Save the Tigers!

Are we concerned about preserving Tiger our national animal? Perhaps no. Why so? This animal has been associated for ages with beauty and power. The symbols of tiger are depicted in the Sanchi Stupa, as well as the coins which come out from the Indian Mint. Due to urbanization in almost all regions of India- we are silently watching the forests of our nation (which are the real homes of the tigers) fade away. Why are we not nurturing our national pride? Why are we taking the side of the catastrophe of conversationalist? The debate continues…

This calamity which we are not taking seriously is even worse than the debacle of the World Trade Center (WTC) being reduced to rubble. The WTC is being rebuilt. However, the loves lost in the disaster is a sorry truth. If the tigers of our nation once perish- they cannot be replicated. Can they? If we do not take the action to protect our forests and its animals, especially the tigers- our future generations will never get a chance to see (in zoo) how a tiger looks like!

Projects to Curb Killing of Tigers:

Many an ambitious projects have been launched in India to stop this menace- killing of the tigers. The most important of these attempts ‘Project Tiger’ was launched in the year 1973 (1^st of April) in the Corbett National Park. It was inaugurated by the then Prime Minister Shrimati Indira Gandhi. This project has been an utter failure. At the time of its launch there were more than 2000 tigers. Now the number has almost halved.

The Statistics of the Tigers in India:

You will be shocked to know that around 100 years back there were more than 50,000 tigers in the country. Now, we are hardly left with approximately 1400 tigers in our country! As you are reading this blog- some poacher may be lurking in the jungles ready to slay a tiger. Rise- awake- do something to protect the tigers of the nation!

In the seven protected areas a minimum of 80 tigers have been poached. There are 75 such protected areas. The figures of the tigers poached in all the areas taken together are a matter of serious concern but are we concerned? The Sariska Reserve has lost all its tigers. 25 tigers in the famous tiger zone Ranthambore have been poached. The tigers in the Rani Durgawati Sanctuary and Palpurkuno (Madhya Praesh), Sawai Maan Singh Sanctuary (Rajasthan), and Kala Devi Sanctuary have reduced at alarming rates. The Panna Reserve has lost around 30 tigers.

Last January (year 2010) the Jim Corbett National Park lost five tigers in the same month. This is of course a disaster. Search was conducted to delve to the reason of the loss. It seems to be the notoriety of the poachers of the area. It is hard to digest, but even the protectors of law (few policemen) support these poachers. Skins of tigers illegally killed have been seized from Sundarbans, as well as forests in Uttar Pradesh and Orissa. These are stealthily exported to counties like Nepal and Tibet for hefty amounts. The skins of the tigers are used to make dresses in these countries.

Fate of the Tigers Elsewhere:

Not only in India, but also in South China, Java, Caspian and Bali the tigers are becoming extinct due to poaching. No rule, law or project is enough to curb the killing of this epitome of power, unless we become sensitive to where the future is taking us to.

How to Protect the Tigers?

We should learn from the loopholes we have left in the previous attempts to save the tigers. Competent officials should be based in the protected areas, who cannot be lured by the poachers. The forest guards should be proactive. The laws for poaching should be made more stringent, and those breaking the rules should be severely punished. Felling of trees in the tiger habitats should be stopped immediately. Research and training how to preserve this national heritage should be conducted at frequent intervals. Legal support should lend out helping hands to the tiger (well virtually!). International organizations should also intervene in these novel movements. After all, global ecology is to be maintained by saving the tigers!

Do Not Preach. Be Proactive…

The future of the tigers in our nation is absolutely uncertain. I feel that the armchair intellectuals, the forest dwellers, the tribals, and the (so-called) activists are actually doing very little, or nothing to protect the tigers. If we continue being so callous we will reach a point of no returns. Then we have to forget that there exists an animal called ‘tiger’. Let us act, before it is too late. Let us take measures to stop destruction of forests, and its animals. Finally, poaching has to be stopped by the government. Is this too much to ensure that our future generations get a chance to have a glimpse of the tigers?

There are very few who realize the grave situation this incredible animal is facing in India. This animal is at the apex of the food chain in the forest. If adequate supply of food and a natural surrounding to dwell is available- this animal multiplies very fast. The recent years are seeing the reverse. The tigers are struggling for existence.

If the tigers reduce in drastic numbers, the other animals (on whom the tiger feeds) will surpass the adequate number. This will result in less of food for them. The vegetation of the forest will soon perish. The jungles will come to an end. This will hamper the oxygen supply in the air. Should we take this predicted destruction casually? Well, even a layman should understand the implications disturbing this ecological balance. It is high time for us to be proactive to save the tigers. Join hands! Will you?

Visit Port Blair

 

Port Blair is the capital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands (a group of islands). Port Blair is also call the Emerald Islands, because of its lush greenery. The pristine beauty of Port Blair has seen many a historic moments. The sea-sides are enjoyable. There are two modes of travel to Port Blair from India. You can travel to this place directly from Chennai, Vishakhapatnam as well as Kolkata by ship. The Kolkata and Chennai airports have flights connecting Port Blair. However, only one flight is available from both the cities to and fro Port Blair in a day (in the morning hours). The Vir Savarkar Airport in Port Blair is only 2 kilometres from the heart of the city. There are taxis and auto-rickshaws outside the terminus of the airport at the time of arrival of the flights. There are many public buses available near the airport or the jetty.

Port Blair is named after Archibald Blair who was a lieutenant in the British Era. He tried to set up a colony in the region in the year 1789. Port Blair was also the place chosen by the eminent freedom fighter Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose to carry out his activities temporarily. The famous song ‘Holes to Heaven’ composed by Jack Johnson, a Hawaii born musician and film-maker has made this island famous.

The Cellular Jail of Port Blair is very infamous for the torture meted out to the prisoners. This was the place where the revolutionaries of the Indian Freedom Movement were sent. Some were hanged here. You can get immersed in the spirit of the struggle for freedom of India through the light and sound shows in the evening hours. These shows depict the sufferings of the freedom fighter kept or hanged here. The nearby places are Wandoor, Ross Inland, North Bay and so on.

How to Get Around?

You can explore the islands by simply walking, but you should be along-with a local. Other-wise you will get lost because most of the places may look similar with steep high grounds. There are abundant auto-rickshaws in Port Blair. The minimum fare is 10 rupees. You have to pay the fare according to the distance. You may get up into any auto-rickshaw, and ask them to take you to Aberdeen Bazaar in Port Blair. This is an important land-mark. Local buses facilitate travel inter and intra-city. Scooters, motorcycles and private cars are available for hire to be used for inland tours. You have to go to other islands by ferries. Boats, steamers and a type of canoes are available to take you to your place of interest. It is advisable to be aware of the places before you embark on your voyage.

Port Blair Tourist Highlights:

• Gandhi Park- This is a small park with facilities such as amusement rides, nature train, safe aqua sports and historic remains in the garden. There is a Japanese temple and a bunker. Initially the Dilthaman tank was the sole source of drinking water to the people of Port Blair. This tank is located in the park. This is a great destination to visit with kids. The Gandhi Park was built in an amazingly short period of 13 days.
• Mini Zoo- This is in the Haddo area on the Delanipur- Chatham Road. Many rare species of birds and animals are found in this zoo. Well, the number of birds and animals are quite less (around 15). This zoo is too small and hence called Mini Zoo.
• Wandoor- This is a beautiful beach located 29 kilometres from Port-Blair. The water is shallow green.
• Mahatma Gandhi Park- This is at a distance of 29 kilometres from Port Blair at Wandoor. It covers an area of 281.5 square kilometer. The marine park is made up of open sea and creeks. You can view the marine habitat and rocks from the glass floor of the boats. Thrilling activities like scuba diving and snorkeling can be carried out here.
• Sippighat Farm- This is 14 kilometres from Port Blair. The farm has an area of 80 acres or 3,20,000 square metres. It is a government farm. Research and development for cultivations of cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, pepper and coconut are carried out here. The Central Agricultural Research Institute or CARI is located in the area.
• Chidiya Tapu- It is 25 kilometres from Port Blair in the southern end of South Andaman. The lush mangroves and the greenery of the forests render peace to mind. The chirpings of the birds are worth enjoying. The hillocks in the area give a majestic view of the Islands. Conducted tour commence from the area.
• Collinpur- Collinpur is located next to Tirur. This is 36 kilometres from Port Blair. This place has an enchanting beach (of sand). This place is very apt for swimming, sunbathing, as well as viewing the sunset. Many people select this location for picnics.
• Madhuban- This area is suitable for trekking. It is in South Andaman (north-east area). Tourists can trek to this place and see rare species of butterflies, birds, elephants, as well as flora.
• Mount Harriet- If you travel to this place by road you have to cover a distance of 55 kilometres, whereas it is only 15 kilometres via the waterways. On the top of the mountain you will get an enchanting view of the surroundings. The height of Mount Harriet is 365 metres approximately. Conducted tours are available to this place commencing at the Teal House in Andaman.
• Ross Island- The area of the Ross Island is 6 square kilometers. Once upon a time this was the place from where the British administered the surrounding islands. There are defunct club houses, granaries, theatre halls, church, graveyard, residential complexes, tennis courts. The earthquake of 1941 ended the craze for the Englishmen to reside in this island. Now people ferry to this place by boat and steamers for a short trip. Boats depart from the Pheonix Bay jetty for the Ross Island in the morning hours between 8.30 am and 12.30 pm.

Hill Stations in India

The hill stations in India are perfect destinations for tourists to visit during the summer months. The picturesque hills of the country beacons all. The compelling beauty of the Hill stations is a visual delight for one and all. Crowds throng these tourist destinations almost all over the year.

These places are tucked far away from them maddening crowds. The lush greenery, the fresh air, the mountain dews and the snow capped peaks create a have for the vacation seekers. People escape to the hill stations to avert the scorching heat of the plains. The picturesque beauty of the hills entices the international tourist and many of them keep on frequenting India without inhibitions.

The adventure enthusiasts have ample scope for trekking and explorations in these Hill stations. Sporting activities like trekking, mountaineering, rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, skiing and paragliding are very popular. The newly weds prefer to go to these places for honeymoons and start their conjugal life in a romantic way. There is romance in the air of the hills. Therefore, these hills help to revive many a staggering marital or conjugal lives.

The students of botany and geography are taken for excursion to the hill stations to link the learning of the class to the real scenario.  These students collect leaves of plants and other flora and fauna which can be preserved. They may also collect rocks and other findings for experiential learning.

The travel agents provide several tour packages to suit different travel plans and budgets. You need to chalk out your travel plan prior to your booking to facilitate your to avail the utmost of your trip to any hill station. Almost all hill stations are connected by rails and roads. A few of these places have air connectivity also.

The most famous hill stations of India are the following:

• Jammu and Kashmir- Gulmarg, Srinagar and Sonmarg
• Himachal Pradesh- Shimla, Kulu and Manali
• Uttarkhand- Mussoorie, Nainital and Kausani
• Rajasthan- Mount Abu
• West Bengal – Darjeeling, Gangtok and Kalimpong
• South India- Ooty, Kodaikanal and Munnar

Hill Stations in Northern part of India:

North India has the highest number of hill stations due to its geographic advantage. Many of the best hill stations of the world are located here. Many people plan their trips to North Indian Hill Stations to rejuvenate themselves. The snow capped mountains, the greenery, the fresh air, the friendly people all invite tourists from all over the world. The famous hill stations of North India are Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Srinagar, Chail, Chamba, Dalhousie, Dharamsala, Kangra, Kasauli, Khajjiar, Kufri, Kullu, Manali, Palampur,  Renuka, Shimla, Zanskar, Almora, Badrinath, Gangotri, Kausani, Mussoorie, Nainital,  Pithoragarh and Ranikhet.

Hill Stations in the Southern part of India:

The southern part of the country is blessed with hill stations like Anantagiri, Coonoor, Coorg, Idukki, Kodaikanal, Munnar, Ooty, Peermade and many more. While planning your trip in South India you should never ever miss out the popular hill stations of the state you are visiting. So pack your bag with proper woolies (you may need in the evenings) and embark on the trip to a peak in South India. The charms of these hills will fascinate and rejuvenate you.

Hill Stations in Eastern part of India:

The beauty of East India is synonymous with natural beauty and diversity of culture. The famous hill stations in the eastern zone are Darjeling, Gangtok, Kalimpong, Mirik, Kursheong, Shillong and Tawang.

Hill Stations in Western part of India:

These hill stations blend natural beauty with adventure facilities. The exotic locales of the Hills of Western India are a must visit destinations. The popular hill stations in this zone are  Khandala, Lonavala, Mahabaleshwar, Mantheran, Panchghani, Panhala and Saputara.

Short Description of the Hills Stations in India:

Darjeeling Hill Station- If you want to view Kanchenjunga the third highest peak in world- you must visit Darjeeling in the northern part of West Bengal. Well, this is not all you can enjoy pleasure rides in the largest man-made lake in the hills called Mirik. You can view the enthralling sunrise in the Tiger Hills. Last but not the least, you can stroll in the mall- gossip, eat and visit the shops and stalls to purchase garments, woolens and so on.

Kodaikanal Hill Station- Kodaikanal or Kodai is in the southern part of the Palani Hills. It is 120 kilometres from Madhurai in the southern part of the country. The altitude is 2100 metres. The slopes of the hills are filled with woods, waterfalls, and rocks.

Khandala Hill Station– This is set at the height of 625 metres in the Sahyadri Ranges in the western slopes. Khandala is located in the state of Maharashtra. The panoramic views are seen to be believed.

Lonavala Hill Station– This is a hill station in Maharashtra. This is known to be the jewel in the Sahyadri Mountains. This is a popular as a health resort.

Manali Hill Station– This is a very important hill station in the north of India. This hills station attracts innumerable tourists. The name is derived from Manavalaya (home of Manu). People also come here for pilgrimigages.

Mount Abu Hill Station– This hill station looks like an oasis of greenery in the barren deserts of Rajasthan. This is located in the southern end of the Aravali range. The rich fauna renders the coolness to the climate of the area.

Mussoorie Hill Station– This is a charming location in the hills of Garhwal. The distance of Mussourie from Dehradun is 34 kilometres. The altitude is 2003 metres.

Nainital Hill Station– This hill station has many lakes and greenery. The famous temple of Naina Devi is visited by tourists enthusiastically. There are many more temples. This land abounds many mythological stories and legends.

Ooty Hill Station– Ooty (Udhagamandalam) is situtated in the Nilgiris. This is a favorite retreat in the southern India. There are orchards of peaches, plums, as well as tea and eucalyptus plantations.

Shimla Hill Station– This is the most popular hill stations in India. It was the summer capital of India in the British era. The altitude of Shimla is 2,196 metres. In this location reminiscence of the British rule lingers till date. The city of Shimla has accessibility to many major destinations. It is well connected by many rails and roads.

Metro Ride in Kolkata

Have you ever enjoyed a tide in the metro rail at Kolkata (previously called Calcutta) in the eastern state of West Bengal? If not you have missed something in life! Visit Kolkata soon and explore the pleasure already enjoyed by the teaming millions. Are you ardent to know more- about the metro railways in Kolkata? Read on…

A Brief Overveiw of the Kolkata Metro Railway: The city of Kolkata boasts of the metro rail network in the undergrounds. The metro railway way of Kolkata has achieved the status of zonal railways. The operations started in 1984. In those days the metro railway in Kolkata used to ply between Esplanade and Bhowanipur. With the passage of time the metro railways started growing in length (well literally). Now, the expansion of the metro railways is between Dumdum (in north of Kolkata) and Garia (in the southern fringe of the city). There are plans of constructing the metro railways between the eastern and western parts of the city.

The idea to build underground railway station was conceived in 1949 by the Late Bidhan Chadra Roy (a noted political figure and reformer). In that time the coaches had ordinary revolving gates. The first metro coach was flagged off from Esplanade to Bhowanipur (now Netaji Bhavan) carrying eminent personalities under the ministership of Abu Barkat Ataur Ghani Khan Choudhury. He served as the Railway Minister between 1982 and 1989. In 1986, the line was extended in the southern end till Tollygunj (now Mahanayak Uttam Kumar). The modernization and maintenance of the metros have been hindered at regular intervals due to political events post 1986.

However, as the years passed by the popularity of the metro rails in Kolkata grew phenomenally. Hence, the number of coaches grew with time. Recently, air conditioned coaches have also been introduced. The numbers of trains have been increased. In the office hours the trains ply more frequently compared to the lean hours. The weekdays see more footfall in the metro and therefore the frequency of the trains are higher than the holidays.

Initially manual tickets were sold at the ticket counters. Then the magnetic tickets were introduced to help the metro staff track the errant riders. The gates accepted the magnetic tickets with certain built in checking process. The systems of package rides were introduced. Individuals could purchase tickets and use it for many rides within the stipulated period. Now, there are escalators to provide additional comforts to the metro users.

The stations of the metro railways were previously names according to the locations. In the recent times Madam Mamata Banerjee of Trinamul Congress (who is also the railway minister) has renamed these stations paying ode to the famous personalities of the yesteryears who had made a difference to the country, and especially Bengal.

MAIN FEATURES OF THE METRO RAIL (IN KOLKATA):

The metro systems in Kolkata are complex and imbibe applications of many new technologies. The engineers who are employed to maintain the same have personal expertise and foreign qualifications and experiences. These seasoned and well-trained professionals maintain the metro railways with vim and vigor making use of may new technologies.

• Cut and cover process have been followed in the city making use of the diaphragm walls.
• Shield Tunneling used compressed air as well as airlocks were used.
• The stations are air conditioned. Ventilation system is maintained to control the environment of the stations.
• Transformers (dry categories) and circuit breakers are used.
• Some stations controlled trains by making use of micro-processors.
• Introduction of automatic ticketing systems are on cards.

METRO COACHES EXCLUSIVELY FOR WOMEN:

In the recent times there had been an effort to introduce women’s special coaches in the Kolkata Metro. This did not work out. During the rush hours it was not convenient for people to find which coach was allocated only for the women- leading to unwanted incidents. Also, the men felt it was unfair that the women could get up in any coach as per their preferences, while they had to avoid some coaches. There was also loss of time in searching and getting into or avoiding these coaches. Families found it difficult as the women had to get up in separate coach and the men in others. Boys as young as 10 or 12 years were asked not to board these coaches, separating them from their mothers. It was inevitable that these coaches approach did not work out well.

BENEFITS OF RIDING THE METRO RAILWAYS IN KOLKATA:

• It utilizes one-fifth energy to carry each passenger when compared to other road based transportation systems.
• It generates less noise, nil air pollution and is an environment friendly transportation system.
• It does not occupy any road space in the areas where it is underground.
• In the zones where metro plies above ground, it is usually located on elevated land.
• It is more comfortable, safe and reliable compared to the other transportation systems of the city.
• It generally maintains time.
• Journey is fast and saves time.

THE KOLKATA METRO RAILWAYS PROVIDE:

Better Connectivity: People can travel from Tollygunj to Dumdum (a distance of kilometers) in less than half an hour. Can you imagine such facilities in any of the road transport facilities?

Train Timings: The metro railways in Kolkata maintain proper timings in general. There are trains at frequent intervals so ease out the commute for the users of the metro.

Basic Comfort: Yes, metro railways do provide a lot of comfort but barring the peak hours. If you are riding the metro for pleasure, endure that you do so in the lean hours or holidays.

DEATH TRAP:

It is unfortunate that many people are choosing the metros tracks in Kolkata to end the woes and miseries of their lives. The smooth plying of the rails is hampered on those fateful days when such an incident occurs. Commuters are delayed in their journeys to their destinations which is not at all a good sign. This should come to an end. The high officials of Metro should adopt strict measures to avert such attempts.

Visiting Hyderabad? Behold these Tourist Highlights!

Falaknuma Palace: This was built in 1872 by Nawab Viqar al-Umra. This is an architectural marvel and an opulent palace of the Nizam. The impressive interior has floral architecture. There is a dining table which can seat 100 people. Visitors are allowed to view this palace externally.

Golconda Fort: This is opened between 7 am and 8 pm. This was a major structure during the 16^th century. Diamond was traded in the region. This is a gigantic structure. You will be enriched if you take help of a guide. You need to take tickets to enter. In the surrounding shops you will find glass bangles, and delicacies of the region. The main attraction of the Golconda fort is the light and sound shows held during the evening hours.

Charminar: This consists of four minarets which remain opened from 9 am till 5 pm from Monday till Saturday. However, on Fridays the visits to Charminar between 1 pm and 2 pm is prohibited due to the prayers. This minaret was built by Qutub Quli Shah to pray for the end of an epidemic (plague). The Charminar has been the icon of Hyderabad since long. The towers are 48.7 metres in height. There are 45 prayer spaces in the upper floors. This structure is located in the middle of a busy locale in the old city region of the city.  A majestic view of the city of Hyderabad is available from the top of the minaret. This is one of the most famous attractions of the city.

Salar Jung Museum: The collections of the Salar Jungs or the prime ministers are exhibited here. The collections of the jewelry and garments of the Nizam are on display. Many article of the Islamic era are also in the display. Cameras, large bags, and liquids are not allowed. However, your mobile phones will not be checked if they have cameras in them.

Birla Mandir: The location of the Birla Mandir in Hyderabad is in Adarsh Nagar. You can reach the temple by climbing steps or take another route and go by car. The temple is opened between 10 am and 12 noon and again between 2 pm and 8 pm. The construction is of sparkling white marbles. The location is on Naubat Pahad. This temple of Venkateshwara temple provides a magnificent view of the city.

Shilparamam: This is near the Hi tech city at Madhapur. This is a crafts village at the entrance of the Hi tech city. It aims to preserve the culture and handloom heritage of the past. The sculptures sold here look realistic. Traditional goods are sold. You will find garments, drapes, artifacts, jewels and accessories.  There is a rock museum in the village.

Hussain Sagar Lake (Tank Bund): The necklace road in the Hussain Sagar Lake area is illuminated at night. People visit this picturesque locate in the bustling city for merry-making, especially in the evenings. The lake is a landmark between the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. This was built in 1562 by Ibrahim Qutub Quli Shah on the Musi river. The parks and temples in the surrounding areas are worth visiting. There is a famous statue of Lord Buddha in the middle of the famous lake. This was einstalled in 1992. Boat rides are available. The Lumbini Park in the vicinity is another place to be visited. 

POPULAR PARKS OF HYDERABAD:

• Chacha Nehru Park at Masab Tank is enjoyable for morning walks and visits with kids. Free yoga classes are held in the morning between 5 am and 6 am. There are clubs for exercising and tennis lawns in this park. There is a minimal entry fee to the park.
• Lumbini Park at Necklace road is famous for the laser shows (along-with music) in the evenings. There are stalls of mouthwatering snacks inside the park and gaming venue for kids. There are sufficient parking areas for vehicles inside the park though you need to take tickets. Boating facilities to enchant the visitors are presents.
• Public Gardens (Bagh-e-aam) or garden for the common folks near the State Legislative Assembly has the Jubille Hall, Jawahar Bhavan, Health Museum, as well as the Archeological Museum.
• The Indira Park in the Lower Tank Bund area near Kavadiguda is a sprawling park and has facilities of boating in its ponds. There are food stalls and skating (for kids only) arenas in the park where kids can practice in the evenings of the scheduled days of the week.

Majority of these parks hold educative programs and fairs at regular intervals. The other parks of the city which attracts people are the following:

• Sanjeevaiah Park
• Krishna Kanth Park
• Lotus Pond in the Jubilee Hills
• Botanical Garden at Madhapur
• Nehru Zoological Park
• KBR National Park at the Chiraan Palace
• The Chilkur Wildlife Park
• The Necklace Road is the Chaupati Chowk of Hyderabad.
• The Jalavihar Family Water Park at Necklace Road
• Mahaveer Vanasthali Wildlife Park
• Jalagam Vengal Rao Park at Banjara Hills
• NTR Gardens at Necklace Road (an elite park built in 2000.)
• The Necklace Road is the Chaupati Chowk of Hyderabad.

RELIGIOUS PLACES IN HYDERABAD (AND SECUNDERABAD):

• Sanghi Temple at Hayat Nagar
• ISKCON Temple at Abids
• Mahankali Temple at Laldarwaza (This is the site for the main Bonalu annual procession)
• Peddamma Gudi (Temple) at Jubilee Hills
• Ashtalaksmi temple at Dilsukhnagar
• Ujjaini Mahankali Temple at Secunderabad
• St Joseph’s Cathedral at the Gun Foundry area in Secunderabad
• Hussain Shah Wali Dargah
• Moula Ali Dargah
• Toli Masjid (Karwan)

OTHER PLACES TO VISIT IN HYDERABAD:

• Osman Sagar Dam at Gandipet
• Himayat Sagar
• Durgam Cheruvu of the Secret Lake close to the Hi-Tec City
• Saroornagar Lake (crowded during immersion of Lord Ganesha)
• Shamirpet (24 kilometres from Secunderabad) famous for lake and deer park
• Qutb Shahi Tombs (1 kilometre from the Golconda fort)
• The Nizam’s Museum (behind Princess Durru Shehvar Children’s Hospital)
• Osmania Arts College
• Paigah Tombs (Santoshnagar)
• Purani Haveli, Dewandevdi (Afzalganj)
• Raymond Tomb (Dilsukh Nagar)

 

Direct Taxes in India

What is Direct Tax? The tax paid to the government directly by the tax-payer (like the Capital Gains Tax and the Income Tax) are called Direct Tax. In other words, it can be stated direct tax is taken away from ones salary or wages directly. However, the property tax which is imposed by the government is also called direct tax. In India, the collections which are clubbed under direct taxes are Banking Cash Transaction, Securities Transaction Tax, Personal Income Tax, Corporate Tax and Fringe Benefit Tax. The collections of Direct Taxes in India are increasing smoothly over the years.

Income Tax in India: The income earned during a financial year (April 1^st till March 31^st) is taxable as per the prescribed rates for that year. Here, a resident based tax paying system is followed. The taxes are charged keeping in view the residential status (not citizenship). The categories are resident, resident but not ordinarily resident, and nonresident. In case of Indian sourced income- all the three categories are taxable in India. However, for the foreign sourced income of only the residents are charged. The foreign sourced incomes of the resident but not ordinarily resident and the non-resident are not taxable in India. The Indian companies are always categorized under Indian resident. Moreover, the companies which are controlled from India are also categorized as Indian. The rest of the companies are non-resident.

The Central Board of Direct Taxation (CBDT) takes care of the Direct Taxation in India. The CBDT is a division of revenue which is a part of the Ministry of Finance. It creates and regulates the direct taxes in India. It manages the direct tax law according to the rules of the Income Tax department. The revenue act of 1963 is utilized to govern the proceedings of CBDT.

The tax structure in India is divided amongst the local government, the state government and the central government. The central government charges taxes for income, service tax, central excise and custom duties. The state government charges taxes like professional tax, land revenue, VAT (value added tax), stamp duty and state excise. The civic (local) bodies charge taxes of properties and octroi. The capital gains, tax incentive, corporate and personal income tax also fall under this category.

In India, the following heads of income are taxed:

• Salaries: The payments received for rendering services, wages, pensions, fees, commissions, as well as the taxable amount of all prerequisites are covered under this head. In India, the employers are provided with standard rules for making these deductions. The deduction depends on the salary of the tax-payer.

• The income from a house or property: The income earned by renting out premises for residential or commercial purposes are taxed under this category. There are two prescribed cuttings under this head.

• The profits or gains from any business or profession: The revenue (above a certain limit) generated from business are permissible for deduction under the tax guidelines of India. The revenue expenditures are also taxed under this head following the taxation rules.

• The capital gains: The capital gains which arise from the transfer of the capital assets. The capital assets which are held for 36 months or less are short-term assets. However, the income from shares and securities of 12 months or more are considered to be long-term capitals. The long-term interests have a lower rate of interest.

• The income from other sources: The other sources of incomes cover any income which is not specified under any of the above heads. The expensed incurred while investing for this income is taken into consideration, and tax benefits are provided accordingly.

Changes in the direct tax slabs in India in the budget 2011-12: The exemption limit was increased from 1.6 lakhs to 1.8 lakhs. However because of inflation over 10 percent this has hardly benefited anybody. The minimum age to qualify as a senior citizen has been reduced from 65 to 60. Exemption limit for the senior citizens have been raised from 2.4 lakhs to 2.5 lakhs. The very senior citizens are exempt from paying taxes till the annual income of 5 lakhs. The salaried people need not file return for income tax if TDS is being deducted from their salary. If the tax is directly deducted from the salary then it is direct tax.

Analysis of the tax incidence on different investment tools:

Pays and Perks: The idea of bringing in the government provided accommodation as a part of the salary has been dropped. The perks of government staff will continue as before. The initial draft of the plan was confronted by the salaries class of government servants.

Income Tax Slabs: The draft states that there will be a 10 percent tax for the slab 1.8 lakhs to 10 lakhs, and 20 % for the others.

Home Loans: The government has planned to continue the major tax incentive on the housing loans. The tax payers will get benefit till the loan of 1.5 lakhs per annual but the rental income will be taxed.

Insurance and ULIPs: The new life insurance products do not have any tax proposed. These fall under the exempt-exempt-exempt rule. The new ULIPs issued after DTC can be taxed only after maturity. The existing ones will be relieved from tax only on midway withdrawal and maturity.

Equity Mutual Funds: The long-term capital gain tax on the unit of equity fund is proposed. It is planned to calculate the long-term gain on equity funds and equity only after the deduction of a certain percentage of the capital gains irrespective of any indexation.

Stocks Investment: In stock investment the difference between the long-term and short-term capital gains have been removed. These gains will be considered as income from the ordinary sources and will be taxed accordingly.

Provident Fund: All saving plans (inclusive of the PF’s) will be taxed or deducted at the time of withdrawal. The PPF (public provident fund), (GPF) government provident fund, and pension fall under the EEE benefit.

Furthermore, the pension products also received special facilities.

What is Direct Tax? The tax paid to the government directly by the tax-payer (like the Capital Gains Tax and the Income Tax) are called Direct Tax. In other words, it can be stated direct tax is taken away from ones salary or wages directly. However, the property tax which is imposed by the government is also called direct tax. In India, the collections which are clubbed under direct taxes are Banking Cash Transaction, Securities Transaction Tax, Personal Income Tax, Corporate Tax and Fringe Benefit Tax. The collections of Direct Taxes in India are increasing smoothly over the years.

 

Income Tax in India: The income earned during a financial year (April 1^st till March 31^st) is taxable as per the prescribed rates for that year. Here, a resident based tax paying system is followed. The taxes are charged keeping in view the residential status (not citizenship). The categories are resident, resident but not ordinarily resident, and nonresident. In case of Indian sourced income- all the three categories are taxable in India. However, for the foreign sourced income of only the residents are charged. The foreign sourced incomes of the resident but not ordinarily resident and the non-resident are not taxable in India. The Indian companies are always categorized under Indian resident. Moreover, the companies which are controlled from India are also categorized as Indian. The rest of the companies are non-resident.

 

The Central Board of Direct Taxation (CBDT) takes care of the Direct Taxation in India. The CBDT is a division of revenue which is a part of the Ministry of Finance. It creates and regulates the direct taxes in India. It manages the direct tax law according to the rules of the Income Tax department. The revenue act of 1963 is utilized to govern the proceedings of CBDT.

 

The tax structure in India is divided amongst the local government, the state government and the central government. The central government charges taxes for income, service tax, central excise and custom duties. The state government charges taxes like professional tax, land revenue, VAT (value added tax), stamp duty and state excise. The civic (local) bodies charge taxes of properties and octroi. The capital gains, tax incentive, corporate and personal income tax also fall under this category.

 

In India, the following heads of income are taxed:

• Salaries: The payments received for rendering services, wages, pensions, fees, commissions, as well as the taxable amount of all prerequisites are covered under this head. In India, the employers are provided with standard rules for making these deductions. The deduction depends on the salary of the tax-payer.

 

• The income from a house or property: The income earned by renting out premises for residential or commercial purposes are taxed under this category. There are two prescribed cuttings under this head.

 

• The profits or gains from any business or profession: The revenue (above a certain limit) generated from business are permissible for deduction under the tax guidelines of India. The revenue expenditures are also taxed under this head following the taxation rules.

 

• The capital gains: The capital gains which arise from the transfer of the capital assets. The capital assets which are held for 36 months or less are short-term assets. However, the income from shares and securities of 12 months or more are considered to be long-term capitals. The long-term interests have a lower rate of interest.

• The income from other sources: The other sources of incomes cover any income which is not specified under any of the above heads. The expensed incurred while investing for this income is taken into consideration, and tax benefits are provided accordingly.

 

Changes in the direct tax slabs in India in the budget 2011-12: The exemption limit was increased from 1.6 lakhs to 1.8 lakhs. However because of inflation over 10 percent this has hardly benefited anybody. The minimum age to qualify as a senior citizen has been reduced from 65 to 60. Exemption limit for the senior citizens have been raised from 2.4 lakhs to 2.5 lakhs. The very senior citizens are exempt from paying taxes till the annual income of 5 lakhs. The salaried people need not file return for income tax if TDS is being deducted from their salary. If the tax is directly deducted from the salary then it is direct tax.

 

Analysis of the tax incidence on different investment tools:

 

Pays and Perks: The idea of bringing in the government provided accommodation as a part of the salary has been dropped. The perks of government staff will continue as before. The initial draft of the plan was confronted by the salaries class of government servants.

Income Tax Slabs: The draft states that there will be a 10 percent tax for the slab 1.8 lakhs to 10 lakhs, and 20 % for the others.

Home Loans: The government has planned to continue the major tax incentive on the housing loans. The tax payers will get benefit till the loan of 1.5 lakhs per annual but the rental income will be taxed.

Insurance and ULIPs: The new life insurance products do not have any tax proposed. These fall under the exempt-exempt-exempt rule. The new ULIPs issued after DTC can be taxed only after maturity. The existing ones will be relieved from tax only on midway withdrawal and maturity.

Equity Mutual Funds: The long-term capital gain tax on the unit of equity fund is proposed. It is planned to calculate the long-term gain on equity funds and equity only after the deduction of a certain percentage of the capital gains irrespective of any indexation.

What is Direct Tax? The tax paid to the government directly by the tax-payer (like the Capital Gains Tax and the Income Tax) are called Direct Tax. In other words, it can be stated direct tax is taken away from ones salary or wages directly. However, the property tax which is imposed by the government is also called direct tax. In India, the collections which are clubbed under direct taxes are Banking Cash Transaction, Securities Transaction Tax, Personal Income Tax, Corporate Tax and Fringe Benefit Tax. The collections of Direct Taxes in India are increasing smoothly over the years.

 

Income Tax in India: The income earned during a financial year (April 1^st till March 31^st) is taxable as per the prescribed rates for that year. Here, a resident based tax paying system is followed. The taxes are charged keeping in view the residential status (not citizenship). The categories are resident, resident but not ordinarily resident, and nonresident. In case of Indian sourced income- all the three categories are taxable in India. However, for the foreign sourced income of only the residents are charged. The foreign sourced incomes of the resident but not ordinarily resident and the non-resident are not taxable in India. The Indian companies are always categorized under Indian resident. Moreover, the companies which are controlled from India are also categorized as Indian. The rest of the companies are non-resident.

 

The Central Board of Direct Taxation (CBDT) takes care of the Direct Taxation in India. The CBDT is a division of revenue which is a part of the Ministry of Finance. It creates and regulates the direct taxes in India. It manages the direct tax law according to the rules of the Income Tax department. The revenue act of 1963 is utilized to govern the proceedings of CBDT.

 

The tax structure in India is divided amongst the local government, the state government and the central government. The central government charges taxes for income, service tax, central excise and custom duties. The state government charges taxes like professional tax, land revenue, VAT (value added tax), stamp duty and state excise. The civic (local) bodies charge taxes of properties and octroi. The capital gains, tax incentive, corporate and personal income tax also fall under this category.

 

In India, the following heads of income are taxed:

• Salaries: The payments received for rendering services, wages, pensions, fees, commissions, as well as the taxable amount of all prerequisites are covered under this head. In India, the employers are provided with standard rules for making these deductions. The deduction depends on the salary of the tax-payer.

 

• The income from a house or property: The income earned by renting out premises for residential or commercial purposes are taxed under this category. There are two prescribed cuttings under this head.

 

• The profits or gains from any business or profession: The revenue (above a certain limit) generated from business are permissible for deduction under the tax guidelines of India. The revenue expenditures are also taxed under this head following the taxation rules.

 

• The capital gains: The capital gains which arise from the transfer of the capital assets. The capital assets which are held for 36 months or less are short-term assets. However, the income from shares and securities of 12 months or more are considered to be long-term capitals. The long-term interests have a lower rate of interest.

• The income from other sources: The other sources of incomes cover any income which is not specified under any of the above heads. The expensed incurred while investing for this income is taken into consideration, and tax benefits are provided accordingly.

 

Changes in the direct tax slabs in India in the budget 2011-12: The exemption limit was increased from 1.6 lakhs to 1.8 lakhs. However because of inflation over 10 percent this has hardly benefited anybody. The minimum age to qualify as a senior citizen has been reduced from 65 to 60. Exemption limit for the senior citizens have been raised from 2.4 lakhs to 2.5 lakhs. The very senior citizens are exempt from paying taxes till the annual income of 5 lakhs. The salaried people need not file return for income tax if TDS is being deducted from their salary. If the tax is directly deducted from the salary then it is direct tax.

 

Analysis of the tax incidence on different investment tools:

 

Pays and Perks: The idea of bringing in the government provided accommodation as a part of the salary has been dropped. The perks of government staff will continue as before. The initial draft of the plan was confronted by the salaries class of government servants.

Income Tax Slabs: The draft states that there will be a 10 percent tax for the slab 1.8 lakhs to 10 lakhs, and 20 % for the others.

Home Loans: The government has planned to continue the major tax incentive on the housing loans. The tax payers will get benefit till the loan of 1.5 lakhs per annual but the rental income will be taxed.

Insurance and ULIPs: The new life insurance products do not have any tax proposed. These fall under the exempt-exempt-exempt rule. The new ULIPs issued after DTC can be taxed only after maturity. The existing ones will be relieved from tax only on midway withdrawal and maturity.

Equity Mutual Funds: The long-term capital gain tax on the unit of equity fund is proposed. It is planned to calculate the long-term gain on equity funds and equity only after the deduction of a certain percentage of the capital gains irrespective of any indexation.

What is Direct Tax? The tax paid to the government directly by the tax-payer (like the Capital Gains Tax and the Income Tax) are called Direct Tax. In other words, it can be stated direct tax is taken away from ones salary or wages directly. However, the property tax which is imposed by the government is also called direct tax. In India, the collections which are clubbed under direct taxes are Banking Cash Transaction, Securities Transaction Tax, Personal Income Tax, Corporate Tax and Fringe Benefit Tax. The collections of Direct Taxes in India are increasing smoothly over the years.

 

Income Tax in India: The income earned during a financial year (April 1^st till March 31^st) is taxable as per the prescribed rates for that year. Here, a resident based tax paying system is followed. The taxes are charged keeping in view the residential status (not citizenship). The categories are resident, resident but not ordinarily resident, and nonresident. In case of Indian sourced income- all the three categories are taxable in India. However, for the foreign sourced income of only the residents are charged. The foreign sourced incomes of the resident but not ordinarily resident and the non-resident are not taxable in India. The Indian companies are always categorized under Indian resident. Moreover, the companies which are controlled from India are also categorized as Indian. The rest of the companies are non-resident.

 

The Central Board of Direct Taxation (CBDT) takes care of the Direct Taxation in India. The CBDT is a division of revenue which is a part of the Ministry of Finance. It creates and regulates the direct taxes in India. It manages the direct tax law according to the rules of the Income Tax department. The revenue act of 1963 is utilized to govern the proceedings of CBDT.

 

The tax structure in India is divided amongst the local government, the state government and the central government. The central government charges taxes for income, service tax, central excise and custom duties. The state government charges taxes like professional tax, land revenue, VAT (value added tax), stamp duty and state excise. The civic (local) bodies charge taxes of properties and octroi. The capital gains, tax incentive, corporate and personal income tax also fall under this category.

 

In India, the following heads of income are taxed:

• Salaries: The payments received for rendering services, wages, pensions, fees, commissions, as well as the taxable amount of all prerequisites are covered under this head. In India, the employers are provided with standard rules for making these deductions. The deduction depends on the salary of the tax-payer.

 

• The income from a house or property: The income earned by renting out premises for residential or commercial purposes are taxed under this category. There are two prescribed cuttings under this head.

 

• The profits or gains from any business or profession: The revenue (above a certain limit) generated from business are permissible for deduction under the tax guidelines of India. The revenue expenditures are also taxed under this head following the taxation rules.

 

• The capital gains: The capital gains which arise from the transfer of the capital assets. The capital assets which are held for 36 months or less are short-term assets. However, the income from shares and securities of 12 months or more are considered to be long-term capitals. The long-term interests have a lower rate of interest.

• The income from other sources: The other sources of incomes cover any income which is not specified under any of the above heads. The expensed incurred while investing for this income is taken into consideration, and tax benefits are provided accordingly.

 

Changes in the direct tax slabs in India in the budget 2011-12: The exemption limit was increased from 1.6 lakhs to 1.8 lakhs. However because of inflation over 10 percent this has hardly benefited anybody. The minimum age to qualify as a senior citizen has been reduced from 65 to 60. Exemption limit for the senior citizens have been raised from 2.4 lakhs to 2.5 lakhs. The very senior citizens are exempt from paying taxes till the annual income of 5 lakhs. The salaried people need not file return for income tax if TDS is being deducted from their salary. If the tax is directly deducted from the salary then it is direct tax.

 

Analysis of the tax incidence on different investment tools:

 

Pays and Perks: The idea of bringing in the government provided accommodation as a part of the salary has been dropped. The perks of government staff will continue as before. The initial draft of the plan was confronted by the salaries class of government servants.

Income Tax Slabs: The draft states that there will be a 10 percent tax for the slab 1.8 lakhs to 10 lakhs, and 20 % for the others.

Home Loans: The government has planned to continue the major tax incentive on the housing loans. The tax payers will get benefit till the loan of 1.5 lakhs per annual but the rental income will be taxed.

Insurance and ULIPs: The new life insurance products do not have any tax proposed. These fall under the exempt-exempt-exempt rule. The new ULIPs issued after DTC can be taxed only after maturity. The existing ones will be relieved from tax only on midway withdrawal and maturity.

Equity Mutual Funds: The long-term capital gain tax on the unit of equity fund is proposed. It is planned to calculate the long-term gain on equity funds and equity only after the deduction of a certain percentage of the capital gains irrespective of any indexation.

Stocks Investment: In stock investment the difference between the long-term and short-term capital gains have been removed. These gains will be considered as income from the ordinary sources and will be taxed accordingly.

Provident Fund: All saving plans (inclusive of the PF’s) will be taxed or deducted at the time of withdrawal. The PPF (public provident fund), (GPF) government provident fund, and pension fall under the EEE benefit.

Furthermore, the pension products also received special facilities.

 

Stocks Investment: In stock investment the difference between the long-term and short-term capital gains have been removed. These gains will be considered as income from the ordinary sources and will be taxed accordingly.

Provident Fund: All saving plans (inclusive of the PF’s) will be taxed or deducted at the time of withdrawal. The PPF (public provident fund), (GPF) government provident fund, and pension fall under the EEE benefit.

Furthermore, the pension products also received special facilities.

 

Stocks Investment: In stock investment the difference between the long-term and short-term capital gains have been removed. These gains will be considered as income from the ordinary sources and will be taxed accordingly.

Provident Fund: All saving plans (inclusive of the PF’s) will be taxed or deducted at the time of withdrawal. The PPF (public provident fund), (GPF) government provident fund, and pension fall under the EEE benefit.

Furthermore, the pension products also received special facilities.

 

How can we be Eco-friendly on the day of Holi?

In India, the festival of Holi is a time for merry-making. It is celebrated in the end of February or March (as per the lunar calendar). The climate is pleasant all over the country (India) during this time of the year. Even the nature is blessed with bounty of colors. In this favorable ambience Holi brings happiness to one and all. The message of brotherhood is spread all over the country.

Use of colors in Holi: India is a country of variety. However, there is unity amongst diversity. Though different regions of the country celebrate Holi in unique ways- there are certain common elements. Colors are used all over the country in either dry or liquid forms. People smear or splash colors on each other to bring out the best of the festival. But did you ever hear from any of your near and dear one that these colors may contain harmful chemicals. At times, the media cautions the users of the negative effects of the colors of joy.

In the bygone eras colors made with natural ingredients were used. But now-a-days this festival, like any other festival has been commercialized by many business minded individuals. It is inevitable that the colors used (and even the sweets and savories) include a lot of artificial ingredients harmful for us. Well, the colors of Holi may make you happy but may harm your skin or other parts of body. Now, you surely do not want this to happen to you or anybody you love. Do you? Let us delve into the depth of this matter and see what we can do to remove the evil of the usage of these colors, and yet not spoil the fun of the festival by a bit.

In the current times people buy colors from small time traders on road side. So, you can very well imagine the contamination in these colors. Sometimes these boxes cleverly conceal the view of the warning ‘for industrial use only’ to hoodwink the buyers.

The chemicals which (in general) are used to manufacture the colors and their negative effects: The color Black consists of Lead Oxide and may lead to Renal Failure. The Green color has Copper Sulphate and may result in Eye Allergy, temporary Blindness and puffiness of eyes. Silver color consists of Aluminium Bromide and may lead to Carcinogenic problems. The color Blue may lead to Dermitis. Red color has Mercury Sulphate and is highly toxic. It may lead to Skin Cancer. Gulal (or dry colors) may lead to health problems because it consists of Asbestos and Silica. The heavy metal in this mixture may lead to Skin Diseases or Asthma. The wet colors comprise of Gentian Violet and may cause Skin Discoloration and Dermitis.

How to prepare natural colors? You can use kitchen ingredients to prepare the colors. For getting yellow color you can mix turmeric (haldi) powder and chick pea (besan) flour. Another process of getting the yellow color is by boiling Marigold flowers in water. You can get yellow liquid color by soaking peels of Pomegranate (or Anar) overnight. You can get deep pink color by soaking beetroot in water. The henna leaves which we use to color our hands, feet or hair can be used to produce reddish orange color.

What if you cannot prepare your own natural colors? Well, you may not have the time or patience to prepare your own colors to use in Holi. Do not worry- there are options of buying these natural colors from several environmental groups. These are promoted by many organizations with a view for benefiting mankind as well as nature. You will be informed regarding the source of the colors to give you confidence to use them (and pay a bit more price).

Ventures to aid the preparation and use of natural colors: Navdanya (Delhi) has published a book and spoke of biodiversity which is the source of natural colors in a book named ‘Abir Gulal’. Delhi based Development Alternatives and Pune based Kalpavriksh has created educational tools for teaching children how to make their Holi colors using natural ingredients. Then there was CLEAN India campaign involving children. In this campaign the younglings learnt how to use natural items and produce beautiful colors.

The Holi Bonfire: It has been scientifically proved that the fuel burning during the ‘Holika Dahan’ process creates imbalance in the environment. Tons of wood are wasted in this way causing harm to the natural resources. The numbers of bonfires are also innumerable. This is of course a matter of concern. The smoke given out of these bonfires are very harmful for the animals and plants. Social groups like Sadvichar Parivar are encouraging the usage of community bonfire instead of bonfires in every nook and corners of the streets. Some other groups are motivating people to use waste material instead of wood.

Can we reduce the waste of water during Holi? Presently our planet is facing severe crisis of water. This water shortage is leading us to ponder about the future generations of the planet. Not only human beings but also the plants require water for survival. Buckets of (colored) water are thrown at each other during Holi. The colors of Holi are mixed using water. This is leading to severe shortage of water in some urban areas. Many people have to survive without supply of water for many days. Considering all these problems- it is advisable that we play a dry Holi using natural colors. It maybe initially difficult to accept the change but considering the long-term rewards we surely can try out this avenue to save water.

Can India face the quakes? No place for complacency!

Recently, the most technologically advanced nation of the world, Japan got hit by an earthquake that measured 8.9 on the Richter scale. Post this incident there have many assurances from Manmohan Singh, the Prime Minister of India towards the fact that nuclear plants in India are safe owing to the fact that they are not close to the geological faults generating earthquakes and tsunamis; despite this, the leading geologists in India have voiced their concern regarding this similar kind of threats and India’s preparedness to tackle the kind of devastating situation as in Japan.

A well-known geologist at the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research located at Bangalore, K.S. Valdiya is among those who think that complacence will definitely be harmful. He also said that had the tsunami of 2004 happened from near the Andaman Islands, and not Sumatra, it would have lashed the eastern coast of India with greater ferocity.

Several earthquakes capable of generating tsunamis have originated near the Andaman Islands and it cannot be guaranteed that such huge events won’t be taking place in future.

As per the latest works of K.S. Valdiya, the “lineaments” identified by the field work and remote sensing along the west coasts of states like Kerala, Karnataka and Maharashtra “are actually geological faults” that have the potential capability of causing earthquakes. While some of the faults are inert, some on the other hand are active and locked as well that is without any movement.

Valdiya also added further that

“one cannot simply locate nuclear plants on the basis of today’s hazard zoning map that is based on past occurrences of earthquakes………Just because a fault has not been identified, it doesn’t mean the fault does not exist”.

Valdiya’s work has also come up with detection of a seismic “hotspot” near the Indo-Gangetic plain, which should be addressed.

As per C.P. Rajendran from the Centre for Earth Sciences at the Indian Institute of Science located in Bangalore, India has the biggest threat of earthquake from the Himalayan region. To quote him:

“One of our major concerns should be the 2,500-km long Himalayan plate boundary that extends from the northwest to northeast, a zone that hosts potential fault lines that could generate both large and great earthquakes (magnitude-7 and above).”

There are several gaps Himalayan axis such as the central Himalayas, which have been quiet from a long time and might generate earthquakes in future. There are seismic gaps also in the northeast Himalayas. Rajendran believes that the geologists in India should take motivation from the Japanese disaster and the 2010 earthquake in Haiti and thereby check out India’s preparedness to handle earthquake-related calamities.

He also added:

“We need to focus both on the earthquake engineering and on the scientific research of the earthquake processes.”

A senior geologist at NGRI that is National Geophysical Research Institute located in Hyderabad, Vineet Gahalaut also agreed to this saying:

“The Japan region is the best instrumented region in the world and even there this earthquake occurred as a surprise……We need to improve our understanding of the earthquake occurrence processes. We need more instrumental data”.

Though there are less chances of India facing the threat of an earthquake so big in magnitude yet there are complete chances of earthquake measuring 6 or above in the Richter scale looming over different regions in the country.

The whole India has been categorized into 4 seismic zones, 2, 3, 4 and 5, according to the sensitivity of the region to quakes. Zone 5 consists of areas with earthquake threats measuring about 9 in the Richter scale. Zone 4 consists of quake threats measuring 8to 9 on the Richter scale while Zone 3 comprises of earthquakes in between 6to 8 on the Richter scale. In terms of quake threats, about 65% of India comes under zone 3. About 17 states and 169 districts in India have been announced to be sensitive to earthquakes.

Delhi falls under zone 4. The situation in Delhi is so grave that if an earthquake takes place in the region, lakhs of houses can get destroyed. In the year it was made mandatory for the houses being established in the capital city to use anti-earthquake techniques. Unfortunately, it has always been ignored. Similar situations can be found in case of other cities in India as well. About 80% of the population in Delhi is located in irregular colonies and slums constructed without the recommendations from the engineer. Hence it is very obvious that these houses have not been created as per the earthquake situation tackling norms.

Professor S Mukherjee in this regard has pointed out the fact that many localities in Kolkata and Delhi have more than 2 lakh people residing in every square kilometer. Hence in case of earthquakes there are possibilities of heavy casualties.

The most unfortunate fact in India is that the inadequacy in the infrastructure often mars the entire relief measures and procedures in India. In times of disasters, more people die because of the lack in the basic infrastructure. With a ratio of 0.7:1000, India is not even able to provide with a single bed for every 1000 people in the country. Further approximately only a single doctor is available for every 1722 patients in the country.

Scarcity of money or funds is yet another huge problem that is plaguing the Indian system.

When asked if the geologists in India are ready to face similar earthquakes as that of Japan, “No” was the answer that came form Vineet Gahalaut, the senior geologist at the National Geophysical Research Institute (NGRI). He pointed out that:

“The biggest problem is the implementation of building codes and lack of public awareness…….When death toll and economic losses in such a technologically advanced country like Japan may reach so high, imagine a country like India, where there is no law on building codes and almost no public awareness.”

According to the ex-director of NGRI and also the famous seismologist, Vinod Gaur, earthquake or threats from tsunami are surely technologically manageable. Nevertheless, “India’s record of managing even low-intensity hazards is dismal”

Can India face the quakes? No place for complacency! Where it is that India lacks the most; lack of determination or careless attitude on the part of the Government of India, less awareness among the public, lack of fund or inadequate infrastructure? This is a million dollar question that would keep lingering in our minds!

Folk Dances in North India: Experience the Mystical Diversity!

Rich history is what we think of, when we talk about the northern part of India! North India has been home to many kingdoms like Gupta, Maurya, Mughal and British Indian Empires. This resulted in the introduction of diverse culture into the region. This variety and diversity of customs and traditions reflects beautifully in the North Indian Dances.

A beautiful combination of mythological elements and narrative forms, the folk dances in North India are amazingly exquisite. There is a dance for almost every occasion. Some of the North India folk dances have a ritualistic nature and are performed during the harvest time. The Bhangra dance of Punjab is a dance, which is performed during the harvest time. Other such dances that mark the beginning of harvest seasons and cultivation are Hurka Baul in Uttar Pradesh and Dhamyal of Haryana.

Besides these harvest dances, there are other colorful folk and tribal dances as well. These include Dumhal dance performed by the Wattal tribe in Kashmir, Namagen of Himachal Pradesh, Nati dance of Himachal Pradesh, Jhumeila and the Chaunfla of Garhwal etc. Each of the folk dances in North India is unique and exquisite in its own way. The costumes of each of these folk dances amazingly highlight the tradition, culture, taste and festivity of a wide segment of people in the northern region of India. Folk Dances in North India: Experience the Mystical Diversity through these following folk dances:

Bhangra, Luddi and Gidha (Punjab)

One of the energetic and popular Indian Folk Dances is Bhangra. It is performed by males usually. Originating in the state of Punjab, the dance is quite popular during the Punjabi festival, Baisakhi. One of the captivating folk dances of Punjab, Bhangra includes athletic feats and interesting tricks. During the performance the dancers dressed in turbans and lungis surround the drummer.

Yet another beautiful Punjabi folk dance is Luddi performed by the men folk. The dance is performed for celebrating victory. The movements of the snakes are copied in this particular dance.

Gidha is the dance executed by the women folk in Punjab. Either a woman or a pair of women dancers dance away to glory as others surround them and clap in perfect rhythm. This dance is generally performed at the time of the Teeyan festival for welcoming the monsoons.

Dumhal (Jammu & Kashmir)

Dumhal is a beautiful Kashmiri folk dance. It is performed with the help of colorful, long robes and tall conical caps that are studded with shells and beads. Songs provide company to the dancers of the Dumhal dance, wherein the dancers themselves sing the songs.  One of the interesting features of this dance is that, the performers position at a particular location, a banner on the ground and then around that banner they start to men dance.

Namagen (Himachal Pradesh)

The autumnal hue in the state of Himachal Pradesh is celebrated in the month of September through the performance of the Namagen dance. The costumes in this particular dance form are generally woolen. Apart form this, the women also wear heavy silver ornaments, during the dance.

Hurka Baul (Uttaranchal)

Some of the popular seasonal dances in Uttaranchal are Jhumeila, the Hurka Baul of Kumaon and the Chaunfla of Garhwal. Hurka Baul folk dance of Uttranchal is performed at the time of maize and paddy cultivation. On a specific day, post the preliminary ritual, Hurka Baul is performed in various fields, turn by turn. This particular dance has derived its name from the word hurka that represents the drum. The drum provides the dance with the sole musical accompaniment apart from the baul that is the song. There is a singer who narrates stories of heroic deeds and battles, while the players are seen entering from 2 opposite sides and enacting the stories through a sequence of crisp and fine movements. The farmers are found to form 2 rows and then move backwards in harmony, by responding to the rhythm and the tune of the song.

Chholiya is yet another popular dance belonging to the Kumaon region in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It is generally performed at the time of marriages. With the procession proceeding towards the bride’s house, the male dancers arm themselves in swords and shields and dance vivaciously.

Hikat (Himachal Pradesh)

Hikat is a famous folk dance of Himachal Pradesh that is performed by the women in the region. It is executed in pairs wherein the dancers extend their arms to their front and also hold the wrists of each other. The bodies of the dancers are kept inclined towards the back. The dancers keep on making rounds of the same place. Since Himachal Pradeh is a land of festivity and celebration, this dance also forms a part of that same festivity.

Dhamyal and Lahoor (Haryana)

Dhamyal, also known as Duph, is a folk dance of Haryana. The dance is performed either by men alone or along with women as well. Duph means a circular drum that is played by the male dancers, lightly, during the dance. During the spring season in Haryana, its time for celebration, just after the harvest and field work has been completed. This dance forms a part of this celebration.

Lahoor is a dance that is performed by females. It is accompanied by songs that are phrased with witty questions and replies.

Dandiya (Rajasthan)

This is a popular dance form in the magical land of Rajasthan and a well-known folk dance in India. In this particular Rajasthan folk dance, the dancers are seen forming group with slim, long sticks in every hand. The dancers dance in rhythm by striking these sticks to each other’s. It is a beautiful dance to watch, full of chants and energy. There is a drummer who stays right in the center and keeps playing particular tunes from time to time. Dandiya is usually performed during ceremonial events or essential festivals. The dancers put on their gorgeous Rajasthani out-fit.

World Heritage Sites in India: Past weaves memorable stories!

Acknowledged by UNESCO that is United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, there are at present 28 World Heritage Sites in India. According to the UNESCO World Heritage Convention that came into existence in 1972, the World Heritage Sites are locations of cultural significance or natural heritage. The Convention related to the preservation of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage was acquired on 17^th of November 1997 after the General Conference of the UNESCO that took place from 17^th October 1972 to 21^st November 1972.

Among the many states of India, Tamil Nadu boasts of the maximum number of World Heritage Sites in India. Over the time, 26 heritage sites more have been identified. Among the 28 World Heritage Sites present in India, 5 are natural sites while 23 are cultural sites. At the World Heritage Sites in India: Past weaves memorable stories for sure. To be at these sites is definitely an experience in itself!

Kaziranga Wild Life Sanctuary, Assam

Situated in the North east state of Assam, the Kaziranga Wild Life Sanctuary was declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in the year 1985 for the exclusive natural environment that supports a wide variety of mammals and birds. It was established 1^st in 1908 as a reserved forest for protecting the endangered species of Rhinoceros. Later declared as a National Park, the Kaziranga Wild Life Sanctuary boasts of being the home to largest number of Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros.

Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya, Bihar

Sprawling over an area of about 4.86 hectares, the Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya (Buddha Gaya), came into the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites as one of the unique properties of archaeological and cultural significance. Revered as the site wherein Gautama Buddha got enlightenment in 531 BC, the temple has been the ultimate place for reverential worship for the Buddhists from across the world.

Manas Wild Life Sanctuary, Assam

Located in the state of Assam, the Manas Wildlife Sanctuary sprawls over 50,000 hectares of area, on the plains of the Manas River, at the Himalayan foothills. The sanctuary came to feature in the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in the year 1985 for its distinctive natural environment. The sanctuary is home to several varieties of plants, 21 endangered species of mammals among the total of 55, 3 amphibians, 36 reptile species and 350 species of birds. The habitat includes animals such as pygmy hog, clouded leopard, Tiger, sloth bear, wild buffaloes, Indian Rhinoceros, golden langur, Indian Elephants and Bengal Florican.

Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi

The first ever tomb established with certain innovations was the Humayun’s Tomb, which was the ancestral monument to the famous Taj Mahal that was constructed a century later. Coming into existence in 1570, the tomb came to be inscribed as one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Monument in the year 1993 for its cultural significance. The tomb is built in typical architectural style of the Mughal period and all credit goes to Mirza Ghiyath. The double domed elevation of the tomb with Chhatris, got the tomb to be hailed as the “nacropolis of the Mughal dynasty” Along with the tomb of Humayun, there are also 150 tombs at the funerary meant for the other members of the regal family.

Red Fort Complex

Also known as Lal Qila, the Red Fort Complex happens to be a palace fort constructed during the 17^th century by the Mughal Emperor, Shahjahan, as part of the city of Shahjahanabad, his new capital. Situated in the north of Delhi, the fort depicts the glory of the Mughal reign and is considered a great example of the Mughal architectural splendor and the artistic creativity.

Churches and Convents of Goa

In the year 1986, UNESCO identified the Churches and Convents of Goa as one of the World Heritage Cultural Properties. There were brought into existence by the Portuguese rulers based in Goa and the Catholic Missions in between 16^th– 18^th century! The most popular and significant among these is the Church of Bom Jesus that shrines the tomb of St. Francis-Xavier. These monuments in Goa are also known as the “Rome of the Orient”.

Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi

Situated in the south of Delhi, the Qutb Minar and its monuments happen to be a complex structure established during the 13^th century. The Qutb Minar is the centre piece tower made of red sandstone with a height of 72.5 meters. The monuments underwent renovations by successive rulers. Owing to its unique and amazing representation of the architectural style and artistic splendor of the Islamic period, it was counted in the World Heritage List by UNESCO.

Group of Monuments at Hampi

The Group of Monuments located at Hampi received the admiration of the tourists during the 14th and 16th century. It is also a part of UNESCO’s cultural heritage site. Hampi has been a major Hindu religious destination, with the Virupaksha Temple and other monuments also forming a part of the heritage site.

Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh

Situated at a distance of 45 km from Bhopal, in the state of Madhya Pradesh, the Buddhist Monuments at Sanchi dates back to 200 BC and 100BC. On 24^th January, 1989, UNESCO identified these monuments as a part of its cultural heritage list for its exceptional cultural value. The monuments came to be discovered in the year 1818, in a condition to be preserved.

Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park, Gujarat

Located in the Panchmahal district of Gujarat, the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park got its status of a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in the year 2004 as one of the natural sites.

Rock Shelters of Bhimbetka, Madhya Pradesh

This UNESCO World Heritage Site in India was inscribed by the UNESCO as “the site complex … a magnificent repository of rock paintings within natural rock shelters”. It is situated in the foothills of the Vindya Mountains in Madhya Pradesh. The rock shelters were discovered in the year 1957. It consists of a group of “five clusters of rock shelters” with Mesolithic period paintings.

Ajanta Caves

One of the popular World Heritage Sites in India happens to be the Ajanta Caves which are actually Buddhist caves constructed in 2 phases. The first phase started from 2^nd century BC and in the 2^nd phase, several additions were incorporated during the fifth and sixth century AD of the Gupta reign.

Ellora Caves

Also known as the Ellora Complex, the Ellora Caves are a cultural combination of the religious arts of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. 34 monasteries and temples have been sculpted closely into rock walls that can be seen along an average length of 2 km. Dating back to 600 to 1000 AD, the caves are a manifestation of the artistic creativity of the earliest civilization in India. The Ellora Caves has been counted under the World Heritage site of UNESCO as a cultural property.

Kajuraho Group of Monuments, Madhya Pradesh

Belonging to the Chandela Dynasty, the Khajuraho Group of Monuments in Madhya Pradesh reached its fame and grandeur, in between 950 AD and 1050 AD. UNESCO recognized these monuments into its list of World Heritage Sites on 15^th October, 1982, as one of the cultural properties, having an original artistic creativity.

Elephanta Caves

A sequence of sculpted caves, the Elephanta Caves is situated on the Elephanta Island, or Gharapuri (this literally means “the city of caves”) in the city of Mumbai. The caves were announced as one of India’s World Heritage Sites in the 1970s mainly to conserve the artwork.

Sun Temple, Konarak

The Sun Temple at Konark dates back to the 13th-century and is also referred as the “Black Pagoda”. It is located at Konark, in the state of Orissa. This popular temple of India got its World Heritage Status in the year 1984 under the category of Cultural Property.

Keoladeo National Park

The Keoladeo National Park in the state of Rajasthan is situated within the Indus-Ganges Monsoon Forest Biogeographical Province. In 1985 the national park was announced as a World Heritage Site as a natural property.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Victoria Terminus)

Earlier known as the Victoria Terminus, the Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is Mumbai’s historic rail station, serving as the headquarters for the Central Railways. UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee nominated the station as a World Heritage Site on 2^nd July, 2004.

Jantar Mantar, Jaipur

The Jantar Mantar located in Jaipur is an assortment of the architectural astronomical instruments, made up by Maharaja (King) Jai Singh II between the period 1727 and 1734. The UNESCO listed it as one of the World Heritage Sites of India and described it as “an expression of the astronomical skills and cosmological concepts of the court of a scholarly prince at the end of the Mughal period”.

Group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram

The Group of Monuments is located at Mahabalipuram, in the state of Tamilnadu. It is around 58 km from the city of Chennai and was constructed by the Pallava kings during the 7th and 8th centuries. In 1984, the monuments were declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Agra Fort, Uttar Pradesh

Representing the Mughal power and opulence at its best, the Agra Fort, also called as the Red Fort of Agra, came to be designated as a World Heritage Site in the year 1982, as one of the cultural monuments.

Great Living Chola Temples

The Great Living Chola Temples constructed by the Chola Kings stretches across Tamil Nadu. This cultural World Heritage Site consists of 3 great temples from 11th and 12th century, the Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikondacholisvaram, the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram. The site was announced as a World Heritage Site of UNESCO in the year 2004.

Taj Mahal, Uttar Pradesh

One of the 7 wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal in India is a popular funerary mosque established by Emperor Shahjahan for his wife Begum Mumtaz Mahal. In the year 1983, it was designated as one of the UNESCO world Heritage Sites, under the category of cultural property or monument.

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks

Nanda Devi and Valley of Flowers National Parks nestled within the Western Himalayas is known for its captivating natural beauty and the beautiful meadows of alpine flowers. Originally built up on 7^th January 1939 as a game sanctuary, it came to be established as a national park on November 6 1982. It got the status of a World Heritage Site in the year 1988

Mountain Railways of India

The Mountain Railways of India represent a collection of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, the Kalka-Shimla Railway and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway under the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sundarbans National Park

World’s largest mangrove forest, the Sundarbans National Park, Tiger Reserve, is an UNESCO World Heritage Site and also a Biosphere Reserve situated in the Sundarbans in West Bengal. It came to be featured on the UNESCO World Heritage list in the year 1987 as one of the natural properties. The Sundarbans was declared as the Tiger Reserve in the year 1973 and in 1977, as a wildlife sanctuary. This dense region is covered with mangrove forests all through out. The Sundarban National Park happens to be 1 of the largest reserves for the Royal Bengal Tigers. It is home to large variety of birds, invertebrate species, salt-water crocodile, reptiles and of course the Royal Bengal Tigers.

Group of Monuments at Pattadakal

The Group of monuments in Pattadakal came under the UNESCO World Heritage List, in the year 1987. The monument covers an outstanding series of 9 Hindu temples along with a Jain sanctuary. Of this excellent group of temples, the exceptional architectural edifice is the Virupaksha Temple, built by Queen Lokamahadevi to honor the victory of her husband over the kings from south. The monuments are magnificent combination of the temples constructed during the Chalukya Dynasty in sixth century at Badami, Aihole, and Pattadakal. The temples are an excellent fusion of the architectural splendors from both South India and North India.