Indian Weekender 7 April 2017 by Indian Weekender

Babbu Maan

7 APRIL2017

Auckland

Vol. 9 • Issue 3

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7 April 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

Shopkeeper ‘appalled’ by delay in police

“

emergency response when locked inside with robbers ¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

liquor shop owner is “appalled” by “less than satisfactory” response from Police emergency services after his store manager had locked a robber inside the shop and called the emergency line 111 to seek immediate help. The incident took place in a liquor shop at Newmarket on Sunday, April 2, at around 5 p.m. when an offender who had returned to the shop after having escaped earlier in the day without paying for the bottles, possibly to try his luck again, only to be identified by the store manager. The store manager immediately put the shutter down and called the police before informing the store owner. What happened from here has left the store manager and the store owner aghast and in disbelief. The store owner, Rutul Jani, who was at Lynnfield at the time when his store manager had called to inform about the fact of a robber being locked inside the shop managed to reach the shop in next 20 minutes only to find that police had still not arrived at the scene. Surprised by the delay in the arrival of police, Mr Jani chose to

Although my first reaction was to hold that guy in the shop and get the police take him away, situation got tense as increasingly it became evident that police would not be coming anytime soon Chintan Patel at Bottle Shop liquor store in Newmarket

walk to the Police station across the road and get help. Two policemen had accompanied Mr Jani immediately from the police station, but almost after half an hour of their first call to the police emergency line. However, the emergency response team did not arrive altogether. Nevertheless, this was not the end of their story about frustration with police response to a situation which could have easily worsened and risked the safety of his staff and a member of the public who was

also locked inside the shop. Speaking to Indian Weekender, the store manager Chintan Patel, who was at the forefront of this saga described the situation as “scary and tense” when inside the shop with the robber. “Earlier in the day two offenders had escaped with bottles, and then one of them returned to the shop to get more stuff from the shop. I recognised him immediately and brought the shop’s shutter down,” Mr Patel said. “Although my first reaction was to hold that guy in the shop and get the police take him away, situation

got tense as increasingly it became evident that police would not be coming anytime soon. “I became more and more scared and confused while speaking with the operator on the emergency line,” Mr Patel further said. The fact that police emergency team chose not to come to the scene immediately even after being categorically told by the store manager that robber was still locked inside the store is a cause of concern. “The operator kept on asking me about the looks and appearance of the robber and also told that police

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would not be able to come before 30 minutes. Eventually, based on our conversation on the phone, the operator issued a trespass notice for that robber and asked me to open the store and let that guy go,” a visibly baffled Mr Patel said. By the time, store owner Mr Jani managed to bring Police on his own from the nearest police station; the store manager was advised by the operator on the emergency line to allow the robber to leave. Sunny Kaushal, a community leader and the lead organiser of Crime Prevention Group, a new community initiative formed to raise awareness and solidarity about the increasing numbers of aggravated robberies on local businesses expressed his dismay on the failure of police to respond in a timely manner. “If members of public and shopkeepers have to go to Police station, literally begging them to come and catch the offenders then it is very shameful for the New Zealand police and the Minister,” Mr Kaushal said. This was the fifth robbery incident reported by the community directly to the Crime Prevention Group indicating that the group is getting some momentum in the community on the issue of robberies and aggravated assaults.

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www.iwk.co.nz | 7 April 2017

‘Take back control of our town centres in

South Auckland,’ community urges to the police ¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

n a passionate plea by many small businesspersons of the Indian community, the police is being urged to take back control of many town centres in South Auckland, which according to them are currently under the clutches of gangs of young criminals. “I think the biggest problem today is that youth gangs have taken over the town centres. The police needs to do something to take back the control of these town centres,” one of the business owners from South Auckland said in a community meeting on rising crime in Auckland. A group of small business owners were interacting with Associate Minister for Justice Mark Mitchell at a community meeting convened by National Party MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi on Saturday, April 1, in Papatoetoe, over the issue of the recent spate of aggravated robberies. This was a follow-up meeting from an earlier meeting held on the previous Saturday (March 25), where a group of aggrieved shop owners under the aegis of a recently formed community action group—Crime Prevention Group—have sought immediate government attention. The meeting was well attended, however, many from the previous meeting, including Sunny Kaushal, the lead organiser of Crime Prevention Group, were not present at the meeting.

Associate Minister for Justice Mark Mitchell at the meeting

Crime Prevention Group was formed a fortnight ago after a brutal attack on husband-wife duo owners in a Mt Roskill dairy in Central Auckland, which left the owner badly injured. The dairy owner, Jitesh Patel, is still not back to work, even after three back-to-back surgeries in the North Shore Hospital, and is without any financial support for the business. An incensed community had then formed Crime Prevention Group with the intention to attract government’s immediate attention to the problem of the rising spate of aggravated robberies, which largely affects small business members in the wider community. This meeting was a departure from many previous meetings on the issue in a sense that the Minister chose to bring an array

of senior officials from police and different ministries in the government to demonstrate their commitment towards the rising crime, particularly aggravated robberies in the community. It is to the credit of Mr Bakshi for bringing in a well-prepared Minister and his troops from the officialdom and in being better prepared himself than he was at the previous meeting a week before to respond to the concerns of many in the community. The key speakers, apart from the Minister, were Andy Costa, Assistant Commissioner of Police and Deputy CEO in the Ministry of Justice; Allan Warren, Assistant Commissioner of Police and CEO of the newly formed Ministry for Vulnerable Children, Oranga Tamariki; and Rajesh Sharma, Deputy Secretary of Policy, Ministry of Justice.

However, members of the community, many of who have been victims of robberies, did not seem much impressed with the ‘rosy picture’ painted by the officials and the Minister about the “declining numbers and statistics of crime in New Zealand.” Despite best efforts from many speakers in the meeting, the community remained unfazed by what the government was doing behind the scene and what had been done in the past. Their questions and concerns were about now and today—the recent increase in robberies in and around South and Central Auckland—which remained largely unanswered. In fact, it would not be an exaggeration to comment that the meeting continued at two different levels. At one level, the representatives from the government shared insights on how government’s efforts were leading to a decline in crime, and at the other level, the victims continued to share their plight and evidence of operational lapses on the part of police and justice system in apprehending and holding alleged perpetrators of crime behind the bars. To be fair to the officials and other speakers, they fully acknowledged the plight and sense of pain among the victims of crime but perpetuated on the

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government’s line of argument that crime numbers are declining. One glaring omission from the responses of government representatives was the issue of recent spate in ram-raids and aggravated robberies. There has been a surge in the number of aggravated robberies since the beginning of this year, and in particular, in the last couple of months. Indian Weekender has published a detailed story about the spate of crime and sense of perpetual fear among the small business owners, particularly in South Auckland. In the meeting, almost everyone agreed that the sheer audacity of ram-raids has increased manifold in recent times, which was unforeseen by many in the community for decades. The Minister and the other government representatives failed to enlist what immediate urgent actions they have initiated at an operational level to control and deter the rising nuisance of youth crime. Against this backdrop, the Minister’s comment that many of seasoned offenders that we are seeing today were the product of a generation of a dysfunctional social system, coming eight years after National Party’s reign in the government, deserves some further explanation.

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Green Party seeks inroads in Kiwi-Indian community; launches Raj Singh as candidate in Manukau East ¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

they will surely be able to take an informed decision.

he Green Party is continuing its push to make fresh inroads into the regions and territories considered beyond its influence in a bid to form their first ever government in New Zealand. In 2014, more people had voted for Green than ever before and the Party is hopeful that it has a real chance to be in the government in 2017. Towards this goal, it seems, the Party is coming up with innovative strategies and measures, and connecting with After the recent announcement of provisional list of candidates, which had many young and popular faces, the party has announced a KiwiIndian Barrister and Solicitor Raj Pardeep Singh as their candidate in Manukau East. Mr Singh is the founder and principal of Legal Associates, a law firm based in South Auckland. Indian Weekender spoke with Mr Singh on his candidacy with the Green party and the value that he can offer to the Kiwi-Indian voters in the 2017 general elections. IWK: Why did you choose Green Party over other main stream parties like the National and Labour Party?

Mr Singh: I find myself personally aligned with Green Party’s beliefs and values, especially in ecological wisdom, transparent governance, and centrality of Treaty of Waitangi

IWK: Is there any one particular policy that you want to talk more than anything else to the Kiwi-Indian community?

in their deliberations, and nonviolence. Ecological wisdom to me means that man is more important than the machine, which should be our key emphasis. Similarly, as a new migrant in this country, I find myself looking towards the Treaty of Waitangi as a basis for everyone getting equal and fair treatment in New Zealand.

Mr Singh: Yes, certainly, with us Kiwi-Indians being the new migrants in this beautiful country, I will like to talk to them about Green Party’s migration policy. It is one policy that is dear to my heart. As a Green party member, I am putting my personal bill for three key policy areas – “visa for life,” “home for life,” and “water for life.” As migrants and residents in this country, we all need a visa, home, and fresh water for life, regardless of our situation.

“

Mr Raj Pardeep Singh is the founder and principal of Legal Associates, a law firm based in South Auckland.

IWK: Do you think that the current National government or the Labour’s previously have not done enough on migration?

Mr Singh: Once Green Party makes a government with the Labour Party as per the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), we will work together on migration and let’s see what we can do more for the migrating families, their parents and their children.

IWK: Is there any particular Green policy which attracts you the most?

Mr Singh: Yes, transparent governance. I feel that there had not been much transparency in many previous governments, especially the National Party led governments. IWK: How are you going to convince the Kiwi-Indian voters for the Green party, as

apparently Indian voters do not know much about the Green Party?

IWK: How do you see adding value to the lives of Kiwi Indian community all over in NZ as a Green Party candidate?

Mr Singh: Well, I believe that we should not be unnecessarily judging the intelligence of our Kiwi-Indian voters. I am confident that when we speak to them about the Green party’s values and policies, then

Mr Singh: This is the first time that our Kiwi-Indian voters will have a choice to vote for a comember from the community in

the Green Party if that is what they want to vote for. As a Green Party member and candidate, I will be going to people to explain what Green Party has to offer them.

IWK: Are you included in the recent provisional list released by the Green Party for the parliament?

Mr Singh: No, I am not on the list as I choose to be an electorate candidate only, as I need to first prove myself to the Indian community and the Green Party. I will be talking to Green Party leadership that we need to understand what Indian migrants and other new migrant communities are seeking from the Green Party. We need to work in ways that bolster the imagery that Green Party is receptive and inclusive for all the communities in New Zealand. IWK: Do you think Green Party has put you in a winnable position in this election?

Mr Singh: Winnable position! Well that a good question. Of course, it’s not a winnable position because South Auckland is the weakest area for Green Party. We are around four per cent vote here in South Auckland, which includes Mangere, Manukau East, and Manurewa. Our main in this election is to increase party votes in South Auckland and make the party stronger.

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Typhoid scare grips Auckland ¡¡ IWK BUREAU

uckland is currently in the grip of a Typhoid related mini-endemic where one person had already died, and 18 people are reported to be suffering from the illness. The illness is believed to be brought back from Pacific after an overseas visit. The Mt Roskill Samoan Assembly of God Church is at the centre of this outbreak of typhoid and all those suffering from the illness are members of this church. The news of typhoid scare was broken in a media statement released by Auckland Regional Public Health Service (ARPHS) on Friday, March 31, almost three days after the death of the woman. It was then reported that ten people had been hospitalised after a typhoid outbreak in Auckland and the

numbers have since risen to 16 along with a death of a woman. The woman, from Mt Roskill, died in hospital on Tuesday, March 28, in Auckland Hospital. Auckland Regional Public Health Service Clinical Director Dr Julia Peters had said that the person was hospitalised with some serious health issues and the typhoid infection was another complicating factor. Other confirmed cases linked to the outbreak are being treated in hospital. They are all members of the church but lived in locations across central and south Auckland. Auckland Regional Public Health Service and the Ministry of Health had come under severe criticism about the handling of this mini-endemic.

Auckland pounded by bad weather

he former tropical cyclone Debbie has moved south towards Central North Island and the South Island after causing havoc in Auckland earlier this week. The overnight deluge has left many parts of the region saturated with widespread road closures, houses threatening to topple into the sea and massive landslides. Auckland Civil Defence had been on alert and monitoring the situation throughout the week. Auckland Council’s building inspectors had been sent out across the region on the morning of Wednesday, April 5, assessing damage and risk to properties. In particular, structural engineers have focused on areas in Kohimarama Road and Sharon Road, Browns Bay. The remnants of the cyclone have now moved on towards the south.

Photo courtesy: stuff.co.nz

Central New Zealand is on high alert with forecasters predicting some areas will get three times April’s normal rainfall in just 48 hours.

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¡¡ SWATI SHARMA

ar away from their homeland, it is the festivals that bring the Indians together and connect them with their culture and traditions. It wasn’t long before when we welcomed the new year, and now it is already April. It is the time to celebrate one of the most famous festivals of North Indian and, more specifically, Punjab—Vaisakhi, also called Baisakhi. This festival rejuvenates the desi communities, bringing to life a scene from the real Punjab, the old Punjab. For many years, Vaisakhi has been the time when farmers get ready to celebrate a new year after putting their sickles to the harvest. With upgrading technology every day, the sickles have now been replaced by the modern automated machinery while the farmers are replaced by the outsourced migrant workers. The celebrations have also seen a downfall in the cities and town, but it is celebrated with the same vigour and fanfare in the villages. Vaisakhi has a great significance for the Sikhs. This was the day when the Sikh religion was founded by the tenth guru of Sikhs—Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. It is a vital part of the social and religious customs of Punjabis settled in various regions of the

world. With the community in different countries celebrating the festival in their own way, the celebrations have evolved over the years becoming more modernised. In the United States, there are parades through the streets followed by the religious gatherings at the gurudwaras. New York, New Jersey, Chicago, San Jose, Las Vegas—large number of cities throughout America host the Punjabi mela to mark the festival. Canada is one of the countries with the largest Punjabi population. The local Sikh and Punjabi communities in cities such as Vancouver, Surrey, Brampton and Montreal hold the annual Vaisakhi celebrations in mid-April. The city parades, gurudwara ceremonies, cultural shows, and dance and sports competition give a healthy

“

Vaisakhi has a great significance for the Sikhs. This was the day when the Sikh religion was founded by the tenth guru of Sikhs—Guru Gobind Singh in 1699.

dose of desi masala, tradition and culture. Similarly, in other parts of the world the festival is marked by religious events in gurudwaras. The entertainment side of the festival mostly takes place during

one of the weekends of April as it allows people working on weekdays to join the celebration.

Vaisakhi in New Zealand

he Punjabi diaspora in New Zealand, just like around the world, also celebrates the festival with much fervour. As the festival has both religious and cultural connection to it, people celebrate it in different ways to lift up their spirits. Recognising the contribution of the Punjabi community in New Zealand, the Parliament celebrated the festival in the parliament building in 2016 for the first time ever. This was seen as a huge acknowledgement of the work that community does for the country. This year too, the festival will be celebrated in the Beehive on

Wednesday, April 19, which will include cultural performance displaying not only the traditions from northern states of India but also from across the country. This harvest festival is celebrated with various names in different states of India and this year’s celebration at the parliament will showcase these various cultures. Apart from the celebrations in the Parliament, various gurudwaras across New Zealand will hold religious events on the weekends of April 8-9 and 15-16. Gurudwara Sri Kalgidhar Sahib in Otahuhu will lead their 22nd nagar kirtan or street procession on Saturday, April 8, starting from the gurudwara till Otahuhu Shopping Centre. The parade will begin at 12:30 p.m. and will reach back to gurudwara by 3 p.m. On Sunday, April 9, the Otahuhu gurudwara will host a samagam, paath and kirtan by renowned paathi Singh Sahib Maan Singh and kirtani jathaa from Golden Temple, Amritsar and Bhai Harnaam Singh Srinagar Waale. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to noon. A similar function will be held at the gurudwara in Takanini on April 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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Auckland celebrates diversity in International Cultural Festival ¡¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

ucklanders celebrated diversity in style at the 18th edition of the Auckland International Cultural Festival 2017 held on Sunday, April 2 at Mt Roskill War Memorial Park in Mt Roskill. The cultural extravaganza brought together people from about 50 nationalities living in Auckland from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The organisers of the event estimate that more than 10,000 people visited the festival. The fun-filled annual event organised by Auckland Council celebrated the diversity of the city through food, music, dance performances, arts and sports. The venue hosted more than 100 stalls that included food delicacies from different nations, clothing, cultural artefacts, and sports events. The children enjoyed the bouncing castles, face painting, joy rides at the venue while the others delved into band performances and danced to the tunes of different ethnic music. The performers represented Turkey, Thailand, Ethiopia, France, Germany, Hawaii, Italy, Pacific Islands, Egypt, Libya, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, Ghana, Rwanda, Iran, Syria, India, Pakistan, Serbia, Mongolia, etc. The Anujay School of Dance, Mt Roskill’s Bollywood Dance Group, Tamil NZ School of Dance, and the University of

Auckland Indian Society were some of the many Indian groups showcasing the diverse, rich culture of India. Two performance stages were set, one for the bands to perform live music and the other for the dancers. The other performances during the day included Romanian Folk Dance, Dalmatian Folk Society, Nepal, Taiwanese, Fijian, Arab, Egyptian, Moroccan dance groups and the Arabian Belly dancers. Mixit- a popular dance group from Auckland, comprising of performers from Zimbabwe, Armenia, Afghanistan, Palestine, Sudan, Sri Lanka and New Zealand received a thunder of applause for their performance. A group of African men played bongo at their stall while the crowd formed a circle and danced to their tunes. “This is what Auckland International Cultural Festival is all about, it’s a melting pot of different cultures,” Ella Kumar, MC at the event and Puketapapa Local Board Member said. The visitors attended various workshops, browsed the arts and craft stalls, or worked up an appetite playing some traditional Māori or Highland games. People gathered to learn Maori Kite making, explored Mama’s Hangi, Palestine made artefacts, Chinese Sugar Art, Malaysian Carriage, Pearl of Islands- Art and Crafts, etc.

NEW ZEALAND

More support to keep our ethnic communities safer Bill English

Prime Minister

e’re here to make a difference in the areas that really matter to Kiwis. That’s why we have been working hard to put in place a comprehensive plan aimed at preventing and reducing the impact of crime to help build a safer New Zealand. Last week, Police Minister Paula Bennett and a number of other National MPs joined Police and Victim Support staff and volunteers to officially launch a range of new Victim Support brochures for ethnic communities. These will make Victim Support’s services more accessible to victims of crime who have limited English. This new material is available in Hindi, Korean, Japanese, Tongan, Samoan and simplified Chinese, and will be available at Police stations and Victim Support offices around New Zealand. These new brochures have important information about Victim Support’s services that can help people affected by crime, trauma and suicide. It guides them on how to participate fairly and fully in the justice system and get through the tough times in life. It is great to see that more of our ethnic communities will now have better access to the support they need and that language will no longer be a barrier to receiving

these services. They are, after all, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and free of charge. Making services like Victim Support more accessible is just the first step in keeping our communities safer. We are also reforming a number of laws and investing in Police in a wider effort to make our ethnic communities feel safe. Justice Minister Amy Adams recently introduced The Family and Whānau Violence Legislation Bill to Parliament in order to overhaul the Domestic Violence Act and amend 39 other pieces of legislation, regulations, and Orders in Council. This new legislation helps build a new way of dealing with this issue and will go a long way to reducing New Zealand’s rate of family violence. Early this year, Police Minister Paula Bennett and I also announced a new $503 million Safer Communities package to reduce crime, prevent reoffending and make our communities safer. It will see increase total police staff numbers by 1125 and include another 880 sworn officers. This investment also includes 20 new Police ethnic liaison officers. These officers will provide Police with additional resources to help Indian, Korean, and other ethnic communities go about their lives and business safely and with confidence. This National-led Government’s drive to reduce crime and create safer communities is central to our plan to build a brighter future for all New Zealanders. You and your family deserve to be safe at home, at work and in your communities.

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National is boosting Police staff numbers by 1125, including 880 sworn officers, through our $503 million Safer Communities package. We are ensuring Police attend at least 98 per cent of all home burglaries within 48 hours. The package also provides $7.5 million for 20 ethnic liaison officers who will work with Indian and other ethnic communities and businesses to stop crime in these communities. RT HON BILL ENGLISH PRIME MINISTER

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SOUTH LINE Earthquake-affected red zone to get a makeover News-in-brief from South Island

2074th Hindu New Year coming up

¡¡ GAURAV SHARMA

hristchurch’s rebuild after the 2011 earthquake got a major breakthrough last week with Regenerate Christchurch (RC) announcing Gerry Brownlee’s – minister supporting Greater Christchurch Regeneration – approval for the company’s approach for developing a Regeneration Plan for the Ōtākaro Avon River Corridor. RC is a new entity, established in 2016 to lead the regeneration of Christchurch including the central city, residential red zone and the eastern New Brighton. Known as the Outline for the Ōtākaro/ Avon River Corridor Regeneration Plan, it will determine the preferred land uses and activities for the area, including who will be paying for it. “The Canterbury community now has a clear picture of how the regeneration of the Ōtākaro/ Avon River Corridor will take shape. Having considered the feedback we have received, we are confident that we have developed an approach that will make the most of this great opportunity,” noted RC chairman Mr André Lovatt. Notably, the Canterbury earthquakes of 2010 and 2011 caused unprecedented and widespread damage to the Avon River corridor, an area covering

Children performing at a Canterbury Nepalese Society event in 2016

T A good crowd gathered during the recent Otakaro Avon River Community Day at Haeata Community Campus to share thoughts on how this area could shape an exciting future for Christchurch

over 600 hectares, which was later identified as residential red zone land. Since then much of the land within this area has been acquired and cleared by the Crown, with deliberations ongoing on what to do with it. RC has been also organising community and open days to get the community participation in sharing ideas on the regeneration plan. “More than 80 proposals have already been put forward by various proponents and they’re all on the table, plus ideas from more than 1000 children as well as many more from our recent Community Day. But we are still in the early stages of planning and open to all ideas

as this regeneration opportunity takes shape,” added RC’s Chief Executive Mr Ivan Iafeta. RC also shared details of a recent survey of Christchurch residents about the future of the river corridor. 79 per cent emphasised on safety in regenerated areas, 75 per cent on protection of unique and indigenous nature, 66 per cent on well-designed urban environment, 64 per cent on a good transport system, 54 per cent on community connection, 47 per cent on good places to work, visit and invest, 45 per cent on valuing culture and heritage, and only 39 per cent on range and choice of housing.

he 300-member Canterbury Nepalese Society (CNS), which was established in 2015, is gearing up to celebrate the Hindu New Year 2074 in Christchurch on April 14. Mr Bishnu Pokhrel, President CNS noted, “By organizing this event we aim to showcase our Nepalese culture to the wider community. That day, we will have a Nepalese fashion show flaunting traditional Nepalese dresses, followed by traditional Nepalese dances and other cultural performances, and of course, not to mention mouth-watering Nepalese cuisine.” Also, one day earlier, on April 13, the Nepal New Zealand Friendship Society of Canterbury (NNZFC) is organising the NNZFC Nepali New Year 2074 at Linfield Cultural Recreational Sports Club. “This year’s celebrations are special as it marks few milestones in NNZFC’s journey. Ten years of our weekly radio program ‘Namaste Nepal’, ten years since we published

our first annual magazine ‘Namaste Nepal’, and ten years of our Nepali language classes. We will be releasing the annual ‘Namaste Magazine’ followed by cultural performances,” informed Mr Saurab Gautam, Joint Secretary of NNZFSC. In Nepal, much like in North India, the traditional lunar Hindu calendar is followed, with this year been the Hindu New Year 2074 or Vikram Nav Varsh Samvant 2074. This so because it is believed that Vikram Era was started by King Vikramaditya in 57 BC as a commemoration of his victory over the Shaks. That’s how the Hindu calendar came to be known as Vikram Samvant after Vikramaditya. According to the Hindu calendar, the New Year is the first day after no moon in the month of Chaitra, which this year began on March 29.

Telugu Association celebrates Ugadi and Ram Navmi ¡¡ GAURAV SHARMA

asiNZ, or the Telugu Association of South Island New Zealand, an informal group in existence since 2006, celebrated Ugadi, the Telugu New Year, and Ram Navmi, in Christchurch last Saturday. Ugadi or Yugadi, as it is called in the Deccan region of India, marks the commencement of the Hindu

New Year by recognising a change in the lunar orbit. It also signals the advent of Spring. The first day of bright half of the lunar month Chaitra is considered to be the day for Ugadi celebration, which generally falls in the months of March/ April of the English calendar. Mr Diwakar Kandula, a researcher at the Lincoln University, and

one of the founding members of TasiNZ, informed, “We had 80 people attending the festivities, which included prayers, dance and Telugu song performances. The evening ended with dinner. This year, we also appreciated the achievements of our children in academics, sports, and extracurricular activities, by distributing certificates of excellence.

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Telugu Association's new year celebrations in Christchurch. Picture courtesy TasiNZ

www.iwk.co.nz | 7 April 2017

Canterbury Police expresses concern over aggravated robberies

hristchurch Police has expressed concern about the increased number of recent aggravated robberies across the city, many affecting Indian businesses. “These are a priority for our staff and a dedicated team of 20, including a team of detectives, has been formed, with specialists now working across shifts to take positive action and solve these offences. “We understand how distressing these events can be for the victims involved, and have offered them ongoing support and advice as we work through our investigations,” said Detective Inspector Darryl Sweeney, Field Crime Manager, Canterbury Police. “A team will continue to provide prevention advice to businesses, and if any business would like a visit from the police, please contact us on (03) 363 7400. “You can also contact the same number if you know of someone involved in recent offending, or alternatively phone Crimestoppers – anonymously if necessary – on 0800 555 111. “We also encourage anyone who witnesses any concerning or suspicious behaviour to contact 111 straight away, with as much detail as possible.” Notably, one of the most oft-repeated victim of aggravated robberies is a dairy on Ferry Road, Woolston, Christchurch, which was subjected to nine robberies, between August 20, 2016, and March 8, 2017. “Eight out of these nine robberies have resulted in 15 arrests, which is a fantastic result and the remaining robbery continues to be an active investigation. “In addition, we continue to work with retailers to support them both in the event of a crime taking place, as well as in a prevention role. We have dedicated staff who work within the communities to help offer advice and prevention strategies,” said Acting Inspector Paul Reeves, Area Prevention Manager for Canterbury.

“

Canterbury District Commander Superintendent John Price addressing concerns of Indian community about aggravated robberies late last year

We understand how distressing these events can be for the victims involved, and have offered them ongoing support and advice as we work through our investigations

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Women’s freedom shouldn’t be labelled as vulgarity: Babbu Maan I ¡¡ SWATI SHARMA

t was probably the biggest Punjabi show you would have ever seen in Auckland. A fully packed auditorium with many standing to watch their favourite singer superstar who returned to Auckland after six years. Singer-songwriter Babbu Maan enthralled the audience at Auckland’s Logan Campbell Centre on Saturday, April 1. But apart from the show being a soldout one, there was something different and special about it. Known for this honest and frank opinions and up-front attitude Tejinder Singh Maan aka Babbu Maan and lovingly also known as Khant wala Maan (after his village Khant), had some important messages for the young generation and the NRIs. Not only his songs reflect his perspective of life, but also his opinion about the changing world forces one to re-visit their thoughts. Maan was praised for his knowledge of literature and the way he incorporates his knowledge in his songs and script writing for his movies. About the kind of songs that Punjabi music industry is producing these days, he said that change is the demand of the time. “I think all the songs are good. It is all about your perspective. Every

artist has a particular taste of songs or writing or genre, and they are good at what they do,” he said. Not impressed by the music compositions in Punjabi industry, he said that the industry needs to start experimenting and do something new. “We have been listening to the same tunes for years. When I started, there was no concept of music composition. Now it’s high time that people start producing good and new music. That’s the only way to grow and stay there for a long time.” Talking about his up-front attitude, he said that he doesn’t like to be two-faced. “I have learnt this from my parents. Either you are a friend, or you aren’t, there should be no hanging in-between. And we all need to get away from this kind of two-faced attitude.” His views about the obscenity in Punjabi songs would have won every feminist’s respect. Unlike other Punjabi singers from his time and with literary knowledge, Maan seemed quite open-minded about the way women should lead their lives and said that he believes that they should not be judged on the basis on what she wears. “Why should men decide what a woman should wear. It is a woman who should determine that.

Babbu Maan performed live in Auckland on April 1

“

NRIs are making India and Punjab proud with the success they have achieved. But they shouldn’t let others misuse their goodwill. Women’s freedom shouldn’t be labelled as vulgarity. Till the time we men control women’s freedom or what they should wear, every song would look vulgar.

“We have changed ourselves almost entirely if we look back at 50-60 years from now. And we also need to change with the changing time.” When asked about what would be his message or advice for the NRIs, he said that they are making India and Punjab proud with the success they have achieved. But they shouldn’t let others misuse their goodwill. “If you are sending a donation in India for a good cause, you should ask for the accounts of where it has been used. Don’t let your hardearned money go down the drain,” he said. Babbu Maan performed live for a gathering of more than 2600. His performance was a mix of poetry, romantic numbers and upbeat songs. It was almost impossible to make the crowd sit on their seats, who was cheering throughout the show.

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Backing the Kiwi Dream In Maungakiekie

Maungakiekie includes the suburbs of Point England, Tamaki, Panmure and Mt Wellington to the East; and Onehunga, Te Papapa, Oranga, Penrose, Ellerslie and One Tree Hill to the West. Please get in touch with me if you would like to chat about any issues, or if there is anything I can help you with. Email priyanca@labour.org.nz fb.com/PriyancaNZLabour twitter.com/Priyanca02

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He said that it was his best show ever from around the world and he would very much like to return soon for an even bigger show. Also known as the king of romance in Punjabi music industry, Maan rose to fame in 2001 with his hit music album Saun di Jhadi, featuring several hits such as Chann Chaanani, Raat Guzaar layi and Dil ta paagal hai among others. So far he has released eight studio albums and six compilation albums. He has also acted in, written screenplays for and produced Punjabi films, and has sung for a few popular Bollywood songs as well. He was highly appreciated in Punjabi movie Hashar—A Love Story that released in 2008. Maan suggested that he would soon return with another film and looks forward to bring songs in English, Hindi, and Punjabi.

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www.iwk.co.nz | 7 April 2017

Indian High Commission urges students to take advantage of MADAD– an initiative to support students ¡¡ SANDEEP SINGH

ndian High Commission is reminding international students from India to take advantage of Government of India’s initiative called MADAD, which was launched only last year in July 2016 with the single objective of providing support to the Indian students while being away from their family and country. Taking a note of the recent increase in the number of Indian students who are regularly finding themselves in trouble of one kind or the other here in New Zealand, the High Commission is urging more and more students to register themselves with this initiative so as to be able to be in a position to deliver time-sensitive services as and when required. The decision to study overseas, in a distant location, away from one’s family and the comfort of one’s culture can often entail lots of challenges for the young international students in an alien land. These challenges are further magnified when students find themselves in the clutches of rogue employers or duped by immigration agents back home who falsifying their documents submitted to Immigration New Zealand, which can often result in abrupt deportation.

Most of these students, leave India—a large number of them from rural villages, leave their families and home country— with stars in their eyes, in search of their dreams. But alas, the reality is nowhere near what they expect. One can only imagine the plight of students who already feel under immense pressures from their families, who perhaps mortgage their homes and lands to meet the expenses of their children studying abroad, and are then served with a deportation notice. Often, all such situations leave students clueless regarding whom to contact or ask for help. The Government of India had last year sought to ameliorate such situations for Indian students when away overseas by adding a specific student module to its Consular Grievances Monitoring System (MADAD). The home page link of the MADAD portal (https://portal1.

madad.gov.in/A ppConsular/ welcomeLink) now provides basic guidance on how students can first register themselves on this module and then proceed to provide basic information. This information will help the concerned Indian Embassy/High Commission to engage effectively with the students and render them all possible assistance. The data entered in this module can be accessed and used exclusively only by Indian Missions and Ministry of External Affairs. The High Commission of India in New Zealand is encouraging all Indian students in New Zealand to register them and provide basic information about them through this platform. This will then allow the High Commission to support these students when required. Speaking about this new initiative then, the High Commissioner, Mr Sanjiv Kohli had said, “The advisory is to convey new initiatives that we are taking to enable us to maintain an updated database and

to facilitate direct interface with our students here so that in times of need, both sides can reach the other quickly. They can share their experiences and concerns with us. We want to ensure that we do everything possible to promote their well-being. This would also help us to take up their concerns with respective institutions and government agencies. This is going

to be a continuing process and can develop further only through an interactive manner.” It is hoped that this new initiative is supported by our student community and they work with the High Commission of India to ensure that the students are better supported and have better outcomes to the various issues that they are faced with.

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Manukau Indian Association rebrands itself Ugadi celebrated with great pomp and show in Auckland as Indian Association of New Zealand ¡¡ IWK BUREAU

¡¡ IWK BUREAU

he Manukau Indian Association (MIA) has rebranded itself as the Indian Association of New Zealand (IANZ), a unanimous vote took the decision at the association’s annual general meeting held on Sunday, April 2. Suresh Ramji was elected as the new president of this rebranded entity replacing Veer Khar who was president for the last three years. “The new name reflects the fast-changing profile of the Indian diaspora and better represents the association’s influence in the community and the direction in which we are moving,” Mr Ramji, the newly elected president said. The story of Manukau Indian Association began in 1979 with a few Gujarati and Punjabi Indian families living in South Auckland teaching their children their mother tongue. Following this desire, classes were started in hired rooms at the Papatoetoe Central Primary school, on weekends. The parent would drop off their children and wait outside while they attended classes. The main aim of the association was to hold language classes, celebrate festivals, preserve and promote Indian culture and pass our heritage on to the new generation. In 1980 the society raised funds and purchased a property at 25 Tui Road, Papatoetoe, to serve as their headquarters. Manukau which was relatively unknown in the early 1980s had transformed into a thriving suburb. In 1997, the society adopted a new identity as the Manukau Indian Association with

New team of the newly formed IANZ

an ambition of becoming an inclusive, diverse and modern association. According to Roy Kaunds, the communication director of this newly revamped body, the world has changed manifold in the last 20 years thus necessitating another change to remain relevant in contemporary times. “In this global, multi-media, digital age the name Manukau Indian Association sounds like a private suburban club catering to the small local community,” Mr Kaunds said. “It restricts our scope of activities and does not accurately reflect what we do. Today we have Indians from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from Fiji to South Africa, as our members. We also do a lot of work with the wider community and engage with people across New Zealand,” Mr Kaunds further asserted. “The current lot of Indians who moved to NZ after 2000, and our Millennials, are a different demographic. They have different aspirations, backgrounds, tastes and needs, and the association has to evolve to meet these needs. While we are changing, our name also needed to reflect this change,” Veer Khar said. IANZ vice-president Ram Lingam, who holds an MBA in marketing and branding, adds, “When an organisation expands and starts moving in a new direction the first thing that you need to change is the brand identity,” “Today, in an interconnected world, we should look at an expanding and inclusive identity,” Mr Lingam said.

ew Zealand Telugu Association (NZTA) welcomed the Telugu New Year with a religious fervour for ‘Ugadi’ festival on Sunday, March 26 at Dorothy Winston Centre in Auckland. NZTA called for the celebrations in high spirits that included breathtaking traditional performances showcasing the culture, customs and integral features of the Telugu people, followed by authentic Andhra delicacies. Ugadi, a New Year celebration for Telugu people, in literal terms is translated as Yug (new) and adi (the beginning). Each year of Ugadi has a specific name in Panchangam (Hindu calendar) based on the astrological influences and the name of the year represents the characters of the time. The year 2017-18 in Telugu calendar is called as Hevalambhi Nama Samvastaram. The people of Karnataka also rejoice the festival as Ugadhi while in Maharashtra it is celebrated as Gudi Padwa. The celebrations at Dorothy Winston started with Jyothi Prajwalana and Vandematram, followed by Panchanga Sravanam, a recital of astrological predictions (mundane and personal) by a Brahmin priest. According to the Vedas, listening to ‘Panchanga Sravanam’ helps people to convert concealed good deeds in the heart to the implementation stage and

passes on the virtues to the family and the future generations. One of the reasons for NZTA’s grand Ugadi celebrations was to emphasise on the significance of the festival and the need for educating the younger generation of the cultural celebrations of the Telugu community in New Zealand. A special dish called ‘Ugadhi Pachadi’ was served on this occasion for the attendees. This dish is usually made using selected seasonal ingredients including raw mango, neem, jaggery, tamarind, chilly and salt representing various flavours of life such as bitterness, surprise, fear, sorrow, anger and happiness. The significance of this particular food is that it reminds oneself of their life and the variety of excitements that come along motivating them to stay composed during all the phases of emotions.

Mayor Phil Goff seeks government support for Auckland’s development ¡¡ IWK BUREAU

uckland Mayor Phil Goff has sought the central government support for Auckland’s development needs. “As Auckland is New Zealand’s only worlds-class city, the central government also needs to pitch into the cost of the development,” Mr Goff said. Mr Goff was speaking at an event organised by the Mayor Phil Goff with Sameer Handa and India New Zealand Business Auckland Wenceslaus Anthony at the INZBC event Council on Wednesday, March 29, 2017, at Auckland Institute of Studies. During the During the meet, Mr Goff shared his vision meet, Mr Goff on the development of the city and gave his thoughts on FTA with India. shared his vision on the The Mayor informed the members about development of the city the ongoing development of Auckland and talked about the improvement of public and gave his thoughts on transport, especially from Airport to CBD. FTA with India. “To keep this city world-class and pollutions free, we need to take steps for making public transport more feasible and extensive,” Mr Goff further added. “India and New Zealand has a lot in The Mayor also touched upon the common; still we haven’t achieved that education sector saying that the focus should potential with the trade. be on the quality of students and not on the Asia has the most dynamic economy in quantity. Mr Goff was signalling towards the world and India has the second highest the recent issue of student-deportation population with the fastest growing economy. touching the broader Indian community in However a good quality FTA can take New Zealand. some time,” Mr Goff said. Mr Goff spoke eloquently about the At the end of the event, the Mayor had an importance of bilateral trade in promoting bilateral relations between India and opportunity to meet and speak with members New Zealand. of INZBC representing various industries.

“

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 7 April 2017

Syro Malabar Food Festival in Auckland

Children and young people’s safety and wellbeing comes first in new ministry Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi

National List MP

¡¡ RIZWAN MOHAMMAD

he Syro Malabar Catholic Mission of Auckland (SMC) has organised a day of food and fun at the Malaeola Samoan Convention Centre in Mangere on Saturday, April 22. The Annual festival is expected to be attended by more than 5000 people that commence from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. The Auckland Syro Malabar Catholic Mission Inc. started as a community in 2006 with 40 families, which have now grown now close to 300 families and individual members; mainly, from the southern part of Kerala, India. ‘Fun and Food Extravaganza’ is the second food fest organised by the SMC after the huge success of the event in its inaugural year in 2016. Last year the event attracted approximately 4000 people from different parts of Auckland. People from various communities including Kiwi, Pacific and South East Asia visit the food extravaganza. This year’s food fest will include cuisine treats from various parts of India, Philippines,

Samoa, New Zealand and much more. This festival is an opportunity for the food lovers to give try new cuisines from India and different countries. Besides food, an entertainment programme is also planned for the day to keep the visitors glued to the venue. Musical and dance performances will be given by different ethnic groups to highlight the multicultural society of Auckland. There will also be activities for the children such as quiz contests, fun rides, bouncy castles, etc. The purpose of this event is not just to serve different cuisines to the food enthusiasts but also to raise funds and use it towards the betterment of the community. The funds generated through sales, sponsorships and donations at the food fest will be used to build a centre for the children and the youth of the community. “Last year we had people came from Whangarei, Auckland, Hamilton and Rotorua and this year the arrangements have been made to cater more than 5,000 people at the event,” Joby Cyriac, project convener of Fun and Food Extravaganza 2017 said.

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t’s important our vulnerable children and young people have a safe, stable and loving home so they can go on to lead successful lives. The new Ministry for Vulnerable Children, Oranga Tamariki, was launched this afternoon by Prime Minister Bill English and Minister for Children Anne Tolley. It will work with families and whānau to ensure children and young people have access to the care and support they need. It will do this by putting children and young people’s safety and wellbeing first, and ensuring they have a say in the decisions that affect them. As the Prime Minister acknowledged in his opening address, young people themselves can be the best ones to ask about what works – and what doesn’t. The launch of the new Ministry is another milestone on a journey this government began six years ago to better understand the lives of our more vulnerable people – and what they need to change their lives for the better. It represents a major transformation programme to build a more child-centred

care and protection system which focuses on harm and trauma prevention and early intervention. It recognises that crisis management is not the answer. It represents real change – and courage on the part of those who recognise change is needed. The Ministry itself will be just one part of the equation. The other lies with our communities. We need to help people build their own ability to be caring and nurturing. So partnerships matter. But rather than spending time trying to find the perfect partnership model we want to get out there and do it. Iwi, Pacific peoples and NGOs need to be in their own communities using their own models, practices and experiences to change the conditions and circumstances that lead to disconnected and dysfunctional whānau. We do not want to repeat the failings of the past. That’s why we will focus on providing children and young people with safe and secure environments along with a sense of belonging. And it’s why we will support whānau, Iwi, Aiga and families to help them provide nurturing, safe and loving environments so that the future for our vulnerable children will be brighter.

FIJI

7 April 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

‘Religious festivals give us spiritual strength’ L ord Rama symbolises courage, commitment and good virtues, says Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts, Mahendra Reddy. He made these remarks during the Ram Naumi celebrations at Fiji Brahma Kumari’s Rajyog Meditation Centre in Suva last week. He said there were many messages that could be portrayed from Lord Rama’s character. “As a son, we should respectfully and lovingly obey our father’s orders,” Mr Reddy said. “There can be situations in life even when we should consider sacrificing our own comfort for our

We need to be thoughtful about the people in difficulty around us and at times need to make sacrifices in order to assist them. Lord Rama taught us how to respect our gurus, teachers, parents, elders, women and youngsters

A dancer performs the welcome dance for guests at the Ram Naumi gathering at the Fiji Brahma Kumari Raj Yog Meditation Centre

father’s dignity and parents’ wishes. “As a brother, we need to always

remain loyal to our brothers. We should care for them and be ready

2017 Fiji Census begins on September 17

o v e r n m e n t Statistician Epeli Waqavonovono has confirmed that Sunday, September 17 has been fixed as the Census night and the data collection period will last 7 to 10 days.

Waqavonovono says preparatory works started last year with the mapping exercise for the 2017 census and the country will be subdivided into 1,900 Enumeration Areas. He

says

Enumeration

Areas are small geographic units which are demarcated based on a workload criteria. He has also confirmed the 2017 census is funded by the $7.8 million budget allocation with the technical support from the Pacific Community (SPC), the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the World Bank and the United Nations Population Fund. The Population and Housing Census aims to gather information on Age, Sex, Marital Status, Religion,

Family Structure, Education, Disability, Employment and Unemployment, Types of Economic Activities, Toilet Facilities, Water and Electricity supplies. M e a n w h i l e , Waqavonovono says census this year will be different from previous years, for the first time enumerators will use tablet devices to collect and store data.The Population and Housing Census are conducted every 10 years in Fiji.

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to support them at every phase in life. We should be the pillar of strength for them,” he said. “As a husband, we have certain obligations and responsibilities, such as, protection of our wives.

“But there are times when one’s divine path must even take precedence over the path of a householder.” He said Lord Rama sacrificed everything for the people of his kingdom. “We cannot only be always concerned and worried about our own comfort, convenience and own pleasure,” he said. “We need to be thoughtful about the people in difficulty around us and at times need to make sacrifices in order to assist them. “Lord Rama taught us how to respect our gurus, teachers, parents, elders, women and youngsters.”

Fiji eyes qualified doctors from India

he Health and Medical Services Ministry is interested in bringing in qualified doctors from India, says the ministry's permanent secretary Philip Davies. He said Health and Medical Services Minister Rosy Akbar was in India and would meet organisations to foster closer collaboration between the Governments of India and Fiji in areas of work, medical Minister for Health and Medical Services Rosy Akbar and the Permanent Secretary Philip Davies during a briefing supplies and equipment, and co-operation on the delivery of we've got doctors from all over the world who are working in our system now. hospital services. "We do rigorous checks before they practise "We are always open to bringing in wellbut we are not closing our doors on anyone trained health professionals from anywhere in the world who can contribute to our who can contribute." The Government had allocated $8.8m for the recruitment health service. “Obviously we do take careful steps to of doctors from overseas in the 2016-2017 make sure they are appropriately trained and Budget to help bring Fiji's doctor to patient qualified regardless of whether they come ratio to 1:1000 in line with World Health from India, Australia, the US, Sri Lanka – Organization standards.

NZ acting high commissioner presents cheque for FJ$15,000 to Leadership Fiji

ew Zealand Acting High equipped to take Fiji forward as a united Commissioner Amanda Vercoe has dynamic nation. presented a cheque for FJ$15,000 Fong says that it also exposes participants to Leadership Fiji that has boosted the 2017 to leaders from across the society, in a Leadership Fiji Programme. structured manner, providing them with the Vercoe says that New Zealand High opportunity to deepen their understanding Commission values and supports the effort of their country, its history, economic and of Leadership Fiji in the development and social structure. Leadership Fiji has also enhancement of the quality of future Fiji been heavily involved in the development of regional leadership programmes. Around Leaders. She adds that the High Commission has 350 leaders from various back grounds been associated with the Programme since and careers have graduated from the its inception in 2002 and over the years it programme and are part of the vibrant and has enriched and nurtured the skills of many enthusiastic alumni. young leaders. Leadership Fiji Executive Director Sharyne Fong says the Leadership Fiji Programme provides an opportunity for the development of a new generation of Zealand Acting High Commissioner Amanda Vercoe and Leadership Fiji l e a d e r s New Executive Director Sharyne Fong

FIJI

www.iwk.co.nz | 7 April 2017

Police Commissioner to Fijian ‘asylumseekers’ in Australia: Safe to live in Fiji

t is safe to live in Fiji, declares Police Commissioner BrigadierGeneral Sitiveni Qiliho. Brigadier-General Qiliho was responding to a claim by Fijian couple Jiten and Joytika Prasad, who are facing deportation from Australia, that it is not safe for them to return to Fiji. The Commissioner said: “Australians make the biggest number of tourists that visit our shores. “We are a safe country. That is why they visit here, year in and year out.” He said the security environment was conducive to tourists enjoying their holiday in Fiji. “That is why Australian tourists keep coming here,” he said. “We recently released our crime statistics which showed an overall reduction of four per cent in the crime rate in the country last year.” The Prasad family arrived in Sydney in the year 2000 and have two Australian-born children who cannot be deported because they are full citizens, with Australian passports. They have lived for 17 years in Eastlakes, Southern Sydney, with children Jasmita, 15,

Couple in Sydney facing deportation claim it is not safe to return

Jitend Prasad and his wife Joytika arrived in Australia in June 2000 shortly after the military coup in Fiji. They have exhausted every possible legal avenue to stay in the country

Jasneel, 12, attending Randwick Girls’ High and Mascot Public respectively.The Prasads sought asylum status, but were refused. The family claimed that they were caught up in threats and

violence by indigenous Fijians (iTaukei) from a nearby village during the 2000 coup in Fiji and would suffer discrimination and degrading treatment on the grounds of their ethnicity if they returned. Australian Assistant Immigration

Myths from Fiji and India ¡¡ SHALVEEN CHAND

efore men could take to cave drawing and writings, accounts of creation or how to explain nature were passed down to each generation in the form of stories. These collections of stories which are unique to each culture have become myths. While no two myths from two different cultures are the same, there are rare cases where similarities in some way do exist. Our island nation has its own myths and legends but a certain story from India has a very uncanny resemblance to Fiji’s very own story of creation. This is the story of Degei, the snake god of Fiji and the Hindu mythical tale of how Lord Krishna as a child vanquished the poisonous serpent known as Kaliya. The similarities in the two stories are that both mythical creatures talked about are humongous snakes, both the stories have another mythological creature which also happens to be a hawk.

Story of Kaliya Kaliya, in Hindu tradition, was the name of a poisonous snake living in the Yamuna River, in Vrindavan. According to the myth, the water of the Yamuna for four leagues all around Kaliya boiled and bubbled with poison. No bird or beast could go near and only one solitary kadamba tree grew on the river bank.

The proper home of Kaliya was Ramanik Dwip. The meaning of the word dwip is island. Kaliya had been driven away from Ramanik Dwip by fear of Garuda, the foe of all serpents. Garuda in Hindu mythology was a large hawk/eagle-like humanoid creature who fed on snakes. Garuda had been cursed by a sage dwelling at Vrindavan so he could not come to Vrindavan without meeting his death. Therefore Kaliya chose Vrindavan as his residence, knowing it was the only place where Garuda could not come. Once Krishna and his friends were playing ball, and while playing Krishna climbed up the kadamba tree and hung over the river bank, the ball fell into the river and Krishna jumped after it. Kaliya rose up with his hundred and ten hoods vomiting poison and wrapped himself around Krishna’s body. Krishna became so huge that Kaliya had to release him. So Krishna saved himself from every attack and sprang on to Kaliya’s head and assumed the weight of the whole universe, and danced on the serpent’s heads. This was killing Kaliya and his wives prayed to Krishna with joined palms, worshipping Krishna and praying for their husband. Kaliya surrendered to Krishna promising he would not harass anybody. So Krishna pardoned

Minister Alex Hawke declined to exercise his discretionary powers to keep the family together and compliance officials from the Immigration Department have warned the family that deportation action could begin from today.

NZ wary of Fiji threat at Hong Kong

ew Zealand Sevens coach Scott Waldrom says his

team is fully aware of the challenge Fiji pose at this weekend's Hong Kong tournament. Scott Waldrom The two old rivals are in the same pool, alongside Wales and Japan. Waldrom said Wales were a side with speed and a huge work-rate while Japan would gain an insight into the Kiwi camp, having former New Zealand assistant coach and player Damian Karauna at the helm. However, Waldrom said Fiji could well be the team to beat at the tournament. "Fiji has just been on fire the last few years," he said. "They love being in Hong Kong, that's why they are the team that has won the most tournaments in Hong Kong. They get up for it and they love being here," Waldrom said. Fiji go into the tournament lying in third place on the World Series table on 100 points with New Zealand 16 points back in fourth place.

him and then let him leave the river and back to Ramanik Dwip. Some identify it as Fiji. And many Hindus believe that Kaliya still lives in a lake in Nakauvadra.

Story of Degei According to Fijian legend and stories compiled in the book Creation Myths of Fiji by John Black, in the beginning it was only water and twilight everywhere and only an island existed, the island of the Gods which floated somewhere at the edge of the world and could be visible when the sun rose. Degei was alone and the only living creature was the female hawk named Turukawa. Turukawa could not speak and the only thing she would do was to fly around Earth, until she started gathering leaves and grass creating a nest and finally two eggs were created. The god Degei took the two eggs to his house where he made a bed for them and kept them warm with his body. When the eggs hatched, two tiny human beings came out, they were his children. Once the first humans were born, they were transferred to a vesi tree where Degei built a shelter for them, fed them and taught them the secrets of nature. But he kept his children separate. He planted trees around them so they could find food, trees like banana trees, dalo and yams.

However, humans could only eat from the banana tree and not dalo and yams, because they did not know the art of fire. Dalo and yams were the food of the gods. When the first humans grew up they met each other and asked Degei to show them how to harness the power of the fire and how to eat the food of the gods, and so Degei taught them. And it was after a while that the first humans left Degei and went to live on their own and had their first children. Degei wasn’t upset since he knew his children and their children

would worship him as their god. According to the legend, Degei then established the first village in Fiji, Viseisei Village. He himself is said to have gone into the mountain ranges of Nakauvadra where he is said to be living in a cave. Both these stories are from different cultures and different places but have similarities nonetheless. And perhaps more of a reason why the stories of Fiji and its people remain interesting. Myths they may be, but still very much interesting.

Editorial Does NZ Police emergency response system need a revamp?

he latest incident in the community where a liquor store manager was left confused and on his own when an emergency operator had categorically told him that it would take them more than 30 minutes to send any help as they have other priorities is a matter of concern. Although, currently there seems to be something unusually wrong about the entire New Zealand police system and the way question of law and order is being addressed, yet this piece will refrain from venturing into that territory and remain focused on the concern about how the police emergency response system is operating. It has been almost six months for the then Police Minister to accept publically for what was being reported in the media and believed by the members of the public for some time, that crime figures are rising. Nothing concrete has happened so far on the ground to bolster public confidence, which is cracking, if not breaking altogether. Interestingly, even political parties are raising all voices around the question of investments in our police system and new recruitments, as if the lack of investment is the only avenue of improvising police efficiency. The Labour Party and Winston Peter’s New Zealand First party for long had vouched for immediate recruitment of 1000 and 1800 police personals respectively. To which National Party had responded with their promise of recruitment of 1100 personal over a period of next four years and in the process taking away all the sheen from opposition’s main roaring point on law and order situation. In fact, both of them, the government and the opposition repeatedly express satisfaction in the manner in which our police personal work everyday and risk their lives to keep everyone safe. In that regard, opposition is as guilty as the government in failing to hit hard on shortcomings of NZ police. There is nothing wrong in repeated public support for the police, and in fact, this is reiterated here as well that our police personnel do an incredible job in keeping everyone safe. Nevertheless, there is no denying of the fact that sometime inadequacy in the system can undermine best individual efforts. The latest case of a New Market liquor shop where the store manager had apparently locked himself with a prospective robber or even with a thief and had called on the emergency line in the hope that immediate help will arrive soon, the emergency response system failed on him. The help, however, arrived, when the store owner who was outside the shop choose to walk to the nearest police station and get two police personnel come to their rescue. The point is that police personnel worked entirely in a reasonable manner, rising to the occasion and delivering the service in a safe way, whereas the system, on the other hand, had failed to deliver and provide assistance to the person in need. The other point is that not everyone will be lucky next time to have a police station next door and get someone else to walk and get police help for them. It is precisely for such situations when people are caught in a vulnerable situation that the emergency system is designed to provide immediate assistance. It is high time that our political parties get their act together and comes out of hiding behind the ivory towers of “political correctness” on the question of rising robberies and assault and the “less than satisfactory” responses of police and legal system. Experiences overseas have shown that people are increasingly feeling appalled, if not disgusted, by the necessity of “political correctness.” Someone out there, government or the opposition should be willing to play a “hardcop” on the police and ask questions that eventually improvise their service delivery to the members of the public. Indian Weekender : Volume 9 Issue 03 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.

“Don’t worry about failures, worry about the chances you miss when you don’t even try.” – Jack Canfield Auckland Weather forecast for the week April 8 - 14

Sat Sun Mon Tues Wed Thu Fri Turning Cloudy Cloudy with a shower 21° 16°

21° 17°

A stray morning shower

A Morning shower cloudy

Mostly cloudy, showers around

Partly Sunny with a shower

21° 17°

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21° 14°

This week in New Zealand’s history 7 April 1856 First state secondary school opens The first state secondary school in New Zealand, Nelson College, opened in temporary premises in Trafalgar St with a roll of just eight boys. It eventually attracted boys from around the country as well as the local area. It now has a roll of over 1000 and continues to take both boarders and day pupils.

11 April 1869 New Zealand’s first royal visit The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Alfred Ernest Albert, arrived in Wellington as captain of the frigate HMS Galatea. The first member of the British royal family to visit New Zealand, he was greeted with haka, speeches and bunting.

12 April 1913 HMS New Zealand begins tour of nation’s ports The Royal Navy battlecruiser HMS New Zealand arrived in Wellington as part of a 10-week tour during which an estimated 500,000 New Zealanders inspected the vessel. Ten sailors deserted in Auckland, while boats ferried Dunedin sightseers to the ship because it was too large to enter Otago Harbour.

OPINION/EDITORIAL

www.iwk.co.nz | 7 April 2017

Bangladesh PM’s visit: Needed a HasinaModi visit for sub-regional cooperation ¡¡ C UDAY BHASKAR

angladesh is Indias most vital and empathetic neighbor and this is symbolized in the decision by Dhaka to posthumously honour 1,661 Indian soldiers for their contribution and sacrifice in the blood-soaked birth of its nation in December 1971. This rare honour by a visiting leader will be conferred by the Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during her visit to New Delhi from April 8-10. I would make the case that this summit level visit is the most critical for Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a number of reasons that have a historical resonance as Delhi prepares for the 70th anniversary of India’s independence and the bloody partition of the subcontinent in August. The Hasina visit would also be the first summit-level meeting for Modi after the spectacular electoral victory that he single-handedly delivered to the BJP, particularly in India’s most populous state of Uttar Pradesh The high-octane triumph of Hindu majoritarianism was also reflected in the manner that the Chief Minister of UP was chosen and it will be instructive for India’s external interlocutors to monitor how electoral triumphalism will play out in foreign policy. The run-up to the 70th anniversary of August 1947 is embedded in the manner in which India’s two principal neighbors -Pakistan and Bangladesh -- relate to the historical narrative. While Pakistan observes March 23, 1940

as the day of the Lahore resolution that envisioned a nation based exclusively on religion -- in this case the Islamic faith -- the very birth of Bangladesh in 1971 and its trajectory of the last 45 years negates the two-nation theory that led to the partition of August 1947. The Pakistan Army is yet to accept the mea culpa of having killed almost three million of its own citizens during 1970-71 in the most tragic yet forgotten chapters of 20th century history. Bangladesh, under Prime Minister Hasina, has adopted March 25 as Genocide Day and will urge the United Nations to declare this day as World Genocide Day. What is relevant is the profile and orientation of Pakistan and Bangladesh -- the former slipping further into religious bigotry and sectarian violence even as Hasina has steered her relatively young nation towards enviable progress

and tolerance within the extended Islamic world. It may be recalled that even before he assumed office as Prime Minister, Modi had embarked on innovative diplomacy and invited all the regional leaders for his swearing-in ceremony in May 2014. There was considerable optimism that India’s neighborhood policy would be one of amity and tangible cooperation but, barring Bangladesh, there is little that can be held up as a triumph or breakthrough for the Modi-led foreign policy. Dhaka is the exception. An objective review would indicate that while Pakistan remains India’s most visible and intractable security and strategic challenge; and China the more abiding and complex, it is Bangladesh that represents the neighbour with whom India can demonstrate its positive intent and showcase the incentive

for investing in the long term cooperative endeavour. Like most major Muslim nations, Bangladesh (population 164 million) is also grappling with the post 9/11 Islamist fervour and its more virulent WahabbiSalafi variant. India’s worstcase security scenario would be a neighbourhood on its eastern flank that corresponds with the Pakistan-Afghanistan violence and Islamist ideology. Hasina has demonstrated commendable political courage and conviction in her commitment to the secular principle and one may conjecture that she is determined that her nation should not go down the Pakistan path. Yet there are deeply entrenched forces of obscurantism and religious bigotry and the more recent killing of liberals in the name of Islam is illustrative. Hasina is seeking to maximise her nation’s foreign policy options and here, the relationship with China is distinctive -- both for Bangladesh and India. While it is evident that the Sino-Pak relationship is unlikely to alter its core anti-India orientation, the China-Bangladesh relationship should not be allowed to acquire an adversarial or prickly texture vis-à-vis India. This will be the critical challenge for Modi when he receives Hasina. Beijing has already acquired a substantive footprint as a major military supplier in the Indian neighbourhood and Chinese built submarines in the Bangladesh navy is a tactical reality that India will have to factor in. But the deeper

challenge for India is to nurture the Bay of Bengal region into a domain where India and its neighbours can cooperate and if Beijing wishes to be part of this sub-regional effort then Modi should make some bold and innovative investments. The most viable is to resurrect the dormant BIMSTEC initiative that brings together Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Thailand and impart traction into this sub-regional entity. Modi has outlined his vision of SAGAR (security and growth for all in the region) in the past and this came up at the BRICS (Brazil, India, China, Russia, South Africa) Summit in Goa last October where Hasina was a special invitee. 17 The April 8 summit is an opportune moment for India and Bangladesh to bilaterally implement many of the suggestions that are already in the pipeline and identify the low-hanging fruit. My personal wish-list would be to prioritize the connectivity from the Indian east coast (Odisha/ Andhra) through Bangladesh ports to Agartala in the Indian northeast and beyond. The Hasina-Modi vision could also enable Dhaka to outline a common sub-regional blueprint that will maximize the collective advantages that can accrue from investing in the ‘Blue Economy’ -- that related to the ocean.

C Uday Bhaskar is Director, Society for Policy Studies. The views expressed are personal. The article is in special arrangement with South Asia Monitor

Which Donald Trump will Xi Jinping meet at Mar-a-Lago? ¡¡ MAYANK CHHAYA

hinese President Xi Jinping may have a hard time understanding which President Donald Trump he will encounter when the two meet in Mar-a-Lago in Florida on April 6 and 7. Would it be the Trump who has accused China of “raping our country” and being a currency manipulator, or the more transactional and ideology-free businessman with next-to-nothing grasp of complex diplomacy? There are apprehensions that while Xi will come fully prepared to the meeting, as is his wont, Trump will improvise as he goes along. One will bring deep deliberateness to the exchange even as the other will choose to wing it. The highly contrasting styles between the inscrutably modest Xi and the unabashedly vainglorious Trump are expected to inform the first meeting between the two leaders. The US President has already telegraphed via Twitter that he expects the meeting to be “very difficult” because of the “massive trade deficits”. Xi, on the other hand, has refrained from hyper-ventilating in keeping with the traditional style of the Chinese leadership. The choice of Mar-a-Lago, a property owned by Trump, is a careful one aimed at giving a tropical backdrop to a relationship which is at best unpredictable. Trump muddied the waters early on when he chose to speak to Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen in December last year, weeks before being sworn in, much to Beijing’s chagrin. It was for the first time an elected President had

spoken to Taiwan’s leader since 1979. China regards Taiwan as one of its breakaway provinces and Washington has historically respected the one-China policy. In playing down the disquiet over his phone conversation with the Taiwanese leader, Trump had then tweeted: “Interesting how the US sells Taiwan billions of dollars of military equipment but I should not accept a congratulatory call.” The Taiwan matter appears to have been put to rest after, according to The New York Times, Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, in tandem with Chinese Ambassador to Washington Cui Tiankai, arranged a phone call between the two leaders in February. According to the newspaper, during that conversation Trump “pledged to abide by the four-decade-old one-China policy on Taiwan, despite his earlier suggestion that it was up for negotiation”. That, coupled with not following up on his rather ludicrous promise of declaring China a currency manipulator on day one of his administration -- now more than 70 days into it -- is expected to have given Xi some sense of the chasm between what Trump declaims and what he actually might do. There are reports of China’s diplomatic establishment having learned that the best way to reach and influence Trump is via his family. To that end, his son-in-law Kushner has emerged as the conduit. Beijing has also been rather kind to Trump’s business in China by approving several trademark applications of The

Trump Organisation that were pending for quite some time. Kushner came close to selling a prime piece of New York real estate to the politically well-connected Chinese company, Anbang Insurance Group, but shied away amid mounting criticism over conflict of interest. None of this, of course, still means that Trump will not play hardball with Xi for public consumption in order to keep his core base in good humour. There are expectations that recognising the value of not triggering a trade war and creating an appearance of helping the US President, Xi might announce some significant investment in infrastructure projects, which Trump can then relay as a triumph of his tough talk on Twitter. Last year, China invested $45 billion in America in real estate, finance and entertainment. A sizable investment in infrastructure projects with the potential to create construction jobs of the kind that would benefit Trump’s core constituents is an attractive proposition for the Chinese leader. The two will meet amid a polar switch in the way they view the global roles of their respective countries. Xi has emerged as a passionate advocate of unfettered global trade while Trump has been a vocal proponent of protectionism and trade barriers as part of his “America first” and “buy American, hire American” philosophy. Even on the existential crisis of climate change, it is China that has been taking the global leadership position even as Trump

and his cohorts have been busy rubbishing the whole science behind it. No one seriously believes that the meeting will convert Trump back to a globalist and a supporter of climate change policies. In a way, Trump’s policy of retreat from a global engagement suits China eminently as it goes about assertively assuming that mantle. At the same time, Xi will be mindful that Trump’s threat of imposing a 45 per cent tariff on Chinese imports does not become a reality considering that the Chinese economy is experiencing its own often understated albeit serious strains. One particular issue that is expected to consume considerable oxygen is North Korea, particularly in the light of Trump’s ultimatum that the US would go it alone if China did not lean on Pyongyang to end its nuclear programme. In an interview with The Financial Times, he said: “Well, if China is not going to solve North Korea, we will,” but refrained from giving any details on how. This could be part of his characteristic grandstanding before his meeting with Xi. On his part, the Chinese leader may be keen on resolving North Korean President Kim Jong-un’s increasingly belligerent posturing but without destabilising the already embattled neighbour because that will have direct consequences for Beijing. It is one of those meetings where China may opt to play chess even as America goes for checkers.

INDIA

7 April 2017| www.iwk.co.nz

India, Malaysia sign 7 agreements to further enhance bilateral ties

alaysia and India on Saturday signed six Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and an Agreement that paves the way for further economic growth and development between the two countries. India and Malaysia celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year. Visiting Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and his host and counterpart Narendra Modi, witnessed the signing ceremony at Hyderabad House in the capital. It was held in conjunction with Najib’s six day official visit to India. Among the prominent MoUs is the proposed development of a urea and ammonia manufacturing plant in Malaysia and an Offtake of Existing Surplus Urea from Malaysia to India. The project is expected to cost US$2 billion, with a capacity to produce 2.5 million tonnes per annum, and dedicated to supplying the Indian market. MIGHT Technology Nurturing Sdn Bhd also inked a deal with the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board (APEBD) on implementation of the fourth generation Technology Park in the southern state. The park is anticipated to attract private sector investments of US$100 million, as well as spinning

off the involvement of 75 small medium enterprises, and providing 5,500 jobs. Both countries also signed a bilateral air services agreement which would enhance air connectivity. Other MoUs were between the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), New Delhi and the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) on mutual recognition of educational qualifications, to encourage students to study in each other’s country in all India courses. also welcomed Malaysia’s initiative Also signed were to expand the visa-free MoUs between programme to Indian Pembangunan nationals visiting Malaysia Sumber Manusia Bhd and the effective today until March 31, 2018 under the Electronic E n t re p re n e u r s h i p Travel Registration and Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak witness the exchange of Development Institute agreements at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi on April 1, 2017. Information. of India, the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) Malaysia’s initiative and Institute of Chemical to expand the visa-free Technology (ICT) on collaboration programme to Indian nationals in technology development in the visiting Malaysia effective today field of palm oil. until March 31, 2018 under the In a joint statement issued after Electronic Travel Registration and the bilateral meeting between Information (eNTRI). Najib and Modi, both sides also India also expressed satisfaction agreed to explore the possibility at the participation of Malaysian of enhancing cooperation in the companies in road projects in financial sector. the state of Rajasthan. It looked It includes participation in each forward to the conclusion of other’s capital market, as well the significant infrastructure projects grant of commercial banking Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak witness there and in other states by the exchange of agreements at Hyderabad House, in New Delhi. licences. India also welcomed Malaysian companies.

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www.iwk.co.nz | 7 April 2017

PM Modi tells Kashmir youth,

INDIA 19 Skill development only way to create jobs: President

choice is between tourism and terrorism P

bserving that 40 years of violence had done no good but only brought bloodshed to Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, April 2, said the youth of the Valley had to choose between tourism and terrorism to shape their future. Inaugurating the ChenaniNashri tunnel, Modi said the country’s longest tunnel would change the fortunes of the state and its economy and asserted the Centre’s commitment in boosting tourism in the state. “I want to tell the youth of the valley, you have two paths which can decide your fate – On one hand you have tourism and then there is terrorism. “For the past 40 years so many innocent lives have been lost. This has done no good to anybody but has only left the valley bloodied. This bloodshed has not done good to anybody but has only snatched sons from their mothers,” he said. “Had these 40 years been used for developing tourism things would have been different,” he said. He also congratulated the Mehbooba Mufti-led Jammu and Kashmir government for utilising central funds for the development

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the country's longest road tunnel that links Kashmir Valley with Jammu by an all-weather route and reduces the distance by 31 kms. After the inauguration, Modi, along with Vohra and Mehbooba, travelled in an open jeep through the tunnel for some distance.

of the state and assured his the money. Such packages often government’s continued support. remain in paper and take years to materialise. But her “Last year the Centre I government has done a announced a package want to tell commendable job,” of Rs 80,000 crore the youth of the he said. for the state and valley, you have two I congratulate Stressing on the paths which can decide Mehbooba and state’s tourism your fate – On one hand her government potential and you have tourism and for already utilising ability to boost the then there is terrorism country’s per capita more than half of

income, Modi asked the people of the Valley to work shoulder to shoulder with the government to change the fortunes of the state. He termed the Chenani-Nashri tunnel as the valley’s “fate line” and said it will boost the economy of the state and farmers will be able to send their produce to Delhi markets promptly and without concerns of delay.

Dalai Lama in Arunachal: India tells China not to interfere in its matters

ndia-China diplomatic tensions rose afresh over the Dalai Lama’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh, with New Delhi asserting on Tuesday, April 4, that no political motive should be attributed to the visit and asked Beijing not to interfere in its internal affairs. Beijing in a fresh salvo slammed the Dalai Lama as an “anti-China separatist” and attacked New Delhi indirectly for its support to the Tibetan leader. Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, who is from Arunachal Pradesh, said that no political motive should be attributed to Dalai Lama’s trip. “India has always been noninterfering in the neighbours’ internal affairs in our approach,” Rijiju told reporters in New Delhi. “In the same manner, we expect the same from our neighbours,” he said. “When Dalai Lamaji is in Arunachal Pradesh, he will be confined only to religious matters. He is not there to make any political statement and he is not there with any political motive,” he said. Rijiju, who is scheduled to go to Arunachal Pradesh to meet the Dalai Lama, said India has never

questioned China’s sovereignty and “has respectfully adhered to the one-China policy. So we expect that China also should not interfere in our internal matters,” he stated. His comment came as the Ministry of External Affairs said that the Dalai Lama has visited the state six times earlier and no “additional colour” should be given to his visit starting from April 5.

Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama being welcomed on his arrival at Thubchog Gatsel Ling Monastery in Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh

Reacting to the visit, the Chinese Foreign Ministry told Efe news: “The 14th Dalai Lama is an antiChina separatist who has long lived in exile following a failed armed rebellion by the reactionary group of high-ranking feudal serf owners in Tibet in March 1959.”

“The Chinese government is resolutely opposed to any country’s support and facilitation for the 14th Dalai group’s anti-China separatist activities,” read the statement without alluding directly to India.

Dalai Lama meets Indian guard from 1959 flight from Tibet

he Dalai Lama has come face to face with an Indian soldier who guarded him almost 60 years ago as he fled from Tibet to exile in India. The Tibetan spiritual leader, 81, met Naren Chandra Das, 79, as he paid a visit to northeast India. “Looking at your face, I now realise I must be very old too,” he said. He first met the guard in 1959 after a gruelling twoweek trek across the mountains from Lhasa, after a failed Tibetan uprising against Chinese rule. Disguised as a soldier, the Dalai Lama made his way with a small entourage to the border, having received assurances of Indian help.

Mr Das, a retired member of the Assam Rifles, said: “Guards of the Assam Rifles Platoon No 9 had brought the Dalai Lama from Zuthangbo and handed him over to five of us at Shakti [in Arunachal Pradesh, which borders China and Bhutan]. “We brought him to Lungla from where he was escorted on his onward journey to Tawang by another group of guards,” he said. Troops had not been allowed to talk to the Tibetan spiritual leader. “Our duty was only to guard and escort him during his journey,” he said. The Dalai Lama thanked the former soldier, saying he was “very, very happy” to meet part of the team that escorted him to safety inside India. After his

The two men encountered each other in 1959, close to the Tibetan border

escape, he stayed briefly at the Tawang monastery, before settling in Dharamsala, in the north of the country, which is now home to the Tibetan government-in-exile.

resident Pranab Mukherjee stressed the importance of developing skills of youths to deal with unemployment and said training the young workforce was the only way to ensure their employability. Inaugurating an exhibition on skill development here, Mukherjee said unemployment was the basic problem for the country despite having a huge workforce – more than two-thirds of the population falls in the working age group. “Imparting training to the youths and their skill development is the only way to ensure employability,” the President said. Mukherjee also launched several projects across the state, including laying the foundation stone of a Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) centre at Jasidih in Deoghar. The STPI will cater to the needs of information technology industry and also boost the entrepreneurship and IT export from Jharkhand. The President also inaugurated two of the 31 new Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras in Jharkhand and six others in Bihar. These centres are meant to provide high-quality training in multiple sectors with special emphasis on manufacturing and services trades. Addressing the gathering, the President said many projects were launched to help hone the people’s skills and benefit them. “... it will widen the employment landscape in this land of heroes,” Mukherjee added.

Rahul hails Yogi's farm loan waiver

ongress Vice President Rahul Gandhi on Wednesday hailed Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's decision to waive off farm loans calling it a step in the right direction. He, however, cautioned the Central government against "discriminating among states". "A partial relief for UP (Uttar Pradesh) farmers, but a step in the right direction. The Congress has always supported loan waivers for farmers in distress." "I'm happy BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) has finally been forced to see reason," Rahul tweeted. He also advised the Centre not to "play politics with our farmers who are suffering across the country". "The Central government must have a national response to the widespread distress and not discriminate...," he said. The Uttar Pradesh government on Tuesday cleared a Rs 36,359-crore proposal allowing waiver of loans for marginal and small farmers of the state.

INDIA

India-UK launch 240m pound joint fund for green energy

7 April 2017| www.iwk.co.nz

ndia and Britain on Tuesday, April 4, agreed to jointly set up a fund with corpus contributions of 120 million pounds each to finance Indian infrastructure projects, it was announced. "In a major step taken today (Tuesday, April 4) on the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF), a sub-fund with UK and NIIF participation was agreed upon," Finance Minister Arun Jaitley told reporters. He was briefing the media after the ninth India-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue here with the British delegation led by Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond. "The Green Growth Equity Fund will have contributions of 120 million pounds from each participant to finance energy needs in India," he added. The joint statement at the end of the talks said the "joint fund aims to raise 500 million pounds by also leveraging private sector investment from the city of London to finance Indian

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Philip Hammond address a joint press conference in New Delhi, on April 4

infrastructure projects." India set Both ministers said they also up the NIIF in December 2015 as discussed a possible free trade an investment vehicle for funding agreement (FTA) after Britain commercially viable formally leaves European “Joint greenfield, brownfield Union (EU) through a fund aims and stalled projects. protracted process that to raise 500m is expected to take Last year, the pounds by also g o v e r n m e n t leveraging private sector about two years to announced that it investment from the city complete. is in the process of "Post-Brexit, of London to finance setting up two subthey are looking Indian funds under NIIF for more open infrastructure – one in renewable trade, and more trade projects energy, and another with arrangements with India," focus on highway projects. Jaitley said.

India court gives sacred Ganges and Yamuna rivers human status

court in northern Indian has given the Ganges and Yamuna rivers the status of “living human entities”. The high court in the Himalayan state of Uttarakhand said this would help in the “preservation and conservation” of the highly polluted rivers. It added that the “legal status” ensures that polluting the rivers would now amount to harming a human being. Both rivers are considered sacred in India and are considered goddesses by the majority Hindu population. The ruling comes a week after the Whanganui River in New Zealand became the first in the world to be granted the same legal rights as a person. The court said in its ruling that Hindus had “deep faith” in the two rivers and they “collectively connect with them”. “The rivers are central to the existence of half of the Indian population and their health and well being. They have provided both physical

Hindu devotees gather on the banks of the Ganges to take holy dips on Somvati Amavasya, Haridwar

NEWS in BRIEF India to get over 9 lakh tamperproof EVMs before 2019

he Election Commission will replace over nine lakh Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) with advanced M3 machines before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls, the government has informed Parliament. These machines will become inoperable the moment someone Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) attempts to tamper with them. The new EVMs are likely to be introduced by the end of 2018. The move comes in the wake of allegations of EVM-tampering by several political leaders in the February-March assembly polls. While the M3 EVMs are technologically advanced, there is no operational difference between these and other EVMs and they do not affect booth-management system, Minister of State for Law and Justice P.P. Chaudhary told the Lok Sabha in a written reply earlier this week. The minister said the Election Commission has decided to replace 9,30,430 EVMs purchased before 2006 in a phased manner before the General Election and simultaneous assembly polls in 2019.

Arvind Kejriwal's legal fees: I gave a discount to Delhi CM: Ram Jethmalani

aking light of his bill of over Rs 3.5 crore for defending Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal in a criminal defamation case, noted lawyer Ram Jethmalani said he had given a concession to the Delhi chief minister. "As a matter of fact, I have Ram Jethmalani given a concession to Kejriwal while defending him in the criminal defamation case. I have not asked for the retainer fee I normally charge my other clients. I have also reduced the fee for each appearance in court. Moreover, I have not charged him a penny for the elaborate conferences prior to each hearing in the trial court," Jethmalani Said. Jethmalani had charged Kejriwal Rs 1 crore as retainer fee and Rs 22 lakh per hearing in the case filed against him by finance minister Arun Jaitley. Conference fees charged by senior lawyers are almost as much as what they get for their appearance in court.

New liberalised visa regime being implemented: Minister

ommerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on said that the government has started to implement the new liberalised visa regime from April 1, 2017. The Union Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had on November 30, 2016, approved various measures for liberalisation of the visa regime. “Multiple entry tourist and business visas for a period of five years will now be available to nationals of most of the countries,” Sitharaman said. The new regime had sub-divided e-Visa into three categories –e-tourist visa, e-business visa and e-medical visa – for nationals of 161 countries to enter India through 24 airports. “E-visa facility extended to Cochin, Goa and Mangalore sea-ports (to benefit cruise tourism) soon also at Mumbai and Chennai sea-ports,” Sitharaman said. “Upon urgent requests, business visa and medical visa will be granted within 48 hours of application.” The minister pointed out, “Separate immigration counters and facilitation desks to assist medical tourist at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengluru and Hyderbad.” The government has also introduced a new category of visa for film production in India – (F) Visa – which has a maximum duration of one year with multiple entry facility.

Anti-Romeo squads doing good job: UP government

T Whanganui River in New Zealand

and spiritual sustenance to all of us from time immemorial,” it added. It went on to add that both rivers had become heavily polluted due to industrialisation and rapid urbanisation.

Two top state officials have been appointed as the “legal guardians” of the rivers and will represent their rights. Activists say the order is likely to fast track efforts to clean the rivers.

he Uttar Pradesh government on Tuesday, April 4, said the antiRomeo squads were doing a “good job” and slammed opposition parties for creating a controversy about them. Addressing the media after the first cabinet meeting of the Yogi Adityanath government, the state’s Power Minister Srikant Sharma said: “Anti-Romeo squads are doing a good job and are being hailed by the people of the entire state.” Sharma said that opposition parties tried to create controversy and demean it after the squads were formed. He said that before going to the field, members of the squads are properly briefed by senior police officials.

INDIA ABROAD

www.iwk.co.nz | 7 April 2017

Haley says she sounds

Changed H-1B visa norms don’t mean much for India: Nasscom

strong because that's how T her Sikh parents raised her A Punjabi may be out of Punjab, but Punjab is never out of her. Nikki Haley, the outspoken US ambassador to the UN, says if she comes out sounding strong, it's because that's how she was raised by her parents, who are Sikhs from Punjab. She does her "job to the best of my abilities and if that comes out blunt, comes out strong, I am one of two brothers and a sister and my parents raised us all to be strong," she said at a news conference on Monday, April 3. Her father Ajit Singh Randhwa, is from Amritsar district. He is an agriculture science professor. Her mother is Raj Kaur Randhwa. One of her brothers, Mitti Randhwa, was an Army officer who saw action in Operation Desert Storm, 1990-91, leading a company tasked with finding chemical weapons. Just over two months into her office as the first Indian American to be appointed to a cabinet-level position, she has made waves by calling a spade a spade, if not a shovel, in an arena where a diplomat may delicately call it a spoon. She has called the UN Human Rights Council "corrupt", the UN of being a partner of a "corrupt" government, and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad a "war criminal", and declared she was free to "beat up on Russia". And she perceives her job as shaking up the UN and pulling it by its purse strings, kicking and screaming, to carry out reforms. A TV reporter addressed her as "Madam President" because she presides over the Security Council this month, and quipped that's what she may be called in eight years – a hint that she may become the nation's President. Haley said that in every job she has held "people assumed I was looking for something bigger". But, she said, "In reality I am the daughter of Indian parents who said to me whatever you do be great at it and make sure people remember you for it. “That's all I have ever shown, try to be."

Nikki Haley

Haley h a s emerged as the face of American diplomacy with her outspokenness and availability to the public and the media - she was on three Sunday morning TV talk shows speaking out on US foreign policy, in addition to a speech at the Council on Foreign relations. In reality I am the daughter of Indian parents who said to me whatever you do be great at it and make sure people remember you for it. That’s all I have ever shown, try to be” – Nikki Haley Unlike most of President Donald Trump's cabinet and top officials she has a warm relationship with the otherwise belligerent media.

In contrast, Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has kept away from the media and minimised public appearances. Even his spokesperson, Mark Toner, is a holdover from President Barack Obama's administration. This makes Haley the only accessible authentic voice of Trump foreign policy, raising her public profile. That in turn has led to media speculation in recent days that she is likely to succeed Tillerson. Answering a question if she was offered the job of Secretary of State, Haley said that Trump did not make the offer when she met him at the Trump Tower barely two weeks after the election in November. But she said, "The original call that I got to go to Trump Tower was to discuss Secretary of State." She added, "When we went in that was the position we were discussing."

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he Indian IT industry This visa allows work in the body Nasscom aid the particular area for six years, clarifying guidance by the extendable after that. It is also the USCIS on eligibility for computer route to a US permanent residency programmers under the H-1B visa or a US Green Card. norms will have little impact on Noting that several of its its members, as the clarification members have applied for visas for has been the adjudicatory practice higher level professionals this year, for years. the apex body said the evidence “The March 31 USCIS showed that the jobs were complex memorandum reinforces an and required professional degrees. existing practice by adjudicators “Our member companies and clarifies requirements for provide skilled talent and solutions certain computer professionals,” to US firms. The H-1B visa system said the National Association exists specifically because of the of Software Services and persistent shortage of highly-skilled Companies (Nasscom). domestic IT talent in the US,” the The US Citizenship statement pointed out. “Our and Immigration member Indian IT companies Services (USCIS) companies provide would continue to On March skilled talent and provide skilled talent 31 issued a solutions to US firms. The and solutions to clarification H-1B visa system exists fill that gap and that computer specifically because of the keep US firms persistent shortage of programmers, competitive globally, highly-skilled domestic to be eligible it added. IT talent in under the H-1B In its policy the US” visa norms, must memorandum, the prove that theirs is USCIS mentioned: “Based a specialty occupation. on the current version of the Merely obtaining a computer Handbook, the fact that a person degree may not be enough. may be employed as a computer Coming just ahead of start of programmer and may use the new season for H-1B visas for information technology skills and skilled workers, it was largely seen knowledge to help an enterprise as the tightening of norms by the achieve its goals in the course US authorities for hiring computer of his or her job is not sufficient programmers, thus putting a to establish the position as a squeeze on Indian IT companies. specialty occupation.” US embassies the world over The memorandum said: “A started accepting next year’s H-1B petitioner may not rely solely on the visa petitions from April 3. Handbook to meet its burden when Indian techies have been the seeking to sponsor a beneficiary for biggest beneficiaries of the H-1B a computer programmer position. visas – obtaining about 70 per cent Instead, a petitioner must provide of such visas -- with companies other evidence to establish that posting thousands of employees to the particular position is one in a the US. specialty occupation...”

Indian-American entrepreneur to challenge Democrat for Senate race

ndian-American entrepreneur Shiva Ayyadurai will challenge liberal icon and Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren in the 2018 US Senate race from the state of Massachusetts. The Indian-American, who claims that he invented the email, first announced his candidacy last month to "defend the American dream", the American Bazaar Online reported on Thursday. On his campaign website, Ayyadurai stated: "I'll always be grateful for the opportunities I've found here (America). Now I'm committed to preserving, protecting, and expanding those opportunities for the citizens of Massachusetts and for all Americans. That's the new American Revolution, and I hope you'll join me in this fight." The Mumbai-born entrepreneur has four Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) degrees and is also a contributor to BreitBart news, a far-right American news, opinion and commentary website. Ayyadurai, who is so far the only declared Republican candidate,

Indian-American entrepreneur Shiva Ayyadurai

has been going after Warren right from the beginning, hashtaging her as "FAKEFIGHTER" on Twitter. During her political carrier, the Massachusetts senior senator has earned a name as fighter for consumers and the working class. In a recent tweet, he launched a rather "Trumpesque" attack on the Senator Warren for her call to increase federal investment in medical research. Ayyadurai came to the US at the age of seven in 1970 and went on to become a renowned systems scientist, inventor, and entrepreneur.

WORLD

7 April 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

Trump may get involved in IndiaPakistan peace process: Haley T he US is concerned about the state of India-Pakistan relations and President Donald Trump himself may get involved in a peace process between the two South Asian antagonists, Nikki Haley, the US Permanent Representative to the UN said on Monday, April 3. “This administration is concerned about the relationship between India and Pakistan and very much wants to see how we de-escalate any sort of conflict going forward,” Haley, who holds a cabinet rank in the Trump administration, said. “I would expect that the administration going to be in talks and try and find its place to be part of that (process).” She added, “And also wouldn’t be surprised if the President participates as well.” India has opposed external involvement in bilateral issues with Pakistan. During his campaign in 2016, Trump had offered to mediate between India and Pakistan, but was careful to add

Zardari, Bilawal hit out at Sharif for ‘failed' policy

ormer Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari and his son Bilawal Bhutto lashed out on Tuesday at Nawaz Sharifled government for "not doing much against terrorism during last two years". "The country (Pakistan) has made no progress against terrorism and is standing exactly where it was two years ago," claimed Pakistan Peoples Party co-chairperson Bilawal Bhutto while addressing a mammoth rally held to mark the 38th death anniversary of party founder Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Bilawal cautioned Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif about the dangerous game of undermining federation by allocating huge funds for certain areas. "Mian Sahib, you are playing a dangerous game. What do you want to prove by approving Rs 37 billion gas project for an area," he said. Regarding the glamorous political life of PPP's founder Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, Bilawal maintained that it (April 4) was the darkest day in the history of Pakistan. "On this day, the leader who defeated dictators was hanged," Bilawal said. The 28-year-old chairman enquired about the progress made during the PML-N's current stint and added that billions of rupees were being spent in an extravagant fashion to advertise this progress. Zardari maintained that he was waiting for the Panama papers verdict to chalk out the future strategy and claimed that his party was ready for parliamentary elections even in 2017.

President Donald Trump

that it was only if the two nations wanted him to. In an interview to The Hindustan Times he said that he “would be honoured” to be a moderator. “I think if they wanted me to, I would love to be the mediator or arbitrator.” Haley was answering

a question from a reporter at her news conference on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of April. The reporter pointed out that India does not want an interlocutor for talks with Pakistan, while Islamabad wanted the US or

another country to facilitate talks between them and asked if the US would get the leaders of the two countries to talk. With Secretary of State Rex Tillerson keeping a low public profile and generally avoiding the media, Haley is emerging as the public face of US diplomacy making her presence felt in the media aided by her cabinet status. Her statement about IndiaPakistan relations, therefore, assume importance and it is the first high-level Trump administration statement on India’s relations with Pakistan. While it is not clear what steps the US could take, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to meet Trump in Washington in May when the two could discuss it. Former President Barack Obama also had said during his 2008 campaign that the US should mediate the Kashmir dispute. The offer met with strong opposition in India and he did not actively follow it up when he became President.

Cabinet approves MoUs with Bangladesh

head of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit to India this week, the Union Cabinet approved various bilateral MOUs on river transport, judicial cooperation, audio-visual cooperation and media. Among these Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) is one on the development of AshuganjZakiganj stretch of Kushiyara river and Sirajganj-Daikhawa stretch of the Jamuna river to improve connectivity between the two countries. An official release said the MoU will help reduce logistics cost of cargo movement to northeast India and also reduce congestion through the Siliguri's Chicken's Neck corridor. Both countries will undertake necessary dredging jointly via the India-Bangladesh protocol route. Another MoU pertains to passenger cruise services on coastal

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina

and protocol routes between India and Bangladesh to ferry people on water crafts between the two countries. The MoU that got the nod aims at strengthening mutual cooperation between the judiciaries of the two countries through exchange of knowledge in infrastructure and information technology. The agreement in audio-visual field will cover coproduction of films, documentaries, animations films, and utilisation of Indian

locales for shooting. India has so far entered into audio-visual coproduction agreements with Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, Brazil, France, New Zealand, Poland, Spain, Canada, China and South Korea. The MoU on mass media will facilitate training and study tour of media personnel and cooperation between educational, training and research institutions in mass media field. This will also facilitate accredited mass media representatives to set up offices on reciprocity basis in the two countries. India and Bangladesh are set to ink 35 agreements during the visit of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to India from April 7 to 10. Hasina's last visit to India was in January 2010. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Bangladesh in June 2015.

False Facebook post costs woman $500,000

judge in North Carolina has ordered a woman to pay $500,000 for writing a Facebook post falsely accusing her former friend of killing her son. According to a report in Telegraph.co.uk, Jacquelyn Hammond from Asheville wrote on Facebook, in 2015, of Davyne Dial: "I didn't get drunk and kill my kid." But Dial who claimed to have nothing to do with her son's death sued Hammond for defamation, intentional infliction of emotional distress and negligent infliction of emotional distress. Dial and Hammond's friendship had broken down after the failed attempt to work together on the radio station. "There are no filters on social media to say whatever you think behind the safety of your screen. She had made other untrue statements through the years, but when this happened, it was very painful," said Dial. The announcement delivered last month awarded Dial $250,000 in actual damages and $250,000 in punitive damages, for a total judgment of $500,000. "I think people today don't recognise the importance of their words," said Missy Owen, a lawyer in North Carolina, adding that people should learn from Hammond's mistake. "Just because it is very easy to get your words out there does not mean you should. You can get in trouble anytime you make a false statement about someone else that damages their character or reputation."

NASA's Cassini probe set to end 20-year journey

ASA's Cassini spacecraft, which was launched in 1997 and arrived at Saturn in 2004, is about to begin the final chapter of its remarkable story this month. On April 26, the spacecraft will make the first in a series of dives through the 2,400-kilometre gap between Saturn and its rings as part of the mission's grand finale, NASA said. "No spacecraft has ever gone through the unique region that we'll attempt to boldly cross 22 times," said Thomas Zurbuchen, Associate Administrator for the Science Mission Directorate at NASA H eadquarters in Washington. "What we learn from Cassini's daring final orbits will further our understanding of how giant planets, and planetary systems everywhere, form and evolve. This is truly discovery in action to the very end," Zurbuchen added. During its time at Saturn, Cassini has made

NASA’s Cassini

numerous dramatic discoveries, including a global ocean that showed indications of hydrothermal activity within the icy moon Enceladus, and liquid methane seas on its moon Titan. Now 20 years since launching from Earth, and after 13 years orbiting the ringed planet, Cassini is running low on fuel. In 2010, NASA decided to end the mission with a purposeful plunge into Saturn in 2017.

Using expertise gained over the mission's many years, Cassini engineers designed a flight plan that will maximise the scientific value of sending the spacecraft toward its fateful plunge into the planet on September 15. Cassini will transition to its grand finale orbits, with a last close flyby of Saturn's giant moon Titan, on April 22. As it has many times over the course of the mission, Titan's gravity will bend Cassini's flight path. Cassini's orbit then will shrink so that instead of making its closest approach to Saturn just outside the rings, it will begin passing between the planet and the inner edge of its rings. When Cassini makes its final plunge into Saturn's atmosphere on September 15, it will send data from several instruments – most notably, data on the atmosphere's composition – until its signal is lost, NASA said.

www.iwk.co.nz | 7 April 2017

Sindhu conquers Marin

SPORTS 23 NEWS in BRIEF

Paes wins Leon Challenger title

to bag maiden India Open title V I

ndia’s Olympic 2016 silver medallist P.V. Sindhu overcame her Rio Games conqueror Carolina Marin of Spain in straight games to win her maiden India Open Superseries badminton title at a packed Siri Fort Sports Complex on Sunday, April 2. The match-up between Sindhu and Marin was a repeat of the 2016 Rio Olympic final which saw the Spaniard taking away the gold medal in a hardfought encounter. But in front of her home fans here, third seed Sindhu posted a 21-19, 21-16 triumph in 46 minutes to give another display of her fast-rising career. Since the Rio final, it was the second contest between the two shuttlers and the 21-year-old Hyderabadi has won both. With this win, Sindhu also equalised 5-5 in career meetings against the two-time reigning world champion. The Spanish top seed struggled with her net game which proved to be the difference between the two. But Sindhu also had to be credited for showing her ever-improving game, especially in the cross-court net-game and defence. Backed by a partisan crowd, Sindhu got off to a flying start, opening up a 6-1 lead but Marin got her act together to reduce the deficit to one at 6-7, thanks to her delectable half smashes. Sindhu then upped the ante and then pushed Marin into all corners. Hitting to the right of left-hander Marin, Sindhu gained the ascendancy even though the fighting Marin kept coming back at her. Sindhu felt the pressure as Marin equalised at the 16-point mark and for the first took the lead at the next point. The see-saw game continued till the 19-point mark. Then, a powerful stroke from Sindhu to which Marin put it wide made it 2019 for the Indian. Sindhu then sealed the first game when Marin was slow to defend a half smash. The second game also saw Sindhu getting in the lead early, forcing Marin to play the catch-up game. Marin seemed to be struggling with her movement due to a right foot niggle. But the warrior that she is, the Spaniard fought back to come within a point of

equalising at the seven-point mark. But Sindhu pushed on, holding an 11-7 lead at the mid-game break. Marin fired two angling smashes to make it 9-11 before the Indian snatched three consecutive points to have a five-point advantage. Then onwards, double World Championship bronze medallist Sindhu never looked back and sealed the match with a 21-16 victory. In the men’s final, top seed Viktor Axelsen of Denmark won his first India Open title as he thrashed Chinese Taipei’s Chou Chen Tien 21-13, 21-10 in 36 minutes. It was the Rio Games bronze medallist Axelsen’s third straight final appearance as the Dane further enhanced his domination in career meetings against Chou to 6-1. The men’s doubles title went to Indonesian fourth seeds Marcus Gideon Fernaldi and Kevin Sanjaya Sukamuljo, who took only 30 minutes to see off compatriot sixth seeds Ricky Karanda Suwardi and Angga Pratama 21-11, 21-15 to retain their crown. In the women’s doubles final, Japanese seventh seeds’s Shiho Tanaka and Koharu Yonemoto defeated compatriot third seeds Naoko Fukuman and Kurumi Yonao 1621, 21-19, 21-10 in an hour and 12 minutes. It was Tanaka and Yonemoto pair’s first Superseries title. In an all-Chinese mixed doubles clash, second seeds Lu Kai and Huang Yaqiong got the better of top seeds Zheng Siwei and Chen Qingchen 22-24, 21-14, 21-17 in an hour and f o u r minutes.

India’s P V Sindhu (R), pictured here with her opponent Carolina Marin, celebrates after winning women’s singles final of the 'Yonex-Sunrise India Open 2017 tournament', in New Delhi

eteran star Leander Paes and his Canadian partner Adil Shamasdin notched up a straight sets win to clinch the men’s doubles title at the Leon Challenger Tour tennis tournament. The Indo-Canadian combination defeated Luca Margaroli of Switzerland and Brazil’s Caro Zampieri 6-1, 6-4 in the final of the $75,000 hard court event. This is 20th ATP Challenger title of Paes’s career and his first final this season. He had earlier reached the semi-finals of the Dubai Championships and the Delray Beach Open.

Federer wins 3rd title in Miami, defeating Nadal

oger Federer won his third ATP World Masters 1,000 tourney at the Miami Open in Key Biscayne, Florida, once again defeating Spain’s Rafael Nadal 6-3, 6-4 in an hour and 34 minutes. The Spaniard this year has lost all three of his confrontations with the Swiss champ, including the Australian Open final. “I’m moving up in the (Emirates ATP Rankings) and I just want to stay healthy,” Federer told ESPN on Sunday after the match, Efe news reported. “When I’m healthy and feeling good, I can produce tennis like this. That’s why taking a break and resting during the clay season and focusing on Roland Garros, the grass and the hard courts after that is best. It would be great to be No. 1 again, but it’s a long way away,” the No. 4-ranked star added.

Messi back for Barcelona; Real Madrid take on Leganes

rgentine talisman Lionel Messi is back for FC Barcelona as they look to maintain their La Liga football title hopes with a home game against Sevilla on Wednesday, April 5. Wednesday could be decisive in the race for the La Liga title as Real Madrid kick off their game away against Leganes almost as soon as the final whistle blows in the Camp Nou stadium in the Barcelona-Sevilla tie, reported Xinhua news agency. Barcelona kick off two points behind Real Madrid and with an extra game played, but Messi’s return after suspension and that of defender Gerard Pique, who was rested for the 4-1 win away over Granada, will be a major boost for Luis Enrique’s side. Neymar and especially Luis Suarez ensured that Messi wasn’t missed at the weekend, but his return will be important against a Sevilla side that looks to have run off the rails in recent matches.

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Sudoku

Daily Sudoku puzzle No. 3821

Fill in all the squares in the grid so that each row, column and each of the 3x3 squares contains allMedium thelevel digits from to 9.puzzle No. 3820 2017-03-29 Daily1Sudoku Medium level Daily Sudoku puzzle No. 3822 2017-03-31 2017-03-30

3 2 3

7 2

7 6 3

8 1 4

1 6

8 6

8 3

Answers to last week's puzzles

8 3

Word Scramble

Crossword

Page 1/2

Medium level

4 8

6 9

2 5

2 6

7 April 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

1. ACEHLOOTC 2. EIHD 3. IDARYF 4. BIABTR 5. SGGE 6. BNYNU 7. HTUN 8. LHAMRMSLWOA 9. EKSABT Play sudoku online at: Play sudoku online at: Play sudoku online at: 10. DYSANU 11. EASELV 12. AELGOFI www.sudokukingdom.com www.sudokukingdom.com www.sudokukingdom.com 13. SREET 14. ISLURQRE 15. ORBWN 16. OCNAR 17. KEAR 18. IWND Puzzle solution: Puzzle solution: Puzzle solution: 19. SANSOE 20. DER 21. PHAYP Sudoku puzzle No. 3810 2017-03-19 Sudoku puzzle No. 3811 2017-03-20 Sudoku puzzle No. 3809 2017-03-18 22. EUFCNSOD 7 1 6 4 9 2 8 5 3 4 2 7 8 6 3 9 1 5 1 6 2 7 5 8 3 9 4 23. GANYR 2 5 9 3 6 8 1 7 4 4 3 8 1 9 6 7 5 2 3 9 5 1 7 4 2 6 8 24. DRPEI 7 9 5 4 3 2 6 1 8 4 8 3 7 1 5 6 2 9 8 6 1 5 2 9 4 7 3 25. ENYLLO 3 8 4 5 2 7 9 6 1 6 2 8 9 3 4 5 1 7 6 7 3 4 1 8 5 2 9 26. ASD 6 2 7 9 1 4 8 3 5 3 7 5 6 8 1 9 4 2 9 1 4 7 5 2 3 8 6 27. ISUSRPDER 9 5 1 6 8 3 2 4 7 9 4 1 2 5 7 3 8 6 2 5 8 3 9 6 7 4 1 28. EYVN 8 1 6 3 7 5 4 2 9 1 6 7 5 2 9 4 3 8 1 4 9 6 3 7 8 5 2 29. SAEMH 5 7 3 2 4 9 1 8 6 8 3 4 1 7 6 2 9 5 5 8 2 9 4 1 6 3 7 30. TEEICDX Page 1/2

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5 9 2 8 4 3 7 6 1

Daily Jumble

Hitori Objective and Rules of Hitori Eliminate numbers until there are no duplicates in any row or column. Eliminate numbers by marking them in Black. You are not allowed to have two Black squares touching horizontally or vertically (diagonally is ok). White cells must not be isolated from the rest of the board.

1. CARROT 2. PIE 3. FRUIT 4. BACON 5. CHEESE 6. APPLE 7. BREAD 8. VEGETABLE 9. CANDY 10. RICE

7 3 6 2 8 5 1 9 4

2 4 9 8 6 1 5 7 3

11. BANANA 12. TOMATO 13. LETTUCE 14. CORN 15. POTATO 16. STRAWBERRY 17. HAMBURGER 18. ORANGE 19. PIZZA 20. SOUP

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

General Knowledge Quiz 1. 2.

Which planet is closest to the sun? How many holes are there in a ten pin bowling ball? 3. What is a baby seal called? 4. How many valves or keys does a trumpet have? 5. How is the number 5 written in Roman numerals? 6. What cheese shares its name with an English Gorge? 7. In which country is the Louvre Museum? 8. Which is the tallest mountain in the world? 9. What is the name of Fred Flintstones daughter? 10. How many village people were there? 11. How many wings does a bee have?

12. True or False: All polar bears are left-handed? 13. 1How many arms does a starfish usually have? 14. What is the name given to a group of Lions? 15. Cats were once sacred animals in what ancient culture? 16. Who were the backing group for Bill Hailey? Comets 17. In Children’s TV, Who had the ability to swap heads? 18. What was the name of the cow in “The Magic Roundabout”? 19. What type of sandwiches were Paddington’s favourite? 20. What type of vegetable is a mange-tout?

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How technology fills void when you feel lonely

12 foods that lower Cholesterol naturally

t may be easy to carry on a conversation with Siri on your iPhone or your Google assistant from your living room as they can help fill a void when you feel lonely. But, according to a new study, these humanlike products keep people from seeking out normal human interaction -which is typically how people try to recover from loneliness - thus negatively affecting their social needs. "Generally, when people feel socially excluded, they seek out other ways of compensating, like exaggerating their number of Facebook friends or engaging in prosocial behaviours to seek out interaction with other people," said Jenny Olson, Assistant Professor at the University of Kansas in the US. However, "when you introduce a humanlike product, those compensatory behaviours stop", Olson rued. The study, published the in the Journal of Consumer Research, showed evidence that people who felt socially excluded would exhibit these compensating behaviours unless they were given the opportunity to interact with an anthropomorphic product.

In the study, the participants were asked to play an online game of "catch" in which other participants who were computerised, unknown to them. After engaging with a Roomba vacuum whose design made it seem like it was smiling or when asked to think about their cellphone in humanlike terms, participants would not feel the need to plan to spend time talking to family or friends, the researchers noted. Nevertheless, the ability for these products to replace human contact has its limits because certain statements seemed to snap participants back to reality. "As soon as we tell people we know that it looks like the Roomba is smiling, they seemed to realize it was a machine and not a person," Olson said. "The effect goes away. This seems to be happening on a very subconscious level," he added. The research could be important for consumers to realise how these types of products could thwart their motivation to interact with real people, especially because so many new products feature interactivity.

Can Instagram help adolescents fight depression?

ome may scoff at adolescents' use of social media networks as they pine for likes, but a new study suggests that using the photo-sharing app Instagram can actually strengthen the closeness of their friendships which in turn may help curb depression. "This age group may be particularly at risk for the impact of Instagram, given the increasing popularity of Instagram in adolescence and given the increase of depressive symptoms during this stage of life," said researcher Eline Frison from University of Leuven in Belgium. "This study offers practitioners greater insight into the outcomes of adolescents' Instagram use," Frison said. The findings are scheduled to be presented at the 67th annual International Communication Association conference to be held at San Diego, California from May 25-29, 2017.

From 2013-2014, Frison set up a largescale study to investigate the relationships between adolescents' social networking site use and their well-being. Students filled out paper-and-pencil surveys between six-month periods. The surveys asked students about their use of social networking sites like Facebook, Snapchat, and Instagram, and their wellbeing (depressive symptoms, life satisfaction, loneliness). The data analysed revealed that using Instagram at one point was related to increased closeness to friends (perception that they are appreciated and loved by their friends) six months later, which in turn was related to lower levels of depression. However, the researchers cautioned that if the use of the photo sharing app fails to stimulate the feeling closeness to friends, it could be harmful in the long run.

Oats: If you're looking to lower your cholesterol, the key may be simply changing your morning meal. Switching up your breakfast to contain two servings of oats can lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol. The key to this cholesterol buster is beta-glucan, a substance in oats that absorbs LDL, which your body then excretes. Red wine: Scientists are giving us yet another reason to drink to our health. It turns out that highfiber Tempranillo red grapes, used to make red wine like Rioja, may actually significantly lower cholesterol levels. Salmon & fatty fish: Omega-3 fats are one of the natural health wonders of the world and have been shown to ward off heart disease, dementia, and many other diseases. Now these fatty acids can add yet another health benefit to their repertoire: lowering cholesterol. According to research, replacing saturated fats with omega-3s like those found in salmon, sardines, and herring can raise good cholesterol. Nuts: If you're looking for a snack food that lowers cholesterol levels, research shows that you should get cracking! Almonds and cashews are other good options. However, while nuts are heart healthy, they're also high in calories, so practice portion control—1.5 oz is about a shot glass and a half. Use a shot glass to measure out your portion so you can see exactly how it looks. Tea: While tea has become well known for its cancer-fighting antioxidants, it is also a great defense against high LDL cholesterol levels. According to research, black tea has been shown to reduce blood lipids and also help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. Beans: Beans, beans—they really are good for your heart. The key to this hearthealthy food is its abundance of fiber, which has been shown to slow the rate and amount of absorption of cholesterol in certain foods. Try black, kidney, or pinto beans; each supplies about one-third of your daily fiber needs. Chocolate: This powerful antioxidant helps build HDL ("good") cholesterol levels. Remember to choose the dark or bittersweet kind. Compared to milk chocolate, it has more than 3 times as many antioxidants, which prevent blood platelets from sticking together and may

even keep arteries unclogged. Margarine: Switching to a margarine with plant sterols, such as Promise activ or Benecol, could help lower cholesterol. Plant sterols are compounds that reduce cholesterol absorption; a study found that women who had a higher plant sterol–based diet were able to lower total cholesterol by 3.5%. Garlic: Aside from adding zing to almost any dish, garlic makes the list of foods that lower cholesterol; it's also been found to prevent blood clots, reduce blood pressure, and protect against infections. Now research finds that it helps stop artery-clogging plaque at its earliest stage by keeping cholesterol particles from sticking to artery walls. Olive oil: This common cooking ingredient can help your health. Olive oil is full of heart-healthy monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), which lower LDL cholesterol—and have the welcome side effect of trimming belly fat. Use it to make your own salad dressings, marinate chicken and fish, or roast vegetables. Spinach: This popular green food contains lots of lutein, the sunshine-yellow pigment found in dark green leafy vegetables and egg yolks. Lutein already has a reputation for guarding against age-related macular degeneration, a leading cause of blindness. Now research suggests that just ½ cup of a lutein-rich food daily also guards against heart attacks by helping artery walls "shrug off" cholesterol invaders that cause clogging. Avocado: Avocados are a great source of heart-healthy MUFAs, which may actually help raise HDL cholesterol while lowering LDL. And, more than any other fruit, this delectable food packs cholesterol-smashing beta-sitosterol, a beneficial plant-based fat that reduces the amount of cholesterol absorbed from food. Since avocados are a bit high in calories and fat use them in moderation.

Health Tip of the Week Have garlic on empty stomach every morning with water. It flushes cholesterol and helps regulate weight gain.

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Punjabi singersongwriter Babbu Maan met his fans at the Meet and Greet at Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Grand Haveli

Photos courtesy: Pal Productions

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PARENTING

Parents spending more time

with kids than in 1960s: Study

o you feel guilty of being unable to spend quality time with your children? Take heart, as according to a new counter-intuitive study, parents are spending more time with their children than they did 50 years ago. The findings showed that the time spent with kids is highest among better-educated parents. "According to economic theory, higher wages should discourage well-educated parents from foregoing work to spend extra time with youngsters. Also, they have the money to pay others to care for their children," said Judith Treas, Professor at University of California, Irvine. For the study, the researchers studied 122,271 parents – (68,532 mothers, 53,739 fathers) in Canada, the UK, the US, Denmark, Norway, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Italy, Spain and Slovenia – from 1965 and 2012 for the amount of time they spent with their kids. In 1965, mothers spent a daily average of 54 minutes on childcare activities, while in 2012 they averaged almost twice that at 104 minutes per day. Fathers' time with children nearly quadrupled. In 1965, fathers spent a daily average of just 16 minutes with their kids, while today's they spend about 59 minutes a day caring for them. These numbers include parents

from all education levels. But, the researchers found quite a difference between parents with a college education and parents with low levels of education. The college-educated mothers spent an estimated 123 minutes daily on child care, compared with 94 minutes spent by less educated mothers. Fathers with a college degree spent about 74 minutes a day with their kids, while less educated fathers averaged 50 minutes. "Time spent with children involved everything from preparing their meals and snacks to feeding and bathing them, changing diapers and clothes, putting them to bed, getting up in the middle of the night, unpaid babysitting, providing medical care, reading and playing with them, as well

as supervising and helping with homework," Treas said. However, France was the only country that showed a decrease in mothers' childcare time. The decline was not as steep for collegeeducated moms as it was for less educated French mothers, while for dads, both education levels saw an increase in parenting time. According to Treas, the study results are in line with an "intensive parenting" ideology that has become a cultural child-rearing trend. "The time parents spend with children is regarded as critical for positive cognitive, behavioural and academic outcomes," she said. "Contemporary fathers -- having more egalitarian gender views – want to be more involved in their children's lives than their own fathers were," Treas stated.

April7 to April 13 | By Manisha Koushik ¡¡ Aries (Mar 21-Apr 20)

¡¡ Cancer (Jun 22-Jul 20)

Some other avenues of making money may open up for you. You can expect total support of the family in a new venture. A luxury item is likely to be bought soon. Your charm is likely to impress someone of the opposite gender. A laid-back attitude towards work may put you behind schedule. An office love can distract you and make you lag behind at work. Those travelling abroad will need to be careful of their belongings. Don’t take up the past under any pretext.

Blowing your own trumpet gets you nowhere on the professional front, so play it cool. Someone may bully you but avoid reacting any further to his or her whims and fancies. A medical problem needs to be taken seriously, as neglect may aggravate it. A pressing engagement may delay the deadline of the project at hand. Mounting expenses may compel some to seek a better paying job. Efforts will be required to win the heart of the one you love.

Lucky number: 17 / Lucky colour: Violet

Lucky number: 3 / Lucky colour: Orange

¡¡Taurus (Apr 21-May 20)

¡¡ Leo (Jul 21-Aug 22)

You may not find yourself in the right frame of mind to tackle anything complex at work. There is a possibility of a prized job going to someone else, so tighten your belt. Your steps to become financially secure may be too little, too late. You will be able to reap rich dividends in an overseas investment. Spouse can feel burdened and may not appear his or her happy self. A new health fad may not be as beneficial, as it had first seemed.

Professional guidance may be required in completing a project. Those in the upper tax bracket will need to manage their finances well. If you are looking for a soul mate, this week you get lucky. Don’t let a minor problem cropping up at home affect the harmony. An enjoyable vacation is coming, so get set for fun. Expenses may be on the rise. Pain in the lower back or legs may disturb you; keep the necessary pain killers handy.

Lucky number: 11 / Lucky colour: Lavender

Lucky number: 6 / Lucky colour: Dark green

¡¡ Gemini (May 21-Jun 21)

¡¡ Virgo (Aug 23-Sep 23)

Chances of promotion may seem to dwindle, as competition grows at work. Networking will prove worth it in getting you a better break. You may be in a mood for some fun on the romantic front, but lover may not share your mood. Social invites could keep you busy. Spending on friends will may get your wallet lighter, so don’t overdo it. Getting romantically linked with a co-worker or fellow student may affect your reputation; stay alert.

Shopping for exotic things will be fun. You will enjoy spending time with loved ones. Your talents are likely to be recognized at work. You may have to keep someone at an arm’s length, if you want to retain your peace of mind. Romantic bonds are set to become stronger through only with your own efforts. A vacation will do you a whale of a good in relaxing. Change your eating habits to remain energetic. You may pick up an interesting hobby.

Lucky number: 9 / Lucky colour: Magenta

Lucky number: 22 / Lucky colour: Dark grey

Mothers find parenting more tiring than fathers

arents generally enjoy being with their kids but mothers enjoy it less than fathers because they do more of the "work" and less of the "fun" parenting duties, says a study. The researchers found that mothers reported more stress and greater fatigue than fathers due to parenting tasks. This experience gap is attributed to the differing tasks of each parent. "Mothers are more likely than fathers to be called on by When mothers are kids 'around the clock'. with their kids, Fathers' sleep and they are more often by down-time are less likely than mothers' themselves. When fathers to be interrupted by are with their kids, they are more likely to have kids. This is part of other adults around, The researchers the reason fathers are offering some back- found that not only up. less tired than mothers do parenting activities when parenting," said one of between mothers and fathers the researchers Ann Meier from differ, the environment surrounding University of Minnesota in the US. the activity differs as well. Meier and her colleagues Kelly "When mothers are with their Musick at Cornell University and kids, they are more often by Sarah Flood at the Minnesota themselves. When fathers are with Population Centre used time their kids, they are more likely to diary data from more than 12,000 have other adults around, offering parents that linked to their feelings some back-up. This helps us in the 2010, 2012, and 2013 understand why fathers are less American Time Use Survey. stressed when with kids," Meier The team examined the types of explained. parenting activities mothers and Sleep also had an effect fathers performed and individual on parents' differing levels of well-being during the activities. happiness, Meier said. 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

¡¡ Libra (Sep 24-Oct 23) You are likely to take the right course of action in a contentious issue. Someone who is close to you may seek your support. Those awaiting exam results can expect to do well. An award or recognition awaits those in the media industry. Money will pose no problems despite your splurging. You will be able to convince the family on your ideas and get full support. Health may become a concern, if you eat wrong. A little disappointment on the financial front is indicated. Lucky number: 4 / Lucky colour: Violet

¡¡ Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22) Don’t feel left out on the social front, but go out and participate. Your helping hand at home will be appreciated. Person you are in love with will offer you something you just can’t refuse. A break in your busy schedule will be most welcome. Your persuasive ways are likely to put off someone important this week. Students may perform below par. Repaying a loan is likely to become a financial burden and compel you to scrounge the bottom. Lucky number: 8 / Lucky colour: Purple

¡¡ Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21) “Patience” should be your mantra this week. Time to impress others has arrived. Benefits accrue through networking. You will be forced to set right a person casting aspersions on you. An errant family member will need to be dealt with diplomatically. Chances of promotion start looking slim for borderline cases. Sudden insights could lighten your tensions in love life. Health wise, junk food is likely to become your enemy number one. Lucky number: 2 / Lucky colour: Indigo

¡¡ Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 21) Good contacts will translate into new opportunities on the professional front. Increased workload can keep you busy on the professional front. Your ideas on the home front may not cut ice with spouse. Some of you are likely to be on the lookout for a helping hand. A child may need guidance, so spare some time for him or her. Plan your schedule in a way that caters to romantic breaks too. You can try your luck in stocks. Marital woes should be nipped in bud. Lucky number: 5/ Lucky colour: Aqua green

¡¡ Aquarius (Jan 22-Feb 19) An ailment may recur due to sheer negligence, but you will manage to bring it under control. You can expect to have a nice time in the company of friends this week. Professionally a satisfying period is foreseen, when you will be able to complete all your tasks successfully. Focus on networking and increasing your sphere of influence. Things start looking bright on the financial front as earnings increase. Family and friends will be supportive. Verify all the facts and figures before playing with stocks. Lucky number: 7 / Lucky colour: Grey

¡¡ Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20) Something you have started will need your time and energy for completion. Hurdles on the professional front cannot be ruled out. You will manage to remain motivated to undertake a difficult job and ensure its successful completion. Those in love can plan an outing to spend time together. You manage to motivate yourself for workouts and keep fit. An entertaining pastime can keep you busy. Horizon on the academic front brightens. Travel is likely to be hectic and stressful. Lucky number: 18 / Lucky colour: Saffron

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7 April 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

AUCKL AND’S HOT TEST BOLLY WOOD STATION

Priyanka is 2nd most beautiful

Farhan hopes to make Don 3 soon

ctor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar hopes to soon bring the much-awaited "Don 3" to the big screen. The first part, starring superstar Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra, in the "Don" franchise hit the screens in 2006. Its sequel, also helmed by Farhan, released in 2011. And now, fans are rallying for the action thriller to be brought back for the third time. Asked about it, Farhan said in a video chat: "Soon I hope." He also said "different things are happening right now" related to work. "You will hear about them soon," promised Farhan, who was last seen on the big screen in the 2016 film "Rock On 2". As of now, he is urging his fans to help him in preserving the planet. He has teamed up with National Geographic brand to drive an important social cause. "There is something very important and exciting that I need to share with you all. National Geographic and I have teamed up for what is important to us. What we are going to be talking about is an issue that we will share with you on 21st," said the "big animal lover".

woman in the world, right behind Beyoncé

riyanka Chopra has just added another feather to her much bedecked hat. Our Desi Girl has defeated famous personalities like Angelina Jolie, Emma Watson, Blake Lively and Michelle Obama to become the second most beautiful woman in the world. In a poll done by LA-based photo journal and videosharing social media network BuzzNet, Priyanka is just behind pop diva Beyonce in the list of the most beautiful women in the world. The 34-year-old star took to Twitter to share the list and thanked her fans for voting. Model and Victoria’s Secret angel Taylor Hill is at number three, followed by Emma Watson, Dakota Johnson and Hillary Clinton at fourth, fifth and sixth positions respectively. Jolie is on eighth number,

while this year’s Oscar winner, La La Land star Emma Stone is at number 12. Supermodel Gigi Hadid is on the 13 position and the former first lady of the US Michelle Obama is on number 21. The list also includes Wonder Woman star Gal Gadot, Oprah Winfrey, Naomi Campbell, Alicia Vikander, Margot Robbie, and Priyanka’s Baywatch co-star Alexandra Daddario. Priyanka Chopra became a name to reckon with in the West after she landed the lead role in the TV series Quantico. Her singles In My City and Exotic, in which she was seen alongside Pitbull, also fetched her much acclaim beyond the country’s shores. Over the last two years, in the postQuantico world, Priyanka Chopra has been to the Academy Awards, the Golden Globes, in addition to picking up awards for her role in the series. Chopra was named the Favorite Dramatic TV Actress at the 2017 People’s Choice Awards. The actor is now looking at her maiden Hollywood film Baywatch, scheduled for an April 2017 release.

Sussanne Khan, Gauri Shinde to be feted as women achievers

The Bollywood report card T ¡¡ NAVDEEP KAUR MARWAH

here have been around 25 films—both big budget and small budget—that have released in the first quarter of 2017 and the trade report card from January to March reveals that it has been a mixed bag. While films such as Raees, Badrinath Ki Dulhania, and Jolly LLB 2 managed to bring in moolah at the box office, there have been many disappointments as well. The first month saw the release of films such as Shah

Rukh Khan-starrer Raees, which was released along with Hrithik Roshan-starrer Kaabil. While Raees earned 100 crore at Box Office, Kaabil, although not in the 100-crore bracket,managed to earn profits at the box office. February saw the release of Akshay Kumar’s Jolly LLB2, which earned more than 100 crore and in March, it was Badrinath Ki Dulhania, which was a big hit, too. “The first quarter of this year has been better than the last year, which

"It's exciting to see animals out in the wild. You rarely get to see it. On the personal front, I've always had pets... be it dogs or cats," said Farhan for whom environment awareness is very important. "I would love to visit the northeast again. It's such a great place. The time when we were shooting 'Rock On 2' there... nature in that part of the world is just phenomenal. To be there and to be able to breathe all that fresh air would be amazing," he said. Also a singer, Farhan's next stop is Dehradun where he will perform on April 22.

is good for Bollywood. We had four films [that] earned more than 100 [crore], namely Raees, Kaabil, Badrinath Ki Dulhania, and Jolly LLB. Kaabil was only an average hit, considering its production cost. [It] recovered its investment with very fewer profits than expected,” trade analyst Amod Mehrasaid. One of the biggest disappointment for the quarter was Kangana Ranaut, Saif Ali Khan, and Shahid Kapoor-starrer Rangoon, which was touted to gross more than Rs 100 crore but failed

ntrepreneur Sussanne Khan and film director Gauri Shinde will be recognised as young women achievers by Young FICCI Ladies Organisation (YFLO). Sussanne, former wife of Bollywood star Hrithik Roshan, is a successful entrepreneur and interior designer herself, and adfilm and feature film director Gauri is known for helming English Vinglish. The annual YFLO Achiever Awards 2016-17 will be held at Hotel Lalit in central Delhi. Others who will be conferred awards include Malvika Poddar (fashion), Simran Lal (business), Kalli Purie (media), Shaina NC (politics), Deepa Malik (sports), Chiki Sarkar (literature), Preeti Chandra (community service), Bhavna Kakkar (art) and Vidha Lal (performing arts).

"YFLO, as a pan-India business organisation working towards the goal of women empowerment confers the young achievers awards to women who have excelled in different spheres of life and have created an impact through their stupendous work in the lives of others," said Trupti Gupta, Chairperson, YFLO.

Film: Box office collection Raess: 137.51 crore Jolly LLB 2: 116.92 crore Badrinath Ki Dulhania: 112.13 crore Kaabil: 103.84 crore

to make an impact at the box office. Talking about the same, trade analyst Atul Mohan says, “Rangoon can be considered an epic disaster. Once again, it proved that it is only a good script that works at box office and not just big names. On the other hand, Badrinath was the dark horse of this quarter and established that Varun Dhawan can make a film hit on his shoulders.” Looking forward, the next quarter looks promising with some big films ready to release including

Baahubaali 2. “There are some great films lined up in the coming quarter, and we can just hope for the best. The most anticipated of the lot is Baahubali: The Conclusion, which is set to release on April 28, 2017. Others to watch out include Vidya Balan’s Begumjaan, which is releasing on April 7 and Akshay’s Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, which is scheduled to release on June 2,” trade analyst Taren Adarsh said.

www.iwk.co.nz | 7 April 2017

I'm unapologetic about my

ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES

body, sexuality: Swara Bhaskar

wara Bhaskar is not afraid not worthy of societal respect to address issues on female in an obviously male-centric sexuality that Hindi film patriarchal world. So keeping that heroines generally brush under the vulnerability of Anaarkali alive, (red) carpet. The actress, whose was my real challenge. performance in the just-released Q. Was it difficult for you to Anaarkali Of Aarah, says portraying perform the raunchy dances the unapologetic nature of her and lip sync the doublecharacter in the film was not as meaning lyrics? How have challenging as it may seem. you managed to make the Swara plays a performer in a performance so free of village and her act is being hailed inhibition and vulgarity? as a breakthrough projection of a The difficult part was not so woman's right to decide when to say much the raunchiness of the yes or no – and she is overwhelmed. steps as just the live dancing. I've Excerpts from an interview: never done a proper Bollywood Q. Your performance in Anaarkali dance number. And even though Of Aaarah is spectacular. Would I've trained in Bharatanatyam, you say it is the most well-received Bollywood dancing as a form is performance of your career totally different. I think credit so far? should actually go to Shabina Khan for being able to keep the Yes I think so, and I must confess that I'm quite overwhelmed. choreography rustic and sensual and yet not vulgar. I think credit also Happily overwhelmed but still goes to my dance guru Padma overwhelmed. I had a lot of faith Shri Leela Samsonji, in the story, in Anarkali's Being whose rigorous journey and in the unapologetic training perhaps intention and spirit about my body, my enabled me to with which we made sexuality, my life’s perform raunchy, the film. I was hopeful decisions is a political bawdy and fairly that audiences will belief that as a overtly sensual connect with the tale feminist I strongly choreography but I didn't expect espouse. without it being this level of praise and cringe-worthy. such accolades. I feel both vindicated and blessed. Q. I believe the dances Q. How difficult was it for were shot in front of actual you to play a woman who is live audiences? so unapologetic about her Yes, while shooting sometimes sexuality and so unabashed the challenge became the all-male in her contempt for the lustful crowd, local to Amroha (where male gaze? we shot), who I think began to Honestly, the unapologetic enjoy the shoot as if it were a real nature of Anaarkali was not that show and passed those kinds of difficult, because that's how I feel comments –(smiles) some of those comments were pretty vulgar as a woman about my own body. and offensive but I reacted like Being unapologetic about my body, Anaarkali would. I believe shedding my sexuality, my life's decisions is a political belief that as a feminist I inhibitions is step 1 for any actor strongly espouse. What was difficult to get into any character, so that, I guess I did as part of my great faith for me and my real challenge was to preserve and express the fact in this script and this part. that however feisty Anaarkali may Q. This is an important film, seem, she is still vulnerable. perhaps extending further the idea that a woman saying Because ultimately she is a woman, and a woman considered no must be respected even if

she is part of an inherently disreputable profession. As a vocal supporter of gender equality and an opponent of patriarchal perversity, where do you place your character in this film? Absolutely. This was one of my non-negotiable requests to my director Avinash Das-ji when he was writing. We were certain that there will be no doubt about our intention and message in this film, that it doesn't matter what the woman does, what her character is, loose or slutty or whatever... She may be a prostitute, but even then consent is paramount. I think our bravest move was to make Anaarkali actually characterless or loose from the point of view of a middle class morality. We offer no explanation, apology or justification for the fact that she may have casual sex -- but on her own terms. That makes the whole question of consent totally non-negotiable. I think that is our greatest victory in this film. Q. Swara, your career has so far demonstrated an assertive will to choose the unconventional. Would it be correct to say the unconventional is the conventional for you? Perhaps! See as an actor, and moreover an outsider with no Godfather within the industry, I don't have a whole lot of control on what kind of roles are offered to me. But I can control what I choose. And I like to choose tough roles that I haven't done before and roles that make me grow as an actor by challenging me.. Q. As an outsider in Bollywood what has your journey so far been like? Have you encountered prejudice, bias, cynicism and how have you tackled them? It's been a pretty wholesome journey. Tough and disappointing in parts but also very fulfilling in parts, so a pretty complete experience of Navarasa in that sense.

Never intended to be a hero, but a credible actor: Manoj Bajpayee

anoj Bajpayee, who has proved his versatility as a performer on screen, says he never wanted to create an image like that of a mainstream Bollywood star. He was rather interested in establishing himself as a credible actor. Asked if he ever tried to create a screen image, Manoj said: “No, I never did... Because that was not my aim. I never intended to be a hero but a credible actor. I also think that my driving force as an actor is to experiment with different roles “So when I choose a script, I make sure I am attempting something that I have never done before.” Whether it was as a deadly gangster in Satya, police inspector in Shool, a cunning politician in Rajneeti, a prince in Zubeidaa or a homosexual professor in Aligarh – Manoj has showcased his acting prowess in these myriad roles and more. So how does he prepare for a role, especially when

Filmfare Awards, does he lead a good life? he is not familiar with the world of a fiction character? “Well, financially I am not a rich person, but I am doing good. I am leading a normal Bajpayee said: “I think I have had an life, doing something that I enjoy doing the interesting and colourful life journey where most - acting. I have met thousands of people from various walks of life. So whether a police officer, my “There was a time when I did some films friends, landlords, villagers, politicians or for money because I bought my house and school teachers – I have come across had to pay off my loans. many of them. “But I got very frustrated, so my wife I “Observing them has told me not to take up projects that I do think I have always given me an insight not believe in as that spoils domestic had an interesting of characterisation. No harmony,” he said with a smile. and colourful life one is a better teacher journey where I have Does winning awards motivate than life.” him to do better work? met thousands of Born and brought people from various “I feel humbled receiving awards, up in small village name walks of life so I thank them (who have honoured Belwa in Bihar, Manoj me), but I do not feel disheartened if I moved to Delhi and picked the don’t get it. nuances of acting at the National “The day my remuneration and number School of Drama. In his initial days as an of offered scripts will increase because of actor, he faced a struggle. my award, perhaps I will start bothering too Now almost 70 films later, and after much about that. Till now, a good story is bagging two National Awards and three motivational for me.”

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Situation Vacancy

¡¡Blockhouse Bay Looking for a new flatmate for fully-furnished home. Bus stop outside the house and supermarkets nearby. Rent $200. For more information txt 02108851027

¡¡Royal Oak Fully furnished bedroom is available in Royal Oak. Rent $230 for single and $260 for couple. All bills are included except food. Will have to share the place with three Indians. Walking distance from KFC, Macas, Pizza Hurt, Pak’n’Save and many more. Cotact on Ph:0211386760 for more details

¡¡Auckland CBD Rent$215 One room available in 2 bedroom apartment on Nelson Street, CBD. Rent is $215/week (Cold water included) so only $107.5 per person if two girls want to share it! For further details please PM or contact 0210582110.

¡¡Mt Eden One single room available at $200 including all water, power and Internet bills. Sharing 1 bathroom and kitchen with a couple and a lady. About 2 mins drive to Asian supermarket and 5 mins drive to countdown. 5 mins walk to Bus station. All furnished in the bedroom, kitchen and living room. Phone or text Victor 0211058294.

¡¡Part-time Accounts Administrator

West Auckland Location Part time role, supporting the accounts team. The hours are flexible, between 15-20 hours per week. If you have excellent communication skills, 2-3 years accounts experience and a professional work attitude, please contract Sarah Bailey or Melissa Farquhar on 09 666 0807 or Melissa@grahamconsulting.co.nz

¡¡Night Shift Worker Auckland CBD location Shift starts from 9.30pm-6.00am. Based in Central Auckland (ability to use public transport to and from work or parking available). If you are interested and can start ASAP call Kelly on 09 379 1381 or txt 0277069074.

¡¡ Inward Goods Person Permanent position | Rosedale location. Must have previous inwards goods experience and good communicator. Contact Catherine on 093033122 or email catherine.silberstein@kellyservices.com

CAB New Lynn

Date: Saturday, 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 Citizens Advice Bureau New Lynn. Phone 827 7830 or 827 4731, Email newlynn@cab.org.nz. Light refreshments will be provided.

CAB Pakuranga/ East Manukau

Date: Wednesday, April 12 Time: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Venue: Howick Local Board Meeting Room, Pakuranga Library Building, 7 Aylesbury Street, Pakuranga CAB Pakuranga/Eastern Manukau will hold a free information session for newcomers on Healthy Living and Mindfulness Awareness. This session will cover mindful breathing, benefits of mindfulness, and healthy lifestyle facilitated by Parvin Kapila, East Health Care. Light refreshments provided. Please confirm your by phoning or texting Vani Kapoor at 021 459250 or email at settlement.pakuranga@cab. org.nz

7 April 2017 | www.iwk.co.nz

Advertise for FREE

in the Indian Weekender Classified section. Email: sales@indianweekender.co.nz Vehicle For Sale

Situation Vacancy

¡¡Mitsubishi Colt 2006

¡¡Driver – Dominos Looking for part time driver in dominos .need to have own car and full license. any one need to contact me on 0228820049

¡¡Office Administrator Looking to hire a part time Office Administrator in Onehunga. Monday to Friday. Start time: 6.30am - 1.30pm For more information and details about the job, please pm myself or contact me direct on 027 967 5377

¡¡Warehouse Assistance

Looking for an experienced warehouse assistant for a warehouse in Albany. The role includes both data capturing, and assisting in the warehouse. $18.00 per hour + holiday pay. Monday to Friday 7:30am to 4.00pm. You must: • Entitled to work in NZ for 40 hours+ a week. • you’ll have Reliable Transport • Looking for long term temporary assignments • Have a clean criminal record If you have previous industrial experience and are physically fit- please email your CV to anna.pomeroy@kellyservices.com

Salman Khan’s Da-Bang, 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, actordancer-director Prabhu Deva, and rapper Badshah. Tickets are available on www.dabangnz2017.com and on Ticketmaster.co.nz.

Deep Peace Meditation: Acharya Das

Date: Wednesday, April 26 Time: 10:30 a.m. Venue: Vec Freyburg Room, Mt Roskill War Memorial Hall, 13 May Road, Mt Roskill The search for Peace and Happiness in a stressful world. Deep Peace Meditation hosts special guest speaker and respected international teacher of yoga wisdom and meditation Acharya Das. More information on 09 815 2585 and all are welcome. Free Event.

Wednesday 26th April 10.30am

Freyburg Room, Mt Roskill War Memorial Hall, 13 May Rd.

DEEP PEACE MEDITATION hosts special guest speaker

ALL WELCOME NO CHARGE

phone: 8152585

email: classes@nzsm.org.nz

www.meditationnewzealand.co.nz

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.

Price: $4,800 Mangere, New Zealand Great runner car, clean inside and outside, very good for family car, has currently WOF and rego drives smoothly and without problem, k’s 130xxx km, 1.5 litre cheap on gas, has smart key, has turbo engine. Most welcome for viewing and test drive the car. Contact 0211645296

¡¡2001 Opel - Holden Barina Prcie: $3,400 Manukau, New Zealand Only 110xxx kms ** $3400 offers !! WOF to Dec, REGO to June 1.4L Auto, 110xxx kms, Cambelt done, Quick & economic. Alloy wheels, A/C, 6CD stereo, spotlights, central locking. Excellent condition inside & out, everything works as it should. Finance Available, View in Manukau, info: https://m.facebook.com/story.php. Just email your ad’s content with your full details at sales@indianweekender.co.nz

Kiss the Sky

Date: Thursday, June 29 until Saturday, July 1 Time: 7:30 p.m. onwards Venue: Bruce Mason Centre, Takapuna Beach The New Zealand Dance Company forges its stellar reputation for choreographic mastery and extraordinary contemporary dance with the premiere of its 2017 triple bill Kiss the Sky, opening 29 June at the Bruce Mason Centre for four performances only. The season includes special opportunities to connect with The New Zealand Dance Company through an engaging “whole whanau” workshop and creative pre- and post-show talks.

D L SO

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