"Imagination is everything. It is the preview of life's coming attractions." VBA's Positive News German investor optimism up more than expected An index of German investor optimism rose more than expected in December, suggesting market professionals think Europe's largest economy will avoid an outright recession. The ZEW indicator of economic sentiment rose to plus 6.9 points, from minus 15.7 in November. Other indexes of business optimism such as Germany's Ifo index and surveys of purchasing managers have also risen recently. Cuba authorizes nonfarm cooperatives Cuba formally authorized the creation of the first non-agricultural cooperatives on Tuesday, a measure expected to permit the growth of midsize businesses as part of President Raul Castro's plan to open the economy to some liberalization. The rules say a cooperative can be formed by three or more Cubans. While agricultural collectives have existed since the 1990s, these will be the first worker-run nonfarm co-ops allowed after the Cuban state's control over nearly the entire economy for decades. . Latin America to grow by 3.8 per cent in 2013 - UN Latin America and the Caribbean will see strong economic growth in 2013 despite Europe's fiscal woes and a struggling US economy, the UN's regional economic body said on Tuesday. The region is expected to expand by 3.8 per cent in 2013, mainly due to a recovery of Argentina and Brazil, and higher internal demand in several nations. Chile is expected to expand by 4.8 per cent and Peru by 6 per cent next year. US employers advertise more jobs in October US employers advertised more jobs in October than September, a hopeful sign that hiring could pick up in the coming months. The number of available jobs is slowly climbing back to the roughly 4 million that were advertised each month before the recession began in December 2007. The number of available construction jobs jumped to 130,000, from 82,000 in September. That's the most in more than four years. Economists were encouraged by the increase because many feared that Superstorm Sandy and business concerns about looming tax increases and spending cuts in the year-end 'fiscal cliff' would drag on hiring.   Video of the Day:

World Round-Up

Political + Shweta Bhatt and Jagruti Pandya: The 2 women taking on Modi in Gujarat       NAhmedabad: Two women have dared to take on the 'Iron Man' of Gujarat, Chief Minister Narendra Modi. The two women, Shweta Bhatt - wife of suspended IPS officer Sanjiv Bhatt - and Jagruti Pandya - former state Home Minister Haren Pandya's widow - have been leading a personalised campaign against him. Not many politicians would want to take on Narendra Modi in his constituency Maninagar. But Shweta Bhatt's campaign isn't just about politics. The wife of Sanjiv Bhatt has hit the election trail as a Congress candidate, but she says her fight is about justice for her husband who took on Modi in the 2002 riots case. Shweta says, "My husband, family, daughter and everybody have been harassed. If they are troubled, why should I as a housewife not come out and raise my voice." A few kilometres from Shweta Bhatt's campaign, there's the story of a widow who is keeping her husband's political legacy alive, Jagruti Pandya. She is the widow of the slain former home minister of Gujarat Haren Pandya. Haren Pandya had taken on Narendra Modi before he was killed and Jagruti says her fight as a rebel BJP candidate is to hit back at Modi for sidelining her husband after 2002. GPP candidate Jagruti Pandya says, "This issue is now in the people's court. Truth will prevail. It appears as if it is taking time, but the truth will come out." Shweta and Jagruti's fight may be symbolic at the end of the day and not affect the electoral outcome, but there's a reason these two women are an embarrassment for Modi. Jagruti Pandya and Shweta Bhatt are contesting on different party tickets, but their campaigning has caused much of an embarrassment for Narendra Modi, as they have launched a very personalised campaign against him.  Astrology Aries March 21 to April 19 An event that breaks your routine may surprise you. The unexpected might also present you with an opportunity to reflect on who you are and what you really want from your life. This holiday season, you may even be inspired to break with your traditions and try something new. With the new moon in your travel sector, you might discover adventure waiting for you in exotic places.  Taurus April 20 to May 20 If you feel the need for quiet time, you may be tuning into your cosmic rhythms. Trying to keep up with other people can be exhausting. You may need to release your expectations of yourself or of others to find the contentment you seek. Be gentle with yourself, and you may find a way to enjoy the holiday season at your own pace.   Gemini May 21 to June 20 You may sense the new moon that graces your relationship sector. If you are already in a relationship, there may be fresh energy in your partnership that will make the holidays merry. If you are single and seeking a relationship, keep an eye on who you meet at holiday parties. You may find a new special someone standing under that mistletoe.   Cancer June 21 to July 22 You might consider a holiday diet as the new moon will occur in your self-improvement sector. You already know that making wise choices during the season's festivities will give you a head start on your 2013 resolutions to stay fit and healthy. Rather than self-denial, look at it as a gift to yourself that will grant you more energy to create your dreams in the new year. New developments in your career may be a pleasant surprise when you return to work after the holidays. Leo July 23 to Aug. 22 A new moon will dance in your sector of creativity and pleasure. If you have yearned to do something creative, now may be the time to get started. Sign up for a class in something that you've always wanted to learn how to do. Or schedule time to work on a painting, novel, or other creative project that you have postponed. Grant yourself the freedom to try something new, just for fun.     BUSINESS+VE BSNL on life support as Pitroda’s recommendations gather dust   Once India’s leading telecom operator and a Navratna, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd.’s (BSNL) finances now paint a scary picture of a company on critical life support and in the absence of immediate attention, with very little hope of survival. BSNL’s losses for the last three years already exceed $3 billion at Rs.17,058 crore. This is in spite of the fact that it registered a whopping income of Rs.89,667 crore or $16 billion but outclassed that with an expenditure of Rs.1,07,095 crore or nearly $20 billion, far in excess of this income. [See chart]. Ironically, in the same period that BSNL has seen a steady decline, the telecom sector, in the last decade has gone on to produce several new billionaires. When contacted, Telecom Minister Kapil Sibal told The Hindu that the main crisis was on account of 45 per cent of BSNL’s income going towards salaries as against a 4-5 per cent-level in the private sector. “We are working on an attractive VRS scheme and will eventually boost incomes by leveraging BSNL’s real estate bank, renting out its telecom towers and fibre optics capacity”. The perfect prescription for BSNL’s revival remains elusive. Sam Pitroda, Advisor to the Prime Minister, had headed a committee to review BSNL’s operations in 2009-10. The committee had recommended selection of the best professionals from the private sector at market rates, and appointment of an eminent person from the private sector as chairman. It suggested separating the post of Managing Director/CEO from CMD and a change of the board’s composition to seven directors — one internal MD/CEO, one non-executive chairman, two government nominees and three external directors. Mr. Pitroda had recommended providing three-year contracts with specific targets for all key management team members and establishing four independent business units for Fixed Access, Mobility, Enterprise and New Businesses. On the human resource side, the committee had recommended completing the Indian Telecom Service (ITS) absorption process while inducting significant young talent in technology, IT, marketing and sales. A sharp reduction was also suggested through retirement or transfer of one lakh employees through processes such as voluntary retirement scheme (VRS). Mr. Pitroda had further recommended disinvesting 30 per cent stake through a strategic Indian investor and an initial public offering (IPO) of which 10 per cent should be returned to the government and 20 per cent used for BSNL’s employee VRS, expansion and operations. He had targeted providing 30 million new high-speed broadband connections in the next three years and significantly, unbundling local loop for public and private companies. He also recommended setting up of two separate subsidiary companies for tower-related infrastructure and land bank and other real estate assets. No to Sam The Telecom Commission deliberated these recommendations and then set up an Internal Committee led by Member Services. HEALTH+VE   Dark chocolate lowers heart attack risk           Daily consumption of dark chocolate reduces risks of fatal and non-fatal heart attacks, new research says. Monash University researchers showed that dark chocolate's blood pressure-and cholesterol-lowering qualities made it a cheap and tasty intervention strategy for a population at high risk of cardiovascular disease. The study conducted by Ella Zomer, Christopher Reid, Alice Owen and Dianna Magliano from Monash department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, and Danny Liew from Melbourne University shows that having dark chocolate daily could prevent 70 non-fatal and 15 fatal cardiovascular events per 10,000 people over a 10-year period. Zomer said the study was the first to examine the long-term health benefits of flavanoids, which are found in dark chocolate and known to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, the British Medical Journal reported. "We've predicted significant health benefits of eating 100 grams of dark chocolate everyday over a 10 year period. That's about the equivalent of one premium-quality block containing a minimum 70 per cent cocoa," Zomer said, according to a university statement. "Our findings indicate dark chocolate therapy could provide an alternative to or be used to complement drug therapeutics in people at high risk of cardiovascular disease," Zomer said. Cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack and stroke, is the leading cause of death worldwide. "We're not suggesting that the high-risk group use dark chocolate as their only preventative measure, but in combination with sensible choices, such as exercise," Zomer added. Researchers used a math model to predict the long-term health effects and cost effectiveness of daily dark chocolate consumption in 2,013 people, already at high risk of heart disease. Participants had no history of heart disease or diabetes and were not on blood pressure-lowering therapy.         Virgo Aug. 23 to Sept. 22 If you have been working overtime to create the life of your dreams, you might decide to step back and enjoy the comforts of your home and family. Your family always will remember the times you spend with them. Cultivate quality time with your loved ones, even if you have to schedule it on your calendar. After all your hard work, you have earned some time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labors; allow yourself to savor it. Libra Sept. 23 to Oct. 22 If you have been waiting for news from someone special, your waiting may be over. If you are single and looking, you may be surprised hear from someone you've met before. If you are in a partnership, you may find new clarity about what you both are seeking. In any case, the new moon in your communication sector encourages you to consider the messages you send and receive. Expressing yourself with respect for all opinions is always a wise resolution.  Scorpio Oct. 23 to Nov. 21 Appreciating with gratitude what you have is key to living in abundance. With the new moon in your resources sector this holiday season, you will have the opportunity to plant seeds that attract abundance all year long. Review your portfolio or possessions to see which brings you the most joy, satisfaction or other returns. Let go of those that no longer serve you. You may want to consider making a donation and sharing your good fortune with others as a way to celebrate the season. Sagittarius Nov. 22 to Dec. 21 You may want a new wardrobe, a new hairstyle, or something else that shows the world you are ready to turn the page and start your next adventure. When you feel confident, you may also discover a pleasantly surprising spring in your step. Whether you are in a relationship or looking for love, your positive outlook will bring attention your way.   Capricorn Dec. 22 to Jan. 19 You may yearn for something simpler this season. Consider holiday activities that allow you to relax. You may also want to make time for yourself to reflect on the year and get a head start on your New Year's resolutions. Slowing down may be the best gift you can give yourself and your loved ones. If you are relaxed, you will be in a much better place to enjoy the holidays, even those unexpected house guests. Aquarius Jan. 20 to Feb. 18 The new moon in your networking sector will encourage you to reach out and catch up with old friends, as well as making new ones. Those you meet a holiday parties may bring leads or solutions to your current projects. If you talk to others about your hopes and dreams, you may be surprised by how eager they will be to aid you in achieving your goals. What better way to fulfill your 2013 resolutions - with a little help from your friends.   Pisces Feb. 19 to March 20 Job opportunities may appear this holiday season. If you are already employed, now may be the time for you to plant the seeds for a new endeavor that will bring you greater visibility or authority. Or if you are in the market for a new job, start your search now. The new year may bring you an unexpected raise; be ready for it.   Moral Story   SMS   Be like a candle which burns itself but gives light to others. LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS     People love others not for who they are, but for how they make them feel.   LEADERSHIP & SUCCESS   “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader. ” Boy: Where Are You Going? Girl: For Suicide.. Boy: Then, Why Soo Much Make-Up? Girl: You Idiot..!! Tomorrow My Photo will Come In Newspaper....xD

EDUCATION +VE Twin achievements for Banaras Hindu University     VARANASI: In twin achievements, while the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) became the first Indian university to join the Tony Blair Faith Foundation's Faith and Globalisation Initiative (FGI) network, which was launched in 2008 and includes 11 other influential global institutions such as Yale University and Peking University, it had also got the prestigious UNESCO Chair for Peace and Intercultural Understanding. An agreement with BHU was made by former British prime minister Tony Blair, in the presence of BHU professor Priyankar Upadhyaya, UNESCO, Malviya Centre for Peace Research, at New Delhi on Monday. BHU chancellor, Dr Karan Singh was also present at the programme. Upadhyaya said the partnership is the start of the Tony Blair Faith Foundation's Faith and Globalisation Initiative network in India. Tony Blair was in New Delhi to launch the partnership with BHU and to foster co-operation with Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), paving way for stronger interfaith and religious understanding in India. FGI equips students with the skills needed to understand religion's presence and importance in the modern world, so they become successful leaders and policy makers of future. The programme will explore issues such as religion and conflict, religion and public life and human rights. Students will have the opportunity to connect with counterparts across the globe. They will learn to understand how religion motivates society and the world and learn to respect difference and not fear it. Moreover, before joining the Tony Blair Faith Foundation's Faith and Globalisation Initiative (FGI) network the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) had also got prestigious UNESCO Chair for Peace and Intercultural Understanding. The UNESCO Chair was established at the BHU in 2010. The fields/disciplines of the Chair include peace studies, human rights, cultural diversity, and intercultural studies.According to UNESCO chair-holder Prof Priyankar Upadhyaya, the purpose of the Chair is to explore and highlight the potentials of cultural in particular religious diversity as a resource for peace rather than a barrier, and to create a global hub for research, training, information and documentation in the fields of peace, conflicts resolution and human development sensitive to the issues of structural and cultural diversity. SPORTS +VE Sachin Tendulkar best player of his generation: Graham Gooch   NAGPUR: Graham Gooch and Sachin Tendulkar have a lot in common. Much like the Indian master, Gooch too has a nearly two decade international career. Both are highest run-scorers of their respective countries; both kept scoring as they grew older. However, it has been different last one and half years for Tendulkar. With runs not coming as expected, the fingers keep pointing towards the 39-year-old after every outing. Having seen all these during his playing days, Gooch understands what Tendulkar is going through. The former England skipper, who is now England's batting coach, feels Tendulkar will again find ways of scoring runs. "As you get older, your reflexes are not as good as when you are younger. But you can adapt the way you play to make sure to you can continue to have success. The art of scoring runs evolves as you grow. Sachin is 39 and it can be said he has passed his prime but I am sure he will find different adapting methods," Gooch said. "He is the best player of his generation. Every player has ups and downs and I think Sachin has more ups than downs. He is having a lean time at the moment but he played well in the first innings of Kolkata Test. All the players in the England dressing room have utmost respect for him for the way he has conducted himself throughout his career. He has been a great ambassador and hero all round the world," Gooch said. It has been an amazing turnaround for England, especially after the Ahmedabad loss. Gooch feels his side stayed positive after the loss and that helped a lot. "I think when you go into match, you always expect to win. You never go into match expecting to lose. It's great to see boys coming good in the last two Tests but that's past now and they have a bigger challenge ahead," he said. Unlike India, who went to England under prepared last year, England did their homework thoroughly before the important series. "We prepared very well. We went to Dubai first and had a camp there. Then, we had two weeks in Mumbai. We also played three matches before the Ahmedabad Test. We brought our own spinners for Dubai camp and we practiced long and hard to improve that aspect (playing against spin) of the game. I think, in the last two Tests we have got some rewards," he said.         Dabangg 2 Dabangg 2 Movie Name : Dabangg 2 Release Date : December 21, 2012 Genre : Action Producer : Arbaaz Khan, Dhillin Mehta Director : Arbaaz Khan Music Director : Sajid - Wajid Cast : Salman Khan, Sonakshi Sinha, Vinod Khanna, Prakash Raj. Synopsis:   Dabangg 2 is an upcoming Bollywood action film directed and produced by Arbaaz Khan under the banner of Arbaaz Khan Productions.It is a sequel to the 2010 film Dabangg and is written by Dilip Shukla. Story is set in the city of Kanpur.   The film will feature Salman Khan and Sonakshi Sinha reprising their roles from the previous film, whilst Prakash Raj plays the main antagonist. Development of the project commenced after the release of Dabangg, which turned out to be a worldwide blockbuster. Filming began on 9 March 2012 in Kamalistan Studio in Mumbai. It is slated for release on 21 December 2012. The first look poster unveiled on 8th November 2012, whilst the theatrical trailer was premiered on 10th November 2012, on Khan's reality show Bigg Boss 6.   Its trailer was also released in cinemas on the day of Diwali along with Son of Sardaar.     if you try to say the alphabet without moving your lips or tongue every letter will sound the same " INSPIRING STORY "     Two frogs   A group of frogs were traveling through the woods, and two of them fell into a deep pit. When the other frogs saw how deep the pit was, they told the two frogs that they were as good as dead.   The two frogs ignored the comments and tried to jump up out of the pit with all their might. The other frogs kept telling them to stop, that they were as good as dead.   Finally, one of the frogs took heed to what the other frogs were saying and gave up. He fell downand died. The other frog continued to jump as hard as he could. Once again, the crowd of frogs yelled at him to stop the pain and just die. He jumped even harder and finally made it out. When he got out, the other frogs said, "Did you not hear us?" The frog explained to them that he was deaf. He thought they were encouraging him the entire time. This story teaches two lessons: 1. There is power of life and death in the tongue. An encouraging word to someone who is down can lift them up and help them make it through the day. 2. A destructive word to someone who is down can be what it takes to kill them. Be careful of what you say. Speak life to those who cross your path. The power of words... it is sometimes hard to understand that an encouraging word can go such a long way. Anyone can speak words that tend to rob another of the spirit to continue in difficult times. Special is the individual who will take the time to encourage another.

“The pleasures of the senses pass quickly; those of the heart become sorrows,but those of the mind are ever with us, even to the end of our journey.”