PadminiArhant.com
Global Poverty Alleviation – Micro Lending Myths and Management
January 13, 2011
By Padmini Arhant
The greatest challenge confronting humanity is alleviating poverty, hunger and disease.
With global population on the rise, the gulf between the rich and poor widening – the worldwide statistics in deaths related to starvation and preventable disease is alarmingly high especially among children, the most vulnerable victims in the human caused misery.
There is no doubt that many organizations such as the United Nations, Government and Non-Governmental efforts in the developing countries including some philanthropists from different corners are striving hard to address this issue to their best of ability.
Their commitment in this regard is remarkable for the situation would be worse in the absence of myriad interventional measures.
As for the industrialized and developed nations’ role in containing the growing humanitarian plight – the G-20 pledge to contribute $100 billion to developing nations is honorable but yet to be exemplified through action.
In the domestic front – economic austerity is adopted in dealing with fiscal crisis.
However, the disproportionate and drastic cuts have been largely aimed at essential services affecting the economically disadvantaged in the society.
The status quo in the United States is attributed to economic policy that facilitated corporate activities with no oversight subsequently rewarding with bailouts, tax cuts and estate tax relief extended recently shifting the national debt burden to the struggling vast majority.
According to U.S. Department of Agriculture, about 50 million Americans of which 17 million children are reported to suffer from hunger due to limited affordability. Nearly 13 percent of the U.S. population is stated to be in abject poverty.
Further data reveals that 200 lives could be saved from starvation for the price of one missile.
Last August, the U.S. Senate passed the Healthy,Hunger-Free Kids Act but the legislation is pending congressional approval.
Hence the112th Congress is requested to prioritize this matter over other issues.
Internationally – of the multitude projects underway to assist poorer communities from the burgeoning economic disparity,
Micro lending is the cornerstone to uplift human living standards targeting women empowerment through entrepreneurship proved to thrive in the systems not prone to administrative corruption and/or bureaucratic meddling.
Any program’s long term success is dependent upon the implementation requiring constant review and monitoring at the macro management.
In micro operation the selective criticism against the concept highlighting the lenders’ alleged practices and soaring profits compared with Wall Street gains as modest and creditors’ demeanor mild towards borrowers is indicative of political adaptation to discredit one and appease another when the debtors experience with Wall Street firms confirm otherwise.
Nonetheless the mostly rural based micro financing recipients rely on lenders and their representatives’ verbal explanation about the contract. The misinformation incidents are less when the customers have basic education and understand the terms without being misled in the loan finance.
Usually these mechanisms work better with non-profit organizations having volunteers to perform the necessary tasks from initiating the deal until debt settlement.
Whenever materialism is eliminated in public service it not only cultivates good work ethics but also yields the desirable outcome.
Providing credit to individuals for various businesses is preliminary step and the loan default could be due to circumstances within and beyond human control.
Using successful business as model and incentivizing them to lead others in the village and urban areas could pervasively replicate results.
The major impediments for human progress among the poorest are – lack of education, access to water let alone clean water, inhumane living conditions and environmental disasters rendering survival a mere stroke of luck than individual capability to overcome the odds in life.
For the population in war zones, the expectations are none considering the persistent chaos and carnage depleting human endurance to the point of welcoming end rather than a beginning to life.
When measuring human achievements since the dawn of life on earth – it has been phenomenal in the technological front.
Notwithstanding the ingenuity and innovation in modern science, space exploration… admirably demonstrated in the formidable quest to conquer air, land and ocean.
It is imperative to emphasize that the monumental feat would not have been possible without unified contribution enhanced by diverse talent in reaching for the stars once considered a pleasant dream but not a reality.
If similar passion and dedication were applied in minimizing human suffering overshadowing the significant accomplishments then perhaps the existence of hierarchical societies – the privileged against the less fortunate and downtrodden could diminish bringing fresh hope for all on the horizon.
Natural empathy together with peace and love towards mankind possess incredible power to transcend elements obstructing the path to equality.
Pragmatically the present dystopian society transformation for universal good largely remains with collective responsibility towards self and others.
Sharing knowledge and cherished treasures in life accentuates the joy of giving guaranteed with exceedingly greater returns.
Moreover the humanitarian deeds are never without a positive effect for it enables the human character to evolve surpassing self-promotion.
Political and economic infusion undermines humanitarian missions for it is perceived as a political threat by those in power while the investors view as an economic opportunity.
Grameen Bank and parallel mediums could potentially revolutionize under developed demography through reinvestments instead of redirecting profits in the venture.
The tax exemption when utilized to increase productivity at various levels has substantial prospects for economic development.
In conclusion, micro lending is promising and an effective catalyst to improve social and economic status in any surroundings.
The U.N. Millennium development goals are attainable through accelerated growth and sustenance of similar humanitarian projects.
Humanity future is bright with care and compassion towards all living beings.
Peace to all!
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
International Recognition of Israeli Palestinian Peace Process
January 10, 2011
By Padmini Arhant
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
Sudan Secession Referendum
January 7, 2011
By 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
The 112th Congress begins on January 5, 2011
January 5, 2011
By 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
Happy New Year – The World Welcomes 2011!
January 2, 2011
By 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.
Padmini Arhant
Happy New Year!
December 31, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
The world welcomes 2011. New Year Greetings to all!
Wishing every citizen around the world,
Happy, Prosperous and Peaceful New Year!
Padmini Arhant
Dr. Jill Stein – Green-Rainbow Party Candidate for Governor of Massachusetts
October 22, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
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.
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
War and Geo-Political Status 20th Century
October 7, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
The global economy is still far from recovery and most nations are dealing with austerity, Europe in particular much against their population will.
Meanwhile, among them an overwhelming majority have disproportionate defense budget that is not targeted in the spending cuts. United States has an exceptionally higher defense expenditure that is invariably passed with bipartisan approval regardless of the political party in power.
Whereas, the other life threatening issues concerning jobs, health care, social security, housing…are usually subjective to filibuster and marginalization at the worst resulting in a meaningless final product.
The contemporary society is currently confronted with the so-called war on terror. Although terrorism took birth in the twentieth century predominantly through Middle East conflicts, it escalated in the twenty first century with 9/11 becoming the premise for relentless warfare fomenting terrorism seeing no end in sight.
After two world wars to contain imperialism, fascism and ‘Great Depression,’ the expectation among the international community was long lasting peaceful environment with the governments focused on alleviating poverty, hunger and disease contributing to a healthy habitat for all living beings.
Subsequently the United Nations Charter was created with the U.N. Security Council formation comprising the five nations – United States, United Kingdom, Russia, China and France maintaining the status quo until now, despite the titanic shift in the economic realm over the latter part of the twentieth century leading till date.
The authorities then in power with the responsibility to establish peace and harness diplomatic relations, instead steered in the opposite direction with communism rising in the former Soviet Union, Germany in the West and the entire Eastern Europe as well as China influencing South East Asia.
It’s noteworthy that the arms race proliferated rather than being terminated at the end of world wars with the United States and the then Soviet union followed by the remaining Security Council members successfully conducting their nuclear test that empowered them as the largest nuclear arsenal holders and continue to remain so.
Further, the U.N. Security Council members’ illegal invasions and occupations in the aftermath of the world wars proceeded throughout the twentieth and now into the twenty first century with certain occupied territories annexed as the regional state again at the prevailing horrendous humanitarian plight such as Tibet, Palestinian territories and the disputed regions in the Middle East and elsewhere.
The cold war between the two major powers – the United States and the Soviet Union vying for ‘Super Power’ status caused the ‘United Nations’ to split with the two contenders choosing partners conciliatory to their respective political positions at that time.
In the sixties, it is also well known that the cold war brought the two major powers on the brink of nuclear confrontation with the Cuban Missile crisis.
Notwithstanding the Korean War notably the significant armed Cold War conflict with the reunification negotiations eventually evolved into a proxy war sponsored by the three U.N. Security Council members – the U.S., Soviet Union and China.
The infamous Vietnam War spreading to the neighboring Cambodia and Laos certainly aroused the anti-war sentiments in the United States and around the world at its peak but it did not necessarily deter the wars in Africa, Latin America, Central Asia and the Middle East with the United States and the other permanent U.N. Security Council members involved in almost all of them either directly or indirectly as the arms supplier including the combat forces viz. Afghanistan on the ground.
Increased military aid to Indonesia in 1977 at the height of the East Timorese massacre produced more than one-third i.e. around 200,000 East Timor population deaths in war related starvation, disease and atrocities.
Likewise in 1978 the military aid to Central America against the Sandinistas in Nicaragua and similar assistance to El Salvador compounded the regional turmoil with incredible loss of lives from brutal killings.
In 1979, the U.S. tax payers’ approximately $40 billion dollars investment to train Mujahedeen in Afghanistan generated Osama Bin Laden.
Arguably, the United States footprints in Latin America and Middle East are comparatively prominent with the other members concentrating in their region, Central Asia and Africa.
However, the genocide from the civil wars in Africa through the permanent U.N. Security Council members’ arms trade and distribution was entirely ignored since 1991 and up until now – such as the Democratic Republic of Congo referred to as ‘African World War,’ Burundi, Rwanda earlier on, and Darfur, Sudan.
It’s imperative to mention Haiti during the Democratic and Republican administrations’ at the White House going back to 1977 when agreements were made to decline Haitian refugees asylum claims and between 1990 and up until now – the Democratically elected popular leader Jean Bertrand Aristide indefinitely exiled in South Africa.
The combined powerful U.S.and NATO forces delayed intervention in Bosnia, Herzegovina or for that matter regrettable deliberation on Rwanda rescue operation could be regarded worthwhile, leaving other missions a territorial conquest and/or an economic interest.
It’s obvious that the military industrial complex war strategy is the same with the players alternated between the two major political parties in the United States and the trend replicated in other western democracies as the permanent U.N. Security council members.
Twentieth century wars fought in the regions desperately seeking economic and social development were categorically denied the opportunities to merge with the rest of the world converting those nations into a fertile ground for terror recruitment.
Therefore, the cyclical violence is a revenue source for the conventional and the nuclear weapons industry at the horrendous loss of lives and economic cost.
That raises many questions surrounding the wars and the global community priority in the tough economic times. They are evaded with no logical explanation often confirming the doubts in the public mind.
The war architects owe the domestic and international citizenry evidence based legitimate reason for the decade old conflicts severely affecting the weak and the vulnerable in the so-called war on terror.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
XIX Commonwealth Games Grand Opening Ceremony – Delhi, India
October 4, 2010
By Padmini Arhant
Heartfelt Congratulations! To India, especially Delhi, the XIX Commonwealth Games host on the spectacular extravaganza prominently showcased at the ‘Gala Opening Ceremony,’ held on October 3, 2010 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi.
You did it! That too with magnificent glory and pride.
It’s a testimony that whenever human talent is challenged with the ‘impossible’ verdict, the inspirational spirit within guides to rise to the occasion and prove it otherwise.
The ceremony is an amazing feat for the vibrant civilization unfolded in the twenty first century technological era in perfect harmony and wrapped in a colorful cultural performance depicting the magical kingdom of India through the refracted prism images from the spectrum of light illuminating the sky with mesmerizing fireworks.
Technology oriented themes such as the ‘Aerostat,’ a large helium balloon raised to the 25 meters height above the ground, decorated with mirrors and rainbow lights is designed to project high resolution video occurrence and visuals at 360 degrees in addition to synchronizing with the parade on the ground.
The enthralling presentation was one of a kind appreciated with the spectators’ continuous applause in sheer bewilderment.
The live shows on stage were captivating with seven thousand artistes from diverse cultural background performed with great enthusiasm creating a parallel universe by revealing the caliber among the unsung maestros in classical, folk and modern music and dance.
The co-ordination in this context was in itself a tremendous tribute to the choreography.
The long cherished Indian cultural heritage was exhibited in the pageantry winning the hearts and minds of the audience at home and around the world.
Synthesizing innovation with tradition produces a unique effect profoundly highlighting the characteristics in ancient art and modern techniques.
India is naturally suitable for such experiment given the enriched antiquity and the phenomenal technological endowments together contributing to the ravishing display.
Around seventy one nations are participating in various sports activities and the solidarity was evident during the opening ceremony.
The assimilation of these nations with a common pledge to build new relations and enhance old ties through sports is an admirable humanitarian goal.
There is abundant opportunity through international sports to heal and reconcile differences for mutual progress in every dimension.
Sports and entertainment are often the ice-breakers in the frozen diplomatic channels facilitating renewed hope for a fresh beginning.
Nations could seize the floating chance to reflect, pause and proceed with a dialogue conciliatory to both parties.
Many unresolved disputes have been revived due to sincere engagement and amicable approach in the contentious issues ultimately yielding the desirable outcome.
As for the competitiveness in the related sports at the international level, the athletes representing each nation would justifiably aim for their victory and every other contender in that respect is a potential threat to them.
Again, maintaining a balanced strategy that would enable accomplishment without compromising sportsmanship is ideal to promote sports acumen, teamwork and national image.
Being the ambassadors for the respective nations, the athletes have an awesome responsibility to demonstrate qualities helping them to win in the relevant field while protecting the national interest.
Although most participants excel in interpersonal skills, sometimes incidents evolve into an unnecessary controversy.
In other matter, it’s imperative to focus on the outstanding security efforts and the final preparation leading to the Commonwealth Games commencement splendor.
The entire games village is equipped with surveillance cameras, tight security measures and above all guarded by an estimated eight thousand Indian commandos for the athletes, visitors and residents’ 24/7 safety.
All of the minor and major problems pertaining to the initial delay appear to have been effectively addressed in compliance with the international standard and to the sports community’s optimal satisfaction.
Prime Minister Man Mohan Singh, Congress Party Leader Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, Home Minister P. Chidambaram, Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, Indian Commonwealth Games organizing committee members and above all the workers at the bottom delegated to the finishing tasks deserve recognition for a superb finále.
The impressive organizing is attributed to the excellent management and,
An unequivocal commitment to prevail against all odds from the top bottom ensured success.
However, it’s essential to preserve and possibly expand the status quo comprehensively to strengthen future prospects.
A valuable lesson from the recent experience is – a resilient unified input guaranteed to triumph in the extenuating circumstances.
India exemplified the notion with grace, charm and exceptional fanfare.
On that optimistic note, signing off with deep gratitude and acknowledgment for the fabulous start of the XIX Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, India.
Good Luck! And Best Wishes to all athletes from different parts of the world in realizing their dreams at the international event.
Thank you.
Padmini Arhant
The 65th U.N. General Assembly honors 2010 – International Year of Biodiversity
September 27, 2010
By 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
My Life – Autobiography by Padmini Achintya Arhant
Upcoming Podcasts and Website Accessibility – Padmini Arhant
OM Nama Sivaya – Glory to Almighty God!
OM Nama Sivaya - Glory to Almighty God !
Traditions from Abroad – Men in Tradition
EVIl invites PERIL
Happy Pongal! Happy Makara Sankaranthi! 2025
Happy Pongal!
2025
Padmini Arhant
Image Credit: Artist via paid subscription source. Thank you.
FASCISM WRIT LARGE AS THE SO-CALLED DEMOCRAT
FYI : California Franchise Tax Board
Sacramento, CA
For the umpteenth time – Please refer to the third letter dated June 13, 2024 received by you with signed delivery confirmation. The letter with proof of tax payment on August 23, 2023 with 2022 tax return e-filing, bank confirmation on the payment and email references were all enclosed for your reference and settlement on this matter.
Yet, for political reasons the weaponization of taxpayer funded State and federal departments and agencies trending since 2009 – 2016 against then Republican Tea Party by Barack Obama in personal vendetta against them for questioning Barry Soetoro’s birth certificate was responded with terminating the Republican Tea Party in the first term in 2012. It was just the tip of the iceberg.
The trend then continued against political opponent Donald Trump from impeachment proceedings to libel suits with no end in sight.
Similar tactics deployed against me and my family by the same members i. e. The OBAMAS having abused and continue to use and abuse our presence, profile and all things politically and personally exclusively beneficial to them from DAY ONE until now by tagging, trolling, pirating anything positive and impressive for image enhancement despite being warned to cease and desist.
Notwithstanding thousands of $$$ fraudulently amassed from us by the fleecing scammers, abusers and parasitic exploiters till date make them indebted to me personally and my family.
Politics’ underhanded bullying and harassment is sheer desperation in the face of own extinction.
If you can’t express gratitude as the chief beneficiaries of our timeless sacrifice and benevolence, the least you could do is abandon the self-destructive attitude hurting you in the attempt to harm others.
By the way – nothing to do with Angel Reese and anyone with Brown last name in your nuanced attacks directed at me. They are all yours and you can keep them.
That goes for Kamala Harris – the name Kamala adopted from my explanation of my first name conveniently plagiarized for political and fortune harvesting in your end game once again for en masse deception like in 2009 – 2016.
The same resumed in 2021 – 2024 with blatant intention to extend the sham indefinitely with ludicrous WOKISM.
Originality and FAKE distinction is authenticity never in requirement to be anything other than true self unlike the impostor ever remaining fraudsters in vain.
Padmini Arhant
Character Not Color That Ever Matters
Lord Ram emphasized on deeds aka Karma not creed that matter in living and after life.Dr. King – related to that by echoing the content of the character not color that matters.
It’s time to move towards clear aka colorless society and nurture the importance of deeds with merit and virtues instead of remaining stuck in color coding society. Such trend only reveal opportunism with polarization rather than unity and harmony amongst human race.
Padmini Arhant
Exploitation – Knows Nothing About Gratitude and Truthfulness
Padmini Arhant – Gaza War and Rafah Air Strike
Padmini Arhant – PadminiArhant.online
Independent Free Palestine – Jan 2024 Speech
Celebration – Bright, Beautiful & Picturesque
Bright, Beautiful & Picturesque
Swastika – The Sacred Symbol – All is Well
Organic Intelligence Erring!
The ones flaunting the so-called organic intelligence with constant jibes at the allegedly artificial intelligence could perhaps seek assistance from the latter in spelling adjectives correctly to make sense of the message. Even basic spell check feature would serve the requirement.
The country is indeed precious not prescious than any individual, entity, political party, institution and organization.
Needless to say, it is applicable all around without exception.
Unlike the trend, smothered in hypocrisy beckoning others to do what is apparently unacceptable to selves to the extent of blasphemy.
Padmini Arhant
Get over the 🤚🏽✋✌🏼✌️✌🏿 🙏🏽🙏🏻🙏🏽🙏🙏🏿 mania!
Get over the mania!
🙏🏽🙏🏻🙏🏽🙏🙏🏿
mania as that is not going to deliver what is aimed at and desired in vain except confirming your asinine indulgence.Besides in politics such as Indian corrupt criminal signature trait is exclusively yours and no monkey see monkey do act can change it for it is attached to you like skin and bone.
Padmini Arhant
Padmini Arhant with Divinity Shiva
Celebration of Lord Krishna
Message to Humanity – Padmini Arhant
Spread peace and engage in non-violence. Speak truth with courage. Heed your conscience. Respect life. Serve your nation and people with honesty and integrity. Espouse human values and exemplify in deeds with care and compassion. Voice concern over injustice. Be part of the solution and not the problem. Love mankind and environment for universal harmony.
Peace is Eternal Bliss.Padmini Arhant
தமிழ் புத்தாண்டு 2022 நல் வாழ்த்துக்கள்! Tamil New Year 2022 Greetings!
Padmini Arhant and Roshni Greeted by the Brilliant Light in the Horizon
Words of Wisdom from Venerable Gautam Buddha
Words of Wisdom from Venerable Gautam Buddha
Tamil OM Symbol & Pranava Manthiram
Absolute Truth
Reunion with Divinity God Shiva at Holy Mt.Kailash 2019
Padmini Arhant interaction with God Shiva during Parikrama of Mt.Kailash
Padmini Arhant Kailash Lake Manasarovar Pilgrimage 2019
Padmini Arhant on Parikrama or Circumambulation of Mt. Kailash
ARHANT Family at Famous Taj Mahal
Gautam Buddha’s Words of Wisdom
Peace Pledge
