Paradise Lost Essay Example for Free

Paradise Lost Essay Paradise Lost is a poem by John Milton that is about the Fall of Man, how Adam and Eve were tempted by the serpent who is Satan, and how God sent them out of the garden. Satan makes the angels turn against God leading to his expulsion out of paradise as well. God’s mercy, the son of God and the ultimate salvation and redemption are brought out in this epic poem. The poem is a series of arguments that were an expression of the characters in the poem. On further reading the poem, one understands that these poems are an expression of what Milton holds as the truth. He employs the use of analogies are digression to explain his belief with Satan considered a hero. Puritans were the extreme Protestants who were within the Church of England who held a strong belief that the Reformation did not make enough changes in the teachings and structure of the church. Puritans therefore found it upon themselves to purify their church by doing away with whatever they regarded as Catholic influence. They are extremely strict especially with regard to morality and religious matters. Puritans hold strong convictions regarding various aspects on the Biblical teachings. First, that personal salvation was from God alone. Secondly, that the Bible is the Bible was the true guide to life. Thirdly, that the way a church lives should be in accordance with what the scriptures say and finally that the society was unified as one. This paper will explain how the poem Paradise Lost is a reflection of John Milton’s Puritan beliefs. Milton discusses topics like the reality of evil, divine providence and the unification of the human race as one. As mentioned above, these are the strong convictions of Puritans. Paradise Lost is seen to be Milton’s expression of his Puritan belief which is mainly truth and purity despite the decadence of the society. In Book V, Abdiel, who was confronted by Satan refused to rebel against God and jealously guarded his faithfulness to God. The poem begins with a civil war in heaven. Here, Lucifer was exiled out of heaven after revolting against God. Together with Beelzebub, they form an alliance. This is a reflection of the civil war that happened in England with the puritans characterized as Lucifer and England as God. The Puritans had tried to take over England the same way Lucifer tried to overthrow God. Many Puritans were killed. Milton was excommunicated from the society just like Lucifer was sent away from heaven. Conclusion  Milton argues in his poem that just as God is not to blame for the fall of man, neither was Milton to take blame for the corruption and subsequent trials that were faced in England at the time of Oliver Cromwell. That the failure of Puritanism was as a result of the people not accepting God’s will in the ruler ship of England. The conclusion of the poem is based on Milton’s belief that absolute obedience to God will lead to order and sanity in the society and the world at large. According to John Milton, Paradise Lost is a parallel to the civil wars in England and the English Reformation that led to the emergence of the Puritans.

Multi Brand Retailing And Its Policy Implications Economics Essay

Multi Brand Retailing And Its Policy Implications Economics Essay With the ongoing wave of globalistaion, the companies are overhauling their approach to business practices worlwide in order to address the Opportunities and Challenges presented by the Multi Polar World. Therefore they are moving from conventional business practices to more geographical flexible approach and are aligning their strategies to the external environment. It is believed that Foreign Investment is a key component in the economic growth of any developing country. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) truly act as catalyst in this context. Indian Retail Sector carry a large prospective for attracting FDI as it is expected to grow three times the current levels.i.e.660 US billion $ by 2015.Large Format Retailers have diminished the idea of Grow local and sell local. But the latest move by the Indian government to allow 51% FDI in Multi Brand Retailing has attracted a huge debate in the country. It has been argued that the reforms will result in greater benefits to the economy, cons umers and farmers but the concerns have been raised by some political parties and trade associations that the outcome would be opposite. Henry Ford, the genius inventor said, Dont find fault, find a remedy. This axiom reverberates ever so relevantly in todays Indian retail sector scenario like never before. In this context, the present paper makes a modest attempt to analyse the controversial issues concerning the influx of FDI in multi brand retailing and also highlights the challenges and threats to all the players involved in it. This paper also reviews that adequate safeguards should be build by the Indian government so that it does not end up in losing proposition. Keywords: Foreign Direct Investment, Retail Industry, Organised Retail Industry, Unorganised Retail Industry, Single Brand Retailing, Multi Brand Retailing, E-Retailing SECTION I: Introduction India is a land of Retail Democracy which is characterized by High level of Livelihood through Employment, High level of Self Organisation, Low Capital Input and High Level of Decentralisation. India is the fifth largest Retail Market Globally. Retail contributes approx from 14%-15% of Indias GDP.India has highest Retail Density in the World with 15 million Outlets. A T Kearney, an international management consultancy firm, has acknowledged India as one of the uppermost retail destinations. According to Technopak the Indian Retail economy is jump to mature to US$ 94.4 billion by FY12 and India has all the prospective needed to sustain this growth. According to a study conducted by PWC, Indian Retail Market currently stood at US $ 400 billion in 2009-10 which is approximate to reach US $ 573 billion by 2012-13 and is growing 30%-40% per annum.The India retail market is estimated at US$ 470 Billion in 2011, contributing for 35% of GDP and is expected to rise to US$ 675 Billion by 2016. The trend and the expected Total Retail Market and Organised Retail Market in India is exhibited in Graph 1 and Graph 2. Graph 1 Graph 2 Indian Retail Industry is divided into two sectors: Organised and Unorganised Sector. Indian retail market is highly dominated by decentralized unorganized market, which accounts for about 95% of the sales. The share of organized retailing in India, at around 2%, is too near to the ground, compared to 80% in the USA, 40% in Thailand, or 20% in China, thus leaving the huge market prospective largely intact. But, organised retail industry is one of the budding sectors with massive growth potential and with its emergence; Indian economy is surely going to gain from well capitalized retail industry. Since 1991, Due to Globalisation and Liberalisation, Retail Industry has grown exponentially in form of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Foreign Investment in India is governed by the FDI policy which is announced by the Government of India and the terms of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) 1999, which was notified by Reserve bank of India This notification has been amended from time to time. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India is the nodal agency for monitoring and reviewing the FDI policy on continued basis. The FDI policy is notified through Press Notes by the Secretariat for Industrial Assistance (SIA), Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP). The foreign investors are liberated to invest in India, except few sectors where prior approval from the RBI or Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB) would be obligatory. The Government of India recognizes the momentous role played by foreign direct investment in accelerating the economic growth of the country and thus started a swing of economic and financial reforms in 1991. India is now planning to initiate the second generation reforms proposed for a faster assimilation of the Indian economy with the world economy. As an outcome, India has been rapidly altering from a restrictive regime to a liberal one. Many reforms have been done by Indian Government in this context which is shown in the figure1: Figure 1 Among the emerging markets, in 2011, India is ranked as the fourth most Attractive Country for Retail Industry as per the Global Retail Development Index which is developed by A.T Kearney on the basis of 25 macroeconomic and retail specific variables. India is expected to lead one of the best retail economies by 2042s due to good talent pool, huge markets and availability of cheap raw material. Some studies have also state that variables like market size and differences in factor costs were found to be considerable in determining the FDI location as these are very important in determining the market economies and they cannot be achieved and oppressed till the time market achieves a certain size. (Markusen and Maskus, 1999). Foreign players may invest in the form of Single Brand Retailing and Multi Brand Retailing. Organized retail has become a centre of attention for most of the leading international players. Retailing through formats such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, department st ores and other forte chains are swelling. Indias consumers chiefly fit in to the middle and lower financial strata of society and both these segments would desire shopping at multi-brand retail stores which provide them an extensive assortment of price points and options in each product class. A widely held retail companies, 33.6%, cater to the customers falling in Rs 100,000 to Rs 500,000 income group, followed by 26.2% companies catering Rs 500,000 to Rs 1,000, 000 income group, both of which are emergent segments in India.As far as shopping behaviour of Indian consumers is concerned, modern outlets are preferred because they associate entertainment with shopping and now-a-days its a customer delight to go out for shopping and entertainment simultaneously (Sinha 2003). Retail stalwarts such as Wal-Mart, Tesco and Marks Spencer have already made entry into the Indian retail industry and with multi-billion dollar funds by major household players such as Reliance Retail. The US-base d worlds largest retailer Wal-Mart has already recognized its existence in the Indian market through a wholesale cash and carry stores. The company at present operates 17 wholesale cash-and- carry stores under Best Price Modern Wholesale stores in India. This industry is expected to go from strength to strength and have bright future as a number of drivers are aiding the development of the Industry such as improved levels of income and increasing purchasing power etc. In 2006,Indian government sanctioned FDI up to 51% in single brand retailing now this cap has been increased to 100%,last year in November,2011,union cabinet allowed FDI up to 51% in multi brand retailing, but this reform was put on hold as lot of opposition and protest was generated by various state governments, political parties like Trinomial congress, small shopkeepers, small traders, trading associations, industrial associations on certain grounds which has compelled Indian government to scrutinize the long term i mplications of organized retail in India. The government is geared up with the policy and the verdict has already been permitted by the cabinet it is only the matter of removing the finger from the pause button. In this backdrop the Objective of the study is: To discuss the present status and Policy Implications of FDI in Multi Brand Retailing. To Highlight the Major Controversies relating to FDI in Multi Brand Retailing in India. To Discuss the Challenges and Threats to the Foreign Retailers and Domestic Retailers. To provide various Suggestions to all the effected Players through approval of FDI in Multi Brand Retailing. To achieve the objectives of the study, the paper is divided into following sections: SECTION I, the present section gives an overview of FDI in Organised Retail in India followed by SECTION II which contains Review of Literature. SECTION III exhibits the Present Status and the policy implications of FDI in Multi Brand Retailing and also highlights the Major Controversies relating to FDI in Multi Brand Retailng.SECTION IV Highlights the views of the Indian Government and the Foreign Retailers on the Issue followed by SECTION V states the Challenges and Threats which all the Players may encounter with. SECTION VI provides some Suggestions and Recommendations on the matter and SECTION VII entails the Conclusion followed by SECTION VIII gives the details about the References used in the study. SECTION II: Review of Literature Reardon and Hopkins, 2006 Reardon and Berdegue, 2007 states that in underdeveloped countries Modern Retail arrived in Three Consecutive Waves. In the early hours of 1990s, the First Wave took place in South America, East Asia, China, North Central Europe and South Africa. The Second Wave took place in late 1990s in Mexico, Central Europe and Third Wave happened in the late 1990s and early 2000s in Africa, Central and South America, South East Asia, China India, Russia.They also state that the Third Wave Countries lagged behind due to the severe Foreign Policy on FDI in Retail Industry. China and Russia liberalized their FDI policy in 1990s and India did in early 2000s.In 2006, India sanctioned 51% in Single Brand Retail Joint Venture, but Multi Brand was still in debate at that time too.Koshy, Joseph, Partner, Joseph and Joseph law office describes in their article, FDI in Retail Sector, 2006 that Indian government has permitted FDI in several sectors but FDI in retail has been in de bate in the country as it had been opposed by many State Government and Leftist. According to Report, Corporate Hijack of Retail-Retail Dictatorship Vs Retail Democracy by Navdanya/Research foundation for Science, Technology and Ecology, the entry of Giant Corporations like Wal-Mart etc in the Indian Retail Industry will have undeviating impact on 650 million Indian farmers. A Report (Oligopoly Tnc, 2005, the ETC group) states that the main energetic forces in the Food Retail Sector are the Cut Throat Antagonism and Global Integration. If Giant Retail chains get footing in India, it will lead to disarticulation of small retailers and farmers.Dr Mandeep Singh, Associate Prof of Economics, The Earth Institute of Colombia University states in his article FDI in retailing in india, 2010, that the entry gate of FDI regime should be in phased manner as household retailers need adequate time period to adjust changes and compete with global retail giants. A publication by ICT by IANS, Thein dian.com co. ltd, 2010 reveals the view point of heads of various Giant Retailers.FDI in Multi Brand Retailing: Time to expand the Horizons by Parekh, Paresh, Mumbai Agency, DNA, 2010 states that it is necessary to differentiate the Foreign Financial Institutions and Foreign Retailers for permitting FDI as Foreign Financial Institutions bring right talent and know how along with the capital which may be more pertinent to the profitable business in the sector. It also argues that Indian organised retailers may require finance for private equity than a premeditated alliance with foreign retailers. It further predicts that it is worth debating whether to place conditions before permitting FDI like rural employment creation, mandatory investment in back end infrastructure.Mukherjee and Patel,2005 reveal in their study that FDI through organised retailing have optimistic effect on the Indian industry in form of easy access to finance and global best practise through joint ventures Joseph and N sundarrajan,2009(the Indian council for research on international economic relations,ICRIER)in their study that only 17% of small shops were shut down due to competition from organised retailing. Through adoption of better business practise and technology, domestic retailers have competed effectively in opposition to organised retail. There has been an optimistic spill over effect on the Indian economy as its possession advantages get dispersal to household enterprises, thereby enhancing their productivity. SECTION III: Present Status of FDI in Multi Brand Retailing in India and the Major Controversies relating to it and its Policy Implications. 1. Present Status and Proposal as finalised by Indian Government Indian government has opened Indian economy for global players as a part of an accord with World trade organisation (WTO) and also cheering foreign direct investment into the territory. After allowing 100% FDI in Single Brand Retailing, in 2011, UPA Government has allowed the decision of FDI in Multi Brand Retailing. The following proposal has been finalised by the government on this controversial issue: Government has legalized up to 51% of foreign direct investment (FDI) in multi brand retail trade. Fresh agricultural produce including fruits, vegetables, flowers, grains, pulses, fresh poultry, fishery, meat products etc may be unbranded. Minimum amount of US $ 100 million is to be brought in by foreign retailers. Out of the total amount brought in by foreign retailers at least 50% shall be invested in the back end infrastructure i.e. towards processing ,manufacturing ,distribution ,design improvement, quality control, packaging, logistic etc. At least 30% of manufactured or processed products shall be procured from small domestic industries by the foreign retailers which have the total investment not exceeding US $ 1 million (without providing depreciation). Retail stores shall be established only in cities with population of more than 10 lakhs as per 2011 census and shall also cover area of 10 kilometres around the municipal/urban agglomeration limits of such cities. 2. Controversies relating to FDI in Multi Brand Retailing Many Opponent political parties mainly BJP and Trinamool Congress have strongly protested against this decision. The most inopportune part is the UPA Governments validation of execution actions to be kept invulnerable from parliamentary approval. Quit FDI Day was observed on 9th august, 2012 to protest against FDI in multi brand retailing by staging dharnas. According to Praveen Khandelwal, Secretary General of Confederation of All India Traders, foreign investments by global giant retailers would lead to closure of small business and lakhs of people will be jobless. He further added that its highly undemocratic if Government will form an accord without traders assent. This issue have been encircled by number of controversies. The predicament arises whether opening up of FDI in multi-brand retail will build problems or endow with opportunities to local retailers. There is no appropriate response and apparent views have been seen in the favour and against FDI in multi-brand retailing. Some of the controversies are listed below: Figure 2 1. Do India really need foreign retailers? ACTUALITY: Indian economy is small with restricted superfluous capital and is already in force on budget deficit. India need trillions of dollars to build its infrastructure and other facilities, its simply not probable to back this expansion by domestic investors and Indian government, therefore international investment capital through FDI in obligatory. Apart from capital, Indian retail industry also call for knowledge and global amalgamation which can only be brought in by global retail leaders which can potentially unlock export markets for domestic farmers and producers. 2. Entry of Foreign Retailers in Multi Brand retailing will impact Indian Agrarian Community? 3. Entry of Giant Retailer will result in Shutting down of independent stores leading to enormous job losses, only few jobs would be created but millions will be vanished? ACTUALITY: Instead of job losses, retail reforms are likely to bring gigantic advancement in the Indian jobs as organised retail will call for workforce then millions of additional jobs will be formed during the building of and the maintence of retail stores,roads,cold storage centres, software industry and other retail supporting organisations.Walmart alone would employ 5.6 million citizens if it swell in India as much as their charisma in the USA and also if the staffing level is reserved at the same level as in the US stores. The accepted jobs in prospect Indian organised retail would total over 85 million. 4. Foreign players may practise dumping, get competition out of the way as they may become monopoly and raise prices? ACTUALITY: Since 30 years, over 350 global retail companies like Wal-Mart, Carrefour, Tesco, Coop etc with annual sales over $ 1 billion have operated in several countries. Competition between Wal-Mart like retailers has set aside food prices in check. Country like Canada credits its near to the ground inflation rates to Wal-Mart outcome. Price inflation in such countries has been 5-10 times lesser than price inflation in India. The consumer price inflation in Europe and US is less than 2% in comparison to Indias double digit Inflation.Anti- Trust Laws and State Regulations like in Indian penal code have prevented Food Monopolies all over the world. 5. Indians will work hard and foreigners will reap profits? ACTUALITY: With execution of 51% FDI limit in Multi Brand Retailing, just about half of the returns will remain in India as profits will be subject to taxes which will trim down the Budget Deficit of Indian Government. Eventually, retail companies will get returns all the way through hard work and by creating value. 6. Will Giant Retailers be able to avoid Pollution in terms of Carbon Footprints? ACTUALITY: This question has mix response as India is already reeling with managing environmental crisis. India would not be able to avoid polluting more with the advent of large scale retail chains in India and it would make even harder to meet global norms. According to a survey, the Net GHG( Green House Gas) emission of 2005 of major Retailers -Wal-Mart, Carrefour, Tesco collectively was about 20 million metric tonnes which is corresponding to the 80 most polluting countries in the world. SECTION IV: Views of the Major Players 1. What Indian Government say on FDI in Multi Brand Retailing? Inspite of lot of strong opposition on FDI in multi brand retailing, Indian government has been trying to counterfeit an accord on this extremely contentious issue, but several states still remain opposed to this idea. Till now only 10-11 Indian states and union territories like Delhi, Uttrakhand, Manipur, and Rajasthan etc have supported the centres decision to permit FDI in Multi Brand Retailing. Delhis Chief Minister, Shiela Dikshit stated that FDI in Multi Brand retailing will benefit the Indian economy in many ways. She further states that this proposal would help in improving infrastructure, reduce waste, minimize the role of middlemen, reduce food inflation, stabilize prices, improve Agro Commodities management address gaps relating to post harvest infrastructure. The Indian Government need FDI to meet its foreign exchange requirements and government also believes that only global retailers can satisfy the rising and varied demands of Indian consumers.FDI in Multi Brand Retail ing would improve the Agricultural Marketing, Revenue to the Government could also increase as large portion of Indian sector is unorganised and has low tax compliance. Profound FDI in the Multi-Brand Retail sector will upshot in gainful employment opportunities in agro-processing, sorting, marketing, logistics management and front-end retail management. In the next three years, minimum 10 million jobs will be produced in the retail sector. It will assist farmers to get prices over the MSP by omitting manipulative middlemen. MNC Retailers and Foreign Retail Giants will make certain supply chain efficiencies for incessant supply of the products. Policy to make an urge for investing minimum of $100 million and out of which at least half the amount must be invested in back-end infrastructure, including cold chains storages, refrigeration, transportation, packing, sorting and processing which would definitely help in condensing post-harvest losses and costs. A condition to acquire minim um of 30% of goods from Indian micro and small industry will promote domestic manufacturing, thereby creating a manifold outcome for employment, technology up gradation and income creation. At the World Economic Forum 2012 in Davos, Indias Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma told Wal-Mart president Doug McMillon and Metro board member Frans Muller that Indias resolution to put foreign direct investment (FDI) in multi-brand retail on hold was just a pause strained by opposition. He further stated that the government is committed to take forward the reform agenda as the Indian retail market has massive scope for growth and development but many Indian retailers face a crunch in terms of financial support and supply chain management.So foreign players can come in and help them. He also said that FDI in multi brand retailing will not only improve the quality of goods but it will also enhance competitiveness. He also made a statement that no state will be forced to put into practi ce FDI in Multi Brand retailing.Uttrakand Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna also favoured FDI in Multi Brand retailing saying that availability of Cold Storages and Proper Marketing Facilities will reduce the damage to the Agri-Horticulture-Organic produce which would ultimately result in increase in the income of rural farmers. The Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Mr Montek Singh Ahluwalia also totally favours opening up of the sector for FDI. Apart from Trinamool Congress the idea of FDI in multi brand retailing has been opposed by many other ministers and political parties. Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jyotiraditya Scindia stated his view to the Rajya Sabha in written that without adequate safeguards FDI in multi-brand retail will lead to prevalent disarticulation and poor treatment of Indian workers in retail, logistics, agriculture and manufacturing. A written petition has been filed by Vandana Shiva, an NGO activist, in the Delhi High Court alleging that Bharti Wal-Mart and Bharti Retail are directly and indirectly carrying out retail trading in multi-brand in contravention of the FDI policy.BJP is also opposing entry of Foreign Direct Investment in multi-brand retail in the country on the ground that it will be an injustice to small traders.BJP leader LK Advani also said that sanctioning foreign brands to do retail trade in India is an injustice to retailers as it leave many small traders jobless.BJP P resident Nitin Gadkari stated that the countrys economic condition is in a sorry state because of UPA governments erroneous economic policies, crooked practices and visionless leadership. Former BJP National President Rajnath Singh claimed that, If FDI is introduced in retail sector; it will break the backbone of Indian economy. According to Mr Viren Shah, President of Federation of Retail Traders Welfare Association and Mr B.C. Bhartia, National Federation of All India Traders, with the Entry of Global Giant Retailers into Multi Brand Retailing, the interests of the small retailers would be compromised. 2. What Foreign Retailers say on FDI in Multi Brand Retailing? The President and CEO of Wal-Mart International, Mr Doug McMillon said at the World Economic Forums Annual Meeting that FDI in Multi Brand Retailing will not impact the fortunes of small shopkeepers. He further stated by giving an example that after 20 years of retail business in Mexico,50% of retailing in Mexico is still done informally and fear of shutting down of independent and kirana stores is overstated. He also admitted that operating in India would pose challenges due to Regulations and High Real Estate prices in India. According to the CEO of US based Discount Department FDI in Multi Brand Retailing will help address inflation concerns for consumers as well as it will benefit the farmers in India. SECTION V: Challenges and Threats to the Players Retail industry is the second largest employer in India and has remarkable growth potential and on the other hand foreign players have deeper pockets, ability and are in need to invest constantly to enlarge. In economies like china and japan,the retail industry are slowly reaching towards saturation point and many retailer are confronting increasing margin pressures.Therefore,global giant retailers are attracted towards developing economies like India which is mounting at a hasty velocity. Global retailers are interested to invest in India due to increasing urbanisation and favourable consumer base.FDI in multi brand retailing will generate employment opportunities, income, technology transfer and economic stability but still there are several factors like government regulations, lack of ample infrastructure and inadequate investments are the probable bottlenecks for retail companies. It may pose advantages as well as challenge for domestic retailer, foreign retailers and also for th e Indian government. Therefore some of the challenges and threats are listed below in this context. FDI in Multi Brand retailing may lead to large scale disarticulation of employed in retail sector due to unfair competition which may eventually result in mass departure of domestic retailers. The domestic retailers may not be able to endure in the ex-parte competition as the Indian retail sector especially organised is in an embryonic stage. The existing firms may mislay their self competitive potency if they join forces with global biggies. Any MNC going to set up a multi-brand retail store across India will have to countenance vast licensing obligations in each state of its operation which could be a major obstacle in the way of FDI in multi-brand retail, they will have to get approval for investment as well from the central regulatory authority which, at present, is the Foreign investment promotion Board (FIPB). The foreign players may encounter Red-Tapism as prior to investment approval their application has to pass through various transfer channels which is highly subjugated by bureaucrats resulting in impediment in decision making leading to disinterested corporate giants. Although there are number of anti-corruption cells and acts in India but still corruption could be a major obstacle for foreign investors. No doubt there is availability of cheap labour in India but most of them are unskilled therefore foreign investors may require to provide training and development to them to administer advance retail chains. In 2008-10, rigorous financial damage was caused to investors worldwide due to inflation but Indian economy remained modest affected because of partial open economy. But FDI in multi brand retailing would escort to persistent threats due to revolution in business cycles of global partners. Today India already has foreign debt, trade deficit and current account deficit which mean nearly all resources and transactions in India are owned or financed by Foreign Nations resulting in killing of Indian rupee due to Foreign Currency influence which can be witnessed in Rising Commodity Prices, Rising Fuel Prices and Rising Debts. FDI in retail may impact Indian small and medium Manufacturing sector which is already dented by China Products which will further them hurt. In current Inflation Stricken Economy, Indian Government need to be careful while permitting FDI in Muti-Brand Retailing as it fears to hurt the sentiments of Middlemen, Farmers and Owners of mom and pop stores. SECTION VI: Suggestions and Recommendations Being a controversial issue, no doubt Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Multi Brand Retailing is expected to transform the Indian Retail landscape in a noteworthy way. The global organised players would bring in the much needed investment that would incite the further growth of the sector which is particularly important for nourishment of some of the domestic retailers which lack requisite resources to ride out the storm during an economic slump. The technical know-how, global best practices, quality standards and cost competitiveness brought forth through FDI would portend well for the domestic players to harvest the necessary support to protract their growth. The infrastructure support would definitely help to improve the backend processes of the supply chain and enable to purge wastages and augment the operational efficiency.FDI in multi-brand retail would in no way imperil the employed in the unorganised retail sector. On the contrary, it would pilot to the conception of million s of jobs as substantial infrastructure capabilities would be needed to cater to the changing lifestyle needs of the urban Indian who is keen on allocating the disposable income. The numerous intermediaries would be restricted and the farmers would get to enjoy a bigger share of the pie. Despite of numerous advantages, this matter has been opposed by many political parties, small traders etc on certain grounds like it may have adverse impact on Agrarian Community, environmental issues, loss of jobs, creation of monopoly and so on. Political parties have opposed to this move pointing that it will be suicidal for small and marginal farmers and would affect thousands of traders in the sector.Hence, FDI in multi brand retailing is a conflicting and very sensitive matter, therefore the foreign retailers as well as the Indian government need to take rationale decision before implementing proposed reforms. So few suggestions and recommendations are listed below in this regard: The first basic step needed for reforming Indian retail sector is providing it an industry status which will not only facilitate better financial processes but also enable prudent practices. Policy clarification is required to authorize giant global players which will augment the confidence of the foreign investors and the sector should be opened for giant firms in calibrated manner. A serious revision of the labour laws is required to strengthen the retail industry. All laws should be suitably changed and reasonably modified. The government should provide a Single Window Clearance System which will rationalize license process allied with the establishment and administration of retail stores and a uniform license regim can be implemented in all the states. The government can create retail and entertainment zones (REZ) similar to SEZ and necessary exemptions like stamp duty, octroi etc could be provided to foreign retailers operating within them which will help in reducing prices. A tax incentive in the form of 100% deduction on expenditure incurred on the employment of fresh personnel and weighted deduction for payment made by retailers towards training and development to their staff in order to improve their expertise can be allowed. This will help in promoting employment in the retail sector. Government must assist in creation of farmer coopera

Reflection on the understanding of Wound Aetiology

Reflection on the understanding of Wound Aetiology Whilst on Community placement, an event occurred which enabled me to reflect on how important it is to understand the aetiology of wound care in order to practice holistically when delivering care to patients. In order to assist the reflection process the Gibbs (1988) Reflective Cycle will be used which encompasses 6 stages; description, thoughts and feelings, evaluation, analysis, conclusion and action plan which will help me to continually develop and improve my nursing skills and knowledge through evidence based learning whilst developing my self confidence in relation to caring for others (Siviter 2008). To maintain confidentiality and comply with the NMC Code of Conduct (2008) all names have been changed. Description My mentor and I had visited a patient, who will be known as Mary (NMC 2008) in her own home. Mary is an elderly lady, who lives alone and had been suffering with chronic leg ulcers for a number of months which had not shown any signs of improvements for a number of months. The purpose of the visit was to take down the existing dressings, assess any improvement or deterioration in the wounds and to treat and redress the wounds in accordance with the current care plan. As predicted there was no significant improvement in the wound. Therefore I debrided the wounds, applied an emolument and redressed with NA dressings, gauze and applied a 4 layer bandage which is recommended in the study by ( ) under the supervision of my mentor. After leaving a patients house my mentor and I discussed the visit and talked about the importance of not just treating the obvious problems but taking an holistic approach. During this discussion my mentor asked me to assess Marys nutritional status and if required talk to her about the importance of healthy eating and the positive implication it may have on wound healing during our next visit. Thoughts and feelings I have always been interested in the importance of nutrition in respect of health and was had a vague aware that it had an effect on wound healing. (DH 2010). As we visit a number of patients with chronic leg ulcers I thought it would be a great advantage if I understood the aetiology of wound healing and what effect nutrition had on the process, I also felt that if people could be empowered to improve their nutritional status and maximise to maximise their healthy outcomes then this would be a very powerful tool. Although there are many factors wound fail to heal and a holistic approach should be taken. This assignment will focus on wound healing and nutrition. Evaluation I felt empowered that I could affect peoples health in providing quite simplistic knowledge in terms of health promotion to people and was able to deliver holistic care to mary in accordance with the NMC code of professional conduct (2008). If Mary had been given information sooner on the effect good nutrition may have on her would healing then she may be in a position where her legs would have been improved sooner. Analysis There are many definitions of a chronic would with one of the simplest perhaps being described by as a skin defect persisting longer than 6 weeks or frequent recurrence of the defect. Wounds, especially chronic wounds are amongst the major unresolved medical problems which can affect quality of life and are a significant burden on health care costs (Thomas 2006). In the UK, there are around two hundred thousand suffering from chronic wounds at any one time. The healthcare cost for these patients is estimated to be  £2.3- £3.1 billion per year (Posnett and Franks 2008). Infection, poor nutrition and impaired organ function are the main reasons many wounds fail to heal (Johnson et al 2005). However to optimise effective wound healing a holistic approach should be taken and therefore these reasons should not be reviewed in isolation. The process of wound healing is a series of cellular and biochemical events which can be categorised into three stages of inflammatory, proliferative and maturation. The healing process is complex; these stages can often overlap and result in the healing process moving forwards and backwards in response to various factors (1). Whilst a wound is healing there is a significant increase in cell proliferation, protein synthesis and enzyme activity which demands energy which would normally be released from protein reserves and energy stores (1). The body mainly uses glucose to provide this energy during cellular activity such as protein synthesis, cell division and secretion (Bray et al 1999). When body tissue is damaged the hypothalamous responds by releasing the stresss hormone catecholamines which in turn increases the bodies glucose levels (Morrison et al 1999).   Evidence suggest that wounds can increase the bodys metabolism which, if not addressed will result in weight loss, a particular problem with elderly people (Lal et al 200- and DeSanti 2000). Clark 2002 also states that a lack of sufficient energy sources can inhibit wound healing resulting in body fat being broken down and used as a substitute for glucose to assist the healing process. Morrison et al (1999) also confirms that inadequate nutrition can reduce the effect of the systemic response and consequently delay the wound healing process. (1). Landsdown (2004) says that although wound healing is an individual process which varies from patient to patient due to factors such as age, sex, health status, socioeconomic, racial and geographical influences, correct identification and treatment of chronic wounds is paramount to successful would healing. What is agreed is by many that to promote the best possible wound healing opportunities the body will demand energy and requires nutrients for proliferation and maintenance (sev references). Nutrition is recognised as the cornerstone of good health by the World Health Organization (WHO) and The National Service Framework for Older People highlight nutrition as an important area for nurses to assess properly, observe for malnutrition and taking action, such as advice and support if nutritional requirements are inadequate ( DH 2001). There are many studies which have concluded that nutrition plays an important part in the process of wound healing. In particular many acknowledge the link between the inflammatory stage and nutrition (Sobotka and Meguid 2010). Many chronic wounds remain in the inflammatory stage. Casey (2003), states that the healing process can be prevented or significantly delayed when patients diet does not contain essential nutrients. Brown et al (2010) agrees with this and suggests that whilst nutritional requirements vary between patients a lack of adequate nutrients cause delayed wound healing. However, there is much research to show that nutrition is crucial in a holistic approach to wound healing(Todorovic 2002).  According to Bryant (2000) the importance of adequate nutrition for good wound healing should not be  underestimated. Williams and Leaper (2000) concur stating that whereas good nutrition facilitates healing, malnutrition delays, inhibits and complicates the process. If a patients nutritional status is compromised, and they are unlikely to meet their requirements for recovery (Collier, J., 2006) However Sobotka and Meguid (2010) point out there is still a lack of sound wound healing studies due to a number of reasons such as design and execution, and lack of full understanding of the pathphysiology of wound aetiology and understanding of the more complex wound healing issues. They also suggest there are many rituals and myths surrounding wound healing which delays the process and affects the advances and progress of wound healing therapies. Nutrition deficiencies have been found in some patients with wounds. However, evidence suggests nutrition is not an exact science in relation to wound healing and is relatively unexplored Protein, vitamins and some amino acids are all important factors in the effectiveness of wound healing. Proteins are the mainstay for tissue growth, cell renewal and repair. They have a significant impact many stages of the wound healing process. Continuous protein malnutrition compromises the immunity system and has a detrimental effect on the skin which becomes thinner and wrinkled (Brown et al 2010). In particular Vitamin B is found in meat, dairy, vegetables and fish and cereals. Vitamin b helps to promote cell proliferation, maintain health skin and muscle tone, support and increase metabolic rate and enhance immune and nervous system functions and therefore deficiencies in this vitamin can hinder wound healing (Landsdown 2004). Studies have shown that elderly patients with chronic wounds have consumed less than two-thirds of the recommended daily allowance for vitamin B. Paragraph on amino acids The elderly in particularly can become nutritionally vulnerable. 30% are at a high risk of being malnourished in the UK and a further 70% at moderate risk. Malnutrition is a major cause for concern in elderly people, whether they are hospitalised or live in the community. It is important for nurses to be aware that sub-optimal nutrition has a detrimental effect on the bodys ability to heal wounds. Nutritional deficiency also impacts on a persons well being such as muscle function, immune response, respiratory function, rehabilitation and mental status (Kirshbaum 2009). There are many reasons older people suffer with malnutrition which include decreases appetite, psychosocial factors such as isolation and depression, impaired cognition, teeth and chewing problems, help with eating, poor positioning and acute illnesses which effect gastrointestinal absorption and requires higher nutritional input (Harris 2004). During short periods of starvation the body can lose 60-70 grams of protein. However severe trauma or sepsis can increase this loss to 150-250 grams per day (Wild et al 2010). To compensate for this loss, in addition to regular food intake, nutritional supplements containing protein and energy are often prescribed which would seem a logical way to replenish nutrients and supply additional nutrients to aid wound repair(Wild et al 2010) (Schols J et al 2009). However Brown et al (2010) states nutritional supplements in the context of wound healing is a relatively unexplored area suggesting this may be because nutrition is not an exact science. To further add to this argument Krishbaum (2009) says that detailed information on supplements and their ability to help with wound healing is not available. Williams and Barbul (2003) confirms that controversy surrounds the area of wound care and nutritional supplements. A patients nutritional requirements are a fundamental aspect in the provision of holistic care and it is important for nurses to consider this when carrying out a nursing assessment to formulate a wound management plan. Together with other health professionals it is the nurses responsibility to gain knowledge in nutritional support to be able to offer help and advice and if necessary counsel undernourished patients in ways to improve their diet (Johnstone et al, 2005).. According to  (Hopkins, 2001)  nursing assessments, particularly of wounds, can be inclined to concentrate on physical aspects of wound management, for example the use of appropriate dressing and infection control. This was also evident from  observation and participation of practice nursing work experience. There is evidence that poor nutritional status adversely effects wound healing (Haydock and Hill, 1986), delays healing and increases the risk of wound dehiscence (Ruberg, 1984), and that dietary intervention can improve or accelerate wound healing. Conclusion Nutrition is important in wound healing although it is impractical to consider nutrients in isolation, several nutrients appear particularly important for wound healing. Proteins and amino acids are vital for tissue growth, renewal and repair after injury. Several studies have found deficiencies in various wound patients. Most studies have been small in size and of short duration. From the research many of the info has come from America and not so much been done in the UK. However, I still think that the importance of nutrition is still a vastly underestimated and ignored issue in primary care, not just my general practice. I at the beginning of this module knew little about nutrition and healing and feel that perhaps other health professionals could become better informed. On reflection incorporating teaching sessions for other healthcare staff may have addressed this concern. I intend to now keep myself informed of advances in nutrition and healing and continue to assist patients and colleagues understanding. From the perspective of a General Practice Nurse (GPN) it was considered that they may be ideally suited to act as facilitator to aid nutritional assessment and education of those in the practice population with wounds. Assessment Action Plan I am still going to visit this lady twice a week and am going to ask at each visit if she is still eating healthily and what she has had to eat and offer simple suggestions in ways to eat food which will promote her wound healing, which in turn should improve her lifestyle. And I am going to look for other opportunities to teach and promote health whilst clinically treating patients.

Hemp: The Earths Greatest Plant :: essays research papers

Hemp: The Truth About the Earth's Greatest Plant   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In a perfect world there would be a product that could serve as a fuel source, a food source, a paper source, a textile source, and this product would be easy to produce in any of its forms. Believe it or not such a product does exist; it is the plant known as hemp. No tree or plant species on earth has the commercial, economic, and environmental potential of hemp. Over 30,000 known products can be manufactured from hemp.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Hemp was a common crop grown in the U.S. until 1937 when it was unjustly banned. A common misconception about hemp is that it was banned because it was a widely abused, harmful drug. Hemp was banned because it was a competitive threat to the wood industry. Corporations that profited from the demise of hemp spread rumors that marijuana was a major drug problem, which it was not at the time. They also propagated a campaign that it was a drug that induced uncontrollable violence, another complete falsehood.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Hemp is the plant scientifically known as cannabis sativa. It is referred to as hemp when it is grown for its fibers, stem, and seeds. Its leaves and flowers produce the drugs marijuana and hashish. However, sterile breeds of the plant are still illegal to grow in the U.S. Literally millions of wild hemp plants grow throughout the entire Midwest today. Wild hemp, like hemp used for industry purposes, is useless as an intoxicant. Yet U.S. drug law states that one acre of this can result in the owner being sentenced to death. The death penalty exists for growing one acre of perfectly harmless, non-intoxicating weeds!   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Hemp can produce any product that paper can produce. The difference is that one acre of hemp can produce four times as much paper as one acre of trees ( a study done by the U.S. Department of Agriculture). Also, a crop of trees takes twenty to fifty years to be ready for harvest where hemp is ready to harvest four times as much in just a year. In addition, hemp produces twice as much fiber per acre as cotton. Twenty five percent of all pesticides in the world are used on cotton, averaging to four pounds of chemicals per acre of cotton in the U.S. every year. Since hemp is a natural repellent to weeds and insects, it needs almost no insecticides or herbicides. If it were substituted for cotton it could greatly reduce the pesticide usage. Again, hemp can produce anything cotton can and what's more it can produce it better.

Of Mice And Men - The Importance Of George :: essays research papers

Even from the very start of John Steinbeck’s novel, Of Mice and Men, the uniqueness of George, as a character, is already noticeable. He is described as â€Å"small and quick, dark of face, with restless eyes and sharp strong features† and has an obvious dominance over the relationship between Lennie and himself. This lets the reader know from a very early stage in the book that George is different, and probably the essential character. George’s character seems to be used by Steinbeck to reflect the major themes of the novel: loneliness, prejudice, the importance of companionship, the danger of devoted companionships, and the harshness of Californian ranch life. George’s relationship with Lennie has made him selfless; his conversations, with and with out Lennie, are generally revolving around Lennie, although in the case of their dream-ranch George seems to find fulfilment for himself as well. Due to these altruistic tendencies that he shows throughout the novel, a danger is bestowed upon George; he tends to care for Lennie far too much, and too little for himself. In occasional moments, he escapes his sympathy and compassion for Lennie, and realises the burden that he causes. This usually results in George taking his frustration out on Lennie, which can often harm his simple mind, leaving Lennie upset and forced to confess to his own uselessness, and George feeling guilty for what he has caused. We can learn very little about George through his actual conversations, which made it necessary for Steinbeck to focus the novel on him in particular, and let the reader gain an closer insight on him through his actions. Generally, he seems t o be caring, intelligent and sensible, but is greatly worn by the constant attention Lennie requires. This illustrates a major theme in Of Mice and Men, the dangers that arise when one becomes involved in a dedicated relationship. Despite the frustration that Lennie causes, without him George would probably be a lot like the other men on the ranch; simply roaming the country-side of California looking for work, and although he often prides himself on being different, he sometimes complains, usually after Lennie has caused trouble, and wishes that he could be like a normal guy and not have to live with Lennie’s hindrance. An example of this is seen when George responds sharply to Lennie's constant request for ketchup. "If I was alone I could live so easy†¦no trouble†¦no mess at all.

A Comparative Essay between “Disabled” and “An Unknown Girl” Essay

Moniza Alvi reflects on India as her hand is hennaed by â€Å"an unknown girl† â€Å"in the evening bazaar†. The predominantly upbeat mood of this poem contrasts with the pessimistic mood in â€Å"Disabled† written by Wilfred Owen, a soldier in the First World War, stating his anti-war view through a poem on the life of a young soldier â€Å"sewn short at elbow†, crippled by war. In his poem, the difference between past and present allows Owen to reveal the regret and disappointment felt by the persona whereas, although Alvi portrays India as a magical, beautiful place where she experiences freedom, the ending reveals she will never be completely included. As such both poems illustrate longing but Alvi is longing for her identity whereas Owen is longing for his past life. To begin with, there is a difference in mood between â€Å"An Unknown Girl† and â€Å"Disabled† as Alvi creates an optimistic mood whereas Owen creates a predominantly depressing mood. Owen creates this by suggesting a theme of isolation felt by the persona which is implied in the first stanza when Owen says â€Å"mothered them from him†. The word â€Å"mothered† has caring, kind connotations but when used with â€Å"from†, it implies that he is not given the love and is actually an outcast which creates a strong negative mood as we can feel his seclusion. Similarly, â€Å"Espirit de corps† is said in an ironic tone which emphasises the fact that he is an outcast and that war does not leave you with glory or pride. This inspires pathos as everything has been taken away from him and he is no longer included, an idea which is further emphasised by the iambic pentameter in the first stanza, communicating the dull monotony of his life due to the isolation as he has no one to share anything with. Finally, the question at the end of the poem â€Å"Why don’t they come?† shows that he is literally waiting for someone to â€Å"put him into bed† as he is not able to do this himself. We can tell that he is waiting for night and the cyclical routine that repeats each day although he could be waiting for death as he has â€Å"a few sick years in Institutes† left which creates a powerful sorrow as he is still young. As this is the end of the poem, we are left with the image of him isolated and abandoned which is very striking. Owen further creates the pessimistic mood by suggesting the disappointment and lack of pride the persona has been left with after the war. Owen declares â€Å"no fears of Fear came yet† describing the persona before the war which groups all the fears and makes them seem overwhelming. This may suggest the persona is afraid of being a coward as he must appear strong and the personification of â€Å"Fear† makes him seem weak inside. This is emphasised by the use of â€Å"yet† as the persona now feels these fears after the horror of war. Later in the poem, the long stanza of hopes such as â€Å"For daggers in plaid socks; of smart salutes; And care of arms† contrasts with the short stanza for reality such as â€Å"Only a solemn man offered him fruits† revealing that his hopes for war were not met and he has been left with very little. This contrast is emphasised by the reaction of the people as he is â€Å"thanked† by â€Å"a solemn man† showing us that this â€Å"pity† makes him feel mocked. A miserable mood is portrayed as he has not received the celebratory â€Å"cheer† or â€Å"giddy jilts† he was expecting instead men â€Å"inquired about his soul† which portrays that the persona feels that these â€Å"cheers† are wrong therefore the man is making a mockery of him. The phrase â€Å"carried shoulder-high† depicts a glorious image to the reader as the persona recalls the excitement after a game of football. This excitement must have been similar to his expectations of war and when contrasted with the inglorious impression of life during and after war, the reader once again is forced to feel the sorrow and regret felt by the persona as Owen has effectively provided us with images and emotions. Furthermore, the persona appears bitter about going to war as he says â€Å"Smiling they wrote his lie† indicating their deception as they dropped â€Å"hints for young recruits† which is an exaggerated glorious image which Owen portrays as a lie. â€Å"Smiling† gives this a sinister feeling which emphasises the fact that he has been tricked and lied to in a bitter, uncaring way. We feel pathos as we can feel how powerful his bitterness is. Alternatively, to create an optimistic mood in â€Å"An Unknown Girl†, Alvi creates a theme of the magic that surrounds her in India. The repetition of the word â€Å"hennaing† emphasises the fact that it is external and decorative like a â€Å"shadow-stitched kameez†. This implies a beauty and since both objects are traditionally Indian, Alvi shows the reader that this is the overwhelming impression of magic she feels in India. The repetition of the word â€Å"neon† appeals to the visual sense as well as making the image it is used to describe seem more extreme with brighter, more defined colours. It seems almost too bright and colourful which creates a surreal and dreamlike atmosphere which portrays to the reader how enthralled Alvi is by the beauty of India she is witnessing. By describing her hennaed hand as â€Å"soft as a snail trail†, Alvi creates a magical mood by showing her astonishment. The word â€Å"soft† makes us feel comforted which is what the persona feels when in India. The sibilance in â€Å"soft† and â€Å"snail† creates a mysterious feeling which contrasts to the beauty of India, creating the longing Alvi feels for her identity. This is effectively emphasised by the childlike innocence portrayed to the reader through the words â€Å"balloons† and â€Å"icing†. In general, balloons are vividly coloured and could be used to symbolise the happiness and colour in the persona’s surroundings. The connotations we associate with â€Å"icing† are sweet and decorative which strongly suggests the happiness that Alvi is trying to portray. A â€Å"bazaar† is usually busy and crowded but Alvi foregrounds the colours and vibrancy to create a magical impression of the setting. This forces the reader to feel the magic Alvi is indicating. The image of a â€Å"peacock† is repeated as well as an â€Å"amber bird† which seems both magical and also beautiful and these are thing Alvi relates to India and the reader is forced to relate these as well. This is an intense image but could also be used to show that as a peacock can spread its tail, Alvi wishes to reveal a deeper truth about her identity. This very striking image is effective. Furthermore, the words â€Å"hushed†, â€Å"sleep† and â€Å"soft† subtly suggest to the reader the tranquil calm that Alvi feels while in India. This is contrasted with â€Å"firm† and â€Å"furious† to suggest exhilaration and happiness felt by Alvi as India has many different levels that we have been shown effectively throughout the poem. In contrast to the theme of isolation in â€Å"Disabled†, Alvi creates the impression of inclusion and reassurance that contribute to the upbeat mood. Alvi has written this poem to portray her search for personal identity as she was taken from her home in Pakistan while she was young so reassurance allows her to reconnect with the country of her heritage. The persona indicates her reassurance by creating a soft mood through the phrase â€Å"curtain cloth and sofa cloth canopy me† which is emphasised by the repetition of the word â€Å"cloth†. We also feel the inclusion Alvi is portraying as â€Å"canopy† gives the persona somewhere to hide and be protected so she is embraced. We feel this powerful yet soft inclusion throughout the poem. Alvi accents her inclusion with â€Å"I have new brown veins† as the verb â€Å"have† creates a tone of certainty. The implied pride allows us to feel that she does feel embraced by India and the reader feels embraced as well which allows us to join the lively mood. While having her hand hennaed, the persona depicts a â€Å"satin-peach knee† which relates to the skin or clothing of the Indian girl. The soft â€Å"s† sound in â€Å"satin† forces the reader to feel the calm, gentle atmosphere as well as depicting it as luxurious. Alvi implies that she relates these things to India which we then do and we feel a striking sense of her reassurance. Lastly the persona describes having her hand hennaed as â€Å"a peacock spread its lines† which shows that the India part of her identity is spreading itself too and she is becoming more at home. Although we do not feel at home, the reader can see the stunning beauty and can understand Alvi’s inclusion. Another difference in mood is the freedom created by Alvi contrasted with the dull gloom portrayed by Owen. Alvi displays a sense of freedom that originates from the beauty of India. There is no clear structure throughout the poem which to the reader may seem wild and chaotic but Alvi is powerfully trying to portray that this is part of her freedom. The short sentences create a fast pace which can be used to emphasise the emotion such as longing or desperation attached to longer sentences but also portrays a lively, excited feeling almost suggesting a sensory overload especially which is very effective as the reader too feels excited by the descriptions of India. The persona is trying to take in and communicate as much as possible. This is emphasised by the unequal line lengths which allows images such as â€Å"I am clinging† and emotions such as â€Å"are hushed† to be forced on the reader. These images and emotions are all subtly different as Alvi shows her freedom in India. The contrast between these further emphasises the freedom Alvi is portraying subtly. The dummies â€Å"tilt and stare† which contrasted with the dummies we consider normal creates the impression of disorganization which relates to all of India. Alvi feels this is her freedom and in this case, it is effective. On the other hand, Owen portrays the dull gloomy mood through the enjambment in the third and fourth line of the first stanza. It indicates how long the personas empty days are and is contrasted with the simple â€Å"play and pleasures† enjoyed by the young boys to create a dull atmosphere surrounding the lonely persona. This is very effective as the reader can feel this mood themselves. In the same stanza the phrase â€Å"saddening like a hymn† is used to create a gloomy atmosphere. In addition to the obvious connotations of saddening, Owens use of â€Å"hymn† suggests a solemn and mournful mood almost as though a part of him has died. By forcing the reader to feel these emotions, Owen has powerfully portrayed the persona’s melancholy. Due to his injury, the persona must now do what â€Å"the rules consider wise† which shows the persona no longer has freedom as â€Å"rules† have connotations of being strict which contrasts to the freedom and fun he experienced in the past. The word â€Å"wise† could also reflect on the fact that he has gained wisdom from the war due to bad decisions but this wisdom has come at the price of his happiness. This contrast shows the boring nature of his current life and the reader can feel his regret more powerfully with the image of his past happiness. The persona is described as wearing a â€Å"ghastly suit of grey† so the word â€Å"ghastly† forces the reader to think of a terrible image of the lonely man and then used with â€Å"grey† to make that image dull and lifeless. Overall this creates a gloomy visual image which is emphasised by the lack of emotion attached to the words creating an image which inspires sympathy from the reader. Finally Owen uses â€Å"shivered†, â€Å"cold and late† and â€Å"queer disease† to show how the despair is affecting the persona. He is literally cold although he may also feel cold inside as he has nothing left and is now isolated and alo ne. We can feel his sorrow which allows these words to effectively portray the dull mood to the reader. Owen also reveals a contrast inside â€Å"Disabled† as an alternate lively mood is portrayed in the past. The persona has â€Å"lost his colour† which is literally referring to the colour of his skin as he is now pale and he would have been flushed after playing football but additionally he has lost the bright glow of his youth during the war. The superficial meaning gives us a physical contrast between past and present but the alternate meaning allows the reader a glimpse at how his soul was affected. Owen distinguishes between this past excitement and the present day gloom. The persona is â€Å"waiting for dark† which is contrasted with the bright, colourful excitement felt in the past, portrayed in the second stanza. The word â€Å"waiting† implies that he is lonely because he has nothing left in his life which contrasts with â€Å"girls glanced lovelier† and romantic excitement from his past and is emphasised by the use of â€Å"dark† to suggest that he is waiting for night and the continuation of the cyclical routine that happens each day. The persona could also be waiting for death as this is a connotation of â€Å"dark†. These effective contrasts show his longing for the past and his dull life which inspires pathos from the reader. The reader also feels pathos because of the extreme contrast between past and present. Owen says â€Å"Town used to swing so gay† and the personification of â€Å"Town† gives it human emotions such as happiness that the reader is allowed to feel briefly. This creates a lively and upbeat mood in the past which is emphasised by â€Å"gay† but â€Å"used to† show the reader that this was in the past as it is written in past tense. This powerful contrast between past and present forces the reader to suffer the emotions the persona feels. Owen creates the impression of the excitement felt by the persona in the past through the contrast between leaving for war with â€Å"drums and cheers† and returning from war with â€Å"only a solemn man†. This contrast between his expectations and reality makes his past life seem exciting as he was popular but upon return, the persona feels bewildered by the lack of celebration. The difference between past and present shows us that this excitement was strong but short-lived and more pathos is inspired by that fact he feels pitied. Finally Owen says â€Å"Now, he is old;† which shows that the energetic past has gone. The word â€Å"old† is used to show that although his body is still young, the persona has physiologically aged and, in his current state, he is ancient. This contrast to his bright youth effectively makes us feel significant amounts of pathos. One of the main contrasts between these poems is within the theme of longing as Alvi portrays her persona longing for her identity whereas Owen suggests regret and longing for the past. Having been taken from her home whilst she was young, Alvi reveals that she longs for a home and to discover her personal identity in India through the repetition of â€Å"unknown†. Alvi implies that she needs to discover or recover the Indian part of her identity but additionally it is implied that she wishes to find her Indian blood so that she can reveal her full identity. This is powerful as we too feel the longing for her unknown identity and it is revealed further by the change in pace of â€Å"Now the furious streets are hushed† from fast to slow showing that she can’t hold onto the ever-changing India and her identity. This is emphasised by the use of â€Å"clinging† as this shows her desperation and the fact that India is constantly eluding her. This is very effective as we can feel her longing and have images to help. The â€Å"Dummies in shop-fronts† are described by Alvi using a tone of admiration illustrating a simple thing that clearly shows the intensity of her emotions and we too feel this intensity and passion for India. Lastly â€Å"float up† is implying a positive mood with â€Å"up† and a sense of freedom but it also shows that her identity keeps escaping and India keeps eluding her. Alternatively, Owen expresses the feeling of regret that comes from his longing which is emphasised by his realisation that his injury is his own fault although Owen depicts the persona’s anger towards the military which is similar to his own as Owen wrote most of his poetry whilst injured from war. Owen articulates â€Å"He thought he’d better join – He wonders why† and the pause after â€Å"he’d better join† shows that he is struggling to remember why he decided to fight in the war so therefore he is questioning his reasons. The phrase shows the insignificance of his reasons and leads to the persona regretting his decision. Similarly, the asyndeton in stanza five focuses on all the glorious things he briefly considered and indicates that he didn’t think about the effects of war, effectively portraying the impression of regret. Owen forces the reader to contrast the short time taken to make the decision with the lifetime he will have to suffer the consequences which evokes pathos as he does regret his choice. Owen describes the war as a â€Å"hot race† which provides a sense of chaos and disorder associated with the war by the reader. This gives the reader the strong feeling of exhilaration felt by the persona whilst fighting but the reader also gets the impression that this is different from the excitement and glory that the persona was expecting from war. This difference in emotion emphasises that the persona feels regret and the word â€Å"race† shows that although he will live with the consequences, the war was over quickly. This is very effective as we are forced to feel these emotions such as regret and exhilaration. The phrases â€Å"Poured away† and â€Å"threw away† show that the persona considers the choice he made wasteful sacrifice which emphasises the fact he feels regret for the foolish decision. The word â€Å"Poured† is foregrounded so he feels that he has done this to himself. This is very effective as we feel his regret strongly. Owen associates â€Å"giddy jilts† with going to war therefore showing that he was drunk and disorientated when he made the decision so he did it for foolish reasons and he now lives with regret. Ultimately the rhyme pattern that continues regularly throughout the poem could suggest that his decisions, made in the past, will carry on like the lines even after they have been made. Owen emphasises this regret by the longing created for the past. Owen contrasts â€Å"One time, he liked a blood smear† with the persona’s real injury to emphasis the fact that the persona is now â€Å"legless† but in those days he enjoyed the glorious side of injuries. This shows the powerful longing for the past but also indicates that the persona was more naà ¯ve in those days from the ironic tone. This is emphasised by â€Å"in the old times† as the tone is happy and warm but the use of â€Å"old† shows us that this was in the past and he no longer has these caring feelings. This illustrates the longing for the past although pathos is also created. The phrase â€Å"younger than his youth, last year† indicates that the persona wishes to have his past life back as his youth was the time of excitement and happiness and he no longer feels these things in the present. The pause shows he is struggling to compare the past and present which emphasises the fact the he wishes he could have his previous life back. This is a strong emotion and inspires much pathos from the reader. Finally the persona sees how the women’s eyes â€Å"Passed from him to the strong men that were whole† showing his longing for the past as he is comparing the way they look at him now to how they used to â€Å"glance lovelier†. This contrast shows how incomplete the persona feels as well as portraying to the reader that he is alone and deserted. This direct contrast between past and present allows the reader to feel precisely how strong the persona’s longing for the past is and how lonely he now feels. Although both Owen and Alvi both create an excited mood, there are different emotions created by the different types of excitement. The contrast between excitement and calm especially in the phrase â€Å"longing for the unknown girl in the neon bazaar† in â€Å"An Unknown Girl† allows Alvi to see both sides of India which makes her feel at home. The yearning showed by â€Å"longing† and â€Å"unknown† creates a calm atmosphere which is contrasted with â€Å"neon† to show both sides of India and give Alvi the feeling of her full identity. Alvi manages to force us to feel both the calm and excitement and we can almost feel the sense of belonging. In contrast, all the excitement in â€Å"Disabled† such as â€Å"he’d drunk a peg† and â€Å"he was drafted out† is used in the past tense which is then contrasted within the poem with the gloomy mood in the present to create a longing for the past and regret as well as the isolation of the persona. This inspires pathos as the images allow us to see how lonely the persona is and feel his regret. So therefore we can tell that the sensory overload that causes Alvi to feel such excitement and allows her to included in India contrasts with the past excitement making the persona in â€Å"Disabled† feel alone. But another way of looking at it is that this excitement pushes both persona’s away from the thing they desire; Alvi who desires to find her identity but is eluded due to the excitement in India and Owen who wishes for past enjoyment but now has a lack of vitality due to foolish excitement. However, one of the most striking differences between â€Å"An Unknown Girl† and â€Å"Disabled† is the persona’s choice and control of the situation. In â€Å"Disabled† Owen says â€Å"he asked to join† showing that not only was the persona given a choice but he chose to do the wrong thing although he was in control. This illustrates to the reader that it was the persona’s own fault and his decisions lead to his injury. He can’t blame the military for being â€Å"legless† although â€Å"smiling† and â€Å"lie† indicate his bitterness towards the commanders. Alvi portrays an image of the persona â€Å"hands outstretched† which shows that she is longing for this and is not in control although she is fighting from having her identity evade her again. She was not given a choice. This contrast makes Owen’s persona appear wasteful as he threw away his youth whereas Alvi has lost something she cares about. Alvi creates a subtle amount of pathos throughout the poem whereas we feel pathos for the persona in â€Å"Disabled† as he is having the realisation and it is already too late.

Short Speech about Discrimination Among Girl Child and Boy Child

Discrimination against girl children has been a topic of debate. It has been a subject of concern and sociological significance. This subject raises the cultural aspects about the role of a girl child in society, what her human rightsare as a human being and a number of sensitive issues. This issue is important because there is nearly universal consensus on the need for gender equality. Gender based discrimination against girl children is pervasive across the world. It is seen in all the strata of society and manifests in various forms.As per the literature, girl child has been treated inferior to boy child and this is deeply engraved in the mind of the girl child. Some argue that due to this inferior treatment the girls fail to understand their rights. This is more predominant in India as well as other lesser developed countries. Sex selection of the before birth and neglect of the girl child after birth, in childhood and, during the [teenage] years has outnumbered boys to girls in India and also in countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh and South Korea.There are 1029 women per 1000 men in North America   and 1076 women per 1000 men in Europenbut there are only 927 women per 1000 men in India. These numbers tell us quite a harsh story about neglect and mistreatment of the girl child in India. Women have a biological advantage over men for longetivity and survival, however, in spite of this there are more men than women. The figures above support that gender discrimination of girl child is a basic facility area.Though the demographic characteristics do not show much or in some cases, anti-girl bias, there is always a woman who receives a small piece of the pie. There are two main inequalities as pointed out by Amartya Sen, the educational inequality and health inequality, these are the indicators of a woman’s status of welfare. In India irrespective of the caste, creed, religion and social status, the overall status of a woman is lower than men and theref ore a boy child is preferred over a girl child.A boy child is considered a blessing and his birth is celebrated as opposed to a girl child where her birth is not celebrated and is considered more of a burden.   Therefore, [education] and health care of the girl child in India is an important social indicator to measure equality between men and women. According to the 2001 Indian census, overall boy-girl ratio was 927 girls per 1000 boys. However, the 2011 Indian census shows that there are 914 girls per 1000 boys.During the last [decade] the number girl children to boy children in the youngest age group fell from 945 per 1000 boys to 927 per 1000 boys. As per the data available there seems to be gender disparity depending on the location, as the Northern states(particularly Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh) seem to be more biased then the Southern states. The sharpest decline for the age group of zero to six years is observed in the Northern States particularly in Punjab (793 per 1000 girls) and Haryana (820 per 1000 girls).These new figures point out that the use of new technology contributes to the gender composition. Furthermore, the availability of and access to new technologies provides new ways for parent to achieve such goals of sex determination before birth.   Due to the widespread use of this technology the Indian Government banned the sex determination before birth.   In spite of these bans imposed by the Government, the law is not widely followed.A social development report presented in 2010 to the World Bank and UNDP, found that the time a girl child and a boy child spends on various activities is similar, with the exception of domestic work and social/resting time; a girl child spends nearly three forth of an hour more on domestic work than a boy child and therefore lesser hours of social activity/resting then boys.   Despite progress in advancing gender equity from a legal standpoint, in practice many women and girl children still l ack opportunities, and support for the socio-economic advancement.  Historically, the inclusion of young girls and women in education has helped challenge gender [stereotypes] and discrimination.   This suggests that providing space for young girls to develop leadership skills, through education and healthy living is important. This can shape attitudes towards women [capabilities] as leaders and decision makers especially in conventionally boy domains and boy dominated cultures. Because of the sex preference of boy children in India, girl children are deemed of resources in the areas of health and education.