Introduction to Right To Information Act, 2005

Every citizen has a right to know how the Government is functioning. Right to Information empowers every citizen to seek any information from the Government, inspect any Government documents and seek certified photocopies thereof. Some laws on Right to Information also empower citizens to official inspect any Government work or to take sample of material used in any work.

Right to Information includes the right to:

1. Inspect works, documents, records.

2. Take notes, extracts or certified copies of documents or records.

3. Take certified samples of material.

4. Obtain information in form of printouts, diskettes, floppies, tapes, video , cassettes or in any other electronic mode or through printouts.

"information" means any material in any form, including records, documents, memos, e-mails, opinions, advices, press releases, circulars, orders, logbooks, contracts, reports, papers, samples, models, data material held in any electronic form and information relating to any private body which can be accessed by a public authority under any other law for the time being in force.

"record" includes:

a) Any document, manuscript and file

b) Any microfilm, microfiche, and facsimile copy of a document

c) Any reproduction of image or images embodied in such microfilm (whether enlarged or not); and

d) Any other material produced by a computer or any other device;

An applicant cannot ask for opinions/advice/views under the RTI Act, unless the opinion/advice/view is already on "record".

However, under Section 4(1)(d), an applicant can ask for "reasons" behind a administrative or quasi judicial decision of a public authority, especially if he is a "affected person".

Information Source: RTI India

----------------------------------------------------

To view the entire content of Right To Information ACT 2005 online, visit this link: http://righttoinformation.gov.in/webactrti.htm

To download the Right To Information ACT 2005 in PDF format, visit this link: http://rti.gov.in/rtiact.htm

To download the circulars issued by GoI related with RTI Act 2005, visit this link: http://rti.gov.in/circulars/CircularReportForRTI.asp

More related links:

1. http://www.vakilno1.com/bareacts/rti-act/Right-to-Information-Act-2005.htm

2. http://www.rtiindia.org/forum/content/

3. http://www.righttoinformation.org/

4. http://rti.gov.in/

5. http://www.rti-act.com/

6. http://www.rti-ngo.org/

7. http://www.rti.net.in/index.htm

8. http://www.rtigateway.org.in/index.jsp

9. http://www.adhikaar.co.in/

ROLE FUNCTIONS AND SKILLS OF SOCIAL WORKER IN POLICY PROCESS

SAY NO TO FIRE CRACKERS

COME DIWALI and one can hear the sounds of firecrackers exploding from all directions. People of all age groups are fascinated with firecrackers, which form a prominent part of the Diwali celebrations. Firecrackers are known to cause air pollution as well as noise pollution and are extremely harmful for senior citizens and small children.

Pets such as dogs and cats also suffer on account of firecrackers as animals have a more sensitive sense of hearing than humans. It is important for each one of us to act as responsible citizens and discourage the use of firecrackers.

Firecrackers can cause hearing loss, high blood pressure, sleeping disturbances and sudden exposure to loud noise can cause temporary or permanent deafness or even result in heart attack. Nausea and mental impairment are also some of the side effects of firecrackers.

Karuna Mehta an environmental activist says, “Firecrackers should be banned as they cause a number of health hazards. People come down with all sorts of respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis. Air and noise pollution are also the side effects of firecrackers that are responsible for various injuries. The smog that is created on Diwali is responsible for a number of accidents due to reduced visibility.”

According to People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), a non-profit organization, awareness should be created for the masses. People need to understand that bursting firecrackers is not trendy anymore. It is important for the government to organize anti-firecracker campaigns and discourage people from bursting firecrackers. Parents as well as children should be educated on the harmful effects of firecrackers and environmental laws should be implemented strictly.

Observing that the ‘Right to Sleep’ is a fundamental right, the government of India has banned firecrackers between 10 pm and 6 am, on Diwali. The effect of this ban has been very positive and the sale of firecrackers has considerably gone down.

Anita Pal, a schoolteacher says, “It is important for children to understand that bursting crackers is harmful. We educate children before Diwali and discourage them from bursting firecrackers. We also ask them to educate their parents and relatives on the harmful effects of firecrackers as well as the dangers accompanying them.”

Diwali is the biggest festival of India and its sanctity should not be blown away in smoke. This festival of goodwill can be celebrated in a number of ways other than bursting firecrackers.

Let each one of us take a pledge this Diwali to say NO to firecrackers and invest in a safer and greener future. Diwali is the festival of lights and we must enlighten our lives with the sparkle of joy and goodwill, forget past grievances and look ahead towards a brighter and happier future.

Source: http://www.merinews.com/article/harmful-effects-of-firecrackers/127558.shtml 

Vacancy at Social Watch India

The National Social Watch Coalition is an attempt at a broad based network of civil society organisations, citizens and communities to build a process of monitoring governance towards professed goals of social development, particularly with respect to the marginalised sections of our country. As an attempt to check rhetoric against the real, it tries to monitor the institutions of governance and their commitment towards citizens and principles of democracy.

The Social Watch process is the collective response of a number of development organisations, social action groups, and citizens to ensure that there is a critical engagement with the process of governance. This is a part of the initiative to make democracy meaningful and participatory.

NSWC is currently seeking

1. Advocacy and Communication Officer

2. Networking Coordinator

1. ADVOCACY AND COMMUNICATION OFFICER / COORDINATOR

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. To broad base the coalition and to build the advocacy work of Social Watch including media and legislative advocacy.

2. To maintain and build strategic synergies and alliances with Media

3. To establish dynamic synergies with the legislators, policy makers, opinion makers etc

4. Updating programme and other information on Social Watch’s website

5. Monitoring web statistics and ensuring Search Engine Optimisation

6. Uploading articles, images, publications, audio files, videos etc

7. Compiling and distributing e-newsletter

8. Supporting the development and implementation of Social Watch's new media strategy

9. Helping to set up blogging functions and moderating blogs

10. Monitoring press coverage that is relevant to and covers Social Watch’s work and ensuring articles are distributed to relevant stakeholders

11. Maintaining press contacts database

REQUIREMENTS:

1. Masters degree required in development, media or other related fields

2. Good understanding of current policy trends and governance issues

3. Excellent skills for interacting with journalists, NGO representatives, government representatives and inter-governmental organisations

4. Strong organisational and multi-tasking skills with an ability to work in team

5. Demonstrated writing and editing skills; ability to draft clear and effective briefing papers,excellent communication skills; ability to work effectively in a multi-cultural work setting independently and productively in a fast-paced environment

6. Excellent computer skills and high proficiency in MS Word, Excel, E-mail, HTML, Proficiency in Microsoft Publisher, Power Point and Adobe

2. NETWORKING and RESEARCH COORDINATOR

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. To contribute a actively in the ongoing research

2. To build and strengthen Social Watch process in different states

3. To coordinate between state partners and the national secretariat

4. Organise meetings and workshops at the state and national level

5. Facilitate the state coalition members in the process of Report preparation, release and dissemination

6. To ensure the flow of information from the grassroots to the National secretariat

7. Help build the capacity of State Social Watch platforms to monitor the commitments undertaken by their governments and promote their active participation in the Social Watch Coalition

8. Encourage and support Social Watch state activities

9. Facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences among coalition members and between the latter and other civil society networks, government entities and inter-governmental bodies

10. Help develop the proposals of State coalitions to carry out activities related to Social Watch

REQUIREMENTS

1. Masters degree required in Social Sciences or other related Fields

2. Ability to work independently under minimum supervision

3. Excellent skills for writing and speaking in public

4. Capacity to prioritise goals and carry out multiple tasks

5. Experience in team work

6. Dynamism, independence and willingness to work in multicultural environments

7. Availability to travel frequently

8. Commitment to social justice, poverty eradication and gender equality and good understanding of current policy trends and governance issues

9. Fluency in English and Hindi (essential) in oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of other regional languages will be of immense help.

EXPERIENCE

Minimum of 3 (Three) years in their relevant field for both the positions

HOW TO APPLY:

Interested incumbents may send in their detailed resume and a cover letter (not more than 500 words) expressing their suitability for position(s) above at nationalsocialwatch@gmail.com on or before October 31st, 2010.

All the positions will be based at New Delhi

National Social Watch Coalition is an equal opportunity Employer. Women candidates are encouraged to apply. For more information visit www.socialwatchindia.net

Vacancy at Tamilnadu Vazhndhu Kaatuvom project

Tamilnadu Vazhndhu Kaattuvom Project is an empowerment and poverty alleviation project implemented by the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department of Government of Tamil Nadu with World Bank assistance. The project is being implemented across 2509 Village Panchayats in 70 Backward Blocks in 16 districts of the state. The Project interventions include financial inclusion and promotion of livelihood opportunities. Please visit http://vazhndhukaattuvom.org for more details.

Currently, the project is looking for motivated and dynamic persons for the post of District Project Manager to lead our District Project Management Units. The maximum age limit for the position is 45 years as on 01.07.2010. The salary package for the position is approximately 3.90 lacs per annum. The salary package consists of a consolidated monthly remuneration, travel allowances as per Grade I officer norms, car facility, travel and communication allowances, accident insurance cover, etc. 

Last date for applying for the above mentioned vacancy is given as 21st October 2010.

For a detailed Job Description, please visit www.sids.co.in/tnvkp

Green Peace action against 'Genetic Pollution'

Genetically engineered or genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are created by taking genes from organisms like bacteria or virus and inserting them into other, often unrelated, species like crops or animals. Since foods derived from GMOs are not natural, there are unpredictable health and environmental risks associated with these foods.

Bt brinjal, the first genetically modified food crop has been put on hold after serious objections were raised about the necessity and safety in the long run. Even though no GM food crop is commercially cultivated in India, more than 11 major food crops are undergoing field trials across the country, which threaten to contaminate our food chains, as do unchecked import of raw food grains.

Greenpeace believes that GMOs should not be released into the environment as there is not adequate scientific understanding of their impact on the environment and human health.

Watch the below given video:

To know more about GMOs, visit this site: http://greenpeace.in/safefood/faq/  

SCHOLARSHIP FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES

INVITATION OF APPLICATIONS FOR THE NATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (2010-11)

Applications (in English or Hindi) are invited by Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment latest by 30th September, 2010 in the prescribed proforma from the persons with disabilities to award the National Scholarships for the year 2010-11 for pursuing technical and professional courses from recognized institutions. Salient features of the scheme are:-

• 500 national scholarships will be awarded to eligible students with disabilities for the year 2010-11 for pursuing technical and professional courses from recognised Institution
• Financial Assistance can be given for computer with editing software for blind/ deaf graduate and post graduate students pursuing professional courses and for support access software for cerebral palsy students.
• Scholarship of Rs.1000/-p.m. for hostellers and Rs.700/- p.m. for day scholars studying in professional courses at graduation and above level, and Rs.700/- p.m. for hostellers and Rs.400/- p.m. for day scholars pursuing Diploma /certificate level professional. Course fee is reimbursed upto ceiling of Rs.10,000/- per year.

Details containing the eligibility conditions, the prescribed proforma for the application are available on website of Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Govt. of India “www.socialjustice.nic.in ”.

For further details, please visit website of NHFDC “www.nhfdc.org” or contact: NHFDC, Red Cross Bhawan, Sector-12, Faridabad-121007. Tel no. 0129-2226910, 2287512, 2287513 Fax-0129-2284371, e-mail-nhfdc97@gmail.com

Promoting Sustainable Development : Challenges for Environment Policy

With its geographic, climatic and biological diversity, India has a unique environmental heritage. The country represents almost all types of habitats of the world and the land mass of the country and its water bodies sustain an extremely rich variety of plants and animals. However, development based on intense utilisation of natural resources and polluting and energy intensive industrial technology along-with pressures of population and poverty have taken a heavy toll of these environmental assets over the years.

This Paper aims at reviewing the current state of the environment and identifying policy issues for promoting sustainable development. It is broadly divided into five sections :

Environment-economy linkages;

Review of our major environmental concerns;

The underlyingcauses of environmental degradation;

Discussion on policy response and current initiatives in this area; and

The challenges/issues in environment policy which have a bearing on promoting sustainable development.

To view the entire content, visit this link

Paper on Climate change policy for India

While the global environment waits for the world to reach some form of agreement on climate policy, developing countries such as India are entering a phase of higher economic growth. The decisions on investment in energy systems that will be made in India in coming years will have an important impact on global climate change over the coming century. This paper explores how action could be undertaken in India today, in a way that commits India to longer run goals for greenhouse emissions but does not raise the short run cost to the development process in India.

The approach proposed is a modification of the McKibbin-Wilcoxen Blueprint for climate policy which relies on establishing property rights and markets in both short term and long term emission permits. The goal is to encourage long term investment decisions to move towards less carbon intensive activities. This approach could be unilaterally implemented in India. If successful it would not only reduce Indian carbon emissions but it would be an example for the entire developing world to follow and it might remove a key obstacle preventing the United States from implementing policies based on the argument that developing countries are not committed to taking action to reduce greenhouse emission.

This paper outlines the recent history and prospects for carbon emissions in India. It also explores the various alternative economic instruments that might be used. The paper presents illustrative results for the consequences of a rise in the price for carbon in India based on a new version of the G-Cubed multi-country model that includes India. This simulation illustrates that an immediate increase in the price of carbon either through taxes or from entering a Kyoto style permit trading market could be very costly for India. Thus a credible commitment such as would be possible under the Blueprint is the best way to change investment incentives in India while at the same time give India time to develop before contributing to the cost of global greenhouse abatement.

To view this paper, visit the link

CLIMATE CHANGE - Perspective from India

Climate change is no more an environmental concern. It has emerged as the biggest developmental challenge for the planet. To dialogue from the perspective of the poor is one of UNDP’s contributions to overall development process.

The publication on "CLIMATE CHANGE - Perspective from India" has been authored by Sunita Narain,Prodipto Ghosh, NC Saxena, Jyoti Parikh & Preeti Soni with collection of articles that captures and disseminates perspectives on climate change from the Indian context. Starting from an argument on a new climate deal to highlighting the importance of the small-scale industrial sector within the climate change debates, some of India’s best known environmentalists, economists and policy makers have put forward their concerns and convictions in this collection.

To view the publication, visit this link

READY RECKONER ON MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT FOR URBAN LOCAL BODIES

Ready Reckoner on Solid Waste Management has been prepared by the Commissionarate of Municipal Administration - Tamil Nadu based on the Municipal Solid Waste (Management & Municipal Handling) Rules, 2000 and the Manual on Municipal Solid Waste Management by the Central Public Health & Environmental Engineering Organization(CPHEEO).

The compendium explains the types and characteristics of municipal solid waste, the objectives of municipal solid waste management systems and the normative standards for primary and secondary collection, transportation, processing and disposal of solid waste, landfill operations, specifications of tools, equipments and vehicles in Urban Local Bodies.

This compendium encompasses a comprehensive overview of the systematic steps, which need to be taken, for sustainable solid waste management in urban centres.

To download the PDF version of the Compendium, visit this link

Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA)

Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 1976 is an Act that was enacted by the Indian Government to regulate the inflow and outflow of foreign funding to Voluntary Organisations. Being an Internal Security instrument, this Act is under the Ministry of Home Affairs of Government of India.  For more information about FCRA, visit this link

What is "FCRA"?

Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), 1976

An Act to regulate the acceptance and utilization of foreign contribution or foreign hospitality by certain persons or associations, with a view to ensuring that parliamentary institutions, political associations and academic and other voluntary organizations as well as individuals working in the important areas of national life may function in a manner consistent with the values of a sovereign democratic republic, and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. (from MHA website)

Who can receive foreign contribution ?

An association having a definite cultural, economic, educational, religious or social programme can receive foreign contribution after it obtains the prior permission of the Central Government, or gets itself registered with the Central Government. An illustrative but not exhaustive list of activities which are permissible and may be carried out by associations of different nature are available on the website http://mha.nic.in/fore.htm

Most of the Voluntary Organisations receiving funds from foreign sources / donors are governed by this Act. For the FCRA online services, visit this MHA site

For downloading FCRA forms, visit this link

Related links:

1. ASHANET

2. KARMAYOG

3. FCRAforNGOs

Vacancies for Personnel officers - ET (HR) in HEC Ltd.,

HEAVY ENGINEERING CORPORATION LIMITED (HEC Ltd,) established in the year 1958 is one of the largest Engineering Complex in India. It manufactures and supplies capital equipment, machines and renders turn key project execution services required for the

core sector industries. It has complete manufacturing set up including casting & forging, fabrication, machining, assembly and testing - all at one location backed by a strong design- engineering and technology team.

HECL, India invites applications from young, energetic and result oriented persons of Indian nationality for around 5 posts of Executive Trainees (Personnel officers- ET(HR))

Minimum Qualification:

Full time Post Graduate Degree / Post Graduate Diploma in Personnel Management & Industrial Relations (Two Years) or MBA/Master of Social work with specialisation in Personnel Management & Industrial Relations or equivalent from recognized Indian University/Institute approved by AICTE.

Last date to apply is 30th June 2010.  For more information about this vacancy and to apply for the same, visit this link

Vacancy Announcement: Programme Management Officer in WHO (India)

Title: Programme Management Officer

Grade: P5

Contract type: Fixed-term appointment

Duration of contract: Two years

Application Deadline: 15 July 2010

Duty Station: New Delhi India

Organization unit: SEARO Regional Office for the South East Asia (SE/RGO) /

SE/DPM Director - Programme Management (SE/DPM)

Education:

Essential: (1) Degree in social sciences or medicine; (2) Post-graduate degree/training in Public Health or Health Management or Public Health Administration from a recognized University.

Desirable: Certificate training in management in an asset.

Skills:

Essential: In-depth knowledge, abilities and skills in areas of health programme monitoring and evaluation and preferably applications of management principles. Skills and knowledge of health planning methods, policy analysis, and strategy formulation.

Desirable: Proficiency in computerization. Ability in health policy analysis. Tact and ability to establish good working relationships/environment with national and international staff, resourcefulness and positive attitude.

Experience:

Essential: Extensive experience in public health administration in planning and management specially in the areas of programme development, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, at national level. Five years' experience at the international level in planning and management.

Desirable: Experience in developing countries in the fields of programme development and management.

Languages:

Essential: High level of proficiency in English

Desirable: Knowledge of other UN language.

For more information about this vacancy and to apply for the same, visit this link

Vacancy announcement for Researcher - Social Scientist in IWMI (India)

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) is a non-profit, scientific organization engaged in research and capacity building activities for developing countries. IWMI is seeking a highly competent and dynamic Researcher-Social Sciences to be based in its South Asia Office in Hyderabad, India.

Location:

The position will be based in IWMI’s South Asia office in Hyderabad, India and reports to an IWMI Project Leader and/or Theme Leader on Water and Society.

Job Purpose:

To develop innovative methodologies, guide their empirical implementation and provide insightful interpretation of data to address socio-economic and institutional issues relating to agricultural water management in developing countries. Results should provide recommendations to enable policy makers to make informed decisions on appropriate agricultural water management interventions.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Conducting high quality research on socio-economic and institutional issues relating to water management, political ecology and political economy of water resources development in South Asia
• Developing and conducting research on institutional and political economy of watershed development, institutional reform in the waters sector, changes in property rights and their impacts of agricultural productivity, livelihoods and poverty.
• Designing and implementing research to enhance livelihoods of poor rural farming communities in challenging contexts through improved knowledge of agricultural land and water management
• Designing and implementing field data collection, and supervising the field-work of research assistants
• Communicating research results in internal and external forums.
• Facilitating the uptake of research outcomes by government, development NGOs and the private sector.
• Contribute to IWMI’s capacity building efforts in the area of policy analysis and institution building

Last date to apply for this post is 30th June 2010. For more information about this vacancy and to apply for the same, visit this link

Vacancy annoucement for Team Assistant in The World Bank (India)

Job Title:  Team Assistant

Job Family:  Administration

Location:  New Delhi, India

Job Posted:  22-Jun-2010

Closing Date:  13-Jul-2010

Language Requirements:  English [Essential]

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support team with data inputting/processing.
• Provide limited administrative support, i.e., typing, faxing, assisting in logistical planning for events, and handling incoming calls.
• Establish and maintain, where applicable, project files, both paper and electronic files.
• Check short documents for editorial/spelling/grammar/punctuation and style.
• Respond to requests involving file searches and liaise with other Bank Units and service departments to gather material requested by staff.
• Provide back-up support to other ACS staff during absences or peak positions. Share the workload when required.
• Undertake ad-hoc duties that may be assigned.
• In addition, the candidate is expected to have proficiency in using advanced functions of Bank standard computer applications and adaptability to use state-of-the-art software, such as to:
• Assist staff with MS office programs such as Word, Excel and Powerpoint.
• Scan documents when required.
• Begin to build operational knowledge, under guidance/direction, to assist Project teams with the support required.

Selection Criteria:

• High School Diploma with preferably 2 years related working experience.
• Ability to work independently and efficiently.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, high degree of initiative and motivation, independence, adaptability.
• Proven ability to work effectively in a team-oriented multi-cultural environment, and ability to interact tactfully with people at all levels.
• Excellent English oral and written communications skills, and ability to edit short documents.
• Effective time management, administrative and organizational skills, as well as attention to detail.
• Ability to adapt to a changing work environment.
• Demonstrated aptitude for office technology and proven knowledge of Word, Lotus Notes, Excel and the Bank’s Intranet.
• Enthusiasm and motivation to learn new skills and be part of a dynamic team.

For more information about this vacancy and to apply for the same, visit this link 

Team Leader: EC Reproductive and Child Health Assignment in Futures Group Europe

Futures Group Europe (London) and its consortium partners seek a seasoned Team Leader to direct an anticipated, multi-million Euro programme of technical assistance to India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and other government institutions in support of the national Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) Programme II.

The Team Leader will join a team of experts who will provide long-term technical assistance to India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) as part of the European Commission’s Sector Policy Support Programme/National Rural Health Mission/Reproductive and Child Health Programme (RHC) II. Although the dates of the assignment are still to be decided the project will likely start in quarter 3 of 2010.

The objective of the RCH programme in India is to address the unmet needs of contraception, health care infrastructure and health personnel, and to provide an integrated service delivery for basic reproductive and child health care, with a special focus on states facing major socio-demographic challenges.

In support of these wider objectives, this EC support progamme will:

* Strengthen the organisational development of the MoHFW and National Health Resource Centre;

* Support the National Institute of Health and Family Welfare to function along the lines of its statutory mission; and

* Build state capacity to follow up on the health sector reform agenda for Reproductive and Child service delivery by aiding the reorganisation of the PHC service delivery infrastructure and strengthening the State Directorates for improved general and financial management capacity.

The purpose of the Team Leader post will be to provide strategic leadership, oversee the long-term and short-term technical assistance to be provided, contribute to joint research, identify consultants (short- and long-term), formalise contractual relationships between institutions, liaise effectively between the varying stakeholders of the programme and to ensure each result area is accomplished.

Last Date of applying is 3rd August 2010. For more informatiion about this Job Vacancy, visit this link

Job opening for Medical Social Worker in ESIC Super Speciality Hospital, Sanath Nagar, Andhra Pradesh

Employee State Insuarance Corporation(ESIC)is inviting application from Medical Social Worker for its ESIC Super Speciality Hospital, Sanath Nagar, Andhra Pradesh.

The Candidate should have possessed a Degree/Diploma in Social Work from a recognised Institution preferably with experience in Family Planning / Social Work / Health Education and Teaching and should not exceed 25 years of age. The vacancy is open for unreserved candidates (UR).

Documents required to be attached with the application: Attested copies of certificates in support of 1) Date of birth 2) Educational & Technical qualification alongwith marks statement 3) caste / community certificate 4) Discharge certificate in respect of Ex. Servicemen. 5) Disability certificate in respect of PH candidates 6) Two recent passport size photograph duly attested by Gazetted officer. One photo should be firmly pasted (Not stapled or pined) in the space provided in the application form 7) Two self addressed envelopes. 8) Demand Draft.

The last for submission of application is 28-06-2010 up to 5.30 P.M. For more information about this vacancy, visit this link

Global Sanitation Fund from WSSCC

The Water Supply and Sanitation Collaborative Council (WSSCC) is now soliciting Expressions of Interest from qualified firms/consultants for in-country components of the Global Sanitation Fund in Nigeria and India.

The Global Sanitation Fund (GSF) provides grant support to scale up successful sanitation and hygiene approaches, targeting poor people in countries with the greatest sanitation and hygiene needs. The Executing Agency receives the Global Sanitation Fund grant monies from WSSCC and manages the funded programme of work in country. It selects and enters into agreement with Sub-Grantees who directly implement programme activities on the ground. The Country Programme Monitor verifies programme implementation and reports to WSSCC.

The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) hosts WSSCC's Secretariat. Therefore, the procurement process and contractual conditions will be in accordance with UNOPS rules and procedures.

Deadline for submission (India) - 7th July 2010

Click below to access the full details of the Call for Expression of Interest to be the Executing Agency in India: http://www.unops. org/ApplyBO/ File.aspx/ UNOPS_Call% 20for%20EOI% 20for%20EA% 20in%20India% 20GSF%20for% 20website% 20-%201June10. doc?AttachmentID =54ceaa6d- 8bca-4ae4- b980-a69d9eaab2e 3

Click below to access the full details of the Call for Expression of Interest to be the Country Programme Monitor in India: http://www.unops. org/ApplyBO/ File.aspx/ UNOPS_Call% 20for%20EOI% 20for%20CPM% 20in%20India% 20GSF%20for% 20website% 20-%201June10. doc?AttachmentID =9702b72c- bf1f-4f6c- 8fe3-a829f4d3332 9

For more general information about the Global Sanitation Fund at WSSCC, visit this link 

Funding Opportunity Announcement to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence (GBV)

US State Department’s Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration (PRM) is providing fund to prevent and respond to gender-based violence (GBV) in refugee and conflict-affected populations, including research and assessments to strengthen GBV prevention and response interventions among populations of concern.

It is said in their official website that the Proposals should aim to strengthen the broader international community’s response rather than building the capacity of a specific or single organization. Proposals for GBV prevention and response programs in specific locations should be submitted through the appropriate regional and/or country specific funding opportunity announcement rather than through this announcement.

PRM is seeking to support:

a) Global projects which seek to build the capacity of NGO and implementing partners to prevent and respond to GBV, including Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA). PRM will consider proposals that provide assistance to refugees, returnees, and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Colombia and the North Caucasus. In all other regions, at least 50% of beneficiaries should be refugees or refugee returnees.
b) Projects involving research, assessments, or formative evaluations that could inform and strengthen PRM policy and programming for GBV prevention and response among PRM populations of concern per the mandates of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). PRM will prioritize proposals that focus largely on refugees and refugee returnees.

Proposal submission deadline: Thursday July 1, 2010 at 12:00 p.m. (noon) EDT. Proposals submitted after this deadline will not be considered.

Proposed Program Start Dates: July15-September 1, 2010

Duration of Activity: No more than 12 months.


For more information about this funding, visit this link

Vacancy in Concern India Foundation

Concern India Foundation is a non-profit, public charitable trust that supports development-oriented organisations working for the disadvantaged. Find below, the job openings in their Foundation:

. Chief Financial Officer

. Branch Manager

. Head - Resource Mobilisation

. Executive - Resource Mobilisation

. Assistant Manager - Projects

. Executive Projects

. Manager - Art Team

. Executive - Art Team

. Manager - Products

. Executive – Product Sales

. Executive - Accounts / Administration

. Executive - Communications

. Executive - Programs

. Executive - Special Exhibitions

For more information, visit this link

Operation Head - Microfinance Program - Labournet

MAya (Movement for Alternatives and Youth Awareness) Organic is a livelihood development Initiative that helps micro-entrepreneurs build a network of sustainable enterprises that makes impeccable quality products by collaborating and partnering with umbrella structures to manage supply, product development, design and marketing. Maya Organic aims to create wealth and build capabilities of poor informal sector workers and their families. LabourNet is an initiative of MAYA. LabourNet is an institutional network of markets and the informal sector workforce to jointly address broader issues impacting the industry through transacting information and offering a legitimate framework for skill development and fair practices. Through the institutional mechanism called LabourNet, MAYA is addressing the issues of the unorganized workers such as dependence on intermediaries, little scope for skill development of the workforce, lack of organisation and professionalism in a large part of the industry, and the inability to monitor fair labour practices and therefore social compliance. Through this approach customers get benefits like access to huge database of workers, better service quality, turnkey solutions, customized service (flexibility on timings, terms, packages etc) and the workers get benefits like more business opportunities and inquiries, technical training, certification, soft skills training, insurance, bank accounts, collaboration with other workers, participation in larger projects etc currently there are 8000 primary registered workers and 25000 through networks. After long struggle with the mainstream institutions, construction workers have been able to open bank accounts. Labour Net has realized that the construction workers need loan facilities for pursuing their livelihoods. Labournet is currently started the Micro fiancé services to the construction workers in Bangalore, to manage the operations, Labournet invites candidates for (one position)- Operations Head. The position oversees/manage plans, operations and portfolios. Applicants must have at least 3-5 years direct experience in Micro finance/Banking.

Knowledge expected include Understanding of Microfinance sector, financial performance parameters, sectoral players, portfolio management, products and services, strategic planning, legal and statutory regulations and community participation and dynamics.

Skills expected are high level of data orientation, excellent analytical skills, team management, multi-stakeholder management, networking and building linkages. Candidates should preferably be a Post graduate degree in Social work or Business Management from leading Universities/ Colleges.

Language: The candidates should be comfortable in English and Kannada (to speak, read and write); other languages will be desirable

Location: The position is based in Bangalore

This position entails an annual salary of Rs 3.00 Lakhs- 4.2 lakhs. The candidate should be preferably be within the age range of 30- 50 years.

Labournet lays strong emphasis on integrity, moral and good ethical practices and encourages the staff members to follow the same.

To this effect the functions include:

· Strategic Engagement: Develop and implement participatively the strategic plan for the organization including plans for the branches (Workers Facilitation Centre) within the agreed performance parameter and quality.

· Business development: Promote the products and services of Labournet to various prospective clients and communities. The person should explore possibilities of developing linkages with districts, state and national level forums and also with various organisations.

· Resource mobilisation: Facilitating and establishing linkages with banks, financial institutions and government departments for availing on lending funds and programs for the welfare of the target group

· Monitoring and supervision: He/She will be responsible for Design and development of performance parameters and report on critical performance parameters on a periodic basis. The function also includes overview and management all portfolios with a special focus on portfolio at risks.

· Build a capacitated team: Develop capacities of the team to design, develop and deliver high quality support.

· Financial management: The person will be responsible for overall financial management and will ensure safeguarding of financial interest of the organization.

· Coordination with the Management: The person has to report to Management of Labournet and provide information of any situations/circumst ances which may jeopardise the execution of the plan

· Development of new products: The position demands being constantly looking for new tools, products, innovations in processes that will significantly improve the functioning of Micro finance service delivery.

Interested Candidates could forward their CV's to following email ID on or before 20 June 2010 - bala@cms-india. org

Vacancy at HELPAGE India - Social Protection Officer

HelpAge India is secular, not-for-profit organization registered under the Societies' Registration Act of 1860 since 1978. They are looking for Social Protection Officers for their concern at various locations throughout India.

Locations:
Bokaro, Agartala, Kolkata, Sibsagar, Jorhat, Silchar, Nazira, Chidambaram, Karaikkal, Rajahmundry, Kakinada, Tatipaka, Jodhpur, Cambay, Ankleshwar, Mehsana, Uran(Mumbai), Panvel and Hazira

Roles and Responsibility:
* Management and implementation of the project
* Community mobilisation
* Monitoring , reporting and evaluation
* Establishing linkages with Govt and other NGO`s and HelpAge India schemes.
* Liaison and representational role
* Field monitoring / office administration
* Budget Management

Required qualification:
* MSW / PG in social work / sociology with at least 4-5 years of experience.
* Should have excellent communication skills both written as well as oral
* Should have good presentation and PR skills
* Should be computer literate with proficiency in Microsoft Office and database management
* Should be sensitive to the cause of the organisation

The interested candidates could either email their resumes at hr@helpageindia.org or post their detailed CV by 15th June 2010 at the following address:-

HR Department
HelpAge India,
C-14, Qutab Institutional Area,
New Delhi-110016


For more information about this vacancy, kindly visit http://www.helpageindia.org/careers-current-openings.php

Articles for TNFTNC for their Souvenir

Tamilnadu Foundation a charitable, Tax exempt Non Profit Organization established during 1974 has been carrying out a number of charitable activities in the areas of Health, Education, Rural Development and Women Empowerment. Over the years TNF has rendered yeoman service to the less fortunate people of Tamilnadu through more than 500 projects.

Tamilnadu Foundation is organizing an Annual Conference in Chennai, on 29th June 2010at Hotel Savera, with the objective of creating awareness on the activities of Tamilnadu Foundation. For this, they are planning to make a Souvenir to mark the occasion and to highlight the activities of TNF in the years past.

In this respect, they are keen on adding more articles pertaining to the development sector and looking forward for more articles for the souvenir, which will add value and quality to the souvenir.

For further information regarding submitting of your articles, kindly contact:

Mr. M. Terence Aldrin,
Executive Director, TNF Inc TN Chapter,
Email:terencealdrin@gmail.com;tnftnc@vsnl.net;tnftnc@airtelmail.in
Phone / Tele Fax: 26446319 /26443648
Mobile:99400 91209.
Website: http://www.tnftnc.org/

Trust Declaration, Stocks

This Trust Declaration made as of ____________ (Date), by and between ___________ ("Trustee") and ________________________ ("Beneficiary").

Whereas the Trustee is the registered owner of ___________ shares ("Shares") of the corporation ("Corporation"); and the Shares are to be held by the Trustee as trustee and nominee for the Beneficiary;

Therefore this Declaration of Trust witnesses as follows:

I. The Trustee hereby declares that he or she holds the Shares and all dividends and interest accrued or to be accrued upon the same upon trust for the Beneficiary and agrees to transfer the Shares as directed by the Beneficiary or otherwise deal with the Shares and the dividends and interest payable in respect of the same in such manner as the Beneficiary shall from time to time direct.

2. The Trustee covenants and agrees that he or she shall at all times, exercise all voting rights in connection with the Shares and otherwise deal with the Shares as nominee for the Beneficiary only and in accordance with the instructions of the Beneficiary.

3. The Trustee shall enter into, execute and deliver as nominee for the Beneficiary only, all such documents, instruments and other agreements as may from time to time be requested by the Beneficiary in connection with the Shares.

4. The Trustee shall, at the request and expense of the Beneficiary, account to the Beneficiary for all sums received with respect to the Shares.

5. The Trustee shall promptly transmit to the Beneficiary all notices, claims, demands or other communications which the Trustee receives relating to the Shares, including notices of shareholder meetings.

6. The Beneficiary hereby releases the Trustee from any and all liability that the Trustee may incur in respect of any action taken by the Trustee either pursuant to the authorization or direction of the Beneficiary or pursuant to the terms of this Declaration of Trust. The Beneficiary shall indemnify and hold the Trustee harmless from all liabilities of any kind and character that may arise out of any act or omission by the Trustee pursuant to the terms of this Declaration of Trust.

7. This Declaration of Trust shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective heirs, executors, successors and assigns.

8. Notices.

Any notice required by this Agreement or given in connection with it, shall be in writing and shall be given to the appropriate party by personal delivery or a recognized over night delivery service such as FedEx.

If to the Trustee: _____________________________________________________.

If to the Beneficiary: ___________________________________________________.

9. No Waiver.

The waiver or failure of either party to exercise in any respect any right provided in this agreement shall not be deemed a waiver of any other right or remedy to which the party may be entitled.

10. Entirety of Agreement.

The terms and conditions set forth herein constitute the entire agreement between the parties and supersede any communications or previous agreements with respect to the subject matter of this Agreement. There are no written or oral understandings directly or indirectly related to this Agreement that are not set forth herein. No change can be made to this Agreement other than in writing and signed by both parties.

11. Governing Law.

This Agreement shall be construed and enforced according to the laws of the State of ____________________ and any dispute under this Agreement must be brought in this venue and no other.

12. Headings in this Agreement

The headings in this Agreement are for convenience only, confirm no rights or obligations in either party, and do not alter any terms of this Agreement.

13. Severability.

If any term of this Agreement is held by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid or unenforceable, then this Agreement, including all of the remaining terms, will remain in full force and effect as if such invalid or unenforceable term had never been included.

In Witness whereof, the parties have executed this Agreement as of the date first written above.

_________________________ _______________________
Trustee Beneficiary

_________________________ _______________________
Witness One Two, Preferably a Notary

_________________________
Witness Three


_________________
Date

Vacancy at CAP foundation

Job Title:	Program Manager
Job Profile:	• Reporting to Regional Manager and Country Directors. • Administration and management of 5-6 Employability training centers (ETC). • Leading a team of 25-30 facilitators and 5-6 Center coordinators. • Coordinating all the activities of all the training centers. • Maintaining relations with the corporate and conducting business mentors meetings • Liasoning with other organizations (govt and non govt) • Ability to conduct community mobilization. • Maintaining all reports and updates for the ETCs. • Taking feedback from field staff and implementing all new projects.
Job Requirements:	• Minimum Graduate. Professional/Technical Qualifications will be an advantage. • A minimum of 2 years of experience in administrative/team leader role in similar organizations • Knowledge of local language is mandatory • Experience in community mobilization, liasoning, team management, administration and reporting. • Very good communication skills in English, Hindi and local language. • Good knowledge of MS-office and internet
Job Location:	Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, New Delhi, Rajasthan, Chhatisgarh, Jharkhand, Orissa, Maharastra, West Bengal and Assam.
Contact:	careers@capfoundation.in

For more information on other opening with CAP Foundation, visit this link: http://www.capfoundation.in/Careers.asp

ILO - research grant - Microinsurance Innovation Facility

International Labour Organisation (ILO) has announced the Facility that offers small research grants on a competitive basis for academics, particularly from developing countries, to analyze various microinsurance issues.

These grants are intended to increase the supply of knowledgeable microinsurance experts and promote microinsurance in academic circles.

The Microinsurance Innovation Facility and the European Development Research Network (EUDN) invite academic researchers to submit proposals for research that will contribute to new knowledge and support microinsurance development in developing countries.

Expressions of interest are to be sent to microinsuranceresearch@ilo.org by 13th August 2010.

For more Information, visit this link

Introduction to Multiple Personality Disorder

More than two million cases can be found altogether in psychological and psychiatric records of multiple personality disorder also called dissociative identity disorder. It is often thought that multiple personality disorder is a trick, a bizarre form of "play-acting" that is committed by manipulative, attention-seeking individuals. It is not. Multiple personality disorder is a "disorder of hiding" wherein 80-90% of multiple personality disorder patients do not have a clue that they have the disorder. Most know that there is something wrong with them; many fear that they are crazy, but few know that they have a disorder.

What is Multiple Personality Disorder?

Multiple personalities is a dissociate reaction to stress in which the patient develops two or more personalities. Each personality has a distinct, well-developed emotional and thought process and represents a unique and relatively stable personality. The individual may change from one personality to another at periods varying from a few minutes to several years. The personalities are usually very different and have different attitudes; one may be happy, carefree and fun loving, and another quiet, studious, and serious.

People can have up to fifty personalities or more. All personalities usually will have their own name and their own role. For example one personality can be the keeper of pain, his role is to take and feel all the pain that the other personalities come in contact with. The personality also can have their own appearance, but this does not mean the person changes its outer image it is just the way he/she sees inside his/her head. The personalities will also have different ages, talents, and likes and dislikes. For example: In the novel, The Minds of Billy Miligin, there was a man who had twenty-four personalities. All of his twenty-four personalities were different. They had different ages, their own appearance, and some were of the opposite sex. The personalities all had their own role and their own talents. There was one personality that was right handed all others were left handed, only one smoked, one had a British accent another Slavic. Many used their own talents some liked to paint, one was an escape artist, one was a karate expert and another a sculptor.

Various types of relationships may exist between the different personalities. Usually the individual alternates from one personality to the other, and can not remember in one, what happened in the other. Occasionally however while one personality is dominant and functions consciously, the other continues to function sub-consciously and is referred to the co conscious personality.

Relationships may become highly complicated when there is more than two personalities.
In many cases of multiple personalities the personalities will talk of a spotlight. The spotlight is how they come into the conscious world. All the personalities live around the spotlight whoever stands on it finds himself or herself in the conscious world leaving the other personalities unaware of the personality's actions. This leaves the next personality that comes into consciousness in total amnesia.

Causes of Multiple Personality Disorder

Multiple personality disorder often forms with a person who has been deprived of love and friendship and with a person who has been abused. These people make up friends for themselves, but not just and imaginary friends these friends form there own personalities. These people may also make up other people who are not scared or people, who can not feel pain to turn deal with abuse, which also turn into separate personalities. These people usually deny what is happening and may live their lives without anyone finding out about their disorder.

The degree of vulnerability of the child has a great impact on the amount of personalities the person will have. The typical female multiple has about 19 personalities; male multiples tend to have less that half of that. For example a male multiple from ages 7 to 10 who was sexually abused a half-dozen times by a distant relative is going to have far fewer personalities than a female multiple who was severely physically, sexually, and emotionally abused by both parents from infancy to age 16. The female could easily develop 30 to 50 (+) personalities, even in the hundreds. Although its important to remember that every person is different so there may be some people with many personalities and not that much abuse. Or allot of abuse and not that many personalities.

Signs that a person has multiple personality disorder:

Some signs that a person has multiple personality disorder are:

1. History of depression or suicidal behavior.

2. Childhood history of physical, sexual, emotional, or psychological abuse... reports one parent was very cold and critical reports of "wonderful" parents by a person who is clearly emotionally troubled.

3. Abusive relationships in adulthood

4. Strong attacks of shame; sees self as bad or undeserving sacrifices self for others feels does not deserve help; is a burden, reluctant to ask for help is sure you do not want to be troubled with seeing him or her

5. Reports being able to turn off pain or "put it out of my mind."

6. Self-mutilation or self-injuring behavior.

7. Hears voices.

8. Flashbacks (visual, auditory, somatic, affective, or behavioral)

9. History of unsuccessful therapy.

10. Multiple past diagnoses (e.g.: major depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, and substance abuse).

11. History of shifting symptom picture.

12. Reports of odd changes or variations in physical skills or interests.

13. Described by significant other as having 2 personalities or being a "Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde." 14. Family history of dissociation.

15. Phobia or panic attacks.

16. Substance abuse.

17. Daytime enuresis or encopresis.

18. History of psychophysiological symptoms.

19. Seizure-like episodes.

20. History of nightmare and sleep disorders.

21. History of sleepwalking.

22. School problems.

23. Reports psychic experiences.

24. Anorexia or Bulimia.

25. Sexual difficulties.

Treatment for Multiple Personality Disorder

There is treatment for multiple personality disorder, but the disorder usually can not be cured completely. The personalities can be combined to form one core personality the "original" person. This process of integrating all the personalities into one is complicated and does not work in several cases. The personalities will fuse together for awhile, but than break apart when put in a stressful or unsafe situation. Recovery from multiple personality disorder and childhood trauma takes of five years or more. It is a long and difficult process of mourning. The important thing to remember is that recovery does and can happen.

Conclusion

For many observers, multiple personality disorders are a fascinating, exotic, and weird phenomenon. For the patient, it is confusing, unpleasant, sometimes terrifying, and always a source of the unexpected. The treatment of multiple personality disorder is excruciatingly uncomfortable for the patient. Their childhood traumas and memories must be faced, experienced, digested, and integrated into the patient's view of him/herself. Similarly, the nature of one's parents, one's life, and the day-to-day world must be re-thought. As each issue or trauma is dealt with the alter personality that deals with it can disappear. The personality is no longer needed to contain undigested trauma.

In a sense we are all multiple personalities in that we have many conflicting tendencies and frequently do things that surprise both others and ourselves. This is illustrated by common sayings such as, "I don't know why I did it" or "I didn't think he had it in him." But most of us do not develop distinct separate personalities.

How childhood history and culture affects how we live as adults?

Childhood history has a lot to do with how we live as adults because certain childhood events could trigger something that would last a life time. Take for example if a child fails at something and the parent does nothing to help the child, the child will grow up thinking that failing is alright and that he or she will have a hard time in life with their job or in school or life in general. Many events from a persons’ life can stick with the person throughout their life like a thorn in the side. The event will every so often reappear in the persons mind when some event in the present triggers a familiarity with the past event and the person could go in to a state of worry or even worse shock. In this occurrence it could immobilize the person and result in a lackluster in the persons life and might not be able to carry on until the issue is resolved.

Many events that have happened in a persons childhood could result in how they live for example: a child who lived a certain way might become a custom to that way and live like that for the rest of his or her life and may not ever come out of that comfort zone until he or she is addressed with the issue. They may not want to try new things or meet new people or anything for that matter. The childhood history also has an affect on the relationship with the persons’ parents. Events that occurred in the past redevelop and the person might love their parent or hate their parent depending on their child hood. This is also true with relationships with a life partner. However they were brought up will affect their relationship with their partner.

Many psychiatrists believe that child hood events could show want might be troubling people, and when they find out what happened they usually could solve the problem. The person’s surroundings as a child is also a factor on how the person will live when they are adults. Usually when a person is surrounded by comfort the person will be a warm gentle person, but a person who is surrounded by violence and anger as a child will usually grow up to be and angry and violent person. In conclusion I believe that the child hood of a person or persons’ will greatly decide what his or hers adult life. Their child hood memories will stick with them either in their mind which they always remember a certain event that changed their life, or a memory will stay with them subconsciously and at a certain time a event in their life might trigger that memory that was in their mind subconsciously and arise and cause some pain and might be hard for the person to deal with in their adult life. Thus we should try to life a good life and not let too many things trouble you as a child because we still have our adult life to let things trouble us.

Alzheimers Disease

What is Alzheimers Disease?

The most common form of dementing illness, Alzheimers Disease (AD) is a progressive, degenerative disease that attacks the brain, causing impaired memory, thinking and behavior. The person with AD may experience confusion, personality and behavior changes, impaired judgment, and difficulty finding words, finishing thoughts or following directions. It eventually leaves its victims incapable of caring for themselves.

What happens to the brain in Alzheimers Disease?

In AD The nerve cells in the part of the brain that controls memory, thinking, are damaged, interrupting the passage of messages between cells. The cells develop distinctive changes that are called neuritic plaques (clusters of degenerating nerve cell ends) and neurofibrillary tangles (masses of twisted filaments which accumulate in previously health nerve cells). The cortex (thinking center) of the brain shrinks (atrophies), The spaces in the center of the brain become enlarged, also reducing surface area in the brain.

What are the symptoms of Alzheimers Disease?

Alzheimers Disease is a dementing illness which leads to loss of intellectual capacity. Symptoms usually occur in older adults (although people in their 40s and 5Os may also be affected) and include loss of language skills such as trouble finding words, problems with abstract thinking, poor or decreased judgment, disorientation in place and time, changes in mood or behavior and changes in personality. The overall result is a noticeable decline in personal activities or work performance.

Who is affected by Alzheimers Disease?

Alzheimers Disease knows no social or economic boundaries and affects men and women almost equally. The disease strikes older persons more frequently, affecting approximately 10% of Americans over age 65 and 47% of those over age 85.

Is Alzheimers Disease hereditary?

There is a slightly increased risk that children, brothers, and sisters of patients with Alzheimers Disease will get it, but most cases are the only ones in a family. Some patients who develop the disease in middle age (called early onset) have a "familial" type more than one case in the family. It is important to note that AD can only be definitively diagnosed after death through autopsy of brain tissue. Thirty percent of autopsies turn up a different diagnosis. Families are encouraged to ask for an autopsy as a contribution to learning more about the genetics of AD.

Are there treatments available for Alzheimers Disease?

Presently, there is no definite cure or treatment for Alzheimers Disease. Unfortunately, there are many unscrupulous individuals who market so-called "cures." These treatments are often expensive and they dont cure AD. However, since senility is such a scary problem and because families are desperate to find help for loved ones, these bogus treatments continue to sell. Most of them have no scientific proof of effectiveness.

What is the scope of Alzheimers Disease?

Alzheimers afflicts approximately 4 million Americans and its estimated that one in three of us will face this disease in an older relative. More than 100,000 die annually, making Alzheimers Disease the fourth leading cause of death among adults. Half of all current nursing home patients are affected, making AD a costly public health and long term care problem. An estimated $80 billion is spent annually on the care of AD, including costs diagnosis, treatment, nursing home care, at-home care and lost wages. Alzheimers also affects the patients caregivers, who become the second victims. Persons with AD often require 24-hour care and supervision, most of which is provided in the home by family and friends. In addition to the tremendous stress of providing care, families also bear most of the financial burdens of the disease as well.

Alcoholism

Alcoholism, chronic and usually progressive illness involving the excessive inappropriate ingestion of ethyl alcohol, whether in the form of familiar alcoholic beverages or as a constituent of other substances. Alcoholism is thought to arise from a combination of a wide range of physiological, psychological, social, and genetic factors. It is characterized by an emotional and often physical dependence on alcohol, and it frequently leads to brain damage or early death.

Some 10 percent of the adult drinkers in the United States are considered alcoholics or at least they experience drinking problems to some degree. More males than females are affected, but drinking among the young and among women is increasing. Consumption of alcohol is apparently on the rise in the United States, countries of the former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, and many European nations. This is paralleled by growing evidence of increasing numbers of alcohol-related problems in other nations, including the Third World.


Development

Alcoholism, as opposed to merely excessive or irresponsible drinking, has been variously thought of as a symptom of psychological or social stress or as a learned, maladaptive coping behavior. More recently, and probably more accurately, it has come to be viewed as a complex disease entity in its own right. Alcoholism usually develops over a period of years. Early and subtle symptoms include placing excessive importance on the availability of alcohol. Ensuring this availability strongly influences the person's choice of associates or activities. Alcohol comes to be used more as a mood-changing drug than as a foodstuff or beverage served as a part of social custom or religious ritual.

Initially, the alcoholic may demonstrate a high tolerance to alcohol, consuming more and showing less adverse effects than others. Subsequently, however, the person begins to drink against his or her own best interests, as alcohol comes to assume more importance than personal relationships, work, reputation, or even physical health. The person commonly loses control over drinking and is increasingly unable to predict how much alcohol will be consumed on a given occasion or, if the person is currently abstaining, when the drinking will resume again. Physical addiction to the drug may occur, sometimes eventually leading to drinking around the clock to avoid withdrawal symptoms.


Effects

Alcohol has direct toxic as well as sedative effects on the body, and failure to take care of nutritional and other physical needs during prolonged periods of excessive drinking may further complicate matters. Advanced cases often require hospitalization. The effects on major organ systems are cumulative and include a wide range of digestive-system disorders such as ulcers, inflammation of the pancreas, and cirrhosis of the liver. The central and peripheral nervous systems can be permanently damaged. Blackouts, hallucinations, and extreme tremors may occur. The latter symptoms are involved in the most serious alcohol withdrawal syndrome, delirium tremens, which can prove fatal despite prompt treatment. This is in contrast to withdrawal from narcotic drugs such as heroin, which, although distressful, rarely results in death. Recent evidence has shown that heavy-and even moderate-drinking during pregnancy can cause serious damage to the unborn child: physical or mental retardation or both; a rare but severe expression of this damage is known as fetal alcohol syndrome.


Treatment

Treatment of the illness increasingly recognizes alcoholism itself as the primary problem needing attention, rather than regarding it as always secondary to another, underlying problem. Specialized residential treatment facilities and separate units within general or psychiatric hospitals are rapidly increasing in number. As the public becomes more aware of the nature of alcoholism, the social stigma attached to it decreases, alcoholics and their families tend to conceal it less, and diagnosis is not delayed as long. Earlier and better treatment has led to encouragingly high recovery rates.


In addition to managing physical complications and withdrawal states, treatment involves individual counseling and group therapy techniques aimed at complete and comfortable abstinence from alcohol and other mood-changing drugs of addiction. Such abstinence, according to the best current evidence, is the desired goal, despite some highly controversial suggestions that a safe return to social drinking is possible. Addiction to other drugs, particularly to other tranquilizers and sedatives, poses a major hazard to alcoholics. Antabuse, a drug that produces a violent intolerance for alcohol as long as the substance remains in the body, is sometimes used after withdrawal. Alcoholics Anonymous, a support group commonly used for those undergoing other treatment, in many cases helps alcoholics to recover without recourse to formal treatment.

Despite these encouraging signs, estimates of the annual number of deaths related to excessive drinking exceed 97,000 in the United States alone. Economic costs related to alcoholism are at least $100 billion a year. Additional data are needed on various societal costs of alcoholism as well as on the costs of various modes of treatment compared with their actual results.