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Saturday, August 31, 2019

Impact of Computers in Todays Society

Computer, as the term is most commonly used, refers to the digital computer, an electronic device that makes lengthy or complicated calculations at high speeds and (except for certain small models) is also able to make decisions based on logic. A less common type of computer is the analog computer. A digital computer forms the core of a data processing system. Data processing is, basically, the organization of information into a useful form by such processes as comparing, selecting, and arranging. A very simple example of data processing is alphabetizing a list of names. Electronic data processing, or EDP, is data processing performed by a computer. Computers vary greatly in the speed at which they can perform calculations and in their ability to handle complicated tasks. Computers also vary greatly in size—from arrays of equipment occupying a large room to a slice of silicon smaller than a postage stamp. In general, small computers are referred to as microcomputers; large computers, as mainframes; and computers of intermediate size, as minicomputers. General-purpose microcomputers are commonly called personal computers. The computer ranks as one of the major technological developments of the 20th century. Beginning about 1950, it took the computer less than two decades to revolutionize the methods of business, industry, and government; to greatly advance work in the sciences; and to find wide application in such diverse fields as accounting, education, medicine, and publishing. Today, the computer industry—which includes the manufacturing of computers, the designing and marketing of computer programs, and the providing of computer-related services—is among the most important in the world. History Early forerunners of the computer were the abacus, developed in the ancient times in the Far East, and an adding machine invented in 1641 by Blaise Pascal of France. The principle of the punched card was developed about 1801 by Joseph Marie Jacquard, also of France. His cards were used to control the pattern produced in textiles by a loom. All of the basic principles of the modern digital computer—input and output devices, storage and arithmetic units, and the sequencing of instructions—were conceived in the 1820’s and 1830’s by Charles Babbage, an English mathematician. He completed a small computer, called a difference engine, in 1822. It consisted primarily of gears and levers and was similar to a modern mechanical desk calculator. Impact and use of computers A computer is a high-speed mathematician, file clerk, and a typist. It can perform many thousands of times more rapidly than human without error. Its many uses grow out of these characteristics. Computers are used in business to do many routine and time-consuming jobs, such as handling billing, payrolls, and inventory. Computers can be used in making forecasts of future sales figures or economic conditions. In many organizations, computers are used as word processors, simplifying the production of reports, letters, and other documents. Some organizations routinely transmit memos and other messages by means of computer linkups, a form of communication known as electronic mail. Reporters, salespeople, and other workers can produce their written work on portable computers and then transmit the work to an office via telephone lines. In the school, computers are used in many classrooms to assist teachers in instructing students. Computers are used in a variety of ways, from supplying simple drills to providing complex simulations of such processes as conducting a scientific experiments or managing a large company. In such sciences as physics, chemistry, and psychology, computers are used to monitor experiments and organize the results so that they can be interpreted more easily. In astronomy, computers perform the complicated alculations necessary for determining the orbits and relative positions of various heavenly bodies. In engineering, computers are used to help produce and evaluate the design of new products. Another use of computers is to control industrial processes. This form of control, a type of automation, has been applied to such processes as machining, oil refining, and the manufacture of chemicals. Another industrial use is to control robots used in assembly operations. Computers are essential for a variety of functions performed by government agencies. For example, computers are used by the National Weather Services for analyzing large amounts of weather data to make weather forecasts; by the Federal Aviation Administration for operating the complex equipment needed to direct air traffic; by the Internal Revenue Service for handling tax records; by the Census Bureau for compiling statistical data on the country’s population; and by the military for communication, defense, and weapons systems. In the home, computers are used for a number of purposes. A popular used of home computers is for playing video games. They are also used to gain access by telephone hook-up to networks providing a variety of information and communication services. In some homes, computers are used for word processing and for maintaining household records. It is also known to surf the web and collect various information off of the internet. Many people work off of a computer for a living. A computer can perform a virtually unlimited number of calculations, one after another, without further action on the part of the person using it. It is this ability that sets a computer apart from an ordinary calculating machine, which requires control by a human operator for each calculation. Although the computer itself deals only with numbers, it can work with information that was not originally in numerical form if that information lends itself to mathematical and logical analysis. It does so by first converting the information into numbers; it then performs calculations with the numbers and converts the result into a usable form. Although computer does not think, it does make decisions. Each decision is based on a logical pattern previously stored—by a human being—in the computer. It makes a decision by following instructions such as â€Å"If the number you are reading is 10 or less, proceed to the next step. If it is greater than 10, skip the next step. † In making decisions, the computer uses the same processes as those described in the article LOGIC.

Original Marriage Polygamy Essay

Once referred to as the â€Å"original marriage† Polygamy is now an alternative lifestyle lived by many, but is it right? There are multiple countries around the world that believe that this is in fact an applicable way of living. The Origins of polygamy are extremely vast and are practiced all over the world. However, in the United States it is illegal, yet there are many knowing individuals who still partake in this style of living. It is reported that â€Å"there are 40,000 people living in polygamous families or communities across the Western region of the U. S† (Scharnberg &Brachear, 2006). Should these people be prosecuted? Or are we as Americans pre judging a lifestyle that we know nothing about? In this paper, I will discuss what polygamy is, the controversies surrounding polygamy in the United States, and how polygamy emerged and extended through various cultures and religions globally. In addition, I will further explain if it is still practiced, and if so, is it accepted and acknowledged by their creed. Polygamy consists of three forms; they are polygyny, polyandry, and group marriage. Polygyny is the practice of having more than one wife at the same time. This was the original name for polygamy during the ninetieth century, it later became known as polygamy. The second form is polyandry which is the act of having many husbands at more than one time. Of the three, this practice is rare; it was traditionally practiced among Tibetans in Nepal and parts of China. The final form is group marriage (also referred to as circle marriage) this is the act of multiple women and men forming a single family. All members of the marriage share parental duties of any children they may have or will be created within their circle. Many practitioners feel that they are misunderstood and misjudged and feel that a monogamous relationship is ultimately impossible to maintain and that polygamy is a culture that is honest and upfront with each other. Amy Kaufman believes that â€Å"The most prevalent objection to polygamy is that it demeans women†. (Kaufman, 2005) It is also argued to be another form of slavery where children are at risk every day because in many cases they are conditioned to embrace a life of servitude. In any event, Polygamy still exists and is practiced around the world. All though there aren’t many cases surrounding polygamy it is a severely controversial topic. In the United States it is difficult to prove that polygamy is of existence. Even though polygamy is considered a crime, Individuals are rarely charged because it is extremely difficult to encourage polygamist or ex polygamist to come forth. Many of them are scared of being barred from their community or even prosecuted for admitting that they’ve partaken in polygamy. Unfortunately, without any choices of their own, children are born in to polygamy and the mental damaged is already done. They see nothing wrong with underage marriage, pregnancy and incest. There are several controversies surrounding this topic one of which is organized under aged marriages. In the case of the State of Utah vs. Holm’s Suzie Stubbs was married to her husband Rodney H. Holm in 1986. Holms a member of the fundamentalist church of Jesus Christ of latter day saints participated in a marriage ceremony (while still married to his first wife) with 16-year old Ruth Stubbs. Ruth claimed that she was forced into marrying her sister’s husband. Suzie Stubbs was later arrested; all though she wasn’t charged for polygamy she was charged with abetting bigamy and illegal sex. One of the largest custody cases in the United States history was the Texas polygamist custody case. It initiated with a 16-year old girl repeatedly calling an abuse hotline, claiming to be beaten and forced to become a â€Å"spiritual wife† to an adult man. Acting on her calls Texas Child welfare services removed all 439 (ranging in ages from infants to teenagers, and teenage mothers) children from the Yearning for Zion Ranch. The children were placed in foster care until the state Supreme Court ruled. It was later detected that the phone calls were fake. The children were later returned to the ranch. Arguably one of the most controversial polygamy cases in the United States was Warren Jeff’s. Warren Jeff was the president of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of latter day saints (FLDS) from 2002- 2007. Separating themselves from mainstream Mormonism, the FLDS group decided to continue monogamy since Utah denounced Polygamy in 1890. They began building residential structures in El Dorado, Texas, Colorado City and Arizona. Unlike Islamic belief, In Africa women are not given the authority to decide whether they’re husbands can have multiple wives. In Africa, polygamy is used to show a man’s wealth and it is also utilized to display a man’s virility and need for sexual satisfaction. Men can also accumulate wives as a result through inheritance. In the unfortunate event of a husband’s passing his brother would take over his household which includes his wife. In instances where there are multiple wives, they would be distributed among the remaining brothers. There is a lot of resentment between the wives. With hopes to eliminate one another many of the wives performed witch craft on each other. The children are put against each other, and in some severe cases, are encouraged to kill their father with the hopes of inheriting his wealth and status. In ancient India, Polygamy was mainly among warrior’s castes and rich merchants, while the sages and seers were strictly monogamous or completely celibate. Although it was never a popular practice in ancient India, It was accepted for the procreation and continuation of family lineage. Polygamy in ancient India was considered a matter of personal choice. Several Hindu gods were often depicted as polygamous. It was noted that lord Krishna had 16,108 wives. It was tradition that the women in Hinduism never be left alone with males. Similar to African polygamy, in the event of her husband’s death she must marry her husband’s brother. The Hindu law books later made provisions on polygamy. Present day Hindus consider both polygamy and polyandry archaic and inadequate and no longer practice the belief. In conclusion, whether your views on polygamy are positive or negative, it appears to be a lifestyle that will always exist. Polygamy is a culture that is practiced globally. Initially the reasoning was solely for procreation. It has later become a religious tenet, and a matter of choice. It is arguably compared and associated with gay and lesbian marriage rights. Many polygamists feel that they are being stripped from their right to live freely. However if â€Å"living freely† involves sexual assaulting minors, and secluding their young from civilization, then maybe polygamy should stay illegal in the United States.

Friday, August 30, 2019

Brownies

Brownies became popular across America beginning in the sass. Today, a search in the internet can discover over 100,000 brownie recipes. The variations seem endless, containing everything from candy to coffee beans (Blitz, 2014). As a new variation, the company presents a new taste of brownies having Morning Leafier or better known as Malagasy as the flavor because of its growing popularity and relevance. Malagasy is a popular backyard plant in the Philippines.It is once known as a poor man's vegetable, but is now garnering international attention as a â€Å"superegos† of miracle tree† with its proven nutritional value and many uses (Gasman, 2013). This product intends to offer people a healthy lifestyle featuring the extra benefits and nutritional values of the said plant, for this product will be presented as a food supplement to children, teenagers and adults. Studies show that the Malagasy plant is widely used as herbal medicine for a number of illness and other prac tical uses.Malagasy is known as a very nutritious plant, where it is used to combat malnutrition in third world countries especially for infants and mothers, and also as having antimicrobial, antibacterial, anti fungal repertories (AN & Part, 2003). These studies prove the effectiveness of the plant and its great help to people's health that is why this plant was chosen as the new flavor of the brownies. Nowadays, people are looking for differences and distinctions between products and so, companies are challenged in developing new products for people.This product is a solution to people who needs food supplements, but do not want to take the usual medication like in the forms of capsules, syrups, etc. This company is working to offer food supplements in the form of Malagasy brownies. People, who will avail the said product, will get to have the all-time favorite dessert, the brownies plus take pleasure in and have the benefits of the very nutritious Malagasy plant. Thus, the Mornin g Leafier or Malagasy plant is chosen as the raw material of the product which is food supplements in the form of brownies.This product will be offered to suit the needs of people who are in need of help to their health featuring the nutritional values and many benefits of Malagasy. REFERENCES Blitz, l. (25 June 2014). Failed Cake to Family Favorite: Brownie History. Retrieved from http://www. Prepares. Org/Assets/files/Brownie_Recipe_Handout. PDF. Gasman, M. (21 November 2013). Malagasy (Morning)-the World's â€Å"Superegos†. Retrieved from http://www. Classicist. Com/Malagasy-morning-worlds-superegos/. AN, K. & Part, L. (2003). Malagasy Uses, Health Benefits, Side Effects, Preparation.Retrieved from http://www. Indistinguishable. Com/articles/Malagasy. HTML. BUSINESS DESCRIPTION The main purpose of the business is to provide a healthy lifestyle and living in the present generation specifically to children with ages 7-12, teenagers 13-19 and adults tit ages 20 and above. The company will provide food supplements in the form of Morning Leafier or Malagasy brownies as the products. These brownies will offer the unique benefits and nutritional values of Malagasy leaves and plant to health.To be able to produce the product, the company will be offering a partnership to the Malagasy Plantation in Apace, Nag City. This plantation will provide the Malagasy plant as the main ingredient or raw material of the brownies as food supplements. The partnership will be having 70% of the revenues for our company and the engaging 30% for the Malagasy Plantation. The Cacao Farm and Industries will also be another supplier for our company. The company will be management. Under this, there will be subgroups such as the Financial, Operational and Human Resources departments.The Malagasy Plantation will be the head for the Operational department and under them is the Cacao Farm and Industries together with the other suppliers. Job Descriptions: General Manager The general ma nager conducts and administers the overall undertaking in the business. The general manager will asks for the reports and updates from the line managers regarding the business dealings delegated to each of them. Checking the performance of all the managers is also a duty of the general manager.The general manager will also help draw ideas and thoughts together with the other managers to come up with a rational, agreed result in order to achieve the company's objectives. Financial Manager The financial manager is in charge with the overall financial affairs of the business. He identifies costs relating to the business. He keeps the book of accounts and monthly reports. He is also in charge in the preparation of the financial statement. Productions and Operations Manager The productions and operations manager has the task of buying the needed ingredients for the production of the products.He is also commissioned to make an inventory system. He is involved with the planning, coordinati on and control of manufacturing processes. He ensures that goods and services are produced efficiently and that the correct amount is produced at the right cost and level of quality. Sales and Marketing Manager The sales manager has the task of monitoring the sales. He is also tasked with the costs needed in making long-term plans for the business. He furthermore studies and analyses the changes in the market trend and come up with appropriate innovations in the product that will suit customer's taste and preferences.The sales manager studies and reports the supply and demand trends in the business. The marketing manager is in charge of formulating strategies to improve public relations. He also makes a wide campaign via calling cards, referrals of the baked products to make the business recognized. He is also asks for comments, makes surveys from customers and develops strategies to meet their expectations. Human Resources Manager Human resources manager develops, advises on and im plements policies relating to the effective use of personnel within an organization.His aim is to ensure that the organization employs the right balance of staff in terms of skills and experience, and that training and development opportunities are available to employees to enhance their performance and achieve the employer's business aims. In the present times, the company will Just be proposing the Malagasy brownies, but will not be limited to it in the near future. The company will be extending their reduces in terms of new flavors for the brownies or new forms of the Malagasy food supplements.Product development and innovation will be used as marketing strategies of the company depending on the sales and opinions or feedback from the people. The company will do research to give the customers their satisfaction. At the end of the year, the company is tasked to have paid the liabilities from the capital. The company must also seek to improve the lifestyles of people as its main pu rpose and must have provided positive comments and effects to people who will avail the product. OPERATIONAL PLAN The business will communicate with the customers through direct selling or house- to-house selling or person-to-person selling.The company aims to provide the customers an easy way of reaching the product. Another way to promote the product is through the use of social media such as Faceable, Twitter and other websites. Customers are free to contact the company regarding the product or send an email to our official page. The pricing strategy will be based on the materials used and each will cost 25 pesos and a box of 12 will cost 290 pesos (A 3-percent discount is offered). The product does not look like the usual brownies which shapes as square or rectangle, but will be circular in appearance or will look like cupcakes.Customers will be given the chance to avail membership worth 3,000 pesos as an initial payment and will have certain discounts and other benefits. For th ose who will avail the membership, they will have an additional two boxes of the products for one year. The company plans to a consignment for our product to different stores in Nag City particularly in terminals, cafeteria, canteens and eateries. But, the business intends o operate primarily by accepting orders from customers through mobile, e-mail and other means of communication.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Career dilemma Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Career dilemma - Essay Example Here the focus of discussion will be the ethical dilemma faced by psychologist while pursuing forensics as a career with special emphasis on their dual behavior, multiple relationships, and conflict of interests. Dual roles: A psychologist is a person that reads and understands a human mind. A forensic psychologist, however, has to perform dual functions i.e. as a therapist as well as the evaluator of the issue for legal documentation associated with a particular criminal presented at the court. The ethical dilemma associated with the dual role of a forensic psychologist is to maintain the confidentiality of the data. Acting as a therapist, a psychologist has to make sure that what ever is being told to him by the criminal should not be leaked out anywhere to any other party, and the information should only be used for legal documentation or for proving the criminal’s crime or innocence. According to Cornin (2006) an important ethical dilemma which is not concerned by the psyc hologists is the appropriate filing and use of tests when acting as a therapist. Moreover, psychologists while providing legal services, or acting as an evaluator, do not tend to evaluate the facts objectively as there exists a lack of communication and difficulty in conducting interviews with the third party. Multiple relationships: According to Moore (2011), conflicting relationships is one of the ethical dilemmas faced by forensic psychologists while practicing their job. These conflicting relationships occur in case a therapist develops some emotional feelings with any of his patients and might not be willing to treat patients in some other hospitals. However, this occurs when the therapists prefers to treat patients they know personally, as it requires less counseling as compared to treating the person they don’t know. In addition to this, another type of conflicting relationship occurs between the attorney and a psychologist. He may be forced to provide testimony and de clare the case of a particular person that is coherent with the success of a particular case in the court. This gives rise to the development of adverse and conflicting relationship of psychologists with the parties they deal on daily basis. According to Weinberger and Sreenivasan (1994), sometimes in prison, forensic psychologists are forced to do the tasks that are not related to their area of expertise. In case a prison is less staffed and they need to have a staff for security, it is quite possible that forensic psychologists are asked to perform such duties, which not only lead to the conflicting roles but also to the development of conflicting relationships with the prison staff. Conflict of interests: Forensic psychologist often confront with a conflict of interest. According to a research it is pointed out that forensic psychologists are often reluctant to treat their immediate relatives because their interests do not coincide. They know very well the pros and cons of antici pated therapist-patient relationship, which is why they feel reluctant in treating their professional and personal contacts. Similarly another important thing being pointed out is that while performing dual roles, often they tend to maintain the confidentiality so that the rights of the patients are not violated, leading to the conflicting interests between a therapist (or evaluator) and a patient. Conclusion: To

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Project management ip 4 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Project management ip 4 - Essay Example Every project should be easily accessible, this is because investors are very busy people. Therefore, they may not want to waste a lot of time. In connection to this, it is advisable that before a company decides they best place to locate a project, they have to make sure that it can easily be accessible (Van de Vaar, 2012). For any kind of project to begin, all the materials should be available and they cost known. This is because investors like knowing a rough estimate of the project. In connection to this, it is necessary that before the meeting all the estimated costs of the materials should have been known (Alonso, 2009). Some projects needs a lot of money for them to be completed. In regards to this, it is not easy estimating how much a project will cost. However, it is recommended that the project team should be able to put a rough estimate of the project. Since the meeting is coming earlier than planned, the project team members can look at some of the projects which are similar to the one they are intending to put up so as to have a rough estimate of the project (Brent, 2012). One of the factors that leads to successful completion of a project is human resource. The project team should ensure that they have identified various personnel who will work on the project. This is because the senior executives would like to know whether the project will be finished on time or not (Alonso, 2009). In opportunity analysis, the total cost of the project is a very important factor to be given priority over the rest of the other factors. As a result, much of the resources should diverted towards knowing how much the project will cost. While, the resources allocated for identifying the location of the project can be minimized (Brent, 2012). Allocating more resources towards estimating the cost of the project will affect many things. For example,

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Biology - Infectious Diseases Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Biology - Infectious Diseases - Research Paper Example In the case of infections, adaptive immunity has a greater role to play. Each foreign organism displays an antigen or multiple antigens that are recognized by the antibodies produced in our body. This recognition allows targeted action and removal of the infectious particles. If the infection is mild, our bodies are easily able to remove it. If however the infection is severe or if the symptoms are dangerous, external medication may become necessary. Also vaccination is important in order to stop the infections from occurring in the first place. Since infectious diseases are a leading cause of mortality, causing about ten percent of all deaths every year, it is important to study then closely and find a cure against them. Initially, there was a theory of spontaneous generation which stated that microorganisms were created out of lifeless matter such as meat broth. There were many scientists who played a key role in refuting the idea but the foremost were Robert Koch and Louis Pasteur . Pasteur devised a series of experiments with beef broth to prove that only when exposed to open air was the broth contaminated. He then proposed his germ theory according to which diseases were caused by microorganisms; however his attempts to prove his theory were unsuccessful. His work was carried forward by Koch who cultivated anthrax virus from a diseased organism and inserted it into a healthy one, which develops a disease (Burnet and White). The virus was isolated again and observed in the lab, confirming the germ theory proposed by Pasteur. A major breakthrough in the field was achieved by Edward Jenner when the first vaccine was developed. During the twentieth century there was a deadly outbreak of small pox that had a very high mortality rate. The victims’ bodies got covered in scabs and blisters that were full of the pox virus. The virus claimed thousands of lives all across the globe. Edward Jenner noticed two things related to the small pox infection. First, tha t the people who survived the onset of small pox did not contact the disease again and secondly the milkmaids rarely got affected by the disease. The milkmaids displayed signs of infection of the cowpox virus which was a milder version of the small pox. Jenner combined these observations and discovered that immunity against the small pox virus could be achieved if the people are injected with the cow pox variola virus. Within a small span of time large scale manufacturing of the variola virus started and worldwide campaigns struggled to spread the vaccine throughout the globe. Finally the efforts paid off and the small pox virus was eradicated from the world (Magner). Since then various vaccines have been developed for different infectious diseases, like polio, cholera, mumps, rubella and many others. These vaccines may be in many forms A live attenuated form of the virus which is alive but weak and therefore a lower chance of causing a disease Dead strains of the virus Toxoid vacci nes which target the toxins produced by the microorganism Viral like particles, generated through genetic engineering that will trigger an immune response without causing a disease. These experiments and incidences allowed the scientists to learn a great deal about the infectious diseases and to develop cures against them. With the advent of modern technology, it is now easier to work on microorganisms. However a new kind of challenge is faced by the scientists around the world. The rapidly evolving microorganisms like HCV and

Monday, August 26, 2019

Social Security research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Social Security research - Essay Example It was Republican senator Marco Rubio who said that â€Å"But heres what I would tell people of my generation. I turn 40 this year. There isnt going to be a Social Security. There isnt going to be a Medicare when you retire. Forget about what your benefit is going to look like. There isnt going to be one if we dont make some reforms to save that program now.† It is this understanding that has led many leaders to believe that in order to survive, social security must be turned into an optional program for it members rather than mandatory. This case study shall be written in terms of someone who has had previous experience with the inner working of social security, yet through provide suggested solutions to the problem based upon the feelings, understanding, and needs of the members of the system. It shall thoroughly present the situation of the company and confidently describe the future of social security if changes are not made to the program immediately. Social Security is something that employed people from all walks of life look forward to collecting once they reach the mandatory age of retirement. It is like a forced savings account that everyone is forced to participate in so that they can have some sort of financial nest egg once they become too old to work. That is the main concept behind the existence of Social Security. Although the system had a very premise for being brought into existence by then President Roosevelt, the system was mishandled and its programs ended up being mismanaged over an extended period of time. This led to the financial disarray and incapacity of the system to truly answer to the needs for which it was first created. However, that is not to say that the problems in the system cannot be fixed. But the solutions may be difficult to implement so other options to social security should be looked into

Sunday, August 25, 2019

International business paper exam Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

International business paper exam - Essay Example It is a capitalist world-economy because the accumulation of private capital, through exploitation in production and sale for profit in a market, is its driving force; it is "a system that operates on the primacy of the endless accumulation of capital via the eventual commodification of everything" (Wallerstein, 1998). A polity is a "system of creating value through the collective conferral of authority" (Meyer, 1980). Nation-states are, of course, the invention of early modern times, institutions produced by the rise of capitalism. Capitalism required a jettisoning of the feudal regime with its patchwork of autonomous sovereignty. Difference was absorbed into the homogeneity of the nation-state, producing a unified legal code that protected private property and the investment of the capitalist and allowed for the circulation of a single currency. This economic act was, of course, represented as the creation of a harmonious community of people with a common language and a coherent culture and worldview. World culture theory is a label for a particular interpretation of globalization that focuses on the way in which participants in the process become conscious of and give meaning to living in the world as a single place. In this account, globalization "refers both to the compression of the world and the intensification of consciousness of the world as a whole"; in other words, it covers the acceleration in concrete global interdependence and in consciousness of the global whole (Robertson, 1992). From economic point of view globalization theories are devided into two theories: neoclassical and Marxist. Reassessing economic theories of globalization. Attention to the economic processes that shape positionality alters our ideas about the spatial dynamics of globalization. Much of the received wisdom of how markets work, both in neoclassical and Marxist economic theory was developed under the assumption that economies have no spatial extent. This received wisdom can be questioned, however, because the production of positionality challenges some key theoretical claims emanating from economics: the stability of market-based equilibria, the possibility of regional economic equality, the social benefits of free trade or land markets, the likelihood that rational choices lead to expected outcomes, the stability of class alliances, and the theory of value (Harvey 1982; Sheppard and Barnes 1990). It follows that the contrasting grand narratives about globalization associated with these two economic theories, of globalization as modernization and globalization as polarization, respectively, are also questionable. The global capitalist economy is better conceived of as an out- of -equilibrium, complex and contested spatiotemporal system whose long-term outcomes are unknowable. 2. Differences in national business systems Initially differences in national business systems (NBS) could be explained by institutional differences. In order to be effective, business firms would not only have to behave rationally toward the market and be technologically efficient as organizations, they would simultaneously have to behave effectively toward the institutional context in which they operated. Thus, if the different European states constitute different formations of institutions, business firms will in effect organize differently

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Kao Corporation Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Kao Corporation - Case Study Example The older women consider the ease of use of diapers as a means of escape for the young mothers from working hard for their children (Kao Corporation 4). They consider the use of old clothes worn by the mothers as cloth diapers as a method of bonding between the mothers and the babies (Kao Corporation 3). This is especially true of the rural areas where, due to the joint family system, the older generation of women are actively involved in decision making concerning the younger couples (Kao Corporation 4). The fathers, on the other hand, are not involved with baby care as much as the ladies (Kao Corporation 4). Most of the diaper use is limited to the big metropolitan areas of Japan, like Tokyo (Kao Corporation 4); however, even in such markets, only fifteen percent of the potential households use disposable diapers (Kao Corporation 4). Other reasons of decreased use include the low quality of the diapers which can cause rash, high prices, cumbersome packaging requiring a lot of stora ge space, and diaper misfits with regard to baby size (Kao Corporation 5). When P & G launched their diaper brand, Pampers, in Japan in 1977, they faced several challenges and problems in marketing and sales, although still securing the majority of the market shares for diapers (Kao Corporation 1). The initial product quality of the Pampers was low, as they leaked and were not absorbent enough (Kao Corporation 5). This resulted in skin rash to the babies (Kao Corporation 5). Another reason for leaking was the inappropriate size of the diapers as compared to baby size, the size of the Pampers being often larger than was suitable, so that it was unable to fit, and so leaked (Kao

Friday, August 23, 2019

Turkey political system Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Turkey political system - Term Paper Example One of the non-Muslim communities is the Greek community. Another community is the Armenian community. A third community is the Jewish community. Recognition of these communities is in line with Turkey’s compliance with the Lausanne Treaty. The Turkey nation includes other homogenous communities. The community includes the 15 million member Kurdish community. Furthermore, the other Turkish groups included immigrant communities. One of the communities is the Circassian community. A second community is the Albanian community. A third community is the Bosnian community. Georgia is another community. Moreover, the Turkish community is ruled by several political parties. One of the parties is the Justice and Development Party (AKP). The Islamic AKP party is a conservative party that espouses democratic ideals. The AKP government’s cultural and societal policies implements democratic religious concepts. Mustaf Kemal â€Å"Ataturk† and his Turkey-based concepts (Ataturk Movement) Mustafa Kemal or Ataturk is recognized as one of Turkey’s well known leaders. He founded the Republic of Turkey (Crossland, 1). Ataturk did not espouse the philosophical theories of Karl Marx. He did not propagate the political theories of Lenin. In fact, Ataturk did not directly espouse any philosophical theories. He never borrowed any philosopher’s theories. Moreover, Ataturk did not even create his own unique philosophies. Ataturk was more of a manager than a thinker. Ataturk was more of a pragmatist. Further, Ataturk did not imitate some of the Brazil government leaders’ positivism philosophies. A pragmatist is a person who decides on a case to case basis, not based on standard policies, theories, philosophies or procedures. Ataturk was a down to earth or practical leader. Ataturk... Turkey today is embroiled in a territorial dispute with the neighboring Cyprus government. The issue arose between the Greek government leaders and Turkey’s AKP government leaders, in terms of their Eastern Mediterranean hydrocarbon mining. The Greece government ordered the establishment of an exclusive economic zone. Turkey’s AKP government felt the establishment of the zone was economically disadvantageous to the Turkish nation. Mining quarrel focused on the drilling of oil in the area. The democracy will produce de-bureaucratization and de-securitization of the Greek and other foreign issues. Further, Turkey’s AKP government prioritized creating cooperation and camaraderie with its Muslim neighbors. Turkey contributed its share to the resolution of the Palestinian-Israeli crisis. Turkey’s President Sezer visited Damascus to create close ties with its neighbors. The AKP government’s beneficial relations with Syria irked the United States.

Increasing or Restricting Andragogy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Increasing or Restricting Andragogy - Essay Example This paper outlines that we have to take into account both the objective semantics of the term as well as try and locate it within a specific twentieth century educational context. The term ‘adult education’ is a comparatively new one, coined much after it was actually in practice. It is a result of many years of evolutions, and its meaning, even now is far from simple and monolithic. Even as early as in 1927, Hall-Quest conceded the difficulties in defining the term. One of the biggest problems related to the definition of ‘adult education’ is, whether it refers to a set of methodologies by which ‘adults’ can be taught, or is it a holistic term that includes the general endeavor of educating adults in a specific way as well as a detailed study of government adaptation and subsequent implementation of policies that target the adults specifically as the subject of educational instruction. Theorists like Alan Rogers have defined adult education as a process ‘whereby anyone over 16 (or whatever) are treated as adults – capable, experienced, responsible and balanced people’. Such a definition has two major problems; first ‘adult education’ becomes synonymous with ‘andragogy’ thus affecting the semantic rigor of the term.  

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Comparision between a dolls house and a glass menegarie Essay Example for Free

Comparision between a dolls house and a glass menegarie Essay Nora Helmer in â€Å"A Doll’s House† and Amanda Wingfield in â€Å"The Glass Menagerie†, are both iconic figures that play an important role in their respective plays. These characters are similar as well as different in comparison. Both Nora and Amanda are seen as a very good mother. They also are not in touch with the reality. The difference between Nora and Amanda is that Nora wanted the freedom from her husband, whereas on the other hand, Amanda felt helpless after she lost her husband. Another difference between Amanda and Nora is that Amanda does not really think about herself that much, whereas, Nora is very obsessed with herself. It is seen that Nora and Amanda are both, loving mothers. In â€Å"A Doll’s House†, this is seen when Nora plays with her kids and talks in a child like manner with them. It is also seen when she think about the future and then says, â€Å"No, it’s quite impossible†. She says this after Krogstad had left, and after she had a conversation with Anne-Marie. Amanda is seen as a good and a loving mother when she thinks about the future for her daughter Laura. She tells Tom to find a good gentlemen for her, and tries to make a better future for them. Amanda has faith that some gentleman might come for Laura, which shows the confidence she has in her daughter. Amanda as well as Nora lives in a world where they are not really in touch with reality. For Amanda, when situations become bad, she recalls the days of her youth when she lived at Blue Mountain and had seventeen gentlemen callers in one Sunday afternoon. Indeed, this story has been told so often that it is no longer an illusion and instead has become a reality. She likewise indulges in playful games so as to escape the drudgery of everyday living. She tells Laura, You be the lady this time and Ill be the darky. She refuses to acknowledge that Laura is crippled and instead refers to her as having only a slight physical defect. She refuses to accept the fact that Tom is quite different from her and that he, like his father, will someday leave in search of adventures. This is seen when Tom views his life with his family and at the warehouse as a kind of coffin—cramped, suffocating, and morbid—in which he is unfairly confined. And finally, Amanda lives perpetually in the world of the gentlemen callers who will appear any day for Laura. In â€Å"A Doll’s House†, Nora thought that everything will work out the way she has planned. Nora lives in a very unrealistic world, where she behaves like a doll, and does all the unrealistic things. This is seen when she does not take her life seriously, like forging a signature, which in turn could lead to a lot of problems. In â€Å"A Doll’s House†, in the end, we see that Nora leaves behind her house, her husband as well as her children, whom she loved a lot. This means that she is very selfish and only thinks about herself. According to Nora, she will be who she is if she leaves Torvald. She thinks that being with him, she is a completely different person, from reality. This is seen at the end, when Torvald gets to know the truth Whereas, on the other hand, it is completely opposite in â€Å"A Glass Menagerie† with Amanda. After she lost her husband, she felt completely helpless and did not know how to figure things out. In â€Å"A Doll’s House†, Nora is seen very self-obsessed, whereas, on the other hand, in â€Å"A Glass Menagerie†, Amanda does not really care about herself, and is seen more concerned about her children, and about their future. Nora considers herself like the most prettiest women and keeps on obsessing about herself and thinks about her own future the most. This is also seen when both, Nora and Amanda think that they have some lovers or gentlemen. The only difference between the both of them is that Nora knew that she did not have any lover, and she just dreamt of having one. Whereas, Amanda thought there were gentlemen for her, even though, in real, there weren’t any. Thus, in both these plays, â€Å"A Doll’s House†, and â€Å"A Glass Menagerie†, Nora and Amanda have similarities as well as differences. This similarity between both of them is that both of them care about their kids, and both of them are not in touch with reality. And the difference between them is that Nora finds freedom after leaving her husband, whereas, on the other hand, Amanda kind of feels handicapped after she lost her husband. Another difference seen between Amanda and Nora is that Nora is very self-obsessed, whereas Amanda is not.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

The indian FMCG sector

The indian FMCG sector Chapter 1 1.1 Indian FMCG Sector in a nutshell: The Indian FMCG sector is the fourth largest sector in the economy with a total market size in excess of US$ 13.1 billion. It has a strong MNC presence and is characterized by a well established distribution network, intense competition between the organized and unorganized segments and low operational cost. Availability of key raw materials, cheaper labor costs and presence across the entire value chain gives India a competitive advantage. The FMCG market is set to treble from US$ 11.6 billion in 2003 to US$ 33.4 billion in 2015. Penetration level as well as per capit consumption in most product categories like jams, toothpaste, skin care, hair wash etc in India is low indicating the untapped market potential. Burgeoning Indian population, particularly the middle class and the rural segments, presents an opportunity to makers of branded products to convert consumers to branded products. Growth is also likely to come from consumer upgrading in the matured product categories. With 200 million people expected to shift to processed and packaged food by 2010, India needs around US$ 28 billion of investment in the food-processing industry. The Indian FMCG sector gives employment for three million people in downstream activities. Within the FMCG sector, the Indian food processing industry represented 6.3 per cent of GDP and accounted for 13 per cent of the countrys exports in 2003-04.A distinct feature of the FMCG industry is the presence of most global players through their subsidiaries (HLL, PG, Nestle), which ensures new product launches in the Indian market from the parents portfolio. 1.2 What is in India for FMCG: FMCG Sector is expected to grow by over 60% by 2010. That will translate into an annual growth of 10% over a 5-year period. It has been estimated that FMCG sector will rise from around Rs 56,500 crores in 2005 to Rs 92,100 crores in 2010. Hair care, household care, male grooming, female hygiene, and the chocolates and confectionery categories are estimated to be the fastest growing segments, says an HSBC report. Though the sector witnessed a slower growth in 2002-2004, it has been able to make a fine recovery since then. For example, Hindustan Unilver Limited (HUL) has shown a healthy growth in the last quarter. An estimated double-digit growth over the next few years shows that the good times are likely to continue. 1.3 Growth: With the presence of 12.2% of the world population in the villages of India, the Indian rural FMCG market is something no one can overlook. Increased focus on farm sector will boost rural incomes, hence providing better growth prospects to the FMCG companies. Better infrastructure facilities will improve their supply chain. FMCG sector is also likely to benefit from growing demand in the market. Because of the low per capita consumption for almost all the products in the country, FMCG companies have immense possibilities for growth. And if the companies are able to change the mindset of the consumers, i.e. if they are able to take the consumers to branded products and offer new generation products, they would be able to generate higher growth in the near future. It is expected that the rural income will rise in 2007, boosting purchasing power in the countryside. However, the demand in urban areas would be the key growth driver over the long term. Also, increase in the urb an population, along with increase in income levels and the availability of new categories, would help the urban areas maintain their position in terms of consumption. At present, urban India accounts for 66% of total FMCG consumption, with rural India accounting for the remaining 34%. However, rural India accounts for more than 40% consumption in major FMCG categories such as personal care, fabric care, and hot beverages. In urban areas, home and personal care category, including skin care, household care and feminine hygiene, will keep growing at relatively attractive rates. Within the foods segment, it is estimated that processed foods, bakery, and dairy are long-term growth categories in both rural and urban. 1.4 Indian Competitiveness and Comparison with the World Markets: The following factors make India a competitive player in FMCG sector: Availability of Raw Materials: Because of the diverse agro-climatic conditions in India, there is a large raw material base suitable for food processing industries. India is the largest producer of livestock, milk, sugarcane, coconut, spices and cashew and is the second largest producer of rice, wheat and fruits vegetables. India also produces caustic soda and soda ash, which are required for the production of soaps and detergents. The availability of these raw materials gives India the location advantage. Labour cost comparison: Low cost labour gives India a competitive advantage. Indias labour cost is amongst the lowest in the world, after China Indonesia. Low labour costs give the advantage of low cost of production. Many MNCs have established their plants in India to outsource for domestic and export markets. Presence across value chain: Indian companies have their presence across the value chain of FMCG sector, right from the supply of raw materials to packaged goods in the food-processing sector. This brings India a more cost competitive advantage. For example, Amul supplies milk as well as dairy products like cheese, butter, etc Chapter 2 Introduction of Hindustan Uniliver Limited (Formerly Hindustan Lever Limited) Brief History: Hindustan Unilever Limited, erstwhile Hindustan Lever Limited (also called HLL), headquartered in Mumbai, is Indias largest consumer products company, formed in 1933 as Lever Brothers India Limited. Its 41,000 employees are headed by Mr.Harish Manwani, the non-executive chairman of the board. HLL is the market leader in Indian products such as tea, soaps, detergents, as its products have become daily household name in India. The Anglo-Dutch company Unilever owns a majority stake in Hindustan Lever Limited. Recently in February 2007, the company has been renamed to Hindustan Unilever Limited to provide the optimum balance between maintaining the heritage of the Company and the future benefits and synergies of global alignment with the corporate name of Unilever. Prominent Brands: Kwality Walls ice cream, Lifebuoy, Lux, Breeze, Liril, Rexona, Hamam, Moti soaps, Lipton tea, Brooke Bond tea, Bru Coffee, Pepsodent and Close Up toothpaste and brushes, and Surf, Rin and Wheel laundry detergents, Kissan squashes and jams, Ponds talc and creams, Vaseline lotions, Fair Lovely creams, Lakmà © beauty products are some of the prominent brands of the company. Power Brands: In mid-2000 after M.S. Banga took over the reins at HLL, the company decided that it would focus on 30 odd Power Brands and carefully plan its entry into new businesses. Intuitively this made sense, instead of spreading your resources all over the place concentrate on a few brands. But what it meant was that power brands had to grow at higher rates to compensate for the loss of sales from other brands. Unfortunately, the other brands have shrunk faster vis-à  -vis the rate at which the power brands have grown. This has hit the top line of the company. The companys Vanasapti brand, Dalda, is a case in point Appointment of Doug Baille : The appointment of an expat, Doug Baillie, as the CEO of consumer heavyweight HLL is seen as an indication of the parent companys desire to hasten the process of Unileverising the Indian subsidiary, it is reliably learnt. Informed sources said Unilever was not very satisfied with the pace of harmonization of HLL vis-à  -vis other global subsidiaries. Within Unilever, it was felt that there was some opposition from HLLs senior management who wanted HLLs Indian ness to be maintained. Project Shakti: It is an initiative take by the group as a way of fulfilling its social responsibility by empowering the less privileged sections of the society we live in. The objectives of Project Shakti are to create income-generating capabilities for underprivileged rural women by providing a small-scale enterprise opportunity, and to improve rural living standards through health and hygiene awareness. Hindustan Lever Network: In February 2003 Hindustan Unilever Limited has launched a new division called Hindustan Lever Network. This division markets a wide range of Fast Moving Consumer Goods through Network Marketing. Network Marketing was pioneered in the United States of America in the 1940s by companies like Amway Corporation and operates by recruiting individuals as consultants. These consultants are paid a commission on the purchases made by them and on the purchases made by those recruited by them. Performance Trends of the company: This table has been taken from the annual report of the HUL for the year ended on 31st December 2006. This table contains key financial indicators which show the performance of the company in year 2006 and its performance trend for last 10 years. Chapter 3 LITERATURE REVIEW While green marketing came into prominence in the late 1980s and early 1990s, it was first discussed much earlier. The American Marketing Association (AMA) held the first workshop on Ecological Marketing in 1975. The proceedings of this workshop resulted in one of the first books on green marketing entitled Ecological Marketing (Henion and Kinnear 1976a). Since that time a number of other books on the topic have been published (Coddington 1993, and Ottman 1993). Green marketing incorporates a broad range of activities, including product modification, changes to the production process, packaging changes, as well as modifying advertising. (Polonsky, 1994) World-wide evidence indicates people are concerned about the environment and are changing their behavior accordingly. As a result there is a growing market for sustainable and socially responsible products and services. (Environmental protection agency -2000) Green consumerism is often discussed as a form of pro-social consumer behavi or (Wiener and Doesher, 1991). It may be viewed as a specific type of socially conscious (Anderson, 1988) or socially responsible (Antil, 1984) consumer behavior that involves an environmentalist (Schlossberg, 1991) perspective and may thus be called environmentally concerned consumption (Henion, 1976). A classic definition (Henion, 1976) describes environmentally concerned consumers. Business organizations tend to concern about environments issues due to several reasons such as environmental pressure, governmental pressure, competitive pressure, cost or profit issues (Environmental protection agency -2000) Unfortunately, a majority of people believe that green marketing refers solely to the promotion or advertising of products with environmental characteristics. (Polonsky,1994) and terms like Phosphate Free, Recyclable, Refillable, Ozone Friendly, and Environmentally Friendly are some of the things consumers most often associate with green marketing. . (Polonsky,1994) While these t erms are green marketing claims, in general green marketing is a much broader concept, one that can be applied to consumer goods, industrial goods and even services (Roberts and Bacon, 1997). Hopes for green products also have been hurt by the perception that such products are of lower quality or dont really deliver on their environmental promises. And yet the news isnt all bad, as the growing number of people willing to pay a premium for green products from organic foods to energy-efficient appliances attests. (DSouza et al. 2004)Green or Environmental Marketing consists of all activities designed to generate and facilitate any exchanges intended to satisfy human needs or wants, such that the satisfaction of these needs and wants occurs, with minimal detrimental impact on the natural environment. [Polonsky 1994b, 2] Green marketing has not lived up to the hopes and dreams of many managers and activists. Although public opinion polls consistently show that consumers would prefer to choose a green product over one that is less friendly to the environment when all other things are equal, those other things are rarely equal in the minds of consumers. (Hackett, 2000) They must always keep in mind that consumers are unlikely to compromise on traditional product attributes, such as convenience, availability, price, quality and performance. Its even more important to realize, however, that there is no single green-marketing strategy that is right for every company. (Prothero,, and McDonagh, 1992) Despite the increasing eco-awareness in contemporary market economies, it is generally recognized that there are still considerable barriers to the diffusion of more ecologically oriented consumption styles. In lay discourse as well as in much of consumer research, these barriers are usually attributed to the motivational and practical complexity of green consumption (Hackett, 2000). Increased use of Green Marketing is depending on five possible reasons. (Polonsky 1994b) Organizations perceive environmental marketing to be an opportunity that can be used to achieve its objectives [Keller 1987, Shearer 1990] Organizations believe they have a moral obligation to be more socially responsible [Davis 1992, Keller 1987,] Governmental bodies are forcing firms to become more responsible [Davis 1992]; Competitors environmental activities pressure firms to change their environmental marketing activities [Davis 1992] Cost factors associated with waste disposal, or reductions in material usage forces firms to modify their behavior [Keller, K.L. (1993] Moreover, environmentally responsible behavior usually involves difficult motivational conflicts, arising from the fundamental incompatibility of environmental protection-related collective goals and individual consumers personal or self-interested benefits and the resulting free-rider problem (Wiener and Doesher, 1991) Public policymakers will continue to develop more efficient ways to regulate waste and pollution, and scientists will continue to gather information about the environmental risks from various substances or practices. As they do, pricing structures will evolve that communicate even more accurate information to manufacturers and entrepreneurs about the true cost of commercial activities and the potential rewards from innovative solutions to environmental problems. This definition incorporates much of the traditional components of the marketing definition that is All activities designed to generate and facilitate any exchanges intended to satisfy human needs or wants (Sc hlegelmilch et al,1996). There are usually severe external constraints to green consumerism, arising from the cultural, infrastructural, political and economic circumstances in the markets and society (McIntosh, A. 1991). Both individual and industrial are becoming more concerned and aware about the natural environment. In a 1992 study of 16 countries, more than 50% of consumers in each country, other than Singapore, indicated they were concerned about the environment (Ottman 1993). A 1994 study in Australia found that 84.6% of the sample believed all individuals had a responsibility to care for the environment. A further 80% of this sample indicated that they had modified their behavior, including their purchasing behavior, due to environmental reasons (EPA-NSW 1994). Owing to the conceptual and moral complexity of ecologically responsible consumer behavior and to the perplexity of ecological information, different consumers have different conceptions of ecologically oriented consumer behavior and, thus, myriad ways of acting out their primary motivation for being green consumers (Antil, 1984). These innovations arent being pursued simply to reduce package waste. (Prothero, 1990) Food manufacturers also want to improve food preservation to enhance the taste and freshness of their products. The cost of the foods would be lower; consumers could enjoy the convenience of pre-sliced ingredients, and waste peelings (Prothero, 1990). It can be assumed that firms marketing goods with environmental characteristics will have a competitive advantage over firms marketing non-environmentally responsible alternatives. There are numerous examples of firms who have strived to become more environmentally responsible, in an attempt to better satisfy their consumer needs. (Schwepker, and Cornwell, 1991) While governmental regulation is designed to give consumers the opportunity to make better decisions or to motivate them to be more environmentally responsible, there is difficulty in establishing policies that will address all environmental issues. (Schwepker, and Cornwell, 1991). Hence, environment-friendly consumption may be characterized as highly a complex form of consumer behavior, both intellectually and morally as well as in practice. Chapter 4 Objective of the Study To study the growth in FMCG sector in India. Interpret the results using graphs and calculating various ratios to show growth in FMCG sector with regards to HUL. Research Methodology Research methodology used for calculating the growth rate in FMCG sector is trend analysis in which various important ratios have been calculated and shown by graphs and interpreted. Data collection:- Research has collected necessary information to fulfil this report through secondary data. Secondary Data: The data in this study are derived from the CAPITALINE database. Some of the data has been collected from various other company websites. Chapter 5 Ratio Analysis: Time Series Analysis Liquidity Ratios: Liquidity Ratios indicate the companys ability to meet its short-term liability. These ratios indicate the availability of liquid asset to meet short term obligations. Creditors usually check this ratio to assess the ability of firm to meet its short term obligations. Current Ratio: Current ratio is obtained by dividing Current Assets by Current Liabilities. Current ratio gives a quick understanding of the companys liquidity position but is subjected to window dressing. Current asset consists of Cash, Inventory and Debtors as major items. Though Inventory and Debtors are considered liquid asset, the company may find itself unable to collect debt at right time and convert inventory into cash when it has to pay its creditors. Hence this ratio alone can not provide a clear picture of firms liquidity position. Liquid Ratio: Liquid ratio is a better measure of Liquidity because inventory, which might not get converted into cash when required to do so, is taken out of the current asset for calculating this ratio. Absolute Cash Ratio: It is the best measure of the liquidity since only cash and near cash items are taken for calculating this ratio. Debtors and Inventory are taken out of the Current Asset and thus left part of current asset give a better idea of liquidity of the firm. Working Capital: It is net current asset that a company has to have in order to smoothly run its day to day operation.Net Current Asset is difference between CA and CL. It also indicates how the firm is financing its assets. For example if a company has CL more than CA, i.e. Negative Working Capital, it implies that the company is financing its long term asset from short term funds. Generally CL does not carry any cost and hence it increases the profitability of the firm. Working Capital Days: Working capital days indicate the time taken in completion of the operating cycle. It is a measure of firms policy of collecting debt, making payment to creditors and average inventory holding period. The goods are purchased either in cash or on credit, then it remains with the firm as inventory for some days, then it is sold and debtors are created, then the cash is collected from debtors. So, WCD is Debtors Days + Inventory Days- Creditor Days. Debtors Days: Time taken to convert debtor into cash. It indicates how efficiently the firm is collecting its debt . Creditor Days: It indicates how fast the firm is paying back to its creditors. Inventory Days: How efficiently the firm converts its inventory into debtors, i.e. how efficient the sales are. It also indicates for how long (on an average) goods are stocked. Analysis of Liquidity Ratios: Current ratio of HUL has been less than 1 for all the 3 years taken for analysis. This implies that working capital of HUL is always negative. This is generally considered an aggressive strategy i.e. to financing its long term asset by short term sources that increases profitability because current liabilities are non interest bearing items. There is significant difference between CR and LR which indicates that the current asset of HUL consists of good amount of inventory. Value of sundry debtors is quite low since there is minor difference between LR and ACR. The liquidity ratios have decreased from previous year which shows that HUL has reduced its liquidity further. On analyzing the operating cycle it can be said that HUL takes good amount of time to pay its creditors and this is how it manage to run its operations with negative working capital. Solvency Ratio: Solvency Ratios indicate the companys ability to meet its Long-term liability. These ratios indicate the ability of the firm to return the investment made by its owners and debt providers in the business, in case the company is closed down. These ratios are usually seen by the debt providers or financial institutions in order to assess the risk involved in the business. If the firm is closed down then first it is liable to pay back its loan and then if it is left with something that belongs to the share holders. Debt Equity Ratio: Debt Equity ratio is obtained by dividing Long Term outside Liability (Debt) by Net Worth. This ratio indicates the risk involved for loan givers. If it is too high then the owner may not be that much concerned for profit making since he has invested less in the business and hence getting less return. If the company makes loss ad closed down subsequently, then the owner does not loose much and loan givers will have to bear relatively more losses. This ratio also determines EPS. Interest Coverage Ratio: ICR indicates the firms ability to pay the interest of the loans taken. It is ratio of PBIT to Interest. Debt to Total Funds: This ratio indicates the share of the debt in total sources used to fund the business. Since total sources are equal to total assets, this ratio is analyzed to assess the firms ability to meet its long term liability i.e. ability to pay back its loan, in case the company is closed down. Reserves and Surplus to Total Fund: This ratio indicates the share of the Reserves and Surplus in total sources used to fund the business. Since total source are equal to total assets, this ratio is used to assess the firms ability to meet its long term liability towards its owner that is, ability to return the share profit made by the business that belongs to shareholders, in case the company is closed down. Analysis of Solvency Ratios: The loans taken by HUL were high in 2004 which is indicated by high debt to total source ratio and this is why its ICR ratio was low (as compared to ICR in 2005 and 2006). It has decreased its loan and currently it is financing its business mostly by net worth and current liability. Debt to equity ratio has decreased over the years as it has reduced the loans. Its RS to Total source has increased which indicates that HUL invests accumulated profit into business with decreasing debt. Now HULs assets are financed by net worth and current liability with debt being a small component of total source. Profitability Ratio: Profitability Ratios show how successful a company is in terms of generating returns or profits on the Investment that has been made in the business i.e. the Profitability ratios indicates the ability of the firm to generate and distribute the profit. It can be broadly categorized into profit generating ability (PGA) ratios and profit distributing ability (PDA) ratios. It can be said the higher these ratios the better it is for the company. PBIT to Sales: This ratio is obtained by dividing Profit before Interest and Tax by Sales. This ratio is a measure of the companys profit generating ability on a given volume of sales. This is the most basic ratio of profit generating ability on sales i.e. sales margin because it does not take into account the interest and taxes which the company has to pay. PBT to Sales: This ratio is obtained by dividing Profit before Tax by Sales. This ratio gives the companys profit generating ability on a given volume of sales. This ratio takes the profit after paying the interest in order to assess profit made (profit margin) after all the expenses except tax. Operating Expenses to Sales: It is a measure of the expenses that are incurred on a particular volume of sales. This ratio can be used to analyze the cost incurred and find out the ways to reduce the operational cost without decreasing the sales volume. Return on Net worth (RONW): This ratio gives an indication about the profit being made by the firm on the investment made by the owner. This ratio is used to analyze the business from the perspective of the owner. RONW is an indicator of profit distributing ability of a firm. Return on Capital Employed (ROCE): This ratio indicates the profit making ability of the firm on total capital employed which consists of owners fund and debt. This is a profit generating ability ratio which is seen by owners and debt providers. Return on Total Asset: ROTA tells how efficiently the firm is using its assets or total sources of fund to generate profit. It is a profit generating ability ratio. Earning Per Share: EPS is an indicator of profit distributing ability of a firm. This ratio tells how much profit the firm is making on owners investment on a single share of the company. Dividend per Share: DPS ratio gives an idea of the actual distribution of profit to the owners i.e. profit distributed to shareholders per share. CFO to PAT: CFO to PAT compares the net cash generated from operational activities with net profit made by the firm. It gives an idea as to how much profit is realized and how it is being used in different activities(Investment, financial, Operational) Some of the profitability ratio in this report do not match with the values given in HULS summary of performance because the sales figures taken here are after excise duty whereas the sales figures taken by HUL for calculating these ratios are before excise duty i.e. Gross Sales. Analysis of Profitability Ratios: PBIT as percentage of sales is moderately good and there has not been any significant change in it during last three years. Similar is the case of PBT/Sales. PBT/Sales are higher than the PBIT/Sales for year 2006 and 2005 which indicate that PBT is more than PBIT. This implies that interest paid by the company is negative. On closely watching the financial statement, it has been found that Net Income from Interest for HUL is positive for the years 2006 and 2005 making PBT higher than PBIT. That is because Income Received by the company is more than that to be paid. There has not been any significant change in operating expense as percentage of sales in last three years. For FMCG business the operating expense to sales ratio around 30% can be considered good as the company has to spend heavily on its distribution network and promotional activities. The profit distributing ability of the firm is excellent with return on net worth (RONW) being around 58 % over the years. The profit generating ability similar to the profit distributing ability is pretty good with ROCE over 60% during the year 2005 and 2006. ROCE in year 2005 has increased from the figure of 2004, perhaps because of the decrease in debt (change in capital structure) and increase in current liability (non interest bearing item). Return on total asset (ROTA) has been moderately good with almost constant value of around 22% over the years. The face value of Equity Share of HUL is Rs. 1. Analyzing the EPS and DPS, which are profit distributing ability ratios, for HUL we can see that it has been generating more than 500% times profit for its shareholders over the years. The EPS increased over the years from Rs.5.xx in year 2004 to Rs. 8.xx in year 2006. It has been generous in distributing the profit in form of dividend with DPS Rs 6 in year 2004 and Rs. 5 in year 2005 and 2006. The trend of CFO/PBIT is worth analyzing since the companys CFO is close to its PBIT which indicates that almost entire profit of HUL comes from its operation and the profit is realized. In year 2005 the CFO is higher than PBIT indicating the negative CFF or CFI i.e. the company has realized the profit(in form of cash) and invested in long term assets or paid its long term outside liabilities(loans). Market Based Returns: Market based return figures indicate the firms position in the market and the benefits associated with the investment in company. A small investor, if interested in purchasing the shares of a company, first looks at the market capitalization of the company and return that he can expect on the price paid for the share. Price to Earning Ratio: Return associated with the shares on its market price. Since the investors buy the share at its market price and not at face value or book value, this ratio gives information about the actual return on investment. Market Cap to Net worth (Price to Book Value Ratio): Comparison of market value of the firm with the owners fund. This can give an idea about the success of the company in increasing the value of owners investment. Market Capitalization: Market value of the firm. Market capitalization gives an indication of the companys financial status in the market. Market capitalization is used to compare the size of the organization in term of market value. Average Market Capitalization: Average Market value of the firm over the year. Average is taken because the market value of shares keeps on changing and so is market capitalization. Analysis of Market Based Returns: PER ratio for HUL is not so good with values over 30 in year 2006 and 2005 and somewhat better with value around 25 in the year 2004. It means an investor will get return around 1/30 times on his actual investment. Market capitalization of HUL has increased after 2004. Ratio Analysis: Inter Company Analysis -HUL and ITC Comparison of Liquidity Position: Current Ratio for HUL is negative whereas it is positive for ITC. This indicates that HUL has negative working capital and ITC has positive working capital. ITC is funding its short term asset by long term funds and HUL funding its long term asset by its short term non-interest bearing sources (CL). One more difference in liquidity position of the two companies can be seen through the difference between the CR and ACR. There is huge difference in ACR and CR of ITC which shows that it has less cash or near cash items in its current liabilities whereas for HUL the difference is moderate. Working Capital Days for ITC is positive and WCD for HUL is negative. It can be said that HUL has more current liab

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Indian Government Promoting Investment In Agriculture Economics Essay

Indian Government Promoting Investment In Agriculture Economics Essay The main objectives of the Governments price policy for agricultural produce, aims at ensuring remunerative prices to the growers for their produce with a view to encourage higher investment and production. Towards the end, minimum support prices for major agricultural products are announced each year which are fixed after taking into account, the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP). The CACP while recommending prices takes into account all-important factors, viz. Cost of Production Changes in Input Prices Input/Output Price Parity Trends in Market Prices Inter-crop Price Parity Demand and Supply Situation Effect on Industrial Cost Structure Effect on General Price Level Effect on Cost of Living International Market Price Situation Parity between Prices Paid and Prices Received by farmers (Terms of Trade). EXIM Policy EXIM Policy is the export import policy of the government that is announced every five years. It is also known as the Foreign Trade Policy. This policy consists of general provisions regarding exports and imports, promotional measures, duty exemption schemes, export promotion schemes, special economic zone programs and other details for different sectors. Every year the government announces a supplement to this policy. The EXIM Policy of 2002-2007 (External website that opens in a new window) emphasized the importance of agricultural exports and announced measures like the setting up of agri export zones, removal of procedural restrictions and marketing cost assistance. Agri Export Zones are considered the most important creation of this policy Agri Export Zones (External website that opens in a new window) Agri Export Zones were formed as a result of this policy. These zones are meant to promote agricultural exports from the country and provide remunerative returns to the farming community regularly. They are to be identified by the State Government, which would evolve a comprehensive package of services to be provided by all State Government agencies, State Agriculture Universities and all institutions and agencies of the Union Government for intensive delivery in these zones. Corporate sector companies with proven credentials would be encouraged to sponsor new agri export zones or take over already notified agri export zones. Services that would be managed and coordinated through this scheme include the provision of pre/post harvest operations, plant protection, processing, packaging, storage and related research and development. APEDA will supplement, within its schemes and provisions, the efforts of State Governments for facilitating exports. Click here for a list of the Agri Export Zones. After, a change of government at the centre, a new EXIM Policy of 2004 2009 was announced. This policy came up with export promotional measures such as Towns of Export Excellence, Target Plus, Free Trade and Warehousing Zones and the Vishesh Krishi Upaj Yojana. Here are details on these schemes: Towns of Export Excellence Here, towns in specific areas that produce goods of Rs.250 crores and above in the handloom, agriculture, handicraft and fisheries sector will be notified as Towns of Exports Excellence on the basis of their potential for growth in exports. They will be granted this recognition to maximize their potential, enable them to move higher in the value chain and tap new markets. Target Plus In this scheme, exporters who have attained a large increase in growth of exports would be allowed duty free credit based on incremental exports substantially higher than the general actual export target fixed. Rewards will be granted according to a tiered approach. For incremental growth of over 20, 25 and 100 per cent, the duty free credits would be 5, 10 and 15 per cent of Free on Board (FOB) value of incremental exports. Vishesh Krishi Gram Udyog Yojana It aims to promote exports of fruits, vegetables, flowers, fruits, and other value-added products. This year it has been expanded to include soybean and coconut oil as well as food preparations such as soups. Plus, the benefit of the scheme has been extended to 100 per cent export-oriented units. Import and Export Since Independence, India has made a lot of progress in agriculture in terms of growth in output, yields and area under crops. It has gone through a Green Revolution (food grains), a White Revolution (milk), a Yellow Revolution (oilseeds) and a Blue Revolution (aquaculture). Today, India is one of the largest producers of milk, fruits, cashew nuts, coconuts and tea in the world. It is also well known for the production of wheat, vegetables, sugar, fish, tobacco and rice. Certain types of agriculture such as horticulture, organic farming, floriculture, genetic engineering, packaging and food processing have the potential to see a surge in revenues through exports. Over the past few years, the government has stressed on the development of horticulture and floriculture by creating vital infrastructure for cold storage, refrigerated transportation, packaging, processing and quality control. If India wishes to optimize the production and export potential of these commodities, then it is essential to improve these facilities, marketing and export networks much further. In recent years, the Central Government has offered different fiscal incentives for bettering storage facilities in rural areas. It also provides financial assistance to the State Governments for acquiring and distributing food grains at subsidized rates, especially to families with annual income below the poverty line. Today, the improved availability of bank credit through priority lending, favourable terms of trade and liberalized domestic and external trade for agricultural commodities have also encouraged private players to invest in agriculture. The major thrust of the policies and programmes of the Government of India relating to livestock and fisheries is in the areas of rapid genetic upgradation of milch animals, improvement in the delivery mechanism of breeding inputs, control of animal diseases, creation of disease free zones, increased availability of nutritious feed, development of dairy activities and backyard poultry, development of processing and marketing facilities and enhancement of production and profitability of livestock. Agricultural Exports (External website that opens in a new window) Agricultural exports have shown an increase (External website that opens in a new window) from around Rs.60 billion in 1990 91 to Rs.398 billion in 2005-06. The Governments special efforts to encourage export of food grains in recent years through grant of World Trade Organization (External website that opens in a new window) or WTO compatible subsidies has lead to India becoming one of the leading exporters of food grains in the international market Agricultural Imports (External website that opens in a new window) The imports of agricultural products (External website that opens in a new window) improved from Rs.12 billion in 1990 91 to Rs.220 billion in 2005- 06. The share of agri-imports to total merchandise imports in 2005-06 was 4.59 percent. Edible oil is the single largest agricultural product imported into the country and accounts for around two-thirds of the total agricultural imports. NEW AGRICULTURE POLICY Agriculture is a way of life, a tradition, which, for centuries, has shaped the thought, the outlook, the culture and the economic life of the people of India. Agriculture, therefore, is and will continue to be central to all strategies for planned socio-economic development of the country. Rapid growth of agriculture is essential not only to achieve self-reliance at national level but also for household food security and to bring about equity in distribution of income and wealth resulting in rapid reduction in poverty levels. Indian agriculture has, since Independence, made rapid strides. In taking the annual foodgrains production from 51 million tonnes in early fifties to 206 million tonnes at the turn of the century, it has contributed significantly in achieving self-sufficiency in food and in avoiding food shortages. Over 200 million Indian farmers and farm workers have been the backbone of Indias agriculture. Despite having achieved national food security the well being of the farming community continues to be a matter of grave concern for planners and policy makers. The establishment of an agrarian economy which ensures food and nutrition to Indias billion people, raw materials for its expanding industrial base and surpluses for exports, and a fair and equitable reward system for the farming community for the services they provide to the society, will be the mainstay of reforms in the agriculture sector. The National Policy on Agriculture seeks to actualise the vast untapped growth potential of Indian agriculture, strengthen rural infrastructure to support faster agricultural development, promote value addition, accelerate the growth of agro business, create employment in rural areas, secure a fair standard of living for the farmers and agricultural workers and their families, discourage migration to urban areas and face the challenges arising out of economic liberalization and globalisation. Over the next two decades, it aims to attain: The salient features of the new agricultural policy are: Over 4 per cent annual growth rate aimed over next two decades.. Greater private sector participation through contract farming. Price protection for farmers. National agricultural insurance scheme to be launched. Dismantling of restrictions on movement of agricultural commodities throughout the country. Rational utilisation of countrys water resources for optimum use of irrigation potential. High priority to development of animal husbandry, poultry, dairy and aquaculture. Capital inflow and assured markets for crop production. Exemption from payment of capital gains tax on compulsory acquisition of agricultural land. Minimise fluctuations in commodity prices. Continuous monitoring of international prices. Plant varieties to be protected through a legislation. Adequate and timely supply of quality inputs to farmers. High priority to rural electrification. Setting up of agro-processing units and creation of off-farm employment in rural areas. Sustainable Agriculture The policy will seek to promote technically sound, economically viable, environmentally non-degrading, and socially acceptable use of countrys natural resources land, water and genetic endowment to promote sustainable development of agriculture. Measures will be taken to contain biotic pressures on land and to control indiscriminate diversion of agricultural lands for non-agricultural purposes. The unutilized wastelands will be put to use for agriculture and afforestation. Particular attention will be given for increasing cropping intensity through multiple-cropping and inter-cropping. Rational utilization and conservation of the countrys abundant water resources will be promoted. Conjunctive use of surface and ground water will receive highest priority. Special attention will be focused on water quality and the problem of receding ground-water levels in certain areas as a result of over-exploitation of underground aquifers. Proper on-farm management of water resources for the optimum use of irrigation potential will be promoted. Erosion and narrowing of the base of Indias plant and animal genetic resources in the last few decades has been affecting the food security of the country. Survey and evaluation of genetic resources and safe conservation of both indigenous and exogenously introduced genetic variability in crop plants, animals and their wild relatives will receive particular attention. The use of bio-technologies will be promoted for evolving plants which consume less water, are drought resistant, pest resistant, contain more nutrition, give higher yields and are environmentally safe. Conservation of bio-resources through their ex situ preservation in Gene Banks, as also in situ conservation in their natural habitats through bio-diversity parks, etc., will receive a high priority to prevent their extinction. Specific measures will also be taken to conserve indigenous breeds facing extinction. There will be a time bound programme to list, catalogue and classify countrys vast agro bio-diversity. Sensitization of the farming community with the environmental concerns will receive high priority. Balanced and conjunctive use of bio-mass, organic and inorganic fertilizers and controlled use of agro chemicals through integrated nutrients and pest management (INM IPM) will be promoted to achieve the sustainable increases in agricultural production. A nation-wide programme for utilization of rural and urban garbage, farm residues and organic waste for organic matter repletion and pollution control will be worked out. Agro-forestry and social forestry are prime requisites for maintenance of ecological balance and augmentation of bio-mass production in agricultural systems. Agro-forestry will receive a major thrust for efficient nutrient cycling, nitrogen fixation, organic matter addition and for improving drainage. Farmers will be encouraged to take up farm/agro-forestry for higher income generation by evolving technology, extension and credit support packages and removing constraints to development of agro and farm forestry. Involvement of farmers and landless labourers will be sought in the development of pastures/forestry programmes on public wastelands by giving financial incentives and entitlements to the usufructs of trees and pastures. The history and traditional knowledge of agriculture, particularly of tribal communities, relating to organic farming and preservation and processing of food for nutritional and medicinal purposes is one of the oldest in the world. Concerted efforts will be made to pool, distil and evaluate traditional practices, knowledge and wisdom and to harness them for sustainable agricultural growth. Food and Nutritional Security Special efforts will be made to raise the productivity and production of crops to meet the increasing demand for food generated by unabated demographic pressures and raw materials for expanding agro-based industries. A regionally differentiated strategy will be pursued, taking into account the agronomic, climatic and environmental conditions to realize the full growth potential of every region. Special attention will be given to development of new crop varieties, particularly of food crops, with higher nutritional value through adoption of bio-technology particularly genetic modification, while addressing bio-safety concerns. A major thrust will be given to development of rainfed and irrigated horticulture, floriculture, roots and tubers, plantation crops, aromatic and medicinal plants, bee-keeping and sericulture, for augmenting food supply, exports and generating employment in rural areas. Availability of hybrid seeds and disease-free planting materials of improved varieties, supported by a network of regional nurseries, tissue culture laboratories, seed farms will be promoted to support systematic development of horticulture having emphasis on increased production, post-harvest management, precision farming, bio-control of pests and quality regulation mechanism and exports. Animal husbandry and fisheries also generate wealth and employment in agriculture sector. Development of animal husbandry, poultry, dairying and aqua-culture will receive a high priority in the efforts for diversifying agriculture, increasing animal protein availability in the food basket and for generating exportable surpluses. A national livestock breeding strategy will be evolved to meet the requirements of milk, meat, egg and livestock products and to enhance the role of draught animals as a source of energy for farming operations and transport. Major thrust will be on genetic upgradation of indigenous/native cattle and buffaloes using proven semen and high quality pedigreed bulls and by expanding artificial insemination network to provide services at the farmers doorstep. Generation and dissemination of appropriate technologies in the field of animal production as also health care to enhance production and productivity levels will be given greater attention. Cultivation of fodder crops and fodder trees will be encouraged to meet the feed and fodder requirements and to improve animal nutrition and welfare. Priority will also be given to improve the processing, marketing and transport facilities, with emphasis on modernization of abattoirs, carcass utilization and value addition thereon. Since animal disease eradication and quarantine is critical to exports, animal health system will be strengthened and disease-free zones created. The involvement of cooperatives and private sector will be encouraged for development of animal husbandry, poultry and dairy. Incentives for livestock and fisheries production activities will be brought at par with incentives for crop production. An integrated approach to marine and inland fisheries, designed to promote sustainable aquaculture practices, will be adopted. Biotechnological application in the field of genetics and breeding, harmonal applications, immunology and disease control will receive particular attention for increased aquaculture production. Development of sustainable technologies for fin and shell fish culture as also pearl-culture, their yield optimization, harvest and post-harvest operations, mechanization of fishing boats, strengthening of infrastructure for production of fish seed, berthing and landing facilities for fishing vessels and development of marketing infrastructure will be accorded high priority. Deep sea fishing industry will be developed to take advantage of the vast potential of countrys exclusive economic zone. Generation and Transfer of Technology A very high priority will be accorded to evolving new location-specific and economically viable improved varieties of agricultural and horticultural crops, livestock species and aquaculture as also conservation and judicious use of germplasm and other bio-diversity resources. The regionalization of agricultural research, based on identified agro-climatic zones, will be accorded high priority. Application of frontier sciences like bio-technology, remote sensing technologies, pre and post-harvest technologies, energy saving technologies, technology for environmental protection through national research system as well as proprietary research will be encouraged. The endeavour will be to build a well organized, efficient and result-oriented agriculture research and education system to introduce technological change in Indian agriculture. Upgradation of agricultural education and its orientation towards uniformity in education standards, women empowerment, user-orientation, vocationalizati on and promotion of excellence will be the hallmark of the new policy.. The research and extension linkages will be strengthened to improve quality and effectiveness of research and extension system. The extension system will be broad-based and revitalized. Innovative and decentralized institutional changes will be introduced to make the extension system farmer-responsible and farmer-accountable. Role of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Farmers Organizations, Cooperatives, corporate sector and para-technicians in agricultural extension will be encouraged for organizing demand-driven production systems. Development of human resources through capacity building and skill upgradation of public extension functionaries and other extension functionaries will be accorded a high priority. The Government will endeavour to move towards a regime of financial sustainability of extension services through effecting in a phased manner, a more realistic cost recovery of extension services and inputs, while simultaneously safeguarding t he interests of the poor and the vulnerable groups. Mainstreaming gender concerns in agriculture will receive particular attention. Appropriate structural, functional and institutional measures will be initiated to empower women and build their capabilities and improve their access to inputs, technology and other farming resources. Inputs Management Adequate and timely supply of quality inputs such as seeds, fertilizers, plant protection chemicals, bio-pesticides, agricultural machinery and credit at reasonable rates to farmers will be the endeavour of the Government. Soil testing and quality testing of fertilisers and seeds will be ensured and supply of spurious inputs will be checked. Balanced and optimum use of fertilizers will be promoted together with use of organic manures and bio-fertilizers to optimize the efficiency of nutrient use. Development, production and distribution of improved varieties of seeds and planting materials and strengthening and expansion of seed and plant certification system with private sector participation will receive a high priority. A National Seed Grid will be established to ensure supply of seeds especially to areas affected by natural calamities. The National Seeds Corporation (NSC) and State Farms Corporation of India (SFCI) will be restructured for efficient utilization of investment and manpower. Protection to plant varieties through a sui generis legislation, will be granted to encourage research and breeding of new varieties particularly in the private sector in line with Indias obligations under TRIPS Agreement. The farmers will, however, be allowed their traditional rights to save, use, exchange, share and sell their farm saved seeds except as branded seeds of protected varieties for commercial purpose. The interests of the researchers will also be safeguarded in carrying out research on proprietary varieties to develop new varieties. Integrated pest management and use of biotic agents in order to minimize the indiscriminate and injudicious use of chemical pesticides will be the cardinal principle covering plant protection. Selective and eco-friendly farm mechanization through appropriate technology will be promoted, with special reference to rainfed farming to reduce arduous work and to make agriculture efficient and competitive as also to increase crop productivity. Incentives for Agriculture The Government will endeavour to create a favourable economic environment for increasing capital formation and farmers own investments by removal of distortions in the incentive regime for agriculture, improving the terms of trade with manufacturing sectors and bringing about external and domestic market reforms backed by rationalization of domestic tax structure. It will seek to bestow on the agriculture sector in as many respects as possible benefits similar to those obtaining in the manufacturing sector, such as easy availability of credit and other inputs, and infrastructure facilities for development of agri-business industries and development of effective delivery systems and freed movement of agro produce. Consequent upon dismantling of Quantitative Restrictions on imports as per WTO Agreement on Agriculture, commodity-wise strategies and arrangements for protecting the grower from adverse impact of undue price fluctuations in world markets and for promoting exports will be formulated. Apart from price competition, other aspects of marketing such as quality, choice, health and bio-safety will be promoted. Exports of horticultural produce and marine products will receive particular emphasis. A two-fold long term strategy of diversification of agricultural produce and value addition enabling the production system to respond to external environment and creating export demand for the commodities produced in the country will be evolved with a view to providing the farmers incremental income from export earnings. A favourable economic environment and supportive public management system will be created for promotion of agricultural exports. Quarantine, both of exports and imports, will be giv en particular attention so that Indian agriculture is protected from the ingress of exotic pests and diseases. In order to protect the interest of farmers in context of removal of Quantitative Restrictions, continuous monitoring of international prices will be undertaken and appropriate tariffs protection will be provided. Import duties on manufactured commodities used in agriculture will be rationalized. The domestic agricultural market will be liberalized and all controls and regulations hindering increase in farmers income will be reviewed and abolished to ensure that agriculturists receive prices commensurate with their efforts, investment. Restrictions on the movement of agricultural commodities throughout the country will be progressively dismantled. The structure of taxes on foodgrains and other commercial crops will be reviewed and rationalized. Similarly, the excise duty on materials such as farm machinery and implements, fertilizers, etc., used as inputs in agricultural production, post harvest storage and processing will be reviewed. Appropriate measures will be adopted to ensure that agriculturists by and large remain outside the regulatory and tax collection systems. Farmers will be exempted from payment of capital gains tax on compulsory acquisition of agricultural land. Investments in Agriculture The agriculture sector has been starved of capital. There has been a decline in the public sector investment in the agriculture sector. Public investment for narrowing regional imbalances, accelerating development of supportive infrastructure for agriculture and rural development particularly rural connectivity will be stepped up. A time-bound strategy for rationalisation and transparent pricing of inputs will be formulated to encourage judicious input use and to generate resources for agriculture. Input subsidy reforms will be pursued as a combination of price and institutional reforms to cut down costs of these inputs for agriculture. Resource allocation regime will be reviewed with a view to rechannelizing the available resources from support measures towards assets formation in rural sector. A conducive climate will be created through a favourable price and trade regime to promote farmers own investments as also investments by industries producing inputs for agriculture and agro-based industries. Private sector investments in agriculture will also be encouraged more particularly in areas like agricultural research, human resource development, post-harvest management and marketing. Rural electrification will be given a high priority as the prime mover for agricultural development. The quality and availability of electricity supply will be improved and the demand of the agriculture sector will be met adequately in a reliable and cost effective manner. The use of new and renewable sources of energy for irrigation and other agricultural purposes will also be encouraged. Bridging the gap between irrigation potential created and utilized, completion of all on-going projects, restoration and modernization of irrigation infrastructure including drainage, evolving and implementing an integrated plan of augmentation and management of national water resources will receive special attention for augmenting the availability and use of irrigation water. Emphasis will be laid on development of marketing infrastructure and techniques of preservation, storage and transportation with a view to reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring a better return to the grower. The weekly periodic markets under the direct control of Panchayat Raj institutions will be upgraded and strengthened. Direct marketing and pledge financing will be promoted. Producers markets on the lines of Ryatu Bazars will be encouraged throughout the width and breadth of the country. Storage facilities for different kinds of agricultural products will be created in the production areas or nearby places particularly in the rural areas so that the farmers can transport their produce to these places immediately after harvest in shortest possible time. The establishment of cold chains, provision of pre-cooling facilities to farmers as a service and cold storage in the terminal markets and improving the retail marketing arrangements in urban areas, will be given priority. Upgr adation and dissemination of market intelligence will receive particular attention. Setting up of agro-processing units in the producing areas to reduce wastage, especially of horticultural produce, increased value addition and creation of off-farm employment in rural areas will be encouraged. Collaboration between the producer cooperatives and the corporate sector will be encouraged to promote agro-processing industry. An interactive coupling between technology, economy, environment and society will be promoted for speedy development of food and agro-processing industries and building up a substantial base for production of value added agro-products for domestic and export markets with a strong emphasis on food safety and quality. The Small Farmers Agro Business Consortium (SFAC) will be energized to cater to the needs of farmer entrepreneurs and promote public and private investments in agri-business. Institutional Structure Indian agriculture is characterized by pre-dominance of small and marginal farmers. Institutional reforms will be so pursued as to channelize their energies for achieving greater productivity and production. The approach to rural development and land reforms will focus on the following areas: Consolidation of holdings all over the country on the pattern of north-western States; Redistribution of ceiling surplus lands and waste lands among the landless farmers, unemployed youth with initial start-up capital; Tenancy reforms to recognize the rights of the tenants and share croppers; Development of lease markets for increasing the size of holdings by making legal provisions for giving private lands on lease for cultivation and agri-business; Updating and improvement of land records, computerization and issue of land pass-books to the farmers, and Recognition of womens rights in land. The rural poor will be increasingly involved in the implementation of land reforms with the help of Panchayati Raj Institutions, Voluntary Groups, Social Activists and Community Leaders. Private sector participation will be promoted through contract farming and land leasing arrangements to allow accelerated technology transfer, capital inflow and assured markets for crop production, especially of oilseeds, cotton and horticultural crops. Progressive institutionalization of rural and farm credit will be continued for providing timely and adequate credit to farmers. The rural credit institutions will be geared to promote savings, investments and risk management. Particular attention will be paid to removal of distortions in the priority sector lending by commercial banks for agriculture and rural sectors. Special measures will be taken for revamping of cooperatives to remove institutional and financial weaknesses and evolving simplified procedure for sanction and disbursement of agriculture credit. The endeavour will be to ensure distribution equity in the disbursement of credit. Micro-credit will be promoted as an effective tool for alleviating poverty. Self Help Group Bank linkage system, suited to Indian rural sector, will be developed as a supplementary mechanism for bringing the rural poor