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Nancy Powell
No differences with Powell: Obama Admin Details on page 5
Dr Sumeet Chugh
Prestigious award for IndianAmerican Details on page 8
Top Republican post for Indian American Details on page 8
Save millions by changing font: India teen Details on page 10
INDIA POST SURVEY survey@indiapost.com This week’s question
Denial of L-1 visas will further strain ties? Last week’s result
Will the BJP infights affect their performance? YES 47%
NO 53%
VOL 19, No. 1020
April 4, 2014
50¢
Periodical Postage
INDIANS HEAD LIST OF L-1 VISA DENIALS
WASHINGTON: Indians are experiencing a significantly higher denial rate of the American non-immigrant L-1 visa as compared to applicants from any other country, a US think-tank has said. "It appears much of the increase in the denial rate has been focused on Indian nationals. US Citizenship and Immigration Services denied more new L-1B petitions for Indians in FY 2009 (1,640) than in the previous nine fiscal years combined (1,341 denials FY 20002008)," the National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP) said in its report. L-1B is a non-immigrant visa that allows companies to send employees who have worked abroad for at least a year and possess 'specialized knowledge' to work in the US for up to five years. In its latest report, NFAP said in fiscal 2009, the denial rate of new L-1B petitions for Indians increased to 22.5 per cent even though there was no change in regulations. In contrast, for Canada, the UK, China and other countries, the denial rate in FY 2009 ranged from 2.9 to 5.9 per cent for new L-1B petitions. USCIS did not release country-specific data for FY 2012 and FY 2013 but interviews with employers and attorneys indicate that problems with receiving approvals for L-1B petitions involving Indian nationals have continued, it said.
Narendra Modi
Modi as PM to enjoy diplomatic immunity: US Details on page 5
Court rejects lawsuit against Ro Khanna Details on page 9
Bharara pats himself on prosecutions Details on page 6
US looks to working with new govt Details on page 10
Missing Indian student's father alleges foul play Details on page 10
CONTENTS Bollywood ---------------------- 28-29 Classifieds ------------------------- 52 Community Post -------------- 18-26 Date Book -------------------------- 47 Edit Page --------------------------- 54 HealthScience Post --------- 32-35 Horoscope ------------------------- 11 Immigration Post ------------- 44-46 Life Style ----------------------- 48-51
HONORED GUESTS: President Pranab Mukherjee presents Padma Bhushan award to
Philosophy ------------------------- 53
Susanne Hoeber Rudolph and Lloyd I Rudolph, professors of political science from the
Publisher’s Diary ------------------ 4
University of Chicago during Padma Awards 2014 at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on
Real Estate -------------------- 38-39
March 31. Details on page 6. See also University of Chicago opens center in Delhi.
Details on page 5
Certified by “CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL Readership 117,765”
TechBiz Post ------------------- 12-14 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 41-43
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Publisher’s Diary
T
he number of NRIs in the world may be too small to make any impact on the results of Indian elections. But that is no reason to deny them their right to vote. There is even a public interest litigation on which the Supreme Court has asked the government to inform it why the NRIs registered in the electoral rolls of their constituencies cannot vote from abroad. This is a crucial election in India and the NRIs are contributing heavily in it. They now feel that India should do more to include them and are demanding that they could at least be allowed to vote at the country's missions abroad. There are 114 countries in the world who have adopted external voting. Out of 114 countries 20 of them are Asian. The public interest litigation has been filed by Dr. Shamsheer V.P, a doctor by profession, settled abroad for about 12 years and also a recipient of highest civilian honor to NRIs - the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman. He is seeking postal ballot for NRI voters. The apex court has asked the Attorney General to inform it by April 7 the feasibility of postal ballot for registered NRI voters to vote from abroad. The UPA government's main strategy of functioning has been delaying matters. So a timely decision may not be possible for the 2014 elections but at least it could clear the ground for future elections in which the NRIs could take part. Among the submissions made to the court different external voting patterns have been highlighted like Personal Voting (in diplomatic missions); Postal Voting (person of choice casting vote); Electronic Voting (through phone or computers). The interest among NRIs is so high that some of them are physically making it to India in time for voting. Some of them are going for the fun of it even though they do not have a vote. Many are campaigning from abroad thanks to the electronic media which makes it possible for them to feel they are taking part.
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HIGHLIGHTS Bollywood: Wedding plans The heartthrob of Bollywood, Ranbir Kapoor might get hitched with his sweetheart Katrina Kaif by 2015 end.
Cover Story: L-1 visa denial Indians are experiencing a significantly higher denial rate of the American nonimmigrant L-1 visa compared to others
Community: Thanks for support After victory in Republican primary, Larry Kaifesh thanked Indian-Americans for their contribution and support
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Immigration: Paying the price It was the government, not Hizam or his father, who made the mistake; and yet it is Hizam who must pay the price
Life Style: Fashion week The fashion week in Delhi kickstarted with Bollywood’s Shilpa Shetty, Alia Bhatt and Kangana Ranaut taking part.
Techbiz: Global warming If the world doesn't cut pollution of heattrapping gases, harms of global warming could spiral "out of control"
Travel: Rameswaram Rameshwaram, one of the holiest places in Tamil Nadu, is located on a beautiful island in the lower side of India
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April 4, 2014
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Indians head list of L-1 visa denials WASHINGTON: Indians are experiencing a significantly higher denial rate of the American nonimmigrant L-1 visa as compared to applicants from any other country, a US think-tank has said. "It appears much of the increase in the denial rate has been focused on Indian nationals. US Citizenship and Immigration Services denied more new L-1B petitions for Indians in FY 2009 (1,640) than in the previous nine fiscal years combined (1,341 denials FY 2000-2008)," the National Foundation for American Policy (NFAP) said in its report.
L-1B is a non-immigrant visa that allows companies to send employees who have worked abroad for at least a year and possess 'specialized knowledge' to work in the US for up to five years. In its latest report, NFAP said in fiscal 2009, the denial rate of new L-1B petitions for Indians increased to 22.5 per cent even though there was no change in regulations. In contrast, for Canada, the UK, China and other countries, the denial rate in FY 2009 ranged from 2.9 to 5.9 per cent for new L-1B petitions.
USCIS did not release countryspecific data for FY 2012 and FY
"It is very difficult for companies to make business decisions when there is so much uncertainty in the L-1 visa process," said Lynden Melmed
US envoy in India Nancy Powell resigns NEW DELHI: In a sudden development, US Ambassador to India Nancy Powell has resigned in the midst of general elections in India in which Narendra Modi is perceived to be a front runner for the post of Prime Minister. The announcement of her resignation to her colleagues in the US mission here came a week after media reports that she may be shipped out by the Obama Administration to "clean the state" with India. Powell has been in India for less than three years. "US Ambassador to India Nancy J Powell announced in a US Mission Town Hall meeting March 31 that she has submitted her resignation to President Obama and, as planned for some time, will retire to her home in Dela-
ware before the end of May," an announcement in the US Embassy website said. Embassy sources did not want to hazard a guess on the decision of the 67year-old career service officer to quit her post and return home at a time when India is in an election process and Washington is also deeply interested in its outcome. There was media speculation a week ago that Powell would be replaced with a political appointee as an attempt by the Obama administration to "clean the state" with India.
No differences with Powell: Obama Admin WASHINGTON: The Obama Administration has refuted reports that US Ambassador to India Nancy Powell has resigned because of any differences with it and instead said she is ending a distinguished thirty-seven year career. "Not any truth to your question about differences - she is retiring after 37 years of service," State Department Deputy Spokesperson Marie Harf said when asked about reports that Powell has resigned due to differences with the US Government. Powell announced in a US Mission Town Hall meeting that she has submitted her resigna-
tion to President Barack Obama. As planned for some time, she will retire to her home in Delaware before the end of May, Harf said. "She (Powell) is ending a distinguished thirty-seven year career that has included postings as US Ambassador to Uganda, Ghana, Pakistan, Nepal and India as well as service in Canada, Togo, Bangladesh, and Washington, where she was most recently Director General of the Foreign Service," Harf said. Powell was appointed US ambassador to India on April 19, 2012. Normally the tenure of a US Ambassador is for two years. -PTI
Nancy Powell
The report had said Powell had dragged her heels on meeting Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi and was perceived as being "too close" to the UPA's foreign policy establishment. However, when Washington decided to warm up to Modi, who is perceived as one of the front runners for the prime minister's post, Powell met Modi on February 13, ending a nine-year-old boycott of the Gujarat leader on the issue of 2002 post-Godhra riots. The US move marked a u-turn in its earlier stand of having nothing to do with Modi, whose visa it cancelled in 2005 under a domestic law on the issue of "severe violations of religious freedom". Ever since it had refused to review its policy. Earlier, the EU and Britain had also ended their boycott of Modi and warmed up to him in the run up to the polls. Cont’d on page 6
2013 but interviews with employers and attorneys indicate that problems with receiving approvals for L-1B petitions involving Indian nationals have continued, it said. "Preventing companies from transferring their own employees into the US discourages job creation, innovation and investment from taking place in America," said Stuart Anderson, NFAP executive director. According to the report, the continuing high rate of denials and requests for evidence for L1B petitions has a negative impact
on the ability of companies to make products and services in the US and compete globally. "It is very difficult for companies to make business decisions when there is so much uncertainty in the L-1 visa process," said Lynden Melmed, partner, Berry Appleman & Leiden and former chief counsel at USCIS. "A company is going to be unwilling to invest in a manufacturing facility in the US if it does not know whether it can bring its own employees into the country to ensure its success," he added. -PTI
Modi as PM would enjoy diplomatic immunity: US WASHINGTON: The nine-year his ascension likely affect his US visa ban on Narendra Modi prospects to receive a US visa? will automatically be lifted and he Would the US be required to grant would enjoy diplomatic immunity him a diplomatic visa? How might if he becomes the prime minister, the International Religious Freea Congressional report has said. dom Act be interpreted should he "Modi is widely considered to apply for a visa?' be one of the front-runners as The report dated March 18 was prime ministerial candidate of his made public on March 31. Bharatiya Janata Party. It also refers to the recent cases If Narendra Modi were to be- in which Modi was given a clean come Prime Minister of India, he chit by the courts and investigawould automatically be eligible for tive agencies. an A-1 (diplomatic) visa as head In December 2010, a Special of state, regardless of the purpose Investigative Team appointed by of his visit," the Congressional the Supreme Court of India had Research Service (CRS) said in its found "no substantial incriminatcommunication to US lawmakers. ing evidence" that Chief Minister In 2005, the US had denied visa Modi had let the rioters rampage to Modi in the wake of the 2002 against the Muslims in February Gujarat riots and has since not 2002, it said. revoked its decision. "On the other hand, the Gujarat The seven-page report 'Visa Policy: the case of Narendra Modi' A Special Investigative was prepared by the Team appointed by the CRS - an independent Supreme Court of India had and bipartisan wing of the US Congress - at the found "no substantial inrequest of several lawcriminating evidence" that makers, most who have been opposed to a US Chief Minister Modi had let visa to Modi. the rioters rampage The views and reports of the CRS are meant to keep the lawmakers in- High Court continues to criticize formed and is non-binding either Chief Minister Modi for his 'inacon the Congress or the US Gov- tion and negligence' during the ernment. violence," the report said. Congressmen Republican Joe The report said Modi as the Pitts and Democrat Keith Ellison Prime Minister would enjoy diplawmaker had asked a set of five lomatic immunity. questions on the prospects of US However, it is only US Presigranting a visa to Modi if he is dent Barack Obama who can exerelected as the Prime Minister of cise his authority to deny a visa India. to Modi as the Prime Minister of The lawmakers had asked India if he deems that would be 'What is the process for approval detrimental to the American interof a US visa if Modi were to apply est. for one?' and 'Were Modi elected Cont’d on page 6 Prime Minister of India, how would
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Good show by AAP can change political landscape: Rudolphs NEW DELHI: Academicians Lloyd and Susanne Rudolph, who were presented with Padma Bhushan award, predict significant changes in Indian politics if Aam Aadmi Party performs well in the Lok Sabha elections. The Rudolph couple, who are professors at the University of Chicago and have researched on Indian democracy and elections for nearly six decades, further say that BJP's Prime Ministerial can-
could play spoiler in the general elections. "... AAP as far as I can see is an urban party and is more appealing to middle class and younger people. If it does well in other cities, then there will be something significant in national politics," he said in an interview here. Noting that no party is likely to have a majority in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, Lloyd says that even as a small party at the
Susanne and Lloyd Rudolph
didate Narendra Modi appeared to be re- inventing himself and was "moving to the centre" (of political ideology). Lloyd and Susanne were presented Padma Bhushan by President Pranab Mukherjee for their extensive work on India, which began way back in 1956. About their views on AAP, Lloyd told PTI that so far there has been only one measure of their performance and referred to their good showing in Delhi assembly election last year. "We had only one measure and that was Delhi election. They
Centre, AAP could have a considerable influence if there is a need to form a coalition government. However, if BJP emerges as the single largest party, then "I don't think AAP is going to join BJP," he added. "Was AAP's Delhi performance just a flash in the pan or it is going to play out in other big cities in the country," that is something that has to be seen in general polls, Lloyd said. On Narendra Modi, Lloyd says the BJP Prime Ministerial candidate is trying to convert himself
into a moderate. "He is moving to the centre. We had written many years ago about the centrist tendencies of Indian politics. He was pictured as an extremist because of his communal positions, "Now he is trying to shed that (right-wing) image and become a centrist. He is saying that don't think about my communal past, think about my capacity to make Gujarat grow and economy grow. "He is trying to re-invent himself as an economic growth person and as a model who is identifying himself with mainstream Indian (politics)....To what extent that will succeed is to be seen in the elections," Lloyd said. On her part, Susanne feels that India's landscape has "changed strikingly", especially with urbanization and decrease in number of people engaged in agriculture. Together they have authored many books including 'Postmodern Gandhi and Other Essays'. In 2008, a three-volume writing of the two titled 'Explaining Indian Democracy: A FiftyYear Perspective" was released. Though Lloyd describes India as a "great and surprising success", he appears cautious about its current state of affairs as reflected in his remarks that the "country both economically and politically seems to be kind of stuck". "The last time there was a majority elected government was in the ninth general elections. Since then we have had hung Parlia-
University of Chicago opens center in Delhi India Post News Service
NEW DELHI: The University of Chicago has opened a major new academic center in New Delhi, supporting opportunities for collaboration among schol-
ars and students from India and Chicago across academic disciplines. U.S. Ambassador to India Nancy Powell took part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony as part of a weekend-long celebration that also included aca-
UChicago celebrates opening of Center in Delhi
demic panel discussions among American and Indian scholars, and a gala dinner. "The opening of the Delhi Center is a very important event for the University of Chicago because of what it represents about our commitment to academic work in India and with India, and because of how it reflects the University's thinking about the importance of its global activities," University President Robert J. Zimmer said in welcoming remarks. Cont’d on page 8
ment which tends to weaken the state, the government and I don't see any end there at the moment," he said. Besides, the Rudolphs seem to be apprehensive about the influence of caste factor on Indian politics. "In the beginning it was held that caste would help people in the democracy as it would engage people in collective action. While caste helped democracy work in the beginning but over
time caste has become self guarding selfish and more engaging in muscle power and violence and so forth. "... now you have a problem with the fact that this is a negative force to a considerable extent," Lloyd said. Starting from 1956, Rudolphs are witness to the changing landscape as well as evolution of Indian democracy. They have interacted with many of those who are in Indian public life.-PTI
Modi as PM would enjoy diplomatic immunity: US Cont’d from page 5
In August 2011, Obama had issued a proclamation in this regard pertaining to foreign nationals involved in war crime or systematic violence systematic against civilian populations. Meanwhile, a latest Pew Survey said an overwhelming majority of Indians across political spectrum are supportive of having a new leadership in New Delhi. "More than twice as many Indians are dissatisfied as satisfied with the way things are going in the country (70 per cent vs 29 per cent), and this discontent is shared across the political spectrum," the Pew Research said after releasing the contents of its latest survey, which was conducted between December 7, 2013, and January 12, 2014. "They want new party and personal leadership at the national level," it said. Despite an economic slow-
down, 57 per cent still describe India's economic performance as at least "somewhat good". Nearly 64 per cent expect the nation's children to be better off as adults than people are today, the report said. There is pervasive, intense concern about a range of current economic troubles, it noted. Overwhelming majorities say inflation (89 per cent), joblessness (85 per cent) and inequality (82 per cent) are very big problems for the country. According to the report, only about four-in-ten Indians retain a lot of confidence in either the national government or the Lok Sabha. The US is the most popular country among Indians, and continue to see Pakistan as its biggest threat. Meanwhile, Indians are roughly divided in their attitude toward China (35 per cent favorable vs 41 per cent unfavorable). -PTI
US envoy in India Nancy Powell resigns Cont’d from page 5
Powell's detractors also faulted her for the recent diplomatic stand off between the two countries on the Devyani Khobragade affair saying she could not foresee the problem and strains it could cause to bilateral ties. The embassy statement said Powell was ending a 37-year career that included postings as US Ambassador in Uganda, Pakistan, Nepal and India as well as service in Canada, Togo, Bangladesh and
Washington where she was most recently Director General of the Foreign Secretary. She expressed her appreciation for the professionalism and dedication of the US mission to India team who had worked to expand the parameters of US-India bilateral relationship. She also thanked those who had throughout her stay in India had extended traditional Indian hospitality to her and those who had supported stronger bilateral ties. -PTI
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Prestigious award for IndianAmerican cardiologist HOUSTON: An Indian-American cardiologist has been named as one of the recipients of a prestigious award from the American College of Cardiology. Dr Sumeet Chugh, MD and associate director of Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute along with another researcher will receive the Simon Dack Award. Chugh, an expert in heart rhythm disorders such as sudden cardiac arrest and atrial fibrillation is set to receive the award for outstanding scholarship in recognition of his contributions to the organization's peer-reviewed medical journals. Chugh, the Pauline and Harold Price chair in Cardiac Electrophysiology, is an expert in radio frequency ablation procedures as well as the use of pacemakers,
defibrillators and biventricular devices to correct heart rhythm problems.
After earning his medical degree from Government Medical College in Patiala, Chugh spent the first year of his internal medicine residency at Tufts NewtonWellesley Hospital in Boston Chugh also leads the World Health Organization (WHO) panel which performs a worldwide assessment of heart rhythm disor-
ders for the Global Burden of Disease study. He has authored more than 250 articles and abstracts for professional journals and initiated the ongoing Oregon Sudden Unexpected Death Study, a comprehensive assessment of sudden cardiac arrest in a community of one million people. After earning his medical degree from Government Medical College in Patiala, Chugh spent the first year of his internal medicine residency at Tufts Newton-Wellesley Hospital in Boston and the next two years at Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis. He completed a fellowship in cardiology at the University of Minnesota and a fellowship in clinical cardiac electrophysiology at Mayo Clinic in Rochester.. -PTI
Indian-American elected for top Republican post in Iowa WASHINGTON: Indian-Ameri- 18-member governing board at the can businessman Gopal T K Republican Party headquarters in Krishna has been elected as the Des Moines. co-chair of the Krishna Republican received 11 Party in the votes and six US state of board memIowa. bers abKrishna, stained. He who is a suchas been cessful busielected seven nessman with times to the a background state central in electrical committee. engineering, This was his was elected fourth elecfor this section as coond top most chairman. Republican "I look forposition in ward to workGopal T K Krishna Iowa along ing with Rewith Danny Carroll, who was publican National Committee elected as Chairman. Chairman Reince Priebus to ad"I have been, and am a Repub- vance the Growth and Opportulican for all Republicans. nity Project, work to reach out to The first three letters of my minorities and bring new people name are G-O-P. I ran because I into our Republican Party," said don't want to wait until the pri- Krishna. mary elections to promote unity. "As long as I am Co-Chairman "I want to continue to increase of the Republican Party of Iowa, our party's voter registration ad- outreach to all minority communivantage and participation in the ties will be a priority," said forthcoming elections," Krishna Krishna, who is from the Iowa said after he was elected by the Faith & Freedom Coalition. -PTI
University of Chicago opens center in Delhi Cont’d from page 6
"The University of Chicago has a long and deep connection to India. From the work in India of Suzanne and Lloyd Rudolph, to the work in Chicago in astrophysics and cosmology by the Indian physicist Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar, University of Chicago scholars have worked in India and come from India. The opening of the Center in Delhi marks a new level of commitment to this engagement." The Center in Delhi will promote scholarship through three broad programs: business, economics, law, and policy; science, energy, medicine, and public health; and culture, society, religion, and arts. The Center will be an intellectual destination, enabling the University of Chicago to better support research and scholarship that will benefit faculty, students and society. The opening celebration began with a panel discussion moderated by Raghuram Rajan, Governor of the Reserve Bank of India and Distinguished Ser-
vice Professor of Finance on leave from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. The weekend closed with a reception in honor of UChicago faculty members Susanne Hoeber Rudolph, the William Benton Distinguished Service Professor Emerita, and Lloyd I. Rudolph, Professor Emeritus of Political Science. The Rudolph's were awarded the Padma Bhushan by the President of India, at a ceremony on March 31. Located in the vibrant cultural and commercial district of Connaught Place, the 17,000square-foot Center will provide space for seminars and conferences as well as faculty offices and study areas. It will host Indian and South Asian students and scholars, serve as a base for UChicago students and faculty working in India and throughout the region, and engage alumni and parents in India and South Asia. The Center in Delhi is a wholly owned foreign enterprise operating under the name of UChicago Center in India Private Limited. The Center in Delhi will not grant degrees.
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Court rejects lawsuit against Ro Khanna NEW YORK: Sacramento County Superior Court judge Allen Sumner has cancelled a lawsuit against Indian-American Democratic challenger Ro Khanna even as it disqualified an IndianAmerican Republican candidate Vinesh Singh Rathore after he found irregularities in his nominating petition. "There was never evidence to support the ridiculous claim and it was dismissed yesterday by the judge who examined it," Khanna campaign manager Leah Cowan said. "It's obvious that the defenders of the status quo feel threatened by the momentum behind Ro's change campaign and now they've resorted to old-style political attacks and dirty tricks," he said. Khanna has been in the race for about a year, but Republican Vanila Singh entered the fight at the start of this year and Rathore and Joel Vanlandingham this month. Jeffrey Wald of Fremont, an Alameda County Republican Central Committee member, had sued the voter registrars in Alameda and Santa Clara counties as well as the Secretary of State's Office,
arguing that Rathore and Vanlandingham should be kicked off the ballot. "Khanna recruited candidates to enter the race as Republicans to split the Republican vote three
The race in the 17th congressional district has attracted much attention as Khanna, a former Obama administration official who lives in Fremont, challenges seventerm incumbent Mike Honda ways, effectively diluting votes that would otherwise be cast in favor of (Vanila) Singh," the suit claimed. The race in the 17th congressional district has attracted much attention as Khanna, a former Obama administration official who lives in Fremont, challenges seven-term incumbent Mike
Honda to represent the first majority Asian-American district in the continental 48 states - and the heart of Silicon Valley.
Same handwriting
The court found that several signatures on Rathore's petition were in the same handwriting. Without those signatures, Rathore did not meet the 40-signature minimum and thus cannot appear on the ballot, reported San Jose Mercury News. Rathore, 35, a Google product attorney, however, insisted that all those who signed his nomination papers were legitimate voters. "Judge Sumner ruled to remove me from the ballot because there were instances where a husband filled out his wife's name and address on the nomination papers (though both signed on their own behalf)," he said in an e-mail to San Jose Mercury News. "I would have gladly produced signed affidavits from my signatories supporting my candidacy, but I was literally given a few hours notice to respond to the complaint. So much for due process," the e-mail stated.-PTI
It's been an eventful year: Bharara on prosecutions NEW YORK: America's Indiaborn top prosecutor Preet Bharara has said it has been an "eventful" year for him so far, citing recent successful prosecutions including that of former Goldman Sachs director Rajat Gupta and Osama bin Laden's son-in-law. Bharara said a prosecutor's "bread and butter" and "main mission" is to prosecute individuals who have committed crimes. No individual or institution should presume they have immunity from prosecution because of their influence or size, he said while addressing a compliance and legal society annual seminar in Florida. "Without a doubt, it has been an eventful year. Out of my office alone, we have seen...more insider trading convictions at trial, including that of Mathew Martoma; a jury verdict against Bank of America for reckless mortgage lending practices...the indictment and subsequent guilty plea of SAC Capital for engaging in insider trading on a scale without any known precedent. "In just the last 12 days alone, we...saw the affirmance of Rajat Gupta's insider trading convic-
tion. We also, by the way, convicted Osama bin Laden's son-inlaw of terrorism charges but that is perhaps a topic for a different conference," Bharara said at the seminar organized by the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA). Gupta, who had served as the head of consultancy giant McKinsey, lost his bid to throw out his conviction after an appeals court upheld the trial court's order that he should be imprisoned for two years for insider trading. Martoma, another Indian-origin portfolio manager, was the 79th person convicted on charges of insider trading brought by Bharara's office after a federal jury found him guilty in February for his role in the most lucrative insider trading scheme n US history involving USD 275 million. "That is the bread and butter of what prosecutors do; that is what we do every day we come to work. And it is our main mission," he said adding that "when appropriate" it is also essential to hold erring institutions and not just individuals "accountable for misconduct." -PTI
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Missing Indian student's father alleges foul play HOUSTON: The father of a 21-year-old Indian-American student who mysteriously went missing on a spring break college trip in Florida state has alleged that his son's friends are hiding information about his disappearance. "I felt there was some kind of foul play that happened here," Jose George said. George, Reny Jose's father, wants the other spring break vacationers who went with his son to tell him more about what lead to Reny's disappearance. He says he believes they haven't told investigators all of the information they know. "I want to get an answer from the kids.
The same as my wife and my daughter, they all want an answer," he said. Reny was one of about 20 Rice University students who rented a beach house on Panama City beach on March 1. Four days into the trip, his friends reported him missing. Reny's clothes were found in a trash can nearby, but he was nowhere to be found. His father flew in from New York to speak at a prayer vigil in a suburb of Missouri City. About 200 members of Houston's Indian community met with local law enforcement last evening. The community gathered to discuss
ways to work with local law enforcement to prevent crime and keep families safe. There have been six different college students from Indian families who have disappeared across the country in recent weeks, Rev Roy Thomas of Mar Thoma Church said. He said he doesn't think the cases are linked and doesn't know if race played a part, but said many in the Indian community are frightened. "This is the first time it is happening in such a rapid fashion, within the Indian Malayali community. So it's eye opening for us to understand why things like this are happening," Thomas said.-PTI
US looking forward to working with new govt WASHINGTON: The US is looking forward to working with the new Indian government after the elections, a State Department official has said, reiterating that IndoUS relationship is stronger and would continue to strengthen. "I think it remains to be seen what the outcome of the election will be, so let's not try and do too much predicting in here. Secondly, we have a very very close relationship with India on a whole host of issues, whether it's energy, the economy, environmental issues, security issues - a whole host of issues," State Department Deputy Spokesperson Marie Harf told reporters. "That has not changed. We look forward to growing that even stronger. We will work with whoever the people of India decide should lead their country. We believe it's a critical partnership and we're moving forward with it," she said at her daily news conference. -PTI
India teen shows how to save millions by changing font NEW YORK: A 14-year-old Indian-origin boy has come up with a unique plan that could help the US save nearly USD 400 million a year by merely changing the font used on official documents. Suvir Mirchandani, a student in a Pittsburgh-area middle school, claimed that if the federal government used the Garamond font exclusively it could save about USD 136 million per year, nearly 30 per cent less than the estimated USD 467 million it spends annually on ink. An additional USD 234 million could be saved annually if state governments also implemented the change. Mirchandani said the idea came to him when he was trying to think of ways to cut waste and save money as part of a science fair project at his school, CNN reported. The youngster noticed that he was getting a lot more handouts than he did in elementary school and decided to figure out if he could minimize use of paper and ink. While recycling paper was one way to save money and conserve resources, Mirchandani said little attention had been paid to the ink used on the papers. "Ink is two times more expensive than French perfume by volume," he said, adding that he then decided to focus his project on finding ways to cut down the cost of ink. As part of his experiment, he collected random samples of teachers' handouts and focused on the most commonly used characters such as e, t, a, o and r. He noted how often each character was used in different fonts like Garamond, Times New Roman, Century Gothic and Comic Sans and then measured how much ink was used for each letter, using an ink coverage software.-PTI
Horoscope
April 4, 2014
India Post
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Your Weekly Future by Pandit Parashar
APRIL 4 TH - APRIL 10 TH , 2014 (March 21 to April 20)
P
eople looking for a change will be called for another interview but no promises yet. Expenses towards a child will keep esca lating. Plans and project you have been working on, could make you famous in professional circle. There is no harm in seeking outside help and right advise to resolve a tricky situation this week.
W
(September 23 to October 22)
E
very one will give different opinion and may even discourage you but it will be in your best interest to stick to your original plan. Some of you may also gather paper work and start the loan process. Expect many bills at the same time in mail this week. You may have to entertain few visitors at your place this week.
(October 23 to November 22)
(April 21 to May 20)
atch out where you eat this week as there are good chance of stomach flu. Money wise it look likes to be another favor able week and especially for brokers. And this is the right time to approach people in power to resolve a pending issue. You may also visit a holy place with family and make commitment to a charity.
Y
ou will make some good choices at work and it will not go unnoticed in superiors eyes. It's the legal paper work you should be extremely careful about. Mind will be full of bright ideas and you will not wait another second to start working on them. For those looking for an expansion in the family, its just around the corner.
(November 23 to December 22)
(May 21 to June 20)
A
void unnecessary argument at home and outside this week. It's time that you start to keep an eye on new associate. Change of diet and cutting down on caffeine will cause improvement in health. You may also approach a government agency and have at least penalty waived. A child may start applying away from home this time.
Y
ou may travel to a nice place with family this weekend. Colleague may try to drag you in an unnecessary argument. Spouse will be working on a new diet plan and may also loose few pounds in the process. After paying off couple of bills in full, you will still have enough left. An old friend living far off will reconnect.
(June 21 to July 22)
O
ffer will be tempting and can wipe out your previous losses but the decision you have to make will be in between quick gains with compromise with the principals or stick to them. Take a chance with a dollar and buy lottery ticket this week. Value of stock recently purchased may shot up, will be better to dispose them off now.
(December 22 to January 19)
P
resence of Venus in finances is favorable. You will have several opportunities to make extra and easy money this week. You may finally locate the document that can help you win an appeal or legal battle. Maintain a firm stand and the situation will quickly come under controls in career. Get together will be relaxing.
(July 23 to August 22)
A
pplication will be accepted and the funds will become available on time. You will meet an interesting personality during the course of a business trip or meeting. Success will bring happiness and suddenly you will start to have very positive feelings. Excellent piece of advise coming from a learned and matured person.
(January 20 to February 18)
B
usiness will pick up all of sudden. New deal will benefit you for long time. You may buy some fine and very artistic item for your home. You may be spending more money on a child this week. People around will notice change in your personality. You will be slowly working on a future vacation plan. Try playing few lottery.
(August 23 to September 22)
I
f you are not careful, finances could take a nose dive. Chances are that you will go for the bait and end up investing in a high risk propo sition. Boss may call and assign more task with the pressure of deadline. You may make some plans with colleagues from work. Visit to a holy place will family will give peace of mind.
PANDIT PARASHAR, CEO & COO Astro Scan USA is also available for individual consultations. He can be reached at: parashar@parashar.com
(February 19 to March 20)
S
ome cracks could start showing up in a recent relationship or business partnership. Money will come and disappear very fast this week. You may do some serious cleaning in and around your property. Contract will be small and temporary but helpful bring in much needed cash. favorable outcome in ongoing legal matters possible.
510-886-4370 www.parashar.com
Tech News Core sector grows at fastest pace since Sept NEW DELHI: Showing some signs of recovery, the output of eight core sectors grew 4.5 per cent in February, the fastest pace in five months, on improved production of electricity, coal and crude oil. The Index of Eight Core Industries had expanded 1.6 per cent in January and 1.3 per cent in February 2013. The eight core industries - fertilizers, cement, steel, electricity, crude oil, coal, petroleum refinery products and natural gas - have a combined weight of about 38 per cent in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP). Core sector growth was the fastest since an 8 per cent expansion in September and could have a positive impact on IIP numbers for February, which are expected on April 12. However, for the April-February period of this financial year, core sector growth slowed to 2.6 per cent compared with 6.4 per cent in the same period of 2012-13. Electricity generation surged 10.4 per cent in February compared with a decline of 3.7 per cent a year earlier. -PTI
British Airways bullish on Indian market HYDERABAD: British Airways has said India has become the second largest market for the airliner and witnessed 10 per cent growth in terms of seats last year, a senior official of British Airways said. "India is one of the fastest growing markets for British Airways. It is only second to North America. We would like to improve our share as we expand. We grow around 10 per cent in terms of seats in this market. This is one of the biggest growth areas in our global net work," Christopher Fordyce, Regional Commercial Manager, South Asia told reporters here. Replying to query he said British Airways has recently increased the number of flights to 48 per week operating daily flights to Hyderabad and Bangalore apart from two flights a day to Mumbai and Delhi and six flights to Chennai. Fordyce said the first Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft from London was adorned with a plaque commemorating and honoring megastar Amitabh Bachchan. The new aircraft forms the centerpiece of the airline's 5 billion pounds investment program it announced earlier. -PTI
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SC appoints international arbitrator on KG basin NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court has decided to appoint an international arbitrator as the Chairman for adjudication of dispute between Reliance Industries Ltd and the government over recovery of cost for developing the country's key natural gas field in KG basin. The apex court named James Spigelman, former Chief Justice and Lieutenant Governor of New South Wales, Australia as the third Arbitrator who shall act as the Chairman of the Arbitral Tribunal whose two other members are former Chief Justices of India - S P Bharucha and V N Khare.-PTI
Global warming is adding up our risks, UN report says YOKOHAMA: If the world doesn't cut pollution of heat-trapping gases, the already noticeable harms of global warming could spiral "out of control," the head of a United Nations scientific panel has warned. And he's not alone. The Obama White House says it is taking this new report as a call for action, with Secretary of State John Kerry saying "the costs of inaction are catastrophic." Rajendra Pachauri, chairman of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change that issued the 32volume, 2,610-page report here, told The Associated Press: "It is a call for action." Without reductions in emissions, he said, impacts from warming "could get out of control." One of the study's authors, Maarten van Aalst, a top official at the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, said, "If we don't reduce greenhouse gases soon, risks will get out of hand. And the risks have already risen." Twenty-first century disasters such as killer heat waves in Europe, wildfires in the United States,
droughts in Australia and deadly flooding in Mozambique, Thailand and Pakistan highlight how vulnerable humanity is to extreme weather, according to the report from the Nobel Prize-winning group of scientists. The dangers are going to worsen as the climate changes
even more, the report's authors said. "We're now in an era where climate change isn't some kind of future hypothetical," said the overall lead author of the report, Chris Field of the Carnegie Institution for Science in California. "We live in an area where impacts from cli-
Syrian refugees cross into Iraq at the Peshkhabour border point in Dahuk, 260 miles (430 kilometers) northwest of Baghdad, Iraq. In an authoritative report, a United Nations climate panel for the first time is connecting hotter global temperatures to hotter global tempers.
mate change are already widespread and consequential." Nobody is immune, Pachauri and other scientists said. "We're all sitting ducks," Princeton University professor Michael Oppenheimer, one of the main authors of the report, said in an interview. After several days of late-night wrangling, more than 100 governments unanimously approved the scientist-written 49-page summary which is aimed at world political leaders. The summary mentions the word "risk" about 5 1/2 times per page. "Changes are occurring rapidly and they are sort of building up that risk," Field said. These risks are both big and small, according to the report. They are now and in the future. They hit farmers and big cities. Some places will have too much water, some not enough, including drinking water. Other risks mentioned in the report involve the price and availability of food, and to a lesser and more qualified extent some diseases, financial costs and even world peace. -AP
India poses barriers to American trade: USTR WASHINGTON: Indian policies pose barriers to American trade and the US will keep pressing India to remove obstacles to smoothen business relation, says a USTR report. Noting that it is holding talks with India both at bilateral and the World Trade Organization level, the 2014 report of the UN Trade Representative (USTR) on "Technical Barriers to Trade" listed out some of the issues obstructing trade relations. Indian policies on wholesale foods labeling, security regulations on telecom equipment, safety testing requirements for electronics and IT equipment and proposed amendment to the
hazardous waste act as trade barriers, the report said. "The United States will continue to press India to resolve these issues in 2014," the USTR said in its annual report.
fied to the WTO, sets out conditions for the import and movement of used and refurbished electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). "The United States fully supports the protection of the envi-
Indian policies on wholesale foods labeling, security regulations on telecom equipment, safety testing requirements for electronics and IT equipment and proposed amendment to the hazardous waste act as trade barriers, the report said. According to the report, the proposed Fifth Amendment to the Hazardous Waste Act, published in November 2013, but not noti-
ronment and health against adverse impacts of wastes. "US industry has expressed concerns that, under the proposed
Fifth Amendment, hazardous waste controls on imports of used EEE for direct reuse and imports of refurbished EEE pursuant to a service warranty, and other similar controls on EEE, would impose unnecessary burdens on trade that facilitates reuse and extension of life of EEE to the benefit of the environment," it said. US electronics and IT goods manufacturers have raised concerns about the Indian Department of Electronics and Information Technology's (DEITY) September 2012 order that mandates compulsory registration for 15 categories of imported electronic and IT goods, it said. -PTI
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Indian companies gaining momentum in Asia India Post News Service
NEW DELHI: More than half of local companies operating in the highly competitive Asia region are experiencing growth - and have achieved financial success over the last three years. According to a new Telstra Global survey, 63 per cent of Indian companies have successfully achieved both their financial and strategic objectives during that time. The outlook for the future is also strong with 50 per cent of Indian companies expecting to exceed their business targets in the next three years. This comes as a fifth of businesses in the region were very successful in achieving business targets over the last three years. Telstra Global Managing Director, Mr Martijn Blanken said, "Multinationals from around the world are meeting and exceeding their strategic and financial objectives in Asia. As a company with a long track record of operating successfully throughout Asia, we launched Connecting Countries research to quantify the business sentiments of multinationals operating in the region, and to ascertain the attributes and success factors for companies that are excelling in the region."
The first in an annual series, Connecting Countries research is commissioned to benchmark the mind-set and strategies of high performing international companies in Asia. "While the outlook is positive, Indian companies identified two clear pain-points that are proving extremely challenging," added Mr
Telstra Global Managing Director, Mr Martijn Blanken
Blanken. "Indian companies say that more than other companies the expectation of financial return too quickly from a local market is extremely challenging, as is finding good local talent." The research identifies a supe-
rior category of top performing companies in Asia, termed Asia Business Champions in the report, and categorised as such based on having far exceeded their financial and strategic objectives in the last three years, and their expectation to succeed again in the coming three years. Asia Business Champions comprise top 5 per cent of overall companies in Asia. "On a global level, the ICT industry is a standout in Asia, with more than 70 per cent of these companies having been very successful in Asia in the past three years, compared to 61 per cent of companies across other sectors," said Mr Blanken. "Over the next three years both financial services and insurance companies and those in the ICT sector are most bullish about exceeding their objectives in Asia, with 55 and 51 per cent respectively, compared to 42 per cent across the board." "Besides the promising market conditions, successful companies in Asia have the necessary foundations - strong leadership and communication across global headquarters and local offices, combined with a long term view and investment strategy," concluded Mr Blanken.
Switzerland not cooperating on black money: PC NEW DELHI: Accusing Switzerland of not following G-20 resolution on sharing banking details, Finance Minister P Chidambaram has said if they can give informa-
Finance Minister P Chidambaram
tion to the US-based on stolen data, then why not to India. Asserting that he has done everything possible to get information on the alleged black money
stashed by Indians in Swiss banks, Chidambaram said the authorities there are taking refuge under the excuse that requests based on stolen data cannot be shared. "I have pressed so hard that the Swiss Finance Minister is deeply embarrassed even to meet me in international forum because I have told her that it is a very serious issue in India and she must share information with us," Chidambaram told a press conference here. "They take refuge under one excuse. What excuse it is? That (information sought is based) stolen data. I said what is stolen data? I did not steal any data. This is data which was there with the French government. "Well we can't share stolen data unless our Parliament passes a law. then I asked her how did you share information with the US? The US had greater clout than India, you
share information with the US, you won't share with us?," he said. Chidambaram said that India would raise this issue at every forum, including the meetings of G20 leaders that is going to happen on the sidelines of World Bank IMF annual meet next month in Washington. "... On every forum we will raise the issue that Switzerland is noncompliant with the G-20 resolution that the era of bank secrecy is over," he noted. On March 13, Chidambaram had written to his Swiss counterpart Eveline Widmer Schlumpf raising concerns about the alpine nation not sharing information on alleged unaccounted money stashed by Indian citizens in banks there. "I have done more than anyone else to push press the other government's to share information. Mr Mukherjee (his predecessor) did his best," Chidambaram said. -PTI
Chidambaram will be remembered as a 'spoiler' NEW DELHI: Senior BJP leader Yashwant Sinha has accused Finance Minister P Chidambaram of "running the economy to the ground" and said he will be remembered as a "spoiler" even as an 18-point questionnaire was posed to him on price rise, economic growth and job fronts. Sinha, who was Finance Minister during NDA rule, claimed that the high economic growth rate witnessed in the first four years of UPA-I (2004-2007) was largely on account of measures initiated by the NDA government and not because of any steps taken by UPA governments. "The fact of the matter is Sri Chidambaram that you will be remembered by history as a spoiler, as someone who specializes in sub 5 percent growth rate, for your hubris and for your baseless tall claims which you do not tire of
making even today. Your words and statements have lost all credibility," Sinha told reporters here. "You really harvested what was sown by us," he said.
BJP leader Yashwant Sinha
"Is it fact that after 10 years of misrule by the UPA government economic growth rate has once again slowed down drastically...the GDP growth rate for seven consecutive quarters has been below 5 per cent?" he asked.-PTI
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Japan to give Rs15K cr ODA for Delhi Metro NEW DELHI: Japan has announced a Rs 15,000-crore official development assistance loan for five projects in India including expansion of Delhi metro and works related to wind and solar energy. The move reaffirms the two nation's commitment to bring the strategic global partnership to a higher degree of cooperation and to India's sustainable development, a Japanese Embassy statement said. "Government of Japan and government of India signed the official development assistance (ODA) loan agreement for five projects totaling more than Rs 15,000 crore. This is the largest amount ever signed at a single signing occasion in the history of Japanese ODA," it said. The loan agreement will include three energy sector projects - New and Renewable energy, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Energy Saving, and Haryana Distribution System Upgradation. The development comes after Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh met during a summit meeting in January this year. The ODA loan agreement was
signed by Takeshi Yagi, Ambassador of Japan to India, and Rajesh Khullar, Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs in Finance ministry. Elaborating on the projects, the statement said that the ODA loan
six intervals which connect Indira Gandhi International Airport and Noida district and construction of heritage line connecting Central Secretariat, Delhi Gate, Lal Qila and Kashmir Gate. "The completion of the project
1,800 crore loan has been granted to power producers through Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA) for the development solar and wind power succeeding Phase I of the project.
has provided approximately Rs 8,933 crore to Delhi Mass Rapid Transport System Project (Phase 3) in order to enhance its transportation capacity. This project intends to link the existing 190 km radially developed network with additional 116 km belt line including six routes and
will extend the length of network to 329.4 km and will transform Delhi Metro into a global standard urban transportation system, comparable to the Tokyo metro," the statement said. The statement said that for New and Renewable Energy Development Project - Phase 2, Rs
The ongoing project includes a loan of Rs 1,160 crore for wind power projects in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat and Karnataka and Rs 220 crore for solar power project in
Chopper deal: Agusta Westland withdraws plea in HC NEW DELHI: Italian firm Agusta Westland has withdrawn its lawsuit from the Delhi High Court filed against India's decision to encash over Rs 250 crore in bank guarantee following the scrapping of the Rs 3600-crore VVIP helicopter deal over bribery allegations. "The civil suit is dismissed as withdrawn," Justice A K Pathak
said after the counsel for the offshore firm sought permission to withdraw the case against parties including the Defense Ministry and State Bank of India. The court, which on January 6
had issued notices to the Ministry and others, had denied any interim relief to the firm against the encashment of bank guarantee. "It is contended that the encashment of bank guarantee be stayed till next date. In this case bank guarantee is unconditional and irrevocable one and has been invoked by the beneficiary.
"In my view, plaintiff has failed to make out a prima facie case for grant of ex-parte ad interim injunction in its favor. I am also of the opinion that plaintiff shall not suffer any irreparable loss or injury
nor do I find any balance of convenience in its favor. Accordingly, prayer of the plaintiff for grant of ex-parte ad interim injunction till the next date of hearing, as prayed for, is declined," it had said. India has encashed over Rs 250 crore, deposited by AgustaWestland in the form of a guarantee, in State Bank of India here following the scrapping of Rs 3600 crore helicopter deal because of bribery charges. AgustaWestland has deposited over 270 million Euros (over Rs 2200 crore) as guarantees in banks in India and Italy. India scrapped the deal on January one after finding that there was breach of pre-contract integrity pact by the company for supplying the choppers to Air Force as there were allegations of payment of kickbacks to the tune of Rs 360 crore. The deal was for supply of 12 AW-101 helicopters out of which three had already been delivered before the contract was frozen over allegations of kickbacks that surfaced in February last year. -PTI
Andhra Pradesh. "India, ranked fifth among the wind power introducing countries in the world as of end of 2012, shows its willingness to further increase renewable energy including solar power as illustrated in 'Twelfth Five Year Plan (20122017)'. This project reaffirms our commitment to sustainable development of India," the Embassy statement said. The ODA loan to the tune of Rs 1,800 crore has also been given to 2,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in India through Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) for Indian SMEs investment in energy conservative equipment. "This loan aims to help improve the efficiency and eliminate energy shortage in India," the statement said. The statement said that Rs 977 crore has been given to the Agra Water Supply Improvement Project which started since 2007 in order to correspond to the project cost increase coming from material price hike. -PTI
India's potential growth rate below 6%: RBI MUMBAI: With growth trending below the 5 per cent mark for three successive quarters, the Reserve Bank of India has pegged economic expansion at less than 6 per cent from the earlier expectation of over 8 per cent. "The wide range of estimates using alternative techniques, on balance, suggests that currently the potential growth may be even somewhat lower than 6 per cent," RBI said in its Macroeconomic and Monetary Developments Report. It said a decline in financial savings, sluggish growth in capital formation over successive quarters, persistently high inflation and low business confidence are the major reasons for the revised estimate. However, it said a modest recovery is likely to take shape in 2014-15. The document said potential growth, which hovered at 8-8.5 per cent levels in the period from the second quarter of 2005-06 to the second quarter of 2008-09, has gone down to 6 per cent. RBI Governor Raghuram
Rajan's predecessor D Subbarao had once suggested that the potential growth of the economy was 7.3 per cent. A survey of potential forecasters done by the RBI revised growth for FY15 to 5.5 per cent from the earlier estimate of 5.6 per cent.
On inflation, one of the key factors that forced the RBI to keep a tight monetary policy, which in turn affected growth, the document said that the disinflationary path is moving as expected but stressed on the need to be vigilant. Warning of upside risks to inflation in FY15, it said the recent declines in CPI inflation were primarily driven by lower food prices, the benefit of which would wear out with seasonal changes. -PTI
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Desi News Ami Bera joins in fun & frolic of Ekal Foundation Holi India Post News Service
SACRAMENTO, CA: Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA, Sacramento Chapter, once again, keeping its tradition of bringing the Indo-American communities together, celebrated the event of Holi this year on March 22 at Elder Creek Temple, Sacramento. Chapter President Mrs Ranju Verma welcomed the gathering of youth, children and senior citizens, narrating the significance of this festival of colors - Holi which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. The transition to Spring brings with it, for a large number of us, the longing for our mother's homemade sweets, shenanigans with watercolor playing with our siblings, as well as many other traditions of Holi. Details on page 24
Chicagoans pay tribute to Khushwant Singh HARISH RAO
CHICAGO: Prominent Chicagoans from all walks of life gathered at the Palatine Public Library on March 30 to pay tribute to the acclaimed writer, columnist and public figure in India, Khushwant Singh, who passed away on March 20 at the age of 99 in Delhi. A moment of silence was observed. Thakar S Basati, a prominent community activist, emceed the event. Professor S. Jagindar Singh Ramdev, President Punjabi Sabha, Chicago and Bibi Jasbir Kaur Saluja presided over the function. Details on page 21
Women's meet emphasizes 'Lead from Within'
COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA www.indiapost.com
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SIFA celebrates 35 years of service to Bay Area Details on page 24
April 4, 2014
Kaifash thanks Indian-Americans for victory in Republican primary SURENDRA ULLAL
SCHAUMBURG: After a resounding decision in the 8th Congressional District Republican Primary on March 18, Republican Nominee Larry Kaifesh took an opportunity to thank IndianAmericans for their contribution and support, and also urged for still larger support for the crucial November election. "I would like to thank our friends in the Indian-American Community for their support and I look forward to working with them moving forward," said Kaifesh. "As I have said before, in the 8th Congressional District, IndianAmericans are an integral part of the fabric of our communities and we need to work together to improve the economic outlook for our communities." On March 25, Larry Kaifesh won a resounding victory, defeating his opponent, 72%-28%, after an intense campaign. "I would particularly like to thank Nimesh Jani and other members of the Indian American Republican Organization," added Kaifesh. "Their support was crucial to the success of our campaign and will continue to be an
asset." In the crucial November election, he is facing Democratic in-
Corps Reserve. He was deputed to Afghanistan and Iraq and has creditable military record for his
Larry Kaifash and Nimesh Jani
cumbent Tammy Duckworth. She is an Iraq war veteran and had a lot of emotional appeal in the last elections. Larry Kaifesh is a Colonel in the United States Marine
services. Besides, he has enviable educational background holding a B.A. in Psychology from Indiana University and a M.A. in National
Security and Strategic Studies from the United States Naval War College. His military awards include the Bronze Star, Navy Commendation Medal with "V" for Valor in combat, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, and Navy Achievement Medal. Larry Kaifesh grew up and currently resides in Carpentersville, where he attends St. Monica's Catholic Church. A group of Indian American supporters led by Nimesh Jani, Nimesh Bhatt and others, are emboldened at the huge March victory of their candidate and are exuding optimism that Larry Kaifesh would emerge victorious in the November elections. Nimesh Jani, an elected Schaumburg council official, said that Larry is very open to the minority community and is quite aware of the problems they face in their adopted land. In a talk to this paper, Larry Kaifash said that India and USA share common ideals of democracy and open society. He admired Indian record for free press and independent court system.
Terry elected first Indian origin woman Lion Guv RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service
India Post News Service
CHINO HILLS, CA: What is leadership? Society ascribes leadership in politics, religion, communities, sports, etc. based on actions, achievement, and at times, popularity. Typically, we limit our view of "leaders" to people in position of power: CEOs, politicians, athletes, and perhaps community leaders. There are leaders who have a strong work ethic and who win and accomplish major tasks; but are they life's leaders? Are their characters worth emulating? True leadership is rooted in a person's character, in their actions, and in the examples they set. Details on page 25
CHICAGO: District 1A - Mother District of Lionism held their Annual District Convention at the Westin Hotel, Northwest, Chicago on March 28, 29 and 30 with great colors. Over 500 Lions, Lionesses, Leos and guests were in attendance. The convention elected Terry D'Souza as Governor for District 1A. This is the second time in the history of 98 years of Lionism in District 1A that a woman was elected as district governor and the first time in the history of Lionism in the US that a woman governor of Indian origin got elected to this post. Cont’d on page 20
Larry Dicus receiving US President's Voluntary Service Award from Dr. Austin Prabhu
Terry D'Souza being greeted on being elected
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April 4, 2014
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BAPS women's conference meets with big success SUSHMA PATEL
CHICAGO: To recognize the leaders we know and admire in society around us, to acknowledge the leaders amongst us, and to enrich the leaders within us, BAPS hosted a Women's Conference themed "Lead from Within" at 10 centers across North America at the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (BAPS) in Bartlett, a northwest Chicago suburb, on March 22. This annual event, the seventh in a row, was participated by over 450 women from across the country. The conference is inspired by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the fifth spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, in an effort to highlight the empowering role of women in today's society and also to ensure their spiritual growth as it will help them sail smoothly through life's vagaries. In the opening presentation, Mrs. Ilupi Patel (MBA in Finance, University of Houston), examined who we may consider to be leaders and why. She put a question to the audience, whether we are not leaders when we take charge of a task or project at work, in educating our children, when we care for aging parents, when we make everyday decisions impacting our careers, homes, and families? In truth, everyone is a leader in her own way, as she takes charge of her life and remains unwavering
Group of women participants at the BAPS Women Conference in Chicago
would make everyone a good leader. Ms. Sonal Pakvasa, an IT program manager, emphasized the need to understand one's self, one's belief system, one's values, and one's spirituality. Her talk focused on the need for a connection with one's conscience as it plays an important role in day-today actions. She mentioned observing that "when we have a firm understanding of who we are, the values we hold in esteem, the beliefs that guide our choices, we have a solid spiritual foundation. A spiritual foundation is essential in leadership as it speaks to our qualities, to our character." The conference aimed at portraying real life
Chief Guest Andrea Sreshta and Rinku Patel
in the vision for herself and the family. But question is still needs to be addressed: what makes a good leader? How can we grow as leaders? The conference proceeded to discuss leadership essentials that
accounts of people who have not only cultivated, but also strengthened, their leadership qualities with spirituality. In delivering the closing presentation of the conference, Mrs. Kailas Sanghani, an accounting/
finance professional, shared fundamental qualities exemplified by leaders she emulates. She spoke of her ultimate role model, her guru Pramukh Swami Maharaj; conveying touching examples from his life
that the choices they make everyday make them true leaders. Some of the interesting observations and conversations centered on topics like - What is leadership. Society ascribes leadership in
Speakers Ilupi Patel and Ushma Patel
exemplifying sacrifice, humility, stillness, and courage. In closing, she emphasized how his examples provide courage and stability in life's challenging situations, guide her in everyday interactions and choices, and how that enables her to be an effective, poised leader in all her roles. The Chief Guest, Ms. Andrea Sreshta, CEO & Co-Founder of LuminAID, conveyed the message to "Lead from Within" through her various educational and business endeavors. Sharing her thoughts on leadership, she said, "Realizing the opportunities that you have and not taking them for granted because they aren't a guarantee to so many other people in the world is a lesson in leadership that I've learned so far through different situations in our business." She also mentioned that part of leadership is admitting when you don't know something and that it's important to ask the questions as to why because that's when we come up with the best ideas about how to solve those issues. The audience took inspiration from the conference and realized how they faced similar challenges in their lives. They understood
politics, religion, communities, sports, etc. based on actions, achievement, and at times, popularity. Typically, we limit our view of "leaders" to people in position of power: CEOs, politicians, athletes, and perhaps community leaders. There are leaders who have a strong work ethic and who
What about people who give their best everyday to care for their communities, schools, and homes? Are they not leaders as well? In fact, do we recognize ourselves as leaders? Should we? After the conference, attendees also enjoyed the opportunity to network and share their perspective on the talks of the day. Members of the audience took notice of their own belief system and gained confidence in their ability to lead in their pursuits. Others recognized their strengths, contributions, and recognized themselves as leaders, some for the very first time. BAPS is a worldwide sociospiritual organization in Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. It is dedicated to community service, peace and harmony. Motivated by Hindu principles and strives to care for the world by caring for societies, families and individuals. Through a number of social and spiritual activities. Its 9,000 international centers, including
A section of the audience
win and accomplish major tasks; but are they life's leaders? Are their characters worth emulating? True leadership is rooted in people's character, in their actions, and in the examples they set. But are those the only leaders? Everyone has the potential to be a leader in his or her own right.
more than 5,000 youth centers, support these activities of character building. Under the guidance and leadership of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to build a community that is morally, ethically and spiritually pure, and free of addictions.
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West meets East in Jung's psychology ALFRED COLLINS, PHD
CHICAGO: The C.G. Jung Institute of Chicago sponsored a daylong symposium "West Meets East in Jung's Psychology: A Dialogue" on March 22 at Loyola University's downtown campus. This dialogue reflected the memory of Arwind Vasavada, D.Litt., who practiced as a Jungian analyst in Chicago from 1970 to 1998. Featured speaker, Murray Stein, PhD, delivered the opening address on "Jungian Psychology in Translation." He spoke with much affection about his relationship with Vasavada, which in some ways paralleled that of Carl Jung with the China scholar Richard Wilhelm. Emphasizing the ego-
self relationship that Jung took from India, Dr. Stein related the spread of Jungian psychology into China, Japan, and India and
Jungian analyst Elaine Molchanov, LCSW, ACSW, a forty-year practitioner of Siddha Yoga, spoke on "Snakes and Ladders: The Play of Consciousness in the Sand." what it might mean for the ability of these cultures to hold on to and develop their own great tra-
ditions. Dr. Vasavada, Ph.D. from Banaras Hindu University finished a diploma thesis at the
Panelists (L-R) Ashok Bedi, MD, Murray Stein, PhD, Dennis Merritt, PhD, and Elaine Molchanov, MSW
Zurich Jung Institute in 1957 on the Shakta (tantric) text of the Tripura Rahasya, comparing its
Bal Vihar celebrates Holi with gusto ASHWIN PATEL & RAJ IYER
ST LOUIS: Holi is a major spring festival for Indians around the world. Bal Vihar of St. Louis celebrated the Holi festival jointly with Hindu Temple of St. Louis on March 15 at Mahatma Gandhi Center. Holi is first major outdoor event of the calendar year for community families to meet and greet each other and have some colorful fun. The event started at noon with lunch for all. Sudhir Brahmabhatt kicked off the event and introduced Juhi Nayak, a youth student at Bal Vihar who talked about historical and cultural significance of Holi. Children were very enthusiastic about playing with colors and their friends. They quickly finished their lunch and eagerly awaited distribution of colors. As soon as the first set of packets opened, the colored dust started filling the atmosphere. One could see the enthusiasm in the environment as children were running around throwing colors at their parents, friends and anyone they knew. The surrounding started filling up with green, blue, pink, yellow and purple colors. Adults could be seen applying colors to faces and greeting each other. Within half an hour, most of them were covered in multiple colors from head to toe. It is the volunteers of Bal Vihar that make the organization so great. The selfless service put in
Young and old celebrate Holi with play of colors in St Louis. Pic Sravan Photography
by the teachers, administrative staff and all other parent volunteers make Bal Vihar the organization what it is today. As Bal Vihar nears completing 22 successful years, the popularity has grown with over 350 stu-
doctrine of spiritual insight with Jung's theory of psychological maturation (individuation). Vasavada's intellectual and spiri-
culture, neighbors etc. Center for Indian Cultural Education - Bal Vihar of St. Louis is a non-profit organization. Since its inception in 1992 has been serving the Metro St. Louis Indian community. The primary focus of
tual jousts with Jung were legendary at the Institute and he continued to practice meditation and spiritual disciplines - and to prescribe them to patients - during his years as a psychoanalyst. Describing his last two-hour meeting with Jung, Vasavada wrote about the "valuable criticism and fiery ordeal which will ever remain as an insignia of my initiation by him." These themes - fire, ordeal, and initiation - emerged powerfully in all the presentations, being ignited early in the day through a film from the late sixties of Vasavada being interviewed by a young Murray Stein and Joe Pasic, MD, another Jungian analyst who was in fact present at this symposium. Psychiatrist and Jungian analyst from Milwaukee, Ashok Bedi, MD, spoke of "Jung's Encounter with the Soul of India." Dr. Bedi, who leads groups on psychospiritual tours of India, discussed the differences between Indian and Western psychologies and
Terry elected first Indian origin woman Lion Guv Cont’d from page 18
dents now attending classes every other Sunday. Classes are focused on overall development that includes Bhajan, Yoga and regular curriculum that includes teachings on India, its states, history,
this organization is to provide Indian cultural education to students age 5-18, its application and integration with the global multicultural and multifaceted society.
movingly addressed Murray Stein as his "guru," thus exemplifying his interpretation of Jungian thought through the lens of Indian ideas and India from the Jungian perspective. Jungian analyst Elaine Molchanov, LCSW, ACSW, a forty-year practitioner of Siddha Yoga, spoke on "Snakes and Ladders: The Play of Consciousness in the Sand." She used the trope of the Indian game of "Snakes and Ladders" to present her own mid-life process of "sandplay," a Jungian technique of exploring the deep personality by placing small miniature objects into a sand tray as a way to dialogue with the unconscious and higher self. Themes of fire, the world-mountain, and initiation emerged. "Dreams, the I Ching, and the Psychoanalytic Process" was the theme of Dennis Merritt, PhD, LCSW, a case-study in which the Chinese symbols of the I Ching paralleled the dream images of a modern Westerner, guiding him deeper into a process of psychological transformation. Indian and Chinese thought were important sources of the psychology of Carl Jung, the great Swiss psychologist and early collaborator of Sigmund Freud. From India, in particular, Jung took the idea of a higher self beyond the usual sense of personal identity known in psychoanalysis as the "ego." Jung's method of treatment owed much of its flavor to the Indian institution of the guru-disciple relationship, addressing the spiritual as well as the personal issues of the client.
Larry Dicus, International Director from California along with his wife Jane were the International guests for the convention. District 1A is a much diversified district in Lionism in the US filled with various ethnic clubs to name a few - Filipinos, Mexicans, Puerto Ricon, Ecuadorians, Indians, Pakistanis, Whites and Blacks. Terry D'Souza is wife of two terms District Governor of District 1A Dr. Austin Prabhu who belongs to The Forest Kala Sampath Lions Club. Dr. Austin already has set a record by being District Governor for two terms and also by being
the first Indian Origin District Governor from District 1A. Once Terry gets inducted at the 97th International Convention in Toronto, Canada, Dr. Austin & Terry will become the first governor couple from District 1A. US President's Council for Voluntary Service Awards member Dr. Austin Prabhu presented Larry Dicus with a Life Time Voluntary Service Award for his dedication to improve humanity in his communities. Ralph Zarada was elected as the First Vice District Governor and Ernie Lapid elected as the II Vice District Governor. For District 1A Lions of Illinois Foundation Trustee, Frank Kirar got elected.
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Chicagoans pay tribute to Khushwant Singh HARISH RAO
CHICAGO: Prominent Chicagoans from all walks of life gathered at the Palatine Public Library on March 30 to pay tribute to the
Khushwant Singh expressed his anger after Golden Temple attack in 1984 by returning Padma Bhusan, an award bestowed by Indian Government in 1983. Singh also was concerned about the increase in Patitpuna (cutting hair in Sikhs). His novel "Train to Pakistan" which was made into a movie won accolades from every corner of the world. He wasn't afraid of writing or supporting right causes. Nothing deterred him from speaking in favor of people who stood for truth like Bibi Jasbit Kaur, presiding over the meet and Thakar Basati Joginder Singh, Editor & Spokesman Punjabi acclaimed writer, columnist and public fig- newspaper from Chandigarh and S. Gurbax ure in India, Khushwant Singh, who passed Singh Kala Afgana who were fined by Akal T a k h a t Jathedaars. Khuswant Singh took their side. Mat Singh Dhillon, member of Punjabi Sahit Sabha, Chicago dedicated his p o e m , "Writer" to Khuswant Singh. A section of the attendees
away on March 20 at the age of 99 in Delhi. A moment of silence was observed. Thakar S Basati, a prominent community activist, emceed the event. Professor S. Jagindar Singh Ramdev, President Punjabi Sabha, Chicago and Bibi Jasbir Kaur Saluja presided over the function. Rajinderbir Singh Mago, a well-known leader of Punjabi community, spoke about the fearless writings of Khushwant Singh. He mentioned that Khushwant Singh did not care about dressing up much. One time a peon won't let him into his office because he didn't look like an editor. "Only later when other employees came in and told him who this new editor was, the peon apologized." Bibi Surjit Kaur Gill read her poem, "Sayio ni mein tur jaana." (My friends, I will be leaving). In the poem she recited how obliged she is for their friendship and how she feels leaving them behind after death. Surinderpal Singh Kalra, an office bearer of World Sikh Council, spoke about, "who should be considered a Sikh? Is it just the outlook or the work someone is doing for Sikhism."
Cont’d on page 22
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Election judges found making South Asian community meets Tammy Duckworth discriminatory comments HARISH RAO
REKHA RADHAKRISHNAN
CHICAGO: Election judges have been reported making discriminatory remarks on minority voters during the primary elections on March 18. Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Chicago (AJC) was one of the four local agencies that conducted Election Protection, nonpartisan poll watching throughout Chicago and the suburbs. In the late morning in Schaumburg Township, volunteer poll watchers reported two separate instances of election judges, while serving in the polling place, openly making disparaging comments about limited English proficient voters. These two separate incidents, one involving Democrat-appointed election judges and the other involving Republican-appointed election judges, were promptly reported shortly after noon to the Cook County Clerk's Office, with the request that these specific judges be immediately removed from the polling places. The federal Voting Rights Act prohibits discrimination against
voters, including on the basis of race, limited English proficiency, or disability. The law requires translated election materials in Spanish, Chinese and Hindi in Chicago and suburban Cook County.
"We're disappointed that the Cook County Clerk's Office refused to remove these election judges from the polling places after being notified of their comments, which were completely inappropriate� The Cook County Clerk's Office sent officials to supervise both locations but did not remove the election judges. Later that evening, volunteer poll watchers reported to AJC that one of the
election judges in question was observed treating South Asian voters rudely when struggling to identify their names in the poll book. "We're disappointed that the Cook County Clerk's Office refused to remove these election judges from the polling places after being notified of their comments, which were completely inappropriate for a polling place," said AJC Executive Director Tuyet Le. "Such comments indicate an election judge's fundamental disagreement with an essential function of their job." "Poll watchers observed similar inappropriate comments made during the 2012 Illinois primary, and the Cook County Clerk's Office agreed that such behavior will not be tolerated by election judges," said Ami Gandhi, Executive Director of the South Asian American Policy & Research Institute (SAAPRI). "When judges who make discriminatory comments are not replaced immediately, this opens the door to further infringement of voting rights."
Polls show improvement in language assistance REKHA RADHAKRISHNAN
CHICAGO: Poll monitoring during the March 18 Primary has revealed improvement in language assistance in Cook County. This is the conclusion of a poll monitoring operation covering over 85 precincts across Chicago and the surrounding suburbs run by Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Chicago (AJC) in partnership with Common Cause Illinois (CCI) and Chicago Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, Inc. (CLCCRUL). AJC focused on monitoring 56 precincts federally designated for language assistance in both Chinese and South Asian languages, to ensure that election law was properly implemented. Polling sites ranged from Schaumburg to Chinatown. Early polling reports indicated that overall, Cook County sites performed well. There were two instances of absent bilingual election judges, some technology issues at sites leading to slightly longer voting times, and two incidents of inappropriate comments from election judges. AJC legal director Andy Kang
said that the language assistance needs of limited-English speaking voters, who are entitled to certain voting rights under federal law, is important for new migrant citizens" This Election Day effort comes
AJC focused on monitoring 56 precincts federally designated for language assistance in both Chinese and South Asian languages, to ensure that election law was properly implemented on the heels of the Pan Asian Voter Empowerment (PAVE) Coalition's successful early voting campaign, which brought 512 voters to the polls on March 8 and March 15. On March 20, nearly 100 organizers and leaders in the Asian American community will go to
Springfield to advocate for issues on the Asian American State Agenda. Items include a Same Day registration initiative and a domestic workers' rights bill. Same Day Registration is a key to unlocking the power of our growing community. These combined efforts speak to the growing political will and power of one of the fastest growing communities in Illinois. At nearly 700,000 the Asian American Pacific Islander community in Illinois is a diverse population, and with a 53% increase in voter registration in the last decade, increasingly one with the power to shape elections. Among others, the PAVE Coalition includes: Alliance of Filipinos for Immigrant Rights and Empowerment, Hamdard Center for Health and Human Services, IndoAmerican Center, and Muslim Women Resource Center.
CHICAGO: South Asian community activists from Cook, DuPage and Kane counties met with Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth and her staffers on March 20 at her new campaign office in Hanover Park. Raja Krishnamoorthi led the talks on behalf of the group. He thanked the Congresswoman for her outreach towards the South
events, to meet, listen and address the issues and concerns of her constituents in the 8th Congressional District. Duckworth agreed to remain in close contact with the community leaders and her staff has already set up a follow-up meeting to discuss plans to further engage the community. She encouraged political participation of the South
Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth with South Asian supporters
Asian community. Thakar Basati thanked Congresswoman Duckworth for coming to meet and greet worshippers at the Palatine Gurudwara, Sunday, March 16. Tammy Duckworth said that she had enjoyed the warmth and hospitality. She also stated that her staff, through the Community Outreach Program, would come to places of worship and non-profit
Asian community and thanked all who had worked in her last election campaign. Nazneen Hashmi, Balbir Singh, Fouad Zubair, Syed H Zafer and others participated in the lively discussion. The meeting was productive. Community issues were discussed and the activists expressed their thanks and confidence in Duckworth's leadership.
Chicagoans pay tribute to Khushwant Singh Cont’d from page 21
Sajid Chaudhry, a well-known Punjabi writer, poet from Lehnda Punjab, Pakistan, and co-organizer of Milaap in Chicago dedicated his few Punjabi couplets in his memory. One was, "Joun gadiya fal kanak na aave, bhujia bi na jamme, (you reap what you sow.) Although some Sikhs didn't consider him a true Sikh follower, but his book on Sikhi, "History of the Sikhs" is regarded the best book about Sikh history. It is used as a reference book. It took him three years to write when he was at Aligarh University. His transla-
tion of Shri Japji Sahib is the best so far in English. Some of his books were displayed during the ceremony. At the end of the program, Thakar Basati thanked the audience and speakers and requested not to judge people. As they say, "Don't judge a book by its cover, same way we should respect people for what they stood for what they did and what difference they made in people's lives. There is no way we can pay back what all these great people like Khushwant Singh, Maharaja Ranjit Singh or Sardar Bhagat Singh did for their people."
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Impressive kick off for South Obtain contentment & happiness thru Ram Avtar Asia Bar Association ASHWIN PATEL
ST LOUIS: The South Asian Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis recently held its official kick-off event at the Saint Louis University School of Law. There was an impressive roster of government, business and civic leaders in attendance. The group was co-founded by Commissioner Sreenivasa Rao (Sreenu) Dandamudi, who is also serving
Attorney General Chris Koster
those in need." Commissioner Dandamudi notes that founding the group was a team effort. "There is a core group of over a dozen attorneys that worked to form the association," he explains. His personal experience growing up in St. Louis was also a motivating factor. "We created this organization to complement other efforts, such as
Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander and St. Louis County Executive Charlie Dooley
as its inaugural President. Currently seeking new members, every licensed attorney, retired attorney, and law student in the metropolitan St. Louis region (both sides of the Mississippi river) is eligible for membership in the South Asian Bar Association. "During our first year we will focus on building the association from the ground up," says Dandamudi. "Once we're established, our goal is to provide a legal network of opportunities for attorneys as well as assistance to
the Mosaic Project, to continue to bolster the St. Louis region." SABA kick-off event at the Saint Louis University School of Law had an impressive list of legal, business and community leaders attended, including former Missouri Supreme Court Judge and Saint Louis University Law School Dean Mike Wolff, Missouri Supreme Court Chief Justice Mary R. Russell, Missouri Supreme Court Judges Laura Denvir Stith, Zel Fischer and George W. Draper, III; Missouri House
Speaker Timothy W. Jones, Missouri Secretary of State Jason Kander, Missouri Attorney General Chris Koster, St. Louis County Executive Charlie Dooley and State Representative Jill Schupp among many others. At the group's launch, Judge George W. Draper, III, of the Missouri Supreme Court, congratulated the founders. "The first offi-
Speaker Tim Jones
cial event of the South Asian Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis clearly demonstrated the commitment of the founders and future leaders," he says. "Commissioner Sreenu Dandamudi and the other members of the organization have opened the eyes of the Missouri legal community to the presence and sophistication of the South Asian legal community. I join with the many state officials that echoed congratulations and welcome this organization wholeheartedly."
R
PANDIT ANIL JOSHI
am Navami is the birthday women, and youngsters. He of Shri Rama. It generally showed to the world that all living falls in the Shukla Paksha creatures need to be respected, on the Navami, the ninth day of cherished, and loved as precious the month of Chaitra in the Hindu lives. calendar that is in the month of He as a prince experienced all March- April of English calendar. the good and bad life situations It is also known as Chaitra Masa with a balanced mind and became Suklapaksha Navami, and marks a role model. Shri Rama's heart althe end of the nine-day Chaitra- ways overflowed with love, genNavratri celebrations. This year erosity, humility, and a sense of Shri Ram duty. Later, as Navami is goa king he proing to be celvided full libebrated on erty and freeTu e s d a y, dom to his citiApril 8. zens to exThis festipress their val lasts for feelings, probthe whole lems, and nine days of complaints to the Navratra, their leaders thus the pewithout any riod is called fear and hesi'Sri Rama tation. Navratra or Shri Rama's Va s a n t h primary mesNavaratra. It is sage is that marked by fulfill your Pandit Anil Joshi continuous duty without recitals, any selfish Akhand Paath of the Shri motives; put other people before Ramacharitamanas with devo- yourself. When he was exiled to tional songs, bhajan, kirtan and the forest, Shri Rama did not comdistribution of prasad after the plain. He did not fight back in anpuja and aarti. On the ninth day, ger. Rather, he helped his father vigrah of infant form of Sri Rama fulfill his promise given to his step Lalla is placed on Palana and mother. rocked by devotees. He lived his life according to Lord Rama stands in front of Hindu Dharma as a son and as a the whole world as an ideal king, future king. He did not even once son, brother, husband and father. think about himself, his own comHe taught us how to respect our forts, and his own rights. Cont’d on page 26 Gurus, teachers, parents, elders,
Hindu deities at New York's Metropolitan Museum
Protest over goddesses at burlesque show
tion will feature some 160 sculptures and includes rare interna-
HARISH RAO
India Post News Service
NEW YORK: The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) in New York will display various Hindu deities in its upcoming exhibition "Lost Kingdoms" from April 14 to July 27. The Museum will exhibit sculptures, some as old as early 5th century CE, of Krishna holding Mt. Govardhana from southern Cambodia, an ascetic Ganesha from central Vietnam, Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, Durga, Surya, Garuda, Rishis, Kalkin, Harihara, Aiyanar, Skanda, Devi, Vishnu Mounted on Garuda, Shiva Linga, Shiva Trident, Shiva's Footprints, Shiva's Bull, Brahman Priest, etc. This ground-breaking exhibi-
tional treasures. It also includes stellar loans from United Kingdom, France and USA. Majority of the works are in stone; with others in terracotta, bronze, stucco, gold, and silver, reports indicate. Founded in 1870, Met, one of the top art museums of the world, has large collections of ancient art, including Greek, Roman and Near Hindu deities (L to R) Lord Ganesh, Lord Vishnu, Eastern. The Met's misLord Shiva as Natraja, Goddess Parvati. Second sion includes art that row Lord Buddha and young saint Chola "collectively represents the broadest spectrum tional loans from Cambodia, Ma- of human achievement". Thomas laysia, Myanmar, Thailand and P. Campbell is Met's Director and Vietnam; many designated na- CEO.
CHICAGO: Hindus have protested the depiction of Hindu goddesses in the "House of Thee UnHoly" adult in nature burlesque show in Seattle that was open to the public from March 1216 at The Triple Door. "This was the most despicable thing that I could imagine" said Madhu Patel founder president of NRI Press club. Sohan Joshi, president of NFIA said that Hindu goddesses, the female aspect of the supreme, revered in Hinduism are meant to be worshipped in temples and home shrines and not to be paraded on the burlesque theater stages. Rajan Zed, President of Universal Society of Hinduism, noted that
Hindu goddesses were divine and creating irrelevant imaginary imagery of them was not okay as it hurt the devotees. He urged the creative-director/producer Paula Sjunneson (The Swedish Housewife) to remove the scenes involving Hindu goddesses from "House of Thee UnHoly", which is termed as "sexually-charged psychedelia" and features "Druids, Vikings, Hindu goddesses, sex, drugs, rock 'n' roll". Hindus do not mind free artistic expression and speech as much as anybody else if not more. But faith was something sacred and attempts at trivializing it hurt the followers, said Nand Kapur, former president of AIA.
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Ami Bera joins in fun & frolic of Ekal Foundation Holi
500 people assembled together and playing color along with Zumba
Volunteers receiving Certificate of Appreciation from Congressman Ami Bera, 7th District Director Faith Whitmore and Bobbie Singh Allen India Post News Service
SACRAMENTO, CA: Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA, Sacramento Chapter, once again, keeping its tradition of bringing the Indo-American communities together, celebrated the event of Holi this year on March 22 at Elder Creek Temple, Sacramento. Chapter President Mrs Ranju Verma welcomed the gathering of youth, children and senior citizens, narrating the significance of this festival of colors - Holi which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. The transition to Spring brings with it, for a large number of us, the longing for our mother's homemade sweets, shenanigans with watercolor playing with our siblings, as well as many other traditions of Holi. The function started with the playing of traditional Dhol (drum) creating an ambience of festivity. Bollywood music, powdered color in the air, colorful faces, and a whole crowd alternating between dance and Zumba energized and
charged each one of the nearly 500 participants of all age groups, including babies in strollers, gathered to enjoy this festival of Holi. The festive nature brought out the inner youth in all of its participants - all present, from children to the elderly, teenagers, parents, toddlers and babies in arms, from all sections of society. Participants wished each other happy Holi as they engaged themselves in smearing color on one another, bursting to the moves of Zumba and promoting fun. In-between the Zumba, there was a small skit organized by children to depict the historical significance of Holi. Congressman Dr Ami Bera, California 7th District Director, Faith Whitmore and Congressman Dr Ami Bera Field Representative/ Caseworker Keaton Riley and Elk Grove Unified School District Council Member Bobbie Singh Allen were invited and introduced by Dr Harsh Verma, Advisory Member to Ekal Sacramento Chapter, as guest speakers to the event. Cont’d on page 26
SIFA celebrates 35 years of service to Bay area India Post News Service
SUNNYVALE, CA: Classical music and dance certainly set the cultural context for the progress of civilization. And South India Fine Arts (SIFA) is doing a great job of serving the Indian Diaspora in the Bay area in this context. A member supported, volunteer run, not for profit organization, SIFA continues to fulfill its mission in promoting and presenting the various classical performing
art forms in various venues in the Bay area. SIFA's 35th year, in 2014, is a significant milestone year, indeed! In conjunction with this, a huge two day festival with artists from India are planned at the Sunnyvale temple auditorium on April 12 and April 13. It promises t be an aural and visual delight to the more than 1000 people who are expected to attend from all over the bay area. Cont’d on page 25
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BAPS Women's Conference emphasizes 'Lead from Within' India Post News Service
event with her presence. She conveyed the message to Lead from Within through her personal outtakes and stories as a wife, a
in sharing this afternoon with women who think alike, share similar aspirations, goals, and challenges in life. I would like to thank
CHINO HILLS, CA: What is leadership? Society ascribes leadership in politics, religion, communities, sports, etc. based on actions, achievement, and at times, popularity. Typically, we limit our view of "leaders" to people in position of power: CEOs, politicians, athletes, and perhaps community leaders. There are leaders who have a strong work ethic and who win and accomplish major tasks; but are they life's leaders? Are their characters worth emulating? True leadership is rooted in a person's character, in their actions, and in the examples they set. Everyone has A BAPS volunteer registers delegates to the Women's Conference the potential to be a leader in his or her own right. To recognize the unparalleled daughter and most importantly, a BAPS for giving me this opportuleaders we know and admire, to mother. The audience took inspi- nity." Ms. Meera Patel, a former U.S acknowledge the leaders amongst ration from her accounts and realus, and to enrich the leaders within ized how they faced similar chal- Marine and entrepreneur, is currently a marketing specialist at The us, BAPS hosted a Walt Disney Company. In her Women's Conference opening dialogue, Ms. Patel led an themed "Lead from Within" energetic and interactive exat 10 centers across North change in identifying whom they America. On March 22, consider to be leaders and why. over 350 women gathered Ms. Patel highlighted the necesat the BAPS Shri sity of individual leadership in Swaminarayan Mandir in one's community, saying, "LeadChino Hills, California to ership is using one's influence for participate in this annual a worthwhile cause. When we deevent, now observing its fine it this way, it makes leaderseventh year. ship imaginable and accessible for The annual conference everyone. Every one of us can do is inspired by His Holiness it. Everyone is a leader." Pramukh Swami Maharaj, The following speech adthe fifth spiritual successor dressed leadership essentials that of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, mold a good leader. Ms. Monal in an effort to highlight the Ms Meera Patel, former U.S Marine and Patel, a registered nurse in labor empowering role of women entrepreneur, delivers a speech on and delivery at Arrowhead Rein today's society and also leadership from within gional Medical Center, emphasized to ensure their spiritual lenges in their lives. the need to understand one's self, growth. Dr. Subramanian shared her one's belief system, values, and Dr. Brinda Subramaniam, professor of physics and engineering enthusiasm for the Women's Con- spirituality. Encouraging the auat Cypress College, graced the ference, "It's a pleasure to be here, dience to channel the leader
Sonu Nigam is back to set the stage ablaze India Post News Service
SAN JOSE, CA: Sankara Eye Foundation joins hands once again with Sonu Nigam to bring forth an unforgettable event for the entire family. Mark your calendars and save the date for San Jose: Sunday - May 25th; Seattle: Friday - May 30th; and Los Angles Saturday - May 31st. Sonu Nigam is back to set the stage ablaze again! Sonu Nigam, born July 30, 1973 in Faridabad, Haryana, India, is known for his amazing vocal chords. Sonu is also an actor, comedian, musician and composer. He has redefined the meaning of music all together. Sonu is a living legend in the
music world and has captured the hearts of millions. He started his career in Bollywood singing for an album called "Rafi Ki Yaadein" which was a collection of the late Mohammad Rafi songs. His passion, energy, hard work and dedication to music is felt by every music lover. It's music from the heart that captures your soul when Sonu Nigam sings. No wonder why his 2012 tour was called "Klose to my Heart" and now he's back yet with another electrifying concert "Klose to my Soul". In 2012, Sonu Nigam did something no other artist had ever done before for his "Klose to my Heart" tour. Cont’d on page 26
within, Ms. Patel stated, "We are all leaders in our own right, whether that be within our families, our communities, or our careers. Her talk focused on the need for a connection with one's conscience as it plays an important role in day-to-day actions. She emphasized that an understanding of the values and beliefs that guide our choices solidifies our spiritual foundation in leadership. In delivering the closing speech of the conference, Ms. Bindi Patel, a registered nurse who specializes in pediatric oncology at The Children's Hospital of Orange County, shared fundamental quali-
all her diverse roles. Among the women honored at the conference, Ms. Rupa Kotecha, a registered nurse and local hero, shared her experience in saving a life on a busy Southern California freeway. Though Ms. Kotecha was off-duty, she displayed selfless initiative in performing CPR on a complete stranger unconsciously slouched over his steering wheel. Ms. Kotecha remarked, "To be a leader, you don't have to have a uniform, a badge, or a title. All you need is the willingness to help another person. The smallest acts can mean the world to someone else, so don't
Dr. Brinda Subramaniam, professor of physics and engineering, delivers her keynote address
ties expressed by leaders she looks to emulate. She spoke of her ultimate role model, her guru Pramukh Swami Maharaj. She conveyed moving examples from his life, exemplifying sacrifice, humility, and stability. She emphasized how her guru's life demonstrates courage and strength in challenging situations, guiding her in everyday actions and choices. This enables her to be an effective, poised leader in
be hesitant to help others." After the conference, attendees enjoyed the opportunity to network and share their perspective on the talks of the day. The younger members of the audience took notice of their own belief system and gained confidence in their ability to lead in their pursuits. Others recognized their strengths, contributions, and recognized themselves as leaders, some for the very first time.
SIFA celebrates 35 years of service to Bay area Cont’d from page 24
On Saturday the 12th, the festival will be kicked off with Nagai bros- violin duet, followed by a musical discourse by Bay area's own Paramesh Gopi and Priya Parameshwarn. On Sunday, the 13th, SIFA plans to honor Smt Mythili Kumar's contribution to dance for the last 50 years, followed by a lecture demonstration on "Evolution in Choreography' Festival highlights include the recently awarded Sangeeta Kalanidhi, Smt Sudha Raghunathan on Saturday
evening and the effervescent duo, Trichur Brothers, as headliner on Sunday evening. An audio visual presentation on the late, great Lalgudi Jayaraman and a performance by Smt. K. Gayatri on Sunday round out the festivities nicely. Interesting festival fanfare is planned and food will be available for purchase throughout the event. It is a not to be missed event for classical music lovers. An important perk to the ladies: a great opportunity to bring out the best Kancheepuram silk sarees and flaunt them at the festival.
26 India Post
Community Across America
April 4, 2014
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CAIR launches Immigrants' Rights Department India Post News Service
LOS ANGELES: California is
home to the largest population of immigrants in the United States. It's no wonder then that CAIRLA's office receives a high volume of requests ranging from green card holders who need help applying for citizenship to refugees
who need assistance attaining asylum. In response to the high num-
ber of immigration-related requests it receives, CAIR-LA recently launched its new Immigrants' Rights Department. In keeping with the organization's goal to promote inclusion and civic engagement, the department seeks
to empower non-citizens by helping them gain independence, security, and the opportunity to fully participate in American society. The Immigrants' Rights Department is dedicated to providing highquality, low cost and pro bono services to individuals seeking legal assistance. Led by Farida Chehata, the department will conduct legal assessment, representation, advocacy, information sessions, citizenship application assistance, clinics, and outreach. Chehata is an attorney with substantial experience in immigration law, including work on asylum cases. "I am humbled by the opportunity to serve those who are seek-
Ami Bera joins in fun & frolic of Ekal Foundation Holi Cont’d from page 24
Bobbie Allen gave a very thought-provoking speech, highlighting the remarkable work done by Ekal India for tribal education and welfare. Faith Whitmore remembered the fun from last year and said "we have come back with many more friends to have so much fun", while appreciating the efforts of the Indian American community to get together and celebrate Holi for such a great cause. The entire community was happy and felt greatly privileged and honored to receive the Certificate of Congressional Recognition to the Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA, Sacramento Chapter from Congressman Ami Bera, commemorating Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation for their commitment to education and village development in rural India. The certificate was received by Ranju Verma, President, Ekal Vidyalaya Sacramento Chapter and all volunteers including Sunanda Kumathe,
ing a better life in the United States and the chance to become civically engaged, contributing members of our communities," said Chehata. "In keeping with CAIR's mission to enhance civic participation, one of the department's focuses will be on making it more accessible for permanent legal residents to gain the rights, freedom and responsibilities that come with citizenship." Towards that end, CAIR-LA's Immigrants' Rights Department is currently hosting citizenship information sessions at multiple South-
Sonu Nigam is back to set the stage ablaze Cont’d from page 25
For the first time ever he performed with a live symphony orchestra which had critics and fans raving about his performance. Teesha Nigam was introduced for the first time and gave an outstanding performance. Sonu Nigam performed "Kya Hua Tera Vaada" on stage with his father Agam Nigam. The highlight of the show was when his son Nevaan
Shivesh Sinha, Jay Srivastava, Divya, Jona Jha and Dr Harsh Vermaon on behalf of Ekal Sacramento community. A healthy sumptuous and authentic Indian food for all the par-
ticipants was sponsored by Peacock restaurant, Folsom. Participants showered accolades on the Ekal volunteers for arranging the event professionally in a very well organized manner.
Fun with color
Nigam joined Sonu on stage to sing "Abhi Mujh Mein Kahine" from the 2012 film Agneepath. He had the entire audience up and dancing to his all-time hit song "Bijuria". Do not miss the opportunity to experience the music extravaganza. Book your tickets now! Established in the Bay Area, SEF is a non-profit organization that has been working for the past fifteen years for the cause of eradicating curable blindness in India.
Obtain contentment & happiness thru Ram Avtar Cont’d from page 23
Participants line up for food
ern California mosques. After attending an information session, those interested in applying for naturalization will receive information for CAIR-LA's upcoming Citizenship Clinic scheduled for Saturday, April 12, where specialized legal assistance on completing the naturalization application will be provided. In light of the forthcoming changes to the citizenship application process, which go into effect May 2, all eligible persons are encouraged to apply now.
Rather, he abided by his dharma, principles, and his duty. Greedy desires can never be fulfilled, and the ceaseless quest for them brings only frustration. Therefore, regardless of how smart we are, how rich we are, or how beautiful we are, we are demons if our hearts are filled with anger and greed. Thus, in essence, the difference between Lord Rama and Ravana is as the following. Both were kings; both were learned in the scriptures; both were charismatic; both were beautiful. But, the ideal Hindu Dharmik life lead by Rama made him a god and non-ideal Adharmik life lead by Ravana made him a demon king. In the present world, the celebration of Shri Ram Janma Utsav has more relevance and usefulness than before because Lord Ram exemplified himself as a perfect person - 'Maryada Purshottam'. He showed us how to embody the divine spirit on Earth, how to live our lives in accordance with dharma and the divine principles.Our desires and wishes for comforts, contentment, prosperity, and happiness will be
fulfilled only after the celebration of Shri Ram Avatar. The incarnations and preaching of Trinity in Hinduism are not meant only for Indian subcontinent but for the whole universe and everyone on this earth to follow and live a worthy and meaningful life. In this connection, Lord Ram's avatar and His current Janma Utsav is to bless the whole universe and to establish ideal principles in this world. Balakanda reference says that Lord Rama incarnated for the welfare of this universe: Everyone should participate in Shri Ram Janma Utsav to learn lessons from the Ramayan and from the glorious examples of Shri Rama's life and obtain His blessings for your bright future, prosperity, and bliss.On behalf of Hindu Mandir of Lake County, I invite all of you to come with family, friends, and relatives and participate in Shri Ram Janma Utsav to be held on Tuesday, April 8 from 6:00pm to 8:30pm and make use of this auspicious opportunity to have Darshan of Lord Ram Lalla and Palana seva. Pandit Anil Joshi is the Priest at Hindu Mandir of Lake County, Grayslake, IL
April 4, 2014
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India Post 27
TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS
1 Patakha Guddi: Highway 2 Ishq Bulaava: Hasee Toh Phasee 3 Mann Kunto Maula: Gunday 4 Maahi Ve: Highway 5 Zehnaseeb: Hasee Toh Phasee 6 Kinare: Queen 28 India Post
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April 4, 2014
T
his piece of news is surely going to break many hearts. The heartthrob of Bollywood, Ranbir Kapoor might get hitched with his sweetheart Katrina Kaif by 2015 end. This breaking news has been leaked by an insider and there is a hush-hush in the industry about their speculated wedding. After their New Year tiff, Ranbir Kapoor and Katrina Kaif are playing safe and are quite guarded about their relationship. Kat wants commitment from Ranbir and marriage is the best way to cement any strong relationship. It is also heard that Ranbir has taken Kat to meet his grandmother Krishna Raj Kapoor at their ancestral bungalow in Deonar and the marriage preparation is on. News is also doing the rounds that
S
onam Kapoor is set to play a politician in her yet-untitled upcoming film. It is an adaptation of author Anuja Chauhan's book, Battle For Bittora, and will be produced by her father, Anil Kapoor. And now, we have come to know that it was Sonam who took the initiative to buy the rights to the novel. "I've bought the rights to the book with my own money. My father will produce it, but I have spent a lot of money," says Sonam. The novel is a love story between two up and coming politicians who, despite being in love,
7 London Thumakda: Queen 8 Bawla Sa Sapna : Shaadi Ke Side Effects 9 Yahaan Vahaan (Reprise): Shaadi Ke Side Effects 10 Khushfehmiyan (Unplugged): One By Two Neetu Kapoor, who is very happy with her son's choice, is gearing up for Ranbir's wedding. She has started preparing for the DDay. Katrina is the choice of both Rishi and Neetu Singh and they have given green signal to their son. When Neetu was on a London vacation with son, she met with Kat's mother over lunch and both the ladies had a long chat over their relationship and marriage.
are contesting against each other in the elections. Talking about how the film had faced initial hiccups, she says, "It was supposed to be made with me on two occasions in the past, but for some strange reason, that never happened. Whoever planned to make the film wanted to cast me in it, but the film never took off. So I thought, 'As no one is making the film and it's such a nice story, let me buy the rights.' So now, we are making the film and it's a lovely story," says Sonam.
Bollywood
April 4, 2014
India Post 29
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A
ctress Payal Ghosh will soon make her Bollywood debut with a yet-to-be-titled comedy opposite Vir Das. Helmed by Sanjay Chhel, the film also stars Rishi Kapoor and Paresh Rawal. Payal had started her career with Telugu flick Prayanam. She says about her Hindi debut, "The script had me in splits. I felt that it was the right platform to make my Bollywood entry." So, how was it sharing screen space with veterans like Paresh and Rishi? "I have always admired them as actors. But after working with them, I realized that they are wonderful human beings as well," she says.
A
fter mom Sridevi's Bollywood comeback not too long back, it's time daughter Jhanvi Kapoor finally makes that big Bollywood debut everyone's been specu-
lating. Seems things have already been set in motion. A leading daily reports that Sridevi and Boney Kapoor's elder daughter Jhanvi will be launched in Bollywood by not her own dad but filmmaker Karan Johar, known for giving the young talented lot their first break. And this development didn't happen overnight, but has in fact been at the back of KJo's mind for quite some time now, considering he's known the Kapoor family for a long time. He's apparently also looking for other fresh faces to cast opposite the little lady. Meanwhile Jhanvi isn't simply sitting back enjoying the show. She's reportedly been working hard these past couple of days - like regularly taking diction classes and dancing classes.
A
amir Khan, who has always been the source of encouragement and inspiration for many youngsters, will now 'introduce' (quite literally), Jackie Shroff's son Tiger Shroff to the media at the first look launch of Tiger's debut film Heropanti. In fact Aamir will be launching the trailer of the film which is set to release on May 23. The first look launch will happen in the 1st week of April. Readers may recall that Aamir, who was last seen with Jackie in the smash hit flick Dhoom 3, shares a great rapport with him. Not just that, Aamir, who has known Tiger since his childhood days, even worked out together with him in the same gym.
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April 4, 2014
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Indian-origin doctor pleads guilty to taking bribes NEW YORK: An Indian-origin pediatrician in the US has pleaded guilty to accepting bribes in exchange for test referrals as part of a long-running scheme operated by a diagnostic firm. Surender Gorukanti, 46, of Brooklyn, New York, admitted before US District Judge Stanley Chesler in Newark federal court to an information charging him with one count of accepting bribes, Attorney Paul Fishman said. Besides Gorukanti, 24 people including 14 physicians - have pleaded guilty in connection with the bribery scheme, which its organizers have admitted involved millions of dollars in bribes and resulted in more than USD 100 million in payments to the diagnostic firm from Medicare and various private insurance companies. Gorukanti admitted he accepted cheques of USD 1,000 per month as bribes from the firm in return for referring patient blood specimens to it. The bribery count to which Gorukanti pleaded guilty carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a USD 250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for June 16. -PTI
„ Women who eat veggies are healthier later WASHINGTON: Young women who eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables show significantly lower rates of hardening in the arteries 20 years later, says US research. However, men did not appear to benefit the way women did, raising questions about why a heart healthy diet may benefit one sex over the other, according to the study presented at the American College of Cardiology conference. The research was based on 2,508 participants in the government-sponsored Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study, which began in the 1980s with the aim of tracking heart health among 1830 year olds over time. Women who reported eating eight to nine servings a day of fruits and vegetables in their 20s were 40 percent less likely to have calcified plaque in their arteries in their 40s, compared with those who ate the just three to four servings a day. The association remained even after researchers accounted for other lifestyle behaviors that could impact cardiovascular health. -AFP
Health Science
Brain's mechanism knows when to stop drinking water Details on Page 35
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April 4, 2014
Health law legacy eludes Obama as changes sink in WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama's health care law has indeed managed to change the U.S., but major elements of his signature domestic achievement face an uncertain future as a rollercoaster enrollment period winds down. Americans are unlikely to go back to a time when people with medical problems could be denied coverage by private insurance companies. But Obama's overhaul needs major fixes if it is to go down in history as a legacy achievement like Medicare or Social Security, the long-entrenched and popular programs that provide retirement benefits and health care coverage to seniors. Republicans have again made repeal of ``Obamacare'' their official battle cry ahead of the November elections when control of Congress will be at stake. But even if the Republicans win control of the Senate and Congress were to repeal the law next year, the President would veto it. Opponents would then need a difficult twothirds majority in both chambers
to override Obama's veto. The Affordable Care Act was passed in 2010 on a strict partyline vote when Democrats still
more with inadequate coverage. But many of its key provisions did not take effect until this year - including the start-up for policies
Dan Luke, a self-employed owner of "hardworking pictures," posing in his office in St. Paul, Minn. As a hectic sign-up season winds down, President Barack Obama's health care law has managed to change the country.
controlled both the House and Senate. The U.S. had been the only major developed country without a national health care system, leaving nearly 50 million people in the country without health insurance and millions
offered by private companies through exchanges created by the federal and state governments. The 6-month-long sign-up season, which got off to a rocky start in October due to severe website glitches, came to an end on Mon-
day. After the HealthCare.gov site finally got fixed, more than 6 million people have managed to sign up for coverage, many of them receiving government subsidies to lower the cost of purchasing health insurance policies on the exchanges. The website is seeing heavy traffic this weekend, and consumers may encounter a wait or last-minute glitches. The enrollment figures are large enough for the exchanges to stay afloat economically, but the new insurance markets created by the law are anything but customer friendly. Many consumers have bought policies with restricted access to top-tier hospitals and the latest medications. The administration's next big challenge is to make 2015 open enrollment more manageable for consumers unaccustomed to dealing with insurance jargon. Until now, those signing up have skewed toward an older crowd. That could lead to higher premiums next year, making the program a harder sell for younger people. Cont'd on Page 34
AIIMS doc questions quality of life saving drugs NEW DELHI: A department head of AIIMS has questioned the quality of life saving drugs available in the premier hospital and demanded a review of all those drugs procured, claiming the condition of her husband "deteriorated" after consuming one such medicine. In her letter to the Medical Superintendent, Head of the Department of Anaesthesiology, Dr Chandralekha asked the hospital head to review stock of life saving drugs which are used in emergency situations quite often. As per the letter, Dr Chandralekha's husband recently developed severe urticaria all over the body after consuming the some drugs from the hospital's store. As his condition worsened
he was prescribed heavy doses of anti-allergic drugs. The treatment went on for five days.
she said in her letter. In view of this, the treatment was reviewed and it was decided
"Despite giving such heavy doses of all anti-allergic drugs, response to the treatment was not satisfactory, rather negligible,"
to stop one of the tablets and change the brand and the new drug was purchased from the market," she said.
After that the condition of the patient started showing improvement. "The problem could be detected just because we are living in the campus, having pool of doctors around us watching patient personally," Chandralekha said. She said," Samples are being sent to you duly signed by me, for review, and such spurious life saving drugs should be withdrawn and banned immediately." "I am seriously concerned with the substandard life saving drugs," she said in her letter dated March 25. According to the hospital sources, the samples have been sent for testing and one company has already been debarred. -PTI
April 4, 2014
Health Science Post
India Post 33
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Maryland health care sign-up fair draws hundreds BALTIMORE: A health care enrollment fair drew hundreds of Maryland residents who lined up and waited to beat the deadline to enroll in a health care plan. People said they generally waited about an hour at the Baltimore Convention Center before sitting down with a navigator to help guide them through the process. Several said it then took between 15 and 30 minutes to enroll. LaVerne Henson, a 49-year-old Baltimore resident who hasn't had health insurance since 2009, said she decided to take advantage of the in-person help after trying six frustrating times to enroll herself through the state's troubled online exchange website. ``Coming here, we had no problem,'' Henson said. ``We went straight through it in less than 20 minutes.'' Amber LeSane, 33, said she had had trouble understanding how different health care plans worked when she used the website, and she wanted to meet with someone to get more information about deductions and tax credits. After waiting an hour to see a navigator, LeSane said she enrolled in a plan in 30 minutes. ``It was actually pretty good,'' LeSane, of Randallstown, said. ``The wait time
wasn't as long as I expected, and the navigator was very friendly, very helpful, so it was overall a good experience.'' Organizers reported a steady stream of people attending.
Health care enrollment
U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings, D-Md., spoke to a roomful of people who were sitting down with 33 navigators. He implored them to tell friends and neighbors who don't have health insurance to enroll by the deadline. ``I am not asking you to talk to them. I
Researchers fret over high cholesterol in US kids WASHINGTON: A third of US children tested for cholesterol have borderline or high levels, placing them at higher risk of cardiovascular disease as adults, says a study. Researchers studied the medical records of nearly 13,000 kids in Texas aged nine to 11 who were screened for cholesterol as part of a routine checkup. Of this group 4,700, or 30 percent, had
borderline or elevated total cholesterol, said the study presented to the yearly conference of the American College of Cardiology, which is meeting this weekend in Washington. These worrisome results show that "this is a population that needs attention and could potentially benefit from treatment," said Dr Thomas Seery, paediatric cardiologist at Texas Children's Hospital, assistant professor of Pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine, and the lead investigator of the study. Although cardiovascular illnesses are
am begging you to,'' Cummings said. Karen Snead, a 50-year-old Baltimore resident who enrolled, said she would do just that. ``I'm going to pass the word on to all the
rare among children, the presence of certain risk factors in the early years of life can increase the chances of developing heart disease as an adult. Previous studies have shown that atherosclerosis, a hardening and narrowing of the arteries, can begin in childhood. "If we can identify and work to lower cholesterol in children, we can potentially make a positive impact by stalling vascular changes and reducing the chances of future disease," Seery wrote. He said this is important amid the growing obesity epidemic in the US, which is resulting in a larger population of children with dyslipidemia - an abnormal amount of cholesterol or fats in the blood. It is estimated that 31.9 percent of youths aged two to 19 are overweight or obese in this country. Researchers conducting this study also found that boys were more likely than girls to have elevated total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol, and triglycerides, while girls had lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or "good" cholesterol. The authors said they hope their findings will give more weight to guidelines sponsored by the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute and issued in 2011 and sponsored by the American Academy of Pediatrics that call for universal cholesterol screening of children between the ages of nine and 11 years and, again between 17 and 21. -AFP
people I know that don't,'' Snead said. Maryland residents can continue to get help in person at a variety of locations across the state. Locations and hours of operation can be found on the Maryland Health Connection website at www.marylandhealthconnection.gov The state's health exchange board has adopted a plan to help people who have tried to enroll before the deadline at the end of the month but were unable to complete an application. Consumers will be able
to let the exchange know that they have started an application but have been unable to finish it. Maryland is one of 14 states that created its own health care exchange, which crashed on the day it debuted Oct. 1 and continues to have serious problems. The last-minute signups come as state officials have been thinking about whether to adopt another state's exchange technology, move to the federal exchange or make more fixes to the state's exchange. Gov. Martin O'Malley said an announcement on how the state will proceed will be made in the coming days. One potential solution that has been discussed for weeks is to adapt the Connecticut health exchange system for Maryland for qualified health plans. Sen. Ben Cardin, who greeted residents at the enrollment fair, said he believed it would be the right time to reconsider a new platform after the first signup period ends. ``That's what I think the state is considering, a new platform where we can get better service - not only to those who want to enroll but those who are currently enrolled, because this is a continuing process,'' Cardin said. ``So we want to have a very friendly consumer platform, so you can go on the Internet at any time, get the information you need, change things if you have to, enroll if you haven't already, so I think the state recognizes that it made a mistake. It's now correcting it.'' -AP
Health Science Post
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April 4, 2014
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Studies find new drugs greatly lower cholesterol WASHINGTON: A new class of experimental medicines can dramatically lower cholesterol, raising hopes of a fresh option for people who can't tolerate or don't get enough help from Lipitor and other statin drugs that have been used for this for decades. The first large studies of these
evolocumab, found it lowered LDL or ``bad'' cholesterol by 55 to 66 percent compared to a fake drug, and by nearly that much when compared to Merck's Zetia, another cholesterol medication. As impressive as that is, it's still just part of the picture. Doctors want evidence that the way
People attend the American College of Cardiology's conference in Washington
drugs were presented at an American College of Cardiology conference in Washington. Several companies are developing these drugs, which are aimed at 70 million Americans and millions more worldwide who have high LDL or ``bad'' cholesterol, a major risk for heart disease. Three studies of Amgen Inc.'s version of these drugs, called
these drugs lower cholesterol also will lead to fewer heart attacks and deaths, because that proof already exists for statins. New studies are underway to test this, but Amgen said it will seek U.S. government approval for its drug this year based on cholesterol-lowering alone. That was enough to win approval for statins and Zetia, but
use of Zetia has declined since 2008, when research showed it failed to help prevent heart attacks even though it cut cholesterol. Hopes are high that the new Amgen drug and others like it will do better. ``I would be happy to see it approved'' on the cholesterol results alone, said Dr. Hadley Wilson, a cardiologist at Carolinas HealthCare System. ``We need additional agents other than statins'' to help patients, he said. Nearly all current cholesterol medicines - fibrates, niacin and top-selling statins - are decades old. Statins such as Lipitor, Zocor and Crestor curb cholesterol production. Zetia, which came out about a decade ago, helps block the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine. The new drugs block PCSK9, a substance that interferes with the liver's ability to remove cholesterol from the blood. They have big drawbacks, though. Statins are pills sold as generics for as little as a dime a day. The new drugs are proteins rather than chemicals, and those tend to be very expensive to make. They also must be given as shots every two weeks or once a month. People can give the shots to themselves with a pen-like device. The companies developing the new
Health law legacy eludes Obama as changes sink in Cont'd from Page 32
This year, the Obama administration has been able to pitch the health care reform by pointing to the ``carrots'' in the law: subsidies to purchase policies and guaranteed coverage despite pre-existing medical conditions. But the ``sticks'' are just over the horizon: collecting penalties from individuals who remain uninsured and enforcing requirements that mediumto large-sized employers provide affordable coverage. The health care law also expanded Medicaid, the government's health insurance program for the poor, but a 2012 Supreme Court decision that upheld the Affordable Care Act also allowed states to opt out of the Medicaid expansion. Nearly half the states, mostly led by Republicans, are still opposed or undecided about expanding Medicaid. As a result, millions of low-income people who otherwise would have been covered remain uninsured. Many basic facts about the ul-
timate effects of the health insurance program remain unclear. It's not known how many of those who have gotten coverage were previously uninsured - the ultimate test of the law. Independent measurements by Gallup do show
He's happy with the coverage he and his wife have bought; they're saving $300 a month on premiums compared with the last time they had insurance. fewer uninsured Americans, but such progress hasn't won hearts and minds. The public remains deeply divided, with opponents of the law outnumbering supporters. Republicans are united by their desire to repeal ``Obamacare,'' contending that the law's mix of
taxes and mandates is killing jobs while making health insurance more expensive for many. However, Republicans remain divided over what to replace it with. Among Obamacare consumers is Dan Luke of St. Paul, Minnesota, the owner of a small video production company who had been uninsured since he was turned down for coverage last year due to a pre-existing condition. The condition - Luke was born with one eye due to a birth defect, and he uses a glass eye. He's happy with the coverage he and his wife have bought; they're saving $300 a month on premiums compared with the last time they had insurance. But he said he had to endure weeks of website run-arounds. ``There is a lot of bureaucracy involved,'' said Luke. ``It's sort of like taxes, filled with loopholes and pitfalls. They should make it easier for people to get insurance and pay for insurance, rather than have to prove so many things and jump through so many hoops.'' -AP
medicines have not said what they might cost. ``We were very, very pleased'' about how well patients accepted the shots, and if they offer better results, especially for those with inherited conditions, ``people will accept it,'' said Dr. Michael Koren of Jacksonville Center for Clinical Research in Florida, who helped lead two of the studies. The three Amgen studies involved about 2,000 patients in all. Doctors tested the drug in people with high cholesterol not taking other medicines, as a long-term (one-year) treatment in people already taking various medications and in combination with statins
Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., lowered LDL cholesterol by 47 percent vs. 16 percent for Zetia in a study of about 100 people not taking any other drugs for high cholesterol. • Bococizumab, from Pfizer Inc., lowered LDL 45 percent to 67 percent, depending on dose, compared to placebo in 354 people with high cholesterol also taking a statin. ``There's great interest'' in all of these drugs, but doctors will wait for evidence that they lower heart risks, said Dr. Neil Stone, a Northwestern University cardiologist and spokesman for the American Heart Association.
``There's great interest'' in all of these drugs, but doctors will wait for evidence that they lower heart risks, said Dr. Neil Stone, a Northwestern University cardiologist and spokesman for the American Heart Association. and other drugs in people with an inherited cholesterol disorder. In general, side-effect rates were about the same for evolocumab vs. placebo or Zetia. In some studies, muscle aches, nausea and a few other problems were a little higher with the experimental drug. Overall safety ``is very, very encouraging,'' said Dr. Scott Wasserman, Amgen's executive medical director. Researchers also said: • Alirocumab, a similar drug being developed by Sanofi SA and
It may be easier to justify their use in patients with genes that cause high cholesterol at an early age, he said. A spokeswoman for the federal Food and Drug Administration, Sandy Walsh, suggested that might be the case. ``Although we cannot comment on the likelihood of approval based solely on specific indications or populations,'' two drugs recently were approved based on cholesterol-lowering for people with inherited conditions, she noted. -AP
Galderma starts academies to train doctors NEW DELHI: Switzerlandbased skin care firm Galderma has said it has started two academies in India to provide training to doctors in aesthetic medicines. "We have started academies in Mumbai and Delhi. Huge demand is there in India as the sector is still in the infant stage in the country. We see huge opportunities. As this area needs precision, we have started training doctors," Scott Mclennan Head of Regional Centre of Excellence (Asia Pacific), Galderma, told PTI. According to estimates, in India, only 800 doctors are practicing aesthetic medicine. On the other hand, in Korea, the number is 6,000. "This means, a huge market is there in India which we can tap,"
he said, adding the company would also start the academy in other parts of the country such as Hyderabad. To reach out to tier-II and tierIII cities, Mclennan said they are visiting clinics and engage with the practitioners. "The academy will help in honing skills in latest treatment in facial enhancement through dermal fillers. At the academy, our experts will conduct round the year training sessions to meet the requirements of Indian medical aesthetic practitioners," he added. The demand for dermal fillers and other aesthetic treatments is increasing rapidly in India, Galderma India Head (Aesthetic and Corrective Business) Madhusudhan H K said.
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Health Science Post
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Brain's mechanism knows when to stop drinking water MELBOURNE: Our brains are hardwired to stop us drinking more water than is healthy, according to a new study. The study led by the University Of Melbourne and the Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health found a 'stop mechanism' that determined brain signals telling the individual to stop drinking water when no longer thirsty. Researcher Professor Derek Denton from the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and
Health Sciences at the University of Melbourne said the study provided insight into the human instincts that determine survival behavior and are also of medical importance. "Different areas of the brain involved in emotional decision-making were activated when people drank water after becoming thirsty and when study participants followed instructions to keep drinking when
no longer thirsty," Denton said. "The brain regions determining the signals to stop drinking have not previously been recognized in this context. It identifies an important component in regulation and this 'stop mechanism' may prevent complications from excessive water intake," he said. Overdrinking can reduce the salt concentration of the blood that can result in the swelling of the brain, a potentially fatal condition. Also known as polydipsia, it has been found in some patients with schizophrenia and in some marathon runners. Denton believes the findings could be applied to other aspects of human gratification. "This is a study of elements of gratification and how the body programs accurate behavior. In revealing aspects of gratification control, the data are relevant to study the gratification of other instincts, such as food intake, salt intake and sexual behavior," he said. The study used magnetic resonance imaging to scan two physiological conditions of the brain, starting with scanning brain regions during the experience of thirst. Participants were then removed from the scanner and asked to drink to satiation or 'overdrink' and returned for further scanning. -PTI
India should help other countries eradicate polio: Prez NEW DELHI: India being declared 'po"We must be vigilant. There is need for lio-free' by the World Health Organization watchfulness and preparedness to see that is a "landmark achievement" and it should there is no recurrence of this disease," he now assist other countries such as Paki- said. stan, Nigeria and Afghanistan in their fight The unprecedented program to eradicate against this disease, President Pranab Mukherjee has said. "India must assist other countries such as Pakistan, Nigeria and Afghanistan in their fight against this disease in improving their health systems and infrastructure," said Mukherjee while inaugurating the Polio Free Conclave 2014 organized by the Rotary International here. "The unique challenge in India was the sheer number of people combined with the difficult terrain in many states. It was President Pranab Mukherjee presents a memento to Union possible only because of the un- Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Ghulam Nabi Azad during a function to inaugurate the Rotary International’s paralleled dedication of all conPolio-Free Conclave-2014 cerned and the relentless efforts put in by the workers, doctors, activists the polio virus from the country was taken and various stakeholders including parents up by the central and state governments of children in achieving this day", he said. supported by several national and internaHe, however, stressed the need to be tional agencies such as Rotary Internavigilant to ensure that there was no recur- tional, UNICEF, WHO, CDC and Melinda rence of this disease. and Gates Foundation, he added.-PTI
Marriage is healthy for the heart: Study WASHINGTON: Being married makes for a healthy heart, while being divorced or widowed is linked to higher rates of cardiovascular disease, according to a study of 3.5 million people. The study is the largest of its kind to show how heart health is linked to marital status, and was presented at the American College of Cardiology conference. "These findings certainly shouldn't drive people to get married, but it's important to know that decisions regarding who one is with, why, and why not may have important implications for vascular health," said lead author Carlos Alviar, cardiology fellow at New York University Langone Medical Center. People who were divorced had a higher likelihood of any vascular disease, abdominal aortic aneurysm, coronary artery disease and cerebrovascular disease when compared to single people, according to the study. Widowers showed slightly higher odds of any vascular disease and coronary artery disease, also when compared to people who had never been married. "The study demonstrates that other risk factors, such as smoking and obesity, hypertension, diabetes and being sedentary
also increases with being divorced or widowed," said Suzanne Steinbaum, director, women and heart disease, at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York. "As married people are more likely to
help each other stay healthy, by making sure their spouse eats well, exercises, takes medications and helps in attending doctors appointments, married people tend to have less risk for heart disease," added Steinbaum, who was not involved in the study. -PTI
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Bhopal builder duped into 'donating' Rs 75,000 THANE: With the arrest of one South African national here, Thane Police claimed to have busted a racket involving foreigners, who cheated people into donating money for the poor and needy. According to API Subash G Kale of Naupada police station, South African national Goam Williams was arrested here after a builder from Bhopal Sayyed Isaz Dastagir lodged a complaint of cheating against him and his two associates. While Williams, who resides in Bangalore, has been arrested, police is on the look out for two of his aides - Maria Karman GoatzThomas and Michel Jepe Canlon. The trio had duped Dastagir into 'donating' Rs 75,000 into the account and had asked him come down to Navi Mumbai to get the money parcel cleared from the Customs by paying an additional Rs 40,000.-PTI
„ Developer gets OK for road across Michigan dunes SAUGATUCK TOWNSHIP, Mich.: A development company has received state approval for the construction of an access road across sand dunes along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Singapore Dunes LLC expects to start building the two-lane blacktop this spring in Allegan County's Saugatuck Township, the Grand Rapids Press reported. The road will allow access to 18 upscale home sites that front the lake or sit in the dunes with views of the water. Cost of each site could range from $1.5 million to $2.75 million. Construction of the homes has yet to begin. Project manager Stephen Neumer said the road will follow a historic wagon trail that led to lumber mills at what once was a village called Singapore. The village was covered by the dune's shifting sands and became a ghost town near the end of the 19th century.-AP
Real Estate
Trumark celebrates the grand opening of Momentum & Velocity
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3rd Edition of Gruhapravesh USA will showcase 100+ projects India Post News Service
CHENNAI: IndiaProperty.com has announced its 3rd edition in the US, after numerous successful property expos across India and prominent international cities
new properties in four cities namely Santa Clara, Atlanta, Dallas and New Jersey. Over the past 30 months Gruhapravesh has seen record breaking response with more than 500,000 customers, 1680 plus on-
The flagship property show by IndiaProperty.com will feature projects from Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Mysore, Hyderabad, Vizag and Ahmedabad. like Singapore and Dubai. Top builders will participate in this event, showcasing around 100 projects across all segments. IndiaProperty.com has redefined property shows over the past few years. The US Edition of Gruhapravesh is all set to reach new heights with a wide array of
NCR, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Coimbatore, Bangalore, Mysore, Hyderabad, Vizag and Ahmedabad. According to Ganesh Vasudevan, CEO IndiaProperty.com, "It gives us immense pleasure to bring Gruhapravesh to Santa Clara, Atlanta, Dallas and New Jersey, which have the highest concentration of Indian Diaspora. With
India's general elections around the corner and relatively low and competitive property pricing, there can't be a better time than now to invest in Indian real estate. We offer the perfect window of opportunity for prospective investors, with over 100 new projects along with personal guidance from our property experts to your desired need and preferences." Schedule for Gruhapravesh 2014
Schedule for Gruhapravesh 2014:
spot bookings and 492 happy builders and promoters. This year Gruhapravesh in the US will see top builders like Godrej, Aparna Constructions & Estates Pvt. Ltd., Brigade Group, Salarpuria Sattva, Nambiar Builders, and Terraspace Enterprise Ltd. The expo will primarily feature projects from Delhi-
Chicago easing public housing ban for ex-offenders CHICAGO: The city of Chicago will begin easing restrictions that have prevented former prison inmates from living in public housing. Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced the program at an event to promote his administration's efforts to help ex-offenders find jobs and housing. ``Serving time in jail or
prison should not mean that you forfeit your opportunity to turn your life around,'' the mayor said in written remarks accompanying the announcement. ``Formerly
The housing restrictions date back to a time when public housing high-rises in Chicago were centers of gang activity and many residents lived in fear. T h e gradual lifting of those restrictions will start off with a pilot program in which 50 former inmates will move into Chicago Housing Authority homes over the next Mayor Rahm Emanuel three years. Emanuel incarcerated individuals who said the intention is to help exhave paid their debt and are will- offenders become self-sufficient ing to work hard deserve a sec- and reunite with family members ond chance at success.'' who live in public housing.
If the pilot program works, Emanuel said he will work to permanently lift the restrictions. The event was held at St. Leonard's Ministries, an organization that helps ex-prisoners rebuild their lives. Several former inmates attended and told the mayor of their struggles, the Chicago SunTimes reported. One of them, Alphonso Johnson, now works for the Chicago Transit Authority, which has an apprenticeship program for former inmates. ``My mission is to work hard and provide for my family,'' the newspaper quoted him as saying. ``You don't understand the impact when my wife is sitting there with the bills laid out and I can say, `Hey, let me pay it' ... When you give a man an opportunity to provide for his family, it completes him.'' -AP
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Trumark celebrates the grand opening of Momentum & Velocity India Post News Service
MILPITAS, CA: It's time you accelerated your life to the fullest! This Saturday, April 5, you're invited to the exciting Model Grand Opening of Momentum and Velocity by Trumark Homes, two new neighborhoods coming to new home community Pace in Milpitas. With unique open floor plans, up to 10-foot high ceilings, retractable walls, captivating outdoor spaces and convenient amenities, Pace captures your imagination and offers
strong promises of modern sensibilities. Visit this weekend, tour the breathtaking new model homes and see for yourself how this new community picks up the pace. New homes at Momentum at Pace make space for moving up, growing up and setting the boundaries you value. Here in Milpitas, two innovative three-story floor plans provide room for comfort, entertaining, personal retreats and family gatherings with designs that offer up to 2,497 square feet of living space, up to four bedrooms,
Ecogreen barred from raising money from public MUMBAI: Cracking down on a fraudulent realty investment scheme, Sebi has barred Ecogreen Real Estate, its directors and promoters from mobilizing funds from public investors as well as from launch any new scheme. Preliminary probe by Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) found that the Uttar Pradesh based company was inviting applications to book plots of residential/commercial land under 'LandLinked - One Time Payment Plan' scheme. This plan was in the nature of unauthorized 'Collective Investment Scheme (CIS)'. In an order dated March 26, Sebi said that "it prima facie ap-
tors/promoters have been also been barred from diverting the funds raised from the scheme as well as from disposing of any assets with respect to the plan. Further, Sebi has directed the entities to submit details of amounts mobilized and refunded, among other information. The company and its directors/promoters have been asked to file their replies within 15 days from the date of the order. Sebi had received communication in 2011 regarding an advertisement by Ecogreen on its real-estate scheme. As the company failed to provide any information to the Sebi
Sebi had received communication in 2011 regarding an advertisement by Ecogreen on its real-estate scheme. As the company failed to provide any information to the Sebi regarding its scheme, the market regulator proceeded in the case pears that Ecogreen Real Estate is running a collective investment scheme without obtaining a certificate of registration from Sebi as required under...the CIS Regulations". Accordingly, Sebi has directed Ecogreen and its promoters/ directors not to collect any money from investors and not to launch any new schemes. Besides, the company has been asked to immediately submit the full inventory of assets owned by it out of the amounts collected from the investors under the existing schemes. The company and its direc-
regarding its scheme, the market regulator proceeded in the case with the material available with it including information from Registrar of Companies, Kanpur. It was observed by Sebi, that Ecogreen had invited funds from investors for the "purchase and development of plots" in multiples of Rs 5,000 for a period of 5/10 years. Sebi noted that the activity of fund mobilization by Ecogreen under the scheme with a resultant promise of returns was "in the nature of collective investment scheme". -PTI
up to three-and-one-half baths and two-car side-by-side garages. Momentum is priced from the mid $800,000s. Perfectly suited for your
unique lifestyle, new town homes at Velocity push the boundaries of ordinary expectations. With up to 1,947 square feet, six floor plans deliver the design intellect
In addition to up to four bedrooms and threeand-one-half baths, Velocity presents indoor and outdoor spaces that maximize your inner world and invite your personal expression. Pricing for Velocity starts from $599,000.
that expands to take in your individuality. In addition to up to four bedrooms and three-andone-half baths, Velocity presents indoor and outdoor spaces that maximize your inner world and invite your personal expression. Pricing for Velocity starts from $599,000. Pace is located at 323 Tempo Lane, Milpitas, CA 95035. To learn more about Momentum and Velocity at Pace, please visit TrumarkHomes.com.
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R According to Hindu mythology, this is the place where Lord Rama created a bridge across the sea to Sri Lanka. Lord Shiva too is worshipped in this place
ameshwaram is one of the holiest places in Tamil Nadu region in southern India. The renowned pil grim place is located on a beautiful island in the lower side of India and is separated by a small Pamban channel from Sri Lanka. Every year several people visit the place with intention of offering sacred prayers to Lord Rama. It falls in the Gulf of Mannar and is a peninsula. According to Hindu mythology, this is the place where Lord Rama created a bridge across the sea to Sri Lanka. Lord Shiva too is worshipped in this place. It's a place where Ravana was killed and hence it has a great historical foundation. It is also known as Varanasi of southern India. It has one of the famous Jyotirlings in the place which one would like to worship as a part of Hindu culture. The place has several wonderful temples, which are a great masterpiece of creativity. The place has highest number of wells as well. The place has wonderful sculpture of Lord Rama encarved in several walls of the temples and the statues of the Lord are made with great artistic care. ATTRACTIONS Agnitheertham: People believe that taking bath in Agnitheertham washes away their sins. The temple is constructed facing the eastern direction and there is a large lake in the temple whose water is considered to be holy. Cont’d on page 42
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Rameswaram Lord Rama created a bridge to Lanka here
Cont’d from page 41
Dhanushkodi: Dhanushkodi is a wonderful temple on the southern tip of India and it was completely washed away by the cyclone. The location of the place is wonderful and it being an island is covered by water on all the four sides of it. It is located near the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean
Pooja in temple
on the other side. Gandhamadhana Parvatham: Gandhamadhana Parvatham is the deity of several communities in southern India and the temple of Gandhamadhana is most renowned and worshiped in the southern India. The temple is two storeyed and Lord Rama's feet are imprinted on the chakra placed in the temple. Jada Tirtham: It is the holy place in southern India where god Kapardishvara is worshipped. Jada Tirtham is another small temple within Kaveri Tirtham and it too has its own mythological importance. Jatayu Tirtham: It is the holy temple created in the memory of Jatayu, who was
the most loyal eagle of Rama and who helped Lord Rama at several instances in getting herbs from the mountains. Kothandaramaswamy Temple: It is situated on the island at the southern most tip of India near Bay of Bengal. Indian Ocean covers it from all its sides. There had been several instances of cyclones in the area but the temple stayed intact even in most critical times. Lakshmana Tirtham: It has been constructed in memory of Lakshman, brother of Lord Rama. In order to offer sacred prayers to Lakshmana, the temple has been constructed in Rameshwaram itself which indicates that Lakshman had been given a valuable place in the dynasty of Lord Rama. Rama Tirtham (Gandamadana): It is constructed on the Gandamadhana Parvata. It
Pamban Bridge, Rameswaram
is also called Gandamadana. It is constructed on the island and is considered to be the most sacred pilgrim place in southern India. In this temple there is a charka on which the imprints of Lord Rama have been encarved. Sri Ramanathaswamy Temple: It is a beautiful temple which was created for worshipping Lord Rama and it has been a great pilgrim place for the people who have the wish for achieving salvation in life. The Five-faced Hanuman Temple: Five faceted Hanuman temple is the most renowned temple in Rameshwar. It has mythological evidence where Hanuman showed his profile with five faces. He is believed to be adorned with senthooram at this particular place.
Jada Tirtham
BEST TIME TO VISIT Rameswaram has a tropical climate and can be visited any time of the year. But the
Kothandaramaswamy Temple
Agnitheertham
Inside view of temple
best time to visit is from October to April. HOW TO REACH By Train: Rameshwaram (Mandapan station just 2 km away) is well connected by rail with many South Indian cities. By Air: Madurai is the nearest airport to Rameshwaram, which is located at a distance of 163 km away. International travelers have to get connecting flights from Chennai International airport. By Bus: Tamil Nadu Road Transport Corporation buses connect Rameshwaram with all cities in Tamil Nadu.
Lakshmana Tirtham
Rama Tirtham (Gandamadana)
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Andhra plans developing Andhra begins to woo new beach resorts back foreign visitors HYDERABAD: The Andhra Pradesh government has identified several locations along its 972-km long coastline for developing beach resorts as part of its plans to attract domestic and international tourists. The government decision assumes significance in the backdrop of reports on the potentiality of beach tourism which state that in terms of variety, AP has best beaches not only in the country but in entire world and they offer prospects for tourism economy not only in India but beyond too. Though beaches in Goa and Kerala are quite popular among foreigners, Andhra Pradesh offers wide variety and tourist friendly beaches in the country, sources in the tourism department said. About 50 such beaches have been identified along AP's coastline and the potential is to develop 50 beach resorts, they said. These locations will be transformed into international tourist destinations by developing necessary infrastructure. "We are contemplating to develop beaches meeting the standards of foreign tourist visitors," they said. "We are actively focused on the development of beach resorts as the state has the second longest
coastline in the country after Gujarat. The potential is immense and vast," a senior official of the tourism department told PTI here. Only four beach resorts have been developed in the state over the decades at Visakhapatnam district and its surrounding areas. "We have been concentrating on the development of beach tourism with help of the central and state government funding," the
months, tourism officials said. "Beach resorts at Baruva in Srikakulam will be opened by midApril and at Ramayapatnam in Prakasam district it will be ready by end of April. We have one beach resort in Suryalanka near Bapatla in Guntur district, we are developing phase-II there and works at Chintapalle in Vizianagaram district are in the final stages of completion.
official said adding that they had conceived plans for development of nine new beach resorts between Srikakulam and Nellore districts in the last two years. Out of these nine beaches, two at Kalingapatnam and Mayapadu are complete and the remaining seven will be ready in next four
Chintapalle and Kakinada in East Godavari district will be ready by June along with a beach in Nellore to be ready by June," they said. Efforts to settle the land issues (for a beach resort) will be revived in West Godavari once the election code is over, the officials said. -PTI
France remains world's most visited country LONDON: France remains the world's most visited country with more than 83 million international tourist arrivals in 2012, according to latest figures released by the United Nations World Tourism Organization. When it comes to attracting visitors France has no shortage of draws - Alpine ski resorts, Medi-
terranean beaches, food, wine and culture clearly hold great appeal. However, countries like Bangladesh (just 0.003 tourists per head, or 0.29 per cent of the population), India and Pakistan (both 0.005 tourists per head) lag far behind. India may have received more than six and a half million tourists in 2012 but its population of more
than 1.2 billion dwarfs its visitor numbers, The Telegraph reported. When it comes to tourists as a percentage of population, one country stands head and shoulders above the rest. With a population of a little more than 800, Vatican City is the world's smallest independent state. It is also the epicenter of a religion with an estimated 1.2 billion followers worldwide, and is a site of great religious, historical, cultural and political significance. The Vatican Museums alone received nearly five-and-a-half million visitors last year, so it comes as no surprise to find it punches way above its weight in the tourists per head stakes, the Telegraph report said. In (a distant) second place is Andorra, which received more than 2.2 million tourists in 2012, despite having a population of fewer than 80,000.-PTI
HYDERABAD: The pro- topped the list again in 2012 with longed turmoil over the state bi- 20.72 crore arrivals, but did not furcation issue has cast a clear make it to the top 10 states in spell on the tourism sector in receiving foreign travelers as Andhra Pradesh, with arrival of only 2,92,822 foreigners visited foreign visitors dipping drasti- AP. cally over the last three years. With the statehood issue now From a peak of 7.6 lakh in 2009, settled, Andhra Pradesh Tourism foreign tourist arrival reduced by is gearing up to enhance and inmore than half last year with just crease the number of internaabout three lakh visitors enter- tional arrivals by showcasing the ing the state, a tourism official state through various tourism said here. promotional activities, the offiBut for the two-week long cial said. Convention on Bio-Technology "Domestic tourist arrivals in in October 2012, international Andhra Pradesh continued to retourist arrival in the state in gen- main high despite the series of eral and Hyderabad in particular agitations by pro and antiwould have been much less, as Telangana activists in both the figures indicate. regions," he said. The "advisories" issued by "Temple-town Tirupati led the different countries asking their inbound domestic tourist (pilcitizens to stay away from Hyderabad cer- "Domestic tourist arrivals in tainly hit tourist in- Andhra Pradesh continued flows into the state capital that normally to remain high despite the draws huge visitors series of agitations by pro every year. "Foreign tourist and anti-Telangana activists arrival was affected in both the regions" since 2009 because of the perceived danger in Hyderabad, which grims) flow into AP followed by necessarily was not there. Inter- Hyderabad and it was consisnational tourists were concerned tently on the rise even during the about law and order situation agitation period," he added. and safety aspects. And they go AP Tourism started with the by the advisories their govern- Hyderabad Travel Meet to boost ments issue," a senior official of the tourist potential of the tourism department told PTI. Hyderabad and to create a sense With the bifurcation issue al- of confidence among the tourmost settled, foreign tourists' in- ists and it has given a very good flux is likely to pick up from this response internationally, the year, he said. tourism official said. "In order to woo back the for"We are going to make our eign tourists, AP Tourism is pro- presence felt in all travel marts jecting itself aggressively. across the world in the near fuHyderabad and other parts of the ture and we expect it to bring in state are now peaceful and we lot of foreign tourists arrival," he expect the foreign tourist visits said. to immensely to go up from While 15.31 crore domestic here," he said. tourists and 2,68,736 foreign travHowever, the agitations over elers visited the state in 2011 as statehood issue did not impact against 15.57 crore and 3,22,825 the flow of domestic tourist vis- respectively in 2010, foreign tourits which registered a strong ist arrivals in Andhra Pradesh growth during the same period, was close to 3 lakh in 2013. sources in the state tourism de"We expect the present figpartment said. ures (of international tourists) to Andhra Pradesh topped the more than double in the next five country in attracting 127 million years when I think it will regain domestic tourists from across the that level (the peak of 7.6 lakh country in 2009 while the state tourists in 2009) in both ranked seventh in terms of inter- Telangana and residuary Andhra national tourist arrivals with Pradesh state. We are planning 7,60,000 visitors. to regain that," the official said. Interestingly, Andhra Both Hyderabad and Pradesh, which remained the fa- Visakhapatnam are expected to lead vorite among domestic tourists, the foreign tourist arrivals.-PTI
In Brief Dad freed after girl talks to Pope on immigration LOS ANGELES: After a 10-yearold California girl traveled to the Vatican to plead with Pope Francis for help as her father faced deportation, the man was released later on bond from immigration detention. Mario Vargas was freed from a detention facility in Louisiana after he posted $5,000 bond. A relative who saw the girl on television pleading with the Pope during a public audience helped with the funding, said his wife, Lola Vargas. ``When she left, her wish was that her father would be home,'' she told The Associated Press in Spanish. ``Thank God she is going to get her wish.'' Mario Vargas' release came after his daughter Jersey, of Panorama City, California, addressed the pope as part of a California delegation that traveled to Rome to urge the Vatican to prod President Barack Obama on immigration reform. The girl and a teenager went as part of the 16-member group to represent the American children of immigrant parents who are afraid their families will be divided by deportation. The president and the pontiff met for the first time recently.-AP
Immigrant family eager for larger home
IOWA CITY, Iowa: The war is long behind them, as are their days living in forests and refugee campus, but life for Abdineko Mausa and Andjela Uredi's family of 12 remains a difficult one. For nearly two years, the Congolese family - with 10 children ranging between 2 months to 21 have lived elbow-to-elbow in a tiny Johnson County apartment. Some sleep on the living room floor, crammed between the couches and television, while the younger children sleep in a crowded bedroom with their parents. And, with a single bathroom, mornings before the school bus comes are a free-for-all for the shower and mirror. ``You have to wait - it's so hard,'' 19-year-old Situ, one of three members of the family who attend West High, said of the long line for the bathroom. Said Emmanuel, 16: ``It's very difficult to live here because it's a small house. Like me, I'm 16 right now - I have to sleep on the floor every day.'' The Iowa City Press-Citizen reports that will change this fall, however, when the family moves into a newly built six-bedroom, two-bathroom home - the largest ever constructed by Iowa Valley Habitat for Humanity. -AP
Immigration 44 India Post
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April 4, 2014
Wichita immigration mural desecrated again WICHITA, Kan.: A Wichita mural that declares ``Immigration Is Beautiful'' has been vandalized for the second time in five weeks. The mural depicts a map of the United States, with images of the Statue of Liberty and two people wrapped in the U.S. and Mexican flags. It's located outside a store in the northern part of Wichita.-AP
Abdo Hizam denied citizenship 'due to Department error'
I
magine for a moment that, since you were nine, your parents had told you that you were a U.S. citizen. And not just told you: your father filed papers with the U.S. government, and obtained official proof of your citizenship. You grew up in the United States from age nine onward as a U.S. citizen, attended school and college here, and got a job here. Imagine further that more than twenty years later, the government suddenly told you that your parents had been wrong: you were not a U.S. citizen after all, and thus you had no right to be here. Surely, you would think after recovering from your initial shock, this must be because your father did something improper back when you were a child. Perhaps he had been lying to the government, and to you, all along? Perhaps the papers he filed with the government to obtain proof of your citizenship were fraudulent? Surely he must have done something wrong, for the government to take away your citizenship after all these years. Surely they
DAVID A. ISAACSON
would not simply take away the citizenship you had always thought you had, unless there were some fault on your family's side. But if that was what you
Hizam, who the State Department decided in 2011 was not actually a U.S. citizen, even though they had repeatedly documented him as a citizen since 1990. According to the State Department, it was the
Abdo Hizam in his family’s store in the Bronx. He was awarded citizenship as a child but found it in jeopardy after he applied to bring his wife and children to the United States from Yemen
thought, it is you who would be wrong. This is the story of Abdo
government, not Hizam or his father, who made the mistake; and
yet it is Hizam, not the government, who must pay the price. On March 12, 2014, the Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, in the case of Hizam v. Kerry, ruled that the State Department was right, and that Hizam has no legal remedy. Abdo Hizam was born in 1980. As recounted in a 2012 New York Times article, his father, a naturalized U.S. citizen, worked at that time at a Chrysler plant in Michigan, while his mother was living in Yemen. In 1990, as explained in the Second Circuit's opinion, Hizam's father submitted an application for a consular report of birth abroad ("CRBA") for his son, which even the government agrees was entirely truthful, and which was granted, documenting Hizam as a U.S. citizen. A CRBA has "the same force and effect as proof of United States citizenship as certificates of naturalization or of citizenship issued by the Attorney General or by a court having naturalization jurisdiction" according to 22 U.S.C. §2705. Cont'd on Page 45
Chavez biopic shown to 1,000 Calif. farm workers DELANO, Calif.: In California's fertile Central Valley, immigrant workers pick produce sold worldwide. They're mostly Spanish speakers who work long hours in the dirt and sun - not your typical crowd for a Hollywood movie premiere. But last week, they were the guests of honor at a special screening of ``Cesar Chavez,'' the new biopic. More than 1,000 farm workers sat in folding chairs outside the union hall where the first contracts were signed in 1970 between those who owned the fields and those who worked them. An inflatable movie screen stood upfront. The spirit of Cesar Chavez was everywhere. Directed by Mexico's Diego Luna, ``Cesar Chavez'' follows the late civil rights leader from his first
efforts to organize farm workers in 1962 to that historic 1970 signing. Before the contract, laborers
rooms or shade. The union Chavez founded with fellow activist Dolores Huerta became the United
Farm workers from California's Central Valley wave the United Farm Workers flag at a special screening of the film "Cesar Chavez" held at The 40 Acres, the former UFW headquarters in Delano, Calif.
worked the fields for pennies an hour and without breaks, bath-
Farm Workers, which continues to seek better wages and working con-
ditions for field laborers two decades after Chavez's death in 1993. Chartered buses brought screening guests from six Central California counties to The Forty Acres in Delano, Calif., the union's original headquarters, now a National Historic Landmark. Some were veterans of the strikes and boycotts Chavez led in the 1960s; others struggle today to organize under conditions not unlike those he fought against. Many held red flags and wore T-shirts with the United Farm Workers logo and famous motto, ``Si se puede!'' ``This film is about you. It's about the people who feed this country,'' Luna told the crowd in Spanish. ``It celebrates all those who today continue fighting.'' Cont'd on Page 45
Immigration Post
April 4, 2014
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Abdo Hizam denied citizenship 'due to Department error' Cont'd from Page 44
Also in 1990, Hizam's maternal grandparents, who like his father lived in Michigan, visited Yemen and brought Hizam back to the United States. After moving to the United States with his grandparents, Hizam grew up here and built his life here. As the Second Circuit explained: After receiving a CRBA and passport, Hizam traveled to the United States to live with his grandparents. Hizam attended elementary, middle and high school in Dearborn, Michigan. He became fluent in English and did well in school, where he was a member of his high school's swim team. Hizam began working while in high school, and worked two jobs to support himself while attending college in the United States. He graduated from Davenport University in 2003 with a degree in business administration. He eventually moved to the Bronx, New York, to live with his brothers. During his residence in the United States from 1990 through 2002, his passport was renewed twice without incident. In 2002, Hizam traveled to Yemen, where he married, and subsequently had two children. Between 2002 and 2009, Hizam traveled back and forth regularly between the United States and Yemen, where his wife and children reside. At the time he commenced this litigation, Hizam worked at the family business, Moe's Deli, in New
York. He is the primary caretaker for one of his brothers, a minor, and is pursuing a master's in business administration at Mercy College. When Hizam in 2009 sought to obtain CRBAs and U.S. passports for his own children, the State Department began a review of his citizenship status that ended in the cancellation of his passport and CRBA on the ground that he was not a U.S. citizen. As the Second Circuit explained:
mentation for you," and "there is no evidence of fraud on your part." It concluded that "[u]nfortunately . . . the Department of State lacks authority to create a remedy that would in some way confer U.S. citizenship on anyone absent a statutory basis for doing so." Subsequent letters from the Department of State informed Hizam that his CRBA had been cancelled, and his passport revoked, and requested that he return those documents,
Hizam began working while in high school, and worked two jobs to support himself while attending college in the United States. He graduated from Davenport University in 2003 with a degree in business administration. In 2009, Hizam applied for CRBAs and U.S. passports for his two children at the U.S. Embassy in Sana'a, Yemen. U.S. officials at the embassy told Hizam there was an issue with his passport, and retained his passport for about three weeks. After his passport was returned, Hizam returned to the United States. In April 2011, while Hizam was in the United States, the State Department notified him via letter that his CRBA and passport were wrongly issued "due to Department error." The letter stated that while "[t]his error was evident from your CRBA application[,] there is no indication that your father fraudulently obtained citizenship docu-
which he did in May 2011. The problem, it appears, was that Hizam's father's CRBA application for him had been adjudicated based on the wrong version of the relevant statute. Generally, the law governing the acquisition of citizenship by a child is that in effect at the time of the child's birth. The law had changed between the time of Hizam's birth and the time that his father applied for his CRBA (in 1986 to be precise), however, and the consular officer seems to have applied the new version of the statute, in effect at the time of the application, rather than the old version, in effect at the time of Hizam's birth. To quote again from the Second Circuit's opinion:
Chavez biopic shown to 1,000 Calif. farm workers Cont'd from Page 44
The Lionsgate release stars Michael Pena as Chavez, America Ferrera as his wife, Helen, and Rosario Dawson as Huerta. John Malkovich, also a producer of the film, plays a villain grape grower. The Cesar Chavez Foundation, United Farm Workers and the studio sponsored the outdoor screening, which also included a barbecue dinner for all 1,200 guests. The special premiere, dubbed in Spanish for the occasion, concluded a pre-release promotional tour that stopped at the White House for a
screening with President Obama, who adopted the union's motto translated, Yes, we can! - for his 2008 presidential campaign. For Paul F. Chavez, one of Cesar Chavez's eight children and head of his namesake foundation, the screening for farm workers was the most significant of all. ``It was good to hear the President's comments ... about the inspiration he's taken from my father's life. Then we were in Hollywood with a red carpet event, and that's fun with all the movie stars. But this is really meaningful,'' Paul Chavez said. ``To come
back where the work began, where so much history happened, then to be with people that work on a daily basis to put food on our table, it's heartwarming.'' The Forty Acres is about two miles from where Cesar Chavez began his movement: The house where he lived with his family, the Filipino Hall where he announced his first fast, Delano High School where the farmworkers got support from Sen. Robert Kennedy, and the intersection where police tried to stop Chavez and 75 other strikers on their 250-mile march to Sacramento in 1966.-AP
Hizam's father truthfully stated in the [CRBA] application that he had arrived in the United States in 1973, and was physically present in the United States for approximately seven years at the time of Hizam's birth in October 1980. . . . . At the time of Hizam's birth, the child of a United States citizen born outside of the United States was eligible for citizenship if the parent was present in the United States for at least 10 years at the time of the child's birth. 8 U.S.C. ยง 1401(g) (Supp. III 1980). However, the law had changed by the time Hizam's father sought a CRBA on Hizam's behalf. The amended law required the parent to be present in the United States for just five years. 8 U.S.C. ยง 1401(g). It appears that the consular officer erroneously applied the five-year rule in granting Hizam a CRBA.
Hizam sued for the return of his CRBA, and won in the district court, but was rebuffed at the Second Circuit. The Court of Appeals concluded that the statute authorizing the State Department to revoke CRBAs was not impermissibly retroactive, and, perhaps more startlingly, that the State Department's long delay in correcting its error, even though undeniably prejudicial to Hizam, did not entitle him to any remedy despite the compelling equities of his case. As the Court explained: In the alternative, Hizam argues that the State Department should be precluded from revoking his CRBA under a laches theory, because the State Department unreasonably delayed revoking the CRBA, and Hizam was prejudiced by the undue delay. Cont'd on Page 46
PRADEEP ROY-SINGH B.A. LL.B. M.B.A. J.D. Attorney-at-Law
Former Assistant Stateย s Attorney
Civil & Criminal Litigation Felonies, Misdemeanors, Inc DUI 1 Personal Injury, Business, Divorce etc. 1 Property Tax for Commercial Properties 1 1
http://www.proy-singh.com
2335 W. Devon Ave., Suite 204, Tel: 773-381-1820 Chicago, IL 60659
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Abdo Hizam denied citizenship 'due to Department error' Cont'd from Page 45
Laches is an equitable defense that requires proof of lack of diligence by the party against whom the defense is asserted, and prejudice to the party asserting the defense. See Costello v. United States , 365 U.S. 265, 281 82 (1961). The State Department certainly lacked diligence in correcting its error, as the correction did not occur for 21 years, during which time Hizam used his CRBA to renew his passport twice. And Hizam was certainly prejudiced by the State Department's delay in correcting its error, because, as he delineates in his brief, there were several other avenues to citizenship that he could have pursued but are now foreclosed to him. The equities in this case overwhelmingly favor Hizam. Indeed, even the State Department recognizes "the considerable equities of his case." Despite sympathy for Hizam's position, however, we conclude that courts lack the authority to exercise our equitable powers to
naturalization of a child if, among other things, the parent had been physically present in the United States for the period of five years, two after the age of fourteen, that would be required to transmit citizenship automatically to a child born after 1986. See See 8 U.S.C. §1433(a) (5) (1999). (Under current law, INA §322 applies only to children residing outside the United States with their U.S. citizen parents, likely because under INA §320, a child under the age of 18 who is residing inside the United States as a lawful permanent resident in the legal and physical custody of a U.S. citizen parent becomes a U.S. citizen automatically, without the need for a separate application other than to provide evidence of the status they have already come to possess.) Or, if the problem had been discovered after Hizam turned 18 but before he turned 21, his father could perhaps have sponsored him for lawful permanent residence as the immediate relative of a U.S. citizen.
And Hizam was certainly prejudiced by the State Department's delay in correcting its error, because, as he delineates in his brief, there were several other avenues to citizenship that he could have pursued but are now foreclosed to him. achieve a just result here. Well settled case law bars a court from exercising its equity powers to naturalize citizens. See Pangilinan, 486 U.S. at 885; Fedorenko v. United States, 449 U.S. 490, 517 (1981); Wong Kim Ark, 169 U.S. at 702. The courts lack authority to provide Hizam with the relief he seeks. The Court quoted the State Department's representation that it "has brought the matter to the attention of [USCIS], and will continue to support other lawful means to provide relief to Hizam, including a private bill in Congress should one be introduced." Id. at 22. If no private bill is introduced, there is no obvious route back to citizenship or even lawful permanent residence for Hizam, absent further factual developments not evident from the Second Circuit decision. It is worth pausing at this point to discuss some of the "several other avenues to citizenship" that the Court acknowledged Hizam "could have pursued but are now foreclosed to him." Had Hizam and his father been notified of the problem before Hizam turned 18, for example, Hizam's father could have sought expedited naturalization of his son under INA §322, 8 U.S.C. §1433. That provision, as it existed in the years before 2000, allowed a U.S. citizen parent to apply for expedited
See INA §201(b) (2) (A) (i) (describing "children . . . of U.S. citizens") as immediate relatives; INA §101(b) (1) (describing a "child" in part as "an unmarried person under twenty-one years of age"). Now, however, neither of those options are available. One small consolation for Mr. Hizam is that he likely qualifies as inspected and admitted to the United States, should he in the future, for example, enter into a bona fide marriage with a U.S. citizen and seek adjustment of status under INA §245(a) as an immediate relative of that U.S. citizen. Under the rule of Matter of F-, 9 I&N Dec. 54 (Reg. Comm'r 1960, Asst. Comm'r 1960), one who innocently enters the United States under a claim of U.S. citizenship that turns out to be incorrect is inspected and admitted, even though one who enters under a knowing false claim of U.S. citizenship is not. The BIA recently restated "the long-standing rule that an alien who enters the United States by falsely claiming United States citizenship effectively eludes the procedural regularity of inspection by an immigration officer." Matter of Pinzon, 26 I& N Dec. 189, 191 (BIA 2013). But since Matter of Pinzon cited Matter of F- with approval, see Matter of Pinzon, 26 I&N Dec. at 191, the best reading of Matter of Pinzon appears to
be that "falsely claiming United States citizenship" within the meaning of that case implies doing so intentionally, knowing the claim to be false. This would be consistent with the conclusion of the State Department and the DHS General Counsel that inadmissibility under INA §212(a)(6)(C)(ii)(I), which refers to "Any alien who falsely represents, or has falsely represented himself or herself to be a citizen of the United States for any purpose or benefit under this Act . . . or any other Federal or State law," applies only to "a knowingly false claim", as explained at Note 11(b.)(1) of Volume 9, section 40.63 of the State Department's Foreign Affairs Manual. In normal English usage, we would not describe someone who says something which they fully believed to be true as having "falsely" claimed it-rather, we might say that they had done so "incorrectly", or "erroneously". An innocent but erroneous claim to U.S. citizenship is neither a ground of inadmissibility, nor a basis for invoking the exception to inspection and admission recognized by Matter of Pinzon. Thus, it can still qualify as an inspection and admission under Matter of F.Still, to say to someone in Hizam's position that he has been inspected and admitted, but has no right to remain in the United States unless he may seek adjustment of status as the immediate relative of a U.S. citizen, is extremely harsh. Being well over the age of 21, and married, he is no longer the immediate relative of his U.S. citizen father. See INA §201(b) (2) (A) (i); INA §101(b) (1). And because Hizam's father believed him to be a U.S. citizen, he had no reason to file a petition for his son before his son turned 21 and got married. See INA §201(f) (1) (providing that age for purposes of qualifying as an immediate relative is determined on the date of filing of the petition). As noted above, had the State Department corrected its error any time within more than 10 years after the error was made, Hizam could easily have become a Lawful Permanent Resident; now he cannot. And had the State Department corrected its error less than 8 or so years after it was made, Hizam could easily have become a U.S. citizen under INA §322; now he cannot do that either. Hizam's father could theoretically file a petition for him under the Family Third Preference for married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, as established by INA §203(a)(3), but the latest Department of State Visa Bulletin indicates a wait time of well over ten years before an immigrant
visa number is available based on such a petition. (To be precise, the Visa Bulletin indicates that those who had petitions filed on their behalf before July 15, 2003, should be able to seek immigrant visas based on those petitions in April of 2014.) If the decision in Hizam v. Kerry is not overturned (either by the Second Circuit sitting in banc or by the Supreme Court), Congress should give serious consideration to addressing this problem by legislation. With respect to Hizam himself, the problem can perhaps as the State Department suggested be solved by a private bill, granting him citizenship or at least lawful permanent residence. But the problem is a broader one. Those who, through no fault of their own or of their parents, are incorrectly told by the U.S. government that they are U.S. citizens, and who in reliance on that advice live in the United States and/or forego other opportunities which would exist to gain citizen-
ter the child reached the age of seventeen years. (Some margin for error before the age of eighteen would have to be allowed, since being advised a day before your child's eighteenth birthday that he or she was not actually a U.S. citizen, as you had previously supposed, would not provide sufficient time to get the child sworn in before age eighteen.) Alternatively, if Congress is reluctant to allow expedited naturalization of someone in Hizam's position who is over the age of 18, it should amend the registry statute, INA §249, which currently allows the creation of a record of lawful admission for permanent residence of persons of good moral character who have resided in the United States since prior to January 1, 1972. That statute could be altered to include persons of good moral character who have entered the United States after January 1, 1972, on a U.S. passport which was issued to them without any misrep-
If Congress will not allow favorable determinations of U.S. citizenship to stand when they are made due to government error, it could at least amend INA §322 to give those who miss their opportunity due to such error another chance. ship or lawful permanent residence, should also be eligible for U.S. citizenship, or at least for lawful permanent residence. If Congress will not allow favorable determinations of U.S. citizenship to stand when they are made due to government error, it could at least amend INA §322 to give those who miss their opportunity to naturalize as children due to such error another chance. Currently, that statute provides in relevant part that a parent who is a citizen of the United States and meets the relevant residence requirements may apply for the naturalization of a child who is "under the age of eighteen years," INA §322(a)(3), and "is residing outside of the United States in the legal and physical custody of the applicant," INA §322(a)(4). This author would suggest the addition of a new subsection of §322, providing that a person who is over the age of eighteen years (and who therefore may not be in anyone's custody) may be naturalized under INA §322, upon appropriate application by that person, if at some time prior to the person reaching the age of eighteen years his or her parent was advised by the U.S. government, without any misrepresentation on the parent's part, that their child was already a U.S. citizen, and this erroneous advice was not corrected until af-
resentation by them or anyone acting on their behalf, but who are later determined not to be U.S. citizens. If even this remedy is considered too extreme, then at the very least, INA §201(f)(1) should be amended to state that a child's age, for purposes of qualifying as an immediate relative, is determined either (A) on the date of filing of a petition by that child's parent, or (B) on the date the child or the child's parent is informed by the U.S. government, due not to any misrepresentation by either of them but to government error, that the child is a U.S. citizen (and that there is therefore no point in filing a petition). This would not help Mr. Hizam himself, due to his marriage, but it could help others in similar positions. What should not happen, in any case, is for the law to remain the way it evidently is today, according to the Second Circuit's decision. It is unfair and outrageous to place someone in a position where, through no fault of their own or their parents, they can spend decades in the United States under the impression that they are a U.S. citizen, and then be told that they actually lack not only U.S. citizenship but any straightforward way of even gaining the legal right to reside in this country. http://blog.cyrusmehta.com
Datebook
April 4, 2014
NEW JERSEY
NEW YORK Upcoming
Upcoming Sat, Apr 12 • Gujarati Drama “Marriage Fixing
Sun, Apr 13 • Wife Bahu Cute Hoi - Gujarati Drama
Venue: Plainfield High School, 920, Park Avenue, Plainfield, NJ 07060 Time: 6:30pm
Venue: Hindu Auditorium, 143-09 Holly Ave, Flushing, NY 11355 Time: 5:30 pm Contact: 347-513-8526
Sun, Apr 13
Sun, Apr 13 • Punjabi Virsa 2014 - NY
• Hriday Sandhya in South Jersey near Philadelphia Venue: Harrington Middle School Theater - South Jersey, NJ, 514 Mt Laurel Rd, Mt Laurel, NJ 08054 Time: 2:00 pm Contact: 6092062310
Sun, Apr 13 • Nadanap Peru Vizha Venue: North Brunswick High School, 98 Raider Road, North Brunswick, NJ 08902 Time: 3: 00 pm
Venue: Queens College Colden Center, 6530 Kissena Blvd,Horace Harding Time : 6:00 pm Contact : 718-610-9799
Fri, May 2
• An Evening Of Indian Classic Music Venue: New York Insight Meditation Center, 28 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001 Time: 08:00 pm Contact : 718-672-3211
India Post 47
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NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Upcoming
Upcoming
Sat, Apr 5 • Sur Mandir Geeton Ka Safar - A musical Journey Venue: Cabrillo High School Auditorium, 2001 Santa Fe Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90810 Time: 5 pm
Valley Meditation Center has organized a special talk on "Make Mind Your Best Friend" Venue: 821 Anacapa Court, Milpitas, CA 95035 Time : 10:00 am to 12:00 noon Contact: www.bksiliconvalley.org
June 5th to 8th • Ugadi Celebrations Prana Prathishta Mahotsavam of Anjaneya Swami, Ayyappa Swami, Durga Matha, Nava Graha's and Sri Kanyaka Parameswari (Vasavi Matha) Venue: Hindu Temple of St Louis, 725 Weidman Road, St. Louis, MO 63011 Time: 6 pm Contact: (636) - 230-3300
Sat, Apr 12 • Rock De Boomm 14 (A Maitri Benefit) Venue: Mexican Heritage Plaza, 1700 Alum Rock Ave., San Jose, CA 95116 Time: 11:00 am Contact: 415-410-3768
Upcoming
Sun, Apr 20 • Raaga Lahari - Telugu Music Concert
• J K Yog Satsang and Bal Mukund Hindi Classes are held every 2nd and 4rth Sunday of Month
Venue: India Community Center, 525 Los
Chicago Satsang Information: J K Yog, Chicago - Swami Mukundananda Venue: Clarion Inn/Waterford Banquets, Board Room, 933 South Riverside Drive, Elmhurst, IL 60126 Time: 3:30pm-5:30pm Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630-561-4807 Website: www.jkyog.org
Coches Street, Milpitas, CA 95035 Time: 5:30 pm
Contact: 626-354-5036
April 5,6 • Brahma Kumaris Silicon
ILLINOIS
Sat, May 3 • Udit Narayan - Alka Yagnik Live In Concert Venue: Jordan High School Auditorium, 6500 Atlantic Ave, Long Beach, CA 90805 Time: 6:00 pm Contact: 310-715-3030
ATLANTA Upcoming Sat, Apr 12 • TAGG Ugadi 2014 Celebration
1st and 3rd Sunday of Month • Chicago Children's Bal Mukund Character Building Program and Hindi Literacy Classes
Venue: Vogelei Center, 650 W. Higgins Road, Hoffmann Estates, IL 60192 (Next to Nissan Dealership) Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630-561-4807 Website: www.jkyog.org/bal-mukund
Venue: Ahimsa Hall ,Vedic Center, 520 Bethel Rd, Mauldin, SC 29662 Time: 4:00 pm
Sun, Apr 16 • Alka Yagnik Udit Narayan 100 Years Of Celebration Venue: SAtlanta Symphony Hall, 1280
Sun, Apr 13
• Music Program For Blind Foundation Of India Venue: Avery Coonley Performing Arts Center 1400 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove, IL 60515 Time : 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm Contact: 630-548-5531
Peachtree Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30303 Time: 9:00 pm
Mondays and Fridays
Sat, Apr 19 • Vaisakhi Celebration 2014
• Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes Where: Metropolitan Asian Family Services
Venue: Ashiana Global Mall, 5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd, Norcross, GA 30071 Time: 7:00pm
Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL, Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Contact: 773-465-3105
48 India Post
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Shilpa Shetty along with her 'Dishkiyaoon' actors Harman Baweja and Ayesha Khanna walked the ramp for designer Tarun Tahiliani at the Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week
April 4, 2014
Bollywood 'Queen' Kangana Ranaut walked the ramp for designer Namrata Joshipura on the final day of the Wills lifestyle Fashion Week in New Delhi on March 30
Rinku's deep colors
D NEW DELHI: The fashion week at Pragati Maidan kickstarted with a Bollywood show as master couturier Tarun Tahiliani opened the event with an interesting collection of asymmetrical ensembles in shades of ivory, black, deep emerald and ruby red. Set against a grand backdrop of circular metallic installations and to the beats of live Rajasthani folk music, the cherry on the icing was actress Shilpa Shetty, who cascaded down the ramp in a multi-hued silk off-shoulder blouse, billowing lehenga skirt and gold choker necklace. The 38-year-old looked fitter than ever and was later accompanied by upcoming movie Dishkiyaoon stars Harman Baweja, who sported a black suit, and Ayesha Khanna, who looked gorgeous in a black pre-stitched sari. After she took a bow on stage, actress Alia Bhatt, standing on hot pink towering heels, opened the show for designer friend Masaba Gupta. With her hair neatly tied in a ponytail, Alia looked stunning in a muslin dress with black and grey horizontal striped sleeves. Masaba's collection tells how to wear saris in different ways. Some were teamed up with leggings and a few had plaited pallus. She majorly used cotton. Actress Kangana Ranaut was unable to move forward smoothly as the showstopper for designer
Namrata Joshipura at the grand finale of Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week. With her curly locks tied up, Kangana made her entry in a strapless floor sweeping black gown with metallic embellishment on the side. Just after taking a few steps, one could notice her struggling with her gown created by Joshipura. Nevertheless, Kangana gradually walked on the LED lit runway. After stumbling a few times, she slightly lifted her gown up with both hands to avoid herself from falling on the stage. Despite the mishap, Kangana was in some way delighted to be back on the fashion runway. "It is nice to be here. Many years after Fashion I am getting to walk on the ramp. I was a fashion disaster in Queen and am a fashion victim in Revolver Rani. I love getting dressed and looking good for a change. I like doing shows," said the actress, who will be soon seen in Revolver Rani. And if it's as chic as Joshipura's show at the fashion week, anyone would feel honored to be a part of it. The show had a disc jockey and a drummer playing in coordination and before the models' entry, a few dancers in reflective suits, which matched the theme of the collection, gave an interesting performance.
esigner Rinku Sobti unveiled her AW'14 collection at the fashion show. Her AW'14 collection is all about deep colors, pretty patterns around necklines created in macrame. The Term Macrame is derived from a 13th Century Arabic weaving term. It means the art of tying knots into strings. Macrame has been reinvented by incorporating it in a contemporary form. This collection is really all about textile art which has a handcrafted warmth. The collection consists of collars, neck pieces, jackets created by using various forms of knots. The yarn used is Jersey. The embellished look dismisses the fact of macrame being boring. In fact the textural embellished elements lend an artful look to the A/ W 2014 collection.
Alia Bhatt
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Ghalib outshines disciples at Urdu poetry session RAS H. SIDDIQUI
Ashraf Habibullah recites while Mrs Hamida and Adnan Malik listen
MILPITAS, CA: Every language has its own colorful and unique history. While few (besides the experts) can explain how a particular linguistic pattern emerged or how it caught widespread imagination with a high degree of accuracy, we can attribute its wide following to the work of masters. South-Asia is home to many languages and each has a great deal of pride associated with it and can boast about many famous icons. Urdu is one such language and together with its sister language Hindi (and it's possible many other cousins) has not defined geography or even ethnicity. It came to be in northern India and is spoken or understood by a now worldwide Diaspora from its area of origin or widespread use in India and Pakistan plus small pockets in Bangladesh. And if one approaches almost anyone associated with this language the iconic pen-name Ghalib stands out and is bound to be revered. An afternoon program aptly promoted as "Dabistan-e-Ghalib" was held at the ICC facility in Milpitas, California recently to the delight of the approximately 300 people present. For those who did not catch the "Dabistan" (School) part of the title, the name Ghalib
was attraction enough. And one could not be certain about the direction that this literary afternoon would take because Ghalib is probably the most wellknown poet that the Urdu language has produced to date. And the verses that he wrote over 150 years ago have gained so much traction over time that millions know them by heart today and recite them often. Baazi-cha-aie-Atfal Hai Dunia Mere Aage is one such poetic work which is often recited whole or segments remains embedded in our consciousness. Few would have thought then that an Urdu poet who passed on from this world on February 15, 1869 in Delhi would establish such a strong literary presence far beyond India that one day he would be appreciated as far away as Northern California, and that an engineering software company named Computers & Structures Inc. would be sponsoring the event! The point of this long introduction was that although Ghalib's students were (and still are) im-
mensely talented and that while this event tried its best to focus on two of them namely Salik and Majrooh, it was difficult to concentrate on their work. In spite of the hard work by all the presenters during this segment of ICC Series "Yaad-e-Raftgan", it was distractive at best to concentrate on any poetry of the Shaagirds while their Ustad's (Ghalib's) work was either interspersed within or concurrently presented by them. Full credit goes to Mrs. Hamida Banu-Chopra, who arranged this scholarly meet and to Adnan Malik for the Sadaarat of this Mehfil. And all the presenters including Almas, Abhay, Ghazala, Aftab, Joydeep, Vanbha and Salman deserve a big round of applause along with Anil Chopra
Mrs Hamida Banu-Chopra, organizer of Urdu event
in the Bay Area and beyond has been supportive of such literary activity as the Urdu Academy here has also been active for quite some time now, collectively mindful of the fact that the beauty of the Urdu language should be shared by all. In conclusion here one can observe that it is easy to appreciate
Audience at event
(with his wife's permission) and last but not least Ashraf Habibullah for presenting the most illuminating (or even illuminated) version of Ghalib's poetry that this scribe has ever heard or witnessed. These continuing events put together by Mrs. Hamida Chopra held at the ICC have now gained regional attention as Urdu enthusiasts from as far away as Sacramento attended this gathering. The South-Asian community here
a Dia-lamp or a Mashal in the moonlight, but that same effect is not pronounced or as impressive when a bright sun is shining! At this event we felt the warmth but not the light of the works of Majrooh and Salik, as Ghalib being the poetic sun stood out and remained overwhelming.
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David won't let Varun marry
arun Dhawan may think that his father David Dhawan doesn't know his feelings for him, but in reality he does, as Varun's mother shares it all with her husband. David finds his son naughty, grounded and talented, but under no circumstance will he let his son get married soon, as he believes that Varun needs to be married to his profession right now. On being asked about Varun's marriage plans, David immediately said, 'Salman Khan ab tak shaadi kiya kya? So how can Varun? He can get married once Salman gets married.' We bring you excerpts of our conversation with the respected director David about his actor son Varun. How is Varun as a son? Varun has always been naughty, but is an amazing child. He was never demanding and was happy to play with his toys and his GI Joe till he became big, where he would take his GI Joe to his bathroom while taking a bath. He loves sports and was a good runner. He has his simple friends from school days who are all grounded and he would even today prefer going with his friends to a Shiv Sagar to have a dosa versus going to a fancy place. If he is in the
car and I call him and ask him where he is, he will not know. If you ask him what time it is, he will not know. I have never hit him. While I provided for both my sons financially, I never realized when they grew up, as I was very busy in the 90s, perpetually living out of a suitcase. It's only when my older son Rohit went to the US and Varun to Nottingham that my wife said, 'David what are you doing?' And I realized what I had missed as a father. I would talk daily to Rohit and Varun. We thought that Varun would return to work for a bank, but he shocked us on his return when he said he wanted to become an actor. Even though he is doing well now, he is not the materialistic kind and even today, I manage his finances and income tax-related things. He is my friend and he will wrestle on my bed with me as long
The best thing I like about him is his passion about work. He has the killer instinct. I was also like that. I too was very competitive, where if you push me against the wall, I will strike back. He is even more competitive than me. as just four years back. He would come on my set and help and be happy to be the spot boy. His mother has always kept him grounded. She would take Varun in a rickshaw to play cricket and would manage everything. He is very grounded and respects his elders very well. Does he show you his emotion? He shows it very little, but I come to know through his mother. He nearly died when I fell sick while shooting Main Tera Hero. He was crying and was upset with me and was running around, but did not let me know that. But he doesn't know that I knew. I know that he is concerned about my
Varun Dhawan
health. But for me to return the next day itself from the hospital was important, as in my kind of cinema, by my not being there you could miss a laugh. My wife and sons treat me like a child and don't allow me to even cross the road. I want to tell them that I have been streetsmart and can manage. At heart, I am still a middle-class boy, who loves noise and has come up stepby-step. What has Varun taken after you? The best thing I like about him is his passion about work. He has the killer instinct. I was also like that. I too was very competitive, where if you push me against the wall, I will strike back. He is even more competitive than me. I would eat breakfast not knowing whether I would get lunch and lived handto-mouth. Iska baap toh David Dhawan hai, mera baap toh koi nahi tha.
How do you find him as an actor? He met Karan Johar on his own and wanted to assist him as he was starting My Name Is Khan with Shah Rukh and Kajol. Varun wanted to see both these stars act, post which Karan cast him in Student Of The Year. Once, Karan called me to see one of his songs and that was the time I saw him dancing. Seeing him dance, my heart swelled, as he was dancing so well.
David Dhawan
He has the rhythm, which either you have it or don't have it. Karan has given him a great launch. I remember the first trial for which Karan called us. Yash Chopraji was sitting at the back and Yashji said, 'Tera beta kamaal hai' during the interval. I saw the climax and told Rohit, 'He is an actor. There is nothing to worry about him' and I hugged Varun. You have worked with two of the biggest actors, Govinda and Salman. How does Varun compare as a hero versus them in a David Dhawan film? It's very difficult for me to comment on this, but he will join them. I have tried to do the best with him and now it's up to him what he does. He is a newcomer. He has a long way to go to be where they are. I have made him do the best that a newcomer can do. I get calls
asking whether he is available and I feel very proud of him. I also feel happy for my wife Lali, as she goes out feeling proud that she is his mother. Varun and stars like him have impacted established stars. Likewise, newcomer directors have impacted older directors like you. So in a sense you both are in opposite boats. How long do you see yourself directing? My last film Chashme Baddoor was a hit. I will be there till my shoes are on. Do you see Varun getting married? No, I don't see him getting married. I will take the daylights out of him if he was to. He is married to only his profession at the moment. Salman Khan abhi tak shaadi kiya kya?
FAME & NAME TOO: President Pranab Mukherjee presenting the Padma Bhushan Award to Kamal Haasan and Padma Shri Award to Vidya Balan at a Civil Investiture Ceremony, in New Delhi on March 31
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Philosophy
April 4, 2014
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Page Sponsored by Sahanis WILLIAM WILDBLOOD
T
here was a time when I would unreservedly have described myself as a partisan of non-duality. Today I regard it as potentially one of the more misleading forms of spirituality though I still believe it describes the basic truth of the universe. What has changed in my outlook? What has changed is the fact that so many people now embrace (or even teach) non-duality in a form that would not have been recognized by its originators in India (Note: non-duality is found in many places but I take the Indian version as the principal source of the doctrine). So it is not non-duality that is the problem. That remains as pure truth. It is the distorted version of those who think themselves in the vanguard of spirituality but who dispense with God because of what can only be called lack of humility and intellectual arrogance. What these people don't appreciate is that you should come to non-duality as the basis of your approach to God and the universe only after having fully traversed duality. For duality is real. It may not be the ultimate reality but ultimate reality comes only at the end. Non-duality is a step beyond duality but that does not mean that it completely replaces it. Non-duality says that all is one. The division between spirit and matter is RAMESH BALSEKAR
T
he trouble is expectation. That is the whole problem in life. You expect something, you don't get it, you feel frustrated. Money is really the main problem for most people. I personally think one should not lessen the importance of money. If money is no problem, 80 percent of the problems are not there. Then what remains as problems are what the mind creates out of expectation. If the expectation doesn't materialize there is frustration. So if it is possible to live without expectation, then there is no frustration. If you meditate without expectation, then there is no problem. I'm not asking you not to meditate, but meditate without any expectation. Now what happens is you sit in meditation and all the time you expect something to happen - call it silence, call it being in oneness, or whatever. What you call it doesn't matter. But the problem arises if you meditate with an expectation. So if there is no expectation, you live your life. Whatever happens. Why not let life happen? I can't say this to someone who needs money, who needs money to live, for the family. Talking about spiri-
false, and you are pure undivided consciousness. All this is absolutely true, and actually pretty easy to understand as a concept and even to attain as an experience in meditation or, at least, to imagine one has attained. However what is equally true is that the duality of the soul and its Creator is a real one, even if it must eventually be transcended. But, and this is what is at issue, you won't transcend it by denying it, rejecting it or pretending that it is
Worse, they are being sidetracked from the true path and their spiritual development delayed. You are pure awareness Such a simple statement to make, but how do you transcend the duality of subject and object and know yourself to be pure awareness? Not just by thinking so, that's certain. And is pure awareness all you are? Because if not then maybe it's not sufficient to take that, and that alone, as the
which they perceive as outworn (and I am not saying that it is not in many ways), but they still crave some form of spirituality. A non-dualistic belief system fits the bill because, in its trivialized version, it makes relatively few demands of the lower self, and does not require one to bend the knee or incline the head. But spirituality without a recognition of a higher power is a temptation to be avoided, though very attractive to the ego that always
Spirituality without recognition of a higher power is a trap
William Wildblood
It is not non-duality that is the problem. It is the distorted version of those who think themselves in the vanguard of spirituality but who dispense with God because of what can only be called lack of humility and intellectual arrogance.
What you seek is seeking you. - Rumi Love is an involuntary gift that manifests unplanned. - Riaz Ahmed Gohar Shahi What has he found who
not there. You must fully acknowledge it and all it implies, and then go beyond it. That's the only way, and those who are encouraged to bypass the traditional approach, which is founded on wisdom and insight, by teachers of half-truths who lack these things, even if they have an intellectual grasp of that of which they teach, are being misled.
basis of your spiritual practice. One of the Masters' simplest but most profound sayings was 'Remember the Creator'. This is something non-dualists of the modern Western variety frequently fail to do. Usually brought up in one of the monotheistic religions, or a society still heavily influenced by that, they are eager to throw off their cultural baggage,
wants to reap the benefits of spirituality without giving itself up. The true non-dualist always remembers the Creator (though he may not phrase it exactly like that) because he knows that he is part of God. For the false non-dualist it is the other way around. He is pure consciousness. Excerpted from http:// meetingthemasters.blogspot.co.uk
tuality to a hungry man is like adding insult to injury. I can't tell him or her to do something and not expect money. That's why I never underestimate the importance of money. If money is not a problem, then why have any expectations? Let life happen. Legan: I feel I have to grow. I have to change, I have to become… Ramesh: That's the whole point! Why? Legan: I have to become more
empty, and the thinking mind never allows itself to be empty. The thinking mind always wants something. That's why the thinking occurs and the expectations happen. If you don't have to earn money, then do something to give the working mind a change - do something to help people. There must be something you can do to help people around you who need help. So if boredom is your problem…. Legan: There is always this talking in this fellowship that I'm go-
having done something and satisfaction arises - fine. If it doesn't arise - that is also fine. Legan: Is meditating everyday helpful? Ramesh: Helpful for what? That's the whole problem. Meditation is helpful for what? Legan: For peace of mind Ramesh: Ah! So it is peace of mind that you are looking for, isn't it? And that is the expectation. Legan: I think I'm always looking for something.
has he lost who has found God? - Ibn 'Ata' Allah Al-Iskandari Reflection is the lamp of the heart. If it departs, the heart will have no light. - ‘Abd Allah ibn ‘Alawi ‘Attas The happiness of the drop is to die in the river. - Abu Hamid al-Ghazali Worry is itself an illness, since worry is an accusa-
Expectation is the whole problem in life What remains as problems are what the mind creates out of expectation. If the expectation doesn't materialize there is frustration. So if it is possible to live without expectation, then there is no frustration.
has lost God? And what
tion against Divine Wisdom, a criticism of Divine Mercy. - Said Nursi It is the message, not the man, which is important to Ramesh Balsekar
the Sufis.
- Idries Shah, The Ramesh: Yes. That is the whole problem. So keep yourself busy doSufis ing something, and if you don't need to do anything for money, so much the better. But do something. I'm From the center, no one sure you can't say that there are no people who need some kind of help. can run. Not even wind. Excerpted from pages 144-146 - Qaisar Iqbal Janjua 'Who Cares?!' published by Zen Publications You Insure all your Valuables, all are replaceable except YOU! So Insure yourself FIRST. Call Sahanis, (Arish, Priya or Shiv) for your Insurance needs 718- 271- 0453. Serving for last 35 yrs spiritual… Ramesh: Why? Legan: …or more open, more centered or… Ramesh: That's what I'm saying. So try to live your life or let life happen without expecting anything. The expectation happens because you're bored. The mind is
ing to. There's always this talking about transformation and change, and I feel nothing is happening with me. Sometimes it's okay. Sometimes I feel I have to do something. Ramesh: So do it. That is exactly what I'm telling you. And do it without expecting anything. And
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Talks with the Taliban: Pak military's endgame? RANA BANERJI
T
he March 1 ceasefire announced by the Tehrik-eTaliban Pakistan (TTP) holds somewhat tenuously in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) even as the Nawaz Sharif government shows extraordinary patience in continuing to engage with them. The TTP was badly hit by the pinpointed air-strikes undertaken by the Pakistani army in February. The ceasefire resulted due to the TTPs weak position, as their current hide-outs stood revealed and they could not escape to higher mountain reaches immediately due to winter weather. Though patience of the army leadership appeared to be wearing thin with the TTP's dilatory tactics, on March 12, a meeting chaired by Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, General Rashad Mahmood, reaffirmed "full preparedness and resolve of the armed forces to fight the menace of terrorism under a comprehensive strategy, within the policy
army from FATA, and the release of prisoners. The ceasefire would need to be extended. Any further extension could tactically redound to the army's disadvantage, helping the TTP militants regroup, and escape to the hills in better climatic conditions. However, a key risk in this regard would be the possibility of maverick actions by smaller militant groups perpetrating localized violence against security forces. Each such act of violence makes further negotiations with the TTP more difficult as it cannot cohesively control militants loosely adhering to its fold. The army has threatened firm retaliation against such incidents. Demands have come from civil society that ceasefire extension be accompanied by release of kidnapped or arrested `non-combatants', especially the long incarcerated sons of PPP politicians, Haider Gilani and Shahbaz Taseer and the Vice Chancellor of Peshawar University, Dr Ajmal Khan.
File photo of supporters of Pakistan's religious political party Sunni Tehreek shout slogans as they demand a military operation against Taliban, in Pakistan's northwest, during a protest rally in Lahore February 28
parameters set by the political leadership." The TTP Shura demanded direct talks with authorized government functionaries, including representatives of the army and the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The army is against any such direct involvement. Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali has increasingly emerged in a frontal or nodal role. He presided over the March 25 meeting which formed a committee to talk to the TTP at a secret venue in North Waziristan. The success of the talks would depend on whether the civilian politicians can take the army along while tackling the main demands of TTP vis-Ă -vis the imposition of Sharia law, the withdrawal of the
Release of prisoners remains a vexing issue. A list of 300 women and children `prisoners' was given to a pro-TTP mediator, Professor Ibrahim, but the army denied holding any women or children. In the recent past, the execution of Dr Usman, the Punjabi Taliban mastermind of the 2010 attack on Army Headquarters was stayed by the Punjab government after the Taliban issued a threat. Shahbaz Sharif too has been reluctant to act firmly against militants for fear of retaliation and collateral damage in Punjab. The army would baulk at release of prisoners at this stage, especially those arrested or detained for specific terrorist incidents. Phased release of those who may not have
committed heinous crimes could be considered later, provided binding progress for peace can be achieved through a longer term ceasefire accompanied by a surrender of weapons. Currently, agreement on this seems a far cry. A withdrawal of army` regulars' from FATA too seems unacceptable, even if the TTP couches this request with the proposal of restoring jurisdiction of Frontier Corps para-military personnel. Persistent infighting within the TTP would also need to be assessed. Mullah Fazlullah, the current TTP leader hails from Swat, and is disliked by the army leadership. Though his ascension may have been endorsed by the Afghan Taliban leadership (Mullah Omar), it is unclear if powerful local leaders like the Haqqanis, Mehsuds and the Wazirs fully accept him. The army/ISI could exploit these differences. Whenever there is a military operation in FATA and KP or anticipation thereof, a large outflow of internally displaced persons (IDPs), mostly civilians, especially women and children occurs. IDPs from the 2009 Swat operation continue to live in abysmal conditions in the Jalozai relief camp and other less organized temporary settlements in Tank, Dera Ismail Khan. There is also a burgeoning Pashtun settlement in greater Karachi urban agglomeration. Any new military operation would require the civilian administration to gear up their preparedness to cope for a fresh influx of IDPs. This can be an emotive issue. Though a 7 Infantry Division garrison is present in Miranshah, the writ of the State does not run in many areas of FATA. These areas can be used as `launch pads' by insurgents supporting the Afghan Taliban (AT) in Afghanistan, as also against Pakistan's own security forces. The army's responses would have to be carefully calibrated, giving the TTP a sufficient ` bloody nose' yet not jeopardizing the capacity of the Afghan Taliban to hold ground on the other side of the Af-Pak border. While the civilian political leadership seems keen to continue the peaceful dialogue, the army sees this as ineffectual appeasement. This dilemma is likely to intensify as Pakistan's politicians muddle through the current confusion on finding the right answers to curb the growing domestic threat of Islamic terrorism. The writer is Distinguished Fellow, IPCS
India Post Manifesto mess
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anifestoes are promises that political parties make. Now since promises are not meant to be fulfilled, you can promise anything. The Congress has been the first up with its manifesto and although it has been in power for the last ten years, it is still making the same promises it made the last time. Its achievements are there for all to see. If it had achieved something in the last five years, it should be praising its prime minister, who unfortunately continues to be in hiding. Manmohan Singh is not visible in any of the advertisements that the Congress party has put out. It is an admission of failure of its five years in office. It is only Congress President and Vice President, the first family's mother and son, who figure prominently in the ads. Rahul Gandhi hardly looks convincing making the claims of progress for future. There was lot of opportunity for him to make that progress a reality as his own government has been in power. And the Congress has continued to give tickets to the tainted. Ashok Chavan, a former chief minister of Maharashtra who is accused in the Adarsh housing scam, has been given the ticket to fight again and Sonia Gandhi has come to his defense. If the Congress loses in the coming election, it would be the first family to blame. The BJP is finding it difficult to come out with a manifesto because although a mainly Hindu party, it would like to please all. It has been trying hard to pick some Muslim faces to demonstrate its claim that it has risen above religion and caste and treats all as Indian citizens. Its latest foray in Bihar where a Muslim candidate Sabir Ali was picked, came a cropper as charges were leveled against him of being soft on terrorism. Sabir Ali is a defector from Nitish Kumar's JD (U) from which he was expelled for praising Narendra Modi. Since winnability is the lone criterion whichever be the party, many known with criminal background continue to be fielded by major parties. The Congress is refusing to cancel the ticket of Imran Masood from Saharanpur who in a speech is reported to have threatened to "cut Narendra Modi to pieces." But it is the Aam Admi Party which is finding it most difficult to come out with a manifesto. A darling of the lower classes, it doesn't want to displease the middle class also which lent it strong support during elections in Delhi. Its leader Arvind Kejriwal has been flipflopping in its support to capitalism. It cannot deny the need to encourage industries nor the need to reform the labor laws which are discouraging industries. A lack of credible economic policy is holding back their manifesto plans. The middle class wants the frills of a so-called world class city of flyovers, the metro, spanking new airports, malls, ATMs and all the good things of life. Whereas its support comes from the lower classes who want water, electricity, education and healthcare. The mainstream parties are finding themselves on a sticky wicket where the regional parties hold sway. It is the local issues of caste, language and access which dominate the debate. But corruption is a universal fact and the regional parties may be more brash about in spite of the anti-corruption campaign launched by the AAP. In Andhra Pradesh, Jaganmohan Reddy, the son of a former Congress chief minister, has set up his own party. In spite of his youth, he was found indulging in old time tactics of bribing voters through cash. Interestingly, the voters are not averse to receiving cash. They came out in the open protesting when they found the currency that he had gifted them belonged to pre-2005 vintage which is being withdrawn by the RBI, or actually fake notes. There could not have been better evidence of election time corruption.
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