Dussehra (Vijaya Dashami, Dasara, or Dashain) is a Hindu festival that celebrates the victory of good over evil. It is a gazetted holiday in India, which is marked on the 10th day of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the month of Ashvin (Ashwayuja), according to the Hindu calendar.Many people of the Hindu faith observe Dussehra through special prayer meetings and food offerings to the gods at home or in temples throughout India. They also hold outdoor fairs (melas) and large parades with effigies of Ravana (a mythical king of ancient Sri Lanka). The effigies are burnt on bonfires in the evening. Dussehra is the culmination of theNavaratri festival.
There are many local celebrations in some areas in India that can last for up to 10 days. Local events include:
- Performances of the Ramlila (a short version of the epic Ramayana) in Northern India.
- A large festival and procession including the goddess Chamundeshwari on a throne mounted on elephants in the town of Mysore in the state of Karnataka.
- The blessing of household and work-related tools, such as books, computers, cooking pans and vehicles in the state of Karnataka.
- The preparation of special foods, including luchi (deep fried flat bread) and alur dom (deep fried spiced potato snacks), in Bengal.
Many Hindus also believe that it is lucky to start a new venture, project or journey on Dussehra. They may also exchange gifts of leaves from the Shami tree (Prosopis spicigera) as a symbol of the story of the Pandavas brothers' exile in the Mahabharata stories.
Government offices, post offices and banks are closed in India on Dussehra. Stores and other businesses and organizations may be closed or have reduced opening hours. Those wishing to use public transport on the day may need to contact the local transport authorities to check on timetables.
Dussehra celebrates the Hindu god Rama's victory over the demon king Ravana and the triumph of good over evil. The epic Ramayana tells the mythical story of the Lord Rama who wins the lovely Sita for his wife, only to have her carried off by Ravana, the demon king of Lanka.
Ravana plays an important role in the Ramayana. Ravana had a sister known as Shoorpanakha. She fell in love with the brothers Rama and Lakshamana and wanted to marry one of them. Lakshamana refused to marry her and Rama could not as he was already married to Sita.
Shoorpanakha threatened to kill Sita, so that she could marry Rama. This angered Lakshamana who cut off Shoorpanakha's nose and ears. Ravana then kidnapped Sita to avenge his sister's injuries. Rama and Lakshamana later fought a battle to rescue Sita. The monkey god Hanuman and a huge army of monkeys helped them.
The Mahabharata is another series of Hindu myths that play a role in the Dussehra festival. The Pandavas were five brothers who fought evil forces with a set of distinctive weapons. They abandoned their weapons and went into exile for one year. They hid their weapons in a Shami tree and found them at the same place when they returned from exile. They then worshipped the tree before going to a battle, which they won. This epic is also commemorated during Dussehra.
Sriharikota is an island, situated on the National Highway No.5 to Chennai, Kolkata and a forest –like area to the east of Sullurupet in between Pulicat Lake and Bay of Bengal. The ancient residents of this island were Toorpu Reddis and Challa Yanadis. Who led a primitive way of life. Their staple diet was what Nature bestowed on them – Veduru biyyam (bamboo Manna), honey and different varieties of fruit and their homes were nest – like huts. This is the pictuare of people who lived there three centuries ago. In order to facilitate the construction of SHAR, all those people of bygone time had been rehabilitated in a little far away area and given special facilities Sulurupet area in the district has seen great development in the last 40 years after the advent of SHAR near by.
Under the stewardship of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai of the Indian Space Research Organisation of rocket lauching space Centre was Established at Sriharikota in 1968. The launching of a missile helps streamlining the study of tele-communications, TV, lights and environmental relationsships. The possibilities of a good harvest, how snowfall and clouds disappear, the information relating to impending floods and storms and similar natural calamiatiesm locating the mountains – the missile provides us with fore knowledge of all these happenings and enables us to take precautionary steps beforehand.
The ruins of Prabhagiripatnam lie on the Podalakuru Mohammadapuram at a distance of 45km. away from Nellore
The ruins of Prabhagiripatnam lie on the Podalakuru Mohammadapuram at a distance of 45km. away from Nellore. The ruins of the temple of Lord Siva and Perumallaswamy, which belonged to 1512A.D., remind the tourists of their former glory and excellence. An inscription denoting the royal gift(1512AD) of the Vijayanagara king Venkataryalu, is gathering dust at a place close to the temple of Perumallaswamy. This inscription enjoins that the income derived from the agricultural lands of the neighborhood should be spent for the upkeep of the temple. The sculptural and artistic pieces strewn around here have been recognised as the idols of Veerabhadraswamy, and Shanmugaswamy is that six heads, instead of being in a row are sculpted differently –there in the front and three in the rear.
Krishnapatnam:
Nellore District has 165k.m coastal line. Krishnapatnam, Ramayapatnam, Ramatheertham, Kodur, Mypadu, Thupilapalem etc., are some of the beaches. From out of which Krishnapatnam the port located place in the district. It is not a new port earlier it was flurished and famed but gradually becomes less importance due to some of factors. How ever, it is once again expected to emerge to its crown. There are Stratagic Plans to be develop industrial port City. Apart from this Dharmal power Station to be established, As a result and also due to lanching of various projects, the port city is expected to flurish in the near future as was seen in the olden day. It is located at about 25km. towards east form Nellore City.
ASpeta Dargha located at about 60 km. from Nellore City. A.S.Peta Stand for Anuma samudram Peta. There is a big Dargah here which is ancient and is known to be Khaja Rahamatulla Dargah. It is one of the unique place where Hindus and Muslims blend together and stand as an illustration of National integrity. Devoties from different parts of the Country used to come to this place without distinction. The ornamental work of thhe dome is worth to seen. Every year Urusu celebrated where large number of devoties gather here for blessings.
It is located at abovt 15 Km. from Nellore City which belongs to Venkatachalam Mandal. One of the Sage called Venkaiah lived earlier during middle of the 20th Century and got Mahasamadhi at this place. People worshiped them as Venkaiah Swamy or Baghavan Venkaiah Swamy, every Saturday there is a gathering to worship the Swamy. Similarly, during August every year “ Aradhana” or Annual function be celebrated where large number of devoties used to gether for the purpose of getting blessed. Devotees are provided free catering those who visited the Samadhi. It became one of the popular Pilgrim centre in the district.
The tomb of Syed karimulla Khadiri lies in Kasumuru village, which is situated on the west of Venkatachalam Mandal 35 km.away from Nellore. Devotees refer to him as kasumuru Msthanayya, agreat : Fakir” supposed to have belonged to 18th century. The ailing, the planet harassed, and the childs, worship at the fakir’s tomb. Every year, on the 26th day of the auspicious period of “kabbiul-aval”, “Urusu” (fair) is celebrated with fervour. One can reach the place by bus from Nellore.
The Temple of Sri Mulasthaneswara Swamy was built, 1400 years ago, to the west of Nellore. As the Lord manifested Himself under a “Nelli” tree, a temple was built there itself. Manumasidhi rulers constructed the “Raja Gopuram” (Royal tower of the temple). Legend goes that the poet Tikkana Somayaji translated Mahabhratam into telugu only after making his obeisance to the deity.
Malla village lies on the Nayudupeta – Duggarajupatnam road in the Chittamuru mandal and is 96 km away from Nellore. The temple was constructed by the Chola rulers of the 10th and 11th Centuries. The “Vasantala Mandapam” here is a shining example of sculpture of exllence. The “Vasantala Mandapam” is strikingly sculpted in the form of a chariot drawn by a pair of horses. Episodes and events from the epic of Ramayana and Siva puranam have been sculpted splendidly on the pillars of the Mandapam. The Veera Kallulu “ of the veera saivas are also found here. The 64 pillars of the Vasantha Mandapam are tastefully decorated with pictures pf creepers and tales from Ramayanam, Bharatham and Bhagavatam. Many lovely sculptures adorn the sides and lower part of the Mandapam. The temples of the consorts of Subramanyaswamy – Sri Valli, Her encourage abd Devaseba lie in the inner “Prakaram” (compound wall) and opposite the “ Dwaram” (entrance) of Subraanyaswami Idol.
Nelapattu bird sanctuary is one of the largest Pelicanary in South East Asia with more than 1500 pelicans
Nelapattu bird sanctuary is one of the largest Pelicanary in South East Asia with more than 1500 pelicans and other birds visiting every year. The Sanctuary is very near to the National High way -5.The big fresh water tank of Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary and the presence of good number of “ Barringtonia Acutangula” trees which can tolerate inundation for longer periods in the tank bed and fore shore area make this sanctuary a heaven for a broad spectrum of Bird species for both breeding and roosting purposes. Many winter migratory birds from Siberian countries are visiting this sanctuary since & long time. It is a breeding ground for some of the rare and endangered species like Grey Pelicans, Open-billed storks, Little cormorants, Sponbills, white ibies, Night Herons etc., A wide variety of birds, like Egrets, Tern, Ducks, Waders etc., rest here.
There is an Environmental Education Centre in the Sanctuary with a Museum, Library and Auditorium with audio Visual Equipment for screen slides, Films etc., on wild life watch towers are also aavailable to watch the birds at the Sanctuary.
Pulicat Lake is the second largest brakish water lagoon in India spread over the two States of Andhra Pradesh and Tamilanadu adjacent to the Bay of Bengal. It extends over six hundred squire kilometers in Andhra Pradesh covering the five Mandals of Tada, Sullurupet, Doravari satram, Chittamur, Dugarajupatnam of Nellore District.
It is a bird watchers paradise. Water birds and other birds like Flamingoes, Painted storks, Egrets, Grey Pelican, Grey herons, pintails, Black winged stilts, Shovelers, Terns etc., Visit this lake . These migratory birds visit during winter as the lake offers food and protection from predators. The lake was notified as a Bird Sanctuary in 1976. vide G.O.U/s 18 wild life (protection) Act.
Further the lake is connected to the National High Way, and is only 80 Km. from Chennai. It is also very near to the Sriharikota Atomic Missile Range (S.H.A.R).
Udayagiri Fort which is Located about 100 kms. From Nellore. Udayagiri Fort commanding at a hight of 3079 feet. Boasts of great natural beauty. The hill side has lush vegetation and beautiful waterfalls. The ruined fort is attracting the Tourists in a big way. However, the acccess is only by steps and there is no road to the Fort. During the rule of the Gajapathis and the Vijayanagar Rulers, this Town grew to great splendour. The ruins of 365 Temples found in the Town reflected the sculputure and archetecture of various periods. The structure on the hill such as the Ranganatha Temple reflects Chola culture, the Balakrishna Mandiram reflects Pallava culture and the Paruveta Mandapam reflects Vijayanagara Culture. Other structures include Chinna Masjid and pedda Masjid. A great
Sufi Saint belonging to the 18th Century. Rahamathulla Nayab Rasool got absorbed in the higher selfhere. Every year the Sandal Festival is celebreated on the 26th of Rabi-UI-Aval month.
The Hill of Udayagiri is also popularly known a Sanjeevi Hills as there are so many medicinal plants on the hill. This place can be developed on par with Golconda Fort of Hyderabad. It is possible to introduce attraction like Light and Sound Show etc.,
Kandaleru Dam which is located about 60 kms away form Nellore. The destination is also well connected for State Highway from Nellore to Kadapa via Rapur & Rajampet. It was constructed across the Kandaleru river. This river originates in Velegonda hills and it flows across Gudur . This being World’s Biggest Earth Dam with 68 TMC Water Storage spread over 11 kilometre which is supplying Drinking water to Tamilanadu is a Pictorious Spot with Hillocks and Forest around. One Government Guest house has constructed with 4 suites, Meeting hall and a Dnining hall with kichen for official purpose. It attracts many pilgrims. The Dam is a part of Rapur Mandal.
Somasila is one of the biggest Irrigation Project in the District. The project is envisaged to create Irrigation potential. It is constucted across River Pennar and is situated near Somasila Village of Ananthasagaram Mandal, Nellore District. Since it is located in eastern ghats situated at the out skirts of the district, natural beauty is nose worthy. There is a temple in the village called Someswara Temple blessed by the Lord Siva on the other side of River Pennar an Ashram is situated. Tourist Population including school children are gradually increasing owing to its importance. It can be developed as a Very good Tourist Centre.
Goddess Chengalamma Parameswari manifested Herself in the village of Sullurupet which lies 100Km. away from Nellore on the Kolkata-Chennai highway and the temple for Her was built on the bank of the Kanlangi river. History tells us that it was established during the fourth and fifth centuries. People also refer to her as the village goddess “Tenkali”. With the passage of time, she is being worshipped regularly by devotees as Chengalamma. Devotees turn up in large number to witness “Chengalamma Jatara” (fair).
The Village goddess who was called Tankali gained reputation as Sullurupet Chengalamma Thalli and her idol in the temple faces the sea. Devotees from different parts of the State visit the place and fulfil their vows, refering the goddess as the mother who grants boons liberally. The naturally-formed image of the goddess adorning the hanging roots (vooda) of the banyan tree is really an awe-inspiring spectacle.
Alghu Malluru Krishna Swamy temple is existing in the Mannarpoluru Village, right from the time of Telugu Chola rulers. The village is close-by to Sullurupet, at a distance of 103 Km. from Nellore. It was built in the 17th century by Bangaru Yadama Nayudu, the living place of mallayodas or wrestlers. According to a legend, it was here that Lord Sri Krishna defeated Jambavantha in a duel and married his daughter Jambavati and that Lord MahaVishnu deflated the bloated ego of Garutmata here alone. Apart from the idol of Satyabhama and Jambavati, the two consorts of Lord Krishna, the idol of Jambavantha creating the illusion of shedding tears are bound to amaze the viewers. One cannot help marvelling at the sculptural splendour exuded by the idols of the beauties.
This is a very ancient sacred place (pilgrim centre). Lord Narasimha manifested Himself here as a huge of rock in “Yoga mudra” (in an entwined contemplative posture) and hence it acquired the name of “Penusila” (huge rock) and in course of time became famous as “Penchalakona”. Legend has it that after slaying the demon Hiranya Kasipa, Lord Narsimha bathed in Penchalakona and withdrew that “Avatara”(incarnation) of Narasimha, shedding His anger and ferocity. The Lord here goes by the name of Somasila Narasimhaswamy and has become one of the Nava Narasimhas (nine manifestations). People belive that because the sage Kanva resided in this area in the past, the river flowing here acquired the name Kanva Nadi and that with efflux of time it became Kandaleru. It is also learnt that the temple was renovated in the 10th century.
Penchalkona lies at the foothills of Veligondalu (mentioned earlier), at a distance of 80 km., from Nellore. Narasimha Jayanthi is celebrated every year in the month of May and devotees flock specially on Saturday. The Devestanam choultries provide facilities to the piligrims and there is bus service too.
Vedagiri Lakshmimarasimha Swamy devastanam came into being nearly 500 years ago, on the summit of Narasimhakonad. According to the rock inscriptions, this temple was built by the Pallava king Narsimha Varma in the ninth century. Legend goes that the sage Kasyapa established the temple on the bank of Pinakini. And the vedic scripture “Brahmapurana” reveals that the seven sages (Saptarishis) performed “yagnam” (Sacrifice) on the top of Narasimhakonda. The seven (Koneru) tanks were renovated with Mandapas on the hilltop . The holy place lies 15Km. away from Nellore, on the southern bank of the river Pinakini. Every year “Brahmotsavams” are celebrated here in the month of May. Jonnawada is to the north of the river.
Mallikarjuna Swamu kamakshi tai temple, Jonnawada which is located about 12 kms from Nellore. The destination is also well connected for Railway station at Nellore. A famous Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Kamakhsi tai temple is located on the bank of river Pennar, 12 Km from Nellore. It attracts many piligirims. The Village is part of Buchireddipalem Mandal. In tretayuga Mahamuni Kasyapa Brahma performed yagna and pleased Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy thus this place is named as ‘Yagnavatika Jonnawada’. Sri Mallikarjuna Swamy Kamakhsi tai grant to the innumerable devotes their desires, as their God head. Since then he continues conferring boons and his blessings on his devotees. This temple is constructed in the year 1150( Tretayuga). The goddess Kamkshi is belived as an incarnation of Shakti. A ‘Sri Chakram’ was installed here by Sri Jagadguru Sankaracharya. Pilgrims take a holy dip in the lake known as Kachpateertham, near the temple, which washes away all their bad karma. Brahma Rushi Sri Kashyap Mahamuni visited Bhoolokam (The Earth) and wanted to perform Yagna and chosen north of vedadri as Yagna Vatika (place to perform yagna) After successful completion of the Yagna a bright light appeared. It has spread over the whole bhoolokam. Later Lord Eswara appeared as Lord Mallikarjuna, who came out from fire of Yagna.
There is bus service from Nellore to Jonnawada. For the convenienc of the pilgrims there are choultries of the Devastanam and TTD and also private choultries. Every year, during the celebration of Brahmstsavam in the month of Vaisaka, lakhs of devotees throng the holy centre to worship the goddess to attain salvation and Friday is the day very dear to Kamakshitai. One can find persons, persecuted by evil spirits, circumambulating in the temple precinct. A bathing ghat has been built on the bank of the Penna, for the convenience of the pilgrims.
Sri Talapagiri Ranaganatha swamy Temple is located in Nellore city and is about 5kms away from Nellore Bus stand. RanganadaSwamy Temple in Nellore is more than 600years old. This temple is situated on the banks of the river Pennar and is marked by a huge 29 Mts tall Galigopuram with seven gold kalasams and its architectural splendour. The annual Rath Yathra of the God is a much awaited ritual in Nellore.
There are seven kalisams, which brings beauty to the temple. Every year during the month of March-April (varies according to Hindu calendar) grand festival is celebrated. These are called Brahmotsavam.
On the bank of river penna sri kashyapa Maharshi performed yagna and as a fruit of his penance conferred upon him the gift of establishing himself as Ranganadha Swamy at Nellore in 7th cebtury, by Pallava ruler Sri Rajaraja Narendra. Subsequently in 13th century Sri Jatha Varma has offered precious stones and metal to Lord Ranganadha Swamy. The Andhra Maha Bharatam i.e. from Viratprvam to the end of the epicwas written by the poet Sri kavi Brahma Tikkana, on the bank of pennar river. On the east there is seven storied Maha gopuram, south Sri Ranganayaki Lakshmi Devi) temple and beautiful mirror dias, west is sacred Pennar river and north Sri Andal Ammavari temple.
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Lord Siva, Bhairavakona, (Kothapalli X Road | Singarayakonda | Pallevelugu | 16:30 | 48.00 | 25.00 | 115 |
Kandukur | Pallevelugu | 07:00, 13:00, 19:15 | 42.00 | 21.00 | 100 | |
C.S.Puram | Pallevelugu | 05:00, 05:45, 06:45, 07:30,08:45, 09:30, 10:45, 11:30, 12:30, 14:15, 15:30, 16:15, 17:30, 18:15, 19:30, 20:30,21:00. | 10.00 | 6.00 | 20 |
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| hell view |
sankranthi (Pongal) is the only festival of Hindu that follows a solar calendar and is celebrated on the fourteenth of January every year. sankranthi named also Pongal.sankranthi has astronomical significance: it marks the beginning of Uttarayana, the Sun's movement northward for a six month period. In Hinduism, Uttarayana is considered auspicious, as opposed to Dakshinaayana, or the southern movement of the sun. All important events are scheduled during this period. Makara Sankranthi refers to the event of the Sun entering the zodiac sign of Makara or Capricorn.sankranthi
signals the end of the traditional farming season. Farmers perform puja to some crops,the end of the traditional farming season. It also sets the pace for a series of festivals to follow in a calendar year.Bogi' is celebrated on January 13, 'Pongal' on Jan 14, 'Maattuppongal' on Jan 15.the first day, Bhogi, the old clothes and materials are thrown away and fired, marking the beginning of a new life. The second day, the Pongal day, is celebrated by boiling fresh milk early in the morning and allowing it to boil over the vessel - a tradition that is the literal translation for Pongal. People also prepare savories and sweets, visit each other's homes, and exchange greetings. The third day, Mattu Pongal, is meant to offer thanks to the cows and buffaloes, as they are used to plough the lands.
Pelli Pata ( Bit )-2
Thus, the harvest festival of Pongal symbolizes the veneration of the first fruit. The crop is harvested only after a certain time of the year, and cutting the crop before that time is strictly prohibited. Even though Pongal was originally a festival for the farming community, today it is celebrated by all. In south India, all three days of Pongal are considered important. However, those south Indians who have settled in the north usually celebrate only the second day. Coinciding with Makara Sankranti and Lohri of the north, it is also called Pongal Sankranti.The Gift
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Andhra Pradesh chief minister K Rosaiah resigned for cm position. Rosaiah meet the state governor today to submitting his resignation. governor suggested to rosaiah to rule the government when the new cm electing..
before the resignation rosaiah talk to media "I have done my best as the CM of the state. No one asked for my resignation, it's my own call,"
In the poorest country of the western hemisphere, residents wore protective face masks in the street and cautious parents gave their children bottled water.
As the United Nations warned that up to 200,000 Haitians could contract cholera in the country's first outbreak in a century, Dr. Jason Erb of the International Medical Corps said his organization set up a cholera clinic in the city.
"International Medical Corps came to Gonaives about two weeks ago based on a request from the Department of Health of Artibonite and OCHA (United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs) to look at the situation at Raboto Hospital and, in discussions with the medical director Dr. Marcel, we decided to set up a cholera treatment center. Since then, over the weekend, the number of cholera cases in Gonaives increased very rapidly," he said.
The epidemic added to a humanitarian emergency in the wake of the massive earthquake in January which killed more than 250,000.
Erb said the outbreak was aggravated by flooding caused by Hurricane Tomas this month.
"The number of cases did increase rapidly after the hurricane. We're not sure if it's related to the hurricane or not. All we do know is that those cases have increased largely in Gonaives as a whole. And so Raboto Hospital and Bon Secour Hospital have both seen this very, very fast increase and both are struggling to make sure that the best care possible can be provided to those who are sick," he said.
Public health experts warned that the country has all the classic risk factors for the disease -- overcrowded camps for displaced quake survivors, a scarcity of safe drinking water, improper elimination of human waste and the contamination of food during or after its preparation.
Additionally, because cholera is not usually found in the Caribbean, the entire population is at risk because no one has immunity to it.
In the humble neighborhood of Carrenage-Gonaives, litter fills the streets where half-naked children squander their days under the blaring sun. These living conditions leave people extremely vulnerable to the disease, which is spread by dirty water or food.
Area resident Aimer Kieukifer said he believes 50 of his neighbors have already died of cholera and sees little help on the way.
"We are all ready to get together and pray. We have not been able to find anybody to come here and help us in any way. Despite that, we have a few affected people who can't resist and died but we know that prayer is the only answer, and we are asking for everyone in Gonaives to give prayer a chance," he said.
The U. N. reported that at least 11,125 cholera patients have been hospitalized since the outbreak began more than three weeks ago. According to the World Health Organization, the death rate hasn't been increasing but is much higher than the usual 6 to 7 percent.
But with so many at risk, the U.N. has drawn up a plan asking for $163.9 million in aid over the next year to combat the epidemic.
High excise duties charged by the governments of Bangladesh and India have affected orange exports in India's eastern state of West Bengal.
Huge quantities of oranges are exported from the state's Siliguri city during the winter season (from November to January) to Bangladesh, but the Bangladeshi government has been charging excise duty of 16 rupees per kilogram of oranges.
"The rate is not in sync with the yield because the oranges being exported from Bhutan to Bangladesh have been freed from excise duty but the Bangladeshi government charges 100 percent duty on oranges exported from India. That is why the farmers are losing huge amounts of money," said Partha Charaborty, an exporter from West Bengal.
The heavy duties have forced several exporters out of business.
Meanwhile importers in Bangladesh, too, are worried as excise duties increase the price of oranges significantly by the time they reach markets.
To add to the woes of Indian exporters, they face stiff competition from Bhutan, which exports oranges to Bangladesh without paying any excise duty despite Indian oranges being of better quality.
"We have come from Bangladesh. Every year, we come here to buy oranges. Compared to last year, this year the price is quite high, and our Bangladesh government is not lowering the duties. Bhutan duties are free but the duties charged by the governments are very high unlike Bhutan, which is hitting us badly," said Muhammad Babul, an importer from Bangladesh.
The consensus is that the governments should cut down the excise duties in order to sustain the trade of oranges with Bangladesh.
Every year, the orange trade with Bangladesh rises to over Rs 200 million but it gets significantly hit by the heavy excise duty charged on the traders.
Huge quantities of oranges are exported from the state's Siliguri city during the winter season (from November to January) to Bangladesh, but the Bangladeshi government has been charging excise duty of 16 rupees per kilogram of oranges.
"The rate is not in sync with the yield because the oranges being exported from Bhutan to Bangladesh have been freed from excise duty but the Bangladeshi government charges 100 percent duty on oranges exported from India. That is why the farmers are losing huge amounts of money," said Partha Charaborty, an exporter from West Bengal.
The heavy duties have forced several exporters out of business.
Meanwhile importers in Bangladesh, too, are worried as excise duties increase the price of oranges significantly by the time they reach markets.
To add to the woes of Indian exporters, they face stiff competition from Bhutan, which exports oranges to Bangladesh without paying any excise duty despite Indian oranges being of better quality.
"We have come from Bangladesh. Every year, we come here to buy oranges. Compared to last year, this year the price is quite high, and our Bangladesh government is not lowering the duties. Bhutan duties are free but the duties charged by the governments are very high unlike Bhutan, which is hitting us badly," said Muhammad Babul, an importer from Bangladesh.
The consensus is that the governments should cut down the excise duties in order to sustain the trade of oranges with Bangladesh.
Every year, the orange trade with Bangladesh rises to over Rs 200 million but it gets significantly hit by the heavy excise duty charged on the traders.
Mayawati, Chief of India's northern state of Uttar Pradesh addressed a meeting of its party workers (Bahujan Samaj Party workers) in the provincial capital Lucknow on Saturday (November 13) to discuss strategies ahead of the state assembly election in 2012. Party workers from all the regions of the state attended the meeting and agreed to abide by the directions given by Mayawati ahead of the state assembly election.
"We have come here as Behenji (Mayawati) called us. All the directions given by Behenji will be followed. This meeting was held with the party workers and chief of party of every region," said Sitaram, a Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) worker.
The party workers added that following the directions given by Mayawati will be beneficial to the party as well as the state and in the years to come the party members will make their best efforts to make Mayawati as the Prime Minister of India.
The party workers further informed that directions given by the state chief will further benefit its members and will also benefit all the regions of the state.
"We came here for the meeting as Behenji (Mayawati) called us. We all heard what Behenji said and our party will be benefited a lot from that. We all will be benefited; our region as well as our state will be benefited. In the years to come we will make our best effort to make Behenji as the Prime Minister," said Phool Chand, another Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) worker.
After three short tenures between 1995 and 2003, it is Mayawati's fourth term as the Chief of the state. Mayawati is also the Chief of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), which was founded in 1984 by a political leader Kanshi Ram.
"We have come here as Behenji (Mayawati) called us. All the directions given by Behenji will be followed. This meeting was held with the party workers and chief of party of every region," said Sitaram, a Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) worker.
The party workers added that following the directions given by Mayawati will be beneficial to the party as well as the state and in the years to come the party members will make their best efforts to make Mayawati as the Prime Minister of India.
The party workers further informed that directions given by the state chief will further benefit its members and will also benefit all the regions of the state.
"We came here for the meeting as Behenji (Mayawati) called us. We all heard what Behenji said and our party will be benefited a lot from that. We all will be benefited; our region as well as our state will be benefited. In the years to come we will make our best effort to make Behenji as the Prime Minister," said Phool Chand, another Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) worker.
After three short tenures between 1995 and 2003, it is Mayawati's fourth term as the Chief of the state. Mayawati is also the Chief of Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), which was founded in 1984 by a political leader Kanshi Ram.
Adam Scott is in prime position to become the Singapore Open's first three-times winner after the Australian finished the third round with a one-shot lead over the chasing pack on Saturday (November 13). Defending champion Ian Poulter of England and South Korean Kang Kyung-nam are tied for second on 13-under-par at the Sentosa Golf Club, with U.S. Open winner Graeme McDowell a shot further back.
Scott, who won back-to-back Singapore titles in 2005 and 2006, was steady rather than spectacular on a hot, sunny Saturday at the Serapong course, making four birdies and two bogeys in a two-under-par round of 69.
Poulter, dressed conservatively in cream trousers and white golf shirt to match his unusual all-white driver, had leapfrogged Scott at the top of the leaderboard after birdies at the second and tenth and an eagle at the fourth, but that was as good as it would get for the Englishman after the turn.
The 34-year-old Ryder Cup player carded seven pars and bogeyed the 14th for a round of 68 to come home in second place.
Kang Kyung-nam made eight birdies in his round, but two bogeys and a double bogey gave him a four-under round of 67 to share second place with Poulter.
Northern Irishman McDowell after a round of 68 looks poised to eat into German Martin Kaymer's lead in the European Tour's Race to Dubai with the German well off the pace on seven-under. The co-sanctioned tournament offers a first prize of $1 million.
U.S. Masters champion Phil Mickelson looked out of sorts, taking a three-over par eight at the last hole to finish with a four-over round of 75, 12 strokes behind Scott.
Scott, who won back-to-back Singapore titles in 2005 and 2006, was steady rather than spectacular on a hot, sunny Saturday at the Serapong course, making four birdies and two bogeys in a two-under-par round of 69.
Poulter, dressed conservatively in cream trousers and white golf shirt to match his unusual all-white driver, had leapfrogged Scott at the top of the leaderboard after birdies at the second and tenth and an eagle at the fourth, but that was as good as it would get for the Englishman after the turn.
The 34-year-old Ryder Cup player carded seven pars and bogeyed the 14th for a round of 68 to come home in second place.
Kang Kyung-nam made eight birdies in his round, but two bogeys and a double bogey gave him a four-under round of 67 to share second place with Poulter.
Northern Irishman McDowell after a round of 68 looks poised to eat into German Martin Kaymer's lead in the European Tour's Race to Dubai with the German well off the pace on seven-under. The co-sanctioned tournament offers a first prize of $1 million.
U.S. Masters champion Phil Mickelson looked out of sorts, taking a three-over par eight at the last hole to finish with a four-over round of 75, 12 strokes behind Scott.
Girls from India's southern state of Kerala, who often opted for nursing and teaching as their career options, are now entering the fashion world as models generally get lured by fame and income prospects in this industry. The girls have been attending grooming classes to sharpen their skills.
The grooming sessions consists of yoga, meditation, personality development, beauty tips, photo shoot, interaction and finally talent search for which the sponsors claim they do not charge fees.
According to an estimate, this year more than 50 girls have taken part in various fashion shows to be held in and around the city.
Various companies have started to come in search of fresh faces to launch their products giving an opportunity to these aspiring young models.
"Lot of corporate companies is coming in and trading is happening. So, outsiders are coming in over here. See any new companies coming in need a launch. So when it comes to a launch automatically like there will be an entertainment and fashion show and new products. Whenever a product launch is happening definitely there will be a fashion show. So now when you are looking to it Cochin is becoming a fashion hub of Kerala," said Dallu, a choreographer.
The recent beauty contests held in Kochi were the Miss Kerala and Le Mannequins paving an opportunity to the young models who are passionate for walking on the ramp.
"Modelling is my passion. So I am very much interested in this field. So, like the ramp, the walking, and the red carpet it's like to set fire on the ramp is really interesting. So that's the reason I am here like with the support from my family everything, together…" said Paulantina K, a contestant.
Miss Kerala pageant was designed to discover the freedom of expression and talent of South India women.
Le Mannequins was to select models for forthcoming shows in which international models will participate.
The title winner of the event received a cash prize of Rs 100 thousand, while the first and second runners up got gifts worth Rs 50,000 and Rs 25, 0000 respectively.
The forthcoming events are Miss south India and Navy Ball which are scheduled to take place later this month.
The grooming sessions consists of yoga, meditation, personality development, beauty tips, photo shoot, interaction and finally talent search for which the sponsors claim they do not charge fees.
According to an estimate, this year more than 50 girls have taken part in various fashion shows to be held in and around the city.
Various companies have started to come in search of fresh faces to launch their products giving an opportunity to these aspiring young models.
"Lot of corporate companies is coming in and trading is happening. So, outsiders are coming in over here. See any new companies coming in need a launch. So when it comes to a launch automatically like there will be an entertainment and fashion show and new products. Whenever a product launch is happening definitely there will be a fashion show. So now when you are looking to it Cochin is becoming a fashion hub of Kerala," said Dallu, a choreographer.
The recent beauty contests held in Kochi were the Miss Kerala and Le Mannequins paving an opportunity to the young models who are passionate for walking on the ramp.
"Modelling is my passion. So I am very much interested in this field. So, like the ramp, the walking, and the red carpet it's like to set fire on the ramp is really interesting. So that's the reason I am here like with the support from my family everything, together…" said Paulantina K, a contestant.
Miss Kerala pageant was designed to discover the freedom of expression and talent of South India women.
Le Mannequins was to select models for forthcoming shows in which international models will participate.
The title winner of the event received a cash prize of Rs 100 thousand, while the first and second runners up got gifts worth Rs 50,000 and Rs 25, 0000 respectively.
The forthcoming events are Miss south India and Navy Ball which are scheduled to take place later this month.
A sandstorm blankets much of northern China covering cities in unhealthy dust and grit.
Strong winds moved across the north bringing the sand from the northwestern desert.
Thick pollution now covers many major cities on the eastern coast.
Authorities blame the sandstorm on cold weather and lack of rain.
"After two rounds of cold air hit northern China, plants have withered, which made it easier for sand to fly up in the air. But the main reason is that there were few rainfalls in early days."
Many other factors have contributed to the increase in sandstorms in recent years.
Overgrazing, deforestation, urban sprawl, and drought helped expand deserts in the west and north -- now covering one-third of the country.
Tausende Schaulustige säumten am Freitagabend die rund 40 Kilometer lange Strecke, um das Spektakel zu verfolgen.
"Wir können hier an der Ems nichts weiter machen als davon träumen, von der großen weiten See und dem Ozean. Und das ist vielleicht mit dem Disney Dream nochmal so dargestellt", sagte eine Frau zu Reuters TV.
Pro Fahrt können rund 4.000 Passagiere ihre Sehnsucht nach der großen, weiten Welt stillen. Hinzu kommen über 1.400 Mann Besatzung. Diese werden sich dann um die Reisenden kümmern, die hauptsächlich aus Familien mit Kindern bestehen sollen. Entsprechend sind auch die Unterhaltungsangebote auf der Disney Dream, allen voran die erste Wildwasserbahn auf einem Kreuzfahrtschiff sowie diverse Kinderbereiche.
Mit einem Feuerwerk nahm die Disney Dream Abschied von ihren Konstrukteuren. Das Schiff soll in Bremerhaven offiziell von der Reederei Disney Cruise Line in den Dienst gestellt werden und wird dann zu ihrem Heimathafen Port Canaveral in Flordia überführt. Die Jungfernfahrt des Luxusliner ist für den 26. Januar angesetzt.
Ablauf
In Myanmar, dem früheren Birma, gibt es Anzeichen dafür, dass der langjährige Hausarrest von Oppositionsführerin Suu Kyi zu Ende geht. Die Militärmachthaber sollen die Freilassung der Friedensnobelpreisträgerin genehmigt haben. Zahlreiche Anhänger und Journalisten warteten am Haus der 65-jährigen. Suu Kyi verbrachte 15 der vergangenen 21 Jahre im Gefängnis oder im Hausarrest.
Attacke
In Afghanistan haben Sicherheitskräfte einen Angriff radikal-islamischer Taliban auf einen Flughafen und einen Stützpunkt ausländischer Truppen abwehren können. Sie lieferten sich ein Gefecht mit den Extremisten. Laut Augenzeugen wurden mindestens drei Angreifer getötet. Den Taliban zufolge waren an der Attacke in Dschalalabad im Osten des Landes mehrere Selbstmordattentäter beteiligt.
Überführung
Das Kreuzfahrtschiff "Disney Dream" hat am Abend die Meyer-Werft in Papenburg in Richtung Nordsee verlassen. Zahlreiche Schaulustige verfolgten das Spektakel, als der Ozeanriese die extra zu diesem Zweck angestaute Ems langsam flussabwärts manövrierte. Ihre Jungfernfahrt soll die "Disney Dream" am 26. Januar antreten.
The four-day International Lavi Fair kicked-off in Rampur region of India's northern Himachal Pradesh state on Thursday (November 11), where people from Tibet, China and Afghanistan took part. The fair is held at the onset of winter season on the bank of Satluj River. It is a blend of business and culture. With this fair the traders are benefited while the rich culture and tradition of the state is promoted."International Lavi Fair will be held from 11-14 November. Many people from Kinnaur, Lahul- Spiti and Tibet come for trade here. This fair is being organised from past 200-250 years. This fair is being organised with the help of local administration and city council," said B. R. Negi, organiser of International Lavi Fair.
Pashmina is one of the biggest draws at the fair, along with agriculture products like dry fruits and nuts being sold in a large numbers.
"Tibetan goods and Chinese items are on sale here in this fair, and nuts from Kinnaur are also being sold here. Though they are costly because of inflation but we have to buy, so we are buying," said Usha Chauhan, a visitor.
The fair is named after 'lovi' (woolen long coat), which is a traditional dress that people wear during winters in the state's Shimla and Kinnaur districts.
This fair is symbol of the trade relationship between China and Tibet, and it has been celebrated since the time of Raja Kesar Singh of Rampur.
Leaders from 21 Asia-Pacific economies are expected to pledge to work toward creating a vast free trade area at a weekend summit, but frictions over currencies and geopolitical rivalries will also dominate their weekend gathering in Yokohama. After all that heated debate in Seoul over currencies and global imbalances, Asia-Pacific leaders are being treated to "Cool Japan" at the summit this weekend in Yokohama.
The 21 leaders of the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation forum -- nine of whom were in Seoul for the Group of 20 summit -- have gathered in Japan's port city of Yokohama, just south of Tokyo, to talk about a new growth strategy and a giant free trade zone.
They are being made to sit in plush arm chairs around around a "digital pond" - a video screen shaped like a fish pond - in which virtual koi swim, and virtual leaves fall around a virtual stand of bamboo.
It is meant to make the leaders feel like they are in a retreat in the autumn woods, a media handout says.
In the anteroom of this retreat, the leaders will view a showcase of traditional items as well as exhibits representing modern, high-tech Japan.
Borrowing a slogan used for promoting Britain, it is being called "Cool Japan".
Perhaps the atmosphere will be an antidote to the sometimes heated discussions at the G20 meeting in Seoul this week, where sharp divisions between China and the United States about their respective currencies were on display.
The 21 leaders of the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation forum -- nine of whom were in Seoul for the Group of 20 summit -- have gathered in Japan's port city of Yokohama, just south of Tokyo, to talk about a new growth strategy and a giant free trade zone.
They are being made to sit in plush arm chairs around around a "digital pond" - a video screen shaped like a fish pond - in which virtual koi swim, and virtual leaves fall around a virtual stand of bamboo.
It is meant to make the leaders feel like they are in a retreat in the autumn woods, a media handout says.
In the anteroom of this retreat, the leaders will view a showcase of traditional items as well as exhibits representing modern, high-tech Japan.
Borrowing a slogan used for promoting Britain, it is being called "Cool Japan".
Perhaps the atmosphere will be an antidote to the sometimes heated discussions at the G20 meeting in Seoul this week, where sharp divisions between China and the United States about their respective currencies were on display.
All three actors will be performing on December 31 at different venues.
Celina Jaitley who would be performing in Mumbai is ecstatic to welcome New Year with fans and family.
"It is a special feeling to perform on 31st and also when you have your family along with you. Very few experience welcoming it in such a way. I am really looking forward to it," said Jaitley.
Oberoi, who would be performing for the first time on New Year's eve, said he felt both nervous and excited when he will perform in Dubai.
"It is for the first time that I will be performing on New Year. Therefore it is very special for me. I have received a lot of love from the people of Dubai. My films also do extremely well in Dubai, so I am really looking forward to it," said Oberoi.
Govinda also shared similar feelings, adding that it gave him immense pleasure to celebrate special occasions with fans.
"To share with yourself and your fans what you are feeling on such a special occasion is a beautiful experience," he said
Govinda will be performing in New Delhi.
Bollywood celebrity performances on New Year eves have become an annual affair. The actors demand huge sums of money to perform at such events.
Activists of the Tibetan Youth Congress (TYC) on Friday (November 12) kicked off a motorcycle rally from Dharamsala in India's northern state of Himachal Pradesh to New Delhi to protest the Asian Games being hosted by China. Tibetans and pro-Tibet activists gathered in good numbers in the city to support the rally.
A leader of the TYC said that China does is not worthy of hosting the prestigious Asian Games.
"When we talk about Olympics, those have to do with great human rights issues, you know human values, and all that and China does not respect human rights in any form or shape anywhere. Not inside China, in Tibet, not anywhere else. If you look at China, they have so many relations with regimes all over the world so if you look at that, they are indirectly assisting these other nations also. That's why we strongly believe that China does not deserve Asian Games and we are organizing this bike rally," said Tsewang Rigzin, President of the Tibetan Youth Congress.
The XVIth Asian Games got off to a colourful start at Haixinsha Island in the Pearl River of southern Guangdong Province in China on Friday (November 12).
The fortnight-long sporting extravaganza will conclude on November 27, in which around 10,000 athletes from 45 countries are taking part in 42 disciplines.
A group of ten bikers on six motorcycles would reach the national capital on the 15th of November.
One of the members of the bike rally said that since China violates human rights, it does not have the moral right to host such prestigious events.
"In Tibet there are no human rights. Human rights violation is still going inside the Tibet. So many brothers and sisters are being cracked down because the all the world has witnessed in 2008, March 10th. So we are conveying message to Chinese people that they have no rights to host this Olympics and Asian Games," said Yeshi, a biker.
The Tibet issue has been a topic of concern to India, as thousands of Tibetans have made India their adopted home after they fled their homeland. An estimated 80,000 Tibetans along with the Dalai Lama arrived in India in 1959 after an unsuccessful uprising against the Chinese rule.
China maintains tight control over the Tibet Autonomous Region but gives greater leeway to the larger Tibetan population in neighbouring provinces, such as Qinghai.
The struggle for 'Free Tibet' has gained momentum and the demands for it as an autonomous region has also received significant support from people across the globe.
Many Tibetans demand complete independence from China, even though in recent years the Dalai Lama has advocated for limited autonomy.
The car market in India's western Gujarat state has been booming in the last few months as more than 1,800 cars have been sold in Rajkot city itself.Automobile dealers say that they are happy with the record sales, and impute the trend to the festival season.
"The business has been good since this financial year. As far as I think, in the last 10 years we have not seen such a market. If we talk about last month then we have sold approximately 1,800 plus vehicles as against 775 last year," said Rajni Patel, owner of an automobile dealership.
The sales figure has doubled against all monthly figures of the last decade.
Small and medium cars received the highest number of customers.
"Last month, Gujarat broke all the retail records, especially Maruti Suzuki sold 10,000 cars in Gujarat. The reasons are that the market has been very good. Rains have been good and rural penetration has been good, especially in Saurashtra region. In Gujarat, the Sensex has crossed 21,000 mark and also the increment in salaries of government employees, and the perks that they have got. Their buying capacity has increased. All these factors contributed to the good car market," said Vikas Gehlot, General Manager or a car dealership.
Rains in the region have also contributed to the spending capacity of locals.
The year 2008-2009 was bad for the automobile industry due to economic recession but most markets have come out of that situation.
On the first day of Navratri, Ford sold 111 cars in a day.
The dealers also say that the increase in car sales is also due to the living standards of people.
Most say car dealers say that they are hopeful of such a market in the coming months.
Farmers of Junagadh district in India's western state of Gujarat have incurred losses as heavy rains have devastated the crops in the province. The continuous rainfall in the area has caused huge crop damage pushing farmers in a dilapidated condition.
"The first rainfall was good for the crop. We sprayed fertilisers in the field. We even took loans from the bank to grow crop but the rains ruined it completely. Now we are left with nothing, we are almost unemployed now," said Vinod Parmar, a farmer.Now, the farmers are praying gods to be generous and further seek help from the government.
"In field cultivation, there are quite a lot of crops of groundnuts and sugarcane, which has damaged that, will have an effect on the farmers' income. Hopefully, if the rain gods are generous enough, they (farmers) might make good with the current season of the groundnuts. But what about the losses? I pray somebody takes care of that," said Jerey Fernandez, another farmer.
The monsoons this year have been particularly heavy across India, causing floods in many areas and devastation of property worth hundreds of millions of rupees.
India is basically an agriculture economy and about 600 million of the billion-plus population depends on agriculture for their livelihood
In a candid interaction with reporters in national capital New Delhi, Prithviraj Chavan, Chief Minster of India's western Maharashtra state, defended himself over allegations of involvement in a major housing scam on Saturday (November 13).Prithviraj Chavan took over the reins of Maharashtra from Ashok Chavan, who was forced to resign a couple of days ago by Sonia Gandhi, the chief of federal ruling Congress party, due to his links with the Adarsh Housing Society scam in provincial capital Mumbai.
It was reported that Ashok Chavan's relations owned flats in the Adarsh Housing Society meant for war widows and armed forces veterans.
But latest media reports have also disclosed that one of the flats in the society belongs to Prithviraj Chavan, ruffling feathers within party circles.
Visibly miffed at being dragged into the simmering row, the newly appointed state chief asserted there was nothing illegal about him owning a flat in the controversial society.
"The fact is there is nothing to hide. The flat was taken by me in my name. It is not a 'benaami' (a land which is not mentioned under anyone's name) thing. It is under the existing guidelines of giving flats to Members of Parliament (lawmaker). I took it as a Member of Parliament. I do not think there is anything illegal about it. If there is anything illegal about it I will look into it. I have shown all my details," said Prithviraj Chavan.
The new state chief has the onerous task of salvaging the image of the party, which has taken a severe beating due to the Adarsh Housing Society scam.
However, Prithviraj Chavan maintained his government would support the inquiry by the federal probe agency to bring the guilty officials to book.
"There are some matters, some people have gone to court…there are cases. But we are just going by the CBI inquiry which is ordered. The CBI has already started working, they have already collected papers. It is not a departmental inquiry or something. It is a CBI inquiry," added Chavan.
The Adarsh Housing scam in western Maharashtra hogged headlines after it was revealed that some top serving officers from the armed forces and former chiefs were allotted units in the cooperative housing complex, flouting several Indian laws.
The flats were meant for disabled veterans and widows of the martyrs of the 1999 Kargil conflict with Pakistan.
