Monday 28 January 2013

Bangle to cure ailments unveiled in Delhi

Here is a great story published with New Delhi dateline. Our journalists are so naive that never ask a reasonable question in the press meets.  Not surprisingly, a member of Parliament and industrialist Naveen Jindal's NGO launched the bangle and Union Minister for Human Resources Development Shashi Tharoor unveiled it into the market. Actually this type of products are banned under the provisions of Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act, 1954.  Here is the funny story to read and laugh out loud.

New Delhi, Jan 25: A bangle that claims to cure ailments like acidity and arthritis, purifies water and even protects people from harmful cellphone radiation was launched here today.
The 'tiranga' copper bangle, designed with Tri-Vortex technology from South Africa, is an initiative of the Flag Foundation of India, an NGO run by parliamentarian Naveen Jindal. It was unveiled by Minister of Human Resource Development Shashi Tharoor.
Anton Ungerer, co-owner and inventor of the technology, said that the Tri-Vortex uses sounds from nature for health benefits.
"The bangles are treated in a high energy Tri-Vortex chamber with acoustic sounds like sprouting of seeds or flowing water for over 24 hours, thus imparting it a wide range of health benefits," Ungerer said.
"Powerful energy fields of the bangle create a flowing molecular structure resulting in much improved energy, vitality, balance and relief from pain," he added.
Several other products like Tri-Vortex coasters, which purify water when a glass of water is kept over them and pendants that can be attached to a mobile phone to prevent the body from harmful radiation, were also launched.
The bangle is particularly beneficial for athletes and the elderly.
Jindal said the bangle would be launched nationwide. It's price is yet to be finalised

Thursday 24 January 2013

Muhammad Yunus - too naive, and now too implicated, to recognize 'Multi-Level Marketing' as a financial fairy story

http://www.moneylife.in/article/90-of-herbalife-and-nu-skin-distributors-make-no-money/25635.html


Alex Counts,  president, CEO and founder of Grameen Foundation.

http://www.grameenfoundation.org/node/210 

I was recently informed by a naive young employee of Grameen America that '99% of all loans are repaid by Grameen's American borrowers.'  However, evidence from Grameen Foundation would seem to prove quite conclusively that this anecdotal claim must be a financial fairy story. The same evidence also proves that, as recently as 2011, the naive head of Grameen Foundation, Alex Counts, did not have the slightest idea of the danger which the 'MLM income opportunity' lie poses not just to the poor, but to the very concept of micro-finance.

The following 'Herbalife' propaganda has been cut and pasted from the Grameen Foundation's own Website:



'Grameen America today has 7,000 clients, almost half of whom are served by its original branch in Queens – a modest one-room space in a neighborhood where one can find store signboards with writing in English, Spanish, Hindi, Bengali, Arabic and Korean.  The scale of operations outpaces virtually every other MFI in the United States.  It was exciting to sit in their office one recent afternoon and see how smoothly everything was proceeding – half-dozen center managers had each attended between three and five meetings, as they do every weekday, and by 1 p.m. the office was filling up with clients who were coming for their loans, which are renewed every six months 
if prior loans are paid on time (as almost all are).

.
Alex Counts attends a Grameen America center meeting in Jackson Heights, NY.  (Photo by   H.A. Shah Newaz.)
Alex Counts (unwittingly) chatting with 8 of the many poor, Latino, immigrant women who have been deceived into thieving from Grameen America on behalf of the 'Herbalife' racketeers.

It turns out that most centers are populated by people from the same Latin American country – all except one woman in the center I visited was from Mexico (the lone exception was from Ecuador).  Others are dominated by Dominicans or Guatemalans, while some are fairly mixed.  Most of the businesses are related to food (pushcart, catering, etc.), clothing and other retail (such as flowers).  About eight of the women in the center I visited – which had about 30 members attending – were involved in Herbalife, a kind of nutrition program sold through a network of women who are organized like Avon ladies.'

Alex Counts,  president, CEO and founder of Grameen Foundation.
________________________________________________________________________

(It is also interesting to note that Mr. Counts also repeated the financial fairy story that almost all loans are paid on time by Grameen's American borrowers).
________________________________________________________________________


In the light of recent events concerning Bill Ackman, some common-sense questions might now finally be put to the officers of Grameen America by federal law enforcement agents:
  • Exactly how much cash has been lent to poor borrowers which they have then given to 'Herbalife?'
  • Exactly what percentage of these 'Herbalife'-related loans have been repaid?


Frighteningly, the actual inventor of micro credit, Professor Muhammad Yunus, has appeared as key-note speaker at a Congress of the so-called 'World Federation of Direct Selling Associations.' Apparently, Prof. Yunus was also too naive to know that the majority of so-called 'Direct Selling' companies, like'Herbalife' have been the corporate fronts for an insidious form of cultic racketeering which enslaves the poor by offering them the illusion of future financial freedom

Readers of this Blog should also remember that 'Herbalife' racketeers have attempted to obstruct justice on CNBC, and elsewhere, by modifying their previous financial fairy story - claiming that:

Bill Ackman's presentation (20th December 2012) and the Pershing Square Capital report, were based on a simple error - i.e. most of the people who have been described as 'Herbalife Distributors' aren't 'Distributors' at all, they are just 'discount customers.' 

Obviously, this Orwellian nonsense doesn't hold water in respect of all the poor people who have borrowed from micro-finance institutions allegedly to start so-called 'Herbalife Distributorships.' 

What sort of poor, Latino,  immigrant woman (living hand-to-mouth in a tough NY neighborhood) borrows $1500 from a micro-finance institution to buy piles of non-essential products that (even with the discount) cost several times as much as equivalent, non-essential products in a discount store?



David Brear (copyright 2013)

Monday 21 January 2013

CNBC's Selling the American Dream

CNBC got into the murky world of multi-level marketing and came up with a 30 minute program called 'Selling the American Dream'. You can check out all the details here

PACL office raided in Thalassery in Kerala


A team of Crime Branch sleuths have sealed the office of Pearls India Limited (PACL), a real estate development firm, here after a day-long raid on its premises  in connection with a case registered under the Money Chain Act by the Thalassery  police in 2011.
According to sources, a team led by Superintendent of Police (Economic Offence  Wing) P.A. Valsan raided the office from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Documents relating to  nearly Rs.33 crore collected from around 20,183 customers from the district were  seized, a Crime Branch official said.
The PACL offices in Kozhikode and Thrissur were raided by the Crime Branch on  December 1 and 2 respectively. Both offices were sealed and documents showing  clash transactions to the tune of Rs.267 crore seized from Kozhikode and of Rs.592  crore from Thrissur.
‘‘We are in the process of ascertaining whether they have been issued licence to  collect money from people. They collected money under the guise of offering land  in major cities in States including Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Andhra Pradesh  as per a cash-down payment plan and an instalment payment plan,’’ the official 
added. But the customers have not been provided with land against the payment, he  said.
A case was registered by the Thalassery police when agents of PACL collected huge amounts of money from a number of people at Sarada Krishna Aiyar Auditorium in the  town in 2011.

http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-kerala/real-estate-firm-
office-raided/article4198578.ece?css=print

Monday 14 January 2013




Herbalife Side Effects

Some people experience unpleasant side effects when using various Herbalife products. 

Bloating:

If you experience bloating, try changing the portion size to reduce this feeling. Enjoy healthy snacks during the day and smaller meals to assist your digestion. If you are using the shake mix as a meal replacement you may want to reduce the portion size or frequency.

Dry Mouth:

Some people report that their mouth is dry after black or fruit tea. Detox products often produce thirst so you can try increasing your intake of water. Dryness from using the shakes can be caused by acid reflux since it contains guar gum and psyllium husk. These have expanding properties, which can cause reflux. Guar bean is high in protein and oil and guar gum is used worldwide in many beverages, foods and supplements. In significant quantities, guar gum dehydrates the body and can cause some serious side effects. However, it is regulated by the FDA who only permits extremely small quantities of it in food. Guar gum in the shake mix is used to emulsify or bind the particles and has been determined to be of insignificant quantities.

Heart Palpitations:

 
Palpitations may be from caffeine sensitivity. The tea does have caffeine in it so you could either stop using the tea or eventually you will get used to caffeine and the palpations should recede. The shake mix does not contain any caffeine.
In the nineties it was found that Ephedra caused increased heart rate and Herbalife discontinued using Ephedra in any of its products.


Upset Stomach, Headache and Fevers:
In the first few days, many years of accumulated toxins and waste in the body begin to be expelled. Diarrhea, headaches, fever or nausea can arise.
These are temporary symptoms and will subside whether you continue the diet or not. The discomfort is not very common but happens to some people. Once you are detoxified you should feel great however. The body has toxins or free radicals surrounded by fat molecules, and when burning these fat molecules, the toxins are released into the bloodstream for elimination. They circulate through the body and are filtered out by the kidneys and liver. This can take up to 2 weeks. Areas where toxins and pollutants are expelled from the body can display reactions. You can first use a detoxification program to cleanse your system before starting the weight loss program if you wish.
Unpleasant-Smelling Urine or Perspiration:
This is another possible reaction to the body cleansing that is not caused by the products, but the waste you are cleaning out. The products are working just as they should.


Allergic Reaction and Blocked Sinuses:
People who are very allergic to fish need to know that some Herbalife products contain fish oil. See a medical specialist to determine if this is an allergic reaction. Sinuses are especially sensitive because they are soft tissue. Sinus irritations should clear in 1 to 3 weeks but if they get worse, discontinue using the product and consult a medical professional.


Malnutrition:
Beware of nutrient deficiency when losing weight. The Herbalife ShapeWorks program recommends that along with the 2 shakes and one healthy meal, you should add the Multivitamins and Cell Activator to ensure that you are getting enough nutrition. Cell Activator helps increase your nutrient absorption from food.

Stimulants:

Caffeine in green tea is not the same as in coffee. It is slower-acting and has a calmer quality. But if you feel too stimulated try half a cup instead of a whole cup for a while.

Swollen Legs:

This might indicate an allergic reaction to an ingredient in the Herbalife products. Please show your doctor the product labels and ask his advice. It would be best to discontinue using the product until you know what the cause of your swelling is.

Stomach Acidity:

 

If you are using Cell-U-Loss, try discontinuing it and see if that reduces your symptoms. If so, then Cell-U-Loss is not for you. If acidity persists when you are not taking it, there is some other cause. Cell-U-Loss contains 3 ingredients which may be causing the acidity: Apple Cider Vinegar, Vitamin C and Iron. It also contains herbs that have diuretic properties such as couch grass and corn silk extract.

Pregnancy: 

Total Control (the metabolism booster) carries a warning to not be used by the pregnant, lactating (or those that want to get pregnant). Rapid weight loss and stimulants during breastfeeding can release too many toxins into your blood stream and thus into your milk. This can cause a decrease in your milk supply and be unhealthy for your baby. Avoid the stimulants in Total Control and the Herbal Tea, which contain caffeine. Herbalife products have nutrition labels that show warnings to guide women who are pregnant, nursing or who may become pregnant.


Rashes:

 
These are the most commonly reported side-effects that happen when the body is de-toxifying. Redness, blotchy skin and irritation can arise. Your skin being the largest organ, has the most cells to repair and also discharges toxins. It takes about 2 weeks to cleanse the blood stream and during this time the departing toxins can be irritating. Exercise produces sweat and will release toxins that can irritate the skin. Herbal Aloe Soothing Gel can provide symptomatic relief.

General Detoxing Effects:

It is very well known that at the beginning of a diet or fast there may be some adverse side effects. These usually subside within a few weeks however. If you detoxify for a few days using plain water, fruit or vegetables you will also experience some side effects. When we have better nutrition, or when toxic substances such as coffee, tea, chocolate, tobacco, salt, and pepper are discontinued, amazing changes take place. Our bodies discard the lower grade materials and tissues to make room for newer, healthier ones.
Weight Gain:
An ideal weight-loss rate is between 3 and 5 pounds per week. If you lose weight gradually and are getting proper nutrition, it will stay off. Moderate exercise like walking is necessary to get the fat burning process going. Adequate hydration (drinking water regularly) is essential to flush the toxins.
Do not try to stop any Herbalife side effects by taking drugs. Either let the healing take its natural course or stop using the product if you experience an allergic reaction.
 
------------------------------------------------------------------

If you’ve just started taking Herbalife to lose weight, or you’re considering it, you may be wondering if there are any Herbalife side effects. It’s a reasonable question for anyone who is unfamiliar with the program.
Herbalife has a broad product range for health, nutrition and weight loss. The core product offering is the Formula 1 Nutritional Shake Mix. This is a protein based shake mix designed to be used as a meal replacement. The program also includes certain herbal supplements and vitamins to target specific weight loss needs, such as supporting metabolism, reducing fluid retention, burning fat and building energy.

Herbalife Side Effects

Certain ingredients in some of the Herbalife products may cause Herbalife side effects for various people. Fortunately the USDA requires that any such warnings be included on the Herbalife product labels. Herbalife aside, you should always inspect the product label for any over the counter weight loss supplement.
Here are three ingredients that could possibly cause side effects:

Caffeine – Some Herbalife products contain caffeine as a metabolism booster. Caffeine can cause nervousness, headaches and higher blood pressure. A typical cup of coffee has about 85mg of caffeine per cup. Per serving, Herbalife teas, tablets, and effervescent products have between 65-75 mg of caffeine per serving. If you are allergic to caffeine you should avoid the products that include caffeine. Some of these are: N-R-G Tablets and Liftoff energy drink. Check the product labels on other products for the ingredients.
Protein and/or Soy – Some people are allergic to concentrated protein. Although the body has protein in our cells, the problem occurs when too much protein upsets the balance in the body’s ability to process protein. Again, check the product labels for each Herbalife product you are considering.
Shellfish – According to Herbalife certain products contain shellfish, so if you are allergic to shellfish, you may want to avoid these products: 

Herbalifeline®, Tri-Shield®, Joint Support.


Herbalife side effects should not be confused with the normal detoxification process our bodies go through as a result of the healthy nutrients we’re now consuming. Also, consider the side effects from prescription drugs. Just listen to the end of any commercial or read the small print. It can be enough to scare you half to death! So, put any Herbalife side effects that you may experience into perspective.
Something else to consider when discussing Herbalife side effects is that especially for children and pregnant or lactating women, you should consult a physician or dietitian before considering any weight control program.

Finally, when your body becomes dehydrated, it can cause numerous side effects. As with any weight loss program, it is important that your body does not become dehydrated, so as you begin your weight loss program, it is important to consume enough water throughout the day.
Source: Blog healthy diet online

Thursday 10 January 2013

Kerala Crime Branch seizes Rs 3 crore worth goods, two Multilevel Marketing executives arrested


The Economic Offences Wing of the Crime Branch, Kozhikode, conducted  raids and seized goods worth Rs 3 crore from offices of three multi-level marketing companies operating here on Monday.
According to Crime Branch officials, cases have been registered against these companies for violating the Prize Chits and Money Circulation Schemes (Banning) Act, 1978.
The police officials said that raids were conducted at the offices of Modicare in Kathrikkadavu, K Link in Palarivattom and DXN on Old Railway Station Road.
Sunil Augustine, manager of K Link, has been arrested. Regil, a native of Thalassery, who is the manager of Modicare in Kerala too has been arrested. The representatives of DXN, a Malaysia-based company having its presence in over 40 countries, are out of station, and they will soon be taken into custody.
The Crime Branch officials seized goods worth Rs1.12 crore from DXN offices, while goods worth Rs 1.10 crore and Rs 37 lakh were seized from the offices of Modicare and K Link, respectively.
After examining the documents, the Crime Branch has learnt that DXN conducted a business of Rs.13 crore in the last one year. K Link and Modicare conducted a business of Rs. 6 crore and Rs. 4 crore, respectively, in 2012. A case against DXN has been registered with the Kasaba police station, Kozhikode, while cases have been registered with the Kozhikode Town police station and the Kannur police station against K Link and Modicare, respectively. The Crime Branch has sealed the offices after examining the documents and goods stocked here.
P A Valsan, Superintendent, Economic Offences Wing, Kozhikode, has said that operations of these companies had been monitored for the last several months, and that cases were registered as they received evidence that against the company for violating the Prize Chits and Money Circulation Schemes (Banning) Act, 1978. “These company sell products like cosmetics, food supplements, kitchen products, medicine, garments and agricultural products at exaggerated price. Each agent has to sell the products by adding two persons to his network. He gets a commission when the two persons add more to their network,” he said.
 The accused have been taken to Kozhikode. They will be produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate Court in Kozhikode.

Saturday 5 January 2013

AP High Court cancels anticipatory bail granted to Gopal Shekhawat

The anticipatory bail granted by the Prakasam district court to NMart chief Gopal Shekhawat was cancelled by the Andhra Pradesh High Court on Friday.
Justice Seshasayana Reddy chided the Prakasam district court for issuing anticipatory bail without considering the facts of the case.
The full judgement of the High Court order would be published as soon as it is available. 

Wednesday 2 January 2013

Gopal Shekhawat accused in several cheque bounce cases earlier

This is the letter I have received from Surat-based businessman Deepak Jariwala who filed criminal cases against Gopal Shekhawat for not paying the dues. The bounced cheques were issued in 2008. It is proved once again that from the beginning, he has been cheating people. 


RESPECTED SIR,

  MY SELF DEEPAK JARIWALA I AM FIGHTING  AGAINST GOPAL SHEKHAWAT IN SURAT COURT,  OUR CASE DETAILS ARE AS FOLLOWS

1. 19548/2008    CHEQ RETURN AMT   40 LACS
2. 19549/2008    CHEQ RETURN          24.LACS 75  THOUSAND
3. 19550/2008    CHEQ RETURN          24 LAC 75 THOUSAND
4. 19551/2008    CHEQ RETURN          14 LACS 75 THOUSAND SEVENTY FIVE
5. 18756/2008    CHEQ RETURN          24 LAC 75 THOUSAND
6. 18757/2008    CHEQ RETURN          24 LAC 75 THOUSAND
7. 18758/2008    CHEQ RETURN          40 LAC
8. 18795/2008    CHEQ RETURN          40 LAC

ALL CHEQUES ARE RETURNED AND TILL TODAY HE IS NOT PRESENT IN THE COURT. DAY AFTER TOMORROW, IF HE WILL NOT PRESENT IN THE COURT, COURT WILL ISSUE WARRANT AGAINST GOPAL SHEKHAWAT.  IF YOU NEED ANY HELP FROM US WE ARE READY FOR IT. PLEASE DO CONTACT

DEEPAK JARIWALA

WE WILL FIGHT TILL WE WILL GET JUSTICE.