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VOLUME 1
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PA R L I A M E N T A R I A N S
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J A N U A RY 2 0 1 2
Lawmakers on the tiger trail
FROM THE DESK OF THE ADVISORY BOARD
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Shobana Bhartia, MP & Member of Editorial Advisory Board, Central Hall
in a number of countries, including in West Asia. But let us look closer home for a start. A number of measures have been taken despite disruptions in Parliament and a war of words among political formations. The food security bill has been introduced and I hope it will go through without much delay. We also saw a very active judiciary putting even the high and the mighty in the land behind bars on issues that have exercised the nation enormously. The 2G scam is yet to be resolved, but I am sure that the way things are proceeding, this will also work itself out in a manner that will be acceptable to all in this year.
t gives me great pleasure to write in the New Year issue of this very valuable magazine Central Hall. The year that has gone by was momentous in more ways than one. If I go on recounting the events, I probably will not be able We cannot get away from the Lokpal issue to finish this article. For a start, India joined as that has occupied our mind-space for the the UN Security council as a non-permanent greater part of last year, and I am certain, will member. This is something India has long do so for a considerable period of this year as wanted and has come to be. well. A strong Lokpal is in the greater good of The world economy is going through a period the nation. There are many who may be a little of uncertainty. The economic uncertainty in 2011 peeved with the manner in which Team Anna is structurally and fundamentally different from has gone about in pushing for this particular what the world had witnessed in 2008. What legislation. And indeed, there is merit in happens in the global economy will necessarily suggesting that the means don’t justify the ends. have consequences for India and the rest of the After all, the prime minister himself has taken emerging economies. the first step in signaling his willingness for his office to be included in this legislation. But I would like to delve on some important issues which matter to the nation at large. What I can only hope that the New Year which has may seem as a conflict between the government begun with some measure of hope will bring and the people, in many more countries than about the changes that India needs. ours, seems to me, a portentous development. I would like to end on this with the wish that It looks to me as something which may we are in for much better times this year. A very bring in a new system of governance altogether happy new year to all our readers.
(Central Hall will have one member of the Advisory Board writing to us every month in the above space.)
Members of the Editorial Advisory Board
Shahid Siddiqui, Former MP
Dr. Chandan Mitra, MP
Dr. Bharatkumar Raut, MP
D Raja, MP
Hannan Mollah, Former MP
M. Mohan, MP
Vijay J Darda, MP
Rajiv Pratap Rudy, MP
Madhu Goud Yaskhi, MP
Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, MP
H.K Dua, MP
Balbir Punj, MP
INSIDE 2 Making a difference
Interview with Dr. Yogendra P Trivedi, MP
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The Wining Stroke
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Riding for the Tiger cause
Cricket Match: Parliamentarians’ XI vs Media XI Parliamentarians’ Car Rally, 2011
COVER PHOTO: CCI OFFICIAL RECORDS, CAR RALLY, 2011; BACK COVER: KAMAL MORARKA, FORMER MP
Your feedback about the magazine is valuable. We would be glad to incorporate your suggestions and publish your write-up. Please write to us or e-mail: at editor@centralhall.in
For subscription contact: circulation@ centralhall.in Ph:23711849, 23327337 For business development please contact: Sanil Kumar at marketing@centralhall.in
The Constitution Club of India, 3, Rafi Marg, New Delhi 110001 Ph: 23711849, 23327337; email: editor@centralhall.in; www.constclub.com, www.centralhall.in
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Rajeev Shukla MoS for Parliamentary Affairs
Arvind Kumar (Manager) Santosh K Joy (Sr. Research Associate) Chinju Dev (Research Associate) Farhana Yasmin (Research Associate) Madhu Sen (Review Editor) Ravi Kapoor (Editorial Assistance) Ekta Purohit (Administrative Assistant) Design Anando Dutta Meghna Baruah
INTERVIEW
Making a difference An advocate, financial expert and lawmaker, Rajya Sabha MP from Maharashtra Dr. Yogendra P Trivedi shares his views with Central Hall’s research associates, Chinju Dev and Ekta Purohit. Q. Your transformation from advocate to an MP? Dr. Trivedi: Well, I’m still an advocate. I’m practicing. My one leg is in my profession and one in politics. I’m very active in politics and my profession. I’m still based in Mumbai and I appear there in high court for serious matters. Q. You are also a financial expert. Your comment about India’s development in financial and economic sectors since independence? Dr. Trivedi: It is a very large subject and I can’t summarize that in a very short span of time. But I agree with what Meghnad Desai used to say. India is some times an example of opportunities lost. Today, we are in a good situation. The growth rate is very good. But because of the political uncertainties and because of not taking proper decisions at the right time we are loosing opportunities. Recently, Deepak Parekh said there is a flight of capital outside the country. The industrial houses are also trying to invest abroad. The foreign investment has also slowed down. All that is because we are not following consistency, some times we take decisions and again go back into a shell. I don’t know, it is all thinking in retrospect. Some times I feel that a Presidential system of government would have been far better than the Westminster style of government. Because then as it is happening in America, the people who are taking decisions and laying down the policy are not necessarily been from the Parliament. They can be officers; they may be experts in their own field. Here we take opinions only from the Members of Parliament. Politically, today the biggest threat is corruption and black money - black money in the country and black money outside the country. I got definite notions about both. How to retrieve this money put them back into the channel and regulation, that is a long story.
which you are working. It is a way self-derogatory. And I think we are reaching there sometimes. Today, we have people and especially children whom we can’t look after. In Delhi and in Mumbai you can see so many slums. What is the use of building airports and big houses when there are so many people squatting on the road? So we should once again rethink. China has got one child policy. We can at least implement two children policy with a great emphasis by giving physical incentives. It may be voluntary thing. Now everybody seems to have forgotten about family planning. Population is going beyond reach. More population without resources means we are increasing misery. So a definite economic policy which involves also decisions in social life, decisions in our health, education etc, is required. Today, sometimes we feel that we are bubbling as a country and not moving in any definite direction with speed.
Q. You are working with some sports clubs. Share some details about your work in those clubs and your interest in sports? Dr. Trivedi: I’m the President of JK Sports Foundation. We are the first people to give money for the Himalayan car rally. We have supported tennis. We have supported aquatic events and used to support athletic meets which used to take place in Mumbai especially the inter-school athletic meet. Q. Your opinion about the Constitution Club of India? Dr. Trivedi: The facilities which the Club offers is the best in its class. The idea to start refreshment facilities and restaurants is also a good initiative.
Q. Price rise is also a burden on the common man. Your suggestions for tackling this issue? Dr. Trivedi: See when you are progressing you need capital which might come by a way of an inflow from outside. American economy miracle is lively and felt because of sufficient flow of capital from outside America. So we have to have capital and then sometimes it is necessary for the growth rate that you have to pump in more money in the system. So slight inflation in the cost, is what one has to pay for the economic growth. But if inflation grows beyond certain limit, then it doesn’t serve the purpose for 5
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ARTICLE
Republic Day
When the public got its voice
Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of Independent India, in his special message to his countrymen, on the birth of the Indian Republic, said: “We must re-dedicate ourselves on this day to the peaceful but sure realization of the dream that had inspired the Father of our Nation and the other captains and soldiers of our freedom struggle, the dream of establishing a classless, co-operative, free and happy society in ‘his country’. We must remember that this is more a day of dedications than of rejoicing - dedication to the glorious task of making the peasants and workers the toilers and the thinkers fully free, happy and cultured.” Lahore session of the Indian National Congress at the midnight of 31st December 1929. The session was held under the presidency of Pandit. Jawahar Lal Nehru. Those present in the meeting took a pledge to mark January 26 as “Independence Day” in order to march towards realizing the dream of complete independence from the British. It was decided that January 26, 1930 would be observed as the Purna Swaraj (complete Independence) Day. Many Indian political parties and Indian revolutionaries from
all over the country united to observe the day with honour and pride. The Indian Constituent Assembly, which was constituted as a result of the negotiations between the Indian leaders and members of the British Cabinet Mission, had its first meeting on December 9, 1946. The objective of the Assembly was to give India a constitution, which would serve a lasting purpose and hence appointed a number of committees to thoroughly research the various aspects
C. Rajagopalachari, His Excellency the Governor-General in a broadcast talk from the Delhi Station of All-India Radio on Jan 26, 1950 said: “On the eve of my laying down office, with the inauguration of the Republic, I should like to tender my greetings and best wishes to the men and women of India who will henceforth be a citizen of a republic. I feel deeply thankful for the affection showered on me by all sections of the people, which alone enabled me to bear the burden of an office to the duties and conventions of which I had been an utter stranger.”
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of the proposed constitution. The recommendations were discussed, debated and revised many times before the Indian Constitution was finalized and officially adopted three years later on November 26, 1949. India enjoyed the true spirit of Independence on January 26, 1950 when the Constitution of India finally came into force. The Constitution gave the citizens of India the power to govern themselves by choosing their own government. Dr. Rajendra Prasad, took oath as the first President of India at the Durbar Hall in the Government House and this was followed by the Presidential drive along a five-mile route to the Irwin Stadium. Ever since the historic day, January 26 is celebrated with festivities and patriotic fervour all around the country. Source: www.india.gov.in
PHOTO SIBI SEBASTIAN
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hough India became a free nation on August 15, 1947, it declared itself a Sovereign, Democratic and Republic state with the adoption of the Constitution on January 26, 1950; 894 days after our country became a dominion following withdrawal of British Rule. A salute of 21 guns and the unfurling of the Indian National Flag by Dr. Rajendra Prasad heralded the historic birth of the Indian Republic on that day. Since then, every year the day is celebrated with great pride and happiness all over the nation. The transition of India from a British colony to a sovereign, secular, and democratic nation was indeed historical. It was a long journey of around two decades that started with the conceptualisation of the dream in 1930 to its actual realization in 1950. The seeds of a republican nation were sowed at the
ARTICLE
When India turned a Republic, certain protocol rules and regulations were to be followed as a sequel to the Independence. In this connection, some letters were issued by the Home Ministry in accordance with that on the republic day which gave birth to the Indian republic.
A COPY FROM THE COLLECTION OF CDR. K V SINGH (RETD), FLAG FOUNDATION OF INDIA
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CRICKET MATCH
The Winning Stroke
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n a detour from the routine of media chasing the politician’s news, it was the turn for the political fraternity to the chase the target set by the media team on the grounds. A friendly one-day match between the Parliamentarian’s XI and Media XI on September 17 saw the who’s who of Delhi turn out at the Modern School grounds. MPs wielded the willow setting aside their busy routine while some editors gave a miss to their newsroom grind to come together for this annual event organised by the Constitution Club of India. The team of MPs was captained by Member of Parliament from Hamirpur, former Ranji Trophy player Anurag Singh Thakur. The MPs team already had an impressive line-up comprising of Indian world cup winning team member Kirti Azad. The media side was captained by Rajdeep Sardesai and included Deepak Chaurasia among others. Constitution Club’s Secretary (Administration) Rajiv Pratap Rudy donned the cap of commentator for the day.
Parliamentarians XI
Media XI
Anurag Singh Thakur, MP (Capt.) Satyavrat Chaturvedi, MP Kirti Azad, MP Neeraj Shekhar, MP Jayant Chaudhary, MP Kamlesh Paswan, MP Shiv Kumar, MP Kayesh Baig, Wasim Ahmed, Ex-MP Dushyant Singh, MP Rajiv Pratap Rudy, MP M.P Singh, MP (wk) Madhu Goud Yaskhi, MP Sanjay Singh, MP Ashok Tanwar, MP Sandeep Dikshit, MP
Rajdeep Sardesai, CNN-IBN (Capt.) Sumit Awasthi, AAJ TAK Ashu Saxena, Punjab Today Vikas Bhadauria, StarNews Mithilesh, India TV Roshan Kumar, Sahara News Rakesh Jha, CNN-IBN Rahul Kanwal, Headlines Today Vikrant Singh, NDTV Raman Kumar, News 24 Chirag Gothi, AAJ TAK Manish Chibber, Indian Express Bilal Zaidi, News X Dinesh Chandra, CNBC
Sanjay Kumar and N.P Singh were umpires; S.K Tiwari was the scorer; Chirag Gothi was adjudged the best batsman, and the best bowler was Shiv Kumar, MP. Anurag Singh Thakur, MP, bagged the Man of the Match trophy.
Kirti Azad at the crease.
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Rahul Kanwal sweeps round the corner.
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Chirag Gothi in action
CRICKET MATCH
The Parliamentarians team rejoice with the winner’s trophy.
Batting for friendship A friendly game builds bridges. What better a game than a cricket match which our entire nation is passionate about. Here we have tried to build bridge between the two fraternities whose association is very mutual and vital. A journalist and politician cannot avoid each other and have to be together come what may because we both help and compliment each other in our daily routine. When we are reporting, we report on politicians on their stories fairly and fearlessly but on the cricket ground we learn to be friendly for a while and try to understand each other. It is also about trying to understand different facets of each other’s personality. The point here is that, as far as our job responsibilities go, we cannot be friends but we are certainly not enemies. Friendly cricket matches between media and politicians have a long-standing history. It used to exist long before and was revived recently in the last couple of years by the elected body of parliamentarian’s governing council at the Constitution Club of India (CCI). I appreciate the efforts of the office bearer MPs Rajiv Pratap Rudy Secretary
(Administration), Sandeep Dikshit Secretary(Culture) and Naveen Jindal Secretary (Sports) led by the Lok Sabha Speaker who has taken special drives like this to encourage interaction between media and the political class of the country. The gymnasium and other facilities at CCI are world-class and I look forward to visit it as often as possible. I have played first class cricket for Mumbai and also for the Oxford University but this game of playing against our own MPs is very special. I always try and take time out for such activities. The mind wants it but the body does not allow after a day-long hectic schedule. I am happy to have taken a day out to be with my media colleagues and MPs at the grounds playing a friendly match.
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Rajdeep Sardesai Editor-in-chief, IBN18 Network
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CRICKET MATCH
...on level playing field
Parliamentarians XI and Media XI back to the pavilion Media XI with their trophy
Rajiv Pratap Rudy, MP and Secretary (Administration) CCI, comments on the match proceedings.
Mrs. Lata Vaidyanathan, Principal, Modern School, presenting a memento to Syed Shanawaz Hussain MP
Anurag Singh Thakur, MP and captain of the Parliamenarian’s XI sharing his views with the press.
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EXHIBITION
In ‘Wild’ pursuit ‘You do not take a picture, the picture takes you.’ Visitors at the display of photographs. The photogapher with Hon’ble Hamid Ansari, Vice President.
‘Wildlife photography requires patience. A good camera with a sophisticated lens and an eye for detail does the job for a photographer.’
“When you are in the middle of a jungle and all is silent around you and you look up from the camera straight into the blazing eyes of a tiger staring at you from across 15 feet on a dirt track you know what these words by Henri Cartier Bresson means,” said Kamal. M. Morarka, former union minister and Vice-president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). The amazing diversity of India’s depleting wild populace comes alive through the camera of politician, social worker and industrialist Kamal Morarka. His exhibition of wildlife photographs, ‘On the Nature’s Trail: A Photographic Journey by Kamal Morarka’, featuring over 50 images from India and Africa, was organized at the Lalit Kala Akademi from 7th to 12th December, 2011. The exhibition was inaugurated by Dr. Karan Singh, MP, in the presence of famous politicians like Mani Shankar Aiyar, Sharad Yadav, Ajay Maken, Jaswant Singh, Jaya Jaitley and Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi. It was earlier exhibited in Mumbai. Kamal. M. Morarka began live photography in 1995 at the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, now known as Keoladeo National Park, after his term in parliament ended in 1994. Since then, he has been visiting wildlife parks two to three times a year with his camera. “I am trying to spread the message of wildlife conservation - especially tigers. The proceeds from the exhibition will be donated to the ‘Save the Tiger’ initiative,” he said. Morarka is Chairman of the Sariska Tiger Foundation, Rajasthan, which is working to re-locate tigers to Sariska.
Kamal M Morarka, former MP
Lawmakers at the inauguration
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CAR RALLY
Riding for the jungle king
Hon’ble Vice President, Hamid Ansari and Rajiv Pratap Rudy, MP admiring a vintage car
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ne of the most sought after social event in the lawmaker’s fraternity is the annual car rally organised by the Constitution Club of India (CCI) and this time it was bigger and better with more participation and fun. Last year our parliamentarians drove to convey the message of safe driving and this time it was to save our tigers. With Aircel as the presenting partner and JK Tyre as the title sponsor, the annual Parliamentarian’s Car rally was flagged off by Hon’ble Vice President of India, Hamid Ansari from the premises of the Constitution Club of India. A calendar brought out by Aircel on Tiger was also released before the flag off. Hon’ble Vice President was introduced to the drivers and navigators of the rally by CCI Treasurer Hannan Mollah and Secretaries Rajiv Pratap Rudy and Naveen Jindal. The event was put together under the guidance of the elected body of CCI office bearers by an organising committee for the event with Thomas Sangma, MP as convener and V P Singh Badnore as co-convenor. The participants were given away the laurels by Union Minister for environment and forests Jayanthi Natarajan. The day started with the impressive line-up of the vintage and classic cars at the Club’s portico. To promote the event theme, it was none other than ace football player and Save Tiger ambassador Baichung Bhutia who was present on the occasion amid an array of children from the Kids for Tiger team. The event had an impressive participation from media members and diplomats apart from parliamentarians and their family. The rally concluded at hotel Taj Palace followed by a musical afternoon. In total around 70 parliamentarians along with their families participated in the annual rally. Agatha Sangma, the youngest union minister bagged the Best Woman Driver Award. Her brother James Sangma, MLA was on her side as the navigator. The august attendance also had the advantage of witnessing a breathtaking presentation on the might and beauty of our national animal tiger by Valmik Thapar, tiger conservationist. Prerna Bindra, expert and advisor with the MP’s Save Tiger forum of CCI also addressed the audience on the importance of the issue. The audience at the concluding ceremony witnessed some scintillating performance by singer Sona Mahapatra. An impressive bubble dance accompanied by foreign artiste Dreamy Sax made the afternoon livelier. Jayanthi Natarajan, Minister of State (Independent charge) for Environment and Forests, gave away the prizes to the winners in various categories. MP from Jharkhand, Nishikant Dubey and his wife Anukant, won the Best Couple Driver Trophy. Anil H Lad,Rajya Sabha MP from Karnataka, was the best performer among the politicians.
Hon’ble Vice President, Hamid Ansari flagging off the rally
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CAR RALLY
CISF band plays for the Tiger cause
Satyavrat Chaturvedi, MP addressing the participants before the car rally
Anurag Singh Thakur, MP and Ninong Ering, MP
Rally rules: participants in rapt attention (L to R): V P Singh Badnore, MP & Co-Convener, Car Rally 2011, Sandeep Dikshit, MP & Secretary (Culture), CCI, Hannan Mollah, Former MP & treasurer, CCI and Rajiv Pratap Rudy, MP & Secretary (Administration), CCI
Water hole of the rallyists
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Baichung Bhutia drives for the Tiger
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CAR RALLY
Recharging the Spirits
MIlena Santana Ramirez, Ambassador of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezula with the “Best Diplomat” trophy
Vikas Bhadauria and his navigator recieving the winner’s trophy Nishikant Dubey, MP and Mrs Anukant Dubey adjudged the “Best couple”
Rajat Sharma, Chief Editor, India TV
(R to L) Dr. Sanjay Jaiswal, MP, Dr. Sanjay Sinh, MP and Helen Davidson, MP amongst the eminent audience at the Awards Ceremony
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Anil H Lad, MP and his team with the second winners’ trophy
V P Singh Badanore, MP and co-convenor of the Car Rally, and his family receiving the third winners’ trophy
Hon’ble Minister Jayanthi Natrajan giving away the fourth winners’ cup to IBN CNN correspondent Meetu Jain
Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Environment & Forests Jayanti Natrajan congratulating Agatha Sangma, Union Minister of State for Rural Development after presenting the “Best Woman performer” trophy
P K Singh of Doordarshan and his family with the fifth winners’ cup ‘Dreamy Sax’ Russian artists performing at the evening do
Singer Sona Mohapatra and group regaling the audience
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CAR RALLY
Save our Tiger
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would like to congratulate all my colleague, diplomats and people from civil society ,all those who are wild life enthusiastic who are showing and helping me to find the way in my ministry to do the best I can because as I keep telling them but I need them because its very steep learning curve from me. I would also like to congratulate Mr. Rudy and his colleagues for this magnificent effort, it’s just not a tribute for the cause of tiger and insistence from Mr. Rudy that I should be here. The entire issue is something of fundamental importance. The tiger is the symbol of our national pride, as it’s our national animal, absolutely magnificent creature. We are proud because more than half of the populations of tiger in the world are in India. It is our duty as citizen of this country to protect our tiger. The existence of the tiger and habitat of the tiger are absolute indicators of our health of our ecosystem because the tiger occupy the habitats that indicate how healthy our ecosystem is and particularly the water resources. It is a matter of priority with my ministry. I would also like to congratulate JK-tyre and Aircel having sponsored the event. I am very pleased to see that corporates have come forward to sponsor such an event which throws light upon tigers. It is matter of pride and thanks to pioneering efforts of so many people before me that India at present has maximum number of wild tigers and their habitat among the tiger countries in the world. We recently released, soon after I took over, the latest outcome of the country level tiger assessment using refined methodology and country level status estimated is around one thousand seven hundred and six (1706) which is an increase of almost 20% in tiger numbers and there’s photo capture of 625 unique tigers from different sites across the country. We are now in
the process of carrying out intensive monitoring of tiger reserves using camera caps and other methods throughout the year. But the back-log is far from one and the tiger continues to be critically endangered. Ever increasing human population, demand on forest resources, habitat shrinkage and poaching are some of the most vital and major threats. Tiger is more valuable alive than dead and the only way we can do this is by making people understand how beautiful the tiger is and how important it is to our ecosystem and also to encourage sustainable eco-tourism where the revenue from the tourism goes to the local people that those local people protect the tiger and make sure that nothing ever happens. Project Tiger is one of the most important flagship programs of my ministry and in August we got the approval of the government to provide good allocation, its not just the allocation it the creation of a tiger protection force but the money is also important for the voluntary relocation for those who want to move out and we have raised the money and this one will create the inviolate space we need for tiger and we have also raised the compensation for animal- conflict from 1lakh to 2 lakh in case of loss of life. Its a collective responsibility of not only in state and central government but diplomats, civil society, every single Indian. I think it is extremely symbolic and important that the wide cross section of civil society, of diplomats and parliamentarian have gathered here today and done me a great honour to my position by inviting me to be here today I can only say in return that I would strain every nerve to see what I can do to improve, to make sure that the program of protecting Project Tiger is implemented in letter and spirit. Extracts from the speech of Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Environment and Forests, Jayanthi Natarajan
CCI marks the beginning of a new forum of Parliamentarians who are working for the protection of the tiger and its habitat in India. The forum is responsible for saving the tiger as it is one of the most rare and endangered species of the world. A team headed by Chandan Mitra, MP (Convenor) and Dr. Bharat Kumar Raut, MP (Coconvenor) lead the CCI initiative. Members of the CCI Parliamentarians’ Forum on Tiger with the Union Minister of State for Environment and Forests. Jayanthi Natarajan
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CAR RALLY
Prerna Bindra, Wild-life expert addressing the gathering
Tiger conservationist - Valmiki Thapar, addressing the audience
The “Jungle King” on wheels
May the ‘Roar’ get loud Our national animal- the Tiger, is fighting for its life. From around 40,000 at the turn of the last century, there are very few wild tigers left in India today (1750 as per the Tiger Census 2010). The figure was 1411 as per the Tiger Census 2008. Saving tigers is vital not just because it’s our national animal but also because saving the tiger means saving our forests, which means not just clean air but also water security as these are the source of 600 pure rivers in the country. In addition, healthy forests mean potential employment in the green cottage sector.
Threats to tigers fall into 2 categories.
1. Poaching, which includes the illegal trade of tiger parts 2. Habitat loss and fragmentation, from illegal mining, construction and encroachment in forests
Actions to Save Our Tigers 1. From poaching • • • •
Fill up forest guard vacancies Provide right training and equipment to forests guards Set up armed tiger protection force Ensure stricter enforcement of wildlife laws
• • •
Keep core areas intact and inviolate Proper rehabilitation of villages outside core areas Conservation of critical tiger corridors and protection of buffer zones
2. From habitat destruction
Project Tiger was set up in 1973 in India, with the objective to protect the big cats in our country. There are 39 Tiger Reserves in India.
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Hon’ble Vice President Hamid Ansari releasing the calendar dedicated to ‘Save our Tiger.’ On the extreme left is JK Tyres President and Director, A K Bajoria, at the centre is AIRCEL Chief Marketing Officer Rahul Sehgal
Naveen Jindal, MP & Secretary (Sports), CCI Car rally is one of the many ways of expressing solidarity of Parliamentarians to matters of concern like protecting and preserving our national animal-the tiger. Rajiv Pratap Rudy, MP & Secretary (Administration), CCI Tiger is our national animal and CCI the body of parliamentarians taking up this cause for this year’s car rally is manifestation of the concern we strongly feel about the issue. Vikas Bhadouria, Media Participant and 1st winner Car rally once over, we can always have a second one. But tigers once extinct, we won’t be having a second chance. Anil H Lad, MP and former forest officer, 2nd winner We expect the government to understand the urgency to provide latest techniques to defend our tigers.
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CAR RALLY
Vintage beauties on the CCI lawns The evolution of cars still holds a sway over us because of the fashion statement it makes and the prestige it gives to its owner. Vintage cars take you to the world of the affluent from the past and their life-styles. An owner of such a classic vehicle is jealously possessive and intensely protective about their prize collection. On the day of the second edition of CCI Parliamentarians Car Rally, Constitution Club of India had decorated vintage beauties in the lawns of Club campus.
Morris Minor 1960
The Morris Minor 1960 model with a 10 HP engine was originally made under the licence from Morris Motors and later the same car came to be known as ‘Baby Hindustan’. This popular car was produced in lacks by Hindustan Motors till the mid sixties. A very popular car, Chevrolet Phaeton Open Tourer 1936 with a 30HP engine holden body was built in 1936 by Chevrolet. Only 500 such cars were manufactured and the first one was owned by the Maharajah of Mehmoodabad. It later came to Delhi in the mid sixties after being neglected in the stables of the erstwhile Rajas and was re-built in the late nineties.
Chevrolet Phaeton Open Tourer 1936
One of the most exquisite and oldest car, Willys Overland 1909 was made in 1909 by the same company that became famous for making Willys Jeeps during the ll World War, it was popular till the mid sixties. The most unique feature of this car is that it can start and run without a battery. The engine has a magneto and the wing and the tail lamps work on ‘kerosene’.
Morgan two-seater sports car 1957
The fourth car also has a very unique story. The car now owned by Capt. Ashok Khosla, is a 1957 Morgan two- seater sports car that can take 110 BHP on the wheel! Morgan always had the philosophy of designing the body and the other parameters of the car, which till-date copy the power plant & drive train from popular car manufacturers. These days they take it from BMW and Ford. In the fifties they used two power plants with its paraphernalia from Triumph and Vauxhall. This car has a 2Lt. Vauxhall Engine, souped up to produce 110 BHP with all modern electronic ignition systems, not forgetting the twin SU carburettors borrowed from a MGB. The author Tutu Dhawan is a Delhi-based auto-analyst and a member of the organising team of Constitution Club’s annual car rally.
Willys Overland 1909
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Parliamentarians celebrate X-mas
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ndo-International Christian Chamber of Commerce (IICCC) had organized the Parliamentarian’s Christmas Celebration, 2011 at big lawn of Constitution Club of India on December 7, 2011. The celebration was chaired by Former Union Minister, Dhanaskodi Athithan. Several Members of Parliament cutting across party lines attended the event. The objective of the programme was to pray that God blesses India to become a prosperous and powerful nation, with peace and harmony among all, and to conveying the message that God’s love for all is irrespective of caste, creed, colour or other distinctions. Pawan Kumar Pansal (Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs), G K Vasan (Union Minister for Shipping), K H Muniyappa (Union Minister of State for Railways), B.
CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION
Narayana Swamy (Union Minister of State for Personnel & Prime Minister’s Office and MPs including Oscar Fernandes, P C Chacko, Jesudas Selam, Charles Dias, P T Thomas, P J Kurian, Mohd Kansal, Mohindar Kumar Rai, Anto Anthony, Helen Davidson, C M Chang, S S Ramasubbu, Mithlesh Kumar, Rishang Kesing, Prof. M S Swaminathan, Shashi Tharoor, K P Dhanebalam, Vasanthi Stanley, Ninong Ering etc. The students of Ryan International School sang Christmas carols, while bishops of various denominations gave the message of love, peace and joy. Earlier in the day, Vincent Pala (Minister of State for Minority Affairs) presented awards to select Christians, who served as role model for the community.
Musical performances marked the celebrations Shashi Tharoor, MP wishes the audience
Members of Parliament with religious heads on the occasion of Parliamentarians’ Christmas celebrations
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QUOTES
Humbling House of ‘Democracy’ Day One in Parliament The portals of democracy has been an enigma for the first timers. Central Hall brings you the experiences of some of the honourable Members on their first day in Parliament.
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t is a very humble feeling when you enter the place which is associated with all time great Indian personalities like Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, C. Rajagopalachary, Anna Dorai and other stalwarts. This makes me feel, that with this great and enormous hold and power to make laws comes even a greater responsibility. The immediate feeling of awe to the size and magnitude of the Indian Parliament being the world’s largest democracy, puts an onus on me to place my efforts and endeavors to tackle the common man’s issues.
Y. S. Chowdary, MP
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Samir Bhujbal, MP
t was a challenge for me to step into the shoes of my father former PM late. Shri. Chandra Shekhar. It gave me all the more reasons to feel responsible and aware of the role I was going to play. I have visited Parliament ever since I was a 4 year-old kid. I have also played in the lawns, we used to enter Central Hall and spent time freely way back since 1972. It was only in 1984 that stricter provisions were made regarding entry. I have longed to be a member of the highest decision making body of the largest democracy. When I was sworn-in, I was told by fellow-members about the aura and respect which my father accommodates. There were many, who told me when he spoke there was pin-drop silence. I have been trying to fulfill the aspiration of people, who elected me by the continuous efforts both in the House and in the constituency. It was my childhood dream to represent my people.
Neeraj Shekhar, MP
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Being a first time MP in Lok Sabha, I’m feeling great pleasure as a Parliamentarian. When I entered the Parliament, I felt that I’m not just representing my constituency but the whole country. There were lot of things flitting across in my mind such as the large number of poor people in our country, we have to feed them, and what I can do for the development of our country. It was a good experience to share our views with senior leaders and interacting with them gives me immense pleasure. I am feeling so proud to be a part of such a huge Parliament.
It is a unique experience, watching what is going on, how the people spoke and represented there constituency. It is lot of fun, looking at the roof of the Parliament. I have grown up in a political family and public work and political activity has always been witnessed by me but it was different to enter the august House as a member. Not just the sense of responsibility but, also an excitement to now be a part of it and there is hard work and I know a lot of expectations are associated with me. I was always excited to understand how the Parliament actually functions. It always interested me to learn how decisions were taken and debates were done and consensus reached amid varied views. I’m learning it first hand and I take pride in it.
Jayant Choudhary, MP
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BOOK RELEASE
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ongratulating the poet, Shadan Ahmad at the launch of her collection of poems in English, ‘Virtuous Sin’ published by Har Anand Publication, film actor Hema Malini said, “Poets are sensitive people who understand pain and also know how to celebrate life. Ms. Ahmad is a woman who has observed the pain and joy of life at close quarters, and every poem in the book is a reflection of herself.” The honesty and the range of emotions expressed through the poems drew appreciation for from all including Mahesh Bhatt, who wrote the foreword. Introducing the book he said, “Poems are above institutional dogma and poets are courageous people. And “Virtuous Sin” is an anthology of poems about the plethora of feelings experienced by a woman. He added, “All great work of art erupts from the artists having to deal with their own anguish and the impossibility of making any sense of life and the poems by Ms. Ahmad reflect the range of emotions and loneliness the poet felt through different phases in her life.” “I have been writing since a very young age, but very little of my work has been in the public eye,” said Ms. Ahmad. The first poem, “Virtuous Sin”, is about the women whose lives have affected her, and have brought out the “pain and anguish” in her.
Surge of pent-up emotions Book release - ‘Virtuous Sin’ November 24, 2011; Speaker Hall
Appreciating the effort, poet/lyricist Javed Akhtar said it was “gratifying” to see that people are interested in poetry in these times. Educationist Goldy Malhotra, the illustrator of the book, said she found Ms. Ahmad’s poems “gutsy, honest and candid”, and accordingly her illustrations are “without inhibitions”.
The author, Shadan Ahmed flanked by Shyam Benegal, MP and Mahesh Bhatt, Film Director
Ajit Singh, Union Minister of Civil Aviation and Jagdish Singh Rana, MP
Former MP Shahid Siddiqui and Dr. Chandan Mitra, MP at the event. Swami Agnivesh, social activist at the event
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CLUB HUB
Justice A S Qureshi adressing the media
Press Conference
The gavel for International law December 8, 2011; Speaker Hall
To support the demand for Enforceable International Law, an initiative has been taken up by the chief justices, judges and legal luminaries from different countries, who gathered for a press conference at the Constitution Club of India. They laid emphasis on the need to elect a world parliament which will frame world laws that will be implemented by a world government and world court will interpret them. The press conference was headed by Justice A S Qureshi, chairman of the reception committee, New Delhi and a former judge of Gujarat High Court. Addressing the audience, Justice Qureshi said, “World judiciary can force the leaders of the world to come together and form a world parliament to enforce world law and constitute a world government.” Around 150 participants from 65 countries including India were participating in the 12th International Conference of Chief Justices of the World organised by the City Montessori School at Lucknow between December 9 and December 13. The participating countries include Afghanistan, Albania, Argentina, Azerbaijan, Benin, Bhutan, Brazil, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Finland, France, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Nepal, Benin, South Africa, Philippines, Peru, Colombia, Lebanon, Malta and others. Before this, the legal luminaries offered floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat.
Justice Qureshi further said, “I’m happy to see that over the last 10 years, there is an increasing participation by judges from Latin America, Asia and Africa. But there is still lack of participation by the European countries. There is an urgent need to realise the importance of unity of humankind and peace in the world. We judges can play a vital role as there is still respect in the eyes of people for us and I’m sure they will pay attention to whatever message we are conveying.” Justice Benjamin Odoki, Chief Justice of Uganda, said, “The future of over two billion children in the world can’t be ignored. It is imperative for their bright future that we take steps to enact world law as soon as possible.” Justice Fatoumata Diakite, President International Association of Judges, Cote D’Ivoire, a country in West Africa added that if there is coordination between different countries, humanity can be helped better. Justice Fredrick Egonda-Ntende, Chief Justice, Supreme Court, Seychelles, observed that it is a wonderful opportunity for the judges of the world to be a part of a noble cause and to strive for democratic new world order with a world government.
Meeting
Naveen Jindal, MP adressing the participants. Neeraj Shekhar, MP and Varun Gandhi, MP were also present
Citizen’s Alliance for Reproductive Health and Rights November 30, 2011; Deputy Chairman Hall
Lok Sabha MP Naveen Jindal announced the formation of a citizen’s alliance for population stabilisation in association with several young MPs across party lines and representatives of several social organisations. The alliance was named as “Citizens’ Alliance for Reproductive Health and Rights”. Expressing concern over the population outburst, Naveen Jindal, MP said, “After winning the right for common Indian man to hoist the Tricolour at his choice my challenge is to bring success to this population stabilization mission. I with the help from all those present today take up the mission for population stabilisation.” The alliance, which is the first of its kind, aims to address the issues such as maternal mortality, infant mortality, family welfare & planning that affect the population growth levels in India. Through a goal-based, action-oriented and inclusive approach, the alliance hopes to raise awareness on the issue among the masses, especially women. It also aims to look at the reproductive needs of the people as a holistic need of a healthy mother, child and a planned family.
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Several MPs including Agatha Sangama, Annu Tandon, Syed Shahnawaz Hussain, Neeraj Shekhar, Om Prakash Yadav, Ganesh Singh, M.S. Swaminathan, Varun Gandhi and Rajiv Pratap Rudy and social workers Shivani Wazir, Dipa Nag and Aprajita Gogoi voiced concern over the issue and vowed to work together for the stabilisation programme. The alliance has the support of other MPs like Jay Panda, Ashwamedha Devi, Harish Chaudhary, Ganesh Singh and Kakori Ghosh, said a statement.
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CLUB HUB
Book Release
The Pioneer- Life & Times of Vitthalrao Vikhe Patil
His Excellency, Shivraj Patil, Governor of Punjab and Rajasthan, Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission and Sushil Kumar Shinde, Union Minister of Power at the event
Founder of the co-operative movement in Indian sugar industry December 14, 2011; Speaker Hall
The biography of Padmashri Vitthalrao Vikhe Patil, founder of cooperative movementof sugar industry of India was released at the Constitution Club of India by Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia. The book, ‘The Pioneer-Life & Times of Vitthalrao Vikhe Patil’ was authored by freelance journalist and writer Arun Sadhu. The book is the saga of Patil’’s untiring efforts towards changing the rural scene of Maharasthra by exploring cooperative movement as an ideal medium for social, educational and economic upliftment of the rural masses. Speaking on the occasion, Ahluwalia said, “The situation of the country at that time was
such that would have made people cynical and negative. But a person like Vikhe Patil picked up an idea and led a constructive movement, it is an inspiration for everybody.” Adding that the book has resonance even toady, he said, “There is no doubt it is a gripping read and the biography is a quite inspiring
tale for younger people as it will become a beacon to guide for inner direction.” His Excellency Shivraj Patil, Governor of Punjab and Rajasthan, Sushil Kumar Sambhajirao Shinde, Union Minister of Power, Praful Patel, Union Minister of Heavy industries and Public Enterprises, Pratik
Prakashbapu Patil, Minister of state for Coal and Members of Parliament includes Dr. Bharatkumar Raut, Prakash Javadekar, Husain Dalwai, Dilip Kumar Mansukhlal Gandhi, Suresh Kashinath Taware, Bhausaheb Wakchaure, Eknath Mahadeo Gaikwad, Marotrao Sainuji Kowase were also present at the occasion.
Conference
Back in action November 25, 2011; Deputy Speaker Hall
Sultan Ahmed, Union Minister of State for Tourism and President, PCI addressing the audience
The Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) announced the restoration of its recognition by the sports ministry at a press conference at the Constitution Club of India. Indian para-athletes, who had virtually given up on hopes of participating in the London Olympics, can heave a sigh of relief. Though the last date for entries have passed, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) is considering the inclusion of the Indian contingent as a special case and the PCI is awaiting a confirmation from the IPC. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has also upheld and recognized the elections of the PCI held on July 29, 2011. Speaking on the occasion, the newly-elected president of PCI and Union Minister of State for Tourism Sultan Ahmed said, “The PCI is back to its functioning form and we are happy to inform the athletes that they can now take part in the London Olympics under the purview of PCI”. “Though some time has been lost, I believe all is not lost. We still have a few qualifying events left and our athletes can make it to the London Paralympics,” said Rathan Singh, Secretary General, PCI. While some para-athletes welcomed the decision, others rued the missed opportunities.
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CLUB HUB
Book Release
Searching for the lost December 8, 2011; Deputy Chairman Hall
Bachpan Bachao Andolan (BBA), a child rights organization had released a study report on the missing children at the Constitution Club of India. The book titled “Missing Children of India- a Pioneering Study by Bachpan Bachao Andolan” was released by Justice Altamas Kabir, Judge, Supreme Court of India and Executive Chairperson of National Legal Services Authority. Nearly eleven children go missing every hour in the country and majority of them are trafficked for forced labour, commercial sexual exploitation, and drug peddling, claims the report. 117480 children went missing in 392 districts between January 2008 to January 2010, as per data collected from government agencies. The NGO collected the data through RTI from 392 districts. Speaking on the occasion, Justice Altamas Kabir said, “Defining the term ‘Missing Children’ is difficult but not impossible. Even, the criminal motives cannot be ruled out behind the missing phenomena because it is hard to believe that a child goes missing on its own.” He proposed the nation-wide linkage of legal system to the remotest part of the country in order to tackle the problem. “Police and law and enforcement agencies do not take such cases seriously. There is dearth of agencies for collecting and disseminating
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data on missing children,” said Sunil Krishna, DirectorGeneral, National Human Rights Commission. Dr. P. M. Nair, ADG, CRPF, said, “Either we are part of the problem or the solution. It is for everyone in society to take action against all forms of exploitation of children. Only when demand stops, supply is curtailed.” This book is the first comprehensive study that has utilised various primary and secondary data sources including the Right to Information to collect data from across the country. The only other such effort has been made by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in its report 2004. In 2004-05, the NHRC reported that an estimated 44,000 children go missing every year with onefourth of them remaining untraced. The number has shown an increase of 32 per cent over a period of seven years. In 5 years, the number and the percentage of children who go missing and remain untraced shot up by more than 30 per cent, the book said. “If the average number of 150 reported missing children per district (from available data) is extrapolated to all 640 districts in the country, the total number of missing children in India every year would come to the tune of 96,000,” the report said. According to the data obtained through RTI, 24,744 children have been reported missing
from metros like New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Hyderabad. Among the metros, Delhi tops the list with 12 per cent of total reported missing children still untraced. Each year 6,785 children disappear from Delhi with 850 remaining untraced. Out of the total untraced children from these metro cities, Delhi and Kolkata alone constitute 89 per cent. Among 20 states and four Union Territories, Maharashtra has the highest number of children reported missing with 26,211, followed by West Bengal (25,413), Delhi (13,570) and Madhya Pradesh (12,777). The report also highlights the plight of migrant families residing in semi-urban areas, specially those close to the state, district
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and international borders. According to the report urban centres have high number of children reported missing. Areas with better transport and communication connectivity have high number of missing children. Also, regions with migratory population like slums and families from socially and economically weaker backgrounds form the majority of victims. The report has also laid down few guidelines and recommendations to create awareness and find solutions to increasing number of such cases. Bachpan Bachao Andolan also launched a website where one can access nation-wide record and data about missing children.
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