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“Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.”
| VBA's Positive News |
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EU approves better bee protection rules
The European Union has approved restrictions on three pesticides to better protect dwindling bee populations, to enter into force by December. EU Health Commissioner Tonio Borg called Friday's decision a 'milestone towards ensuring a healthier future for our honeybees.' The move is backed by environmentalists but opposed by chemical companies.
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UK: Exeter shopping centre becomes home to 10,000 bees
The roof of a shopping centre in Exeter has become home to 10,000 honeybees. Bee-friendly plants and features have been installed on top of the Princesshay centre, consisting of raised beds and an irrigation system to ensure the plants thrive. Centre operations manager Andrew Littlejohns said he thought of the idea after watching a programme about the honeybee's demise. Staff have been invited to train as beekeepers to help manage the project.
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Pesticides ban is a triumph for people power and Europe
Campaign groups and individuals across Europe joined forces to call upon their governments to ban or restrict the use of neonicotinoids. People who had never before taken action in this way, wrote letters to their MPs and plucked up the courage to go into garden centres, DIY stores, and supermarkets to ask questions about products that contained the pesticides implicated in bee decline. On Monday 29 April 2013, EU member states voted to support the European commission's proposal to restrict the use of neonicotinoid pesticides for two years.
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On Africa Day, UN chief says continent's future full of opportunity and hope
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has declared that while Africans forge ahead with 'a new narrative' for their continent, the United Nations will support them as they faced any challenges that remain on the path towards a prosperous future. 'The United Nations will proudly continue to work in partnership with the African Union and the peoples of Africa to help build a continent of opportunity and hope for all,' he said.
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Video of the Day:
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World Round-Up
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Manmohan Singh to seek nuclear deal, investments during Japan visit
New Delhi: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh left on Monday on a two-nation five-day visit to Japan and Thailand aiming to give a "new meaning" to India's 'Look East' policy and hoping it will contribute to peace, prosperity and stability in the Asia-Pacific. PM Manmohan, who flew to Tokyo, his first halt, described Japan as a "key regional and global partner for India".
In his departure statement, he said he proposed to invigorate India's relations with Japan in the political, security and energy spheres. "My visits to Japan and Thailand will add depth and new meaning to our 'Look East' policy and contribute to peace, prosperity and stability in the Asia-Pacific," he said.
On a three-day visit to Tokyo, the PM will make a strong pitch for elevating strategic ties and push for a bilateral pact on civil nuclear energy cooperation. He will hold exhaustive talks with his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe on Wednesday on the entire gamut of bilateral ties with special focus on giving boost to cooperation in defence, economic, energy and other areas.
"There is a growing congruence in our interest and I see this relationship as an essential component of our vision for enduring stability and prosperity in Asia," the Prime minister said. PM Manmohan said in his summit with the new government of Japan led by "good friend" Abe, he will build on the momentum imparted by successive summits to the India-Japan Strategic and Global Partnership.
On the civil nuclear cooperation agreement, the PM, told Japanese reporters that there are problems in Japan and there are elections to the upper house in that country which will take place later in 2013. "But, I do hope that we can make progress in the civil nuclear energy cooperation," he said.
"It will be my effort to use this visit to strengthen our strategic and global partnership, which also includes trying to reach an agreement with regard to civil nuclear energy cooperation," he said. Negotiations for the civil nuclear cooperation agreement have not made much headway since Japan was struck by Fukushima nuclear disaster in March, 2011.
While Japan has backed the Indo-US nuclear deal and the exemptions given to India from international technology sanctions, successive governments in Tokyo have found the going tough in garnering political support for it in the face of stiff opposition from the non-proliferation lobby here. Sale of nuclear equipment and technology by Japan to India have been hit by Tokyo's sensitivity over India's past atomic tests and persistent refusal to sign the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty on the ground that these were discriminatory.
Though India has put a moratorium on further nuclear testing, Japan is insisting on a clearer commitment from it. One of the aspects being debated is the consequences should India decide to carry out another test.
"There are a number of stages we will have to go through before we reach a signature," according to Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai, who said discussions on the civil nuclear cooperation agreement have been given "some impetus" recently. Safety is one of the key issues from the Indian side in the negotiations for such a pact.
In his statement, the Prime Minister also said that, "We will explore ways to harness the full potential of our Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Partnership (CECP) by intensifying and balancing our two way trade and investment linkages". The visit will also allow the two governments to take stock of the progress in flagship projects like the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor and the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor, and to facilitate bilateral engagement for meaningful and mutually beneficial association.
PM Manmohan said he hopes to exchange views with Prime Minister Abe on important regional and global developments of shared interest. The Prime Minister noted that his visit to Japan for the annual bilateral summit got deferred last year due to impending last elections last year.
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Astrology
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Aries March 21 to April 19
Today's beautiful connection between Venus and Jupiter in your message sector may bring a financially beneficially contract your way. You'll have an exceptional edge in any type of negotiation, and your ability to communicate gracefully will certainly help you. You may also hear positive news from a sibling, cousin, or neighbor. If you're a writer, expect a piece of your work to absolutely shine. You may receive brilliant praise on it - or a financial reward.
Taurus April 20 to May 20
Expect a significant financial gain, thanks to a rare and gorgeous embrace between Venus and Jupiter today in your earned income sector. You might receive a raise or other type of enhancement to your salary. If you're in business for yourself and have waited for the perfect time to raise your rates, consider doing so now. There will be a strong probability that your business will actually increase as a result.
Gemini May 21 to June 20
 Today will be your lucky day! Venus and Jupiter - the two benefic planets of the zodiac, will huddle close in Gemini today for a rare, once-in-twelve-year embrace. The type of blessings this aspect can bring your way are virtually endless, but you can certainly expect a positive development in at least one close, personal relationship. You might feel a strong urge to overindulge now either on an extravagant purchase or rich dessert after dinner. Why not? You deserve it!
Cancer June 21 to July 22
Someone is watching over you, protecting you or even benefiting you financially today - all behind the scenes. You might never know who this person is, however it's clear that you're in a glorious position to receive aid from a hidden source. There might also be a positive conversation happening in the background that will soon benefit you - possibly involving money or love. No worries. Whatever this is - it's all good!
Leo July 23 to Aug. 22
 Love might be closer than you think. In fact, it's possible that today you'll receive news that a friend has feelings for you that are stronger than you thought. If this is the case, there's a strong potential that you'll discover you not only reciprocate these sentiments, but would like to explore any romantic potential together. This will be an incredible day to share a first official date. Alternatively, it's possible that you and a pal will make a positive financial move together.
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Improve power supply or face action, Sheila Dikshit tells discoms
Taking serious note of power cuts in the city, already troubled by the scorching heat, Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit on Sunday warned two private power distribution companies (discoms) that action would be initiated against them if they failed to improve the supply immediately.
Dikshit said residents were experiencing long power cuts, despite surplus availability of power in Delhi. The government made it clear that it would no longer overlook outages.
Dikshit summoned chief executive officers of BSES Rajdhani Power Ltd and BSES Yamuna Power Ltd to her residence and asked them to rectify problems in their supply network.
She also warned that shifting of responsibilities between Delhi Transco Ltd (DTL) — the government entity that maintains all major transmission networks in the city — and the discoms would not be tolerated. She said the mess had probably been been created due to lack of coordination between the two bodies.
"The city has between 500 MV and 800 MW of surplus power. We will not tolerate power cuts. The discoms and DTL have to improve their coordination to avoid power cuts," Dikshit said.
During the meeting, DTL was asked to improve maintenance of its network as a number of major transmission lines it looks after had tripped in the past four days, causing long power cuts in many areas of the capital.
Residents of West Delhi had to face outages for up to 10 hours on Friday due to tripping of a major line in Pappankala.
Dikshit also directed Chief Secretary D M Spolia and the Power Secretary to review the situation every Tuesday and Friday. She asked DTL and the discoms to submit a daily comprehensive report to the government and carry out a joint inspection of the distribution network.
"She warned them of action if they failed to improve the power supply," an official said.
Officials said DTL representatives informed Dikshit that a major transformer would be set up at Hastsal by June 7, and another at Matiala by June 30, to improve power supply in various areas of West Delhi.
The BSES discoms supply power in 70 per cent areas of the city. Despite government's claim to ensure round-the-clock supply, areas across the city has faced power cuts for up to six hours in the past few days, even as the maximum temperature crossed 45 degree Celsius.
The searing heat, on Sunday, pushed the power demand in the city to over 4,955 MW, the highest this year. Last year, the peak demand had gone beyond 5,600 MW. Power department officials said the maximum demand is likely to go beyond 6,000 MW this summer.
Senior government officials present in the meeting blamed the long outages on local faults and other technical problems in the distribution network.
The Chief Minister also express unhappiness about the lack of a complaint redressal system for the discoms. She directed them to put in place a quick response mechanism and asked them to give wide publicity to the mechanism and customer care numbers, officials said.
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Will eating corn make me fat?
It's difficult to say no to a delicious, piping hot corn on the cob seasoned with spices in this monsoon weather. But lately, it seems that many people are more reluctant than eager to take a bite.
This is because of the latest health buzz that eating corn will make you fat. As a matter of fact, nowadays many people have parted ways with corn altogether because of the fear of weight gain. Today, we take a look at this dilemma and help you answer the question: Will eating corn make me fat?
Tender corn has about 1/3rd the calories of dry corn. At 125 calories per 100 g, it contains about 5 g of protein and negligible amount of fat.
Bangalore-based Registered Dietitian and Wellness Consultant, Sheela Krishnaswamy answers the top 5 FAQs on corn for us:
Corn is full of natural sugars and carbs; does this make it unhealthy? Corn is not at all unhealthy. Since it's rich in carbs, it's a great source of energy. High in nutrients, corn is extremely rich in Vitamin B1, Vitamin B5 and Vitamin C, which helps in fighting diseases and generating new cells. High in fibre, corn also helps in lowering cholesterol levels in the body by reducing the levels of blood sugar in diabetics too. A whole grain product, it can be easily included in a healthy diet.
If raw and fresh corn is healthy, then why is popcorn unhealthy? Popcorn is not unhealthy either. It's a great filler between meals, as long as it's unbuttered and contains less salt. The buttered and salted popcorn should be restricted because of the fat and sodium content in it. Also, since popcorn is normally eaten while watching television or a movie, there's a greater chance of eating large quantities of popcorn because one is more engrossed in the film rather than the quantity of popcorn eaten. Excess intake of fat and sodium has its consequences on health, as we all know.
Will eating corn chips make me fat? Yes, if the chips are fried and it's consumed in large quantities and the excess calories are not burnt off, they are sure to make you fat. Weight gain is not about just one food, but an energy balance.
Are cornflakes healthy? Cornflakes are very low in fat and contain mostly starch. Also it's eaten in combination with milk, which brings in a balance of carbohydrates and protein.
Regular consumption of corn, in moderate quantities, has been associated with better cardiovascular health. How true is the statement? Corn by itself cannot protect the heart. But yes, it's as good as any other grain like brown rice, wheat, ragi, jowar, etc.
Corn can be used in many ways - as a breakfast cereal, as a snack (boiled corn / corn cup / popcorn), as part of a salad or soup, as an ingredient in a baked dish, etc. At the risk of sounding cliched, weight loss or gain is not about one single food. It's about a healthy lifestyle.
Bottom-Line. Add corn to your meals and snacks to receive its health benefits. Just watch the amount you eat and practice portion control when eating corn and it will not make you fat!
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Virgo Aug. 23 to Sept. 22
An incredible professional opportunity is likely, thanks to today's connection between Venus and Jupiter in the area of your chart that rules success and honors. If you don't receive a promotion, it's possible that you'll decide to launch a business or reach for a career goal that's near and dear to your heart. You may also receive exciting financial news related to your career. If you work for someone, he or she is likely to offer glowing words of praise now.
Libra Sept. 23 to Oct. 22
You might receive an incredible dose of luck in an international, legal, or educational matter that you're involved in. If you're in a court case and an important meeting is scheduled for today, there's a strong possibility that you'll be favored. You might also decide to take a trip overseas, and if so, although it's likely to cost a bundle, at the same time you might receive some type of incentive or package deal. The experience will be worth the price!
Scorpio Oct. 23 to Nov. 21
 Expect a financial boost when it comes to benefits you receive from other people's resources. You might, for example, learn that your spouse has been offered a hefty raise. You might receive a bonus from your place of employment through commission, royalties, or simply an extra bonus check for a job well done. You might also hear news about an investment that is doing nicely or learn that you're entitled to a better tax bonus than you originally anticipated.
Sagittarius Nov. 22 to Dec. 21
An exciting partnership opportunity may arrive in business for you - or you might connect with a VIP client who will offer referrals that will enhance your earning potential. In romance, if you and someone special have decided to make a commitment, it's possible that now you'll become engaged or even married. Venus and Jupiter will embrace in your relationship sector, so one thing is certain: When it comes to your close partnerships everything will be harmonious.
Capricorn Dec. 22 to Jan. 19
A lucrative freelance assignment or second job may come your way, and if so, it'll be the type of work that you absolutely love. You may also entertain the idea of pursuing an office romance if there's someone you work with who has captured your heart. This person will likely feel the same way as you, and although mixing business with pleasure can sometimes be risky, in this case you'll both likely decide to listen to your hearts.
Aquarius Jan. 20 to Feb. 18
 Today Venus and Jupiter - the two luckiest planets in the zodiac - will embrace in your romance sector. If you're single, the opportunity for true love to arrive will be simply remarkable. Be sure to make time for social fun, even though it's a workday. This type of aspect happens only once every twelve years and should not be wasted! Also, if you're involved in any type of financial speculation, today it may actually pay off, much to your delight.
Pisces Feb. 19 to March 20
An expensive, but beautiful home renovation project is likely. Your taste may run to extravagant these days, but no matter what you buy, you're sure to treasure it for years to come. This will be an ideal time to hire a professional decorator to help you choose the perfect fabric, furniture, or paint colors for any room you adorn. Also, you may hear happy news from a relative, perhaps the announcement of an engagement or even that a baby is on the way.
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Moral Story
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SMS
“Sometimes the questions are complicated and the answers are simple.”
LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS
Love is jealous that any should come before her, or after. She would be all in all. If a man will trust her and live in her, he shall know all things..
LEADERSHIP & SUCCESS
If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.
After an accident,
A v.angry driver: I showed u d headlights
& told u 2 go by side.
Santa: I also started d wipers
& said No, no..No no. :D
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Delhi University librarian introduces IT course
NEW DELHI: The foundation course, Building Mathematical Ability, was introduced by Delhi University vice-chancellor Dinesh Singh, himself a mathematician, at the orientation programme for teachers of the subject in the four-year undergraduate programme. But DU was unable to find a teacher to introduce the one on information technology—the course was introduced to a group comprising, mainly, computer science teachers by a librarian.
"It has come to this," says a teacher. "And there's a full fledged library science department in DU." The librarian of Shri Ram College of Commerce, D V Singh, 'introduced' the course on IT on May 23, when the first session of the three day programme was held.
On Saturday, May 25, he took a session that was more relevant to his area of interest —"Library & Information Resource Centres"—along with Dr Shailendra Kumar from the library and information science department at DU.
"He is heading the programme for IT," says one teacher on condition of anonymity, "He introduced the course to us and spoke about how it is to be taught and what DU wants to be taught." He was, apparently, "not that into content". Another teacher who attended the sessions says librarians are now counted as "teaching staff".
"Singh is the convener of the course. This course was more on information science. Now librarians are also considered teaching staff even if they don't takeclasses."
In reality, the position of librarians in the university hierarchy is less clear. The status of librarians has long been an issue with staff unions including Delhi University Teachers' Association. Though they are assigned similar ranks and have been treated more or less equally by the sixth pay commission, librarians are still considered "non-teaching staff" by most college administrations and their retirement age is different from that of teachers.
Teachers' groups and DUTA have demanded librarians be treated not only on a par with but as teachers for many of the senior librarians—such as DV Singh—are highly qualified. Another teacher describes them as "academic non-vacation employees of the university and colleges".
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I've to face reality, perfect time to retire from IPL: Sachin Tendulkar
KOLKATA: Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar, who called it quits from the IPL after Mumbai Indians lifted the title, said it was the perfect time to retire from the Twenty20 event as he has to "face the reality" after turning 40.
Watch IPL Videos
"I think this is the right time to stop playing IPL. I am 40. I have to face the reality. I had decided that this would be my last season. And now the ending is perfect," Tendulkar said after Mumbai beat Chennai Super Kings by 23 runs at the Eden Gardens on Sunday to lift their maiden IPL trophy.
Tendulkar, who played 78 IPL matches accumulating 2334 runs at an average of 34.83, had to stay out of the final after failing to recover from a left hand injury that he picked up a fortnight ago in a match against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
The veteran, who scored one century and 13 half-centuries during his overall IPL stint, played just 14 matches this season making 287 runs at an average of 22.07 with 54 being his highest.
"For the World Cup I had to wait for 21 years and this (the IPL) for six years. So, it's never too late. This is my last IPL. It's the perfect way to end it," a jovial Tendulkar said after his team's triumph.
"I have got to be realistic here. I've enjoyed my six seasons with MI. It's been fantastic journey. This season was superb. We thought our third season was the best but this one is the icing on the cake," he added.
The affable right-hander, however, did not specify whether he would compete for Mumbai in the Champions League Twenty20 which is scheduled for October.
"I can't wait to hold this trophy. I waited for six years. I can never thank the fans enough. A big thank you to all the supporters who enjoyed cricket. Cricket is the winner and we have been able to produce some fantastic cricket here," he added.
Asked about how it felt playing at 40, Tendulkar said, "Anil (Kumble) said that 40 is just a number. We have worked hard together. Even on optional practice because despite all the travelling everyone turned up.
"Things don't come easily, you have to work hard for them. It's exciting but you have to alter your body clock in the grind of IPL because matches finish after or close to midnight. And, sometimes we catch a flight at eight in the morning making all the adjustments that are required," he added.
On whether he would be tempted to play the Mumbai Indians opening match at the Wankhede next season, Tendulkar said, "It's tempting. But this is the best point. Thank you very much, now I can't wait to touch the trophy."
This is the second format from which Tendulkar has announced his retirement after having called quits from the ODIs in December last year right before the series against Pakistan.
Tendulkar went out from the ODIs after amassing 18,426 runs in 463 matches at an average of 44.83. The diminutive right-hander has an astonishing 49 hundreds in the format, including a double hundred -- the first in this form of the game.
The cricket fans will now have to wait till the end of the year when Tendulkar is likely to be seen in action against South Africa in a three-Test series where he is expected to complete a historic 200 Tests.
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Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani
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Movie Name : Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani
Release Date : May 31, 2013
Genre : Rom Com
Producer : Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta
Director : Ayan Mukerji
Music Director : Pritam
Cast : Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Aditya Roy Kapur, Kalki Koechlin.
Synopsis:
When Dharma Productions announced YEH JAWAANI HAI DEEWANI no one expected it to be hyped the way it is at this stage. Despite boasting of the successful reunion of Ranbir Kapoor and young talented, director Ayan Mukerji, after WAKE UP SID, the film was more in the news for its lead stars, real life ex-couple, Ranbir-Deepika, back together on the big screen.
However it was Pritam's music, especially Badtameez Dil, (and Ranbir's dancing!) that just took the nation by storm and hyped the movie to great heights. So let's check out the audio which is being touted as the first real blockbuster album of the year.
t's all out fun, frolic, celebration and innocent naughtiness that one encounters in the chartbusting party trumpet loaded number, 'Badtameeez Dil', that is so very addictive that even when one fails to grab the mad gibberish but highly endearing lyrics at one go, still one gets instantly hooked to it. Benny Dayal is outstanding and it's his show all the way, although Shefali Alvares does join him briefly and does a good job. The song is already a chartbuster and is appealing to one and all, eight to eighty!
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A female ferret will die if it goes into heat and cannot find a mate.
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" INSPIRING STORY "
Helpless love
Once upon a time all feelings and emotions went to a coastal island for a vacation.
According to their nature, each was having a good time. Suddenly, a warning of an impending storm was announced and everyone was advised to evacuate the island.
The announcement caused sudden panic. All rushed to their boats. Even damaged boats were quickly repaired and commissioned for duty.
Yet, Love did not wish to flee quickly. There was so much to do. But as the clouds darkened, Love realised it was time to leave. Alas, there were no boats to spare.
Love looked around with hope. Just then Prosperity passed by in a luxurious boat. Love shouted, “Prosperity, could you please take me in your boat?” “No,” replied Prosperity, “my boat is full of precious possessions, gold and silver
There is no place for you.” A little later Vanity came by in a beautiful boat. Again Love shouted, “Could you help me, Vanity? I am stranded and need a lift.
Please take me with you.” Vanity responded haughtily, “No, I cannot take you with me. My boat will get soiled with your muddy feet.” Sorrow passed by after some time.
Again, Love asked for help. But it was to no avail. “No, I cannot take you with me. I am so sad. I want to be by myself.”
When Happiness passed by a few minutes later, Love again called for help. But Happiness was so happy that it did not look around, hardly concerned about anyone.
Love was growing restless and dejected. Just then somebody called out, “Come Love, I will take you with me.”
Love did not know who was being so magnanimous, but jumped on to the boat, greatly relieved that she would reach a safe place. On getting off the boat, Love met Knowledge.
Puzzled, Love inquired, “Knowledge, do you know who so generously gave me a lift just when no one else wished to help?” Knowledge smiled, “Oh, that was Time.”
“And why would Time stop to pick me and take me to safety?” Love wondered.
Knowledge smiled with deep wisdom and replied, “Because only Time knows your true greatness and what you are capable of. Only Love can bring peace and great happiness in this world.”
“The important message is that when we are prosperous, we overlook love. When we feel important, we forget love. Even in happiness and sorrow we forget love. Only with time do we realize the importance of love. Why wait that long? Why not make love a part of your life today?”
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“Life is what happens to you while you're busy making other plans.”
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