Poverty Research Proposal

Table of Contents Introduction Problem statement Significance of the study Relevant Literature Review Methodology Conclusion References Introduction For a long time, poverty has been perceived to constitute lack or inadequacy of basic needs, including food, clothing, and shelter. The levels by which different societies achieve these three basic essentials vary, and this explains the differences in poverty levels among different societies. Today, America is described to have the highest level of poverty rate compared to other industrialized countries (Garcia, 2011).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Poverty: Research Proposal specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More To justify this, the recent and most current statistics from the Census Bureau shows that the level and rate of poverty in USA is increasing, with minority ethnic groups being the most disadvantaged (Dye, 2010). In the past, numerous poverty reducti on policies have been formulated and implemented, but their overall impact remains below expectations, as the main beneficiaries are the middle class in expense of the poor (Dye, 2010). Therefore, the situation calls for paradigm shift in policy formulation and implementation. Problem statement In the year 2010, poverty rate in USA stood at 15.1% up from 14.3% recorded in the previous year-2009 (USA Census Bureau, 2011). At the same time, it was noted that poverty rate for the last four years has been increasing at an estimated rate of 2.6%. On overall, in 2010, estimates indicated that about 46.2 million Americans are poor and the rate of poverty increased was observed to affect almost all major ethnic groups in America: Whites, African American, Asians, Hispanic (USA Census Bureau, 2011). Furthermore, the 2010 official statistics indicated the highest rate of poverty the country had experienced and recorded since 1993. Therefore, in order to address this issue of increasing povert y, there is need to conduct an action research that investigates public policy initiatives in USA with regard to poverty, and subsequently propose the most effective public policy that can be pursued successfully. Significance of the study Poverty remains an issue that ought to be addressed in the American society as a way of achieving the American Dream. Social inclusion goals and objectives postulate that, the well-being of humankind is the essence of stability, peace, and societal development.Advertising Looking for research paper on government? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Therefore, addressing poverty is one way of achieving social inclusion goals. At the same time, there is need for an effective public policy that comprehensively addresses the issues of poverty in the country. Therefore, this study possesses the ability to create a sound body of knowledge that in turn can be used to create an effective public policy f ramework. Relevant Literature Review Poverty level in USA is increasing at gradual rate, and the overall impact of this to the society is huge (Garcia, 2011). Addressing poverty has assumed and utilized unilateral public policy models that in turn have led to inadequacy in tackling the issue of poverty. For instance, many of the convectional poverty policies address education, employment, social security, health, economic growth, and tax (Anonymous, 2006). This has been done in separatedness and the result has been construction, formulation, and implementation of skewed and weak poverty reduction models. There is need to establish broad-based understanding of poverty and know that it interplays with other factors and elements simultaneously, hence any attempt to address poverty requires addressing the interplay of accompanying factors. According to Corak (2005), in order to fight poverty, social and physical infrastructure and services can be funded and maintained effectively if the target groups are involved in designing, implementing, and monitoring them, as well as in ensuring accountability of the government officials responsible for such policies. Methodology Primary and secondary research methods will be utilized, where primary data will be generated through actual field research techniques, while secondary data will be generated from works already done in the field. Furthermore, reliability and validity of information will be enhanced through use of both quantitative and qualitative techniques. This will see the use of questionnaires, field interviews, poverty program surveys, and in-depth discussion. The aim of this will be to ensure that the public policy to be designed captures the aspect and essence of poverty and subsequent reduction strategies in broad perspective.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Poverty: Research Proposal specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Conclusion P overty remains a social issue that requires clear strategies of addressing it. Efforts in the past have bore fruits, but given recent trends of increasing cases of poverty in the society, there is an urgent need to address poverty comprehensively. It is from this fact that it is recommended that addressing poverty in modern America require an action plan originating from an inclusive and integrated social equity policy strategy. References Anonymous. (2006). How can we solve the problem of poverty. Web. Corak, M (2005). Equality of Opportunity and Inequality across the Generations: Challenges Ahead. Policy Options, 26(3), 78–83. Dye, T.R. (2010). Understanding public policy (13th ed.). Longman: Pearson Prentice Hall. Garcia, G. (2011). Mexican American and Immigrant Poverty in the United States. NY: Springer. USA Census Bureau. (2011). ‘Poverty Highlights. USA Federal Press. Web. This research paper on Poverty: Research Proposal was written and submitted by user Mikaela Patrick to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Presidential Retirement Benefits

Presidential Retirement Benefits Presidential retirement benefits were non-existent until the enactment of the Former Presidents Act (FPA) in 1958. Since then, presidential retirement benefits have included a lifetime annual pension, staff and office allowances, travel expenses, Secret Service protection, and more. The FPA was inspired by former President Harry Trumans life of modest means after leaving office. Though Truman lived well more than a decade after the acts passage, it didnt apply him. Former President Dwight D. Eisenhower became its first beneficiary. Pension Former presidents are offered a taxable lifetime pension equal to the annual rate of basic pay for the heads of executive branch departments, like the Cabinet Secretaries. This amount is set annually by Congress and is currently  $210,700  per year. The pension starts the minute the president officially leaves office at noon on Inauguration Day. Widows of former presidents are provided with a $20,000 annual lifetime pension and mailing privileges  unless they choose to waive their right to the pension. In 1974, the Justice Department ruled that presidents who resign from office before their official terms of office expire are entitled to the same lifetime pension and benefits extended to other former presidents. However, presidents who are removed from office due to impeachment forfeit all benefits. Transition Expenses For the first seven months, beginning one month before the January 20 inauguration, former presidents get transition funding to help them transition back into private life. Granted under the Presidential Transition Act, the funds can be used for office space, staff compensation, communications services, and printing and postage associated with the transition. The amount provided is determined by Congress. Staff and Office Allowances Six months after a president leaves office, they get funds for an office staff. During the first 30 months after leaving office, the former president gets a maximum of $150,000 per year for this purpose. Thereafter, the Former Presidents Act stipulates that the aggregate rates of staff compensation for a former president cannot exceed $96,000 annually. Any additional staff costs must be paid for personally by the former president. Former presidents are compensated for office space and office supplies at any location in the United States. Funds for former presidents office space and equipment are authorized annually by Congress as part of the budget for the General Services Administration (GSA). Travel Expenses Under a law enacted in 1968, the GSA makes funds available to former presidents and no more than two of their staff members for travel and related expenses. To be compensated, the travel must be related to the former presidents status as an official representative of the United States government. Travel for pleasure is not compensated. The GSA determines all appropriate costs for travel. Secret Service Protection With the enactment of the Former Presidents Protection Act of 2012 (H.R. 6620), on Jan. 10, 2013, former presidents and their spouses receive Secret Service protection for their lifetimes. Under the Act, protection for the spouses of former presidents terminates in the event of remarriage. Children of former presidents receive protection until they reach age 16. The Former Presidents Protection Act of 2012 reversed a law enacted in 1994 that terminated Secret Service protection for former presidents 10 years after they left office. Richard Nixon is the only former president to have given up his Secret Service protection. He did so in 1985 and paid for his own security, saying his reason was to save the government money. (The savings were estimated to be about $3 million a year.) Medical Expenses Former presidents and their spouses, widows, and minor children are entitled to treatment in military hospitals. Former presidents and their dependents also have the option of enrolling in private health insurance plans at their own expense. State Funerals Former presidents are traditionally granted state funerals with military honors. Details of the funeral are based on the wishes of the former presidents family. Failed Attempt to Cut Retirement In April 2015, Congress passed a bill titled The Presidential Allowance Modernization Act, which would have capped the pensions of all former and future former presidents at $200,000 and removed the current provision in the Former Presidents Act linking presidential pensions to the annual salaries of cabinet secretaries. The bill would have also reduced the other allowances paid to former presidents. Annual pensions and allowances would have been limited to a total of no more than $400,000. But on July 22, 2016, President Barack Obama vetoed the bill stating it â€Å"would impose onerous and unreasonable burdens on the offices of former presidents.† In a press release, the White House added that Obama also objected to provisions of the bill that would â€Å"immediately terminate salaries and all benefits to staffers carrying out the official duties of former presidents- leaving no time or mechanism for them to transition to another payroll.†Ã¢â‚¬â€¹

Literature Review on Usability Testing on Academic Electronic Medical Coursework

Literature Review on Usability Testing on Academic Electronic Medical Record Systems - Coursework Example This can be disastrous for patients to the extent of causing avoidable deaths. Users of electronic medical systems are practitioners in the medical field and users of academic medical record systems are those who are being prepared through learning to become qualified and full users of electronic medical records systems. As a result, earlier application usability testing on academic medical records stands to eliminate or minimize errors associated with usability of electronic medical record systems. Implementing usability testing on academic medical records systems creates an environment whereby the health care services practitioners understand electronic medical systems earlier and are adequately prepared for the challenge (s) before them. Academic electronic medical records systems do not have much coverage as relate to usability testing but there is an abundance of literature on usability of electronic medical records systems. An academic application of electronic medical records system is very important in enhancing the knowledge and skills of the medical student for the actual task ahead. Amidst all of the debate revolving around product functions, features, and which product is appropriate for which practice setting, one very important aspect that require to be examined is usability. Usability of a product depends on the combination of its functionality, features, visual appeal as well as the usefulness (Emanuel, et al., 2008). A product must be oriented to the context it applies, and it must take into account the characteristics of its users. Generally, electronic medical records are used for handling medical information vital for patient care and enhance the efficiency as well as accessibility of that information. The same purpose is maintained in academic electronic medical records systems only that it will incorporate those training to become actual users in the future. The importance of testing for usability of academic medical records (EMR) system S tudies on the importance of testing usability of an EMR system, involves examining the role of usability testing as concerns evaluation of an EMR system, identification issues with usability by both beginners and more experienced system users, and effect on efficiency and satisfaction of its users (Corrao, Robinson, Swiernik, & Naeim, 2010). Academic practitioner literatures are confronted with both failed and successful implementations of EMR system. Setting up of EMR systems is always accompanied by technical, economic, organizational and cultural challenges. These studies conclude that apart from reviewing content and features of an EMR system, usability testing has the potential of improving chances of an EMR design being integrated with current workflow and process of business in a clear, transparent and efficient manner. In these studies 90% and above of issues and recommendations for rectification identified by beginners have been found to be credible. However, an interesting finding is that a majority of the users experienced in using previously implemented systems that have not been subject to amplified usability testing, had a higher level of dissatisfaction with efficiency as well as overall functionality but higher general satisfaction than expected. This underscores the importance of testing usability in academic EMR systems. Literature on academic EMR sys

Zachman Enterprise Architecture Framework Analysis Assignment

Zachman Enterprise Architecture Framework Analysis - Assignment Example It should be noted that the framework is not an ordinary model but more of a conceptual model, a composition of concepts, in that it exists in its applicability, mental synchronization and or personal/mind interpretations so as to guide the user to know, understand and where possible simulate the ideas in a practical situation (Raynard, 2000). Enterprise framework differs with structural/building framework in that as the building framework seeks to apply the laid out methodology, that is, to collect, manage and use information to achieve a prescribed/ designed model(s) to a tangible object, enterprise framework seeks to transform the abstract ideas, that is, intentions and semantics through designing documents, specifications, considerations of available models; without implying any specific and /or defined process. Therefore it can be viewed as a process to think, apply, re-apply, evaluate and solve problems through formalization and effective communication (Zachman & Geiger, 1997). With this in mind, we shall look at how Zachman’s enterprise architectural framework applies in reality by first understanding the types and scope of its architectural design. Types and Scope For conceptual enterprise architecture to be effective, there should explicitly define techniques to help individuals understand the represented system, it should convey the system details to the stakeholders, should provide a point of reference so as to simplify extractions of system specifications by designers and it should automatically and/or in a simplified manner, document the system for future reference and provide room for collaborations and implementation (Fishman & Selkow, 2003). For instance, it should first analyse the need for transformation within a given organizational process/intention or a phenomenon cross examine the available concepts to come up with a conceptual model and ideas to achieve the transformation. It should analyse the validation of the process, clearly sh ow its specifications analysis and the simulation process. It should reflect accreditation, verifications of the perceived implementation and execution and finally outline the expected results and the impact (Uckelmann, 2012). The Zachman’s enterprise architecture is based on six core questions; what, how, where, who, when and why, which form basis of applications in the modern organization. To come up with stronger arguments and justifications to support the model, these questions are further analysed in different business perspectives such as the scope: which seeks to explain the contextual business activities, the business model: which is the evaluation of the conceptual nature of the organization and its stakeholders, the system model: which is the logical approach of the required transformation in line with the business needs, technology model: it represents the physical and the intended aspects by the transformers of the new phenomenon, detailed representations by other members of the transformation and finally the analysis of the functioning enterprise. The Scope/ Contextual Approach The planner tries to figure out: what content will the framework contain and/or the overall model represent? This call to ascertain and prioritize on all important business processes and what transformations can bring an impact. This may take course through the analysis of available data and the projected/intended goal. The planner then needs to ask how the conceptual model will be presented. This seeks to explain the functioning of the perceived model which can be achieved through intensive analysis of the core

Obey at Any Cost Milgram,S. (1963). Behavioral study of obedience Essay

Obey at Any Cost Milgram,S. (1963). Behavioral study of obedience. Journal of Abnormal and Social Psychology. 67,371-378 - Essay Example This idea sprung from his curiosity of how soldiers committed vicious atrocities during World War II, and in general, the inhumanity displayed by people as a result of obeying orders from ruthless leaders in the course of history. Milgram wanted to test out his theory that humans tend to obey those in a position or power or authority over them even if obeying will mean going against their principles, codes of moral and ethical behavior. The experiment focused on subjects who were put in the role of a â€Å"teacher† who would inflict the punishment of electric shock to another â€Å"subject† (an acting accomplice of the experimenter) given the role of a student whenever he gave a wrong answer to a memory drill. The voltage of the shock increases the more errors are committed by the â€Å"student†. An â€Å"experimenter† conducting the study was actually a confederate of Milgram, egged on the subject to continue with the task at hand no matter how the â€Å"student/ learner† subject reacted. The whole scenario that was played was just simulated without the knowledge of the actual subject. Unaware that everything and everyone around him is not real, he and his emotions and behavior are the only ones that are. Surprisingly, out of the 40 subjects, 65% followed the experimenter’s orders all the way to the top of the shock scale. Most of them exhibited manifestations of extreme stress in doing so, sincerely uncomfortable doing the task while witnessing the suffering of the student subject. To ease them of their anxiety, the subjects were â€Å"debriefed† after the experiment. The purpose of the experiment was revealed to them along with unmasking the accomplices and confederates to introduce themselves. The subjects were interviewed regarding the feelings they went through. Milgram explains why the subjects continued to obey the experimenter even if they knew that they were responsible for hurting a fellow human being.

Differentiate Fat Fat32 And Ntfs Information Technology Essay

Differentiate Fat Fat32 And Ntfs Information Technology Essay In this term paper I have introduced the FAT, FAT32 and NTFS different file system . It includes features of FAT 32 and NTFS. At last there is comparison between FAT32 and NTFS. INTRODUCTION:- FAT:- FAT means file allocation table used by the operating system for locating files on a disk, a file can be divided into many parts due to fragmentation that is scattered around the disk. The File Allocation Table keeps track of group of all these pieces. File Allocation Table is a group of addresses that reach in the form of a table to see which cluster is coming next, when a file is accessed or a directory is scanned. In DOS, FAT is stored after the boot sector. The older versions of FAT for Windows 95 and earlier is called FAT16, and for new versions of Windows 98 and 95 is called FAT32. Terminology:- FAT: stands for File Allocation Tables, a data structure that is found in all FAT volumes. FAT1: It is the first thing to see in FAT. FAT2: The 1st copy that is used by the FAT. FAT12: File Allocation Table file systems uses 12-bits clustered addresses. FAT16: File Allocation Table file systems uses 16-bit clustered address. FAT32: File Allocation Table file systems uses 32-bit clustered address.. FATxx: File system that use File Allocation Table and all that is used by FAT. VFAT: It is the 32-bit code used for operation the file system in Win9x Graphical User Interface mode. Cluster: It is the Single unit for storage of data on the FATxx file systems. Sector: It is the unit of storage devices at the physical level of disk. Physical sector address: It refers to Sector addresses at absolute physical hardware terms. CHS sector address mode: As above, expressed in Cylinder, Head etc Logical sector address: It is a Sector address which is relative to the FATxx volume. Folder: It is a collection of items named as seen with the help of Windows Explorer. File Folder: It resembles the same as windows call it directory. Directory: It is a data structure that lists file and directory. Directory entry: It generally points to a file or directory, and contains the information about it. Attributes: It refers to the collection of bits in a directory entries that mention it. File Allocation Table is the entries list which is mapped to each and every cluster at the time of partition. The partition is further divided up into identically sized clusters, small block of space. The size of cluster varies depending on the type of FAT file Each entry contains records of one of five things: the cluster numbering of the coming cluster in a sequence a special end of chain cluster (EOC) entry that points to the end of a chain a special entry for marking a bad clustering a special entry for marking a reserved cluster a zero to note that the cluster on which we are working is unused FAT entry values: FAT12 FAT16 FAT32 Description 0x000 0x0000 0x0000000 Free Cluster 0x001 0x0001 0x0000001 Reserved value; do not use 0x002-0xFEF 0x0002-0xFFEF 0x0000002-0x0FFFFEF Used cluster; value points to next cluster 0xFF0-0xFF6 0xFFF0-0xFFF6 0x0FFFFF0-0x0FFFFF6 Reserved values; do not use. 0xFF7 0xFFF7 0x0FFFFF7 Bad sector in cluster or reserved cluster 0xFF8-0xFFF 0xFFF8-0xFFFF 0x0FFFFF8-0x0FFFFFF Last cluster in file (EOC) File System Structure:- The File Allocation Table volume has been divided into different four areas: The boot record:- It is the first and the starting sector of a FAT12 or FAT16 volume. It gives us the definition of the volume that we are using, as well as for the other remaining three areas. If the volume is made bootable, then the very first record will also contains the code required to enter the file system and for the purpose to boot the Operating System. The File Allocation Tables:- It is a address that can be reached as a lookup table to check which cluster comes next, when a file is load or scanning a directory. Because the File Allocation Table is such a important data structure, there are typically two copies (i.e. FAT1 and FAT2) so that corruption of the File Allocation Table i.e. FAT can be detected and intelligently repaired. The root directory:- It fixed in length and is always located at the starting of the volume (after the FAT) in FAT12 and FAT16 volumes, but FAT32 treats the root directory as just another cluster chain in the data area. However, even in FAT32 volume, the root directory will automatically follow immediately after the two FATs. The data area:- It fills the remaining part of the volume, and is divided into many clusters; it is only here that the file data is stored. Subdirectories are the very special files with a structure that can be easily understood by the file system, and is marked as directories rather than files by setting the directory attribute bit on the directory entry that always points to it. FAT32:- The FAT32 file system is that one which was originally introduced in Windows 95 Service Pack 2, which is really just an extension of the original FAT16 file system that provides a much larger number of clusters per partition as compared to others. As such, it helps greatly in improving the overall disk utilization when it compared to a FAT16 file system. However, FAT32 shares all of the other limitations of FAT16, and adds an vital additional limitation-many operating systems that recognize FAT16 will not work with FAT32-most probably Windows NT, but also Linux, UNIX etc as well. Now this is not the problem if we running FAT32 on a Windows XP computer and sharing our drive out to other computers on our network-we dont need to know (and generally dont really care) what our underlying file system is. Features:- FAT32 supports drives up to 2 terabytes in size. FAT32 uses space more efficiently as compared to others. FAT32 is more robust. FAT32 can be used to relocate the root folder and use the backup copy of the file allocation table instead of default copy. FAT32 is more flexible as compared to others. The root folder on a FAT32 drive is a cluster chain, so it can be used to locate anywhere on the drive. The previous flaws on the number of root folder entries no longer exist. Further, file allocation table monitoring can be disabled, allowing a copy of the file allocation table other than the first one to be active. NTFS:- NTFS is define as New Technology File System .it is a file system that was introduced by Microsoft in 1993 with Windows NT. It supports hard drive sizes up to 256TB. It is the primary file system used in Microsoft Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, Windows 2000 and Windows NT operating systems. The Windows Server also primarily uses NTFS. NTFS has several advantages over FAT and HPFS (High Performance File System) such as improved support for metadata and the use of advanced data structures to improve performance, reliability, and disk space utilization. The File Allocation Table (FAT) file system was the primary file system in Microsoft older operating systems but it is still supported today along with NTFS. It is more powerful and offers security advantages not found in the other file systems. There are normally three different file systems available in Windows XP: FAT16 i.e.short for File Allocation Table, FAT32, and NTFS, short for NT File System. The NTFS file system is generally not supportable with other OS installed on the same computer, nor is it available when we have booted a computer from a floppy disk. Advantages of NTFS:- It introduced the first version of Windows NT, which is totally different file system from FAT. It provides for highly increased security. If we have already upgraded to Windows XP and did not do the conversion then, it is not a problem. You can convert FAT16 or FAT32 volumes to NTFS at any point. NTFS Security Features:- . File compression Encrypting File System (EFS) NTFS Security and Permissions Hard links and short filenames COMPARISON :- In FAT 32 operating system that are used is Windows 98 XP whereas operating system used in NTFS is Windows XP. These are much file system for hard drives.   Each has its own pros and cons. But FAT32 is preferred because it is easy to read and write to with a boot floppy.   Windows XP comes with a conversion utility for FAT32 to NTFS called convert.exe.   Only the operating system decide whether a partitions file system can be read or not . There are no security features in built-in FAT which was designed in single user era whereas NTFS has many security features built into it making it the a file system for multi user operating system. BibliographY:-. Operating system concepts by Gill n Smith A fundamental aaproach to Operating System by Jain and Iyer

“White Man’s Burden” Essay -- Literary Analysis

Rudyard Kipling’s 1899 poem â€Å"The White Man’s Burden† epitomizes the European man’s view on imperialism, Euro-centrism and social Darwinism. Four centuries before 1899, such ideas were briefly hinted in the letter from Christopher Columbus to King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, however by 1899 these attitudes strengthened and developed fully into their complete meaning. The U.S and Europe’s imperialism in the nineteenth century were the most influential ever in the history of human civilization. The immense motive for imperialism came from social factors including religion and Social Darwinism. Missionaries frequently rushed to Africa and Asia to convert its people to Christianity. On the other hand, social Darwinism argued the survival of the fittest- applying science to racism, which fed ideas of European racial superiority. After landing on the African continent, Europeans felt they had a duty to civilize Africa, which is explicitly indicated by â€Å"The White Man’s Burden.† When white men invaded countries in Africa, they saw a new group of people who wore very little clothing and lived in simple buildings. This gave the Europeans the idea and need to help these people become more developed and evolve socially (Bentley and Ziegler 912). Rudyard Kipling’s "The White Man's Burden" encouraged the United States to impose colonial rule in the Philippines. Stanzas like â€Å"To wait in heavy harness,†¨ On fluttered folk and wild – Your new-caught, sullen peoples, †¨Half-devil and half-child†, indicates that Kipling believed main taining oversea colonies was a burden for the colonial empire because the empire was responsible for the inferior people. His reference to Filipinos as being both half devil and half child explicitly means that new ca... ...entley, J. H., Ziegler, H. F. Traditions & Encounters: A Global Perspective on the Past. Vol II – From 1500 to the Present. Fourth Edition. McGraw Hill, 2007. 2. Reilly, K. Worlds of History: A Comparative Reader. Third Edition. Bedford / St. Martin’s, 2007. 3. â€Å"Napoleonic Wars (1799-1815).† History of War. 2000. Dugdale-Pointont. 27 April, 2008 . 4. â€Å"Convention Revising the General Act of Berlin, February 26,1885, and the General Act and Declaration of Brussels, July 2,1890.† American Journal of International Law. 1921, 15(4), 314-321. 5. â€Å"Social Darwinism.† Explore the World of Replicators. 2000. Think Quest. 27 April, 2008 . 6. â€Å"Age of Discovery.† HCS-OSU. 1992. OSU. 27 April 2008 .

Ongc Corporate Governence

Corporate Governance Corporate Governance is a reflection of the company’s culture, their relationship with stakeholders and commitment to values. ONGC has a pioneer in benchmarking its corporate governance practices with the best in the world. ONGC Corporate Governance philosophy is based on the following principles:- Achieving high level of transparency, openness and accountability and fairness in all areas of operation. Promoting ethical conduct throughout the organization with primary objective of enhancing shareholder’s value.Sound system of internal control to mitigate the risks. Compliance of law, rules and regulation in true letter and spirit. Independent verification of the company’s financial reporting Strategic supervision by the board of directors of appropriate composition, size, varied experience and commitment to discharge their responsibilities. Timely and balanced disclosure of all material information to all Stakeholders. Protection of the inter est of all Stakeholders In recognition of excellence in corporate governance, the following awards have been conferred on ONGC: I.SCOPE Meritorious Award for Corporate Governance 2006-07 received II. ICSI National Award for Excellence in Corporate Governance 2003 III. Golden Peacock Global Award for Corporate Governance in Emerging Economics – 2005, 2007 and 2008 by World Council, U. K IV. Golden Peacock Award foe Excellence in Corporate governance by the Institute of Directors in the years 2002, 2005 and 2006. The company is managed by the Board of Directors which explicates strategies, policies and reviews its performance.The board of Directors has an adequate combination of Functional and Non-Executive Director. The company has a practice of periodic retreats where all the members of the Board and senior officials of the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas discuss issues of Corporate Strategy and Policy. The company being a PSU, all Directors are appointed/ Nominated by th e President of India. Board / committee Meetings and Procedures: 1. Institutionalized decision making process 2. Scheduling and selection of Agenda items for Board/Committee Meetings 3.Recording minutes of proceedings at the Board Meeting 4. Follow up mechanism 5. Compliance 6. Training and evaluation of non-executive Board members To have the benefit of cumulative knowledge and experience of the ONGC family, an assembly of the past and present members of the erstwhile Oil & Natural Gas Commission and Board is organized every year. The key Executives in-charge of Assets, Basins, Services and Institutes meet periodically with CMD and the functional Directors to review performance and to formulate future plans.The company has the following committees of the board: Audit & Ethics Committee: The role of audit & ethics committee includes the following: i. Oversight of the company’s financial reporting process and the disclosure of its financial information to ensure that the finan cial statement is correct , sufficient and credible. ii. Recommending to the board, the appointment, re-appointment and if required , the replacement or removal of the statutory auditor and the fixation of audition fees. ii. Approval of payment to statutory auditors for any services rendered by the statutory auditors. iv. Reviewing with the management , the statement of uses / application of funds raised through an issue, the statement funds utilized for purposes other than those stated in the offer document and the report submitted by the monitoring agency monitoring the utilization of proceeds of a public or rights issue, and making appropriate recommendations to the board to take up steps. v.Reviewing with the management performance of statutory and internal auditors adequacy of the internal control systems. vi. Reviewing with the management, the quarterly financial statement before submission to the board of approval. vii. Reviewing the adequacy of internal audit function viii. Discussion with internal auditors any significant findings and follow up there on. ix. Discussion with the auditory before the audit commences about the nature and scope of audit. x. To review the functioning of the whistle blower mechanism. Remuneration Committee:ONGC being a Government Company, appointed and terms and condition of remuneration of Executive Directors are determined by the Government through administrative ministry, the Ministry of Petroleum & National Gas. Non Executive Part time official Directors do not draw any remuneration. Shareholder’s/ Investors Grievance Committee: The Shareholder’s/ Investors Grievances committee specifically looks into redressing of Shareholders and investors complaints pertaining to transfer of shares, non receipt of annual reports, dividend payments and other miscellaneous reports.The committee also monitors implementation and compliance of company’s code of conduct for insider trading in ONGC’s securities. H uman Resource management Committee: The term of reference include consideration of all issues concerning human resource planning and management, HR policies and initiatives and promotion. Project Appraisal Committee It examines and makes recommendations to the Board on projects or Capital investment. Health, Safety and Environment Committee The terms of reference includes review of policy, processes and systems on Safety, Health, Environment and Ecology aspects.Financial Management Committee The committee looks upon the matters pertaining to Budget, Delegation of power commercial issues, Forex and Treasury Management, Capital structure, Issue of Securities, Short and long term loans periodical performance review of subsidiaries. Apart from the above committees, the Board from time to time, constitutes Functional committee with specific terms of reference as it may be fit. Meeting of such committees are held as and when the need for discussing the matter concerning the purpose arises .Time schedule for holding the meetings of such committees are finalized in consultation with the committee members. Code of Conduct for Members of the Board and Senior Management: The Company is committed to conducting business in accordance with the highest standards of business ethics and complying with applicable laws, rules and regulations. A code of conduct, evolved in line with the industry practices was adopted by the board on the recommendations of Audit and Ethics committee. All members of the board and senior management have compliance with the code of conduct for the year.Subsidiary Monitoring Framework: All subsidiaries of the company are Board managed with their boards having their rights and obligations to manage such companies in the best interest of their stakeholders. As a majority shareholder, the company nominates its representatives on the boards of subsidiary company and monitors the performance of company periodically. Disclosures The Company has not entered i nto any material financial or commercial transactions with the Directors or the Management or their relatives or the companies and firms, etc. in which they are either directly or through their relatives interested as Directors and/or Partners except with certain PSUs, where the Directors are Directors without the required shareholdings. The company has compiled with applicable rules and the requirement of regulatory authorities on capital market and no penalties or strictures were imposed on the company. Means of Communication: Quarterly or Annual results News release, Presentation Website Annual Report Guidelines on Corporate Governance by DPE: No Presidential Directive has been issued during 2008-09 and the last three years.No items of expenditure have been debited in books of accounts, which are not for the purpose of business. No expenses, which are personal in nature, have been incurred for the Board of Directors and top management. The administrative and office expenses were 3. 79% of total expenses during 2008- 09 as against 5. 45% during the previous year. The decrease in 2008-09 is on account of reversal in 2008-09 of excess pay revision arrear provided during 2007- 08 and also provision of additional gratuity in 2007-08 due to increase in the maximum amount of gratuity to Rs. 10 Lakh from Rs. 3. 5 Lakh.

Free Essays on Prayer In School

Prayer in Public Schools? With the state that the nation is currently in, prayer in today’s schools has once again become a controversial topic. Many believe that schools exist to educate. While children in public schools remain a captive audience, some perceive prayer to be coercive and invasive. While religion is considered private and schools public some argue that it is not appropriate that the two should mix. Some would also argue that prayer and religion are a necessary part of human life, which often helps fulfill the â€Å"total† human experience. Is it detrimental to strip these parts of life from the schools? I pose the question, â€Å"How can prayer be harmful?† I agree that mandating a special time for prayer may offend some. Does it have to be designated as prayer time? Does prayer have to be specific to any one religion? Or would it just be better if schools adopted a â€Å"quiet time† at the beginning of each day? Each student could decide if they choose to use that time for prayer. This was a suggestion made by Secretary of State Colin Powell. His opinion is that a moment of silence would allow students with different religious beliefs to participate. Some would pray, while others would reflect on the upcoming day. A moment of silence could contribute to acceptance of diversity within the student body. It goes without saying that public schools are responsible for the academic education of its students. I do believe the moral and spiritual education of the students must be addressed as well. I understand that public schools cannot promote religion, because of the division of church and state. However, many students have taken this issue into their own hands. Contrary to the belief of what many would like to think, prayer is widely practiced in many U.S. public schools. Students have been known to pray at athletic events, in school busses, at the flagpole and during student religious clubs. In 1962,... Free Essays on Prayer In School Free Essays on Prayer In School Prayer in Public Schools? With the state that the nation is currently in, prayer in today’s schools has once again become a controversial topic. Many believe that schools exist to educate. While children in public schools remain a captive audience, some perceive prayer to be coercive and invasive. While religion is considered private and schools public some argue that it is not appropriate that the two should mix. Some would also argue that prayer and religion are a necessary part of human life, which often helps fulfill the â€Å"total† human experience. Is it detrimental to strip these parts of life from the schools? I pose the question, â€Å"How can prayer be harmful?† I agree that mandating a special time for prayer may offend some. Does it have to be designated as prayer time? Does prayer have to be specific to any one religion? Or would it just be better if schools adopted a â€Å"quiet time† at the beginning of each day? Each student could decide if they choose to use that time for prayer. This was a suggestion made by Secretary of State Colin Powell. His opinion is that a moment of silence would allow students with different religious beliefs to participate. Some would pray, while others would reflect on the upcoming day. A moment of silence could contribute to acceptance of diversity within the student body. It goes without saying that public schools are responsible for the academic education of its students. I do believe the moral and spiritual education of the students must be addressed as well. I understand that public schools cannot promote religion, because of the division of church and state. However, many students have taken this issue into their own hands. Contrary to the belief of what many would like to think, prayer is widely practiced in many U.S. public schools. Students have been known to pray at athletic events, in school busses, at the flagpole and during student religious clubs. In 1962,...

Free Essays on The Massacre Of The Innocents

â€Å"The Massacre of the Innocents†, an oil on canvas painting by Pacecco de Rosa during the 1600s, depicts a scene from the Bible in which we see the moment when soldiers were sent out by King Herod to kill every child in the region to end the rumors of a child prophesied to rule the kingdom. The baby whom he was looking for was none other than Jesus Christ. And upon careful observation, one can see that among all of the chaos occurring in this painting, there is one mother and child who do not seem to be frightened like the others, so one may conclude that this is Mary and her son, Jesus. However, this couple is actually Mary’s cousin, Elizabeth, and her son, John the Baptist. Their presence in the painting is important, because they are the two main subjects, yet, ironically, they, at first, are the least noticeable. Their coloring is the least dynamic compared to the other figures, and they are located farther back in space than most of the figures as well. One may say they are the calm in the center of the storm, because we see that neither of them is being attacked, nor do they seem scared or stressed in anyway. This is due to the fact that de Rosa wanted to be true to the story, which stated that Elizabeth and John the Baptist were saved from this massacre. The painting is approximately six feet tall by ten feet wide. With this in mind, we see that each figure is about life size, if not slightly larger. De Rosa painted with oils on canvas, using every medium to its best advantage. For instance, we see his brush strokes are varied from one area of the canvas to another. In some places, he uses great detail with each stroke seeming very precise and calculated, like the tiny tear drops falling from the women’s faces, or the minute hairs on the men’s arms; however, in other areas, his strokes are more loose and gesturer with large, heavy brush strokes. This technique was used in describing things like the folds in ... Free Essays on The Massacre Of The Innocents Free Essays on The Massacre Of The Innocents â€Å"The Massacre of the Innocents†, an oil on canvas painting by Pacecco de Rosa during the 1600s, depicts a scene from the Bible in which we see the moment when soldiers were sent out by King Herod to kill every child in the region to end the rumors of a child prophesied to rule the kingdom. The baby whom he was looking for was none other than Jesus Christ. And upon careful observation, one can see that among all of the chaos occurring in this painting, there is one mother and child who do not seem to be frightened like the others, so one may conclude that this is Mary and her son, Jesus. However, this couple is actually Mary’s cousin, Elizabeth, and her son, John the Baptist. Their presence in the painting is important, because they are the two main subjects, yet, ironically, they, at first, are the least noticeable. Their coloring is the least dynamic compared to the other figures, and they are located farther back in space than most of the figures as well. One may say they are the calm in the center of the storm, because we see that neither of them is being attacked, nor do they seem scared or stressed in anyway. This is due to the fact that de Rosa wanted to be true to the story, which stated that Elizabeth and John the Baptist were saved from this massacre. The painting is approximately six feet tall by ten feet wide. With this in mind, we see that each figure is about life size, if not slightly larger. De Rosa painted with oils on canvas, using every medium to its best advantage. For instance, we see his brush strokes are varied from one area of the canvas to another. In some places, he uses great detail with each stroke seeming very precise and calculated, like the tiny tear drops falling from the women’s faces, or the minute hairs on the men’s arms; however, in other areas, his strokes are more loose and gesturer with large, heavy brush strokes. This technique was used in describing things like the folds in ...

Outline some of the difficulties for learners of english posed by the Essay

Outline some of the difficulties for learners of english posed by the english verbs system, both in form and meaning. suggest steps to a teacher on how to overcome these difficulties - Essay Example The action could have taken place in the past, in the present, or in the future. This calls for use of different tenses such as past, present or future tenses when describing the actions (Miendt 200). The learners are hence unable to correctly use them due to their inexperience in the use and meaning. The difficulty can be avoided by extensive reading in order for a learner to get used to tenses, as well as, continuous practice and use of English in everyday life. The other difficulty is poor formation of the verb string. There are some sentences that have a complicated structure. For example, a single string may comprise of auxiliaries and principles, as well as, a modal verb. The learners are unable to collect the parts of the string and put them in the correct order. This makes the learners use them incorrectly thereby distorting meaning. Multi –word verbs also pose great difficulties to the learners. These difficulties present themselves both in grammatical form and lexical meaning. Due to the fact that the verbs have more than one meaning, the learners have difficulty in interpreting the meaning where the same phrase is used in different contexts. These challenges can be overcomed by use of simple sentences that are easy to understand, as well as, making sure the learners understand the various meanings of each verb (Leech 11). The Chinese learners have difficulty in pronouncing English words correctly, as well as, reading English texts. This is because the Chinese words are not made up of letters as in the case of English where there are alphabets. The Chinese also have difficulty in stress and intonation. Since certain English phonemes do not exist in Chinese, it becomes difficult to pronounce these words properly, as difference in meaning is often distinguished by the pitch of the phoneme sound in Chinese language. It is important to note that phoneme sounds in English are

Macroeconomics Objectives of Governments Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Macroeconomics Objectives of Governments - Essay Example This paper offer a comprehensive review of the relative effectiveness of the different tools of macroeconomic policy, adopted by a different country`s governments, in attaining main macroeconomic objectives. The various theories, that suggest priority in utilization of specific tool, often interrelate and are applied by governments primarily to achieve sustainable economic growth. Generally, fiscal policy and monetary policy are used by the government to achieve the macroeconomic objectives. Whereas, fiscal policy is implemented by government through spending and taxation, monetary policy is essentially the responsibility of the central bank, through the controls of interest rates and the supply of currency. Both policies are implemented to reduce inflation rates and joblessness. Whereas, each macroeconomic goals can have repercussions on economic factors if they spiral out of control, a number essentially have a more significant impact on citizens. High rate of joblessness not only translates into lost revenue for the government, but can signify a permanent reduction in an individual’s chances of securing employment through loss of expertise. Low inflation rates is not a big issue, and as long as the citizens are in employment positions with adequate earnings; low rates of inflation will not result in any economic problem. Most people’s earnings, student endowment funds as well as pensions, are modified in line with commodity prices, and therefore, controlling inflation below the 2% level is not a major government concern. (Kiefer 2000). Nonetheless, increases in inflation may reach a point where its side effects reduces international competitiveness, dampens the hope of foreign inward investors, and shifts redistribution of income from savers to borrowers to a point that it is harsh economic impacts turns out to be a key government concern (Nayyar 2011). Fig 2. Aggregate Expenditure According to Jin (2007), a current account shortfall on the balance of payments may be of less significance to government organizations, especially if the capital markets and the national currency are stable. Conversely, this may imply that an economy’s expenditures have stretched past its revenue collection, and at a given point the expenditure will have to be countered by substantial inflows. The United Kingdom, for instance, has massive foreign investments with substantial revenue potential, which may imply the shortfall will be checked if the economic condition is left to take its own course (Fig 2). According to Kiefer (2008), whereas, governments should not attempt to correct current account shortfalls with demand management practices: policies leaning toward supply have shown better results in regard to the restoration of permanent competitiveness of the economy. According to Froud, Moran, Nilsson and Williams (2010), the most controversial of government objectives is the policy of imposing more taxes on the higher-end population and handing it to the lower-end, in order to bridge the gap between the two economic segments. Kiefer (2000), point out that redistributing revenue from the moneyed to the poor via