India – Mumbai blasts and Terror Attacks

July 17, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

The financial capital Mumbai, India was once again targeted with bomb blasts on July 13, 2011 resulting in civilian casualties and injured victims notwithstanding public frustration over repeat attacks emanating from serious security lapse in the nation’s commercial center.

Whenever terrorism leaves footprints, the trail leads to easy access of materials used to detonate bombs and live ammunitions in the open market.

The intelligence failure including lack of coordination among the national and foreign intelligentsia also contributes to terror activities in the technological era.

As stated above, the stockpiles availability through defense industry channels facilitates terrorism that otherwise would be hard to emerge causing immense human suffering.

The terror networks presence in Pakistan and elsewhere further confirms the unsuccessful global war on terror despite trillions of U.S. taxpayer dollars spent in pursuing the terror groups over a decade.

Political will and military decision to replace combat forces with peace keeping personnel to promote economic development and political stability in the war torn regions would substantially impact terror recruitment enabling the local and disenfranchised population to be productive in the respective society.

Terrorism is a by-product of ill-informed and dejected citizens deprived of fair economic opportunities, political rights and social justice.

Terror operatives utilize the disadvantaged demography to convey their political objectives with no regard for life creating perpetual violence and social discord.

Authorities could infiltrate the operation with effective non-violent strategies rewarding terror plot informants to deter attacks and involve civilian vigilance in addition to law enforcement officers deployment.

Terror alerts as precursor in preparing for potential assault would be credible upon preventing frequent incidents in massive scale and the vulnerable cities like Mumbai as well as other metropolitan areas that are continually attacked could benefit from widespread monitoring in all fronts – air, land and sea,

Besides trustworthy intelligence sharing between various agencies committed to eliminating terror as a global challenge.

Above all, nations bear responsibility in extraditing terror assailants for trials in the inflicted domains without granting them impunity for political reasons.

The conspirators protected by their governments’ inaction or refusal to cooperate in the necessary investigation and subsequent legal proceedings become the catalyst for future terrorism given the amnesty to terror related arrests from foreign nations.

Governments’ role is critical in honoring victims’ plight regardless of terror striking home or across the border.

Response on humanitarian grounds transcending political differences would categorically emphasize solidarity to terror networks and possibly debilitate organizational effort to sabotage peace.

In the absence of comprehensive cohesion among nations fighting terror, the individual aspirations would remain a monumental task producing false sense of invincibility for the relatively inferior terror establishments.

Unified forces against terror sources would permanently dismantle terror camps and bring lasting relief to the world.

The state and central government pledge to curb such explosions in Mumbai and other parts of the country would be sound when public safety is not compromised at any level arising from broken chain link in communication and implementation process.

Adequate funding for national security also boosts precautionary measures against terrorism.

Compensation to victims’ families is helpful but defending nationals from falling prey to violence is nation’s priority.

The ruling and opposition power concerted actions in this respect would strengthen national defense.

With heartfelt condolences to victims’ families on the loss of precious lives, prayers offered on the mournful event July 13, 2011 for the departed souls to rest in peace along with rapid recovery of those hurt in the horrific crime against humanity.

Hopefully the healing would bring solace to grieving survivors and provide them fortitude to endure life ordeal.

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

http://youtu.be/7nIics7gGh8 http://youtu.be/9C92rpNRwKE http://youtu.be/S5JM7-PQda0 http://youtu.be/QyQSpIgaYXQ http://youtu.be/EMg-gD2vtcE

Dalit Representation in the LokPal Panel

April 23, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

The statement from the Lokpal committee undecided member Mr. Santosh Hegde on dalit representation that-

“Lokpal panel is five men panel with no room for such representation.  Such request made to derail Lokpal bill” is precisely required to be transcended with their inclusion in the highly politicized national cause.

Lokpal panel claimed to be premised on Mahatma Gandhi’s principles yet disenfranchising the society’s specific segment – the dalits unequivocally supported by Mahatma Gandhi in the crusade for social reform is contradictory to Gandhian philosophy of inclusiveness rather than exclusivity.

Further the committee need not be strictly restricted to five members considering the representation of a secular diverse society in every aspect.

The female member absence in the committee pronounces the gender alienation and therefore the recommendation of Mrs. Kiran Bedi, a dedicated social activist with relevant knowledge in the matter was made to reflect the contemporary society.

It is important for all concerned parties to prioritize national interest and set aside the personal and political differences for greater good.

The unique opportunity is available to exemplify the individual commitment to national service without heeding to distractions from sources against the phenomenal step to renew the image of a country that was established in moral and ethical governance.

Again it is earnestly hoped that Lokpal bill will be passed with overwhelming approval in the Parliament to begin a new chapter in history for the world’s largest democracy.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

 

 

India – Anti-Corruption Bill By Indian Civil Society

April 22, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

Indian politics is not different from the rest of the world on issues like public dissatisfaction with bureaucracy, corruption and political scandals.

In fact politics without corruption is analogous to fish on the land with the permeating odor affecting the surroundings upon contact.

Indian society has been long dealing with corruption from top down in public and private sector.  The nation has developed immunity to the virus resistant to both prevention and cure.

India’s independence movement began with sentiments contained on the surface and underneath simmering frustration on the bondage endured in homeland from foreign oppression.

If not for the strong and courageous leadership of the nation’s founding father – Mahatma Gandhi and several committed freedom fighters,

Indian history would perhaps be similar to the nations struggling for political liberty in the twenty first century.

Subsequently complacency to corruption, nepotism and cronyism predominantly contributed to the status quo – tax evasions, embezzlement, money hoarded in Swiss bank accounts and tax havens, complicity to atrocity against humanity,

Notwithstanding systemic abuse of power benefitting the powerful, affluent and influential in the society with demography at the lower economic strata marginalized including lagging investments in infrastructure and green technology.

As previously mentioned, no political faction is “Sanctus Stephanus Protomartyr” given the erupting political scandals.

The prolonged investigations and judicial process are still underway with prime suspects committing suicide or fleeing town to avoid trials against them.

Invariably all political parties and governments slighted the citizens’ voices against corruption and requests to address the issue over four decades leading to the recent hunger strike by a seventy two year old citizen Anna Hazare – reportedly Mahatma Gandhi follower, a former soldier in the Indian Army then a community organizer and later became a social activist.

The senior citizen Anna Hazare claimed to have written to Prime Minister DR. Man Mohan Singh and the ruling Congress Party President Mrs. Sonia Gandhi earlier this year on the worsening corruption situation.  Mr. Anna Hazare confirmed there was no response from either political leader to the plea.

Mr. Anna Hazare launched his fasting in mid-April that soon galvanized into national rally demanding government attention to the overwhelming corruption charges and allegations against ruling as well as opposition political parties at the central and state levels.

Indian citizens gathered in large numbers seeking a committee with members representing the civil society and the legislators from the government to draft a bill against corruption through robust measures to curb the epidemic stalling progress in many frontiers,

Besides tarnishing the image of a great nation poised to lead the world in the most challenging era.

The government’s agitation in accepting the civil society proposition on the committee with fair representation on both sides was evident in the developments involving the panelists nominated by Mr. Anna Hazare.

If the government approach was to adopt a high moral ground in exemplifying the important legislation’s ethical efficacy then it would have been appropriate to begin with their members – the four prominent cabinet ministers as eminent legal minds albeit not without political baggage in their respective domain.

Congress Party has been inundated with numerous allegations from 2G-Spectrum scam, Commonwealth Games Funds misappropriation, bribery charges during vote of confidence in 2008 to the direct implications of the political alliance with DMK and the Chief Minister Karunanidhi in Tamil Nadu.

Notwithstanding the corruption cases dropped against the Italian businessman Ottavio Quattrocchi in the Bofors Scandal by the Congress led government in 2009 and,

Closure of CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) probe in the criminal investigation against Mr. Quattrocchi per the Delhi High Court decision in March 2011 concluded after 250 crores Indian Rupees approximately $50 million expenditure in 25 years producing no result.

Likewise on the opposition front, the BJP protection to the Karnataka Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa alleged dealings and the CM’s defiance in every respect reveals the impunity granted to members across the political spectrum.

The Congress Party President Mrs. Sonia Gandhi’s letter to Mr. Anna Hazare clarifying the disdain for smear campaign against the civil society panel,

Amid the Congress Party General Secretary Digvijaya Singh and the potential coalition partner Amar Singh relentless attacks against Lokpal committee members proved contradictory to the national party position rendering Mrs. Sonia Gandhi’s statements disingenuous based on the reality.

It is well known that politics is served with selective memory and made obvious in Mr. Digvijaya Singh’s analogy of the Congress government’s former Union Minister for Communications and Information Technology Mr. A. Raja – currently held in prison on 2G-Spectrum scandal in the remark against Lokpal committee representatives Mr. Shanti Bhusan and family.

Mr. Anna Hazare began the honorable mission against anti-corruption on the beleaguered victims behalf comprising the vast national majority.

The committee members notably Mr. Shanti Bhushan and his son Prashant Bhushan were nominated by Mr. Anna Hazare despite reservations within the support network on possible nepotism assertions from the groups against the bill.

Furthermore Mr. Anna Hazare previously insisted upon retaining the Bhushans for their legal expertise in parallel to the government’s delegates in the committee.

Now in the wake of controversies emanating from the incumbent party members and government officials’ concerted efforts against civil society panel,

Mr. Anna Hazare is reported to have distanced from his nominees Mr. Shanti Bhusan and Mr. Prashant Bhushan.

Since the legislation concerns the society posing imminent threat to the moral fabric of the nation known for noble Kings and in modern times the patriotic statesmen allegiance to truth, honesty and integrity,

It would be in national interest to select Lokpal (civil society) committee members subject to meeting the specific criteria on legal background i.e. specializing in ethical framework for the society at large combined with legislative procedures and constitutional law.

Mr. Shanti Bhushan and Mr. Prashant Bhushan could relieve the committee from their involvement and let the civil society proceed with the selection of the necessary emissaries in drafting the historic bill.

Social activists Arvind Kejriwal and Kiran Bedi deserve participation in the committee considering their knowledge, familiarity with social plight, dedication and unflinching determination to prevail in the national cause.

It is equally crucial to invite representation from the segments deemed outcasts viz. the dalits in the society.

The non-discriminatory bill aptly reflecting the compliance requirement regardless of political, economic and social stature with legal consequences is paramount to deter corruption and other prevalent crimes related to unethical conduct and immoral dealings costing taxpayers apart from draining national treasury.

Due diligence is necessary to ensure loopholes free legislation to prevent circumvention by authorities at the helm to the bottom.

India could set precedence in passing the monumental legislation and successfully implement the law for national good.

Congress Party and the government through finance minister Mr. Pranab Mukherjee pledged to introduce the bill during the monsoon session and the conciliatory exchange is welcome.

The initial acknowledgment of the corrosive elements in the system is a refreshing start and devising methods for systematic elimination required to promote effective legislation.

Although democracy is vibrant with myriad views and opinions on the public matter, the objections from the government’s surrogates characterizing the civil society locally known as Lokpal as ‘anarchists’ and,

The spokespersons interpreting the citizens’ call for government reaction after waiting over forty three years as ‘impatience’ clearly demonstrates the polarity between the mainstream and the political establishment.

The apprehensions on civil society presenting the agenda is ironic in a democracy with the constitution set up to represent the government of the people, by the people and for the people – the recognition ominously missing in the present environment.

When the privileged and the political class could safeguard their prospects through active and passive input in the Parliamentary actions, it is rather prejudicial to question the ordinary citizens’ synonymous rights especially them experiencing the brunt of the widespread corruption in the society.

The government and the members against the anti-corruption bill are urged to refrain from mud slinging witnessed up until now for negativities hurt those harboring than the ones aimed at in the karmic and pragmatic sense.

It is sincerely hoped that the civil society would exercise sound reasoning and judgment in choosing the committee legal experts and the government on their part offer cooperation in constructing a formidable legislation and deliver the promise to eradicate corruption.

Upholding transparency and accountability is a key factor with a unique opportunity for the government to utilize the event by allowing the committee meeting to take place in public view via live broadcast.

Good Luck! To civil society and political leaderships in the social as well as political reform victory.

Thank you.

 

Padmini Arhant

 

 

 

 

 

 

India Wins the World Cup Cricket 2011

April 2, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

Heartfelt Congratulations! To Indian Cricket team for a spectacular victory in the riveting game with billion fanfares cheering the Indian troop on the battle ground against formidable Sri Lanka.

Sri Lankan team impressively challenged the Indian side that contributed to earning the prestigious title.

The incredible performance from the Indian batsmen particularly Gautam Gambhir assuming responsibility at the critical position joined by the Indian Captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni and later Yuvraj Singh led India to the anticipated victory.

Gautam Gambhir and others deserve due recognition with an award for their commitment that guaranteed the end result.

Team efforts from India and Sri Lanka made the grand finale a historic moment to prove the respective caliber in the most popular sport revered by the people across the Indian sub-continent.

The Indian team demonstrated resolve in rising to the occasion and delivered their promise by winning the most coveted trophy.

It is Dusserah for India – a festival time rejoicing the glorious triumph in the hard fought final match.

Indian Cricket team makes India proud in winning the World Cup Championship.

Best Wishes to Sri Lanka in their future endeavor and India for continuous success in every frontier.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

World Cup Cricket Final 2011

April 2, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

The mega sports event grand finale is scheduled to begin momentarily.

Indian and Sri Lankan Cricket team have an opportunity to display their extraordinary talent.

Good Luck! For a spectacular game between the two popular teams – India and Sri Lanka.

Rest to follow upon conclusion of the much awaited cricket extravaganza.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

India in the World Cup Cricket Final

March 30, 2011

By Padmini Arhant,

Congratulations! To Indian Cricket team on the fabulous victory that has swept them to the final match to be held in Mumbai, India on April 2nd, 2011 against Sri Lanka.

Compliments extended to the Pakistani Cricket team for a spectacular fight to clinch the title.  The sports spirit was maintained throughout the game.

All are winners in a competition for individual contribution produces collective entertainment.

India and Pakistan were brought together for meaningful dialogue on this occasion which is a phenomenal beginning towards peaceful negotiations to continue in the near future.

India and Pakistan brilliant performance will be cherished in the most favorite sport of the Indian sub-continent.

Best Wishes to both teams for a fantastic display of talent and demeanor.

Good Luck! To India in the World Cup Final.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

India and Pakistan – Peace Between Nuclear Neighbors Through WCC

March 29, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

India and Pakistan are scheduled to play against each other in the world cup cricket semi-final on
March 30, 2011 in India.

The expectations on both sides to clinch the title is overwhelming and the exciting event has created
an opportunity to bridge the gap between the two nuclear neighbors with the invitation from the Indian Prime Minister DR. Man Mohan Singh to the Pakistani counterpart Hon. Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani expected to attend the riveting one-day cricket match.

Meanwhile the two nations have come a long way in mending the fence with the acknowledgment of direct dialogue and persistent diplomacy to pave the path towards permanent peace and viable
solutions for myriad of political, economic and social challenges.

The peace summit in Thimpu, the capital in the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan was the icebreaker with significant consensus on economic relationship such as trade and transportation in addition to cultural exchange through sports, arts and entertainment.

Further developments on cooperation in Mumbai terror attack investigation and Pakistan Presidential pardon on the release of Indian prisoner held for cross-border violation are very encouraging.

The talks at various levels by both foreign ministries could come to fruition in the Prime Ministers’ personal meeting.

There is tremendous hope for peace to prevail in the Indian sub-continent with Pakistan and India providing the much-required assistance to other partners – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Nepal.

Fostering mutually beneficial relationship to promote political stability, social equality and economic prospects would strengthen regional growth with global impact.

Besides it would enable trust building quintessential for easing and eventually eliminating security threats in the conventional and nuclear fronts.

Defense expenditure divestments in education, infrastructure, science and technology and importantly protecting the natural environment could revolutionize individual achievements.

The unique paradigm could serve as the model for other territories viz. Africa, Latin America, Eastern Europe and Middle East.

In sharing the available resources and technological expertise the national deficiencies could be addressed effectively leading to coordinated efforts in alleviating common plight like poverty, disease and literacy problems.

On the broader aspect – India and Pakistan could potentially lead in nuclear disarmament especially in the face of the devastating nuclear disaster sadly experienced by Japan with pervasive effects.

Solidarity among nations within a sub-continent or a continent also provides protection during natural catastrophes with quick access to humanitarian aid due to proximity.

Any compassionate response to human tragedies always generate good-will transforming the bilateral and multilateral ties to extraordinary heights.

With respect to the cricket game – the millions of fans cheering for their home teams are poised to accept the results in harmony than acrimony confirming the inherent quest to improve relations.

India and Pakistan as former world cup champions have proved their formidability and more so evident in the current tournament.

It will be a sure delight to watch the cream of the crop performance on both sides to win the coveted trophy.

India and Pakistan have reached an impressive milestone in the favorite sport and striving for similar status in political negotiations would guarantee the desirable outcome.

Perseverance is one of the key elements to success.  Maintaining the momentum will sustain the incremental victory thus far.

Wishing India and Pakistan a fabulous game producing lots of fun for the cricket enthusiasts in the respective domain.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

World Cup Cricket 2011 Grand Tournament

February 19, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

The World Cup Cricket grand tournament begins on February 19, 2011.

Bangladesh hosted the spectacular opening ceremony with fireworks amid 25,000 cheering cricket fans gathered for an up close view of their favorite sports heroes.

First match between India and Bangladesh held today in Dhaka, Bangladesh resulted in the Indian side winning by 87 runs.

Heartfelt Congratulations! To team India on the brilliant start with more to follow until the end.

Cricket is religiously followed in the Indian sub-continent. The mega sports event is the most popular and in some quarters revered by the cricket enthusiasts fervently praying and desiring for their respective home team to clinch the world title.

The sport that was once considered the ‘Lords’ Game’ – a legacy from British empire is now played in every nook and corner of South East Asia especially in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Similarly in other parts of the world – West Indies, South Africa and Zimbabwe, notwithstanding western nations like England, Australia, New Zealand along with relatively new entrants – Ireland, Canada, Netherlands and Kenya have significant admirers and young cricketers competing to surpass the native legends’ records.

In India – the passion for the game is contagious with cricket lovers idolizing their favorite player and cricket season marks the beginning of sports carnival.

The current world cup competition involves 14 international teams playing 49 match games over 43 days in 14 different venues spread across India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

It is a one-day cricket match with limited overs set at 50 for each side unlike the test match that continues with 2 innings played by both teams over minimum of 3-4 days for conclusion.

Undoubtedly the world cup kicked off with a promising trail from the successful opening ceremony in Bangladesh to the recent victory for the Indian team.

There are other formidable challengers with similar aspirations and their performance will be a real treat to the spectators and sprawling cricket fans worldwide.

Since each team will strive to dominate the show – the audience are sure to be entertained to their heart content.

Cricket craze is pervasive and the multinational caliber pronounces the effects during the fixated moment of world cup championship.

Ethics and economics aspect – The stakes are high in the tremendously appealing sport not devoid of controversies and scandals related to match fixing leading to emerging talents’ abrupt end of the career.

Similarly the crime investigation on the sudden demise of a foreign coach not long ago caused a maelstrom within the prestigious sports circle.

Sports are enjoyable at any time. However maintaining discipline and prioritizing high moral conduct would not only enhance individual image but also promote a positive message to several million impressionable minds preparing to enter the enthralling sport as professionals.

There are no losers in a contest for the participants share the glory in sports spirit.

On that optimistic note – Wishing phenomenal success to every contestant in the World Cup Cricket 2011.

Best Wishes to all sports stars of the riveting one-day international cricket.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

U.S. China Relations and Global Impact

January 20, 2011

By Padmini Arhant

Hon. President Hu Jintao of China is currently on a state visit to the United States.

The head of the state arrival in the U.S. is pivotal to promote bilateral relationship on economic, political and strategic matter having a direct global impact.

Many issues have been brought to attention that requires mutual understanding and cooperation. The economic reality with United States as the largest consumer and China being the major manufacturer as well as creditor are inter-dependent to succeed in their respective ambitions.

China is the fastest growing economy with tremendous potential to be an effective global partner in resolving international crises.

Although the dialogue between the two nations in strengthening ties has been consistent in the past two years, the intentions are yet to be delivered in action on the domestic and international fronts.

The preliminary step towards fostering simultaneous growth is to review the activities and modify strategies beneficial to both economies with equal responsibility to contain the burgeoning economic crisis.

At present the huge anomalies in surplus and deficits between China and the United States is contentious and attributed to trade imbalance, fiscal and monetary policy variation besides incoherent business practices hindering investor confidence on economic returns.

China’s currency devaluation and other grievances such as intellectual property rights infringement, U.S. corporations’ access denial to fair market share are potent in the existing undercurrents that could be mitigated if not eliminated through acknowledgment and appropriate decisions.

Concurrently, the United States bears the burden to revive domestic economy centralized on job retention and creation along with national debt reduction to offset economic disparity.

While measuring economic status between China and the United States on per capita income – it is true that United States compares better than China due to the disproportionate population ratio.

However, the 13 percent poverty rate for the United States as a developed nation signifies the widening gap between the rich and poor in wealth distribution. This situation is largely contributed by politics undermining economics with no regard for national consequences.

Reiterating the earlier statement that balance of trade conversely enhancing economic prospects is critical in the competitive global environment.

With respect to strategic alliance on Iran and North Korea – China’s defiance in the U.N. Security Council against Iran and passivity on negotiations with Korea apparently frustrating the United States.

Similarly, the United States reaction via naval drill with South Korea on the Yellow Sea and response to Iranian civil nuclear program contrasting the Vietnam deal is perceived by China as provocative and U.S. double standards.

The facts confirm the power politics and self-interest on both sides escalating turmoil in the region.

Again the solution to stalemate in foreign policy agreements is the permanent membership expansion at the U.N. Security Council.

United States endorsement of India and assurance to Japan in this context qualifies as rhetoric given the status quo.

The Security Council extension representing each region detailed previously on many occasions could be effective in addressing various global problems.

Reluctance to accept pragmatic remedies reflects the desire for dominance in the constantly evolving economic and political dynamics.

Shifting focus on U.S and China – the recognition on travel and tourism, educational and cultural exchange is relevant and further commitments are commendable.

In humanitarian issues – U.S. is faced with Guantanamo Bay, mercenary operatives in the war zones like Iraq and Afghanistan, renditions, habeas corpus, military aggression instead of economic and social development, cited in coup d’état and political unrest in Latin America, Africa, Middle East…and notably the leading arms supplier in the world.

Notwithstanding environment abuse witnessed in oil spills and rescinding environment regulations to appease energy industry.

China’s impressive economic progress and environmental pursuit in the new millennium are overshadowed by the prevalent political system entailing:

Human rights violation against the people of China

Suppression of democracy

Imprisonment of Chinese dissidents

Failure to curb human trafficking and organ extortion in and from China.

Interference in foreign nations’ visitor protocol – example United States and India.

Music, Movies and Software piracy reported by entertainment and technology sector.

Arms supply to Africa.

Aiding ethnic cleansing in Sri Lanka.

Promoting tension between Pakistan and India on Kashmir.

Territorial dispute with India and incursion in the northeastern border concerning the Indian states Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh.

Refusal in acknowledgment of Taiwan’s sovereignty.

Forging defense and economic partnership with the dictatorial regime, the military Junta in Burma.

Declining support in the global financial regulations on tax havens used by corporations.

And

The illegal invasion and occupation of the independent nation – Tibet subjecting

Innocent men, women, children and the Buddhist Monks of Tibet to persecution.

Systemic eradication of Tibetan culture.

Desecration of the Tibetan shrines and Buddhist religion constituting sacrilegious in the highest order.

It is clear that both nations share guilt and glory in the contemporary era.

Their phenomenal accomplishments made possible by diverse resources most importantly the valuable human capital not adequately provided for and evident in immense hardships endured by the vast majority in the relatively affluent societies.

The industrialized and emerging economies could supplement one another in harmony rather than acrimony. Subsequently utilize the combined prosperity to uplift other developing nations seeking economic and political guidance.

Collective participation is vital to overcome global challenges like epidemic from communicable disease, natural disasters, environment protection, economic recession and international security.

It is in the best interests of the two illustrious nations to work together and reconcile differences to attain reciprocal economic gains.

Naturally the long lasting peace between the two militarily strong nuclear nations rests on building honest and trustworthy partnership now and in the future.

Best Wishes to U.S. China relation for a new beginning with hope and tranquility permeating across the globe.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

P.S. Please click on the hyperlinks for Featured Videos on this blogpost. Thank you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jXP4mVUfkxA

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8D4j99o6FXE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MhOkr4YQO0w

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQBEcg0DvqM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rLM-KBTuzUM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2COZeCrvpg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4TWXpFdd3os

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8aJGwh5RRk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btX28vIrh2w

COP 16/CMP 6 UN Climate Change Conference Cancun 2010

December 11, 2010

By Padmini Arhant

The two week conference from November 29 to December 10, 2010 on climate change strived to approach the global environmental challenge by adopting UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) and Kyoto treaty mandating the carbon emission reduction below 2 degrees Celsius or 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit in addition to COP15 Copenhagen proposals such as –

Industrialized nations $100 billion pledge by 2020 towards financial assistance to the poorer nations in combating environment disasters.

The Green Climate Fund for technological aid and forest preservation appear to have been recognized leading to a consensus among the negotiators.

Although the fund sources and management details have not been presented as yet, the preliminary step to provide economic relief to poor and developing nations is a positive measure.

The debate arising from the once contentious issue is – expediting funding and setting the eligibility criteria due to the demand from many nations seeking financial help under ‘vulnerable’ category that could potentially deprive the precarious recipients from qualifying for adequate benefits.

Hence it is essential to arrive at a conclusion on the specific content and fund allocation to the qualifiers in desperate situation as part of the post-Cancun agreement.

Further there is an urgent requirement to accelerate the transformation from fossil dependency to green energy economy.

Unfortunately the political will necessary to enforce the change is controlled by corporate investments denying the people in the rich and developing nations an opportunity to a clean energy economy and lead the less affluent nations achieve similar status.

No climate meetings are meaningful without addressing the catastrophic incidents from mining to off shore and shallow water oil exploration.

Wars and relentless military operations continue to have devastating impact on the environment in the economically struggling regions of the world. The use of deadly weapons and incessant bombings in retaliation is attributed to extreme environmental damage.

Pakistan for instance experienced the worst floods recently amid explosions and ongoing drone attacks exacerbating the flood victims’ plight. These are fundamental reasons to hold international forum to discuss never ending conflicts resulting in widespread destruction and loss of life.

Environment cannot be safe and secure without ending violence claiming innocent lives through prolonged artillery attacks and use of explosives.

Peace and healthy environment are inter-linked in the evolutionary process.

The Cancun summit emphasis on the Kyoto treaty renewal in 2012 is vital to realize the environmental goals.

Japan and Russia’s objection in this regard is related to the major carbon emitters’ viz. China and United States non-commitment to the Kyoto accord ratification.

Kyoto agreement is currently reported to have 37 signatories representing 27% of the carbon emission in the atmosphere. Unless the remaining pollution contributors unconditionally endorse the Kyoto Protocol and exemplify through actions, the climate talks would not be entirely purposeful.

Other members’ efforts and determination could easily be offset by those in violation of the environmental standards with no accountability for their dominant role in the negative impact.

During Copenhagen negotiations, the economic powers elected voluntary emission control rather than a universal policy and at Cancun the checks and balances to that effect is hopefully enacted for fair verifications.

While it is encouraging to witness the powerful nations’ acknowledgment on the individual obligation only the demonstration would confirm the facts.

The mandatory reporting scheduled every year in June could be more effective when an independent international committee comprising scientists, environment activists, economists and ethicists appointed to review the progress or the lack thereof by each nation.

It could also possibly eliminate mistrust and political influence in the monitoring and assessment of the vital environment regulation.

Considering the grim forecast on the ozone depletion and ocean rising it is imperative to sustain greenhouse gas emission below 1.5 degrees Celsius against 2 degrees Celsius or 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit and incrementally drop to pre-industrial level at 280 parts per million from the present 390 ppm.

Community awareness and involvement in basic programs such as tree planting, recycling and green job creation with eco-friendly products and services in the market evolving into a national environment protection plan are crucial in the immediate and long run.

Industrial wise, the recommendation for greenhouse gas levy on aviation and maritime transportation would not only generate revenue but also contain carbon and other gas emission.

United States clean energy legislation is predicted to be a foregone conclusion given the Republican majority in the House following the mid-term elections.

The scenario is no different from last year with the reversal and the climate bill was still regarded a tall order that precipitated COP 15 failure.

Washington gridlock is predominantly sponsored by special interests with their investments in both political parties. The elected representatives bear responsibility for their decisions in national and international issues.

It is incumbent upon United States to establish a track record as the leader of innovative green economy and environment bastion in the twenty first century.

Political blockade in passing climate bill is endangering self and the future generation survival.

Scientific data and prevalent weather patterns with 2010 declared the hottest year in a long time proves the relevance to reconcile terms with reality.

Ignoring the ramifications on the island nations and other inhabitants could eventually hurt the origin in the human manufactured greenhouse gas causing global warming.

There are no winners for there will be no survivors in the profit motivated environment degradation. With the escalating temperatures and melting glaciers the alternatives are conservation and preservation of natural resources.

Nevertheless, it is a refreshing start to gain assurance from China, United States, India, Brazil, EU…in accepting Cancun climate deal despite selective terms and conditions applied to suit the domestic agenda.

Mexico deserves credit for the exceptional organization of the global event and successful mediation between international delegates in arriving at mutual concurrence on some key elements in the climate matter.

Congratulations! To Ambassador Patricia Espinosa Cantellano, President of the COP16, President of the United States of Mexico Felipe Calderon, the Honorable delegation from 194 nations, NGO’s and every participant at the sixteenth United Nations Climate Change Conference in Cancun, Mexico for the solidarity and initiatives in reaching a preliminary agreement.

The transparency and inclusiveness reflected in the United Nations sixteenth conference is praiseworthy setting precedence for forthcoming summit in 2011 – Durban, South Africa.

Please Save the Planet – the only habitat for all.

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

« Previous PageNext Page »

PadminiArhant.com