#ministry of heavy industries and public enterprises

[bidhelp]

Declaration Regarding Submission and Approval of Samples—Bid

Bid on government jobs through the GeM (Government e-Marketplace) Portal. In order to do this, you need to know how to send samples and do advance sampling. That way, the teams that buy things can be honest and sure about the goods they buy. Besides that, they help providers bid easily. Let’s go over this important part of bids in more depth.

What does the GeM Portal Declaration about Sample say?

Anyone who wants to bid puts in a sample statement to show that they can and are willing to provide product samples if the tender needs them. GeM lets the government get real samples of goods to make sure they meet standards, are good quality, and are ready to be sold. This sentence is very important when making a choice.

Purpose: The main goal is to make sure the product lives up to the strict requirements laid out in the offer.

When do you need it: The person who is buying may ask for a sample as part of the process? This is especially true for things where quality control is very important. Submission: Send these papers: It needs to be sent with the bid papers or as per the rules of the tender.

Advance Sampling: The Key to Competitive Bidding.

Before some bids are opened, an extra step called “advance sampling” may need to be taken. The seller has to send a sample of the item before the bids can be seen by everyone. Before the last bids are looked at: a sample of the product is sent in. The term for this is “advance sampling.” This is done to make sure that the things being bid on are exactly what the buyer wants. Why does it matter: If something goes wrong, this method helps fix it and makes sure that only buyers who can offer things that meet the buyer’s wants are chosen? Things that bidders will like: Samples can be sent by sellers before they send any money to show that the things are of good quality and meet the needs.

Importance of Both Declarations in the GeM Portal It is important to make sure that all the rules are followed and that the quality of the product is good before the deal is finalized. The sample statement and advance sampling are both important ways to do this. These are things that small businesses need to know to see if their product meets the needs of the buyer and if the buyer can move on to the next step in the buying process.

More people will trust it: People are more likely to trust a source to give good goods if they say clear and true things about samples.

Makes sure the tender terms are followed: When sellers offer samples, it means they can meet the technical and quality standards stated in the ad.

More often, bids win. The seller who does everything asked of them, like putting in an example, is more likely to get the deal.

How to Submit the Declaration Regarding Sample and Advance Sampling?

What do I need to do?

You can send these comments easily, but they need to be real. This is what you need to do most: Get to the Offer: Sign in to your GeM account to find the bid or offer paper you need. Read the following: Pay close attention to the bid paper to see if it asks for any samples or early examples.

What you need to do is: Either fill out the sample statement form online or send the right paperwork with your bid if it says to.

Show what you mean: Make sure the buyer gets the sample on time and with all the right papers if they ask for one. In your statement, you should say that the sample you sent in meets the requirements set out in the offer.

How to Send in a Good Sample Read and make sure you understand: After reading the offer paper, make sure you fully understand the technical requirements. Only then should you send in a sample. Make sure that it’s good: If you get the job, the model you send in should show how good the work will be. This should be a great way to meet the needs. Getting ready on time: Send the statement and any real samples by the date the buyer gives you. You could be kicked out of the game if you come in too late. Clear Documentation: The sample should come with all the necessary proof, like product licenses, quality compliance records, and information about the box.

Conclusion

A big part of how the government gets things is what the GeM portal says about samples and advance sampling. Buyers for the government are more likely to trust a dealer if they send samples that look good and are the right thing. Also, this will help them get deals more often. Always pay close attention to the product specs, needs, and due dates when you read the deal. Making this move will help you win the bid more often.

Declaration Regarding Sample and Advance Sampling for Bid Number

Date: [Insert Date]

To,

The Procurement Officer, [Name of the Procuring Organization], [Address of the Procuring Organization], [City, State, PIN Code].

Subject: Declaration Regarding Sample and Advance Sampling for Bid Number [Bid Number]

Dear Sir/Madam,

We, [Your Company Name], located at [Your Company Address], hereby submit this declaration concerning the provision and handling of samples and advance samples as per the requirements specified in Bid Number [Bid Number].

Declaration on Sample and Advance Sampling

Provision of Samples:

Sample Submission: We confirm that we will provide samples of the goods specified in the bid document upon request. These samples will accurately represent the quality and specifications of the products we propose to supply.

Sample Cost: Any costs associated with the provision of samples, including shipping and handling, will be borne by [Your Company Name], unless otherwise specified in the bid document.

Advance Sampling:

Advance Sample Provision: We agree to provide advance samples as required by the procuring organization prior to the final contract award. These advance samples will be provided in accordance with the specifications outlined in the bid.

Advance Sample Handling: We will ensure that advance samples are provided within the stipulated time frame and are representative of the final product to be delivered. The advance samples will be used to assess compliance with technical and quality specifications.

Compliance with Relevant Regulations: This declaration is made in accordance with the following regulations and guidelines:

General Financial Rules (GFR) 2017 – Rule 169: Guidelines on the provision of samples and advance samples in public procurement.

Manual of Procurement of Goods – Procedures for sample submission and evaluation.

Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) Guidelines – Standards for sample handling and procurement transparency.

Supporting Documentation: Attached are any relevant documents related to the sample and advance sampling process, including previous sample test reports and compliance certificates.

We affirm that all information provided is accurate and conforms to the requirements stipulated in the bid documents. Any failure to provide samples as required or misrepresentation of sample details may lead to disqualification from the procurement process or cancellation of any awarded contracts.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Yours faithfully,

[Signature] [Name of the Authorized Signatory] [Designation] [Your Company Name] [Contact Number] [Email Address]

[thevibes1]

Breaking Down the Latest Headlines: A Snapshot of Recent Malaysian News

Political Landscape: A Time of Transition

Malaysia's political scene continues to evolve, marked by significant shifts and developments. The government has been navigating a period of transition, with recent announcements from Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim signaling a recalibration of policy priorities. The focus has been on enhancing economic growth while addressing pressing social issues. Anwar’s administration has emphasized the importance of strengthening Malaysia’s economic resilience in the face of global uncertainties.

The latest budget proposal, introduced by the government, Malaysian News Latest aims to stimulate economic recovery post-pandemic. Key areas of investment include infrastructure development, digital innovation, and green technology. This approach is expected to create job opportunities and drive sustainable growth. Additionally, the government is working on reforms to improve transparency and accountability in public administration, which has been a central theme in recent policy discussions.

Environmental Concerns: Addressing Climate Change

Environmental issues have also been prominent in recent news. Malaysia is grappling with the effects of climate change, particularly concerning deforestation and pollution. The country has experienced severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and flooding in various regions. These events have highlighted the urgent need for effective climate action.

In response, Malaysia’s Ministry of Environment and Water has outlined a new set of initiatives aimed at combating climate change. This includes stricter regulations on industrial emissions, increased investment in renewable energy sources, and efforts to protect Malaysia’s rich biodiversity. The government has also announced plans to enhance forest conservation programs and reforestation efforts to mitigate the impact of deforestation.

Economic Developments: Navigating Global Challenges

Malaysia’s economy, which has shown signs of recovery, Breaking News in Malaysia Today is facing challenges due to global economic uncertainties. Inflation rates and fluctuating commodity prices have impacted consumer spending and business confidence. The Malaysian Central Bank has been closely monitoring these developments and adjusting monetary policies to stabilize the economy.

In recent news, the Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has introduced measures to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These measures include low-interest loans and financial assistance programs designed to help businesses navigate the current economic climate. Additionally, the government is promoting digital transformation among SMEs to enhance their competitiveness in the global market.

Healthcare Advancements: Progress and Challenges

Healthcare remains a key focus as Malaysia continues to address the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. The government has been working on strengthening the healthcare system and improving accessibility to medical services. Recent reports highlight advancements in vaccination campaigns and the expansion of healthcare facilities.

The Ministry of Health has also been actively addressing public health concerns related to non-communicable diseases. Initiatives aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and early detection of diseases are being rolled out across the country. Despite these efforts, challenges such as healthcare inequality and the need for more comprehensive health coverage remain areas of concern.

Education and Youth: Shaping the Future

Education and youth development have been highlighted as critical areas for Malaysia’s future growth. Recent policies focus on enhancing the quality of education and providing more opportunities for young people. The government has introduced programs to support students’ digital literacy and vocational training, aiming to equip them with skills relevant to the evolving job market.

Additionally, there has been a push for reforms in the education sector to address issues such as outdated curricula and disparities in educational resources. The aim is to create a more inclusive and forward-thinking education system that prepares students for the challenges of the 21st century.

[isosaudiarabia]

How do Saudi Arabia companies go about obtaining ISO 22000 certification?

/ Uncategorized / By Factocert Mysore

Common Challenges Faced by Companies Seeking ISO 22000 Certification in Saudi Arabia

Introduction:

ISO 22000 certification in Saudi Arabia In Saudi Arabia burgeoning food industry, ensuring food safety is paramount. As companies strive to meet international standards and enhance their competitiveness, many are turning to ISO 22000 certification in Saudi Arabia. However, the journey towards certification is not without its challenges. In this blog, we explore some of the common hurdles faced by companies seeking ISO 22000 certification in Saudi Arabia and strategies to overcome them.

Navigating Regulatory Complexity:

One of the primary challenges for companies in Saudi Arabia pursuing ISO 22000 certification in Saudi Arabia is navigating the complex regulatory landscape. Saudi Arabia food safety regulations are governed by various authorities, including the Ministry of Public Health and the Saudi Arabia General Organization for Standardization (QS), each with its own set of requirements and guidelines. 

Ensuring alignment with these regulations while implementing ISO 22000 certification in Saudi Arabia standards can be a daunting task for companies, requiring careful navigation and coordination with regulatory bodies.

Cultural and Language Barriers:

Saudi Arabia is a multicultural society with a diverse workforce representing various nationalities and ethnicities. While this diversity enriches the fabric of the country, it also presents challenges in terms of communication and understanding. 

Language barriers and cultural differences can hinder effective implementation of ISO 22000 certification in Saudi Arabia standards, leading to misinterpretation of requirements and inconsistent practices across teams. Overcoming these barriers requires effective communication strategies, cultural sensitivity, and training programs tailored to the specific needs of the workforce.

Resource Constraints:

Resource constraints, both in terms of finances and expertise, pose significant challenges for companies seeking ISO 22000 certification in Saudi Arabia. Implementing food safety management systems requires investment in infrastructure, technology, training, and manpower, which may strain the resources of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular. 

Additionally, the shortage of qualified food safety professionals and consultants in Saudi Arabia can further exacerbate resource constraints, making it challenging for companies to navigate the certification process effectively.

Supply Chain Complexity:

The complexity of Saudi Arabia food supply chain presents another hurdle for companies pursuing ISO 22000 certification in Saudi Arabia. With a heavy reliance on imports to meet the country’s food demands, ensuring the safety and traceability of ingredients and products throughout the supply chain is essential. 

However, the fragmented nature of the supply chain, coupled with logistical challenges and varying standards among suppliers, makes it difficult for companies to maintain control and visibility over their entire supply chain. Addressing supply chain complexity requires collaboration, transparency, and the adoption of technologies such as blockchain and traceability systems to enhance visibility and traceability.

Cultural Shift and Resistance to Change:

Implementing ISO 22000 certification in Saudi Arabia standards often requires a cultural shift within organizations, with a focus on creating a culture of food safety and quality throughout the workforce. However, resistance to change and ingrained practices can pose significant challenges to this cultural shift.

Employees may be reluctant to embrace new processes and procedures, fearing disruption to established workflows or feeling overwhelmed by the perceived complexity of ISO 22000 certification in Saudi Arabia requirements. Overcoming resistance to change requires strong leadership, effective communication, and comprehensive training programs to engage employees and foster a sense of ownership and commitment to food safety goals.

Conclusion:

While pursuing ISO 22000 certification in Saudi Arabia may present various challenges, overcoming these hurdles is essential for companies seeking to enhance food safety, regulatory compliance, and competitiveness in the global marketplace. 

By addressing regulatory complexity, cultural and language barriers, resource constraints, supply chain complexity, and resistance to change, companies can navigate the certification process more effectively and reap the benefits of ISO 22000 certification in Saudi Arabia. 

Ultimately, a proactive and holistic approach to food safety management is key to overcoming challenges and driving continuous improvement in Saudi Arabia dynamic food industry landscape.

Why Factocert for ISO 22000 Certification in Saudi Arabia

We provide the best ISO consultants Who are knowledgeable and provide the best solution. And to know how to get ISO certification. Kindly reach us at contact@factocert.com work according to ISO standards and help organizations implement ISO certification in Saudi Arabia with proper documentation.

For more information, visit ISO 22000 Certification in Saudi Arabia.

Related links:

· ISO certification in Saudi Arabia

· ISO 9001 certification in Saudi Arabia

· ISO 14001 certification in Saudi Arabia

· ISO 45001 certification in Saudi Arabia

· ISO 27001 certification in Saudi Arabia

· ISO 22000 certification in Saudi Arabia

ISO 13485 Certification in Saudi Arabia

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ISO CONSULTANT IN SAUDI ARABIA

[safeday]

Ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate.

Workers are currently facing serious health impacts from climate change-related hazards.

A staggering number of workers are already being exposed to climate changerelated hazards in the workplace, and these figures are only likely to get worse. Many of these workers lose their life following such exposures, succumbing to fatal diseases, such as cancers and cardiovascular diseases, or develop debilitating chronic conditions and disabilities. Some worker populations may be especially vulnerable to the effects of climate change and therefore may need extra protective measures, for example, agricultural workers and other outdoor workers carrying out heavy labour in hot climates.

Current OSH policies may need to be adapted and new climate change-specific policies created: As climate change hazards evolve and intensify, it may be necessary to reevaluate existing legislation or create new regulations and guidance, to ensure that workers are properly protected. OSH considerations should be mainstreamed into climate-related policies, and climate concerns should be integrated into OSH practice. Any new legislation or policies should leverage synergies with existing legislation, such as global normative instruments.

Enhanced research and a stronger evidence base are needed to guide response. At present, the scientific evidence base is extremely limited in many critical areas and what does exist is frequently focused on public health, rather than occupational health. Comprehensive, high-quality research is needed to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of preventive OSH measures in different countries and sectors.

Social dialogue is the foundation for effective OSH responses in a changing world of work. OSH policies and programmes should be coordinated among government departments, including ministries of labour and ministries of health, to ensure policy coherence. Social dialogue between governments and social partners is also needed for the development of climate change mitigation and adaptation policies, as workers and employers are best placed to take appropriate action in the workplace.

Greening practices can also bring new OSH challenges. Enterprises are playing an important role in climate change mitigation strategies, by finding ways to reduce workplace emissions and implementing sustainable work practices. Green industries and technologies are also emerging to respond to this global emergency and could help in mitigation over the long term. However, green technologies may in some cases create or amplify OSH hazards and risks, especially if the appropriate infrastructure and OSH protections have not yet been developed.

The increased political profile of the climate-health nexus Nevertheless, positive steps are being taken in the right direction. As recognition of the climate-health nexus continues to grow globally, new OSH policies are being implemented to specifically address climate change hazards. Momentum from global initiatives such as COP 28 should be harnessed to continue to raise the political profile of human health, and in particular worker health, in order to negotiate for better protections for workers at the highest levels.

[chitkaraengineering]

Exploring the Fast Lane: A Comprehensive Guide to M.Tech in Automobile Engineering with ARAI

The world of automobiles is constantly evolving and advancing, and with that comes the need for skilled professionals who can keep up with the latest technologies and advancements. And if you're someone who is passionate about cars and all things automotive, then pursuing an M.Tech in Automobile Engineering could be the perfect career choice for you. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. That's where ARAI comes in - the Automotive Research Association of India is one of the premier institutes in the country for automobile engineering, and they offer a comprehensive M.Tech program that covers all aspects of the field. In this guide, we'll take a deep dive into what it takes to pursue an M.Tech in Automobile Engineering with ARAI, including the curriculum, eligibility criteria, and career prospects. So buckle up and get ready to hit the fast lane in your career with ARAI!

Overview of the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI)

The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) is a leading research and development organization in the field of automobiles. Established in 1966, ARAI is an autonomous body affiliated with the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises of the Government of India. The institute has been actively involved in research, testing, and certification of vehicles and their components, as well as in developing new technologies and standards for the automotive industry.

ARAI is located in Pune, Maharashtra, and has a sprawling 56-acre campus with state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. The institute is home to a team of highly skilled and experienced engineers and researchers who work on various projects related to automobiles, ranging from designing and testing new vehicles to developing emission control technologies.

ARAI has also been actively involved in providing education and training in the field of automobile engineering, and offers various courses and programs in collaboration with universities and institutions across the country. One such program is the M.Tech in Automobile Engineering, offered in collaboration with Savitribai Phule Pune University.

Benefits of pursuing M.Tech in Automobile Engineering with ARAI

Pursuing an M.Tech in Automobile Engineering with ARAI can open up a world of opportunities for you in the automotive industry. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of automobile engineering, including design, development, testing, and maintenance of vehicles and their components.

One of the biggest advantages of pursuing an M.Tech in Automobile Engineering with ARAI is the exposure to cutting-edge technologies and research in the field. ARAI has a team of highly skilled and experienced faculty members who are actively involved in research and development projects related to automobiles. This means that students get to learn from experts who are at the forefront of the industry, and gain practical knowledge and experience that is highly valued by employers.

Another advantage of pursuing an M.Tech in Automobile Engineering with ARAI is the opportunity to work on live projects and research initiatives. ARAI has collaborations with various industrial partners, including leading automotive manufacturers, which provides students with the chance to work on real-world problems and challenges. This not only enhances their learning experience but also helps them develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are essential in the automotive industry.

Eligibility criteria for M.Tech in Automobile Engineering with ARAI

To be eligible for the M.Tech in Automobile Engineering program with ARAI, candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical / Automobile / Production Engineering or its equivalent with a minimum of 60% aggregate marks. In addition, candidates must have a valid GATE score in Mechanical Engineering, Automobile Engineering, or Production and Industrial Engineering.

Candidates who do not have a valid GATE score can also apply for the program, but they will have to appear for an entrance examination conducted by ARAI. The entrance examination will consist of multiple-choice questions and will test candidates' knowledge in the fields of mechanical engineering, automobile engineering, and production and industrial engineering.

Admission process for M.Tech in Automobile Engineering with ARAI

The admission process for the M.Tech in Automobile Engineering program with ARAI is a two-step process. The first step is to apply online through the official website of ARAI, and submit the application form along with the required documents and application fee.

Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria will be shortlisted for the second step, which is a personal interview conducted by the selection committee. The interview will assess candidates' knowledge, skills, and aptitude in the field of automobile engineering, and will also evaluate their communication and interpersonal skills.

The final selection of candidates will be based on their performance in the personal interview, as well as their academic record and GATE score (if applicable).

Course curriculum and specialization options

The M.Tech in Automobile Engineering program with ARAI is a two-year full-time course, divided into four semesters. The program covers various aspects of automobile engineering, including vehicle design and development, powertrain systems, chassis systems, vehicle dynamics, advanced materials, and manufacturing processes.

In addition, the program offers specialization options in the areas of electric and hybrid vehicles, advanced materials and manufacturing, and vehicle safety and reliability. Students can choose to specialize in one of these areas based on their interests and career goals.

The program also includes a project work component in the final semester, where students undertake a research project in collaboration with an industry partner or faculty member. This provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems and challenges, and also helps them develop research and project management skills.

Faculty and research opportunities at ARAI

ARAI has a team of highly skilled and experienced faculty members who are experts in various fields of automobile engineering. The faculty members are actively involved in research and development projects related to automobiles, and are also engaged in providing education and training to students.

ARAI also offers various research opportunities to students, including internships, projects, and collaborations with industry partners. These opportunities provide students with practical experience and exposure to cutting-edge technologies and research in the field, and also help them develop professional networks and connections.

Industrial collaborations and placement opportunities

ARAI has collaborations with various industrial partners, including leading automotive manufacturers, component suppliers, and research organizations. These collaborations provide students with the opportunity to work on live projects and research initiatives, and also help them develop industry connections and networks.

In addition, ARAI has a dedicated placement cell that works with students to provide them with placement opportunities in leading automotive companies. The placement cell organizes campus interviews, job fairs, and industrial visits, and also provides career guidance and counseling to students.

Campus facilities and student life at ARAI

ARAI has a sprawling 56-acre campus located in the heart of Pune city. The campus has state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including research labs, testing facilities, and workshops. The institute also has a well-stocked library, sports facilities, and a cafeteria.

Student life at ARAI is vibrant and engaging, with various clubs and committees that organize cultural, sports, and technical events throughout the year. The institute also has a strong alumni network, with alumni working in leading positions in the automotive industry.

Frequently asked questions about M.Tech in Automobile Engineering with ARAI

Q1. What is the duration of the M.Tech in Automobile Engineering program with ARAI?

The program is a two-year full-time course, divided into four semesters.

Q2. What are the eligibility criteria for the program?

Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical / Automobile / Production Engineering or its equivalent with a minimum of 60% aggregate marks, and a valid GATE score in Mechanical Engineering, Automobile Engineering, or Production and Industrial Engineering.

Q3. What are the specialization options available in the program?

The program offers specialization options in the areas of electric and hybrid vehicles, advanced materials and manufacturing, and vehicle safety and reliability.

Q4. Does ARAI offer placement assistance to students?

Yes, ARAI has a dedicated placement cell that works with students to provide them with placement opportunities in leading automotive companies.

Conclusion and final thoughts

Pursuing an M.Tech in Automobile Engineering with ARAI can be a highly rewarding and fulfilling career choice for those who are passionate about automobiles and want to make a difference in the industry. The program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of automobile engineering, and also exposes them to cutting-edge technologies and research in the field.

In addition, ARAI offers various research and placement opportunities to students, as well as a vibrant campus life with various clubs and committees. So if you're looking to hit the fast lane in your career with ARAI, then don't hesitate to apply for the M.Tech in Automobile Engineering program today!

[pooja985]

Importance of Electric Two Wheeler Purchase in India

In India, to claim the subsidy, the purchaser must apply to the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises through the designated nodal agency in their state. The subsidy is disbursed directly to the manufacturer or dealer, who then reduces the price of the vehicle for the purchaser. In addition to the FAME India scheme, some states in India also offer subsidies for purchasing electric two wheelers. There are several reasons why subsidies on electric two wheeler purchases are important:

Encouraging the adoption of electric vehicles- Subsidies can help make electric two wheelers more affordable and encourage more people to switch from gas-powered vehicles to electric ones. It can help reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, as electric vehicles do not emit any tailpipe emissions.

Supporting the development of the electric vehicle industry- Subsidies can help support the growth and development of the electric vehicle industry, including its manufacturers, suppliers, and service providers. It can lead to the creation of new jobs and contribute to the overall economy.

Improving public health- Reducing air pollution from transportation can significantly benefit public health. Emissions from gas-powered vehicles contribute to a variety of health problems, such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Electric two wheeler subsidies can help reduce these emissions and improve public health.

Supporting sustainable transportation- Two wheeler electric scooters can be a sustainable transportation option, as they do not rely on fossil fuels and produce fewer emissions. Subsidies can help support the adoption of electric two wheelers and encourage more people to use sustainable transportation options. Overall, subsidies on electric two wheeler purchases can help encourage the adoption of electric vehicles, support the development of the electric vehicle industry, improve public health, and support sustainable transportation. In fact, two wheeler electric scooter like Lectrix LXS offers a range of features like 15 IoT, hassle-free charging, and more.

Also read : Know All About Subsidies on Electric Two Wheeler Purchase in India

[joezworld]

What is the status of vehicle rights in places like China or Russia, with rather patchy (at best) human rights records? What was it like in the USSR, Nazi Germany, or the Empire of Japan? And did Mussolini ever get his locomotives to run completely on time?

Strangely enough, it was a lot better in those countries for at least a while. 

To start, check out this post that goes into a little detail.

So, this post is going to not mention the United States or Canada - I’ve done posts on them before. 

Interestingly, three of the greatest proponents of locomotive rights in Europe came from people with some of the worst human rights records in modern history: Hitler, Stalin, and King Leopold II.

Belgium has a long history of locomotive rights, stretching back to within 20 years of the introduction of the railway in the country. During the first days of the reign of Leopold II, the king declared that locomotives and other railway equipment were to be considered “on the same level as any Belgian citizen”. Official government histories say that this was because of the king’s desire not allow slavery to happen on Belgian soil, but the existence of the very inappropriately named Congo Free State puts this answer in a very bad light. The generally accepted unofficial answer is much, much funnier - Leopold II was born after the first railways were laid in the country, and as the future king, he was kept well appraised of any new technologies in the country. He also had many, many, many, mistresses. In case you can’t tell where this is going, it is entirely likely that several of his more private extramarital affairs were with locomotives owned by the Belgian state rail company. Locomotives were at the time viewed as little more than beasts of burden, and while Leopold was more than willing to commit heinous atrocities upon the Africans, he was not about to stand here in his own country and get called an enjoyer of bestiality - so he made locomotives people in order to get ahead of his critics should an affair be made public. This had the interesting side effect of making Belgium one of the more progressive countries in Europe as far as locomotive rights went, and Belgian locomotives were very dedicated citizens often serving in civil and military leadership positions around the country. During the first world war, Belgian locomotives actively resisted the Germans for the entirety of the invasion, and a not-insignificant percentage of German locomotives brought in to manage the chaos were brought over to the Belgian side by promises of citizenship. 

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This did not go unnoticed by other, much worse European leaders such as Adolf Hitler, who understood the value of a functioning rail network as far as war logistics went, and made significant strides in offering French/Dutch/Polish/Russian/Norwegian/Italian/Etc. engines Nazi citizenship if they served the Reich. Unfortunately for Hitler, Nazis are terrible people who lead out fear, and many of the locomotives who did sign up for this did so because they wanted to Not Die, not because they supported the cause. As a result, large portions of the Reichsbahn rolling stock fleet just ran away or defected as soon as the Allies started getting near, causing serious supply issues that hastened the downfall of the German war effort. 

Also, because I know someone is going to ask about it, yes, those trains still ran. Please don’t ask me to elaborate beyond what’s here. 

Because locomotives would see what was going on and objected, the Reichsbahn very quickly began staffing those trains with engines that were True Believers, or (even worse) Jewish engines. (Those usually made one way trips, and it’s just as bad as you might think.)

Following the war, many locomotives who had been cleared of any collaboration charges still possessed their Nazi-Era citizenship, and tried to get them turned into citizenship of their home countries. Most places said no (except Belgium) and were promptly glared at by the American service-engines who were rebuilding their countries from the ground up, and then agreed. 

The impact on European Locomotive Rights by the Americans cannot be understated. Most European governments were totally prepared to resume the status quo if it wasn’t for the Americans rolling around with their US Citizen status on full display. This is also another reason why England is such a laggard in Locomotive Rights - the country was not as heavily destroyed as continental Europe, and was able to rebuild itself without US "interference".

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Stalin also was a firm believer in Locomotive Rights, for many of the same reasons as Hitler was - locomotives have the ability to bring your country to a halt, so you’d better have them on your side. He’d made attempts to make locomotives citizens before the war, but the Soviet efforts really came into their own during the 1950s - Stalin’s purges had removed a lot of humans from existence, and most locomotives at that point had been built by the USSR in the USSR, and therefore had no concept of ‘Disloyalty to The State", so they were natural fits for many roles within the Soviet government. At one point in 1982, the USSR’s Ministry of Transport was staffed only by vehicles, with no humans present whatsoever. The total integration of vehicles into the USSR reached its zenith in the late 70s, when new buildings were required to have elevators capable of lifting locomotives and other extremely heavy vehicles to at least the third floor - this requirement has remained even to this day, and most eastern European residential structures have the structural strength of a nuclear bomb shelter as a result. 

It should be pointed out that while the USSR might have treated locomotives well, it was still an authoritarian dystopia, and nothing here is an endorsement for the country or its actions/politics. 

Following the dissolution of the USSR, the hypercapitalist state of the former Eastern Bloc meant that anything and everything was up for sale, including people and machines. One enterprising locomotive used his newfound wealth to create a formidable trade union/gang that covers most of the former USSR to this day. This organization is the primary driver of locomotive rights laws in the former Soviet Bloc, but it should be noted that a lot of the pushback against locomotive rights comes from politicians trying to shut them down specifically. 

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Japan is... weird. Locomotives have been fully adopted into their society for generations, and there was no loss or gain of rights during the Second World War, as they were already in place. Let me explain why:

Due to Japan's Shinto influence, locomotives were considered to be basically human from their inception on the island - the first law specifically related to locomotives in the world was an edict issued by the Emperor in regards to the three locomotives imported by English and European engineers for use on the upcoming Shimbashi-Yokohama railway - they were to be given the same rights as those locomotives built domestically. Since then, most Japanese laws have included locomotives by default, often making no mention of them unless specifically including them because of physical differences. [For example, locomotives are not required to partake in mandatory military service, as their service to the railways is often more valuable, especially during peacetime.] However, while locomotives in the West were free to work as they pleased, even off of the rail network, Japanese trains do so in remarkably smaller numbers, with over 98% of locomotives remaining in railway service until their retirement. Those that do not do so typically enter railway-related fields like locomotive construction, upper management in railway companies, or working in the Japanese Ministry of Transport.

In this sense, locomotives in Japan can be considered to be less free than their western colleagues, as the nation culture of "work until you die" meant that no attempt was made to allow trains to enter human society, forcing them to essentially be segregated from humans when not directly pulling trains, as land is too scarce to use for western-style 'locomotive cities' except in extremely rural areas and Nagasaki*.

*Following the atomic bombing of the city in 1945, Nagasaki was rebuilt by the American occupying forces - many of whom were USRA locomotives. The city’s bombed-out industrial areas were already layered with train tracks, making it easy to create a locomotive sized living area. Hiroshima, which suffered damage to its human-oriented urban core, was not rebuilt with trains in mind.

  As such, locomotives are considered full Japanese citizens, but most Japanese humans have never interacted with them. Exceptions do exist, mostly in rural towns and villages, where a locomotive is usually considered to be the town's 'honored elder', as most locomotives on small branches have lived in the area for many decades, making them the oldest member of the town in many cases. This has lead to many culture clashes in larger cities, where residents may be apathetic to the desires their locomotive neighbors, much to the dismay and shock of a 'country bumpkin' who lives nearby.

Of particular issue to locomotive freedoms are multiple units. Since the 1960s, Japanese railways have put more focus into EMUs/DMUs rather than standard locomotive hauled trains. This has caused even more segregation amongst Japan's rail population, as permanently coupled multiple units cannot access the few existing locomotive/human developments, as they were designed for standalone locomotives. Urban sprawl and high land prices have made enlarging these developments is impossible. To date, the only MU focused 'loco-city' (other than one-track sheds in rural farming communities) is in the Fukushima Daiichi exclusion area. However, as the line accessing it is in the traditional Japanese 3'6" gauge, the community remains inaccessible to the 4'8.5" gauge Shinkansen trains, many of whom are almost totally isolated from anyone else - despite living in Japan's largest cities - as a result of their loading gauge restrictions.  

Similar social isolation occurs to ships and aircraft, but as they are able to receive emotional support from friends and relatives across the planet, they do not suffer from this isolation nearly as much. 

-------

At no point in Italian history has anyone been able to make the right decision in regards to locomotive rights. This is not to say that Locomotive rights (and vehicular rights in general) don’t exist in Italy - they do, rather thoroughly - but rather, the Italians have never once done so intentionally, instead implementing locomotive rights by having multiple laws, written on multiple occasions over multiple decades, that are so badly written that a train could and likely was driven through the loopholes that exist in them! 

[iccpl]

Media Mapping Survey by Top PR Agencies in India for Q1-FY21-22

This survey report provides information obtained through media analysis, regarding the news trends across major publications in the country. This survey report will pay particular attention to the news trends in the first quarter of FY2021-22 when the country was reeling under heavy pandemics. These observations do have limitations that will be noted and are based on a total number of stories categorised by different sectors. Not only India, but the entire world is experiencing a devastating wave of COVID-19. The spread of COVID-19 in India was initially characterized by fewer cases and lower case fatality rates compared with numbers in many developed countries, primarily due to a stringent lockdown and a demographic dividend. However, economic constraints forced a staggered lockdown exit strategy, resulting in a spike in COVID-19 cases. This factor, coupled with low spending on health as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP), created mayhem because of inadequate numbers of hospital beds and ventilators and a lack of medical personnel, especially in the public health sector. Nevertheless, technological advances, supported by a strong research base, helped contain the damage resulting from the pandemic. In the first ten days of May, India’s reported count of COVID-19 deaths was nearly 40,000, roughly accounting for a third of deaths worldwide during this period. The media ecosystem continues to be challenging this year ��� and that was before the pandemic. To inform the citizens during these uncertain times, newsrooms and media houses across the country have made pandemic coverage a priority. While there is an abundance of news to be reported on the global pandemic, the esteemed media houses of the country pointed out several other news trends to keep people educated and aware.

THE INDIAN MEDIA

“FREE PRESS IS ESSENTIAL TO FREE SOCIETY”

The Indian Media Industry is one of the world’s most diverse and vibrant in addition to being largely free and fair. The Indian media landscape has changed significantly over the last one decade. With the advancement in technology, the Indian media industry has been burgeoning like never before and expanded its reach, in terms of the number of outlets, whether in television, radio, print or digital.

At this hour of the global pandemic, media has successfully played the role of a watchdog of the government functionaries and has also aided in participatory communication in raising major issues faced by the citizens of the country. Several media platforms across the country kept providing credible news and information to the citizens of the country when they most needed it without letting fear affect them amid COVID-19. The onset of the global pandemic and ensuing lockdown has dealt a severe blow to the Indian economy. It is being reported that the Indian Media & Entertainment sector, which saw a contraction of around 24 per cent at Rs 1.38 lakh crore in the pandemic-struck 2020, is expected to log growth this year and double its revenue to Rs 2.68 lakh crore by 2025.

Print newspapers in India have been seeing a significant surge in revenue, making it the largest global market for the industry. The most popular daily in the country is “The Times of India” that had the highest average readership in 2017. India’s print industry is to be able to retain their audiences through digital platforms, while still maintaining enough advertising and subscription revenue to continue different editions.

TREND ANALYSIS OF COVID-19 OUTBREAK IN INDIA

More than 15 countries including the US, Russia, France and the United Kingdom rushed critical emergency use equipment to enable India counter the COVID-19’s deadly second wave. Ministry of External Affairs announced that several countries are sending hundreds of oxygen concentrators, respirators and large quantities of liquid oxygen to help India at this hour of the pandemic. The Delhi High Court announced that it will take up court proceedings through virtual mode from April 9 to April 23. India became the first country in the world to report over 4 lakh new cases on April 30, 2021. It was being speculated that the COVID-19 wave that plunged India into the world’s biggest health crisis has the potential to worsen in the coming weeks, with some research models projecting that the death toll could more than double from current levels. Several states of the country introduced lockdowns, although Prime Minister Narendra Modi resisted a national effort after one imposed by the Central government last year fueled a humanitarian crisis with migrant workers fleeing the cities on foot and in some cases bringing the virus with them. A devastating second wave of coronavirus in India has seen hospitals and crematoriums overwhelmed and widespread shortages of oxygen and medicines. Hospitals across India are also experiencing oxygen shortages, with some forced to put up signs warning of a lack of supplies. War of words erupted between the Central government and several state governments such as Delhi & Maharashtra government over oxygen supply.

Fitch group company (India Ratings) said “the second wave of COVID-19 infections will be less disruptive than the first wave for the business environment as corporates are better prepared”. But it was being reported that smaller businesses including micro, small and medium enterprises are laying off more employees as demand and sales have plummeted due to localised lockdowns implemented by the state governments. The Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, recently said that “the unemployment rate in the country has touched a four-month high as over 70 lakh jobs have been impacted.” Amid the concerns regarding shortage of COVID-19 vaccines in the national capital, the Delhi government recently stated that “the vaccination of the 18-44 age group remained suspended for the fifth consecutive day” and further informed that there is no COVAXIN stock available for any age group.

AAP MLA Atishi said “Delhi has already shut 235 of the 368 inoculation centres for this category due to a shortage of vaccines.” Few other states including Maharashtra suspended vaccination for 18-44 age group, citing shortage of doses. Amid the COVID-19 outbreak in the country, cases of Mucormycosis (Black Fungus) have emerged in patients who were in the recovery phase of the disease. Hundreds of corpses were also found floating in the Ganga river or buried in the sand of its banks in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, fearing they were COVID-19 infected.

Prime Minister during his latest address to the nation said "The Centre is taking back total control of vaccination now, will be implemented in next two weeks. The Centre will give free vaccines to states for all above 18. From 21 June, the Centre will provide free vaccines to states." Prime Minister also announced free ration for the poor under Prime Minister Garib Kalyan Yojana till Diwali.

As the second wave of coronavirus in the country continues to slow down, several states have started easing the strict restrictions which were imposed to check the spread of the deadly virus. Delhi resumed the Metro train services with 50 per cent seating capacity.

Malls, markets and market complexes were allowed to open between 10 am to 8 pm on odd-even basis in accordance with their shop numbers. Private offices also opened up with 50 per cent manpower. In Uttar Pradesh, the curfew continues to remain in districts that have more than 600 actives cases. With states unlocking across the country and the Delta variant still around, health experts are continuously stressing on the need to re-open with a robust vaccination strategy and COVID appropriate behaviour.

The Drugs Controller General of India (DGCA) has granted its nod to Indian pharmaceutical giant Cipla to import Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine for restricted emergency use in the country. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) extended the restrictions on scheduled international passenger flights to and from India extended till July 31st, 2021. DGCA also stated “However, international scheduled flights may be allowed on selected routes by the competent authority on a case-to-case basis.”

US President Joe Biden and house unanimously passed a resolution recognizing the devastating impact of COVID-19 in India and expressing the sense of the House of Representatives to urgently facilitate assistance. Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recently stated that India crossed the milestone of conducting 400 million tests for COVID-19 since the pandemic began, with the last 50 million tests being conducted over the last 24 days. The United States’ National Institutes of Health reported that India’s first indigenously developed COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin is able to effectively neutralise the Alpha and Delta variants of SARS-CoV-2. Read more on: https://www.iccpl.in

[newstfionline]

Thursday, October 15, 2020

Teen well-being (The Atlantic) Teens who participated in a 1,523 respondent survey between May and July this year were assessed for various mental well-being measures including life satisfaction, happiness, depression symptoms and loneliness. Their responses were then compared to the results of the same survey in 2018, and much to the surprise of the researchers, the teens were pretty much on par, and the percentage of teens depressed or lonely was lower in 2020 than in 2018. This is not to say that teens escaped the malaise that gripped the nation, far from it: 63 percent were concerned about catching the virus, 27 percent said a parent lost their job, 29 percent knew someone who caught the virus. No, the reason for the shift is that those considerable sources of anxiety were compensated for by the fact that teens were finally sleeping the correct amount of time: in 2018, just 55 percent of teens slept seven or more hours a night, and this year 84 percent slept seven or more hours a night while school was in session.

Cruise ship dismantling booms after pandemic (Reuters) Business is booming at a sea dock in western Turkey, where five hulking cruise ships are being dismantled for scrap metal sales after the COVID-19 pandemic all but destroyed the industry, the head of a ship recyclers’ group said on Friday. Cruise ships were home to the some of the earliest clusters of COVID-19 as the pandemic spread globally early this year. In March, U.S. authorities issued a no-sail order for all cruise ships that remains in place. On Friday, dozens of workers stripped walls, windows, floors and railings from several vessels in the dock in Aliaga, a town 45 km north of Izmir on Turkey’s west coast. Three more ships are set to join those already being dismantled. Before the pandemic, Turkey’s ship-breaking yards typically handled cargo and container ships, Kamil Onal, chairman of a ship recycling industrialists’ association, told Reuters. “But after the pandemic, cruise ships changed course towards Aliaga in a very significant way,” he said of the town.

Europe tightens rules as virus surges (AP) Governments across Europe are ratcheting up restrictions to try to beat back a resurgence of the coronavirus that has sent new confirmed infections on the continent to their highest weekly level since the start of the pandemic. The World Health Organization said Tuesday there were more than 700,000 new COVID-19 cases reported in Europe last week, a jump of 34% from the previous week. Britain, France, Russia and Spain accounted for more than half of the new infections. Italy and France are restricting parties and putting limits on restaurants and bars. The Netherlands went further and ordered the closing of all bars and restaurants, And to discourage partying at home, it banned the sale of alcohol after 8 p.m. The Czech Republic is closing all schools until Nov. 2, while Latvia is ordering teenagers to switch to distance learning for a week. And Britain unveiled a three-tiered system for deciding what restrictions to impose, based on how severe the outbreak is in certain areas. Those moves reflect a new approach to containing the virus among governments wary of hurting already fragile economies. Officials are eager to avoid the total lockdowns they imposed in the spring that resulted in heavy job losses. Instead, they are relying on a patchwork of regional or targeted restrictions that have sometimes caused confusion and frustration by those affected. The U.N. health agency appeared to support the new approach, with WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic saying lockdowns should be a “last resort.”

With winter on the way and windows open, Europe’s students prepare for the cold (Washington Post) With winter on its way and coronavirus guidelines advising teachers to keep classroom windows open, students across Northern Europe are preparing for the chill by packing blankets in their school bags and layering up in warm clothing. There is increasingly a consensus among experts that good ventilation is one of the best ways to prevent the virus from spreading. Anthony Costello, a former director at the World Health Organization, said last month that children “can survive a bit of cold, and they’re going to have to, because ventilation is so important.” With temperatures in Germany frequently dropping to freezing, children in the city of Bochum are bracing for a crisp learning environment as officials advise teachers to open the windows for fresh air every 20 minutes. Children have been told to bring blankets and wrap up. Although some schools struggle with the advice that the cold air needs to be brought in, schools in Denmark and other Nordic education systems are taking lessons—and young students—outside. More than half of about 200 Norwegian schools surveyed in a poll by researchers Ulrich Dettweiler and Gabriele Lauterbach last month said they were holding more classes outdoors—a move some already had planned on that was further propelled by the pandemic.

Belarusian crisis escalates (Foreign Policy) Belarusian opposition leader Svetlana Tikhanovskaya has demanded that President Aleksandr Lukashenko resign by Oct. 25 or face nationwide strikes. “[On] Oct. 26, all enterprises will begin a strike,” she said in a statement, “all roads will be blocked, state-owned stores will no longer have any sales.” Tikhanovskaya is hugely popular among protesters but fled to Lithuania in the aftermath of the controversial Aug. 9 election, which saw Lukashenko win by a landslide amid allegations of electoral fraud. Tikhanovskaya’s ultimatum is part of a wider escalation of tensions between Lukashenko and anti-government protesters. On Monday, the government authorized police to use lethal force against protesters after the ninth consecutive Sunday of massive protests in the capital of Minsk.

For Nagorno-Karabakh’s Dueling Sides, Living Together Is ‘Impossible’ (NYT) Armenians and Azerbaijanis lived side by side in the Soviet days, until conflict over the disputed mountain territory called Nagorno-Karabakh exploded in the late 1980s into riots, expulsions and a yearslong war. The violence left personal wounds festering for decades, as stubborn as the tan and gray stone ruins of Azerbaijani villages still scattered in the Armenian countryside. In the last two weeks, those unhealed scars have erupted into a modern-day conflagration of trench warfare, drone strikes and artillery bombardments. More than 500 Armenian soldiers have died, along with scores of civilians and an unknown number of Azerbaijanis. A cease-fire brokered in Moscow over the weekend has failed to hold, and President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan has threatened a further escalation of his offensive. For the region’s populace, the war is a continuation of on-off strife over both territory and history, with roots going back more than a century. The days when the Soviet Union kept a lid on such conflicts, and Azerbaijanis and Armenians mostly lived together in peace, feel like an irrevocably lost world. “Each wants to say that he is the master of this land,” said one refugee who left Azerbaijan in 1989. “To live together is, put simply, impossible.”

China’s Xi lays out plan to build Shenzhen into global rival to troubled Hong Kong (Washington Post) Chinese leader Xi Jinping announced plans to make Shenzhen an international trade hub and talent center, setting up the mainland metropolis as a business alternative to its politically troubled neighbor, Hong Kong. In a speech on Wednesday, Xi called for Shenzhen to take the lead in developing high-value innovative industries and drawing international talent. He said Shenzhen will develop its finance sector and international trade capabilities—which are Hong Kong’s economic strengths. The top-level support for Shenzhen was a clear message for Hong Kong, which lies just across a river from Shenzhen, said Victor Gao, a chair professor at China’s Soochow University and a former Foreign Ministry official. “If you do not have stability, if you are caught up in revolution, or great turmoil, or anarchy, then you will lose out on whatever advantages and resources you may have previously had,” Gao said. “Then your economic development will reverse course.” Hong Kong, which was supposed to enjoy self-governance in most of its affairs until 2047, has become a thorn in Beijing’s side because of large-scale public protests against China’s tightening control.

Japan’s navy adapts to the digital generation (Times of London) Japan’s navy is to launch a new, scaled down warship to compensate for a drop in recruitment among young people who cannot tolerate long periods at sea without access to their smartphones. The 30FFM frigate is designed for a crew of about 90 sailors, half that of the older vessels. The smaller crews reflect the crisis in recruitment faced by the Maritime Self-Defense Forces. The navy is struggling to fulfill its recruitment quotas, and in 2018 reached only 60 per cent of its target. In that year, it raised the upper age limit for recruits from 26 to 32. It has also taken steps to overcome the principal disincentive to would-be sailors—enforced isolation from the outside world. Sailors can now send emails from their mobile phones and have limited wireless internet access.

Thailand declares emergency after unprecedented protest (AP) Thai authorities declared a strict new state of emergency for the capital on Thursday, a day after a student-led protest against the country’s traditional establishment saw an extraordinary moment in which demonstrators heckled a royal motorcade. After the pre-dawn declaration, riot police moved in to clear out demonstrators who after a day of rallies and confrontation had gathered outside Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha’s office to push their demands, which include the former general’s stepping down, constitutional changes and reform of the monarchy. The protest Wednesday in Bangkok’s historic district, not far from glittering temples and royal palaces, was the third major gathering by student-led activists who have been pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable—and legal—language by publicly questioning the role of Thailand’s monarchy in the nation’s power structure.

Southeast Asia flood deaths near 40 as new storm approaches (Reuters) Nearly 40 people have died in Vietnam and Cambodia and scores more were missing, including rescuers, due to prolonged heavy rain and flash flooding as tropical storm Nangka edged towards the Vietnamese coast on Tuesday. Heavy rains since early October have caused deadly floods and landslides in several provinces in central Vietnam and displaced thousands of people in western Cambodia, officials and state media said. The floods are expected to worsen over the coming days, with tropical storm Nangka forecast to dump more rain as it makes landfall in Vietnam on Wednesday.

Coronavirus lockdown 2.0 deepens divisions in Israel (AP) When Israel went into lockdown last spring, Jerusalem pub owner Leon Shvartz moved quickly to save his business—shifting to a delivery and takeaway model that kept him afloat throughout the summer. Then came the second lockdown. With restaurants and shops shuttered again, Shvartz’s business is struggling to survive. He has laid off 16 of his 17 employees. By contrast, Israeli software maker Bizzabo, which operates in the hard-hit conference-management sector, quickly reinvented itself last spring by offering “virtual events.” It has more than doubled its sales and is expanding its workforce. Such tales of boom and bust reflect Israel’s growing “digital divide.” Even before the pandemic, Israel had one of the largest income gaps and poverty rates among developed economies, with a few high earners, mostly in the lucrative high-tech sector, while many Israelis barely get by as civil servants, in service industries or as small business owners. Those gaps have widened as the second nationwide lockdown, imposed last month, dealt a new blow to an economy already hit hard by the first round of restrictions. The fallout from the pandemic has also deepened long-simmering divisions among Israeli Jews, pitting a largely secular majority against a powerful ultra-Orthodox minority.

[trustednewstribune]

CBI case against Babul Supriyo's former staffer over corruption charges

CBI has registered a case against TMC leader Babul Supriyo’s former staffer over corruption charges.

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed a case of corruption against Sushanta Mallick, a former staffer of the then Minister of State for Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises Babul Supriyo, who quit BJP and joined Trinamool Congress a few months back.

Babul Supriyo was the Heavy Industries Minister from July 2016 to May 2019. According to the FIR, executives of a Engineering Projects India Limited (EPIL), under the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, were involved in corruption along with the then staffer of Babul Supriyo.

According to CBI, the then executives of EPIL conspired and demanded Rs 50 lakh from Ashutosh Bandhopadhayay, for providing favour for the tenders awarded and being awarded by EPIL during the period 2016–2017.

“Verification has revealed that out of Rs 50 lakh, Rs 40 lakh were to be given to SPS Bakshi, the then CMD, EPIL and Rs 10 lakh were to be given to Harcharan Pal, the then Executive Director (Contracts) and Paritosh Kumar Praveen, the then Manager (Grade II), EPIL. Verification has revealed that SPS Bakshi had got conveyed to Ashutosh Bandhopadhayay through S Tyagi, the then DGM (contractual basis) that out of the bribe amount of Rs 40 lakh, Rs 5 lakh be transferred into the bank account of Sushanta Mallick, staff of the then Minister of State for Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises,” the FIR read.

Ashutosh Bandhopadhayay allegedly transferred Rs 5 lakh into the bank account of Sushanta Mallick in December 2016 when Babul Supriyo was serving as the minister.

CBI has booked Sushanta Mallick along with others on charges of criminal conspiracy and the Prevention of Corruption Act.

Babul Supriyo quit BJP and joined TMC in September 2021.

[freepressjournals]

Sethurathnam Ravi, From CA to Chairman of BSE

Sethurathnam Ravi, famously known as S Ravi is a chartered accountant who is based in India. He is also the managing partner as well as promoter of Ravi Rajan & Co. Besides this, S Ravi is also known as the former chairman of BSE or Bombay Stock Exchange. This BSE Chairman proudly holds his DISA or Diploma in Information Systems Audit.

Sethurathnam Ravi known as S Ravi, the former BSE chairman, started his career as an account and the managing partner of Ravi Rajan & Co. He has experience of holding several positions on the board of banks, financial institutions and asset management companies in the financial sector.

His qualifications include B. Sc., M. Com., FCA, DISA, Insolvency Professional and Associate Member of Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (CFE), USA. S Ravi with his vast knowledge and an in 31 years of experience has served in many vital roles. He had held board positions in Banking Sector, Mutual Funds, Home Finance, Capital Markets, Public Sector Companies and Public Limited Companies.

S Ravi BSE served as a director on boards of various companies such as UTI Trustee Company, S Ravi Financial Management Services, SMERA Ratings, SBI-SG Global Securities, IDBI Bank, STCI Finance, Tourism Finance Corporation of India and BOI Merchant Bankers. Besides, he was member of the working group, constituted by Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises, for suggesting possible modalities for creation of an institutional structure on corporate social responsibilities matters.

During his various board positions, S Ravi has been on various committees such as Audit, Strategic Revival, NPA Management, Risk Management, Shareholders/ Investors Grievance, Remuneration, Fraud Monitoring, Customer Service, Asset Liability Management, IT Strategy, Human Resources, Ethics & Financial Management, Dispute Resolution and Project Appraisal.

The former BSE chairman, was also a member of various professional and regulatory committees such as SEBI’s Takeover Panel, Task Force of Department of Public Enterprises – Govt. of India and ICAI’s Committee on Banking, Insurance & Pension, and Committee on Information Technology.

Eminent chartered accountant S Ravi was then appointed as the chairman of the leading stock exchange BSE in 2017 replacing Dhirendra Swarup. He was the public interest director at the BSE during the appointment as the BSE chairman. He exited role if Chairman, Public Interest Director, of BSE Limited from Nov’17 till Feb’19.

S Ravi, the former BSE chairman, is now the board or advisory panner of 10 institutions. He also heads his own firm founded in 1989, by Mr. S. Ravi, Ravi Rajan & Co. LLP is a Chartered Accountants firm with its head office in New Delhi and branches in Thane, Bengaluru, Noida & Faridabad.s

Presently, he is the chairman of UTI Trustee Pvt Limited and Tourism Finance Corporation of India and Independent Director on the board of Star union Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company Limited and Independent Director of Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company Ltd. Cum Chairman of the Audit Committee.

[chitkaraengineering]

Accelerating Innovation: M.Tech in Automobile Engineering in Collaboration with ARAI at Chitkara University

Introduction:

The automobile business is continually evolving in today's fast-paced world, spurred by technology breakthroughs, environmental concerns, and an increasing need for safer and more efficient vehicles. Chitkara University has partnered with the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) to offer an M.Tech programme in Automobile Engineering to satisfy these industry demands. This collaboration seeks to provide prospective engineers with the skills and knowledge needed to drive automotive innovation.

ARAI: Automotive Research and Development Pioneers:

The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) is an autonomous agency linked with the Government of India's Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises. Since its inception in 1966, ARAI has played an important role in advancing research, development, testing, and certification operations in the automobile industry.

 Chitkara University: An Engineering Excellence Centre:

Chitkara University, noted for its dedication to academic quality and industry-relevant education, has developed as a leading engineering college. Chitkara University provides a perfect atmosphere for students to thrive and develop their talents, with cutting-edge infrastructure, competent staff, and a strong emphasis on research and innovation.

M.Tech in Automobile Engineering: A Pathway to Excellence:

Chitkara University's M.Tech programme in Automobile Engineering, presented in conjunction with ARAI, is meant to equip students with a thorough understanding of automotive engineering concepts, design techniques, and advanced technologies. Vehicle dynamics, powertrain systems, automotive electronics, sustainable mobility, and vehicle safety are among the topics covered in the programme.

Curriculum that is Industry-Related:

The curriculum of the programme is intended to bridge the gap between academic and industry requirements. It combines hands-on teaching, industrial trips, and practical projects to give students hands-on experience with real-world automotive engineering difficulties. This strategy prepares graduates to tackle complicated problems and contribute meaningfully to the industry from the start.

Experienced Faculty and Industry Experts: 

Chitkara University's M.Tech programme benefits from the knowledge of highly skilled faculty members with considerable industry experience. Experts from ARAI and other automotive organisations are also invited to serve as guest instructors and share their practical experience and insights. This combination of academic and industrial experience allows students to get a comprehensive understanding of the topic while staying current on industry trends.

Conclusion

Finally, the M.Tech programme in Automobile Engineering at Chitkara University, in conjunction with ARAI, provides a unique chance for young engineers to excel in the modern automotive industry. Students are provided with the skills and knowledge needed to drive development and contribute to the long-term development of the automotive industry through a combination of industry-relevant curriculum, experienced instructors, possibilities for research, and cutting-edge facilities. Graduates of this programme have the opportunity to begin successful careers in top automotive organisations, thanks to strong industry links, internships, and placement support. Join the programme to hasten your path to a lucrative career in the automotive industry.

[vicky8588]

New Zealand Food Testing and Certification Market

Market Overview:

The "New Zealand Food Testing and Certification Market" is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8% during the forecasting period (2021 - 2028).

Food testing and certification has been an essential part of the food safety ecosystem in New Zealand. Dairy, fruits and vegetables, seafood and meat have been on the forefront of testing services in the country. The efforts laid by government bodies to ensure safety of food is promoting testing services. In New Zealand, the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is leading the food safety system and is responsible for the overall food safety in the country. All the regulatory testing services are performed by MPI approved laboratories.

New Zealand Food testing and certification market valued USD 438.48 million in 2029 and is estimated to reach USD XX million by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 8% during the forecast period (2020-2027)

Download free sample: https://www.datamintelligence.com/download-sample/new-zealand-food-testing-and-certification-market

Market Dynamics:

Rising food safety and quality concerns is driving testing services

The rising health consciousness among consumers and interest towards quality and safety of their diet is the key driving factor for food testing and certification market in New Zealand. Dairy industry is leading the market growth coupled with high safety requirements for products such as Cheese and Butter. The well-established dairy processing industry in the country has been a major adopter of certification services to promote their products in the global markets. The rapidly growing food industry is also supporting the growth of food safety testing and certification market. According to MPI statistics, the annual turnover of food manufacturing industry reached USD 49.4 billion in 2018. The large food exports from New Zealand is another key driver for the market growth. The exporters of dairy products, meat, honey and wine among other food categories are relying on testing and certification programs to gain trust and premium price for their products. New Zealand has been a major food exporter. The products originated in the country are reputed for their safety and quality across the globe. In 2019, the country exported food products of worth USD 32.7 billion representing one of the key export sectors

Market Segmentation:

– By Testing

·       Allergen Testing

·       GMO Testing

·       Heavy Metal Testing

·       Microbial Testing

·       Mycotoxin Testing

·       Dioxins and POPs

·       Residues and Contaminants Testing

·   ��   Others

– By Certification

·       BRC

·       IFC

·       ISO

·       Organic

·       Gluten-Free

·       Halal

·       Kosher

·       SQF

·       ISFSF/FAMI-QS

·       Others

Competitive Landscape:

Wide range of testing services made the market competitive

New Zealand food testing and certification market is highly competitive and consists of several global players. Although the market is fragmented, the market is dominated by companies such as SGS, Bureau Veritas, Hill Laboratories, AsureQuality and Intertek. Enterprises across industries, like food, utilities, and public sector, are still dependent on in-house testing and certification services. These companies are leveraging on strategic collaborative initiatives to increase their market share and increase their profitability. Most of these companies are focusing towards acquisition of new testing facilities and companies to widen their range of services. Several global players have acquired or partnered with New Zealand based testing companies to hold foothold in the high growth testing and certification market. In April 2016, AsureQuality partnered with Bureau Veritas to acquired Australian food testing firm Dairy Technical Services (DTS). The acquisition leveraged the testing potential of the companies particularly in the dairy segment. Eurofins acquired New Zealand based Agfirst Bay of Plenty Ltd. in July 2016. Agfirst Bay of Plenty Ltd. was a renowned provider of fruit maturity testing services in the country. Companies are focusing towards gaining various accreditations and technologies with respect to honey testing. For instance, Analytica is actively involved in research, and development of new honey tests.

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Types of NBFC Not to be Registered under RBI

Certain firms that provide financial services but do not need to be registered with the RBI are exempt. These firms are regulated by other financial sector authorities and are not needed to get an NBFC License from the RBI in order to avoid duplicate regulation. The types of nbfc are as follows:

The     Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India regulates     insurance companies (IRDA),

The     National Housing Bank regulates housing finance companies (NHB),

Stock     brokerage firms are governed by the Securities and Exchange Board of India     (SEBI), whereas merchant banking firms are governed by the Reserve Bank of     India (RBI).

SEBI     is the regulator of mutual funds.

SEBI     is the regulating authority for venture capital firms.

SEBI     is the regulator for companies that manage Collective Investment Schemes.

Chit     Fund Companies: These are governed by the Chit Fund Act as well as by the     different state governments.

The     Ministry of Corporate Affairs regulates Nidhi Companies (MCA).

Types of NBFC

 Deposit Accepting or Non-Deposit Accepting NBFC Registration is available. If they are Non-Deposit Accepting NBFCs, the suffix ND is added to the end of their name, as in NBFC-ND. Systemically Important NBFCs are those with assets of Rs.100 crore or more. The different sorts of NBFCs have been designated this way because they can have an influence on the country's financial stability. NBFC-NDSIs are Non-Deposit Accepting Systemically Important NBFCs.

They may be further classified into the following eight groups under the broad categories of Deposit Accepting and Non-Accepting NBFCs:

 1. Investment & Credit Company

An ICC-NBFC is any financial institution that conducts asset finance, the providing of finance, whether via loans or advances or otherwise, for any activity other than its own, and the acquisition of securities as its primary business. And it is not one of the other categories of NBFCs described by the RBI in any of its Directives.

(a) Asset Finance Company: As its primary business, an AFC is a financial organisation that finances diverse assets for individuals and enterprises to promote productive/economic activity. Automobiles, tractors, machinery, heavy industrial equipment, huge power generating sets, lathe machines, earthmoving & material handling equipment, production & farming equipment, self-propelled vehicles, and general-purpose industrial machines are examples.

The revenue from these should not be less than 60% of the total assets.

 (b) Investment Company: The primary business of a financial institution is the acquisition of securities. That is, it collects money from the general public and invests it in various assets and financial goods.

The remaining profit is allocated to shareholders after the firm deducts its operational costs from the achieved profit.

Some investment companies include Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company, IDFC, and HDFC mutual funds.

 (c) Loan Company: NBFC – Except for AFC, LC is a financial entity that provides loans for a variety of purposes. The loan is being issued for uses other than assets, such as working capital finance, etc. However, housing finance firms are included.

Some examples of NBFC – LC are LIC Finance Ltd, PNB Housing Finance Firm, and HDFC.

 2. Infrastructure Finance Company

It     is an NBFC that invests over 3/4 of its total assets in infrastructure     loans.

Has     a Net Owned Fund of at least Rs. 300 crores

Has     a credit rating of at least "A" or a comparable CRAR of at least     15%

GMR     Infrastructure Ltd, Hindustan Construction Company, and other companies     are examples.

3. Systemically Important Core Investment Company

An NBFC which:

At     least 90% of its total assets are held in the form of investments in     shares, stocks, debt, or loan group firm.

Within     a period of not more than ten years from the date of issuance, 60 percent     of the 90 percent should be invested in equity shares or those that     compulsorily convert later in equity shares.

Does     not trade in its interests in group businesses' shares, debt, or loans,     save through block sales for the purpose of dilution or disinvestment.

It     is not engaged in any of the activities listed in sections 45(c) or 45(f)     of the RBI Act of 1934.

The     asset is worth at least Rs. 100 crore.

That     takes government funding.

4. Infrastructure Debt Fund in Types of NBFC

Bonds are used by IDFs to raise funds for long-term infrastructure projects. The bonds are issued in several currencies and have a minimum maturity of 5 years for investors. It makes it easier for long-term debt to flow into infrastructure projects. IDF-NBFCs can only be sponsored by IFC-NBFCs.

5. Microfinance Institution

NBFC-MFI     is a Non-Deposit Accepting NBFC (ND-NBFC) with at least 85 percent of its     assets in the form of qualifying assets that meet the following criteria:

loan     issued by it to a borrower with an annual income of less than Rs. 60,000     in rural households or less than Rs. 1,20,000 in urban and semi-urban     households, the loan amount is not more than Rs. 35,000 in the first cycle     and Rs. 50,000 in subsequent cycles,

the     borrower's total indebtedness is not more than Rs. 50,000, d. the loan     length is not less than 24 months for loan amounts in excess of Rs.     15,000, with prepayment without penalty, e. the loan is granted without     any security,

The     total number of loans made for income creation must equal at least 75% of     the total amount of loans made by MFIs.

The loan     can be repaid in weekly, biweekly, or monthly installments, at the     borrower's discretion.

Some examples include Bandhan Financial Service Ltd and Ujjivan Financial Service.

 6. Factors as Types of NBFC

This form of NBFC is uncommon in India. Such     businesses typically purchase loans or advances at a heavily reduced rate     from lenders and then change the debtor's payback schedule to guarantee     easy settlement while earning a little profit.

Normal loan by a bank against the security of     receivables, etc. is not included.

A minimum NOF of Rs. 5 Crore is required for     an NBFC-Factoring firm. Furthermore, its financial assets in the factoring     company should account for at least 75% of its overall assets. And its     income from the factoring industry should not be less than 75% of its     total income.

7. Mortgage Company in Types of NBFC

NBFC-MGCs     are financial institutions for whom at least 90% of the business turnover     is mortgage guarantee, or 90% of the gross revenue is from the mortgage     guarantee business, or the NOF is Rs. 100 crores.

8. Non- operative Financial Holding Company

It is a distinct type of NBFC, consisting of the establishment of a new bank by the entrepreneurs. It is a non-operative financial holding company that is completely owned by the corporation. The RBI has granted permission under the appropriate regulatory prescription. To establish or maintain a bank as well as another financial business.

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Passenger Boarding Bridges Market Research Report

Global Passenger Boarding Bridges Market

The GMI Research forecasts that the Passenger Boarding Bridges Market is witnessing an upsurge in demand over the forecast period. This is mainly due to intensifying government support for development of airports, amplifying expenditure airside infrastructure by airport operators and constant investment by major market players.

Request for a FREE Sample Report on Passenger Boarding Bridges Market

Introduction of the Passenger Boarding Bridges Market

Passenger Boarding Bridge (PBB) is an enclosed and elevated passageway which stretches from an airport terminal gate to an airplane. It is mainly used to offer a fast, effective, and safe way for the passenger to move while boarding. It is also used at seaport for loading and unloading the containers from sea to vessel.

Key Players of the Global Passenger Boarding Bridges Market:

UACJ Corporation

Elvalhalcor Hellenic Copper and Aluminium Industry S.A.

NALCO

Aluminum Corporation Of China

Constellium

Hindalco Industries Limited

Novelis Inc.

Arconic

Norsk Hydro ASA

Alcoa Corporation

Passenger Boarding Bridges Market Dynamics (including market size, share, trends, forecast, growth, forecast, and industry analysis)

The global passenger boarding bridge market is mainly driven by mounting number of brownfield and greenfield airports, augmenting investment by government for the establishment of new airports and the expanding air travel along with the rise in tourism. Also, these boarding bridges help to cautiously and effectively board the passengers from airport to flight. In accordance with the the Air transport Action Group Organization Report, more than 4.5 Billion air passengers travelled through different airlines globally, which resulted in enormous demand to the passenger to the airplane from the airport and vice versa. Thus, to address the rising passenger traffic at airports, airlines have proposed to establish and procure these passenger boarding bridges to reside more passengers on board in single trips.

Furthermore, the increasing investment by leading market players and the government bodies in novel airports to enhance air travels effectuated by organizing greenfield projects to expand the aerospace will further stimulate the passenger boarding bridge market size. For example, The Indian Airports Authority, in 2018, introduced a greenfield airport project at Hollongi, Arunachal Pradesh, India, established by India’s Union Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region. The project is likely to be accomplished by 2022.

Additionally, the accelerating trade activities from Asia-Pacific to developed nations and the growing programmes by government have proliferated the market size. Miami-Dade County, Florida, in 2020, is publicizing an Adelte Seaport Hydra MS2 maritime passenger boarding bridge through the government reserve auction site on GovDeals.com. Miami-Dade County, FL is a seller of GovDeals of passenger boarding bridges and an extensive range of transportation, heavy equipment and other surplus property items.

As per the passenger boarding bridge market research, the extended life of aerobridge needs huge capital investment which is difficult to obtain for low-cost airlines because of their excessive operational expenditure, thereby restricting the market growth. Moreover, the widespread and sudden outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic has temporarily terminated the construction activities owing to the travel regulation imposed by various countries. Also, the curtailments in air passengers have persuaded investors postpone the embellishment activities.

Passenger Boarding Bridges Market Segmentation: Segmentation by Bridge Type

Commuter

Apron

T-Bridge

Nose

Over-The-Wing Bridge

Others

Segmentation by Elevation System

Hydraulic

Electro-Mechanical

Segmentation by Foundation

Moveable

Fixed

Segmentation by Application

Airport

Seaport

Segmentation by Region:

North America

Asia Pacific

Europe

RoW

United States of America

Canada

China

Japan

India

Rest of APAC

United Kingdom

Germany

France

Spain

Rest of Europe

Brazil

South Africa

Saudi Arabia

UAE

Rest of the world (remaining countries of the LAMEA region)

About GMI Research

GMI Research is a market research and consulting company that offers business sights and market research reports for every enterprise, including small & medium enterprises and large organizations. Our research team helps the clients to understand the impact of market dynamics such as market size, share, drivers, growth opportunities, and other aspects. We have a team of analysts and industry experts who conduct market intelligence studies to ensure relevant and fact-based research across a wide range of sectors such as FMCG, Technology, Energy, Healthcare, and other industries. We collect relevant information about the industry using both internal and external databases. Our main focus is to keep our clients abridged of the emerging opportunities and challenges in a wide range of industries. We provide step-by-step assistance to our client through strategic and consulting services to reach a managerial and actionable decision. Featured in the ‘Top 20 Most Promising Market Research Consultants’ list of Silicon India Magazine in 2018, we at GMI Research are always looking forward to helping businesses stay ahead of the curve.

Media Contact Company Name: GMI RESEARCH Contact Person: Sarah Nash Email: enquiry@gmiresearch.com Phone: Europe – +353 1 442 8820; US – +1 860 881 2270 Address: Dublin, Ireland Website: www.gmiresearch.com

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