Dinesh Kamath's Editorial 'Will NASA succeed in solving the mystery of Mars?' that was published in Newsband

Will NASA succeed in solving the mystery of Mars?

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s Mars rover has managed to come up with a lot of vital information relating to planet Mars.

Not only the rover survived the harsh environment of the red planet but it also provided much sought after information on whether past environmental conditions were favourable for microbial life. It was necessary to know whether there was presence of liquid water at some point in the planet’s history. The rover returned abundant and invaluable information that unequivocally confirmed that Mars once had liquid water that was suitable for drinking.

The detection of well-rounded pebbles in the rock layers on a dry river bed and also the deposition of alternate layers of pebbles aligned at a particular angle was strongly suggestive of a paleoriver. The presence of clay minerals inside a drilled rock suggested that water was present for extended periods of time.

The potential evidence of paleoglaciers was gathered by cameras on board NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and the European Space Agency’s Mars Express. Despite the presence of liquid water, the lack of atmospheric methane greatly reduces the possibility of any extant or extinct microbial life on Mars. Let us see whether India’s Mars Orbiter Mission manages to unearth some unknown facets of the red planet.

But the question is whether water is necessary for life at Mars or for that matter at any planet. There can be other forms of life as well which have evolved as per the environment of the planets. Why it is not possible that any life there could live on say radiation and needing no water at all? Why the conditions that made life on earth possible are necessary for the life to exist on Mars?

It is true that it is too early to confirm about the existence of life on the red planet. In this regard India’s Mars Orbiter Mission would certainly feed some crucial information to clearly understand this.

Many of them believed that life existed there in the past and many others concluded that people can live there comfortably. But still none of them were satisfactory conclusions. At present, NASA's curiosity is playing a crucial role in digging out the secrets that are hidden in the red planet. Some of the reports and data being collected are really mind blowing. Let us hope that India's Mars Orbiter Mission also plays a great role in finding the hidden treasures. Let the treasure hunt continue and we can hope that the mysteries will be revealed at the earliest.

Dinesh Kamath at Urban Haat

Above Picture: Editor of Newsband Dinesh Kamath is in the front row, second from right, at Urban Haat at CBD-Belapur during the function organized on one of the Annual Day of daily newspaper Newsband 

Video: Dinesh Kamath sings 'Yeh Joh Mohabbat Hai'

Dinesh Kamath's cartoons based on 'Alooramji' that were published in Newsband

Dinesh Kamath's news 'NMMC to beautify Nerul lake' that was published in Newsband

NMMC to beautify Nerul lake

By Dinesh Kamath

NAVI MUMBAI: Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation is planning to beautify Nerul lake. Around the lake will be a fitness park, jogging path, an amphitheatre and an open air gym. The city residents who enjoy riding two wheelers, especially the cycle, can use this place to have their fun. The cycling track will soon be ready. Cycling track and jogging track will be constructed separately. They will touch the lake on one side and Palm Beach Road on the other side.

Once the beautification of Nerul lake is completed, this spot is bound to attract many tourists. Even the local residents are bound to pay constant visit to this spot especially to exploit these tracks. Migratory birds will be an additional tourist attraction.

The jogging track will be made in such a way that it will suit professional runners and the wooden floor appearance of the track will make it more attractive to those who use it.

There will be light poles constructed  around the lake and this will brighten up the place at night. Those who are interested in fishing will be granted permission to pursue their hobby near the lake under the supervision of the lake authorities.

The park will have walls on all sides to prevent unwanted intruders. The park will have a huge statue which will be called the jewel of Navi Mumbai and it will also have an amphitheatre where functions or events can be organized and presented before 1000 audiences. The park will also have an open-air gym and parking lot.

The fitness zone will also attract both the tourists and local residents thus adding to the revenue of NMMC. The greenery factor will also not be ignored while beautifying the lake and its surroundings. 

Dinesh Kamath's Editorial 'Stop the influx of illegal Bangladeshis' that was published in Newsband

Stop the influx of illegal Bangladeshis

The new government places great importance on Dhaka-New Delhi relations. National Democratic Alliance government started off with India’s important eastern neighbour by sending their External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to Bangladesh as soon as they came to power. The clear message from the trip was that the new government, as the previous one, placed great importance on Dhaka-New Delhi relations.

There is no doubt that a great deal has been accomplished in the relationship in the last few years in the areas of security, economic development, sub-regional cooperation, opening of the Indian market to Bangladeshi goods, border infrastructure, energy and people-to-people exchanges.

By easing the visa norms, has India made a mistake? The operation of bus service from Gauhati, Shillong to Dhaka will invite more and more illegal refugees to the land of North-East. Today North-East region, particularly Assam, has become a both breathing and breeding center for Bangladeshi refugees. Indian government may think that they can take various steps to check such illegal entry through various mechanisms like: Passport, Visa, ILP etc But, the fact as it remain is far away from the sight of government. A question - Why the population of Assam and other parts of NE states is increasing so rapidly? The reason is simple - entry of mature refugees. the Bangladeshi illegal immigrants who cross the Indo-Bangladesh border and enter India are no doubt, an adult or mature person. No child can do that. So, since this refugees comes to India at their adult or re-productive stage, within a couple of year they will give a birth to child. It seems that North-East India has become a breeding centre. So, the government has to be very careful with the policy.

One of the main reasons for BJP gaining so many seats in Assam was because the people felt that something positive and tangible will be done by this government regarding the huge influx of illegal Bangladeshis. People were let down by the previous governments who have used these Bangladeshis as vote banks. As it is almost quite frequent, these illegal migrants cross over to Assam and when bus services and frequent train services are going to be introduced, these migrants are going to come all the more. As it is Assamese are a minority now in their own state. What was actually expected by the local Assamese population was stronger border vigil and building of barriers in the border to prevent their influx. Now the Assamese who have voted this government to power primarily to deal with this Bangladeshi influx are surely going to feel let down.

India should take lessons on border problems with our next door neighbours. Curbing intruders and illicit immigration should be totally curbed from the very begining. Foregin policy options should keep in mind the border states concern. BJP-led government at the Centre should not show haste in building one sided friendship with its neighbours. There should not be any undue concessions to neighbours without their demanding. It appears that India is concerned with achieving minor things, than to achieve bigger things . Borders should be demarcated and fencing completed without any scope for large scale intrusion and smuggling. India should offer those things, what it can get in return. There must be two ways traffic for enduring peace in the region.

Dinesh Kamath’s movie column ‘New movies released in Navi Mumbai’ (Hey Bro, Badmashiyan – Fun Never Ends, Dum Laga Ke Haisha, Ab Tak Chhappan 2 and Kingsman: The Secret Service) that was published in Newsband

New movies released in Navi Mumbai

By Dinesh Kamath

Hey Bro

Hey Bro is a Hindi Comedy Action Drama film directed by Ajay Chandhok, produced by Vidhi Acharya and Music by Nitz 'N' Sony (Nitin Arora & Sony Chandy) and Lyrics by Pranav Vatsa. The film stars Ganesh Acharya, Maninder Singh, Nupur Sharma and Hanif Hilal.

Hey bro is a movie about a guy name Gopi who just found out who had a twin brother who was a policeman and the story goes on. The movie narrates a story of twin brother with a twist. Hey Bro is about Gopi (Ganesh Acharya) who lives with his grandfather (Prem Chopra) in a small village. One day his grandfather tells him that he has a twin brother who stays in Mumbai. Unlike the usual Bollywood twin brothers movies, 'Hey Bro' is a movie with a twist as Gopi’s twin brother Shiv (Played by Manindar) looks totally opposite to him.

The film has Ganesh Acharya as Gopi, Maninder Singh as Shiv, Nupur Sharma as Anjali, Hanif Hilal as Baba, Indira Krishnan, Prem Chopra, Amitabh Bachchan (special appearance in "Birju"), Akshay Kumar (special appearance in "Birju"), Hrithik Roshan (special appearance in "Birju"), Ajay Devgan (special appearance in "Birju"), Ranveer Singh (special appearance in "Birju"), Prabhudeva (special appearance in "Birju"), Avi Khairnar (special appearance) and Govinda.

The film has songs like "DJ" sung by Sunidhi Chauhan, (Ali Zafar), "Birju" by            Mika Singh,Udit Narayan,Rap by Arya & Naezy, "Bulbul" by Shreya Ghoshal and Himesh Reshammiya, "Line Laga" by Mika Singh and "Hu Tu Tu" by Sonu Nigam.

Badmashiyan – Fun Never Ends

Badmashiyan – Fun Never Ends is a Romantic Comedy with the cast consisting of Suzanna Mukherjee, Sidhant Gupta, Karan Mehra, Sharib Hashmi and Gunjan Malhotra. The film is directed by Amit Khanna, written by Kushal Ved Bakshi, produced by Vijay Gutte with Bobby and Imran as Music Directors and The lyrics done by Shabbir Ahmed

The film story is quite interesting. The story which is revealed to some extent is about a café owner Dev whose girlfriend leaves him the night he was planning to propose her. After a few months, he meets a new girl Palak who is a young woman staying next door during a bank hold-up and Dev’s friend Pinkesh who as a private investigator has been trying to track down Na-ri for him and he finds that Na-ri is living with the Don named Jassi who is a reformed gangster. whose songs have been quite a hit and people have loved those songs immensely.

Dum Laga Ke Haisha

Dum Laga Ke Haisha is a Bollywood drama film directed by Sharat Katariya and starring Ayushmann Khurana and Bhumi Pednekar in lead roles featuring Kumar Sanu in a cameo. The filming took place in Haridwar and Rishikesh. Italian composer Andrea Guerra has composed the film's background score.

The film has Ayushmann Khurana as Prem Prakash Tiwari, Bhumi Pednekar as Sandhya, Kumar Sanu as Kumar Sanu (Cameo), Sanjay Mishra (actor) as Prems father and Vidushi Mehra.

The film has all lyrics written by Varun Grover, all music composed by Anu Malik. The film has songs like "Moh Moh Ke Dhaage (Male)" sung by           Papon (Angaraag Mahanta), "Dum Laga Ke Haisha" by Kailash Kher, Jyoti Nooran and Sultana Nooran, "Tu" by Kumar Sanu, "Sunder Susheel" by        Malini Awasthi & Rahul Ram, "Dard Karaara" by Kumar Sanu & Sadhana Sargam, "Moh Moh Ke Dhaage (Female)" by Monali Thakur and "Prem's Theme" by Papon (Angaraag Mahanta).

Mumbai:  Actor-singer Ayushmann Khurrana, who is gearing up for the release of his upcoming romantic comedy Dum Laga Ke Haisha, says the movie offers a unique flavour.

Dum Laga Ke Haisha is a quirky and different film. Actor-singer Ayushmann Khurrana is playing a simpleton from Uttar Pradesh, lives in Haridwar, Rishikesh...is an uneducated person and a failure in life. He runs an audio cassettes shop and the film is set in 1994. He is a fan of singer Kumar Sanu. Prem Prakash Tiwari is the character played by Ayushmann, who unwillingly marries a fat girl. The film depicts as to how Love comes in all sizes. The story basically revolves around the life of a small town couple - Prem and Sandhya. From overcoming his fear of the English language to dealing with an overbearing father, Prem (Ayushmann Khurrana) discovers that his oversized and mismatched wife, Sandhya (Bhumi Pednekar), who he thought was a spanner in his business and life, will actually lead him to something quite cool. From here, the movie then proceeds towards the climax.

Ab Tak Chhappan 2

Ab Tak Chhappan 2 (English: So Far Fifty Six II) is a Hindi crime film produced by Raju Chada and Gopal Dalvi. The film is directed by Aejaz Gulab and scripted by Nilesh Girkar. The film stars Nana Patekar in the lead role. It also stars Gul Panag, and Ashutosh Rana. The film is a sequel to Ab Tak Chhappan.

 The story revolves around Inspector Sadhu Agashe (Nana Patekar) from the Mumbai Encounter Squad. It is inspired by the life of Police sub-Inspector with Mumbai Police force Daya Nayak.

The film has Nana Patekar as Inspector Sadhu Agashe, Gul Panag, Mohan Agashe as Ex Commissioner Pradhan, Govind Namdev, Raj Zutshi, Vikram Gokhale and Ashutosh Rana.

To curb crime that has been increasing under the influence and control of the underworld Don, Rawale (operating from Bangkok) and Don, Rauf Lala (operating from Mumbai), the Home Minister and the Chief Minister need a capable officer who can take charge of the Mumbai Encounter Squad.

Sadhu Agashe (Nana Patekar) who was once holding the position and is currently facing several charges is the first choice. After several calls, the man has finally agreed to re-join the police force.

The story basically revolves around Inspector Sadhu Agashe (Nana Patekar) from the Mumbai Encounter Squad. It is inspired by the life of Police sub-Inspector with Mumbai Police force Daya Nayak.

Kingsman: The Secret Service

Kingsman: The Secret Service is a 2014 is a spy action comedy film, directed by Matthew Vaughn and based on the comic book. The film is created by Dave Gibbons and Mark Millar. The screenplay was written by Vaughn and Jane Goldman. The film stars Colin Firth, Samuel L. Jackson, Mark Strong, Taron Egerton and Michael Caine.

Kingsman follows the recruitment and training of a potential secret agent, Gary "Eggsy" Unwin into a secret spy organisation. Although he is not recruited for the Kingsman organisation, Eggsy joins a three-man mission to tackle a global threat from an eco-terrorist billionaire.

A veteran spy (Colin Firth) of a super-secret organization recruits an unrefined but promising street kid (Taron Egerton) into the agency’s ultra-competitive training program just as a global threat emerges from a twisted tech genius. Colin Firth is fantastic as "Galahad", a super suave spy who tries to help his fallen comrades son "Eggsy" played by Taron Egerton from a life heading behind bars. Colin Firth plays Harry Hart, a super spy a la the Roger Moore era Bond. In this film, there's a scene early on where Hart tries talking to young Gary "Eggsy" Unwin (Taron Egerton) in a pub, only to be interrupted by a group of toughs. The way Hart dismantles the group is beautiful. Likewise, Egerton ends up feeling like a real discovery here. Eggsy's father was a Kingsman who died in the line of duty, and Eggsy has grown up without him, never knowing the truth. When Hart is encouraged to find a new recruit for the Kingsman program, he decides to bring Eggsy in, convinced that he's going to be able to stack up next to the other recruits, who all seem to have been born and bred specifically for this purpose. The movie proceeds towards the climax after that. 

Dinesh Kamath's news 'Many manhole covers stolen in Airoli, expert states reasons for such thefts' that was published in Newsband

Many manhole covers stolen in Airoli, expert states reasons for such thefts

By Dinesh Kamath

NAVI MUMBAI: Many manhole covers were found missing in Airoli thus posing dangers to both pedestrians and motorists. The authorities concerend did not care to do anything about this happenings in Airoli. Stealing of manhole covers is found to be a new kind of crime which some thieves indulge in. They seel these covers to the scrap dealers who must be paying them quite well. Otherwise why would these thieves indulge in stealing of manhole covers? The gaping holes has become a big threat for motorists especialy duing night time. Owing to the removal of manhole covers, the rubble is strewn around and gutter lines are open posing danger to pedestrians. A resident of Airoli had a good suggestion to make. According to him, the manhole covers should be manufactured in such a way that the thieves should not be able to remove them. Airoli ward officer seemed to have liked the idea and the said that he would pass on the suggestion to the higher authorities.

When an expert on manhole covers was approached, he gave detailed information about these covers. He said, “When A manhole cover is a removable plate forming the lid over the opening of a manhole, to prevent anyone or anything from falling in, and to keep out unauthorized persons and material. Manhole covers date back at least to the era of ancient Rome, which had sewer grates made from stone. Manhole covers are often made out of cast iron, concrete or a combination of the two. This makes them inexpensive, strong, and heavy, usually weighing more than 50 kilograms (110 lb). The weight helps to keep them in place when traffic passes over them, and makes it difficult for unauthorised people not having suitable tools to remove them. Manhole covers may also be constructed from glass-reinforced plastic or other composite material (especially in Europe, or where cover theft is of concern). Because of legislation restricting acceptable manual handling weights, Europe has seen a move towards lighter weight composite manhole cover materials, which also have the benefits of greater slip resistance and electrical insulating properties.

A manhole cover sits on metal base, with a smaller inset rim which fits the cover. The base and cover are sometimes called "castings", because they are usually made by a casting process, typically sand-casting techniques.

The covers usually feature "pick holes", into which a hook handle tool is inserted to lift them. Pick holes can be concealed for a more watertight lid, or can allow light to shine through. A manhole pick or hook is typically used to lift them, though other tools can be used as well, including electromagnets.

Although the covers are too large to be easily collectible, their ubiquity and the many patterns and descriptions printed on them has led some people to collect pictures of covers from around the world.

Despite their weight and cumbersome nature, manhole covers are sometimes stolen, usually for resale as scrap, particularly when metal prices rise.

Because of concerns about unauthorized access to underground spaces, manhole covers may be locked down, or even temporarily spot-welded in place. This practice has become routine in some locales, as advance preparation for official parades and similar events attracting large crowds or important people

Because of their aerodynamic design, some modern racing cars create enough vacuum to lift a manhole cover off its recess. During races on city streets, manhole covers must therefore be welded or locked down to prevent injury.”

When the expert was asked about the manhole cover theft, he replied, “Manhole cover theft is the phenomenon of manhole covers being stolen, usually for resale as scrap. Long considered to be a childish prank or simple vandalism, this type of theft is often expensive to municipalities, and dangerous to their residents. In recent years, the theft of manhole covers for financial reasons (i.e. to sell them when scrap metal prices are high) has also become more common.

Manhole cover theft has become a serious problem in India and China, where missing manhole covers caused at least eight deaths in 2004. In the city of Calcutta, India more than 10,000 manhole covers were taken in two months. These were replaced with concrete covers, but these were also stolen, this time for the rebar inside them.

According to China's Xinhua News Agency, about "240,000 manhole and street-drain covers were stolen in Beijing in 2004."

In China Shakes the World, James Kynge describes the phenomenon:

...in the several weeks beginning in mid-February 2004, when, slowly at first but with mounting velocity, manhole covers started to disappear from roads and pavements around the world. As Chinese demand drove up the price of scrap metal to record levels, thieves almost everywhere had the same idea. As darkness fell, they levered up the iron covers and sold them to local merchants, who cut them up and loaded them onto ships to China. The first displacements were felt in Taiwan, the island just off China's southeast coast. The next were in other neighbors such as Mongolia and Kyrgyzstan... Wherever the sun set, pilferers worked to satisfy China's hunger. More than 150 covers disappeared during one month in Chicago. Scotland's "great drain robbery" saw more than a hundred vanish in a few days. From Montreal to Gloucester to Kuala Lumpur, unsuspecting pedestrians stumbled into holes.

In Newham, East London, nearly 200 grates and covers were stolen in 2004. In March and April 2012, Ajax, Ontario and Niagara Falls, Ontario had dozens of manhole covers stolen.”

Dinesh Kamath's Editorial 'Don’t practice ‘Secularism’ at the cost of majority community' that was published in Newsband

Don’t practice ‘Secularism’ at the cost of majority community

A big issue is being made about the churches having come under attack in recent weeks. The Bharatiya Janata Party appears to be torn between its role as a politically responsible ruling party, and its need to cater to its core Hindutva constituency.

We have - in our over zealous protection of minority community - not taken in to account the recent report on the thefts/attacks on religious establishments of other faiths. Around 213 temples, 65 Gurdwaras and 14 Mosques were burgled in Delhi in recent times. Only 3 similar attacks on Churches were made into an International news item making the U.S. President to lend his voice of caution on Majority Group in India

Which religion has been secular through the years? Christianity beckons that it is duty of all Christians to 'encourage' others to convert and become believers. Islam teaches all non-believers as 'infidels'. Only true eastern religions from the golden past accept personal choice in choosing any form or not as ones God - one can see that range from all forms to the formless in Hinduism. What is expected and practiced in India as secularism is mostly pandering to minorities at the cost of the majority

Secularism is not, but pseudo-secularism and communism is a policy option, given 60 years of history of Independent India. In fact it is the Government to be blamed since it supports "conversions organised by Christian missionaries" indirectly by sanctioning special treatment by many ways (like financial support, special social status and certain privileges) which includes legal representation too, to those who are enjoying life in the name of religious minorities.

Mainstream media has made secular an abusive term. The media responds strangely to different issues pertaining to different communities. There is definitely an aberration in terms of response/address by media. For example, the entire media vehemently opposes the controversial Gharvapasi organised by RSS. But they don’t display the same fervent and unequivocal response to the conversions organised by Christian missionaries. The media should maintain certainty in terms of addressing/reporting issues of similar kind pertaining to different communities. As per the recent report released by Delhi, 206 temples were vandalized and there was not a single report from the media. As soon as 3 churches were vandalized by burglars, media was very active in attributing this to majority community and ruling party which is not correct.

While 'secularism' may not be a policy option, neither is pseudo-secularism. Not only have minority rights to be protected but it has to be recognized once and for all that such a protection cannot be at the cost of the majority community. There is a persistent denial to understand the grievances of the Hindu community.

It is anti-Hindu perception of Congress party that led to its defeat. It is Congress party that failed to challenge the minority religion for burning the members of the majority religion in a railway compartment. Both majority and minority religions must follow the laws of the land. Making special reservations to benefit minority religions is a violation of Article 25 and can inflame majority.

Creating a fear psychosis about secularism being in danger will not help any secular cause. Why is the media and Christian clergy jumping the gun when a few churches are vandalized? Ten times more temples have been looted/vandalized. It is clear that the church has a lot to gain by giving communal color to the incidents.

The media should redefine this "secular" term. Secular description means equal rights to all. It is not just appeasing minorities practiced by most political parties for votes.

Dinesh Kamath's news 'The 2-day Science Utsav by NMSF gets good response' that was published in Newsband

The 2-day Science Utsav by NMSF gets good response

By Dinesh Kamath

VASHI: Navi Mumbai Science Foundation (NMSF) in association with Shree Gujarati Samaj and Maharashtra Academy of Sciences conducted a two day Science Utsav on 21 and 22 February 2015 at Gujarat Bhavan, Vashi.

The first day of the event was dedicated to one day teachers' conference. The event witnessed the presence of dignitaries like Dr. S. Kailas Rajaramanna fellow, BARC. Dr. Tulsi Mukherjee, SSCSSN, DDU, Nadiad, Dr. S.P. Khened,  Director NSC, Prof. G. Nagarjuna, HBCSE and Prof. Prabhu from Wilson College. The conference was attended by nearly 60 teachers (30 from NMMC schools) who presented essays on the topic of the conference namely "Collaborative learning as a teaching learning method". Mr. S.P. Agarwal, convener of the conference said that the conference concluded with a positive note highlighting the benefits of collaborative learning for science education.

On the second day young students of class 6 to 9 presented their experiments to the public in the Exhibition of Science experiments. The exhibition was inaugurated by Mr. Dinkar Limaye Rt. Chief Engineer of Mumbai Port Trust. Premier institutions like HBCSE, Mankhurdh, Mumbai, NSC, Worli Mumbai, BNHS, Mumbai, and Origami, Thane had stalls that demonstrated various principles of physics, Maths, Arts and Environmental Science.

In the contest, the exhibit named Water Powered crane From NMMC School 77 was adjudged the best exhibit. The four second position prizes were received by Dnyan Vikas School, Euro School, NMMC School No.7 and New Horizon Public School for Total Internal Reflection, Waste Management, Fermat's Principle and Electromagnet.

The students and guiding teachers of the NCSC projects that made it to National and State levels have been awarded a prize by NMSF. The prizes for Essay Competition winners were also given away during the closing function. Dr. A.M. Bhagwat, Chairman NMSF said that events like these develop healthy competition among students and bring out the best of collaborative efforts from them.

Dinesh Kamath's news 'Nirankari Baba Hardev Singh Ji Maharaj’s 61st birthday celebrated on 23 Feb' that was published in Newsband

Nirankari Baba Hardev Singh Ji Maharaj’s 61^st birthday celebrated on 23 Feb

By Dinesh Kamath

(Above) Picture of Nirankari Baba Hardev Singh Ji Maharaj

NAVI MUMBAI: February 23, 2015, was the birthday of Nirankari Baba Hardev Singh Ji Maharaj’s 61^st birthday and His devotees celebrated the day as Guru Puja Diwas with great devotion and dedication.

Ahead of the auspicious day, on Sunday 22 February, the Sant Nirankari Charitable Foundation (SNCF) carried out a country-wide cleanliness drive described as ‘Swachh Pani – Swasth Prani’ i.e. ‘Clean Water – Healthy Being’.

In Navi Mumbai, Panvel and Uran Cities thousands of devotees trooped out of their houses in the wee hours of the morning, equipped with cleaning equipments to clean up several public places as also to plant trees at prominent places. The places included (1) Sagar Vihar (Vashi) cleaning and tree plantation (2) Talao at Turbhe Gaon, Chincholi Talao at Shirwane and Talao at Nerul Sector 18 (3) Various colonies around the Satsang Bhavan at Sanpada (4) Agroli Gaon Talao at CBD Belapur (5) Kalamboli Bus Depot (6) Khandeshwar Talao and colonies near Shankar Mandir at New Panvel and (7) New English School, Hanuman Koliwada Marathi School at Uran and colonies near Satsang Bhawan at Uran Koliwada.

All the activities were carried out with due permission, cooperation and support of the local authorities. While visiting the campaign at Nerul Palm Beach Talao Deputy Mayor of Navi Mumbai Ashok Gawade appreciated the Missions services towards humanity.

On 24 February the members of the Sant Nirankari Sewa Dal held rallies and organized special congregations to highlight the message of the Mission. 

Video: Dinesh Kamath and Teddy talk to the audience

Dinesh Kamath's news 'APMC gets 2nd prize in Fruit & Vegetable Category yet again' that was published in Newsband

APMC gets 2nd prize in Fruit & Vegetable Category yet again

By Dinesh Kamath (As shared by Dr Jayakar Ellis)

Above: - The award winning picture

NAVI MUMBAI: The Agriculture Produce Market Committee, Mumbai (APMC) got the 2nd prize in the Fruit & Vegetable Category (Classification 4 & 5) at the NMMC’s 9th Fruits, Plants, Vegetables & Flower Exhibition held from 20-22nd February 2015 at Wonders Park, Nerul, Navi Mumbai for the second time in a row.

“The above was possible with the kind cooperation of Mr. Saunik Chairman, Mr. Shivaji Pahinkar,  - Secretary, Mr. Avinash Deshpande- OHD, V B Biradar - Supdt. Engineer, Mr. Makode – Deputy Secty, Mr. Matore - Deputy Secretary and the employees of APMC. We were so delighted to see so many visitors especially children who asked us so many questions regarding fruits and vegetables” said Mr. J A Watane- Environment Assistant. 

Dinesh Kamath's news 'Conference at VEKA India Pvt Ltd' that was published in Newsband

Conference at VEKA India Pvt Ltd

By Dinesh Kamath

There will be a conference to announce future plans, strategic operations, showcasing of its state of art products and to commemorate ten years of presence in India by Veka, represented by Andreas Hartleif, Group CEO and Managing Director, VEKA AG and Rajesh Chawla, Director, VEKA India on Tuesday, February 24, 2015, from 5.30 pm onwards at Veka India Pvt. Ltd, Mahape, MIDC, TTC Ind. Area, Navi Mumbai.

For more information contact: Harshala Nayak / Kiran Rao on 9619700161 / 9619700164.

Video: Dinesh Kamath at Kailash Gindodia's RMC Plant/Quarry at Ulwe

Dinesh Kamath presents pictures of 'Famous Kamaths and Kamats'

Famous Kamaths and Kamats

Dinesh Kamath's Editorial 'Only space technology can take India to a great height' that was published in Newsband

Only space technology can take India to a great height

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said, ''Our space scientists have made us global leaders in one of the most complex areas of modern technology.'' He was all praise for the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). He had also said that  India must share “the fruits of our technological advancement with those who do not enjoy the same.” He called for the development of a “SAARC [South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation] satellite” that would provide useful applications and services to neighbouring countries.

Today, India is able to build and launch satellites for meteorology, earth observation and communications. Modi had paid a tribute to the vision with which the space programme was established, pointing out how modern communications, space imaging and disaster management capabilities provided by Indian satellites had benefited the common man and transformed policy planning and implementation.

The SAARC satellite proposal made by Modi is the best way to defend China’s bullying on India and to maintain healthy relationship with our other neighbouring countries. More satellites need to be launched to keep an edge over China.

ISRO has done well so far but let us not sit on our laurels. India has to make many further leaps in space technology to be in the same league as the US. The gaps in achievements are significant and need to be closed. India must develop space science for people's benefit ad apply space technology to defend the nation. In future wars, who dominates space, dominates information and thus wins wars. Anti-satellite weapons (Missiles with space reach) should also form part of the strategy.

Just the benefits to weather prediction and its human implications should be enough to justify the Indian space program, even without taking into account other benefits such as communications and educational applications. Such "innovation" is not a "joke". This is the kind of innovation which limited casualties in the last cyclone in Odhisa to less than 20 from thousands just a decade and a half ago. Saving thousands of life is anything but a "joke".

ISRO has time and again proved its capability to expand its capabilities. Space technology as a diplomatic outreach is a very good thought and needs to be commended. Many of the SAARC countries are disaster-prone and we could help them harness the space technology for disaster mitigation. Space technology is making people's lives better and safe.

Dinesh Kamath's news 'Marine Carnival at VIBGYOR High, Airoli' that was published in Newsband

Marine Carnival at VIBGYOR High, Airoli

By Dinesh Kamath

AIROLI: VIBGYOR High, Airoli organised a two-day ‘Marine Carnival’ in the school premises on February 20-21, 2015 from 10am-3pm. The carnival replicated fun adventures in a Marine world for children and visitors to enjoy, infused with learning and activities. The event was open for general public to attend and witnessed a footfall of over 2,000 people including children from local schools, parents and friends.

The Marine-themed Carnival organised in the school showcased multiple thrilling activities like Under water adventure, Insight into Polar region, Activity zone, Puppet show, Movie theatre, Artists’ corner, Book Fair and a lot more. All the activities were underlined with fun filled learning through information corners and amazing facts about the marine world which echoed the VIBGYOR High form of integrated learning. The parents and children were equally captivated with the experience of the entire Carnival and representation of nature’s beauty through such creative mediums of engagement and learning.

Mrs. Vanita Gambhir, Principal, VIBGYOR High, Airoli said, “At VIBGYOR High, we focus on integrated learning as a teaching methodology for the overall development of the child. Marine Carnival is one such attempt to display our creative skills, while also introduce and educate the visitors about one of the precious gifts of nature.”

VIBGYOR High's journey towards education excellence began in 2004 with an ideal mix of academic and corporate professionals who felt the shared need to provide inclusive education. At VIBGYOR High, the students are challenged with a unique educational experience which emphasizes a seamless blend of academics, sports, performing arts, community and experiential learning programmes.

About VIBGYOR High Group of Schools:

Founded in 2004, VIBGYOR High is one of the leading chains of schools in India known for its quality education and academic excellence. Ranked second in the ICSE board, 2014, the institution offers a unique range of world-class educational services for the holistic development of students in curricular and co-curricular studies. Under the leadership of Mr. Rustom Kerawalla, Chairman and Managing Director of the institution, VIBGYOR High is set to draw new horizons with 21 schools in seven major cities, reaching out to more than 24,000 students nationwide. VIBGYOR High caters to the students from Pre-primary to Grade 12, with a student teacher ratio of 1:10 for Primary and 1:24 for Secondary level. A diverse experiential and integrated learning programme is the key highlight of VIBGYOR’s curriculum. VIBGYOR High provides a mixed spectrum of national and international levels of University education such as ICSE, CBSE and University of Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) and A-levels.

Dinesh Kamath's news 'The 9th NMMC Fruits, Plants, Vegetables & Flower Exhibition' that was published in Newsband

The 9th NMMC Fruits, Plants, Vegetables & Flower Exhibition

By Dinesh Kamath

Above picture: from left- Mr Dinesh Waghmare, Municipal Commissioner, Mr Sagar Naik, Mayor, Ex MP Dr Sanjeev Naik, Mr Rode, Horticulturist and Dr. Jayakar Ellis, Heart Foundation inaugurating the Exhibition  

NERUL: The 9th NMMC Fruits, Plants, Vegetables & Flower Exhibition was inaugurated at the hands of Mr Sagar Naik, Mayor of Navi Mumbai on 20 February 2015 at Wonders Park, Nerul, Navi Mumbai. The above Exihibition is being supported by Heart Foundation through their Social Initiative called Sow a “SEED” (Save Earth from Eternal Damage). The event will go on till 22 February 2015. For details call 8080007777

Dinesh Kamath's news 'Marine Carnival' that was published in Newsband

Marine Carnival

By Dinesh Kamath

VIBGYOR High of Airoli believes in the motto – ‘Enthuse / Enlighten / Empower’ and will be organizing the ‘Marne Carnival’ A fun-filled Marine world with learning activities hosted by the School (Free Entry for General Public)

Event Details:

Information corner – Amazing facts around the marine world and available species, Puppet show, Movie theatre, Under water adventure, insight into Polar region, Activity Zone, Artists’ Corner and a lot more

Date and Day: 21 February 2015 (Saturday)

Time: 10 am to 3 pm

Venue: VIBGYOR High, Plot no. 114, Sector no. 8A, Opp. Newa Height, Airoli, Thane, Navi Mumbai – 400 708

Dinesh Kamath's news 'Get Bowled over by Cricket fever at Inorbit Mall, Vashi' that was published in Newsband

Get Bowled over by Cricket fever at Inorbit Mall, Vashi

By Dinesh Kamath

(Above) Picture of Inorbit Mall, Vashi

Inorbit Vashi brings you a very interesting variation ‘Hit & Run’ of India’s most favourite sport, cricket.

Players of the game will be given total of 18 balls and a time limit of 30 seconds. There will be a hit & run board placed that will have various runs scoring zones and the numbers on them will be rotational. The front and back of the board will have different numbers. The player will have to score the target number of scores in the given limit of time. On shopping of just Rs 1500 shoppers can play this interesting game and win exciting gifts and vouchers.To add to that, there is a cooking and mocktail making workshop by British Brewing Company for food lovers.

So Hurry! Be a part of cricket mania this World Cup season and try your hand at this new fun cricket game only at Inorbit Malls, Vashi!

Hit and Run Timing – 12 noon to 8pm

Cooking Workshop – 3 pm to 6 pm

Hit and Run Dates – 21st- 22ndFebruary and 28th- 1st March 2015

Cooking workshop – 21st- 22nd February

Dinesh Kamath's Editorial 'India should be extremely careful of China' that was published in Newsband

India should be extremely careful of China

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj came back from her three-day visit to China with several deliverables. Her trip was part of preparations for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit later in the year. As reported in the Chinese media, President Xi himself has set the agenda for taking bilateral ties to a new level by suggesting that the two countries seize the “opportunity of the century” by combining their development strategies.

It is possible that China is focussing on the Indian market. It also appears willing to invest, following Prime Minister Modi’s “Make in India” call. We will have to wait and see how Modi and Xi will behave when it comes to the decades-old boundary dispute that keeps surfacing during major bilateral visits.

It seems that President Barack Obama’s successful visit to India around Republic Day has not dampened Beijing’s willingness to take relations with Delhi to the next level. Interestingly, India while talking to the U.S. and its other allies in the Asia-Pacific about safety in the sea-lanes, has agreed to set up a “consultation mechanism” on Asia-Pacific affairs with China and Russia.

Now along with Boundary dispute there is no harm if we concentrate on Trade imbalance with China too. In this healthy environment we need to increase our export to gain more profit from our relations. We should understand the strategy of China. China uses India as a Market for its product by keeping aside boundary dispute.

India doesn't trust any of its neighbouring countries who have borders with it such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, China...etc. All India's friendly countries are thousands of miles away such as Australia, USA and some Western countries. USA is a friend to India because Americans just want to counter China.

As time has proved umpteen times, the yellow man always smiles on your face and peels your skin aback. Never has it gone false. Let it be the Tibetan issue or so with that with its neighbours, they still believe that one can bully another into her lines. China's words can never be believed and we need to see progress in action on the ground before committing to anything with them. On the question of resolving the boundary dispute, the Chinese have never been interested in that because they feel that time is on their side due to the growing disparity between our two nations with every passing day. They are waiting therefore to strike a hard bargain at the most appropriate time chosen by them to achieve greatest benefit for themselves. India must play a careful game, a reverse non-alignment perhaps. That is, we will align with both the groups, the Asian pivot of the US and the emerging Russia-China axis to gain maximum benefits for us at the least risk while protecting our own interests. This is a very high-stakes and dangerous game. We have no other option.

It will be very interesting to see how India balances both US and China simultaneously. While US wants to tackle China by coming close to India, China wants to surpass US in each and every sector and its interest will be best safeguarded only by keeping India away from US. India can’t easily trust a country which has always supported Pakistan, vetoed against India in the UN and trade cannot happen under shadows of guns.

Everything regarding China and India being good partners is illusion. It’s China who has been profiting maximum from India-China trade hence its not at disadvantage to China since they are making profit out of such country who take them as enemy and also help their economy.

Dinesh Kamath’s movie column ‘New movies released in Navi Mumbai’ (Wild, Badlapur, Qissa, Whiplash, Monsoon and Dilliwali Zaalim Girlfriend) that was published in Newsband

New movies released in Navi Mumbai

By Dinesh Kamath

Wild

Wild is a 2014 American biographical drama film directed by Jean-Marc Vallée, written by Nick Hornby, and based on Cheryl Strayed's 2012 memoir Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail. The film stars Reese Witherspoon as Strayed, alongside Laura Dern (as Strayed's mother), with Thomas Sadoski, Michiel Huisman and Gaby Hoffmann among several others in supporting roles.

The film has an interesting plot. In 1995, Cheryl Strayed decides to hike more than a thousand miles of the Pacific Crest Trail alone as a way to heal herself following her divorce, the death of her mother, and years of reckless, destructive behavior.

The film presents a multi-linear narrative, presenting events from Cheryl's hike in chronological order, with frequent flashbacks to earlier points in her life, featuring her (as a child, teenager, and young adult), her mother and brother, her former husband, and other people she has known.

Badlapur

Badlapur is an Indian neo-noir action crime drama film directed by Sriram Raghavan and produced by Dinesh Vijan and Sunil Lulla. The film stars Varun Dhawan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui in lead roles, with Huma Qureshi, Yami Gautam, Divya Dutta and Radhika Apte in supporting roles.

Raghav a.k.a Raghu is a man with a past. He witnessed his wife and son being killed during a robbery. 15 years later, Raghu finds out who pulled the trigger to kill his family and the journey begins.

Badlapur is a dark crime drama with an interesting game of taking action and responsibility, of being able to and not being able to forgive and make sacrifices. The film delivers a top-notch thriller, which shows how a happy man’s life changes into an unstable emotional state, and the twist becomes a part of the formula.

The film has Varun Dhawan as Raghu, Nawazuddin Siddiqui as Liak, Huma Qureshi as Jhumli, Yami Gautam as Misha, Vinay Pathak as Harman, Divya Dutta as Shobha and Radhika Apte as Koko.

The soundtrack is composed entirely by Sachin-Jigar, while the lyrics are penned by Dinesh Vijan & Priya Saraiya. The film has songs like "Jee Karda" sung by   Divya Kumar, "Jeena Jeena" by Atif Aslam, "Jee Karda" (Rock Version) by Divya Kumar, "Judaai" by Rekha Bhardwaj and Arijit Singh, "Jeena Jeena" (Remix) by Atif Aslam and "Badla Badla" by Vishal Dadlani, Jasleen Royal and Suraj Jagan.   

Qissa

Qissa is a 2013 Indian-German drama film written and directed by Anup Singh. It was screened in the Contemporary World Cinema section at the 2013 Toronto International Film Festival where it won the Netpac Award for World or International Asian Film.

The movie has an interesting plot. Umber Singh, a Sikh after being displaced by the partition of 1947, has three daughters. He migrates to Punjab, India. Yet when his fourth daughter is born, he raises her as a boy, Kanwar Singh, who in times becomes a truck driver. However, when Kanwar Singh is married to a girl, Neeli, this gives birth to complications.

The film has Irrfan Khan as Umber Singh, Tillotama Shome as Kanwar Singh, Rasika Dugal as Neeli, Tisca Chopra, Faezeh Jalali and Sonia Bindra

Whiplash

Whiplash is a 2014 American drama film written and directed by Damien Chazelle based on his experiences in the Princeton High School Studio Band. The film stars Miles Teller as a student jazz drummer who seeks the respect of a fearsome teacher played by J. K. Simmons. It also stars Paul Reiser and Melissa Benoist.

Monsoon

Monsoon is a 2014 Canadian documentary film by Sturla Gunnarsson about the monsoon weather system in India. The film was shot in India in the extra-high-definition 4K format with Red Epic cameras. The film was included in the list of "Canada's Top Ten" feature films of 2014. Subsequently the film finished first in the audience balloting, of the features in "Canada's Top Ten".

From this movie we learn superficially about the vast importance of this annual weather phenomenon to India’s people, agriculture and economy.

Considered “the soul of India,” monsoon season provides the majority of that vast nation’s drinking and farming water. (A minority comes from mountain snow melt.) But while the rain may fall anywhere throughout the subcontinent, it can’t be counted on to fall anywhere in particular — we meet people at a refugee camp who’ve been forced to relocate themselves and their livestock from areas facing a ruinous fourth straight year of drought. Too much rain can also be harmful: Gunnarsson’s favorite interviewee here, 12-year-old Akhila, lives with her family below sea level in the southern state Kerala. When the year brings record rainfall, subsequent flooding is a disaster for their entire village.

We also visit fishermen for whom the storms can greatly increase haul but also endanger their lives. Taking a different kind of risk on monsoon quirks is Bishnu Shastri, a colorful Calcutta bookie who accepts bets on where, when and how much rain will fall. A visit to a wildlife preserve reveals that for hippopotami and other endangered species, the season is dangerous as well. When waters rise, they tend to flee to less-protected, higher-ground areas where poachers await, drawn by the outrageous prices copped by such rare items as rhino-horn powder (an alleged aphrodisiac).

Gunnarsson observes government meteorologists and others charged with predicting the weather as best instinct and science can manage — a premature or false prediction can roil the stock market and cost jobs. Film star Moushumi Chatterjee, who starred in the 1971 hit “Manzil,” swans about discussing the romantic role that monsoons often play in Indian pop culture.

  

Dilliwali Zaalim Girlfriend

Dilliwali Zaalim Girlfriend is a Romance Comedy film directed by Japinder Kaur, produced by Tarnpreet Singh JAP FILMS LLC and written by Manu Rishi.The film features Divyendu Sharma, Jackie Shroff, Kader Khan, Ira Dubey, Pradhuman Singh and Prachi Mishra.

The film has Divyendu Sharma, Jackie Shroff, Kader Khan, Ira Dubey, Pradhuman Singh and Prachi Mishra.

Dilliwali Zaalim Girlfriend is the story of two innocent friends, Dhruv (Divyendu Sharma) - an aspirant IAS officer and Happy (Pradhuman Singh), who is a happy go lucky fun guy. Life becomes a depressing mess for them from the time Dhruv takes a private loan from a company where Sakshi (Prachi Mishra), the girl Dhruv loves, works for Mr. Dhansukh (Kader Khan). He in fact buys a car from the loan just to woo her too. There starts their encounter right from today's super materialistic girls (where money comes above love), the finance company, the system and many more on the way, remains pretty Zaalim; leaving them to sort their problems on their own. Despite all the crooks they face, Dhruv and Happy along with another friend of theirs Nimmy (Ira Dubey), get together taking matters in their own hands, expose one of the biggest rackets underlying in Delhi. Though Dhruv buys the car to woo the girl who could never be his, in the process to get it back, he finds the right girl who was always out there next to him – Nimmy.

The soundtrack for the film is produced by T-Series. This a complete Hip Hop album. There are two special numbers by Honey Singh titled Birthday Bash and by Dr. Zeus titled Tipsy Hogae. Zaalim Dilli is a song by Jazzy B featuring Hard Kaur. Other album artists include Arijit Singh, Sunidhi Chauhan, Kamal Khan, Agni and Alfaaz.