War games hint at stronger Indo-US relations

India and the US are currently engaged in an enormous joint military exercise with the active participation of the soldiers and machinery from both sides. The unsettled South Asian scenario has made it necessary for the US to have a strong ally in the region. India has proved to be a dependable ally provided the relationship is mutually beneficial.

The US is concerned about the murky state of affairs in Afghanistan and India is more worried about Pakistan harbouring terrorists. Both nations share a common problem in the form of China. The US has plans to keep a check on China as well via a stronger relationship with India. India too is in need of a strong support to keep China at bay and to deal with the
neighbour in case of a brawl.

The primary aim of the joint military exercise is to prepare the soldier for the worst situation that can arise in the region. As per the pact signed in the month of July, India has permitted the entry of military aircraft manufacturers Lockheed and Boeing into the Indian defense market. The war game will also function as a testing stage for the Indian officials to assess US weaponry prior to ordering the same.

The program was initiated after the suicide bombing on the Indian embassy in Kabul. The attack took the lives of 17 people.
Source: - Sanjoy Alexander http://www.reelsandwheels.blogspot.com 

Sachin helps eBay India make Rs. 1.2 million sale

The online auction phenomenon reached new heights due to one site – eBay. The popularity of the site has led to the launch of its territory-specific editions across the globe. EBay India has been around for a while, but hadn’t actually been as huge a hit as the real one. But things have changed for the good recently as eBay India has achieved its biggest sale so far (single sale for Rs. 1.2 million), with a little help from a gentleman named Sachin Tendulkar. The batting maestro had placed a private coaching camp for auction on eBay. The highest bidder will get the opportunity to learn the tricks and tactics of cricket from Sachin himself. The earnings will go to Apnalaya charity, a charity firm which helps slum children. The auction was so intensely fought that it tied up with two bidders, each placing Rs. 600,000 on the table. Eventually the camp was offered to both of them with the combined camp fee of Rs. 1.2 million. One of the bidders is from Whirlpool India, New Delhi while the other is a philanthropist from Mumbai. Now what do the winners get for all that money? The camp could take place on any day from October 2009 to March 2010 on any cricket ground in India. Winners will be given the details of the venue 30 days prior to the date of the camp. The winner could bring 14 persons along or come alone. The training will include batting techniques, inputs on fitness, practice routines to follow, developing match readiness and psychological training. The camp will be on a morning to noon schedule and will be followed by a photo shoot and lunch. Is it a value for money package? We’ll never know, but can make an educated guess that it’s the admiration for the legendary batsman and the added bonuses of fame and charity associated with the whole idea which drove these two bidders to shell out the cash.  Source:www.namasteshopper.com