Thursday, December 29, 2011
Public Statement of Personal Adhesion to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption
I the undersigned, am concerned about the seriousness of the problems and threats posed by corruption to the stability and security of my society, daily undermining the institutions and values of democracy, ethical values and justice, while also compromising the perception of the rule of law in my Country;
I am also concerned about the implications of the ties, which we all know to exist, between corruption and other forms of crime; particularly with organized crime and money laundering;
Moreover, I am concerned about the cases of corruption that have multiplied and penetrated many sectors of my society, consuming a substantial proportion of public resources, and resulting in the growing indignation of society, in direct threat to the political stability and the sustainable development of my country;
I am convinced that impunity for cases of illicit acquisition of personal wealth can be particularly damaging to the credibility of democratic institutions and to the national economic order;
It is a fact that corruption is no longer considered a local problem; it is accepted to be a multidisciplinary human phenomenon that affects all societies and economies, imposing the urgent need of creating a large network of international cooperation formed by individuals, associations, organizations, and governments, willing to prevent it and fight against it every day;
I have decided to collaborate with all those who strive for the establishment of official mechanisms and the enactment of laws that can prevent, detect, and deter corruption in a more effective manner; along with internal money laundering, andthe international transfers of illicitly acquired assets. I am also in favor of national and international summary proceedings for the seizing of such assets to recover these diverted funds;
I am aware of the fact that local legislation, as well as international laws, impose to the Government of my Country an obligation to trigger actions for the prevention and eradication of corruption in all of its departments, which, to be successful, must count on the support and direct participation of individuals and groups outside the public sector, such as civil society, non-governmental organizations and community-based organizations;
I am also aware of the principles of proper management of public affairs and public assets, of fairness, responsibility and equality before the law, as well as the need to safeguard and strengthen the integrity of democratic institutions, thereby fostering, in my Country, a culture of rejection to corruption;
I hereby agree to personally accept, endorse and support the decision of my country of joining the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, thereby forcing all subsequent governments to adopt, within the limits of their possibilities, all efforts required to promote the active participation of the entire society in preventing and combating corruption;
But considering that, regrettably, none of the governments that followed the decision of my country to join UNCAC, strictly complied with their obligation to include and integrate the community in the fight against corruption and have not performed their duty, in accordance with the same instrument, of raising public awareness of the causes of and the severity of corruption, having thus failed to alert everyone to the threat that it poses;
And so, we must consider this lack of integration of society as the main cause of the failure we have experienced in combating corruption in my Country since 1995. It is imperative to demand from the federal authorities from Government and from the Legislative Power the immediately production of a triggering information campaign throughout the country, aiming at fostering, in a simple and transparent fashion, collective awareness of the seriousness of corruption in my Country, through all means of mass communication, conferences and workshops, school programs, universities, unions, associations, etc.;
Thus, by joining UNCAC my country has accepted – before its people and before other nations – to promote social participation in decision making with regard to combating corruption. That is why we must impose to the government of my country the immediate establishment of a truly participatory and democratic management system to fight corruption, since this is globally accepted as one of the key weapons in this fight;
Considering also that this integration between government and society can only occur as a result of a transparent process of national understanding, backed up by media coverage and collaboration, in which voting mechanisms of direct democracy can be used in cases that do not reach a consensus, or even to confirm the existence of a prevailing consensus, this is the only way that citizens have to have an active voice in decision making, without political demagogy, thereby allowing them to exercise popular sovereignty, through plebiscites and referenda ;
Taking into account the fact that, above all, the only known and proven formula for a legal act to gain commitment and support from the entire society for its satisfactory implementation, is to publicly discuss its format, and, after its approval by the Legislative Power, submit it to society for approval through a citizen referendum;
And, finally, considering that to gain indispensable popular consent and support, the proposed measures must establish no time limits to investigatecorruption crimes, thereby increasing the efficiency of investigative mechanisms, while also restricting the freedom and privileges of those involved in such scams, seizing their assets, freezing their accounts, and applying more severe penalties – i.e.: treating corruption as a heinous crime;
These are the reasons I have personally joined UNCAC, for I realize that, beyond the merits in the fight against corruption, the Convention also provides me with an opportunity to help with a breakthrough for democracy in my country by means of establishing, as a legal requirement, the mandatory direct participation of the entire society in the formulation of public policies to combat corruption, as guarantee of further popular support in the implementation and execution of such policies, which should be valid also for all other acting fronts of the Nation.
Thus, considering the power of the decision of the majority as the greatest of all democratic powers – and axiomatic principle and prerequisite of democracy, expressed in many constitutions as “popular sovereignty”, or source from which all government ramifications emanate – I hereby DECLARE, to whom it may concern, that I am fully convinced of the need for immediate integration of the public in all stages of the fight against corruption, starting with the development of a shared public policy, from the drawing up of laws and the enforcement of actions to be taken to the subsequent monitoring of the implementation of such measures, whose success will only be guaranteed if ultimately approved by society, thereby legitimizing a national pact against corruption.
In accordance to the above-stated facts and fully exercising my rights as a citizen, I have constantly demanded from the government and the Congress in my country the immediate fulfillment of their institutional obligations, under penalty of prevarication, to fulfill the promise of immediately including my society in the fight against corruption and, to the best of their abilities, sponsor and conduct public education programs in schools and universities, and symposia and seminars in associations and unions. In short; to carry out all required activities of public information to foster in society a collective sense of intolerance toward corruption.
IN FULL CONFORMITY with this public statement, I hereby endorse it with my personal commitment to the UN Convention Against Corruption, in order to fight for the timely and full implementation of its regulations, especially with regard to the implementation of Article 13 of this Convention, with certainty that I am contributing to the peace and the progress of my Country.
http://www.qualicidade.org.br/adesao/public-statement-of-personal-adhesion-to-the-united-nations-convention-against-corruption/
UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION AGAINST CORRUPTION
Preamble
The States Parties to this Convention,
Concerned about the seriousness of problems and threats posed by corruption to the stability and security of societies, undermining the institutions and values of democracy, ethical values and justice and jeopardizing sustainable development and the rule of law, Concerned also about the links between corruption and other forms of crime, in particular organized crime and economic crime, including money laundering,
Concerned further about cases of corruption that involve vast quantities of assets, which may constitute a substantial proportion of the resources of States, and that threaten the political stability and sustainable development of those States,
Convinced that corruption is no longer a local matter but a transnational phenomenon that affects all societies and economies, making international cooperation to prevent and control it essential,
Convinced also that a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach is required to prevent and combat corruption effectively,
Convinced further that the availability of technical assistance can play an important role in enhancing the ability of States, including by strengthening capacity and by institution-building, to prevent and combat corruption effectively,
Convinced that the illicit acquisition of personal wealth can be particularly damaging to democratic institutions, national economies and the rule of law,
Determined to prevent, detect and deter in a more effective manner international transfers of illicitly acquired assets and to strengthen international cooperation in asset recovery, Acknowledging the fundamental principles of due process of law in criminal proceedings and in civil or administrative proceedings to adjudicate property rights....
I am also concerned about the implications of the ties, which we all know to exist, between corruption and other forms of crime; particularly with organized crime and money laundering;
Moreover, I am concerned about the cases of corruption that have multiplied and penetrated many sectors of my society, consuming a substantial proportion of public resources, and resulting in the growing indignation of society, in direct threat to the political stability and the sustainable development of my country;
I am convinced that impunity for cases of illicit acquisition of personal wealth can be particularly damaging to the credibility of democratic institutions and to the national economic order;
It is a fact that corruption is no longer considered a local problem; it is accepted to be a multidisciplinary human phenomenon that affects all societies and economies, imposing the urgent need of creating a large network of international cooperation formed by individuals, associations, organizations, and governments, willing to prevent it and fight against it every day;
I have decided to collaborate with all those who strive for the establishment of official mechanisms and the enactment of laws that can prevent, detect, and deter corruption in a more effective manner; along with internal money laundering, andthe international transfers of illicitly acquired assets. I am also in favor of national and international summary proceedings for the seizing of such assets to recover these diverted funds;
I am aware of the fact that local legislation, as well as international laws, impose to the Government of my Country an obligation to trigger actions for the prevention and eradication of corruption in all of its departments, which, to be successful, must count on the support and direct participation of individuals and groups outside the public sector, such as civil society, non-governmental organizations and community-based organizations;
I am also aware of the principles of proper management of public affairs and public assets, of fairness, responsibility and equality before the law, as well as the need to safeguard and strengthen the integrity of democratic institutions, thereby fostering, in my Country, a culture of rejection to corruption;
I hereby agree to personally accept, endorse and support the decision of my country of joining the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, thereby forcing all subsequent governments to adopt, within the limits of their possibilities, all efforts required to promote the active participation of the entire society in preventing and combating corruption;
But considering that, regrettably, none of the governments that followed the decision of my country to join UNCAC, strictly complied with their obligation to include and integrate the community in the fight against corruption and have not performed their duty, in accordance with the same instrument, of raising public awareness of the causes of and the severity of corruption, having thus failed to alert everyone to the threat that it poses;
And so, we must consider this lack of integration of society as the main cause of the failure we have experienced in combating corruption in my Country since 1995. It is imperative to demand from the federal authorities from Government and from the Legislative Power the immediately production of a triggering information campaign throughout the country, aiming at fostering, in a simple and transparent fashion, collective awareness of the seriousness of corruption in my Country, through all means of mass communication, conferences and workshops, school programs, universities, unions, associations, etc.;
Thus, by joining UNCAC my country has accepted – before its people and before other nations – to promote social participation in decision making with regard to combating corruption. That is why we must impose to the government of my country the immediate establishment of a truly participatory and democratic management system to fight corruption, since this is globally accepted as one of the key weapons in this fight;
Considering also that this integration between government and society can only occur as a result of a transparent process of national understanding, backed up by media coverage and collaboration, in which voting mechanisms of direct democracy can be used in cases that do not reach a consensus, or even to confirm the existence of a prevailing consensus, this is the only way that citizens have to have an active voice in decision making, without political demagogy, thereby allowing them to exercise popular sovereignty, through plebiscites and referenda ;
Taking into account the fact that, above all, the only known and proven formula for a legal act to gain commitment and support from the entire society for its satisfactory implementation, is to publicly discuss its format, and, after its approval by the Legislative Power, submit it to society for approval through a citizen referendum;
And, finally, considering that to gain indispensable popular consent and support, the proposed measures must establish no time limits to investigatecorruption crimes, thereby increasing the efficiency of investigative mechanisms, while also restricting the freedom and privileges of those involved in such scams, seizing their assets, freezing their accounts, and applying more severe penalties – i.e.: treating corruption as a heinous crime;
These are the reasons I have personally joined UNCAC, for I realize that, beyond the merits in the fight against corruption, the Convention also provides me with an opportunity to help with a breakthrough for democracy in my country by means of establishing, as a legal requirement, the mandatory direct participation of the entire society in the formulation of public policies to combat corruption, as guarantee of further popular support in the implementation and execution of such policies, which should be valid also for all other acting fronts of the Nation.
Thus, considering the power of the decision of the majority as the greatest of all democratic powers – and axiomatic principle and prerequisite of democracy, expressed in many constitutions as “popular sovereignty”, or source from which all government ramifications emanate – I hereby DECLARE, to whom it may concern, that I am fully convinced of the need for immediate integration of the public in all stages of the fight against corruption, starting with the development of a shared public policy, from the drawing up of laws and the enforcement of actions to be taken to the subsequent monitoring of the implementation of such measures, whose success will only be guaranteed if ultimately approved by society, thereby legitimizing a national pact against corruption.
In accordance to the above-stated facts and fully exercising my rights as a citizen, I have constantly demanded from the government and the Congress in my country the immediate fulfillment of their institutional obligations, under penalty of prevarication, to fulfill the promise of immediately including my society in the fight against corruption and, to the best of their abilities, sponsor and conduct public education programs in schools and universities, and symposia and seminars in associations and unions. In short; to carry out all required activities of public information to foster in society a collective sense of intolerance toward corruption.
IN FULL CONFORMITY with this public statement, I hereby endorse it with my personal commitment to the UN Convention Against Corruption, in order to fight for the timely and full implementation of its regulations, especially with regard to the implementation of Article 13 of this Convention, with certainty that I am contributing to the peace and the progress of my Country.
http://www.qualicidade.org.br/adesao/public-statement-of-personal-adhesion-to-the-united-nations-convention-against-corruption/
UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION AGAINST CORRUPTION
Preamble
The States Parties to this Convention,
Concerned about the seriousness of problems and threats posed by corruption to the stability and security of societies, undermining the institutions and values of democracy, ethical values and justice and jeopardizing sustainable development and the rule of law, Concerned also about the links between corruption and other forms of crime, in particular organized crime and economic crime, including money laundering,
Concerned further about cases of corruption that involve vast quantities of assets, which may constitute a substantial proportion of the resources of States, and that threaten the political stability and sustainable development of those States,
Convinced that corruption is no longer a local matter but a transnational phenomenon that affects all societies and economies, making international cooperation to prevent and control it essential,
Convinced also that a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach is required to prevent and combat corruption effectively,
Convinced further that the availability of technical assistance can play an important role in enhancing the ability of States, including by strengthening capacity and by institution-building, to prevent and combat corruption effectively,
Convinced that the illicit acquisition of personal wealth can be particularly damaging to democratic institutions, national economies and the rule of law,
Determined to prevent, detect and deter in a more effective manner international transfers of illicitly acquired assets and to strengthen international cooperation in asset recovery, Acknowledging the fundamental principles of due process of law in criminal proceedings and in civil or administrative proceedings to adjudicate property rights....
Labels: anti-corruption, Public Statement of Personal Adhesion, UNCAC
Sunday, October 09, 2011
Anti-bribery integrity pledge
Anti-bribery integrity pledge
Recognising that integrity is fundamental, I as a committed citizen, will strive to serve my country and the world and its people with respect, dignity and integrity, and consistent with the values and principles of the Constitution.
I commit myself to set an example through ethical conduct for the furtherance of integrity and good governance and to report all corruption and other forms of unethical practice that I am aware of.
I will not give or take bribe or support bribery in any form. I will not accept or offer any advantage, gifts or benefits that might be seen to prejudice my position or lead to conflicts of interest.
I am prepared to explain honestly and be accountable for my actions when dealing with all spheres of society. Therefore, my actions will be transparent. I have declared my assets and assets of my immediate family in the public domain.
I will strive for high standards of service and ethical behaviour that are conducive to the development of the economy and the eradication of poverty.
I will promote these values in those around me. Through the above actions I hope to promote the welfare of all people.
This is my voluntary pledge to the people of my country and the world.
Signature:
Name:
Address:
Place:
Date:
Witnessed by:
Signature:
Name:
Address:
Place:
Date:
Idea borrowed from NACF.
Recognising that integrity is fundamental, I as a committed citizen, will strive to serve my country and the world and its people with respect, dignity and integrity, and consistent with the values and principles of the Constitution.
I commit myself to set an example through ethical conduct for the furtherance of integrity and good governance and to report all corruption and other forms of unethical practice that I am aware of.
I will not give or take bribe or support bribery in any form. I will not accept or offer any advantage, gifts or benefits that might be seen to prejudice my position or lead to conflicts of interest.
I am prepared to explain honestly and be accountable for my actions when dealing with all spheres of society. Therefore, my actions will be transparent. I have declared my assets and assets of my immediate family in the public domain.
I will strive for high standards of service and ethical behaviour that are conducive to the development of the economy and the eradication of poverty.
I will promote these values in those around me. Through the above actions I hope to promote the welfare of all people.
This is my voluntary pledge to the people of my country and the world.
Signature:
Name:
Address:
Place:
Date:
Witnessed by:
Signature:
Name:
Address:
Place:
Date:
Idea borrowed from NACF.
Labels: accountability, anti-bribery, anti-corruption, ethical behaviour, integrity, Poverty Alleviation, transparency
Sunday, July 31, 2011
How to fight poverty
In my opinion, poverty is invariably self perpetuating. It breeds where the environment is conducive for its existence and growth. It survives and grows with all those individuals, families and communities who do not take express interest to shake off poverty and come out of poverty. It makes people feel comfortable just to remain in it and complain about it and living it out rather than doing something to drive it away.
One sure way to eradicate poverty would be to create a level playing field and opportunities for all irrespective of any categorization. This can be achieved by ensuring equitable distribution of resources between the haves and have-nots. To achieve this there must be a rigorous resource mapping - supply and demand of various resources. There must be contribution from all towards proper harnessing of resources and prevent abuse of resources. Unique identification and tracking of all resource availability, utilization, demand would help in resource gap identification. Then ways to bridge the gap can be evolved.
The right tools to track online and on real time basis such demand and supply bottom up from the local to the global level through an e-Network using a model of spokes and hub can ensure every entity and resource is mapped. This alone can aid in definitive action rather than just eulogizing about poverty and not taking critical action.
One sure way to eradicate poverty would be to create a level playing field and opportunities for all irrespective of any categorization. This can be achieved by ensuring equitable distribution of resources between the haves and have-nots. To achieve this there must be a rigorous resource mapping - supply and demand of various resources. There must be contribution from all towards proper harnessing of resources and prevent abuse of resources. Unique identification and tracking of all resource availability, utilization, demand would help in resource gap identification. Then ways to bridge the gap can be evolved.
The right tools to track online and on real time basis such demand and supply bottom up from the local to the global level through an e-Network using a model of spokes and hub can ensure every entity and resource is mapped. This alone can aid in definitive action rather than just eulogizing about poverty and not taking critical action.
Labels: base of the pyramid, bottom-up governance, MDG, Poverty Alleviation, transparency
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
BJP on election reforms
It is heartening to note, a political party of the stature of BJP has come forward to set up a high-level panel on election reforms to study comprehensively the election related issues to help the party effectively formulate its stand on all subjects, including the effect of black money on the elections, criminalisation of politics, efficacy of electronic voting machines and reservation for women.
The panel is expected to deliberate on issues like the delimitation of constituencies in terms of socio-economic factors and geography so that the party could take a practically feasible and politically correct stand on contentious issues confronting the biggest democracy of the world.
The announcement assumes significance at a time when the BJP has taken a tough stand on corruption in mega scams like 2G Spectrum allocation, Commonwealth Games and its insistence of bringing back to country the money deposited in foreign banks by Indians outside the shores.
The panel would also study all reports available in the public domain, including the Administrative Reforms Commission, and interact with the Ministries concerned in the Government and the Election Commission of India. It will also get inputs from the state units, experts and interested public.
The citizens of India congratulate BJP and will support them in this initiative. It is the sincere hope of the citizens that BJP will make the study public and transparent for all citizens to participate with their views without fear or favour.
Nitin Gadkari sets up high-level panel on election reforms
New Delhi, Feb 15 : The BJP today set up a high-level committee on Election Reforms to study comprehensively the election related issues to help the party effectively formulate its stand on all subjects, including the effect of black money on the elections, criminalisation of politics, efficacy of electronic voting machines and reservation for women.
The Committee constituted by BJP President Nitin Gadkari will work under the guidance of top party leaders, including BJP Parliamentary Party Chairman L K Advani, and will have party vice-president Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi as its Convenor. The panel will also deliberate on issues like the delimitation of constituencies in terms of socio-economic factors and geography so that the party could take a practically feasible and politically correct stand on contentious issues confronting the biggest democracy of the world.
The announcement assumes significance at a time when the BJP has taken a tough stand on corruption in mega scams like 2G Spectrum allocation, Commonwealth Games and its insistence of bringing back to country the money deposited in foreign banks by Indians outside the shores.
The panel would also study all reports available in the public domain, including the Administrative Reforms Commission, and interact with the Ministries concerned in the Government and the Election Commission of India. It will also get inputs from the state units, experts and interested public.
Other members of the panel include BJP General Secretary Thawar Chand Gehlot, former MPs Kirit Somaiya and Banwarilal Purohit, noted psephologist G V L Narasimha Rao, former UP BJP Chief Ramapati Ram Tripathi, activist lawyer Satpal Jain and former bureaucrat Ramakrishna.
--UNI
http://www.newkerala.com/news/world/fullnews-147817.html
The panel is expected to deliberate on issues like the delimitation of constituencies in terms of socio-economic factors and geography so that the party could take a practically feasible and politically correct stand on contentious issues confronting the biggest democracy of the world.
The announcement assumes significance at a time when the BJP has taken a tough stand on corruption in mega scams like 2G Spectrum allocation, Commonwealth Games and its insistence of bringing back to country the money deposited in foreign banks by Indians outside the shores.
The panel would also study all reports available in the public domain, including the Administrative Reforms Commission, and interact with the Ministries concerned in the Government and the Election Commission of India. It will also get inputs from the state units, experts and interested public.
The citizens of India congratulate BJP and will support them in this initiative. It is the sincere hope of the citizens that BJP will make the study public and transparent for all citizens to participate with their views without fear or favour.
Nitin Gadkari sets up high-level panel on election reforms
New Delhi, Feb 15 : The BJP today set up a high-level committee on Election Reforms to study comprehensively the election related issues to help the party effectively formulate its stand on all subjects, including the effect of black money on the elections, criminalisation of politics, efficacy of electronic voting machines and reservation for women.
The Committee constituted by BJP President Nitin Gadkari will work under the guidance of top party leaders, including BJP Parliamentary Party Chairman L K Advani, and will have party vice-president Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi as its Convenor. The panel will also deliberate on issues like the delimitation of constituencies in terms of socio-economic factors and geography so that the party could take a practically feasible and politically correct stand on contentious issues confronting the biggest democracy of the world.
The announcement assumes significance at a time when the BJP has taken a tough stand on corruption in mega scams like 2G Spectrum allocation, Commonwealth Games and its insistence of bringing back to country the money deposited in foreign banks by Indians outside the shores.
The panel would also study all reports available in the public domain, including the Administrative Reforms Commission, and interact with the Ministries concerned in the Government and the Election Commission of India. It will also get inputs from the state units, experts and interested public.
Other members of the panel include BJP General Secretary Thawar Chand Gehlot, former MPs Kirit Somaiya and Banwarilal Purohit, noted psephologist G V L Narasimha Rao, former UP BJP Chief Ramapati Ram Tripathi, activist lawyer Satpal Jain and former bureaucrat Ramakrishna.
--UNI
http://www.newkerala.com/news/world/fullnews-147817.html
Labels: Action Against Corruption, black money, criminalisation of politics, election reforms, electronic voting machines, EVM, mega scams, reservation for women
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Disrupting Corruption: People Power to gain Accountability
On January 27, 2011 the International Center on Nonviolent Conflict's webinar series will feature a session on people power to curb corruption and gain accountability.
Link to webinar page: http://tinyurl.com/5soydx9
Disrupting Corruption: People Power to Gain Accountability
Link to webinar page: http://tinyurl.com/5soydx9
Disrupting Corruption: People Power to Gain Accountability
Labels: accountability, Action Against Corruption, nonviolent conflict, transparency
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
62 Republic day of India
On the occasion of 62 Republic Day of India, let every Indian do a soul searching for their acts of commission and omission in making India a truly SOVEREIGN, SOCIALIST SECULAR DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to secure to all its citizens:
JUSTICE, social, economic and political;
LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship;
EQUALITY of status and of opportunity;
and to promote among them all FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual
and the unity and integrity of the Nation as envisaged in our Constitution.
Let us get away from bad governance to GOOD SELF ADMINISTRATION truly 'OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, FOR THE PEOPLE'.
Let us eradicate the evils of the failures of our present day governance and mal-administration leading to corruption, nepotism, crony-ism, etc. and instead create a totally transparent and accountable society where everyone is equal before law in letter and spirit.
JUSTICE, social, economic and political;
LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship;
EQUALITY of status and of opportunity;
and to promote among them all FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual
and the unity and integrity of the Nation as envisaged in our Constitution.
Let us get away from bad governance to GOOD SELF ADMINISTRATION truly 'OF THE PEOPLE, BY THE PEOPLE, FOR THE PEOPLE'.
Let us eradicate the evils of the failures of our present day governance and mal-administration leading to corruption, nepotism, crony-ism, etc. and instead create a totally transparent and accountable society where everyone is equal before law in letter and spirit.
Labels: 62 Republic Day of India, accountability, anti-corruption, Equality, Justice, Liberty, poverty eradication, transparency
Action Against Corruption - Call for "Stop Corruption; Save India; Save Democracy"
On 26 January 2011 06:21, Mr. Era Sezhiyan, leading Parliamentarian wrote:
"I welcome the call 'Stop corruption! Save Democracy! Save India!'.
Efforts should be made to get the support of all people in all walks of life including prominent political leaders who accept this objective".
My reply:
We are grateful to you for your kind words of encouragement and guidance. How we wish, we had a senior leader like you was available to lead the silent human chain rally.
The nation is in dire need of transparent and self accountable political leaders of your caliber. We pray to the Almighty to give you many more years of active life and guide the present day adults and youth to lead a genuine democratic life of value to the community and society.
On 25 January 2011 21:46, Kris Dev wrote:
India Against Corruption a movement of Activists and NGOs from around India and NRIs appeals to one and all to join the Human Chain Against Corruption at Gandhi Statue, Marina Beach at 9am on Jan 30, Gandhi Jayanti day. It's a citizen's initiative.
You are requested to kindly spread the message of awareness among your contacts and request them to actively participate.
About 300 NSS student volunteers are expected to participate in the human chain. The focus is "Stop Corruption; Save India; Save Democracy".
Look forward to your kind support and encouragement for this noble cause in the service of the common citizen of India.
A few actions taken in this regard are as below:
March Against Corruption on 30th January is now being held in more than 40 cities.
http://www.facebook.com/IndiACor
Kris Dev
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ujTe49jkHE
"I welcome the call 'Stop corruption! Save Democracy! Save India!'.
Efforts should be made to get the support of all people in all walks of life including prominent political leaders who accept this objective".
My reply:
We are grateful to you for your kind words of encouragement and guidance. How we wish, we had a senior leader like you was available to lead the silent human chain rally.
The nation is in dire need of transparent and self accountable political leaders of your caliber. We pray to the Almighty to give you many more years of active life and guide the present day adults and youth to lead a genuine democratic life of value to the community and society.
On 25 January 2011 21:46, Kris Dev wrote:
India Against Corruption a movement of Activists and NGOs from around India and NRIs appeals to one and all to join the Human Chain Against Corruption at Gandhi Statue, Marina Beach at 9am on Jan 30, Gandhi Jayanti day. It's a citizen's initiative.
You are requested to kindly spread the message of awareness among your contacts and request them to actively participate.
About 300 NSS student volunteers are expected to participate in the human chain. The focus is "Stop Corruption; Save India; Save Democracy".
Look forward to your kind support and encouragement for this noble cause in the service of the common citizen of India.
A few actions taken in this regard are as below:
March Against Corruption on 30th January is now being held in more than 40 cities.
http://www.facebook.com/IndiACor
Kris Dev
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ujTe49jkHE
Labels: accounatbility, Action Against Corruption, Save Democracy, Save India, Stop Corruption, transparency
Friday, January 07, 2011
India -: Asia’s other economic powerhouse
India: Asia’s other economic powerhouse
ANDY HOFFMAN — ASIA-PACIFIC REPORTER
Published The Globe and Mail Thursday, Dec. 30, 2010
India’s problems are obvious and enormous: crushing poverty, persistent corruption scandals and a crumbling infrastructure that is decades out of date.
At first blush, India’s economic virtues are less apparent, but they are tremendously compelling, particularly over the long term.
As China’s roaring economy has been the pacesetter for recovery from the global financial crisis, the world’s most populated country has garnered the bulk of international attention. From its undervalued currency to its mushrooming modern super-cities to its yawning trade surplus with the United States, China has dominated the attention of the world’s financial markets this year.
Yet 2011 may finally be the year when people wake up to the potential of the other Asian economic superpower.
India currently enjoys three major economic attributes that China lacks: democracy, favourable demographics and a preponderance of English speakers, which helps ease business dealings with the West. In 2011, these advantages could begin to bloom.
As Raghav Bahl, the founder and controlling shareholder of Network 18, India’s largest television news and business network, argues forcefully in his new book Superpower? The Amazing Race Between China’s Hare and India’s Tortoise, India has the mettle and resources needed to eventually close the economic gap with its powerful north-eastern neighbour.
For starters, Mr. Bhal notes, India is a democracy, the world’s largest, in fact. Compare that with China, where 24 members of the Central Politburo are tasked with charting the course for a nation of 1.3 billion people. The primary driver of much of China’s social, political, fiscal and monetary policy is preventing social unrest and keeping the Communist Party of China in power. Although admittedly flawed, India’s democratic system aims to elect representatives that will draft the best policies for the people and the country, not the political party they belong to.
As international objections to India’s nuclear weapons program have diminished, world leaders have begun flocking to India for diplomatic visits that are far less politically charged than missions to Beijing. India’s Parliament in New Delhi, currently led by Manmohan Singh, who was the architect of India’s key financial reforms in the 1990s, is now a must-visit location for global dignitaries.
In just the past two months, Prime Minister Singh has entertained U.S. President Barack Obama, French President Nicolas Sarkozy, China’s Premier Wen Jiabao and, most recently, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. Reinforcing India’s rising political and economic might, Mr. Singh has also visited Japan and Germany this year, rounding out his country’s engagement with most of the world’s major economies.
The Indian Prime Minister even found the time to come to Ottawa this year following Stephen Harper’s first trip to India in November, 2009.
Although Canada has yet to sign a free-trade agreement with any Asian countries (including South Korea and Singapore, where talks have dragged on for years), it began negotiations with India in November. If realized, Mr. Harper’s government has said a free-trade agreement between Canada and India could be worth $6-billion a year for each country. (Despite Canada boasting more than one million residents of South Asian descent, two-way trade with India was just $4.2-billion in 2009. Trade with China was about $50.5-billion.)
India also has demographics on its side. It will soon dwarf the rest of the world when it comes to its working age population – people between 18 and 65 who are contributing members of society. Compared to North America, Japan and even China, India is an exceptionally young country. The majority of its population is less than 30 years old and by 2020 the average age will be 29, compared to 45 in Western Europe and 48 in Japan, according to a recent report from the Canadian International Council.
China’s one-child policy has contributed to an aging population. Unless radical changes are made, China’s work force growth will end by 2030, and, like much of the rest of the world, the burden of looking after retirees will soar.
In just nine years, by 2020, the United States could be short 17 million people of working age, China 10 million, Japan nine million and Russia six million. At the same time, India will have a surplus of 47 million workers. If India can achieve the massive task of improving health care and educational services for these workers, it is sure to become an economic powerhouse.
While much has been made of China’s burgeoning consumer class, India is already endowed with a hefty middle class whose size has been estimated at about 200 million people – the entire population of Brazil.
India also enjoys an abundance of English speakers, a fact that could help facilitate more business and trade with the West, whose companies and politicians have often struggled with cultural and language challenges in China.
India represents the largest English-speaking ethnic community in the world, with about 350 million Indians displaying a reasonable proficiency in the language. Moving beyond its troubling colonial roots, English has become the language of upward mobility in India, used by cab drivers, university professors, lawyers and in business. Eighty per cent of India’s two million college graduates are English-speaking.
Despite the myriad of challenges faced by its 1.1 billion people, India is expected to record the second fastest growth of the world’s major economies in 2010, expanding by 9.7 per cent, according to the IMF. (China’s economy will grow by 10.5 per cent, the IMF says.) In the third quarter, India’s economy grew by a more-than-expected 8.9 per cent, with household spending and investment driving the expansion. According to London-based Capital Economics, India’s economic upswing will stay in good shape over the coming year.
“The structural development story is overwhelmingly positive and the government in the end will deliver on the reforms needed to ensure that the private sector continues to thrive,” Vishnu Varathan, the firm’s Asia economist, said in a recent report.
India’s government has finally come up with a plan to tackle its woeful infrastructure deficit, which Prime Minister Singh has said is choking economic growth. Government investment in roads, ports and rail could hit $500-billion (U.S.) for the five years ending in March, 2012. In the following five years, the prime minister hopes to invest another $1-trillion dollars in infrastructure with half the funds coming from the private sector.
Still, the headlines in India’s vibrant newspapers (both in Hindi and English) are currently dominated by corruption scandals involving several officials both in the public and private sectors, including the telecom minister, Andimuthu Raja, who resigned amid allegations related to wireless spectrum sales and has denied any wrongdoing. But the very fact that the corruption scandals have brought public censure is cause for optimism, according to analysts at Hong Kong’s GaveKal-Dragonomics, who say that India’s banks may present an opportunity when compared to China’s massive state-controlled lenders.
“Although India’s public banks also have guidelines forcing them to lend to priority sectors, Indian banks are clearly more mature, and more accustomed to dealing with marketplace realities,” the research and advisory firm said in a note to clients.
“And the recent loan-for-bribe scandals should improve conditions, as they demonstrate that there is now a penalty for corruption.”
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/economy/india-asias-other-economic-powerhouse/article1853707/page1/
My comments posted in the site: "How to tackle India’s problems of enormous crushing poverty, persistent corruption scandals and crumbling infrastructure"?:
Introduce Random, Anonymous, Secured Encrypted Unique Identity (UID) Number and a Multi Purpose Biometric Smart Card linked to a single money account as Debit Card for every citizen on a war footing and demonetize currency. Track anonymously all transactions and in the event of any corruption charge, make the transactions public.
Biometric Smart Card based transactions could be the magic wand to transform India through eradication of corruption from the system and ensure security of food, health, housing, education, employment and social security for all. We can see a developed India in 5 years.
ANDY HOFFMAN — ASIA-PACIFIC REPORTER
Published The Globe and Mail Thursday, Dec. 30, 2010
India’s problems are obvious and enormous: crushing poverty, persistent corruption scandals and a crumbling infrastructure that is decades out of date.
At first blush, India’s economic virtues are less apparent, but they are tremendously compelling, particularly over the long term.
As China’s roaring economy has been the pacesetter for recovery from the global financial crisis, the world’s most populated country has garnered the bulk of international attention. From its undervalued currency to its mushrooming modern super-cities to its yawning trade surplus with the United States, China has dominated the attention of the world’s financial markets this year.
Yet 2011 may finally be the year when people wake up to the potential of the other Asian economic superpower.
India currently enjoys three major economic attributes that China lacks: democracy, favourable demographics and a preponderance of English speakers, which helps ease business dealings with the West. In 2011, these advantages could begin to bloom.
As Raghav Bahl, the founder and controlling shareholder of Network 18, India’s largest television news and business network, argues forcefully in his new book Superpower? The Amazing Race Between China’s Hare and India’s Tortoise, India has the mettle and resources needed to eventually close the economic gap with its powerful north-eastern neighbour.
For starters, Mr. Bhal notes, India is a democracy, the world’s largest, in fact. Compare that with China, where 24 members of the Central Politburo are tasked with charting the course for a nation of 1.3 billion people. The primary driver of much of China’s social, political, fiscal and monetary policy is preventing social unrest and keeping the Communist Party of China in power. Although admittedly flawed, India’s democratic system aims to elect representatives that will draft the best policies for the people and the country, not the political party they belong to.
As international objections to India’s nuclear weapons program have diminished, world leaders have begun flocking to India for diplomatic visits that are far less politically charged than missions to Beijing. India’s Parliament in New Delhi, currently led by Manmohan Singh, who was the architect of India’s key financial reforms in the 1990s, is now a must-visit location for global dignitaries.
In just the past two months, Prime Minister Singh has entertained U.S. President Barack Obama, French President Nicolas Sarkozy, China’s Premier Wen Jiabao and, most recently, Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. Reinforcing India’s rising political and economic might, Mr. Singh has also visited Japan and Germany this year, rounding out his country’s engagement with most of the world’s major economies.
The Indian Prime Minister even found the time to come to Ottawa this year following Stephen Harper’s first trip to India in November, 2009.
Although Canada has yet to sign a free-trade agreement with any Asian countries (including South Korea and Singapore, where talks have dragged on for years), it began negotiations with India in November. If realized, Mr. Harper’s government has said a free-trade agreement between Canada and India could be worth $6-billion a year for each country. (Despite Canada boasting more than one million residents of South Asian descent, two-way trade with India was just $4.2-billion in 2009. Trade with China was about $50.5-billion.)
India also has demographics on its side. It will soon dwarf the rest of the world when it comes to its working age population – people between 18 and 65 who are contributing members of society. Compared to North America, Japan and even China, India is an exceptionally young country. The majority of its population is less than 30 years old and by 2020 the average age will be 29, compared to 45 in Western Europe and 48 in Japan, according to a recent report from the Canadian International Council.
China’s one-child policy has contributed to an aging population. Unless radical changes are made, China’s work force growth will end by 2030, and, like much of the rest of the world, the burden of looking after retirees will soar.
In just nine years, by 2020, the United States could be short 17 million people of working age, China 10 million, Japan nine million and Russia six million. At the same time, India will have a surplus of 47 million workers. If India can achieve the massive task of improving health care and educational services for these workers, it is sure to become an economic powerhouse.
While much has been made of China’s burgeoning consumer class, India is already endowed with a hefty middle class whose size has been estimated at about 200 million people – the entire population of Brazil.
India also enjoys an abundance of English speakers, a fact that could help facilitate more business and trade with the West, whose companies and politicians have often struggled with cultural and language challenges in China.
India represents the largest English-speaking ethnic community in the world, with about 350 million Indians displaying a reasonable proficiency in the language. Moving beyond its troubling colonial roots, English has become the language of upward mobility in India, used by cab drivers, university professors, lawyers and in business. Eighty per cent of India’s two million college graduates are English-speaking.
Despite the myriad of challenges faced by its 1.1 billion people, India is expected to record the second fastest growth of the world’s major economies in 2010, expanding by 9.7 per cent, according to the IMF. (China’s economy will grow by 10.5 per cent, the IMF says.) In the third quarter, India’s economy grew by a more-than-expected 8.9 per cent, with household spending and investment driving the expansion. According to London-based Capital Economics, India’s economic upswing will stay in good shape over the coming year.
“The structural development story is overwhelmingly positive and the government in the end will deliver on the reforms needed to ensure that the private sector continues to thrive,” Vishnu Varathan, the firm’s Asia economist, said in a recent report.
India’s government has finally come up with a plan to tackle its woeful infrastructure deficit, which Prime Minister Singh has said is choking economic growth. Government investment in roads, ports and rail could hit $500-billion (U.S.) for the five years ending in March, 2012. In the following five years, the prime minister hopes to invest another $1-trillion dollars in infrastructure with half the funds coming from the private sector.
Still, the headlines in India’s vibrant newspapers (both in Hindi and English) are currently dominated by corruption scandals involving several officials both in the public and private sectors, including the telecom minister, Andimuthu Raja, who resigned amid allegations related to wireless spectrum sales and has denied any wrongdoing. But the very fact that the corruption scandals have brought public censure is cause for optimism, according to analysts at Hong Kong’s GaveKal-Dragonomics, who say that India’s banks may present an opportunity when compared to China’s massive state-controlled lenders.
“Although India’s public banks also have guidelines forcing them to lend to priority sectors, Indian banks are clearly more mature, and more accustomed to dealing with marketplace realities,” the research and advisory firm said in a note to clients.
“And the recent loan-for-bribe scandals should improve conditions, as they demonstrate that there is now a penalty for corruption.”
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/economy/india-asias-other-economic-powerhouse/article1853707/page1/
My comments posted in the site: "How to tackle India’s problems of enormous crushing poverty, persistent corruption scandals and crumbling infrastructure"?:
Introduce Random, Anonymous, Secured Encrypted Unique Identity (UID) Number and a Multi Purpose Biometric Smart Card linked to a single money account as Debit Card for every citizen on a war footing and demonetize currency. Track anonymously all transactions and in the event of any corruption charge, make the transactions public.
Biometric Smart Card based transactions could be the magic wand to transform India through eradication of corruption from the system and ensure security of food, health, housing, education, employment and social security for all. We can see a developed India in 5 years.
Labels: Asia, Biometric Smart Card, corruption, economic powerhouse, education, health care, India, Poverty Alleviation, scandals, social security, Unique Identity Scheme
