Rural development ? Development of the Nation I am delighted to meet the National Council Members of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). I am happy to note that the manufacturing sector has made an investment of over Rs.1,50,000 crores, producing an annual output of Rs. 4,00,000 crores which accounts for nearly 17% of GDP. The order books in the industry appear to be full and the industry as a whole is in the ascent phase. This is a healthy sign. However, I have three concerns in the present scenario.

Leadership for high altitude battle

Siachen Glacier is a National Asset

Angels of Mountain warfare

<img class="align-left" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/speechlecture.jpg" data-entity-uuid="762c055d-4874-4c80-8e5d-30bf1021cc80" data-entity-type="file" alt="apj123" /><p class="title1">Voting is a Sacred Mission</p><p>Dear Citizens, Good evening. You might recall during my address to the nation on the eve of 55th Republic day 2004, I had appealed to you that all eligible voters must exercise their franchise without fear.

Dynamics of Village development

I am delighted to participate in the inauguration of India Country-level Development Marketplace organized by the World Bank. My interest to participate, in this meet arises from the focus of the programme towards sustainable rural development in India.

Vision: BEL transforming into a Brand

Indomitable Spirit

I am delighted to participate in the function to pay homage to Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata to mark the 100th death anniversary of the great soul and one of the proud sons of India. I am fortunate to be with the members of the TATA family, organizers, industrialists, scientists, educationists and other distinguished guests. When I am in the midst of you, I was thinking what thoughts I can share with you.

Lives that can change

I am delighted to participate in the inauguration of Purandara Bhavana of Indiranagar Sangeetha Sabha. My greetings to the pioneers who conceived and established this Sangeetha Sabha, artistes, music lovers and distinguished guests participating in this function.

Music, particularly carnatic music elevates human soul. I am reminded of the Rumi?s poem which reads as follows:

"Angel is free because of his knowledge, 
The beast because of his ignorance, 
Between the two remains the son of man to struggle? 
How to come out of this human struggle"

Tarangini: The Waves of Experiences

I am indeed delighted to participate in the welcome ceremony of the Naval ship INS Tarangini, which has been in voyage for over fifteen months. My greetings to the planners and organizers of this mission, naval officers, naval crew and the cadets for making this mission a great success.

The Great Voyage