IndiaPost_02-19-2010 by Ghanshyam Bisht

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Krishnamoorthi vying for Illinois Lt. Governor Details on page 13

Details on page 16

February 19, 2010

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Periodical Postage

OBAMA CERTIFIES U.S., INDIA NUKE DEAL

India Post News Service

AIIS offers fellowships for India studies

VOL 15, No. 806

dent Obama to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton Feb 3. The memorandum said the agreement between the government of India and the International Atomic Energy Agency for the application of safeguards to civilian nuclear facilities, as approved by the board of governors of the IAEA on August 1, 2008 (the 'Safeguards Agreement'), has entered into force. Details on page 6

SAALT activists gather for regional meet

Vijay and Sujal

Truck accident kills two Indian youth Details on page 13

Two lakh Indians live illegally in US, says report Details on page 7

Indian American team wins NYC BigApps contest

Details on page 14 Details on page 42

Haiti quake relief musical extravaganza Details on page 18

Indian guilty in brokerage hacking Details on page 7

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

Is funeral pyre cremation necessary? Last week’s result

Should India resume talks with Pakistan? YES 63%

NO 37%

RIGHT TO CREMATION RITES: Davender Ghai (C) is raised aloft by friends and family outside the High Court in London, on February 10. The elderly Hindu won the right to be cremated on a traditional funeral pyre in Britain, after a ruling by the Court of Appeal in London. Davender Ghai, who moved to Britain from Kenya in 1958 and is the founder of the Anglo-Asian Friendship Society (AAFS), was refused a permit for an open-air cremation site in Northumberland, northeast England, in 2006

Indian police officials briefed by FBI

Stanford student Banerjee wins journalism award Details on page 15

CONTENTS Bollywood ---------------------- 24-25 Classifieds --------------------- 45-47

India Post News Service

Community Post -------------- 13-20 Date Book -------------------------- 48

Edit Page --------------------------- 50 HealthScience Post --------- 21-23 Horoscope ------------------------- 40 Immigration Post ------------- 36-39 Life Style ----------------------- 26-28 Philosophy ------------------------- 49 Publisherís Diary ------------------ 4

Special Agents briefing members of the Indian Police Service. Pic: Rebecca Callahan, FBI

Real Estate ------------------------ 35 TechBiz Post ------------------- 42-44 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 29-32

Certified by “CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL Readership 117,765”

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RISK MANAGER. “IN OUR CULTURE, YOU ALWAYS HEAR ABOUT HEART DISEASE IN MEN, BUT MY REPORT WAS AWFUL — WORSE THAN MY HUSBAND’S. BUT NOW I’M BETTER THAN EVER.” —Meenu Mehta

PEOPLE OF SOUTH ASIAN DESCENT HAVE 4X THE RISK OF HEART DISEASE.

Meenu Mehta knew her cholesterol was too high, but she had no idea she was at risk for coronary heart disease until her evaluation at the South Asian Heart Center. There, she underwent an in-depth assessment for risk factors common in people who trace their origins to India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Sri Lanka. The Center performs a comprehensive lab test that also includes emerging genetic markers not included in conventional screenings. Besides identifying the complete risk profile, the Center counsels participants on healthy lifestyle changes, with a special sensitivity to South Asian culture and diet. Participants receive a personalized, comprehensive heart health plan, with ongoing phone and e-mail coaching to help them stay on track. The changes Meenu made in her routine helped her lose 15 pounds and lower her cholesterol from 350 to 142. As Meenu says, “I feel like I have someone watching over me. I have to respond, and that helps me succeed.”

Don’t miss Scarlet Night, the South Asian Heart Center’s annual fundraiser. Saturday, March 20, 6:00–11:30 p.m. Register at www.southasianheartcenter.org/scarlet.

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February 19, 2010

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he last couple of weeks I have been seeing in the news from India a controversy over the new Shah Rukh Khan movie My Name is Khan. Whatever the reasons of those trying to stop the movie from being screened there, I wanted to share some of my own concerns and why I have an issue with such movies. On his recent trip to New York to promote the film, Shah Rukh Khan went to great lengths to convince reporters that his movie was not about terrorism or 9/11 or racial profiling. So we take it that it is a love story that happens to be set in the US, happens to have 9/11 as its backdrop, happens to have a protagonist named Khan, and he happens to be a victim of profiling because of his Muslim name. This is not the first film coming out of India that has a good looking hero who sings and dances and romances a beautiful girl, and oh, by the way, he happens to be a terrorist or well, has been forced to become one because he has been unfairly profiled by the police, and of course is justified in bombing and blowing up innocent people and public places. In these movies the protagonist is always the popular hero, even if he is a terrorist, and the system, which is desperately trying to protect innocent people from being blown up, the villain. Now, how about a Shah Rukh Khan or Aamir Khan playing the role of a cop who gets killed while trying to stop a terrorist; or a non-glorified terrorist who thinks nothing of killing people owing more to a warped mindset than a justifiable ideology or cause (though no ideology or cause can ever justify killing innocent people). Bollywood has always had this dangerous tendency - in the late '70s they made a slew of movies that glorified smugglers; in the '80s the mafia and contract killers; and in the past decade, terrorists. Is it just Bollywood or is it a sign of the times that the good guys are no longer considered heroes?

Romesh K Japra rkjapra@indiapost.com

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Vidya Balan is fascinated with the poetic wooing style of old-timer Naseeruddin Shah rather than of Arshad Warsi.

Cover Story: Obama certification The US-India civil nuclear deal moved up a step closer to implementation with President Barack Obama’s certification.

Community: Fighting again

Raja Krishnamoorthi wants to be considered for a Democratic nomination for Illinois State lieutenant governor.

Health: plantar fasciitis When your first steps in the morning cause severe pain in the heel of your foot, you may be suffering from plantar fasciitis.

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A team of Indian Americans were the Grand Prize winners in the inaugural NYC BigApps competition.

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Travel: Kanchipuram Kanchipuram is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in India and the seat of the Shankaracharya.

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Obama certifies US, India nuke deal India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The US-India civil nuclear deal moved up a step closer to implementation with President Barack Obama certifying that India has formally agreed to provide access to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), of its civilian nuclear reactors. The certification was sent in a memorandum by President Obama to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton Feb 3. The memorandum said the agreement between the government of India and the International Atomic Energy Agency for the application of safeguards to civilian nuclear facilities, as approved by the board of governors of the IAEA on August 1, 2008 (the 'Safeguards Agreement'), has entered into force. It further states that the government of India has filed a decla-

The Safeguards Agreement between India and the IAEA would prevent India from using its civil nuclear facilities for its nuclear weapons program, as some critics had argued ration of facilities as per the Safeguards Agreement that is consistent with the Separation Plan presented to the Parliament of India on May 11, 2006, taking into account the later initiation of safeguards that was anticipated in the Separation Plan. The US state department in its report to Congress in support of the agreement also said the Safe-

guards Agreement between India and the IAEA would prevent India from using its civil nuclear facilities for its nuclear weapons program, as some critics had argued. The Presidential Determination (No. 2010-04), signed by President Obama, which was released by the White House reads: "Certifications Pursuant to Section 104 of

the United States-India Nuclear Cooperation Approval and Nonproliferation Enhancement Act Regarding the Safeguards Agreement Between India and the International Atomic Energy Agency Pursuant to section 104 of the United States-India Nuclear Cooperation Approval and Nonproliferation Enhancement Act (Public Law 110-369), I hereby

Indian police officials briefed by FBI India Post News Service

providing coverage for more than 200 countries, territories, and islands. In 2000, the FBI opened a legat in New Delhi covering the sub-continent that includes India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. The legat in New Dehli works closely with law enforcement officials abroad to ensure the safety of its territories. The legal attaché office keeps in close contact with other fed-

ney General Guidelines, FBI policies, and interagency agreements. Joint Secretary Balasurbramaniam said, "It was a pleasure to meet with various members of the FBI's New York Division. We share a similar mission to protect our citizens and our infrastructure from acts of terrorism and enjoy the cooperation that we share with the FBI." Supervisory Special Agent

Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) of the New York Office's Counterterrorism Division Rich Frankel added, "Discussions with our partners from the IPS improves cooperation between our organizations on a wide variety of issues. Many of our investigations focused on terrorism have an international nexus, and the best way to deter such activity is to work together with our partners

NEW YORK: Members of the FBI New York's Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) provided a briefing to delegates from the Indian Police Service (IPS) led by Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs New Delhi Bhamathi Balasurbramaniam. The purpose of this meeting was to provide IPS members with an overview of the JTTF, as a follow up to Indian Home Minister P. ‘It was a pleasure Chidambaram's visit to the FBI's to meet with various New York Office last year. In light of members of the the Mumbai attacks, one of his FBI's New York Ministry's main objectives was to de- Division. We share velop a JTTF infrastructure similar to a similar mission to the FBI's. protect our citizens For more than six decades, the and our infrastrucFBI has stationed agents and other ture from acts of personnel overseas to help protect terrorism’ Americans back Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) Rich Frankel with Special Agent Pete Desai, Office of Public Affairs, and Joint Secretary Bhamathi Balasurbramaniam. Pic:Rebecca Callahan, FBI home by building relationships with principal law enforcement and in- eral agencies, Interpol, foreign po- (SSA) Aristedes Maharias added, from foreign nations to neutralize telligence services around the lice, and security officers in Wash- "Our relationship with the IPS is threats to our societies. These visglobe and facilitating a prompt ington, and national and interna- one which we continue to expand its will help to fortify our relationand continuous exchange of in- tional law enforcement associa- as we work toward common goals ships with international law enformation. Today, it has legal tions. International liaison and and objectives. We were happy to forcement and intelligence agenattaché offices-commonly known information sharing are con- host members of the IPS… to dis- cies who share our common goal as legats-and smaller sub-offices ducted in accordance with Execu- cuss critical topics shared by both of protecting both of our nation's in 75 key cities around the globe, tive Orders, laws, treaties, Attor- the FBI and our partners abroad." most valuable resources."

determine and certify that: 1. The Agreement between the Government of India and the International Atomic Energy Agency for the Application of Safeguards to Civilian Nuclear Facilities, as approved by the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency on August 1, 2008 (the "Safeguards Agreement"), has entered into force; and 2. The Government of India has filed a declaration of facilities pursuant to paragraph 13 of the Safeguards Agreement that is not materially inconsistent with the facilities and schedule described in paragraph 14 of the Separation Plan presented in the national parliament of India on May 11, 2006, taking into account the later initiation of safeguards than was anticipated in the Separation Plan. You are authorized and directed to publish this determination in the Federal Register."

US has never propped up India: Gates WASHINGTON: United States has dismissed Pakistani perceptions that it was propping India, saying that New Delhi "did not need us for that purpose" and has advocated that the two neighbors resolve their differences bilaterally. "I would tell you that the United States clearly has not or has ever propped up India. India has not needed us for that purpose and, in fact, those familiar with the history would know that our relationship with India was fairly strained until not too many years ago," Defense Secretary Robert Gates has said. Gates comments came in response to questions fired at him during his recent visit to Pakistan, full transcript of which have released by the Pentagon. In his exchanges with Indian and Pakistani leaders, Gates said both the countries had said they would like to resolve the differences bilaterally. "Having an open and candid and completely transparent dialogue... seems to be the best way to avoid misunderstanding," Gates said in key remarks as New Delhi and Islamabad are set to resume their stalled bilateral talks. He said there were misgivings both in Islamabad and New Delhi on the role the two countries were playing in Afghanistan and it was essential that in any future dialogue such a misunderstanding should be cleared.-PTI

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Indian pleads guilty in brokerage hacking scheme India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Chicago-based Jaisankar Marimuthu, a native of Chennai, India has pleaded guilty in an international brokerage hacking scheme, Feb 7. Marimuthu pleaded guilty to participating in an international fraud scheme to hack online brokerage accounts in the US and use them to manipulate stock prices to reap thousands of dollars in illegal profits and faces up to 7 years in prison. 35-year-old Marimuthu has been charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, securities fraud, computer fraud and aggravated identity theft, and to one count of aggravated identity theft before US District Magistrate Judge FA Gossett III in Omaha, Nebraska on February 5. Marimuthu, who was extradited to the US in June 2009 for trial following his arrest in Hong Kong, faces - besides prison time -- a maximum fine of $500,000 and three years of supervised release following his prison term. Sentencing has been set for April 26 before US District Court Judge Laurie Smith Camp. According to the indictment, Marimuthu was part of a conspiracy operated out of Thailand

and India between February and December 2006 in which the prices of thinly-traded securities were fraudulently inflated by hacking into brokerage accounts in the US and then illegally using the accounts to make large unauthorized purchases of securities in

Marimuthu, who along with co-conspirators made thousands of dollars in illegal profits, had pleaded not guilty to the charges in June 2009. Apart from Marimuthu, two other Indians Chokalingam Ramanathan and Thirugnanam Ramanathan were charged the name of unsuspecting customers. After the price of the securities had been artificially increased or "pumped up" through the bogus trading, Marimuthu admitted that the conspirators' own holdings of the securities would be sold at profit.

At least 95 customers and nine brokerage firms in the US have been identified as victims of the fraud, according to the Department of Justice. Marimuthu, who along with coconspirators made thousands of dollars in illegal profits, had pleaded not guilty to the charges in June 2009. Apart from Marimuthu, two other Indians Chokalingam Ramanathan and Thirugnanam Ramanathan were charged in March 2007 in the international 'hack, pump and dump' scheme. Thirugnanam, 37, had pleaded guilty on June 2, 2008 to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, securities fraud, computer fraud and aggravated identity theft. Following his arrest in Hong Kong, Ramanathan was extradited on May 25, 2007, to the US. He was sentenced to two years in prison by Judge Camp and ordered to pay USD 362,000. He returned to India upon completion of his sentence. 36-year-old Chockalingham, charged with one count of conspiracy, eight counts of computer fraud, six counts of wire fraud, two counts of securities fraud and six counts of aggravated identity theft, remains at large.

'Malicious campaign' will only strengthen my resolve: Chatwal WASHINGTON: Hitting out at the "malicious campaign" against him after the government awarded him the Padma Bhushan, NRI hotelier S S Chatwal has said that this had only strengthened his resolve to work for strengthening Indo-US ties. Denying that he carried any "background and baggage," Chatwal said none of his fund raising offers or his personal financial contributions had ever been turned down. Chatwal, 63, said if the allegations were true, his fund raisers and contributions to election campaigns of top Democratic party leaders had not been accepted over the past several decades. "Certainly that has not been the case," Chatwal told PTI. Chairman of Indian American Democratic Committee, Chatwal said he is "pained" and "personally hurt" at the "malicious campaign". Responding to reports that his offer to raise USD 10 million for the Obama Campaign was turned down, he said: "The matter of the

fact is that he (Obama) was all booked up with events across the country and a time and date could not be nailed down". "Such malicious campaign is personally hurting. But, it only strengthens my resolve to continue to work and redouble my efforts for deepening of ties between

Denying that he carried any â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;background and baggage,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Chatwal said none of his fund raising offers or his personal financial contributions had ever been turned down the two greatest democracies of the world," he said. Chatwal said he has worked tirelessly without any personal expectations to build and strengthen the relationship between India and the

US for the past several decades. In the run up to the 2008 presidential polls, he raised millions of dollars for Hillary Clinton during primaries, and also made political contributions to Joe Biden's campaign, as also for top Democratic Senator Christopher Dodd, who is now CoChair of the Senate India Caucus. "To all these leading Democrats and presidential candidates, I gave my personal checks and none of them were returned by any of them," Chatwal said. Over the years he has also made contributions to the campaigns of Democratic leaders like Charles Schumer of New York, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and US Congressmen Gary Ackerman, Joe Crowley, Nita Lowey, Anthony Weiner. "All these donations are governed by strict rules and regulations by the Federal Election Commission and ethics rules of the US Congress itself, would have been returned if there had been any blemish against me and my contributions considered tainted," Chatwal said. -PTI

Two lakh Indians live illegally in US, says a report WASHINGTON: As many as two lakh Indians are living illegally in the United States, a latest official report on illegal residents for the year 2009 has claimed. This is a jump of 40,000 as against 160,000 illegal Indians living in the US in the year 2008. This jump in unauthorized Indians living in the US comes at a time when there is a decline in the number of illegal foreign residents from 11.6 million in January 2008 to 10.8 million in January 2009, a drop of seven per cent. "Between 2000 and 2007, the unauthorized population grew by 3.3 million from 8.5 million to 11.8 million," said the report Estimates of the Unauthorized Immigrant Population Residing in the United States: January 2009 released by

the Department of Homeland Security. "The number of unauthorized residents declined by 1.0 million between 2007 and 2009, coincident with the US economic downturn. The overall annual average increase in the unauthorized population during the 2000-2009 period was 250,000," the report said. Mexico with 6.7 million (62 per cent) continued to be the leading source of unauthorized immigration to the US. The next leading source countries for unauthorized immigrants in 2009 were El Salvador (530,000), Guatemala (480,000), Honduras (320,000), the Philippines (270,000) and India (200,000), the report said. -PTI

American national detained at Delhi airport NEW DELHI: A 61-year-old American national was detained at the Indira Gandhi International airport here last night minutes before he was to board a Qatarbound flight after a knife was found in his hand baggage. Reminiscent of the case of terror suspect David Headley, arrested in Chicago in October last for allegedly plotting terror strikes in India, Kensinghton Carmichael is a convert from Christianity to Islam. The New York resident changed his religion some 40 years ago. Carmichael, who was flying to Doha in a Qatar Airways flight, is being questioned by security agencies and the American Mission had been informed about

the same, sources said. The New York resident had arrived in India for the first time a fortnight ago on a tourist visa and traveled to various parts of the national capital. . Carmichael, who has a tourist visa to India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, came here from Pakistan. He had visited Pakistan and Bangladesh on earlier occasions also. Delhi Police Special Cell and IB is questioning him. According to airport sources, during the security check CISF found the knife concealed between a herbal plant 'Shilajit'. He was then handed over to the police. -PTI

Tahawwur Rana seeks date for a pretrial conference CHICAGO: Ahead of his February 24 hearing, LeT terror suspect Tahawwur Rana has sought a date from a court here for a pretrial conference to ensure a fair and expeditious trial for him, according to his lawyer. Federal prosecutors filed an 8page motion in US District Court asking that during Rana's February 24 status hearing, a date in March be set for the pretrial conference. Responding to the motion, Rana through his lawyer Patrick Blegen said that a hearing "prior to the February 24 status appearance is more appropriate." "Defendant has been in cus-

tody under extremely onerous conditions for nearly four months. No discovery has been tendered since well before the return of the superseding indictment. And, the issues to be addressed in a pretrial conference relate primarily to scheduling," Blegen said in his four-page response filed in a Chicago court. Objecting to the timing requested by the government, he said the conference should be held "promptly" and "a month's time should not be necessary for the government to determine what will be provided to the defense and when it will be provided".-PTI

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Pakistan indicates readiness for talks with India ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has indicated its readiness for the Foreign Secretary-level talks on February 25, saying the two sides need to "move forward" but insisted on resumption of composite dialogue covering Kashmir and other outstanding issues that is "meaningful and result-oriented". Responding to the two sets of dates proposed by India for the talks, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that February 25 is "not a bad date" for the talks. Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao had proposed February 18 and 25 as dates for the talks with her Pakistan counterpart Salman Bashir. The composite dialogue between the two sides was suspended in the wake of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. "I believe we should move forward. Common sense states that talks should be held as soon as possible," Qureshi said. "What is important is that we start talking. Of course we feel that these talks should be the re-start of the composite dialogue and take it up from where we left off. After all, all the issues that both sides want to raise are included in the composite dialogue," he said

in separate interviews to Geo news channel and the News daily. "We have many outstanding issues on our agenda, like the Kashmir issue that India recognizes. There is the waters issue on which there should be talks," he said. "If you do not hold talks on these issues, the talks will not be beneficial. Do you want progress or just talks? We want progress

‘I believe we should move forward. Common sense states that talks should be held as soon as possible,’ Qureshi said and not talks for the sake of talks. We want meaningful and resultoriented talks," he said. . Qureshi was replying to a question on whether India would be willing to include issues like Kashmir in the upcoming parleys. It was "really not that important" where the parleys are held, he said, add-

ing Pakistan would approach the talks with an open mind. Referring to the Kashmir, Qureshi pointed out that even India had started "quiet diplomacy with the Kashmiris". At the same time, he said, the sharing of river waters is important because Pakistan "is an agriculture-based country and 90 per cent of our water is needed for agriculture". Pakistan will also raise the issue of "strategic balance" in the upcoming talks, he said. Following India's recent offer for holding talks, Qureshi chaired an inter-ministerial meeting to assess the proposal and to formulate Pakistan's response. A statement issued by the Foreign Office after the meeting made it clear that Pakistan favored the resumption of the stalled composite dialogue to resolve all outstanding issues. Asked if India wanted the upcoming talks to focus solely on terrorism, Qureshi replied that Foreign Secretary Rao had told Pakistan's High Commissioner to India Shahid Malik that "all issues can be put forward and discussed". "They can raise whatever issue they want and we will do the

Gilani says India did not want to discuss Kashmir ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said India did not want to hold talks with Pakistan on the Kashmir issue even though the composite dialogue, which covered the dispute, was the only way forward. "In fact, they (India) do not want to talk about Kashmir," he told reporters on the sidelines of an official function. He was replying to a ques-

tion on India's proposal for talks at the Foreign Secretaries-level. Following a meeting between Pakistan's High Commissioner to India Shahid Malik and Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao in New Delhi, officials of the two sides were in touch to work out dates and modalities for talks, Gilani said. Gilani made it clear that the stalled composite dialogue, which

covers eight subjects including the Kashmir dispute, is the "only way forward" for the two countries. India put the composite dialogue on hold in the wake of the Mumbai terror attacks in November 2008. It had linked the resumption of the peace process to Pakistan taking action against the perpetrators of the attacks that killed nearly 180 people. -PTI

Pak denies Kashmir issue was resolved through backchannel ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has negated claims that the Kashmir issue was close to settlement through back channel diplomacy between Islamabad and New Delhi, with the country's foreign minister saying there was no mention of such developments in the records of the Foreign Office. Shaha Mehmood Qureshi said neither he nor the people of Pakistan have "any knowledge" about the proposal claimed to have been evolved by the previous military regime of President Pervez

Musharraf. "Any such proposal was never debated and there is no record of it in the Foreign Office," he said in an interview to a TV news channel. Former Foreign Minister Khurshid Mehmood Kasuri has claimed that India and Pakistan had come close to resolving the Kashmir issue and it had been just an announcement away. Kasuri has said the proposed solution was kept secret and there was no record of it in the Foreign Office. Musharraf too has said that an

agreement had been reached in backchannel talks with India on Kashmir on the basis of proposals mooted by him. Qureshi said despite the importance of back channel diplomacy, disputes are finally solved through formal efforts. Four rounds of the composite dialogue with India were completed during the tenure of the previous government while, one round was held by the current Pakistan People's Party-led government, he said. -PTI

same. If we are to have a meaningful engagement, there should not be conditions. There will be no benefits if conditionalities are imposed. Conditions will prevent the dialogue from moving forward," he said. . In reply to a question on whether Pakistan would seek an assurance from India that it would not break off the talks if there was another Mumbai-like terrorist at-

‘It would not be correct to say there was only nominal progress or that the four rounds were not beneficial. I believe there was incremental progress’ tack, Qureshi did not give a direct answer but said: "The terrorist incident in Mumbai caused a setback in ties. Such incidents are occurring in Pakistan almost every day and nationals of many countries are involved in attacks that kill innocent people. "Have we snapped ties with

these countries and stopped talking to them? We have not broken off ties with governments. Should we tackle this problem jointly or break off ties and strengthen the hands of forces who want just that to happen?" he added. The objective of the inter-ministerial meet was to consult all stakeholders and discuss India's offer in the backdrop of the meeting between High Commissioner Malik and Foreign Secretary Rao. Qureshi said he would share the outcome of the meeting with the political leadership and "then we will chart a way forward". Pakistan has no concerns about the dates suggested by India, February 18 or 25, and the talks could be held in such a manner that they did not clash with other programs of the Pakistani Foreign Secretary, he said. Asked about the progress made in the four rounds of the composite dialogue that began in 2004, Qureshi said: "It would not be correct to say there was only nominal progress or that the four rounds were not beneficial. I believe there was incremental progress and confidence-building measures were adopted on peace and security and Kashmir.-PTI

'India, Pak agree on roadmap to resolve water dispute' LAHORE: India and Pakistan have agreed on a roadmap for resolving differences over the sharing of river waters in the next six months, a senior official has said. Pakistan's Indus Waters Commissioner Jamaat Ali Shah informed the media about the roadmap and said both sides had decided to hold two additional meetings, one at the end of March and another in June, for "dispute resolution". Both meetings will be in addition to the mandatory one scheduled for May, he said. Briefing journalists at the conclusion of a five-day visit by a team led by his Indian counterpart G Ranganathan, Shah claimed the Indian side had agreed to Pakistan's demand that all water disputes should be settled within an "agreed timeframe". "Indian has agreed that the solution of all water disputes must be time-bound as open-ended talks become counter-productive and breed confusion and frustration," he said. Pakistan also conveyed its concerns to India, including worries about "dwindling water supplies in western rivers", he said. Pakistan was given preferential rights

to the western rivers under the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960. "The Indians have been told that reduction in supplies is affecting water transfer operation," Shah said. "We also pressed on the Indians that the free flow of information, as required by the Indus Waters Treaty, should be made more efficient because obstructions in this regard may create problems for both sides and for the implementation of the treaty," Shah said. The Indus Waters Treaty protects the rights of both the upper riparian country (India) and lower riparian country (Pakistan). Both need to stick to their roles for implementing the pact, he said. Shah said Pakistan had also asked the Indian side to take steps to ensure that deforestation and environmental impact did not affect river flows on their side "as it was their duty." The India delegation, during its five-day visit, inspected four water works on the Ravi and Sutlej rivers. Before leaving for India, G Ranganathan told reporters that both countries had signed an international treaty which had an elaborate dispute resolution mechanism.-PTI

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February 19, 2010

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'Kashmiris wanting to return from PoK are welcome' NEW DELHI: In a significant gesture, the government has said it was ready to "welcome" Kashmiris who had gone to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) if they were ready to return after giving up militancy. "The idea that any Indian who had crossed over to PoK and wishes to return India is certainly welcome," Home Minister P Chidambaram told reporters backing the proposal mooted by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. "The idea is accepted... This idea must now be translated into a scheme," the Home Minister said, adding it was one of the recommendations of one of the Working Groups appointed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for recommending measures to address problems of Jammu and Kashmir. Replying to questions at a briefing after meetings of the Cabinet and Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, Chidambaram said the return could be facilitated through a scheme which will entail identification, screening, travel, debriefing, rehabilitation and reintegration. Noting that "PoK is actually an Indian territory", he said the gov-

ernment "should facilitate the return" of those who had gone across the Line of Control for "some reasons". Significantly, his statement counters the view of his Cabinet colleague and former J and K Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad who has questioned the idea of

understood to have conveyed their desire, through various channels, to return home. . "We will consult all sections of opinion in Jammu and Kashmir," Chidambaram said noting that there were two parties, National Conference and Congress, in the ruling coalition in the state.

mulated to allow Kashmiris to return from PoK. Abdullah had said at the Chief Ministers' conference on internal security here, "To encourage more militants to return to the state and manage their transition to civilian life, a new surrender and rehabilitation policy of militants is under

Replying to questions at a briefing after meetings of the Cabinet and Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, Chidambaram said the return could be facilitated through a scheme which will entail identification, screening, travel, debriefing, rehabilitation and reintegration allowing the return as he apprehended that they could come here to "create trouble". Thousands of Kashmiri youths had crossed over to PoK from 1989 to join militant ranks. While many of them infiltrated back, a large number has not returned. Around 800 of them are

P Chidambaram

The Leader of Opposition in Jammu and Kashmir would also be consulted on this issue, he said, adding "Then we will formulate a scheme. It will take time." Chidambaram said this when asked to comment on Abdullah's proposal that a surrender and rehabilitation policy should be for-

active consideration of my government". However, Azad questioned the idea, apprehending it could be used as a cover by Pakistan to push foreign militants into India. "Who will take guarantee of these youth willing to return? How can you prove that these are the

same youth who had gone to that side for arms training and are now willing to come back on their own choice? Some foreign terrorists can take advantage of this move," said the Union Health Minister and senior Congress leader from the state. "Pakistan has not handed over the accused involved in the Mumbai terror attacks so far. Who can trust them in this case? There are chances of adopting a strategy to push militants (into India) taking cover of this surrender policy," he said. The issue of return of Kashmiri youth from PoK shot to prominence in 2006 when a delegation of leaders from Jammu and Kashmir, including Omar Abdullah and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, went to Pakistan. Several Kashmiris bottled up in PoK met them and pleaded to facilitate their return, saying they were "homesick". The issue later had its echo in the state Assembly but the government stated that there was no proposal to facilitate the return of these renegade militants. Transport Minister Ram Sharma, however, said the matter would be taken up at appropriate time. -PTI

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February 19, 2010

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Oz says attacks on Indians affected ties with India MELBOURNE: Concerned over its falling reputation in the wake of a spate of attacks on Indian students, Australia has acknowledged that there has been a "negative shift" in its ties with India. Dennis Richardson, the head of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), said the relationship between Australia and India has been damaged by the attacks on Indian nationals in recent months, the AAP reported. "There has been a shift and that

shift has been negative," he told a Senate hearing. "There has been damage to our reputation and standing." Richardson said his Department was trying to counter that by bringing Indian "opinion leaders" to Australia to gauge the atmosphere of the country. Earlier, Foreign Minister Stephen Smith had said that "we needed to treat the relationship like a Test match and work with diligence, dedication, application

and perseverance day in and day out to extend the partnership." The report said the crisis was being dealt with at the highest levels of government, as the inquiry hearing Richardson and National Security Adviser Duncan Lewis had met Helen Silver from the Victorian Department of Premier and Cabinet. But that was only once and meetings had since become telephone hook-ups, Richardson said. -PTI

Opposition leader slams Victoria govt for attacks on Indians MELBOURNE: An Australian opposition leader has criticized the Victoria government for failing to tackle the racist attacks on Indians in the state. "Victoria has a serious and increasing problem with racist attacks on Indian students, but the state government is in denial and blaming the victims. Many of the assaults were the result of 'racist violence' but Premier John Brumby had failed to confront the issue," leader of opposition Ted Baillieu said here. He condemned the advice of Victoria police chief Simon Over-

land to Indians to "look like poor" to avoid attacks. Baillieu, who was addressing a gathering of Australian and Indian business leaders, alleged that the problem of racial violence was allowed to escalate with government providing excuses that brought international condemnation. "... this government's continued attempt to blame the victim by suggesting he or she had brought it upon themselves through their conduct or the provocative carrying of iPods, computers and other such nonsense,"

he said. "There were some who say these were not racial attacks. To those let me say this, those assaults they were racially abused," he said. Reacting to his comments, State Premier spokesperson said Baillieu should know better than to use divisive and inflammatory comments that he knows are not true. "Baillieu's deceptive treatment of this issue makes things worse not better," Fiona Macrae was quoted as saying in the media. -PTI

Victoria refuses to release details of attacks on Indians MELBOURNE: Admitting that "problematic". the statistics of the attacks on InBecause information about dians in Australia were "problem- crimes affecting a particular racial atic", Victorian police chief Simon group was based on a subjective Overland has refused to release assessment of the victim's appearthe details saying it can be "mis- ance the data was used only for interpreted". internal purposes, he said. Overland refused to release the Overland also said he regretstatistics on the grounds that they ted telling Indian students to "try are "subjective and open to inter- and look as poor as you can" to pretation". avoid becoming a victim of crime. He said information about a Overland said his 'look poor' comvictim's race was based on a sub- ments were made as a "flippant jective assessment of their ap- aside". pearance - and Indians were in"I regret making the comment cluded in the broad category of because I think it has been abso"south Asian appearance". Such a category â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The problem with putting the could also include those from countries other data out there is that it will be than India such as misunderstood and we see this Nepal, Pakistan and Sri all the time,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; he was quoted as Lanka, he said. "The problem with saying in the 'The Age' putting the data out newspaper there is that it will be misunderstood and we see this all the time," he was quoted as saying in the 'The lutely misrepresented and I regret Age' newspaper. having the media there or the disOverland has earlier com- cussion because that hadn't been mented that Indians were over- fairly and accurately reported," he represented as victims of robber- said. ies which was different than VicJustifying his decision not to torian premier John Brumby who release the statistics that would said "assaults on Indian students leave many questions about the are under-represented in terms of ongoing attack crisis unanswered, population share". he said, "Why would I have come Overland said his comments out and said Indians are over-repwere based on police intelligence resented if I could have fudged which relied on data that was and said we don't know?" -PTI

Indian food campaign against violence a big hit

IT GURU: Hindu devotees perform puja (prayers) inside a Shiva temple in Bangalore on February 10. The temple houses the largest statue of Shiva - the Hindu God of destruction - in the southern Indian state of Karnataka and is known to be popular among the information technology community

MELBOURNE: "Vindaloo against violence", a mass Indian cuisine dining event to protest against attacks on Indians and to make Australians let their taste buds do the talking here, is becoming a sell out. Concerned over her city's reputation in India being dubbed as 'Racist', a Melbournian lady is spearheading the novel idea - 'Vindaloo Against Violence' - to spread Indian food flavor in a bid to show the immense support to the community. A brainchild of Mia Northrop, a digital media designer, who said the idea had started as a grassroot campaign but soon exploded on social networking site Facebook registering more than 10,000 participants. She said that the idea had even caught Prime Minister Kevin Rudd's attention who had joined the campaign through the microblogging site Twitter. "We were looking for an idea to embrace the sizable Indian commu-

nity here and we found no better way to bind Australians to India than through world famous Indian flavors", Northrop was quoted by 'Business Times'. "The idea is that you just go to your local Indian restaurant and just dine on Indian food as a way of embracing the Indian community," she said adding "[My husband and I] wanted something that the maximum number of people could get behind, so it just kind of popped into my head," Northrop said. . Attacks against Indians including beatings and robberies have mushroomed over the last two years, threatening to damage ties between the two countries. Australian officials who initially sought to downplay racism as the reason behind the sharp spurt in attacks against Indians are now pitching for taking a stronger line of cracking down hard on the culprits.-PTI

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February 19, 2010

India Post 11

www.indiapost.com

VGS meet in Ahmedabad a big success

Naren Patel, VDS Vice president from Chicago,â&#x20AC; honoring Aviation Minister Praful Patel on behalf of VGS Committee

CHETNA SHAH India Post News Service

AHMEDABAD: Vice President of Vishwa Gujarati Samaj North America and front ranking community activist from Chicagoland, Naren Patel, said here that the Gujarati community in Chicagoland along with its coun-

hosted by Vishwa Gujarati Samaj at Ahmedabad Education Society ground in Ahmedabad from Janaury 22 to 24. The whole purpose behind the conference was to provide a unique platform for interaction among Gujaratis from different parts of the world and have a dialogue on various issues concerning Gujaratis and the

Telecom Wizard Sam Pitroda with Industrialist Mukesh Ambani

terparts across USA would be celebrating 50 years of the establishment of Gujarat State this may with great pomp and enthusiasm. Patel was participating in the fourth world Gujarati Conference and International exhibition

world community at large. In a talk to this paper, Naren Patel said that it was the vibrantGujarati spirit that unified this community world over and members from 21 countries participated in this three days Parishad

in Ahmedabad. More than 2,000 Non Resident Gujaratis (NRG) sang Zaverchand Meghani's 'Kasumbi No Rang' during an NRG meet. Celebrating everything that is Gujarati -- people, literature, culture and the unflagging entrepreneurial zeal, the 4th World Gujarati Conference saw one of the highest conglomerations of Gujarati Diaspora. The highlight of the three-day event organized by VGS was NRI award and entertainment. Beena Patel from Chicago represented United States and spoke about the dream of Uma Shankar Joshi's "Hum Gujarati Vishwa Nivasi." She lauded the wholesome efforts by VGS to bring all Gujaratis from all over the world to celebrate Golden Anniversary of Gujarat. During the event, litterateurs like Dr Dhirubhai Thaker, Kumarpal Desai, Ratibhai Chanderia and Krushna Chandra Patel, who has made remarkable contribution to Gujarati language, were felicitated. Naren Patel presented a Plaque of Honor to Aviation Minister Praful Patel. Another highlight was the international exhibition. It showcased success of Gujaratis in fields like industry, education, and real estate among others through theme pavilions. There was also a business meet, wherein delegates from different corporate houses talked about the inspiring 'Swarnim Gujarat' story and explore opportunities in the state. There were varied attractions for all those coming to the Conference : Theme Pavilions showcasing the heritage & glorious history of Gujarat State, specially designed handloom & handicraft stalls, meets with special focus on B2B meets for generating business, and showcasing new sunrise industries such as LPO, KPO, medical tourism, etc, one-on-one meet with leaders from the field of industry, commerce, politics and films, live demonstration on

Rathore stabbed by youth outside court CHANDIGARH: Former Haryana DGP SPS Rathore was stabbed thrice in the face by a youth with a knife that left him bleeding outside a local court hearing his appeal in the Ruchika molestation case. 68-year-old Rathore was stabbed by the youth identified as Utsav Sharma, a resident of Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, in the left cheek. A bleeding Rathore covered the wound with a handkerchief before getting into his car.

While the youth, who was pursuing a course in film production in Ahmedabad, used his left hand to stab the former IPS officer, he delivered punches with his right hand on Rathore's right cheek. He also attempted to attack the former DGP on the arm, but the police personnel present there overpowered him and nailed him down as he tried to run in the midst of a commotion outside the court. The youth was standing among media persons and said

to be pretending to take pictures of Rathore. The reporters were waiting to talk to him and others after the court proceedings which were held in-camera. Rathore was taken to Sector 16 Government General Hospital, police sources said. The youth has been taken to the nearby Sector 17 Police Station. Rathore was completely taken by surprise by the sudden attack. His lawyer-wife Abha was following him. -PTI

Naren Patel with Speaker Ashok Bhatt

Ayurvedic therapies, yoga, meditation camps, etc. and the last but not the least huge food court serving traditional Gujarati cuisine. Morari Bapu, renowned spiritual leader, felicitated Jayantilal Chande from Tanzania, Ukabhai Solanki from USA, Hemant Shah from Canada, Dr Gautam Bodiwala

cussions took place on various topics like Gujarati language: Yesterday, today & tomorrow', global warming and violent attacks on Indians in Australia 'Rang Kasumbal Dayaro', by well-known Dayaro artistes like Shahabuddin Rathod, Abhesinghi Rathod, Bihari Hemu Gadhavi and Sangeetaben Labadiya greatly enthralled 2000 plus attendees. Another eye catching performance was Manthan, a dance performance by specially-challenged girl students and a play 'Gandhi to Gandhi' by VGS President Krishnakant Vakharia and VGS Vice school children. President USA Naren Patel Attending the meet was Union from UK, Kalpana Rawal from Civil Aviation Minister Praful Kenya with special non-resident Patel, technocrat Sam Pitroda, Indian awards for their achieve- Union Minister of State for Power ments in their respective fields at Bharatsinh Solanki, and political international level. A social worker leaders like Siddharth Patel, from state working for leprosy was Keshubhai Patel, Suresh Mehta given Gujarat Gaurav award. Dis- and Ashok Bhatt.

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February 19, 2010

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UN environment chief defends IPCC, slams climate skeptics UNITED NATIONS: The UN environment chief has come out in strong support of the embattled climate change panel led by R K Pachauri, hitting out at skeptics whose criticism of the body and its Indian chair, he said, had reached "witch-hunting proportions". Contending that a "typographical error" was at the root of the glacier error, Achim Steiner said: "The IPCC is as fallible as the human beings that comprise it". The 2007 report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate

Change erroneously claimed that the Himalayan glaciers would melt away by 2035. One original source of the IPCC report, he mentioned, had spoken of the world's glaciers melting by 2350, and not 2035 as came out in it, terming it a "typographical error". The head of the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) criticized the pundits and media who were rejecting the reality of climate change blaming them for causing confusion among the public. "Some strident voices are even

dismissing climate change as a hoax on a par with the Y2K computer bug," he wrote in an op-ed piece of the Turkish national daily, Today's Zaman. "As a result, public has become increasingly bewildered as unremitting questioning of the IPCC and its chair assumes almost witch-hunting proportions in some quarters," he added. "Indeed, caution rather than sensation has been the panel's watchword throughout its existence," Steiner wrote, defending the IPCC. -PTI

Zia's son involved in abortive weapons smuggling DHAKA: Former Bangladesh premier Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman was involved in an abortive smuggling of weapons, believed to be meant for ULFA militants in Assam, the detained prime accused in the country's biggest ever arms haul case has claimed. "Hafizur Rahman (the prime accused) has told the magistrate that he had met Tarique Rahman at Hawa Bhaban along with ULFA (United Liberation Front of Asom) leader Paresh Barua on April 1, 2004," the state-run BSS news

agency quoted a senior police official as saying. The official said Hafiz named many other stalwarts of Zia's past Bangladesh Nationalist Party-led four-party alliance government alongside intelligence and administrative officials at the fag end in his confessional statement made over the past two days before a magistrate. Hafiz's 43-page statement came after he was interrogated in custody for three days while he told the magistrate that he escorted

Barua to the Hawa Bhaban days ahead of the offload of the secret consignment. "Paresh Barua entered into the Hawa Bhaban leaving me outside at the entrance and had a meeting with Tarique Rahman," the official said quoting the statement as saying. Tarique, who is now the senior vice chairman of BNP, faces a number of graft and criminal cases, is now in London while the party leaders said he was being treated there. -PTI

Amitabh wears 'mundu' for Kochi function KOCHI: Springing a pleasant surprise on his fans, Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan turned up in Kerala's traditional attire, a gold bordered 'mundu' (dhoti), at a function here. "When in Rome do as Romans do," quipped the film icon to an amused gathering that included Union Minister of state for Agriculture, K V Thomas, Malayalam sup e r s t a r s Mammootty and Mohanlal and the city's who's who. Bachchan presented the Manorama News c h a n n e l ' s 'Newsmaker of the year 2009' award to Resul Pokkutty, who won the Oscar award for the best sound designer for ' S l u m d o g Millionnaire'. Later at an interaction, an amused Mammooty, told Bachchan that he was expecting him to be in formal attire

and had himself turned up in a suit. Bachchan's reply was, "When in Rome do as Romans do", as the audience burst into laughter and applauded. When actress Archana Kavi, who made a critically acclaimed debut in Lal Jose's 'Neela Thamara' told Bachchan that the attire suited him, the 67year-old veteran replied that it was not the first time he was wearing the 'mundu'. "Whenever I come to Kerala, I buy mundus and use it at home," he said. T h a n k i n g Mohanlal for the invitation to act in Malayalam films, Bachchan said it was a "big recognition" and was expecting good opportunities. The actor said that there was a lot that he could learn from the Malayalm film industry and its actors. -PTI

Mahakumbh crowds at Haridwar

An Indian Sadhu (Holy Man) holds a mace and a fistful of US dollars and Indian rupees as he poses with a foreign tourist at Pilot Babaís Camp in Haridwar on February 11

Thousands of devotees from across the globe assembled for the evening ëaartií or prayer of the Mighty Ganga with oil lamps at Har Ki Pauri prior to the 1st Sahi Snan (Royal Bath) on Maha Shivrati during the Maha Kumbh in Haridwar on February 10. According to astrologers, the ëKumbh Fairí takes place when the planet Jupiter enters Aquarius and the Sun enters Aries and its origin is found in the Hindu creation myth, the Churning of the Ocean of Milk

Desi News SAALT activists gather for regional meet India Post News Service

Census campaign in immigrant communities SURESH BODIWALA

COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA

13 India Post

www.indiapost.com

USHA BODIWALA

February 19, 2010

Details on page 18

Krishnamoorthi vying for Illinois lieutenant governor India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Former Deputy Illinois State Treasurer Raja Krishnamoorthi narrowly lost his bid for Illinois State Comptroller in the Democratic primaries held Feb 2. Krishnamoorthy was a favorite contender with several local newspapers endorsing him and having raised more than $1 million for his campaign - the most ever raised by a non-incumbent Comptroller candidate at the primary stage, according to records posted on the Illinois State Board of Elections website. Krishnamoorthi faced State Senator David E. Miller in the Democratic primary and lost by just about 7,000 votes. Interestingly, the Journal Star reported last week that

Krishnamoorthi now wants to be considered for a Democratic nomination for Illinois State lieutenant

thought the pairing would make sense because he could help Quinn grab more votes, a key con-

Raja Krishnamoorthi

Krishnamoorthi was the policy director and a senior advisor for Barack Obama in the 2004 US Senate campaign and an advisor for Obama's 2008 Presidential campaign

governor and run as Governor Pat Quinn's running mate. The paper said Krishnamoorthi

cern for Democrats who don't want to lose the state's top elected post to a Republican in November.

"The primary message of our candidacy was being a voice of reform, transparency and accountability in state government. You need that in the lieutenant governor position as well," Krishnamoorthi was quoted by the paper. Krishnamoorthi was the policy director and a senior advisor for Barack Obama in the 2004 US Senate campaign and an advisor for Obama's 2008 Presidential campaign. In April 2009, he resigned from his position as Deputy Treasurer of Illinois and opened a campaign exploratory committee in his bid to get a nomination for state comptroller. He was a valedictorian at Richwoods High School in Peoria and graduated with honors from Princeton University and Harvard University Law School.

Truck accident kills two Indian youth KAPILA SHAH

Details on page 15

Seniors Pariwar celebrates Republic Day

IT professionals celebrate unique R-Day

CHICAGO: Two Indian youth in their mid twenties were killed in a truck accident near Indiana while traveling back to Chicagoland with their other family members after celebrating Sankranti and Kite festival in Atlanta. Vijay Patel and Sujal Patel were the victims of an alleged reckless driving by a truck operator when their van was hit from behind by his truck on Hwy I 65 near Franklin Town of Indianapolis, IN. There were six others age 6 to 22 in the rental van that was involved in the accident and they met with minor to serious injuries. They were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. The two Patel families from a Southside suburb of Chicago, Bridgeview, had gone to Atlanta Georgia for a family vacation and celebration of Kite festival, a big tradition in Gujarat. They were twenty four in all and had rented two vans. The other

There were six others age 6 to 22 in the rental van that was involved in the accident and they met with minor to serious injuries. They were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment van that had twelve members in it was driven by one Piyush Patel and it was following the first van at a good distance. They are all safe. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 15

Vijay and Sujal who died in the accident

Community Across America

India Post

February 19, 2010

www.indiapost.com

Community activists gather for regional conference India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT), the South Asian advocacy group held its first regional conference, "Empowering South Asians in New Jersey," on January 30-31 at Montclair State University. Cosponsored by 12 local organizations, participants ranged from representatives of local organizations, young professionals, artists and elected officials. Qudsia Raja, SAALT New Jersey Outreach Coordinator noted that "this conference offered South Asians from diverse backgrounds to come together to share information and identify ways to take action in order to build a stronger community here in New Jersey." Participants attended informational panels on the 2010 Census, the immigration system and leadership development. They were also invited to build key skills in workshops focused on getting involved with local government and being campus activists. Samir Pandya, a participant, shared, "My goal was to get a better idea of what issues

are out here facing our community. This has only made me want to explore these issues more." Vega Subramaniam, SAALT Director of Programs and Partnerships, observed that "providing a space for local organizations to connect with one another and to community members from around the state helps

Sardar, board member of the New York chapter of Council for the Advancement of Muslim Professionals. The evening's keynote was given by Gouri Sadhwani, Deputy Executive Director for Organizing, Membership and Campaigns at Amnesty International USA. Participant Aneeza Agha summed up the

More than 80 participants joined the conference that was open to all New Jersey South Asians to learn about the issues affecting the community, to develop leadership skills, and to identify strategies for building stronger communities. The weekend was filled with workshops, panels, professional development sessions and networking opportunities all of us to make changes that will significantly strengthen the New Jersey South Asian community." The conference also included an awards reception to honor ChangeMakers in the region. The honorees included Govinda Rajan, President of the Elders Volunteer Service in East Brunswick, and Sheheryar

experience by saying, "There is a lot of work being done in our community and it looks like there is a lot more to be done. So hopefully we can all continue to work towards that." SAALT plans to convene follow-up discussions and actions in New Jersey over the following months. Please contact

Indian talent shines among youth of Chicago SURESH BODIWLA

CHICAGO: There was more "Super" to last Sunday than just football if you were anywhere near Furama Restaurant in Chicago's Chinatown, on January 31where all ethnic groups gathered to Support Youth of Chicago. The auditorium was full of faces from around Asia, but from Indian view point it was Raahul Singh who led a group of talented artists. This talent group was representing www.RaahulSinghGill.com, a Chicago based event and entertainment Management Company

RaahulSinghGill.com teaches various forms of dance, instrument training and voice coaching for all ages. They put together a talented team RaahulSinghGill.com started the afternoon with an Indian classical dance called, Bharatanatyam, performed by Sahiti Madireddy who has been dancing since the age of 3. Following in her unique steps along with the marvelous singing of Shahvar Hussain was a Bollywood-style fashion show. Chicago's leading designer Diya Khan, the Model Coordinator of

Rahul Singh, (extreme right) the brain behind RahulSinghgill.com talent management with a group of artists.

Desi Models Agency showcased hot and pret collection of Regal Jewels. Sizzling ramp of models Viraj Shah, Nilofur Khan, Dharti Patel, Usman Chaudhary, Shruti Thakkar, Vidhi Joshi, Krystell Barraza, Raahul Singh Gill, Alpesh Chaudhari, and Mukkaram Attarwala. However the greatest attraction of the day was hip-hop dance performance by Next, Epikz Crew/Sonia Performing Arts Inc. another branch of RaahulSinghGill.Com. RaahulSinghGill.com teaches various forms of dance, instrument training and voice coaching for all ages. They put together a talented team to help our community get back in touch with their roots and values. Founded by Raahul Singh Gill who is a multi-

talented artist, the group has started getting noticed not only among Indain Americans but other Asian groups and the main stream Americans. In the past one decade or so, Raahul has carved out a name for himself as a Dancer, Model, Actor, Lyricist, and choreographer. RaahulSinghGill.com Management team believes in giving everyone an equal opportunity to show his or her talents. RaahulSinghGill.Com is a Life style and Event Management company which is run by the youth for the youth. They are setting the stage for Chicago's youth to stardom. "Our goal is to showcase our culture and represent our values," said Rahul in a talk to this paper.

SAALT at saalt@saalt.org to become involved in the New Jersey SAALT Circle. More than 80 participants joined the conference that was open to all New Jersey South Asians to learn about the issues affecting the community, to develop leadership skills, and to identify strategies for building stronger communities. The weekend was filled with workshops, panels, professional development sessions and networking opportunities. The event was organized in partnership with American Friends Service Committee (AFSC-NJ); Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR-NJ); Council for the Advancement of Muslim Professionals (CAMP-NYC); Manavi; Hindu American Seva Charities; Network of Indian Professionals (NET-IP/NY); New Jersey Immigrant Policy Network (NJIPN); Sikh Coalition; South Asia Center - University of Pennsylvania; South Asian Mental Health Awareness in Jersey (SAMHAJ); South Asian Total Health Initiative (SATHI); United Sikhs; and Sodexo and Montclair State University.

Will Bollywood follow Hollywood in vegetarianism? KRISHNA RAJ

CHICAGO: Many Hollywood and other celebrities are increasingly turning vegetarian on health and ethical considerations. Since Bollywood looks to Hollywood for "inspiration" for "story, theme and music", many wonder if Bollywood celebrities will also go vegetarian. Nand Kapoor, a former head of Association of Indians in America (AIA) says that Oscar nominated Natalie Portman (Closer), who has been a vegetarian for 20 years, is credited with the view that his change over to vegetarianism was because it underlines the importance of life for all living. "So three times a day you make a decision not to eat things that have been killed," he told an interviewer in London. Besides Portman, other celebrity vegetarians include Grammy winner country singer Carrie Underwood, Golden Globe nominated Tobey Maguire (SpiderMan). Beatle Sir Paul McCartney's recently put his weight behind MeatFree Monday movement, which aims at persuading public to go vegetarian once a week to slow global warming, whose other celebrity proponents reportedly include actors Kevin Spacey and Woody Harrelson; actresses Joanna Lumley and Laura Bailey; singers Sharleen Spiteri, Chris Martin, and Sheryl Crow; comedians David Walliams, Matt Lucas, and Ricky Gervais; media personality Kelly Osbourne; industrialist Sir Richard Branson; poet Benjamin Zephaniah; scientist Sir

David King; Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman; socialite Zac Goldsmith; chefs Giorgio Locatelli, Oliver Peyton, Arthur Potts Dawson, Yotam Ottolenghi and Skye Gyngell; food writers Mark Hix and Nigel Slater; restaurateur Oliver Peyton Among others.

Nand Kapoor, a former head of Association of Indians in America (AIA) says that Oscar nominated Natalie Portman (Closer), who has been a vegetarian for 20 years, is credited with the view that his change over to vegetarianism was because it underlines the importance of life for all living. "So three times a day you make a decision not to eat things that have been killed," he told an interviewer in London American celebrity magazine "People" writes about fitness specialist and television star Bob Harper: "So what does he eat to refuel? Rich, nutritious vegetarian meals that he prepares himself!" Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 17

Community Across America

February 19, 2010

India Post 15

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Census campaign in immigrant communities SURESH BODIWALA

CHICAGO: The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) along with partner organizations across Chicago and suburbs launched the "New Americans Count" campaign last week here to ensure that immigrants are counted in the Census 2010. Announcing this at a ethnic media meet at Hema's Kitchen on Devon Avenue in Chicago, Flavia Jimenez, Director of the New Americans Initiative at ICIRR, said that "immigrant communities are traditionally undercounted and the role of the census fellows is critical and will ensure a correct count of the local immigrant population, bringing vital resources where they are most needed." At the beginning of January dozens of community organizations met to gather the tools necessary to ensure that immigrant communities get counted in this year's census. Fourteen young and determined individuals -Census Fellows - have been working for the past 4 weeks within local community-based organizations with high-immigrant populations. The goal is to reach out to 66,000 households and increase the count in immigrant community by at least 20,000 people, increasing resources coming in to the immigrant neighborhoods, and ultimately, the state. This will be possible with the help of the ethnic media and cooperation from communities. The ICIRR's coordinated Census campaign "New Americans Count" is a partnership between ethnic Community based organizations, the State of Illinois, national partners, and the support of private foundations through the Count Me in Illinois 2010 Census Initiative. The campaign targets Asian, South Asian, Latino, Polish, and Arab communities across Illinois. The event had the participation of Census Bureau representatives, State Senator Antonio Munoz, State Representative Maria A. "Toni" Berrios and Candidate Elect for Cook County Commissioner District 7, Jesus "Chuy" Garcia, the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Asian American Institute, the Mexican American Legal Defense and Education Fund, along with national partners the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO), and the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights,. "There has been no other time in our history that the presence and

L-R Elisa Alfonso - Chicago Census Director, Kasia Rivera - U.S. Census Bureau, Flavia Jimenez - Director New Americans Initiative, Fred Tsao - Policy Director, Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights

voice of the immigrant community has been so important for this State," stated Rep. Berrios. "We have become citizens, voted and now it is time to be counted so that we can write laws and implement policies that are representative of the cultural makeup of

crease the overall response rate among immigrants living and working in the United States, whether they are citizens or non citizens," said Juan Salgado, Board President of ICIRR. "This effort will have direct repercussions in vital infrastructure but most

At the beginning of January dozens of community organizations met to gather the tools necessary to ensure that immigrant communities get counted in this year's census. Fourteen young and determined individuals -Census Fellows - have been working for the past 4 weeks within local communitybased organizations with high-immigrant populations Illinois in 2010." There are over $400 billion in federal funds that get reimbursed to states depending on the census count. For neighborhoods, this means that schools, clinics, libraries and many services are allocated depending on the count. "By supporting the 2010 Census, we will help raise awareness of this important initiative and work to in-

importantly will have a tremendous impact on the legislative districts that are redrawn after the census, impacting the political power in the immigrant community." Many immigrants may associate the word "census" with "fear" and "distrust" as the result of census taking methods employed in their homelands or they may have concerns that it is unsafe to provide responses

to the Census Bureau, as a result of fears about deportation. "Many families in the areas where we worked are hesitant about filling out the forms, because of fear,"· said Fatrnah Tabally from Arab American Action Network, a census fellow working in the Southwest suburbs. "We are working really hard informing our communities about the positive outcomes that will come after they send the census forms back and assuring them that there is no need to fear because of the high level of confidentiality involved in the process." Following the press conference, dozens of census fellows and volunteers wearing yellow vests hit the Pilsen area to knock doors and talk to immigrant communities about the importance of being counted. The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights is a statewide coalition of more than 100 organizations dedicated to promoting the rights of immigrants and refugees to full and equal participation in the civic, cultural, social, and political life of our diverse society. For more information, visit ICIRR's website at www.icirr.org

Will Bollywood follow Hollywood Stanford student Banerjee wins journalism award India Post News Service in vegetarianism? tration in technology and policy. Cont’d from page 14

Harper reportedly takes pride in creating vegetarian meals that aren't boring and his favorite veggie recipe for the New Year given in "People" is: Roasted vegetable salad with vinaigrette dressing. Jainism promotes strict vegetarianism insisting on ahimsa (not harming living creatures) and nonkilling, and renouncing animal slaughter and meat eating. Even

Hinduism, especially those following Swaminarayan and strict Vaishnav traditions, shun non vegetarian and tamsik food like onion and garlic Rajan Zed, a Hindu leader argued that there was extensive protection of life in Hinduism and ahimsa was a command. Zed urged more world celebrities to come out in support of vegetarianism, thus contributing to a healthier world and helping the environment.

NEW YORK: Stanford student Devin Banerjee has been awarded the 2010 Daniel Pearl Memorial Journalism Internship, which will have him working in one of the Wall Street Journal's foreign bureaus this summer. The Daniel Pearl Memorial Journalism Internship is awarded annually to an outstanding Stanford student journalist. Editor in chief of the Stanford Daily, Banerjee is working toward

The internship was established to commemorate the work and ideals of Daniel Pearl, a Stanford graduate a degree in management science and engineering, with a concen-

He expects to graduate in 2011. The internship was established to commemorate the work and ideals of Pearl, a Stanford graduate and Wall Street Journal foreign correspondent who was kidnapped and murdered in Pakistan in 2002. Banerjee is from Calabasas, in Southern California, and he has previously held internships at the San Jose Mercury News and the JoongAng Daily in Seoul, Korea.

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Indians in St Louis celebrate Republic Day ASHWIN PATEL India Post News Service

ST. LOUIS: India Association of St. Louis celebrated India's Republic Day on the weekend following 26th January, that is on Saturday, January 30. Children enthusiastically paraded with American and Indian flags to the stage where it was hoisted. Flag hoisting was followed by singing of American and Indian national anthems led by children and actively participated by all present at the event. The celebration was marked by an enlightening speech by Vijay

Flag hoisting was followed by singing of American and Indian national anthems led by children and actively participated by all present at the event

Children with Indian and American flags

Kumar Buddhiraju who stressed on the need of remembering the roots, sacrifices and values of the founding leaders who fathered the constitution of India. A trivia game was conducted for the children and winners Shruti Sharma and Poorva Sheth were declared winners of 1st and 2nd prize. The event was attended by prominent members of the community. It ended with refreshments and an appeal to the community members by India Association of St. Louis and the Hindu Temple for generously donating to help the victims of the Haiti earthquake. India Association will be celebrating Spring Festival on 27th March at Mahatma Gandhi Center.

Members enjoys after-event refreshments.

Members of India Association elected new committee for 2010 as follows Board of Directors: PresidentGirdhar G Sharma, President Elect-

Pradip K Das, Secretary- Sundar Varanasi, Treasurer- Vijay Kumar Buddhiraju, Sundari Nori, Venkat Pulumati, Hema Patel, Sanjiv Shekhar and Paritosh Sheth.

Singing National Anthem of America and India

AIIS offers fellowships for India studies India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The American Institute of Indian Studies (AIIS) has invited applications from scholars from all disciplines who wish to conduct their research in India. AIIS especially encourages applicants in fields such as Development Studies, Natural Resources Management, Public Health, and Regional Planning. Junior fellowships are given to doctoral candidates to conduct research for their dissertations in India for up to eleven months. Senior long-term (six to nine months) and short-term (four months or

less) fellowships are available for scholars who hold the Ph.D. degree. Scholarly/Professional development fellowships are available to scholars and professionals who have not previously worked in India. Creative and Performing Arts fellowships are available to practitioners of the arts of India. Eligible applicants include 1) US citizens; and 2) citizens of other countries who are students or faculty members at US colleges and universities (this rule does not apply to US citizens). Applications can be downloaded from the web site www.indiastudies.org.

February 19, 2010

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Seniors Pariwar celebrates Republic Day USHA BODIWALA

CHICAGO: It was a combination of Republic Day celebration and a happy get together for members of United Senior Pariwar (USP) Chicago when they met last month at Kathy Hall in Des Plaines The three hours meet starting at 5-30 p.m. was greatly enlivined by the visiting dignitaries from India- Ranjeet Deshmukh a former Congress Committee President Maharashtra and Kailash Vijayvargiya Industry Minister Madhya Pradesh. They not only addressed the meet but enthralled the audience by singing patriotic songs. Close to 100 USP members and other invitees thronged the meet. The meeting started with the lamp lighting ceremony by Ranjeet Deshmukh and Kailash Vijayvargiya. USP leader Suresh Shah acted as Master of Ceremony. Ramanbhai Patel, President of the Pariwar welcomed the guests and said that the membership has swelled to over 250 this year. The Pariwar was started in

co-ordinated by Ramanbhai Patel, who is also the chairman and founding member of the organization. He thanked dignitaries for

Usha Kamaria, president Indian community of Niles Township, thanked visiting dignitaries from India and Ramanbahi Patel for a successful meet

Members of United Seniors Pariwar with dignitaries from India and guests (L-R) Ranjeet Deshmukh former Congress committee president Maharashtra, Mrs. Kailash Vijayvargiya, Dina Mody, Suresh Shah - United Pariwar Secretary, Usha Kamaria, Ramanbhai Patel- United Pariwar President, Hasmukhbhai Soni- United Pariwar Vice President, Kailash Vijayvargiya, Industry Minister Madhya Pradesh and Vimal Vyas, guest from India

can culture, are still very much Indians. Suresh Bodiwala, a community activist, addressed the

Kailash Vijayvargiya praised Ramanbhai Patel for bringing seniors in Chicagoland together and for providing a platform to them for organizing various activities April 2008 and the sharp rise in membership is a testimony of the yeomen serve that the Pariwar is rendering to the community, Suresh Shah said. Kailash Vijayvargiya praised Ramanbhai Patel for bringing seniors in Chicagoland together and for providing a platform to them for organizing various activities. He then sang the Bollywood hit Aye Mere Pyare Vatan. Ranjeet Deshmukh praised young artists who had performed meritorious dances. He said these young children, though brought-up in Ameri-

gathering too. Usha Kamaria, president Indian community of Niles Township, thanked visiting dignitaries from India and Ramanbahi Patel for a successful meet. She enthralled everyone with her mellifluous voice singing Lag Jaa Gale Phir Hansi Raat Ho Na Ho. Executive board members of United Senior Pariwar are Chairman - Mafatbhai Patel, President Ramanbhai Patel, Vice President Hasmukhbhai Soni and Secretary - Suresh Shah. The program was

Truck accident kills two Indian youth Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 13

Ajay Patel, brother of Vijay said that it was so sudden and shocking that they could not fathom what happened. According to him, two others and he were just standing near the side of the road waiting for the other van to come near before proceeding and this truck hit their van from behind killing Vijay and Sujal. The truck driver, 42-year-old Randall Chriscoe of North Carolina was also injured and was also

taken to the hospital for treatment. The local police are investigating

The truck driver, 42-year-old Randall Chriscoe of North Carolina was also injured and was also taken to the hospital for treatment the cause of the accident and are awaiting toxicology report.

giving their time to visit United Senior Pariwar and spoke about the organization's objectives and variety of activities undertaken by it since its inception.

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February 19, 2010

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IT professionals celebrate unique Republic Day India Post News Service

MILPITAS, CA: Global Indian IT Professionals Association GIITPRO (formerly ITPIO) -held a unique nature of India's Republic Day event for IT Professional at Milpitas. GIITPRO is a non-profit organization that primarily focuses on fostering the leadership and personal development for IT professionals of Indian Origin. It has

patriotic fervor. On occasion of the India's Republic Day, Khanderao Kand, announced the new name for the association of Indian IT Professionals as GIITPRO. "In a very short period of less than a year, this young organization grew in the chapters in North America, Singapore and in India. In all the places, the IT professionals emphasized the Indian IT Profession-

‘In a very short period of less than a year, this young organization grew in the chapters in North America, Singapore and in India. In all the places, the IT professionals emphasized the Indian IT Professionals are evolved as 'Global’ chapters in the Silicon Valley, Contra Costa County, Denver, Washington DC, Seattle, Singapore, Pune, Hyderabad and Bangalore. The event was conducted in a very vibrant, enthusiastic but professional atmosphere filled with a

als are evolved as 'Global'. Since the IT Profession as well as Indian IT professionals are Global in nature, we are regrinding the organization, IT Professionals of Indian Origin (ITPIO) as Global Indian IT Professionals Association. It also

Ash Kalra and Sucheta Kapuria with GIIPRO team

resonates better than 'Person of Indian Origin' especially in India ITPIO" This event was inaugurated by Ash Kalra, San Jose City Council

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Member. "Indians have been contributing so much to the country not just US but to the world, helping families and the future of theirs. I like the focus of the organization and got fascinated by its growth in the very short time. I am attending many events of Indian Republic Day but this is the only community organized event that is happening on the same day that of India's Republic Day" said Ash Kalra. Given that GITTPRO is 6

CEO of Droisys, Shishu Bedi, COO of AdMaxim and Sucheta Kapuria, Founder Member - TIE and past president of Indian Chamber of Commerce. IT Professional - What is so unique? The keynote was delivered by Bhaskar Enaganti, a well-known Serial Entrepreneur and currently the CEO of GloMantra Inc., a consumer Internet start-up. The keynote was very appropriate in the

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L-R: Khande Rao, Sanjiv Goyal, Shishu Bedi and Bhaskar

months old, doing 6th Event just in its first year, Kalra said that he would be looking for its 1st Anniversary on Aug 15th. The professionals from organizations like Cisco, eBay, PayPal, Oracle, Sun, Intel, NetApp, as well as early start-ups, and independent consultants attended the event. The event also had the gracious presence of Sanjay Goyal,

current times where knowledge revolution is happening across the globe and an IT professional is the centerpiece of it. "IT industry is the only industry which so democratic and truly centered around a common person" said Enaganti.

Cont’d on page 19

Community/California

February 19, 2010

India Post 19

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17 groups demand repeal of Oregon 14-year-old prodigy wows Carnatic music lovers ban on Sikh teachers VICTORIA TRUVER

India Post News Service

WASHINGTON, DC: As Oregon considers whether to repeal an antiquated ban on religiously observant teachers in its public schools, 17 interfaith, civil rights, and Bar association organizations, led by the Sikh Coalition, issued a group letter urging Oregon's legislature to overturn the ban and give equal opportunity to religious minorities in the state. Oregon's controversial ban on religious dress originated in the 1920s as an anti-Catholic measure and was supported by the Ku Klux Klan at a time of overt hostility toward racial and religious minorities. Other laws enacted at the same time discriminated against

Oregon's contro-

RIVERSIDE: On Saturday, Riverside's Shri Lakshmi Narayan Mandir quickly filled with an enthusiastic crowd avid for a classical Carnatic music concert. The main attraction was 14-year-old

versial ban on religious dress originated in the 1920s as an antiCatholic measure and was supported by the Ku Klux Klan Ajeet Singh

Japanese consumers and Latino business owners; those other laws have since been repealed, but Oregon is currently one of only three states in the United States

that forbid teachers from wearing religious dress in the public schools. Cont’d on page 20

IT professionals celebrate unique R-Day ing patriotic songs on the occasion of India's Republic Day. "The main objective of GITTPRO is to bring together IT professionals from India to educate them on the latest trends in

"This is the industry where established players can get challenged by one IT Professionalsuch is the democratic nature of IT industry". "IT Professional is unique - we as IT Professionals can make a difference with three key aspects skill, be network centric and exhibit risk taking profile" Bhaskar said. "There is no organization focused around IT professional and GIITPRO has taken a bold step towards it". The 'Speed Networking' was one of the key parts of the event where the attendees got a unique experience of getting connected with many other attendees in a very short and enthusiastic way. The event also had an interesting quiz on "What do you know

Jothy Yogarajah was accompanied by Aditya Prakash on mridangam

Jothy Yogarajah. Tall, lithe, attractive and very talented, Jothy is an amazing prodigy. She was accompanied by Aditya Prakash on mridangam. Yogarajah has studied for five years under veena and keyboard virtuoso Sri N. Muralikrishnan. Carnatic music is the classical music of South India. It is one of

Yogarajah has studied for five years under veena and keyboard virtuoso Sri N. Muralikrishnan

‘IT Professional is unique - we as IT Professionals can make a difference with three key aspects - skill, be network centric and exhibit risk taking profile’

Ash Kalra Raghavendra and Khande Rao Cont’d from page 18

Carnatic arangtram on October 24, 2009 at the Bellflower Auditorium. What does the future hold for this promising skilled artist? Jothy Yogarajah plans to continue her

about the IT Industry in the Silicon Valley" in which eight teams tested their knowledge. The event concluded with Sunita Rai, Nitin Shroff, Ram Joshi, Harish Kandpal, Raguram, and team from Swaranjali Group sing-

the industry, foster the leadership, advocate the issues related to IT profession, interacting with education policy makers and continuously improve the IT related education." said Khanderao Kand.

Attendees

Over 100 avid fans of classical music attended the program

the world's oldest and richest music traditions. The accomplished young lady has also studied Bharatnatyam for 10 years (since she was 4 years old!) Jothy presented her

training and become a professional musician and intends to share her knowledge as a future teacher. She is a perfect example of today's role model.

Community/California

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February 19, 2010

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Haiti earthquake relief musical extravaganza India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: A musical concert was organized at Jain Center of Southern California (JCSC), Buena Park, CA to raise funds for the survivors affected by the major earthquake that struck Southern Haiti on Jan 12. The efforts resulted in bringing together some of the well known artists of

gether in very short time. The event began around 8.30 pm at JCSC auditorium with the state of art technology with prayers recited by some of the artists. Following the prayers, started the musical fun-filled night that showed the power of humanity coming together as one to help the innocent survivors of Haiti. The night where some of the

The event was attended by 600 plus attendees, who also saw some breath taking dance performances choreographed by Yogendra Bhatt. Eventually, the night of musical extravaganza finished off around 00:30 with a song from Om Shanti Om where all performers performed together Southern California. The event was put together by some of the community leaders like Vipin Vadecha (Secretary, JCSC), Anil Shah (Member, JCSC), Dr. Jayesh Shah (President, JCSC),and Dr. Nitin Shah (Past President, JCSC). Mayuri and Kirti Patel worked very hard to bring many talented artists to-

most talented artists like Ashvin Patel, Ami Khetani, Anis Chandani, Bader Iqbal, Jayshree Gohil, Jwalant Parikh, Kirti Patel, Mayuri Patel, Mosami Shah, Mittal Patel, Pradip Patel, Pratik Patel, Rishi Thakar, Sangeeta Mehta, Girish Gohil, Suresh Bhatt, Vishal Ailawadhi volunteered their time & talent. Radha Saluja

and Raj Punjabi did excellent job as masters of ceremony. Performance was interrupted for a slideshow put together on post disaster Haiti. Yogesh Shah appealed to the audience for fund raising & many people contributed more at this time for this worthy cause. Vipin Vadecha as well as Dr. Jayesh provided their

17 groups demand repeal of Oregon ban on Sikh teachers Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 19

In a historic effort, Oregon House Speaker Dave Hunt is spearheading an effort to finally repeal this outdated law in the Oregon legislature.

How Oregon law impacts Ajeet Singh

To put Oregon's law into perspective, consider the effect it

would have on Ajeet Singh. Ajeet is a doctoral candidate at Columbia University and an alumnus of Teach for America, a prestigious community service organization that strives to eliminate educational inequity in public schools. Ajeet served as a history teacher for the neediest students at the toughest public schools in Brooklyn, NY, but his students

broke achievement records for the annual state examination. Despite Ajeet's demonstrated track record of excellence as a teacher, he would be prohibited from working as a public school teacher in Oregon because of his Sikh identity. The Sikh Coalition has appealed to those who support the cause of equal opportunity to sign the Sikh Coalition petition to the Oregon legislature.

condolences for what had happened & what people of Haiti are going through. The event was attended by 600 plus attendees, who also saw some breath taking dance performances choreographed by Yogendra Bhatt. Eventually, the night of musical extravaganza fin-

ished off around 00:30 with a song from Om Shanti Om where all performers performed together. The event raised a total of $ 36,000. JCSC is considering charities like Partners in Health, Food for the Poor, Americares to donate money to help Haiti Earthquake Survivors.

Health

Line

Autism risks in children of older mothers CHICAGO: A new study says a woman's chance of having a child with autism increases as she ages. It also says the risk may be less with older dads than previously thought. University of California at Davis researcher Janie Shelton is the lead author. She says that although the father's age can contribute, the risk is overwhelmed by the mother's age. Mothers older than 40 were about 50 percent more likely to have autistic children than those in their 20s. The risk for fathers older than 40 was 36 percent higher than for men in their 20s. Experts say older parents shouldn't be overly anxious, however, because the risk of a woman over 40 having an autistic child is still less than 4 in 1,000.- AP

More Conn. seniors need pneumonia injections HARTFORD, Conn.: A new report says one of three Connecticut seniors has not been immunized against pneumonia, despite warnings that flu complications can lead to the potentially deadly illness. The report says more than 33 percent of adults ages 65 and older in Connecticut had not received the one-time immunization shot. That is about the same as the nationwide rate. Oregon had the best immunization rate, with just under 27 percent lacking the shots. The lowest was in Washington, D.C., with 45.6 percent of seniors not immunized. -AP

Credibility key in September 11 health trials NEW YORK: As the first cases in a massive battle over illnesses linked to Sept. 11, 2001 near trial, an Associated Press investigation has found that several of the initial 30 suits contain inconsistent or exaggerated claims about how the workers got sick or how much time they spent at ground zero. One demolition worker who said he developed health problems after toiling for six months in the toxic ruins of the World Trade Center has actually been severely ill since the 1990s. In a previous medical malpractice case, he said he was so sick between 2000 and 2003 that he couldn't work regularly. He never mentioned Sept. 11 during his testimony in that lawsuit. -AP

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February 19, 2010

HHS secretary asks insurer to justify rate hike LOS ANGELES: The Obama administration has asked California's largest for-profit health insurer to justify plans to hike customers' premiums by as much as 39 percent, a move that could affect some 800,000 people. In a letter to the president of Anthem Blue Cross, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said she was disturbed to learn of the planned increases, calling them ``extraordinary.'' ``I believe Anthem Blue Cross has a responsibility to provide a detailed justification for these rate increases to the public,'' Sebelius wrote. She said the company should also make public what percentage of customers' premiums go to medical care versus administrative costs. In a statement, Anthem Blue Cross of California blamed the weak economy and rising health care costs for the rate hike, while pledging to reply to Sebelius' query promptly. The rate hike ``highlights why we need sustainable health care reform to manage the steadily ris-

ing costs of hospitals, drugs and doctors,'' the statement said. Sebelius said Anthem Blue Cross' parent company, WellPoint Inc., ``has seen its profits soar, earning $2.7 billion in the last quarter of 2009 alone.'' Not counting roughly $2.2 billion it gained from the sale of a pharmacy benefit management subsidiary, WellPoint earned $536 million

In a letter, Poizner asked for the insurer to delay implementing the rate hike for two months, until the actuary completes his review. ``The department has received numerous complaints from irate Californians describing how Anthem's proposed rate increases would cripple them financially,'' Poizner said. Anthem officials had no com-

'I believe Anthem Blue Cross has a responsibility to provide a detailed justification for these rate increases to the public,' Sebelius wrote in the final three months of last year. In a rare move, California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner is hiring an outside actuary to determine whether Anthem is abiding by state regulations and spending at least 70 percent of premium dollars on medical care as opposed to administrative costs. Poizner's spokesman, Darrel Ng, said that's the only recourse because rate hikes do not need to be approved by the state.

ment, saying the letter was being reviewed. President Barack Obama cited the Anthem rate hikes in an interview with CBS' Katie Couric as a reason to move forward with his health overhaul legislation, which is stalled in Congress. ``That's a portrait of the future if we don't do something now,'' Obama said. ``It's gonna keep on beatin' down families, small businesses, large businesses. It's gonna

be a huge drain on the economy.'' Health insurance analysts agreed that the rise in individual premiums will be echoed on a smaller scale in the rest of the health insurance market. Employer-based insurance and group policies are expecting 10 to 20 percent increases in the next year, said health industry consultant Robert Laszewski. About 13 million Americans purchased health insurance through the individual market in 2008, the most recent data available. Surges in their premiums can be explained by competing interests: Insurance companies are working to maintain earnings expectations in the face of rising costs, while rising premiums are driving healthy people to drop coverage, Laszewski said. ``The individual market really gets clobbered in an economy like this,'' said Laszewski, a former health insurance company executive. ``If it becomes unaffordable for (policyholders) and they're healthy, they tend to walk away, leaving sicker, more expensive patients on the policy.'' -AP

Painful inflammation of the plantar fascia

hen your first few steps out of bed in the morning cause severe pain in the heel of your foot, you may be suffering from plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammatory process of the plantar fascia in the foot. The plantar fascia is a flat band of tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes. Its supports the arch on the inner side of your foot. If the plantar fascia is strained, it gets weak and irritated due to inflammation. This is most likely to happen if: - Your feet roll inward too much when you walk - You have high arches or flat feet - You are overweight - You wear shoes that don't fit well or are worn out - You have tight calf muscles or a tight Achilles tendon - You walk, stand or run for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces Symptoms of plantar fasciitis: The condition starts gradually with mild pain at the heel bone, that often feels like a stone bruise. You

will feel pain in your heel, when you take your first few steps in the morning or sit for a long time. You may have less stiffness and pain after you take a few steps. But your foot may hurt more as the day goes on. It may hurt the most when you climb stairs or after you stand for a long time. If you don't treat plantar fasciitis, it may become a chronic condition. You may not be able to keep up your level of activity and you may also develop symptoms of the foot, knee, hip and back problems because of the way plantar fasciitis changes the way you walk. Conversely, it is also important to note that problems of the back, hip, knee and foot may also cause plantar fasciitis. How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed: You doctor, podiatrist or physical therapist will examine your feet and watch you as you stand and walk. A complete evaluation of your lower back and lower limbs is necessary. In most cases, problems in the back or knee may cause poor posturing of the foot resulting in plantar fasciitis. Cont’d on page 23

Health Science Post

India Post

February 19, 2010

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Obama invites Republicans to health care talks WASHINGTON: In the first major step to revive his health care agenda after his party's loss of its super-majority in the Senate, President Barack Obama has invited Republican and Democratic leaders to discuss possible compromises later this month. Obama's move came amid widespread complaints that efforts so far by him and his Democratic allies in Congress have been too partisan and secretive. The Feb. 25 meeting's prospects for success are far from clear. Republican leaders demanded that Democrats start from scratch, and White House aides said Obama had no plans to do so. ``If we are to reach a bipartisan consensus, the White House can start by shelving the current health spending bill,'' said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, a Republican from Kentucky. House Republican leader John Boehner of Ohio also threw some jabs while accepting Obama's invitation. He said he was glad the White House ``finally seems interested in a real, bipartisan conver-

sation,'' adding that Americans have rejected ``the job-killing, trillion-dollar government takeover of health care bills passed by the House and Senate.'' Obama made health care reform a centerpiece of his presidency, but so far has failed to get a new law enacted. The issue is of critical importance to the United

Republican leaders demanded that Democrats start from scratch, and White House aides said Obama had no plans to do so States, which is among the few industrialized nations that doesn't provide universal health care. The private system in the U.S. has left more than 40 million without health insurance coverage. Obama is reaching out again to Republicans, despite their unanimous opposition to previous Democratic proposals and the election of a new Republican senator who broke the Democrat's hold on

Battlement Mesa health studies moving ahead BATTLEMENT MESA, Colo.: Garfield County officials are moving ahead with plans for health studies in Battlement Mesa to evaluate the effects of oil and gas drilling on residents. County environmental health director Jim Rada said he has been talking with researchers, state agencies, industry representatives and others to launch the studies. Hundreds of residents in the community of about 5,000 had requested health studies amid proposals by Antero Resources to drill up to 200 wells near Parachute. Many in Battlement Mesa are retirees, who have said they are worried their health could be com-

promised if drilling occurs close to their homes. Industry representatives have said there is no research showing a direct correlation between oil and gas development and health problems on people living near the wells. Western Slope Colorado Oil and Gas Association director David Ludlam said the industry does not oppose the idea of the health studies. County commissioners recently agreed a health study was warranted and that it could be funded by the county, perhaps using the county's energy mitigation fund that comes from fees paid by energy companies. -AP

the Senate. Under Senate rules, contentious legislation often requires a three-fifths vote for passage, or 60 in the 100-member body. When Republican Scott Brown took over the seat of the late Massachusetts Sen. Edward Kennedy last week, he gave the minority Republicans 41 votes they can use to block Obama's agenda. Obama told CBS's Katie Couric that he and the leaders of both parties will ``go through systematically all the best ideas that are out there and move it forward.'' Asked if he was willing to start from square one, the president said he wants ``to look at the Republican ideas that are out there.'' He added: ``And I want to be very specific: 'How do you guys want to lower costs? How do you guys intend to reform the insurance markets so people with preexisting conditions, for example, can get health care?''' ``If we can go step by step through a series of these issues and arrive at some agreements,'' Obama said, ``then procedurally, there's no reason why we can't do

it a lot faster than the process took last year.'' Congress' Democratic and Republican leaders have differed sharply on most major questions in the long-running health care debate. Only one Republican

President Barack Obama

voted for the House health care bill approved in December, and no Republicans voted for a similar Senate version. White House officials said that Obama does not intend to restart the health care legislative process from scratch. Many liberal groups and lawmakers want congressional Democrats to use all the

parliamentary muscle they have to enact the measure that the Senate passed on Christmas Eve, employing rules that could bypass Republican filibusters to make changes demanded by House Democrats. The White House has not ruled out such a strategy. But Obama's recent talk of inviting Republican input and extending the debate for several weeks has caused uncertainty about his plans. A White House statement said Obama repeatedly has made it clear ``that he's adamant about passing comprehensive reform similar to the bills passed by the House and the Senate.'' ``He hopes to have Republican support in doing so, but he is going to move forward on health reform,'' the statement said. Polls show that many Americans feel Obama and his congressional allies have not sought enough Republican input, although Democrats say Republicans have shown virtually no interest in seeking a realistic agreement. -AP

New medical device energizes Gilbert teen's heart MESA, Ariz.: Miller Kaapke is a ``miracle child'' with congenital heart disease. He has defied doctors after he was pronounced dead, with no pulse for almost a half an hour. The Gilbert 13-year-old has undergone open-heart surgery and has a pacemaker and a defibrillator. He has had to relearn how to walk, talk and recognize his four siblings. In 2009, after a year of low energy, Miller needed more surgery to replace his pulmonary valve. He had to rest just to walk upstairs to his bedroom. Thanks to a new medical device approved by the Food and Drug Administration a week and a half ago, Miller is back to playing the drums in his Gilbert Junior High School band, and playing kickball and dodgeball with a chest protector. ``He's got the energy to be a kid again,'' said Miller's dad, Bob Kaapke, an entrepreneur. ``Now, he just flies up those stairs, and he's much happier.'' Miller is one of 150 patients throughout the country accepted into a research trial to receive a replacement heart valve implanted without surgery. In April 2009, Miller underwent the minimally invasive procedure to re-

ceive the Melody Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve at Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital of New York, on the campus of Columbia University. Twenty-four hours after the procedure, Miller left the hospital, walked around Times Square and went to see the Blue Man Group. It was a far cry from the weeklong hospital stay Miller endured after his open-heart surgery.

Miller is one of 150 patients throughout the country accepted into a research trial to receive a replacement heart valve ``There was no heart-lung machine, no invasive surgery, no long hospital stay,'' said Miller's mom, Tracy Kaapke, an administrative assistant at Montessori Education Centre in Mesa. Four days after the new procedure, Miller went ice skating for the first time. ``For now, with a cardiac son, this has been an amazing choice,'' Tracy said. The procedure and the device,

made by Medtronic, went ``remarkably well'' with Miller, said Dr. William Hellenbrand, who operated on Miller. ``We're going to follow him very carefully (for at least five years), along with all the other 150 patients,'' Hellenbrand said. ``The issue is how long will this valve last? We put an adult-size valve in him, and we are very hopeful this will last a long time.'' You'd never know Miller has been through so much, besides his scars and the bump in his chest from the defibrillators, which he calls his ``man boob.'' Dr. Mary Jo Kutler, Miller's pediatrician, discovered Miller's heart problem when he was 4 weeks old. Miller was diagnosed with aortic subvalve stenosis, an ailment that can kill undiagnosed teens when they are playing sports. Miller's condition was controlled by medication, but he needed open-heart surgery when he was 18 months old to remove a muscle flap that caused his heart to work overtime. Then, when Miller was 8 years old, he complained of tightness in his chest while playing sports. Doctors discovered a bad aortic valve and Miller underwent another surgery. -AP

February 19, 2010

Health Science Post

India Post

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Keeping your child's teeth healthy India Post News Service

SACRAMENTO: According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, nearly 50 percent of children have tooth decay before age 5. Because young children's teeth are very important for eating and speaking clearly, helping a child maintain a proper dental health care routine is key to his or her overall development. In a press release, First 5 California says it encourages parents and caregivers to begin taking care of children's teeth and gums early on with the following helpful tips. • Gently wipe your baby's gums with a clean, wet cloth after each feeding. • As soon as your child's first tooth comes in, begin brushing every day. • Brush your toddler's teeth for him or her until he or she is 6 years old. • Visit the dentist when the child's first tooth comes in, and every year after that for a check-up. • Look for toothbrushes with soft

bristles that are gentle on gums. To make brushing more fun, use a brightly colored toothbrush. Ask your child to roar like a tiger to help open his or her mouth wide! • Ask a dentist or doctor if it's okay to use a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste once a child is 2 or 3 years old. Supervise and teach your child to spit out toothpaste and rinse after brushing. • Floss teeth as soon as they grow and begin to touch each other - usually when a child is about 4 years old. • Monitor what your child eats, as it can affect his or her dental health. Avoid candy and sugary drinks like soda that can cause cavities. • Prevent tooth decay by not letting your child suck on a bottle or sippy cup filled with milk or juice for a long time. If he or she needs a bottle at bedtime, fill it with water. By practicing good dental habits early in a child's life and visiting the dentist regularly, parents can help keep children's teeth healthy and their smiles sparkling!

Painful inflammation of the plantar fascia Cont’d from page 21

heels on the ground as long as possible. It is therefore necessary that you men- Your heel cords and foot arches will stretch tion to your doctor, if you have a history of as the heels come up in the stretch. Hold for 10 seconds, relax and straighten up. Repeat backache, hip/ knee/ ankle joint problems. 20 times on each sore leg. Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis: Prognosis: A large proportion of people a) Rest and NSAID's: Rest is the first treatment for plantar fasciitis. Try to keep with plantar fasciitis improve significantly afyour weight off of your foot until the inter two months of initial treatment. You may flammation goes away. Applying ice to the be advised to use shoes with shock-absorbsore area for 20 minutes, three to four ing soles or fitted with a standard orthotic device like a rubber heel pad, times a day to relieve your by your orthotist. Your foot symptoms. Often a doctor may also be taped in a speOften a doctor will prewill prescribe non cific position by your physiscribe non steroidal anti-incal therapist. flammatory medications steroidal antiIf your plantar fasciitis such as Ibuprofen. inflammatory continues after a few months b) Exercises: A program of medications such of conservative treatment, home exercises to stretch your doctor may inject your your Achilles tendon, calf as Ibuprofen heel with steroidal anti-inflammuscle and the plantar fasmatory medications (corticosteroids). If you cia are the mainstay of treating the condition and lessening the chance of recurrence. still have symptoms after taking steroidal inIn one exercise, you lean forward against jections, you may need to wear a walking cast a wall with one knee straight and heel on for two to three weeks or a positional splint the ground. Your other knee is bent. Your that re-positions your foot when you sleep. heel cord and foot arch stretch as you lean. In a few cases, you might have to undergo Hold for 10 seconds, relax and straighten surgery to release the tight plantar fascia in your foot, to bring relief from symptoms. up. Repeat 20 times for each sore heel. Diana Pinto is a Registered Physical In the second exercise, you lean forward onto a counter top, spreading our feet apart Therapist practicing in New York. She with one foot in the front of the other. Bend has experience working in a wide variety your knees and squat down, keeping your of orthopedic cases.

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 19, 2010

idya Balan is fascinated with the poetic wooing style of old-timer Naseeruddin Shah rather than wickedly funny guy Arshad Warsi in Vishal Bhardwaj protege Abhishek Chaubey's directorial debut 'Ishqiya'. Talking about the difference in the approach of her lovers in the movie, Vidya informs, "Arshad's character is a typical guy for whom love is the way to get sex and Naseer saab's character is more old school." She continues, "Krishna is not apologetic about her needs. She gets attracted to Arshad's character and there is a certain culmination to it. With Naseer saab she enjoys that attention. He woos her in a classical way." No wonder Vidya falls for Naseeruddin Shah when he woos her with 'Dil toh bachcha hai ji'. Ask her how she would like to be wooed in real life she admits, "Fortunately or unfortunately I love the Naseer saab kind of romance, someone who woos with beautiful words and poetry. It's old school filmy style. I don't mind when a man opens a door for me or pulls out the chair for me. That chivalry is there in his character though in a different way because it's a rural setting."

n the sets of Vipul Shah's time-travel caper 'Action Replay' Akshay Kumar retro-wig which he wears for his 1970s look is his most prized possession. Apparently the wig designed by one of Hollywood's biggest makeup artistes Paul Pattison (who has done films like 'Braveheart' and 'Mission Impossible 2') made Akshay paranoid. He was petrified of losing it. Says Vipul, "Since we haven't copied our 1970s look from Hindi films Akshay and Aishwarya sat down to look at real-life footage from the decade to get the look right. They specially looked at television footage of live cricket matches in the 1970s. Akshay was busy peering at the pavilion of spectators, what they wore, how they spoke moved their body language. That's how he conceived his character in the 70s. That's where Paul Pattison's wig came in." There are 400 other wigs all done under Pattison's supervision for junior artistes posing as people in the 1970s. Says Vipul, "We were very particular about the 1970s look recreated at the Nitin Chandrakant Desai's studio in Karjat. We needed the cars from the 70s which we had to get from all over India from private owners at a very heavy price. The BEST buses in the 1970s were very different from their counterparts today. Getting authentic BEST buses from the 70s was the hardest part of the whole era- recreation. Getting Akshay and Aishwarya to go retro was the easiest thing. They had a ball getting into their wigs clothes and body language."

Bollywood

February 19, 2010

India Post

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hink about comedy flicks and the first name that comes to your mind is Ajay Devgn. The talented actor who started his career with the super hit 'Phool Aur Kaante' was best known for his action movies for a long time. But, action is certainly not what he seems to be doing these days. The two-time National Award winner has now become the King of comedy, with his recent hat trick of 'Golmaal', 'Golmaal Returns' and 'All The Best'. The smashing success of these movies has resulted in the actor being flooded with offers of comic roles. What's more! The actor's forthcoming release 'Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge?' co starring Paresh Rawal and Konkona Sen Sharma is also a laugh riot. The film, produced by Amita Pathak and Warner Bros (India), will make it to theatres across the world on March 5. The promos of the family entertainer have already got the audiences eager to watch the film. Ashwni Dhir, the director of Atithi....says, "Ajay is a first-rate actor. You can give him just about anything to do; whether it is action, comedy or drama. He is a natural in front of the camera." Ajay says, "Atithi ... is from the school of filmmaking that made a huge impact through the '70s and '80s. Yet the film has a contemporary look. Believe me, every time I say I will run away from comedy, comedy chooses me. After Atithi... I'll plunge headlong into 'Golmaal-3'. Sometimes, I think actors don't choose a role, a role chooses them. When you deliberately resist something, it has a way of following you."

aif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor are hopping mad. The two, who have always been open about their relationship, can't understand why there would ever be a need for them to hide their nikaah not only from the public but also from their families. This is not the first time that the media has got them married, but what irked Bebo more was that there were reports that the two had a formal engagement in the presence of a maulvi on February 6 at the Chote Nawab's house in Bandra. Saif is said to have gifted her the 7-series model of a new car. An angry Bebo shot back, "Enough is enough, please leave us alone. These rumors are rubbish and we don't have any plans of getting married till the next five years." We promise this rumor will crop up again in five weeks time, and one more round of rejoinders will follow. It's a cat and mouse game with the media, and these two lovebirds are forced to play.

Valentine girl

reida Pinto, the girl who made every Indian proud courtesy her million-dollar performance in the Oscar winning film Slumdog Millionaire, is Valentine's Brand Ambassador on the cover of the latest edition of Elle. Full marks to the photographer for capturing this beauty like never before! In this issue, Freida talks everything from dime to a dozen, which includes brands, films, her life etc. Talking about brands, this gorgeous lady says, "Chanel has always been an effortless brand- their simple, clean cuts will have you look super fashionable. Karl (Lagerfeld) has been great. If I ever need something, he will make it happen." And about her personal life she opines in her own words that, "I realized that I'd gone straight from the craziness of Slumdog into my films, so, this is my time to relax."

sha Deol, who is coming out of hibernation with her mother Hema Malini's next flick Tell Me Oh Khuda, says she has been involved in the project from the onset. Good for her. It's time Esha took such an initiative. After all, she can't waste her youth and her wow figure hiding behind flimsy excuses like 'I am waiting for the right script.' Esha informs, "After a long time, I'm enjoying each day of my shoot. This is one film I am not acting in. I am just being myself. It's today's story. So I have the liberty to be myself." Esha also gives credit to the first time director Mayur Puri who she has known since Dhoom days. "With Mayur it's very easy. We know each other so well and are on the same page creatively," she says. Actually, what the junta wants to know is, if Esha will wear itsy-bitsy clothes like the ones she wore in Dhoom. Those costumes created quite a furor.

Esha is back

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February 19, 2010

Shreyas Talpade and Gulshan Grover India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: New Jersey businessman Bipin Patel's first movie venture 'The Hangman' was premiered in Mumbai recently. The three main actors of the film, Om Puri, Shreyas Talpade and Gulshan Grover attended the event, along with the entire cast and crew. The lead actor for film Om Puri and his wife Nandita Puri told reporters on the occasion that anyone who saw (Aamir Khan's) 'Tare Zameen Par' should also go see The Hangman. Also in attendance were Tom Alter (with his daughter), Smita Jayakar and her husband, and the music bandVedic Chants. It was a night full of celebration as not only the cast and crew came together to kick off The Hangman's release, but because it was also Talpade's birthday. A textile engineer by qualification, Bipin Patel is the President and CEO of Speedy Mart Food Stores (a NJbased chain of convenience stores and gas stations in the tri-state area).

Om Puri, Gulshan Grover and Shreyas Talpade

Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 28

India Post News Service

MUMBAI: Reliance Big Pictures and Rakesh Roshan's eagerly awaited romantic film Kites will release worldwide in Hindi and English versions on May 21 in over 60 countries. The trailer of the Hindi version will play on 1700 screens worldwide to coincide with Valentine's Day. The trailer of Kites' English version is being released on 1000

Kites to release on May 21 screens. The English version of Kites is presented and reworked by the well known Hollywood director Brett Ratner (Rush Hour Series, X-Men: The Last Stand). Commenting on this, Sanjeev Lamba, CEO, Reliance Big Pictures said, "We have always believed that Indian films and talent can enjoy the same success and recognition internationally as in India. We are extremely de-

lighted to be associated with Rakesh Roshan, Hrithik Roshan and Anurag Basu, some of the best talent in the Indian film industry. Kites is a first-of-its-kind Indian film and it has already generated huge interest. We are proud to present the first look to a worldwide audience." Kites is a compelling romantic saga that goes beyond barriers, boundaries and cultures. It is a story of passion that defies every rule, of a relationship that takes two lovers on a thrilling journey filled with precious moments - and unexpected betrayal. Shot in Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Santa Fe, Kites is one of the biggest films ever produced in India. Produced by Rakesh Roshan and to be released worldwide by Reliance BIG Pictures, Kites is directed by Anurag Basu starring Hrithik Roshan and Mexican star Barbara Mori. It also stars Kangana Ranaut, Kabir Bedi and Nick Brown. Kites has music by Rajesh Roshan, cinematography by Ayananka Bose and stunt coordination by Hollywood's Spiro Razatos. The English version is re-edited by Mark Helfrich (Rush Hour Series, X-Men: The Last Stand) with additional background score by Graeme Revell (Sin City, Grindhouse, Pineapple Express).

February 19, 2010

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February 19, 2010

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Rafi, Madhubala tombs demolished MUMBAI: The remains of Hindi cinema's finest stalwarts including Madhubala, Mohammed Rafi, Naushad and Sahir Ludhianvi have been disposed of and their tombs demolished to make space for new bodies. Authorities manning the Juhu Muslim cemetery where they are interred say they were forced to take this step, and that it is in consonance with Islamic law. The Muslim burial ground located opposite Juhu Garden was a paradise of sorts, given that luminous artistes like Rafi, Madhubala, Naseem Bano, Ludhianvi, Naushad, Ali Sardar Jafri, Khwaja Ahmed Abbas, Jan Nisar Akhtar, Talat Mahmood and Parveen Babi were interred there. In a process that began five

leveled by filling in truckloads of soil three-feet high to create another layer of graves. The latest celebrity to be buried in Juhu cemetery was Aamir Khan's

Mohammed Rafi

years ago, the trust that manages the site began to dismantle the 21 tombstones on site and disposed of the bones and skulls without informing their families or seeking their consent. The ground was

There is an acute shortage of space since the Muslim population in the area is expanding and everyone wants to be buried in our graveyard father Tahir Hussain on February 3. Laden with flowers, this fresh grave forms the second tier. "Islamic law or Sharia does not permit the construction of memo-

UK disputes Shah Rukh's claim on body scanners LONDON: Britain's airport officials have disputed the claim by Indian actor Shah Rukh Khan on a popular television show last week that his naked image taken from body scanners at the Heathrow airport were printed and circulated by staff. Khan claimed on the BBC prime time Friday Night with Jonathan Ross show that female security staff at the airport had printed his naked image from the newly-installed body scanner and that he had autographed them. However, the British Airports Authority (BAA) said the claim was 'completely factually incorrect' because the body-scanning equipment had no capability to print images. Also, the images captured by the equipment could not be stored

Shah Rukh Khan

or distributed in any form, a BAA spokeswoman said. Speaking on the widely-watched show, Khan said, "I'm always stopped by the security, because of the name. And I think its okay: the

western world is a little bit worried, paranoid and touchy, I guess, and freely when they're frisking you". Khan, who was on a visit to promote his new film, My Name Is Khan, added, "I was in London recently going through the airport and these new machines have come up, the body scans. You've got to see them. It makes you embarrassed if you're not well endowed". "You walk into the machine and everything, the whole outline of your body comes out. I was a little scared. Something happens [inside the scans], and I came out. Then I saw these girls they had these printouts. I looked at them. I thought they were some forms you had to fill. I said 'give them to me' and you could see everything inside. So I autographed them for them". -PTI

Madhubala

rials to the dead,'' says Asgar Ali, president of the Muslim Majlis, which manages the burial ground. "Moreover, there is an acute shortage of space since the Muslim population in the area is expanding and everyone wants to be buried in our graveyard given how clean and high-profile it is. Poet Ali Sardar Jafri lived near Malabar Hill but was brought here.'' The families of these artistes are outraged that the trustees did not consult them before doing so. Madhubala's sister Madhur Bhushan says the actor's memorial was beautifully carved in pure marble and bore 'aayats' from the Koran as well as verses dedicated to her memory. "My father spent weeks and months at the graveyard getting artisans to craft it well,'' she says. "Why did they allow us to construct it then?'' "We grant NOCs (no-objection certificates), we don't take them. Once a corpse enters these gates it becomes our property,'' retorts

Asgar Ali. Trust secretary Qayyum Khan adds, " Every Muslim is equal before God; no concessions can be made for artistes and celebrities. We are forced to turn over the graves each year due to shortage of space.'' Interestingly, actors Dilip Kumar and Saira Banu have requested the civic authorities to give the trust another plot in Juhu Koliwada to accommodate new graves. "My mother, yesteryear star Naseem Bano, my grandmother and several relatives are interred in Juhu cemetery,'' says Saira Banu. "I understand the predicament of the masjid's trustees. It is imperative that the authorities devote time and attention to the problem and allot land nearby.'' Fans of Mohammed Rafi who unfailingly arrive twice a year-on December 24 and July 31-to mark his birth and death anniversary now have no marker to go by. "A few years ago, the granite plaque was removed, so now we identify the coconut tree nearest to his grave and pray there,'' says Binu Nair who runs a Rafi fan club in Mumbai. Maulana Mahmood Daryabadi, secretary general of the All-India Ulema Council, says that Islam recommends that the grave be as simple as possible. "Of course, tombs are erected for men of God and for people whom the masses venerate. Old graves are usually turned over each year in Mumbai, but this must be done respectfully and old bones and skulls must be interred in the new grave.'' (Courtesy Times of India)

Hangman in Mumbai

Aamir spends time with mom MUMBAI: It's a trying phase for Aamir Khan. After the sudden demise of his father Tahir Hussain, now he is getting concerned for his mother, Zeenat, who is still coming to terms with the loss. With a constant stream of well wishers, friends and relatives at her home in Pune, Zeenat was probably not getting any respite. Aamir has now taken his mother to his home in Panchgani to give her some time alone. In fact, Aamir has also decided to be at her side so that she is properly looked after. A source said, "Aamir is extremely concerned about his mother and didn't want to leave her alone. His mother stays in Pune

Aamir Khan

and Aamir decided that he should temporarily shift to Panchgani with her since there were numerous

visitors coming home and giving her no time to recover. Even his sister Farhat is down here from the US and his other sister Nusrat is also staying with them. Aamir's brother Faisal who, has reconciled with him, is also in Panchgani along with the rest of the family." A close friend of the actor confirmed, "Aamir has just left Mumbai and plans to stay in Panchgani till the end of the month. He wants to spend as much time with his mother as he can. Even his wife Kiran is there with them. He has called off all his professional engagements and will just be concentrating on his family for some time."

Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 26

He is also the Chairman of Indus American Bank and has established his own production company called Akshar Media. "The Hangman" is Akshar Media's first feature film. The Hangman is a story about crime and punishment, as the executioner (played by Om Puri) battles the social stigma which surrounds his unique profession. The film is set in the 1970s and

deals with the emotional impact of the hangman's profession on his wife and his son (played by Talpade). Patel is extremely proud of his first venture in cinema. He says, "I feel the story of The Hangman is rich and bold with Indian culture and at the same time maintains a worldwide appeal. I want to produce movies which are different and The Hangman is a unique tale with an extremely talented cast."

anchipuram is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in India and the seat of the Shankaracharya. The temple city is situated around 70 km from Chennai in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Kanchipuram or the Golden City of Temples is one of the most important centers of Hindu religion and also one of the most picturesque. The place is one of India's seven sacred cities and the second holiest after Varanasi. The city was once the capital of the Pallavas, Cholas, and the Vijayanagar rulers. It was under the Pallavas from 6th to 8th century AD but, during that period, was also briefly occupied by the Chalukyas, and the Rashtrakutas. Many of the temples situated

29 India Post

Kanchipuram is one of the most sacred Hindu pilgrimage sites in India and the seat of the Shankaracharya. The temple city is situated around 70 km from Chennai in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu here are the work of the Pallavas and later Cholas. The remains of a few Buddhist stupas are indication that Buddhism also prevailed here for a little while. One of the four seats of Sri Adi Shankaracharya (a great Hindu sage); the Kanchi Kamakotti Peetham is situated here. It has been a center for Tamil learning and culture for centuries and presents the glorious Dravidian heritage of the Vaishnavites (worshippers of Vishnu) and Shaivites (worshippers of Shiva). Tourist attractions: The Ekambaranathar Temple in the city was built by the Pallavas and was later reconstructed by the Chola and Vijayanagar kings. Shiva is worshiped here as Prithvi (earth), one of the five basic elements of the physical world. The dimensions of the temple are reflected in its 20-acre spread and its tall south Gopuram, which soars to a height of 58.5 m. The temple has 11 stories and one of the tallest temple towers in South India. The structure is decorated with beautiful sculptures. The Vaikunta Perumal Temple dates back to the 8th century and was built by Nandivarma Pallava. Battle scenes depicting Pallava valor are carved on the panels surrounding the main parikrama of this Vaishnavite temple. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 32

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February 19, 2010

Travel & Hospitality Post

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February 19, 2010

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Hong Kong eyes growth from India NEW DELHI: The Hong Kong Tourism Board has said it is eyeing double-digit growth in the number of Indian tourist arrivals to the city on the back of its new campaign and initiatives to be launched in April this year. "Despite the slowdown, the number of Indian outbound tourists is growing at the rate of 10 per cent and can touch 12 million in 2010. So this year, we are optimis-

tic that we will achieve a double digit growth," Hong Kong Tourism Board Executive Director Anthony Lau told reporters here. The tourism promotional group of Hong Kong said last year Indian tourist arrivals were hit by the outbreak of the H1N1 coupled with the global economic meltdown, registering a mere growth of

five per cent compared to around 10 per cent previous year. "We had around 3.6 lakh Indians, a growth of 4.6 per cent last year. In the middle of the year, when H1N1 broke out, it was badly hit and saw a double-digit decline from previous year," he said. However, in last three months, there has been growth and has we have man-

aged to pull out from the double digit decline, he added. The tourism group has lined up a new marketing campaign, which will be formally launched in April this year and is currently working with various travel partners for packages for Indian customers, with special focus on Delhi and Mumbai. -PTI

Dubai registers decline in tourist numbers

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DUBAI: The number of tourists to Dubai fell in the first nine months of last year as the global economic slowdown resulted in fewer travelers from Europe, the tourism department of the emirate said. Visitor numbers fell 5.7 per cent in the third quarter compared with the same period in 2008, figures from the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), published by the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) said. Tourism is an important part of Dubai's economy, directly contributing 19 per cent to its GDP in 2008. The emirate, which attracted 7.5 million hotel guests in that year, was aiming to double the number by 2015. However, despite the significant falls in performance, Dubai continues to achieve some of the highest average room rates and REVPAR [revenue per available room] in the region even as new supply continues to flood the market. The data showed a 1.3 per cent fall in international hotel guests in the emirate for the first three quarters of last year compared with the same period in 2008, boosted by 3 percent growth in international guests in the first quarter. -PTI

Orissa may organize Buddhist Conclave BHUBANESWAR: Known for its Buddhist relic sites, Orissa has offered to organize the third international Buddhist Conclave in the state. "I have urged at the recent Nalanda Conclave in Bihar to select Orissa as the venue of the next International Buddhist conclave," Tourism Minister Debi Prasad Mishra told reporters here. Stating that as many as 128 Buddhist sites had been identified as potential tourist spots in the state, Mishra said tours to Buddhist places in India were incomplete without viewing Lalitgiri, Ratnagiri, Dhauli and other places. While the first meet took place in New Delhi, the second one was held in Bihar. -PTI

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February 19, 2010

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India, Turkey seek more travel opportunities India Post News Service

NEW DELHI: On the occasion of the visit of Turkish President Abdullah Gul to India, CII organized a roundtable on "Opportunities for Collaboration in Tourism Sector" in New Delhi. Arjun Sharma, Executive Member, CII National Committee on Tourism mentioned that India has 5 million inbound tourists and over 9 million outbound tourists every year and Turkey could be a very attractive destination for MICE Tourism. On the opportunities for collaboration in the Tourism Sector between the two nations, he said one needs to look at the - flights between India-Turkey, - Tourism Investments in India & Turkey (credit opportunities), measures to increase the number of tourists, trade related to tourism & issues related to visa procedures. If visa on arrival is granted for Indian tourists, particularly to those holding schengen visa, then there could be a boom in the traffic inflow from India. Mete Akadere, General Manager, India, Turkish Airlines made a presentation highlighting the strengths of the Turkish Airlines and pointed out that over the years a conscious effort had been made to increase the flight service between the two nations with better facility.

Ms Oya Narin, Vice Chairman of the Turkish Tourism Investors Association spoke on the initiatives taken by the Turkish Government in promoting tourism in the country and said that Turkey received over 27 million tourists and this growth has been feasible due to the concerted effort of Gov-

Indian tourists were number one shoppers in many a country including Singapore & Dubai and if the Turkish Government eased the visa Policy, the country would really gain from this ernment, tour operators and airlines. She invited investments from India in the Tourism City and said that this would be a great opportunity for collaboration. Erdal Alkis, Vice Chairman, of DEIK & Member of Turkish India Business Council said that the

Government had taken many favorable steps to make the country investor friendly and urged the business community to come and invest in Turkey. Subhash Goyal, Chairman Stic Travels Pvt Ltd. said that Turkey should also consider following the Open Sky Policy for international airlines, just India does. He added that Indian tourists were number one shoppers in many a country including Singapore & Dubai and if the Turkish Government eased the visa Policy, the country would really gain from this. He also solicited investment from the representatives of the business delegation from Turkey by saying that the India is a safe destination for investment as there is security of investment, return on investment & appreciation on investment. Emin Cakmak, Chairman of the Turkish Indian Tourism Council mentioned that Turkey is one of the top 10 tourism destinations in the world. More than 10,000 visas were issued for travelers between Turkey to India last year and over 25,000 visas were granted from India to Turkey. The Roundtable was attended by a large gathering of representatives from across the travel industry and over 25 delegates from Turkey. The participants raised queries relating to visa issues which were answered by representatives of the Turkish delegation.

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Kanchipuram: City of a thousand temples Cont’d from page 29

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dess Parvati in her incarnation as Kamakshi, the goddess of Love. The Varadaraja Temple is dedicated to Places around Kanchipuram: Tiruttani Lord Vishnu who is worshipped as near Kanchipuram is one of the six abodes Devarajaswamy here. This temple, which of Lord Subramanya. Situated on a hilltop, has a 100-pillared hall, was built by the the temple is accessible by road as well as Vijayanagar kings and displays the mastery by train. 365 steps, which represent the days of their artists. Among the best pieces are of the year, lead to the hill. Tiruttani is said the severed halves of a large chain carved to be the place where the Lord married Valli, out of a single stone, and the figures of the one of his two consorts. The Karthigai festival, which falls in December, is also celebrated with great pomp here. Sriperumbudur is 29 km from Chennai on the way to Kanchipuram. It is the birthplace of Saint Ramanujar, the father of the Vishishtadvaita philosophy of Vaishnavism and hence an important pilgrim center for the Vaishnavites. This is also the place where Rajiv Gandhi, former Prime Minister of India, was killed in a bomb blast during a public meeting in 1991. Naga-worship next to the Sri Vaigunda Perumal Vedanthangal Bird Temple in Kanchipuram Sanctuary (60 km from Kanchi) has come up God of Love and his consort astride a swan around a village tank, which is surrounded and a parrot respectively. by a grove of trees. Migratory birds like the The Kailasanathar Temple was con- sandpiper, white ibis, spoonbill, swan and structed by the Pallava kings in the 8th cen- gray wagtail etc. can be spotted here. There tury AD and has an attractive panel depict- is also a sizeable population of resident ing Shiva and Parvati in the midst of one of breeding water birds. The period between their innumerable dance competitions. The October-February is the best time to visit architecture of this temple resembles the Vedanthangal. Shore Temple at Mahabalipuram. The Elagiri Hill is an isolated, attracThe Kamakshi Amman Temple has an tive picnic spot in the Eastern Ghats at an imposing structure and is dedicated to god- elevation of about 1000 m. The salubrious

climate, scenic surroundings and a quaint Murugan temple add to the beauty of the place. Fairs & festivals: There are fairs and festivals all round the year at Kanchipuram. Some important festivals include the Brahmothsavam, Garudothsavam, and Car (rath) festivals, which are held in the months of January, April, and May respectively. Best time to visit: The climate of Kanchipuram is tropical with an almost uni-

The Kailasanathar Temple was constructed by the Pallava kings in the 8th century AD and has an attractive panel depicting Shiva and Parvati in the midst of one of their innumerable dance competitions form temperature throughout the year. During summers, the temperature ranges between 36.6°C and 21.1°C. Winter months are slightly colder and the temperatures remain between 28.7°C and 19.8°C. The average annual rainfall in the city is 87 cm. Where to stay: It is difficult to find quality accommodation in Kanchipuram. Most

Kamakshi Amman temple

of the lodges are situated near the city bus stand. Some guesthouses also provide basic facilities, and a serene environment to the travelers. How to reach Air - Chennai is the nearest airport to Kanchipuram. One can take flights for most of the important Indian cities and important cities abroad from Chennai. Rail - Trains for Kanchipuram are available from Chennai, Chengalpattu, Tirupati, and Bangalore. Road - Kanchipuram is 75 km away from Chennai and is well connected by a network of roads.

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Realty Tidbits

Gujarat emerging as more preferable destination

Real Estate

ardik Shah, who deals in real estate in Vapi town of south Gujarat, is a busy man these days. Vapi has been a favorite location for industrialists from Mumbai who want to set up plants in Gujarat because they find the state more investor friendly. He was with a client near Sanjan trying to identify land for a medium-sized petrochemical unit. "Of late, inquiries from Mumbai have increased substantially for suitable land near Maharashtra's border with Gujarat. These people are upset with parochialism in and around Mumbai," says Shah. Obviously, Amitabh Bachchan is not the only Mumbaikar who is rooting for Gujarat.

Home buyers preferring Tier I cities

rospective home buyers need to look at certain drivers of accessibility, infrastructure and location viability in a city to earn a profitable return on investment. After the global economic downturn, buyers are now being more cautious about their real estate investment decisions. Locations which show affordability and future capital appreciation potential are preferred. According to a Jones Lang LaSalle Meghraj (JLLM) survey, the most viable cities in terms of residential investment potential currently are Gurgaon and Noida in Delhi NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai and Hyderabad.

Mumbai tops in price escalation

roperty-seekers might think Delhi-NCR has the maximum appreciation potential within a year's time. However, according to the latest property index released by real estate portal Makaan.com, it's the Mumbai real estate market which beat all Indian cities in terms of price escalation over a period of 12 months. Mumbai has bucked the economic slowdown by witnessing a whopping 24.7 per cent jump in prices between January and December 2009. During the same period, realty rates in DelhiNCR rose by 8.8 per cent. But other emerging residential destinations such as Hyderabad and Bangalore have witnessed a fall of 7.7 and 2.2 per cent, respectively, the index added. However, Pune market gained significantly by 9.9 per cent.

35 India Post

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Real estate revival can boost industries

hen major sectors in the economy do well, it au gurs well for several ancillary industries that depend on them. A case in point is the Rs 5,500-crore Indian glass industry, which has shown good growth in the past few quarters driven by an uptick in demand from user-industries such as infrastructure, construction, automobiles, food processing, beverages, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, among others.

February 19, 2010

Great time to invest in rental property TAMARA E. HOLMES

f you're thinking about investing in a rental property, experts say low home prices combined with low interest rates make this the best time in years to become a real estate investor. What's more, the real estate market is starting to recover: U.S. houses lost $489 billion in value during the first 11 months of 2009, but that was significantly lower than the $3.6 trillion lost during 2008, according to real estate Web site Zillow.com, "We haven't seen home prices this low in so many years -coupled with the rates being so low," says Jill Sjolin, an agent with Windermere Real Estate in Woodinville, Wash., who specializes in investment properties. "When the money is cheap to borrow and the houses are cheap to buy, it's absolutely the best time to invest." While the timing may be right, these five tips can help first-time

investors take advantage of what might be the opportunity of a lifetime. Know your options. Since all investment properties are not the same, it's important to determine what type of property fits your strategy, says Harrison Merrill, chief executive officer of Merrill

tors may want to start with residential housing, since commercial real estate and land development still face challenging market conditions, Merrill says. Partner with experience. Firsttime investors should find a Realtor experienced with investment property deals that can help you

‘Go down to the general district court in your area and listen to some landlord/tenant cases so you can get a sense of what kind of challenges landlords face," says Jeffrey Taylor, author of "The Landlord's Kit’ Trust Group, a real estate investment company based in Atlanta. Do you want to become a landlord or would you rather restore and resell properties? Are you interested in apartment buildings and other commercial real estate or buying land that can be developed? First-time real estate inves-

locate promising properties. "Look for relational brokers who expect to do business with you again and therefore are going to be much more careful with what they recommend," says Merrill. A second option is to collaborate with a more experienced real estate investor and close a deal to-

gether. In this economy, an experienced real estate investor may be willing to work with you in exchange for the capital you can provide, giving you the opportunity to glean investment knowledge and experience firsthand, Merrill says. Even if you don't collaborate with other real estate investors, talk to them about pitfalls they've experienced. "Go down to the general district court in your area and listen to some landlord/tenant cases so you can get a sense of what kind of challenges landlords face," says Jeffrey Taylor, author of "The Landlord's Kit." Look for the right location. If you buy a property with hopes of renting it out, location is key. Homes in high-rent or highly populated areas are ideal; stay away from rural areas where there are fewer people and a small pool of potential renters, suggests Sjolin.

Property prices in Dubai dropping drastically

roperty prices in Dubai are dropping drastically. They may further decline by about 30%, says an expert. Real-estate investors will have to wait for 7-10 years to receive good returns. "There is an expectation of further reduction is property prices by 30% in Dubai. Prices are already one-third of

surrounding the Khalifa Tower reached $20,505 per square meter in 2008, while the current price has dropped by nearly 70%. Dubai's relentless pursuit of growth received an unprecedented jolt in November, when its heavily indebted flagship holding company, Dubai World, announced plans to

‘A villa on Palm Island which was selling for 12 million dirhams about two years back is now available for 4 million dirhams and we expect it to go down to 3 million dirhams’ their original levels," said Pranay Vakil, chairman, Knight Frank India Pvt Ltd. He said, "A villa on Palm Island which was selling for 12 million dirhams about two years back is now available for 4 million dirhams and we expect it to go down to 3 million dirhams." The peak price for the blocks

restructure loans worth $60 billion. Dubai World's real-estate arm Nakheel was in the doldrums, after a 50% drop in real-estate prices forced it to ask for a trading suspension of its Islamic bonds. Dubai World has sought a moratorium on its debt obligations for a period of six months.

The central bank of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had stated that it is setting up a facility to provide banks with extra liquidity, as it seeks to battle perceptions that Dubai cannot support its own companies. According to media reports, the key factor behind the crisis was the policy of the UAE central bank. After closing at 4% in October 2006,

the yearly rate of growth of the central bank's balance sheet (the pace of monetary pumping) climbed to 177% by December 2007. In response to this pumping, the yearly rate of growth of UAE's monetary measure AMS jumped from 6% in October 2006 to 62% by April 2008. This massive monetary inflow supported various projects.

In Brief Immigrant raids hit Texas bus companies HOUSTON: Federal agents have raided more than a dozen bus companies in Houston they say dispersed illegal immigrants across the US in wide-reaching smuggling networks. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials say 14 businesses were targeted this week, including one that used armed guards and pit bulls to hold immigrants in a stash house. ICE Assistant Secretary John Morton says 22 people were charged with conspiracy to transport illegal immigrants, which carries a maximum 10year prison sentence and $250,000 in fines. ICE agents also detained 81 suspected illegal immigrants. -AP

Judge mulls sanctions against Ariz. sheriff office PHOENIX: A Phoenix judge is considering whether to impose sanctions against the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office for its acknowledged destruction of some police records in a lawsuit. The lawsuit alleges deputies racially profiled countless Hispanics in its immigration sweeps. US District Judge Murray Snow heard arguments over whether the agency should be punished for shredding officers' records of traffic stops. He also heard arguments for sanctions against the agency for not handing over all its e-mails about the sweeps. -AP

DPS on pursuit in fake hostage situation PHOENIX: Department of Public Safety officers spent one afternoon chasing a rental truck down Interstate 10 after a caller claimed the truck had 70 illegal immigrant hostages and three heavily armed men aboard. The whole thing was a hoax according to state police. DPS said the driver, 40-year-old Michael John Cook of Mesa, claimed his family was being held hostage at another location by human smugglers and if he didn't get his human cargo to Mexico, his family would be killed. DPS and Gila River police finally got the driver to pull over near Casa Grande after officers rammed the vehicle and used spike strips. -AP

Immigration 36

India Post

February 19, 2010

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Ga. debates incentives for federal crackdown ATLANTA: A Cobb County lawmaker is proposing legislation that would provide financial incentives to encourage local law enforcement to use a federal program aimed at identifying illegal immigrants arrested in Georgia. Details on page 38

Cuban musicians trickle into US under Obama MIAMI: One by one, musicians from the renowned Cuban salsa band Los Van Van made their way past immigration officials at Miami International Airport and into the bright lights and cameras of the Spanish-language media. A reporter offered them Cuban pastries. Another asked what it meant to play in Miami. Maintenance workers took pictures with their cell phones. One said she had grown up dancing to Los Van Van. Another denounced them as tools of the island's communist government. When they last played Miami 10 years ago, a mini-riot broke out between fans and protesters. ``I didn't come to do anything political,'' bassist Juan Formell said. ``We came to play music.'' Los Van Van are the latest in a string of Cuban bands to visit the United States during the Obama administration, and the most contentious. Many characterize the group as having a cozy relationship with Cuba's communist gov-

ernment, which makes them to conservative exiles an emblem of a five-decade-long dictatorship. Aside from Los Van Van, La Charanga Habanera and Buena Fe, a pop duo, each made recent appearances to sold-out crowds in Miami. The Septeto Nacional visited in November. Folk singer Carlos Varela met with politicians

were granted; four years later, that number had dropped to 16. Last year, artist and athlete visas rose from 41 to 57. ``I think under Obama, we've seen that reversed a little bit,'' said Sujatha Fernandes, an assistant sociology professor at Queens College in New York City and author of ``Cuba Represent! Cuban

Los Van Van are the latest in a string of Cuban bands to visit the United States during the Obama administration, and the most contentious and sang in Washington. Legendary singer Omara Portuondo is scheduled to perform in the United States in March. Figures from the State Department show that the number of visas issued to Cuban artists and athletes has inched up slightly since plummeting during the former Bush administration. In the 2001 fiscal year, 860 such visas

Arts, State Power, and the Making of New Revolutionary Cultures.'' ``There's nothing formally written. But we've begun to see groups slowly being allowed to enter the country." As Los Van Van arrived in South Florida, signs of a changing Cuban-American community could be seen.

In late 1999, the band's performance was greeted by a protest more than 4,000 strong. Some threw garbage at concertgoers. A reporter was injured. People were led away in handcuffs. The lead-up to this past Sunday's concert in Miami was markedly different. A billboard alongside one of the city's major highways pictured Los Van Van playing on stage. Los Van Van's songs blending Cuban son, jazz and pop were played on Cuban-American radio, hardly imaginable a few short years ago. While a crowd of protesters gathered outside the concert, they were far outnumbered by those going to listen to the music. No items were thrown. No one was arrested. For Cubans who grew up on the island, Los Van Van's music, with lyrics on everything from love to identity, represent the songs of their youth. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 37

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

(Continued from last week) n pursuing initial H-1B petitions and extensions, service-based companies such as IT consulting firms should examine their employer-employee relationships and their business models to determine where they fall with regard to the factors delineated in the Memo. With regard to the company and the clients, what is each party's goal in a particular project and how are those goals set? The IT consulting company should clarify its processes, and clearly define for whom the beneficiary works, who the beneficiary reports to, is paid by, etc., to ensure that their employee is not somehow swallowed into the client's operations. Keep in mind that the consulting company need not control every aspect of its employees work day. The Memo clearly distinguishes the right to control

the employee from actual control of the employee: The right to control the beneficiary is different from actual control. An employer may have the right to control the beneficiary's job-related duties and yet not exercise actual control over each function performed by that beneficiary. The employer-employee

resulted in any type of physical or intellectual property? It is important for companies to pay close attention to the services they offer and the means by which they offer those services. There may be proprietary elements to their methods or processes, their high service level standards, or tools specific to their

An employer may have the right to control the beneficiary's job-related duties and yet not exercise actual control over each function performed by that beneficiary relationship hinges on the right to control the beneficiary. (Neufeld Memo, note 6.) In addition, the company should examine the various elements of its business - does it focus purely on staffing or does it engage in other pursuits such as software development or marketing or any other endeavor that has

company that their employees use in providing a service to a client. If a company markets itself through the quality and skills of its employees, that may be seen as a marker of the employer-employee relationship. The lack of proprietary software therefore should not undermine the ability of an employer to file an H-1B petition.

Those companies that are purely staffing agencies should explore whether they meet the requirements of an "agent" under the regulations. According to the regulations, in order to qualify as an agent performing the function of an employer, the staffing agency must guarantee the wages and other terms and conditions of employment by contractual agreement with the beneficiary or beneficiaries of the petition. The agent/employer must also provide an itinerary of definite employment and information on any other services planned for the period of time requested. 8 CFR 214.2(h)(2)(i)(F)(1). Thus the agent-as-employer must show that they are functioning as an employer, and provide proofs that establish the employer-employee relationship in the context of their business. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 38

Immigration Post

February 19, 2010

Federal judge questions immigration prosecutions AUSTIN, Texas: A federal judge in Austin has questioned whether it's worth the cost to U.S. taxpayers for prosecutors to pursue criminal convictions against some illegal immigrants who have no significant criminal history. U.S. District Judge Sam Sparks made the comments in an order in the cases against three Mexican citizens who were charged with illegal re-entry after being found in Travis County Jail. Sparks wrote that it has cost more than $13,350 to jail the three. He also noted the charges mean additional costs and work for prosecutors, defense lawyers, court personnel and others. ``The expenses of prosecuting illegal entry and re-entry cases (rather than deportation) on aliens without any significant criminal

history is simply mind-boggling,'' Sparks wrote. The Austin American-Statesman reported that the three all pleaded guilty, were sentenced by Sparks to time served and are be-

Sparks ordered prosecutors to be prepared to give reasons for prosecuting such cases ing deported. The newspaper reported that the order comes as Sparks' docket, like others in Texas, is filled with defendants charged with immigration crimes. Most of those prosecuted in Austin have been identified by

immigration officers at the Travis County Jail and charged with illegal entry after deportation. Many don't have a significant criminal history. Until a change in enforcement strategy about two years ago, they would have been deported and not prosecuted. Sparks ordered prosecutors to be prepared to give reasons for prosecuting such cases. In part because of Operation Streamline, a Bush administration project aimed at bringing criminal charges against most immigration violators in certain border areas, the federal prosecution of immigration violators went up nearly 9 percent during the 2009 fiscal year, according to researchers at Syracuse University who analyze Justice Department data. -AP

Cuban musicians trickle into US under Obama Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 36

``They still want to be connected to their homeland,'' Hugo Cancio, president of Fuego Entertainment, a Miami production company, said of Cubans who have immigrated here during the past 15 years. ``They understand that their culture and their music is untouchable. And they refuse to inherit the pain and suffering and hatred of the traditional historical exiles.'' For more conservative exiles, Los Van Van are another extension of the Castro regime. ``Inviting `Van Van' at this time is as though the U.S. would have authorized spokesmen for the South African apartheid regime to come to

the United States to perform during the final stages of apartheid's grotesque existence,'' said U.S. Rep. Lincoln Diaz-Balart, a Cuban-American Republican from Miami. As with many things Cuba, music is rarely seen as just notes on a page. Arturo Sandoval, the renowned jazz musician who defected in 1990, has commented about how he was not allowed to play jazz because it was ``music of the imperialists.'' Artists who have been blatantly critical of the regime, like Gorki Aguila of the punk group Porno para Ricardo, have been jailed and barred from performing on the island or having their songs played on the radio. At the same time, the govern-

ment has invested resources in educating musicians, building schools and conservatories, Fernandes notes. And some musical groups now sing openly about social ills on the island, like the Charanga Habanera song, ``Super Turistica,'' which relates the story of a prostitute, a growing problem in Cuba. Formell, Los Van Van's bassist, has been quoted often in Cuba's official press, including in August 2006, when Fidel Castro became gravely ill and transferred power to his brother, Raul. Formell wished ``brother Fidel'' a swift recovery and said it was a delicate moment, and necessary to prepare against the enemy. -AP

India Post

Immigration Post

India Post

February 19, 2010

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All Arpaio's deputies to get immigration training PHOENIX: Four months after it lost its power to make federal immigration arrests, the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office said it plans to train all 881 of its deputies in enforcing federal immigration law. Sheriff Joe Arpaio said local police agencies have the inherent power to enforce federal immigration law without getting approval from Washington. ``Once they removed that authority, I have said constantly nothing is going to change, and nothing really has changed that much, except that we don't have to do all the reports and be restricted in how many deputies we can use to fight illegal immigration,'' Arpaio said. He said his office's entire force needs to be trained because he expects immigration-related problems to worsen. Arpaio has taken a more aggressive approach to immigration enforcement than any other police boss in Arizona. Since early 2008, he has launched 13 immigration and crime sweeps across metropolitan Phoenix. The sweeps consist of deputies and volunteer posse members flooding an area of a city looking for traffic violators, people wanted on criminal warrants and others. Some of the patrols have been in heavily Latino areas.

Critics say officers racially profile Latinos in the patrols. Arpaio denies the allegations, saying people pulled over in the sweeps are approached because deputies have probable cause to believe they committed crimes. Arpaio's office lost its federal immigration arrest powers in October, when the U.S. government, which does most of the nation's immigration enforcement,

He said his office's entire force needs to be trained because he expects immigration-related problems to worsen changed its rules for allowing local police to enforce more expansive federal immigration laws. Arpaio has since conducted two more sweeps using state immigration laws. The U.S. Justice Department is investigating his office for alleged discrimination and for unconstitutional searches and seizures, though the federal agency would provide no other details on its probe. Arpaio believes the inquiry is focused on his immi-

gration efforts. He said his deputies will use their training only when they come across illegal immigrants in the regular course of their work. The efforts won't detract from investigating violence, drugs and other crimes, Arpaio said. Alessandra Soler-Meetze, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Arizona, said she doesn't expect much to change, except that the county will now be picking up the unspecified costs of training the officers. ``He (Arpaio) is going to continue terrorizing the Latino community,'' she said. Kris Kobach, law professor at the University of Missouri at Kansas City and an advocate of expanding local immigration efforts, is now serving as adviser to the sheriff's office and will help instruct deputies through video training. When 100 deputies from the sheriff's office received federal immigration training in early 2007 under a special program, the federal government paid the training costs. Arpaio wouldn't provide an estimate of what his latest training effort will cost his office, which had $17 million cut from its current budget. Kobach is ``being paid by another fund'' and is providing assistance to the county attorney's office, Arpaio said. -AP

Ga. debates incentives for federal crackdown ATLANTA: A Cobb County cal governments do not particilawmaker is proposing legisla- pate in these important protion that would provide financial grams.'' incentives to encourage local The Kennesaw Republican law enforcement to use a federal added that people who are in the program aimed at identifying il- country illegally are committing legal immigrants arrested in crimes and costing communities Georgia. money. The bill sponsored by Sen. Jerry Gonzales, president of John Wiles would provide a 20 the Georgia Association of percent bonus from Latino Elected Offithe state to local cials, said the bill is governments that ‘There is a morally reprehenuse a federal pro- growing sible and fiscally irgram that helps responsible. them identify illegal concern that ``I think Sen. immigrants in cus- many criminal Wiles is trying to tody. promote further raIt also would illegal aliens cial profiling in Georprovide a 10 percent are not being gia,'' Gonzales said. bonus for another ``This would open program that allows identified’ the floodgates for arrestee fingerprint Georgia to continue information to be checked to be seen as a state that is exagainst FBI criminal history tremely hostile towards immirecords. grants ... and would hurt ``Many people from other na- Georgia's ability to attract fortions move to the U.S. and Geor- eign investment to the state.'' gia and become law-abiding Gonzales said the bill ignores American citizens to find a bet- reports of racial profiling in metro ter life for their families,'' Wiles Atlanta and the state's current said in a statement after submit- budget crisis. ting the legislation. ``Unfortu“I thought the state had a revnately, there are some that enue issue,'' Gonzales said. ``Why choose to circumvent our laws. isn't the senator working to adThere is a growing concern that dress that issue rather than trying many criminal illegal aliens are to create a program that would not being identified because lo- decrease funds for the state?'' -AP

Tips on using the Neufeld Memorandum in H-1B petitions -Part II Cont’d from page 36

Here again, the company must do its due diligence to determine how its own operations prove the employer-employee relationship, using the factors delineated in the Memo as a guide. With regard to the itinerary requirement, the Memo has taken the specific terms of the regulations governing a different circumstance, namely where an agent represents both the employer and the beneficiary, and has applied the specifics of that limited regulation throughout the H-1B context. Thus, the Memo requires (taking language from 8 CFR § 214.2(h)(2)(i)(F)(2)), presentation of an itinerary that specifies "the dates of each service or engagement, the names and addresses of the actual employers, and the names and addresses of the establishment, venues, or locations where the services will be performed for the period of time requested." Neufeld Memo at 8. For most businesses, this requirement is not practicable and does not realistically

reflect how businesses contract with one another for consulting services. This requirement in fact does not make sense in terms of the control test and establishing the employer-employee relationship. It goes beyond that concept and requires businesses to predict future clients and projects with impossible accuracy. This requirement seems especially unnecessary in light of the fact that the DOL regulations already address the situation where a new worksite arises, and allows an employer to obtain a prevailing wage and file a new LCA to cover any new worksites before an H-1B beneficiary is sent to that site for a project. The regulations define the type of beneficiaries who may be sponsored by an agent-as-employer as workers who are "traditionally self-employed" or workers who "use agents to arrange short-term employment on their behalf with numerous employers." 8 CFR 214.2(h)(2)(i)(F). An argument can be made that individuals working

as IT consultants are the type of employees who normally use agents, i.e., staffing agencies, to arrange short-term employment. To some extent, these short-term projects define the IT consulting business and are in part why it is a successful business model.

The regulations define the type of beneficiaries who may be sponsored by an agent-as-employer as workers who are ‘traditionally self-employed’ We encourage IT consulting companies to conduct careful selfreviews because of the key role they play in the US economy. These companies provide an essential service to all levels of US companies, and often to major US companies that employ significant numbers of US workers. These companies depend on IT consult-

ing companies to assist on important projects of various lengths and terms - and often jobs for US workers are promoted and supported by such projects. Significantly, HR departments at companies who need the services of IT consulting firms have neither the time nor the capacity to find and hire an IT worker for short- or medium-term IT projects. US companies (and therefore US workers) will certainly be hurt by an end to IT consulting companies who can provide these services. Thus in a strong sense, IT consulting businesses are too important to fail. In light of the above discussion, we hope that USCIS will interpret the Neufeld Memo in the "totality of the circumstances" taking into account the goal of protecting workers and the business realities of the global economy. As the Memo states: [T]he petitioner will have met the relationship test, if, in the totality of the circumstances, a petitioner is able to present evidence to establish its right to control the

beneficiary's employment. In assessing the requisite degree of control, the officer should be mindful of the nature of the petitioner's business and the type of work of the beneficiary. When read carefully with an eye toward teasing out arguments in support of IT consulting firms, many of the factors presented in the Neufeld Memo are workable and not so limiting as we first believed. Of course, there is the strong possibility that USCIS will interpret the Memo narrowly rather than in the more flexible, reasonable, realistic terms we suggest here. But, in the hope that reason will prevail, we have presented some initial suggestions for IT consulting firms to assist them in clarifying or updating their business models to establish that their companies do in fact meet the control test under the factors delineated in the Neufeld Memo. * Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com

Immigration Post

February 19, 2010

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Okla. immigration ruling could affect Arizona law pressed an interest in their appeal. Justices in November asked the U.S. solicitor general to submit a brief outlining the Obama administration's position, an indication the Court is looking hard at taking the appeal. Business groups in Arizona are challenging a 2007 state law de-

The 10th US Circuit Court of Appeals upheld much of an injunction against Oklahoma's anti-illegal immigrant law signed to help reduce the economic incentive for immigrants to sneak into Arizona. Businesses found to have knowingly hired illegal immigrants can have their business licenses suspended or revoked. The law does not carry criminal penalties. A federal district court and the 9th Circuit appeals court have upheld the law. Oklahoma's law is different.

Rather than revoking operating licenses, it seeks to impose financial penalties on businesses that hire illegal immigrants. Despite the differences, Selden said the underlying legal question is the same: Do states have the right to enact laws sanctioning businesses for hiring illegal immigrants? On that issue, the appeals courts disagree, he said. Business groups argue that only the federal government can legally determine whether a business has hired an illegal immigrant. Arizona argues its law complies with federal law. Judges reviewing Oklahoma's law upheld a requirement that public employers and contractors verify the work eligibility of new employees through a federal database. That ruling agrees with the 9th Circuit ruling on Arizona's law, which requires all employers to use the database. Lawyers are awaiting a ruling from the 3rd Circuit appeals court, where judges heard an appeal of an employer sanctions law in Hazleton, Pa. -AP

Wash. immigrants learn how to become citizens MOUNT VERNON, Wash.: Nearly 70 people attended a clinic aimed at showing immigrants how to become naturalized citizens, part of a push by Washington state and an immigrant advocacy group to encourage legal permanent residents to become US citizens. But the Skagit Valley Herald reports this program _ called the New Americans Program _ is in jeopardy of losing its funding as lawmakers face a revenue shortfall in the state's budget. The state Legislature may eliminate the more than $500,000 per two-year budget the program gets.

``Many program participants tell us that it's even harder during this rough economy to become a citizen,'' said Charlie McAteer, who works for OneAmerica, the Seattle-based immigrant advocacy group behind the program. McAteer says that most of the people who attend the clinics have household incomes below the federal poverty line. An application for citizenship costs $675 and immigration lawyers can charge up to thousands of dollars. That's why the New Americans program was started, McAteer said, because many people seek legal aid. Volunteer immigration attor-

neys, paralegals and interpreters are offering free assistance to people filling out applications. Most immigrants there were from Mexico, followed by Ukrainians. But people ranging from England to Brazil also attended. Paul Baker, who was born in England, has lived in the United States since he was 13. After 35 years as a legal permanent resident, Baker picked up an application to become a citizen. ``I'd like to participate more in the democracy,'' Baker said. ``It's sort of like being an orphan, if you can't participate for almost half (your) adult life.'' -AP

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PHOENIX: Groups trying to overturn an Arizona law that prohibits employers from knowingly hiring illegal immigrants hope their chances of getting the U.S. Supreme Court to hear their appeal were improved this week by a lower court's decision on a similar law in Oklahoma. The 10th US Circuit Court of Appeals upheld much of an injunction against Oklahoma's antiillegal immigrant law, ruling that business groups had legal standing to challenge it. That ruling could be at odds with a 9th Circuit appeals court ruling that upheld an anti-illegal immigration law in Arizona. Lawyers trying to overturn the Arizona law hope the differing rulings will make the Supreme Court more likely to step in and create a uniform interpretation. ``It's a very encouraging development because it will certainly weigh in favor of the Supreme Court taking jurisdiction in the Arizona appeal,'' said David Selden, a lawyer representing business groups opposed to the law. The high court has already ex-

Horoscope

40 India Post

February 19, 2010

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ARIES Mar 21-Apr 20 Someone in immediate family will need extra care. Stocks you buy now could turn profitable in few weeks. You will be on your feet most of the time but the results will be good. You will be travelling to a nice area with family to meet an old friend. You will be excited about an upcoming trip. You will feel relieved after making a big payment.

LEO Jul 23-Aug 22 You will receive several weak offers. Business will be lot better than past some time. You may get rid of old associates and find alternative quickly. Timely action and quick thinking will save you from many troubles this week. You will meet an interesting person and become friendly. You will start to monitor bank balance regularly.

SAGITTARIUS

February 19 to February 25

Nov 23-Dec 22 Strong planets in the third will fill you with energy. Not everyone will like your plans, but you should still go ahead. Trip will take you closer to someone you care a lot. You will spend money on some fine and expensive items. Your expertise will help and change people's life. You will attend an interesting party and make some useful friends.

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MASOM should cut membership fee

ecently the Executive Committee of Midwest Association of Shia Organized Muslims (MASOM) increased the annual membership fee of MASOM without taking any opinion or vote from the members. This is not the democratic way of running executive matters. It amounts to dictatorship. The committee hiked up membership fee by 150% which everyone cannot afford. In the present economic situation, instead of reducing the membership fee the committee has put more burdens on

community members. In my opinion that is shred by many, the Annual Family Membership should be $50(dollars) and the annual single Membership should be $25(dollars). It is difficult to run MASOM only on annual membership fee. The Executive Committee has to use its own efforts to collect funds from the other sources. If the committee cannot accept this challenge then it should give responsibility to others. Shahid Razvi Chicago, IL

Disclaimer :- India Post does not endorse opinions expressed in the letters.

TAURUS Apr 21-May 20 You will be looking in all directions for fresh leads. Results will come but slowly. Bank balance will take a sharp dip. Planets will make you more energetic and you will finish lots of pending work. You will spend some time on phone and save money. Opponents and competition will be strong but cannot hurt. You will become much focused.

VIRGO Aug 23-Sept 22 Business will improve unexpectedly. Running around and meetings will not go waste at all. You will make few new and useful friends and receive practical tips from them. Reunion will be good and you will get to spend quality time with children. Do not few adversities slow you down as major changes just around the corner.

CAPRICORN Dec 23-Jan 19 Expect some dramatic improvement in career related efforts. You may be offered a dream come true opportunity. Concentration of Sun and Mercury in ninth will make you very diplomatic and provide the ability to solve even the toughest situation. Money will come in plenty but will be well spent on buying gifts for others.

GEMINI May 21-Jun 20 People in business will be paying large advertising bills. Money will go towards health care too. You may put some money away for rainy days also. Some uncertainty about career will fade away bringing big relief in mind. You may distance yourself from an ungrateful person without telling anybody the reason.

LIBRA Sept 23-Oct 22 Week full of few pleasant surprises. Offer will be huge and hard to turn down. Big contract is being drawn by the other side. You may show that you care in creative way and not expensive to people you love. You may pay a visit to an old friend with family. You will be making frequent calls overseas.

AQUARIUS Jan 20-Feb 18 You will be buying something very expensive for someone you love dearly. Strong Venus will take you closer to few good opportunities but the deal may not close right away. Serious help from an experienced person will be kind of bonus this week. You will start making preparation for an upcoming short vacation with family and friends.

CANCER Jun 21-Jul 22 Money will go towards repairs or purchase of another car. There will be lots of confusion in mind but will be cleared with the help of an experienced person. You will continue to make place in social circle and will be invited to an important gathering. Planets assures a better time financially. You will be signing a new contract.

SCORPIO Oct 23-Nov 22 You will be charging heavily on cards and may also borrow money against credit lines to meet temporary commitments. You will also need to deal with a government agency to resolve a headache. Some of you will finalize plan to move in early next month. It will be difficult to find right associates in a hurry. You will work extra hours.

PISCES Feb 19-Mar 20 Your ability to think outside the box will make you a serious contender for advancement in the professional world. You will go out of your way to entertain friends and yourself. Watch out for the person trying to flirt with you. Saturn in seventh will get you closer to an influential person who can really help you in future.

February 19, 2010

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India Post 41

Tech News Temporary halt on sealing of mobile towers

TechBiz

fter Allahabad High Court's orders on de-sealing of Mobile Towers directed to Noida Authority, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has also decided not to seal any of the towers in the Capital. The decision is exactly opposite to the orders issued by Delhi Government in the near past, which stated about the sealing of illegal towers. But MCD has asked for regularization of illegal mobile towers from operators with in the period of 1 month. This duration has been imparted by the civic body to fulfill all the formalities regarding regularization and submitting a fee of Rs. 5lakhs, failing which the Corporation will have to dismantle these towers.

Nagravision to bring enhanced interactive TV

udelski Group led Nagravision has joined hands with Samsung Electronics America to provide enhanced and interactive web services to the viewers. To actualize this, the company has plans to provide such TV applications that can receive online video content to the TV set only. This pact will enable Samsung to come up with such gadgets that will offer consumers' access to interactive and fascinating applications. These will be available at Samsung Apps, which is the world's first HDTV based application store that allows users to download and purchase applications from Samsung HDTV's, Home Theater Systems through Internet@TV and Blu-ray Players.

Zee Turner to debar Hathway channels

n the issue of left dues for past 10 months, Zee Turner has declared of stopping of 33 channels of Hathway Datacomm from airing. The step has been taken regarding not signing of new agreements after the expiring of older ones. Zee Turner is the joint venture between Essel Group and Turner Group, which deals into TV Channel distribution. In its statement Zee Turner stated that the signing on new agreement for the airing of 33 channels is mandatory as prescribed under the law.

42 India Post

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February 19, 2010

EditShare to demonstrate latest product lines

ditShare LLC, a company providing a new category of collaborative editing solutions designed for digital media workgroups and production companies, will be demonstrating its EditShare Complete Collaboration product line and its newly-acquired Geevs and Lightworks technologies at the Broadcast Video Expo 2010. At the EditShare stand, the company will highlight include EditShare Flow for multichannel ingest and browsing having the Universal Media Files that allows a single media file to be used simultaneously by Apple and Avid editors.

Indian American team wins NYC BigApps competition India Post News Service

NEW YORK: A start-up team of Indian American software professionals that developed an iPhone application called NYC Way that provides a range of useful information for New Yorkers as well as visitors to the city, were the Grand Prize winners of the "- in the inaugural NYC BigApps competition launched by Mayor Michael Bloomberg in October last year. While the Popular Choice award was based entirely on online voting, the team also won the Investor's Choice Award for the application with the highest potential for commercialization. Each of the awards comes with a $2500 cash prize. NYC Way is an iPhone application that bundles more than 30 New York City resources and provides information sorted by the user's current location. Team members include Puneet Mehta, Archana Patchirajan, Sonpreet Bhatia, Arun Arunachalam, Vivek Mehta, and Shariq Siddiqui. NYC Way was among the ten winning applications selected from a pool of more than 80 submissions that included a resource for better navigating the City and

its cultural resources, a guide to New York City schools, a live-feed commentary on New York City taxis, and an application that helps users locate books at Public Libraries. All awards were selected by a panel of media and technology entrepreneurs with the exception

nomic Development Robert C. Lieber, New York City Economic Development Corporation President Seth W. Pinsky, Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications Commissioner Carole Post, IAC Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer Jason Stewart, Bran-

NYC Way is an iPhone application that bundles more than 30 New York City resources and provides information sorted by the user's current location of the "Popular Choice Award," which was decided by an online public vote from people around the world. The City will hold the next competition, NYC BigApps 2.0, at the end of the year. The Mayor was joined at the announcement by Council Member Daniel Garodnick, Council Member Gale A. Brewer, Deputy Mayor for Eco-

don Kessler, Founder and CEO of ChallengePost, which administered the competition on behalf of the City and members of the winning developer teams. "We opened up the 170 datasets of City information to unleash the creativity and ingenuity of New Yorkers, and we were not disappointed," said Mayor Bloomberg. "The apps submitted

offer a range of unique capabilities, many of which use the data in ways we hadn't considered. We want New York City to stay ahead of the innovation and technology curve, and we'll continue to capitalize on our greatest asset - New Yorkers - to make sure we do. Thank you to all of those who submitted apps, and congratulations to the winners." Upon launching the competition in October 2009, the City made available more than 170 datasets from 30 agencies and commissions that included traffic updates, WiFi hotspots, taxi medallion and driver information, and restaurant inspection data. Since its launch, more than 39,000 unique visitors have gone to the competition's web site. Start-up and venture capital companies engaged with the City in efforts to grow the sector expressed significant interest in utilizing City data to create new digital applications. Through the NYC BigApps Competition, the City increases opportunities for job growth in the sector and facilitates the creation of applications which, in turn, increase government transparency and accessibility for residents and visitors alike.

VVIP choppers deal with Italian firm NEW DELHI: India's President and other top political leaders will soon have a bigger 'office in the sky' and travel in style with the government approving the purchase of 12 VVIP helicopters from an Italian manufacturer. "Yes, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has given its go-ahead for the VVIP helicopters deal at its meeting," a Defense Ministry official said here. The IAF's Headquarters Communication Squadron -- as the VVIP Squadron is called -will add the 12 Agusta Westland's AW-101 helicopters to its fleet and each of the flying

machines is expected to cost over Rs 300 crore. The AW-101 was zeroed in by the IAF against the Italian chopper's competitor Sikorsky's

rity Guard's special units that guard VVIPs. Agusta Westland describes AW-101 as the most advanced in technology, mission systems and

Over the past three years, the number of VVIP aircraft in the IAF Headquarters Communication Squadron has grown S-92 Superhawk after evaluation trials conducted by both the IAF and the Special Protection Group (SPG), the National Secu-

manufacturing expertise with a proven aircraft design with a large cabin in its class with standup head room, excellent safety

features and having latest vibration reduction technology. It has a long range for roles such as search and rescue and disaster relief too. Over the past three years, the number of VVIP aircraft in the IAF Headquarters Communication Squadron has grown. The AW-101 will join the fleet comprising five Embraer 135 Legacy jets and three Boeing Business Jets. The VVIP aircraft are equipped with self-protection suites, chaff dispensers and the latest communication instruments. -PTI

February 19, 2010

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Private sector role in rail infrastructure KOLKATA: Ahead of the Railway Budget for 2010-11 on February 24, Railways Minister Mamata Banerjee has emphasized on private sector involvement to improve rail infrastructure. "It is true that the Railways have a social obligation. Railways are the lifeline of the country. At the same time, it is also a business line. Without taking recourse to privatization or corporatisation, there is a need for involvement of private bodies in development of railway infrastructure," Banerjee said. The Railways have set up a group of ex-

Mamata Banerjee

perts headed by the secretary general of the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, to prepare a business plan to tone up the performance of the Railways, especially in project implementation through the public-private partnership (PPP), she said. The Railways, she said, have been moving towards commercialization of its activities to augment revenue by way of earnings from logistics parks, automobile hub, auto ancillary industries and multi-functional stations. The automobile hub at Shalimar in Howrah district on PPP basis would be ready by next month, she said while inaugurating a computerized reservation centre at Gariahat in South Kolkata. .

A Railways land bank has been prepared which had 1.12 lakh hectare all over the country. Of this, 21,000 hectare would be utilized for dedicated freight corridors for which site identification has been done, Banerjee said. "I want to put Railways land banks to productive use." Referring to the delay in implementation of projects, Banerjee said she was in favor of simplifying the tender process. "The tender process needs to be simplified. Short-term projects are getting delayed due to tender process by one to two years,

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;It is true that the Railways have a social obligation. Railways are the lifeline of the country. At the same time, it is also a business line. Without taking recourse to privatization or corporatisation, there is a need for involvement of private bodies in development of railway infrastructure,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Banerjee said causing suffering to prospective investors," she said. She said the Railways will sign a MoU with IIT, Kharagpur on February 13 to ensure inclusion of its students in research work on development of Railways infrastructure. "The MoU will envisage involvement of IIT students in research work on infrastructure development of the Railways," Banerjee said. If necessary, she said, the Railways would provide scholarship. Banerjee announced railway connectivity to Maoist-hit areas in West Midnapore and Purulia districts with introduction of two trains named Birsa and Jungle Mahal on February 13. -PTI

Airtel forays into Mobile App biz

harti Airtel, a leading provider inte grated telecommunications services in Asian region, marks its debut in the rapidly growing mobile application world. Tagged as India's first mobile applications store, Airtel has rolled - Airtel App Central. Through the Airtel App Central, Bharti Airtel if offering its widespread mobile customers with the opportunity to transform their basic phone into a Smart Phone by accessing over 1250 Apps across 25 categories for their business, games, books, social networking and other needs. These Apps can be purchased by a single click with no hassles of credit card

or cash payments. The cost of the App would be simply deducted from the available talk time for prepaid customers or would be added to the monthly bill for postpaid. Atul Bindal, President - Mobile Services, Bharti Airtel announced the launch. He remarks in a prepared statement, "As the undisputed leader in the Indian telecom industry, we are committed to constantly delighting our customers and offering innovations to enrich their experience. With the Airtel App Central - India's first mobile app store- we are offering a one-stop shop open 24x7 to meet all our customer's personal device needs.

Economic growth may beat 7.2 per cent this fiscal: FM NEW DELHI: Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee exuded the confidence that the economy could grow at a pace higher than the 7.2 per cent projected by the government for this fiscal. A day after the Central Statistical Organization (CSO) came out with the growth projection for 2009-10 fiscal, he said economic expansion could be in the upper band of various estimates. "The Economic Survey 2008-09 had indicated that the upper band of growth in real GDP for the year 2009-10 could be around 7.75 per cent... The growth outlook for the next two quarters and for the whole year is expected to be in the upper range of most predictions for the Indian economy," he said at a meeting on the Colombo Plan - a grouping of nations for economic and social improvement in south and Southeast Asia. Even 7.2 per cent growth is not discouraging in the context of subdued economic environment globally, he told reporters later on the sidelines. "When the final figures come, particularly for the third quarter, I think there may be improvement (over Central Sta-

Pranab Mukherjee

tistical Organization's estimate of 7.2 per cent). Anyway, 7.2 per cent in the current situation is not bad," he said. Referring to advance estimates of CSO last fiscal, Mukherjee said it had estimated 6.5 per cent growth for 2008- 09, but ultimately it turned out to be 6.7 per cent. -PTI

India Post

TechBiz Post

February 19, 2010

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Eminent economist K N Raj passes away THIRUVANATHAPURAM: only 26 years old. Eminent economist Kakkadan A distinguished academician, Nandanath Raj, who had made he also headed the Economics Designificant contribution in prepar- partment of Delhi University and ing India's first Five later served as its Year Plan, died here, Vice-Chancellor from family sources said. October 1969 to DeRaj (85) had been cember 1970. under treatment for He was one of old-age related health those instrumental in problems for quite setting up the Delhi some time. He is surSchool of Economics vived by two sons, inand also taught there cluding journalist around the same time Gopal Raj. when incumbent K N Raj A London School Prime Minister of Economics (LSE) alumnus, Raj Manmohan Singh and Nobel lauserved as economic adviser to reate economist Amartya Sen was Prime Ministers from Jawaharlal in its faculty. Nehru to P V Narasimha Rao. He In the 1970s, he returned to his had significant contribution in home state Kerala and founded the preparing the first Five Year Plan Centre for Development Studies, an as an expert member in the Plan- institution for applied economics ning Commission. Then he was and social science research. -PTI

Cabinet nod to revised air service agreement with Nepal NEW DELHI: India and Nepal are expected to soon sign a revised air services agreement that will lead to 'open skies' arrangement in cargo sector and further liberalize passenger flight operations. The approval for signing the Air Services Agreement (ASA) between the two countries was given by the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. "This ASA has the potential to spur greater trade investment, tourism and strengthening the cultural exchange between the two countries besides bringing it in tune with the developments in the international civil aviation scenario," an official spokesperson said. The spokesperson said the enhancement of India-Nepal relations has been facilitated by the growth in air services between the

The approval for signing the Air Services Agreement (ASA) between the two countries was given by the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh two countries. The new Air Services Agreement, based on International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) template, was negotiated and initialed in September 2009 with an aim of widening the field of aviation.

Sources said the revised agreement would lead to 'open skies' arrangement in cargo sector and liberalize passenger flight services between the two countries, except for a few metros. The remaining metros will be covered in due course, they said. -PTI

Finance Commission's report before the Budget NEW DELHI: The government has said it will table the 13th Finance Commission report on sharing the Center's tax receipts with states in Parliament before the Budget, which will be unveiled on February 26. "It will be tabled before the Budget," an official spokesperson told reporters while briefing them on the Cabinet meeting, which considered the recommendations of the Commission, which was headed by former Finance Secretary Vijay Kelkar.

Earlier, Finance Secretary Ashok Chawla had said the report would be tabled on February 25, a day before the Budget. He had said Economic Survey would also be tabled on February 25, and the Railway Budget on February 24. The Budget session would start from February 22. The Finance Commission had submitted a report to President Pratibha Patil recently where it had discussed the model for revenue sharing between Centre and state for the period 2010-11 to 2014-15.

It is believed that the Commission in its report has suggested higher allocation to the states during five years starting from next fiscal. The Commission's suggestions will be reflected in the Budget, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee had said earlier. The report assumes importance in the light of likely implementation of new indirect tax regime, Goods and Services Tax, and the new direct tax code in a couple of years. -PTI

Guj govt denies allegations in selling of GPPC stake AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat government has refuted allegations made by state Leader of Opposition Shaktisinh Gohil regarding the sale of equity in Gujarat Pipavav Power Company (GPPC) to Mumbai-based Swan Energy Ltd (SEL). "The allegations made by the Leader of Opposition are mischievous and politically motivated at a time when Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation (GSPC)'s IPO is in the offing," state government spokesperson Jaynarayan Vyas said in a release issued here. Vyas said GPPC was a subsidiary of GSPC and such politically motivated allegations will affect the IPO prospects of the state-

owned entity. He also rubbished allegations

Vyas said GPPC was a subsidiary of GSPC and such politically motivated allegations will affect the IPO prospects of the state-owned entity of corruption in the deal, saying it has been inked in order to bring

private investment into a government promoted entity. However, the state government's release did not say why bids were not invited to divest the equity in the government company. "GPPC's 702 MW gas-based Pipavav power plant is under implementation and it will go a long way, so one cannot expect its valuation in thousands of crores (of rupees)," he said, defending the government's decision of selling 49 per cent equity in Rs 381 crore to Swan Energy. Vyas also hit out at the Centre for not providing fuel linkage to the Pipavav power plant. -PTI

Classifieds

February 19, 2010

India Post 45

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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.,

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Notice is hereby given that sealed competitive bids will be accepted in the office of the GSA-Purchasing Department, County of Alameda, 1401 Lakeside Drive, Suite 907, Oakland, CA 94612 NETWORKING/NORTH COUNTY BIDDERS CONFERENCE RFQ #900655 for SELF CHECK KIOSKS, Wednesday, February 23, 2010, 10:00 a.m. ñ General Services Agency, 1401 Lakeside Drive, Room 222, 2nd Floor, Oakland, CA NETWORKING/SOUTH COUNTY BIDDERS CONFERENCE RFQ #900655 for SELF CHECK KIOSKS, Thursday, February 24, 2010, 2:00 p.m. ñ Dublin Public Library, 200 Civic Plaza, Program Room, Dublin, CA Responses Due by 2:00 pm on March 31, 2010 County Contact : Jeff Thomas (510) 208-9613 or via email: jeff.thomas@acgov.org Attendance at Networking Conference is Non-mandatory. Specifications and bid copies regarding the above may be obtained at the Alameda County GSA Current Contracting Opportunities Internet website at www.acgov.org. 2/19/10 CNS-1792060#

Classifieds

India Post

February 19, 2010

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

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Classifieds

February 19, 2010

India Post 47

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Datebook

48 India Post

February 19, 2010

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NEW YORK Upcoming

ILLINOIS Upcoming

NEW JERSEY Upcoming

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA Upcoming

Sat Feb 20

Fri Feb 19

Sun Feb 21

Sat Feb 20

• Basant Festival in NEW YORK!

• Rasa: Heart and Soul

• Abhishek's 7th annual Bridal Showcase

• Sneha Sapthami

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

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

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

Wed Feb 24

Sat Feb 20

Sun Feb 28

• Silicon Valley Reads

• Indophile - Comedy Show

• Evening of Bharata Natyam

Venue: Carolines, 1626 Broadway, NYC Time: 7pm Contact: 212-956-0101

• HOLI Hungama

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

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

Thurs Feb 25 • Yoga Empowerment Service Plus Venue: Art of Living Centre, 127 West 25th Street, 3rd floor, New York Time: 6:30pm to 10pm Contact: 203-737-0367

Sat Feb 27 • Holi Poornima Venue: Hindu Samaj Temple, 3 Brown Road, Wappingers Falls, New York Time: 7pm Contact: (845) 297-9061

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

Sun Feb 21 • South Asian Bridal Expo Venue: Milan Banquet Hall, 651 Lakehurst Rd, Waukegan, Illinois Time: 11am to 4pm Contact: 847 578 9000

Sun Feb 28 • Holi Celebrations Venue: Hindu Temple, 10915 Lemont Rd, Lemont, Illinois Contact: (630) 972-0300

WASHINGTON DC Upcoming

Thus Feb 25 • Radiate Enlightenment & Dance Like Shiva Venue: Gayatri Chetna Center, 240 Centennial Ave, Piscataway, New Jersey Time: 6:30pm to 9pm Contact: 732-317-4823

Sat March 27 • Marathi Vishwa-Vasantotsav 2010 Venue: Crosroads Middle School- South, 195 Major Road, Monmouth Junction, New Jersey Time: 3pm to 8pm Contact: 732-355-9844

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

Fri Feb 26 • SABA Gala Venue: Green Room, War Memorial and Performing Arts Center, San Francisco, California Contact: (415) 894-9442

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".

Thurs Feb 25

Sat March 27

• Spin In Midtown Ladies Night

• 2010 Spring Festival

Venue: Lotus Lounge, 1420 K Street NW, Washington Time: 10pm Contact: 202-289-4222

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

Sat Feb 27

Sat May 29

• Elite 8 Bhangra Invitational

Tues March 16

• Vishwa Marathi Natya Sammelan

• Ugadi Celebrations

Sun May 2

Venue: George Washington University's Auditorium , 21st Street NW, Washington Contact: info@emdoentertainment.com

• 9th Muslim Matrimonial Hosted by MillanUS.com

Venue: Hindu Temple, 10915 Lemont Rd, Lemont, Illinois Time: 10:30am to 7:30pm Contact: (630) 972-0300

Sun Feb 28

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

Venue: Adria Hotel & Conference Center, 220-33 Northern Blvd., Bayside, New York Time: 3pm to 9pm Contact: 516-840-0396

• Holi 2010

Sat March 6

• Bharata Natyam Student Recital 2010

• Vibha DC Rangeela Rendezvous

Venue: City Center Studios, 130 West 56th street, studio #3, NYC Contact: (917) 214-6466

Venue: Heritage India, 1337 Connecticut Ave, NW, WDC Time: 10pm Contact: volunteer@dc.vibha.org

Venue: Shri Mangal Mandir, 17110 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland, WDC Contact: (301) 421-0985

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

Sat March 20 • Nachle Express 2010 Dance Show Venue: The MAC, 425 Fawell Boulevard, Glen Ellyn, Ill Time: 6:30pm to 9:30pm Contact: (630) 216-9632

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.

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

Sat Feb 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 27 Garba With Attitude 2010 Venue: Theatre for the Performing Arts, 4900 La Mirada Blvd, La Mirada, California Contact: (626) 242-5469

Thurs March 4 South Asian Professional Singles Venue: The Auld Dubliner, 71 South Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA Contact: (951)743-4995

Fri March 26 Music and Dance Festival 2010 Venue: Jewish Community Center, Los Angeles, California Time: 7pm to 10pm Contact: 858-200-7481

Philosophy

February 19, 2010

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Page Sponsored by Sahanis tive imaging about their surgery. But, this does bring the dimension of a possibility in our lives. If you can image your thoughts you should try this technique during these exercises. Positive state of existence Many of the successful people or high efficiency people have natural positive state when it comes to the area they excel in. If you are one of these successful people you may want to work on areas where you tend to have (Cont'd from last week) ne of my patients introduced me to the process of positive thinking. The patient had recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer. He had done his home work and wanted me to do his surgery. How can he control the outcome of his surgery by me? The patient gave me a book on positive imaging by Reverend Vincent Peele. It takes us beyond the world of thinking and places in the realm of imaging. The patient would imagine that he is on the operating table and I am doing his surgery. The surgery atmosphere is wonderful. The anesthesia is going well. The nurses are doing their job efficiently. The surgeon is doing his job. There is very little bleeding, if any. All this goes on to the end of surgery and he recovers well. Is this dreaming or is this positive imaging to the details? His outcome was excellent. There have been excellent outcomes in other patients too, who did not do posi-

Many of the successful people or high efficiency people have natural positive state DR KRISHNA BHATTA

when it comes to the area they excel in

negative thoughts. You may be very successful in making money. People follow you as a leader in financial field. You may be on the cover of all the financial magazines. Yet, you may be very lonely inside. Positive energy helps you become a complete person. You have found your happy point. There still may be a problem with your spouse. You may not be talking to your son. But, it is ok. Once the negativity is out, you will be fulfilled as you are. Fulfillment on the outside just follows. Life outside is a reflection of state of existence inside. Once every-

part in nishkam karma): nehabhikrama-naso 'sti pratyavayo na vidyate svalpam apy asya dharmasya trayate mahato bhayat In this, there is no waste of the unfinished attempt, nor is there production of contrary results. Even very little of this Dharma protects from great fear. ||2:40|| 1. No effort of nishkam karma is wasted 2. There are no obstacles (pratyavaya) in the path of nishkam karma and 3. Nishkama karma protects one from the greatest fear The Supermind

up randomly) and nothing else. You with your thought are just waiting for some miracle to happen. And suddenly it does happen. You are now dipping into what Aurobindo has called the 'Supermind'. You are one with this Supermind. Now you are able to process the thoughts at a different level. You are not alone. The input is coming from all around. You may need to develop a meditative mind to get there, but it is possible. Meditation then will start to have a greater meaning in your life. (To be continued)

meaning of a religious life. Knowledge is memory and if you have observed the actual, the now is not memory. In observation memory has no place. The actual is what is actually happening. The second later is measurable and this is the way of memory. To observe the movement of

structure of memory, to observe this limitation and to help the student to see this. We learn from books or from a teacher who has a great deal of information about a subject and our brains are filled with this information. This information is about things, about nature, about everything outside of us and when

our modern education. The act of learning, as we have pointed out, is the act of pure observation and this observation is not held within the limitation of memory. We learn to earn a living but we never live. The capacity to earn a living takes most of our life; we have hardly any time for other things. We find time for gossip, to be entertained, to play, but all this is not living. There is a whole field which is the actual living, totally neglected. To learn the art of living one must have leisure. The word leisure is greatly misunderstood, as we said in our third letter. Generally it means not to be occupied with the things we have to do such as earning a livelihood, going to the office, factory and so on, and only when that is over is there leisure. Excerpted from Letters to Schools Volume One The 24th death anniversary of J. Krishnamurti falls on February 17.

Field of actual living is totally neglected

Knowledge is measurable, more or less, but in learning there is no measure

J KRISHNAMURTI

limitation prevents us from comprehending ourselves. Knowledge is measurable, more or less, but in learning there is no measure. This is really very important to understand, especially if you are to grasp the full

By and by this exercise will prepare you for ultimate brainstorming power. Once you are able to do the exercise as above for few weeks, you will need to expand your horizons. Be open to input from the outside universe while processing the thought that you have randomly picked up. As if you have stopped your input and as if you have stopped processing from your side. You and your thought (picked

Life outside is a reflection of existence inside

he whole movement of life is learning. There is never a time in which there is no learning. Every action is a movement of learning and every relationship is learning. The accumulation of knowledge, which is called learning and to which we are so accustomed, is necessary to a limited extent, but that

thing is at peace inside, you become peaceful outside. Thought management is not really enough to bring about these changes. Meditation works much better. Meditation also helps generate energy which then can be conserved in the form of positive energy state. Positive thinking then comes naturally to you. It is worth taking a note from Krishna, from Bhagavad-Gita, who talks about attributes of such a person (who are able take

an insect needs attention - that is if you are interested in observing the insect or whatever interests you. This attention again is not measurable. It is the responsibility of the educator to understand the whole nature and

we want to learn about ourselves we turn to books that tell about ourselves. So this process goes on endlessly and gradually we become second-hand human beings. This is an observable fact throughout the world and this is

Fight with yourself, why fight with external foes? He who conquers himself through himself, will obtain happiness. -Jain saying A gift is pure when it is given from the heart to the right person at the right time and at the right place, and when we expect nothing in return" Bhagavad Gita That which permeates all, which nothing transcends and which, like the universal space around us, fills everything completely from within and without, that Supreme non-dual Brahman -- That Thou Art. -Nisargadatta Maharaj What is the proof of an object? You say you see an object. But you actually see only form. Form is nothing but seeing. So you see only seeing. But did you really see even seeing? No. Because seeing can never exist distinct and separate from you. So you did not see at all. Therefore no object exists. -Atmananda Krishna Menon Loud speech, profusion of words, and possessing skillfulness in expounding scriptures are merely for the enjoyment of the learned. They do not lead to liberation. -Adi Shankaracharya The Divine is the sea. All religions are rivers leading to the sea. Some rivers wind a great deal. Why not go to the sea directly? -Mother Meera

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February 19, 2010

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Resuming the dialogue is not enough ALI AHMED

Indian Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao

he offer of talks to Pakistan has come not a day too early. That the preceding muscle flexing by General Kayani in a power point presentation on the Pakistani Army's world view to journalists was not allowed to delay this initiative indicates that the pendulum of India's strategic elite has once again swung towards the liberal end. Keeping the dialogue running and resuming the composite dialogue, that continues to be 'paused', should now be a priority. Not doing so could materialize a scenario painted by former Army Chief, 'Paddy' Padmanabhan. Padmanabhan would be just shy of Sundarji in any hypothetical intellectual ranking of India's brass. Even if his book India Checkmates America 2017 (New Delhi: Manas, 2004) does not make this explicit, it bears recall that his paper as a Lieutenant Colonel figured in the famous Sundarji postal seminar at the College of Combat. His depiction of the 2010 Lohri Day massacre in Bakshi Stadium makes a compelling read. He writes, "Every Indian gun able to bear on Pakistani frontline defenses in POK began firing on one target after another with maximum number of guns concentrated on each target in turn." The IAF quickens retaliation and takes out all Pakistani planes scrambled. This brings the Pakistani DGMO to the 'hotline' begging India to stop. In the General's verdict, "We punished Pakistan for her misdeeds…We acted with firmness, maturity and decisiveness." Nevertheless, the situation is allowed to drift and come 2017, Pakistan launches a conventional attack on India. Within a day, the General, perhaps anticipating 'Cold Start', has Indian pincers virtually surrounding Lahore and penetrating 80 km into Sind while the PAF is 'nearly finished'. This

sets the stage for the nuclear 'backdrop' to come to the foreground. At this stage the second front is opened by the collusive power. Within three days Pakistan has 'comprehensively lost'. And the Mullahs are at the gates of the 'ageing general'. Indians move in consultation with their enemy of an hour ago, the US. The extremist threat to Pakistan and its nuclear arsenal is taken as a common foe bringing them together. Indian paratroopers on landing fight alongside the Pakistani troops warding off the Jihadist coup. Though muted, the nuclear genie comes up twice in the book. Once in the discussion on how the good going in India's 'Cold Start' raises possibility of a nuclear response, and second on the threat to Pakistani nuclear weapons from extremists taking over the state. The former does not materialize eventually in the book since the dictator, modeled on former President Musharraf, is taken as a realist. The latter sees the Americans mulling over taking over

Since coercion is not working and military means may prove counter-productive, India needs to move beyond the well worn realist paradigm for innovative approaches to Pakistan. Resuming the dialogue is not enough Pakistan's nuclear assets while Indians save the Pakistani dictator and state. The aftermath of the war in Iraq and Afghanistan not having played out at the time of writing, the General painted a bright post-war future to his 48 hour long war. The danger however is that reality is usually stranger than fiction. The war ends on this note of Indian 'magnanimity'. The crucial question is 'Should it take a war?' In his Epilogue, the General appears to think so writing, "We hope the blood letting of 70 long years has sated the appetite of the most jingoistic of our people." The challenge for strategy is to avert the seeming necessity. The strategy appears to be that in case this recurs, India could threaten realistically to replicate

India Post Dialogue dilemma Pakistan Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir

the response in the book. This along with US pressure would force Pakistan to finally act. Triggering off an internal conflict in Pakistan would make Pakistan's establishment lean on India, as in the fictional scenario of India rescuing the beleaguered dictator. If successful, this would establish India as the central regional power. In case relations were to be resumed and this to recur, then to compensate for the internal political embarrassment, India may feel it necessary to act rather than merely threaten. In light of there being nothing to be gained by talking, since the Pakistani regime cannot deliver, India can afford to wait. With Kashmir on the mend through secret parlays with separatists, there is also no incentive to talk meaningfully even if talks are resumed. Sensing that Obama's December speech has given Pakistan room for maneuver it would likely manage its 'two front' problem by first seeing off developments on the western front. In this, rehabilitation of Taliban in a power sharing arrangement in Kabul would be aimed for. It expects the delicacy in NATO's position to stay India's hand. The terror attacks it had been subject to have ceased since the end of the Waziristan operations. No wonder Pakistan has indicated to visiting Mr Gates its unwillingness to undertake any further operations. Unlikely to end up a 'failed state' due to the KerryLugar bailout, Pakistan will return. Since coercion is not working and military means may prove counter-productive, India needs to move beyond the well worn realist paradigm for innovative approaches to Pakistan. Resuming the dialogue is not enough. The writer is a Security Analyst. Courtesy IPCS

akistanis are not used to resolving their problems through dialogue. They have more faith in the gun. Witness the long line of dictators in their short history. And now, in every district, they are using the gun to settle issues among themselves. With India also for all these sixty years they have tried to resolve disputes with use of force. When direct force did not work, they have tried subterfuge, sending in terrorists to stage Mumbai-type attacks and later disclaiming all responsibility by calling them nonstate actors. These "non-state actors" better known as jihadis recently held a huge rally in Pakistan occupied Kashmir demanding freedom to annex Kashmir. The Pakistani Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani openly came to their aid by promising "political, moral and diplomatic support" to the Pakistan-inspired separatist campaign in Kashmir. This is an euphemism for encouraging terrorist action. Amid this saber-rattling, the talks offer from India has caught Pakistan on the wrong foot. Not long ago Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi was threatening to go to a UN forum if India does not resume talks with Pakistan. Now that India has indicated its willingness, Qureshi was found scoring propaganda points that India has knelt to Pakistan by offering talks, and that Pakistan has not. He was at pains to convince his constituents that India has blinked first after refusing to talk for more than a year after Mumbai attacks. Losing the Bangladesh war to India in 1971 has dealt a deep blow to Pakistani psyche. After that war, they are loath to be seen bowing or conceding to India on any point. At any international fora, be it sports or politics, they want to win against India, show it down or humiliate it. They would sup with the devil to do so. Thus, even before the dialogue can begin, the two sides are squabbling over the agenda. Official Pakistan propaganda has ensured that the Pakistanis believe they are superior to the Indians in every way. In this scenario, they do not want to be seen as losing on the table what they hope to gain through encouraging violence. While India wants the talks to center on terrorism and other issues "hurting" bilateral relations, Pakistan wants to bring in Kashmir straightaway. It is reluctant to accepting talks under a new framework or parleys that did not lead to the restoration of the "composite dialogue" process that covers eight issues, including the Kashmir dispute. The composite dialogue was suspended after the Mumbai attacks. But the dilemma for Pakistan is it doesn't also want to be seen as spurning the Indian offer. As long as Pakistan has a soft corner for certain brand of terrorist groups, there is little chance for talks to succeed. It has also been emboldened by hints of US tiring of the Afghanistan war and planning a pullout in the not too distant future. That would leave the field open to Pakistan to resume its game of using non-state actors as a foreign policy tool. Mumbai attack mastermind Hafiz Saeed is not only roaming free, he was allowed to vent his diatribe against India at a jihadi rally and other fora. Pakistan has steadfastly refused to rein him in. This is not a good omen for the talks. The deafening silence from the US on this jihadi rally is also ominous. At the London talks, the western powers were eager to invent "moderate" Taliban and buy them over with their dollars. And they would need Pakistan to cooperate in this endeavor. And what is the price Pakistan will demand? They would want western powers to lean on India for concessions on Kashmir. So whatever India may decide, world pressure on Kashmir is going to increase.

February 19, 2010

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February 19, 2010