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Vin Diesel to visit India on January 12 Details on page 9

VOL 22, No. 1162

January 6, 2017

50¢

Special Edition

PM WARNS OF RISE IN DISRUPTIVE TECH

Reforms to be highlighted at PBD Bengaluru

Niranjan C. Shah

Community leader Shah passes away Details on page 24

NRIs to show old notes to Customs Details on page 7

2017 Stars speak for India and USA

Details on page 9

British-Indian professor knighted

Details on page 62

India successfully test fires Agni-IV missile

Details on page 8

Top military post for Indian in Kyrgyzstan

Details on page 8

CONTENTS Bollywood ---------------------- 36-37

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Classifieds ------------------------- 66 Community Post -------------- 24-29

INDIA POST SURVEY

BOOST FOR SCIENCE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi being presented a memento at the inauguration of 104th Indian Science Congress program at Sri Venkateswara University in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh on January 3

survey@indiapost.com This week’s question

Can India check fraud in digital technology?

Last week’s result

Do you agree with Trump’s criticism of UN? YES 63%

NO 37%

Date Book -------------------------- 48 Edit Page --------------------------- 68 HealthScience Post --------- 44-47

TIRUPATI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has exhorted scientists to keep an eye on the rise of disruptive technologies even as he underlined government's commitment to supporting different streams ranging from fundamental science to applied science with emphasis on innovations.

In his address at the inauguration of the 104th session of the Indian Science Congress, Modi listed "rapid global rise of Cyber-Physical Systems" as one important area

that needed to be addressed, saying it has potential to pose unprecedented challenges and stresses on the demographic dividend.

"But we can turn it into a huge opportunity by research, training and skilling in robotics, artificial intelligence, digital manufacturing, big data analysis, deep learning, quantum communication and Internet-of-Things.

Certified by “CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL Readership 117,765”

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Horoscope ------------------------- 30 Immigration Post ------------- 58-61 Life Style ----------------------- 40-43 Perspective -------------------- 64-65 Philosophy ------------------------- 67 Publisher’s Diary ------------------ 5 Real Estate -------------------- 56-57 TechBiz Post ------------------- 11-15 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 50-54

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Publisher’s Diary

W

ish you all a very happy New Year! Well, I wanted to get the happi ness out before I give in to cynicism that the world is likely to see in 2017 more of the same of what we saw in 2016 - an eminently forgettable year. Forgetting 2016 might well be a difficult prospect considering the many strings that will continue to unspool in the coming months and years - like, the new Presidency.

I am not among the many losers who routinely make New Year's resolutions which they can't keep. But this New Year's eve, I made a serious resolution to sharpen my sense of humor. A hack to deal with the shenanigans of the new President I guess all need to do is to turn on an imaginary laugh track, especially if his tweets and unofficial keep-them-guessing statements continue to be of similar port and spice as they are now.

One can argue that it might be tough to see the funny side of a situation like an ISIS attack or a North Korean missile threat, or an escalation of conflict in the Middle East, especially a rise in tensions between Israel and Palestine, or a fresh nuke build up in the world, or for that matter a cozy bromance between US and Russia.

Since the end of the cold war, I have indulged myself the hope of a world where the US and Russia are friends, of a world where they found a safe system to bury their nuclear stockpiles, used their collective military might to keep the rest of the world settling into a de facto order of peace.

Somehow however, a mutual admiration society populated by Trump and Putin does not seem to project a rose-tinted future.

At home, I do wish for the Americans - the hopeless and the hopefuls alike - that in the New Year, they survive gun attacks, keep their job and health insurance, marry their partner of choice, continue to enjoy discount sales on cheap made-in-China wearables, pump gas at under two dollars, and remember to keep that laugh track handy when watching cable news networks.

Cheers!

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2 great thugs YRF's 'Thugs of Hindostan' will bring Amitabh Bachchan and Aamir Khan together for the first time.

Cover Story: Disruptive tech Addressing Indian Science Congress, PM Modi exhorts scientists to keep an eye on the rise of disruptive technologies

Community: Shah passes away Community Sevak and erudite Jain scholar Niranjan C Shah breathed his last in Chicagoland last week

Immigration:

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PM warns of rise in disruptive tech TIRUPATI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has exhorted scientists to keep an eye on the rise of disruptive technologies even as he underlined government's commitment to supporting different streams ranging from fundamental science to applied science with emphasis on innovations.

In his address at the inauguration of the 104th session of the

ing, quantum communication and Internet-of-Things.

"There is a need to develop and exploit these technologies in services and manufacturing sectors; in agriculture, water, energy and traffic management, health, environment, security, infrastructure and Geo Information Systems, financial systems and in combating crime," he said.

Building a strong science and technology infrastructure that is accessible to academia, start-ups, industry and R&D labs is a priority of the government, he said, adding they need to address problems of ease of access, maintenance, redundancy and duplication Indian Science Congress, Modi listed "rapid global rise of CyberPhysical Systems" as one important area that needed to be addressed, saying it has potential to pose unprecedented challenges and stresses on the demographic dividend.

"But we can turn it into a huge opportunity by research, training and skilling in robotics, artificial intelligence, digital manufacturing, big data analysis, deep learn-

The speed and scale of changes encountered today are unprecedented, he said.

"My government is committed to supporting different streams of scientific knowledge; ranging from fundamental science to applied science with emphasis on innovations.

Some of these important challenges are in the key sectors of clean water & energy, food, environment, climate, security, and

health care," he said.

Building a strong science and technology infrastructure that is accessible to academia, start-ups, industry and R&D labs is a priority of the government, he said, adding they need to address problems of ease of access, maintenance, redundancy and duplication of expensive equipments in scientific institutions.

"The desirability of establishing professionally managed, large regional centers in PPP mode housing high value scientific equipment should be examined," he said. Noting that SCOPUS database indicates that India ranks sixth in the world with respect to scientific publications and is growing at a rate of about 14 per cent against the world average of about 4 per cent, Modi said by 2030 India will be among the top three countries in science and technology and will be among the most attractive destinations for the best talent in the world.

Scopus is a bibliographic database containing abstracts and citations for academic journal articles.

He asked institutions to consider inviting outstanding scientists from abroad including NRIs

for long term research associations. "We should involve foreign and NRI PhD students in postdoctoral research in our projects," he said.

Science must meet the rising

technology a strong tool of inclusive development and betterment of the weakest and poorest segments of our society, he said ministries, scientists, R&D institutions, industries, start-ups, uni-

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing at the inauguration of the 104th Session of the Indian Science Congress, at Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh on January 03

aspirations of our people, he said, asserting that problems of urbanrural divide and work for inclusive development, economic growth and employment generation must be addressed through it.

Seeking to make science and

versities and IITs, all should work together seamlessly.

"In particular, our infrastructure and socio-economic ministries must make appropriate use of science and technology," he said. -PTI

NRIs to show old notes to Customs NEW DELHI: NRIs and Indians returning from abroad will have to physically show the junked 500 and 1,000 rupee notes to Customs officials at the airport and get a declaration form stamped before they can deposit

the demonetized currency in RBI during the grace period.

The Indians who were abroad during the 50-day window provided from November 9 to December 30 to deposit the old currency have been given a 3-month grace

period till March 31 and NRIs 6 months till June 30 to deposit the junked notes at RBI's offices in Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, and Nagpur.

"For the period from up to March 31, 2017 or June 30, 2017,

as applicable, a declaration form will need to be filled by resident Indians and non-resident Indians coming to India and carrying Specified Bank Notes (SBNs) for depositing these SBNs in the specified offices of RBI in India," a finance ministry notification said.

A 1-page form has been worked out for the purpose.

"The Customs officer shall strictly count the number of notes and tally the total amount men-

Indians abroad will have to produce a "copy of passport with immigration stamp as proof of the individual's absence from the country during the period November 9, 2016, to December 30, 2016" as also copies of all bank account statements evidencing that no SBNs of 500 and 1,000 rupees were deposited during the 50-day window.

Valid ID proof and Aadhaar number along with the applicant's KYC-compliant bank account de-

Indians abroad will have to produce a "copy of passport with immigration stamp as proof of the individual's absence from the country during the period Nov 9 to Dec 30, 2016"

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying obeisance at Tirumala Temple, in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh on January 3

tioned before stamping the form submitted by the passenger," the notification said.

While there is no limit on deposit of SBNs by an Indian national who was abroad when the 50-day window was in operation, NRIs can deposit only Rs 25,000, an RBI notification said.

However, this facility is not available for Indian citizens resident in Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan and Bangladesh, a separate notification added.

tails are also to be submitted, it said.

"On ascertaining that the tenderer was abroad during the period from November 9, 2016 and December 30, 2016, the account is KYC compliant, fulfillment of other conditions and the genuineness of the notes tendered, admissible amount will be credited to the account under advice to the tenderer," the RBI notification said.

Cont’d on page 9

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India successfully test fires Agni-IV BALASORE, Odisha: India has successfully test-fired its nuclearcapable strategic ballistic missile Agni-IV with a strike range of 4000 km as part of a user trial from a test range off Odisha coast.

Supported by a mobile launcher, the surface-to-surface missile was flight tested from launch complex-4 of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Dr Abdul Kalam Island, formerly known as Wheeler Island, at about 11.55 hours, Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) sources said.

Describing the trial as successful, they said this was the 6th trial of the indigenously developed Agni-IV missile which met the mission objectives. The last trial conducted by the specially formed strategic force command (SFC) of Indian Army on November 9, 2015 was also successful.

The sleek missile having 4000 km strike range is a two stage missile. It is 20 meter-long weighing 17 tonnes.

"The sophisticated surface-tosurface missile is equipped with modern and compact avionics to

provide high level of reliability," DRDO sources said.

Agni-IV missile is equipped with state-of-the-art Avionics, 5th generation on board computer and distributed architecture. It has the

latest features to correct and guide itself for in-flight disturbances.

The most accurate Ring Laser

Gyro based Inertial Navigation System (RINS) and supported by highly reliable redundant Micro Navigation System (MINGS), ensures the vehicle reaches the target within two digit accuracy, they said.

The re-entry heat shield can withstand temperatures in the range of 4000 degree centigrade and makes sure the avionics function normally with inside temperature remaining less than 50 degree centigrade. Ballistic missiles like Agni-I, II and III and Prithvi are already in the arsenal of armed forces, giving India an effective deterrence capability.

Radars and electro-optical systems had been positioned along the coast of Odisha for tracking and monitoring all the parameters of the missile, the sources said, adding two Indian naval ships anchored near the target area to witness the final event.

The successful trial of Agni IV came close on the heels of a similar test on December 26, 2016 of long range missile Agni 5 which was successfully carried out from the same launch site. -PTI

Top military post for Indian in Kyrgyzstan DUBAI: An Indian-origin Saudi-based entrepreneur has been appointed Major General of Kyrgyzstan, a rare military position occupied by an Indian in the Central Asian country.

Shaikh Rafik Mohammed, who hails from Kerala, was appointed Major General of Kyrgyzstan by Ali Mirza, Defense Minister of Kyrgyzstan at an official ceremony held in the country, Khaleej Times reported.

It is a rare military position occupied by an overseas Keralite, said Omar Abu Baker, media adviser of Rafik.

Rafik, whose family resides in Dubai, holds Kyrgyzstan nationality conferred by its former President Kurmanbek Saliyevich Bakiyev whom he casually met in his 20s while working in Iran, the report said.

Rafik was invited by the Kyrgyzstan government to take up the prestigious military posi-

tion in view of his earlier contribution to the country.

"Rafik left Kerala at a young age and he could complete only his primary school education. He went to Mumbai where the young man learnt all the tricks of busi-

Shaikh Rafik Mohammed

ness and from there to the Middle East. He has worked in the UAE, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Kyrgyzstan," his media adviser added.

He migrated from Calicut in Kerala before completing his fifthgrade schooling culminated in his recent appointment as Major General of Kyrgyzstan, the report said.

While there are scores of successful business tycoons in the region, this could well be the first time a Malayali has occupied a top military leadership of a foreign country.

Rafik earlier worked as an adviser to the former Kyrgyzstan President Kurmanbek Saliyevich Bakiyev whom he met in Iran where the young Indian entrepreneur was developing a major steel plant.

After selling the successful project to the Iranian government, Rafik went to Kyrgyzstan and presented a similar project to Kurmanbek, then a governor who was preparing to contest presidential elections.

After Kurmanbek won the election, he appointed young Rafik as his chief adviser - a milestone in his career in his mid-twenties.-PTI

British-Indian professor knighted by Queen LONDON: Shankar Balasubramanian, an Indian- origin British professor of chemistry and DNA expert at Cambridge University, has received a Knighthood along with Olympic stars Andy Murray and Mo Farah among others by Queen Elizabeth II for their contributions.

Balasubramanian, 50, Herchel Smith Professor of Medicinal Chemistry at Cambridge Univer-

professionals are also included in the honors list, including Knights Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for Hardip Singh Begol of the UK's Department for Education for services to education; Kamaldeep Singh Bhui, Professor of cultural psychiatry and epidemiology at Queen Mary University of London for services to mental health research and care.

Shankar Balasubramanian

sity, has been recognized for his Neena Gill, Member of the Euwork as a co-inventor of Next Gen- ropean Parliament for the West eration DNA sequencing, de- Midlands for parliamentary and scribed as the most transforma- political service, Ravindra Pragji tional advance in biology and Govindia of Wandsworth Bormedicine for decades. ough Council for services to local "Solexa sequencing, as it is government and the community now known, allows an individual in Wandsworth, London and genome to be sequenced in a day Anita Thapar from the Institute of or two at a cost of less than 1,000 Psychological Medicine and Clinipounds; previously, sequencing cal Neurosciences at Cardiff Unithe human genome took years of versity for services to child and work and cost billions. His work adolescent psychiatry are also has spawned an entirely new dis- included in the list. cipline of Bioinformatics," his ciIndian-origin Officers of the tation reads.

Order of the British Empire (OBEs) "More recently, he has made include Poonam Gupta, Chief Exmajor contributions to understanding the role of DNA-quadruplexes Balasubramanian, 50, in cancer and invented Herchel Smith Professor of a method for the se- Medicinal Chemistry at quencing of epigenetic modifications," his cita- Cambridge University, has tion reads. been recognized for his Murray, Farah and work as a co-inventor of British track and field athlete Jessica Ennis- Next Generation DNA Hill are among others sequencing honored in the 2017 New Year Honors list, which also ecutive Officer of PG Paper Comincludes big names from the en- pany Ltd, for services to Business tertainment world, including ac- and charity; Dr Brinder Singh tors Mark Rylance and Patricia Mahon, Chief Executive Officer of Routledge.

Nishkam School Trust, for services Rio 2016 men's tennis cham- to education; Yorkshire prison ofpion Murray and double gold- ficer Avtar Singh Purewal for serwinning athlete Farah receive vices to prisoners; and Jasvir Singh, Knighthoods, while heptathlete founding chair of City Sikhs, for Ennis-Hill becomes a Dame. voluntary service to faith commuA host of other Indian-origin nities and social cohesion. -PTI

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Economic reforms to be highlighted at PBD NEW DELHI: Latest wave of economic reforms including overhaul of indirect taxes through proposed GST will be projected significantly by the government at the three-day Pravasi Bhartiya Divas (PBD) beginning January 7 at Bengaluru to woo overseas Indian investors and make them part of India's growth story.

Karnataka Government Gaurav Gupta said a probe was on and insisted the city is one of the safest in India.

The valedictory session on January 9 will be addressed by President Pranab Mukherjee who will also confer Pravasi Bharatiya Samman to eminent overseas Indians.

The convention, being held biennially for the first time instead of earlier annual versions, will aim at redefining India's engagement with its 3.12 crore strong Diaspora in diverse spheres including innovation, start-ups, tourism and education.

On January 7, a youth PBD will be held with a focus on encouraging Diaspora youths to reconnect with their Indian roots and the event will formally be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 8, Secretary (Overseas Indian Affairs) Dnyaneshwar M Mulay told a press conference.

Mulay said government will project various reforms initiatives as well as schemes aimed at spurring economic growth at the convention and a separate exhibition on them will also highlight the measures.

Asked whether delegates from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir will

Prime Minister of Portugal Antonio Costa will be the Chief Guest at the 14th PBD which will be attended by over 4,000 delegates from across the globe. 36year-old Vice -President of Suriname Michael Ashwin Satyandre Adhin will be the Special Guest at the Youth PBD. A number of senior Union Ministers and Chief Ministers of at least eight states have confirmed their participation at the convention.

The PBD was launched by Atal Bihari Vajpayee government in 2003 to step up India's engagement with its Diaspora and the congregation of NRIs and Persons of India origins had continued as an annual event till 2015. Last year, the government had decided to make it a biennial event.

January 9 is the main day of PBD as it was on this day in 1915 that Mahatma Gandhi, the "greatest Pravasi", returned to India from South Africa and led India's

Prime Minister of Portugal Antonio Costa will be the Chief Guest at the 14th PBD which will be attended by over 4,000 delegates from across the globe. 36-year-old Vice -President of Suriname Michael Ashwin Satyandre Adhin will be the Special Guest at the Youth PBD attend the conclave, he said PBD is an open event and people from Indian territory including PIO and NRIs can seek online registration.

Pressed further on whether people from PoK have applied for registration, he said there was no such information.

To queries on alleged incidents of molestation in Bengaluru during New Year celebrations, days ahead of the prestigious convention, Industries Commissioner of

freedom struggle.

The organizers have developed a mobile app to help delegates navigate various events and programs at the convention.

Mulay said decisions of previous PBDs were thoroughly deliberated upon in 10 sessions and major initiatives and outcomes will be presented before the plenary at the upcoming PBD and thereafter larger engagement with the Diaspora will be held. The deci-

sions will be forwarded to concerned departments and ministries.

Replying to a question, another MEA official said an earlier proposal to set up a PIO university in India has been dropped.

Asked whether government was looking at addressing grievances of Girmitiya people on issuance of PIO cards, Mulay said various recommendations in this regard has been under consideration.

The Girmitya people had petitioned the government saying only three or four generations were being issued PIO cards and the limit should be extended further.

Girmityas are descendants of indentured Indian laborers who are settled in countries like Mauritius and Fiji.

The topics for discussions at plenary sessions include - realizing India's development vision, partnering with Diaspora to accelerate tourism in the country and India as a global health and wellness hub.

The PBD will have provisions for business-to-business meetings and delegates will have opportunities to talk to senior officials of various departments as well as Ministers and Chief Ministers.-PTI

Vin Diesel to visit India on Jan 12 MUMBAI: Actress Deepika Padukone has confirmed that her "xXx: Return of the Xander Cage" co-star Vin Diesel will visit India on January 12.

The 30-year-old star, who will mark her Hollywood debut with "xXx: Return of the Xander Cage",

atres on January 14.

Deepika is in the role of a huntress, Serena Unger in the film that also stars Donnie Yen, Nina Dobrev, Ruby Rose and Samuel L Jackson.

The actress earlier said that she was proud to represent her coun-

Vin Diesel with Deepika Padukone

shared the news on Twitter, by posting a special message to Diesel in Hindi.

"Vin, India is eagerly waiting for you. See you soon on January 12 and 13. Lots of love," she wrote alongside the poster of the film.

Directed by D J Caruso, the action-thriller will hit Indian the-

try in the Hollywood franchise.

"I am very excited. This is my Hollywood debut. I am very, very nervous, but also excited. Today is the beginning of that journey. I feel very proud that I get to represent my country especially in this kind of an action franchise film." PTI

Tax grievances to be resolved in 30 days NEW DELHI: In what could come as good news for taxpayers in the New Year, the Income Tax department has asked its officials to resolve their grievances within 30 days time.

The department's new wing called the 'Directorate of Tax Payer Services' has asked all the regional heads of the I-T to ensure that "there are no grievances aged more than 30 days pending at any level" pertaining to complaints of refunds, PAN issues and other Income Tax-related subjects.

In a communication, the Directorate has also underlined the fact that Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his review meetings in this regard has "stressed upon adhering to the timeline of 30 days for the redressal of a particular grievance".

"One of the major reasons for delay in the grievance redressal is failure to identify competent officer to redress the grievance and lack of knowledge of recent circulars or instructions," the communication said, adding if the person (tax official) dealing with the grievance identifies the com-

petent I-T authority, "a lot of time can be saved".

The Directorate has also directed the taxman that in case the grievance does not pertain to the authority directed by the CBDT, it "should be transferred back in not more than five days time."

The Directorate, nodal wing for all taxpayer grievances pan-India,

Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) processes in Ghaziabad near here, should be intimated in case the issue requires their intervention.

"Sometimes the Assessing Authority fails to understand the processes and sends back the grievance to a wrong person. All these issues can be addressed if the assessing officer or the concerned

"One of the major reasons for delay in the grievance redressal is failure to identify competent officer to redress the grievance and lack of knowledge of recent circulars or instructions," has suggested that the official handling the grievance should give "due attention to the grievance at hand" and ensure that the required action is undertaken without any delay.

The communication added that any action like referring the matter to the Bengaluru-based Central Processing Centre (CPC) of the I-T department (where I-T Returns are e-filed) or a similar centre for

authority gives due attention to the grievance at hand," it said.

It noted that regular monitoring of grievances via the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) by the field formations of the department has resulted in "better performance" by the department and the number of such issues pending between 181-365 days has "substantially gone down." -PTI

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Ready for 2-front war, says Army Chief NEW DELHI: Army Chief General Bipin Rawat has said his force is prepared for a two-front war involving Pakistan and China simultaneously but emphasized on the need to look at cooperation and not confrontation with Beijing.

His remarks came days after Beijing raised eyebrows over India testing 5000 km-range Agni 5 missile which has entire China within its reach.

"As far as armed forces are concerned, we are tasked to be prepared for a two-front war and I think we are capable of carrying out our task in whatever manner that we may be asked to do by the political hierarchy," Gen Rawat told NewsX channel.

General Rawat said as far as the northern border is concerned, army has adopted certain mechanism to ensure that a harmonious relationship is maintained along the Line of Actual Control.

He referred to four border personnel meetings that took place at the LAC on the very day.

"This is to ensure that while we may be competing with each other for space, economic development, prosperity, there are also areas of cooperation. And I think

that should be our focus area.

Rather than looking at confrontation, we need to look at cooperation with China," he said.

Rafale fighter aircraft, new vessels and submarines, Raha had said India is "obviously building up" capability not to actually fight a

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat

Just before his retirement last month, Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, who was also the Chairman, Chief of Staff Committee, had said India was only building its deterrent capability.

Referring to large-scale modernization activities along the borders with China, purchase of

"That's because we have never let go of a belief that has guided us ever since our founding - our conviction that, together, we can change this country for the better."

President Obama has said that while he won't weigh in on every issue once he is out of the White House, he would consider speaking up about issues that go to "core questions" about American

NEW DELHI: Congress has welcomed the Supreme Court decision which outlawed seeking votes in the name of religion, saying it reaffirms the fundamental values on which the nation was founded.

Asked about the judgment, Congress spokesperson Manish Tewari said the question should have been best directed at the BJP. "But, on a more serious note, it is an excellent decision, it is a decision which should be welcomed by everybody," he said.

Tewari said the decision reaffirms the fundamental values on which this Nation was cast by the founders of the Indian Constitution.

These fundamental values are: to build an egalitarian society, to build a society which is above caste, creed, region, religion or faith; to have a clear separation

thinking Indian must welcome it.

Why should religion, caste, region or every other parochial instinct be invoked in order to garner votes in a democracy, it is the complete anti-thesis of those noble values on which this country was built and therefore, Hon'ble Supreme Court's decision is more than welcome," he said.

In a majority 4:3 verdict, the Supreme Court had held that any appeal for votes on the ground of "religion, race, caste, community or language" amounted to "corrupt practice" under the election law provision.

Referring to the term 'his religion' used in section 123(3) of the Representation of The Peoples (RP) Act, which deals with 'corrupt practice', Chief Justice T S Thakur and three others said it meant the religion and caste of all including voters, candidates and

between religion and State, he said.

He said these lines have blurred in the march of this country over the last 67-68 years.

"So, therefore, every right-

their agents etc.

In its ruling in a case related to the election of a Shiv Sena leader, the Supreme Court had in 1995 said Hindutva is a "way of life and not religion". -PTI

conflict as it believes in peace and tranquility. In a candid admission in March last year, Raha had said that given the IAF's depleting strength, it does not have the adequate numbers to "fully execute" an air campaign in case of a twofront war involving Pakistan and China simultaneously. -PTI

Obama to deliver farewell address in Chicago WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama has said he will deliver his farewell address to the nation on January 10 from his home city of Chicago, thanking the American people for the "amazing journey" he had during the last eight years.

"I'm thinking about them as a chance to say thank you for this amazing journey, to celebrate the ways you've changed this country for the better these past eight years, and to offer some thoughts on where we all go from here," Obama said in a statement.

Obama, 55, said he was following the precedent set by George Washington, who penned a farewell address to the American people over 220 years ago, the CNN reported.

George W Bush also delivered a farewell address in 2009 from the White House. "Since 2009, we've faced our fair share of challenges, and come through them stronger," Obama said.

Congress says SC verdict is excellent

values and ideals.

Chicago is where President Obama got his start in politics after graduating from Harvard Law School and where the first family called home before moving to the White House.

Obama's presidential library will also be located in Chicago.

President-elect Donald Trump will be sworn in to office on January 20.

During his campaign for the White House, Trump pledged to undo many of Obama s signature policy measures, including his healthcare law.

Obama, who campaigned hard for Trump s Democratic opponent Hillary Clinton, has sought to ensure a smooth transition of power despite major policy differences with his successor. -PTI

Mission in Saudi to help arrested national NEW DELHI: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has directed Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia to take up with the Saudi government the arrest of an Indian engineer from Telangana for allegedly posting a "blasphemous" photo on social media.

"I have asked our Ambassador in Saudi Arabia to take this up with the Saudi Government @IndianEmbRiyadh," she tweeted.

Her response came after one Naseema Khan brought the case of Shankar Ponnam who was arrested by Riyadh police nearly one-and-half months back.

Ponnam, who is in his 40s and works as an agricultural engineer,

allegedly posted on Facebook a doctored photo of the Kaaba, a sacred site in Islam.

He is from Jagtial district in Telangana and is an employee with a farm in Tameer district of Al-Majmaah region.

Ponnam offended the sentiments of Muslims by posting the photo of holy Kaaba and his act triggered a social media outcry and condemnation, Col. Fawaz Al-Maiman, spokesman for Riyadh Police, was quoted as saying by local media in Riyadh.PTI

More top stories on pages 16-20

Tech News Robotic supermarket of future is here

M

achine learning, swarm robotics, autonomous delivery vehicles-this is the future of buying your groceries, and it's coming sooner than you think.

Ocado, the world's largest onlineonly grocery store, already stocks 48,000 different goods. Many of those are perishable and some, like sushi, have to leave its warehouse outside of Birmingham, U.K. the same day they arrive. To make it all happen, Ocado has turned to automation: robots stock shelves and algorithms map out how to store goods so they're always within easy reach of the humans who fill crates for delivery. Customers placing orders can have their online baskets automatically filled based on past preferences and consumption patterns. Ocado isn't standing still, either: its next warehouse, currently under construction, will see a swarm of 1,000 robots working together to shuttle goods around an automated grid the size of a football field.

How Facebook finds your offline life

I

f you have a Facebook account, then you know the deal: in exchange for a free-to-use social network, the company gets access to whatever personal information you share while using it. Only there's something Facebook isn't telling youit also buys offline data from data brokers, including information on how much money you make, how many credit cards you have, and your spending habits. It then matches that up to your online profile. The extra data is used to enhance Facebook's advertising platform, giving ad buyers more ways to target the people they want to sell to.

Five technologies that died in 2016

T

his year saw the emergence of some remarkable new advances-but some promising technologies also shuffled off this mortal coil. Let us remember Vine.

The app introduced us to short, social videos, propelled otherwisenormal folks to viral fame and in the process made its mark on the English language (where would we be without "on fleek"?). Then there was Pebble, the Kickstarter darling and, for a time, vanguard of the smartwatch movement. Then along came Apple, we decided smartwatches weren't that cool, really, and before you knew it, Fitbit bought up poor Pebble and snuffed it out. Yes, this year's list is full of forlorn tales of fallen tech.

But while they may be gone, they taught us much in their brief lives.

-MIT Technology Review

TechBiz 11 India Post

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January 6, 2017

Fascinating tech news • Two brothers from Afghanistan are on a mission to rid the world of landmines, and they've built a mine-hunting drone to do the job.

• What do Microsoft, SAP, HP Enterprises, and EY all have in common? They're increasingly hiring people on the autism spectrum.

• East Palo Alto, California sits on the doorstep of tech giants like Facebook, Google, and Yahoo-and over a third of students in its school district are homeless.

• Elon Musk is fond of saying that Tesla's Autopilot improves the safety of its cars. This scary video seems to prove him right.

• This is the story of the most profitable video game franchise in history. This is the story of Fifa.

-MIT Technology Review

PM offers sops post demonetization, warns dishonest of action NEW DELHI: In a bid to soften the blow of demonetization effects, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced a host of sops for rural and urban poor, middle class, women and senior citizens while sending out a tough message that law will come down with "full force" on the "dishonest".

Addressing the nation at the end of 50 day period post surprise decision to ban 500 and 1000 rupee notes, he did not set out any roadmap for withdrawal of the cash curbs in banks but made it clear that his attempt was to restore normalcy as fast as possible in the New Year.

He vowed that fight against black money and corruption cannot be allowed to stop or slowdown.

In what looked like a mini-Budget speech, the Prime Minister announced that loans of up to Rs 9 lakh taken in the New Year under two new schemes of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana will receive interest subvention of 4 per cent

Jaitley hails PM move NEW DELHI: The slew of measures announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi will enhance economic activities and pave way for "cleaner and bigger GDP", Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said here.

In a series of tweets, Jaitley said: "PM's announcements will enable a cleaner & bigger GDP...PM's announcements will enhance economic activities".

Referring to the sops announced for different sectors, he said agriculture, MSME and housing segments will get a fillip.

The Finance Minister, who will be presenting the budget for 2017-18 in February, also said the government is committed to cleansing political funding.

On the announcement of fixed 8 per cent interest rate on 10-year deposits up to Rs 7.5 lakh for senior citizens, Jaitley said it is "great news".-PTI

and loan of up to Rs 12 lakh will get a 3 per cent interest waiver.

For rural areas, the number of houses being built for poor will be increased by 33 per cent. In addi-

directly to their bank accounts.

This will cover women who undergo institutional delivery and vaccinate their children.

Thanking the people for their

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

tion, another scheme is being put in place for neo middle and middle class in rural areas where loans up to Rs 2 lakh for new housing or extension will receive an interest subvention of 3 per cent.

Farmers will get 60 days waiver from payment of interest on crop loan taken for the winter rabi sowing and those who have already paid will get back the money in their accounts.

They will get even better access to loans from cooperative societies with the government adding Rs 20,000 crore to the Rs 21,000 crore fund created by NABARD last month.

He said the government has enhanced the limit of underwriting of loans given by banks to small business from Rs 1 crore to Rs 2 crore. Banks and NBFCs will not levy high interest as the government is bearing the cost of underwriting them.

In a bid to help senior citizens, who often bear the brunt of banks reducing their deposit rates, Modi announced that they will receive fixed rate of 8 per cent for 10 years on deposits up to Rs 7.5 lakh, which will be paid monthly.

The government is introducing a nationwide scheme for financial assistance to pregnant women wherein Rs 6000 will be transferred

firm resolve and infinite patience in facing difficulties with a smile and a concept of sacrifice, he said Indians have displayed the strength of people power, utmost discipline and the ability to discern the truth in a storm of disinformation.

"My effort is to take the banking system to normalcy as fast as possible in the New Year. I have asked all concerned officers in the Government to focus their attention to this task. They have especially been told to proactively resolve the problems in rural and remote areas," he said.

Modi said what was done in India has no precedence globally and added that over last 10 to 12 years, 500 and 1000 currency notes were used less for legitimate transactions and more for parallel economy.

Maintaining that in the fight against corruption and black money, it is natural to debate the fate of the dishonest.

"What punishment will they get? The law will take its own course, with its full force. But the priority of the Government now is how to help the honest, protect them, and ease their difficulty. How can honesty gain more prestige?

"This Government is a friend of good people. And it aims to build an enabling environment for the dishonest to return to the path of goodness," he said.-PTI

NRIs can exchange defunct notes till June 30 MUMBAI: RBI has come out with conditions for exchange of defunct notes for those, including non-resident Indians, who failed to do so till the last day for depositing the invalid currency notes in

period, can exchange their defunct notes up to June 30, 2017, RBI said in a statement.

"While there is no monetary limit for exchange for the eligible resident Indians, the limit for NRIs will be as per the relFEMA RegulaCitizens can avail this facility evant tions (Rs 25,000 per in their individual capacity person)," it said.

Citizens can avail once during the period on this facility in their insubmission of ID docudividual capacity once ments, and on submission of during the period on submission of ID docudocumentary evidence ments, and on submission of documentary banks. evidence showing they were Resident Indian citizens who abroad during the period and that were abroad from November 9 to they have not availed the exDecember 30 can avail this facility change facility earlier, the RBI said. up to March 31, 2017 and NRI citiCont’d on page 13 zens, who were abroad during this

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12 PSU banks to raise Rs 3k cr from mkt NEW DELHI: In a bid to strengthen capital base of public sector banks (PSBs), the government has allowed 12 lenders to raise nearly Rs 3,000 crore via preferential shares over and above the

banking space, it said, the Union Cabinet in June 2016 had approved the proposal of acquisition of assets and liabilities of subsidiary banks i.e.

State Bank of Bikaner & Jaipur,

Rs 22,915 crore capital support committed to them in July last year.

The Finance Ministry granted approval to 12 proposals of PSBs to raise a sum of Rs 2,914.038 crore through preferential allotment and permission given to raise Rs 200 crore by United Bank of India through QIP mode.

The government had already infused a sum of Rs 25,000 crore in 19 PSBs during FY 2015-16.

"A budgetary provision of Rs 25,000 crore has been made for 2016-17 and the government has already allocated Rs 22,915 crore to 13 PSBs on July 19, 2016 of which 75 per cent has been allocated in first tranche while remaining amount will be released on assessment of performance of PSBs, the Department of Finance in its year-end review for 2016 said.

As regards consolidation in the

State Bank of Hyderabad, State Bank of Mysore, State Bank of Patiala, State Bank of Travancore and Bhartiya Mahila Bank (BMB).

With regard to financial inclusion, as many as 26.03 crore accounts have been opened under Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana

Zero balance accounts has been reduced to 23.86 per cent.

Aadhaar seeding has been done in 14.43 crore account under PMJDY, while 99.9 per cent households out of the 21.22 crore households surveyed have been covered under PMJDY. As on December 23, 2016, out of total requirement of 1,27,198 fixed location 'bank mitras' in sub service areas (SSAs), 1,26,985 'bank mitras' have been deployed by banks.

Out of 1,712 claims lodged, 1,626 claims have been disposed of under accidental insurance cover of Rs 1 lakh under RuPay debit card.

Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) cumulative Gross enrolment reported by banks, subject to verification of eligibility, etc. is over 3.08 crore, while Rs 9.88 crore under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha BimaYojana (PMSBY) as of December 28.

A total of 38.23 lakh subscrib-

With regard to financial inclusion, as many as 26.03 crore accounts have been opened under Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY), out of which 15.86 crore accounts are in rural areas and 10.17 crore in urban areas.

(PMJDY), out of which 15.86 crore accounts are in rural areas and 10.17 crore in urban areas.

Deposits of Rs 71,557.90 crore have been mobilized and 19.93 crore RuPay Debit cards have been issued under PMJDY.

ers have been enrolled under the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) with a total pension wealth of Rs 1,344.70 crore. Out of the total subscribers, 19.74 lakh subscribers have been enrolled during 2016 (up to December 15, 2016). -PTI

SBI, PNB, UBI cut base lending rate NEW DELHI: Top PSU lenders State Bank, PNB and Union Bank have slashed their benchmark lending rates by up to 90 basis points, a day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked banks to prioritize their lending towards the poor and middle class.

The country's largest lender, SBI, has reduced marginal cost of funds based lending rate (MCLR)

years and 5 years period to 8.60 per cent and 8.75 per cent, respectively.

Similarly, Union Bank of India has reduced its MCLR by 0.65-0.9 per cent to 8.65 per cent. The revised one-year MCLR stands at 8.65 per cent.

Welcoming rate reduction by banks, Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das said in a tweet,

by 0.9 per cent from 8.90 per cent to 8 per cent for one-year tenure, the bank said in a statement.

Flushed with funds after demonetization, the base interest rate for other tenures, including one month, three months and six months, has been slashed by 0.9 per cent.

MCLR has been reduced by 0.9 percentage points to 8.10 per cent for two-year term and 8.15 per cent for three-year tenure.

Other public sector lenders Punjab National Bank (PNB) and Union Bank of India (UBI) too have brought down the benchmark interest rate by up to 0.9 per cent.

PNB has cut its one-year MCLR rate by 0.7 per cent to 8.45 per cent from 9.15 per cent.

Lending rate was moderated by similar percentage points for 3

"Trend of interest rate reduction follows demonetization. Banks have substantial quantum of low cost funds now."

"Welcome reduction of interest rates by SBI. Loan disbursements expected to pick up. Positive for the economy," he added.

SBI's subsidiary State Bank of Travancore has announced reduction in the lending rate, followed by another public lender IDBI which cut base interest rate by up to 0.6 per cent.

Banks have moved to MCLR as their new benchmark lending rate from June, replacing the base rate system for new borrowers. It is calculated on the marginal cost of borrowing and return on net worth for banks. It was introduced by RBI to ensure fair interest rates to borrowers as well as banks. -PTI

Pak seeks US support on Indus treaty ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has sought support of the US on the implementation of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) with India, as Secretary of State John Kerry called for an amicable settlement of the issue by New Delhi and Islamabad, media reports said.

The development came after Pakistan was irked by the World Bank pause in mediation to resolve differences over construction of two water projects by India.

The Express Tribune reported that Kerry made a phone call to Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and discussed the row over the IWT implementation and the role of the World Bank (WB), which had brokered the treaty in 1960.

After Kerry's call, US Ambas-

sador to Pakistan David Hale also met Dar in Islamabad at the Finance Ministry.

The back-to-back contacts highlight the importance of the water issue, which can potentially endanger regional stability if the situation slips out of control, according to sources at Finance Ministry.

"The US would like to see an amicable solution to this (water) issue," a Finance Ministry statement quoted Kerry as saying.

Kerry told Dar that the WB president had informed him about Pakistan's complaint against India on the IWT. The water dispute has catapulted the US back into Pakistan's economic picture.

The American civilian and military assistance to Pakistan has drastically come down in recent months and its implications on Pakistan's fiscal situation have started emerging in the shape of a

istration is preparing to hand over the White House to Donald Trump next month.

"Senator Dar indicated that the US support on the principles and legal position of Pakistan will be

The Finance Minister told Kerry that the IWT was an international commitment and it was the WB's responsibility to make sure India honored the treaty and the water rights of hundreds of millions of Pakistani people were protected larger-than-anticipated budget deficit.

Independent analysts argue that Washington may not play an effective role in resolving the water dispute, as the Obama admin-

greatly appreciated," stated the Finance Ministry.

Early this month, the WB had announced a pause in playing its legally binding role of mediator in the IWT implementation.

In October, Pakistan had approached the WB seeking appointment of the Chairman of Court of Arbitration to resolve a dispute over construction of two mega hydropower projects by India in violation of the IWT. The Finance Minister told Kerry that the IWT was an international commitment and it was the WB's responsibility to make sure India honored the treaty and the water rights of hundreds of millions of Pakistani people were protected, said the finance ministry.

Dar added that the Court of Arbitration was the legal requirement, and the World Bank must fulfill the commitment to appointing the Chairman of the Court of Arbitration.-PTI

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IT industry facing uncertainty GRSE to deliver 100 warships this year in Trump era NEW DELHI: Already battling headwinds of a slowing growth, the USD 150-billion Indian IT industry is staring at arguably its biggest uncertainty in recent times after Donald Trump was elected as President of the US, which accounts for around 60 per cent of its export earnings.

While artificial intelligence, digital and automation are the buzzwords this year, worry lines

ing into markets like the US, the UK and the rest of Europe, Singapore and Australia. Second, the need to update skill base we have in India and rising need for digital and consulting skills, and third, the policy initiatives like GST which can impact the industry," said R Chandrashekhar, President of software association Nasscom.

Trump, who is due to take over as the 45th US President next

Indian players like TCS and Infosys are heavily dependent on the US market.

The other big market - the UK - also did not bring much good news for the sector this year, with the country announcing its separation from the EU. have started to emerge on "creeping" protectionism and negative sentiment in key markets. IT companies, however, can take comfort from the fact that global technology spend is expected to grow 3 per cent in 2017 after sliding 0.3 per cent in 2016 and long-term targets of the industry of grossing USD 225 billion by 2020 and USD 350 billion by 2025 remain intact, at least for now. "For 2017, the big concern areas include protectionism and anti-globalization creep-

month, is known for his hardline stance on protectionism and antiimmigration. While the industry has tried putting on a brave front, there are underlying concerns about tightening of visa norms that will push up the cost of doing business. Flagging the issue of protectionism and negative sentiment around skilled worker movement in the US, Chandrashekhar argues that corporate America also needs technology services, given the shortage of science,

technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) skills.

"The issue is as much about what is good for the US economy.

The fact is that according to US own statistics, over one million ITrelated jobs will remain unfilled in 2018... So, reality has to be kept in mind before steps are taken," he said.

Indian players like TCS and Infosys are heavily dependent on the US market.

The other big market - the UK also did not bring much good news for the sector this year, with the country announcing its separation from the EU. While companies as well as industry body Nasscom said there may be short-term impact on contracts, Britain exiting from the UK holds opportunities for India over a longer term.

The IT industry, which has been a poster boy for Indian exports sector, has been battling factors like fluctuating currency and rising visa costs over the past many years.

In March this year, India filed a complaint in the World Trade Organization (WTO) against the US decision to impose high fees on temporary working visas, a move that makes Indian IT companies less competitive in that market. -PTI

Rs 3,285cr withdrawn from Jan Dhan a/cs NEW DELHI: Jan Dhan accounts witnessed net withdrawal of Rs 3,285 crore in the last fortnight after a huge surge in deposits post

to close at Rs 71,037 crore on December 28, two days ahead of the close of demonetization exercise, according to Finance Ministry

demonetization in November.

Total deposits increased to a record high of Rs 74,610 crore for the week ended December 7 and thereafter, it started gradual decline

data.

In the last fortnight, the total deposit came down by Rs 3,285 crore. This was despite the fact that the monthly upper withdrawal

limit was fixed at Rs 10,000 per month from November 30 to check misuse of Jan Dhan accounts.

The upper limit for deposits in Jan Dhan account is Rs 50,000.

As of November 9, the balance in about 25.5 crore such accounts was Rs 45,636.61 crore.

Total deposits in Jan Dhan accounts surged by around Rs 28,973 crore in about a month after the announcement of ban on old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes on November 8 midnight.

Interestingly, the percentage of zero balance account still remains flat at about 24.13 per cent despite surge in deposits.

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana was launched in August 2014 to increase banking penetration and promote financial inclusion in the country.

Uttar Pradesh tops the list of states with most deposits in Jan Dhan accounts, followed by West Bengal and Rajasthan.-PTI

KOLKATA: Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited (GRSE) will deliver 100 warships to the Navy in FebruaryMarch 2017 and become the first shipbuilding yard of the country to do so, a top official said here.

"Next year in February-March, we will deliver our 100 warships.

This is a rare distinction for a shipbuilding yard as we will be the first shipbuilding yard of the country which has manufactured 100 warships, apart from 700 vessels," GRSE's CMD Rear Admiral (retd) A K Verma told reporters here a day before his retirement.

current construction of 14 ships.

The shipyard has already made a beginning in this regard by adopting modular construction on LCU project and will soon implement the same on prestigious Advanced Stealth Project P-17A for Indian Navy," he said "We have now an order book of Rs 30,000 crore, which is an achievement in itself," Verma said.

GRSE created history in 2014 when it delivered the first warship built in India for export - the CGS Barracuda to Mauritius.

On plans of building a submarine manufacturing plant at Raichak, Verma said, "The plan is still there but I feel we need a larger area closer to the sea."

GRSE has delivered 15 warships and launched 18 such vessels over the last five years.

"After modernization, the installed capacity of the shipyard was enhanced to undertake con-

INS Kamorta and INS Kadmatt, the first two anti-submarine warfare corvettes built by GRSE, with 90 per cent indigenous content, were delivered to the Indian Navy in July 2014 and November 2015 respectively.

GRSE is the premier warship building company in India, under the administrative control of Ministry of Defense. -PTI

NRIs can exchange defunct notes till June 30 Cont’d from page 11

The statement added that no third party tender will be accepted under the facility.

On fulfillment of the terms and conditions and the genuineness of the notes tendered, it said, adding that admissible amount will be credited to the tenderer's KYC compliant bank account.

This facility will be available through Reserve Bank offices at Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata and Nagpur.

According to RBI, Indian citizens resident in Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan and Bangladesh cannot avail this facility.

"Any person, aggrieved by the decision of the Reserve Bank may prefer an appeal to the Central Board of the Reserve Bank within 14 days of the communication of such refusal to him," it said.

Such representations may be addressed to the Central Board, Reserve Bank of India, Secretary's Department, it added.PTI

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Demand goes up for work under NREGA NEW DELHI: The demand for work under NREGA has suddenly peaked after the high-value currency notes were demonetized in November and the outlay for the social security scheme in the current year is set to surpass Rs 51,000 crore, the highest ever.

"There has been sudden surge

the highest-ever budgetary allocation this year.

Reports have suggested migrants - especially from Bihar, Odisha and other states - were returning to their native places and that has led to the jump in the demand for work under the scheme, according to sources.

in the demand for work under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act in last one month or so," a source said.

The rural development ministry has sought a few thousand crores in additional funds for NREGA, facing a liquidity crunch despite

About Rs 43,499 crore was allocated for NREGA in this year's budget, out of which more than 90 per cent has been released to the states, the source added.

The ministry has also cleared about Rs 12,581 crore in outstandings for the previous

year.

According to sources, the demand for work is also higher as there are still some regions which are drought-affected.

NREGA, a flagship program introduced by the previous Congress-led UPA government, is a demand-driven employment scheme. Not less than 100 days of employment are provided to registered workers upon receipt of their demand.

It provides supplementary means of livelihood to people in rural areas, primarily during lean periods.

Congress has alleged that the scheme was being stifled by the NDA government, which has denied the charge.

Centre has also announced additional employment over and above 100 days per household to up to 150 days in notified droughtaffected districts in various states of the country.

Assets created under NREGA included works related to natural resource management such as water conservation, land development and irrigation. Besides these, dams, irrigations channels, check dams, ponds, wells Aanganwadi assets were also constructed under the scheme.-PTI

Tata Steel hopes to get back to normalcy soon JAMSHEDPUR: Private steel major Tata Steel has expressed confidence that the situation would be back to normal in the next quarter after the company's performance was impacted temporarily in November last owing to demonetization.

December was much better month for Tata Steel than November last affected due to demonetization, the company's Managing Director (India and South East Asia) T V Narendran said.

The steel industry in the country had gone through a difficult time during the last two years, when the sector faced many challenges from the international market, he said claiming that the situation had also affected steel sector in China in 2015.

The union government had intervened and supported the domestic steel sector when a lot of steel was coming into the country including the dumping of steel

from China in 2015, he said.

In fact, one million tonnes of steel was coming in from China every month during the period when the government had felt that it would be unfair for them if no immediate steps were taken to protect the domestic steel sector, he said.

Appreciating the initiatives of the government, Narendran said the steel sector had played an important role in the development of the country and it had invested Rs three hundred thousand crore in the country during the last ten

years.

Hailing the government initiatives to protect steel sector, Narendran said it had helped the situation to improve from the beginning of 2016 when even the international market had started picking up.

However, the increased cost of coal and iron-ore during last three/ four months had put cost pressure on the company, besides demonetization being another issue affecting the performance of the company, Narendran said.

The company had 5 to 8 per cent impact in the rural market owing to demonetization in November, but the situation was much better in December, Narendran further said.

The demonetization had impacted the company's performance in rural market, which was a cashbased, he said assuring that Tata Steel had taken initiative to address the problem.-PTI

Dubai gold market hit by demonetization DUBAI: Dubai's famous Gold Souq, a prime market for yellow metal, has been witnessing almost a complete absence of visitors from India due to demonetization, according to a media report.

For the single-store operators in the market, the demonetization hit has been extremely severe.

"What you are seeing here is a complete mirror image of the crash in gold sales within India since November 8, when demonetization was announced," said Cyriac Varghese, General Manager of Sky Jewellery.

"Outside of the Gold Souq, shops in areas such as Bur Dubai too have been recording less of Indian visitor buying interest," Varghese was quoted as saying by the Gulf News.

In a good year, rupee-led transactions in the market would have accounted for close to 15-20 per cent of sales, and more when gold prices take a dip (as it did last week), the report said.

According to retail sources, there has been some compensation in the form of Chinese visitors who have been more active in recent weeks with their gold buying.

But this is nowhere near the levels of Indian visitors.

Chinese prefer for the 18-karat as opposed to the 22k, it said.

"A visitor from India would travel to Dubai holding a sizable value in Indian currency, get it exchanged here and then make the conversion to jewellery," said Abdul Salam K P, board member of the Dubai Gold & Jewellery Group.

"With demonetization, surplus cash is just not available and same is the case with what someone could do with their unaccounted rupees," he said.

Local currency exchange

houses are not helping anyone holding the older currencies either.

"At present we are not accepting or exchanging any of the discontinued currency notes, taking into consideration the guidelines that need to be adhered to on account of demonetization," said Antony Jos, Director at Joy Alukkas Group.

In its biggest crackdown on black money, the government announced its demonetization drive on November 8 under which high value currencies in the denomination of Rs 1000 and Rs 500 were banned. -PTI

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Gionee firm on manufacturing 80 countries in Vibrant plans Gujarat Trade Show KOLKATA: Handset maker Gionee has said it is firm on its plans manufacturing mobile phones in India despite disruptions due to demonetization.

"Yes of course, we are committed to Make in India and planning to set up a manufacturing unit

spread across 50 acres in Faridabad at a cost of Rs 500 crore," Gionee India CEO and Country Head Arvind Vohra told PTI when asked about plans of

manufacturing handsets in India post demonetization.

"The capacity of the unit will be 30 million units and it should be operational in about two years," he said.

"With demonetization, the market had undoubtedly slowed

cline is 8-10 per cent," he said.

In long-term, Gionee plans not to only tap the growing demand in India as well as act as an export hub to serve markets like Africa and South East Asia, the company said.

At present, about 60 per cent of Gionee's devices sold in India are manufactured locally at facilities run by Foxconn To tackle the after(Tamil Nadu) and Dixon (Noida) of Dixon effects of demonTechnologies. etization, Gionee To tackle the aftereffects of demonetizabelieved distribution, Gionee believed distributors were tors were needed needed to increase the to increase the credit cycle to retailers and both retailers and credit cycle to brands were required retailers and both to give more lucrative retailers and brands offers to the cash-hit consumers.

Speaking about 4G handset shipping scenario, Vohra said "we down, but is getting back on track are seeing a quick change in the with the cash crunch situation eas- growth of 4G handsets shipment ing. Sales declined 20 per cent in since 2016, and it will be an upthe first two to three days, but ward trend in coming years too." with partial recovery now the de- PTI

Demonetization will yield better results: Drabu SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Finance Minister Haseeb Drabu has said while demonetization has caused short-term pains to the people, its long-term impact is going to be far more important than what is seen at the moment.

"There are two ways about it, one is a very short-term kind of interpretation where it has caused a lot of distress in terms of transactional demand for money has not been met," Drabu told reporters here.

"But I take a slightly more longterm view and feel that this is going to set us on a path of much superior digital payment system and (comes) also as a shock to the system which should eventually yield better results. So, I am not negative on it but yes there have been short-term pains," he said.

The minister said that the longterm impact of demonetization is going to be far more important than what is being seen at the moment.

The State Finance Minister was here to unveil the Jammu and Kashmir Bank's calendar for 2017.

Asked whether he and Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti were not on the same page over the issue demonetization as the latter has praised the Centre's move, Drabu said he speaks as a professional, while the CM has given a general opinion about it.

"Why should one be (on the same page)? I mean demonetization is a national macro-economic

The finance minister who will be presenting his third budget next week, said, he would continue with some of the reform measures.

"Last year, I did a lot of reforms on provident fund. This year also, I will continue doing some reforms...basic trend of my budget has been to make things easier for the people and finance

‘Basic trend of my budget has been to make things easier for the people and finance should not be seen as a constraining department, but something that aids development’ policy measure. It will affect different people differently. I take a view which is professional," the minister added.

Acknowledging that they can have different views on the same matter, Drabu said: "She was giving a general opinion about it. But even then I do not feel any dissonance".

should not be seen as a constraining department, but something that aids development.

"But, because I presented the last budget in July (2016) it has been only six months and I think this budget will also consolidate and do a stock taking of the previous three budgets. It means a lot" he said.-PTI

GANDHINAGAR: Representatives of more than 80 countries will be participating in the fiveday 'Vibrant Gujarat Global Trade Show' which will be inaugurated

by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 9.

Gujarat Revenue Minister Bhupendrasinh Chudasama told reporters that Presidents of Kenya and Rawanda, Prime Ministers of Portugal and Serbia, deputy Prime Ministers of Russia and Poland, and ministers of Sweden and Japan are also likely to be here to participate at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit.

"We have 1,500 representatives from eighty countries participating in the trade show which will be inaugurated by PM Modi on January 9. The show will have two parts: on January 10 and 11, there will be business seminars, and on January 12 and 13, the exhibition will be open for visitors," Chudasama said.

The pavilions at the trade show, to be held at the exhibition ground here, will have industries from various sectors like automobiles, agro and food, aero-

space and defense, energy and petrochemicals, environment, health care, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, among others, said Chudasama.

"Special focus has been given to international organizations, women entrepreneurs, MSME and start-ups. We have offered discount between 50 and

90 per cent to women entrepreneurs, start-ups and MSMEs. In all, around 1,500 entities will participate," he said, adding, around 15-20 lakh people are expected to visit the trade show.

"Demonetization has had no effect on bookings, especially

by MSMEs which have responded very well. We have adopted revenue neutral approach for deciding on rates," principal secretary, tourism, S J Haider said.-PTI

Drabu defends SC ruling on property SRINAGAR: Terming the opposition to SC ruling on the SARFAESI Act with respect to Jammu and Kashmir as "completely misplaced", state Finance Minister Haseeb Drabu has said the apex court has only reaffirmed that the state laws prevail.

"I think we will have a lot of occasion to discuss this in the Assembly, but I think it (opposition to the SC ruling) is completely misplaced... the Opposition has been doing this for very very long."

While speaking at a Jammu and Kashmir Bank event here, Drabu told reporters that "there is nothing in the Act (to be opposed). In fact, it reaffirms quite a few things, one of which is that the Transfer of Property Act actually prevails over SARFAESI (the Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest Act)".

According to him, banks can-

not sell any immovable mortgaged property to non-state subjects.

"In the event of a bank taking recourse to property, they cannot sell it to a non-state subject and in the last budget, I had already made a provision for an asset recovery company with the J-K Bank which can buy these impaired assets," he said.

"So, I think the Opposition is completely clueless in what they are saying and bears no relation to what the Act has and it is not today, this has been going on since 2003," he claimed.

Referring to his stint in the bank as its chairman, he recalled making some pertinent proposals.

"But I think what eventually has happened is we have got clarity on it that the Transfer of Property Act of J-K will actually prevail over this (SARFAESI) and you cannot sell any immovable mortgage property to non-state subjects." -PTI

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BCCI top honchos accept SC verdict NEW DELHI: Given the marching orders by Supreme Court, the sacked duo of BCCI President Anurag Thakur and Secretary Ajay Shirke have said they will abide by the directive even though they made their skepticism with the verdict quite apparent.

Thakur and Shirke were told to quit office with immediate effect by an irate Supreme Court, which held that it was mandatory for the BCCI to implement the Lodha Committee recommendations on administrative reforms in toto.

The court ruled that, for the time being, the senior-most vice President of the BCCI will act as the stand-in President and the joint Secretary would carry out the Secretary's functions. DDCA Vice President CK Khanna, 64, is among the senior-most VPs in the Board right now.

The apex court also issued a contempt notice to Thakur seeking his response as to why he should not be held liable for obstructing the implementation of the Lodha reforms, which were first made mandatory on July 18 last year.

Thakur took a subtle dig at the order saying that if the apex court feels the cricketing body will do well under the guidance of retired judges, "I wish them all the best".

"For me it was not a personal battle, it was a battle for the autonomy of the sports body. I respect Supreme Court as any citizen should. If Supreme Court judges feel that BCCI could do better under retired judges, I wish them all the best. I am sure Indian cricket will do well under their guidance," said Thakur.

He reacted to the Supreme Court order by putting up a video clip on social media.

"My commitment to the best of Indian cricket and autonomy of sports will always remain," he said.

Thakur was BCCI joint secretary and secretary before being elected president in May 2016. The BJP MP has also served as Himachal cricket boss for more

his sacking). If that is the Supreme Court order, I cease to be secretary. It cannot get any simpler than that. My role in BCCI is over," said Shirke shortly after Supreme Court

BCCI President Anurag Thakur (right) and Secretary Ajay Shirke

than a decade.

"I had the honor of serving Indian cricket. Over the years, Indian cricket saw its best in terms of administration and development of the game. BCCI is the best managed sports organization in the country with defined procedures.

India has the best infrastructure built and maintained by state associations with help of BCCI. India has more quality players than anywhere in the world.

Shirke, on the other hand, said he is "absolutely fine" with the Supreme Court order but hoped that the Board does not lose its

removed him and president Anurag Thakur as the office-bearers of the BCCI. The two faced the wrath of the Supreme Court after BCCI failed to implement the Lodha panel reforms under their leadership.

When asked whether the situation could have been avoided had the Board implemented the sweeping reforms earlier, Shirke said there was no question of handling the issue differently.

"At the end of the day, the BCCI comprises of members. It is not about me or the president. It is about the members.

Thakur and Shirke were told to quit office with immediate effect by an irate Supreme Court, which held that it was mandatory for the BCCI to implement the Lodha Committee recommendations on administrative reforms in toto international standing owing to the administrative upheaval here.

"I have no reaction to that (to

"I have no reason to go into history. History can be judged by people differently. I have no personal attachment to the post. In the past also I have resigned and I have lots of other things to do. I came back to the Board as there was a vacancy and I was elected unopposed. Now it has come to this (the Supreme Court). I am completely fine with it and I have no regrets," said Shirke from the UK. A bench headed by Chief Justice T S Thakur said the working of BCCI will be looked after by a committee of administrators and requested senior advocate Fali S Nariman and senior advocate Gopal Subramanian, the amicus curiae in the matter, to assist the court in nominating persons of impeccable integrity for the panel.

Shrike hoped the Board does not lose its powerful position on the global stage.

"I hope the new dispensation

continues the good work done by the BCCI. Hope the Board doesn't lose more face globally. I also hope the Indian team is able to maintain its supremacy in all three formats of the game," Shirke added.

Justice R M Lodha, who headed the three-member panel formed by Supreme Court to suggest structural reforms in the BCCI, said it was only a matter of time for the recommendations to be implemented.

"This is a logical consequence

because once the reforms were accepted by the Supreme Court, they had to be implemented. There were obstructions and obviously this had to happen and it has happened," said Lodha.

"One should understand that once the order of the Supreme Court has come, it has to be obeyed. It is law of the land.

It is victory for cricket. The game will flourish. Administrators come and go but the game goes on," Lodha added.-PTI

NRIs to show old notes to Customs Cont’d from page 5

and non-resident Indians to deposit SBNs when they arrive in India, measures should be taken to make passengers and airlines aware of the new dispensation.

"While discharging the above task, care may be taken that due courtesy is extended to the declarants and that no unnecessary inconvenience is caused," it said.

The government had declared 500 and 1,000 denomination bank notes as illegal tender from November 9, 2016.

Subsequently, the President approved the promulgation of the Specified Bank Notes (Cessation of Liabilities) Ordinance, 2016 on December 30.

"The ordinance imposes penal liabilities on the holders of SBNs

For NRIs, in addition to the proof of being outside the country, they will have to produce "a certificate issued by Indian Customs on arrival through Red Channel after December 30, 2016, indicating the import of SBNs, with details and value thereof".

The finance ministry notification said: "At the airport/land Customs stations etc on entry, Customs stamp on the said forms shall be affixed and the same shall be submitted along with other documents to RBI offices."

Since the form to be filled in by the passenger bearing the Customs stamp will be crucial in subsequently facilitating the deposit of SBNs at the specified issue offices of RBI, it asked the Customs for- Those returning from Nepal mations to keep a copy of the same, preferably and Bhutan are not permitin scanned format.

While the 50-day ted to carry SBNs of old 500 window for such depos- and 1,000 rupee notes its at banks or post offices ended on December 30, the government has offered after the specified date," the notia grace period for those who were fication said.

It makes holding, transfer and abroad.

The window for Indian nation- receiving of the demonetized als who were travelling abroad is notes a criminal offence, punishtill March 31 and for NRIs, it is June able with a fine of Rs 10,000 or five times the cash held, which30, 2017.

Those returning from Nepal and ever is higher.

"The details of the declaration Bhutan are not permitted to carry SBNs of old 500 and 1,000 rupee and statements that are required notes. to be submitted along with the This facility, however, is "sub- SBNs at the time of deposit at ject to the Foreign Exchange Man- RBI issue offices will be sepaagement (Export and Import of rately announced by RBI. Any Currency) Regulations, 2015. As false declaration will invite a fine per these regulations, bringing of Rs 50,000 or five times the back such currency into the coun- amount of the face value of the try is restricted to Rs 25,000 per SBN tendered, whichever is higher," a ministry statement had person".

The ministry said since it is a said after the Ordinance was profacilitation step to enable resident mulgated.-PTI

January 6, 2017

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New Year 2017 celebrations across the world

People crowd at India Gate on the first day of New Year 2017, in New Delhi on January 1

Revellers release balloons as they take part in New Year celebrations in Tokyo, Japan, January 1

Fireworks explode from Aucklands Sky Tower as the new year is welcomed to New Zealand, January 1 Lights illuminate the historical site of Giza Pyramids and Sphinx to celebrate the New Year in Egypt, January 1

Revelers gather on Times Square in New York, December 31, to take part in a New Year’s Eve celebration Fireworks explode around the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge as New Years celebrations get underway in Sydney, Australia, December 31

Revellers photograph fireworks over the Arc de Triomphe as they celebrate the New Year on the Champs Elysees, in Paris, France, January 1

People watch and take pictures with their cell phones as fireworks explode over the Kremlin at Red Square which was blocked by police during New Year celebrations in Moscow, Russia, January 1

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India bid on Azhar politically motivated: Pak ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has said India's bid at the UN to ban Masood Azhar was "politically motivated" and "replete with frivolous information", two days after its close ally China blocked the proposal to get the JeM chief and Pathankot attack mastermind listed as a global terrorist.

Responding to reports on India failing to put Azhar on the United Nations Security Council's 1267 Sanctions Committee, Foreign Office spokesperson Nafees Zakaria said, "The 1267 Sanctions Committee related to ISIS/AlQaeda has rejected a politically motivated proposal by India. Replete with frivolous information and baseless allegations, the Indian proposal had no merit and was pri-

tee of the Security Council," he said.

"While claiming to denounce terrorism, India has in fact deployed terrorism as an instrument of state policy, and has itself been involved in perpetrating, sponsoring, supporting, and financing terrorism," Zakaria said in a statement.

"The arrest of Kulbhushan Jadhav, a RAW agent and serving officer of Indian navy, and his confession about involvement in terrorist activities aimed at destabilizing Pakistan and killing or maiming of Pakistani citizens, is yet another proof of Indian sponsored terrorism in Pakistan."

"With such duplicitous behavior and blood on its hands", India has little credibility on counter-terrorism, he claimed.

The spokesperson The spokesperson said that said that in the coming days, Pakistan will share in the coming days, Pakiwith the United Nations stan will share with the and members of the international community United Nations and mem"additional evidence of bers of the international Indian involvement in community "additional eviterrorism in Pakistan".

"It is clear that India's dence of Indian involveunfounded allegations ment in terrorism in Pakistan" against Pakistan are in fact aimed at masking its marily aimed at advancing its nar- own terrorist activities in Pakistan, row national agenda. as well as diverting the attention of "The dismissal of this proposal the international community from is also a rejection of the Indian at- the grave violations of human tempts to politicize and undermine rights and state sponsored terrorthe work of this important Commit- ism perpetrated by the Indian oc-

cupying forces in Kashmir," the statement said.

"Pakistan has made significant contribution and rendered enormous sacrifices in the success of the international community s counter-terrorism efforts. We are deeply committed to this common

'Pak backing Masood is support to terror' NEW DELHI: Pakistan's statement criticizing India's bid to get Pathankot attack mastermind Masood Azhar designated as global terrorist by the UN reflected Islamabad's "tacit support" to terror networks and its uneasiness in talking about it, official sources

Masood Azhar

cause and look forward to continuing close cooperation with the international community in this collective endeavour," the statement said.

China had blocked India's proposal to get Pakistan-based Azhar listed as global terrorist by the UN, citing lack of "consensus" on the issue. In last nine months, China has twice put technical hold on listing Azhar as designated terrorist that would have forced imposition of asset freeze and travel ban on him by countries including Pakistan. -PTI

said here.

Referring to Pakistan's comment calling India's move as "politically motivated" and "replete with frivolous information", they said the establishment was even scared of taking the name of Masood in its statement.

"They are even scared of taking Azhar's name," the sources said, referring to the kind of support terror outfits including JeM get from the Pakistani establishment.

Talking about India's move

Pak Hindu marriage bill closer to enactment ISLAMABAD: The muchawaited bill to regulate marriages of minority Hindus in Pakistan has moved closer to reality after a Senate committee approved the landmark draft legislation, nearly four months after it was passed by the National Assembly.

The Hindu Marriage Bill 2016 will become a law after it will be passed by the Senate, the upper house of the Parliament.

The Senate Functional Committee on Human Rights unanimously approved the much-awaited Hindu Marriages Bill, paving the way to its presentation in the Senate.

The Senate committee under the chair of Muttahida Qaumi Movement Senator Nasreen Jalil took up the bill for discussion and later approved it.

Considered as a comprehensive and widely-acceptable family law for Hindus living in Pakistan, the bill will enable the Hindu community to get their marriages regis-

tered and to appeal in courts of law in cases of separation.

There are penalties for violating the provisions of the bill, which allows Hindus to finally have a proof of marriage document called the shadiparat, similar to the

and consent after the death of her husband provided a period of six months has lapsed after the husband's death".

The Dawn reported that soon after the bill was approved, the Committee Room 4 in Parliament

nikahnama for Muslims.

The bill also allows separated Hindu persons to remarry.

Clause 17 of the bill states that a Hindu widow "shall have the right to re-marry of her own will

House echoed with jubilation as senators and officials of different ministries started thumping their desks.

Minority member in National Assembly Ramesh Kumar

Vankwani called the move a new year's gift for Hindus living in Pakistan.

"Today, we are proud to be Hindu Pakistanis after the approval of the bill. Hindus will now be able to get registered their marriages and also apply for divorce under family laws," he said.

Top constitutional expert Senator Aitzaz Ahsan said the bill is in accordance with the essence of the Constitution.

After passing through the committee stage, the bill will be presented before the Senate where it is sure to win bipartisan support.

The bill will be applicable to all Pakistan minus Sindh province which last year separately adopted its own Hindu marriage law.

Hindus make up approximately 1.6 per cent of Pakistan's Muslimmajority 190 million population, but they have not had any legal mechanisms to register their marriages since independence in 1947. -PTI

against the JeM chief, Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson Nafees Zakaria in his statement did not take name of Azhar.

Pakistan's criticism of India on the issue came two days after its close ally China blocked New Delhi's proposal to get Azhar listed as a global terrorist.

"The 1267 Sanctions Committee related to ISIS/Al-Qaeda has rejected a politically motivated proposal by India.

Replete with frivolous information and baseless allegations, the Indian proposal had no merit and was primarily aimed at advancing its narrow national agenda.

"The dismissal of this proposal is also a rejection of the Indian attempts to politicize and undermine the work of this important Committee of the Security Council," Zakaria had said in the statement.PTI

New UN chief pledges 'a year for peace' UNITED NATIONS: Antonio Guterres took charge as the UN Secretary General, making a strong appeal to the international community to strive for peace in 2017 at a time when millions of people are caught up in conflict and threat of global terrorism affects all.

"On this New Year's Day, I ask all of you to join me in making one shared New Year's resolution: Let us resolve to put peace first," said 67-year-old Guterres, who succeeded Ban Ki-moon as the world s top diplomat.

He said one question weighs heavy on his heart, "how can we help the millions of people caught up in conflict, suffering massively in wars with no end in sight?"

"Peace must be our goal and our guide," he said, urging all citizens, governments and leaders to strive to overcome differences. Guterres voiced concern that civilians are pounded with deadly force, women, children and men are killed and injured, forced from their homes, dispossessed and destitute.

"Even hospitals and aid convoys are targeted. No one wins these wars everyone loses.

Trillions of dollars are spent destroying societies and economies, fueling cycles of mistrust and fear that can last for generations. -PTI

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China's aircraft carrier holds drills in SCS BEIJING: China continued to flex its muscles in the South China Sea, with its first aircraft carrier conducting exercises in the disputed area with a flotilla of naval ships amid tensions with the US following President- elect Donald Trump's telephone call to the Taiwanese president.

A naval formation consisting of aircraft carrier Liaoning has conducted take-off and landing drills in the South China Sea, state-run Xinhua news agency quoted an official as saying.

The formation, which is on a "cross-sea area" training exercise, involved J-15 fighter jets, as well as several ship-borne helicopters, the official said without mentioning specific numbers.

Complex hydrological and meteorological conditions in the South China Sea as well as a cold front in area have posed some chal-

lenges, but the drill provided important experience in the build-up of combat capability of the aircraft carrier formation, he said.

Chinese officials also say that the carrier is conducting a series of exercises to test its systems and to work out an appropriate formation of ships and submarines to move along with it.

Liaoning, a refit of the Soviet era warship, has been pressed into exercises in the middle of last month during which it conducted maiden live fire drills on a massive scale along with a host of naval ships, aircraft and submarines, four years after it was commissioned.

China is currently building its

Enhance cooperation, says Xi to BRICS BEIJING: BRICS countries should enhance solidarity, cooperation and safeguard common interests as they face growing uncertainties and instabilities in international situations, according to Chinese President Xi Jinping, who assumes the Presidency of the five-member bloc this year.

Facing growing uncertainties and instability in international affairs, BRICS countries need to enhance solidarity and safeguard

member states during China's presidency of the bloc this year, Xi said Beijing will host the ninth BRICS leaders' summit in Xiamen, a coastal city in southeastern China's Fujian province in September this year.

The summit will focus on four aspects, deepening pragmatic cooperation for common development, enhancing global governance to jointly counter challenges, carrying out people- topeople exchanges to consolidate public supChina will work with other port for cooperation BRICS countries to make the and promoting mechanism-building to conXiamen summit a success struct broader partnerand move forward BRICS ship, said Xi, also the cooperation to a new level," General Secretary of the ruling Communist Party he said, state-run China of China (CPC).

Daily reported Xi attended last year's summit of Brazil, common interests, Xi said in a let- Russia, India, China and South ter to Prime Minister Narendra Africa (BRICS) in Goa under Modi, Russia President Vladimir India's Presidency. The PresiPutin, South African President dency goes on rotation every year.

Jacob Zuma and Brazilian PresiIn the first decade of its existdent Michel Temer, official media ence, BRICS has moved forward on reported. the economic front establishing "In accordance with an open, BRICS bank called the New Develinclusive and win-win BRICS opment Bank (NDB), which was spirit, China will work with other established with initial subscribed BRICS countries to make the capital of USD 50 billion with total Xiamen summit a success and paid- in capital of USD 10 billion. move forward BRICS cooperation The Shanghai-based bank to a new level," he said, state-run headed by Indian banker K V China Daily reported.

Kamath has started disbursing Briefing fellow BRICS leaders loans for various green infraabout China's blueprint for pro- structure projects in the five moting cooperation among the countries. PTI

second aircraft carrier. Chinese navy said the drills conducted in the Bohai Sea involved dozens of

to-air missiles.

Liaoning has been conducting exercises since then and even trav-

ships and aircraft as well as several air-to-air, air-to-ship and ship-

elled close to Taiwan in a show of strength.

The exercises followed as China struck a more aggressive posture over the disputed South China Sea issue amid Trump's rhetoric over One China policy.

Trump made an unprecedented phone call to Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen, drawing strong diplomatic protests from Beijing.

Subsequently, Chinese navy also seized an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) of the US in the South China Sea and returned it about a week later, saying that it picked the unidentified drone to ensure safety of the navigation.

China has become more assertive over the South China Sea after an international tribunal struck down its claim over almost all of the area.

The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also have counter claims over the South China Sea. -PTI

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Haj application process goes digital MUMBAI: Giving a digital push to the Haj application process for the first time, Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi here launched a mobile application which will provide information and facilitate e-payments for the pilgrimage.

"It is for the first time that Haj application process is going to be digital," Naqvi said during the launch of the event at Haj House in south Mumbai. "This is a major initiative in the government's 'Digital India' program," he said.

"The Ministry of Minority Affairs has joined Digital India campaign in a big way. We have made several processes regarding Haj digital/online. The Central government has been encouraging online applications for next Haj so that people can get an opportunity for the pilgrimage with complete transparency and comfort," Naqvi said.

The mobile app is available on Google Play store. The next Haj schedule has already been announced. The last date for submitting applications is January 24.

Applying for Haj, enquiry and information, news and updates and e-payment are the main features of the app. The application can be made directly on the app.

Five adults and two infants can apply as a group.

A PDF copy of the form will go

to applicant's email.

After affixing the photo, the printout with documents is to be sent to the state Haj committees.

Registration fees can also be paid through this app.

Naqvi said that last month, a new website of Haj was launched in New Delhi. The website is in Hindi, Urdu and English lan-

Naqvi said.

Last year, about 45,843 people had applied for Haj online, which was about 11 per cent of total applications received from across the nation for the pilgrimage.

"We have been making efforts to make the process of online application simple and easy so that more and more people can apply

Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs (Independent Charge) & Parliamentary Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi at the launch of Haj Committee of India Mobile App at Haj House, Mumbai on January 2

guages which will provide all the necessary information regarding Haj. The website also lists "Do's and Don'ts" for the Haj pilgrimage and also a film informing about various aspects of the pilgrimage,

online for next Haj pilgrimage," Naqvi said.

Maharashtra was at the top place regarding online applications for Haj 2016, with a total of 10,960 people having applied online.-PTI

No-donation campaign against AAP continues India Post News Service

NEW DELHI: Over 2000 people have joined the Chanda Bandh Satyagraha Campaign against AAP. The satyagrahis of Chanda Band Satyagraha stand at public places in Delhi with banners and placards which essentially convey the message: "Take a Pledge not to donate to Aam Aadmi Party until it makes it Political Fundings Public."

AAP has also been issued notice by income tax department regarding opaque funding practices, but they have not taken any step regarding the transparency in political donations.

Volunteers of 'No List No Donation' campaign are distributing pamphlets and speaking about the basics of transparent political system to make public aware of the opaque funding practices in AAP. The Chanda Bandh Satyagraha initiative has been taken up by Chicago-based Munish Kumar Raizada, a medical doctor and a

suspended member of AAP. Raizada has demanded 4 specific conditions to be met: Put all donations in public domain, donations should be searchable by name (and not only via receipt number), missing balance sheets after 2014 to be made public and inquiry to be ordered in the dubious donations of Rs 2 cr that the party received in 2014. Kejriwal

had promised an inquiry into this if came into power.

Anna Hazare has also questioned Arvind Kejriwal in his letter regarding the unfulfilled promises he made to the people. The campaign blessed by Anna Hazare - is aimed at compelling the Aam Aadmi Party to do course correction since the party has refused to make details of its political donations public.

India INX to go live post Makar Sankranti MUMBAI: BSE's India Interna- tunity with low risks to expand tional Exchange at GIFT city will business by accessing internago live for trading post the festi- tional clients such as NRIs," val of 'Makar Sankranti' later this Chauhan said adding that no commonth, and will offer only deriva- plaints have been raised by the tive products for the first six market participants yet with regard months at least. to procedures.

The India International Ex"In the first phase, the interest change, which is a wholly-owned is largely coming from larger tradsubsidiary of top domestic bourse ers, high frequency traders who BSE, will be inaugurated by Prime are basically used to working in Minister Narendra Modi on Janu- international markets," Chauhan ary 9 at Gujarat International Fi- said. nance Tec (GIFT) city - the Noting that the technology set country's first International Finan- up at India Inx is similar to one ofcial Services Centre (IFSC). fered by it on the domestic bourse, The bourse is expected to be- Chauhan said that its trading platgin trading activities post Makar form has achieved a speed of 3-4 Sankranti, which will be observed microseconds at the international on January 14. exchange, bringing it in league "In the first phase, we will start with technology in rest of the trading only in derivative products world. (in equity, currency and commodiIndia International Exchange ties). will offer T7 trading platform, curLater on, we shall offer deposi- rently used by BSE with speed of tory receipts and bonds on the 6 microseconds.

India INX platform," BSE ManagMoreover, a new management ing Director and CEO has been put in place for the India Ashishkumar Chauhan told PTI in an interview.

"It will take us some time to The second phase is likely to take six months understand and also set up to one year for imple- the infrastructure as well as mentation, he said, adding that depository re- set up a new depository or ceipts and bonds would tie-up with an international be offered once the required infrastructure for depository. Besides, a reguthe same is in place. latory structure has to be "It will take us some time to understand and enabled for this to happen," also set up the infrastructure as well as set up a new International Exchange and is depository or tie-up with an inter- presently run by BSE officials. national depository. Besides, a "BSE has identified people to regulatory structure has to be en- run all the departments. It has also abled for this to happen," he said. hired people of Indian origin from Chauhan also said that a robust overseas...currently it has a carisk management system is in place pacity of 70-100 people," to prevent market manipulation and Chauhan said. money laundering.

Asked about sharing cost of According to the BSE chief ex- operation, Chauhan said that ecutive, while market participants currently BSE will undertake the and investors are excited about the cost on its own, however, once international exchange, the Sebi the exchange is stabilized and norms "are more stringent com- gain liquidity, it can explore oppared to international markets". portunity to sell stake in it to "All international regulations other players. would be applied here as well, in The GIFT city will be the first addition regulator Sebi has issued IFSC of India where there would norms specifically created for the be no levy of securities transacGIFT city which are more stringent tion tax, commodities transaction than the IOSCO guidelines," tax, stamp duty, service tax and Chauhan said. income tax. Only MAT (minimum "But, this is important as India alternate tax) will be applicable. does not want to become a haven The international exchange for tax evasion and market manipu- would help Indian corporates raise lation," he noted. equity from foreign investors by As many as 250 trading mem- getting listed and provide compabers, including commodity brokers nies incorporated outside India a as well as brokers settled overseas, platform to raise money in foreign have expressed interest to func- currencies by the issuance and listtion at India INX. ing of their equity shares on the "Many see it as a good oppor- international exchange.-PTI

January 6, 2017

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Desi News Hari Om Mandir rings in New Year with awards Asian Media USA

CHICAGO: Devotees at Hari Om Mandir in Medinah, a north side suburb of Chicago, kept up the tradition of ringing in the New Year, with "Akhand Ramayan Path" on Saturday, Dec 31. All members of the Board, along with several devotees were in attendance at a formal Pooja and other rituals performed by the Temple Priest, Pandit Dinesh Kumar.

At Midnight, 12 o'clock, a big group of devotees rang in the New Year 2017, amidst chanting of prayers, bhajans, Ram Dhun and ringing of bells. Devotees took turns in reading the Holy Book and Ramayan Path was completed after 24 hours next day on January 1. People sang and danced with joy to celebrate the auspicious start of the New Year.

COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA www.indiapost.com

24 India Post

Ganesha & Vishnu beers taken off website

January 6, 2017

Details on page 29

Indian community loses a True Sevak in Niranjan C. Shah SURESH BODIWALA

Details on page 26

2017 internship offer with Capitol Hill SREENIVAS KATRAGADDA

WASHINGTON DC: IndoAmerican Community Services (IACS), a national non-profit supporting the South Asian Community, is continuing its annual partnership connecting collegiate students with Congressional internships in Washington, D.C. The non-partisan organization places exceptional students in Congressional offices on both sides of the aisle. This program continues the organization's efforts to encourage civic and political engagement within the Indian-American community.

Details on page 27

Falguni Shah-Gosalia (wife) and Nimit Desai (son) with family

CHICAGO: An engineer by profession but an all rounder acclaimed as Community Sevak and erudite Jain scholar, Niranjan C Shah breathed his last in his adopted Chicagoland last week leaving behind him an array of saddened family members, rela-

tives, friends and members of Indian community at large Niranjan Shah, 74, came to this country in early sixties as a student and stayed put here working hard professionally as well as seeking to realize his dream of helping those in need. His master contribution was

to see that the first ever Jain temple in Chicagoland gets built besides hosted many scholars, visitors and devotees from India, because of his big heart, hospitality, warmth and generosity. He was a true follower of Jainism and had a huge library of Jain literature at his residence. He

NRIs hit hard by demonetization: GOPIO PRAKASH M SWAMY

BANGALORE: NRIs, ill prepared for the sudden demonetization of high value currency notes in India would be among the hardest hit. "One group that will be hit hard by the government's restrictions will be hundreds of delegates reaching Bengaluru for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention from all over the world," said Sunny Kulathakal, Convention Convener and GOPIO's Global Ambassador.

He added that many of them have in their possession demonetized currency notes that they may find difficult to exchange on arrival in India.

Details on page 28

A section of mourners gathered at cremation ceremony

spent a lifetime to establish the organization of JAINA or Federation of Jain Associations in North America, where he served as General Secretary and Vice President.

Schaumburg was his town in Illinois and he died there on December 28, 2016. He is survived by his wife, Falguni Shah-Gosalia, son Nimit Desai, and siblings. A huge capacity crowd joined in the cremation ceremony at Russo's Hillside Chapels in Hillside, on Friday, December 30.Besides family members, several people from his friend circle including Ravindra Kobavala, Vijay Meghani, Gourav Shah, paid homage to the departed soul.

Like a true visionary, pioneer and trailblazer, he was also described as a devoted person of Attma-siddhi Shashtra. To devote more time and energy towards this cause, he retired at the age of 44 from his engineering profession.

He also believed in sharing his wisdom and passion of Jainism through various interfaith communities' participation. Everyone at the gathering was full of praise and admiration for Niranjanbhai. The Jain society at large expressed its sense of loss after his demise.

Community Across America

January 6, 2017

India Post 25

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New Year at Pearl Banquet had lot of firsts SURESH BODIWALA

CHICAGO: New Year celebrations hosted by the Pearl Banquet turned out to be a huge success with a capacity crowd of over 800 flocking to take part in near five hours of entertainment and live program ringing in the New Year with huge fervor and joy.

The highlights of the celebrations were premium top shelf bar, multi cuisine food, fashion parade, entertainment, fun games & prizes, Balloon Drop, Champagne toast, kids activities and Bollywood mixes.

Songs by RJ Bhairavi and Maddy Singh Pearl Banquet entertainment team and host Ravi Rawat flanked by guests

proved a big attraction and so were Belly Dancers Safilre, Performances by Dr. Preeti Poindexter and Sunday Ke Funday RJ Team, dances by Dance by CBD Group Safalya, Shweta and Deepali. Grand Finale Performance by RJ Komal Kherde, Fashion Parade - Neesha Singh, Reena Merchant, Vinata Gulbani, Ankit Singh and Ankit Mahajan and for kids there was Activity Magician.

There were non-stop Bollywood Mixes

by DJ Sanjay & Deven of Arya Sound.

Pearl Banquet gathering

Full house New Year gala with Tanushree SURESH BODIWALA

CHICAGO: Pratibha Jairath's Bollywood Sargam celebrated New Year's Eve to usher in 2017 at Ashyana Banquets. It was attended by over 700 guests and invitees en-

joying the evening filled with fun and frolic.

The celebrity guest of the event was Tanushree Dutta, a well-known Bollywood actress, model and Miss India Universe 2004. The celebrations commencing at 8-30 pm lasted till 1 am January 1.

After a welcome address by Anoop Walia, the host of the evening, Ms. Pratibha Jairath set the mood of the evening with her beautiful voice singing "Prem rattan dhan payo" and " C h i t t i y a a n kalaiyaan". Later she was joined by her cohost, Raju Bankapur and sang many beautiful duets like "Radha teri chunri", "Badtameez dil", "Tum hi ho", "Tera bin jeena chhod doon", and "Make up karliya" to name a few.

Host Pratibha Jairam and Star attractionTanushree

Cont’d on page 28

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Community Across America

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Hari Om Mandir rings in New Year with awards Asian Media USA

CHICAGO: Devotees at Hari Om Mandir in Medinah, a north side

suburb of Chicago, kept up the tradition of ringing in the New Year, with "Akhand Ramayan Path" on Saturday, Dec 31. All

members of the Board, along with several devotees were in attendance at a formal Pooja and other rituals performed by the Temple

ings and prayed for the well being of all mankind.

The two Boards - Executive Board (EB) and Board of Trustees

Executive Board members, Board of Trustees and children celebrate the auspicious start of the New Year

Priest, Pandit Dinesh Kumar.

At Midnight, 12 o'clock, a big group of devotees rang in the New Year 2017, amidst chanting of prayers, bhajans, Ram Dhun and ringing of bells. Devotees took turns in reading the Holy Book and Ramayan Path was completed after 24 hours next day on January 1. People sang and danced with joy to celebrate the auspicious start of the New Year.

The Mandir was beautifully decorated with flowers, lights, buntings, banners etc. to usher in a new year of peace and prosperity. A grand lunch was served by the temple and people exchanged greetings, good wishes and embraced each other to seek bless-

was introduced as the President of the EB. He took charge from the outgoing President, Indrajit Sarkar.

Similarly, Ayodhya Salwan completed his term and handed over the charge to the New Chairman of the BOT, Satpal Salwan.

Plaques were awarded to the outgoing Office Bearers: Ayodhia Salwan, Mohan Karamchandani, Amar Singla, Mrs. Nirmal Bagga, Sham Taxali, Indrajit Sarkar and Mrs. Usha Verma, for their services to the Temple and community at large. New Members Mrs. Shubh Sharma, Jeetu Patel, Chandru Bhojwani, Upma Hardy and KrishanTejpal were also introduced to the public and given a warm welcome.

Hari Om Mandir is located at DuPage County in the heart of Chicago land. The Mandir has statues of all major North Indian Gods & Goddesses. Every Sunday there is a Havan and general congregation followed by Aarti and Bhojan Prasad. Every Monday there is Shiv Puja and every Tuesday there is Hanuman Challis Path. Two

Executive Board members honored with plaque for completing three years

(BOT) - that run the show all year round were introduced to the general congregation. Vipan Wadhera

learned priests are available in temple, for Poojas, Havan, Kathas etc in the temple and at home.

New Year with Yoga at Delaware church India Post News Service

DELAWARE: Church on Main in Middletown (Delaware) is going to "Start off the New Year right with Community Yoga", according to an announcement published on the Church website, titled as "Yoga to begin the New Year? Yes, please!"

The Church has urged all to "Join Church on Main for our New Year Community Yoga this Sunday at 9 am. There is no cover charge".Fernando Rodriguez is the Pastor at Church on Main in Middletown.

According an unmixed welcomed to this move by the Delaware Church, members of the Indian Americans at large and Hindus in particular, observed that

Yoga helps calming mind and improving health and hence, is beneficial to all irrespective of class creed and religious affiliations Yoga, referred as "a living fossil", was a mental and physical dis-

The Church has urged all to "Join Church on Main for our New Year Community Yoga this Sunday at 9 am� cipline, for everybody to share and benefit from, whose traces went back to around 2,000 BCE to Indus Valley civilization, said Rajan Zed, President of Universal Society of

Hinduism.

Yoga, although introduced and nourished by Hinduism, was a world heritage and liberation powerhouse to be utilized by all. According to Patanjali who codified it in Yoga Sutra, yoga was a methodical effort to attain perfection, through the control of the different elements of human nature, physical and psychical.

According to US National Institutes of Health, yoga may help one to feel more relaxed, be more flexible, improve posture, breathe deeply, and get rid of stress. According to "2016 Yoga in America Study", about 37 million Americans (which included many celebrities) now practice yoga; and yoga is strongly correlated with having a positive self image.

Community Across America

January 6, 2017

India Post 27

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2017 internship offer with Capitol Hill SREENIVAS KATRAGADDA

WASHINGTON DC: IndoAmerican Community Services (IACS), a national non-profit supporting the South Asian Community, is continuing its annual partnership connecting collegiate students with Congressional internships in Washington, D.C. The non-partisan organization places exceptional students in Congressional offices on both sides of the aisle. This program continues the organization's efforts to encourage civic and political engagement within the Indian-American community.

The Summer 2017 internship program application is live and will be accepted through January

21.

Sreyas Samantula in Washington DC

Sikhs keep up tradition of feeding homeless THAKAR BASATI

CHICAGO: Twenty members of American Sikh Community of Chicago helped feed the homeless on Christmas Day at Salvation Army head office in Chicago. This was close on one such feeding done on Thanksgiving Day. Motivated by S. Sarwan Singh

kids with them who otherwise may not get any food, let alone hot lunch. Kids were also given free toys donated by other charities.

There were people from other faiths too, like Jews, who were helping out.

There was plenty of hot food

Sikh volunteers, who fed homeless, with Nancy Powers of Salvation Army

and Bibi Jasvir Kaur Singh, Sikhs have been doing this since 1992.

Sikh Religious Society of Palatine and Illinois Sikh Community from Wheaton spread the word. People contribute money and work voluntarily for the event.

for over 500 people. They also got fresh pies and different types of drinks including hot tea and coffee. S Singh donated canned food items too. Major Nancy Powers of Salvation Army thanked the Sikhs and expressed her desire to bring more non-Sikhs to Gurdwara Sahib on her There was plenty of hot next visit to Gurdwara.

She said, "I have really food for over 500 people. enjoyed my visit to the They also got fresh pies Gurdwara and the respect showed to me by and different types of Sikh Sangat." This year many Sikh youth also drinks including hot tea joined the SEWA. and coffee.

Salvation Army provides drug de-addicSome families have been asso- tion at their new location and preciated with SEWA since its begin- pares the homeless for regular jobs ning and feel that this was how and ultimately home ownership.

Baba Nanak started Langar. Many They are located at 825 Christiana of these homeless people bring Ave in Chicago, Illinois, USA.

For eight weeks, both graduate and undergraduate students are exposed to policy making in the nation's capital, first hand.

Along with gaining unparalleled insight into public service, legislation construction and constituent care, selected interns are awarded a $2000 stipend after successful completion of the program.

Congressman Bill Foster, Foreign Affairs Chairman Ed Royce, Senator Dan Sullivan, Senator Mark Kirk, Congressman Danny Davis and Congresswoman Robin Kelly advocate for and hosted IACS interns in their D.C. offices.

IACS is excited to see the growth of Indian-American service in government, with this year's election of five IndianAmerican representatives to Congress. In its sixth year, the IACS internship program is looking to expand the reach of this enriching opportunity to more students across the country.

"We have already begun outreach efforts to Indian-American student groups across the country, in hopes of lending greater awareness to this program," said Joy Dhar, co-IACS internship li-

Sanjana Srinivas interned with Congresswoman Kelly

aison. "Sruthi Rao and I are looking forward to continuing our correspondence and helping

place candidates with an interest in public service in Congressional internships."

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NRIs hit hard by demonetization: GOPIO PRAKASH M SWAMY

BANGALORE: NRIs, ill prepared for the sudden demonetization of high value currency notes in India would be among the hardest hit. "One group that will be hit hard by the government's restrictions will be hundreds of delegates reaching Bengaluru for the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention from all over the world," said Sunny Kulathakal, Convention Convener and GOPIO's Global Ambassador.

other means.

Earlier, GOPIO President Niraj Baxi wrote to Finance Minister Arun Jaitley to extend by six months the cut-off date for depositing the demonetized notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 denominations.

"NRIs and PIOs should be allowed to exchange whatever amount they have as long as they show the proof of past conversion of foreign currency to Indian cur-

On 6th morning Dr. Shashi Tharoor, MP will inaugurate the panel discussion on Diaspora issues. It will be followed by panel dialogue on philanthropy by Lord Dilgit Rana, Lord Raj Loomba and others. Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien will be attending He added that many of them have in their possession demonetized currency notes that they may find difficult to exchange on arrival in India. GOPIO has requested the government to facilitate the exchange of these notes at various Indian embassies or

rency in the last 10 years," said Thomas Abraham, Chairman of GOPIO International.

GOPIO will discuss this and other issues at the convention in Bangalore on January 5 and 6 at Hotel Le Meridien, Bengaluru.

Union Minister of State for Exter-

nal Affairs M. J. Akbar will inaugurate the Convention at 4 PM on 5th. The Chief Ministers of Southern States of India and other prominent personalities will attend.

On 6th morning Dr. Shashi Tharoor, MP will inaugurate the panel discussion on Diaspora issues. It will be followed by panel dialogue on philanthropy by Lord Dilgit Rana, Lord Raj Loomba and others. Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien will be attending the valedictory function.

The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) is hosting its convention on January 5 and 6, at Hotel Le Meridien, Bengaluru in conjunction with Pravasi Bharatiya Divas conducted by the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.

This convention in Bengaluru attracts investors, political functionaries, business leaders from India and abroad and would be an important milestone which will chart out a course of action for the future.

Full house New Year gala with Tanushree

GOPIO, founded in New York in 1989, has been serving the 30 million global Indian communities for the last 27 years. GOPIO serves as an effective platform to channel NRI/PIO talents and investments to India their motherland.

Over the years, GOPIO has taken up issues of civil rights and human rights violations of the Indian Diaspora around the world and are pleased to say that our communities have joined the political mainstream in many of the Diaspora countries. The philanthropic and social causes undertaken by GOPIO among the needy and distressed NRIs and PIOs are acclaimed by one and all.

The Awards Banquet function at 7 pm on January 6 will be attended by Governor Vajubhai Vala, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and other dignitaries. GOPIO Community Service Awards will also be presented at the Finale Banquet event. This year's awardees are as follows: Abraham M. George, New Jersey, USA and Tamil Nadu, India: Abraham M. George is engaged in several social projects including: Shanti Bhavan Residential

School for children from socially and economically disadvantaged families; Indian Institute of Journalism & New Media (IIJNM) Chandu Patel, California USA: Chandu Patel has set up the Sabarkantha Health and Research Foundation (SHRF) to augment the state's healthcare system. He started Krishna General Hospital in Himatnagar and plans to up-

grade it to a medical college.

Dr. George Cherian, Bahrain: After a 25 year career in Neonatology that spanned 3 continents, for

the last 7 years Dr. Cherian has taken leadership of the American Mission Hospital in Bahrain. The hospital has been providing high quality care regardless of the ability to pay for the last 120 years.

Vinod Patel, Fiji: Vinod Chandra Patel has served Town and District of Ba as a Councilor and Mayor and as an elected Member of Parliament of Fiji on two occasions. His contributions

have been in the field of Education, Sports, Religion, Community Health, Local Government, and National Government and in Community and Philanthropy.

Ram Buxani, Dubai, UAE: Dr. Ram Buxani is a three time Forbes

Bollywood Sargam catering to usher in New Year Cont’d from page 25

Tanushree Dutta of Ashiq Banaya Apne fame was greeted with tremendous applause when she walked down the stairs. The evening was full of special games and surprises. A catwalk competition was conducted where Tanushree Dutta taught catwalk to

female audience members and announced two winners. Belly Dancer Christina set the dance floor afire with two beautiful performances. She entered the hall dancing and balancing a big shamadan candelabra on her head that was a treat to the eyes.

People sang, danced, and dined all through the evening into the

late hours with nonstop music by DJ Abhi and Nupur Sound. Colorful balloon drop filled the hall with beautiful colors as 2017 was ushered in. The guests said that they are looking forward to the party on 31st December, 2017 with Bollywood Sargam that put together this fabulous program this year.

awardee. He is the Chairman of the ITL-Cosmos Group, a diversified global business entity.

Cont’d on page 29

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Ganesha & Vishnu beers taken off website India Post News Service

CHICAGO: Amparo (Sao Paulo, Brazil) based "award-winning" Cervejaria Ashby brewery seems to have removed beers carrying images of Hindu deities Ganesha and Vishnu within few days of protest from members of Indian community at large. Beer with images of deities were not seen on its website on December 28, 2016.

"GaneshaAmbar IPA" and "Vishnu Red IPA" beers, when available on Ashby website, carried the picture of respective Hindu deity.

The protest spearheaded by Rajan Zed, president of Universal Society of Hinduism, and backed by NRI Press Club Chicago as well as Nand Kapur of AIA, strongly pitched for the withdrawal of objectionable Ganesha and Vishnu beers.

Zed however feels that a formal apology from Cervejaria

Ashby would go a long way to soothe the feeling of Hindu community.

Lord Ganesha and Lord Vishnu are highly revered in Hinduism and they are meant to be worshipped in temples or home shrines and not to be used in selling beer for mer-

The protest spearheaded by Rajan Zed, president of Universal Society of Hinduism, and backed by NRI Press Club Chicago as well as Nand Kapur of AIA, strongly pitched for the withdrawal of objectionable Ganesha and Vishnu beers cantile greed. Lord Ganesha is worshipped as god of wisdom and remover of obstacles and is invoked before the beginning of any major undertaking. Lord Vishnu is "preserver" in the Hindu triad with Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva as the destroyer aspect of the Su-

NRIs hit hard by demonetization: GOPIO Cont’d from page 28

He is a visionary entrepreneur, endowed with unfailing business acumen. His autobiography "Taking the High Road", is now in its second edition.

Naliandra (Jay) Naidu, Durban, South Africa: Jay is currently employed as group head (home care) for Amka, a major toiletry and household company in South Africa. He has been with Amka for 28 years. He studied marketing and sales at various business institutions in South Africa.

preme.

Cervejaria Ashby, describing itself as "Brazilian breakfast tradition since 1993," laid claim to be the "first microbrewery in Brazil".

When available on website, Vishnu Red IPA, with 45 IBU, was stated to have alcohol content of 5.8%;

while GaneshaAmbar IPA, with 40 IBU, was shown with alcohol content of 5.4%. Amparo, known for its Winter Festival, is the seat of Roman Catholic Diocese of Amparo.

Horoscope

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January 6, 2017

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Jan 06th - Jan 12th 2017 Please send your birthday, place of birth and time, so I can give you your zodiac sign, according to Vedic astrology. Send to Jaysastrology@gmail.com

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he professional matters look better. The promotions/recognition may be delayed. The students need more efforts. The health of father needs extra care. It is better to avoid haste and conflicts. Difficult time for women, please take care of yourself. Avoid unnecessary driving and take care of your health.Patience is the Mantra for you up to September 2017.

he professional matters look better, enjoy work.

Things start improving. Those who are in international trading may get new opportunities. The child may need help. Social interaction and communication is ok. The health needs care. Avoid conflicting situations up to February 2017, and take continued care of your health. Exercise patience. Romance wise is ok, avoid major disputes.

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he professional matters face sudden problems.

Manage problems and conflicts with patience. Silence is golden. There is extra mental stress. Handle relationship matters with patience. Keep new ventures pending. Avoid manipulations and people trying to cheat you. Child may need help. Avoid haste, speculation, aggressive behaviour and unnecessary driving.

he professional matters face obstructions, setbacks and delays. Handle relationship with care avoid disputes, and property matters with patience. Child needs extra care & help focus on the children. Some additional stress, losses and extra expenses are likely.It is better to avoid unnecessary driving, risky ventures and avoid places that are not safe. Take care of your health.

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he professional matters may face sudden problems. The promotion is likely to be delayed. Some additional expenses are likely.

Stay away from manipulations, don't get in a position where you can be taken advantage offIt is better to avoid new ventures. The child may need help. Rough week. Romance wise take is easy and go slow, avoid confrontations.

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rofessional matters look a shade better. The promotion may be delayed.

Health of family may cause concern. Better to avoid unnecessary driving and risky ventures. The prolonged transit planetary influences caused by Rahu/Ketu are difficult for those whose ascending degree is around 9 or some planet is around 9 degree in odd signs up to 15th of April, 2017.

he professional matters look better. Students and those who are appearing in selections have good chance of success. The new opportunities are likely to face sudden problems. The prolonged transit planetary influences caused by Rahu/Ketu are difficult for those whose ascending degree is around 9 or some planet is around 9 degree in odd signs up to 15th of April, 2017.

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he professional matters may face concerns. The mental peace is likely to be disturbed. Stay away from manipulations. Some additional expenses are likely.Silence is golden for you. Better to avoid conflicts.

The prolonged transit planetary influences caused by Rahu/Ketu are difficult for those whose ascending degree is around 9 or some planet is around 9 degree in odd signs.

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he professional matters face sudden problems and conflicts. Those who are in temporary assignments face job threat. Keep new ventures pending. The health of father may cause concerns.

The week may involve some additional expenses. Some problems may surface in inheritance matters. Avoid haste, aggressive behaviour, conflicts, unnecessary expenses and driving/travel.

he professional matters look better. Additional expenses are likely. The new business opportunities should be put on hold up to January, 2017. These new ventures started at wrong time can cause total loss of business. Avoid speculation, and investing in stock market, Always invest in safe assets.Patience is the best medicine up to January, 2017.

he professional matters are ok. Obstructions are likely in the sources of income. Health of the parents may cause concerns look after them. Manage obstructions with patience. It is better to avoid manipulations and unnecessary driving. This means risky behavior being in wrong places at wrong time.

Romance wise is ok, avoid conflicts. Patience is the remdy this week.

he professional matters are ok, nothing major going on at work. Some business related journey is seen.

Some additional expenses are likely. Health of the spouse is vulnerable any issues arises take her to doctor. Focus on spouse. Manage things with patience to avoid sudden mishaps. This is due the closeness of Mars and Rahu. Romance this week is not good.

This weekly horoscope is more focused and accurate as these are based on ascending signs. The ascending sign is worked out on the basis of your date, time and place of birth. You will find the predictions at other places based on your Sun sign or Moon sign. The Sun remains in one sign of zodiac for one month whereas the Moon remains in one sign for about 54 hours. It is the ascending sign, which changes every couple of hours." That is how this site offers you more focused predictions.

JATIN P - ACHARYA MIHIR • JAYSASTROLOGY@GMAIL.COM • 630-675-7148

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TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

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riyanka Chopra achieved many career milestones in 2016 and the actress is happy to share it with her family. Priyanka ranks eighth in the Forbes list of highest paid celebrities/sports personalities in the world. She was also on Time Magazine's '100 Most Influential People' of the year as well.

Besides this, the 'Quantico' actress figured on IMDb's (Internet Movie Database) list of most popular celebrities, at number 55 leaving behind a host of Hollywood stars like Jennifer Aniston, 'Harry Potter' actor Emma Watson, Leonardo DiCaprio and Johnny Depp.

Just four days after the official announcement, Priyanka moved up to the 16th spot on the IMDb's list. "It all feels great and incredible. I am on number 16 now on IMDb list... appearing on Forbes and Time magazine. I don't have words to describe it." Priyanka said. "I am very excited. I share my happiness with my family. My mother is proud of my work and whatever I have achieved. I will just keep working."

1 Nashe Si Chadh Gayi: Befikre 2 Channa Mereya: Ae Dil Hai Mushkil 3 Love You Zindagi: Dear Zindagi 4 Ude Dil Befikre: Befkire 5 Dhaakad: Dangal 6 The Breakup Song: Ae Dil Hai Mushkil 7 Haanikaarak Bapu : Dangal 8 Ae Dil Hai Mushkil: Ae Dil Hai Mushkil 9 Tu hi hai : Dear Zindagi 10 Gilehriyaan: Dangal

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S

hraddha Kapoor, who recently wrapped up the shoot for 'Half Girlfriend,' got emotional at the wrap party. When the actress was asked to speak a few words sharing her experience at the wrap, she got a rush of a lot of emotions and teary-eyes, while speaking.

The reason for this was that, she was working with the same team for the third time, after blockbusters 'Aashiqui 2' and 'Ek Villain.' 'Aashiqui 2,' which was a turning point in Shraddha's career especially brings back a lot of emotions.

'Half Girlfriend' also marks Shraddha's second film with Ekta Kapoor. It was like going back home for her. Shraddha also took to twitter saying, "It's been amazing with an amazing team. Such awesomely passionate talents coming together. This beautiful world of making films."

ccording to grapevine, Kriti Sanon will star opposite Aamir Khan in the 'Thugs of Hindostan'. It is learnt that Aamir Khan wanted a younger face to cast opposite him and so he expressed his desire to rope in the 'Diwale' actress.

YRF's 'Thugs of Hindostan' will bring Amitabh Bachchan and Aamir Khan together for the first time. It is set in the preindependence era and tells the story of a group of 'thugs' in British India who take the lives of innocent people for money and other valuable items.

Aamir Khan is thrilled to work with Amitabh Bachchan.

"Finally, the moment I've been waiting for has come... to work with my icon, Mr. Bachchan! Thanks Adi (Aditya Chopra), Victor, for 'Thugs of Hindostan'. I'm too thrilled to be working with the actor I have admired all of my life.

"Shoot starts early next year, and the release has been locked for Diwali 2018.

Can't wait to get started! Fingers crossed," Aamir posted on Facebook.

It is learnt that Aamir Khan wanted a younger face to cast opposite him and so he expressed his desire to rope in the 'Diwale' actress

Bollywood

January 6, 2017

India Post 37

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T

he action-packed film 'xXx: Return of Xander Cage', which will mark actress Deepika Padukone's Hollywood foray, will release in India 'before anywhere else' in the world on January 14.

"Thrilled to announce that 'XxX: Return of Xander Cage' will release in India first! Before anywhere else in the world! January 14." Deepika tweeted.

The actress plays a character named Serena Unger in the upcoming international film, which features Hollywood actor Vin Diesel in the lead role. Directed by DJ Caruso, 'xXx: The Return of Xander Cage' is a sequel to the 2002 film 'xXx' and '2005 film xXx: State of the Union'. The film also stars Ruby Rose, Samuel L Jackson, Donnie Yen and Tony Jaa.

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andeep Hooda is surprised that Omung Kumar's 'Sarbjit' is fighting for space in the long list for Best Picture at the 89th Oscar awards. The actor, who played the title role, says, "My first reaction was, 'I am not sure what this has been shortlisted for'. It was a pleasant surprise." Having said that, he is happy about the film getting a bigger platform.

"It's an emotional story of human rights violation and an ode to Sarabjit's spirit. Competing for a place in the nominations' list will help the film reach the widest audience possible," he says.

The biopic of Sarabjit Singh, an Indian national who was convicted by Pakistan for spying and terrorism, will be competing with 335 films to make it to the nominations list in the Best Picture category at the upcoming Academy awards. After languishing in Pak jails for over 22 years, Sarbjit was killed, allegedly by fellow inmates, in 2013.

"It's an emotional story of human rights violation and an ode to Sarabjit's spirit. Competing for a place in the nominations' list will help the film reach the widest audience possible,"

erman-Indian model turned actress Evelyn Sharma is on cloud nine. The sexy siren will be seen in Imtiaz Ali's 'The Ring' starring Shah Rukh Khan and Anushka Sharma, as well as in a lead role in a romcom co-starring Amit Sadh.

Having completed six years in Bollywood and calling Mumbai her home, Evelyn feels blessed to have bagged roles in big banners. Reminiscing her journey, she says, "It hasn't been easy. My mother's German and father's a Punjabi (Indian). This made me feel like an outsider as Germans thought I looked Spanish or Mexican and Indians believe I look like a foreigner. I had to learn Hindi and interestingly, after coming to India, I found myself."

Ask her about working with Ranbir Kapoor ('Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani') and now SRK and she gushes, "I was smitten

by Ranbir. He is a new-age charmer. He exudes this sexy, young, bad boy vibe, while SRK is truly charming as he is a thorough gentleman."

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January 6, 2017

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India Post 39

40 India Post MUMBAI: Bollywood star Priyanka Chopra says when she chose to explore acting opportunities in the West, her only worry was whether she would be able to make a name for herself in Hollywood.

Priyanka, 34, earned global fame after starring in hit American TV show "Quantico". She has since made appearances on popular talk shows, graced top magazine covers, walked red carpets at award shows across America and was also present at the White House Correspondents' dinner hosted by outgoing US President Barack Obama.

"My worry (in the US), as an Indian actress, was whether the global entertainment industry was ready to see an Indian actor in the lead, as we haven't seen one before - be it in television or films. I was worried

www.indiapost.com

January 6, 2017

about it as it had not happened with any Indian actress," Priyanka told PTI in an interview.

"My worry was 'Will I be good enough?'

But I had such a wonderful reception. I have got so much love and affection. The only thing to do now is keep evolving. I only think about how I can grow more and what more can I do."

Priyanka entered the Hindi film industry after winning the Miss World title in 2000.

She made a mark in Bollywood with films like "Aitraaz", "Fashion", "Barfi", "Mary

"My worry was 'Will I be good enough?' But I had such a wonderful reception. I have got so much love and affection.

Kom" and "Bajirao Mastani" among others and then turned to Hollywood to explore acting opportunities there.

She made her acting debut in Hollywood with American television show "Quantico" and is also

part of the "Baywatch" film which will release next year.

"When I was going to another country (US), I was not worried about acting as I know my job well. I know the technical aspects, I have tremendous experience of working with incredible filmmakers who have taught me my job," she says.

"I can stand on the world stage and be confident about my work as my training was with the most prolific film industry in the world which is the Hindi film industry."

Cont'd on Page 42

January 6, 2017

India Post 41 www.indiapost.com

Wisdom of Indian traditions in one volume VINOD DHAWAN India Post News Service

Y

ou may find good books on subjects like yoga, dis eases and their cure, food and diet, Ayurveda and life saving herbs, Kundalini, Karma, Self realization, meditation and ways of worship. But to find the wisdom

Dr. Manohar Lal Sharma

of all these encapsulated in one volume is the achievement of Dr Manohar Lal Sharma in his new book, 'Towards a Holistic Life'.

Many of the practices recommended here come out of his own experience. Each yoga asan has been illustrated with demonstraBOOK tion poses by the author himself.

Dr Sharma has been an Indian government servant and at the same time took pains to acquire mastery in various disciplines and immersed himself in occult sciences research - all this in the teeth of opposition from his family.

He qualified as a teacher in Yoga with natural hygiene and yogic Diet, Registered Medical Practioner in Yoga and Acupressure and gained Ayurveda certification from Baidyananth. He studied Reiki to the level of Grand Mastership and cured people with the help of Reiki and Pranic healing.

His spiritual journey has been equally remarkable and he has related his experiences of mediation under various gurus, among them Baba Muktananda of

Ganeshpuri, Maharashtra and Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.

Dr Sharma doesn't merely describe various modes of living REVIEW a holistic life but he himself practices healing people through these. He quotes ancient sage Charak to describe reasons for poor health and then recommends ways to gaining good health and wisdom.

Charak says all diseases originate from offences against wisdom or foibles of human thinking. According to Dr Sharma, "not all physical diseases are communicable or caused by infection.

Many are due to the imbalance in the metabolism (the continuous process of destruction and regeneration of live cells in the body).

Digestion and elimination are both vital aspects of the metabolic process. The loss of digestive fire is the prime cause for development of most diseases. Just as excess of fuel snuffs out a fire, it is temptation and greed that makes a man

Deadline cooking: Chicken & veg stir-fry

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fter the holidays, our ap petites can go in a couple of different directions. On the one hand, after a steady diet of stuffed birds and figgy puddings, we seek something lighter, something that feels clean and simple. On the other hand, it's cold out there, and we want food that's satisfying to curl up with.

What to do, what to do...

What's that I see? (Insert upbeat superhero music here.) A stirfry on the horizon? (Insert hoofbeats.) Why, that's just the thing.

This is fast, simple and immensely flavorful without being heavy.

CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE STIR-FRY WITH GINGER AND OYSTER SAUCE Serves 4 Start to finish: 35 minutes 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 3/4-inch dice 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon cornstarch 2 tablespoon oyster sauce 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1/2 teaspoon sugar 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided 2 teaspoons minced fresh gin-

ger 2 teaspoons minced garlic 1/2 pound sugar snap peas, trimmed and de-stringed 1 cup diced red bell pepper 8 ounces baby spinach 1/2 cup chicken broth Hot cooked rice or quinoa to serve In a large bowl, toss the

chicken with about half of the salt, the pepper and the cornstarch until the chicken is well coated. Set aside.

In a small bowl, mix together the oyster sauce, sesame oil and sugar.

Heat a large skillet or wok, preferably nonstick, over medium high heat. Heat 1 tablespoon of the vegetable oil in the pan, then add the ginger and garlic and give a brief stir. Add the chicken and stir fry

until it turns white, about 2 minutes. Transfer the partially cooked chicken to a plate with a slotted spoon.

Return the pan to medium high heat. Add the remaining tablespoon oil, then add the sugar snap peas and peppers and sautĂŠ for 1 minute. Then add the spinach by the handful and stir-fry until it wilts, adding more as the volume goes down, until all of the spinach is added and somewhat wilted. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the oyster sauce mixture, and return the partially cooked chicken to the pan.

Simmer, stirring occasionally for another 2 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through. Serve over the hot rice or quinoa.

Nutritional information: Nutrition information per serving: 242 calories; 94 calories from fat; 11 g fat (1 g saturated; X g trans fats); 62 mg cholesterol; 578 mg sodium; 12 g carbohydrate; 3 g fiber; 4 g sugar; 23 g protein. -AP

a glutton. As a golden rule, remain a little hungry at all times. Do not overload the stomach. Overeating is akin to digging one's own grave."

In the chapter on Diet, he says,

Book cover

"Follow these diet and sleep tips

which will keep you young and fit." And what are the tips? In short, he says, "Nature teaches us to live in accordance with its laws just as other creatures do. But humans today, unmindful of such laws, are indulging in wrong eating and living habits, thus creating problems not only for themselves but also for the entire world.

Over-indulgence in any mode of life is the main cause for suffering and disease. To mitigate this problem, we have to live a life of moderation and take preventive measures."

There are exhaustive chapters on worship of the Mother and conducting rituals of Navratris. The Prayers to Mother Goddess are listed both in English and Hindi.

Dr Sharma's beneficial work has been praised by many leading personalities among them the Governor of Jammu & Kashmir N.N. Vohra and (Hony) Brigadier Arvind Lal of Dr Lal Pathlabs.

Salman sticks to a balanced diet MUMBAI: Superstar Salman Khan says he likes to live a healthy lifestyle and tries to stick to a balanced diet.

The star, who turned a year older, launched his personal app to be in touch with his fans and opened up about his workout regime on the same.

"I cycle, swim, go to the gym, eat the right kind of food, and sleep late, as I don't get sleep easily. The kind of food you eat is as important as your workout. I like leading a healthy lifestyle, and avoid processed and sugary food," says Salman.

The "Sultan" star says his diet is high in protein and yellow dal cooked by his mom is his all time favorite.

"My all-time favorite will remain the Yellow Dal that my mom cooked. My favorite dishes include rajma, chawal, and roti, very simple food.

"As far as my diet is concerned, for breakfast, I eat four egg whites and some low-fat milk. Pre-workout, I have a protein shake, and two egg whites. Post workout, it is a protein bar, oats, almonds and three egg-whites. Lunch is largely

meat, and includes mutton, fried fish, salad and lots of fruit. Dinner could be anything - chicken, fish, vegetables, or soup."

Salman is known for starting the trend of having a fit physique and the actor says he religiously workouts to maintain a healthy body.

"I work out daily and follow a disciplined regime that consists of weight training and cardio. I usu-

ally focus on only few body parts - biceps, triceps, abs, legs and back. I can do multiple sit-ups, push-ups or crunches at a time."

The superstar ringed in his 51st birthday at his Panvel farmhouse with his close friends and family. -PTI

42 India Post

January 6, 2017 www.indiapost.com

Michelle loved fashion & fashion world loved her NEW YORK: The morning after Michelle Obama's big speech at the Democratic National Convention in 2012, in which she argued passionately for a second term for her husband, designer Tracy Reese's phone was ringing.

And ringing.

Mrs. Obama's powerfully delivered speech had attracted much attention - but these phone calls were about her dress. A shimmering sleeveless sheath in rose and silvery gray, it was pretty universally considered a fashion slam dunk. And customers wanted it.

There was only one problem, Reese recalls: ``We didn't have inventory - we had made that dress custom.'' And so the label went into production. ``And people waited,'' Reese says. ``You know, so many people admire Mrs. Obama and they want to dress like her. We sold quite a few of those dresses.'' She estimates the number at over 2,000.

Reese, who hails from Detroit, is one of the first lady's favored designers - Mrs. Obama has been photographed in her clothes some 20 to 30 times. But unlike some past first ladies who favored one or two big-name designers, Mrs. Obama has spread her fashion choices among a huge stable of them - often promoting lesser-known names, and taking care to promote American designers at such highprofile events as inaugurations, conventions and state dinners.

Which is why so many designers and industry watchers will miss her when she steps away from her post after eight fashion-conscious years, and why they con-

sider her one of the most influential first ladies in fashion, perhaps even more so than Jacqueline Kennedy, because of her broad appeal. ``Michelle Obama embraced everyone,'' says Andre Leon Talley, a fashion editor at Vogue magazine. ``She embraced black

accessible fashion,'' Reese says. ``I think Jackie (Kennedy) was a great role model but she wore a lot of couture, and things that most Americans could not afford.'' Mrs. Obama, she says, has worn both high-end and moderately priced fashion.

Reese, who is African-Ameri-

First lady Michelle Obama, dressed in a Tracy Reese pink silk jaquard dress, walks on the stage at the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. Reese, who hails from Detroit, is clearly one of the first lady’s favored designers as Obama has been photographed in her clothes between 20 and 30 times.

designers, Asian designers, European designers. ... She was very democratic in her choice of clothes.''

And that includes wearing fashion that ordinary women could potentially afford - like cardigans from the retailer J. Crew. ``She's made an effort to wear

can, is particularly proud that one of her designs - a black dress printed with bright red flowers - is on display at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The first lady wore it to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington.

Mrs. Obama set the stage for her broad-based fashion choices with her first inauguration. Previous first ladies had often gone with established luxury designers like Oscar de la Renta. Mrs. Obama wore a two-piece lemongrasshued ensemble by Cuban-American designer Isabel Toledo for day, and a one-shouldered white gown by New York-based, Taiwanese-Canadian designer Jason Wu at night.

For her husband's second inauguration, she wore a sleek coat and dress by American designer Thom Browne, known for his eclectic talents, and in the evening Jason Wu again. ``It was an honor to have the opportunity to dress Mrs. Obama,'' Browne said in an email message. ``She is such a stylish individual because of her confidence and intelligence.''

For Browne, Toledo, Reese and others, it was never clear until the moment Mrs. Obama actually appeared whether she would be wearing their designs. ``We would get calls periodically from her team,'' says Reese. ``But we never knew exactly what things were for and when she would be wearing them. And I think that that's just necessary, because you don't know when plans will change.''

However it unfolded, it certainly could change a designer's career. ``We've been brought to the attention of millions more people than we ever would have reached,'' Reese says.

David Yermack, a professor of corporate finance at New York

University, studied the financial impact of Mrs. Obama's fashion choices in her first year as first lady. He says he found an immediate spike in stock prices of companies whose apparel she wore (he only examined publicly traded companies). ``There was a very strong and immediate reaction in the stock prices of the design firms and also the retailers,'' Yermack says. For major appearances, this could run into the tens of millions of dollars: ``That's happened many times with her.''

And the public, Yermack says, remembers what Mrs. Obama wears. ``Do you remember what Pat Nixon or Laura Bush wore? She has the ability to hold the interest of the consumer in a way that almost no one else does. I've looked far and wide - Kate Middleton, Carla Bruni. Nobody begins to approach Mrs. Obama on this.''

Yermack thinks what's different about Mrs. Obama is that first ladies ``have traditionally tried to be nondescript in the way they dressed they didn't want to overshadow their spouses ... or be seen as spending a lot on clothing. But she had no inhibitions in that sense. ``She really had an impact on how professional women dressed, and how you could have fun with fashion, in a way that you couldn't imagine Rosalynn Carter or Barbara Bush ever doing,'' he says. ``It's a very short list of first ladies who are going to leave that kind of legacy.'' -AP

What worried Priyanka in Hollywood Cont'd from Page 40

To present Golden Globe Awards 2016 ensured that Priyanka Chopra is on top of the world!

Rocking the West with her TV show Quantico, she made her debut as presenter at international award shows with this year's People's Choice Awards. She then sashayed down her way to the Oscars in March this year, when she made headlines for her red carpet debut in a stunning Zuhair Murad ensemble. Next up for Priyanka was the Emmy Awards, when she shared the stage with Hollywood heartthrob Tom Hiddleston, who twirled and twirled Priyanka and the cameras could not stop clicking. Now, Priyanka is all set to present at the

Golden Globe Awards 2017. The Awards will be hosted by TV personality Jimmy Fallon at The Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles on January 8 which will air in India the following day.

Priyanka will present alongside Hollywood bigwigs like Nicole Kidman, Chris Pine, Eddie

Redmayne, Drew Barrymore, Matt Damon, Viola Davis, Justin Theroux, Sophia Vergara, Mandy Moore and Zoes Aaldana and Brie Larson. This will be Priyanka Chopra's debut appearance at the Golden Globe Awards.

Priyanka has taken a break from her Quantico schedule and is back

home for the holidays. At the moment, Priyanka can be spotted in the party destination Goa where she is letting her hair down with family and friends on New Year's eve.

Priyanka has a very packed schedule after her winter holidays - she will get busy with the remaining portions of Quantico season 2. She will also be prepping for People's Choice Award, for which she has been nominated for the second time in a row, courtesy her performance as FBI-turned-CIA agent Alex Parrish on Quantico.

Priyanka will also be gearing for the release of her Hollywood debut the Baywatch movie. Baywatch features Priyanka Chopra as the main villain Victoria Leeds and also stars Dwayne Johnson. It releases

on May 26.

While in India, Priyanka will zero in on two Bollywood films for next year, reported news agency PTI. Priyanka was at the Stardust Awards in Mumbai when she said: "I will be doing two Bollywood films next year. I have come to India to decide on those films. By the end of January, I will finalize which those films will be."

Priyanka Chopra received her Padma Shri some months ago and has also ranked on the Forbes' list of the world's highest paid TV actresses this year. She has scored a place ahead of actors like Jennifer Aniston and Leonardo DiCaprio on an iMDB list of the most popular celebrities of 2016.

Priyanka's last Bollywood project was Prakash Jha's Jai Gangaajal.-PTI

January 6, 2017

India Post 43

Shraddha moves in with boyfriend Farhan

T

he 'Aashiqui 2' star Shraddha Kapoor has found love in actor-composer-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar and according to the latest grapevine, the couple has moved in together. Farhan and Shraddha's friendship culminated into true love while shooting for 'Rock On 2'.

The lovebirds share common passion - music and films and these bind them together.

But Shraddha and Farhan's love story won't be so easy. The greatest barrier in their love life is Shraddha's family. Papa Shakti Kapoor turned red hot when he learnt that his daughter has moved in with a man who is yet to seek divorce from his wife Adhuna Akhtar and who is much older than his daughter.

Moreover, Farhan is also a father of two grown up daughters. Highly furious Shakti Kapoor headed to Farhan's house and dragged his daughter back home. He is dead against his beti's live-in relationship with Farhan.

He did not go alone to bring the actress back. He was accompanied by his sister-in-law and veteran actor Padmini Kolhapuree.

Shraddha did not create a scene when Shakti went to bring

her back and she quietly came back to her Juhu residence.

Farhan and Shraddha made their relationship public when they cheered for each other at the re-

cent Global Citizen Coldplay concert in Mumbai.

When Farhan took the stage, Shraddha cheered for him aloud.

Their off-screen chemistry is making a lot of buzz. Their action proved that they are purely in love and do not want to hide being in love.

Instead of playing hide and seek game, Shraddha and Farhan are openly dating and seemed enjoying each other's company to the fullest. Farhan also mingled with Shraddha's aunt and veteran actress Padmini Kolhapure at the Coldplay concert.

They were not only together throughout the concert but also seen together at Shah Rukh Khan's after-party at Mannat.

Through they arrived separately in different cars, the couple remained connected together throughout the bash and also left the party late. First Farhan's car arrived and then Shraddha It did not end here. Recently when Farhan hosted a house-warming party, Shraddha was the last to leave. Farhan Akhtar and his estranged wife Adhuna Bhabani have already started the legal divorce proceedings.

New device lets you kiss long-distance lover LONDON: You can now send a physical kiss to your long-distance lover over the internet, thanks to a new smartphone gadget developed by researchers.

The device, known as Kissenger, works with pressure sensors and actuators.

It records the users kiss and transmits it to an identical receiving device, which recreates it for the person on the other end through an app that also features videocalling.

"Kissing is the most direct and universal expression of intimacy and affection," said Emma Yann Zhang, who worked on the prototype as PhD student at City University London.

"It's a way for us to bond and

maintain intimacy in our relationships," she said.

"Also, it is stress reducing; when we engage in this kind of intimate physical touch, we have a lower level of blood pressure,"

Zhang was quoted as saying by the Mirror.

Parents can also use Kissenger to give their children a kiss on the cheek when they are away at work, researchers said. -PTI

This remote kissing device will save your long-distance relationship

Advantage of being an outsider

S

he had a dream debut in Bollywood opposite super star Shah Rukh Khan in 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi', but her ride

Anushka Sharma

in showbiz has been bumpy with several highs and lows.

Actress Anushka Sharma - who has completed eight years since she walked into the glitzy Hindi movie world - says having no strings attached to film families, worked in her favor.

The actress said she started her journey with a clean slate - without any 'preconceived notions about the way you have to do

things'. "Being an outsider turned out to be an advantage for me. I didn't come with any preconceived notions about the way you have to do things, so I have just been exactly the way I am at home." Anushka said.

'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi' may have given her a good launchpad, but her sail into showbiz was not smooth. If we talk about her film career, then it seems to be a case of several hits and misses. She faced failure with films like 'Badmaash Company', 'Patiala House', 'Bombay Velvet', and 'Matru ki Bijlee ka Mandola'. But on the other hand, she earned applause for films like 'Jab Tak Hai Jaan', 'PK' and 'NH10'.

The hard-hitting 'NH10' marked her foray into the film making business as a producer. She is currently riding high on back-to-back commercial success with 'Sultan' and 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil'. Be it a hit or a miss, Anushka never takes anything to heart, or get stuck in her mind.

"It is important to have that sense of reality (that) you will have successes and you will have failures and you will have to be somewhere in between." asserted the 28-year-old actress, who has also been in news for her relationship status with cricketer Virat Kohli, the trolls that followed after their rumored break-up, and her infamous lip augmentation.

„ Health

Line

Patient donates pizza prize to food bank NORTHAMPTON, Pa.: A Pennsylvania man going through treatment for colon cancer won a pizza parlor's raffle for a year's worth of free pies and then donated his prize to a food bank.

Thirty-six-year-old Josh Katrick, of Northampton, had just completed his eighth round of chemotherapy when he learned he was the winner of a contest sponsored by his favorite neighborhood restaurant.

After hearing of Katrick's plans to donate the pizza to the Northampton Food Bank, the owners of Mario's Pizza decided to double down and offer the prize to both him and the food bank.

Katrick says he's been getting so much from family, friends and strangers during the past few months that he wanted to give back to those who could use the pizza more.

Roughly 1,200 people entered the contest. -AP

National Death Registry to be set up NEW DELHI: The Union Health Ministry in collaboration with AIIMS will come up with a National Death Registry which will have data about deaths, including their causes, in hospitals across the country.

"The objective is to have a nationwide database about the causes of deaths occurring in hospitals in various regions of India. This will help policy makers have a better understanding of disease outbreaks so as to optimize the resources and healthcare facilities in respective regions," Deepak Agrawal, chairman, computerization, AIIMS, said.

AIIMS has already implemented the pilot version of the death registry with the unique feature of having a coding system called the Systematized Nomenclature of Medicine (SNOMED), an international standard of providing codes, terms and synonyms and definitions which cover anatomy, diseases, findings, procedures, microorganisms, etc.

"This is the first time that such an international coding system is being implemented in healthcare in India," said a Health Ministry official.

The official said the ministry has called a meeting of all state health departments so as to have the program rolled out across India.

AIIMS will be technical as well as the implementing partner for this program. -PTI

Health Science 44 India Post

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January 6, 2017

New tech detects skin cancer early Details on Page 47

Indian develops 'smart' shoes with intelligence to boost fitness WASHINGTON: An Indian start-up has developed a range of fitness wearables, such as 'smart' shoes and bands, integrated with an artificial intelligence (AI) coach which can provide you a personalized dynamic feedback, based on your real-time performance and training.

While a variety of fitness trackers and apps are available, most generate data that users are not able to appropriately interpret.

"Consumers usually are not experts in nutrition, fitness activity, sports and wellness and hence deciphering the data most wearables track becomes a challenge," a company official told PTI. "There are dietitians and fitness coach subscriptions available with a lot of fitness devices, but that is time-bound and means additional investment from the consumer," it said.

The new wearables come with an interactive app that uses statistics and data captured from the connected devices to help make better training and running decisions.

An AI coach gives dynamic audio feedback, based on users' real-time performance and train-

ing.

A 24x7 text coaching and user interaction also guides and supports the user in eating healthier, getting more active, and building great lifestyle habits.

Going beyond traditional track-

"Till now, all activity trackers and wearables gave data. We are conspiring to change that by inferring this data and giving it meaning," said Arnav Kishore, CEO and founder of Boltt, a Delhi NCRbased start up.

Boltt says the new smart shoes will scientifically improve running, track and further fitness levels and show the consumer their health in a whole new way.

ing, the AI health coach records and analyses the data of the user.

This data is broken down into movements classified into various forms of activity, along with automatic detection of sleep and its various stages and patterns.

"With Boltt, the mission is to empower millions of users around the globe to take a leap towards a healthier lifestyle. With an evergrowing market for wearables and people taking fitness seriously, in India, there is an increased focus

on how we consume what is sold in the name of 'fitness,'" said Aayushi Kishore, CMO and cofounder of the company.

"With a customized data analysis and meaningful insights garnered through Boltt, Indian audience will get the niche they are looking for regarding personalized health coaching," she said.

The data also includes a module for nutrition, which a user can log into the mobile application with millions of items to choose from.

Based on this data, the AI health coach provides a real time chat guidance, on the most relevant elements, depending on what time of the day, the user logs in.

By tracking daily activity through the day, the AI coach helps users can stay on track with their fitness goals.

The "Central Intelligence" is built via complex integration of rules, algorithms and machine learning.

The products will be unveiled on January 6 at CES, Las Vegas in the US and would be available for pre-order through the popular crowd-funding platform Kickstarter. -PTI

Carey entertains woman with breast cancer BERLIN, Conn.: Christmas arrived a week early for a smiling Larissa Podermanski when she met pop star Mariah Carey backstage at the Beacon Theater in New York City.

Fast-forward to the end of a fairytale night when Podermanski, who grew up in Middletown and Middlefield, spoke to Carey, an international musical diva, during a 15-minute private interlude backstage.

Podermanski was able to convey to Carey how her work has inspired her since she was a teen, she said. ``I had a chance to tell my story about breast cancer and everyone was very intrigued by what I had to say,'' said

Podermanski, who was glad to have lost the ``jitters'' prior to meeting Carey.

The evening was the culmination of whirlwind events after get-

ting notice hours earlier that a car would arrive for her and her husband, Martin Podermanski, to whisk them to Gotham, where the diva was set to perform.

Mariah Carey performs at the 82nd Annual Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting ceremony in New York.

Since diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer last spring, Podermanski, 30, has undergone treatment, including weekly chemotherapy.

When asked what wish she might want if one were granted, Podermanski always replied, ``I'd like to meet Mariah,'' she said. ``Music helps when you are having a bad day,'' said Podermanski. ``When days are harder and you feel alone - cancer can be very lonely - when you are having a bad day, when no one understands you, music can pull you out of depression.''

Podermanski has been undergoing treatment since June.

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Female binge drinkers unfairly stigmatized LONDON: Women who binge drink are depicted more negatively by the media than men who do the same thing, according to new UK research.

Researchers at the University of Glasgow and Glasgow Caledonian University in the UK investigated how the media report women's and men's binge drinking.

They analyzed 308 articles published

over two years in seven popular UK national newspapers and found that women's binge drinking was given more coverage in the media, despite men drinking more in reality.

As well as misrepresenting differences in the amount that each gender drinks, the researchers found that articles depicted women's and men's binge drinking in very different ways.

Articles typically linked women's binge drinking to impacts on personal appearance, both in terms of physical appearance and public behaviors, according to the study published in BMJ Open.

Newspapers presented female drinkers as haggard, vulnerable, physically incapacitated and socially transgressive. There was also a tendency to characterize women as inconvenient burdens to their male drink-

ing companions.

While the research is about what the newspapers say, rather than what readers think, the researchers suggest that the types of unrealistic portrayals of binge drinking they found could give audiences inaccurate understandings of what binge drinking is, what its effects are and how to lower their own health risks.

"Media coverage of women's binge drinking is not just about health or public disorder; it also performs a moralizing, paternalistic role, reflecting broader social expectations about women's public behavior," Chris Patterson, from the MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, said.

"As well as unfairly stigmatizing women, media coverage of binge drinking is problematic in terms of communication information about a serious health issue to the public.

"Evidence suggests that the public view binge drinking as a masculine activity and statistics tell us that men do drink more than women in reality, but the media are depicting a different story," said Patterson.

"The reason why this matters is that the media have a big influence on how we understand the world, and therefore on how we behave.

"If audiences take newspapers depictions of binge drinking to heart, they could be led to believe that binge drinking is primarily the domain of raucous young women, and that the main threats it presents are to our public appearance, rather than our longterm health," he added. -PTI

Health club to compensate for false promise NEW DELHI: A district consumer forum here has asked a city-based health club to refund over Rs 77,000 and compensate a man for adopting "unfair trade practice" by promising to reduce his body weight by 10 kg within a month.

The forum also directed the East Delhi body clinic to pay Rs 25,000 as compensation to Janak Puri-resident Vinod Sharma, who allegedly lost only 100 grams, for mental and physical pain, agony and suffering.

"The OP (health clinic) is directed to pay Rs 77,500, cost of body reduction treatment, and a compensation of Rs 25,000 for mental and physical pain, agony, suffering and litigation expenses," the forum said.

According to the complaint, Sharma,

weighing 93.5 kg, had visited the body clinic on February 17, 2013. He had claimed that the employees promised him 10 kg weight loss within a month, for which he paid Rs 77,500.

However, after a month, his body weight had reduced only by 100 grams, it said.

"The OP (clinic) has charged Rs 77,500 from complainant (Sharma) for weight reduction program for one month from February 17, 2013 to March 15, 2013 but there was no weight reduction of the complainant.

Therefore, the OP has adopted unfair trade practice," the forum observed.

Denying the allegations, the health club claimed it had never promised to reduce the weight by 10 kgs within a month. -PTI

Modern lifestyle harming middle-aged people LONDON: Modern lifestyle is taking a toll on the health of middle-aged men and women, according to a new study in the UK which shows that obesity has become the new normal as many can not identify what a healthy body looks like.

Eight out of 10 of the middle aged either weigh too much, drink too much or do not exercise enough, according to the new analysis from Public Health England (PHE).

About 83 per cent of 40- to 60-year-olds (87 per cent of men and 79 per cent of women) who are either overweight or obese, exceed the Chief Medical Officers (CMO) alcohol guidelines or are physically inactive.

"Modern life is harming the health of the nation: 77 per cent of men and 63 per cent of women in middle age are overweight or obese," researchers said.

Obesity in adults has shot up 16 per cent in the last 20 years. Many also can not identify what a healthy body looks like, suggesting obesity has become the new normal.

The diabetes rate among this age group also doubled in this period in England.

Obese adults are more than five times more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes than those who are a healthy weight (a BMI between 18.5 and 25). Ninety per cent of adults with diabetes have Type 2.

People are busy with work, with families, with the daily grind and sometimes their own health is the least of their priorities.

"The demands of modern day living are taking their toll on the health of the nation, and its those in middle age that are suffering the consequences most, as their health reaches worrying new levels," said Muir Gray, Clinical Adviser for the PHEs One You campaign, which provides support and tools to help people live more healthily.

"Just making a few small changes will have significant benefits to people's health now and in later life," said Gray.

"We know that people often bury their heads in the sand when it comes to their general health but the consequences of doing nothing can be catastrophic," said Dan Howarth, Head of Care at Diabetes UK. "There are an estimated 11.9 million people at increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes in the UK because of their lifestyle and more than one million who already have the condition but have not yet been diagnosed," Howarth said. -PTI

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Shoulder pain may hint heart disease risk LOS ANGELES: Your shoulder pain may not just be a result of excessive physical strain, say scientists who warn that the condition could point to an increased risk of heart disease.

A new study led by researchers from the University of Utah in the US found that individuals with symptoms that put them at increased risk for heart disease could be more likely to have shoulder problems, including joint pain and rotator cuff injury.

"If someone has rotator cuff problems, it could be a sign that there is something else going on.

They may need to manage risk factors for heart disease," said Kurt Hegmann from University of Utah.

Repeated physical stress is most frequently blamed for aggravating shoulder joints and the muscles and tendons that surround them.

Think about a pitcher who throws a baseball 100 times a day.

While physical exertion can certainly be an irritant, accumulating evidence points other factors that could also be at play.

Previous research found that people who had an increased risk for heart disease also had a tendency towards carpal tunnel syndrome, Achilles tendinitis and ten-

nis elbow, all musculoskeletal disorders.

The current study adds shoulder problems to the list and takes the connection one step further.

The more heart disease risk factors that each of the study participants had racked up - including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes - the more likely they

It may seem like physical strain would be at least just as likely to cause shoulder pain but data from the 1,226 skilled laborers who took part in the study suggest otherwise. were to have had shoulder trouble.

As many as 36 participants with the most severe collection of risk factors were 4.6 times more likely than those with none of the risk factors to have had shoulder joint pain.

They were also nearly six times more likely to have had a second shoulder condition, rotator cuff tendinopathy.

Participants with mid-level heart risk were less likely to have had either shoulder condition, at 1.5 to three-fold. Shared trends bolster that there could be a relationship between heart risk and shoulder problems, but researchers will need to follow up with a prospective study to prove cause and effect.

It may seem like physical strain would be at least just as likely to cause shoulder pain but data from the 1,226 skilled laborers who took part in the study suggest otherwise.

Ergonomists carefully monitored airbag manufacturers, meat, processors, cabinet makers and skilled laborers.

Every forceful twist, push and pull was factored into a strain index assigned to each worker. However a more straining job did not translate to an uptick in shoulder difficulties.

Nor did more time spent doing other physical activities.

"Cardiovascular disease risk factors could be more important than job factors for incurring these types of problems," said Hegmann.

The study was published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine. -PTI

New genetic immune disorder identified WASHINGTON: Scientists have identified a new genetic immune disorder that is characterized by increased susceptibility to a virus associated to a type of cancer.

The researchers studied two unrelated sets of siblings with similar immune problems and determined their symptoms were likely caused by a lack of CD70, a protein found on the surface of several types of immune cells.

Both sets of siblings had evidence of uncontrolled infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), a common and usually mild virus, which resulted in the development of cancer called Hodgkin's lymphoma in three of these children.

Each child also had other immune symptoms, such as reduced activity of pathogen-fighting T cells, low production of antibodies and poor activation of antibody-producing B cells.

Researchers at the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) analyzed the

genomes of all four children and found that each had two mutated copies of the CD70 gene, resulting in nonfunctioning or nonexistent CD70 proteins.

All four parents, who had healthy immune systems, had only one copy of the mutation - indicating that CD70 deficiency fol-

While no specific treatment for CD70 deficiency currently exists, each of the four children has recovered from Hodgkin's lymphoma and is receiving antibody infusions lows an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance.

This means affected individu-

als receive a flawed gene from each parent in order to have symptoms.

While no specific treatment for CD70 deficiency currently exists, each of the four children has recovered from Hodgkin's lymphoma and is receiving antibody infusions to help bolster the immune system.

The research also offers insight into the normal role of CD70. Previous studies showed that CD70 interacts with another immune cell protein called CD27, an interaction that may be important for the proper function of lymphocytes.

This hypothesis is affirmed by these latest findings on CD70 deficiency.

The research also indicated that investigators testing experimental medications that decrease the activity of CD70 or CD27 - a possible strategy for combating autoimmune disease - should be aware of a possible risk of EBVrelated complications.

The study appears in the Journal of Experimental Medicine. -PTI

Burning more fat, less glucose leads to Diabetes HOUSTON: Making muscles burn more fat and less glucose may increase exercise endurance but simultaneously cause diabetes, a new study has warned.

Mouse muscles use glucose (carbohydrate) as fuel when the animals are awake and active and switch to fat (lipid) when they are asleep.

Researchers from Baylor College of Medicine in the US discovered that disrupting this natural cycle may lead to diabetes but, surprisingly, also can enhance exercise endurance.

The switch is controlled by a molecule called histone deacetylase 3 or HDAC3. This finding opens the possibility of selecting the right time to exercise for losing body fat but also raises the concern of using HDAC inhibitors as doping drugs for endurance exercise.

"How the muscle uses glucose is regulated by its internal circadian clock that anticipates the level of its activity during the day and at night," said Zheng Sun from Baylor.

"The circadian clock works by turning certain genes on and off as the 24-hour cycle progresses.

HDAC3 is a key connection between the circadian clock and gene expression," said Sun. "Our previous work showed that HDAC3 helps the liver alternate between producing glucose and producing lipid. In this work, we studied how HDAC3 controls the use of different fuels in skeletal muscle," Sun added.

Skeletal muscles, the voluntary muscles, are important in the control of blood glucose in the body.

They consume most of the glucose and if they develop insulin resistance and consequently are not able to use glucose, then diabetes likely will develop.

To study the role of HDAC3 in mouse skeletal muscle, Sun and

colleagues genetically engineered laboratory mice to deplete HDAC3 only in the skeletal muscles.

Then they compared these knocked out mice with normal mice regarding how their muscles burn fuel.

When normal mice eat, their blood sugar increases and insulin is released, which stimulates muscles to take in and use glucose

When normal mice eat, their blood sugar increases and insulin is released, which stimulates muscles to take in and use glucose as fuel. as fuel.

"When the knocked out mice ate, their blood sugar increased and insulin was released just fine, but their muscles refused to take in and use glucose. Lacking HDAC3 made the mice insulin resistant and more prone to develop diabetes," Sun said.

"Yet, when the HDAC3knocked out mice ran on a treadmill, they showed superior endurance, which was intriguing because diabetes is usually associated with poor muscle performance.

Glucose is the main fuel of muscle, so if a condition limits the use of glucose, the expectation is low performance in endurance exercises," Sun added.

Researchers studied what fueled the HDAC3-knocked out mice's stellar performance using metabolomics approaches and found that their muscles break down more amino acids. -PTI

TV's disturbing impact on viewers HAGERSTOWN, Md.: An art exhibit in Hagerstown explores the sometimes disturbing impact of television on viewers.

One of the 10 pieces, titled ``NRA Channel,'' features a TV screen showing five figures firing handguns. An adjacent panel reads, ``Most children will witness 18,000 murders before the age of 14.'' The work is by the single-name artist DeGibnio, who has several pieces in the

show.

A work by Megan Knarr, titled ``Pacifier,'' is a hypnotic, blackand-white painting on large flatscreen TV. Jim McKay's contribution is called ``Your Message.'' It's an old console TV flickering with static and decorated with dolls. Painted on the screen are the words, ``Doesn't everyone get msgs.'' The dolls hold signs urging viewers to keep watching. -AP

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New tech detects skin cancer early WASHINGTON: An automated technology has been developed by researchers that combine imaging with digital analysis and machine learning to help physicians detect melanoma at its early stages.

People with melanoma often have molelooking growths on their skin that tend to be irregular in shape and color and can be hard to tell apart from benign ones, making the disease difficult to diagnose.

James Krueger, Professor at Rockefeller University in the United States stated, "There is a real need for standardization across the field of dermatology in how melanomas are evaluated."

Krueger also added, "Detection through screening saves lives but is very challenging visually, and even when a suspicious lesion is extracted and biopsied, it is confirmed to be melanoma in only about 10 per cent of cases."

In the new approach developed by re-

searchers, images of lesions are processed by a series of computer programs that extract information about the number of colors present in a growth and other quantitative data.

The analysis generates an overall risk score, called a Q-score, which indicates the likelihood that the growth is cancerous.

A recent study evaluating the tool's usefulness indicates that the Q-score yields 98 per cent sensitivity, meaning it is very likely to correctly identify early melanomas on the skin.

The ability of the test to correctly diagnose normal moles was 36 per cent, approaching the levels achieved by expert dermatologists performing visual examinations of suspect moles under the microscope.

"The success of the Q-score in predicting melanoma is a marked improvement over competing technologies," said Daniel Gareau, instructor in clinical investigation

Carey entertains woman with breast cancer Cont’d from page 44

She was diagnosed months earlier with stage 2 breast cancer and, following a double mastectomy, she and her husband learned that the cancer had already spread to her liver and bones.

With creative assistance from her dedicated oncology nurses, Podermanski had a music video filmed, which shows a smiling, singing Podermanski as she receives chemotherapy. She is surrounded by nurses donning Mariah Carey masks as they sing backup to Podermanski's lead in a personalized rendition of ``All I Want For Christmas is You.''

``Is there any way you can come to New York today?

We are going to pick you up,''' Carey's staff informed Podermanski When they learned of her wish, the oncology nurses at Starling Physicians jumped into action, creating the video message in short order. A team of nurses put together holiday costumes, tweaked song lyrics and created lots of cheer, Podermanski said. Standing in a ring around their patient, the nurses hold Carey masks on sticks and read lyrics written on the other side, Podermanski said.

The last time the Podermanskis saw Carey perform was Dec. 17, 2015, the night Martin proposed to Marissa.

A year to the day later, an invite to the Dec. 17 show came from Carey herself. The video, which was posted online, collected thousands of views on Facebook, Youtube, comedienne Ellen DeGeneres' website, ellennation.com, and thepinkagenda.org, a national breast cancer awareness advocacy group. ``I didn't think it would go viral,'' said

Podermanski, founder of Community Navigators, a nonprofit that serves people with disabilities. ``I didn't think I'd meet Mariah Carey.''

After Carey's longtime backup singer MaryAnn Tatum saw the video, she looped Carey into a quickly unfolding story. From there, plans took shape quickly. Within days, the couple accepted an invitation to Saturday's sold-out show.

The night also included dinner for two and door-to-door transport, said Podermanski.

The surprise call came at noon Saturday. ```Is there any way you can come to New York today? We are going to pick you up,''' Carey's staff informed Podermanski, she said. ``Everything after that was a surprise.

I just went along for the ride.''

Podermanski still feels a thrill thinking about the magical night. ``People say, `You look really healthy, you look really good,''' said Podermanski, adding that ``cancer takes a lot out of you.''

The couple appreciated the much-needed distraction from their regular routine ``to do the things you want to do - it's empowering,'' said Podermanski, who continues to advocate for people with disabilities, and now intends to educate others about metastatic breast cancer and the importance of early diagnosis, she said. ``It's scary telling your story but there's a lot of positivity that comes with it,'' Podermanski said. ``Doing things to keep going is so important.''

A favorite Carey song, ``Can't Take That Away (Mariah's theme),'' offers her particular inspiration, Podermanski said. The lyrics read, in part: ``'Cause there's a light in me/ that shines brightly/ they can try/ but they can't take that away from me.'' ``I know I have this light inside me,'' said Podermanski. ``And I won't let cancer take it away from me.'' ``She is always looking at the positive,'' Martin Podermanski added. -AP

in the Krueger laboratory.

The researchers developed this tool by feeding 60 photos of cancerous melanomas

of the lesion mattered most in terms of malignancy - and gave each biomarker a malignancy rating.

By combining the data from each biomarker, they calculated the overall Q-score for each image, a value between zero and one in which a higher number indicates a higher probability of a lesion being a cancerous.

As previous studies have shown, the number of colors in a lesion turned out to be the most significant biomarker for New method generates an overall risk score, called a Qdetermining malignancy. score, which indicates the likelihood that the growth is Some biomarkers were cancerous. significant only if looked and an equivalent batch of pictures of be- at in specific color channels - a finding the nign growths into image processing pro- researchers say could potentially be exploited to identify additional biomarkers and grams.

They developed imaging biomarkers to further improve accuracy.

"I think this technology could help deprecisely quantify visual features of the tect the disease earlier, which could save growths.

Using computational methods, they gen- lives, and avoid unnecessary biopsies too," erated a set of quantitative metrics that dif- said Gareau.

The research was published in the jourfered between the two groups of images essentially identifying what visual aspects nal Experimental Dermatology. -PTI

Datebook

48 India Post

January 6, 2017

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NEW JERSEY Upcoming

NEW YORK

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Upcoming

Upcoming

Fri, Jan 27 • Glow in the Dark Ladies Night

Sat, Jan 14 • Bollywood Beats - A Weekly Saturday Night

Venue: Royal Alberts Palace(Grand Ball Room), 1050 King Georges Post Rd, Edison, NJ 08837 Time: 07:30 pm

Venue: Lexicon, 226 E 54th St, New York, NY 10022 Time : 10:00 pm

Sat, Jan 28 • Dance pe Chance - Dance Competition 2017 Venue: Plainfield High School, 950 Park Avenue, Plainfield, Nj 07060 Time: 04:00 pm

Sun, Jan 29 • NJTS Pongal Thiruvizha Venue: West Windsor High School South, 346 Clarksville Road, West Windsor Township, NJ 08550 Time: 02:00 pm

Sat, Jan 21 • Bollywood Beats - A Weekly Saturday Night Venue: Lexicon, 226 E 54th St, New York, NY 10022 Time : 10:00 pm

Sat, Mar 11 • The Biggest HOLI Party in New York City Venue: Stage48, 605 West 48th Street, New York, NY 10036 Time : 12:00 pm

Sat, Jan 7 • The Indian Street Food Festival

CHICAGO

Upcoming Sun, Jan 29 • Patti Manram by Tamilkadal 'Nellai Kannan'

Venue: Santa Clara Country fairgrounds,

Venue: Jain Temple, 722 South Main Street,

344 Tully Rd, San Jose, CA 95111

Milpitas, CA 95035

Time: 05:00 pm

Time: 03:00 pm

Sat, Jan 14 • BAYVP Kite Flying Uttarayan 2017 Venue: Independence High School Soccer Field, 1776 Educational Park Drive, San Jose, CA 95133 Time: 11:00 am

Thu, Jan 19 • 2017 Outsourced Comedy Tour Venue: Tommy T's Comedy Club, 5104 Hopyard Road, Pleasanton, CA 94588 Time: 07:30 pm Contact: 510-299-0788

Sat, Jan 28 • Jai Ho! 6 Year Anniversary Bollywood Dance Party Venue: Slide SF, 430 M-ason Street, San Francisco, CA 94102 Time: 9:00 pm

Sat, Jan 28 • Bollywood Fever Retro Remix Night Venue: Aura Night Club, 389 South 1st Street, San Jose, CA 95113 Time: 10:00 pm Contact: 510-870-4693

Contact: 510-406-0047

Sat, Feb 4 • Iffer Valentines Ball 2017 Venue: Golden Peacock Banquets, 24989 Santa Clara St, Hayward, CA 94544 Time: 6:00 pm Contact: 650-921-2846

ATLANTA Upcoming Thu, Jan 12 • Creative Meditation Venue: Brahma Kumaris Meditation Center, 13914 Josey Lane, Farmers Branch, TX 75234 Time: 7:00 pm

Fri, Jan 13 • Bollywood Bhangra Night Venue: Club 54, 37722 Van Dyke, Sterling Heights, MI 48312 Time: 7:00 pm Contact: 586-354-0316

Sat, Jan 14 • The Healer Of Past Present – Future Venue: Chowdaiah Memorial Hall, Malleswaram, Bangalore., 5000 Estate Time: 8:45 pm

ILLINOIS Upcoming 1st and 3rd Sunday of Month • Chicago Children's Bal Mukund Character Building Program and Hindi Literacy Classes Venue: Vogelei Center, 650 W. Higgins Road, Hoffmann Estates, IL 60192 (Next to Nissan Dealership) Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630-561-4807

Mondays and Fridays • Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes Metropolitan Asian Family Services Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL, Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Contact: 773-465-3105

Mondays and Fridays • Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes Where: Metropolitan Asian Family Services Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL, Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Contact: 773-465-3105

Swami Ishatmananda • Bhagavad Gita: Philosophy of life Venue: Public Library-95th Street 3015 Cedar Glade Rd Naperville IL 60564 Time: 1st friday of every month 7-8 pm Contact: 630-637-0662

• India Eternal: From the Vedic Age to the Present Venue: Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago 10915 N. Main Street Glendale Heights, IL 60139 Time: 10:00 pm Contact: 630-655-8822

January 6, 2017

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U

ntil the early part of the eighteenth century, Darjeeling was under the king of Sikkim. Later Gorkhas invaded the re gion and annexed the area, which they eventually lost to the British. The British used the place to escape the heat and found the strategic importance of the area. They, hence, developed the area as a hill station and teagrowing area. Darjeeling is well known for its tea industry and eco-tourism.

Darjeeling is thought to be derived from the word Dorjeeling, which literally means 'the place of Dorjee' the majestic thunderbolt. Some believe that the thunderbolt belongs to the Lamaist religion and some believe that it belongs to Lord Indra.

Timber, tea, and tourism underpin the economy of Darjeeling. The tea plantations were originally developed by the British.

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Oranges and cardamom are also available in plenty. Traditional arts and crafts of Tibet and Sikkim are the products available for shopping. Traditional Tibetan and Sikkimese food as well as other Indian cuisines are available.

Rain can be expected any time in a year.

Summer and spring are the two seasons most popular with the visitors. Darjeeling is a famous destination for Bollywood and Bengali film shooting.

The most popular and ubiquitous mode of transport is a four-wheel drive. Land Rovers, especially, are the choice of tourists.

They can easily serpentine through the steep and sometimes narrow roads of the hill.

Several local festivals are celebrated throughout the year. The festivals are colorful and the visitors should ensure that they are in Darjeeling to take part in the celebrations.

January 6, 2017

Tourist attractions Kanchenjunga: Kanchenjunga is the third highest mountain in the world (the first two being Mount Everest and K2), standing at an altitude of 8586 m. There are five peaks in Kanchenjunga. If you watch Kanchenjunga from the Observatory Hills, you might be deceived that the mountain is a calm and serene upheaval of ice and snow.

Passenger Ropeway: One of the most beautiful attractions of Darjeeling, the passenger ropeway starts at North Point, about 3 km from town. This is India's first passenger ropeway. This ropeway, which is 5 kilometers long, connects Darjeeling with Singla Bazaar on the Ranjit River at the bottom of the valley.

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'Totally safe' to visit Kashmir: Tour operators SRINAGAR: Terming Kashmir as a safe place for tourists, a delegation of tour operators from different parts of the country, who were on a familiarization tour of the Valley, here called upon the people to visit the "heaven on earth", saying the atmosphere here was "totally positive."

"We have seen a total positive atmosphere here in the Valley right from the airport. Till now in these 20 years (since the militancy broke out in Kashmir), no untoward incident has happened with any tourist in Kashmir. They remained safe here, feel safe and it is safe here," Satish Shah of Pooja Holidays Mumbai told PTI here.

Shah was part of a 25-member delegation of tour operators on a Familiarization tour of the Valley on the invitation of the Department of Tourism, Kashmir.

During their stay of four days in Kashmir, the tour operators visited many famous places of the Valley, including Pahalgam, Gulmarg and Srinagar to assess the situation after months of unrest following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Burhan Wani in July.

Shah said people outside the state were worried because of the situation but the tour operators would now assure them that the place was safe for the tourists.

"They are a little worried because of what we get to hear from the media. However, we will assure them that it is totally safe here and

there is no comparison whatsoever of the hospitality here. Now, we have to bring back that flow of tourists which was broken because of the situation. We have to bring back the tourists to the heaven on earth," he said.

Shah said no other destination in the world is like Kashmir.

"The tourists must come here. I have visited many places around the globe. This is a much better place than Switzerland. What you cannot enjoy there even after spending Rupees three lakh, you can here enjoy by just spending around Rs 25-30 thousand.

"We are taking this message that this heaven is totally safe and there is no problem and the people here are waiting to welcome you.

There is no destination like Kashmir, not only in India but in the whole world," he said.

The tour operator said Kashmir was their most favored destination and they would promote it with full dedication.

They have even started an exclusive Kashmir-themed office in Mumbai to attract the intending visitors.

"Almost 50 per cent of our yearly turnover is of Kashmir, but the place is not just our bread and butter, it is our life. For the first time in Mumbai, we recently opened a new office for Kashmir only which has an exclusive Kashmir gallery where various famous places of the Valley are being promoted," he said.

Another tour operator, Sudhir Patani of Patani Tours, Mumbai, said Kashmir was their second home.

"We feel Kashmir is like our second home. We are so related to the Valley that whenever we visit here, we feel like at home. We are very much positive, the CM (Mehbooba Mufti) gave us assur-

"We did not feel that there is any problem in moving around here. We are planning press conferences in Mumbai, Ahmedabad and Kolkata once we return so that we sent a message across to the people that whatever is being fed to them (through media), there is nothing like that. Kashmir is very safe and you can go ahead with what you

ance and the department is taking steps.

The people are so eager to visit.

I expect that there will be such a huge rush of tourists here now that the Valley can barely cope, he said.

He said while the tour operators were facing losses due to the situation in the Valley, they were "hopeful of seeing the same hustle-bustle in Kashmir" which was here before July.

are planning," Patani said.

Similar views were echoed by Gujarat-based Navbharat Holidays director Rohit Thakkar, who said that the tourists should visit the Valley and the government should try to dispel the apprehensions of the people.

"We had a good time here. The place is absolutely safe.

The tourists should visit in large numbers but the government

8.91 lakh tourists visited India in Nov NEW DELHI: 8.91 lakh foreign tourists visited India in November this year, a growth of 9.3 per cent over the same month last year, indicating that demonetization move did not impact the tourists' footfall adversely.

Foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) during November 2015 was 8.16 lakh, while it was 7.65 lakh in November 2014.

Foreign Exchange Earnings (FEEs) from tourism during the month of November were Rs 14,474 crore as compared to Rs 12,649 crore in the same month last year, recording a growth of 14.4 per cent.

The US accounted for highest share of tourist arrivals followed by the UK and Bangladesh in November 2016, according to an official release.

FTAs during January-November, 2016 were 78.53 lakh, recording a growth of 10.4 per cent as compared to 71.14 lakh during the corresponding period last year.

FEEs from tourism in JanuaryNovember were Rs 1,38,845 crore, witnessing an increase of 14.7 per cent as compared to the Rs 1,21,041 crore during the corresponding period last year.

Among the top 15 source countries in November, share of the US was highest with 15.53 per cent, followed by the UK (11.21 per cent), Bangladesh (10.72 per cent), Canada (4.66 per cent), Russia (4.53 per cent), Australia (4.04 per cent) and Malaysia (3.65 per cent).

The share of Germany was 3.53 per cent, while that of China 3.14

per cent, France 2.88 per cent, Sri Lanka 2.49 per cent, Japan 2.49 per cent, Singapore 2.16 per cent, Nepal 1.46 per cent and Thailand 1.37 per cent.

Among the top 15 ports, the share of Delhi Airport was highest with 32.71 per cent, followed by Mumbai Airport (18.51 per cent), Chennai Airport (6.83 per cent), Bengaluru Airport (5.89 per cent), Haridaspur Land check post (5.87 per cent), Goa Airport (5.63 per cent), Kolkata Airport (3.90 per cent) and Cochin Airport (3.29 per cent).

The share of Hyderabad Airport was 3.14 per cent, while that of Ahmadabad Airport (2.76 per cent), Trivandrum Airport (1.54 per cent), Trichy Airport (1.53 per cent), Gede Rail (1.16 per cent), Amritsar Airport (1.15 per cent), and Ghojadanga land check post (0.82 per cent). -PTI

must try to dispel the apprehensions the people outside the state have. They should be assured," Thakkar said.

The delegation said they had interactions with many stake-holders in the Valley who all pitched for the return of the tourists.

"We have had interactions with the local travel fraternity, local taxi unions and pony wallas. Overall, the experience has been good. It is just that the tourist flow should now start and we are receiving a very good response from the people on our social media posts.

"They as well as the people here want that tourism comes back to its original glory in Kashmir," said Vishvajeet Patil of Mumbaibased Raja Rani Travels, known to bring a lot of tourists to the Valley.

Patil said tourism was the "backbone of Kashmir and should not be affected."

"We are from Mumbai and have had a lot of similar episodes but that does not curtail life in Mumbai. So, also I feel that life or tourism, that is the backbone of Kashmir, should not be affected.

These things happen and it is sometimes blown out by the media or by some other angle.

"But we have not felt any kind of restrictions in our movement or enjoyment. We moved freely and were not under any security cover.

We feel that the place is ready to welcome the tourists in a big way, he stressed. -PTI

Demonetization fails to hit tourist arrivals NEW DELHI: Demonetization did not have "any adverse impact" on foreign tourist arrivals and foreign exchange earnings as these segments recorded a "robust" growth in November when the drive was launched, the government has said, dismissing fears that the huge exercise may hit tourism.

According to the tourism ministry, foreign footfalls saw a growth of 9.3 per cent at 8.91 lakh in November compared to 8.16 lakh in the month last year. The foreign exchange earnings registered a growth of 14.4 per cent at Rs 14,474 crore compared to Rs 11,431 crore in the same period in 2015.

"It can thus be observed that demonetization did not have any adverse impact on the foreign tourist arrival and foreign exchange earnings which have shown robust growth over the comparative period last year," it said in a statement.

The government has taken steps to ensure "no hardship is

faced" by tourists and the industry is not affected due to demonetization, the ministry said, claiming that "government efforts have paid dividends" with growth in the figures.

In fact, the number of e-tickets sold during the 30 days after the move to demonetize currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 was announcement on November 8 increased to 28,176 compared to 2,807 during the 30 days prior to the televised decision, witnessing earnings of Rs 181.49 lakh and Rs 3.10 lakh in the comparative period, the ministry said.

"It can therefore be seen that sale of e-tickets and earnings have increased significantly by 10 and 58 times respectively as people are buying tickets for ASI monuments online through cashless payments," it added.

Following the demonetization move, there were fears that it may affect the tourism industry. -PTI

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Cont’d from page 50

Trekking: Darjeeling is the first hill station of India where organized trekking was first conducted.

It was in the year 1840 that the first organized trekking route in India was established here along the Singalila range. Since then, the breathtaking picturesque views of Everest and Kanchenjunga have been attracting thousands of nature lovers from different parts of the world.

Darjeeling Toy Train: The Darjeeling Toy Train made its first journey in September 1881. The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway acquired UNESCO's endorsement as a World Heritage icon in 1999. The journey starts from Siliguri and at

Chunamandi the train comes to its z-crossing, starting the zig-zagging or reversing in order to attain higher elevation. Sensation corners, which are nothing but loops, are excellent viewing points.

Batasia Loop: Batasia Loop, a massive railway loop around 5 km from Darjeeling is a great place to enjoy a 360 degree view of the beautiful landscapes of Darjeeling and the majestic Kanchenjunga range. It was built with the aim of lowering the gradient of ascent of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

Commissioned in the year 1919, Batasia Loop commands wonderful view of the serene surroundings with snowcapped mountains of the Eastern Himalayas.

Coronation Bridge: Coronation Bridge, also known as Sevoke Coronation Bridge, was built in

1930 at the confluence of Rangeet River and Teesta River in West Bengal to mark the Coronation of King George V. This bridge, located close to Sevokeswari Kali Mandir in Siliguri, is a very important in the north east region of India and connects Darjeeling with Jaipalguri.

Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: Everest Museum and Mountaineering Museum are entered through the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute Zoo. The zoo and the two museums are run by the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, which trains mountaineers.

The mountaineering museum has a grand collection of historical mountaineering equipment,

specimens of Himalayan flora and fauna, and a relief model of the Himalayas.

Nature Interpretation Centre: Nature Interpretation Centre in Kalimpong, a great idea on work, provides the great information on the effect of human activities in the Earth's environment. This centre is established and managed by the

forest department. It carries out information collecting and research on flora and fauna in the hilly forests of Kalimpong and also watches the human interaction with these natural gifts. It highlights the need for soil conservation, dwindling of forest wealth and also extinct animals and birds.

Badamtam Tea Estate: Badamtan Tea Estate was originally owned by the more than 150years-old Lebong Tea Company.

The tea estate was one of the tea companies owned and managed by the British. It is located across the Rangit River. A walk to this tea estate will take a refreshing half a day.

Durpin Dara Hill: Durpin Dara Hill, located at a height of 1402 m, is a vantage point that gives a bird's-eye-view of the spectacular serene mountains, plains and rivers. Durpin, meaning "binoculars" in Nepali is a great spot that offers a clear view of the majestic mountain Kanchenjunga.

Flower Nurseries: Kalimpong is a place with lots of flower nurseries, which specialize in cultivation of exotic beautiful flowers. The largest number of commercial flower nurseries are found in Kalimpong. These flower nurseries exports beautiful exotic flowers to different parts of the country. You can visit some of the nurseries across the town and look for your collection of flowers, orchids and cacti, which are available in abundance here.

Ganga Maya Park: Just 3 km from the Rock Garden is the Ganga Maya Park, a newly added tourist attraction in Darjeeling. The charming bridges constructed over the stream give a serene view of the lush green surrounding. Enjoy the transparent stream flowing over the rocky bed. Set within the park

is a beautiful fountain. There is also a small lake with paddle boating facilities. Besides, during tourist season, the park hosts Gorkha folk dances to entertain the tourists.

Surya Sen Park: The Surya Sen Park, a favorite picnic spot among the local people, is located at Mahakal Pally near Siliguri. This is an eco-friendly place for fun,

Mirik Lake: Mirik Lake, also referred to as Samendu Lake is the most picturesque spot in Mirik.

Located in the heart of Mirik, the lake is 1.25 km in length and the depth of the water varies from a minimum of 3 ft to a maximum of 26 ft. With serene surroundings, a walk around the lake would be a fascinating one. Besides, visitors can also enjoy boating and horse riding here.

Observatory Hill: The Mall Road originates and culminates at the Chowrashtra. The hill atop the Mall is the Observatory Hill. This hill holds great importance for Hindus and Buddhists.

Rock Garden: Rock Garden, also referred to as Barbotey Rock Garden is located at a distance of around 10 km from Darjeeling. It was established by the Gorkha Hill Council Tourism Department and was inaugurated by Subhash Ghising, the ex-chairman of the Council. Created by cutting rocks at different levels with terraced seating arrangements at several points, the garden is a perfect blend of natural and artificial creation.

Saramsa Garden: Saramsa Garden is a popular tourist spot in Kalimpong. It was constituted in year 1922 by the forest department of India. It is home to numerous species of exotic orchids and other uncommon tropical plants of Sikkim. It also has many fruit trees.

The garden was established and sustained by the department of forests. It is a splendid recreational and picnic spot.

entertainment and increasing awareness about alternative energy sources. An exhibition in the park offers fundamental knowledge about alternative energy sources.

Tenzing & Gombu Rock: Located on Lebong Cart Road, Tenzing and Gombu Rocks stand facing each other at about 20 minutes drive from Darjeeling. The massive Tenzing Rock is named after Tenzing Norgay, the man who climbed the Everest first time along with Edmund Hillary in 1953.

Gombu Rock is named after Nawang Gombu, Tenzing's nephew who climbed the Everest twice for the first time in the history, in 1963 and in 1965.

Tiger Hill: The Tiger Hill is located about 11 km from Darjeeling, at an altitude of 2555 meters. The dawn view of Kanchenjunga and other eastern peaks of the Himalayas is excellent.

Neora National Park: Neora National Park, spread over an expanse of about 88 square km, is located in a woody forest area near Lava in the majestic foothills of the Himalayan Ranges in Kalimpong.

It was established in 1986 and is maintained by the forest department. Bhutan and the lush green forests of Sikkim border this National Park.

Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is claimed to be the only zoo in the world to breed Tibetan wolf in captivity.

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Skiing ticket comes with a sweet bonus DENVER: A budget ski resort in western Colorado came up with an eye-popping offer - a $700 lift ticket, the most expensive in the nation. Only this lift ticket comes with a sweet bonus: a pair of handcrafted skis made from Colorado wood.

Gimmicky? Sure. But Sunlight Mountain Resort says that in an era of increasing ski-industry consolidation, where a handful of companies control more and more winter sport terrain, scrappy independent resorts need all the help they can get to compete with amenityladen megaresorts.

From baking fresh doughnuts for skiers to displaying local art to

play up a sense of community, smaller, independent resorts say they have to rely on personality.

``It's the difference between Budweiser or a craft brew,'' said Troy Hawks, Sunlight's head of marketing and sales.

The ski industry used to be dominated by independent resorts, where downhill and crosscountry skiers would drive to a local mountain, maybe get a fireside cup of hot chocolate in a

DARJEELING

dhist monk, who also founded Nipponzan-Myo-ho-ji Buddhist Order. Designed by M. Ohka, the Peace Pagoda is claimed to be the tallest free structure in the town with a height of 28.5 m and a diameter of 23 m. It houses four avatars of the Buddha. Located close to the Pagoda are a Buddhist Temple and a traditional Japanese style monastery, which tourists can also visit.

Well known for tea industry & eco-tourism Cont’d from page 52

It is also the first South Asian zoo to breed Snow Leopard and Siberian Tiger. Rare red pandas are also seen here.

Snow Leopard Breeding Centre: The Snow Leopard Breeding Center is devoted to the snow leopard breeding program. Snow leopard is an endangered species.

Aloobari Gompa: Aloobari Gomba, which is situated three kilometers away from the center of Darjeeling, is a monastery where you can find Tibetan and Sikkimese monks. These monks sell religious accessories and other handicrafts. If you are interested in shopping as well as sightseeing, then Aloobari Gomba is a place of choice.

Bhutia Busty Gompa: Bhutia Busty Gompa is a monastery situated just under a kilometer out of Darjeeling. Kanchenjunga provides a spectacular backdrop to this monastery. It is a branch of the Nygpama sect's Phontag Monastery in Sikkim. It was transferred to Darjeeling in 1879.

Catholic Church: The Catholic Church, the largest church in Kalimpong area, is a revered religious attraction. The church, built during British rule in 1890, was constructed under the supervision of architect Hardy from Edinburgh.

This church was open to public for offering prayers in November 1891 after a religious consecration.

The architecture is in western

style.

Ghoom Monastery: Called Yiga Choeling Monastery, the monastery in Ghoom is located around 7 km from Darjeeling. The original monastery was built during the early twentieth century.

ISKCON Temple: An august reflection of serenity and sublime beauty, ISCKON temple in Siliguri

Best time to visit Darjeeling Darjeeling has a moderate climate with all five distinct seasons in a year. The best season to visit the place is from September to June. Take woolen clothes in winters.

lodge, then drive home. A ski area with an on-mountain hotel was a rarity; one with nighttime entertainment and white-tablecloth dining would be a true destination.

Starting in the 1980s, larger conglomerate companies started consolidating ski areas, investing heavily to make their mountains 12month vacation destinations.

They made room for upstart snowboarders. Added spas and skiing lessons for kids. Built condominiums and larger hotels. Allowed guests to one buy one pass good at several mountain resorts.

Consolidation expanded in spurts. The trend hit a new milestone last October when Vail Resorts of Broomfield spent $1.05 billion to buy Canada's Whistler Blackcomb Holdings Inc., North America's biggest and busiest ski resort. The purchase brought Vail Resorts to a dozen ski areas, all of them destination resorts that court overnight guests. ``We're seeing homogenization in the industry, no question,'' said David Norden, CEO of Taos Ski Valley Inc., an independently owned resort in New Mexico.

Mega ski operators like Vail can afford to advertise worldwide, and they grab headlines when they grow. But an industry association

mountains, Berry said.

But he conceded that consolidation isn't going away, making it imperative that independent resorts keep locals coming back. ``The better they do, the more likely they are to be a target for acquisition. It's one of those ironic realities,'' Berry said.

Owners of the independent mountains say they're trying to buck the consolidation trend by competing with personality.

At Taos, resort owners are investing in local art to play up the region's acclaim for southwestern art, especially pottery and textiles. ``As with any business, it's important to try to come up with, `What is your differentiating factor?''' Norden said.

One Colorado resort uses its lack of amenities as an attraction.

Silverton Mountain in southwest Colorado has no terrain for beginners or intermediates. No ski school. No hotel. Just one lift and 1,800 acres of uncrowded terrain for expert skiers. No frills. Just thrills. ``We set ourselves apart by limiting the daily skier visits and making the experience the opposite of others,'' said Silverton Mountain co-founder Jen Brill, who happily boasts that her mountain sees as

How to reach

By Train: The nearest railhead is New Jalpaiguri. This is well con-

A skier enjoys a run on the opening day of ski season at Arapahoe Basin Ski Area in Colorado as A-Basin becomes the first ski resort in North America to open for the season. The ski industry skews big, with megaresorts adding terrain and attractions. Smaller resorts can't compete with the big guys, so they tout authenticity.

attracts thousands of people. International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), also known as Hare Krishna Movement, manages the temple with dedication and reverence.

Japanese Peace Pagoda: Set on the slopes of Jalapahar hill in Darjeeling, Japanese Peace Pagoda is a symbol of peace and spiritually. It is one of the creations of Nichidatsu Fuji, a Japanese Bud-

nected to most of the major cities in India. The town of Darjeeling is approachable from Siliguri, nearly 80 km away, by Darjeeling Himalayan Railway also known as Toy Train.

By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra near Siliguri, which is at a distance of 93 km from Darjeeling.

By Bus: Regular bus services connect Darjeeling with many cities in and around Darjeeling.

that tracks skier visits says that smaller, independent resorts are holding their own. ``There's the visible national destination resorts, but there's a whole other aspect of the industry made up of resorts that are closer to home, that they're easily accessible, affordable, and in many cases specialize in teaching people how to ski,'' said Michael Berry, president of the National Ski Areas Association, based in Lakewood.

Just a fraction of the nations' 463 ski areas are owned by multimountain conglomerates, and no one counts how many of the 57 million or so annual skier visits are made to independently owned

many skiers in a season as the megaresort Breckenridge Ski Resort sees in a busy winter weekend.

Another independent resort touts its family-friendly vibe, taking pride in its lack of alcohol sales and abundance of ski lessons.

Brad Moretz, co-owner in Appalachian Ski Mtn. in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, said independent resorts simply need to play up their differences to keep a hold in a consolidating industry. ``There are lots of people that look for a more personal experience,'' Moretz said. ``The conglomerates do a good job, but there is absolutely no replacement for pride of ownership.'' -AP

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„

Realty Tidbits

HDFC Realty launches app for brokers MUMBAI: Real estate advisory solutions provider HDFC Realty has said it has launched a mobile application PropPartner exclusively for brokers.

The app gives brokers access to projects exclusively being marketed by HDFC Realty, featured projects with special schemes by developers and projects with HDFCs special payment plan schemes, the company said in a statement issued here.

Also, all the listed projects would be approved by HDFC for home loans, it said.

"The objective is to give brokers larger options to property in their micro markets as well as other cities and locations. The in-app sharing functionality lets the agents share the project details with their customers directly, using any of the sharing apps available on their phone," HDFC Ltd Managing Director Renu Sud Karnad said.

This app is LIVE on both, Android and iOS platforms.

"In the current market environment, the PropPartner app would provide the real estate agents an opportunity to market projects in other locations and to help them in their additional top line growth," he added. -PTI

„ Arkansas public housing looks for help LITTLE ROCK, Ark.: Several Arkansas public housing agencies are hoping a federal program can save the state's old deteriorating housing projects by helping them use private money to make up for a lack of funding from Congress.

The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports the Rental Assistance Demonstration program is the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Department's latest attempt to support the country's public housing sector while grappling with decades of underfunding from Congress.

The program, formed in 2012, aims to help housing agencies leverage private funds to help overcome the lack of federal funding.

Three thousand public housing units in 11 Arkansas cities are on the department's list for the program.

North Little Rock Housing Authority executive director Belinda Snow says transferring several of the agency's buildings to private ownership through the federal program appears to be the only solution. -AP

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Quirky New Jersey beach house sold MARGATE, N.J.: A quirky New Jersey beach house that has drawn curiosity seekers for decades has been sold. It's not clear whether that means the new owners will change the back of the house, which faces the beach and has a deck with a roof and sidewalls but is otherwise open. For years people in Margate have stopped and peered inside, and some use it as a landmark when they're giving directions. The two-story house, built in 1967, was sold this fall for more than $4 million. Joel Levinson, the home's architect, said it's the only beach house he's ever designed. -AP

Builders pin hopes on rate cuts for revival in 2017 NEW DELHI: Property market was the economy's underbelly this year and demonetization towards the fag end only made it more isolated. But things might change in 2017 as builders are pinning their hopes on lower interest rate and transparency for the sector to come back to life.

The realty space remained weak even this year as housing sales fell on low demand and adverse impact of junking of old cash, but developers expect recovery from the second half of 2017.

The multi-year slowdown, however, did not deter investment as cash-starved developers raised Rs 48,300 crore in 2016 from private equity (PE) investors to fund their projects, up 53 per cent from last year's, according to property consultant Cushman & Wakefield.

"Housing sales were better this year before note ban. But sales have slowed in the last two months. We feel that 2017 will be a golden year for the developers in the primary market as they will benefit from the government's demonetization move and a likely fall in interest rates on home loans," realtors' apex body CREDAI President Getamber Anand told PTI. DLF's CEO Rajeev Talwar said:

"There has been a lot of cleansing in the real estate sector this year.

So, 2017 will be a good year for primary product suppliers of real estate."

He said housing prices would remain stable in the primary market, but decline in the secondary (resale) one.

post demonetization, dragging the overall numbers down for 2016.

According to property consultant JLL India, housing sales in primary market stood at 1.2 lakh units in the seven cities during JanuarySeptember 2016 as against 1.19 lakh in the year-ago period. Total units sold in 2015 were 1,57,800.

CREDAI President Getamber Anand

Housing sales did rise in the first three quarters of 2016 on positives like tax sops in the budget, new real estate regulatory law and easing of interest rate by about 1 per cent, but transactions dried up

"2016 overall was a watershed year for Indian real estate, with RERA (real estate regulation Act), demonetization and the Benami Properties Act impacting sentiment negatively. The momentum in 2016

housing sales was lower than 2015 and 2014.

Prices remained stable," JLL India Chairman and Country Head Anuj Puri told PTI. However, he exuded confidence in a market revival in 2017.

"In 2017, we will see consolidation within this industry, with financially disciplined developers having focus on buyers and delivery of projects doing well and the others falling by the wayside. In housing, we will see confidence coming back among buyers with implementation of RERA," he added.

Demonetization, coupled with the introduction of the real estate regulation Act, could create significant short-term uncertainty, Godrej Properties MD and CEO Pirojsha Godrej said, but added that same factors will lead to consolidation and improved governance in the sector, which in turn will drive consumer confidence.

"2017 will be a transition year where the realty sector starts the year with relatively soft demand, but ends the year very strongly as the benefits of lower interest rates, better affordability and far improved governance lead to a significant surge in demand," he said further. -PTI

States told to allot land to homeless NEW DELHI: In a unique initiative, the Centre has asked states to allot land to a female member of homeless families so that they can be provided with funds for construction of homes under a recently launched scheme.

Under the Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana (PMAY), the Centre is aiming to construct more than 2 crore houses by 2022 for families from lower income group or economically weaker sections, which will be supplemented with power, water and LPG connections.

Out of these 60 per cent houses will be constructed for the homeless and those living in

kachcha houses belonging to SC and ST communities, Minister of State for Rural Development Ram Kripal Yadav said.

He said government will di-

rectly transfer Rs 1,20,000 into the account of beneficiaries in the plain areas. Besides this, they will also be provided Rs 12,000 for toilets construction and 90 days of work

under MNREGA which is equivalent to Rs 18,000.

Similarly in hilly areas, beneficiaries will get Rs 1,30,000 for construction purposes along with Rs 12,000 toilets construction and Rs 18,000 from MNREGA. "The priority is being given to homeless families and therefore states have been asked to allot land in the name of a female member of such family so that they can be provided funds for construction of homes," Rural Development Secretary Amarjeet Sinha said.

Sinha further said already some states have allotted land to homeless families and few others are in the process.

To ensure transparency and checking diversion of funds, there will be geotagging of all houses which will be built under this scheme, Sinha said, adding that an online platform has also been created where all the required details of beneficiaries along with their pictures is being uploaded.

In November this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had launched flagship housing scheme Pradhan Mantri Gramin Awas Yojna'. It is designed entirely for the rural masses, the ambitious scheme aims to provide affordable houses to all those living below the poverty line by the year 2022. -PTI

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Sebi issues new set of disclosure Realty regulator to norms for REITs impact housing finance NEW DELHI: Putting in place a few more disclosure norms for real estate investment trusts (REITs), Sebi has asked such entities to inform stock exchanges about actual utilization of the funds raised.

REITs will also have to provide justifications for the fees paid to investment and project managers as also share details about the methodology for computation, Sebi said in a circular.

The Trusts will have to make financial disclosures on half-yearly and annual basis as well as unit holding pattern. Furthermore, they would have to ensure that adequate steps are taken for expeditious redressal of investor complaints.

Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), last week, issued disclosure norms that need to be followed by REITs while filing the offer documents and a set of new norms have been added in the latest round.

The regulator, earlier this month, had issued detailed norms for public issuance of REITs, including allocation of units to in-

stitutional investors. To facilitate growth of REITs, Sebi last month notified revised and easier regulations for raising capital through this instrument.

Sebi had notified the REIT

Regulations in 2014, allowing setting up of and listing of such trusts, which are very popular in some advanced markets. However, not a single trust has been set up in India as of now, as investors await further measures, including tax breaks, to make these instruments more attractive.

REITs will have to submit a statement "indicating deviations, if any, in the use of proceeds from

the objects stated in the offer document/placement memorandum or explanatory statement to the notice for general meeting, as applicable," to exchange on a quarterly basis for any private issue, public issue, rights issue and preferential issue.

"Every credit rating, wherever required to be obtained by an REIT...shall be reviewed once a year, by the registered credit rating agency," Sebi said. REIT will have to furnish an explanation for the variation in its annual report. They will have to disclose its unit holding pattern for each class of unit holder to bourses. It will have to maintain proper books of account, records and documents relating to a period of not less than eight financial years immediately preceding a financial year, or where the REIT had been in existence for a period of less than eight years, in respect of all the preceding years. Sebi said that REIT would have to make disclosure about net distributable cash flows, as well as of all the underlying holding companies and special purpose vehicle (SPVs). -PTI

Housing.com develops digital platform with Tata NEW DELHI: Realty portal Housing.com has tied up with real estate major Tata Housing to create an exclusive digital marketing platform for the sale of existing inventories and launch of new projects.

Housing.com and Tata Housing have formed a partnership as part of which the realty portal would "offer a full stack solution by creating an exclusive integrated pan-India brand platform showcasing their current inventory (premium homes as well as Tata Value Homes) as well as exclusive launch of their upcoming projects."

As part of this partnership, Housing.com will implement a wide gamut of solutions that include interactive tools like Virtual Reality, creation of exclusive content through Housing.com design studio, leveraging Housing News, IREF platforms as well as Housing.com events and brand platform.

The partnership would also entail working jointly with Tata Housing to develop new and innovative solutions to manage the home buyer experience across online and offline channels,

Housing.com said in a statement.

The new segment on Housing.com would offer users complete access to an inventory of properties across all major cities in India on a single integrated platform across premium and affordable segments.

As part of this agreement, Tata Housing would also be deploying some of these solutions and technologies on their digital platforms.

Tata Housing brand would get

scale is unprecedented in the country and we are certain that it will change the way we buy homes," said Mani Rangarajan, Housing.com Chief Business Officer.

"The way we buy homes has evolved over the last few years due to the advent of technology and the emergence of digital platform. This partnership will not only give us a much wider reach, but will also enhance the overall home

exclusive access to users of Housing.com that will augment their reach which would be further enhanced through its call centre and channel partners including broker ecosystem.

"Tata Housing is one of India's most trusted names in the real estate sector and has been on the forefront of leveraging technology in the space...The deployment of a solution of this nature and

buying experience for our customers," said Tarun Mehrotra, Head Sales and Marketing at Tata Housing.

Founded in 2012, Housing.com is India's leading online real estate platform with 1.7 million verified homes listed to date. It has raised over USD 100 million in capital from leading investors, including Softbank and Nexus Ventures. PTI

MUMBAI: Curbing of speculative activities in the realty sector after the establishment of a regulator is expected to adversely impact the housing finance companies, a Reserve Bank report said here.

"The push to regulate the realty sector is likely to have an impact on housing finance segments as it may help curb speculative activities significantly," its Financial Stability Report said.

It, however, was quick to add that there are no concerns around "systemic risk" from this sector, despite a slight increase in the stressed advances in the retail housing sector in the recent quarters.

The Real Estate Regulatory Bill (RERA) was passed by both Houses of Parliament earlier this year and framing of draft rules for the same is underway at present.

Multiple reports following the November 8 demonetization have also said that there may be adverse impact on the realty sector.

The resilient retail segment, especially the high-value housing loans, has seen a lot of focus by the lenders following a general

slowdown in credit demand by corporates due to both cheaper alternatives in the money markets and sluggish economic growth.

The FSR said the all-India house price index posted an annual increase of 7.3 per cent as at the end of the first quarter of 201617, after moderating for four consecutive quarters.

Among other asset classes, the FSR said the NSE's Nifty indice outperformed both the MSCI World and Emerging Market indices from the beginning of this financial year till November 2016.

The bond market experienced a six-month long rally till October 2016, when the foreign investors started selling to reduce exposure to emerging market assets amid rising probability of an interest rate increase by the US Fed in December.

Stating that despite the increasing significance of the domestic institutional investors, the foreign portfolio investors continue to play an important role in the swings of equity, bond and currency markets and net positions of FPIs in Indian markets turned negative in 2015-16. -PTI

US pending home sales fell in November WASHINGTON: Fewer Americans signed contracts to buy homes in November. The decrease likely reflects the drag caused by rising mortgage rates and the shallow inventory of properties on the market.

The National Association of Realtors said that its seasonally adjusted pending home sales index fell 2.5 percent to 107.3, the lowest reading since the start of 2016. Pending sales declined in the Midwest, South and West, while improving in the Northeast.

The slowdown marks a reversal for the housing market, as sales growth has been solid for the past year. Completed sales of existing homes in November climbed their highest pace in nearly a decade, reaching a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 5.61 million, the Realtors said last week. But the pending sales contracts suggest that demand may be weakening now that the costs of purchasing a home have increased.

Pending sales contracts are a barometer of future purchases. A sale is typically completed a month or two after a contract is signed.

Mortgage rates began to surge after Donald Trump's presidential

win in November, making it more expensive to purchase a home.

Average 30-year fixed rate mortgages were 4.3 percent last week, up from a 52-week low of 3.4 percent, according to mortgage buyer Freddie Mac. Rising rates could make existing homeowners less likely to put their property on the market, since it would require them to finance the purchase of a new home at higher interest rates.

Inventories are already squeezed. Fewer than 1.9 million homes were on the market in November, a 9 percent decrease from a year earlier. The shortage of listings has pushed up prices over the past year.

But higher mortgage rates might leave buyers reluctant to pay a premium. If rates go up to 5 percent within the next year, nearly half of the real estate agents surveyed by the brokerage Redfin say their customers would begin searching for cheaper homes. ``Many of my clients - both buyers and sellers - have expressed concern and hesitation about increasing mortgage rates,'' said Arto Poladian, a Redfin agent in Los Angeles. -AP

In Brief Good response to passport rules changes NEW DELHI: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has said she has received positive feedback on the changes made in the passport rule under which norms for various categories of applicants were simplified.

Swaraj had sought response from people after the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) an-

nounced new passport rules, making a host of changes for various categories of applicants including orphaned children, sadhus, single mothers and government employees. "#PassportRules came into effect on 26 December 2016. I am happy with the positive response received from all quarters," she tweeted.

The MEA had said the changes in rules were brought in to ensure that citizens get their passports in a timely, transparent and reliable manner. -PTI

„ Lawmakers oppose plan for immigrants' shelter ROYAL, Ark.: Three members of Arkansas' congressional delegation are opposing a proposal to convert an abandoned facility near Hot Springs as a shelter for unaccompanied immigrant children.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services visited the former Ouachita Job Corps Center in Royal earlier this month to assess whether it can be used as a secure facility to temporarily house unaccompanied minors age 17 or younger. The Dec. 19 tour prompted opposition from Arkansas U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman, whose district includes Garland County, and U.S. Sens. John Boozman and Tom Cotton.

Agency spokesman Toby Merkt tells the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette that the government is still determining whether the site is ``suitable'' to serve as a shelter for children in the future. Merkt did not provide a timeline for the decision. -AP

Immigration

GOP dominance highest in Wisconsin

58 India Post

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January 6, 2017

Details on page 60

Anti-refugee sentiment from election spills over to states HELENA, Mont.: The push to restrict refugee resettlements and immigration in the U.S. that figured so prominently in Donald Trump's election is now headed to states that are preparing to convene their legislative sessions early next year, immigration advocates said.

In Montana, which took in just nine refugee families from January to early December, about a dozen bill requests related to refugees, immigration and terrorism have been filed ahead of next month's session. The measures include requiring resettlement agencies to carry insurance that would defray the cost of prosecuting refugees who commit violent crimes and allowing towns and cities to request a moratorium on resettlements in their communities.

Refugee rights advocates say those measures are a sign of what is to come as the anti-refugee rhetoric that featured prominently in the presidential election spills over to statehouses and local

governments. ``It's pretty widely known that this is going to be a hard year for those of us who are seeking to protect the rights of refugees and immigrants,'' said S.K. Rossi, ad-

who are in the nation illegally and halting the resettlement of refugees to strengthen the federal program that vets them.

Some down-ticket conservative candidates took Trump's cue

Dee and John Gibney, right, sit holding anti-refugee signs and watch a small group of counter protesters at far left during a rally in Missoula

vocacy and policy director for the ACLU of Montana.

The president-elect campaigned on building a border wall with Mexico to stop illegal immigration, deporting immigrants

and integrated the anti-refugee platform into their campaigns.

Montana Rep. Ryan Zinke, for example, spoke multiple times about the possibility of child terrorists slipping into the U.S.

Empowered by the issue's prominence, anti-immigrant groups have state and local governments in their sights as targets to push restrictive measures in addition to whatever changes may happen at the federal level, said Michele McKenzie, deputy director of the Minneapolis organization The Advocates for Human Rights.

That would lead to further manipulation of the deeply visceral fear of newcomers to the U.S. that was exposed during the election campaigns, McKenzie said. ``It absolutely does not end with the presidential election,'' McKenzie said. ``It's a national strategy by a small but organized group of anti-immigration advocates and anti-refugee advocates.''

It's unclear if Trump will make good on his pledges.

But his election appears to be enough for an Indiana legislative panel led by state Sen. Mike Delph, which didn't recommend any legislation after it spent eight months reviewing illegal immigration.

Cont'd on Page 60

Burmese refugees in eye of storm in J-K JAMMU: Having fled persecution and sectarian violence in Myanmar, Rohingya Muslims, who have been living in the only Muslim majority state in India for many years, are in the eye of a political storm over their settlement in Jammu and Kashmir.

Political parties in Jammu consider them a security threat and bat for their deportation, suspecting them to be part of a design to change the demography of Hindu majority Jammu. Kashmir-based mainstream parties, particularly NC, also want Rohingya Muslims to be thrown out of the state.

A refugee from Myanmar, Mohammed Rafiqi, 44, referring to the statements of various leaders and political parties in the state, said, "We came here in 2009. Jammu is a second home to

us now. But people should not make this an issue. We want to live in peace."

"We have suffered a lot. Do not involve us in a controversy," said Rafiqi, who has five children and works as a laborer to earn a liveli-

in," he said.

The refugees are now feeling threatened in the current situation.

Another Rohingya refugee, 46year-old Shah Alam said, "We have come here to earn a livelihood and live in peace. We feel threat-

Zahid Hussain and his family were the first Rohingya Muslims who made Jammu their second home. "We came here to earn and live in peace. There is no other aim for us here as we are not citizens� hood.

"No assistance is given to us.

We are not citizens but Jammu is much better than our country.

Here, no one has troubled us so far. We are alive, getting two square meals and have a shanty to live

ened when it is made an issue. I work at a shop and my wife and eldest daughter work as servants.

We live in the shanty on payment.

Some NGOs help us."

For Rohingya Muslims, the choice of settling in Jammu and

Kashmir was natural due to the Muslim character of the state.

Zahid Hussain and his family were the first Rohingya Muslims who made Jammu their second home.

"We came here to earn and live in peace. There is no other aim for us here as we are not citizens and are only refugees," he said.

The state government had said last year, "1219 Rohingyas (Burmese) families comprising 5107 members are staying in the State. Out of them 4921 members are holding UNHCR cards and 186 are without UNHCR cards."

As per the state Home Ministry, one NGO and members of Jamat-e-Islamia distribute clothes, religious books, cash and goods among these families from time to time.

Cont'd on Page 61

Immigration Post

January 6, 2017

India Post 59

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Farooq opposes domicile Singapore teen critic for Pak refugees arrested in US JAMMU: After the separatists, National Conference leader and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah has said the move to grant domicile certificates to West Pakistan Refugees is "unacceptable" and his party

tutional status and character," he told reporters here.

Farooq said there was a clear effort to exploit the West Pakistan Refugee issue to further a traditional agenda of weakening the state's special status and eroding

Farooq Abdullah

would oppose it.

"The idea of issuing domicile certificates to West Pakistan Refugees is unacceptable and National Conference won't be a mute spectator to such extra-constitutional misadventures that aims at circumventing the state's special consti-

the State Subject Law. He said the governments "excuse" that certain certificates and documents were being issued to West Pakistan Refugees as proofs of identification were "absurd justifications".

"West Pakistan Refugees have

already been given Adhaar cards and before that other proofs of identity that enable them to apply for Central government and other jobs.

"Why the present government suddenly found the need to issue another form of an identity proof is incomprehensible," said Farooq, a former Union Minister.

He was commenting on the issue which has already become controversial with separatists slamming it and vowing to oppose it tooth and nail.

"National Conference will do everything necessary to ensure such machinations to erode the states special status are defeated," Farooq said.

"These belated sympathizers of the West Pakistan Refugees have never done anything to help them in the pursuit of their day-to-day challenges and are exploiting this issue now only to serve their own political interests," he added.

"While we have always empathized with the refugees and will continue to do so, there is no denying the fact that they are not and cannot become the state subjects of Jammu and Kashmir. Any efforts by the state government to the contrary will be unconstitutional and illegal," he said. -PTI

Indians among illegal workers held in UK LONDON: Nearly 100 people, including some Indians and Pakistanis, working illegally across the UKs nail salons have been arrested, authorities said here.

The crackdown led by the UK's Immigration Enforcement unit as part of Operation Magnify, targeting UK businesses most suspected of employing illegal workers, involved the arrest of 97 people, a majority of them Vietnamese nationals, but also included immigrants from India and Pakistan as well as Mongolia, Ghana, China and Nigeria.

Those who are potential victims of human trafficking will be offered support, while those who have no right to be in the UK will be removed, the UK Home Office said.

UK Immigration officers visited the nail salons, also known as nail bars, in Edinburgh, London and Cardiff between November 27 and December 3.

They have also sent warnings to 68 businesses that they will pay

20,000 pounds per illegal worker if they cannot prove that they carried out appropriate right-to-work document checks.

"This operation sends a strong message to those employers who

Those who are potential victims of human trafficking will be offered support, while those who have no right to be in the UK will be removed, he UK Home Office said. ruthlessly seek to exploit vulnerable people and willfully abuse our immigration laws.

"Modern slavery is a barbaric crime which destroys the lives of

some of the most vulnerable in our society," said UK immigration minister Robert Goodwill.

He added: "This government has taken world-leading action to tackle it by introducing the Modern Slavery Act, giving law enforcement agencies the tools they need and increasing support and protection for victims.

"At the same time, we have also introduced strong measures through the Immigration Act to tackle illegal working, including making it easier to prosecute employers who repeatedly break the rules and creating the power to temporarily close businesses that do not comply with the law."

Operation Magnify is an initiative aimed at tackling exploitative employers who provide low-paid jobs to illegal migrants.

It has focused on "at risk" industries such as construction, care, cleaning, catering, taxi and car wash industries during 2016, with further activity in similar sectors planned for 2017. -PTI

CHICAGO: A teenage blogger from Singapore whose supporters say is seeking asylum is in custody after being detained at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport, U.S. immigration officials said.

Amos Yee, 18, was detained Dec. 16 and remains in custody ``pending federal immigration court proceedings,'' U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement spokeswoman Gail Montenegro said in a written statement.

Separately, Marilu Cabrera with

he served in July last year on the same charges.

He was also due to be called up for mandatory military service.

His U.S. lawyer, Sandra Grossman, told the South China Morning Post that Yee was likely detained because he entered the country on a tourist visa despite an intention to apply for asylum.

She said Yee would have to undergo a ``credible fear interview'' by an asylum official who would assess if he faces a credible fear of persecution or torture back home. She said the process usually takes a few days, but the holiday season could delay it. He would then appear before an immigration judge, but that could take years because of backlogs in the immigration system.

Yee, who won a local filmmaking prize at age 13, ruffled feathers in Singapore with a video blog laced with expletives as the citySingapore teen blogger Amos Yee state was mourning U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Lee's death in March last year.

Services, which handles some Such open criticism and lamasylum requests, said the agency pooning of leaders is rarely seen ``cannot confirm or deny'' details in Singapore, where laws are of any asylum case. strictly enforced. The government The Human Rights Watch of the multiethnic state says Yee deputy director for Asia, Phil crossed the red line on religion Robertson, called on the U.S. to when he mocked Christians and recognize Yee's asylum claim, say- Muslims and the law had to be ing he has been consistently ha- enforced on him to protect racial rassed by the Singapore govern- and religious harmony. ment for publicly expressing his Robertson said Yee has faced views on politics and religion and intensive government surveilseverely criticizing the city-state's lance and monitoring of his public leaders, including late Prime Min- and online comments. ister Lee Kuan Yew. ``Amos Yee is the sort of clasYee was imprisoned for six sic political dissident that the U.N. weeks in September on charges of Refugee Convention was dehurting religious feelings of Chris- signed to protect, and Human tians and Muslims after repeatedly Rights Watch hopes the U.S. will breaching bail conditions follow- recognize his asylum claim,'' he ing a four-week prison sentence said in a statement. -AP

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Immigration Post

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January 6, 2017

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GOP dominance highest in Wisconsin MADISON, Wis.: For the first time in nearly half a century, Republicans in 2017 will control the Wisconsin Legislature, the governor's office and the presidency in a GOP supersizing that could speed the state's conservative transformation of the last few years.

Wisconsin legislative leaders and Gov. Scott Walker are practically giddy at the prospect of working closely with president-elect Donald Trump, House Speaker Paul Ryan, of Janesville, and Trump chief of staff Reince Priebus, who used to run the state Republican Party.

It's the first time since Richard Nixon was president and Warren Knowles was governor, in 1970, that Republicans have controlled the executive and legislative branches in Wisconsin at the same time a fellow Republican has been president. Trump's road to the White House was paved with his victory in Wisconsin, the first for a Republican presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan in 1984.

Conservatives also have a 5-2 majority on the Wisconsin Supreme Court, giving the GOP a friendly venue for whatever legal challenges may be brought against their policies. ``This is the fantasy conserva-

tives have had for generations and now is their moment,'' said University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee political scientist Mordecai Lee, a former Democratic state representative who joined the Assembly in 1976, shortly before Democrats took a similarly commanding position.

board and more efforts to reshape the university,'' Lee said.

Walker and Republican leaders are poised to work closely with Trump, Ryan and Republicans nationally - including newly reelected Sen. Ron Johnson - on a series of priorities designed to strengthen state government's

obstacles to drug-testing food stamp recipients and loosening clean air requirements. ``We look forward to partnering with you to change the course of the federal and state relationship,'' Walker wrote to Trump.

Walker, Ryan and Trump's incoming administration have also talked about giving states more leeway with how they spend federal money on massive programs like Medicaid, transportation and education by delivering the money through block grants rather than earmarked for specific programs or projects.

A weakened Wisconsin Democratic Party, which returns to the Legislature with their lowest numbers since 1957 in the Assembly and 1971 in the Senate, are trying to chart a course The GOP’s Wisconsin brain trust: Republican Senate Majority Leader Scott L. Fitzgerald (left) with Gov. Scott Walker and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos have with no real ability to stop changed Wisconsin politics. what Walker and Republicans want to do.

Lee expected Republicans to power. ``I think the Republicans are take advantage.

Walker in December sent going to overreach,'' said Demo``I think we'll see more efforts Trump a letter requesting his help cratic Senate Minority Leader Jen to restrict labor unions in the pri- with a number of conservative pri- Shilling. ``They are going to make vate sector, more efforts to do what orities that he may or may not be mistakes.'' the business sector wants and able to quickly address, like givShilling said Democrats, who environmentalists don't, more ef- ing the state more authority over have just 13 seats out of 33 in the forts to cut regulations across the refugee resettlement, removing Senate, will focus on holding Re-

Anti-refugee sentiment from election spills over to states Cont'd from Page 58

Delph said after the election that the U.S. government's actions may make immigration less of a problem for the states.

Conservative lawmakers in other states such as Montana aren't waiting to find out, and are instead looking at measures to give towns and cities a larger voice in the federal resettlement process. ``We need to get serious,'' said Nancy Ballance, a Republican state representative from Ravalli County.

Ballance said refugees are a ``gigantic issue'' in her southwestern Montana county, just south of the liberal college city of Missoula. ``People expect to see some legislation brought,'' she said.

Missoula has taken in all of the state's refugees this year and has been approved to accept another 150 through September. That makes leaders in rural surrounding areas nervous that people will settle in their towns, where housing and job opportunities are lim-

ited. ``If Missoula wants to have their soft-landing program, that's fine,'' said Bob Keenan, a Republican state senator from Bigfork, a town north of Missoula on Flathead Lake. ``Those communities may not be as willing to expend

``I hope people are still open to talking to us and getting accurate information,'' Poole said. ``Our doors are definitely open for conversation.'' their social service dollars for a soft landing.''

Soft Landing Missoula and the International Rescue Committee have been the main organizations working with the federal and state governments to resettle the refu-

gees, who come from Congo, Iraq and Eritrea.

Mary Poole, Soft Landing Missoula's director, said much of the legislation being proposed in Montana is based on misinformation. Some measures - such as requiring surveys of communities' capacity to take refugees - already are part of the federal process, she said. ``I hope people are still open to talking to us and getting accurate information,'' Poole said. ``Our doors are definitely open for conversation.''

Other state-level bills conflict with federal refugee laws and will lead to lawsuits, Rossi said.

Just the act of introducing these measures sustains the anti-refugee fear and xenophobia that grew during the election, the ACLU lobbyist said. ``Filing this and making it a public conversation automatically undermines the refugee process,'' Rossi said. ``They can't legally undermine the process, but they can socially undermine the process.'' -AP

publicans accountable and try to keep them working on issues affecting the middle class. That includes infrastructure, income security, health care, the University of Wisconsin and public schools, she said.

Walker and Republican legislative leaders have the votes to do whatever they want, but they're already showing signs of internal strife.

Faced with a $1 billion shortfall in the Department of Transportation budget, Walker has ruled out any gas tax or vehicle registration fee increases without a corresponding tax cut elsewhere. But Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and other Assembly Republicans argue everything, including tolling and tax and fee increases, should be considered.

Plugging that shortfall, while debating the next two-year state budget Walker will introduce in February, will drive legislative debate for the year. Walker says his priority is workforce development, but Republican lawmakers have already signaled they want to push other ideas, like breaking up the state Department of Natural Resources, barring transgender students from using bathrooms for the sex they identify with and restricting early voting times. -AP

Indian youth murdered in New Zealand NEW DELHI: A 26-year-old youth from Sirsa in Haryana was stabbed to death allegedly by a girl in New Zealand recently and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has stepped in to help his family bring back home his mortal remains.

Swaraj directed the Indian High Commission in New Zealand to help the family of deceased Hardeep Singh after they reached out to her on Twitter.

"Deol family - Rania (Sirsa) : I hv seen news report and given instructions to our High Commissioner in New Zealand," the External Affairs Minister tweeted.

According to Hardeep's grandfather Baldev Singh Deol, he had gone to New Zealand on a study visa to pursue a course in hotel management.

According to reports in New Zealand media, Hardeep suffered serious injuries during an assault on Christmas at Cashmere house.

He was taken to Christchurch Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Local police said a 22-year-old

woman has been arrested and charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, adding the charge was likely to be replaced with a murder charge.

They said the inquiry has been upgraded to a homicide investiga-

A 22-year-old woman has been arrested and charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm tion.

The Minister, who is recuperating after undergoing a kidney transplant on December 10, is known for her prompt response to Indians who are in distress abroad, many of whom approach her through Twitter for help. -PTI

Immigration Post

January 6, 2017

India Post 61

www.indiapost.com

Mexican immigrant pushes to succeed in education GRAND ISLAND, Neb.: As a 20-year-old in Mexico City, even in her most implausible dream, Adriana Arroyo-Herrera couldn't envision her future journey.

She was at a crossroads. She wasn't earning a lot of money as a teacher and had two children to support. She had spent a brief time in Nebraska working in factory jobs but couldn't speak any English. ``When I was in high school in Mexico, I took a language,'' Adriana recalled. ``The language I took was French.''

That wouldn't help her much when she moved to Grand Island in 1991. Her first job at Swift & Co. didn't require any English because her co-workers were mostly Latino, too.

But Adriana, now 49, knew she had to learn the language. Encouraged by her cousin, Hope (Soto) DeLeon, she began taking English as a second language classes in 1992 in what are now the Old Walnut Apartments. ``I used to go to ESL classes from 9 to 12, from 1 to 3 and from 7 to 9 - every day,'' she said. ``It was so horrible not knowing what people were talking about. I

wanted to learn.''

So she learned - and then learned some more.

The Grand Island Independent reports this past May, Adriana earned her master's degree in counseling from Doane University.

That same weekend, she received an Outstanding Alumni Award from Central Community College in Grand Island. And just last

health therapists in Grand Island. ``I used to think, `Oh my gosh, why am I doing this?''' Adriana said. ``But as soon as I got through school, it was so good to be able to share, to be able to help people. ``It is a privilege to be who I am because God is using me his own way, to touch people's lives,'' she added.

She remembered a conversa-

``Someone once asked me, `Do you miss Mexico?' and I do,'' Adriana said. ``But when I'm in Mexico, I miss Nebraska more.''

Adriana and her husband, Keith Stoltenberg, have three children month, she was named one of five Distinguished Alumni by the Nebraska Community College Association.

Amidst all that, Adriana - who's the clinical supervisor and a drug and alcohol counselor at Friendship House, a 20-bed, adult male halfway house - opened her private counseling practice in October at 325 W. Fourth St. She is one of four or five bilingual mental

tion with a nurse while volunteering at the Grand Island Clinic. ``She said I would never get to go to college,'' Adriana recalled, because she was an immigrant with limited English skills. ``I wanted to prove her wrong. I wish I could remember her name, because I would have sent her invitations to every graduation I've been a part of.''

Besides her recent master's de-

Burmese refugees in eye of storm in J-K Cont'd from Page 58

"There are no reports of their radicalization. However, their children are receiving education in six madrasas in Bathindi, Sujwaan and Narwal," the ministry had said.

Migrant Maulana Shafiq, 37, runs a madarasa for Rohingya children in Narwal Bala where a sizable number of these stateless people live.

A senior police officer said Rohingya Muslims are not living illegally here and they have work permits. They started coming to Jammu over six to seven years ago and their number has increased.

"They are mostly doing odd jobs and are ragpickers and even beg to eke out a living," he said.

However, political parties and trade organizations have termed them as security threat and called for their deportation.

The Vishwa Hindu Parishad said Rohingya refugees pose a threat to the security of people in the region and should be "thrown out" of the state.

State VHP President Leela Karan Sharma said, "We oppose their settlement in Jammu. The

state government should throw these foreigners out of the state.

They should not be allowed to set up clusters on government or private land. It's a risk to the security of people and the army."

BJP also termed them a security threat. "There are no records

It accused the PDP government of adopting "double standards" when it came to having a Sainik Colony and a separate Kashmiri Pandit township regarding them and their settlement in a sensitive border state is a great threat to national security as these people can be easily used by anti-national elements," said BJP Nowshera MLA Ravinder Raina.

Jammu traders' body has alleged that the government wants

to change the demographic nature of this city by allowing Rohingya Muslim refugees to "settle" here in violation of Article 370.

It accused the PDP government of adopting "double standards" when it came to having a Sainik Colony and a separate Kashmiri Pandit township in the Valley but different for settling Rohingya Muslims in Jammu.

"While the construction of Sainik Colony for the retired and serving security personnel from the state and a colony for Kashmiri Pandit migrants have not seen the light of the day because of threats from anti-nationals, the government is allowing the settlement of non-state subjects and foreign nationals in Jammu," Chamber of Commerce and Industry Jammu (CCIJ) Chief Rakesh Gupta said.

National Conference (NC) has also demanded their deportation from Jammu.

"The foreigners who have settled here are to be dealt with under foreigners act. The central government should take measures and deport them," NC Provincial President Devender Singh Rana said. -PTI

gree, those would include an associate of applied sciences degree in counseling at CCC and a bachelor's degree in behavioral science from Bellevue University.

Those came after she earned her GED at CCC and held jobs at Swift, Gibbon Packing and Overhead Door, the latter often requiring 10hour work days during her seven years there. ``It took me forever to get my associate's,'' said Adriana, who became a U.S. citizen in 2007. ``To me, getting my associate's was the hardest one because I knew so little English. ``I took a class about addiction, and it really intrigued me. It's become a passion to learn how addiction works.''

Adriana credits much of her success to people who inspired her educational journey - longtime friend Yolanda Nuncio, former Hope Harbor Executive Director Aaron Ross, Doane instructor Michelle Smith and CCC human services teacher Joyce Meinecke. ``She came from Mexico as an immigrant not knowing English and now can write and speak at a master's degree level,'' Meinecke said. ``Her intelligence showed

from the beginning. She's willing to learn and face challenges. She's overcome some amazing things.'' ``She has a very long and determined story,'' said Nuncio, who helps immigrants earn their citizenship. ``She has worked very hard to achieve the goals she continuously sets for herself.''

Adriana is the second youngest of 10 children. Eight still reside in Mexico City; sister Ana ArroyoHerrera has joined her in Grand Island. Adriana and Ana last visited their family in Mexico City including their mother, 90-year-old Elvira Herrera - in September. ``For the first time in 18 years, all my brothers and sisters were there together,'' she said. ``Someone once asked me, `Do you miss Mexico?' and I do,'' Adriana said. ``But when I'm in Mexico, I miss Nebraska more.''

Adriana and her husband, Keith Stoltenberg, have three children Bryton, 22, and twins Daniel and Adrienne, both 20.

She hasn't ruled out furthering her education even more. Perhaps a doctorate? ``Now it's a maybe,'' she said. ``I'm not saying I will, but it's a maybe.'' -AP

India eases visa process for Bangladeshis DHAKA: In a bid to ease the procurement of Indian tourist visas for Bangladeshis, India will now allow those with confirmed travel tickets to submit their visa applications directly without prior appointments.

"As part of ongoing efforts to streamline, liberalize and ease the process of securing Indian visas,

of submission of the visa application form," it said.

The Indian Visa Application Centre in Mirpur will receive walkin tourist visa applications from confirmed travelers and senior citizens from January 1.

Those who already have appointment dates can continue to submit their tourist visa applica-

the High Commission of India will allow all Bangladesh travelers with confirmed air, train or bus tickets to submit their tourist visa applications without e-token or prior appointment dates from January 1, 2017," the Indian High Commission here said in a press release.

"The date of journey should be after 7 days but within one month

tions in centers at Gulshan, Uttara, Motijheel, Mymensingh, Barisal, Khulna, Jessore, Rangpur, Rajshahi, Chittagong and Sylhet.

The mission also said that its pilot project started in October for allowing walk-in visa application facility for women travelers and their immediate family members has been "very successful". -PTI

62

Stars Speak

India Post

January 6, 2017

www.indiapost.com

BY JATIN (JAY) PATEL

2017 for India

2017 for USA

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

US President-elect Donald Trump

T

he Indian government is following vigorously the policies to remove corruption, eliminate black money, cleanliness, employment opportunities for the poor by making them skilled and involving them in the banking process. One major step in this direction has been the present Demonetization, which is causing some hardship to citizens.

It is too early to say whether the targeted goals can be achieved. Astrologically India is not going through a good planetary period.

India's chart has the following planets that are good Sun, Moon, Mercury and Saturn. The bad planets are Venus, Jupiter, Mars, Rahu and Ketu.

India starts the year in Moon/Mars where Moon is good and Mars is unfavorable. Mars is 100 percent bad and is placed

PM should be careful with his speech and obtain security. People of India should be careful of people trying to take advantage or cheat you. Many will face sudden setbacks in the house of status, wealth and it rules foreign land, losses, and expenses. While for foreign relations it may bring good results, this is expected to create problems in educational facilities, domestic harmony

U

sing systems approach astrology, blessing the nation with good standing and and problems for the younger generation. let's look at the planets. We have progress.

At the same transit, Saturn enters a bad 12 houses and 12 zodiac signs house where Mars has ruined it causing setIncoming President Trump will have and 9 planets, which govern vari- strong ties to highly placed friends in varibacks to the economy which brings obstructions and problems for the policies created ous aspects of the life of a nation. ous countries and good relationships with There are 2 sets of them. Expect changes in Central bank inby the Prime Minister. planets one set is ben- dustry, agriculture, fisheries, mining and The setback creates an efic and the other one is minerals, education, and health services. unfortunate situation malefic and they are defor wealthy people.

This is due to Sun/Moon period. From termined by the rising Feb 3, 2017 we enter Sun/Mars which will There will be a drop in zodiac sign. Planets that help the nation bring in policies relating to value of real estate, and are benefic for USA are intellectual capital gains. This makes the also chaos, and fear.

Sun, the Moon, Mars, nation fortunate with good quality living. It Moon/Rahu starts Mercury and Venus. The helps the nation progress well due to good Feb 13, 2017. Rahu and malefic planets are Sat- governance.

Mars will bump heads urn, Jupiter and shadand this can lead to riDue to the transit of Saturn going to a owy planets Rahu and bad house starting on Jan 26, 2017 expect ots and unrest from the Ketu. Rahu sometimes higher fiscal deficit and conflicts, such as people of India. This pegives good results which losses and wasteful expenses. The remedy riod makes the nation is likely in the case of for this is welfare schemes for the poor and undisciplined and unUSA. When USA was needy working class. able to achieve greater formed the planets were success. Eventually, it From June 12, 2017 to end of the year Jatin (jay) Patel plotted in various 2017 we are in the Sun/Rahu period where will hurt the image of houses and that is called the main period is good and subperiod is India globally. Rahu is a shadowy planet and is placed in the first the natal chart. Events are triggered when bad. This can raise the status of the counhouse creating many deceptive practices, planets are moving and when periods (main/ try and continue good relationships. Which such as corruption, and cheating etc. So, subperiods) are in play. Planets are dynamic. achieves good wealth and maintains happithis period creates a lot of uncertainty for They are moving and at times due to their ness. movement they can create good or bad India.

At times due to Ketu it can bring the inThe Prime Minister should be careful events. cidence of obstructions, policy paralysis and Let's see where the planets will be in the sudden setback to economy. The President with his speech and obtain security. The remedies for India will be done by me. People year 2017 for the of India should be careful of people trying country USA. to take advantage or cheat you. Many will From Jan 2017 From June 12, 2017 to end of the year 2017 face sudden setbacks and obstructions due USA will be in we are in the Sun/Rahu period where the to combinations of Mars, Saturn and Rahu. Sun/Moon pe-The writer is Systems Approach Astrolo- riod which are main period is good and subperiod is bad. good planets. This can raise the status of the country and ger Feb 3, 2017 to June 11, 2017, continue good relationships. Which achieves they will be in good wealth and maintains happiness Sun/Mars period which are also good planets. From June 12, 2017 to should look after health with regular physiend of year it will be in Sun/Rahu period cals. The metals that will be affected with where main period is good and subperiod price are copper, gold, iron, and crude oil. of Rahu may give good monetary and for- The President will follow the new policies eign policies. with zeal, so that the results are felt by people What does this mean? The Sun and early.

Moon are royal planets. They will start the -The writer is Systems Approach New Year with good status and reputation; Astrologer

January 6, 2017

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Perspective

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January 6, 2017

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Basic income: A sellout of the American Dream

basic income here right now," says Roy Bahat, who heads Bloomberg Beta, a Bloomberg-backed venture capital firm in San Francisco. That chatter got louder after Y Combinator's announcement this year that it will fund and run a basic-income experiment in a so-far-unnamed U.S. community.

(The company has also said that a small pilot-not the main experiment-will take place in Oakland, California.)

For the Silicon Valley crowd, the prime

but we probably won't be there for 30 to 50 years," says Erik Brynjolfsson, who researches the digital economy at MIT's Sloan School of Management.

Proponents say a basic income is a way to liberate those who have struggled to find acceptable work: currently 7.4 million people are unemployed in the United States, another six million want full-time work but can only find part-time jobs, millions more have given up looking, and perhaps tens of mil-

motivation appears to be a concern that automation has been displacing jobs, and that increasingly sophisticated artificial-intelligence applications could accelerate the trend. One proponent is Jim Pugh, a data scientist and founder of ShareProgress, a technology company supporting nonprofits and social-impact organizations. "With selfdriving cars on the streets here [in Silicon Valley] becoming a reality, there is growing concern about what an economy with widespread automation would look like," he says.

What's not to like about free money?

Especially in the form of a poverty-relieving, quality-of-life-boosting grand scheme that gets a measure of broad-spectrum political support and commands enthusiastic attention from the most celebrated innovation community in the United States?

Well, there's the fact that a universal basic income could add as much as $2 trillion in annual expenses to the U.S. budget. Then there's the question of whether such a program might disconnect large swaths of our population from the positive aspects of working for a living-a potentially toxic side effect. And finally, there's little convincing evidence that large-scale technological unemployment is actually happening or will

lions have settled for jobs with low wages, skimpy benefits, or poor working conditions. But it can also be argued that the idea is a way of buying these people off, making it easier to avoid developing the education and training programs that would actually help alleviate income inequality and reverse wage stagnation. Could it just be a way to give up on providing the wide access to decent jobs that has long been considered an essential element of a healthy society?

Or, to put it more bluntly: at a time when the tech economy is generating huge amounts of wealth, is Silicon Valley just attempting to appease those left behind?

DAVID H. FREEDMAN

Schemes for giving everyone a guaranteed income are gaining momentum in Silicon Valley and throughout Western Europe. It's a great idea, until you look closely.

M

att Krisiloff is in a small, glasswalled conference room off the lobby of Y Combinator's of fice in San Francisco's South of Market neighborhood, shouting distance from some of the country's wealthiest startups, many of which Y Combinator has nurtured and helped fund. Krisiloff, who manages the operations of the tech incubator's program for very early-stage companies, is explaining why it is committed to investing an amount said to be in the tens of millions of dollars in a venture that is guaranteed never to make a penny.

It's the simplest business model conceivable: hand thousands of dollars over to individuals in return for nothing, no strings

attached. Krisiloff insists he and his Y Combinator colleagues can't wait to get started giving away the money. "This could be really transformative," he says. "It may help change how humans, society, and technology all operate together in the future."

The project is an experiment in what's known as a "basic income"-or, when the money is given to entire populations, as a "universal basic income." At its core, it's a means for a government to alleviate poverty, replacing the myriad bureaucracybound safety-net policies in industrialized countries that struggle, with mixed results, to get money into the hands of those who most need it.

In the view of proponents, that money could also benefit people who aren't poor but aren't affluent either. They'd gain access to higher education, an escape route from oppressive jobs and relationships, greater opportunity to invest in their children's well-being and education, and time to spend on artistic or other mostly nonpaying endeavors. "If people had that money, they'd be able to choose not to do

the most notoriously low-paying jobs," says Natalie Foster, a fellow at the Institute for the Future and New America California.

"No one would have to be a workaholic only out of fear that they'd have nothing to fall back on if they stopped." Wages, economic equality, and happiness would all climb, in this view.

Finland is studying a plan to give some 100,000 citizens nearly $1,000 a month as an experiment, and four cities in the Netherlands are about to start trial programs. The Canadian province of Ontario is preparing to run a trial, too, and a national test is under consideration. France's parliament is discussing the topic, with some encouragement from the country's finance minister.

Meanwhile, Switzerland has come closest to instituting a national basic income. In June it held a referendum on giving its residents about $2,500 a month. It failed; only 23 percent of voters were in favor.

Silicon Valley trying to appease those left behind?

Progressives generally like such schemes, as long as they don't leave the poor and jobless with less money than they get under existing safety-net programs.

Many conservatives and libertarians are fans, too, thanks in part to the idea that a basic income would shrink government bureaucracy. (The Swiss proposal, however, drew opposition from many conservatives, in part because it was intended to be added on top of existing programs.)

In the United States, the basic-income concept is gaining renewed interest largely because a number of leaders in the technology industry are talking it up, especially in Silicon Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area.

"There's a lot of prominent chatter about

Demogrant Calls for a basic income date back at least to the early 16th century, when the philosopher Thomas More, objecting to England's policy of executing thieves, suggested reducing poverty by giving a little money to all, regardless of employment. But the idea didn't get much traction until the end of World War I, when the British mathematician and philosopher Bertrand Russell and the "social credit" movement won it some public support in both the U.K. and Canada.

In the 1930s, the British Labour Party

A universal basic income could add as much as $2 trillion in annual expenses to the U.S. budget. Then there's the question of whether such a program might disconnect large swaths of our population from the positive aspects of working for a living-a potentially toxic side effect. happen in the immediate future.

Advances are changing the types of tasks and skills in demand, displacing many workers from jobs that have become obsolete. But the massive, automation-fueled job displacement cited as the prime justification for a basic income won't actually reach us for decades, assuming it does come. "The idea of a basic income is a good one in a world where robots do most of the work,

grabbed the baton, calling its basic-income plan a "social dividend."

What would it cost?

In the United States of that era, the New Deal focused on providing jobs through public works programs, so there was little interest in simply handing over money to the population.

Cont’ d on page 65

January 6, 2017

Perspective

India Post 65

www.indiapost.com Cont’ d from page 64

But the libertarian economist Milton Friedman revived interest in the early 1960s by calling for a "negative income tax" that would replace the much more complicated safety net of federal antipoverty programs and give the poor more control over their own finances.

Martin Luther King Jr. was a supporter, too. In 1968 more than a thousand economists signed a petition for a basic-income scheme. President Richard Nixon obliged by trying to push through a "Family Assistance Plan" that was in most ways a basic income.

Supported by a majority of the public and endorsed by most newspapers, Nixon's plan sailed through the House of Representatives.

It died, however, in the Senate, where conservatives balked at the cost and liberals wanted a higher payout and no work requirement. The 1972 Democratic presidential candidate, George McGovern, then got into the act, briefly including in his platform a $1,000 "demogrant" to all citizens. But the safety-net-shredding Reagan era killed all talk of a basic income in the U.S. The current revival in this country can be traced to the fear of some in the tech community that digital technologies are destroying jobs. One important early booster was ShareProgress's Pugh, who became interested in basic-income schemes three years ago after stumbling across an account of European experiments with the approach. He started writing articles and organizing events to promote support for it in Silicon Valley and "got an unexpectedly

strong response," he says. Other articles and posts from the tech community started popping up, and when Y Combinator announced its experiment, support in that population crossed a threshold.

One reason the idea resonates is that many Americans are struggling economically. About one in seven people lives below the poverty line, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. For many more, other financial pressures loom. By all accounts, middle-class jobs that don't require college degrees or advanced training are becoming harder to find, leaving many people who could once have held a good job in lowerpaying work with less security. Meanwhile, the top 0.1 percent of Americans now account for more than 20 percent of the country's wealth.

It's hard to live in Silicon Valley without

sensing the growing inequality. Chuck Darrah, a San Jose State University anthropologist who specializes in the ethnography of the tech industry, is a longtime Mountain View resident, and he has seen the value of his home quadruple to $2.3 million since 1998. In a walk around the town, he can point out other houses whose values are similarly staggering. Gentrification has forced the less affluent into exile, sending them far not only from their former homes and schools but also from the region's stronger job markets. "Every bit of research shows Silicon Valley splitting apart faster than the rest of the country," he says.

No wonder addressing poverty and job loss is on the minds of those in the technology crowd-when they aren't hard at work coming up with apps that will help make it possible to automate some task or access

enough to lift the vast majority of Americans above the poverty line, would be at least twice as expensive as current antipoverty benefits and overhead, adding between one and two trillion dollars to the federal budget. Halving the size of the check would go a long way toward solving that problem, but that would leave millions below the poverty line with fewer other programs to help.

Beyond the price, there are the worries about the social and cultural impact of taking so many people out of the workforce.

Luther Jackson, a program manager at Nova, a nonprofit workforce development agency in Silicon Valley's Sunnyvale, says he constantly sees evidence that job loss can mean much more than a missing paycheck, deeply depressing self-esteem and overall outlook.

A weekly meeting of job seekers can be-

revolution around the meaning of life."

Risky bet It may be true that new institutions and cultural attitudes are waiting in the wings to free us from our psycho-social attachment to work once a basic income frees us from our economic dependence on it. And it may be true that people who receive a basic income won't stop working but will simply use the money as a springboard to more rewarding work. These seem like risky bets, though.

In fact, an annual survey by the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the main way the unemployed tend to use the time freed up by not working is in watching TV and sleeping, not inventing new products or mastering new skills. In theory, real-life experiments can help settle the question of

Basic income: A sellout of the American Dream some service that once required an employee. Combine the concern about AIdriven job displacement with the tech community's drive to solve difficult problems through radically new approaches, and it's not surprising that the idea of a basic income has become Silicon Valley's latest obsession. Add to that a deep skepticism that government is capable of solving significant problems. And then throw in an awareness that the wealth tech workers are creating for themselves and the rest of the affluent minority is driving inequality to a point that could cause social unrest.

"Earlier in U.S. history we saw the rise of an enlightened capitalism that supported the growth of an empowered union movement, in part because some capitalists reasoned that it would reduce the chances of workers turning to socialism," says David Grusky, who runs Stanford's Center on Poverty and Inequality. "This is another moment in history in which there may be some diffuse anxieties about long-term unrest."

Sticker shock How much would it actually cost? The simple answer is: a lot. Economists are quick to point out that whatever savings might result from cutting out the existing safetynet bureaucracy, they are likely to be far outweighed by the cost of handing an annual check for, say, $10,000 to every adult in America. (Proposed amounts vary, of course, and are likely to be adjusted for those supporting children. It's generally assumed that existing health-care financing programs would remain in place, as would Social Security.) A rough calculation suggests that a $10,000 basic income,

come intensely emotional, he says: "It can be like a revival meeting. People are searching to understand who they are and how they fit in." Indeed, the idea of addressing joblessness with money instead of jobs is an ironic one for the tech crowd to embrace, notes San Jose State's Darrah. "They want this supposedly great solution for others, not themselves," he says. "They thrive on work."

But the concern that people will lose the incentive to work is overblown, say supporters of a basic income. Their claim goes this way: since the payout is likely to be far from generous, perhaps barely enough to live on, most people will probably choose to supplement their checks with work. The basic income will free them to pursue jobs with better pay, benefits, and conditions, or to look for more meaningful work-even if that work is lower-paying or nonpaying, such as staying home to take care of children or trying to develop an invention.

An ideal outcome, says Stanford's Grusky, would be for low-skilled workers to

what happens to people and communities when basic-income checks start coming in.

And there have been several such experiments. In practice, however, the results have tended to provide fodder for both sides.

Large studies that took place during the Nixon administration in major U.S. cities including Denver and Seattle, as well as a big experiment in Manitoba, Canada, produced results supporting various researchers' claims that people who receive a basic income work less or work more, and that families and communities were made more stable or less stable.

Critics say the studies ended before the true benefits or costs could be realized, that the checks were too small to produce clear results, that the people involved weren't a representative sample, or that the findings were misanalyzed. The experiments that will take place in other countries may not be any more conclusive: doubters are already dismissing them as less than relevant to conditions and attitudes in the United States. Even the Y Combinator experiment

It's not just that a basic income would be a risky bet based on murky data. The bigger objection is that it's an unnecessary bet. Existing safety-net programs could be expanded and tuned to eliminate poverty about as effectively but much less expensively, and they could continue to focus on providing jobs and the incentives to take them. invest the money from a basic-income program in training that equips them for higherskill jobs-and for parents to invest it in early education for their children. "Right now those opportunities are more available to the rich," says Grusky. "A basic income could allow the poor to buy those opportunities."

And even if that didn't happen and much of the population did take the money and drop out or get forced out of the workforce, the societal ties that today are rooted in work might be replaced by new ones, he says: "It could lead to a massive cultural

has been criticized as too limited in time and scope to offer a sense of the idea's larger economic and social impact.

It's not just that a basic income would be a risky bet based on murky data. The bigger objection is that it's an unnecessary bet. Existing safety-net programs could be expanded and tuned to eliminate poverty about as effectively but much less expensively, and they could continue to focus on providing jobs and the incentives to take them.

David H. Freedman's most recent book is Wrong: Why Experts Keep Failing Us. Courtesy MIT Technology Review

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Philosophy

January 6, 2017

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Page Sponsored by Sahanis YOGANANDA PARAMHANSA

H

is calm gaze was unfathomable. "Your heart's desire shall be fulfilled."

Sri Yukteswar seldom indulged in riddles; I was bewildered. He struck gently on my chest above the heart.

My body became immovably rooted; breath was drawn out of my lungs as if by some huge magnet. Soul and mind instantly lost their physical bondage, and streamed out like a fluid piercing light from my every pore. The flesh was as though dead, yet in my intense awareness I knew that never before had I been fully alive.

My sense of identity was no longer narrowly confined to a body, but embraced the circumambient atoms. People on distant streets seemed to be moving gently over my own remote periphery. The roots of plants and trees appeared through a dim transparency of the soil; I discerned the inward flow of their sap.

The whole vicinity lay bare before me. My ordinary frontal vision was now changed to a vast spherical sight, simultaneously all-perceptive. Through the back of my head I saw men strolling far down Rai Ghat Road, and noticed also a white cow who was leisurely approaching. When she reached the space in front of the open ashram gate, I observed her with my two physical eyes. As she passed by, behind the brick wall, I saw her KAHLIL GIBRAN

T

hen said a rich man, "Speak to us of Giving."

And he answered: You give but little when you give of your possessions.

It is when you give of yourself that you truly give.

For what are your possessions but things you keep and guard for fear you may need them tomorrow?

And tomorrow, what shall tomorrow bring to the overprudent dog burying bones in the trackless sand as he follows the pilgrims to the holy city?

And what is fear of need but need itself?

Is not dread of thirst when your well is full, thirst that is unquenchable?

There are those who give little of the much which they have - and they give it for recognition and their hidden desire makes their gifts unwholesome.

And there are those who have little and give it all.

These are the believers in life and the bounty of life, and their coffer is never empty.

There are those who give with joy, and that joy is their reward.

And there are those who give with pain, and that pain is their

clearly still.

All objects within my panoramic gaze trembled and vibrated like quick motion pictures. My body, Master's, the pillared courtyard, the furniture and floor, the trees and sunshine, occasionally became violently agitated, until all melted into a luminescent sea; even as sugar crystals, thrown into a glass of water, dissolve after being shaken. The unifying light alternated with materializations of form, the metamorphoses revealing the law of cause and effect in creation.

An oceanic joy broke upon calm endless shores of my soul. The Spirit of God, I realized, is exhaustless Bliss; His body is countless

Yogananda Paramhansa

bal outlines faded somewhat at the farthest edges; there I could see a mellow radiance, ever-undiminished. It was indescribably subtle; the planetary pictures were formed of a grosser light.

The divine dispersion of rays poured from an Eternal Source, blazing into galaxies, transfigured with ineffable auras. Again and again I saw the creative beams condense into constellations, then resolve into sheets of transparent flame. By rhythmic reversion, sextillion worlds passed into diaphanous luster; fire became firmament.

I cognized the center of the empyrean as a point of intuitive perception in my heart. Irradiat-

my lungs. With a disappointment almost unbearable, I realized that my infinite immensity was lost.

Once more I was limited to the humiliating cage of a body, not easily accommodative to the Spirit.

Like a prodigal child, I had run away from my macrocosmic home and imprisoned myself in a narrow microcosm.

My guru was standing motionless before me; I started to drop at his holy feet in gratitude for the experience in cosmic consciousness which I had long passionately sought. He held me upright, and spoke calmly, unpretentiously.

"You must not get overdrunk

Guru grants experience in cosmic consciousness My body became immovably rooted; breath was drawn out of my lungs as if by some huge magnet. Soul and mind instantly lost their physical bondage, and streamed out like a fluid piercing light from my every pore.

tissues of light. A swelling glory within me began to envelop towns, continents, the earth, solar and stellar systems, tenuous nebulae, and floating universes.

The entire cosmos, gently luminous, like a city seen afar at night, glimmered within the infinitude of my being. The sharply etched glo-

ing splendor issued from my nucleus to every part of the universal structure. Blissful amrita, the nectar of immortality, pulsed through me with a quicksilver like fluidity. The creative voice of God I heard resounding as Aum, the vibration of the Cosmic Motor.

Suddenly the breath returned to

with ecstasy. Much work yet remains for you in the world. Come; let us sweep the balcony floor; then we shall walk by the Ganges."

Excerpted from Chapter 14 of 'Autobiography of a Yogi.' The 124th birth anniversary of Yogananda Paramhansa will be celebrated on January 2.

baptism.

And there are those who give and know not pain in giving, nor do they seek joy, nor give with mindfulness of virtue; They give as in yonder valley the myrtle breathes its fragrance into space.

Though the hands of such as these God speaks, and from behind their eyes He smiles upon the earth.

It is well to give when asked, but it is better to give unasked,

season of giving may be yours and not your inheritors'.

You often say, "I would give, but only to the deserving."

The trees in your orchard say not so, nor the flocks in your pasture.

They give that they may live, for to withhold is to perish.

Surely he who is worthy to receive his days and his nights is worthy of all else from you.

And he who has deserved to

their worth naked and their pride unabashed?

See first that you yourself deserve to be a giver, and an instrument of giving.

For in truth it is life that gives unto life - while you, who deem yourself a giver, are but a witness.

And you receivers - and you are all receivers - assume no weight of gratitude, lest you lay a yoke upon yourself and upon him who gives.

Rather rise together with the

When you give of yourself that you truly give For in truth it is life that gives unto life - while you, who deem yourself a giver, are but a witness. And you receivers - and you are all receivers - assume no weight of gratitude through understanding; And to the open-handed the search for one who shall receive is joy greater than giving And is there aught you would withhold?

All you have shall some day be given; Therefore give now, that the

drink from the ocean of life deserves to fill his cup from your little stream.

And what desert greater shall there be than that which lies in the courage and the confidence, nay the charity, of receiving?

And who are you that men should rend their bosom and unveil their pride, that you may see

The greatest obstacle to enlightenment is getting past your delusion that you are not already enlightened.

-Ramana Maharshi

The question is not what I should do in the future to get it, but rather, what am I presently doing that prevents me from realizing it right now?

-Alan Watts

When a man sees the one in all things, he is above mere understanding.

-Meister Eckhart

Where can I find a man who has forgotten words?

He is the one I would like to talk to.

-Chuang Tzu

It is not so much that you are within the cosmos but that the cosmos is within you.

-Meher Baba

Everything is perfect in being what it is. It has nothing to do with good or bad.

Kahlil Gibran

giver on his gifts as on wings; For to be overmindful of your debt, is to doubt his generosity who has the free-hearted earth for mother, and God for father.

Excerpted from 'The Prophet'.

The 134th birth anniversary of Kahlil Gibran will be observed on January 6.

-Longchenpa

The game is not about becoming somebody. It is about becoming nobody.

-Ram Dass

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Ominous calm both good and bad for J&K

India Post

LT GEN (RETD) SYED ATA HASNAIN

A

fter the 2013 hanging of Afzal Guru, many had expected that the Valley would boil. Nothing much happened, leading people to inquire from Kashmiris as to why this was so. Friends from Kashmir often say that people from the Valley do not respond to events immediately, and that they nurse a grudge or a grouse and add layers of it to their psyche before allowing it to vent into action.

That is why unnatural silence is never good. The silence in the Valley at present can at best be called ominous. It is giving people a break from all the terrible negativity. There is a sizeable population that believes what has happened is wrong but its voice is drowned out by a noisy and clamorous set who wish to dictate the course.

The ominous silence is palpable. Terrorists attempted to break that with the recent ambush at Pampore. That is a tactical event for the Army to sort out by strengthening road security along the highway.

What should the State leadership and the Centre be doing at this time? Aside of congratulating themselves on the demonetization exercise and its supposed effect of stopping stone throwing, there is much that can be done in the winter that will have a positive impact in the summer. There is no need to allow the separatists the initiative to decide what they wish to do.

Firstly, Jammu can begin becoming the hub of the 'way forward' discussions. Not among Jammuites alone but between various stakeholders, such as a few Kashmiri students, traders, teachers, retired bureaucrats and policemen. Let the media in Kashmir begin reporting this even though it would tend to initially ignore it.

Secondly, if the Separatists do begin street turbulence again, the police forces had better have answers in the form of non-lethal weapons. The pellet gun that took away much credibility from our otherwise fairly controlled response in 2016 has been branded as the symbol of all oppression. In such internal asymmetric conflicts, symbolism becomes significant.

An injury by a pellet gun again will magnify the negative message manifold. Hence, if alternatives cannot be thought of,

then the tactics must be thought through, albeit there is no reason why universal methods of crowd control cannot be adapted

by India's police forces.

Institutions such as the National Police Academy or even the Central Reserve Police Force Academy, whose job it is to act as intellectual planks for doctrinal guidance for the police forces, must be deeply involved in the research on control of mob violence and employment of non lethal weapons.

The administration should be looking at ensuring societal stability. There are reports of enhanced vigilantism of the kind societies in the throes of radicals suffer. Within India's social tolerance, such a phenomenon cannot hold people and society to ransom. No administration can absolve itself of the responsibilities of stopping this.

Where are Kashmir's elected representatives? Are they with their people or spending time in Jammu? The political class has to get back to the grind of politics, and that begins from the grassroots and not from the Assembly House.

Specific areas that have witnessed voids of such activity for long must have their representatives visiting them along with the 'intezamiya' (local civil administration). The Army should only be too happy to create the environment and confidence for this.

Its role is not independent from the overall efforts needed to restore normalcy and prevent resurgence of a 2016 like situation again.

What should the Army be doing?

As one of the key stakeholders and stabilizers, the Army should be in overdrive in what it is really good at, i.e. in playing potential scenarios of the future.

It should also involve other stake holders and even Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti herself who is seen to be far more involved with Unified Command than most of her predecessors.

The Army and Corps Commanders are new and most of the division commanders are due for change. Winter is usually the time for conventional war games in Northern Command.

These can always be converted to comprehensive exercises to think the situations through and evolve ideas. The

involvement of other institutions such as the Army War College and the Doctrine Branch of Army Training Command must be increased. The degree of thinking the Army does on its current threats in the hybrid sphere is perhaps insufficient.

The Northern Command needs as much intellectual support because its command and staff functionaries are always short of time.

The quality of protection of the soft targets in the rear needs to improve manifold. One cannot be strong everywhere but there is nothing that intelligent deployment, back to basics and good response cannot overcome.

The Unified Command must think well ahead. If there is peace and quiet in the Valley once the Durbar returns in May 2017 all the traditional issues will get thrown up again. Among them the West Pakistan Refugees, the return of the Kashmiri Pandits, the restoration of the Kashmiri Pandit culture, and most importantly, the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).

After the spate of violence in 2016, it was presumed that demands for abrogation of AFSPA were no longer valid as the need for empowerment of the Army was a given.

However, even six months down the line if there is peace, demands against AFSPA will rise.

Everyone will get back to trying to understand what it is all about.

By that time the Army's hierarchies would have changed and institutional memory being what it is, much reinvention of the wheel would again be taking place. To avoid that, the hard work should be done now by teams of experienced officers.

One simple exercise on social media urging parents to get their children to school had phenomenal effect on turnout for examinations.

If just a few themes are selected jointly by the Unified Command to work through social media campaigns, it will boost our capability to fight in different dimensions. The Northern Command is gaining experience in this and the State Government must join hands with it to run more such campaigns.

The writer is Member, Governing Council, IPCS, & former GOC, 15 Corps, Srinagar

Success or failure?

C

ritics of demonetization are finding it difficult to maintain their campaign even as queues before banks shorten and the citizens take to digital payment mode with great zeal. Still the arguments in mainstream English media go like this: "If this demonetization measure fails" (and they hope it fails), "Modi's empire will come crashing down." Since they are saying, "If it fails" means they are admitting that so far it has succeeded. And then what they are consistently failing to notice is that demonetization is not a one-off move. It is followed up by dozens of steps which the critics have lampooned as changing orders every day.

In his address to the citizens on New Year eve, PM Modi announced incentives for farmers, the poor, small businessmen, women and the elderly, which are great moves to help the lower strata but which the English press has dismissed as sops. Along with these he warned the "dishonest" of tough action and said his "government will "protect the common man, help the honest and isolate the dishonest".

There have been an endless stream of reports in media that disgruntlement against 'notebandi' among the public is now reaching a crescendo. However the situation on the ground is vastly different and over two thirds of Indians in a survey are reported to have supported this measure by the BJP. Remember BJP doesn't generally enjoy support of two thirds of Indian people.

Writing in Times of India, novelist Manu Joseph says in his column under heading 'Why aam aadmi is not mad at NaMo despite DeMo: "There is evidence that the average Indian feels Modi is on to something. Or at least, for some reason, he is not angry with Modi. If the cash crunch continues for another month, the mood might change but as of now it does appear that Modi is going to be fine. The people standing in the queues suggest that."

Interestingly, the world is watching with great interest India's experiment with demonetization. Harinder Sidhu, Australia's High Commissioner to India, told Indian Express in an interview that following India's demonetization decision, there is talk in Australia about "demonetizing our highest denomination note".

She said, "I am watching with great fascination how it unfolds if it works, it will be a profound change for the Indian system. It's certainly the most radical policy I've ever seen put into effect. I'm very impressed with how the government has been grappling with it. They have responded to so much public feedback and constantly tried to incorporate responses along the way. I appreciate the effort along with all the complexities involved. Interestingly, this seems to have inspired a move on tackling black money - possibly even demonetization - in Australia. We've just announced a black money task force in Australia; there's been some conversation about demonetizing our highest denomination note. We are watching India closely to see if we can learn something from this process."

The very follow-up steps after demonetization that the media has been lampooning are being appreciated world over as "responding to public feedback."

There have been reports that even Pakistan is now considering demonetization of high value notes. But notice it requires courage and some confidence to take such a huge step the first time. There are many who are waiting to see the outcome of this move but they would be mistaken to just copy the Indian move and wait for success. A lot of surprise was involved in this daring step.

Columnist Ashok Malik writes in NDTV, "Those who have followed Modi's governance since his Gujarat days would know he believes in the power of the individual citizen to improve his or her conditions, with the state as a sympathetic enabler and not a spoonfeeding parent. This is different from the culture of giveaways and doles that remains the trademark of the Congress and motivates Rahul Gandhi's familiar calls for blanket loan write-offs."

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