Wind energy
Wind energy is the kinetic energy associated with the movement of atmospheric air. It has been used for hundreds of years for sailing, grinding grain, and for irrigation. Wind energy systems convert this kinetic energy to more useful forms of power. Wind energy systems for irrigation and milling have been in use since ancient times and since the beginning of the 20th century it is being used to generate electric power. Windmills for water pumping have been installed in many countries particularly in the rural areas.
Wind turbines transform the energy in the wind into mechanical power, which can then be used directly for grinding etc. or further converting to electric power to generate electricity. Wind turbines can be used singly or in clusters called wind farms. Small wind turbines called aero-generators can be used to charge large batteries.
Five nations Germany, USA, Denmark, Spain and India account for 80% of the worlds installed wind energy capacity. Wind energy continues to be the fastest growing renewable energy source with worldwide wind power installed capacity reaching 14,000 MW.
Realizing the growing importance of wind energy, manufacturers have steadily been increasing the unit size of the wind electric generators since the late 1980s. Another important development has been the offshore (i.e. in the sea) wind farms in some regions of Europe, which have several advantages over the on-shore ones. The third major development has been the use of new techniques to assess the wind resource for techno-commercial viability.
In India the states of Tamilnadu and Gujarat lead in the field of wind energy. At the end of March 2000 India had 1080-MWs capacity wind farms, of which Tamilnadu contributed 770-MW capacity. Gujarat has 167MW followed by Andhra Pradesh, which has 88 MW installed wind farms.There are about a dozen wind pumps of various designs providing water for agriculture, afforestation, and domestic purposes, all scattered over the country.
The design of the Auroville multi-blade windmill has evolved from the practical experience gained in operating these mills over a period of 20 years or so. It has a high tripod tower and its double-action pump increases water output by about 60% compared to the conventional single-action pumps.
Information Technology and Natural Disaster Management in India.
1. Introduction
It is a well known fact that natural disasters strikes countries, both developed and developing, causing enormous destruction and creating human sufferings and producing negative impacts on national economies. Due to diverse geo-climatic conditions prevalent in different parts of the globe, different types of natural disasters like floods, droughts, earthquakes, cyclones, landslides, volcanoes, etc. strikes according to the vulnerability of the area. India is considered as the world's most disaster prone country. It has witnessed devastating natural disasters in recent past like droughts, floods, cyclones, earthquakes, landslides, etc.
2. Natural Disasters in India
India is a large country and prone to a number of natural hazards. Among all the natural disasters that country faces, river floods are the most frequent and often devastating. The shortfall in the rainfall cause droughts or drought like situation in various parts of the country. The country has faced some severe earthquakes causing widespread damage to the life and property. India has a coastline of about 8000 km which is prone to very severe cyclonic formations in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. Another major problem faced by the country is in the form of landslides and avalanches.
With an increase in the perception towards spreading a culture of prevention in the disaster management scenario, considerable emphasis is now being placed on research and development activities in the area of information technology for disaster preparedness and prevention. This has brought in a significant positive change even though the multitude and frequency of disasters in the country has increased.
3. Application of Information Technology in Disaster Management
Though it is not possible to completely avoid the natural disasters, but the sufferings can be minimised by creating proper awareness of the likely disasters and its impact by developing a suitable warning system, disaster preparedness and management of disasters through application of information technology tools. The changing trends have opened up a large number of scientific and technological resources and skills to reduce disaster risk. The IT tools are discussed below:-
3.1 GIS and Remote Sensing
GIS provides a tool for effective and efficient storage and manipulation of remotely sensed data and other spatial and non-spatial data types for both scientific management and policy oriented information. This can be used to facilitate measurement, mapping, monitoring and modelling of variety of data types related to natural phenomenon. The specific GIS application in the field of Risk Assessment are:- Hazard Mapping to show earthquake, landslides, floods or fire hazards. Thses map could be created for cities, districts or even for the entire country and tropical cyclone Threat Maps are used by meteorological departments to improve the quality of the tropical storm warning services and quickly communicate the risk to the people likely to get affected by the cyclone.
Remote sensing makes observation of any object from a distance and without coming into actual contact. Remote sensing can gather data much faster than ground based observation, can cover large area at one time to give a synoptic view. Remote sensing comprises Aerial Remote Sensing which is the process of recording information, such as photographs and images from sensor on aircrafts and Satellite Remote Sensing which consists of several satellite remote sensing system which can be used to integrate natural hazard assessments into development planning studies.These are: Landsat, SPOT Satellite, Satellite Radar System, Advanced Very High Resolution Radio. Some application of GIS and Remote Sensing in various disasters are as follows:-
3.1.1 Drought
GIS and Remote Sensing can be used in drought relief management such as early warnings of drought conditions will help to plan out the strategies to organise relief work. Satellite data may be used to target potential ground water sites for taking up well-digging programmes. Satellite data provides valuable tools for evaluating areas subject to desertification. Film transparencies, photographs and digital data can be used for the purpose of locating, assessing and monitoring deterioration of natural conditions in a given area.
3.1.2 Earthquake
GIS and Remote Sensing can be used for preparing seismic hazards maps in order to assess the exact nature of risks.
3.1.3 Floods
Satellite data can be effectively used for mapping and monitoring the flood inundated areas, flood damage assessment, flood hazard zoning and post-flood survey of rivers configuration and protection works.
3.1.4 Landslides
Landslide zonation map comprise a map demarcating the stretches or area of varying degree of anticipated slope stability or instability. The map has an inbuilt element of forecasting and is hence of probabilistic nature. Depending upon the methodology adopted and the comprehensiveness of the input data used, a landslide hazard zonation map able to provide help concerning location,-extent of the slop area likely to be affected, and rate of mass movement of the slope mass.
3.1.5 Search and Rescue
GIS can be used in carrying out search and rescue operations in a more effective manner by identifying areas that are disasters prone and zoning them accordingly to risk magnitudes.
3.2 Internet
In the present era of electronic communication, the internet provides a useful platform for disaster mitigation communications. Launching of a well defined web site is a very cost-effective means of making an intra-national and international presence felt. It provides a new and potentially revolutionary option for the rapid, automatic, and global dissemination of disaster information. A number of individuals and groups, including several national meteorological services, are experimenting with the Internet for real-time dissemination of weather observation, forecasts, satellite and other data. In the most critical phase of natural disasters electronic communication have provided the most effective and in some instances perhaps the only means of communication with the outside world.
4 Warning and Forecasting System
An advance system of forecasting, monitoring and issuing early warnings plays the most significant role in determining whether a natural hazard will assume disastrous proportions or not. The country have the following forecasting systems:
4.1 Indian Meteorological Department (IMD)
IMD provides cyclone warnings from the Area Cyclone Warning Centres (ACWCs) It has developed the necessary infrastructure to originate and disseminate the cyclone warnings at appropriate levels. It has made operational a satellite based communication system called Cyclone Warning Dissemination System for direct dissemination of cyclone warnings to the cyclone prone coastal areas. IMD runs operationally a Limited-area Analysis and Forecast System (LAFS), based on an Optimal Interpretation (OI) analysis and a limited area Primitive Equation (PE) model, to provide numerical guidance.
To be continued.....
1. Introduction
It is a well known fact that natural disasters strikes countries, both developed and developing, causing enormous destruction and creating human sufferings and producing negative impacts on national economies. Due to diverse geo-climatic conditions prevalent in different parts of the globe, different types of natural disasters like floods, droughts, earthquakes, cyclones, landslides, volcanoes, etc. strikes according to the vulnerability of the area. India is considered as the world's most disaster prone country. It has witnessed devastating natural disasters in recent past like droughts, floods, cyclones, earthquakes, landslides, etc.
2. Natural Disasters in India
India is a large country and prone to a number of natural hazards. Among all the natural disasters that country faces, river floods are the most frequent and often devastating. The shortfall in the rainfall cause droughts or drought like situation in various parts of the country. The country has faced some severe earthquakes causing widespread damage to the life and property. India has a coastline of about 8000 km which is prone to very severe cyclonic formations in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. Another major problem faced by the country is in the form of landslides and avalanches.
With an increase in the perception towards spreading a culture of prevention in the disaster management scenario, considerable emphasis is now being placed on research and development activities in the area of information technology for disaster preparedness and prevention. This has brought in a significant positive change even though the multitude and frequency of disasters in the country has increased.
3. Application of Information Technology in Disaster Management
Though it is not possible to completely avoid the natural disasters, but the sufferings can be minimised by creating proper awareness of the likely disasters and its impact by developing a suitable warning system, disaster preparedness and management of disasters through application of information technology tools. The changing trends have opened up a large number of scientific and technological resources and skills to reduce disaster risk. The IT tools are discussed below:-
3.1 GIS and Remote Sensing
GIS provides a tool for effective and efficient storage and manipulation of remotely sensed data and other spatial and non-spatial data types for both scientific management and policy oriented information. This can be used to facilitate measurement, mapping, monitoring and modelling of variety of data types related to natural phenomenon. The specific GIS application in the field of Risk Assessment are:- Hazard Mapping to show earthquake, landslides, floods or fire hazards. Thses map could be created for cities, districts or even for the entire country and tropical cyclone Threat Maps are used by meteorological departments to improve the quality of the tropical storm warning services and quickly communicate the risk to the people likely to get affected by the cyclone.
Remote sensing makes observation of any object from a distance and without coming into actual contact. Remote sensing can gather data much faster than ground based observation, can cover large area at one time to give a synoptic view. Remote sensing comprises Aerial Remote Sensing which is the process of recording information, such as photographs and images from sensor on aircrafts and Satellite Remote Sensing which consists of several satellite remote sensing system which can be used to integrate natural hazard assessments into development planning studies.These are: Landsat, SPOT Satellite, Satellite Radar System, Advanced Very High Resolution Radio. Some application of GIS and Remote Sensing in various disasters are as follows:-
3.1.1 Drought
GIS and Remote Sensing can be used in drought relief management such as early warnings of drought conditions will help to plan out the strategies to organise relief work. Satellite data may be used to target potential ground water sites for taking up well-digging programmes. Satellite data provides valuable tools for evaluating areas subject to desertification. Film transparencies, photographs and digital data can be used for the purpose of locating, assessing and monitoring deterioration of natural conditions in a given area.
3.1.2 Earthquake
GIS and Remote Sensing can be used for preparing seismic hazards maps in order to assess the exact nature of risks.
3.1.3 Floods
Satellite data can be effectively used for mapping and monitoring the flood inundated areas, flood damage assessment, flood hazard zoning and post-flood survey of rivers configuration and protection works.
3.1.4 Landslides
Landslide zonation map comprise a map demarcating the stretches or area of varying degree of anticipated slope stability or instability. The map has an inbuilt element of forecasting and is hence of probabilistic nature. Depending upon the methodology adopted and the comprehensiveness of the input data used, a landslide hazard zonation map able to provide help concerning location,-extent of the slop area likely to be affected, and rate of mass movement of the slope mass.
3.1.5 Search and Rescue
GIS can be used in carrying out search and rescue operations in a more effective manner by identifying areas that are disasters prone and zoning them accordingly to risk magnitudes.
3.2 Internet
In the present era of electronic communication, the internet provides a useful platform for disaster mitigation communications. Launching of a well defined web site is a very cost-effective means of making an intra-national and international presence felt. It provides a new and potentially revolutionary option for the rapid, automatic, and global dissemination of disaster information. A number of individuals and groups, including several national meteorological services, are experimenting with the Internet for real-time dissemination of weather observation, forecasts, satellite and other data. In the most critical phase of natural disasters electronic communication have provided the most effective and in some instances perhaps the only means of communication with the outside world.
4 Warning and Forecasting System
An advance system of forecasting, monitoring and issuing early warnings plays the most significant role in determining whether a natural hazard will assume disastrous proportions or not. The country have the following forecasting systems:
4.1 Indian Meteorological Department (IMD)
IMD provides cyclone warnings from the Area Cyclone Warning Centres (ACWCs) It has developed the necessary infrastructure to originate and disseminate the cyclone warnings at appropriate levels. It has made operational a satellite based communication system called Cyclone Warning Dissemination System for direct dissemination of cyclone warnings to the cyclone prone coastal areas. IMD runs operationally a Limited-area Analysis and Forecast System (LAFS), based on an Optimal Interpretation (OI) analysis and a limited area Primitive Equation (PE) model, to provide numerical guidance.
To be continued.....
Continued......
4.2 National Remote Sensing Agency(NRSA)
Long term drought proofing programmes on the natural resources of the district have been greatly helped by the use of satellite data obtained by NRSA. Satellite data can be used very effectively for mapping and monitoring the flood inundated areas, flood damage assessment, flood hazard zoning and past flood survey of river configuration and protection works.
4.3 Seismological Observations
Seismological observations in the country are made through national network of 36 seismic stations operated by the IMD, which is the nodal agency. These stations have collected data over long periods of time.
4.4 Warning System for Drought
The National Agricultural Drought Assessment and Management System (NADAMS) has been developed by the Department of Space for the Department of Agriculture and Cooperation, and is primarily based on monitoring of vegetation status through National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Advanced Very High Resolution (AVHR) data. The drought assessment is based on a comparative evaluation of satellite observed green vegetation cover (both area and greenness) of a district in any specific time period, with that of any similar period in previous years.
4.5 Flood Forecasting
Flood forecasts and warnings are issued by the Central Water Commission (CWC) , Ministry of Water Resources. These are used for alerting the public and for taking appropriate measures by concerned administrative and state engineering agencies in the flood hazard mitigation. Information is gathered from the CWC's vast network of Forecasting Stations on various rivers in the country.
4.6 Cyclone Tracking
Information on cyclone warnings is furnished on a real-time basis to the control room set up in the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India. High-power Cyclone Detection Radars (CDRs) that are installed along the coastal belt of India have proved to be a very useful tool to the cyclone warning work. These radars can locate and track approaching Tropical Cyclones within a range of 400 km. Satellite imagery received from weather satellite is extensively used in detecting the development and movement of Tropical Cyclones over oceanic regions, particularly when they are beyond the range of the coastal radars. The existing mode of dissemination of cyclone warnings to various government officials is through high priority telegrams, telephones, telex and fax.
5. Financial arrangements for Natural Disaster in India
Natural Disasters are huge economic burdens on developing economies such as India. Every year huge amount of resources are mobilised for rescue, relief and rehabilitation works following natural disaster occurrences. The Central Government plays a major role as far as mobilisation of financial resources are concerned. A scheme called Calamity Relief Fund (CRF) has been constituted for each state with contribution from the Central and State Government to undertake relief and rehabilitation measures .This enable the states to manage and provide for calamity relief on their own by drawing upon the resources available with a fund constituted for that purpose separately for each state. In addition to CRF, a National Fund for Calamity Relief (NFCR) has been created to deal with hazards of rare severity managed by a National Calamity Relief Committee (NCRC). The State Governments are required to submit memoranda for this purpose giving details of damage and destruction and the cost of relief and rehabilitation. On receipt of these memoranda, the Government of India decides on an individual basis whether a Central Team is required to be deputed to assess the situation.
6. Administrative Structure of Disaster Management in India
The Department of Agriculture and Cooperation (DAC) in the Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India, is the nodal department for all matters concerning natural disasters relief at the Centre. The National Contingency Action Plan (CAP) facilitates launching of relief and rescue operations without delay. There are various committees at the national level for disaster management such as Cabinet Committee for effective implementation of relief measures in the wake of natural calamity; National Crisis Management Committee at the national level headed by the Cabinet Secretary who is in charge of various types of disasters and supporting ministries as members; Crisis Management Group reviews various measures required for dealing with a natural disaster, and coordinates activities of the Central ministries and the State Governments pertaining to disaster preparedness and relief and obtains information from nodal officers on measures relating to the above. Figure 1 shows the Interaction Pattern in the Government.
The State Governments are autonomous in organising relief operations in the event of natural disaster and a long-term preparedness / rehabilitation measures. The State Governments efforts are supplemented by Central Government. There is a State Crisis Management Group (SCMC) under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary/Relief Commissioner to take into consideration the infrastructure and guidance received, from time to time, from Government of India and formulate action plans for dealing with different natural disasters.There is a State Level Control Room set up whenever a disaster situation develops.
States are further divided into districts, each headed by the District Collector (also known as the District Magistrate or Deputy Commissioner), who is the focal point at the district level for directing, supervising and monitoring relief measures for disaster and for preparation of district level plans. The Collector exercises coordinating and supervisory powers over functionaries of all the departments at the District level. The relief measures are reviewed by the District Relief Committee consisting of official and no-official members, including local legislators and members of parliament. In the wake of Natural disasters, a Control Room is set up in the District for day-to-day monitoring of the rescue and relief operations on a continuing basis.
The Collector/Deputy Commissioner maintains close liaison with the Central Government authorities in the districts, namely, Army, Air Force an Navy, Ministry of Water Resources, etc., who supplement the effort of the District Administration in the rescue and relief operation.They also co-ordinates all voluntary efforts by mobilising the non-government organisations capable of working in such situations.
The armed forces of the country have played a vital role during disaster emergencies providing prompt relief to the victims even in the most inaccessible and remote areas of the country. The organisational strength of the armed forces with their disciplined and systematised approach, and with their skills in technical and human resource management make them indispensable for such emergency situations. India having a federal structure the integrated disaster management mechanism exists within the government framework.
7. Conclusions
It may be observed that advancement in Information Technology in the form of Internet, GIS, Remote Sensing, Satellite communication, etc. can help a great deal in planning and implementation of hazards reduction. For maximum benefit, new technologies for public communication should be made use and natural disaster mitigation messages should be conveyed through these measures. GIS can improve the quality and power of analysis of natural hazards assessments, guide development activities and assist planners in the selection of mitigation measures and in the implementation of emergency preparedness and response action. Remote Sensing, on the other hand, as a tool can very effectively contribute towards identification of hazardous areas, monitor the planet for its changes on a real time basis and give early warning to many impending disasters.Communication satellites have become vital for providing emergency communication and timely relief measures. Integration of space technology inputs into natural disaster monitoring and mitigation mechanisms is critical for hazard reduction. It is absolutely necessary to create awareness amongst the public as well as decision makers for allocating resources for appropriate investments in information technology. Awareness and training in Information technology in a much grater measure is required to develop human resources, particularly in the developing countries, who are chronically suffer from natural disasters.
The disasters usually occur in the well-defined areas, even though the community does not know the coping mechanism for the disaster. The disaster mitigation programmes must be extensively taken up covering various aspects at national level to minimise the disaster damages. There should be a greater emphasis on development of new technologies in disaster mitigation. The disaster preparedness and awareness is the only effective way of mitigating the impact of future disasters.
Some NGOs in India--
Child Survival of India
www.childsurvivalindia.org
Child Survival of India is a voluntary organisation based in the national capital New Delhi and dedicated to the spread of awareness among migrant workers and their families of key social and medical issues, empowering them in the process to overcome the problems they face. Its activities seek to promote information among its target communities of HIV and sexually transmitted diseases, the need for children's education, women's emancipation, proper nutrition and medical care. A group of ten students {eight first years and two second years } and a teacher will visit CSI's centre in a village twenty kilometres north of Delhi and eight kilometres from the industrial township of Narela during the project week. They will be exposed to the full range of activities the organisation is currently engaged in and allowed to select one activity in which each student could then participate over two or three days. Project participants will have to live in the village and be willing to face the inconveniences of doing so. A visit to the well known historical and other tourist destinations of India's capital city will be included in the itinerary.
Sakhi
www.sakhikerala.org
SAKHI (it means "friend" in Hindi) is an NGO based in Kerala that works with panchayats and self-help groups of women. They are currently working in a coastal village in Kerala affected by the Tsunami; this may be the area in which we help them on Project Week. The "stop violence against women" campaign is from 25th November to 10th December; we will also be able to help out during the preparation week. We can also work with some women's groups there - they are interested in skills such as candle making. As you can see, the actual details of the week are still open to us to develop, but the organization itself does great work, so whatever we do should promise to be rewarding.
Comprehensive Rural Health Project, Jamkhed
www.jamkhed.org
The Comprehensive Rural Health Project (CRHP) was started in 1970 by Drs Rajanikant and Mabelle Arole covering 8 villages. It is run on the principle of "Community-based Primary Health Care" and development, which aims at empowering communities to take health into their own hands, and improving the status of women and weaker sections of society. This approach has brought about overall development and income generation, as well as holistic health. The CRHP is now a world-famous organisation covering around 330 villages including 30 tribal settlements, in relatively less-developed areas of Maharashtra.
The field trip will study the principles behind the CRHP, the administration and execution of the project, the reasons for its amazing success, and how such projects need to be emulated to provide appropriate health care to the underprivileged in India. Students will be involved in visiting balwadis and health centres in various villages, accompanying health workers on house-to-house visits, looking at improved techniques of agriculture, learning about income generation projects and programmes aimed at empowering women.
Snehalaya, Ahmednagar
www.snehalaya.org
Snehalaya was started in 1989 with the aim of helping Victims of Commercial Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking in Ahmednagar. Snehalaya has many project areas: the "Sanskar Kendra" helps to enrol children of Women in Prostitution (WIPs) in schools and runs evening activities; "Balbhavan" caters to younger pre-school children; the "Shelter Home and the Rescue Home" accommodate young girls rescued from prostitution and children of WIPs; the "Adoption Centre" finds homes for AIDS orphans; the "Child Line" call centre provides a helpline for abused children, runaways and rescued girls; the "Rehab and Vocational Training Centres" provide medical and socio-psychological help and counselling to WIPs, and teach them candle-making, knitting & sewing and basic computer skills as alternate ways of earning a living.
The field trip will study the history pf prostitution in the Ahmednagar area, and will learn about the need for Snehalayas programmes and how they are funded and run.
Students will accompany Snehalaya staff to the various programmes and interact with inmates and beneficiaries, will visit a sugar factory to look at farmers' cooperatives and an agricultural university, and will go on trips to some historical sites in and around Ahmednagar.
Sirsi
www.kalpavriksh.org
This Project Week will involve active participation with an NGO in their efforts to get communities involved with biodiversity conservation. The project run by Kalpavriksh near the town of Sirsi in northern Karnataka is an innovative experiment in getting ordinary people involved with protecting biodiversity. The trip is designed around a similar program for university students studying sustainable development and conservation. The project is set at the edge of the evergreen rainforests of the Western Ghats in Karnataka. We will be staying in village houses, participating in seed collections, interacting with environmentalists and ecologists, and hiking into the heart of the forest.
CHIRAG
www.chirag.org
Central Himalayan Rural Action Group (CHIRAG) is a non-profit grassroots development organisation working with rural communities in the Central Himalayan region of India. The main office of Chirag is located in the village of Sitla (overlooking a spectacular view of the Himalayan range), in the district of Nainital, in the Kumaon Division of the state of Uttaranachal. CHIRAG is also involved with issues of social empowerment and community mobilization, income generation and training and communication which it considers critical to its integrated development strategy. Areas of intervention include preparatory schools or balwaris, primary school support programmes with a thrust on environmental education, village libraries, science laboratories, centres for adolescent girl empowerment, preventive and curative health programmes, and a local self governance (Panchayati Raj) programme. It has also set up the Kumaun Grameen Udyog (KGU) which runs a weaving centre as well as an oil extraction unit.
During, our 6-day trip during the Project week in November 2004, we were introduced to the work of CHIRAG. We were taken to the health centres, introduced to the adolescent girls programme, we worked in the horticulture farm (where we were familiarized with various medicinal herbs and other plants and the experimental work being done). We also visited the weaving and oil extraction unit. We also attended a village meeting where issues of forest preservation were discussed. The trip sensitized us to the problems associated with Hill development, the social issues involved and how the Natural Resource Development of a region could not be addressed unless community mobilization and participation was encouraged and the people, specially women, were empowered both financially and politically.
CHIRAG
www.chirag.org
Central Himalayan Rural Action Group (CHIRAG) is a non-profit grassroots development organisation working with rural communities in the Central Himalayan region of India. The main office of Chirag is located in the village of Sitla (overlooking a spectacular view of the Himalayan range), in the district of Nainital, in the Kumaon Division of the state of Uttaranachal. CHIRAG is also involved with issues of social empowerment and community mobilization, income generation and training and communication which it considers critical to its integrated development strategy. Areas of intervention include preparatory schools or balwaris, primary school support programmes with a thrust on environmental education, village libraries, science laboratories, centres for adolescent girl empowerment, preventive and curative health programmes, and a local self governance (Panchayati Raj) programme. It has also set up the Kumaun Grameen Udyog (KGU) which runs a weaving centre as well as an oil extraction unit.
During, our 6-day trip during the Project week in November 2004, we were introduced to the work of CHIRAG. We were taken to the health centres, introduced to the adolescent girls programme, we worked in the horticulture farm (where we were familiarized with various medicinal herbs and other plants and the experimental work being done). We also visited the weaving and oil extraction unit. We also attended a village meeting where issues of forest preservation were discussed. The trip sensitized us to the problems associated with Hill development, the social issues involved and how the Natural Resource Development of a region could not be addressed unless community mobilization and participation was encouraged and the people, specially women, were empowered both financially and politically.
RIDE
www.rideindia.org
RIDE is located in rural Tamil Nadu, in Kanchipuram; as an organization they conduct a wide range of activities surrounding their central mission of empowering the rural poor of Tamil Nadu, with particular focus on children, women, and environmental issues. This project week will spend the week with RIDE participating in this wide variety of activities, from working with local villagers on environmental development to children within RIDE's "Bridge School" program.
Navrachna
www.navrachna.org
The aims of this project week are to work with the RTDC branch of the Indian NGO Navarachna, which is focused on rural mountain development, learning about the complexities of development in the rural Himalaya, the life of the local people, as well as spending some time in the beautiful big mountains there. The hope is to work with a new project that the RTDC is developing to explore market incentives to set up an agro and forest diversity based enterprise, though we will not know until September if this particular focus is possible. Either way, the core area of activities addressed by Navarachna and the RTDC is natural resource based livelihoods for the hill population and the associated natural resource management issues, so the actual project will focus on these issues in some way. In addition to the work with the RTDC, depending on the weather, we will have some chances for some short trekking in the Himachal Pradesh Himalaya, so anyone who signs up for this trip should have some interest (though actual experience is not necessary) in trekking and be physically fit.
Rural Economic Environment
Macro Economic Data
11External Debt (US $ billion)105.4 111.7123.3
Rainfall During the South - West monsoons in 2004 (June - September period), the cumulative rainfall of 78.1cm (92.2 cm in 2003) was 13 per cent less than the normal rainfall of 89.3 cm, with excess or normal rainfall in 23 out of 36 meteorological sub- divisions (as compared to only 33 meteorological sub - divisions in 2003) in the country. Only 57 per cent of the districts and 62 per cent of the gross cropped area in the country received normal/excess rainfall in 2004. Despite this, none of the meteorological sub-divisions experienced severe drought conditions(seasonal rainfall deficiency exceeding 50%) at the end of the season. However, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, West Rajasthan, Vidarbha region of Maharashtra and Telengana region of Avdhra Pradesh experienced moderate drought conditions(seasonal rainfall deficiency between 25 and 50%). Of the 524 meteorological districts, 25 per cent experienced moderate drought and 7 per cent experienced severe drought during the season.
Area Under Major Crops The area under major crops, viz. rice, wheat, coarse cereals, pulses, oilseeds, cotton and sugarcane decreased by 2.3 per cent from 161.6 million ha. in 2003-04 to 157.9 million ha. during 2004-05. Area Under Major Crops (million ha.)
Major Crops/YearArea 2003 -20042004-2005% changeRice40.438.2-5.4Wheat26.526.5--Coarse Cereals28.225.4-9.9Total Pulses28.226.4-6.4Oilseeds25.328.412.2Cotton7.48.210.8Sugarcane4.63.9-15.2Total161.6157.9-2.3
Gross Capital Formation
During 2003-04, the gross capital formation in agriculture at 1993-94 prices was estimated at Rs.20,510 crore. The share of public sector and private sector in total capital formation were 25.6 per cent and 74.4 per cent, respectively. Investments in agriculture as a percentage of GDP declined from 1.57 during 1995-96 to 1.31 during 2003-04. Gross Capital Formation in Indian Agriculture
Year
Total
Public
Private
Per cent sharePublicPrivate2000-011690639271298023.276.82001-02 1721949691225028.971.12002-031824043591388123.976.12003-04*20510
5249
15261
25.6
74.4
Agricultural Inputs
i. Seeds
The Govt. of India continued to implement the Seed Bank Scheme, 2000 and the initiatives taken under National Seeds Policy, 2002. During 2004-05, the production of breeder and foundation seeds was estimated at 0.5 and 7.0 lakh quintals, respectively and the distribution of certified/quality seeds was 127.4 lakh quintals.
ii. FertilizersDuring 2004-05, the production of nitrogenous and phosphatic fertilizers was estimated at 10.9 million tonnes and 4.1 million tonnes respectively and the import requirement of total N+P+K was reported at 1.4 million tonnes during 2004-05. The total consumption of fertilisers during 2003-04 increased by 4.4 per cent to 16.8 million tonnes compared to the previous year. During 2004-05, consumption of fertiliser till September 2004 was reported at 9.2 million tonnes. Over the years, the share of nitrogenous fertilisers in total consumption of fertilisers increased continuously.
Production and Consumption of Chemical Fertilisers (million tonnes)
YearProductionConsumptionImports2000-0114.716.72.12001-0214.617.32.42002-0314.416.11.82003-0414.216.82.02004-05*15.0
9.2 **1.4
iii. Irrigation
About 68 per cent of the total ultimate irrigation potential of 139.9 million ha has been harnessed. During the Tenth Five Year Plan period(2002-07), the investment in MI structures is expected to create additional irrigation potential of 12 million ha. . Further, the Union Budget 2005-06 has targeted the creation of assured irrigation facilities for additional 10 million ha of area over a period of five years (2006-11).The minor irrigation sector has always been a thrust area for NABARD. The Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme launched during 1996-97 encourages state governments to complete on-going irrigation projects and the programme has covered 181 major/medium and 3,810 minor irrigation projects up to 2003-04.The Command Area Development and Water Management Programme started from April 2004 is aimed at bringing about better water management practices and efficient utilisation of irrigation water.
iv. Institutional Credit
The agricultural credit provided by cooperative banks, commercial banks, RRBs increased by 25 per cent from Rs.69,560 crore during 2002-03 to Rs. 86,981 crore during 2003-04. The Govt.of India in consultation with RBI, NABARD and commercial banks, announced in June 2004, a credit package envisaging the doubling of agricultural credit over the next three years. During 2004-05, an aggregate amount of Rs.115242.81 crore was disbursed by financing agencies, achieving the target to an extent of 110 per cent.
Agricultural Production A target of 225.1 million tonnes of foodgrains production was fixed by the Ministry of Agriculture, GOI for 2004-05. The production of foodgrains was 206.4 million tonnes during 2004-05 as against 212 million tonnes during 2003-04. The production of foodgrains and commercial crops over the last three years is furnished in the following table:
Agricultural Production (million tonnes)
Year/Crops2002-032003-04*2004-05 ***Rice72.787.087.8
Wheat65.172.173.0
Coarse Cereals25.337.831.9
Pulses11.115.213.7
Total Foodgrains174.2212.0206.4
Oilseeds15.125.124.8
Sugarcane281.6236.2234.2
Cotton**8.713.817.1
Agricultural Trade
i. Agricultural Exports
The share of agriculture exports in total exports declined to 10 per cent during 2004-05 compared to 11.8 per cent during 2003-04. The growth rate of agriculture exports increased to 9.1 per cent from 8.5 per cent during the same period. There was an increase in the exports of basmati and non-basmati rice, cashew, castor oil, sesame seeds and shellac.
ii. Agricultural Imports
The share of food and its related products in total imports stood at 3.2 per cent during 2004-05 compared to 4.5 per cent during the previous year. The import of cereal preparations, other cereals, sugar, tea and spices increased while import of pulses, milk, cream, vegetable oils etc., declined. Vegetable oils have become the single largest item of import, accounting for 69.5 per cent of total agricultural imports during 2004-05.
Sources: (1) Economic Survey 2004-05
(2) NABARD, Annual Report 2004-05
Procurement and Stock of Foodgrains
The level of foodgrains stock declined to 17.4 million tonnes in March 2005 from 20 million tonnes in March 2004. The procurement of foodgrains in May 2004 was 2.82 million tonnes which marginally increased to 2.83 million tonnes in May 2005 .
Source: Monthly Review of the Indian Economy, CMIE - July 2005
Livestock, Poultry, Fisheries India owns the largest livestock population in the world, accounting for nearly 57 per cent of the world buffalo population and 16 per cent of the cattle population. India was the largest producer of milk and the production increased by 13 per cent over 2000-01 to 91 million tonnes during 2004-05 and aims to achieve the National Vision of producing 96 million tonnes by 2010. Per capita daily availability of milk has also been increasing over the years and reached 232 gms during 2004-05. During 2002-03, the value of output of livestock at Rs 1,56,080 crore accounted for about 5.4 per cent of the total GDP. Livestock sector produced 88 million tonnes of milk, 40.4 billion eggs, 48.5 million kgs of wool and 6 million tonnes of meat in 2003-04. The total export earnings from livestock, poultry and related products was Rs.4,734 crore in 2003-04, out of which leather sector accounted for Rs 2,568 crore and meat and meat products accounted for Rs 1,694 crore. In 2004(April-October), export of milk and dairy products was recorded at US$16.4 million.
Production and Per Capita Availability of Milk
YearsMilk Production (Million Tonnes)
Per Capita Availability (Grams/Day) 1950-5117.01241960-6120.01241970-7122.01121980-8131.61281990-9153.91762000-0180.62202001-0284.42252002-0386.72302003-04
88.1
231
2004-05*
91.0
232
Fisheries India is the third largest producer of fish and second largest producer of inland fish in the world. The fishery sector contributes 1.1 per cent of the total GDP and 5.4 per cent of the GDP from agriculture sector during 2003-04. Fish production reached a level of 6.4 million tonnes in 2003-04, comprising 3 million tonnes of marine fish and 3.4 million tonnes of inland fish. The potential for fish production from marine and inland sources has been estimated at 3.9 million tonnes and 4.5 million tonnes, respectively. During 2004-05, the export earnings from marine products(US$549.5 million) forms 15.6 per cent of the agri-exports (US$3511 million). The fishery sector also provides employment to over 11 million people, engaged fully, partially or in subsidiary activities pertaining to the sector.
Agricultural Marketing
World Trade Organisation-Latest Developments
Macro Economic Data
- The GDP of the Indian Economy was estimated to have grown at 6.9 per cent during 2004-05 as against 8.5 per cent in 2003-04.
- GDP from agriculture sector was estimated to have grown at the rate of 1.1 per cent during 2004-05 as against 9.6 per cent during 2003-04.
- Agricultural production during 2003-04 was estimated to increase by 21.3 per cent, however, there was a decline of 0.6 per cent during 2004- 05
- Foodgrains stock in March 2005 was provisionally estimated at 17.4 million tonnes, as against 20 million tonnes in March 2004.
11External Debt (US $ billion)105.4 111.7123.3
Rainfall During the South - West monsoons in 2004 (June - September period), the cumulative rainfall of 78.1cm (92.2 cm in 2003) was 13 per cent less than the normal rainfall of 89.3 cm, with excess or normal rainfall in 23 out of 36 meteorological sub- divisions (as compared to only 33 meteorological sub - divisions in 2003) in the country. Only 57 per cent of the districts and 62 per cent of the gross cropped area in the country received normal/excess rainfall in 2004. Despite this, none of the meteorological sub-divisions experienced severe drought conditions(seasonal rainfall deficiency exceeding 50%) at the end of the season. However, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, West Rajasthan, Vidarbha region of Maharashtra and Telengana region of Avdhra Pradesh experienced moderate drought conditions(seasonal rainfall deficiency between 25 and 50%). Of the 524 meteorological districts, 25 per cent experienced moderate drought and 7 per cent experienced severe drought during the season.
Area Under Major Crops The area under major crops, viz. rice, wheat, coarse cereals, pulses, oilseeds, cotton and sugarcane decreased by 2.3 per cent from 161.6 million ha. in 2003-04 to 157.9 million ha. during 2004-05. Area Under Major Crops (million ha.)
Major Crops/YearArea 2003 -20042004-2005% changeRice40.438.2-5.4Wheat26.526.5--Coarse Cereals28.225.4-9.9Total Pulses28.226.4-6.4Oilseeds25.328.412.2Cotton7.48.210.8Sugarcane4.63.9-15.2Total161.6157.9-2.3
Gross Capital Formation
During 2003-04, the gross capital formation in agriculture at 1993-94 prices was estimated at Rs.20,510 crore. The share of public sector and private sector in total capital formation were 25.6 per cent and 74.4 per cent, respectively. Investments in agriculture as a percentage of GDP declined from 1.57 during 1995-96 to 1.31 during 2003-04. Gross Capital Formation in Indian Agriculture
Year
Total
Public
Private
Per cent sharePublicPrivate2000-011690639271298023.276.82001-02 1721949691225028.971.12002-031824043591388123.976.12003-04*20510
5249
15261
25.6
74.4
Agricultural Inputs
i. Seeds
The Govt. of India continued to implement the Seed Bank Scheme, 2000 and the initiatives taken under National Seeds Policy, 2002. During 2004-05, the production of breeder and foundation seeds was estimated at 0.5 and 7.0 lakh quintals, respectively and the distribution of certified/quality seeds was 127.4 lakh quintals.
ii. FertilizersDuring 2004-05, the production of nitrogenous and phosphatic fertilizers was estimated at 10.9 million tonnes and 4.1 million tonnes respectively and the import requirement of total N+P+K was reported at 1.4 million tonnes during 2004-05. The total consumption of fertilisers during 2003-04 increased by 4.4 per cent to 16.8 million tonnes compared to the previous year. During 2004-05, consumption of fertiliser till September 2004 was reported at 9.2 million tonnes. Over the years, the share of nitrogenous fertilisers in total consumption of fertilisers increased continuously.
Production and Consumption of Chemical Fertilisers (million tonnes)
YearProductionConsumptionImports2000-0114.716.72.12001-0214.617.32.42002-0314.416.11.82003-0414.216.82.02004-05*15.0
9.2 **1.4
iii. Irrigation
About 68 per cent of the total ultimate irrigation potential of 139.9 million ha has been harnessed. During the Tenth Five Year Plan period(2002-07), the investment in MI structures is expected to create additional irrigation potential of 12 million ha. . Further, the Union Budget 2005-06 has targeted the creation of assured irrigation facilities for additional 10 million ha of area over a period of five years (2006-11).The minor irrigation sector has always been a thrust area for NABARD. The Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme launched during 1996-97 encourages state governments to complete on-going irrigation projects and the programme has covered 181 major/medium and 3,810 minor irrigation projects up to 2003-04.The Command Area Development and Water Management Programme started from April 2004 is aimed at bringing about better water management practices and efficient utilisation of irrigation water.
iv. Institutional Credit
The agricultural credit provided by cooperative banks, commercial banks, RRBs increased by 25 per cent from Rs.69,560 crore during 2002-03 to Rs. 86,981 crore during 2003-04. The Govt.of India in consultation with RBI, NABARD and commercial banks, announced in June 2004, a credit package envisaging the doubling of agricultural credit over the next three years. During 2004-05, an aggregate amount of Rs.115242.81 crore was disbursed by financing agencies, achieving the target to an extent of 110 per cent.
Agricultural Production A target of 225.1 million tonnes of foodgrains production was fixed by the Ministry of Agriculture, GOI for 2004-05. The production of foodgrains was 206.4 million tonnes during 2004-05 as against 212 million tonnes during 2003-04. The production of foodgrains and commercial crops over the last three years is furnished in the following table:
Agricultural Production (million tonnes)
Year/Crops2002-032003-04*2004-05 ***Rice72.787.087.8
Wheat65.172.173.0
Coarse Cereals25.337.831.9
Pulses11.115.213.7
Total Foodgrains174.2212.0206.4
Oilseeds15.125.124.8
Sugarcane281.6236.2234.2
Cotton**8.713.817.1
Agricultural Trade
i. Agricultural Exports
The share of agriculture exports in total exports declined to 10 per cent during 2004-05 compared to 11.8 per cent during 2003-04. The growth rate of agriculture exports increased to 9.1 per cent from 8.5 per cent during the same period. There was an increase in the exports of basmati and non-basmati rice, cashew, castor oil, sesame seeds and shellac.
ii. Agricultural Imports
The share of food and its related products in total imports stood at 3.2 per cent during 2004-05 compared to 4.5 per cent during the previous year. The import of cereal preparations, other cereals, sugar, tea and spices increased while import of pulses, milk, cream, vegetable oils etc., declined. Vegetable oils have become the single largest item of import, accounting for 69.5 per cent of total agricultural imports during 2004-05.
Sources: (1) Economic Survey 2004-05
(2) NABARD, Annual Report 2004-05
Procurement and Stock of Foodgrains
The level of foodgrains stock declined to 17.4 million tonnes in March 2005 from 20 million tonnes in March 2004. The procurement of foodgrains in May 2004 was 2.82 million tonnes which marginally increased to 2.83 million tonnes in May 2005 .
Source: Monthly Review of the Indian Economy, CMIE - July 2005
Livestock, Poultry, Fisheries India owns the largest livestock population in the world, accounting for nearly 57 per cent of the world buffalo population and 16 per cent of the cattle population. India was the largest producer of milk and the production increased by 13 per cent over 2000-01 to 91 million tonnes during 2004-05 and aims to achieve the National Vision of producing 96 million tonnes by 2010. Per capita daily availability of milk has also been increasing over the years and reached 232 gms during 2004-05. During 2002-03, the value of output of livestock at Rs 1,56,080 crore accounted for about 5.4 per cent of the total GDP. Livestock sector produced 88 million tonnes of milk, 40.4 billion eggs, 48.5 million kgs of wool and 6 million tonnes of meat in 2003-04. The total export earnings from livestock, poultry and related products was Rs.4,734 crore in 2003-04, out of which leather sector accounted for Rs 2,568 crore and meat and meat products accounted for Rs 1,694 crore. In 2004(April-October), export of milk and dairy products was recorded at US$16.4 million.
Production and Per Capita Availability of Milk
YearsMilk Production (Million Tonnes)
Per Capita Availability (Grams/Day) 1950-5117.01241960-6120.01241970-7122.01121980-8131.61281990-9153.91762000-0180.62202001-0284.42252002-0386.72302003-04
88.1
231
2004-05*
91.0
232
Fisheries India is the third largest producer of fish and second largest producer of inland fish in the world. The fishery sector contributes 1.1 per cent of the total GDP and 5.4 per cent of the GDP from agriculture sector during 2003-04. Fish production reached a level of 6.4 million tonnes in 2003-04, comprising 3 million tonnes of marine fish and 3.4 million tonnes of inland fish. The potential for fish production from marine and inland sources has been estimated at 3.9 million tonnes and 4.5 million tonnes, respectively. During 2004-05, the export earnings from marine products(US$549.5 million) forms 15.6 per cent of the agri-exports (US$3511 million). The fishery sector also provides employment to over 11 million people, engaged fully, partially or in subsidiary activities pertaining to the sector.
Agricultural Marketing
- Various central government organisations and regulated markets, viz., Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices, Food Corporation of India, Cotton Corporation of India, Jute Corporation of India, specialised marketing boards for rubber, coffee, tea, tobacco, spices, coconut and horticultural products, etc., operate in rural areas to support agriculture marketing in terms of establishing infrastructure and setting-up rural warehouses. These organisations are further assisted by network of co-operatives at the local, state and national levels.
- To make agricultural marketing system more vibrant and competitive, an Inter-Ministerial Task Force on Agricultural Marketing Reforms set up in 2002 in its report made certain major recommendations, viz., (i) amendment to State Agricultural Produce Marketing Committee (APMC) Act, for promotion of direct marketing and contract farming, (ii) development of agricultural markets in private and co-operative sectors, (iii) stepping up of pledge financing, (iv) expansion of the future trading to cover all agricultural markets, (v) introduction of negotiable warehouse receipt system and (vi) use of IT to provide market led extension services. Further, to promote private participation in agriculture marketing, GoI drafted a 'Model Act' on the lines of which, 18 state governments/UTs have initiated action so far and are amending their State APMC Acts.
- The introduction of futures trading in agricultural commodities also gathered momentum during 2004-05 and performed well in terms of volumes, participation, number of commodities traded, etc. National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX), traded agriculture commodities worth Rs.91,470 crore (upto November 2004) mainly in oilseeds, guar seed, rubber, pepper, turmeric, wheat, cotton, etc.
World Trade Organisation-Latest Developments
- Trade negotiations at the Fifth Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organisation at Cancun, Mexico in September 2003 received a major set back. However, WTO Members in their General Council Meeting held in Geneva from 31 July to 1 August 2004, adopted a Framework Agreement, outlining the elements and principles to guide further negotiations. In the meeting, the G-20 alliance, the G-33 alliance of developing countries on Special Products, the Africa Group, the ACP (African, Carribean, Pacific) Group, the Cairns Group of agricultural exporting countries, were successful in forcing developed countries in adopting the Framework Agreement.
- The Framework Agreement explicitly agreed to eliminate export subsidies by an end date and also recognised the critical importance of agriculture to the economic development of developing countries and the need to enable them to pursue agricultural policies that are supportive of their development goals, poverty reduction strategies, food security and livelihood concerns, including through instruments such as, Special Products and a new Special Safeguard Mechanism against likely import surges. The Agreement, thus, provided a useful basis for further negotiations on detailed modalities that could help to create market access opportunities for farm products of export interest and safeguard small and vulnerable producers.
BIO-DIESEL IN INDIA
Bio-diesel is a fatty acid of ethyl or methyl ester made from virgin or used vegetable oils (both edible and non-edible) and animal fats. The main commodity sources for Bio-diesel in India can be non-edible oils obtained from plant species such as Jatropha curcas (Ratanjyot), Pongamia pinnata (Karanj), Calophyllum inophyllum (Nagchampa), Hevcca brasiliensis (Rubber) etc. Bio-diesel contains no petroleum, but it can be blended at any level with petroleum diesel to create a Bio-diesel blend or can be used in its pure form. Just like petroleum diesel, Bio-diesel Operates in compression engine; which essentially require very little or no engine modifications because Bio-diesel has properties similar to petroleum diesel fuels. It can be stored just like the petroleum diesel fuel and hence does not require separate infrastructure. The use of Bio-diesel in conventional diesel engines results in substantial reduction of un-brunt hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and particular matters. Bio-diesel is considered clean fuel since it has almost no sulphur, no aromatics and has about 10% built-in oxygen, which helps it to burn fully. Its higher cetane number improves the ignition quality even when blended in the petroleum diesel.
As mentioned in the Introduction chapter for new vehicles (except 2 and 3 wheelers) compliance of Bharat Stage II emission norms are to be enforced in the entire country from1.4.2005 and Euro III equivalent norms by 1.4.2010. In addition to 4 metros where Bharat Stage II norms are already in place, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Pune, Surat, Kanpur and Agra should also meet this norm from 1.4.2003. The four metros and the other seven cities should comply with Euro III and Euro IV equivalent emission norms from 1.4.2005 and 1.4.2010 respectively. The 2 and 3 wheelers should confirm to Bharat Stage II norms from 1.4.2005 all over the country and Bharat Stage III norms preferably from 1.4.2008 but not later than 2010. For new vehicles, a drastic reduction in sulphur content (51) will be required in the petroleum diesel produced by Indian Refineries. Bio-diesel meets these two important specifications and would help in improving the lubricity of law sulphur diesel. The present specification of flash point for petroleum diesel is 350 C which is lower than all the countries in the world (>550C). Bio-diesel will help in raising the flash point, a requirement of safety.
B20 (a blend of 20 percent by volume Bio-diesel with 80 percent by volume petroleum diesel) has demonstrated significant environmental benefits in US with a minimal increase in cost for fleet operations and other consumers. Bio-diesel is registered as a fuel and fuel additive with the US Environment Protection Agency and meets clean diesel standards established by the California Air Resources Board. Neat (100 percent) Bio-diesel has been designated as an alternative fuel by the Department of Energy and Department of Transportation of US. Studies conducted with Bio-diesel on engines have shown substantial reduction in Particulate matter (25-50%). However, a marginal increase in NOx (1-6%) is also reported; but it can be taken care of either by optimization of engine parts by using De-NOx catalyst (De-NOx catalyst will be necessary for Bharat-III / IV complaint engines). HC and CO emission were also reports to be lower. Non-regulated emissions like PAH etc were also found to be lower.
Bio-diesel has been accepted as clean alternative fuel by US and its production presently is about 100 million Gallons. Each state has passed specific bills to promote the use of Bio-diesel by reduction of taxes. Sunflower, rapeseed etc is the raw material used in Europe whereas soyabean is used in USA. Thailand uses palm oil, Ireland uses frying oil and animal fats. Due to its favorable properties, Bio-diesel can be used as fuel for diesel engines (as either, B5-a blend of 5% Bio-diesel in petro-diesel fuel) or B20 or B100). USA uses B 20 and B100 Bio-diesel, France uses B5 as mandatory in all diesel fuel. It can also be used as an additive to reduce the overall sulfur content of blend and to compensate for lubricity loss due to sulfur removal from diesel fuel.
Bio-diesel is a fatty acid of ethyl or methyl ester made from virgin or used vegetable oils (both edible and non-edible) and animal fats. The main commodity sources for Bio-diesel in India can be non-edible oils obtained from plant species such as Jatropha curcas (Ratanjyot), Pongamia pinnata (Karanj), Calophyllum inophyllum (Nagchampa), Hevcca brasiliensis (Rubber) etc. Bio-diesel contains no petroleum, but it can be blended at any level with petroleum diesel to create a Bio-diesel blend or can be used in its pure form. Just like petroleum diesel, Bio-diesel Operates in compression engine; which essentially require very little or no engine modifications because Bio-diesel has properties similar to petroleum diesel fuels. It can be stored just like the petroleum diesel fuel and hence does not require separate infrastructure. The use of Bio-diesel in conventional diesel engines results in substantial reduction of un-brunt hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and particular matters. Bio-diesel is considered clean fuel since it has almost no sulphur, no aromatics and has about 10% built-in oxygen, which helps it to burn fully. Its higher cetane number improves the ignition quality even when blended in the petroleum diesel.
As mentioned in the Introduction chapter for new vehicles (except 2 and 3 wheelers) compliance of Bharat Stage II emission norms are to be enforced in the entire country from1.4.2005 and Euro III equivalent norms by 1.4.2010. In addition to 4 metros where Bharat Stage II norms are already in place, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Pune, Surat, Kanpur and Agra should also meet this norm from 1.4.2003. The four metros and the other seven cities should comply with Euro III and Euro IV equivalent emission norms from 1.4.2005 and 1.4.2010 respectively. The 2 and 3 wheelers should confirm to Bharat Stage II norms from 1.4.2005 all over the country and Bharat Stage III norms preferably from 1.4.2008 but not later than 2010. For new vehicles, a drastic reduction in sulphur content (51) will be required in the petroleum diesel produced by Indian Refineries. Bio-diesel meets these two important specifications and would help in improving the lubricity of law sulphur diesel. The present specification of flash point for petroleum diesel is 350 C which is lower than all the countries in the world (>550C). Bio-diesel will help in raising the flash point, a requirement of safety.
B20 (a blend of 20 percent by volume Bio-diesel with 80 percent by volume petroleum diesel) has demonstrated significant environmental benefits in US with a minimal increase in cost for fleet operations and other consumers. Bio-diesel is registered as a fuel and fuel additive with the US Environment Protection Agency and meets clean diesel standards established by the California Air Resources Board. Neat (100 percent) Bio-diesel has been designated as an alternative fuel by the Department of Energy and Department of Transportation of US. Studies conducted with Bio-diesel on engines have shown substantial reduction in Particulate matter (25-50%). However, a marginal increase in NOx (1-6%) is also reported; but it can be taken care of either by optimization of engine parts by using De-NOx catalyst (De-NOx catalyst will be necessary for Bharat-III / IV complaint engines). HC and CO emission were also reports to be lower. Non-regulated emissions like PAH etc were also found to be lower.
Bio-diesel has been accepted as clean alternative fuel by US and its production presently is about 100 million Gallons. Each state has passed specific bills to promote the use of Bio-diesel by reduction of taxes. Sunflower, rapeseed etc is the raw material used in Europe whereas soyabean is used in USA. Thailand uses palm oil, Ireland uses frying oil and animal fats. Due to its favorable properties, Bio-diesel can be used as fuel for diesel engines (as either, B5-a blend of 5% Bio-diesel in petro-diesel fuel) or B20 or B100). USA uses B 20 and B100 Bio-diesel, France uses B5 as mandatory in all diesel fuel. It can also be used as an additive to reduce the overall sulfur content of blend and to compensate for lubricity loss due to sulfur removal from diesel fuel.
Biodiesel in IndiaArticle 2
Price Policy for BioDiesel : Public sector oil firms have announced a price of Indian Rupees 25 (US$ 0.56) per liter for procuring bio-diesel extracted from non-edible oilseeds for mixing in diesel. The program to sell diesel mixed with non-edible oil extracted from Jatropha Curcas and Pongamia Pinnata, which could cut India's import dependence, but would take 4-5 years to launch on commercial scale. It will take time for adequate quantities of Jatropha Curcas and Pongamia Pinnata to be planted and oil extracted for mixing in diesel.
Bio-Diesel Credit Bank : Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA), www.pcra.org, launched Bio-Diesel Credit Bank. It will co-ordinate activities relating to Carbon Credit.
Price Policy for BioDiesel : Public sector oil firms have announced a price of Indian Rupees 25 (US$ 0.56) per liter for procuring bio-diesel extracted from non-edible oilseeds for mixing in diesel. The program to sell diesel mixed with non-edible oil extracted from Jatropha Curcas and Pongamia Pinnata, which could cut India's import dependence, but would take 4-5 years to launch on commercial scale. It will take time for adequate quantities of Jatropha Curcas and Pongamia Pinnata to be planted and oil extracted for mixing in diesel.
Bio-Diesel Credit Bank : Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA), www.pcra.org, launched Bio-Diesel Credit Bank. It will co-ordinate activities relating to Carbon Credit.
- Field Trials : Several Field trials have been performed.
- Indian Oil Corporation, (IOC) had placed an order of 450 kiloliters of bio-diesel in 2004, for field trials with the Indian Railways and State Roadways. IOC will be able to supplement 5% of diesel with bio-diesel in three years.
- The first phase of the project, by Daimler-chrysler India, in 2003-04 saw production of the indigenous biodiesel and completion of road trials on two C-Class Mercedes-Benz cars. The cars, powered by pure (neat) Biodiesel, traversed the rugged terrain of the country in April-May, 2004, and clocked over 5,900 kilo meters under very hot and humid conditions.
- The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is now in talks with country's biggest truck and bus maker Tata Motors and Indian Oil to take its biofuel project to the next stage, for testing its vehicles on bio-diesel developed from jatropha plant.
- BioFuel Policy : BioFuel policy is being prepared.
- Centre may clear bio-fuel policy by early next year : The Center is likely to come up with a clear-cut bio-diesel policy by early 2006, after the Energy Policy Committee submits its report to the government by November 30, 2005. An in-principle approval is expected to be given by that time, which will be worked into a formal bio-fuel policy later. The report from the committee is expected to make specific proposals which will then be forwarded to the Energy Co-ordination Committee for final acceptance by the government.
- Zero excise duty for bio-fuels on cards : The government is likely to change the excise duty structure for biofuels in the next Budget to make their use attractive. Petroleum ministry officials said the excise duty on biodiesel and ethanol is likely to be made nil and states would be asked to have a favorable sales tax regime.
- Govt to assist, encourage states in bio-diesel production : The government will assist states promote Jatropha cultivation for increasing bio-diesel production in the country under the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, the Rajya Sabha was informed on 7 Dec 2005.
- Andhra Pradesh State Government Introduces Draft Industrial Policy : The Andhra Pradesh government has introduced a draft biodiesel policy to facilitate both investors and farmers to plant oil-bearing trees in 1.5 million acre in the next four years. Also, a risk fund of Indian Rupees 2 Billion is expected to be created, as loan to the state government, to support small and marginal farmers with maximum five acre land holding. There is also a proposal for constituting a biodiesel board, which would be an autonomous board for integrated development of jatropha cultivation and bio-diesel oil in the state. The proposed board, having legal authority, will monitor the tripartite agreement signed between the stake holders, besides assisting, encouraging, and promoting jatropha cultivation, according to the officials involved in preparing the draft policy said. Following the constitution of policy, the government is determined to promote contract farming for buyback of jatropha seeds. The minimum buy-back price will be fixed considering the different variables including the quality and quantity of the produce. A special department called the Rain Shadow Area Department has been created as a special purpose vehicle for planning, coordination, monitoring and implementation of the biodiesel program.
- Commercial Production : Two small units are already in production
- Aatmiya Biofuels Pvt Ltd, 68,G.I.D.C. Por Ramangamdi Taluka & District Vadodara, Gujarat- 391243, Phone No : 0265 2885009, Mobile No : 09879359010, has commercialized the production of biodiesel in Gujarat on 8th March 2005 and now producing 1000 liters/day. The company is promoted by Mr. Umakant Joshi, [email protected] a Chemical Engineer who did his graduation from M.S.University of Vadodara, then post graduate in Chemical Engineering from Delaware University, USA specialized in Bioenergy.
- Gujarat Oelo Chem Limited (GOCL), a Panoli-based firm started on 12th of March 2005, producing bio-diesel from vegetable based feedstock. It released the first commercial consignment of bio-diesel to Indian Oil Corporation (IOC). Head Office : Gujarat Oleo Chem. Ltd., D-315, Crystal Plaza, Oshiwara Link Road, Andheri(W), Mumbai- 400053, Tel : 91-22-2673 3369 / 70 / 71, Fax: 91-22-2634 9195. E-mail: [email protected], Website: www.gujaratoleochem.com. Regd. Off & Works: Plot No. 631-639, GIDC, Panoli, 394 116, Tel : 91-2646-271 730 / 731 / 647, Fax : 91-2646-272195.
- Production Plans : Number of companies are planning to set up new units.
- Kochi Refineries Ltd (KRL) is setting up a pilot plant with a US firm to extract biodiesel from rubber seed oil. An R&D; exercise, the company proposed to look at the feasibility of the project and would initially have a pilot plant set up with a daily capacity of 100 liters. The company has initiated studies into the availability of rubber seed oil from neighboring Tamil Nadu, especially from the Nagercoil belt.
- Another Kochi-based company, TeamSustain Ltd, a division of US-based Dewcon Instruments Inc, is in talks with a US firm for setting up a biodiesel plant in Kochi.
- Pune-based Shirke Biohealthcare Pvt. Lld., 11, Navrang Plaza, Tingre Nagar, Vishrantwadi, Airport Road, Pune, India, 411 015. Tel: 91-20-5623 3110, Cell : 91-9422010236, Fax : 91-20-2581 3993, [email protected], is setting up a refinery at Hinjewadi, with a capacity to process 5,000 liters biodiesel per day from Jatropha plant. The refinery will also produce 1 MW power with the oil cake, apart from natural gas which will be used to run the power plant.
- Renewable energy company Bhoruka Power Corporation Ltd, has received a grant of 100,000 dollars from the US government to conduct a detailed feasibility report for a bio-diesel project in State of Karnataka. The study envisages use of Neem or Pongamia non-edible oilseeds for production of bio-diesel as well as power.
- The Southern Online Biotechnologies Limited, which is setting up a bio-diesel project in Andhra Pradesh, has signed MoU with several government bodies and non-governmental organisations, for procuring raw material like Pongamia Pinnata (Karanja or Kanuga) and Jatropha seed. The oil extracted from this seed is used to produce bio-diesel. The company is setting up the bio-diesel project at an estimated cost of Indian Rupees 150 million at Choutuppal in Andhra Pradesh, with technology from a German company named Lurgi. The plant capacity is 30 tons per day or 90,000 tons per annum. It would require around 100 tons of seeds per day. The annual requirement of seeds is around 32,000 tons. As the current availability of seeds in the state is less than 4,000 tons, company will use other raw materials like acid oils, distilled fatty acids, animal fatty acids and non-edible vegetable oils like neem, rice bran etc.
Continued......
(Sorry for the continuation each time, Pagalguy posts take upto a maximum of 15000 characters in each post)
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- Nova Bio Fuels Pvt. Ltd, is setting up a Indian Rupees 200 million, biodiesel plant with a capacity of 30 tons per day in Panipat in 2006. Their plant would also supply glycerine to local pharma companies.
- Naturol Bioenergy Limited is setting up an integrated biodiesel facility in Andhra Pradesh. The 300 tons per day biodiesel plant will come up in the port town of Kakinada at an estimated cost of Indian Rupees 1.4 billion and would be a 100 per cent export-oriented unit.
- An Indian Rupees 9 million biodiesel plant, is coming up in Ganapathipalayam village, about 20 km away from Pollachi. KTK German Bio Energies India, is all set to commence commercial production of biofuel from January 2006. The plant will use rubber seeds for extraction biodiesel.
- Biodiesel extracted from Pomgamia Pinatta (Karanj) seeds, was commercially launched in Pune in January 2006. The fuel has been produced and marketed by Pune-based Mint Biofuels, Though the plant initially had a capacity of 100 litres per day, it was scaled up to 400 litres per day. The company will set up a Indian Rupees 300 million plant at Chiplun, which will have a capacity of producing 5,000 tons of fuel per day. Plans are afoot to increase the capacity of the plant to 1,00,000 tons within a period of four years.
- Vijayawada based Sagar Jatropha Oil Extractions Private Limited is setting up an Indian Rupees 100 million jatropha oil extraction unit at Gannavaram. The company has also experienced success with contract farming of the jatropha plant in the state. Jatropha oil is mixed with diesel to produce biodiesel.
- British Petroleum on Feb. 2, 2006, declared that it will fund a $9.4 million project in India to see if biodiesel can be produced from a non-edible oil bearing crop. The project by The Energy and Resources Institute in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh will study the feasibility of producing biodiesel from the crop Jatropha Curcas. The 10-year project will cultivate around 8,000 hectares of wasteland with the crop and install equipment needed for seed crushing, oil extraction and processing, to produce 9 million liters of biodiesel per year. The project will also include an environmental and social impact assessment. TERI will run the project's daily operations.
President of India Plants Jatropha Saplings in Mugal Gardens of Rashtrapati Bhavan (Presidential Palace) : Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam has planted Jatropha sapling in Mugal Gardens of Rashtrapati Bhavan. To begin with 800 plants are being planted for educational purposes to promote the use of herbal plants for extracting oil from which bio diesel can be produced. This is being done in collaboration with G.B. Pant Agricultural University, Pantnagar and National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow. A demonstration of Agricultural implements being operated by bio-diesel was also made before the President. President of India Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam always emphasizes on plantation of Jatropha Curcas.
- Every State Government if taking steps to promote Jatropha Curcas and Pomgamia Pinatta.
- Chhattisgarh : The government has planted in 2005, 80 million saplings of jatropha, a source of bio-fuel, as the state attempts to tap non-conventional energy sources. It has set a target of cultivating jatropha plantations in one million hectares in 2006, covering 20,000 hectares in the first phase. The government would work with NGOs for starting 350 jatropha nurseries, each spread over a maximum of 500 hectares, in 2005.
- Andhra Pradesh : State has taken the lead in Jatropha Plantation. The state government has set up a separate department for bringing into productive use the 728,000 hectare cultivable wasteland available for cultivation of Jatropha plantation for production of bio-diesel. The state government is drawing up a roadmap, which will see the involvement of oil majors like Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) and Reliance Industries, to make the state the biggest producer of bio-diesel. It is planning to bring between 4 and 5 million acres of land in seven to eight districts of the state under biodiesel plantations and ensure that micro-irrigation is used in a big way in these areas. This will change the ecology of the area.
- Tamil Nadu : Underutilised lands could turn into fertile farms and farmers can be assured of a price for their produce. This is a project to produce 100 per cent biodiesel from jatropha. D1-Mohan Bio Oils Limited (a joint venture of Mohan Breweries and Distilleries and U.K.based D1 Oils Plc) plans to bring one lakh hectares under jatropha cultivation in Tamil Nadu. Indian Overseas Bank signed an agreement with Coimbatore based Classic Jatropha Oil (India) Ltd for promoting cultivation of jatropha curcas in Tamil Nadu under contract farming. Classic Jatropha Oil, a subsidiary of Tirupur based major knitwear exporters, has been involved in developing the Jatropha cultivation for a long time.
D1 Oil plc. : A UK producer of green fuel, Newcastle-based D1 Oil plc, has 10,000 hectares of the crop planted in India and its target of 267,000 hectares by the end of 2006 is on track.
Reliance Industries Ltd to enter Bio-Fuel : Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) is planning to enter the bio-fuel segment in a big way. To begin with, the company has earmarked 200 acres of land at Kakinada in Andhra Pradesh to cultivate jatropha, which can yield high quality bio-diesel. The area of cultivation will be increased to many thousands of acres depending on the progress of the project. The project is being implemented by Reliance Life Sciences, a subsidiary of RIL.
Several smaller Indian companies are already working towards developing bio-diesel. Companies like Nandan Bioagro and Labland Biotech have tied up with British oil company D1 Oils to produce jatropha and trade in it. The company will encourage hundreds of farmers to cultivate the crop under an arrangement with the company.
A jatropha seed contains 31 to 37 per cent extractable oil. A jatropha plantation over 100,000 hectares is expected to yield 250,000-300,000 tons of crude jatropha oil per annum. It is estimated that an initial 100,000-hectare jatropha farm will yield revenues of $100 million per annum. Reliance is also in talks with Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan Governments, to get access to land for contract farming.
Godrej plans Indian Rupees 5 billion for bio-fuel projects : Godrej Agrovet Ltd is planning to invest over Indian Rupees 5 billion, for jatropha and palm oil cultivation in the states of Gujarat and Mizoram. The company would cultivate jatropha or palm oil according to the nature of the waste land in these states.
According to industry sources, Godrej Agrovet would invest Indian Rupees 2.5 billion for bio-fuel plant cultivation along with the palm oil processing and plant cultivation project in Gujarat while it would invest Indian Rupees 2.5 billion for both jatropha and palm oil cultivation in Mizoram. Godrej would be cultivating both jatropha and palm oil in an area over 10,000 acres in Mizoram as per the fertility of the land. The company is also in the process of setting up mills in Walia (Gujarat) at an estimated cost of $ 10 million.
Emami Ltd, one of the leading toiletries outfit in the country, is planning to enter into the farming of jatropha, a source of biodiesel. The company might float a joint venture outfit with a leading European company in the field of bio-diesel for the new business. Emami group is now talking to some companies in United States, UK and Austria for technical collaboration for the extraction of oil from jatropha. The project will be first of its kind in the Eastern India. The company will start farming of jatropha in Suri in West Bengal and Balasore in Orissa.
Biodiesel will have a pronounced impact on edible oil prices : Prices of both palm and soy oils will firm up in the coming months, with demand for biodiesel alone grabbing at least six million tons of oils despite the slower growth of the economy.
Crude Palm Oil futures have gone up from 1,300-1,500 ringgit to a new higher range of 1,400 to 1,600. As the period October to February advances, prices will creep towards the upper end of this range. Crude de-gummed soy oil would be in the range of $460-500 per ton free on board, while RBD palm olein will be in the $400-450 band and crude palm oil will be between $370-420 free on board.
Malaysia and Indonesia are the world's largest producers and exporters of palm oil, while Brazil and Argentina are among the top soy oil producers. From mid-2006, the use of soy oil for biodiesel will have a pronounced impact on prices, and the total biodiesel capacity coming on stream by the end of 2006/07 will require 1.6 million tons of soya oil. Edible oil imports by India, the world's leading buyer, in 2005/06 could remain flat at around 5.65 million tons, but imports of soy oil will go up at the expense of palm oil.
I am posting faster than you guys can draw a breath or say thank you to me, so let's take a break lads, give time for your grey cells to imbibe all the matter I have presented today. Hoping for some of you to pour in your contributions too. All the best for IRMA test 2006.
Hello Friends!
I would like to thank eprerit and Scorpio_19 for their efforts in starting a forum and giving us details on various rural,Agri and MF based issues.
Thank U guys!!!
I m pratheep from Chennai
Took IRMA last year but cudnt make it
Preparing for the same this year
Guys I would like to share some of GK Qs that were in the paper last year
1.state in india which has maximum irrigated area?Ans Punjab
2.state which has maximum are under crop production
3.which of the following food items is not ditributed through the public distribution schemes? ans: milk and milk products
4.author of argumentative indian? ans: amartya sen
5. deputy chairman of planning commision?ans: m.s.ahluwalia
6. what happens to a crop when it has excessive water?
7. the biofertilizer that is used the most by indian farmers..?Ans: Rhizobium
8.WTO Dir: Pascal Lamy
9.Rural Credit: 3 years doubled
10.When is Kharif crop sown: June-August
11.wat is seed-water-fertilizer revolution called: Green Revolution
12.Who is head of National Commission on Farmers: MS Swaminathan
13.What is a non Institutional source for taking loans: friends and relatives
Will Try to post more questions as and when I recollect.
Friends V can share more details that V can be mutually benifited by this thread
Moreover I would Like to know if any one from chennai focussed much on IRMA?
hey had given irma the previous year made it to gd pi screwed up in pi one thing guys they have a strong inclination for people who will work in ngos and are not looking for managers workin in itc and all any more queries regarding irma pm me the test is quite simple and gk isnt that difficult trust me
Some more questions from CL site
1.The maximum area under the grain cultivation is in which state
2. The maximum productivity of grain (per hectare) is in which state:
3. Which of these is not a variety of silk (tassar, muga, eri, Egyptian)
4. Waterlogging results in the salinity of the soil.
5. Why should the farmers not use the GM varieties?
(i) These will be very costly;
(ii) These demand much water for irrigation;
(iii) Their productivity is not very high, and hence these will not be very fruitful in the Indian conditions.
(a) A and B (b) B and C (c) A and C (d) A, B and C
6. Indias contribution to the export of the dairy-products (options from 0.5% to 5-6%)
7. Which can be effective tools for education of the farmers?
(a) Demonstration;
(b) Mass-media;
(c) Seminars
(I) Only A (ii) only B (iii) B and C (iv) all A, B and C
8. Which country was the first producer of the GM food-variety
Q13. The definition of temporary houses is
Q14. The banks finance the SHG (self help groups), which institution refinances these to service the debt (options wereNABARD, CARPAT etc);
Q15. The average Indian farmer needs credit facility, because
(1) he has low income and doesnt have money for agriculture;
(2) he has no resources to augment the productivity of the land which is low
(3)
(a) 1 and 2 (b) 2 and 3 (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) only 2 (e) none of abo
Q15. Which of these is a communicable disease: (a) asthma, (b) cancer, (c) TB (d) diabetes (e) none of these
Q16. Content of protein in the diets of an average Indian (50 gramsetc.)
Q17. What should be the minimum intake of calories for healthy living: 1000 Kcal, 1500, 2100, and 3500?
Q18. The percentage of Indian children facing malnutrition is:
Q19. The Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) covers 2.5 Crore families, what percentage does it constitute of the total population falling below the poverty line (BPL section of India)?
Q20. Low productivity of Indian laborers can be because
(d) They are not paid regularly and nicely
(e) 60% of the pregnant women suffer from malnutrition, and hence the labourer is physically weak since childhood
(f)
(1) Only A (2) Only B (3) A, B and C
Poverty and employment:
Q21. In 90s, the Rural Development Programmes initiated were
(g) JRY
(h) .
(i) .
Gender:
Q22. Amartya Sen has opined that the Indian women suffer from double deprivation. What could he have meant?
(j) Their life-expectancy is lesser;
(k) Their worked are invisible and
(l) They are doing good in higher education;
(m) In the urban areas, they are earning so just men are not the breadwinners.
Q23: 2004 was acclaimed internationally as the Year of
Consumer issue:
Q25. The World Consumers Day falls on
Q26: What do you think the rights of consumers can be?
(i) Rights of redressal,
(ii) Right of choice;
(iii) Right to safety
(a) A and B (b) Only B (c) Only C (d) A, B and C (e) None of Above
Global concerns regarding the development:
Q27: Pascal Lamy has recently joined as
Q28: The Argumentative Indian is authored by
Q29: What is true regarding the difference between the developed and the developing countries?
(1) The GDP of the developed countries is much higher than the GDP of the developing countries;
(2) The Per Capita Income in the developed countries is very high compared to the developing countries and the gap is widening;
(3) The high-income country may not be a developed country.
(a) Only 1 and 2 (b) Only 2 and 3 (c) Only 1 and 3 (d) A, B and C (e) None of Above
Q30: According to the WDR, the equity means
(1) Equality of opportunity,
(2) Equality to education;
(3) Equality of employment;
(a) Only A and C (b) Only B and C (c) Only A and B
Guys i'm kind of new to this forum. I'm very determined to get through IRMA. I was searching for some articles about rural india for ages. I'll try to share my knowledge with u. Thank u so much Eprerit, for starting such a wonderful thread. And thank u scorpio for those great articles:smilecol:
Hello people!
As we all know in IRMA paper the section on Issues on social concern is comparitively tougher than other sections,as serious aspirants we should focus more on this.
The preparation for other exams is sufficient to answer Quants,Analytical and verbal.
Career Frum in its monthly magzine " Career Economy-The Gateway to Top B-Schools" publishes a "Mock IRMA" , a set of 60Qs on social issues with their explanations everymonth.This will be of great help to most of Us.
Friends!
Its time and we have to start seriously
This year IRMA exam is going to be held on 26th November,only 6 days after CAT
Source IRMA website:
IRMA Admissions 2007 Announcement
Written test for admissions to Programme in Rural Management (PRM) 2007-2009 and Fellow Programme in Rural Management (FPRM) 2007-2009 will be held on 26th November 2006 (Sunday). Please stand by for detailed advertisement which will appear in this website and national daily newspapers shortly.
Hello People There!
With only 105 days left with us
Its high time we start discussing social issues in this thread
Common guys V will make this thread beneficial to every IRMA aspirant!
Hi Guys guess i discovered this thread a little late.Anyways nice to c so many IRMA Aspirants hear.Me to in the same club.Been working with an NGO from past 1 year in the resource mobilization department.Been preparing for CAT and IRMA.Thanks a lot to all the guys behind this thread.
Just a suggestion..i hope every has read "Foutune at the end of pyramid" coz thats like the first think we should do wen we day irma.It written by C.K.Prahlad.However if you havent read it..do read it before ur PI (if you dont have time now..considerin you guys are preparing for exam).
Yes As U said its one of the nice books..
Guy U can also read " I TOO HAD A DREAM" By Dr.Kurien more than knowledge it gives much inspiration.
and " End of Poverty " by Jeffy Sachs is worth reading
hi everyone!! well....i will b taking irma exam this year. i really want to get through irma. cud anyone tell me how to prepare for issue of social concerns section? waiting eagerly for reply...btw where are all the seniors? hey seniors we really need ur guidance so plz pour in with ur replies...