'Aggressive Action' Follows Sexual Misconduct Charges

By Karen Parrish
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, June 28, 2012 - The Air Force has charged six basic training instructors with a range of alleged sexual misconduct offenses involving trainees and is investigating similar allegations against six other instructors, the senior officer in charge of Air Force training said today.

Gen. Edward Rice Jr., commander of Air Education and Training Command, told Pentagon reporters all of the instructors had worked training newly recruited airmen at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. All of the instructors charged or under investigation are men, and all 31 of the potentially victimized recruits are women, the general said. None of the instructors is still in contact with trainees, he added.

It's important to note, Rice said, that most of the men are still under investigation or in the military trial process, and all are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

"We are leaving no stone unturned. I'm not minimizing this investigation; in fact I'm being as aggressive as I can. And we won't stop ... [until] we've done as thorough a job as we possibly can," he said.

Rice said he was "extremely disappointed ... that this would happen in an environment that we very much want to be a safe and secure environment for any young person who comes in."

The general said the investigation suggests the misconduct dates back to fall of 2009, and allegations surfaced between June and November of 2011. Some allegations involve relations between instructors and trainees that occurred after the trainees had completed basic training and were no longer under the instructors' direct supervision, he noted.

Whether the alleged incidents happened while trainees were in basic training or in the later technical training phase, Rice said, "personal relationships of any kind between trainees and instructors are strictly prohibited by our regulations and our instructions."

Rice said while all unresolved allegations are under thorough legal investigation, he also has appointed Air Force Maj. Gen. Margaret H. Woodward to conduct a parallel review of AETC's response to the charges and to recommend possible further actions.

Woodward is not assigned to the training command, Rice noted. She is the acting director of operational planning, policy and strategy for the Air Force's deputy chief of staff for operations, plans and requirements, according to her official biography.

"I felt that it was important to get not just an internal look at this, but also an external look," he said. "I believe it's possible for us not to see things because we've been so close to it over the past year. This is an extra step to see if there's anything that we've missed."

Rice said he has put several measures in place to safeguard and educate trainees. All trainees reporting to Lackland now receive briefings within their first 72 hours on base from the training group commander, a legal representative, a sexual assault coordinator and a chaplain, he said.

The briefings explain their rights and responsibilities to report misconduct, the general said.

Rice added trainees have daily access to a number of comment boxes on the base they can use, either by name or anonymously, to register concerns.

"The training group commander reads every urgent [comment] sheet from a trainee within 24 hours ... and any allegation of sexual misconduct results in immediate action," he said.

Any instructor who is the subject of an allegation is suspended from duty and forbidden contact with trainees pending investigation, Rice added.

Rice said the command took the "nearly unprecedented" step of suspending training for a day to survey all recruits then in training. His staff also has surveyed former trainees who were in basic training during past instances of alleged misconduct, he added.

His staff has worked to contact any trainee who has reported instructor abuse to "offer them the fullest array of support that we can," the general said.

The general noted 98 to 99 percent of all trainees surveyed rated their training experience as positive. Lackland trains about 35,000 new airmen –- 22 percent of whom are women -- every year in an eight-and-a-half-week basic training program that begins a new class weekly, he said. Of 500 training instructors, 11 percent are women, Rice added.

"The vast majority of these [military training instructors] are great Americans who live up to the high standards we demand of those who are entrusted with the critically important and sensitive mission of turning ordinary citizens into airmen," the general said.

The screening process for instructor selection is rigorous, involving a thorough records review and both written and interview-based psychological evaluations, he said. Rice added one of the things he is considering is whether to make that selection process even more rigorous.

"The best line of defense is for the training instructors, in fact, to police themselves," he said. The general noted that all but one of the misconduct allegations came from instructors stepping forward to report information they had overheard from fellow trainers.

The first instructor sexual misconduct case involved Staff Sgt. Luis Walker. A trainee accused Walker in June 2011 of sexually assaulting her, according to Air Force reports.

Walker was relieved of duty and will appear in court July 16 to face a general court-martial on 28 charges, according to Air Force news releases. Charges include rape, adultery, obstruction of justice, attempted aggravated sexual contact, multiple counts of aggravated sexual assault, violating a training group instruction and violating a lawful order regarding unprofessional relationships with trainees.

Since Walker's alleged crimes and misconduct became public, the Air Force has begun investigating 11 other basic military training instructors for alleged violations involving trainees in basic or technical training.

One former instructor, then-Staff Sgt. Peter Vega-Maldonado, pleaded guilty earlier this month to charges of an improper relationship with a trainee and violation of a no-contact order. He was sentenced to 90 days confinement, forfeiture of $500 pay per month for four months, 30 days hard labor and reduction in rank to airman. In testimony against other accused instructors and after receiving testimonial immunity, Vega-Maldonado admitted to improper sexual conduct with several other women.

Nine of the 12 instructors alleged to have engaged in improper relationships with trainees came from one unit, Rice said: the 331st Training Squadron. The officer who commanded that unit from 2009 to earlier this month was relieved of command, Rice said.

Air Force officials announced special court-martial charges yesterday against two of the instructors, Master Sgt. Jamey Crawford and Tech. Sgt. Christopher Smith. Rice told reporters today both are assigned to the 331st Training Squadron.

Crawford's charges allege he wrongfully conducted a sexual relationship with a trainee, wrongfully provided alcohol to and consumed alcohol with the trainee, and committed adultery.

Smith allegedly wrongfully sought to develop and conduct a personal and intimate relationship with a trainee, wrongfully made sexual advances toward a trainee and wrongfully carried on a personal social relationship with a second trainee. Smith also is charged with obstruction of justice.

Two others instructors, Staff Sgt. Craig LeBlanc and Staff Sgt. Kwinton Estacio, faced an Article 32 hearing June 1. An Article 32 hearing is similar to a preliminary hearing in civilian law. No case can proceed to a general court-martial unless a command first conducts an Article 32 investigation.

Biographies:
Air Force Gen. Edward Rice Jr.
Maj. Gen. Margaret H. Woodward
Related Sites:
Air Education and Training Command 

Togolese-born Army NCO Lives His Dream

By Army Sgt. 1st Class Eric Pahon 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade KHOWST PROVINCE, Afghanistan, June 26, 2012 - Army Sgt. Koku Adzoble joined the U.S. Army to make a better life for himself. Army Sgt. Koku Adzoble, top, inventories tools with Army Sgt. 1st Class James Crews on Forward Operating Base Salerno, Afghanistan, June 14, 2012. U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Eric Pahon Adzoble, who claims Bronx, N.Y., as his stateside home. "When I came here, I was working in a store, and it wasn't good for me. So, I joined the Army. I saw a way to make a difference in my life, and this is a much better place. That's why I'm staying in." Adzoble emigrated to the U.S. in 2007 from Togo under the U.S. State Department's visa lottery, which makes up to 55,000 visas available each year to countries with underrepresented populations in the U.S. The program requires applicants to either have a high school education, or two years' work experience. Adzoble won one of 3,777 visas offered in Togo. He graduated with a degree in physics from the University of Lomé in 2006 and was teaching high school until he moved to the United States a year later. "I had a chance," Adzoble said. "Some countries don't get that chance [to award U.S. visas], so you play every year you're eligible, and if you win, you get to come to the United States and get a visa. I was very lucky." Adzoble was working as a stock clerk in a New York City department store when a co-worker suggested that he join the U.S. Army. "I was working for this one guy, and he joined the Army," Adzoble said. "He left, and when he came back to visit, I listened to what he told me [about the Army]. What he was doing was better than what I had going at the time, so I decided to follow him. He's the reason I joined." In basic training, Adzoble faced difficulty understanding English. He said his drill sergeant wanted to hold him back for additional English language training, but the company commander let him stay on and work toward graduation. "French is our official language," Adzoble said. "We went to school and took English as a second language, but no one really takes that seriously. We have two or three hours of English class, but no one pays that much attention to it so they don't speak English that well." Adzoble improved his English skills and graduated with honors as an automated logistical specialist at Fort Lee, Va. Following a two-year tour in Korea, Adzoble was stationed with Task Force Wolfpack, 82nd Combat Aviation Brigade, Fort Bragg, N.C., in December 2010. Eleven months later he deployed here to Forward Operating Base Salerno. Army Sgt. 1st Class James Crews, Adzoble's supervisor,says an unfailingly-positive attitude has allowed him to become a model soldier. "He's a hard worker," said Crews. "He had some great leadership before he came to me in 2010. He's one of those guys who goes straight to work when you ask him to do something. He doesn't ask why; he just does it." Adzoble is a supply clerk at the base's motor pool, keeping track of the parts inventory and monitoring deliveries. His job is critical to keeping the unit's vehicles on the road, requiring attention to detail and the ability to keep track of dozens of components. "He's an encyclopedia," Crews said of Adzoble. "He's that type of guy who'll pretty much look over something once or twice and he's got it memorized. It comes in very useful. When I'm trying to find a part, I ask him, and he knows what I'm talking about and where to find it right away." Adzoble has a wife and a daughter in West Africa. His daughter, he said, is too young to leave Africa right now, but he hopes to establish a permanent home in the United States so his family can join him in a few years. First, he wants to explore the country and find a place he'd like his family to settle. "I don't want to bring them, then, the next day we have to move again," Adzoble said. "It's not like I don't enjoy Fort Bragg, but I want to see more of the United States and see if there's somewhere I might like even more." Adzoble hopes to earn a physics degree in the United States. He re-enlisted for three more years of Army service, and he's looking to earn a promotion before he leaves Afghanistan. "He got pinned E-5 [sergeant] in December, and we're probably going to send him to the E-6 [staff sergeant] promotion board before we leave Afghanistan," Crews said. "He's just that type of worker and has that type of leadership style." As for his daughter, Adzoble has no plans to push her into following in his footsteps. "I'll try my best to guide her on her own way," he said. "She might want something different. The thing I can do is provide for her and do my best to support her. The one thing I want for her is to succeed and do something better with her life."

Meet the challenges faced by the countr

A call to strengthen the party organizations by CPI 

With a call to strengthen the party organization to meet the challenges faced by the country in the wake of neo-liberal policies, which have brought country’s economy to doll drums and also to struggle against mafias and attempts to spread fundamentalism in the state, the 21st District  Conference of the CPI Ludhiana unit held under the chairmanship of a presidium constituted by Dr Arun Mitra, Com. O P Meha, Com Amrik Singh, Com Gurnam Gill and Com Jit Kumari elected Com Kartar Singh Bowani as the district secretary unanimolusly and Dr Arun Mitra and D P Maur as Assistat Secretaries. Dr Joginder Dayal-member Central Executive Committee and Com Nirmal Singh Dhaliwal State Secretary participated as observers. 130 delegates participated in the conference. District Secretary Com Kartar Singh Bowani presented the report of activities in the past and the achievements of the party. After his report a vibrant debate was held on the present political situation in the state and the country and the state. The delegates also discussed the steps to be taken to strengthen the party and take the message to the masses. Dr Dayal gave a detailed account of present political scenario and Com Nirmal Dhaliwal stressed on the need for a strong organization. The report was passed unanimously. District conference also elected a 63 member district council Conference also elected a 15 member delegation to participate in the state conference to be held at Ludhiana from 7th to 9th July 2012. The conference decided to participate in a big number in the pre state conference rally on 7th July.
(Dr Arun Mitra)
Asstt. Secretary 

U.S., Japanese Officials Discuss Osprey IssuesU.S., Japanese Officials Discuss Osprey Issues

American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, June 22, 2012 - Defense Department officials today held a director-level meeting at the Pentagon with officials from the Japanese Ministry of Defense and Ministry of Foreign Affairs to provide an update on MV-22 and CV-22 Osprey aircraft issues, according to Pentagon Press Secretary George Little. Today's meeting, Little said, was led by Christopher Johnstone, Director for Northeast Asia, Office of the Secretary of Defense (Policy) and Air Force Brig. Gen. Terrence O'Shaughnessy, Deputy Director for Politico-Military Affairs for Asia, the Joint Staff. The meeting also included representatives from the U.S. Marine Corps and other U.S. Air Force members who provided updates on the status of the investigations into recent mishaps involving Osprey aircraft, Little said. Speaking to reporters at the Pentagon yesterday, Little described the meeting as an effort to address concerns about the aircraft by the governor of Okinawa. DOD is planning to deploy the MV-22 -- the Marine Corps variant of the Osprey -- to the Asia-Pacific region. The CV-22 Osprey is the Air Force's special operations variant. The tilt-rotor Osprey can fly like an airplane and land like a helicopter. The Department of Defense takes the inquiries made by the Japanese government very seriously and provided relevant information to the extent currently possible, and will continue to do so, Little said. The Osprey is a highly capable aircraft with an excellent operational safety record, which includes more than five years of worldwide deployments and 140,000 flight hours, he said.

Biographies: George Little Related Articles: U.S., Japanese Defense Officials to Meet to Discuss Osprey Issues

CCI issues order against Cement Manufacturers

Imposes penalty of more than six thousand crores on 11 firms
The Competition Commission of India has found cement manufacturers in violation of the provisions of the Competition Act, 2002 which deals with anticompetitive agreements including Cartels. The order was passed pursuant to investigation carried out by the Director General upon information filed by Builders Association of India. The Commission has imposed penalty on 11 Cement Manufacturers named in the information @0.5 times of their profit for the year 2009-10 and 2010-11. The penalty amount so worked out amounts to more than Six thousand Crores. The Commission has also imposed penalty on the Cement Manufacturers Association.
The Cement Manufacturers upon whom the penalty has been imposed are ACC, Ambuja Cements Limited, Ultratech Cements, Grasim Cements now merged with Ultratech Cements, JK Cements, India Cements, Madras Cements, Century Cements,   Binani Cements, Lafarge India and Jaypee Cements.
While imposing penalty, the Commission has considered the parallel and coordinated behaviour of cement companies on price, dispatch and supplies in the market. The Commission has found that the cement companies have not utilised the available capacity so as to reduce supplies and raise prices in times of higher demand. The Commission has also observed that the act of these Cement Companies in limiting and controlling supplies in the market and determining prices through an anti-competitive agreement is not only detrimental to the cause of the consumers but also to the whole economy since cement is a crucial input in construction and infrastructure industry vital for economic development of the country.
The contravening Cement Manufacturers had been directed to deposit the penalty amount within 90 days.  They have also been directed to ‘cease and desist’ from indulging in any activity relating to agreement, understanding or arrangement on prices, production and supply of cement in the market.
CMA has been asked to disengage and disassociate itself from collecting wholesale and retail prices through the member cement companies and also from circulating the details on production and dispatches of cement companies to its members.
The order of CCI has been passed in r/o case no.29 of 2010 and a copy of the order has been uploaded on the website of CCI at www.cci.gov.in  (PIN) 21-June-2012 16:34 IST

Appeal to help 7 year old Nagma

Help Nagma for successful stem cell transplantation 
Ludhiana, 15th June, 2012 (Shalu Arora and Rector Kathuria) 7 year old Ms Nagma (Hospital No: -C-7372377) is diagnosed to have severe Aplastic Anemia, a disease in which all her blood cells stop their production from the bone marrow. Patients with aplastic anemia require multiple blood transfusions and may have life threatening infections and bleeding as the cells to protect the body from these are absent.
            Her only hope for cure is Haematopoietic stem cell transplant with cure rate of 80-90 % is done at the right time. She is fortunate to find a full house HLA match in her younger sister. The estimated expense of a stem cell transplant is approximately cost Rs. 8 to 10 Lakhs. Her father is a truck driver and is unable to meet the daily needs let alone bear the cost of transplant.
              Parents who have 3 daughters is keen to proceed with the treatment of their eldest daughter. Christian Medical College is providing free bed charges and is arranging some free facilities and medication. However, the added expenses need to be met. This is a request to all the well wishers to donate for this young girl and give her a second chance to live. If any one is willing to contribute for the same please contact Clinical haematology office – 0161-5037957 (cmcbmt@gmail.com) or All drafts/Cheque may be taken in favour of “Christian Medical College Ludhiana, Society” and please write  Nagma - C-7372377 at the back of the cheque.  All your contributions would be acknowledged.
         

New Malaria Task Forces Will Address Top Africa Killer

By Donna Miles American Forces Press Service STUTTGART, Germany, June 13, 2012 - Two new task forces being stood up by U.S. Africa Command have set their sights on one of the biggest killers on the continent: the mosquito. U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Melissa McGaughey delivers mosquito bed nets to residents of Debaka Debobesa, Ethiopia, March 15, 2012. U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. James Brock Malaria -- that same affliction that decimated Roman legions, Revolutionary War and Civil War soldiers and a scourge in the South Pacific during World War II -- continues to plague Africa, particularly the sub-Saharan region. Ninety percent of the world's malaria-related deaths are reported in Africa, and the disease kills some 600,000 African children each year. The toll is so devastating that it overshadows Africa's other medical challenges, including HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis, Army Col. (Dr.) John Andrus, Africom's deputy surgeon and medical logistics division chief, told American Forces Press Service. And beyond the pure humanitarian toll, there's an operational one, too. Last year, during Africom's World Malaria Day observance, a soldier from an African partner nation told Andrus malaria is one of the biggest concerns among his troops deploying for peacekeeping operations across the continent. "This was a real eye opener to us," he said. Africom incorporates malaria prevention into much of its theater engagement, distributing mosquito nets and teaching new diagnostic techniques during training events throughout Africa. But at the African soldier's suggestion, Africom went to work to establish regional task forces to help partner nations create a unified front against the problem. The command stood up the East African Malaria Task Force in December with plans to form a similar task force in West Africa by the year's end, Andrus reported. The East African task force includes Burundi, Kenya, Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda and Tanzania. The United States is a member, but has no leadership role, Andrus said. "The task force is led by the African partners who are members," he said. The task force plans to meet in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, in late July to discuss their battle plan for combating the disease, Andrus said. They're expected to identify ways to encourage self-protection while promoting improved surveillance, diagnosis and treatment. "This will give them an opportunity to move forward against a very challenging disease in a very positive way," he said. Meanwhile, the first meeting of the new West Africa Malaria Task Force is scheduled for November. Andrus called the task forces an example of the command's goal of helping African nations confront African problems. "This is a wonderful example of what it means to work with our partners, assist them in coming up with solutions to their own challenges, and then to be a partner with them as we move toward addressing those challenges," he said. Ultimately, this supports the concept of "stability through health," Andrus said. Helping partner nations protect their military forces against disease supports the bigger goal of establishing professional militaries that are trusted by their populations and able to respond to crises, he explained. It also builds confidence within partner-nation militaries that they will be taken care of when they are called on to carry out their missions, he said. "If they can deploy forward, knowing that they are able to receive the health care they need, it gives them confidence they need to be able to perform in a way that promotes stability on the continent," he said. While helping partner nations confront malaria, Africom also ensures U.S. service members who deploy to Africa are protected, Andrus said. The Kelley Health Clinic here recently celebrated its one-year anniversary as a one-stop shop for Africom members traveling to the continent. It provides health screenings, immunizations, malaria prophylaxis and mosquito repellents. "The first step is to get to know who you're fighting," said Lt. Col. (Dr.) Steven Baty, a veterinary epidemiologist for Public Health Command Region -- Europe. "If we can identify the mosquitoes in the area that are going to carry malaria, then we can look at prevention programs." Because Africom personnel often travel in small groups to the continent, officials recognize the importance of keeping them healthy. "Each person is critical," said Army Lt. Col Jose Nunez, chief of the command's health protection branch. "If you have one person go down, that person can't do his or her job." (Jan Wesner Childs of U.S. Africa Command headquarters contributed to this article.)

Related Sites: U.S. Africa Command

The Government has tabled a strong Lokpal Bill

PMO writes to Anna Hazare addressing the issues raised by him
Dear Shri Anna Hazare,
This refers to the letter dated 26.5.2012 addressed to the Prime Minister purported to have been signed by you and several others. I have been directed to make the following submissions to the issues raised:
The Government has tabled a strong Lokpal Bill in Parliament which has features that are more progressive than in any Bill tabled before. This Bill has been prepared after extensive discussions with you and your colleagues and all suggestions that were considered to be feasible have been incorporated. This Bill has been passed by the Lok Sabha. Government is of the opinion that Parliament has to take a final view on the Bill and the passage of the Bill should be a Parliament-led process. To this end, Government is open to suggestions from all parties. In fact, many suggestions have been accepted by the Government in the course of the discussions on the Bill and two all-party meetings have been held in an effort to build consensus. The Bill has now been referred to a Select Committee which will be open to receive and examine all relevant suggestions.
In addition to the Lokpal Bill, Government has taken a slew of measures, both legislative and executive, to curb and reduce corruption. The Public Interest Disclosure and Protection of Persons Making the Disclosure Bill, the Prevention of Bribery of Foreign Public Officials and Officials of International Organisations Bill, the Citizens' Right to Grievance Redress Bill and the Judicial Standards and Accountability Bill have been brought forward. India has also ratified the United Nations Convention against Corruption. A comprehensive public procurement law has been approved by the Cabinet. The National Mission for Delivery of Justice and Legal Reforms has been set up.
A Group of Ministers set up by the Government to consider measures to tackle corruption has approved a large number of measures as given in the annexure. These are being implemented by the various Ministries and a monitoring mechanism has been set up to track progress.
To fight the menace of black money, the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act and amendment to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act have been passed. A special committee has been set up to examine measures to strengthen laws to curb black money generation. Independent agencies have been commissioned to assess the quantum of black money and make recommendations. New Income Tax Overseas Units have been set up and new Tax Information Exchange Agreements and Double Taxation Avoidance Agreements have been signed to contain generation and outflow of illicit funds.
Agencies like CBI, ED, CAG and CBDT continue to function independently as per their mandates. In fact, the term of this Government has been especially marked by zero interference in the functioning of these agencies. CAG has functioned in an unfettered way in conducting audit of various departments.
The Government continues to welcome suggestions from all segments of civil society, including the one represented by you, on measures to bring greater probity in governance and public life. The Government is committed to make all efforts to reduce corruption and bring in greater transparency. The Government is also determined to ensure that baseless and uninformed allegations made against public servants are not allowed to create fear that can lead to paralysis in decision-making and slow down growth and development.
We have noted from your letter that you have previously addressed communications to all the Ministers conveying the allegations made against them for their views.As regards the allegations made against the Prime Minister, they seem to be based on a leaked draft of the CAG on coal block allocations and on media stories. You have provided no evidence to back up these allegations and you have yourself said that you are not making these allegations. All details of the policy and procedures followed for coal block allocations have been placed in the public domain by the Coal Ministry and can be seen by all by going to the link http://coal.nic.in/welcome.html. All decisions were taken in public interest on the basis of legal provisions and relevant policy in force.
The final report of the CAG has not yet been tabled in Parliament. When it is tabled, the Government will submit detailed responses before the Public Accounts Committee as per Constitutional procedure. It is also understood that the CVC, in exercise of the powers vested in it, has recently directed the CBI to carry out a Preliminary Enquiry on a complaint on coal block allocations filed by an Opposition MP and some others. CBI will carry out the enquiry fairly and independently. Your insinuations and allegations against the CBI are unwarranted and unjustified.
I must regret that your statement that "top most institutions of the country like the Supreme Court, High Court, CAG etc. have leveled these allegations [against the Ministers] from time to time", is not only vague but unacceptable.
The tone and tenor of your letter and the broad and sweeping nature of the statements made are also unacceptable.
Your demand for the constitution of a Special Investigation Team has been considered, as also the terms of reference suggested by you. Having regard to the fact that the existing legal and statutory framework has adequate and sufficient provisions for addressing the issues raised by you, your demand cannot be acceded to.
The allegation that an understanding has been reached by the Government with Shri Mulayam Singh to hush up ongoing CBI enquiries is baseless and untrue. It is unfair to the Government, Shri Mulayam Singh and the CBI and an insult to the judicial system.
As regards allegations leveled against what you have termed as 'team Anna', these too would be subject to due investigation by concerned agencies if and when reports are filed. There is no provision under law to subject anyone to twice the penalty allowed under the relevant law.
Finally, with regard to the special fast track courts suggested by you to deal with cases of allegedly tainted MPs, the matter has been considered but cannot be acceded to since Government and the judiciary both monitor the pendency of cases in various courts.                                                                                                                                                           Annexure
Key measures approved by the GoM to tackle corruption
>    Fast-tracking of all cases of public servants accused of corruption –
·       Competent authority to take decision within 3 months on requests from investigating agencies for sanction of prosecution (orders issued since).
·       Competent authority to decide within 3 months all requests for granting/denying permission under Section 6(a) of DSPE Act, 1946.  The competent authority for officers of the level of JS and above in GoI will be the Minister-in-Charge.  (orders issued since).
>    Electoral Reforms –
·       Ministry of Law & Justice directed to come up with specific proposals for initiating reforms expeditiously.  (These are awaiting political consensus).
>    Relinquishing discretionary powers enjoyed by Ministers at the Centre-
·       DoPT directed to issue a general advisory to all Ministries/Depts. to carry out an exercise for putting in place regulatory parameters for exercise of discretionary powers and putting them in public domain.  (instructions since issued by DoPT).
>    Introduction of an open and competitive system of exploiting natural resources-
·       Most of the recommendations of the Ashok Chawla Committee accepted. DEA directed to monitor the implementation of the same by the respective Ministries/Depts.Click here to See the Hindi Version
*******
(PIB)                                                 09-June-2012 16:20 IST

Shri Beni Prasad Verma addressing

The Union Steel Minister, Shri Beni Prasad Verma addressing at the signing ceremony of an MoU to develop a Slurry pipeline of about 450 km. from Jagdalpur to Vishakhapatnam, in New Delhi on May 24, 2012. The Secretary, Ministry of Steel, Shri D.R.S. Chaudhary is also seen.   
(PIB photo)                24-May-2012

Free Museum

Program Honors Service Members, Families

By Lisa Daniel American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, May 23, 2012 - Service members and their families will have free entry into more than 1,600 of the nation's museums this summer through a joint venture between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families. From Right to Left: Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. Mark Butler, U.S. Marine Corps Public Affairs, New York City; National Endowment for the Arts Chairman Rocco Landesman; Kathy Roth-Douquet, the chief executive officer for Blue Star Families; and (kneeling near stroller) Army Capt. Creel Brown and daughter Riley enjoy a free tour at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City on May 22, 2012. The tour is part of the Blue Star Museums program that offers service members and their families free entry into more than 1,600 of the nation's museums this summer through a joint venture between the National Endowment for the Arts and Blue Star Families. Courtesy photo by Melanie Einzig It is the third year for the summer admission-fee waivers, which representatives from the endowment and the military support organization announced yesterday at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The program began with about 600 participating museums in 2009 and its fast growth has been exciting, Rocco Landesman, chairman of the endowment said. "It was really our idea along with Blue Star Families to give back to active-duty service members who defend this country and sacrifice every day, along with their families," Landesman said. "This is a way for museums to say 'thank you,' and also a way for them to build their partnership with DOD." Landesman said he hopes that partnership will continue to grow and offer more of the arts to military families. The free-admission program, known as Blue Star Museums, also "builds an audience of the future" for museums, Landesman said. "Early exposure [to museums and art] is a critical element for building future exposure in the arts," he said. More than 300,000 service members and their families took part in the program last summer, Landesman said. Participating museums, including many children's museums, can be found in every state, he said, noting the program is ideal for service members and their families seeking entertainment on a limited budget. Participating museums underwrite the waived fees, Landesman said, and it is unclear how much money they lose. Museum entrance fees range from more than $25, to some that have only nominal fees with suggested donations, he said. In those cases, he said, service members "could go in without paying, but I think they feel more welcome by knowing the fee is waived for them." Service members can simply show up at a participating museum with their military identification card, and spouses may visit without the service member provided they show their ID card. Here's a snapshot of museum offerings: -- The Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience in Seattle's Chinatown is a Smithsonian affiliate that claims the nation's only museum devoted to the Asian Pacific American experience. -- Reiff's Gas Station Museum in Woodland, Calif., is a circa 1950s gas station complete with antique gas pumps, a vintage tow truck, gas station signage and diner memorabilia. -- Napa Valley Museum in Yountville, Calif., offers all the flavor of the valley, from wine tastings and tours to explorations of the region's history, culture and arts. Family Fun Days are held the second Saturday of each month and reservations are recommended. -- The World Figure Skating Museum and Hall of Fame in Colorado Springs, Colo., honors the world's greatest skaters, from Dick Button and Scott Hamilton to Ekaterina Gordeeva and Sergei Grinkov. -- The American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame in Amarillo, Texas, showcases the western lifestyle and art, along with all things quarter horses. -- The Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History in Columbus, Ga., which honors the 19th-century educator and other African American heroes from Georgia. -- The Merry-Go-Round Museum in Sandusky, Ohio, displays original carousel animals dating from 1895 to the present. -- Cooperstown, N.Y., hosts The Farmer's Museum with its 19th-century village and surrounding farm animals, toys and foods, and The Fenimore Art Museum, on the shores of Otsego Lake, which includes an array of American landscape, history and genre paintings, American folk art, photography and American Indian art. Stephanie Himel-Nelson, a spokeswoman for Blue Star Families, said the organization started the program with NEA based on feedback from its annual military family surveys. "We found that military families are really concerned about the up tempo they are facing and the effect on their children," she said. "We teamed up with the National Endowment with the hope that this would give military families the opportunity to bond, to reconnect, to spend a little more time together, to be part of something bigger than themselves and help ground them." The program has become one of Blue Star Families' most popular, Himel-Nelson said. "We hear from families that they've made this part of their annual routine," she said. "It's part of their annual battle rhythm as they travel across the country, either relocating or visiting family, that they work in visiting the museums." The program is open to active duty military, and Guard and Reserve members. For more information or to locate a participating museum, go to www.bluestarmuseums.org.

Related Sites: Blue Star Museums National Endowment for the Arts

Orientation Programme for newly elected Members

The Vice President and Chairman Rajya Sabha, Shri Mohd. Hamid Ansari addressing at the Orientation Programme for newly elected Members of Rajya Sabha, in New Delhi on May 19, 2012. (PIB photo) 19-May-2012

The President,received a copy of the book

The President, Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil received a copy of the book entitled ‘The History of Kerala Kaumudi’ from the Managing Editor of Kerala Kaumudi, Thiruvanthapuram, Shri Deepu Ravi, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on May 17, 2012. The Defence Minister, Shri A. K. Antony is also seen. (PIB photo)
17-May-201

Sports Minister Sanctions Ex-Gratia Assistance

Ms. Nisha Rani Dutta is living in indigent condition 
Shri Ajay Maken, Minister of State ( Independent Charge) for Youth Affairs & Sports has sanctioned ex-gratia assistance of Rs 5 lakh to Ms.Rani Dutta, an Archery Player from National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons. 

Ms.Rani Dutta, is living in indigent condition. The Ministry came to know through a news item that Ms. Nisha Rani Dutta, an archery player, who has played in National and International archery competitions, was forced to sell her bow to repair her mud house. Taking cognizance of her poor financial position, the Sports Minister has sanctioned this ex-gratia. 

Under the Scheme of National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons, the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports provides lump sum financial assistance to outstanding sportspersons of the past, who are facing financial distress.(PIB)  17-May-2012 12:49 IST

The former President of India

The former President of India, Dr. A.P. J. Abdul Kalam addressing the National Conference on Cooperatives for the celebration of International Year of Cooperatives, 2012, in New Delhi on May 15, 2012. (PIB photo) 15-May-201

The President of Maldivesath

The President of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Waheed laid wreath at the Samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat, in Delhi on May 13, 2012.  (PIB photo)   13-May-201

The Vice President addressing

The Vice President, Shri Mohd. Hamid Ansari addressing at the release of the book entitled “Atharva Veda- Prithvi Sukta”, a collection of poems, written by the Secretary, Rajya Sabha, Shri Naresh Chandra Joshi, in New Delhi on May 10, 2012. {PIB photo}       10-May-2012

A letter from Barack Obama

Same-sex couples should be allowed to marry
Friend --
Today, I was asked a direct question and gave a direct answer:

I believe that same-sex couples should be allowed to marry.

I hope you'll take a moment to watch the conversation, consider it, and weigh in yourself on behalf of marriage equality:

http://my.barackobama.com/Marriage

I've always believed that gay and lesbian Americans should be treated fairly and equally. I was reluctant to use the term marriage because of the very powerful traditions it evokes. And I thought civil union laws that conferred legal rights upon gay and lesbian couples were a solution.

But over the course of several years I've talked to friends and family about this. I've thought about members of my staff in long-term, committed, same-sex relationships who are raising kids together. Through our efforts to end the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, I've gotten to know some of the gay and lesbian troops who are serving our country with honor and distinction.

What I've come to realize is that for loving, same-sex couples, the denial of marriage equality means that, in their eyes and the eyes of their children, they are still considered less than full citizens.

Even at my own dinner table, when I look at Sasha and Malia, who have friends whose parents are same-sex couples, I know it wouldn't dawn on them that their friends' parents should be treated differently.

So I decided it was time to affirm my personal belief that same-sex couples should be allowed to marry.

I respect the beliefs of others, and the right of religious institutions to act in accordance with their own doctrines. But I believe that in the eyes of the law, all Americans should be treated equally. And where states enact same-sex marriage, no federal act should invalidate them.

If you agree, you can stand up with me here.

Thank you,

Barack

Manpreet Singh Badal announces party set-up

*Birdavinder appointed Chief Spokesman
*Bhagwant Mann will be YPP President

 Chandigarh: People’s Party of Punjab president  S. Manpreet Singh Badal has today announced his Party’s set-up. At the State level S.Birdavinder Singh Ex-Deputy Speaker Punjab  has been appointed Chief spokesman , Sh. Bhagwant Maan has been appointed President of the YPP ( Youth People’s Party)  while S. Yadwinder Singh Bhutter and S.Davinderjit Singh Dhose will be Vice-President of YPP.  Ex Senior additional advocate general Sh. S.S.Bhinder will head Legal Wing and Sh. Kuldeedp Singh Dhose will be President of the Kissan Wing.  Mrs. Ranjit Kaur Bhatti will head the Women Wing of the Party. In a press statement issued today by the Party’s Press Secretary S. Arunjot Singh Sodhi, Dr. Navjot Singh Dahiya has been made President of the Medico Wing and S. Nirmaljeet Singh Nimma, Ex-MLA is the head of SC/ST Wing. Sh. Sitar Bhatti will head Minorities’ Wing and Col. Surjeet Singh Firochechi will be President of Ex-Servicemen Wing. S. Amanpreet Singh Chhina will head NRI Wing and Sh. Vibhor Garg will be the President of the Parwassi Mazdoor Wing. Sh. Satpal Adampur, IRS (Retd.) will be the President of Retired Officers &Employees Wing of the Party.  
According to press statement S. Manmohan Singh Gumtala will be District president of Shri Amritsar Sahib , Kulwant Singh Lohgarh Barnala, Sukhdev Singh Chahal Bathinda, Pardeep Singh Sibiya Faridhkot, Jagmeet Singh Sahota ‘Bawa’ Fatehgarh Sahib,Sukhpreet Singh Randhawa Fazilka, Jai Jeet Singh Johal Ferozpur, Hardyal Singh Gajnipur Gurdaspur, Bhupinder Singh Pappu Azrram Hoshiarpur,Dr Navjot Singh Dahiya Jallandhar Urban, Baba Rajinder Singh Johal Jallandhar Rural,Kuldeep Singh Cheema Kapurthala, Er. Jagdeep Singh Jagraon Ludhiana Rural, Munish Gupta Ludhiana Urban, Dr Ranider Singh Bhana Moga,Jagjit Singh Honey Fattanwala Mukatsar, Dr Jaspal Singh Bhinder Pathankot, Avtar Singh Harpalpur Patiala Rural, Joga Singh Chaparr Patiala Urban, Balwant Singh Gill Ropar, Harmanjit Singh Dicky Sangrur and Vijaypal Chaudhary will be district president of Shri Tarn Taran Sahib.District presidents of Mohali , Mansa & SBS Nagar will be announced later. First meeting of all State and District presidents will be on 10th May at Chandigarh said Sodhi.

Completing a successful transition in Afghanistan

Priorities Chart Way Forward for Eucom

By Donna Miles American Forces Press Service STUTTGART, Germany, May 4, 2012 - Using the new defense strategic guidance as its roadmap, officials at U.S. European Command say they've fixed their compasses on four basic priorities: maintaining ready forces, completing a successful transition in Afghanistan, sustaining strategic partnerships and countering transnational threats. Ensuring ready forces is U.S. European Command's highest priority. Here, paratroopers from Special Operations Command Europe descend after jumping from an MC-130 Combat Talon aircraft over Malmsheim Drop Zone, Germany, Dec. 9, 2009. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Isaac A. Graham  Keeping a steely-eyed focus on these priorities is particularly important at a time of limited resources, Navy Vice Adm. Charles Martoglio, Eucom's deputy commander, told American Forces Press Service."Our highest priority is readiness to execute the contingency plans that we are responsible for," he said. "That goes directly back to the Constitution that says the military's mission is to fight and win the nation's wars." That, explained Navy Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery, the command's deputy commander for plans, policy and strategy, means being ready to act if called upon to deal with issues in a 51-country area of responsibility that stretches across the Baltics, the Balkans, the Caucasuses and the Levant. Eucom's next priority is to complete a successful security transition in Afghanistan from the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force to Afghan national security forces, the admirals said. This, Montgomery explained, requires evolving from an operational role to a training role to ensure Afghan forces are prepared to accept increasing security responsibility. "Many people don't realize that most of the non-U.S. forces in ISAF are from Europe," Martoglio said, noting that about 32,000 of the 35,000 partner forces in the coalition deploy from European soil. Eucom has been active over the past decade helping to organize, train and equip forces from countries not financially or logistically capable of doing so themselves.  "Some would say we should expect more from our European partners," Martoglio acknowledged, noting the 90,000 U.S. troop  contribution to ISAF. "But I would say that if it weren't for those 32,000 European partners there, we would require 32,000 more Americans." As the coalition draws down forces in Afghanistan, Eucom's next priority, he said, will be to preserve the strategic partnerships solidified there. "We have been alongside NATO, or NATO has been alongside us, for 10 years in Afghanistan and Iraq," Martoglio said. "We have a combat edge that has been honed by 10 years of working together in very challenging circumstances. "So as we come out of Iraq and Afghanistan, how do we sustain that combat edge over time, particularly when everybody's budgets are being significantly constrained?" he asked. "Our job here is to sustain the strategic partnership, the NATO alliance – that most successful coalition in history – across these difficult financial times." NATO never has been at a higher level of readiness to conduct contingency operations, Montgomery said. He cited the immediacy of a mission that's brought interoperability within ISAF to its highest level ever, but could begin deteriorating over time without a concerted effort to preserve it. "The question," he said, echoing Martolgio, "is how do we preserve all the investment that's been made over the last eight to 10 years – an investment of not just money, but blood and sweat, working together in both Iraq and Afghanistan?" Martoglio emphasized the importance of continued engagement and training, both to take new strategic partnerships forged with Eastern European nations to the next level, and to maintain other ISAF contributors' high-end capabilities. "We have to look toward ensuring interoperability of those forces and routinely training together so that if we have to conduct high-end operations, we have the ability to work together from a technical perspective, and the skills to work together from a training perspective," he said. Looking forward, Navy Adm. James G. Stavridis, the Eucom commander, identified four specific countries for increased engagement: Israel, Russia, Turkey and Poland. Israel is one of the United States' closest allies, Martoglio said, noting the U.S. commitment to help in deterring its adversaries. Russia has a major impact on security in Europe and the world, and forging a more positive bilateral relationship is essential, he said. Turkey, a rising regional power and NATO partner, is able to influence events in parts of the world the United States simply can't. And Poland, an increasingly influential leader in Northeastern Europe, is on a trajectory toward extending its economic and democratic impact beyond the immediate region. These partnerships will be vital in confronting new and emerging threats in a rapidly-changing security environment, Martoglio said, particularly transnational threats that no one country can tackle alone. These include violent extremist organizations, cyber attacks, ballistic missiles and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. NATO addressed these concerns at its 2010 summit in Lisbon, Portugal, tasking member countries to contribute to various capabilities as part of its new 10-year strategic concept. The United States took on a significant ballistic missile defense tasking, Montgomery noted, and is working within NATO and U.S. structures to address other challenges. Stavridis, testifying before Congress in March, said these evolving threats demand the steady commitment that the trans-Atlantic alliance has demonstrated since its inception more than six decades ago. "Working together with our historic partners on these critical security challenges of the 21st century to wisely leverage the significant investments that America has made for over half a century will be more important than ever in light of the fiscal constraints that we all face," he told the Senate Armed Services Committee. Stavridis credited the men and women of Eucom who work alongside allies and partners across the dynamic European theater every day pursuing common security interests and as a result, forward defense of the United States.  "With every action, they are shaping the rapidly changing world we live in today, in order to provide the ensuring capabilities, security structures and trust we need for a stronger world tomorrow," he said.

Biographies: Navy Adm. James G. Stavridis  Navy Vice Adm. Charles W. Martoglio  Navy Rear Adm. Mark C. Montgomery  Related Sites: U.S. European Command

PM's address for NCTC Meeting

The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh addressed the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) meeting in Delhi 
Following is the text of Prime Minister’s address:

“I welcome you to this very important meeting on the very important issue of operationalising the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC).


As all of you know, we had initially intended to discuss this issue in the Chief Ministers' Conference on Internal Security held on 16th April, 2012. But in view of the importance of the matter and concerns raised by some Chief Ministers, we have decided to have a meeting exclusively on this important subject. It’s my sincere hope that as a result of your deliberations today, we will make further progress in improving our counter-terrorism architecture and our operational and institutional capabilities to deal with this menace. I also hope that today's discussions will take place in a spirit of harmony and cooperation, which are essential in tackling the challenge of terrorism.


I would like to reiterate what I have said before. It is not our Government's intention in any way to affect the distribution of powers between the States and the Union that our Constitution provides. The establishment of the NCTC is not a State versus Centre issue. The primary purpose behind setting up the NCTC is to coordinate counter-terrorism efforts throughout this vast country, as the Intelligence Bureau has been doing so far. The NCTC should be a vehicle of our combined efforts to reach the shared goal of curbing terrorism and eradicating militancy.


Terrorism is today one of the most potent threats to our national security. There can be no disagreement on putting in place an effective counter terrorism regime with efficient mechanisms and response systems both at the national level and at the State level. Neither the states nor the Centre can fulfill this task alone. The closest cooperation and coordination is therefore necessary to meet the threats that emanate from within and outside our borders.


I believe that it is the responsibility of the Centre to give form and shape to a cohesive national approach and strategy based on information gathered globally and from all the states of our Union. On their part, the states should use their expertise, knowledge and machinery to secure their own territories and work in coordination with the Centre and other States.

Since 26/11, we have diligently strengthened our counter terrorism capabilities both in the States and at the Centre. I believe that today the State and Central Police and intelligence agencies are working in harmony and in close coordination. These efforts have resulted in several noteworthy successes. The State Police forces have achieved some excellent results in the recent past. On the whole there is broad agreement on the strategy and measures that we must adopt to counter terrorism in all its multifarious dimensions in India, including cross-border terrorism, Left Wing Extremism, terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, insurgency in the North-East and religion based terrorism. However, much remains to be done.


Our government remains committed to working with the State governments and providing them all possible help in combating terrorism. We have been providing financial assistance to the States and helping them train State police and intelligence agencies. We are also implementing schemes on border management and on coastal security, and the scheme for modernization of state police forces. Our government will continue and strengthen these efforts.


The antecedents of the NCTC lie in the recommendations by a Group of Ministers and by the Administrative Reforms Commission, commencing from the lessons learnt in Kargil. It is our belief that the NCTC, in its design and its operational aspects, will supplement the counter-terrorism capabilities of the States and not supplant them. The NCTC mechanism will give each state agency an ability to see the bigger picture of terrorist threats and thus would enhance their counter terrorism capability and access to resources to tackle them.


But for the NCTC to function smoothly and effectively, it is very important that we have a fairly broad consensus on its powers and its functions. We would like the State governments to be with us in this important initiative, which we believe would strengthen our counter-terrorism efforts. We remain open to the suggestions of Chief Ministers. We would like to benefit from their vast knowledge, wisdom and experience.


In preparation for our discussions, the Ministry of Home Affairs has circulated drafts for the Standard Operating Procedures for the Standing Council and for the exercise of operational powers under section 43 A of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Both drafts reflect the detailed provisions for Centre-State coordination in both the organizational set-up of NCTC and in its proposed powers and functions.
With these words, I wish you success in your deliberations and I look forward to an open discussion today. May today's deliberations enable us to continue working together to put in place even more effective counter-terrorism architecture in our country. (PIB) 05-May-2012 11:52 IST


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