IndiaPost_02-12-2010 by Ghanshyam Bisht

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Salil Shetty next Secy General of Amnesty Details on page 8

Two Indian Americans win Ellis honors Details on page 8

VOL 15, No. 805

February 12, 2010

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INDIA OFFERS SECY LEVEL TALKS TO PAK

NEW DELHI: Reflecting thaw in relations with Pakistan, India has proposed Foreign Secretary-level talks to discuss terrorism and any other issue that could lead to peace between the two neighbors. Sources said the offer of talks has been made to Pakistan and a reply is awaited. At the talks, the sources said, India intends to raise the

issue of terrorism and any other matter that could "contribute to creating atmosphere of peace and security" between the two countries. India will "enter into the discussions with an open and positive mind" and will raise all "relevant issues," they said.

Siraj Haqqani escapes US drone strike in Pak

Details on page 8

Community happy with Illinois results Details on page 10

IALI endorses Ami Bera for Congress

Details on page 11

UN climate chief backs Pachauri

Details on page 6

NJ Gov names Dr Alaigh to cabinet post

Details on page 8

Napolitano meets with South Asian community

Details on page 12

RARE HONOR: In a distinct privilege, Indiaís leading actors Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol were invited by the Nasdaq stock exchange to ring their opening bell on Feb 1, in New York City. The acting duo opened the market when they rang in the first trading day of February at 9.30 am. They were on a promotional tour in the US for their latest film My Name is Khan. (Details on page 26)

Youth join elite at grand R-Day celebrations

Mike Mullen for US move on Kashmir Details on page 7

CONTENTS Bollywood ---------------------- 24-25 Classifieds --------------------- 49-51

SUJATA SINGH

Community Post -------------- 10-21

India Post News Service

Date Book -------------------------- 52

INDIA POST SURVEY survey@indiapost.com This week’s question

Should India resume talks with Pakistan? Last week’s result

Is India showing more interest in NRIs? YES 57%

NO 43%

FREMONT: The FIA members hosted India's sixty first Republic Day at The Newark Pavilion, CA. on January 31.There were a large number of invitees and dignitaries from all walks of life. The pavilion was packed to capacity, with national pride and patriotism draped all over. The colorful event began with American national anthem followed by the Indian national anthem. Details on page 16

Edit Page --------------------------- 54 HealthScience Post --------- 22-23 Horoscope ------------------------- 40 Immigration Post ------------- 45-47 Life Style ----------------------- 26-33 Philosophy ------------------------- 53

FIA officials and city official of San Jose, Ash Kalra and City official Anu Natrajan presenting award to the Youngest Mayor of Campbell City, Evan Low

Publisherís Diary ------------------ 4 Real Estate ------------------------ 48 TechBiz Post ------------------- 42-44 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 34-37

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very once in a while there erupts a controversy in India over who the city of Mumbai belongs to. I used to find it amusing, but now it makes me so angry when I hear all those two-bit politicians of Maharashtra State claim the city belongs only to Marathis and threaten any prominent person or celebrity who counters that claim by saying the city belongs to all Indians. That such a debate should arise at all is ridiculous. It's like asking 'Who does New York belong to?' and New Yorkers of at least 180 different countries of origin will raise their hand. In this day of globalization, when hyphenated nationalities are becoming more a norm than exception, I find it frustrating to see that India still has such regressive politicians who, through sheer bully power and crass rowdism hold the city to ransom. But that is not entirely why I get angry. Do any of these people who claim to own Mumbai, ever get out on the streets to see what an irreparable mess the city has become? Millions of teeming people on the roads, snail-paced traffic, impossibly congested roads and highways, bridges and flyovers going nowhere, squalor-filled slums, inadequate public utilities, overflowing garbage dumps, ugly and distracting billboards, and a people who have lost all sense of civic mindedness have become the mark of the great city, hailed as the financial, cultural and glamour capital of the country, while every politician worth his speech has literally "used" the city to fill his own coffers. People like Mukesh Ambani, Sachin Tendulkar, Shah Rukh Khan who become the butts of the Shiv Sena's wrath for saying that Mumbai belongs to all Indians - what have they done for the city? People from all over the country, over the decades have only seen Mumbai as the city of opportunity and raked it for fulfilling their ambitions and gave little back to the city that made them rich. It's high time all those who claim to own Mumbai picked up the mop and began cleaning it up first.

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Cover Story: Talks offer Reflecting thaw in relations, India has proposed Foreign Secretary-level talks to Pakistan on terrorism.

Community: Illinois elections

Raja Krishnamoorthi, who sought Democratic nomination for the Illinois Comptroller position, lost to David Miller.

Terrible statistics Health statistics from northern India are "terrible", according to philanthropistbillionaire Bill Gates.

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India offers secy level talks to Pakistan NEW DELHI: Reflecting thaw in relations with Pakistan, India has proposed Foreign Secretarylevel talks to discuss terrorism and any other issue that could lead to peace between the two neighbors. Sources said the offer of talks has been made to Pakistan and a reply is awaited. At the talks, the sources said, India intends to raise the issue of terrorism and any other matter that could "contribute to creating atmosphere of peace and security" between the two countries. India will "enter into the discussions with an open and positive mind" and will raise all "relevant issues," they said. On the outcome of the proposed meeting, the sources said this should not be pre-judged. India had suspended the composite dialogue after Mumbai terror attacks and refused to restart the process before it could see any concrete action being taken by Pakistan in punishing those behind the carnage. The softening of India's stand came apparently after Pakistan produced evidence against arrested Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists, including its commander Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi in a court in connection with the Mumbai attacks.

The evidence was based on a series of dossiers provided to Pakistan by India in connection with the incident. External Affairs Minister S M Krishna had indicated about resumption of the talks when he said, "Doors for talks were never shut". Krishna had earlier said India

At the talks, the sources said, India intends to raise the issue of terrorism and any other matter that could ‘contribute to creating atmosphere of peace and security’ would be satisfied if Pakistan takes "a few steps" with regard to investigations into the 26/11 carnage. The offer for Foreign Secretary-level talks comes as Home Minister P Chidambaram prepares to travel to Pakistan on February 26 to attend the SAARC Interior Ministers' Conference, which will mark the first

high-level visit from India since the November 2008 attacks. During his visit, Chidambaram is likely to have a bilateral meeting with his Pakistani counterpart Rehman Malik and some other leaders. Krishna also indicated the possibility of Chidambaram holding bilateral meetings with his Pakistani counterpart Rehman Malik and other leaders on the sidelines of the third SAARC Interior Ministers' Conference. "Chidambaram will get a chance to have very useful exchanges with his counterparts and other leaders in Pakistan," he told reporters accompanying him on his visit to Kuwait. This will be the first visit by an Indian Minister to Pakistan since May 2008 when then External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee had gone there for Composite Dialogue. The visit also indicates a thaw in Indo-Pak relations, which has been going through a turbulent phase since the November 26, 2008 attacks in Mumbai with the evidence leading to the fact that these were conspired and hatched in Pakistan. Krishna said Chidambaram will have a chance to have "very useful exchanges" with his counterparts and other leaders in Pa-

kistan during the visit, Krishna said. The Dawn reported that the Pakistan Foreign Office appeared "to be unclear about what sort of engagement India desired." Chidambaram's upcoming visit to Islamabad to attend the SAARC meeting is expected to

While refusing to speculate on the name of the handler, the Home Minister said investigators had known for long time that there was a handler in 26/11 attack who could be an Indian be the "first step towards normalization of ties," it said. The delegation expected to be led by Chidambaram will be the highest official Indian team to visit Pakistan since the Mumbai attacks. Since then, leaders of the two sides have only met on the sidelines of several multilateral fora like the UN General Assembly.

Indian hand in Mumbai attack? Meanwhile, Home Minister P Chidambaram has said the ten Pakistani terrorists who attacked Mumbai on November 26, 2008 could have been guided by an Indian handler. "When we say he could be an Indian, he could be somebody who acquired Indian characteristics. He could have been infiltrated into India and lived here long enough to acquire an Indian accent, familiarity with Indian Hindi words or he could be somebody who exfiltrated from India to Pakistan and was adopted by the militants there," Chidambaram said. While refusing to speculate on the name of the handler, the Home Minister said investigators had known for long time that there was a handler in 26/11 attack who could be an Indian. "We know him by Abu Jindal that something we have known for many many months now... but he is not Abu Jindal. That is not his real name. We cannot put a finger who he is, unless we get a voice sample. And they won't give us voice sample. "There is a speculation that Abu Jindal could be A, Abu Jindal could be B....but how as a Home Minister I can speculate? I can't speculate," he told CNBC-TV18 news channel.-PTI

Secretary Napolitano meets with South Asian community leaders SRIREKHA N. CHAKRAVARTY India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano on Jan 28, met with leaders from Muslim, Sikh, South Asian and Arab communities-key partners in homeland security to discuss ways the DHS can increase engagement, dialogue and coordination, and enhance information sharing between DHS and faith- and community-based groups. "In times of crisis, leaders of faith-based communities and other grassroots organizations often play a critical role in the broad and timely dissemination of accurate information," said Secretary Napolitano. "Strengthening our partnerships with faith- and community-based groups will allow improved information sharing and better coordination in preparing for, assessing and responding to threats."

During the meeting, Secretary Napolitano and leaders in attendance examined existing information sharing capabilities such as the Secure Community Networka model for information sharing with faith- and community-based

‘In times of crisis, leaders of faith-based communities and other grassroots organizations often play a critical role in the broad and timely dissemination of accurate information,’ said Secretary Napolitano communities designed to quickly improve overall security awareness in a crisis situation-and discussed ways to expand and enhance current initiatives and part-

nerships. Leaders of the South Asian, Sikh, Muslim and Arab American community welcomed the commitments by the Secretary to promote meaningful, positive and authentic dialogue. Leaders from national and local organizations representing these communities expressed concern about DHS policies, such as racial and religious profiling at airports and the border, that have eroded the government's trust and credibility with the communities. The commitments Secretary Napolitano made to these community leaders include: * Community participation in an anti-violent extremism task force of the Homeland; * Security Advisory Council, which reports to the Secretary; * Regular, quarterly meetings with the Secretary; * Education and training for DHS leadership to promote understanding of the Muslim, Arab, Sikh and South Asian American

communities and their concerns; and * An honest and full discussion of legitimate grievances from members of these communities about DHS policies that are ineffective and have a deleterious,

Leaders of the South Asian, Sikh, Muslim and Arab American community welcomed the commitments by the Secretary to promote meaningful, positive and authentic dialogue humiliating impact on Muslim, Arab, Sikh and South Asian American communities. Community leaders believe that fulfilling these commitments

would be a step forward in establishing meaningful, open and authentic dialogue between DHS and the Muslim, Arab, Sikh and South Asian American communities. In addition, these leaders have called for changes to DHS policies that are ineffective and discriminate among travelers based on race, ethnicity or religion, including: * Rescinding a new Transportation Security Administration (TSA) directive targeting travelers from or through 13 Muslim nations, plus Cuba. * Revising a TSA directive on religious headwear, such as turbans and headscarves. * Setting limits on interrogations and searches by Customs and Border Protection agents that probe an American's faith, politics, finances or associations, as well as cell phones, laptops and electronic devices, without any evidence of wrongdoing.

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'US should encourage back channel diplomacy on Kashmir' WASHINGTON: Asserting that improved Indo-Pak relationship is key to success of the US war against terror in the Af-Pak region, top American military commander Admiral Mike Mullen has said the Obama Administration should encourage back channel talks between the two countries on Kashmir. "As part of our long-term regional approach, we should welcome all steps these important nations (India and Pakistan) take to regenerate their 'back channel' process on Kashmir," Mullen, Chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, said in a prepared testimony before the powerful Senate Armed Services Committee. Mullen, who made a joint appearance with US Defense Secretary Robert Gates before the committee, told US Senators that the border area between Pakistan and Afghanistan is the epicenter of global terrorism.

"This is where al-Qaeda plans terrorist attacks against the US and our partners and from where the Taliban leadership targets coalition troops in Afghanistan," he said.

Mullen, who made a joint appearance with US Defense Secretary Robert Gates before the committee, told US Senators that the border area between Pakistan and Afghanistan is the epicenter of global terrorism Pakistan's ongoing military operations against extremists in these areas are critical to preventing al-Qaeda and associated groups from gaining ground, Mullen noted.

"In Pakistan, the extremist threat, a fractious political system, economic weakness and longstanding tensions with India continue to threaten stability," Mullen said, adding the Obama Administration is working to rebuild its relationship with Pakistan and reestablish trust lost between the two countries. Observing that South Asian security tensions and political dynamics significantly impact US objectives in Afghanistan and Pakistan, Mullen said the longstanding "animosity and mistrust" between Pakistan and India complicates regional efforts. "Yet India and Pakistan must both be our partners for the long term. Bilateral military relationships are an essential component in a wide array of cooperative activities," he said. "We must recognize this and address it as part of our policy. While we acknowledge the sov-

Railways might name train on Komagata Maru India Post News Service

NEW DELHI: The Indian Ministry of Railways has offered to consider renaming of the Amritsar-Howrah Express as Komagata Maru Amritsar Howrah Express instead of 'NRI Amritsar-Howrah Express' as suggested by Vikram Bajwa of OFBJP in a letter to the Minister. In his reply to Bajwa's letter, Titus P. Koshy, Executive Director/PG to Minister of State for Railways E.Ahamed has asked for a detailed note on Komagata Maru so as to bring out the importance and relevance of this name to this particular train. Vikram Bajwa has since for-

The Komagata Maru ship

warded to the ministry the history of the Komagata Maru ship, narrated by Dr. Hugh Johnston of University of British Columbia. He has also requested that an early

decision be taken so that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh could be persuaded to flag off the train on April 13 this year, to the delight of NRIs all over the world.

Pak wants full resumption of CD ISLAMABAD: Seeking "result-oriented and sustained" talks with India, Pakistan has said it will accept no format of engagement other than the composite dialogue, which has been stalled since the 2008 Mumbai attacks. Pakistan will not be interested in "talks for the sake of talks," Foreign Office spokesman Abdul Basit told the Dawn newspaper. "We want result-oriented and sustained dialogue and no format of engagement other than composite dialogue will be acceptable to us," he said. Basit was responding to statements made by External Affairs Minister S M Krishna and other indications that India may take some steps to normalize bilateral

Reports that India wanted "measured contacts" instead of the full-fledged resumption of the composite dialogue were not well received by the Foreign Office ties, which have been under considerable strain since the Mumbai attacks.

However, the spokesman said the Pakistan Foreign Office will assess any Indian proposal and see if it can help revive the composite dialogue, whose four rounds since 2004 had led to practical steps by both countries to enhance cooperation on several issues and address outstanding matters. Reports that India wanted "measured contacts" instead of the full-fledged resumption of the composite dialogue were not well received by the Foreign Office, sources told PTI. India has linked the resumption of the peace process to Pakistan taking action against the perpetrators of the Mumbai attacks. -PTI

ereign right of India and Pakistan to pursue their own foreign policies, we must demonstrate our desire for continued and long-term partnership with each, and offer

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;India and Pakistan must both be our partners for the long term. Bilateral military relationships are an essential component in a wide array of cooperative activitiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; our help to improve confidence and understanding between them in a manner that builds long-term stability across the wider region of South Asia," Mullen said. Observing that threats to US

national security from al-Qaeda and affiliated movements based in Af-Pak remain real and persistent, he said: "We require a stable and reasonably secure Afghanistan and Pakistan - inhospitable to alQaeda's senior leadership, capable of self defense against internal extremist threats and contributors to regional stability." Responding to a question, Gates said there is a "deficit of trust" with Pakistan, which according to him is historical. "The Pakistanis will speak of three or four American betrayals, only the most recent of which are turning our backs on Afghanistan and them after the Soviets withdrew, and the other the implementation of the Pressler amendment (of the 1990s the forced a halt to most US aid due to evidence that Pakistan was developing nuclear weapons) and cutoff of militaryto-military relationships," he said. -PTI

Pak continuing support to Taliban and Haqqani group: US WASHINGTON: Pakistan is continuing support to the Taliban and the Haqqani network as part of its back up plan to secure their western border in case the US leaves Afghanistan, a top US intelligence official has said. "They've got a backup plan," Dennis C Blair, Director of the National Intelligence told a Congressional hearing saying that by continuing to support the Taliban and the Haqqani network, Pakistan is playing both ends against the middle. Though Islamabad has been saying that it has snapped its links with the Taliban, Blair's comments clearly reflect the US

view that Pakistan is maintaining ties and support to these groups. The US national intelligence chief said that Islamabad also continues to provide support to other Pakistan groups that were operating in Afghanistan. He said the safe havens that the insurgents have in Pakistan's tribal areas in Al-Qaeda's most important outside support. "Disrupting that safe haven won't be sufficient by itself to defeat the insurgency in Afghanistan, but disrupting that presence in Pakistan is a necessary condition for making overall progress in Afghanistan," he said. -PTI

India seeks 'right environment' for its students in Oz KUWAIT CITY: India has said it was concerned about the safety of its students in Australia and underlined the need to provide the "right kind of environment" to allow them to pursue studies there. Noting that Australian government has assured India that they were taking adequate steps to ensure safety of Indian students, External Affairs Minister S M Krishna said, "Government of India is closely monitoring the developments (in Australia)." "Between the Governments of Australia and India, we should be able to see that the right kind of environment will be available for students to pursue the purpose they have gone for with single-

minded contention," he told reporters here. Referring to the high-level meetings between the two countries, he said this is indicative of the fact that they are coming closer. "We also recognize that there is a large students' community present in Australia in various cities pursuing higher studies and skills and the Government of India is concerned about their safety," he said. Krishna noted that Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith had said that their federal government and two state governments of that country had formed a highlevel committee to address the concerns of Indian students.-PTI

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Salil Shetty next Secretary General of Amnesty International India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Amnesty International has appointed Salil Shetty as its next Secretary General. Shetty, an Indian national, has been the Director of the United Nation's Millennium Campaign for the past six years and the Chief Executive of international antipoverty NGO ActionAid before then. "We are thrilled that Salil will be joining us and leading Amnesty International as we renew our fight to end injustice - campaigning with those imprisoned because of their ideas, those on death row, those being tortured, and those who have their rights denied because they live in poverty," said Peter Pack, the chair of Amnesty's International Executive Committee (the organization's governing body). "As we approach our 50th anniversary, we have ambitious plans to expand our work, especially in the global south, and Salil has a solid track record in mobiliz-

Haqqani escaped heaviest US drone strikes in Pakistan NEW YORK: Top Afghan Taliban commander Sirajuddin Haqqani was the target of the heaviest US drone strikes in Pakistan's lawless region, but may just have escaped the assault, as American officials for the first time said that Hakimullah Mehsud was dead. A commander of the Haqqani group told CNN that "Siraj was in the area but had left moments before the strike." The TV network said the reported strike on Tuesday night were unusual for the relatively high number of missiles fired -- at least 19 -- and for the high death toll. The CNN quoting US counterterrorism officials said they believed that Pakistani Taliban chief Hakimullah is dead, in strongest signal Washington has said about his fate. At least eight drones took part in the coordinated attack hitting houses, cars and bunkers in multiple target raids in which 31 militants were killed including two top Pakistani Taliban commanders and six foreign militants. The missiles hit four villages of Daigan, Muhammad Khel, Pai Khel and Toor Narai all said to be strongholds of the Haqqani network. Sirajuddin Haqqani or Siraj is a senior Taliban and leader of the Haqqani network, founded by his

and targeting the Haqqani clan, whose fighters numbering over 12,000 dominate Khost, Paktya, Paktiar and other Pashtun dominated areas of eastern Afghanistan. The TV network said a US missile strike on the Haqqani compound in 2008 had killed large number of Haqqani members including wives and children. -PTI

ing people, civil society, governments and international organizations in the fight for people's rights and dignity. He's absolutely the right person to take Amnesty

Shetty, an Indian national, has been the Director of the United Nation's Millennium Campaign for the past six years and the Chief Executive of international anti-poverty NGO ActionAid before then International into the next stage of our work," added Pack. "I feel privileged to be given this amazing opportunity at a time

when the world needs human rights for all more than ever before," said Salil Shetty. Salil Shetty will start in June 2010. He succeeds Irene Khan who steps down after eight years as Amnesty International's Secretary General on 31st December 2009. Shetty had joined the UN Millennium Campaign in 2003, shortly after it was set up by then United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan. "I wish Salil great success in his new endeavor," said UNDP Administrator Helen Clark, "Under his leadership the UN Millennium Campaign has grown into a powerful global campaigning force supporting citizens in their efforts to hold their governments accountable for the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals." Shetty will remain at the helm of the Millennium Campaign until June 2010 as it continues to be a well-established and credible advocate for MDG achievement.

Two Indian Americans win Ellis honors India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Two Indian Americans have been nominated this year for the Ellis Island Medals of Honor, the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (NECO) announced. Rao Anumolu, President & CEO of ASR International Corp. and Suraj Bhatia, President of

Technology Consultants Service International Inc., along with 95 other outstanding individuals will be conferred the prestigious medal at the 24th annual ceremony on Ellis Island, on the evening of May 8. The ceremony will be followed by the annual Gala Awards Dinner in the historic Great Hall.

Blaming Pachauri for goof up senseless: Boer

Sirajuddin Haqqani

father Jalaluddin Haqqani, and is long time ally of al-Qaeda. The group operates on both side of Afghan Pakistan border and is well-known to US, CNN said. Haqqani has been parts of most of the attacks against US forces and NATO forces and has claimed he planned assassination attempt on Afghan President Hamid Karzai and assault on Serena Hotel in Kabul. The US intelligence believed he masterminded the bombings on the CIA base in Khost and on Indian Embassy in Kabul. For the first time the CNN said US drones had been monitoring

NEW DELHI: Embattled IPCC chief R K Pachauri has found support in UN's climate chief Yvo de Boer who said holding him responsible for the goof up in the world body's report on Himalayan glaciers would be "senseless". Equating Pachauri with a "tall tree which collects a lot of winds," Boer, the executive secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change said, "he (Pachauri) is a very respected international scientist and is leading the IPCC in a very dedicated way." The IPCC received the Nobel Peace prize not for its last report but all the work that has been done by the scientific community, Boer told reporters when asked if Pachauri should resign in the wake of controversy over report on Himalayan glaciers.

"I hope he does not (resign). I think that asking him to take responsibility for a single mistake which he has recognized by aban-

Yvo de Boer

doning it from the report in question would be senseless," Boer added. Praising Pachauri, Boer said "there is a saying, tall trees col-

lect a lot of wind....well Pachauri is tall tree". Pachauri, who is under attack from various quarters over the IPCC's 2007 report on Himalayan glaciers, has already ruled out his resignation saying that the mistake was "unfortunate" and he would go ahead to complete the Fifth IPCC Assessment Report. . Boer, however admitted that the mistake (that the Himalayan glaciers will melt by 2035) gave the skeptics an opportunity to question the science of climate change but pointed that there will always be the margins of uncertainty in science. "The scientific community has made clear that other criticisms (regarding Amazon forests and disappearing of ice from mountain peaks) have proved to be unfounded," the climate chief noted. -PTI

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Rahman strikes double gold at Grammys, Maldives not to allow soil for Amjad, Hussain lose out terror activities against India LOS ANGELES: Music maestro A R Rahman continued his winning spree by striking double gold at the 52nd Grammy Awards here but two other Indian hopefuls Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and Zakir Hussain lost out. Rahman, 44, registered an early win in both the categories he was nominated for, the 'Best Compilation Soundtrack for a Motion Picture' category and in the 'Best Motion Picture Song' for 'Jai Ho'. He shares the award with lyricist Gulzar and Tanvi Shah, who penned the Spanish lyrics of the international hit. Sarod maestro Amjad Ali, who was nominated in the Best Traditional World Music Album category for his album "Ancient Sounds", lost out to Douga Mansa by Mamadou Diabate. Tabla maestro Hussain, who had won a Grammy last year, was nominated in the Best Classical Crossover Album category for his album "The Melody of Rhythm", failed to register a win this year. He lost out to Yo-Yo Ma's "Songs Of Joy And Peace". But it was a golden moment for Rahman. His win was reminiscent of the victory at the Oscars last year where the 'Mozart of Madras'

Tia Carrere presents the Best Compilation Soundtrack Album For Motion Picture, Television Or Other Visual Media award to A R Rahman for Slumdog Millionaire during the Pre-Telecast award presentations at the 52nd Grammy Awards in Los Angeles

had bagged two Academy awards for his composition in 'Slumdog Millionaire' besides winning a Golden Globe and a BAFTA award. "This is insane, God is great again," an elated Rahman said while accepting the golden gramophones at the Staples Centre here.

The composer also thanked his friends and family members after his historical win. "Hey guys in India... We got two Grammys again and God bless you all," Rahman said. "Jai Ho" has been sung by Sukhvinder Singh, Mahalaxmi Iyer, Tanvi Shah, Vijay Prakash and Rahman himself.-PTI

NASA, ESA want to be part of Chandrayaan-II mission: ISRO BANGALORE: NASA and European Space Agency (ESA) want to be part of Chandrayaan-II, the next Indian mission to Moon, by sending their instruments, ISRO Chairman K Radhakrishnan said here. Replying to a query whether NASA and ESA have sent proposals to ISRO to be part of Chandrayaan-II, expected in 2012 or 2013, by sending their instruments, Radhakrishnan told reporters, "They are all there actually (they have sent proposals)." NASA and ESA are among "several candidates" who have evinced interest in Chandrayaan2, he said. "There is discussion going on that...And there is a team which is discussing with various scientists...Scientific Advisory Board. You look at all the requirements and what experiments we need to do and what mass is available and what they would require and from Chandrayaan-I, what are all the things that you have to follow up. This will be taken care of soon," he said. India had hosted six foreign instruments in its maiden moon

odyssey Chandrayaan-I -- three from ESA, two from NASA and one from Bulgaria. ChandrayaanI carried India's five instruments. Chandrayaan-I was launched in October 2008, but the mission was abandoned in August last year when the spacecraft lost radio contact. Bangalore-headquartered ISRO said the venture had met more than 90 per cent of it scientific objectives. The highlight of the mission was finding of water on the moon's surface by a NASA instrument on

board. . However, Radhakrishnan indicated that the number of instruments on board Chandrayaan-II is likely be less than the one carried by Chandrayaan-I, which had 11. "In Chandrayaan-II, there is a lander and a rover...it will take the bulk of the mass. So for other instruments we have a limited space," he said. ISRO said the lander and the rover would be tasked to collect samples of the lunar soil, analyze them and send back the data.-PTI

Ambassador Roemer greets winners of NASA-Boeing contest

COLOMBO: Maldives has vowed not to allow its territory to be used for terrorist activities against its neighbors as reports surfaced that Pakistan-based LeT is eyeing isolated islands in the archipelago to be used as bases. "The Maldives will not allow terrorists to operate in the country. We will not allow terrorists to put the Maldives' and our neighbors' peace and security at risk," Presidential Spokesman Mohamed Zuhair told PTI from Male. The assurance came a day after Maldives' Minister of Home Affairs Mohamed Shihab held a nearly an hour-long meeting with his Indian counterpart P Chidambaram during which the two decided to upgrade their cooperation on security matters. India will soon ink an agreement with its southern neighbor to combat terror threats jointly. A Memorandum of Under-

standing on cooperation on antiterror measures and information sharing will be signed by the two countries by April, according to officials. The move by India and Maldives to address threats emanating from terror groups like LeT bears significance in view of reports that Lashkar-e-Taiba, that was responsible for the Mumbai terror attack, has been trying to make Maldives a hub to take advantage of its geographical location and isolated and sparsely populated islands. Indian government is also reportedly worried about the efforts of Pakistan-based terror groups to recruit jehadis from Maldives. . India is already helping Maldives by regularly patrolling its territorial waters and there is also a plan underway to set up a network of ground radars in all its atolls.-PTI

Amar Singh says party used him as a 'dust bin' NEW DELHI: Expelled The former SP leader said that Samajwadi Party leader Amar several Muslim leaders and workers Singh has accused the party lead- were "shocked" at the party's move ership of using him as a "dust bin" to shake hands with Kalyan Singh. and shifting the blame on him for "But they were forced to raise decisions that later backfired. slogans like Kalyan Singh "My journey in SP has been zindabad," he said, adding that from a dust bin to being termed as blaming him for getting close to garbage," he told reporters here. Kalyan Singh was wrong on part Singh said he is being blamed of leaders like national spokesperfor the various decisions the party son Mohan Singh and general leadership took after they back- secretary Ram Gopal Yadav. . fired including extending the hand Singh said that when Jaya of friendship to former BJP leader Prada was given a ticket to conKalyan Singh. test Lok Sabha elections from While claiming that most of the decisions were taken by While claiming that most of the party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav and his decisions were taken by party cousin Ram Gopal chief Mulayam Singh Yadav Yadav, he said, "Now I am being blamed for and his cousin Ram Gopal them... I am a kshatriya. Had they Yadav, he said, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Now I am asked me to take re- being blamed for themâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sponsibility for the wrong decisions they have taken, I would have readily Rampur for the first time, another accepted. But it is a conspiracy to expelled leader Azam Khan had blame me for everything which supported the move as she was went wrong". the only person who could have He claimed he was recuperat- defeated Congress veteran Begum ing in a Singapore hospital when Noor Bano. both Mulayam and Kalyan shared "If it was wrong to give Jaya the dais during the party's con- Prada the ticket for the first term, vention in Agra last year. why was she nominated from the "Do you think that I became a seat for the second time. It was ghost and whispered in Mulayam Mulayam Singh and Ram Gopal Singhji's ears to place the party's who had cleared her name. They red cap on Kalyan Singh's head," had signed on the papers," he Singh said. said. -PTI

Desi News

Star with a cause Madhavan coming to Chicago KRISHNA RAJ

CHICAGO: R. Madhavan of "Three Idiots" fame, who turned a star after the global release of the film, will be in Chicago to raise funds for Habitat for Humanity. Maharashtra Mandal, a Chicago based no-profit body of Maharashtrians, has slated press conference and a fund raising for Saturday, Feb 13 between 1.30pm to 4.30pm at the Meadows Club in Rolling Meadows, a north-west Chicago suburb. During this meet Madhavan, known popularly as Maddy, will walk through his career, share with the audience the behind the scenes moments and showcase his versatile personality.

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Youth join elite at grand Republic Day celebrations

February 12, 2010

Details on page 16

Indian Americans feel vindicated backing Toni, Quinn, Raja & Alex

Details on page 12

India a rising global power: Attri India Post News Service

SOUTH DAKOTA: A full day symposium titled "India - A Rising power in the new global order" was organized by the South Dakota World Affairs Council (SDWAC) on January 29 with assistance from Stanley Foundation in Iowa at the Union, Volstorff Ballroom at the South Dakota State University (SDSU). Indian Consul General in Chicago Ashok Kumar Attri was the keynote speaker. Details on page 13

Global Ashwamedh yagya movement started KRISHNA RAJ

Pat Quinn with his Indian supporters

SURESH BODIWALA & RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service

CHICAGO: It was a day of reckoning for many a candidate seeking party nominations for the elective positions for different positions at the State and Federal level. Some won and many lost, but the sure winner was the electorate- the voters. They gave a clear cut verdict in most cases and those who won with a razor thin majority also got a message. From Indian American view point in Illinois, hopes had centered on Raja Krishnamoorthi who sought Democratic nomination for the Illinois Comptroller position. At the time of going to the Press for this report, Raja lagged behind

his rival David Miller. He polled 45.8% of the votes against 46.6 polled by Miller. Raja congratulated Miller late in the event. Many felt that but for a relative poor voter turnout, Raja would have won outright and

Winning Democratic candidate for Cook county Board President Ald Tony Preckwinkle with Indian Americans

kistani community besides two main stream newspapers- Chicago Tribune and Sun Times Another Indian American who ran an unsuccessful race was Ashvin Lad, a young cancer survivor with an impressive educa-

Overall speaking Indian Americans were in a modest way, able to mark their stamp and presence felt in the political process of the country created history. Indo American Democratic Organization (IADO), a political wing of Indian Americans here, had extended its all out support to the candidate and so also all sections of Indian and Pa-

tion background. He had sought Republican nomination, for US Congress seat from District 5. His candidacy like Raja Krishnamoorthi's had endorsements from two major Chicago

Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ashvin Lad and Alex Ginnaolias

dailies- Chicago Tribune and Sun Times. He was pitted against two rivals and he ran third. Indian Americans however, had reason to feel happy as well since two candidates backed by them won- Alex Giannoulias for US Senate ( the seat vacated by now US President Barack Obama) and Ald Toni Preckwinkle for Cook County Board President. There were others too backed by IADO and Indian Americans raced past the winning post, and overall speaking they were even in a modest way, were able to mark their stamp and presence felt in the political process of the country. The race for the Illinois Governor was too close to get the final verdict while going to the press with this report. Governor Pat Quinn who had backing of Indian Americans and Indo American Democratic Organization (IADO) 50.4% and his only rival Dah Hynes had 49.6. Not all the votes were counted and Dan Hynes did not concede victory to Quinn. There were unconfirmed reports that there would be a recount of votes and a liked recourse to the Court for some alleged irregularity. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 11

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Gov. Christie names Dr. Alaigh to cabinet post India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: Dr. Poonam Alaigh, director of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, has been named Commissioner of the New Jersey Health and Senior Services Department by Gov. Chris Christie. Alaigh, 45 of Warren, will become the second South Asian-American to be appointed to a cabinet post in New Jersey, the first being Kris Kolluri, former CEO of the state's Schools Development Authority and former Commissioner of New Jersey's Department of Transportation in Jon Corzine's administration. Alaigh's appointment will need to be confirmed by the state Senate. Alaigh was the national medical director for the pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline. She practices medicine at the New Jersey Veterans Administration Hospital in Lyons and is a member of the College of New Jersey Board of Trustees and has served as president of the American Heart Association of North Jersey. "It is important we have a qualified team with the attitude and willingness to get to work, make tough decisions and strive for results,"' Christie said in Trenton. "These appointments will assure that the status quo isn't acceptable and the health and education of New Jersey's citizens will be in the best of hands." Alaigh has a multifaceted background in health care administration and delivery, including clinical practice hospital practice,

hospital administration, managed care, pharmaceutical medicine, and health care policy. Welcoming Alaigh's nomination, Assemblyman Upendra J. Chivukula (D-Somerset), said, "Dr. Poonam Alaigh's medical training and her experience in the insurance and pharmaceutical industries make her a great

addressing the healthcare disparities among South Asians by providing culturally competent health care for the community," Chivukula further stated. "She is a dedicated and results-oriented professional who is committed to providing quality and affordable healthcare to the state's residents. Serv-

Alaigh was the national medical director for the pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline. She practices medicine at the New Jersey Veterans Administration Hospital in Lyons and is a member of the College of New Jersey Board of Trustees and has served as president of the American Heart AssoDr. Poonam Alaigh

pick for the state's commissioner of Department of Health and Senior Services." "I have known Poonam for many years and had the opportunity to work closely with her on the Board of SATHI - South Asian Total Health Initiative - dedicated to

ciation of North Jersey ing in leadership positions in two of our state's foremost insurance and pharmaceutical companies provides her with invaluable experience in the private sector which will serve her well in her new assignment." Further welcoming the growing diversity

in the Christie cabinet, Chivukula commended the Governor for selecting highly qualified individuals with diverse backgrounds. Prior to joining Horizon BCBSNJ, Alaigh served as national medical director for GlaxoSmithKline and was working with health plans on a number of national issues, including better use of health care technology, the reduction of disparities in health care and healthcare access to the under and uninsured population. She is also an assistant professor in the Department of Family Practice at UMDNJ/Robert Wood Johnson University Medical School. Alaigh has had publications in the field of vascular disease and population health. She is a board certified internist with a specialty in vascular diseases and is certified as a Diplomate in Internal Medicine and licensed to practice in New York and New Jersey. She received her MD and her masters in health care policy and management at State University of New York at Stony Brook. Alaigh is a fellow of the American College of Physicians, one of the founding members of SATHI (the South Asian Total Healthcare Initiative) a program of the UMDNJ-RWJMS in New Jersey, is the past president and current member of the Board of Directors for the American Heart Association, Northern New Jersey chapter and the Founders' affiliate. She was appointed to serve on Governor-Elect Corzine's Transition Team on health care policy, strategies and issues in 2005.

Indian Americans feel vindicated backing Toni, Quinn, Raja & Alex Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 10

Ald Toni Preckwinkle was backed by a good number of Indian Americans led by Balwinder Singh and others. She would come to Devon Avenue (known as mini India town) often and had her election office opened near Western and Devon Avenue. She led a rally two days before the February 2 elections. Governor Pat Quinn too who had too backing from Indian Americans has a narrow lead and if declared winner he will face Republican Bill Brady in the final round this year end. Alex Giannoulias who sought US Senate seat was backed heavily by Indian Americans, including IADO. He wan a hard fought race and will be facing Mark Kirk who won handsomely trouncing his four opponents. Dr. Ram Gajjela in a talk to this paper said that IADO feels vindicated overall and "we are happy that our presence is being increasingly felt in the mainstream American politics." He said that it was necessary "for us to get registered as voters and go for voting to make our voice heard more effectively." Many Indian Americans had backed Cook County Circuit Court Clerk Dorothy Brown for the position of Cook County Board Presi-

Devon rally for Ald Tony Preckwinkle

dent but she lost. In fact, she was in the lead early in the months but lost to her rival Toni Preckwinkle who got endorsements from a number of undecided voters and major dailies like Chicago Tribune and Sun Times. Dorothy was popular among Indian Americans for her support to the community and being with them at most of their important events. Her defeat is regretted by many. The winner Ald Toni Preckwinkle was also supported by Indian and Pakistani community. Balwinder Singh a front ranking community activist, was in the forefront of this support and he

had held a few fund raisers and had led rally on Devon Avenue. In

Many Indian Americans had backed Cook County Circuit Court Clerk Dorothy Brown for the position of Cook County Board President but she lost a talk to this paper, he said that the Preckwinkle victory was a

American politicians supported by Indians L to R US Rep Jan Schakowski, Ald Joe Moore and Vinesh Virani of Art of Living

foregone conclusion for him and many of her Desi supporters since she is "clean, well educated, well experienced and forthright in her views." Preckwinkle has promised to roll back the tax hike that was introduced by her predecessor Ted Strogger who lost badly. She also assured her supporters that her administration would reflect the ethnic mix in the County population. India Post correspondent Suresh Bodiwla had gone visiting a number precincts and was appalled to see a general apathy among voters to go the polling booth and vote. This included

even Indianan Americans and he at a few places urged and goaded them to go and vote for the candidates of their choice so that their voices would be heard at the right places. IADO and other ethnic organizations need to cultivate awareness among citizens to get registered themselves as voters and vote on elections days. There would be re-alignments among voters now for the final two party elections later in the year and the top brass of the community feel that Preckwinkle would be next Cook County Board President, Alex Giannoulias US Senator and Pat Quinn Illinois Governor.

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Star with a cause Madhavan coming to Chicago

February 12, 2010

National Maharashtra Convention in Chicago

KRISHNA RAJ

"eliminate poverty housing and homelessness from the world and to make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action." They have built over 350,000 homes all over the global and created housing for over 1.75 million people. Several prominent international and national personalities have joined hands together to volunteer for Habitat for Humanity. Madhavan is one of he active supporters. Maddy has a multifaceted per-

Maddy landed a lifetime opportunity when renowned director Mani Ratnam offered him a role in "Alaipayuthey" (2002) which turned out to be a blockbuster and cult film of its times R. Madhavan

During this meet Madhavan, known popularly as Maddy, will walk through his career, share with the audience the behind the scenes moments and showcase his versatile personality. The audience will also get an opportunity to meet the star in person, ask him questions and take pictures and autographs. Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit global organization established in 1976 with a mission to

sonality. As a boy, he was keen on joining the defense establishment and so he joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC). He went on to the National Best Cadet competition. He was selected to represent India in England as a Junior Defense Ambassador in England. Here, he trained with the Royal Army, Navy and Air Force. He enrolled for the National Public Speaking Competition organized by the Indian Junior Cham-

bers and went on to win the National Gold Medal. As a result of this victory, Maddy was selected to represent India at the Young Businessman's Conference in Japan in 1992. Interestingly, Maddy began to conduct courses in public speaking, interviews and group discussion techniques and soon earned a reputation of being a highly effective coach. Here one of his students suggested that he should give a shot for a modeling career. Encouraged by his students, Maddy entered a fashion/ model hunt and emerged a finalist in the event. He was thus discovered by a director of soap operas on TV and was immediately offered a role in Banegi Apni Baat. The rest, as they say, is history. Several soap operas, national and international modeling assignments followed. Maddy landed a lifetime opportunity when renowned director Mani Ratnam offered him a role in "Alaipayuthey" (2002) which turned out to be a blockbuster and cult film of its times. Mani Ratnam went on to do the next five films of his, with Madhavan as his lead, right up till his recent flick Guru (2007) with Abhishek Bachchan and Aishwarya Rai. His latest blockbuster is 'Three Idiots', which has grossed INR 375 crores worldwide making it Bollywood's biggest hit. Madhavan was voted the "cutest male vegetarian" by an online poll conducted by the NGO in July 2006.

Maharashtra Mandal office bearers and Convention volunteers L to R Santanu Keskar, Vir Doshi, Nitesh Joshi, Prakash Toke and Sujeet Vaidya

RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service

CHICAGO: One of the oldest ethnic organizations in Chicagoland Maharashtra Mandal will be playing host to the 15th biennial convention of Brihat Maharashtra Mandal (BMM) to be held in Chicago from July 21 to 23, 2011. Announcing this to ethnic news media in Chicago, Convention Chair Nitesh Joshi said that it was after 25 years that the Convention will be held in the city and the Chicago based Maharashtra

IALI endorses Ami Bera for Congress India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The Indian American Leadership Initiative (IALI) has endorsed physician Ami Bera for Congress in California's third district. Bera, the former Chief Medical Officer for Sacramento County, is a first generation American and lifelong Californian whose parents emigrated to the US from India over 50 years ago. He and his wife, Dr. Janine Bera, have been residents of Elk Grove, CA for over 15 years and have a 12-year-old daughter, Sydra. "IALI believes that Dr. Ami Bera is an excellent candidate for US Congress," said IALI president Kathy Kulkarni. "Bera has a strong understanding of the most pressing issues facing our nation and IALI is pleased to support him." "It is an honor for me to receive the support of such a civic-minded organization," said Bera. "The

outpouring of support our campaign has received has been gratifying and inspiring. I know that IALI's leadership will prove to be a valuable asset in our campaign. The diversity of our supporters is

Bera is focusing on an education system that ensures affordable public higher education and specialized training for all those who desire it proof that our campaign has the widespread support we'll need to return this seat to the people of the third district." Bera is campaigning on some of the issues that have become

issues of major concern for Americans. He intends to work towards a health care system that provides compassionate and essential coverage to all; reduces the cost of services without compromising quality of care and minimizes interference of government or the insurance industry in decisions that should be made between the patient and their care provider. Bera is focusing on an education system that ensures affordable public higher education and specialized training for all those who desire it; an economy that rewards employment and creates career pathways that will provide for a secure and sustainable future; a "Smart" and "Green" relationship with the earth that is both environmentally and economically wise and sustainable; and a society in which Families and Communities can develop and flourish free from the social and economic conditions that threaten stability.

Nitesh Joshi addressing the Media meet in Chicago

Mandal that had hosted the first such meet in 1985 was proud to host this Convention in 2011. He said that the Convention would be held at the prestigious McCormick Place Lake Side and expectations are that over 4000 people from all over the world would attend the meet. The 14th biennial convention held in Philadelphia last year had attracted over 5000 peoples while the first such Convention in Chicago 25 yeas ago had hardly 250 members attending it. Elaborating he said that the local Maharashtra Mandal has already started gearing itself to this Herculean task and has set up 17

committees and enlisted 75 volunteers from across the country. The three main features to the Convention, he said, would be business conference, social meetings and cultural program. Top ranking business people not only from Maharashtra but also from USA and others parts of the globe would be attending and exploring ways and means to give a boost to the economy of Maharashtra and thereby India. Renowned artists from India supplemented with USA based talents would present cultural program while a number of social and other

Top ranking business people not only from Maharashtra but also from USA and others parts of the globe would be attending and exploring ways and means to give a boost to the economy of Maharashtra issues would come to be discussed at the Convention. Sujeet Vaidya is the Co-chair and he mentioned that a formal kick off for the Convention is set on February 13 at Meadows Club where a budding film artist from Bollywood, R Madhavan has agreed to be present. Those present at the meeting were Pete Toke, Vir Doshi and Santanu Keskar- all active members of the Mandal and volunteers. The Chicago Maharashtra Mandal was established in 1970 and hence, it happens to be among oldest ethnic bodies in Illinois. The Maharashtrian population in USA, according to Sujeet Vaidya, is estimated at 150,000 people.

Community Across America

February 12, 2010

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India a rising global power: Attri Symposium were Dr Chandradhar Dwivedi, Distinguished Professor, SDSU, Dr Mary Kay Helling, Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, SDSU, Dr Karl Schmidt, Director of International Affairs, SDSU and Ms Harriet Swedlund, Executive Director of SDWAC. Ashok Kumar Attri also had a meeting with the Board of Directors of the South Dakota World Affairs Council which is one of

Indian CG Ashok Kumar Attri addressing economic meet on India in South Dakota

Members of the audience India Post News Service

keynote speaker. Addressing the meet, he said that the economic change that is taking place in India will transform it as a global power by the next decade. He also underlined the collaborative opportunities between Indian and American people, and pointed out that it will have a far reaching impact on agriculture, education, culture and a whole lot of other area of human activities of these two countries and globally. Dr Charles Woodward, Presi-

dent, SDWAC welcomed the guests and spoke on "Why India" in his welcoming address. Dr. David L. Chicoine, President of SDSU welcomed and introduced CG Attri. The others who spoke on the occasion were Dr Prem Jauhar, Research Genetist, USDA Agricultural Research Service, Fargo, North Dakota, Ms Lionel Sweeny, Vice President for Human Resources at Suzlon Wind Energy Corporation, Chicago, and Pipestone, Minnesota.

Tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 62nd death anniversary SURESH BODIWALA

Indian Americans gather in Skokie to pay homage to Mahatma Gandhi

CHICAGO: A prayer ceremony and memorial was held on January 30 at the Mahatma Gandhi Statue in Skokie, Illinois, to mark the 62nd death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Braving the bitter cold, over 25 people were present The program commenced with laying rose flowers at the feet of Bapu Ji's statue. Om Prakash Kamaria, the event coordinator and Chairman of Gandhi Memorial Trust (GMT), in his remarks said, "Gandhiji has changed the lives of millions around the world. By following principles of disobedience and non violence, Dr Martin Luther

King, Jr. was able to achieve civil rights for African Americans, and countries like S. Africa and Poland became free. To pay real tribute to him, we must teach our children and grand children the Indian values and also his teaching. He has made India and Indians proud of our culture and values". Highlight of the evening was devotional speeches by Jody Wadhwa, Dr Sonty, Raman K. Patel and a prayer by Rohit Joshi. The event also included group singing of Gandhi Ji's favorite prayer songs 'Vaishnav jan to tene Kahiye' and 'De di hame azaadi'.

Dr John Miller, Professor Emeritus, SDSU, Department of History, acted as the Moderator in a Panel discussion "The Story of People from India who live in South Dakota." Other participants in the Panel discussion were Ajith Kumar of Citicorp Bank, Raja Patel a Businessman, Fee Jacobson a Businesswomen, Rumela Bhadra an SDSU Graduate student and Abhay Mistry, a Brookings High School senior. Others who participated in the

He also underlined the collaborative opportunities between Indian and American people the 90 councils nationwide affiliated with the World Affairs Councils of America. He held a separate meeting with Dr David L. Chicoine, President and Professor of Economics of the South Dakota State University. During the meeting he was briefed about the agreement signed for cooperation between SDSU and University of Hyderabad, India.

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Republic Day at the Indian Consulate MOHAMMAD GHOUSE

CHICAGO: The 61st Republic Day of India was celebrated by the Consulate General in the premises of the Consulate on January 26. Ashok Kumar Attri, Consul General of India, unfurled the National Flag which was followed by singing of the National Anthem. The Consul General then conveyed the message of the President of India Pratibha Devisingh Patil, an address to the Nation on the eve of the Republic Day 2010. CG Attri, also highlighted the growing Indo-US cooperation since the celebration of the last Republic Day with several high level visits exchanged between India and US. He recalled the recent visit of Prime Minister of India Manmohan Singh to USA in November 2009 and the visit of US Secretary of Defense Robert N Gates to India in January 2010. Representatives of Government of India and Public Sector offices

CG Ashok Kumar Attri seen unfurling Indian Flag during Republic Day celebrations at Indian Consulate

in Chicago like the State Bank of India, Air India, Engineering Export Promotion Council and Indian Diaspora were present along with the members of the Consulate staff and their families. An eminent social worker Vimal

Vyas, a resident of Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India, who was visiting Chicago was also present amongst the guests. He presented CG Ashok Kumar Attri a turban, shawl and a memento at the commencement of the event.

Padma Bhushan for Chicagoland resident

February 12, 2010

Consulate observes Gandhi Punya Tithi India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The Consulate General of India, New York in association with the Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, USA organized a function to mark the 62nd anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi's Punya Tithi (death anniversary) on Jan 30, at the New India House. Around 70 participants including teachers, academics, journalists, noted Gandhians and office bearers of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan attended the function. A bust of Mahatma Gandhi was garlanded by Consul General Prabhu Dayal, Dr. Navin Mehta, a trustee of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan and Dr. Najma Sultana, Board Member, American Federation of Muslims from India. Speaking on the occasion, Amb. Dayal touched upon the different aspects of Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy and its continuing relevance in the contemporary world. The program was followed with singing of Gandhiji's favorite bhajans by Sanjukta Sen

and students of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan. She started with Kabir Das's poem "Bhaja Mana Ram Rahim" and ended the bhajan program with "Raghu Pati Raghav

Consul General Prabhu Dayal garlanding a bust of Gandhiji on his death anniversary on Jan 30.

Raja Ram". Students of Indian Culture Course of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan recited poems on Gandhiji. The program ended with a vote of thanks by Kenny Desai, Secretary of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan.

GOPIO-CT honors Mayor Pavia

highest award in the Padma category, on the eve of the 60th Republic Day of India by the President of India for his "distinguished service of high order" in the field of "Literature and Education." Chung is an Indian Citizen of Chinese descent born in Malaya in 1929, having lived, first, in China for 23 years, and then, in India for 44 years. He stepped into the shoes of his illustrious father, Prof. Tan Yun-Shan (1898-1983) of Shantiniketan, a pioneer of Chinese studies in India and Sino-Indian

India Post News Service

He has authored many books, among which, China and the Brave New World and also Triton and Dragon (a Gyan Publication) are text books for history courses in Indian and foreign universities

CHICAGO: It was with baited breath that Indian Americans in Chicagoland waited for an announcement from New Delhi about the Padma Shri Awards to be announced for chosen NRIs. They expected that at least one of their acclaimed leaders and community activists would get the honor. A few names are said to have been suggested to the Indian government by concerned authorities in this country, but when the final announcement came there were surprises, as usual From Chicagoland, Tan Chung was awarded the Padma Bhushan, the second

studies and contributed to the building up of the Chinese studies programs in Delhi University and Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) from 1964 up till 1994 when he finally retired from JNU as Professor of Chinese. He has authored many books, among which, China and the Brave New World and also Triton and Dragon (a Gyan Publication) are text books for history courses in Indian and foreign universities. Since 1999, Prof. Tan and his wife have been living in Chicago with their son. Indian Consul General Ashok Kumar Attri greeted Chung and Mrs Chung at one of the recent Consulate events.

Tan Chung and Mrs Chung greeted by Indian CG Ashok Kumar Attri

Mayor Michael Pavia and Lt. Governor Michael Fedele with some of the members of the executive board of GOPIO-CT. Left to right, Ravi Dhingra, Shamla Sharma, Shailesh Naik, Lt. Governor Michael Fedele, Carol Fedele, Mayor Michael Pavia, Maureen Pavia, Sangeeta Ahuja, Shelly Nichani and guests. India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Stamford Mayor Michael Pavia and his wife Maureen were honored at a dinner reception organized by GOPIO Connecticut at the Hampton Inn in Stamford, CT on Jan 29. Also attending were Lt. Governor Michael Fedele and his wife Carol, as well as several key members of the Pavia administration - Police Chief Robert Nivakoff, Laurie Auchubon, Director of Economic Development, Ernie Orgera, Director of Operations, and Michael Larobina, Director of Legal Affairs. Bobby Valentine was one of the celebrities who took time out to attend this reception for Mayor Pavia. Speaking to a packed audience, Mayor Pavia touched on a variety of issues and priorities, including "making Stamford one of the friendliest places to work and live

in." He said that he and his team were committed to make Stamford the "engine of economic growth in the region." At the same time he is committed to making Stamford a "more compassionate city - a city that cares." He praised the Indian-American community for contributing to the vibrancy of Stamford and its outstanding success in all walks of life. "I look forward to working with you to ensure that it is easy to conduct business with the city of Stamford," he said. Welcoming the Mayor and members of his administration, Shailesh Naik, President of GOPIO-CT said, "We are indeed honored that you and Maureen could be with us today to share your vision and meet with members of the local community. We look forward to an ongoing dialog with your office." Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 19

Community Across America

February 12, 2010

India Post

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INDIA DONATION FOR HAITI: On January 15, India announced a cash donation of US $ 5 million towards relief measures as a token of India's solidarity with the victims of the recent earthquake in Haiti. The transfer of this amount was completed on February 2 when Ambassador Hardeep Singh Puri, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations, handed over the necessary documentation in New York to the Permanent Representative of Haiti to the UN, Ambassador LÈo MÈrorËs. (Pic Mohammed Jaffer-SnapsIndia)

PRASAD HONORED: M.G. Prasad, a professor at Stevens Institute of Technology, NJ, was awarded the Bharat Gaurav Award by the Indian International Friendship Society on January 7, in New Delhi during a Conference on Global Participation in India's Economic Development. The award was conferred on Prof. Prasad for meritorious services, by Iqbal Singh, Governor of Puducherry and Mukul Wasnik, Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment. Prof. Prasad currently serves as Director of the Noise and Vibration Control Laboratory in Department of Mechanical Engineering.

Global Ashwamedh yagya movement started KRISHNA RAJ

CHICAGO: Global Gayatri Pariwar organized a Vasant Punchami program for celebrating Yugrishi Pt. Shree Ram Sharma Acharya's birthday at Gayatri Shaktipeeth in Chicago. More than 300 devotees participated in paying homage to their Guru and resolving to usher a whole new era for mankind. For the Gayatri Parijans all over the globe, this day is of special importance. On this very day, in 1926, Gurudev Pandit Shriram Sharma Acharyaji, met with his Guru Swami Sarveshwaranandaji - on whose insistence he started the series of 24 Mahapurashcharans of Gayatri Mantra (each consisting of 2.4 million recitation of Gayatri Mantra every year) and lit the Akhand Deepak (constantly lit lamp). From that day onwards, Poojya Gurudev started celebrating this day as his spiritual birthday every year. All the new steps of Yug Nirman Mission were initiated on this auspicious parva only. This year the pious parva has special significance because this marks the beginning of the (prepa-

Gayatri Yagya performed at Gayatri Shaktipeeth in Chicago

rations year) for the Centenary Celebrations next year in 2011 of Gurudev Pandit Shree Ram Sharma Acharya. The program started with devotional songs by Haridwar saints Omkar Katre, and discourses by Shaymveer Singh. Gayatri Yagya was performed by Kusumben Patel and Harshaben Thakkar. Chief guest Jagdishbhai Khatwani said that everyone has to support Gayatri Shaktipeeth Chicago; they are spreading good thought in society. Invited guest was Haribhai Patel from Saurastra

This year the pious parva has special significance because this marks the beginning of the (preparations year) for the Centenary Celebrations next year in 2011 of Gurudev Pandit Shree Ram Sharma Acharya Samaj and he came with a senior group. He said that the divine

Devotees participating in Aarti

work initiated by Kusumben Patel and others needed to be supported in full. Two devotee girls Zeel and Zeenal performed 'Raghupati Raghav Raja Ram ' dance. Sunny Thakkar explained Gayatri mantra meaning in English and encouraged youngster to participate in Gayatri mission. Kusumben Patel pitched for regular chanting of Gayatri Mantra to help ushering New Era fast. She also mentioned that in the Global Ahwamedh Chicago it is planned to perform 1008 one kundiy Gayatri Yagya not

only in Chicago and USA cities but also in 24 other courtiers too. The start for this process of performing Yagya has been done at Niles, a Chicago suburb, on January 20 and the second yagya was performed on January 24, Sunday at 6023 N. Northwest Hwy. Chicago, she said. She urged everyone to participate in this Ashwamedh Yagya movement and pointed out Haridwar saints are here in Temple and would be available to perform Gayatri Yagya at residence of intending devotee.

Shankar's International Children's competition India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Shankar's International has invited entries for paintings/drawing, creative writing, from children across the world. The competition, prizes for which include the President of India's Gold Medal, is open to children born on or after Jan 1, 1994.

K. Shankar Pillai was a famous Indian cartoonist, who brought out a popular magazine called 'Shankar's Weekly'. Under his guidance the Shankar's International Children's Competition was first organized in 1949. It invited paintings and writings from children in India. The response was so overwhelming that the following year the competition was thrown open to children

from all over the world. The prizes include: the President of India's Gold Medal for best painting/drawing; the Shankar's award for best written work; 18 Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Gold Medals for the best paintings/drawing/written work; and about 400 Silver Medals and 400 other prizes. The last date for receiving international

entries is February 28, 2010. Entries should be mailed directly to "Shankar's International Children's competition Nehru House, 4-Bahadur Shah Zafar Marg, New Delhi110002." Further details regarding the competition including rules and regulations can be found at http:// www.childrensbooktrust.com/sicc.htm

Community/California

India Post

Cal News 24-hour Surya Namaskar Yogathon ANJALI KASHALKAR

February 12, 2010

www.indiapost.com

Youth join elite at grand R-Day celebrations

Details on page 17

Census Bureau previews Asian advertising India Post News Service

Induction and oath taking of FIA members

SUJATA SINGH India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: The U.S. Census Bureau and its Los Angeles regional census center has previewed the national Asian advertising campaign for the 2010 Census, which seeks to boost the national mail-back participation rate by increasing awareness and educating the public about the importance of participating in the oncea-decade headcount. "One of the primary goals for our advertising and outreach campaign is to increase the number of people who mail back their forms when they arrive in March," Census Bureau Director Robert M. Groves said.

FREMONT: The FIA members hosted India's sixty first Republic

chance to visit India. FIA Chairman Dr. Romesh Japra welcomed all and said "India has the privilege of being the oldest democracy in the world.

Senator Ellen Corbett emphasized on the uniqueness of this event and said she was proud to be present. She has traveled to India extensively and is amazed at

Surprisingly a large number of youth were present on a Sunday evening, very responsive and thoroughly enjoying themselves

Details on page 20 Dr Romesh Japra addressing the gathering

'Coming Out' great success for LGBTIQQ groups India Post News Service

Day at The Newark Pavilion, CA. on January 31.There were a large number of invitees and dignitaries from all walks of life. The pavilion was packed to capacity, with national pride and patriotism draped all over. The colorful event began with American national anthem followed by the Indian national anthem. The Consul General of India Susmita Gongulee Thomas gave an address and message from the President of India congratulating the effort and involvement of everyone present to make this event successful. Thomas is a regular attendee at all the Indian cultural events and spoke highly of the community being so very actively involved in representing Indian values and spreading its culture to the youth who probably had no

India and America are the largest democracies and its people have the commitment to fulfill the promise of being great nations."

its diversity and deep cultural ties. The list of dignitaries seemed to be unending. Among those present were Fremont Mayor Bob

Awardees and dignitaries

Wassermann, Fremont Unified School District board members Lara York and Larry Sweeney, Rev. Mammen, Olhone College Board of trustee Garret Yee and Theresa Cox, San Jose Council person Ash Kalra and Rose Herrera, Fremont Council person Anu Natrajan, Susan Chan, Bill Harrison, Bob Wykoski, Christina Moore, Ms Wong, Mr Chu with his wife Daisy. Spokesperson Yogi Chugh introduced the guests and acknowledged their gracious presence, thanking them for being a part of Republic Day celebration. Surprisingly a large number of youth were present on a Sunday evening, very responsive and thoroughly enjoying themselves. This evidently shows a new trend of being 'India-proud' and hope this trickles down to future generation as well. We need to imbibe our youth with the best Indian cultural values and its traditions. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 18

Community/California

February 12, 2010

India Post

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24-hour Surya Namaskar Yogathon ANJALI KASHALKAR

IRVINE, CA: In today's world where people find it difficult to squeeze in some time for exercises, Hindu Swayamsevek Sangh (HSS) brought together over 200 people to perform 12085 Surya Namaskars (Sun Salutations) for the 24 Hour Yogathon. People drove from distant places including Pasadena, Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Cerritos and Anaheim to participate in this unique Marathon. Yogathon 2010 began at the Irvine Temple on January 29 at 7:00 pm. Hundreds of volunteers gathered and performed Surya Namaskars for the cause of "Health for Humanity". HSS press release stated that each Surya Namaskar has ten different physical postures, which includes stretching and bending. These alternating backward and forward bending postures flex and stretch the spinal column through their maximum range giving a profound stretch to the whole body. This exercise has a deep effect in detoxifying the organs through copious oxygenation and gives a deeper relaxing effect, it stated. Benefits of Surya Namaskar include improvement in the digestive system, strengthening abdominal muscles, ventilating lungs and oxygenating the blood, tones up nervous system and improves memory, promotes sleep and clams anxiety, normalizes the activity of thyroid glands, refreshes skin, improves muscle flexibility, prevents hair loss, reduces fat, and makes the spine and waist flexible. To say it in short, Surya Namaskar helps in maintaining good health, strength, efficiency and longevity, stated the press release. Swami Ishwarananda of Chinmay Mission, Tustin, inaugurated the Surya Namaskar Yogathon. "Sun gives brightness and nourishment to everyone. He is the one who gives energy and life sustainance to all living beings", he said while explaining the importance of worshiping the Sun god and performing Surya Namaskars at Sunrise. Swamiji is a dynamic speaker and has

Swami Ishwarananda of Chinmaya Mission, Tustin, lighting the lamp.

given talks on Vedanta, stress management, management techniques and other spiritual topics. HSS volunteers performed 12085 Surya Namaskars in a set of 13 as there are 13 names for Sun God. After performing one or two sets, next group of people replaced them. Irvine chapter of HSS compiled a list

Large number of people performing Surya Namaskar for the cause of `Health for Humanity'

service. Irvine Mayor and City Council could not join the Yogathon due to schedule conflicts. However, they sent their wishes and a letter of recognition, stated the press release. HSS hopes that they could participate in the event, next year. Yogathon is part of the fourth annual

Swami Ishwarananda of Chinmay Mission, Tustin, inaugurated the Surya Namaskar Yogathon. "Sun gives brightness and nourishment to everyone. He is the one who gives energy and life sustainance to all living beings", he said of volunteers and allotted time slots for each. Lot of effort was taken in coordinating this event. More interestingly, free Surya Namaskar training was provided by the volunteers at request. Many people who were not aware of the right postures for performing Surya Namaskar benefited through this

Surya Namaskar Yajna (SNY) organized by HSS throughout USA between Jan 16 and Jan 31. Their goal was to perform 1 million Surya Namaskars with the help of more than 10,000 participants by January 31st 2010. The final count of Namaskars could not be known as the organization is still working

on it. To mark the beginning with great enthusiasm, HSS also arranged `Surya Namaskar Yajna Lehar' (meaning wave) on Jan 16, all over the country. In Southern California, volunteers started the Lehar by contacting each other on the phone and performing Surya Namaskar in a series. 83 participants all over Southern California performed 2024 Surya Namaskar in first two hours. This included participation of volunteers from Salt Lake, Phoenix, Pasadena, Cerritos, San Diego, Simi Valley, Valencia, Irvine and students from University of California, Irvine (UCI). HSS invited community groups, Yoga centers and students of all ages to participate, learn this unique Yoga, and continue practicing beyond the Health for Humanity Marathon. This program was open to people of all ages, gender, and races. HSS meets at Heritage Park Community Center, Irvine every Sunday between 3:30pm to 5:00. Their activities include Yoga, games and spiritual lectures.

Life Bliss Meditation Centers inaugurated India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: In an effort to reach out to more people and to share the transformational teachings of Enlightened Master, Paramahamsa Nithyananda, volunteers recently began 12 Life Bliss Meditation Centers, holding weekly gatherings throughout the Los Angeles area. Locations of local meditation centers include West LA, Redondo Beach, Pasadena, and Arroyo Grande. The variety of locations allow participants to attend weekly meetings at a center near their home or work and to connect easily with meditation. Weekly meetings include an engaging discussion, a lively

question-and- answer session, and a simple yet powerful medi-

Participants experience many benefits from these classes in both personal and professional life from these weekly gatherings tation technique. A different topic is covered each week by a

trained volunteer using interactive media. Topics are presented in a simple, straightforward, and interesting way with many practical examples given. Some topics covered include "Excel Without Stress", "Face Your Fears and Be Free", "Desire is a Dynamic Energy", and "Gratitude is Enough". Participants experience many benefits from these classes in both personal and professional life from these weekly gatherings. Through effective meditation techniques and practical teachings, participants find they have higher energy levels and creativity and are able to respond to daily stresses more effectively.

Every fourth week, the unique Life Bliss Meditation is taught and practiced. Life Bliss Meditation, also known as the "Nithya Dhyaan," is a unique 35-minute dynamic meditation designed by Paramahamsa Nithyananda and is suitable for all skill and experience levels. According to

Nithyananda, "Life Bliss Meditation is a holistic and complete technique that will help you experience a new dimension of your being." In addition, "Sattvic Cooking" classes and Nithya Yoga will also be featured at some of the local centers.

Community/California

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February 12, 2010

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Youth join elite at grand Republic Day celebrations Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 16

Cultural events began with a 'Jaye-Ho' song dance performance by children as young as 4-5 years! This was followed by a number of dances and classical performances each outdoing the other. Everyone got a standing ovation from the attendees. Colorful dresses and twirling feet got a pride of moms frantically clicking away their cameras making it impossible to view the recital for those seated! There were many new members added to FIA and talking to India Post they said that "It was a wise decision as feeling of being back home in India is present." Akash Brahmbhatt and Pramod Patel of Global Trust Bank were present too to show their support for the cause. The bank is wholly owned by Indian community with 50 million in assets, and actively promotes SBA loans. They are based at Mountainview, CA. Roger Bakshi CEO/Broker

Ms.Mathur, Susmita Thomas, Rajesh Verma

Rev. Mammen. He gave an oath of duties to the new members who committed themselves to dedicated selfless service to make FIA events a grand success. Many new members were inducted and solemnly took the oath. Interspersed with all these events was the variety show being presented by youngsters. Later, Dignitaries Award Ceremony was held and awards

Theresa Cox, Dr. Romesh Japra, Leela Mathur

Performance by children

is on a path of self building, each step taken reaps immense support from Indian as well as American community, as their efforts to promote harmony and well being is highly appreciated and applauded. We all eagerly wait for the Independence Day festival and the 18th year of parade to be held on 14th and 15th August in the City of Fremont.

Roger Bakshi, Mrs. Bakshi

CalCoast Financial said that his company is helping home owners specially those who are hit by mortgage debacle, and strongly supports the community to help come over their mortgage crisis. The FIA family was intro-

were presented for excellent work in various social causes. The awardees were Theresa Cox, Trustee, Olhone College; Lara York Fremont Board of Education; Rose Herrara, Council person, City of San Jose; Evan Low, Mayor, City of Campbell; PNG

Ash Kalra

Sonia, Garret Yee

duced with a change in leadership. Rajesh Verma is now the new President of FIA. An honor well deserved! An invocation of new FIA Board and members associations was conducted by

Jewelers and Abode Services. The awardees were humbled by this gesture and promised to keep up their support for the community in Bay Area. The FIA Northern California

Volunteers

Community/California

February 12, 2010

India Post

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First ever gurdwara coming up in Dubai DYA SINGH (sikhpoint.com)

Main view of the gurdwara

In the gloom and doom of global inter-religious conflict I have a beacon of hope to share. The Islamic owners and rulers of the jewel in the desert - Dubai, in the gulf states of United Arab Emirates, on the sub-continent of Arabia, the heart of Islam, have given royal and Islamic religious permission to the Sikhs to build their 'gurdwara' amongst them. In early 2009 I received information through the email grapevine that a gurdwara was being built in Dubai. I was intrigued. Let us face it; Muslims do not stand in favorable light at present with acts of terrorism, persecutions and killings of not only non-Muslims but fellow Muslims as well. Ancient Buddhist statues have been demolished by them in Afghanistan. Moderate Muslims and Bahais are fleeing Islamic countries due to persecution. One of my tabla players is an Afghan refugee now residing in my hometown Melbourne in Australia. His family fled with their lives in danger because he comes from a long line of Afghan musicians. His uncle Khalil Gudaz is a proficient sitarist here, slowly gaining national and international fame. I am sure all of us have Muslim fundamentalist and terrorist hor-

ror stories to tell. Closer to home, we have conflict in Malaysia where fundamentalist Islamic groups are unhappy about their 'law' recently allowing nonMuslims to freely use the word 'Allah' to refer to God. They feel that that word is exclusive to Muslims and should not be used by non-Muslims. In the process, the mindless fools amongst them have made arson attacks and have burnt down a number of churches and even thrown stones and broken the windows of a gurdwara in Kuala Lumpur. The predominantly Islamic government has not made any commitments one way or the other - further aggravating the situation. In all this negativity about Islam, a new gurdwara in Arabia? I was intrigued. So, it was a pleasant and very exciting surprise last October, when Sardar Surender Singh Kendhari sent me an email inviting us to do kirtan in Dubai for Guru Gobind Singh Ji's Gurpurab (birth anniversary) in early January this year. I recognized the name, because he is the man most responsible for this venture. So we did ... and this is what I gleaned from Sardar Kendhari, S. Keval Singh Sasson and other Dubai domiciled Sikhs, about this example

GOPIO-CT honors Mayor Pavia Cont’d from page 14

Sangeeta Ahuja, who chaired the event said, "This evening with Mayor Pavia is part of GOPIO Connecticut's commitment to create an ongoing dialogue between the community and local leaders and officials." In the Q&A session moderated by Ravi Dhingra, vice president of GOPIO-CT, Pavia said that "he had made diversity in the educational system and at all levels of his administration an important priority." As to his vision of Stamford over the next four years, Pavia reiterated his mission of "making Stamford the engine of economic growth in the region," while at the same time being "a city that cares, a diverse, multi-ethnic city that welcomes all

who call Stamford home." GOPIO-CT serves as a non-partisan, secular, civic and community service organization - promoting awareness of Indian culture, customs and contributions of PIOs

Pavia reiterated his mission of ‘making Stamford the engine of economic growth in the region’ through community programs, forums, events and youth activities. It seeks to strengthen partnerships and create an ongoing dialogue with local communities and lawmakers.

of positive inter-religious interaction. It is a very intriguing story. First, a brief history. Up till 1966 Dubai was completely under British protection and Indian rupee was the currency. That same year oil was discovered leading to a massive influx of foreign compa-

‘It was a pleasant and very exciting surprise last October, when Sardar Surender Singh Kendhari sent me an email inviting us to do kirtan in Dubai for Guru Gobind Singh Ji's Gurpurab’ nies, including oil companies of course, investments and (mainly) Indian and Pakistani workers. In 1971 the Emirs of Abu Dhabi, Dubai and five other neighboring emirates joined together to form the United Arab Emirates with its own currency the UAE dirham, and gained independence from Britain. Dubai is only a small sub-emirate within the UAE with Abu Dhabi being the largest but due to

Dya Singh (pics: Peter Hammer)

the astuteness of the Emir, His Highness Mohammed bin Rashid Al Makhtoum, it began development as a business and tourism hub of the middle-east. It opened the Ali Jebel Free Zone and invited investment with minimum restrictions and red-tape. Today Dubai is called 'the shopping and business capital of the middle-east'. This has also attracted tourism on a very large scale. It boasts some of the most futuristic buildings and structures in the world. While we were there, the tallest building in the world, the 'Khalifah Burj' was unveiled. Some constructions on reclaimed land, like the Palm (residential) Island, are breathtaking. We visited the Atlantis Hotel which is like a Wonderland and one of the most magnificent buildings I have seen in my life. We also went to the Dubai Mall, the biggest shopping mall in the world which also boasts indoor 'ski'ing slopes'. Yes, snow in the desert and ski-ing! There is a fantastic dancing fountain display every 20 minutes in a man-made lake between the Dubai Mall and the Khalifah Burj from 6pm. till midnight. The older part of the city boasts a two mile long string of jewelers and gold stores. Crime is minimal because

punishment is harsh. Some very rich and famous people live here because of tax incentives and low crime. Roger Federer I am told owns a whole floor in a luxury high-rise of condos and one floor is especially designed as a gym according to his specifications. In the midst of all this, the Sikhs who now reputedly number 50,000, like other non-Islamic faiths, have been conducting their religious activities more or less clandestinely or at the least, unofficially. Christians are the exception. They do have churches, a legacy of British dominance in the past. Though temporary gurdwaras have come and gone, the community needed a permanent place of worship. The push for an official gurdwara, according to S. Keval Singh Ji, who personally supervises the construction besides Sardar Kendhari began about 27 years ago. The proposals kept getting knocked back but they did not give up. Five years ago, the Emir, after repeated submissions from S. Kendhari and his team, gave the approval subject to consent from the 'Council of Imams' which is responsible for all matters of a religious nature. Cont’d on page 21

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February 12, 2010

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Census Bureau previews Asian advertising campaign

India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: The U.S. Census Bureau and its Los Angeles regional census center has previewed the national Asian adver-

tising campaign for the 2010 Census, which seeks to boost the national mail-back participation rate by increasing awareness and educating the public about the importance of participating in the oncea-decade headcount. "One of the primary goals for our advertising and outreach cam-

paign is to increase the number of people who mail back their forms when they arrive in March," Census Bureau Director Robert M. Groves said. "For each percentage point increase in the national mail-

back response rate, the Census Bureau saves taxpayers about $80 to $90 million in costs associated with having to send census takers to non-responding households for in-person interviews." With ads produced in an unprecedented 28 languages, 13 of which are Asian-languages, the

2010 Census advertising campaign will reach the average person 42 times with messages around the

‘The 2010 Census is important, easy and safe,’ Groves said. ‘When the forms begin arriving in March, we urge everyone to take a few minutes to fill them out and mail them back’ importance of participating in the census. More than half of the budgeted advertising will be targeted

to media consumed by minority and ethnic audiences. In addition to previewing the Asian Advertising Campaign, the Census Bureau highlighted the Mobile Road Tour, which is a part of the largest civic outreach and awareness campaign in U.S. history. Lynne Choy Uyeda-Gin, media specialist for the Census Bureau in Los Angeles, said, "More than 3 million people will have the opportunity to share their photos and stories and explain why the census will make a difference in their communities. With the help of our road tour bus, nicknamed 'Confidential', our goal is to capture the changing 'Portrait of America' at our road tour stops and events." The 2010 Census is a count of

everyone living in the United States and is mandated by the U.S. Constitution. Census data are used to apportion congressional seats to states, to distribute more than $400 billion in federal funds to tribal, state and local governments each year and to make decisions about what community services to provide. The 2010 Census form will be one of the shortest in U.S. history, consisting of 10 questions, taking about 10 minutes to complete. Strict confidentiality laws protect the respondents and the information they provide. "The 2010 Census is important, easy and safe," Groves said. "When the forms begin arriving in March, we urge everyone to take a few minutes to fill them out and mail them back."

LNSO celebrates Vasant Panchmi in Fremont India Post News Service

FREMONT: The Laxmi-Narayan Dev Spiritual Organization (LNSO) affiliated with Shree Swaminarayan Temple of Vadtal (India) is successfully providing a bridge to divinity and an avenue for people to get together and celebrate various Hindu Festivals & be a part of religious discourses. 23rd January marked the first major satsang event of LNSO for 2010, very successful with over 250 participating devotees. LNSO ended the year 2009 with its biggest function on Diwali with Anakoot Prasad serving over 50 varities of delicious delicacies. Maha-prasad (food) for Vasant Panchmi celebration was sponsored by "Bhavika's Restaurant" in Sunnyvale. We would like to express our gratitude to the owners, Bhavikaben and Manojbhai Brahmbhatt. Two saints from LA, Shastri DevPrasad and Swami HariPrasad conducted the program. The Speaker amongst them was Shastri DevPrasad, he focused on teachings of "Shikshapatri" written by Lord

Swaminarayan and the significance of "Shikshapatri" - it has basis on all major authentic Hindu scriptures and is for the good of all living beings. Also the day being birthday of the highest ranking Sant Gopalanand of Swaminarayan Faith, Shastri DevPrasad also then talked about the life of respected Swami

Swaminarayan) and "Shikshapatri" - both being regarded as forms of Lord Swaminarayan. This was very well received by everyone as this was their personal connection to the event, this while Saints were chanting holy mantras. LNSO management then appealed to everyone in the congregation to donate to the wor-

The two Saints engaged all present in the congregation by arranging "Abhishek" or ceremonious pouring of warm saffron water over small metal representation of deity Gopalanand, his most significant work and his teachings to all of us (only God can be worshipped, not even a most advanced Saint like him). The two Saints engaged all present in the congregation by arranging "Abhishek" or ceremonious pouring of warm saffron water over small metal representation of deity (a "murty" or statue of Lord

thy cause of helping the victims of Haiti Earthquake. It was announced that all contributions will be donated by LNSO to the President's Haiti Relief Fund. This really appealed to the heart of devotees who then generously donated to the collection after "Aarti" prayers. Along with generous donations from LNSO Committee members, a combined check of $1001 will be presented by LNSO Committee to

the Mayor of Fremont for donation to the President's Funds. This being the start of a new year, LNSO President appealed to the devotees to renew their annual membership of $11. This was very well received by the devotees who went in significant numbers to either renew their previous year membership or join as first time members. There was a strong support from participants to LNSO Committee's publicity efforts to inform everyone on the upcoming events. These efforts include personal phone calls, phone blasts, email blasts, USPS mailings, etc. After the satsang, many devotees informed LNSO committee that they will be delighted to come to the programs such as the one on Saturday the 23rd of January and also bring their friends. We had people come from as far as Salinas to participate in this memorable event. There was remarkable cooperation between all LNSO Committee members. Even kids contributed by helping with vacuuming, collecting used dinner plates, etc. LNSO committee members served Maha-Prasad after the event to one and all.

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February 12, 2010

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Virgelia's Miss Asia USA wins trademark case India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: After five years of legal dispute the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York recently ruled in favor of Virgelia Villegas and Virgelia Productions, Inc. in

Because Miss USA chose not to appeal the Court's decision, it is now final and the ongoing legal dispute that began in 2004 is now over the trademark infringement lawsuit brought against them by Miss Universe, L.P., LLLP., owner of the MISS USA Pageant (Miss Universe, L.P., LLLP is co-owned by NBC Pageants, Inc., a wholly-

owned subsidiary of NBC Universal, Inc. and Trump Pageants, Inc.) (hereafter, "Miss USA"). Because Miss USA chose not to appeal the Court's decision, it is now final and the ongoing legal dispute that began in 2004 is now over. In response to the Court's ruling that allows registration of the "Miss Asia USA" trademark, Virgelia Villegas, Chairman and President of Virgelia Productions, said this landmark victory opens the doors to a bright future for Virgelia Productions, Inc. and the cultural pageants it produces and promotes. "Our production team, executive committee and volunteers are focusing on the upcoming Miss Asia USA and Mrs. Asia USA Cultural Pageants set forth on Saturday, August 21. We are excited about the new venue for this year's pageants, the La Mirada Civic Theater in La Mirada, California. “This modern venue offers exciting new opportunities to dazzle our audience with a new stage production and will improve the total audience experience."

CAIR to file civil rights complaint against mayor India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES, CA: The Greater Los Angeles Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-LA) has called on California religious and political leaders, particularly Republicans, to speak out in support of religious diversity after a mayor in that state used an official event to claim he is "growing a Christian community." CAIR-LA also said it will file a complaint about the mayor's remarks with the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice. In his state of the city address this week, Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris told a group of 160 people: "We're growing a Christian community, and don't let anybody shy away from that…I need (Lancaster community) standing up and saying we're a Christian community, and we're proud of that." In the same address, the mayor said he wants voters to back a ballot measure endorsing prayers at city meetings that include reference to Jesus. News reports describe Parris as a "staunch Republican." "The mayor's remarks promoting a particular faith in his official capacity at an official city event seem to violate the Establishment Clause of the U.S. Constitution.

Elected officials should not use public positions to impose their religious beliefs on others," said CAIR-LA Executive Director Hussam Ayloush. "We also call on California's religious and political leaders to repudiate the mayor's remarks because they could serve to marginalize people of other

'Coming Out' great success for LGBTIQQ community India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: The South Asian LGBTIQQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer and Questioning) community and allies recently gathered for a momentous event in the history of South Asians of Southern California. "Coming Out Coming Home II", the second event of its kind was held at the Southern California Library (SCL) in Los Angeles on Sunday January 17th. The result of a six-week writing workshop held this past September and October; the reading was inspiring and emotional. Following the success of last year's workshop and reading, Satrang sponsored this year's workshop and reading to provide members of the South Asian LGBTIQQ community a platform to share their experiences in a safe and creative environment. Satrang is Southern California's only organization working to raise awareness and provide resources for people who identify as South Asian and LGBTIQQ. Facilitated by theater artist and former Satrang Board Member, D'Lo, the workshop became a space for attendees to go deep excavating and crafting their personal stories. "Nearly all the participants came to the workshop saying they didn't know how to write," Said D'Lo, "yet what was proven on Sunday was that not only could they write beautifully, but their personal stories were intensely powerful."

faiths and Christians who value the separation of church and state." Earlier this week, CAIR-LA sent a letter to Lancaster Councilwoman Sherry Marquez asking her to meet with members of the American Muslim and interfaith communities to discuss the negative impact of inflammatory anti-Islam remarks in a recent Facebook post.

Satrang was honored to have the Southern California Library host the 2nd reading of this workshop with new participants and new stories nity makes up at least 10% of any given population, it is estimated that there are, 30,000 LGBTIQQ South Asians living in Southern California. Because of these findings, we understand that many of our community are immigrants who are closeted or in isolation. There is no place for them to be "out" and South Asian - the cultural reverence for "silence" is strong especially when it comes

to situations and subjects that could affect one's standing in either their cultural community or their employment status. "In our community, we know for a fact that many people suffer from mental health and thoughts of suicide because of the homophobia." said D'Lo, "It's sad that people don't feel that they can just be who they are and be loved by their family and community for being authentic in their identities." Satrang is a social, cultural and support organization providing a safe space to empower and advocate for the rights of the South Asian LGBTIQQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Intersex, Queer and Questioning) community in Southern California through education, networking, and outreach. Satrang envisions a world in which South Asian queer/alternative sexualities and gender identities are embraced and celebrated. Satrang was honored to have the Southern California Library host the 2nd reading of this workshop with new participants and new stories. The Southern California Library has been home to many of the rich beginnings of movements - starting with meetings, lectures, classes, and political organizing. It is dedicated to archiving the fruits of these movements - archival collections, books and periodicals, pamphlets, sound recordings, and films - that allow us to remember and cherish the history of resistance.

First ever gurdwara coming up in Dubai Cont’d from page 19

‘We also call on California's religious and political leaders to repudiate the mayor's remarks because they could serve to marginalize people of other faiths’

During this event, eight workshop participants shared their stories spanning topics from integrating their spirituality and sexuality to coming out to family members. The stories evoked tears, laughs and a standing ovation from the room full of family members, friends, partners and allies. According to the 2008 Needs Assessment Survey carried out by Satrang and the South Asian Network (SAN), there are roughly 300,000 South Asians living in Southern California. Taking into account the commonly-accepted theory that the LGBTIQQ commu-

The Sikh submissions strived to show the close proximity between Islam and Sikhism; the role played by various Muslim and Sufi saints in the developmental stage of Sikhism as a full-fledged religion including the fact that a number of Muslim 'pirs' have their hymns enshrined within the Sri Guru Granth Sahib; that Islam need not fear proselytization from Sikhs; that Sikhism like Islam believes in the one God and does not approve of idol-worship; Allah and derivations of Allah, like Allhe, Allho and so on is mentioned 46 times in our holy scriptures and Guru, the Guru Granth Sahib; and finally that Baba Nanak, the founder of Sikhism passed this way with his constant companion, a Muslim, Bhai Mardhana, on their way to 'haj' at Mecca and Medina. It was a pleasant and joyous surprise when consent was received from the Council of Imams. To add to the joy and sense of well-

being, the Emir bestowed a piece of land free of charge, for the Sikhs to build their gurdwara. So, besides Christianity, which enjoys places of their worship, due to historical ties with the land, Sikhism is the only other faith which now has official sanction to have their own official place of worship on the land - a fact, all Sikhs worldwide, should be very proud of. At the time of writing, the Dubai gurdwara named 'Guru Nanak Darbar', has reached ground level with a three storey underground car park which will accommodate up to 500 vehicles. So, the foundations have been laid for the langar hall at ground level and then, a first storey for the main diwan hall which will not have any pillars and will seat 5000. In the midst of our own 'problems' that we appear to be experiencing with our own hierarchy in Amritsar, this gurdwara is a shining example of Sikhi well-being outside Punjab, and a positive step in inter-religious harmony

The tentative official opening has been penciled in for Guru Nanak Sahib Ji's Gurpurab in November this year (2010). This will be a historic landmark for Sikhs and Sikhism and a good time to visit Dubai. Come and see the marvel of modernity; a place through which our 'Baba' (Nanak) passed through over five hundred years ago ... and good shopping for those so inclined - that is Dubai! Our group had a wonderful time in Dubai and did kirtan at the Gurpurab of Guru Gobnd Singh Ji which was celebrated on 8 January at a huge warehouse in Techno Park and 15,000 sangat turned up for the occasion. We were pleasantly surprised to be invited back for the 'opening', whenever it takes place. We are looking forward to doing kirtan in Guru Nanak Darbar on the official 'Opening'. See you there! 'Jithay jae behay mera Satguru, so thaan suhava..' (Where my 'guru' resides, that place is blessed)

Health

Line

Sixth birth-defect case found in Kettleman City

HANFORD, Calif.: The local health director says a sixth birthdefect case has been confirmed in Kettleman City, where residents are battling plans to expand California's largest hazardous-waste landfill. Keith Winkler says the county had not released information about the case because officials felt the state would eventually investigate and more cases could be revealed. Health officials had reported that five of 63 children born between September 2007 and November 2008 suffered facial defects, and three of those children later died. Last week, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger ordered two state agencies to investigate. Jared Blumenfeld, administrator for the EPA's Pacific Southwest region, plans to visit Kettleman City and talk with residents. -AP

Livingston inmates pay own medical bills LIVINGSTON, La.: Inmates in Livingston Parish will no longer receive free health care in jail. The parish president signed a new ordinance that releases the parish from paying the medical bills of prisoners. It cost the parish $370,000 to house and care for the 500 prisoners held inside the Livingston Parish Detention Center, but officials think some of the spending could be avoided. Inmates are fed three times a day and the prison has central heating and air. Taxpayers pick up the tab for keeping inmates comfortable, including medical services. -AP

Montana AIDS medication money stretched BILLINGS, Mont.: A Montana health official says the tough economy is making it difficult for people in the state with HIV or AIDS to get vital medications. Judy Nielsen is the HIV program coordinator for the state Department of Public Health and Human Services. She says 20 Montana residents are on a waiting list to receive money through the AIDS Drug Assistance Program. She says HIV/AIDS patients are asking for help to pay for drugs because of the bad economy, but the amount of money available through the federal Ryan White Act has remained the same. Medications for HIV/AIDS can cost $1,500 or more a month. -AP

Health Science 22

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February 12, 2010

Swine flu vaccines in schools to end soon WILMINGTON, Del.: Delaware health officials say swine flu vaccinations for public school students should be completed by the end of February. About 50,000 students are expected to get the vaccine through the program, which began in early November. That's about 40 percent of pupils statewide. -AP

Bill Gates all praise for Nitish Kumar, Rahul Gandhi India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Health statistics from northern India are "terrible", according to philanthropist-billionaire Bill Gates. In his 2010 Annual Letter, his second since he started writing one, Gates focuses on innovation and how it can make a difference between a bleak future and a bright one. "One particular highlight from the year came last summer, when I traveled to India to learn about innovative programs they have recently added to their health system," he writes. "The health statistics from northern India are terrible-nearly 10 percent of children there die before the age of 5. In response, the Indian government is committed to increasing its focus and spending on health." Interestingly, Gates is full of praise for Nitish Kumar, the chief minister of Bihar and Rahul Gandhi, Member of Parliament (and Congress Party President Sonia Gandhi's son), for the work they are doing to improve healthcare systems in India. "On the trip I got to talk to Nitish Kumar, the chief minister of Bihar, one of the poorest states in India, and hear about some great work he is doing to improve vaccination rates," Gates wrote. "I also got to meet with Rahul Gandhi, who is part of a new generation of political leaders focused on making sure these

Bill Gates

Nitish Kumar

Rahul Gandhi

investments are well spent. The foundation (Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation) is considering funding measurement systems to help improve these programs." Further on Rahul Gandhi, Gates says, "Rahul was very frank in saying that right now a lot of the money is not getting to the in-

and improving the delivery systems that I heard from him and other young politicians assured me that health in India will improve substantially in the decade ahead." Gates says that in India, just like everywhere else they work, the needs of the poor are greater than the resources available to help

online learning, agriculture and aid from rich countries, and in conclusion says he has decided to take the notes he makes after taking a trip, reading a book, or meeting with someone interesting and pull them together on a web site called www.gatesnotes.com. "This will let me share thoughts on foundation-related topics and other areas on a regular basis. I expect to write about tuberculosis, US state budgets, creative capitalism, and philanthropy in Asia, among other things. The trips I will document will include Nigeria, to check on the status of polio eradication; northern India, to understand more about improving vaccine coverage; and school visits in the United States." The site will complement his annual letters as well as the foundation's web site, www.gatesfoundation.org, which has a lot more information about the topics in his letter.

Gates says that in India, just like everywhere else they work, the needs of the poor are greater than the resources available to help them solve their problems tended recipients and that it won't be easy to fix. His openness was refreshing, since many politicians won't say anything that might discourage a donor from giving more. He explained how organizing local groups, primarily of women, and making sure they watch over the spending is one tactic he has seen make a big difference. The long-term commitment to measuring results

them solve their problems. "It is important to get more money, but that alone will not solve the big problems," he says. "This is why Melinda and I are such big believers in innovations that allow you to do a lot more for the same cost." Gates discusses in his letter a range of issues from childhood deaths, Malaria, polio eradication, HIV/AIDS, school education,

Knowing medical needs key in storm response FLAGSTAFF, Ariz.: In the Navajo community of Klagetoh, like others across the vast reservation, health representatives make it a point to know where all the highrisk residents live and what their medical needs are. So when wintry weather stranded hundreds of people in deep snow and mud, community members got out their maps, pointed them out and relayed critical information to those tasked with reaching such residents who topped the priority list. Without that knowledge, offi-

cials might have found themselves scrambling to locate residents in often rugged terrain where homes are typically isolated, miles apart from one another. ``It would have been devastating,'' says Flo Long, a volunteer with the Klagetoh response team. Getting to the residents was the hard part. Heavy snow and deep mud made many roads across both the Navajo and Hopi reservations that cover northeastern Arizona inaccessible. While most residents who live in the most remote areas maintain strong ties

to the land and can last days without leaving their homes, they found themselves still stuck after more than a week and unable to get to the grocery store and medical appointments. The Navajo Nation declared a state of emergency after the most powerful in a series of winter storms hit the 27,000 square-mile reservation and much of the state on Jan. 21. A federal declaration followed. Food, hay, water and coal were stockpiled at command posts across the reservation.

National Guard helicopters carried supplies from Holbrook and air dropped them to residents who stamped out ``Help'' or ``Need Food'' in the snow. Tribal members familiar with communities went along on some flights, helping to identify the homes of residents in need. ``They know the lay of the land, they know the people,'' state Department of Emergency Management spokesman Eric Neitzel said. ``Without them, we'd still be in Day 2 mode.'' Cont’d on page 23

Health Science Post

February 12, 2010

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Initiative helps diabetics learn to manage disease JACKSON, Miss.: Cynthia Bethany and Dianne Perry have battled diabetes for 20 and 25 years, respectively. The Jackson residents have learned what to do to prevent complications but admit needing help to stay on the right track. That's where Mississippi Health First Collaborative comes in. The new initiative provides state Medicare beneficiaries, ages 18-75, an opportunity to take free diabetes self-management education classes. "We're targeting Medicare only, but they (diabetics not on Medicare) still can contact us because it's a collaborative. If they're not eligible for our program, we're referring them to other programs,'' said Lisa Camel, project manager. ``It's a national program, but Mississippi is the only state that's doing it now. So it's almost like a pilot program.'' The initiative was announced in October by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. It is organized by the state office of Information and Quality Healthcare, which is one of

Medicare's Quality Improvement Organizations. Camel, who's been with IQH for 10 years, and her team of 10 project leaders, are recruiting 83 physician practices to get involved and 35 have signed on. Those physicians then refer patients to take the classes which total eight hours over a few weeks. Having physicians involved means a patient's

Jackson residents have learned what to do to prevent complications but admit needing help to stay on the right track health information can be obtained before classes and compared to their health status after completing the classes. The main focus of the initiative is to educate diabetics in their home communities in places such as community centers or senior centers, instead of hospitals or other traditional health care settings.

"Usually when a patient is first diagnosed with diabetes, they are overwhelmed and they get a limited amount of education just because they're in a facility and the doctors and nurses only have so much time,'' said project leader and registered nurse Gypsie Cannon. "This is kind of a reinforcement.'' Forty entities, including Jackson State University, Tougaloo College, churches and libraries, have signed on to be partners. Additional partnerships are being sought. "I need the reinforcement, and I need to be around other people that can lift me up that know what I'm going through,'' said Perry, 55, a retired nursing assistant. ``(People who) know what it is to want that piece of cake, ooh, that blackberry cobbler with all that butter on it. Have mercy.'' Diabetes has taken its toll on Perry's life. She's had cataract surgery, has glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy with such poor vision she can no longer drive. She has kidney failure, which requires dialysis three days a week, and congestive heart failure. -AP

Knowing medical needs key in storm response Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 22

Anyone with an immediate medical need was asked to wave a red cloth or lay down on the ground. It's a system similar to one Navajo officials have used in the past where a certain color designated the need for food, hay, water or medical assistance. Though a few calls trickle in each day from concerned family members who haven't heard from or seen loved ones, tribal officials believe most medical needs have been addressed and are transitioning to working with residents in remote areas and with livestock. Selena Manychildren, a spokeswoman for the Navajo Department of Emergency Management, said livestock owners are encouraged to find temporary shelter for their animals that can get infections spread through muddy waters. The relief effort based in Holbrook is expected to continue through the first part of the week and eventually be turned over to tribal officials. More than 36,000 meals, 30,000 gallons of water, 120 tons of coal and 5,600 blankets have been sent to the Navajo and Hopi tribes. Major roadways have been

cleared, but the lack of heavy equipment in some areas has delayed response to secondary roads. Residents are encouraged to travel early in the morning or late at night when the ground is frozen to avoid getting stuck in the mud something they're well accustomed to dealing with. Coconino County Supervisor Lena Fowler, who is Navajo, said the communities' response to the storm has been impressive. The

The relief effort based in Holbrook is expected to continue through the first part of the week health representatives do weekly, if not daily checks on residents with medical needs, working together with area hospitals. "They've been good at getting themselves ready,'' said Fowler, who aided with relief efforts in the Tuba City area. "They know where their families live, and what they've done is organize themselves at the local level and try to get to people.'' -AP

1 Noor E Khuda - My Name Is Khan

6 Phir Se - Toh Baat Pakki!

2 Taali - Veer

7 Tu Jo Jaan Le - Dulha Mil Gaya

3 Zoobi Doobi - 3 Idiots

8 Hey Ya! - Karthik Calling Karthik

4 Dil To Bachcha Hai - Ishqiya

9 Maa Tera Jaisa - Bolo Raam

5 Just Do It - Chance Pe Dance

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10 Remote Ko Baahar Phek - Rann

February 12, 2010

magine unexpectedly meeting a hardcore admirer, who proposes you to marry there and then! Well, this is what happened to our B-town's Baadshah recently, when he was in Ahmedabad, while promoting his film 'My Name Is Khan'. Shah Rukh Khan was at a promotional event in a five-star hotel, when the incident took place. A 20-yr old Tillana Desai, dressed as a bride, turned up from the crowd and insisted SRK get married to her. And our King of Hearts, in true hero style, accepted it right away! The girl is said to have even brought a ring with her. What later followed was quite a filmy scene. SRK went down on his knees and slipped the ring on her finger, saying t this was their rehearsal for the wedding. One can just imagine how ecstatic the gal would have been! Sources quoted her saying, "I will never remove the ring and I am glad that he accepted my love and admiration for him." Indeed our King Khan knows how to impress his female fans.

n the sequel of Dostana, Katrina Kaif will sport a bikini that too in two scenes. She will be seen daring it out in never-before sizzling outfits, with a complete new look. B-town's hot designer Manish Malhotra is said to be raking his brains to bring out the best for the lady in the film. Katrina has one of the best bodies in the industry and having her sport beach wear will be a huge attraction. "She hasn't sported the sexy look for a while. In 'Dostana 2', she will be seen in clothes that make her look more sexy than cute," say sources. All is fine, but we wonder what Salman Khan has to say!

his light-eyed hero would have indeed created magic in several hearts, now wait to see his real magic skills. In Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Guzaarish', Hrithik Roshan will feature as a magician for a sequence. Sources shared that Bhansali did not want Hrithik to fake the magic. Nor did he want the usual rabbit-from-the-hat kind of tricks. And to make his act look authentic, the filmmaker appointed a real jaduagar all the way from Ukraine! The Ukrainian magician had been in Mumbai for a brief spell, to work with Hrithik. He taught the actor some of the coolest tricks, never seen in these parts. This new trade seems to have made Hrithik's sons very happyâ&#x20AC;Ś These days Hrehaan and Hridhaan often enjoy their papa dearest ka jadoo at home. Besides, Hrehaan even expects his father to be the official magician of the evening on his next birthday.

Bollywood

February 12, 2010

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ossip mills are quite excited about this hot topic lately. 'Karthik Calling Karthik', featuring Farhan Akhtar and Deepika Padkone, is said to carry an intimate scene between the two. For an actor who is not usually seen on such chemistry board, Farhan is said to have prepared for the romancing beforehand. "Before shooting that intimate scene," shared Farhan, "Deepika and I spent a lot of time together so that we can create a comfort zone between us before executing that scene. Moreover, we shot the scene in the presence of people with whom we were comfortable with." The fact that he is married didn't concern Farhan, thanks to his 'understanding patni'. "It wasn't difficult as we share a great relationship with each other and she understands that it's a part of my profession. If she would not have understood that, it would have been very difficult for me to go ahead with that scene," stated Farhan. Let's wait to watch this next hot couple when 'Karthik Calling Karthik' hits the screens.

Madhavan Kareena, Shahid together! gets Freedom

t is unbelievable but true, Kareena Kapoor has finally given her nod to shoot for the music video with Shahid Kapur for the film, 'Milenge Milenge'. The film has been delayed for a long time but it is now going to hit the theatre very soon. The promotional video is said to be a sizzling number. Talking about the duo coming together, director Satish Kaushik said, "Didn't they shoot the Mauja hi Mauja item song in Jab We Met right after their split? So why wouldn't they shoot a song for a music

No 'Midnight' for

uck has favored this South Indian star who created a striking niche for himself in B-town; thanks to the well-acclaimed '3 Idiots'. R Madhavan is said to have bagged yet another project here; this time from a director who gave earlier India's first ever football-centric film 'Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal' and the suspense flick 'Chocolate'. After a considerable gap, filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri is back with a biopic film this time, titled 'Freedom'. While Madhavan will play the lead, the director revealed that he is planning to rope in another southern superstar Mohanlal for the film. Besides, this film Vivek has another project on hand, titled 12. The film is said to be based on the famous Hollywood classic '12 Angry Men'. "I am scouting for 12 talented actors from all across the country. I am planning to announce the film officially in the month of March," shared the filmmaker.

Rani

ani Mukherji is said to have pulled out of Deepa Mehta's adaptation of Salman Rushdie's novel 'Midnight's Children'. Grapevine has it that the actress called it quits after finding out she had to play the mother of a 14-year-old in the film. Mehta confirmed that Rani was indeed required to play a mother in a section of the film, but there is no kid in the film who is 14 years old. "Rani had some personal reasons for not doing the film. I cannot disclose the reasons because there are some things, which are confidential between a director and an actor. I have great regard for Rani and total respect for why she is not working with me in this film," stated the filmmaker dismissing the rumors. The film in fact was planned to release in September this year. Now, this twist in plan looks to be a delay for the director. Besides, confirmation is also due from Vidya Balan, who is supposed to feature as Rani's sister in the film.

video, especially since it's for the benefit of a film that stars the two of them? Himesh Reshammiya has recorded an outstanding track. Both Shahid and Kareena love it." Producer Boney Kapoor has also confirmed the news, "Himesh's track would entice anyone. Yes, I've asked Kareena and Shahid. I'm sure they'll do it." The film is slated for MarchApril release. Shahid and Kareena finally made up their mind that they would not mix up professional life with personal life.

Miss Asia USA contestants make a flash

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February 12, 2010

RIA PATEL

LOS ANGELES: The evening of Saturday, January 30th, hosted by Virgelia Villegas and her team at Virgelia Productions, Inc. achieved two purposes, both of which were carried out in an entertaining and professional manner. The night commenced with introducing the contestants for this year's Miss Asia USA and Mrs. Asia USA. Media and reporters present, the evening served as an opportune time to bring the spotlight to the beginning of a beautiful and cultured pageant. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 31

SRIREKHA N. CHAKRAVARTY India Post News Service

NEW YORK: 'My Name is Khan' is not a film about terrorism or racial profiling, but a dramatic love story of two people whose lives are affected by the real life incident - 9/11 -- according to the film's lead actor Shah Rukh Khan. Shah Rukh Khan and co-actor Kajol were in New York City last week to talk about the film directed by Karan Johar, which is being released worldwide on Feb 12 by Fox Searchlight. Known for their on-screen chemistry, having worked in a number of romantic films together, Shah Rukh and Kajol said the newness in their pairing in My Name is Khan is that he plays a character having Asperger's syndrome, a lesser form of autism, and Kajol plays a character that is "normal" and "not too perfect." Needless to say, Shah Rukh took the brunt of the volley of questions from the media with a bit of wit

but mostly sober responses, with Kajol peppering in with an occasional repartee. On the message of the film Shah Rukh said the events of 9/11 had changed the lives of people around the world and the film highlights the butterfly effect it has on the lives of the two lead characters.

Shah Rukh took the brunt of the volley of questions from the media with a bit of wit but mostly sober responses, with Kajol peppering in with an occasional repartee "Things happening around the world, whether taken in the context of religion or an ideology, have an effect on everyone and the bottomline is that goodness and humanity ultimately conquer," Shah Rukh explained. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 30

February 12, 2010

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February 12, 2010

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The history behind Before his untimely death he wrote her a love letter, signed with 'Your Valentine'. There fore the phrase 'Be my Valentine'. Some believe he was beheaded, others thought that he died of sickness. No one is even sure if 14 February was the day of his birth or his death or if it had indeed anything to do with Saint Valentine at all. The only thing that is for sure, is that the Romans had a tradition in the middle of February, which would mark the 14th, called the Love Lottery. It was believed that spring and with it the renewal of life came along in the middle of February, therefore the love lottery was held, coupling young men and women for one year, often leading to marriage. Valentine's Day is celebrated in the USA, Canada, Mexico, France, Australia and the United Kingdom. The oldest known Valentine's card can be viewed in the British museum. Birgit and Roger Pratcher n 14 February we celebrate Saint Valentine's Day, usually by the way of exchanging cards, sweets, lingerie, flowers or jewelry. But, what exactly are we celebrating, is it just a holiday the retail stores invented to get our money? One could think so, but no, we are actually celebrating a Christian Holiday, Saint Valentine's. We are following a Christian and ancient Roman tradition. By now the Catholic Church recognizes three Saints by the name of Valentine, or Valentinus. The first legend to the background of the celebration of Valentine's Day is this: During the 3rd century a priest by the name of Valentine, under Claudius II in Rome, secretly disobeyed the law. Claudius had come to believe that a single soldier was a better soldier than a married young man and so decided to outlaw marriage in order to have plenty young strong men with no wives at his disposal. Valentine, the priest, did not obey this law and continued to celebrate the holy bond of marriage for young couples in secrecy. Of course, the way it always works with secret clauses, he was caught and sent to his death. The second legend believes that Valentine was a prisoner who fell in love with a young woman, who came to see him often. It is believed that she was his jailors daughter.

The oldest known and remembered Valentine's poem is from Charles, Duke of Orleans to his wife, in 1415, while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London. It is part of a manuscript collection of the British Library in London Valentine's day became an official Catholic Holiday in the year 496 or 498 AD. Pope Gelasius declared the 14 February to be Saint Valentine's Day. The oldest known and remembered Valentine's poem is from Charles, Duke of Orleans to his wife, in 1415, while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London. It is part of a manuscript collection of the British Library in London. Years later King Henry V is supposed to have hired the writer John Lydgate to compose a Valentine's letter to Catherine of Kalois. In Great Britain it was around the 17th century that Valentine's Day became a celebrated Holiday. By the middle of the 18th century it was common for all social classes to

exchange small gifts or handwritten notes with lovers, loved ones and friends. By the end of the 18th century printed Valentine's cards were available. In the United States people started celebrating Valentine's Day in the early 1700's by exchanging Valentine's notes. The Greeting Card Association announced that Valentine's Day is the second best selling card-sending day with one billion cards sold per year. The leader in the card industry is with 2.6 billion, Christmas. In the year 1835 Pope Gregory XVI was so impressed by the Irish Priest Father John Spratt that he gave him the black and golden casket, which is believed to house the remains of Saint Valentine. This gift from Rome, the black and golden casket, can actually be viewed on Valentine's Day every year at Whitefriar Street Church in Dublin, Ireland.

Short film set in India nominated for Oscar India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Continuing with India related subjects making a mark at the Oscars, Kavi - a short film filmed entirely on location in India depicting modern-day slavery -- has been nominated in the Live Action Short Film category this year. Gregg Helvey, who wrote, directed and produced Kavi has already won the Student Academy Award gold medal for his short in the narrative category, in 2009. Helvey has traveled the world to film in countries such as El Salvador, China, Kenya and England on projects ranging from National Geographic and BBC1 documentaries to independent fictional films. As a filmmaker,

Helvey seeks to combine his passion for social justice with powerful story telling. Kavi was filmed entirely on location in India and tells the story

‘My goal is to reach at least 50,000 people with Kavi in the first year,’ says Helvey. ‘The purpose is to motivate action through awareness’ of a young boy who wants to play cricket and go to school, but instead he is forced to work in a brick kiln as a modern-day slave. Kavi

must either accept what he's always been told, or fight for a different life even if he's unsure of the ultimate outcome. Researching for Kavi, Helvey

wrote on his website: I was shocked to learn that 27 million people around the world are enslaved today. As I began to research and understand the extent

of modern slavery, I knew that I had to make a movie about it. People had to know. This injustice and cruelty had to stop." This 19-minute fictional film is Helvey's USC thesis film, and is the first fictional film of its kind to expose the reality of 'bonded labor,' a form of modern slavery. "My goal is to reach at least 50,000 people with Kavi in the first year," says Helvey. "The purpose is to motivate action through awareness. To such an end, I will collaborate with anti-slavery organizations that will link viewers to actual steps they can take to help end slavery. Additionally, this short film is the springboard to a feature length version for theatrical distribution."

February 12, 2010

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Cont’d from page 26

Adding to that, Kajol said, "The aim was to make an entertaining film and somewhere down the line, to show how we lose our faith in humanity and belief in the goodness of a person. I hope after 'Khan' people will somewhere believe in goodness all around them." Shah Rukh further summed the purpose of the film saying, "We don't want to sound radical; we just want to bring out the message of hope, happiness and humanity in a cool, entertaining way so it appeals to everyone." Although the title of the film carries a tagline that says, 'I'm not a terrorist', Shah Rukh clarified that it was merely an emotional tagline, used to explain the religious orientation of the protagonist. "The film is not about 9/ 11; it's just a backdrop," he reiterated. "It does not deal with terrorism though it deals with Islamic issues. We've not gone on a trip trying to tell the world that terrorism is good, bad or ugly, it's just about how two

'Its not about terrorism' people's lives are affected by it." Carrying his point further about the effects of 9/11, Shah Rukh said, "There were two demarcations in history, BC and AD. Now after 9/11 a third demarcation has emerged pre and post 9/11. And it's important that we don't succumb to the negatives of 9/11; we need to still

exactly the same way about 9/11," he said. "I don't think anyone has a closer or farther view of it or about terrorism. I think all of us have the same point of view about terrorism." On his research on Asperger's Syndrome To play the character of Rizvan

‘We don't want to sound radical; we just want to bring out the message of hope, happiness and humanity in a cool, entertaining way so it appeals to everyone’ look at it positively." The American actors in the film, many of who were "brilliant and outstanding", Shah Rukh said were very agreeable with the film's interpretation of 9/11. "People whether in the western world or eastern world feel

Khan, who is afflicted with Asperger's syndrome, Shah Rukh said he had read several books written by persons with Aspergers and also watched documentaries and even spent some time with a couple who were

dealing with the disease. "Having studied all that, I took a little liberty and amalgamated different traits in a way that would not disrespect people with the disorder. I did a lot of work on my physicality, the eyes, tilt of the neck and so on." Shah Rukh said he had always been interested in understanding neuro- atypical behavior not only as an actor but also personally. "I am very intrigued how a different mind thinks. When we see a person with a challenge and think of him as abnormal, I wonder if he thinks of us as abnormal-- that intrigues me." Shah Rukh said he had done a lot of work with autistic children during his theater days when he was younger. Also, he said, a few years back, he had read a book called 'The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Middle of the Nighttime' which was about an autistic kid and had given the book to Karan Johar. "I was so moved by that novel, I had told Karan he should make a film about that kid… three years later, Karan decided I would be that kid," he said. On his detention at Newark Airport Asked if he drew parallels to what his character in the film endures of racial profiling and his own real life experience of being detained at Newark airport in New Jersey on his last visit to the US, Shah Rukh said, "I am detained at airports every time, its not a new thing for me. I have been detained at least 25 times, not only in America, (but) in England and France too. I accept it the way one should when visiting a different country with different rules and culture; and if I decide to come to that country, I have to follow those rules. So I embrace it; my two kids - one is 12 and the other 9 -- are always stopped by the (airport) security." It was just that the detention at Newark on that particular visit had been out of proportion, which prompted him to call the Indian Consulate, he said. "Personally, it's (airport security checks in the US) a bit of a drag," he added on a lighter note. "Now even for domestic flights in America you have to go two or two-and-half hours early, you have to wear clean socks because they make you remove your shoes." Bringing the subject back to the film, Shah Rukh said the issue "we are dealing with in it is much larger than just a detention at an airport…" Incidentally, he said that the incident of his detention being dubbed by people as a publicity stunt, was "really lowdown and cheap." On the controversy over his IPL comments Responding to a question on the controversy in India over his remarks that Pakistani cricketers should have been selected in the

IPL auction, Shah Rukh, who is also co-owner of Kolkata Knight Riders, said he stood by his views. Activists of the Shiv Sena burnt posters of his new film and threatened that he would face consequences, if he hired Pakistani players in his team. "Whatever I said was in my capacity as an Indian," he said. "Every Indian says that our country is good and that everyone is welcome in our country… it has been ingrained in all of us that we should be welcoming of our guests. Every other country is facing some kind of trouble on its borders, but that should not be made an excuse to teach our kids to hate others that X is wrong, Y is bad or Z is dirty." Shah Rukh further said that if some people were upset over his views, it makes him sad and depressed. "But I do not regret what I said. I think every Indian will believe the same thing and I stand by my belief that this is unhealthy, undemocratic and insensitive." Shah Rukh added that he was not a "big person" nor a politician or a radical and that whatever he says should not be given so much importance. "I say many things that should not be paid attention to; if people have an issue with it, I feel very sad and depressed, but I can't do much about it, I can only stand by what I say." Can 'Khan' beat 'Slumdog'? Asked if My Name is Khan would outdo Slumdog Millionaire, Shah Rukh said he would "love for it to be bigger than Slumdog…". "Slumdog… was more a worldwide phenomena than a film, so you cannot compare," he said. "This

‘I have been detained at least 25 times, not only in America, (but) in England and France too’ film (Khan) has enough to hold all kinds of audiences - it deals with western world and Islam, and has the best distribution network (Fox), the best of cast and crew and a universal subject that will touch more people in the western and eastern world than any other Hindi film has done before." On his Twittering Introduced to Twitter by friend Karan Johar, Shah Rukh said he was now hooked to the networking site. "The only thing that humbles me in life - otherwise I am a pompous, arrogant, self-centered kind of guy - is how can people like me so much. I can't imagine that people who don't know me care about me so much; it's very selfless. So once people started writing to me, I could not stop replying. Like an owl I keep awake at nights and use Twitter as chat."

February 12, 2010

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Miss Asia USA contestants Shah Rukh, Kajol ring Nasdaq opening bell make a flash NEW YORK: India's leading actors Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, who are on a promotional tour in the US for their latest film My Name is Khan, had the distinct privilege of becoming the first Indian actors to be invited by the Nasdaq stock exchange to ring their opening bell on Feb 1, in New York City.

is Khan worldwide on February 12. At a press conference later that day, Khan said, "it was fun" ringing the opening bell at Nasdaq. "I've never been to a stock exchange before," he said. "It was fun; not scary, tense and sad like I thought stock exchanges would be." Khan said he had seen the landmark Nasdaq Market Site in Times Square in various Hollywood movies and have always

The acting duo opened the market when they rang in the first trading day of February at 9.30 am. This prestigious event is usually reserved for CEOs of major corporations and is broadcast live on many television networks across the globe. Khan and Kajol were accompanied by executives of Fox Searchlight, which is releasing My Name

been intrigued about the people featured on the building's giant screen. "So it was nice to ourselves and our film on that screen today. It was very humbling," he said speaking for himself and coactor Kajol. With over 3,700 companies listed, the NASDAQ has more trading volume than any other stock market in the world.

SRIREKHA N. CHAKRAVARTY

Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 26

Secondly, the night aimed to celebrate the end to a five year long legal dispute, when the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York recently ruled in favor of Virgelia Villegas and Virgelia Productions, Inc. in the trademark infringement lawsuit

night by taking the stage and introducing the Miss USA representatives from Vietnam, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, Japan, Philippines, and Iran. Some participants, such as Miss Sri Lanka and Miss Vietnam, shared that this was their first year getting involved with such a pageant, but that the journey had been

Virgelia Villegas with contestants -Pic JS Bedi

brought against them by Miss Universe, L.P., LLLP., owner of the Miss USA Pageant, according to a press release on behalf of Virgelia Productions, Inc. The informal gathering began as delegates from several news organizations mingled with each other and the hostess. The New India Grill in Westwood, CA served as an excellent location for the occasion, as guests found the full course Indian dinner, from mouthwatering appetizers to exquisite desserts, rather enjoyable. Virgelia Villegas opened the

exciting and thrilling thus far. In a one-on-one interview, Miss Iran expressed her interest in bringing awareness to the history of the people of Iran and how their culture remains within the United States today. It was quite refreshing to see such a passionate response from one eager to communicate the account of her country. To date, Miss Sri Lanka is the only candidate representing the Indian subcontinent. While guests enjoyed a hot Indian dinner, the night switched gears into a more professional set-

ting and focused on calling attention to Virgelia's recent victory. As cited in the aforementioned press release, Virgelia offered this to the public, "I am overwhelmed by both a sense of relief and excitement. Throughout this ordeal, I have been on an emotional rollercoaster, but I never wavered in my commitment to produce our cultural pageants to continue promoting culture and unity among all the Asian communities. My faith and determination sustained me as we continued year after year to fight for the right to showcase the beauty and rich traditions of the Asian cultures represented in our cultural pageants. My faith, passion and determination provided the strength and resolve to face Miss USA's daunting legal onslaughtâ&#x20AC;Ś Now that the lawsuit is over, I promise to keep working each day to improve the pageants and bring our annual celebrations of Asian cultures to larger and larger audiences so that we can continue to pursue our goal of unifying the Asian communities by sharing their rich heritage and traditions." The well-transitioned evening left those in attendance pleased with the information and festivities of the night. The Miss Asia USA 2010 pageant is sure to be a success with Villegas' creative and inspirational team making the show better with every year!

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Painting competition for youth in memory of Gandhi VINOD DHAWAN India Post News Service

NEW DELHI: India-born and Montreal-based Suraj Sadan has made a name as an outstanding portrait painter. He has painted a number of national and international leaders but Mahatma Gandhi has been his favorite subject, whom he had the great privilege of meeting in 1947, in a postpartition refugee centre at

Kingsway camp in Delhi. The philosophy and message of Mahatma Gandhi has perme-

wide of his paintings of the champion of peace. During the Gandhi centenary in 1969 a special exhi-

Mahatma Gandhi has been his favorite subject, whom he had the great privilege of meeting in 1947, in a post-partition refugee centre at Kingsway camp in Delhi ated the whole of Mr Sadan's life, thoughts and action evident in numerous exhibitions world-

bition was held in Paris of his drawings and paintings of Mahatma Gandhi. He also designed

The award ceremony at the Montreal City Hall on October 2, 2008, the date of Mahatma Gandhi's birthday which symbolizes the Inter National Day of Non-Violence as declared by the United Nations

stamps for the Indian Government issued during the centenary year the UNESCO magazine of October 1969. The appeal of Sadan's paintings is international. His work is on display in public and in private collections all over the world including the World Health Organization, UNESCO, The National Academy of Art and the Parliament of Canada.

This year the Contest goes international with entries being promised from Delhi, Paris and an invitation to American youth to participate. The competition is called: Art Contest -Exhibition 2010 and is open to youth between ages of 14 to 20. The subject is "Draw a picture on the theme of Non-Violence." To make it simpler, Sadan says, "The Non-Violence theme includes friend-

This year the Contest goes international with entries being promised from Delhi, Paris and an invitation to American youth to participate. The competition is called: Art Contest Exhibition 2010 and is open to youth between ages of 14 to 20 Now, inspired by the words of ship, peace, love for nature, love for Gandhi, he wants to promote animals, care for elderly people, ennon-violence and peace among vironment protection etc." There are three first prizes of the youth. On a visit to New Delhi to exhibit his paintings, Sadan pointed to a quotation of Gandhi displayed prominently on a table: "If we are to teach real peace in this world and if are to carry on a real war against war we shall have to begin with the children." As President of the Mahatma Gandhi InternaSuraj Sadan with his painting of Gandhi tional Foundation Sadan has been organizing Exhibition-Contest of $100 each and three second prizes drawings and paintings for the of $50 each. The size of the painting should youth on the theme of Non-Violence and Peace in Montreal for be 16 inches x 20 inches on art pathe last two years during Gandhi's per. Last date for submission is July 1st, 2010. The entries should birthday week in October. At the awards function last year, be sent to the Mahatma Gandhi the young artists were received by International Foundation, 10463 Canada's Minister of Culture, Com- Saint-Hubert, Montreal, Canada, munications and Feminine Condi- H2C2H8. Ph: 514-3856617 Email: sadans@videotrou.ca tion, Ms. Christine Saint-Pierre.

February 12, 2010

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Aapka Colors launched in US

Amitabh Bachchan at the Colors function India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Viacom 18, in association with Dish Network, launched it's flagship Indian general entertainment channel 'Aapka Colors' on Jan 27, at a colorful event held at the Marriot Marquis in New York City. The event was attended by members of the media and celebrities including actor Samrat Chakrabarti, Daily Show's Aasif Mandvi, Hollywood actress Margaret Baker amongst others. The new entertainment channel of Viacom 18 Media Pvt. Ltd -- an equal joint venture between Viacom Inc. and Network18, one of India's leading entertainment conglomerates -- is being distributed exclusively through Dish Network. Aapka Colors aims to entertain the widespread South Asian community residing in the US with its unique blend of entertainment through scripted series, reality

shows, game shows and blockbuster Bollywood films. Present at the event were Haresh Chawla, Group CEO Viacom18 & Network18, Chris Kuelling, vice president of International Programming for Dish Network; and Rajesh Kamat, Group COO - Viacom18 & CEO Colors and Bob Bakish - President, MTV Networks International. The colorful night was made memorable by the host of the evening Pooja Kumar, actress and winner of Screen Actors Guild Emerging Actress Award for the movie Flavor and some very talented dancers from the Shakthi Dance Academy performed the Liquid Dance, unveiling the 'Aapka Colors logo. Making a special appearance at the event were the channel's flagship show Balika Vadhu's lead artists Anandi (Avika Gor) and Jagdish (Avinash Mukherjee). Avika Gor, in character, was brought on stage towards a waiting Avinash, also in character, in a palanquin. Both the actors showcased their talent by enacting a small scene from their acclaimed drama Balika Vadhu. Introducing the channel to his fans in the US, Brand Ambassador for Aapka Colors actor Amitabh Bachchan said, "Though my association with the Indian channel began recently with one of its most successful shows in recent times - Bigg Boss Season 3 -- I've been watching it for over a year. Now, by taking on the responsibility of being its brand ambassador, I feel honored in being able to partner with a media channel that has been a conduit of so-

iPhone goes Bollywood India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The Indian Film Company and Studio 18 have tied up with Zentity s.r.o., the makers of popular iPhone game Touch Carrom, to promote their upcoming release, 'Striker'. Touch Carrom brings the favorite Indian carrom board game to the iPhone and iPod Touch. Touchbased game controls give the players very realistic game play. Lead actor of 'Striker', Siddharth (of Rang De Basanti fame), is a young carrom champ who is forced to give up the game to pursue other ambitions abroad. Destiny and circumstances bring him back to the game to earn money. Commented Hemant Bhardwaj, SVP, Intl. Business, Studio18, said, "Looking for innovative and high impact ideas to create interest

around our movies, TouchCarom perfectly fit the bill for Striker." Zentity has released a special Striker Edition of Touch Carrom, which is a special free update to Touch Carrom available worldwide through Apple's App Store in iTunes, iPhone or iPod Touch. Abhishek Balaria, Founder, Zentity s.r.o said, "This is an exciting partnership, which helps us to bring a world class gaming experience to traditional Indian games. This is the first integrated movie and gaming experience and we believe that it will be an important trend. Studio 18 are truly an innovative partner to work with." Striker is directed by Chandan Arora and is releasing in Indian theaters on Feb 5. It has already created history by becoming the first Indian feature to premiere internationally on YouTube.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I feel honored in being able to partner with a media channel that has been a conduit of social changeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cial change while churning out excellent quality entertainment. I am sure, Aapka Colors, with its myriad

hues of entertainment, will spread its magic in the United States as well, as it did in India." Speaking about the launch, Haresh Chawla said, "Over the last 18 months, Colors has risen to become the No. 1 rated general entertainment channel in India. The launch of Aapka Colors in the US is part of Viacom18's aggressive growth plans to extend this successful franchise of our flagship brand outside India."

Commenting on the partnership with Viacom18, Chris Kuelling said, "With the addition of Aapka Colors to our platform of high value Hindi channels, our viewers are assured of watching all the top rated TV programs from India. Dish Network has led international programming innovation for the US based South Asian community since 1998. The launch of Aapka Colors on Dish Network is another significant step in our evolution of providing market leading programming for the aware and connected Indian consumer in the United States."

34 India Post

Darjeeling Himalayan Rai

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The snow capped Everest, Kabru, Kanchenjunga, Jannu and other peaks slowly emerge from slumber to start a new day. The sun worshippers gasp at the magnificent sight

Darjeeling War Memorial

arjeeling in India owes’ its grandeur to its natural beauty, its clean fresh mountain air and above all, the smiling resilient people for whom it is a home. Known for its natural splendor, Darjeeling’s best gift to it’s’ visitors is the dawn of a new day. The mountains awaken first with a tentative peeking of the sun. A steep ride, five kilometers from Ghoom, or an invigorating walk up a steep incline, leads sun worshippers to Tiger Hill. The air is chilly with darkness and damp. To the east, a dull orange sun emerged painting the sky with brilliant strokes of magenta, gold, orange and fuchsia. The snow capped Everest, Kabru, Kanchenjunga, Jannu and other peaks slowly emerge from slumber to start a new day. The sun worshippers gasp at the magnificent sight.

February 12, 2010 As the fog lifts in the slowly penetrating sun, the town gradually comes alive. Amidst brewing of tea, the singsong Gorkhali which is the local dialect, rises and falls like music. Best time to visit: The best time to visit Darjeeling in India is from March-May or September-November. The rains which start by May end are heavy downpours making living conditions cold and dreary. In winter there is a drastic fall in temperature from the summer’s 15 to 25 degrees centigrade to 2 to 10 degrees in winter. Tourist attractions: No visit to Darjeeling in India is complete without a visit to Ghoom which is 6 km away from the main town. The hillock is dominated by the famous Yiga Choeling Monastery which has 15 images of the Maitreya Buddha. Belonging to the yellow hat sect, the monastery contains many ancient palm leaf and paper manuscripts in Tibetan script. The Museum of Natural History is where one can see a fine collection of Himalayan animals, reptiles, birds and insects. If flora is what one enjoys, then Llyod Botanic Garden is the place of interest. It has a marvelous collection of alpine flora and orchids. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park is the only center in India for the breeding of the rare snow leopard. The Ussurian tigers and the Himalayan black bear are also among its attractions. Cont’d on page 37

February 12, 2010

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Infrastructure blamed for poor business travel in India India Post News Service

NEW DELHI: CII and SATTE joined hands to organize India Business Travel Conference as a companion event of SATTE 2010 held at Pragati Maidan. The aim was to create new stimulus in the travel and tourism business by synergizing their efforts to bring great incremental value for Indian Business Travel industry. The report brought out by CII KPMG highlighted that the Business Travel spends in India is much lower than the average global spending and accounts for only 0.96 % of the Global Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) market. The year 2009 has been a tough year for the travel industry and it plummeted by nearly 15 %. With reduced budget, business travelers started looking for lower fares, budget hotels and to control the number of trips it resorted to virtual alternatives like video conferencing. It also outlined the challenges impeding growth of business travel in India which included poor urban infrastructure, inadequate facilities for development of MICE, Expensive hotels and flights, shortage of trained manpower. It gave the industry road map to realize the latent potential offered by the business travel opportunity in India which included long term vi-

sion for urban infrastructure Development, connectivity, need for streamlining lengthy visa processing and the need for proactive and systematic marketing of India as a business travel destination. In his welcome address, Ankur Bhatia, Past Chairman, CII Delhi

Business Travel spends in India is much lower than the average global spending and accounts for only 0.96 % of the Global Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) market State Council & MD, Managing Director, Amadeus India Pvt Ltd spoke on the future of Corporate Travel and highlighted the needs of the new age business traveler, role of technology and the innovation which is driving the business travel to new scales across the globe. Jyotsna Suri, Chairperson & MD of The Lalit Suri Group, in her theme address mentioned that India as a country is not geared for

business travel, particularly MICE travel as the infrastructure is not up to mark. The panel on "Price Vs Value maintaining a balance in the current environment" constituted of key travel managers from corporate as well as representatives from supplier side. This Panel discussion was moderated by Dinesh Chauhan, Ex Asia Pacific Head of Philips had an open and constructive discussion on the topic so as to provide all participants an overview of the emerging trends in travel buying and expense management, corresponding strategies, best practices and key takeaways to manage an effective and efficient travel program. The panelists which included Kala Rayaprolu, Executive Manager Travel & Related Services, Deloitte Consulting India Pvt. Ltd., Swati Bhatia, Head Products, Amadeus India Pvt. Ltd, Sanjoy Pasricha, V P, Sales & Marketing, The Leela Palaces, Hotels & Resorts, Suresh Makhija, Director, Program Management, Carlson Wagonlit Travel, Sanjay Pai - General Manager and Head Corporate Travel, Reliance Industries Limited concluded that while there were cost pressures, value was the prime driver of their travel program. The second Panel was on MICE Boom - Are We Ready? Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 36

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February 12, 2010

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Boost for Nepal's tourism sector KATHMANDU: International visitors to Nepal grew significantly amid efforts by the coalition government to boost the tourism sector, which is still reeling from a decadelong civil war that came to an end in 2006. Tourists coming to Nepal by air rose by 18.8 percent in January as compared to the corresponding month last year, with the arrival of Indian visitors registering a 9.9 percent growth.

According to Nepal Tourism board, some 26,071 visitors arrived by air in the country in January. Altogether 5,836 Indian tourists arrived in Nepal by air in January, up from last year's 5,309. Indian tourists constitute a major part of international visitors to Nepal, showing a growth of 9.9 percent. In the SAARC region, arrivals from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka regis-

tered growth by 43.3 percent, 37.3 percent and 9.9 percent respectively. In aggregate, the South Asian segment registered a growth of 15.6 percent. Arrivals from other parts of Asia also recorded growth in aggregate. Visitor arrivals from Japan, Malaysia and South Korea have registered a positive growth by 19.5 percent, 57.2 percent and 87.2 percent re-

spectively. Nepal has enjoyed a sustained growth in the visitor arrivals since June 2009 and the trend continues in the New Year, Nepal Tourism Board said in its report. The country is observing Nepal Tourism Year in 2011 in a bid to attract one million tourists, more than double of last year's arrival figure. -PTI

Infrastructure blamed for poor business travel in India Cont’d from page 35

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The Session was moderated by Ashok Fenn, Corporate Advisor, Interglobe and the panelists at this session included Praveen Gandhi - Chief Executive Officer, CWT India, Sanjay Pai - General Manager and Head Corporate Travel, Reliance Industries Limited, Bharat Raheja, Director of International Sales - India, Hilton Hotels & Kapil Kumria, Managing Director & CEO, Corporate Flyers Pvt. Ltd. This well balanced panel highlighted the challenges faced in consolidating & growing this segment of the travel. It was recognized that India currently attracts a very negligible share of US 300 billion dollars global MICE market. Limitations of infrastructure such as convention & meeting centers, hotels and

It was believed that both private and public partnership is required to get India its fair share of this very lucrative tourism segment high cost of travel are largely responsible for this situation. It was believed that both private and public partnership is required to get India its fair share of this very lucrative tourism segment. In terms of domestic and outbound MICE, it was felt that corporate buyers have an opportunity to structure their MICE programs on a timely basis if they are to reap full benefits towards motivation and enhanced productivity of employees, as well as recognition & high sales from channel partners. Similarly suppliers and travel agents can better leverage the MICE opportunity with specialist staff and MICE focused offerings All participants agreed that while all segments of the value chain are not ready there is an immense opportunity to quickly come up to speed and extract value for all stake holders.

February 12, 2010

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Darjeeling: Magnificent view of Everest, Kabru, Kanchenjunga Cont’d from page 34

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Neighboring the zoo is the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute established in 1954 by the then Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, in the wake of the conquest of Everest. Tenzing Norgay was its first Director and Advisor till his demise. A kilometer from the zoo is the Darjeeling-Rangit Valley ropeway. Considered the longest in Asia, it is a thrilling ride with splendid views. If one is looking for souvenirs, then head to the Tibetan Refugee Self Help Center which produces excellent Tibetan crafts like carpets, wood and leather work. Established in 1959 after the Dalai Lama and his followers fled Tibet, it is a haven for ethnic Tibetan art. Places around Kalimpong: Across the river Teesta lies lush Kalimpong. The road weaves lazily up a steep incline to suddenly open up to an unexpected panorama. The first sight to greet the eye is the steeple of the Mac Farlane Church. Once the headquarters of a Bhutanese Governor, the word kalim means king’s minister and pong, the stronghold. It is also called Kalimpong or the black spur by the locals. However, the meaning that is popularly accepted is the Lepcha translation of the name which is “the ridge where we play” as the local tribesmen used to organize field sports here. At an altitude of 1250 meters, it has an area just 3.5 square miles with an approximate population of 40,000. Its rolling meadows are as yet untouched by tourism. Prominent amongst the places of interest is a school, Dr. Graham’s Homes which was founded by Dr. John Anderson Graham in 1900. This has been built on the slopes of

Delo Hill, three kilometers from the town. For a bird’s eye view of the picturesque place, one has to go to Durpin Dara, an observatory point atop a hill from where one can get an awe-inspiring view of the mighty Himalayan ranges. Numerous monasteries dot the area among which the Pedong monastery and Thongsha Gompa are the oldest. Another monastery of interest is the Tharpa Choling Monastery constructed in 1937 by the Yel-

tranquility. At an altitude of 1967 meters, the climate is cool and temperate. The Sumendu Lake at the bottom of Mirik Spur is the most dominating feature reflecting the magnificence of the eastern Himalayas. The lake is 1.2 kilometers long and is fed by perennial streams. Riding on the colorful boats or crossing the lake over an artistic bridge, leads one to a charming path through forests on the other side. Fishing is a popular past time here.

The visit to Kalimpong won’t be complete unless one spends several hours at the two bazaars. One on the main road, the other near 10th mile. It is a unique experience to see villagers turning up in their local costume at the bazaar on weekly market days to sell their farm products low Hat sect which is situated at Tirpai Hill at a distance of two kilometers from town. About 4 km from town towards Teesta is located Kalimpong’s famous Swiss Welfare Dairy. It was set up many years ago by a Swiss missionary, father Andrea Butty. Cheese, butter and other dairy products of this center are in great demand and the quality is comparable to the finest that is imported. The visit to Kalimpong won’t be complete unless one spends several hours at the two bazaars. One on the main road, the other near 10th mile. It is a unique experience to see villagers turning up in their local costume at the bazaar on weekly market days to sell their farm products. Mirik - Set in idyllic surroundings, Mirik is the place for those seeking peace and

Mirik is also almost completely surrounded by some of the best tea gardens of the region. It is also the largest producer of oranges in West Bengal. The orchards are on a spur two kilometers from Mirik. Tourist cottage constructed from locally available material have been constructed in the dense forest and provide all modern facilities for a comfortable sojourn. The DGHC Tourism (Tourism Deptt. of the Darjeeling Gurkha Hill Council) organizes conducted luxury coach tours from Darjeeling to Mirik and back on the same day during the tourist

season. Trekking tracks: Darjeeling in India was the first hill region where organized trekking was first conducted by Dr. Hooker in the 1840s. The breathtaking panoramic views of Everest and Kanchenjunga have been alluring thousands of nature lovers from different parts of the world since then. Treks in this region are organized through both high and low altitude areas. The most popular of treks is the one through high altitude areas across the Singalila range in Darjeeling. The trek starts at Maneybhanjang (2134 m), goes to Meghma (2900 m), Toughu (3070 m), Gairibas (2621 m), Sandakphu (3636 m), and Phalut (3600m).The fourth and last day is the return trek to Darjeeling which may be taken along the along the same route or via Ramman, Rimbick and Bijanbari. The best time of the year to undertake trek in Darjeeling in India is April-May and October-November. It is advisable to carry one’s own provisions. Trekking equipment can be hired at nominal charges from the Youth Hostel, as well as some travel agencies. How to reach Air- There are flights from Calcutta to Bagdogra which is 90 kilometers from south. Rail - The nearest railhead is Siliguri. The Toy train runs from New Jalpaiguri/Siliguri. Road - Tourist vehicles are available for local transportation and also for intercity drives.

February 12, 2010

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Horoscope

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February 12, 2010

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ARIES Mar 21-Apr 20 You will be negotiating with a known company and assurance is only a few days away. Trip will bring instant rewards. You will also gain friendship of an interesting personality. Avoid unnecessary stress and eat at regular intervals. There will be major changes in career soon. Planets will bend your mind and you will become more religious.

LEO Jul 23-Aug 22 You will accept the challenge and go for the opportunity to prove your expertise. Money will come but will be hard to preserve. Search will be over and you will find nice and compatible company. Self employed people will sit down and reevaluate the situation and make drastic changes in their business strategy.

SAGITTARIUS

February 12 to February 18

Nov 23-Dec 22 You will have many reasons to celebrate. You will be rewarded for past performance now. You will be paying many bills and even write a check to government. You may also visit a holy place with family and get some special prayers done. Money anticipated will get delayed for another week, but its coming. You will become very diplomatic.

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TAURUS Apr 21-May 20 You will try to reorganize things and yourself in a short time. Contract you had been working on will be in your lap soon. An old health issue will flare up again but you will be able to avert that surgery. Spouse will be shopping in big way and may buy few unnecessary items too. A new associate will be friendly and will take the pressure off too.

VIRGO Aug 23-Sept 22 It will be better to put off all major financial decisions for another week or even month. You will be in constant touch with people overseas and try to resolve an important issue. Home may need minor repairs or you may need to change some heavy electric gadget in the house. You will attend an important meeting or go for an phone interview.

CAPRICORN Dec 23-Jan 19 You have some real easy money now and for next few weeks. Uncertainty developed recently will disappear and you will get the correct picture. All government related matters should be handled carefully or will be penalized soon. You may become slightly double minded about a relationship. You will travel to a nice area to meet someone.

GEMINI May 21-Jun 20 You may not get the support you were expecting all the times. Avoid all arguments and try to solve issues one at a time. Legal matters will get postponed for another date. Some of you will be taking a trip far away from home this week. Timely actions could save you from many complications. An old friend will call and invite for a small party.

LIBRA Sept 23-Oct 22 Only aggressive attitude and positive thinking can get the results, wait and patience will not help now. You will be exploring new ways to improve revenue. You will be invited to an upcoming party at a friend's house. You may delay your plans to by a property for the time being only. You may visit an government office for some work.

AQUARIUS Jan 20-Feb 18 Strong Venus in first will create protection and neutralize all negative energy coming towards you. Try to recognize enemy among friends. You will be offered a very lucrative deal by someone you know for long. You will be looking for ideal partners to invest in your idea. It will be a fruitful week and you will get many things out of your way.

CANCER Jun 21-Jul 22 Spouse will stay nervous and tense. You will sincerely make the efforts to help the situation but may not succeed right away. Old bills will drain you out but you will be able to fulfill your commitments and even make full payments on all. Something major is brewing up as far as career is concerned; it's a matter of little patience only.

SCORPIO Oct 23-Nov 22 Major improvements in career just around the corner. Don't be shaky as the events will take place at lightning speed. People will benefit from your advice and expertise and you will get a needy person out of a messy situation. You will be paying off several bills in full. Your hard work and all efforts will bring instant fruitful results.

PISCES Feb 19-Mar 20 You will be relaxed and feel motivated. Answer will come in positive only and soon you will have the money to play with. You will learn from competition and change your strategy little bit. Push yourself a little harder and you will make it impossible for others to ignore your abilities and talents. You will visit an old friend this weekend.

February 12, 2010

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India Post 41

Tech News Sony's first 3D Outside Broadcast trucks

TechBiz

ith the creation of its first 3D Outside Broadcast (OB) truck, Sony Professional Europe, the vertical of Sony that caters to the broadcast industry in the European region, has confirmed that BSkyB would be deploying these 3D OB trucks. In a press statement released by Sony Europe it says that company has bagged orders from BSkyB (Sky) and Telegenic to design and build one of the world's first 3D Outside Broadcast (OB) trucks, due for delivery in April 2010. The three-dimensional technology is catching up rapidly. BSkyB plans to launch its first, and also Europe's first, 3D TV channel. The European company also conducted test runs with the live broadcast of soccer matches.

ZyXEL brings new Wireless N Home Router

yXEL Communications has in troduced a new Wireless N Home Router 300 Mbps - NBG 419N, delivering superior performance capability. This new offering by ZyXEL is equipped with User Experiences on Network Gaming and Multimedia Streaming, Easy Mode and Expert Mode for Quick Navigation and Setup. A device that has been devised keeping in mind the green factor, the NBG 419N has wireless control for energy savings and WiFi protected set-up. ZyXEL NBG 419N Wireless Router compliant with 802.11n technology is six times faster than the standard 802.11g networks.

New online solutions from Reuters & News Distribution

euters, the world's largest in ternational multimedia news provider, has partnered with News Distribution Network in order to provide solutions for the online news industry thus enabling them to explore new streams of revenues and an alternative to the US newsaper industry. The two entities would be releasing a video solution for newspaper, magazine, and radio outlets, which is built around an advertising-based revenue share model. This new offering delivers licensed, professional video across top-level categories including news, business, sports, entertainment and lifestyle.

42 India Post

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Tratec - foremost 'Special Trailer' manufacturer Details on page 44

February 12, 2010

India, China steal the show at Davos meet DAVOS: Curtains came down on the WEF meeting after five days of intense debate on rebuilding the global economy by world leaders and corporate honchos. About 2,500 participants, including CEOs of almost all the Fortune 1,000 companies, and government heads discussed and brainstormed the future of the global economy after its worst recession since the World War II. The 95-member strong Indian delegation at the centrally- heated Congress Centre, nestled in the snow-laden Alps, included Road Transport Minister Kamal Nath, Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma and Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia. Captains of Indian industry Vijay Mallaya, Rahul Bajaj, K P Singh, Chanda Kochhar, O P Bhatt, Sunil Bharti Mittal and Anand Mahindra spoke on how the emerging economies put up a better show, while the rich countries crumbled under the weight of the financial meltdown. "India is now being seen as a land of opportunities. There is an interest in India. India's growth drivers are really more fundamental and advantageous (than in the

Founder of the World Economic Forum Klaus Schwab making a closing speech at the World Economic Forum.

rich nations)," said ICICI Bank's MD & CEO Chanda Kochhar.

to Asia, the developed world unlikely to take it lying down. "They

Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia expressed confidence that in the years to come India could emerge as the fastest growing economy in the world Even when there was a strong acceptance that the future belongs

(the West) are not at peace with the idea that they are not going to

grow," while India and China continue to expand, Jamshed Godrej, said. Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia expressed confidence that in the years to come India could emerge as the fastest growing economy in the world, beating China as the nation has yet to achieve its full growth potential. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 43

SET Asia appoints new Business Head India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Sony Entertainment Television Asia (SET Asia) has appointed Jaideep Janakiram as the Vice President International Business & Head of Operations for North America. Janakiram, who has an M.S. in Media Management and a Master's degree in Communication and Journalism, is joining SET Asia's ranks effective immediately, and will oversee strategy, business operations and new business development in the US and Canada. With the new hire, SET Asia is

planning on embarking on new ventures, and to explore new avenues of expansion in North America. As the new VP of International Business & Head of Op-

opportunities for SET Asia. "I am so pleased that Jaideep has joined the Sony Family. He brings a wealth of experience and professional excellence, and his

Janakiram, who has an M.S. in Media Management and a Master's degree in Communication and Journalism, is joining SET Asia's ranks effective immediately erations for North America, Janakiram will be leading negotiations with television platforms and seek out investment and alliance

ethics are highly regarded in our industry. He will be joining my senior management team not only growing business in North

America, but also helping us build a strategy to develop globally," said Rajan Singh, Executive Vice President, Sony Entertainment Network. "I am very excited for this opportunity to lead Sony TV's business in North America, and to build further on a firm foundation that is already in place. In addition to strengthening and growing existing business models, as part of the strategy team, I look forward to contribute towards paradigm changes and new growth avenues that are imminent in the winds of change affecting our industry today," added Janakiram.

TechBiz Post

February 12, 2010

India Post

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British consortium to build Indian highways LONDON: In a major move, a group of three British construction companies have set up a consortium to build roads and highways in India as New Delhi is currently embarking on a massive road construction program, Road Transport and Highways Minister Kamal Nath said here. The British-India Roads Group (BRIG) met Kamal Nath here and it would sign a memorandum of understanding with India in a month or two, Nath told newsmen. The consortium comprises over 20 leading British firms and is likely to enter into joint ventures or special purpose vehicles with Indian partners to help facilitate India's plan to build 20-km highways a day over the next five years. The con-

sortium will work in a range of areas, including reform of the certi-

The British-India Roads Group (BRIG) met Kamal Nath in London and it would sign a memorandum of understanding with India in a month or two, Nath told newsmen fication and licensing procedure, road safety, financing and construction.

Indian high commissioner Nalin Surie said British secretary of state for transport Lord Andrew Adonis will sign the MoU on behalf of Britain. Nath, who was speaking to newsmen after attending a special session on Indo-British Infrastructure Partnership organized by the CII and the Commonwealth Business Council said, "The MoU will cover various aspects including safety, training, licensing and inspections. "We are looking at a userfriendly yet modern common toll technology and the committee headed by the UID Authority chairman Nandan Nilekeni will submit the report in the next four months. -PTI

Hero Honda to produce 4.5 mn two-wheelers DAVOS: The world's largest two-wheeler maker Hero Honda has said it will produce over 45 lakh units in 2009-10 from its three facilities in India and will decide on setting up a fourth manufacturing unit within the next six months. "Despite difficult conditions, we will surely produce 4.5 million units for 2009-10 against 3.7 million units of last fiscal... The market is wanting more," Hero Honda Managing Director Pawan Munjal told PTI on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum here. The company, which has three plants at Dharuhera, Gurgaon and Haridwar with a total annual production capacity of about 50 lakh units, has so far sold 34,13,594 units in this fiscal. Hero Honda had earlier set a target of selling 40 lakh two-wheelers in 2009-10, but later revised it upwards. When asked about setting up of a Greenfield facility, Munjal said, "Very soon we will do a feasibility study. It should take about six months to take a decision." For the coming fiscal year, Munjal said the company will launch about 8-9 models in order to keep up market expectations of new products and will enhance its presence in the rural areas.-PTI

Pawan Munjal, MD Hero Honda Motors, poses with Hero Honda's "Karizma" motorbike at the India's Auto Expo on January 8.

India, China steal the show at Davos meet Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 42

"We have accelerated ... not reached the full peak of our growth potential which could easily be 9 to 10 per cent. So, if India accelerates to say 10 per cent and China begins to decelerates you could have a situation where India grows faster than China," he told PTI at the conclusion of the five-day World Economic Forum meeting here.

India has been growing by over nine per cent till the global economic crisis hit the economy and pulled down the country's growth rate to 6.7 per cent during 2008-09. During the current fiscal, the economy is expected to expand by over 7.75 per cent, as indicated by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee in his Mid-Year Review of the Economy which was tabled in Parliament in December. China clocked a growth of 10.7

per cent during the quarter ending December retaining its position as the fastest growing economy during 2009. India grew by 7.9 per cent during July-September 2009 quarter. Ahluwalia, who participated in several sessions during the 40th annual meeting of WEF at Swiss Alpine resort, also emphasized that the impression about India has changed among the global investor community -PTI

Obama against revoking trade relations with China WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama has said he is not in favor of revoking trade relationship with China, a demand made by several US lawmakers after a row with Beijing over weapons sale to Taiwan. In the past few days China has said that it intends to slap sanctions on American companies following Washington's decision to sell arms to Taiwan, prompting Senators from his party to demand revoking trade ties with the Communist nation. "I would not be in favor of revoking the trade relationships that we've established with China. I have shown myself during the course of this year more than willing to enforce our trade agreements in a much more serious way,

and at times I've been criticized for it," Obama said at a meeting of Senate Democrats Annual Retreat. "You know, there was a case involving foreign tires that were being sent in here, and I said this was an example of where we've got to put our foot down and show that we're serious about enforcement. And it caused the usual fuss at the international level, but it was the right thing to do," he said. "Having said that, I also believe that our future is going to be tied up with our ability to sell products all around the world, and China's going to be one of our biggest markets, and Asia is going to be one of our biggest markets. And for us to close ourselves off from that market would be a mistake," Obama said. -PTI

Auto Expo 2010

India Post

February 12, 2010

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Tratec - foremost 'Special Trailer' manufacturer

ratec Engineers Pvt. Ltd. of Gurgaon, Haryana, founded in 1995, is the leading and foremost "Special Trailer" manufacturer in India. Tratec makes gigantic trailers that are used by capital goods manufacturers / infrastructure projects to move their products. The company specializes in offering total solutions, including design, development, manufacture and maintenance of technologically advanced transportation systems. It is the first and only company indigenously manufacturing 'hydraulic modular trailers', and is perhaps one of very few manufacturers of such trailers in the world. These trailers offer the latest in technology at an affordable price to the customer and are considered a dependable and safe solution for carrying extremely heavy or oversize consignments, within the established safety norms. The company was started by three first generation entrepreneurs - Mr. Kamal Khosla, Mr. Raman Anand and Mr. K.

A ëSpecial Trailerí from Tratec

Rangaswamy. Each of them had years of experience in the trailer industry. Mr. Raman Anand, a Director and founding member of the company, said, "In 1995, most of the trailers used for super heavy applications (read ODC transportation-Over Dimensional Cargo) were being imported by a select band of strong transport corporations mainly from 2-4 manufacturers in Europe at exorbitant cost who maintained a stranglehold over this market. We identified an opportunity in this business and

The Tratec pavilion at Auto Expo

‘Over the last few years imports of these products have virtually stopped as we have achieved about 80-85 per cent market share in India’ developed a fully indigenous solution which was functionally comparable to European products

at a substantially lower cost. "Over the last few years imports of these products have virtually stopped as we have achieved about 80-85 per cent market share in India. In recognition of this phenomenal in-house R&D effort without any outside support or technical collaboration leading to import substitution, the Government of India presented us with the National award in 2001 for Outstanding R&D in Mechanical Engineering Industry". Even today the company is best

known as a one-stop solution in the heavy transport industry offering total and indigenous solutions alone, without any technical tie-up or collaboration, Mr. Anand added. The company is today providing special application solutions to most leading organizations such as L&T, Tatas, ISRO, BHEL, Ministry of Defense, DRDO, BEML, BEL, etc., as well as all leading transporters and infrastructure projects both in the public and private sectors.

Desmania's unique design Foremost institute for teaching automotive design car a big hit

eading design company Desmania unveiled its unique concepts at the design pavilion of the tenth Auto Expo in New Delhi. "Sculpture", its concept car that visualizes beauty and exclusivity in design and taste for refined living, was a huge hit with visitors. Desmania, which showcases its styling, design and modeling capabilities on a single platform, also displayed "Synergi Hybrid" concept bike with impressive designs and graphics. Both models demonstrate Desmania Design's passion and competence in the area of automotive design and styling. With offices in Delhi, Mumbai and Washington DC, Desmania has ventured into the greenfield area of automotive styling in India. It has also set up a large design facility at IMT in Manesar (Gurgaon) with a 20,000 sq. ft. studio for styling, designing, clay modeling and prototyping of cars and bikes. The facility boasts a state-of-the-art work process of complete styling of vehicles. It is based on the proven international processes of design that will include clay milling and modeling, digital design and prototyping. The company is also go-

ing to have highly experienced designers from Italy and Germany on its panel along with fresh and talented automobile designers from India and overseas. Desmania Product Design is a team of creativity fuelled, innovation driven, practically oriented and high energy designers and engineers. Their expertise in design thinking, design research, concept generation, 3D visualization and Engineering power the

product design practice. They have successfully created and continue to create comprehensive design solutions with a clear focus on user needs. Their appearance modeling and prototyping expertise is also enhanced by an in house high precision rapid prototyping facility. They says prototyping enables them to facilitate quick and accurate decision making which further leads to reduced 'concept to launch' time.

NEW DELHI: Dilip Chhabria, internationally acclaimed automotive designer, in association with renowned DY Patil Group, announced the launch of India's unique institution for Automotive Studies - the DYP - DC Center for Automotive Research and Studies at the Auto Expo 2010 in New Delhi. Celebrated actor Vivek Oberoi unveiled the first car from DYP-DC Center for Automotive Research and Studies designed specially by Mr. Dilip Chhabria. The car is an audacious mid-engine concept purportedly to generate a new segment where a SUV need not be boxy and rugged but sexy and sensual. It is a visual treat whose goal is to spawn a new design direction and segment. The DYP-DC Center is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and is spread over an area of 100 acres in Lohegaon, Pune. The admission process for the academic year 2010-11 began this month. The classes will begin from first week of August 2010. Speaking on the need for an automotive design school in India, noted automotive designer and promoter of DC Designs Ltd, Dilip Chhabria, said: "Like love, design is a matter of the heart. We aim to develop skills that embody this coupled with business and manufacturing dynamics. A unique approach to ensure the non commoditization of skills across the board, it is a boon in view of the impending huge explosion of automotive growth in our part of the world.

Mr. Ajinkya Patil, Chairman, DY Patil Group, said: "We are honored to initiate one of finest institutions of India with Dilip Chhabria and promote DYP - DC Center for Automotive Research and Studies. It will be the worldwide centre of excellence in Automotive Studies that will develop informed designers, engineering and manag-

ers who can contribute their creative output and research to India's Automotive Industry. With Dilip Chhabria as the mentor for the students and a set of highly qualified faculty from across the globe coupled with enabling infrastructure, we are confident of achieving our goal." The endeavor is an exceptional combination of the educational legacy of DY Patil Group and legendary automotive styling expertise of Mr. Dilip Chhabria. The Center will be a premium interdisciplinary Automotive Design, Engineering and Management institution, thus covering all the domains within Automobile Industry. This is what makes it unique and first of its kind.

In Brief LA authorities find suspected immigrant house LOS ANGELES: Federal agents say they are investigating a possible immigrant smuggling ring after they found 14 people held against their will at a suspected drop house in Los Angeles. Authorities said the suspected illegal immigrants told investigators that smugglers had charged them between $5,000 and $7,000 each for safe passage into the US. Virginia Kice, a spokeswoman for US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, says the smugglers were trying to extort more money before releasing them. No arrests have been made. All the immigrants were in good health when found in Reseda. -AP

Man brought to justice in Seattle 27 years later SEATTLE: A man who fled Seattle 27 years ago after being accused of killing a woman and her unborn baby has been sentenced to 76 years in prison. After the 1982 shooting of a pregnant woman who stopped to offer Robert Besabe a ride, he fled to California and assumed an alias. He served 10 years in prison for killing a different person and then was deported to his native Philippines. He was arrested in September 2007 after he walked into the U.S. Embassy in Manila to try to get a new passport. He had been on the FBI's mostwanted list for 25 years and was quickly extradited to Washington. A King County jury found him guilty in November. -AP

Census chief tries easing immigrant fears in Texas LAREDO, Texas: US Census Director Robert Groves is trying to reassure immigrants that taking part in the decennial head count won't lead to deportation. But the Census Bureau has plenty of work ahead. Groves arrived in an impoverished Laredo, Texas, neighborhood in a small convoy that included several police cars and large white vans. One resident said it was the kind of sight that makes some residents run and hide. The San Carlos colonia, or neighborhood, is among the nation's most difficult places for census workers to survey. Many residents fear talking to government workers because of their immigration status. -AP

Immigration 45

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February 12, 2010

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Honduras reinstates top immigration official TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras: Honduras' new government has reinstated its top immigration official, 24 hours after firing him, citing ``a misunderstanding and a mistake.'' -AP

Massachusetts immigrant tuition bill is likely dead BOSTON: Legislators' election year anxiety after Republican Scott Brown's U.S. Senate win has likely doomed a proposal granting undocumented students in-state tuition rates for this legislative session, according to Massachusetts House Speaker Robert DeLeo. But Gov. Deval Patrick, a fellow Democrat, said he hopes that's not the case. “We keep putting off hard issues,'' an exasperated governor told reporters. ``I credit the Legislature for taking a number of the hard votes we've asked them to, but in many of those cases, even, the right thing to do has been waiting for decades. Let's get on with it.'' DeLeo told The Boston Globe that the Democratic-led Legislature is edgy going into an election year in the aftermath of Brown's victory. He said lawmakers likely want to stay away from controversial proposals and focus on jobs and the economy.

However, DeLeo told the Globe that he thinks there's support for Patrick's idea to provide health insurance to legal immigrants. Eva Millona, executive director of Massachusetts Immigrants & Refugee Advocacy Coalition, said despite DeLeo's comments, immigrant advocates aren't giving up the fight for the tuition proposal. ``It is

is offered in 10 other states. But three years after Massachusetts House lawmakers soundly rejected a similar bill, advocates remained unsure on support from some state lawmakers who weren't around during the last fight. A statement from DeLeo's office did not fully clear up the confusion. ``This issue, like many oth-

Four states Arizona, Colorado, Georgia and South Carolina have passed laws specifically banning undocumented students from being eligible for in-state tuition a difficult issue. We're not denying it,'' said Millona. ``But this proposal has tremendous support and it will help the state's economy.'' Last week, dozens of students and immigrant advocates crowded a hearing on the proposal before the Joint Committee on Higher Education. Advocates and students have vowed to keep pressing lawmakers and the governor on a measure that

ers, is one that will be considered during the budget process,'' the statement said. ``Speaker DeLeo's immediate focus is on job creation and the economy.'' Patrick said expanding in-state tuition to undocumented students could boost state revenues by attracting more of them to higher education, ``but it's most especially good for those young

people. It's fair. It meets them where they are. And it's about opportunity.'' Charlie Baker, a Republican candidate for governor, issued a statement criticizing Patrick's position ``especially as our state continues to face an economic crisis.'' “This is about fairness,'' Baker said. ``People who are here illegally should not get an advantage over students who have played by the rules, and they should not get a taxpayer-funded tuition break reserved for citizens of Massachusetts.'' Ten states California, Illinois, Kansas, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin have such instate tuition laws for undocumented students. Oklahoma repealed its law in 2008. Four states Arizona, Colorado, Georgia and South Carolina have passed laws specifically banning undocumented students from being eligible for in-state tuition. -AP

Tips on using the Neufeld Memorandum in H-1B petitions - Part I MYRIAM JAIDI

he USCIS Memo by Donald Neufeld dated January 8, 2010 ("Neufeld Memo" or "Memo"), available at tiny.cc/z3ZU8, has understandably sparked significant concern and indignation. (See New USCIS Memo on Employer-Employee Relationship for H-1B Petitions: Is It A Way to Keep Certain Workers Out, cyrusmehta.blogspot.com). The Memo targets certain service-related industries such as IT consulting firms. The Memo also creates new rules in violation of the Administrative Procedure Act's notice-andcomment requirement. Although the Memo poses many problems, we explore whether it can serve as a blueprint for companies moving forward to assist them in establishing that they exercise sufficient control over their employees at client sites.

The Neufeld Memo signals that USCIS has not taken the realities of modern service-oriented business models into account in issuing the guidance. The Memo focuses on clarifying the definition of the employer-employee relationship in the context of immigration law. The INA actually provides a more nuanced definition of employer than many

or organization in the United States which: (1) Engages a person to work within the United States; (2) Has an employer-employee relationship with respect to employees under this part, as indicated by the fact that it may hire, pay, fire, supervise, or otherwise control the work of any such employee; and

The Neufeld Memo signals that USCIS has not taken the realities of modern service-oriented business models into account in issuing the guidance federal statutes, which often define the term employer or employee circularly (e.g., under the Americans with Disabilities Act an "employee" is "an individual employed by an employer." 42 USC § 12111(4)). The regulations provide that a US Employer means: a person, firm, corporation, contractor, or other association,

(3) Has an Internal Revenue Service Tax identification number. 8 C.F.R. 214.2(h)(4)(ii). The Neufeld Memo asserts that it now provides guidance due to a lack of clarity in the definition and that it relies upon the common law and the Supreme Court in emphasizing the employer's right to control the employee and in delineating fac-

tors to assess that control. Although clearly a key element of the definition under the INA, the Memo's focus on control does not realistically capture the many ways that the employer-employee relationship now manifests in the global economy. Defining this relationship has been problematic across contexts throughout US history and throughout the development of the common law. As the Supreme Court has pointed out, the focus on "control" developed initially in the context of vicarious liability and determining when and whether an employer could be held vicariously liable for the wrongful acts of an employee subject to its control, and the principles developed in that context do not clearly serve other purposes for which a definition is needed. See NLRB v. Hearst, 322 U.S. 111, 120 (1944). Cont’d on page 47

Immigration Post

India Post

February 12, 2010

www.indiapost.com

Convicted Vegas bomber gets life without parole Affidavit of Support Adjustment of Status ALL IMMIGRATION FORMALITIES U.S. CITIZENSHIP/GREEN CARD

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LAS VEGAS: An illegal immigrant from Nicaragua has been sentenced to life in Nevada prison without parole for killing a hot dog stand vendor with a pipe bomb he built and hid in a coffee cup outside a Las Vegas Strip casino in 2007. Porfirio Duarte-Herrera's fate had been determined in September, when the Las Vegas jury that convicted him and co-defendant Omar Rueda-Denvers of first-degree murder and other charges chose to spare them the death penalty. Duarte-Herrera, 29, offered no statement before Clark County District Court Judge Michael Villani made the jury decision official. The judge imposed an additional 19 to 50 years for DuarteHerrera's convictions for attempted murder with use of a deadly weapon and transportation of an explosive device. The judge ran sentences totaling four to 10 years on two felony explosives charges concurrently.

The sentence for DuarteHerrera, the bomb maker, was longer than for Rueda-Denvers. Villani on Jan. 7 sentenced RuedaDenvers, 34, an illegal immigrant from Guatemala, to life in prison plus 16 to 40 years for attempted murder with use of a deadly weapon. Rueda-

Duarte-Herrera did not testify at trial, but apologized and sought leniency from the jury during the death penalty phase of the case Denvers also uses the name Alexander Perez. His lawyers have filed notice with the Nevada Supreme Court that they will appeal. Duarte-Herrera's attorneys, Clark Patrick and Charles Cano, said that their client will appeal his

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conviction and sentence. Cano called the additional sentence ``redundant.'' ``It seems excessive,'' the public defender said, ``considering he's going to do a life term without parole.'' Duarte-Herrera did not testify at trial, but apologized and sought leniency from the jury during the death penalty phase of the case. Prosecutors alleged his friend, Rueda-Denvers, wanted 24-yearold Willebaldo Dorantes Antonio dead because Dorantes Antonio was dating Rueda-Denvers' ex-girlfriend, Caren Chali. Chali, now 30, was an illegal immigrant from Guatemala and the mother of one of Rueda-Denvers' two daughters. She worked with Dorantes Antonio at a Nathan's hot dog stand at the Luxor hotelcasino, and was nearby but escaped injury when the bomb exploded. Dorantes Antonio immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico. Prosecutors said DuarteHerrera built the device from gunpowder and a motion-activated switch, and hid it in a foam 7Eleven cup set atop Dorantes Antonio's parked car. It detonated when Dorantes Antonio picked it up, killing him with a shard of shrapnel to the forehead. During the penalty phase of the trial, jurors were told that DuarteHerrera claimed responsibility for two other bombings in the Las Vegas area one detonated by remote control in the desert near Nellis Air Force Base, and one set off by a timer that damaged a pickup truck outside a Home Depot store on Halloween 2006. -AP

Immigration Post

February 12, 2010

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Tips on using the Neufeld Memorandum in H-1B petitions - Part I Cont’d from page 45

In the 1940s, the Supreme Court determined that the term "employee" had to be construed within the context of the federal statute at issue, not just based on the common law agency principles focusing on the "control test". For example, in one case where the Supreme Court was dealing with a union matter under the National Labor Relations Act, the Court held that the term employee "must be understood with reference to the purpose of the [NLRA] and the facts involved in the economic relationship." Id. at 129 (emphasis added). More recently, the Supreme Court has abandoned this more nuanced interpretation in favor of the "control test." See Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. v. Darden, 503 U.S. 318, 323-324 (1992). However, Hearst and cases like it are helpful in reminding us that federal statutes are created to address particular problems and statutory definitions should be (and in fact are) "construed in light of the mischief to be

corrected and the end to be attained." Hearst, 322 US. at 124. The purposes of the immigration laws are manifold, but important functions of the laws include protecting workers' rights and determining whether the entry of a foreign national worker benefits the US.

Every service related business requires performing work for a client and in those settings the client requesting the service will need to provide some guidance The immigration laws and regulations governing the H-1B visa category were designed to ensure that US workers' wages and working conditions would be protected, and that foreign workers would not be exploited. If applied with these goals in mind, the

control test as interpreted by USCIS in the Neufeld Memo can be a help to IT consulting businesses. These businesses can use the Memo as a blueprint for updating and clarifying their business practices and mine it for arguments in support of an H1B petition. Every service related business requires performing work for a client and in those settings the client requesting the service will need to provide some guidance as to what it needs to have done. For example, some IT consulting businesses conduct software development for a client, marketing their services and distribution of computer software with associated consulting services to meet the needs of clients, or some permutation of these and other important functions. It is important to emphasize that placing an employee at a client site does not automatically transform the client into the employer. Furthermore, the employee placed at a client site is typically not "ex-

pected to become part of [the client's] regular operations", as the Neufeld Memo seems to suggest. Normally, an H-1B beneficiary is assigned by the petitioner to work for a particular client to achieve a specific goal for the client. The client does not dictate the education/experience requirements of the position with the petitioner for which the beneficiary was hired, nor does the client dictate the beneficiary's job duties, reporting duties, or duties of confidentiality vis à vis the petitioner. Rather, the client has usually chosen the

petitioner as a consultant because the petitioner hires people of the caliber necessary for their projects. In some cases, a client will need to provide greater input to the petitioner on how it wants a project completed, but the petitioner retains ultimate control over and responsibility for the beneficiary's work and compensating the beneficiary for that work. (To be continued) * Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com

NYC fire in immigrant housing kills 5 talized, and 13 firefighters were injured, none of them seriously, officials said. Arson is possible because the fire started behind the door of the first-floor building entrance, ``not where a fire would normally start,'' New York City Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano said. The fire started around 2:30 a.m. and soon engulfed the threestory building in a Brooklyn neighborhood that is home to a diverse population of Russians, Hispanics and Chinese. The stairwell between the floors collapsed, as well as part of

the roof, trapping residents, according to fire officials. Most of the building's residents were from Guatemala, neighbor Juan Gabriel told The New York Times. He said a woman held a baby boy out a third-floor window and ``was screaming, 'Help me, help me!''' Moments later, she threw the infant out the window to Gabriel and two other men, but in the darkness, they did not catch him. She threw another child who landed on an awning. It wasn't clear whether the woman survived. -AP

Illegal immigrant inmates denied training SACRAMENTO, Calif.: California prison inmates who are in the country illegally will no longer be allowed to participate in vocational training and work programs. The Prison Industry Board says the programs should be reserved for inmates who can get California

jobs after their release. A staff report says more than 400 of the 5,700 inmates currently getting training are set to be deported to their home countries after they serve their California sentences. The program trains inmates for manufacturing and agriculture

jobs in 22 of the state's 33 adult prisons. The board made the policy change during a meeting. It takes effect March 1, though inmates facing deportation will be able to complete programs if they are currently enrolled. -AP

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NEW YORK: A fire possibly set by an arsonist engulfed a building housing mostly Guatemalan immigrants, trapping residents and killing at least five people, authorities said. Four people in the building were injured, including an infant and an older child who were tossed out the window by a woman frantically trying to save them. The infant was in critical condition with a fractured skull after bystanders below were unable to catch him, officials and witnesses said. At least one adult was hospi-

Realty Tidbits

Pending home sales stabilize above last year’s

WASHINGTON: Pending home sales have leveled from a market swing driven by response to the home buyer tax credit, according to the National Association of Realtors®. The Pending Home Sales Index, a forward-looking indicator based on contracts signed in December, increased 1.0 percent to 96.6 from 95.6 in November, and remains 10.9 percent above December 2008 when it was 87.1. In November, the monthly index had fallen by 16.4 percent from surging activity in preceding months. Lawrence Yun, NAR chief economist, said it's important to recognize how the tax credit is skewing market data. "There are easily understood swings in contract activity as buyers respond to a tax credit that was expiring and was then extended and expanded," he said. "These swings are masking the underlying trend, which is a broad improvement over year-ago levels. December activity was the fifth highest monthly tally in two years."

ETA Star housing project in India DUBAI: Dubai-based developer ETA Star Property is set to launch the first phase of an integrated township project worth USD 250 million in India this year and is looking to tap the housing demand in the country. The real estate arm of ETA Ascon Star will launch an integrated township project near Chennai this year as it looks to tap strong demand for property in the country, company's Executive Director Abid Junaid said. The first phase of the project-one of three or four phases-- is worth USD 250 million, he said. "When it comes to property development itself, we are looking at India more aggressively and we believe there is potential," he said. He, however, declined to give the total value for the project, which will take five years to complete. -PTI

Real Estate 48 India Post

www.indiapost.com

February 12, 2010

Return of commercial real estate in Pune

recent research conducted by consulting firms in the realty sector have shown that the return of the IT sector and IT-enabled services and an overall positive perception about economic recovery has had a benign impact on the city's commercial real estate sector, including the retail space. The survey adds that that in spite of the lift in demand for office and other commercial spaces, the lease rentals have remained stable, helping occupiers plan their acquisition better.

Facts about tax credit when buying home M TRACEY C. VELT

ost people welcome any extra cash when buying a home. And, thanks to a government tax credit of up to $8,000 for first-time homebuyers and up to $6,500 for move-up buyers, they're getting it. But, you have to act quickly. The tax credit applies to a principal residence bought by April 30, 2010, and you must close by June 30, 2010. However, there are many misconceptions about who qualifies and for how much. Here are essential facts about the tax credit. 1. In some cases, you can use it as a down payment or for closing costs. For the most part, homebuyers can't use the tax credit as an automatic down payment, although "tax credit funds can be used for the basic down-payment requirement (3.5 percent) on an FHA-insured loan only when it's handled through a state housing finance agency (HFA)," says Lemar Wooley, a spokesman for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. If the home loan is handled through an FHA lender (and not an HFA), the tax credit can be "used to add to the down payment above the 3.5 percent required amount. It can also be used for closing costs," says Wooley. Many state HFAs are running or sponsoring programs that will use a tax credit for a down payment. These programs often place a second lien on the home as collateral to secure the eventual re-

payment of the tax credit funds. Some HFAs lend directly to homebuyers while others work through networks of state-approved lenders. For a list of what state HFAs are doing, go to www.ncsha.org. 2. You don't get a check at closing. Many homebuyers assume that the $8,000 is given to them at closing. Not true, says Winter Park, Fla.based accountant David Keeler. "Taxpayers need to wait until they've actually filed their income tax return to receive the tax credit," says Keeler. "The homebuyer credit reduces one's tax liability on

3. You don't always get the full credit. "This is one of the biggest misconceptions out there," says Maynor Perez, a real estate sales associate with Positive Realty in Doral, Fla. "If you pay $50,000 for a home, you will not get the full $8,000 tax credit." In fact, the top credit for homes bought in 2009 is $8,000 ($4,000 for a married individual filing separately) or 10 percent of the residence's purchase price -- whichever is less. So, for a $50,000 home, the homebuyer would receive a $5,000 tax credit. And, if you buy a house for $800,000 or more, you're

If the home loan is handled through an FHA lender (and not an HFA), the tax credit can be "used to add to the down payment above the 3.5 percent required amount a dollar-for-dollar basis, and if the credit is more than the tax you owe, the difference is paid to you as a tax refund." The IRS says first-time homebuyers who purchased a home in 2009 can claim the tax credit on either a 2008 return, due April 15, 2009, or a 2009 return, due April 15, 2010. The credit may not be claimed before the closing date. But, if the closing occurs after April 15, 2009, a taxpayer can still claim it on a 2008 tax return by requesting a filing extension or by filing an amended return.

not eligible for the tax credit. 4. You may have to pay it back. Taxpayers who claim the credit must use the home as a principal residence for the next three consecutive years. If you sell the house before living in it for three years, you may have to pay back the tax credit. Who doesn't have to pay back the tax credit? Qualified military service members who sell or move from a tax credit home within three years of the initial purchase, due to official extended duty, are exempt from paying back the money,

says Lisa Ellis, sales manager of Century 21 Prestige Real Estate Inc. in St. Robert, Mo. "Members of the military don't have control over how long they stay in one place. At Fort Leonard Wood, the typical military member stays only two to three years," says Ellis. 5. You don't have to be a firsttime homebuyer. A first-time homebuyer is defined as someone who hasn't owned a principal residence in the past three years. If you have owned a home before but haven't owned one recently, you may still qualify for the full $8,000. If you currently own a home, the tax credit was recently amended to include move-up buyers. As a move-up buyer, you may qualify for up to $6,500. Vacation homes and rental properties are not eligible. 6. There are income limits. "The homebuyer credit is available to higher income taxpayers," says Keeler. "For purchases after Nov. 6, 2009, the homebuyer credit phases out over higher modified adjusted gross income levels, making the credit available to a much bigger pool of buyers." For homes purchased after Nov. 6, 2009, and on or before April 30, 2010, single taxpayers with incomes up to $125,000 and married couples with incomes up to $225,000 qualify for the full tax credit. The tax credit expansion can give you incentive to start looking. But, act quickly and carefully to ensure you receive the full benefit.

Indian investors take big chunk in Dubai DUBAI: Indian investors were responsible for the biggest chunk of real estate sales in Dubai in 2009, a new study has revealed. The figures, included in FutureBrand's Gulf Real Estate Study, showed that nearly a quarter or 24 per cent of sales by value in the city involved Indian investors. The data, supplied by DUBAIFocus in association with Dubai Land Department, also reveal that UK property buyers finished second with their 21 per cent

share. Investors from Pakistan and Iran grabbed the third and fourth spot with their 12 per cent and 10 per cent contribution respectively. Reasons for investing in Dubai was dominated by buyer's search for high quality construction and nearly 19 per cent of the respondents stated this as their highest priority. Innovation (15.6 per cent), building great places to live (6.8 per cent) and the ease to work with developers (6.7 per cent) were also seen as important factors by pro-

spective buyers, according to the research. However, the need to deliver projects on time just got a 0.2 per cent rating from respondents. In November, research firm Proleads said some 1,845 projects worth a combined USD 657 billion were still active in the UAE despite the impact of the global slowdown. The study of the civil construction industry in the country showed 69 per cent of the total projects were ongoing (not cancelled or delayed). -PTI

Classifieds

February 12, 2010

India Post 49

www.indiapost.com

MATRIMONIALS BRIDEGROOM WANTED

Parents looking for a groom for their beautiful daughter, American Citizen, 31years, 5'3" tall, Caste No Bar. Please send your picture and biodata to P.O.Box # 342, India Post 29274 Union City Blvd.,

Union City, CA - 94587.

Well Settled in California,

PUNJABI FAMILY INVITES CORRESPODENCE FOR THEIR WORKING DAUGHTER 28 YRS OF AGE, 5'6". SEEKING US RAISED WORKING BOY. SEND RESPONSE TO RSOUGU@YAHOO.COM OR CALL AT 714-234-4921

PUNJABI SIKH PARENTS INVITE CORRESPONDENCE FROM WELL ESTABLISHED FAMILIES FOR DAUGHTER, 24 YRS, BEAUTIFUL, SLIM, 5’3", MASTERS-HUMAN GENETICS, LIVING IN INDIA. PROFESSIONALS PREFERRED. PLEASE SEND BIODATA WITH PICTURE. gundeepsingh8@gmail.com PH:562-201-1130

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match for Punjabi Khatri handsome son born Nov. 1978, 5'9" educated, selfemployed. Alliance invited from beautiful educated girl. Email biodata and photograph to Dreamsunlimited1@yahoo.com

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HINDU SOOD KHATRI PARENTS FROM LOS ANGELES INVITE

slim, 29 years, 5’5” tall

Parents seeking

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Agrawal parents seeking

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For Chanderika: Seeking alliance for 41 year old/5’5” Punjabi Khatri, well established professional teacher. Very brief marriage annulled. Seeking mature, responsible match from sincere professional/businessman, West Coast preferred. Email bio-data/photo at matriad41@gmail.com.

SOUTHERN CA 42, youthful, handsome, PhD, professor in prestigious university, IIT undergrad, Brahmin, vegetarian, US citizen, divorcee never lived together, seeks partner below 36, Indian values, caring, PhD, MD, professionals, bio/photo details must.sunjupe@gmail.com

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Jat Sikh parents invite a matrimonial alliance for their

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M.B.A (I.T) From USA. Has Student Visa and work

hsnba@sbcglobal.net

permit Trying for H-1B Visa

sramesh@aol.com NEW YORK (Pinky)

Brother Dentist in India. Father & Mother in USA

OWNER OPERATORS WANTED WITH OR WITHOUT

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TRAILER, WEEKLY SETTLEMENT, DEDICATED OVER

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with Bio data and Photo

Classifieds

India Post

February 12, 2010

www.indiapost.com

For Classifieds Ads Call SOUTHERN CA (J. S. Bedi) Tel: 562-644-9523/ Telefax: 562-929-4213

MOTEL FOR SALE

ONLY SERIOUS INQUIRY

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for senior male. Live in/out at our home in Union City, CA Vegetarian/ Male.

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sonia@indiapost.com

1 MALE AND 1 FEMALE ENGLISH BULLDOG. If you are interested in the puppies. Contact email revjohn.colins99@yahoo.com

& desire to help seniors Call Charu or e-mail

PAYROLL ACCOUNTANT WANTED

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A 62 units economy Franchise motel on Interstate I 80 / 35 in Des Moine Iowa with two separate houses near to it is for sale. Good business. Owner relocating. Asking $2.2 million

Urgent Help Needed

clerks and accountants.

“HOTEL HELP/ COUPLE WANTED”

Job comes with great benefits, Applicants should kindly

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STORES FOR RENT at Linconwood, Devon and Cove Plaza, Schaumburg. For details Contact LRM Investments Phone : 773-416-3322 Email : lrm.investments@yahoo.com

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FOR SALE Hotel property in Manhattan NYChelsea .50,000 sq ft Build able .50x100 lot Up to 24 Stories high Price $13 Million J/V possible. Only serious buyersPlease. Email DennisD@citysitesny.com

Classifieds

February 12, 2010

India Post 51

www.indiapost.com

GET FREE PRODUCTS EVERYDAY!

BUSINESS FOR SALE Quiznos in a prime location in Inland

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Datebook

52 India Post

February 12, 2010

www.indiapost.com

NEW YORK Upcoming

ILLINOIS Upcoming

NEW JERSEY Upcoming

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA Upcoming

Fri Feb 12

Sat Feb 13

Sun Feb 14

Mon Feb 8 to Sun Feb 14

• Sri Sri Yoga Course

• Valentine Party Venue: The Best Westren Hotel, 5105 S. Howell Avenue Airport, Milwaukee, Wisconsin Time: 8:30pm to 1am Contact: 414-336-5982

• Valentine's Day Dinner & Live Music Show

• Sri Rudra Yagam

Venue: Sari's Residence, 171 Lawrence Avenue, Eastchester, New York Time: 6:30pm Contact: 914-482-1834

Sat Feb 13

Wed Feb 17

• The PADLOCK & KEY Singles Party

• Festival Offer

Venue: KISS & FLY, 409 West 13th Street, Between 9th Ave & Washington, New York Time: 7pm to 11:30pm Contact: 973-650-2172

Venue: Chantilly, 42856 Golf View Dr, Chantilly, Illinois Contact: 703-340-6222

Fri Feb 19 • Rasa: Heart and Soul

Sat Feb 20 • Basant Festival in NEW YORK! Venue: Dyker beach Park, 86st and 14st Ave, Brooklyn NY 11228, Brooklyn, New York Time: 6am Contact: 347-497-1819

Venue: Hamlin Park Fieldhouse Theater, 3035 N. Hoyne, Chicago, Illinois Time: 7:30pm Contact: 773-363-9303

Sat Feb 20 • Evening of Bharata Natyam

Wed Feb 24 • Indophile - Comedy Show Venue: Carolines, 1626 Broadway, NYC Time: 7pm Contact: 212-956-0101

Sat Feb 27 • Mohamana (Infatuated Love) Venue: Simple Studios, 134 West 29th street, NYC Time: 7pm Contact: (800) 838-3006

Sat March 6 • Bharata Natyam Student Recital 2010 Venue: City Center Studios, 130 West 56th street, studio #3, NYC Contact: (917) 214-6466

Sat May 1 • Dancing STAR ka Damaka Venue: Shreenath Enterprise Inc, 220-15, 92 ave queens village, New York Time: 7pm Contact: 347-513-8526

Sun May 2 • 9th Muslim Matrimonial Hosted by MillanUS.com Venue: Adria Hotel & Conference Center, 220-33 Northern Blvd., Bayside, New York Time: 3pm to 9pm Contact: 516-840-0396

Venue: Inner Peace Yoga Center, 5038 East 56th Street, Indianapolis, Indiana Time: 6:30pm Contact: (317) 257-9642

Venue: Ramada Inn, 999 Route 1 South, North Brunswick, New Jersey Time: 6:30pm Contact: 732-233-3499

Fri Feb 12 • Maha Shivratri Venue: Shri Mangal Mandir, 17110 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland Contact: (301) 421-0985

Sat Feb 13 • Bollywood 2 Night *Valentines Edition* Venue: Panache, 1725 DeSales St NW - Washington DC Time: 10pm to 3am Contact: 202-403-4343

Wed Feb 17 • Festival Offer Venue: Chantilly, 42856 Golf View Dr, Chantilly, District of Columbia Contact: 703-340-6222

Sat Feb 27 • Elite 8 Bhangra Invitational Venue: George Washington University's Auditorium , 21st Street NW, Washington Contact: info@emdoentertainment.com

Sat Feb 13

Sun Feb 21

• Valentines Party

• Abhishek's 7th annual Bridal Showcase

Venue: Athidhi Indian Cusine, 47986 Warm Springs Blvd, Fremont Ca 94539, Fremont, California Time: 8pm to 11:30pm Contact: 650-669-0281

Venue: Royal Albert's Palace, 1050 King Georges Road, Fords, New Jersey Time: 11am to 6pm Contact: 917-440-5110

Sun Feb 14

Sun Feb 28

• Seven Wonders of the World Dance

• HOLI Hungama

Venue: CET Auditorium, 701 Vine Street, San Jose, CA Time: 4pm to 7pm Contact: (408) 446 9002

Venue: Tawa Restaurant, 1357 Stelton Road, Pscayaway, New Jersey Time: 11am to 4pm Contact: 732-763-0118

Sat Feb 20 • Sneha Sapthami

Sat March 27 • Marathi Vishwa-Vasantotsav 2010

WASHINGTON DC Upcoming

Venue: Sri Veda Vidya Peetham, 1063, Morse Ave, Apt# 19207, Sunnyvale, California Time: 9am 7pm Contact: 925-915-1829

Venue: Crosroads Middle School- South, 195 Major Road, Monmouth Junction, New Jersey Time: 3pm to 8pm Contact: 732-355-9844

Sat March 27 • 2010 Spring Festival

Venue: Sunnyvale Hindu Temple, 420 Persian Dr, Sunnyvale, California Contact: 408-734-4554

Sun Feb 21 • Silicon Valley Reads Venue: India Community Center, 525 Los Coches Street, Milpitas, California Time: 2pm to 4pm Contact: 408-956-9115

Venue: Ocean Township High School, Ocean, New Jersey Time: 3pm to 9pm Contact: 732-801-4694

Fri Feb 26

Sat May 29

Venue: Green Room, War Memorial and Performing Arts Center, San Francisco, California Contact: (415) 894-9442

• Vishwa Marathi Natya Sammelan Venue: Raritan Center, New Jersey Convention Center, 97 Sunfield Avenue, Edison, New Jersey Highlights: The VMNS will be hosted and executed by the US branch of ABMNP, led by Dr. Meena Nerurkar and her team. It will have an attendance of some V.V.I.P.s in the entertainment industry, about 200 top notch artists from Maharashtra, the chief minister of Maharashtra and government representatives.

Sat March 20 • Naach Revolution Venue: Union County Arts Center, 1601 Irving Street, Rahway, New Jersey Time: 6pm to 9pm Contact: 732-763-0118

• SABA Gala

Sat Feb 27 • Purandara Dasa Aradhana Venue: Livermore Temple, 1232 Arrowhead Ave, Livermore,CA Time: 5pm Contact: (925) 449-6255

Sat March 6 • India Literacy Project Cultural Fest - 2010 Venue: FootHill College, 12345 El Monte Blvd, Los Altos Hills, California Time: 6pm to 9pm Contact: 408-340-0428 Highlights: Indian Classical Music: Jugalbandhi by prominent Bay Area artists. Shri Ravi Gutala - Tabla, Shri Shriram Brahmanandam - Mridangam, Shri A. Mahadevan - Morsing, Bollywood Music: Bollywood music by IndianMusic Band "Ehsaaz".

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Upcoming Every 4th Sat every Month • Durga Mata Ka Jagaran Venue: 2335 S. Diamond Bar Boulevard, DBC Center, Diamond Bar, CA Time: 6:30pm Contact: 909-519-1579, 626-810-2345

Every Sat (start from Sat Aug 8) • Gurukul Classes for Children Venue: Sindhu Center, South California Time: 2pm to 4pm Contact: 818-541-1754 & 909-576-1114 Highlights: Children between the ages of 5 and 18. Children will be taught the Fundamentals of Hinduism, Prayers, Shlokas, Bhajans and Values of our culture.

Sat Feb 13,20 and 27 • Reservoir Bitches," a staged version of Quentin Tarantino's classic Venue: The Next Stage Theatre in Hollywood, 1523 N. LA Brea Ave, Hollywood, CA 90028 Time: 8pm Tickets: $25 @ the door, $20 if you reserved a ticket, $15 if you buy them prior

Sat Feb 13 • Bollywood Valentine Venue: Rockwell VT, 1714 N Vermont blvd, cross street Hollywood blvd, Los Feliz, California Time: 9pm Contact: 805-587-5194

Fri Feb 19 • Young Indian Professionals Mixer Venue: Stone Rose Lounge, 8555 Beverly Blvd, West Hollywood, California Time: 9:30pm Contact: 323-205-5594

Philosophy

February 12, 2010

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Page Sponsored by Sahanis event could be processed in a positive fashion. The ball has gone to the woods. How do I recover from it? I should get my next shot right. A good friend of mine, Brian Jumper, plays good golf. I asked him for some tips and he said, "It is all mental." He knows it is not all mental but what he is trying to tell is that mind plays a great role in the game of golf. Realization It is important to realize that the processing of thoughts should be (Cont'd from last week) houghts or events that lead to generation of thoughts are generally neutral. We provide them energy (negative or positive) to go further. It is also important to remember that positive things generally happen around positive people. It is not that negative things do not happen to such people. The incidence of negative phenomenon around such people is less. Example Let us take a simple example. You are playing golf and you hit a ball. The ball slices and disappears in the woods. You are frustrated. How could this have happened to you? You throw your clubs and start swearing. You take a drop and hit the next ball. This one goes astray as well. You have lost your center. You are still in an upset mode. You are not back to your happy point. The same

DR KRISHNA BHATTA

Most people understand what positive thinking is. They all want to bring this to their lives, but are not able to do it when they want to. The reason is that they are not used to doing so

performed without letting the thought getting attached to you. You need to pick up any random thought that comes to your mind and process it. Processing requires energy from you. Prior to processing, it was just a thought. It is like a wild beautiful flower in a jungle. It just exists. Once a man comes near the flower, a new poetry arises. Making of a poem however natural, requires energy. Another man may want to dig the flower plant and de-

tative exercises, there may be inadvertent materialization of your thought processes. Therefore it is important that you do not provide negative energy to any thoughts during these exercises. Otherwise, you might cause the wild fire effect in some form or the other. Also, since you will be working on certain thoughts intensely for approximately 5-10 minutes, you might also affect or pollute the universal thought pool if you impart lots of negative energy to that

time and practice. These half-hour exercises are going to provide you a platform for positive thinking. If you practice half-hour for several months, you walk around with positive energy and that is what you will have whenever any thought or event happens around you. Even negative thoughts can be practiced in a positive fashion. There is no thought or event that does not have a positive side to it. (To be continued)

blocks all true relationship. It comes between you and yourself, between you and your fellow man and woman, between you and nature, between you and God. It is this screen of thought that creates the illusion of separateness, the illusion that there is you and a totally separate "other." You then forget the essential fact that,

Don't judge or analyze what you observe. Watch the thought, feel the emotion, observe the reaction. Don't make a personal problem out of them. You will then feel something more powerful than any of those things that you observe: the still, observing presence itself behind the content of your mind, the silent watcher.

beyond name and form. Beyond the beauty of external forms, there is more here: something that cannot be named, something ineffable, some deep, inner, holy essence. Whenever and wherever there is beauty, this inner essence shines through somehow. It only reveals itself to you when you are present. Many expressions that are in common usage, and sometimes the structure of language itself, reveal the fact that people don't know who they are. You say: "He lost his life" or "my life," as if life were something that you can possess or lose. The truth is: you don't have a life, you are life. The One Life, the one consciousness that pervades the entire universe and takes temporary form to experience itself as a stone or blade of grass, as an animal, a person, a star or a galaxy. Can you sense deep within that you already know that? Can you sense that you already are That? The Truth is far more all-encompassing than the mind could ever comprehend. No thought can encapsulate the Truth. The 62nd birth anniversary of Eckhart Tolle will be observed on February 16

You don't have a life, you are life

Be present as the watcher of your mind -- of your thoughts and emotions as well as your reactions in various situations

ECKHART TOLLE

when the mind is still. When you are present, when your attention is fully and intensely in the Now, Being can be felt, but it can never be understood mentally. To regain awareness of Being and to abide in that state of "feeling-realization" is enlightenment. Identification with your mind creates an opaque screen of concepts, labels, images, words, judgments, and definitions that

particular thought. Positive Thinking Most people understand what positive thinking is. They all want to bring this to their lives, but are not able to do it when they want to. The reason is that they are not used to doing so. Exercise one is meant to help you know what kind of thoughts you currently have and how you currently process your thoughts. This is how you have been doing it all your life. Any change takes

Processing of thoughts with positive energy

eing is not only beyond but also deep within every form as its innermost invisible and indestructible essence. This means that it is accessible to you now as your own deepest self, your true nature. But don't seek to grasp it with your mind. Don't try to understand it. You can know it only

stroy nature in the process. And yet another man may smoke his cigarette and throw carelessly in the wild forest which might start a wild fire. That wild fire may cause destruction and also cost money and lives in the process. What is the point? The point I am trying to make here is the kind of energy you provide in the processing the thoughts is important. Positive energy is what you need to use in processing these thoughts in these exercises. Since these exercises are medi-

underneath the level of physical appearances and separate forms, you are one with all that is. Be present as the watcher of your mind -- of your thoughts and emotions as well as your reactions in various situations. Be at least as interested in your reactions as in the situation or person that causes you to react. Notice also how often your attention is in the past or future.

The word enlightenment conjures up the idea of some superhuman accomplishment, and the ego likes to keep it that way, but it is simply your natural state of felt oneness with Being. It is a state of connectedness with something immeasurable and indestructible, something that, almost paradoxically, is essentially you and yet is much greater than you. It is finding your true nature

Look at every path closely and deliberately. Try it as many times as you think necessary. Then ask yourself, and yourself alone, one question . . . Does this path have a heart? If it does, the path is good; if it doesn't it is of no use. Both paths lead nowhere; but one has a heart, the other doesn't. One makes for a joyful journey; as long as you follow it, you are one with it. The other will make you curse your life. One makes you strong; the other weakens you. - Don Juan What you are aware of you are in control of; what you are not aware of is in control of you. -Anthony de Mello Better to stop short than fill to the brim. Oversharpen the blade, and the edge will soon blunt. Amass a store of gold and jade, and no one can protect it. Claim wealth and titles, and disaster will follow. Retire when the work is done. This is the way of heaven. -Lao Tzu I went to the woods because I wished to live deliberately, to front only the essential facts of life, and see if I could not learn what it had to teach, and not, when I came to die, discover that I had not lived. -Henry David Thoreau Your whole idea about yourself is borrowed-borrowed from those who have no idea of who they are themselves. -Osho

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India Post

February 12, 2010

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Afghanistan - Watching from the sidelines RAGHAV SHARMA

here should be no distinction between a good Taliban and a bad Taliban." This postulation made by India's Foreign Minister SM Krishna during his pre-conference parleys with British Foreign Secretary David Miliband, is a reflection of the failure of the Indian policy establishment to assess the changing political dynamics that have been underway in Afghanistan. Krishna's relegation to the second of the three rows of seats, this despite India being the largest regional and fifth largest international donor, was deeply symbolic of the peripheral role that India is likely to play in shaping the future of Afghanistan. There are three other key indi-

ring hollow President Obama's much touted "regional approach" to resolving the Afghan crisis. A walk down the streets of any major city or small village in Afghanistan is testimony to the immense goodwill that India enjoys in Afghanistan. This can also be attested to by empirical evidence through successive opinion polls conducted in Afghanistan. Consider for instance the poll by the BBC, ABC and ARD National survey of Afghanistan in January 2009 which showed that 74 per cent of Afghans perceived India in favorable terms, thus putting it much ahead of any other foreign country. Ironically Pakistan, which is the least favored amongst all nations

mense popular goodwill into effective political and diplomatic leverages as also its sluggishness in coming to terms with the political alignments and re-alignments that have been underway in Afghanistan for quite a while now are a major diplomatic faux pas. Ironically, for the first time in decades New Delhi's vision of a stable, moderate and democratic order take root in Afghanistan finds congruence with that of Washington's. However Washington continues being fixated on a Pakistani centric approach to resolving the Afghan problem, even though Islamabad's strategic vision in Afghanistan has more often than not been at cross purposes with that of the US. The onus now lies on Indian diplomacy and political leadership to display far greater

A strategy to cultivate some elements from the Taliban should not be completely alien to New Delhi, which has often deployed both the carrot and the stick to engage non-state actors from Kashmir to the Northeast Afghanistan's President Hamid Karzai (r.) shakes hands with Britain's Foreign Secretary David Miliband (2nd r.) as Prime Minister Gordon Brown (l.) and United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon applaud, after his speech at the 'Afghanistan: The London Conference' in central London.

cators that have reiterated the slow but steady relegation of India to the periphery in Afghan affairs. First, the decision at the London Conference to create a US$500 million trust fund to buy out the Taliban and thus in effect buy an exit strategy for the West from Afghanistan, showed that India's position of not making any distinction in the degrees of Talibanism had no takers. Second, following the conclusion of the conference Krishna's statement that India was willing to give a try to the 'good Taliban' reflected a marked departure from New Delhi's traditional stance. It was if anything a grudging acceptance by New Delhi of the writing on the wall that had long been evident, but which New Delhi chose not to read. Finally, Turkey's decision to shut the door on New Delhi at the security conference on Afghanistan, which it hosted in Istanbul, has only reiterated India's position as becoming an increasingly inconsequential player in Afghanistan. These developments also

by the Afghans, seems poised to play, once again, a major role in shaping the political contours in Kabul. Thus it is clear that Indian diplomacy has failed to effectively capitalize either on India's much appreciated and effective presence in the civilian sphere, or on its soft power potential in Afghanistan. India certainly has legitimate security concerns in the region, especially in light of past experiences be they in Kashmir or the hijacking of IC 814. India most certainly would not wish to see Afghanistan revert to Taliban influence and once again emerge as an epicenter of extremism and drug trafficking. However, having cultivated little substantive ties with Pashtun figures outside the rank and file of the Kabul government and with changes having occurred in the composition of the Northern Alliance, which was once patronized by India, over the last decade New Delhi's options in Afghanistan appear to be increasingly limited. Furthermore, India's inability to convert its constituencies of im-

dexterity in addressing the new set of challenges it faces in securing its interests in the immediate neighborhood. A strategy to cultivate some elements from the Taliban should not be completely alien to New Delhi, which has often deployed both the carrot and the stick to engage non-state actors from Kashmir to the Northeast and this approach has met with varying degrees of success. Thus, in this regard it might be useful for New Delhi to draw upon lessons from some its own experiences, of course bearing in mind a crucial difference that in Afghanistan the nascent Afghan state and the international community at large will be bargaining with the Taliban from a position of weakness. If India aspires for a place at the global high table, it must also demonstrate its ability to rise to and effectively address some of the challenges it faces in its immediate neighborhood. A failure to do so will ensure that India will remain no more than a mute spectator, forced to watch from the sidelines, as some of the seminal events unfold that will shape the future of South Asia in the years ahead. Courtesy IPCS

India Post India for Indians

ohan Bhagwat is a different kind of RSS Chief. His predecessors used to pretend to be indifferent to politics but privately wielded the power strings of the BJP and decided its policies. Bhagwat is openly doing so. This may invite controversy but there is no doubt that Bhagwat has shown guts in taking the Shiv Sena lion Bal Thackeray in his own den. In spite of the Sena being the BJP's poll partner in Maharashtra, he has denounced its Maharashtra for Maharashtrians, or more pertinent, Mumbai for Mumbaiites diktat and declared that "Mumbai is for all Indians. The whole of India is for all Indians and all Indians can earn their livelihood anywhere in India." This is a fact guaranteed by the Constitution but nobody in politics utters it for fear of attracting Shiv Sena goondaism. The Congress party in Maharashtra, which rules the state in alliance with the NCP of Sharad Pawar, should have been the first to assert this right and acted upon it. Instead, in a craven submission to Sena politics, it came out with an order requiring that taxi driving permits in Mumbai will be given only to those who know Marathi. After Bhagwat's booming challenge to Sena's mischievous doctrines, Central Congress leaders have found courage to follow his lead. Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram has described the 'Maharashtrians only' thesis of the Shiv Sena and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena as "pernicious" and Rahul Gandhi has also thrown in his cudgels for Biharis' right to work anywhere in India, including Maharashtra. Indeed, the remarks of Congress leaders are hypocritical as they are themselves in power in Maharashtra and are in a position to protect the victims of goondaism but are afraid to do so. The Congress government in Maharashtra, led by a weak chief minister Ashok Chavan, is behaving more like a "B" team of the Shiv Sena. And the Central leaders are merely giving reactions. The latest target of the Shiv Sena is Shah Rukh Khan who has joined the issue of Mumbai for Indians and had also spoken in favor of Pakistanis figuring in the IPL cricket tournament. Theatres in Mumbai have taken down posters of Shah Rukh's forthcoming film on orders of the Shiv Sena. It is not because they subscribe to the views of the Sena. They fear the goondaism would affect their business. The Congress government in Mumbai doesn't seem to exist in the face of such intimidation. The BJP seems to have found new spine in this controversy. In fact it is electoral calculations which are forcing the BJP to change its stance. The Sena's blatant chauvinism is tarnishing the BJP's image as a nationalist party. The demoralising results of the assembly elections have provided further impetus for the BJP to re-think its options. Associating with the Sena has damaged the BJP's prospects with many of its voters from north India. A large section of Gujarati voters, who have traditionally supported the party, were also alienated. During the parliamentary elections too, the BJP saw its hold over the middle class, urban electorate, once its core constituency, slipping not just in Mumbai, but all over India. A break with the Shiv Sena therefore may be on the cards. But where are the tallest leaders of the Congress in this controversy? Manmohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi are maintaining a studied silence on this issue of national importance which needs a bold standing up to parochial claims. The Congress party has a history of patronizing separatist and regional movements in the country for the sake of narrow gains. It may be losing an opportunity to correct this image.

February 12, 2010

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February 12, 2010