The document analyzes and questions the official narrative of how the US raid on Osama bin Laden's compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan was carried out. It raises several issues with the idea that US helicopters flew directly from an aircraft carrier, citing distance and other logistical challenges. Alternative theories proposed include mid-air refueling by US tankers inside Pakistani airspace or landing at a Pakistani air force base. The document also questions how such a large operation could have gone unnoticed by Pakistani authorities.
This short document promotes creating presentations using Haiku Deck, a tool for making slideshows. It encourages the reader to get started making their own Haiku Deck presentation and sharing it on SlideShare. In just one sentence, it pitches the idea of using Haiku Deck to easily create engaging slideshow presentations.
The document appears to be a casting list for a production called "La Vie en Rouge" and includes 3 names: Nadra Abdirahman, Isabella Langton, and Nessrine Fellah. It seems to be announcing the casting of these 3 individuals in the production but provides no other details about their roles or the production itself.
Sneha Thakker is first generation entrepreneur who founded Thakker Technologies in 2009, which is self funded and still running smoothly without any external funding. Thakker Technologies is mainly focused on website & mobile development. Sneha has received many awards and media recognition in short span of 4 years, as an entrepreneur.
The document discusses propaganda techniques, beginning with a definition of propaganda as persuasive messaging that aims to represent the interests of a group through emotional appeals and faulty reasoning rather than logic. It notes that propaganda is intended to influence thoughts and actions and comes in many forms, but always has a persuasive function, sizeable target audience, representation of a specific group's agenda, and use of emotional appeals or faulty reasoning. The document then examines 11 common propaganda techniques: assertion, bandwagon, card stacking, glittering generalities, false dilemmas, lesser of two evils, name-calling, pinpointing the enemy, plain folk, transferring, and testimonials. It provides examples and discussion topics for analyzing different types of propaganda.
This document discusses the relationship between science, spirituality, and the nature of the self and reality. It argues that:
- While science is based on logic and empiricism, these have inherent flaws due to the illusory nature of human consciousness and perception of self.
- Spirituality, through practices like meditation, can allow people to transcend their normal consciousness and experience a "pure consciousness" state that provides a less subjective and more objective view of reality beyond the limitations of reason and senses.
- Mystical experiences facilitated by meditation practices from ancient traditions can inhibit brain activity and provide a glimpse of a "primal integral self" that grounds a less subjective perception of the absolute truths of self and reality
This short document promotes creating presentations using Haiku Deck, a tool for making slideshows. It encourages the reader to get started making their own Haiku Deck presentation and sharing it on SlideShare. In just one sentence, it pitches the idea of using Haiku Deck to easily create engaging slideshow presentations.
The document appears to be a casting list for a production called "La Vie en Rouge" and includes 3 names: Nadra Abdirahman, Isabella Langton, and Nessrine Fellah. It seems to be announcing the casting of these 3 individuals in the production but provides no other details about their roles or the production itself.
Sneha Thakker is first generation entrepreneur who founded Thakker Technologies in 2009, which is self funded and still running smoothly without any external funding. Thakker Technologies is mainly focused on website & mobile development. Sneha has received many awards and media recognition in short span of 4 years, as an entrepreneur.
The document discusses propaganda techniques, beginning with a definition of propaganda as persuasive messaging that aims to represent the interests of a group through emotional appeals and faulty reasoning rather than logic. It notes that propaganda is intended to influence thoughts and actions and comes in many forms, but always has a persuasive function, sizeable target audience, representation of a specific group's agenda, and use of emotional appeals or faulty reasoning. The document then examines 11 common propaganda techniques: assertion, bandwagon, card stacking, glittering generalities, false dilemmas, lesser of two evils, name-calling, pinpointing the enemy, plain folk, transferring, and testimonials. It provides examples and discussion topics for analyzing different types of propaganda.
This document discusses the relationship between science, spirituality, and the nature of the self and reality. It argues that:
- While science is based on logic and empiricism, these have inherent flaws due to the illusory nature of human consciousness and perception of self.
- Spirituality, through practices like meditation, can allow people to transcend their normal consciousness and experience a "pure consciousness" state that provides a less subjective and more objective view of reality beyond the limitations of reason and senses.
- Mystical experiences facilitated by meditation practices from ancient traditions can inhibit brain activity and provide a glimpse of a "primal integral self" that grounds a less subjective perception of the absolute truths of self and reality
A Constant Attitude: Words of Wisdom From Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.Haiku Deck
This document is a collection of 11 photos from Flickr that have been shared with Creative Commons licenses allowing for reuse and sharing of the images. The photos cover a variety of subjects and were taken by several different photographers.
Stress is a person's response to threatening or challenging events called stressors. Stress can be categorized as either eustress, which are good stressors like accomplishments, or distress, which are bad stressors like injuries or illnesses. Hans Selye developed the general adaptation syndrome to describe the body's three stage response to stressors - alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. Managing stress involves identifying if you are stressed, the stressor causing it, the reason for the stressor, selecting a coping strategy, and then evaluating the effectiveness of the strategy.
The document contains credits and links to 14 photos shared on Flickr under various Creative Commons licenses. The photos cover a range of subjects from nature scenes to portraits. All include the photographer name and license information.
The document discusses stress, its causes and effects on the body. It defines stress as the body's response to any physical or emotional changes, which includes increased heart rate and blood flow to muscles. Stress can be positive in moderation but chronic stress from issues like family problems, health, or financial difficulties over long periods is very harmful. The signs of stress include physical, emotional, mental and behavioral changes. Ways to manage stress discussed include being organized, assertive communication, time management, social support, relaxation techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
This document discusses the nature and components of attitudes. It defines attitude as a learned belief or feeling about a person, place, or idea that influences thoughts and actions. Attitudes have three main components - cognitive (beliefs, knowledge), affective (feelings, emotions), and behavioral (tendency to act). Attitudes are formed through life experiences with family, peers, environment, and mass media and can change over time. Measuring attitudes helps understand job satisfaction, which impacts productivity and organizational success. Managing attitudes involves understanding their formation and using feedback, role models, and information to encourage positive attitudes.
Stress management involves reducing or managing stress through various techniques. There are two main types of stress: acute stress which occurs over a short period from events like deadlines, and chronic stress which occurs over longer periods from issues like family problems. Stress in the workplace can be caused by factors like workload, relationships, and job insecurity. While stress can be motivating in moderation, high and prolonged stress can negatively impact physical health, mental health, job performance, and business costs due to absenteeism and reduced productivity. Stress management techniques provide benefits both for individuals and businesses.
This document discusses social media and its effects on youth. It provides statistics on social media usage, such as the amount of time teens spend on social platforms versus other online activities. The document also explores some negative impacts of social media and excessive screen time on teens, such as lower academic achievement, shorter attention spans, anxiety, and increased risk of cyberbullying. Studies discussed found links between media exposure and increased aggression as well as greater activation in the brain regions associated with emotion and memory. The document concludes with some ways to help combat these negative effects, such as media literacy education and moderating media consumption.
This document provides an overview of stress management. It defines stress and discusses the difference between eustress (positive stress) and distress (negative stress). It outlines various signs and causes of stress as well as the advantages and disadvantages of stress management. The document then describes different types of stressors and various approaches to managing stress, including relaxation techniques, time management strategies, maintaining a positive attitude, and stress relief activities.
Achieving the Mind, Body, Spirit and Emotions ConnectionGabriela Taylor
When we talk about the human body, most of us refer to the physical form that we see in front of us. However, in reality, every person is made up of four bodies, all of which interrelate to one another and coexist in harmony.
God’s people did not consider the consequences of idolatry and sin and therefore her collapse was awesome. She could have been glorious, as God had planned but chose to forsake Jehovah. Are we considering our future? If we do not, our collapse could be awesome too.
How to Start a Day in a Good and Happy Way
Waking up to see another day is a blessing. Don't take it for granted. Make it count and be happy that you're alive.
Every day is a new day and even if something was wrong yesterday, we can get it right today
Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” ― Mother Teresa
When you open your eyes take a half-smile and then give yourself a good morning wish to fully wake up.
http://howtobehappy.guru/how-to-start-a-day-in-a-good-and-happy-way/
Spend a few minutes concentrating on your breathing and relaxing your body.
Do not jump out of bed and start the day as if you were living in autopilot mode.
Be aware of what you are doing, start to live the present, remember Happiness is in the present moment
Decide your first thought. Do not let the first thought decide the course of your day
Remember that thoughts create our emotions and moods.
Drink a glass of water on an empty stomach, warm water or at room temperature. Why?
Because our body after all the hours of sleep can be easily dehydrated
Have breakfast. Breakfast is really the most important meal of the day.
Decide to have a Happy and Good day and
Don't Let Anything or Anyone Ruin Your Happiness!
Click here if you would like to know more
http://howtobehappy.guru/how-to-start-a-day-in-a-good-and-happy-way/
There’s more to employee wellness than what management perceives it to be. For example, the actual “way we work.”
Here at Officevibe we think the way that we work is becoming a bit outdated. We are facing a heavier “mental” workload, that typically requires us to be in front of a computer from the morning to the evening.
Not to mention the fact that we are living in a generation where management demands expedience for every task; This is messing up employee health, employee wellness (both physical and mental), and employee morale.
The mental fatigue that we face is worsened by the fact that we’re sitting down all day and we barely move around.
So, we have compiled a list of stretches that will ease the tension and help you function better and become a little healthier.
Read the full article:
https://www.officevibe.com/blog/infographic-desk-stretches
This document provides an overview of the book of Matthew structured at different levels of detail:
1) It outlines the book of Matthew at a 50,000 foot view focusing on the purpose of each biblical book.
2) It then analyzes Matthew from several perspectives including focusing on Jesus as King and providing overviews at 25,000, 10,000, and 5,000 foot views.
3) Key details are given about Jesus' teachings in Matthew including the Sermon on the Mount and his miracles which demonstrated his power over sickness and nature.
The document presents research on the effect of social networking sites on people's personal lives. It discusses popular sites like Orkut, Facebook, and MySpace. The research was conducted through questionnaires and interviews with students to understand how social networking influences relationships and how people use these sites. The report also includes a literature review of past research and analysis of the data collected. It aims to examine the impacts of social networking and provide suggestions.
This document provides a list of over 200 seminar topics related to computer science, electronics, IT, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, applied electronics, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, and MBA projects. The topics are divided into categories such as computer science projects, electronics projects, IT projects, and so on. Each topic includes a brief 1-2 sentence description. Contact information is provided at the bottom for requesting full reports on any of the topics.
Transformation of farmers agitation 2021 in IndiaShantanu Basu
This movement began as a protest against controversial farm acts by farmers, but has expanded into a broader challenge and alliance against the government by 90% of India's population. It represents common people challenging the privileged elite and seeking to replace the existing political system that perpetuates inequalities. The movement signals dissatisfaction with a system skewed in favor of upper castes and brings together various disadvantaged groups including farmers, laborers, and the unemployed from across different states. It seeks equitable policies for both buyers and sellers in the agricultural sector and other reforms benefiting farmers and rural communities.
- War clouds are gathering as Russia threatens to invade Ukraine and China flexes its muscles on the Indian border. Both countries have rebuilt their economies and militaries while Western powers have aging equipment.
- China and Russia want to show strength domestically and see Western treaties as having truncated their nations. They have penetrated infrastructure overseas and tested new weapons.
- The global power balance has shifted eastward as Western nations ceded manufacturing and technology to Asia. A future world war would likely be in Asia between East and West. India would struggle to fight on multiple fronts against China and Pakistan.
Red challenges to Biden's blue presidencyShantanu Basu
Biden faces formidable challenges as President from Republican opposition in the Senate and from Trump supporters across America. His agenda will likely be stalled as the Senate is evenly split, requiring Vice President Kamala Harris's vote. The US economy also presents challenges as it relies on high debt and deficits. Biden will face stiff opposition to providing further COVID relief, returning to Obama-era policies, and replacing Trump administration officials. Relations with China may continue as both countries rely on trade, but Biden will face pressure over issues like India from Republicans portraying him as soft. As the first Democratic president in decades, Biden will have to navigate tensions over race, business interests, and personal freedoms to achieve his reform agenda.
- War clouds are gathering as Russia threatens to invade Ukraine and China flexes its muscles on the India-China border. Both countries have rebuilt their economies and militaries while Western powers have aging equipment.
- China and Russia want to show strength domestically and see Western treaties as having truncated their nations. They have penetrated Western systems through cyber and economic means.
- The global power balance has shifted eastward as Western nations ceded manufacturing and technology to Asia. A future world war would likely be in Asia between East and West. India would struggle to fight on multiple fronts against China and Pakistan.
Red challenges to biden's blue presidencyShantanu Basu
Biden faces significant challenges as President from Republican opposition in the Senate and from conservative Americans who supported Trump. His agenda faces obstacles to passing legislation due to the even Senate split, and he may be forced to compromise on issues like abortion, immigration, and healthcare to appease conservatives. Biden also inherits an economy weakened by the pandemic and trade wars, high debt levels, and social divisions exacerbated by Trump. His ability to enact his agenda and make progress on issues like racial justice and climate change will depend on his ability to navigate these political and economic challenges from his opponents on the right.
The document summarizes India's fiscal deficit and gross liabilities for the years 2019-20 and 2020-21. It states that India's GDP in 2019-20 was approximately Rs. 250 lakh crore, with a fiscal deficit of Rs. 8.75 lakh crore or 3.5% of GDP. However, additional liabilities not provided for in the budget estimate totaled Rs. 38.75 lakh crore, bringing the real fiscal deficit to 15.5% of GDP. For 2020-21, GDP declined by 23.9% to approximately Rs. 190 lakh crore, while additional liabilities above the budget estimate of Rs. 35 lakh crore total Rs. 70 lakh
A Constant Attitude: Words of Wisdom From Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.Haiku Deck
This document is a collection of 11 photos from Flickr that have been shared with Creative Commons licenses allowing for reuse and sharing of the images. The photos cover a variety of subjects and were taken by several different photographers.
Stress is a person's response to threatening or challenging events called stressors. Stress can be categorized as either eustress, which are good stressors like accomplishments, or distress, which are bad stressors like injuries or illnesses. Hans Selye developed the general adaptation syndrome to describe the body's three stage response to stressors - alarm, resistance, and exhaustion. Managing stress involves identifying if you are stressed, the stressor causing it, the reason for the stressor, selecting a coping strategy, and then evaluating the effectiveness of the strategy.
The document contains credits and links to 14 photos shared on Flickr under various Creative Commons licenses. The photos cover a range of subjects from nature scenes to portraits. All include the photographer name and license information.
The document discusses stress, its causes and effects on the body. It defines stress as the body's response to any physical or emotional changes, which includes increased heart rate and blood flow to muscles. Stress can be positive in moderation but chronic stress from issues like family problems, health, or financial difficulties over long periods is very harmful. The signs of stress include physical, emotional, mental and behavioral changes. Ways to manage stress discussed include being organized, assertive communication, time management, social support, relaxation techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
This document discusses the nature and components of attitudes. It defines attitude as a learned belief or feeling about a person, place, or idea that influences thoughts and actions. Attitudes have three main components - cognitive (beliefs, knowledge), affective (feelings, emotions), and behavioral (tendency to act). Attitudes are formed through life experiences with family, peers, environment, and mass media and can change over time. Measuring attitudes helps understand job satisfaction, which impacts productivity and organizational success. Managing attitudes involves understanding their formation and using feedback, role models, and information to encourage positive attitudes.
Stress management involves reducing or managing stress through various techniques. There are two main types of stress: acute stress which occurs over a short period from events like deadlines, and chronic stress which occurs over longer periods from issues like family problems. Stress in the workplace can be caused by factors like workload, relationships, and job insecurity. While stress can be motivating in moderation, high and prolonged stress can negatively impact physical health, mental health, job performance, and business costs due to absenteeism and reduced productivity. Stress management techniques provide benefits both for individuals and businesses.
This document discusses social media and its effects on youth. It provides statistics on social media usage, such as the amount of time teens spend on social platforms versus other online activities. The document also explores some negative impacts of social media and excessive screen time on teens, such as lower academic achievement, shorter attention spans, anxiety, and increased risk of cyberbullying. Studies discussed found links between media exposure and increased aggression as well as greater activation in the brain regions associated with emotion and memory. The document concludes with some ways to help combat these negative effects, such as media literacy education and moderating media consumption.
This document provides an overview of stress management. It defines stress and discusses the difference between eustress (positive stress) and distress (negative stress). It outlines various signs and causes of stress as well as the advantages and disadvantages of stress management. The document then describes different types of stressors and various approaches to managing stress, including relaxation techniques, time management strategies, maintaining a positive attitude, and stress relief activities.
Achieving the Mind, Body, Spirit and Emotions ConnectionGabriela Taylor
When we talk about the human body, most of us refer to the physical form that we see in front of us. However, in reality, every person is made up of four bodies, all of which interrelate to one another and coexist in harmony.
God’s people did not consider the consequences of idolatry and sin and therefore her collapse was awesome. She could have been glorious, as God had planned but chose to forsake Jehovah. Are we considering our future? If we do not, our collapse could be awesome too.
How to Start a Day in a Good and Happy Way
Waking up to see another day is a blessing. Don't take it for granted. Make it count and be happy that you're alive.
Every day is a new day and even if something was wrong yesterday, we can get it right today
Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” ― Mother Teresa
When you open your eyes take a half-smile and then give yourself a good morning wish to fully wake up.
http://howtobehappy.guru/how-to-start-a-day-in-a-good-and-happy-way/
Spend a few minutes concentrating on your breathing and relaxing your body.
Do not jump out of bed and start the day as if you were living in autopilot mode.
Be aware of what you are doing, start to live the present, remember Happiness is in the present moment
Decide your first thought. Do not let the first thought decide the course of your day
Remember that thoughts create our emotions and moods.
Drink a glass of water on an empty stomach, warm water or at room temperature. Why?
Because our body after all the hours of sleep can be easily dehydrated
Have breakfast. Breakfast is really the most important meal of the day.
Decide to have a Happy and Good day and
Don't Let Anything or Anyone Ruin Your Happiness!
Click here if you would like to know more
http://howtobehappy.guru/how-to-start-a-day-in-a-good-and-happy-way/
There’s more to employee wellness than what management perceives it to be. For example, the actual “way we work.”
Here at Officevibe we think the way that we work is becoming a bit outdated. We are facing a heavier “mental” workload, that typically requires us to be in front of a computer from the morning to the evening.
Not to mention the fact that we are living in a generation where management demands expedience for every task; This is messing up employee health, employee wellness (both physical and mental), and employee morale.
The mental fatigue that we face is worsened by the fact that we’re sitting down all day and we barely move around.
So, we have compiled a list of stretches that will ease the tension and help you function better and become a little healthier.
Read the full article:
https://www.officevibe.com/blog/infographic-desk-stretches
This document provides an overview of the book of Matthew structured at different levels of detail:
1) It outlines the book of Matthew at a 50,000 foot view focusing on the purpose of each biblical book.
2) It then analyzes Matthew from several perspectives including focusing on Jesus as King and providing overviews at 25,000, 10,000, and 5,000 foot views.
3) Key details are given about Jesus' teachings in Matthew including the Sermon on the Mount and his miracles which demonstrated his power over sickness and nature.
The document presents research on the effect of social networking sites on people's personal lives. It discusses popular sites like Orkut, Facebook, and MySpace. The research was conducted through questionnaires and interviews with students to understand how social networking influences relationships and how people use these sites. The report also includes a literature review of past research and analysis of the data collected. It aims to examine the impacts of social networking and provide suggestions.
This document provides a list of over 200 seminar topics related to computer science, electronics, IT, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, civil engineering, applied electronics, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, and MBA projects. The topics are divided into categories such as computer science projects, electronics projects, IT projects, and so on. Each topic includes a brief 1-2 sentence description. Contact information is provided at the bottom for requesting full reports on any of the topics.
Transformation of farmers agitation 2021 in IndiaShantanu Basu
This movement began as a protest against controversial farm acts by farmers, but has expanded into a broader challenge and alliance against the government by 90% of India's population. It represents common people challenging the privileged elite and seeking to replace the existing political system that perpetuates inequalities. The movement signals dissatisfaction with a system skewed in favor of upper castes and brings together various disadvantaged groups including farmers, laborers, and the unemployed from across different states. It seeks equitable policies for both buyers and sellers in the agricultural sector and other reforms benefiting farmers and rural communities.
- War clouds are gathering as Russia threatens to invade Ukraine and China flexes its muscles on the Indian border. Both countries have rebuilt their economies and militaries while Western powers have aging equipment.
- China and Russia want to show strength domestically and see Western treaties as having truncated their nations. They have penetrated infrastructure overseas and tested new weapons.
- The global power balance has shifted eastward as Western nations ceded manufacturing and technology to Asia. A future world war would likely be in Asia between East and West. India would struggle to fight on multiple fronts against China and Pakistan.
Red challenges to Biden's blue presidencyShantanu Basu
Biden faces formidable challenges as President from Republican opposition in the Senate and from Trump supporters across America. His agenda will likely be stalled as the Senate is evenly split, requiring Vice President Kamala Harris's vote. The US economy also presents challenges as it relies on high debt and deficits. Biden will face stiff opposition to providing further COVID relief, returning to Obama-era policies, and replacing Trump administration officials. Relations with China may continue as both countries rely on trade, but Biden will face pressure over issues like India from Republicans portraying him as soft. As the first Democratic president in decades, Biden will have to navigate tensions over race, business interests, and personal freedoms to achieve his reform agenda.
- War clouds are gathering as Russia threatens to invade Ukraine and China flexes its muscles on the India-China border. Both countries have rebuilt their economies and militaries while Western powers have aging equipment.
- China and Russia want to show strength domestically and see Western treaties as having truncated their nations. They have penetrated Western systems through cyber and economic means.
- The global power balance has shifted eastward as Western nations ceded manufacturing and technology to Asia. A future world war would likely be in Asia between East and West. India would struggle to fight on multiple fronts against China and Pakistan.
Red challenges to biden's blue presidencyShantanu Basu
Biden faces significant challenges as President from Republican opposition in the Senate and from conservative Americans who supported Trump. His agenda faces obstacles to passing legislation due to the even Senate split, and he may be forced to compromise on issues like abortion, immigration, and healthcare to appease conservatives. Biden also inherits an economy weakened by the pandemic and trade wars, high debt levels, and social divisions exacerbated by Trump. His ability to enact his agenda and make progress on issues like racial justice and climate change will depend on his ability to navigate these political and economic challenges from his opponents on the right.
The document summarizes India's fiscal deficit and gross liabilities for the years 2019-20 and 2020-21. It states that India's GDP in 2019-20 was approximately Rs. 250 lakh crore, with a fiscal deficit of Rs. 8.75 lakh crore or 3.5% of GDP. However, additional liabilities not provided for in the budget estimate totaled Rs. 38.75 lakh crore, bringing the real fiscal deficit to 15.5% of GDP. For 2020-21, GDP declined by 23.9% to approximately Rs. 190 lakh crore, while additional liabilities above the budget estimate of Rs. 35 lakh crore total Rs. 70 lakh
1. The document discusses the political and economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, originating from China. It argues that while the Chinese government is culpable for initially suppressing information about the outbreak, blaming the Chinese people is unfair.
2. It describes how China's economic reforms and opening up led to massive growth and wealth creation, but also political ambitions and social tensions. The pandemic may cause countries to bring manufacturing back and reconsider their dependence on China.
3. India is positioned to benefit if it replicates China's economic model to attract investment and jobs, but it faces major challenges around infrastructure, bureaucracy, and corruption. Overall, the pandemic could spur manufacturing growth in multiple countries and regions.
1. The author argues that nationalism in India is often propagated by politicians to distract from domestic issues and consolidate power, rather than unite people. True nationalism respects India's diversity and ensures prosperity for all.
2. Many contributors to India's freedom struggle and cultural heritage are unknown or forgotten. Figures from all religions, genders, and social groups made sacrifices but a narrow version of nationalism promotes only certain identities.
3. India still faces significant issues of poverty, hunger, and inequality despite recent economic growth. True nationalism requires upholding democracy and rule of law to protect all citizens' rights and development.
India's Public Finances are in ShamblesShantanu Basu
The finances of the Government of India (GOI) are in dire straits. As of January 2020, the fiscal deficit was estimated at Rs. 9.85 lakh crore, which is about a third of total budgeted expenditures. With disastrous tax revenue in the first three quarters of the fiscal year and the impact of COVID-19, the actual deficit could exceed 45-50% of expenditures. Adding additional off-budget borrowing, the deficit could jump to 45% of revenues. To fill this large shortfall, GOI will need to take on substantial new borrowing, further increasing debt levels and interest payments in the coming years. The financial condition of GOI is weak, limiting its ability to provide further fiscal support
The document discusses India's debate around issuing sovereign bonds. It notes that India's high levels of domestic debt could amount to 45-50% of the government's budget annually. Issuing sovereign bonds in US dollars also presents risks like currency fluctuations, inflation risks, and lower credit ratings increasing interest rates. While sovereign bonds could raise large funds, there are doubts around India's ability to repay its obligations without impacting domestic debt payments or leading to a debt crisis. Alternative domestic funding options that avoid sovereign bond risks need more exploration.
The author argues that a lockdown in India would be misplaced and ineffective at stopping the spread of Covid-19 due to several factors unique to India. First, high population densities in urban and rural areas would make social distancing and quarantine impossible. Second, many migrant workers have returned from overseas and are traveling within India, negating the impact of a lockdown. Third, daily necessities are purchased from dense markets and small shops, and shutting these down would cause food shortages and panic. The author provides several alternative suggestions to address the virus, such as increased testing, protective equipment for frontline workers, and enlisting private industry to help produce medical supplies.
This document summarizes the debate around India issuing sovereign bonds for the first time. It notes that India already has high levels of domestic debt totaling Rs. 350-400 lakh crore. Issuing dollar-denominated sovereign bonds would expose India to currency and inflation risks given its lower-medium credit rating. While sovereign bonds could raise large funds, India may struggle to find projects that generate enough return to pay the estimated 6-7% coupon rate required due to these risks. The document argues for reforms like reducing government ministries, increasing foreign portfolio investment limits, and privatizing some state projects before relying too heavily on sovereign bonds.
Revocation of Art. 370 - The Ultimate Victory?Shantanu Basu
The document discusses corruption among politicians in Kashmir and the siphoning of public funds. It argues that revoking Article 370 is not an end in itself and that more needs to be done to address corruption. Statistics are provided showing large expenditures and grants to Kashmir compared to low revenues and poor development outcomes. The author urges the government to take exemplary action against corrupt politicians, scrutinize financial records, improve governance and economic opportunities in Kashmir, and handle the situation with care and fairness to avoid further conflict.
Dance of democracy or descent into mockocracyShantanu Basu
Briefly discusses the role of small parties that do not participate in elections in India but are errand boys of the larger ones in criminality like cash and drugs distribution during elections in India.
1. The author argues that excessive nationalism propagated by politicians is often used to mask internal flaws and promote superiority over others. However, true nationalism accepts diversity and is inclusive.
2. The author notes that India's rich cultural heritage and history of national heroes is often unknown or forgotten. Many contributions to India's freedom struggle came from a diverse range of individuals across religions and social groups.
3. While India has become one of the largest economies, there remains significant hunger and poverty that true nationalism should aim to address. Crony capitalism has benefited the privileged more than addressing issues facing the masses. The rule of law and democracy are also threatened when different rules apply to different groups.
Briefly registers my protest against the proposed implementation of NYAYA by the Indian National Congress. It opposes the very idea of unsustainable cash handouts to the indigent.
Ten takeaways from india state assembly elections 2018Shantanu Basu
1. The document provides 10 takeaways from the 2018 Indian state assembly elections. Key issues included voters rejecting both the BJP's majoritarian religious politics and the INC's weak religious appeals. Development was prioritized over allegations of corruption.
2. Voters rejected negative campaigning and were not swayed by promises or incentives but cared most about issues like jobs, farm loans, prices, and wages. Narrow victory margins showed that politicians must deliver or face backlash.
3. Caste and religious loyalties mattered less while educated leaders were preferred. Social media was a double-edged sword that allowed debates to influence remote voters. A silent voter revolution occurred as voters rejected empty promises and arrogance.
Telecom Revolution, Governnace and Elections in IndiaShantanu Basu
Briefly discusses the telecom and media revolutions in India. The article concludes that a large part of voting in India's next General Election in 2019 would be decided from homes and that such choices would make voters much more conscious of seeking accountability of their elected representatives.
Telecom Revolution, Governnace and Elections in India
Osama killing whodunit
1. US over Abbottabad: Whodunit?<br />Much is being preached about the bona fide of the US raid to kill Osama bin Laden in Abbotabad. For a start, Jalalabad in Afganistan is 260 km away while the nearest link to the Arabian Sea is 1537 km away. The choppers reportedly used were Sikorsky UH-60L series that can carry 11 troops with equipment, lift 1170 kg of cargo internally or 4050 kg of cargo externally by sling and carry 2500 litres of extra fuel at a top speed of 309 kmph. The choppers shown in TV grabs also appear to be painted white, the universal colour of navies across the world. Their service ceiling is 19150 ft. and range without supplementary tanks is 550 km.<br />Assuming these were US Navy choppers and based on the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson, the choppers would have flown about 3500 km from their base and returned to the carrier with Osama’s mortal remains and last rites. This would have surely taken at least nine hours each way at top speed. En route the choppers would have flown over or close to Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan and Faisalabad, most of which have sizeable Pakistan army and air force presence and civil air traffic. Add to this 45 minutes hovering over Abbottabad during the operation. Supplementary fuel tanks apart from slowing down the choppers would have also made them more easily detectable for their bulk. It is therefore quite likely that the choppers either resorted to mid-air refueling or else stopped for fuel en route INSIDE Pakistan. Fearful of public discovery, these choppers may have surreptitiously landed at a PAF air base for refueling. Or else the Pakistan government permitted USAF tanker aircraft in their air space for in-flight refueling of these choppers.<br />Turning to the Pakistan political establishment’s stand that they were unaware of any foreign air raid on their soil as it happened, it is likely that the US Navy may have deployed Northrop Grumman EA-6B Prowler aircraft for jamming Pakistani radar signals so long as the choppers were in Pakistani air space. For the attack to have taken place at approximately 0100 hours, the choppers would have entered Pakistani air space at least at about 1700 hours Pakistan Time which is the beginning of peak time for all PIA and many international passenger flights to land in or fly over Pakistani air space. It is therefore inconceivable that a non-functional radar system would have remained undetected for over 18 hours, even over Islamabad and Rawalpindi, the national capital and Pak Army’s HQ of War respectively, particularly with their anti-India paranoia! Further in summer, ambient light is adequate till at least 2000 hours for detection of such large machines of war even by the naked eye. It therefore seems most improbable that this was a sea-based attack.<br />Now let us turn to the possibility of the raid having originated in Jalalabad, 260 km from Abbottabad. Let us also assume that half this distance was in Pakistan. At a top speed of 309 kmph, the choppers would have taken about 45 minutes flying time each way over Pakistani air space. Adding the actual operation time of 45 minutes, the total time these choppers were in Pakistani air space would be a quarter over two hours. Even if the Northrop Grumman EA-6B Prowler aircraft were deployed by the US Navy in this area, forward air bases of the PAF would have noticed their radars on the blink, all at the same time, and scrambled PAF aircraft. Incidentally, large number of India-bound international flights traverses Pakistani air space at this hour. Air traffic controllers would have noticed their radars on the blink and notified the PAF immediately. Or international flights navigated without radar support from Pakistani ATCs that would have raised international hue and cry. The most plausible explanation therefore is that radar systems were never deliberately shut down or even jammed since the international media did not carry any stories of either Pak air space being closed or the absence of ATC support from Pakistan.<br />Let us now turn to Abbottabad which is located 115 km north east of Islamabad and 116 km from Rawalpindi at an altitude of 4010 feet. Abbottabad is home to several Pak Army regimental centers and the Pak Military Academy in the neighbouring suburb of Kakul, 800 metres from Osama’s home. The district of Abbottabad has a population of about a million with population density of nearly 475 per sq km. The online Guardian quotes local real estate dealers saying that Osama’s house was worth only about a crore of Rupees. Nonetheless, it had suspiciously high walls and no one, except a courier, ever ventured out of it. Would 475 people in the sq. km. surrounding this house not suspect a rat? Now juxtapose these facts and statistics with what the Chinese national news agency Xinhua had to say about this raid. <br />Xinhua says electricity was cut off to Abbottabad by the local civil administration at the instance of the Army GHQ in Rawalpindi as the operation to kill Osama began. In the summer heat this would have forced 475 people per sq. km on an average outdoors cursing the electricity board’s inefficiency. Xinhua also says residents of Abbottabad took videos and cellphone pictures from their rooftops as the spectacular helicopter landing and firefight was under way. Obviously, since they were outdoors, they would. In any case, a large firefight with its attendant sounds and fires would attract inmates of densely-populated Abbottabad. Many would have also gathered to save the inmates of the house. Xinhua fills this in by saying Pakistani security forces cordoned off the entire area near Osama’s safe house before the Americans attacked it. No one was allowed to enter or leave the operational surroundings during the attack. Intriguingly, international media correspondents did not find too many civilian witnesses next day. Xinhua explains that Pakistani security forces went from house to house collecting memory cards from cameras and seizing videos from residents soon enough so that the pictures were not transmitted by freelance citizen journalists in search of a quick buck. You Tube does not abound with such uploads other than one which too appears to be an US official release. Xinhua’s version is therefore entirely plausible and most believable.<br />Add to these, repeated failures of US covert civil and military operations in Cuba, Somalia, Iran, Vietnam, Lebanaon, botched SEAL raids in Pakistan in 2008 and the accidental killing by SEALS of British hostage Linda Norgrove, held by militants in Afghanistan in 2010. The Abbottbad raid was clinically precise as the Israeli Mossad mission to capture Adolf Eichman from Argentina in the early sixties and many others. Were the Americans alone in this raid to kill Osama?<br />So was it a quid pro quo between the Pakistani military and President Obama? The Pakistanis would allow the Americans to kill Osama on their soil while President Obama made a case for releasing the balance $3 billion military aid to Pakistan to “engage in the fight against terror.” The killing also happily coincides with Obama’s declaration to run for a second term as a national hero, a modern day Abe Lincoln, who bailed out America from slavery in perpetuity to the Al-Qaeda. The US media’s elephantine memory also portrays Obama being part of the continuum in history when Presidents Bush and Musharraf agreed to help each other’s nations in tracking down Osama a decade ago.<br />As for the now Late Osama, some sections of the international press made him out to be a pensioner, like many Pakistanis, settled into a peaceful and retired life in the salubrious climes of Abbottabad. Now the camera and lung focus shifts to Al-Zawahiryi and fifty others and military aid to Pakistan continues for God’s lifetime till these are caught or killed in ‘covert’ raids– sounds like a familiar fairy tale, doesn’t it? After all the US Administration has candidly observed that 9/11 was ‘different’ from 26/11.<br />I have used extensive information freely available on the Internet for my above conclusions to further prove Pak’s complicity in the Osama killing. However, Indian ‘experts’ and voluble moderators who dominate innumerable and inane TV unlimited talk shows continue to rely on vituperative English alone even when our own security is severely compromised without proffering workable solutions. In the meantime, Aman ki Asha is being challenged by China’s 34 India-specific assault divisions versus India’s nine says the Indian Army. Aman ki asha or daman ko aamantran?<br />