Israeli Palestinian peace talks have come to a grinding halt following the moratorium expiration on Jewish settlements in West Bank and East Jerusalem last September.

The Palestinian casualties in early January 2011 involving a man and a woman in the northern West Bank checkpoint and the barrier is a setback for the long anticipated peace resolution between Israel and Palestinian authorities.

Additionally the recent tension in beleaguered Gaza with Israel reporting on the rocket firing by Hamas across the southern border resets the status quo after a prolonged ceasefire promoting hope for exports from Gaza to Israel.

Subsequently Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s invitation to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas for direct dialogue is praiseworthy.

However, the Israeli Prime Minister’s terms on negotiations without preconditions in the backdrop of ongoing settlement expansion is a dilemma for the Palestinian President considering the political challenges in their domain.

Any agreement would be feasible upon instantaneous settlement freeze that has long been contentious in the crucial interaction between the two heads of the states.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu having previously proved Israel’s commitment to two states solution through temporary settlement containment could perhaps persuade opposition within Israeli coalition in this matter rather than expecting Palestinian approval of the continuing occupation.

The two states recognition could be easily achieved with natural understanding and acknowledgment of 1967 lines for an Independent Palestinian State concurrently suspending settlement activities in Palestinian territories viz. West Bank and East Jerusalem.

As mentioned earlier Israel’s security will be strengthened by expediting the peace treaty that would enable free Palestine to focus on nation building beginning with infrastructure, economic growth, education and health care…guaranteed to promote social progress transforming existing mistrust and discord into a reliable trading partnership fostering bilateral relationship with their neighbor, Israel.

Further the Arab world would widely accept Israel’s sovereignty when peace protocol per 1967 territory is honored ceasing claim on Palestinian meager land with exponential rise in the local population.

Again reiterating requests made to both parties per post titled “Peace Dawns on Palestine and Israel – Two States Solution,” published 9/2/2010 under International Politics on this website,

Both states could reach common destination by removing roadblocks such as occupation, settlement, troop presence with checkpoints and barriers from the Israeli side and,

Palestinian efforts in maintaining solidarity within political factions while pursuing their goals through non-violent means is the pragmatic course to prevail in the decades old conflict.

Peace deal is not attainable with demolition in East Jerusalem, skirmishes in Gaza and West bank under siege. The Palestinian preparation to approach United Nations Security Council for international endorsement of liberated Palestine along the 1967 lines reveals the peace brokers’ lack of influential power and interest in resolving the Mideast crisis.

Therefore the international society could intervene in ending the Palestinian plight and Israeli political gridlock over settlements and troop withdrawal by reviewing the reality and the impact of ignoring the humanitarian suffering currently benefiting terror recruitments serving as the reason for perpetual warfare.

By addressing the Palestinian political struggle and Israeli desire for national security, the international community would effectively contribute to the success of the Israeli Palestinian peace process.

On that optimistic note, the Palestinian and Israeli leaders are urged to set their differences aside and cooperate in signing the peace accord with international blessings.

Good Luck and Best Wishes to Palestinian, Israeli and world leaders in finalizing the amicable Mideast peace doctrine.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

On January 9, 2011 the largest nation in Africa and the Arab world – Sudan will be split into two separate states upon validation in the Southern Sudanese independence referendum.

Sudan like other parts of Africa has been ravaged by decades of civil war.

The Second Sudanese Civil war resumed in 1983 to 2005 and then continued in western region – Darfur still engaged in skirmishes on the ground.

The current President Omar al-Bashir then seizing power in 1989 bloodless military coup set up a totalitarian government leading the nation towards genocide.

The civil wars resulted in the worst humanitarian crisis with –

2 million casualties and more than 4 million displaced population including an estimated 200,000 prisoners of wars and civilians taken into slavery not barring child soldiers by the pro-government Arab militias, the Sudanese army as well as the rebel factions involved in the north-south economic, ethnic, religious and political confrontation.

Captives from the Second Sudanese Civil War were reportedly enslaved at an alarming rate in the early nineties and thereafter.

Since independence in 1956 from the colonial powers Egypt and Great Britain,

The North African nation has been dealing with military coups at the central power and civil wars in the southern as well as eastern and western provinces against rebel forces,

Notwithstanding cross border conflicts with Chad and Eritrea on the west and southeastern fronts.

The Sudanese federal government in alliance with Arab militias is stated to have escalated the violence prompting rebel retaliation facilitated by prolific arms supply to the region at the devastation of several millions across the nation.

The interdependency between the oil rich south and the rest of Sudan with pipeline and ports services face critical challenges following Southern Sudan secession.

Northern Sudan along with eastern and western states will have to prepare for economic austerity once the oil revenue shared now declines with the southern segregation.

Hence there are genuine concerns over the rebels response to economic disparity affecting – Darfur on the west, the east and central Sudan not barring the provocation by the militias stationed in the north and south without being subject to either government’s authority.

Spark ignited from these groups could easily promote mutiny with serious consequences on the southern sovereignty besides increasing national vulnerability by influencing other disenchanted population to demand individual statehood.

Moreover the territories are yet to be clearly demarcated and ‘Abyei’ – the bridge between the northern and southern land apparently with depleting oil reserves,

Nonetheless ‘the Greater Nile Oil Pipeline’ that connects the oil fields in this area with Port Sudan on the Red Sea through the northern Sudan’s capital – Khartoum could become a contentious issue.

Oil exports are reported to have been crucial to Sudanese economic growth rising from 6.1% in 2003 to 9% in 2007. This achievement would not have been possible without functional pipelines serving the oil supply.

The reason for rebel forces to rise against the governing power is to restore political rights through fair representation in national governance, equal economic opportunity and most importantly social and religious freedom.

In the absence of any or all of these basic elements in a society the nation is susceptible to political and social unrest often evolving into ethnic cleansing as witnessed in human history.

The latest world events like Kyrgyzstan in Central Asia, Sri Lanka in South East Asia and previously Bosnia, Herzegovina of the former Yugoslavia are stark reminders to leaderships to acknowledge and honor human rights of all regardless of demographic representation.

Whether it is colonial power treatment of the indigenous population or the ethnic minority marginalized by the majority rule, the human attitude towards fellow citizens is regrettable forming the basis for perpetual discord within a society.

However these developments do not occur by itself and external interventions are proved to be the sources in order to gain regional or territorial dominance.

If mankind has made tremendous progress in economic fields the reversal is also true in social tolerance evident in the unresolved disputes spanning over decades.

All that requires in the balancing act is empathy and the sharing concept to benefit all rather than the self-interest.

With Sudan – the aggressive authoritarian national leadership assumed excessive power and quelled political opposition.

The Presidential re-election was marred with corruption and forced expulsion of formidable pro-democracy candidacies offering meaningful reform alongside religious and cultural diversity. Accordingly, the election was declared undemocratic by the international community.

The incumbent government curtailed free speech by sentencing journalists and political activists, imposing national religious laws regardless of individual faith and last but not the least,

The leadership is indicted for war crimes and crimes against humanity by the International Criminal Court of Justice.

The southerners and the remaining Sudanese plight have long been ignored by the central power focused on iron-fist rule exemplified in policies implemented to the republic’s detriment.

In the secession vote the southerners are predicted to overwhelmingly approve the long anticipated liberty but like everything else there is a price for realizing the dream which might threaten their national security and sovereign status given the volatile conditions.

Southern Sudan is not any safer by being independent although the past six years autonomy might drive the inclination to self-governance.

Meanwhile provinces deprived of economic prosperity in the remaining country could attempt to follow suit and contribute to preventable warfare.

Sudan in semblance with African counterparts is rich in mineral resources and precious metals.

Similarly political instability is not uncommon and widely attributed to diverse groups disenfranchisement reflected in disproportionate or lack of national representation.

People in southern Sudan could experience better peace prospects through solidarity with the significant rest frustrated over the political dilemma and elect leadership dedicated to serving all rather than preferred segments in the society.

Southern Sudan decision to split from the mainland would set precedence for disintegration likely to jeopardize the fragile environment in all aspects.

Collective action towards political transformation and social justice has never failed in producing the desirable outcome.

The unified and non-violent approach by consolidating efforts among –

SPLM (Sudan’s People Liberation Movement) from the south,

JEM (Justice and Equality Movement) representing the Darfur, Red Sea and Equatoria regions,

Along with, Beja Congress and Rashaida Free Lions, two tribal based groups of the Beja and Rashaida people in the Eastern front,

To form a government with Northern National Congress Party comprising members and leaders pledged to secular democratic Sudan would prevail in establishing an efficient and powerful government.

People power would rightfully return with stronger coalition at the federal level that is guaranteed to bring stability, harmony and prosperity to the war torn nation.

It is sincerely hoped that Southern Sudanese will carefully examine the pros and cons in seeking secession from the magnificent nation Sudan with glory and fortune in abundance available to every human committed to unity.

Good Luck and Best Wishes to the people of Sudan for permanent peace and a bright future.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Welcome! To the 112thCongress with the Republican House and Democratic Senate.

The power shift in the new Congress is prepared to make some significant changes to the House rules, previous legislation and the Senate procedure.

Initiatives to implement proposals on Congressional transparency and accountability through on-line presentation of legislation as outlined in the blog post ‘Defining the Humanitarian Responsibility’ – 04/16/2010 on this website is deeply appreciated.

Yet another strategy as stated earlier on omnibus spending delineating earmarks from the Congressional budget would enable legislators to clarify the expenditure.

The recommendation for bill funding to be raised from cutting costs and not through revenues might lead to essential program termination with an adverse economic effect.

If the Republican House pursues permanent spending slashes while increasing liabilities in prolonged wars and tax cuts for the billionaires – the formula used during their earlier majority rule that led to the status quo, it would be the same experiment seeking different results.

Fiscal responsibility is a constant requirement. Nonetheless avoiding brazen measures would confirm pragmatism over ideology.

Further, the majority seizing budget control with the incoming chairman of the House Budget Committee having unilateral authority in domestic spending until budget resolution passage defies checks and balances per the constitution pledged to be upheld in the ‘send-a-message’ category on January 6, 2011.

While it is necessary to trim the legislation volume for better understanding within the allowed time frame, it is equally important to include relevant issues concerning the people and national interest.

In similar context permitting additional amendments and open debate on the bill for proper scrutiny is sensible provided it is not political but carried out to ensure prudence.

Some issues have been presented on the floor over the decade like START treaty eventually ratified in December 2010 and the unsuccessful DREAM ACT rejected on ‘short notice’ basis even though the records reveal otherwise.

On the contentious health care repeal and tax cuts legislation making exception to the impending Republican rule by denying amendments or evading costs in new bills introduction affecting national deficit – a Republican campaign priority reflects double standards and political dominance rather than balance of power.

Amendments to the health care legislation instead of repeal might be the appropriate action in order to protect any crucial components benefitting the sick, the poor and the tax payers now and in the long run.

It’s imperative for the ruling and the opposition members in Congress to transcend partisanship through mutual exchange of ideas and policies in achieving legislative victories guaranteed to move the nation forward.

Reiterating the earlier expectation that the events in 112th Congress would comprise less conflicts and more cooperation for national good.

Best Wishes! To the newly elected and incumbent members in Congress for a successful and harmonious beginning prevailing until the end.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

New Year Greetings to all!

Amid great many challenges ahead the world welcomes the year 2011 with hope and joy.

Human beings have consistently proved that they have the ability to overcome hardships and achieve their goals.

Reflection on the 2010 domestic and global events leads to specific issues that require public attention.

The 2010 legislative actions would clarify the impact on the economy and the ordinary citizens struggling to make ends meet in the difficult situation.

In the economic front, the job market recovery is much anticipated among the long term unemployed and underemployed citizens forced to survive on jobless benefits gained after a huge compromise on the tax cuts for the wealthiest – offering the average Americans temporary relief in exchange for a permanent tax burden.

Winning the Bush tax cuts extension to billionaires is motivating the legislators to risk baby boomers and seniors’ lifeline – Social Security.

The strong initiative to privatize Social security and increase retirement age to relieve the super-rich from tax payments is no surprise given the precedence in France pension bill incorporating the agenda.

Financial institutions on their part ensured that business is conducted as usual with little or no regard for the regulations introduced in 2010 Financial Reform due to their victory from the $19 billion tax exemption in legislation despite their major role in the global economic recession.

Their commitment to revive the economy through lending was expected to meltdown the liquidity freeze in the credit market which is yet to be fulfilled based on the prevalent facts.

Health care law passed last year mandated that the health insurance industry provide coverage to patients with pre-existing conditions.

However, the absence of premium caps on the coverage enables industry set arbitrary pricing currently hurting the subscribers in the health care for minors, since the adults will not be eligible until the health care law is effective in 2014.

Moreover the mandatory insurance subscription in the health care rule leaves the vulnerable patients i.e. the individuals with pre-existing illnesses no choice but comply with the health insurance industry policy facilitating industry dominance likely to be worsened upon becoming the law with substantial subscribers joining the insurance pool per legislative requirement.

The people are confronted with three vital issues – employment, credit needed for job creation subsequently stimulating consumer spending along with health care costs – quintessential for economic rebound in the year 2011 and beyond.

As bizarre it might be those responsible for the burgeoning crises are the beneficiaries in the deals with enormous tax liability transferred to the victims.

Defense spending on wars in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iraq is prolonged until 2014 with greater ambivalence on exit strategy alongside mounting casualties and the exhausted armed personnel spread thin across the combat zones.

The Senate ratification of U.S. and Russia START treaty is a preliminary step towards non-proliferation,

Juxtaposed to the White House nuclear agreement with Vietnam and offer to Iran offset the efforts in strategic arms control.

With respect to climate change – The energy sector pressure reportedly prompted the White House decision on Environment Protection Agency postponement of rigorous emission standards to curtail smog and toxic pollution in the atmosphere.

Furthermore, the federal agency plan to permit Shell Oil offshore drilling in the Arctic makes the U.S consent disingenuous at the climate summit.

The intriguing factors in all of the above mentioned issues are – net gain for Wall Street and military industrial complex is phenomenal in the White House negotiated legislation considering the democrats controlled Congress until 2010.

Again as for the political party representation – The Democratic White House had Democrat majority in the House and the Senate until December 2010.

Industries prevailing in all legislation confirm the special interests influence in Washington – notably in the lucrative health care, finance reform and Bush tax cuts for wealthy.

The democratic Congressional leaderships and the progressive members were dedicated to the American electorate and national interests.

Their hard work and determination made legislation on certain social issues such as Repealing Don’t Ask Don’t Tell and Health care for 911 rescue workers possible surviving the routine gridlock in Capitol Hill.

Similarly the moderate Republican members like Senators Susan Collins, Olympia Snowe, Lisa Murkowski and few others cooperation helped in avoiding impasse on these crucial legislation.

The 112th Congress with Republican majority in the House and Senate expansion is pledged to deficit reduction by slashing life dependent services to the population at the bottom after contributing to the problem through extravagant tax exemptions to Wall Street and billionaires.

Global economic review bear semblance to Washington setbacks emanating from fiscal mismanagement.

European austerity to address respective national debt was overwhelmingly opposed by the main street as seen in France, United Kingdom, Greece, Spain, Portugal and Ireland.

Nonetheless the legislation passed against public protest is suggestive of the minority will exerted on the world population.

The U.S. State department and National Security under the incumbent administration handling of political quagmire in Afghanistan and Iraq shared identical solutions with the power entrusted to unpopular leaderships against electoral mandate.

Likewise the U.S State department’s behind the scenes preparation to reinstate deposed leadership in Pakistan revealed during the cable leaks poses the questions on legitimacy behind extended military operation and Osama Bin Laden whereabouts since he is claimed to be alive?

The failed coup d’état in Ecuador last year is a compelling evidence for national vigilance against foreign power intervention undermining democracy. The reports cited the CIA and U.S. State department’s involvement in the attempt.

Mid-East peace talks stalled with the U.S stance on letting settlements growth in Palestinian territories.

It is clear from the synopsis that the concentrated power among the nexus group successfully depriving the significant rest of political, social and economic prospects.

The republic voice in a democracy – press, news media and the elected officials’ complacency with the exception of selective honorable figures has exacerbated the status quo.

Those executing these fundamentally destructive policies for pure self-interest are not even subject to due explanation or accountability.

Instead they are granted impunity to abuse power and exercise authority in advancing the conglomerate scheme with ulterior motives.

Hence it is obligatory on the people from all walks of life across the globe to rise to the occasion and decline the oligarchy supremacy devastating lives to the point of no return.

History is testimony to the fact that change has been brought upon by the ordinary people standing up against those with extraordinary power.

It is often forgotten that the ultimate power lies with the people as the workers, employees, consumers, taxpayers and potently the electorate.

Any damages to the source inevitably affects the top of the hierarchy. When the foundation in the society is weakened the structure crumbles as a result.

It is never too late to reverse course and deliver the people’s right to individual freedom with equal access to political, social and economic opportunities.

Politics espousing democratic principles exemplified in public service produce desirable outcome benefitting all rather than the privileged few.

People power is best utilized in major transformation desperately needed at the present time.

Happy New year to all for a productive and peaceful beginning!

Thank you.

The world welcomes 2011. New Year Greetings to all!

Wishing every citizen around the world,

Happy, Prosperous and Peaceful New Year!

Massachusetts status quo is no different from other states in the nation.

Massachusetts residents are dealing with similar problems on the economy, health care, education and environment.

With respect to solutions – policies that conforms to Washington tradition are pursued with the misguided hope of delivering change.

It’s not political parties related anymore. It depends upon the candidacy and their record that confirms the policy failure in applying the same strategies for different results.

Washington is a perfect example in this instance.

Although the legislative gridlock is mostly contributed by the Republican members, the corporate democrats in the Senate and the conservative blue dogs in the House are equally defiant in their opposition to bills favoring the mainstream America.

Despite the democrat majority in the House and the Senate until January 2010, the legislation thus far favor the special interests than the average citizen in every national issue predominantly due to their representatives’ staunch support to safeguard the corporate interests at national cost.

In this particular gubernatorial race, the Green-Rainbow Party candidate Jill Stein stands apart unequivocally from other contenders including the incumbents representing the major political party.

Dr.Jill Stein is the alumna of the distinguished Harvard Medical School. Dr. Stein is an environmental activist. As the Co-Chair of the Green-Rainbow Party, the avant-garde on many political-social issues ranging from Fair elections to spreading public awareness on life matter, Dr. Stein is a board member on health oriented community programs involving medical professionals.

Dr.Jill Stein is the candidate for the Governor of Massachusetts in the 2010 election.

Dr.Jill Stein’s exemplary background as a physician with extensive knowledge in health care eminently qualifies the candidacy as the appropriate advocate for universal health care, the only remedy to the escalating health care expenses contributing to the state and national deficits.

Dr.Stein is also a stalwart on social issues such as same-sex marriage, addressing poverty and fixing educational system as a top priority besides an array of environmental causes.

During the debate, the other candidates were unanimously endorsing the casino set up in Massachusetts claiming that will create jobs while ignoring the proven social risks and the lack of guaranteed income in this trade.

Whereas, Dr.Stein emphasized the above outlined reasons behind her rejection to the casinos and instead committed to green jobs as the ideal alternative apart from improving and expanding the transportation facilities in the state of Massachusetts.

Dr.Jill Stein is an outsider with pragmatic approach to the burgeoning crises confronting the people of Massachusetts. Dr.Stein is the PEOPLE candidate and accordingly funded by the electorate desiring real change in their deteriorating economic conditions.

Dr.Stein’s campaign is exclusively built on public contributions to implement the Change in the electoral mandate.

http://www.jillstein.org/

Contrarily, the other contenders have the political party backing with corporate funding conspicuous in the special interests prepared state and national legislation leaving the ordinary citizens marginalized in the process.

Massachusetts has unique opportunity to elect the third party candidate genuinely dedicated to alleviate their plight in all aspects through diligence and practical measures epitomizing the authentic Change.

As stated above, it is not the party that matters but the policies and the candidates’ zeal to produce the anticipated outcome benefiting all rather than just the privileged groups in the society.

By electing the Green-Rainbow party candidate to the public office the Massachusetts voters would send a strong message to the special interests monopoly on the two political parties and potentially break the oligarchy influence in political campaigns.

Perhaps it could motivate the respective parties’ incumbents and new challengers to renounce the contemporary political practice and fulfill their obligation to the people electing them as their representatives to the office.

Hopefully, the Massachusetts electorate deserving strong leadership would set precedence by electing the Green-Rainbow candidate Dr.Jill Stein, the visionary with extraordinary credentials and impressive public service record fortified by the enormous passion to serve the people in the state regarded as the seat of intellect.

Best Wishes to Dr.Jill Stein for a glorious victory as the Governor of the State of Massachusetts in the November 2, 2010 election.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

On September 22, 2010, the 65th U.N. General Assembly session contributed to the
“2010 – International Year of Biodiversity.”

Biological diversity representing the ecosystems is on the decline threatening planet sustenance.

At the World Summit on Sustainable Development in 2002, 2005 and 2006 – The States committed to the biodiversity strategies and agenda, in addition to providing the necessary financial and technical resources to the developing nations.

The objectives during these summits were to efficiently reduce the biodiversity loss at the national, regional and global level as a contribution towards poverty alleviation and benefit to all life on Earth by 2010 that led to;

“The 2010 Biodiversity Target.”

It has been enacted with the Millennium Development Goals as part of Goal 7 on environmental sustainability.

Biodiversity is the life support for the ecosystems that helps the planet survival and the sensitivity cannot be underestimated.

The conservation and preservation action plans are continually challenged with the escalating energy demands and the twentieth century energy sources maintained by the leading industrialized nation such as the United States, the emerging economies and the developing nations.

Biological diversity comprises the mechanisms for the entire life species contributing to the evolutionary process.

The precipitous biodiversity loss could be attributed to a variety of human generated problems prominently pollution from carbon emissions, industrial chemical contamination, waste management negligence and above all deforestation, overfishing, whaling and dolphin hunting, mountain top removal in coal mining, off shore oil explorations, uranium mining for nuclear energy,

Notwithstanding the catastrophic environmental damages during and after incessant warfare in the vulnerable regions with the battered war survivors left breathing the highly contaminated air from White Phosphorous and the deadliest ammunitions used in the combat.

It’s clear that the environment is under assault from all directions – air, land and sea, despite the clean, renewable and natural energy sources available in the form of solar, wind, hydroelectric and biofuel methods.

The biodiversity loss reduction strategy could perhaps include the focus on the paradigm shift in energy use, industrial smoke elimination, technology operated recycling plants and prohibiting all of the above highlighted activities related to the systemic abuse of planet earth.

Biodiversity importance could be further elaborated with the emphasis on the natural elements – air and water.

Clean air and pure water is truly a blessing for an overwhelming world population deprived of the life dependent sources.

As stated above, the air and noise pollution is a growing detriment for healthy living especially in the densely populated urban areas of the developed and developing nations.

Biodiversity policy could be enhanced by promoting infrastructure investment, town planning – incentivizing people to move outskirts from the city parameter facilitated by rapid transportation for commute and modern conveniences with adequate power supply.

Simultaneously rewarding industries and residents for limited energy consumption, consolidating efforts in curbing pollution from automobiles, industrial smoke and civic habits through non-smoking zones in public areas and work place – such initiatives would complement the biodiversity strategy.

In the rural areas, the air pollution is largely associated with the lack of development in basic survival conditions – for coal still remains the only energy source in daily existence. The outdated machinery equipment used in the developing nations’ farming and agriculture could be replaced with modern technology.

To attain the biodiversity goals across the national, regional and global level, the measures need to be implemented at the origin responsible for the harmful environmental effects. Identifying the issues and resolving them with appropriate remedies could expedite achievement.

Water scarcity is experienced worldwide particularly among the developing nations and the rising economies. Within a nation, the water disputes between states are fairly contentious and the public suffering is exacerbated during hot summer season.

It’s also a fundamental cause for global poverty, hunger and disease. Without enough water the rural communities face tremendous obstacles in producing good harvest. The urbanites are equally affected with water shortage and the majority store water at every opportunity.

It is extremely hard on the poorer population in the absence of sanitation and basic living conditions consequently becoming the breeding ground for preventable yet life threatening diseases like malaria, diarrhea -severe among children, cholera, typhoid, tuberculosis, hepatitis…found among the population barely existing at or below the poverty level.

If the government and the private sector could combine resources in projects aimed at clean water distribution across the nation and direct funding to improve the living standards beginning with the poorest of the poor, then it would inevitably result in the environmental and economic gain.

There is yet another crucial component in containing the biodiversity deterioration i.e.

The natives involvement – Such as the natives from the Americas, the Inuit from the Arctic region, the different tribes in Sub-Saharan Africa, the Aborigines in Australia and the Adivasis in India…

Being the indigenous population and the responsible guardians of the planet, they would be able to guide as the natural expert in all matter related to ecosystem. Their immense understanding and accurate knowledge of the species in the Amazon Rain Forest, the Australian Great Barrier Reef or the Fauna of Africa…would allow the precise course of action required to sustain biodiversity.

The natives are instrumental in safeguarding the planet until the industrialization massive intervention with nature created the imbalance leading up to rising sea levels and global warming.

Unfortunately, the world has not paid much attention to the natives, the planet’s original inhabitants and their descendants secluded from the modern civilization’s economic progress.

Their dependents are deprived of good education, health facilities and proper housing accommodation. It is tragic to witness the natives’ plight while the remaining global society moves forward leaps and bounds.

Although 192 States reportedly ratified the Biodiversity Plan, the desirable status is yet to be realized due to misplaced priorities.

Since it’s a collective responsibility with a common goal – it’s paramount for all nations to pledge their strong support interpreted in actions to protect life on earth.

Every individual share equal burden to save the planet.

Hence, please rise to the occasion and ensure the “2010 Biodiversity Target” is a phenomenal success.

Best Wishes to the U.N. members and the organizations behind the Biodiversity Protocol.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

The island nation is in the process of shifting towards an economic model to rescue the state from the employment burden across the public sector.

State’s overwhelming expansion in all areas of the economy is forcing the government to change course in an effort to salvage the sagging public enterprises into private industry.

The combined woes of political sanctions, global economic crisis and natural disasters have produced massive revenue losses for the socialist system struggling to maintain the infrastructure.

As a result, Cuba has reportedly decided to lay off 500,000 state employees by March 2011 and promoting the private entrepreneurial opportunities by issuing business licenses to its population in a limited measure.

Such economic strategy is a wise move for Cuba and could potentially ease the pressure off the government funded organizations that are becoming unaffordable.

The underground economy that managed the private businesses in the state controlled environment is apparently being considered for legal recognition.

Again the consideration is a positive step that would guarantee state revenue through taxes and necessary fees besides facilitating free flow of goods and services not only within the island but across Latin America.

In terms of public education, health care, subsidized food and housing – Cuba could adhere to universal public education and health care alongside private developments in these areas forging a competitive market with enhanced services focused on research and innovation attracting the higher income groups upon the private sector growth.

With respect to subsidized food and housing – the state could perhaps reduce the percentage to the optimum based on means test for families with little or no income to address poverty and let the remaining population assist the market economy.

That way there is tremendous access for small businesses in the food supply enabling the wholesale and the medium to large size corporations to emerge in the long term.

Activating the manufacturing side is equally important for it would absorb the massive workforce expected to be without jobs following the state retrenchment.

The private markets cannot surface overnight without the adequately funded and regulated financial sector which in turn might require IMF and World Bank monetary assistance to expedite the transition.

Initially the federal authorities could divert the savings from the half a million workforce wages to the community banks for private sector lending and earn interest on the borrowings, thereby converting the state liability to income.

Cuba with a much better supply demand prognosis has a greater ability to implement the changes and prepare the Federal Reserve along with the Treasury to monitor the hybrid economic activities.

The questions are raised on Cuba’s capacity to import the essential resources and technology for the proposed transformation by March 2011 and relevantly the state’s action plan on the immediate income surge from the private economy boosting middle and higher earnings categories in the society.

Importing necessary items could be made possible by approaching current trade partners and the industrialized nations like the United States, Germany… have unique advantage in being the supplier especially with the higher end equipment and machinery contributing to the overall benefits in creating and retaining manufacturing jobs in their respective domain.

Obviously ending the economic trade sanctions would serve the international purpose.

Adjusting to the inevitable income hierarchy post economic model could be effectively addressed through a progressive tax structure that protects the lower income and the middle class while the wealthier groups offered tax incentives for domestic investments preventing tax evasions.

Cuba would prosper through reconciliation with reality in accepting the private enterprises
role and build the national economy with a harmonious balance between the state and free market owned assets.

Except for the regular public services, health care and education under state management – the vast areas of the economy are best run by the private industry delivering the people with quality products and services at a market price.

Any concerns about the capitalism risk experienced in the developed economies is legitimate and could be avoided with appropriate regulations comprising checks and balances for smooth operation.

In other matter, Cuba released seven dissidents in July 2010 and vowed to free the 52 political prisoners recently. These actions are praiseworthy and promising in improving human rights record which is significant to win the trust and confidence among the majority in the international community disappointed with the state human rights violation.

President Barack Obama pledge to lift travel ban allowing Cuban Americans and others to travel to Cuba is an optimistic beginning in the U.S – Cuban relationship for the policy would revive the flat travel industry with many dependent livelihoods.

Cuba is gradually heading towards the direction desirable by not only its people but also the global citizens. Similar initiatives in the political dimension would be highly beneficial now for Cuba considering the economic urgency and the trade sanctions posing obstacles for imports to mobilize privatization.

Nevertheless, it’s a refreshing start and there is hope for the Caribbean nation to make progress in every aspect.

As long as there is political determination to evolve and embrace the new possibilities then sky is the limit.

Best Wishes to the wonderful Cuban population for a bright future.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

The recent primaries indicate a strong surge among the Republican base compared to the Democrats and the independent voters.

There is urgency for the Democrats and the independents to get back into action similar to the tidal wave witnessed in 2008 to accomplish their goals.

Grievances on some issues among both groups are justified. However, they cannot be addressed without effective representation in the House and the Senate. Abstinence or the eleventh hour effort could only lead to more frustration allowing the conservative blockade to continue.

Both democrats and independents need candidates with high quality performance reflecting solid commitment to the people and environment. Candidates willing to stand up to the entities against public and national interest from corporate affair to military warfare, the two predominant factors contributing to the alarming national deficit and myriad of social-economic disparities deserve voter approval.

The Republican members are not the choice whether they are tea party candidate or establishment nominee for they represent the big industries and not the average citizens. It is confirmed in the ‘Nay’ votes on legislation concerning the economy and host of other issues since January 2009.

Likewise, the democratic establishment instrumental in opposing single payer system or public option in health care reform, closing loopholes in finance legislation and swaying to the energy behemoths’ call to adhere to fossil fuel, nuclear energy despite the misgivings and horrific mining accidents in the United States and around the world,

Last but not the least against troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, Iraq and elsewhere – owe valid explanation to the democratic base and independents for rejecting their voices in all these issues.

Democrats have struggled with legislative process in both Houses of Congress, more in the Senate than the House, even while being a majority in 2009 as seen during the contentious health care bill and economic issues.

It’s paramount for the industry, union or any special interest backed candidates to be transparent and clarify their true representations on all things related to the American electorate in addition to providing legitimate reasons for not demonstrating them in action.

The voters have an obligation to identify their requirements and choose the candidate with proven record or having demonstrated the will to challenge the forces undermining democracy on all issues.

Essentially pragmatism over ideology enhanced by inclusive rather than divisive positions would yield bipartisan solutions to the problems confronting the nation.

Republican legislators have absolved themselves from constitutional duty to work with the Democrat majority in legislative matter throughout Obama Presidency letting partisanship prevail in life threatening issues such as jobless benefit extension, small business lending and 9/11 rescue workers health care assistance.

Unfortunately, the persisting Republican opposition on legislation to benefit average Americans fails to recognize the social and economic cost ultimately affecting all in the interdependent society with the irony being the national deficit used as a pretext in this context.

Democrats, independents and disenchanted republicans have a great opportunity to come together this election in electing the officials pledging allegiance to the American people and not the oligarchy responsible for the Washington status quo.

The electability criteria in consistent with the constitutional oath is the real test for the new contenders and the incumbents alike.

They could precisely be the following:

Disavow partisanship, declining special interests influence and,

Above all maintain ethical standards through accountability with corruption in politics being a worldwide epidemic denying progress to a substantial population living in abject poverty and lifelong miseries.

Honesty and integrity determines human character, yet it’s not an integral element in the quest for public office.

In fact, the systemic abuse of power is the fundamental cause of the contemporary social and economic inequality.

American electorates hold the power to implement these changes in Washington through the electoral process that could restore the broken system and renew the tarnished image.

Voting is no longer an option but an absolute necessity to rescue the nation from the repeat catastrophe experienced at the dawn of twenty first century under President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney.

Besides, voting is a constitutional right granted to citizens in a democracy to protect their civil liberties and freedom from internal or external threats.

American electorates have awesome responsibility to elect the hard working, diligent and trustworthy officials not only to represent them in the United States but also the fellow citizens across the globe.

Congressional decisions made in Washington impact the approximate 6.5 billion people destiny.

Therefore, it is imperative to ensure the massive voter turnout in November 2010 or earlier in states like Ohio facilitating mail-in ballots.

First time voters may register in their local districts and join the other electorates to cast their votes on or before the election date provided it is permissible.

Democrats, independents and disillusioned republicans – please contribute to
Democracy for America (DFA) dedicated to the positive change in Washington and across the United States at:

http://www.democracyforamerica.com

Also, Please help Senator Barbara Boxer in raising $200,000 by September 18, 2010 for media fund. It’s a daunting task. Nonetheless, the Senator’s campaign is grassroots funded unlike her opponent Carly Fiorina – financed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce apart from the contestant’s personal campaign investment.

Please visit www.barbaraboxer.com for your affordable and generous donations.

Most importantly, please secure your future and the dependents prospects by casting your vote as early as possible.

Please rally America via email, texting or visiting DFA to energize voters.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant
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