B4U India

Now, a special ambulance for ships of the desert in Rajasthan

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:35:00 -0400

A voluntary organisation in Rajasthan has prepared a special ambulance to facilitate carrying camels seeking medical attention to nearby veterinary hospital.

This is perhaps for the first time that such arrangements have been done in Rajasthan help to shift the ship of the desert ‘Camel’ to hospitals when required.

The facility has been provided due to the efforts of Help In Suffering (HIS), the Jaipur-based voluntary organisation.

"We are providing this facility for the first time in India. With this, an ill camel can be easily carried away from the accident site…not many people are needed in doing it. A camel weighs around 700-800 kilograms, so it''s very difficult to load it. But we can easily load it on this ambulance. It saves the time and a camel can be provided treatment anytime. For the first time HIS has come up with this project of ambulance," said Pradeep Singhal, Coordinator of the Camel Project, HIS, Jaipur.

The ambulance will be a boon for camel owners in the isolated and interior regions of the desert State.

The specially built ambulance has significant features like twin hydraulic cranes, which safely hoist an ailing or injured camel and place it in the ambulance to be taken to the nearest veterinarian for further treatment.

Inside the ambulance, there are facilities like rendering first aid, padded accessories for the comfort of the ailing animal.

"This hydraulic camel ambulance is very good. It''s very easy to operate. We take this ambulance near camel. The platforms comes down and we accommodate camel on the platform…there are two types of gears in this special machine, one is operated with the key…and there is one handle also which can be moved to left and right, so with all these features we lift the camel and load it in the ambulance," said Arjun, the camel ambulance operator, HIS, Jaipur.

Since camel is a big animal, it was very difficult earlier to load and transport from one place to another, but this hi-tech vehicle smoothens all such hassles.

"Earlier, we used to take camels in Tata 407 and around 10-15 people were needed to lift up the camel. We used to face big problem. We used to tie the camel in the wagon and sometimes it got injured also. But now only two to three people easily lift it on the ambulance without any problem," said Rajendra, compounder, HIS.

The NGO has invested around two million rupees in developing this machine. The facility of shifting camel is provided free of cost to the camel owners.

Members of the NGO say that this vehicle would directly help the poor camel owners, as the chances of camels dying due to lack of treatment would be minimum now onwards. (ANI)

Canadian education fair woos Punjabi students

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:34:00 -0400

Educational institutions in Punjab are in the process of becoming truly global by providing students the option of studying abroad.

Over 1,000 students of Lovely Professional University in Jalandhar have come together to interact with the Canadian university representatives that include Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning and Thompson Rivers University.

The delegates highlight differences in teaching methodology adopted by the Canadian education system.

“As part of the Canadian education fair, Canadian education network is an organization that promotes education for Indian students in Canada. The advantage of coming directly to organisations such as this is that there is a lot more opportunity for students to know about colleges and universities and for colleges and universities to know more about the students,” said Lois Shannon, Executive of Thompson Rivers University, Canada.

India and Canada, through the University Grants Commission, are now pursuing measures to promote academic cooperation in fields beyond humanities and social sciences, to include institutional cooperation in fields such as natural sciences, medicine and engineering.

Compared to other Western countries, Canada has more to offer. “It is possible to work on campus in Canada. After studying for six months they can work off campus for 20 hours in a week. If a person studies under co-op program then they are able to work full time. When students complete at least two years and graduate from their four years degree program they can stay in Canada and work for three more years. This is not so in other countries of the world,” said Shannon.

With increasing availability of quality education in India, the trend of Indian students going abroad is witnessing a shift now.

However, in states like Punjab a majority of students still look forward to settling abroad. And this is what makes India the most-favored recruitment destination for a number of countries.

Maria Mathai, Director, Canadian Education Fair, says, “India is a priority market for most of the Canadian universities and colleges. The Government of Canada has identified four countries that are BRIC nations (Brazil, Russia, India and China).

“In the last three years there have been five-six delegations, which have come from Canada. This includes representatives of universities and colleges, ministers and presidents of institutes,” added Mathai.

In a rapidly globalizing world, the emphasis is more on mutual cooperation between universities. Indian institutions like the Lovely Professional University already has working relations with more than 10 foreign universities that helps in exchange of academic knowledge. This is of great help to students who look forward to joining a foreign campus. (ANI)

Kapil Dev’s ‘Kaptain''s Retreat’ wows food lovers

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:33:00 -0400

A sumptuous meal among cricketing memorabilia is quite an unforgettable experience. And if one has on board cricketing legend Kapil Dev, the event becomes doubly interesting. Kapil Dev''s boutique hotel in Chandigarh called `Kaptain''s Retreat'' that greets its visitors with multi-cuisine specialties has virtually turned into a museum with rare memorabilia.

Cricketing legend Kapil Dev is now a leading hotelier.

An all rounder who played his last one-day International against the West Indies in 1995, Kapil has received many accolades, but this is by far his finest achievement.

He ventured into the hotel and restaurant industry after winning the World Cup in 1983; ‘Kaptain''s Retreat’ is his gift to the beautiful city of Chandigarh.

His career in international cricket spanned 16 years and he led India to victory in the World Cup in 1983 and was named the Wisden International Cricketer of the year.

‘Kaptain''s Retreat’ is also a museum displaying his cricketing memorabilia, including photographs, souvenirs, mementos, bats and pads, adorning the wall.

Pritpal Singh, General Manager of Kaptain''s Retreat boutique hotel, said, “Name does count a lot and he has always been a leader when he was playing. He has created something here, which is a first in this region. So people come down to see that.”

“It''s good remembrance of Kapil Dev and quite nice that he has displayed everything related to his cricket career. The decor is excellent and the food is tasty,” said a visitor to ‘Kaptain''s Retreat’.

North Indians, who have a special love for spicy treats find the restaurant''s specialized variety of non-vegetarian dishes very attractive. `Murg Korma'', prepared by using spices and ingredients from Pakistan, is among the most popular dishes.

The display of Kapil''s treasured possessions and the palate tickling cuisines from China, Thailand, Pakistan and India makes every visit an unforgettable experience. In Chandigarh, those who desire to savor a lip smacking meal, Kaptain''s retreat is where they head for. (ANI)

Ludhiana beckons medical tourism

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:33:00 -0400

The burgeoning healthcare sector in India, with world-class facilities, including the state-of-the-art diagnostic equipments, has been attracting organizations specializing in medical tourism for some time now. And Punjab, with its excellent infrastructure and medical facilities, has huge potential to attract foreigners as well as non-resident Indian (NRI).

In fact, Punjab occupies a special place in India''s growing health care facilities, be it brain surgery, hip replacement and even rejuvenation by traditional Indian medicines.

The availability of Cytotron Therapy, the latest practice in the treatment of cancer, has made Ludhiana''s Sibia Medical Centre, the hub for cancer treatment.

Among patients visiting the institution is California based Daniel Pastal, who has brought his son Jack Pastal here for the treatment of brain tumor.

“I am happy and excited to be here. I am really looking forward to have some good results. I think there are lots of advantages here for getting treatments done. Sometimes it is better than USA. We are excited to have some good results from the miraculous technology of India,” said Daniel Pastal.

Liberalization and corporate entry in the healthcare sector has made health tourism in India grow manifold.

The medical tourism market in India estimated at 333 million US dollars in 2004 is projected to reach 2.2 billion US dollars by 2012.

The bulk of patients coming to India are from the SAARC region, Middle East, and Africa, and there is potential of getting patients from the West as well.

Routine tourists visiting India prefer to go for normal health check-ups.

Dr. Manuj Wadhwa, Consultant, Fortis Hospital, Chandigarh says, “Whether you want a surgery being done in western world or in India it is going to be the same. But the pricing is far more economical here. If I have to compare a knee replacement surgery in UK or USA in the private sector it will cost around 10- 15 lakhs, but in India it will cost only around 2 lakhs in A-category hospital with the same expertise of doctors and with same infrastructure.”

Even NRIs take advantage of the available medical facilities. In addition, they avoid long-waiting lists and the procedure is done quickly in India.

“Medical tourism is becoming popular in India. There are many reasons, for instance, we offer world-class treatment at an economical rate. Then there are certain treatment technologies that are only available in India. Medical tourism can be a multi-million-dollar business and a source of good foreign exchange,” said Dr. S S Sibia, Director, Sibia Medical Centre, Ludhiana.

Public health expenditure in the West is going through the roof and governments are finding it difficult to sustain the level of healthcare provided to all citizens. Hence, it is the right time for countries like India to take advantage of this fact and woo health tourists. And Punjab, which is home to a large number of NRIs, is well placed to utilize the opportunity. (ANI)

Kulbir Prem Singh, a successful real estate entrepreneur

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:32:00 -0400

Kulbir Prem Singh is a well-known name in the Real Estate world of America today. He is also appreciated for this endeavours to popularize cricket in the Baseball crazy nation.

Kulbir Prem Singh, despite experience in building houses, achieved tremendous success in real estate development.

“The banks, which were not in favour of giving loans earlier, have gradually developed a faith in me. Now, I have built such trust with banks in the U.S. that getting a loan in not a big deal. Now, I am just like any another American businessman for the banks,” Singh added.

Kulbir is also keen to take up development and social work at his hometown in India.

He is presently looking forward to the commencement of a joint project in car manufacturing and bike racing circuit in India.

“I am starting a joint project in developing car and bike racing circuit with an investment of some 112 million USD. There are also plans to invest in sports and education sector to prevent youth from taking to drugs,” said Kulbir.

Kulbir has also contributed to social causes in India.

“Till now, I have sponsored over 100 marriages of poor girls. They could not afford dowry, a social evil in our society. I want to do a lot more for Punjab,” Kulbir says. (ANI)

School children in Orissa make decorative items from waste material

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 10:30:00 -0400

To create awareness about a pollution-free environment, a school in Orissa’s Boudh town has initiated an innovative project which trains students to make useful items of waste materials.

Students at Malisahi School in Orissa’s Boudh town have been encouraged to contribute their creative best for curbing environmental pollution by making useful items out of non-degradable waste materials.

Be it making flowerpots from coconut shells, making a garland out of chocolate wrappers or making beakers from polythene waste, these students have been kept busy in their leisure time.

"We have brought these items from outside. We collect waste materials such as polythene and make use of them during our leisure hours with the help of our school Headmaster," said Susant Dehuri, a student of the Malisahi School in Boudh.

These children have been supported in their work by the school.

"After our school hours, we collect different waste materials like polythene, matchboxes, coconut shells. During our free hours in school, we sit down and try to create something from the material," said Alina Mohapatra, another student.

The children are also able to earn something for their family.

"Through this I want to make these students self-sufficient. By making decorative items from waste material these students can earn something for themselves and for their family and can help them become more creative," said Shivanarayan Das, the Head Master of Malisahi School.

The wide range of creative novelties made by the school students have been displayed in various exhibitions in Boudh town and other places in the District.

These young minds have set an example for the rest of the society.

Environmental pollution is a matter of prime national concern and the students of an ordinary school have contributed in controlling it. (ANI)

What does he really mean when he says ''I love you''

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 05:11:00 -0400

Love surely makes people go crazy. They might feel something but say something else - and their partners will hear something completely different. Now, a new guide is set to bridge the communication gap between the sexes.

The communication gap between the sexes has been an enigma for a long time, and now the guide by TV psychologist Dr Linda Papadopoulos, ''What Men Say, What Women Hear'' is set to bridge the ever-existing gap, reports The Sun.

In order to know what "manspeak" is all about, Dr Papadopoulos analysed some typical conversations between men and women and revealed what exactly goes on in a man''s head.

Conversation after a date:

He says: "I had a great time, should I call you?"

She thinks: He''s trying to get rid of me.

She says: "Yeah, sure. Thanks for tonight. See you soon."

He thinks: That''s not exactly enthusiastic. I''m not going to humiliate myself by pushing it.

According to Linda, a girl shouldn''t think negatively about the man when he is really being genuine. It''s not just a brush-off when a bloke asks to call you. Men do not have a pre-rehearsed set of words to say, so it''s wrong to prejudge their expectations. If you''re unsure if he''s interested, the best way is to ask him directly.

Conversation after meeting the parents:

She says: "You and your dad were having fun, weren''t you?"

She means: I wasn''t, though . . .

He says: "Yeah, it was great to see them."

She says: "Hmmm, sure."

He hears: I don''t like your family.

In Linda''s opinion, that''s what happens when a girlfriend feels left out by her man''s family. So, rather than being defensive, the issue should be dealt as a couple and the lady should make it a point that her comments about his family do not cross the line of accusation.

Conversation at time of emotional unavailability:

He says: (while watching a weepie film) "Are you OK?"

He means: Why are you crying?

She says: "Sure, it just reminded me of a sad time in my life."

He thinks: What''s this film got to do with your life? This is making me feel awkward. I don''t know how to deal with your emotions and I feel trapped . .

He says: Nothing.

His saying nothing means that he doesn''t know what to say, and he would be horrified if he realised he is probably distressing you further. While tears are a natural way for women to express emotion, men are solution focused and want the women to stop crying. They should know that when girls cry, all they want is comfort or reassurance.

Conversation on marriage:

He says: "I can''t wait for the day I walk you down the aisle."

He means: I love you.

She hears: Our relationship will only be truly committed when we are married. Nothing else is good enough.

She thinks: I love you but I''ve told you that I''m not interested in marriage.

Linda said that usually people perceive marriage as it was for their parents-happy or unhappy. So, a couple needs to sit together and talk about what marriage means to each of you in order to reach a compromise. Keep in mind that if it didn''t work out for your parents, it doesn''t mean that it won''t work for you as well. In case your partner has negative views on marriage, try to challenge their negative ideas with positives. (ANI)

John Travolta-style dancing is the best way to win woman''s heart!

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 05:10:00 -0400

John Travolta’s flamboyant dance style in ‘Saturday Night Fever’ is of the kind that is the most attractive to women, according to a new research.

To determine which dance moves are most likely to impress female onlookers, researchers studied the freestyle dancing techniques commonly deployed by hapless men in nightclubs.

They found that highly-co-ordinated and complex dance moves, such as the point-and-shake moves employed by Travolta''s character Tony Manero in the cult disco film, were deemed the most attractive while exaggerated ‘dad’ dancing, as demonstrated by David Brent in the television comedy series ‘The Office’, was the least attractive.

Another dancing style unlikely to impress a woman was ‘the shuffle’, where self-conscious males shift from foot to foot accompanied with the occasional uncomfortable hand-wring.

According to Dr Peter Lovatt, a psychologist of performance at Hertfordshire University, dancing in nightclubs was the modern human equivalent of courtship displays used by birds and other animals.

"It is all about how we communicate through dance. There is an evolutionary reason why we dance in a particular way – as Darwin suggested, dancing is a bit like a courtship ritual to catch the eye of a high-quality member of the opposite sex,” the Telegraph quoted him, as saying.

"I wanted to examine which features of the dances we see in nightclubs make men seem more masculine, dominant or attractive," he added.

For the study, Lovatt, who was a professional dancer before he went into academia, filmed 15 short video clips of himself performing different dance moves and blurred out his physical features so that only his movements were visible.

He showed the videos to 55 women and asked them to rate how masculine, dominant and attractive each dance move was.

He found that timid dancers who shuffle from foot to foot in small movements were deemed to rate lowest for all three characteristics, while large, uncoordinated movements were also deemed unattractive but were thought to be most dominant.

Highly-co-ordinated, complex movements that were of medium size were found to be the most attractive.

Lovatt said that he hoped his work would provide some tips for those who struggle on the dance floor, whether they are teenagers or older dancers. (ANI)

Pak law enforcement agencies still searching for missing Afghan diplomat

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 05:09:00 -0400

Amid unconfirmed reports about the recovery of the missing Afghan ambassador-designate Abdul Khaliq Farahi, Pakistani law enforcement agencies have said that they were still searching for him.

“We had heard that the top Afghan diplomat has been recovered but officially we have no information about his return and we are still searching different areas for him,” The News quoted a senior police official in Peshawar as saying.

He disclosed that a detailed report on the investigation carried out so far had been sent to NWFP Governor Owais Ahmed Ghani a couple of days ago.

According to the paper, there has been a continuous pressure on the Pakistan government from the international community to trace the missing envoy, who was abducted on September 22 by some unidentified armed men from Hayatabad Phase-III after shooting his driver Khalid dead.

A few days ago the media reported that the missing diplomat had been recovered. However, law-enforcement agencies are still looking every nook and corner to recover the diplomat. (ANI)

NWFP govt to create more jobs to prevent youths from joining Taliban

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 05:09:00 -0400

The NWFP government is planning to increase economic activity through offering more government jobs in the province in a bid to curb the wave of Talibanisation, the ruling party the ANP (Awami National Party) has said.

In a statement, ANP working committee member Gul Mina Bilal said that the Taliban were “misguiding unemployed youths, who were joining their ranks”.

However, the provision of employment opportunities would help end Talibanisation in the province, she said and added that it was the ANP government that adopted a clear policy to purge the province of militancy.

Gul said that the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) and other parties did not speak against those who were destroying the peace of the province.

She blamed the previous Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal (MMA) government for Talibanisation, saying “had the JI stopped the Taliban activities in various areas, the situation would have been different”.

The ANP leader further said that the provincial government had made all preparations for the establishment of free trade zones in Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, Haripur and the Mohmand Agency. (ANI)