ISIS retreats in Syria

The al-Qaeda linked Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, or ISIS, has retreated from Aazaz and other key positions in Northern Aleppo, AFP reports.

Their retreat comes in response to an ultimatum issued by al-Nusra Front earlier this week. Nusra Front, a powerful rival, blames ISIS for the death of Abu Khaled al-Suri, a senior Islamist commander, and threatened to expel ISIS from Syria if it did not appear before an Islamic court.

“ISIS has withdrawn from Aazaz, its most important bastion in Aleppo province, as well as the Minnigh military airport, the Mayer region and the villages of Deir Jamal and Kafin,” said the SThe al-Qaeda linked Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, or ISIS, has retreated from Aazaz and other key positions in Northern Aleppo, AFP reports.

Their retreat comes in response to an ultimatum issued by al-Nusra Front earlier this week. Nusra Front, a powerful rival, blames ISIS for the death of Abu Khaled al-Suri, a senior Islamist commander, and threatened to expel ISIS from Syria if it did not appear before an Islamic court.

“ISIS has withdrawn from Aazaz, its most important bastion in Aleppo province, as well as the Minnigh military airport, the Mayer region and the villages of Deir Jamal and Kafin,” said the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

“ISIS is heading to areas that neighbor Raqa province where it has its main stronghold in the city of Raqa,” Rami Abdel Rahman, the Observatory’s director, told AFP.

A war between Nusra Front and ISIS would greatly hinder both groups’ efforts to defeat Assad’s regime.yrian Observatory for Human Rights.

“ISIS is heading to areas that neighbor Raqa province where it has its main stronghold in the city of Raqa,” Rami Abdel Rahman, the Observatory’s director, told AFP.

A war between Nusra Front and ISIS would greatly hinder both groups’ efforts to defeat Assad’s regime.

Source: Latest News in Hindi

From albawaba News

GCHQ pulled in webcam images of Yahoo users

Britain’s domestic spying agency, the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), has intercepted and stored webcam images from millions of Yahoo users, reports the Guardian.

According to the secret documents revealed by Edward Snowden from NSA and published by the Guardian, GCHQ files dated from 2008 to 2010 explicitly disclose that a program codenamed Optic Nerve piled up still webcam images of Yahoo users in bulk and stored them in databases.

The surveillance agency GCHQ insists that all of its activities are carried out in accordance with UK’s strict legal and policy framework and claims to have triggered this bulk surveillance on Yahoo webcam chat users because “Yahoo webcam is known to be used by GCHQ targets.”

Optic Nerve was one of a series of the agency’s efforts at biometric detection, whether for target recognition or general security.

The documents clearly explained that GCHQ trialed automatic searches based on facial recognition technology, for people resembling the existing GCHQ targets “If you search for similar IDs to your target, you will be able to request automatic comparison of the face in the similar IDs to those in your target’s ID”.

The document estimates that the agency has gathered imagery of more than 1.8 million Yahoo user accounts, including substantial quantities of sexually explicit communications, in just one six-month period in 2008 and up to 11 percent of the Yahoo webcam imagery harvested contains “undesirable nudity”.

“A survey was conducted, taking a single image from each of 323 user ids. 23 (7.1 percent) of those images contained undesirable nudity,” read the document.

Yahoo “reacted furiously” denying prior knowledge of the alleged program and strongly condemned the Optic Nerve program. GCHQ has been mired of “a whole new level of violation of users’ privacy,” by the company claiming no awareness of the image collection.

Source: Hindi News

From techienews.co.uk News

CCEA hikes fixed cost of urea plants by Rs 350/tonne

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on Friday okayed Rs 350/tonne increase in the fixed cost for urea plants in accordance to the Group of Minister's recommendations . 

Fixed cost include salary and wage expenses, contract labour, repair and maintenance, and selling costs. 

Experts say, the fixed cost increase, which has been a long-pending demand of the industry, will not be sufficient to cover the incremental jump in actual costs. As per the proposal, the fixed cost of urea produced by plants which are 30 years old or more by Rs 150 per tonne and for all other plants by Rs 350 a tonne. The minimum fixed cost would be Rs 2,300 per tonne. 

The move is expected to lead to an increase in subsidy by about Rs 900 crore which will have a positive impact on urea players. The CCEA is would also consider a proposal to modify New Investment policy for urea. Rashtriya Chem stock price On February 28, 2014, at 15:15 hrs Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilisers was quoting at Rs 32.40, up Rs 0.30, or 0.93 percent. 

The 52-week high of the share was Rs 50.80 and the 52-week low was Rs 26.00. The company's trailing 12-month (TTM) EPS was at Rs 3.90 per share as per the quarter ended December 2013. The stock's price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio was 8.31. The latest book value of the company is Rs 42.69 per share. At current value, the price-to-book value of the company is 0.76.

Source: Business News India

From MC News

Everyone - from Har Mahadev echo raised pagoda Jaykare

महाशिवरात्रि पर शिवालयों में सुबह से ही भक्तों का तांता लगा रहा। हर-हर महादेव और बम-बम भोले के जयकारे से शिवालय दिनभर गूंजते रहे। चांदनी चौक स्थित गौरी शंकर मंदिर में सुबह की आरती के बाद भक्तों ने भोले बाबा का अभिषेक किया।

कालकाजी मंदिर में मंत्रोच्चारण के साथ बाबा पशुपति नाथ का रुद्राभिषेक किया गया। दूध, दही, गंगाजल, शहद, गन्ने के रस से बाबा को स्नान कराया गया। आक, धतूरा, बेल पत्र, मेहंदी, सफेद पुष्प अर्पित कर श्रृंगार किया गया। शिव स्तुति व हवन के बीच भक्तों ने भक्तों ने बाबा का अभिषेक किया। हनुमान रोड स्थित शिव मंदिर में भी दिनभर भक्तों की कतार लगी रही। उन्होंने भोले भंडारी को बेल, धतूरा और दूध अर्पित किया। भक्तों को फल, खीर और आलू आदि का प्रसाद दिया गया। काल सर्प दोष की पूजा भी हुई।

पुष्प से भरी थालियां लेकर पहुंचे भक्त1केशवपुरम के पारदेश्वर मंदिर से लेकर मंगोलपुरी, सुल्तानपुरी, रोहिणी व जहांगीरपुरी के विभिन्न शिवमंदिरों में भक्तों ने पूजा की। लोग हाथों में पुष्प से भरी थालियां व चंदन-धूप लेकर शिव की आरती करने पहुंचे। इस मौके पर कई मंदिरों में बच्चों के लिए विभिन्न प्रतियोगिताओं का आयोजन भी किया गया।

प्रवचन व भंडारे का आयोजन-उत्तम नगर, ककरौला, मोहन गार्डन, नजफगढ़, जनकपुरी, विकासनगर, विकासपुरी, तिलक नगर, रघुवीर नगर, मीरा बाग, पश्चिम विहार, सागरपुर व पालम स्थित मंदिरों को आकर्षक ढंग से सजाया गया था। जनकपुरी सी-3 स्थित श्री सनातन धर्म मंदिर के पुजारी पं.राम कुमार दूबे ने शिव तत्व पर प्रवचन का आयोजन किया। त्रिलोकीनाथ मंदिर में भी काफी संख्या में भक्तों ने शिव का जलाभिषेक किया।

हरिनगर घंटाघर के पास राष्ट्रीय महिला जनकल्याण सेवा मंच के तत्वावधान में भंडारे का आयोजन किया गया। इस अवसर पर पंडित ध्रुवचंद पाठक, गुरबक्श सिंह, आलोक कपूर, अशप्रीत सिंह, बलजीत कौर सोनिया व सरोज सिंह सहित कई लोग उपस्थित थे।

Source: Spiritual News in Hindi  & Panchang
 

Mahadev been Indradev Jalabhishek

देवों के देव महादेव के महापर्व शिवरात्रि पर न केवल नर नारी बल्कि देवगण भी अर्चना प्रस्तुत करते नजर आए। महाशिवरात्रि पर सुबह से ठहर-ठहर कर बारिश होती रही। ऐसा लगा मानों इंद्रदेव स्वयं महादेव को जलाभिषेक करने को आतुर हों। वहीं मंदिरों और शिवालयों में दिनभर भक्तों का तांता लगा रहा। इस दौरान शिवभक्त अपने आराध्य का अभिषेक करते रहे।

मंदिर परिसरों में दिनभर बोल बम और हर-हर महादेव के जयकारे गूंजते रहे। भक्तों ने दूध व जल से अभिषेक कर शमी, धतूरा, बेलपत्रों से महादेव का श्रृंगार किया। वहीं हजारों भक्तों ने मंदिरों में रातभर जागकर महाशिवरात्रि मनाई। इस दौरान रात भर भक्त भजन कीर्तन व मंत्रोच्चार के जरिए शिव आराधना में लीन रहे। वहीं मंदिरों और शहर की तमाम संस्थाओं की ओर से शिव बरात निकाली गई। बरसात के बीच निकाली गई शिवबरात में भूत, पिचाश और औघड़ों का भेष धरे तमाम बाराती शामिल रहे।

शिवकुटी स्थित शंकर जी की कचहरी, शिव कोटेश्वर महोदव, कमौरी नाथ महादेव, मनकामेश्वर महादेव, तक्षकेश्वर महादेव, ऋणमुक्तेश्वर महादेव, सिविल लाइंस स्थित हनुमत निकेतन में भगवान शिवमंदिर, पंचमुखी महादेव, दशाश्वमेघ महादेव, छतनाग स्थित छतनाग महादेव, झूंसी स्थित गंगोली शिवाला महादेव, करछना स्थित समोगर नाथ महादेव आदि मंदिरों पर दिनभर शिवभक्तों का तांता लगा रहा। माघ मेला प्रशासन पंडाल में विशेष पूजापाठ एवं हवन का आयोजन हुआ।

युवा चौरसिया समाज सेवा समिति की ओर से बजे पान दरीबा शिवमंदिर, नेपाली धर्म समाज की ओर से गंगानगर में, जय शिव सेना लूकरगंज, सत्ती चौरा चढ़ान मालवीय नगर, श्रीश्री भोले बाबा मंदिर समिति बादशाही मंडी, हरिहर आरती समिति, श्रीनारायण आध्यात्मिक ज्योतिषपीठ नर्मदेश्वर महादेव बेनीगंज, शिवशक्ति सेना का अखाड़ा त्रिशूल नंदी दर्शन, शोभायात्र कमौरी महादेव मंदिर सिद्धपीठ भोलेगिरि मंदिर कटघर प्रयाग, श्री निम्बार्क आश्रम रामबाग में शिवरात्रि पर भीड़ रही। सिद्धपीठ मां ललिता देवी मंदिर स्थित ललितेश्वर महादेव का भांग धतूरा एवं पुष्प के आभूषणों से श्रृंगार किया गया। शाम को महामंत्री धीरज नागर, सुमित श्रीवास्तव, पीसी वर्मा, अनुराग चंद्रा, शिवनाथ शर्मा, अशोक मिश्र की देखरेख में भजन एवं भंडारा आयोजित किया। दशाश्वमेघ महादेव, माधवेश्वर महादेव पर शंखनाद और घंटा घडियाल बजाकर संगम को विश्व धरोहर बनाए जाने की कामना की गई। इस मौके पर धर्मराज पांडेय, ध्रुवराज पांडेय, भक्तराज पांडेय, केसी पांडेय, विष्णु दयाल श्रीवास्तव, आशा, अनुपमा, विश्व धरोहर महाअभियान के संयोजक तीर्थराज पांडेय आदि मौजूद रहे।

हर हर महादेव प्राचीन शिवमंदिर मुंडेरा की ओर से सुबह रुद्राभिषेक के बाद शिवबरात निकाली गई। इस मौके पर स्वामी रामभद्र करपात्री बाबा, क्षेत्रीय विधायक पूजा पाल, व्यापार मंडल अध्यक्ष धनंजय सिंह, संयोजक राहुल सिंह आदि मौजूद रहे।1फाफामऊ प्रतिनिधि के अनुसार देवाधिदेव महादेव की आराधना और पूजन को लेकर क्षेत्र के शिवालयों में सुबह से ही भक्तों की भीड़ जुटी रही। यह क्त्रम देर शाम तक चलता रहा। बारिश में भीगते हुए शिवालयों तक जाना पड़ा। मगर आस्था के आगे बारिश का लोगों पर कोई प्रभाव नहीं पड़ा। क्षेत्र के मलाकहरहर, शिवपुर, मोरहूं, गद्दोपुर, गोहरी, फाफामऊ गांव, शांतिपुरम कालोनी आदि स्थानों पर मौजूद शिवालयों में शिव शंकर के जयकारे लगाने के साथ शिवलिंग पर जलाभिषेक भी किए गए।1पड़िला महादेव में शुरू हुआ मेला1पांडेश्वर नाथ धाम पड़िला महादेव में गुरुवार भोर से ही चहल पहल रही। बरसात के बीच स्थानीय और आस-पास जिलों के हजारों की संख्या में भक्त जलाभिषेक करने पहुंचे।

इस दौरान हजारों लोगों ने झंडा, पताका और घंटा आदि का निशान भी चढ़ाया। देर शाम को महाआरती हुई और छप्पन भोग का प्रसाद चढ़ाया गया। इस मौके पर भजन कीर्तन आयोजित हुआ। इसमें कृष्ण कुमार गिरि, देवेंद्र गिरि, बिंदु गुप्ता, दीप नारायण, डॉ. धर्मराज यादव, शिवचंद्र यादव, जिलेदार शुक्ला, वरिष्ठ नारायण शुक्ला, सुजीत समेत सैकड़ों लोग मौजूद रहे। गुरुवार को व्यवस्था का जायजा लेने के लिए सांसद कपिलमुनि करवरिया पहुंचे।..

Source: Spiritual News in Hindi  & Hindi Panchang

Asia Cup Live Scores Match 4: India get to 37/1 vs Sri Lanka

Put in to bat first after losing the toss, India lost opener Rohit Sharma cheaply again and reached 37 for the loss of one wicket after 10 overs in the fourth match of the 2014 Asia Cup against Sri Lanka in Fatullah on Friday.

Openers Shikhar Dhawan (20*) and Sharma (13) struggled a bit at the onset with the variable bounce in the pitch. Dhawan showed some intent in the fifth over, hitting Lasith Malinga for back to back fours towards the end of the over.

Sri Lanka captain Angelo Mathews introduced spin in the sixth over of the match with Sachithra Senanayake. He proved slightly more expensive than seamers Malinga and Mathews, who opened the bowling, but did get the team the breakthrough.

Sharma had stepped down the pitch quite a bit but missed the line of the Senanayake delivery which hit him on the pads. Though he felt that was reason to give him the benefit of the doubt, the umpire thought it was sure enough to give him LBW.

Mathews went off the field in the ninth over, letting Thisara Perera finish the over. What exactly the problem was remained unknown.

Earlier, defending his choice to bowl first, Mathews said: "The wicket looks pretty slow today so we want to bowl first. We have three spinners today - Ajantha Mendis comes in for Lakmal. We are comfortable with an extra spinner and the dew factor will come in later on so we thought of bowling first."

After the toss, Indian captain Virat Kohli said, "We would have liked to bowl first too, but we have a strong batting line-up to chase. We have brought in Stuart Binny for Varun Aaron. We saw yesterday how the Afghanistan medium-fast bowlers were bowling well and stump to stump so we thought of bringing in a medium-pacer."

Sri Lanka brought in an extra spinner, Ajantha Mendis, in place of seamer Suranga Lakmal. India also made one change, dropping fast bowler Varun Aaron to play all-rounder Stuart Binny.

Source: Cricket News

From HT News

Karnataka nail clueless Andhra

From the moment Abhimanyu Mithun dismissed B Prashanth in the 10th ball of the morning, Karnataka never allowed Andhra any foothold for the rest of the match. The visitors were bowled out for an inadequate 97 after they were asked to bat first, and Karnataka overhauled the target in 23.4 overs losing four wickets with Robin Uthappa making a fifty (54, 69b, 7x4, 1x6).

That pace bowlers took nine wickets on a pitch that sported a green tinge could give the picture of hostile, limb-threatening spells. But Karnataka’s effort with the ball on the day was based more on brain than brawn. The frontline pace troika of skipper R Vinay Kumar, Mithun and Ronit More exploited the conditions to the hilt, finding just enough movement off the track to trouble the Andhra batsmen, who just didn’t seem to have the wherewithal to survive such quality pace attack.

Vinay was his usual self, teasing batsmen with his movement and altering the length ever so cleverly. More could surprise you with his pace as MUB Sriram found out the hard way, losing his woodwork to a delivery that jagged back a bit. Mithun, on the other hand, was a tad expensive as at times he drifted on to the pads of batsmen.

Opener Srikar Bharat, top-scorer for Andhra with 25 runs, deposited one such delivery over the square leg fence for a six before falling to the guiles of Vinay.

But there were also occasions when Mithun procured good amount of bounce and movement, keeping the batsmen on their toes.

The success of Karnataka’s pace machine was expected but Manish Pandey offered the surprise element of the day, plucking three wickets in a five-over spell. The dibbly-dobblies of Pandey, though often on target, accounted for D Sivakumar, D Swaroop Kumar and T Achutha Rao, ensuring that there would not be any fightback from the middle and late order.

The excellent effort by Karnataka bowlers meant that Andhra were bundled out nearly an hour before lunch, and Karnataka reached 59 for no loss in 11 overs when lunch was called for. Uthappa was in the forefront of their charge, taking on Andhra bowlers with his characteristic gusto. At 81 for no loss in the 18th over, Karnataka had a bright chance to register a 10-wicket win, but they lost three wickets on the same score.

KL Rahul, Uthappa and Pandey went back to the hut in the space of nine balls and later the home side also lost Ganesh Satish on 95. That slight stuttering apart the entire day belonged to Karnataka and, perhaps, that passage of play would help them to come with a better top-order effort when they take on Hyderabad on Friday.

TN, Hyderabad win

The other two matches of the day too were low-scoring affairs in which Tamil Nadu beat Goa by seven wickets and Hyderabad defeated Kerala by nine wickets.

Source: Sports News

From deccanherald News

Movie review: Shaadi Ke Side Effects is no fun

Vidya Balan and Farhan Akhtar, two of our most talented actors, sync up as a married couple in Shaadi Ke Side Effects. Their talent and charm should have been a laugh riot but the movie quite doesn't work.

Debutant director Saket Chowdhary falls notches short of making a total fun riot. The movie - a sequel to much-appreciated Pyaar Ke Side Effects - has it's high points and the actors (Vidya, Farhan, Vir Das, Ram Kapoor and Ila Arun) do impress with their performances. However, the punches and the desperate effort to fuse comedy and philosophy fall flat.

Plot:
Sid (Farhan Akhtar) and Trisha (Vidya Balan) deal with each other's fantasies and nature, while desperately trying to cope with the pressure of being new parents.

The film is a comic take on the changes that a child brings to the life of a married couple--together and as individuals.

The performances are impressive. Here, Farhan takes the lead but Vidya, Vir Das (Farhan's friend) and Ila Arun (their babysitter) show immense talent in the spaces provided for them.

Farhan, with a perfect comic timing and an amazing expertise in cracking jokes with a flat face, shines with his own talent.

In some of the emotionally-intense scenes, especially in the second half of the movie. Vidya's skills leave you spellbound.  She also plays the nagging, irritating wife to the hilt. Interestingly, she also turns into this woman who wants to forgive the husband, only if he would have done the same, and aces the act completely.

Vir Das perfects the cool dude personna while Ila Arun is her charming best as a loving and self-respecting caretaker. Ram Kapoor plays Vidya's brother-in-law in his own style which is pure fun.

Though the film largely uses done-to-death husband-wife jokes, there are a few high points. Sample these:

After having a scary dream that his child has the face of his mom-in-law, Farhan discusses his apprehensions with his friends. One of his friends says, "Saas ke shawal ke bacche! Sai hai daily thappad maaro. (Having kids with you mom-in-law's face would be awesome, you can daily slap them in the face!)"

Source: Hindi Movie Reviews & Box Office Report

From HT News

Arjun, Alia's crackling chemistry rocks 2 States trailer

Boy meets girl. They fall in love. They want to marry. But parents have a problem.

While this theme has been remixed and recycled in Bollywood forever, Alia Bhatt and Arjun Kapoor's 2 States trailer, manages to look fresh and engaging, thanks to the lead pair's palpable chemistry.

Ananya Swaminathan (Alia Bhatt) is a south Indian from a 'shuddh Brahmin' household, and Arjun Kapoor is a 'typical' Punjabi. They fall in love and decide to meet each other's parents. And the hell breaks loose.

When Arjun asks his mother (Amrita Singh) to talk to Alia's mother (Revathy), this is what she says - "Kis bhaasha mein baat karoon, mujhe madrasi nahi aati."

In another instance, Revathy calls Amrita 'typical Punjabi, uncultured people'.

The film is based on Chetan Bhagat's semi-autobiographical novel 2 States.

Source: Entertainment News

From HT News

Karan Johar denies signing Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh for 'Shuddhi'

Filmmaker Karan Johar has denied reports of signing Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh for his most talked about project 'Shuddhi'.

The film initially had Hrithik Roshan and Kareena Kapoor Khan in the lead, but later both of them walked out of the project.

There were reports that Ranveer and Deepika might replace Hrithik and Kareena in 'Shuddhi'.

When asked if Ranveer and Deepika would be doing 'Shuddhi', Karan said, "No they are not finalised." He refused to divulge any further details.

A few days back Karan had announced that 'Shuddhi' will release in 2015 and the star cast will be finalised soon.

The film got postponed due to Hrithik's health. But, later the actor surprised everyone by saying he won't be doing 'Shuddhi'. Kareena too bowed out of the project since it was getting delayed.

Source: Bollywood News

From DNA News

Pyongyang tests short-range missiles

North Korea fired four suspected short-range missiles into its eastern waters on Thursday, South Korean defence officials said, in an apparent effort to protest ongoing US-South Korean military exercises that Pyongyang calls a rehearsal for invasion.

The launches, however, weren't expected to raise tension as North Korean routinely tests short-range missiles and it has recently sought better ties with South Korea in what outside analysts say is an attempt to win badly-needed foreign investment and aid. The rival Koreas this month held their first reunions of Korean War-divided families in more than three years.

The projectiles that landed off the North's eastern coast were believed to be short-range missiles with a range of more than 200km. The South Korean defence ministry officials who discussed the launches spoke anonymously, citing ministry rules.

The officials said they were trying to learn exactly what North Korea launched and that South Korea has bolstered its monitoring on North Korea.

Yonhap news agency, citing an unidentified military official, reported the North Korean projectiles were suspected to be ballistic Scud missiles or an upgraded version of its newly developed surface-to-ship KN-02 missiles.

In Washington, State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said the US was closely monitoring the situation and urged North Korea to exercise restraint and take steps to improve relations with its neighbours.

Kim Yong-hyun, a professor of North Korea studies at Seoul's Dongguk University, said the launches won't be a prelude to provocation. He said the North appears to have intended to protest the South Korean-US military drills that began on Monday or to grab international attention as there has been little progress over a push to resume disarmament-for-aid negotiations.

Yang Moo-jin, a professor at the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul, said the North also carried out such launches to examine its weapons.

Last year, North Korea furiously reacted to the same South Korean-US military drills by issuing a torrent of fiery rhetoric and threats to launch nuclear missiles against Seoul and Washington. Last year's drills came after North Korea conducted its third nuclear test. The US took the unusual step of sending nuclear-capable bombers in a show of its resolve to protect its ally...

Source: Latest News in Hindi 

From iol.co.za News

US Vice President Joe Biden calls Ukraine PM Arseny Yatseniuk, pledges support

US Vice President Joe Biden on Thursday welcomed the formation of a new government in Ukraine in a phone call with Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseny Yatseniuk and pledged US support for reforms, the White House said.

"The vice president reassured the prime minister that the United States will offer its full support as Ukraine undertakes the reforms necessary to return to economic health, pursue reconciliation, uphold its international obligations, and seek open and constructive relationships with all its neighbors," the White House said.

Source: Hindi News

From DNA News

Thai minister rejects proposal for talks from protest leader

A senior Thai minister rejected a proposal for talks from the leader of an anti-government protest movement on Friday as demonstrators rallied at ministries to put pressure on Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to step down.

Protest leader Suthep Thaugsuban had suggested that he and Yingluck should hold a televised debate.

"Yingluck is the legitimate leader of the country and Suthep is a man with warrants for his arrest who heads an illegal movement. The prime minister should not talk to Suthep," said Labour Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung, who oversees a state of emergency imposed last month.

"Suthep is only proposing negotiations, even though he dismissed them before, because protest numbers are dwindling."

The protesters have blocked big intersections in the capital, Bangkok, since mid-January and forced many ministries to close as part of a four-month campaign to push out Yingluck and eradicate the political influence of her brother, ex-premier Thaksin Shinawatra, seen as the real power in Thailand.

Violence is on the increase, with almost daily gun and grenade attacks around protest sites by unidentified people, and 23 people have been killed since November.

Thailand's powerful army chief, asked by reporters on Friday whether the violence would trigger a military coup, remained noncommittal and expressed exasperation at the same question being put to him all the time.

"We must not discuss this every day," he said. "I can't promise whether there will be a coup or not."

Protest leader Suthep's debate offer on Thursday came after weeks of refusing to talk.

However, in a speech to supporters later, he showed his more combative side, blaming Yingluck for weekend attacks on protesters in which five people were killed, including four children.

"You have murdered four young, innocent children, Yingluck," he said, challenging her supporters in the rural north and northeast of the country to a fight in the capital...

Source: News in Hindi

From reuters News

SOMALIA: PM condemns today’s car bomb in Mogadishu

Mogadishu (RBC) Prime Minister Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed has condemned today’s car bomb attack at a restaurant near the headquarters of Somalia Intelligence Agency that killed at least 11 people including three government security officers, RB Radio reports.

In a statement released later today, the Prime Minister sent his condolences to the victims and their families of those killed in today’s car bomb attack on a tea shop in the Abdiasis district of Mogadishu.

The Prime Minister, said: “I send my personal condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in today’s bombing of a tea shop in Abdiasis district, and wish those injured a quick and full recovery.

“Today’s indiscriminate attack on a tea shop filled with civilians going about their lives has only resulted in the further tragic loss of innocent Somali lives. Al-Shabaab’s agenda is a betrayal of Islam and of the peaceful Somali communities who want to see a new secure, stable and united Somalia.

“My government has set out steps in recent days aimed at eliminating the threat of terrorism in our country. This government together with the people of Somalia and the international community will remain steadfast and work hand in hand in the fight against terrorism, ensuring safety and security on our streets.”

Source: Latest News in Hindi

From raxanreeb News

Rajiv Gandhi assassination case: Supreme Court restrains Tamil Nadu govt from releasing 4 convicts

After staying release of three convicts in the Rajiv Gandhi assassination case, the Supreme Court today restrained the Tamil Nadu government from letting out four more convicts in the case.

A bench headed by Chief Justice P Sathasivam directed the state government to maintain status quo and said it will hear on March 6 the Centre's plea against the state government's decision to release all seven prisoners undergoing life imprisonment.

Opposing the Centre's plea, the Tamil Nadu government said the petition is not maintainable as the Union government cannot file a writ in the case.

The state also submitted that the Centre has no locus in the matter.

It asked as to why the Centre rushed to the apex court instead of replying to the state government's letter seeking the stand of the Union government on the release of the prisoners.

"Is the Centre rushing or you are rushing?," the bench questioned the state government and made it clear that it will first consider the maintainability of the Centre's petition before going into its merits.

"You take it from us that we would consider the maintainability issue first," it said, adding, "We would solve the problem amicably."

The bench said that every state must be aware about the procedure to be followed for the release of prisoners.

The apex court had on February 20 stayed the release of three convicts--Murugan, Santhan and Arivu-- whose death sentence was commuted to life term by it on February 18 in the case, saying there had been procedural lapses on the part of the state government on the decision to release them.

Thereafter, the Centre had moved the plea seeking a stay on the release of convicts Nalini, Robert Pious, Jayakumar and Ravichandran...

Source: Latest News in Hindi

From DNA News

Narendra Modi woos traders, advocates need to boost online trade

Pitching the need for a vision for traders, BJP's Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi on Thursday said, "We will take their suggestions for our manifesto." "Our image is that of a trader's party. This image obviously is made because we work for traders," he said.

Applauding traders for their risk taking ability, Modi said, "A true quality of a great trader is taking risks. I trust my country's traders, they have the will to succeed."

At the All India Traders Convention, Modi advocated the requirement to boost online trade. "Who goes to stores to buy books anymore? Everyone goes online. We have to boost online trade not cut it," he said. "We don't have to be scared of the global challenges in trade. Let us take them as opportunities. If they go 10 steps ahead lets go 15," he added.

Source: Latest Hindi News

From ET News

Ukraine Warns Russian Fleet Against "Military Aggression"

Ukraine's acting president has warned the Russian navy in Crimea not to leave its post, after gunmen seized government buildings in the regional capital.

Oleksandr Turchnyov said Thursday that any movement of Russian troops will be considered "military aggression." Russia's Black Sea fleet is based in the Crimean city of Sevastpol.

Earlier Thursday, Ukraine's acting interior minister Arsen Avakov said police are on high alert after the local government and legislature buildings were seized in the capital, Simferopol, by armed men in the pro-Russia region.

Reports say the the Russian flag was raised over the buildings, and Avakov said the occupied buildings have been sealed off by police.

The area has been the scene of confrontations between supporters of Ukraine's new government and pro-Russia activists. The region is mainly made up of Russian speakers who support Moscow but is also home to minority Muslim Tatars who are generally anti-Russia.

On Wednesday, Ukrainian interim leaders named popular opposition figure Arseniy Yatsenyuk as the country's new prime minister. Parliament is expected to consider his name later Thursday.


Yatsenyuk is a pro-Western former foreign minister and economy minister. One of his first major jobs would be preventing the Ukrainian economy from collapse.

The White House says it strongly supports Ukrainian leaders as they work to form a multiparty government to represent all Ukrainians. It calls a broad-based government committed to reconciliation the necessary foundation for international aid.

Secretary of State John Kerry says the U.S. is considering $1 billion in loan guarantees for Ukraine.

Kerry also warned Russia Wednesday that it would be a "grave mistake" to intervene militarily in Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered an urgent military drill in areas that include the region near the Ukrainian border.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu says the drill will check "readiness to deal with crisis situations that threaten the nation's military security."

The Kremlin did not superficially mention Ukraine. It has said it would not interfere in Ukraine's internal affairs. Moscow is a strong supporter of ousted Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych.

Ukraine is split between the pro-European west and the pro-Russian east and south.

Anti-government demonstrations erupted in Ukraine when Mr. Yanukovych backed out of a European Union trade deal in favor of economic aid from Russia. The violence escalated last week, leaving nearly 100 people dead.

Ukraine's interim leaders have dissolved an elite security force accused of carrying out some of those deadly attacks on protesters.

Source: Latest News in Hindi

From VA News

Read: The 10 mishaps during Admiral DK Joshi's tenure

Admiral DK Joshi's resignation as the Chief of Naval Staff would be the first time in the last 15 years that a Naval chief has had to leave office in controversial circumstances after Admiral Vishnu Bhagwat was sacked by the NDA Government in 1998 when George Fernandes was the Defence Minister.

Following is a list of accidents that have taken place involving ships and submarines of the Indian Navy since August 2013:

INS Sindhurakshak (August 2013) - Blasts ripped through the torpedo compartment of the INS Sindhurakshak while it was berthed at the naval dockyard off the Mumbai coast. Fifteen sailors and three officers were killed. The vessel then submerged under three metres of water. Divers could not even approach the submarine for two to three hours due to the extreme heat that it was generating.

INS Viraat (September 2013) - Fire broke out near the officer's mess of the aircraft carrier off the coast of Mumbai in September last year.

INS Konkan (December 2013) - A mine sweeper under the Eastern Naval Command, the Konkan caught fire at the naval dockyard at Visakhapatnam while undergoing repairs. The fire engulfed much of the ship's interior before it was put off.

INS Talwar (December 2013) - A fishing trawler sank after colliding with the navy's frontline frigate INS Talwar near Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra, injuring four of the 27 people onboard the trawler. The fishing trawler was operating without lights.

INS Tarkash (December 2013) - A stealth frigate which conducted several overseas missions, INS Tarkash suffered damage to its hull when it hit the jetty while docking at the Mumbai naval base.

Source: News in Hindi

From IBN News

With Moto X, Motorola’s full return to India is just a few weeks away

A few years back, Motorola was one of the most visible, and popular, phone brands in India. But in 2012, Motorola Mobility pulled out of this market, even though it was still selling phones here.

Things changed earlier this month when the company, now owned by Google,  tied up e-commerce giant Flipkart to launch its budget smartphone Moto G in India. With a very competitive price of Rs 12,499, the phone was an instant hit in the country and was sold out within days.

That success seems to have spurred Motorola to bring its Moto X to the market. In a twitter conversation as part of the Mobile World Congress, the company confirmed that Moto X is headed for India and Australia in the coming weeks.

Source: Hindi News

From indianexpress News

Horror in Nigeria as pupils burn to death in boarding school attack by Boko Haram

   

A terror attack in Nigeria killed 29 boys with some burning to death, officials say.

Gunmen from Islamist group Boko Haram stormed a boarding school in the north-east of the country, police and the military confirmed.

Police commissioner Sanusi Rufai said the attack at the college in Buni Yadi saw some of the students’ bodies burned to ashes.

Boko Haram are fighting for an Islamic state in northern Nigeria. A similar attack in June left 22 students dead.

Violence is increasing focusing on civilians – more than 200 people were killed in two attacks last week, one in which militants razed a whole village and shot panicked residents as they tried to flee.

Nigeria’s president Goodluck Jonathan launched an offensive against insurgents in May, but it has failed to stop attacks on civilians. It came after he declared a state of emergency in three north-eastern states.

But Jonathan has defended the action, saying the military has had some successes against Boko Haram. He also said Nigeria was working with the Cameroon authorities to try to prevent the militants from mounting attacks in Nigeria and then fleeing over the border.

The military shut the northern part of the border with Cameroon on the weekend. The insurgents mostly occupy the remote, hilly Gwoza area bordering Cameroon, from where they attack civilians they accuse of being pro-government.

Source: News in Hindi

From Euronews News

Nighttime Gunfire Becomes New Norm in Downtown Bangkok

Shots fired by unknown gunmen on Wednesday rattled parts of the Thai capital, where anti-government protesters have set up camp for weeks, as small but occasionally deadly bombs and gunfire fast become the new norm in the city.

No one was wounded in the shootings in the central commercial area of Bangkok, although five people were killed in weekend violence in the city and the eastern province of Trat, four of them young children.

National security chief Paradorn Pattanathabutr said there had been no reported deaths or injuries in the incidents in the early hours of Wednesday.

“As for the perpetrators, we still don't know who they are,” he said. “Recently we have been seeing more incidents like this happening more frequently... It is noticeable that there are incidents like this every day.”

The protesters, whose disruption of a general election this month left polarized Thailand in political paralysis, want to topple Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra and erase the influence of her brother, ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra, seen by many as the real power in the country.

Occasional contact between the two sides, amid calls for an end to the violence, has so far led to nothing.

Bluesky TV, the protesters' station, showed demonstrators pushing against the wrought iron gates of the national police headquarters in Bangkok, demanding the proper investigation of more than 20 deaths since the beginning of the protests.
     
They did not get into the compound and dispersed in the early afternoon.

The protesters have vilified the police as lackeys of Thaksin, a former police officer who went on to build a telecoms empire.

“We want the police to do their job honestly and straightforwardly,” said Anchalee Paireerak, a protest leader and former television news anchor. “We urge them to stop serving the Thaksin regime and join our movement.”
     
The protesters want to set up an unelected “people's council” of the good and worthy to oversee vaguely defined political reforms, including a restructuring of the police force, before new elections are held.

Economic costs

Charges of negligence are to be brought against Yingluck on Thursday by Thailand's anti-corruption agency relating to a rice subsidy scheme that paid farmers above-market prices and has proved financially ruinous.
     
Yingluck is in the northern city of Chiang Mai - her family's home town - and is unlikely to attend the hearing in person.

Some Yingluck supporters have said they would camp outside the agency's offices in Bangkok overnight to stop officials getting into work on Thursday.

The crisis flared up in November and the protesters have blocked several main intersections in the capital since mid-January. Although their numbers have dwindled, they are still managing to disrupt government business, forcing some agencies or ministries to close.

This has taken a toll on confidence and the economy.

Official figures on Tuesday showed a slump in trade in January.

Imports fell 15.5 percent from a year earlier, the biggest tumble since October 2009. Imports of computers and parts were down 19 percent, vehicle parts were off 31.8 percent and consumer goods down 5.3 percent. Exports dropped 2 percent.

A boom in the housing market may be coming to an end. The number of new housing units hit a record high in 2013 but developers are braced for a contraction this year because of the political crisis.

Land & Houses, the country's largest home builder, saw a 50 percent fall in December presales - the value of bookings for property units - and Kasikornbank  said its housing loans were 50 percent below target in January.

Source: News in Hindi

From VA News

Obama Warns Karzai on Post-2014 Troop Presence

President Obama called Afghan President Karzai on Tuesday to reiterate that there will be no U.S. troop presence on the ground in Afghanistan unless the Afghan government signs a bilateral security agreement.

Before they spoke on the phone Tuesday, Obama and Karzai were not known to have spoken for months.

The Afghan leader has refused to sign the Bilateral Security Agreement that the United States and NATO insist is necessary to plan for a post-2014 troop presence to support counter-terrorism and training of Afghan forces.

White House Press Secretary Jay Carney expressed growing concerns on Tuesday.

"The longer we go without a BSA, and we have been making this clear, the more challenging it will be to plan and to execute any U.S. mission," said Carney, adding  "Furthermore, the longer we go without a signed BSA, the more likely it will be that any post-2014 mission will be smaller in scale and ambition."

Asked later whether he could state that without signing of the agreement there will be no troops on the ground in Afghanistan beyond December 31, Carney said "absolutely."

Obama has directed the Pentagon to proceed with contingency planning to ensure, as a Defense Department statement said, that plans are in place to accomplish an orderly withdrawal by the end of the year.

Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel called this a prudent step, given that Karzai has demonstrated it is unlikely he will sign the security accord, which would provide U.S. military personnel with what officials call "critical protections and authorities after 2014."

Hagel said the U.S. military will be moving people and equipment out of the Afghan war theater, but its force posture will provide "various options for U.S. and NATO political leaders."

Planning will continue, he added, for U.S. participation in a NATO-led mission focused on training, advising and assisting Afghan security forces, and a narrowly focused counterterrorism mission.

Hagel attends a meeting in Brussels this week of NATO and defense ministers of the International Security Force in Afghanistan.

In his call with Karzai, Obama made clear, according to Carney, that the U.S. is open to the signing of a security agreement later in the year.

Carney also was asked if the White House has reason to believe that any of the presidential candidates in Afghanistan would sign the accord.

" I don't think we would, given the experience we've had, predict with any great certainty what might happen. I would note that those who cover these issues have reported that candidates have suggested they support it.  But we will obviously wait to see what happens," he said.

Carney emphasized again that the U.S.-NATO policy goal has always depended on signing the accord, and the longer it takes the more likely a "zero option" becomes and the smaller any mission would be beyond 2014.

Source: Latest News in Hindi

From Voanews News

India to block U.S. trade probes, ready for fight at WTO

India has decided to block investigations by the United States into its trade policies and patent laws and prepare for a battle at the World Trade Organization (WTO), a move that could escalate already-strained tension between the two countries.

New Delhi is furious about a threat of trade sanctions made by the U.S. Trade Representative's (USTR) office over its protection of intellectual property rights (IPR), preference for domestic producers and non-trade barriers.

Ahead of a general election, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's government does not want to be seen as bowing to U.S. pressure, amid lingering tension over the recent arrest and strip search of a female diplomat in New York suspected of visa fraud.

On Wednesday, the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) - which represents about 50 U.S. business groups - asked the USTR to designate India a Priority Foreign Country in its 2014 report.

"This designation appropriately would rank India among the very worst violators of intellectual property rights and establish a process leading to concrete solutions," NAM said in a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman.

The USTR is holding public hearings for its annual report due in April. The report will provide details on nations denying protection of IP rights or fair market access to U.S. firms.

India is widely perceived in Washington as a serial trade offender, with U.S. firms unhappy about imports of everything from shrimp to steel pipes they say threaten jobs, as well as a lack of fair access to the Indian market for its goods.

WTO CASES

This month, Washington said it was filing its second case at the WTO over domestic content requirements in India's solar programme, which aims to ease energy shortages in Asia's third-largest economy.

There are 14 past or current WTO cases between India and the United States, whose bilateral trade in goods measured $63.7 billion last year, not including the latest case.

India has since hardened its stance, instructing officials not to entertain any request from the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) - a quasi-judicial federal agency - to examine its trade practices.

India's trade ministry has also "advised" U.S Deputy Trade Representative Wendy Cutler to put off a visit to India that had been scheduled for late March due to the parliamentary election due in April or May, a senior official told Reuters.

The official said India had asked for alternative dates for the visit, possibly after the elections, adding that the decision was not linked with the trade tension.

A spokeswoman for the USTR said officials from both governments continued to engage in constructive discussions on trade and investment issues and to seek out opportunities for further economic collaboration.

WORST OFFENDERS

The USTR listed in a February 12 report markets in Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad as being among the worst offenders globally for the sale of pirated software and counterfeit goods.

A visit by the USITC delegation to meet officials from the Indian commerce, industry, health, telecom and finance ministries has also been put on hold.

A USITC spokeswoman confirmed the delay, saying they were looking for "other windows" for a visit, but declined to comment on the reasons for the delay.

Newly appointed Trade Secretary Rajeev Kher, who pushed India's stand on food security issues at a WTO meeting in Bali, as chief WTO negotiator, has told his officials to tackle bilateral trade disputes preferably through multi-lateral forums.

India has also urged President Barack Obama's administration not to fall prey to special interest groups and consider trade issues in the context of the wider economic and strategic relationship between the two countries.

Officials say any move towards putting India on a priority foreign countries list would hurt bilateral relations.

"There are clear stresses in the India-US trade, economic relations," said another government official who, like others who spoke to Reuters, declined to be identified due to the sensitivity of the matter.

"If it is a strategic relationship, they should be looking at the larger picture."

Source: Latest News in Hindi

Form Reuters News

Rupee down 8 paise against dollar in early trade

Breaking a three-day winning run, the rupee today lost 8 paise to 62.02 against the US dollar in early trade on the Interbank Foreign Exchange market due to appreciation of the US currency overseas.

Forex dealers said apart from month-end demand for the American currency from importers, dollar gaining against other currencies overseas also put pressure on the local unit, but a higher opening in the domestic equity market capped the fall.

The domestic currency had gained 13 paise to close at one-week high of 61.97 against the dollar yesterday amid positive stock markets and signs of continued capital inflows.

Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex was up 41.18 points, or 0.20 per cent, to 20,893.65 in early trade today.

Source: News in Hindi

From ET News

Sensex, Nifty strike over 4-1/2 week high

 A bout of volatility was witnessed in morning trade as the key benchmark indices trimmed gains after hitting fresh intraday high. The barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, and the 50-unit CNX Nifty, both hit their highest level in over 4-1/2 weeks. The S&P BSE Sensex was up 59.52 points or 0.29%, off 27.28 points from the day's high and up 51.97 points from the day's low. The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was positive.

Index heavyweight and cigarette major ITC edged higher. Reliance Industries was marginally higher in volatile trade after the company in a press release on Tuesday, 25 February 2014 said it strongly denies all allegations made by Aam Admi Party (AAP) against RIL and Mr. Mukesh Ambani in their public meeting recently. State Bank of India (SBI) extended initial gain after the state-run bank said after market hours on Tuesday, 25 February 2014 that a meeting of the board of directors of the bank will be held on 3 March 2014 to consider declaration of interim dividend for the financial year ending 31 March 2014. Capital goods stocks edged higher on renewed buying. Bharat Heavy Electricals (Bhel) rose on reports that the country's largest insurer, Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), may reportedly pick up 5% stake in state-run power equipment maker in a block deal. Sanofi India rose after declaring strong Q4 result after market hours on Tuesday, 25 February 2014.

Key benchmark indices trimmed initial gains triggered by mostly higher Asian stocks. A bout of volatility was witnessed in morning trade as the key benchmark indices trimmed gains after hitting fresh intraday high. The barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, and the 50-unit CNX Nifty, both hit their highest level in over 4-1/2 weeks.

Volatility may remain high today, 26 February 2014, as traders roll over positions in the futures and options (F&O) segment from the near-month February 2014 series to March 2014 series. The near month February 2014 F&O contracts expire today, 26 February 2014.

Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) bought shares worth a net Rs 423.41 crore on Tuesday, 25 February 2014, as per provisional data from the stock exchanges.

At 10:15 IST, the S&P BSE Sensex was up 59.52 points or 0.29% to 20,911.99. The index gained 86.80 points at the day's high of 20,939.27 in morning trade, its highest level since 24 January 2014. The index rose 7.55 points at the day's low of 20,860.02 in early trade.

The CNX Nifty was up 13.65 points or 0.22% to 6,213.70. The index hit a high of 6,222.90 in intraday trade, its highest level since 24 January 2014. The index hit a low of 6,202.10 in intraday trade.

The market breadth, indicating the overall health of the market, was positive. On BSE, 966 shares gained and 691 shares fell. A total of 77 shares were unchanged.

The BSE Mid-Cap index rose 7.70 points or 0.12% to 6,470.02, underperforming the Sensex. The BSE Small-Cap index rose 25.14 points or 0.39% to 6,446.84, outperforming the Sensex.

The total turnover on BSE amounted to Rs 402 crore by 10:20 IST compared to Rs 122 crore by 09:25 IST.

Among the 30-share Sensex pack, 21 stocks gained and rest of them declined.

Sesa Sterlite (down 2.09%), Coal India (down 1.5%) and ONGC (down 0.96%) edged lower from the Sensex pack.

Index heavyweight and cigarette major ITC rose 0.96% to Rs 325. The stock hit high of Rs 325.30 and low of Rs 322.40 so far during the day.

Reliance Industries (RIL) rose 0.06% to Rs 811 in volatile trade. The stock hit high of Rs 813.90 and low of Rs 809.50 so far during the day. RIL in a press release on Tuesday, 25 February 2014 said it strongly denies all allegations made by Aam Admi Party (AAP) against RIL and Mr. Mukesh Ambani in their public meeting recently.

As stated earlier it is being reiterated that neither RIL nor Mr. Mukesh Ambani have or had any illegitimate accounts anywhere in the world. RIL has business interests in several countries with turnover of thousands of crores in Rupees. As a part of their normal business, these international subsidiaries of RIL deal with several global banks. These accounts are fully compliant with all regulations and are disclosed in their appropriate jurisdictions and in India. The continued tirade of baseless allegations being made by AAP against us appears to be instigated by vested interests, RIL said.

State Bank of India (SBI) rose 1.08%, with the stock extending initial gain. The state-run bank said after market hours on Tuesday, 25 February 2014 that a meeting of the board of directors of the bank will be held on 3 March 2014, inter alia, to consider, and if thought fit, declare interim dividend for the financial year ending 31 March 2014.

Capital goods stocks edged higher on renewed buying. ABB India (up 7.23%), BEML (up 0.54%), Crompton Greaves (up 0.19%), L&T (up 0.43%), Siemens (up 4.29%) and Thermax (up 1.23%) gained.

Bharat Heavy Electricals (Bhel) rose 1.06%. The country's largest insurer, Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), may reportedly pick up 5% stake in state-run power equipment maker Bhel in a block deal. According to a media report, the proposal initiated by the heavy industries & public enterprises ministry is now being processed by the disinvestment and financial services department of the finance ministry.

Sanofi India rose 1.73% after net profit surged 106.92% to Rs 92.70 crore on 15.49% increase in total income from operations to Rs 488.30 crore in Q4 December 2013 over Q4 December 2012. The company announced the results after market hours on Tuesday, 25 February 2014.

Sanofi India's net profit jumped 50.08% to Rs 265.20 crore on 14.99% increase in total income from operations to Rs 1808.90 crore in the year ended December 2013 over the year ended December 2012.

The stock market remains closed tomorrow, 27 February 2014, on account of Mahashivratri.

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) on Tuesday, 25 February 2014 proposed in a discussion paper that appointment of an agency to monitor the utilization of funds raised through an initial public offering (IPO) should be made mandatory. Currently, such an appointment is compulsory only if the public issue size exceeds Rs 500 crore. Sebi said the move is aimed at strengthening the monitoring of utilization of all the equity capital raised by selling shares to the public.

In its latest discussion paper, Sebi proposed that the appointed agency will be required to submit its report to the issuer every quarter till the full utilization of the public issue proceeds, as compared to the requirement of submission of such reports on a half-yearly basis at present. Also, such reports will be required to be put out on the stock exchanges' website to keep investors informed.

To curb misuse of money raised through a public issue, Sebi proposed to make it mandatory for the monitoring agency to assign grades to the issuer.

In order to ensure that the monitoring process is carried out effectively, Sebi proposed that a committee of board of directors of the company has to be constituted to oversee the monitoring of utilization of issue proceeds before opening of the public issue. This sub-committee will facilitate monitoring of issue proceeds by monitoring agency. A majority of the members of such a sub-committee will have to be independent directors, Sebi suggested.

Sebi has sought public comments on the proposals till 25 March 2014.

The Reserve Bank of India next undertakes monetary policy review on 1 April 2014. Citing price pressures, the Reserve Bank of India raised its key lending rates by 25 basis points after Third Quarter Review of Monetary Policy for 2013-14 on 28 January 2014.

In the foreign exchange market, the rupee edged lower against the dollar. The partially convertible rupee was hovering at 61.97, compared with its close of 61.9350/9450 on Tuesday, 25 February 2014.

Asian stocks swung between gains and losses as energy shares advanced, countering declines by raw-material producers. Key benchmark indices in China, Hong Kong, South Korea and Taiwan rose by 0.14% to 0.47%. Key benchmark indices in Singapore, Japan and Indonesia fell by 0.34% to 0.58%.

Taiwan's jobless rate nudged lower last month, as the labor force participation rate decreased, the government said today, 26 February 2014.

The island's nominal jobless rate came in at 4.02% in January, down from December's 4.08%, the Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics said.

On a seasonally adjusted basis, the jobless rate was 4.07% in January, down from 4.12% in December, the government said.

US stocks finished a choppy trading session lower on Tuesday, 25 February 2014 as gloomy reports on home prices and consumer confidence dampened the mood.

US home prices ticked down 0.1% in December, declining for a second month, with 11 of 20 tracked cities posting drops, according to S&P/Case-Shiller's composite index. After seasonal adjustments, home prices in December rose 0.8%, down a bit from 0.9% in November.

The consumer confidence index fell to 78.1 in February from 79.4 in January, the Conference Board said Tuesday, 25 February 2014.

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) next undertakes monetary policy review on 18-19 March 2014. After a monetary policy review, the FOMC on 29 January 2014 announced it will reduce monthly bond purchases by another $10 billion to $65 billion.

Source: Latest News in Hindi

From BS News

Ranbaxy Laboratories locked out of its biggest market with API shutdown

Ranbaxy Laboratories on Tuesday suspended all shipments of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) produced at its Toansa and Dewas plants in order to enable it to review processes and controls.

The two factories are currently banned from shipping products to the US following quality concerns. Last month, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) prohibited Ranbaxy from shipping to its biggest market any APIs made at its facility in Toansa in Punjab. The sanction was the latest in a series of regulatory rebukes for India’s largest drugmaker by revenue since Japan’s Daiichi Sankyo took control of the company in 2008.

A spokesperson for Ranbaxy said supplies to other markets such as Europe and India would not be significantly impacted since only 15% of the company’s API requirement was sourced from its own plants, with 85% of raw materials bought from other sites approved by foreign regulators including the US FDA and the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority. APIs are raw materials used to make finished drugs.

The Ranbaxy scrip fell as much as 2.7% in early trade on the news but closed 1% higher at Rs 367.05 on the BSE.

“Since the company has voluntarily withdrawn its production, we believe it would have made alternative arrangements for the production of the withdrawn APIs,” Sarabjit Kour Nangra, vice-president, research (pharma), Angel Broking, said.

The Toansa ban, which followed similar action on two plants in 2008 — Paonta Sahib (Himachal Pradesh) and Dewas (Madhya Pradesh) — and Mohali (Punjab) in September 2013, means Ranbaxy can no longer export to the US from India.

Ranbaxy said in a statement on Tuesday THAT it was “currently examining processes and controls” at all its API manufacturing units. “This voluntary decision was taken as a precautionary measure and out of abundant caution to better allow the company to assess and review the processes and controls,” it said in the statement.

Ranbaxy also said it has set up a committee to provide oversight on manufacturing and quality operations, systems, organisation and integrity.

Daiichi Sankyo said that it is committed to continuing to offer full support for Ranbaxy to improve quality standards. “The temporarily.

Source: Hindi News

From Financialexpress News

Amritanandamayi Math blaming the attack on Hindus

आरएसएस विचारक पी. परमेश्वरन ने झप्पी देने वाली अम्मा के रूप में प्रसिद्ध आध्यात्मिक गुरु माता अमृतानंदमयी के मठ के खिलाफ उनकी पूर्व शिष्या द्वारा लगाए गए आरोपों को हिंदुओं पर हमला करार दिया है। उनका कहना है कि मठ के प्रति लोगों में श्रद्धा भाव कम करने के लिए ऐसी बातें फैलाई जा रही हैं।

अमृतानंदमयी की शिष्या रहीं आस्ट्रेलियाई मूल की गेल गायत्री ट्रेडवेल ने अपनी किताब 'होली हेल-ए मेमॉयर ऑफ फेथ, डिवोशन एंड प्योर मैडनेस' में माता और उनके मठ को लेकर आपत्तिजनक टिप्पणियां की हैं।

इसी सिलसिले में भारतीय विचारकेंद्रम के निदेशक परमेश्वरन ने रविवार जारी बयान में कहा, मठ का चयन इसलिए किया गया क्योंकि अम्मा (अमृतानंदमयी) और मठ जाति, धर्म और क्षेत्र से उठकर अध्यात्मिकता और सेवा में रत हैं। केरल में मीडिया के एक तबके द्वारा मठ पर लगाए गए आरोपों के पीछे आध्यात्मिकता और सेवा के क्षेत्र में सक्त्रिय मठ के प्रति लोगों में श्रद्धा भाव को कम करना है। 1परमेश्वरन के मुताबिक, अभिव्यक्ति की आजादी का मतलब झूठ का प्रचार कर धार्मिक भावना को आहत करना नहीं है। ट्रेडवेल ने अपने संस्मरण में दावा किया है कि वह कई ऐसे राज जानती हैं, जिनके उजागर होने पर सनसनी फैल जाएगी। माता अमृतानंदमयी ने संस्मरण में लगाए गए आरोपों को सिरे से खारिज किया है।

Source: Spiritual News in Hindi  & Hindi Panchang

Kripalu Maharaj's daughter officially assumed command

कृपालु महाराज के अपने धाम जाने के उनकी बड़ी बेटी डॉ. विशाखा त्रिपाठी ने प्रकल्पों को आगे बढ़ाने की कमान संभाल ली है। इसकी रविवार को आधिकारिक घोषणा हो गई। डॉ. विशाखा ने कहा कि 'प्रेम मंदिर' का निर्माण विश्व में प्रेम-धर्म की स्थापना के लिए किया गया है। साथ ही जगदगुरु के कई प्रकल्प भी चल रहे हैं। वह चाहेंगी कि यह अपना काम बेहतर ढंग से करते रहें।

डॉ. विशाखा ने कृपालु महाराज के औपचारिक रूप से काम संभालने की घोषणा की। उन्होंने कहा कि ब्रज- वृंदावन से भगवान श्रीकृष्ण ने जगत को 'प्रेम' का संदेश दिया तो उनके भक्त कृपालु ने इस संदेश के सार को जगत के सामने रखने का खाका तैयार किया। 'प्रेम मंदिर' कृपालु द्वारा भगवान श्रीकृष्ण के प्रेम तत्व को साक्षात् रूप देने का एक छोटा प्रयास भर था। इसकी कल्पना उन्होंने दशकों पहले की। अपनी कल्पना को मूर्त रूप देने में कृपालु को कई साल लगे।

डॉ. विशाखा त्रिपाठी ने बताया कि विश्व भर में सनातन धर्म की पताका फराहने के साथ 'प्रेम मंदिर' निर्माण में किसी प्रकार की कोई कोताही न रहे, ऐसा प्रयास जगद्गुरु ने हमेशा किया।

प्रेम के इस संवाहक मंदिर के अलावा अत्याधुनिक सत्संग भवन, तीन सौ बेड का अस्पताल बनाने की योजना को मूर्तरूप मिलता, इससे पहले ही जगद्गुरु ने गोलोक धाम का रुख कर लिया। अब इसका जिम्मा वह संभाल रही हैं। उनका कहना है कि निराश्रित, दरिद्र नारायण सेवा, सत्संग भवन, अस्पताल निर्माण की व्यवस्था को उन्होंने गति देना शुरू कर दिया है। कृपालु परिषद की अध्यक्षा डॉ. विशाखा त्रिपाठी ने बताया कि मनगढ़ में 'श्रीभक्ति धाम', वृंदावन में 'श्री श्यामा श्याम धाम', बरसाना का 'रंगीली महल' और दिल्ली की राधा गोविंद समिति हैं। इन केंद्रों ने समाजसेवा में नये आयाम स्थापित किए। वृंदावन में 100 बेड वाला नि:शुल्क चिकित्सालय तीन महीने में शुरू कर दिया जाएगा। अत्याधुनिक मशीनों व विशेषज्ञ चिकित्सकों द्वारा यहां हर रोग का उपचार होगा।

Source: Spiritual News in Hindi & Hindi Panchang

Asia Cup: Pakistan have an upper hand in opener against Sri Lanka

The 12th edition of the Asia Cup will kick-start from Tuesday when defending champions Pakistan will lock horns with Sri Lanka at Fatullah, Bangladesh.

On papers, it`s quite difficult to judge which team is stronger. Both the teams have strong batting line ups and decent bowlers as well in their respective sides. But a few factors are in favour of Pakistan. In the last three ODI encounters between them, Pakistan have managed to snatch two wins against Sri Lanka`s sole victory.

Pakistan have a well-settled opening pair in Sharjeel Khan and Ahmed Shehzad, which can give them a good start at the top. Their all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez has also been in good form and on the top of it, he has a good track record against Sri Lanka. He is a match-winner and can give Lanka a run for their money.

Apart from that, experienced Pakistani skipper Misbah-ul-Haq has scored seven half-centuries in his last nine innings, which means the in-form skipper will be high on confidence while leading his side in the opening match.

When it come to bowling, in Bilawal Bhatti they have a promising seamer, whereas Junaid Khan has the potential to give the Sri Lankan batsmen a tough time in the middle.

Though, Pakistan have an upper hand, they can`t take Sri Lanka lightly who have won the Asia Cup four times and are strong contenders to lift the trophy this time around as well.

Source: Cricket News in Hindi

India vs Pakistan: Virat Kohli calls it hype, Misbah a big challenge

The fight for regional supremacy in the Asia Cup is always built around the marquee clash between traditional rivals India and Pakistan, and the 12th edition of the tournament is not going to be any different with fans around the world circling March 2 on their calendars.

India and Pakistan have played just five ODIs in the last three years, since that famous 2011 World Cup semi-final in Mohali. And it's the scarcity of their match-ups that keeps the fans gunning for more. But Virat Kohli feels it's just hype.

Kohli will be replacing MS Dhoni as skipper for the tournament after Dhoni was withdrawn from the squad in the eleventh hour due to a side strain. On landing in Bangladesh, Kohli was asked how his young team is shaping up for the big match, but the stand-in skipper said they are not here to play just one match.

"Obviously we are here to win the tournament. We haven't just come here to play one game and go back home; that's not our aim," Kohli said. "A game against Pakistan is always a hyped game for us, obviously a big pressure match. We take every game the same way."


However, leader of the opposition camp - Misbah-ul-Haq - chose to call the encounter a 'challenge' than hype. "It's always a big challenge playing against India because there is so much interest in the game," Misbah said.

Pakistan too are fighting injuries with pacer Mohammad Irfan ruled out due to injury and Afridi under a cloud after getting hit on his jaw during a practice game.

But an India-Pakistan encounter is not only about big games, rather the magnitude of an Indo-Pak match creates big players. And both the sides are brimming with youngsters who are itching to have a go.

Source: Cricket News in Hindi

From IBN News

Comedy Nights takes a backseat, debut film becomes priority for Kapil Sharma

Kapil Sharma, the host and producer of popular TV show Comedy Nights with Kapil, is set to embark on a movie career and he says the show would have to revert to its one-episode-per-week format due to time constraint.

Kapil will make his film debut with Yash Raj Films' Bank-Chor, which will go on floors in April.

"By now, somehow managing my schedules has become a habit for me. I am talking to you early in the morning after having worked on my show for 36 hours. Doing two episodes every week means I've to provide at least 70 minutes of content every week. It's not easy to think up funny gags every 10 seconds. We can't afford to let our audience get bored for even a few moments," said Kapil.

Given the time constraints, he says he has to cut down his television show by half.  "I've no choice but to do this. The channel Colors doesn't want me to do the show only once a week. But for the sake of the film, I've no choice but to cut down my television show by half," said the comedian, who has waited a very long time to do a movie.

"I didn't want to just carry over my Comedy Nights image into my movie career. When I heard the script of Bank Chor, I was completely taken up. It allows me room not only for comic scenes, but there is also an element of seriousness in the story," he said.

Directed by Bumpy, the film unfolds the story of three people who pick a wrong day to rob a bank. What happens when the trio is caught in a crossfire of cops, industrialists and corrupt politicians, forms the rest of the story.

"It's basically the story of the guys. So, the male casting is being done first. I am happy that I'd be making my film debut with Yashraj Films. I grew up watching their films. I never dreamt I'd be part of a Yashraj film one day," he said.

Source: Entertainment News

From HT News

Ranbir Kapoor, Katrina Kaif gear up for Sri Lankan vacation?

Alleged lovebirds Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina were believed to have called it quits after a spat but if the latest reports are anything to go by, then the two are still going strong together.

After a much controversial Spanish vacation last year, RK and Kat are reportedly planning to spend some time together in Sri Lanka. The couple had made desperate attempts to keep their trip to Ibiza hush-hush, but images of the two in their swimming costumes surfaced online, thereby creating much hullabaloo.

Both Ranbir and Katrina have been tight-lipped about their relationship and have categorically denied being in love with each other. But the pictures that emerged after their Spanish trip painted a different picture.

Nonetheless, the two seemingly have made up their minds to let bygones be bygones and plan yet another trip to be with one another amidst their busy schedules.

Katrina is currently busy shooting with Hrithik Rohsan for ‘Bang-Bang’ in Manali and her alleged beau is in Sri Lanka for Anurag Kashyap’s ‘Bombay Velvet’.

Source: Entertainment News

From Z News

'Highway' gets a slow start, earns Rs 13.97 crore in the opening weekend

 Imtiaz Ali's latest offering 'Highway' has received mixed reviews from the critics as well as the audiences. The film received a slow start at the box office and only minted Rs 13.97 crore in its opening weekend.

The film earned only Rs 3.42 on its opening day; however the business jumped only marginally on the weekend. Trade Analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted, "#Highway Fri 3.42 cr, Sat 4.80 cr, Sun 5.75 cr. Total: Rs 13.97 cr nett. India biz only."

Alia Bhatt, who is seen in a no make up look in the film, is quite appreciated for her role. Even her father Mahesh Bhatt went out to say that 'Highway' is Alia Bhatt's 'Arth'. Directed by Imtiaz Ali, the film also stars Randeep Hooda in lead role.

Source: Box Office Report

From IBN News

Katrina Kaif Receiving Constant Back Up From Salman Khan

In a recent interview, Katrina herself admits so, by saying that she is very much in touch with Salman khan, and can always count on him to be just a message away.

The flame of her love affair with Ranbir has been flickering lately, which was evident with them leaving Aamir khan’s place separately. And if the sources are to be believed, they have spent the Valentine’s Day away from each other too.

Salman khan obviously is pretty openly close with Katrina, and also another ex and former actress and modeling diva, sangeeta bijlani. Not only is Salman is her guardian angel, but apparently the entire khan family constantly watches over her, and as per an interview, Salman considers theirs to be her only family around and is very much a part of the brood.

So obviously, when katrina’s sister, isabel was about to make her bollywood debut,  salman khan was right by her side too. The movie that will mark isabel’s debut is Dr. cabbie, co-staring speedy singh fame, vinay virmani and the big bang theory star, kunal nayyar. Salman khan, not surprisingly is named as the co-producer.

With his entirely helpful nature and being a strong believer in humanity, doing so is not unusual for salman by a long shot. But as far as the the fans of this once sort-of couple are concerned, when Katrina kaif is involved, there is a lot more to it than merely lending a helping hand to a friend.

Source: Entertainment News

From aegindia News

Sonakshi Sinha wishes rumoured beau Shahid Kapoor Happy birthday

Bollywood actress Sonakshi Sinha wished her ‘R.. Rajkumar’ co-star and rumoured beau Shahid Kapoor happy birthday on Tuesday (February 25)

The actress took to Twitter to greet Shahid, “Happy Birthday @shahidkapoor!! Goa mein gandi baat aur party all night okkk :p have funnnns!!”

In Pics: Shahid Kapoor-Sonakshi Sinha, other Bollywood’s secret affairs

Shahid Kapoor, who recently wrapped up the shooting for Vishal Bharadwaj’s ‘Haider’ in Kashmir is reportedly celebrating his birthday in Goa.

According to reports, Shahid Kapoor and Sonakshi Sinha are the new lovebirds of Bollywood. The duo met on the sets of Prabhu Dheva’s ‘R.. Rajkumar’ and hit it off instantly.

We wonder if Sonakshi, who is currently busy with ‘Tever’ co-starring Arjun Kapoor, will be joining Shahid in Goa for his birthday?

Source: Bollywood News

From indianexpress News

Ukrainian interim leader to complete government

The US has yet to endorse the new leader, but says "Mr Yanukovych is no longer actively leading the country".

Meanwhile, UK Foreign Secretary William Hague and his US counterpart are due to meet in Washington later to discuss emergency financial assistance to Kiev.

An arrest warrant has been issued for Mr Yanukovych, who has disappeared.

Acting Interior Minister Arsen Avakov said a criminal case had been opened against Mr Yanukovych and other officials over "mass murder of peaceful citizens".

There have been unconfirmed reports that Mr Yanukovych is in Crimea.
Investigation

Dozens of people were killed in clashes between anti-Yanukovych protesters and riot police last week.

British investigators have told the BBC they are operating on the ground in Ukraine to help establish who was responsible for the most deadly day of violence last Thursday. They say they are gathering evidence which could be used to prosecute suspects.

Interim leader Olexander Turchynov said he hopes to form a new coalition government by Tuesday.

Former PM Yulia Tymoshenko, who was released from jail on Saturday, has ruled out becoming prime minister.

Russia on Monday issued its strongest response yet to the ousting of Mr Yanukovych, questioning the legitimacy of the Western-leaning interim leadership.

Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev said they had conducted an "armed mutiny".

In a sign of further tension, White House official Jay Carney said on Monday that although Mr Yanukovych "was a democratically elected leader, his actions have undermined his legitimacy, and he is not actively leading the country at present''. Read more..

Source: News in Hindi

From BBC News