General Affairs
PM Narendra Modi Gifts Saudi King Gold Replica Of Kerala Mosque
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RIYADH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today gifted King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud a gold-plated replica of the Cheraman Juma Masjid in Kerala.
Situated in Thrissur district, the Cheraman Juma Masjid is believed to be the first mosque built in India by Arab traders around 629 AD, and symbolic of active trade relations between India and Saudi Arabia since ancient times, an official statement about the gift said.
According to oral tradition, Cheraman Perumal was the Chera king and a contemporary of the Holy Prophet who went to Arabia and embraced Islam after meeting the Holy Prophet at Makkah.
Some years later, he sent letters to his relatives and the ruling chieftains of Malabar through his friends Malik bin Dinar and Malik bin Habib who, along with their companions, were then given permission by the local rulers to build the mosque at Kodungallur.
The mosque has an ancient oil lamp that is always kept burning and is believed to be over a thousand years old. People from all religions bring oil for the lamp as an offering.
King Salman today received PM Modi and his delegation at the Royal Court in Riyadh.
"A truly Royal welcome. PM @narendramodi is welcomed by His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud at the Palace," External Affairs Ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup tweeted.
The Saudi monarch is hosting a lunch in honour of the visiting prime minister. This will be followed by delegation-level talks and signing of agreements.
RIYADH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi today gifted King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud a gold-plated replica of the Cheraman Juma Masjid in Kerala.Situated in Thrissur district, the Cheraman Juma Masjid is believed to be the first mosque built in India by Arab traders around 629 AD, and symbolic of active trade relations between India and Saudi Arabia since ancient times, an official statement about the gift said.
According to oral tradition, Cheraman Perumal was the Chera king and a contemporary of the Holy Prophet who went to Arabia and embraced Islam after meeting the Holy Prophet at Makkah.
Some years later, he sent letters to his relatives and the ruling chieftains of Malabar through his friends Malik bin Dinar and Malik bin Habib who, along with their companions, were then given permission by the local rulers to build the mosque at Kodungallur.
The mosque has an ancient oil lamp that is always kept burning and is believed to be over a thousand years old. People from all religions bring oil for the lamp as an offering.
King Salman today received PM Modi and his delegation at the Royal Court in Riyadh.
"A truly Royal welcome. PM @narendramodi is welcomed by His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud at the Palace," External Affairs Ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup tweeted.
The Saudi monarch is hosting a lunch in honour of the visiting prime minister. This will be followed by delegation-level talks and signing of agreements.
Surjya Kanta Mishra To Be Face Of Congress-Left Alliance In West Bengal
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KOLKATA: The CPI(M)'s West Bengal unit secretary Surjya Kanta Mishra would be the leader if the Congress-Left Front alliance emerges victorious in the Assembly polls, former state Congress president Manas Bhunia said today.
Jointly campaigning in Narayangarh in West Midnapore district, both Mr Mishra and Mr Bhunia exuded confidence of the tie-up achieving its target of ousting the "despotic" Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress from power.
"I have already declared it that if the Left democratic force comes to power, Surjya Kanta Mishra will be its leader," said Mr Bhunia, a day ahead of the first of the six-phase elections for 294 Assembly seats.
So far, both the Congress as well as the Communist Party of India-Marxist spearheaded Left Front have remained evasive in declaring their chief ministerial candidate.
Targeting the Banerjee regime, Mr Mishra, who is also Leader of Opposition, exuded confidence of the Congress-Left tie-up bearing fruit.
"Such has been her tormenting ways that a massive alliance of people has taken shape. Nobody prefers to be on her side, even her own men are leaving her. This is definitely the chief minister's biggest achievement," said Mr Mishra.
KOLKATA: The CPI(M)'s West Bengal unit secretary Surjya Kanta Mishra would be the leader if the Congress-Left Front alliance emerges victorious in the Assembly polls, former state Congress president Manas Bhunia said today.Jointly campaigning in Narayangarh in West Midnapore district, both Mr Mishra and Mr Bhunia exuded confidence of the tie-up achieving its target of ousting the "despotic" Mamata Banerjee-led Trinamool Congress from power.
"I have already declared it that if the Left democratic force comes to power, Surjya Kanta Mishra will be its leader," said Mr Bhunia, a day ahead of the first of the six-phase elections for 294 Assembly seats.
So far, both the Congress as well as the Communist Party of India-Marxist spearheaded Left Front have remained evasive in declaring their chief ministerial candidate.
Targeting the Banerjee regime, Mr Mishra, who is also Leader of Opposition, exuded confidence of the Congress-Left tie-up bearing fruit.
"Such has been her tormenting ways that a massive alliance of people has taken shape. Nobody prefers to be on her side, even her own men are leaving her. This is definitely the chief minister's biggest achievement," said Mr Mishra.
Puducherry's Independent Legislator Sivakumar Joins AIADMK
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CHENNAI: AIADMK today got a shot in its arm in poll-bound Puducherry as independent legislator VMC Sivakumar who had extended his support to the AINRC government there, joined the party in presence of its general secretary J Jayalalithaa.
Besides Mr Sivakumar, senior Congress and DMK functionaries from the Union Territory also joined the AIADMK, which is fancying a good show in the neighbouring UT in the coming elections.
Mr Sivakumar has represented Neravi constituency in Karaikal as a DMK candidate three times, winning it for the fourth time in 2011 as an independent.
He had defeated DMK's Geetha then, and his joining AIADMK could help the party in its poll prospect in Karaikal region.
Mr Sivakumar had earlier extended support to Chief Minister N Rangasamy in the 30-member Puducherry Assembly but had called on Ms Jayalalithaa last year, triggering speculations that he could join the AIADMK.
Besides Mr Sivakumar, Puducherry Tourism Development Corporation former head Vaiyapuri Manikandan (AINRC), DMK's G Sundaravadivelu and its labour wing secretary Franklin Francois, former INTUC chief VC Ezhumalai and many others joined the AIADMK in Chennai, a party release said.
AIADMK's Cuddalore (East) district secretary and Commercial Taxes Minister MC Sampath and the party's Puducherry Secretary P Purushothaman were also present, it said.
CHENNAI: AIADMK today got a shot in its arm in poll-bound Puducherry as independent legislator VMC Sivakumar who had extended his support to the AINRC government there, joined the party in presence of its general secretary J Jayalalithaa.Besides Mr Sivakumar, senior Congress and DMK functionaries from the Union Territory also joined the AIADMK, which is fancying a good show in the neighbouring UT in the coming elections.
Mr Sivakumar has represented Neravi constituency in Karaikal as a DMK candidate three times, winning it for the fourth time in 2011 as an independent.
He had defeated DMK's Geetha then, and his joining AIADMK could help the party in its poll prospect in Karaikal region.
Mr Sivakumar had earlier extended support to Chief Minister N Rangasamy in the 30-member Puducherry Assembly but had called on Ms Jayalalithaa last year, triggering speculations that he could join the AIADMK.
Besides Mr Sivakumar, Puducherry Tourism Development Corporation former head Vaiyapuri Manikandan (AINRC), DMK's G Sundaravadivelu and its labour wing secretary Franklin Francois, former INTUC chief VC Ezhumalai and many others joined the AIADMK in Chennai, a party release said.
AIADMK's Cuddalore (East) district secretary and Commercial Taxes Minister MC Sampath and the party's Puducherry Secretary P Purushothaman were also present, it said.
Weavers In Assam's Silk Town Pin Hopes On New Government
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ASSAM: Kumud Deka, a 48-year old weaver in Sualkuchi, has been creating magic with muga silk for three decades now. But he isn't sure how long he can sustain his trade.
"We are losing out to power loom products," says Mr Deka as he takes a break to make himself heard. "We need subsidized yarn from the government. It will help us compete," he adds.
He echoes the concern of nearly 11,000 weavers of Sualkuchi, Assam's silk town -- barely 30 km from Guwahati --that produces unique Muga and Erie silk. Bridal wear produced here is known all over the world for its design and quality.
However, cheaper varieties of silk produced on power looms elsewhere but sold as Sualkuchi silk are threatening the survival of the hand woven cloth and its producers - the weavers.
Sualkuchi is part of the Jalukbari constituency that has been represented by heavyweights like the late Bhrigu Kumar Phukan - one of the architects of the anti-foreigners movement in Assam - and more recently Himanta Biswa Sarma, a prominent Congress rebel who joined the BJP last year who has been representing the constituency since 2006.
But weavers say despite being part of a high profile seat, they had to revolt against cheap imitation and fakes.
Hira Lal Kalita, secretary of the local weavers' association, recalls how a weavers' protest exactly three years ago turned violent and the police resorted to firing to control the crowd. "Sualkuchi weavers wouldn't survive if they don't revolt against the cheap imitation," says Mr Kalita.
Now, they want a specific trade mark for Sualkuchi silk to protect themselves from the fakes. They also want the government's help in eliminating middlemen.
"We need a yarn bank here and a modern market where weavers can directly interact with exporters and buyers. This will help them get a better price and eliminate middlemen," explains Mr Kalita.
ASSAM: Kumud Deka, a 48-year old weaver in Sualkuchi, has been creating magic with muga silk for three decades now. But he isn't sure how long he can sustain his trade."We are losing out to power loom products," says Mr Deka as he takes a break to make himself heard. "We need subsidized yarn from the government. It will help us compete," he adds.
He echoes the concern of nearly 11,000 weavers of Sualkuchi, Assam's silk town -- barely 30 km from Guwahati --that produces unique Muga and Erie silk. Bridal wear produced here is known all over the world for its design and quality.
Sualkuchi is part of the Jalukbari constituency that has been represented by heavyweights like the late Bhrigu Kumar Phukan - one of the architects of the anti-foreigners movement in Assam - and more recently Himanta Biswa Sarma, a prominent Congress rebel who joined the BJP last year who has been representing the constituency since 2006.
But weavers say despite being part of a high profile seat, they had to revolt against cheap imitation and fakes.
Hira Lal Kalita, secretary of the local weavers' association, recalls how a weavers' protest exactly three years ago turned violent and the police resorted to firing to control the crowd. "Sualkuchi weavers wouldn't survive if they don't revolt against the cheap imitation," says Mr Kalita.
Now, they want a specific trade mark for Sualkuchi silk to protect themselves from the fakes. They also want the government's help in eliminating middlemen.
"We need a yarn bank here and a modern market where weavers can directly interact with exporters and buyers. This will help them get a better price and eliminate middlemen," explains Mr Kalita.
Hira Lal Kalita, secretary of the local weavers' association, recalls how a weavers' protest exactly three years ago turned violent and the police resorted to firing to control the crowd. "Sualkuchi weavers wouldn't survive if they don't revolt against the cheap imitation," says Mr Kalita.
Now, they want a specific trade mark for Sualkuchi silk to protect themselves from the fakes. They also want the government's help in eliminating middlemen.
"We need a yarn bank here and a modern market where weavers can directly interact with exporters and buyers. This will help them get a better price and eliminate middlemen," explains Mr Kalita.
Gypsum Formation May Tell Us About Water On Mars
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LONDON: A new explanation of how gypsum is formed may change the way we process this important building material, as well as allow us to interpret past water availability on other planets such as Mars, scientists say.
Gypsum is an economically important mineral, extensively used as the commercial construction material Plaster of Paris, with a global production of around 100 billion kilogrammes per year, researchers said.
It is a ubiquitous mineral on the Earth's surface, and is also found on the surface of Mars. Despite its importance, until now researchers have not understood how gypsum grows from ions in solutions.
The formation of gypsum, from concentrated aqueous solutions of calcium sulfate, was thought to be a simple, single-step process.
A multinational team, including researchers from the University of Leeds in the UK, has now shown that gypsum forms through a complex 4-step process - the understanding of this process opens the way to more energy efficient production of plaster.
Researchers examined the process using time resolved synchrotron-based X-ray scattering at Diamond Light Source in the UK and identified and quantified each of the 4 steps of the formation process, highlighting specially that the initial moments in the reaction chain are of particular importance, because they determine the final properties of gypsum.
In this 1st step, tiny sub-3 nanometres elongated particles form the primary building blocks (bricks). In subsequent steps these bricks aggregate, self-assemble and rearrange themselves, and finally transform to gypsum crystals.
"Importantly, we envisage that it is possible to alter this pathway by specifically targeting individual stages. For example we could arrest the reaction at the first stage when only nano-bricks are formed, and thus directly synthesise a highly reactive precursor to Plaster of Paris," said Thomas Stawsky from University of Leeds.
"Since plaster is normally produced by the energy-intensive heating of gypsum, such an approach would drastically reduce the cost of production, and significantly decrease the carbon footprint of the industry," Stawsky said.
"We know that gypsum is naturally found on Mars, so applying our current finding will also help us understand and predict the hydrological conditions at the time of gypsum formation on other planets," said Liane G Benning from University of Leeds.
LONDON: A new explanation of how gypsum is formed may change the way we process this important building material, as well as allow us to interpret past water availability on other planets such as Mars, scientists say.Gypsum is an economically important mineral, extensively used as the commercial construction material Plaster of Paris, with a global production of around 100 billion kilogrammes per year, researchers said.
It is a ubiquitous mineral on the Earth's surface, and is also found on the surface of Mars. Despite its importance, until now researchers have not understood how gypsum grows from ions in solutions.
The formation of gypsum, from concentrated aqueous solutions of calcium sulfate, was thought to be a simple, single-step process.
Researchers examined the process using time resolved synchrotron-based X-ray scattering at Diamond Light Source in the UK and identified and quantified each of the 4 steps of the formation process, highlighting specially that the initial moments in the reaction chain are of particular importance, because they determine the final properties of gypsum.
In this 1st step, tiny sub-3 nanometres elongated particles form the primary building blocks (bricks). In subsequent steps these bricks aggregate, self-assemble and rearrange themselves, and finally transform to gypsum crystals.
"Importantly, we envisage that it is possible to alter this pathway by specifically targeting individual stages. For example we could arrest the reaction at the first stage when only nano-bricks are formed, and thus directly synthesise a highly reactive precursor to Plaster of Paris," said Thomas Stawsky from University of Leeds.
"Since plaster is normally produced by the energy-intensive heating of gypsum, such an approach would drastically reduce the cost of production, and significantly decrease the carbon footprint of the industry," Stawsky said.
"We know that gypsum is naturally found on Mars, so applying our current finding will also help us understand and predict the hydrological conditions at the time of gypsum formation on other planets," said Liane G Benning from University of Leeds.
Business Affairs
Aviation policy likely to be cleared by Cabinet this month
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A degree of "consensus" among various stakeholders on issues in draft civil aviation policy including norms for international flying by domestic airlines has "emerged" and it is likely to be approved by the Cabinet this month, a top official said today.
"(As far as) 5/20 and other issues raised in the draft civil aviation policy (are concerned), a degree of consensus has already emerged," Civil Aviation Secretary R N Choubey told reporters on the sidelines of the 29th anniversary of Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS).
Under the '5/20 rule' only those airlines having at least five years of domestic flying experience and a minimum of 20 aircraft are allowed to fly overseas.
BCAS is country's nodal aviation security agency.
Choubey said that his ministry will be taking the matter to the Cabinet this month itself, adding, "the (new aviation) policy, which will also clear the position on 5/20, will be approved this month."
The draft policy was unveiled in October last year and since then Government has held extensive consultations with various stakeholders including ministries, airlines,airport operators, ground handling agencies, among others during this period.
"We have already done a couple of rounds of inter ministerial consultations. We will now be in a position to take the matter to the Cabinet this month," he said.
The policy was expected to be finalised in the previous financial year as certain proposals were to be implemented from April 1, 2016.
While startup carriers Vistara and Air Asia India, where Tatas is a stakeholder, are demanding that the 5/20 rule be done away with, the grouping of four private Indian carriers comprising IndiGo, SpiceJet, Jet Airways and GoAir wants the rule to continue.
The proposed policy seeks to give a boost the Indian aviation sector, which has high growth potential, and strengthen regional connectivity.
It has suggested tax incentives for airlines, maintenance and repair works of aircraft besides mooting 2 per cent levy on all air tickets to fund regional connectivity scheme.
There are other significant proposals such as increasing FDI limit for foreign airlines, setting up of no-frills airports and providing viability gap funding for airlines to bolster regional air connectivity as well.
A degree of "consensus" among various stakeholders on issues in draft civil aviation policy including norms for international flying by domestic airlines has "emerged" and it is likely to be approved by the Cabinet this month, a top official said today.
"(As far as) 5/20 and other issues raised in the draft civil aviation policy (are concerned), a degree of consensus has already emerged," Civil Aviation Secretary R N Choubey told reporters on the sidelines of the 29th anniversary of Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS).
Under the '5/20 rule' only those airlines having at least five years of domestic flying experience and a minimum of 20 aircraft are allowed to fly overseas.
BCAS is country's nodal aviation security agency.
Choubey said that his ministry will be taking the matter to the Cabinet this month itself, adding, "the (new aviation) policy, which will also clear the position on 5/20, will be approved this month."
The draft policy was unveiled in October last year and since then Government has held extensive consultations with various stakeholders including ministries, airlines,airport operators, ground handling agencies, among others during this period.
"We have already done a couple of rounds of inter ministerial consultations. We will now be in a position to take the matter to the Cabinet this month," he said.
The policy was expected to be finalised in the previous financial year as certain proposals were to be implemented from April 1, 2016.
While startup carriers Vistara and Air Asia India, where Tatas is a stakeholder, are demanding that the 5/20 rule be done away with, the grouping of four private Indian carriers comprising IndiGo, SpiceJet, Jet Airways and GoAir wants the rule to continue.
The proposed policy seeks to give a boost the Indian aviation sector, which has high growth potential, and strengthen regional connectivity.
It has suggested tax incentives for airlines, maintenance and repair works of aircraft besides mooting 2 per cent levy on all air tickets to fund regional connectivity scheme.
There are other significant proposals such as increasing FDI limit for foreign airlines, setting up of no-frills airports and providing viability gap funding for airlines to bolster regional air connectivity as well.
Apple still strong at 40, but are best years behind it?
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Apple turned 40 on Friday, and it's a very different company from the audacious startup that Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak launched in a Silicon Valley garage in 1976.
Today, the maker of iPhones and Mac computers is the world's most valuable public corporation, with 100,000 employees and a new, multi-billion dollar headquarters in Cupertino, California, set to open next year. But despite its astounding financials Apple reported USD 53 billion in profit on USD 233 billion in sales last year some critics have suggested Apple's best years are behind it, as it has struggled to come up with new products and match the phenomenal success it has had in recent years.
Not surprisingly, longtime employees like software vice president Guy "Bud" Tribble disagree.
"We still think we're going to change the world," said Tribble, one of a half-dozen Apple staffers selected by the company to briefly reminisce with reporters this week. Tribble started with Apple in 1980 and worked on the original Macintosh team. He added: "We had no idea back then that Apple would grow to the size that it is."
The company now boasts that more than 1 billion Apple devices iPods, iPhones, iPads, Macs and Apple Watches are in regular use around the world. Those products are widely admired and imitated. But Apple depends on the iPhone for two-thirds of its revenue. And after selling a record number of iPhones last year, analysts say sales are leveling off and may even decline this year.
As it enters middle age, Apple may find it difficult to maintain its leadership in the industry. Some experts say it's getting harder to come up with new advances to distinguish Apple's products from those of its competitors.
"Apple is still as good as it used to be, but everyone else has gotten better than they used to be," said James McQuivey, a tech analyst with Forrester Research.
He cited longtime rival Microsoft, once viewed as an industry laggard, but now credited with pioneering tablet computers with detachable keyboards a category even Apple is embracing with the business-oriented iPad Pro. By contrast, he noted, Apple's latest iPhone is a downsized version of earlier models.
Longtime staffers said Apple still has the zeal to create revolutionary products.
"We've done this more times than anybody else," said Greg Joswiak, a 30-year employee and vice president for product marketing. He listed the iPod, iPhone, iPad, iTunes and the company's online App Store, the new Apple Watch and recent initiatives to create new health-tracking and medical-research apps for the iPhone and Watch.
_040216011605.jpg "Apple still strong at 40, but are best years behind it?")
Apple turned 40 on Friday, and it's a very different company from the audacious startup that Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak launched in a Silicon Valley garage in 1976.
Today, the maker of iPhones and Mac computers is the world's most valuable public corporation, with 100,000 employees and a new, multi-billion dollar headquarters in Cupertino, California, set to open next year. But despite its astounding financials Apple reported USD 53 billion in profit on USD 233 billion in sales last year some critics have suggested Apple's best years are behind it, as it has struggled to come up with new products and match the phenomenal success it has had in recent years.
Not surprisingly, longtime employees like software vice president Guy "Bud" Tribble disagree.
"We still think we're going to change the world," said Tribble, one of a half-dozen Apple staffers selected by the company to briefly reminisce with reporters this week. Tribble started with Apple in 1980 and worked on the original Macintosh team. He added: "We had no idea back then that Apple would grow to the size that it is."
The company now boasts that more than 1 billion Apple devices iPods, iPhones, iPads, Macs and Apple Watches are in regular use around the world. Those products are widely admired and imitated. But Apple depends on the iPhone for two-thirds of its revenue. And after selling a record number of iPhones last year, analysts say sales are leveling off and may even decline this year.
As it enters middle age, Apple may find it difficult to maintain its leadership in the industry. Some experts say it's getting harder to come up with new advances to distinguish Apple's products from those of its competitors.
"Apple is still as good as it used to be, but everyone else has gotten better than they used to be," said James McQuivey, a tech analyst with Forrester Research.
He cited longtime rival Microsoft, once viewed as an industry laggard, but now credited with pioneering tablet computers with detachable keyboards a category even Apple is embracing with the business-oriented iPad Pro. By contrast, he noted, Apple's latest iPhone is a downsized version of earlier models.
Longtime staffers said Apple still has the zeal to create revolutionary products.
"We've done this more times than anybody else," said Greg Joswiak, a 30-year employee and vice president for product marketing. He listed the iPod, iPhone, iPad, iTunes and the company's online App Store, the new Apple Watch and recent initiatives to create new health-tracking and medical-research apps for the iPhone and Watch.
Maggi effect: FSSAI issues order on defying MSG related norms
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Food regulator FSSAI has allowed state authorities to start proceedings against noodle or pasta makers if taste enhancer monosodium glutamate (MSG) is found in their products despite carrying 'No MSG' or 'No added MSG' label on the packets.
The direction, which comes after the Maggi controversy last year, clarified that state food safety commissioners can launch specific enforcement/prosecution only after ascertaining that MSG was "deliberately added" during the course of manufacturing and the same was not declared on the label of the noodle/pasta packer as per the food safety regulations.
"... To prevent, both, avoidable harassment/ prosecution of Food Business Operators (FBOs) as well as to ensure that consumers are facilitated to exercise informed choices in respect of what they eat, proceedings may be launched against FBOs only when the lables states "No MSG" or "No added MSG" and MSG is actually found in the impunged foodstuff," Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said in an order.
Glutamate is naturally found in some common foods such as milk, spices, wheat, vegetables, etc.
Presently there is no analytical method to determine whether MSG was added to the product during its manufacture or was naturally present in the product. This can however be checked through inspection of the manufacturing premises.
"Commissioners of Food Safety are advised that specific enforcement/prosecution may not be launched against the manufacturers of Noodles/Pasta on account of presence of MSG/Glutamic Acid unless it is ascertained by the department that Monosodium Glutamate flavour enhancer (INS E-621) was deliberately added during the course of manufacture without required declaration on the label as indicated in Para 1 above," the order added.
In June, Nestle had to withdraw its instant noodles brand Maggi from the market over allegations of high lead content and presence of MSG (monosodium glutamate).
The food safety regulator FSSAI had banned Maggi noodles after it found excess level of lead in samples, terming it as "unsafe and hazardous" for human consumption.
Food regulator FSSAI has allowed state authorities to start proceedings against noodle or pasta makers if taste enhancer monosodium glutamate (MSG) is found in their products despite carrying 'No MSG' or 'No added MSG' label on the packets.
The direction, which comes after the Maggi controversy last year, clarified that state food safety commissioners can launch specific enforcement/prosecution only after ascertaining that MSG was "deliberately added" during the course of manufacturing and the same was not declared on the label of the noodle/pasta packer as per the food safety regulations.
"... To prevent, both, avoidable harassment/ prosecution of Food Business Operators (FBOs) as well as to ensure that consumers are facilitated to exercise informed choices in respect of what they eat, proceedings may be launched against FBOs only when the lables states "No MSG" or "No added MSG" and MSG is actually found in the impunged foodstuff," Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) said in an order.
Glutamate is naturally found in some common foods such as milk, spices, wheat, vegetables, etc.
Presently there is no analytical method to determine whether MSG was added to the product during its manufacture or was naturally present in the product. This can however be checked through inspection of the manufacturing premises.
"Commissioners of Food Safety are advised that specific enforcement/prosecution may not be launched against the manufacturers of Noodles/Pasta on account of presence of MSG/Glutamic Acid unless it is ascertained by the department that Monosodium Glutamate flavour enhancer (INS E-621) was deliberately added during the course of manufacture without required declaration on the label as indicated in Para 1 above," the order added.
In June, Nestle had to withdraw its instant noodles brand Maggi from the market over allegations of high lead content and presence of MSG (monosodium glutamate).
The food safety regulator FSSAI had banned Maggi noodles after it found excess level of lead in samples, terming it as "unsafe and hazardous" for human consumption.
Railways set to introduce first batch of train hostesses on New Delhi-Agra Gatimaan Express
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As Indian Railways usher in to the age of high speed trains, it is all set to upgrade its standards at par with air travel. And the most notable feature of it will be smart, polite and well groomed train hostesses and stewards. This will be common to other premium trains, including Rajdhani Express and Shatabdi Express. The service will also be available on proposed Tejas Express, announced by Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu in the 2016 Budget.
The Indian Railway is set to introduce the first batch of train hostesses on New Delhi - Agra Gatimaan Express next week.
While the objective is bringing train journey in India at par with air travel and other world class facilities, officials claimed it will also create job prospects. Taking a cue from several high-speed train services in European countries, the Indian Railways have also decided to introduce hostesses in proposed Tejas Express and Gatimaan Express trains on other corridors. The first Gatimaan Express, the fastest train in India, will be launched on April 5, where hostesses will be deployed to cater to the passengers.
The train will be flagged-off by Suresh Prabhu. Officials said the Indian Railway, in wake of fare hike in higher classes, has been facing tough competition from low cost airlines; hence, it intends to introduce rail hostess system in Rajdhani Express and Shatabdi Express trains across the country.
A Railway Board official said this system is already in practice in China and several European countries. "The system would generate jobs for women. Being efficient in hospitality, women would enhance the reputation of railways by providing better catering services to passengers aboard prestigious trains," he said.
"We are trying to provide best possible services in Gatimaan Express matching the flight services. We aim to provide world class environment on Indian trains so that one can look at these jobs with dignity. Depending on success of the experiment on New Delhi-Agra Gatimaan Express, train hostesses will be deputed in Rajdhani and Sahatabdi Express trains," a senior railway ministry official said.
The railways are also working on nine corridors where semi-high speed trains with such facilities will be introduced. The Indian Railways plans to roll out such trains on nine more routes, including Kanpur - Delhi, Chandigarh -Delhi, Hyderabad - Chennai, Nagpur - Bilaspur, Goa - Mumbai and Nagpur - Secunderabad among others.
Delhi's Divisional Rail Manager (DRM) Arun Arora said two attendants - one male and one female - will be deputed in each coach of Gatimaan Express.
From serving food to providing newspapers, magazines - they will assist the passengers in all possible ways. New Delhi - Agra Gatimaan Express will have 20 train hostesses - two each for 10 passenger coaches in the train.
An IRCTC official said the train hostesses will be provided by a private agency that will be assigned the catering on the train. "These hostesses will be skilled with proficiency in English and Hindi so that they can assist the passengers in the best possible way. In addition to this, basic etiquette training will be given to them," officials said. A trial run for this was successfully conducted last month following which the go-ahead was given by the Railway Ministry.
It may be noted that the proposal of train hostesses on the pattern of air hostesses was mooted during the tenure of former railway minister Mamata Banerjee. But repeated changes in the ministries, the plan was put on backburner.
As Indian Railways usher in to the age of high speed trains, it is all set to upgrade its standards at par with air travel. And the most notable feature of it will be smart, polite and well groomed train hostesses and stewards. This will be common to other premium trains, including Rajdhani Express and Shatabdi Express. The service will also be available on proposed Tejas Express, announced by Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu in the 2016 Budget.
The Indian Railway is set to introduce the first batch of train hostesses on New Delhi - Agra Gatimaan Express next week.
While the objective is bringing train journey in India at par with air travel and other world class facilities, officials claimed it will also create job prospects. Taking a cue from several high-speed train services in European countries, the Indian Railways have also decided to introduce hostesses in proposed Tejas Express and Gatimaan Express trains on other corridors. The first Gatimaan Express, the fastest train in India, will be launched on April 5, where hostesses will be deployed to cater to the passengers.
The train will be flagged-off by Suresh Prabhu. Officials said the Indian Railway, in wake of fare hike in higher classes, has been facing tough competition from low cost airlines; hence, it intends to introduce rail hostess system in Rajdhani Express and Shatabdi Express trains across the country.
A Railway Board official said this system is already in practice in China and several European countries. "The system would generate jobs for women. Being efficient in hospitality, women would enhance the reputation of railways by providing better catering services to passengers aboard prestigious trains," he said.
"We are trying to provide best possible services in Gatimaan Express matching the flight services. We aim to provide world class environment on Indian trains so that one can look at these jobs with dignity. Depending on success of the experiment on New Delhi-Agra Gatimaan Express, train hostesses will be deputed in Rajdhani and Sahatabdi Express trains," a senior railway ministry official said.
The railways are also working on nine corridors where semi-high speed trains with such facilities will be introduced. The Indian Railways plans to roll out such trains on nine more routes, including Kanpur - Delhi, Chandigarh -Delhi, Hyderabad - Chennai, Nagpur - Bilaspur, Goa - Mumbai and Nagpur - Secunderabad among others.
Delhi's Divisional Rail Manager (DRM) Arun Arora said two attendants - one male and one female - will be deputed in each coach of Gatimaan Express.
From serving food to providing newspapers, magazines - they will assist the passengers in all possible ways. New Delhi - Agra Gatimaan Express will have 20 train hostesses - two each for 10 passenger coaches in the train.
An IRCTC official said the train hostesses will be provided by a private agency that will be assigned the catering on the train. "These hostesses will be skilled with proficiency in English and Hindi so that they can assist the passengers in the best possible way. In addition to this, basic etiquette training will be given to them," officials said. A trial run for this was successfully conducted last month following which the go-ahead was given by the Railway Ministry.
It may be noted that the proposal of train hostesses on the pattern of air hostesses was mooted during the tenure of former railway minister Mamata Banerjee. But repeated changes in the ministries, the plan was put on backburner.
Samsung may unveil 5-inch foldable smartphone next year
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South Korean smartphone maker Samsung may unveil a game-changer device next year which can be a 5-inch smartphone when folded and turn into a 7-inch tablet when opened, a media report said.
A prototype of foldable display is finished with development and the company is hoping to mass-produce the device starting from second half of this year, Korean news site ETNews reported.
Samsung reportedly invested into several technologies that are needed to build foldable smartphone.
The device can bend a screen in half by using OLED Display. One can carry it like a wallet and use it by opening it.
"Development of foldable OLED is taking place according to our plan. We are planning on mass-production and release of this product by discussing with our partners," Lee Chang-hoon, director of Samsung Display, said in January this year.
"Although mass-production cannot be concluded hastily since Samsung Electronics still has few other major tasks to complete, I have heard that Samsung Electronics had made considerable amount of results in the time being," a representative of an industry was quoted as saying.
South Korean smartphone maker Samsung may unveil a game-changer device next year which can be a 5-inch smartphone when folded and turn into a 7-inch tablet when opened, a media report said.
A prototype of foldable display is finished with development and the company is hoping to mass-produce the device starting from second half of this year, Korean news site ETNews reported.
Samsung reportedly invested into several technologies that are needed to build foldable smartphone.
The device can bend a screen in half by using OLED Display. One can carry it like a wallet and use it by opening it.
"Development of foldable OLED is taking place according to our plan. We are planning on mass-production and release of this product by discussing with our partners," Lee Chang-hoon, director of Samsung Display, said in January this year.
"Although mass-production cannot be concluded hastily since Samsung Electronics still has few other major tasks to complete, I have heard that Samsung Electronics had made considerable amount of results in the time being," a representative of an industry was quoted as saying.
General Awareness
India has elevated to 6th position among World’s Top 10 Manufacturers
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In accordance with the “The Yearbook” published by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO),India has been positioned at 6th place among the world’s 10 largest manufacturing countries.
- The list has been surmounted by China, which was followed by the US, Japan,Germany and Korea. Indonesia was stood at the bottom of the list.
Key Highlights of Report w.r.t. India
- The India’s growth has been upgraded to 3 positions as compared to the previous 9th.
- As per report, the Manufacturing Value Added (MVA) in India enhanced by 7.6% in 2015 in comparison with the previous year.
- Also quarterly index of industrial production (IIP) shows 1% growth of manufacturing output in the fourth quarter of 2015.
While India shows the tremendous growth, on the global front, the growth rate of manufacturing production has slowed to 2.8% in 2015.
- The reason behind this slowdown is due to the reduced manufacturing growth rates in major developing and emerging economies.
About International Yearbook of Industrial Statistics
It is a flagship publication of UNIDO that provides economists, planners, policy makers and business people with worldwide statistics on the current level, structure and trends in the manufacturing sector.
- It is designed to facilitate international comparisons relating to manufacturing activity and industrial development and performance.
- It provides data that can be used to analyze patterns of growth which is needed in long-term trends for better performances.
- In accordance with the “The Yearbook” published by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO),India has been positioned at 6th place among the world’s 10 largest manufacturing countries.
- The list has been surmounted by China, which was followed by the US, Japan,Germany and Korea. Indonesia was stood at the bottom of the list.
- The India’s growth has been upgraded to 3 positions as compared to the previous 9th.
- As per report, the Manufacturing Value Added (MVA) in India enhanced by 7.6% in 2015 in comparison with the previous year.
- Also quarterly index of industrial production (IIP) shows 1% growth of manufacturing output in the fourth quarter of 2015.
While India shows the tremendous growth, on the global front, the growth rate of manufacturing production has slowed to 2.8% in 2015.- The reason behind this slowdown is due to the reduced manufacturing growth rates in major developing and emerging economies.
About International Yearbook of Industrial Statistics
It is a flagship publication of UNIDO that provides economists, planners, policy makers and business people with worldwide statistics on the current level, structure and trends in the manufacturing sector.- It is designed to facilitate international comparisons relating to manufacturing activity and industrial development and performance.
- It provides data that can be used to analyze patterns of growth which is needed in long-term trends for better performances.
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