DOD Committed to Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence

June 15, 2023 | By Joseph Clark , DOD News |

DOD policy on AI is publicly available

The Department of Defense (DoD) of the United States has recognized the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing military capabilities and addressing emerging security challenges. With the aim of harnessing AI technologies to maintain technological superiority and strengthen national defense, the DoD has formulated a comprehensive policy framework. This policy emphasizes the responsible and ethical development, deployment, and use of AI systems by the military. It encompasses guidelines for AI research, acquisition, and implementation, focusing on ensuring transparency, accountability, and human control over AI-enabled systems. By promoting collaboration, innovation, and adherence to ethical standards, the DoD seeks to leverage AI effectively while upholding the principles of safety, reliability, and national security.--Editorial Desk

The Defense Department is prioritizing ethical considerations and collaboration in its approach to developing and fielding military applications of artificial intelligence, a top Pentagon technology official said today.

Michael C. Horowitz, the director of the emerging capabilities policy office in the office of the undersecretary of defense for policy, underscored the U.S.' commitment to leading the international conversation surrounding artificial intelligence during a panel discussion in Washington on setting rules and expectations for emerging technologies in national security.

A man in uniform points to a computer screen

Underpinning this commitment, Horowitz said, is a comprehensive set of policy decisions within DOD that governs the development and fielding of autonomous weapon systems, ethical artificial intelligence strategy, and the development of responsible artificial intelligence strategy and pathways.

U.S. leadership, in codifying these principles, is now driving responsible artificial intelligence policy formulation among international partners, he said.

A photo illustration depicting a soldier wearing virtual reality glasses with a chess set in the foreground

"If you look at NATO's ethical AI principles, for example, they're very similar to the Defense Department's ethical AI principles and that's not that's not an accident," Horowitz said. "It reflects in many ways the sort of common values and perspective on how we're thinking about... when we would want to use AI and how."

He said U.S. also led on the international stage by issuing its Political Declaration of Responsible Military use of Artificial Intelligence and Autonomy in February.

In this post a photo illustration depicting a soldier wearing virtual reality glasses with a chess set in the foreground.

"That's a set of strong norms that lay out principles of what responsible use looks like that we're now working to bring other countries on board to endorse since we think that bringing the international community together on this issue, that there is a lot of possibility for cooperation and we want to encourage the rest of the world to take these issues as seriously as the department has," Horowitz said. "And in looking at our allies and partners, we're really encouraged by that."

That commitment to the responsible development of artificial intelligence, and its transparency concerning the development of policy surrounding emerging technologies, is also how the U.S. has distinguished itself from its global competitors, he said.

He said all DOD policy surrounding artificial intelligence and emerging technology is publicly available.

A small drone is photographed while hovering

"That's in contrast to some of the competitors of the United States who are a lot less transparent in what their policies are concerning the development and use of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, including autonomous weapons systems," Horowitz said. "And we think that there's a real distinction there."

At the same time, the U.S. has remained committed to being at the leading edge of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, Horowitz said.

He said the rapid advance of the technology has opened up a wide array of use cases for artificial intelligence beyond defense. The U.S. continues to be "an engine of innovation when it comes to AI."

"The Defense Department does lots and lots of different experimentation with emerging technologies," Horowitz said. "And we both want to do them in a safe and responsible way, but also want to do them in a way that can push forward the cutting edge and ensure the department has access to the emerging technologies that it needs to stay ahead."

Russia Continues Attacks on Ukraine Civilian Targets

Oct. 31, 2022 | By Jim Garamone , DOD News |   

Russia is continuing its campaign of terror attacks on Ukraine as it targets civilian infrastructure, said senior defense officials. 

The Ukrainian military has been able to defend against some of the Russian attacks, but air defense remains a priority. "Damage to the electric grid and water supply are serious concerns directly harming the civilian population," a senior defense official said.  

The United States is working with the Ukrainian military, allies and partners to improve Ukraine's defenses.  

Two service members stand in a field and fire a shoulder-launched missile.

The United States has already provided 1,400 Stinger short-range air defense weapons. Allies and partners have also provided short-range air defense.

The U.S. has committed to sending eight National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems – NASAMs – to Ukraine. Two of those systems are being sent in the next few weeks with the others to follow. Ukrainian soldiers are already being trained to use the system, which shoots many different missiles. NASAMs can defend against a wide range of airborne threats. 

"We also have committed to a suite of counter, unmanned aerial systems, including the Vampire system and other radar systems," officials said. 

And more is being done. "The U.S. also helped support Slovakia's donation of an S-300 system earlier in the war," the official said. "This was incredibly important to protect Ukrainian infrastructure at that point in time, and the U.S. also sourced many spare parts to keep Ukraine's Soviet-type air defense systems up and running." 

Germany and Spain have recently sent air defense systems to Ukraine. A key to this is integrating all of these systems from many different nations to protect Ukraine, and that remains an on-going effort. 

The senior defense official said the latest tranche of security assistance the United States will provide Ukraine includes additional ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, or HIMARS; 500 rounds of precision-guided 155 millimeter artillery rounds; and more than 1,300 anti-armor systems, including the shoulder-launched multipurpose assault weapon. The package – valued at $275 million – also includes Humvees and satellite communications antennas. 

On the ground, the battle continues with Russia’s attack on infrastructure causing widespread power outages. In and around Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second largest city, Ukrainian forces have liberated some additional villages as they continue to press toward the east. Russian forces in this area are focused on reinforcing their defensive lines. 

Farther south, Russian forces are attempting to pursue offensive operations. In Kherson, "we continue to see deliberate and calibrated operations by Ukrainian forces as they press Russian forces along the three main axes," a senior military official said. "We assess that the Russians in this area continue to reinforce their defensive lines, as well." 

U.S. officials said they’re tracking the reports and Russian statements regarding an alleged attack against Russian navy vessels in Sevastopol, a city in Crimea.

One Year Since the Conclusion of the Afghanistan War

 Message to the Force                               30th August 2022

Today, we mark one year since the end of the U.S. war in Afghanistan, and I, like so many of you, have been reflecting on the sacrifice that American Service Members, Veterans, their families, and so many others made during America's longest war.

I first want to express my profound gratitude to all who served in Afghanistan, including everyone on our Department of Defense team.  Every American who contributed to our efforts shared a deep devotion to keeping our country safe, working toward a brighter future for the Afghan people, and standing up for liberty, democracy, and the rule of law.  As a veteran of the war, I witnessed firsthand the bravery, selflessness, and compassion that our men and women brought to the fight.  Your efforts make me proud to be your colleague - and even prouder to be an American.

Two decades of noble service demanded significant and selfless sacrifice.  Many Service members still bear the wounds of war, to body and to soul, and 2,461 brave heroes never made it home.  To our Gold Star families: We hold your loved ones in our hearts - and we pledge to you the unwavering commitment of a grateful Nation.

The
United States went to Afghanistan in 2001 to wage a necessary war of self-defense. 

On September 11, 2001, al-Qaeda terrorists attacked our country.  They were able to plan and execute such a horrific attack because their Taliban hosts had given them safe haven in Afghanistan.  Since 2001, no enemy has been able to launch such an attack on our homeland, and that speaks to the entire U.S. government's efforts to defend our citizens from terrorist threats that could emanate from Afghanistan or anywhere around the globe.

Still, we know this work is not done.  We must keep a relentless focus on counterterrorism - and we are.  Just a few weeks ago, the United States delivered justice to Ayman al-Zawahiri, the leader of al-Qaeda and Osama bin Laden's deputy at the time of the 9/11 attacks.  And in recent months, our military has successfully carried out operations against key ISIS leaders.  We also know that preventing terrorist violence requires much more than military might.  We're committed to supporting a whole-of-government effort to address the root causes of violent extremism.  No one should doubt America's resolve to keep our people safe.

For me, there is no greater testament to the strength of a country's democracy than the fact that millions of people freely choose, every day, to defend it.  Those who step up to serve - whether in uniform or as part of our civilian workforce - do so because of the values we fight for: the rule of law, human dignity, and freedom.

So last year, in the war's final days, the United States, along with our partners and allies, conducted the largest air evacuation of civilians in American history, lifting more than 124,000 people to safety.  I'm proud that our military communities-and Americans from all walks of life-have welcomed our Afghan allies as they begin new lives in our country.

And our values continue to drive the important work that American patriots are doing around the world.  The United States is rushing urgently needed assistance to Ukraine in the face of Russia's unprovoked and reckless invasion.  We are firmly committed to supporting the people of Ukraine and to defending the rules-based international order against autocrats and aggressors anywhere.

As our country looks back on two decades of combat in Afghanistan, I understand that many people have hard questions about the costs of the war and what their sacrifices meant.  These are important discussions, and I hope we will keep having them with thoughtfulness and respect.

Last year, I said that although the Afghanistan war has ended, our gratitude to those who served never will.  Today, I renew that pledge.  To every man and woman who served in Afghanistan: This country will never forget what you did and what you gave.

Thank you.

May God bless you, and may God bless the United States of America.

Lloyd J. Austin, III

MCIP of Ukraine directs letter to Mark Zuckerberg

Posted on 27 February 2022 22:38 

Call to block Facebook pages of Russian propaganda channels

Kyiv:28 February 2022(The Spis News Bureau)::

Culture Emergency International Activity Started in Ukraine due to continued war situation after Russian attack. The Ministry of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine has sent a letter to Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg with a call to block the Facebook pages of Russian propaganda channels.

In particular, such as: Pervyy Kanal, Rossyia 1, Match TV, NTV, Piatyy Kanal, Rossiya 24, Rossiya K (Culture), Carousel, OTR, TVTzentr, REN TV, Spas, Domashnii, TV-3, Piatnitsa, Zvezda, Myr, TNT, Muz-TV and others that spread Kremlin propaganda.

We count that their actions will not take long. Russia's propaganda machine must finally be destroyed so as not to poison the lives of Ukrainians or the world.

They resemble German Shepherds

.....but are more compact    

The only breed the program raisesis the BelgianMalinois considred ideal for the military because of their high energy,strong sniffers, trainyability, agility, speed, drive, work ethic, loyalty and when needed, fiercenees. They resemble German Shepherds, but are more compact.

Courtesy: US Defense Department

Warrior Leap

 During the Pennsylvania National Guard Competition 

Internet: 5th March 2021: (USA Defense Department//The Spis News)::

Army Sgt. Ethan White leaps during the Pennsylvania National Guard Best Warrior Competition at Indiantown, Pa., March 3, 2021.

Photo By: Army Sgt. 1st Class Matthew Keeler

11th National Voters’ Day to be celebrated tomorrow

 Sunday: 24th January 2021 at 05:19 IST

 ECI is celebrating 11th NVD on 25th January 2021 

Honourable President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind will be the Chief Guest at the national function being organized in New Delhi by the Election Commission of India. The event will be held at the Ashok Hotel, New Delhi and the Honourable President shall grace the occasion virtually from Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Union Minister for Law and Justice, Communications and Electronics and Information Technology Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad will grace the function as the Guest of Honour.

The theme for this year’s NVD, ‘Making Our Voters Empowered, Vigilant, Safe and Informed’, envisages active and participative voters during elections. It also focuses on ECI’s commitment towards conducting elections safely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The National Voters’ Day has been celebrated on January 25 every year since 2011, all across the country to mark the foundation day of Election Commission of India, i.e. 25th January 1950. The main purpose of the NVD celebration is to encourage, facilitate and maximize enrolment, especially for the new voters. Dedicated to the voters of the country, the day is utilized to spread awareness among voters and for promoting informed participation in the electoral process. New voters are felicitated and handed over their Elector Photo Identity Card (EPIC) in the NVD functions.

During the event, the Honourable President of India will confer the National Awards for the year 2020-21 and launch ECI’s Web Radio:‘Hello Voters’. The National Awards for the Best Electoral Practices will be conferred on State and District level officers for their outstanding performance in the conduct of elections in different spheres such as IT initiatives, Security Management, Election Management during COVID-19, Accessible Election and contribution in the field of voter awareness and outreach. National Awards will also be given to important stakeholders like national icons, CSOs and media groups for their valuable contribution towards voters’ awareness.

ECI’s Web Radio:‘Hello Voters’: This online digital radio service will stream voter awareness programmes. It will be accessible through a link on the Election Commission of India website. The programming style of Radio Hello Voters has been envisaged to match that of popular FM radio services. It will provide information and education on electoral processes through songs, drama, discussions, spots, stories of elections etc. in Hindi, English and regional languages from all over the country.

Union Minister Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad  will launch the e-EPIC programme and distribute e-EPICs and Elector Photo Identity Cards to five new voters.  e-EPIC, a digital version of the Elector Photo Identity Card can be accessed through the Voter Helpline App and websites https://voterportal.eci.gov.in/   and   https://www.nvsp.in/. 

Shri Prasad will also release three publications of the Election Commission during the event. Copies of these documents will be presented to the Honourable President of India. Details of the publications are given below:

Conducting Election During Pandemic- A Photo Journey: This photo book encapsulates the challenging journey of conducting elections amidst a pandemic.  The Commission successfully conducted several elections in the country, beginning with the Biennial Election to the Rajya Sabha.  This was followed by Legislative Assembly Elections in Bihar, one of the biggest such exercises throughout the world during the pandemic. Bye-Elections were also conducted for 60 constituencies in various states of the country. SVEEP Endeavours: Awareness initiatives during Lok Sabha Election, 2019: This book provides a detailed insight into voter awareness interventions, innovations and initiatives during the 17th General Election, conducted in 2019.  It documents the spirit of ‘Desh Ka Mahatyohar’, the biggest festival of democracy celebrated across the nation cutting through the barriers of gender, caste, creed and religion. Chalo Karen Matdaan: It is a comic book which aims at voter education in a fun and thought-provoking way. Targeting young, new and future voters, this comic contains interesting and relatable characters to educate voters at large on electoral processes. (PIB//ECI)

***

SBS/RP

Phone conversation between Armenia and France

21 November, 2020

 Foreign Ministers of Both Countries discussed the matter 

On November 21, Foreign Minister of Armenia Ara Aivazian held a phone conversation with the Foreign Minister of France Jean-Yves Le Drian.

The Foreign Minister of France congratulated Ara Aivazian on assuming the position of the Foreign Minister and wished him every success in that important mission. Foreign Minister of Armenia Ara Aivazian reiterated the commitment of the Armenian side to undertake joint steps towards further development of the privileged relations and multidimensional cooperation between the two countries.

The Foreign Ministers exchanged views on regional situation and developments following the joint statement of November 9 on the establishment of ceasefire and the deployment of peacekeepers in Artsakh. The humanitarian situation resulting from the Turkish-Azerbaijani aggression in Artsakh and the steps undertaken to address it was touched upon. In this regard, Minister Aivazian highlighted the involvement of the international community in the work carried out on the ground aimed at ensuring conditions for restoration of normal life of the Armenians in Artsakh.

Both sides emphasized the priority of preserving the monuments of the Armenian historical-cultural heritage in Artsakh.

The Foreign Ministers of Armenia and France: Ara Aivazian and Jean-Yves Le Drian, highlighted the importance of cooperation of the OSCE Minsk Group Co-Chairs to fully address the rights and interests of the Armenians of Artsakh.

Armenia circulated a Note

 On the suspension of military inspections 

Armenia circulated a Note Verbale in the OSCE on the suspension of military inspections by Turkey on the territory of the Republic of Armenia.

ISIS no longer in control of physical territory

 OIR Follows in Predecessors' Footsteps in Defeating ISIS 

23rd July 2020//By Terri Moon Cronk DOD News

A member of the Iraq Federal Police with the 13th Brigade practices an assault movement at Besmaya Range Complex, Iraq, Aug. 6, 2018. A coalition created from a diverse international community will continue its support of the people of Iraq to enhance the capabilities of the nation to ensure security and stability.

The Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve coalition has achieved great success in its mission to defeat the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, the deputy commander of CTJF-OIR said in a live satellite feed from Baghdad.

In an update on the coalition's operations, Air Force Maj. Gen. Kenneth P. Ekman emphasized that the success in defeating ISIS is built on the triumphs of predecessors and Iraqi and Syria partners. 

With ISIS no longer in control of physical territory, Ekman said the organization struggles to conduct coordinated activities, because Iraqi security forces find and destroy their hideouts and weapons caches. ISF efforts are enabled by coalition support, including advising, intelligence planning and precision airstrikes, he added. 

Four members of the Iraq Federal Police conduct an exercise.

Members of the Iraq Federal Police assigned to the 13th Brigade, practice squad movement drills at Besmaya Range Complex, Iraq, Aug. 5, 2018. A coalition created from a diverse international community continues its support to the people of Iraq to enhance the capabilities of the nation to ensure security and stability.

''The ISF continues to prove their capabilities as a cohesive force, even in complex operations,'' he said, citing how the Iraqi Joint Operations Command recently wrapped up the fourth phase of the Heroes of Iraq Campaign. They showed outstanding cooperation among the Iraqi army, Federal Police intelligence service and anti-terrorism troops in clearing ISIS hideouts in remote areas. 

''Wherever [ISIS] seeks sanctuary, the ISF will find them,'' Ekman said.

Progress also is evident in coalition reposturing, he said. 

''We are getting smaller. In the early days of the coalition, a broad network of bases was essential. We were battling ISIS in Mosul, Anbar and Abu Kamal ,'' he said, noting that the bases were used to foster U.S. relationships with the ISF and stage training and tactical capabilities. 

Members of the Iraq Federal Police practice urban squad movements at Besmaya Range Complex, Iraq, Aug. 1, 2018. A coalition created from a diverse international community will continue its support to the people of Iraq to enhance the capabilities of the nation to ensure security and stability.

A member of the Iraq Federal Police kicks in a door as two other police men back him up during training in Iraq.

Now, more than six years later, the coalition has trained in excess of 250,000 ISF and has built strong relationships based on trust and mutual interests, the general said, adding, ''The ISF is doing things for itself — training forces and even developing training cadre that we used to do for them.'' 

On July 25, he added, ''we will take another step by handing over control of the base Besmaya to the Iraqis. Spain led the coalition effort in their training of 50,000 ISF since 2015. Their work is done there.''

So the coalition in Spain can depart — divesting equipment and facilities to include enhanced weapons ranges and mock-urban villages, valued at almost $5 million to the Iraqi government. 

Base transfers to include Besmaya reflect a shift to providing high-end advice and support at the operational command level. Because the Iraqis still need coalition help with planning, intelligence and surveillance capabilities and coalition airpower, OIR activated a military advisory group July 2 in Baghdad, Ekman said. 

The centralized location allows military advisors from 13 coalition nations to work alongside senior Iraqi officers to plan and execute operations against ISIS across all provinces in the country, he noted. 

A member of the Iraq Federal Police aims a gun.

''This approach has already proven its value in recent large-scale operations, to clear [ISIS] remnants,'' Ekman said. ''The ISF is already stronger than ISIS. Our high-level advising approach is moving our Iraqi partners to improve self-reliance. Together, we remain united and resolved to achieve the enduring defeat of [ISIS] and regional stability.''

After recently traveling to northeast Syria, the deputy commander highlighted the coalition's close partnership with the Syrian Democratic Forces and their success against ISIS. 

''They are capturing ISIS lieutenants, busting smuggling networks and denying [ISIS] territory, critical infrastructure and revenues. Overall, the SDF is a strong, capable force, and we are committed to partnership with them,'' Ekman said.

The general reminded reporters of the selfless service of U.S. troops. ''Yesterday, we lost one of our young warriors, who was conducting a security patrol in northeastern Syria,'' he said. ''On behalf of our commander, [Army] Lt. Gen. Pat White and the entire 82-member coalition, we send our condolences and prayers to the families of our fallen comrade.'' 

Now is the time to show solidarity

30 March 2020//Statement

Our common goal is enhancing food security  

Millions of people around the world depend on international trade for their food security and livelihoods. As countries move to enact measures aiming to halt the accelerating COVID-19 pandemic, care must be taken to minimize potential impacts on the food supply or unintended consequences on global trade and food security. 

When acting to protect the health and well-being of their citizens, countries should ensure that any trade-related measures do not disrupt the food supply chain. Such disruptions including hampering the movement of agricultural and food industry workers and extending border delays for food containers, result in the spoilage of perishables and increasing food waste. Food trade restrictions could also be linked to unjustified concerns on food safety. If such a scenario were to materialize, it would disrupt the food supply chain, with particularly pronounced consequences for the most vulnerable and food insecure populations. 

Uncertainty about food availability can spark a wave of export restrictions, creating a shortage on the global market. Such reactions can alter the balance between food supply and demand, resulting in price spikes and increased price volatility. We learned from previous crises that such measures are particularly damaging for low-income, food-deficit countries and to the efforts of humanitarian organizations to procure food for those in desperate need.

We must prevent the repeat of such damaging measures. It is at times like this that more, not less, international cooperation becomes vital. In the midst of the COVID-19 lockdowns, every effort must be made to ensure that trade flows as freely as possible, specially to avoid food shortage. Similarly, it is also critical that food producers and food workers at processing and retail level are protected to minimise the spread of the disease within this sector and maintain food supply chains. Consumers, in particular the most vulnerable, must continue to be able to access food within their communities under strict safety requirements.  

We must also ensure that information on food-related trade measures, levels of food production, consumption and stocks, as well as on food prices, is available to all in real time. This reduces uncertainty and allows producers, consumers and traders to make informed decisions. Above all, it helps contain ‘panic buying’ and the hoarding of food and other essential items.

Now is the time to show solidarity, act responsibly and adhere to our common goal of enhancing food security, food safety and nutrition and improving the general welfare of people around the world.  We must ensure that our response to COVID-19 does not unintentionally create unwarranted shortages of essential items and exacerbate hunger and malnutrition.

Holiday Message Sgt. Sarah Meadows

Writing a Holiday Greeting on a Box of Humanitarian Aid

Holiday Message
Air Force Staff Sgt. Sarah Meadows writes a holiday greeting on a box of humanitarian aid at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, Dec. 10, 2019, before delivering it as part of Operation Christmas Drop. The annual operation provides donated goods to islanders throughout Micronesia.
Photo By: Air Force Senior Airman Ryan Brooks

OFBJP Global Meet-2014 on Monday

Sun, Jan 5, 2014 at 2:16 PM
A special event by BJP on 6 Jan--S S Grewal
Chandigarh, 5 January 2014: (Rector Kathuria//The Spis News):

Host Vijay jolly Delhi and Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal Pb.

BJP party is hosting NRI Sammelan by Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) for the first time, organizing “OFBJP Global Meet - 2014” on Monday 6th Jan 2014 from 10.30 AM to 6.00 PM at BJP Central Office Auditorium, 11 Ashok Road, New Delhi. In a press statement here today, National BJP Leader Advocate, Sukhminderpal Singh Grewal said that all preparations have been completed for this mega event by Vijay Jolly National Convenor, Dr. Rajni Sarin, Amit Thaker Co-Convenor and Raj K Purohit Coordinator Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) and their whole team with a view to resolve the grievances of Indian Diaspora. Grewal stated that the Registration will be started at 9.30 AM and onwards ant the first session will be Conducted by Shri. Amit Thakar Co-Convenor. He said that at from 10: 30 AM to 11:15 AM Inaugural address by our BJP Hon'ble National President Shri Rajnath Singh ji. He said that from 11: 15 AM to 11: 35 AM Speech by Honored Guest Shri. Mahendra Chaudhary (Former Prime Minister of Fiji) & Honouring Lord Raj Loomba, CBE (Chairman Loomba Foudantion, United Kingdom ). Grewal stated that in Second session 11: 45 PM to 12: 00 PM the OFBJP Video Film "Bhajpa Ke Sadhe Kadam" Shall be Screened at that time. He said that from 12: 00 PM to 01: 00 PM session will be Conducted by Dr. Rajni Sarin, Co-Convenor "Introduction by OFBJP units" In the Presence of Hon'ble Shri Rajnath Singh & Hon'ble Shri Ram Lal ji National General Secretary Organisation. He said that the Lunch will be at 01.00 PM to 02: 00PM. Grewal stated that the third Session will be Conduct by Shri. Vijay Mehta OFBJP Central Committee Member on Indian Foreign Policy & its Directions. He said that from 02: 00 PM to 02: 30 PM Shri Jaswant Singh Senior Member of Parliament will adress the house. He stated that the fourth Session will be Conduct by Shri. Manjeet Lochav,  OFBJP Central Committee Member on India's Economic Policy. Grewal stated that at 02: 30 PM to 03.00 PM Hon'ble Shri. Arun Jaitiey Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha will Launch Global OFBJP Website compiled by Ritu Rathore. He said that the Cultural session will be Conducted by Shri Gajendra Solanki, Eminent Indian Poet. In this session Special Guest of Honor will be Shri. Venkaiyah Naidu Senior BJP Leader and will release Compilation of Veer-Ras Poem CD. He stated that the fifth joint session from 04: 00 PM to 04: 15 PM will be Conduct by Dr. Abhilasha Sharma OFBJP Central Committee Member. 

In this session the Role of Good Governance will be adress by Hon'ble Shri Nitin Gadkari Former National President BJP. Grewal stated that from 04: 20 PM to 04: 35 PM session will be Conduct by Shri. Bhupendra Kansal OFBJP Central Committee Member . He said in this session Hon'ble Shri Ram Lal ji BJP National General Secretary Organisation adress on BJP & its Ideological Commitments. He said that the Closing Session will be Conduct by Shri. Raj K Purohit, OFBJP Coordinator. He said that from 05: 15 PMto 05: 30 PM Video address by Shri. Narendra Modi, BJP PM Nominee and from 05: 30 PM to 06: 00 PM the Valedictory Address by Hon'ble Shri L.K. Advani ji Senior Leader of BJP. Grewal said that from the OFBJP dinner reception will also at 6th Jan 2014 from 7.30 pm to 10.30 pm at Russian Center of Science & Culture, 24 Ferozeshah Road, New Delhi-1. He said that large number of NRI's will attend our BJP Party's NRI Sammelan from the world.

Santa's Whereabouts

12/24/2013 09:11 PM CST                                                                                       Wed, Dec 25, 2013 at 8:57 AM  
First Lady Answers Children's Queries on This Issue 

American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Dec. 24, 2013 - First Lady Michelle Obama today took phone calls from boys and girls from across the country asking where Santa was located as part of the annual NORAD Tracks Santa program run by the North American Aerospace Defense Command at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado. First Lady Michelle Obama reacts while talking on the phone to children across the country as part of the annual North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Tracks Santa program. The First Lady, who's in Hawaii on vacation with her husband President Barack Obama and other family members, answered the phone calls from Kailua, Christmas Eve, Dec. 24, 2013. Official White House photo by Pete Souza  This is the First Lady's fourth year participating in this Christmas Eve tradition, according to a White House official. The First Lady is currently in Hawaii on vacation with her husband President Barack Obama and other family members. In her conversations with the children she employed a portable Santa-tracking radar screen courtesy of NORAD. Obama started taking the calls at around 11 a.m.local Hawaiian time and she spoke with about a dozen children for around 30 minutes. Santa can easily perform his global Christmas Eve journey, the First Lady explained to the children, because he and his gift-laden, reindeer-drawn flying sleigh can go anywhere in the world at the speed of light. "I'm looking on [NORAD'S] radar screen and right now, Santa is headed to the Republic of Rwanda -- that's in Africa, that's all the way in Africa," the First Lady told 9-year-old Wyatt from South Carolina. "Right now, he is delivering toys to some little girls and boys all the way in Africa. Can you believe that?" She asked Wyatt what he wanted for Christmas and he answered, "A Zoomer [robotic dog]." "A Zoomer? That sounds exciting, that sounds fun," the First Lady replied. Later, a young girl named Ella called to ask, "When is Santa coming to Kansas City?" "Santa is going to come to your house, Ella, when you are fast asleep -- that's how he works," the First Lady replied. "I think he is in Sudan now because there are some kids over there who are already tucked in bed with their eyes closed. So he is going to come to your house as soon as you're asleep." The NORAD Tracks Santa program began in 1955 after a phone call was made to the Continental Air Defense Command Operations Center in Colorado Springs, Colo. The call was from a local youngster who dialed a misprinted telephone number in a local newspaper advertisement. The commander on duty who answered the phone that night gave the youngster the information requested -- the whereabouts of Santa. This began the tradition of tracking Santa, a tradition that was carried on by NORAD when it was formed in 1958. The NORAD Tracks Santa program has grown immensely since first presented on the Internet in 1998. The website receives millions of unique visitors from hundreds of countries and territories around the world. In addition, a live Operations Center is occupied for 25 hours with more than 1,200 volunteers each year who receive hundreds of thousands of phone calls and emails from families around the world.

Contact Author Related Sites: NORAD Tracks Santa YouTube Facebook TwitterRelated Articles: Face of Defense: New York Guard Troops to Help Track Santa NORAD to Track Santa's Global Journey

CMC Events:31st Dr LH Lobo Memorial Oration

Wed, Nov 13, 2013 at 1:59 PM

Oration will be held on November 16

Ludhiana, 13th, November, 2013: (Shalu Arora and Rector Kathuria): Dr LH Lobo memorial trust has been organizing the Dr L H Lobo Memorial Oration and Scientific symposium for the last 30 years, in memory of the late Dr LH Lobo, an eminent and renowned Orthopaedic Surgeon and Former Head of Orthopaedic department and Principal of Christian Medical College (CMC), Ludhiana.   This year the 31st Dr LH Lobo Memorial Oration will be jointly organised by the Dr LH Lobo Memorial Trust and the department of Neurology, CMC on November 16th in the hospital auditorium.

Professor Gourie Devi, former Director and Vice-Chancellor of National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore will be delivering the oration. After the oration there will be a CME on “Management of Central Nervous System Infections” from 9 am to 2 pm. Padma Bhushan Dr JS Chopra, Dr S Prabhakar, Head of Neurology, PGIMER, Chandigarh; Prof Satishchandra, Director and Vice-Chancellor, NIMHANS, Bangalore; Prof Mathew Alexander, Head of Neurology, CMC Vellore; Prof Gagandeep Singh, Head of Neurology, DMC, Ludhiana; Prof Yashpal Singh, Department of Neurology, CMC; Dr Jency Koshy, Department of Medicine, Dr Divya Deodhar, Department of Medicine, CMC, and Dr Vikas Loomba, Department of Medicine, CMC will be the faculty for the CME. 

The inaugural function and the oration will be conducted by Shri Sukhpat Rai Wadehra, President, Dr LH Lobo Memorial Trust and Dr MK Mahajan, Secretary, Dr LH Lobo Memorial Trust. Dr Jeyaraj D Pandian is the Organising Secretary and Dr Yashpal Singh is the Joint Organising Secretary. There will be no registration fee and the program will start at 8.30 am and conclude at 2.00 pm. Two CME credit hours will be available from Punjab Medical Council.

CMC:31st Dr LH Lobo Memorial Oration on November 16th

...........................

Pharmacology for the Central Nervous System Lecture Part 5

Guard Soldiers Host British, Danish Wounded Warriors

10/28/2013 01:24 PM CDT                                                   Mon, Oct 28, 2013 at 11:22 PM By Army Staff Sgt. Michelle Gonzalez National Guard Bureau ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 28, 2013 - Conversational buzz filled the atrium of the Army National Guard Readiness Center here Oct. 25 as those assigned to the readiness center anticipated the arrival of special guests. Command Sgt. Maj. Brunk W. Conley, the command sergeant major of the Army National Guard, shares stories with British soldiers during a wounded warrior event at the Army National Guard Readiness Center in Arlington, Va., Oct. 25, 2013. The visit was the first stop in a week-long visit for British and Danish wounded warriors. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Michelle Gonzalez  Army National Guard soldiers embraced the opportunity to foster international camaraderie by honoring the service of some 57 wounded warriors and their support teams from the United Kingdom and Denmark.After a poignant reception by the welcoming line, the U.S. soldiers took the opportunity to meet and exchange stories with their British and Danish comrades. "The welcome has been phenomenal," said British Cpl. Jay Watt, with the British army's 4th Battalion, The Parachute Regiment. "I was overwhelmed by the warm welcome," Watt said. "I've never seen that before." Staff Sgt. Laura Atkinson of the British army's Corps of Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, echoed that sentiment. "It's been overwhelming and quite humbling," she said. "We don't get this sort of support over in the U.K., not only from the public but from other corps and services." The event was a way to say thank you. "I'm excited for you to be here," Army Lt. Gen. William E. Ingram Jr., the director of the Army National Guard, said in his opening remarks. "Hosting this group today provides an opportunity to thank you for your service and the sacrifices that you've made to the cause of freedom around the world." And that sacrifice was shown both on and off the battlefield, Ingram said. "You've shown valor on the battlefield," he said, "but just as importantly, each of you has shown incredible courage and determination throughout the course of your rehabilitation." Throughout the day, guests received background briefings on the National Guard's history, followed by sessions broken out by specialty that allowed for an exchange in cultural ideas that cultivated ongoing relationships. "We recognize that we are partners and that we need each other," said Command Sgt. Maj. Brunk W. Conley, command sergeant major of the Army National Guard. "If we maintain our relationships, the next time we call on each other and need each other's help, we'll be there standing side by side, ready to do whatever the mission calls for." Guests ended the visit with sharing a barbeque-themed lunch with National Guard Bureau leaders. For these wounded warriors and their support teams, the reception at the readiness center marked the first stop of a week-long trip that includes participating in yesterday's 38th Marine Corps Marathon, a tour of Arlington National Cemetery, a trip to Capitol Hill and a visit to the Pentagon. "I'm looking forward to all of these," Watt said.

Biographies: Army Lt. Gen. William E. Ingram Jr. Army Command Sgt. Maj. Brunk W. ConleyRelated Sites: Army National Guard National Guard Bureau

A hale and hearty welcome to the new entrants

Thu, Aug 8, 2013 at 3:30 PM
A colorful Teej event at MTSM college Ldh

Ludhiana: 8 August 2013: (Rector kathuria): Teej Festival cum Fresher’s Party was celebrated at Master Tara Singh Memorial College for Women, Ludhiana to present an authentic Punjabi Culture with the blends of modern hues. The whole atmosphere was filled with gaiety when college girls dressed in elegant traditional as well as western attires staged their dance performances, skit, folk songs and modeling.
       College Principal, Dr. (Mrs.) Parveen Kaur Chawla gave a hale and hearty welcome to the new entrants and also focused on the significance of Teej Festival in Modern Era.
        Arshdeep Kaur was crowned ‘Teeyan di Rani’, Harmandeep Kaur and Navdeep Kaur were titled Miss Punjaban and Miss Majajjan respectively.  Ashwarya was crowned as Miss Fresher Shifali & Harpreet Kaur as first & second runners up respectively. Sukhpreet Kaur got the title of Miss Diva whereas Garima was declared Miss Crowning Glory. The tag of Miss Beautiful smile went to Gurleen Kaur.Various competitions like traditional style of pleating hair, Beautiful Pranda, Ethnic jewelry, Mehndi Application, Beautiful Bangles and were held and the winners were given prizes. S. Swarn Singh Ji (President, College Managing Committee) and S. Kawalinder Singh Ji (Secratery, College Managing Committee) graced the occasion and stressed on the need for maintaining our rich Heritage and culture in the Modern times.
        College Principal, Dr. (Mrs.) Parveen Kaur Chawla stressed on the need of being aware of our elementary traditions and values. The celebration was culminated by adding another leaf in the book of unforgettable memories of the college.

Teej Festival cum Fresher’s Party was celebrated

Save Punjabi as Subject of Study in the Colleges of Delhi

Remembering Sahir Ludhianvi

An Afghan Uniform Police

No to insecure and hostile work environment

Enjoy the freedom but

Soldier, Dog Reunited

Commemorative function

120th anniversary of Swami Vivekananda's historic voyage

The President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee at the Commemorative function to mark the 120th anniversary of Swami Vivekananda's historic voyage to Chicago from the Bombay Port, in Mumbai on May 31, 2013. The Governor of Maharashtra, Shri K. Sankaranarayanan, the Chairman of the BJP Parliamentary Party, Shri L.K. Advani and other dignitaries are also seen. (PIB)           31-May-2013

Rama Setu - An Engineering Marvel of 5076 BCE