Indian and Chinese students 'over assessed' by US teachers

News - Indian and Chinese students 'over assessed' by US teachers

Washington, Apr. 4 (ANI): Teachers in the United States tend to unconsciously "over assess" Indian and Chinese students under the age of 11, while systematically mark down black children, a new study has found.

Academics, who looked at the marks given to thousands of children at the age 11 in Sats (nationally set tests marked remotely) found that black pupils perform consistently better in external exams than in teacher assessment.

They concluded that low expectations are damaging children's prospects.

"What is worrying is that if students do not feel that a teacher appreciates them or understands them, then they are not going to try so hard," The Observer quoted Simon Burgess, University of Bristol Professor and co-author of the report, as saying.

The study also shows that white children from very poor neighbourhoods were under-assessed when compared with their better-off peers.

The survey comes in the wake of the National Union of Teachers' call to boycott the Sats test for 11-year-olds.

They believe the external tests are distorting education and should be replaced by teachers' assessments.

However, Burgess believes that the tests were the only opportunity some children had to "prove their teachers wrong".

"These findings suggest that going down the route of abolishing key stage tests at age 11 would be a bad idea," he said.

Ed Balls, the secretary of state, seconded him, saying concerns about stereotyping were one reason he did not want to abolish the tests.

"There are still schools, particularly in white, working-class communities, where the attitude is 'the children here don't do so well, we do the best with what we have got, aspirations aren't high'. That is unacceptable," he said.

But John Bangs, of the National Union of Teachers, said that if there was stereotyping it should be tackled by improving teacher training so teachers could better assess children themselves, not by retaining Sats.

yahoo

Goa

Goa, is the smallest Indian state with a territory of 3,702 sq km. It is located in the Western Ghats.A tropical paradise, it is bathed by the warm waters of the Arabian Sea. The culture of Goa is a blend of Indian and Iberian: European style central squares and Indian bazaars, Portuguese churches sharing their walls with Hindu temples.

Christianity and Hinduism exist side by side in this state. Having been ruled by the colonial Portuguese for over 450 years, there is still a distinctive European flavor that has permeated all aspects of Goa's life including its food, religion, language, festivals, dances and names.

Apart from the increasing strength of Indian tourists from outside Goa, a large number of western tourists also arrive using the direct-chartered flights to Goa.

Area 3,702 sq. km
Population 1,343,998
Capital Panaji
Principal Languages Konkani and Marathi

Agriculture

Rice is the main food crop. Pulses, ragi and other food crops are also grown. Main cash crops are coconut, cashewnut, arecanut, sugarcane and fruits like pineapple, mango and banana. The State has a rich forest cover of more than 1,424 sq. km.

Irrigation and Power

With the commissioning of dams like Selaulim and Anjunem and other minor irrigation projects, area under irrigation is rising steadily. Total irrigation potential created by these projects is 43,000 hectares. All villages have been electrified leading to hundred percent coverage.

Industry and Minerals

The State has 7110 small-scale industrial units and 20 industrial estates. Mineral products are Ferro-manganese, bauxite and iron ore contributing substantially to the economy of the State through exports.

Transport

Roads: Of the motor-able roads, national highway constitutes 224 km, state highways 232 km and district roads 815 km.

Railways: Goa is linked with Mumbai, Mangalore and Thiruvananthapuram through the Konkan Railway, which has introduced several fast trains on these lines. Vasco da Gama is connected with Bangalore and Belgaum on the South Central Railway, presently for goods traffic only.

Aviation: Mumbai, Delhi, Thiruvananthapuram, Cochin, Chennai, Agati and Bangalore are linked with Dabolim through regular Airlines services.

Ports: Mormugao is the major port in the State. Mormugao handles cargo vessels. Minor ports are located at Panaji, Tiracol, Chapora Betul and Talpona, out of which Panaji is the main operative port. One offshore berth at Panaji has also been commissioned.

Wildlife

Goa has rich and varied wildlife destinations. The rugged Western Ghats is a haven for many different species of birds and animals. The Western Ghats also known as the Sahyadris extend for a total of 600kms.Goa and the neighboring Karnataka account for the widest belt of forests along the Sanhedrin. The Coastal areas provide the tropical backdrop. Goa Wildlife sanctuaries are a haven for herds of deer and gaurs (Indian bison), Malayan giant squirrels, clusters of monkeys, slithering cobras and pythons. You may be lucky enough to spot a few black panthers on look out for preys. Tigers and elephants are also common sights. Nature lovers, bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts find vibrant avenues in the Konkan belt to enjoy the varied wildlife.Wild Life Sanctuaries in Goa gives you detailed information related to the Wildlife in Goa. Log on to Goa Hub to enjoy the wildlife sanctuaries of Goa.

Wild Life Sanctuaries

Goa is gifted with over 1512 documented species of plants, over 275 kinds of birds, over 48 varieties of animals and over 60 genera of reptiles. Few of the tourists know that one third of Goa is covered with rich forest and that it is one of the greatest reservoirs of biodiversity in the world.

Beaches

For most of the people heading towards Goa, it is one long beach. But once they are there they realize this folly of them. Goa is a state though a small one and there is a large number of famous beaches, many towns and a good network of roads. It is a state of seven rivers and their estuaries, there are hills with lush green vegetation, and most of the tourists are needed to cover large distances to move from one place to other. Goa has a total coastline of 125 km and that makes people believe that it is a long big beach however illusionist it is.

Beaches of Goa are much ahead of other beaches in India in terms of popularity and the facilities that are available here. The beaches here have been accepted as a matter of life, there are exotic cuisine backing the pleasure of have on sun and sand, and water sports facilities that include from water scooters to water gliding. To add on you can shake your legs for some time with a glass of feni and beer, engaged in shopping on the beach side, or have midnight bonfire on the beach.

There are some more aspects of Goa beaches that attract tourists every year. Whatsoever times you have visited these beaches they tend to change their look and get new designs every new season. These beaches refurbish themselves every new season and enhance the excitement of visitors who are never tired of appreciating Goa. Out of 125 km of coastline the beaches of Goa cover not less than 83 km and there is one for you also waiting to be explored. Go and find it!

Delhi

Delhi or National Capital Territory of Delhi is India's capital and includes New Delhi, Old Delhi, and Delhi Cantt. Also referred to as NCR, it incorporates satellite cities of Faridabad, Gurgaon, Ghaziabad and Noida. Delhi has always been an attraction for travelers and tourists. It caters to various needs of tourists. From shopping to sight seeing, forts and monuments to beautiful gardens, Delhi has it all.

It also has many state of the art hotels to offer to its tourists. The economy of the state benefits from its service sector, which comprises of insurance, travel and tourism, mortgage, real estate, consultancy and educational institutes.

Delhi is popularly known as 'Heart of India.' A direct consequence of Delhi's rich history is its magnificent monuments. Delhi also offers a glimpse of India's religious diversity. It has many temples, mosques, gurudawaras and churches.

Agriculture

The principal food crops are wheat, bajra, jowar, gram and maize. However, emphasis has now shifted from food crops to vegetables and fruit crops, dairy, poultry-farming, floriculture, etc., as these are more remunerative than food crops in the territory

Industry

Delhi is not only the largest commercial centre in northern India, but also the largest centre of small industries. These are manufacturing a wide variety of items like television, tape recorders, light engineering machines and automobile parts, sports goods, bicycles and PVC goods including footwear textiles, fertilizers, medicines, hosiery, leather goods, software, etc.

Delhi's new millennium industrial policy, emphasizes setting up of high tech and sophisticated industries in electronics, telecommunications, software industries, IT enabling services, etc. The industries, which are non-polluting and encourage high value addition and depend largely on skilled manpower are being promoted. DSIDC is setting up a Training Institute for Gems and Jewellery and Assaying and Hallmarking Centre at Okhla in the building of Hi tech Vocational Centre.

For the purpose of relocating industrial units functioning in residential non-conforming areas, the Government of NCT of Delhi took possession of 1900 acres of land at village Bawana, Holambi Kalan and Holambi Khurd for developing new industrial estates. Bawana Industrial area developed by DSIDC is the largest in Asia and is spread over 1900 acres of land. At Narela 900 plots have been developed and allotted and another 600 plots are being developed. Work of construction of 378 flatted factories at Jhilmil Industrial Area for relocation of smaller units has been completed. 450 acres of land have been taken for development at the Bhorgaarh industrial estates. In addition to the above, 652 hectares of land is being acquired for development into a huge industrial area in Kanjhawala/Kerala.

Irrigation and Power

Due to fast urbanisation taking in the rural areas of Delhi, cultivable command area under irrigation is getting reduced day by day. Two schemes, namely, "Keshopur Effluent Irrigation Scheme Phase-III" and "Improvement and Extension of Effluent Irrigation System from Coronation Treatment Plant" are under execution. Irrigation of about 350 hectares with state tube-wells and 1,376 hectares from effluent water is being provided in the rural area of NCT of Delhi. In addition about 4,900 hectares of land is being irrigated from western Yamuna Canal network.

The firm availability of power for Delhi from its own generating units at Rajghat Power Houses, IP Station and Gas Turbines including Badarpur Thermal Station is of the order of 850-900 MW. The remaining power is drawn from Northern Regional Grid. Delhi has also envisaged a number of generating projects to be taken up. Pragati Combined Cycle Power Project has been established at Indraprastha Estate. A 330 MW Pragati Power Project under construction is scheduled to be commissioned soon. The test run for its first phase of 100 MW has already started. The work of newly planned 330 MW gas based power plant under Pragati-II and 1000 MW power plant planned at Bawana are going on. Existing coal based Indraprastha plant is being replaced by 1000 MW gas based plant.

To streamline the distribution of power, DVB has been privatised and Delhi is now served by the two of the best electric utilities in India, BSES and Tata Power (NDPL).

Transport

Delhi is well connected by roads, rail and air with all parts of India. It has three airports - Indira Gandhi International Airport for the international flights, Palam Airport for national air services and Safdarjung Airport for training purposes. It has three important railway stations - Delhi Junction, New Delhi Railway Station and Nizamuddin Railway Station. Delhi has three inter-state bus terminals at Kashmeri Gate, Sarai Kalen Khan and Anand Vihar.

Keeping in view the rising vehicular pollution and chaotic traffic condition in the city of Delhi, it has been decided to start Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) in Delhi. The Project is under implementation and is using the state of-the-art modern technology. The metro rail project has come in Delhi. Now three metro corridors are existing in phase-1 of Delhi Metro comprising of three corridors of total length of 65.1 Km has been completed and operational in record time with full commissioning of line from Shahdara to Rithala and Vishwa Vidyalaya to Central Secretariat. The third line from Barakambha road to Dwarka has also been approved to provide better connectivity to the commuters from NCR region.

Worship places

Ashram/Mission< 1.Ramakrishna Mission Ph. 23587110, 23583023 2.Sivanand Yoga Vedant Natraja Centre Ph. 26228083, 2680869. 3. Shri.Aurobindo Ashram Delhi Branch. Ph. 26569225/7863. Hindu 1. Ayyappa Temple (Malai Mandir) Sector 2, R.K. Puram. 2. Hanuman Mandir (Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place) 3. ISKKON international society ( Sant Nagar, Min Road, east of Kailash) 4. Lakshmi Narayan Temple (Birla Mandir Marg). 5. Aksharsham Temple (Nizamuddin - Noida road) Jain Digambar Jain Temple (Opposite Red Fort). Ph. 23270060 Jewish Judah Hyam Synagogue (2, Humayun Road) Ph. 24635500 Buddhist 1. Budha Vihara Ph.23363328. 2. Laddakh Budha Vihar Ph. 23970455. Christian 1. Catheral Chruch of the redemption. (Church Road ) Ph. 23094229 2. Saint James Church (New Kashmiri Gate). 3. Free Church (Parliament Street) Ph. 23361331 Bahai Lotus Temple (near Kalkaji)

OUTDOOR {Parks}

Talkatora Garden

Talkatora means "something like a cup".It has a bowl shaped topography of the land which gives the Talkatora Garden it's name. Located at Wellingdon Crescent , the Talkatora garden blends the old and new . Located alongside with pavilions from the time of Muhammad Shah are modern stadia which are used to host a large number of national and international sporting events.

Lodhi Gardens:

Adjoining the India International Centre is this garden built around the tombs of Sayyid and Lodhi rulers. This garden is very well planned with artificial streams. The architectural style of the tombs was later used in the construction of the Taj Mahal.


The beautiful and serene Lodhi Garden was designed over two dynasties by the Sayyids and Lodhis in the 15-16th century. The park works as a breather from the hustle and bustle of the city, especially in the early mornings and early evenings, when fitness enthusiasts come for brisk walks or to jog through the manicured gardens against a backdrop of much-graffitied medieval monuments.


During the British times, the garden was re-christened Lady Willingdon Park but the original name was reverted to after India’s independence. In 1968, the gardens were spruced up and re-landscaped by JA Stein and Garrett Eckbo.

Mughal Garden

The Mughal Garden is located in the premises of the President’s House spread over 6 hectares. This garden is not normally open to public viewing. It is only during the months of February and March when the garden is in full bloom that people are allowed inside. This garden has some exotic and rare flowering plants. Dwarf orange trees and a variety of rose plants are special attractions of the garden. The fountains add to the beauty of the place.

Shalimar Garden

A narrow road branching off west from the Delhi-Karnal road about 10-km from Delhi, just beyond Badli Sarai, leads to the village that has the Shalimar Garden, where Aurangzeb crowned himself on 31st July, 1658.


Originally, it consisted of an enclosure with a palace in the centre, called Sheesh-Mahal, now surviving in parts with patches of painting. There were also some other buildings, but they have all disappeared.
Originally, the garden was known as 'Aizzabad-Bagh'. It was perhaps built by Shah Jahan and named after his mistress Aizzu'n-Nisa Begam. Aurangzeb used it as his country-house.


It has also been recorded by European travellers Bernier and Cotrou that Sir David Ochterlony, a British resident of Delhi, used Shalimar Bagh as his summer retreat.


Zoological Garden:

Designed by the West German Zoo specialist, Hergenbeck. It is between Purana Quila and Humayun's tomb. Closed on Friday's.

Jahapanah:

Ideal place for bird lovers. It is in Chirag Delhi. has well developed forests.

Buddha Jayanti Park:

A favourite picnic spot.Commemorating the 2500 th birth anniversary of Lord Buddha.Get there from the Ridge Road, Shankar Road or Sardar Patel Marg.

Millenium Park:

Located near Sarai Kale Khan behind Humayun's tomb. Spread in around 20 acres, this park provides lusty green and peaceful environment to the people.

India Gate Lawns:

Beautiful lawns spread over a Large Area. A popular evening location.Ice cream and other snacks available from mobile vendors.

Daman and Diu

Daman and Diu is the second smallest union territory in India. They are two different parts, enclosed between sea on one side and Gujarat on the other. Daman is situated near Surat: and Diu is located near Junagadh.

Till 1987, Goa, Daman and Diu were administered as a single Union Territory. The main occupation for the people of Daman and Diu is fishing. The service sector mainly comprises of Real estate, Tourism and Insurance

It is a beautiful tourist spot, and is famous for its Nagoa Beach. There are some hotels to cater to the lodging needs of tourists.

Area 112 sq. km
Population 158,204
Capital Daman
Principal Languages Gujarati

Agriculture and Irrigation

Total irrigated area is 393.93 h.a. and un-irrigated area is 3304.73 hectares as per the Agricultural Census 2000-01. In 2000-01 the net area under cultivation was 3375.65 h.a. Important field and garden crops are paddy, ragi, bajra, jowar, groundnut, pulses and beans, wheat, banana, sapota, mango, chickoo, coconut and sugarcane. There are no major forests in the territory

Industry and Power

There are 2930 small-scale and medium-scale industries in Daman and Diu. Two industrial areas have been developed by Omnibus Industrial Development Corporation at Daman. The other industrial areas are Dabhel, Bhimpore, Kachigam and Kadaiya.

All villages have been electrified. Daman and Diu have got adequate power allocation from Central sector power stations in western region.

Transport

Roads: The total length of roads in Daman and Diu are 191 km and 78 km respectively.

Railways: There is no railway link with Daman and Diu. The Nearest railway station from Daman is Vapi on western railway on Mumbai-Delhi route. The nearest railway station from Diu is Delvada on meter-gauge.

Aviation: There are airports both in Daman and Diu. Diu has been connected by air and there is regular air service from Mumbai to Diu.

Beach

Daman Diu Beach in India, How about a holiday with the soft sands, wondrous waters, swaying coconut canopies, captivating churches and fantastic forts?

Welcome to the dream destination of Daman and Diu.

The twin islands are renowned for their beaches, monuments and exotic liquors.

It is the fusion of the nature and history that comes across at Daman and Diu.

The beaches at Daman attract tourists from all over the world.

The amazing amusement park at Devka beach with its multi colored fountains is worth watching

Kids love being there and on festive occasions the illuminated park is a big draw for people of all ages, shapes and sizes. Daman Diu Beaches, You may take a pony ride or just beat the heat with a swim.

Far away from the madding crowds is the Jampore Beach.

The joy of solitude and serenity is best felt at the soft soothing sand of the Jampore Beach.

Swimming and picnic at the Casurina plantation are perfect plans for holidaying.

Nani Daman offers a bouquet of tourist attractions like the Gandhi Park, Daman Fort, the Church and a fishing dock.

Close by is Moti Daman that is a treasure trove of monuments and ancient structures. Here you must check out the lovely lighthouse.

Daman and Diu Beach India - In Diu the Chakratirth beach is a must visit with its open-air auditorium and changing rooms.

The landscape gardens and the illuminated hills are a big draw at Chakratirth beach of Diu.

Daman Diu Beaches - The NaGoa beach rolls in the shape of a horseshoe. Here you will pulsate with the palms like the other tourists.

Other popular and worth visiting beaches of Diu are Goghla, Kevdi, Gomatimala et al.

Daman and Diu Beach India, Guesthouses and cottages are excellent accommodation options at Daman and Diu.

Daman Diu Beaches, For transportation taxis and auto rickshaws are easily available. Daman and Diu Beach Vacations, The many restaurants serve exquisite seafood.

The destinations of Daman and Diu are well connected with the other cities.

The airport at Daman has flight connectivity with Baroda and Mumbai. Daman and Diu Beach Vacations - For rail transport there is the Vapi railhead.

Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a Union Territory in western India. Run by a Lieutenant Governor, it has Silvasa as its capital. It lies on the north bank of the Daman Ganga River. The major language of this union territory is Gujarati. The main economy in Dadra and Nagar Haveli is manufacturing. The taxes are very low here as there is no excise duty. In the service sector, Real Estate, Mortgage and consultancies are major contributors to the state economy.

Area 491 sq km
Population 220,490
Capital Silvassa
Principal Languages Gujarati, Hindi

Agriculture

Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a predominantly rural area with about 79 per cent tribal population. It has about 21,115 hectares under cultivation. Major crop is paddy (Kharif) while Nagli and other hill millets are crops of the area. Among fruits Mango, Chiku and Banana, etc., are also produced. Forests cover 40 per cent of the total geographical area.

Sugarcane cultivation has also been taken up in a big way since the last few years. And efforts are afoot to adopt a multiple cropping system in assured irrigated areas. During 2006-07, 87 MT of H.Y.V. seeds were distributed to 2211 farmers along with 1407 M.T. of chemical fertilizers to 6449 farmers. The organic farming scheme will shortly be implemented in Dudhani and Mandoni patelads. To this end, 60 Kisan Credit Cards have been issued.

The Wadi Development programme in the tribal area of both Dadra and Nagar Haveli is implemented by the N.G.O., B.A.I.F. with the financial allocation from NABARD, a total of 800 tribal and scheduled caste families will benefit.

Irrigation and Power

Prior to liberation of the territory, there was no irrigation facility and cultivators had to fully depend upon rainfall. After the merger of the territory with the Indian Union, adequate steps were taken under minor irrigation sector. So far 128 lift irrigation schemes have been completed on irrigation wells, surface water sources like rivers; check dams at various places in the territory crearing additional irrigation potential of 1,851 hectares. Under medium irrigation project viz., Damnganga Reservoir Project, about 115 km of minor canals and distributaries are falling in the area of this Union Territory. Development works have been completed in field channels in all respects in 4,300 hectares and testing is done in 4,049 hectares.

There was no rural electrification prior to liberation of this territory. The electricity was provided with only one DG Set which was installed and operated in Silvassa Town for VIPs at Circuit House.

After liberation, the UT Administration commenced rural electrification work with the co-operation of neighbouring State of Gujarat and completed electrification work in 25 villages by 1976. The power demand of the UT is met by Gujarat Electricity Board through a single Circuit from Vapi-Silvasa and distributed amongst limited number of consumers. The first 66 KV Sub-Station was established at Amli in 1979. With the commissioning of the said Sub-Station, the electricity department is in a position to provide electricity to all villages.

One more 220/66 KV, 2x160 MVA sub-station at village Khadoli has been approved by the Ministry of Power. The Power Grid Corporation of India will execute this work, which is likely to be completed within three years. In addition to this, a proposal for the establishment of various 66/11 KV sub-stations at Vaghdhara, Athal, Piparia, Sayli, Velugam etc is in the pipeline.

The Power requirement of the territory is being met from Central Sector Power Generating Stations located in the western region. At present the power allocation from the Central Sector is 270 MW. The power demand has increased tremendously due to rapid industrialisation with the extension of Tax Holiday benefit to this UT by the Government of India

Festivals

Normally, all festivals of Hindus, Muslims and Christians are celebrated in the territory, while tribals celebrate their own festivals. Diwaso is celebrated by Dhodia and Varli tribes, and Raksha Bandhan is celebrated by Dhodia tribe. Other festivals include Bhawada amongst Varlist, Koli tribes and Khali Puja by all tribes after harvesting of crops and Gram Devi before harvesting of crops.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Dadra and Nagar Haveli enjoys a pleasant climate from November to March. Even the summer temperature is not very high. Due to its proximity to the sea, the nights are pleasant.

HOW TO REACH

BY RAIL - The nearest railhead is Vapi at a distance of 17 km from the capital city. Silvassa is about 180 km from Mumbai and 120 km from Surat via the Mumbai-Ahmedabad National Highway 8.

Chhattisgarh

The economy of this state benefits from its Bhilai Steel Plant, S.E.C.Railway Zone, BALCO Aluminium Plant, S.E.Coal Ltd.and National Thermal Power Corporation Ltd. To add to it all Chattisgarh is a mineral rich state. The service sector boasts of Real estate, Consultancies and Insurance.

This state is also enriched with natural beauty and pleasant atmosphere. It is surrounded with dense forests, hilly mountains, streams, waterfalls, natural caves, parks etc. Bastar, also called Kashmir of Chattisgarh, attracts many foreign tourists. Mahanadi, one of the largest rivers in India originates from this state. It has some very good hotels to offer to tourists

History

According to a mythological legend, Ram, during his Vanvas stayed in Dakshin Kosala. Which is modern day Chhattisgarh. The unbroken history of Chhattisgarh or of South Kosala can be traced back to fourth century AD and its mythological history goes back as far back as the Mahabarata and the Ramayana. About the history of the region the famous historian C.W.Wills writes, 'in the 10th century AD a powerful Rajput family ruled at Tripuri near Jabalpur, Issuing from this kingdom of Chedi (also known as Kalchuri dynasty) a scion of the royal house by the name Kalingraja, settled about the year 1000AD, at Tuman, a site at present marked only by a few ruins in the north east of the erstwhile Laphazamidari of The Bilaspur district. His grandson Ratanraja founded Ratanpur Which continued as the capital of a large part of the country now known as Chhattisgarh. This Rajput family called themselves the Haihaya dyanasty. This dynasty continued ruling Chhattisgarh for six centuries about the 14th century it split into parts, the elder branch continued at Ratanpur, while the younger settled in semi-independent state at Raipur. At the end of 16th century it acknowledged the suzerainty of the Mughals, In Bastar, in the middle ages, Chalukya dynasty established its rule. The first Chalukya ruler was Annmdev, who established the dynasty in Bastar in 1320 .

The Marathas attacked Chhattisgarh in 1741 and destroyed the Haihaya power. In 1745 AD after conquering the region, they deposed Raghunathsinghji, the last surviving member of the Ratanpur house. In 1758, the Maraths finally annexed Chhattisgarh, it came directly under Maratha rule and Bimbaji Bhonsle, was appointed the rule. After death of Bimbaji Bhonsle, the Marathas adopted the Suba system. The Maratha rule was a period of unrest and misrule. There was large-scale loot and plunder by the Maratha army. The Maratha officials were openly surrendering the interests of the region to the British. As a result of this, the region became extremely poor and the people began resenting the Maratha rule. Only the Gonds continued to resist and challenge the advances of the Marathas and this led to several conflicts and much animosity between the Gonds and the Marathas (Captain Blunt, 1975). The Pindaris also attacked and plundered the region in the beginning of the Nineteenth Century.

In 1818 Chhattisgarh came under some sort of British control for the first time. In 1854, when the province of Nagpur lapsed to the British government, Chhattisgarh was formed into a deputy commissionership with its headquarters at Raipur. Historian C.W. Wills, writing about Chhattisgarh says, Chhattisgarh presents the remarkable picture of a Hindu government continuing till modern times outside the sphere of direct Mohammedancontrol. The British made certain changes in the administrative and revenue systems of Chhattisgarh, which adversely affected the people of Chhattisgarh. The intrusion of the British was resisted strongly in Bastar by the tribals and the Halba rebellion which lasted nearly five year (1774-1779) was the first documented rebellion against the British and Marathas in Bastar.

The First war of independence in 1857 was spearheaded in Chhattisgarh by Vir Narain Singh who was a benevolent jamindar of Sonakhan. The British arrested him in 1856 for looting a trader's grain stocks and distributing it amongst the poor in a severe famine year. In 1857 with the help of the solders of the British Army at Raipur, Vir Narain Singh escaped form prison. He reached Sonakhan and formed an army of 500 men. Under the leadership of Smith, a powerful British army was dispatched to crush the Sonakhan army. The British succeeded after a prolonged battle and Vir Narain Singh was arrested and later hanged on the 10th December, 1857. He became the first martyr from Chhattisgarh in the War of Independence. Vir Narain Singh's martyrdom has been resurrected in the 1980's and he has become a potent symbol of Chhattisgarhi pride.

Social Structure

Women in Chhattisgarh have traditionally enjoyed a kind of freedom denied to women elsewhere in the country. This position of women continues to be very much the same even in modern times. This comes out strongly from available data and from the general Development index in the Human Development Report (1998) of the Government of Madhya Pradesh. The districts of Chhattisgarh fare much better and rank higher in the Gender Development Index than most other districts of Madhya Pradesh. The relative freedom to women is evident in the local traditions and customs. The Pardah system, present in one form or the other in many parts of India is not present in Chhattisgarh except in a few Brahmin and Bania Communities. According to another local custom, women, other than those of these caste can choose to terminate a marriage relationship and through a custom called Chudi pahanana, it she so desires. However, a mention of these progressive local customs, in no way suggests that the ideology of female subservience does not exist in Chhattisgarh. On the contrary, in spite of this male authority and dominance is seen quite clearly in the social and cultural life of Chhattisgarh11.

The population of Chhattisgarh is notable for the high proportion of Scheduled Tribes and for specific Sects primarily constituted of Schedule Castes. Of the total population of Chhattisgarh, tribals constitute at least 32.5%, which is a significantly high percentage. In the last few decades, the demographic profile of tribal dominated areas has undergone a change. This is a cause for concern as it represents large-scale intrusion of non tribals in tribal areas. This changing demographic profile is strongly evident in Bastar, where the proportion of tribals has decreased in the last few decades. The tribal areas of Chhattisgarh have witnessed several rebellions starting from 1774 onwards against the intrusion by outsiders, primarily the British, in the domain of traditional rights and the tribal way of life. Interestingly, since the 17th century, the social history of the non-tribal areas of Chhattisgarh has been marked by reform movements such as the Satnam sect. Kabir Panthis and the Movements of share croppers and agricultural labour. Despite presence of a high tribal population and religious reform movements, the region is also the domain of classic Hindu culture (although in some rituals the impact of tribal rituals can be identified), in which the cult of Ram assumes an essential and central role. Impact of this domination in evident and has its manifestations in the growth of sectarian formations is contemporary politics.

In India, the combined population of the Scheduled Castes and Tribes is 23.6% of the total population and for Madhya Pradesh; this figure rises to 37.1%. The combined population of Scheduled Castes and Tribes in Chhattisgarh is significantly higher at 44.7% and this is largely due to a high proportion of tribal population, Although the Scheduled Castes do not constitute a very high proportion of the total population they are critical for understanding the social history of Chhattisgarh, which has been deeply influenced and effected by the religious reform movements.

Agriculture Map

Economy of Chattisgarh has grown rapidly in recent years. Chattisgarh recorded a high GDP growth of 7.35% from 2004-05 to 2008-09. More than 80 per cent population depends on agriculture. The area under cultivation is 43 per cent. Main crops are paddy, wheat, maize, groundnut, pulses and oilseeds. Chattisgarh is also called "Rice bowl of india". Chattisgarh has also very good irrigation systems with Dams and canals on different rivers.

Forests occupy 45 per cent of the area and has rich forest resources i.e Wood, Tandu leaves, Honey and lac.

Chhattisgarh is rich in mineral resources. Twenty per cent of the country's steel and cement is produced in the State. Iron-ore, limestone, dolomite, coal, bauxite are found in abundance. It is the only tin-ore producing state in the country. Other minerals such as korandum, garnet, quartz, marble, diamond are also found in Chhattisgarh.

State has private ans state owned industries, which are significant part of states economy. Bhilai steel plant and NTPC are some of state owned industry. Balco (sterlite industry), Lafarge and Jindal steel are some of big private industry in the state

Chandigarh

Chandigarh serves as a capital of two states, Punjab and Haryana. But it is administered by a federal government and is classified as a Union Territory.

Chandigarh has two satellite cities located in Punjab and Haryana that are built on the lines of Chandigarh: Panchkula and Mohali.

Both these cities are virtually the parts of Chandigarh and house a major population operating in Chandigarh. Chandigarh Technology Park is the city's entry gate to the world of information technology.

Chandigarh is also famous for its Rock Garden, Rose Garden, Sukhna Lake and its famous market in Sector 17.

These spots are very popular with both locals and tourists.

It also has state of the art lodging facilities to cater to the flourishing tourism industry.

The service sector, which comprises of educational institutes, consultancies, tourism industry, real estate and insurance companies, make considerable contribution to the state economy.

Art and Culture

Chandigarh is the city of multi cultural peoples, languages and the city with full of artistic monuments and artistic people.The artistic performances occures almost every day in the city.There are No. of art galleries,museum and theatres in Chandigarh city.

Museums and Art Galleries

City Museum Sector-10C, Chandigarh
Phone :714914

Government Museum & Art gallery, Sector-10C, Chandigarh
Phone:742501

Museum of Evolution of Life, Sector-10C,Chandigarh
Phone:742501

Fine Art Museum, Punjab University,Chandigarh
Phone:541441

International Dolls Museum,Sector-23B,Chandigarh
Phone:777858

National Gallery of Portraits,Sector-17C,Chandigarh
Phone:702565

Theaters & Auditoriums

Tagore Theater,Sector-18,Chandigarh
Phone:774278

Rock garden Open Theatre,Sector-1,Chandigarh
Phone:740645

Bhargava Auditorium,PGI,Sector-12,Chandigarh
Phone:747585-99

Home Decorations
Amrit Interiors : Unique chandeliers, (Interior Designers & Decorators) Aluminium Doors & Windows Gypsum Board, False Ceiling, Wall papers, PVC Flooring, Sun Control Films, Sceneries, Vertical & Horizontal binds

Festivals

The Festival of Gardens is a three-day celebration which is organised in the last week of February is also on the national calendar of festivals. Earlier it was known as Rose Festival it intended to encourage people to walk through the Rose Garden and enjoy the beauty of roses. The festival includes performances of music and dance, both classical and folk, flower shows, events for children, exhibitions by local artists, photographers and craftsman and a wide range of amusements. Since 1997 it is known as the Festival of Gardens. The various competitions are organised i.e childern competetion, dog show, flower decoration competetion. The various companies put up their stall to show various products.

Baisakhi is the first day of the new year in the traditional Vikrami calender, it celebrates the wheat harvest, and it is main festivals for Sikhs as this is the day of foundation of Khalsa. As the capital of two states, Punjab and Haryana, this day sees festivities organised by both the state governments as well as the Administration of the UT, and by all Chandigarhian.

The Mango festival is held in June. Mango-growers from all over India are invited to enter their prize fruits in the various competitions. Visitors to the fair can see and taste all the traditional varieties of the fruit as well as the latest hybrids from the agricultural universities. It is also an occasion for agro-industries, and food industries processing mango into jams, pickles and canned fruit to display their wares.

Teej In the first week of August this traditional festival is celebrated by the women. The Rock Garden with its swings and pavilions is the festival venue and the day is basically a grand picnic with songs and dances, purchase of new bangles, painting the hands with mehndi.

The Chrysanthemums Show In the month of December Chrysanthemums Show is held at Terraces Flower Garden in the city's Sector 33. You can see a multi-coloured wall-to-wall carpet of chrysanthemums. Hundreds of varieties of the flower are on display and city gardeners vie for coveted honours in the competitions.

The Plaza Carnival is held on an open-air stage set up in Sector 17's central piazza every evening of Saturday. The weekly almost three-hour programme draws a large crowd and provide an opportunity for talented local artists to do their stuff.

The Chandigarh Carnival. This carnival is celebrated in the second week of November every year for three days. The carnival opens with a colourful procession which everyone is encouraged to join. The carnival is a time for students and Childerns to show their talent and elders too participate in a number of competitions held at same venue.

Helpline

PGI GENERAL HOSPITAL


EMERGENCY 747005 EMERGENCY 870756
RECEPTION 746018 MEDICAL Supt. 781791
EPABX 747585 AMBULANCE 102
DIRECETOR`S OFFICE 745062 ENQUIRY 782457
MEDICAL Supt. 745043 EPABX 780186


MEDICAL COLLEGE HOSPITAL EPABX 665257-59
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS 9610-410441
PEOPLE FOR ANIMALS : 742095
SPCA 706399(O) , 696450 (HOTLINE)
S.C.A.A.L. (AQUARIUM) 713433
CREMATION GROUND 69112