20 ways Google can make your life easier

1.

Find flight details

When you type in a flight number (eg: 6E 322, for Indigo 322 from Guwahati to Mumbai via Kolkata), Google will instantly tell you what time it left the origin, expected arrival time and other info like terminalgate (if available). Check this when you're going to receive someone at the airport.

2.

Book hotels

Type in any hotel name and city to see a list of competitive room rates and ratings. You can click through to read reviews and if you know which hotel you want, proceed straight to checking the availability and booking your room.

3.

Convert anything

The conversion engine is powerful. If you need instant currency conversions with the latest market rates, just type it. For instance, you can type 550 GBP to INR for Pounds to Indian Rupees. Or $100 to INR for US Dollars. If you don't know the currency code, you can also get results by typing 100 US dollars to Indian Rupees. The same works for all sorts of unit conversions too (sq. feet, kms, inches, miles and so on).

4.

Compare nutrition information

Weight watchers need to count calories and you can use Google to compare the calorific value of different foods. For instance, type hamburger vs spaghetti to get an instant comparison table on calories, carbs and vitamins for a specific amount of food.

5.

Set a timer

Use the words 'set a timer for' or 'timer 10 minutes' to instantly set a timer within the browser. You can maximise the page for a full screen timer with large fonts (to be read across a room) or minimise the browser and keep working - it will beep once over.

6.

Instant language translations

Google Translate offers lots of functionality, but if you only need a quick word or phrase translated, just use normal language to ask 'can you help me in French'. Not only does it show you the text translation but also shows you how to speak it.

7.

Etymology

This is the study of words and their origin. Trivia nerds can just type etymology followed by the word that they need info for. You'll get phonetics, meaning, origin, history, usage over time and the option to translate it into various languages.

8.

Play a quick game

Type zerg rush into the search bar for a quick game. A swarm of O's will come and attack the search results and you have to click on them to 'kill' them. In Google image search, type Atari breakout and play using the left-right keys.

9.

A bit of fun

Type 'tilt' & search to see what happens. Or type 'do a barrel roll'. Star Trek fans will enjoy Google Klingon and for a quick look at some of Google's wacky extras, head to http:www.elgoog.im (I'm Google in reverse) - although the site is not really affiliated with Google. Here, you can see some of the classics like the snake game doodle, a playable Pac Man, the Les Paul playable guitar and gravity effects.

10.

Revisit any doodle

Some of the doodles that Google creates for its home page are truly spectacular. You can access all past doodles (even the country-specific ones) by heading to http:www.google.comdoodles.

11.

Check updated scores for a game

To get scores for ongoing sporting events, search for the team name followed by 'score'. It will also give you a quick look at the overall schedule of the team.

12.

Get weather for any city

You can get a quick weather report (including a week's forecast) for any city in the world by typing weather followed by the city name. Similarly you can also get the sunrise sunset time of a city by typing Sunrise or Sunset before the city name.

13.

Movie release dates

Add 'release date' in front of a movie name to find out when it is hitting the theatres in the US. If you want the release date for a specific country, add the country name after the movie name (release date Avengers 2 India).You can also search for movie show times near you by typing 'movie' followed by city name.

14.

Information on any authoractor

If you want to know about a particular actor, author, director or other celebrity, search for their full name in Google. Google collates a lot of info on them to show you everything at a glance.

15.

Definitions of any word

Type 'Define' followed by the word in the search bar. Google will show the meaning of the word along with synonyms as well as an audio clip on how the word is to be pronounced.

16.

Calculate the exact tip

Search for 'Tip Calculator' to bring up a box for this - it also calculates tip per person. Note that this is in USD though it hardly matters when calculating the tip as a percentage.

17.

Get TV episode information

Quite like with movies, when you search for a TV show by name, it will display information about the cast, director as well as an episode list for quick reference. Note that this only works for TV shows that are currently being aired in the US.

18.

Find local businesses near you ­

You can search for specific businesses in any location. Search for the type of business and location to see results with map location. If you do not mention a specific location, Google will automatically show the business places around your current location.

19.

Let me Google that for you

When someone asks you something simple (and they should have just Googled in the first place), head to http:www.lmgtfy.com (the URL is the abbreviated form of 'let me google that for you'). Type in a search wordphrase and the site will create a URL for you to share with that person. Share the URL for some fun. The site is not affiliated with Google, even though it lets you search normally.

20.

Get detailed stock updates

Type in 'stock' followed by the name of any listed company to view an up-to-date graph on how the company is performing in NASDAQ. It also shows you a trend graph for 1 day, 1 month or even 5 years.

08.20 | 0 komentar | Read More

Live blog: Subhas Chandra Bose's family leads protest march in Kolkata

Amid snooping row, kin of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose are taking out a rally in Kolkata demanding declassification of all secret files related to the freedom fighter. Stay with the TOI Live blog for latest news and updates.

03:24 PM

Netaji's family holds rally demanding declassification of files

03:20 PM

There is a deliberate attempt to distort history.

Abhijit Roy, Netaji's grand nephew

03:08 PM

Netaji's family leads march in Kolkata, appeals to Mamata Banerjee to join the rally

02:49 PM

We demand that more than 100 files classified with the central government should immediately be declassified: Abhijit Roy, SC Bose's great grandson

02:18 PM

Not only did the Nehru government snoop on Netaji Subhas Bose but also shared confidential information with British intelligence agency MI5. Recently, declassified documents reveal India's Intelligence Bureau shared with MI5 a letter between close Netaji aide AC Nambiar and nephew Amiya Nath Bose acquired through "secret censorship" and even sought more information on the subject.

02:17 PM

Documents accessed by author Anuj Dhar for his book 'India's Biggest Cover-up' show that Nehru, in a letter dated November 26, 1957 to the then foreign secretary Subimal Dutt sought to know what Bose's nephew Amiya Nath Bose was doing in Tokyo. In response, India's ambassador to Tokyo reported back assuring New Delhi that Amiya Bose had not "indulged in any undesirable activities".

02:13 PM

Surya Kumar Bose, grand nephew of Subhas Chandra Bose, met the Prime Minister after attending a reception hosted in Modi's honour by India's ambassador to Germany Vijay Gokhale.

02:12 PM

On Monday night, Netaji's grand nephew Surya Kumar Bose met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Berlin and raised the issue of declassification of all secret files related to the freedom fighter.

02:11 PM

Netaji's family will lead a protest march to INA Bhavan in Kolkata in the afternoon.

02:09 PM

Amid snooping row, kin of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose are taking out a rally in Kolkata demanding declassification of all secret files related to the freedom fighter. Stay with the TOI Live blog for latest news and updates.

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08.20 | 0 komentar | Read More

MF Simplified: The benefits of staying invested

If you are planning to invest you money into the market, or have already invested with a goal to achieve capital appreciation, staying invested makes more sense than moving in and out of the market. Every good financial advisor preaches and practices the mantra - "time in the market is more important than timing the market".

A lot of investors make the mistake of abandoning their financial plans at the first sign of bad news. Instead, one would do well to take a macro perspective and realize that over the years, bull markets have lasted longer than bear markets. It is also interesting to note that on most occasions, the upward rallies have easily made up for short-term declines.

More Reasons for Staying Invested:

· Sense of Discipline: Staying true to your financial plan inculcates a sense of discipline towards long-term goals. Regular investing is probably one of the most critical aspects for wealth-creation.

· Benefits from Compounding: The mathematical reason for staying invested was well articulated by Albert Einstein, who said, "Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it ... he who doesn't ... pays it." Give your money the time to grow. Let it work as hard as you do.

· Benefits from a Full Market Cycle: Understanding the markets is easy, timing them isn't. We do know that markets tend to follow a cycle of ups and downs and bulls and bears. Staying invested allows you to participate in the rallies. This is an opportunity to buy low and sell high because in the long-term, the good schemes have always delivered positive returns.

· Leverage Long-Term Strategies: When you agree to stay invested for a longer duration, you give yourself the opportunity to benefit from the long-term strategy and vision of an experienced money manager or mutual fund manager.

· Tax Benefits: Long-term capital gains arising on the transfer of units of an 'equity oriented' mutual fund is exempt from income tax. Moreover, investments in Equity Linked Saving Schemes from mutual fund houses are exempt u/s 80/C of the IT Act.

The MF Route to Long-Term Investments

A dynamically managed mutual fund is one of the best investment vehicles for retail investors looking to gain from long-term investments. An Asset Management Company offers various schemes that pursue different objectives. These schemes are actively managed by experienced fund managers who follow a well-defined investment style and proven processes.

Systematic Investment Plan is the best mode of long-term investment for a retail investor. An SIP allows you to make the most of a bearish market as you gain from rupee cost averaging.

It is all about the Mindset

Staying invested and periodically reviewing your financial plan has proven to be one of the surest ways of creating long-term wealth. When investing in uncertain times, following the basics is the best way forward.

When the outlook is pessimistic, it is natural to be worried about ones hard-earned money. Wharton professor Jeremy Siegel once said, "Volatility scares enough people out of the market to generate superior returns for those who stay in!"

Many will ignore that advice. However, the fact about the market is that it is impossible to predict when a bull market will begin. If you stay invested, you never miss the party and usually reap good returns. It is better than missing out by waiting on the sidelines.

Contact Us (through the Query form on the right hand side) to know more about the basics of financial planning and to learn about the long-term investment opportunities that meets your financial goals.

08.20 | 0 komentar | Read More

Live: Subhas Chandra Bose's kin hold rally in Kolkata over snooping row

Amid snooping row, kin of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose are taking out a rally in Kolkata demanding declassification of all secret files related to the freedom fighter. Stay with the TOI Live blog for latest news and updates.

03:24 PM

Netaji's family holds rally demanding declassification of files

03:20 PM

There is a deliberate attempt to distort history.

Abhijit Roy, Netaji's grand nephew

03:08 PM

Netaji's family leads march in Kolkata, appeals to Mamata Banerjee to join the rally

02:49 PM

We demand that more than 100 files classified with the central government should immediately be declassified: Abhijit Roy, SC Bose's great grandson

02:18 PM

Not only did the Nehru government snoop on Netaji Subhas Bose but also shared confidential information with British intelligence agency MI5. Recently, declassified documents reveal India's Intelligence Bureau shared with MI5 a letter between close Netaji aide AC Nambiar and nephew Amiya Nath Bose acquired through "secret censorship" and even sought more information on the subject.

02:17 PM

Documents accessed by author Anuj Dhar for his book 'India's Biggest Cover-up' show that Nehru, in a letter dated November 26, 1957 to the then foreign secretary Subimal Dutt sought to know what Bose's nephew Amiya Nath Bose was doing in Tokyo. In response, India's ambassador to Tokyo reported back assuring New Delhi that Amiya Bose had not "indulged in any undesirable activities".

02:13 PM

Surya Kumar Bose, grand nephew of Subhas Chandra Bose, met the Prime Minister after attending a reception hosted in Modi's honour by India's ambassador to Germany Vijay Gokhale.

02:12 PM

On Monday night, Netaji's grand nephew Surya Kumar Bose met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Berlin and raised the issue of declassification of all secret files related to the freedom fighter.

02:11 PM

Netaji's family will lead a protest march to INA Bhavan in Kolkata in the afternoon.

02:09 PM

Amid snooping row, kin of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose are taking out a rally in Kolkata demanding declassification of all secret files related to the freedom fighter. Stay with the TOI Live blog for latest news and updates.

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08.20 | 0 komentar | Read More

Live: AAP rebels hold 'swaraj samvad', many prominent leaders stay away

08:03 PM

Swaraj samvad will become the platform for people to raise their voice.

Professor Anand Kumar

08:01 PM

A step towards alternative politics

Supporters of alternative politics should welcome this step and those who can't, I can only feel sorry for them: Yogendra Yadav

08:00 PM

Strategy for country's future maps

Will make the strategy for country's future maps and will train workers: Yogendra Yadav on Swaraj Samvad.

07:30 PM

Swaraj Abhiyan initiative

After today's Swaraj Samvad a proposal has been made that by the name of Swaraj Abhiyan an initiative would be taken: Yogendra Yadav.

07:13 PM

AAP falling prey to 'undemocratic behaviour': Ramdas

Admiral L Ramdas, who was removed last month from the post of AAP's internal Lokpal, today came out strongly against the party's top leadership, saying it has "failed" to live up to its promise and has fallen prey to "undemocratic" behaviour.

06:40 PM

'Swaraj Samwad' organisers said to have been removed from AAP: Prashant Bhushan

Senior AAP leader Prashant Bhushan said that the party members who organised the 'Swaraj Samwad' meet are said to have been removed from the political organization.

05:14 PM

If today we announce of forming a new political party, then dangers will be the same which AAP is facing: Prashant Bhushan

04:58 PM

Now we are hearing that as we have organized this dialogue, we have been removed from party: Prashant Bhushan

04:57 PM

We demanded that lokpal should be made in each state with final decisions taken by national lokpal, but party leadership denied it: Prashant Bhushan

04:56 PM

It's been two years we can't even see the party decisions on party's website, what kind of transparency is this?

Prashant Bhushan

04:55 PM

We promised that we will be the first party that will come on RTI: Prashant Bhushan.

03:46 PM

Veteran Journalist Kuldip Nayyar also sent out a message said that "insulting" people like Bhushan and Yadav was a big mistake.

03:45 PM

Clarifying that he is "not from and has never" been part of AAP, activist Nikhil Dey read out Roy's message. "We will have to make sure that common man has full stake in democracy. Alternative politics should be accountable, transparent and one that responds to people," she said.

03:45 PM

Christina Samy, another expelled national executive member, social activists Aruna Roy, Medha Patkar, who had recently quit AAP, were also conspicuous by their absence from the Gurgaon meet.

03:42 PM

AAP's Patiala MP Dharamvira Gandhi, who had earlier faced the leadership's ire for taking stand in favour of the dissidents, in a letter stressed the need to work towards strengthening the party's core ideals.

03:41 PM

Many prominent leaders stay away from 'swaraj samvad'

A number of AAP leaders and prominent individuals today stayed away from the convention of party rebels Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan and chose to express solidarity through written statements instead.

02:44 PM

Audio message of Admiral Ramdas played out

An audio message of Admiral L Ramdas's, who was recently removed from the post of party's internal Lokpal, was played out from the stage. In the message Ramdas said that a samvad cannot be seen as an "anti party activity" and that people must be allowed to speak in a democracy.

02:43 PM

At the convention, key leaders who were seen on stage include the four expelled members from AAP's national executive — Yogendra Yadav, Bhushan, Anand Kumar and Ajit Jha — Timarpur MLA Pankaj Pushkar and several Lok Sabha candidates from various states.

02:23 PM

One opinion is that everything is fine with party leadership and we should trust them. The other opinion is we should struggle or we should form other party: Yogendra Yadav

01:03 PM

We need to give a thought as to why farmers are committing suicide? Shanti Bhushan at 'swaraj samvad' meeting

12:13 PM

AAP has declared a 'Tughlaqi farmaan': Shazia Ilmi, BJP

12:12 PM

National executive will be monitoring all the activities and then take a decision

Gopal Rai, AAP leader

11:52 AM

There should be no retribution for participation in the meeting. A dialogue cannot be reasons for action

AAP's former Lokpal Admiral Ramdas

11:45 AM

Many volunteers are still hoping for a miracle to see a united AAP: AAP's former Lokpal Admiral Ramdas

11:44 AM

It's a dialogue on alternative politics: Yogendra Yadav

11:21 AM

AAP PAC to hold meet after rebel's convention to decide future course of action: TV reports

10:11 AM

Party need not own the meeting. Yogendra Yadav

10:10 AM

Whatever the outcome, it'll be in front of your eyes: Yogendra Yadav

10:08 AM

It's a dialogue on alternative politics.

Yogendra Yadav on 'Swaraj Samvad'

10:07 AM

AAP member Yogendra Yadav arrives for the 'Swaraj Samvad' meet.

10:07 AM

Thousands of members from different states will be attending the 'Swaraj Samvad': Vishal Sharma Lathe (Former AAP NC member)

10:05 AM

'Swaraj Samvad' has been organized to strengthen AAP: Pankaj Pushkar, AAP's Timarpur MLA

10:03 AM

Party leadership is monitoring the activities and will see as to what is discussed in the meet: Sanjay Singh

10:03 AM

The 'Swaraj samvad' program that is being organized is not an authorized event of the party: Sanjay Singh

10:03 AM

AAP warns volunteers

AAP on Monday sent out a strong message to volunteers who are likely to attend Tuesday's samvad, saying that it would be keeping an eye on the proceedings and take "necessary action" in the coming days. Sanjay Singh, who has recently returned from Odisha where he sought to dispel claims made by the other side, said that there was disillusionment within the cadre and where necessary, he would be travelling to various states to address volunteers directly. "The party has nothing to do with Tuesday's meeting. The way it is being advertised makes it seem AAP has moved away from its core values. This is defaming the party. After the outcome of this samvad becomes clear, we will decide what is to be done," said Singh.

10:02 AM

Speculation is rife about the meeting's outcome with the possibility of the dissident group forming another political outfit not being ruled out.

10:00 AM

The meeting may result in the formation of a separate party though it is almost certain that Yadav, Bhushan and a few others will be removed from the party's primary membership in the near future.

10:00 AM

AAP's dissident group, led by Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan, is discussing the way forward for the party at a day-long 'samvad' meet today. Stay with the TOI Live Blog for latest news and updates.

08.20 | 0 komentar | Read More

MF Simplified: The benefits of staying invested

If you are planning to invest you money into the market, or have already invested with a goal to achieve capital appreciation, staying invested makes more sense than moving in and out of the market. Every good financial advisor preaches and practices the mantra - "time in the market is more important than timing the market".

A lot of investors make the mistake of abandoning their financial plans at the first sign of bad news. Instead, one would do well to take a macro perspective and realize that over the years, bull markets have lasted longer than bear markets. It is also interesting to note that on most occasions, the upward rallies have easily made up for short-term declines.

More Reasons for Staying Invested:

· Sense of Discipline: Staying true to your financial plan inculcates a sense of discipline towards long-term goals. Regular investing is probably one of the most critical aspects for wealth-creation.

· Benefits from Compounding: The mathematical reason for staying invested was well articulated by Albert Einstein, who said, "Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it ... he who doesn't ... pays it." Give your money the time to grow. Let it work as hard as you do.

· Benefits from a Full Market Cycle: Understanding the markets is easy, timing them isn't. We do know that markets tend to follow a cycle of ups and downs and bulls and bears. Staying invested allows you to participate in the rallies. This is an opportunity to buy low and sell high because in the long-term, the good schemes have always delivered positive returns.

· Leverage Long-Term Strategies: When you agree to stay invested for a longer duration, you give yourself the opportunity to benefit from the long-term strategy and vision of an experienced money manager or mutual fund manager.

· Tax Benefits: Long-term capital gains arising on the transfer of units of an 'equity oriented' mutual fund is exempt from income tax. Moreover, investments in Equity Linked Saving Schemes from mutual fund houses are exempt u/s 80/C of the IT Act.

The MF Route to Long-Term Investments

A dynamically managed mutual fund is one of the best investment vehicles for retail investors looking to gain from long-term investments. An Asset Management Company offers various schemes that pursue different objectives. These schemes are actively managed by experienced fund managers who follow a well-defined investment style and proven processes.

Systematic Investment Plan is the best mode of long-term investment for a retail investor. An SIP allows you to make the most of a bearish market as you gain from rupee cost averaging.

It is all about the Mindset

Staying invested and periodically reviewing your financial plan has proven to be one of the surest ways of creating long-term wealth. When investing in uncertain times, following the basics is the best way forward.

When the outlook is pessimistic, it is natural to be worried about ones hard-earned money. Wharton professor Jeremy Siegel once said, "Volatility scares enough people out of the market to generate superior returns for those who stay in!"

Many will ignore that advice. However, the fact about the market is that it is impossible to predict when a bull market will begin. If you stay invested, you never miss the party and usually reap good returns. It is better than missing out by waiting on the sidelines.

Contact Us (through the Query form on the right hand side) to know more about the basics of financial planning and to learn about the long-term investment opportunities that meets your financial goals.

08.20 | 0 komentar | Read More

Blog: Gen Singh, we're proud of your Yemen job

Former army chief, Gen VK Singh (Retd) continues to have a love-hate relationship with the media. The combative soldier, now a minister of state in the external affairs ministry, came home last week after a hugely successful mission to evacuate Indians from a war-torn Yemen.

Irrespective of how the national media treated the evacuation mission done under his leadership, by all available bits, Gen Singh did a remarkable job. Then what explains this strange relationship with the media, some of who he referred to as 'presstitutes'?

We all know that the general wears his emotions on his sleeves, which is not a bad thing, but for someone in a position that he is, it can prove to be a disadvantage, especially if there are those who want to misinterpret what he says. But, has the media really been fair to him?

Let us look at the time he attended the reception at the Pakistan High Commission last month for their national day celebrations, the one which started this newest bout of acrimony with the media. First of all, I think it was a wrong call on part of the government to send him, so what if he is a minister and was duty bound to go, for THAT function. He is after all an army man, and all know the relationship we have with Pakistan, especially the fact that their army is openly hostile, foments trouble in India, even as our politically controlled response is invariably a measured one. At a time like that, when the general reacts, the media's response should've borne in mind the sensitivity, but we chose to sensationalize instead.

Then came the incident in Yemen, where he said that evacuating Indians from Yemen was less exciting than going to the Pak embassy. Let's be fair, it was a sarcastic comment, perhaps a dig at some of us too, but it was just that, and no more. I am sure he was still smarting under the undue chatter that accompanied his Pakistan High Commission visit. But our media raked it up, totally unnecessarily. Should the general, now that he is a minister, have been mindful of what he said, and to make it worse, followed it up by calling some in the media 'presstitutes'? He shouldn't have! It appeared flippant' Having said that though, we too perhaps need to accept things in the spirit that they are said and not latch on to every word just because we may have a score to settle.

We are proud how the general marshaled the evacuation process in Yemen. It demanded precision and planning that only a top notch army man could have managed. Full marks to the government for deputing him for the job.

And before I end, do take a look at how the foreign media covered India's operation Rahat (rescue). It's almost gushing in praise. Let us give the man, and the team he marshaled, their due too.

How BBC saw operation Rahat

How CNN saw operation Rahat

DISCLAIMER : Views expressed above are the author's own.

08.20 | 0 komentar | Read More

Live blog: Subhas Chandra Bose's family leads protest march in Kolkata

Amid snooping row, kin of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose are taking out a rally in Kolkata demanding declassification of all secret files related to the freedom fighter. Stay with the TOI Live blog for latest news and updates.

03:24 PM

Netaji's family holds rally demanding declassification of files

03:20 PM

There is a deliberate attempt to distort history.

Abhijit Roy, Netaji's grand nephew

03:08 PM

Netaji's family leads march in Kolkata, appeals to Mamata Banerjee to join the rally

02:49 PM

We demand that more than 100 files classified with the central government should immediately be declassified: Abhijit Roy, SC Bose's great grandson

02:18 PM

Not only did the Nehru government snoop on Netaji Subhas Bose but also shared confidential information with British intelligence agency MI5. Recently, declassified documents reveal India's Intelligence Bureau shared with MI5 a letter between close Netaji aide AC Nambiar and nephew Amiya Nath Bose acquired through "secret censorship" and even sought more information on the subject.

02:17 PM

Documents accessed by author Anuj Dhar for his book 'India's Biggest Cover-up' show that Nehru, in a letter dated November 26, 1957 to the then foreign secretary Subimal Dutt sought to know what Bose's nephew Amiya Nath Bose was doing in Tokyo. In response, India's ambassador to Tokyo reported back assuring New Delhi that Amiya Bose had not "indulged in any undesirable activities".

02:13 PM

Surya Kumar Bose, grand nephew of Subhas Chandra Bose, met the Prime Minister after attending a reception hosted in Modi's honour by India's ambassador to Germany Vijay Gokhale.

02:12 PM

On Monday night, Netaji's grand nephew Surya Kumar Bose met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Berlin and raised the issue of declassification of all secret files related to the freedom fighter.

02:11 PM

Netaji's family will lead a protest march to INA Bhavan in Kolkata in the afternoon.

02:09 PM

Amid snooping row, kin of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose are taking out a rally in Kolkata demanding declassification of all secret files related to the freedom fighter. Stay with the TOI Live blog for latest news and updates.

{{if user.username || user.id}} {{:user.name}} {{else}} {{:user.name}} {{/if}} {{if user.points}} • {{:user.points}} {{:user.pointsNeeded}} more points needed to reach next level. Know more about Times Points {{/if}} {{if user.badge}} {{/if}} {{/for}} {{if user.badge.length > 3}} {{/if}}

08.20 | 0 komentar | Read More

Live: Subhas Chandra Bose's kin hold rally in Kolkata over snooping row

Amid snooping row, kin of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose are taking out a rally in Kolkata demanding declassification of all secret files related to the freedom fighter. Stay with the TOI Live blog for latest news and updates.

03:24 PM

Netaji's family holds rally demanding declassification of files

03:20 PM

There is a deliberate attempt to distort history.

Abhijit Roy, Netaji's grand nephew

03:08 PM

Netaji's family leads march in Kolkata, appeals to Mamata Banerjee to join the rally

02:49 PM

We demand that more than 100 files classified with the central government should immediately be declassified: Abhijit Roy, SC Bose's great grandson

02:18 PM

Not only did the Nehru government snoop on Netaji Subhas Bose but also shared confidential information with British intelligence agency MI5. Recently, declassified documents reveal India's Intelligence Bureau shared with MI5 a letter between close Netaji aide AC Nambiar and nephew Amiya Nath Bose acquired through "secret censorship" and even sought more information on the subject.

02:17 PM

Documents accessed by author Anuj Dhar for his book 'India's Biggest Cover-up' show that Nehru, in a letter dated November 26, 1957 to the then foreign secretary Subimal Dutt sought to know what Bose's nephew Amiya Nath Bose was doing in Tokyo. In response, India's ambassador to Tokyo reported back assuring New Delhi that Amiya Bose had not "indulged in any undesirable activities".

02:13 PM

Surya Kumar Bose, grand nephew of Subhas Chandra Bose, met the Prime Minister after attending a reception hosted in Modi's honour by India's ambassador to Germany Vijay Gokhale.

02:12 PM

On Monday night, Netaji's grand nephew Surya Kumar Bose met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Berlin and raised the issue of declassification of all secret files related to the freedom fighter.

02:11 PM

Netaji's family will lead a protest march to INA Bhavan in Kolkata in the afternoon.

02:09 PM

Amid snooping row, kin of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose are taking out a rally in Kolkata demanding declassification of all secret files related to the freedom fighter. Stay with the TOI Live blog for latest news and updates.

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08.20 | 0 komentar | Read More

Live: AAP rebels hold 'swaraj samvad', many prominent leaders stay away

08:03 PM

Swaraj samvad will become the platform for people to raise their voice.

Professor Anand Kumar

08:01 PM

A step towards alternative politics

Supporters of alternative politics should welcome this step and those who can't, I can only feel sorry for them: Yogendra Yadav

08:00 PM

Strategy for country's future maps

Will make the strategy for country's future maps and will train workers: Yogendra Yadav on Swaraj Samvad.

07:30 PM

Swaraj Abhiyan initiative

After today's Swaraj Samvad a proposal has been made that by the name of Swaraj Abhiyan an initiative would be taken: Yogendra Yadav.

07:13 PM

AAP falling prey to 'undemocratic behaviour': Ramdas

Admiral L Ramdas, who was removed last month from the post of AAP's internal Lokpal, today came out strongly against the party's top leadership, saying it has "failed" to live up to its promise and has fallen prey to "undemocratic" behaviour.

06:40 PM

'Swaraj Samwad' organisers said to have been removed from AAP: Prashant Bhushan

Senior AAP leader Prashant Bhushan said that the party members who organised the 'Swaraj Samwad' meet are said to have been removed from the political organization.

05:14 PM

If today we announce of forming a new political party, then dangers will be the same which AAP is facing: Prashant Bhushan

04:58 PM

Now we are hearing that as we have organized this dialogue, we have been removed from party: Prashant Bhushan

04:57 PM

We demanded that lokpal should be made in each state with final decisions taken by national lokpal, but party leadership denied it: Prashant Bhushan

04:56 PM

It's been two years we can't even see the party decisions on party's website, what kind of transparency is this?

Prashant Bhushan

04:55 PM

We promised that we will be the first party that will come on RTI: Prashant Bhushan.

03:46 PM

Veteran Journalist Kuldip Nayyar also sent out a message said that "insulting" people like Bhushan and Yadav was a big mistake.

03:45 PM

Clarifying that he is "not from and has never" been part of AAP, activist Nikhil Dey read out Roy's message. "We will have to make sure that common man has full stake in democracy. Alternative politics should be accountable, transparent and one that responds to people," she said.

03:45 PM

Christina Samy, another expelled national executive member, social activists Aruna Roy, Medha Patkar, who had recently quit AAP, were also conspicuous by their absence from the Gurgaon meet.

03:42 PM

AAP's Patiala MP Dharamvira Gandhi, who had earlier faced the leadership's ire for taking stand in favour of the dissidents, in a letter stressed the need to work towards strengthening the party's core ideals.

03:41 PM

Many prominent leaders stay away from 'swaraj samvad'

A number of AAP leaders and prominent individuals today stayed away from the convention of party rebels Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan and chose to express solidarity through written statements instead.

02:44 PM

Audio message of Admiral Ramdas played out

An audio message of Admiral L Ramdas's, who was recently removed from the post of party's internal Lokpal, was played out from the stage. In the message Ramdas said that a samvad cannot be seen as an "anti party activity" and that people must be allowed to speak in a democracy.

02:43 PM

At the convention, key leaders who were seen on stage include the four expelled members from AAP's national executive — Yogendra Yadav, Bhushan, Anand Kumar and Ajit Jha — Timarpur MLA Pankaj Pushkar and several Lok Sabha candidates from various states.

02:23 PM

One opinion is that everything is fine with party leadership and we should trust them. The other opinion is we should struggle or we should form other party: Yogendra Yadav

01:03 PM

We need to give a thought as to why farmers are committing suicide? Shanti Bhushan at 'swaraj samvad' meeting

12:13 PM

AAP has declared a 'Tughlaqi farmaan': Shazia Ilmi, BJP

12:12 PM

National executive will be monitoring all the activities and then take a decision

Gopal Rai, AAP leader

11:52 AM

There should be no retribution for participation in the meeting. A dialogue cannot be reasons for action

AAP's former Lokpal Admiral Ramdas

11:45 AM

Many volunteers are still hoping for a miracle to see a united AAP: AAP's former Lokpal Admiral Ramdas

11:44 AM

It's a dialogue on alternative politics: Yogendra Yadav

11:21 AM

AAP PAC to hold meet after rebel's convention to decide future course of action: TV reports

10:11 AM

Party need not own the meeting. Yogendra Yadav

10:10 AM

Whatever the outcome, it'll be in front of your eyes: Yogendra Yadav

10:08 AM

It's a dialogue on alternative politics.

Yogendra Yadav on 'Swaraj Samvad'

10:07 AM

AAP member Yogendra Yadav arrives for the 'Swaraj Samvad' meet.

10:07 AM

Thousands of members from different states will be attending the 'Swaraj Samvad': Vishal Sharma Lathe (Former AAP NC member)

10:05 AM

'Swaraj Samvad' has been organized to strengthen AAP: Pankaj Pushkar, AAP's Timarpur MLA

10:03 AM

Party leadership is monitoring the activities and will see as to what is discussed in the meet: Sanjay Singh

10:03 AM

The 'Swaraj samvad' program that is being organized is not an authorized event of the party: Sanjay Singh

10:03 AM

AAP warns volunteers

AAP on Monday sent out a strong message to volunteers who are likely to attend Tuesday's samvad, saying that it would be keeping an eye on the proceedings and take "necessary action" in the coming days. Sanjay Singh, who has recently returned from Odisha where he sought to dispel claims made by the other side, said that there was disillusionment within the cadre and where necessary, he would be travelling to various states to address volunteers directly. "The party has nothing to do with Tuesday's meeting. The way it is being advertised makes it seem AAP has moved away from its core values. This is defaming the party. After the outcome of this samvad becomes clear, we will decide what is to be done," said Singh.

10:02 AM

Speculation is rife about the meeting's outcome with the possibility of the dissident group forming another political outfit not being ruled out.

10:00 AM

The meeting may result in the formation of a separate party though it is almost certain that Yadav, Bhushan and a few others will be removed from the party's primary membership in the near future.

10:00 AM

AAP's dissident group, led by Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan, is discussing the way forward for the party at a day-long 'samvad' meet today. Stay with the TOI Live Blog for latest news and updates.

08.20 | 0 komentar | Read More

Blog: Guess what’s on the menu

I was jauntily planning to host a dinner party at our home before the summer holidays set in. This is not as uncomplicated and easy as it sounds. Food being a really sensitive issue these days, my menu was giving me sleepless nights and getting rather restricted. So many of my favourite dishes fell under the list of banned food items. And the list was getting longer and longer. Even items that did not feature on the list were generating a great deal of heat. But, like any good host, I wanted to make my guests feel entirely comfortable. Now there was a catch to this little endeavour as well. For example, I desperately wanted to invite a man I have had the biggest fangirl crush on for years — Girish Karnad. But he'd defiantly gone and eaten beef in public! Naughty, naughty! I was not sure whether he'd be arrested and fined if he came to our home — what if there were particles of undigested beef still in his system? Would we also face a jail term for indirect possession of beef on our premises?

I would have loved to include my neighbours, who are god-fearing Maharashtrians — they do love dahi missal and ussal as much as I do, but they prefer kothimbeer vada to vada pav, as they find the former less lethal in terms of calories. However, by saying so they didn't want to attract the ire of… of… never mind. I decided to serve poha — it's pretty inoffensive and neutral. I have fantastic Gujarati friends who wondered whether or not to bring a batch of homecooked theplas and dhoklas with them. They are checking the official gazette and looking for the latest government notifications on the subject. My Punjabi friends are totally unconcerned about all these issues and have told me samosas are universally loved snacks which are still being sold at multiplex theatres. They counted the number of multiplexes — Mumbai has 20, and there are another 90 across Maharashtra . That's a whole lot of samosas being consumed in Maharashtra. They also told me it's safe to offer samosas to guests, along with other locally approved snacks, like tacos and pizzas. I am not at all convinced. But don't know whom to check with. Try phoning the Mantralaya — someone or the other will answer the phone eventually, my friends suggested. It's always better to be extra-cautious… you never know who's peeping into your dustbin to check what you've been eating.

Next, I called my friends from Kerala and asked whether they'd be free to join us, even if the menu was likely to be really, really restricted. They jumped at the offer, since their cook had left in a huff after he was told he couldn't cook his speciality any longer — the sukka poterchi (dry beef), which along with appam and ishtew, were house specialities. Oh-Oh. I figured a handi of Hyderabadi biryani would be the perfect delicacy to serve, but a well-meaning friend discouraged me, saying it might be better to cook vaangi masaley bhaat instead. "One must celebrate local cuisine and encourage others to do the same. Unless we support our own specialities and display our culinary pride openly, our recipes will vanish and our food won't get the notice it deserves, despite being the best. Just like our movies." Point taken.

We had a little chat with Anil, our cook-in-residence, and asked him for alternatives. Being a Bengali from Kolkata, he didn't feel terribly confident about last-minute experimentation. He asked in all seriousness whether maach has also been banned in Maharashtra. We assured him that wasn't the case, and told him it was annoying to see how this great and good state of ours was being defamed by outsiders jealous of Maharashtra's success. Anil cheered up (if you want to cheer up any true-blue Bengali, all you have to do is mention that magic word — maach!). "What about mangsho?" he asked. He had heard in his locality that mutton was likely to be banned soon. "Rumours. Nasty rumours. It's just rival states attempting to get our goat (s), that's all!" we told him. I announced with a big smile, "And you know what? Eggs are still allowed. So why not make a spicy anda curry?" Anil looked witheringly at me: "Anda curry? At a party? Never!"

Suddenly, I had a brainwave. Personally speaking, I love vegetarian food. Why not a strictly vegetarian dinner? There were anxious faces around me as someone said, "There is a potential risk. We have to respect local sentiment and not serve anything that could lead to a law and order situation." I assured my family there was zero risk involved in offering shuddh desi shakahaari khaana. Someone rushed to check the latest on it and we began our elimination rounds. Kaddu? Passed. Bhindi? Passed. Pyaaz… umm… please call it kaanda. Passed. Aloo? You mean batata, right? Passed. So, we now had a few veggies to work with, and that was most encouraging. No sambar or avial, please — just stick to amti, I muttered under my breath. And do not refer to 'puris' as 'luchis'. As for dessert (just or otherwise), our best bet was apoos amba. Non-controversial, in season and Maharashtra's pride to boot. What? Weren't the mango crops damaged this year? Err, yes. No farmer suicides over mangoes, right? After much heartburn and heartache, and hours of soul searching, we reluctantly decided to cancel the party. Our friends were most disappointed. But we told them, we must sacrifice something for the sake of the State. Like I have done. Read my lips: No more popcorn.

DISCLAIMER : Views expressed above are the author's own.

08.21 | 0 komentar | Read More

The nine Raju men convicted

1.

Vadlamani Srinivas: Chief financial officer, Satyam

He worked closely with the brothers in inflating company's books. Srinivas quit soon after scam came to light, blamed firm's external auditors — PricewaterhouseCoopers — along with Ramalinga, for perpetrating the fraud. Rumours said he attempted suicide. His statement kept him out of trouble for a while, but the law soon caught up with him. Arrested on charges of cheating, he was granted bail along with the brothers.

2.

Prabhakar Gupta: Global head, Satyam's internal audit team

He failed to brief audit panel of irregularities in company's books. CBI said Gupta connived with the Rajus by not raising an alarm over accounts being inflated. He did not stand up to the Rajus when they denied access of software highlighting irregularities for an independent audit. He is banned for life by ICAI.

3.

B Rama Raju, brother: MD, Satyam Computers

This younger sibling, together with Raju Sr, was at the forefront of the financial fraud and even "hid the deception from the company's board, senior managers and auditors", said the probe. A primary accused, he was arrested soon after scam came to light. He got bail in October, 2012.

4.

S Gopalakrishnan and Srinivas Talluri: Former senior partners of PWC (India)

The firm that audited Satyam between 2001 and 2008. The duo was charged with colluding with Satyam founder. The US Securities and Exchange Commission penalized PwCIndia, accused it of not following basic audit procedures. Firm was asked to cough up $7.5 million in fine. The two were banned for life by Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. Their special leave petitions filed in apex court were also dismissed.

5.

Suryanarayana Raju (3rd from top), brother: Chief, SRSR Holdings Private Ltd

His firm laundered assets of crime's proceeds. He managed to stay out of jail and even after his arrest, quickly secured bail. He has been trying to restart his family's realty business.

6.

G Ramakrishna, VP, Finance, Venkatapathi Raju, CH Srisailam, Finance managers

They are ex-employees of Satyam Computers who helped create false invoices to hoodwink stakeholders.

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08.21 | 0 komentar | Read More

Why India is in hurry to buy Rafale jets

India will now negotiate direct purchase of 36 Rafale jets from France through a government-to-government deal worth around $4 billion, without any "Make in India" or technology transfer component, to meet IAF's urgent "critical operational necessity" for new fighters.After Modi held extensive talks with French President Francois Hollande in Paris on Friday, it was announced that fresh commercial negotiations will now be held for the direct acquisition of two Rafale squadrons (each has 18 jets) in "flyaway" condition. Here is why India was in a hurry to buy Rafale jets:

1.

IAF down to 34 squadrons

Indian Air Force is down to 34 squadrons where as it requires 44 squadrons to be at ease against China and Pakistan.

2.

Obsolete MiG-21s and MiG-27s

IAF's operational 34 squadrons include obsolete MiG-21s & MiG-27s, which are slated for retirement from 2017 onwards.

3.

Serviceability issue with Sukhoi-30MKIs

Serviceability of even new Sukhoi-30MKIs (200 inducted of 272 contracted for $12 billion) is just about 55%.

4.

Huge delay in Tejas project

There has been huge delay in operationalization of India's indigenous Tejas light combat aircraft. Still, the final operational clearance for Tejas Mark-I is unlikely by December 2015. Tejas Mark-II will be ready only by 2021-2022.

5.

Delay in 5th-Gen fighter jets

The Final R&D contract for joint development of Russian 5th-Gen fighter jets is yet to be inked.

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08.21 | 0 komentar | Read More

Blog: Guess what’s on the menu…

I was jauntily planning to host a dinner party at our home before the summer holidays set in. This is not as uncomplicated and easy as it sounds. Food being a really sensitive issue these days, my menu was giving me sleepless nights and getting rather restricted. So many of my favourite dishes fell under the list of banned food items. And the list was getting longer and longer. Even items that did not feature on the list were generating a great deal of heat. But, like any good host, I wanted to make my guests feel entirely comfortable. Now there was a catch to this little endeavour as well. For example, I desperately wanted to invite a man I have had the biggest fangirl crush on for years — Girish Karnad. But he'd defiantly gone and eaten beef in public! Naughty, naughty! I was not sure whether he'd be arrested and fined if he came to our home — what if there were particles of undigested beef still in his system? Would we also face a jail term for indirect possession of beef on our premises?

I would have loved to include my neighbours, who are god-fearing Maharashtrians — they do love dahi missal and ussal as much as I do, but they prefer kothimbeer vada to vada pav, as they find the former less lethal in terms of calories. However, by saying so they didn't want to attract the ire of… of… never mind. I decided to serve poha — it's pretty inoffensive and neutral. I have fantastic Gujarati friends who wondered whether or not to bring a batch of homecooked theplas and dhoklas with them. They are checking the official gazette and looking for the latest government notifications on the subject. My Punjabi friends are totally unconcerned about all these issues and have told me samosas are universally loved snacks which are still being sold at multiplex theatres. They counted the number of multiplexes — Mumbai has 20, and there are another 90 across Maharashtra . That's a whole lot of samosas being consumed in Maharashtra. They also told me it's safe to offer samosas to guests, along with other locally approved snacks, like tacos and pizzas. I am not at all convinced. But don't know whom to check with. Try phoning the Mantralaya — someone or the other will answer the phone eventually, my friends suggested. It's always better to be extra-cautious… you never know who's peeping into your dustbin to check what you've been eating.

Next, I called my friends from Kerala and asked whether they'd be free to join us, even if the menu was likely to be really, really restricted. They jumped at the offer, since their cook had left in a huff after he was told he couldn't cook his speciality any longer — the sukka poterchi (dry beef), which along with appam and ishtew, were house specialities. Oh-Oh. I figured a handi of Hyderabadi biryani would be the perfect delicacy to serve, but a well-meaning friend discouraged me, saying it might be better to cook vaangi masaley bhaat instead. "One must celebrate local cuisine and encourage others to do the same. Unless we support our own specialities and display our culinary pride openly, our recipes will vanish and our food won't get the notice it deserves, despite being the best. Just like our movies." Point taken.

We had a little chat with Anil, our cook-in-residence, and asked him for alternatives. Being a Bengali from Kolkata, he didn't feel terribly confident about last-minute experimentation. He asked in all seriousness whether maach has also been banned in Maharashtra. We assured him that wasn't the case, and told him it was annoying to see how this great and good state of ours was being defamed by outsiders jealous of Maharashtra's success. Anil cheered up (if you want to cheer up any true-blue Bengali, all you have to do is mention that magic word — maach!). "What about mangsho?" he asked. He had heard in his locality that mutton was likely to be banned soon. "Rumours. Nasty rumours. It's just rival states attempting to get our goat (s), that's all!" we told him. I announced with a big smile, "And you know what? Eggs are still allowed. So why not make a spicy anda curry?" Anil looked witheringly at me: "Anda curry? At a party? Never!"

Suddenly, I had a brainwave. Personally speaking, I love vegetarian food. Why not a strictly vegetarian dinner? There were anxious faces around me as someone said, "There is a potential risk. We have to respect local sentiment and not serve anything that could lead to a law and order situation." I assured my family there was zero risk involved in offering shuddh desi shakahaari khaana. Someone rushed to check the latest on it and we began our elimination rounds. Kaddu? Passed. Bhindi? Passed. Pyaaz… umm… please call it kaanda. Passed. Aloo? You mean batata, right? Passed. So, we now had a few veggies to work with, and that was most encouraging. No sambar or avial, please — just stick to amti, I muttered under my breath. And do not refer to 'puris' as 'luchis'. As for dessert (just or otherwise), our best bet was apoos amba. Non-controversial, in season and Maharashtra's pride to boot. What? Weren't the mango crops damaged this year? Err, yes. No farmer suicides over mangoes, right? After much heartburn and heartache, and hours of soul searching, we reluctantly decided to cancel the party. Our friends were most disappointed. But we told them, we must sacrifice something for the sake of the State. Like I have done. Read my lips: No more popcorn.

DISCLAIMER : Views expressed above are the author's own.

08.21 | 0 komentar | Read More

Why India is in hurry to buy Rafale jets

India will now negotiate direct purchase of 36 Rafale jets from France through a government-to-government deal worth around $4 billion, without any "Make in India" or technology transfer component, to meet IAF's urgent "critical operational necessity" for new fighters.After Modi held extensive talks with French President Francois Hollande in Paris on Friday, it was announced that fresh commercial negotiations will now be held for the direct acquisition of two Rafale squadrons (each has 18 jets) in "flyaway" condition. Here is why India was in a hurry to buy Rafale jets:

1.

IAF down to 34 squadrons

Indian Air Force is down to 34 squadrons where as it requires 44 squadrons to be at ease against China and Pakistan.

2.

Obsolete MiG-21s and MiG-27s

IAF's operational 34 squadrons include obsolete MiG-21s & MiG-27s, which are slated for retirement from 2017 onwards.

3.

Serviceability issue with Sukhoi-30MKIs

Serviceability of even new Sukhoi-30MKIs (200 inducted of 272 contracted for $12 billion) is just about 55%.

4.

Huge delay in Tejas project

There has been huge delay in operationalization of India's indigenous Tejas light combat aircraft. Still, the final operational clearance for Tejas Mark-I is unlikely by December 2015. Tejas Mark-II will be ready only by 2021-2022.

5.

Delay in 5th-Gen fighter jets

The Final R&D contract for joint development of Russian 5th-Gen fighter jets is yet to be inked.

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08.20 | 0 komentar | Read More