Cover Story: DiplomatiC interview
Interview with H.E. Mr Hamed Saif Al-Rawahi Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to India
“There is a historic trust and goodwill between Oman and India” India Empire’s Editor and Publisher Sayantan Chakravarty met with the Ambassador of the Sultanate of Oman to India, H.E. Mr Hamed Saif Al-Rawahi who went on to answer questions on bilateral ties, business developments, tourism opportunities and the expat community among several other subjects
Do you feel that Oman’s engagement with India on the bilateral front is being taken to the next higher level now? Relationship between Sultanate of Oman and Republic of India has been very cordial since time immemorial. There is a definite consolidation and up gradation of the ties between the two nations as visible from the enhanced engagement on business and defence matter. On geo-political level both countries have almost identical approach to many a complex problem in Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Historically the Royal family of Oman has an intimacy with India. Please talk us through this… India has been a preferred place for the Royalty of Sultanate of Oman to study, interact, recreate and rejuvenate. It has more to do the historic trust and goodwill handed down from generations to younger generations. There is a visible people to people connect and Royals of Oman have always felt at home while in India. H.M. Sultan Qaboos Bin Said received part of his early education in Salubrious climes of Pune. 6
india empire | november 2016
The Indian expatriate community has played a significant role in the building of Oman, and this has been acknowledged by the Omani Government. What are your views on this? Indian expatriate community has been an integral part of all the visible development in MENA regions, Oman is no exception. However the difference is visible in the per capita satisfaction level of Indian working in Oman, which is far higher as compared to any other country in MENA. It is primarily due to liberal policies of H.M. Sultan Qaboos where expats are treated with equal dignity care and allowed to practice their faith freely. What is the presence of Omani companies in India like? There are many Omani companies in India, notable among them is Galfar Engineering & Contracting LLC, Khimji Ramdas, Suhail Bahwan Group, Oman Tourism Development Company SAOC, Al-Hassan Group of Companies, Nova Medical Centers Middle East LLC, and Joint Venture Bharat Oman Refineries Limited (BORL) which is promoted by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL and Oman Oil Company S.A.O.C (LLC), known as
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MOVING UPWARD: Under the charge of H.E. Mr Hamed Saif Al-Rawahi, India-Oman ties are poised to go to the next higher level
november 2016 | india empire
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Cover Story: DiplomatiC interview
WORK STATION: While at office, Ambassador Al-Rawahi attends to a series of issues that his country wants expedited with India
BINA Refinery. There are other Joint Ventures based at Oman i.e. Oman India Fertilizer Company (OMIFCO), (Sur-Oman), Jindal Steel & Power Ltd (JSPL- Sohar, Oman), L& T have four mega Joint venture in Oman (L & T Oman LLC, L&T Electromech LLC, L & T Modular Fabrication Yard LLC, and L & T Heavy Engineering LLC with Zubair Group in Oman).
Which are the major areas of bilateral cooperation that we can expect in the near future? Major areas of bilateral cooperation will generally remain same as we see today. At the same time the engagement in hydrocarbon sector, maritime security, anti terrorist operations, edible and other commodities, health and software is likely be on an upward trajectory.
What is the presence of Indian companies in Oman like? Many India companies in Public sector and private sector are working In Oman. These are Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd, EdClL(India) Limited, Jindal Steel & Power Limited, Engineers Indian Limited, Krishak Bharti Cooperative Limited, Brakes India Limited, Punj Lloyd Limited, Nagarjuna Construction Company Limited, Reliance Wealth Management Limited, and NBCC etc.
There are several MoUs between Indian and Oman on cooperation in agriculture, civil aviation, manpower. How are they progressing? MoUs when signed have definite road map for the respective project to move forward. We see most such projects are moving as per plan. It is imperative to note there are very few project related disputes/disagreement among the two friendly countries and those also are being settled through pre-defined mutually acceptable mechanism.
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india empire | october 2016
DIPLOMATIC EASE: Ambassador Al-Rawahi is at ease while discussing a diverse range of topics with India Empire Magazine
Is Oman playing a part in Make in India Mission of the Government of India? Oman is an active partner of ‘Make in India’ mission of India. Omani companies directly and in Joint venture with local/foreign companies are exploring many avenues of participation in this flagship project of Government of India. By manufacturing in Indian Omani companies have not only access to vast Indian market but also to the markets of those countries with whom India has free trade agreement i.e. Sri Lanka, Nepal etc.
Oman has a unique charm for a tourist. Only discerning few are able to appreciate that and take up the visit of Sultanate of Oman as tourists
Are you promoting Oman in India as a major tourism destination in the Gulf ? Oman has a unique charm for a tourist. Only discerning few are able to appreciate that and take up the visit of Sultanate of Oman as tourists. While most Indians are in Oman for work related engagement the awareness of the tourism potential of Sultanate is growing among Indians and we see a steady growth in the number of tourists visit Oman for tourism and recreation and recently the Indians have started to do their wedding events in Oman and being organized by Omanis. What are the major high-level visits from either side that are on the anvil? There are numerous high level visits scheduled for the ongoing and future engagement between the two countries. Most notable among those is Defence and Petroleum. â?? november 2016 | india empire
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VISITING DIGNITARIES
British Prime Minister Ms Theresa May with India Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi in New Delhi in November
Israeli President H.E. Reuven Rivlin with Indian Prime Minister Mr Modi in New Delhi in November
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MINISTERS ON THE MOVE
Union Minister for Urban Development, Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, and Information and Broadcasting Mr M. Venkaiah Naidu soon after inaugurating the HUDCO stall at the 36th India International Trade Fair (IITF-2016) at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, in November
Minister of State for Commerce and Industry (Independent Charge) Ms Nirmala Sitharaman calls on the Prime Minister of Bhutan Mr. Tshering Tobgay in Thimpu, Bhutan in November
20 india empire | november 2016
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CM TAlES
Chief Ministers Ms Mamata Banerjee and Mr Arvind Kejriwal at a rally in north Delhi in November
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Chief Minister of Kerala Mr Pinarayi Vijayan meets Union Minister for Civil Aviation Mr Ashok Gajapathi Raju Pusapati in New Delhi in November
24 india empire | november 2016
SpeCial ColUmn on law & DiplomaCy
STARTup INDIA The Government of India has antential for commercialization, or nounced ‘Startup India’ initiative for creatb. undifferentiated products or services or ing a conducive environment for startup in processes, or India. The various Ministries of the Govc. products or services or processes with ernment of India have initiated a number no or limited incremental value for cusof activities for the purpose. To bring unitomers or workflow would not be covered formity in the identified enterprises, an enunder this definition. tity shall be considered as a ‘Startup’a) Up to five years from the date of its in5. The process of recognition as a corporation/registration, ‘Startup’ shall be through mobile app/porb) If its turnover for any of the financial tal of the Department of Industrial Policy years has not exceeded Rupees 25 and Promotion. Startup will be required crore, and to submit a simple application with any of c) It is working towards innovation, defollowing documents: velopment, employment or commera) a recommendation (with regard Mr K K Anand cialization of new products processes to innovative nature of business), in a foror services driven by technology or intellectual property; mat specified by Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, from any Incubator established in a Provided that any such entity formed by splitting up or repost-graduate college in India; or construction of a business already in existence shall not be b) a letter of support by any incubator which is funded (in considered a ‘Startup’; relation to the project) from Government of India or any Provided further that in order to obtain tax benefits a State Government as part of any specified scheme to prostartup so identified under the above definition shall be remote innovation; or quired to obtain a certificate e of an eligible business from the c) a recommendation (with regard to innovative nature of Inter-Ministerial Board of Certification consisting of: business), in a format specified by Department of Indusa) Joint Secretary, Department of Industrial Policy and Protrial Policy and Promotion, from any Incubator recognized motion by Government of India; or b) Representative of Department of Science and Technold) a letter of funding of not less than 20 per cent in eqogy, and uity by any Incubation Fund / Angel Fund / Private Eqc) Representative of Department of Biotechnology. uity Fund / Accelerator / Angel Network duly registered with Securities and Exchange Board of India that enExplanation: dorses innovative nature of the business. Department of 1. An entity shall cease to be a startup on completion of five Industrial Policy and Promotion may include any such years from the date of its incorporation/registration or if fund in a negative list for such reasons as it may deem fit; its turnover for any previous years exceeds Rupees 25 or crore. e) a letter of funding by Government of India or any State 2. Entity means a private limited company (as defined in the Government as part of any specified scheme to promote Companies Act, 2013), or a registered partnership firm innovation; or (registered under section 59 of the Partnership Act, 1932) f) a patent filed and published in the Journal by the Indian or a limited liability partnership (under the Limited LiaPatent Office in areas affiliated with the nature of busibility Partnership Act, 2002). ness being promoted. 3. Turnover is as defined under the Companies Act, 2013. 4. An entity is considered to be working towards innovation, 6. An incubator shall be required to meet the following four development, deployment or commercialization of new criteria in order to be awarded a certificate of recognition products, process or services driven by technology or infrom Government of India. The key parameters along with tellectual property if it aims to develop and commercialthe benchmark set for selection as seen in Table 1. ize: The certificate of recognition shall be valid for a definite a. A new product or service or process, or b. A significantly improved existing product or service or period of time which would be two (2) years from the date of process, that will create or add value for customers or grant of recognition. In case, an incubator fails to justify its workflow. roles and responsibilities or if found to be misrepresenting any information, the recognition status of the incubator shall be Provided that the mere act of developing: revoked, However, previous recommendations from the incua. products or services or processes which do not have po- bator to the Startups shall still remain valid. 30 india empire | november 2016
S. No.
Parameter
Benchmark
1.
Number of years of establishment
The Incubator should be in existence for at least the last 2 years. This benchmark of existence for at least 2 year shall not be applicable for incubators which have received a sanction letter*1 by the Central/State Government
2A
Number of incubatees currently enrolled
2B
Number of incubatees graduated
The incubator should have a minimum of 20 incubates graduated*2 or on rolls at present i.e. at the time of filling of application. For incubators which have received a sanction letter*1 by the Central / State Government a minimum of 5 incubatees should have graduated*2 or on rolls at present i.e. at the time of filling of application
3
Availability of Infrastructure
The incubator should have a minimum of 5000 sq. feet of carpet are a dedicated to the incubatees
4
Contact period of engagement
The incubator should facilitate at least 3 months of in person or virtual interactions between its incubatees and mentors
A recognized incubator shall be evaluated on the following parameters after six months of obtaining the certificate of recognition. The certificate of recognition shall be reconsidered in case the recognized incubator is found wanting on fulfillment of the following stated parameters (Table 2): S. No.
Parameter
1.
Incubator engagement with Venture Capital Funds/Alternate Investment Funds For the purpose of this parameter, the number of tie-ups between the Incubator and Venture Capital Fund and Alternate Investment Fund shall be considered.
2.
Incubator engagement with Corporates For the purpose of this parameter, the number of tie-ups between the Incubator and Corporate Organizations to provide industry exposure to the Incubatees shall be considered.
3.
Number of mentors associated with the Incubator For the purpose of this parameter, the number of mentors providing in person or virtual mentorship to the Incubatees shall be considered.
4.
Number of outreach conducted by the Incubator
programmes*3
For the purpose of this parameter, the number of outreach programmes conducted in the previous one year shall be considered.
*1
*2
*3
7. The Startup Regime proposes to achieve the following avowed objectives:1) To recognize and identify incubators that are eligible to provide the said recommendation letter. This would enable Startups to access a wider base of incubator(s) to obtain the same. 2) To reduce the regulatory burden on Startups thereby allowing them to focus on their core business and keep compliance cost low 3) To create a single point of contact for the entire Startup ecosystem and enable knowledge exchange and access to funding 4) To serve as the single platform for Startups for interacting with Government and Regulatory Institutions for all business needs and information exchange among various stakeholders 5) To promote awareness and adoption of IPRs by Startups and facilitate them in protecting and commercializing the IPRs by providing access to high quality Intellectual Property services and resources, including fast-track examination of patent applications and rebate in fees. 6) To provide an equal platform to Startups (in the manufacturing sector) vis-à-vis the experienced entrepreneurs/ companies in public procurement. 7) To make it easier for Startups to wind up operations 8) To provide funding support for development and growth of innovation driven enterprises 9) To catalyse enterpreneurship by providing credit to innovators accross all sections of society 10) To promote investments into Startups by mobilizing the capital gains arising from sale of capital assets. ❐ —The author is Founding and Managing Partner of Anand Law Practice. He can be reached at kamalkanand@anandlawpractice.com
Sanction letter is issued by a government (Central/State) entity to an incubator mentioning the quantum of amount sanctioned as well as the staging of the release based on the sanction amount. An incubator is expected to be in line with the sanctioned proposal and tailored activities to attain the projected milestones. Graduated: This implies that the students enrolled have successfully completed their programme and have at least prototyped their product/service and have or are ready for commercialization of their product/service. Outreach Programmes: This implies the number of sessions conducted in order to promote enrollments by students in the incubation programme.
november 2016 | india empire 31
JoUrney with a himalayan maSter Swami rama
Book: Journey with a Himalayan Master Swami Rama Author: Mohan Swami Publisher: Sayantan Chakravarty Printing Solutions: India Empire Publications Pages: 552 Price: ` 425/- US$ 20 To Buy: +91.11.2923.1515 32 india empire | november 2016
JoUrney with a himalayan maSter Swami rama
excerpts from preface
T
his book is an account of my journey in search of the ultimate truth and a sincere desire to share some of the spiritual experiences I have had in my life. There will be many readers who might scoff at these experiences as figments of my imagination, and there will be yet others who might look at me suspiciously. But more importantly, there will also be a few who may share this most sacred passion for the absolute truth and recognize the reality in these experiences. This book is dedicated to those few, but above all it is a tribute to my Gurudev, Swami Rama, and the unsurpassed love I have received and am still receiving from him. It is a journey that must have started several lifetimes ago. I wish I could recall those lifetimes in all their totality but being a mere mortal such powers are beyond me. And the Gods will not reveal that which we do not need to know. I wonder if I will be able to reach the end of my journey in this lifetime or if I will need to take more births. I can only hope that my Gurudev will give me the grace to reach the end of the journey in this life. There are a number of reasons for this need to tell the story of my spiritual life. I’m just an ordinary person, from a very ordinary family with an uneventful childhood and young adult life, yet I’ve done and experienced things the average person probably only dreams about. As such I would like the people, especially the young people, who read this book to realise that nothing is impossible. And finally, I would like to assure those readers who are seeking enlightenment that the Gods and higher forces will grant you their grace if you are a genuine seeker. I was at a point in my life in year 2000 where I needed to rethink my goals and aims for the future. I had become increasingly torn by feelings that I had not been doing what I was meant to do with my life, and that this is not the path that my spiritual guru had meant for me, although he had put me on it for certain reasons. As a result, there was a feeling of dissatisfaction, not only with myself, but also with the environment I was in at that moment. The wish to spend more of my time and energies doing something for Malaysia and its people, to give some of what I’ve been blessed with to those less fortunate, had become a driving need. Yet I felt there was still more I could achieve in the business world and was reluctant to give up everything I had worked hard to build thus far. I had achieved what I set out to do, but the question
now was whether I was ready to give it all up and focus on an entirely new area. All of us are seeking something in life and I am no exception. Whether it is the pursuit of material wealth, or pleasure or God, we are always looking for more from life. We constantly want something or other, and even on the deathbed we find it hard to let go. I’ve not met many who can truly say they are satisfied and they have enough. Of course there are people who have remained static, but that does not mean they are happy about it. I am, if anything, more driven by ambition than the average person, for I have always wanted to be the best. I did not have to make any effort to cultivate this passion for perfection. It has been a part of me as far back as I can remember. Whatever I did I had to give it my best. The outcome was not important, but the satisfaction that I had carried out the task to the best of my ability was, even if I achieved only 50 or 60 percent of what I had set out to do. But usually the results have been good, whether because of luck, or divine help or just the extra edge from having given my best to the endeavour. I’ve tried to analyse this need to excel and believe it might be the reason why I have been able to achieve surprising results in almost everything I have done so far. It might also be the reason for my restlessness and the need to keep moving on to further and more challenging horizons. I am hopeful that recording my thoughts and some of the major events of my life may perhaps give me an insight into what I should do. I could ask my guru for guidance, but at the end of the day it would still have to be my decision. Destiny has taken me pretty far in the corporate world, from a medical practitioner in Kota Kinabalu to chairman of several companies. But as I grow older, the wheeling and dealing that is unavoidable in the corporate world has become more distasteful and is no longer acceptable. When a man reaches 60 years he has to look at different goals. What is challenging to a 25-year-old becomes routine for a man of my age and stature for I’ve been there and I’ve done that. What was pleasure and challenge at 25 has become a bore at 60. Even more so for me, as I’ve always been spiritually inclined, always looking for a deeper meaning to life and wondering where all my endeavors will ultimately lead me. This inner quest has been both a boon and a bane. It has been responsible for my success but it also sets me apart, making me dissatisfied and pushing me to seek new frontiers. ❐ november 2016 | india empire 33
JoUrney with a himalayan maSter Swami rama
Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev launches the book Journey with a Himalayan Master Swami Rama in Dehradun on November 13, 2016 in the presence of Swami Ritavan Bharati (centre), Dr Vijay Dhasmana (Vice Chancellor, Swami Rama Himalayan University) and Tan Sri Datuk Dr Mohan Swami (Chancellor, Swami Rama Himalayan University). Gurudev—Swami Rama—entered Mahasamadhi on November 13, 1996
Swami Ritavan Bharati is honoured by Baba Ramdev in the presence of Dr Vijay Dhasmana
34 india empire | november 2016
JoUrney with a himalayan maSter Swami rama
Baba Ramdev released a DVD on Nada Bindu
Publisher of Journey with a Himalayan Master Swami Rama, Sayantan Chakravarty, receives a recognition from Baba Ramdev november 2016 | india empire 35
JoUrney with a himalayan maSter Swami rama
LEFT: Tan Sri Datuk Dr Mohan Swami recognizes Baba Ramdev. RIGHT: Baba Ramdev gives the Swami Rama Humantarian Award 2016 of the Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust to Dr Vibha Gupta. A committee headed by former CJI Mr M N Venkatachaliah selected her
LEFT: Dr Vijay Dhasmana, Vice Chancellor, SRHU, addresses the packed gathering. RIGHT: A view of those who attended
A packed audience
36 india empire | november 2016
DIASPORA NEWS
inDianS in eUrope throUgh the lenS
FOCUS ON INDIANS By Kavita Bajeli-datt Hailing from Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh, Gautam came to Antwerp some 30 years ago. He now owns a number of diamond outlets in Europe and many of the duty free-outlets at the European airports. A hotelier and a Belgian chocolate retailer, he is a known philanthropist. Micky Sehgal arrived in Italy in June 1980 with just $500 in his pocket. Today, he is known as the Curry King and owns one of Rome's most famous Indian restaurants --Maharja's -and has an annual turnover of over 1.5 million euros (Rs 11 crore). Gautam and Micky are some of the prominent Indian diaspora members that have been profiled and photographed by three Indian photographers who through their lens captured the lives and enlivening stories of the community that now calls Europe its home. With the Indian diaspora in the EU estimated to be six million plus or about 20 percent of the total population, the concept was given a go-ahead to feature and highlight the respectively little known aspects of Indians in Europe, who have become an "integral part of the community." Titled the "New Homelands: The Indian diaspora in the European Union", the photo exhibition is on display at the Indian Habitat Centre from October 20 to November 7. It will then travel to Mumbai and will be hosted at the Piramal Gallery. In September 2016, three award-winning Indian photo-journalists—Paroma Mukherjee, Kounteya Sinha and Shome Basu—criss-crossed Europe on a month-long tour to explore the lives of the Indian diaspora in their adopted homelands. The exhibition in a very subtle, heartwarming and nostalgic way traces the life journeys of some of the notable Indians who not only struck gold in their new homes by learning new languages, customs and traditions, but are still carrying a piece of India afloat with them. According to EU Ambassador to India Tomasz Kozlowski, the cultural project explores the myriad journeys of the diaspora and their contributions to the countries of the European Union. "I believe this exhibition will surprise and delight visitors but I am also hopeful that it will deepen understanding and goodwill between the peoples of the two biggest democracies in the world." The photo exhibition also showcases how the Indian culture and its rich tradition have made an inroad on the cultural and social landscape of Europe. For example, Basu's photo of 38 india empire | november 2016
Curry king Micky Sehgal Credit: Kounteya Sinha
Rashmi Bhatt Credit: Kounteya Sinha
a young woman, Tanya Desai, who was born and brought up in Luxembourg, performing the Bharatanatyam Indian classical dance during the India Day celebrations gives an interesting peak into the lives of Indians living there. Similarly his photo of Indians playing cricket in Sofia, Bulgaria, clearly shows that the passion for the game continues even in their adopted country. The photo shows Prakash Mishra, the captain of the Asia Team that counts in its ranks players from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Japan. Sinha's photograph is of Rashmi Bhatt, who came to Italy 20 years ago for a doctorate from Florence University on the history of Italian art history and settled down in the country. A musician since the age of 13, Bhatt is now one of Europe's most famous percussionists and has successfully collaborated with Sting, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Shakira and Zakir Hussain. According to the delegation of the European Union to India, which sponsored the project, the idea was to focus on individuals and communities. "The idea has been around for a couple of years since we discovered that although most people know someone -- either friend or family -- who has settled abroad, very little is gener-
Anwar Hussain Credit: Shome Basu
Sunil Gupta, photographer, seen with his work from India Credit: Paroma Mukherjee
Prakash Mishra is heading the Asia Team Credit: Shome Basu
Asker, head chef at the India Club Bar and Restaurant Credit: Paroma Mukherjee
ally known about the Indian community who have found a new home in Europe." "Indians have become an integral part of the community, wherever they have settled. They retain some Indian traditions and customs but they have learnt the language and customs of their country of adoption," the delegation told this correspondent. The project met with "considerable interest" so much so that the delegation has launched a facebook page called Indians in EU. The delegation is also planning to start a website to feature their stories after many approached them
about sharing their success stories. Alka Pande, exhibition curator and consultant art advisor for the India Habitat Centre, said: "Highlighting the Indian diaspora in the EU has not been attempted in this manner through visual culture before." "..the Indian diaspora is one of the largest diaspora in the world.(The exhibition) is a massive effort and the scale and scope of the diaspora documented is a truly incredible and heart-warming story by the three very energetic and sensitive photographers." She said the response to the photo exhibition was "incredible". â?? november 2016 | india empire 39
DiaSpora
FROM BRAIN DRAIN TO BRAIN GAIN
New Diaspora Centre in New Delhi
Welcomes Overseas Indians text and Photos by Kul Bhushan
A
ll of the 27-million-strong Indian Diaspora living in over 150 countries can now visit a new home in New Delhi: Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra (Overseas Indian Centre). Located in the diplomatic enclave, Chanakyapuri, this spanking state-of-the -art complex can be very helpful for visiting Indians. They can get search their roots, obtain investment advice, book domestic travel, attend NRI events in a huge auditorium, hold business meetings in seminar rooms, enjoy a meal at a smart restaurant and even spend a night in one of the 24 guest rooms. Draped with Indian art and culture, this centre welcomes you with a huge colourful mural at the entrance showing birds of many countries where Indians have migrated. Every open space showcases displays of paintings, statues and artifacts from every state of India. The atrium has a meditative Zen garden with a huge globe topped by a Yoga figure in Lotus Pose celebrating India’s contribution to global yoga movement. Visible from all sides with more figures, the globe projects the world wide Diaspora. A highlight is a modern museum on Mahatma Gandhi, the most famous overseas Indian to return home and fight for India’s freedom. No wonder, Prime Minister inaugurated it on 2 October, Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday this year. He said, “Gandhi ji had left India but the call of the nation brought him back." PM Modi further said the Indian diaspora should be looked at, not just in terms of its numbers, but also in terms of its strength. He said that for years, the term ‘brain drain’ has been popular. But if we look anew at the diaspora as our strength, we can convert it to ‘brain gain’. This permanent exhibition pays tribute to the father of the nation with huge photos, murals, photos and exhibits about the life of Mahatma Gandhi in South Africa and India. With 40 india empire | november 2016
Tree of Life at the main entrance presents many national birds from many countries inhabited by the Indian Diaspora. Like branches of a tree it signifies, ‘We grow in different directions bur roots remain one’
[
The library is a valuable repository of material about the Indian Diaspora including books about India and other countries written by overseas Indians in different languages. A good start has been made with books sent by Indian missions abroad; and more will be added, said Dr. O. N. Chaubey, the librarian
The atrium has a meditative Zen garden with a huge globe topped by a Yoga figure in Lotus Pose celebrating India’s contribution to global yoga movement
]
lots of elbow room, the star attraction is an old printing press from South Africa with copies of Gandhi’s farewell letter. The library is a valuable repository of material about the Indian Diaspora including books about India and other countries written by overseas Indians in different languages. A good start has been made with books sent by Indian missions abroad; and more will be added, said Dr. O. N. Chaubey, the librarian. With an emphasis on extensive digital reference material, the library provides access to researchers, journals and scholars. One of the first conferences at the centre was held by PIOCCI on the sidelines of the BRICKS summit that brought together country coordinators from Brick countries to discuss investment in India, said Mr. Vanlal Huma, the centre’s director. No less than two cabinet meetings have been held in this centre in the very first month. This enabled all ministers to tour the centre later on. Inquiries for bookings are flowing in, he said. The ultramodern 500-seat auditorium and multi-purpose conference and meeting rooms are major attractions. It took around 12 years to inaugurate it. In January 2004, during the second Pravasi Bhartiya Divas, the then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee announced that the Government will set up the Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra in New Delhi. The foundation stone was laid seven years later by the then Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in January, 2011 and construction started in April, 2013. Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra located at the heart of Chanakyapuri, the capital’s diplomatic enclave, at 15A, Dr. Rizal Marg. This is a sparkling tribute to the overseas Indian community; and commemorates their migration to over 150 countries. While visiting this centre’s exhibition and library, the overseas Indians can experience the challenges they faced abroad, ❐ their achievements and contributions. november 2016 | india empire 41
DiaSpora in inDian oCean
DEEpAvALI IN REuNION
W
eek-long celebrations of Deepavali in Reunion Island culminated with a splash of Holi colours, lighting up of the entire Indian Ocean island with pretty lights and a scintillating fireworks show, as the Indian Diaspora celebrated its roots. The presence of Miss India World Priyadarshini Chatterjee in the French island and joining the Indian Diaspora in the celebrations of Deepavali, as Diwali is known here, added more colour to the event. Deepavali celebrations in Reunion Island are an occasion for the Indian Diaspora to preserve their cultural heritage. They use this occasion to show to the world that despite their foreign nationality they have not forgotten their Indian roots. "It's a great show of strength by the Indian community here that despite being out of the country for so many decades they have not forgotten their culture," Chatterjee said. "The most amazing thing is that they celebrate Deepavali and Holi together, which is rare in the world," she added. The entire Reunion Island celebrated the 27th edition of Deepavali, the festival of lights, organised by the Reunion Island Tourism (IRT). This French island in the Indian Ocean to the east of Madagascar is home to nearly 2.5 lakh people of Indian origin -- nearly a quarter to a third of the total population. Most of the Indian origin population is concentrated in St. Andre, St. Pierre, St. Leu and St. Louis. Although Deepavali is celebrated in most of these areas, the centre of attraction is the celebrations in Colossus Park, where every person of Indian origin gathers to celebrate the festival together. On Sunday, the day of Deepavali, people of the region gathered in Colossus Park of St. Andre and played Holi with each other. The well-known Bollywood Holi song "Rang barse bhige chunar wali", sung by Amitabh Bachchan, was played and people were dancing in artificial
42 india empire | november 2016
rain and splashing colour at each other. The park, on the east coast of Reunion Island, is also a favourite tourist destination and picnic spot for locals. An exclusive cultural event was organised at Colossus Park with people of Indian origin performing Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi and Kathak classical Indian dances. On Sunday evening the temples and the houses were adorned with thousands of small lamps, fairy lights, and candles to commemorate the victory of light over darkness, good over evil. On the eve of Deepavali, a procession began in St. Andre from the municipality office and wended its way to Sarda Garriga Stadium. The procession looked like a "mini kumbh" of Indian culture where Bharatnatyam dance, as well as dances performed during South Indian festivals of Pongal and Thaipusam, mingled with the Dandia of Gujarat and folk dances during Basant Panchami of North India—on the streets. Young men and women were dressed as grooms and brides during the march. The brides were dressed in lehanga choli while the grooms were dressed in ethnic kurta pyjama. â??
DiaSpora in the USa
HALEY MEETS TRUMP
Ms Nikki Haley
S
etting aside their campaign feuds, South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley had a "good meeting" in New York with President-elect Donald Trump amid speculation that she is being considered for the job of secretary of state or other cabinet positions. "They had a good discussion, and she is very encouraged about the coming administration and the new direction it will bring to Washington," her spokesperson Rob Godfrey said after the meeting. Trump's former campaign manager Kellyanne Conway was noncommittal about a position for Haley in the Trump administration. "We're just happy to have her here for her advice and counsel and to hear about the great success story of South Carolina," she told reporters. If Republican Haley gets a cabinet job, she would be the first Indian American to ascend to that level marking a historic milestone for the community in a year that saw a political breakthrough. Democrat California Attorney General Kamala Harris became the first Indian American elected to the Senate. Three Indian Americans, Raja Krishnamoorthi from Illinois, Pramila Jayapal of Washington state, and Ro Khanna of California won seats on the House of Representatives, where they will join fellow-Democrat Ami Bera of California, who was re-elected. However, a late development cast a shadow on Haley's hopes for America's top diplomatic job. The Republican presidential candidate in 2012, Mitt Romney, was scheduled
Ms Kamala Harris
to meet Trump over the weekend. He has said that the only job he would be interested in was secretary of state, leading to new intense media speculation that he may be up for the job. Like Haley, Romney has been a vehement critic of Trump during the campaign, and in turn was hammered by Trump. While Haley said towards the end of the campaign that she would vote for Trump, although she had reservations, Romney did not take back his assertion that he would never vote for the Republican nominee. Trump, who ran a scorch earth campaign, is now reaching out to his critics in an attempt douse the flames of discord he had fanned. Speculations about Trump's cabinet choices have been rapidly changing. First reports said that former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani and former UN Permanent Representative John Bolton were the front runners for secretary of state. Both came under criticism for their advocacy of aggressive foreign interventions in contrast to Trump's own cautious policy. When Haley's meeting with Trump was scheduled, CNN and MSNBC independently quoted unnamed sources in the Trump transition team as saying that she was being considered for the foreign policy job. Now there is mention in the media that she may be also considered for commerce secretary given her strong track record in getting foreign investment into her state. Haley is the daughter of Sikh immigrants from Amritsar district and her full name is Nimrata Nikki Randhwa Haley. She is married to Michael Haley. â??
november 2016 | india empire 43
DiaSpora in CanaDa
Kolkata to Ottawa— an enthralling journey Mr Sarabjit Singh Marwah
F
ormer Scotiabank Vice Chairman Sarabjit Singh Marwah has become the first Sikh to be appointed to the Canadian Senate. Toronto-based Marwah, who retired from the bank in 2014, is among six people from Ontario who have appointed to the Senate by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. In appointing him to the Senate, the Canadian Prime Minister has lauded Marwah for his efforts "to showcase the rich diversity of Sikh and South Asian art and culture". Marwah is one of the founders of the Sikh Foundation of Canada that promotes Sikh culture and art among the diaspora community. Marwah, who was born in Kolkata in 1952, did his schooling from St Xavier's School. He is an alumnus of Delhi's St Stephen's College and the Delhi School of Economics and holds an MBA degree from the University of California in Los Angeles. Marwah joined Scotiabank in Toronto as a financial analyst in 1978. Rising through the ranks, he went on to
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become the Chief Financial Officer (COO) of the bank in 1998. In 2002, he was made the bank's senior executive vice president and chief financial officer. In 2005, he was elevated as the vice chairman and chief administrative officer. In 2008, he was re-designated as vice chairman and chief operating officer of the bank—positions he held till his retirement in 2014. He has served on the boards of many famous Canadian institutions such as the Toronto Star, the Toronto International Film Festival, the C.D. Howe Institute, the Royal Ontario Museum, the United Way Campaign, and the Hospital for Sick Children. Marwah joins two other turbaned Sikhs - Defence Minister Harjeet Sajjan and Science Minister Navdeep Bains - in the Canadian parliament. While Marwah will be the only Indian-origin member of the Senate (upper house), there are over 20 MPs of Indian origin the Canadian House of Commons (lower house). ❐
minD anD boDy
HIV/AIDS - The Great Magnifier of Maladies - is Entirely preventable By Mary Ann Adler Cohen, MD mary ann adler cohen
M
any persons throughout the world do not believe that there is still a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic and that the epidemics of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and HIV stigma still exist. As we will see, throughout the world there is evidence of an HIV pandemic: 36.9 million persons are living with HIV despite the fact that HIV and AIDS are entirely preventable. There are 17 million children orphaned by the loss or one or both parents to AIDS, all of whom are affected by loss and some of whom are living with HIV as a result of maternal transmission. Although HIV is very easy to diagnose with rapid HIV testing, 19 million or 54% of persons with HIV are unaware that they are infected. Once diagnosed, persons who were previously unaware of the HIV infection can be referred for medical care and treatment with antiretroviral medication that will enable persons with HIV to live relatively healthy lives. When a person with HIV is engaged and retained in care the human immunodeficiency virus can respond to medical care and treatment with antiretroviral medication and the number of virus particles can be reduced to undetectable levels. This reduction of viral particles to undetectable levels can, in combination with other risk reduction measures, help prevent the spread HIV to other persons. Treatment of women with HIV throughout the course of pregnancy, labor, and delivery can ensure that their children are born healthy and uninfected with HIV. Engagement and retention in care enables persons with HIV to live relatively healthy lives just as anyone else with other chronic manageable illnesses. Each year, 2.1 million persons are newly infected with HIV and 1.1 million persons die of AIDS-related deaths. Worldwide, 59% of persons with HIV are not accessing treatment. These numbers cannot even begin to reflect the suffering and anguish experienced by persons infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. By understanding the complex factors involved with attaining a goal of a world free of HIV and AIDS we can work together to address the dilemma of the tragic spread of this manageable chronic and severe illness and to ensure that persons with HIV receive competent and compassionate care until a vaccine and a cure are
developed. If lupus, multiple sclerosis, malaria, Lyme disease, and syphilis are “The Great Masqueraders” because many of their symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses, HIV/AIDS is “The Great Magnifier” of both illness and aspects of health care. HIV magnifies disparities, stigma, and discrimination in health care, and leads to both transmission and lack of access to care. As long as HIV is stigmatized, persons who have risk behaviors or suspect that they have HIV will fear discrimination or ostracism and may delay or avoid getting tested, being diagnosed, disclosing HIV to potential partners, or accessing care. Negative Aspects of HIV as Magnifier ● Health care disparities ● Stigma and Discrimination ❖ ageism ❖ misogyny ❖ racism ❖ addictophobia ❖ homophobia ❖ mental illness stigma ❖ AIDSism ● Avoidance of getting tested ● Avoidance of access to care ● Treatment refusal ● Many medical and psychiatric illnesses occur in persons with HIV ● HIV occurs with much higher frequency in persons with psychiatric illness ● Non-disclosure of HIV infection for fear of rejection or ostracism ● Criminalization of HIV, of risk behaviors, and of persons at potential risk Ironically, as a consequence of the concerted efforts of advocacy and activism on the part of gay men with HIV and AIDS and some of their clinicians, there are positive aspects of HIV as The Great Magnifier of Maladies. ❐ —Mary Ann Adler Cohen, MD is the President, WPA Section on HIV/AIDS Psychiatry, World Psychiatric Association
ColUmn: yogi aShwini
minD anD boDy
ROlE Of
yogi ashwini
b
GuRu By Yogi Ashwini
e it yog sadhna or tantra sadhna the Guru is Supreme Guru has entered into the body of the human considered Supreme; his glory is anant (un- Guru... if a sadhak duly worships Him with devotion, He ending), akhand (expansive). Guru is the ulti- grants that sadhak both enjoyment and liberation...” mate, for it is said that no shaastra, For a sadhak there is no force higher than the Guru no tapasaya, no mantra, no form or appear- such is the place given to the Guru that no shaastra speaks ance, no God or japa is superior to the Guru. By doing of anything which is superior to devotion of the Guru. the sadhna of the Guru alone can one become siddha in all Such is the importance of the Guru that in Rudrayamala it the other modes of sadhna. As the path of yog is one of ex- is said, “By devotion to Guru a jiva will attain the state of perience and not of the intellect, it requires a force - a guid- Indra, Lord of Celestials, but by devotion to Me ing light to take you through those experiences. (ishta devta) alone he will become swine.” In fact that which For a sadhak, the Guru is the constitutes the state of a Guru is basis and ultimate goal of his sadhna, undivided, perfect Brahma; though for it is said that one is a disciple appearing in a body, it is all pervadOne who misconceives the only so long as one is a sadhak, that is ing and cannot be limited to any Guru as a mere human to say, Shakti is not fully communipoint. One who misconceives the cated to the disciple’s body from the Guru as a mere human being is not being is not even fit to be Guru. Till then there subsists the reeven fit to be a sadhak as the basis a sadhak as the basis of lation of Guru and shishya. When a of sadhna, the root of dhyan is the disciple is given shaktipath or dikGuru, the root of puja is the lotus sadhna, the root of dhyan sha, siddhi is attained and on the atfeet of the Guru, the root is the Guru, the root of tainment of siddhi this dualism of mantra is the word of the Guru, (the Guru-shishya relationship) is surand the Grace of Guru is the root puja is the lotus feet of the passed, and they are one. In of siddhi. There is no religious merit Guru, the root of mantra the Mundamala Tantra, it is said that acquired by charity or devotion or the root of siddhi is in the devta. The by visiting places of pilgrimage is the word of the Guru, root of the devta in the mantra, root greater than the worship of the and the Grace of Guru is of mantra is initiation, and root of Guru’s feet, for if someone has initiation is in the Guru. Just as it is done that, he has worshipped the the root of siddhi impossible to attain liberation bethree worlds. All places of pilgrimyond the reach of attribute without age which exist in the whole uniworship of the devta with attributes, so it is impossible to verse reside in the soles of the Guru’s feet. ❐ attain monistic knowledge without the worship of the Guru. In Kularnava Tantra Bhagvan Mahesvara has Himself —Yogi Ashwini is the Guiding Light of Dhyan Foundation said, “... how can that subtle aspect of Shiva, which is one, and an authority on the Vedic Sciences. His book, ‘Sanatan omnipresent, attributeless, indifferent, un-decaying, unatKriya, The Ageless Dimension’ is an acclaimed thesis on tached like space, un-beginning, and unending be an object anti-ageing. Log onto to www.dhyanfoundation.com or mail of worship to the dualistic mind? Hence it is that the to dhyan@dhyanfoundation.com for more information
46 india empire | november 2016
BUSINESS AND GOVERNANCE
bUSineSS anD governanCe
PM meets Swedish delegation
Euro 130 m for Nagpur Metro
Mr Narendra Modi
A Swedish business delegation called on the Prime Minister Mr Narendra Modi in November. The delegation comprised some of the CEOs who were in New Delhi for the India Sweden Business Leaders Round Table. The Prime Minister welcomed the delegation members. Long term business opportunities for Swedish manufacturers, including in defence manufacturing and solar energy, came up for discussion.
Aligarh tops Mr Venkaiah Naidu
Aligarh leads 500 cities in undertaking Swachh awareness generation activities under the fortnightly thematic activities as required under the Swachh Survekshan-2017, launched by the Ministry of Urban Development. During the evaluation of IEC (Information, Education and Communication) activities by the Ministry, Aligarh has scored the maximum marks. IEC performance has been assessed by the Ministry while evaluation of other parameters of Swachh Survekshan-2017 will be done by the Quality Council of India.
48 india empire | november 2016
Nagpur Metro in November achieved financial closure of the project by securing a credit of Euro 130 million from AFD (French Development Agency). A Credit Facility Agreement in this regard was today signed between the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance and AFD. Shri Selvakumar, Joint Secretary (DEA) and Shri Nicolas Fornage, Regional Director for South Asia, AFD signed the agreement in the presence of French Ambassador Shri Alexandre Ziegler in New Delhi. The 20-year credit period with a moratorium of five years, will be used for funding Signalling, Telecom, Automatic Fare Collection Systems and Lifts and Escalators. Earlier, in April, 2016, Government of India signed a loan agreement with KfW Germany for 500 million Euro for Nagpur Metro. With November’s credit agreement, Nagpur Metro which was incorporated in February 2015 and commenced civil works in May 2015 has achieved financial closure in a record 18 months. Order for rolling stock has already been placed and tendering of other packages for power supply, traction systems, signaling, telecom, automatic fare collection system etc., are in advanced stages.
All the cities were required to furnish reports on IEC activities involving citizens along with evidence of media coverage relating to ensuring cleanliness at parks, government of offices, residential colonies, tourist places, schools etc., and welfare of sanitary workers, for evaluation. The other cities in the top 10 in this regard are: Vasai-Virar (Maharashtra), Hyderabad, Gurugram, Chandigarh, Madurai (Tamil Nadu), Vadodara and Rajkot (Gujarat), Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh) and Mysuru (Karnataka). These cities were given scores under the 50% of weightage allocated for IEC under Survey-2017.
India Israel’s Top Trade Partner
More Foreign Tourists Dr Mahesh Sharma
Mr Reuven Rivlin
Pointing out that India is the top trading partner of his country, visiting Israeli President Reuven Rivlin in November said he hoped his visit will pave the way for a full Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries. "India is today the top trade partner for Israel. The Israeli business delegation accompanying me is here to 'Make in India' and 'Make with India'," Rivlin said at the India-Israel Economic Forum in New Delhi. "I hope the visit will open the way for a full Free Trade Agreement between the two countries," Rivlin added. The event was organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Confederation of Indian Industry and the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India. He exhorted the business leaders to work closely together to create a stronger market in both the countries. The Israel President said bilateral trade was growing at a rapid pace and there was great scope for cooperation in water treatment projects, optics, metals, aviation, diamonds and textiles. NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant, who was present at the event, said India's ambition was to grow 9-10 per cent annually over three decades, for which the government is undertaking structural reforms such as the bankruptcy law, Goods and Services Tax and the most recent demonetisation of high-denomination currency. "It would be difficult for India to grow at this rate without a dynamic and durable economic and business partnership with Israel," Kant said. He mentioned defence manufacturing, agriculture and water management as some of key areas where the two countries need to develop strong partnerships.
Dr. Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism and Culture along with an Indian delegation participated in the “World Travel Market (WTM) 2016” in London, United Kingdom, which is one of the largest international events of the travel and tourism industry. India is the official Premier Partner at WTM 2016 with the theme –‘India - The Land of Eternal Heritage’. Dr. Sharma, in his address, said that the Indian tourism outlook is certainly very promising with an upswing in the growth of Foreign Tourist Arrivals (FTAs) in India in the recent years. In 2015, India received 8.03 million foreign tourists as compared to 7.68 million in 2014 with a growth rate of 4.5%.
PHD backs GST Industry body PHD Chamber has said that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and bankruptcy laws will emerge as facilitators for both inbound and outbound mergers and acquisitions (M and A) in the country. "With GST and bankruptcy laws in place, prospects for mergers and acquisitions both inbound and outbound would grow proportionately in India," the industry body said in a forecast. The forecast was revealed at the "Global Investment and Acquisitions Forum 2016" under the joint aegis of PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Corporate Catalyst India and M and A Worldwide. According to the business body, global majors have strategised to launch their corporations and begin business with their counterparts in the joint venture sector. "This change has come after the new government has come to power with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the helm of affairs," forecast said.
bUSineSS anD governanCe
Cash Concession
Mr Shaktikanta Das
In a bid to ensure a smooth sowing season, the Government has allowed farmers to withdraw up to Rs 25,000 per week from their designated bank accounts and a similar additional amount credited to their bank towards produce they sell to state agen-
Airport Currency
To facilitate air travellers, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has allowed opening of currency exchange counters by scheduled commercial banks at its airports across the country. According to the AAI, the exchange counters will be on a temporary basis and slated to operate till December 31. "The decision of the Government of India to demonetise Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes across the nation has led to currency hardship for airport users and air travellers," the state-owned firm said in a statement. "Hence, extending its support to the campaign and facilitating airport users and air travelers, AAI has decided to allow any scheduled commercial bank to open and operate on temporary basis, currency exchange counter." However, airports operated under joint ventures (JV) have not been included in the scheme, as sufficient bank branches and exchange counters are located there. The central government demonetised Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes on November 8.
50 india empire | november 2016
cies. This apart, traders who are registered with the Agricultural Produce Marketing Committees can withdraw up to Rs 50,000 per week for a smooth procurement process, Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das told reporters in New Delhi. "Agriculture is an important component. We are at the commencement of the Rabi season. We want to ensure farmers get smooth supply of fertilizers and other items," Das said. While concessions have been made for families that have an upcoming wedding, the amount of money that an individual can exchange by handing over the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes in banks has been lowered to Rs 2,000 from Friday, the official said. He said a member of the family that has an upcoming wedding can withdraw up to Rs 250,000 subject to one of the members furnishing the PAN card details and also providing an undertaking that no other member will withdraw such an amount for that purpose.
NHPC net profits up State-run hydro power generator NHPC posted a net profit of Rs 1,554.6 crore for the second quarter ended September, which is a 28 per cent rise over that recorded in the same quarter a year ago, mainly on the back of other income. NHPC had posted a net profit of Rs 1,215.7 crore for the quarter ended September 30, 2015. The company's total income in the quarter in question rose 21.36 per cent to Rs 3,281.22 crore, over the Rs 2,703.70 crore in the corresponding quarter of 2015. Revenue during the quarter grew by 2.5 per cent to Rs 2,403.4 crore from Rs 2,345 crore in same period of the last fiscal. EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) increased 0.5 per cent to Rs 1,559.5 crore. Margin during the quarter in consideration, however, dipped by 130 basis points to 64.9 per cent. NHPC said in a statement here that in view of the seasonal nature of business, the financial results of the quarter ended September may not be comparable with the same quarter of 2015. Other income jumped to Rs 888 crore in July-September quarter, compared with Rs 359 crore in same period a year-ago, while tax expenses increased 66.7 per cent compared to last year to Rs 369.6 crore.