Month: April 2014

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Varanasi aims to halt the Modi juggernaut

Academics and mediapersons are gearing up in different ways to try and stop Narendra Modi from being elected in Varanasi.
Humra Quraishiby Humra  Quraishi

Part 3 of the ‘Your Vote’ campaign for Lok Sabha 2014.

“Halt Narendra Modi! Save this country from destruction!” This seems to be a common refrain in Varanasi these days. Just two days ago, the Varanasi- based historian, Dr Mohammad Arif – he taught at the Benaras Hindu University and now heads the All India Secular Forum – told me that Varanasi-based activists and academics is to halt Modi.

He said, “A person like Narendra Modi, who is a permanent source of anxiety and insecurity for very large sections of our society, cannot and should not be allowed to lead India…his infamous role in the massacre of over 3,000 Muslims in his State in 2002 is being brushed aside and he is promoted as morally ‘fit enough’ to lead the nation.

“False statistical claims, full of half-truths, are being used to present Gujarat as Narendra Modia model that all of India should follow to attain high economic growth. The voices of reason critical of Modi within his own party are being ignored and even attacked to silence them…”

There are several who are heading towards Varanasi to take on Modi, as the latter tries his luck from the fabled place. Shifting base from Noida to Varanasi for this stretch is the editor of The Bismillah News, Ahmed Suhail Siddiqui. He claims he is determined to take on Modi as an independent candidate.

To quote Siddiqui, “In Varanasi, candidates of all the parties are fighting a ‘fixed’ battle against Modi, to help him win. I informed them that if these parties were serious of the dangers of Modi becoming the Prime Minister of India, then why did their top leaders like Sonia, Rahul, Priyanka, Mulayam Singh Yadav not ensure Modi’s defeat by contesting against him in Varanasi and Vadodara? Instead , these parties have put up weak candidates.”

He continued, “Kejriwal is helping Modi all over India. Out of 450-odd candidates put up by AAP all over India, some 45 minority people have been put up by AAP. But AAP has not put up minority candidates from seats traditionally having a minority influence. Why? Is this not the other side of the coin of the same policy by which minority-populated seats were reserved for SC/ST to deny minorities natural representation in democracy?”      

In Delhi, there are others who are showing the courage to stand up and openly protest. Ravi Singh, co-publisher of the Aleph Book Company, resigned this week in protest of Rupa’s (Aleph’s publishing partner) decision to publish the English translation of 67 poems of Narendra Modi. The volume is set to hit the market during the ongoing election season.

Humra Quraishi is a senior political journalist based in Gurgaon. ‘Your Vote’ is a column capturing the Lok Sabha 2014 fervour. If you have an interesting insight or trend to be featured here, write to editor@themetrognome.in with the subject line ‘Your vote’.

(Pictures courtesy www.indiatvnews.com)

Categories
Trends

Climate change impacts could increase risk of violent conflicts

A recently released IPCC report finds that climate change impacts may potentially trigger, increase rivalry among States over shared resources.
by TERI Feature Service

The second volume of the most comprehensive and up to date report on the state of knowledge on climate change was released late last month, establishing that the effects of climate change are already occurring on all continents and across the oceans, and that the severity of impacts will increase unless the rate and magnitude of climate change is brought under control.

The United Nations’ report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has found that countries at all levels of development lack preparedness for risks from a changing climate. The geographic scale of widespread impacts is concerning as they spread from tropics to the poles, from small islands to large continents, and from the wealthiest countries to the poorest. The impacts of climate change could make efforts to tackle poverty more difficult, trapping people in poverty, hunger and poor health.

The impact of climate change could increase risks of violent conflicts in the form of civil war, says Pachauri, by amplifying well-documented drivers of these conflicts such as poverty.

Potential impacts, as mentioned in the report

Save the EarthThe impacts of climatic change are not limited to natural systems such as water resources, oceans and ecosystems. Some impacts on human systems such as food production, agriculture, human health and peoples’ livelihoods have also been attributed to climate change. The report identifies vulnerable people, industries and ecosystems around the world and finds some impacts are expected to disproportionately affect poor people, as they have less infrastructural and adaptive capacity to cope with climate-related losses.

But the worst is yet to come. The IPCC report is compelling in terms of the impacts of climate change that are already occurring: “Many terrestrial, freshwater and marine species have shifted their geographic ranges, seasonal activities, migration patterns, abundances, and species interactions in response to ongoing climate change,” says the report. “Based on many studies covering a broad range of regions and crops, negative impacts of climate change on crop yields have been more common than positive impacts.”

“I hope these facts – for want of a better word – will jolt people into action,” said Dr RK Pachauri, Chairman of the IPCC, at the release of the report in Yokohama, Japan, recently.

New findings

Some studies till now had revealed a mix of impacts on food production, with some regions of the world benefiting from climate changes, while others were hit harder. But the IPCC report assesses with high confidence that the negative impacts of climate change on crop yields have been more common than positive ones. The impact of climate change could increase risks of violent conflicts in the form of civil war, says Pachauri, by amplifying well-documented drivers of these conflicts such as poverty. He said that nobody on this planet is going to be untouched by the impacts of climate change. “The world has all kinds of drivers of stress and drivers of conflict. With the climate change, these are likely to get exacerbated further,” said Pachauri.

The report, in fact, establishes a link between climate change impacts and increase in inter-State rivalry. “The impacts of climate change on the critical infrastructure and territorial integrity of many states are expected to influence national security policies.”

For example, land inundation due to sea-level rise poses risks to the territorial integrity of small-island States and States with extensive coastlines. “Some trans-boundary impacts of climate change, such as changes in sea ice, shared water resources, and pelagic fish stocks, have the potential to increase rivalry among States, but robust national and intergovernmental institutions can enhance cooperation and manage many of these rivalries,” the report says. The report found evidence of climate change in the thawing permafrost in the Arctic and in the destruction of coral reefs. It found many freshwater and marine species had shifted their geographical range due to climate change.

The report also projects that risks will get more severe if global greenhouse gas emissions are not mitigated. “Increased tree mortality and associated forest dieback is projected to occur in many regions over the 21st century, due to increased temperatures and drought. Forest dieback poses risks for carbon storage, biodiversity, wood production, water quality, amenity and economic activity.”

Moreover, IPCC concludes that people, societies, and ecosystems in poor and rich countries around the world are vulnerable and exposed to climate change, with different vulnerability and exposure in different places. “Impacts from recent climate-related extremes, such as heat waves, droughts, floods, cyclones, and wildfires reveal significant vulnerability and exposure of some ecosystems and many human systems to current climate variability.”

(Pictures courtesy

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Uncategorized

Why you should vote…even if your choice is NOTA

Lok Sabha elections are just around the corner for Mumbai. Here’s why exercising your vote would be a good idea.
Pooja Birwatkarby Dr Pooja Birwatkar

Part 3 of the ‘Your Vote’ campaign for Lok Sabha 2014.

After several months of hoopla, the elections have finally arrived. It’s the time of the year when the common man suddenly assumes huge significance and becomes the focal point of political parties’ attention. Your vote counts and that makes you wanted by all – so what if these same ‘all’ neglected you and your voice for years? These unheard voices and pleas of the common man having fallen so far on deaf ears will suddenly now be heard.

Sometimes, this whole scenario makes us feel so betrayed by the political system that we decide to take our revenge by not voting. One feels, “Why should I vote now, after all, where was I all these years?” Yes, you are right in feeling so, but at the same time, this is not the way to ‘penalise’ the system. This way of punishing the system is counter-effective, as in the end, we stand out to be losers, too.

The serious tone at the polling station makes you realise how the voting process is not a joke, and how valued your contribution to it is. As one goes behind the box to use the electronic voting machine, you are free in that moment to discard all the opinions and judgements passed on to you, all the promises made by political parties. It is you who will decide, at that moment, which button to press.

I have pledged this time that I will vote. Whatever be my decision – to choose a party or to opt for NOTA (None Of The Above) – I will go and cast my vote. I have a small son, for whom my dream is that he should be a responsible Indian citizen, and this is my duty as a parent. I want to show my son that I follow my civic duties and take my citizenship seriously. Hence, I will make sure that on Election Day, I go and perform my duty with utmost sincerity.

For those who are still not convinced, there are some not-so-serious reasons to go out and vote as well. You can show off the little blue dot on your fingernail and boast about howNOTA option you are a true Indian. Trust me, the moment the indelible ink is put on your finger, you feel the liberation that comes from having made a choice. The whole experience of going to the polling station is unique. Standing in line as you wait for your turn, you witness a whole range of activity. The serious tone at the polling station makes you realise how the voting process is not a joke, and how valued your contribution to it is. As one goes behind the box to use the electronic voting machine, you are free in that moment to discard all the opinions and judgements passed on to you, all the promises made by political parties. It is you who will decide, at that moment, which button to press. You are in your own bubble – you, the partition cordoning off the EVM from others’ eyes, and your decision to cast your vote. It feels like you are looking at a treasure chest, and the key is known only to you.

Whether you want to experience the magic of voting or not, do consider this: whether you vote or not, someone is going to win and capture the seat. So why not do your calculations and help the right people win? The anxiety and happiness to see someone you voted for winning, is a very different experience. You feel like you actually made a difference. Of course, maybe one would still lament and blame the elected ones later, but you would know you chose them and that changes your approach to your own criticism. Besides, what stops you from reminding your elected representative why you elected him or her in the first place?

Sure, April 24 is a holiday for voting and we like holidays, but this is a holiday with a purpose. Go early and cast your vote – it hardly takes any time – and you can have the rest of the day to yourself.  

‘Kaun vote kare? Sab ek se hain…I like no one.” Don’t say this, please. Go vote. Believe me, you will like the experience.

Dr Pooja Birwatkar is currently pursuing post doctoral research and working in the area of science education. ‘Your Vote’ is a column capturing the Lok Sabha 2014 fervour in Mumbai. If you want to be featured here, write to editor@themetrognome.in with the subject line ‘Your vote’.

(Pictures courtesy india.blogs.nytimes.com, www.tntmagazine.in. Images are used for representational purpose only)

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Watch

Film screening: ‘Pitruroon’ at NCPA

The critically-acclaimed Marathi film marked actor Tanuja’s comeback to the silver screen after three decades; is directed by Nitish Bharadwaj.
by The Editors | editor@themetrognome.in

We all love a good mystery, and if that mystery is portrayed on celluloid by able actors, it’s a good combination to watch out for.

Today, the National Centre for Performing Arts’s (NCPA) Little Theatre presents critically-acclaimed Marathi film Pitruroon. The film stars renowned Marathi actor Sachin Khedekar in a double role, and marks the much-feted comeback to cinema of yesteryear actor Tanuja, after nearly three decades of her last film.

Pitruroon is based on a short story by Sudha Murthy. Written in Kannada, the story describes the life of Venkatesh Kulkarni (played by Khedekar) who has recently lost his father and is keen to fulfil his father’s last wishes. In doing so, he travels to Konkan and finds his lookalike and namesake, and also befriends the latter’s mother, Bhagirathi (played by Tanuja). As he hears about the other Venkatesh and his life, he begins to wonder if the two men have more in common than just looks and a name.

The film was acclaimed for its stellar performances by its lead actors, and also marked the directorial debut of actor Nitish Bharadwaj, who we last remember as Lord Krishna in BR Chopra’s television adaptation of Mahabharat.

Admission for the screening is on a first-come-first-served basis. The film begins at 6.30 pm. 

(Picture courtesy www.fridayfirstshow.com)

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Uncategorized

If they can vote, what stops you?

Girish and Eesha Gogia are paralysed, but have not once missed voting. What’s your excuse for not casting your vote?
by Vrushali Lad | @vrushalil on Twitter

Part 1 of the ‘Your Vote’ election series

A 1999 holiday in Goa, meant to usher in the Millenium with friends and with each other, turned into a nightmare for Girish and Eesha Gogia, residents of Lokhandwala Complex, Mumbai. “Just three months prior to our vacation, Eesha had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis,” Girish remembers. “I decided to bring in the New Year with her in Goa, along with a few friends.”

It was a perfect holiday, and Girish indulged his adventurous side with deep sea diving. “I was always a diving enthusiast. One morning, as usual, I decided to dive from a cliff. I had done it several times before,” Girish says, before proceeding to explain in a matter-of-fact way, the incident that was to change his life forever. “But I miscalculated my dive that day. I landed wrongly, on my back. I was instantly paralysed.”

He could not even flail his limbs in the water, and he nearly drowned before he lost consciousness. “When I came to, I was lying down on a beach, and there were people around me. Somebody said a foreign tourist saved my life. I was immediately shifted to a local hospital,” Girish says. Two days later, on December 31, he was shifted to Mumbai’s Hinduja Hospital, which informed his hapless parents that their 29-year-old son was now a quadriplegic, and that he would live like a vegetable from then on. “For two weeks, I was shattered by the news. Imagine living a life where you can’t do a thing for yourself…then I said, “Enough!” and decided to fight back,” he smiles.

Cut to today…

Girish is now 44 years old, and a renowned motivational speaker, much in demand all over the country. “But the initial years were very tough,” he remembers. “Till my wife became totally immobile herself, she would attend to me. Then she was also confined to a wheelchair. However, despite everything, I kept my thriving interior design business going – I even executed 15 major projects after my accident,” he says.

“The doctors had given me just a year to live, because quadriplegics don’t live long. However, I fought back by dint of willpower. When my body refused to work, my mind took over. Today, I can say that not only did I learn to unleash the power of my mind, but I am glad that I am teaching others to do the same,” Girish explains. Four years ago, he wrapped up his business. “I realised that it was not enough for me to stay alive and continue working – I wanted to help others realise how much potential they had, what they could achieve if they just let their will power take over…and so I became a motivational speaker full time.”

His election campaign

Girish’s remarkable fightback against all odds – all he can do is speak and slightly move his right arm – is, he hopes, inspirational enough for able-bodied persons and more importantly, others like him, to take hope and stop making excuses for themselves. “My wife is 70 per cent paralysed, I am 90 per cent paralysed. We are confined to wheelchairs, and we can’t do a thing without our caregivers. But we have never missed voting. I cannot understand the attitude of people who refuse to step out of their homes to cast their vote.

“They say things like ‘I am just one drop in the ocean, my one vote doesn’t make a difference,’ or ‘So what if I don’t vote? All politicians are chors‘. The voting percentage in Mumbai in the last election was a little over 40 per cent. This is shameful for such a big city like ours. People have to understand that voting is their duty. If my wife and I, against all odds, can still make it to the polling station, what is the justification for able-bodied people to skip voting?” he asks.

To raise awareness about the issue, Girish is going all out on social media – he types on a touchpad using a knuckle on his right hand – and contacting members of the press and prominent citizens to raise a call against voter apathy. “All it takes is the knowledge that each of us owes it to the nation to elect a Government that will work for its betterment. Do your research, select the best candidate, vote for him or her. But most importantly, participate in this great process of change for our country,” he exhorts.

Girish can be contacted on his Facebook page and on Twitter @girishpositive.

‘Your Vote’ is a column capturing the Lok Sabha 2014 fervour in Mumbai. If you want to be featured here, write to editor@themetrognome.in with the subject line ‘Your vote’.

(Pictures courtesy Girish Gogia)

Categories
Beauty

5 must-try organic skin care tips

More people are using organic skincare products today – these five simple tips will help you make an informed choice.

Of late, there has been an increasing trend to use organic beauty products. Have you ever stopped to think why people are opting for them? People today are more aware of the chemicals and toxins that are present in most of the beauty products available in the market. They are looking for products made of pure and natural extracts, free from harsh chemicals. Choosing organic products is simple, and we’ve listed five tips why you should use them and why they are good for your skin.

1.Always look for organic products, because: We know the market is flooded with a plethora of organic beauty and skin care products. However, there are some things that you need to keep in mind when you are choosing these products for yourself. Look for an accreditation or an organic seal to ensure it is authentic and natural.

2.Keep your beauty regime simple. Understand that all your skin needs is a little cleansing, moisturising and toning. Take the pledge to stick to the basics and follow a skin care routine that is simple and effective. Ensure that you buy a natural pH balanced face cleanser that is ultra-gentle and cleanses your skin without stripping the natural oils of the skin.

organic products3.Insist on ‘no fragrance’. Do you know that products that have strong fragrances can include  phthalates – a chemical that adds artificial fragrance? This chemical has the potential to trigger an allergic reaction that could cause damage to your kidneys, reproductive system, and your lungs. Is the fragrance worth the risk? Instead, choose organic moisturisers, as fragrant moisturisers can cause harm to you and your skin.  

4.Petroleum products are a BIG no-no. Petroleum is a product that is known to clog the pores of your skin; this obstructs the skin’s ability to release all the toxins and waste. Opt for an organic lip balm or night cream instead, which are pure and also help to keep your skin smooth and soft.

5.Eat healthy for a healthy skin. The foundation for healthy skin is nothing but the food you consume. You need to focus on following a nutritious diet, drinking plenty of water and exercising on a regular basis to look your best at all times. 

(Pictures courtesy health.howstuffworks.com, bloomorganics.com)

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