How difficult is it to ask questions? Framing interrogations is easy. The real task is confronted when one becomes answerable. And what happened when the AAP became accountable to the residents of Delhi, we all know. I too have questions. ‘Why didn’t the party seek public opinion prior to quitting?’, ‘Was Lokpal Bill more vital than water pipelines?’, ‘Who would be charged for the expenses of re-polls?’ The list is lengthy. Let’s discuss on more relevant matters rather. It is tough to understand that the person who alleges to provide the most uncorrupt Government of all times does not favor stability. The recent interview while on the way to Banaras captured the thoughts of Kejriwal who believes that none of the political parties would achieve the requisite numbers and re-polls would occur within a year. Are Indians so much waiting for the yet-again AK-led Government ignoring the predictions of Nomura and Bloomberg, which say that investments would boom and rupee would reach its lowest per U.S. Dollar in case India is led by a stable government and precisely, if led by Narendra Modi?

Quite often, Arvind Kejriwal questions the vision, decision-making, objectives, and governance of other political groups. The recent attempt was 17 questions which he desired to be answered by Narendra Modi. Let me mention some of the authentic rebuttals of the Gujarat Government. With reference to the Land Acquisition policy of the state, it is claimed to be the finest and backed by the approval of the Supreme Court of India. The response enlightens the fact that the land of a farmer is acquired upon consent and market prevailing rates are paid as consideration. The baseless figure of 5000 claimed by Kejriwal regarding the farmers who committed suicide is a core lie as one farmer committed suicide in the last 10 years due to crop disaster. Kejriwal alleged that the Modi-led Government would favor FDI in retail; however the response of the state government confirms that the BJP opposes any such policy. The blatant lie of Kejriwal regarding the closure of 60,000 SME units in Gujarat has been exposed with the fact that of 0.51 million SME units registered in the state 95 percent are operational. The spokesperson of the state government added that Kejriwal is struggling to manipulate facts and figures so as to mislead the public and gain illicit profile-raising.

Rather than concentrating and delivering a model that was promised to the supporters of the Anna’s Movement against corruption, the AAP leaders have involved themselves in controversies and forbidden attempts to make news headlines. AK has been frequently alleging to devote his life for the prosperity of the nation. Was quitting from Delhi to fight Narendra Modi part of Kejriwal’s martyrdom? Another leader of the party, Prashant Bhushan favored referendum on the presence of army in Kashmir. Is it so easy to talk and challenge the national propositions? The controversial comment of Kejriwal wherein he threatened media persons to be sent to jail in case AAP-led Government comes into the picture, Kumar Vishwas’s jibe at nurses from Kerala, and Praveen Kumar’s statement favoring emergency and hampering the dignity of the natives of Delhi are a few instances that should call for strict reactions from the Election Commission of India. In case none of the above is a key offence, displaying parts of Kashmir as portions of Pakistan on the official website of AAP must be viewed as a severe act of dishonor.

It has been well said that in case the engine has commanded on a wrong route, the coaches must separate themselves. Same is the case with the mass that relied on the words and promises of Arvind Kejriwal. The party workers in Uttar Pradesh were dissatisfied with the way the leaders handled the process of declaring candidatures. Personalities, who have been a step ahead of Kejriwal if social and political reforms are talked about, seem to play no role in framing the byelaws and procedures. In this context, Medha Patkar, Yogendra Yadav, and Anand Kumar are superseded by Kumar Vishwas, Sanjay Singh, and Manish Sisodia. While everyone knew the outcome of Kejriwal’s attempt of probing the residents of Banaras prior to declaring his candidature, can no one comprehend his intentions? The democracy and integrity of India now calls for the intelligence of voters who have the ultimate power. Rather than being influenced by the so-called alleged honest leaders, we can surely rely on past deliveries of candidates. Definitely, the real command rests with people of the nation, who in turn must prove their capability to elect the most deserving rather than the most demanding.

In the same context, the Government, Home Ministry, and the Judiciary bodies must intervene with a view to protecting the unity and integrity of the nation. Suggesting ways like referendum on issues related to the security of the parts of Indian soil must not only be curtailed, such spokesman must also be convicted under the prevailing laws. While Maoists and extremists are trying their best to ruin the roots of democracy, political parties like AAP are no way distinct. To facilitate fair participation of the mass in the process of electing MPs and MLAs, leaders who resort to blaming candidates with deceitful liabilities must be debarred. Plus, strict disciplinary actions must be ensured so as to curb such measures and prevent candidates from gaining publicity by illicit means. Political groups like the BJP should endeavor to uncover the dual characters of such personalities and parties, which in turn would help the voters take responsible and unbiased decision. Remember, the democratic form of governance is not just accountable to the citizens of the nation; it is also responsible to bring in prosperity and economic viability. This calls for a stable Government at the center that can discharge duties without unjustified intervention of regional and communal forces.

How often do we see political leaders talk about or even remember the promises made in the election manifesto of their party? And, have we ever tried to question or evaluate the works undertaken by any Government with respect to the declarations made prior to forming the Government? To be honest, not many of us seem to care about the assurances given in the manifesto of the political groups. Definitely, we are bound to believe that the booklet with handsome promises is of no significance.

To discuss further, it is vital to understand what an election manifesto represents. The manifesto holds the intentions, views, and goals of the political group in a published format. Plus, it promotes new ideas and depicts the vision to bring in changes which the publishing party feels are necessary for the prosperity of general public. In other words, the manifesto must reflect the real intentions of the political party and the assurances made must be realistic and feasible. The picture here doesn’t seem to be the same. Let us now evaluate the manifestos and the actual works undertaken by the political parties.

The state elections of Delhi witnessed the emergence of a political party that claimed to eradicate corruption and other social, economic and political curses once it comes to power. ‘Jan Lokpal by December 29’, ‘700 liters of free water’, ‘Commando force for women safety’, and ‘Better health and education’ are some of the promises made in the party’s election manifesto. Now, I feel they forgot to add ‘Terms and Conditions apply’. While studying management, we are taught about planning for contingencies and surprises. However, the AAP did not make any strategy in case a coalition Government comes into the picture. So, we should understand why the party couldn’t introduce the Jan Lokpal Bill by December 29. We should also not fall into the descriptive definition of what ‘better health and education’ stands for. As for AAP, such words and assurances were enough to lure voters and gather support.

The Manifesto of the Congress party for the upcoming polls again talks about strengthening and uplifting the backward classes, poor, and minority. Plus, it promises adequate health, accommodation, and pension services to 700 million people. Can anyone ask the party leaders how would they bring in such reforms? And, when the task of ruling the nation was undertaken by the Congress for almost 60 years, shouldn’t these issues been sorted out much earlier than after 67 years of democracy?

It is easy to make promises and even easier for the political parties to overlook these. The instructions of the Supreme Court and the guidelines of the Election Commission in no way are able to restrict parties from luring voters with dishonest assurances. This calls for stringent measures and the setting up of a legislative body that must assess the performance of the Government in view of the promises made in the election manifesto. Political parties and their leaders must be accountable to deliver what was assured to the voters and any deviations must be penalized. Surely, the manifestos would reflect the real intents of the parties post such measures, which in turn would ensure adequate reforms and elevated prosperity.

The prime ministerial candidate of the BJP is turning every stone to ensure that the party fetches the requisite numbers. We can witness Narendra Modi moving from one state to the other so as to interact with the locals. Something, however, doesn’t seem to be favoring. News channels and news dailies are packed with frequently arising concerns related to the distribution of Lok Sabha tickets within the BJP. Though, absolute contentment of supporters and leaders can never be achieved while declaring candidature, the case with BJP predicts a serious concern. Bollywood actor and close to Modi, Paresh Rawal was preferred over 7-times Member of Parliament, Harin Pathak. It has been acclaimed that this MP from Ahmedabad East and another leader from Bhavnagar, Rajendrasinh Rana have been rejected ticket with a view to close timeworn chapters, without taking note of their credibility and contribution. A newer version of the BJP is ready to supersede. The question is, ‘Is the older version really outdated and cannot anymore convince the voters?’

Be it the controversy of senor most leaders including L K Advani and Jaswant Singh, or the vacating of seats by Murli Manohar Joshi and Lalji Tandon for the so-called youth-brigade, the inner environment of the party poses stringent concerns. While the beginning saw events like declaration of Modi as the prime ministerial candidate, immense support from distinct parts of the nation for Modi, and clear majority to the NDA alliance in pre-poll surveys, the end is not promising. Definitely, the BJP needs much more sturdy and appreciative measures to call in voters for support. Plus, the vague threat posed by the newly emerged AAP also needs to be addressed. The list of offences within the BJP is endless. Protests by party workers on the occasion of declaration of candidatures for UP; concerns raised by a leader from Bihar, Giriraj Singh; agitation of supporters of Surya Pratap Shahi over the declaration of Kalraj Mishra from Deoria; replacement of Lalmuni Chowbe by Ashwini Chowbe in Baksar; and last minute finalization of out-station candidates add to the worries of the party as well as Modi. The prime ministerial candidate must also comprehend that in case of requisite numbers falling short of 200, the alliances may favor another BJP leader for the post of PM.

It is considerable to note that the general public that viewed BJP as a changed political entity with lesser inner conflicts is distressed to notice the last minute disturbances. Not only the contesting parties fetching positive waves from such disorders, Modi must take note of the fact that anything less than majority could bother his candidature too. Alliance with Ramvilas Paswan in Bihar though was a move to attract backward class of voters, not much profit seems to occur. Adding to the chaos was the incoming of Ramkripal Yadav, former leader of RJD; declaration of corrupt faces as party representatives; and giving away of tickets to migrants from other political groups. The circumstances that once looked favoring BJP and Modi are not the same. The prediction of just 2 seats to JD (U) and rest to BJP in Bihar has changed to 7 seats to JD (U). Sooner the issues are sorted out, lesser is the damage caused. Senior members must be paid relevant heed to and their contributions must be appreciated. Plus, the pulse of the voters must be recognized and appropriate candidates must be given the opportunity to represent the party. Out-station candidates must be restricted to minimum and local party representatives should be encouraged.

Good to hear few strong words to the country that has been continuously endeavoring to hinder the restrictions placed by geographical borders. Until when would we bear the illicit acts of our neighboring nations? A tough stand needs to be adopted, sooner than later. The Prime Ministerial candidate of the BJP recently warned China from making attempts to get hold of the land that constitutes to form Arunachal Pradesh. Instead, he suggested, that the neighboring nation must concentrate on developing economy and industrial estate. The response from the Foreign Ministry spokesperson of China claimed peace at the border and agreed that the issue can surely be resolved by a few rounds of discussions. Foreign policy is an integral and inseparable part of the national policy adopted by any Union Government. Though we witnessed the Congress party making appreciable amendments so as to ensure globalization and liberalization, not much was delivered in terms of protecting the nation from consistent terrorist attacks and infringements with the land of the country.

Is at all such a sturdy attitude necessary when the world is favoring resolution of disputes over talks? It is considerable to note that the Chinese troops had set up a camp inside the Indian Territory in April 2013, approximately 10 km within the border, which in turn called for a 3-week standoff by the armies of the two nations. Further, it was reported that the neighboring nation infiltrated the Indian Territory for more than 150 times in the initial seven months of 2013. The month of June last year saw the illicit deed of Chinese troops when they not just caused damage to the camera set up by the Indian army at the Line of Actual Control, but also threatened the locals to vacate the place. The state is definitely alarming and calls for stringent measures by the Government officials. Our attitude of being lenient and non-responsive has led the neighboring nations believe that the nation is incapable to deal with such issues. A strong message and subsequent hard-hitting measures is the need of the hour.

It has continuously been talked about that the upcoming polls are distinct in many ways. Participation of first-time voters, shift of minds towards inflation and corruption, rise of new political groups, and visible downfall in the reputation of the current Union Government are the noticeable happenings. The nation is also expecting constructive amendments to the foreign policy and the way in which events like infiltration and terrorism are being responded to. Surely, the youth of today is vigilant and informed about the acts of neighboring nations which are attempted to obstruct peace and unity. Political parties must, therefore, ensure that the task of comprehending and suggesting the course of action during such events must be handled by an expert committee and the proposals thereafter shall be taken due note of. The new Union Government post polls shall accept the accountability of protecting the land and inhabitants of the country.

Definitely, the most talked about factor in the upcoming polls has been ‘corruption’. The impact is so prominent and sturdy that a newly emerged political party, which claimed to wipe out this curse from roots, did not just fetch attention rather was successful in forming the Government. Radio stations and TV channels are flooded with advertisements wherein political groups are promising to deliver anti-corrupt environment post elections. The movement of Anna in support of Jan Lokpal Bill can surely be looked upon as the foremost turning point. Extensive coverage by media, vigorous participation by youth, and consensus among people from distinct parts of the nation alarmed the Government to pursue this concern on a serious note. Is corruption the most limiting factor in the prosperity of the nation? Numerous surveys have uncovered the fact that corruption is the defining factor in 2014 polls superseding factors like unemployment, inflation, women safety, and unequal distribution of income. So, a comprehensive understanding is a necessity so as to welcome reforms in this respect.

Most of us relate corruption either with the unlawful money asked by public sector officials, or with Government scams for instance 2G and Coalgate. An apt understanding is therefore the need of the hour. We can differentiate the forms of corruption as (1) Pity monetary favors alleged by officials of distinctive government departments; (2) Illicit money for favoring the breach of laws (e.g. money in lieu of penalty for violating transport regulations); (3) unlawful acts of associations and trade unions (e.g. inflating the prices of medicines by the union of medicine distributors); and (4) Scams of Union/ State Governments (e. g. NRHM, Taj Corridor, and Commonwealth). With a precise distinction of forms of corruption, it becomes uncomplicated to frame and implement relevant measures. While the awareness and resilient approach of the general public is the pre-requisite to overcome corruption in government departments, the corrupt practices of MPs and MLAs can be restricted by framing stringent anti-corruption laws. Similarly, the regulatory authorities must implement strict competitive regulations to restrict unions from undertaking corrupt practices.

The most prominent of all is the cognizance and participation of the public at large. It cannot be denied that we are tempted to pay illicit money so as to render speediness to our applications. It is worthy to note that many of our social and economic drawbacks can be eliminated if we can successfully overcome the monster of corruption. With proper allocation of resources, the industrial backbone of the nation will be strengthened, which in turn would create immense employment prospects. The real beneficiary will be the one who is the most deserving if the law-makers put in place laws that can rigorously punish corrupt officials as well as ministers. Let us all unite and demand for stringent auditing procedures and bylaws that can uncover the wrongs committed at distinct levels. This definitely would be a valid extension to the Right to Information Act.

Another noticeable form of corruption occurs as an outcome of ineffective platforms for incorporating a new venture. It is an established fact that a nation can ensure the prosperity of the inhabitants by providing an uncomplicated route for setting up industrial units. With the enhancement of the economy, consumers are delivered with competitive prices and superior services on one hand, while generation of employment prospects is ensured on the other. Numerous registrations, licenses, certifications, and permits not just increase the burden of starting a new venture, but also restrict entrepreneurs from business expansions. Herein too, the officials of the departments look forward to collecting illicit money in lieu of fast processing of applications and grant of licenses in cases of imperfect documentations. Businesses are unable to find an alternative and hence the ultimate sufferers are the job-seekers and consumers. Common window service for the processing of applications along with a definite time period and provision for penalty in cases of delay can be an impeccable solution.

I would conclude with the fact that unawareness of rights and duties are prominent bottlenecks in the way of development of society. Laws, enactments, acts, and notifications are not only challenging to interpret, they also lack accessibility to the general public. Not many of us are aware of our rights under the Right to Information Act. Corporate entities, too, undergo troubles while formulating plans and budgets in view of prevailing laws and acts. Simplification and ease of approachability are much needed. Corruption follows unawareness. Governments and local authorities must endeavor to communicate the rights of every citizen as laid down in the Constitution, and in distinct Acts. Plus, laws related to income tax, corporate tax, sales tax, customs, and excise must be revised based on the suggestions of experts and thereafter easy interpretations must be made available. These measures call in for vision and intellectuality, and we expect that the new Union Government post polls would make every possible attempt to ensure the contentment and development of every resident of India.

Polls of 2014- Leaders endeavoring to fetch the requisite numbers, voters too are motivated towards extending support to those who represent honesty. The upcoming Lok Sabha polls are not the same as always. Anna’s movement against corruption, the gathering for ‘Damini’, and the rise of a new political group that alleges to be the most uncorrupt have definitely uplifted the political milieu. Leaders, for the very first time, are stressing the need to eradicate corruption. ‘Integrity’ is the factor that everyone is talking about. Is honesty the only aspect that can bring in the reforms and revolutions we are looking forward to? With a new group of people representing themselves as history-makers and the most sincere candidates, what shall be the approach of the voter? Remember, not everyone alleging to be God can be followed. Honesty is never through words, it calls for acts. Now, what shall the voters consider?

As declared by the Constitution, we have considered India as a secular and sovereign state that unites diverse religions, cultures, and communities- A fact we feel proud of. Along with defining and laying down the principles for the formation of the Government, our Constitution also defines the responsibilities of the elected Government. Prosperity of all is a part of this, which in turn calls for equivalent distribution of income, alike prospects of employment, and policies aimed at betterment of society as a whole. Shall we not consider India as an Economy then? – An economy that shall aim at maximizing profits and providing the dignity of being employed to all. Definitely, this shifts our basis of understanding to a distinctive ground. Will mere honesty-alleging candidates be competent enough in handling such a large-scale economy that is accountable to billions of citizens? Yes, we want to shut every door for corruption; however other vital factors shall too be paid heed to.

What should we expect from our political entrepreneurs? Vision, administrating capabilities, unbiased attitude, and swift decision-making potential can be the answer. This reminds me of the incidence when the nation was struggling from economic crisis in the 90s and the then Finance Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh initiated liberalization of industries with a view to providing broader investment and capital prospects to privately-held ventures. The outcomes were surely favoring. Aptitude and ability to comprehend the global economic conditions are what make a leader an entrepreneur. As voters, we must consider the fact that we are a part of an economic society. Prosperity follows fiscal viability. The Constitution has recognized the vitality of employment and states that the dignity of every citizen is backed by the capability of earning livelihood. The status of being an economy is thus inseparable.

Should we then consider just the alleged-honest candidature, or shall we weigh our candidates on factors including intelligence, economical awareness, vision, and governance capability? Remember, governance is not that easy. The one, who is the most honest of all, can’t surely be the most capable administrator. Diplomacy is inseparable to leading. While we are part of a nation with multiplicities of castes, we also represent a nation that comprises of groups that look forward to perquisites without pains. The voters can with no trouble be influenced by promising materialistic benefits and policies favoring their particular community. The instability of past Union Governments is the outcome. The resultant outcomes are inflation, corruption, misuse of investigating agencies, and special packages to particular states. Voters, remember, we all constitute to build a nation and the prosperity of the nation would mean development of all.

Are we aware of the fact that private sector investment has dipped consistently since 2007, the figures of Sensex and Nifty aren’t promising, and the Indian currency reached its peak against U.S. Dollar a few months ago? Nomura, a prominent global financial institution, considers that the Modi-led Union Government in India would boom investments; the rupee would stand below 60 per dollar by June 2014; and the Gross Domestic Product of India will be above 6 percent in the financial year 2015-16. Though my words could be seen as favoring the Prime Ministerial candidate of the BJP, my sheer motive is to let voters recognize the urge of a stable economy. The voters, along with measuring the candidates on grounds of integrity, must also look forward to extending support to leaders that can bring in economic reforms at the earliest. Plus, never forget, governance demands sacrifices, diplomacy, and an unfair attitude at times. Administrating India is complex. The one who can deliver prosperity and dignity for all shall be voted for.

The Constitution of India paved way for the Legislature to frame laws with a view to delivering a prosperous and peaceful state. The Union Governments acted fairly to enrich the country with distinctive laws that can safeguard the interests of public at large. The Code of Civil Procedure and the Code of Criminal Procedure are a part of this module. The supreme law-making body is expected to comprise of people with vision, aptitude, and above all integrity. The irony is that approximately 30 percent of the constituents of the 15^th Lok Sabha were those accused of acute violations of law- forgery, theft, murder, and much more. Is the nation, which promises to be the most developed state 10 years down the line, anticipating reforms from such members of the Parliament? We have seen cash floating in the House with MPs accused of accepting bribe to withdraw support; severe cases of corruption; charges of rapes; and allegations of encouraging communal riots. What else are we waiting for? While three wings have been bearing on their shoulders the accountability to put across a state that treats all citizens alike and punishes the ones who hinder peace and sovereignty, not much has been delivered. The Judiciary has repeatedly made constructive attempts to uphold the dignity of the Parliament; however the Legislature and the Executive wings have been supportive to law-breakers.

With unanimous approach, the members of Parliament have trimmed down the principles laid down by the Judiciary; and the Executive wing on the other hand cannot be expected to do much as it is dependant on the Legislative body. Misuse of investigating agencies, elimination of charges against those involved in communal violence, and extended support to hardcore criminals have been the steps undertaken recently by the Union as well as distinctive State Governments. Misuse of power is easy and evasion is much easier. Let’s talk about the solutions now. Voters have immense power to curb the influence and presence of law-breakers in the Parliament. Awareness and partition from self-centered perquisites would definitely bring in the much-awaited reforms. Why are we voting for those who have been charged with grave offences and can surely commit more with our support? Have we been tempted towards policies and packages for our particular community/ caste? YES. Remember, the leaders who have been the key drawbacks in the development and growth of the nation, have been backed by the support of society. To welcome change, cast your vote, however restrain from voting for your caste in view of materialistic perks. Let simplicity and commitment win the race in the upcoming polls.

Extensive works shall be undertaken by the political parties, of which the most important is to nominate reliable candidates. Why despite of distinct evidences, candidates are being nominated for elections? Shouldn’t the constitution of political parties be drafted in such a manner so as to shut every door for these leaders? What should then be the criteria of selection? Education teaches morality, if not completely, to some extent. Why shouldn’t a questionnaire be prepared and responses gathered from prospective candidates? Educational background, social achievements, vision, and the goals after being selected should be asked. People with lesser academic knowledge can surely be given a chance by paying heed to past social works undertaken. The parties must make their selection criteria transparent, which will also assure that the chosen ones receive admirable response from the public during polls. Post winning, the Government must convince people with their hard work, and not through benefits showered on particular class/ religion of voters. MPs that are charged with incidences of breaking the law of the state must be delivered with a Show Cause notice as to why their membership should not be terminated. Productive measures shall be resorted to with a view to upholding the dignity of the House.

Restricted prospects of employment, lack of medical services, degradation of farmers, deficiency of adequate drinking water and electricity, and religion-biased policies. The past 67 years of Indian governance have delivered something that the constitution-makers and freedom fighters did not assume of. Though many houses are lightened and are connected to the world via internet, it is not rare to meet Indians who struggle hard to manage food for the day. Industrialists and politicians represent an India with multiplicity of resources; however the same resources become deficit when the welfare of the ones who are deprived of basic needs is talked about. The IT industry of India has multiplied investment by way of outsourcing; however the farmers are still hunting for their payments. The ones who know the exact number of literates in India could never be able to answer the number of farmers who commit suicide. When the entire nation stands together to seek safety and empowerment of women, somewhere a girl is being raped.

Partial prosperity. Schemes for those who can help the political parties gather the requisite numbers to form Government. The state is alarming, definitely. Vision and development of all is much-needed. When most of the political parties are employing every measure to lure particular castes, the stake of Akhil Bharat Hindu Mahasabha (HMS) seems much clear and progressive. The foremost measure includes announcing India as a Hindu Nation. The scheme does not demand the compulsion to follow the Hindu religion, rather favoring of particular religions/ castes should be prohibited. Representation of India as a strict Hindu nation would serve multiple purposes. While the past Governments were busy implementing policies that have worked for the betterment of particular religions, the HMS opposes reservation and religion-oriented schemes. HMS holds a clear view against the conversion of religion, considering the same as the sole basis for partition post independence, and hence should be prohibited so as to ensure brotherhood and world peace.

To start with, let me make you aware of the presence of HMS in India. Founded in the year 1914 in Amritsar, the early leaders included Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, much acclaimed for founding the Benaras Hindu University, Babu Navin Chand Rai, Rai Bahadur Chandranath Mitra, Motilal Nehru, Babu Rajendra Prasad, and Lala Lajpat Rai. Swami Shradhanand, Bhai Paramanand, Dr. Munje, Veer Savarkar, and other prominent personalities guided HMS as President at distinct times. HMS identified India as ‘Hindu Rashtra’ and endeavored for the primacy of Hindu culture, religion, and heritage. The prominent leader, Vinayak Damodar Savarkar favored the abolition of caste system and endeavored for equivalent rights to minority castes. HMS leaders appreciated freedom, however did not welcome the partition. Hence, they protested the verdict of the Indian National Congress and declared 3rd July 1947 as ‘Black Day’. Though HMS did not actively participate in the Indian politics, its leaders have held a dominant view to enrich the people of India. HMS has put forward some positive views for the upcoming polls, which are expected to form a part of the manifesto of leading political parties. Enumerated hereunder are the measures that can bring in the much-awaited prosperity with alike distribution of income among citizens.

1. Analogous rights and prospects should be made available to every citizen of India irrespective of the religion/ caste to which the person belongs. The Constitution of India should prevail over any religious laws. 2. The construction of Ram Mandir should be looked upon as priority. Plus, Krishan Janambhoomi and Kashi should also be treated with same privilege. 3. Right to efficient medical services is fundamental and should be made accessible at any cost. Every citizen should be provided with adequate infrastructure and free of cost services so as to ensure that health factor is never compromised. 4. Education for every child should be ensured. It is a common belief that the society with educated people is less vulnerable to communal threats and is more efficient to produce opportunities and prosperity. 5. With immense production of electricity, every house and cottage should be lightened. For this, every village should be constituted as a separate entity. 6. Welfare of farmers should be backed by regular supply of subsidized water and electricity. Plus, appropriate rates should be offered to farmers for their produce. Judicial services at village level should ensure fast and easy resolution of disputes. 7. While downfall in the level of underground water is a grave concern, rain water harvesting should be paid heed to. 8. Cows should be declared as national mother, and any incidence of cow-murdering should be treated alike human assassination, which would serve distinct purposes including abundant availability of unadulterated milk.

9. Establishment of small and medium enterprises at village levels should be looked at as a way to resolve the concerns of unemployment. For this, strict regulations should be in place and areas that seek urgent welfare should be indicated. 10. One of the most vital policies includes providing the mother and child access to free of cost milk for 1 year post delivery. Plus, subsidy on milk should be looked upon as a measure to build a healthier nation. 11. The foreign policy of India should be amended to the extent that the neighboring nations get a clear view of nation’s stake on terrorism and illegal infiltration. Nations that have regarded India as a source of their existence and prosperity should be given special privileges. 12. Dishonest amendments made to the historical monuments, culture, and religious facts should be corrected so as to put forward an honest picture of India. 13. Education for all with common structure and syllabus is the key to success and peace. Hence, children should be taught the same moral values and academic knowledge so as to trim down the ill-effects of communal teachings. 14. To provide stable income to every household, 10 crore employment opportunities should be made available. For those who are illiterate, prospects like caretakers of cows and construction of buildings should be looked for. 15. The owners of sources of natural resources should have limited sharing in profits. For betterment of farmers, scientific ways of farming should be adopted without delay. 16. Cow milk and yogurt should be declared as national drinks. Plus, milk should be made available at 2 rupees per 250 ml to every citizen.

The nation which has been a spectator to Governments favoring special religions now seeks for tougher reforms. The BJP, which promised to be a political family of reformers, can be witnessed luring minority votes. While the Congress has always found doors to governance with the help of reservations and special packages for minority, the BJP also reflects an attitude of diplomacy. The Hindus, who are considered to be the key constituents of India, need to be vigilant and tough to uphold their integrity. Definitely, the voters must exploit their right with a view to strengthening the roots, and ensuring safety and advancement of all.

Sharing thoughts, grievances and appreciations was never this easy. Just a few keys and clicks and your suggestions/ reactions are spread. Users of social networking applications must agree to the fact that beyond sharing views, these platforms have definitely added to the thought process. Facebook pages often reflect posts that criticize and sometimes admire the work of politicians. The official pages and tweets of political leaders are followed and many a times become headlines. It was never so uncomplicated for leaders and activists to float their thoughts prior to the introduction of Tweeter. The polls of 2014 are different in a way that social media wasn’t so much dominant in 2009. The Election Commission of India has uncovered the fact that 23 million first-time voters will participate in the upcoming elections and will fairly decide the road to governance. More than 90 percent of youth in Delhi and other metropolitan cities is acquainted with the social networking platform and participates vigorously in the thought-sharing module. A few shares quite often turn a newly emerged politician as a revolutionist. Now, will these platforms be able to influence the outlook of voters? Can India expect the much-awaited transformations in the way politics is conducted in view of the impact of these networking mediums?

Awareness can be regarded as the key to reformations. Today, when our Facebook pages reflect the parts of speeches delivered by political leaders, we analyze their vision and potential. Tweets of ministers and socialists are noticed and talked about. Gags on politicians make us aware of the prevailing political environment of the nation and enhance our interest in politics. Youth, who has been active than ever on issues related to corruption, unemployment, women safety and empowerment and inflation, is exploiting the online platform to the maximum possible extent. Shares, Likes and Comments are likely to arise when the young blood notices the problems faced in day-to-day life. The protest for ‘Jan Lokpal’ and ‘Justice of Damini’ and the robust participation of youth proved the significance of social networking applications. Herein, services of instant messaging and image sharing provided by Whatsapp played a crucial role. With ever-increasing number of internet users in India, the political environment is bound to revolutionize. These voters are not lured with schemes promised for particular religions or reservations for special castes. Their concerns are related to prosperity and social safety.

The users of these platforms need to be vigilant enough prior to being moved by the post reflecting progressive thoughts of any political leader. Words aren’t enough for bringing in development. Hence, the past deliveries of candidates must be looked at prior to forming a conclusion. The youth must respect the freedom of speech that has been allotted to them by these platforms and must make finest use so as to ensure reforms and better governance. The political parties on the other hand, should not make an attempt to corrupt the social media with illicit promotions and false representations. While conveying through Twitter, leaders and activists must ensure the authenticity and morality of their words. Also, swift measures must be implemented to prevent sharing of unethical and anti-communal messages via Whatsapp and other such online applications.

We can recognize an Indian as a Literate, or as an Illiterate. A Literate can further be classified as an absolute Literate, or a fractional Literate. An absolute Literate can either be Arts, Science, or a Commerce Literate. A science Literate may have pursued MBBS or Bachelor of Technology. Do we at all need any revisions in such classifications? Administrated by the Central, State, or Local Authority, the educational module of the nation seeks urgent reforms. Let’s start from the beginning. The 2011 survey holds that the National Literacy Rate in India is around 74 percent. Let me also make you aware that as per the Census ‘any person who is above the age of 7 years, and can read and write in any language is considered to be Literate’. Herein, further distinction can be made with respect to the level of literacy in males and females. While almost 65 percent of the females are held to be literate, 82 percent of males fall in this category. The foremost concern can uncomplicatedly be uncovered- Empowerment of girls.

The Right to Education Act was expected to bring in the much-awaited reforms. Not much, however, seems to be achieved. Though we can discuss the statistics, let me focus on the answers rather. Do we all know what the Right to Education Act says? Does a child know his fundamental rights and privileges? Do we know whom to approach in case these rights are infringed? ‘Awareness’ thus can change many lives and thus the numbers. Ground-level reforms are necessary to help parents and children know their fundamental rights. It is considerable to note the fact that the augmentation in the number of schools run by the State/ Central Government is way less than the boost in population. Construction of state-of-the art schools and proficient management is definitely the need of the hour. Incidences, when students walking miles barefoot so as to arrive at the place of education witness the absence of teachers, are not rare. Lack of drinking water, sanitation, nutritious meals, and the passion to teach are the foremost hindrances. The Government must endeavor to provide free of cost basic facilities viz. bags, books, uniform, food, drinking water, and adequate infrastructure. Stricter regulations and penalties will ensure apt attendance of the teachers.

The structure of education too demands revisions. Incidences when a child considers his educational Board/ University superior to the other are common. Common educational methodology can be an answer to this. By this I mean, the pattern of teaching, syllabus, and grading should be universal. However, studying of local history and language can be added to the syllabus. Why does it become challenging for a student to pursue his interest in photography while studying science at college level? Why is there a compulsion to opt for either science or commerce at the Senior Secondary level? Shouldn’t an IT professional be aware about the market trend? Questions are many. The Authorities need to make a sincere attempt in drafting a revised study curriculum that serves the purpose of education. Social, political, scientific, and economical awareness must be ensured at every level of academics. Plus, attention must be paid with respect to uplifting arts, sports, culture, and literature. For ensuring that exceptional talent is acknowledged, students must be allowed to opt for extra-curricular activities without any restrains. Inventions and global recognitions can be witnessed when the upcoming scientists and entrepreneurs are delivered with a platform to spread their wings beyond boundaries.

Though numerous promising schemes are in place to ensure active participation of women, not many reforms at ground level are noticeable. I am writing to share my views on altering the prevailing laws and acts so as to fetch utmost betterment of Indian women. Let’s start with compulsory education and health services that can bring in resourceful outcomes. 35 percent of women in India are below the age of 35 years. Reservation for women in these categories can serve distinct purposes simultaneously – Right to Education, National Health Mission, and Enlarged participation of women in every sphere. It is considerable to note that despite of the steps initiated by the Central and State Governments, the women literacy rate is not more than 65 percent, which is way less than the male literacy rate. 100 percent reservation of girls with respect to primary education is the foremost need. For promising valuable educational and employment services to women, the Government can spare some budget from the MANREGA policy.

Empowerment can not be viewed without self-dependency. Herein, we will have to unearth effective ways to provide employment prospects to women. Today, almost 13 lakh registered primary schools can offer employment to 50 lakh women in the rural parts of the nation. This would not only ensure monetary benefits to women, but will also make sure that the family wealth is not spent on illicit activities. Immense employment prospects can be observed by the fact that less than 15 percent of child birth is taken care of by trained professionals. Though the massive budget of the National Rural Health Mission has assured benefits to rural areas, corruption has led to the inefficiency of this scheme. Training the rural based women regarding parturition and providing employment in the relevant sector can be witnessed as a proficient measure.

The vital fact is that the nation embraces only 25 thousand primary health centers. Beyond this, the deficiency of staff remains a prominent concern. Though the motive of primary health centers was to make available safer child birth circumstances, nothing much could have been achieved. The nation, which witnesses the birth of 51 children every minute, demands and promises utmost employment prospects. The need is to comprehend the prevailing circumstances and frame policies that are profitable and uncomplicated to implement. Remember, the world when witnessed the phase of economical downfall, India managed a stable economical growth. Household women who played the foremost role in the savings sector can be given the credit of this- Share of women in the savings module is more than 80 percent. Policies that can favor extended benefits to women who actively participate in savings sector can be looked upon as an added advantage. 50 percent reservation for women in every sphere will definitely be a crucial measure- What we can call as ‘Bona fide empowerment’.

Approximately 1,00,000 first-time voters in every constituency- Shouldn’t political parties rethink their agendas? Uniting together of young faces over the issues of ‘Jan Lokpal’ and ‘Justice for Nirbhaya’ is an alarming state for the political family. Definitely, the digitally advanced and vibrant youth of India aspires for all-inclusive participation and development. Security and employment are the expectations which have superseded the demands of reservation and packages. So, is the young blood prepared to mark a sturdy presence in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls? Though many political leaders are paying extensive heed to this class of voters, their aspirations are rarely being noticed. The Government did not seem to be focused towards the implementation of Jan Lokpal Bill. Reforms in the Women Security measures could not bring any visible differences in the number of rapes and attacks. Flying shoes, slaps, and showers of ink- Is youth protesting in an imprecise manner?

600 million young faces can surely bring in the change. The nation, which has witnessed religions and castes as the source of fetching support, now demands for what we can call ‘Unbiased prosperity’. The youth of India must realize that they can influence and shape the political environment of the nation by being vigilant and participative. Participation in polls is definitely a necessity, however social and political awareness cannot be overlooked. Prior to deciding whom to vote, answer to the question ‘Why to vote for him/her?’ must be looked for. Newspapers and TV channels are flooded with advertisements reflecting the contributions of distinct political parties in the development of society. These luring ads are sure to impress you. However, analyzing and measuring the actual contribution is your task. Rather than being influenced by the projected development modules, the youth must endeavor to rate the candidates on the basis of their political capital. Internet and social media have brought in the ease of uncovering the actual facts and thus concluding to a wiser assessment.

The candidates and political parties must, on the other hand, focus on utilizing the young blood for the betterment of social, economic, and political environment of the nation. These youngsters are self-motivated, aware, and enthusiastic to build an enhanced tomorrow. Rather than luring particular castes/ religions with biased favors and schemes, candidates must look forward to capitalizing on the vibrant young blood. For youngsters, awareness is the key to forming a developed nation. The diversity of India should in no way be a hindrance in the growth. The youth must seek reforms that can promise educational and infrastructural advancement, self-dependency, security, and mutual prosperity. Voters- Know the candidate you are voting for, and find answers to the questions, ‘What reforms are you expecting?’, ‘What differences can your vote bring in?’, and above all, ‘How will the nation benefit with your participation?’

The nation has witnessed the descendents of influential political leaders been given immense and undue favor. The youth brigade representing the vibrant outlook is backed by the social capital that these leaders possess. Social Capital can be looked upon as the assets and resources gained with the help of links and proximity with dominant leaders. Politics of India seems to be providing superfluous advantage to those who come from a family of cabinet ministers, MPs, or Chief Ministers. The question is ‘Whether or not these young leaders capable of delivering the much-awaited reforms?’ The voters of the country will have to realize that candidature and political vision should to be paid heed to. Rebuilding the political community does not mean bestowing upon the responsibility of governance on those shoulders that are the representatives of dominant past leaders.

The Congress party is in a phase of rejuvenating and strengthening the roots. We can look at the recent visits and dialogues of Mr. Rahul Gandhi as an attempt to reinforcing new blood. It has been repeatedly spoken that the Youth Brigade of the Congress party has faces that hold extensive social capital backed by their ancestors. The BJP leaders, who constantly speak about the curse of family-driven politics, have recently agreed to tie up with a regional party run by leaders from the same family. The nation urgently calls for leaders who are visionary and can stand tough. The political environment of India, the largest democracy in the world, is significantly influenced by the diversity of cultures, religions, and castes. It is customary to witness occasions when the descendant of a Minister is showered upon with unreasonable favor. Accountability that comes into picture post responsibility seems nowhere. The consequences are predictable- Lack of national interest.

Regional parties, playing a vital role in driving the politics of the Center since past many years, are posing indefinite concerns. The Government lacks the decision-making power and thus has to depend upon those who favor prosperity of a particular community/ region. The nation has been a spectator to incidents when the Central Government gave special and bulky packages to particular states for their betterment. Investigating agencies are used as a threat to fetch support from regional parties so as to ensure the stability of the Government. The voters of the nation need to learn from past incidents and have to take resourceful decisions in the upcoming polls. National parties shall be given the opportunity to form a stable Government and thus implement policies that are in the interest of the nation as a whole. The leaders of these national parties must strengthen their base and shall communicate their factual roadmap. Most significantly, commendable and visionary candidates shall be provided with a platform to become a part of the governance.

Hundreds of languages, multiple religions, and distinct castes and cultures proudly represent the nation, India. With a view to streamlining and strengthening the ruling, the constitution makers defined the structure of Government, the mode of selection of members of the Parliament, and their duties and responsibilities. With the passage of time, the nation’s political environment witnessed the rise of political parties that are backed up by particular religion/ caste. This definitely led to realistic development of every sphere of society; however undue favors to specific castes can also not be overlooked.

Counting and listing down the achievements of the nation in the past seven decades post independence is not easy. We can surely recollect the incidences when representatives from distinct religions were bestowed upon with the task of governance. The Muslims who are considered to be in minority with respect to the overall population represented the post of President at three different times. The nation also was a spectator to the incidence when a catholic lady forfeited her Prime Ministerial candidature and favored the appointment of a Sikh Prime Minister. Shouldn’t the nation be proud of the fact that the Speaker of the Lower House of the Parliament is a woman, while that of the Upper House is a Muslim? The verity that a woman succeeded a Muslim President who contributed enormously in the scientific glory of the nation is considerable to note.

How many of us know that India has been the largest economy in the world for 1500 of the last 2000 years? Diversity has been the nation’s strength. We have seen India becoming home to Americans, Syrians, and natives of distinctive countries. Also, the Zoroastrians when forced to quit their homeland created their homes in this nation. Do we feel proud of the verity that the religions, Hinduism, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism were born in India? The leaders of religions must know that India is the second largest Muslim nation on earth – wherein they are an inseparable part in the prosperity of the economy and infrastructure. Recall the fact that the Jewish have been the residents of India since the Romans burnt their second temple. Also, the nation has been home to Dalai Lama and even the Government of Tibet in exile.

Hurdles have been many. When terrorism shattered the root of mankind on one hand and on the other the religious leaders created gaps, all-inclusive development was complex. The facts are still favorable. The economy of India has been lifting 40 million residents out of poverty every year and promises to deliver middle class standards to majority of the population by the year 2025- Feel proud to be a part. Above all is the fact that more than 1/10^th of humanity herein is ready to vote- An inspiration to most developed countries. More than 700 million votes are ready to direct the upcoming governance of the nation. The pace of growth has surely been lessened by factors that include corruption, lack of infrastructural facilities, criminalization of politics, biased policies of the Government, lack of accountability, and lack of women empowerment. The upcoming general elections would definitely witness the agony of the residents towards these factors. The political party, which will be bestowed upon with the responsibility of forming the Government at the Centre should be vigilant to ensure uniform prosperity of all. The nation has viewed thriving implementation of measures that have helped reviving the economy. Let us believe that the upcoming years would bring in the much-awaited and stricter reforms. Let us also remember that we can be a part of this by being a voter and not a petitioner.

The outcomes of Delhi state polls were witnessed as a remarkable beginning of a distinct and cleaner political environment. It was sure that the mass voted for those who promised to bring in better governance. The Aam Aadmi Party, though not a clear winner, stood up as the most influential party. Not just inside the borders of India, Mr. Arvind Kejriwal fetched admiration even on the international forum. People regarded him as a leader who would deliver unbiased and anti-corrupt governance. What truly happened was unfortunately depressing.

Right from the beginning of the formation of the Government, the AAP and its leaders remained an inseparable part of controversies. The person, who repeatedly confirmed prior to the polls that the party would never make alliance with any other political party, went to the public to seek advice whether to or not to form Government. We could have appreciated this measure, however, where was the public opinion when the party decided to discontinue? Wasn’t the party accountable to the people of Delhi who supported them during and after the polls? Weren’t the leaders answerable to those who had enormous expectations with respect to reforms and development? Finally, the AAP has opted to stay away from administration alleging that the opposition and the political party supporting them are not in favor of eradicating corruption. Well said by a former administrative officer and a member of Team Anna, ‘AAP is looking for Lok Sabha and not Lok Pal’.

Let us also make sure whether the Delhi Government delivered the promised governance during 49 days of their administration. I would begin with the incident that was telecasted on a new channel a few days ago representing the rage of the residents of a particular locality who slapped one of the AAP MLAs. These residents were promised with pipeline for water supply in their area. Was Lok Pal more essential than water? Why didn’t the AAP Government present any model for improving the water supply in Delhi? Following are some endless events that reflected the fact that AAP leaders were not the way they projected themselves.

The amount spent on public swearing-in was in lakhs. Was this at all necessary? The party leader could have used his regular vehicle to attend the swearing-in, however, chaos in the Delhi metro was definitely not worthy. It was hard to believe that a young lady minister alleged for security on the incident of a 6-year old boy accidentally hitting her car with a tennis ball. The state Law Minister tried hard to summon all Delhi High Judges to his chamber. The same minister, accompanied by slogan-mongering supporters, threatened the SHO and foreign natives during late night hours without a proper order (warrant). The Chief Minister of the state who continuously disagreed with the bungalow culture finally approved to acquire a ten-room residence, however, the unfavorable voice of mass couldn’t let him check in. How fair was the step to write off electricity dues of those who did not pay their bills? Didn’t the ones who paid these high bills deserve reimbursement? But the Government did not think of any such policy. Metered water consumers were lured with free consumption upto 700 litres, however, no strategy was in place to help those who did not have meter/ pipeline installed.

Who can justify the occasion when the state Chief Minister was lying in warm clothes to protest against the police administration while at the same time numerous policemen were standing and struggling hard to ensure his utmost safety? The respectable position of the Lieutenant Governor was abused by one of the party leaders. There is no immediate end to such incidences. The reason of my writing is strictly related to awakening the mass and letting them know that words aren’t enough to bring in revolutions. No one can be declared honest on his own words. We have to learn to comprehend the potential of those who allege to be pure. Lastly, it is considerable to note that the candidate from Moradabad for the AAP is a severe bank defaulter. Can we expect honest and effective reforms from a party that is not vigilant enough in the starting phase? The AAP, to prove its capability and purity, must learn from the 49-days experience and must build a workable strategy for urgent improvements.

Prosperity follows stability. Being a nation with diverse communal and ethnic richness, India is declared as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, and Democratic Republic by the constitution. The Governments, Union as well as the States, are bestowed upon with a duty to treat all the communities alike and to frame policies that benefit all. Does today’s newspaper have any news of such a policy that serves the need of the nation or the state as a whole? Rarely do we see the Government coming up with a model that suits every section of community. Though I would not stress upon the policies drafted for a particular community/caste in recent months, a slight glimpse is however necessary. The State Government of U.P. recently made amendments to the policy under which teenage girls are provided with monetary allowances to empower their educational base – A particular community was benefited post the amendments and this was looked upon as a step to lure the voters of this community.

Every one of us belongs to a particular religion/caste that makes India a nation with communal multiplicities. Now, when I think of measures that provide more opportunities to people of my community, it is apparent that the interests of the remaining communities are sacrificed. The current Union Government rests upon the support of distinctive regional parties that demand fund and plans that benefit either a particular state/caste. The motive is evident – These regional parties are backed by votes on basis of pity interests and offerings. Now arises the question that needs a definite and swift answer. Is India moving on a path that would lead to all-inclusive development? While we study the challenges of our nation in a textbook, unemployment, inflation, restriction to freedom, poverty, and infrastructure are the areas of concern. However, are the Union Governments from past many decades making any attempts to overcome these national bottlenecks? How can they? In 2004 Lok Sabha Polls, absolute majority was not gained by any of the political parties. The UPA formed the Government with external support from many regional parties. The conclusion – Ignorance of national bottlenecks and undue advantage to particular states/communities for ensuring the confidence of the Indian Parliament.

We have been talking about the consequences of corruption in a stricter manner since past few years. The rise of a newly emerged political party in the state of Delhi reflected the rage of society against corruption. Now, when top leaders of political parties talk about ending this anti-development issue, why do they forget about the recent closure of investigations against leaders of regional political groups? Investigating agencies are used as an illicit weapon to either protect such corrupts or to threaten them. Motive is clear – Support to maintain the requisite numbers. Let’s talk about the solution now. Had there been a Union Government backed by extensive support from the voters, the nation would have witnessed better governance. The policy makers would have had the freedom to opt for plans that can bring in development for every community in case they did not have to rely upon the support from regional parties.

The nation has to rethink as to what it needs. Do we want pity benefits for our particular community/caste, or do we look forward to a nation that has ample employment opportunities for all? Do we want our caste to rely upon reservations, or do we want to welcome infrastructural developments that can promise prosperity beyond reservation? The voter has to decide whether he/she wants a nation that keeps in its secure fold all the communities/castes, or he/she wants a prosperous community that relies on reservations and sympathies. Remember, a Government that is stable will be proactive to draft plans that are unbiased and concrete. Let’s hope for a better tomorrow that can promise success of all.

The Constitution of India is principally federal with certain unitary features – Demanding unified endeavors from the Union and State Governments for collective prosperity of nation. Let us consider the performance of the past 10 years of the governance of United Progressive Alliance (UPA), a coalition of left political parties formed after the general elections of 2004. Absolute majority wasn’t won by either of the political parties, which led the UPA rely on the external support from regional political parties for ensuring that the Government maintains the confidence of the Indian Parliament. The first prominent withdrawal was witnessed on the 8^th of July 2008 when the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) announced their discontinuance of support over the verdict of the Union Government to approve the Indo-U.S. Nuclear Deal (The question is wasn’t this deal in the interest of nation?). On numerous other occasions, which include quitting of the BSP on the 21^st of June 2008, move of MDMK on the 16^th of March 2007, and move of the People’s Democratic Party on 4^th of January 2009, the nation witnessed the instability of the Government. Enumerated hereunder are the withdrawals that led to weakening the Union Government and slowing the pace of development.

1. TRS, TelanganaRashtraSamiti led by K. Chandrashekhar Rao was the foremost party to quit the alliance when party’s president resigned from his Lok Sabha seat.
2. MDMK tied a knot with AIADMK in the state elections of Tamil Nadu and declared its withdrawal on the 16^th of March 2007.
3. PattaliMakkalKatchi withdrew support in March 2009 and joined the AIADMK led front.
4. Accusing the Andhra Pradesh Government of communal conduct, the AIMIM’s leader AsaduddinOwaisi quitted the alliance in 2012.
5. Mamta Banerjee after sequences of yes and no finally withdrew support on the 18^th of September 2012 stating that TMC would not favor hike in prices of diesel, and FDI in retail.
6. Jharkhand VikasMorcha withdrew support in October 2012 claiming the same basis as TMC.
7. Post the resignation of two MPs of DMK in 2012 due to severe charges of corruption, DMK moved from the UPA in March 2013.

Were all these moves for the benefit of the nation as a whole? The answer to this question isn’t that complicated. Mayawati accused the Government of misusing the Investigating Agency and attempting to implicate her in the Taj Corridor instance. Mehbooba Mufti opposed thesupport of the Congress for the National Conference Government in J&K-led by Omar Abdullah. Where is the interest of the common man of India? At the initial stage let us also consider the diversity and communal richness of the country. Considering all the linguistic, communal, and ethnic multiplicities, management is a tough task. Plus, with a few Islamic fundamentalists who hold their own perception about the religion and with the emergence of a new class of revolutionaries ‘the Maoists’, the idea of a secular constitution is at stake. Drafting and implementing of policies has become tougher as ever. When one set of people is looking forward to a policy that can control the ever-rising inflation and interest rates, another section of society hunts for reservation and subsidies – And above all is the reliance of the Union Government on the alliance partners. It is easy to conclude that the Union Government of a nation like India needs to be stringent and reasonable at the same time. Promoting the failures is effortless; however comprehending the underlying causes is hard. Post evaluating the deliveries of the UPA-led Union Government, we can spot the authentic bottlenecks.

One of these is the coalition of political parties with a motive to leading the state. Can anyone validate the instance when one of the coalition partners, Trinmool Congress led by Mamta Banerjee, prevented the Government from agreeing to share the water of the river Teesta with Bangladesh? The people of India are motivated to vote for pity interests while the bona fide interests of the nation are paid no heed to. The outcome is apparent. From the instances mentioned earlier, we can conclude that the Government at the centre has to rely on the support of regional political parties which employ illicit ways to extract funds and policies for a particular community/vicinity. To safeguard the Government, misuse of investigating agencies cannot also be overlooked. With the move of Trinmool Congress, the UPA had to rely extensively on the support of the Samajwadi Party led byMulayam Singh Yadav and the BahujanSamaj Party led byMayawati. Compromises and delays in the implementation of valuable policies are clear outcomes of this affiliation.

Let’s now talk about some visible solutions. In the interest of the nation as a whole, the structure and foundation of the Union Government has to be sturdy. To welcome constructive reforms, people have to acknowledge the fact that developmentfollows stability. To allow the Government take swift decisions and implement measures that can bring in all-inclusive prosperity; we have to move away from our pity personal/communal interests. Regional parties that are backed by the support of a particular caste/religion should not be allowed to hamper the permanence of the Government at the centre. A voter must keep in mind that the Lok Sabha Polls take into consideration the entire of the diversity of nation – A stable Government can surely take quick and effective measures for the promotion of all castes and religions. Shouldn’t we allow the UPA and its young leaders to prove their ability to lead the nationwith our full-fledged support? The sooner we understand, the better we get.

The Small and medium industries are the backbone of any economy. An inception of planned economy in India evolved from 1951 with subsequent industrial policy between the Government and the planners. These industries always emphasized on the right use of foreign exchange for import of capital goods, employment opportunities diffusion of powers and prevent monopoly.

India has nearly three million SMEs, which account for almost 50 percent of industrial output and 42 percent of India’s total exports.  SME’S in India have contributed in high production in the domestic front, significant export earnings, low investment requirements, technology based industries and ample competition in domestic and Indian markets. Similarly, it has its own limitations as the capital base is low, inadequate exposure to international markets, inability to face the WTO regime (World Trade Organization) and lack of professionalism too.

The food processing, chemicals and pharmaceuticals, engineering, bio engineering and software industries have already established themselves. Not to forget the quality of products in states like Maharashtra along with progressive industrial policies are high also the budget for research and development are ample. The engineering industries along with food processing, pharmaceutical and chemical industries in Maharashtra and Gujarat have a very bright future. The products are exported to Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and China besides West European and North American Countries.

The question today is that are these SME’s in India facing a challenge and what are the measures to curb them? Indian industries are very dynamic as they focus on modern marketing and scientific plans. To be able to match with the strong international needs India has to imbibe in new technological methods.  Indian SME’s generally face poor financial conditions and the levels of Research and Development are low along with low management skills. To improve on these parameters and to face the new challenging international market has to build up technological facilities along with their research and development unit.

However, we cannot forget the development of SME’s after 1991 where reforms and policies have changed the outlook of these industries. Industries have expanded their role and have secured a higher platform in curbing income inequality and unemployment. Companies like CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research), ITC (Indigenous Technological Capacity) and NSIC (National Small Industries Corporation) are few of them who provide ample development plans to small scale industries. Talking about Research and Development institutions in India there are as many as 2, 900 institutions in India which provide cooperation to small industries in acquiring latest technologies.

In order to support these industries various Government and private banks provide loan facilities to micro, medium and small enterprise.  The amounts vary depending upon the investment in plant and machinery requirements. There is also a strong marketing team in banks who facilitate the relationship between the enterprise and the banks for addressing financial requirements by choosing the right product to match the credit needs.

Government of India, since the inception of small scale industries has been very supportive and open to the changes. With a vast landscape with indigenous cultures many enterprises has been successful in promoting and saving our endangered art and artisans. Technological growth and international trade is not the only nucleus of any enterprise but understanding its peoples need makes the business environment meaningful.  Bodies like National Small Industries Corporation Ltd. (NSIC), an ISO 9001 certified company, established in 1955, has been aiding the small scale industries. SMEs play a key role in providing employment to the middle and aged people, as well as women in the village, who can no longer work in the urban formal sectors. India strictly follows the pollution control measures and has world class manufacturing capabilities and cost structures. Government of India and Financial Institutions has launched business awards for excellent SMEs which recognize SMEs who are at par with the global players. Also, consumer buying has revived and liquidity is high. Therefore, enterprises now are organized professionally, technologically sound and are competent.

Risk Management is protecting one’s asset against any losses.  Risk in any form of business has to be first identified and analyzed and then eliminated or reduced.  With a similar purpose IIIRM (Indian Institute of Insurance and Risk Management) was formed in India in 1983 with 300 plus managers.

In the late 80’s Japanese banks grew mammoth size without any set regulations.  At this advent, Basel I was introduced to standardize the regulations governing the global banking industry.  However the regulations became weak in such countries where the regulatory framework was not very strong.  Therefore, Basel II was introduced which has better ideas and is based on the better understanding of risks with more transparency.

It is believed that a strong economy and financial institution is required to sustain a long journey.  Therefore, banking system is the core body of the country especially for a developing country like India.  Risk Management plays a very crucial role for an organization’s survival leading to stronger financial sectors.

Here in India families still, do not show utmost trust in the country’s financial system.  It is an age old story and people still like stacking their assets at home rather in banks.   India still ranks high when it comes to buying gold and people hardly keep money in banks.  This is when the transparency, that Basel II talk of, comes handy and the perception of Indian Financial system being weak can be resolved and changed.

The above mentioned model to be up and running in India banks should create their own set of internal risk models and move towards more transparent assets like bonds and not loans.  India is highly vulnerable to risk though we have a large economy.  India has seen a lot of disasters the major one being the one in Bhuj in 2001 where the government revenue was 7% and uninsured revenue loss was 1% of GDP as proven by the figures. In today’s economic downturn banking industry is facing a serious problem especially when the competitors are giving a cut throat competition by new technological innovations, international integration and Basel II regulations.

The risk department in the banks (worldwide) not only manages credit risk in the market but also handles Market Risk and Operational Risks.  These risk factors depend upon country to country depending upon the landscape and social factors. The Department of Human Resource also plays a key factor to monitor the risks, deploy for right man force, educate them and conduct Risk audits on a timely basis.

Today many banks are merging Times Bank and HDFC merged in 2001, Bank of Madura with ICICI in 2002, Benares State Bank with Bank of Baroda in 2003 and Global Trust Bank with Oriental Bank of Commerce.  These banks merged to save themselves from default and high losses. Banks may choose to merge to become global players in the coming years.

The country’s largest public sector players, The State Bank of India, others like Bank of India and Bank of Baroda, are keen on having a strong overseas presence. In UK, Bank of India, Bank of Baroda and Canara Bank have also begun operations.  The use of internet banking has crossed borders and it is now possible to market products and services on a global basis.  India has signed the Financial Services Agreement in 1997 which shall give India an opportunity to expand their business across the world.  India as it is, is in a spotlight next to China with the growth on GDP.

With millions of Indians opening savings accounts, using credit cards and taking car loans for the first time, according to the Reserve Bank of India, the central bank report. Indian banks cumulatively reported a 13% jump in income to about $30 billion in the year that ended March 31, 2009.  In the fourth quarter of 2008, total bank deposits in rural areas climbed 20% from a year earlier, following 12% growth in 2007.  At the nation’s largest lender, Mumbai-based State Bank, rural deposits grew 30% to 2.16 trillion rupees, or $45 billion, in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009. The bank advanced loans of 1.21 trillion rupees, or $25 billion, up 18% with a default rate of 0.5%. Further, the “Industry Vision 2010” is that many international players would be visible in the Indian Market and Indian financial institutions would be going global.  Indian Banks have evolved immensely during the last few years and set the country at the forefront of the developing world. We saw that Indian Banks even during the time of recession sustained & remained insulated. It proved that they have strong liquidity. Furthermore, with the implementation of Basel II they will amongst the foremost banking systems in the world. Prestigious Universities have already started grooming their students and have introduced curriculums like Strategic Management in Banking which will equip them to fight against turbulence, give extraordinary customer service and last but certainly not the least, control risk.

In this modern era all are concerned about their personal lives. Nobody is bothered to think about their parents. Most of the times old age people suffer from financial problems, health problems, etc. We all will have to give a thought that how much pain they have suffered to make us reach this level, how much money they have spent for our education, how much money they have spent for our heath care, etc. Old age is the time during which we have to give them back all the love, financial support, health care and everything that they have provided us when they were young.

“The old age is second childhood” this saying describes the mental activeness of people living in their old age, but all the old aged people do not come under this category, there are some people who become more intelligent and pro active as the age passes by, but the percentage is very less. During this stage of life people become very much susceptible to diseases, their activeness starts to decrease and there are many more changes which have a profound effect on their health.

SOME FACTS

Let us have a look at some astonishing facts

· A study conducted in America has revealed that nearly 70% of parents who are aged think of living an independent life without getting any help from their children.

· One third of the total aged people hesitate to ask help from their children who are earning and have established themselves.

· On the other hand more than 75% of adult children think of their parents leaving alone.

· The number of children who sit and discuss with their parents about the problems regarding the health and financial matters is less than 30%

The Indian culture is completely different from American culture because the Americans have nuclear families whereas we Indians strongly believe in the joint family. Hence it becomes very important for us to think how we can support them like how they have supported us during our childhood. According to the estimates the population of the old age will be 113 million by the year 2016, which will jump to 179 million by the year 2026 and that’s not all by the year 2030 it will reach a whopping 218 million.

Need of Retirement planning

Need is a vehicle to get the satisfaction. According to Maslow, a person has five types of needs. They are physiological, safety and security, social, esteem, self-actualization. Aged people have social and security need. It does not mean that they had not felt this need before; they had felt it and had satisfied it too. But with the passage of time they spent the major portion of their earnings either in educating and up bringing their children or in building a home of their own or in taking care of their parents etc., this situation is seen in most of the Indian homes. As they reach their old age then they realize that the time and money that they have saved for themselves may not be sufficient for them to lead a tension free life after the retirement. In this case it becomes the duty of their children to see that their parents do not face too many financial problems.

Four Types of Children

The children can be divided into four types based on their thinking about their parents and securing their future. They are;

1. Those who are concerned about their parents future and have taken some steps to see that they live a peaceful life in their old age

2. Those who have thought about it but have not taken any step because they think it’s the duty of their brother or sister.

3. Those who think that they have done many arrangements but in reality it is never going to help their ageing parents

4. Those who have never thought about that

Questions to be Answered

There are some questions which have to be answered by the individual to know where he stands in terms of securing his parents future, they are:

· What are the sources of income of your ageing parents post retirement?

· Are they draining their savings?

· Do they have substantial pension?

· Will there be any financial crisis in case of financial emergency?

If a person answers these questions with ease and as an outsider what are his opinions about the financial state of his parents and in case the person is stumped by these questions and feels difficulty in answering them then it is a matter which has to be given a serious thought. The only condition that can be put while answering the question is that the person should tell the truth to himself.

Ways to Secure your parents Future

There are various ways in which the children can secure the future of their parents

• Insurance
• ULIPS
• Banks
• Post offices

1. Insurance

The term insurance has a very broad meaning and we know that both living and non-living things can be insured. We are more concerned about our parents here.

A person who is earning and capable of paying the premiums may take the insurance policies and appoint either of the parents as the nominee. In case of his/her death the parent can get the sum assured. It is not that he should take the death cover only he can take the survival benefit insurance on his name and can make any parent as nominee. Once the maturity period is over they can get the sum assured.

The son or daughter should ensure that both the parents have the medical insurance as the old aged parents often have health problem and if there is any major problem then there will be no shortage of funds.

2. ULIPS

Another option which is offered by most of the insurance companies now is the ULIPS (Unit Linked Insurance Plans). This offer is given mostly to attract the customers who are interested in the capital markets as well as are looking for insurance policies. We can have this plan on our parents name and propose certain amount towards premium and this premium can be paid once as lump sum or can be given as the premium once in a month, quarterly, yearly.

The company deducts a part of the premium towards the cost of the insurance, another part as the charges and the balance amount is called as the “allocated premium” is invested in the funds of the certain companies which are selected by the proposer from the list of all the options given. The returns that are the sum assured or death cover, payable in the event of death during the term depends on the premium that is paid. Usually the sum paid is 1.5 times the single premium or 5 times the yearly premium. According to the guidelines the sum assured cannot be less than 5 times the annual premium or 1.25 times the monthly premium. The person who has invested in the funds of certain companies gets good returns if the company is doing well in the market.

3. Banks

The banks are the main source where any person can get the money. We can approach the banks not only to take the loans or making a deposit, there are banks which provide facilities or many schemes just for the sake of old aged. Let’s have a look at some of the schemes.

a)      Fixed Deposits (FD)

A way in which we can secure the future of our parents is by keeping the fixed deposit (FD) in their name. If a person is bothered about securing his parents future then this is one of the easiest way. What can be done is that the money can be kept as FD and the returns or the interest that comes can be deposited directly to the parents account. This is an easy method where the person keeping the FD’s can direct the bank to transfer the interest to his father’s or mother’s account. The interest is deposited in the account as per the directions of the depositor it can be monthly, quarterly, yearly, or once the FD has matured. If the FD’s are kept in the names of the parents and incase the parents are the senior citizens then most of the banks offer an extra 0.5% of interest on the FD’s

b)      Standing Instructions

If a person is too worried of the parent’s future and is ready to spare share of his earning or salary then a facility is given by many banks this is called as Standing Instructions. A person who has the salary account in a bank and if anyone of his parents account is in the same bank then he can direct the bank to transfer a part of his salary to the account of his parents. How much is transferred is decided by the account holder and most of the banks do not charge anything for transfer.

c)      Others

As said before there are parents who never want any kind of help from their children and like to live on their own. In that case one suggestion that the children can give is reverse mortgage loan (RML). The reverse mortgage loan is not new to countries like America but it was introduced in India in the 2007 budget. In the reverse mortgage loan the person pledges his home to a bank and in return the bank gives the money equivalent to the value of the house in the present market. The money given is again depends on the choice of the borrower, he may take a lump sum amount or may ask for monthly or yearly payment in installments. All scheduled Commercial Banks & National Housing Bank (NHB) have made schemes of RML operative, since 2007.

The guidelines for this has been set by the National Housing Board (NHB), some of the main features are;

· This facility can be availed by the citizens who are above the age of 60

· The borrower must be the owner of that property

· The value of the factors are decided by taking various factors into consideration such as the prevailing rate of interest, the present market value of the house, the age of the borrower etc

. The borrower is not liable to pay any kind of interest. When he permanently leaves the home the home is sold by the bank. In case the bank gets excess money then the excess amount will be given to the borrower and incase if he is dead then it is given to the spouse or to the heirs.

The advantages of this scheme is

· The borrower will hold the ownership rights till the bank sells the property

· The money that the bank gives is considered as the loan and not as income so the borrower need not pay any tax for it

· This scheme can be availed by all the owners irrespective their income group

· This loan is given to such an age group to which there are not many loans given

· The payment made will be according to the wish of the borrower

Some of the disadvantages attached to this scheme are;

· India has the culture of joint family and it may not be very much open to such schemes

· The property value may rise suddenly due to some factors and the borrower may feel cheated

4. Post office Savings

The Indian postal department also provides many schemes to help the senior citizens or old aged to help them in the financial matters. Some of the plans or schemes offered by the Indian Postal Department are Suvidha which is a convertible Whole Life Assurance Scheme, Monthly Income Schemes (MIS), Santosh which is an Endowment Assurance Scheme and Senior Citizens Saving Schemes (SCSS) and many more.

The issues discussed above are just few of the ways in which we can secure our parents future. The most important thing here that we want to convey is, you take any plan or any policy but your parents should get their share of protection, affection, secured feeling that we felt in our childhood each time we took a step. Although it was us who finished our studies and are earning now but we don’t know how many sleepless nights our parents have spent to see that we don’t have to face any financial difficulties right from the moment we are born till the moment we receive our first salary. It is rightly said love and protects your parents because they are very precious.

Money laundering is a process where the origin of funds generated by illegal means is concealed (drug trafficking, gun smuggling, corruption, etc.). The objective of the operation, which usually takes several stages, consists of making the capital and assets that are illegally gained seem as though they are derived from a legitimate source, and inserting them into economic circulation. Money laundering is not a new phenomenon: it’s as old as crime itself. Criminals have always endeavoured to conceal the origin of illegally generated funds in order to erase all trace of their wrongdoings. Nevertheless, the forms and dimensions of this type of crime have evolved in recent years. Since the seventies, the escalation of the drug market and globalization of organized crime have led to a collective raised awareness with regard to the problem of money laundering.

The banks are not the only the means used to conceal the criminal origin of capital assets. Since all bank transactions can be reconstituted and the criminal judge can conduct investigations on them, they are not particularly suited for money laundering. That is why money launders tend to operate through fictive companies, casinos, restaurants, jewelry stores, car dealers and art agents, as well as import-export operations.

According to the IMF report the turnover of this industry is around $1.5 trillion. Parliament of India has adopted the Prevention of Money Laundering (Amendment) Bill, 2009. The Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PML Act) was enforced in 2005 to prevent money laundering and provide for attachment, seizure and confiscation of proceeds of crime obtained, directly or indirectly from such activities. The law checks the use of black money for financing terror activities. Financial intermediaries like full-fledged moneychangers, money transfer service providers such as Western Union and International Payment gateways including VISA and MasterCard have also been brought within the ambit of the Prevention of Money-Laundering Act enacted in 2002. The passage the above mentioned Bill will enable India’s entry into the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an inter-governmental body that has the mandate to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.

As per the provisions of the Act, every banking company, financial institution (which includes chit fund company, a co-operative bank, a housing finance institution and a non-banking financial company) and intermediary (which includes a stock-broker, sub-broker, share transfer agent, banker to an issue, trustee to a trust deed, registrar to an issue, merchant banker, underwriter, portfolio manager, investment adviser and any other intermediary associated with securities market and registered under section 12 of the Securities and Exchange Board of India Act, 1992) shall have to maintain a record of all the transactions; the nature and value of which has been prescribed in the Rules under the PML Act.

Such transactions include:

All cash transactions of the value of more than Rs 10 lacs or its equivalent in foreign currency.

All series of cash transactions integrally connected to each other which have been valued below Rs.10 lakhs or its equivalent in foreign currency where such series of transactions take place within one calendar month.

All suspicious transactions whether or not made in cash and including, inter-alia, credits or debits into from any non monetary account such as demat account, security account maintained by the registered intermediary.

Articles 305a and 305b of the criminal procedure code were entered in force w.e.f. 01.08.1990.

Article 305a takes punitive action against money laundering, which is defined as any act of hindrance to the identification, search or confiscation of capital assets of criminal origin. Money laundering is punished, regardless of where the major offense took place.

Article 305b punishes the lack of vigilance in financial transactions, particularly the failure to verify the beneficial owner. Professional financial intermediaries are bound by what is referred to as the Know your customer principle, and are required without fail to identify the true owner of the funds, who is known as the beneficial owner. Negligent identification of the contracting partner or establishing the beneficial owner is punishable.

Each registered intermediary should adopt written procedures to implement the anti money laundering provisions as envisaged under the Anti Money Laundering Act, 2002. Such procedures should include inter alia, the following three specific parameters which are related to the overall ‘Client Due Diligence Process’:

a. Policy for acceptance of clients

b. Procedure for identifying the clients

c. Transaction monitoring and reporting especially Suspicious Transactions Reporting (STR)

In order to control money laundering the registered intermediaries should have adequate screening procedures in place to ensure high standards when hiring employees. They should identify the key positions within their own organization structures having regard to the risk of money laundering and terrorist financing and the size of their business and ensure the employees taking up such key positions are suitable and competent to perform

their duties. The registered intermediaries must provide proper anti-money laundering and anti-terrorist financing training to their staff members.

In the far lands of Switzerland the Swiss criminal code punishes any offense committed within the context of organized crime (money laundering, corruption, fraud, drug trafficking, gun smuggling, etc.). In the course legal proceedings, a Swiss judge can order the banks to lift bank secrecy in order to obtain information on certain accounts. Thus, bank secrecy is not an obstacle in the fight against organized crime.

Investigative Agencies in India are alarmed by the infiltration of fake currency notes especially in South India. These notes are flooding in the country and there is no difference between the real notes. Educated youths from Andhra Pradesh and Tamilnadu are involved as couriers. The countries which lie in the East of India like Nepal, Bangladesh and Malaysia are not exempt as these notes are being pumped in through air, land and sea and pose a serious issue to debacle our economy.

The currency note of Rs 500 is mostly forged. It was easier to detect fraud earlier however; as these forgers have attained high level of sophistication it is difficult to detect such notes.  As per RBI (Reserve Bank of India) forged notes can be recognized as the notes are thick and not crisp. If the note is photocopied the color and print look faded, intalagio would be missing in counterfeit notes and the security band would be rough with irregular number panel and smaller digits. RBI has also apprised banks of seizure of fake notes of Rs 1,000 face value in the two series 2QA and 8AC.  Today, forged notes Vigilance Cells are present in the head offices of all banks and every layman is informed about such notes via print and electronic media. CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) has also appointed a nodal agency to monitor investigation of such fake notes.

Fake notes new road to terrorism?

Introduction of such notes in the country is also being termed as economic subversion.  Fake notes racket is being carried out by using the network of underworld kingpin not only in India but also in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal in close association with different terror outfits.  At the political front there is Pakistan sponsored terrorism and in the economic front there is a supply of fake Indian currency notes inside the Indian borders to damage the Indian economy.  Intelligence officials quote, that ISI uses terrorist groups like Lashkar-e-Tayyeba, Jaish-e-Mohhammad and Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Isalm to smuggle and circulate counterfeit notes in India. States like J&K, Punjab, and Rajasthan along with West Bengal make entry points for such acts. Uttar Pradesh border with Nepal is another route for the inflow of currency.   Indian laborers who work in Dubai are prime targets who deliver cargo to India and are in need of money to purchase return tickets.

Now, spreading like a virus in India the ATM’s are also not safe and bank’s staff involvement cannot be fully denied.  The value of such currency has gone up by 183.14 per cent in the last one year and the value of fake notes detected in the year stood at Rs 15.57 crores as compared to Rs 5.49 crores last year. Only, a small percentage of counterfeit currency is seized and an estimate of two lakh fake notes is in circulation in the country.

Steps taken:

It is utmost important that fake notes are detected as soon as they enter the banking channel.  It is said that the best way to control circulation of these notes is to stop the process of manufacturing currency paper and ink. The finance ministry has been asked to set up a new 12,000 MT capacity paper mill in India in collaboration with leading foreign paper manufacturers. RBI is also looking out for various measures to replace the paper notes by “polymer notes” along with Australia and a pilot project has to be initiated.  The notes would be more durable and will have a protective coating to prevent absorption from moisture.

To detect fake notes banks have been asked to install note sorting machines (NSM’s) at bank branches to detect counterfeit notes.  RBI committee constantly upgrades security features on currency and they believe that the masses should be educated on various security features.  Normally, these notes do not reach the banks as they normally return the fake notes due to the fear of arrest.  Moreover, banks are planning to conduct audits and frame contingency plans to combat natural calamities to terrorist activities. Also, the circulation of these notes destabilizes the country’s economy and encourages terrorist activities.

Thus, the priorities would be: to ensure that fake notes are promptly detected, security features to be constantly upgraded, education amongst the public, cash storage and handling to be strengthened and filing FIR by banks in case fake note are found.

Education loan is provided for the further studies of students. These loans are very much important for the people because these loans give height to the advancements of education. Education is of utmost important for the people, because without the education one could not be civilized. For the civilization one needs to be educated. Many banks have special education loan schemes for meritorious and needy students. The educational loan scheme aims at providing financial support from the banking system to deserving and / meritorious students for pursuing higher education in India and abroad. The main emphasis is that every meritorious student though poor is provided with an opportunity to pursue education with the financial support from the banking system with affordable terms and conditions. No deserving student is denied an opportunity to pursue higher education for want of financial support.

Salient features of the scheme are given hereunder:

1. Eligibility Criteria:

1.1. Student Eligibility:

• Student should be an Indian National
• Secured admission to professional / technical courses in India or abroad through entrance Test / Merit Based Selection process.
• The student should not have outstanding education loan from any other Institution.
• Father/Mother should be co-borrower.
• Branch nearest to the permanent residence of student will consider the loan.

1.2. Courses Eligible:

(a) Studies in India: (Indicative List)

• Graduation courses: B.A. B.Com, B.Sc., etc.
• Post Graduation courses: Masters & Phd.
• Professional Courses: Engg. , Medical, Agriculture, Veterinary, Law, Dental, Management, Computer etc.
• Computer certificate courses of reputed institutes accredited to Deptt. of *electronics or institutes affiliated to university.
• Courses like ICWA, CA, CFA etc.
• Courses conducted by IIM, IIT, IISc, XLRI, NIFT, etc.
• Courses offered in India by reputed foreign universities.
• Evening courses of approved institutes.
• Other courses leading to diploma / degree etc. conducted by colleges/ universities approved by UGC/ Govt/ AICTE /AIBMS/ ICMR etc.
• Courses offered by National Institutes and other reputed private institutions. Banks may have the system of appraising other institution courses depending on the future prospects/recognition by user institutions.

(b) Studies Abroad:

• Graduation For job oriented professional/technical courses offered by reputed universities.
• Post Graduation MCA, MBA, MS etc.
• Courses conducted CIMA-Londin, CPA in USA etc.

1.3. Expenses considered for Loan

• Fee payable to College/School/hostel.
• Examination/library/laboratory fee.
• Purchase of books/equipments/instruments/uniforms.
• Caution deposit/building fund/refundable deposit supported by institution bills/receipts.
• Travel expenses/passage money for studies abroad.
• Purchase of computers-essential for the completion of the course.
• Any other expense required to complete the course- like study tours, project work, Thesis etc.

2. Quantum of Finance.

Need based finance subject to repaying capacity of the parents/students with margin and the following ceilings.

Studies in India – Maximum Rs. 10.00 lacs
Studies abroad – Maximum Rs. 20.00 lacs.

3. MARGIN

Up to Rs.4.00 lacs : NIL
Above Rs.4.00 lacs : Studies in India: 5%
Studies Abroad: 15%

Scholarship/assistantship to be included in margin.
Margin may be brought in on year to year basis as and when disbursements are made on a pro-rata basis.

4. SECURITY

Up to Rs.4.00 lacs : No Security
Above Rs.4.00 lacs & : Collateral in the form of a suitable third party

Up to Rs.7.5 lacs guarantee. The Bank may, at its discretion waive third party guarantee if satisfied with the net worth/means of parent who would be executing the documents as “joint borrower.”

Above Rs. 7.5 lacs Collateral security of suitable value or suitable third party guarantee along with the assignment of future income of the student for payment of installments.

5. REPAYMENT

Repayment holiday/Moratorium : Course period + 1 year or 6 months after getting job, whichever is earlier

The loan to be repaid in 5-7 years after commencement of repayment. If the student is not able to complete the course within the scheduled time, extension of time for completion of course may be permitted for a maximum period of 2 years. If the student is not able to complete the course for reasons beyond his control, sanctioning authority may at his discretion consider such extension as may be deemed necessary to complete the course.
• The accrued interest during the repayment holiday period to be added to the principal and repayment in Equated Monthly Installments (EMI) fixed.
• 1% interest concession may be provided for loaners if the interest is serviced during the study period when repayment holiday is specified for interest / repayment under the scheme.

6. PROCESSING CHARGES

No processing/upfront charges are collected on educational loans by banks.

7. TAX BENEFITS ON EDUCATION LOANS

• You can claim a deduction under section 80 E of the Income-Tax Act for the interest paid on an educational loan.
• You will get the tax benefit on an education loan only if the loan is in your name and is taken for the purpose of higher education of yourself, your spouse or your children. Education loan taken for the higher education of siblings (brother or sister) is not covered in this regard.
• Earlier, only the lesser of the two amounts was eligible for tax deduction: either the total amount paid during the year (principal repaid and interest paid) or Rs 40,000. Now, this has been done away with, you can deduct the entire interest amount from your taxable income, without any limits. No deduction, however, is available for the principal that you repay.
• These deductions are available only for a period of eight years starting from the year in which you start paying the interest on the student loan.
• Do remember that you cannot claim tax deductions if your employer, family or friends gives you an educational loan. You can get tax benefits only if the student loan is from a financial institution, bank or an approved charitable institution.
• Tax benefits are not available in respect of interest paid on a loan taken for any course. The course has to be for full-time studies (no part-time courses covered) for any graduate or post graduate course in engineering, medicine, management, or for post graduate course in applied sciences or pure sciences including mathematics and statistics.

Entrepreneurs’ increasingly use computers to create transmit and store information in electronic form instead of traditional paper form. Information stored in this form is cheaper, easier to store and retrieve. New communication system and digital technologies are used to transact business electronically. Though, such kind of electronic form has its own advantages but people are reluctant to conduct business due to lack of proper legal frame work. E Commerce (Electronic Commerce) eliminates the need of paper based transactions however, two main hindrances in facilitating E commerce are writing and signature for legal documents.

Indian Government realized the need of the hour so thought of introducing a law to facilitate e-commerce and give legal recognitions to electronic records and digital signatures. This need gave birth to legal recognitions to electronic commerce and introduced Information Technology Bill 1999. Further, in the year 2000 both house of parliament passed the Bill which received President’s assent in August 2000 which was named Information Technology Bill 2000 and was a part of it.
Objectives of the Act:

• The act was formed to give legal recognitions to.
• Digital Signature for authentication.
• Grant recognition for transaction carried out by means of Electronic Data Interchange.
• Facilitate electronic filing of documents with Government Departments.
• Facilitate Electronic Storage of Data.
• Legal sanctions to Electronic fund transfer between banks and financial sectors.
• Provide legal recognition for keeping accounts by bankers in electronic form.
• To amend the Indian Penal Code, Indian Evidence Act of 1872, Banker’s Book Evidence Act 1891 and the Reserve Bank Act of 1934.

The Information Technology Act, 2000 consists of 94 sections spread over 13 chapters and 4 schedules. This Act is extended to the whole of India and it applies to any offence committed outside India. This Act will not apply to Power of Attorney Act, Negotiable Instruments Act, India Trusts Act, Indian Succession Act, contract for sale of immovable property and any transaction or document notified by the Central Government in the official Gazette.

Digital Signature:
Digital Signature is like a handwritten signature which is difficult for the sender to forge and for the receiver to reproduce. A technology called Key Pair; Public Key is used for distribution whereas the private key is used by the user himself. Any document to be valid needs has to have integrity and signed. Hash function or hashing is used to maintain integrity and digital signature used for authentication of data. Hash Function is an algorithm which is run over the message or content of agreement and it generates a big alphanumeric number known as message digest. The message digest is encrypted with private key and generates a value known as Digital Signature.

Digital Certificate:
Digital Certificate concept was introduced to deal with the hacker who target high end security systems. It is used to ensure the receiver that the senders’ public key is valid. To obtain a digital certification the sender needs to send the public key to Certification Authority along with the information specific to its identification and other information. The Authority then verifies whether the information is valid or not. The duties of the Controllers of these certifying authorities are to exercise supervision, certify public keys, specifying the terms and conditions, specifying the contents of written or visual material along with keeping a check on experience and qualifications of the employees handling the data.

Cyber Regulations and certifying authorities:
The Government of India makes rules, Cyber Act Regulations Authority regulates and controls the participants as per rules, Controller of Certifying Authority controls these authorities, Certifying Authorities issue digital certificate for digital signatures to subscribers and the subscriber creates digital signature.

The IT Act of 2000 establishes one more Cyber Law which is known as Cyber Regulation Appellate Tribunal. This body is not bound by principle of code of civil procedure but shall follow the principles of natural justice and shall have powers in the civil court. If any order is passed against the decision of the Cyber Appellate Tribunal an appeal would be made at the High Court.

Penalties:
Networking is so much prevalent that we barely know about its consequences. Section 79 states that Network Service Providers are not liable for third party information if they prove that the offenses committed were without its consent. Damages like introduction of virus, damage to computer system, disruption in network and provide unauthorized access to computer may lead to a penalty of Rs 1 crore to the affected person if decided by the Adjudicating Officer under section 43. Likewise, sections 65 to 78 deals with computer crimes.

Punishment for publishing obscene information may lead to 5 years of imprisonment with a fine of Rs 1 to 2 lakhs. Publishing false Digital Signature will lead to an imprisonment of 2 year or a fine of Rs 1 lakh. Hacking may lead to a fine of Rs 2 lakhs or an imprisonment of 3 years.

The above mentioned rules and regulations were introduced to follow certain rules and guidelines so that one is secure from intrusion and misuse. It shall provide level of reliability by adhering to security procedures and shall ensure compliance of act.

In order to dissolve the striking economic disparity in our society, the introduction of voluntary disclosure scheme has come across as a revolutionary move to bring out the unreported income in the market. There is no doubt that the situation in India in terms of the indices of corruption has become worse over the years. VDIS is basically the immunity granted pursuant to acceptance of a declaration made under the voluntary taxation scheme.

Foreign ministers announcing voluntary disclosure schemes that taxation expert committees felt had only helped to legitimize money-laundering. The unaccounted money also feeds India’s rampant corruption machine, including election campaigns. Black-money laundering in India is a constantly evolving art, with a recent development being investing hidden funds in paintings.

There are various sources through which Black Money is generated like Evasion of taxation in various forms such as personal income and corporate tax, real estate transaction, Exciseduty evasion, Customs duty evasion(import), Evasion of sales tax, smuggling, from exports, from public expenditure, from private corporate investors, film industry, Professional income, Construction(both private and public), selling of licenses and permits, gambling, bribes, high level corruption, financial transaction, hawala, prizing, coaching classes, Swiss bank.

There are many reasons as to why black money is generated. The list is endless such as high rates of taxation, corruption business practice, stringent controls and regulations in income tax proceedings, political corruption,

Going forward, VDIS will continuously aim at increasing the number of people paying taxes. The plans will be to catch people spending on luxury items and people who can afford foreign travel.

The summer of 2012 was yet another reminder of India’s worsening power crisis. I am sure that your good self is aware of the power situation in UP and you must be making efforts to improve upon the situation. I wish to inform you that there had been no power for 14-15 hours in a day in most of the areas and whenever it is there the supply is very erratic with low voltage and tripping.f.

The above situation has possibly arisen because of multifactional problems, summary of which I am enumerating below to refresh your honor to tackle the situation more efficiently.

Less than a decade ago, in 2003, when the situation was very bad, two key interventions aimed at stemming the rot in the sector were announced with much fanfare. One, the losses of state electricity boards (SEBs) were taken over through RBI-guaranteed bonds as a “one-time” financial clean-up exercise. Plus, the landmark Electricity Act 2003 simultaneously heralded a booster dose of fresh reforms, including the unbundling of distribution utilities, limited “open access” to consumers, state power regulators and a platform for independent tariff fixation. But the sector is back in mess, probably in a much worse position that it was 10 years ago.

As a measure to fill the gap new power projects with a capacity of 120000 MW, have been sanctioned by Govt of India and are being implemented in various states in Govt as well as private sector. Out of which as much as 48,000 megawatts (MW) of new generating capacity has come up but only a fraction of this is being used. There are several reasons for this.

One, coal supplies are scarce because output from state-owned Coal India cannot keep up with explosive demand in growth. Imports are an option, but across the world, coal prices have spiked and using imported coal as fuel increases the price of electricity. States regulate the purchasing as well as selling price of power to be followed by SEBs. Governments virtually avoid raising the rates of electricity upwards even if the customers are willing to pay. The SEBs is, therefore, reluctant to purchase power as it has to be sold at a price which is below their cost price (Regulated by State government). Thus the SEBs are forced to restrict power purchases, as a result the generators have to keep capacity idling. This is a ridiculous situation in an electricity-starved nation.

A decade of political opportunism has also reversed many of the gains of early power reforms.
Many state governments give free or near-free electricity to farmers and unlimted free electricity to the existing /retired employees of SEBs. Inevitably, this translates into bankrupt state electricity boards and erratic, low-quality supplies with farmers paying a steep price to run diesel pumps and generators.
The power ministry alone cannot solve this problem. It has to be a composite effort by the state as well as central government and certain policy as well as operational decisions will have to be taken which may improve the situation. Few of the suggestions are as under.

POLICY DECISIONS /Actions to be taken by central government

1. The government has to first scrap the 1973 Act that nationalized coal mining. Professional miners should be allowed to explore and mine coal, for boosting supplies.
2. Regulators in the states and the Centre should offer the flexibility to adjust power tariffs up or down so that supply matches demand.
3. To ensure that states have an incentive to act, bodies like the Finance Commission and the National development council should link central funding to progress in power reforms. The needed reforms call for political leadership and courage, not technocratic tinkering.
4. Free the distribution sector from state government control. Then only one can see a growth in the sector. No business, either in private sector or in Govt sector would survive if the commodity (electricity) is sold below cost price. Simple economic common sense!!! If the drainage at the distribution level is plugged, the power sector will see a turn-around for the better. Customers are willing to pay for reliable and round the clock power, even if it is expensive. Cost of no power is much higher than cost of costly power!! In fact higher electricity cost would induce energy saving solutions at the consumer end!

OPERATIONAL DECISIONS/Action to be taken by the state Government.

1. The state government should effectively persuade and follow-up with central Government for speeding up actions as above.
2. All classes of public has to be educated / motivated well with the ideas of power generation, consumption, various tariff implementation and acceptance to be done.
3. Subsidized power supply to the farmers be demolished.
4. Unlimited Free electricity to the existing and retired employees of the SEBs has resulted to its gross misuse. It should either be stopped or at least should be restricted to some limits. In the alternative they may be charged their consumption at some discounted rate.
5. The power tariffs may be suitably increased to support the SEBs financially. While doing so the rates for the small users may remain untouched but rate for the consumers with high consumptions may be increased substantially. In fact they are, at present, using diesel sets to get a regular supply and are bearing high costs. They will certainly be willing to pay for reliable and round the clock power, even if it is expensive.
6. All over head Distribution lines to be changed to underground cable services to avoid power theft by looping method.
7. All the Electromechanical energy meters to be replaced with digital energy meters.
8. Prepaid energy metering to be done to avoid loss in collection of revenue after usage of electricity. In India still a very huge revenue is pending against bill payments from politicians, which could be recovered by implementing prepaid system and this should be approved to them only when the pending bill are realized that too by giving a very short stipulated time period for their bill payments without having second chance.
9. There are lots of flaws in distribution of power at consumer sides due to higher no of officials & contractors but not designing proper loads for the DISTRIBUTION TERMINAL’s. This has to be taken care at war footing basis.
10. The DISTRIBUTION TERMINAL’s should be installed at the required regions with a higher ratings than the actual required load at that point of time so that if some 10 – 20% extra load could be added in a span of 2-5 years.
11. All the installations whether it is at Generation, Transmission or at Distribution should be evaluated with Star Ratings and should be with Warranty at least for 5 – 7 years.
12. At regular interval of time the Transformers should be maintained (by oil filtrations, changing breathers, changing gaskets & lightening arrestors), the underground cables to be checked for insulation etc.
13. After all but without fail- removing corruption from the society as well as from department of electricity, this is mandatory.

By this we could sure the society – out of power crisis…..