Indian Weekender 3 March 2017 by Indian Weekender

3 MARCH2017 Vol. 8 • Issue 48

NZ’s only Kiwi-Indian weekly

The Pulse of Kiwi-Indians since 2009

www.iwk.co.nz

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Kiwi-Indian Sikh

3 March 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

subjected to racist slur ¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

Kiwi-Indian Sikh truck driver was subjected to a racist slur of “go back to your country,” in a South Auckland safe storage facility. A video that has gone going viral on the social media today since Monday, February 27, shows that a resident washing his car was appalled by a passing truck’s speed—or the ethnicity of the driver as the video suggests—to the extent that usual verbal abuses were followed by “go back to your country” tirade. The victim in question, Bikramjit Singh Mattran, who owns and operates a truck business, was parking his truck at a storage facility in South Auckland when the incident occurred. Indian Weekender spoke with Mr Mattran to investigate further about the incident. He told that probably he was driving slightly faster than the usual five-kilometre speed limit restriction inside the safe storage business facility but was vigil and safe. “I am not sure why that gentleman launched a racial tirade against me. It possibly could be because I might be going slightly faster,” Mr Mattaran said.

“For that matter, even car washing was not allowed in the vicinity as I confirmed with the facility manager this morning.” When Mr Mattaran defended that he was a New Zealander and this country belongs to him as clearly heard on the video, the gentleman in question was not impressed and asked, “Were you born here?” On persistently defending and refusing to take this racist slur, Mr Mattran was charged by the attacker probably to snatch away the mobile. Mr Mattaran informed Indian Weekender that he was punched and sprayed with a water hose when attempts to snatch away the mobile being used to record the video was unsuccessful. Mr Mattaran posted the video on the New Zealand Police Facebook page where he was immediately advised to lodge a formal complaint at Manukau or Otahuhu Police Station, as it was a serious matter. Later Counties Police Manukau Inspector Uraia Vakaruru confirmed Indian Weekender that they have received a formal complaint. “Police can confirm that we have received a complaint in relation to this matter.

Bikramjit Singh Mattran

Both parties involved are assisting police with our enquiries. We are still seeking to establish exactly what has occurred and cannot make any further comment at this early stage of our investigation,” Inspector Vakaruru said. Mr Mattran says that the physical attack on him should have been recorded on the CCTV at the premises. Indian Weekender’s attempts to contact the business at whose premise this alleged incident occurred to verify the facts as claimed by Mr Mattaran was unsuccessful, as the staff there declined to make comment on the record.

9 in 10 health workers feel understaffed

ine out of ten people working in health say they don’t have enough staff or resources, according to a new survey. The YesWeCare.nz Survey of 6000 health workers found: • 90% say the health system doesn’t have the staff and resource required to give New Zealanders the healthcare they need when they need it. • 61% say New Zealanders access to health care over the last five years has decreased. • 72% say their workload and work pressures aren’t reasonable. • 84% say their workload and work pressures have increased over the last five years. • 90% say the Government’s current level of health funding is affecting New Zealanders’ access to healthcare. • 82% say the Government’s current level of health funding is affecting their workload and work pressure. YesWeCare.nz is a new community - health workforce coalition for better health funding. Emergency Nurse Nico Woodward says health underfunding is New Zealand’s biggest health risk. “I get as frustrated and angry as patients and families with emergency department delays,” he says.

“Not being able to care for someone, when you know you could if you were staffed properly, is distressing.” Mr Woodward says health funding hasn’t kept up with an ageing and growing population. The Council of Trade Unions (CTU) estimates the government has underfunded health by more than $1.85 billion. New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) Industrial Advisor Lesley Harry says underfunding is now affecting patient safety. “Poor access to care, carerationing, health-worker burnout and strained infrastructure are now common,” she says. “The 2016 Budget made it clear that the Government was not properly assessing current or future funding needs.”

HEALTH UNDERFUNDING ROADSHOW Mr Woodward has put his nursing career on hold to join YesWeCare.nz’s national roadshow. The coalition is launching their campaign at 38 towns across the country to raise awareness about health underfunding. The events will include local stories and 200 life size cut-outs of health workers missing due to underfunding. The roadshow starts this Saturday 4 March in Bluff and finishes in Cape Reinga on Wednesday 29 March.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 March2017

Labour comfortably holds Mt Albert seat, Jacinda due for promotion T ¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

he Mt Albert by-election results did not come as surprise to anyone as Labour’s Jacinda Ardern marched home with a thumping victory on election night on Saturday, February 25. There were some days of intense speculation in the media about Ms Ardern’s imminent elevation to the position of Deputy Leader of the Labour Party heading to general elections and Andrew Little’s persistent denial of any such changeover. However, in the end, speculations turned real as Annette King, the current incumbent at the deputy leader position decided to step down on Wednesday, March 1, four days after Ms Ardern’s massive victory, and Mr Little quickly announced his nomination for Ms Ardern to be his deputy. The Labour caucus is meeting on March 7 and is largely expected to give an approval to Mr Little’s nomination. Earlier, the preliminary turnout was low in the Mt Albert by-election—just under 30%—as compared to the previously held Mt Roskill by-election where turnout was 38.5%. The electoral contest was insignificant if not altogether meaningless when the Nationals had abstained away from fielding a candidate citing the reasons that Mt Albert was considered traditionally a Labour seat. However, the electoral outcome was not as insignificant as the actual contest was. Ms Ardern obviously had to fill in big shoes of the two previous Labour Party leaders and

“

The Labour caucus is meeting on March 7 and is largely expected to give an approval to Mr Little’s nomination as deputy to Andrew Little.

a prime minister—a challenge to which as the latest electoral results confirms that Ms Ardern had responded well. Mt Albert electorate had been sending representatives such as David Shearer and Helen Clark who both were the Leaders of the Labour Party and the prime minister of the country in case of Helen Clark.

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The massive landslide victory of 10,000 votes over her nearest contestant Green Party’s Julie Anne Genter would certainly build her profile within the party. It’s another matter that Ms Genter was more visible in demonstrating her personal solidarity with Ms Ardern during the campaigning rather than putting forward values that her party brings to the political scene. In the end, it was a reminiscent of a scene from Rio Olympics last year where two German twin sisters finished a marathon holding their hands together. At that time, there were some criticisms in the media for those runners for not being driven by the zeal of producing their best performance every time they professionally compete. Apparently, there is no such expectation of professionalism placed on our politicians.

LESSONS FOR NEW ZEALAND PEOPLE PARTY

ew Zealand People’s Party (NZPP), the country’s only political party claiming to exclusively represent ethnic Indian and Chinese immigrants in New Zealand, again failed to make any noticeable impact on the electoral scene. The party’s candidate Vin Tomar was at a distant fourth position with 199 votes behind the newly formed Gareth Morgan’s The Opportunities party (TOP) candidate Geoff Simmons. It is high time that the party realises that time is running out before the next general elections arrive at their doorsteps. The party needs to do more than just wishful thinking of hoping to get 10–12%

votes in the general election so as to give the party a “balance of power” in the parliament. The leaders and brains behind the party need to understand that there is a reason behind political class’ collective relaxed attitude towards individual political adventurism of wealthy businessmen. The party’s progress in national politics will largely depend on their ability to offer some substance to the electorate rather than just making noise around law and order— the main reason for their existence as an independent political party as originally claimed by the party leadership. As political commentator Bryce Edwards notes that in an election year, parties need campaigners and communicators in the leadership group. NZPP will have to ensure that they have got right communication strategy in place.

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Colours, music and fun galore at Holi 2K17 ¡¡RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

he Hare Krishna Temple grounds in Kumeu witnessed one of the biggest turnouts for a Holi event in New Zealand. More than 10,000 people visited the Holi 2K17—Festival of Colours event hosted by Hare Krishna Temple (ISKCON) on Sunday, February 26. The noon to evening celebration saw people from different ethnicities come together for the annual celebration of colours. NZ Police, emergency services such as St. John’s Ambulance and NZ Fire Services, also took part in the celebrations. The police vehicles were splashed with colours and officers posed with the visitors for photos. Devotees of Shri Ram and Krishna took to the stage chanting ‘Hare Ram Hare Krishna’ as visitors danced to their hymns and music. “This is the best Holi celebrations ever. I am so glad to see so many people from the Kiwi, European, Asian, and Pacific Island community come together and actively participate in the event,” Divesh Karma, a visitor at the celebrations, said. Photo courtesy: David Watson Photography and Rizwan Mohammad

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Maha Shivratri celebrated with devotional fervor

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rganised at the Balmoral Temple in Sandringham, Bharatiya Mandir’s Maha Shivratri celebrations saw more than 2000 devotees lined up for hours on the evening on February 25 to attend the special prayers. Shivratri is celebrated on the 13/14th moonless night in the month of Phalgun or Maagh every year. The celebration marks the marriage anniversary of Lord Shiva and Parvati. On this day, devotees observe a daylong fast. Bhartiya Mandir has been celebrating this auspicious day for the last 22 years. Acharya Shri Upendrabhai Joshi conducted the Shivratri prayer along with Pt Govind Prasad Sharma. Clad in ethnic dresses, men, women, and children attended the celebrations at the temple, with a thali (plate) of fruits, bael leaves, sandalwood powder, kumkum, and milk bottles. Devotees applied kumkum, and placed flowers on the lingam.

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Multiple robberies in Tokoroa in one week ¡¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

he police is hunting for offenders of three separate armed robberies in one week in Tokoroa, Waikato. On Monday night (February 27), two men, armed with a hammer and an axe, entered Amber Dairy on Bridge Street and demanded cash from the shop attendant. According to the police, the robbers were denied of anything, so they ran out of the store and headed down a service lane towards Dreghorn Place. When Indian Weekender approached Amber Dairy, the owner denied acknowledging and commenting on the incident. On Sunday, February 26, three men armed with a machete and a firearm entered the Tainui Superette in Tokoroa at around 8:30 p.m. and demanded cash and cigarettes. Two people, who were manning the dairy at the time of the incident, complied with the demands of the offenders. The trio grabbed the money and fled the scene on foot. “I was not there when the incident happened. My

Mothers paid 17% less than fathers

friend and his wife were looking after the store, and they are shocked with this robbery,” Bhavesh Patel, owner of Tainui Superette, told Indian Weekender. “The police investigated the place but could not find anything, not even fingerprints,” he said. Multiple armed robberies have taken place in Tokoroa in the last three months. Lamond Takeaway, a fish and chip shop on Nevis Crescent in Tokoroa, was robbed by armed men on Sunday, February 19. Last year in December, Manaia Street Dairy and Balmoral Drive Dairy, too, were robbed by offenders, who were disguised under hoodies and balaclavas and wielded an axe. “We are reluctant [to] even report the incident

to the police. They come to examine the place, take footages, and then there is no progress or any result at the end. We had to close the store for hours to just describe the incident, and at least five hours in the morning for scene investigation,” Mr Patel said. “We lost business through invasion by robbers, [and] the lockdown during police investigation further added to our losses.” The police suspect the repeated robberies have been committed by offenders from the same group and warned that it is only a matter of time before someone gets seriously injured or killed. The police is investigating the cases individually and has urged retail store owners and takeaways in the region to report if they find anything suspicious.

here is a gap in the average earnings of a mother and a father in New Zealand according to a new report released by the Statistics New Zealand. The report Effect of motherhood on pay was released by the Statistics New Zealand on Tuesday, February 28. According to this report the estimated pay gap between mothers and fathers is 17 percent, which is almost $5 an hour on average. Effect of motherhood on pay report shows that, on average, fathers earn $28.30 an hour, while mothers make $23.40 an hour (a difference of $4.90). In contrast, the pay gap between women and men without dependent children is only 5 percent. “The difference between the 17 percent gap in what mothers and fathers earn, and the 5 percent pay gap between men and women without children, is significant,” Insights manager Stephen Oakley says. The negative pay consequence for women with children is internationally referred to as the ‘motherhood penalty’. The report shows that despite a gap between the pay rates for mothers and fathers, on average parents make more than men and women without children. “We found that parents generally get paid more than non-parents,” Mr Oakley said. For example, mothers with dependent children earn more than $23 an hour, on average, almost $1 an hour more than men and $2 more than women without children. Studying the reasons for this difference was not part of our analysis and requires further study.

According to international studies cited in the report, mothers may get less pay than fathers because many women spend time caring for children, which interrupt fulltime paid work. Past New Zealand research suggests the effects of having children on mother’s pay rates may reflect breaks from work and reduced work experience. Although some mothers may trade higher wages for jobs that fit better with being a parent, there is no strong evidence for this in New Zealand. Overseas research notes there is also potential for employers to discriminate against mothers, either knowingly or not. The report used Household Labour Force Survey (HLFS) data collected for the June 2016 quarter. Because the HLFS is a sample survey, every reported figure is an estimate of the overall population. Our analysis is a snapshot of pay rates at a point in time so we do not draw conclusions about changes over time. A parent is defined as someone with a dependent child living in the same house. A dependent child is a child aged less than 15 years, or a child under 18 years who is not working full-time. Parents whose children have left home or live elsewhere are not included. The overall gender pay gap for the June 2016 quarter, measured using the Household Labour Force Survey, is 12 percent.

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Maharaj trio end their musical tour at Ram Mandir

¡¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

ultiple award-winner musician Pandit Vikash Maharaj, along with his two sons Abhishek and Prabhash Maharaj, concluded their New Zealand tour with their performance at Shri Ram Mandir on February 28. More than 100 people visited Shri Ram Temple on Tuesday to witness the musical gala. Pandit Vikash Maharaj plays the Sarod, while his sons Abhishek and Prabhash Maharaj play the sitar and tabla. The audience present at the event were left in awe with the soulful music and composition. The trio had performed at concerts in Waiheke and Piha and at the Neck of the Woods on K’ Road in Auckland. They were the highlight of the well-known three-day Splore Festival at Tapapakanga Park—an hour from Auckland—that was held from February 17 to 19. They also performed at the Golden Dawn—Tavern of Power Hall in Ponsonby and the Auckland Art Gallery on February 26.

With excellent musical skill and artistry, the charismatic trio comes from a long line (15 generations) of dedicated musicians. Popularly known as the Maharaj Trio, the group has performed hundreds of shows across the globe with their focus on reaching out to the western audiences. “Since people in India are more into Bollywood music, the trio tend to share their wisdom of music more to the Western audiences, where they get better attention and fan following,” Bharat Jamnadas, an ardent fan of the Maharaja Trio, said. The Maharaja family belongs from Varanasi, India and their musical roots date back to 500 years. The trio has travelled the world, delighting international audiences with their heart-full, intricate ragas, breathing great joy and vitality into classical music. The band has performed at major world music festivals in Europe, Asia, United States, Middle East, Canada, and South America. The group has also supported different organisations such as Misereor, Xertifix, and P.V.C.H.R. to protect human rights and strongly fight against child labour.

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‘Casual’ racism versus ‘normal’ racism debate continues, albeit without the mainstream media ¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

he year 2017 began for New Zealand with an opportunity to refine our collective understanding of the ‘casual’ and ‘normal’ racism when Sir Peter Leitch’s “white man’s island” comment was not well received by the intended target of that comment—a young Maori girl. The mainstream media had leapt at that incidence to bolster a case against any visible evils of racism in our otherwise harmonious and globally acclaimed great Kiwi culture. Unfortunately, that spontaneity is missing at this instance where apparently a Kiwi-Indian Sikh truck driver was subjected to “go back to your country” rant and “were you born here” scrutiny in the public space (read the complete report on page 3). However, mainstream media’s lack of interest is understandable to the extent that this instance does not involve a high-profile ‘white’ and an ordinary ‘Maori’—a space where historically, New Zealand society had to deal with its most intriguing challenges and therefore naturally have an audience. Regardless of this fact, it cannot be ignored that there is a need to bolster our collective wisdom about what constitutes a racist

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“

The only intention here is to be fair to everyone in true Kiwi spirit, including the alleged perpetrator of the crime

slur in public space and what is an acceptable conversation in a private space, either as banter or as a flared up conversation. It is important to acknowledge that both, the ‘banter’ and ‘flare-up’ are important and unavoidable part

of our dayto-day lives. H o w e v e r, both need to be tempered and shaped by a mutually agreed level of modern etiquettes required to live amicably in the 21st-century liberal society. In a survey conducted by Mediaworks earlier this month to gauge how casually racist we are, a question “were you born here” to an Asian immigrant was not considered a racist slur by 71% of the respondents. But when this question is preceded with a “go back to your country” rant, then obviously the

offensive power ingrained in the question with an intention to hurt its target is magnified manifold. For an Indian diaspora, receiving such a rant, just a day after a tragic incident in the United States where the “go back to your country” rant was followed by three gunshots resulting in one fatality and two critical injuries clearly have a different meaning. In some other times, the normal relaxed Kiwi attitude would have prevailed and the community would have less incensed with a “flared up” conversation between two individuals in a private space. However, in present time, the Indian diaspora’s collective sensitivity towards a “go back to your country” rant seems to have heightened. Make no mistake. There is no intention to exonerate the alleged perpetrator in the video from the responsibility to restrain from racist slurs based on colour or ethnicity, irrespective of being a private or public conversation. The only intention here is to be fair to everyone in true Kiwi spirit, including the alleged perpetrator of the crime. Having said that, it is also required to bring to fore that reverse racist slurs offered by many in the community within the comforts of social media space is neither

acceptable nor recommended. For every victim of prejudiced action or rant, verbal or physical, there is one Ian Grillot, who is willing to risk his life to prevent a perpetrator of racial abuse from succeeding in inflicting any pain, psychological or physical, on the victim. For uninitiated, Ian Grillot is a 24-year-old white man in the US who was shot and injured for coming to the rescue of two Indian techies under a racist attack where one victim was eventually killed. It is our collective responsibility to avoid precipitating social cleavages to a level comparable to many other countries in Europe and North America. Towards this goal, there is a persistent need to raise awareness about casual and normal racism. There is no space for denial or a relaxed approach towards individual acts of prejudice as it is these individual instances that shape a society’s collective image and the Kiwi culture is too precious to be allowed to be spoiled by our lack of willingness to tackle the problem hard before it raises its ugly head. Mainstream media would do well to continue shaping the public debate on the casual versus normal racism.

Results.

We provide legal advice and NEW ZEALAND 9 needing help with all New Ze Govt initiative to provides better protection for vulnerable migrant workers Citizenship Issues including: www.iwk.co.nz | 3 March2017

¡¡ MCCLYMONT & ASSOCIATES BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS

rom April 1, there will be enforced stand-down periods for non-compliant employers who breach employment standards. Those employers will not be able to recruit migrants for a specified period of time following an infringement. “This latest government initiative is long overdue, but it doesn’t go far enough,” Auckland Specialist Immigration Lawyer Alastair McClymont said. “The threshold of acceptance if employers are noncompliant is too high, so there will still be employers who avoid being punished. And the two-year stand-down period for the worst offenders is too low. “Migrant worker exploitation is very common and it needs to be stopped. We have clients telling us every day about what their employers are doing to exploit them. And this includes Indian and Chinese students who are entitled to work a maximum of twenty hours per week while they are enrolled at a training institution.”

Alastair McClymont

These new government measures demonstrate that the exploitation of workers, including migrants who may be less likely to be aware of their rights and entitlements than New Zealand workers, is not acceptable. “Most migrant employers have no understanding of employment rules and regulations in New Zealand,” Mr McClymont said. “Migrants generally employ migrants, so frequently, we become involved in cases in which migrants are exploiting other migrants.” He says that such employers will often promise to sponsor their employees to gain residency or work visas. But in the meantime, their employees are overworked and underpaid. “It’s virtually slave labour in many cases. These migrant employees endure these appalling working conditions because they’re afraid of losing their sponsorship and the chance of a resident or working visa. There’s no incentive for employees to come forward and inform on their bosses because they are so dependent on being employed to gain residency. If their work visa is tagged to a specific employer, then it can be difficult to find another job. So they suffer in silence.” According to the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, the new measures will provide a defined threshold and will mean that in situations where an employer has incurred a penalty for a breach of employment standards, there will be a set stand-down period preventing them from recruiting migrant labour for either

six months, one year, 18 months, or two years depending on the severity of the breach. This could potentially seriously impact an employer’s ability to operate their business and it provides a strong incentive to comply. McClymont and Associates based in Newmarket, Auckland, works with migrant employers to ensure they won’t have problems with compliance. This includes writing employee contracts and identifying the appropriate salary, holiday pay, working hours, PAYE, and ACC requirements. Mr McClymont’s advice to migrant employers is to contact their lawyer and get their compliance issues resolved so they have a better understanding of their responsibilities under the law. “Employers are much better off in the long-term if they comply with New Zealand employment regulations,” Mr McClymont said. “It’s a winwin situation for both employers and employees. Employers who have a good reputation for compliance with Immigration New Zealand will experience a smoother application process to obtain their employee’s work and residency visas. They’ll also attract better employees because they know that an employer who has a reputation for following employment legislation can get work and resident visas more easily and their applications won’t be declined due to non-compliance issues. The inability to get visas is more of a deterrent to an employee than long hours and low wages.”

• • • • •

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Resident Visas Work Visas Student Visas Appeals HearingsKIWI-INDIAN and Complaints HALL OF FAME 2017 •

The Kiwi Indian Honours recognise those individuals who have built a road to glory for themselves and left a path for the coming generations to read on.

The Indian Weekender invites nominations for such personalities from the community Physical address : Level 1, 2 Owens Roa for getting inducted into the Kiwi Indian Hall of Fame 2017. Phone :09 623 3344 | Email : amcclymon We also invite nominations for Kiwi http://www.amlaw.co.nz/

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Clampdown on rogue employers of migrants

3 March 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

Improving the quality of our rivers and lakes Bill English

Prime Minister

Dr Parmjeet Parmar

National List MP

igrant workers make a valuable contribution to New Zealand, both culturally and economically. We need to ensure all our workers are treated fairly and that migrants have the same rights as any other worker. The majority of employers abide by the rules when recruiting migrant labour. However, there are some who do not comply with their obligations and take advantage of vulnerable workers. The exploitation of migrant workers is an issue that is close to the hearts of the migrant community. And the government takes the need to protect the interests of migrants, local businessesvery seriously. That is why, last week, the Minister of Immigration and Workplace Relations and Safety, Hon. Michael Woodhouse announced new measures to stop employers who breach immigration and employment laws from recruiting migrant workers. The measures, which come into effect from April 1, will ensure that rogue employers of migrants are banned from accessing migrant labour for a defined period of time. This stand-down period will range from six months to two years, depending on the severity of the case. Migrant employees already working for non-compliant employers will be able to work

out the remaining duration of their work visa but will not be able to attain a further working visa to work for the non-compliant employer. New Zealand employers have the privilege of being able to access the international labour market but this is not a right. Employers who break the law and exploit migrant workers will have to face the consequences. These new measures are another example of our whole-of-government approach to combatting migrant exploitation. We also introduced a new legislation in 2013, which imposed heavy penalties on employers who exploit migrants. As part of those penalties, migrant employers who exploit their workers can face a jail sentence of up to seven years, a fine not exceeding $100,000, or both. Migrant employers can also face deportation if the offence was committed within 10 years of gaining residence. We have also increased the numbers of Labour Inspectors to help strengthen compliance with minimum employment standards. With these new measures in place, the government is making the migrant worker market a more level playing field for employers and employees.

Aiming for Excellence? Entering into the 10th Glorious year

There are many things that make New Zealand special, but one of the most remarkable is our environment. It draws people and praise from around the world. While we rank among the best in the world on almost all environmental indicators, we are always trying to do better. That’s why last week Environment Minister Nick Smith and I announced the Government’s new target to make90 per cent of New Zealand’s lakes and rivers swimmable by 2040. This ambitious plan to improve the water quality in our lakes and rivers recognises that we expect to be able to take a dip in our local river or lake without getting a nasty bug. And we want our visitors to be able to do the same. The plan is supported by national regulations requiring the stock to be fenced out of waterways, new requirements that regional councils strengthen their rules on things like sewage discharge, and maps that clearly show where the water quality is good, and where improvements are needed. The target will see around 400 kilometres of rivers and lakes made swimmable each year, ultimately returning our rivers and lakes to a standard not seen in 50 years. It will also make us world leaders in water quality standards for swimming, and that’s important for New Zealand’s growing

tourism industry. This is the third phase of the Government’s work programme to improve New Zealand freshwater management and is just the latest step in the National-led Government’s commitment to protecting our environment. Last year we announced we are working towards the ambitious goal of New Zealand becoming predator free by 2050. We want to rid every part of New Zealand of rats, stoats and possums. Like our goal for rivers and lakes, it’s a challenging conservation target. But, if we all work together, it’s achievable. And as I’ve said before, we don’t shy away from hard issues. Last week I was in Christchurch to mark the sixth anniversary of the Christchurch quake—a quake which claimed 185 lives and destroyed homes and workplaces. At 12:51 p.m. we stopped for a moment of silence to remember the lives lost, and the suffering and strength of the people who were affected by that tragic event. While Wednesday was a day to reflect on the impact of these earthquakes, it was also an opportunity to share in the city’s optimism. We are well advanced in renewing and rebuilding the city, and our Government continues to stand alongside the people of Christchurch as it transforms itself into an exciting and innovative city of the future.

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www.iwk.co.nz | 3 March2017

Migrants contribute positively to New Zealand Kanwaljit Bakshi

National List MP

ew Zealand is a diverse and multicultural country. More people are coming to New Zealand as a result of a strong and growing economy, and immigration continues to have a positive impact on our culture, our economy, and our country as a whole. Recently, Jacqui Dean, Minister for Small Business and Minister of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, visited my electorate in Manukau East. During her visit, the minister had the opportunity to witness first-hand, the success of migrants in our community. We started off with a visit to the Manukau campus of New Zealand School of Education (NZSE). The campus offers a six-month programme of study and aims to produce graduates who are capable of undertaking academic studies in the field of their choice. The minister saw how well students are performing at NZSE and spoke to students who shared that they were able to get jobs after completing the courses. We also visited a number of successful local businesses owned and operated by migrants. Slumberzone, a New Zealand-owned bed manufacturing company is growing at 20% year on year. We also visited Fresh Foods, one of the biggest producers of frozen chips, and Bath and Tile, where we were told they employ close to 35 people in their two showrooms.

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It was interesting to learn how these businesses operate and to see the value they contribute to our economy and community. The government also recognises the value of migrant workers in New Zealand and the need to safeguard their rights. It is important that all workers are treated fairly and that migrants have the same rights as any other employee. While most employers of migrant workers abide by the rules, there are some who breach immigration and employment law and take advantage of vulnerable workers. That is why the Minister of Immigration and Workplace Relations and Safety, Hon. Michael Woodhouse, recently announced new measures to stop rogue employers who have breached their obligations from recruiting migrant workers. Employers who flout the law will face a stand-down period ranging from six months to two years, during which they are banned from recruiting further migrant workers. It is unacceptable that those employers who exploit migrant workers are still able to recruit from the international labour market and disadvantage employers who do the right thing. Combined with the harsher penalties for rogue employers that we introduced in 2013 and the increased numbers of Labour Inspectors, these new measures will help combat migrant exploitation.

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SOUTH LINE

News-in-brief from South Island

Rajesh Nayyar, a doyen of Indian women cricket - a wicketkeeper batter, she was the member of the first Indian women cricket team formed in 1974 and then became the coach of the Indian women cricket team in 1989, leading it to the triangular series win in New Zealand in 1994. She was also a member of the Women’s Cricket Association of India selection committee in 2000s. Her latest stint was being a match referee for BCCI since 2004 till 2014 - now, Ms Nayyar is in Christchurch coaching St Albans [one of the most successful cricket clubs in the city] premier women team ¡¡ GAURAV SHARMA

ndian women cricket—a neglected cousin of the much larger men’s version—is going through an interesting phase. First came the news in January that Diana Edulji, arguably the greatest Indian women cricketer of all time, is now the only cricketer, male or female, on the BCCI’s interim panel of administrators appointed by the Supreme Court to ensure that the Lodha recommendations for BCCI reform are carried out. Then last week, it was announced that former India women’s captain Shantha Rangaswamy will become the first woman to receive the C K Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award at the BCCI Annual Awards in Bengaluru on March 8. Christchurch is lucky in a sense to be hosting a player these days, who, along with Ms Edulji and Ms Rangaswamy, has been a part of the Indian women cricket setup ever since the first team was formed in 1974. “I played alongside Diana and under the captainship of Shantha. Those days, we just played for the love of the game in spite of the constant apathy of the administrators, both at the state and national levels,” Ms Nayyar said. She is a former Indian wicketkeeper batter and is now the coach of St Albans premier women cricket team. She has also been the coach of Indian women cricket team, apart from being a BCCI match referee for women cricket domestic matches. “That’s why the appointment of Diana as the only ex-cricketer in the interim panel is such a welcome development. It’s a muchneeded clean-up exercise being undertaken by the Supreme Court, and cricket would be the overall winner in the end, I am sure. The task ahead is complicated and the panel has to take proper people in confidence to tackle issues of nepotism, political involvement and the perception of unfairness. They have my best wishes.” Meanwhile, Ms Nayyar’s own story is also nothing short of extraordinary. Youngest of the three sisters, her father encouraged her to take up sports when she was young. Starting with kho-kho, she soon found that she was good in cricket and hockey. While she played hockey for Delhi and Railways, and once attended the camp for World Cup probables, too, cricket was always her first love.

Left: Rajesh Nayyar Above:Rajesh Nayyar in an old team photograph

Her cricketing career took a big boost when it was announced in 1974 that the Australian team will tour India soon. Three test matches were scheduled and Ms Nayyar found a place in the 25 probables. The high point came when she opened the Indian innings in the second test in Delhi. Later, when West Indies toured India two years later, although unable to find a place in the Indian team, Ms Nayyar captained the North Zone team in one of the tour matches. Her comeback happened when the India women cricket team went on an overseas tour for the first time in 1976–77 to New Zealand and Australia. While all the matches played in Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington and Dunedin were one-dayers, the Indian team played a one-off test match across the Tasman. “The tour was a great learning exercise for the team, as conditions were very different from what we were used to at home,” she said. Then as luck would have it, while Ms Nayyar was in the probables when the World Cup happened in Kolkatta in 1978, she couldn’t make it to the team. As there were not many international matches happening in women cricket at that time, she kept

playing in the domestic circuit representing Delhi, North Zone, and later the Railways. “Then in 1982, when I was ignored for a national call in spite of being the third highest run-getter in the zonal tournament, I decided to bring an end to my playing career and got busy raising my family. But one good thing that I did in 1976, I got my diploma in cricket coaching from the National Institute of Sports. That helped me when I decided to take up the coaching role of the Indian women cricket team in 1989,” she said. This proved to be a godsend for the team as Ms Nayyar, famous for her work ethics and hard work, brought about a welcome change in the cricketing setup. New talent was identified and groomed. “It was good mix of youth and experience. Our efforts also led to an overseas tour of Australia in 1989, which provided us a very good opportunity to test our skills internationally. Another great learning experience was the World Cup in England in 1993. But six years of perseverance finally paid off when in 1995 we won the triangular series here, with Australia and New Zealand being the other two countries. The tournament was organised to celebrate the centenary of the establishment of the New Zealand Cricket Council in Christchurch on December 27, 1894. It was a very good decade for Indian women cricket culminating in a narrow loss in the 1997 World Cup semifinal that was held in India.”

She gave up the coaching role after that but contributed as a member of the Women’s Cricket Association of India selection committee in 2000s. In between, she was also the chairperson of the selection committee for one year. “Then when Shubhangi Kulkarni became the secretary of the Women’s Cricket Association of India (WCAI) [which later merged with BCCI in 2006], I was approached for taking up the role match referee for BCCI for domestic matches in 2004. I accepted and was in that role for almost eight years till 2014.” “In a nutshell, you can say that my cricketing life is a story of a decade each of being a player, a coach, and then an administrator. “One thing I can tell you, which might surprise many people, is that Indian women cricket is in far better shape in terms of facilities, job security, infrastructure, and sponsorship. Even when we came here in 1994, Zandu Balm sponsored our team. Other teams struggled then and still do as far as sponsorship is concerned.” Ms Nayyar concluded by sharing her future plans: “I have given cricket 40 years of my life. Now I want to take it a bit easy. But I will always be involved in the game in some form or the other. It may be with Delhi Women’s Cricket team or some opportunities here in New Zealand, similar to what I have been doing with St Albans.”

Om namah shivay—the community gets together to celebrate Maha Shivratri ¡¡ GAURAV SHARMA

rganised by the Christchurch Fiji Association and attended by more than 100 people from across communities of Indian-origin, the city saw one of the grander celebrations of Maha Shivratri on February 25. The festival, which marks the convergence of divine powers of Lord Shiva and Goddess Shakti by virtue of their marriage as well as the occasion when Lord Shiva performed his celestial dance Tandav, is observed on the sixth night of Hindu calendar’s Pahlgun month.

Vinesh Prakash, Secretary of the Christchurch Fiji Association, said, “It’s a very popular festival in Fiji, and devotees observe a daylong fast and offer fruits, flowers, and bael leaves on the Shivaling. Ritual baths of Shivaling with milk is also an important ritual of the festival. While here we perform an abridged version of the rituals involved, in Fiji, the celebrations carry throughout the night, with devotees singing Shiv bhajans all night long.” Manish Pandey, a Justice of Peace and member of Christchurch Multicultural Council, who attended the event added, “When I

came to Christchurch in 2008 as an international student, the Indian community was not very big here. Even Diwali celebrations were not that grand. But as more people from India and of Indian-origin immigrated here, the community started celebrating Holi, Ganesha Chaturthi, Shivratri, Baisakhi, and a lot of other festivals. These celebrations are a good platform to get connected [to] each other and showcase the rich Indian tradition to the wider community.” Moving forward, the association is planning for Holi celebrations Fiji-style in mid-March. “In Fiji, we have the tradition

of faag (holi-related folk songs) mandalis, which visit homes of friends and relatives, exchanging sweets, applying colours, and

playing music. In Christchurch, we have several mandalis, which are all eagerly looking forward to March 12 now.”

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 March2017

MP Bakshi: Name and shame those engaged in exploiting recent Indian immigrants —he was addressing a gathering of Indian community leaders in Christchurch on February 28

¡¡ GAURAV SHARMA

ational List MP and Parliamentary Private Secretary to the Minister of Police, Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, is encouraging the Indian community to name and shame those who are engaged in exploiting recent immigrants from India. In an obvious reference to the recent cases of Indian employers and private training establishments taken to task by the authorities for exploiting Indian workers and international students, he noted, “While majority of us [immigrants from India] are law-abiding people, I am sad to say that few— some employers and education providers—who are indulging in dubious activities are bringing a bad name to the Indian community. It is also hampering New Zealand’s international reputation.

“The co-ethnic exploitation of migrants is a very pertinent issue in today’s New Zealand. And I encourage you all to come out and voice your opinion against it.” The public meeting, which was organised by Minister and MP for Christchurch Central Nicky Wagner, also saw Mr Singh talking about his journey into politics and his experiences of being in the New Zealand Parliament since 2008. “While we have [a] good representation at the Central level, the Indian community’s involvement at the local level is still lacking. I urge you to motivate our younger generation to be more involved in day-to-day affairs of the places they live in. Join school boards, community boards, local councils, St John’s, Fire Service, or Civil Defence. Whatever suits. But get more involved,” Mr Bakshi added.

INDIAN CALENDAR - MARCH 2017 Date 2 Mar

Day Thur

Festivals & Observances Chathurthi Vrat

5 Mar

Sun

Bhanu Sapthami, Rohini Vrat

4 Mar

8 Mar

Sat

Wed

9 Mar

Thur

11 Mar

Sat

10 Mar 12 Mar

Fri

Sun

Narasimha Dwadasi Pradosh Vrat

Vasant Purnima, Choti Holi, Holika Dahan

Mon

16 Mar

Thur

19 Mar

Sun

18 Mar

Amalaki Ekadashi, Intl. Women’s Day

Masi Magam

13 Mar

14 Mar

Sashti, Karthigai

Holi

Tue Sat

Bhai Dooj, Meena Sankranti, Karadayan Nombu Sankastha Chathurthi Ranga Panchami

Sheetala Saptami

20 Mar

Mon

25 Mar

Sat

Pradosh Vrat

Tue

Chaitra Amavasya

24 Mar

26 Mar

28 Mar

29 Mar

30 Mar

Kalashtami

Fri

Papamochani Ekadashi

Sun Wed

Masik Shivaratri

Thur

Vasant Ritu, Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, Chandra Darshan Matysya Jayanthi, Gauri Puja, Gangaur

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3 March 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

All the way from India to receive his medal

haichand Patel travelled all the way from India to receive his Member of the Order of Fiji (MF) medal on Friday February 24. He was one of the 60 Fijians who received awards at the Order of Fiji Investiture Ceremony at State House in Suva. Mr Patel, 80, a former resident of Sarava settlement in Ba, where he was born and bred, now lives in retirement with his family in Sujan Singh Park, New Delhi, India. He received his medal from the President, Major-General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote. Mr Patel said: “I feel really great and humble to receive this medal from the Fijian Government. “I left this country when “I I was only a teenager feel really and I have spent great and humble to all my life and receive this medal from President Major General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote (left) awards Bhaichand Dalpat Patel with Member on of career abroad the Order of Fiji (MF) during Order of Fiji investiture ceremony at State House last week. the Fijian Government. I left and getting this Photo: Ronald Kumar this country when I was only recognition from a teenager and I have spent my own Fijian A f t e r Bachelor of Laws (LL.M) at the first when I heard the Fijian all my life and career abroad Government is a completing University of Bombay in 1961 Government had decided to give and getting this recognition great pleasure. h i s and Master of Laws at the London me the medal. from my own Fijian “I am the secondary School of Economics (London “After retirement in 1997, I took Government is a great first Fijian to be school at University) in 1966. up writing and have written about pleasure” recruited by the the Marist From 1996 to 1970, Mr Patel four books,” he said. United Nations after Fiji Brothers High practised law at the Bombay High Mr Patel’s Career: became independent in 1970,” School, Suva, Mr Patel Court. He was a barrister. »» He joined the UN Secretariat he said. applied for a scholarship to study at Headquarters in New York Mr Patel said he worked for 26 in India. Mr Patel said his parents came on September 1, 1971 in the years for the United Nations and to Fiji after the Indentured System Mr Patel studied Bachelor department of public information. retired about 20 years ago. ended in Fiji and started a shop in of Commerce (B.Com) at the He has the distinction of being “I was really surprised at Sarava, Ba. University of Delhi in 1959,

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first Fijian to be recruited by the UN after the country got its independence in 1970. »» In 1976, he was posted to Cairo as the spokesperson of the UN Peacekeeping Forces in the Middle East. »» In 1979, he was a spokesperson of the UN Security Council’s mission to the Middle East to examine Israeli practices in the occupied territories. »» In 1980 he was transferred to the UN Department for Disarmament Affairs as a Political Affairs officer. He handled media relations and was spokesperson of the two conferences, held in Geneva in 1980 and 1985 of the Parties to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation on Nuclear Weapons. »» In 1984 was appointed Secretary of the Group if Governmental Experts on Nuclear-Free-Zones. »» From 1980 to 1985 edited the United Nations Disarmament Yearbook. »» In January 1986 SecretaryGeneral appointed him as his UN representative (Political) and director of the UN Information Centre for India and Bhutan, based in New Delhi. »» In March, 1994 the SecretaryGeneral appointed him as UN representative (Political) and director for UN Information Centre for Philippines, Papua New Guinea and Solomon Island based in Manila. – Source: Fiji Sun

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www.iwk.co.nz | 3 March 2017

Fiji’s top diplomats at UN meet F iji’s Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva Nazhat Shameem Khan met with the UN President of the 71st Session General Assembly Peter Thomson. This was on the margins of the 34th Session of the Human Rights Council. Ambassador Khan discussed Fiji’s Presidency obligations under COP 23 and her role as chief negotiator. She said that Fiji would continue to work with State Parties and attend various meetings in preparation for COP 23, and is enthusiastic about the support and assistance shown by the international community. Mr Thomson advised the Ambassador that meeting various actors

Koya: Fiji will sign when ready

IJI will sign the Pacific Agreement for Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus agreement once it is ready, says Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism Faiyaz Koya. In an interview Mr Koya said Fiji needed to be 100 per cent sure about the agreement before signing it or any agreement for that matter. Mr Koya said the agreement needed to go through Cabinet too as part of procedures that needed to be taken before the agreement was endorsed. “We are still trying to iron some issues and it will not be long before we make a decision on the agreement,” he said. In September last year, Mr Koya had said Australia and New Zealand were being inflexible with issues of concern to Fiji, adding they would not sign the agreement until progress was made. Mr Koya had also highlighted that Fiji was closer than it was in September to having its concerns addressed with the deal. While he did not reveal much on the outcome of the discussions, Mr Pitt said Mr Koya was also very keen to come to a conclusion.

No tolerance for drug abuse, warns Reddy

he Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts, Mahendra Reddy, yesterday said there was zero tolerance for drugs and substance abuse cases in schools. Mr Reddy has made a clear stance that incidents related to drugs and substance abuse and consumption among students in the schools will not be tolerated at any cost. This comes in light after a few cases in schools were reported to the ministry and investigations were conducted. “Any student caught in possession of or consuming any drugs, such as, smoking Marijuana, glue sniffing etc in the school premises will be terminated from our schools on the spot,” Mr Reddy said. “We are concerned about the safety and security of all other students in the school and these kinds of behavior will not be tolerated. “However, I must remind all that we will not condone any acts of violence, abuse, drugs and substance abuse and other related behavioral issues in school. “We are steering the education system into the direction of a more dynamic and modern education system and while such incidents are unfortunate we will certainly deal with it very strictly and ensure that such cases are not repeated in future.” - Source: Fiji Sun

within the UNFCCC framework would also assist her in her role as chief negotiator and looks forward to COP 23 in November. He also discussed his role as President of the General Assembly and his efforts in ensuring a successful Ocean’s Conference, including the promotion of a Register for Voluntary Commitments for the work of the oceans agenda. He emphasised on the importance of the various leadership roles that Fiji has undertaken as co-host of the Oceans Conference and as President of COP 23. Earlier this week Ms Khan attended the opening of the 34th Session of the Human Rights Council where Mr Thomson spoke.

Fiji’s Ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva Nazhat Shameem Khan met with the UN President of the 71st Session General Assembly Peter Thomson

He spoke on the important work of the Council, and of human rights defenders

FIJI

which were inherent to the development of peace, and sustainable development globally. He said the insufficient attention had been placed on the relationship between sustained peace, sustainable development and human rights, and that more work needed to be done on the preparation and prevention of human rights violations, and conflict. An enabling environment would lead ultimately to the creation of global peace and development. Also speaking at the High level Segment were the Secretary-General of the United Nations, the High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Al Hasan, and Heads of States and Prime Ministers of several countries. Human Rights and Anti- Discrimination Commission director, Ashwin Raj, is also attending. – Source: Fiji Sun

Editorial The sharpening narrative around the “Kiwi” and “immigrant” workers

ith the election in sight, political parties have begun sharpening their narratives around immigration and labour market – the two important issues in public debate. This week Prime Minister Bill English came up with a comment that young Kiwi workers are without jobs because they are on drugs. Speaking at his weekly media conference, Mr English said two or three business owners a week told him about the difficulty in getting Kiwi workers who apply for jobs to pass a drug test. He said he had heard anecdotal evidence of it across most industries. To add to this narrative, there was few other media news where some business owners vouched about the value immigrant workers bring to their respective businesses. Expectedly, there was a normal push-back to this claim from the main opposition parties, and media commentators. Few even sighted government’s data from the NZ Drug Foundation. Labour’s employment spokesman Grant Robertson said English’s comments were a “diversionary tactic” based on anecdotes rather than hard fact. NZ First leader Winston Peters said taxpayers were being “bled dry” from National’s open door policy on immigration. In an election year, this is not unusual, and not altogether new. From an immigrant’s perspective, especially from that of a “new” immigrants who are supposedly at the core of this public debate; this statement would have come as a welcome recognition of their individual grit and determination, especially coming from the country’s top leadership. However, there are some other dimensions of this apparent clash of narratives around immigration, which should not be ignored. One critical dimension is that how such clash of narratives at the top does affect the challenge of social cohesion in our fast changing New Zealand society. When Mr English uses the word “Kiwi-workers” to compare with “immigrant workers” little bit callously, then it automatically exasperates social cleavages present in any multicultural society. It automatically generates a perception in the public that all “immigrants” are temporary workers and expected to leave sooner or later, and at the most, they are not “Kiwi”. The point being made here is that all immigrants, including new immigrants, aspire for a “Kiwi” identity, regardless of their countries of origin, ethnicity or colour. Therefore by clubbing them together just as immigrants, and not as “Kiwi–workers” automatically strengthen the perception among many people that “new” immigrants are not Kiwis, as of now or even in distant future. Mr English’s statement depicts Kiwi-workers not as an inclusive group but as an exclusive group of specific colour, habits and attitude. The reason why this point is being made here is to relate with a recent incident of an alleged racial slur on an Indian immigrant worker. The ease with which the alleged perpetrator of that racist rant shouted “go back to your country” and “were you born here” are often formed and fossilised over a period through such callous war of words at the top political level. It is not suggested that political debates are not expected or welcomed in a vibrant democracy, it is just that little bit of caution does not hurt and goes a long way in promoting social cohesion in our fast changing New Zealand society. Since new immigrants also aspire for a “Kiwi” identity, therefore it would be in larger public good to be more thoughtful in choice of words in the public debate. Probably the debate around immigration and labour market could be better shaped by using “local” workers instead of “Kiwi” workers. Former Prime Minister John Key had made similar comments about six months ago in the month of September last year stating that the problem of laziness and drugs was keeping “local workers” away from the job market.

Indian Weekender : Volume 8 Issue 48

Publisher: Kiwi Media Publishing Limited Managing Editor: Bhav Dhillon | bhav@indianweekender.co.nz Content Editor: Sandeep Singh | sandeep@indianweekender.co.nz Chief Reporter: Swati Sharma | swati@indianweekender.co.nz Reporter: Rizwan Mohammad | rizwan@indianweekender.co.nz Chief Reporter—South Island: Gaurav Sharma Chief Technical Officer: Rohan Desouza | rohan@indianweekender.co.nz Sr Graphics and Layout Designer: Mahesh Kumar | mahesh@indianweekender.co.nz Graphic Designer: Yashmin Chand | design@indianweekender.co.nz Accounts and Admin.: 09-6366306 | accounts@indianweekender.co.nz Sales and Distribution: 022 3251630 | sales@indianweekender.co.nz Views expressed in the publication are not necessarily of the publisher and the publisher is not responsible for advertisers’ claims as appearing in the publication Views expressed in the articles are solely of the authors and do not in any way represent the views of the team at the Indian Weekender Kiwi Media Publishing Limited - 133A, Level 1, Onehunga Mall, Onehunga, Auckland. Printed at Horton Media, Auckland Copyright 2017. Kiwi Media Publishing Limited. All Rights Reserved.

“The gre ate s t part of a w r i te r ’s t ime is spe n t in re ading , in orde r to w r i te ; a man w ill t ur n ove r h alf a librar y to make one bo ok .” — S amue l Johnson

This week in New Zealand’s history March 5, 2013: CENSUS HELD AFTER TWO-YEAR DELAY New Zealand’s five-yearly census had been scheduled for 8 March 2011. But after Canterbury’s devastating February earthquake, Government Statistician Geoff Bascand and Statistics Minister Maurice Williamson announced that it would not go ahead. Statistics New Zealand’s Christchurch operations had been significantly disrupted, and the exodus of people from the city would have skewed the results. Cancelling the census so close to the due date cost around $65 million..

March 7, 1947: New Zealand Symphony Orchestra debuts Classical music lovers packed Wellington’s Town Hall for the debut performance of New Zealand’s first national orchestra. After opening with an obligatory rendition of ‘God Save the King’, the orchestra performed works by Dvorak, Brahms, Butterworth, Enesco, Wagner and Richard Strauss. The National Orchestra became the NZBC Symphony Orchestra in 1963 and the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra in 1988

March 9, 1890: Sutherland Falls climbed Young surveyor William Quill needed only basic climbing equipment, including a billhook and an alpenstock, to scale the side of the ‘great Sutherland waterfall’ which cascades for 580 m near Milford Sound. Quill’s reward was to stand ‘at the summit of the highest waterfall in the world’ taking in an ‘indescribably magnificent’ view. A memorial to William Quill was erected on the Gertrude Saddle in 1932.

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 March 2017

OPINION/EDITORIAL

Understanding the Kashmir problem A A ¡¡ VEER KHAR

fter partition in 1947, both India and Pakistan retained British as the heads of their respective forces. General Busher was appointed C-in-C of the Indian army and General Gracey became the C-in-C of the Pakistani army. Lord Mountbatten (GovernorGeneral of Independent India) presided over the proceedings of the cabinet defence committee of India. A weak Britain (after WW2) roped in the support of resourceful US to contain Russia and China. The US/UK started equipping and funding the ally Pakistan who unlike India accepted stationing of their troops on its soil. Encouraged by the US and the UK, when Pakistan invaded India to grab Kashmir by force in 1947–48, Indian C-in-C exaggerated the Indian army limitations and Indian forces were not allowed to push back the invaders. Instead, the Indian government was advised by its Governor-General to take the case to United Nations where the US vetoed almost every resolution that would condemn Pakistan’s unlawful action. This resulted in a situation where India was still waiting for a decision whereas Pakistan outplayed both the US and the UK by forming a separate alliance with their enemy China. To keep its options open and strengthen its relations, Pakistan gifted parts of Jammu and Kashmir to China and even agreed to facilitate its access to the Indian Ocean. Karakoram highway and Gwadar sea port are few examples

of the resulting massive Chinese investments.

all other nation-building steps put together.

MAP

NORMALISATION

The current map of Jammu and Kashmir—the northernmost state of the Republic of India— clearly shows that China has been a major gainer in the US/UK misadventure.

EXPLOITED PAKISTAN

fter realising their diplomatic failures, the US and the UK still could not exit from Pakistan as a new situation resulted from the Russian invasion of Afghanistan. Again, aid and ammunition started flowing in to further nourish the army in a nation of poor and hapless people. In subsequent years, whenever the army might in Pakistan was challenged by any ‘democratic’ process, it resulted in coups. And as the supplies were being directed through Saudi Arabia and its allies, with these came the hardcore Wahhabi beliefs replacing the prevailing milder Sufi version. This all resulted in an exploited nation with insincere friends such as UK/US/Arabs, unwanted but unavoidable Chinese army bases, and a self-destructive national army that was using Kashmir as an excuse to keep the masses hooked

multidimensional process of normalisation should include:

on to an unjust system, never analysing that Kashmir does not even produce enough potatoes and is totally dependent on the dole from the rest of India. Today, Pakistan has become the destination of ‘training’ for indoctrinated individual from any part of the world and when the US drones kill common Pakistanis, the rich and powerful army just looks the other side; it seems to be too busy running the ‘business’. Exploited masses do not seem to have any hope of a better life.

INCOMMENSURATE INDIAN RESPONSE

ruits of development in India may be slowly reaching the masses and the ever-strengthening democracy may definitely be giving a hope. While India is abandoning its pseudo-socialistic stance, the western world may be realising its debacle and may find India as a natural ally. But with regards to Kashmir, India is yet to show a commitment. It is definitely a failed response. The ground reality is that separatist infests only five out of the 22 districts (i.e. a total of only 15%

of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh). There haven’t been any protests against India in the rest 85%area till date. The beneficiaries of the chaos on India side include the families of Abdullahs, Sozs, Syeds, Geelanis, and the likes. These thugs are party to encouraging religious fundamentalism while keeping their children tucked away in other parts of India and even overseas. These culprits have taken every opportunity to amass riches through belligerent corruption and have maintained their grip on power by manipulations. Successive Indian governments have stayed as mute spectators to appease fundamentalists for vote politics. In a country where Sikh terrorism was dealt with a heavy hand, the Muslim terrorism is given political connotation to confuse general masses. The result of this failed and inappropriate response is that in 1989–90,700,000 Hindus of Kashmir were forced to leave their homes and are now living as refugees in their own country. Religious fundamentalism has been instrumental in the ethnic cleansing of pundits from Kashmir and the failure of the Indian state to protect its own citizens nullifies

Trump’s merit-based immigration proposal could benefit Indians U ¡¡ ARUL LOUIS

S President Donald Trump’s proposal for a merit-based immigration system has the potential to benefit Indians, a large number of whom have high levels of education and skills. But this will ultimately depend on the finer details of how the proposal is implemented. In his State of the Union Address to a joint session of Congress, Trump said the US should give out green cards using a merit-based system similar to those of Canada and Australia in place of its current “outdated” programme. “Nations around the world, like Canada, Australia and many others -- have a merit-based immigration system,” he said. “It is a basic principle that those seeking to enter a country ought to be able to support themselves financially.” By not following such a system, he said the US was “straining the very public resources that our poorest citizens rely upon. “Switching away from

this current system of lower-skilled immigration, and instead adopting a merit-based system, will have many benefits: it will save countless dollars, raise workers’ wages, and help struggling families -- including immigrant families -- enter the middle class,” he said. Trump did not make any mention of those working in the US on temporary professional work visas known as H-1B. In earlier speeches, he had said that he would root out abuses in that visa category and restrict them if they were to throw Americans out

of work. Those who qualify for H1-B visas under more stringent conditions either imposed by the Trump Administration or by a bill introduced jointly by a Republican and a Democratic in Congress would likely have a leg up in the merit system. Any drastic reform of the immigration process will be a difficult undertaking for Trump. Trump did not spell out how the merit-based system would work. On the face of it, Indians would make a good fit for a merit-based system going by the community’s

current profile. According to a report by the Pew Research Centre, 70 percent of Indians in the US are college graduates. The US Census Bureau reported that in 2013, the median household income for Indian families was over $100,000. The proposal will have to clear many hurdles. First of all, it will run into opposition mainly from the Democratic Party which would argue that it would not help the poor and the unskilled immigrate to the US and discriminate against immigrants from Latin American countries whom the party counts as a key part of its base.A way out for Trump might be to barter the merit-based reform for allowing some illegal immigrants to stay on in the country. In Canada, applicants for immigration are given points for different qualifications like education, skill levels, and employability, language and family ties. They would have to meet a minimum score to be allowed to immigrate. Currently, the US immigration system restricts

1) Civilised world needs to help democratic institutions in Pakistan to wrest control from the army. India’s size and the foundations of peaceful coexistence need to be recognised with a position on Security Council. Any obsession to bring Pakistan at par with India needs to be replaced by supporting India to gain balance with China. 2) India needs to localise the problem by reorganising the state. Jammu and Ladakh need to be given the status of separate states in the union of India. Original inhabitants of Kashmir, the pundits of Kashmir need to be resettled, with dignity and 17 honour by creating a separate area with a union territory status within Kashmir. 3) Subcontinent population needs to lift their own game rather than be happy playing second fiddle to Arab Sheikhs, and every religious fundamentalist needs to understand that the diversity in beliefs paves the ways for coexistence and fresh ideas. 4) Existing line of control needs to be accepted as an international border.

Today, the Indian subcontinent is home to one of the poorest populations in the world and the only way people in this area can prosper is by diffusing the religious affiliations with modernday education. Veer Khar is President of the Manukau Indian Association. Views expressed above are his own.

the number of people who can emigrate from each country to seven percent of the total number allowed in except for immediate relatives of citizens. This has led to several years’ wait for Indians to get their green cards. There is also an annual limit of 140,000 on employment-based green cards. Because of the limits, most professionals from India have to wait as long as 12 years for a green card and those with “exceptional qualifications” nine years, according to the State Department visa availability data for March. A merit-based system has the potential to cut down the wait. How the reform would ultimately affect Indians could depend on how country limits and the cap on the number of employment visas are retained or handled and also on the retention of the immigration privileges for brothers and sisters of citizens and their families. Arul Louis can be reached on arul.l@ians.in

INDIA

3 March 2017| www.iwk.co.nz

Focus now needed on stopping black money flow: Subramanian

escribing yoga as the “sharpest weapon” in the world to fight stress and bring peace, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said it is also the passport for health assurance. Unveiling the 112-foot-tall bust of Hindu god Lord Shiva or Adiyogi at the Isha Foundation here, he said the whole world today wants peace, not just from wars and conflict but also of the mind and one of the sharpest weapons for this purpose is yoga, which fights stress. “The whole world wants peace, not only from wars and conflicts but also peace from stress. And we have yoga. If body is the temple of mind, then yoga creates a beautiful temple,” Modi said in his extempore speech. A yoga practitioner himself, he said yoga is far beyond physical exercise. Noting that the world

celebrates the International Yoga Day in a grand manner, he said that Adiyogi will inspire many generations to take up yoga. Modi further said yoga has come a long way and has different schools of thought and styles, but its essence has remained unchanged. “This the beauty of yoga. It is ancient yet modern, it is constant but evolving,” he said, adding that rejecting an idea just because it is ancient is harmful and it has to be taken to the next generation in an understandable form. According to him, yoga is a catalytic agent that changes “jeeva” to Shiva or human to divinity, and practising it develops a spirit of oneness of mind and body. “Yoga is a journey from me to we,” Modi added. He said yoga makes the individual a better person in thought, action,

I 112 feet bust of 'Adiyogi' Lord Shiva at Isha Yoga Foundation.

knowledge and devotion and it would be very unfair to see yoga only as a set of exercises that keeps the body fit. “You may see people twist and turn their bodies in many sorts of fashion. But they are not all yogis. Yoga is far beyond physical exercises. Through Yoga, we will create a new Yuga - a Yuga of togetherness and harmony,” Modi said. Dwelling on India’s diverse culture, he said diversity is the country’s greatest strength and not a cause of conflict. The Prime Minister said that Indians worship several goddesses and that the country is the land of many women saints as well. The progress of humanity lies in women empowerment and it is

time for women-led development, he said. “Woman is a manifestation of divinity, whereas a man would attain divinity only through his good deeds,” Modi said. Earlier after welcoming Modi and taking him to the places of worship inside the Foundation, its founder, Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev said humans started to look outside for their well-being which, in turn, resulted in sufferings for other living beings on earth. He said happiness is present within oneself and yoga is the scientific way of well-being. “It is not about being superhuman but about being human,” Vasudev said.

Moving at airline speed - Hyperloop One unveils 'Vision for India'

futuristic technology in the transport system could see one whiz from Delhi to Mumbai in a pod-like car in just under one hour. The system, unveiled by Hyperloop One on Tuesday, February 28, as part of its "vision for India", promises to revolutionize the advanced surface system by moving people and things at airline speeds. Hyperloop One is developing the world's first operational Hyperloop. If implemented, it would be possible to travel from Delhi to Mumbai in 55 minutes, Mumbai to Chennai in 50 minutes and Bengaluru to Chennai in 20 minutes, whizzing at a speed of around 1,100 km an hour and above. Expressing interest in the technology, Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu said India would be keenly watching the project, which the company said was on track to run the world's first full-system test later this year in Nevada, USA. "We all are living in exciting times. India is thinking of ways to revamp its railway network by various means like increasing the average speeds as well as developing specific high-speed corridors," Prabhu said. He added the high-speed rail project was also at an advanced stage while India was also partnering with private entities to co-develop new railway innovations which, for the first time, would achieve speeds higher than "what we currently call high-speed rail". Prabhu, however, added

Nick Earle, Senior Vice President of Field Operations at Hyperloop One called Hyperloop the physical broadband of transportation, comparing it to the disruption that broadband internet brought to the world.

that India chooses her partners carefully and Hyperloop One would have to undergo a rigorous, but transparent, process to partner with India. Hyperloop is a transportation system which proposes to propels a pod-like vehicle through a nearvacuum tube at more than airline speed. NITI Ayog CEO Amitabh Kant said the key to India's growth now depends on how we transform the process of urbanization and the way people move. "Future of the Hyperloop technology doesn't belong in the United States of America or in Europe. It belongs in a place that needs solutions," Kant said referring to India. Rob Lloyd, the CEO of Hyperloop One, said the technology would

India is an extremely important geography for developing Hyperloop networks and re-imagining how cities and regions work. The Prime Minister’s vision of connecting the country is directly aligned with our objective of connecting the world. – Shervin Pishevar, Executive Chairman help India build infrastructure that is both financially and environmentally sustainable. "A transportation system like the Hyperloop will undoubtedly ease the pressure on existing infrastructure while enhancing the quality of life of the people. "We are already working with the governments around the world on passenger and freight projects, and we look forward to also partnering with India to support this endeavour," he said.

Shervin Pishevar, Executive Chairman of the company said the ambitious project was in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision for transforming India. "India is an extremely important geography for developing Hyperloop networks and reimagining how cities and regions work. The Prime Minister's vision of connecting the country is directly aligned with our objective of connecting the world," he said.

ndia’s Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Subramanian said that after the attack on black money through demonetisation, the country should now focus squeezing its flow. Delivered a talk on “The Surprise that is the Indian Economy” at the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, he said the need was to adopt a carrot and stick a p p ro a ch to prevent the flow a n d generation o f black money. “Black money has two dimensions. One is generating money via prohibited illegal activities and another one involves not disclosing it to tax authorities,” he said, adding that there is a need to find out what exactly is in the system, high taxes or regulations, that is prompting some to conceal their income. Subramanian again advocated implementation of Universal Basic Income (UBI) scheme in India. “There is no scientific evidence to suggest that if you give money directly to poor, they would squander it. This is more of an elitist thought process,” he said. Subramanian, however, pointed out that for UBI to be implemented, other welfare schemes of the government would have to be withdrawn. “The UBI could cost anywhere around 5 per cent of the GDP and if we have to afford it, other schemes would have to go. That is the big challenge.” He asserted that despite opening of a large number of Jan Dhan accounts during the last two to three years, India was still far behind “perfect financial inclusion”. “Now you have UBI where the mobile (phone) can become the real effective means of financial inclusion but the shocking statistics is that 350-400 million people in India neither have smartphones nor any phone,” he said. About the benefits of demographic dividend to India, he said the country could soon see this tapering off from 2020. “The window is closing fast and we need more migration within India as some states are ageing more than the others.” Subramanian told reporters later that the government was looking at initiating strong action on banks’ bad debts. “There has been a recognition that one of the major challenges of the macro-economy is the twin balance sheet problem. “Many firms have unsustainable debt and that in turn affects the banks and hence both the balance sheets have debts. “It is having an effect on the economy in terms of reducing private investment and growth. I think in the months to come, the government will take some good, strong action against this problem,” he added.

INDIA

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 March 2017

Demonetisation: Hard work won over Harvard: Modi

n the wake of encouraging GDP growth figures released a day earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Wednesday, March 1, that "hard work has won over Harvardeducated economists" who had predicted otherwise. The Prime Minister said the Bharatiya Janata Party is winning in Uttar Pradesh after five of the seven phases of polling, and asked the electorate to vote for his party in the remaining two phases as bonus. "Well-known intellectuals from Harvard and Oxford (universities), who have been at key positions in the Indian economic system, had said the Gross Domestic Product will go down by two per cent; some others said it will go down by four per cent," Modi said at an election rally. "On one hand, there are these intellectuals who talk about Harvard, and on the other, there is this son of a poor mother, who is trying to change the country's economy through hard work." Whether Harvard will win or hard work – farmers, labourers and

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

honest people of the country have already proved it, he said. "Hard work is more powerful than Harvard. India is among the world's fastest growing economies," Modi said. "The GDP figures came out yesterday (Tuesday), and it is proved that despite demonetisation, honest and hardworking people of India – villagers, farmers and the youths – did not allow the country's development to get hampered," he said.

The Prime Minister's remarks come in the backdrop of Nobel laureate Amartya Sen dubbing the November 8 demonetisation -- in which Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes were scrapped – as a "despotic action that has struck at the root of economy based on trust". Sen is Professor of Economics and Philosophy at the Harvard University. India's GDP for the third quarter ending December 31 stood at Rs 30.28 lakh crore, recording a growth of seven per cent, compared with 7.3 per cent in the second quarter, official data released on Tuesday, February 28 said. Speaking at the rally, the Prime Minister said: "People have made the BJP victorious in the five phases; you only have to give us a bonus in the 6th and 7th phases." Targeting the CongressSamajwadi Party alliance in the state, Modi said: "One is expert in ruining the country; the other is an expert in ruining Uttar Pradesh. Will they be allowed to win?" He said the state will take revenge against those who looted Uttar Pradesh in the last 15 years.

Banking operations affected pan-India due to strike

anking operations across the country came to a halt on Tuesday, February 28, as 10 lakh bankers staged a strike against the government's "antipeople banking reforms", said a bank union leader The strike was called by the United Forum of Bank Unions (UFBU), comprising nine unions. They also pressed for compensation to employees for extra work done on account of demonetisation.

"Around 85,000 branches of commercial banks, 105,000 branches of co-operative bank and others are on strike," C.H. Venkatachalam, General Secretary, All India Bank Employees' Association (AIBEA) said. The strike covers employees and officers in all public sector banks, including State Bank of India, all old-generation private banks, foreign banks, regional rural banks and cooperative banks.

An officer in a governmentowned bank preferring anonymity said: "The clerical staff will get overtime allowance for working extra during the demonetisation period." Not agreeing with that view, D. Thomas Franco Rajendra Dev, Senior Vice President of the All India Bank Officers Confederation (AIBOC), told media: "Our demand is to treat all the employees equally. And officers will also get their due share."

Modi hails ISRO’s achivements, interceptor missile success

rime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday heaped praise on Indian scientists for launching 104 satellites into space in one go and for carrying out test of Ballistic Interceptor Missile. In the 29th edition of his radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Modi said: “India has created history by becoming the first country to launch successfully 104 satellites into space in one go on February 15. It is a day of immense pride for India. “Our scientists have brought laurels to the nation, witnessed by the whole world. Over the last few years, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) has accomplished various unprecedented missions with flying colours.” Modi also said the test of the Ballistic Interceptor Missile gave India a “cutting edge competency” in the area of security. “During its trial, this missile, based on interceptor technology, destroyed an enemy missile at an altitude of about 100 km above the earth and thus marked its success. “This is a significant, cutting edge competency in the arena of security. And you will be happy to know that hardly four or five countries in the world possess this capability,” he said. On February 11, India successfully testfired a Prithvi Defence Vehicle (PDV) interceptor missile designed to intercept and

destroy hostile ballistic missiles in space even before they re-enter the Earth’s atmosphere. “India’s scientists have demonstrated this prowess. Its core strength lies in the fact that if, even from a distance of 2,000 km, a missile is launched to attack India, our missile can pre-emptively destroy it in the space itself,” Modi added. In the test, an incoming missile was successfully intercepted at a height of 100 km with a direct hit by an interceptor missile. The PDV can reach even higher altitudes. About the launch of 104 satellites, the Prime Minister said the cost effective, efficient space programme of ISRO has become a marvel for the entire world. “The world has whole-heartedly admired the success of Indian scientists,” he said. Modi described one of the 104 satellites, Cartosat 2D, as extremely important, particularly for farmers. “Cartosat 2D is India’s satellite and the pictures clicked through it will be of great help in mapping resources and infrastructure, evaluating development and planning for urban development. “For farmers, this new satellite will be immensely helpful on a whole lot of subjects, such as knowing how much water is there in our existing water sources, how this should be best put to use, what things to keep in mind in this regard,” he said.

NEWS in BRIEF

India to closely engage with other countries over Indians’ safety

ith US President Donald Trump condemning the fatal shooting at a bar in Kansas last week that claimed the life of an Indian techie, the Indian government on Wednesday, March 1,said that it will closely engage with authorities of other countries wherever the safety of Indians is concerned. “The safety of Indians all over the world is a matter of the highest priority for the government,” said External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Gopal Baglay. “You saw that the senior authorities of the United States and Kansas where this unfortunate took place, they had a very clear and categorical approach to such crimes. “They have condemned it, they have said that they will prosecute, investigate this crime very fully... President Trump himself condemned the killing and the government will remain very closely engaged with authorities in other countries wherever the safety of Indians is concerned.” Trump began his first address to Congress at the Capitol Hill on Tuesday by condemning the fatal attack on Srinivas Kuchibhotla, saying the country “stands united in condemning hate and evil”. “Last week’s shooting in Kansas city reminds us that while we may be a nation divided on policies, we are a country that stands united in condemning hate and evil in all its forms,” he said.

Modi’s ‘Make in India’s lion doesn’t roar but whimpers: Rahul

ongress Vice president Rahul Gandhi On Friday ridiculed the ‘Make in India’ campaign of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying while a big lion was made the mascot of the campaign, it ended in a whimper of a rat. There is nothing called ‘Make in India’, he said, noting that if this was the case, then why were mobile phones in India still coming with a ‘Made in China’ tag. Accusing Modi of spreading hatred and dividing the society in the name of religion, Gandhi told a gathering in this Uttar Pradesh town that while the Prime Minister had initially promised people the moon and gave them a “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” type feeling, he ended up donning the role of Gabbar himself. Attacking Modi for doing nothing for the youth and the farmers, Gandhi said time had come when people should ask him where are the two crore jobs he promised. He also slammed the ‘Swach Bharat Abhiyan’, saying that Modi gave everyone a broom to do the cleaning while he flew to Washington to meet (then) US President Barack Obama.

INDIA ABROAD

3 March 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

New destination: Indian students

flock to Australia for higher studies

he Australian government’s campaign to lure Indian students for higher studies is bearing fruit as nearly 80,000 of them enrolled in various education and training courses in 2016. Overall, Australian universities and vocational training institutes have experienced another bumper year with more than half a million international students choosing to study Down Under. The numbers are likely to increase exponentially in the coming months as, according to some media reports, international students are beginning to shun the US because of the antiimmigrant policies of President Donald Trump. With the US and UK occupying the top two positions, Australia is ranked third as the favoured destination for international students. “With record student numbers and record student satisfaction, 2016 was a ‘gangbuster’ year for international education in Australia and the vital role it plays in our national economic

and social prosperity,” Australia’s Federal Minister for Education and Training Simon Birmingham said in a media release Wednesday. While the United States continues to be the number one choice for Indian students, Australia is clearly the second-most popular destination. A record number of 78,424 students from India enrolled in Australia in 2016. This represents an increase of 8.9 per cent on 2015 and is second only to China. India’s gigantic northern neighbour continues to occupy the numero uno position with 196,315 (an increase of 15.7 per cent on the 2015 enrollment figures). The number of commencements has also been going northwards with every year. The higher education sector has also maintained its top position with 43 per cent students opting for such courses in 2016. According to statistics provided by the Department of Education and Training, China and India accounted for 36.8 per cent and 14.6 per cent, respectively,

India asks US to take ‘strongest' action to stop attacks

nion Information and Broadcasting Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu asked US to condemn the killing of Indian techie Srinivas Kuchibhotla and take a strongest' action to prevent such attacks. Meeting reporters after consoling family members of Kuchibhotla here, he said India had taken up the issue with the US at the highest level and stressed the need to take steps to provide security and assurance to Indians living there. Voicing concern over series of incidents of alleged racial discrimination, Naidu said it was the responsibility of the US government and the civil society to put an end to this. Terming the Kansas shooting in which Kuchibhotla was killed and his colleague Alok Madasani was injured, as shameful, he said this was blot on US which claims to be the oldest democracy. "American President and people should come out openly and condemn such actions and then take strongest action and send a message that this is not acceptable," Naidu said. Stating that seven incidents of this nature occured, the Minister said that they are sending wrong message which was not good for US, its people and the world. The Minister said the US should answer the questions raised by Srinivas' wife so eloquently even in this hour of grief. He said the incident had caused anguish

Srinivas Kuchibhotla, with his wife

to Indians and brought sorrow to Telugus. He said External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj acted swiftly and directed the Indian embassy to make arrangements for bringing home the slain techie's body. Naidu, who was accompanied by Union Labour Minister Bandaru Dattatreya, said while the series of incidents caused concern among the Indian community in the US, there was no need for panic. He said it was not proper to take decisions like dropping plans to travel to the US or returning to India. "There is elected government and democratic system there. Elected public representatives there are voicing concern on such incidents," he added. Kuchibhotla, 32, was killed and Alok Madasani was injured when Adam W. Purinton, a white man who earlier served in the US Navy, shot them at the Austins Bar & Grill in Olathe, Kansas state, on Wednesday night, February 22. Purinton reportedly got into an argument with the victims and hurled racial slurs. He yelled "get out of my country", "terrorist" before shooting them. Kuchibhotla of Hyderabad were working as aviation programme managers at Garmin, an MNC.

of enrolments by students in higher education. The fascination of Indian students for vocational training courses continued for another year as students from the country accounted for 14.7 per cent enrollments in the sector. Melbourne has always attracted the bulk of Indian students and 2016 was no exception as 34,347 enrolled in various Victorian institutes. New South Wales (which has Sydney as its state capital) was number two on the list as 18,900 Indian students enrolled

there in 2016. Some experts blame higher living expenses in Australia’s largest city Sydney for this phenomenon. Thanks to the “gangbuster” year, international education has once again regained its position as the third-largest export sector. International students generated more than A$21 billion (Rs 1 trillion) of economic activity in Australia. If some media reports are to be believed, the revenue generated by international education may hit a new high in 2017 as, thanks

to President Trump’s contentious policies, more international students would pack their bags and move to Australia. So, if the aftermath of 2001 caused international students to think twice about America, what will happen this time with Trump stirring up nativism and suspicion of foreigners with every tweet and aligning himself with white supremacists? An Australian Financial Review columnist posed this query recently. One would have to wait for a while to answer this question.

Slain techie's mother not to allow younger son to return to US

fter losing one son in a racist attack in the US last week, Parvatha Vardhini is not ready to take risk by sending back another son to that country. Sai Kishore, who is employed in a firm in the US, arrived here with the body of his elder brother Srinivas Kuchibhotla, who was shot dead in Kansas by an American. Grieving over the lost of her second of the three sons, the mother is not willing to allow the youngest to return.

The eldest of the three brothers live with the parents. Kuchibhotla's body was brought home on Monday night and the last rites were performed on Tuesday. The mother blamed the policies of US President Donald Trump for the killing of her son. The techie's wife Sunayna Dumala, brother Sai Kishore and other relatives had come with his mortal remains. Sai Kishore was also settled in Kansas. It was not clear if

Sunayana, who also works at a firm in Kansas, will be returning to the US. Madasani's father Janardhan Reddy already said that he would ask his son to return home as the situation had turned bad in the US after Trump became the President. He had also appealed to parents not to send their children to the US. "My son, like many other Indians in US are well qualified and can get better jobs in India," he had said.

Trump condemns Kansas killing during congressional address

S President Donald Trump during his address to Congress on Wednesday, March 1, condemned the incident at a bar where an Indian engineer was killed and another injured by an American who mistook them for "Middle Easterners". "Recent threats targeting Jewish Community Centres and vandalism of Jewish cemeteries, as well as last week's shooting in Kansas City, remind us that while we may be a nation divided on policies, we are a country that stands united in condemning hate and evil in all its forms," Trump said. A 51-year-old US Navy veteran opened fire, killing Srinivas Kuchibhotla, 32, and injuring Alok Madasani, also 32, and an American in a bar in Olathe, Kansas, last week.

The attacker identified as Adam Purinton mistook the Indians for "Middle Easterners" and reportedly yelled "get out of my country". Ian Grillot, 24, was injured when he tried to intervene to save the Indians.

US President Donald Trump

The family of Kuchibhotla was shocked over the incident and has sought help from the state and central governments in bringing his body back home.

FEATURES

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 March 2017

It’s not what you know, it’s who you know ¡¡ RAJ SINGH

s a jobseeker in New Zealand, you would’ve heard and experienced this statement countless times: “It’s not important what you know. What is important is who you know.” And I can bet, you know or have heard about someone who got the job just because he/she knew someone in the company. Manytimes you see someone less capable or deserving taking over a position and you feel, how did that happen and why didit happen to you. We all like to think and believe that factors such ascompetence, education, knowledge, and experience should be the ideal determinants for a jobseeker to secure their dream role but who said we live in an ideal world? It is disturbing to see yourself slogging through your job search doing your best with no or minimum results and losing that chance that you wanted so badly over someone else and as a result you often feel resentful, bitter, and sour. I am new in New Zealand and I don’t have any references, I don’t know anyone. Wherever I apply, I am asked if I know anyone in the company. I don’t know what to do and where to go. He had his friends and family already in New Zealand.They helped him with his job. She had her cousin working in the same industry and her cousin went out of the way to get her the interviews. Interesting (rant), isn’t it? Here’s my suggestion: It’s not going to do any good to you or anyone else if you go around crying and comparing your situation with others and proving that life has been serving you injustice.

Things are always the way they are and haven’t been much different from than the way they always have been. We are not entirely hopeless in the world where everyone is not equal and fortunate enough to have their brothers, sisters, and uncles in New Zealand before they came here. How is it possible to play with these rules and still make success more likely? No, I am not suggesting manipulating or blackmailing anyone, I am not suggesting anything immoral or illegal (although some people are doing it), which of course, is a different topic altogether and shall be covered in future articles. I am, however, suggesting behaving in a sensible way of understanding the gravity of the situation, asking the right questions, promoting oneself well, consistent up skilling, understanding the difference between asking and offering, and always being ready to go beyond simply doing the job well. So, when you know you don’t have anyone in New Zealand as your support, what did you do to create your references before and after arriving in the country? Do you know how to create your references? Do you have a list of 50 companies that might need a candidate like you? If English is not your first language, what are you doing to improve your communication skills? Do you need/ have a mentor? Do you know how to get one? Can you give me a job? Do you have a job for me? Can you introduce me to someone who can hire me? Can you sponsor my work visa/ permanent residence? Unfortunately, seven out of 10 jobseekers are asking these questions

9 common foods to control blood pressure

sedentary lifestyle has coined a new term for us – Lifestyle diseases. These diseases are those that can easily be managed by a slight tweak in the way we lead our lives. Certain dietary additions and deductions can help you manage a case of hypertension. You may be going low on salt and doing power walks but there are many unknown and effective ways you can fight hypertension. Grapes: Grapes are a rich source of potassium and phosphorus, making them an effective remedy for high blood pressure. Potassium is a natural diuretic, making your kidneys excrete more sodium while also relaxing the blood vessels. Both of these, help in maintaining blood pressure. Banana: Another great source of potassium (450 mg/banana), bananas also contain vitamin B6, vitamin C and magnesium. Have it every day to control the reins of your blood pressure. The same was also established by a study in Journal of the American College of Cardiology. It showed that people who increased their potassium intake to 1,600 mg were 21 percent less likely to have a stroke. Garlic: Garlic dilutes the accumulated cholesterol that gets deposited on the walls of arteries and veins. Have garlic by smashing and swallowing it, two cloves every day. Garlic is known to be good for your blood flow and helps reduce blood pressure. If you

cannot have raw garlic, squeeze out its juice, take a few drops and add them into half a tablespoon of water. Have it twice every day. Coconut: Coconut water contains potassium, sodium, calcium, vitamin C and other nutrients that are helpful in controlling blood pressure. Its high level of potassium has deemed it as one of the best natural treatments for high blood pressure. Watermelon: Watermelon juice contains Arginine, an amino acid that helps in lowering blood pressure considerably. It reduces blood clotting, providing protection against strokes and some other heart ailments. Besides watermelon juice, watermelon seeds have also been proven to be very effective in controlling hypertension. A study showed that the seeds contain cucurbotrin, a glucoside, which helps in dilating blood, thereby, reducing blood pressure. Coriander: Coriander leaves contain a wide variety of bioactives which have antimicrobial, antidepressant, antiinflammatory and anxiety inhibiting properties. Coriander has been proven to reduce blood sugar, cholesterol levels and blood pressure naturally as it has a diuretic effect on the body. Mint Leaves: Mint leaves contain properties that help remove arterial plaque, a significant cause of hypertension. With a gradual removal of plaque, the pressure on heart to pump blood faster is released, lowering blood pressure. Lemon: Lemon is a very good source of Vitamin C, an ingredient that helps in strengthening capillaries. This in turn makes the heart less susceptible to hypertension. Celery: Celery has an extract called NBP which relaxes artery walls and increases blood flow, while reducing blood pressure. It has fiber, magnesium and potassium that help regulate the blood pressure.

So, when you know you don’t have anyone in New Zealand as your support, what did you do to create your references before and after arriving in the country? Do you know how to create your references? Do you have a list of 50 companies that might need a candidate like you? If English is not your first language, what are you doing to improve your communication skills? even before they have properly introduced themselves. I understand your pressure to find work but these questions will not help you. What sort of social media presence do you have? Do you use LinkedIn/Twitter? Do you use Facebook? Do you know how to use Facebook professionally? What other online platforms does your industry use? Are you

using them? Do you know what’s an ‘elevator pitch’? Do you have one? Have you identified your skills gap, if any? Do you know what your market is looking for in their ideal candidate? Have you been constantly up skilling? Who are the key players in your industry? Are you following and learning from them? Are you disciplined/punctual? Do you have a ridiculously, sickening work ethic? Are you willing to go above and beyond of what is expected of you? Do you know how to shine in what you do? Your answers to these questions could be different than mine but if you’re passionate about what you want in life, you will find an optimised answer to your questions or an answer that works for you. You might start with some answer and slowly and gradually by meeting more people and doing your own research your answer will become stronger and evolve into something that starts working for you. All you need is a consistent effort, a never-ending hunger to know, and a wisdom to ask the right questions. If someone has convinced you that, “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know” then you have two options. Either you can sit back and cry about your situation or ask a question to yourself—what should I do to know the people who are important for me?

Raj Singh is the Managing Recruiter at Rent A Recruiter Ltd and is sharing his knowledge and experience with migrants and international students in NZ

SPORTS

3 March 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

Guptill the Great: NZ vs Proteas

artin Guptill’s unbeaten 180 off 138 balls at Seddon Park will go down as one of New Zealand's greatest ever One Day International (ODI) knocks. Guptill conjured up a performance for the ages to help the Blackcaps topple South Africa’s first innings total of 279-8. His first game since returning from a hamstring injury, a slow difficult pitch, the pressure of needing to win to keep the series alive; Guptill overcame all obstacles on Wednesday, March 1, at Seddon Park to create a special night.

A handsome start The crowd welcomed back our favourite red-headed opener to warm-applause when he strolled out to the wicket. That applause would grow in decibels over the next 45 overs, but that all started with the 30-year old’s ability to see the Blackcaps through the first power play. After a semi-watchful beginning, he quickly got into his stride and by the time he reached 50 had a strike rate well over 100. After a mere 82 balls Guptill was treated to a standing ovation from Seddon Park. The opener has barely put a foot wrong on his way to three figures and it was quickly becoming apparent that this innings would stick in the mind for some time. It was a good innings at this point - it would soon become great. He now sits third on the Blackcaps all time ODI century list. Record buddies Good mates off the park and

stump, de Kock wafter his bat and caught the faintest of edges, which wicketkeeper Luke Ronchi gleefully accepted. Followed it up by dislodging Amla’s bails with a misplaced lap shot. Not a bad couple of scalps for the old fella. Knocking it around Having sent two world-class openers back to the shed, the Blackcaps were presented with two more road blocks in JP Duminy and Faf du Plessis. The experienced duo played the long game, rotating the strike and pouncing on any stray deliveries. At 125-2, they’d given the visitors a strong platform to continue building from.

Martin Guptill’

record holders on it. Guptill and Ross Taylor put on 180 for the third wicket - New Zealand’s largest against South Africa. While somewhat over-shadowed, Taylor’s innings of 66 could be considered one of the most important halfcenturies of his career. His experience allowed him to soak up periods of pressure and play the perfect second fiddle. He also got the best seat in the house to watch his friend tee off at the other end. Homer Hamilton We apologise for the baseball reference, but the man himself is a big MLB fan - Miami Twins supporter. There were no less than 11 exclamation marks in Guptill’s innings, with more than half of them threatening to leave the stadium altogether. Coming to Eden Park for the fifth ODI? Make sure you keep your eye on the ball. Hamilton heat Metaphorically and literally. Trailing in the series 2-1, the Blackcaps were under pressure to keep the series alive with a win at Seddon Park. The hot form of

South Africa matched the Hamilton climate, with sapping humidity and tropical-like conditions for the crunch encounter. After being asked to bowl first, the Blackcaps bowlers bore the brunt of the conditions during peak sunshine hours. Presto Patel! The 36-year-old made the best possible start to his return, dismissing the destructive Quinton de kick in the first over of the match. Drafting just outside off-

Clawing back Tim Southee accounted for Duminy (25), Jimmy Neesham was back in the wickets with the big wicket of du Plessis (67) and Mitchell Santner benefitted from an errant sweep from David Miller (1). With South Africa 1435, the Blackcaps had taken back the initiative and were arguably ahead of the game. There was just one problem. Deja vu De Villiers We’re out of superlatives for his freakishness, but de Villiers impact was once again significant. His genius was once again on full display and difficult not to admire, as he caressed, bludgeoned and willed his team through to an imposing 279-8. Empowering his little order along the way, de Villiers wrestled 106 off the final 10 overs of the innings and remained unbeaten on 72 from 59 balls. Simply – the man is good.

India are going to come back harder, cautions Warner

head of the second Test against India starting on Saturday, March 4, flamboyant Australia opener David Warner warned his side against any sort of complacency, saying the No.1-ranked Test side will come back harder. "They [India] are the No. 1 Test team in the world. They are a great bunch of players and we know what to expect," Warner told media. "We saw all the tricks in Pune –their bowling changes, their fielding placements, the way they play as a number one team – so for us to beat them on home soil was awesome and fantastic. But we know they're going to come back harder and we've just got to adapt to the conditions again with what we face here," he added. Commenting on the Pune strip, which drew a "poor" rating from the International Cricket Council (ICC), the 30-year-old left-hander said it wasn't a wicket where one can play his natural game. "Having looked at the (Pune) wicket, it was probably going to be a wicket where you couldn't really play your shots. You were going to have to sweep off length, not just off line," Warner said. Australia won the first Test by a mammoth 333 runs and have taken a 1-0 lead in the four-match rubber.

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 March 2017

Dumb down or get smart ¡¡ @MAHESH K

The nostalgic Nokia 3310 makes a come back

just a two megapixel one and the phone works with 2G internet (yup, no WiFi). It has got a new UI and it comes with a Dual SIM version. So all those who want to go back to the bare necessities, this is for you.

LG’s new flagship G6

A The phone might not have the bells and whistles of your iPhone but it does have something that your new iPhone does not have— the humble 3.5mm headphone jack. Nokia 3310 also sports a MicroSD card slot. The camera is

longside the launch of the king of feature phones, Mobile World Congress also saw the launch of the LG G6, which wants to be the king of smartphones. G5, LG’s flagship from last year, failed to make a mark but was appreciated for its innovative modular system. Ironically, it did not resonate with consumers and the phone did not see much uptake. But G6 is a phone that seems to have impressed everyone with its top-of-the-line specs and

driven by Android Nougat-based new LG UX 6.0, and it will be the first phone to feature Google Assistant. All in all, an impressive and thoughtfully engineered phone that has the potential to change LG’s fortunes in the mobile device market.

PRO0747_IW_033

n this age of ‘smart’, it is rare that the launch of a ‘dumb’ feature phone makes a splash in the tech circles. But that is what happened with the recent launch of the classic and iconic Nokia 3310. The phone that featured in Time magazine’s list of ‘The 50 most influential gadgets of all time’ made a comeback at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona last week. Many of us remember owning the phone and rather lovingly appreciate the simplicity of the times and unbeatable battery life it offered. So if you are sick of being distracted with the constant notifications from your smartphone and long for simpler times, you might want to go and buy this iconic phone at approximately just US$52. The phone retains the form and structure of the original 3310 but has a refresh, which makes it come across as a cool, fun device. It features a 2.4-inch, 240x320 pixel screen (yeah, please don’t compare it with HD or QHD screens that today’s smartphones come with) and comes in four cheerful and bright colours and feels light in the hand.

thoughtful design. The phone features a stunning display that is different from almost every other smartphone screen in terms of the aspect ratio. It has a 5.7-inch, 2880x1440 pixel screen, which means a 2:1 display ratio. Almost every other phone has a 16:9 aspect ratio. This means you get more screen in a smaller body. It is tall and snugly fits in your hand. The phone is also IP68 water-resistant and has a USB Type-C port for charging. In the camera department, the phone shines. It features two cameras (wide angle and normal) like many other flagship phones but some image stabilisation magic ensures great photo quality. You can shoot 4K at up to 60fps, which is pretty awesome to experience on a phone. The now nonremovable battery has been bumped up to 3,300mAh. On the software front, the phone will be

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Help guide Auckland’s direction for 2017/2018 Each year we set our budget to meet future growth and deliver the services that council provides. As part of our Annual Budget consultation we want your feedback on a range of topics including your rates, targeted rates, how we pay for investment and local activities and priorities for 2017/2018. Visit shapeauckland.co.nz for more information and to have your say.

NEW ZEALAND FIRST LIST MP

SPOKESPERSON FOR CORRECTIONS CUSTOMS ETHNIC AFFAIRS L A N D I N F O R M AT I O N N Z If you would like to discuss these or any other issues, please contact my office: P E A

04 817 8367 mahesh.bindra@parliament.govt.nz FREEPOST Parliament Buildings Wellington www.nzfirst.org.nz

AUCKLAND OFFICE P

Have your say by 4pm on Monday 27 March, 2017. For more information and to provide feedback visit shapeauckland.co.nz or your local library, service centre or local board office.

FREE PHONE 0800 BINDRA or 09 250 4070 Level 1, 21 East Tamaki Rd Papatoetoe Auckland 2025

Authorised by Mahesh Bindra, Parliament Buildings, Wellington

FUNZONE

3 March 2017Puzzle | www.iwk.co.nz solution: Play sudoku online at:

Crossword

Puzzle solution:

Play sudoku online at:

Puzzle solution:

Play sudoku online at:

Answers to last week's puzzles

Sudoku puzzle No. 3776 2017-02-13 Sudoku puzzle No. 3780 2017-02-17Sudoku puzzle No. 3781 2017-02-18

www.sudokukingdom.com 5 2 7 1 www.sudokukingdom.com 8 4 6 9 3 7 6 1 2 4 8 5 9 2 5 8 4 www.sudokukingdom.com 7 1 9 3 6 9 3 8 6 2 4 7

6 2 5 9 1

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7 3

1 5

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9 3

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7Puzzle 1 8 solution: 4 9 3

2 8

3 4 8 6 2 9 5 7

9 4 3 7 5 2 6 8 1 1 9 5 2 4 8 7 3 6 1 7 puzzle 6 9 No. 5 3777 3 2 2017-02-14 8 4 Sudoku puzzle No. 3778 2017-02-15 Sudoku Sudoku puzzle No. 3779 2017-02-16

8 6 9 3 2 5 7

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Send us stories, drawings, poems and other contributions by your little ones along with their photographs for this page. E-mail us at reporter@indianweekender.co.nz

March 3 to March 9 | By Manisha Koushik ¡¡ Aries (Mar 21-Apr 20) Don’t get distracted or drawn in by office gossip, it could lead to awkward moments later. Someone may use you to his or her ends, so be careful. Your romantic endeavors are likely to be rewarded in full measure, but your efforts will need to be commensurate. This is a fine time to apply from a car loan as chances of its getting sanctioned look bright. You may plan your vacation, but things may not go exactly as per plans. Sales professionals will need to be at their networking best to get good deals. Lucky Number- 11 / Lucky Colour- Silver

¡¡Taurus (Apr 21-May 20)

¡¡ Cancer (Jun 22-Jul 20)

¡¡ Libra (Sep 24-Oct 23)

Expenditure can only be controlled if you adhere to the budget. Maintain a balanced approach at workplace as arguments with fellow colleagues are likely. Stability in life is the need of the hour, whether it is personal or professional life. Focus on reaching a consensus with colleagues to improve your relationships with them. Travel bug may bite and take you out on a short journey. Construction may begin for an addition to your existing house.

Approaching someone for a favor is the best course to take. Chances of getting ticked off for something not delivered on the professional front cannot be ruled out. You may need to think on a different line to get a problem within grasp. Those embroiled in a legal battle can expect a trying time ahead before achieving victory. A chance to showcase talents will have to be seized. Applying new strategies at work will give you an edge over others. You may face some irreversible challenges in romantic relationships.

Lucky Number- 1 / Lucky Colour- Orange

Lucky Number- 9 / Lucky Colour- Purple

¡¡ Leo (Jul 21-Aug 22)

¡¡ Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22)

A celebration is likely to be organized soon. You can be a complete wash out in front of your rivals without competitive spirit. Those in the creative field can have a tough time in convincing a client. Be diplomatic in your interactions with your colleagues, your blunt assessment of things could hurt feelings. Switching over to healthy food will be in your favour for retaining good health. You may want to splurge on loved ones this weekend.

You may need to give credit to someone, who has put in his bit in your success. This is a good period to spend on self-grooming or go in for an image makeover. Good returns can be expected by agents in a real estate deal. You must attend a family gettogether to meet someone you have not met in ages. Time is ripe to express your love to the one you desire. Travelling out station this weekend can become more time consuming and stressful than expected.

Lucky Number- 7 / Lucky Colour- Magenta

Lucky Number- 21 / Lucky Colour- Cream

¡¡ Gemini (May 21-Jun 21)

Manisha Koushik is a practicing astrologer, tarot card reader, numerologist, vastu and fengshui consultant based in India with a global presence through the online channels. She is available for consultations online as well. E-mail her at support@askmanisha. com or contact at +91-11-26449898 Mobile/Whatsapp: +919015607139 • www.askmanisha.com

¡¡ Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 23)

Those in charge at work can punch holes in the task allotted to you and make you start all over again. Stop micro-managing and start delegating. Those in fairly new romantic relationships may want to make a deeper commitment in the near future. An urgently required loan is likely to be sanctioned. Much excitement is in store for you on the romantic front in this week. Buying property or starting a construction is indicated for some. Help will be forthcoming.

You may have to remain in the right frame of mind to tackle a sensitive matter. You are likely to prove your mettle on the professional front and make others look up to you as their leader. Jewelers or those dealing in gold and precious stones can find the week profitable. Your contribution to a workplace project or assignment may not appear adequate to higher ups. Be diplomatic if required to express your feelings and clear the air with someone. Health remains satisfactory.

Lucky Number- 17 / Lucky Colour- Light Gray

Lucky Number- 11 / Lucky Colour- Violet

¡¡ Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 21) Turbulence on the domestic front should be sorted out without any delay. There is no point in continuing in a dud job that drains you mentally and physically, so take your call if you hit the right opportunity. An expected raise or bonus can be denied adding to your frustration. Your pet project can collect dust due to your inability to raise enough funds. Legal cases will be sorted in your interest. You may spoil your chances of excelling by ignoring someone’s guidance. Meditation will help you relax. Beloved may oppose your travel plans. Lucky Number- 8 / Lucky Colour- Electric Grey

¡¡ Aquarius (Jan 22-Feb 19)

This is not the time to incur any heavy expenditure as it may become difficult for you to cover up this amount. You may find difficult to get things done by subordinates but it won’t affect your overall schedule. Changes made by you at workplace may not be appreciated by subordinates. Organizing a party can have its share of hassles, but it will turn out to be a thumping success. Those longing for lover will have to think out ways of meeting more often. An estranged family member may keep you mentally tensed. You manage good health.

There is many a slip between the cup and the lip, so don’t get upbeat about anything, unless you are certain. Out of box thinking will help you plan better career moves and also pave the way for new avenues. Focus on meeting important deadlines, delays will not go down well. Homemakers may find it difficult to balance the budget due to mounting expenses. A medical condition can aggravate and even warrant hospitalization for those ailing for long. Romantic front proves promising.

Lucky Number- 18 / Lucky Colour- Red

Lucky Number- 3 / Lucky Colour- Light Yellow

¡¡ Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21)

¡¡ Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20)

You will need to remain guarded at work. Look interested, as your indifferent attitude can put off lover. A business deal may not turn out the way you expected. Those of you looking for work could hear some developments soon. Thoughts of getting even with someone will make it difficult for you to keep your mind at rest. Keep your mood swings under control as they threaten to spoil the work atmosphere. Impulsive remarks will only worsen the situation. Loved ones will appreciate your support, but also need their space.

The week looks to be hectic at work and distractions too will make it harder for you to concentrate on the tasks. You will need to do the balancing act on the professional front, so as not to fall foul of anyone. Plans may have to be reworked to make them more efficient. Maintain confidence regarding a property deal being negotiated by you. Sharing your innermost thoughts with someone close is not recommended at this juncture.

Lucky Number- 15 / Lucky Colour- White

Lucky Number- 2 / Lucky Colour- Cream

MELBOURNE WORLDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MOST LIVEABLE CITY

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3 March 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

Harshad Patel: A story of four decades of service to the community ¡¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

arshad Patel, QSM, a prominent face in the Indian community has been serving the community in Auckland for almost four decades. Mr Patel hails from Gujarat, India. He completed his Bachelors Degree in Chemistry in 1972 and came to New Zealand with his wife in 1974 in search of a better life and career prospective for himself and his family. Here is an excerpt from an exclusive interview with him.

IWK: Tell us about how started your Kiwi journey?

Mr Patel: I started my professional journey here as an officer in bulk tonnage with NZ Railways. Since I was from a chemistry background, I wanted to work in a laboratory. I applied for the relevant jobs in the labs, and after a long struggle, I managed to get the job with NZ Farmers Fertilizer as Research and Development technician. Unlike now, it was tough to get employment in a particular field with qualifications from an Indian institution, as only a few Indian universities and institutions were recognised here. I worked there for a few years before travelling to the UK and India in 1977. After returning from India, I found a job as a laboratory technician with Auckland Regional Authority, which later became Auckland Regional Council.

“

I have witnessed how the community has grown to be more than 150,000 now from a mere 5,000 in 1974... I am proud to say that I have played a reasonable role in tying the community strong together

IWK: How did you connect with the Indian community here?

Mr Patel: The Indian community was very small when I moved here. There were no temples, few Indian restaurants, and no dedicated community centres except for the Gandhi Hall in the CBD region. We celebrated Indian festivals there with a small

number of people from the community. Music and cricket were two of my passions that acted as a medium to connect and know the wider Indian community here. I started playing cricket and hockey for the Auckland Indians Sports Club and also played instruments such as harmonium, flute, piano, banjo, and accordion at different community events. Navratri was one of the most popular celebrations for the community, and I started playing music for the event that eventually introduced me to the Auckland Indian Association in 1979. I performed at many community events and festivals, and later in 1984, I was elected as the Chairman of the Entertainment Committee and looked after the portfolio for 21 years.

IWK: How did you contribute towards building a stronger Indian community in Auckland?

Mr Patel: The population of the Indian community was growing here, and we realised we needed a bigger place to host our events. I, along with a team of dedicated members, actively participated in raising funds to buy a property and establishing a big community centre. We bought the property from Findlay’s Bakery in 1989 and refurbished it to Mahatma Gandhi Centre. In 1996, I was elected as the vice-president of the Auckland Indian Association and then president of the Auckland Indian Association in 1999. My role as the head of the association was to look out for the community here, address the issues and concerns of the community, and resolve them. I also served as the president of the Pt Chevalier Lion’s Club and helped raise fund during national disasters. We wanted to another place of worship since the Balmoral Temple constructed in

1993 was the only place of worship for the Indian community. We made a temporary worship place at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre, and in 2001, we demolished the place and constructed the Radha Krishna temple. I also served as the vice president and president of the NZ Indian Central Association, the oldest Indian community organisation of New Zealand.

IWK: How would you describe the four decades of your journey in New Zealand?

Mr Patel: The journey has been fruitful, and I have witnessed how the community has grown to be more than 150,000 now from a mere 5,000 in 1974. Initially, I would feel aloof and alienated as many Indians did, but I am proud to say that I have played a reasonable role in tying the community strong together. I was honoured with the Queen’s Service Medal in 2010 for my services to the Indian community in New Zealand. Making time for my family was challenging when you commit to the community, but my family has stood by me, helping me to perform my duties towards the community and the country as a whole. IWK: What is your message to the Indian community in New Zealand?

Mr Patel: Remember your roots because that is your identity and this is what you and your children will be known for generations to come. You have adopted New Zealand as your motherland, so perform all your duties and show gratitude to this country for providing you work, respect, and a peaceful multicultural society.

Bhagavad-gita’s answer to real freedom Bhagavad-gita 3:39

¡¡ ACHARYA DAS

any people think of freedom as being free to act as you please, without any inhibitions. The dictionary generally gives two main definitions of freedom. One is the state of not being imprisoned or enslaved. The other is the power or the right to act, speak, or think as one wants. The state of not being imprisoned or enslaved can be a form of freedom. But the idea that the power and the right to be able to speak or act as you want without any hindrance is a limited understanding of freedom. It ignores the law of karma, whereby for everything you do, every act you make, there is an equal and opposite reaction. While you may be free to choose how you act, you cannot escape the result of these actions. So, therefore, are you truly free?

Another understanding of our lack of freedom comes from the recognition that it is possible to become enslaved by my own mind and desires. When a person is unable to control their mind and desires, they are forced to act, sometimes against their will or better judgement, and they must then accept the consequences of these choices and actions in the form of karmic reaction. Shackled to this world by the laws of karma, some people receive good results from their actions and others receive unfortunate results. In both cases, they are in the same situation; both are bound in different ways. By falling victim to the desires of the mind and always feeling that we must follow its demands, we become perpetually bound to this world. This means repeatedly suffering the natural processes of disease, old age, and death and then birth again.

If we allow ourselves to become controlled and directed by our mind and senses in the hope that we’re going to get some actual lasting happiness, then we remain unfulfilled, empty, and a slave to those desires. Most people are unaware that our desire for happiness (and love) arises from our innate spiritual nature, which is the core of our being. The truth is, we are not the body or the mind we are temporarily residing within and using, but the spiritual being (atma) within. Living in the illusion that this body is “me”. We mistakenly conclude that by trying to satisfy the desires of the mind and senses we will experience real happiness. This is untrue. By chasing the desires of the body and mind, I might get a rush or some temporary stimulation, but it will not actually fulfil “me”, the spiritual person within. This condition of being so completely overwhelmed by the mind and the senses that we lose our actual spiritual identity is spelled out clearly in the Bhagavad-gita:Thus the wise living entity’s pure consciousness becomes covered by his eternal enemy in the form of lust (or intense desire) which is never satisfied and which burns like fire.

The reality is that material pleasure cannot fulfil you. Your attempt at fulfilling material desire is like putting gasoline on a fire. It only makes it burn hotter and stronger. This kama or lust (intense desire) manifests in so many different ways and is categorised as ‘the eternal enemy’ of the “self ” within the body. The way that you can come to a position of real freedom is by altering the direction of your life. You have the freedom to choose how you are going to live. It is within your own power to determine the outcome of your life and whether you achieve the state of complete freedom or not. Being situated in such a position one is never shaken even in the midst of the greatest difficulty. This indeed is actual freedom from all miseries arising from material contact.

Bhagavad-gita 6.23 This state of actual freedom and the awakening of spiritual love that arise from mature spiritual realisation are far beyond anything of this world. In this condition, one is truly happy and truly free. Acharya das is a respected teacher of Vedic and yogic philosophy, meditation and kirtan, and a practitioner of the transcendental science of Bhakti Yoga. He has taught yoga wisdom to appreciative audiences for over 40 years and is a world-renowned speaker. Acharya das is currently in Auckland and holds regular discourses on yoga wisdom. For more information about these discourses, to ask questions, or to read more in-depth articles on these subjects visit. www.Acharyadas. om.Facebook – acharyadas108. www. meditationnewzealand.co.nz

ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 March 2017

AUCKL AND’S HOT TEST BOLLY WOOD STATION

Movie Review: Kangana excels in Rangoon ¡¡ U. PRASANTH NAYAK

he interior of a grandly domed regally coloured film theatre looms larger in wide-angle splendour as the lens tracks upwards. An opening salvo launches a powerfully depicted battle as bombs blast their targets asunder while men rip into each other l ike crazed animals. A British army major croons Hindustani with the harmonium in a strikingly odd moment of offbeat humour. And towards the finale, a lady dressed as a dashing action figure sprints atop a moving train in a dazzling fusion of her cinematic past and daredevil real-life present as the heroine who rises thrillingly to save the hero. These are some of the remarkable scenes in Rangoon, the new film by Vishal Bhardwaj. Set in the closing years of British Raj in India, the good old love triangle is marooned supposedly near Rangoon where the jungles witness a battle between the British, Japanese, and Subhash Chandra Bose’s doomed Indian National Army (INA). Miss Julia (Kangana Ranaut) is a flamboyant heroine of second-rate action flicks famous all over film-watching India for her swashbuckling on-screen adventures. Rising from a disadvantaged childhood, she is now set to marry the handsome movie moghul Rusi

Billimoria (an unremarkable Saif Ali Khan), who seeks to escape the attachments of his first wife and a manipulative father. Julia gets dragooned into doing a show in Burma to entertain the soldiers of the British Indian Army.

That’s where her affections get increasingly intertwined with Nawab Malik (a simple but strongly straight-arrow Shahid Kapoor)—a soldier for the British Indian Army and also a mole for the INA. Tensions erupt amidst Julia’s

shows when the British start suspecting and then eliminating these hidden INA freedom-fighters. What could have been a cracker of a film, with a brilliant intertwining of warring factions, tortured romance, and suspense in the formidable jungles-n-swamps of Burma, ends up merely as a relatively interesting tussle, owing to the script’s inadequately realised potential and uninspired direction. Kangana excels as the feisty Julia who effortlessly oscillates between light-hearted abandon and deep emotion. Julia does not hesitate to canoodle with another man though she’s set to marry someone else. When the going gets tough, she takes the toughest of stands. There is subtle feminism even after she eventually leaves the scene, as the telling aftermath triggers a wholly unexpected transformation. The track involving a captured Japanese soldier is designed to have comedic overtones, but care should have been taken not to caricature him, at least as a mark of respect to Japan, which was the only country that agreed to help the Indian nationalist movement. Dialogues often sparkle. The last line directed at the Japanese soldier seems simplistic but is profoundly humanist. The Indo-phile Major Harding issues a genuine zinger when he rues how “Tagore’s beautiful song has become the anthem of so doomed a cause as that of t

he INA’s.” But when he declares “When the British leave India, this country will become one of the world’s most corrupt societies,” there is sadly no one to counter that preposterous hypocrisy by riposting, “When the British have left India with a literacy rate of 12% after 130 years of ‘governing’ the country, what else do you expect to happen in the initial stages?” The climax with its devilmay-care shades of incredible action powered by love, loss, and patriotism, transcends banal things like credibility—it is a muchneeded last hurrah in a tale crying for one. But such mundane things as consistent technical polish are not in abundance in the film overall, with some action sequences’ flaws ranging from flickering frames to sub-optimal special effects. Pankaj Kumar’s long-range shots are admirable, but that same quality is missing in close-ups and camera movement. Pairing the runtime from the actual 154 minutes to a snappy 120 would have been smarter, but tight editing is not Bhardwaj’s forte. He continues to consolidate his reputation as one of India’s most versatile directors, but unwittingly not yet as one of its best ones. Rating: 3.5/5 Director: Vishal Bhardwaj Cast: Kangana Ranaut, Saif Ali Khan, Shahid Kapoor

Alia inspires, challenges Akshara Karan Johar plays down

udding actress Akshara Haasan who will be seen in upcoming family entertainer, Laali Ki Shaadi Mein Laddoo Deewana, says Alia Bhatt challenges her as an actress. “I remember watching her since her first movie SOTY. I love the way she has grown up as an actor. I really respect her for that. It’s beautiful to watch her on-screen,” she said. “She is natural and acts with ease. Kudos for what she has achieved for herself,” added the daughter of actors Kamal Haasan and Sarika. On being asked about any competition between them, she said, “We always face competition

even when we are in high school. Fortunately, when I met her, I felt she is a wonderful person... Alia challenges me and inspires me as an actress. “If she can do, I would like to do my best as well.”

Govinda to go live on TV

ctor Govinda will go live on the small screen through live voting-led singing TV show Rising Star. Govinda will digitally connect with the show to promote his upcoming movie “Aa Gaya Hero”. After the audition round, Govinda will announce names of the contestants who will proceed in the competition. Though Govinda will not be physically present on the set, he will go live in the middle of the shoot to encourage the contestants to put their best foot forward. “I’ve been following ‘Rising Star’ since its launch. I’m impressed by its live format and the exceptional performances presented by the talent,” Govinda said. He added: “It’s an absolute pleasure for me to

Akshara, 25, who made her film debut with Shamitabh spoke about her delay in signing the next project, “I guess I wasn’t fit for the roles I was offered. I found a lot of soul and emotion in this role. The story is very realistic.” Akshara plays a strong-headed modern girl from Vadodara in the film, which revolves around a royal marriage and quirky characters hilariously trapped in their own tragedies. Akshara is featured opposite Vivaan Shah in the film. Written and directed by Manish Harishankar and produced by T.P. Aggarwal and Rahul Aggarwal, the film is set to hit the screens on April 7.

be part of such a pathbreaking show, and I am looking forward to an entertaining and musical night!” Rising Star is a first-of-its-kind interactive engagement-led format which puts the power of deciding the fate of the contestant in the hands of the viewers. Aired on Colors channel, the show is judged by Diljit Dosanjh, Shankar Mahadevan and Monali Thakur.

Kangana’s nepotism remarks

ilmmaker Karan Johar says actress Kangana Ranaut’s remarks about him promoting nepotism in the film industry doesn’t hold true for him, adding that she made “sweeping statements” to make an impact. Kangana, known for her brazen honesty, took a dig at Karan when she appeared in one of the episodes of his chat show Koffee With Karan. She called him the “flag-bearer of nepotism” in Bollywood. Karan expressed his views when a social media Kangana, user, during a live known for her chat session on brazen honesty, took Twitter, asked: a dig at Karan when she “Was Kangana appeared in one of the correct about episodes of his chat show nepotism?” Fawad Khan. Now, Koffee With Karan. She He posted: Karan hopes that called him the “flag“Not entirely! he gets to spend a bearer of nepotism” She made an year without offending in Bollywood impact with her anyone. Asked about sweeping statements! his biggest achievement, That was fun... for her! And the filmmaker said it is the show.” Asked whether he is surviving Twitter. obsessed with star kids, Karan said: Another thing he discussed during “Ask Kangana.” the chat session was his relationship The year 2016 was a difficult status. Karan, who wrote about one for Karan as his film Ae Dil his sexual orientation in his book, Hai Mushkil got into trouble due said he is “single, available and to the presence of Pakistani actor borderline desperate”.

FEATURES ENTERTAINMENT

3 March 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

Deepika, Priyanka dazzle and Dev Patel, Sunny Pawar stole many hearts

DESI TOUCH TO HOLLYWOOD’S RED CARPET Another Mumbai slumkid Sunny Pawar basks in Oscar glory

umbai slumkid and Lion star Sunny Pawar basked in the limelight at the 89th Academy Awards ceremony where he won accolades from the audience having some of the world's greatest actors after re-enacting a scene from The Lion King with host Jimmy Kimmel. The seven-year-old was selected from 2,000 children across schools in India to play the role of the young Saroo Brierley. A Class 3 student of the Air India Model School where he is good in studies, Sunny and his younger brother and sister, live with parents Dilip Pawar, a former government office sweeper, and homemaker mother Vasu, in a slum in Kalina in the western suburbs, near the airport. Despite his humble background, Sunny zoomed through auditioning rounds in Mumbai and Pune to land a plum role in the blockbuster Hollywood biographical film Lion, sources close to his family and the production house said. "Sunny was selected from around 2,000 talented children in a hunt in schools all over India, culminating in the final auditions held in Mumbai and Pune some one-and-half year ago. He fitted the role perfectly," a source said. Sunny has become the most popular child star of the awards season. Close on the success of Lion", Love Sonia featuring Sunny and another Mumbai girl Frieda Pinto is ready for release later this year. "However, he has not exactly been swamped with offers from Bollywood. But that is because he has remained extremely tied up with Lion and

Love Sonia and was away from the country for several spells," the source said. It is not known when Sunny will return home, but he can surely expect a Lion's welcome! I n c i d e n t a l l y, exactly 10 years ago, some slum children from Mumbai had grabbed global attention with Danny Boyles' Slumdog Millionaire, which incidentally starred a much-younger Dev Patel in a key role. The main child actors in that multi-Oscar winning film – Rubina Ali, Azharuddin Mohammed Ismail and Tanvi Ganesh Lonkar – are now grownup teenagers leading normal lives in Mumbai, away from the arc lights. Meanwhile, India’s darling and the current sensation of the West, Priyanka Chopra graced the red carpet looking like a vision in white in a Ralph and Russo gown. The

Dev Patel loses out Oscar to Mahershala Ali

ndian-origin British actor Dev Patel failed to win an Oscar as American actor Mahershala Ali walked away with Best Supporting Actor trophy for Moonlight. Dev was is in contention for Best Actor in a Supporting Role trophy for Lion. Other contenders included Jeff Bridges for Hell or High Water, Lucas Hedges for Manchester by the Sea and Michael Shannon for Nocturnal Animals. Dev, who attended the ceremony with his mother, was seen cheering for Ali when he was announced as the winner. Ali was presented his first Oscar by actress Alicia Vikander at the 89th Annual Academy Awards – being held at the Dolby Theater in Hollywood. Ali also became the first Muslim actor to take the golden statuette with the win. "I want to thank my teachers ... I have so many wonderful teachers," he said before naming those who inspired him. "My teachers told me that 'it wasn't about you but these characters'. It is service to these stories and characters. I would also thank the cast and crew for the wonderful experience," Ali added.

Om Puri remembered at Oscars I ndian actor Om Puri, whose repertoire as an actor reflected a rare realism and was popular for films like East Is East, Gandhi, City of Joy and Wolf, was honoured at the 89th Academy Awards ceremony hin the "In Memoriam" montage. Om Puri, who died after a heart attack in Mumbai, India in January earlier this year, got a musical tribute by Grammy and Tony-nominated singer and songwriter Sara Bareilles. Bareilles delivered a special performance of the Joni Mitchell song Both sides now. A visibly emotional actress Jennifer Aniston introduced the memoriam segment.

Om Puri was remembered at the awards ceremony, which was held at the Dolby Theatre. He was included in the annual montage along with Carrie Fisher, Prince, Gene Wilder, Michael Cimino, Patty Duke, Garry Marshall, Anton Yelchin, Mary Tyler Moore, Curtis Hanson and John Hurt. Bareilles created an emotional moment as she rendered the song in memory of all the departed souls. While not in the video presentation, actor Bill Paxton, who died the night before, was mentioned by Aniston before Bareilles took the stage. Om Puri was known for his deep baritone and different acting style, as well as craggy,

Quantico star was seen sporting a column gown that accentuated her perfect 10 bod. What added to the magic of the ivory white creation was its structured and bold bodice, that is part sexy and part sassy. Priyanka completed the look with sleek hair, nude lips, drop earrings and chunky bracelet.

pockmarked but distinctive face. He had an affinity towards socially relevant cinema. A National School of Drama alumnus, Om Puri nurtured an international career, which started with a cameo in Richard Attenborough's iconic "Gandhi". Among some of his British films were My Son the Fanatic, East Is East and The Parole Officer. He also appeared in Hollywood films including City of Joy, Wolf and The Ghost and the Darkness. A Padma Shri awardee and National Award-winner, Om Puri was also made the honorary officer of the Order of the British Empire for his services to the British film industry.

FEATURES The Black Orchid Paradisa

Dtae: Friday, March 04 Time: 7 p.m. onwards Venue: Te Pou Theatre- 44A Portage Rd, New Lynn, Auckland One island and five stories. A multicultural look at the different facets of the Fijian culture. Rina’s Cleaning Service brings to you a development season of Anjula Prakash’s new work based on real events from the beating heart of Fiji. Through Fijian, Indian, and Western perspectives, the different facets of Fijian culture and mythologies are explored in this poetic and imaginative new work. Presented as part of Auckland Fringe festival from 21st February and 12th March 2017.

Christchurch HoliFestival of Colors

Date: Saturday, March 4 2017 Time: 11a.m. to 3 p.m. Venue: Central Christchurch 221 Gloucester Street, Christchurch This year Holi is all about celebrating the people of Christchurch. Cultural-fusion performances will showcase the many different cultures in our community, joining together for one big party. Tips for the day: - Wear old clothes as the colour may not wash out. - Wear comfortable flat shoes that you don’t mind getting stained. - Bring cash to buy colour and enjoy delicious Holi food.

CAB New Lynn

Date: March 11 and April 8 2017 Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Venue: Library Building, 3 Memorial Drive, New Lynn CAB New Lynn will hold three free information sessions for newcomers on Finding Employment in New Zealand. The topics will cover: Pre-employment – What you need to know? Job search – How to apply for jobs? Preparing for your first job. To register please drop in, call or email at

3 March 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz Citizens Advice Bureau New Lynn. Phone 827 7830 or 827 4731, Email newlynn@ cab.org.nz. Light refreshments will be provided.

Rang Colours

Date: Saturday March 18 and Sunday march 19 Time: 6 p.m. onwards Venue: Kavanagh College Auditorium, 340 Rattray Street, Dunedin, 9016 Natyaloka presents RANG – Colours. With RANG, internationally acclaimed artists Nirupama &amp; Rajendra are collaborating with local artist Swaroopa in bringing the dance form Kathak to Dunedin audience for the first time ever! Tickets: $20/$10 and Gold coin entry for school children. Available at www. dunedinfringe.nz, Fringe HQ at 26 Princes Street and door sales (cash only). For morfe details contact Swaroopa on 02102438737 or natyalokanz@gmail.com

TRENZ 2017

Date: Tuesday May 9 to Friday May 12 Time: 6 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. Venue: Queens Wharf, Auckland, New Zealand TRENZ is New Zealand’s most significant business-to-business travel and trade show, with over 1200 delegates attending over the four day event. This leading event will captivate you with exciting new products and Sellers, combined with great networking opportunities. For more information on the event visit TRENZ website www.trenz.co.nz.

READY FOR A NEW CAREER?

Waitakere Holi Mela 2017

Date: Sunday, March 19 Time: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Venue: The Trust Arena, 65 Central Park Drive, Auckland Hosted by Waitakere Indian Association, the day will be full of colours, music and food. Get your family, friends and neighbours for a full day of fun.

Salman Khan’s DaBang, The Tour

Date: Friday, April 21 Venue: Vector Arena, Auckland Bollywood heartthrob Salman Khan will set the stage on fire on April 21 at Vector Arena. The Da-bang tour will include Bollywood A-listed actors Sonakshi Sinha, Bipasha Basu, popular TV host Manish Paul, actor-dancer-director Prabhu Deva, and rapper Badshah. Tickets are available on www.dabangnz2017.com and on Ticketmaster.co.nz.

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