MINORITY CARD :THE DEADLIEST WEAPON

ARVIND K PANDEY

(Published In THE TELEGRAPH , JUNE 29,06 )

The UPA government seem to have knack of inventing one problem after another in the name of minorities. Aren't these a ploy to divert people attention from real problems tormenting the nation ? It's resorting to such tricks to hide government's inability to find ways and means to tackle them effectively . The formation of Minority Connisssion , the Sachar Committee attempt to count Muslimm heads in the army , the Andrha Pradesh governmnent's effort to reserve seats for Muslims in jobs and etc . make it clear that government is doggedly pursuing policies aimed at creating rift between minority and majority . Surely , the minoities have a right to live a better life but does their progress ensure end of the road for majority ? Aren't the people belonging to majoity group trapped in unspeakable problems ? Why the same zeal is absent to get them above hellish life ? The government should think of welfare of all the people instead of zeroing on select groups .Let it not forget that it's the respresentative of mandate hanging on majority's will .

CONGO :AN INJURED NATION

ARVIND K PANDEY

The problems hounding the Congo have turned it into a volcano waiting to be erupt . It's long tryst with wars have have crushed the well- being of its people , leaving permanent scars on their hearts and minds, which would take years to heal . Though U.N. has left no stone untutrned in bringing peace and stability in this region , the real solution needs collective effort from other nations as well . It's really unfortunate that picture of grief and despair exists side -by-side with scenes mired in joy and ecstasy dominating the developed nations . The election which are being held in summer would provide Congo an opportunity to rope in positive efforts for its people. Let the rulers of this nation cash -it-on this important development to end the pain and sufferings of people .To cap it all , it's time for the big nations to stop funding initiatives fuelled in by their greed. Let them focus their attetion on ' dark zones ' of the globe so that rays of hope become part and pacel of their lives.

SAVING CITIES
ARVIND K PANDEY

The big cities have fallen prey to man's short -sightedness . We seem to have bid adieu to enviromental concerns in a mad rush to stuff them with so-called glorious ahievements of the modern tims . Even the beautifcation attempts involve large -scale denial of ecological balance . Delhi's messy situation is hardly different from the chaos and confusion prevailing in Hong Kong . The uninterupted flow of industrial waste into Yamuna has nearly wiped out its existence in Delhi . Though vehicular emission is polluting the air with each passing day , the number of vehicles plying on the roads has been steadily increasing .The problem with us is that we have become used to late-awkening .More often than not it takes place when solutions to the pertaining problem lose relevance . Anyway , let's hope the efforts of civic authorities bring a whiff of fresh air in Hong Kong ,preventing them from paying a heavy price of
progress .

WORLD CUP FOOTBALL:HEAT IS ON

ARVIND K .PANDEY

(Published In THE WEEK, July 02,06)

The World Cup football always manages to have an electrifying effect on sports lovers all over the globe . It's always rocked by high-voltage drama and fiery passions of competing teams cocking an eye at the Cup. Though Brazil , Argentina ,Italy and Germany are hot-favourites , the minnows including Ghana , Japan and Portugal ,to name a few , have the capability to disturb their equations. Beckham,England , Lionel Messi,Argentina, and Robben ,Holland are some of the players waiting to extend their statures further with charismatic performances. However, over the years it's clear that dark horses have come to steal the show in the World cup , with unkown players turning into darling of fotball lovers . As far as Germany is concerned it won't be easy t , being the host nation ,to fulfil the wishes of fans and coach. Anyway , the expectations of fans , ambitions of coaches and commitment of players never fail to create a mesemerizing scenario.

MUSICAL CHARM

ARVIND K PANDEY

(Published In GRAPHITI, THE TELEGRAPH,JUNE 25,06)

Bappi Lahiri has carved an unique place for himself in musical landscape with his amazing ability to provide Indian touch to Western rhythums . Though he has not been given his due , he has not allowed "harsh attitude " of Bollywood to come in his way of providing listeners foot-tapping numbers . His lilting numbers in Amitabh's Sharabi and Namak Halaaal had a huge share in turning them into block busters of their period . His songs like Chalte Chalte Mere Ye Geet Yaad Rekhna (Chalte Chalte ;Lyrics :Amit Khanna ), Mana Ho Tum Behad Hansi(Toote Khilone ;Lyrics :Kaifi Azmi ), Saiyan Bina Ghar Soona (Aagan Ki Kali;Lyrics : Shailey Shailendra )and Tere Choti Se Ek Bhool Ne Sara Gulshan Jala Diya(Shikshaa;Lyrics :Guhar Kanpuri ) , to name a few, would always appear pleasing to ears of music lovers. In early 80s his disco compositions swayed the youth brigade, making Mithun darling of everyone . It's heartening to see him active in the musical domain in twilight of his career with vigour of olden days .

MEOW HOUR

ARVIND K PANDEY

MANMOHAN SINGH:"We are sending Indians to the moon next year ."

BUSH:How Many?"

MANMOHAN SINGH:"We are planning to send 100 people.The break up is :25 OBCs,25 SCs, 20 STs, 5 handicapped , 5 sport persons , 5 Kashmiri Migrants , 9 politicians , 5 terrorist- affected , 1 astronaut if possible ....provided he gets a place to sit .

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RASHMI: When and where were you born?

PRIYANKA: I was born in a hospital on my birthday.

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PRIYANKA: Where is Bill today?

Belinda: In bed, Miss.

PRIYANKA: What’s the matter with him? Is he ill?

Belinda: We were having a competition to see who could lean out of the window farthest and Bill won the competition.

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First boy: My father is afraid of crossing the road.

Second boy: What makes you say that?

First boy: You don’t know what he does! He always holds my hand while crossing the road.

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Teacher: Tell me, why do apples fall on the ground?

Rahim: Because they know that there’s no one in the sky to eat them.

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Man (to a boy): Why are you putting your hand in my pocket?

Boy: I wanted to take your pen.

Man: Can’t you ask for it?

Boy: I don’t talk to strangers.

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Jailor (to a prisoner): What’s your problem?

Prisoner: I cannot find my way out of this jail.

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History teacher: Rahul, who killed Siraj-ud-daula?

Rahul: The termites, sir.

Teacher: Rahul, don’t you read your history book?

Rahul: My history book has been eaten by termites.

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Police officer: Why did you steal the watch?

Thief: I did not steal it. The man gave it to me.

Police officer: Oh, really? When did he give it to you?

Thief: When I showed him the gun!

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An American, a Chinese, a Japanese and an Indian decide to break a world record by building a ship, the first of its kind.

American: I will supply the best steel.

Chinese: I will supply the best tools.

Japanese: I will supply the best interiors.

Indian: Very good. I will make sure I write on the ship in bold letters, Made in India.

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Boy (to toy shop owner): Give me an aeroplane.

Shopkeeper: Here is your aeroplane.

Boy: Here is your money.

Shopkeeper: This is not real money.

Boy: This is not a real aeroplane, either.

FROM KIDS CORNER , THE TELEGRAPH& KHUSWANT'S COLUMN

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PRIYANKA's FASHION STATEMENTS:

1.LOVE IS TWO WAY TRAFFIC .

2.TOO MANY CATS IN ONE'S LIFE LEAD TO (CAT)ASTROPHE

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SONG OF THE WEEK:Tum Kitni Khobsurat Ho...(Jungle Mein Mangal )

DISSAPEARING BIRDS

ARVIND K PANDEY

The progress of human beings has sounded the death knell for rare species of birds and animals . It's not surprising that presence of migratory birds like Pied Flycatcher , Andean Hamingo , Lesser Yellowlegs and etc. is in danger owing to enviromental degradation in American flyways . We cannot ignore the truth that our conflits with nature need to be minimsed to provide these species a breather .It's strange but true that a positive growth curve for human beings does not necssarily ensure a happy future for these silent sufferers . Even In india the migratory birds from Siberian region are no longer visible in sancturies . No doubt the wheel of progress can't be stopped but let it not decide the fate of flora and fauna . Life devoid of these colourful birds would become meaningless and dark .

NEPAL'S NEVER ENDING WOES

ARVINDK PANDEY

Nepal seems to be close to resolving the problems haunting it for more than a decade .King Gyanendra devilish approach to the cause of Nepalese people made it clear that Nepal's future lies in democratic manoeuvres . However, it remains to be seen how does the Koirala government strikes balance between the democratic principles and acidic patterns of Maoists . It is safe to conclude that without defining the role of Maoists in the present state of affairs one cannot hope for better days in Nepal. Considering that importance of Monarchy in the Nepalese world , it's influence cannot be reduced .Given the complex nature of crisis encircling the Nepalese people , the middle path which serves the cause of both people and the Kingdom has to be framed . This delicate balance connecting the king and people in honourable way is alone the way to bring everlasting peace in Nepal .

CURBING CANCER
ARVIND K PANDEY

The efforts of Bangalore Institute Of Oncology and the Triesta Sciences need to be applauded for forming Health Care Global to stop the menace of Cancer . It's no secret that quality reserach work have been absymally low in the medical domain due to lack of enthusiasm and absence of well-equipped labs . Apart from changing the lif style , the novel efforts of researchers would alone prevent the diseases like Cancer and AIDS to spread their tentacles . At the same time , the research initiatives are bound to increase the effectiveness of the treatment of Cancer by widening the scope of its interception from diverse angles .

FOOTBALL AND INDIANS
ARVIND K PANDEY

When small countries like Ghana , Ivory Coast , Trinadad And Tobago,Japan and Iran can carve awesome moves in World Cup and other European tournaments, there is no resaon why Indians should remain on backfoot when it comes to display the same vigour and enthusiasm .After all, Mohan Bgan ,East Bengal and others have played some terrific fotball matches on home ground . The sad reality is that Indians lack the commitment to excel via hard practice.If other countries of this continent have emerged as Asian Giants , it's because they have worked day and night to master the game with no copromises that dampen the spirit to aim high .Apart from this natural tendency of ours to dwell in laziness , it's political interferences which have have blocked the road to success. One hopes World Cup fever would motivate them to fall in love with attributes ,which gives one the passport to participate in such premier tournaments .

VAIN CONFRONTATION OVER DA VICI CODE

ARVIND K PANDEY

(Published In FRONTLINE , JUNE 30)

The cartoon controversy has taught us that creative freedom does not give one the licence to crush the image of religious sects.At the same time , governments have no right to dictate the ideas and perceptions of creative people. Under this background it becomes necessary that creative people , being guided by honest reflections, should encircle their creations with right motives ,which do not make caricature of time -honoured beliefs. At least , we must have power to view things in right perspective , leaving no scope

CURBING NAXAL MENACE

ARVIND K PANDEY

(Published In THE WEEK , June 25,06)

Shivraj Patil now cannot argue with straight face that there are not enough reasons to worry about the growth of the Maoists in nation . Barely a few weeks ago Naxalites caused havoc killing 11 policemen in Raipur . This only confirms the suspicion that Indian government is utterly devoid of comprehensiove plans to combat the menace of viloent groups . One wonders what is prevemting the government to come out with strong measures to wipe out people growing in dangerous manner . Our Priminister has for umpteen times suggersted soft -measures like introductionn of land reforms , rehabilitation programmes and etc. However, one suspects that time has run out for further extension of such rosy measures .It's time for well-coordinated tit-for -tat responses

A BALANCED PROGRESS

ARVIND K PANDEY

There are many Indias waiting to be disovered , which rampant commercialisation has hidden from our view . The recent glorious achievements of India might have enabled " nouveaux riches " to spend in a mindless fashion but that's not reflection of balanced progress . Just cast a glance around and eyes would certainly get fixed on ill-clad childeren ,beggars , mentally-ill people roaming aimlessly on the streets . Going by the repitions of Janet Jackson famous slip by our models at recent Lakme Fashion Show in Mumbai , one cannot ignore the fact that this so-called progress is coupled with falling standards in morality level . In fact , this buying power of certain elitist sections has only polarised the Indian society in a dangerous manner . The need of the hour is to go in for ideas , which allow all the classes to enjoy the benefits in equal manner, making way for their dignified existence as well .

PRESIDENTIAL INTERVENTION

ARVIND K PANDEY

(Published In The INDIA TODAY ,June 26,06)

The odds seem to favour President A.P.J Abdul Kalam , who don't want to get trapped in the dirty politics played by the vicious cycle of big politicians .The President's uneasy compromises in the past have proved detrimental for his image .By returning the office-of-profit bill he has coveyed a strong message that President's office can't be udesd as a tool to serve political ambitions of worn -out politicians . In fact , his refusal to come to terms with wish of the Cabinet should make it clear that bill sent to President's office should serve the cause of nation instead of fulfilling the vested interests . Anyway, Kalam's refusal , backed up by reasonable queries , raises hope of better days in the Indian politics .

FOOTBALL FEVER

ARVIND K PANDEY

(Published In OUTLOOK,JUNE 26,06)

It is perhaps time to witness high-voltage sporting drama in Germany. Though India is not in the race to clinch the World Cup Trophy , the football fever ,however , has taken Indian in its grip . Just like cricket it appeals and excites the hearts and minds . Despte's India's absence the football mania is powerful and strong enough to keep both youth and silver class glued to the TV set. After all , the World Cup Football is pipeline to unlimited thrill and excitement .Needless to say , we are all eager to ride the wave of this great game.

HONOURING WISDOM

ARVIND K PANDEY

(Published In BUSINESS AND ECONOMY,June 01)

The wisdom of an experienced man is always more valuable than the amateurish considerations of immature minds. The nation’s history records that the valuable observations by policy-makers like Vidura, Vashistha and Chanakya showed the way to later generations at the helm of affairs. Of late, the storehouses of wisdom are no longer valued. It is true that they are not always good at keeping up with new trends, but that is hardly any reason to ignore their worth. Considering that Verghese Kurien made significant contributions during to the milk cooperative movement, it would not be wise to ignore the enormous possibilities still latent in him. In fact, a person with a sound mind and leadership qualities should not be forced to quit unless he is seriously considered unfit to be in service

WOMAN OF COURAGE

ARVIND K PANDEY

The courage and optimism radiated by Mukhtaran Bibi provide her an iconic status . Considering the fact that Pakistan is plagued by archaic mindsets of Mullahs and feudalistic tendencies , the deteremination to seek justice was in no way an easy task . Still , she managed to focus the atttention of Interational media towards the state of her affairs , to an extent that it irked President Musharraf . In fact , she has provided ray of hope to women reeling under unspeakable conditions in Pakistan . It's no secret that Pakistan has bcome home of honour killings . The efforts of Mukhtaran prove that it's very difficult to suppress womanly courage . Probably , the way she has managed to carve a path for herself makes her personality attain unparallel heights , being both awesome and inspiring .

BRIAN LARA'S INDECENT BEHAVIOUR

ARVIND K PANDEY

(Published In THE TELEGRAPH ,June 12,06)

The showdown between Brian Lara and the umpire, Asad Rauf, should have been avoided. There was no need for Lara to snatch the ball away from the umpire’s hands and make his displeasure known. Moreover, M.S. Dhoni’s dismissal raises doubts about certain regulations followed by the International Cricket Council. Why should the rules permit a captain to put pressure on an umpire in order to claim a dismissal ? In Dhoni’s case, since the third umpire had failed to deliver a clear verdict, the batsman should have been declared not out. It pains to see match referees acting in a partisan manner. If an Indian player had behaved in the manner Lara did, he would have surely incurred the wrath of the authorities concerned.

UNLEASHING MOVIE MAGIC

ARVIND K PANDEY

(Published In HARDNEWS, JUNE ,06)

Let me state that new flicks have failed to highlight the core -issues hell -bent on crushing the hearts and minds of the urban youth .The sincerity and honesty of yesteryears movie makers , who dealt with social issues tearing apart our social fabric in all their dimensions cannnot be traced in GenNext directors . Though flicks like Yuva , Hum Tum , Dil Chata Hai have tried to make inroads into the lives of urban youths , one , however , cannot safely conclude that better days are here for people interested in quality cinema . Let's not forget that present age young directors are solely focussed on miniscule section , especially the hip-hop elite classs, and that too with aim to carve a niche among the NRIs . After all , movie making is all about attracting huge moolah ! Since the directors are totally cut-off from the dilemmas encircling the rural and middle class Indians , they fail to stir the emotions of average Indians . If flicks like Amanush , Aandhi ,Do Bigha Jameen ,Pyasa and Mother India were able to leave an indelible impression on the consciousnes of the viewers , it's because their makers shared the road with masses . Can present age directors claim to be owner of such simplistic and down -to-earth approach ? No . In the same breath , let me state that film making in India is today devoid of Indianess . Right from creation of songs to potrayl of emotions , the Westernised treatment of caricatured plots has taken over the sense and sensibilities of the movie barons .Let's appreciate the Western attributes but , in the process , make room for Indian beliefs and perceptions .

COALITION DRAMA

ARVIND K PANDEY

(Published In INDIA TODAY,JUNE 19,06)

The nation has has suffered tremendeously at the hands of coalition partners . Till now , nation's tryst with it has turned counter -productive , tearing apart principles of good governance . Even Election Commission is not too happy over existence of the smaller parties . The major political parties which failed to heed to the grievances of people are solely responsible for the messy state of affairs . The smaller parties are simply representatative of people's backlash , albeit in a partisan manner . Unless the politicians learn to respect the dynamics of govewrnance in a dignified way , there is little merit in hailing the great game of coalition .

NO CHILD'S PLAY

ARVIND K PANDEY

(PUBLISHED IN HARMONY ,JUNE 06)

It's not an easy task to establish rapport with childeren of presnt age trapped in charm of gadgets. Anant Pai's potent combination of his writing skills and rich imagination has , however, allowed him to rule over the kingdom of kids .He seems to have first hand experience of a child's psyche , which has enabled him to weave one story after another . His comic strips including Tintin have always been sea of entertainment for a huge section of childeren ,belonging to both middle and elite echelons . Considering the fact that writers in this nation have always been reluctant to churn out books for childeren , the inclination of Pai towards Kids' world came as a whiff of a fresh air .More so when it's very difficult to grasp their zones of interests. He continues to sway the hearts and minds of childeren , being unafffected by insurmountable odds in the way of intercepting child's likes and dislikes. Indeed, it's no child play to encircle the achievements of Pai.

RESERVATION UNREST

ARVIND K PANDEY

(Published In THE WEEK , JUNE 11,06)

The anti-reservation protests are indicative of students' frusration over goverenment's bonhomie with shrewd tactics aimed at 'divide and rule ' . Probably , this head-on collision of students with the government machinery should make it clear to Arjun Singh that any attempt to comprehensively nullify the interests of general category could lead to unrest and chaos . In fact , the only way to iron out the differences would be to provide meritorious students a congenial atmosphere to deal in excellence . It's not surprising that protests have taken epidemic proportions . Suffice it to say that indulging in caste-oriented equations to ride roughshod over interests of bright students could capsize the boat of haughty politicians like Arjun Singh.

Striking hard

Arvind K. Pandey
The Telegraph | Saturday, June 10, 2006 |

The increase in attacks on Hindu organizations and their places of worship makes it obvious that apart from fanning communal strife, the terrorists groups operating in India also want to weaken the forces of Hinduism in the country. Instead of mouthing rhetoric about maintaining peace, the government should take concrete steps to combat Islamic terrorism.

The Manmohan Singh government has allowed militancy to assume menacing proportions by failing to take adequate measures to root out terror. The soft policies adopted by the United Progressive Alliance have ensured that ordinary Indians remain at the receiving end of terror.

DAVID GOWER'S INSIGHTS

ARVIND K PANDEY

(Published In CRICINFO , JUNE ,06)

David Gower's insights help us to understand the complex world of cricket in a better way . Indeed, it's a herculean job for the captain to balance the interests of team with potential of an individual . Let's not foget that cricket allows an individual to touch pinnacle through majestic performances . Therefore , you cannot curb the 'basic instincts' of players. However, in fast-paced world of cricket there are no specific mesures to strike an honourable balance between the two. This ' delicate balance ' between an individual's talent and the demands of team needs a well-coordinated approach fom the team management , captain and the coach . However , this would remain a wishful thought if commercilalisation is allowed to dictate terms in world of cricket

INDIA VS WEST INDIES:OVERCOIMNNG LIONS AT HOME

ARVIND K PANDEY

( Published In THE WEEK ,04 June ,06 )

The India -West Indies clashes in West Indies have always been a thrilling experience for the cricket lovers.Going by the past history , it's quite clear that visiting teams have always remained on the fringes in West Indies , being cowed down by its pace attack . However , at present Indians have an edge over them as West Indies is devoid of teeth in absence of quality bowlers besides out-of-form players . West Indies have failed to produce players like Richards ,Holding ,Marshall ,Garner and Llyod . On the other hand Team India is beaming with confidence with impressive victoriers under its belt in recent time . It remains to be seen whether our youth brigade is able to break the jinx in West Indies or not .

PRIYANKA'S MEOW
ARVIND K PANDEY

Priyanka : I asked you to draw a cow that is eating grass but you’ve only drawn the cow. Where is the grass?

Pupil: Ma’am, the cow ate up all the grass!

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Banana (to apple ) : Everyone makes pieces of you and eats you up .

Appple: That's better than waht they do to you .Everyone undresses you and eats you .

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Son :I scored a triple century in the match today .

Father : I must go to the stadium and see you play like this tommorow .

Son : Probably , I won't be in form tommorow .

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Priyanka : Can you tell me whatt is steam ?

Student : Oh Ma'm it is water gone crazy because of the heat .

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Priyanka : Vivek , explain the process of digestion in one sentence .

Vivek : Digestion is a process that starts with the right hand and ends with left hand.
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Mother: I can't believe that you have written " God lives in the bathroom " in your answer script !

Son: Why are you getting angry at me ? The other day when I was in the bathroom for nearly two hours did you not knock and say ' Oh god ! you are still there '?

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Several bats are resting , all upside down as usual , except for one bat which is facing up . The group leader approaches it and asks worriedly:

" Hey man ,is anything wrong ?

"No everthing is fine .I'm just doing yoga .

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In bed , the husband asks his young bride , "Darling ,tell me I 'm the first man in your life ."

She looks at him and answers , " You could be ...you do look familiar !"

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The lady painting a picture in the middle of thefield asked the farmer : " I hope I 'm not disturbing you ?"

The farmer :" On the contrary ! I was actually in the need of a scarecrow to ward off the birds !"

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A czech goes to the opthalmologist who shows him a card with the letters " CZWXNQZTACZ".

"Can you read this ?" he asks .

"Read" the Czech replies , " I even know the guy !"
FROM KIDS CORNER ,TELEGRAPH ;AND THE RD .

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