In what is seen as his first media interview since the April uprising of 2006, King (!) Gyanendra has said that he has remained silent to let the peace process succeed.
In an interview to Hari Lamsal, Editor of Rastr
a Bani weekly, which was published on Wednesday, King Gyanendra is quoted as saying that he remained silent to make the peace process successful. Nepali people themselves should speak out on where the nation is heading, on the direction it is taking and on why it is becoming chaotic, the King is reported to have said.
King Gyanendra has also refuted that monarchy has ever sought power.
When asked why he did not speak out till now, the King said, "Silence is also (an) action.” “….There is a meaning in our silence. Those who have understood it (meaning) have understood it well. We think others are pretending not to have understood.”
In the interview, which has been published at a time when the interim parliament has amended the interim constitution declaring Nepal a federal republic, subject to endorsement by Constituent Assembly, the King has said that the monarchy predates the unification of Nepal itself.
He asked, where would we be today had the nation-builder Prithvi Narayan Shah not unified Nepal? King Gyanendra also said Nepal has such a large heart where every Nepali can find shelter. He also recalled his February 1, 2005 move – which prompted political parties to unite with the Maoists that ultimately forced the King to step down. He accepted that his move turned out to be a failure. Stating that the monarchy should never involve in politics, the King pointed out the need to strengthen relations between monarchy and democracy.
Editor Lamsal has said that he took the interview last Friday at the Narayanhiti Royal Palace. Although it was not a formal interview, Lamsal said, he took permission to publish the King's views at the end of his audience
Thursday, 31 January 2008
Silence is also (an) action: King Gyanendra
(we should analyse this interview and request political leaders to take action against him however in many places he is right but the intention of the interview is to disturb CA election)
Read more...
INTERVIEW WITH GERMAN NUDE TRAVEL ENTREPRENEUR
"No Groping or Hot Drinks Allowed on Naked Flight"
One day he thought up a clothes-optional flight, and the next day he was famous. Enrico Hess, the founder of the OssiUrlaub.de travel company, spoke to SPIEGEL ONLINE about the huge interest in his naked travel service, the special in-flight rules and his future offers for Germany's touring nudists. Mr. Hess (Photo: left) has started travel service experienceíng everything nude only. Not more than nudity and not less than it, just the middle is his motto.
SPIEGEL ONLINE: You've made headlines across the world for your naked flight idea. Did that surprise you?
Enrico Hess: I figured the idea would attract some attention, but we never would have thought that we would receive inquiries from France, Japan or New Zealand.
SPIEGEL ONLINE: How many solid bookings are there so far?
Hess: We plan to start taking bookings on Friday, but we're
already receiving non-binding requests every 10 to 15 minutes on our Web site's pre-booking application. We could already fill the first plane two or three times over, one of them just with the journalists who want to be on the flight.SPIEGEL ONLINE: What kinds of travellers have been contacting you? Are they older people, who have good memories of the FKK era in the former East Germany (GDR)? (FKK, or "free body culture," is a popular German naturalist movement promoting a clothes-free lifestyle.)
Hess: No, it goes across the board: young people, older people, people from both western and eastern Germany. No one type has predominated.
SPIEGEL ONLINE: Will you impose any particular behavior rules on the flight? Is groping allowed?
Hess: No, and I'd like to believe that that wouldn't really be an issue among genuine FKK fans. We regard it as being taken for granted that touching and ogling don't belong on an FKK vacation, just like they don't belong on the beach. Nor do we want it to be some airborne dating service.
SPIEGEL ONLINE: How did you come up with the idea?
Hess: It was about a year ago at a travel trade fair -- I think at Berlin's ITB. I was chatting with a guy at a hotel bar one night talking about FKK vacations and about how popular they were in the GDR. He gave me the idea. I'd love to thank him, but I can't remember his name.
SPIEGEL ONLINE: Did you ever go on a FKK vacation yourself back in the old days of the GDR?
Hess: No. It's true that I was born in the former East Germany, but I never had anything to do with the that. When I was a kid, I would always go to Usedom -- to Heringsdorf -- with my parents. But my parents weren't FKK fans, so I really wasn't one either.
SPIEGEL ONLINE: So, how expensive is the flight?
Hess: It costs €499 ($735), and I agree that that's a lot for a one-day trip. The issue is that the plane is really small and only has 50 seats. The price would decrease considerably if we used a bigger plane. We're considering switching the whole thing over to another, larger airline and offering regular naked flights.
SPIEGEL ONLINE: What makes the flight different from a normal airline flight?
Hess: There are a few basic rules. For example, no hot drinks will be served and there will be certain hygienic regulations. Passengers won't be sitting directly on the seats but on specially sized cloths laid on them. And the crew will have to remain clothed, too.
SPIEGEL ONLINE: Are you planning a further expansion?
Hess: We can see that there is a genuine market for FKK-related things and will soon be offering all-inclusive FKK vacations, which will involve a FKK flight, a week in a FKK hotel and a return flight with other FKK passengers. FKK cruises are another possibility.
SPIEGEL ONLINE: How do you deal with the chilliness when you're sitting on a naked flight?
Hess: That is a serious issue. But, in the end, the flight will be on July 5, and it only lasts 60 minutes. Of course, there are also people who go swimming in the Baltic Sea on the first of January. I would never do that. But, then again, I'm not an FKK fan and, in that sense, not a FKK flight customer either.
Interview conducted by Reinhild Haacker
Monday, 28 January 2008
What is this?!
This is the photo of crowded airport! Please find few times what does that indicate? what actually is this? Your opinions will be published in this blog after 36 hours!
Let's think if such a crowd of airlines happen in Tribhuvan International Airport, then what would be its result on Nepalese tourisms and econonmy.
Read more...
Let's think if such a crowd of airlines happen in Tribhuvan International Airport, then what would be its result on Nepalese tourisms and econonmy.
Bali Summit, Nepal and a Rethink on the Kyoto protocol
By Surya B. Prasai, the USA
In Nepal´s case, there
appears to be little significant benefit to achieve sustainable development even after signing the Protocol, since it has little control effect over its environmental future, situated as it is between two huge economic giants that have a transferable, cross- emission effect caused by rapid industrialization and unsurpassed economic growth which has its sponge effect on our daily lives.For much of the first week of December 2007 and the next, UN and international climate change officials and experts gathered in Bali , Indonesia for highly contentious talks on a replacement to the Kyoto Protocol. The organizing officials were distributing speculative media clips to the international press that not all the 190 countries of the world attending the 12-day meeting might end up being happy in the end. Ban Ki-Moon, UN Secretary General, on the other hand felt time was really running out in the fight against global warming. "We have read the science. Global warming is real, and we are the prime cause. Our job in Bali and beyond is to shape this nascent global transformation – to open the door to the age of green economics and green development," he said with some speculative reasoning. But unfortunately, within the Kyoto Protocol, what is still missing is a global framework within which the planet´s people can coordinate their efforts to fight climate change scientifically or measurably. Climate change if unchecked will be the main cause of another major world war according to the doomsday forecasters, leading to huge unchecked mass migration, depletion of agricultural land to rising water levels in coastal areas and oceans, melting of the Himalayan glaciers and the Polar ice caps, and the scarcity of water itself with soaring temperatures by the time the next generation reaches adulthood. It is already happening in most parts of the world and the world is already fighting to store limited resources including oil. The United Nations Environmental Programmed believes a third of our plant and animal species will vanish and large parts of Africa and Central Asia will go barren. But lost in these bad news of course is the good, which according to the summit organizers means, reversing some of the effects at far less cost than most of us can imagine. "We're already seeing many of the impacts of climate change," Yvo de Boer, head of the UN climate change secretariat, stated. "The world is on a very dangerous path, but it is still manageable." The conference, which began on December 3, attempted to kick start talks over the Kyoto Protocol which is due to expire in 2012. A new agreement must be concluded within two years to give countries time to ratify it and ensure an uninterrupted transition, which at best is difficult. "There is a very clear signal from the scientific community that we need to act on this issue," states de Boer added, "We have to turn the trend of global emissions in the next 10 to 15 years." But how? Why the uncontrolled global warming despite the Kyoto Protocol, which Nepal, a fragile eco-state had also ratified? The fact is, the Protocol which is the baby of the 1997 UN conference held in Kyoto, Japan , requires nations to reduce carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping gasses emitted by power plants and other industrial, agricultural and transportation sources to at least five per cent below 1990 levels by 2008-12, which is well nigh impossible. A total of 174 nations have ratified the pact, none have achieved it. The UNFCC has even divided countries into developed and developing nations. Not all have the same commitments, the EU, for example, which negotiates as a bloc, has committed itself to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20 per cent by 2020 compared with 1990 levels. If taken together, the limits would reduce overall emissions of six greenhouse gases from these countries by approximately 5 per cent below 1990 levels before 2012. A relatively small reduction in percentage but a huge step for the world´s environmental scientists since Europe is the world´s leading economic power house and industrial belt. Similarly, of the three dozen industrially developed nations that have signed it, the US and China , the world's biggest greenhouse gas emitters, continued remaining outside. Prospects for a global deal were only boosted recently when Kevin Rudd, whose party swept to power in Australia , immediately put signing the Kyoto pact at the top of his international agenda. Australia had previously refused to sign the agreement. Also, President George Bush from the US who opposed Kyoto as a threat to US economic growth had recently suggested the US would take part beyond 2012, since the US has its own internal environmental safeguards that exceed the Kyoto standards. "We'd like to see consensus on the launch of negotiations. We want to see a Bali roadmap," said Paula Dobriansky, US Undersecretary of State for Democracy and Global Affairs earlier on in the meeting. "We will go to Bali with openness, flexibility." The Americans were watching closely and consciously what Japan , China , India and the European Bloc werel actually commit themselves to at Bali . But will the Bali meeting achieve anything in the end? Indeed Kyoto Protocol analysts are apt to believe that its signatory status appears advantageous to developed nations to meet their emission reduction targets at lower abatement expenditures. However the question is, will the emission reduction burden be equitably shared between the developed and the developing countries despite the end consensus? An MIT study shows, under the present Kyoto commitment, per capita emissions are reduced by 14% on a global scale, however reduction is less severe in developed countries. At one extreme is Japan , where per capita emissions would be less only by 2.7% because it will import 92% of its emission reduction obligation. On the other hand, per capita carbon emission reduction is 18% in developing countries. Therefore, neither the Kyoto commitments nor the scope of trading do much to change the ratio of emissions per capita between the industrialized and the developing economies of the world, all are polluters to the first degree. Again, if the US and China are to be considered the two worst global polluters given their advanced industrial ´burn out" effect, both are also environmentally conscious countries that do not have to go by the Kyoto Protocol. For instance, in the US, the Environmental Protection Agency has rigid pollution standards that still makes America one of the world´s environmentally cleanest countries going by the principal of "polluters pay first´. Businesses in many parts of America are adhering to clear public policies on climate change, regardless of what form they might take – regulation, emission caps, efficiency guidelines or just basic industrial licensing ground rules. This is equally true of countries such as France , Germany and Russia that have environmental friendly ´recyclable´ economies that are still considered highly energy efficient and clean.
For the other great "polluter" China , it too is moving fast on the environment at least much faster than the UN which compulsively needs to go around persuading global signatories at every major summit. Just last week, senior Beijing officials stated that China would do more to strengthen its existing domestic targets to improve energy efficiency and curb greenhouse gas emissions, if other world powers shared relevant technologies. "If help is forthcoming, if international cooperation is as it should be, we will definitely do more," Yu Qingtai, a climate change negotiator said. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon too believes that China is sincere in its efforts," Much is made of the fact that China is poised to surpass the United States as the world´s largest emitter of greenhouse gases. But lesser is made known of its efforts to confront grave environmental problems such as an investment track fund of US$ 10 billion in renewable energy, second only to Germany, and its commitment to reduce energy consumption (pre unit of gross domestic product) by 20 percent over five years, at par with Europe´s commitment to a 20 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020". And what about countries such as Nepal which eventually live to think of that day when there will be no more snow in the Himalayas and the rivers run dry? Nepal 's environment has already suffered the effects of a bad socio-economic regression period that is the 10 year civil conflict that ended only recently. But more acute problems have been the agricultural encroachment, deforestation and consequent soil erosion, contamination of the water supply, and unsurpassed migration into mid-hill townships and cities that has put local environmental pressures. Do note this: between the mid-1960s and the late 1970s, forestland lessened from 30% to 22% in total acreages since firewood was then over 90% of Nepal 's fuel requirement source. Soil erosion is causing the loss of about 240 million cu m of topsoil each year. The Food and Agricultural Organization of the UN estimates that at the present rate of depletion, the forests will be virtually wiped out by 2015. Air and water pollution are also significant environmental problems in Nepal , airline pilots complain that Kathmandu valley is always covered with a layer of air pollution. According to United Nations sources, Nepal produces 18,000 tons of carbon monoxide and 3,300 tons of hydrocarbons per year. Roughly one-third of the nation's city inhabitants and two-thirds of all rural dwellers do not have pure water, and the use of contaminated drinking water creates a health hazard. Untreated sewage is a major pollution factor: the nation's cities produce an average of 0.7 million tons of solid waste per year. Nepal ´s pro-green environment lobby has estimated that in 2007, 34 of Nepal 's mammal species and 42 of its bird species were endangered, as were 11 plant species. Some of the animal species classified as endangered in Nepal include the snow leopard, tiger, Asian elephant, pygmy hog, great Indian rhinoceros, Assam rabbit, swamp deer, wild yak, chir pheasant, and gavial. No one has done an accurate study to date. Delegates at the UN's climate change conference in Bali are worried about these types of depletion as well, not just the exchange of carbon emissions and allocating country points, or whether cuts in carbon emissions should be mandatory or voluntary, or how by reducing deforestation, poor countries might be less hit by worsening droughts, floods and violent storms. Clearly, the answer to the future is that alternate global energy demands must be met, and it can be met by deploying half of the existing technology in the developed countries to the developing world, even with a neat profit sum of 10% or more according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the UN affiliated scientific body that recently shared the Nobel Peace prize. UNEP believes that the global investment in zero sum greenhouse energy could reach $ 1.9 trillion by 2020, enough seed money and a safe transitional period for a wholesale re-configuration of global industry that favors Green economics. While the Bali Summit sought to unite rich and poor nations to fight global warming and could shape global climate change policy for years to come, one should not forget the main thrust of the conference which was to find a follow-on agreement to the Kyoto Protocol. The Kyoto protocol clearly states that countries overshooting their targets in 2012 will have to make both the promised cuts and 30 percent more in a second period from 2013. But the UNFCC's developing nations do not have legally binding targets to reduce their greenhouse gasses during the 2008-12 commitment periods. The predictable outcome at Bali thus was a refusal to accept mandatory emissions targets. Countries that are considered the new global power houses such as China and India, already oppose measures that might impinge on their efforts to tackle poverty and this might have a sweeping influence in Bali since both countries have long been influencing the voice of other developing countries in stating that it should be that county´s individual voice and no one else´s in acceding to binding emissions quotas, and it should not be at the cost of perpetuating poverty and economic stagnation. While both developed and developing countries are able to earn credits, known as the Clean Development Mechanism (CMD), to offset against their targets by funding clean technologies such as solar power used in both groups, poorer countries such as Nepal can only wish that through Bali, the world´s environmental experts can reach some agreement on what is more important than monitoring CDM alone. In Nepal´s case, there appears to be little significant benefit to achieve sustainable development even after signing the Protocol, since it has little control effect over its environmental future, situated as it is between two huge economic giants that have a transferable, cross- emission effect caused by rapid industrialization and unsurpassed economic growth which has its sponge effect on our daily lives. Nevertheless Nepal ´s ratification to the Kyoto Protocol is its commitment to safeguard the environment for the future generations that will inherit this land. (The author is an independent global strategic communications, media and international development consultant based in Maryland , US and cab be reached at just_1_idea@hotmail.com)
Read more...
appears to be little significant benefit to achieve sustainable development even after signing the Protocol, since it has little control effect over its environmental future, situated as it is between two huge economic giants that have a transferable, cross- emission effect caused by rapid industrialization and unsurpassed economic growth which has its sponge effect on our daily lives.For much of the first week of December 2007 and the next, UN and international climate change officials and experts gathered in Bali , Indonesia for highly contentious talks on a replacement to the Kyoto Protocol. The organizing officials were distributing speculative media clips to the international press that not all the 190 countries of the world attending the 12-day meeting might end up being happy in the end. Ban Ki-Moon, UN Secretary General, on the other hand felt time was really running out in the fight against global warming. "We have read the science. Global warming is real, and we are the prime cause. Our job in Bali and beyond is to shape this nascent global transformation – to open the door to the age of green economics and green development," he said with some speculative reasoning. But unfortunately, within the Kyoto Protocol, what is still missing is a global framework within which the planet´s people can coordinate their efforts to fight climate change scientifically or measurably. Climate change if unchecked will be the main cause of another major world war according to the doomsday forecasters, leading to huge unchecked mass migration, depletion of agricultural land to rising water levels in coastal areas and oceans, melting of the Himalayan glaciers and the Polar ice caps, and the scarcity of water itself with soaring temperatures by the time the next generation reaches adulthood. It is already happening in most parts of the world and the world is already fighting to store limited resources including oil. The United Nations Environmental Programmed believes a third of our plant and animal species will vanish and large parts of Africa and Central Asia will go barren. But lost in these bad news of course is the good, which according to the summit organizers means, reversing some of the effects at far less cost than most of us can imagine. "We're already seeing many of the impacts of climate change," Yvo de Boer, head of the UN climate change secretariat, stated. "The world is on a very dangerous path, but it is still manageable." The conference, which began on December 3, attempted to kick start talks over the Kyoto Protocol which is due to expire in 2012. A new agreement must be concluded within two years to give countries time to ratify it and ensure an uninterrupted transition, which at best is difficult. "There is a very clear signal from the scientific community that we need to act on this issue," states de Boer added, "We have to turn the trend of global emissions in the next 10 to 15 years." But how? Why the uncontrolled global warming despite the Kyoto Protocol, which Nepal, a fragile eco-state had also ratified? The fact is, the Protocol which is the baby of the 1997 UN conference held in Kyoto, Japan , requires nations to reduce carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping gasses emitted by power plants and other industrial, agricultural and transportation sources to at least five per cent below 1990 levels by 2008-12, which is well nigh impossible. A total of 174 nations have ratified the pact, none have achieved it. The UNFCC has even divided countries into developed and developing nations. Not all have the same commitments, the EU, for example, which negotiates as a bloc, has committed itself to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20 per cent by 2020 compared with 1990 levels. If taken together, the limits would reduce overall emissions of six greenhouse gases from these countries by approximately 5 per cent below 1990 levels before 2012. A relatively small reduction in percentage but a huge step for the world´s environmental scientists since Europe is the world´s leading economic power house and industrial belt. Similarly, of the three dozen industrially developed nations that have signed it, the US and China , the world's biggest greenhouse gas emitters, continued remaining outside. Prospects for a global deal were only boosted recently when Kevin Rudd, whose party swept to power in Australia , immediately put signing the Kyoto pact at the top of his international agenda. Australia had previously refused to sign the agreement. Also, President George Bush from the US who opposed Kyoto as a threat to US economic growth had recently suggested the US would take part beyond 2012, since the US has its own internal environmental safeguards that exceed the Kyoto standards. "We'd like to see consensus on the launch of negotiations. We want to see a Bali roadmap," said Paula Dobriansky, US Undersecretary of State for Democracy and Global Affairs earlier on in the meeting. "We will go to Bali with openness, flexibility." The Americans were watching closely and consciously what Japan , China , India and the European Bloc werel actually commit themselves to at Bali . But will the Bali meeting achieve anything in the end? Indeed Kyoto Protocol analysts are apt to believe that its signatory status appears advantageous to developed nations to meet their emission reduction targets at lower abatement expenditures. However the question is, will the emission reduction burden be equitably shared between the developed and the developing countries despite the end consensus? An MIT study shows, under the present Kyoto commitment, per capita emissions are reduced by 14% on a global scale, however reduction is less severe in developed countries. At one extreme is Japan , where per capita emissions would be less only by 2.7% because it will import 92% of its emission reduction obligation. On the other hand, per capita carbon emission reduction is 18% in developing countries. Therefore, neither the Kyoto commitments nor the scope of trading do much to change the ratio of emissions per capita between the industrialized and the developing economies of the world, all are polluters to the first degree. Again, if the US and China are to be considered the two worst global polluters given their advanced industrial ´burn out" effect, both are also environmentally conscious countries that do not have to go by the Kyoto Protocol. For instance, in the US, the Environmental Protection Agency has rigid pollution standards that still makes America one of the world´s environmentally cleanest countries going by the principal of "polluters pay first´. Businesses in many parts of America are adhering to clear public policies on climate change, regardless of what form they might take – regulation, emission caps, efficiency guidelines or just basic industrial licensing ground rules. This is equally true of countries such as France , Germany and Russia that have environmental friendly ´recyclable´ economies that are still considered highly energy efficient and clean.For the other great "polluter" China , it too is moving fast on the environment at least much faster than the UN which compulsively needs to go around persuading global signatories at every major summit. Just last week, senior Beijing officials stated that China would do more to strengthen its existing domestic targets to improve energy efficiency and curb greenhouse gas emissions, if other world powers shared relevant technologies. "If help is forthcoming, if international cooperation is as it should be, we will definitely do more," Yu Qingtai, a climate change negotiator said. UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon too believes that China is sincere in its efforts," Much is made of the fact that China is poised to surpass the United States as the world´s largest emitter of greenhouse gases. But lesser is made known of its efforts to confront grave environmental problems such as an investment track fund of US$ 10 billion in renewable energy, second only to Germany, and its commitment to reduce energy consumption (pre unit of gross domestic product) by 20 percent over five years, at par with Europe´s commitment to a 20 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020". And what about countries such as Nepal which eventually live to think of that day when there will be no more snow in the Himalayas and the rivers run dry? Nepal 's environment has already suffered the effects of a bad socio-economic regression period that is the 10 year civil conflict that ended only recently. But more acute problems have been the agricultural encroachment, deforestation and consequent soil erosion, contamination of the water supply, and unsurpassed migration into mid-hill townships and cities that has put local environmental pressures. Do note this: between the mid-1960s and the late 1970s, forestland lessened from 30% to 22% in total acreages since firewood was then over 90% of Nepal 's fuel requirement source. Soil erosion is causing the loss of about 240 million cu m of topsoil each year. The Food and Agricultural Organization of the UN estimates that at the present rate of depletion, the forests will be virtually wiped out by 2015. Air and water pollution are also significant environmental problems in Nepal , airline pilots complain that Kathmandu valley is always covered with a layer of air pollution. According to United Nations sources, Nepal produces 18,000 tons of carbon monoxide and 3,300 tons of hydrocarbons per year. Roughly one-third of the nation's city inhabitants and two-thirds of all rural dwellers do not have pure water, and the use of contaminated drinking water creates a health hazard. Untreated sewage is a major pollution factor: the nation's cities produce an average of 0.7 million tons of solid waste per year. Nepal ´s pro-green environment lobby has estimated that in 2007, 34 of Nepal 's mammal species and 42 of its bird species were endangered, as were 11 plant species. Some of the animal species classified as endangered in Nepal include the snow leopard, tiger, Asian elephant, pygmy hog, great Indian rhinoceros, Assam rabbit, swamp deer, wild yak, chir pheasant, and gavial. No one has done an accurate study to date. Delegates at the UN's climate change conference in Bali are worried about these types of depletion as well, not just the exchange of carbon emissions and allocating country points, or whether cuts in carbon emissions should be mandatory or voluntary, or how by reducing deforestation, poor countries might be less hit by worsening droughts, floods and violent storms. Clearly, the answer to the future is that alternate global energy demands must be met, and it can be met by deploying half of the existing technology in the developed countries to the developing world, even with a neat profit sum of 10% or more according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, the UN affiliated scientific body that recently shared the Nobel Peace prize. UNEP believes that the global investment in zero sum greenhouse energy could reach $ 1.9 trillion by 2020, enough seed money and a safe transitional period for a wholesale re-configuration of global industry that favors Green economics. While the Bali Summit sought to unite rich and poor nations to fight global warming and could shape global climate change policy for years to come, one should not forget the main thrust of the conference which was to find a follow-on agreement to the Kyoto Protocol. The Kyoto protocol clearly states that countries overshooting their targets in 2012 will have to make both the promised cuts and 30 percent more in a second period from 2013. But the UNFCC's developing nations do not have legally binding targets to reduce their greenhouse gasses during the 2008-12 commitment periods. The predictable outcome at Bali thus was a refusal to accept mandatory emissions targets. Countries that are considered the new global power houses such as China and India, already oppose measures that might impinge on their efforts to tackle poverty and this might have a sweeping influence in Bali since both countries have long been influencing the voice of other developing countries in stating that it should be that county´s individual voice and no one else´s in acceding to binding emissions quotas, and it should not be at the cost of perpetuating poverty and economic stagnation. While both developed and developing countries are able to earn credits, known as the Clean Development Mechanism (CMD), to offset against their targets by funding clean technologies such as solar power used in both groups, poorer countries such as Nepal can only wish that through Bali, the world´s environmental experts can reach some agreement on what is more important than monitoring CDM alone. In Nepal´s case, there appears to be little significant benefit to achieve sustainable development even after signing the Protocol, since it has little control effect over its environmental future, situated as it is between two huge economic giants that have a transferable, cross- emission effect caused by rapid industrialization and unsurpassed economic growth which has its sponge effect on our daily lives. Nevertheless Nepal ´s ratification to the Kyoto Protocol is its commitment to safeguard the environment for the future generations that will inherit this land. (The author is an independent global strategic communications, media and international development consultant based in Maryland , US and cab be reached at just_1_idea@hotmail.com)
Nepalese Intellectual reached to the final of Global Development Award 2007
The D
eputy Director of Nepal Rastra Bank Dr. Nephil Matangi Maskay, has been selected for the Global Development Award 2007. Some of his article are:
"Nepal's experience for currency unification: an examination of exchange rate performance for the Nepalese vis-a-vis Indian currency with special reference to the period of 1956-1960".
There are three finalists for the award. Other two fianlist competitors are Raul Francisco Andrade Ciudad from Peru, and Rongxing Guo from China.
There are three finalists for the award. Other two fianlist competitors are Raul Francisco Andrade Ciudad from Peru, and Rongxing Guo from China.
Selected researchers will now travel at GDN’s expense to Brisbane to present their final papers/ proposals to an internationally renowned selection committee.
What is the 2007 Global Development Awards and Medals Competition ?
Carrying prizes in cash and travel worth nearly $240,000, this is
the largest international competition on development research. Since 2000, nearly 3,700 scholars representing over 100 countries have participated in this competition and nearly $2 million has been distributed in prizes and conference expenses to finalists and winners. This competition is unique in that it is open only to researchers from developing and transition countries. The Awards and Medals Competition is a competitive funding mechanism established by mutual cooperation between GDN and the Government of Japan. Finalists are invited at GDN’s expense to present proposals at the Ninth Annual Global Development Conference, Brisbane, January 2008.
What is the 2007 Global Development Awards and Medals Competition ?
Carrying prizes in cash and travel worth nearly $240,000, this is
the largest international competition on development research. Since 2000, nearly 3,700 scholars representing over 100 countries have participated in this competition and nearly $2 million has been distributed in prizes and conference expenses to finalists and winners. This competition is unique in that it is open only to researchers from developing and transition countries. The Awards and Medals Competition is a competitive funding mechanism established by mutual cooperation between GDN and the Government of Japan. Finalists are invited at GDN’s expense to present proposals at the Ninth Annual Global Development Conference, Brisbane, January 2008. To be selected for the final round of competition from Nepal is our achievement. We hope and wish all the best for Maskay. He will make us proud and spread the rays of hope, by winning the global award.
You can contact him by:
E-mail: nmmaskay@nrb.org.np
Phone:Res. 977-1-4371361 Fax. 977-1-4371713
Postal address:GPO Box 20708 Sundhara, Kathmandu, NEPAL
Workplace:Nepal Rastra Bank (Nepal Central Bank
Read more...
Sunday, 27 January 2008
Children Soldiers of Nepal's Maoist Army and their future
The nepalese rebellion maoist had recruited many child soldiers during their 12 years long people's movement however they always claim it as just the rumour.
Saturday, 26 January 2008
Ph. D. opportunities in Swedish Agricultural University
There are several announcement for the Ph.D. and Post doctorate at SLU. Please see the given sites (at the end) for more information. The interested person can directly write to the contact person via. given email.
Uppsala campus:- PhD student in the research education subject Biology Full time at Department of Ecology, Uppsala. Contact: Professor Ingemar Fries, Ekologiska institutionen, SLU, Box 7044, 750 07 Uppsala tel: 018 67 20 73, e-post: ingemar.fries@ekol.slu.se
Closure date 2008-03-03. Ref no 4084/07.
- PhD student in the research education subject: Animal science, ethology The role of positive affect in the regulation of behaviour of checkens Full time at Dept. of Animal Environment and Health, Uppsala. Contact: Prof Harry Blokhuis (Harry.Blokhuis@hmh.slu.se) Head of department Stefan Gunnarsson (Stefan.Gunnarsson@hmh.slu.se)
Closure date 2008-02-15. Ref no 3932/07. - Post-Doctoral position in water quality management – fate and behaviour of pesticides in soil and transport to surface waters Full time at Department of Soil Sciences, Uppsala. Contact: Professor Lars Bergström, Lars.Bergstrom@mv.slu.se, phone no. +46-(0)18-672 463 and assistant professor Jenny Kreuger, Jenny.Kreuger@mv.slu.se, phone no. +46-(0)18-672 462.
Closure date 2008-02-12. Ref no 4170/07. - Alnarp campus:
- Doctoral student in forest history Full time at Inst för sydsvensk skogsvetenskap, Alnarp. Contact: Docent Matts Lindbladh, SLU, 040-415196, (matts.lindbladh@ess.slu.se)
Closure date 2008-02-15. Ref no 128/08.
- PhD position in Forest Management with emphasize on root and butt root, silviculture and planning Full time at Inst för sydsvensk skogsvetenskap, Alnarp. Contact: Jonas Rönnberg tfn 040-415179 Jonas.Ronnberg@ess.slu.se
Closure date 2008-02-15. Ref no 129/08.
- PhD student in the research education sudject: Plant Protection Biology Full time at Department of Plant Protection Biologi in Alnarp. Contact: Prof Fredrik Schlyter, Chemical Ecology, Dept Plant Prot. Biol., Alnarp fredrik.schlyter@ltj.slu.se
Closure date 2008-02-18. Ref no 45/08. - Postdoc position on adaptation of forestry to climate changes Full time at The Southern Swedish Forest Research Centre, Alnarp. Contact: Kristina Blennow +46-(0)40-415230 Kristina.Blennow@ess.slu.se Matts Lindbladh +46-(0)18-672 462 Matts.Lindbladh@ess.slu.se
Closure date 2008-02-25. Ref no 4118/07.
- Postdoc position on adaptation of forestry to climate changes Full time at The Southern Swedish Forest Research Centre, Alnarp. Contact: Kristina Blennow +46-(0)40-415230 Kristina.Blennow@ess.slu.se Matts Lindbladh +46-(0)18-672 462 Matts.Lindbladh@ess.slu.se
Closure date 2008-02-25. Ref no 4120/08. - Postdoc position on adaptation of forestry to climate changes Full time at The Southern Swedish Forest Research Centre, Alnarp. Contact: Further information: Kristina Blennow +46-(0)40-415230 Kristina.Blennow@ess.slu.se Matts Lindbladh +46-(0)18-672 462 Matts.Lindbladh@ess.slu.se
Closure date 2008-02-25. Ref no 4121/07.
- Postdoc positionson adaptation of forestry to climate changes Full time at The Southern Swedish Forest Research Centre, Alnarp. Contact: Further information: Kristina Blennow +46-(0)40-415230 Kristina.Blennow@ess.slu.se Matts Lindbladh +46-(0)18-672 462 Matts.Lindbladh@ess.slu.se
Closure date 2008-02-25. Ref no 4119/08.
Skara campus:
- Post-Doctoral position in high resolution soil sensing and mapping Full time. at Department of Soil Sciences, Division of Precision Agriculture, Skara. Contact: Dr. Bo Stenberg, Bo.Stenberg@mv.slu.se , phone no. +46-(0)511-67276 or Dr. Mats Söderström, Mats.Soderstrom@mv.slu.se, phone no. +46-(0)511-67244.
Closure date 2008-02-12. Ref no 4171/07.
Umeå campus:
- (Temporary) Research position in Forest Resource Management Full time at Department of Forest Resource Management, Umeå. Contact: Associate professor Hans Petersson. E-mail: hans.petersson@srh.slu.se, Phone +46- (0)90-786 85 01. PhD Torgny Lind. E-mail: torgny.lind@srh.slu.se, Phone +46- (0)90-786 85 18.
Closure date 2008-02-20. Ref no 282/08.
- PhD student in the research education subject: Forest Vegetation Ecology Role of biodiversity of nitrogen fixing cyanobacteria in feather mosses on nitrogen input to boreal forest ecosystems Full time at Forest Ecology and Management, Umeå. Contact: Enquiries about this position can be made to Prof. Marie-Charlotte Nilsson (Marie-Charlotte.Nilsson@svek.slu.se).
http://dokument.slu.se/ansti
Closure date 2008-02-05. Ref no 3612/07 Read more...
Friday, 25 January 2008
Critique Mounts against Biofuels
By Charles Hawley in Berlin (Spiegel online)
The European Union has announced plans to increase the use of gas and diesel produced from plants. But the critique against biofuels is mounting. Many say they are even more harmful than conventional fossil fuels.
The images are enough to soothe one's soul. Golden fields of grain stretching as far as the eye can see; bright yellow rapeseed flower blooming in the European countryside; drivers happily cruising down the autobahn, smiling in the knowledge that the biodiesel their car is burning does no harm to the environment.
(photo:This used to be a dense forest in Indonesia. But the trees have made way for a palm oil plantation to produce biofuels.) But such a bucolic view of biofuels -- gas and diesel made from plants -- may soon become a thing of the past. The European Union on Wednesday unveiled a far-reaching plan (more...) aimed at cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent relative to 1990 and dramatically upping the share of renewable energies in the 27-member bloc's energy mix. The scheme also calls for 10 percent of fuel used in transportation to be made up of biofuels. That last element, though, is becoming increasingly controversial -- and environmental groups, this week, are leading an aggressive charge to put a stop to biofuels.
'No Way to Make Them Viable'
"The biofuels route is a dead end," Dr. Andrew Boswell, a Green Party councillor in England and author of a recent study on the harmful effects of biofuels, told SPIEGEL ONLINE. "They are going to create great damage to the environment and will also produce dramatic social problems in (tropical countries where many crops for biofuels are grown). There basically isn't any way to make them viable."
The evidence against biofuels marshalled by Boswell and other environmentalists appears quite damning. Advertised as a fuel that only emits the amount of carbon dioxide that the plants absorb while growing -- making it carbon neutral -- it actually has resulted in a profitable industrial sector attractive to countries around the world. Vast swaths of forest have been felled and burned in Argentina and elsewhere for soya plantations. Carbon-rich peat bogs are being drained and rain forests destroyed in Indonesia to make way for extensive palm oil farming.
Because the forests are often torched and the peat rapidly oxidizes, the result is huge amounts of CO2 being released into the atmosphere. Furthermore, healthy peat bogs and forests absorb CO2 -- scientists refer to them as "carbon sinks" -- making their disappearance doubly harmful.
Indeed, the Stern Review on the Economics of Climate Change, released in October 2006, estimates that deforestation and other comparable land-use changes account for 18 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions around the world. Biofuels, say activists, accelerate that process.
A Gold Rush
"We are causing a climate catastrophe by promoting agro-fuels," Greenpeace agricultural specialist Alexander Hissting told SPIEGEL ONLINE, using his group's preferred term for biofuels. "We are creating a huge industry in many parts of the world. In Indonesia, something akin to a gold rush has broken out."
The European Union seems to have taken note of the gathering biofuels storm. The plan has noted that the 10-percent goal is dependent on whether "production is sustainable," as an EU PowerPoint presentation delivered to reporters on Tuesday noted. The EU also wants to make it illegal to use biofuels made from crops grown in nature reserves or in recently clear-cut forest lands. Crops grown in places valuable as carbon sinks are also to be avoided.
The real face of biofuels? A forest makes way for a palm plantation in Malaysia.But critics doubt whether such clauses, which call for acceptable fields to be certified, is enforceable. "At the moment, such certification systems are very incomplete and it is very unlikely that they will ever work," says Boswell. "The biofuel supply chain is incredibly complicated."
Even EU scientists doubt whether the supposed benefits of biofuels will ever outweigh the costs. A recent report in the Financial Times cited an unpublished study by the Joint Research Center, a stable of European Commission scientists, as saying that the "uncertainty is too great to say whether the EU 10 percent biofuel target will save greenhouse gas or not." It noted that subsidies in place to promote biofuels would cost European taxpayers between €33 billion and €65 billion by 2020.
Environmentalists say that emissions aren't the only serious problem created by the biofuel boom. Even crops grown in northern countries, like corn in the United States or rapeseed in Germany and the rest of Europe, harbor major dangers to the climate. Both maize and rapeseed are voracious consumers of nitrogen, leading farmers to use large quantities of nitrous oxide fertilizers. But when nitrous oxide is released into the atmosphere, it reflects 300 times as much heat as carbon dioxide does. Paul J. Crutzen, who won the 1995 Nobel prize for chemistry, estimates that biodiesel produced from rapeseed can result in up to 70 percent more greenhouse gas emissions than fossil fuels. Corn, the preferred biofuels crop in the US, results in 50 percent more emissions, Crutzen estimates.
'A Total Disaster'
Another issue receiving increasing attention recently is that of rising food prices as foodstuffs are turned into fuel. Price increases for soybeans and corn hit developing countries particularly hard. Indeed, there have already been food price riots in Mexico, Morocco, Senegal and other developing countries. While the price increases cannot be pinned entirely on biofuels, it has certainly played a role. In October, the United Nations' Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food Jean Ziegler called for a five-year moratorium on biofuels to combat rising prices. Using arable land for biofuels, he said, "is a total disaster for those who are starving."
Slowly, it appears that some governments are beginning to listen to the chorus of criticisms. Last autumn, the Canadian province of Quebec announced that it would cease building plants to produce the biofuel ethanol. And on Monday, the UK's House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee called for a stop in the increase of biofuel use. "Biofuels can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from road transport. But at present, most biofuels have a detrimental impact on the environment overall," committee chairman Tim Yeo said, according to Reuters.
The European Union has reacted with anger to the UK report. Andris Piebalgs, European commissioner for energy, told the Guardian that "the Commission strongly disagrees with the conclusion of the British House of Commons report."
The report, though, is music to the ears of environmentalists like Boswell. "We have been highlighting these problems for a number of years," he says. "Now it is time for the UK government to act on the committee report."
Read more...
The European Union has announced plans to increase the use of gas and diesel produced from plants. But the critique against biofuels is mounting. Many say they are even more harmful than conventional fossil fuels.
The images are enough to soothe one's soul. Golden fields of grain stretching as far as the eye can see; bright yellow rapeseed flower blooming in the European countryside; drivers happily cruising down the autobahn, smiling in the knowledge that the biodiesel their car is burning does no harm to the environment.
(photo:This used to be a dense forest in Indonesia. But the trees have made way for a palm oil plantation to produce biofuels.) But such a bucolic view of biofuels -- gas and diesel made from plants -- may soon become a thing of the past. The European Union on Wednesday unveiled a far-reaching plan (more...) aimed at cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent relative to 1990 and dramatically upping the share of renewable energies in the 27-member bloc's energy mix. The scheme also calls for 10 percent of fuel used in transportation to be made up of biofuels. That last element, though, is becoming increasingly controversial -- and environmental groups, this week, are leading an aggressive charge to put a stop to biofuels.
'No Way to Make Them Viable'
"The biofuels route is a dead end," Dr. Andrew Boswell, a Green Party councillor in England and author of a recent study on the harmful effects of biofuels, told SPIEGEL ONLINE. "They are going to create great damage to the environment and will also produce dramatic social problems in (tropical countries where many crops for biofuels are grown). There basically isn't any way to make them viable."
The evidence against biofuels marshalled by Boswell and other environmentalists appears quite damning. Advertised as a fuel that only emits the amount of carbon dioxide that the plants absorb while growing -- making it carbon neutral -- it actually has resulted in a profitable industrial sector attractive to countries around the world. Vast swaths of forest have been felled and burned in Argentina and elsewhere for soya plantations. Carbon-rich peat bogs are being drained and rain forests destroyed in Indonesia to make way for extensive palm oil farming.
Because the forests are often torched and the peat rapidly oxidizes, the result is huge amounts of CO2 being released into the atmosphere. Furthermore, healthy peat bogs and forests absorb CO2 -- scientists refer to them as "carbon sinks" -- making their disappearance doubly harmful.
Indeed, the Stern Review on the Economics of Climate Change, released in October 2006, estimates that deforestation and other comparable land-use changes account for 18 percent of all greenhouse gas emissions around the world. Biofuels, say activists, accelerate that process.
A Gold Rush
"We are causing a climate catastrophe by promoting agro-fuels," Greenpeace agricultural specialist Alexander Hissting told SPIEGEL ONLINE, using his group's preferred term for biofuels. "We are creating a huge industry in many parts of the world. In Indonesia, something akin to a gold rush has broken out."
The European Union seems to have taken note of the gathering biofuels storm. The plan has noted that the 10-percent goal is dependent on whether "production is sustainable," as an EU PowerPoint presentation delivered to reporters on Tuesday noted. The EU also wants to make it illegal to use biofuels made from crops grown in nature reserves or in recently clear-cut forest lands. Crops grown in places valuable as carbon sinks are also to be avoided.
The real face of biofuels? A forest makes way for a palm plantation in Malaysia.But critics doubt whether such clauses, which call for acceptable fields to be certified, is enforceable. "At the moment, such certification systems are very incomplete and it is very unlikely that they will ever work," says Boswell. "The biofuel supply chain is incredibly complicated."
Even EU scientists doubt whether the supposed benefits of biofuels will ever outweigh the costs. A recent report in the Financial Times cited an unpublished study by the Joint Research Center, a stable of European Commission scientists, as saying that the "uncertainty is too great to say whether the EU 10 percent biofuel target will save greenhouse gas or not." It noted that subsidies in place to promote biofuels would cost European taxpayers between €33 billion and €65 billion by 2020.
Environmentalists say that emissions aren't the only serious problem created by the biofuel boom. Even crops grown in northern countries, like corn in the United States or rapeseed in Germany and the rest of Europe, harbor major dangers to the climate. Both maize and rapeseed are voracious consumers of nitrogen, leading farmers to use large quantities of nitrous oxide fertilizers. But when nitrous oxide is released into the atmosphere, it reflects 300 times as much heat as carbon dioxide does. Paul J. Crutzen, who won the 1995 Nobel prize for chemistry, estimates that biodiesel produced from rapeseed can result in up to 70 percent more greenhouse gas emissions than fossil fuels. Corn, the preferred biofuels crop in the US, results in 50 percent more emissions, Crutzen estimates.
'A Total Disaster'
Another issue receiving increasing attention recently is that of rising food prices as foodstuffs are turned into fuel. Price increases for soybeans and corn hit developing countries particularly hard. Indeed, there have already been food price riots in Mexico, Morocco, Senegal and other developing countries. While the price increases cannot be pinned entirely on biofuels, it has certainly played a role. In October, the United Nations' Special Rapporteur on the Right to Food Jean Ziegler called for a five-year moratorium on biofuels to combat rising prices. Using arable land for biofuels, he said, "is a total disaster for those who are starving."
Slowly, it appears that some governments are beginning to listen to the chorus of criticisms. Last autumn, the Canadian province of Quebec announced that it would cease building plants to produce the biofuel ethanol. And on Monday, the UK's House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee called for a stop in the increase of biofuel use. "Biofuels can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from road transport. But at present, most biofuels have a detrimental impact on the environment overall," committee chairman Tim Yeo said, according to Reuters.
The European Union has reacted with anger to the UK report. Andris Piebalgs, European commissioner for energy, told the Guardian that "the Commission strongly disagrees with the conclusion of the British House of Commons report."
The report, though, is music to the ears of environmentalists like Boswell. "We have been highlighting these problems for a number of years," he says. "Now it is time for the UK government to act on the committee report."
Carla Burni (Girl Friend of French President) is in naked photo
A Spanish magazine has published an exclusive picture of French president Nicolas Sarkozy's fiancée Carla Bruni wearing only a pair of black leather boots - and what a
ppears to be a wedding ring.
The image, published online in the February edition of DT, shows the model-turned-singer-turned French President's fiancée lying on floor cushions with her arms protectively crossed over her chest.
The presence of a simple gold band on her wedding finger will further fuel
r
umours the Italian beauty has wed Sarkozy after a whirlwind romance.
The presence of a simple gold band on her wedding finger will further fuel
r
umours the Italian beauty has wed Sarkozy after a whirlwind romance.She is the recent girlfriend of French President Nicholas Sarjoki who is snapped naked for spanish newspaper DT. This photo was the recent photo but before officially agreeing their formal relationship with French President. She is a divorcee who has a around 8 years old son. Even the French president has already married with two women and divorced. Cicila the former wife, had divorced him after his election in president. What a big courage!
The popularity of French President has been record low since he has been giving much priority to hie personal life.
Read more...
Thursday, 24 January 2008
Batai ma gharchha............
Sweet song originally by Yash Kumar revitalized by Aashajee........
Wednesday, 23 January 2008
Government decided to take back price hike
Today, in the cabinet meetings, Government rolled back the decision of the price hike in petroleum products. Since the protests was going on the second days in Kathmandu and all over the country, Government of Nepal, after the cabinet meeting, decided to take back the previous decision of price increase in petroleum products. Government of Nepal, has been facing grea
t loss in the business of petroleum products. Government is providing heavy subsidy in the all form of petroleum products. Amazingly fossil fuels are cheaper in Nepal than India from where she use to buy it.
t loss in the business of petroleum products. Government is providing heavy subsidy in the all form of petroleum products. Amazingly fossil fuels are cheaper in Nepal than India from where she use to buy it.The price of petrol, diesel and kerosene in 1990 were NRs. 19, 7.5 and 6.00 per litere respectively which has been Nrs. 80.00, 56.25 and 51.20 respectively at the moment. And, the price of Cylinder Gas (LPG) was 380 in 1996 which has been increased to 1100 NRs. at the moment after Government took back the hiked price 1250 NRs.
Read more...
Ph.D. oppourtunities at Gottingen University
There is an announcement for 12 PhD positions in University of Goettingen, Germany. May be any of you have great interest in followin
g topics:
g topics:A1: Functional roles of ecto- and arbuscular mycorrhiza in deciduous forest trees and their role for nutrient competition and productivity Project leader: Prof. Dr. A. Polle, Forstbotanisches Institut, Büsgenweg 2, 37077 Göttingen, Germany
Aims of the project: To analyse functional roles of ectomycorrhiza in comparison with arbuscular mycorrhiza for N and P uptake and root productivity. Methods: Molecular biology, histochemistry, physiology including application of stable and radioactive isotopes.
A2: Mechanisms driving insect community composition and multitrophic interactions in mixed deciduous forests.
Project leader: Prof. Dr. Teja Tscharntke, Dr. Christoph Scherber, Agroecology, University of Göttingen, Waldweg 26, 37073 Göttingen; E-Mail: ttschar@gwdg.de, christoph.scherber@agr.uni-goettingen.de
Aims of the project: Analyze effects of tree species diversity on insect communities and multitrophic interactions between plants, pollinators, herbivores and their enemies. The work will include quantification of a diversity of interactions and field experiments with a main focus on herbs. Methods: Canopy research by use of a mobile elevator, standardised insect sampling, taxonomy, enclosure experiments, chemical analysis of leaf quality and volatiles.
A3: Mechanisms determining effects of tree species diversity on soil fauna in the rhizosphere and the soil-litter interface Project leader: N.N. (Dr. Christian Platner, Prof. Dr. Matthias Schaefer), Abteilung Ökologie, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach-Institut für Zoologie und Anthropologie, Berliner Str. 28, 37073 Göttingen; E-Mail: mschaef@gwdg.de
Aims of the project: Study of the diversity of soil mesofauna and microfauna groups in relation to tree species diversity; analysis of litter decomposition and the carbon translocation between plants, fauna and soil; study of the interactions between microflora and fauna in the rhizosphere and the soil-litter system.
Methods: Sampling of soil fauna; field and lab experimentation; food web and element balance analysis with stable isotopes; measurement of litter decomposition and root exudates.
B1: Mechanisms leading to niche partitioning in carbon and nitrogen uptake between tree species in a mixed deciduous forest
Project leader: Prof. Dr. Leuschner, Plant Ecology, Untere Karspüle 2, 37073 Göttingen, Germany, e-mail: cleusch@gwdg.de; Prof. Dr. Frank Thomas, Universität Trier,Fachbereich VI,Abt. Geobotanik, Campus II, Raum H117, Behringstr. 21, D-54296 Trier, e-mail: thomasf@uni-trier.de
Aims of the project: Characterization of photosynthesis capacities and respiration of 5 tree species using a model of leaf gas-exchange (Farquhar et al. 1980). Investigation of the role of tree species diversity for the production of above-ground biomass and nutrient pools. Methods: Gas-exchange measurements using a mobile elevator to reach mature tree canopies. Hemispherical photography; Parameterization of a mechanistic leaf gas-exchange model. Measurement of wood and leaf production, leaf area index, nutrient uptake, and nutrient concentrations.
Aims of the project: To analyse functional roles of ectomycorrhiza in comparison with arbuscular mycorrhiza for N and P uptake and root productivity. Methods: Molecular biology, histochemistry, physiology including application of stable and radioactive isotopes.
A2: Mechanisms driving insect community composition and multitrophic interactions in mixed deciduous forests.
Project leader: Prof. Dr. Teja Tscharntke, Dr. Christoph Scherber, Agroecology, University of Göttingen, Waldweg 26, 37073 Göttingen; E-Mail: ttschar@gwdg.de, christoph.scherber@agr.uni-goettingen.de
Aims of the project: Analyze effects of tree species diversity on insect communities and multitrophic interactions between plants, pollinators, herbivores and their enemies. The work will include quantification of a diversity of interactions and field experiments with a main focus on herbs. Methods: Canopy research by use of a mobile elevator, standardised insect sampling, taxonomy, enclosure experiments, chemical analysis of leaf quality and volatiles.
A3: Mechanisms determining effects of tree species diversity on soil fauna in the rhizosphere and the soil-litter interface Project leader: N.N. (Dr. Christian Platner, Prof. Dr. Matthias Schaefer), Abteilung Ökologie, Johann-Friedrich-Blumenbach-Institut für Zoologie und Anthropologie, Berliner Str. 28, 37073 Göttingen; E-Mail: mschaef@gwdg.de
Aims of the project: Study of the diversity of soil mesofauna and microfauna groups in relation to tree species diversity; analysis of litter decomposition and the carbon translocation between plants, fauna and soil; study of the interactions between microflora and fauna in the rhizosphere and the soil-litter system.
Methods: Sampling of soil fauna; field and lab experimentation; food web and element balance analysis with stable isotopes; measurement of litter decomposition and root exudates.
B1: Mechanisms leading to niche partitioning in carbon and nitrogen uptake between tree species in a mixed deciduous forest
Project leader: Prof. Dr. Leuschner, Plant Ecology, Untere Karspüle 2, 37073 Göttingen, Germany, e-mail: cleusch@gwdg.de; Prof. Dr. Frank Thomas, Universität Trier,Fachbereich VI,Abt. Geobotanik, Campus II, Raum H117, Behringstr. 21, D-54296 Trier, e-mail: thomasf@uni-trier.de
Aims of the project: Characterization of photosynthesis capacities and respiration of 5 tree species using a model of leaf gas-exchange (Farquhar et al. 1980). Investigation of the role of tree species diversity for the production of above-ground biomass and nutrient pools. Methods: Gas-exchange measurements using a mobile elevator to reach mature tree canopies. Hemispherical photography; Parameterization of a mechanistic leaf gas-exchange model. Measurement of wood and leaf production, leaf area index, nutrient uptake, and nutrient concentrations.
B2: Carbon and nitrogen turnover and competition processes in the rhizosphere of deciduous forests with contrasting tree species diversity Project leader: Prof. Dr. Christoph Leuschner, Plant Ecology, University of Göttingen, Untere Karspüle 2, 37073 Göttingen; E-mail: cleusch@gwdg.de
Aims of the project: Investigating the role of tree species diversity and spatial distribution of tree species on the size and structure of the fine root system and its carbon and nitrogen turnover, including root herbivory of the soil fauna.
Methods: Modern techniques of rhizosphere research shall be applied including rhizoscopes, ingrowth cores, 14C-AMS-dating and 15N labelling.
Aims of the project: Investigating the role of tree species diversity and spatial distribution of tree species on the size and structure of the fine root system and its carbon and nitrogen turnover, including root herbivory of the soil fauna.
Methods: Modern techniques of rhizosphere research shall be applied including rhizoscopes, ingrowth cores, 14C-AMS-dating and 15N labelling.
B3: Rainfall partitioning and soil water dynamics in forest stands of different tree species diversity Project leader: Prof. Dr. Dirk Hölscher, Burckhardt Institute, Section of Tropical Silviculture and Forest Ecology, Büsgenweg 1, 37077 Göttingen, Germany; E-mail: dhoelsc@gwdg.de
Aims of the project: To identify mechanisms determining the role of tree species diversity in the forest hydrological cycle. Methods: Measurement of rainfall, throughfall, and soil moisture in the field. Main focus is on data analysis and will include integrative approaches, statistics, and model applications.
B4: Complementarity of water use between 5 tree species in species-rich deciduous forests. Project leader: Prof. Dr. Christoph Leuschner, Plant Ecology, University of Göttingen, Untere Karspüle 2, 37073 Göttingen; E-mail: cleusch@gwdg.de; Dr. Stefan Fleck, sfleck@gwdg.de.
Aims of the project: Species-specific characterization of transpiration and stomatal conductance in relation to climate parameters. Mechanistic analysis of water consumption in tree clusters of variable composition. Methods: Measurement of water flux in tree canopies using a mobile canopy lift. Xylem sap flow measurements and porometry in the canopy. Characterization of cavitation vulnerability. Up-scaling of complementarity effects to the forest stand.
B5: Effects of nutrient cycling through litter of deciduous tree species on soil biochemical properties and the dynamics of C and N in soil.
Project leader: Prof. Dr. Heiner Flessa, Soil Science of Temperate and Boreal Ecosystems, Büsgen Institute, Büsgenweg 2, 37077 Göttingen; E-Mail: hflessa@gwdg.de
Aims of the project: To assess the role of tree litter composition for nutrient availability in soils, neutralisation of soil acidity and the transformation and translocation of carbon and nitrogen in soils.
Methods: Characterization of acidity and nutrient availability in forest soils, determination of the C and N mineralization and immobilization in soils, field experiments in the Hainich National Park, soil incubation studies with 15N labelled tree litter.
B6: Compound specific isotope ratios to trace element flow in diversity clusters.
Project leader: PD Dr. Gerd Gleixner and Prof. Dr. E. Detlef Schulze, Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry, Box 100164, 07701 Jena; E-mail: gerd.gleixner@bgc-jena.mpg.de
Aims of the project: To understand the effect of diversity on the element flow in ecosystems. In the project chemical and isotopic signals of individual molecules isolated from various ecosystem compartments will be analysed in order to follow the flow of applied label at ecosystem interfaces like root/microorganisms, leaf/atmosphere or mineral surfaces/soil organic matter. Methods: Compound specific isotope measurements (GC or LC), GC/MS or LC/MS.
Prerequsites: Chemical background of the candidate is beneficial but not mandatory. Close cooperation to other graduates as a joint research team is necessary.
C1: 3D-light-modelling for tree clusters based on automated structure detection by 3D-laserscanner measurements. Project leader: Dr. Stefan Fleck and Prof. Dr. Christoph Leuschner, Plant Ecology, University of Göttingen, Untere Karspüle 2, 37073 Göttingen; E-mail: cleusch@gwdg.de, sfleck@gwdg.de
Aims of the project: Measurement and Representation of differences in 3D-canopy structure based on automated structure measurements. Using 3D-point clouds for parameterization of a 3D-light model. Simulation of hemispherical photographs at defined positions in the canopy. Comparing light and wind-effects as drivers of shoot growth and competition.
Methods: 3D-laser-scanning, validation measurements using a mobile canopy lift, 3D-data extraction and light modelling
C2:Economic valuation of functional biodiversity and ecosystem services including insurance services
Project leaders: Prof. Dr. Rainer Marggraf & Dr. Jan Barkmann, Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Environmental & Resource Economics, Platz der Göttinger Sieben 5, D-37073 Göttingen (Germany); E-mail: rmarggr@gwdg.de
The following potential research topics of the project will be approached with a choice experiment that represents an extension of the choice experiment methodology of the previous phase (attributes: e.g., CO2 sequestration services, environmental disaster protection): Mental budgeting of stated preference responses on biodiversity protection; comparison of WTP for personal (financial) insurance versus biodiversity as ecological insurance against environmental risks; influence of existence and bequest value motivations or of perceived response efficacy on WTP; influence of previous knowledge on stated preferences for biodiversity and ecosystem services.
C3:Modelling carbon and nutrient turnover of different tree species within mixed stands. Project leader: Prof. Dr. F. Beese, Büsgen Institute, Soil Science of Temperate and Boreal Ecosystems, Büsgenweg 2, D-37077 Göttingen; E-mail: fbeese@gwdg.de and PD E. Priesack, Helmholtz Center München, Institute of Soil Ecology, Ingolstädter Landstr.1, D-85764 Neuherberg, E-mail: priesack@helmholtz-muenchen.de
Aims of the project: Modelling of C- and N-turnover of single tree species within mixed stands. Methods: Measurement of model variables including the use of stable isotopes of C, N, O and H and the determination of tree architectures. Adaptation of single tree models to the specific conditions of the sites. Validation of model results.
Read more...
Aims of the project: To identify mechanisms determining the role of tree species diversity in the forest hydrological cycle. Methods: Measurement of rainfall, throughfall, and soil moisture in the field. Main focus is on data analysis and will include integrative approaches, statistics, and model applications.
B4: Complementarity of water use between 5 tree species in species-rich deciduous forests. Project leader: Prof. Dr. Christoph Leuschner, Plant Ecology, University of Göttingen, Untere Karspüle 2, 37073 Göttingen; E-mail: cleusch@gwdg.de; Dr. Stefan Fleck, sfleck@gwdg.de.
Aims of the project: Species-specific characterization of transpiration and stomatal conductance in relation to climate parameters. Mechanistic analysis of water consumption in tree clusters of variable composition. Methods: Measurement of water flux in tree canopies using a mobile canopy lift. Xylem sap flow measurements and porometry in the canopy. Characterization of cavitation vulnerability. Up-scaling of complementarity effects to the forest stand.
B5: Effects of nutrient cycling through litter of deciduous tree species on soil biochemical properties and the dynamics of C and N in soil.
Project leader: Prof. Dr. Heiner Flessa, Soil Science of Temperate and Boreal Ecosystems, Büsgen Institute, Büsgenweg 2, 37077 Göttingen; E-Mail: hflessa@gwdg.de
Aims of the project: To assess the role of tree litter composition for nutrient availability in soils, neutralisation of soil acidity and the transformation and translocation of carbon and nitrogen in soils.
Methods: Characterization of acidity and nutrient availability in forest soils, determination of the C and N mineralization and immobilization in soils, field experiments in the Hainich National Park, soil incubation studies with 15N labelled tree litter.
B6: Compound specific isotope ratios to trace element flow in diversity clusters.
Project leader: PD Dr. Gerd Gleixner and Prof. Dr. E. Detlef Schulze, Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry, Box 100164, 07701 Jena; E-mail: gerd.gleixner@bgc-jena.mpg.de
Aims of the project: To understand the effect of diversity on the element flow in ecosystems. In the project chemical and isotopic signals of individual molecules isolated from various ecosystem compartments will be analysed in order to follow the flow of applied label at ecosystem interfaces like root/microorganisms, leaf/atmosphere or mineral surfaces/soil organic matter. Methods: Compound specific isotope measurements (GC or LC), GC/MS or LC/MS.
Prerequsites: Chemical background of the candidate is beneficial but not mandatory. Close cooperation to other graduates as a joint research team is necessary.
C1: 3D-light-modelling for tree clusters based on automated structure detection by 3D-laserscanner measurements. Project leader: Dr. Stefan Fleck and Prof. Dr. Christoph Leuschner, Plant Ecology, University of Göttingen, Untere Karspüle 2, 37073 Göttingen; E-mail: cleusch@gwdg.de, sfleck@gwdg.de
Aims of the project: Measurement and Representation of differences in 3D-canopy structure based on automated structure measurements. Using 3D-point clouds for parameterization of a 3D-light model. Simulation of hemispherical photographs at defined positions in the canopy. Comparing light and wind-effects as drivers of shoot growth and competition.
Methods: 3D-laser-scanning, validation measurements using a mobile canopy lift, 3D-data extraction and light modelling
C2:Economic valuation of functional biodiversity and ecosystem services including insurance services
Project leaders: Prof. Dr. Rainer Marggraf & Dr. Jan Barkmann, Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Environmental & Resource Economics, Platz der Göttinger Sieben 5, D-37073 Göttingen (Germany); E-mail: rmarggr@gwdg.de
The following potential research topics of the project will be approached with a choice experiment that represents an extension of the choice experiment methodology of the previous phase (attributes: e.g., CO2 sequestration services, environmental disaster protection): Mental budgeting of stated preference responses on biodiversity protection; comparison of WTP for personal (financial) insurance versus biodiversity as ecological insurance against environmental risks; influence of existence and bequest value motivations or of perceived response efficacy on WTP; influence of previous knowledge on stated preferences for biodiversity and ecosystem services.
C3:Modelling carbon and nutrient turnover of different tree species within mixed stands. Project leader: Prof. Dr. F. Beese, Büsgen Institute, Soil Science of Temperate and Boreal Ecosystems, Büsgenweg 2, D-37077 Göttingen; E-mail: fbeese@gwdg.de and PD E. Priesack, Helmholtz Center München, Institute of Soil Ecology, Ingolstädter Landstr.1, D-85764 Neuherberg, E-mail: priesack@helmholtz-muenchen.de
Aims of the project: Modelling of C- and N-turnover of single tree species within mixed stands. Methods: Measurement of model variables including the use of stable isotopes of C, N, O and H and the determination of tree architectures. Adaptation of single tree models to the specific conditions of the sites. Validation of model results.
Tuesday, 22 January 2008
Narayan Gopal - Kehi Mitho Baat Gara
Wonderful song on the original voice of voice king Narayan Gopal.
Children are ill since long time
Our childre have been sick due to change in weather. Ravi, Avi,Agrima all became ill in these two weeks. Avi has severe bronchitis. Ravi and Agrima had severe fever and infections. But, with the treatment, all they recovered now.
In the video clips, Avi has been crying just before taking blood sample. He has afraid off piercing the skin. Looks like the funny clip!
Kehi Mitho Baat Gara............originally by Narayan Gopal...
This is the very popular song by NARAYAN GOPAL. He has been considered all time best singer in Nepal, popularly believed as the boyfriend of former Queen Aishwarya during their college time at Darjeeling, India. Afterward, this story were unsung but many time, Narayan Gopal sung the song written by Chadani Shah (Queen Aishwarya). "Euta Manchhe ko Mayale kati farak Pardachha jiunu ma" What a difference is made by the love of one person, was considered as she wrote in the memory of her love to Narayan Gopal. It has no strong proof but......
Kehi mitho Bat Gar (Talk about few sweet words) is the one of the best song by him. It is too difficult to sing since the word, feelings and expression on the song is too difficult to sing.
Aashajee, as the student of music, has been trying to imitate the all time master of music Narayan Gopal. She needs lots of improvement and dedication to the music if she thinks to work on the subject in future. We wish all the best to her.
TIF student visited Sabang Islands
Student from Tropical and International Forestry popularly known as TIF, Georg August University visited Banda Aceh and beautiful Sabang Island in November, 2007.
TIF student in Jakarta, Indonesia
Some funny moments shared by TIF students in Jakarta at the national monument park. Zummy, Rodine, Jinghui Meng and myself were there.
Monday, 21 January 2008
Tada Huda yo Man.............
This is the song written by rajendra k.c. in the Jakarta International Airport. The words are not so perfect however it tries to express the love and affection, and ignorance of expression it in practice.
Without music and the noises made by children, the song looks somewhat sweet however there is lots space for improvement.
Very popular song by Vocal King Narayan Gopal, imitated by Aashajee
This is the very popular song by NARAYAN GOPAL. He has been considered all time best singer in Nepal, popularly believed as the boyfriend of former Queen Aishwarya during their college time at Darjeeling, India. Afterward, this story were unsung but many time, Narayan Gopal sung the song written by Chadani Shah (Queen Aishwarya). "Euta Manchhe ko Mayale kati farak Pardachha jiunu ma" What a difference is made by the love of one person, was considered as she wrote in the memory of her love to Narayan Gopal. It has no strong proof but......
Kehi mitho Bat Gar (Talk about few sweet words) is the one of the best song by him. It is too difficult to sing since the word, feelings and expression on the song is too difficult to sing.
Aashajee, as the student of music, has been trying to imitate the all time master of music Narayan Gopal. She needs lots of improvement and dedication to the music if she thinks to work on the subject in future. We wish all the best to her.
Sunday, 20 January 2008
Our flight to Indonesia: the Kuwait Air
This is one of the popular airlines in Gulf but the service and crew members are not seemed qualified professional. We have experienced it in flight from Frankfurt to Kuwait-Kualalumpur-Jakarta and Jakarta-Kualalumpur-Kuwait- Frankfurt route.
Loktantra ako chhaina
The sweet and melodious song by Badri Pangeni and Anjana Gurung. In the song, they talk about why we need to work more towards republicanism and democracy. Must to see song.
Friday, 18 January 2008
Stomata in the needle of Pinus merkusii
These photos are taken with Axioplan Microscope with mounted Axiocamera. The magnification varies from 2.5 times to 40 times. The Stomata is shrunk already due to dry needles. The Stomata photographed were from upper (Abaxial) part of needle. The density of stomata is estimated as 28 stomata per square mm.Thursday, 17 January 2008
Dinesh Thapa: Highly Dedicated Civilian to Improve the Forest and Livehood
Forgotten Hero: Dinesh Thapa (Sarlahi, Nepal):
When I used to remember my days working at the Sarlahi District Forest Office, I have plenty of important events, people, incidents to remember. During my 10 years of professional jobs working as the Forest Officer, in N
epal, I have encountered many people, and faced many problems. Some characters are quite good and some are bad enough to remember however both of these character have strong impressions to me. During my jobs, I have served mostly in Dang, Achham, Sarlahi and Doti ranging from Terai to High hills. Many people including fellow staffs seniors and subordinate, politician, social worker, journalists were interacted. Some people are very supportive to me. They have shown great trust to me. They believed me in the exteme cases. They never thought that I can lie and do bad. They had blind faith on me. I was believed even when I was wrong. Some people are very critical. Some are very biased. For them, whatever good we used to do, they used to find mistakes on it. Between these two extreme, I have some important memory working with two noteable characters in the Sarlahi. They were shown their great support and faith on me when I was doing right for the development of forestry sector and upliftment of people's livelihood. And, on the following days, when some thing wrong occured due to policy lag behind, they didnot sit behind from protesting me. Working with these kinds of people, supporting good activities and strongly opposing the weaknesses and mistakes, used to be the source of motivation and encouragement to me and others.
epal, I have encountered many people, and faced many problems. Some characters are quite good and some are bad enough to remember however both of these character have strong impressions to me. During my jobs, I have served mostly in Dang, Achham, Sarlahi and Doti ranging from Terai to High hills. Many people including fellow staffs seniors and subordinate, politician, social worker, journalists were interacted. Some people are very supportive to me. They have shown great trust to me. They believed me in the exteme cases. They never thought that I can lie and do bad. They had blind faith on me. I was believed even when I was wrong. Some people are very critical. Some are very biased. For them, whatever good we used to do, they used to find mistakes on it. Between these two extreme, I have some important memory working with two noteable characters in the Sarlahi. They were shown their great support and faith on me when I was doing right for the development of forestry sector and upliftment of people's livelihood. And, on the following days, when some thing wrong occured due to policy lag behind, they didnot sit behind from protesting me. Working with these kinds of people, supporting good activities and strongly opposing the weaknesses and mistakes, used to be the source of motivation and encouragement to me and others.This time, I will talk about a Old man who is around 55 years old, but he is so energetic, he left us behind in many cases. The name of this 55 years young(!) 
man is Dinesh Thapa (Chhetri). He is old but he was always ready to work for the people and for the forest. He has been backed with strong public support. He was the elected chairperson of Bihani Community Forestry User Group, Murtiya-3, Sarlahi. This place lies around 14 kilometer south from East West Highway. They fought several years with district forest office demanding the hand over of Community Forest to user group. Many DFOs, AFO, Rangers provided plain words to them bud didnot hand over the rights to manage their forests by themselves. They rallied, protested, advocated but the District Forest Office, didnot hear their voice. The DFO were not able to convince their fellow staffs to hand over the forest to the community. Handover of the forest to user group is loosing their rights.
man is Dinesh Thapa (Chhetri). He is old but he was always ready to work for the people and for the forest. He has been backed with strong public support. He was the elected chairperson of Bihani Community Forestry User Group, Murtiya-3, Sarlahi. This place lies around 14 kilometer south from East West Highway. They fought several years with district forest office demanding the hand over of Community Forest to user group. Many DFOs, AFO, Rangers provided plain words to them bud didnot hand over the rights to manage their forests by themselves. They rallied, protested, advocated but the District Forest Office, didnot hear their voice. The DFO were not able to convince their fellow staffs to hand over the forest to the community. Handover of the forest to user group is loosing their rights.One day, we became able to hand over the forest to 4 different user groups. I used to remember the day, when we fought against the illegal pressure from local maoist (then rebellion) and manage
d to hand over four community forests to 4 different users groups of that region. On the day of handover, there were big rally organised in support of District Forest Office. People were decorated us with the garlands of flowers. They chanted slogan in favour of us and our office. The people who were extreme against of the office, were honoring us and chanting loud slogans for us! what a change! That shows their respect can be won if we work for them.
d to hand over four community forests to 4 different users groups of that region. On the day of handover, there were big rally organised in support of District Forest Office. People were decorated us with the garlands of flowers. They chanted slogan in favour of us and our office. The people who were extreme against of the office, were honoring us and chanting loud slogans for us! what a change! That shows their respect can be won if we work for them.Unknowingly I deviated from the topic. Sorry for that!
After hand over, these 22 hactare of forest (90% Dalbergia sissoo plantation), they were conserving and managing forest prudentally. They have allocated land to all 73 members of their user groups to grow improved grass. Dinesh Thapa brought seeds and seedlings from several places and grew their and distributed to all members freely. His endeavors worked out. People, mostly farmers, are getting higher quality grasses to their livestock which increases the productivity of their livestock. Once milk dry zone of Sarlahi, is now selling milk to the surrounding villages. The coverage and diversity of forest have been tremendously improved in short times. Once disappeared 22 species of NTFPs were reappeared there. That might be retrogression or Succesion in Ecological term. His Community Forest Used to be visited by Academicians, Foresters, Social worker and others as the open university for the forestry and livelihood improvements. He has vision and courage to materialize his vision into field. He has inspired the true empowerment of women and Madhesis since long time.
Besides, he leased out barren land from Sagarnath Forestry Development Projects and cultivated Citronella, Pamarossa, Chamommile and Asparagus. He has been involved all the poor people of that region on the cultivation of it. He was expecting the upliftment of the poors livelihood with the production of high demanded NTFPs.
He has been inspiring other people to work and unite for the community forestry. He inpired many to grow NTFPs in their land and in forest too.
Moreover, he was phenomenal to stop the illegal encroachment and smuggling of forest products from that regions. This regions was quite notorious for illegal smuggling of forest products, but now this is almost peace zone without no illegal activities. All these credit goes to Dinesh Thapa, who spent tolls and toils to the betterment of forestry and the people. He was nicknamed as Ban Thapa (Forest Thapa) for his involvement in this sector. He has been honouring by several organisation including District Forest Office, FECOFUN and several NGOs and civil society. Everybody is willing to acquire good name via his hard work and fame. This short memory might follow the same intention. My salutation goes to him.
(Please write me about your experience with any other such a motivational man! )
Wednesday, 16 January 2008
Kiran Chhetry : An Exclusive Interview with her
Kiran Chhetry (32), is a rising star of cable television news in the United States. She began co-anchoring American Morning, CNN's flagship morning program in April 2007. Before that she co-hosted "Fox and Friends" on the Fox News Channel. She is based in New York. In an interview with Dharma Adhikari of Nepal Monitor, she discusses her recent career transition, her connection to Nepal, and in particular, her views about broadcast journalism.Let’s start with the recent convention of Nepali journalists in Washington DC. How was it unique in the sense that it was the first such meeting of Nepali journalists in North America?
Answer: I really commend everyone that put that together. It is really great to be able to come together as journalists, especially of the same nationality, people with common concerns and common interests in covering the news. It’s great that they were able to organize like that. I was very honored to be invited to speak and it was also really interesting to hear some of the other speakers.
I think that it’s a small but growing community here in America and it’s wonderful that the journalists’ society was able to put that together. I think it was a great thing and I hope it will be the beginning of a very long annual tradition. Hopefully it will continue to grow, and more people will get involved.
You recently moved to CNN from Fox News. How has the transition been for you, so far?
I think that it’s a small but growing community here in America and it’s wonderful that the journalists’ society was able to put that together. I think it was a great thing and I hope it will be the beginning of a very long annual tradition. Hopefully it will continue to grow, and more people will get involved.
You recently moved to CNN from Fox News. How has the transition been for you, so far?
Answer: We started off with the tragedy of Virginia Tech – it was our first day on air when that story broke and we’ve also been covering a lot of politics following the debates and a lot of breaking news in the morning. And the best thing about 
CNN is that we have global resources. We were able to do interviews and get reports from the only Western television journalist in Iran. We were able to have on the ground, real-time reports from Baghdad. I feel people who watch American Morning are going to get a very comprehensive view of the news— everything that is going on around the world and also very important things that happen here in the US. Being a part of that, to me, it is an honor.
How do you define and describe the nature of news in today’s world-- the difference between hard news and light news, particularly after your transition from Fox News. CNN is considered more to be hard news-oriented. Isn’t it?
CNN is that we have global resources. We were able to do interviews and get reports from the only Western television journalist in Iran. We were able to have on the ground, real-time reports from Baghdad. I feel people who watch American Morning are going to get a very comprehensive view of the news— everything that is going on around the world and also very important things that happen here in the US. Being a part of that, to me, it is an honor.How do you define and describe the nature of news in today’s world-- the difference between hard news and light news, particularly after your transition from Fox News. CNN is considered more to be hard news-oriented. Isn’t it?
Answer: I think that there is a broad definition of news, certainly. We take into consideration the top stories of the day, whether they are international, politics, unexpected breaking news about weather or a murder or something like a shift in policy. We have been doing a lot of immigration issues, we have also been doing a lot of issues, in fact, on American Morning about Asian Americans in the workplace and we have a special correspondent doing that type of work. So I think we have a very broad definition of what news is.
And this is about being a “South Asian.” Because you don’t really seem like a South Asian unless somebody does some research on you! There are very few South Asians actually doing major shows on cable television in the US. What does being a “South Asian” mean to you?
Answer: I define it in a more narrow term. I feel that being half-Nepalese is my heritage, something I have always grown up being proud of and living with. It’s never been something that I dwell on a lot; I think that it’s just my life, it’s who my family is, it’s who my father is. My cousins, many of them that are my age, are here in the US, either studying or now have jobs here. And that is just a part of our culture. And I have lived straddling both. But you are right, when people look at me they don’t necessarily say, “Wow, Kiran must be Asian” or “Kiran must be from Nepal.” But I think that when you get to really know me and you spend any time with my family, you see what an influence it is. Since my father is from Nepal and that is what I grew up around. It’s just me. And there are not a lot of South Asians, if you want to put it that way, that are represented in the news. However, there are a lot more at CNN, which is interesting. We have our special correspondent Sanjay Gupta, also Betty Nguyen, who is on our air and Alina Cho, one of our American Morning correspondents. All of them are Asian, or South Asian. So I think it is wonderful to be able to see more faces of diversity. And, I am one of them, even though I may not look like I am! I think I understand what being part of the Asian culture is like, not to put everybody into one big generalization. But I definitely understand a perspective because it is part of how I grew up.
How would you describe the nature of your connection to Nepal today?
How would you describe the nature of your connection to Nepal today?
Answer: It’s my family. Many of them come back and forth a lot. And a lot of them are, like I said, studying here in the States. And my father’s brothers are also here as well as my cousins. In fact, I recently met one of my cousins in New York. I last saw her when I was thirteen, when I last went to Nepal. It’s great to be able to catch up with family. I am hoping to go back to Nepal. I am hoping to be able to take my daughter with me, who is only 15 months now, so when she is a little bit older she can have some memories as well like I did. Because the first time I went after I was born was when I was 7 and I still vividly remember Nepal. When I went back when I was 13, it was so different. And I am sure now when I go back it is going to be even more changed.
What stories on Nepal or South Asia would you put on your show, if you were visiting there and reporting from location?
What stories on Nepal or South Asia would you put on your show, if you were visiting there and reporting from location?
Answer: One of the things is the attempt at the emerging democracy. Also the goings on in parliament and the first time voting on the Constituent Assembly. Of course, we have been following the situation with the Maoists and the difficulties. My father did a lot of interpreting for the courts for asylum here for people who were persecuted or who were fearing persecution and had been threatened by the Maoists. I think that’s something that would be very interesting to cover -- to follow one of those cases so people can understand what is going on there. And of course, the elections, which everybody has been following, including the Carter Center and others about the potential for the peace process, and the political negotiations that are going on for the future.
About your mother’s ethnicity-- where is she from?
About your mother’s ethnicity-- where is she from?
Answer: My maternal grandmother was Ukrainian. The other quarter is a mixture of Dutch and German. But my mother’s mother’s parents were the first ones to come over to the United States from Ukraine. And they came to Pennsylvania. They had 9 children. My grandmother was the oldest. She grew up in a household that was also very ethnic. Her parents spoke very little English and the kids were the first generation raised here in America.
Now a few professional questions. What are some of the key characteristics of a good broadcast journalist?
Now a few professional questions. What are some of the key characteristics of a good broadcast journalist?
Answer: First of all, you have to have curiosity about the world around you. You have to have the ability to communicate, of course, just like you would if you are a print journalist - it is just slightly different. You have to be able to be not only curious but willing to spend a lot of time trying to put what you are saying into context, because reporting a story is reading what is going on and helping the audience, the viewer, the reader, understand it and put it into perspective in the world around them. How it relates to them is also something that is important. It is also important, I believe, to be a good listener so that you can hear what people are telling you, and you can learn from the world around you. Every time we interview someone, it is an opportunity to learn something new and to hear a different perspective. The best thing about the job, I believe, is that you are able to bring so much information to people. They call it the newsgathering process and that is true, because we are everywhere. As members of the media, we inform our fellow citizens, whether world-wide citizens or in the US and we can’t take that lightly. We are informing those around us so that they can make decisions when it comes to their lives, when it comes to their views. And I find that endlessly fascinating. Everyday, there is something new.
What is your view about the significance of personal, physical look in broadcast news? You have been rated #3 among “TV’s Sexiest News Anchors” by Maxim magazine.
What is your view about the significance of personal, physical look in broadcast news? You have been rated #3 among “TV’s Sexiest News Anchors” by Maxim magazine.
Answer: (Laughs) I try not to pay too much attention to that kind of stuff or take it too seriously. You know, it’s television, so, of course, there is a focus that people sometimes have on someone’s appearance. I think sometimes they focus more on the appearance of women - as we see it with Katie Couric. She certainly gets picked apart a little more about her appearance than her male counterparts. But I try not to put too much stock in that.
Who is your role model in television?
Who is your role model in television?
Answer:There are many people. Just to name a few, I would definitely say Peter Jennings. He is somebody I grew up watching, and I really admire his style of delivering the news. You felt like he was having a conversation with you, never talking down to you. And I think it is important that you give the audience credit for being intelligent and informed. And when you are delivering the news of the day it is important to make sure that you keep that in mind - that you don’t necessarily know more than everybody else. I also like Peter Jennings a lot because I met him in person when I was very young and was trying to get into the television business and he was somebody who was very kind. I was an intern at that time in a little cable station. I also really admire people like Diane Sawyer. She has been in the business for so long in so many different ways and she still brings a lot of energy. I really find that admirable.
Your father, Homa Chetry, briefly worked for the Voice of America radio during the 1970s. How has he influenced your career in journalism?
Your father, Homa Chetry, briefly worked for the Voice of America radio during the 1970s. How has he influenced your career in journalism?
Answer: My father was very supportive of what I wanted to do. There are careers that people are extremely interested in. No one would ever say to you: Don’t become a doctor. Because being a doctor has a lot of pride and status associated with it, and once you work really hard and get through school you have guaranteed employment for life. And that is something that’s very important especially when someone can understand the immigrant experience— when you come over to the United States and you have very little and you build into what you eventually have. You want to pass on to your children something even more than that. My parents were so encouraging about seeing through that I had everything I needed to get an education. But I think that part of them was a little bit nervous about the thought of me going into television news, because, as we know, this is a very unstable business, especially when you are in front of the camera. You do your best and you move up. But there are people who never make it as far as they want to go.
I remember being at school and my dad asking me: Are you sure this is what you really want to do? And then he realized how much I loved it. My parents supported me by driving me up to Erie, Pensylvania for my first commercial television job. I remember they helped me move on a hot August day when it was 95 degrees. They supported me when I moved to California to take a TV job.
It makes me feel good to know that both my parents are proud of me and they know the things they have given up are also the great rewards of being able to do something that you love like TV journalism. The fact that I ended up at CNN - they see that as a dream fulfilled.
So far, what have been your most challenging assignments and some interesting ones?
I remember being at school and my dad asking me: Are you sure this is what you really want to do? And then he realized how much I loved it. My parents supported me by driving me up to Erie, Pensylvania for my first commercial television job. I remember they helped me move on a hot August day when it was 95 degrees. They supported me when I moved to California to take a TV job.
It makes me feel good to know that both my parents are proud of me and they know the things they have given up are also the great rewards of being able to do something that you love like TV journalism. The fact that I ended up at CNN - they see that as a dream fulfilled.
So far, what have been your most challenging assignments and some interesting ones?
Answer: The challenging assignments are the things where you see people suffering and there is nothing that you can do to help them. You are bringing their stories out in hopes that other people can see what they are going through and can feel for them. My assignment after 9/11 was covering the victims’ families and we were out there every single day. Not knowing if they could pull anybody out, family members were walking around with pictures of their loved ones and day after day it was very difficult. The Virginia Tech shooting is another example. I interviewed a lot of family members who had lost loved ones. I put myself in their shoes and imagined what it would be like if, God forbid, my dad had to go through that. It was very difficult, especially seeing that situation unfold.
Sometimes, let’s say, you are interviewing someone in a position of power within the government and you are trying to get answers. Of course, they don’t want to always be completely forthcoming. And so sometimes you have that back and forth. I always think to myself when I am doing interviews: What do the people watching at home right now want me to get out of this interview? What do they want me to ask? It’s always very challenging but I love doing it, the whole process of newsgathering, whether you are out in the field or conducting a live interview in studio.
One of the criticisms of the US media is that they pay little attention to international affairs, specially the US-based TV programs. And also the criticism about the coverage of minorities—it is not always accurate. How do you look at this?
Sometimes, let’s say, you are interviewing someone in a position of power within the government and you are trying to get answers. Of course, they don’t want to always be completely forthcoming. And so sometimes you have that back and forth. I always think to myself when I am doing interviews: What do the people watching at home right now want me to get out of this interview? What do they want me to ask? It’s always very challenging but I love doing it, the whole process of newsgathering, whether you are out in the field or conducting a live interview in studio.
One of the criticisms of the US media is that they pay little attention to international affairs, specially the US-based TV programs. And also the criticism about the coverage of minorities—it is not always accurate. How do you look at this?
Answer: I think that the US news media does cover US stories and sometimes centers around things that perhaps affect a small number of people or focus on one missing person, let’s say, when there is so much other news happening. But I think that CNN covers global issues better than anyone else, frankly, not only with the coverage of CNN domestic but also CNN International. We are some of the only people that have correspondents and bureaus all over the world, including in Africa and Asia. I think we are better at it than others.
In terms of minorities and television, no doubt, there is an under-representation. I don’t think it is intentional, but that it is something that many news organizations are moving toward becoming more mindful of and taking steps to change in the future.
As a broadcast journalist, how do you keep tab on international affairs?
In terms of minorities and television, no doubt, there is an under-representation. I don’t think it is intentional, but that it is something that many news organizations are moving toward becoming more mindful of and taking steps to change in the future.
As a broadcast journalist, how do you keep tab on international affairs?
Answer: We always have CNN International, CNN en Español, Headline News and CNN on. Of course, we have the wires and feeds that are coming in continuously. These are video feeds where you get information on various stories. And we rely on our producers as well to flag interesting things. This is a 24/7 operation. News stories breaking around the world are monitored at all times and drawn to our attention. Of course, you can’t always cover it all but we certainly have resources at our fingertips so we are always able to keep abreast and cover the different stories.
So it is just a matter of reading—I get a lot of the big newspapers in the morning stacked on to my desk. We also have them right at our computers; we can watch video that is available to CNN at all times. The Internet also plays an enormous role in broadening our world and making us aware of other things that are going on across the world.
What suggestions do you have for young people, specially from South Asia, who would like to embrace broadcast journalism as their career, and who are looking up to you right now ? That is the ultimate complement that people would say: Maybe someday I can do what she is doing.
So it is just a matter of reading—I get a lot of the big newspapers in the morning stacked on to my desk. We also have them right at our computers; we can watch video that is available to CNN at all times. The Internet also plays an enormous role in broadening our world and making us aware of other things that are going on across the world.
What suggestions do you have for young people, specially from South Asia, who would like to embrace broadcast journalism as their career, and who are looking up to you right now ? That is the ultimate complement that people would say: Maybe someday I can do what she is doing.
Answer: I believe you have to love it because it does take up a lot of your life. I mean, it does, just like when you decided you wanted to become a doctor or whatever you want to become. So you have to love it. You have to want to do it not just for fame or anything like that.
I never in my wildest dreams imagined I would be here at CNN after years of anchoring in really small markets and wondering if I was going to advance. I think you have to be well-read and you have to be curious. The most important thing I can say really is to do an internship, learning from other people that do it and finding people who are willing to take the time. One thing I always say is if anybody wanted to come learn from me, follow me around, or wrote to me asking advice, I would always try to help them out, especially young people that are deciding what they want to do or deciding the best way to go. The reason I say that is because I had people who helped me. You can’t do it alone. You can’t do it without people guiding you. And that early guidance helped me, I’ll always remember, and that is something I want to pass along to others as well.
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I never in my wildest dreams imagined I would be here at CNN after years of anchoring in really small markets and wondering if I was going to advance. I think you have to be well-read and you have to be curious. The most important thing I can say really is to do an internship, learning from other people that do it and finding people who are willing to take the time. One thing I always say is if anybody wanted to come learn from me, follow me around, or wrote to me asking advice, I would always try to help them out, especially young people that are deciding what they want to do or deciding the best way to go. The reason I say that is because I had people who helped me. You can’t do it alone. You can’t do it without people guiding you. And that early guidance helped me, I’ll always remember, and that is something I want to pass along to others as well.
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