The Road to the White House, 2012

Introduction Voter turnout is an important aspect of a free and fair election in a democratic system of governance. A high voter turnout is deemed to be a sign of a healthy democracy (Lee 32). Even though America is one of the leading democracies in the world, its voter turnout has historically remained very low. In the last four decades, the participation of citizens in general elections has been steadily declining due to a myriad of socio-political factors. This paper highlights the measures that can be taken to improve voter turnout in the United States.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Road to the White House, 2012 specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Low voter turnout in the US is attributed to the emergence of candidate-oriented campaigns, inadequate electoral competition and the decline in the popularity of party politics (Green and Gerber 66). The rise of a hypercritical press has also contributed to the l ow voter turnout. Since these factors are difficult to address, more citizens are likely to shy away from the electoral process in the future. However, the following measures can help in motivating citizens to participate in elections. First, the current electoral process should be replaced with a proportional representation system. The current system discourages voters from participating in elections since a candidate can be declared the winner even if he wins in fewer states than his competitor (Green and Gerber 111). A candidate can also be declared the winner despite garnering fewer votes than his competitor. This happened in 2000 when Bush was declared the winner despite having fewer votes than Gore. These weaknesses demonstrate that the voters have a limited ability to select their leaders through the voting system. A propositional representation system will eliminate these weaknesses by assuring the voters that their votes will be the ultimate determinant of the countryâ€⠄¢s future leadership. Second, some laws that govern the voting process should be changed. Concisely, the voting hours should be extended to allow more people to participate. Most eligible voters fail to vote due to work commitments. Similarly, conducting elections on weekdays often discourage the working class from participating. Consequently, high voter turnout can be achieved by conducting the elections on weekends. Third, the campaign period should be reduced. Traditionally, lengthy campaigns are expected to give voters adequate time to evaluate the candidates. In the contrary, long campaigns divert the voters’ attention from campaign activities. Empirical studies reveal that â€Å"most voters lack the psychological preparation that facilitates close attention to campaigns when the Election Day is still months away† (Lee 98). Besides, voters are likely to lose interest in campaigns that last for a very long time. Hence, long campaigns produce an uninformed electora te, thereby discouraging participation in elections.Advertising Looking for essay on government? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Third, the voter registration process should be reformed. In most states, the registration process is often stopped, at least, two weeks prior to the Election Day. However, most citizens are hardly aware of the registration deadline. Besides, some voters find it difficult to register due to time constraints. Consequently, the registration deadline should be extended. Registration should be allowed on the Election Day in order to give more citizens the opportunity to participate. The registration process can also be made automatic. For instance, the government can use the list of registered citizens (holders of national identification cards) to create the voters register. Fourth, the media can help in motivating citizens to participate in elections (Green and Gerber 132). The print and electronic medi a play an integral role in informing the public about campaign events such as presidential debates, as well as, the policies of each candidate. However, the media has systematically reduced its coverage of political activities in favor of commercial adverts. The electorate is likely to be well informed if the coverage of political events is increased. Thus, the voters will have an incentive to vote. Fifth, civic education should be improved in the United States. Most citizens are not aware of the importance of participating in elections. Thus, comprehensive civic educational programs should be used to sensitize the citizens on the benefits of participating in elections. Finally, conducting opinion polls prior to the elections should be prohibited. Traditionally, opinion polls are used to predict the results of the general elections (Lee 122). Voter turnout tends to be low when the polls predict a landslide victory. This is because the citizens tend to believe that their votes will n ot change the results. Prohibiting polling activities during the campaigns will make it difficult to predict the results. Thus, more citizens are likely to participate in the elections. Collaborative Essay The Road to the White House, 2012, by All of Us The main issues in the 2012 presidential elections include economic growth, unemployment and tax policy (Gallup). Additionally, the voters are concerned about the management of the country’s public debt. National security and foreign policies have also featured prominently in the presidential campaigns. The Republicans have been criticizing President Obama’s economic and energy development policies since the beginning of the campaigns. Obama intends to extend the tax cuts that were introduced by Bush’s administration. The tax cuts are expected to benefit citizens whose income is less than $ 250,000. However, the president has promised to end the tax cuts that are currently being enjoyed by the wealthy.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Road to the White House, 2012 specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Romney, on the other hand, intends to reform the tax system by introducing a new set of tax cuts. For instance, he has proposed a 20% reduction on personal income tax rate. He has also proposed a reduction in corporate tax by 5 percentage points, as well as, the elimination of the estate and capital gain taxes. In 2011, Obama focused on pursuing green energy development policies. However, in early 2012 he made a dramatic change in his energy development policy by deciding to exploit all energy sources rather than focusing on clean energy. Romney, on the other hand, favors the development of non-renewable energy sources such as oil and gas. His energy policy is based on the premise that the non-renewable energy sector can create more jobs and significantly improve energy supply in America. The Republican presidential primarie s began in 2011 with several candidates competing for the party’s nomination. By February 2012, there were only four candidates left in the competition. They included Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich, Ron Paul and Rick Santorum. Romney was nominated as the party’s presidential candidate in May, after winning the support of 1,144 delegates. President Obama was nominated as the presidential candidate for the Democratic Party in September after he won the support of more than 2778 delegates. The Republicans held their national convention in August 2012, whereas the Democrats held their convention in September 2012. During these conventions, the parties focused on criticizing each other. The parties seemed to have adopted similar political values. Consequently, the conventions produced political strategies which were more or less the same. The Republicans focused on highlighting the weaknesses of their opponents by describing them as people who discourage individual success and free enterprise (Harris and Vandehei). The Republicans also described their opponents as people who prefer the European-style welfare state. The Democrats adopted a similar approach by describing their opponents as people who look alike and have little concern for the less fortunate. The Democrats also accused their opponents of having the intentions to control Americans’ sexual and reproductive freedom. Most voters find it difficult to make a decision concerning the candidate to vote for due to the similarities in the policies and political strategies that have been adopted by the two parties. Since the beginning of the campaigns, the candidates have focused on popularizing their policies in order to win voters’ support. Romney was deemed to be the winner of the first presidential debate. However, Obama was considered to be the winner of the second and the third debates (Gallup).Advertising Looking for essay on government? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In the third debate, Obama won the support of the audience by clearly specifying his positions on foreign policy and his past achievements. Generally, Obama has received favorable ratings on healthcare, energy and taxes. Romney, on the other hand, has received positive ratings on economic policy, as well as, his stand on federal budget deficit. The results of the 2012 presidential election will be determined primarily by the candidates’ ability to articulate the socio-economic issues that the country is grappling with. Works Cited Gallup. This Week’s Top Stories. Gallup, 27 Oct. 2012. Web. Green, Donald and Alan Gerber. Get Out the Vote: How to Increase Voter Turnout. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2008. Print. Harris, John and Vandehei Jim. Two Conventions Tell the Tale of 2012. Politico, 7 Sep. 2012. Web. Lee. American Voter Turnout: an Institutional Perspective. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2006. Print. This essay on The Road to the White House, 2012 was written and submitted by user Remington Wilson 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.

Cats Essays (434 words) - Cats In Popular Culture, Cats, Free Essays

Cats Essays (434 words) - Cats In Popular Culture, Cats, Free Essays Cats The English word cat (Old English catt) is in origin a loanword, introduced to many languages of Europe from Latin cattus[14] and Byzantine Greek , including Portuguese and Spanish gato, French chat, German Katze, Lithuanian kat and Old Church Slavonic kotka, among others.[15] The ultimate source of the word is Afroasiatic, presumably from Late Egyptian aute,[16] the feminine of aus "wildcat". The word was introduced, together with the domestic animal itself, to the Roman Republic by the 1st century BC.[citation needed] An alternative word with cognates in many languages is English puss (pussycat). Attested only from the 16th century, it may have been introduced from Dutch poes or from Low German puuskatte, related to Swedish kattepus, or Norwegian pus, pusekatt. Similar forms exist in Lithuanian pui and Irish puisn. The etymology of this word is unknown, but it may have simply arisen from a sound used to attract a cat.[17][18] A group of cats is referred to as a "clowder" or a "glaring",[19] a male cat is called a "tom" or "tomcat"[20] (or a "gib",[21] if neutered), a female is called a "molly"[citation needed] or (especially among breeders) a "queen",[22] and a pre-pubescent juvenile is referred to as a "kitten". The male progenitor of a cat, especially a pedigreed cat, is its "sire",[23] and its female progenitor is its "dam".[24] In Early Modern English, the word kitten was interchangeable with the now-obsolete word catling.[25] A pedigreed cat is one whose ancestry is recorded by a cat fancier organization. A purebred cat is one whose ancestry contains only individuals of the same breed. Many pedigreed and especially purebred cats are exhibited as show cats. Cats of unrecorded, mixed ancestry are referred to as domestic short-haired or domestic long-haired cats, by coat type, or commonly as random-bred, moggies (chiefly British), or (using terms borrowed from dog breeding) mongrels or mutt-cats. While the African wildcat is the ancestral subspecies from which domestic cats are descended, and wildcats and domestic cats can completely interbreed, there are several intermediate stages between domestic pet and pedigree cats on the one hand and those entirely wild animals on the other. The semi-feral cat is a mostly outdoor cat that is not owned by any one individual, but is generally friendly to people and may be fed by several households. Feral cats are associated with human habitation areas and may be fed by people or forage in rubbish, but are typically wary of human interaction

Anita Desai Essay Example for Free

Anita Desai Essay The main characters who struck me the most are Uma and her brother Arun; to them are dedicated the two parts of the novel. Personally I think they have a lot of things in common and I’m not only considering the fact that they belong to the same close-knit family: they are somehow subjected to a reality from which they both want to escape. Uma is the plainest character of the novel, I think: she always obeys her parents and makes everything they want her to do. This is not completely a negative point but, reading the first pages of the book, I admit that I would like to react for her to the commandments of her MamaPapa, as they are often mentioned†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Go to the cook†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ Prepare the packet for your brother†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ Write a letter†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦but how can she manage to do all these things together?! In my opinion Uma is also naà ¯ve, she seems to be somehow tied by a sense of duty to her parents, especially after the failure of her two arranged marriages, and what about the dowry she has squandered?! as her father reminds her. The only â€Å"pause† of her life is given by the visits of Mira-masi, a particular woman who deeply fascinates Uma for the stories she tells her: she represents a ray of hope into the life of the girl, although her parents don’t approve the complicity created between them. Arun, whose birth was really longed for, is sent to the USA where he attends the college: being the only son of the family he has the honour of receiving a good education and he has also the possibility to live far from the oppressing reality of his homeland. But his life remains very unhappy: also the family to which he lives while in America is a sort of weight for him. The second part of the novel seems to me a long digression about food, I think that the food itself is the only reason for a link between Arun and the new family, Mrs Patton in particular. I think both brother and sister are oppressed voices who want to live in peace and to escape from the world they live in, although they aren’t able to rebel against it. For this very reason I would like them to write to each other, what does not happen in the novel. Dear Arun, Maybe for the first time in my life I admit that I’m very sad but what troubles me the most is the fact that I’m not able to find a way out†¦ Our cousin Anamika is dead. Everybody here is trying to give an explanation but†¦what for, she won’t ever come back and there are no acceptable explanations for her death†¦ I absolutely can’t imagine that the urn in front of me contains her ashes†¦she is dead†¦ but I’m dead too. Her awe for the family led her towards death, but what about me? I will stay forever with MamaPapa, I can’t abandon them, they are†¦my life! When mama grips my hand I know, I feel that there is something strong between us and I can’t, I can’t leave†¦ MamaPapa is calling me†¦I have to go. I don’t know if I will ever send this letter to you: perhaps I will burn it. Uma Dear Uma, A new semester at the college is beginning and my stay with the Pattons is over. I’m happy because I can leave this strange family: it wasn’t my place, I didn’t feel comfortable with them, I felt oppressed and obliged to be part of it, maybe only because I felt sorry for Mrs Patton and I didn’t want to disappoint her. This is the reason why I gave her the presents you sent me (but please don’t reveal anything to MamaPapa!): I didn’t want her to be worried about me when I silently walked out of her life. Arun Alice Bravin 5 H Liceo Scientifico â€Å"M. Grigoletti† Pordenone Anita Desai â€Å"FASTING, FEASTING† The novel by Anita Desai appeared insipid to my eyes. If I were asked to collect all the emotions that the book has stirred in my heart, I would find myself in anguishing troubles, for I’m quite numb to it as well I am frustrated by each work of art dominated by a sense of heaviness. The characters are imbued with, or even better, they are emblems of this heaviness which reveals itself mainly in the temperament of Uma, who is the best-built character of the novel. Anita Desai succeeded in the enterprise of creating a character without personality, a woman deprived of her soul. She is the designated victim who is doomed to endure the burden of life, symbolized first of all by her parents. Uma doesn’t strike my sensibility: I don’t feel pity for her, nor would I establish a sort of sympathetic relationship with her; her ineptitude doesn’t arouse my anger, nor would I shake her out of the status of torpor she experiences. I am quite interested in one of the psychological aspects of Uma, that of repression. Uma is not free to be what she wants to be, to do what she wants to do, so she is utterly repressed in her passions, in her feelings, in her personality; this last dimension is completely neglected to her. These inner forces run inside her veins and arteries, like water permeating through the cracks of a rock and when temperatures gets colder, it becomes ice and causes the explosion of the rock. The same happens inside Uma and the implosion is disguised as a sort of disease. Convulsions, nausea which leads to vomit, suffered cries, these moments are the most involving – and at the same time disturbing – moments and situations of the novel. I would have appreciated if Anita Desai had developed this edge of the prism of Uma. Sigmund Freud stated that mental patients are like diamonds, whose structure is based on its corners. In these lines the diamond would break in case it fell on the ground. Uma is like that. Her body seems possessed by a demoniac spirit, her limbs, her bowels are rocked by the unique act of rebellion which is allowed to her. I wonder why the writer has snobbed this issue, which probably assumes a religious and philosophical value and is strictly connected to Indian culture. The heaviness that haunts the book is expressed even by the settings. Concerning this point I would like to recall the image of Uma and her aunt who leave together on a spiritual trip. The bus they catch is incredibly crowded: this episode evokes the image of mingled noises and smells within the dusty and sandy air of India. The writer enables us to appreciate each aspect of the setting – thanks to her detailed language – so that the reader manages to broaden his sensorial perceptions and is caught by the use of synaesthesia. ( The description of the believers bathing in the Gange becomes meaningful in this sense ). Before starting reading the book I thought it would be quite precious for me in order to learn more about the Indian world, even appreciating it by means of the parallel Anita Desai draws with Northern America. But I was wrong: â€Å"Fasting, feasting † doesn’t seem so representative of India: the impression I get is that of a character – Uma – who might be possibly Irish or even Italian. Westerners share the same common imagery about India and this common imagery is banal and dominated by prejudices. The book is ambiguous, in the sense that neither supports this statement, nor deny it. The same ambiguity lies in the second part of the novel – that dedicated to Arun – which takes place in the United Stated of America. Anita Desai gives us tenets and traits of the American Society coming in the story of an American family. Here there aren’t crowded busses or temples, but televisions, junk food, couches, barbecues, baseball matches and people who enjoy all these objects and events. The same dusty air is breathed by Arun when he goes back home walking on the boundaries of the street. The same atmosphere of heaviness which degenerates into disease. For these very reasons I state that Uma and her story are not so â€Å"Indian†. Moreover, I have some perplexities about the last chapter – really shorter than the first one – which doesn’t find a proper literary justification. It is a sort of appendix, even if only almost at the end of the book there’s the precise reference to the tile â€Å"Fasting, feasting† and is embodied by the bulimic girl. Alessandra Crimi 5 H Liceo Scientifico â€Å"M. Grigoletti† Pordenone Anita Desai – Fasting, Feasting Fasting, Feasting is one of the most interesting books I have ever read. Thanks to the brilliant descriptions and the elegant narration the reader has the opportunity to create an imaginary but precise setting were characters develop during the story. I think that this novel is like a mirror because it gives the opportunity to reflect, in both meanings of the word. We can reflect ourselves in the protagonists (mirror-like effect) and we can reflect, think, about the different values and importance that people from different societies give to ideals they believe in. In my opinion the rhythm of the narration is sometimes too slow, but I can understand that it is due to the fact that, once again, it mirrors the context where the story takes place. In India, in fact, there is no frenetic life, no stress, no anxiety of living and for this very reason people can pay attention to little events that we probably ignore. When the father asks for his drink, it seems to me that everyone in the family has to stop and be there for this event; when a guest arrives unexpectedly, all the attention is directed to him; even the choice of one kind of food rather than another seems to be one of the most important problems of the day. . The character of Mumdad is what emotionally touched me most, maybe because to a certain extent I can detect in them some traits my parents have. The image of Mumdad on the swing describes their indissoluble bond. Mumdad are a unique person/entity made up of two different souls. These two souls are always at unison, they never take opposite decisions, they argue but they always find a compromise, they are, in a word, complementary. I always admired this ability to build little by little a life together even if, for a child, sometimes it’s not so easy to accept their decision, or rather, their impositions. Uma is my favourite character. In some parts of the novel I felt really involved in her problems, in her thoughts and desires. She loves school even if she isn’t able to get good marks; she loves learning, she wants to try again, to spend another year at school, she’s sure she will improve. She suffers when Mumdad decide she should give up her studies. She suffers when she understands she is not as beautiful, intelligent as her sister Aruna, and so she is considered a lesser woman. Uma suffers silently, she accepts her condition of inferiority, yet she is always looking for a moment of glory that, unfortunately, never comes. She is like the most humble flower that grows up silently, that is trampled from the gardener that gave her birth, because a rose is blooming next to the humble flower and he must be there to praise the perfection and beauty of the rose. I’m not saying that I reflect myself in Uma , absolutely not, on the contrary, I’m saying that all my life I have been an Aruna, and I didn’t know about it. I’m an only child, there is no Uma in my family, but thanks to the juxtaposition of the two characters I have understood that I have always been loved and pampered and nursed and highly considered and I don’t really know if I deserve all this. This book has really been a great opportunity for me, it has made me reflect on my values and on the meaning of my â€Å"little† life: too often we don’t realise what is around us. But now I want stop talking about me. I would love to write a few lines about arranged marriages. In our Western society, marriage is generally viewed as a value strongly linked with the concept of freedom, the freedom to choose the person with whom we would like to spend all our life. We have this great opportunity and we often waste it. We are free to love a person for his peculiarities and not for his money and often people choose the partner for his richness, we get married and then we divorce and kids are treated as merchandise, we often get married for reasons that sometimes are far away from love and we claim to judge a society where parents choose a spouse for their children. I think that Western people are more contradictory than what they want to admit and perhaps less happy. Perhaps it is this very feeling that leads plenty of us to judge other cultures. DA PIEVE LUCIA 5 H Liceo scientifico â€Å"M. Grigoletti† Anita Desai â€Å"Fasting,Feasting† This is the first book by Anita Desai I have ever read. Her observations are astute whether they are on living conditions in India or USA. Anita Desai uses her words perfectly to convey exactly what she feels,but even if it could seem a contradiction,I think that the problem with the book is its dry, clinical approach in chronicling the lives of the characters, the book lacks passion. I was always on the outside, looking into the lives of people. The book offers few chances of getting involved with the characters ,in fact while reading the book I didn’t feel the compulsion of finishing it quickly. The part I liked better is the first half of the book that deals with life in a small, slow town in India, with rigid parents and well-drafted routines. The †Indian half† is more detailed than the other half which deals with the â€Å"rule-less† life in suburban USA. In the first half there is a partly successful, proud father, who goes through life, with set patterns and no passion. A mother who goes along with her husband, doing what is supposedly right and expected of her, curbing and killing all her innate desires. Three children. The eldest, Uma, clumsy . The middle daughter Aruna, pretty, ambitious and smart, but eventually also a victim of her choices. The last, a son, Arun, on whom the parents put all their dreams and energies. All of them, along with members of their extended family, go through some form of deprivation (of will, of fun, of passion and of love). I think that a merit of this book is the way it highlights the Indian traditions, cultures and mostly the place of a woman in an Indian family. I liked the character of Uma in the book because she is both willing to take a chance with life and at the same time dedicated to her family.She takes whatever happens to her life with such grace that she does not give me a chance to cry for her. I like her inner strength. The story in itself is told from the perspective of the protagonist, Uma, who starts out as a wideeyed child at a convent who shows an enthusiasm for education but with the birth of her brother Arun, Uma takes on the role of nanny. Here, one encounters the distinct preference parents have for the male child. Desai next explores the conventional belief that ties a woman’s worth to her physical appearance. A woman who lacks beauty is often rushed into the first marital offer she receives, only to pay a heavy price later on. Desai shows the challenges a single woman faces regardless of how successful she is. By contrast, Uma’s cousin is portrayed as the ultimate success because she is able to marry well thanks to her looks. She makes the reader wonder how happy she truly is, when she eventually takes her own life. Uma is the main character in the first half of the novel. She is a clumsy, uncoordinated woman who finds it difficult to succeed in almost everything she does – she fails in school, can’t cook, spills food and drink and can’t find anyone worthwhile to get married to. Her father feels that Uma is incapable of fending for herself, as she is too clumsy, uncoordinated and proves a failure in almost everything she does.Uma fails in school, in the kitchen and she even fails to find anyone worthwhile to get married to. The father asks Uma to interrupt her studies in the Christian convent when he find out she not doing very well at school. He feels that it was a waste of time and money to provide Uma an education ;he has other plans for her.She will look after her baby brother Arun and take care of the household while her mother rests after giving birth. Uma’s life is constantly planned by her father.Uma cannot resist her father’s oppressive patriarchal ideology, as she is afraid of the consequences that would befall her if she angered the colonial characteristics of her father. Uma’s entertainment comes in the form of her cousin, Ramu. When Ramu is around, Uma feels at ease. But the father feels that Ramu is a bad influence on Uma. He does not want Uma to be influenced by other men who are capable of brainwashing her to resist the demands of his patriarchal nature. Anita Desai. (2016, May 06).

Modern and Contemporary Style Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Modern and Contemporary Style - Essay Example This piece of art portrays the film industry icon of French nationality, Sarah Bernhardt as taken by Emile Tourtin in 1877. It can be seen that unbelievable height of imagination and creativity has been use to produce this masterpiece of art. In-depth evaluation of the picture explores the color tone variation that brings out the best of visual impression (Brommer 47). The main object that is Sarah is dressed in cream white dress which stands out as the background color subsides. The gradually faded color towards the background exposes the original and natural appearance of this great actress. Besides, the artist seems to have noted spacing. The main object seems to capture the Centre with equidistance from the corners of the portrait. The blend of textual feeling from the visual perspective and color is observed with the cream white dress at the front and relatively rough background outlook. The shape of the picture is consistent with its size offering the best of its visual view. Contrast in color offers a better pattern and emphasis through smooth transition of the actress dress to the background space. Balance of the picture is evident from the position of the actress body parts that includes one hand on the chin while another rests on the dress. Emile shows significant expertise that characterizes quality display of art. This work displays the historical concepts that characterize art. The sculpture is a reflection of the artist’s impressive presentation skills. In respect of this master piece, the ability of the sculptor to bring out the best of art is open to all. In respect of this piece of art, the sculptor applies the elements clearly to address critical issues that pattern the message being sent by this work. Variation of color tone is offering a clear visual impression of the object with a sharp contrast between font view and the background. While

Contraction in Smooth Muscle Cells compared to Contraction in Skeletal Essay

Contraction in Smooth Muscle Cells compared to Contraction in Skeletal Muscle Cells - Essay Example In this assignment, based on studies, a comparison has been drawn between the contractions of these two types muscles at the cellular and molecular levels. Before going into this discussion, contraction must be defined. Contraction is defined by activation of the muscle fibers with a demonstrable shortening of the muscle fibers2. The physiological events in relation to muscle contraction have been delineated in great detail, and they reveal that basically, with neural stimulation there occurs a series of molecular events initiated by increase in the cytosolic calcium concentration. In this assignment, these events will be looked at in a greater detail to compare these events between the striated and nonstriated muscles. Each skeletal muscle is made up of a large number of skeletal muscle fibers, which are thin cylindrical multinucleated cells of variable length, which in turn are made up of myofibrils, which are bundles of filamentous structures running along the length of the fiber. While observing skeletal- or cardiac smooth muscle fibers through microscope, a series of light and dark bands perpendicular to the long axis of the fiber are very conspicuous. Actually, each myofibril consists of repeating sarcomeres, and the alignment of these sarcomeres3 between adjacent myofibrils gives rise to these bands in the skeletal muscle. The structural plan of the myofibril is such that the sarcomeres are placed end to end, and this fundamental contractile unit is visible within skeletal and cardiac muscles. On the contrary, smooth muscle cells do not show a banding pattern. Actually, the arrangement of sarcomeres leads to the striated pattern in skeletal and cardiac fibers, and sarcomeres in turn comprise of alternate arrangements of numerous thick and thin filaments in the cytoplasm to give rise to roughly 1-2 micrometer cylindrical bundles. Smooth muscles are abundant mainly in the visceral organs, such as, gut, blood vessels, bladder, and uterus, and they are to serve a particular function. For example, smooth muscles present in the sphincters are designed to maintain a steady contraction for long periods of time and then rapidly relax or in other muscles, they remain constantly activated. To suit these varied functions, the smooth muscles consists of sheets of many small spindle-shaped cells linked together by junctional contacts. Although these serve as mechanical continuity between adjacent spindles, actually, in places there are gap junctions that are designed to provide electrical continuity between cells. Each cell is uninucleated, shorter than striated muscles, and broader than a myofibril. Unlike striated muscle, no cross striations are visible, although they contain the same contractile protein filaments, actin and myosin. It is important to note that their arrangement is irregular in a loose lattice unlike th e regular arrangement of skeletal and smooth muscles. Myosin has been termed as a molecular motor. This consists of two heavy chains and two pairs of light chains. The two terminal ends of the heavy chains create a coil that aggregate in the cell to create the basic unit of a thick filament. The remainder of this molecule juts outward from the thick filament creating the cross-bridge. Thus, these polypeptides combine

Going Back to School Essay Example for Free

Going Back to School Essay Returning to school was something I alway intended to do in my life. I knew there would be some obstacles and hurdles i would have to overcome to make my dream come true. Here are some obstacles I had to overcome in my past with previous school experinces I have had to return back to school. When I was younger, I remember my mom waking my older brother up and sending him off to school. I would get so mad, because I wanted to go. Than finally my day came, I got up and off to school I went. Elementary school was the great. I loved playing with the other kids. Kindergarten through fifth grade made me feel like school was a game. Yeah, we learned our basic studies, but we had fun doing it. Than came time for moving on up to middle school. My first couple of weeks were okay, but the work started getting harder, the other kids werent very nice and we didnt have much free time. I didnt like it, but it was something I got used too and I stuck it out. Finally, my ninth year came, I was a freshman in high school. I hated it, I was always getting pushed around and made fun of because my family didnt have much money. I didnt have name brand shoes or clothes. Everybody kept telling me I needed an eduacation to get anywhere in this world. Well I tried, finally when I was seventeen, only six months before graduation, I got so fed up, I dropped out. Once I turned eighteen, I realized it was time to make a life of my own. My family shouldnt have to support me. So I went out and found me a job. I was so proud of this job. I was doing good, or so I thought. After a few years of working for this company, I figured out I was already at the top of the ladder, I couldnt go up anymore. I had to better my life. I needed a higher education. I got it in my head and went and got my GED. Than once again my learning process stopped right there. Out of the blue one day, my mom calls and tells me about these online college courses. She knew I didnt I didnt want to go sit in a classroom. This struck some interest in me. It took me a few days, but I called and got enrolled. When I started my first class, I was a bit nervous, it took sometime to get back into the swing of things. Im still somewhat nervous but it gets better with each class. Going back to school was the hardest decision I have ever had to make. Well, it took the longest time anyway. I am so glad I decided to go back. Being back at school makes me feel so much better about myself. This is one thing I wont quit again.

Prejudice and Racial Discrimination in America Essay examples -- Socio

     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It has been over 500 years since Columbus sailed the ocean blue and yet the vast majority of that time has been filled with the woes, hatred and oppression of the American white man for his darker skinned brethren. If we take as our assumption that such racially motivated injustice can not be justified and should not persist then we must first understand how such an obvious imbalance came to be and what can and should be done to avert it in the future. Historically hatred was born out of fear and misunderstanding of cultural, religious and physical differences, and the economic necessities of the time. It persisted because of the even greater fear of admitting ones mistakes and the divestiture of power From African Americans when they most needed it. Even today it is diminished but not vanquished as linguistic and educational challenges combine with disagreements amongst those calling for integration to further stall our ability to achieve racial harmony . Hatred is an ancient evil that may yet be conquered through understanding. The place to begin is of course at the beginning, when first the white man came dominate and slander the African man. For our purposes this begins back in the colonial period of America when first the African people were brought across the ocean. Back then it is not unlikely that these people were treated much like any white compelled into indentured servitude (Takaki 53-4). However it seems clear to me that these black men most certainly would have been immediate outsiders, strangers from an "uncivilized" land lacking both English and Christian customs. These men were brought here expecting to be slaves or worse, and in all probability were not prepared for even the slim... ... Allen, Vicki. "Democrats Push Congress to Condemn Bob Jones Univ." Reuters. 29 Feb. 2000: http://dailynews.yahoo.com/h/nm/20000229/pl/congress_bobjones_3.html. Asante, Molefi Kete. "Luncheon Keynote Address." Greenberg 17-21. Fafwuna, A. Babs. "Education in the Mother Tongue." Greenberg 22-29. Greenberg, James, ed. "International and Multicultural Perspectives". Beltsville, MD: BelJean Printing, 2000. Orlando Taylor Speech. Videotape. Dir. James Greenberg. Narr. Orlando Taylor. Greenberg Class Video Set, 1990. Steele, Shelby. "Beyond Ebonics." Greenberg 30-31. Sutter, Rita. "When Yesterday's Tradition's are Thankfully Past." Greenberg 38-39. Takaki, Ronald. A Different Mirror : A History of Multi-Cultural America. New York: Bay Back Books, 1993. Weil, Danny. "Towards a Critical Multicultural Literacy" Greenberg 1-9.

Hepatitis Dates

Hepatitis Introduction to Health and Disease April 17, 2010 Hepatitis Introduction Hepatitis is a symptomatic infection that affects the liver. The most common types of Hepatitis virus are A, B, C, D and E. The history of hepatitis dates back to ancient times and the success of modern medicine have improved the prevention and treatment of most types of Hepatitis. The high risk groups include injectible drug users, hemodialysis patients, and those who have sexual contact with infected people. Hepatitis B and C are the leading cause of chronic liver disease and liver cancer in the United States. History History of Hepatitis is believed to go back as far as the ancient times. With today’s modern medicine scientists have discovered a major breakthrough in 1963 that identified a serum hepatitis known as Hepatitis B Virus (HBV). Ten years later, they found the cause of hepatitis infection and called it Hepatitis A Virus (HAV). In 1989, Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) was discovered. Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) was known in the 1970’s, but was better understood by scientists in the 1980-1990’s. Later the Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) was discovered in 1990. Etiology Hepatitis A (HAV) the least serious form and may develop as an isolated case of an epidemic. It is estimated that one out of every 3 people has been affected by HAV. Transmission of HAV is associated with close personal contact or contaminated food or water (Wilson, p. 13). Hepatitis B (HBV) is transmitted primarily by contact with infected blood, semen, and other bodily fluids. Injectable drug users, people with multiple sexual partners and homosexuals are at higher risk for contracting the B virus. Hepatitis B can severely damage a person’s liver, resulting in cancer (Nordqvist, 2009). Hepatitis C (HCV) is the most serious blood borne infection in the United States. The disease is often passed between drug users who share needles. People who are on dialysis and sexual contact are also at risk. The hepatitis virus is the leading cause of liver cancer and the most common reason for liver transplants (Wilson, 2005). Hepatitis D (HDV) is a defective virus that only if the people who are infected with Hepatitis B. The virus is transmitted through contact with infected blood, unprotected sex, and piercing of the skin with infected needles. The effects of HDV are more serious and progresses to chronic liver disease more frequently than virus A, B, or C. Hepatitis E (HEV) is the leading cause of epidemics around the world, but cases in the United States are rare. Primarily HEV is spread by fecal contaminated drinking water and there is no evidence that HEV progresses to chronic liver disease (Wilson, 2005). There have been no cases of HEV reported in the United States. Patients with Hepatitis A and B typically experience sudden unset of fever, malaise and fatigue, nausea and abdominal pain. Anorexia and jaundice may also be present. Hepatitis C is less forgiving as symptoms may not appear until the patient’s condition has progressed to cirrhosis or cancer (Neighbors & Tannehill-Jones, 2006). Populations affected by Hepatitis In the United States approximately 1. 2 million are living with Hepatitis B and 3. 2 are living with Hepatitis C. Estimated 25,000 people become infected with Hepatitis A. Many people do not know the virus infection exist in the body (CDC, 2009). The Center for Disease Control (2009) estimates 180 million people over the world is infected with HCV, of which four million are identified as cases in the United States. Each year 26,000 cases of HCV are diagnosed in the United States alone, and 10,000 to 12,000 deaths are contributed to HVC (Centers for Disease Control [CDC], 2009, p. 1). The hepatitis virus is the leading cause of liver cancer and the reason for liver transplants. In the United States approximately 1. 2 million are living with Hepatitis B and 3. 2 are living with Hepatitis C. Estimated 25,000 people become infected with Hepatitis A. Many people do not know the virus infection exist in the body (CDC, 2009). Treatment In July of 1982 the Hepatitis B vaccine was approved for use and thirteen years later (1995) the HAV vaccine was approved for use. These significant scientific breakthroughs have led a steady decline in the number of HAV and HBV cases in the United States. There is not a vaccine available for HCV but scientists are working hard to develop one. In addition to the vaccines some treatment options are available. HAV usually resolves itself and no specific treatment is needed. Treatment for HBV is Interferon which slows the progress of the disease in about 40% of patients (Neighbors & Tannehill-Jones, 2006). In addition to treating HBV Interferon is very effective for treating HCV. This antiviral slows the disease process about 30% of the time (Neighbors & Tannehill-Jones, 2006). There is not an effective treatment for HDV or HEV. Treatment for end stage cirrhosis or cancer caused by hepatitis may result in a liver transplant. Conclusion Hepatitis is a disease that causes an inflammation of the liver. There are several viruses that cause cirrhosis or cancer of the liver. Hepatitis A is a mild disease that typically resolves itself. The hepatitis B virus is more severe than A and less severe than C. The availability of vaccines for Hepatitis A and B has decreased the number of cases while Hepatitis C continues to infect high risk populations. Scientists continue to strive for a cure for Hepatitis C but in the meantime a people need to be aware of the disease and take steps the reduce the possibility of exposure. References Centers for Disease Control. (2009). Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Retrieved from http://www. cdc. gov/mmwr/PDF/ss/ss5803. pdf Neighbors, M. & Tannehill-Jones, R. (2006). Viral diseases acquired through alimentary and other routes. In Human diseases (pp. 201-203). Retrieved from https://ecampus. phoenix. edu/content/eBookLibrary2/content/eReader. aspx Nordqvist, C. (2009,  April). What is Hepatitis? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment. Medical News Today, (), Retrieved April 13, 2010 from http://www. medicalnewstoday. com/articles/145869. php Wilson, T. (2005). The ABCs of hepatitis. Th e Nurse Practitioner, 30(6), 12-18. Retrieved from Retrieved from CINAHL Plus with Full Text database.

Characteristics of a Good Research Problem

A research problem is a statement that provides the context for a research study.As stated by Brewer & Hughes, (2005).â€Å"Research problems indicate gaps in the scope or the certainty of our knowledge† (Brewer & Hughes, 2005, p. 39).They point to problematic phenomena, observed events that are puzzling in terms of our currently accepted ideas, or current ideas that are challenged by new hypotheses (Dissertation Mentoring Services, 2013).The research problem is the start of bringing to light and introducing the problem that the research will conclude with an answer. Further, according to Ellis and Levy (2008) the research problem is the initial phase in the scientific method. The methodology that is utilized should be applicable for the problem that guides the research. The methodology yields the outcomes of the study, which in turn produces the support required to facilitate the findings (Ellis & Levy, 2008). The purpose of this paper is to examine the characteristics of a r esearch problem.The focus is on the elements of what constitutes a researchable problem, the components of a well formed Statement of Research Problem, as well as what constitutes a reasonable theoretical framework for the need of the study. As stated by Leedy and Ormrod, (2005) â€Å"The research problem is the axis around which the whole research effort revolves (Leedy and Ormrod, 2005, p. 49). † Viable research cannot be deemed important without a well-defined understanding of why the research has been performed. There are several components that make research of noteworthy importance, such as the research needs to be researchable and manageable in size.Other characteristics include the degree of how the research will influence future research and other researchers by whether or not the findings will make a contribution to the body of knowledge, the explanation of the data and make a difference for others (Dissertation101 Mentoring Services, 2013). Influence of the researc h. Good research should advance the field in which it is geared toward as well as build on the current body of available research. The impact does not have to be huge, but it must be identifiable. The study should reveal how the researcher intends to take a different viewpoint and or direction.According to Leedy and Ormrod (2010) the research should direct the philosophy in different perceptions, as well as inspire further research to be conducted as it relates to the topic (Leedy & Ormrod, 2010). The advancement should reflect how the new methodologies will be used, along with the other current work, to help to better come to a conclusion in order to solve the problem (Brewer & Hunter, 2006). The problem is researchable and manageable in size. It is imperative to select a topic that is doable and that will allow many opportunities to conduct adequate primary research.Limitations such as the availability of answers should also be considered when thinking of a research problem. Addit ionally, time and expenses are of concern. Considering how long it will take to conduct the research is important as is whether or not the researcher has enough background knowledge to carry out the research, which may cause delays. The budget is a major factor and taking into consideration the kinds of tasks that will be needed, any paid assistants, specialized equipment, or software that needs to be created and/or acquired will help in estimating the amount of funds that will be needed to conduct the research.Explanation of the dataSince research requires data, it is important during the planning that the researcher analyzes beforehand whether or not any data related to the research problem can be produced. If not, then the research problem and the question may need to be changed. The decision of whether to use qualitative or quantitative data is important and based on the type of research. Once the data has been collected, the researcher must have a way to communicate the results .The data must be organized in a way that it merges the existing data with the new data to determine the quality based on the guidelines for collecting the data. Components of a Statement of Research Problem Essentially, the problem statement provides the basis for the research. The statement of the research problem reflects the general concern that leads to the specific problem and must be factual and clearly stated. Accordingly, it must be a brief precise description, which sets the premise for the problem to be studied.It distinguishes and states the underlying problems, if any and outlines the hypotheses, along with the research questions (Dissertation101 Mentoring Services, 2013). Precise, factual and clearly stated. Researcher seek to answer a question or to find a solution to a problem. Providing factual information to introduce the problem will change the perspective of what people think or know about the problem. As well the research should speak to the literature that is p revalent and to what is missing from this literature.Therefore, a statement of the problem needs to be precisely stated in one or two sentences that outlines the problem of the research. The statement of the problem should also address the question (Levy & Ellis, 2008). As stated by Levy and Ellis, (2008) â€Å"The problem statement is the statement of the problem and the argumentation for its viability. It should address all six questions, what, how, where, when, why, and who (Levy & Ellis, 2008, p. 27)†. Underlying sub-problems.Often times, research problems are too significant or very complicated be solved without breaking them down into smaller parts. The parts of the big problem are known as the sub-problems. The sub-problems make up a researchable component that will form together to equal the summation of the main problem. Division of the main problem is the fourth characteristic of formal research (Leedy & Ormrod, 2005). Presenting a hypothesis or research questions. The researcher must prepare a hypothesis related to the expectations what will be true of the results and conclusions of the study.The research problem, the goals, and the associated research questions and/or hypotheses are entwined in that a research goal is the main focus of the research that will be used to speak to the problem. Additionally, research questions help to simplify the goals into definite questions that the researcher would like answered (Creswell, 2005). According to Leedy and Ormrod (2005) by obtaining the answers to the research questions, the goals of the research will be satisfied and an impact regarding solving the problem has been made (Leedy & Ormrod, 2005).There has to be a recognizable association between the answers to the research questions and the research problem motivating the study (Ellis & Levy, 2008). A Problem Statement is based on a thorough review of the relevant literature and ongoing research. As stated by Leedy and Ormrod, (2005) â€Å"one es sential strategy is to find out what things are already known about your topic of interest; little can be gained by reinventing the wheel (Leedy and Ormrod, 2005, p. 51). † This provides the basis for a theoretical framework for the foundations and worthiness of the research problem.Theoretical Framework for the StudyTheoretical framework is the theory which enlightens and expounds the problem to be researched. The theory will also be used to observe the results. New theories solve research problems by explaining inexplicable occurrences and by overriding the uncertainty of older theories. The current theory directs researchers in creating and communicating research problems. In determining whether and in what respects a theory is problematic, researchers consider the context of accrued theoretical and experimental knowledge.The theories that appear to be challenging when observed in that context are then researched (Ellis & Levy, 2008). While the findings of research may be u nexpected, the research itself is planned. It is grounded in a theory. There should be a theoretical connection between the problem guiding the research and the research that is being directed to speak to that problem (Ellis & Levy, 2008).ConclusionA research problem statement is a concise description of a problem or challenge that does not currently have an adequate solution available, therefore, making it worthy of research. A problem statement refers to an issue that is focused on by the topic. It is, in essence, a situation that is in need of a solution. A well communicated problem drives the research. A statement of the research problem must be specific but brief and not something that refers to an isolated occurrence.It must be researchable and manageable while addressing the sub-problems and creating a hypothesis and research questions. The statement of the problem should introduce how the research develops from previous theory and how it may be able to add to the development of new theory in which to make advancements, realizing that ultimately, the purpose of research is to add to the knowledge of how the world operates in our quest to improve and expand our understanding.

Banking Scenario in Bangladesh Essay Example

Banking Scenario in Bangladesh Essay Example Banking Scenario in Bangladesh Essay Banking Scenario in Bangladesh Essay Rahmanir Rahim An Empirical Study of Performance of Islamic Banks in Bangladesh with special reference to Islami Bank Bangladesh Ltd By Shah Abdul Hannan, Former Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Government of Bangladesh and M. Fariduddin Ahmad Deputy Executive President Islami Bank Bangladesh Limited ________________________________________________ SECTION – I Banking Scenario in Bangladesh When Bangladesh came into existence on the 16th December, 1971, the banking sector of Bangladesh was in a total disarray. With the exception of two local banks incorporated in then East Pakistan, all the bigger local banks became inoperational.. Starting with such a humble   condition, the Banking Sector of Bangladesh has grown to a great extent. At present there are 49 Banks in Bangladesh. The structure of Banking in Bangladesh is as under: 1. Nationalized Commercial Banks 4 2. Specialized Banks 5 3. Private Sector Commercial Banks : a) Conventional Banks25 b) Islamic Banks 5 4. Foreign Commercial Banks a) Conventional Banks 9 b) Islamic Banks 1 Total49 - SECTION – II Genesis of Islamic Banking in Bangladesh In August 1974, Bangladesh signed the Charter of Islamic Development Bank and committed itself to reorganize its economic and financial system as per Islamic Shariah. In January 1981, the then President of People’s Republic of Bangladesh while addressing the 3rd Islamic Summit Conference held at Makkah and Taif suggested, â€Å"The Islamic countries should develop a separate banki ng system of their own in order to facilitate their trade and commerce. This statement of the President indicated favourable attitude of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh towards establishing Islamic banks and financial institutions in the country. Earlier in November 1980, Bangladesh Bank, the country’s Central Bank, sent a representative to study the working of several Islamic banks abroad. In November 1982, a delegation of IDB visited Bangladesh and showed keen interest to participate in establishing a joint venture Islamic Bank in the private sector. They found a lot of work had already been done and Islamic banking was in a ready form for immediate introduction. Two professional bodies Islamic Economics Research Bureau (IERB) and Bangladesh Islamic Bankers Association (BIBA) made significant contributions towards introduction of Islamic banking in the country. They came forward to provide training on Islamic banking to top bankers and economists to fill-up the vacuum of leadership for the future Islamic banks n Bangladesh. They also held seminars, symposia and workshops on Islamic economics and banking throughout the country to mobilise public opinion in favour of Islamic banking. Their professional activities were reinforced by a number of Muslim entrepreneurs working under the aegis of then Muslim Businessmen Society (now reorganised as Industrialist Businessmen Association). The body concentrated mainly in mobilising equity capital for the emerging Islamic bank. At last, the long drawn struggle to establish an Islamic bank in Bangladesh became a reality and Islami Bank Bangladesh Limited was established on 30th March, 1983 in which 19 Bangladeshi national, 4 Bangladeshi institutions and 11 banks, financial institutions and government bodies of the Middle East and Europe including IDB and two eminent personalities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia joined hands to make the dream a reality. Later, other 5 Islamic Banks were established in the country. 7 conventional banks have so far established Islamic Banking branches in some major cities. SECTION – III Comparative Position of Islamic Banking and Conventional Banking in Bangladesh. Deposits: Total deposits of the Banking Sector of Bangladesh stood at Taka 1,415,877 million as on 30. 06. 2005 of which Islamic Bank mobilized deposit to the tune of Taka 3031897 million i. e. their share in total deposits of the Banking system is 11. 98%. A detail analysis of deposits of all Banks vis-a-vis deposits of Islamic Banks by Type of Accounts is given in the following Table: Table – I Deposits distributed by Types of Accounts Amount in Million Taka (US $ 1=Taka 67. 50) |Sl. No. |Types of Accounts |All Banks |Islamic Banks |Share of Islamic banks (%) | | | |Nos. of Accounts |Amount | | | |Nos. of Accounts |% of total | | | |Nos. f Accounts | | |a) Long Term |91,664 |1. 11 | | |Project Finance | | | | |Amount |% of total |Amount |% of total | | |Urban |999,742 |89. 8 |152,146 |97. 27 |15. 22 | |Rural |117,579 |10. 52 |4,264 |2. 73 |3. 63 | | Total |1,117,321 |100 |156,410 |100 | | [pic] [pic] Islamic Banks All Banks Advances classified by Geographical Areas The Islamic Banks In Bangladesh could not yet make much headway in providing finance to rural areas as their operations are still limited to urban areas. The Islami Bank Bangladesh Limited, the first established Islamic Bank in Bangladesh, has reached to 4560 villages (out of 68,000 villages) of the country through their 101 branches and have so far provided finance amounting to Taka 4362 million to 164,116 rural poors, the recovery rate of which is 99%. Section – IV Operations of Islamic Banking in Conventional Banks In Bangladesh 6 conventional Banks namely, Prime Bank Limited, Dhaka Bank Limited, City Bank Limited, Premier Bank Limited, South East Bank Limited, Jamuna Bank Limited have taken the initiative of providing Islamic banking facilities within their existing set-up. They have established full-fledged Islamic branches and mobilized substantial amount of deposit, making investment and providing all types of banking services under Islamic modes. A Bank namely ‘Exim Bank’ was incorporated in 2002 as a conventional Bank but subsequently converted to an Islamic Bank. More conventional Banks are contemplating to establish Islamic branches in the near future. The above Banks have formed Shariah Council to oversee the operations of their Islamic Branches and they are also member of the Central Shariah Board for Islamic Banks of Bangladesh. The growth trend of deposit and investment of Islamic branches of the above 6 conventional Banks is highly satisfactory. Section – V Evaluation of Performance of Islamic Banks: Tools Instruments employed. 1. 00Concept and definition of Islamic Banking: General Secretariat of the OIC defined Islamic Banking as An Islamic Bank is a financial institution whose statutes, rules and procedures expressly state its commitment to the principles of Islamic Shariah and to the banning of the receipt payment of interest on any of its operations. 6. 02Modes of Deposit: Deposits are accepted by the Islamic Banks under the following Modes: 6. 02. 1  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Al-Wadeeah: The word Al-Wadeeah has been derived form the Arabic word Wadyun which means to keep/to deposit to give up, leave off etc. In Islamic Banking, the principle of Al-Wadeeah means, the Bank receives money from the clients for safe-custody with the condition to return the money on demand by the customer. Current Accounts are opened under this principle. Depositors authorise the Bank to use the money at Banks risk. The customer is not entitled to receive any benefit from the Bank. 6. 02. 2  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Al-Mudarabah: The word Mudaraba has been derived from the Arabic word Darb/Darbun which means movement to earn rahmat (Munafa) of Allah. Mudaraba is a form of partnership where one of the contracting parties called the Shahib-al-Maal or the Rabb-ul-Maal (the financier) provides a specified amount of capital and acts like a sleeping or a dormant partner while the other party, called the Mudarib (entrepreneur), provides the entrepreneurship and management for currying on any venture, trade, industry or service with the objectives of earning profits. The Mudarib is in the nature of a trustee as well as an agent of the business. Profit is distributed as per preagreed ratio while the loss is entirely borne by the Shahib-al-Maal. . 02. 3Al Mudarabah deposit Products: There can be many types of Mudarabah deposit products. The following are the title of some of the Mudarabah Products so far introduced by the Islamic Banks in Bangladesh:  ¦Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Mudarabah Special Notice Deposit  ¦Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Mudarabah Savings Deposit  ¦Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Mudarabah Term Deposit  ¦Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Mudarabah Savings Bonds  ¦Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Mudarabah Special Savings (Pension)  ¦Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Mudarabah Monthly Profit Deposit Scheme  ¦Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Mudarabah Muhar Savings   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Mudarabah Cash Waqf Deposit  ¦Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Mudarabah Hajj Deposit. 6. 03Modes of Investment: Investment can be made by the Islamic Banks under the following Modes: However, the Islamic Banks in Bangladesh have so far introduced Bai-Murabaha, Bai-Muajjal, Bai-Salam Hire purchase under Shirkatul Meelk Modes. 6. 03. 1  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Profit Loss Sharing Mode ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Shirkat/Musharaka The term refers to a financing technique adopted by Islamic Banks. It is an agreement under which the Islamic bank provides funds which are mingled with the funds of the business enterprise and others. All providers of capital are entitled to participate in the management but not necessarily required to do so. The profit is distributed among the partners in pre-determined ratios, while the loss is borne by each partner in proportion to his contribution. 6. 03. 2  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Profit sharing Loss bearing Mode: ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Al-Mudarabah The word Mudaraba has been derived from the Arabic word Darb/Darbun which means movement to earn rahmat (Munafa) of Allah. Mudaraba is a form of partnership where one of the contracting points called the Shahib-al-Maal or the Rabb-ul-Maal (the financier) provides a specified amount of capital and acts like a sleeping a dormant partner while the other party, called the Mudarib (entrepreneur), provides the entrepreneurship and management for caring on any venture, trade, industry or service with the objectives of earning profits. The Mudarib is in the nature of a trustee as well as an agent of the business. Profit in distributed as per preagreed ratio while the loss is entirely borne by the Shahib-al-Maal. . 03. 3  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Bai-Mode (Buying Selling): ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Bai-Murabaha: Literally, sale on profit. Technically, a contract of sale in which the seller declares his cost and profit. This has been adopted as a mode of financing by a number of Islamic Banks. As a financing technique, it involves a request by the client to the bank to purchase a certain item for him. The bank does that for a definite profit over the cost which is settled in advance. ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Bai-Muajjal: Literally, a credit sale. Technically, a financing technique adopted by Islamic Banks. It is a contract in which the seller allows the buyer to pay the price of a commodity at a future date in a lump sum or in installments. The price fixed for the commodity in such a transaction can be the same as the spot price or higher or lower than the spot price. ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Bai-Salam: This term refers to advance payment for goods which are to be delivered later. Normally, no sale can be effected unless the goods are in existence at the time of the bargain. But this type of sale forms and exception, to the general rule provided the goods are defined and the date of delivery is fixed. The objects of this type of sale are mainly tangible things but exclude gold or silver as these are regarded as monetary values. Barring these, bai-salam covers almost all things which are capable of being definitely described as to quantity, quality and workmanship. One of the conditions of this type of contract is advance payment; the parties cannot reserve their option of rescinding it but the option of revoking it on account of a defect in the subject matter is allowed. It is also applied to a mode of financing adopted by Islamic Banks. It is usually pplied in the agricultural sector where the bank advances money for various inputs to receive a share in the crop, which the bank sells in the market. ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Bai-Ishtisna: Istisnaa is a sale contract by which al-sani (the seller) on the basis of the order placed by al-mustasni (the buyer) after having manufactured or otherwise acquired al-masnoo (the goods) as per specification sells the same to al-mustasni for an agre ed upon price and method of settlement whether that be in advance, by instalments or deferred to a specific time. It is a condition of Istisnaa contract that al-sani should provide either the raw material or the labour.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Bai-Istijrar: Istijrar means purchasing goods from time to time in different quantities. In Islamic jurisprudence Istijrar is an agreement where a buyer purchases something from time to time; each time there is no offer or acceptance or bargain. There is one master agreement where all terms and conditions are finalized. There are two types of Istijrar:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Whereby the price is determined after all transactions of purchase are complete.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Whereby the price is determined in advances but the purchase is executed from time to time. The first kind is relevant with the Islamic mode of financing. This kind is permissible with certain conditions. a. In the case where the seller discloses the price of goods at the time of each transaction; the sale becomes valid only when the buyer possess the goods. The amount is paid after all transactions have been completed. b. If the seller does not disclose each and every time to the buyer the price of the subject matter, but the contractors know that it is being sold on market value and the market value is specified and determined in such a manner that it does not vary and it does not lead to differences of the contractors. . If at the time of possession, the price of subject matter was unknown or contractors agree that whatever the price shall be, the sale will be executed. However, if there is significant difference in the market price and the agreed price, it may cause conflict. In such a case, at the time of possession, the sale will not be valid. However, at the time of settlement of the payment, the sale will be valid. ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Bai-Musawamah: It refers to normal sale in which cost price is not known. ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Bai-Surf: It refers to the sale of gold, silver and currency.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Bai-Muqayada: It refers to barter sale excluding currency sale. 6. 03. 4Rent Sharing Mode: ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Ijarah (Lease) The term Ijarah has been derived from the Arabic works ‘’ (Ajr) and ‘ ’ (Ujrat) which means consideration, return, wages or rent. This is really the exchange value or consideration, return, wages, rent of service of an asset. Ijarah has been defined as a contract between two parties, the Hiree and Hirer where the Hirer enjoys or reaps a specific service or benefit against a specified consideration or rent from the asset owned by the Hiree. It is a hire agreement under which a certain asset is hired out by the Hiree to a Hirer against fixed rent or rentals for a specified period. ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Ijarah wa iqtina (Hire Purchase): This term refers to a mode of financing adopted by Islamic Banks. It is a contract under which the Islamic Bank finances equipment, building or other facility for the client against an agreed rental together with an undertaking from the client to purchase the equipment or the facility. The rental as well as the purchase price is fixed in such a manner that the bank ets back its principal sum along with some profit which is usually determined in advance. ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Hire purchase under Shirkatul Melk (HPSM): Hire Purchase under Shirkatul Melk is a special type of contract which has been developed through practice. Actually, it is a combination of three contracts viz: Shirkat, Ijarah and Sale. Shirkat means partnership. Shirkatul Melk means share in ownership. When two or more pers ons supply equity, purchase an asset, own the same jointly, and share the benefit as per agreement and bear the loss in proportion to their respective equity, the contract is called Shirkatul Melk contract. . 03. 5Production Sharing Mode: ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Mozarah: It is a contract in which one person agrees to Till the land of the other person in return for a part of the produce of the land. ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Musaqah: A contract in which the owner of the garden shares its produce with another person in return for his services in irrigating the garden. 6. 03. 6Quard-al-Hasana: A virtuous loan. A loan with the stipulation to return the principal sum in the futurewithout any increase. 7. 00Steps in the investment operations: ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Induction of the client ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Application ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Processing Appraisal   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Sanction ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Documentation ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Disbursement ?  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Monitorin g, End-use, Supervision Recovery 8. 00Fixation of sale price of Bai-Murabaha goods: A. Purchase price of the Goods Plus (+) B. Other expenditure incurred by the Bank in connection with the purchase, transportation and storage before sale of the goods to the client viz: i)Conveyance ii)Commission, if any, paid to agent iii)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Cost of remittance of Fund iv)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Transportation cost v)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Insurance vi)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Godown rent ii)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Other expenses if any. C. Total Cost Price (A+B) D. Profit Mark up E. Sale Price 8. 01Fixation of Rent under Rent Sharing Mode: 8. 01. 1  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Diminishing Balance Method: In this method the installments are not equal. Principal installment remains equal. Rent unequal i. e. calculated on t he outstanding principal. As at the initial stage principal outstanding remain higher so rent is higher which make the installment size larger. 8. 01. 2  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Equal Installment Method (Annuity Method): In this method the installments are equal. Principal Rent are unequal. Rent is calculated on the outstanding principal and the rest amount of installment is adjusted against Principal. At the initial stage principal outstanding remain higher so rent is higher anddecreased gradually. At the initial stage principal adjustment is less and increases gradually. The main difference between the Diminishing Balance Method and Annuity Method is that the Principal adjustment is not equal. As at the initial stage Principal adjustment is less the total Rent in this method is more than the Diminishing Balance Method. 8. 01.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Equal Installment Method (Equal Rent Method): In this method the installments are equal. Principal Rent remain equal. Rent is calculated for the whole period of Investment considering diminishing balance of Principal equally distributed all over the repayment period. Though the total rent on the investment in this case is equal to that of Diminishi ng Balance Method but the effective R. R. is less due to opportunity loss on the calculated but not realized rent for the 1st half of the repayment period. 9. 00Nature of Shariah Lapses generally occur in Investment Operations: . 01  Ã‚   Cash facilities are allowed to the client instead of investment through buying and selling of goods. 9. 02  Ã‚   Fresh investments are allowed for adjustment of previous liability of the client without proper buying and selling of goods. 9. 03  Ã‚   Letter of authority is not obtained from the client in case of investment against Bai-Murabaha (Post Import) and Bai-Murabaha under dealership license in the name of Investment Clients. 9. 04  Ã‚   Rent/Profit is charged and recovered for the gestation period under Hire Purchase Sunder Shirkatul Melk investment. . 05  Ã‚   Pre-fixed profit is recovered in the Pre-shipment Musharaka Investment instead of actual profit. 9. 06  Ã‚   Cash Memo obtained in the name of Client instead of in the nam e of the Bank. 9. 07  Ã‚   Cash Memo is not at all obtained. 9. 08  Ã‚   Agreements are kept blank and undated. 9. 09  Ã‚   Back dated/Post Dated cash Memo is obtained. 9. 10  Ã‚   The application for Payment Order/Demand Draft/T. T. etc. is signed by the Client instead of signing the same by the Bank. 9. 11  Ã‚   The amount of disbursement does not agree with the amount of Cash Memo. 9. 2  Ã‚   Goods are received directly by the Client instead of receipt of goods first by the Bank and then by the Client. 9. 13  Ã‚   Documents of receiving goods by the Branch are not available in the Branch record: 9. 14  Ã‚   Bai-Muajjal investment is allowed in case of Stock-lot items. 10. 00 Distribution of Profit to Mudaraba Depositors: The principles of calculation and distribution of profit to Mudaraba Depositors generally followed by different Islami Banks are as under: 10. 01. Mudaraba Depositors share income derived from investment of their fund. 0. 02. Mudaraba Depositors d o not share any income derived from miscellaneous banking services where use of their fund is not involved, such as commission, exchange, service charges and other fees realised by the Bank. 10. 03. Mudaraba Deposits get priority in the matters of investment over Banks equity and other cost free funds. 10. 04. The gross income derived from investments during the accounting year is, at first, allocated to Mudaraba Deposits and Equity cost-free-funds according to their proportion in the total investment. 10. 05. The share of gross investment income of Mudaraba Deposits as worked out in terms of principle shown against serial No 10. 04 is distributed as under: a) Bank retains a preagreed portion (say 20%) as management fee for managing the investment. b) Bank retains another preagreed portion (say 15%) for off-setting investment loss or with a view to maintaining a general level of return on Mudaraba Deposits. c) The remaining portion (say 65%) is distributed to Mudaraba Depositors applying weightages. 10. 06. Let us suppose that an Islami Bank applies the following weightages to Mudaraba Deposits. ) Mudaraba Hajj Savings Deposit 110% b) Mudaraba Term Deposits36 Months100% 24 98% 12 96% 06 92% 03 88% c) Mudaraba Savings 75% d) Mudaraba Short Notice 55% 10. 07. On the basis of the above principles, let us work out the rates of profit using the information and figures given below: a) Total InvestmentTk. 1000 b) Total Investment IncomeTk. 150 c) Total fund employed i) Banks equity and Al-Wadeea h Deposits Tk. 200 ii) Mudaraba DepositsTk. 800 Tk. 1000 Therefore the share of investment income of Mudaraba Deposit will be (150 ( 1000 ( 800) Tk. 120. 00 Less: ) 20% Management Fee Tk. 24. 00 b) 15% Loss Off-setting Reserve Tk. 18. 00 Tk. 42. 00 Distributable Investment Income Tk. 78. 00 |Sl. No |Type of Mudaraba |Yearly Product |Weightage |Weighted Product |Share of | | |Deposit | | | |Distributable | | | | | | |Profit | 1. 00Foreign Trade Foreign Exchange business under Islamic Framework: Musharaka can be used for Import Financing as well. There are two types of bank charges on the letter of credit provided to the importer: 11. 01Import Financing a. Service charges for opening an LC b. Interest charged on LCs, which are not opened on full margin. Collecting service charges for this purpose is allowed, but as interest cannot be charged in any case, experts have proposed two methods for financing LCs: a. Based on Musharakah/Mudarabah. b. Based on Murabaha. 1. 01. 1Musharakah/Mud arabah: This is the best substitute for opening the LC. The Bank and the importer can make an agreement of Musharakah or Mudarabah modes before opening the LC. If the LC is being opened at zero margin then an agreement of Mudarabah can be made, in which the bank will become Rab-ul-Mall and the importer Mudarib. The bank will own the goods that are being imported and the profit will be distributed according to the agreement. If the LC is being opened with a margin then a Musharakah agreement can be made. The bank will pay the remaining amount and the goods that are being imported will be owned by both of them according to their share of investment. The bank and the importer, with their mutual consent can also include a condition in the agreement, whereby; Musharaka or Mudarabah will end after a certain time period even if the goods are not sold. In such a case, the importer will purchase the Banks share at the market price. 11. 01. 2Bai-Murabahah: At present Islamic banks are using Bai-Murabaha, to finance LC. These banks themselves import the required goods and then sell these goods to the importer on Bai-Murabahah agreement. Bai-Murabahah financing requires the bank and the importer to sign at least two agreements separately; one for the purchase of the goods, and the other for appointing the importer as the agent of the bank (agency agreement). Once these two agreements are signed, the importer can negotiate and finalize all terms and conditions with the exporter on behalf of the bank. 11. 02Export Financing: A bank plays two very important roles in Exports. It acts as a negotiating bank and charges a fee for this purpose, which is allowed in Shariah. Secondly, it provides export-financing facility to the exporters and charge interest on this service. These services are of two types: a. Pre shipment financing b. Post shipment financing As interest cannot be charged in any case, experts have proposed certain methods for financing exports. 11. 02. 1Pre Shipment Financing: Pre shipment financing needs can be fulfilled by two methods a. Musharaka/Mudarabah b. Bai-Salam The most appropriate method for financing exports is Musharakah or Mudarabah. Bank and exporter can make an agreement of Mudarabah provided that the exporter is not investing; other wise Musharakah agreement can be made. Agreement in such case will be easy, as cost and expected profit is known. The exporter will manufacture or purchase goods and the profit obtained by exporting it will be distributed between them according to the predefined ratio. A problem that can be encountered by the bank is that if the exporter is not able to deliver the goods according to the terms and conditions of the importer, then the importer can refuse to accept the goods, and in this case exporters bank will ultimately suffer. This problem can be solved by including a condition in Mudarabah or Musharakah agreement that, if exporter violates the terms and conditions of export agreement then the Bank will not be responsible for any loss which arises due to this negligence. This condition is allowed in Shariah as the Rabb-ul-mal is not responsible for any loss that arises due to the negligence of Mudarib. 11. 02. 2 Bai-Salam: Bai-Salam is being used in Islamic Banks for export financing. Banks purchases goods that are to be exported at price that is less than the price agreed between the exporter and the importer. It then exports goods at the original price and thus earns profit. Bai-Salam financing requires bank and exporter to sign at least two agreements separately, one for the purchase of goods and the other for appointing the exporter as the agent of the bank (that is agency agreement). Once these two agreement are signed, the exporter can negotiate and finanlize all the terms and conditions with the importer on behalf of the bank. Post Shipment Financing: Post shipment finance is similar to the discounting of the bill of exchange. Its alternate Shariah compliant procedure is discussed below: The exporter with the bill of exchange can appoint the bank as his agent to collect receivable on his behalf. The bank can charge a fee for this service and can provide Quard-al-Hasana to the exporter, which is equal to the amount of the bill, and the exporter will give his consent to the bank that it can keep the amount received from the bill as a payment of the loan. Here two processes are separated, and thus two agreements will be made. One will authorize the bank to collect the bill amount on his behalf as an agent, for which he will charge a particular fee. The second agreement will provide Quard-al-Hasana to the exporter, and authorize the bank for keeping the amount received through bill as a payment for Quard-al-Hasana. Section – VII National International ratings of the Pioneer Islamic Bank â€Å"Islami Bank Bangladesh Limited†. IBBLs past performances have been evaluated by Bangladesh Bank, several credit rating agencies home abroad and by the local press. International Press â€Å"In the midst of a difficult Banking system known to be plagued by high non-performing loans (NPLs), one could easily conclude that it would be difficult to find a bank that is different from norm. However, IBBL provides a refreshing change and is, thus, a pleasant surprise. Although it does not command the market share as the 4 public sector banks, IBBL, which claims to have little interference in lending from the government, has nonetheless, managed to find a niche market of its own-says the ‘BANK WATCH’ a New York based international Credit Rating Agency in its January 30, 1998 issue. â€Å"As a market leader offering banking services based on the Islamic rule of Shariah, IBBLs profitability trend has been quite impressive. The Banks ability to keep its return on asset (ROA) well above the industrys average, reflected its resilience to possible shocks in the banking system. Concerns over massive NPLs and under provisioning are common amongst local banks. But this seems well resolved in IBBL. IBBLs good performance and solid capital base have indeed provided refreshing change found within a banking system saddled and held back by huge NPLs† the above agency continued to comment in the same ssue. National Press â€Å"It is one of a few local banks according to CAMEL (Capital, Assets, Management, Earnings Liquidity) rating made by the Bangladesh Bank. It holds the highest amount of liquidity among all banks and its ability to keep return on assets at 1. 07 percent is well above the banking sectors average of 0. 33 percent†- The Financial Express, Dhaka commented in its issue of May 28,1998. The Holiday† in its 29th August, 1997 issue carried out a report under the heading â€Å"Setting a precedence of sound banking† and commented â€Å"While the countrys banking system is burdened with bad debt portfolios and also suffers from a liquidity shortage, the Islami Bank Bangladesh Ltd. (IBBL) has created a unique precedence by improving its reserve and deposit positions substantially, making handsome profits, and offering attractive dividends to its share holders and depositors. † IBBLs World rating As per Bankers Almanac (2006 edition) published by the Reed Business Information, Windsor Court, England, IBBLs world Rank is 1620 among 3000+ banks selected by them and country rank 5 among 49 Banks. CRISL, a Joint Venture credit rating Agency, operating in Bangladesh rated IBBL ‘ST-I’, highest grade which means highest certainty of timely payment. Short term liquidity including internal fund generation is very strong and access to alternative sources of funds is outstanding. Safety is almost like risk free government short term obligations. Success Stories of Islamic Bank Bangladesh Limited: The IBBL has many success stories of achievements. These are summarised below : One :IBBL is the pioneer institution for introduction of Islamic Banking in Bangladesh. Two :The success of IBBL has imbibed other sponsors at home and abroad to establish Islamic Banking in Bangladesh. Four national, one international Islamic banks have since been established in the country. 6 private sector traditional banks have also established several Islamic Banking branches. Several other existing traditional banks have also expressed their intention to introduce Islamic Banking. Three:IBBL has successfully mobilised deposits from a section of people who hither-to-before did not make any deposit with interest based banks. Four :The Islamic Banking products which are offered by IBBL through its 169 branches located at important centres all over the country and spontaneous acceptance of those products by the people proves the superiority of Islamic banking. Five :IBBLs market share of deposit investment and ancillary business is steadily increasing. Six :IBBL, though still a tiny bank, handles more than 10% of countrys export and import trade. Seven:Among the contemporary commercial Banks IBBLs position is first in respect of mobilisation of deposit, deployment of fund and earning profit. Eight:Investment in industrial sector occupies about 38% of IBBLs investment portfolio. This is a unique example of industrial finance by a commercial Bank. Nine:More than 2,00,000 workers are employed in the industrial projects financed by IBBL. IBBL has thus made significant contribution to solving unemployment problem of the country. Ten:Dhaka- the capital of Bangladesh being a Mega city- has acute transport problem. IBBL has joined hands with an enterprising group to introduce a fleet of Premium Bus service which has attracted the attention of all section of the people and mitigated transportation problem of the city to some extent. Eleven:IBBL has introduced several other welfare oriented investment schemes, such as Small Transport Investment Scheme, Small Business Investment Scheme, Agriculture Implements Investment Scheme, Poultry Investment Scheme, Household Durable Investment Scheme, Housing Investment Scheme etc. Twelve :IBBL launched a Rural Development Scheme for providing finance to drown trodden section of the populace an area where no other Commercial Bank has extended any finance. IBBLs mission is to reach to all 68,000 villages of the country as early as possible. Thirteen :IBBL has contributed 3000 million Taka as income tax to the Government Exchequer on its net profit over the last 22 years. Fourteen :At the initiative and drive of IBBL, several Universities in Bangladesh have introduced Courses on Islamic Banking and finance. Fifteen :IBBL has organised a good number of national and international Seminars on Islamic Banking and Economics. Importantly, IBBL sponsored a Seminar at Dhaka with a view to forming an Islamic Common Market. Sixteen :IBBL has earned reputation in the country as a corruption free Institution. Seventeen :IBBL is held in high esteem in the banking circle as a good managed bank. Eighteen :Under the leadership of IBBL, Bangladesh Association of Banks (BAB) has been formed. This is a platform to ventilate the stand-points on banking issues of the private sector banks. Nineteen :IBBL has established a foundation called ‘Islami Bank Foundation’ for carrying out social welfare activities. The foundation has taken up a number of schemes covering the whole of Bangladesh. A sum of Taka 1000 million has so far been spent in social welfare activities. Some important Schemes of the Foundation are Welfare Activities of Islami Bank Foudnation Income generating scheme The objective of this scheme is to encourage unemployed youths in nation building activities and to make them self reliant. This scheme has been taken up to train rural health workers and to fund poultry, pisci-culture, cottage industry, small trading, in addition to providing rickshaws, sewing machines etc. for income and employment generation. Educational Scheme Scholarship stipend are awarded to the poor and meritorious students under this scheme. Health Scheme This scheme has been taken up to establish child and maternity centres, charitable dispensaries, provide grants for medical treatment of the poor, install tube-wells for the supply of pure drinking water and build sanitary latrines in order to fulfill health needs of the rural people. Humanitarian Assistance Humanitarian assistance are provided to the poor, disabled persons, families affected by river erosion and for marriage of poor girls. Emergency Relief Operations Financial assistance to the people affected by natural calamities is provided under this scheme. Service Centre The Foundation has been establishing permanent service centres in coastal areas and off-shore islands to be used for the purpose of integrated social development as well as safe shelter during natural disaster. HRD Programme Under HRD programme, the foundation has established several Technical Training Centres for imparting vocational training and kindergarten Schools. Projects like mosque based income generating centres and prisoner rehabilitation projects are expected to be established in the near future. Assistance to Mosque Financial assistance for construction, extension and renovation of mosques are provided under this scheme. Sales Centre Foundation has established sales centres to encourage poor women folk for self employment and for marketing home made garments, handicrafts and other items produced by them. Islami Bank Hospital The Foundation has set up hospitals for providing modern medical treatment to all sections of the people at reasonable cost. By now, the Islami Bank Hospitals have earned good reputation in the society. Problems Specific to Islamic Banking in Bangladesh 1. Shortage of Supportive and Link Institutions Any system, however well integrated it may be, cannot thrive exclusively on its built-in elements. It has to depend on a number of link institutions and so is the case with Islamic banking. For identifying suitable projects, Islamic banking can profitably draw the services of economists, lawyers, insurance companies, management consultants, auditors and so on. They also need research and training forums in order to prompting entrepreneurship amongst their clients. Such support services properly oriented towards Islamic banking are yet to be developed in Bangladesh. 2. Lack of Organising Relationship with Foreign Banks Another important issue facing Islamic banks in Bangladesh is how to organise their relationships with foreign banks, and more generally, how to conduct international operations. This is, of course, an issue closely related to the creation of financial instruments, which would be simultaneously consistent with Islamic principles and acceptable to interest-based banks, including foreign banks. . Long-term Financing Islamic Banks stick very closely to the pricing policies of the government. They can not benefit from hidden costs and inputs, which elevate the level of prices by certain entrepreneurs without any justification. On the other hand, Islamic banks as financial institutions are even more directly affected by the failure of the projects they finance. This is because the built in security for getting back their funds, togeth er with their profits, is in the success of the project. Prospects of Islami Banking in Bangladesh Despite the above problems and shortcomings the Islamic Banks have the following further prospects to grow: a) Islamic bank investment portfolio can be diversified and extended for long term financing under Musharaka and Mudaraba. b) The clients of the Islamic Bank may be equipped with knowledge of Islamic banking through seminars and symposia. c) Islamic banks can develop unanimous Shariah Manual or guide lines for day to day consultation and clientele motivation. d) Islamic Banks can expand their network in the rural areas of Bangladesh. ) The research and development (R D) for Islamic Economics, Banking and Finance can be geared up. f) Co-operation among Islamic banks can be extended throughout the world. g) Muslim countries, who have established Islamic banks, if involve with international trade on Islamic principles, that would contribute to grow international transactions under interest-free system. This will further help developing an Islamic Common Market. h) The central ban ks of the Muslim Countries can help creation of environment for Islamic Banking with more responsibilities. ) Uniform accounting systems and standards already developed by the Accounting Auditing Organisation for Islamic Financial Institutions for providing consistency in accounting treatment of various operations and products of Islamic banks may be introduced by all concerned. j) New and ‘innovative’ products can be designed for financing on Profit and Loss sharing basis.

Islamist movements Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Islamist movements - Assignment Example Hamas is best known throughout the world for carrying out Suicide bombings and other homicidal attacks against Israeli civilians to further its goal of creating an Islamic Republic of Palestine in the area that is now Israel, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. However, the views of these Islamist movements as portrayed by the Western media has also shifted ideologically even though they are still, at large, dispersed in both positive and negative directions. In particular, the way the media of the West has recorded speeches delivered by the leaders of these groups is moving in a different direction. This research study is, therefore, aimed to initiate an investigation into the area of an ideological shift in the portrayal of these speeches and rhetoric by Western media. To make it more precise, this issue will be addressed from the viewpoint of the British and French media and how they have shifted in depicting the speeches and rhetoric of Osama bin Laden and Hamas movement of Palestine. The aim here is to look into the underlying causes of this shift, the way these speeches were portrayed before and the way they are portrayed now. The west waged a war against Afghanistan's fundamentalist groups and then against the dictator leadership in Iraq. However, the true war started right after the collapse of the twin towers when the TV screens, newspapers and magazines of the west launched a media attack against those suspected in the attacks. Islam was defined as a portrait of Bin Laden and terrorism. The term Islamic Fundamentalist was given life as a very negative, degrading or anti-western term in the western dominated media. As a result, a counter attack was launched by Islamist movements. Interviews of Bin Laden were published in the Middle Eastern press, videotapes were launched, audio files released widely over the internet casting views of these movements. The reaction of the West to these releases can however be seen as a transition of responses in which, initially the portrayal was very negative but gradually it entered into reasonableness. Forums and discussions started taking place in which both Western ideologists and Muslim scholars took part. While a marked improvement in the perception of Islam within the Western countries can be acknowledged, yet the beleaguering tendency to portray a distorted image of Islam within their media still remains intact. This study will, therefore, enable a better understanding of why these media were biased, if ever and what exactly are the ways that should be adopted to remove any biasness if there ever was. According to a discussion conducted by the BBC on perceptions of Islam in the British media, "Islam in the British media will continue to improve. More and more journalists are now anxious to pursue the truth. The BBC world Service in English has frequently sought Liberty's opinion on and analysis of developments in various parts of the Arab world. Today many more journalists and producers than ever before are anxious to provide their audience with fuller stories, clearer pictures and fairer images.". (Perceptions of Islam in the BBC and other Western media) The fact cannot be denied about recent awareness on the part of some journalists, TV and radio producers and commentators of covering some Islamic issues in a more objective manner. The coverage of the Bosnian tragedy as well as of the Chechnyan problem by the British media has been quite fair in spite of the biased policy of the