Friday, August 22, 2008
Thursday, August 21, 2008
The Cold War, reheated - Los Angeles Times
The Cold War, reheated - Los Angeles Times
Time travel is easy! If you lay the groundwork, that is -- and believe me, we did.
First, after the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, we graciously provided a little economic "shock therapy" designed to turn our "defeated" former enemy into a prospering capitalist democracy. Regrettably, we instead helped plunge Russia into an economic catastrophe. This annoyed the Russians. But we continued to help by treating Russian officials as washed-up has-beens and by expanding NATO to include most of Russia's former satellites.
In a transparent bid for attention, Russia flattened most of Chechnya. We ignored this. When authoritarian crackdowns and rising oil prices turned Russia into a repressive economic powerhouse, we still paid little attention. We pushed to include Georgia and Ukraine in NATO and proposed placing missile defense systems in Poland and the Czech Republic. When the Russians told us they saw this as a hostile act, we continued to ignore them.
Finally, the stars were in alignment. So when tiny Georgia rashly tried to seize control of separatist South Ossetia and the Russians responded with a massive military intervention, we understood that at last we had an opportunity to travel back in time -- to the Cold War.
Time travel is easy! If you lay the groundwork, that is -- and believe me, we did.
First, after the Soviet Union collapsed in 1991, we graciously provided a little economic "shock therapy" designed to turn our "defeated" former enemy into a prospering capitalist democracy. Regrettably, we instead helped plunge Russia into an economic catastrophe. This annoyed the Russians. But we continued to help by treating Russian officials as washed-up has-beens and by expanding NATO to include most of Russia's former satellites.
In a transparent bid for attention, Russia flattened most of Chechnya. We ignored this. When authoritarian crackdowns and rising oil prices turned Russia into a repressive economic powerhouse, we still paid little attention. We pushed to include Georgia and Ukraine in NATO and proposed placing missile defense systems in Poland and the Czech Republic. When the Russians told us they saw this as a hostile act, we continued to ignore them.
Finally, the stars were in alignment. So when tiny Georgia rashly tried to seize control of separatist South Ossetia and the Russians responded with a massive military intervention, we understood that at last we had an opportunity to travel back in time -- to the Cold War.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Atlantic Eye: Lost lessons of the Cold War
Atlantic Eye: Lost lessons of the Cold War:
"Several strategic blunders in the past year have led to Russia's incursion into Georgia. A missile-defense shield, which even U.S. experts doubt works, has been sold to Poland and the Czech Republic as though it were Moses speaking down from the mountain. The West rushed to recognize Kosovo, caring nothing about Russia's sensitivities or those of the Abkhazians or South Ossetians or the implications of other folks seeking self-determination.
The biggest strategic blunder was not joining Russia in placing the missile-defense system in Azerbaijan. The Russians understood rightly -- keep your friends close, keep your enemies closer. But even a cynic knows the Russian plan bore an honest effort to build bridges.
Russia's response to Georgia is, in fact, a response to this series of perceived insults. Kosovo was the last drop -- but it all began to unravel with Azerbaijan. The U.S. rejection of the offer (see my column 'Putin's Bush-whack') convinced the Russians that the United States was being disingenuous about the intentions of the missile shield. It convinced Russia that it was not for Iran and the Middle East, but a Trojan horse against Russia. Many security experts in the United States -- and out -- agree with this assessment.
Had the United States -- and the European Union countries -- been on the ball, they would have used thethey would have used the European Union, not NATO -- at least initially -- to engender the expansion of stability. The Russians would not object to Georgia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Armenia and Turkey being part of the EU. I have been told this up and down the chain of command in Moscow.
Russia wants to be a regional player and a global energy superpower. It wants to have influence over near markets. It wants to have global influence in oil, gas and energy security. Said a foreign minister to me, "Like the Monroe Doctrine, Russia wants to keep an eye on her backyard. The United States is mistaken to underestimate her will to do this." I echoed this in several of my last columns."
"Several strategic blunders in the past year have led to Russia's incursion into Georgia. A missile-defense shield, which even U.S. experts doubt works, has been sold to Poland and the Czech Republic as though it were Moses speaking down from the mountain. The West rushed to recognize Kosovo, caring nothing about Russia's sensitivities or those of the Abkhazians or South Ossetians or the implications of other folks seeking self-determination.
The biggest strategic blunder was not joining Russia in placing the missile-defense system in Azerbaijan. The Russians understood rightly -- keep your friends close, keep your enemies closer. But even a cynic knows the Russian plan bore an honest effort to build bridges.
Russia's response to Georgia is, in fact, a response to this series of perceived insults. Kosovo was the last drop -- but it all began to unravel with Azerbaijan. The U.S. rejection of the offer (see my column 'Putin's Bush-whack') convinced the Russians that the United States was being disingenuous about the intentions of the missile shield. It convinced Russia that it was not for Iran and the Middle East, but a Trojan horse against Russia. Many security experts in the United States -- and out -- agree with this assessment.
Had the United States -- and the European Union countries -- been on the ball, they would have used thethey would have used the European Union, not NATO -- at least initially -- to engender the expansion of stability. The Russians would not object to Georgia, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Armenia and Turkey being part of the EU. I have been told this up and down the chain of command in Moscow.
Russia wants to be a regional player and a global energy superpower. It wants to have influence over near markets. It wants to have global influence in oil, gas and energy security. Said a foreign minister to me, "Like the Monroe Doctrine, Russia wants to keep an eye on her backyard. The United States is mistaken to underestimate her will to do this." I echoed this in several of my last columns."
Op-Ed Columnist - What Did We Expect? - Op-Ed - NYTimes.com
Op-Ed Columnist - What Did We Expect? - Op-Ed - NYTimes.com:
"Let’s start with us. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, I was among the group — led by George Kennan, the father of “containment” theory, Senator Sam Nunn and the foreign policy expert Michael Mandelbaum — that argued against expanding NATO, at that time.
It seemed to us that since we had finally brought down Soviet communism and seen the birth of democracy in Russia the most important thing to do was to help Russian democracy take root and integrate Russia into Europe. Wasn’t that why we fought the cold war — to give young Russians the same chance at freedom and integration with the West as young Czechs, Georgians and Poles? Wasn’t consolidating a democratic Russia more important than bringing the Czech Navy into NATO?
All of this was especially true because, we argued, there was no big problem on the world stage that we could effectively address without Russia — particularly Iran or Iraq. Russia wasn’t about to reinvade Europe. And the Eastern Europeans would be integrated into the West via membership in the European Union.
No, said the Clinton foreign policy team, we’re going to cram NATO expansion down the Russians’ throats, because Moscow is weak and, by the way, they’ll ge"
"Let’s start with us. After the collapse of the Soviet Union, I was among the group — led by George Kennan, the father of “containment” theory, Senator Sam Nunn and the foreign policy expert Michael Mandelbaum — that argued against expanding NATO, at that time.
It seemed to us that since we had finally brought down Soviet communism and seen the birth of democracy in Russia the most important thing to do was to help Russian democracy take root and integrate Russia into Europe. Wasn’t that why we fought the cold war — to give young Russians the same chance at freedom and integration with the West as young Czechs, Georgians and Poles? Wasn’t consolidating a democratic Russia more important than bringing the Czech Navy into NATO?
All of this was especially true because, we argued, there was no big problem on the world stage that we could effectively address without Russia — particularly Iran or Iraq. Russia wasn’t about to reinvade Europe. And the Eastern Europeans would be integrated into the West via membership in the European Union.
No, said the Clinton foreign policy team, we’re going to cram NATO expansion down the Russians’ throats, because Moscow is weak and, by the way, they’ll ge"
Op-Ed Contributor - Russia Never Wanted a War - Op-Ed - NYTimes.com
Op-Ed Contributor - Russia Never Wanted a War - Op-Ed - NYTimes.com:
"In recent days, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and President Bush have been promising to isolate Russia. Some American politicians have threatened to expel it from the Group of 8 industrialized nations, to abolish the NATO-Russia Council and to keep Russia out of the World Trade Organization.
These are empty threats. For some time now, Russians have been wondering: If our opinion counts for nothing in those institutions, do we really need them? Just to sit at the nicely set dinner table and listen to lectures?
Indeed, Russia has long been told to simply accept the facts. Here’s the independence of Kosovo for you. Here’s the abrogation of the Antiballistic Missile Treaty, and the American decision to place missile defenses in neighboring countries. Here’s the unending expansion of NATO. All of these moves have been set against the backdrop of sweet talk about partnership. Why would anyone put up with such a charade?
There is much talk now in the United States about rethinking relations with Russia. One thing that should definitely be rethought: the habit of talking to Russia in a condescending way, without regard for its positions and interests.
"In recent days, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and President Bush have been promising to isolate Russia. Some American politicians have threatened to expel it from the Group of 8 industrialized nations, to abolish the NATO-Russia Council and to keep Russia out of the World Trade Organization.
These are empty threats. For some time now, Russians have been wondering: If our opinion counts for nothing in those institutions, do we really need them? Just to sit at the nicely set dinner table and listen to lectures?
Indeed, Russia has long been told to simply accept the facts. Here’s the independence of Kosovo for you. Here’s the abrogation of the Antiballistic Missile Treaty, and the American decision to place missile defenses in neighboring countries. Here’s the unending expansion of NATO. All of these moves have been set against the backdrop of sweet talk about partnership. Why would anyone put up with such a charade?
There is much talk now in the United States about rethinking relations with Russia. One thing that should definitely be rethought: the habit of talking to Russia in a condescending way, without regard for its positions and interests.
Our two countries could develop a serious agenda for genuine, rather than token, cooperation. Many Americans, as well as Russians, understand the need for this. But is the same true of the political leaders?"
Monday, August 18, 2008
Darpa Pushes To Transition Technology | AVIATION WEEK
Darpa Pushes To Transition Technology | AVIATION WEEK:
"The key word in Darpa's name is 'projects,' says Welby. 'A project is something with a defined start, defined finish and clearly defined objectives. Something that can be written on a single piece of paper.' The goal is to 'prove the feasibility of a concept and take the specific technology risk off the table.'
Darpa's strength as an organization is in its structure, or lack thereof. The agency owns no facilities and has no infrastructure that needs long-term programs for support. Instead, it pursues high-risk, high-payoff research through short-term projects with aggressive technical goals. Project managers stay for only four years.
'They are all temporary hires,' says Welby, 'They are here to get something done. The clock is ticking, and there is personal pressure to advance the state of the art on very aggressive timelines.' Welby left Darpa at the end of July after an unusually long 11 years at the agency - first as program manager, then later as office director.
'You can change rapidly and move quickly when 25% of your people change out every year,' he says. 'You would never want to run a business this way, but for preventing technological surprise and being the engine of innovation - it's perfect.'"
"The key word in Darpa's name is 'projects,' says Welby. 'A project is something with a defined start, defined finish and clearly defined objectives. Something that can be written on a single piece of paper.' The goal is to 'prove the feasibility of a concept and take the specific technology risk off the table.'
Darpa's strength as an organization is in its structure, or lack thereof. The agency owns no facilities and has no infrastructure that needs long-term programs for support. Instead, it pursues high-risk, high-payoff research through short-term projects with aggressive technical goals. Project managers stay for only four years.
'They are all temporary hires,' says Welby, 'They are here to get something done. The clock is ticking, and there is personal pressure to advance the state of the art on very aggressive timelines.' Welby left Darpa at the end of July after an unusually long 11 years at the agency - first as program manager, then later as office director.
'You can change rapidly and move quickly when 25% of your people change out every year,' he says. 'You would never want to run a business this way, but for preventing technological surprise and being the engine of innovation - it's perfect.'"
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Military Analysis - Russians Melded Old-School Blitz With Modern Military Tactics - Military Analysis - NYTimes.com
Military Analysis - Russians Melded Old-School Blitz With Modern Military Tactics - Military Analysis - NYTimes.com:
"This was not the Russian Army from the humiliation of Afghanistan, and it’s not the Russian military that had to flatten Chechnya to save it,” said one Pentagon official knowledgeable of how the fighting unfolded. Another said: “The Russian military is back. They are to be contended with.”"
"This was not the Russian Army from the humiliation of Afghanistan, and it’s not the Russian military that had to flatten Chechnya to save it,” said one Pentagon official knowledgeable of how the fighting unfolded. Another said: “The Russian military is back. They are to be contended with.”"
So along with the old-school onslaught of infantry, armor and artillery, Russia mounted joint air and naval operations, appeared to launch simultaneous cyberattacks on Georgian government Web sites and had its best English speakers at the ready to make Moscow’s case in television appearances.
If the rapidly unfolding events caught much of the world off guard, that kind of coordination of the old and the new did not look accidental to military professionals.
“They seem to have harnessed all their instruments of national power — military, diplomatic, information — in a very disciplined way,” said one Pentagon official, who like others interviewed for this article disclosed details of the operation under ground rules that called for anonymity. “It appears this was well thought out and planned in advance, and suggests a level of coordination in the Russian government between the military and the other civilian agencies and departments that we are striving for today.”
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
In Hanford, Wash., the country's most polluted nuclear reactor site draws tourists - Los Angeles Times
In Hanford, Wash., the country's most polluted nuclear reactor site draws tourists - Los Angeles Times:
"HANFORD REACH NATIONAL MONUMENT, WASH. -- Aplatoon of double-crested cormorants took flight from the eastern shore of the Columbia River, skimming the sun-sparkled surface as two slender white egrets stood in the nearby shallows, hunting small fish hiding in the reeds.
Twenty kayakers, mostly tourists from the Pacific Northwest, paddled along, letting the steady current do most of the work. They coasted past mule deer grazing on the shore, coyotes stalking the sandy beaches and cliff swallows buzzing the nearby white bluffs.
But the main attraction was on the western shore: several bland, industrial-gray structures and towering smokestacks, a collection of buildings that gave birth to America's atomic age.
Welcome to the Hanford Reach, where one of the last free-flowing stretches of the Columbia River encounters America's most contaminated nuclear site. Along this flat, mostly treeless scrubland, the U.S. government built nine reactors between 1943 and 1963, including the historic 'B' plant that produced the world's first weapons-grade plutonium for the nuclear bomb dropped on Nagasaki, Japan, in World War II.
"HANFORD REACH NATIONAL MONUMENT, WASH. -- Aplatoon of double-crested cormorants took flight from the eastern shore of the Columbia River, skimming the sun-sparkled surface as two slender white egrets stood in the nearby shallows, hunting small fish hiding in the reeds.
Twenty kayakers, mostly tourists from the Pacific Northwest, paddled along, letting the steady current do most of the work. They coasted past mule deer grazing on the shore, coyotes stalking the sandy beaches and cliff swallows buzzing the nearby white bluffs.
But the main attraction was on the western shore: several bland, industrial-gray structures and towering smokestacks, a collection of buildings that gave birth to America's atomic age.
Welcome to the Hanford Reach, where one of the last free-flowing stretches of the Columbia River encounters America's most contaminated nuclear site. Along this flat, mostly treeless scrubland, the U.S. government built nine reactors between 1943 and 1963, including the historic 'B' plant that produced the world's first weapons-grade plutonium for the nuclear bomb dropped on Nagasaki, Japan, in World War II.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Smaller NSG nations for changes in N-deal?-India-The Times of India
Smaller NSG nations for changes in N-deal?-India-The Times of India:
"The non-pro crowd at the NSG wants to put in amendments that will cover three main subjects — asking India to join the NPT and CTBT, putting the civilian nuclear facilities under permanent safeguards (no matter what happens to the fuel supplies) or a roundabout way of introducing the deleted para 4 of the NSG guidelines which will 'require' comprehensive safeguards. There may even be a brave attempt to put in a so-called 'testing clause'.
The para 4 'condition' will certainly be raised, officials feel. The original inclusion in the US draft was the work of the American government's own non-proliferation officials who thought the NSG could take away what they considered to be the 'free pass' that their own government seemed to be giving to India. Of course, India and US could have 'convinced' many of these conscientious objectors before the actual meeting.
What kind of conditions can India live with? Well, for the past three decades or more, India has successfully fended off calls to join the NPT or, more recently, CTBT from the world. So it will have no problems with such prescriptive 'conditions'. The issues will come from things like permanent safeguards — because the basis of the Indian deal is 'permanent safeguards for permanent fuel"
"The non-pro crowd at the NSG wants to put in amendments that will cover three main subjects — asking India to join the NPT and CTBT, putting the civilian nuclear facilities under permanent safeguards (no matter what happens to the fuel supplies) or a roundabout way of introducing the deleted para 4 of the NSG guidelines which will 'require' comprehensive safeguards. There may even be a brave attempt to put in a so-called 'testing clause'.
The para 4 'condition' will certainly be raised, officials feel. The original inclusion in the US draft was the work of the American government's own non-proliferation officials who thought the NSG could take away what they considered to be the 'free pass' that their own government seemed to be giving to India. Of course, India and US could have 'convinced' many of these conscientious objectors before the actual meeting.
What kind of conditions can India live with? Well, for the past three decades or more, India has successfully fended off calls to join the NPT or, more recently, CTBT from the world. So it will have no problems with such prescriptive 'conditions'. The issues will come from things like permanent safeguards — because the basis of the Indian deal is 'permanent safeguards for permanent fuel"
Obama without his script - Los Angeles Times
Obama without his script - Los Angeles Times:
"The campaign significance for Obama is easier to calculate. He has been playacting at being presidential in order to convince voters that we live in a 'new moment' with 'new challenges' -- and that he is the president we need for this new era.
This moment calls for more than playacting, yet Obama looks lost without a presidential script. Events in the Caucasus -- and, for that matter, in Beijing -- suggest that the times aren't so new after all. Two powerful antidemocratic foes are once again flexing their muscles at a moment when America seems weak and distracted.
That is not a new challenge but a very old one. Perhaps this is not a time for a novice spouting grand rhetoric about a new page in history, but for someone who's actually read the pages of some old, but still relevant, books. Perhaps this is not the time for playacting.
Perhaps it is not the time for body surfing?"
"The campaign significance for Obama is easier to calculate. He has been playacting at being presidential in order to convince voters that we live in a 'new moment' with 'new challenges' -- and that he is the president we need for this new era.
This moment calls for more than playacting, yet Obama looks lost without a presidential script. Events in the Caucasus -- and, for that matter, in Beijing -- suggest that the times aren't so new after all. Two powerful antidemocratic foes are once again flexing their muscles at a moment when America seems weak and distracted.
That is not a new challenge but a very old one. Perhaps this is not a time for a novice spouting grand rhetoric about a new page in history, but for someone who's actually read the pages of some old, but still relevant, books. Perhaps this is not the time for playacting.
Perhaps it is not the time for body surfing?"
Monday, August 11, 2008
BBC NEWS | Health | Running 'can slow ageing process'
BBC NEWS | Health | Running 'can slow ageing process':
"And there was no evidence that runners were more likely to suffer osteoarthritis or need total knee replacements than non-runners - something scientists have feared."
"And there was no evidence that runners were more likely to suffer osteoarthritis or need total knee replacements than non-runners - something scientists have feared."
Friday, August 08, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: Nuclear soothsayers’ group
IndianExpress.com :: Nuclear soothsayers’ group:
"It needs to be noted that the NSG only issues guidelines: each participating state will decide, on the basis of its own export control laws, how it should implement the guidelines. To that extent, even if there is a clean waiver, India will have to negotiate with supplier countries on an individual basis, before commercial contracts can be signed for the import of reactors, technology or fuel.
The choice before the NSG should be clear; if the waiver is not acceptable to India, it would be free to go its own way. This would surely not be in the interest of the global non-proliferation regime. On the other hand, a clean waiver would make India a powerful partner in the struggle against proliferation and the efforts towards nuclear disarmament."
"It needs to be noted that the NSG only issues guidelines: each participating state will decide, on the basis of its own export control laws, how it should implement the guidelines. To that extent, even if there is a clean waiver, India will have to negotiate with supplier countries on an individual basis, before commercial contracts can be signed for the import of reactors, technology or fuel.
The choice before the NSG should be clear; if the waiver is not acceptable to India, it would be free to go its own way. This would surely not be in the interest of the global non-proliferation regime. On the other hand, a clean waiver would make India a powerful partner in the struggle against proliferation and the efforts towards nuclear disarmament."
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
The Minimalist - A Restaurant in Nice That’s Rich, Luxurious and Vegetarian - NYTimes.com
The Minimalist - A Restaurant in Nice That’s Rich, Luxurious and Vegetarian - NYTimes.com:
"FROM the outside, there is nothing very unusual about La Zucca Magica, a restaurant by the harbor here. At most, you might notice the words on the awning: “restaurant au légumes, oeufs et fromages” (vegetables, eggs and cheeses).
But once you enter, its unusual character begins to become evident. The restaurant is decorated almost exclusively with gourds and artwork made from them: sculptures, bowls and other containers, masks, puppets and toys. Gourds are featured in paintings, photographs, tapestries and posters, and on mirrors. They hang from the ceiling like salamis at Zabar’s.
This is not a gourd restaurant, but the décor and the name (“zucca” may refer generically to any squash or gourd, though in Italy the word is also used specifically for a small, pumpkin-like squash) are tied to the cuisine. The cooking at La Zucca Magica is vegetarian.
In itself this is not so extraordinary, but there is the matter of its location. (The French can be quite hostile to vegetarianism.)"
"FROM the outside, there is nothing very unusual about La Zucca Magica, a restaurant by the harbor here. At most, you might notice the words on the awning: “restaurant au légumes, oeufs et fromages” (vegetables, eggs and cheeses).
But once you enter, its unusual character begins to become evident. The restaurant is decorated almost exclusively with gourds and artwork made from them: sculptures, bowls and other containers, masks, puppets and toys. Gourds are featured in paintings, photographs, tapestries and posters, and on mirrors. They hang from the ceiling like salamis at Zabar’s.
This is not a gourd restaurant, but the décor and the name (“zucca” may refer generically to any squash or gourd, though in Italy the word is also used specifically for a small, pumpkin-like squash) are tied to the cuisine. The cooking at La Zucca Magica is vegetarian.
In itself this is not so extraordinary, but there is the matter of its location. (The French can be quite hostile to vegetarianism.)"
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Op-Ed Columnist - Texas to Tel Aviv - Op-Ed - NYTimes.com
Op-Ed Columnist - Texas to Tel Aviv - Op-Ed - NYTimes.com
Agassi’s plan, backed by Israel’s government, is to create a complete electric car “system” that will work much like a mobile-phone service “system,” only customers sign up for so many monthly miles, instead of minutes. Every subscriber will get a car, a battery and access to a national network of recharging outlets all across Israel — as well as garages that will swap your dead battery for a fresh one whenever needed.
Pickens is motivated by American nationalism. Because of all the money we are shipping abroad to pay for our oil addiction, he says, “we are on the verge of losing our superpower status.” His vision is summed up on his Web site: “We import 70 percent of our oil at a cost of $700 billion a year ... I have been an oil man all my life, but this is one emergency we can’t drill our way out of. If we create a renewable energy network, we can break our addiction to foreign oil.”
Agassi’s plan, backed by Israel’s government, is to create a complete electric car “system” that will work much like a mobile-phone service “system,” only customers sign up for so many monthly miles, instead of minutes. Every subscriber will get a car, a battery and access to a national network of recharging outlets all across Israel — as well as garages that will swap your dead battery for a fresh one whenever needed.
Pickens is motivated by American nationalism. Because of all the money we are shipping abroad to pay for our oil addiction, he says, “we are on the verge of losing our superpower status.” His vision is summed up on his Web site: “We import 70 percent of our oil at a cost of $700 billion a year ... I have been an oil man all my life, but this is one emergency we can’t drill our way out of. If we create a renewable energy network, we can break our addiction to foreign oil.”
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: Aye
IndianExpress.com :: Aye:
"This is, indeed, about more than the nuclear deal. Now, it is with democratic sanction that India negotiates its place in the new world order — a negotiation based on its strategic interests, and without the exclusionary costs that it has borne for more than three decades for keeping it nuclear programme. Don’t be blindsided by Tuesday’s disruptions. India’s democracy has scored another victory."
"This is, indeed, about more than the nuclear deal. Now, it is with democratic sanction that India negotiates its place in the new world order — a negotiation based on its strategic interests, and without the exclusionary costs that it has borne for more than three decades for keeping it nuclear programme. Don’t be blindsided by Tuesday’s disruptions. India’s democracy has scored another victory."
Monday, July 21, 2008
The Americans are coming!-INDIASPORA-Chidanand Rajghatta-Columnists-Opinion-The Times of India
The Americans are coming!-INDIASPORA-Chidanand Rajghatta-Columnists-Opinion-The Times of India
Americans aren't as verbose or eloquent (your call) now. A US general, who was asked to surrender by an Axis commander, is said to have responded with one word — "Nuts." Asked about their India experience, Americans encapsulate Twain's sentiment with a single word — "Wow." Follow up and ask them "Wow good or wow bad?" and they'll say, "Wow good and wow crazy." Welcome to India, folks; may your tribe increase, even if the nuclear deal goes into deep freeze.
Americans aren't as verbose or eloquent (your call) now. A US general, who was asked to surrender by an Axis commander, is said to have responded with one word — "Nuts." Asked about their India experience, Americans encapsulate Twain's sentiment with a single word — "Wow." Follow up and ask them "Wow good or wow bad?" and they'll say, "Wow good and wow crazy." Welcome to India, folks; may your tribe increase, even if the nuclear deal goes into deep freeze.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Op-Ed Columnist - So Popular and So Spineless - Op-Ed - NYTimes.com
Op-Ed Columnist - So Popular and So Spineless - Op-Ed - NYTimes.com:
". Perfect we are not, but America still has some moral backbone. There are travesties we will not tolerate. The U.N. vote on Zimbabwe demonstrates that this is not true for these “popular” countries — called Russia or China or South Africa — that have no problem siding with a man who is pulverizing his own people.
So, yes, we’re not so popular in Europe and Asia anymore. I guess they would prefer a world in which America was weaker, where leaders with the values of Vladimir Putin and Thabo Mbeki had a greater say, and where the desperate voices for change in Zimbabwe would, well, just shut up."
". Perfect we are not, but America still has some moral backbone. There are travesties we will not tolerate. The U.N. vote on Zimbabwe demonstrates that this is not true for these “popular” countries — called Russia or China or South Africa — that have no problem siding with a man who is pulverizing his own people.
So, yes, we’re not so popular in Europe and Asia anymore. I guess they would prefer a world in which America was weaker, where leaders with the values of Vladimir Putin and Thabo Mbeki had a greater say, and where the desperate voices for change in Zimbabwe would, well, just shut up."
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Business & Technology | Dreamliner problem solver helps everyone "get it done" | Seattle Times Newspaper
Business & Technology | Dreamliner problem solver helps everyone "get it done" | Seattle Times Newspaper:
"Geiger, now Boeing's director of production systems for commercial-airplane programs, said Shanahan is 'irreverent' toward corporate bureaucracy and dismissive of managers who sit in their offices and 'don't connect with the people doing the work that pays their salaries.'"
"Geiger, now Boeing's director of production systems for commercial-airplane programs, said Shanahan is 'irreverent' toward corporate bureaucracy and dismissive of managers who sit in their offices and 'don't connect with the people doing the work that pays their salaries.'"
Friday, July 11, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: Single personality disorder
IndianExpress.com :: Single personality disorder:
"The tendency to personalise all serious issues is like a chronic disease with us. And nobody is immune to this. Nothing, no ideology, scholarship or experience or wisdom protects us from it. It clouds our judgment and forces us to make blunders based on likes or dislikes for individuals or our own prejudices. The obvious trap then is to address that individual first, ignoring the “issue”, and results usually are disastrous."
"The tendency to personalise all serious issues is like a chronic disease with us. And nobody is immune to this. Nothing, no ideology, scholarship or experience or wisdom protects us from it. It clouds our judgment and forces us to make blunders based on likes or dislikes for individuals or our own prejudices. The obvious trap then is to address that individual first, ignoring the “issue”, and results usually are disastrous."
IndianExpress.com :: Text in context
IndianExpress.com :: Text in context:
"A collateral benefit of the political gamesmanship that has taken place on the Indo-US nuclear deal is the amazing popular literacy on the subject. So, even as political controversy swirled over the manner in which the draft of the India-specific safeguards agreement with the IAEA was made available online, assorted, non-technical voices conceded that it is a very good draft. What occasions this satisfaction? First, the safeguards agreement’s consistency with the 123 agreement and the separation plan makes it a sustainable document. Two, it recognises India’s nuclear weapons programme. Three, and extremely significantly, it addresses India’s apprehensions on disruption of supplies, fears that come from memories of the Tarapur atomic power station. And taken together, the big picture accommodates India’s aspirations and actual role as a partner in the management of the global order."
"A collateral benefit of the political gamesmanship that has taken place on the Indo-US nuclear deal is the amazing popular literacy on the subject. So, even as political controversy swirled over the manner in which the draft of the India-specific safeguards agreement with the IAEA was made available online, assorted, non-technical voices conceded that it is a very good draft. What occasions this satisfaction? First, the safeguards agreement’s consistency with the 123 agreement and the separation plan makes it a sustainable document. Two, it recognises India’s nuclear weapons programme. Three, and extremely significantly, it addresses India’s apprehensions on disruption of supplies, fears that come from memories of the Tarapur atomic power station. And taken together, the big picture accommodates India’s aspirations and actual role as a partner in the management of the global order."
Thursday, July 10, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: Close reading the IAEA safeguards
IndianExpress.com :: Close reading the IAEA safeguards:
"The DAE does not want a repetition of the experience of Tarapur Atomic Power Station, built with US assistance in the 1960s, where Washington and later Paris had reneged on its promises to supply fuel for the TAPS. Contrary to the attempts to impute a variety of motives to India, New Delhi’s nuclear behaviour has been absolutely responsible. Despite the denial of international cooperation, India never pulled the TAPS out of the IAEA safeguards.
For nearly sixty years, the principal objective of the DAE has been to mobilise modern science and technology in the service of national development. This has been hampered by a series of international nuclear sanctions against India since 1974. The Indo-US deal of July 2005 outlined a broad basis for India’s re-entry into the global nuclear order. The safeguards agreement with the IAEA was about translating it into a honourable and sustainable framework for India’s nuclear cooperation with the international community. That is precisely what the DAE has negotiated with considerable skill."
"The DAE does not want a repetition of the experience of Tarapur Atomic Power Station, built with US assistance in the 1960s, where Washington and later Paris had reneged on its promises to supply fuel for the TAPS. Contrary to the attempts to impute a variety of motives to India, New Delhi’s nuclear behaviour has been absolutely responsible. Despite the denial of international cooperation, India never pulled the TAPS out of the IAEA safeguards.
For nearly sixty years, the principal objective of the DAE has been to mobilise modern science and technology in the service of national development. This has been hampered by a series of international nuclear sanctions against India since 1974. The Indo-US deal of July 2005 outlined a broad basis for India’s re-entry into the global nuclear order. The safeguards agreement with the IAEA was about translating it into a honourable and sustainable framework for India’s nuclear cooperation with the international community. That is precisely what the DAE has negotiated with considerable skill."
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: Message is the fight
IndianExpress.com :: Message is the fight
India, with its regional and enhanced global footprint, its strong relations with the developed world, and a growing capacity to play a meaningful role against terrorism, can only expect to be in the cross-hairs of extremist elements. It needs to further strengthen the global campaign against terrorism through its intelligence and security cooperation with all countries. It should also insist on ever stronger action by major powers to demand of Pakistan evidence of concerted action against the Taliban and al-Qaeda presence in its territory. The Kabul attack will remain one more piece of evidence, if it was needed, of the price India has and will continue to pay in its fight against terrorism.
India, with its regional and enhanced global footprint, its strong relations with the developed world, and a growing capacity to play a meaningful role against terrorism, can only expect to be in the cross-hairs of extremist elements. It needs to further strengthen the global campaign against terrorism through its intelligence and security cooperation with all countries. It should also insist on ever stronger action by major powers to demand of Pakistan evidence of concerted action against the Taliban and al-Qaeda presence in its territory. The Kabul attack will remain one more piece of evidence, if it was needed, of the price India has and will continue to pay in its fight against terrorism.
Monday, July 07, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: On Hokkaido time
IndianExpress.com :: On Hokkaido time
The stage, then, is all set for a titanic international contest between India’s nuclear friends and critics. With so little time left, the action is bound to be swift and exhilarating. As Manmohan Singh embarks upon one of India’s most consequential diplomatic campaigns, it is time to fasten our seat-belts.
The stage, then, is all set for a titanic international contest between India’s nuclear friends and critics. With so little time left, the action is bound to be swift and exhilarating. As Manmohan Singh embarks upon one of India’s most consequential diplomatic campaigns, it is time to fasten our seat-belts.
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Saturday, July 05, 2008
The Saturday Profile - Frontier Years Give Might to Ex-Guerrilla’s Words - Biography - NYTimes.com
The Saturday Profile - Frontier Years Give Might to Ex-Guerrilla’s Words - Biography - NYTimes.com:
As fluent a talker as he is a writer, Mr. Rashid, 59, has just published his fourth book, “Descent into Chaos, The United States and the Failure of Nation Building in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Central Asia,” a caustic review of the mistakes by the Bush administration in tackling Islamic militancy.
His central argument is not original: that the money and blood spent on Iraq should have been invested in Afghanistan, rebuilding the country from 2001 to prevent the resurgence of the Taliban. But it is hard to argue with, now that the Taliban are indeed back, and NATO and the United States are enmeshed in a tough fight with them.
The Bush administration, he said, was too gentle with Pakistan’s president, Pervez Musharraf, after he pledged to support the antiterrorism campaign after 9/11. “The Americans never said strongly enough that Pakistan had to stop supporting the Taliban — that was because Musharraf was giving them the Al Qaeda types,” capturing a few top Qaeda operatives and handing them over to the United States. Mr. Bush should have insisted that Musharraf quash the Taliban too, he said.
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
IIM-A alumnus sells vegetables in Patna - ExpressIndia.Com
IIM-A alumnus sells vegetables in Patna - ExpressIndia.Com:
"Asked to comment on the job offers he had, the self-effacing IIM graduate said, 'I did not opt for the placement process. So, in that sense, I had none. I saw the farmers of my vegetable-growing village eke out a living by the sweat of their brow and then watch with abject resignation the fruits of their toil rot during the floods. I always dreamt of doing something for them and I am just chasing that dream,' Kaushalendra says."
"Asked to comment on the job offers he had, the self-effacing IIM graduate said, 'I did not opt for the placement process. So, in that sense, I had none. I saw the farmers of my vegetable-growing village eke out a living by the sweat of their brow and then watch with abject resignation the fruits of their toil rot during the floods. I always dreamt of doing something for them and I am just chasing that dream,' Kaushalendra says."
Male and single?-Man-Woman-Relationships-Lifestyle-The Times of India
Male and single?-Man-Woman-Relationships-Lifestyle-The Times of India:
"The survey involving 1500 heterosexual men showed that men were 10 times more scared of marrying the wrong person than of never getting married at all.
It also found that about eight per cent of the respondents didn’t want to marry, 62 per cent wanted to marry, of which half won't settle for anything less than perfection, and about 30 per cent who are on the fence. Four out of 10 bachelors did not want children, compared to three out of 10 wanting to be a father. The rest were undecided."
"The survey involving 1500 heterosexual men showed that men were 10 times more scared of marrying the wrong person than of never getting married at all.
It also found that about eight per cent of the respondents didn’t want to marry, 62 per cent wanted to marry, of which half won't settle for anything less than perfection, and about 30 per cent who are on the fence. Four out of 10 bachelors did not want children, compared to three out of 10 wanting to be a father. The rest were undecided."
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: Try thinking big
IndianExpress.com :: Try thinking big:
"The PM has also put in enormous efforts to convince the scientific and security establishment that India’s strategic interests will not be compromised. As a member of the National Security Advisory Board, I can vouch for the fact that these issues have been discussed threadbare and in all their aspects, and there is no danger of losing out. The drive to finalize the nuclear deal can be made into as powerful a political mantra as garibi hatao or even jai jawan jai kisan. It took courage, imagination and a huge measure of self confidence for those two leaders to break through ideological cobwebs and vested interests to mobilize people around those slogans. The time has come for the PM to appeal directly to the people and explain how the nuclear deal will contribute to building a stronger India."
"The PM has also put in enormous efforts to convince the scientific and security establishment that India’s strategic interests will not be compromised. As a member of the National Security Advisory Board, I can vouch for the fact that these issues have been discussed threadbare and in all their aspects, and there is no danger of losing out. The drive to finalize the nuclear deal can be made into as powerful a political mantra as garibi hatao or even jai jawan jai kisan. It took courage, imagination and a huge measure of self confidence for those two leaders to break through ideological cobwebs and vested interests to mobilize people around those slogans. The time has come for the PM to appeal directly to the people and explain how the nuclear deal will contribute to building a stronger India."
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Abroad - In Italy, More Basta Than Bravo for Cultural Diversity - NYTimes.com
Abroad - In Italy, More Basta Than Bravo for Cultural Diversity - NYTimes.com
The Way I see it , Europe goes back and forth between welcoming immigrants to outright hatred. It gone on for Centuries!
The Way I see it , Europe goes back and forth between welcoming immigrants to outright hatred. It gone on for Centuries!
Top Engineers Shun Military; Concern Grows - NYTimes.com
Top Engineers Shun Military; Concern Grows - NYTimes.com
“We’re having awful problems with the execution of defense programs,” said Mr. Kaminski, who was the Pentagon’s top acquisition executive from 1994 to 1997. “It’s absolutely critical to start becoming more efficient, more effective.”
Mr. Kaminski is devoting much of his time as a private citizen to that goal, leading a high-level task force and visiting university campuses and military contractors to proselytize for better engineering management.
As he and other experts explain it, the central problem is a breakdown in the most basic element of any big military project: accurately assessing at the outset whether the technological goals are attainable and affordable, then managing the engineering to ensure that hardware and software are properly designed, tested and integrated.
The technical term for the discipline is systems engineering. Without it, projects can turn into chaotic, costly failures.
Increasingly, that has become the case. What is more, the loss of government expertise has magnified the difficulties associated with another trend: In recent years, the Pentagon has transferred more and more oversight responsibility to its contractors, who themselves often lack sufficient systems-engineering skill and the incentives needed to hold down costs.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Now, space cell to keep an eye on China's plans-India-The Times of India
Now, space cell to keep an eye on China's plans-India-The Times of India
In view of the looming Chinese threat to its communication network and other space assets, India on Tuesday announced the setting up of its Integrated Space Cell (ISC).
The cell is designed to counter the Chinese Military Space Systems that comprises anti-satellite weaponry and a new class of heavy-lift and small boosters acting as catalyst in the next generation satellite warfare system.
The Space Cell will be put under the command of the Integrated Defence Services Headquarters and will act as a single window for integration among the armed forces, the department of space and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).
In view of the looming Chinese threat to its communication network and other space assets, India on Tuesday announced the setting up of its Integrated Space Cell (ISC).
The cell is designed to counter the Chinese Military Space Systems that comprises anti-satellite weaponry and a new class of heavy-lift and small boosters acting as catalyst in the next generation satellite warfare system.
The Space Cell will be put under the command of the Integrated Defence Services Headquarters and will act as a single window for integration among the armed forces, the department of space and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).
Monday, June 09, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: In poll year, big states go shopping for power while the small smile
IndianExpress.com :: In poll year, big states go shopping for power while the small smile:
"With Lok Sabha polls due next year and more states gearing for Assembly polls, good governance is the buzz. Big states, anxious not to annoy voters, are rushing to buy power from energy-surplus smaller states which, in turn, are raking in huge revenues to feed their infrastructure development schemes."
"With Lok Sabha polls due next year and more states gearing for Assembly polls, good governance is the buzz. Big states, anxious not to annoy voters, are rushing to buy power from energy-surplus smaller states which, in turn, are raking in huge revenues to feed their infrastructure development schemes."
Saturday, June 07, 2008
In Shift for Japan, Salarymen Blow the Whistle - NYTimes.com
In Shift for Japan, Salarymen Blow the Whistle - NYTimes.com
A decade ago, corporate whistle-blowing was almost unheard-of in Japan. A person’s place of employment was part of his identity, and unflinching company loyalty was the highest of virtues. But the unquestioningly obedient salaryman is becoming a relic, the result of a broader transformation of Japan and the global economy.
Friday, June 06, 2008
BBC NEWS | Asia-Pacific | Recognition at last for Japan's Ainu
BBC NEWS | Asia-Pacific | Recognition at last for Japan's Ainu
Japan's parliament is to adopt a resolution that, for the first time, formally recognises the Ainu as "an indigenous people with a distinct language, religion and culture".
Japan's parliament is to adopt a resolution that, for the first time, formally recognises the Ainu as "an indigenous people with a distinct language, religion and culture".
IndianExpress.com :: ‘All the problems have been solved. Now let’s build a statue’
IndianExpress.com :: ‘All the problems have been solved. Now let’s build a statue’
We have very few and far people like this writer in India. I highly recommend reading this article.
We have very few and far people like this writer in India. I highly recommend reading this article.
This is the editorial that appeared in Loksatta (published by the Indian Express Group) on Wednesday, June 4, on the Maharashtra government’s decision to install a massive statue of Shivaji off the coast of Mumbai. The house of Loksatta editor Kumar Ketkar was attacked on Thursday
Monday, June 02, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: 'What you (Indians) are doing in England is what Jews did 30-40 years ago...Indians are now taking over local councils...you'll l
IndianExpress.com :: 'What you (Indians) are doing in England is what Jews did 30-40 years ago...Indians are now taking over local councils...you'll live to see an Indian PM of England':
"And Britain? Do you see any change there?
Massive. It is going to be taken over by the Indians. And I don't joke. This may be an old joke and you might have heard it in which case. Lord Paul's son told a wonderful story about England. He said, he had seen a van going through the East End of London, and it said, 'Patel & Patel Plumbers'. (And it had the slogan) 'You've given the cowboys a chance, why don't you let in the Indians.' That was brilliant. I though it was summing of the affection the British people have for the Indians.
•You know, as the history of the world tells us, when immigrants become successful . . . when immigrants are new, they are with the liberals, and when they become successful, they become conservatives.
And then they become prime minister. Now what you are doing is what the Jews did 30-40 years ago when they came to England after the War. They took over the local councils and they became mayors. Now they are in Parliament. The Indians are now taking over the local councils. There are mayors all over England who are Indian. You are young enough, I suspect, to live to see an Indian prime minister in England."
"And Britain? Do you see any change there?
Massive. It is going to be taken over by the Indians. And I don't joke. This may be an old joke and you might have heard it in which case. Lord Paul's son told a wonderful story about England. He said, he had seen a van going through the East End of London, and it said, 'Patel & Patel Plumbers'. (And it had the slogan) 'You've given the cowboys a chance, why don't you let in the Indians.' That was brilliant. I though it was summing of the affection the British people have for the Indians.
•You know, as the history of the world tells us, when immigrants become successful . . . when immigrants are new, they are with the liberals, and when they become successful, they become conservatives.
And then they become prime minister. Now what you are doing is what the Jews did 30-40 years ago when they came to England after the War. They took over the local councils and they became mayors. Now they are in Parliament. The Indians are now taking over the local councils. There are mayors all over England who are Indian. You are young enough, I suspect, to live to see an Indian prime minister in England."
Why it's hard to maintain weight loss - Los Angeles Times
Why it's hard to maintain weight loss - Los Angeles Times
Most people can lose weight. But few can maintain their new weight for long. Researchers are now tackling that problem, and what they're learning is disconcerting. The human body, it seems, is designed to sabotage weight loss at every turn -- once a body has been fatter, it wants to get back to the weight that it used to be. Physiology is cruelly changed in two ways: The body needs fewer calories to maintain itself, but its craving for food is more intense.
Becoming overweight, in other words, is like being issued a credit card with an uncomfortably high balance that you'll probably end up paying off forever. Making sure the pounds stay off means pitting one's willpower against a swarm of biological processes involving the brain, hormones, metabolism and fat storage.
Most people can lose weight. But few can maintain their new weight for long. Researchers are now tackling that problem, and what they're learning is disconcerting. The human body, it seems, is designed to sabotage weight loss at every turn -- once a body has been fatter, it wants to get back to the weight that it used to be. Physiology is cruelly changed in two ways: The body needs fewer calories to maintain itself, but its craving for food is more intense.
Becoming overweight, in other words, is like being issued a credit card with an uncomfortably high balance that you'll probably end up paying off forever. Making sure the pounds stay off means pitting one's willpower against a swarm of biological processes involving the brain, hormones, metabolism and fat storage.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Guerrilla gardener movement takes root in L.A. area - Los Angeles Times
Guerrilla gardener movement takes root in L.A. area - Los Angeles Times:
Part beautification, part eco-activism, part social outlet, the activity has been fueled by Internet gardening blogs and sites such as GuerrillaGardening.org, where before-and-after photos of the latest "troop digs" inspire 45,000 visitors a month to make derelict soil bloom.
Part beautification, part eco-activism, part social outlet, the activity has been fueled by Internet gardening blogs and sites such as GuerrillaGardening.org, where before-and-after photos of the latest "troop digs" inspire 45,000 visitors a month to make derelict soil bloom.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: Sonia’s choice
IndianExpress.com :: Sonia’s choice
The president of the Congress, Sonia Gandhi, is facing a lonely decision as she did in the summer of 2004 when she decided to step aside in favour of Manmohan Singh as prime minister. At that stage, she was under tremendous pressure from almost all her partymen to assume the office of the prime minister. She asserted that she was listening to her “inner voice” and therefore not accepting their near-unanimous pleas. Once again, she faces the lonely decision whether to focus on the Indian national interest and Rajiv’s legacy or be influenced by her party veterans who tend to put what they consider, often mistakenly, party interests ahead of other vital considerations.
The president of the Congress, Sonia Gandhi, is facing a lonely decision as she did in the summer of 2004 when she decided to step aside in favour of Manmohan Singh as prime minister. At that stage, she was under tremendous pressure from almost all her partymen to assume the office of the prime minister. She asserted that she was listening to her “inner voice” and therefore not accepting their near-unanimous pleas. Once again, she faces the lonely decision whether to focus on the Indian national interest and Rajiv’s legacy or be influenced by her party veterans who tend to put what they consider, often mistakenly, party interests ahead of other vital considerations.
Rajiv Gandhi presented his action plan for disarmament to the UN General Assembly on June 9, 1988, in which he fervently pleaded for global disarmament. He offered that India would not go nuclear if the world were to accept his phased disarmament plan. He asked them to negotiate a new non-discriminatory NPT. He also issued a veiled warning. He said, “Left to ourselves we would not want to touch nuclear weapons. But when tactical considerations, in the play of great power rivalry, are allowed to take precedence over the imperative of non-proliferation, with what leeway are we left?”
Rajiv Gandhi’s pleas were totally ignored. After another eight or nine months of agonising, he put India’s security and interests ahead of all other considerations and directed the weaponisation of the Indian nuclear programme. It could not have been an easy decision for him. But Indian security came first. Today, senior US statesmen like George Schultz, Henry Kissinger, William Perry and Sam Nunn invoke the words of Rajiv Gandhi to derive support for their campaign for a nuclear-weapon free world, some 19 years after Rajiv Gandhi vainly pleaded for nuclear disarmament.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
India works to end Myanmar's isolation-India-The Times of India
India works to end Myanmar's isolation-India-The Times of India
Indian officials worked with the mandarins in Naypyidaw to deliver home the simple message — Myanmar needed the international aid and its refusal could end up creating a bigger human tragedy, and more importantly, it could have political consequences that the generals would not care for at all. It wasn’t easy — this is the closest to a hermetically sealed N Korea — and these decades of isolation haven’t helped.
India even offered to ferry the international aid to Myanmar from other countries if it made them feel more comfortable. Over many discussions and conversations, the Myanmar government relented.
Through the discussions India worked quietly, careful not to upset the sensitivities of the generals, believing that quiet diplomacy would be more effective.
Indian officials worked with the mandarins in Naypyidaw to deliver home the simple message — Myanmar needed the international aid and its refusal could end up creating a bigger human tragedy, and more importantly, it could have political consequences that the generals would not care for at all. It wasn’t easy — this is the closest to a hermetically sealed N Korea — and these decades of isolation haven’t helped.
India even offered to ferry the international aid to Myanmar from other countries if it made them feel more comfortable. Over many discussions and conversations, the Myanmar government relented.
Through the discussions India worked quietly, careful not to upset the sensitivities of the generals, believing that quiet diplomacy would be more effective.
Friday, May 16, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: Junta versus Janata
IndianExpress.com :: Junta versus Janata
There are many interesting, and important conclusions to be drawn from this complex argument. But the most significant is this: a modern nation needs democracy and so it needs its politicians, however clumsy, corrupt, effete and power-crazed they may be. Because a military dictator can also be all of these things. The difference is, the political leader draws his power from the democratic process, so he has a stake in preserving that system, howsoever cynical he may be. The general draws his power by throttling the democratic system and its institutions and you can see the results of that in Pakistan. So, in a democracy, howsoever powerful a Lalu or Mayawati, they have to shut up and listen when the Supreme Court speaks. The election commission can publicly upbraid both Sonia Gandhi and Narendra Modi. We, the media, can question and curse who we want. It happens because the political class has the biggest stake in the democratic process, howsoever much it may wish to manipulate it. In contrast, a military dictator owes his power to the absence of institutions, of checks and balances. That is exactly what Musharraf has done to his judiciary, the election commission and even the media. That is why he has to summon the Scotland Yard to investigate Benazir’s assassination.
The Indian politician bumbles, the Pakistani general strides purposefully in his natty suits. Guess who keeps his country stable.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: In a subatomic spin
IndianExpress.com :: In a subatomic spin:
"There is no other way of explaining the BJP’s decision to dismiss the arguments of two individuals who helped Vajpayee put India on a bold nuclear path. One is Brajesh Mishra, Vajpayee’s national security adviser, who planned Pokharan II and managed its consequences. The other is former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who as head of DRDO organised the nuclear tests along with the Department of Atomic Energy.
Neither of these gentlemen was quick to endorse the Indo-US nuclear deal. Both had reservations on the ability of President George W. Bush and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to fully realise the historic agreement they signed on July 18, 2005. It is only after asking very difficult questions and satisfying themselves of its merits that Mishra and Kalam have come out in defence of the civil nuclear initiative. But the BJP, it seems, is in no mood to let either facts or India’s national interest come in the way."
"There is no other way of explaining the BJP’s decision to dismiss the arguments of two individuals who helped Vajpayee put India on a bold nuclear path. One is Brajesh Mishra, Vajpayee’s national security adviser, who planned Pokharan II and managed its consequences. The other is former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who as head of DRDO organised the nuclear tests along with the Department of Atomic Energy.
Neither of these gentlemen was quick to endorse the Indo-US nuclear deal. Both had reservations on the ability of President George W. Bush and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to fully realise the historic agreement they signed on July 18, 2005. It is only after asking very difficult questions and satisfying themselves of its merits that Mishra and Kalam have come out in defence of the civil nuclear initiative. But the BJP, it seems, is in no mood to let either facts or India’s national interest come in the way."
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Call Your Mother - New York Times
Call Your Mother - New York Times
I almost clicked on it, forgetting for a moment that those services would not be needed this year. My mother, Margaret Friedman, died last month at the age of 89, and so this is my first Mother’s Day without a mom.
I almost clicked on it, forgetting for a moment that those services would not be needed this year. My mother, Margaret Friedman, died last month at the age of 89, and so this is my first Mother’s Day without a mom.
Nalanda to move from ruins to riches-USA-World-The Times of India
Nalanda to move from ruins to riches-USA-World-The Times of India
We are talking here of Nalanda, the famous Indian seat of learning and one of the world's first residential universities founded some 1500 years ago that in its heyday boasted of over 10,000 students and 2,000 teachers coming from Korea, Japan, China, Tibet, Indonesia, Persia and Turkey.
We are talking here of Nalanda, the famous Indian seat of learning and one of the world's first residential universities founded some 1500 years ago that in its heyday boasted of over 10,000 students and 2,000 teachers coming from Korea, Japan, China, Tibet, Indonesia, Persia and Turkey.
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Nuclear Winter Ahead : outlookindia.com
Nuclear Winter Ahead : outlookindia.com: "The Left has opposed the deal on the ground that it will enslave India to the US. The truth is that this deal has been 17 years in the making. The groundwork for it was started not even by the Vajpayee government but by Narasimha Rao in the immediate aftermath of the first Gulf War. It is losing the deal now that will enslave India for the foreseeable future."
Thursday, May 08, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: ‘Even PM didn’t intervene... I hope the Minister learns a lesson after the verdict’
IndianExpress.com :: ‘Even PM didn’t intervene... I hope the Minister learns a lesson after the verdict’
For the last five months, Dr P Venugopal could not visit the operation theatre in the first floor of C T centre at AIIMS. But he continued to see patients who lined up outside his quarters in the campus. And now that he is back as director, he feels sad that his 40-year association with the premier medical institute is set to end soon. He retires after two months, on July 2.
“My sorrow is how could people question my integrity and commitment to poor. While 40 of my classmates are earning a lot of money outside, I preferred to serve my country,” he said. “I want to tell the people who opposed me that I was doing surgery even before they were born,” he added."
For the last five months, Dr P Venugopal could not visit the operation theatre in the first floor of C T centre at AIIMS. But he continued to see patients who lined up outside his quarters in the campus. And now that he is back as director, he feels sad that his 40-year association with the premier medical institute is set to end soon. He retires after two months, on July 2.
“Not much time is left. What will I be able to achieve? On an individual level, I would have never joined back, but even this one-and-a-half months will boost the morale of the people who stood by me,” said Dr Venugopal. “There was nothing clandestine or wrong about my extension. Today’s judgement showed that the institution is bigger than an individual,” he added.
“I have faith in the Parliament, judiciary and all the institutions in the country, but we should ensure that no individual is allowed to mislead any of these institutions,” he said, in an apparent reference to the Parliament passing the amendment to the AIIMS Act which prescribed the age limit of its director at 65 years. Venugopal was sacked after President Pratibha Patil gave assent to the law.
“My sorrow is how could people question my integrity and commitment to poor. While 40 of my classmates are earning a lot of money outside, I preferred to serve my country,” he said. “I want to tell the people who opposed me that I was doing surgery even before they were born,” he added."
IndianExpress.com :: Pokharan-III
IndianExpress.com :: Pokharan-III
Pokharan-II had opened up diplomatic options for India at a time the strategic space was shrinking rapidly. National politics, as the 10th anniversary approaches, is threatening to close those options.
Pokharan-II had opened up diplomatic options for India at a time the strategic space was shrinking rapidly. National politics, as the 10th anniversary approaches, is threatening to close those options.
Sunday, May 04, 2008
Turkish Schools Offer Pakistan a Gentler Vision of Islam - New York Times
Turkish Schools Offer Pakistan a Gentler Vision of Islam - New York Times
The Turkish schools, which have expanded to seven cities in Pakistan since the first one opened a decade ago, cannot transform the country on their own. But they offer an alternative approach that could help reduce the influence of Islamic extremists.
They prescribe a strong Western curriculum, with courses, taught in English, from math and science to English literature and Shakespeare. They do not teach religion beyond the one class in Islamic studies that is required by the state. Unlike British-style private schools, however, they encourage Islam in their dormitories, where teachers set examples in lifestyle and prayer.
The Turkish schools, which have expanded to seven cities in Pakistan since the first one opened a decade ago, cannot transform the country on their own. But they offer an alternative approach that could help reduce the influence of Islamic extremists.
They prescribe a strong Western curriculum, with courses, taught in English, from math and science to English literature and Shakespeare. They do not teach religion beyond the one class in Islamic studies that is required by the state. Unlike British-style private schools, however, they encourage Islam in their dormitories, where teachers set examples in lifestyle and prayer.
Who Will Tell the People? - New York Times
Who Will Tell the People? - New York Times: Thomas L Friedman
Who will tell the people? We are not who we think we are. We are living on borrowed time and borrowed dimes. We still have all the potential for greatness, but only if we get back to work on our country.
I don’t know if Barack Obama can lead that, but the notion that the idealism he has inspired in so many young people doesn’t matter is dead wrong. “Of course, hope alone is not enough,” says Tim Shriver, chairman of Special Olympics, “but it’s not trivial. It’s not trivial to inspire people to want to get up and do something with someone else.”
It is especially not trivial now, because millions of Americans are dying to be enlisted — enlisted to fix education, enlisted to research renewable energy, enlisted to repair our infrastructure, enlisted to help others. Look at the kids lining up to join Teach for America. They want our country to matter again. They want it to be about building wealth and dignity — big profits and big purposes. When we just do one, we are less than the sum of our parts. When we do both, said Shriver, “no one can touch us.”
Friday, May 02, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: Break in the logjam?
IndianExpress.com :: Break in the logjam?
For the NDA, and the BJP in particular, who maintain that national security is at the core of their approach to international relations, the views of two National Security Advisers should surely count for something. Even those in the US who oppose the deal recognise what Mishra said, that the Indian negotiators were able to extract concessions from the US side that would have been unthinkable even a few years ago. It is these concessions that arouse their ire. Surely it is time to set aside any petulance that might exist, and adopt an approach which would be in the national security interests of the country. As one of the Democratic senators who had serious reservations about the deal himself said “I do not like the agreement but will support it in the interests of better Indo-US relations.” That’s statesmanship. It should not be beyond the abilities of our politicians too to find a political solution out of the present logjam.
For the NDA, and the BJP in particular, who maintain that national security is at the core of their approach to international relations, the views of two National Security Advisers should surely count for something. Even those in the US who oppose the deal recognise what Mishra said, that the Indian negotiators were able to extract concessions from the US side that would have been unthinkable even a few years ago. It is these concessions that arouse their ire. Surely it is time to set aside any petulance that might exist, and adopt an approach which would be in the national security interests of the country. As one of the Democratic senators who had serious reservations about the deal himself said “I do not like the agreement but will support it in the interests of better Indo-US relations.” That’s statesmanship. It should not be beyond the abilities of our politicians too to find a political solution out of the present logjam.
Monday, April 28, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: The truth about Tehran
IndianExpress.com :: The truth about Tehran
There is nothing wrong in the US giving advice to India on the Iranian nuclear issue. That is part of international diplomacy. What is unfortunate is that our diplomats, our parliamentarians and our political leaders do not talk back and give the US sound advice in their own national interest. This lack of self-confidence reflects a still lingering colonial mentality. Instead of getting angry with the Americans, why do we not tell the American public and legislators all the things they had done to be permissive of nuclear proliferation?
There is nothing wrong in the US giving advice to India on the Iranian nuclear issue. That is part of international diplomacy. What is unfortunate is that our diplomats, our parliamentarians and our political leaders do not talk back and give the US sound advice in their own national interest. This lack of self-confidence reflects a still lingering colonial mentality. Instead of getting angry with the Americans, why do we not tell the American public and legislators all the things they had done to be permissive of nuclear proliferation?
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Thursday, April 10, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: No ordinary deal
IndianExpress.com :: No ordinary deal
The nuclear deal seeks to give India a level playing field and it is unimaginable why politics should intrude into what is clearly a matter of technology, costs and national security
The nuclear deal seeks to give India a level playing field and it is unimaginable why politics should intrude into what is clearly a matter of technology, costs and national security
Monday, April 07, 2008
Saturday, April 05, 2008
BBC NEWS | Programmes | From Our Own Correspondent | India's 'sensory assault course'
BBC NEWS | Programmes | From Our Own Correspondent | India's 'sensory assault course': "Despite the blandishments of the new superstores, shopping in India is - thank goodness - likely to remain a sensory assault course for some time to come."
Sunday, March 23, 2008
BBC NEWS | Programmes | Hardtalk | Geert Wilders
BBC NEWS | Programmes | Hardtalk | Geert Wilders
Stephen Sackur talks to Dutch Member of Parliament, Geert Wilders about his strong views on Islam in Europe.
Stephen Sackur talks to Dutch Member of Parliament, Geert Wilders about his strong views on Islam in Europe.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
IndianExpress.com :: As easy as Kosovo
IndianExpress.com :: As easy as Kosovo
We must worry about the manner in which the birth of a new nation has been engineered
We must worry about the manner in which the birth of a new nation has been engineered
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Interview with Balkans Expert Dusan Reljic: 'Kosovo Is not Independent, It Is an EU Protectorate' - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News
Interview with Balkans Expert Dusan Reljic: 'Kosovo Is not Independent, It Is an EU Protectorate' - International - SPIEGEL ONLINE - News:
"SPIEGEL ONLINE: This seems to be setting up conflicts for years to come?
Reljic: Yes. I don't really see a possibility for a normal functioning relationship between the Serbs and Albanians in the region. This outcome has been imposed on one side, and it simply undermines any kind of long term peaceful coexistence in the region."
"SPIEGEL ONLINE: This seems to be setting up conflicts for years to come?
Reljic: Yes. I don't really see a possibility for a normal functioning relationship between the Serbs and Albanians in the region. This outcome has been imposed on one side, and it simply undermines any kind of long term peaceful coexistence in the region."
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Boeing to form JV with Tatas for making aerospace components-India Business-Business-The Times of India
Boeing to form JV with Tatas for making aerospace components-India Business-Business-The Times of India: "Manufacturing capabilities established within the JV firm would in later phases be leveraged across multiple Boeing programs, including the Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) competition.
On the proposed MRO to be set up at Nagpur as a part of the offset for Air India acquiring 68 Boeing planes, US firm's President (India) Ian Thomas told reporters here, 'we have certainly decided to make the MRO operational by 2009.'
The US firm has committed to invest USD 100 million in the MRO project, besides investing additionally in a pilot training establishment for Air India as well as another for a school for training for pilots."
On the proposed MRO to be set up at Nagpur as a part of the offset for Air India acquiring 68 Boeing planes, US firm's President (India) Ian Thomas told reporters here, 'we have certainly decided to make the MRO operational by 2009.'
The US firm has committed to invest USD 100 million in the MRO project, besides investing additionally in a pilot training establishment for Air India as well as another for a school for training for pilots."
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Monday, December 24, 2007
The Secular Hypocrisy : outlookindia.com
The Secular Hypocrisy : outlookindia.com
It is Modi's rejection of the hypocrisy of the self-styled secularists which makes him stand apart as a Hindu leader with a difference in the eyes of his admirers, enabling them to say, "Say You Are A Hindu, Hold Your Head High".
It is Modi's rejection of the hypocrisy of the self-styled secularists which makes him stand apart as a Hindu leader with a difference in the eyes of his admirers, enabling them to say, "Say You Are A Hindu, Hold Your Head High".
Monday, December 17, 2007
IndianExpress.com :: Celebrating an innovative India
IndianExpress.com :: Celebrating an innovative India:
From little-known Government departments to some of the most celebrated corporate brands, the EMPI-Indian Express Indian Innovation Awards have picked up a wide range of winners for this year’s edition. The winners were picked up from more than 400 applications after a rigorous three-stage evaluation process. There were 20 organisations in the final shortlist, from which the 14 winners were selected. The selection panel was headed by eminent scientist M G K Menon and included academics, technologists, consultants and administrators. The entire process was moderated and validated by Boston Consulting Group, India, with its chairman Arun Maira playing a key role. In this two-part series, The Indian Express brings you a short profile of each of the winners. Today, we carry the nine Gold awardees, which will be followed by profiles of the five silver awardees tomorrow.
"India on the Move, the Entrepreneurship genie is finally out of bottle in India."
From little-known Government departments to some of the most celebrated corporate brands, the EMPI-Indian Express Indian Innovation Awards have picked up a wide range of winners for this year’s edition. The winners were picked up from more than 400 applications after a rigorous three-stage evaluation process. There were 20 organisations in the final shortlist, from which the 14 winners were selected. The selection panel was headed by eminent scientist M G K Menon and included academics, technologists, consultants and administrators. The entire process was moderated and validated by Boston Consulting Group, India, with its chairman Arun Maira playing a key role. In this two-part series, The Indian Express brings you a short profile of each of the winners. Today, we carry the nine Gold awardees, which will be followed by profiles of the five silver awardees tomorrow.
"India on the Move, the Entrepreneurship genie is finally out of bottle in India."
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Sunday, December 02, 2007
Saturday, December 01, 2007
IndianExpress.com :: The right to test again
IndianExpress.com :: The right to test again
Contrary to assertions of the opponents of the 123 Agreement, it strengthens India’s position on testing compared to the situations in 1974 and 1998. At that time when tests were conducted, the US imposed sanctions. Article 14 of the 123 Agreement provides that there will have to be one year’s notice before termination of the agreement and there should be consultations. Article 14(2) says “They further agree to take into account whether the circumstances that may lead to termination or cessation resulted from a party’s serious concern about a changed security environment or as a response to a similar action by other states which could impact national security.”
Contrary to assertions of the opponents of the 123 Agreement, it strengthens India’s position on testing compared to the situations in 1974 and 1998. At that time when tests were conducted, the US imposed sanctions. Article 14 of the 123 Agreement provides that there will have to be one year’s notice before termination of the agreement and there should be consultations. Article 14(2) says “They further agree to take into account whether the circumstances that may lead to termination or cessation resulted from a party’s serious concern about a changed security environment or as a response to a similar action by other states which could impact national security.”
Further, article 13(1) stipulates “The parties recognise that such consultations are between two states with advanced nuclear technology which have agreed to assume the same responsibilities and practices and acquire the same benefits and advantages as other leading countries with advanced nuclear technology”.
In these two clauses Indian diplomats have secured the country’s right to test if the security environment deteriorates and if the US or any other nuclear weapon power were to test. In other words, the 123 Agreement strengthens India’s hands immeasurably in terms of the right to test in case of some other power testing or serious deterioration in security environment. It would appear that articles 13 and 14 of the agreement have not been carefully studied by those who oppose it.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Intolerant Malaysia, tolerant faith?-The Right View-Tarun Vijay-Columnists-Opinion-The Times of India
Intolerant Malaysia, tolerant faith?-The Right View-Tarun Vijay-Columnists-Opinion-The Times of India
I highly recommend reading this. I think it shows the true nature of secular India, why blame anyone else for our own misery.
I highly recommend reading this. I think it shows the true nature of secular India, why blame anyone else for our own misery.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Follow the Fundamentals - New York Times
Follow the Fundamentals - New York Times
In the World Economic Forum survey, the U.S. comes in just ahead of Switzerland, Denmark, Sweden and Germany (China is 34th). The U.S. gets poor marks for macroeconomic stability (the long-term federal debt), for its tax structure and for the low savings rate. But it leads the world in a range of categories: higher education and training, labor market flexibility, the ability to attract global talent, the availability of venture capital, the quality of corporate management and the capacity to innovate.
William W. Lewis of McKinsey surveyed global competitive in dozens of business sectors a few years ago, and concluded, “The United States is the productivity leader in virtually every industry.”
Second, America’s fundamental economic strength is rooted in the most stable of assets — its values. The U.S. is still an astonishing assimilation machine. It has successfully absorbed more than 20 million legal immigrants over the past quarter-century, an extraordinary influx of human capital. Americans are remarkably fertile. Birthrates are relatively high, meaning that in 2050, the average American will be under 40, while the average European, Chinese and Japanese will be more than a decade older.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
The Big Sleep - New York Times
The Big Sleep - New York Times
Human Hibernation! This is unbelievable.
The French seem to have mastered the art of laziness.
Human Hibernation! This is unbelievable.
The French seem to have mastered the art of laziness.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Friday, November 16, 2007
Monday, November 12, 2007
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
The Dawn of E2K in India - New York Times
The Dawn of E2K in India - New York Times: "So, mom, dad, tell your kids: if they’re looking for a good stable-growth career — green consultants, green designers, green builders are all going to be in huge demand. And if they can speak a little Hindi — all the better."
Sunday, September 09, 2007
Thursday, September 06, 2007
Monday, August 27, 2007
IndianExpress.com :: Karat’s boomerang
IndianExpress.com :: Karat’s boomerang
As part of a consistent effort over the last decade to improve relations with China, India has been willing to forget and forgive Beijing’s unpardonable transfer of nuclear weapon designs and missile production technologies to Pakistan.
Thanks to Karat’s adventurism, India’s long accumulated nuclear grievances against China are surging back to the surface. As mainstream India concludes China is out to block India’s impending nuclear liberation, it is Beijing that will incur the political costs.
With friends like Karat, China does not need enemies in India. If the Chinese establishment does its India sums again, it would quickly distance itself from the CPM and support the resumption of international nuclear cooperation with New Delhi. If it doesn’t, Beijing will risk stoking the fury of Indian nationalism and pushing New Delhi closer to Washington and Tokyo......................................
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
IndianExpress.com :: New world, if only China could sea
IndianExpress.com :: New world, if only China could sea
Very Interesting Article.......
Very Interesting Article.......
Friday, August 10, 2007
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Monday, August 06, 2007
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