Corruption in India

Graft is becoming a bigger problem—and the government should tackle it  

 

INDIANS’ anger over rising corruption has reached feverish levels. What people are calling a “season of scams” includes the alleged theft of billions by officials behind last year’s Commonwealth games in Delhi; $40 billion in revenues lost from the crooked sale of 2G telecoms licences; and over $40 billion stolen in Uttar Pradesh alone from schemes subsidising food and fuel for the poor. Foreign businessmen, who have slashed investment over the past year, rank graft as their biggest headache behind appalling infrastructure. Now India’s anti-corruption chief has been forced out over, well, corruption.
Graft is hardly new in India: the Bofors scandal brought down the government in 1989. But there seems to be more of it about than ever, if only because India is getting richer fast, and the faster the economy grows, the more chances arise for mind-boggling theft. The government says that in the next five-year plan period, which starts next year, $1 trillion will be spent on roads, railways, ports and so on, with billions more on re-equipping the armed forces and welfare. Add in an insatiable appetite for scarce land, water and minerals and a monsoon of bribes is forecast.
Some are inclined to shrug their shoulders. After all, corruption does not seem to be stopping India from growing. Yet imagine how much better the country would be doing without it. Corruption raises costs not just to Indians, but also to the foreigners whose capital India needs. Thanks in part to those scandals, India’s stockmarket was the worst-performing outside the Muslim world over the past year.

 

 

To its credit, the government has begun to take action against powerful individuals. Maharashtra state’s chief minister was forced out over a property scandal. Police have quizzed Suresh Kalmadi, the politician who ran the Commonwealth games. Most strikingly, Andimuthu Raja, the cabinet minister who oversaw the 2G telecom licences, was arrested.
A 2005 act giving the right to information is welcome, as are auctions for public goods, such as last year’s lucrative sale of the 3G telecom spectrum. Technology is helping. In some states, bids for state contracts are being run online, allowing anti-corruption bodies to monitor them. Gujarat does this for all contracts over 500,000 rupees ($11,000). It also puts land records and death certificates online, cutting down on one form of petty graft. Websites, led by ipaidabribe.com, reveal the cost of graft by publicising the sums demanded for everything from registering a baby to fixing a broken water supply.
The central government should now implement a plan for a universal, computerised ID scheme. It would allow welfare payments to be paid into individuals’ bank accounts, hindering theft by state workers.

The licence Raj lives on
Most of all, India must redouble its efforts to liberalise. The state could outsource official tasks, cut red tape and sell wasteful and corrupt state-owned firms (why does the government make watches?). For all that the “licence Raj” was supposedly scrapped two decades ago, it can still take nearly 200 days to get a construction permit and seven years to close a business. Regulations are not, by and large, deterrents to corruption, but a source of it.

10 virtually instant ways to improve your life

 Many of our problems come from within our own minds. They aren’t caused by events, bad luck, or other people. We cause them through our own poor mental habits. Here are 10 habits you should set aside right away to free yourself from the many problems each one will be causing you.
 

 

• Stop jumping to conclusions. There are two common ways this habit increases people’s difficulties. First, they assume that they know what is going to happen, so they stop paying attention and act on their assumption instead. Human beings are lousy fortune-tellers. Most of what they assume is wrong. That makes the action wrong too. The second aspect of this habit is playing the mind-reader and assuming you know why people do what they do or what they’re thinking. Wrong again, big time. More relationships are destroyed by this particular kind of stupidity than by any other.
• Don’t dramatize. Lots of people inflate small setbacks into life-threatening catastrophes and react accordingly. This habit makes mountains out of molehills and gives people anxieties that either don’t exist or are so insignificant they aren’t worth worrying about anyway. Why do they do it? Who knows? Maybe to make themselves feel and seem more important. Whatever the reason, it’s silly as well as destructive.
• Don’t invent rules. A huge proportion of those “oughts” and “shoulds” that you carry around are most likely needless. All that they do for you is make you feel nervous or guilty. What’s the point? When you use these imaginary rules on yourself, you clog your mind with petty restrictions and childish orders. And when you try to impose them on others, you make yourself into a bully, a boring nag, or a self-righteous bigot.
• Avoid stereotyping or labeling people or situations. The words you use can trip you up. Negative and critical language produces the same flavor of thinking. Forcing things into pre-set categories hides their real meaning and limits your thinking to no purpose. See what’s there. Don’t label. You’ll be surprised at what you find.
• Quit being a perfectionist. Life isn’t all or nothing, black or white. Many times, good enough means exactly what it says. Search for the perfect job and you’ll likely never find it. Meanwhile, all the others will look worse than they are. Try for the perfect relationship and you’ll probably spend your life alone. Perfectionism is a mental sickness that will destroy all your pleasure and send you in search of what can never be attained.
• Don’t over-generalize. One or two setbacks are not a sign of permanent failure. The odd triumph doesn’t turn you into a genius. A single event—good or bad—or even two or three don’t always point to a lasting trend. Usually things are just what they are, nothing more.
• Don’t take things so personally. Most people, even your friends and colleagues, aren’t talking about you, thinking about you, or concerned with you at all for 99% of the time. The majority of folk in your organization or neighborhood have probably never heard of you and don’t especially want to. The ups and downs of life, the warmth and coldness of others, aren’t personal at all. Pretending that they are will only make you more miserable than is needed.
• Don’t assume your emotions are trustworthy. How you feel isn’t always a good indicator of how things are. Just because you feel it, that doesn’t make it true. Sometimes that emotion comes from nothing more profound than being tired, hungry, annoyed, or about to get a head-cold. The future won’t change because you feel bad—nor because you feel great. Feelings may be true, but they aren’t the truth.
• Don’t let life get you down. Keep practicing being optimistic. If you expect bad things in your life and work, you’ll always find them. A negative mind-set is like looking at the world through distorting, grimy lenses. You spot every blemish and overlook or discount everything else. It’s amazing what isn’t there until you start to look for it. Of course, if you decide to look for signs of positive things, you’ll find those too.
• Don’t hang on to the past. This is my most important suggestion of all: let go and move on. Most of the anger, frustration, misery, and despair in this world come from people clinging to past hurts and problems. The more you turn them over in your mind, the worse you’ll feel and the bigger they’ll look. Don’t try to fight misery. Let go and move on. Do that and you’ve removed just about all its power to hurt you.

10 useful application knowledge of laptop

1, Automatically records the time of open notepad In Notepad, we can record each time you open a text file, the method is: the first line in the file input “. LOG” (Note: must be uppercase!), And then began to wrap the body. So that after each time you open the file automatically SONY VAIO VGN-FZ180E battery,SONY VAIO VGN-FZ180EB battery when you close the file by appending the current time 2, Quick View the Offline Web Pages Need to have opened offline browsing a Web page, the traditional approach is based on a link online to open a link in order to find and open this page. Faster way is to add to Favorites this page, later in offline mode from the Favorites view this page. In fact, in order to create a shortcut to this page is the fastest way. In the browser’s address bar, open the front page of the site has a small icon, press the small icon with the mouse, drag it to the desktop, next to the desktop fast offline browsing of this web page. 3, Send email in a fast way In the “Start” menu, click the right mouse button and select “Open”, in the open window, click the right mouse button, select “New “—” Shortcut”, then “Please type the location of the item” box, enter “mailto:”, click “Next” in the “type the name SONY VAIO VGN-FZ180U battery,SONY VAIO VGN-FZ21M battery ,of the shortcut” box enter the name, click “Finish” button. Later you can just click this shortcut to create a new e-mail. If you frequently send e-mail to a friend, you can create a special friend for this shortcut. It said almost the same way. 4, Increase ring to Capslock Accidentally pressing Capslock input Chinese capital will be changes to the English, to this key plus a “bell” to worry much. Method is: Open the “Control Panel” and “accessibility” in the “keyboard” item, choose the “Use Toggle Keys.” 5, Using the Recycle Bin to encrypte a folder (1) First, click “My Computer → View → Folder Options”, select “Show all files”, a single “OK.” (2) into the system root directory, right-click the “Recycle Bin”, (that is called “Recycled” folder), in the pop-up dialog box, select the shortcut menu, “Enable thumbnail view mode”, then click “Apply” You will find that the system will automatically “read only” attribute is selected, you need to manually remove the “read only” attribute, and then click “OK.” Then you will find the icon into a folder like normal, then double click “Recycled” folder, find a file called “desktop.ini” in the initialization file, and activate it, you need to copy encrypted documents, SONY VAIO VGN-FZ21S battery ,SONY VAIO VGN-FZ21Z battery ,such as “d: \ MyFiles” folder below. (3) and then right-click the “d: \ MyFiles” folder, select Properties, in the pop-up dialog box, make sure “read only” attribute is selected, then the “Enable thumbnail view mode” check box is ticked before, then can be determined. 6, Manage the rights temporary Many programs are required during the installation process you have administrative privileges. Here are a regular user logged on to the case, the provisional allocation of management rights for their own simple way. Right-click the installation file at the same time hold down the “Shift” key. In the resulting shortcut menu, click “Run”, enter the appropriate administrative privileges with the user name and password. In this way the application on the Start menu applies. 7, Change the file date To modify XXX.exe (any exe files) the date, in the MS-DOS mode, type copy XXX.exe +,, (Note: The plus sign followed by two commas), SONY VAIO VGN-FZ210CE battery, ,SONY VAIO VGN-FZ440E battery ,are asked to type “Y” is changed to the current date. 8, Uninstall unwanted dynamic link Explorer often left unused in the memory dynamically linked, in order to eliminate this phenomenon, you can open the Registry Editor, set the key: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE \ SOFTWARE \ Microsoft \ Windows \ CurrentVersion \ EXPlorer \ AlwaysUnloadDLL = DWORD: 1 set it to 0, this function will be turned off. Note: To make the settings take effect, restart the computer. 9, Delete unwanted dll file system “HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE \ Software \ Microsoft \ Windows \ CurrentVersion \ sharedlls” record shared dll information behind the numbers indicate the current dll files shared by several applications, and if its value is 0, then, that it is redundant, you try to give it to delete 10, Delete unnecessary programs In the Control Panel’s “Add / Remove Programs” but can not find the document, you can use the following parties:: Click the “Start → Control Panel → Tools → Folder Options” in the View tab list hide branch files and folders, click on “Show hidden files and folders.” To edit the Add / Remove Windows Components SONY VAIO VGN-FZ440N battery,SONY VAIO VGN-FZ280BN battery,dialog box: First, to ensure that the necessary configuration can be restored to the initial state, before the operation at the beginning retained sysoc.inf file (located on the hard disk \ Windowst \ inf \ Sysoc.inf file folder) as a backup and the backup to specify a different name, such as Sysoc2.inf. Open Sysoc.inf file. Each line in the file represents a text can be in the Add / Remove Windows Components dialog box displays the component. For example: You can Pinball = ocgen.dll, OcEntry, pinball.inf, HIDE, 7 into Pinball = ocgen.dll, OcEntry, pinball.inf,, 7 save Sysoc.inf file, then close it and restart computer. After that, you go to Control Panel’s “Add / Remove” deleted from the Pinball game. Procedure is actually very simple, for those who want to see the components in the dialog box, delete the corresponding line SONY VAIO VGN-FZ340N battery , SONY VAIO VGN-FZ70B battery ,of text in a word HIDE (do not delete the comma). Note, however, this method can not remove the Fax Services and other core components of Win. Read more: http://www.battery-mart.co.uk/

Four Simple Rules for Buying Used Gear

I needed to replace my aging VHS camcorder, and I'd dropped enough coin on the holidays to put me in hock for the rest of 2006, so I decided to hunt for a bargain on something used.

Crutchfield's "Scratch and Dent" store had a Canon Optura 300 Mini-DV camcorder listed for $850. It certainly was tempting, but I thought I could do better. Just a little googling brought up the same model for $500 at a New York-based electronics dealer, but it was refurbished and the warranty was a bare-bones 90 days.

I was at a loss. Was I about to enter a world of pain? It turns out buying used can be a good deal, but only if you follow the rules.

Know your stores: Some sellers have special sections on their sites where they offer gear that buyers have returned. Others present used gear alongside new goods but usually label it "refurbished" or "factory reconditioned." Different sites use different terms, and products vary in condition, so investigate before you buy. Inventory and pricing vary wildly day to day; if you're looking for something specific, check back often.

Separate used from abused: Some used electronics are best avoided. Buying anything with lots of moving parts, like a multidisc changer, is a bad idea, says Phil Jones, director of technical support for Crutchfield in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Another bad idea: TV sets and monitors. Tubes fade, bulbs burn out, pixels die--and it could happen at any time. On the other hand, amplifiers, AV receivers, and some single-disc DVD players will hold their value, even if they don't offer the latest 6.1-channel home-theater experience. Used speakers can be a good choice, too, though they're generally not something you want to buy unseen--or unheard.

If you're purchasing a used computer, a handheld, or something similar, a smart cutoff is the device's age, says Gateway spokesperson Lisa Emard. Six months old is okay, but twelve months or more is not.

Scrutinize the warranty: The best protection is to buy reputable products from dealers who give you 30 days to change your mind, says Jones. Ideally, the product will come with the original manufacturer's warranty (usually at least a year), but many refurbished goods offer only 90 days. With the camcorder I wanted, if I had purchased it from the New York dealer, I could have added a four-year extended warranty from Canon for $150 and still paid far less than list in total.

An extended warranty is a great idea, says David Slavitt, CEO of Audio Visual Solutions in Montville, New Jersey. But if adding it brings the price to within 10 percent of a new product's cost, buying used makes little sense.

Price it right: Don't go higher than 80 percent--or below 50 percent--of what the device costs new, Jones recommends. Ignore this guideline, and you're paying too much money or taking too big a risk.

Beware of online stores that advertise superlow prices but try to sell essentials like power cords as "extras." Before you do business with a lowball dealer, check out the store's reputation on sites like Epinions.com, PriceGrabber.com, and ResellerRatings.com. Look for telltale patterns such as reports from buyers who tried to get the advertised price only to find that the gear was now out of stock.

You'll get the best prices from private sellers, many of whom sell via auction sites. Stick with sellers who meet the requirements for being part of the PayPal Buyer Protection program, which will reimburse you for up to $1000 if you get ripped off. The best strategy? Know who you're buying from--or, at least, know where they live--so you can try to work out a satisfactory deal if things turn sour.

I ended up not buying the camcorder. At $650 with the warranty, the deal was so good it looked fishy--and the store's online ratings confirmed my suspicions. Besides, I have my eye on this handheld satellite radio, and there's this PDA I like, and the cutest MP3 player.... I may just have to put them on this year's Christmas list. That's the best deal of all.

SpouseSpy Cell Phone Spy Software - Catch a Cheating Spouse!

Track EVERY text, EVERY call and EVERY Move Your Spouse Makes Using our EASY Cell Phone Spy Software!



Worried about your spouse cheating? Does your husband or wife have the sudden need for privacy? Are they making secretive phone calls or texts? Are they suddenly spending time away?

A cell phone plays a role in almost EVERY affair. So it's your best clue to reveal what they are really doing. If your spouse is cheating, monitoring cell phone usage will tell you everything you need to know.

Most of the time a cheating spouse will delete their call and text history so you can't see their true actions. They know the TRUTH will set you free. So how can you know the real truth?




Introducing SpouseSpy:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aapeuin44hk&feature=player_embedded



You have the right to know the TRUTH.



SpouseSpy is a hybrid software/service which allows you to monitor your husband or wife's smartphone in real time. This unique system records every activity they perform in real time. You will know the entire truth.

Install the application directly onto the device and it starts every time the phone is turned on. The invisible application remains stealth and doesn't show up in the running processes.

Silently records EVERYTHING including full SMS messages, call info, GPS locations, photos snapped, web sites visited, contacts added and more.

Logs are silently uploaded and stored in your private online account. Your account is accessible only by you from any web browser. Keep reading to learn what specific activities you'll be able to monitor.




You'll be able to see all these activities:
Every text message with full text even if the phone's logs are deleted.

Each incoming and outgoing call's number along with duration and time.

GPS postions captured at an adjustable rate with a link to a map.

Every new and active contact in the phone's Contacts list.

All inbound and outbound emails from the primary email account.

All website addresses visited using the phone's web browser.

All photos and videos taken by the phone in full size.




SpouseSpy is compatible with Android, BlackBerry and iPhone smartphones. For a complete list, check our compatible phones page. No compatible phone? A new one would make a nice gift.

Don't wait until it's too late. Get the proof you need very quickly. Order today to receive your username, password and access to installation instructions sent immediately to your email.


Learn the TRUTH and STOP Living a Nightmare!

Kindle Wireless Reading Device

http://www.gadgetworldonline.com/images/stories/kindlepdf.jpg

The all new wireless reading device called "Kindle" has now been released and is taking the world by storm.

We have had the chance to look over one and must also say we are more than happy with this device also. Sure it is not an Ipad.. but it simply is not in the same price bracket or category. The Kindle is PURELY a highly professional PDF Reader.

The new Kindle now hosts the following:

• All-New, High-Contrast E-Ink Screen – 50% better contrast than any other e-reader
• Read in Bright Sunlight – No glare
• New and Improved Fonts – New crisper, darker fonts
• Built-In Wi-Fi – Shop and download books in less than 60 seconds
• New Sleek Design – 21% smaller body while keeping the same 6" size reading area
• Battery Life of Up to One Month – A single charge lasts up to one month with wireless off
• Double the Storage – Up to 3,500 Books
• 17% Lighter – Only 8.5 ounces, weighs less than a paperback
• 20% Faster Page Turns – Seamless reading
• Enhanced PDF Reader – With dictionary lookup, notes, and highlights
• New WebKit-Based Browser – Browse the web over Wi-Fi (experimental)

The Kindle also comes in 3 types... the Kindle Wi.Fi, Kindle 3G + Wifi, and the Kindle DX, and all types offer a slightly upgraded version of the Kindle.

The Kindle Wi-Fi and the Kindle 3G+Wifi are both 6" diagonal in size, but the Kindle DX is 9.7" diagonal in size

Personally we enjoyed the 9.7" sized version simply because more of the book can fit on the page, but depending on your use or travel needs the smaller one might well be the best option.

The whole device only weighs a mere 8.5 ounces which is incredible, and the battery life can last sometimes up to a Month. After our tests we found we charged it after 3.5 weeks of use, using it for 3 hours per day. Of course, as per any computer of sort, if you use Wireless then it does reduce the battery time, but we were surprised that it wasn't by very much.

We have come to the conclusion that if you enjoy reading, then this is definitely a great little gadget, as it can hold over 3,500 books with ease, and as advertised with Amazon, you can indeed read it easily under any light, including sunlight.

Definitely read the reviews from the customers at Amazon, but this amazing pdf reader is definitely worth a look