A policy dedicated to promoting the interests of consumers as a whole, which includes public concerns over the rights of consumers, the quality of consumer goods, and the honesty of advertising. Few people also view it as a term used to describe the effects of equating personal happiness with purchasing material possessions and consumption.

In economics, consumerism can also refer to economic policies that place an emphasis on consumption, and, in an abstract sense, the belief that the free choice of consumers should dictate the economic structure of a society.

Movement or policies aimed at regulating the products, services, methods, and standards of manufacturers, sellers, and advertisers in the interests of the buyer. Such regulation may be institutional, statutory, or embodied in a voluntary code accepted by a particular industry, or it may result more indirectly from the influence of consumer organizations. Governments often establish formal regulatory agencies to ensure consumer protection.

 
 
Read more...
 
 

Bentley launches
Continental GTC
Read more...



Pista Barfi
Cashew Barfi
Doodh Pak
Jalebi
Kalakanth
Ghathia - A Diwali snack
Gujia / Karanjia

Read more...



IDLDPL Launches the New Parrot CK 3100 Bluetooth Car Kit
Read more...



Cell Phone Driving Tips
Use hands free devices
Read more...


A quick-fix Diwali clean-up
Add sparkle to Diwali
Read more...



Know Your Ingredient - Lemon Grass
Read more...



Revolution In
Metal Cutting Industry
Read more...

 
 

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It’s Evolution:


The ideology came into full focus in the 1960s after President John F. Kennedy introduced the Consumer Bill of Rights, which stated that the consuming public has a right to be safe, to be informed, to choose, and to be heard.

Fuel was added to the fire in 1966 with the publication of Ralph Nader's book Unsafe at Any Speed, which attacked portions of the automotive industry. When corruption of government officials in the Watergate scandal of the seventies, and inflation and widespread consumer disenchantment with the quality of many American products were combined with the greater sophistication brought about by consumer advocates, consumerism became a powerful, action-oriented movement. The primary concern of this force is to fulfill and protect the rights of consumers articulated by President Kennedy some four decades ago.

Consumerism is an addiction to satisfying one's needs through material things. Corporate power is rooted in consumerism because consumer demand now accounts for two-thirds of all U.S. economic activity. This syndrome has been reached partly because Americans are exposed to hundreds of advertisements each day, and from early age television and films have taught them to associate success with new and expensive items, as opposed to useful and practical items. It has taught all - products can replace healthy social contact with others. One conservative estimate has indicated that the average American uses 30 times the goods of an average third-world resident.

Although consumerism is commonly associated with the Western world, it is multi-cultural and non-geographical, as seen today in Tokyo, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Taipei, Tel Aviv and Dubai, for example. Consumerism, as in people purchasing goods or consuming materials in excess of their basic needs, is as old as the first civilizations (see Ancient Egypt, Babylon and Ancient Rome, for example). Since consumerism began, various individuals and groups have consciously sought an alternative lifestyle through simple living.

While consumerism is not a new phenomenon, it has only become widespread over the 20th century and particularly in recent decades, under the influence of neo-liberal capitalism.

The need for Corporates to increase profits

In the ideal market envisioned by economists, there are few barriers to entry and there is considerable competition among sellers. Competition keeps profits at normal levels and properly allocates resources. Yet the largest corporations now dictate the direction of global business. One percent of all multinational corporations now own half the total stock of foreign direct investment. In short, a few of these corporations are consolidating their hold on the global economy. Allowing this kind of control over the global economy has dire effects on local economies. In both the U.S. and across the globe, many large corporations, either directly or through intermediaries, are obeying the implacable logic of capital by creating barriers to entry, stifling local economies, and racing to liquidate finite resources.

The Corporate Propaganda

People actually remember few ads, but they do have an effect. Their purpose is to manipulate us so that we consume goods or services with as little reflection as possible. Even if they fail to sell a product, they sell consumerism by appealing to our insecurities and reminding us there's a solution to a problem if we buy it. Other advertisements encourage us to buy their products to pursue the happiness and freedom we supposedly crave at the expense of community and family life.



How do I know that I've been affected?

  • You wonder why your neighbours always need the latest status symbols
  • You feel you're working harder for less compared to 10 years ago
  • Film critics seem to be pushing big-budget films that you don't like
  • Advertising seems to be out of control
  • You wonder why the news constantly dodges "real" issues
  • You or a friend have been laid off because of "downsizing"

What can I do ?

What can you do? It doesn't require a lot of time, money or effort. It's just adopting a few simple changes to your lifestyle from the list below. We can all make a difference!

Adopt voluntary simplicity. This involves finding a new balance in life between the "old days" and your neighbours' mindless consumerism.

Avoid multinationals. Avoid national retail and food chains, and shop instead at locally-owned stores or local chains. You may pay a little higher, but your money will be better spent.

Choose products you wish others would buy. It starts with you. Skip products with excess packaging. Choose organic vegetables and fruits at the grocery store. And try to let the store know your views (a fax is quick and non-confrontational).

Research. If you invest, research corporations you invest in. Unethical multinationals should be avoided.

Don't buy into marketing. Instead of pacifying your child with the latest marketing gimmick, find clever toys that will provide hours of fun over the long run.

Mass transit. Adoption of mass transit is a key to ending the influence of corporate power. If you think you could use mass transit, demand it from your local representatives. Don't take no for an answer.

Circumvent advertising. Make unyielding use of your television mute button during commercial breaks. (Why won't they make a video mute or a timed mute?)

Eliminate debt. Eliminate all unnecessary credit cards, which encourage indebtedness and consumption beyond one's means. Use ATM cards where possible (debit cards carry more risks with theft than credit cards do).

Education. On your web site, spout off on consumerism and corporate power. Tell others. Word of mouth really works.

Support "Buy Nothing Day". The next day is on November 26, See Adbusters for this and great posters to spread the word. It may not put a dent in corporate earnings, but it will certainly raise awareness.

Discover the outdoors. Satisfaction doesn't have to come from products, programming, or services. Spend your weekends biking, hiking, or fishing.

Consumer Protection

Some of the earliest consumer-protection laws were created to prevent the sale of tainted food and harmful drugs. The U.S. consumer protection movement gained strength in the 1960s and '70s as consumer activists led by Ralph Nader lobbied for laws setting safety standards for automobiles, toys, and numerous household products. Consumer advocates have also won passage of laws obliging advertisers to represent their goods truthfully and preventing sales representatives from using deceptive sales tactics. Consumer advocacy is carried on worldwide by the International Organization of Consumers Unions (IOCU).

By "consumerism" we mean the process of realising the rights of the consumer as envisaged in any Consumer Protection Act and ensuring right standards for the goods and services for which one makes a payment.

Increasing consumer awareness and lending more teeth to consumer protection act, has made manufacturers, traders and service providers conscious of quality in a liberalized market-driven economy. This has also made them more competitive in global trade.

Consumer Protection in India

The issues relating to consumer welfare affects an entire population since everyone is a consumer in one way or the other. Ensuring consumer welfare is thus the responsibility of the government. The Department of Consumer Affairs was created in India to exclusively focus on protecting the rights of consumers, redressal of consumer grievances and to promote standards of goods and services. Accepting this, policies have been framed and the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, was introduced.

A separate Department of Consumer Affairs was also created in the Central and State Governments to exclusively focus on ensuring the rights of consumers as enshrined in the Act. This Act has been regarded as the most progressive, comprehensive and unique piece of legislation.

Important Milestone

One of the most important milestones in the area of consumer protection in India is the enactment of Consumer Protection Act, 1986 and the Consumer Protection (Amendment) Act, 2002.

The Consumer Protection Act applies to all goods and services and covers all persons and all sectors; private, public or cooperative. The Act enshrines: Right to be protected against marketing goods and providing services, which are hazardous to life and property; Right to be informed about the quality, quantity, potency, purity, standard and price of goods or services so as to protect the consumer against unfair trade practices; Right to be assured, wherever possible, access to a variety of goods and services at competitive prices; Right to be heard and to be assured that consumers’ interests will receive due consideration at appropriate fora; Right to seek redressal against unfair trade practices or unscrupulous exploitation of consumers; and Right to consumer education.

Consumer Courts

To provide simple, speedy and inexpensive redressal to consumer grievances under the Act, a 3-tier quasi-judicial machinery popularly known as the consumer courts have been set up at national, state and district levels. The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) referred to as National Commission is the apex consumer redressal forum and is located in New Delhi. Each state has a Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission known as the State Commission. The National Commission and the State Commissions can constitute a bench with one or more members and can also hold circuit benches for deciding consumer cases. Similarly, every district in the country has a Consumer Dispute Redressal Forum known as the District Forum. There is a nominal court fee required to be paid for filing a complaint before a District Forum, the State Commission or the National Commission by an aggrieved consumer. There is a provision for appeals in higher forums and an appeal against the orders of the National Commission could be filed with Supreme Court within a period of 30 days from the date of the order.

Awareness

In terms of the Consumer protection Act, Consumer Disputes Redressal Agencies have been set up at the district, State and National level, comprising 607 District Fora, 35 State Commissions & the National Commission as the Apex body, to provide simple, inexpensive and time bound justice to the consumer complaints against defective goods, deficient services including the unfair/trade practices adopted by the traders or any person.

The Department uses print and electronic media for creating consumer awareness. Further, programmes have also been organized, in consultation with song and drama division, to spread consumer awareness message to the rural masses in their vernacular languages. A special campaign has also been conceived for north eastern region for spreading consumer awareness messages through musical concerts.

Monitoring – Prices of Essential Commodities

The Price Monitoring Cell (PMC), which was set up after the abnormal rise in prices of essential commodities like onion and pulses in 1998, is entrusted, inter-alia, with the task of monitoring of the prices and availability of essential commodities in the country. It regularly monitors on a daily basis the retail prices of 14 essential commodities, viz., rice, wheat, atta, gram, tur /arhar, tea, milk, sugar, vanaspati, mustard oil, groundnut oil, potato, onion and salt. For monitoring of prices, information on daily retail prices of 14 essential commodities from 18 centres and wholesale prices on weekly basis from 37 centres spread all over the country are collected through the Civil Supplies Departments of State Governments /UT Administrations. From July 2006, nine additional centres have been included in the Daily Price Report.

The retail prices of essential commodities are updated daily in the website of the Department of Consumer Affairs: http://fcamin.nic.in.

Forward Trading and Forward Markets Commission

Forward Markets Commission (FMC) is a statutory body set up under the Forward Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1952 (FCR Act) and functions under the administrative Control of the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution. The FMC regulates forward markets in commodities through the recognized associations, recommends to the Government the grant / withdrawal of recognition to the associations organizing forward trading in commodities and makes recommendations for the general improvement of the functioning of forward markets in the country.

At present, there are 24 Commodity Futures Exchanges including three ‘national level’ Exchanges, which have been recognized under FCR Act for conducting futures / forward trading in India. All the commodities have been permitted for futures trading since 2003. Recently, few non-conventional commodities like Crude oil, Polymers, Electricity etc have also been brought under the purview of Section 15 of the Forward Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1952.

Bureau of Indian Standards

Bureau of Indian Standards is a National Standards Body involved in operation of Product Certification Scheme for use of ISI Mark on a large number of products depicting that products thus marked conforms to the relevant Indian Standards. BIS is engaged in formulation of Indian Standards for 14 sectors namely Chemicals, Food and Agriculture, Civil, Electrical, Electronics & Telecommunications and Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, Management & Systems, Metallurgical Engineering, Petroleum Coal & related Products, Medical and Hospital Planning, Textile, Transport engineering and Production and General Engineering, Water Resources under Fourteen Division Councils which have 302 Sectional committees working under them. Initially in 1947, the erstwhile ISI started with two broad divisions namely Textiles and Engineering which has now grown to the current strength.

BIS is operating a Certification Marks Scheme for more than five decades. Hallmarking Scheme of Gold Jewellery was launched in April 2000 to protect consumer against victimization due to irregular gold quality, develop export competitiveness and make India as a leading gold market centre in the World. The scheme voluntary in nature is operated under BIS Act 1986 through BIS network of Regional and Branch offices all across the country.

In the last international conference on consumer protection held in Malaysia in 1997, the Indian Consumer Protection Act was described as one "which has set in motion a revolution in the fields of consumer rights, the parallel of which has not been seen anywhere else in the world."

The success of "consumerism" is a strong function of consumer awareness and the assistance the movement gets from the government. The consumer movement got a boost and moral support from the late U.S. President John F. Kennedy in the historic declaration in Congress on March 15, 1962, declaring four basic consumer rights (choice, information, safety and the right to be heard). Subsequently, March 15 every year is celebrated as World Consumer Rights Day.

Source: http://www.weathergraphics.com/tim/economy.htm
http://www.indianmuslims.info/news/2007/sep/06/consumer_protecton_india.html
http://www.hinduonnet.com/folio/fo9910/99100060.htm

 

Bentley launches Continental GTC
October 12, 2007

UK-based luxury car maker Bentley Motors has wheeled in two new models in the Indian market. Called Azure and Continental GTC, the two convertible models come at a price tag of Rs 3.80 and 2.10 crore (ex showroom prices) respectively.

Continental GTC has a 6 liter W12 cylinder twin turbo charged engine. The super luxury car has a top speed of 312kmph and delivers a peak power of 552 bhp, according to Bentley. The 4804 mm long and 1919mm wide car and has a torque of 650 Nm @ 1600 rpm.

Interior Technology

Cutting-edge technology complements traditional Bentley hand-craftsmanship. The advanced cabin features include an infotainment system incorporating DVD Satellite Navigation, built-in Bluetooth rSAP telephone system and telephone voice dialling, multi-function steering wheel, and keyless entry and ignition.

Specification:

Engine  
Engine Capacity 5998cc
Bore / Stroke 84mm / 90.2mm
Max. Power 552bhp / 560PS / 411kW @ 6100rpm
Max.Torque 650Nm, 479 lb-ft @ 1600rpm
Compression Ratio 9.0:1
Emission Level EU4 / LEV2
Fuel 98 (95) RON

Driveline And Transmission
Continuous all-wheel drive
6-speed automatic transmission

Performance
Max. Speed 195mph / 312km/h  
Acceleration 0 - 60mph 4.8 seconds
Acceleration 0 - 100km/h 5.1 seconds
* Power rating based on 98 RON fuel    


Weights And Volumes
EU Drive Cycle    
Urban 10.8mpg 26.2 litres/100km
Extra-Urban 23.7mpg 11.9 litres/100km
Combined 16.5mpg 17.1 litres/100km
Co2 emissions (combined) 410g/km  

Fuel Consumption
Kerb weight 2485kb 5478 lb
Gross Vehicle Weight 2900kg 6393 lb
Boot Volume 260L 0.26m3 (9.18 cu.ft)
Fuel tank capacity 90L 19.8 Gallons / 23.8 US Gallons

Dimensions
Overall Length 4804mm 189.13 in
Width across body 1918mm 75.51 in
Width across mirrors 2101mm 82.72 in
Height 1398mm 55.04 in
Wheel Base 2745mm 108.07 in
Turning Circle (kerb to kerb) 11400mm 448.82 in
Front Leg-room 1075mm 42.32 in
Rear Leg-room 743mm 29.25 in

Interior Specification

  • Full premium grade hide interior – choice of 17 colours
  • Choice of 8 interior roof headling colours
  • Carpets and safety belts to match all hides
  • Single tone, hide-trimmed multi-function steering wheel in a 4-spoke design
  • Hide and chrome trimmed gear lever with manual shift change facility
  • Steering column mounted gearshift paddles
  • Stainless steel surfaced foot-pedals and driver’s footrest
  • Engine start / stop button (linked to keyless entry / start system)
  • Burr Walnut unbleached premium veneer to fascia and front and rear console
  • Infotainment system incorporating DVD Satellite Navigation and rear console
  • 6xCD changer incorporated in the glove compartment
  • Satellite radio (Sirius) (N.America only)
  • Bluetooth telephone system with remote SIM access profile integrated into the infotainment system
    Telephone voice dialling (N/A Japan)
  • Electronic park brake with move-off assist (move-off assist N/A N.America)
  • Electronically-adjustable front seats with memory and heating settings
  • Dual-zone electronic climate control
  • Chrome wind deflector

To read more please visit the site on the link provided
http://www.bentleymotors.com/Corporate/display.aspx?infid=41

 

Diwali the “Festival of Lights” - Recipes to make your celebrations all the more tempting

Recipe taken from : http://www.tarladalal.com/recipe.asp?id=1999

Pista Barfi

Cooking Time : 20 mins.
Preparation Time : 10 mins.
Makes approx. 1 1/4 cups.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (100 grams) pistachios
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
  • A few drops of green food colouring (optional)

Method

  • Soak the pistachios in warm water for about 30 minutes.
  • Drain all the water, peel the pistachios and blend them to a fine paste in a food processor. Keep aside.
  • Dissolve the sugar in 1/2 cup of water and prepare a syrup of one string consistency.
  • Add the pista paste, cardamom powder and green colour and cook over a slow flame, stirring continuously till the mixture leaves the sides of the pan (approx. 5 to 7 minutes).
  • Transfer to a plate and cool slightly. Keep aside. Use as required.

Cashew Barfi

Cooking Time : 20 mins.
Preparation Time : 10 mins.
Makes 1 1/4 cups.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (100 grams) cashewnuts, broken
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon canned powder

Method

  • Soak the cashewnuts in warm water for about 30 minutes and wash them 2 to 3 times.
  • Drain all the water out and blend the cashewnuts to a fine paste. Keep aside.
  • Dissolve the sugar in 1/2 cup of water and prepare a syrup of one string consistency.
  • Add the cashew paste and cook over a medium flame, stirring continuously till the mixture leaves the sides of the pan (approx. 5 to 7 minutes).
  • Transfer to a plate and cool slightly. Keep aside.
  • Use as required.

Doodh Pak

Recipes Taken from : http://www.diwalifestival.org/recipes-for-deepawali.html

Ingredients

  • 1/2 Cup Almonds
  • 1 Litre Milk
  • 250 Grams Sugar
  • 1 Teaspoon Cardamom Powder
  • 1 Teaspoon Saffron
  • 1 Tablespoon Pistachios
  • 11/2 Tablespoon Raisins

Method of cooking

  • Soak the almonds in warm water for 1 hour. Peel and grind to a fine paste. Dissolve the saffron in 1 tablespoon of warm milk and keep aside.
  • Boil the milk in a heavy bottomed pan, stirring constantly. Add the almond paste and simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring regularly. Add the saffron, sugar, pista and raisins. Cook on a very low flame till thick. Sprinkle cardamom powder.
  • Serve hot or chilled.

Jalebi

Ingredients :

  • White gram dal - 500gm
  • Water - 1litre
  • Sugar - 1kg
  • Coconut oil or refined oil - 1kg
  • Jalebi colour (orange) - 5 drops
  • Salt - to taste

Preparation :

Finely grind the white gram dal with little water.

  • Mix salt in it and make a smooth batter of semi-thick consistency.
  • Heat sugar in a pan and add water into it. Add the jalebi colour and remove from the fire when it thickens.
  • Heat oil in a thick bottom vessel. Squeeze the prepared batter into the oil through a thin layered cloth.
  • While squeezing the batter, first make three rounds and a flower shape on top.
  • When it is done (don't fry), remove from oil. Allow oil to drain. Put the jalebis into the warm sugar syrup. Take them out after they soak in the syrup for about 15 minutes.
  • Make jalebi's with the whole batter.

Kalakanth

Ingredients

  • Milk - 1litre
  • Sugar - 41/2tbs
  • Citric Acid or Lemon juice - a pinch or drop
  • Cardamom - 5,6 nos

Method

  • Boil milk on a low flame by stirring continuously.
  • After 15 minutes, slowly add the citric acid dissolved in hot water.
  • Stir continuously while adding it. When the mixture thickens (paste consistency), add sugar.
  • If necessary, add cardamom powder.
  • Remove from fire after 5 minutes and transfer the content evenly on a greased vessel. When cool, cut into desired shapes.

Ghathia - A Diwali snack

Source : http://www.indiavisitinformation.com/indian-recipe/sweets/Ghathia.shtml

Ingredients

  • 1/2 kg. Wheat Flour
  • 11/2 cups. Water
  • 1 1/2 tsp. Ajwain
  • 2 tbsp.. Oil
  • Oil for frying As required
  • Salt according to taste

Method

  • Sieve the wheat flour and rub the oil into it.
  • Then add the salt, Ajwain (oregano) and mix well.
  • Make a well in the center, add enough water and knead into a stiff dough.
  • Heat oil in a kadhai, to smoking point.
  • Roll out the dough into big size Chapati and cut it into long strips.
  • Now put these long strips into the hot oil.
  • Remove from the oil when crisp and golden brown in color.
  • Drain on tissue paper, cool and store in airtight containers.

Gujia/Karanjia

Source : http://www.indiavisitinformation.com/indian-recipe/sweets/Gujia-Karanjia.shtml

Ingredients

For the cover :

  • 1 cup plain flour, (Maida)
  • 1 tbs. ghee (Clarified butter)
  • Water to knead

For the filling :

  • 1/2 cup coconut flakes, fine
  • 1/2 cup khoya
  • 1tbs poppy seeds (khuskhus)
  • 1tsp cardamom powder
  • 1tbs crushed almond
  • 1/4 cup sugar, ground
  • 10 to 15 raisins

Method

For the cover :

  • Mix flour and Ghee(clarified butter) well. Add enough water to make soft pliable dough. Keep aside.

For the filling :

  • Roast khoya to a light pink by stirring continuously over low heat. Cool and break in fine crumbs with fingers.
  • Now roast coconut flakes lightly. Cool. Mix all other ingredients. Check for sweetness.

To Proceed :

  • Make small round, not too thin, not too thick.
  • Place 1 tsp. filling in one half of round. Fold over the other half, sealing in the mixture.
  • Seal edges by twisting or pressing together. Make all in the same way.
  • Dry on clean cloth for 30minutes. Deep fry in hot Ghee(clarified butter) on low flame till light brown on both sides.
  • Drain and cool completely before storing.

 

IDLDPL Launches the New Parrot CK 3100 Bluetooth Car Kit

At the time, when legislation is tightening up to restrict the use of mobile phones while driving, due to safety concerns, people are aggressively looking for innovative products, which can help them to use their mobile phones without even touching the phone. This is not just for the sake of receiving a call but it’s also becoming a demanding business necessity. IDLDPL proudly announces the launch of the new product Parrot CK3100, which can offer as much connectivity as required and sigh of relief to the mobile phone user while driving. The biggest advantage of this product is that Parrot CK3100 wirelessly connects with all Bluetooth phones available in the market. Furthermore, IDLDPL, the largest distributors of lifestyle products in India, announcing the launch of this next-generation "Parrot CK3100 Bluetooth car Kit" in the Indian market.

The display of the Parrot CK3100 provides the similar visual information and functions similarly as the mobile phones such as- caller ID, carrier signal strength, or last calls received, in large well-contrasted digits, easy to read at a glance on the screen which can be clipped in an ideal position for the driver to see.

You just need to turn on your cars engine and the phone connects wirelessly to the Parrot CK3100 Car Kit. The screen unit has easy-to-navigate menu options just like your mobile phone, and your mobile phone book is wirelessly downloaded to the car kit. Calls can be dialled either through the screen, or by using voice-recognition speed dialling. According to your phone's model and firmware, most features are accessible from the hands free console, including one-touch redial, dual call, as well as auto-answering options.

The display of the Parrot CK3100 provides the similar visual information and functions similarly as the mobile phones such as- caller ID, carrier signal strength, or last calls received, in large well-contrasted digits, easy to read at a glance on the screen which can be clipped in an ideal position for the driver to see.

Parrot CK 3100 specifications:

  • Seamless hands-free use
  • Comfort and safety while driving
  • Superior user interface with LCD display
  • Works with all Bluetooth® phones
  • Can be installed in any vehicle
  • Automatically mutes the radio
  • Uses the car speakers
  • Audio volume control
  • Quality audio (Digital Signal Processing)
  • Up to fives devices can use the system
  • No cradle
  • No wire, no headset
  • No headset battery to charge
  • Voice recognition dialler
  • Software upgradeable

What's in the Box

The CK3100 electronic control unit, LCD display with buttons and cable, microphone with cable, radio mute cable with line output (ISO cable), power supply cable, and a user guide in 7 languages.

Speaking on this new class of products, Mr.Surinder Saini, Brand manager for Parrot at IDLDPL says, “Parrot CK3100 Car Kit is one of the most advanced Bluetooth devices for the car users. Every self-driven cars owners must have this product as it is safe and provides no distraction because of its voice recognized dialling and receiving capability; just tell the name of the person, you need to talk, you are online. Whether it is legal or illegal, it is a secondary thing, but it is a fact that every body receives and makes calls while driving and why not you do it without any hassles. Particularly, the business executives who are on wheels for them it is a must. I believe, this product will catch a very large market in a short span of time.”

Pricing and Availability: Priced at Rs 10,990. This product range is easily available in the Indian market through most of the Automobile showrooms, large retail stores and B2C websites.

Site URL : http://www.parrot.com/usa/products/ck3100-lcd

 

Cell Phone Driving Tips

With the number of cell phone users increasing, the risk of driving with it has also reached alarming proportions. The tips listed are for all existing and to-be mobile drivers of today.

Get to know your phone

Get to know your phone and its features such as speed dial and redial. Carefully read your instruction manual and learn to take advantage of valuable features most phones offer including, automatic redial and memory dial-most phones can store up to 99 numbers in memory dial. Also, work to memorize the phone keypad so you can use the speed dial function without taking your attention off the road.

Use hands free devices***

When available, use a hands free device. A number of hands free wireless phone accessories are readily available today. Whether you choose an installed mounted device for your phone or a speaker phone accessory, take advantage of these devices if available to you.

Position your phone within easy reach

Position your phone within easy reach. Make sure you place your wireless phone within easy reach and where you can grab it without removing your eyes from the road. If you get an incoming call at an inconvenient time, let your voice mail answer it for you.

Suspend conversation during hazardous conditions

Suspend conversations during hazardous driving conditions or situations. Let the person you are speaking to know you are driving; if necessary, suspend the call in heavy traffic or hazardous weather conditions. Rain, sleet, snow and ice can be hazardous, but so is heavy traffic. As a driver, your first responsibility is to pay attention to the road.

Pay attention to the road

Do not take notes or look up phone numbers while driving. If you are reading an address book or business card while driving a car, or writing a "to do" list, then you are not watching where you are going. It's common sense. Don't get caught in a dangerous situation because you are reading or writing and not paying attention to the road or nearby vehicles.

Dial sensibly and assess the traffic

Dial sensibly and assess the traffic; if possible, place calls when you are not moving or before pulling into traffic. Try to plan your calls before you begin your trip, or attempt to coincide your calls with times you may be stopped at a stop sign, red light or otherwise stationary. But if you need to dial while driving, follow this simple tip-dial only a few numbers, check the road and your mirrors, then continue.

Do not engage in distracting conversations

Do not engage in stressful or emotional conversations that may be distracting. Stressful or emotional conversations and driving do not mix-they are distracting and even dangerous when you are behind the wheel. Make people you are talking with aware you are driving and if necessary, suspend phone conversations which have the potential to divert your attention from the road.

Use your phone to call for help

Use your phone to call for help. Your wireless phone is one of the greatest tools you can own to protect yourself and your family in dangerous situations-with your phone at your side.

Use your phone to help others

Use your phone to help others in emergencies. Your wireless phone provides you a perfect opportunity to be a "good Samaritan" in your community. If you see an auto accident, crime in progress or other serious emergency where lives are in danger, call the emergeny numbers as you would want others to do for you.

Some Handy Tips

Use your cell phone only when parked, or have a passenger use it. Never dial the phone or take notes while driving.

If your phone rings while driving, let the cellular voice mail service take the call and listen to the message later when you are parked.

Make sure the phone is easy to see and reach.

Get to know your phone and its features (such as speed dial and redial).

If you must answer your phone, let the person you are speaking to know you are driving; suspend the call until you can pull over.

Do not engage in stressful or emotional conversations (on your phone or with passengers in your car) that may divert your attention from the road.

AND, for those who would argue that talking on your cell phone is no more dangerous than putting on makeup, eating fast food, or reading a map while driving. Think twice

Horrible Health Hazards:

Two minutes of exposure to emissions from mobile phones can disable a safety barrier in blood causing proteins and toxins to leak into the brain, could increase chances of developing Alzheimer’s multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s. (Scientists at Sweden’s Lund University)

Scientists say exposure to the phones’ low-level radiation causes red blood cells to leak haemoglobin and can lead to heart disease and kidney stones.

Recent studies suggesting a link between cell-phone use and brain tumors, and the possibility that the microwaves could ignite petroleum fumes at gas stations.

(***Note: Studies have shown that the distraction of a driver's attention from the road contributes to accidents involving cellular phones and that handsfree devices do not reduce the incidence of accidents***)

Source : http://www.autoindia.com/News/auto-news-india773.html

 

A quick-fix Diwali clean-up

If you are yet to begin doing up your home for Diwali, don't fret. Here are 10 quick-fix ways that are light on the pocket and sure to help you give your interiors that coveted glow.

1. First things first. Giving the house a clean look is very important. It may take a few hours, but an intense session on the interiors with a broom and duster will do half the job for you. Do not leave anything undone, be it the curtains, sofas or fans.

2. Get all leakages and faulty electrical fittings fixed. Diwali is a festival of lights and symbolises brightness. Avoid leaving any corner dark or grimy. "Getting the house utilities functional will also save you time during workdays in the future.

3. To give your rooms a new look, try a few stained-glass artifacts and paintings for the walls. You can buy them at a home store or even a roadside stall, at prices as low as Rs 150-200 a piece. The contrasting colours on a glass base make for more space in the interiors.

4. To add a glittering hue to your home, try new lampshades. While a floor lamp adds dimension to the room, designer table/roof lamps brighten up the aura in multiple hues. The astonishing variety, from paper scrap to stained glass, available at stores comes at a range of prices, starting at Rs 100.

5. Try bringing home new curtains. "To add sparkle to Diwali, one needn't get the entire household redone, considering it not only requires time but is also prohibitively expensive. The ready-to-hook curtains in vogue are easily available at all leading furnishing stores for Rs 200 apiece onwards.

6. The markets this year are flooded with multiple diya holders that can be placed inside the house or at the door. The traditional diya lighting complements the trendy designs of the holders, available in decorated clay and wrought iron. The brightness of a room is further enhanced by this combination.

7. It may be a good idea to visit a garden nursery and pick up plants and bonsais. Making a corner inside for these won't be difficult and the exuberance of green in your home will do just right for the festive season. Don't forget to light a diya in this corner too.

8. Do not miss out on the essential potpourri and floating floral candles that make your interiors aromatic and colourful. Widely available, these can be bought for as little as Rs 150.

9. If your home is still reeling under the aftermath of the monsoons, it may be a good time to give wallpaper a shot. Pick any wall that needs a makeover the most. Papering takes less than three hours and lightens the decor for a long time. "It adds not just brightness, but also a theme to the room. With several companies now rendering the service at reasonable rates, festival offers and jet speeds, it will definitely help give your house a makeover.

10. End it all with a bright rangoli at home. This traditional decor tool has now become uncommon, but stands as an ideal source of colourful welcome to the New Year. Those trying to remember if they have ever made a rangoli needn't fret -- get yourself a rangoli colour-and-stencil kit, now easily available. You can also use rangoli stickers that stay a lot longer.

The pointers suggested above should not take you more than a day to try out. The options are also easy to find. So get your shopping list straight, and get set to welcome the New Year in style.

 

Know Your Ingredient - Lemon Grass

An ingredient that has seized the western imagination in recent years quite dramatically is lemon grass. At one time, this scented grass was little known outside the tropics of south-east Asia, but today it is widely grown in many parts of the world. Some would rightly say it is a herb, some would take it as grass but the fact remains that lemon grass is both of these!

Lemon grass is a perennial tuffed plant with bulbous base that grows in dense clumps. The cut stems are about 20 cm/8 inch long and resemble fat spring onions (scallions). It is only when the stems are cut that the citrus aroma can be fully appreciated. This is matched by a clean, intense lemon flavour which has the citrus tang but none of the acidity associated with lemon or grapefruit. Lemon rind may be suggested as a substitute, but it lacks the intensity and liveliness of fresh lemon grass.

Lemon grass can be added to curries, soups and casseroles, particularly those made with chicken and seafood. Only the bottom 7.5 cm/3 inch of the stem is edible and this part can be finely chopped or thinly sliced. Alternatively, the entire stem can be bruised, added to a dish to flavour it and then discarded before serving. Use fresh lemon grass to make energizing herb tea and try it in other non-alcoholic beverages. Dried or powdered it gives a kick to curries and zip to stews and soups, especially when combined with garlic, chillies and coriander. Perk up your tired spirits with lemon grass oil based perfumes, soap and creams. Early Arab perfumes used lemon grass mixed with sesame and cotton oil for fragrance. Ancient Greeks and Romans also used lemon grass for its scent and healing properties.

There are two varieties of lemon grass: East Indian lemon grass (Cochin or Malabar grass), native to India and West Indian lemon grass, native to south India and Ceylon. In Chinese folk medicine lemon grass has been used to cure everything from rheumatic attack to headaches and stomach aches. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties, reduces pimples and acne, lowers blood pressure, encourages detoxification, stimulates digestion, improves blood circulation. In the Caribbean, they call it sweet rush or fever grass and use it to cure colds and fevers. Filipinos have concocted a commercial beverage by combining lemon grass juice and muscovado sugar.

Lemon grass oil

Lemon grass oil has an earthy lemony sweet smell. It is dark yellow to amber and reddish in colour. It blends well with orange and other citrus oils. You can also combine it with sage oil for a lovely scent and a healing effect. Its citrus aroma also has cleansing effects, kick starting the brain and encouraging fresh ideas. Lemon grass oil tones sagging tissue and improves muscle tone. Add a few drops of it in shampoo to add luster to dull damaged hair. Lemon grass is one of the few scents that help suppress appetite. So if you tend to eat out of loneliness, boredom or sheer compulsion, enjoy a lemon grass based dish or inhale some lemon grass oil and you will feel full quicker.

 

Revolution In Metal Cutting Industry

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), a Marketing and Refining Oil major of Govt. of India has painstakingly studied the needs of industrial sector who carryout the metal cutting and brazing operations and eventually came up with an innovative product - Bharat Metal Cutting Gas (BMCG), an ideal substitute for Acetylene. BMCG, in a short while, has gained tremendous popularity amongst the industrial users primarily because of its performance efficiency and low cost of operations as against conventional Acetylene. The savings vis-à-vis LPG are of the order of 40 to 45%. Besides, BMCG is safe and operator friendly – providing increased cutting speed, smooth surface finish etc. The successful performance of BMCG, on a variety of parameters, has been approved by authorized agencies such as Research & Development Standards Organization (RDSO), Welding Research Institute of India (WRI) Trichy, Naval Materials Research Laboratory, Ambernath Thane.

BMCG is already the preferred choice of major users such as SAIL, BHEL, BEML, Indian Railways, Steel Plants, Power plants, Cochin & Hindustan Ship Yards, Metro Rail, L&T, Godrej & Boyce, Jindal Singareni Colleries etc. During the first year of its presence in the market, BMCG has recorded approx. a volume of 1000 MTs – obviously replacing acetylene in the market with the help of its distributor network.

With such a high volume already recorded in the first one year of its full operation, BMCG is poised to create further records in metal cutting industry in India. Marketed in cylinder of 19.0, 35.0 & 47.5 kg through out the country with the help of 46 LPG bottling plants which are undertaking filling of BMCG for distribution to industrial customers.

1. Tie-up with Oxygen manufacturers / suppliers. Also a tie-up with machine manufacturers / suppliers for cutting Torches etc..

2. Appointment of exclusive distributors for BMCG in potential markets to exploit the organized / un-organized sectors & incentivise them.

3. Subsidizing, wherever necessary, initial costs of changeover based on business volumes

4. Identify suitable manpower & position them in Territories / Regions exclusively for BMCG. Strengthen the set-up in Hqrs.

5. Advertising support – in the form of pamphlets, product brochures write-ups for industrial magazines, Audio-Visuals etc.

6. Product / Additive security

7. To capture new business, conduct periodic seminars / meetings with industrial customers / Govt. & other bodies

8. Allocation of capital / revenue budgets to undertake implementation of the plans

Key Features :

  • Achieves flame temp, around 3000 degree C.
  • High penetration
  • Good Cutting speed
  • Cuts metals of higher thickness effectively
  • Smooth cutting surface and reduction in slag formation
  • Clean, narrow Kerfs
  • Low possibility of backfire or flashback
  • Low handling and maintenance cost per cylinder
  • No sooty flame
  • Low switch over cost from Acetylene to BMCG

Economy like never before :

BMCG offers unmatched economy and is approximately 30-40% cheaper on overall cutting cost as compared to Acetylene.

The safe metal cutting gas :

BMCG is operator-friendly and safer than Acetylene. BMCG is non-toxic and has low backfire tendency. In case of leak, BMCG can be detected easily because of its unique pungent smell.