CONTENTS Organisational Activities BJP Rallies at Pathanamthitta, Kottayam & Paravoor...... 6

Government's Achievements Fortnightly Magazine Under Ujjwala Scheme, free LPG connections to be provided... 8 Aadhaar downloads cross 40 crore mark...... 9 Editor Fast Tracking Expressways plan approved...... 10 Reforms initiated by Modi Govt. in Oil and Gas Exploration. 10 Prabhat Jha, MP Vaichariki Executive Editor Integral Humanism Revisited - P. Parameswaran...... 11

Dr. Shiv Shakti Bakshi Shradhanjali Balraj Madhok no more...... 13 Editorial Team BJP President’s Pravas Ram Prasad Tripathy Tamilnadu...... 14 Vikash Anand Articles Vajpayee’s Legacy on Modi’s Shoulders Creative Editor By Balbir Punj...... 16 Agusta exposé puts fourth estate’s credibility at stake Vikas Saini By Swapan Dasgupta...... 20 Miracle Growth Will Return : Subscription By Arvind Panagariya...... 25

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3 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 mRlhns;qfjes yksdk u dq;kZa deZ psnge~A ladjL; p drkZ L;keqigU;kfeek% çtk%AA „†AA If I cease to perform prescribed actions the inhabitants of all the worlds would be put into ruin and I would be cause of unvirtuous population and would destroy all these living entities. —(Bhagavadgita : Ch.-III, 24)

T “Usage of modern solid & liquid “The Congress & Communist both have W

waste management practices in ~~~ only one goal to grab power anyhow. E urban areas will also benefit the They have neither any ideology nor E adjoining rural areas.” ☯☯☯ differences in them.” -Narendra Modi -Amit Shah T ~~~ S Buddha Purnima : 21st May 2016 uddha Purnima during Vaishakha month Bis celebrated as birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha. Gautama Buddha whose childhood name was Siddhartha Gautama was a spiritual teacher on whose teachings Buddhism was founded. The time of Gautama Buddha’s birth and death is uncertain. However, most historians date his lifetime between 563-483 B.C. Most people consider Lumbini, Nepal as the birth place of Gautama Buddha. Buddha died at the age of 80 at Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh. For Buddhists, Bodh Gaya in Bihar is the most important pilgrimage site related to the life of Gautama Buddha. The other three important pilgrimage sites are Kushinagar, Lumbini, and Sarnath. It is believed that Gautama Buddha obtained enlightenment at Bodhagaya and he first taught the Dharma at Sarnath. It is believed that Gautama Buddha got birth, obtained Enlightenment and passed away on the same day. Buddha Purnima is also known as Buddha Jayanti and Buddha’s Birthday. Among Hindus in North India Buddha is considered as the 9th incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Now people celebrate Buddha Purnima with pomp and show by paying homage to Gautama Buddha. However, tradition ascribes to the Buddha himself instruction on how to pay him homage. He advised everyone not to cry over the disintegration of the physical body but to regard his teachings, because only the Dhamma truth is eternal and not subject to the law of change. He also stressed that the way to pay homage to him was not merely by offering flowers, incense, and lights, but by truly and sincerely striving to follow his teachings.

4 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 For Congress ‘family’ interest is more important than principle and ethics ecent debate in parliament on the Augusta Westland scam revealed how uncomfortable Congress is getting day by day with the progress of investigation Rin various scams during its regime. While it has been established beyond doubt that the kickback were paid in the Augusta deal the Congress tried to paint it as an assault on its leadership. It went to the extent of organizing a march in the name of democracy in its attempt to don the mantle of ‘victimhood’. Its real intention was exposed in the process when the posters of Robert Vadera were on display along with Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi. It is to be noted that while investigations against Vadera is moving forward, Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi are on bail in National Herald case. The Congress is trying to create pressure on the government in a bid to stall the investigations fearing that its top leadership might get caught in the net of investigating agencies. But the government has to respect the mandate of the people which has voted against the corruption and scams of Congress during UPA rule. It is still fresh in the memory of the people that Congress and corruption has become synonymous during UPA rule. The situation was so that not a single day passed when a scam was not exposed in the country. There were countless scams of different proportion among which 2G scam, Adarsh society scam, Coal scam, CWG scam, Augusta Westland scam are some of the major scams. Apart from this the kind of policy paralysis that afflicted the UPA government and inaction on major scams along with deliberately stalling the formation of SIT on black money even in the face of Supreme Court orders showed its true colours. The Congress not only lost credibility in the eyes of the people it also weakened the entire political establishments by making them to serve its political ends. Now that the investigating agencies are working in accordance with the rule book the Congress is afraid of getting further exposed and facing the law of the land. It is really shameful to see that while in Italy the Augusta scam was exposed and those paid bribes have been booked the government under UPA rule failed to take any serious step to nail the culprits. There are evidences that the investigations were stalled under one pretext or the other and in the words of Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar the ‘invisible hand was guiding action or inaction’ in probe cannot be denied. It remains a mystery as to why Congress could not act even when the scam was exposed in Italy and the courts in Italy proceeded against the culprits. How India has not even identified the people who were involved while Italy has already booked the culprits. India as a country needs to dispel the notion that it cannot act against high and mighty by taking stringent measures Editorial... against those involved in the cases of corruption. Congress has today become a party representing corruption and opportunistic politics in the country. While its Uttarakhand chief minister is seen openly involving in horse trading in a sting operation, its Himachal chief minister Veerbahdra Singh is facing probe and Kerala chief minister Omen Chandy is found involved in scam. It is fighting against Communists in Kerala while contesting elections in West Bengal in alliance with the Communists. It is to be noted that the Congress never hits street on any national issue but when its ‘family’ comes under the scanner the Congress is seen on the street in the name of democracy. It shows that it is now completely in the grip of dynasty politics and it considers serving the interests of ‘family’ more important than the politics based on principle and ethics. Such approach of the Congress leadership has made it a party of the past with no hope for future. Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 5 Organisational Activity

BJP Rallies at Pathanamthitta, Kottayam & Paravoor Congress has made corruption and the government synonymous to each other : Amit Shah JP National President He said the only goal of these difference between the two. Shri Amit Shah two parties is to gain power He said, what is this if not a Baddressed huge public anyhow, they have no vote bank politics, what is this rallies in Pathanamthitta, ideology and there is no if it’s not a cheating that LDF Kottayam and Paravoor in Kerala on 05 May 2016. He called the people of the state to rebuild a strong and developed Kerala under the ruling of BJP-led NDA government by rooting out the corrupt Congress- led UDF government from the state. BJP president said, the 2016 Assembly elections is very important for the LDF and UDF fighting and UDF are fighting together future of the people of Kerala together in West Bengal in West Bengal while just to and the state. He said, but they fight against show the people, they fight Congress-led UDF and each other in Kerala. against each other in Kerala. Communist party’s LDF What is this if not a vote Attacking fiercely on the government is ruling the state bank politics, what is Congress-led UDF since for 50 years but both this if it’s not a cheating? government in Kerala, the BJP governments have neither If one has to find President said that the done much for the corruption, then find it Congress has made development of Kerala nor to in Kerala, air, earth or corruption and the bring changes in the lives of water - there is no such government synonymous to the people of the state. places left where there each other. He said, He said, the LDF and is no corruption Corruption is everywhere in UDF, both have blocked the If there is a BJP Kerala. He said if one has to development of Kerala. Shri government in Kerala, find corruption, then find it Shah said that the people of there will be no in Kerala, air, earth or water Kerala never vote to choose discrimination or - there is no such places left one from these two, they vote injustice with anybody where there is no corruption. to oust one from power, the in the state Taking a dig at the other comes in power itself. Congress, he said that the

6 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 half of the state government people of Kerala that if the of Kerala.” The BJP President budget is lost to the scams in BJP comes in to the power in said that the Communists are Kerala. He said that the UPA Kerala, then there will be contesting on the name of a government at the Centre had violence in the state and 96-year old veteran done the series of scams. He communal harmony will be in Achuthanandan Ji but they said, Adarsh scam on land, danger. He said it is will not make VS the CM of submarine scam in water, 2G ridiculous. the state, instead, Mr. Vijayan & Agusta-Westland scam in He said, the BJP follow will be the face of the air and coal scam under the the principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Communist in Kerala. earth, Commonwealth scam in Sabka Vikas’, we are ruling in Shri Amit Shah said that games, i.e. there is no such 14 states and such an the BJP-led central places left where there is no untoward incident never took government under the corruption. Lashing out at the place anywhere, however in leadership of Shri Narendra then Defence Minister A. K. contrast to it, we blessed with Modi Ji has worked Antony during the UPA great affection from all section ceaselessly for the betterment government on of society. and social welfare of poor, AgustaWestland kickbacks, BJP President said the oppressed and he raised the question that at Communist Party is accusing underprivileged, and laid whose behest, the helicopter us for violence, but the truth many innovative projects for field trials conducted on is that many BJP workers a new change which are alleged company’s premise were killed brutally by the showing fruitful results now rather than in India, why the Left and both the LDF and whether it be Pradhan Mantri tender has been given to a UDF governments, both Jan-Dhan Yojana, Pradhan non-original manufacturer, remained silent spectator. He Mantri Jeevan Bima Yojana, the people of the country want called upon the workers that Jeevan Suraksha Bima Yojana, to know the truth. the sacrifice of our workers Pradhan Mantri Mudra Bank Attacking strongly on the would not get wested, a Yojana, Crop Insurance poor law and order in Kerala, developed Kerala will be scheme, Make in India, the BJP President said that rebuild on the foundation of Startup India or whether it the law and order situation sacrifices made by workers be Stand Up India. Shri Shah in the state under the and the BJP-led NDA will said our main priority is to Congress-led UDF form the government. bring an improvement in the government is worse. He said, The BJP President said, quality of life of the poor by a Dalit girl is raped and then the Congress and the serving through brutally murdered in the state Communist both have done development. but the Kerala government great discrimination and Shri Shah called upon the remains inactive and injustice with the people of party workers to gear up for emotionless, the CM keeps Kerala due to their vote bank a full majority BJP quiet, then who is responsible politics. He said the BJP do government in the state for a for the atrocities on Dalit not believe in the politics of developed and strong Kerala women in the state? partisanship like Left. where, there is no Shri Shah said that we He said, “I assure you that discrimination and injustice in have no hidden agenda, we if there is a BJP government the state. He appealed to the have just one agenda and that in Kerala, there will be no people of Kerala to give BJP is to uproot the corrupt LDF discrimination or injustice an opportunity with majority and UDF governments from with anybody in the state, the to serve the state to rebuild Kerala. He said, a confusion BJP is committed to the all- violence and corruption free is being dispersed among the round and equal development Kerala.

Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 7 Government's Achievements Under Ujjwala Scheme, free LPG connections to be provided to 5 crore BPL families

he Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, launched the Pradhan The scheme provides free Mantri Ujjwala Yojana at Ballia. The scheme aims to provide LPG connections to the poor cooking gas connections to five crore below-poverty-line T women of the nation. Under beneficiaries over the next three years. Noting that May 1st is observed as Labour Day, the Prime Minister the scheme of Pradhan said that in this Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, about century, the aim 8,000 crore rupees has been of all workers reserved to provide fifty across the world million LPG connections to should be to the poor family units. Each of unite the world. the beneficiary will receive Reiterating monetary support of that the Union about.1,600 rupees to get a Government’s connection of cooking gas. primary focus has been the welfare of the poor, the Prime Minister mentioned various Qualified family units will be steps for labour welfare taken by the Union Government over the last two discovered by consulting years. with the state governments He mentioned the Shram Suvidha Portal, and the Labour Identity as well as Union territories. Number given to Shramiks. The Prime Minister recalled that Ballia is the This strategy will be carried land of the revolutionary Mangal Pandey, and said that while the out for the following 3 years development of Eastern Uttar Pradesh has suffered for decades, continuously. connectivity is now being strengthened in the region. He said the Union Government is allocating tremendous resources for the development of Uttar Pradesh. He mentioned the rapid progress that has been made in rural electrification. He said the fruits of development must reach the eastern part of India, for us to gain strength in the fight against poverty. The Prime Minister emphasized that schemes must be designed keeping in mind the welfare of the poor, and not merely to derive electoral benefit. He said that the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana will benefit the poor, especially the women. PM launches e-boats and e-rickshaws in Varanasi After launching the LPG scheme in Ballia PM Shri Narendra Modi went to Varanasi to launch e- boats and e-rickshaws in his Lok Sabha constituency Varanasi on May 1. “Schemes that strengthen the people are important, not schemes that strengthen vote banks,” he said at Assi Ghat after the boat ride. The Prime Minister flew into Varanasi after launching a scheme in Ballia under which free LPG connections will be given to five crore poor women. While there, he had his visit should not be politically interpreted - indicating a speculation made with an eye at the 2017 assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh. He said the Centre had plans to allocate “tremendous resources” to develop Uttar Pradesh. “Fruits of development have to reach the eastern part of India and then we will gain strength in the fight against poverty,” he said.

8 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 Government's Achievements Aadhaar downloads cross 40 crore mark : UIDAI

Average downloads of electronic version of Aadhaar at 6 lakh per day

he number of people notification DBOD.AML.BC. Proof of Identity and downloading Aadhaar No. 100 /14.01.001/2013-14. Address. As Aadhaar is being Ton the Unique “Anyone who has increasingly used as a proof Identification Authority of misplaced his/her Aadhaar or of identity for availing India (UIDAI) website is on is yet to receive Aadhaar card various services, wider use of the rise with the number of through post, can easily downloaded version of average downloads per day download an Aadhaar after Aadhaar is expected. of Aadhaar at 6 lakh. As on providing certain details To download an Aadhaar date, Aadhaar downloads online. In case, a person does online, the person should have crossed 40 crore. The not remember the details, the have registered his/her reasons for popularity of Aadhaar can be downloaded mobile number at the time of download of Aadhaar and printed from the nearest enrolment as the system will through website can be authorized Aadhaar Kendra prompt the person to input a attributed to increased usage for a nominal fee of Rs.10,” One Time Pin to validate of Aadhaar as Proof of said Dr. Ajay Bhushan himself/herself, while trying Identity and also as Proof of Pandey, Director General & to download the Aadhaar. Address by service providers Mission Director, UIDAI. The electronic version can be and the ease with which the Central and State downloaded either from residents can download Governments have linked https://resident.uidai.net.in/ Aadhaar from UIDAI various social sector schemes/ home or by clicking on the website. projects to Aadhaar and have ‘Aadhaar Services’ link on The total numbers of notified Aadhaar as a valid http://www.uidai.gov.in. Aadhaar generated as on May 2, 2016 stand at 100.93 crore. The data in the electronic version of Aadhaar is the same as printed on the Development of Ramayana, Aadhaar letter. Hence, the Aadhaar downloaded from Buddhist and Sufi Circuits UIDAI’s website has the same validity as Aadhaar card For development of tourism infrastructure in the country, received by a resident the Ministry of Tourism has launched the Swadesh Darshan through post and therefore, scheme - Integrated Development of Theme-Based Tourist the downloaded Aadhaar is Circuits, in 2014-15. Under the scheme, thirteen thematic treated at par with a printed circuits have been identified for development, namely North- Aadhaar card received East India Circuit, Buddhist Circuit, Himalayan Circuit, through post. The Coastal Circuit, Krishna Circuit, Desert Circuit, Tribal Circuit, downloaded version of Eco Circuit, Wildlife Circuit, Rural Circuit, Spiritual Circuit, Aadhaar has also been notified Ramayana Circuit and Heritage Circuit. as a valid proof of identity Under Buddhist Circuit theme, Ministry has sanctioned and address by the Reserve the project “Construction of Cultural Centre at Bodhgaya, Bank of India, vide its Bihar” for Rs.33.17 crore in 2014-15.

Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 9 Government's Achievements Fast Tracking Expressways Reforms initiated by Modi Govt. plan approved in Oil and Gas Exploration overnment of India approved a plan The Minister of State (I/C) for Petroleum & on May 5 for constructing 1000 km of Natural Gas Shri Dharmendra Pradhan informed Expressways under NHDP Phase-VI the Rajya Sabha in a written that the Government Gat a cost of Rs. 16,680cr on DBFOT basis. The takes various policy and administrative initiatives main criteria for selection of Expressway from time to time to facilitate hydrocarbon corridors will be the traffic volume and it was exploration in the country. Some of the policy approved that the highest density corridor i.e. decisions taken by the Government in recent Vododara-Mumbai Corridor (400 km) was years to enhance exploration and production given top priority and considered for feasibility activities are as under: study. It was also decided that remaining 600 Government has approved Hydrocarbon and km will be selected out of the routes identified Exploration Licensing Policy (HELP) and same on the basis of traffic volume. The high density has been notified on 30th March 2016. This corridors approved under NHDP Phase-VI are (i) Vododara-Mumbai Corridor (400 km) in policy provides for a uniform licensing system Gujarat and Maharashtra, (ii) Delhi-Meerut (66 to explore and produce all hydrocarbons such km) on NH-58 in Delhi/UP, (iii) Bangalore- as oil, gas, coal bed methane, shale oil/gas, Chennai (334 km) on NH-4 in Karnataka/ etc. under a single licensing framework Policy Tamil Nadu, (iv) Delhi-Jaipur (261 Km) on NH- also provides many incentives such as reduced 8 in Delhi/Rajasthan, (v) Delhi-Chandigarh royalty rates for offshore blocks, marketing (249 km) on NH-1 and NH-22, (now changed & pricing freedom and easy to administer to Delhi-Ludhiana-Amritsar-Katra revenue sharing model. Expressway) in Delhi/Punjab/J&K, (vi) Marketing and Pricing freedom for new gas Kolkata-Dhanbad (277 km) on NH-2 in West production from Deepwater, Ultra Deepwater Bengal/Jharkhand and (vii) Delhi-Agra (200 and High Pressure-High Temperature areas km) on NH-2 in Delhi/UP. subject to certain conditions. Out of 66 Km length of Delhi-Meerut Discovered Small Fields Policy- 67 oil & gas Expressway, 30.63 Km length has already been fields which have been held by ONGC and awarded in 2 packages and contract agreement OIL for many years, but have not been is executed on 4.3.2016. Bid for one package of exploited, has been approved for bidding 19.284 Km length has been invited with Bid under this policy. Due Date of 9.5.2016. Feasibility study of Policy for grant of extension to the Production remaining length is under progress. Sharing Contracts of 28 Small and medium In addition to above, Government has sized discovered blocks. approved to take up one more expressway namely Eastern Peripheral expressway for a Policy Framework for relaxation, extensions length of 135 Km in 6 packages. The and clarifications at the development and construction on Eastern Peripheral expressway production stage under PSC regime for early has been started w.e.f 14.09.2015 (Appointed monetization of hydrocarbon discoveries: Dated) with construction period of 30 months. Government approved this policy on The progress of these Expressways is being 10.11.2014, and the same is being monitored closely by Ministry of Road implemented. Under this policy, about 40 Transport & Highways and NHAI has been pending cases have been resolved. asked for the time bound construction of these New Domestic Natural Gas price Guidelines, expressways; State Governments are being 2014: Under these guidelines, gas price has involved during land acquisition process of been linked to the market/ important hub these expressways. prices.

10 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 VAICHARIKI : PART - I Integral Humanism Revisited P. Parameswaran

Integral humanism is not a quick-fix solution for electoral success nor is it a convenient strategy for capturing power. It is not even a political philosophy devised to promote and support any political party. It is a comprehensive world-view which originated in India as a result of the profound insight of generations of wise men who are known as the ‘Rishis’. It covers every spectrum of human life and its foundations are eternally sound and always relevant. It is from that rich philosophy that the great Indian culture evolved. Any truly nationalist movement can benefit from this all embracing philosophy. It is inclusive of spiritual as well as material progress of mankind.

he current global monopoly for reshaping a and vision of life. Any paradigm which is new world order showcasing paradigm presupposes a T basically Western itself as the only successful vision of Reality which (American) is crumbling from paradigm for the whole inspires to reconstruct a world within due to the weakness humanity. But, the celebration order. Vision depends upon of its foundation and did not last long. The recent the level of consciousness in unsustainability. It is also collapse of American which the visionary functions. being attacked by external Economy, bursting like a The present chaotic, forces. The world is balloon played havoc, not conflictual, exploitative, desperately in quest of a only within America but also threatening scenario is a true different paradigm which is among the countries of the reflection of the level of both sustainable and fair to world, which had integrated consciousness at which the all. with the American economy leadership of the world During the last quarter of in different degrees. Fidel operates. They cannot do the previous century there Castro, the architect of a better. All the machineries, all were discussions about a distinct paradigm of sophisticated “Third Alternative”. Shri. development, has now instrumentations, all the Dathopanth Tengdiji, a candidly admitted that the economic and political profound thinker, wrote a Cuban model is a total failure. apparatus, and all the cultural book “ The Third Way”. That Countries of Europe - the and civilizational structures, was the time when there were erstwhile imperial masters, they have introduced are all two major paradigms claiming colonizing large parts of Asia the products of this leadership of the world- the and Africa, have miserably consciousness. To have an Capitalist and the Communist. fallen behind. alternative paradigm it is of Both were Western in origin World is in need of a new utmost importance that the though based on conflicting paradigm considering the level of consciousness on ideologies. But, the chaotic conditions engulfing which their conceptual Communist paradigm the globe. What we need is framework functions must collapsed in its own citadels, not an alternative paradigm, undergo corresponding leaving capitalism triumphant but a “True Paradigm” based changes. and USA, its citadel claimed on a globally relevant view The Western conceptual

Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 11 frame work, whether sufficiently seeped into the immediate winner. China is in capitalist or communist, is emotional dimension with the all likelihood to dominate the basically materialistic. The result that although there is world scene in the near future. changes they want to bring enough of discussions and But that is not going to be for about are at the material debate, they are not matched a long time. The world will level by re-arranging the by adequate operational not like to be under a resources, both human and agenda. When it comes to that dominating superpower natural, in such a way that an there is no unanimity of especially when it is dictatorial ‘ideal’ paradigm could be approach. Cancun conference and not democratic. The shaped . The concept of is indicative of this. Decisions outcome is, in all probability development and the concept are postponed and follow up to be in India’s favour. It is of human welfare in all its are not undertaken. only a matter of time. But aspects are measured in terms It is also accepted that the meanwhile, India has to equip of material parameters. crisis is the outcome of the herself to play the role Needs, comforts and luxuries aggressive western required and expected of her all indicate that varying civilisational paradigm, cultural and civilisational degrees of material mainly spearheaded by the genius. possessions. Man, for whose world’s lone superpower, the The really serious question sake all development USA. That much is conceded that India has to face is what programmes are aimed at even in the European model of civilization and what also, according to them, is a countries. The American fundamental values will India material being with the body model is basically and present before the world as the main substratum. This essentially materialistic and which is capable of providing is a highly partial and consumeristic. It has its roots a suitable alternative for the parochial view of Man. in the biblical command by present crisis. It is not only a Enjoyment and a materially the Lord that the Nature is matter of theoretical or satisfying supply of goods meant for exploitation by man ideological paradigm but a and services is what they aim for his comforts. The practical and workable at. In the whole process they communist model has not solution with a universal totally ignore that man is succeeded in evolving a appeal. That means it should much more than an advanced suitable solution for the ills be sustainable and inclusive, animal. The same is true with of capitalism, the main reason tolerant and equitable. Such a the Western vision about the being that it is equally model has to be evolved in reality. They see a materialistic. It is another all spheres of life so that the compartmentalized world version of Christianity turned world could appreciate it and with conflicting interests. upside down. It is only a draw appropriate and useful I reactionary fruit born out the parallels for their application There is a general root of capitalism. also. This will be the main job consensus across the world Asian continent is on the for India for at least the that humanity is facing a rise. But Asia is not one united coming generation. But the civilizational crisis. Many power nor has it one common crucial question is whether leading thinkers rank it as an civilization. There are two the dominant policy makers existential crisis, which if not major contestants emerging as is sufficiently or even vaguely immediately averted can even promising super powers, aware of this mighty spell doom for the human China and India. Among the challenges we are facing? species. But this awareness is two, China is ahead in many To continue... only at the rational or ways which compels world (Courtesy : Nationalism, Good Governance and Development : intellectual level. It has not powers to rank China as the Kamal Sandesh Special Issue)

12 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 Shradhanjali Former president of Bharatiya Jansangh Balraj Madhok no more

taunch nationalist and former president of Bharatiya Jansangh the earlier avatar of the present Bharatiya PM condoles the SJanata Party (BJP), Prof Balraj Madhok breathed his passing away of last on 02 May, 2016 at the age of 96. Shri Madhok was ill for the last few days and the end Shri Balraj Madhok The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has condoled the passing away of Shri Balraj Madhok. PM said, “Balraj Madhok ji’s ideological commitment was strong and clarity of thought immense. He was selflessly devoted to the nation and society. Had the good fortune of interacting with Balraj Madhok ji on many occasions. His demise is saddening. Condolences to his family. RIP”, the Prime Minister said. came around 9.00 am at his residence in Central Delhi’s BJP National President New Rajendra Nagar. Born on February 25, 1920, in Skardu (Baltistan) condoles the death of region of Kashmir (now in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan area), Shri Madhok had his education in Srinagar, the Shri Balraj Madhok Prince of Wales College in Jammu and the Dayanand Paying his Anglo-Vedic College (DAV College) in Lahore, graduating last respects to with B. A. Honours in History in 1940. Late Balraj He came in contact with Rashtriya Swayamsevak Madhok ji BJP Sangh (RSS) while he was studying at Lahore in 1938 and National became a Pracharak in 1942. President Shri He was sent to Jammu and Kashmir to start Sangh Amit Shah work there. said I was Prof. Balraj Madhok was very active in the saddened by Balraj Madhok’s contemporary Indian politics in the 1960s. He succeeded demise. His entire life was Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya as President of Bharatiya committed to nation & ideology. Jansangh following the murder of Pt. Upadhyaya. My condolences to his family.

Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 13 BJP President’s Pravas ‘Tamil Nadu has become a symbol of corruption instead of a place of entrepreneurship and industrialization’ BJP rally in Pattukottai, Tenkasi and Nagarcoil From Our Correspondent

hri Amit Shah addressed huge rallies in and electricity in Tamil Nadu is only due to Pattukottai, Tenkasi and Nagercoil, corruption. STamil Nadu on 04 May, 2016 and blamed BJP President said, the country has pickup the DMK, AIADMK and Congress for the the path of development very first time after plight of the Tamil Nadu and attacked them the formation of BJP-led NDA government fiercely. He also urged the people of the state under the leadership of Prime Minister, Shri to form a BJP-led government in the state for Narendra Modi and there is a new ray of the development of Tamil Nadu. hope among the people of the state. He said, The BJP president said, the people of Tamil we have to initiate such starts in Tamil Nadu Nadu have to take a decision in this 2016 also and for this, we have to form a BJP-led Assembly elections that whether they need of NDA government by changing the alternative a development oriented BJP-led NDA governments of the DMK and AIADMK. government or the DMK/AIADMK Shri Shah said that Tamil Nadu has become government of corruption and scandal? He a symbol of corruption instead of being place said that the DMK or the AIADMK - both of entrepreneurship, hard work and parties have exploited the people of Tamil industrialization. He said the DMK, AIADMK Nadu one-by-one and nurtured corruption and Congress - all three parties are bellyful while the people of the state have already sinked in corruption. rejected them outrightly. He said, the 2G, Airtel-Maxis scams are He said that the DMK and AIADMK connected directly to the DMK and the governments had done nothing for 50 years Congress, the face of Congress in Tamil Nadu, rather than corruption. He said that there is P. Chidambaram and his son Karthi no difference between the DMK and AIADMK, Chidambaram is already charged in the both are corrupt and worked to keep people disproportionate assets case and in many other of the state bereft of development. He said, corruption cases. He said, the Congress-led the problem of unemployment, drinking water UPA government has done scam of more than

14 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 Rs.12 lakh crore in its 10 years of regime - having death penalty in Sri Lanka and scams like 2G scam, Commonwealth scam, maintained the dignity of the state intact. Agusta-Westland scam, coal scam etc are just He said, during the flood in Tamil Nadu the glimpses of so many scams of UPA where the state government were sleeping, it government. was our Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, He said that AIADMK Supremo is also who himself stood for the proper organization involved in disproportionate assets case, liqure of the relief efforts in Chennai and immediate scam and many other scams. He said, we financial assistance of Rs.2,000 crore was given heard many types of scandals in the country to the state government to help affected but in Tamil Nadu, a scam of baby milk has people. been done by the ruling party leaders. Also Accusing the Jayalalithaa government, Shri Shah said that despite spending the money of improving infrastructure and public facilities, Cheque signed by Amma were distributed, not only it, the Tamil Nadu CM is also distributing rice at low cost to the people of the state while the central government is providing rice at the low cost to the state. He said, Tamil Nadu’s AIADMK government remains frigid in implementing public welfare schemes the DMK and AIADMK, both parties have of the central government like rural involved in scams of sand & mines worth electrification and use of LED bulbs, Prime more than Rs.2000 crore. Taking a dig at Minister Sadak Yojana, Crop Insurance Jayalalitha government of Tamil Nadu, Shri scheme, Soil health card scheme, social Shah said, when the AIADMK government security schemes and Mudra Yojana for the form in the state for five years, the people do self-reliance of poor etc. not ever know when the CM of the state will The BJP President said that the BJP be changed. government at the Centre has launched several The BJP President said that the people of schemes for the benefit of the health of poor. the state have seen the ruling of two parties He said, ‘UJJWALA’ yojana has been initiated and two families, this 2016 Assembly elections to give free gas cylinders to five crores poor is an opportunity to get the rid of it. families of the country by 2019 but these Shri Shah said there is not even a single schemes cannot be reached to the common allegation of corruption on BJP government man in the ruling of the DMK and AIADMK under the leadership of Prime Minister, Shri governments in Tamil Nadu. Narendra Modi in last two years. He said, we The BJP president said if we have to take have laid the foundation of a corruption-free the state to the top of the prosperity then we government in the country. need to change the trend of alternative Shri Shah said Modi government is government of DMK and AIADMK in the committed to the safety of fishermen of Tamil state. He said, if NDA government is formed Nadu. Shri Shah said, during the two years of in the state, then most of the problems of Modi government, not even a single Tamil Tamil Nadu will be resolved automatically. fishermen has been shot by Sri Lankan Navy. He appealed to the people of the state to He said that we ensured safe return of Tamil make a BJP coalition government in the state Nadu fishermen from Sri Lanka despite of for the development of Tamil Nadu.

Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 15 Vajpayee’s Legacy on Modi’s Shoulders By Balbir Punj fter Narasimha Rao Monetary Fund and others liberalised the Under the AB Vajpayee regime lenders. Aeconomy, Vajpayee from 1998, the market economy The transformation of the brought the first generation transformed the face of India. Indian economy from being of market reforms. Now, it is The telecom revolution of the supply-determined to Narendra Modi, another BJP Vajpayee regime put a mobile demand-driven was due to Prime Minister, who is phone in the hands of 300 the adoption of a market bringing in the second economy. No more was there generation of reforms million people. It also a waiting period for cars and While the media continues facilitated cheaper call rates scooters; the housing and to focus on aberrations like and affordable mobile phones. road construction industries the unfortunate death of Under this Government, the were drawing down rural Shaktimaan, the Uttarakhand Indian state got out of unemployment; shortage in Police horse, the big story of businesses like hotels, automobiles was eliminated. the Indian economy taking a enabling a surge not only in The automobile industry, U-turn, has been conveniently which welcomed several ignored. Meanwhile, Reserve new constructions but also foreign firms that set up Bank of India Governor renewed old ones. factories and distribution Raghuram Rajan’s remark ~~~~~~~☯☯☯~~~~~~~ agencies in India, become a that, in the land of the blind, Narasimha Rao and his non- big employer. the one-eyed man is king, has political economist Finance Under the AB Vajpayee underlined the reality that the Minister Manmohan Singh regime from 1998, the market Indian economy is recovering had the guts to take this economy transformed the face fast, and is robust in the midst decision, even as the of India. The telecom of a global downturn. Government was hanging by revolution of the Vajpayee However, behind this a thin thread of majority in regime put a mobile phone in emerging success story is a Parliament. the hands of 300 million tale that needs to be recalled. There is no doubt that the people. It also facilitated Some 25 years ago, when India switch from licence raj to a cheaper call rates and faced virtual bankruptcy, the market economy did much affordable mobile phones. Congress Government at the good, not only to the Indian Under this Government, the Centre took a bold step to economy but also to the Indian state got out of disband the Nehruvian model Government within a short businesses like hotels, control-and-command span of time. In 1991, we had enabling a surge not only in economy and opt for a free- foreign exchange reserves just new constructions but also market structure. about enough to finance renewed old ones. Was the decision imports for a fortnight and a A new programme of facilitated by the fact that a miniscule export earnings. In laying highways, expressways non-Gandhi family Congress just a year of market and rural roads also brought leader was the Prime Minister economy, this rose to a three- a large number of Indian and of India at that time? This month-reserve. India gained foreign construction firms question notwithstanding, no recognition at the global table into the limelight. Yet another one can fail to acknowledge and ended its reliance on aid employment creator was the that Prime Minister PV from the International low-cost private sector airline.

16 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 Now the middle-class traveler the public sector alone. reform, the disinvestment could afford air travel as All this represents the drive, the low fare competing competition between airlines built-in corruption, the false airlines, the proliferating cable brought down air ticket claims, and the one family TV channels, the $300 billion prices. The Vajpayee regime dominance that was the foreign exchange reserve, brought the 21st century to hallmark of Nehruvian new jobs in the IT sector, oil India. socialism. The Indian refining, trade, telecom, Under the socialist economy was then tourism and travel, ATM miasma, for instance, India pejoratively referred to as banking, e-governance, the was promised indigenous being under the spell of the construction boom etc. small cars crawling over its Hindu rate of growth of 2.5 Now, it has once again roads. Middle-level cars like to three per cent. fallen on to yet another BJP the SUVs were declared After the market economy Government, under Prime luxuries not suitable for was ushered in, the curse of a Minister Narendra Modi, to socialist India. And even the 2.5 per cent growth rate was further broadbase the market small car was to be built in lifted. By the time the BJP economy through a series of the public sector. government under Vajpayee reforms such as the national Awaiting the small car completed its term, the rate of market for agriculture from the public sector, the growth had climbed to six per products, the proposed GST, production of medium cars cent and then subsequently to extensive e-governance, the like the Ambassador and Fiat eight plus per cent. Digital India framework, the was severely restricted to NR Narayana Murthy Sagarmala port linkages, some 30,000 units a year. The who built up the iconic IT enervating the railways result was just like the chaos company Infosys reveals network with high speed that Mao’s communism what it meant to be under trains, exclusive freight created in China — 10 to 15 the Nehruvian socialism corridors that link major ports yearlong waiting lists and while building up an IT to the interiors, the revival of quotas for a poor quality car. services company. “I had to national highway-building, But even this poor quality car, come to Delhi 18 times to get support to start-ups and with no new innovation, a permit to import the type entrepreneurs, the big push created a thriving black market of computer I needed to meet to manufacturing through the with under-the-table sales as the needs of the contract for Make in India programme, the no other brand was available software I had obtained,” he support to job creators rather and quota cars could be said in a newspaper than job seekers, the banking obtained through influence by interview. The export-import revolution, the indigenous people who did not need it. control choke was weapons and military aircraft What happened to the dismantled under the market production with foreign small car finally is a reminder economy and with the swing participation, the energy of the corruption and that the Vajpayee solution with lower pollution, nepotism that characterised government gave the IT and so on. That the first and Congress regimes. In 1962, industry, India was earning the second phase of the JRD Tata proposed to over $50 billion by 2007. market thrust to the economy Jawaharlal Nehru that he will In the first quarter have both come from BJP-led build a small car within reach century after the market Governments is a historic of the Indian middle class. economy was introduced, the upturn for the country and a But the Prime Minister first real thrust came from the matter of pride for the party. rejected the offer as the official BJP-led Vajpayee (The writer is a renowned policy was to build the car in Government the telecom columnist)

Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 17 Debate in Parliament Invinsible hand was guiding the actions or inactions by CBI and ED : Manohar Parrikar In the parliament issue of Augusta Westland scam was debeted in which many members participated. We are publishing the synopsis of the speech of Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar for our esteemed readers :

ake strongest action General of India. The fact that helicopter to enter the fray. against takers of there was corruption in the In this way, options remained Tmoney, whoever it may matter is brought out in limited to a few range of be. A litany of omissions and extensive details in recent helicopters. commissions at various While the RFP was stages of the decision- issued to M/s making process indicate AgustaWestland, Italy, malafide and corrupt the response to RFP was actions and violations of received from M/s accepted norms of AgustaWestland procurement processes. International Ltd., UK, On 5th August, 1999, the which was not the entity Air Force proposed the to whom RFP was replacement of MI-8 VIP issued. The bid of M/s helicopters and a global AgustaWestland RPF was issued to eleven International Ltd., UK, vendors on 20th March, should have been 2002. The Technical rejected outrightly as it Evaluation Committee judgements of Milan High was not the agency to whom shortlisted three vendors viz., Court. The country wants to the RFP was issued, instead, MI- 172, EC-225 and EH-101. know as to who instigated, the relentless push in favour The flight evaluation of EH- who supported and who of AWIL continued. RFP has 101 could not be done as the benefitted from the categorically stated that FET helicopter was not certified corruption. We cannot let this would be carried out in India for an altitude of 6,000 meters. pass. The cabin height of 1.8 on ‘no cost no commitment’ The EH-101 helicopter was metres was made mandatory basis. This crucial aspect has later renamed as AW101 of in the revised Service Quality been given a go-by by Agusta Westland. After flight Requirements. The acceptance permitting trials in foreign evaluation, only EC-225 was of necessity for the lands. Even the trial was found suitable for acquisition. procurement of 12 helicopters conducted on representative From 2005 onwards, a at Rs.793 crores was accorded helicopters as at the time of series of measures were taken by the Defence Acquisition FET, the AgustaWestland by the then Government Council on 3rd January, 2006. helicopter was in which resulted in eventual These changes in SQRs developmental stage. Neither acquisition of AW helicopter. eliminated the EC-225 S-92 nor AW-101 fully These steps received stringent helicopter which had met the complied with SQR in the FET. 110 criticism by the Operational Requirements However, AW-101 was Comptroller and Auditor earlier and allowed AW-101 recommended for induction

18 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 in spite of emerging as a single 250.32 million given to M/s vendor by waiving off two After the present AWIL, only an amount of parameters, while no such Government took over, CBI Euro 199.62 million towards concession was granted to S- and Enforcement delivery of three helicopters, 92. The warranty of ‘three Directorate have been were recovered. In addition, years/900 hours whichever is vigorously pursuing all the Government also suffered earlier’ offered on the whole aspects of the investigation an estimated loss and helicopter by M/s AWIL was including the arrests and/or damages of Euro 398.21 accepted instead of RFP million. It is strange that the stipulation of ‘three years/900 extradition of three foreign CBI which registered an FIR hours whichever is later’. The nationals and the MoD had in the matter on 12th March, accepted principle in no option but to cancel the 2013, did not bother to procurement is that contract. If the then forward a copy of the FIR to deviations must be approved Government had acted in Enforcement Directorate for only under exceptional right earnest the entire nine months. The circumstances. Augusta advance payment could Enforcement Directorate did Westland gave a yearwise not act on the FIR in July, breakup of work from 2011 have been recovered. 2014. It appears that invinsible to 2014 to be executed by IDS hand was guiding the actions Infotech under this offset India, instead of taking action or inactions by CBI and ED. programme even though the on the company, adopted a After the present work has been completed well route of writing to the Government took over, CBI before the conclusion of the Ministry of External Affairs, and Enforcement Directorate contract in 2010. to the Embassy etc. and no have been vigorously Investigation in the matter explanation was asked from pursuing all aspects of the so far revealed involvement the company and the investigation including the of IDS InfoTech as a conduit operation of the said arrests and/or extradition of for transfer of bribe money. agreement continued. Even three foreign nationals and The benchmark 111 cost for the deliveries of three the MoD had no option but such helicopters was helicopters were accepted in to cancel the contract. If the unreasonably high than the December, 2012. Only on then Government had acted offered cost. It was six times receiving the reports of in right earnest the entire the estimated total project cost arrests of M/s. Finmeccanica advance payment could have which indicates that proper Chief, the Ministry of been recovered. There is an estimates was not prepared. Defence, on 12th February, agreement that the corrupt Ministry of Finance had 2013, asked the CBI to practices were involved in the declined the proposal. CNC conduct an inquiry into the procurement of the had provided no realistic matter. The operation of the AgustaWestland helicopters. basis for price negotiations. agreement was put on hold The Italian court judgement Final negotiated price was and payments stopped with also 112 unequivocally accepts quite high compared to the issuance of the first Show that the deal involved estimated cost. Even the CAG Cause Notice on 15.02.2013. corruption. Hence the main Report also found deviations As per the advice of the AG, action required is to detect of norms in such a purchase. the contract was cancelled on these corrupt practices. The The matter about corruption 1.1.2014 and all the guarantees CBI has already done a lot of started appearing in the / bonds were invoked. investigation. I cannot divulge media in Italy from February, However, against an the details of investigation for 2012. The Government of advance payment of Euro obvious reasons.

Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 19 Agusta exposé puts fourth estate’s credibility at stake By Swapan Dasgupta

here is a cynical Government. It also establishment — whose names suggestion that all established the role of are the subject of furious T Defence deals in India politically connected arms speculation — tweaked the involve a measure of financial agents and freelancers who bidding process to favour one impropriety and that the received a cut. This in turn company and received recent revelations of bribery fuelled speculation that financial rewards for this act and corruption in the aborted significant amounts of money of manipulation. AgustaWestland helicopter was further channelled into Compared to the Bofors deal, while titillating in itself, the pockets of political leaders. deal, there was, however, a indicates no real departure Mercifully, however, the new entity that emerged in from an established pattern. Bofors controversy did not tar the scrutiny of the There is undoubtedly some the reputation of the military AgustaWestland papers so far merit in this argument. In any in the same way as an earlier available. The court records case, since the 1980s, there is purchase of submarines for the indicate that the manufacturer a growing belief that both individuals in high places — The AgustaWestland controversy that is now under the scanner particularly in the military, in India following a string of convictions on bribery charges by bureaucracy and politics — an Italian court has, so far, prompted some initial conclusions. use the large sums expended It has established that the helicopter manufacturer wasn’t averse in Defence purchases to build to paying out bribes. It has also indicated that key decision- themselves a tiny nest egg. makers in the military establishment may have been Some of the illegal proceeds, compromised. There are also hints that some leading lights in it is also believed, find their the political establishment — whose names are the subject of way into the coffers of political furious speculation — tweaked the bidding process to favour parties. one company and received financial rewards for this act of The controversy over the manipulation. purchase of artillery guns from the Swedish company Indian Navy did. paid a middleman something Bofors was the first occasion The AgustaWestland in the region of Euro 6 million when the paper trail controversy that is now under for “media management”. establishing monetary the scanner in India following The sum set aside for inducements and kickbacks a string of convictions on managing the media or a came into the public domain. bribery charges by an Italian handful of relevant journalists The furore over the alleged court has, so far, prompted is very revealing. There was Rs 64 crore payback had a some initial conclusions. It has no hint of any media significant political fallout and established that the helicopter involvement in the Bofors was an important factor in the manufacturer wasn’t averse scandal and, indeed, it was defeat of Rajiv Gandhi in the to paying out bribes. It has the media that played a 1989 general election. also indicated that key significant role in unearthing Looking back, the Bofors decision-makers in the documents that established a controversy established the military establishment may large part of the hanky-panky. presence of middlemen who have been compromised. Today there is the bizarre received commission for the There are also hints that some spectacle of the media being purchases by the Indian leading lights in the political put in the dock for being

20 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 players in a sordid game suppress key information. public relations agencies and involving manipulation and Were they specially paid for individual journalists went bribery. their services? Did journalists beyond the call of duty and Part of the reason lies in misuse their professional were engaged in influencing the changed environment. In status to solicit business for a decisions relating to facets of the mid-1980s, the media had particular company? national security, there has to little or no role in the These are questions that be remedial action. The decision-making process. Its can no longer be evaded, not Government-approved Press task was basically that of a least in the context of the ‘paid card gives the media chronicler and, infrequently, news’ controversy that has privileged access into as an investigator. Today, eroded the credibility of the Government offices. If this is thanks to its phenomenal Fourth Estate. So far the being misused, it compromises multiplication and its professional associations that the entire profession. staggering outreach, the claim to safeguard media The response to the media has become a part of interests have maintained a AgustaWestland revelations the decision-making process. sullen silence on the doesn’t lie in governmental The media today has the AgustaWestland revelations, vigilance alone. The potential and the ability to pretending that it is a non- profession as a whole must create a favourable issue. Such ostrich-like engage in self-correction. environment or even a attitudes won’t suffice any (The writer is a member of Rajya vitiated atmosphere that can more. If there is evidence that Sabha and a renowned Columnist) make or break a big decision involving public money. Managing the media has Indian Government makes agreement with consequently become an Russia for setting up Kudankulam Units 5&6 important facet of marketing. It may well be argued that An Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) between there is nothing irregular in Government of India and Government of Russian Federation companies promoting their was signed in December 2008 for setting up units 3 to 6 at products. To some, even a Kudankulam, Tamil Nadu in technical cooperation with bout of generous hospitality Russian Federation. Discussions on the draft General — the odd lunches and Framework Agreement for setting up Units 5&6 (KKNPP dinners, not to mention the 5&6) are currently in progress. bottle of whisky on Diwali — The project is planned to be set up on technical cooperation is part of public relations. But basis with shared scope of work. The Indian private industry there is a difference between would be involved in supply of equipment, execution of the advocacy — a term preferred works contracts, providing services in Indian scope of work by Western-funded NGOs and localisation of components. who are good at getting their The Kudankulam site was found to have an optimum point of view across to the potential for locating six units each of 1000 MW by the Site media — and lobbying. The Selection Committee of the Government. The Government question that the media must accorded ‘in principle’ approval for setting up of Units 5&6 ask itself in view of the at Kudankulam in October 2009, in addition to Units 1&2 AgustaWestland revelations then under construction and Units 3&4 which were accorded is whether some journalists ‘in principle’ approval earlier. Regarding the cost of Units used their privileged access 5&6, discussions are in progress on the Techno-Commercial to the Defence Ministry to Offer submitted by the Russian side. The cost will emerge on influence decisions or even conclusion of the discussions.

Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 21 BJP rally in Kuttanad, Kasaragod (Kerala) Don’t just change regimes in Kerala, think of future : Narendra Modi rime Minister Shri drinking water”. ‘UDF, LDF doing Narendra Modi on 8 Asking the people adjustment politics’ PMay, 2016 asked the whether those who have Earlier in the day at a poll people of Kerala to think of failed to provide even basic rally at Kasaragod, PM Shri their future and not just things like drinking water Modi had taken a dig at the change regimes, as he should be elected or not, he two main political continued his tirade against said “both the Congress and combinations of Kerala, the ruling UDF and the Communists are in sync when saying both were “insulting” opposition LDF saying both it comes to indulging in the educated people of Kerala have failed to provide even corruption.” through their adjustment drinking water to politics. them in so many “A new model years. of politics has come Addressing up in Kerala. It is an his second election adjustment politics, rally in Kuttanad, politics of Shri Modi also compromise, accused the politics of Congress and the corruption and CPI (M) of politics of contract covering each to save each other,” other’s corruption he said. and said they “It is a contract would get to rule between UDF know that and LDF. For five governments have years you rule and to work for the for another five people only when years we will rule”. they are defeated. There was “These people have This is how the two Fronts a loud applause from the decided to taste power for have been returning to power crowd when the Prime five years in rotation. This in the State, Shri Modi said. Minister began his speech in way, they decided not to look Embarking on his second Malayalam. each other’s sins and open leg of electioneering for the Shri Modi said, “Kerala is their files (expose May 16, 2016 Kerala Assembly surrounded by water but still corruption),” he said. “You elections, Shri Narendra Modi there is no drinking water need to think if you just have took a swipe at the tie-up here. India will next year to change the government or between the Congress and the complete 70 years of her your future also,” Shri Modi CPI(M) in West Bengal and freedom. Both Congress and exhorted the crowd. said both these parties were Communists have ruled the This was his second “insulting” the educated state by turn (all these years) election rally in the Southern people of Kerala and they but they are not concerned State, which is all set to go should understand the about even providing for polls on May 16, 2016. adjustment politics of the two

22 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 parties. “We have a dream. By CPI(M) violence, Sadananda “Congress leaders in 2022, when India celebrates Master, whose legs were cut Kerala talk about the violence its 75th anniversary of off. “He did not make any unleashed by CPI(M) cadres independence, we want to mistake, his only mistake was in the State, but when they double the income of farmers attackers did not agree with go to West Bengal, they say in the country,” he said the victim’s ideology”, he only communists can save amidst cheers from the huge said. West Bengal”, he said. crowd. Referring to the recent “I want to ask the Attacking the CPI(M), Shri brutal rape and murder of a educated people of the State Modi said Kerala has been Dalit law student at if they would trust the parties “destroyed by politics of Perumbavoor and evacuation who speak two languages in violence” as he mentioned the of thousands of Indians two places at one time”, he murder of a BJP activist years including Malayali nurses asked. ago at Thalassery in Kannur from strife-torn areas abroad, the Prime Minister said the “If we have to secure Kerala’s future, then corruption Centre always feels pain if should be weeded out, politics of development instead something untoward of politics of violence should be embraced and the BJP incidents happens in Kerala. The Prime Minister said should be given a chance”, he said and recalled the when 102 persons had been contributions of Adi Sankara, Sri Narayana Guru, killed a few years ago in a Chattambi Swamigal and Ayyankali towards the social, stampede at the Lord cultural and educational fields of the State. Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala, “none came. No question of Prime Minister “This election is not about district. coming” at that time. who will form the government “One among those who “But within hours of the in Kerala, but who will save killed him (the BJP worker) is Puttingal temple tragedy in Kerala and who will give jobs now the Chief Ministerial Kollam recently, where 109 to Kerala’s youths and secure candidate of CPI(M) in persons had lost their lives, their future,” Shri Modi said. Kerala. Will Kerala’s future the Prime Minister of the Seeking votes for BJP- be safe in the hands of these country was here within NDA candidates, he people?” he said. hours to take stock of the highlighted the various “I want to tell the media situation,” he said. development and welfare in Delhi, in Kerala, which is “If we have to secure schemes launched by NDA known as God’s Own Kerala’s future, then government in the last two Country, these innocent corruption should be weeded years in office. people have been killed and out, politics of development “Government in Delhi is people of country were not instead of politics of violence working out steps to help aware of it,” he said, adding should be embraced and the arecanut and coconut farmers that people who were sitting BJP should be given a chance”, and we are aware of the crisis with “eyes closed” should be he said and recalled the faced by them”, he said. aware of the politics of contributions of Adi Sankara, The Prime Minister also violence in this part of the Sri Narayana Guru, Chattambi mentioned about the benefits country. Swamigal and Ayyankali of Agriculture Crop Insurance At the meeting, the Prime towards the social, cultural and Mudra Yojana introduced Minister also introduced to and educational fields of the by the NDA government. the crowd a victim of alleged State.

Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 23 Haryana Swaran Jayanti Panchayat Sammelan BJP committed to all-round development of villages : Amit Shah

JP president Shri Amit development. government had zero- Shah addressed a rally Shri Shah said the message tolerance approach to Bof thousands of newly- from today’s Panchayati Raj corruption. elected representatives of Sammelan is loud and clear, He promised Haryana Panchayati Raj institutions “Development of villages and villages would be developed (PRI) at Gohana town of corruption-free governance in on the pattern of Gujarat and Sonipat district, Haryana on Haryana”. Madhya Pradesh and asked 23 April, 2016. The BJP President Shri Amit Chief Minister Shri Manohar government sources said that Shah said, “The Centre is Lal Khatrar to send out delegations to the two states to assess the development process there. While referring to recent Jat agitation, Chief Minister Shri Manohar Lal Khattar cautioned people against those forces which were trying to divide them. He said: “We are united and would PRI representatives from 6,907 committed to double the remain that way. He urged villages participated in the income of the common man people to live with the spirit “Haryana Swaran Jayanti in villages by 2022. The of Haryana Ek Haryanvi Ek”. Panchayat Sammelan”. Narendra Modi government The Chief Minister said Addressing the gathering has realized that the country that all villages in Haryana Shri Shah praised people of can only be developed once would be linked through the Haryana for their hard work villages are developed,” at internet and each village and promised that every help the function. For the first time, would have its own website would be provided to them he said, the people had voted through which information to develop their villages and BJP to power in Haryana, about various development state on the pattern of Gujarat hoping a responsive works would be made and Madhya Pradesh. He government. available to people. To begin asked the Chief Minister to Shri Shah said, “The with, broadband facility send delegations to Gujarat people were fed up with the would be provided in 2,500 and Madhya Pradesh for spot governments of two families villages this year, he said. assessment of the in the state,” adding the BJP ...Continued on page 30

24 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 Miracle Growth Will Return : The Modi government has been battling a flawed inheritance in its first two years By Arvind Panagariya

ith the second few reforms to which this Taking advantage of anniversary of the performance can be revenues that the higher W government round attributed. growth had made available, the corner, assessments of its Indeed, there exists a UPA-I (rightly) expanded performance will begin soon. near-consensus among social expenditures but Such assessments need to take informed commentators that (wrongly) did little to sustain into account the baseline at the economic reform process the high growth so essential which this government began. that Prime Minister to continuing to grow Any progress must be judged Narasimha Rao (1991-96) had revenues at a fast pace. against this baseline. launched and Prime Minister To its credit, with rare In May 2004, when the Atal Bihari Vajpayee (1998- exceptions, UPA-I did not first National Democratic 2004) had accelerated introduce policies that would Alliance (NDA) government experienced a sudden stop positively damage growth lost the election, it handed to under UPA. prospects of the economy. the United Progressive Even the infrastructure Alliance (UPA) an economy (especially road) projects that that had grown 8.1% during In May 2004, when the had been contracted out under the preceding full year. first National NDA largely continued and The UPA ruled till May Democratic Alliance were completed on schedule. 2014, returning to NDA an (NDA) government lost Therefore, the potential economy that had grown just the election, it handed created by the Rao-Vajpayee 5% during its last full year reforms could actually (the new GDP series to the United translate into 8% plus growth. subsequently revised this Progressive Alliance That, however, changed growth rate to 6.9%). (UPA) an economy under UPA-II, which ruled Under UPA-I, which ruled that had grown 8.1% from 2009 to 2014. Denial of from 2004 to 2009, GDP clearances to major projects growth averaged 8.4%. While during the preceding on environmental or other this was an impressive full year. grounds became endemic. A performance, there is no The UPA ruled till May flurry of corruption charges satisfactory answer to the 2014, returning to NDA against officers with question what UPA-I did to reputation for unimpeachable make it happen. an economy that had integrity froze the top You can carefully scan grown just 5% during bureaucracy and hence the Budget speeches and other its last full year (the decision-making process. So relevant documents of UPA-I new GDP series deep was the freeze that a but, beyond continuation of definite change of course trade liberalisation and subsequently revised under the present trimming of the small-scale this growth rate to government has still not fully industries reservation list, 6.9%). restored the confidence of the you would find references to top officials.

Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 25 Counterproductive transpired: decline in the Estimate for 2015-16 turns out legislations such as those on growth rate to 4-5%, inflation to be 7.8%, a hair’s breadth retrospective taxation and at 10%, current account deficit away from the magical 8% land acquisition greatly at 4-5% and a rupee that had mark. undermined investor depreciated 13% during the Foreign investors who confidence. preceding three months. “It had been fleeing India in 2013 Lack of proper oversight is widely agreed the country have returned with foreign resulted in public sector banks is in its worst economic bind direct investment rising 24% lending vast sums of money since 1991,” concluded the in 2014-15 over that in 2013- to fund poorly conceived magazine. 14 and 40% during April- projects. Alongside, poorly Assertions by December 2015 over the performing loans were commentators that economic corresponding period in 2014. If certain sectors of the Under the present government, the consumer price economy exhibit weakness, it is because they had been in inflation has been below 5%, wholesale price inflation crisis at inheritance and negative and current account deficit in the 1-2% range. sector-specific adjustments While the global economy is struggling, growth rate in typically take longer than India has steadily climbed up from 6.9% in 2013-14 to those relating to the overall economy. 7.2% in 2014-15 and 7.6% (Advance Estimate) in 2015- It may be recalled that the 16. The fourth quarter Advance Estimate for 2015-16 early reforms under the Rao turns out to be 7.8%, a hair’s breadth away from the government had stabilised the magical 8% mark. Foreign investors who had been exchange rate, inflation and current account within two fleeing India in 2013 have returned with foreign direct years and returned the investment rising 24% in 2014-15 over that in 2013-14 aggregate growth rate to its and 40% during April-December 2015 over the pre-crisis levels. But a sharper corresponding period in 2014. break in the growth rate came only in 2003-04, after the economy had time to adjust routinely permitted to conditions today are no more fully to the Rao- “restructure”. different from when the UPA- Vajpayee reforms. Indeed, a Budgetary expenditures II departed bear little common refrain of many were allowed to expand resemblance to the reality. reform critics in the early without regard to revenues, Under the present 2000s was that the reforms leading to large fiscal government, the consumer had not led to a significant deficits. price inflation has been below shift in the growth rate. The result was that an 5%, wholesale price inflation Keeping this experience in economy, which had seemed negative and current account mind, make no mistake about unstoppable and had grown deficit in the 1-2% range. what is to come. Much change at the average rate of 8.1% While the global economy in policy has taken place since during the first three years of is struggling, growth rate in May 2014 and the miracle- UPA-II rule, descended into India has steadily climbed up level annual growth of 8.3% what appeared to be a crisis. from 6.9% in 2013-14 to 7.2% that India saw from 2003-04 An Economist story (August in 2014-15 and 7.6% (Advance to 2011-12 is poised to 24, 2013) gave a chilling Estimate) in 2015-16. The return. account of what had fourth quarter Advance (The writer is CEO, NITI Ayog)

26 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana : 2,508 cities selected under scheme for affordable housing

s many as 2,508 cities would conclude in 2022. implementing a scheme in 26 states have been The target beneficiaries of namely ‘Shelter for Urban Aselected under the scheme would be poor Homeless’ as a component of ‘Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana’ and people living under EWS Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana for providing affordable and LIG categories in urban – National Urban Livelihoods houses to the urban poor, the establishments of the Mission for providing Lok Sabha was informed on country. permanent shelters with basic May 4. Replying another facilities to urban homeless. As on April 25, 2016, a question, Naidu said it is the As per the information total of 2,508 cities of 26 states primary responsibility of the received from the states and have been identified as state governments to provide UTs, a total of 770 shelters selected for Pradhan Mantri shelter for the urban homeless have been sanctioned by Awas Yojana-Housing for all people. states and UTs with a capacity (Urban) Mission,” Urban In order to complement of about 38,770 inmates. Out Development Minister M and supplement the efforts of of this, 270 shelters with a Venkaiah Naidu said during the state and UTs, the total capacity of about 11,900 Question Hour. Ministry of Housing and inmates are operational, he He said as per the scheme Urban Poverty Alleviation is said. guidelines, the houses under the PMAY (U) mission should be designed and constructed to meet the requirement of Smart Grid Projects structural safety against earthquakes, flood, cyclone, Government of India (GOI) has launched National landslide etc. conforming to Smart Grid Mission (NSGM), to plan and monitor the National Building Code implementation of policies and programmes related to and other relevant Bureau of Smart Grid activities in India. This was stated by Shri Indian Standards Codes. Piyush Goyal, Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal & The mission also includes New and Renewable Energy in a written reply to a question a technology sub-mission to in the Rajya Sabha on 2 May, 2016. facilitate state technologies for The Minister further stated that an expenditure of Rs. adoption of layout designs 21.73 crore has been incurred for development of four and building plans suitable for Smart Grid pilot projects and one Smart City Pilot project various geo-climatic zones during 2015-16. NSGM envisages implementation of Smart and to deploy disaster Grid projects in the country to make Indian Power resistant and environment infrastructure cost effective, responsive, reliable and self friendly technologies. healing. Two smart grid projects for Amravati and The scheme comes with Chandigarh have been approved under NSGM, at a cost of an aim of constructing more Rs 118.63 crore with 30% funding from GoI under NSGM. than two crore houses across The Budgetary support for NSGM activities for the Financial the nation within a span of Year 2016-17 is Rs.30 crore, the Minister added. seven years. The scheme, which was started in 2015,

Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 27 General Secretary’s Report : Part-4 Towards Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat…

In the National Executive meeting held in New Delhi on 19-20 March 2016, General Secretary’s report was presented by BJP National General Secretary (Organization) Shri Ramlal detailing the journey of the party in last three years. The report covered the period between 23 January 2013 to 24 January 2016. It is to be noted that Shri Rajnath Singh was elected as BJP National President on 23 January 2016 and after he became the Union Home Minister, Shri Amit Shah became the National President on 09 July 2014. The period saw BJP getting massive victory in Lok Sabha elections under the leadership of Shri Narendra Modi. Apart from winning many state assembly elections BJP also become the largest political party in the world. It was a momentous journey for the party as it received huge support from the people and got the opportunity to play a historic role in shaping the future of India. We are publishing the full text of the report in a series for our esteemed readers:

Prashikshan Maha Abhiyan Departments • Many efforts were made for expansion 1. Good Governance, Central and State and strengthening of the organisation and Government programs co-ordination new dimensions provided to the training 2. Policy Research programme being run in traditional style. 3. Media • New records created in training 4. Media Relations programme for workers/office bearers at 5. Training zonal level. The participation in the Maha 6. Political Feedback and Response Abhiyan this year has crossed 7,76,067 and 7. National programs and Meetings the Abhiyan is still in progress. It is yet to 8. Documentation and Library be completed in many more states. 9. Sahyog and Disaster relief Services • The party literature has been made 10. Presidential Office, Tours & Programs available in various regional languages for 11. Publicity Literature Prashikshan Maha Abhiyan 12. Coordination of Trusts Different Departments and Prakalps of 13. Election Management the party reconstituted 14. Election Commission For the effective conduct of party 15. Legal Affairs programmes at various levels different 16. Party Journals and Publication Departments and Prakalps were reconstituted 17. IT, Website and Social Media Management at national, State and district levels and their 18. Foreign Affairs activities expanded. In this direction different 19. Life Time Membership Fund activities were reconstituted in 19 Departments Rashtriya Prakalp and 10 Prakalps were formed. 1. District Party office construction

28 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 committee headquarters on January 18, 19 and 20 over 2. Office mordenisation committee the incidents in JNU and Hyderabad 3. Construction of Library Universities. 4. Construction of E-Library Swacch Bharat Abhiyaan: For 10 days 5. Swachhata Abhiyan Swacch Bharat Abhiyaan was organised in all 6. Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao the States of the country. A special programme 7. Namami Gange was also launched to end the curse of manual 8. National Membership Drive scavenging from every part of the country. 9. National Maha Sampark Abhiyan Mudra Yojna: So far loan amounting to 10. National Training Programme Rs. 99,468 crore to 2.7 beneficiaries were Organisational programme and public advanced for promoting self-employment. service work: Party launched a special programme to help Because of recurring elections most of the small workers. programmes have remained election centric. International Yoga Day: On June 15, 2015 Yet, some prominent programmes are as the whole world was swept by the Yoga spirit. under:- The main function was held at Rajpath in New Jankalyan Parva: In celebration of the Delhi in which Prime Minister Shri Narendra completion of one year of NDA government Modi and top yoga gurus participated. 50,000 led by Shri Narendra Modi on May 26, 2015 at men and women took part in the event. 206 places in 35 States of the country 4,82,170 Welfare Programmes for Poor: A one-day people participated in organizing press training workshop on the Role of MPs in Effective conferences, exhibitions and public meetings. Implementation of poverty alleviation At most places the programmes were very programmes was organised on April 19, 2015 in impressive. At Deendayal Dham, Mathura (UP) which useful tips were given to MPs to extend the public meeting addressed by Prime Minister this programme in their areas. Shri Narendra Modi proved to be Special programme in organizationally and unprecedented which was attended by more electorally weak States for greater success: A than two lakh people. Central minister was specially put in charge to Raksha Bandhan (Insurance Parva): As a strengthen the party organisation to meet the part of their zeal to promote women protection challenges of elections in the States of Assam, BJP karyakartas all over the country celebrated West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Raksha Bandhan in which Jandhan accounts of Telangana, Tamilnadu and Kerala. mothers and sisters were opened and the North-Eastern States: A direct common man got insurance cover at just Rs. 12 communication was established with the and Rs. 330. Karyakartas in every district in all the States 31 October, 2015: In celebration of birth in North-East from April 16 to 28, 2015 and anniversary of Lauh Purush Sardar Ballabh suitable programmes for strengthening the Bhai Patel programmes like National Unity party were framed. Run, garlanding of Patel statues, symposiums, Sahyog: To meet party Karyakartas and seminars, were organised on the day. concerning matters connected with the Central Public Contact Programme by MPs: Each MP government a Union Minister is available from and minister stayed for as long as 30 hours in 2 3 to 5 PM every day in the Party headquarters parliamentary constituencies and organised public at 11, Ashok Road, New Delhi. discussions to make the achievements of the Good Governance (Sushasan) Day Central government reach people in every nook (December 25): On this day programmes were and corner in the country. organised in every district and mandal in all Jan Swabhiman Abhiyaan: Programmes the 36 States of the country to publicise the were organised at all State and district achievements of the Modi government and in

Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016 29 States where BJP is in power. exploited, afflicted people and to accelerate the Agitational programmes: Agitations and process of employment generation. The public meetings were organised against prominent public welfare schemes launched by scandals, corruption and lawlessness in the the Central government during the last 20 States of Kerala, West Bengal, Uttarakhand, months are as under:- Telangana, Tamilnadu, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, • Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojna Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka and Assam. • Pradhan Mantri Jan-dhan Yojna Hundreds of workers were injured and • Start-Up, Stand-Up India arrested. • PM Kaushal Vikash Yojna National Executive Meeting: A meeting • Make in India of the National Executive was held at • Digital India Banglruru (Karnataka) on April 3 and 4, 2015 • Beti Bachao - Beti Padhao in which "Beti Bachao - Beti Padhao" • Namami Gange Abhiyan programme was adopted and it was resolved • JAM - Jandhan-Aadhaar-Mobile to do away the curse of manual scavenging • UDAY - Ujjwal Discom Assurance Yojna from all over the country. Workers all over • Kisan Crop Insurance Scheme the country have vigorously involved • Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojna themselves to make these programmes a • Issue of Agriculture Soil Health Card success. It is expected that the curse of manual • Launch of Shramev Jayte Yoja for labour scavenging will be eradicated by the end of and grant of minimum pension of Rs. 1000 2016. • Yog Divas (International Yoga Day on June At the Governance level: 21) Under the leadership of Hon'ble Prime • Sukanya Smridhi Khata Yojna Minister Shri Narendra Modi the BJP-led NDA • Regular address by PM on radio (MAN government is committed to the welfare of KI BAAT) village, poor, army men and farmers. Our • Announcement of establishment of 100 relations with our neighbouring and other smart cities countries have strengthened on humanitarian • 'Per drop, more crop' scheme. grounds. This government has continuously To continue... been on its toes to provide justice to the Dalits,

...Continued from page 24

Shri Khattar listed out schemes for villages. “The government has made a budgetary allocation of more than Rs 88,000 crore for rural development this year. It is 28 per cent more than last year,” he said. He further said that under the social audit system, 11-member committees will be formed in villages to monitor, plan and execute development works. “The target is to make every household free from kerosene by providing them with LPG connections,” he said, adding every family in villages would have concrete houses by 2022. Union Rural Development Minister Shri Birender Singh announced that around Rs 2 lakh crore under the rural development grant and like amount under the MENREGA would be provided to gram panchayats to give momentum to the Gram Uday Se Bharat Uday Abhiyan. A booklet titled ‘Swaran Jayanti Varsh 2016-17’ was released during the programme. It highlighted the achievements of the state government.

30 Kamal Sandesh May 16-31, 2016