Smartcity Magazine

A Sweet And Sour Central Budget for Ap and Telangana

The silence on funds for the new capital of Andhra Pradesh and metro rail projects for Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada - Guntur, are some of the negative posers of Union finance minister Arun Jaitley, in the Central budget in the post bifurcation scenario in Andhra Pradesh.

People and leaders alike had expected at least a token allocation of funds for the capital city in the budget, as the Sivaramakrishnan panel is expected to submit its report soon and the confusion surrounding its location will be cleared in a couple of days .Even the TDP chief and AP CM Chandrababu Naidu who had reposed total faith in the NDA and hoped for indicators in the budget was disappointed at the out come .But as a statesman and one not wanting to burn the birdges with the BJP and NDA so early ( unlike his Telangana counter part) Chandrababu Naidu had chosen to do a tight rope walk in racing on the budget “It is a sweet and sour budget for AP” he had said finally.

Despite lack of mention in the budget, some like senior TDP leadership is very hopeful that NDA and BJP will not abandon TDP and AP.“The finance minister has assured that the Centre is committed to fulfilling all the promises made in the AP Reorganization Bill. The issue of funding for capital can be taken up once the location is finalized,” says the finance minister Yanamala Ramakrishnudu.

In fact, soon after taking charge as CM, N Chandrababu Naidu had appealed to the people to extend financial support for the new capital. The state government has even opened a separate bank account for receipt of donations from the general public and announced income tax relief for the donors. Naidu has hinted that the capital would come up between Vijayawada and Guntur, and donations have been pouring in.

Chandrababu described the central budget as a bold step forward to put the country badly hit by mismanagement and scams of UPA govt on the track. The hike in IT tax ceiling for personal tax is a good thing for the middle classes who supported both TDP and BJP. Also allocations for IITs, AIIMS etc will help advance scientific research and education .But Naidu said the budget also was not highly optimistic for the states like AP which was still nursing the bruises of unjustified bifurcation of the state. The Kakinada hardware proposal will go a long way in promoting employment and revenues . The Funds for AIIMS, IITs and IIM will help the new state to promote education in a big way .The proposal of Vizag-Chennai industrial corridor will promote urban and rural infrastructure. In a nut shell the budget has opened up the Pandora's box of positive developments for AP.

Chandrababu Naidu has set up seven missions to speed up industrial and other developmental activities in the residuary Andhra Pradesh. Social sector mission, Primary mission, Skill development mission, Infrastructure mission, Industry mission, Service sector mission and Urban development mission are seven missions. These mission go a long way to usher in austerity, avoid wastage, as AP is facing a fiscal deficit of Rs.15,000 crore already.

AP as one of the Pilot states of the 24x7 power states is all set to earn a special place on the global IT/service/Transport/infrastructure map of the world. “Yes we are facing fiscal crunch, but soon it will be a thing of the past as we commence our missions and become fully operative in our state with our own brand new capital,” Says Chandrababu. Spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravi Shankar says “positive thinking and optimism is the first step on ladder of success”. As Ravishankar's ardent follower, TDP chief Chandrababu has always used every opportunity - good or bad for the betterment of society and of course for his political emancipation without fail.

Sour on T Share

Telangana govt did not get any special incentives in NDA's annual central budget except for an Central Horticultural University. But KCR is keen that he would re haul the entire system to rejuvenate the Administration and environment with special initiatives to see that Telagnana would emerge on top of other states in south in spite of hurdles of power, water sharing and also manpower shortfalls.

KCR Rolls out telangana budget for poll Promises

Ahead of Telagnana budget-2014-15 the Telangana CM K Chandrasekhar Rao doled out a platter of goodies for farmers, weaker sections, tribals and SC girls, students, old aged, widows, physically challenged and also tribals. Donning himself in the role of ‘Ugra Narasimha Avataram’ KCR said nobody even Government of India or Governor can halt his process of cleansing the system .

'We are announcing executive approval for the poll promises we made in general elections -2014. This part over we can concentrate on development and growth oriented programs which we will road map in the annual budget- 2014-15 ' he told the 5 hour long cabinet meeting on Wednesday evening .The annual budget is expected to be of the order of over Rs. One lakh crore to give impetus for the investment environment needed for IT, manufacturing sectors in the vast government lands of Telangana.

Apart from debt waiver for 39 lakh farmers up to Rs 1 lakh each and restriction of fee reimbursement to Telangana students who seek admission to engineering colleges, the Telangana state cabinet meeting chaired by KCR here on Wednesday took several decision, including payment of Rs 50,000 to tribals and SC girls when they get married and lifting of cases registered against youth and students since 2001.

Besides other initiatives, the focus of our growth oriented program is to make Hyderabad both an investment friendly and also safe and secure city . " it will be accident and incident free besides encroachment free city in near future with CCTV's covering every inch of Hyd amd three municipal administrations - Hyderabad , Secunderabad and Cyberabad municipal entities ' said KCR.

• Farmers’ debt waiver up to `1 lakh. Burden: Rs 17,000 crore to Rs 19,000 crore. Number of beneficiaries: 39Lakh.
• Financial assistance to students of T: Fee reimbursement to be made available to students of parents who have settled in Telangana prior to 1956.
• Three acres of land to each Dalit family.
• Special increment to Telangana employees.
• Central government pay-scales to State government employees.
• Old age pension to be Rs 1,000 per month.
• Physically challenged persons’ pension: Rs 1,500 per month.
• Kalyan Lakshmi: A scheme under which tribal and SC girls would get Rs 50,000 as financial assistance from the government.
• Case against those who took part in T movement since 2001 to be lifted.
• Agriculture University to be named after Prof K Jaya Shankar.
• More than 50,000 Telangana contract employees to be regularized.
• A tribunal to be set up to protect Wakf lands. It would be headed by a sessions judge.
• Waiver of MV Tax on three wheeler autos, tractors and trailers.
• Redesign master plan for Hyderabad- three entities- CCTV's to cover every inch - Hyd to be encrochment, incident and accident free.
• Batukamma and Bonalu are state festivals.
• Regularisation of around 40,000 contract employees.
• Tribal hamlets having 500 population are now panchayats.
• Committees with judges to study on providing reservation to Muslims and STs.
• Special Welfare Board for Gulf victims.
• Judicial status to Wakf Board to prevent entrancement of wakf lands.
• Toddy shops to be opened in Hyderabad by Dasara.
• Approval for State Advisory Council to government.
• Approval to set up TPSC.
• Approval for T State Election Commission.

Working Moms, Stay at Home Moma, and in betweens

Om Mother’s Day, children tend to give gifts to their moms whether they are working or at home moms. Some children who are away from their mothers give her a call and send her a bouquet of expensive flowers to make up for their absence. But, all said and done,whether a mom is working or an at home mom, her influence on the kids depends on the time she spends with the children. Now, there is a third category of moms that have arisen.The in between are the ones who are working from the comfort of their homes.The third category of moms have been born out of the penetration of the internet worldwide.

Way back in 1970, the US mom population was split up evenly among the working moms and the stay at home moms.This data was compiled by the Pew Research Center. As of today, there are only 29% of moms who stay at home. But, the tide is slowly shifting as there is a greater number of stay at home moms today than there were in the year 2000. Reasons for this could be the rising recession and the rising costs of childcare. Moms that work are generally educated as compared to stay at home moms who have not completed their graduation.

Nearly 80 percent of moms, of kids under 18, possessing a bachelors degree or higher are working.This can be compared to only half of moms with less than a high school diploma. A working parent means more income as educated moms will seldom like to stay in poverty, if they can help it.This means that having an educated mom is equated to being able to live above the poverty line. On the other hand, moms who do not have education are more likely to live below the poverty line. It is found that more than one-third of stay at home moms live in poverty as compared to 12% working moms.

Then there is a third variety of moms, labeled the in-betweens who work from their homes. Nowadays there are a lot of opportunities for moms who would like to look after their kids and at the same time earn a decent living.These are the in-between moms who try to put their feet in two boats, look after the kids and earn a decent living. A majority of these moms are educated, but they prefer to work from home to obviate the need for travelling to work. Also, they feel that it is better to be your own boss, rather than work for a boss.Therefore, they prefer working from their own homes.

Some of these works-at-home moms have decided to do so because their kids are their priority and they cannot leave them to private nannies.But, at the same time, they need a decent income.Therefore, they decide to take up work at home jobs.

Oh Man! Don’t Ignore Your Skin

Men tend to ignore their skin as they feel it is ‘girly’ to worry about it. Its time you change your mind set. Men and women need skin care regimen equally.Every day you brave cigarette smoke, vehicles exhaust, dust which makes it essential for you to worry about the cleanliness of your skin.

It’s very important to cleanse your face twice a day. Cleansing is all about washing your face with a cleansing soap or face wash instead of an ordinary one. It’s as simple as that. Cleansing removes all dirt and grime that accumulates on one’s skin. Make sure to follow this in the morning and before bed time.

Next step for radiant skin is to exfoliate.Yes, you need to use scrub on your face. It isn’t time consuming either. You just have to buy one good scrub and gently rub it on your face. It will help remove dirt which is clogged in your pores. You don’t have to do this on a daily basis, but only twice a week. Exfoliate your skin and see the difference.Your skin care is not complete yet.You have to moisturize your skin.Moisturising is very much required for you as men’s skin loses moisture with every stroke of razor. Along with your facial hair you tend to remove moisture unknowingly. So always apply a moisturizing cream.

Eyes and lips also need some attention.So go ahead and buy an eye cream and gently apply it under your eyes. Lip balm is another essential item you should and must have, preferably with SPF.Apply and reapply your lip balm.Follow these simple steps for a healthy, glowing skin. After all, your skin deserves at least a few minutes of attention.

Laugh and Learn

Know your idioms:

1. A whale of a time 

Meaning: If you have a whale of a time, you have a great time and really enjoy yourself.

Example: I went to a karaoke club with my friends last night and we had a whale of a time. It was great!

2. Je ne sais quoi

Meaning: Generally speaking, can be used if you're feeling particularly suave to give an explanation of something of a certain unknown or indescribable quality.

Example:  The place has a certain je ne sais quoi that really attracts me.

3. Keep fingers crossed

Meaning:  To keep your fingers crossed is used in different situations where you are wishing someone luck.This can be used when you are wishing good luck for yourself or for someone else. Don't forget that this idiom uses the plural "fingers," not the singular "finger."

Example:  I'm doing my driving test tomorrow.Keep your fingers crossed for me!

4. Last but not least

Meaning:  When introducing a number of people, this expression is used to assure the audience that the last person mentioned is no less important than those previously named.

Example:  And now, last but not least, here is the final candidate.

5. Get on one's nerves

Meaning: When someone's being annoying and you're wishing they'd stop.

Example:  Hey! Tell your dog to leave me alone! He keeps sniffing me and it’s getting on my nerves.”

Laugh out loud: This is the age of seasonal jokes.This is haleem season so social media is abuzz with haleem jokes. Besides enjoying this majestic dish you can ‘laugh over it’ too. Here are a few (in case you missed):

Tongue Twisters:

Kitty caught the kitten in the kitchen Sheena leads, Sheila needs. Four furious friends fought for the phone.
Gobbling gorgoyles gobbled gobbling goblins.
The sixth sick Sheik's sixth sheep is sick

Riddles

1. When does an Indian Potato changes its nationality ?
2. Why is 6 so much afraid of 7?
3. Why are televisions attracted to people ?
4. If it took twelve men eighteen hours to build a wall, how long would it take nine men to build it?
5. What does an Island and the letter T have in common ?

Answers

1. When it becomes French fries
2. Because seven was hungry and 'seven ate nine' (7, 8, 9).
3. Because people turn them on!
4. No time at all it is already built
5. They're both in the middle of wa'T'er.

Still Birth Symptoms and Reasons

Ababy who is dead at its birth is referred to as still born baby or the birth process is known as the stillbirth.The baby might have died during the pregnancy that is called as inter- uterine death or IUD; it might die when the mother is in labour or even during the birth process.

The symptoms of still birth

The first and foremost symptom is that the baby stops moving inside the uterus. The mother needs to do kick counting after about five months of pregnancy; the baby needs to move at least ten times a day, anything less than that may indicate that something wrong might have happened.Some other important symptoms that can be related to stillbirth are the vaginal bleeding and abdominal contraction or premature labour. If any of the symptoms is noticed, the mother needs to be rushed to a hospital where she will undergo an ultrasound that will detect the exact reason behind all these signs.

What happens when a stillbirth incident is detected before birth?

When it is detected that the baby had died in the uterus, the doctors will induce labour pain in order to bring out the baby from the mother’s womb. If the condition of the mother is serious,a surgery may also be done to detach the dead baby from its mother. Some parents may like to have natural labour pain while some want to do it in an artificial way. However, this depends upon the health of the expectant mother. It is always advice to remove the dead foetus from inside the mother’s body as soon as possible as it may encourage septicemia in the mother and can even prove fatal for the mother as well.

What if the baby dies during birth?

This situation is absolutely traumatic for any parent on this earth, who waits eagerly for thirty four long weeks to welcome the newest member of their family and then suddenly receives the news about the stillbirth that happened when the mother was delivering her baby. Such cases generally arise when some problems arise in the placenta or the umbilical cord that prevent the flow of oxygen from reaching the baby.This might happen during the immense pressure that both the mother and her baby undergo during the delivery.There are cases where the baby has been strangulated by the umbilical cord during the delivery resulting in stillbirth.

Is the mother allowed to see the baby after a still birth?

That totally depends upon the circumstances regarding the childbirth and the policies of the hospital or the nursing home where the incident of the stillbirth happened. If the baby die very prematurely then some times the doctors may not allow the parents to have look at their dead baby as the vision may be too devastating for them to handle. In such cases they might hear about the baby from the doctors or the midwife. It is always better to cherish good memories and forget the grieving ones.

The historical past of Hyderabad

Hyderabad, the Joint capital of the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana contains a prolonged history starting from the period of King Ashoka in third century B.C. Immediately after the downfall of Mauryan Kingdom, Satavahana dynasty came to rule.They reigned over the place for about four hundred and fifty years and in 220 A.D., the power had gone into the hands of the Andhra Ishvaku empire.Buddhism spread out within this location in the course of that time. Chalukyas and then Kakatiyas created their empire close to Warangal till finally the place went into the control of the Delhi Sultanate in 1321. At this time there had been repeated battles in between Bahmani Sultanate and Vijayanagara Rayas for setting up control above the region.

The historic name of Hyderabad was Golconda.There is an interesting and romantic story how the spot got the name.The Hyderabad city. During the rule of QutbShahi dynasty, the fifth king of this sequence, Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah established the town in the year 1591. When he was 14 years old, this guy was crazily in love with the Hindu dancer Bhagmati. He frequently went for the village of Chichlam across Musi River in order to meet her. It is said that Sultan Ibrahim,father of Quli Qutb Shah constructed the Purana Pul or the Old Bridge over the River Musi so that his son might manage to go across it without any kind of issue.Quli Qutb Shah named the city after his dearest wife as Bhagyanagar.Eventually Bhagmati changed to Islam and so had taken the name Hyder Mahal.Therefore the name of the town was also changed into Hyderabad.

Qutb Shahi kings ruled Hyderabad in between 1518 and the year 1687. In the course of this period many great constructions and architectural structures were constructed including Charminar, the most popular edifice.There had been totally 8 Qutb Shahi rulers and in the course of the reign of the last king, Abul Hasan Tana Shah, Mughal King Aurangazeb captured the place. On 22nd September 1687, Golconda became a portion of the Mughal region. Aurangazeb constructed Mecca Masjid in 1693. Immediately Aurangazeb changed his capital from Hyderabad to Aurangabad, Hyderabad lost its significance.In the year 1713, Qamaruddin had been appointed as the Governor of Deccan area and then in the year 1724, he announced him as the Nizam-ul-Mulk. He was in fact the founder of the Asaf Jahi dynasty.The Nizam of Hyderabad changed the capital back to Hyderabad and the spot regained its lost magnificence.They reigned over the place from 1724 to the year 1948. Qamaruddin was known as as Asaf Jah I. Seven generations of kings of the dynasty dominated over the Hyderabad city, making it the greatest Muslim province in India. The very last Nizam of Hyderabad was Mir Osman Ali Khan - the seventh Nizam.

When there had been a announcement of Indian Independence provided by the British governor, all the private states were given option to be part of either India or Pakistan or to stay private. All the states wished to turn out to be a portion of Indian Union except Hyderabad. Nizam of The Hyderabad city desired to remain independent and so he signed a standstill agreement. Nonetheless, India insisted that The Hyderabad city should be a part of Indian Union and therefore to tighten up the noose, it enforced an economical blockade in the year 1948. Finally Sardar Vallabhai Patel the then deputy PM of India took military action against the province and lastly on eighteenth September 1948 Hyderabad gave up.On first November 1956 , the new state of Andhra Pradesh was established on language marks with Hyderabad as the capital.The Hyderabad photos and Hyderabad videos identified online present the wonderful buildings of Qutb Shahi dynasty as well as Nizam empire.

Euphoria at Bonalu

This is the first bonalu after the formation of the newly appointed state of Telangana which is the epicenter of bonalu festival. Telangana government has declared it as an official festival of the state.The history of Bonalu festival traces back to 1813. It is believed that an epidemic broke out in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad, killing hundreds of people, as Goddess Mahankali was angry with them.They prayed to the goddess and promised to install her statue in the city, pleased she saved the people. Since then they offer Bonam- rice cooked with milk and jaggery,to Goddess Mahankali.

It is also believed that the Goddess visits her maternal home during the Aashadam month, July-August, and in her honour this special dish is prepared.It signifies the usual special meals pre-pared when a daughter visits maternal home from her marital home.Women carry earthen pots containing Bonam, decorated with neem leaves,turmeric, vermilion and a lamp (Diya) and offer bangles and saree to the Goddess. A colorful, paper structure supported by sticks, called as Thottelu is offered to the Goddess as a mark of respect.

The women carrying Bonam are believed to possess the spirit of the goddess.Before the procession a woman standing atop of an earthen pot predicts future, this is called as rangam.Believing that the Goddess is invoked onto her, devotees ask her questions about the future. Usually Rangam predicts on set of monsoon. Later, the procession starts, led by Potharaju, brother of the Goddess. A bare bodied man draped in a dhoti anointed with turmeric, vermilion dances to whip lashes and drum beats represents ‘Potharaju’. Since he leads the procession of dancing women, he is called as the protector.Earlier devotees used to sacrifice a male buffalo in front of the temple, to ward off evil and now roosters are being sacrificed.

The festival kick starts from Mahankali temple at Golconda Fort on first Sunday, followed by other temples where Goddess Mahankali is worshipped with her varied names.The procession is held on large scale in major temples of Golconda, Secunderabad and Lal Darwaza. Processions of these temples are carried on decorated elephants, provided by Nehru Zoological Park.The festival concludes by immersing Ghatam- a copper pot, at Nayapul.

Sling in Style

You have an injured arm which requires you to wear an arm sling ahead of a close relative’s wedding to attend.There is an important event and you are worried about looking droopy in a boring ‘arm sling’. No matter how beautiful your dress and makeup might be, an arm sling is more than enough to outdo your perfect look.Fret not; you can follow the foot steps of Mariah Carey, Esha deol, Priety Zinta.These divas didn’t let their injuries ruin their celebrations. You can also set a style statement by sporting stylish arm slings. Give those boring arm slings a makeover and make it a fashion accessory instead and rock the celebration. Recover in style!

You can use a bedazzled arm sling for sparkling Indian weddings and functions à la Esha deol. You can actually request your designer to customize your arm sling to go with your outfit. Esha deol was spotted in glamourous arm slings through out sister Ahana Deols wedding celebrations. Each of her arm slings were a perfect match, which went really well with her outfits. Don’t let your injury dampen your spirits. Recover in style!

Film City

desperate to shed item girl image?

You must have heard rivalry in film industry, it is not going to end anytime soon especially between heroines.They don’t mind frowning at each other even in public. They are jealous when a good role goes out of their hand or (read as ‘good money’).The same happened in the case of Charmi and Sunny Leone. Of late Charmi is being approached only for item numbers.This chubby actor has made an item girl image for herself.The actor was reportedly miffed when she learnt that Sunny was paid a whopping amount for her special role in 'Current Theega'.She was overheard telling her friends that she could have done the same role for lesser remuneration. Is she desperate to shed her item girl image? Whatever. Well dear, the film makers surely know who is worth what!

John-ash to work together

Its official now! John Abraham is all set to be a part of Sanjay Gupta’s upcoming movie ‘Jazba’.The film stars Aishwarya in the lead role. Aishwarya is making a comeback with this film after a long break. John and Aishwarya have never worked together in the past. However they were supposed to be a part of a film titled Happy Birthday, which never took off. Jazba will be John's fifth film with Gupta after Zinda, Shootout at Lokhandwala, Shootout at Wadala and Gupta's next-in-line Mumbai Saga. Jazba is going to be an action packed thriller which will go on floors early next year.

Will luck favour Taapsee?

Samantha was expected to dance on stage for a medley of hit Telugu and Tamil songs at Filmfare awards function, but at last minute she had to back out because of her commitment to ‘Rabhasa' makers. Curly haired beauty Taapsee was chosen as a replacement.If you remember, Tamanna was recognized by bollywood after she danced for filmfare. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for Taapsee too.

Kajal is ‘Not’ doing item song

Rumours are that Kajal Agarwal is doing an item number in upcoming film ‘Geethanjali'. It was reported that she would be dancing to a raunchy song in Anjali starrer horror thriller. It was also speculated that Kajal will be shaking a leg with ace comedian Brahmanandam in the song.This doe eyed beauty took to her official Facebook page to rubbish the talks.

From being Tiger to Kareena

Of late Tiger Shroff is in news, no not for his movie Heropanti, but for his resemblance with another bollywood actor. He neither resembles Amitabh Bachchan nor SRK, but Kareena! Social media is abuzz with four-steps to convert Tiger to Kareena. However the actor has taken it in positive spirit and he finds it as a compliment. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Tiger said, "Yes, I’ve seen it. It was quite funny. I take it as a compliment to be compared to a woman as pretty as Kareena Kapoor Khan.” Good that it doesn’t put him down. You have to pay a price to be in limelight.

Why Huma shying away?

This chirpy actor who once used to be media friendly but has changed now. She even used to open up about personal questions on marriage and relationships. In the past the actor was linked with Anurag Kashyap, Shahid Kapoor, and director Abhishek Chaubey. According to the grape vine, Huma’s name is once again being linked with Salman Khan’s brother Sohail Khan.The actor is refusing to interact with the media.

It all started with Huma supporting Sohail’s team at the Celebrity Cricket League this year. And onlookers say Sohail is often spotted visiting Huma’s new flat in Andheri. Some media persons asked her about her linkup. “I think I’ve spoken a lot about people I’ve been linked with. I wouldn’t like to talk about my personal life. If I’m with somebody you’ll get to know,” is what she has said. Aham what can we say!

Will School Bus Make Life Better ?

Recent news reports cited that a three year old kid was knocked down by his school bus.This happens every year.In another incident, a six year old girl in Chennai fell to death through a hole in the floor of her school bus.Such incidents have started alarming parents of kids who travel by school buses. Although, there are private taxis available for ferrying the kids to and fro to school, not many parents can afford these services primarily because of their exorbitant charges.

Therefore, they settle for the cheaper school buses. After the above incidents,the Supreme Court decided to lay down guidelines which school buses must follow for safety.These guidelines have already come into effect from 1st May 2013, and are now being implemented in majority of schools. School bus accidents have become so common in India that at times they often do not make more than a single column in newspapers.Yet, parents on their part are not raising their voices on them. Although,many parents who were spoken to had a lot of reservations in the public transport system of their child, they were loathe to raise their voices. A parent whose kid goes to a reputed international school in Whitefield complained that the school bus dropped her daughter’s classmate in front of her society’s gate at a different time than the usual one. At such a time,the assistant in the bus did not even bother to check out whether there was anybody present to receive the child.

Many parents also have issues with buses which do not follow the speed limit and their frolicking children, who are playing inside, getting hurt due to this. One parent even approached her school with a suggestion that the school bus should have seat belts for the children. Unfortunately, her child’s school has not taken her suggestion seriously enough. When this issue was raised in a parent’s open house, one parent commented that in India parents do not wear seatbelts so how can we expect children to obey. 

Jinal Chedda, a stay at home mom, and founder of the facebook group for Bangalore moms, does not have any complaints with her son’s transport system,but she says that the school should set a speed limit and ask drivers to adhere to it. She also says that there should be some attendant in the bus to look after the safety of the kids inside the bus. She has voiced a fear that many parents have and which cannot be changed by the Supreme Court ruling.Other drivers could drive rashly and still there could be accidents involving the school bus.The WHO in its first ever global status report on Road safety pointed out that the mortality rates of children in India per one lakh people is 19.This is because, when most parents are hunting for schools,they usually look at factors like student teacher ratio in class, the curriculum, academic record, sports facilities offered by the school and such other things.They seldom look at the facility of school transport of their kid.Therefore,it remains to be seen whether the Supreme Court ruling will have any effect on school bus accidents.

Challenges of Population Explosion

India is predicted to have overtaken China as the world's most populous nation by 2050. In an already overcrowded world, richer countries are being asked to share responsibility for the problem of this population explosion,which to a large extent is due to poverty.The growth rate of population is a function of migration, birth rate and death rate in a country.The difference between the birth rate and the death rate measures the growth rate of population. According to estimates,Indian population has risen 1,270,272,105 (1.27 billion) out of which female constitute 614,397,079 (614.4 million), male 655,875,026 (655.8 million) and tribal 104,281,034.The high population growth rates are due to high birth rate and fast declining death rates due to better sanitation and health facilities.However, the capacities to absorb increasing manpower are much weaker.

Furthermore, the process of economic development tends to be more capital intensive under modern technological conditions, and hence, has less potential of employment generation in the short run. Since the total size of the population is already large, there is urgency for speedy achievement of demographic transition from high birth rate to low birth rate resulting in lower population growth.

The effects of the rapid population growth in India like providing employment to growing population, problem of utilisation of manpower, over-strained infrastructure,pressure on land and other renewable natural resources, increased cost of production and inequitable distribution of income are hindering with development of the country.World Population Day is being observed on 11th July across the world every year.

Population and sex ratio

Sex ratio is an important parameter that reflects the status of women in society. Some of the worst gender ratios,indicating gross violation of women’s rights are found in south and East Asian countries such as India and China. In India sex-ratio is declining reaching upto 928:1000. But more important and serious thing is that with social, educational, economic development,it is declining. In 2011 Census it is seen that in all states except Bihar, Gujarat and Jammu Kashmir the sex ratio is increased, it is also increased in Union Territories except Dadra & Haveli and Daman & Diu.Female Mortality Rate is observed to be very low in most of parts of Northern India. But comparatively sex ratio is high in Southern States of India.Reasons for neglect of girl child and low levels of sex ratio are son preference,low status of women, social and financial security associated with sons,socio-cultural practices including dowry and violence against women.Small family norm may be a catalyst in the declining child sex ratio.

Population and Environment

The United Nations Conference on the Human Environment held in Stockholm in 1972 (United Nations,1973) stated that the growth of population in certain areas, through both net migration and national increase,had accelerated the rates that could frustrate all the efforts to conquer poverty and underdevelopment and to maintain a safe and stable environment.The unprecedented consensus at the ICPD in 1994 squarely underscored the complex interrelationships between population, sustained economic growth, poverty and the environment.The programme of action stressed the need for integrating population and environment issues in planning and decision-making and for modifying unsustainable consumption and production patterns in order to foster sustainable resource use and prevent environmental degradation. It is also called for the implementation of policies to address the ecological implications of population dynamics. Rapid population growth and poverty in country are adversely affecting the environment.

As the 21st century begins,growing number of people and rising levels of consumption per capita are depleting natural resources and degrading the environment. In India,the rapid increase of population combines with desperate poverty to deplete and pollute local resource bases on which the livelihood of present and future generations depends.Though the relationship is complex,population size and growth tend to expand and accelerate these human impacts on the environment.The number of population rise will increase to such an extent in future that it will cause overall scarcity for resources. India is having 18 percent of the world's population on 2.4 percent of its land area which has great deal of pressure on its all natural resources.

City of Nizam’s festive farourite

India is a land of festivals, where people celebrate every occasion with fun and happiness. To double the value of these festivals and occasions hotels in Hyderabad always brings special arrangements and discount tariffs on the hotel accommodation.

Hotels are considered to be the second home for the travel buffs. With the growth and development of nation there has been a huge improvement in the hospitality industry also.The industry has improved itself as per the changing trends and to match the high standard of living of the people. India is a country with rich heritage and diverse culture.Every city of the country depicts some uniqueness and specialty of the place.Every city has a long and old tale associated with it.These tales tells us the growth and success stories of India.Hyderabad is the joint capital of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh states.The city alone incorporates people from all the cities of India. The reason behind this is many. World’s renowned educational institutes and universities providing education in every field, existence of domestic and multinational companies, well established businesses, political hub etc... are some of the key features of the city.

Apart from this the city has been bejewelled by the Rajas and Maharajas with aesthetically designed monuments,forts, temples, tombs that attract tourists from across the globe to visit and view them. Hospitality industry is continuously developing with the flourishing tourism industry.There are around thousand of hotels in Hyderabad which have been divided in three categories.These categories include two stars, three, four and five star hotels. Some hotels are specially made taking consideration about medium class people and these are named as economy hotels in Hyderabad and budget hotels in Hyderabad while some other especially caters the needs and luxury requirements of aristocrats.During the festive seasons hotels offer exciting deals on room tariffs and amenities provided.

Some people think that the tariff of the hotel rooms always rise at the time of festivals like New Year, Christmas,Ramzan, sankranthi, Dasara and summer holidays etc. But, this is not true for all the hotels.There are a lot of budget hotels which offer a perfect blend of cost and amenities at this time.If you want to view and grab these deals and discounts you can just browse on the internet. You will find a lot of options and can pick the one according to your budget. Now , double the value of your celebrations with affordable Hyderabad hotels tariff, wrapped with the warm hospitality.

Bustickets go online

Buses are one of the important modes of transportation, both in rural as well as urban areas.Compared with other modes of transportation,the bus offers greater flexibility.Hyderabad, Vijayawada,Visakhapatnam ,Mumbai, Chennai and Bangalore acts as the lifeline.Bus travelling has come of age in the past couple of years because of the facilities that are available for the travellers or daily commuters these days.The emergence of technology and the availability of bus tickets online, people are keener in opting for bus travelling to ply between cities and even between states at affordable rates.

There are numerous bus fare deals now than it was previously with new bus travel agencies pouring into the scene. It is the commuters who are getting benefitted as they now have the option to save enough money on travelling to places. Bus booking online  is a simple way to book your seat on a luxury coach without waiting in long queues to get it done. Most of the travel agencies now have their own official websites that facilitate online ticket booking without any hassle.However, it is important for people who are looking to book bus tickets from these websites to be absolutely sure that they are opting for the right agencies that are reputed and reliable.There are plenty of ways to find out the legitimacy of these travel agencies from various online sources and one should research a bit at first,which is quite obvious.

Wide array of options available

Bus travelling is more comfortable these days because there are wide variants of buses or coaches that are available to the travellers at their disposal.Whether one is looking for a normal bus or a luxury deluxe coach, the choice is up to the travellers and the rates do vary. However, the kind of facilities and comfortable ride they get for the payments they make is simply value for money. Moreover, travellers do not require registration and even if they do, most travel agencies do not charge any registration fee.This is simply to ensure that they woo customers without any prior conditions, which makes the process streamlines and smooth.This is the age of Internet and people prefer looking for things online,so the websites offer easy to use interface and secured payment gateways so that customers feel comfortable while booking bus tickets online.There are plenty of reviews and testimonials that are available online and these can help customers to sort out the best from the rest. Moreover, people prefer to go with the services that offer lucrative deals and promotional offers that can help them from wasting unnecessary money on travelling.

Booking online is fast paced and easy

Bus booking online is available from several travel agencies and this is leading to a tough competition in the market among the private players.However, all these facilities have also helped these agencies to make huge profits , but the sector has still a lot to offer apart from some jaw-dropping offers.There are quite a few customers or bus travellers who are not fully satisfied with the services that are available from the agencies.They feel that the customer support should be more prompt than it is now. Most of the travellers are quite satisfied with bus fares and ease of booking.

Untold Story of Nag Panchami

We accidentally dial a wrong helpline number and end up troubling Varun, but he patiently answers all our queries.The moment we spot a snake we think of killing it. But this software engineer along with hundred other likeminded volunteers at ‘Friends of Snakes’ think of rescuing them. The love for wild life conservation drove Varun, to become a friend of snakes.

He shares with us one fact about snakes, which most of us doesn’t know. “Not many know about the cruelty meted out to snakes ahead of Nag Panchami. Usually snake worshippers think that snake drinks milk during Naag Panchami.Snakes can’t digest milk because they are not mammals.A month before Naag Panchami snake charmers cut the fangs of snakes and ties their mouth. They are not fed and are kept in a dark box for a month. On that particular day snakes are released. The snake will be so thirsty that not only milk even if you put maaza, thumbs-up, or pepsi it will drink that also, as it is the only option available. Since milk doesn’t suit them some of them die,he says.”

If you spot snake charmers on Nag Panchami give a call on 8347233366 and do your bit to save snakes.

Snakes attack when threatened

Avinash Vishvanathan, General Secretary of Friends of Snakes talks to Syeda Zahara Jabeen about the organization, different species of snakes and much more.

Q: Tell us about Friends of Snakes?

A: Friends of snake is an organization which rescues snakes. However,it is not limited to rescuing snakes. We conduct awareness programs in schools, colleges etc to educate about the different species of snakes. We sometimes join with the forest department and carry anti-poaching operations.

Q: What are the different species of snakes that are found in India?

A: Basically in India we have about 300 species of which only 60 are venomous. In Hyderabad we have only three types of venomous snakes- Common Krait which is black with white lines and is mostly found at night. Russell’s viper, it is four to five feet in length and has oval dark patches and the third one is Spectacled Cobra which is brown in colour with a hood.

Q: What is the total number of snakes that are rescued so far?

A: In 2013 alone we have rescued 2,567 snakes. And we have conducted around three hundred awareness programs educating more than three lakh people.

Q: What should we do if we spot a snake?

A: Don’t try to go near it. Snakes usually attack when they are threatened.Call on our 24X7 helpline number 8374233366 and keep an eye on the snake.

Q: How long will the rescuers take to reach a spot? Do you people charge?

A: Basically we take about 15-20 minutes to reach the spot as we have placed rescuers at different places across the city. And as far as ‘charge’ is concerned, our rescuer will ask for Rs 350. We don’t force any one to pay for a rescue operation. We generate funds through conducting workshops and awareness programs.

Q: After rescuing a snake what do you do with it?

A: We put them in our shelter located at Sainikpuri. Within a week we obtain permission from forest department and release them in the forest. We also treat injured snakes. If it’s a serious injury then we take help of Veterinarian from Nehru Zoological Park.

Q: Who can be a part of this organization?

A: Well, anybody who is passionate about the cause can be a member. But we strictly scrutinize the person who approaches us because there are people who want to join just to pose with snakes. Some people may want to catch snakes and sell them. In order to avoid misuse, we scrutinize the person.

Q: Tell us about the training?

A: Usually a volunteer undergoes training for a month. It again depends on the individual, some people grasp very quickly. First they are taught identification of venomous and nonvenomous snakes.Then they are made to handle a non-venomous snake before sending them for rescue operations.