Indian Weekender 3 June 2016 by Indian Weekender

3 June, 2016 • Vol. 8 Issue 11 • www.iwk.co.nz

NZ’s first Kiwi-Indian weekly newspaper

The pulse of Kiwi-Indians

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CONTENTS

3 June 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

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New Zealand Industry leaders to address INZBC Summit 2016 Pg

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India abroad

Microsoft seeks to empower every Indian: Satya Nadella Pg

Sports

I am woman

Sunrisers Hyderabad clinch the IPL 2016 title

Three Kiwi women honoured at WEF 2016

Face of the week Theatre and beyond

Techmate In-car entertainment to be driven by your smartphone

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 June 2016

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Budget 2016: key highlights

Last week, Finance Minister Bill English delivered the National government’s eight Budget. We take a look at the key points discussed and its implications. Sanjay Kumar

Vidya Garimella

Business transformation

he National government’s eighth Budget, delivered on May 26 by Finance Minister Bill English, has the long game in mind. Revenue Minister Michael Woodhouse has secured a net $857 million to deliver a modern tax system over the next four years. A major business transformation is planned, aimed at making it easier for all New Zealanders to meet their obligations. As Woodhouse says, “It is important that our tax system keeps pace with changes in New Zealanders’ expectations and changing business models.” No one ever won a popularity poll by making it easier to pay out money but a great tax system does

matter for our economy. Updating our approach for the digital age is the right call. Woodhouse wants small businesses to be able to devote more time to business rather than tax. “Businesses will find that meeting tax obligations will become part of their normal processes, rather than a separate activity.”

a careful look at our international tax settings is the right approach for New Zealand.

Tax simplification for SMEs

Inland Revenue budget cuts

hat Woodhouse chooses not to emphasise is the extent to which the business transformation depends on finding savings from existing Inland Revenue budgets. Alongside the $857 million additional funding, Inland Revenue faces a $284 million by 2020. That saving will be recycled back into business transformation. What that means to the shape of the existing department isn’t yet clear. We think it will mean staff cuts. In five years’ time, the IRD is likely to look different with fewer document processing centres and fewer debt collectors and auditors,

and reduced corporate overheads as the result of increased digital and automated compliance.

A pound of fiscal flesh

t would be a mistake to ignore the main purpose of the tax system: to raise money. The government expects $250 million extra tax through better compliance as a result of the IRD’s business transformation. That revenue is kicking in from 2019 and English has already booked the money.

International tax

o changes yet, but we have been warned. English sets out his position in stark terms: “We are making further changes targeted at multinational companies.” He hasn’t specified what these changes will be but it is clear that information exchange is high on the list after the government’s recent signing of the multilateral competent authority agreement to apply a common reporting standard with other tax authorities. We were concerned we’d see a rushed reaction. Taking

he main SME tax package was announced in April 2016 as part of the wider business transformation programme. It includes a pay-as-you-go option for provisional tax for small businesses from 2018 onwards and eliminating or reducing useof-money interest for several taxpayers. Contractors can also choose a withholding rate, rather than having a rate set for them. New debt incurred from April 1, 2017 will not be subject to the one per cent monthly penalty but subject only to immediate penalties and interest charges for late payments. This package is expected to cost $187 million over the next four years. In summary, the government is focused on maintaining a healthy fiscal spending policy and allowing the economy to bubble along at a respectable 2.8% growth rate. Sanjay Kumar is an Executive Director and Vidya Garimella is a Senior Consultant at EY

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4 Investing in a growing economy NEW ZEALAND

3 June 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

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Rt Hon John Key Prime Minister, NZ

ast week, the National-led government delivered our eighth Budget. It’s a Budget all about investing in a growing economy and supporting families with new funding for infrastructure, innovation, health, and education. New Zealand’s economy is performing well. We are on track for rising surpluses and falling debt and solid economic growth of almost three per cent a year for the next few years. More than 200,000 jobs have been created over the past three years and a further 170,000 new jobs are forecast by 2020. By then, the average wage is expected to be $63,000 a year; that’s $16,000 more than when we came into government.

Budget 2016 is a forward-looking Budget that builds on the good progress we’ve made and invests in ensuring this strong growth continues. It also focuses on initiatives to strengthen communities.

Budget 2016 is a forwardlooking Budget that builds on the good progress we’ve made and invests in ensuring this strong growth continues. It also focuses on initiatives to strengthen communities. Health remains the number one funding priority, with an extra $2.2 billion investment into new health initiatives over four years, bringing next year’s health spend to a record $16.1 billion. This includes $96 million to deliver even more elective

surgeries so New Zealanders can live free from pain. It also delivers more money for Pharmac to fund more lifesaving medicines for New Zealanders, bringing its total budget next year to a record $850 million. Pharmac is independent but this extra funding will enable them to look at funding new treatments for advanced melanoma, Hepatitis C, and brain tumours. Budget 2016 also invests $39.3 million to start the roll out of a national bowelscreening programme, which will see 700,000 New Zealanders screened every two years once fully implemented. Around 3,000 New Zealanders are diagnosed with bowel cancer every year and it is one of our leading causes of death. National is committed to ensuring every child gets a great education. It provides the opportunity for any child from any background to get ahead and make the most of their lives. Budget 2016 invests an extra

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$1.4 billion into education over four years; bringing next year’s spending on childhood, primary and secondary education to a record $11 billion. This extra money will be used for a range of initiatives including building nine new schools and 480 new classrooms across the country, to fund 14,000 more children in early childhood education, and to ensure children with high and special needs get the support they need in the classroom. Budget 2016 also includes a $761 million Innovative New Zealand package for science, skills and regional development initiatives to help grow and diversify the economy. As a country, New Zealand is more confident and the economy is growing solidly. Budget 2016 invests in New Zealand’s future, while ensuring we continue to support New Zealand families by investing in the public services that matter to them.

Labour and Greens sign historic agreement to change the government commits them to working cooperatively to change the government including closer work at parliament and a possible joint policy announcement or campaign. “We are sending a clear signal to New Priyanca Radhakrishnan Zealanders who want a new and better Policy Council Member government that Labour and the Greens will work together to deliver that,” said he Labour Party and the Green Party Labour Party leader Andrew Little. have signed a historic agreement “It is our intent to build on this agreement to work cooperatively to change to offer New Zealanders the basis of a the government. The Memorandum of stable, credible and progressive alternative Understanding (MoU) between the parties government at the 2017 General Election. R R TCT DE C DE NN A A EK UU TR TR EEK “The MOU is a N N E W W CCOOtT hH 67 fresh start and a sign of 5514 newfound strength in our relationship and our FREEHOLD STRATA TITLE RESIDENCES OVERLOOKING LEAFY FREEMANS BAY mutual commitment to PROTECTED HARBOUR AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS changing the government. “When I was elected $698,000 LIVE / WORK Labour leader, I made APARTMENT + OFFICE + MEETING ROOM it clear that we would Join the world wide trend out of San Francisco of live and work lifestyle residences not go into another election without strong cooperation with likeminded parties to change OVERSIZED 2 BED $798,000 RESIDENCE the government. Today, LARGE OVERSIZED BALCONY I am delivering on • Open plan living • Spectaular sweeping views that promise. • Corner Residence “A new Labour-led government will focus on HIGH EXPOSURE $488,000 the critical issues facing SHOPS/SHOWROOMS our country. We will WIDE FRONTAGE provide better housing, • Benefit from many new residential developments in the close proximity health and education and • Massive Traffic showroom exposure to Motorway on ramp a cleaner environment while building a ONSITE DISPLAY SUITE SECURE ON A UNION OPEN DAILY sustainable economy $1000 DEPOSIT & CO 11am - 5pm, 15 - 17 UNION STREET NOTHING ELSE TO PAY UNTIL SETTLEMENT* PLENTY OF CARPARKING ONSITE with decent jobs,” said Andrew Little. W W W. U N I O N C O. C O. N Z It is not a coalition DISCLAIMER: *Subject to approval by Home Bond New Zealand Limited of a Development Homebond security, the value of the required deposit, over a purchaser’s existing property. +Please refer to view disclaimer on agreement because it Marketing Material. No responsibility is accepted for the accuracy of the information contained herein or for any action taken in reliance thereon. Prospective purchasers are encouraged to seek legal, technical or other advice to satisfy themselves on all aspects. Details and statements contained herein do not constitute any representation ends on election night. by the vendor or by the agents and are excluded from any agreement for sale and purchase. Changes may be made during development including to dimensions, finishes, fittings and specifications without notice. However, the MoU

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is a brilliant move because there were perceptions of tensions between Labour and the Greens in the lead up to the last election. Voters who wanted a change in government did not believe that there was a credible alternative on the Left for various reasons including the perceived tensions. The MoU between these two parties sends a strong message that there is a united, credible and viable alternative government-in-waiting. Both parties have renewed leadership and the relationship between the two is strong. In an MMP environment, we have to work together strategically to change the government’s agenda. The MoU is a strong indication of the level of cooperation and political maturity of both parties. It is not a coalition agreement or a merger. Labour and the Greens remain two distinct parties with different histories, viewpoints and ideas. Labour and the Greens may

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still disagree on specific policies at times, and that is healthy in an MMP environment. The MoU means that we will stand together to hold the government to account in the lead up to the 2017 General Election. Andrew Little has also made it clear that this is not necessarily a monogamous relationship. Nobody knows what Winston Peters will want to do come election time, but this MoU doesn’t prevent Labour from working with any other party. So far Winston Peters has not vetoed working with either party, and I feel his anti-Greens rhetoric has toned down considerably. Also, a number of New Zealand First activists have openly held the opinion, on social media, that the MoU is beneficial if NZF is serious about wanting to change the government. As Labour celebrates its centenary this year, we hold on to our values and our proud political history. We will enter into the election year with confidence knowing that we have provided a level of transparency that voters have been asking for and that we continue to stand for the values and principles we have always stood for—social justice, equity, equality of opportunity and outcomes. We have always advocated for wealth distribution that benefits all people and not just those at the top of the socioeconomic ladder. Voters can rest assured that the MoU will not change any of that. It’s not about us moving away from what we stand for; it’s an official announcement of cooperation to change the government. “New Zealanders who want a better future now have crystal clear clarity about what they are getting with their vote, we are a vote for change,” said Green Party coleader Metiria Turei. “It is time for a government that puts the wellbeing of people and the environment at the centre of everything it does,”she said.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 June 2016

The deafening silence of a pretend Budget

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Barry Coates Green Party

nother budget has come and gone, leaving little trace other than empty rhetoric. The headlines were all about the next tax cut, but we see the evidence around us of deterioration in our public life—soaring house prices and rents, traffic congestion, polluted rivers, rising greenhouse gas emissions and too many children in poverty, missing out on opportunities in life. This is not the New Zealand that we want. This Budget pretended to solve the housing crisis, but instead it just blamed someone else—in this case, the Auckland Council. There was no plan to deal with the crisis that has left people homeless, sleeping in garages or cars, or going into debt for emergency housing. There was no decision to stop the sell-off of state houses or to use the profits from Housing New Zealand for building affordable houses. There was no protection for people living in damp and unhealthy homes; in fact, the budget drastically cut the home insulation programme. The environment fared just as badly. Last December, the government signed the Paris Agreement on climate change and

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pretended to care about the environment, but the Budget did little to reduce record levels of greenhouse gas emissions, with only minor changes to the ineffective and fraudulent Emissions Trading Scheme. The tiny budget to clean up rivers was opened up to further funding for irrigation schemes, and the core budget of our overworked and demoralised Department of Conservation was slashed. New Zealand can do better, and we have done better in the past. We have had governments that were the first in the world to give votes for women, pioneered public health and education systems, declared an independent foreign policy and built affordable state houses when we needed them. Unfortunately, this government has run out of ideas. We need change. There are important priorities for this budget that have been neglected. The Green Party stands for fair taxation that ensures that speculators, wealthy individuals and multinational companies pay their share of taxes. We stand for a peoplefocused economy that provides support and opportunities to all children. We will invest in our future, by making housing affordable, reducing traffic congestion and supporting innovation. And we are committed to a clean environment and a transition to a low emissions economy. We can build a better future.

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3 June 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

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Industry leaders to address INZBC Summit 2016 Stuart Gordon,

IWK Bureau

ore than 300 global business leaders and stakeholders will come together on June 13 for a first of its kind summit on agritech, being held by INZBC in partnership with New Zealand National Fieldays. The event, which is open to public, has an interesting line-up of speakers from both New Zealand and India. Some of them include:

Dr Rattan Sagar Khanna,

Director, Kwality Dairy (India) Ltd r Rattan Sagar Khanna is the Director General, Ganesh Scientific Research Foundation New Delhi. He has served as the Consultant to the Government of India, Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries, Ministry of Agriculture and helped the Department frame policy issues concerning animal husbandry and dairy development. He is Council Member and Consultant, Gerson Lehrman Group, New York, USA. He is Independent Director on the Board of Kwality Dairy (India) Ltd., New Delhi. Dr Khanna is also a CEC Member of Indian Dairy Association (IDA).

CEO, Waikato Innovation Park Ltd and Food Waikato tuart is an experienced commercial chartered accountant. During a term as Financial Controller at New Zealand Dairy Group he managed the acquisition of the fresh milk, which became Fonterra. After a period as an agriculture business consultant, Stuart joined Waikato Innovation Park as global business development director travelling to developing dairy industries around the world to identify opportunities for New Zealand agri-technology.

Alan Pollard,

CEO, Pipfruit New Zealand lan was appointed Chief Executive of Pipfruit New Zealand in March 2012. A Chartered Accountant, his career spans both central government and professional service organisations. He has managed some of New Zealand’s largest law firms, including being a part of the team that put together the first trans-Tasman law firm merger.

Sanjeev Asthana,

Chairman, Agriculture Skill Council of India ith more than 25 years of experience in India and internationally,

Sanjeev is the Founder and Managing Partner of I-Farm Venture Advisors, Chairman of Agriculture Skill Council of India and National Skills Foundation of India (NSFI), and serves on the Board of Directors of NCDEX Spot Exchange Ltd and Chairs the Governing Board of Access Development Services. He works closely at policy level with government and international institutions such as UNICEF and World Bank.

Victoria Hallum,

Manager of International Policy and Partnerships, Callaghan Innovation ictoria is Manager of International Policy and Partnerships at Callaghan Innovation. Her team fosters international connections for Callaghan Innovation and the businesses it works with. The international team at Callaghan Innovation is also interested in strategic partnerships with international innovation organisations and networks.

Nick Dromgool,

General Manager, Commercial, New Zealand National Fieldays Society ick has held the position of General Manager Commercial for the NZ National Fieldays Society since December 2011. He looks after the marketing,

customer, sponsorship and international areas of the business. Nick has previously worked in the Kiwifruit industry, NZ Dairy Group, Wrightson Seeds and PGGW Seeds. As an independent contractor, Nick developed the ‘Salad in a Bag’ for Turners and Growers in 1993, an achievement he is extremely proud of.

Brett O’Riley,

Chief Executive, ATEED rett has held senior management positions for more than 20 years, most recently for Ministry of Science and Innovation before being appointed to the ATEED Chief Executive role. His business experience covers a vast array of topics including major change projects and developments in the ICT industry, driving a step change in the performance of the New Zealand science and innovation eco-system, and direct involvement with tourism and major events, both in New Zealand and overseas. Tickets are on sale now at www. inzbusinesssummit.com. The event will take place on June 13 at The Langham, Auckland. With a impressive line-up, the INBZC summit is a must-visit for industry enthusiasts.

Auckland observes Turban Day Rizwan Mohammad

nspired by the Turban Day celebrations in the United States and Norway, Sikh Youth NZ organised Auckland Turban Day on May 28 at Aotea Centre. The event, which took place from noon to 3 p.m., was a hit among Aucklanders. It was a day to educate people and celebrate the significance of wearing a turban. There have been recent instances where Sikhs wearing turbans have been victims of discrimination. Volunteers distributed flyers and encouraged individuals to try on a turban. Many stopped by merely at the sight of the colourful turbans. Inspired by the enthusiastic gathering, they enquired about the event and even tried on the turban. “It was delightful to watch so many people wearing differentcoloured turbans. From a distance, it looked like some kind of celebration and it indeed is. I couldn’t stop myself from being away from the gathering, now I am sporting this red turban and it is looking amazing,” said Ola from Germany who was passing by with his friends from Britain and

Scotland. Auckland Turban Day was conceptualised and planned a month ago, and the organisers used every small platform to promote the event. Information about the event spread quickly through Facebook, posters in Gurudwaras, supermarkets and through word of mouth. “We really didn’t have high expectations from the event, but we were positive that we can make a mark. We made arrangements for 150–200 people but more than 300 people have visited, which was outstanding. The visitors who came forward to try the turban also enquired more about Sikhism and the concept behind turbans,”

said Amrita, Harvin and Harveen, the organisers of the event. The event was so popular that it was featured on News Hub with John Campbell on Radio New Zealand, Auckland Live, and many other newspapers in Auckland. Visitors patiently sat on the picnic chairs looking amused

Aucklanders celebrate Turban Day organised by Sikh Youth NZ at Aotea Centre. The event aimed at informing and educating people about Sikhism and the significance of wearing a turban.

at the mirror while one of the volunteers tied the turban on their head. What came after tying the turban was a beaming smile, host of selfies and snapshots with the volunteers and friends. Visitors irrespective of their faith, beliefs and ethnicity volunteered to try the turban and encouraged each other too. “I often go to Gurudwaras, sit down for langar and sit during the kirtans. I have visited Gurudwaras in New Zealand andScotland and in Amritsar, Shimla, and Jalandhar in India,” mentioned Scottish descent, Mikey Beban. Mikey proudly sported a T-Shirt with the Khanda (Sikh symbol) print on it, a kara on his left tattooed arm and a blue turban wishing everyone Sat Sri Akaal in his accent. Mikey was more like a celebrity at the venue as many thronged to speak to him and take selfies and snaps. The turbans were purchased, donated and sponsored by individuals to be used at the event. By late afternoon, people started sharing turbans as they began to run out. The event concluded with a big photo shoot with the volunteers and the visitors.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 June 2016

Melbourne’s Southbank— the place to be

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Live or invest in the heart of Melbourne’s international address elbourne is the world’s most liveable city and Southbank is central to the city’s cosmopolitan lifestyle. Home to Melbourne’s finest arts, entertainment, parks and cultural institutions, it is no surprise that Southbank is now a soughtafter suburb to live in with a rapidly growing population. Strategically located, Southbank is a short walk to the Central Business District—Melbourne’s centre for employment and shopping. Excellent public transport links provide easy access to nearby points of interest and the broader Melbourne metro area. With one of the highest concentrations of arts and cultural organisations in the world, Southbank is a hive of creative energy. Residents and visitors thrive on the endless opportunities to enjoy galleries and exhibitions, performances and theatre. The Arts Centre, National Gallery of Victoria, the Royal Botanical Gardens and the Melbourne Recital Centre are all in Southbank as is the Crown Casino and Entertainment complex with its endless dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The upmarket Southgate plaza on the Yarra River has a wide array of cafes, bar and shopping options. To top it off, Southbank is also distinguished by its access to some of Melbourne’s best schools and tertiary institutions and medical facilities. Central Equity is a major Australian developer and has completed more than 70 inner-city projects. The company is set to host their popular Melbourne Property Expo and Information Sessions in Auckland from Thursday, June 9 to Sunday, June 12. Conveniently held at the Pullman Hotel Auckland (Corner Princes St and Waterloo Quadrant) attendees can find out about purchasing and managing a property from a distance.

There will also be a Melbourne property lawyer in attendance to answer individual questions. New Zealand nationals are able to purchase new property in Australia and Central Equity apartments are approved for sale to overseas buyers. FIRB application fees are not applicable. Available spaces are expected to fill fast so book now to reserve your seat (details below). Central Equity’s latest Melbourne project, Southbank Place, represents the culmination of more than 30 years of company experience and is located in the heart of Southbank where the developer is responsible for more than 50% of the neighbourhood’s residential apartments. Situated on a prominent corner, Southbank Place Apartments will provide 52 levels of stylish modern city living. Spacious 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments are characterised by intelligent layouts, contemporary finishes and light filled living areas. Buyers that require extra space will be amazed by the selection of spacious apartments and penthouses available. Southbank Place will include spacious three bedroom apartments up to 258sqm and generous 2 bedroom apartments plus study up to 105sqm. A variety of one bedroom plus study apartments around 55sqm suitable for professional singles and couples are also available. The upper levels feature a range of expansive penthouses. Preview a range of spacious 1, 2 and 3 bedroom Southbank Place apartments priced from $459,000. Non-resident purchasers should act now as the Victorian Govt surcharge increases on 1st July 2016. Non Resident buyers at Southbank Place can save up to $98,000 in Victorian Government stamp duty (off the plan) and surcharge prior to 1 July 2016. Reserve your seat now! Call Mansi Patel on the Auckland hotline: 0800 002 306 or visit melbourneproperty.co.nz

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Everest Day observed in Christchurch

Moksh Movies brings South Indian films to Christchurch

Mark Inglis and Wayne Alexander honoured

Gaurav Sharma

elebrated in memory of the first successful ascent of Mount Everest on May 29, 1953, by New Zealander Sir Edmund Hillary and Nepalese Tenzing Norgay, the ninth International Everest Day (started in 2008) was observed in Christchurch the past weekend. The event was jointly organised by the Non-Resident Nepali Association New Zealand (NRNANZ), Nepal NZ Friendship Society of Canterbury, and Canterbury Nepalese Society (CNS). While Nepalese song and dance

The seed of this wonderful relationship between our two countries were sowed when those two great mountaineers set foot on Sagarmatha (local name for Mount Everest) together. Since that day, the bond has grown even stronger sequences also featured during the evening, the highlight was Mark Inglis, the first double-amputee to summit the highest peak in the world, and Wayne Alexander, who accompanied him during the recordbreaking ascent, noting their connection with Nepalese people and the shared bond between the two countries. Amy Adams, Minister for Justice and Communications, was the chief guest. The gathering observed a minute’s silence in memory of those perished during last year’s earthquake in Nepal. “Earlier in the day, a Walk for Nepal was organised in Christchurch’s CBD to raise money for women health issues back home,” informed Bishnu Pokhrel, President of CNS. Pokhrel, who works in the mental health issues of refugees and migrants with the District Health Board added, “The seed of this wonderful relationship between our two countries were sowed when those two great mountaineers set foot on Sagarmatha (local name for Mount Everest) together. Since that day, the bond has grown even stronger.” A sentiment shared by Sagar

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unhealthy due to abundance of oil and ghee. Thus it is important to be careful and keep a check on what, how and when we eat, especially for Indians. The interest shown by the community at our last diabetes event prompted us to carry forward the [conversation] and focus on healthy eating this time,” said Sandeep Sachdev, ICG President. The health awareness series will conclude with ICG

oksh Movies—a distribution and exhibition company led by Ramana, a producer at Apna TV, New Zealand’s first 24/7 free-to-air Indian entertainment channel— is bringing South Indian films to Christchurch Part one of ICG’s health awareness series was on Diabetes at Hollywood Cinema Conversation Map in Sumner. marking the International Yoga “As I come from Andhra Day (IYD) on Sunday, June 19 Pradesh, we started with Telugu in collaboration with the Indian films including the super-hit High Commission. This will be the Sardar Gabbar Singh featuring second celebration of IYD in the actor Pavan Kalyan. city after the adoption of June 21 “Now we are also showcasing as International Day of Yoga by Kannada films with plans to the UN General Assembly in 2014. bring Tamil and Malayalam films too very soon. With increased immigration from South India, we have found increased demand for our movies even [in] South of Christchurch (Sardar Gabbar Singh was screened in Metro aking cue from their Cinema in Dunedin),” said elders and the efforts Ramana. He also shared his plans put in by organisations to reach Hindi-speaking audiences such as the Christchurch Fiji in New Zealand by re-shooting Association, young Fijians from popular Hindi tele-serials such Christchurch have mobilised as Sony TV’s CID, which will be support and rations over the last telecasted on Apna TV.

Fiji youth responds to Cyclone Winston appeal

Top: Attendees listen to Wayne Alexander as he recounts his experiences Above: Mark Inglis, the first double-amputee to summit Mount Everest addressing the gathering

Pandey, President of Nepal NZ Friendship Society of Canterbury, and Babu Raja Maharjan, President of NRNANZ, who owns a fire alarm business in Auckland. “When Hillary and Norgay came down from Everest, a massive rally was organised in Nepal in the first week of June in their honour, which was attended by almost 60,000 people. Sir Edmund Hillary never forgot that affection. Probably, that’s why he treated Nepal as his second home,” Maharjan said. Concluding by giving details about NRNANZ, he added, “Our organisation has 73 chapters globally, with ours in New Zealand a prominent one. With help from our friends in New Zealand, we want Nepal to progress economically so as to embark on a path of self-reliance, self-confidence and self-respect.”

ICG’s Health

awareness series continues

arrying forward its three-part health awareness series catering to the Indian community in Christchurch, the city-based Indian Cultural Group (ICG) is organising a free healthy eating conversation map on June 13 at the Upper Riccarton library in Christchurch. “Indian food, though widely popular all over the world by virtue of our spices, can also be very

Students in Fiji receiving aid

few months to help kids affected by Cyclone Winston. “Along with 65 boxes of donations, we raised almost NZ$2,000 that was used to buy stationery, which I personally went and distributed in five badly-affected schools in the Tavua and Rakiraki region of Fiji,” said Alvina Lal, a 19-year-old who hails from Suva and helped in mobilising the aid.

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Heralding the auspicious month of Ramadan

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amadan, the holy month for the Muslim community, commences on Tuesday, June 7, on the sighting of the moon. Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar that comes after Shabaan. The holy book Quran was revealed to the human in this blessed month. Muslims around the world observe this month by abstaining from food from dawn to dusk and break their fast on the call of adhaan (call for prayer) at sunset. There is more to Ramadan than just abstinence from food and water. Fasting is obligatory to every adult (11 years and above or after attaining puberty) exempting sick, travellers, mentally challenged, pregnant, and menstruating women. The idea behind fasting is to control oneself from activities that give one worldly pleasures such as food, water, entertainment and sexual intercourse during daybreak. Fasting gives an individual the essence of piety, their submission to the will of Allah and a path to purify their heart and soul. During the day, a fasting adult is advised to invest more time in praying, reading Quran and spend a majority of their time remembering Allah. The Quran was revealed in

this month to guide humans to the path of righteousness and give a dimension to one’s spiritual needs. Ramadan is divided into three Ashuras (parts of 10 days each): Rahmat (mercy of Allah), Maghfirat (forgiveness of Allah) and Nijaat (salvation). Each of the Ashura has separate duas (prayers) that Muslims should recite with full devotion and serenity. It is also mentioned in the hadith by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) that reward for all the good deeds done in this month are multiplied 70 times. Different aspects of Ramadan Sehri (meal before dawn): It is the sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to take a

light meal before dawn or before starting the fast. The pre-dawn meal is highly recommended so that individuals fasting do not get exhausted of hunger and thirst at the end of fasting. At Sehri, it is advised to have at least a date with water and if available, a nominal meal. Iftar (breaking the fast at dusk): At the call of adhaan, people break their fast by having a date, fruits, and other foods. Different cultures around the world bring varied kinds of food on the table, as there is no such restriction on food items except it to be halal. It is also advised to share Iftar with individuals and families invite non-Muslims to be a part of the Iftar meal as a gesture of good

faith and brotherhood. Almost all the mosques across the globe make Iftar arrangements at their premises to serve to the people fasting and travellers. Taraweeh (special evening prayers): In Islam, a believer has to observe obligatory prayers five times and a special congressional prayer on Fridays. During Ramadan, a special prayer is held post evening prayers (Isha prayer) called Taraweeh in which long portions of the Quran is recited. Taraweeh is held in every mosque throughout the month until the moon is sighted for Eid-ul-Fitr. Lailatul Qadr (the night of decree): The odd nights of the last Ashura called Lailatul Qadr is considered to be the holiest of the whole month. It is believed that the Holy Quran was unveiled to Prophet Muhammad in one of the five odd nights. Believers pray all night long on those nights asking for forgiveness for their sins as the night is considered to be better than a thousand nights (83 years and four months). Fasting brings humility and tranquillity among individuals. It gives them the opportunity to live the life of the lesser fortunate, people who are deprived of food and other luxuries of the world. Fasting drives an individual closer to his spiritual self and the creator, as it tests their patience for the basic need of life, food, and water.

Renowned flautist Rakesh Chaurasia set to perform in Auckland IWK BUREAU

fter an overwhelming response last year, Sargam Fusion returns this year for an evening of Indian classical and fusion music. Co-presented by Old Fort restaurant, the event will held on June 24 at the Auckland Town Hall and will witness a performance by renowned flautist Rakesh Chaurasia, who will be accompanied by a NZ band. The impressive line-up of artists include Ashish Ramakrishnan, Akhila Puthigae and Seetha Jandhyala on vocals, Basant Madhur and Akhil Madhur on tabla, Rushabh Trivedy on keyboard, Ahi Karunaharan on the piano, Swap Gomez on drums, Ravi Nyayapati on percussions, Rob Mita on bass guitar, Krissy Jackson on violin and a classical dance performance by Ratna Venkat. Chaurasia, nephew and disciple of Padma Vibhushan Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia, is not a new name for the Auckland audience. His previous concert held in 2013 was attended by more than 800 people. The much anticipated concert has sold more than half of the tickets. To grab one, visit www. ticketmaster.co.nz. Contact Basant Madhur on 021-0357954 for more info.

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Tobacco Excise Bill passes Maximising FTA all stages implementation

he Associate Health Minister Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga says the passing of a Bill to increase the tobacco excise will save lives and prevent young people taking up a deadly smoking habit. The Customs and Excise (Tobacco Products-Budget Measures) Amendment Bill passed through all stages in Parliament on May 27. The Bill increases the excise tax on tobacco by 10 per cent per annum for the next four years, from January 1, 2017. “Smoking is a relentless killer. But it is a deadly habit we can do something about. We need to use every measure to stop people smoking and deter others from starting. Increasing the price is the single most effective tool to do that,” Mr Lotu-Iiga says. Smoking rates have dropped. 550,000 adult New Zealanders aged over 15 still smoke daily. “Smoking remains one of the biggest causes of premature death in New Zealand,” Mr Lotu-Iiga says.

“Twelve people die each day from smoking related illness. 4,500 to 5,000 people die each year. That is like the entire population of a town like Foxton being wiped out by smoking,” Mr Lotu-Iiga says. “About 85 per cent of people who die from lung cancer are smokers. They also die from heart disease; from stroke; from emphysema and from cancer of the mouth, pharynx and oesophagus. All because of smoking.” Mr Lotu-Iiga says smoking related illness is a huge cost to the country as well as to individuals, their families and whanau. “Increasing the excise on tobacco

creates a strong incentive to quit and disincentives for those contemplating smoking, and in particular young people.” “The price of a standard pack of 20 cigarettes will likely increase from around $20 now to around $32 in 2020.” Mr Lotu-Iiga says the government has a range of packages aimed at reducing smoking rates such as Quitline, media campaigns and face to face support programmes. “Together with increasing prices, these are effective at reducing smoking and saving lives in New Zealand,” Mr Lotu-Iiga says.

he 2016 Budget invests an additional $4.6 million over four years into FTA (Free Trade Agreement) implementation. Trade Minister Todd McClay says this new investment will support New Zealand businesses in extracting full value from New Zealand’s network of FTA Agreements. “New Zealand currently has FTAs with economies that account for more than half our trade. This will increase to 70 per cent once the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) enters into force. “New Zealand has scored high quality FTAs, but the benefits come from Kiwi businesses taking advantage of them. Ensuring businesses have the information and tools for this to happen requires ongoing, coordinated cross government FTA implementation work. “This new investment will support the development of new

tools to help business understand and use FTAs. Our tariff finder, for example, has made it a lot easier for SMEs to identify the FTA that gives them the best competitive edge in their export markets. “This new money will also help us get improved commitments in FTAs when these come up for review, such as in services, investment, and addressing nontariff barriers that exporters face. “This is particularly important as new FTAs come on line. That’s why for example under TPP we have committed to 18 roadshows and Hui around the country to help businesses prepare for its entry into force, and have developed practical online resources for all New Zealanders. “There is a lot of information for businesses, as they plan for export growth. We want them well equipped to identify and seize new opportunities under all FTAs,” says Mr McClay.

New Customs officers to protect border

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ustoms Minister Nicky Wagner congratulated 25 new Customs officers who will help to manage increasing travel volumes at the border. “The new officers are a welcome addition at Auckland airport as travellers to New Zealand continue to grow,” Ms Wagner said. “By 2019, Customs is expected to process 12.7 million travellers per year—20% more than 2015. “Customs’ new recruits have just completed an intensive training course designed to support world class border management operations. “The recruits have come to us with a diverse range of skills and experience. They

are the perfect fit and will be helping us to put the customer at the centre of service delivery while protecting our borders. “While technology plays a major part in passenger processing Customs officers will always be the most important part of New Zealand’s frontline. I congratulate our newest Customs officers and welcome them to the team,” Ms Wagner says.

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New three-year strategy to address gambling harm

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ssociate Health Minister Peter Dunne has released an updated three-year strategy to prevent and minimise the harm that can result from gambling. “The latest plan aims to build on the work done in more recent years which has resulted in a reduction in risk factors for gambling harm. “For example the number of adults engaging in multiple forms of gambling has reduced, as has the number of adults participating in monthly EGM gambling. “Going right back to when the first national gambling study was conducted in 1991, there has been a higher prevalence of gambling harm among Māori and Pacific peoples. “This updated strategy includes a longterm priority action to develop, pilot, evaluate and implement one or more initiatives specifically focused on reducing persistent gambling harm-related health inequities,” Mr Dunne says. The $55.3 million Strategy to Prevent and Minimise Gambling Harm is funded by the problem gambling levy. The overall funding remains the same as in the current three-year period, based on an assessment that needs remain largely unchanged since 2012. The three-year package includes: • $25.4 million for front-line intervention services to help people who are experiencing harm, including people

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harmed by their own gambling and people harmed by someone else’s gambling. This money funds a range of services at a national, regional and local level, including face-to-face services, dedicated Mâori, Pacific, and Asian services, and helpline services. • $20.4 million for public health services, particularly activities raising community awareness about gambling and problem gambling and the actions people can take to prevent and minimise gambling harm • $6.6 million for research and evaluation

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A budget only for the privileged few? David Shearer Labour MP

ast week, New Zealand’s annual budget was unveiled by the government. Those of us who were hoping for investment in basic services such as health, education, and alleviating the housing crisis were once again disappointed. Perhaps the worst aspect of the budget for me was the way the government effectively froze the operating budget for many of our schools. That’s the money schools need simply to run, pay their teachers, and buy the things they need to

educate our children. This freeze is likely to force schools to ask Kiwi families for more money. That’s a big step backwards for New Zealand. Free education is in our DNA. It’s an achievement New Zealanders have been rightly proud of for generations. We’ve been the envy of the world for the quality education we offer every single child. And at a time like this, when inequality is growing in our society, we need it more than ever. The day after the budget, a national newspaper wrote: “Gone are the days of a free education.” I hope they were not correct. Labour’s education policies are much more ambitious than that. We believe

education should be truly free. Our policies continue to echo Prime Minister Peter Fraser’s great words, spoken in 1939: “The government’s objective, broadly expressed, is that all persons, whatever their ability, rich or poor, whether they live in town or country, have a right as citizens to a free education of the kind for which they are best fitted and to the fullest extent of their powers.” We think that’s a vision worth fighting for. The days of a quality, free education in New Zealand don’t have to be over. Amid all the political rhetoric of the year, the annual budget is a time when we see in black and white where the government’s true loyalties really lie.

Education wasn’t the only area in which we were disappointed. Our health service is $50 million a year short of what’s needed just to keep up with population growth and inflation. We are going backwards in health and there will be even fewer specialist appointments and operations available for those who need them. At a time when housing has become so unaffordable that we’re facing our first proper homelessness epidemic, there was no decisive action on housing. What we got instead was a budget that will help only the privileged few at the top, leaving most New Zealanders, and our children, worse off than before.

A stronger, more prosperous New Zealand Kanwaljit Bakshi National List MP

ational is focused on continuing to build a stronger, more prosperous New Zealand. Thanks to our responsible management and the hard work of New Zealanders, our economy is performing well. There are more jobs, higher incomes, and we’re providing essential services and support New Zealand families’ need. Budget 2016 invests in a growing economy with significant new funding for innovation, infrastructure, the health sector, and the most vulnerable while still managing the finances tightly and repaying debt. Budget 2016 presented a healthy set of public accounts with rising surpluses and falling debt, on the back of an economy forecast to grow at around three per cent on

average over the next few years, supporting more jobs and higher incomes. Only a handful of developed economies enjoy such a positive outlook. This is a Budget that invests in a growing economy. In particular, it supports four significant measures. First is a $761 million investment in science, skills, and regional development, which we’ve called the Innovative New Zealand package. Second is a $2.1 billion infrastructure programme that focuses on transport, schools, and the investment needed to deliver a modern, flexible tax system. Third is a Social Investment package providing $652 million more to support vulnerable New Zealanders and help them live better lives. Finally, we are making a sizeable investment in the health sector, which receives an additional $2.2 billion over the next four years to ensure New Zealanders continue to have access to high-quality healthcare. Our eighth Budget shows modest surpluses in the next two years, rising to $6.7 billion in 2019/2020. More than 200,000 more people are in work now

than three years ago and another 170,000 new jobs are expected by 2020. The annual average wage has been increasing at twice the rate of inflation. By 2020, it will have grown a further $5,000 to $63,000. Over that period, the unemployment rate is expected to drop to 4.6 per cent. Strong population growth is both an indicator of New Zealand’s economic performance and a contributor to it. We’ve seen a significant reduction in the number of New Zealanders heading across the Tasman to live. We’re continuing to see inflation stay lower for longer than expected. This is good news for consumers and workers because their incomes go a bit further and they get good value for any

pay rises. But it is a challenge for the government because it suppresses growth in our revenue. Certainly, times are challenging for our dairy farmers, who are finishing another season facing depressed prices. But elsewhere, New Zealand is reaping the benefits of an increasingly diversified economy. Total exports increased by almost $2 billion last year despite the fall in dairy exports. Tourism, the beef sector, ICT, wine and much of the manufacturing sector are all performing well. The government’s fiscal priorities continue to be maintaining rising surpluses, reducing net debt to around 20 per cent of GDP by 2020, and if economic and fiscal conditions allow, beginning to reduce income taxes and using any further fiscal headroom to reduce debt faster. The surplus target last year was useful in helping us turn the government’s books around. Having achieved that, our focus is now shifting towards debt repayment to ensure New Zealand is well placed to deal with future economic shocks or natural disasters.

Budget: the government is not listening Winston Peters NZ First leader

his government is simply not listening. The real problem we face now as a country is that so many of the middle-income and working people are quickly becoming poor. There is a big elephant in the room that this Budget barely acknowledges. Record immigration—adding another 68,000 people a year. The health, education, welfare, transport and other infrastructure

costs that record immigration is adding are hardly mentioned in this bogus Budget. Similarly, the police are chronically underfunded. Crime under National pays. If you are a victim, National’s message to you is Get Stuffed. Engineering a surplus is easy when core services are underfunded, expenditure commitments delayed. The manipulation of the public finances is now so gross and shameless as to render any claims to balancing the books or reaching a surplus as hollow. Under this government, New Zealand is fracturing into two camps—Auckland and the rest Auckland is choking. Every day as they travel to work, Aucklanders confront the worsening traffic congestion clogging their city. The government’s failure with respect

to Auckland is matched by its neglect of the regions. At the official 5.7% unemployment, there are almost 150,000 unemployed New Zealand. Then there are another 100,000 people who have jobs but are underemployed and would like to work more. The number of 15–24-year-olds who are not in employment, education or training rose and is now around 80,000. There’s a massive hole in the housing. An entire generation of young New Zealanders is locked out of the housing market in their own country because of soaring house prices. Large numbers of people are under intense housing stress; they are living in garages and other make-shift accommodation. This

is appalling. Foreign speculators have had an open door to help themselves to NZ housing stock. Nothing better illustrates National’s failure to rebalance the economy than the ongoing current account deficit, which was running at $7.7 billion in the 2015 calendar year. New Zealand now owes the rest of the world $150 billion. We see a global economy that is struggling with weak and fragile growth. New Zealand First’s view is that we must urgently strengthen our economy and reduce our vulnerability to an external shock. Nothing in this Budget will deliver sustainable prosperity for New Zealanders.

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The City Rail Link bringing Auckland together

uckland is growing at a rate of one new resident every 20 minutes and urgently needs a transport system that moves people faster and more easily. Rail trips have increased from 2.2 million trips a year to more than 16 million, but further growth is limited because Britomart can’t take more than 20 trains an hour. In addition, the city is over capacity for buses coming into the city along Symonds Street.

City Rail Link (CRL): unlocking Auckland’s network The CRL will unlock the city’s rail capacity, doubling the number of trips an hour during peak times and providing a train every 10 minutes for most Auckland stations. It will allow 30,000 people to travel every hour during peak time. In comparison, a single motorway lane can carry only 2,400 people an hour. By allowing trains to run both ways through Britomart, Auckland Transport can create more frequent bus and ferry connections with bus feeder routes into key bus/train interchanges. More people using trains and buses means more road space will be freed up for those who need to drive. Improved accessibility, particularly to the city centre, is the key to Auckland’s economic growth. Connecting Auckland “The City Rail Link will rejuvenate and connect many parts of greater Auckland and unlock the productivity of our inner city, allowing us to be internationally

AUCKLAND IS ON THE MOVE! An artist’s impression of the redeveloped Mt Eden Station to be completed as part of the City Rail Link

competitive for jobs and investment,” says Mayor Len Brown. “It will also move more people out of their cars and into public transport, resulting in cleaner air and water, which in turn will dramatically reduce our vehicular greenhouse gas emissions and lessen the estimated 120 annual air pollution-related deaths in Auckland.” Reshaping the city The CRL will also reshape the city. Two new city stations, Aotea and Karangahape, along with a redeveloped Mt Eden station, will be only three minutes apart, linking downtown, midtown and uptown. The areas surrounding these stations will become a magnet for businesses and residents, offering the greatest potential for mixed-use urban development in the country over the next few decades. Travel time savings mean areas such as Henderson, Panmure and Manukau will be much closer to the city, providing a catalyst for growth and development in town centres too.

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A traditional welcome for New Zealand PM John Key

he vanua o’ Nakelo will be performing the traditional welcome ceremony for the New Zealand Prime Minister, John Key, when he arrives into the country on June 9. Speaking on behalf of the vanua o’ Nakelo Aca Simolo said a delegation from the iTaukei Affairs Board led by the Deputy Secretary, Apakuki Kurusiga, had traditionally approached them and it had been agreed. He said PM Key would be accorded full traditional ceremonies of welcome. “Nakelo will also be performing a war dance as the entertainment part of the welcome ceremonies,” he said. Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key

had confirmed to the Fiji Sun that his counterpart from New Zealand

will be arriving into the country on June 9. According to the tentative programme, PM Key will arrive into the country on board a Royal New Zealand Air Force aircraft at 4:10 p.m. at Nausori International Airport. The chief of protocol, Tiko Rasoqosoqo, and the New Zealand High Commissioner, Mark Ramsden, will board the official plane to accompany PM Key when he disembarks. Mr Rasoqosoqo will then introduce Prime Minister Bainimarama and Mrs Bainimarama to the chief guest and a bouquet will be presented to him. Prime Minister Bainimarama will introduce the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military

industries. “We had to take the hard line approach and they took note and they listened, which is great. That is being a good Pacific neighbour,” he said. The next round of intersessional (technical) PACER Plus meeting will be held in Nadi in June. In an earlier statement, Mr McClay said, “As we move into the final stages of PACER Plus negotiations, we are working hard to conclude an agreement that benefits all Pacific islands countries and New Zealand.”

He had anticipated discussions with Mr Koya to provide an opportunity to engage with and understand Fiji’s perspectives on negotiations. Fiji has continuously stressed it wants the PACER Plus to be development oriented given we are currently developing and know where we want to be in the years to come. PACER Plus is seen from a positive view point as an avenue that could contribute in facilitating our development path.

Executives of Fiji Airways and Changi International Airport in Singapore during the inaugural Nadi-Singapore flight

based Jetstar Asia, said, “Our services and networks out of Singapore deliver very attractive itineraries for global carriers to offer their customers. “More importantly, such interline and codeshare partnerships with full-service carriers are testament to our product and delivery of an equivalent level of service on board our flights,” Mr Pasupathi added. The Jetstar-Fiji Airways interline agreement builds on Jetstar’s growing base of 46 established interline partners that

Sangam praised

include Qantas, Air France-KLM, British Airways, United and China Eastern, just to name a few. Jetstar currently also has existing codeshare agreements with Qantas, Japan Airlines, American Airlines, Sri Lankan Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, Finnair, LATAM and Emirates. Fiji Airways and Jetstar customers will be able to book flights and check through baggage when purchasing tickets from Fiji Airways’ sales channels, including its website, online travel sites, sales offices and reservation centres.

Forces, Rear Admiral Viliame Naupoto, to PM Key, who will then invite him to inspect a 100-person guard of honour at the airport. The traditional ceremonies of welcome will include the Qaloqalovi, Vakamamaca, Sevusevu, Yaqona Vakaturaga, Wase ni Yaqona Vakaturaga, Vosa Vakaturaga (speech by PM Key) and Ulivi ni Vosa Vakaturaga. At the conclusion of the welcome ceremony, PM Key will proceed to a cocktail reception hosted by PM Bainimarama either at the GPH Poolside or at Boron House. PM Key leaves the country on June 10 after his meetings with the Prime Minister and government officials.

Taiwan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Cambodia and Myanmar, through Jetstar’s dense network across the Asia Pacific region,” Mr Viljoen added. “The guests will be able to conveniently experience the wonders of our home, Fiji, and the South Pacific via the Singapore hub,” Mr Viljoen said. While the agreement covers all 73 destinations served by the Jetstar Group, including Jetstar Airways in Australia, the immediate take-up will be for Jetstar destinations from Singapore. Barathan Pasupathi, CEO of Singapore-

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resident Major-General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote has praised the forefathers of the Sangam organisation for their responsible socio-economic, educational and cultural contribution to Fiji. He made the statement when he opened the Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI) Sangam Convention 2016 at Prince Charles Park, Nadi, last week. “It has been demonstrated with this type of example Fiji needs to cultivate a sense of belonging in one nation and to improve the lives for all Fijians,” he said. He said TISI as an institution had a rich and colourful history since its establishment on May 24, 1926. “It has made significant contribution to Fiji in the form of education, promotions of cultural beliefs, practices and language and to achieve socio-economic growth among others,” President Konrote said. “We have to pay our respect to the founders of Sangam and on this occasion shall pay homage to Sadhu Kuppuswamy as founding father of Sangam. He knew the suffering the South Indians had gone through. They were highly disadvantaged, underpaid and never knew the languages. “He made vast impression for Sangam until his death on August 2, 1956, at the age of 66. “He left memories to inspire generations. With immense contribution to this nation, Sangam started educating the children of not only those of South Indian origin but those of the other communities as well.” The theme for the convention is Perseverance and Endeavors for Dignity from 1916 to 2016. The organisation was in the forefront in the aftermath of TC Winston spending $300,000 in relief and rehabilitation work. Also, $25,000 was handed towards the Prime Minister’s National Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Fund.

Fiji Airways adds Jetstar Asia to interline agreement iji Airways and Jetstar announced the launch of an interline agreement that will see the Fijian flag carrier connect to more than 21 destinations on Jetstar’s network from Singapore. The interline agreement has been signed with the Jetstar Group of branded airlines including Jetstar Airways, Jetstar Asia, Jetstar Japan and Jetstar Pacific. Andre Viljoen, Fiji Airways Managing Director and CEO said: “This is an exciting growth phase for our newest international route of Singapore and allows us to connect our extensive South Pacific network to Jetstar’s impressive network throughout Asia.” Fiji Airways commenced twiceweekly direct flights to Singapore on April 5. “This interline agreement means our customers will be able to travel seamlessly through Singapore to 21 destinations in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, China, Hong Kong,

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NZ Trade minister agrees to help iron out PACER Plus redline issues

ew Zealand Trade Minister, Todd McClay, yesterday discussed ways to look into Fiji’s concerns over PACER Plus. Our Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Faiyaz Siddiq Koya, following the meeting with Mr McClay, indicated the two countries were in agreement to iron out the redline issues. PACER Plus is a planned regional trade and economic integration agreement between all members of the Pacific Islands Source: Fiji Sun

Forum and Australia and New Zealand. Fiji has previously raised concerns over a number of issues over PACER Plus negotiations and stressed it is not a traditional free trade agreement but rather a development agreement. Fiji has maintained the position that PACER Plus should secure long-term improved market access, preserve policy space, create employment and achieve sustainable development. Some red line areas that Mr Koya said had been discussed were right

Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism Faiyaz Siddiq Koya and the New Zealand Minister for Trade, Todd McClay, during their meeting on Pacific Agreement on Closer Economic Relations (PACER) Plus at The Westin Resort and Spa in Denarau

to regulate and infant industry development, which was in order to support new and emerging

15 Indian diplomat presents credential FIJI

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is Excellency the President, Major General (ret’d) Jioji Konousi Konrote received the credential of India’s new High Commissioner to Fiji His Excellency Vishvas Sapkal. High Commissioner Sapkal was accorded a 25-member guard of honour by officers of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces at the State House lawn before he presented his credential to the President. Mr Sapkal joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1998 and has served at Indian permanent missions in Russia, Armenia

and the United States of America. He was Consul General of India to St. Petersburg, Russia and has also served in Multilateral Economic Relations Division, Northern Division, Finance Division and India Africa Forum Summit Secretariat of the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi. Prior to his appointed to Fiji, he was Deputy Chief of Mission at the Embassy of India in Cairo, Egypt. Mr Sapkal, who holds an engineering degree in Electronics from Walchand College of Engineering, Shivaji University,

Kolhapur in Maharashtra, also served in the Indian Information Service (IIS) of Government of India. The Indian envoy, who will be based in Suva, speaks fluent Marathi, Hindi, English and Russian. Meanwhile, co-operation between India and Fiji on a broad range of issues has been discussed during talks in New Delhi between the Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama, and his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi.

His Excellency the President Major-General-(ret’d) Jioji Konrote receives the credential of India’s new High Commissioner to Fiji His Excellency Vishvas Sapkal

PM to receive $23.4M from EU

rime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama will receive $23.4 million from the European Union to assist Fiji’s recovery effort in the wake of Tropical Cyclone Winston. Bainimarama is in Papua New Guinea for the eighth African Caribbean and Pacific Summit. He is expected to then take part in discussions with other leaders on sustainable development and the future of the ACP. Bainimarama heading a delegation to the ACP Summit arrived in Port Moresby. He joins heads of state and heads of government from the 79 ACP member countries.

Fiji wins bid for InterHash Super Meet in 2018

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iji beats Malaysia and Indonesia to host one of the largest single international sports events to be ever staged. Fiji has won the right to host an international event for diehard runners from around the world—the 21st InterHash Super Meet. As they prepare to host the event in Nadi in May 2018, they will also be welcoming around 5000 hash harriers from around the world for the four- to six-day event. This will provide a major boost to the economy as well as the tourism sector. InterHash is a biennial event and is the peak event for international running club Hash House Harriers from around the world to meet, run, socialise and drink beer. Team Fiji’s bid is a significant win against experienced and larger representation bids by previous successful InterHash hosts, Medan (Indonesia) and Kuching (Malaysia). Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism Faiyaz Siddiq Koya was in Bali, Indonesia to campaign with Team Fiji Hash and address the 6,000 strong attendees. “We want to associate our name with InterHash because it is an important, high quality event—and because the fun and spirit around the event it promotes an important message of physical fitness,” he said. Mr Koya said InterHash provides not just an opportunity for Fiji to host one of the largest events ever–that is, being hosts to more than 5,000 hash harriers from around the world. He said they want the next InterHash to be a true family affair for each participant. “While the harriers enjoy their run and a cold drink, their families can enjoy the vast range of activities that Fiji has to offer,” he said.

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Thought of the week

Without deviation from the norm, progress is not possible — Frank Zappa

Editorial

From the desk of the Managing Editor

“

You might question the value of such a detailed explanation, but I have a purpose, and that purpose is to force you to think, to think deeply, with intensity. Don’t confuse the word ‘intensity’ with ‘tenseness’. Tenseness implies mental strain, and arises out of fear and anxiety. It is destructive to both mind and body. My use of intensity here suggests mental force or power, and its results are constructive. Your progress depends upon your degree of sustained intensity in a given direction.” ~John McDonald from The Message of a Master Whenever in life we are working towards something, we want to apply a high level of mental power to what we are doing without fear; just pure, enthusiastic, creative mojo. That’s a very good thing. If however we took that same intensity and combine that with fear plus an attachment to the results along with self-consciousness and overthinking, you are heading for nothing other than a huge amount of stress and eventual burnout. Stress and tension seem to creep in when we get too attached to outcomes. So when you find yourself over trying or getting overly tensed about anything in life, that’s a good time to step back and think about how much you would enjoy doing the same things without being attached to the outcomes. Having said that, once you have established that frame of mind, you need to ensure that you work towards your goal with the fullest intensity. June marks the month of Matariki—the start of a new phase of life. It is a time of festivity for Māori, the tangata whenua, or first people of New Zealand. Matariki is an important time in the Māori calendar and is associated with the start of the cold season when the pātaka kai (food storehouses) are full and the land is at its most unproductive. Matariki is also a celebration of people, language, spirituality and history. It is the time when people gather to share kai (food), rituals, entertainment, hospitality and knowledge. Every year, this month is celebrated with events involving theatre, comedy, music and dance, arts and crafts, including carving and weaving, passing on knowledge and history, traditional ceremonies and family activities. I hope everyone is able to take the time out this month and catch atleast one such activity. Matariki is also viewed as a signal of what kind of year lies ahead. If the stars are clear and bright, it is a sign that the year ahead will be warm and bountiful. If they are hazy and shimmering, a cold, unproductive year is expected. For the Māori, this is also a time to reflect on, acknowledge and celebrate the year gone by, to show respect for the land and learn about it, to remember the whakapapa (ancestry) who have passed on to the next world, and the legacy they have left behind. It is a time to turn to the future, welcome the new generation to the world and make plans for the year ahead. Let’s make this month a fresh start and mindfully move ahead in whatever endeavour we may wish to achieve with full intensity. Until next time.

Giri Gupta

Indian Weekender : Volume 8 Issue 11 Publisher: Kiwi Media Group Limited Managing Editor: Giri Gupta | girigupta@xtra.co.nz Editor: Annu Sharma | editor@indianweekender.co.nz Chief Reporter: Swati Sharma | reporter@indianweekender.co.nz Reporter: Rizwan Mohammad | iwk.rizwan@gmail.com Reporter: Esha Chanda | iwk.eshac@gmail.com Chief Technical Officer: Rohan Desouza | rohan@indianweekender.co.nz Sr Graphics and Layout Designer: Mahesh Kumar | mahesh@indianweekender.co.nz Graphic Designer: Yashmin Chand | designer@indianweekender.co.nz Accounts and Admin.: accounts@indianweekender.co.nz Sales, Marketing & Distribution: 022 3251630 / mahesh@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 Published by Kiwi Media Group, 98 Great South Road, Auckland • T. +64 09 213 7335 Printed at Horton Media, Auckland Copyright 2016. Kiwi Media Group. All Rights Reserved. Cover photo courtesy nbr.co.nz

Pick of the week

A striking view: Lightning strikes the famous dome-shaped, sandstone monolith Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, in UluruKata Tjuta National Park, Australia. Photograph by Christoph Schaarschmidt, National Geographic Your Shot.

Word: Munted Meaning: Broken Usage: After the crush, Jack’s car was completely munted

Tip from the trenches

DIY carpet stain removers 1. Get rid of the coffee or tea stain by pouring a bit of beer on top of it 2. Ink on the carpet? Remove it by using a mixture of milk and cornstarch. 3. Spilt red wine on your carpet? Simply pour white wine on it and then sprinkle the area with salt. 4. For spilled nail polish and paint, remove the stain with a paint remover. 5. To remove chewing gum stuck on the carpet, freeze the gum with ice cubes and then scrape it off.

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NDA highlights achievements at gala event, Modi cites anti-corruption efforts

rime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, May 28, said his government was working with determination to fulfil its promises to people and had been able to check leakages to the tune of Rs.36,000 crore as the NDA organised a gala event at India Gate in New Delhi to mark it two years in office. Union ministers showcased their achievements and Bollywood’s leading names espoused social causes at the Ek Nayi Subah event. A range of initiatives including Swachh Bharat campaign, the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao, Pradhan Mantrai Ujjwala Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana were highlighted as well as moves to boost farmers’ income, improve connectivity, step up investment and enhance jobs and improve rail, road and air infrastructure and provide electricity to all villages. The event was held in a Talkathon format with ministers answering queries put to them. Media was not invited at the event but the event was screened live on various channels of Doordarshan. Discussions were in studio format and interspersed with some light entertainment in the form of songs and dances. The “breaks” in between discussions featured

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

consumer awareness advertisements as also the NDA government’s theme song on completing two years in office—Mera desh badal raha hai (my country is changing). Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Health Minister J.P. Nadda, Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi, Minorities Affairs Minister Najma Heptullah, Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh, Rural Development Minister Birender Singh, Water Resources Minister Uma Bharti, Human Development Minister Smriti Irani and Food Minister Ramvilas Paswan were among those who participated. The ministers highlighted government initiatives and also heaped praise on Modi’s leadership. Minister of State in PMO Jitendra Singh said that Modi has natural inclination towards science and he was

the motivation behind the soil health card scheme, while Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma said that Modi had taken steps to promote development of the northeast. Paswan said Modi came from a poor family and the government was oriented towards welfare of the poor. Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, who interacted from Nagpur, said that Modi had taken steps to end “policy paralysis”, while Jaitley said the economy had achieved a growth rate of around 7.5 per cent amid global slowdown. Uma Bharti suggested that government should take steps to provide sanitary napkins in women’s toilets in rural areas. Meanwhile, Amitabh Bachchan said the girl child should be nurtured, educated and treated as equal and how Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao aims at ending discrimination against them. Sporting a saffron coloured Nehru jacket, he also interacted with girl children from various schools, and even recited lines from his father Harivansh Rai Bachchan’s famous Madhushala. Actor Vidya Balan stressed the need to construct toilets in rural areas, while Raveena Tandon, participating in a panel discussion, stressed how education can lead women towards better living. In his speech,

Modi targeted Congress over alleged corruption during the UPA rule and said his government will provide LPG connection to five crore rural women by 2019. In a veiled attack on Congress and parties critical of the government, Modi said some will just oppose his government for political reasons. “Two things have emerged in the last 15 days. One is Vikasvad (development) and the other is Virodhvad (opposition). What is the reality, people can judge for themselves”, he said. Comparing corruption to a termite, Modi said his government had taken series of steps to tackle it including making payments through direct benefit transfer and using Aadhar. He said the government had saved leakage of Rs.15,000 crore in LPG subsidy, identified over 1.62 crore fake ration cards and checked other malpractices such as appointment of fake teachers. “In broad terms we have been able to plug leakages of Rs.36,000 crores,” he said. Referring to the government’s push for LED bulbs, he said it will help save 20,000 MW once the government achieves its target of providing such bulbs in 500 cities and save Rs. 1 lakh crore. He said there was a “new thinking” among people and this was the biggest change.

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Swaraj Party takes form months ahead of Punjab polls

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ith barely months to go for assembly polls in Punjab, launch of a new political party—Swaraj Party, led by former Panjab University professor Manjit Singh—was announced in Chandigarh on Sunday, May 29. The new entity claimed association with the Swaraj Abhiyan—a socio-political group, which is headed by expelled Aam Aadmi Party leader Yogendra Yadav. “A large number of delegates of Swaraj Lehar from all over Punjab have launched the Swaraj Party. A state working committee of 41 members has been constituted to expand the party base at the block and village levels,” said Manjit Singh, who was unanimously elected the Swaraj Party president, in Chandigarh. Swaraj Lehar was the Punjab unit of Swaraj Abhiyan. The party leadership said its organisational structure was already in place in 11 of the 22 districts in Punjab. However, none of the national leaders of Swaraj Abhiyan, including Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan, were present at the convention where the resolution for creating the new party was passed. Within hours of the announcement about the Swaraj Party by some of its leaders,

Aam Aadmi Party parliamentarians Dr Dharamvira Gandhi and Harinder Singh Khalsa expressed solidarity with the new political entity. “I welcome the formation of this outfit. Any party that works to propagate the idea of alternative politics and Swaraj must be supported,” Gandhi, Lok Sabha Swaraj Abhiyan leaders Yogendra Yadav and Prashant Bhushan during a press conference in member from New Delhi, on July 30, 2015 Patiala, said. Khalsa, MP from Fatehgarh Sahib, too the Swaraj Abhiyan dissociated itself from lauded the formation of the new party. the entity. “We wish to clarify that this initiative “Basically, it’s an entity formed by the has not been sponsored by Swaraj Abhiyan. people thrown out by (Delhi Chief Minister Though many colleagues associated with and AAP national convenor) Arvind this initiative are from Swaraj Abhiyan, Kejriwal when they questioned him. We Punjab, the decision to form a political wish them luck for the future,” Khalsa said. “Another group of volunteers compelled party has not been taken in accordance with the due process laid down by the Abhiyan,” to leave the AAP because of the functioning the Swaraj Abhiyan media cell said of the AAP’s state unit is likely to form a party within some time.” in a statement. Elections to the 117-member assembly “We wish the Swaraj Party well and and in Punjab are scheduled to be held early will like to have a fraternal relationship with it.” On the other hand, two suspended next year.

Indian army team commence 900 km cycle expedition across Arunachal

n Sunday, May 29, a 22-member Indian Army team embarked on a 900-km-long challenging mountain terrain cycling expedition across Arunachal Pradesh along the India-China border, a defence ministry official said. “The expedition is being held in high altitude areas over 12,000 feet to 14,000 feet above mean sea level and where weather and terrain are a formidable challenge, the freezing temperatures and rain makes the task further difficult,” the official said. The team is being led by Major Puneet Sharan of Indian Army’s Blazing Sword Division. The team will cycle for twenty days through a treacherous route comprising road, jeep tracks, footpath and cross country trails and finally reach their destination— Tezpur in Assam. The army men would cover West Kameng and Tawang districts of Arunachal Pradesh, over four major mountain passes. “The passes traversed includes Bomdi La (7,274 feet), Se La (13,700 feet), Bum La (16,500 feet) and Gonkar La (15,567 feet),” said the official, adding that the team mission is to spread and promote the spirit of adventure and nature conservation, reach out to the local populace including schoolchildren and ex-servicemen, and spread the message of peace, solidarity and national integration. S P O N S O R S

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INDIA

3 June 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

Modi to embark on five-nation tour on June 4

rime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a five nation tour from June 4 that will see him travelling to Afghanistan, Qatar, Switzerland, the US and Mexico. Modi will first go to Afghanistan on June 4, where he will visit Herat to inaugurate the Salma Dam that has been funded by India. He will head to Qatar on June 5 for a bilateral visit where he will hold talks with Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, and economic ties, especially the hydrocarbon sector, will be high on the agenda. This is the first prime ministerial visit from India to Qatar in eight years since the visit of Manmohan Singh to Doha in 2008. With 630,000, Indians form the largest expatriate community in Qatar. From Qatar, Modi will head to Switzerland. “During the visit, the Prime Minister and the President of the Swiss Confederation

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discussions on bilateral, regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest,” an

official statement said. From Switzerland, Modi will travel to the US on June 7 and 8 at the invitation of US President Barack Obama, with whom he will review the progress made in key areas of defence, security and energy. In his last leg of visit, Modi will reach Mexico on June 8 at the invitation of President Enrique Pena Nieto. Relations between India and Mexico have witnessed renewed vigour and activity in the last two years and Modi had a substantive bilateral meeting with President Nieto on the sidelines of UNGA. “The main objective of the forthcoming visit of Prime Minister would be to carry forward the momentum in our bilateral relations and discuss cooperation in areas such as space, energy, agriculture and science and technology among others,” the statement said. The two leaders will also be discussing various multilateral issues during the visit.

Kejriwal discusses infrastructure projects with Japanese envoy

apanese Ambassador Kenji Hiramatsu met Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday, May 30 and discussed mutual cooperation on infrastructure projects such as the Dedicated Elevated Bus Corridors, an official said. Both discussed common grounds between Delhi and Japan and how the two can mutually benefit each other, said the official. “The main project discussed during the meeting was the Delhi government’s project of Dedicated Elevated Bus Corridors in the city to ease out traffic congestion. Besides this transportation, water, sewage system, earthquake resistant buildings projects

were discussed during the 30-minute meeting,” a government official said. The meeting was also attended by PWD Minister Satyendar Jain and Delhi Dialogue Commission (DDC) Vice Chairman Ashish Khetan. “Kejriwal told the ambassador that a delegation of the Delhi government will visit him for further discussions and to look into more areas of cooperation. DDC vice chairman Khetan said that the delegation would make a presentation on the projects of the Delhi government and outline its vision when it visits Japan,” the official said.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal

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ith its breakthrough technology on waterless tanning for leather processing, the Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) expects to save the rivers from the toxic chromium and sulphates effluents mixed in more than 170 million litres of water every day. The CLRI, part of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), applied to patent the technology in 2014. It now has a “product” and a “process” for waterless and salt-less tanning that would save water and the environment. “To treat one kilogram of animal skin and hide, about 50 litres of water is used. It’s required to wash the salts used by the tanners at primary stage to preserve the leather, making the effluents hazardous. With the dry tanning technology this would stop,” B. Chandrasekaran, Director CSIR-CLRI said. He said that CLRI offers ‘dry tanning’ as a product and another ‘waterless chrome tanning’ as a process, that requires training the tannery workers for using salts for preserving the animal skins at primary processing level. The CLRI technology uses a conventional drum-tanning method, in which instead of lime and water, a CSIR’s patented additives are mixed. That saves water and also helps reduce the solid waste produced by lime and other chemicals. “The technology reduces the water effluents by 90 to 95 per cent,” said Chandrasekaran. The CLRI, which is now being approached by leather companies across the globe to procure the technology, has also prepared a detailed project report (DPR) for Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, where the largest number of tanneries is located in India. “We have been contacted by several domestic tanneries and a big MNC that had offered Rs 2 crore for this technology,” he said. Kanpur has more than 23 per cent of the country’s tanneries and uses about 20 million litres of water every day. Most of this untreated effluent flows out through over 23 major open drains into the Ganga river and are the major cause of its pollution. “A DPR for Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETP) for Kanpur is being finalised. The main problem is that only a few tanneries in Kanpur treat the effluents,” he said. There are also several unauthorised tanneries in Kanpur region and about 100 were closed two years back. Those operating water treatment plants only give primary treatment to the used water. According to environment activists, there is no proper monitoring of such treatment plants. According to green activists, it is a similar case with the tanneries of Kolkata and Tamil Nadu.

INDIA ABROAD

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 June 2016

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Microsoft seeks to empower every Indian: Satya Nadella

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Nadella also met Communications Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. “Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella met me today. Discussed in enhancing cooperation with Microsoft towards Digital India,” the minister tweeted. Minister of State for Finance Jayant Sinha, who was also present at the event, said, “Microsoft is a platform for India’s growth.” Looking at Nadella, the minister added, “India can be an entrepreneurship engine. The kind of innovation you do in Seattle, New York, London and other places will not work in Jhanda Chowk in Hazaribagh (a constituency represented by Sinha). We need to innovate in India, for India. In today’s day, the world that you live in, the world that you are going to shape, the world that you are going to change, that canvas is so rich,” Nadella said while addressing the event. Among the young developers who Nadella met was also an eight-year-old boy who created a game trying to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. “To me, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella calls on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in New Delhi on May 30, 2016 this idea of “In my life there have been two passions conversations-as-a-platform is a pretty that have driven at least my dreams, and transformative change in computing that I I think back and one of the catalyst—it’s think we’re in the very early stages of. And poetry and computer science,” said the I can’t wait to see what you all create on top India-born Nadella, who started his speech of this platform in terms of changing how quoting Mirza Ghalib, the noted Urdu and people experience computing,” he added. Referring to transformation, Nadella Persian poet of the 19th century. He met developers, entrepreneurs and added, “When you change the way you see the world, you change the world you students before the event. Later in the day, Nadella met Prime see. And I think that’s what all of you are Minister Narendra Modi. “Discussed going to do.” However, analysts are yet to figure out various issues pertaining to the IT sector with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella,” a clear roadmap from Microsoft regarding empowering Indian citizens. Modi tweeted. icrosoft’s focus on India is to empower every citizen and organisation so that they can perform better than their potential and achieve more for themselves and the country, the US giant’s chief executive Satya Nadella said on Monday, May 30. “It’s such an immense pleasure for me to be here in India and to see the energy, the creativity of this place. It’s infectious really for me, and, obviously I grew up here and I come back here often, but every time I come back, I go back energised and it’s phenomenal. It’s important to dream big and create big,” said Nadella, who is on his third visit to India since assuming charge as Microsoft CEO. He was addressing the ‘Technology for good, Ideas for India’ conference organised by Microsoft.

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Two Indian-origin students win US spelling bee contest

wo Indian-origin students won the the 2016 Scripps National Spelling Bee, third straight year of double winners. Nihar Janga, 11, of Austin, Texas, and Jairam Hathwar, 13, of Corning, New York, were declared co-champions at the National Spelling Bee on Thursday, May 26. “It was just insane, I don’t even know how to put it in words,” Jairam said. “I’m just speechless. I can’t say anything. I’m only in fifth grade,” Nihar said. Nihar correctly spelled the word ‘gesellschaft’, which refers to a type of social relationship and Jairam correctly spelled the word ‘Feldenkrais’, a trademark that refers to a system of aided body movements. Jairam’s brother Sriram was the winner

of the 2014 spelling championship. Twice, it looked as if Jairam would be eliminated, after he misspelled ‘drahthaar’, a breed of dog, and ‘mischsprache’, a language. But Nihar missed his followup words, which put Jairam back in the contest. The spellers took home $40,000 in cash and other prizes. Ten contestants made it to the finals and competed for the title of national champion before a live television audience. For the first time, the list of competitors included a first-grader—six-year-old Akash Vukoti of San Angelo, Texas. Last year’s winners were Vanya Shivashankar of Olathe, Kansas, and Gokul Venkatachalam of Chesterfield, Missouri.

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Real Madrid wins 11th Champions League title on penalties

eal Madrid captured an unprecedented 11th Champions League title with a 5–3 victory on penalties over cross-town rivals Atletico Madrid, which had rallied to tie 1–1 in the regulation 90 minutes of play. In a rematch of the 2014 final of Europe’s biggest club competition, the same team came out on top but the roles were reversed this time as Real held the lead for the majority of the contest. Sergio Ramos put Real Madrid ahead in the 15th minute when Toni Kroos sent a ball in from the left side on a free kick and Gareth Bale headed it onwards to Atletico Madrid’s goal. Atletico’s net minder Jan Oblak was beaten by Sergio Ramos, who knocked it home with his left foot to open the scoring, a goal that stood even though replays showed the Real Madrid defender was offside. That lead was held up for the rest of the first half even though Atletico showed signs of life before the intermission, with French striker Antoine Griezmann, a new addition to the club since its last Champions final, tirelessly applying pressure on Real’s defences. Atletico then had a golden chance to tie the contest at the start of the second half when Pepe fouled Fernando

Real Madrid—the 2016 Champions League winners

Torres, but Griezmann slammed his penalty try off the crossbar to the growing dread of the white-and-red-clad fans in the stands at San Siro stadium. Time was Atletico Madrid’s enemy, but Yannick Carrasco, who had come on at the start of the second half, tied up the game in the 79th minute after receiving a perfectly placed cross from Juanfran. Two years after coming within

seconds of the Champions League crown in Lisbon, now it was Real Madrid’s turn to rue a late equaliser. Both side failed to score goals and so the game headed into penalties. The first seven players stepped up and deposited the ball in the back of the net—Lucas Vazquez, Marcelo, Bale and Ramos for Real Madrid and Griezmann,

Sunrisers Hyderabad beat Royal Challengers to win IPL 2016

oyal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) lost out to Sunrisers Hyderabd (SRH) by eight runs in a dramatic final of the Indian Premier League (IPL) Season Nine on Sunday, May 29 at the Chinnaswami Stadium. Requiring 209 runs in 20 overs with an asking rate of 12.54, Royal Challengers could only manage 200/7, though it got off to a flying start helped by a pounding Chris Gayle and a stable Virat Kohli. Chris Gayle spearheaded the chase for Royal Challengers with a superb 38-ball76. He accounted for 74 of the first 100 runs scored by RCB by the end of nine overs by smashing eight sixes and four fours. However, the Gayle show came to an end with a top edge catch held by Bipul Sharma off Ben Cutting. Kohli departed soon after Gayle, castled by Barinder Sran, and what followed later was only disappointment and heartbreak for the Royal Challengers. Abraham De Villiers (5), Lokesh Rahul (11), Shane Watson (11), Stuart Binny (9), Chris Jordan (3) and Sachin Baby (18 not out) did not rise up to the occasion. De Villiers (5) misfired in the 14th over off B Sharma to be caught by Moises Henriques. The scoreboard read 160/4 before the end of 16th over. At this point, RCB needed 49 runs off 26 balls. Later, Watson hit an aimless shot high up into the sky only to be caught by Henriques off Rahman. The onus was then on Roger Binny and Sachin Baby to rescue the match and win the trophy for RCB.

Sunrisers Hyderabad celebrate after winning IPL 2016 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru

But in the final six balls, RCB needed 18 runs, and despite Binny and Baby’s efforts, RCB managed a 200/7 to lose the match and the tournament to SRH. Earlier, Sunrisers Hyderabad set a formidable target of 209 runs for Royal Challengers Bangalore. Propelled by captain David Warner (69), Ben Cutting (39) and Yuvraj Singh (38), Surisers scored 208/7 in 20 overs. Opening the innings with Shikar Dhawan, Warner started off slowly but then began scoring quick runs in a 38-ball-69, which included eight fours and three sixes. They posted a 69-run partnership off 40 balls to lay the foundation of the big score. Although Deepak Hooda (3), Moises Henriques (4) and Naman Ojha failed with the bat, Yuvraj Singh and Cutting rose to the occasion in the middle and final overs respectively.

With four fours and two sixes, Yuvraj looked set for a big score, until he was caught by Watson off Chris Jordan. It was however Cutting, who proved to be difficult for RCB in the final overs when he smashed 39 runs, which included four sixes and three fours of just 15 balls. In the last over off Watson, Cutting plundered 24 runs, hitting three sixes and a four. Although RCB got a good start, they gave away too many runs in the final overs. In the last 42 balls, RCB leaked 82 runs while claiming five wickets. Aravind produced the best bowling with 2/30 while Jordan claimed three wickets but proved costly with an economy rate of 11.25. Chahal (1/35) was the only other bowler to claim a wicket with the Royal Challengers gave away 20 extras. Chris Gayle was adjudged the man of the match for his 76.

Gabi and Saul Niguez for Atletico, but a Juanfran attempt that hit the post put the Atletico’s hopes on life support. That left only Cristiano Ronaldo to calmly boot the game winner into the right half of the goal as Oblak dove the other way. Real Madrid head coach Zinedine Zidane, who turned around the club’s fortunes when he took over midway through the season, did not have to wait long for his first big crown. “I dreamed of this title when I took this job. I knew it was possible, especially working with a team with this much history. We did it with effort and work and we fought to the end. The players deserve everything,” Zidane, who starred for Real as a midfielder, said after the match. Real Madrid’s president, Florentino Perez, for his part, offered words of encouragement for his club’s local rival, which came tantalisingly close to winning its first Champions League title two years ago before Ramos knotted the final at 1–1 with a goal three minutes into injury time in the second half. “I feel a little sad that they’ve put in so much effort and haven’t been able to win, but I’m convinced they’ll win the Champions League,” Perez said.

India aim to increase medals haul in Asian junior athletics meet

29-member Indian team will participate in the 17th Asian Junior Athletics Championships to be held in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from June 3 to 6. A team of 27 athletes, along with coaches left on Monday, May 30. Two other promising youngsters, South Asian Games 2016 javelin champion Neeraj Chopra, and 2015 Commonwealth Youth Games 400 metres bronze medallist Chandan Bauri will be heading from Spala, Poland, where they are currently training for the 2016 Olympics, an Athletics Federation of India release said. The Indian junior team features a good mix of promising young athletes who have made their mark at the youth level in 2015 at the Commonwealth Youth Games and Asian Youth Athletics Championships and several new faces. Among the emerging stars in the squad are 800m runner Beant Singh, long jumper Tajaswin Shankar who won gold in the 2015 Samoa Commonwealth Youth Games, 400m runner Jisna Mathew who won silver at the Samoa Games, Asian Youth Championships 3000m gold medallist Kisan Narshi Tadvi in addition to Neeraj Chopra and Chandan Bauri. The Indian team will be aiming to better their medal haul this time after finishing fifth in the previous Asian Junior Championships held at Taiwan. The Indian team bagged 12 medals, including two golds, six silvers and four bronzes in the 2014 edition.

KIDS ZONE

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 June 2016

Red

Black

Farm Puzzle Orange

Crossword Across 1. This animal lays eggs 4. The farmer drives one 6. It lives in a sty 7. Lots of this animal are called geese 10. You can have a “billy” or a “nanny” one of these 11. Chickens lay them

Fun with knowledge

14. When fruit is ready to eat it is _ _ _ _

Word Scramble RERMAF

15. An unwanted plant is

______

CICHKNE

_______

NBAR

____

RTATRCO

_______

PEHES

_____

To Colour

called one

1. Grown in fields 2. This animal chases mice 3. Where animals live on a

Sudoku Fill in the grid with the numbers 1, 2, 3 and 4 making sure no number is repeated in each row, each column and within each mini grid.

farm 5. A male chicken is called one 8. This animal is woolly and “Baa’s” 9. You can ride this animal 12. Pigs live here 13. This animal produces milk

www.kidspuzzlesandgames.co.uk

Every day I look at the clock watching the time pass Slowly tic toc tic Seconds turn into minutes and minutes into days I sometimes wonder if he misses me as much as I do I will be patient I know he will come I know you will dad.

Solution to last week's Soduko

Advaiith Umashankar

Down

Luara and her golden stars

Luara was a little girl. Her mother was working in a super market. Her father was working in a petrol bunk as a manager. After she ate her dinner, she went to her garden at the night. She saw some sparkling lights in the garden. She was amazed by seeing all these. She saw lots and lots of golden stars which were made out of gold. She took some fishing net and a big bag. She picked as many stars she could pick. From that moment Luara and her family lived happily with the golden stars they got. One day while Luara was watering her garden, she saw her closest friend. Her name was Madhavi. Every day they went to school together in their cycles. Madhavi went to Luara and said, Hi Luara. How are you? Luara said, I am fine. Thank You. How about you? Madhavi said, I am so bad . Luara asked what happened? My father lost his job, said Madhavi. Don't worry Madhavi!! I will help you. Few months before I got lots of golden stars from my garden. Luara said I would certainly help you with those golden stars I have. Thanks so much I will speak to my father regarding this, said Madhavi. Madhavi and her father met Luara and Madhavi's father said, Thank you child I will return your stars in few months. Its okay uncle you can have it. From then on Laura's family and Madhavi's family lived happily ever after. Moral: A true hearted friend is the kindest of all.

Chocolate Cake

I'm scoffing lots of chocolate cake,

Poem

But not quite as much as I'd like! I'm wolfing it down with a whirl of my spoon, and it's flinging up, down, left and right!

But faster and faster I shovel it up, Not bothered I'm missing my chops. As it drips from my nose and collects in my ears, Gloops drop from nose and go plop!

It's hitting the walls and spraying the floor, Then too quickly it's gone, there just was not It's covered up Bessie our cat. enough, There's crumbs in my hair and on mother's best As I'd said at the start of this smasher, chair, With my greedy delight (sloppy cake on the lights), And the window's one choclatey splat. Not one spot found its way past my gnashers! Send us stories, drawings, poems and other contributions by your little ones along with their photographs for this page. E-mail us at editor@ indianweekender.co.nz

FEATURES

3 June 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz By Manisha Koushik

Manisha Koushik is the talented daughter and associate of world renowned celebrity astrologer Dr Prem Kumar Sharma. A practicing astrologer, tarot card reader, numerologist, vastu and fengshui consultant is based in India Black but maintains a global presence through the onlineRed channels. She is available for consultations online asOrange well. Let her tarot cards do the magic and numbers make you understand which choices in life will be best for you! E-mail: support@askmanisha.com | Website: www.askmanisha.com Contact: +91-11-26449898 Mobile/Whatsapp: +919015607139

Weekly forecast: JUN 3 to JUN 9 ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

Fine tuning with colleagues will make your job easy. You may feel the undercurrents of a silent revolution brewing against you from someone close. Don’t keep double standards as this can affect your reputation adversely. Be prudent in giving a frank opinion, as you are liable to hurt someone. What you claim to be yours may not be. A romantic relationship grows stronger. Lucky No.: 3 / Lucky Colour: Blue

Bouncing back with a vengeance on the professional front is indicated. Prosperity is assured for those involved in trade and business. Those interacting more than usual with others can expect to develop good contacts. Students can expect praise for their efforts on the academic front. Don’t allow the flames of passion to die down especially towards the end of this week. Those feeling down will recover with a medical help.

A celebration is on the cards and may find you in the thick of organising a feast. Your confidence returns as you receive total support of the one you love. Don’t be too carefree while playing the stocks; an expert guidance will always be helpful. Someone can challenge your authority at work but you should calibrate your responsibilities accordingly.

Be patient in case there are unforeseen delays at the workplace. Going for soft options on the career front is not advised at this juncture. Family contacts could open up new avenues for business expansion. Assisting someone financially now will give good returns in the future. Don’t neglect your domestic and social commitments.

Lucky No.: 7 / Lucky Colour: Peach

Lucky No.: 4 / Lucky Colour: Grey

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

Your insightful suggestions will give you an edge over others on the professional front. Chance meetings with your latest crush could make you contemplative about the future. Love life appears to cool down a bit. Travel to a distant destination may be fatiguing. Not being regular in workouts may start showing on your body. Unnecessary expenses need to be cut down immediately.

Don’t let problems on the health front make you feel lethargic; charge up yourself to face the challenges. The appearance of a close competitor at work can be a bit unsettling so handle it effectively. Resist the temptation to splurge. Stop considering family commitments to be burdensome. Try doing something constructive for the people you love. Lucky No.: 1 / Lucky Colour: Yellow

Businesspersons may find this week profitable, as they manage to beat the competition. Those in media and advertising may find some good opportunities coming their way. Someone will be sporting enough to bail you out from an adverse situation on the academic front. Your belief in the one above will not be enough to turn things in your favour; own efforts will be required. There is an outside chance of romance knocking at your door. Lucky No.: 4 / Lucky Colour: Green

Those ailing are likely to show quick recovery. Something good is likely to happen on the work front. Your request may be considered favourably by the authorities. Enjoying financial clout through properties already owned by you cannot be ruled out. An old friend or colleague is likely to brighten up this phase. An exclusive outing with lover to someplace exclusive is on the cards. Fitness tips work like a charm for those trying to come back in shape. Lucky No.: 6 / Lucky Colour: Red

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

Someone’s actions are likely to come as a big relief to you. A family reunion is on the cards for some. You are likely to go out of your way to spend some time with a family elder. There is a good chance of getting hitched to someone suitable. Romantic thoughts are likely to dominate you. Travelling by road to some place exotic will be most fulfilling. A suitable place to reside is likely to be shortlisted by some. Lucky No.: 4 / Lucky Colour: Pink

Review your approach on the career front to take full advantage. Your competence is likely to get acknowledged at work. Timely handling of a family issue will save you a lot of hassles afterwards. Someone may try to siphon off your money but you are not likely to fall for it. You will manage to remain regular in your daily workouts and benefit on the health front. Don’t become too optimistic of love knocking at your door. Lucky No.: 11 / Lucky Colour: Purple

It will now be easy to sneak some personal time from your hectic schedule. Some of you are certain to proceed on a vacation to someplace exotic and enjoy your heart out! Your love interest will help you in unwinding yourself and making your life more fulfilling. A property lying vacant may be rented out for far less than what you had expected. Those playing the stocks or laying bets can burn their fingers on the financial front. Health remains satisfactory. Lucky No.: 3 / Lucky Colour: Golden

Don’t resent someone else’s success, as you can do little about it. Focus may shift from you in an ongoing cold war on the family front. You will remain meticulous in whatever you take up at work and impress superiors. Adding to an already healthy bank balance cannot be ruled out for some. In health matters, you will be second to none and continue your efforts to achieve total fitness. Weed out narrowmindedness in your relationship. Lucky No.: 2 / Lucky Colour: White

(March 21-April 20)

(July 23-August 23)

Lucky No.: 2 / Lucky Colour: Pink

(Nov 23-December 11)

(April 21-May 20)

Lucky No.: 5 / Lucky Colour: Green

(Sep 24-October 23)

(August 24-Sep 23)

Date: Saturday 4 June to Monday 6 June 2016 Time: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Venue: Queens Wharf, 85-89 Quay Street, Auckland CBD

Khushi – A Family Fun Day

Date: Sunday, 12th June 2016 Time: 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Venue: Mt Roskill War Memorial Hall, Anzac room, 13 May Road, Mt Roskill, Auckland concerts, theatre, exhibitions, kapa haka, kite flying and much more. Visit matarikifestival.org.nz for details (from 9 June). Matariki Festival 2016 has more than 100 events across the Auckland region. Prices vary – many free events

SHANTI NIWAS

Invites you to attend

KHUSHI – A Family Fun day TO COMMEMORATE WORLD ELDER ABUSE AWARENESS DAY

Date: Tuesday, 21 June 2016 Time:7 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. Venue: Mt Albert War Memorial Hall, Auckland. Celebrate International Yoga Day Tuesday June 21st. Program includes simple yoga stretches, meditation

(Feb 20-March 20)

relaxation, kirtan. Free entry. BYO mat/towel. Bring a friend. For more information, contact: MeditationNZ classes@nzsm.co.nz

CHARITABLE TRUST

Queen’s Birthday on Queens Wharf is back with the very best of the British Isles during a three-day free event filled with the music, culture, food and history of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Soak up the essence of a Brighton seaside as you take in the bright lights and fast rides of a true English Carnival on Queens Wharf. Get your thinking caps and aprons on – there will be some great prizes up for grabs for the best British inspired treats. There will also be interactive games, kids’ workshops, classic cars and heaps more to still be announced. The entry to the event is free.

(Oct 24-November 22)

(Jan 22-February 19)

(Dec 22-January 21)

Queen’s Birthday on Queens Wharf

International Yoga Day

(June 22-July 20)

(May 21-June 21)

SUNDAY, 12 JUNE 2016 FROM 11:00 AM TO 2:00 PM TH

MT ROSKILL WAR MEMORIAL HALL, ANZAC ROOM 13 MAY ROAD, MT ROSKILL, AUCKLAND

My World…

Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust invites you to attend your World… Khushi—a family fun day to commemorate World Elder OUR WORLD Abuse Awareness Day. EventFREE includes awareness on OF ELDER ABUSE elder abuse and neglect, and cultural programs. For more information, contact Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust EVENT INCLUDES: 09-6221010 www.shantiniwas.org.nz FREE AWARENESS ON ELDER ABUSE & NEGLECT ENTRY

Matariki Festival 2016 CULTURAL PROGRAMS

Supported by

Date: 18 June to 17 Jul 2016 For more information contact: Time: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust | 09-6221010 | Venue: Region wide www.shantiniwas.org.nz The rising of the Matariki star cluster heralds in Māori New Year and a month-long celebration with more than 100 events across the Auckland region, including

CAB Workshops Health and Safety for Newcomers Date: Saturday, 11 June 2016 Time: 10 am to 12.30 pm Venue: Level 1, 3091 Great North Road, New Lynn Are you a newcomer to New Zealand? Would you like to understand the New Zealand public health service? CAB New Lynn will hold a free information session for newcomers on Health and Safety for Newcomers in New Zealand. Hear from and talk to New Zealand Police about safety in the community. Presenters: Raj Singh of Waitemata District Health Board and Mandeep Kaur, Ethnic Peoples Community Relations Officer of New Zealand Police. Refreshment provided. To register please drop in, call or email at Citizens Advice Bureau New Lynn, Library Building, 3 Memorial Drive, New Lynn, or call 827 7830 or 827 4731, email newlynn@ cab.org.nz.

FEATURES

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 June 2016

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3 June 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

From the desk of

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Three Kiwi women honoured at the Women Economic Forum 2016

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The largest women’s conference around the globe was held in New Delhi from May 16 to 21 IWK Bureau

omen Economic Forum 2016 concluded in New Delhi on May 21. More than 1,200 women from 109 countries gathered at Pullman, New Delhi for a week-long conference from May 16 to 21. The conference was organised by All Ladies League (ALL)—the world’s largest congregation of women with a community of more than 30,000 members and 450 global chapters in 109 countries. The second annual Women Economic Forum was hosted for creating the vision of a more innovative, safer and business-friendly reality for all through the forum delegates who came and exchanged not only their views on the most controversial issues but also solutions to these problems. ALL Women Economic Forum was established by Dr Harbeen Arora in 2015 to bring together women from All Ladies League chapters around the world, and to ask and answer questions pertaining to global women’s issues. As a result of that, Women Economic Forum (WEF) grew to be more than a conference. It is a highly engaged, energetic, and effervescent setting, as it is part of an ongoing movement of women’s greater leadership in the context of ALL. In her welcome speech Dr Arora, Global Chairperson, Women Economic Forum stated, “It is not my individual vision; it has come from all of you to unite humanity. This year you are here on WEF to ignite your inner flame into larger flame. Each one of us is like a pearl. When we unite together it will become a precious necklace. We will expand this energy through this circle [of] Women Economic Forum till we reach the goal. Let’s create an atmosphere and environment with powerful, positive energy intact within during this six days of Women Economic Forum conference to bring change by uplifting and uniting the world through women’s leadership and entrepreneurship.” She concluded her speech saying that there are many obstacles in life, but conversion of obstacle to opportunity is possible by positive energy, which we all are capable of. Let’s do it. It is important to remember that women represent a growth

It is important to remember that women represent a growth market more than twice as big as China and India combined. They control $20 trillion in global consumer spending, own or operate between 25–33% of all private businesses, and earn an estimated $13 trillion on a global scale.

market more than twice as big as China and India combined. They control $20 trillion in global consumer spending, own or operate between 25–33% of all private businesses, and earn an estimated $13 trillion on a global scale. Among invited speakers and guests there was a wide span of expertise in leadership, economics, technology, innovation, health, spirituality, leadership, and research. The attendees at the conference spent six days deliberating how women can uplift and unite the world. There is strength in feminine role models that energises women entrepreneurship and leadership. Women from all walks of lives, from grassroots to top leadership positions, participated in this historical event. Led by the Country Chairperson for New Zealand Annu Sharma, there was a sevenmember delegation from New Zealand that attended the forum. The delegation included Jessica Phuang, Mandeep Kaur, Gurmeeta Singh, Shirley Quan, Valerie Meyer and National MP Parmjeet Parmar. The delegation had a big impact and the sessions presented

Clockwise from left: Mandeep Kaur from NZ Police speaking at the forum; Jo Pennycuick, Managing Director of New Zealand-based Redesign Interior Architecture Ltd accepting her award from Dr Arora; Her Royal Highness Dr Shiekha Hissah Saad AlSabah—Princess of Kuwait, Dr Harbeen Arora and Union Minister Venkaiah Naidu at the opening ceremony of the forum; Minister of Human Resource Development, India, Ms Smriti Irani speaking at the forum; National party MP Dr Parmjeet Parmar accepting her award from Dr Arora Top: New Zealand delegation including Country Chairperson for NZ Annu Sharma, Jessica Phuang, Mandeep Kaur, Gurmeeta Singh, Shirley Quan, Valerie Meyer and National MP Parmjeet Parmar. Above: Annu Sharma, CEO and Founder of I am Woman accepting her award from Dr Harbeen Arora

garnered a great response from the audience. Mandeep Kaur’s presentation on her life journey inspired a large audience. The highlight of the Forum for New Zealand was when three Kiwi women were honoured at the event. Dr Parmar was honoured with Iconic Women Leaders & Policy Makers Creating a Better World for All award alongside other political leaders from the United States, Panama, Spain and the United Kingdom. Jo Pennycuick, Managing Director of New Zealand-based Redesign Interior Architecture Ltd, was awarded the Iconic Business Leader of the Decade award alongside other women business leaders from across the world. Annu Sharma, CEO and Founder of I am Woman, was awarded the Iconic Women Leaders of the Decade Envisioning a United World award alongside other women leaders from other countries.

During this year’s Women Economic Forum, participants also debated and deliberated on globalisation issues and the best ways of uplifting and uniting the world through safety and security. The role of women in maintaining international peace is crucial. If half of the world population still faces problems of discrimination, global peace will be impossible to achieve. The Women Economic Forum debate concentrated on finding new solutions to old problems. Women have been focused on building consensus in peace negotiations process. They intend to build more bridges than walls, yet global conflicts are arising. WEF 2016 postulated for a safer and more secured world for all. Coming together from the grassroots level for a dialogue with leaders in diplomacy, politics, and economy, we can achieve progress. On the final day of WEF conference, Hon. Smt Smriti Irani, Minister of Human Resource Development Government of

India, delivered highly impressive, inspiring, and powerful messages to the conference, which energised and inspired all those who were present. In spite of being the youngest minister under the current government, her confidence in her work and ability and the charisma of her persona was a force to reckon with. She stated, “Women have the DNA not only to lead but [also] to succeed once their mind set is fixed.” Her message was clear: if you want to help, help one illiterate girl or woman to become literate and help her to be independent to lead a happy life. She said that women should get inspired from other’s success stories but should not become copy cats or Xerox. Establish your own way and style. Pave your own path. The Kiwi delegation has come back with some inspirational learning, which they hope to share with other women in the community. The dates for the Women Economic Forum 2017 have already been announced and those wishing to attend, can contact Annu Sharma at annu.sharma@aall.in.

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 June 2016

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FEATURES

ENTERTAINMENT

Missing On A Weekend has no similarities with Talaash: Director

3 June 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

films. I have done with Hrishida, Hrishikesh Mukherjee, but one day when I sat to calculate, I observed that it was Ram Gopal Varma with whom I have done the maximum number of films.” They’ve worked together in several movies such as Sarkar, Darna Zaroori Hai, Nishabd, Ram Gopal Varma Ki Aag and Sarkar Raj, but when Amitabh’s film Bbuddah... Hoga Terra Baap had released in 2011, Varma had used abusive language

Black Mohenjo Daro willOrange be one of my best films: Hrithik

to release Udta Punjab, citing Red “excessive swearing, abusive language and drug consumption” in its content. The film, which stars Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan and Diljit Dosanjh, is a story that revolves around drug abuse in north of Punjab and how the youth there have succumbed to it. The Abhishek Chaubey directorial has been co-produced by Kashyap, Vikramaditya Motwane and Vikas Bahl as part of their Phantom Films banner, along with Shobha Kapoor, Ekta Kapoor, Aman Gill and Sameer Nair. Aman Gill, CEO of Balaji Motion Pictures Ltd, shared, “To set the record straight, Udta Punjab has not been banned. The examining committee has referred the decision to the Revising committee and the due process is on.”

I don’t pick films on the basis of actress’ role: Madhavan

ilm-maker Abhishek Jawkar, who has directed Missing On A Weekend, says that the forthcoming film doesn’t have any similarity with the Aamir Khan-starrer Talaash. “There are no similarities at all with Talaash. The story is completely different. The only similarity is that both involve investigation and solving of a murder mystery,” Jawkar said. “Our story is based in Goa; Talaash was in Mumbai. Our film is about youngsters, while Talaash was not about youngsters. Talaash had a supernatural aspect in it, but our film is completely based on real incidences and about the various crimes that actually happen in the society.” He also shared that there is a good deal of action in his film as compared to Talaash. “I personally believe that it is better to make films on real-life stories instead of concepts such as supernatural elements which no one is sure whether they exist or not. I have full confidence that Missing On A Weekend will be a lot more interesting than Talaash.” Veteran singer Hariharan’s son Karan marks his debut with the film. The story of the film revolves around a group of friends who visit Goa, but incidents one after the other lead to some of them going missing and one person getting killed. Written and directed by Jawkar, the film is jointly presented by The Red Bulb Studios and Adept Films. It will hit the screens on June 24.

Ram Gopal Varma a dear friend, never had any problem: Amitabh

to describe his performance. Although the duo then worked together in Department the next year, it is reported that there were problems between them and they haven’t worked together after it. Varma has confirmed Sarkar 3 and said that he would style the megastar as per today’s fashion trends. Amitabh said, “I’m in talks with him for Sarkar 3. We’ll be sitting on the script and it’s possible that he’ll start it soon.”

dta Punjab is not banned, the Bollywood film’s makers have said following reports that the censor board gave a no-permit for the release of the movie, which is about drug trafficking in Punjab. Film-maker Anurag Kashyap, the movie’s co-producer, on Saturday, May 28, took to social media to put an end to rumours surrounding the ban on the film. “A film is banned only when examining, revising and (Film Certification Appellate Tribunal) FCAT—all three refuse certificate. And then you fight it out in Supreme Court.

“And due process takes it own time, so please abstain for spreading a BAN rumour. There is nothing to speak on the subject as of now. For the record, Udta Punjab is not banned. The examining committee has deferred the decision to Revising and due process is on,” he tweeted. According to multiple media reports, the country’s Central Board of Film Certification gave a complete no-permit

Kay Kay Menon’s next based on Indian Emergency era

Udta Punjab not banned, say makers

egastar Amitabh Bachchan says that he never had any problem with his “dear friend”, director Ram Gopal Varma with whom he’s currently discussing film Sarkar 3. Asked, at the music launch of his film Te3n, about his “tension” with Varma, he said, “First of all, there was no problem between us. Can you tell me the role of tension? And what is tension, [and] then perhaps I’ll be able to give you the correct answer. There are various roles of tension. If I’m talking this way with you, even you can think I’m creating tension with you. “There is nothing like that. He is a dear friend of mine; I like to work with him. I have done numerous films with him. Once upon a time I used to think that the most of my

. Madhavan says he is often questioned about his female costars walking away with awards instead of him, but the actor is not bothered about it. He says he doesn’t opt for films on the basis of the length of an actress’ role. This year, Kangana Ranaut clinched the National Film Award in the Best Actress category for her superlative dual act in Tanu Weds Manu Returns, and martial artist-turned-actress Ritika Singh won the National Award in the Special Mention category for the “gutsy performance” of a boxer in Irudhi Suttru (Saala Khadoos). Madhavan was the male protagonist in both the films. He said, “Everyone keeps

ctor Hrithik Roshan’s Mohenjo Daro is all set to hit the screens on August 12 and the actor says this film is going to be one of his best. “I am travelling back into time and it’s been a great journey and a great experience working with this film Mohenjo Daro. I believe it’s going to be one of my best films and I hope the audience will also agree with me when they see the film,” he said. Starring Hrithik, debutant Pooja Hegde and veteran actor Kabir Bedi, the movie is an epic adventure-romance, set in the ancient city of Mohenjodaro, which now falls in Pakistan’s Sindh province, in the era of the Indus Valley civilisation that dates back to 2600 BC. The movie marks Gowariker’s second collaboration with Hrithik after 2008 film Jodhaa Akbar.

on telling me that heroines have a role of greater importance in my films that they even walk away with awards (hinting at National Film Awards). But the point is that I don’t select films on that basis. “I have never thought to take films where they have small or irrelevant roles. Such type of stories don’t interest me.” Madhavan shared his views while hosting a gala event to mark the completion of two years of the Narendra Modi government. The actor went on to say, “If some director tells me that I have to slap a female star for a scene, then I drop that film only. I have never raised my hand on women— onscreen as well.” Madhavan, who looked sophisticated in a black kurta and white pyjama teamed up well with a white stole, feels his outlook is all about conditioning. “I think all this is about conditioning, how you are raised, your surroundings. My mother was an empowered woman, and my sister got what I got. I never felt that they are less than us.”

ctor Kay Kay Menon, who has portrayed a variety of characters in his over two decade-long journey in the Indian entertainment industry, will next be seen in Sann Pachattar, which will be based on the Emergency era in the country. “The film is absolutely a visual and audio symphony. It is the first true political period thriller of Indian cinema. I am happy I am a part of this film and played the most layered and myriad character of my career till date,” Menon said in a statement. “It took me nearly six months to get into the skin and psyche of the character and to get the crisis right,” he added. Sann Pachattar will be directed by Tamanchey fame Navneet Behal. “The Emergency period lasted from June 1975 to March 1977 and is one of the darkest periods of Indian history. We learn true lessons of life only from history and I decided to make a film based on some unknown and uncovered events during the period of emergency,” Kabir Lovee, who is producing the film under his Pehle Aap Motion Pictures banner, said. “It’s a fun film and is entertaining and stimulating at the same time. It is not preachy and heavy like most films have been on the supposed unfortunate event. It is a very well balanced film and will teleport you instantly to the 1970s. It’s sensible yet is entertaining and rambles us into a trip,” Lovee added.

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 June 2016

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ENTERTAINMENT

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3 June 2016 | www.iwk.co.nz

Theatre and beyond

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Most Kiwis will recognise Nisha Madhan as Shanti Kumari from Shortland Street. In the years following her departure from the prime-time soap opera, Madhan’s passion for theatre and television was seen in the many plays she directed and the numerous roles she played. In 2009, she founded the cult art collective Future Hotel with Stephen Bain that delivers public performances. Madhan is the artistic director of The Town Centre, a deconstructionist theatre company that has created contemporary and critically acclaimed works. She is currently touring the country with Indian Ink theatre company for its recent production The Elephant Thief. Indian Weekender spoke to Madhan to know more about upcoming play and her association with Indian Ink. Esha Chanda And I have a special place in my heart for young Daisy from Kiss the Fish.

IWK: This is your second production with Indian Ink, the first being Kiss the Fish. How has your experience been so far? Nisha: I love the work that Indian Ink makes and always have a lot of fun with them. The rehearsal room is often full of laughter and warmth. Their work is charming and sweet, and Jacob Rajan is a total dream to work with. As a teenager, I remember a family friend taking me to see Krishnan’s Dairy because she knew I wanted to become an actor. I remember thinking the show was clever and thoughtful and hoped that one day I could work with Jacob. Lucky me that it came true! IWK: What do you think the audience can take away from The Elephant Thief? Nisha: The audience will take away lots of laughter and fun. They will feel involved and will no doubt find beauty and wonder in the show. The show asks you to consider the future and the world we are leaving behind. There are some interesting questions about extinction in there but delivered in the signature Indian Ink way— with oodles of charm.

IWK: You stayed in India before you moved to New Zealand. How do you think the two different cultures have influenced you as an artist?

Nisha Madhan

Photo credit: John McDermott Above: Jacob Rajan and Nisha Madhan in Kiss The Fish. Right: Madhan in The Elephant Thief. Inset: Nisha Madhan

IWK: You are playing three key roles in The Elephant Thief. How similar/diverse are they? Nisha: I play three very different roles. One is a policewoman who is clownish. The other is an Indian/French queen who is quite eccentric, and the last one is Sonia Ambardhi, the future Prime Minister of India. It is a rare treat to be given three fantastic, meaty roles to play. I especially enjoy Sonia, as it is not often that I get to play a high-status character. My

experience of playing Indian characters in New Zealand is that they are often cast as innocent, naive characters. So it is nice to play a character who is fierce and powerful for a change. IWK: What are your views on the theatre culture in New Zealand? Nisha: It is becoming more and more vibrant by the second. There is plenty to get involved in and it is fantastic. Personally, I’m drawn to work that is a little offbeat. I love the scene at The Basement

in Auckland. They support artists who are making bold, risky work. I also love the scene in Wellington at the moment with companies such as Binge Culture Collective and Barbarian Productions who inspire me a great deal. IWK: What are some of the most memorable characters that you’ve played? Nisha: I loved playing Imogen in Cymbeline, which was directed by Stuart Devenie. It was a wonderful production that taught me a lot and one of the few leading roles I have been fortunate enough to play. I love working with my husband Stephen Bain (who also designed The Elephant Thief).

Nisha: I think India encouraged me to be intensely passionate and New Zealand has inspired me to walk to the beat of my own drum. To be honest, I don’t identify as coming from one country more than the other. I grew up in different places and as such my work reflects my position in the world as someone whose culture is not defined by their country but by the company they keep. IWK: Any other exciting projects in the pipeline? Nisha: At the moment, I am focussing on getting some rest before the next Indian Ink tour in 2017, but first I need to complete my Honour year in Theatre Studies at Auckland University; so it’s back to school for me! The Elephant Thief can be seen in New Plymouth from June 9 to 11 and in Auckland from June 15 to July 2. More info and tickets from www.indianink.co.nz

In-car entertainment to be driven by your smartphone Mahesh K

ou know that using your phone while driving is a bad idea. It is distracting and puts the lives of everyone inside the car at risk. So if you can’t live without glancing at your smartphone every other minute, or texting your mates, checking your inbox or posting on Facebook, worry not, the hub of your digital life now lives on your car’s dashboard too. Smartphone giants Apple and Google now offer ways to access your smartphone features while driving safely. Apple’s CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto lets you access communication, entertainment and navigation features of your smartphone without looking at it by simply connecting the smartphone to your car’s infotainment system (provided your car supports one of these, of course). Since Apple and Google announced their in-car, almost every major car manufacturer has announced support for either or both of these systems. Some of the first ones were Hyundai, Skoda, VW and BMW. While both systems enable your car’s infotainment system to be used as display and controller for

Apple’s CarPlay and Google’s Android Auto lets you access communication, entertainment and navigation features

the respective smartphones, there are some inherent differences in the features and the functionality they offer. Let’s take a look at them.

Android Auto

oogle introduced Android Auto at Google I/O 2014. At this year’s Google I/O, it unveiled a major upgrade with an Android N variant that uses Waze traffic app as its navigation system replacing its default Google Map application. The system, which incorporates Google Now, learns your daily routine, driving habits,

etc. and accordingly provides information for the drive. Android Auto lets you access navigation, telephony, entertainment and notifications on the go without reaching for your phone. The updated Android Auto works even on an older vehicle or one that does not have a compatible touchscreen interface. Google has also opened up the Android Auto API to let developers create a whole new wave of apps that can provide enhanced functionality. Carmakers can modify and customise UI elements for their systems. Android Auto uses Google Maps or Waze, which is a powerful navigation system with updated information about traffic conditions on your route and even alternative routes if you want to avoid traffic.

Android Auto provides a good number of entertainment options. Google Play Music has picked up momentum recently, and if you are a subscriber, you get access to all your music in the car. Alternatively, you can choose Spotify if that’s your preferred choice of music platform. With Android Auto, you can also use “OK Google” to give voice commands to the system to read out your messages, dictate a new message, place a call, etc.

Apple CarPlay

pple announced CarPlay system in 2013. Like Android Auto, it uses the car screen as a mirrored display for the iPhone. You can control the essential apps on your phones by using the touchscreen display on the car.

It uses the same grid of square icons as on iPhone UI for the car home screen. For navigation, Apple CarPlay ditches Google Maps and uses its own Maps app. While it is good, it is no match for the simplicity and power of Google Maps. In terms of audio entertainment, Apple CarPlay offers Apple Music, which is great. Other options include iTunes Radio, Spotify, and few other podcast and radio apps. In case you need any assistance, Siri comes to the rescue and you can use voice commands just like you do on your phone. While both systems are fairly new and do not offer a perfect incar system, they are being updated regularly and new features are getting added. So the next time you get an itch to check your messages while driving, don’t whip out your phone. Just call out for your digital assistant.

FEATURES

www.iwk.co.nz | 3 June 2016

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