Marketing Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 6

Marketing - Article Example esearch works carried out on the test subjects exposed them to unscented environment (control) versus a scented environment to conclude on the effect of scent on the purchasing behaviour of the consumer. After extensive research, the conclusion drawn was that a scented environment exclusively influences the purchasing behaviour of consumers positively. The differentiation of a product from its competitors is possible through branding which gives the product a personality. Individuals are therefore able to identify the product on personality basis. Research carried out wanted to prove the influence of a brand image on the willingness of the consumer to purchase the product. The difference in brand personalities does not make the consumer perceive a product superior or inferior but the image of the brand is that which affects the consumer behaviour of the product. The test subjects of the research belonging to the same group showed similar attributes in their characters. The researchers urged the managers and marketers of products to rely on their findings so that the consumer behaviours’ are influenced positively during advertisements. In doing so, the producers will have captured the desired target group (consumers) effortlessly. The overexposure of an advertisement not only causes an organization financial stress but also causes a wear out effect on the viewers. The wear in effect on the other hand happens when the viewer cannot consciously recall an advertisement. Overexposure of an advertisement reduces its effectiveness therefore causing a wear out effect subsequently happens. The variation of an advertisement is of importance to the producer or retailer of a product because it emphasizes on the various ways in which the consumer recalls the product. Test subjects exposed to various products for the experiment on brand recognition, brand liking and advert recognition resulted to the following; higher brand recognition when the frequency of advertisement

Daimler Chrysler Merger Essay Example for Free

Daimler Chrysler Merger Essay The DaimlerChrysler Merger (A): Gaining Global Competitiveness Question 1: What was the situation at Daimler and what was the situation at Chrysler before the merger? The situation at Daimler was difficult before the merger because Daimler experienced tremendous losses in the beginning of 1990s. Starting from 1995 when the new CEO came in place some changes were instantly done, for example, unprofitable business units were either closed, restructured or sold. Even though the new CEO had in mind how to turn the company around, the Japanese rivals competed really well by offering comparable products in the car industry at cheaper prices. In general, the auto industry was shifting, basically many of the luxury car brand merged with other bigger car companies around the world, and therefore, the number of luxury car brands expanded which also had a positive impact on the economy overall. Chrysler, on the other hand, also experienced a tough period during those two decades; the company was near the bankruptcy twice. Nonetheless, the firm shifted its focus in the direction of cars and light trucks. In the 1990s, Chrysler made significant shifts which ultimately led the company toward a stronger competitor in the car industry. Chrysler shifted its focus and headed for the cost-effective approach, thus the firm was known to be the leanest car manufacturer During the 1990s the company experienced positive changes which turned them into a strong player. The company was focused toward cost-effectiveness approaches which turned to be new world standards. The company was considered as the leanest manufacturer compared to the other participants of the Big3. Nevertheless, the company’s position in the market was weakening after its attempts to expand the company beyond NAFTA. Question 2: How does the external macro-environment look like for the automotive passenger car industry? To address this question I will use the PESTLE forces analysis. Political- the political factors were pretty much stable for the automotive car industry. At the time of the merger and in general, there was not perceived any political instability that would negatively affect this industry. Competition was solely based on the products that each of the companies produced. Economic- The economic factors of that time seemed to contribute positively to the success of the companies. During the 1970s car manufacturers were able to produce fuel-efficient cars due to the oil crises of that time. Countries such as Asia and Latin America were in the expansion nd developing phase and promised an attractive future for the car manufacturing industry. Nevertheless, economic difficulties due to currency volatility, high inflation and competitive pressure resulted in a negative impact for the companies in these markets. Production costs were reduced due to the low cost of raw materials that were set by the suppliers of that time. Socio-Cultural- Socio-Cultural factors of that time did not have a strong impact on the future of the industry. The biggest impact was due to the doubled world population which increased the number of cars purchased. Technological- these factors were the most influential for the future of the car manufacturing industry. The technological developments during the two last decades have shaped largely this industry sector by changing the production methods, affecting the production costs, and changing the working capacities and the employment levels. The companies were investing huge amounts of money in RD which was one of the most crucial aspects of their success. Authorities undertook various technological approaches by the use of computers to reduce the flow of traffic and pollution levels. Environmental- These factors were also crucial for the success of the companies as the world was becoming more conscious and aware for the negative impact that car emissions had on the environment. In order to reduce this impact, companies undertook actions to change the manufacturing process and produce more efficient cars with lower negative impact on the environment. As explained above, the technological developments also played an important role on the reduction of negative impact that cars had and still have on the environment.

E Commerce Also Called Electronic Commerce Information Technology Essay

E Commerce Also Called Electronic Commerce Information Technology Essay E-commerce, also called electronic commerce is use of the Internet and to transact the business. More formally, we must focus on the digital enabled commercial transactions between and among the organization and the individuals. Each of these components is very important in the e-commerce. The digitally enabled transactions are include all the transactions that mediated by the digital technology. These means the transactions will occur over the Internet and the Web. Besides that, the commercial transactions are involved with the exchange of the value such as money across the organizational or the individual boundaries in return for the services and the products. The exchange of the value is very important for understanding the limits of the e-commerce because without an exchange of the value, there will not have the commerce occurs. Other than that, e-commerce can do different types of the business activity such as online shopping, electronic payments, online auctions, internet banki ng, online ticketing and others. The online shopping is the people can buy or selling the goods through the Internet. The electronic payments are when the people buy the goods at the e-commerce website, they will be use the electronic payments to pay the fee and this also can reduce the inefficiency and associated with writing or mailing the checks. The internet banking is the people can do the banking operations through the banks website and no need to visit to the bank, so it will save our time. The online ticketing is the people can book the tickets such as train tickets, movie tickets, air tickets and other tickets through the online, so the people no need to queue up at the ticket counters. Moreover, there have the seven unique features of the e-commerce technology, which are ubiquity, global reach, universal standards, richness, interactivity, information density and personalization/ customization. So, the e-commerce website that I choose is the eBay.com. 3.0 Answer of Question 1: The eBay website is the website that allow the people sales or purchase the goods. The people can register the account of this website to get more clearly information and easily to sales your goods on this website or purchase the goods on this website. When people have the account, the website wills automatic record the history that they selling and purchasing and the people also can send the message to merchant to get more clearly information about the goods. 3.1 Seven Unique Features of E-commerce Besides that, there are the seven unique features of e-commerce technology inside this website and have one feature is implementing well and one is implementing poorly. 3.1.1 Ubiquity Ubiquity means that the commercial transaction or any activities that related with the e-commerce is available at everywhere such as at workplaces, at homes and even on the mobile devices and also can sign in to the e-commerce websites anytime. The ubiquity of e-commerce website can help the consumers reduces the transaction costs that the costs of participating in the market. In additional, the consumers no need to spend the time to go market to make a purchase. During this time, the people will always choose the path that requiring the least effort and can make them more convenient, so the e-commerce website is more suitable to them. For example, the eBay website is not only in Malaysia but also in United Kingdom, United States, Australia, Canada, China, Korea, Singapore and other country. So, the consumers can purchase the goods from other country. In addition, this website also can stay connected to Facebook, Google+, Twitter and eBay mobile. 3.1.2 Global Reach Global reach means that the e-commerce technology is permits the commercial transaction to cross the national boundaries and make it more conveniently. So, they have many e-commerce merchants will create an e-commerce website to make it become a potential market and famous in the world. The total number of the users or consumers in the e-commerce business can obtain is a measure of its reach. For example, eBay website is the ubiquity website, so people in the whole world can go through this website to do the goods sales or purchases. It also can let people do the commercial transaction between each nation. 3.1.3 Universal Standards A universal standard means the standards that are shared by all nations around the world. The universal technical standards of the e-commerce are a greatly lower market entry cost, which means the merchants must pay the costs of the goods that they bring to the market. Besides that, for the consumers, the universal standards will reduce the search costs, which means the effort required to find the suitable products. Furthermore, to create the one-world marketspace, where the prices and product descriptions must be inexpensively displayed for all people to see and the price discovery must becomes faster, simpler and more accurate. For example, eBay website has the universal standard that can share by all nations which have this website. The entire eBay website will have free cost of visit this website for users and users can register the account to get more details information of the products. 3.1.4 Richness Richness means the complexity and content of a message. Back to the early days, the traditional markets have a great richness; they are able to provide the personal, face-to-face services using an aural and visual cue when they do the selling with consumers. So, the richness of the traditional markets makes them have a powerful selling or commercial environment. The e-commerce technologies have changed the traditional trade-off between the richness and reach, the larger the people reached, the less rich the message. For example, the eBay website will deliver the full descriptions or details of each product. So, it will let the consumers know the feature of each product and decide whether want to buy the product or not. Besides that, eBay website provide the community to let the seller communicate with the consumers to promote and explain the products to them. 3.1.5 Interactivity Interactivity means the technology that allows for two-way of communication between the merchant and consumer. The interactivity is works through the interaction with the people. Moreover, the interactivity is allows the online merchant to attract the consumer in the ways similar to the face-to-face experience and it is more massive and global scale. For example, the eBay website has provided a community to allow everyone do any announcement, enquiry and discussion between each and other. So that, the buyer and consumers which are stay at different nation also can do the commercial transaction. They can communication at the eBay website or change the e-mail each other for more detail asking. 3.1.6 Information Density Information Density means the total amount and the quality of information are available to all market participants. It is reduce the information costs and increases the quality of the information to making it more useful and important. For example, the eBay website is full of the information such as the detail information of the goods with the picture. So that, the consumers no need to pay any costs for searching the details information and the information that provide by eBay website is accurate and useful. 3.1.7 Personalization/Customization Personalization means the merchants can target their marketing messages to the specific individuals by adjusting the message to the persons name, last purchases and interests. For example, eBay website will send the different marketing messages to the different consumers which are already register and have the record in their system. The customization means the users can change the delivered goods or service based on their own preferences or prior behaviour. For example, eBay website allows the consumers do the wish list that is which products that you want to deliver first or which service you want to the seller to do. 3.2 Implement Well and Implement Poorly The ubiquity is implementing well in the eBay website because there are many country have this official website, so the people can sales or purchase the goods from different country. So, consumers can do the comparison of products between different country and choose the suitable products that they need. The interactivity is implementing poorly in the eBay website because it is not a real time chat. They just provided the community to allow everyone do any announcement, enquiry and discussion between each and other. If the consumers do the announcement, they must wait for the seller do the reply and this is inconvenience. In my opinion, I suggest the eBay website must add the real time chat like the Facebooks real time chat because it let the consumers and seller can communicate to each other, so can easily do the commercial transaction. This method can increase the interactivity between the seller and consumer and can make eBay website more famous. 4.0 Conclusion of Question 1: In the conclusion, there have many advantages of the online purchase. The first advantages are lower price. The goods are usually cheaper on the website because the warehouse and staff costs are lower and the e-commerce website want to attract and keep the customers. The second advantages are convenience. People can access the e-commerce website through the internet and they can do it at anywhere such as home and it also can save their time. The third advantages are wide choice. There have many e-commerce website around the world, so it will give more choices to the people to choose the good and famous website. The last advantages are quick delivery. Most of the e-commerce website will deliver the goods to consumer within a few days. So, the e-commerce website gives many benefits to the people. 5.0 Introduction of Question 2: During this technology generation, there have many people are using the computer through online to visit the e-commerce website to do online shopping. This means the online purchase has gained immense popularity and famous in todays times. What is means of the online shopping? Online shopping is the process that the sellers will sales the goods to the e-commerce website or the buyers purchase the goods through the e-commerce website. The sellers and buyers will interact and negotiate through the e-mail messages, chat, or video call by using the VoIP (Voice-over Internet Protocol) service providers. Some of the e-commerce website can stay connected to the Facebook, Twitter or Google+ like the eBay website, and then the sellers and buyers also can do interact in these few website. Besides that, there are some several names that we can find pertaining to the online shopping itself such as e-store, e-shop, web store, web shop, virtual store and online store. In addition, there also have the advantages and disadvantages of the online purchase. 6.0 Answer of Question 2: 6.1 Buying Products through Online I have chosen to buy the product through online and didnt buy from the physical shop because it is more convenience. I can just order the product that I need at home or anywhere through the internet and no need to go to the physical shop or shopping mall to purchase the product. After do the order, I just need to wait for the product that delivers to my home. Besides that, I not have my own vehicle so cannot always go out to the physical shop to purchase the product and it is give the inconvenience to me. So, that is why I have chosen to buy the product through online. In addition, it also can save my time because I no need to spent time to go the physical shop and I can use that time to do my own work. Furthermore, I can do the comparison of the products such as the features and prices of the products and it can help me to do the deciding to purchase which products better. 6.2 Advantages of Online Purchase There are many advantages of the online purchase such as convenience, research capabilities, infinite choice and no pressure sales. 6.2.1 Convenience The first advantages of the online purchase are convenience. All the e-commerce websites are allow the people to purchase the products in 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. So people can visit the websites anytime and can do online purchase at their leisure or regardless of their time zone. Besides that, people also can do the online purchase at everywhere such as their home or office and no need to go the physical shop to purchase the products. This is especially useful for mothers that want to take care for the small children. By purchasing through online, people no need worry about the inclement weather or havent vehicles to go to the physical shop. So, the online purchase is making us more convenience. 6.2.2 Research Capabilities The second advantages of the online purchase are research capabilities. There are many e-commerce website in internet to allow people purchase the product. So, people can easily do the comparison of the features and prices of the products that they want. It can let the people can purchase the good products and also can save their money. Besides that, the online merchants can provide more detail information about their product that they sales on the website and this can help them save the cost of print catalog. They also can share the products information and reviews to some website to let people interest to the product. 6.2.3 Infinite Choices The third advantages of the online purchase are infinite choices. There are many e-commerce website and people can choose the website that they think is good. There are some famous e-commerce websites such as eBay.com, Amazon.com and Mudah.com. There are many products sales in the e-commerce website such as cloths, mobile phones, computer, jewellery and vehicles. So, people have the infinite choices to choose the products that have the good quality, features and lower prices. Other than that, because have the infinite choices of the products, people can easily to do the comparison of the products. For example, people can do the comparison between the own country products and other country products to know about which country products are the best. 6.2.4 No Pressure Sales The last advantages of the online purchase are no pressure sales. When we are go to the shopping mall, must have the aggressive salesman often pressurize us to test their products and then call us to buy their products. This action will make us feel troublesome and dont want to go there again. On the contrary, the online shopping will not have this kind problem and we also can keeps annoying salesman at bay. The e-commerce website will not force people to purchase anything and they just allow them to visit their website with no cost entering. 6.3 Disadvantages of Online Purchase There are many disadvantages of the online purchase such as cannot physically see the products, must wait the products arrive, delivery risks and online security. 6.3.1 Cannot Physically See the Products The first disadvantages of the online purchase are cannot physically see the products. Normally, when we are going to the physical shop, we at least can see the model of products and we can choose the size and colour of the products. On the contrary, when we are purchase the products through online, we just only can see the picture of the products and cannot to see the physical products, so that we cannot touch and try out the products to estimate the qualities of the products. Some people are like to try the products before do the payment, but this feature is cannot find in the online purchase. 6.3.2 Wait the Products Arrive The second disadvantages of the online purchase are must wait for the products to arrive. When we are purchase the products through the e-commerce website, we must take the few days to wait the products to arrive and during the times to wait for the products, it can be make us quite frustrating. If we are purchase the products from other country like United States, so we must take a long time to wait for the products because the distance is too far. On the contrary, if we are purchase the products at the physical shop, we can get it after make a payment and no need to wait for long times. 6.3.3 Delivery Risks The third disadvantages of the online purchase are delivery risks. When we are doing the online purchase, we must be wait deliver to us. What if the products that we are expecting are never arrives at long time, we will worry about is the seller scam us or the courier company didnt deliver the products to us. Besides that, what if the courier company is deliver the products to us during the time we are not at the home, is the courier company leaves the products on the door and the passer will steal it when see the products at the outside of door. In addition, what if the shipping company is broke our products and we are realizing it after opening the products when the courier man has already gone away. Then, when we are doing the feedback to the seller, the seller might claim that is our broking it and cannot make the amends. 6.3.4 Online Security The last disadvantages of the online purchase are online security. During the recent survey showed that the majority of the online shoppers were not aware of the various phishing scams, hacker attacks, and how it will affected to them. Furthermore, we are making the payments through online is usually safe but not always. There may have some of the e-commerce website are not secure because they do not encrypt our personal credit card data, so if the hacker is breaks their system, our personal data will be compromised. 7.0 Conclusion of Question 2: In the conclusion, there are many advantages and disadvantages of the online purchasing. The introduction of the e-commerce give the convenience to the people such as people can purchase the products that needs through online and no need to go to the physical shop and this help the people save for their time to do other important work. On the contrary, the convenience of the e-commerce maybe will make the people become lazy because they always dependent to the e-commerce website and dont want go out to the physical shop. So that, if you think the e-commerce give you more advantages, then it will good for you.

Telescope :: science

Telescope Light and other kinds of electromagnetic radiation coming from the universe outside the Earth must travel enormous distances through space and time to reach observers. Only the brightest and nearest stars can be seen with the unaided eye. To see farther and to clarify and measure what is seen, a telescope is needed. The word telescope is derived from the Greek words tele, "from afar," and skopos, "viewer." Even a simple homemade telescope can clearly show Saturn's rings, Jupiter's bands and red spot, stars, nebulae, and nearby galaxies not visible to the unaided eye. The ability to study the distant planets and other structures in the universe with these powerful yet remarkably simple instruments has revolutionized mankind's understanding of the natural world. All telescopes gather radiation from distant objects over a large area and focus it, thereby increasing the intensity of the radiation and allowing the objects to be magnified. Sophisticated telescopes are used to view radiation in all parts of the electromagnetic spectrum from long-wave radiation and radio waves to infrared radiation and light and much shorter wave radiation, including ultraviolet and X rays. This radiation travels through space at the speed of light in the form of waves of electric and magnetic fields. Because of its basic similarity, all such radiation can be focused by reflecting it off a curved surface or by refracting, or bending, it with glass lenses. The devices that are used to do this, however, vary, depending on the wavelength or type of radiation being studied. Optical Telescopes The first telescope developed, and the one most widely used, is the optical telescope, which gathers visible light radiation. There are three basic types of optical telescopes: refractors that use lenses, reflectors that use mirrors, and catadioptrics that use a combination of both lenses and mirrors. The refracting telescope has a closed tube. At one end of the tube is the object glass, usually made of two or more lenses, that admits light emanating from the object observed. The light rays are refracted by the lenses to a point of focus at the lower end of the tube where the eyepiece is located. The eyepiece acts as a magnifying glass and enlarges the bright image. An observer can view objects through the eyepiece or attach a camera to the telescope to record images. The reflecting telescope focuses light rays with a large curved concave mirror that is generally made of glass covered with a thin coating of aluminum.

Feminism in Tom Robbins’ Even Cowgirls Get the Blues :: Even Cowgirls Get Blues

Feminism in Tom Robbins’ Even Cowgirls Get the Blues In the novel, Even Cowgirls Get the Blues by Tom Robbins, Sissy Hankshaw is a young woman who gets introduced to the world via hitchhiking. From the beginning of the novel, Sissy’s sexuality is foreshadowed. She goes with her mother to see a psychic, Madame Zoe. When asked if Sissy will ever get married, Madame Zoe replies, "There is most clearly a marriage. A husband, no doubt about it, though he is years away†¦There are children, too. Five, maybe six. But the husband is not the father. They will inherit your characteristics" (Robbins 33). There is also a lot of defying of traditional gender roles in this novel. Sissy hitchhikes all over the eastern United States by herself. Her self-reliance and determination was previously thought to be more of a male characteristic. Along these lines it is also relevant to use Feminist Literary Criticism to assess this novel. Even Cowgirls Get the Blues and its main character, Sissy Hankshaw epitomize the change in women and sex roles in the late 1960s and 1970s. First of all, this novel can be looked at as representative of the sexual revolution in the 1970s. According to Linda Grant, author of Sexing the Millenium, up until the mid-1960s, single women had a difficult time obtaining birth control and were given the responsibility of remaining virgins until they consummated a marriage. Abortion and homosexuality were not only illegal, but were taboo topics of discussion. Furthermore, a number of women were trapped in loveless marriages due to strict divorce laws (2). Lillian B. Rubin, author of Erotic Wars, describes the beginnings of the Sexual Revolution: Then came the sixties and the sexual revolution. The restraints against sexual intercourse for unmarried women gave way as the Pill [oral contraceptive] finally freed them from the fear of unwanted pregnancy. Seduction became abbreviated and compressed, oftentimes bypassed altogether, as women, reveling in their newfound liberation, sought the sexual freedom that had for so long been ‘for men only.’ The assumption of the era was that she wanted sex as much as he did, the only question being whether or not they wanted to do it with each other. Young people lived together openly, parading their sexuality before their parents’ outraged and bewildered gaze (13). She goes on to report about an interview with a 15-year-old boy who says, "I guess sex was originally to produce another body; then I guess it was for love; nowadays it’s just for feeling good" (13).

Footnote to Youth Essay

A. PLOT Dodong wanted to marry Teang and asked his father’s permission. Thinking that since they are young, their love would be short, he allowed them to get married. After nine months, Teang gave birth to a child named Blas. For six consecutive years, a new child came along. Teang did not complain even thought she secretly regretted being married at an early age. Sometimes she even wondered if she would have the same life if Lucio, her other suitor who was nine years older than Dodong, was the one she married. Lucio has had no children since the time he married. When Teang and Dodong were twenty they looked like they were fifty. When Blas was 18, he told his father that he would marry Tona. Dodong did not object, but tried to make Blas think twice before rushing to marriage – because Dodong doesn’t want Blas to end up like him. It simply tells the story of an older person who made a mistake in the past who ended up with a not so pleasurable life. Then he had a son who is like him when he was young. His son is hasty in making the decision to get married, just like he was when he was 17. Despite this, Dodong did not – and could not – stop Blas from marrying Tona. Therefore, he didn’t object. Instead, he just reminded him that Blas is still very young and might as well think twice before rushing to marriage. But, as the ending goes: â€Å"Youth must triumph†¦ now. Love must triumph†¦ now. As long ago did youth and love triumphed for Dodong. And then†¦ life. B. Lessons I Learned: 1. It is always easy to get married but is never easy having a big responsibility. So, one must always think, not only twice but more times, to really understand what he/she will be encountering or simply, to think it over and consider the future before making up your mind. 2. Marriage is something that is taken seriously. Because marriage aside from being a sacrament is something that is full of responsibilities, when you decide to get married and you do marry someone, there is no turning back. To the youth, there is lots of things that should be taken into consideration before marrying of course including their readiness to take the responsibilities of raising a family and being able to respond to their needs. Because marriage is not a move that they can cancel when they feel like doing so. 3. Parents must guide their children. As they are still a child teach them the right things to do. Parents must not let their child to do the same bad things that they have done in their past. 4. Do not let things pass so fast. Everything we wanted most will come right on time, thus, creating greater fulfilment and contentment in life. Meaning, what life may offer is too different from what we want in a rush. C. Questions: 1. In what way does the title suitable to the story? 2. What the carabao represent dodong life in the story of footnote to youth? 3. How does Jose Garcia Villa describe the youth in the story of footnote to youth?

Republic Day

Dear brothers and sisters, India celebrates our 63nd Republic Day which is one of three national days in India. Commonly 63rd Republic Day is a public holiday in most of the countries to honor the day on which the country first became republics. In such some are Commonwealth countries, the British sovereign was ruling the state until the change of status. Even though India obtained freedom on August 15, 1947, Indian Constitution implemented and came into effect only on January 26, 1950. King George VI, the last and only â€Å"King† of the modern India, was leading our state during the evolution period from 1947 to 1950. Lord Mountbatten and C. Rajagopalachari were serving as the Governors-General of India at that time. Afterwards Rajendra Prasad was elected as the first president of India on January 26, 1950. With this the Parliament officially approved the Constitution of India and declared itself as a â€Å"Republic† on January 26, 1950, a date thereafter celebrated every year as Republic Day in India. The Constitution had been prepared by the Constituent Assembly based upon India is becoming the liberal from the British rulers in 1947. So we can consider 26th of January was initially India's â€Å"Independence Day†. As everybody know Mahatma Gandhi, the father of nation, had taken a lot of efforts to get freedom for India by many symbolic acts during India's Freedom Struggle against the British colonial rule. Acceptation of the Constitution on January 26, had given an extra strength to Country that has obtained liberty from the British Raj on August 15, 1947. There are two other annual national holidays in India apart from Republic day. One is Independence Day on August 15, 1947 and other one is birthday of Mohandas K Gandhi or Mahatma Gandhi on October 2. Lets talk about India Republic Day celebration official celebration in New Delhi. According to he Republic Day celebration on January 26th every year a grand parade is held in New Delhi, the Capital of India, beginning from Raisina Hill near the Presidential Palace Rashtrapati Bhavan, along the Rajpath, past India Gate and on to the historic Red Fort in the heart of the city to honor this occasion. Defence forces of state, Indian Army force, t he Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force performs the past in parade with their ceremonial dress and official decorations on this auspicious occasion of Republic Day. The President of India, who is also the Commander in Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, takes the salute from the parade. There will be an invited Head of State of another nation as Chief Guest of the parade which is the highlights of Republic Day celebrations. The Republic day parade also involves many customary dance groups, to signify the cultural legacy of India. At the end of parade Air Force jets perform a colourful flypast by in a tiranga formation which is adventurous and eye-catching at a time. Similar celebrations with such parades are held in the capitals of all the states of India on the Republic day. The Governor of the each state takes the salute in their respective celebrations. More over all official government offices will also celebrate this national day which is also considered as people's day. At the beginning of parade on Republic day, the Prime Minister of India wears a wreath at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate, honoring all the jawans who missed their worth lives for the country in the war. Then he address the public and give Republic day message in his Republic day speech. Next to this the President comes in his motorcade with the escorts of his bodyguards. Foreign Head of State – who is the Chief Guest at the celebration will follow the President in the Republic day Parade. Once finish this salutation, a 21 gun salute is presented, the President unfurls the National Flag and the National Anthem is performed. This regards the beginning of the parade. The Republic day Parade commences with winners of bravery awards passing the President in open jeeps. Then all of the Armed Forces of India divisions salute the President of India. The Republic parade also sees the Indian Military exhibiting its latest acquirements such as tanks, missiles, radars, etc. There are also considerable parades from the various departments Police contingents, Home guards , Civil Defence and the National Cadet Corps. A colorful cultural parade will follow the military parade. In this cultural parade India's wealthy cultural tradition is displayed with tableaux from various states. Each state represents its distinctive festivals, historical locations and art forms. The next will be the ride past of children, who have won national bravery award winners at last year, on elephants. School-children from all over the country also take part in the parade on the republic Day. The most adventurous item is the next one, displays of skillful motor-cycle riding, usually by Armed Forces. Following this the fly past of Indian Air Force salutes the president symbolically by fight planes. The republic Day celebration will not be end in one day. The official closing ceremony of Republic Day festivities will be held on the third day evening of January 29 after Republic Day. This is renowned as Beating the Retreat. On this occasion of this Republic Day we should stick with our own pledge for our Bharatha Matha to save the country and ourselves. The Republic day pledge should be against terrorism and corruption and we should stand for honesty which is taught by Mahatma Ghandi, father of the country. Also our leaders must be corruption free and alert to threats those we are facing from the countries like Pakistan, China and US. Unlike the US, Pakistan and China have been aggressive ups and downs in India's relationship with them. Therefore Leaders in Indian Government must attempt with effective discussions to eliminate the issues which are threatening India recently. India should not come again in the situation like attacks to Mumbai, Indian most commercial City. Let's dream and hope for corruption free and other threats free peaceful India in upcoming years and contribute from our side. Republic Day â€Å"No Hindu, No Muslim, No Christian, We are just Indian. † Respected judges, respected teachers and dear audience. Today we gather here to celebrate one of the National festivals of India, it is Republic day. It is a great opportunities for me, as you allowed me to share few words on this occasion. On this day, it was January 26, 1950 we declared our country as a Republic country by adopting our own constitution. Actually, the preparation of our constitution was over earlier than this date but we choose January 26 for this, because this date has its own significance earlier than this day. It was January 26, 1930 on the bank of river Ravi, our freedom fighters pledged to attain â€Å"Sampurna Swaraj† and started new agitations to make India freedom from the British Rule. So, on 1950 on this day we declared our India as a Sovereign, Democratic and Republic. As this festival is related to our nation, it is celebrated all over our country. It celebrated in schools, colleges, government and non government offices and industries. It becomes a public festival as every Indian celebrates it. On the eve of this day, our honourable President gives a message to the nation. In his/her message he/she analyses the achievements of government and gives indications towards the future plans of the government towards the welfare of our country. All over the country people celebrates this festival. In national capital Delhi, there is a grand celebration. People from every corner of the country come here to participate in the grand Republic day celebration. The grand celebration occurs at the India Gate and Rajpath of New Delhi. The entire route is decorated with our national flags. Many foreign delegates also come to witness India's progress on this occasion. At the beginning of the celebration, our Prime Minister salutes the martyrs of soldiers who laid their life lives for our country on Amar Jawan Jyothi, at the India Gate. Then he moves towards the celebration point. Then our President comes to the celebration point who is welcomed by our Prime Minister. All the commanders of three wings, Air Force, Army and Navy come to participate in the grand celebration. After this, flag hosting happens by our president and as soon as it completes we give a grand salute to our national flag by singing â€Å"Jana Gana Mana†¦. â€Å". Then the award ceremony starts, our president gives valuable awards for those who sacrificed their life in different situations for our country and countrymen. Even some kids also selected for bravery awards for this occasion, who showed their braveness while miserable conditions. Then the grand parade starts from the Vijay Chowk by all different wings, such as Army, Navy, Air force, Paramilitary forces, NCC, Tanks, Anti aircraft missiles, radars etc. Then a cultural program is organized by school children. After this dance program, tableaux from different states and national territories move on the route to show their culture and progress to the world. At the final stage aircrafts of Indian Air Force shows their talents in the sky. They send a message to the world that sky also in their limit. Overall, I can say it is not only the day of celebration but also the day to remember those great lives who sacrificed everything for this country. We should take a resolution to work for our country and its progress. So, at the end I want to say one thing that, we may from different region or religion but we are one, only one Indian. So, think about this country before thinking about your religion or region. Jai Hind. Republic Day Republic Day Speech 2009 Ladies & Gentlemen! My heartiest felicitations to you on the occasion of 60th Republic Day! This is a sacred day for each one of us, when we come together to pay tribute to the freedom fighters and martyrs who laid down their lives for the sake of the independence and sovereignty of our nation. Today we remember the extraordinary contribution of all those, who have toiled to build a free and modern India. Chandigarh, in itself is a Mini India symbolizing a truly dynamic City, with a success story of growth and development, achieved through public partnerships.The Administration has made great strides in every field, with a special emphasis on ensuring social justice, safe and secure environment, high quality civic life and equal opportunities for everyone to grow. Adding another milestone, the City has become the first Plastic Free city after becoming the first Smoke Free City of the country. Various mega projects including Le Corbusier Center, Education City , Modern Terminal Market, Housing project for Slum Dwellers, Warehousing project, Milk Village etc. are in the pipeline.The upcoming Chandigarh International Airport will further boost the stature of Chandigarh at the national and international level. The Administration is dedicated to provide proper facilities to disadvantaged sections, senior citizens, economically weaker sections and has undertaken various schemes. Two landmark projects namely AASHA KIRAN – A vocational training Centre for differently abled and AASHREYA – A home where the mentally challenged, would learn and live with comfort and dignity, have been launched.Both these prestigious projects focus on empowerment and creation of an ‘Inclusive & Barrier- Free Society’ with an aim of securing all rights of disabled persons in a practical way. The first phase of the Street Children Home & Vocational Training Center at Village Maloya, a project set up of Rs. 7. 40 crore has already started. The second phase would be functional soon which will accommodate 300 street girls for empowering them. The Tourism Industry in the city has witnessed paradigm shift consequent to various initiatives taken by the Chandigarh Administration.Chandigarh Tourism has won Today’s Traveller Platinum Award for the most Responsible Tourism Plan of 2008. Efforts are being made by the Administration for getting the name of the city in UNESCO’s permanent World Heritage List. In order to pay homage to the creator of Chandigarh and great French Architect Le Corbusier, the Le Corbusier Centre has been launched in Sector 19. The Center showcases and exhibits the multifaceted life and works of Le Corbusier, to acquaint future generations with the rich cultural heritage of the city.Apart from organizing cultural events pertaining to the region, the Administration has also organized cultural events of other states. A major initiative was ‘Poompoohar 2008’ which was jointly organi zed by the Chandigarh Administration and the Tamilnadu Government. The Health and Family Welfare of the residents is always paramount. The first phase of the Regional Center for Mentally Handicapped in Sector 31 will be operational shortly providing comprehensive training and education to at least 1000 mentally challenged children.Facilities like diagnostic and medical care, training, counseling for the prevention of disability and training facility for the parents and guardians of the mentally challenged children will be made available. New facilities of Bronchoscopy and Computed Radiography System have been installed at Government Multi Specialty Hospital, Sector-16. Trauma Unit with emergency operation theatres has also been added in the GMSH 16. In order to provide assistance to the people residing in the backward areas of the city, Health Melas are being organized from time to time.The commitment to provide good facilities and infrastructure for health is being further reinforc ed by major infrastructural additions. The Administration is building a new OPD Block which will cost around Rs. 8. 46 crores, in the Govt. Multi Speciality Hospital, Sector 16. In addition, the work to have a new E-block, which will cost more than Rs. 23. 00 Crores, has already started in the GMCH-32. In the coming year the Administration also proposes to create additional infrastructures for various dispensaries, polyclinics and health facilities.The issue of Education has always remained at the top of the Administration’s priority list. With the incessant efforts made by the Administration the decks are finally cleared, for setting up the Education City, at Sarangpur Institution Area, with the signing of 9 MoUs with the Chandigarh Administration. We have further strengthened the Sarv Shiksha Abhiyan and expanded the Mid Day Meal Programme up to the upper primary level. We are also establishing new techniques to build high quality model Schools. Special emphasis is being la id on the Placement Cell in each college for curbing unemployment.The Chandigarh Administration has taken initiatives for promoting Chandigarh as a Knowledge City and has received huge investments from various IT Companies. The Rajiv Gandhi Chandigarh Technology Park (RGCTP) once completed will create more than 60000 IT jobs. Already, more than 8000 IT professionals are working in the RGCTP. I am happy to inform you that this year till November 2008, the software exports from RGCTP alone have crossed Rs. 400 Crores. Infosys has completed its second software development block and Tech Mahindra and Bharti Airtel are expected to operationalise their Centres by April 2009.Similarly most of the BTS sites are also under development. As a part of e-Governance initiatives, the Department Information Technology has made technology available at grass root level through Sampark Centers and e-Gram Sampark Centers. As many as 27 varied Public Utility Services are being provided from 10 e-Sampark Centers in different parts of the city and 13 e- Gram Sampark Centers spread across the villages of Union Territory. These centers have given major relief to the rural people by providing one stop solution centers in their neighborhood.In order to ensure transparency in its delivery mechanism, the Department of Food & Civil Supplies has initiated the process of a smart card based Public Distribution System. The Detailed Project Report has been approved by the Government of India and the process of selection of the partner is in process. The Administration has dedicated two major projects to the residents of the city including the Beant Singh Memorial & Center for Performing and Visual Arts and a New Lake in Sector 42. These two projects, have given city residents a major fillip, especially those residing in the Southern Sectors.With the reopening of the spruced up Tagore Theatre costing about Rs. 9 crore the city will witness more and more cultural activities. Though we have limite d villages in U. T. of Chandigarh, it is a commitment of the Administration to provide city like facilities in the villages. While drinking water facility, sewerage, storm water have already been extended to the villages, in the next financial year the Administration proposes to provide city-like street lights and start shifting from tube-well-based water supply to canal-based water supply for the villages.Plans in this regard are already being prepared. Those villages which have come within the MC limit, have also been planned by the Municipal Corporation for up-gradation of all types of infrastructure including roads, street lights, water supply, storm water community centers, parks etc. We have all faced the problem of increasing traffic day-by-day in Chandigarh. The Administration, being conscious of this fact, has taken initiative to improve the roads. On this we will spend Rs. 26 crores on improving the existing roads, on widening and four-laning of roads of Chandigarh and als o on route No. for Panchkula from Dakshin Marg, which is likely to be operational by May 2009. This has been a long pending demand of the residents of City which, I am glad, is being fulfilled. The residents of the city have been clamouring for large number of changes in the building rules of Chandigarh. After due deliberations with different stake holders and after a long time, the Chandigarh Administration has made larger number of people friendly and need based amendments in the building rules, which I am glad, will go a long way in meeting the day-to-day requirements of the people of Chandigarh.In addition, various processes for clearance of building plans etc. are also being streamlined so that people do not face any problem. The Sports infrastructure of the city is among the best in the country. Lately, the opportunity given to the UT Administration for holding the â€Å"54th National School Games 2008-09†, a Sports extravaganza, with more than 31 states and UTs partici pating has proven that the city possess State-of-the-art sports infrastructure required for hosting such National Events.The credit for this goes to the Sports Department which has been striving for not just creating world class infrastructure but also maintaining it. Soon, Floodlights would be installed at Cricket Stadium, Sector 16 and a new Astroturf Hockey Stadium and a New Basketball Court at Sector 42 would also be set up. The City Beautiful has an edge over entire nation as the young shooter Abhinav Bindra, brought laurels to the country by winning the first ever Olympic Gold in an Individual category. The Administration has taken up major initiatives in making Chandigarh a Slum Free City.The Chandigarh Housing Board will provide housing to 25,728 slum dwelling families thus making the city beautiful a Slum Free city. The Administration is also conscious of the housing needs of its citizens and as such plans have been made by the Board to provide more than 13000 houses in the UT. The implementation of providing more houses has already started with 2200 dwelling units of different categories already under construction. Keeping in view the recent advancements in the technology and the imperative need for conserving scarce natural resources, CHB plans to go in for construction of Green & Intelligent Buildings.It is through our consistent efforts that the City Beautiful is known as the Green City of India. The Green cover of Chandigarh is 35. 7% of its total geographical area. The Botanical Garden has been developed over 176 acres and has the rarest medicinal plants, apart from being a walker’s paradise. The Department is also in the process of establishment of a world class aquarium. In order to contain pollution and encourage clean fuel in the city, the UT Administration has started a drive to replace the existing Auto Rickshaws with LPG driven Auto Rickshaws.The Chandigarh Police is among the most organized and Tech Savvy in the country. As per th e recent survey conducted by one of the leading national magazine, Chandigarh has been rated as one of the top performing UT in handling law & order. Keeping in view the need for cyber security, a Cyber Crime Investigation Cell has been established. In order to provide security to the tourists in the city, Tourism Police has been launched in the city with the combine efforts of the Department of Tourism and Chandigarh Police.On the auspicious day, I on behalf of Chandigarh Administration convey heartfelt sympathies to the victims of the Mumbai terror attacks. Such unfortunate incidents are cowardly acts and will never shake the faith of the nation. The country will forge towards development and growth and deal with these elements with an iron hand. On this momentous occasion, I once again call upon all of you, for an active participation and contribute to the progress and prosperity of the city and the nation as a whole. I, once again, convey my heartfelt wishes to you all on this a uspicious day. Jai Hind! Republic Day Republic Day Speech 2009 Ladies & Gentlemen! My heartiest felicitations to you on the occasion of 60th Republic Day! This is a sacred day for each one of us, when we come together to pay tribute to the freedom fighters and martyrs who laid down their lives for the sake of the independence and sovereignty of our nation. Today we remember the extraordinary contribution of all those, who have toiled to build a free and modern India. Chandigarh, in itself is a Mini India symbolizing a truly dynamic City, with a success story of growth and development, achieved through public partnerships.The Administration has made great strides in every field, with a special emphasis on ensuring social justice, safe and secure environment, high quality civic life and equal opportunities for everyone to grow. Adding another milestone, the City has become the first Plastic Free city after becoming the first Smoke Free City of the country. Various mega projects including Le Corbusier Center, Education City , Modern Terminal Market, Housing project for Slum Dwellers, Warehousing project, Milk Village etc. are in the pipeline.The upcoming Chandigarh International Airport will further boost the stature of Chandigarh at the national and international level. The Administration is dedicated to provide proper facilities to disadvantaged sections, senior citizens, economically weaker sections and has undertaken various schemes. Two landmark projects namely AASHA KIRAN – A vocational training Centre for differently abled and AASHREYA – A home where the mentally challenged, would learn and live with comfort and dignity, have been launched.Both these prestigious projects focus on empowerment and creation of an ‘Inclusive & Barrier- Free Society’ with an aim of securing all rights of disabled persons in a practical way. The first phase of the Street Children Home & Vocational Training Center at Village Maloya, a project set up of Rs. 7. 40 crore has already started. The second phase would be functional soon which will accommodate 300 street girls for empowering them. The Tourism Industry in the city has witnessed paradigm shift consequent to various initiatives taken by the Chandigarh Administration.Chandigarh Tourism has won Today’s Traveller Platinum Award for the most Responsible Tourism Plan of 2008. Efforts are being made by the Administration for getting the name of the city in UNESCO’s permanent World Heritage List. In order to pay homage to the creator of Chandigarh and great French Architect Le Corbusier, the Le Corbusier Centre has been launched in Sector 19. The Center showcases and exhibits the multifaceted life and works of Le Corbusier, to acquaint future generations with the rich cultural heritage of the city.Apart from organizing cultural events pertaining to the region, the Administration has also organized cultural events of other states. A major initiative was ‘Poompoohar 2008’ which was jointly organi zed by the Chandigarh Administration and the Tamilnadu Government. The Health and Family Welfare of the residents is always paramount. The first phase of the Regional Center for Mentally Handicapped in Sector 31 will be operational shortly providing comprehensive training and education to at least 1000 mentally challenged children.Facilities like diagnostic and medical care, training, counseling for the prevention of disability and training facility for the parents and guardians of the mentally challenged children will be made available. New facilities of Bronchoscopy and Computed Radiography System have been installed at Government Multi Specialty Hospital, Sector-16. Trauma Unit with emergency operation theatres has also been added in the GMSH 16. In order to provide assistance to the people residing in the backward areas of the city, Health Melas are being organized from time to time.The commitment to provide good facilities and infrastructure for health is being further reinforc ed by major infrastructural additions. The Administration is building a new OPD Block which will cost around Rs. 8. 46 crores, in the Govt. Multi Speciality Hospital, Sector 16. In addition, the work to have a new E-block, which will cost more than Rs. 23. 00 Crores, has already started in the GMCH-32. In the coming year the Administration also proposes to create additional infrastructures for various dispensaries, polyclinics and health facilities.The issue of Education has always remained at the top of the Administration’s priority list. With the incessant efforts made by the Administration the decks are finally cleared, for setting up the Education City, at Sarangpur Institution Area, with the signing of 9 MoUs with the Chandigarh Administration. We have further strengthened the Sarv Shiksha Abhiyan and expanded the Mid Day Meal Programme up to the upper primary level. We are also establishing new techniques to build high quality model Schools. Special emphasis is being la id on the Placement Cell in each college for curbing unemployment.The Chandigarh Administration has taken initiatives for promoting Chandigarh as a Knowledge City and has received huge investments from various IT Companies. The Rajiv Gandhi Chandigarh Technology Park (RGCTP) once completed will create more than 60000 IT jobs. Already, more than 8000 IT professionals are working in the RGCTP. I am happy to inform you that this year till November 2008, the software exports from RGCTP alone have crossed Rs. 400 Crores. Infosys has completed its second software development block and Tech Mahindra and Bharti Airtel are expected to operationalise their Centres by April 2009.Similarly most of the BTS sites are also under development. As a part of e-Governance initiatives, the Department Information Technology has made technology available at grass root level through Sampark Centers and e-Gram Sampark Centers. As many as 27 varied Public Utility Services are being provided from 10 e-Sampark Centers in different parts of the city and 13 e- Gram Sampark Centers spread across the villages of Union Territory. These centers have given major relief to the rural people by providing one stop solution centers in their neighborhood.In order to ensure transparency in its delivery mechanism, the Department of Food & Civil Supplies has initiated the process of a smart card based Public Distribution System. The Detailed Project Report has been approved by the Government of India and the process of selection of the partner is in process. The Administration has dedicated two major projects to the residents of the city including the Beant Singh Memorial & Center for Performing and Visual Arts and a New Lake in Sector 42. These two projects, have given city residents a major fillip, especially those residing in the Southern Sectors.With the reopening of the spruced up Tagore Theatre costing about Rs. 9 crore the city will witness more and more cultural activities. Though we have limite d villages in U. T. of Chandigarh, it is a commitment of the Administration to provide city like facilities in the villages. While drinking water facility, sewerage, storm water have already been extended to the villages, in the next financial year the Administration proposes to provide city-like street lights and start shifting from tube-well-based water supply to canal-based water supply for the villages.Plans in this regard are already being prepared. Those villages which have come within the MC limit, have also been planned by the Municipal Corporation for up-gradation of all types of infrastructure including roads, street lights, water supply, storm water community centers, parks etc. We have all faced the problem of increasing traffic day-by-day in Chandigarh. The Administration, being conscious of this fact, has taken initiative to improve the roads. On this we will spend Rs. 26 crores on improving the existing roads, on widening and four-laning of roads of Chandigarh and als o on route No. for Panchkula from Dakshin Marg, which is likely to be operational by May 2009. This has been a long pending demand of the residents of City which, I am glad, is being fulfilled. The residents of the city have been clamouring for large number of changes in the building rules of Chandigarh. After due deliberations with different stake holders and after a long time, the Chandigarh Administration has made larger number of people friendly and need based amendments in the building rules, which I am glad, will go a long way in meeting the day-to-day requirements of the people of Chandigarh.In addition, various processes for clearance of building plans etc. are also being streamlined so that people do not face any problem. The Sports infrastructure of the city is among the best in the country. Lately, the opportunity given to the UT Administration for holding the â€Å"54th National School Games 2008-09†, a Sports extravaganza, with more than 31 states and UTs partici pating has proven that the city possess State-of-the-art sports infrastructure required for hosting such National Events.The credit for this goes to the Sports Department which has been striving for not just creating world class infrastructure but also maintaining it. Soon, Floodlights would be installed at Cricket Stadium, Sector 16 and a new Astroturf Hockey Stadium and a New Basketball Court at Sector 42 would also be set up. The City Beautiful has an edge over entire nation as the young shooter Abhinav Bindra, brought laurels to the country by winning the first ever Olympic Gold in an Individual category. The Administration has taken up major initiatives in making Chandigarh a Slum Free City.The Chandigarh Housing Board will provide housing to 25,728 slum dwelling families thus making the city beautiful a Slum Free city. The Administration is also conscious of the housing needs of its citizens and as such plans have been made by the Board to provide more than 13000 houses in the UT. The implementation of providing more houses has already started with 2200 dwelling units of different categories already under construction. Keeping in view the recent advancements in the technology and the imperative need for conserving scarce natural resources, CHB plans to go in for construction of Green & Intelligent Buildings.It is through our consistent efforts that the City Beautiful is known as the Green City of India. The Green cover of Chandigarh is 35. 7% of its total geographical area. The Botanical Garden has been developed over 176 acres and has the rarest medicinal plants, apart from being a walker’s paradise. The Department is also in the process of establishment of a world class aquarium. In order to contain pollution and encourage clean fuel in the city, the UT Administration has started a drive to replace the existing Auto Rickshaws with LPG driven Auto Rickshaws.The Chandigarh Police is among the most organized and Tech Savvy in the country. As per th e recent survey conducted by one of the leading national magazine, Chandigarh has been rated as one of the top performing UT in handling law & order. Keeping in view the need for cyber security, a Cyber Crime Investigation Cell has been established. In order to provide security to the tourists in the city, Tourism Police has been launched in the city with the combine efforts of the Department of Tourism and Chandigarh Police.On the auspicious day, I on behalf of Chandigarh Administration convey heartfelt sympathies to the victims of the Mumbai terror attacks. Such unfortunate incidents are cowardly acts and will never shake the faith of the nation. The country will forge towards development and growth and deal with these elements with an iron hand. On this momentous occasion, I once again call upon all of you, for an active participation and contribute to the progress and prosperity of the city and the nation as a whole. I, once again, convey my heartfelt wishes to you all on this a uspicious day. Jai Hind! Republic Day Republic Day Speech 2009 Ladies & Gentlemen! My heartiest felicitations to you on the occasion of 60th Republic Day! This is a sacred day for each one of us, when we come together to pay tribute to the freedom fighters and martyrs who laid down their lives for the sake of the independence and sovereignty of our nation. Today we remember the extraordinary contribution of all those, who have toiled to build a free and modern India. Chandigarh, in itself is a Mini India symbolizing a truly dynamic City, with a success story of growth and development, achieved through public partnerships.The Administration has made great strides in every field, with a special emphasis on ensuring social justice, safe and secure environment, high quality civic life and equal opportunities for everyone to grow. Adding another milestone, the City has become the first Plastic Free city after becoming the first Smoke Free City of the country. Various mega projects including Le Corbusier Center, Education City , Modern Terminal Market, Housing project for Slum Dwellers, Warehousing project, Milk Village etc. are in the pipeline.The upcoming Chandigarh International Airport will further boost the stature of Chandigarh at the national and international level. The Administration is dedicated to provide proper facilities to disadvantaged sections, senior citizens, economically weaker sections and has undertaken various schemes. Two landmark projects namely AASHA KIRAN – A vocational training Centre for differently abled and AASHREYA – A home where the mentally challenged, would learn and live with comfort and dignity, have been launched.Both these prestigious projects focus on empowerment and creation of an ‘Inclusive & Barrier- Free Society’ with an aim of securing all rights of disabled persons in a practical way. The first phase of the Street Children Home & Vocational Training Center at Village Maloya, a project set up of Rs. 7. 40 crore has already started. The second phase would be functional soon which will accommodate 300 street girls for empowering them. The Tourism Industry in the city has witnessed paradigm shift consequent to various initiatives taken by the Chandigarh Administration.Chandigarh Tourism has won Today’s Traveller Platinum Award for the most Responsible Tourism Plan of 2008. Efforts are being made by the Administration for getting the name of the city in UNESCO’s permanent World Heritage List. In order to pay homage to the creator of Chandigarh and great French Architect Le Corbusier, the Le Corbusier Centre has been launched in Sector 19. The Center showcases and exhibits the multifaceted life and works of Le Corbusier, to acquaint future generations with the rich cultural heritage of the city.Apart from organizing cultural events pertaining to the region, the Administration has also organized cultural events of other states. A major initiative was ‘Poompoohar 2008’ which was jointly organi zed by the Chandigarh Administration and the Tamilnadu Government. The Health and Family Welfare of the residents is always paramount. The first phase of the Regional Center for Mentally Handicapped in Sector 31 will be operational shortly providing comprehensive training and education to at least 1000 mentally challenged children.Facilities like diagnostic and medical care, training, counseling for the prevention of disability and training facility for the parents and guardians of the mentally challenged children will be made available. New facilities of Bronchoscopy and Computed Radiography System have been installed at Government Multi Specialty Hospital, Sector-16. Trauma Unit with emergency operation theatres has also been added in the GMSH 16. In order to provide assistance to the people residing in the backward areas of the city, Health Melas are being organized from time to time.The commitment to provide good facilities and infrastructure for health is being further reinforc ed by major infrastructural additions. The Administration is building a new OPD Block which will cost around Rs. 8. 46 crores, in the Govt. Multi Speciality Hospital, Sector 16. In addition, the work to have a new E-block, which will cost more than Rs. 23. 00 Crores, has already started in the GMCH-32. In the coming year the Administration also proposes to create additional infrastructures for various dispensaries, polyclinics and health facilities.The issue of Education has always remained at the top of the Administration’s priority list. With the incessant efforts made by the Administration the decks are finally cleared, for setting up the Education City, at Sarangpur Institution Area, with the signing of 9 MoUs with the Chandigarh Administration. We have further strengthened the Sarv Shiksha Abhiyan and expanded the Mid Day Meal Programme up to the upper primary level. We are also establishing new techniques to build high quality model Schools. Special emphasis is being la id on the Placement Cell in each college for curbing unemployment.The Chandigarh Administration has taken initiatives for promoting Chandigarh as a Knowledge City and has received huge investments from various IT Companies. The Rajiv Gandhi Chandigarh Technology Park (RGCTP) once completed will create more than 60000 IT jobs. Already, more than 8000 IT professionals are working in the RGCTP. I am happy to inform you that this year till November 2008, the software exports from RGCTP alone have crossed Rs. 400 Crores. Infosys has completed its second software development block and Tech Mahindra and Bharti Airtel are expected to operationalise their Centres by April 2009.Similarly most of the BTS sites are also under development. As a part of e-Governance initiatives, the Department Information Technology has made technology available at grass root level through Sampark Centers and e-Gram Sampark Centers. As many as 27 varied Public Utility Services are being provided from 10 e-Sampark Centers in different parts of the city and 13 e- Gram Sampark Centers spread across the villages of Union Territory. These centers have given major relief to the rural people by providing one stop solution centers in their neighborhood.In order to ensure transparency in its delivery mechanism, the Department of Food & Civil Supplies has initiated the process of a smart card based Public Distribution System. The Detailed Project Report has been approved by the Government of India and the process of selection of the partner is in process. The Administration has dedicated two major projects to the residents of the city including the Beant Singh Memorial & Center for Performing and Visual Arts and a New Lake in Sector 42. These two projects, have given city residents a major fillip, especially those residing in the Southern Sectors.With the reopening of the spruced up Tagore Theatre costing about Rs. 9 crore the city will witness more and more cultural activities. Though we have limite d villages in U. T. of Chandigarh, it is a commitment of the Administration to provide city like facilities in the villages. While drinking water facility, sewerage, storm water have already been extended to the villages, in the next financial year the Administration proposes to provide city-like street lights and start shifting from tube-well-based water supply to canal-based water supply for the villages.Plans in this regard are already being prepared. Those villages which have come within the MC limit, have also been planned by the Municipal Corporation for up-gradation of all types of infrastructure including roads, street lights, water supply, storm water community centers, parks etc. We have all faced the problem of increasing traffic day-by-day in Chandigarh. The Administration, being conscious of this fact, has taken initiative to improve the roads. On this we will spend Rs. 26 crores on improving the existing roads, on widening and four-laning of roads of Chandigarh and als o on route No. for Panchkula from Dakshin Marg, which is likely to be operational by May 2009. This has been a long pending demand of the residents of City which, I am glad, is being fulfilled. The residents of the city have been clamouring for large number of changes in the building rules of Chandigarh. After due deliberations with different stake holders and after a long time, the Chandigarh Administration has made larger number of people friendly and need based amendments in the building rules, which I am glad, will go a long way in meeting the day-to-day requirements of the people of Chandigarh.In addition, various processes for clearance of building plans etc. are also being streamlined so that people do not face any problem. The Sports infrastructure of the city is among the best in the country. Lately, the opportunity given to the UT Administration for holding the â€Å"54th National School Games 2008-09†, a Sports extravaganza, with more than 31 states and UTs partici pating has proven that the city possess State-of-the-art sports infrastructure required for hosting such National Events.The credit for this goes to the Sports Department which has been striving for not just creating world class infrastructure but also maintaining it. Soon, Floodlights would be installed at Cricket Stadium, Sector 16 and a new Astroturf Hockey Stadium and a New Basketball Court at Sector 42 would also be set up. The City Beautiful has an edge over entire nation as the young shooter Abhinav Bindra, brought laurels to the country by winning the first ever Olympic Gold in an Individual category. The Administration has taken up major initiatives in making Chandigarh a Slum Free City.The Chandigarh Housing Board will provide housing to 25,728 slum dwelling families thus making the city beautiful a Slum Free city. The Administration is also conscious of the housing needs of its citizens and as such plans have been made by the Board to provide more than 13000 houses in the UT. The implementation of providing more houses has already started with 2200 dwelling units of different categories already under construction. Keeping in view the recent advancements in the technology and the imperative need for conserving scarce natural resources, CHB plans to go in for construction of Green & Intelligent Buildings.It is through our consistent efforts that the City Beautiful is known as the Green City of India. The Green cover of Chandigarh is 35. 7% of its total geographical area. The Botanical Garden has been developed over 176 acres and has the rarest medicinal plants, apart from being a walker’s paradise. The Department is also in the process of establishment of a world class aquarium. In order to contain pollution and encourage clean fuel in the city, the UT Administration has started a drive to replace the existing Auto Rickshaws with LPG driven Auto Rickshaws.The Chandigarh Police is among the most organized and Tech Savvy in the country. As per th e recent survey conducted by one of the leading national magazine, Chandigarh has been rated as one of the top performing UT in handling law & order. Keeping in view the need for cyber security, a Cyber Crime Investigation Cell has been established. In order to provide security to the tourists in the city, Tourism Police has been launched in the city with the combine efforts of the Department of Tourism and Chandigarh Police.On the auspicious day, I on behalf of Chandigarh Administration convey heartfelt sympathies to the victims of the Mumbai terror attacks. Such unfortunate incidents are cowardly acts and will never shake the faith of the nation. The country will forge towards development and growth and deal with these elements with an iron hand. On this momentous occasion, I once again call upon all of you, for an active participation and contribute to the progress and prosperity of the city and the nation as a whole. I, once again, convey my heartfelt wishes to you all on this a uspicious day. Jai Hind!