IndiaPost_04-26-2013 by Ghanshyam Bisht

Top Stories

V O I C E

O F

I N D I A N S

W O R L D W I D E

India Post www.indiapost.com

P Chidambaram

India may free oil, gas price controls Details on page 13

P V Sarath Kumar

Andhra engineer found dead in US

NEW YORK • WASHINGTON D.C. • CHICAGO • ATLANTA • CALIFORNIA

VOL 18, No. 971

April 26, 2013

50¢

Periodical Postage

VISA CURBS WILL HIT INDO-US TRADE

NEW DELHI: Software services industry body Nasscom has said the proposal by a group of 8 US Senators to restrict business and work visa is "discriminatory" and cautioned that such a move will hit the customer sentiment besides impacting the Indo-American trade relations. Stating that the proposal by 'Gang of Eight' is "very strategic" and it is of great importance to India, Nasscom President Som Mittal told PTI: "For me, it is a trade issue and not an immigration issue. Like we have free flow of goods either side, I think it is as important to have free

flow of highly skilled people it is part of the business." "It will be discriminatory and will impact our competitiveness as well as ability to service our customers. We have feasible information that such regulations are being put inside the current draft, which is to be released soon," he said. The US Senators are working on the negotiations for a comprehensive immigration reform, which includes conditions like firms having more than 15 per cent H1B population would be prohibited from placing any H1B visa holder at a client site, sources said. Details on page 5

Raj Chetty

Indian American economist wins 'Baby Nobel' Details on page 12

Priyanka’s assistant dies in US Details on page 5

Blasts reminder of lurking threat: PM to Obama

Details on page 5 Details on page 6

Truth will surface, says Anand Jon

Indian woman, two daughters found dead in UK

Details on page 23 Details on page 7

US aid to India drops by 16 percent

CONTENTS Bollywood ---------------------- 28-29 Classifieds ------------------------- 51

Details on page 7

Community Post -------------- 16-27 Date Book -------------------------- 15 Edit Page --------------------------- 54

INDIA POST SURVEY

HealthScience Post --------- 32-35

survey@indiapost.com

Horoscope ------------------------- 52

This week’s question

Immigration Post ------------- 44-47

Boston a lesson in terrorism for US?

Life Style ----------------------- 30-31 Philosophy ------------------------- 53

Last week’s result

Is Narendra Modi peaking early? YES 67%

NO 33%

RALLY WITH RO:

Congressional candidate Ro Khanna addressing supporters at the official launch in Cupertino's DeAnza College on Sunday April 14 of his campaign to represent Bay Area residents in Washington. (Details on page 6 & 16)

Publisher’s Diary ------------------ 4 Real Estate -------------------- 48-50 TechBiz Post ------------------- 12-14 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 39-43

Certified by “CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL Readership 117,765”

India Post

www.indiapost.com

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

India Post

India Post www.indiapost.com

The Weekly Newspaper Serving Indians Worldwide

Romesh & Sunita Japra Publishers Rajesh Verma Co-Publisher Vikram Paul President Krishan Sharma Mg Director & Joint Editor Vinod Dhawan Senior Editor Naresh Sodhi General Manager Amit Saini IT Director Ghanshyam Bisht Supervisor Graphics SAN FRANCISCO & SILICON VALLEY Vijay Thapar CPRO & Advertising Sonia Sidhu Management Analyst Deepak Chhabra Promotions Harish Kalewar Promotions Priya Nayar Bureau Chief Gregg Nuti Sales & Marketing Director Rakesh Kapoor Correspondent Ratika J. Paul Photo Journalist Neeloo Kapoor Photo Journalist Sudesh Kumari Correspondent Rama Mehra Advertising Vidya Sethuraman Correspondent Ritu Maheshwari Correspondent Sujata Singh Correspondent Raaj D. Photo Journalist LOS ANGELES Mrs Shashi Trivedi Bureau Chief J S Bedi PR & Marketing Mrs Prem Kishore Sr Correspondent Greg Heffernan Correspondent Ms Bobby Sharma Correspondent Babeeta Kaur Dhillon Correspondent Pavan Kaur Bhatia Correspondent CHICAGO Ramesh Soparawala Resident Editor A Q Siddiqui Correspondent ST. LOUIS Ashwin Patel Correspondent NEW YORK & NEW JERSEY Pinky Kaur Bureau Chief Srirekha N. Chakravarty Correspondent Nikita Japra Correspondent Sukhvinder Saini Circulation ATLANTA Sanjay Saggere Bureau Chief FLORIDA B K Madnani CANADA Firdaus Ali Correspondent BOSTON Gope Gidwani Bureau Chief

April 26, 2013

IndiaNewsweekly Post Mission Statement To empower the Indian Diaspora and make their voice strong and effective in countries of their adoption. RJ Media conglomerate offers a credible, professional and complete package of news, opinion, entertainment, networking and information.

Publisher’s Diary

he Obama administration in its second term seems to be slipping back to its policy of appeasement of Pakistan. In its anxiety to exit Afghanistan and secure the assurance of Pakistan's army not to indulge in mischief there, it has resumed defense aid to its "foe cum friend." In addition to the $1.4 billion that President Barack Obama proposed in his annual budget under the overseas contingency operations (OCO), John Kerry has sought 1.3 billion in economic and military assistance to India's neighbor. The new secretary of state justifies this saying, "Our economic and military assistance to Pakistan helps reduce the conditions that enable extremism and its calling card - terrorism." Obviously this has raised concerns in India which have not been acknowledged by Washington. Post-withdrawal, Pakistan hopes to prop up a pliable weak government in Afghanistan with a significant role for Taliban. Such a regime will tolerate creation of safe havens for militant outfits which it can employ to target India both in Kashmir and in the interior. The US knows that keeping alive the terror option against India is more relevant to Pakistan than economic or other political gains that may help reduce its own state of bankruptcy. Still the Obama administration is tending to ignore the voice of India in order to buy co-operation from Pakistan in its eagerness to leave the Afghan theatre of war. Take for instance the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline which was recently inaugurated with Pakistan President Zardari visiting Iran and openly defying the US by declaring it was a matter of sovereignty for it. There was little reaction from Washington. But notice how strong pressure was brought on India to cut off oil imports from Iran. Secretary of State John Kerry recently visited China, Japan and South Korea on a fire-fighting mission and is due to visit India in June. While former secretary of state Hillary Clinton created the right foundations for the strategic dialogue with India, New Delhi awaits this visit with apprehension as Kerry is known to be soft on Pakistan. Without addressing India's terror concerns, Washington will be in danger of losing some friends in that country. Romesh K Japra

rkjapra@indiapost.com

DETROIT Ashok B Jain, M D Bureau Chief Gurminder Singh SAN DIEGO Neelu Bhardwaj Bureau Chief SACRAMENTO Madan Sharma Bureau Chief Janak Sidhra Correspondent Upen Shukla Correspondent CENTRAL VALLEY (CA) Dr Ram Saini Bureau Chief Sheila Rogers Correspondent YUBA CITY (CA) Satnam Tatla Correspondent CAROLINAS Nalini Raja Patel Correspondent INDIA Vinod Dhawan Senior Editor & Bureau Chief Tripti Parule Correspondent NEW DELHI Vinod Kumar Khatana Graphics PUNJAB Shiv Japra Bureau Chief Anil Kanwar Senior Correspondent/ Marketing DOABA, PUNJAB Romesh Kaura Correspondent HYDERABAD M Sagar Kumar Bureau Chief MUMBAI Nidhi Soparawala Correspondent Frank Fernandes Correspondent Vaidehi Patel Correspondent Hema Trivedi Marketing Diana Gabriel Marketing India Post (ISSN-1064-3868) is published weekly for $30 for 52 issues yearly by India Post, 1860 Mowry Ave # 200 Fremont, CA 94538. Periodicals postage paid at Norwalk, CA and additional mailing office. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the corporate headquarters: 1860 Mowry Ave # 200 Fremont, CA 94538 Copyright © 1994 Indamec, Inc. DISCLAIMER India Post assumes all advertisers to be reliable and responsible for all liability for their claimers

INFO-CENTER CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS 1860 Mowry Ave # 200 Fremont, CA 94538 Tel: 510-797-7799, Fax: 510-790-2806; E-mail: info@indiapost.com E-SUBSCRIPTION: Vikram Paul Tel: 510-789-7520 Extn: 208; E-mail: subscribe@indiapost.com Classifieds: Tel: 510-938-8668; E-mail:classifieds@indiapost.com or Tel: 510-275-4467, E-mail: priya@indiapost.com Graphics Inquiry: Tel: 510-936-9490; E-mail: ghanshyam@indiapost.com For Editorial: Sonia Sidhu Tel: 510-797-7799; E-mail: sonia@indiapost.com

For advertisement rates call the office nearest to you: SAN FRANCISCO & SILICON VALLEY 1860 Mowry Ave # 200 Fremont, CA 94538 Tel: 510-938-8667 e-mail: nareshsodhi@gmail.com Priya Nayar: 510-579-2760 e-mail: priya@indiapost.com

ATLANTA 67 Peach Tree Dr., Ste. 102, Buckhead Atlanta, GA 30309 Tel: 404-425-3021 E-mail: sanjay@eBolo.com

HIGHLIGHTS Bollywood: Cool newbie Salman Khan's heroine from Mental, Daisy Shah, was a chorus dancer for Choreographer Ganesh Acharya

Cover Story: Visa curbs The proposal by a group of 8 US Senators to restrict business and work visa is discriminatory, says Nasscom

Community: Ro campaign Congressional candidate Ro Khanna has launched his campaign to represent Bay Area residents in Washington.

Immigration: Immigrants rally Tens of thousands of immigrants and activists rallied across the U.S. to demand a path to citizenship

Life Style: Rotten actor He is considered a legend in film industry but megastar Amitabh Bachchan calls himself a "rotten actor"

LOS ANGELES

FLORIDA 8401 West Sample Road 30, Coral Springs, Florida - 33065

12908 Indian Lane Norwalk, CA 90650 Tel: 562-441-5511, shashi19@yahoo.com

Techbiz:

TORONTO, CANADA Tel/Fax: 416-744-8610

Baby Nobel

DELHI

A young Indian-American economist from Harvard University, Raj Chetty has won the 'Baby Nobel'.

CHICAGO 2543 W Devon Ave Chicago IL 60659 Tel: 773-973-7394; Fax: 773-973-7396; Email: sramesh@aol.com

NEW YORK Tel: 908-338-3752 (Marketing) Tel: 732-283-4939 (Editorial) E-mail: indiapost2000@yahoo.com

NEW JERSEY 21 Longfellow st., Carteret, NJ 07008 Tel: 732-969-1114; Fax: 732-969-3735 E-mail: indiapost2000@yahoo.com

BOSTON Tel: 617-298-9200; Fax: 617-298-1104 GOPE; E-mail: ggidwani@aol.com

Jin Kushal Suri Complex, 3rd Floor, 230-A, Masjid Moth, (NDSE Part-II) New Delhi - 110049 Tel: 11-46142940, 26257769 Fax: 11-46142969 E-mail:delhi@indiapost.com

28 1 16 44 30 12

MUMBAI

• Fernandes Mansion

Tam Taloa, Bassien (W) Mumbai Tel: 09619 330159

Travel:

• Hema Trivedi

Dudh Sagar

7 Crescent Chambers, Tamarind Land, Fort Mumbai 400023 Tel: 93223 44471

• Diana Gabriel

Tel: 98200 28348

For editorial, contact: editor@indiapost.com or call 510-797-7799

The Dudh Sagar waterfall is situated in the Indian state of Goa around 60 km off Panaji, the capital of the state

Cover/Top Stories

April 26, 2013

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Visa curbs will hit Indo-US trade: Nasscom NEW DELHI: Software services industry body Nasscom has said the proposal by a group of 8 US Senators to restrict business and work visa is "discriminatory" and cautioned that such a move will hit the customer sentiment besides impacting the IndoAmerican trade relations. Stating that the proposal by 'Gang of Eight' is "very strategic" and it is of great importance to India, Nasscom President Som Mittal told PTI: "For me, it is a trade issue and not an immigration issue. Like we have free flow of goods either side, I think it is as important to have free flow of highly skilled people it is part of the business." "It will be discriminatory and will impact our competitiveness as well as ability to service our customers. We have feasible information that such regulations are being put inside the current draft,

which is to be released soon," he said. The US Senators are working on the negotiations for a comprehensive immigration reform, which

â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is a trade issue and not an immigration issue. Like we have free flow of goods either side, I think it is as important to have free flow of highly skilled people it is part of the businessâ&#x20AC;? includes conditions like firms having more than 15 per cent H1B population would be prohibited from placing any H1B visa holder

at a client site, sources said. Besides, employers would be restricted from placing L visa holders at client sites and the client would have to attest to non-displacement of US workers, companies would be required to pay many of their H1Bs substantially more than market wages, etc, they added. Nasscom has not seen the proposed draft of regulations, but was aware of such developments through reports, Mittal said. "We haven't seen the draft yet, but these are the likely changes that they are suggesting," he added. On the impact of such a move, Mittal said "It will not impact the industry in the short term (this quarter), but it could start giving concerns to customers. The customers can think will Indian firms be able to deliver. So, it will start impacting customer sentiment." He cautioned that it is an im-

Priyanka Chopra's assistant dies in US

ecently, Priyanka Chopra was on tour of the US and Canada. However, once the US leg of the tour was over and while the rest of the entourage moved to neighboring Canada, one of the crew members Jiban Patra, failed to get the required visa and stayed back in Los Angeles. Unfortunately, on April 7, the 41 year old Jiban was found dead in his Beverly Hills hotel room. But ever since his corpse was uncovered, it has been languishing at the mortuary. The Los Angeles Police Department, which is investigating the case, has registered a case of unnatural death and an initial inquest has pegged the immediate cause of death as heart attack. Despite the investigation being underway, the police department issued a clearance for the body to be brought back to India; however the process is caught in a socalled logistical muddle. Apparently the obstacle being faced is the transporting of the body which is pegged with a cost of approximately $15,000. Though sources state that Priyanka's team is in contact with the Indian Embassy to try and work out a solution. On the other hand, the Oriya community (Jiban is from Orissa) in the US has initiated a parallel dialogue with the Embassy and instituted a fund in his name to expedite the passage. A source from the US said,

"Jiban has two kids and a wife back in Mumbai and they have been in constant touch with Priyanka Chopra's office to arrange for his body to be brought back home. But nothing has worked out so far. The death was also hush-hush till the Indian com-

munity pages are also appealing for help. "...We are requesting Priyanka Chopra's team to take the responsibility to send the body to Orissa. The family at India was helpless and no one speaks English/Hindi. We are in contact with PC's team

Jiban Patra

munity took it up strongly and put pressure on Priyanka to arrange for Jiban's passage to India. It is a tragic case as he is the only earning member of the family and lost his father to heart attack last year." Even as the bereaved family waits for the Embassy and PeeCee to arrive at a consensus, the Oriya community (Jiban is from Orissa) in the US has initiated a parallel dialogue with the Embassy and instituted a fund in his name to expedite the passage. Online com-

and also the LA-Coroner police department and updating the family. After Jiban's death his family is devastated and will face an immediate financial disaster. There is no one there to help them..." says the appeal that has been put up on the website of the Orissa Society of the Americans. A source from the US confirmed that all necessary paperwork and legal authorization has been done for the body to be transported to India.

portant issue, which needs to be addressed at the earliest. "We need to weigh it and it is very strategic and it is important to India. It will impact our ability

"Our greatest concern centers on proposals that would preclude access to visas or impose unworkable visa-related restrictions and fees on a company's ability to sponsor H1B and L-1 visasâ&#x20AC;? to compete on a level playing field with other players," he said.

USIBC opposition

Meanwhile, USIBC, a top US body representing American companies doing business in India, in a letter to the 'Gang of Eight' said such a move will impact Indo-US trade relations. The US India Business Council (USIBC) has opposed several provisions of the proposed bill, which it believes, if implemented, would end up targeting Indian companies. "Our greatest concern centers on proposals that would preclude access to visas or impose unworkable visa-related restrictions and fees on a company's ability to sponsor H-1B and L-1 visas based upon their business model or the composition of its local workforce," USIBC President Ron Somers wrote in the letter. The eight Senators are: Michael Bennet, Richard Durbin, Jeff Flake, Lindsey Graham, John McCaain, Robert Menendez, Marco Rubio and Chuck Schumer. -PTI

Andhra engineer found dead in US WASHINGTON: Potharaju Venkata Krishna Murthy, a retired Venkata Sarath Kumar, 35-year-old assistant commercial tax officer, software engineer from Guntur in and Radha - are at loss of words Andhra Pradesh who was miss- as the shocking news came from ing since March 31 from Wash- their close relatives in the U.S. who ington D.C, was found dead by were following the investigation. the United States Park Police They had been spending sleep(USPP). less nights in their own house at His body was reportedly A.T. Agraharam since the moment traced at Tidal Basin situated very they were told that their son had close to the FDR Memorial. been missing from March 31 The actual reason behind his evening, a few hours after condeath is yet to be known, police tacts with him got snapped. are investigating if it was a case Sarath was a resident of Chiof accidental drowning or a mis- cago and was on a project work in chief. Sarath Kumar family along with his cousin His wife didn't notice he Srinivas was visiting wasn't on the tour bus until Niagara Falls with a tour the bus stopped for coffee group on March 3. His wife didn't notice he break on their return from wasn't on the tour bus Niagara Falls. The family until the bus stopped for coffee break on their went back and searched for return from Niagara him and filed a complaint Falls. The family went back and searched for him and Washington D.C from where he filed a complaint with police after left for a tour. He came to Guntur not tracing him. for a marriage six months ago and Sarath had been working with last spoke to his parents the same software giant TCS for the past day before he went missing unseven years and was residing in der mysterious circumstances. Chicago. Visibly disturbed by the tragic He married Manjula, a divorcee incident, Mr. Krishna Murthy said: from Srikakulam, about two years "My son was a brilliant engineer ago. Sarath and Manjula were in a specializing in mobile testing tools relationship even before the mar- and did Masters in Science from riage. Grenoble University in France. He Manjula was working with aspired for a job in the World Bank Motorola. and was almost there. But fate had Sarath Kumar's parents - something else in store for him."

Top Stories

India Post

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

Obama's superstars in Ro's Congressional campaign team Commerce, where he was responsible for managing 108 offices dedicated to helping companies in the United States improve exports and increase innovation. During his tenure at Commerce, Khanna also served on the White House Business Council where he demonstrated his unifying approach to problemsolving by bringing labor unions to the table to help develop trade strategies - an approach that marked a significant departure from previous Commerce Department practice.-PTI

WASHINGTON: Indian American Ro Khanna might not have got the support of the US President Barack Obama, but he has managed to rope in some of the top superstars of his 2012 presidential elections for the former's Congressional elections next year. 36-year-old Khanna, who has previously served in the Obama Administration as one of his top ranking trade official, has announced his Congressional bid for the 2014 general elections from California against his own partyman and incumbent Mike Honda from California's 17th Con-

gressional district as the new State laws allows two opponents from the same party to run against each other in general elections. Khanna announced his executive committee to provide policy and strategic guidance to the

campaign by leveraging its deep ties within the Silicon Valley community. Almost all of them are superstars and fund raisers of the Obama's re-election campaign in 2012. The executive committee will be co-chaired by the Khanna campaign chair Steve Spinner and general consultant Jeremy Bird, with members David Berger, Kamil

Hasan, Amy Rao, Rusty Rueff, Jim Green, Sergio Santos, Eva Roa, Lindsay Lamont, Kavita Tankha and Ann Woo. Berger, Rusty Rueff and Kamil Hasan were Obama's members for America's National Finance Committee during the 2012 election. Currently, Kamil is on the Board of the America India Foundation, a Trustee of UC Santa Cruz and Aligarh University Endowment in India. He has also served as the faculty at IIT-Delhi and Stanford University. While Amy Rao, currently the CEO of Integrated Archive Systems - a company she founded in 1994, was one of the nation's top fundraisers for the Hillary Clinton Presidential campaign. He has also served as the Coordinating National Co-Chair of Technology for Obama. Jim Green was the Northern California finance director for Obama's re-election campaign. In addition to his role as a top fundraiser for Obama, he was the staff director of Technology where he mobilized and leveraged the technology community's support around Obama's re-election campaign. In this role, he was responsible for increasing participation within the fastest growing sector of the economy - technology. Previously, he worked for the Democratic National Committee finance team where he was responsible for major donor fund raising in California. He also worked as the finance director for Kamala Harris' successful campaign for Attorney General of California. Kavita Tankha was a member of Obama for America's National Finance Committee and Northern California Finance Committee in the 2012 election.

She was one of four leading Indian American Fundraisers for the President this past election cycle. As per the latest filing reported with the Federal Election Commission, Khanna has already amassed USD 1.2 million for his Congressional bid. "People come here from around the world to put their dreams into action - that's the promise of America, and it's why my parents came here from Asia," Khanna said announcing his Congressional bid last week. "But Silicon Valley is succeeding in spite of Washington - not because of it. I'm going to wage a campaign of ideas on how we can thrive in a world economy where success depends on education," he said.

Khanna said his campaign will employ cutting edge tactics honed during both Obama presidential campaigns and will use people-focused, data-driven strategies and a digitally-savvy approach to connect with voters and build grassroots support. A longtime Bay Area resident, Khanna returned to Fremont after serving as Deputy Assistant Secretary at the US Department of

Blasts reminder of lurking threat: PM to Obama NEW DELHI: Condemning the a tragic reminder of the evil of ter"outrageous" bomb attacks in rorism that still threatens our naBoston, Prime Minister tions and lurks in our cities." Manmohan Singh wrote to US At the same time, Singh said, President Barack Obama express- "it redoubles our resolve to remain ing solidarity and highlighting the unrelenting in our efforts to delurking threat both the countries feat terrorism and to defend and face from terrorism. "I am deeply shocked and saddened â&#x20AC;&#x153;We stand in solidarity and by the outrageous ter- sympathy with the bereaved rorist attack in Boston. This senseless and families, the injured and the cowardly act of vio- people of the United Statesâ&#x20AC;? lence has struck a city that has long stood as the symbol of openness, learning, uphold the values that define our innovation and enterprise," he nations." wrote to Obama. Singh also offered full support He said that the people of In- to the US in the investigations dia joined him in condemning the into the attack. attack in the strongest terms. "Mr. President, in keeping with "We stand in solidarity and the excellent cooperation between sympathy with the bereaved fami- India and the United States to lies, the injured and the people of combat terrorism, we offer you our the United States," Singh wrote. full support for the investigations He said, "The attack serves as into the attack," he wrote.-PTI

Top Stories

April 26, 2013

India Post

www.indiapost.com

US aid to India drops by 16 percent WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State John Kerry has proposed a 16 per cent cut in the American aid to India, reflecting the transition from a traditional "donor-recipient" relationship to a "strategic partnership" between the two countries. "With respect to India, for the fiscal year 2014, the State Department request is USD 91 million. This represents a 16 per cent decrease from the fiscal levels 2012 (the previous actual spending)," a senior State Department official told PTI. This is in continuation of the trend that has emerged over the past few years. In 2010, the United States aid to India was USD 126.7 million, which drooped to USD 121.6 million in 2011 and USD 108 million in 2012 and was proposed to USD 98.3 million in the current fiscal of 2013, which ends on September 30. "That (drop in US aid to India this year) reflects the ongoing

transition we had under way from the more traditional donor-recipient kind of relationship to much more of a strategic partnership," the official said on condition of

In 2010, the United States aid to India was USD 126.7 million, which drooped to USD 121.6 million in 2011 and USD 108 million in 2012 and was proposed to USD 98.3 million in the current fiscal of 2013, ending Sept anonymity as he was not authorized to speak to the press. "It is a partnership that is addressing India and increasingly global developmental challenges. I think the signature initiative

there is the Agency for International Development Millennium Alliance," the official said. Of the US aid to India, the largest portion - two/third - of that is slated for the health sector. "The biggest program is in global health. About USD 61 million is going to the health program. India still has quite a number of health challenges," the official said. In 2012, the US aid to India in the health sector was some USD 76 million. Overall the State Department budget request for FY-2014 was USD 47.8 billion, which is a six per cent cut from the previous FY-2012 of actual spending. The development assistance from the US to India for the fiscal 2014 has been proposed to USD 12 million as against USD 18.5 million actually spent in 2012. Pointing to the letter written by Secretary of State John Kerry to the Congress along with his budgetary proposals, in which the top

Indian-origin woman, two daughters found dead in UK LONDON: An Indian-origin school laboratory technician and her two daughters have been found dead under mysterious circumstances at their home in west London, a Scotland Yard spokes-

ing into the case," he said. Moments after paramedics and police arrived at the house, police ordered neighbors to close all their doors and windows, saying that there had been a "chemical inci-

man said. Heena Solanki, 34, was found dead along with Prish, 4, and Jasmine, 9, at their home in Midcroft, Ruislip. The spokesman told PTI, "The deaths are being treated as unexplained at this stage. We are still awaiting the Post Mortem report". "No arrests have been made and the Homicide and Serious Crime Command Team is invest-

dent" there, according to a report. Witnesses said police had also taken away what appeared to be a suitcase and a series of tubes. Heena lived with her 42-yearold husband Kalpesh's parents who had been on a holiday when the incident occurred. Meanwhile, contradictory reports emerged in the local media with some saying Kalpesh made

the grim discovery of their bodies when he returned home while some claiming neighbors called police fearing a gas leak. Heena worked at a secondary school and would have known how to brew a killer concoction of chemicals. An evidence bag marked 'caution health hazard' was removed by police officers, the Mirror reported. Heena's Facebook page states she studied at South Gujarat University until 2002. Some media reports claimed that Heena poisoned her daughters before killing herself in what police is terming a "toxic chemical reaction". Shocked friends and neighbors gathered outside the house that has been cordoned off and a probe is on. "I saw these people go into the house in chemical suits. I couldn't believe what was going on. They were a happy family and the children were lovely little kids", a neighbor said. Another neighbor who did not want to be named, said, "Last night the police were knocking on doors telling everyone to get inside and close their windows because there had been a chemical incident".-PTI

US diplomat emphasizes the rebalance towards the Asia Pacific region, the official said, India is going to play an important role in this.

The largest portion two/third - of that is slated for the health sector. “The biggest program is in global health. About USD 61 million is going to the health program. India still has quite a number of health challenges” The current fiscal 2013 ends on September 30, 2013 and the 2014 financial year would begin on October 1. In terms of the budget for South and Central Asia (SCA),

Kerry has proposed USD 514 million for the fiscal 2014. But this does not include Afghanistan and Pakistan, which have been budgeted separately by the Obama Administration in view of the war against terrorism in the region. "If you exclude emergency food aid, our total request for the SCA region is three per cent less than the 2012 actual spending. In effect we are taking less of a cut than rest of the building reflecting the strategic importance of SCA region to the State Department," the official said. Kerry has also requested an increase of USD 18 million above its FY-2012 levels to promote greater regional co-operation. "That of course is particularly to support the New Silk Road vision and the economic transition that is taking place in Afghanistan, a goal which we are working very closely with our friends in India," the official added.-PTI

Indian soldiers in South Sudan fought bravely: UN UNITED NATIONS: Despite have been "much worse" had the being outnumbered, Indian peace- Indian soldiers not fought with keepers fought with velour and "such determination and profesprevented more casualties in the sionalism." recent attack against a UN peaceBanbury said the Indian peacekeeping convoy that killed five keepers in the UN mission in South Indian soldiers in South Sudan, a Sudan are "upset" at the loss of senior UN official has said. their comrades but "they will conAssistant Secretary General for tinue to carry on their work in a Field Support, United Nations, professional and dedicated manAnthony Banbury traveled to ner. We are lucky to have the InJonglei state in South Sudan and dian soldiers in our peacekeeping met the Indian contingent in the operations." wake of the April 9 attack that killed "In terms of the morale and five Indian peacekeepers including a Lieutenant Colonel and five ci- The number of deaths on the vilian UN staff contracUN side would have been tors. Banbury, who re- "much worse" had the Inceived a briefing by the dian soldiers not fought with contingent commander about the incident, said "such determination and the attackers numbered professionalism.” around 150-200 while only 35 Indian soldiers were escorting the convoy. feeling of the contingent, we were "It was clear that this was an all very upset at the loss of the unprovoked, unjustified and de- soldiers. The soldiers in the conliberate ambush against the contingent are particularly distraught voy. The Indian soldiers fought at the loss of their comrades but with great professionalism, brav- they have a very high morale. ery and distinction," Banbury They are professional soldiers," told PTI over phone from the he said. "The rest of the UN misSouth Sudanese capital of Juba. sion is very determined to conHe said the Indian soldiers tinue on with our work. I have showed "gallantry" in defending nothing but the greatest admirathemselves and the civilians in the tion and respect for how the Inconvoy adding that the number dian contingent dealt with the atof deaths on the UN side would tack," he said.-PTI

India Post

www.indiapost.com

April 26, 2013

Top Stories

10 India Post

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

Imran's party admits Kashmiri jihadi forces in Pak ISLAMABAD: Cricketerturned-politician Imran Khan's party has acknowledged

created for the May 11 polls, lists six factors in its section on internal security that "drive terror and

Pakistanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s former cricket star-turned-politician Imran Khan speaks during a press conference, in Islamabad, Pakistan on April 15

"Kashmiri jihadi forces" active in Pakistan as one of key factors driving "terror and lawlessness" within the country. The 'Naya Pakistan Plan', a document posted on the Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf's special website

lawlessness in varying degrees". These factors are "Taliban resistance movement in Afghanistan; Pakistani Taliban trying to enforce their interpretation of Shariah; Kashmiri jihadi forces working from within Pakistan;

sectarian violence, particularly Shia-Sunni killings; ethnic terrorism and violence, for example in Karachi; real and perceived disenfranchisement of Balochistan". Though anti-India groups like the banned Hizb-ul-Mujahideen and Al-Badr Mujahideen openly operate from bases and camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Pakistani political parties have for long been reluctant to acknowledge that such organizations have a presence in the country. Most political parties usually state in their election manifestos that they will support the Kashmiri people in their movement for the right to self-determination. They also toe the Foreign Office's stated position that Pakistan only extends "political, moral and diplomatic support" to the Kashmiri people. The admission in the Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf document is possibly the first time a Pakistani political party has acknowledged the presence of "Kashmiri jihadi forces" within the country. . Though the issue of internal security also figures in the party's manifesto released by Imran Khan on April 9, there is no mention of

Indian among Pope's advisers to revamp Vatican bureaucracy VATICAN CITY: India's Oswald Gracias was among eight high-ranking cardinals from around the world who were appointed by Pope Francis in an advisory council to look into ways of reforming the Vatican bureaucracy. The council will help the Pope revise the Apostolic Constitution on the Roman Curia Pastor bonus - the Church administration which helps him in the daily governance, the Vatican said in a statement. Pope John Paul II had issued Pastor Bonus in 1988. "The Holy Father decided to set up the Council following on from discussions that emerged during the General Congregations in the lead up to the Conclave which elected him the 265th Successor to St Peter," it said. 68-year-old Gracias currently

serves as Archbishop of Bombay (Mumbai), having been appointed by Pope Benedict XVI in 2006. He was raised to the cardinalate in 2007.

Oswald Gracias

Besides Gracias, the group is composed of Giuseppe Bertello, President of the Governatorate of Vatican City State; Francisco Javier Errazuriz Ossa, Archbishop emeritus of Santiago del Cile (Chile); Reinhard Marx, Archbishop of Munchen und Freising (Germany); Laurent Monswengo

Pasinya, Archbishop of Kinshasa (Congo); Sean Patrick O'Malley, Archbishop of Boston (US); George Pell, Archbishop of Sydney; Oscar Andres Maradiaga Rodriguez, Archbishop of Boston Tegucigalpa (Honduras). The group of Cardinals will be coordinated by Rodriguez while Marcello Semeraro, Bishop of Albano (Italy), will serve as the secretary. The first meeting of the Council will take place on October 1-3, 2013, the statement said. Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said the appointments comes exactly one month after Pope Francis was elected as the leader of the world's 1.2 billion Catholics. The council would have no legislative power and that its main function is to "help" and "advise" the Pope, the 'Vatican Radio' quoted Lombardi as saying. The Pope has already been in touch with the selected cardinals, he said. The Catholic Church has faced calls for reform in the wake of scandals involving the sexual abuse of children by priests and allegations of corruption.-PTI

the Kashmiri jihadis in that document. Sources told PTI that a draft of the manifesto had contained material similar to that found in the "Naya Pakistan Plan" but it was dropped after some Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf leaders noticed it.

"stakeholders' conference" on the lines of South Africa's Truth and Reconciliation Commission, to which representatives of "dissident groups" which shun violence will be invited. The party also states that it will create a National Counter-terror-

Though anti-India groups like the banned Hizb-ul-Mujahideen and Al-Badr Mujahideen openly operate from bases and camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Pakistani political parties have for long been reluctant to acknowledge their presence While the "Naya Pakistan Plan" document lists several steps that the party intends to take to improve the internal security situation if it comes to power, it does not state how the issue of Kashmiri jihadis will be tackled. The Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf states that if it forms the government after the May 11 general election, it will pull Pakistan out of the "US dictated war on terror" and help the US in its "exit strategy" for Afghanistan. It further states it will hold a

ism Authority with representatives from the armed forces, InterServices Intelligence, Intelligence Bureau, Pakistan Rangers and police to tackle internal security issues. Imran Khan has often been criticized by his detractors for being soft on the Taliban and other militant groups. However, he was the only major politician to criticize the Lashkar-e-Jhangvi after a string of deadly attacks on the minority Shia community.-PTI

Pak tribunals uphold rejection of Musharraf's nomination ISLAMABAD: Former military rule in 2007. ruler Pervez Musharraf's efforts to Musharraf had plans to conseek election to parliament from test polls in four parliamentary four seats suffered major setbacks seats but his nomination papers when tribunals barred him from were rejected by Returning Officcontesting the May 11 polls from ers in Karachi, Kasur and two constituencies in the Paki- Islamabad. stani capital and Punjab province. Though his papers were acThe tribunals comprising High cepted in Chitral, several lawyers Court judges upheld decisions by have filed objections against his Returning Officers to reject candidature. Musharraf's nomination papers for two National Assembly con- Musharraf had plans to stituencies in Islamabad contest polls in four parliaand Kasur. The development mentary seats but his came a day after another nomination papers were election tribunal dismissed Musharraf's ap- rejected by Returning peal against the rejec- Officers in Karachi, Kasur tion of his nomination papers for a parliamen- and Islamabad tary constituency in the southern port city of Karachi. The former dictator has been Musharraf had filed appeals in facing numerous political and lethe tribunals against the Return- gal challenges since he returned ing Officers' decisions but these to Pakistan last month after nearly were rejected by the judges. four years in self-exile. The Returning Officers had rePakistan will go to polls on jected Musharraf's nomination May 11 to choose new national papers after receiving objections and provincial assemblies, markto his candidature on the ground ing the first democratic transition that he had violated the Consti- in the country's 66-year history.tution by imposing emergency PTI

Top Stories

April 26, 2013

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Australian Broadcasting changes terminology after Hindus protest

pecial Broadcasting Service (SBS) of Australia has changed its headline for the Hindu festival of Holi after Hindus protested. SBS posted a news item on its website including a video under "World News Australia" dated April 4 about upcoming Holi celebrations in Sydney and titled it as "Sydney prepares for a Holi mess". Universal Society of Hinduism protested criticizing SBS for the labeling of Holi as "mess". Now, the new headline of the news item, dated at April six, says: "Sydney ushers in Indian festival of Holi". Rajan Zed, President of Universal Society of Hinduism, in a statement in Nevada (USA) on April five, argued that terming the "festival of color" celebrated by Hindus and others worldwide as "mess" was very insensitive and belittling of the entire community. Zed had urged Australian Communications and Media Authority Chairman and CEO Chris Chapman to look into it.

In this statement Zed had pointed out that although SBS called itself "culturally-relevant Australian media" and claimed to contribute to the "social inclusion and cross-cultural understanding of all Australians - linguistically, sociologically and culturally", but describing a festival of world's oldest religion as

Now, the new headline of the news item, dated at April six, says: "Sydney ushers in Indian festival of Holi" "mess" was highly "disrespectful". Was calling Holi "mess" SBS's way of educating and informing the world correctly; whose "Charter" stated: "The principal function of SBS is to provide…services that inform, educate and entertain" and "…promote understanding and

acceptance of the cultural, linguistic and ethnic diversity of the Australian people"? Zed asked. Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada, thanked SBS for responding to the feelings of Hindu community and removing the inappropriate terminology describing the Hindu festival of Holi. He suggested training for the SBS staff to make them "culturally/religiously literate" and offered to help in Hinduism awareness, if needed. SBS, established in 1978 and headquartered in Artarmon (NSW), "is a national public broadcaster with a special mandate to reflect the multicultural nature of Australian society". With its Board of Directors appointed by the Government, bulk of its funding - about 80 per cent - comes from Government appropriation. SBS Television broadcasts in over 100 languages and is claimed to be watched by over 7 million Australians each week. SBS Radio is claimed to be the world's most linguistically diverse radio network.

Witness identifies one accused in Mumbai attacks case ISLAMABAD: A witness has Yamaha boat engine for Rs 1.6 identified one of seven Pakistani lakh and yet another witness said men charged with involvement in he had sold the accused six the 2008 Mumbai attacks as the pumps, prosecutors told PTI. person who had bought inflatable The witnesses also identified boats used by the terrorists in- 10 men, including Amjad Khan volved in the assault on India's and Atiqur Rehman, who were alfinancial hub. legedly involved in planning and Prosecutors said the witness, executing the Mumbai attacks on whom they did not name for se- November 26, 2008 that left 166 curity reasons, had identified accused Shahid Jamil Riaz during The witnesses also identified proceedings con10 men, including Amjad ducted behind closed doors at Adiala Jail in Khan and Atiqur Rehman, Rawalpindi by anti-ter- who were allegedly inrorism court Judge Chaudhry Habib-ur- volved in planning and executing the Mumbai attacks Rehman. The witness told the judge that Riaz and 10 other people had bought 11 inflat- people dead. able boats, saying they were to These 10 men were earlier debe used for fishing. The witness clared "proclaimed offenders" or further told the judge he had fugitives by the anti-terrorism never seen these persons return- court. ing from sea with any fish. "The 10 proclaimed offenders A total of four private wit- were either trainers or facilitators nesses testified during the hear- of the accused who launched the ing. attacks in Mumbai," chief prosAnother witness told the judge ecutor Chaudhry Zulifqar Ali told that he had sold the accused a PTI.

Tech News Online hiring activity rises 7 pc over last year NEW DELHI: Online hiring activity registered a 7 per cent rise in March from a year-ago period, signaling the ongoing confidence by Indian businesses in the economy, according to a research from Monster.com, a job portal. However on a month-to-month basis, the index remained unchanged in March after witnessing two consecutive months of decline in January and February this year. "The Monster Employment Index India exhibits positive annual growth and the job opportunities have grown across all locations and most industry sectors covered by the Index," Monster.com (India/ Middle- East/ South East Asia) Managing Director Sanjay Modi said. Modi further added that "this growth is reflective of the confidence that Indian businesses have in the resiliency of Indian economy". A sectoral analysis shows that 22 of the 27 industry sectors monitored by the Monster Employment Index registered expansion in online recruitment activity between March, 2012 and March, 2013. Shipping (up 58 per cent), followed by agro-based industries (up 33 per cent) exhibited the highest annual growth among sectors, while import/export and Oil & Gas (down 10 per cent) showed steepest annual decline. -PTI

Google clears another step in EU antitrust case BRUSSELS: A spokesman for the European Union's antitrust body says Google has submitted proposals to address concerns that it is dominating the online search and advertising markets. The European Commission, the 27-nation bloc's executive arm, is investigating whether Google Inc. unfairly favors its own services in its Internet search results. Google's search engine - the world's most influential gateway to online information and commerce enjoys a near-monopoly in Europe. Spokesman Antoine Colombani said Google has submitted in legally binding form a list of remedies to address the Commission's concerns. Those will shortly be put to a market test to see whether they will be sufficient. The Commission will make a final decision on the case - launched in 2010 - sometime after learning the market test's results. -AP

TechBiz 12 India Post

www.indiapost.com

April 26, 2013

Rural India turns good hiring ground: Report NEW DELHI: Companies across sectors are positive about business and recruitment in the first half of this fiscal year and the smaller cities will face the greener side of hiring, staffing solutions company TeamLease Services has said. According to the TeamLease Services April-September FY'14 Employment Outlook Report, there is a 4 per cent rise in the employment outlook index to 79 when compared to the previous half year (October 2012 to March 2013), when it stood at 75. The net employment outlook is the difference in the proportion of respondents reporting an increase in hiring needs and those reporting a decrease. -PTI

Young Harvard University economist Raj Chetty wins 'Baby Nobel' WASHINGTON: A young Indian-American economist from Harvard University, whose pioneering work was cited by US President Barack Obama in his last year's State of the Union Address, has won the prestigious John Bates Clark medal, often described as the 'Baby Nobel'. Delhi-born Raj Chetty, a professor in the Department of Economy at the Harvard University since 2009, has been declared the winner of this year's award. The John Bates Clark medal is awarded to an American economist under the age of 40 who is adjudged to have made a "significant contribution to economic thought and knowledge". The medal is widely regarded as one of the field's most prestigious awards, perhaps second only to the Nobel in economic science. 33-year-old Chetty is the first person of Indian-origin to win this award. "Raj Chetty is an influential young economist working on tax policy, social insurance, and education policy," the American Economic Association Honors and

Raj Chetty

Awards Committee said. The awards committee said Chetty is a remarkably productive economist whose contributions assimilate evidence using a variety of methodological perspectives to shed new light on important public policy questions.

"His work extends basic price theory by incorporating behavioral and psychological aspects of economic behavior; reconciles results from different branches of economics, whether between structural and reduced form economists, or among previously

inconsistent estimates of key parameters such as labor supply elasticities; and employs data that are uniquely suited to answer otherwise unanswerable questions," the awards committee said. His pioneering work in education was cited by President Obama, in his last year's State of the Union Address. "He has established himself in a few short years as arguably the best applied macro-economist of his generation," the awards committee said. Chetty graduated from the Harvard University in 2000 and completed his PhD from the same university in 2003. The Clark Medal was awarded biennially from 1947-2009, but from 2010 onwards it has been awarded annually. Among the previous winners of this prestigious award include Paul Krugman, Paul Samuelson, Milton Friedman, Joseph Stiglitz all Nobel laureates. The award is called Baby Noble, as every third winner one of this award has gone on to bag the Nobel award. -PTI

India eyes oil, gas reserves in Tajikistan DUSHANBE, Tajikistan: With severe economic sanctions against Iran by the West hitting its oil procurement from there, India is looking out and is in talks with Tajikistan to import oil to meet its energy deficiency. Energy security emerged as one of the main area of focus during the talks held between Vice President Hamid Ansari and the top Tajikistan leadership here. Indian officials said they are interested in having cooperation in this area. "Yes, we have been told that there are oil and gas reserves in Tajikistan... it will first need prospecting. Only thereafter one can exploit it. Now we are at a very early stage. We have been told this is an area where we can have cooperation," Sanjay Singh Secre-

tary (East), Ministry of External Affairs said. He added, "And since India is looking for oil and gas assets along the world, I see no reason why we should not do so with

The Persian Gulf nation has slipped four places to become India's seventh-largest crude oil supplier in last fiscal Tajikistan also in due course". If things go as planned, Tajikistan may emerge as a big supplier to cater oil and petroleum products to India.

Refusing to "lay down a quota" for importing oil from any country, including Iran, top Indian officials have made it clear that it will buy oil from wherever it "gets the best deal". India has maintained that it would continue to buy oil from "vital supplier" Iran even though there has been a recent decline in oil import from the Islamic country. India has said that the decline was due to as due to logistics and banking problems. The Persian Gulf nation has slipped four places to become India's seventh-largest crude oil supplier in last fiscal. Iran, which was India's second biggest supplier of crude oil after Saudi Arabia in 2010-11, supplied 9.7 million tons during April-December period of 2012.

The supplies from Iran were behind Saudi Arabia's 24.8 million tons, Iraq's 17.2 million tons, Venezuela's 15.1 million tons, Kuwait's 13.2 million tons and UAE's 11.4 million tons. And this is where Tajikistan could play a role in the longer run. Tajikistan also has immense geo-strategic significance for India as its borders with China (520km), Afghanistan (1,420 km) and because of the Afghan-Wakhan corridor (16-km), which is the least distance between Tajikistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Vice President Hamid Ansari, who is on a four-day visit to Tajikistan, has held meeting with top leadership here to discuss mutual cooperation on security issues and countering cross-border terrorism. -PTI

TechBiz Post

April 26, 2013

India Post

www.indiapost.com

India considering freeing oil, gas price controls: Chidambaram TORONTO: India is considering freeing prices of locally produced oil and natural gas from state controls in a bid to lure more foreign investment, Finance Minister P Chidambaram said here. "We are at an advanced stage a Cabinet paper is under consideration on how to move from a production sharing model to revenue sharing model for oil and gas explored and excavated by companies," he told investors here as he started a tour of Canada and US to woo investors. At present, India allows 100 per cent foreign direct investment (FDI) in exploration and production of oil and gas through a production sharing regime, wherein the companies get to recover all their investment before sharing profits with the government. This regime has come in for criticism from official auditor Comptroller and Auditor General which feels it incentivises companies to keep raising capital cost so that government profit is postponed. Under the new regime being contemplated, companies will be asked to bid for oil and gas they will share with the government from the very first day of output. Companies bidding for the highest share will get license to explore. Once government is guaranteed the highest share, it will rid itself

organized by the Canada-India Business Council, he allayed fears of foreign investors about fiscal deficit. He said that India was committed to reducing its fiscal deficit and would achieve the target of 3 per cent in 2016-17. "India will reduce the fiscal deficit until we reach the target of 3 per cent in 2016-17 or perhaps a Finance Minister P Chidambaram little earlier," he added. of the current task of regulating Chidambaram said the final price of gas. reading of last year's fiscal deficit Chidambaram said the govern- would come to below 5.3 per cent. ment was keen on replacing the proReferring to bilateral trade and duction-sharing model for oil and investment between the countries, gas exploration with a revenue- Chidambaram said that while imshare model. ports and exports were roughly The new model is based on rec- matched in both directions (with ommendations of a panel headed by total trade approaching over USD C Rangarajan, Chairman of Prime 5 billion in 2012 as against USD 4 Minister's Economic Advisory billion in 2010), the same was not Council. This panel had also sug- true for bilateral direct investment. gested moving to a market deterOver 100 top executives of Camined prices for natural gas in five nadian companies, Nirmal Verma, years. Indian High Commissioner to For the intervening period, it sug- Canada; Stephen Beck, Canadian gested hybrid model of global High Commissioner to India; and benchmark gas price and imported top officials of Finance Ministry LNG. and banking sector attended the Earlier, at a breakfast meeting meeting.-PTI

Invest pacts can't be subject to foreign jurisdictions TORONTO: Indian Finance Minister P Chidambaram has made it clear that any bilateral investment protection agreement has to be subject to jurisdiction of domestic legal institutions and India will not allow it to be subjected to foreign courts or tribunals. "We cannot allow the highest court of the land to be subjected to any foreign courts or tribunals," Chidambaram said during a question answer session at a breakfast meeting organized by the CanadaIndia Business Council (C-IBC) here. "Will you allow the Supreme Court of Canada be subject to jurisdiction of any other court or tribunal?" Chidambaram asked the audience. The Minister was answering a question from Peter Sutherland, President and CEO of the CanadaIndia Business Council, who wanted to know the status of bilateral Foreign Investment Pro-

motion and Protection Agreement (FIPPA) treaty. The Minister said, "We have

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper

put Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPPA) on hold not only for Canada but other 83 countries too

because of two major legal issues: namely right of a foreign investor to sue a sovereign State in a commercial dispute, and jurisdiction. All agreements are under review." However, he assured the audience that both the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and FIPPA would become a reality soon. Referring to Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper's visit to India in November last year, Chidambaram said that India and Canada have longstanding bilateral relations, built upon shared traditions of democracy, pluralism and strong interpersonal connections with an Indian Diaspora of more than one million in Canada. This expanding bilateral relationship received further momentum in the past three to four years and was supported by a wide range of agreements between the two countries. -PTI

NGO alleges Govt interference in CBI probe NEW DELHI: An NGO has moved the Supreme Court seeking an SIT probe into alleged "blatant" interference by the Centre into the CBI probe of the coal block allocation scam. In its interim application, NGO Common Cause submitted that the

officers of the government attempted to mislead the court by stating that they had not seen the status report, when the same had been shown to them by the CBI. The NGO also submitted that the CBI officer who was supervising the investigation and who had

alleged "blatant interference" by the Government is not only unlawful and a criminal offence, it amounts to contempt of court and the same has to be probed by a special investigative team (SIT). It alleged that the CBI was not fit to probe the scam, as the agency at the instance of the government has "changed and diluted" a status report which it was to file before the apex court.

filed its affidavit was replaced during the course of the probe. It suggested that appointing a retired judge to head the SIT would help the court to monitor the case and add to the credibility of the probe by insulating it from political and corporate influences. Earlier, advocate M L Sharma on whose petition the CBI probe was ordered into the alleged irregularities in the coal block allocation, mentioned before a bench headed by Justice R M Lodha the issue of reported interference of government in the probe. The bench said since the matter is listed for hearing on April 30 there was no need of any indulgence by the court at the moment. It gave him liberty to file an application on the issue which could be taken up for hearing on the scheduled date of hearing. -PTI

It suggested that appointing a retired judge to head the SIT would help the court to monitor the case It also been alleged that law

TechBiz Post

India Post

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

GMR-Maldives arbitration to 94 pc Indian businesses plan to hire in 2013 commence next year MALE/NEW DELHI: Arbitration proceedings in the airport contract row between Maldives and GMR Group will commence in the middle of next year though an exact date has not been finalized yet. Maldives' Deputy Solicitor General Ahmed Usham, who represented the government in the preliminary hearing on the arbitration proceedings held in London

nature. We await the procedural orders from the panel". Haveeru reported that GMR had proposed to commence proceedings next April, while the government had proposed next September. It quoted Usham as saying that after deliberations, both sides agreed to start proceedings in June or July next year. "As arbitrators are really busy

â&#x20AC;&#x153;After the hearings, the arbitrators will consider the arguments of both sides and decide on the outcome", Usham said. In addition, it was also agreed to give GMR two months to respond to the propositions of the Maldivian government, he added on April 10, said both parties had agreed to commence proceedings by the middle of 2014 and were now waiting on arbitrators to confirm the exact schedule for when their respective cases would be presented, media reports in Male said. Asked about the meeting, a GMR spokesperson said in New Delhi that it was "the first meeting and primarily preliminary in

people, it will take a couple of days to decide on a final date to start the case. It has been agreed that the date would be in June or July of next year. The arbitrators will decide on the final date and inform us in the next couple of days," Usham said. He added that it was agreed to hold hearings in the case for a period of two weeks. "After the hearings, the arbitra-

tors will consider the arguments of both sides and decide on the outcome", Usham said. In addition, it was also agreed to give GMR two months to respond to the propositions of the Maldivian government, he added. Singapore National University Professor M Sonaraja will represent the Maldives government while GMR's arbitrator is former Chief Justice of UK, Lord Nicholas Edison Phillips. Meanwhile, retired senior British Judge, Lord Leonard Hubert Hoffman is the arbitrator mutually agreed by GMR and the government, the report said. The Maldives government had unilaterally terminated the 25 year contract with GMR Group last December to develop and operate Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (INIA). GMR had previously stated that it would seek USD 800 million as reparation from the Maldivian government. However, the Maldivian government had reiterated its claims that the airport operator agreement with GMR was "void ab initio" (invalid from the outset) and that the government does not have to bear any compensation for the termination. -PTI

Mahatma Gandhi among leaders most admired by CEOs NEW DELHI: Mahatma Gandhi figures among the top three most admired leaders of the world, said a global survey of CEOs conducted by accountancy firm PwC. While Winston Churchill tops the list of 10 most admired leaders, Gandhi figures in the third position after Steve Jobs (cofounder of Apple), said the 16th Annual Global CEO Survey. As part of its annual survey, PwC said it recently asked 1,400 CEOs from around the world "which leaders they most admired, and what they most admired about their actions". "Some clear types emerged: warriors, (Napoleon; Alexander the Great) reformers (Jack Welch), leaders through adversity (Win-

ston Churchill; Abraham Lincoln), leaders who caught the imagination of the masses (Mahatma Gandhi; Nelson Mandela) and consensus builders like Bill Clinton" PwC said in a statement.

Winston Churchill was the most popular choice of all CEOs with Steve Jobs admired in the most number of countries (37).

Churchill has wide appeal and popularity across Western Europe, coming top in France ahead of Charles de Gaulle and beating Niccolo Machiavelli to the top spot in Italy, PwC said. Twice-serving as British prime minister (1940-45; 1951-55) Churchill even manages a tie with Gandhi in Turkey, behind Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, it added. As per the PwC, Nelson Mandela, Jack Welch and Abraham Lincoln, were at the 4th, 5th and 6th positions, respectively. PwC said 15 women were named, of whom Margaret Thatcher was the only one to make the top ten (7th position). The former British Prime Minister, know as the iron lady, died recently. -PTI

NEW DELHI: India Inc seems to be optimistic about their hiring intentions for 2013 as 94 per cent of the businesses are planning to increase their headcount, according to a survey. The survey conducted by workplace solutions provider Regus among more than 26,000 businesses in nearly 100 nations, including India, revealed that most of the recruitment is expected in sales and marketing segments. The Regus global business confidence index for India stood at 137 points in April, suggesting a stable score. However, it has slipped four points since October 2012. "...94 per cent of Indian businesses are planning to increase or

uted to higher revenues and increased profit reported by the Indian companies in the past one year. The survey noted that nearly two-fifths (39 per cent) of businesses plan to increase headcount by more than five per cent. Interestingly, 67 per cent of respondent are planning to recruit employees in sales and marketing verticals and 49 per cent in operational staff. "....Companies feel it's the right time to go out there and sell. These results suggest that sales and marketing professional will be in high demand in the coming months," Regus Vice President (South Asia) Madhusudan Thakur said. "Businesses need to consider how to recruit and retain the best

maintain headcount in 2013," the survey noted. Globally, 85 per cent of businesses surveyed are planning to increase or maintain their headcount in 2013. The robust hiring intentions of Indian employers could be attrib-

in the field, ensuring they can remain competitive in their market," he added. The survey said that 63 per cent of Indian businesses has reported rise in revenues and 54 per cent posted increased in profits over the past twelve-month. -PTI

AAI to set up high-tech R&D and training facility NEW DELHI: In a bid to develop in-house capabilities in air navigation services, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has tied up with a renowned American technology provider to set up a high-tech research, development and training facility in Hyderabad. The proposed technical centre would provide comprehensive laboratory capabilities to support AAI's daily air traffic management operations and maintenance, besides carrying out performance analysis and R&D. The AAI and the MITRE Corporation have signed two agreements to establish the Hyderabad

centre and for transfer of technology and knowledge. Among this would be a sophisticated technology to train air traffic controllers (ATC), called 'Human-in-the-Loop' (HITL) computer simulation capability, AAI officials said. HITL simulation is a virtual, real-time ATC simulation that requires human interaction with airborne and ground automation to manage air traffic in an operational scenario. It helps identify ATC problems, develops solutions for them and achieving cost-efficient deployment of the new solutions. -PTI

Datebook

April 26, 2013

India Post 15

www.indiapost.com

NEW JERSEY

NEW YORK

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Upcoming

ILLINOIS

Upcoming

Sun May 19 • Soorya Festival Sangamam Venue: Woodbridge High School, 750 St Georges Ave, Woodbridge Township, NJ 07095 Time: 5:00 pm Contact: (800)-213-7080

Sat Apr 27

• Bharat Matrimony Spark Event: Hindu Singles at Pranna

Sunday April 28 • Prince of Carnatic Music Sikkil Gurucharan Concert

Venue: Pranna, 79 Madison Avenue(Corner of 28th Street), New York City, NY 10003 Time: 6:00 pm Contact: 646-481-1687

Venue: Stanford Dinkelspiel Auditorium, 471 Lagunita Dr, Stanford, CA 94305 Time: 10.30 am to 2.00 pm Contact: 408-806-9142

Wed Apr 24

• NRITHYOPANAYANA – Healing through Dance

Sun May 5

Venue: Lawrence High School Auditorium, 2525 Princeton Pike, Lawrence, NJ 08648 Time: 3:30 pm Contact: 609-912-0951

Venue: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at 95th Street, New York, NY 10025 Time: 7:00 pm Contact: 212-545-7536

Sun Apr 28

Fri May 10

• 17th Muslim singles networking event

• Soorya Festival New York

Venue: Adria Hotel & Conference Center, 22117 Northern Blvd, New York, NY 11361 Time: 3:00 pm Contact:516-840-0396

• Masters of Indian Music

Venue: Radio City Music Hall, 1260 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10020 Time: 6:00 pm Contact: 832 643 9131

Sat April 27 • Lil' Krishna Kidz -Ramayana Festival 2013 Venue: SScott Lane Elementary School, 1925 Scott Blvd, Santa Clara, CA 95050 Time: 3:00 pm Contact: 408-729-8634

Sat April 27 to Fri May 3 Discourses by Swami Mukundananda • Bhagavad Geeta for Everyday Living Venue: Sunnyvale Hindu Temple, 420-450 Persian Drive, Sunnyvale CA 94089 Time: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm

• Essence of Spirituality Venue: Fremont Hindu Temple, 3676 Delaware Drive, Fremont, CA 94538 Time: Sat: 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, Sun: 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm, Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri: 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm, Tue: 8:15 pm to 9:15 pm Prasadam: Prasadam will be served after the program May 4th (Sat) to May 10

• Regular

On-going Bal-mukund

Class Venue: 3839, Heriatage Terrace #232, Fremont, CA Contact: 510-794-3368, Email: babitarpur@gmail.com • Regular On-going Satsang: Contact: 408-594-8197 Email: lisamousum@gmail.com, 510-573-2288 Email: karuna101_sharma@yahoo.com

Sat May 18 • Antakshari Venue: Haveli Cuisine Of India, 17221 Pioneer Blvd, Artesia, CA 90701 Time: 3:00 pm Contact: 818-749-6360

Fri, Apr 26 • Sunidhi Chauhan & Ali Zafar's Krazy live in Chicago

Sat, APR 27

Venue: Sears Centre Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates - Chicago, IL 60192 Time: 8:30 pm Contact: 773-764-7576

• Filmy Eshtyle - Kyun ke Style mein rehne ka!!

Sat May 4

Venue: Bombay Exotic Cuisine of India, 3960 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92103 Time: 10:00 pm Contact: 657-622-1161

Sat, May 11 • Vaanga Pazhagalaam Venue: Hoover School Auditorium, 3501 Country Club Dr, Lakewood, CA 90712 Time: 3:00 pm Contact: 310-213-7342

ATLANTA Upcoming Sunday, May 12 • Mother's Day Extravaganza Venue: Corner of Santa Fe Mall, 3750 Venture Dr, Duluth, GA 30096 Time: 2:00PM Contact: 404-806-1429

Fri Apr 26 • Paresh Rawal in Double Roll Venue: GWCC in Sidney Marcus Auditorium, 285 Andrew Young International Blvd, NW, Atlanta, GA 30313 Time: 8:45 pm Contact: 404-786-7860

• South Asian Classical Music Venue: DePaul University Concert Hall 800 W. Belden, Chicago Time: 3:00 p.m Contact: email: sacms.chicago@gmail.com

Fri, May 17 • Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan live in Chicago Venue: Sears Centre Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates - Chicago, IL 60192 Time: 8:30 pm Contact: 773-262-1222 • J K Yog, Chicago - Swami Mukundananda Chicago Satsang Information: J K Yog Satsang and Bal Mukund Hindi Classes are held every 2nd and 4rth Sunday of Month 330pm-530pm @ Clarion Inn/ Waterford Banquets, Board Room, 933 South Riverside Drive, Elmhurst, IL 60126 Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630561-4807 -Website: www.jkyog.org

• Dhoop Chaoon's Annual Entertainment Show

Chicago Children's Bal Mukund Character Building Program and Hindi Literacy Classes- Bal Mukund Classes are held every 1st and 3rd Sunday of Month 11am-1pm @ Vogelei Center, 650 W. Higgins Road, Hoffmann Estates, IL 60192 (Next to Nissan Dealership)

Venue: Berkmar High School, 405 Pleasant Hill Rd, Lilburn, GA 30047 Time: 7:00 pm Contact: 404-513-9926

Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630561-4807 - Website: www.jkyog.org/balmukund

Sat Apr 27

Desi News Truth will surface, says Anand Jon COLLEEN LONG

NEW YORK: Fashion designer Anand Jon Alexander has been portrayed as a predator and monster in coast-to-coast cases accusing him of raping aspiring models he lured to his apartment with the promise of fame. But here's how Alexander sees himself: an accomplished artist featured on "America's Next Top Model" who once worked with the likes of Paris Hilton, a practitioner of yoga, an admitted philanderer but not a criminal. "We were all searching for companionship. We were all searching for success," he said during a jailhouse interview with The Associated Press. "The expectations were different. We got so caught up in the whole hype." Details on page 23

Kids enjoy learning from youth at Star camp UJJWALA

FREMONT: It was perfect outdoor weather on the first day of the spring break in Fremont. A group of about 45 kids ranging from grade 2 to 6 got up early and headed to the activity planned by their parents. They were not headed to any park or a museum or a beach. At the same time, about 8 high schoolers also woke up early excited to start their day. They were not headed to a mall or to a movie or an amusement park.

COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA

16 India Post

www.indiapost.com

The material world is like God's penitentiary Details on page 22

April 26, 2013

Ro Khanna kicks off Congressional campaign with 'Rally with Ro' India Post News Service

FREMONT: Congressional candidate Ro Khanna joined hundreds of grassroots supporters from across California's 17th district to mark the official launch of his campaign to represent Bay Area residents in Washington. The "Rally with Ro" event highlighted the former Obama Administration official's ideas for creating jobs, strengthening our economy, and putting the forwardthinking approach of Silicon Valley to work fighting for the interests of area residents. "I share your frustration with the partisan gridlock and Wash-

ington special interests that are blocking our progress and keeping us from solving the big problems facing our communities," said Khanna. "If elected, I will search for common ground while bringing fresh ideas to the table - so we can attack our problems instead of each other." The rally at Cupertino's DeAnza College comes on the heels of the widely-covered video announcement released by the campaign earlier this month. Drawing a diverse crowd of Bay Area voters, the "Rally with Ro" featured student and labor leaders and a performance by a local dance troupe. Two members of the Ro for

Ro Khanna addressing the rally

Congress Executive Committee offered remarks as part of the day's activities: longtime local labor leader Sergio Santos and former Khanna student at Stanford University Lindsay Lamont. "Ro understands that business and government make decisions that have a huge impact on middle-class families - and he isn't afraid to roll up his sleeves to get results," said Santos, who was

Details on page 20

Bollywood coming to Chicago with a bang

president of United Auto Workers Local 2244 for two decades and served as Community Labor Liaison for the NUMMI Re-Employment Center. "After the NUMMI closure in Fremont, Ro worked through the Commerce Department and fought for the economic development grant that helped create new manufacturing jobs in our community. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 19

RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service

CHICAGO: The Al Capone fame city of Chicago has well outlived its past and is known more now for cultural and economic cohesion and development rather than crime and punishment. And there could not be a better demonstration or proof of this change than it getting the distinction of being the first city outside India to celebrate 100 years of Indian cinema, now more famously known as Bollywood The lead is taken by a diminutive business entrepreneur and showman Saiyed Monty who with his Vibrant Media Group. Details on page 24

BAPS Women's Conference highlights Hindu traditions India Post News Service

CHINO HILLS, CA: Committed to the progress and growth of women worldwide, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha celebrated its sixth annual Women's Conference in Chino Hills, California on Saturday, March 30. Over 415 women of all ages were in attendance at the conference which focused on this year's theme of "Timeless Traditions: Celebrating the Past, Cultivating the Future". The conference focused on understanding the glory of Hindu traditions, communicat-

ing them with ease, and nurturing future generations by preserving a priceless culture and traditions.

on the various subjects. Nidhi Turakhia, a teacher, connected with the audience through convey-

ing with emphasis on truth (satya) and compassion, and how those values have guided

Various speakers shared insights from their personal experiences and related to the audience

ing her personal pride of her Hindu heritage. She spoke of the cherished values of her upbring-

her in all situations of daily life. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 19

April 26, 2013

Community Across America

India Post 17

www.indiapost.com

Kirtan Darbar & Nagar Kirtan mark Vaisakhi in LA India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: Like every year, the Vaisakhi Kirtan Darbar was held at Convention Center in

Los Angeles on April 7. It started at 7:45 a.m. with musical Jaap Sahib Kirtan and then it was followed by Baljeet Singh from Apple Valley Gurdwara and by Jatinder Singh from Dashmesh Gurdwara. From 8:40 to 11:00 Kirtan was done by Ujlaldidar Singh Memorial Foundation Children, Punjabi Gurmeet School, Walnut Gurdwara, Santa Hanna Punjabi Children School, Valley Sikh Temple Punjabi School, Riverside

Gurdwara, Khalsa Care Foundation, Guru Ram Das Ashram Khalsa youth Group, Guru Ram Das Ashram Celestial Communication, students of Raj Academy, Gurmeet Singh students of Los Angles and Mughal Jathas Buena Park Gurdwara Bhai Mardana Institute Jatha Bhai Mardana Academy. Then from 11:00 to 12:16 Ragi Jathas of Southern California performed Kirtan including Bhai Naid Singh from Riverside, Bhai Surjeet Singh, New Buena Park Gurdwara, Bhai Nirmal Singh Valley Sikh Temple, International Institute of Gurmat Studies, Bhai Ajit Singh Nimana from Ventura Gurdwara, Bhai Bhupinder Singh from Sikh

Temple Alhambra, and Bhai Gurdeep Singh from Lankershim Gurdwara. A message in a letter to the congregation was given from Bhai

Sahiba Bibi Inderjit Kaur and Suri Sukhwinder Sahiba Sardarni Guru Amrit Kaur Khalsa. Also Kirtan was done by Bhai Dharam Veer Singh from Sikh temple Palm Springs. Amongst the VIPs who addressed the congregation were US congressman Judy Chu, California State Controller John Chiang and Los Angles city councilman Dennis Zine and also Kirtan was done by Bhai Teja Singh from Sikh Center Santa Anna. The spirit of Baisakhi awards were given to Mohinder Singh of India Journal, Khalsa Care foundation, volunteers of Khalsa Care Foundation Sardar Didar Singh dance by Jathar Singh, Simran Kaur Khalsa, Siri Kaur Khalsa, Gurbarkar Singh Kaseem, and Sri Guru Singh Sabha, Walnut, There was an interesting show of Kirtan by five Jathas together. and by Kirtan Jatha of Buena Park Gurdwara, Guru Nanak Sikh Temple of Buena Park Bhai Jatinder Singh and his Jatha. Congregation was also addressed by Dr. Amrit Singh, a cardiologist from Long Beach. He mentioned that Kakar keeping started from Guru Nanak Dev Ji. When Mardana joined Guru Nanak Dev Ji during his preaching, he was instructed not to cut his hair anytime, not to sing any other song on his instruments except Gurbani and not to use any illicit

drugs. A mela like picture was formed by the Indian community vendors displaying dresses, jewelry, and Punjab history. There was a great camaraderie between the participants. There were endless refreshments of pakoras, gulab jamuns, tea and Guru ka Langer. All gurdwaras of Southern California contributed for the Langer and various locals volunteered the help. After the prayer and conclu-

sion of the function, the huge gathering of the Sikhs outside the convention center gathered before marching for a Sikh Parade - Nagar Kirtan. The Sikh Parade included various groups of martial arts of Sikhs, that is Gatkas. There was continued Kirtan and recitation of God's name during the parade. Earlier there was a Sikhs baptization ceremony of Amrit Sanchar at Guru Ram Das Ashram. The Vaisakhi program was

planned and conducted by Kirtan Singh. Floats service was done at Khalsa Care Foundation under the superb guidance and leadership of Gurdip Singh Malik, who showed outstanding dedication. Bhai Sahib Satpal Singh Khalsa, Chairman of Guru Ram Das Sikh Mission of America (GRDSMA) and "Ambassador of Sikh Dharma" in the USA, greeted everyone attending the Baisakhi celebrations.

18 India Post

Community Across America

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

Vasanthi displays magical touch of Hatha Yoga RITU MAHESHWARI India Post News Service

PALO ALTO, CA: There is lot more than physical well being for someone to be healthy and happy. Hatha Yoga helps balance physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual systems of a person to stay healthy in all aspects. "The Magical Touch of Hatha Yoga" was a workshop organized at the Jewish Community Center here by Vasanthi Bhat, a committed and Vasanthi Bhat describing Hatha Yoga's talented practitioner and background and benefits teacher of Hatha Yoga. She has been helping people to learn and benefit from showcasing the Hatha Yoga and its benefits to community. It Hatha Yoga for past 38 years. The program was dedicated to started with Om Chanting, fol-

lowed by a short invocation dance by Ramya Ramesh (certified teacher of Vasantha Yoga), choreographed with intricate yoga postures. Chief Guest Talat Hasan, Founding Chair ICC, shared her personal experiences and benefits derived from practicing Vasantha Yoga. It was followed by a section where children performed Yoga while teaching it to parents. It filled the hall with serene and spiritual atmosphere. Youth and adult students also demonstrated advanced Yoga. Solo demonstration by Vasanthi Bhat was the highlight of the program. A quick demonstration of allergy relief techniques by Vasanthi's grandchildren was also included. Dr Jayashree Joshi commented on the benefits of Hatha Yoga for diabetes, hypertension, kidney ail-

Talat Hasan, Chief Guest narrating her personal experience and benefits she derived by practicing Hatha Yoga

ments, thyroid, and for the entire body. This was followed by back pain relief segments. Dr. Krishna Bhat, Physiatrist from North Carolina, commented on the postures with physiological basis for the benefits. Pradeep Joshi, former ICC Program Director, acknowledged Bhat's continuing volunteer ser-

Vasanthi Bhat performing intricate Yoga demonstration

vices to seniors since 1995. To commemorate the occasion, two senior groups from Cupertino Senior Center and Cupertino India Community Center demonstrated many yoga postures. It was also a feast to see some seniors over 90 years practicing yoga like young adults. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 20

Sunidhi Chauhan rocks the Bay Area

Sunidhi Chauhan singing a hit song

RITU MAHESHWARI India Post News Service

wherein they perform four free surgeries for each paid one, is giving hope to multitude of poor. SEF also aims to establish 20 hospitals by 2020.

FREMONT: There is a famous saying "Netra Daan, Maha Daan". Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 27 It means gift of vision is best charity one can do. Sankara Eye Foundation (SEF) has been doing exactly that since 1998. Co-founded by Mr. Murali Krishnamurthy, SEF has been aggressively working towards providing eye care, which was h i t h e r t o unaffordable and unreachable to most of Indian population. Their Sundhi Chauhan and Ali Zafar singing a duet aim of 80/20,

April 26, 2013

Community Across America

India Post 19

www.indiapost.com

BAPS Women's Conference highlights Hindu traditions Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 16

She stressed the role of her Hindu background in forming her healthy and proud Hindu-American identity and provided examples of many successful Hindu-Ameri-

can women who have done the same. In highlighting her sense of pride, she also reminded the audience that the upcoming challenge is now to embed this same sense of pride in future generations. Her talk linked the audience to a priceless heritage and served as a reminder of the traditions and values of their upbringing. As Hinduism is not just a religion, but also a way of life, Komal Parikh, a marketing strategist, spoke about living that way of life with pride and conveying it with comfort and confidence. She stressed the importance of having knowledge and understanding behind one's religion, traditions, and values. In doing so, one can become a true ambassador of Hinduism and the Hindu way of life, better enabled to answer questions and clarify misconceptions. Roma Patel, a project manager, made the case for preserving these values, traditions, and culture and presented realistic, actionable methods to practice and preserve them for future generations. Through personal stories and realistic examples, she illustrated

how to incorporate traditions in one's daily routines to maintain culture with language, music, and other practices. She shared special ways one can celebrate Hindu holidays and festivals, which not only provide families with joy but more importantly, knowledge of the history and purpose behind them. The most instrumental tool shared in all the testimonials was "family time". This one tool was stressed in order to maintain the Hindu family centric values based on shared sacrifices, and to pass on traditions and culture with solid historical foundations. Women of all generations attended the conference, each group finding inspiration in the talks for the current phase of their lives and finding priorities to help shape their future. Kumair Bauri, a mother of young children shared, "I think this event is beneficial because it teaches mothers that we have to keep on going and keep our traditions going on forever and ever, we have to lay the stones and our children will put more stones

on top." Shruti Kabhavna, sharing her thoughts said, "This event was really an eye opener for myself, being in India and then coming here as a teenager, what helped keep me grounded was my parents and my roots. It really showed how important it is to stay connected to your roots." Not only did the

Ro Khanna kicks off Congressional campaign with 'Rally with Ro' Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 16

That is exactly the type of person we need in Washington fighting for us." "As a teacher, Ro always stressed to us the importance of being innovators and gaining the skills needed to be successful in a 21st century economy," said Lamont, a senior at Stanford University and former student of Ro. "I took those lessons to heart - and I think we need his kind of leadership to make education work better for everyone who is competing for the jobs of the future." With Silicon Valley's distinct status as a world leader in technology and innovation, Ro is running for Congress to ensure the district has a representative who understands the challenges of competing in a global economy. Ro will use his experience as a manufacturing expert and a longtime tech-

nology attorney at one of the area's most prominent firms to promote policies that increase the nation's exports; incentivize firms to hire workers here at home; and boost advanced manufacturing to advocate for the type of common-sense policies that will grow the economy and create new jobs. A longtime Bay Area resident, Ro returned to Fremont after serving as Deputy Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Department of Commerce in the Obama Administration. He is currently a Silicon Valley technology lawyer, professor of economics at Stanford University, and professor of law at Santa Clara University. Ro's book on manufacturing, Entrepreneurial Nation: Why Manufacturing is Still Key to America's Future, has won widespread praise for its strategies for keeping the best companies, jobs and opportunities in America.

attendees experience a rejuvenation of pride in their heritage, they felt more informed to better represent their faith and values. Among the distinguished guests present at the conference was. Anupama Kizhakkeveettil, who is an Ayurvedic practitioner and licensed acupuncturist. Kizhakkeveettil also serves as a lead instructor for the Ayurveda Program at the Southern California University of Health Sciences. Also present at the conference was Dr. Falguni Doshi, who is the current assistant physician in charge at the Kaiser Permanente in Anaheim, California. The conference concluded with a traditional Hindu prayer for peace. Attendees enjoyed the opportunity to network and socialize with one another during a post-

conference reception. Participants noted the importance of holding an event focused on women and returning attendees were particularly pleased to see the continuation of discussions related to a popular theme such as 'Timeless Traditions'. BAPS, drawing inspiration from His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj, holds this annual conference as a stage to allow discussion of various topics important to women in society and to serve as a conduit for empowering women of all ages. This year, 10 such conferences were hosted by BAPS across North America. Many women felt enriched by the discussion and identified the importance of implementing the message in their lives, particularly with their future generations.

20 India Post

Community Across America

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

Kids enjoy learning from youth at Star camp UJJWALA

FREMONT: It was perfect outdoor weather on the first day of the spring break in Fremont. A group of about 45 kids ranging from grade 2 to 6 got up early and

learn from youth rather than grown-ups. They connected instantaneously and developed a great bond of friendship. At this camp

headed to the activity planned by their parents. They were not headed to any park or a museum or a beach. At the same time, about 8 high schoolers also woke up early excited to start their day. They were not headed to a mall or to a movie or an amusement park. Both the groups converged at Fremont Hindu Temple, cheerful and simultaneously anxious, for the first day of the 'Star test prep camp' organized by Cherish. The camp was held on all the five days of the break. The students enjoyed each day and were delighted to

they were given rigorous practice as well as personal coaching. Most students are now eagerly waiting for the next camp. Cherish has promised them many such camps in summer break. The youth volunteers also had a great experience at the camp. Many of them have expressed their feedback: Rutu, a Freshman at Mission San Jose High School says: The STAR test prep camp held from April 1st-5th at the Fremont Hindu Temple by Cherish was a grand success. Children till grade 6 ar-

rived expecting a boring torturous study camp. They did not want to spend their spring break doing practice tests, but their views changed completely after the first day. I was the tutor for the fourth graders. They were difficult at first, but soon learned to appreciate my efforts and took initiative to listen. Teaching them gave me great joy. We had our laughs, but got down to business. With the multiple practice packets, lessons, and guidance I gave, they are guaranteed a perfect or close to perfect score this spring. The camp was an amazing experience that I would come back to do again, and hopefully all the children would too. If not to learn, maybe just for the delicious fresh cut fruits given at snack time. Varsha, a Freshman at Mission San Jose High School: It was fun volunteering and I had a pleasant experience teaching the kids. I enjoyed working with the kids. The kids learned a lot in this camp and so did I. I am sure the Star Test Prep was helpful for the kids. It is a good practicing and drill session for them. Given an opportunity, I would love to volunteer in such similar sessions.

Priyanka, a Junior at Mission San Jose High school: I believe that it was an exciting new experience, and that it gives apprecia-

tion to all of those around us. It also allows students to be completely in charge, which turns out fantastic. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 22

Vasanthi displays magical touch of Hatha Yoga Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 18

Dr Murali Moorthy, Orthopedic Surgeon from Walnut Creek, explained the physiology of foot and how specific yoga postures benefit the feet related ailments. Therapeutic yoga was addressed by Vasanthi Bhat explaining how differently one can alter the classic Hatha Yoga routines to meet individual needs and limitations. Throughout the program, Vasanthi Bhat showed the audience how to relax with Pranayama, meditation and deep relaxation together with gentle stretching while sitting on a chair or standing. She made the program interactive by involving the audience in Yoga moves. Program participants were very excited and eager to reap the benefits that Hatha Yoga provides. Meenakshi, a participant was very impressed with Vasanthi's Yoga teaching skills and skills acquired by her students. Kamala and Vijaya Joshi were mesmerized by the happiness and spiritual smile that comes from

Adults demonstrating Yoga

Yoga. They wanted to try Turtle pose daily to reap the benefits. Arvind Bhargava liked the per-

formance by seniors. He said Vasanthi will make sure we grow old gracefully too.

Prema Santhanam found Vasanthi's solo performance amazing. She thought intricate yoga

Young students performing Yoga

postures were unbelievable. The event was very well organized and perfectly coordinated.

April 26, 2013

Community Across America

India Post 21

www.indiapost.com

Unity Dinner by Indo American Community Federation

Dr Sudarshan Kapoor, Dr Harmesh Kumar, Mr Bakshi, Mr Inder Singh, Guest, and Mr Kewal Kanda at Gadar Seminar

RITU MAHESHWARI India Post News Service

FREMONT: Unity Dinner organized by Jeevan Zutshi, Founder of IACF, for past

twelve years has been an annual gala, bringing leaders from different walks of community together to celebrate cultural diversity and promote community development. This year, the event was held a Hilton,

Sreedhara Murthy, Ashok Rattehalli, Guest, Neil Sankar, BV Muralidhara, BV Jagadeesh and Chandru Bhambra at Unity Dinner

Communities unite for Tony Mendoza fundraiser India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: Federation of Indian Community of Southern California organized a fundraiser for Tony Mendoza on his election fight for State Senate, at the Haveli Restaurant, Artesia. It was a well attended meeting by various community leaders. Chairman Dilip Butani started the meeting introducing Tony Mendoza followed by a brief speech by the President Amrit Bhandari. They both invited various speakers one by one, who all spoke highly about Tony. Tony then spoke giving details about his election plans followed by a speech by Kenya Parham. Those who spoke included Tony Mendoza with Dilip Butani & other FICSC leaders Mohan Sharma, K V Kumar, Sam Bhogal, Kishan Hingorani, Kewal Kanda, Aparna Hande, Vasu Pawar, The speeches were followed by music Vineeta Vineet, Mike Raja, Keshav Patel and session by Dr Kailash Dhamija, Bhavin Manu Patel. Mehta, Veena Singh and Sheela Bhandari.

Fremont. It focused on highlighting the valor, sacrifices and efforts of 'Gadar movement'. Gadar movement started in 1913 when a few young Indian-origin people decided to do something about India's freedom. This year is the 100th anniversary of the Gadar Movement. IACF-USA affiliate GOPIO (International) worked with Government of India in getting Gadar heroes the recognition for their part in India's freedom movement. The event started with a seminar to highlight Gadar Movement contribution to India's freedom. The seminar was well attended by local dignitaries and people who were Senate Majority Leader recognizing Jeevan Zutshi for part of Gadar movement. Jeevan community involvement Zutshi said that the seminar and main event will go a long way in creating awareness among local community tems, an enterprising entrepreneur and phito the sacrifices made by Gadar heroes. lanthropist, extolled Indian cultural values Unity Dinner key note speaker B.V. and contributions made by non residents Jagadeesh, President & CEO - 3Leaf Sys- to the community.

22 India Post

Community Across America

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

The material world is like Get ready for melodies old & new God's penitentiary

n the path of spirituality when people engage in devotion to God, many doubts linger around in the mind. Most often these doubts question the very divinity of God and potentially cripple our devotion. For example Lord Krishna's divine pastimes are commonly analyzed by people who use their material intellect to comprehend His divinity and thereafter find faults in Him. Sincere spiritual aspirants should refrain from such intellectual deliberations and instead focus on perfecting their devotion. He Devotion is the process of making divine sentiments towards God and its foundation is faith in the divinity of God. With that faith, we can harbor divine sentiments, in our mind and intellect, towards His names, forms, virtues, pastimes, abodes and saints. One must remember that if a doubt arises regarding God's divinity, it strikes at the very foundation of our palace of devotion. Shree Krishna states, Janma karma cha me divyamevam… (Bhagavad Geeta 4.9) He says that if you can understand the divinity of God's birth and activities, then doubts that hinder devotion will not arise, and your love for God will grow quickly. As a result you will be released from this realm of life and death. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions on understanding God's extraordinary personality and pastimes using our ordinary intellect and nurturing our devotion. Question: We hear the word "Divine" repeatedly mentioned in your satsangs. Can you please explain what is Divine? Swami Mukundananda: Divine is that which is God-like in nature.

no experience till date of anything truly divine, and so how will it understand the word. Let us say, we were to explain the sweetness of a Rasgulla (Indian sweet made from paneer) to a worm living on the Neem tree, how would we do that? If the worm tells us that he has never tasted anything sweet like sugar, honey or jaggery, because all his life he has tasted only bitter Neem leaves. We would simply be perplexed to explain the sweetness of a Rasgulla to such a worm. Similarly, the materially bound soul has only experienced the

India Post News Service

In his position as Executive head of the State, he has merely come for an administrative inspection of the prison house. Although all three are in the prison, yet there is a stark contrast in their status. We cannot make a blanket statement that everyone in the prison house is a convict; or that they all are Wardens; or that everyone in jail is a Governor. They are all standing in the jailhouse, but in different capacities. Similarly, this material world is like God's penitentiary. Three kinds of people are present here: 1. The materially bound souls,

Kids enjoy learning from youth at Star camp Cont’d from page 20

Swami Mukundananda

world of Maya all its life. It has never experienced even a speck of the Divine realm of God. So no Saint can truly explain the nature of Divine to us. Let it suffice to say that it is not material; it is of the nature of God. Q: Everybody in the material plane is under the influence of Maya. If God descends in the world, wouldn't He also come under the influence of Maya? SM: Understand the answer to your question through the analogy of a jailhouse. There are three kinds of personalities in a prison house:

We cannot make a blanket statement that whoever is in the material world is a materially bound soul; or that everyone here is a God-realized Saint; or that all residents of this world are God. They have their own status and personality God is divine and anything connected with Him and possessing His nature is also divine. However, the absolute import of the word cannot be understood in the materially conditioned state. The materially bound soul has only experienced the realm of Maya since infinite lifetimes. It has

Singh, Sanjeev Kumar, Mandeep Singh, Seema Verma, Jaya Satish, Steve Balram Singh, and Jagdish Unique Production will present Moorjani. Alka Bhatnagar is founder guru " Ek Haseen Shaam Aapke Naam of "Sur Bahar" a ", a concert on May premier music 4 at Mehran Restauschool in the Bay rant in Newark startArea. She is a multiing 7:30 pm. The faceted, highly acprogram is full of complished vocalist melodies old and with a Masters denew featuring gree in Music. Alka Bollywood, Ghazals is recognized as a and the latest singer of eminence songs. This show who has succeeded fulfills everyone's in mingling the fintaste and choices. est nuances of clasBollywood-level sical music with an musicians from LA element of moderand Chicago are Alka Bhatnagar nity with her imagicoming to grace the native improvisations. Alka is comoccasion. This top-quality program will mitted to keeping up India's rich feature the Bay Area's most popu- heritage of music and art. This will be a happy, memolar singers including Alka Bhatnagar, Raj Sohal, Jatinder rable, and unforgettable evening. RITU MAHESHWARI

SWAMI MUKUNDANANDA

1. The convicts who are serving their term there. They have been incarcerated against their will. 2. The Warden and employees of the penitentiary. They are not imprisoned, yet out of their own volition, they freely move in and out of the jail. 3. The Governor of the State.

who have been put in this cycle of life and death because they have turned their backs towards God. 2. The God-realized Saints who are outside the bondage of Maya, but have come into the world just to help the materially bound souls. 3. God Himself, the Proprietor of the jailhouse of Maya, who occasionally takes an Avatar and descends in the world to accomplish some special work. As in the previous example, we cannot make a blanket statement that whoever is in the material world is a materially bound soul; or that everyone here is a God-realized Saint; or that all residents of this world are God. They have their own status and personality. Hence, God does descend on the earth, and that is what we call "Avatar," but it does not mean that He becomes bound by Maya, like us. Maya paraityabhimukhe cha… ( Shreemad Bhagavatam 2.7.47) "Maya feels ashamed to even stand before God." Thus, there is no question of God coming under the grips of Maya. Q: Many times we read the leelas (pastimes) of God but we are unable to understand the purpose behind them. Why does God do such strange leelas on earth? Cont’d on page 25

Our adult volunteers also had a very good experience. Pooja says: The turnout was great. The students practiced the concepts found on the Star test. They had a great opportunity to ask and learn from the parent volunteers and high school students. Each class was divided based on their grades and had fun working with their groups. Overall, it was an enriching experience for the students who worked together, made new friends, mastered some old con-

Jasmine, a Sophomore at Irvington High School: Teaching these kids was a great honor and was an amazing experience. Helping these elementary school kids impacted not only them, but me as well. I could tell they learned many things by asking many questions and it felt like they wanted to be there. Seeing their smiling faces ready to learn everyday made me realize that I should help volunteer for tutoring more and more. Teaching Teaching them was a great them was a great experi- experience because not ence because not only only they learned many they learned many things, but I also things, but I also learned learned many things many things such as how to such as how to interact with a variety of kids and interact with a variety of kids and personalities as well personalities as well. I myself, and as well as many of the other volunteers cepts and learned new too. Well learned a lot from this. We all done! Ekta says: I worked as volunadapted pretty quickly and focused on what they wanted to ac- teer teaching 2nd grade in Fremont complish during that week and we temple in Star test camp along with tried our best to help them reach some high school kids. My son their goal. From learning new Sarthak, 3rd grader, was also a stuthings, interacting with these won- dent there. I and my son had a derful kids, and having the occa- wonderful experience. They are sional laugh here and there with doing an excellent work. We both the kids, I could say that tutoring leaned a lot and enjoyed a lot. I them was one of the most fun, cher- would not hesitate to join again. ishing, and best experiences I, and Now I can say my son is ready for star testing. the kids, have had.

April 26, 2013

Community Across America

India Post 23

www.indiapost.com

Truth will surface, says Anand Jon COLLEEN LONG

tured on "America's Next Top Model" who once worked with the likes of Paris Hilton, a practitioner of yoga, an admitted philanderer but not a criminal. "We were all searching for companionship. We were all searching for success," he said during a jailhouse interview with The Associated Press. "The expectations were different. We got so caught up in the whole hype." The 38-year-old is lanky, with a

wide grin, thick black hair stylishly cut and Buddy Holly glasses tucked into the front of his drab prison jumpsuit. He is relaxed and articulate as he explains why he believes he was a victim and says his conviction and sentence of 59 years to life will be overturned based on new evidence that he says exposes a conspiracy. "I have 100 percent faith and confidence that I will be freed," Alexander said shortly after a court appearance in Manhattan, one of several jurisdictions where he's faced criminal charges. Alexander was on the brink of fame and fortune, living a fast life of women, celebrities and travel, until allegations surfaced in 2007 that he was preying on wannabe models, some as young as 14, by offering them a window into the industry. During this era, he said, he wasn't good at separating business from pleasure. He dated multiple women at once; most he met online. They traveled with him and stayed with him in his apartments in New York and Beverly Hills. Many of

these women would later go on to accuse him of forcing them to perform lurid sex acts. Alexander willingly admits he was a lousy, selfish boyfriend who was taking advantage of his newfound fame. "My culture created the Kama Sutra," the Kerala, India-born Alexander said, referring to an ancient Hindu text on sexual behavior. "Sex is not something that intimidates me." But he said he didn't force women into anything. While he was working on a deal to take his brand public, he says, the conspiracy was growing slowly around him, made up of angry, bitter women who felt partially responsible for his success and wanted more than he was giving them. "It was all about me and my brand. I spoiled a lot of relationships," he said. "Some of the things - the speed of the lifestyle, how much I affected them emotionally - I can understand how some of these people were hurt." Los Angeles prosecutors have a different take. Alexander was convicted there in 2008 on more than a dozen counts, including rape and multiple counts of committing a lewd act on a child. Alexander was found not guilty of four felonies and jurors could not reach a verdict on three counts. He was sentenced to 59 years to life. A trial appeal was denied.

What they didn't have during trial were email exchanges between some of the women that Alexander and his defense say prove they were conspiring. Alexander says he now has messages that show they were recruiting women for the case. The messages discuss false promises, money and how he "pressured them," which isn't a crime, his defense said. Alexander says they hacked into his MySpace page. He says they didn't have enough to get prosecutors interested, so they trolled for more women online and

because district attorney investigators intercepted the juror before he could meet with Sanjana Jon, who was wearing a wire. After the verdict, Alexander was brought to New York. Prosecutors here said they allowed him to plead guilty earlier this year to one charge of criminal sexual act to spare the victims from testifying at two trials. He was sentenced to what amounted to time served. He is still awaiting charges in Dallas and Houston. Meanwhile, his attorney is working on filing the paperwork

He said he didn't force women into anything. While he was working on a deal to take his brand public, he says, the conspiracy was growing slowly around him, made up of angry, bitter women who felt partially responsible for his success and wanted more than he was giving them brainwashed his most recent fling. Her trip to the Beverly Hills police touched off his arrest. "And then the next day, 20 cops with guns arrested me," he said. Alexander also says he has evidence of prosecutorial and juror misconduct. During trial, a male juror contacted his sister, Sanjana. But the judge could not uncover whether any misconduct occurred

with a California judge they hope will overturn his conviction. Alexander's sister has held fundraisers in India attended by Bollywood stars. Stories in Indian media proclaim his innocence. Dozens of supporters attended his sentencing in New York. His company is on hold. Alexander waits. "The truth tends to surface," he said.-AP

Ekal Vidyalaya gets big boost from Chicagoans

Chicago chapter president Dr Hasmukh Shah and his wife Jyotsana Shah with Ekal Vidyalaya volunteers. Pics AsianMedia USA Harish Rao & Asian Media USA

CHICAGO: For a noble cause, members of Indian community have never lagged behind in extending their support and this was once again in evidence when Ekal Vidyala Foundation held a fundraiser Saturday, April 6 at

Glen Bard North High School in Carol Stream. Members of the community flocked to the school in large numbers to be part of Swar Sanjeevani 2013 and extend support to a very worthy cause - "the Gift of Education" for the underprivileged children of rural and tribal villages of India.

The start was with lighting of lamp which was done in the presence of Dr Ashutosh Gupta , renowned Nephrologist, Dr Mahendra Patel and Hansa Patel along with Chicago chapter president Dr Hasmukh Shah and Jyotsana Shah. Harish Doshi emceed the event gracefully and introduced Dr Hasmukh Shah, a highly

Dr Mahendra Patel and Hansa Patel, Dr Ashutosh Gupta, Jyotsana Shah and Dr. Hasmukh Shah, President of the Chicago Chapter

respected physician practicing in Sterling Dr Shah recalled the statement made by Swami Vivekananda that if a child can't go to school, then a teacher should go to the child. "His dream has now taken shape with over 46,000 schools from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and Somnath to

Assam. We are fortunate to celebrate his 150th birthday this year by making his dream and vision come true as Vidya Dan is the greatest of all Dans". Chicago Chapter is a proud sponsor of Ekal National Conference to be held in September, he said. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 26

24 India Post

Community Across America

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

Bollywood coming to Chicago with a bang RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service

CHICAGO: The Al Capone fame city of Chicago has well outlived its past and is known more now for cultural and economic cohesion and development rather than crime and punishment. And

100 Years of Indian Cinema celebration posters

there could not be a better demonstration or proof of this change than it getting the distinction of being the first city outside India to celebrate 100 years of Indian cinema, now more famously known as Bollywood The lead is taken by a diminutive business entrepreneur and

showman Saiyed Monty who with his Vibrant Media Group and with support from Studio Elite, Ravani & Mohindra, Attorneys at Law and Amedcoa Dental announcing here in the presence of some well known elected Chicagoland officials and business elite to host three days of crossed entertainment to celebrate this event. The celebrations from August 31 to September 1 at Sears Center Arena in Hoffman Estates, a northwest suburb of Chicago, will bring in a weekend of music, fashion, and culture of India and from India, said Saiyed Monty in a talk to this paper. The announcement of the event was made during a grand launch held at Meadows Club in Rolling Meadows and it was emceed by Yukta Mookhey, an Indian model and actress and a yester year Miss World . She was introduced by Abhia Khan who also welcomed the guests. Yukta, who did her job quite gracefully, has featured in several Bollywood movies and engages herself in social and charitable causes. One of the most recognizable presences was that of Fred

Saiyed Monty and Mrs Monty with a group of organizers and supporters of the event. Pics Suresh Shah and Asian Media US

and the "India-U.S. Business Summit" events in Illinois. "This is a great opportunity for the State to celebrate a milestone in Indian culture, and for Illinoisans to participate in a once in a lifetime event. With over 225,000 South Asians calling the Chicago land area home, it is only fitting that an event of this magnitude be held in

of Bollywood!" Hoffman Estates Mayor Bill McLeod said "The Village (of Hoffman Estates) is excited at the prospect of hosting 100 Years of Bollywood at the Sears Center Arena. An event of this caliber would truly be a celebration of the Indian culture that comprises a significant part of our vibrant and

A section of the audience

Yukta Mookhey, emceeing the event

Crespo, State Representative 44th District State of Illinois who in his brief address observed that

Abhia Khan welcoming the guests

Monty Saiyed and Vibrant Media need to be applauded for organizing the "100 Years of Bollywood"

our great State." The launch also saw playback singer Krishna Beura in attendance extending his support for the event. Beura is a playback singer known for his hit songs "Maula Mere" from Chak De India, "Soniyo" from Raaz-2 and "Rabba" from Musafir among others. Monty Saiyed said "It is truly an honor to recognize icons from the Indian film fraternity that have contributed to making the indus-

State Rep Fred Crespo

try what it is today. We are very happy to host the first ever event exclusively celebrating 100 Years

dynamic community." Dave Parulo, President of Woodfield Chicago Northwest Convention Bureau said "We would welcome and showcase our Chicago Northwest region to the international and domestic visitors during the upcoming India-US Business Summit and the 100th Year Celebration of Bollywood" Detailing the 100 Years of Bollywood celebrations spanning over Labor Day weekend from August 30-September 1, Monty

Saiyed Monty with Dr and Mrs Mehboob Kapadia

said that it would cover: Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 26

Community Across America

April 26, 2013

India Post 25

www.indiapost.com

Chicago supports HDF work in Pakistan Asian Media USA

Khalid Riaz (HDF) Board of director and Indian community activist Sunil Shah

CHICAGO: The Human Development Foundation (HDF) held its 16th Annual Community Awareness & Fundraising Dinner on Saturday, April 13 at Rosemont Convention Center in Rosemont. The Chicago Desi community came out in large numbers to support this HDF's mission in fighting poverty through its holistic model of development in the region Rahim Yar Khan. Over 400 attendees with the presence of Rashid Osmani, debut author of "Word Posse" and a silent auction highlighted this threehour successful event. Master of Ceremonies was Ash-har Quraishi, Emmy Awardwinning television journalist. Hmaira Abbasi, HDF's Chicago Chapter Chair, welcomed the guests and volunteers. Executive Director Fakhia Rashid highlighted HDF's milestones and

HDF's Executive Director, Fakhia Rashid (center) with Funkadesi group and volunteers

achievements. She also gave updates on two projects funded by the generous Chicago Community last year. The projects include HDF Enoo Bhatti School in Lahore and a Community Health Center in Zhob which serves more than 14,000 people. A powerful keynote address was delivered by M. Salahuddin Khan, author of critically acclaimed novel, "Sikander," now

being turned into a screenplay. Fundraising was led by Mujahid Ghazi highlighting the fact that proceeds from this fundraising gala positively impacted the lives of over 48,000 beneficiaries in the Rahim Yar Khan program region. This event concluded with a live performance by renowned group, Funkadesi, which was named "Best International/ World Music Band 2012."

The material world is like God's penitentiary Cont’d from page 22

SM: God's leelas are Divine, and hence they are beyond the comprehension of the material intellect. If everything of God could be understood by us, then what would be the difference between Him and us? You cannot hope to know the specific reasons behind His every leela, but you can try to comprehend a broad explanation for them. The primary reason behind God's leelas is to provide a basis for the soul to do devotion. During His descension in the world, God manifests His divine name, form, virtues, pastimes, abode and associates on the earth plane. These become the basis for the devotion of billions of souls in future. For example, Lord Ram displayed his pastimes ages ago, but even today, innumerable souls remember them, and sing their narrations in the Ramayan, to enhance their devotion. Hence, the Saint Tulsidas states: Rama eka tapasa tiya tari, nama koti khala kumati sudhari "In His Avatar period, Lord Ram saved only one Ahilya from the stone body. But He left His Divine name "Ram" behind, and billions of fallen souls have saved themselves by taking His Name." By taking an Avatar in the world, the Lord manifested the paraphernalia of names, forms, pastimes, virtues and abode, which the soul can use for fixing the mind upon Him. If God had not descended in the world, the souls would not

have had any basis for Bhakti, since meditation upon the formless aspect of God is exceedingly difficult. Hence, the primary reason for the Divine leelas of God on the earth is for the welfare of the souls. Q: One may believe that God does everything for the welfare of human beings, but His pastimes like the Maharaas seem bizarre at times. Please explain how can we rise above the confusion we face

“Lord Ram saved only one Ahilya from the stone body. But He left His Divine name "Ram" behind, and billions of fallen souls have saved themselves by taking His Name” while trying to figure out His unusual pastimes? SM: All the actions performed by God and God-realized Saints are only for the welfare of others, as they are already absorbed in divine bliss and there is nothing for them to attain. So it is also simple to understand that anything that anything that an avatar of God did is also for the welfare of the souls. Now, it is a different matter that we may not be able to comprehend what was the welfare through a

particular action. But that should not be surprising to us! After all, how large is God's intellect, and in comparison, how small is ours? Suppose that a primary school student were to go to Albert Einstein, and ask him how he arrived at his equation E=mc2. Einstein could question him, "Do you know polar integration?" "No Sir!" "Do you know Calculus?" "Sir, I have never heard of it!" "Do you at least know Algebra?" "No! All I know is how to count two plus two on my fingers." Einstein would probably say, "In that case I cannot explain my Relativity Equation to you." "Really, you cannot explain it to me? That means your theory is wrong." If the boy were to reach such a conclusion, how presumptuous and inaccurate that would be! Similarly, the Maharaas of Shree Krishna is in the tenth canto of the Shreemad Bhagavatam. If we want to jump straight there without having even realized that we are the body, it will be equally presumptuous. We must begin understanding spirituality from Grade One. First, from the Bhagavad Geeta, we should appreciate that we are the soul and not the body. With this knowledge, we must learn to detach ourselves from the world. Then, we should start relishing Divine Love from the Bhagavatam, which begins where the Bhagavad Geeta ends. The Maharaas is in

the tenth canto of the Bhagavatam, and so it is a postdoctoral topic. By gradually progressing in our devotion, we will reach the point where we will develop an understanding of the Maharaas of Shree Krishna. Q: We give respect to elders in the world. So we do not call them by their names. But, we call God by His Names like Radha, Krishna etc. Isn't calling God's Name similar to insulting Him?

“Taking the Name of God is so easy because there are no rules for it; one can do it even while eating, walking, resting, etc, and in this way attain Divine Love” SM: Taking God's Name is simple way to remember Him. It is an easy method of engaging in devotion. One can take the Name along with performing one's worldly duties. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu said: Khaite shuite yatha tatha naam laya …( Chaitanya Charitamrita Antya 20.18) "Taking the Name of God is so easy because there are no rules for it; one can do it even while eat-

ing, walking, resting, etc, and in this way attain Divine Love." In some traditions, they do not take God's name thinking that would be insulting to Him. However, the Vedic understanding is that when we take God's name, He feels delighted that we are increasing our love for Him. Chanting the Name is also a way of expressing our love for Him. Many devotees chant the Names in groups, which is called sankirtan. Saints says: Radhe radhe bola nita… "Always chant the name of "Radha" and meditate upon Her Divine Form. Shree Krishna will be so pleased that He will leave Golok and come running to you." Swami Mukundananda is a world renowned spiritual teacher from India, and is the senior disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj and founder of JK Yog. He has received his degrees in engineering from world renowned institutes in India, IIT and IIM. He has inspired people all over the world on the path of spirituality, holistic health, yoga, meditation, service to society and God realization. This year, Swamiji will be conducting weeklong programs in 30+ cities of USA from April onwards. For more information visit: http:// www.jkyog.org/ or contact: secretary@jkyog.org To attend Swamiji's Yoga, Meditation and Spiritual Discourses in USA, see the schedule for your city: www.jkyog.org/ 2013

Community Across America

26 India Post

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

Nayan Ghosh sitar recital as Ekal Vidyalaya gets big boost from Chicagoans tribute to Ravi Shankar CHICAGO: South Asian Classical Music Society of Chicago (SACMS) Spring Music Festival has announced hosting a concert featuring one of India's most illustrious classical musicians, Pandit Nayan Ghosh on sitar accompanied by the 12 year-old Ishaan Ghosh on tabla,. The concert will be held on Sunday, May 5 at 3:00 pm at Merit School of Music Gottlieb Hall in Chicago. The event is marked as tribute to Ravi Shankar, the Sitar Maestro from India The first half of this two part program will feature Pandit Nayan Ghosh in a stimulating sitar demonstration and performance. Lyon Leifer, the renowned western classical flautist and master of the Indian keyless bamboo flute (bansuri), will join Ghosh in an informative discussion about the contributions and the role of the great Ravi Shankar in the de-

velopment of the sitar, the quintessential instrument of Indian classical music. The second half features a rare duet performance on the tabla featuring Ghosh switching from the sitar to tabla. Besides being one of India's greatest sitarists, Maestro Ghosh is also recognized as one of the nation's greatest tabla players. He is the only artist in India with a superlative command of

Ghosh traces his musical lineage back for six generations. Ishaan represents the 7th generation to carry on the authentic aural tradition of Indian classical music. Pt. Nayan Ghosh, Director of Sangeet Mahabharati Music Academy of Mumbai, was last heard in Chicago two and a half years ago in an acclaimed recital performance in Preston Bradley Hall of the Chicago Cultural Center

Nayan Ghosh and Isahan

these two diverse instruments. This duet (jugalbandhi ) features tabla prodigy, Ishaan Ghosh. Ishaan began his study of the tabla at the age of two when his parents noticed his natural and keen interest in the instrument.

joining hands, the future of establishing 100,000 schools in remote rural areas of India is definitely not a distant dream, he said Each year 'Ekal-USA collects

Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 23

SURI SWAMI

at the 2010 World Music Festival. He has performed at many other music festivals including the World Music Festival in Seattle, the EastWest Festival in Athens, and Crete, Greece besides the Jazz Festivals in Fukuoka and Tokyo, Japan.

Shree Gurusamy, a Social Worker who actively works with the immigrant families and seniors of Chic a g o , made an appeal for donation. She spoke about Ekal Movement's phenomenal success that has led to economic development of India. Ekal Sanjeevani Bhelande (Playback singer, music director, poet C h i c a g o and author) and Chirag Panchal (Singer and keyboard Player) chapter collected $18200 at this charity around $4 Millions (40 lakh Dolmusic concert to benefit over 300 lars or 20 crore Rupees) through schools in India. their fund-raising concerts. In the The cultural event that fol- last few years, "Ekal" has received lowed was a mesmerizing affair numerous prestigious Awards and with 900 plus members of the au- Grants, including 'Best NGO', for dience totally submerged by the its transparency of operation and mellifluous voice of Sanjeevani outstanding administration. The Ekal movement is the largand her musicians. Kamlesh Shah thanked all patrons, donors and est, grassroots, non-governmensupporters for their year after year tal education movement in India, continuous donation towards operating in over 46,966 villages and educating over 1,335,078 chilEkal's initiatives. With the kind of momentum dren in rural India. The goal is to 'Ekal' has gathered in recent years, reach 100,000 villages by year and over 4,000 selfless volunteers 2015.

Masti & DCA present Chicago Ki Awaaz ARVIND PATEL

CHICAGO: Masala Grill restaurant on Devon Avenue in Chicago turned out to be a star attraction on Saturday April 6 for a gathering of over 85 people who

starting 7 pm and ending by mid night with non-stop Bollywood songs being sung by 20 singers both amateurs and professionals. Masti Entertainment had a

Sunil Shah, third from left, with Masti Group

wanted to enjoy old and new Bollywood songs. It was a sold out event organized by Masti Entertainment

small beginning last year with and a handful of members. It has grown a bit with over 125 members with the following on a rise. Sunil

Shah, a New York Lifer with a good record of supporting talented and upcoming artists, was one of the sponsors of this month's event. He funded four prizes for the top singers for the night. The 1st prize winner was Dr. J e n c y Elakkatt, 2nd prize went to Mahijit Virdi, 3rd prize went to Muzaffar Qureshi and the 4th prize went to Dr I m a a d Ahmed. MastiEntertainment organizes karaoke night called "Chicago Ki Awaaz" every 6-8 weeks, at venues all over Chicago land.

The audience

Bollywood coming to Chicago with a bang Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 24

August 30: A precursor event, a US-India Business Summit, is being planned to merge trade and culture to connect business and economic development leaders of India and Illinois. August 31: An extravagant musical concert featuring leading playback singers Usha Mangeshkar, Krishna Beura and more from the Bollywood Indus-

try mesmerizing audiences with a musical journey from 1913 to the present, and an exclusive fashion show by Studio Elite at the Sears Center Arena. September 1: Power-packed performances by Katrina Kaif, Ranveer Singh and more leading Bollywood celebrities choreographed by Prabhu Deva at the Sears Center Arena. The event will culminate with a live award ceremony honoring Bollywood legends.

Community Across America

April 26, 2013

India Post 27

www.indiapost.com

Holi celebrated with gusto by Bal Vihar students RAJ IYER & ASHWIN PATEL

ST LOUIS: Bal Vihar of St. Louis celebrated the Holi festival on March 30 at Mahatma Gandhi Center. It turned out to be a major outdoor event of the calendar year with families to meet and greet

torical and cultural significance of Holi. Mary Shapiro, a St. Louis County journal reporter graced the occasion and covered the event for the newspaper. It was difficult for the children to

Children play colors in St Louis

each other and have some colorful fun. The event started at noon with lunch for all. Sudhir Brahmabhatt kicked off the event and introduced Neha Jogalekar, a youth student at Bal Vihar who talked about his-

hide their enthusiasm as they eagerly awaited distribution of colors. As soon as the first set of packets opened, the colored dust started filling the atmosphere. Adults could be seen applying colors to the faces and greeted

Adults join children in color play

each other. Within half an hour, most of them were covered in multiple colors from head to toe. Another successful chapter in Bal Vihar's proud 20+ years of history was added to the books. Bal Vihar is already in its 21st year of existence. Today, over 280 students attend 15 classrooms taught by 40 teachers and supported by administrative staff and scores of volunteer parents. Students from 5-18 years learn bhajans, yoga, history, culture and traditions of India. Bal Vihar celebrates festivals like Diwali, Holi, Independence & Republic Day amongst others. To commemorate successful 20 years, the management has planned "UTSAV - Celebrating 20 Years of Growth and Success". The cultural program will include performance by students followed by dinner. The event is expected to be attended by over 500 guests. The school is currently held at a public school. Projecting the future growth and interest, taking up a permanent facility to accommodate anticipated 400 students in five years is under active consideration of the management. It raised $250,000 during a gala event in 2010 and an additional $125,000 needs to be raised over next year for a permanent home and furnishing all the classrooms with needed equipment and furniture.

Nirankari Mission participates in world conference PRAFULL LANDE & SANJEEV SAGAR

he Sant Nirankari Mission, culture, caste, gender, age and a spiritual movement work nationality. It was discussed both ing towards universal in open sessions as well as panbrotherhood, participated in the els. United Nations Commission on The Sant Nirankari Mission, a the Status of Women, a world con- faith based organization, is flourference organized in New York ishing worldwide. It is actively from March 4 to 15. The Mission's delegation included Dr Iqbaljit S. Rai, President of the Sant Nirankari Mission, USA, Mrs. Manjeet Rai, Mrs. Shashi Madhok, Mrs. Harlivleen Bajwa and Mr. M o h a n SNM delegates in UN world conference Sabnani. In all, 193 countries were represented in the Confer- involved in changing the attitude ence through their non-govern- and behavior of human beings. It ment organizations, Government brings people together irrespecofficials, dignitaries, ambassadors tive of age, culture, caste, religion, and students. gender and nationality. It focuses The common theme of the Con- on the core values of humanity ference was how to raise the core the love, respect, non-violence, values of humanity to love and equality and is thus transforming respect each other irrespective of the individuals, and families.

Sunidhi Chauhan rocks the Bay Area Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 18

In order to achieve this aim, they are trying to raise $100 million by 2020. Sunidhi Chauhan starring Krazy2 events are part of the fund

The evening started around 7pm with Sunidhi Chauhan singing her hit song 'Aisa Jadoo Dala Re'. She brought the house down with hit songs such as "Ishq Sufiana", "Bin Tere" and "Yaaram". Ali Zafar made the per-

Sikh Coalition official at White House Women's History Month

India Post News Service

n March 18, the Sikh Coalition's Executive Director, Sapreet Kaur, was invited to

join President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama for a reception at the White House to celebrate Women's History Month. This intimate reception in-

cluded women leaders from diverse fields including business, athletics, government, the arts and non-profits. The Sikh Coalition was proud to join the President and First Lady in recognizing and celebrating the vast contributions of women in our society. At the reception, Sapreet Kaur had the opportunity to speak with the President and First Lady. She thanked him for his and the administration's support of the Sikh American community. Sapreet was also very honored to introduce them to her mother and role model, Gurcharan Kaur.

Mr Murali Krishnamurthy giving vote of thanks

raising plans for SEF. Sunidhi Chauhan and Ali Zafar performed to packed halls and super excited audiences. Sunidhi Chauhan is perhaps the most sought after singer Diva in Bollywood today. Starting at age 13, she has been giving one hit song after another for the past many years. Ali Zafar is up and coming Bollywood actor who also has a unique singing talent.

formance up close and personal by moving through the hall while singing. He touched many a people in audience with his charm. The duo next performs in Los Angeles, Texas and other places in USA. Funds raised from these events will go a long way in fulfilling the SEF vision, immediate goal being opening a new eye hospital in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.

TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Sapna Mera Toota: Nautanki Saala 2 Mera Mann Kehne Laga: Nautanki Saala 3 Taki Taki: Himmatwala 4 Aaja Meri Jaan: I Love NY 5 Judaai Unplugged: I Love NY 28

India Post

www.indiapost.com

April 26, 2013 6 Aake Tere Kareeb:

Ammaa Ki Boli

aif Ali Khan has dismissed speculations around him having second thoughts about doing Sajid Khan's next. On the con trary, he stays as excited as ever before and is looking forward to beginning work on the film. "Such rumors are uncalled for. If someone is spreading it, he should have a spine to come out in open and talk about it. Why should I be jittery about doing his film just because his Himmatwala didn't work as expected? He never promised anything different from what he delivered. He wanted to revisit the 80s in his own way and this is what he did. Sometimes things work and sometimes they don't. That doesn't mean you start doubting a director", says Saif. Saif goes on to add that he has liked Sajid's earlier work. "Right from Heyy Babyy to Housefull series, he has made entertaining films. I am glad that we are working together now. I am all excited to start the film this summer. It is going to be a fun outing", assures Saif before signing off. Now that should kill all rumors once for and all.

7 Kaali Kaali: Aake Tere Kareeb 8 Meethi Boliyaan: Kai Po Che! 9 Yaaram: Ek Thi Daayan 10 Manjha: Kai Po Che!

Daisy is one of the coolest heroines Salman has worked with. The thing is, she didn't try to play up to him for the role

alman Khan's heroine from Mental, Daisy Shah, was a chorus dancer for Ganesh Acharya. She in fact made Katrina Kaif re hearse for Chikni Chameli. Onlookers from the set of Agneepath remember that Kat, who's very reserved, hardly interacted with Daisy and preferred to communicate with Ganesh instead. Now, Kat and Daisy are contemporaries, thanks to a superpower called Salman Khan, who has given both of them the rank of his heroine. Daisy is the least awed by the prospect of being promoted from chorus dancer to leading lady A source from the location of Mental in Dubai says, "Daisy is one of the coolest heroines Salman has worked with. The thing is, she didn't try to play up to him for the role. Nor did she go out of the way to suck up to him while shooting. Salman hates it when heroines play up to him just to get on the screen with him. He hates it when heroines snuggle up to his family to get close to him. He likes women who don't play up to him for roles. Daisy was a chorus dancer. She just couldn't care less about stardom. That's the spirit Salman subscribes to." We hear Salman and Sohail have big plans to promote Daisy. Says the source, "She'll be the 'Next Big Thing' after Katrina among Salman's co-stars."

adhuri Dixit may have danced her way into the hearts of millions of fans over the years but now the actress, will be donning a new avatar. In her forthcoming film Gulab Gang, she will be flexing her vocal chords and that too alongside her mother Snehlata Dixit, making it a first for the mother daughter duo. Apparently, the decision to have Madhuri sing happened when the makers of the film noticed a particular sequence that needed the actress to break out into a song in the first half. It was then that they decided on converting the sequence into a full fledged song. Talking about this, producer Anubhav Sinha says, "We had decided to do the track with Madhuri, and then she came there with her mother. It was in fact Soumik's idea to use both of them for the track, since her mother has a background in singing." The recording was completed recently at Empire Studios in Andheri. With this, Madhuri joins the club of Bollywood celebrities who have also tried a hand at singing - Amitabh Bachchan, Priyanka Chopra, Aamir Khan, Akshay Kumar, Ranbir Kapoor and Ranveer Singh, among others.

Bollywood

April 26, 2013

India Post 29

www.indiapost.com

alit Modi's niece Jayati Modi is all set to earn her share of the limelight this May as she makes her Bollywood debut. The 16-year-old will be seen in Karan Johar's upcoming film, Gippi, playing Shamira. The young actress, who plays a teenage girl in school, bagged the role in the film thanks to social media. "The auditions were conducted through Facebook and Jayati happened to know about it via her friends. She registered in Delhi with a group of friends but everyone auditioned except her," says a source. Turns out, director Sonam Nair noticed her in the crowd. "When Sonam asked her why she wasn't auditioning, Jayati said she was not sure about it. But when Sonam insisted, she went ahead and not only auditioned but also bagged the role," adds the source. According to Sonam, Jayati was perfect for the role. "She was not bitchy but had the right attitude that was required for her character. She fit the part of 'Shamira' naturally. In real life as well she i s very much like her character. She is intelligent, good with sports and extra-curricular activities and very popular in her school." sums up the debutante director.

The young actress, who plays a teenage girl in school, bagged the role in the film thanks to social media

ast year, we saw Rani Mukerji in two starkly con trasting roles with Aiyyaa and Talaash, while this year she will be seen in Bombay Talkies that celebrates 100 years of Indian Cinema as well as in a guest appearance in Chennai Express. Rani now we hear has already signed her next, which will be directed by Pradeeep Sarkar. The film titled Mardaani will feature Rani playing a cop. Sources state that this will be the boldest, grittiest subject YRF have ever ventured into, where the story revolves around a female cop and will also showcase Sarkar's departure from the romance and family drama to a never done before raw and bold subject. Mardaani, produced by Yash Raj Films is scheduled to go on floor towards the end of this year. Previously, Sarkar had directed Rani in Laaga Chunari Mein Daag.

ENGLISH ANAND S

he has a number of Tamil and Telegu films to her credit. But Priya Anand impressed audiences and rose to fame in Bollywood with her stint in 'English Vinglish.' For Priya, life has changed quite a bit after English Vinglish. The actress, who was next seen in Priyadarshan's Rangrezz, says her journey from EV to Rangrezz has been amazing. "I was not consciously trying for Bollywood. But EV was the opportunity of a lifetime. It was about working with Sridevi and I couldn't say no," she says and adds, "Bollywood has opened a lot of doors for me." Priya adds how doing these two films had a closer significance, "My grandmother is a Marathi and I played a Maharashtrian girl in my first Bollywood movie. Even in Rangrezz, I play a Marathi girl."

30 India Post

www.indiapost.com

performance, in that scene, and not the other factors. And here is what the fault was," Amitabh posted on his blog

e is considered a legend in the Indian film industry, but megastar Amitabh Bachchan doesn't seem to be as impressed with his acting skills and calls himself a "rotten actor". The comment has come after he has realized his mistake in one of the sequences

in 2005 Black, in which he played a teacher called Debraj Sahay. A few days back, the 70-year-old had asked the audience about the mistake that he did in the film directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. "...I was asking about the fault in my

For someone who is soon getting into the symptoms of Alzheimer's, where patients forget where and what they do, it was incorrect of me to go straight to my pocket," he posted. Even after eight years, he doesn't seem to have got over that mistake srbachchan.tumblr.com. Black revolves around a blind and deaf girl, played by Rani Mukerji, and her rela-

Aishwarya, Abhishek recreate Kajrare moment

April 26, 2013

tionship with Sahay, her teacher, who later develops Alzheimer's. Sharing the mistake, he posted: "When I inform all at the table that Rani had dictated a letter to me to be read at the table, especially for her sister, whom it was believed she was jealous of, I took out the letter to read, and then my hand went straight to my upper pocket of the jacket to pull out the glasses to read... Mistake." "I needed to feel around in my other pockets to ascertain where my glasses were, instead of my hand directly going to the pocket. For someone who is soon getting into the symptoms of Alzheimer's, where patients forget where and what they do, it was incorrect of me to go straight to my pocket," he posted. Even after eight years, he doesn't seem to have got over that mistake. "Aah! still cringe every time I think of the mistake, or see it on replays! Damn! I am such a rotten actor," posted Big B.-PTI

Sonu Sood is now a practicing orthopedic

ishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan recreated the Kajrare moment at the recently held Times Of India Awards in Vancouver recently. The couple along with megastar Amitabh Bachchan had

last performed on the song at the IIFA awards in June 2005, when Ash and Abhi were just co-stars. The two once again recreated the magic and this time they were joined by Shiamak Davar on stage. This was Ash and Abhi's first performance since

the birth of their daughter Aaradhya last year. Aishwarya Rai also performed for the numbers Khwaja Mere Khwaja, Dhoom title song and Dola re Dola re from Devdas and enthralled everyone.

onu Sood who suffered a leg fracture, has become such an expert on the subject that he has been giving friends advice on how to take care of their leg and foot injuries. Sonu knows what medicines to prescribe, the posture for the injured leg and all the o t h e r gyaan that is needed to get a person walking soon after an injury. H e laughs and says, "I have become half a doctor, but I only talk about it to friends. I don't wish to be called a quack but honestly, this last one-and-a-half months at home, nursing myself back to normalcy has taught me a lot on the subject of fractures."

April 26, 2013

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Subodh Gupta's 'rickshaw art' on display at Delhi mall ing from the steering handle too. And, the effter unveiling famed artist fect the arrangement creSubodh Gupta's colossal ates is quite visceral. "He (Gupta) was in work in steel "Line Of Control" last year, a city-based Varanasi when he saw private museum seems to be re- this, a rickshaw-wallah drawing the map of public art in pulling an overloaded the Capital, by putting on display heap of lotas and he said another of his iconic installation he could never get that image out of his head, at a plush mall here. Kiran Nadar Museum of Art which is where his inspi(KNMA) has put on a month-long ration comes from," says display another of Gupta's lead- Karode. "And, lotas are also ing signature work titled "Cheap Rice", an installation work with intrinsic part of their bronze, metal over a standing rick- lives, as also to hold a shaw, with is already attracting grain like rice, especially visitors' attention at premises of a on auspicious occasions. And, since mall in South Delhi. "In our continuous bid to make Subodh is from Bihar, he art more accessible to people, we also has drawn parallel have decided to install Subodh's with the 'pind daan' rituiconic rickshaw art work at the mall als that take place in the here for a month. And, after 'Line Gaya district there where of Control' last year, we are trying a small cake (pind) of rice to redefine the whole public art is offered as a route to achieve philosophy," Director and Chief 'moksha' for their ancestors," she Curator, KNMA, Roobina Karode added. And, hence for a metropolitan told PTI. Made in 2006 and one of city like Delhi, these arts hold such Gupta's most iconic expressions "deeper narrative to ponder and using household utensils and reflect upon" where "inequalities exist in glaring proportions". Gupta's previous "He (Gupta) was in Varanasi work "Line of Control", when he saw this, a rickmade in 2008, where a shaw-wallah pulling an mushroom cloud made out of steel household overloaded heap of lotas utensils in a symbolic and he said he could never giant explosion stands get that image out of his in the central foyer of the South Court mall head, which is where his where it was unveiled inspiration comes from," almost about a year ago, was triggered by metal, "Cheap Rice" tells a poi- the 1999 Indo-Pak Kargil war imgnant tale of India's poverty draw- ages and "the world not needing ing metaphors from the daily hard another Hiroshima". The 49-year-old internationally life of a rickshaw puller, as also it makes an oblique commentary on renowned artist recently also garthe ancient 'pind daan' rituals, nered much praise for his work at the India Art Fair 2013 with his sigwhich involve rice. In the installation, a standing nature steel installation titled "Mirrickshaw is overloaded with a ror Stage" carried by an Italian huge heap of lotas (small metallic gallery, Galleria Continua. "I don't work just for a fair. I pots), used mostly in villages, small town and by relatively poorer have other works on which I conpeople. Apart from the overflow- tinuously work on and art fairs like ing pots consuming the seating these only display a part of my space, a few lotas are seen hang- collective oeuvre which is much

KUNAL DUTT

deeper than what people see" Gupta said earlier. Born in 1964 in Khagaul, a railway town on the outskirts of Patna, Gupta attended the Patna College of Arts and Crafts from 1983-88. And after graduation is

now based in Delhi-NCR. Dubbed as India's 'Damien Hirst', his works have been exhibited at prestigious art spaces and museum and have adorned various public spaces too, around the

world. Among his other iconic work is the 'Very Hungry God' a skull made lot of steel utensils which almost made him a household name in the contemporary art circuit. Much of his work is inspired from his life back in Bihar where he grew up observing the daily lives and commonplace objects, images which he'd later harness and fashion into a big-ticket selling art. Kirna Nadar Museum of Art, opened in 2010 is India's first philanthropic private museum headed by Kiran Nadar, an avid collector and wife of IT captain Shiv Nadar of HCL Technologies Limited. KNMA is run under the Shiv Nadar Foundation. Focused on bridging the disconnect between art and the public and enhancing museum-going culture in India, the museum aspires to become a place for confluence, through its curatorial initiative and exhibitions, school and college workshops, art appreciation discourses, symposiums and public programs, says Karode. -PTI

India launches month-long cultural festival in Egypt CAIRO: India has launched a month-long festival in the Egyptian capital here, showcasing diversity of its culture, entertainment, arts, music and cuisine to build enduring partnerships between the two ancient civilizations. The 'India by the Nile' festival includes a Bollywood workshop by Gilles Chuyen, a performance of music and dance called Bollywood fusion which is to be presented in collaboration with dancers of the Cairo Opera Ballet Company. An exhibition of visual arts by Akshara showcasing calligraphy in crafts and a forum for Indian and Egyptian authors in conversation will be on display during the event. "We will also try to extend the

horizons beyond the conventional boundaries of entertainment," Indian ambassador to Egypt Navdeep Suri said. Suri, who served in Cairo 25 years ago, returned back to the city at a time when the Arab country is facing political turmoil after the toppling of longtime dictator Hosni Mubarak following a popu-

lar uprising in 2011. The turmoil of the past two and a half years redefined the relation and feeling Egyptians hold for number of countries as the feelings of the masses swing with every new development. But India is one country Egyptians still eye with a mixture of awe, amusement and hope, locals say.-PTI

Â&#x201E; Health

Line

NC has big drop in employer health coverage RALEIGH, N.C.: A new study points to pressure on North Carolina workers by illustrating big declines in company-provided health insurance. The study by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and University of Minnesota health policy researchers shows North Carolina had one of the biggest double-digit drops in workers covered by employer-sponsored insurance. The study finds that North Carolina workers covered by company health plans fell by more than 13 percent over the first decade of this century, worse than all states except South Carolina, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. The decline in employer-provided insurance is common among nearly all states, although the size of the fall in coverage varies by state. North Carolina also saw a nation's-worst decrease of 6 percentage points in workers whose companies offer any health insurance. -AP

Â&#x201E; Progress on vaccine for virus killing Asian elephants LONDON: Scientists may be a step closer to developing a vaccine for a virus that is killing scores of Asian elephants, listed as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. A team of scientists from the University of Glasgow, the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency and The Roslin Institute (University of Edinburgh) has deciphered the genetic maps of the two most lethal kinds of elephant endotheliotropic herpesviruses (EEHVs). The viruses cause a fatal haemorrhagic disease which has claimed lives of nearly 80 captive animals till now, a statement issued by the University said. The disease is usually deadly for young elephants aged between one and four, and while mainly a concern for captive elephants, the viruses are also found in wild animals. Anti-viral medications have been used to treat infected animals but their efficacy is unknown. EEHVs were discovered 15 years ago, but the viruses are difficult to study and none of them have been isolated in the laboratory, the statement said.-PTI

Health Science 32

India Post

www.indiapost.com

April 26, 2013

Polio vaccine developer Koprowski dead Details on Page 35

Detecting cancer & brain diseases more quickly by Dr Singh method India Post News Service

SACRAMENTO, CA: Cancer, the big C, is not just a single disease; it is a complex beast that, according to data from the National Cancer Institute, will be diagnosed in 1 in 2 people during their lifetime. Z., says his recent contributions to the field of medical imaging will make it possible for any physician to detect cancer and brain diseases more quickly and efficiently in patients who may not know they have the deadly ailments. Research being performed by scientists like Singh is giving hope to those who suffer from Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and other fatal illnesses that they will have access to affordable health care that could extend their lives for many years into the future. Cancer affects different people differently. For all cancers combined, the death rate is 25 percent higher for African Americans/ blacks than for whites. White women have the high-

est incidence rate for breast cancer, although African American/ Black women are most likely to die from the disease. Hispanic/Latino women have

the highest cervical cancer incidence rate. Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have the highest incidence rates for both liver and

As a practicing researcher with an outstanding track record in molecular biology and genetics, Dr Singh is at the forefront of translating research advances into advanced molecular therapeutics

stomach cancer and are twice as likely to die from these cancers as whites. American Indians and Alaska Natives have higher incidence and death rates for kidney cancer than other racial/ethnic groups. Dr Singh's research encourages collaboration among faculty with a broad range of expertise - from molecular and cellular biology to genetics and clinical research. This unique structure fosters laboratory-based, computational and clinical research that yields discoveries which can be rapidly translated into treatments for cancer patients. "As a practicing researcher with an outstanding track record in molecular biology and genetics, Dr Singh is at the forefront of translating research advances into advanced molecular therapeutics expertise that will be instrumental in catalyzing scientists effort to build strength in clinical molecular diagnostics and precision oncology," said Prof Hamid Arabnia, a professor of computer science at the University of Georgia. . Cont'd on Page 35

Fewer Californians get health care at work SACRAMENTO, Calif: Far fewer Californians are getting health insurance through their employers compared to a decade ago, a change that comes as the nation is about to undergo major reforms in the health care system, according to a report. The report by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, which funds health research and programs, found that the number of Californians receiving employer-sponsored insurance dropped by 1.3 million, or 8.4 percent, over the past decade. There were 18.9 million people, or 62 percent of the nonelderly population, with employer-sponsored health insurance in 2000. In 2011, that had dropped to 17.6 million, or 53

percent of California's non-elderly population, according to data prepared by the State Health Access Data Assistance Center, an independent health policy research center at the University of Minnesota. Researchers say many factors

showed just 60 percent of Americans received coverage through a job in 2011. That's 11.5 million fewer people than in 2000. Meanwhile, the cost of health insurance is rising. The average annual employer-sponsored insurance premium for family cov-

Researchers say many factors contributed to the decline, including decreases in overall employment and rising insurance premium costs contributed to the decline, including decreases in overall employment and rising insurance premium costs. Seniors were excluded because they have insurance through Medicare. The drop in California mirrors a national decline. The data

erage in California has more than doubled from $6,033 in 2000 to $14,828 in 2011. The average annual health insurance premium for single coverage has jumped from $2,259 to $5,033. The foundation noted that costs for employers and employ-

ees have increased dramatically. ``Higher costs naturally translate into fewer employers offering insurance coverage, and fewer employees accepting it, even when it is offered,'' said Dr. Risa Lavizzo-Mourey, president and chief executive of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, in a statement. ``That is why it is so important that people have options for purchasing affordable health insurance that meets their needs.'' Under the Affordable Care Act, uninsured middle-class Americans will be able to sign up for subsidized private health plans through new insurance markets in their states beginning Oct.1, with coverage starting in 2014. Cont'd on Page 34

April 26, 2013

Health Science Post

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Alarming state of contraception needs not being met BOBBY RAMAKANT

illions of women (and men) are still unable to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and prevent unintended pregnancies. Despite major thrust on research and

development of new options to prevent STIs and unintended pregnancies, and efforts to expand access to existing prevention technologies, unmet need of contraception and tools to protect from STIs, is alarming. Citizen News Service - CNS is connecting 'two dots' between two important consultations that addressed this issue from their very unique perspectives: International Symposium on Accelerating Multipurpose Prevention Technologies for Reproductive Health organized by Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR), Coalition for Advancing Multipurpose Innovations /Initiative for Multipurpose Innovations (CAMI/IMPT), US Agency for International Development (USAID) and World Health Organization (WHO); and Clinical

and Programmatic Guidance on the Standard Days Method, organized by the Institute for Reproductive Health (IRH), Georgetown University and USAID India. Women don't use 'em Dr Manjula Lusti-Narasimhan, Scientist, Department of Reproductive Health and Research (RHR) at WHO Geneva said "Even when women have access to modern contraceptives they do not use them. 22% of such women who had access to modern contraceptives and did not use them, cited health and side effects as reasons for not using these methods." But some evidencebased methods such as Standard Days Method (SDM), have no side effects. Priya Jha, IRH's Country Representative in India, said in reference to Standard Days Method (SDM) that "People like it because it has no side effects. SDM is used in over 30 countries. Men support their female partners, women understand their bodies and their fertility better, and couple communication improves with SDM use." Studies have shown that use of SDM has brought in couples who had never used family planning methods before. Priya added: "95% of SDM users in Rwanda and 87% of SDM users in Jharkhand state in India were new to family planning." So may be one of the ways to increase utilization of methods to prevent STIs and unintended pregnancies might be to reduce side effects of new under-development technologies and promote evidence-based methods without any side effects as part of the expanded

Oxygen-emitting pillow to keep harmful germs in check

esearchers have designed a unique oxygen-emitting cellular pillow that could help people sleep well by fil-

tering out air toxins and helping them breathe easier while sleeping. Research student Qing Ji, from the JiLin Animation Institute in China, has submitted a concept for the Electrolux Design Lab student competition. The cellular pillow is a green-and-white casual pillow that provides not only comfort, but safety from harmful germs, 'TechNewsDaily' reported. The pillow's design is made up of aloe cells, which are used to absorb carbon monoxide and release oxygen in its place, helping people who are leaning on it to breathe easier. The cells can also eliminate harmful bacteria and any harmful gases around the sleeping person, the report said. Ji claims the pillow will create an experience as similar as sleeping in the forest, breathing in the fresh air and helping people get an overall better night's sleep. The design is one of the 100 concepts Electrolux chose from more than 1,700 submissions in its competition. -PTI

range of prevention options. up with introduction of SDM' by saying Contraception & women's health that "Contraception use went up by 3.2% Noted Gynaecologist and Obstetrician whenever a new method is introduced." Dr Sunita Mittal who is presently the DiMartha Brady, Senior Associate, Popurector and Head of Gynaecology and Ob- lation Council said: "Largest absolute stetrics at Fortis Memorial Research Insti- unmet need for family planning is in South tute (FMRI) and a former Head of Asia." Martha noted that "If we look at Gynaecology and Obstetrics, All India In- user's perspectives we realize there are four stitute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), was big things women want to know: does this right on spot with her remark: "Contracep- product work? How well? Does this prodtion plays an important role in women's uct cause harm to either me or my partner? health. In India, family planning focuses on permanent methods We have to expand the basket of such as female steriliza- choices for women and men to prevent tion (tubectomy), male unintended pregnancies. Each method sterilization (vasectomy) or contraceptive has a unique clientele as no one pills, IUDs, condoms, method fits all at all the times among others; and old evidence-based methods such as SDM get Will using this product jeopardize my fumuch smaller mention. ture fertility?" "We have to expand the basket of Condom use only 5% choices for women and men to prevent un"Why is condom use only 5%?" asked intended pregnancies. Each method has a Dr Badri N Saxena, Research Professor unique clientele as no one method fits all at (Health and Population Policies), Centre for all the times. Women and men have their Policy Research (CPR); Chair of unique needs at different points of their Microbicides Expert Group of ICMR; and lives and we need to expand the range of President, Microbicides Society of India options they may choose from." (MSI). It is estimated that 5-6% of adult Dr Mittal also reinforced Priya Jha's re- population might be affected by STIs. mark of 'overall contraceptive use had gone Cont'd on Page 36

Health Science Post

India Post

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

Suicide survivors help to shape prevention efforts NEW YORK: They look intently at the camera, some impassively, some with smiles, all of them aware that they've just shared with an online audience a most personal story: Why they tried to kill themselves.

have to walk on egg shells,'' says Stage, who once tried to kill herself. ``We're not that fragile. We have to figure out how to talk about it, rather than avoiding it.'' Such conversations are proliferating.

Suicide Survivors

By the dozens, survivors of attempted suicide across the United States are volunteering to be part of a project by a New York-based photographer, Dese'Rae Stage, called ``Live Through This'' - a collection of photographic portraits and personal accounts. It's one of several new initiatives transforming the nation's suicide prevention community as more survivors find the courage to speak out and more experts make efforts to learn from them. There's a new survivors task force, an array of blogs, some riveting YouTube clips, all with the goal of stripping away anonymity, stigma and shame. ``Everyone feels like they

In January, the American Association of Suicidology launched a website called ``What Happens Now?'' - described as the first sustained effort by a national organization to engage survivors in a public forum. It features a blog, updated weekly, with contributions from survivors sharing their experiences and often using their real names. In one of the latest posts, the founder of a respite home for suicidal people writes powerfully about her own suicide attempt eight years ago, involving both pills and a kitchen knife, and about the contributions that survivors can bring to prevention efforts.

``Survivors have a unique perspective on what life's like down in the deep, dark hole,'' writes Sabrina Strong, executive director of Waking Up Alive in New Mexico. ``We found our way out... We're not afraid to crawl down in the dark hole with someone else.'' Seeking to encourage those types of contributions, the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention - a federally funded public-private partnership - has formed a first-of-its-kind task force comprising prevention experts and survivors. It plans to issue recommendations this year for how practitioners and organizations in the prevention field can ``engage and empower suicide attempt survivors.'' One of the task force co-chairs is psychologist John Draper, project director of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a network of centers that field calls from emotionally distressed and potentially suicidal people. According to studies cited by Draper, about 7 percent of survivors later kill themselves, a far higher rate than for other groups. ``Yet that means 93 percent go on to live out their lives,'' he said. ``We've got to talk to them, engage them, find out what is bringing them hope and keeping them alive.'' In past decades, the stigma surrounding suicide was intense, and most people who tried to kill themselves avoided any public disclosures about their experiences. There was far more involvement in the prevention

Sanford Health pulls out of Fairview merger talks MINNEAPOLIS: South Dakota-based Sanford Health pulled the plug on its merger discussions with Minneapolis-based Fairview Health Services, citing the hostile reception the proposal has faced in Minnesota. Sanford Health CEO Kelby Krabbenhoft said in a statement that his health care system has a policy of `ònly going where we are invited.'' He said discussions with Fairview had `ìncredibly positive beginnings,'' but added that Sanford now finds itself `ùnwelcome by some interested parties and key stakeholders of our pro-

posed merger partner.'' Fairview is one of Minnesota's largest health care providers with nearly 100 clinics and eight hos-

Kelby Krabbenhoft

pitals including the University of Minnesota Medical Center. Sioux

Falls-based Sanford Health runs 35 hospitals and more than 140 clinics in eight states. Minnesota Attorney General Lori Swanson exposed the merger discussions last month and held a hearing to air her concerns about putting the Fairview system under the control of an outof-state company. The university, meanwhile, advanced its own proposal to acquire Fairview. ``It is inconceivable and unacceptable to me that we would ever propose a merger without the affirmation of these parties,'' Krabbenhoft said. -AP

movement by bereaved relatives of people who completed a suicide. Among them was Michelle Linn-Gust, whose sister killed herself at 17 and who, in her current role as president of the American Association of Suicidology, helped launch the ``What Happens Now?'' website. ``The bereaved, the people who've lost someone, like me, that movement has taken off,'' Linn-Gust said. ``But the attempt survivors have not had a voice. Nobody has given them a home.'' Over the years, individuals who had attempted suicide would surface occasionally, writing books or going on the public-speaking circuit to share their experiences. One such communicator is Kevin Hines, who became a prolific writer and speaker after surviving a jump

telemarketer. ``I'm so depressed,'' he says. ``If you hang up, I'll kill myself.'' What's new in the past couple of years is a broader phenomenon - a surge of collective projects by survivors, corresponding with a keener and more systematic interest by prevention experts in their potential contributions. ``The voices of people who have thought about suicide and possibly attempted suicide have been largely absent from public conversations about suicide and what should be done about it,'' says Karen Butler Easter, president of National Association of Crisis Center Directors. ``They know what hurts, and they know what helps.'' One asset that survivors say they can supply is candor. ``We are willing to speak truthfully, even if others are

What's new in the past couple of years is a broader phenomenon - a surge of collective projects by survivors, corresponding with a keener and more systematic interest by prevention experts in their potential contributions from the Golden Gate Bridge in 2000. A survivor in Canada, David Granirer, has carved out a specialty as a stand-up comedian whose monologues address depression and mental illness. Among Granirer's routines is a feigned phone conversation in which he unsettles a smarmy

afraid to,'' writes Sabrina Strong in her recent blog post. ``We understand that we do others a disservice by providing generic and whitewashed advice from the school of magical thinking `Things will get better.' `Everything's all right.' Cont'd on Page 36

Fewer Californians get health care at work Cont'd from Page 32

Low-income uninsured people will be steered to safety net programs such as Medicaid. The report notes that even with the federal health care changes, employer-sponsored insurance will continue to be a major source of coverage. In part because of the large role of agriculture and tourism in its labor force, California has a lower rate of employer-sponsored coverage and one of the nation's highest rates of uninsured residents, said Anthony Wright, executive director of Health Access California, a group that lobbies for health care for the poor. ``The fact that we had less of a

decline may simply be because we're starting from a lower place already,'' he said. Wright said new insurance rules and market changes are intended to stop the decline in employer-sponsored coverage. For example, small businesses will receive tax credits as an incentive to provide health coverage, people with pre-existing conditions will not be denied access to care and some middle-class Americans will get help paying for health insurance. ``The hope is that the Affordable Care Act stabilizes employerbased coverage and provides an option and an alternative for those who don't get coverage on the job,'' he said.-AP

April 26, 2013

Health Science Post

India Post 35

www.indiapost.com

Polio vaccine developer Koprowski dead PHILADELPHIA: Dr. Hilary Koprowski, a pioneering virologist who developed the first successful oral vaccination for polio, died this week at his suburban Philadelphia home. He was 96. Although not as well-known as fellow researchers Jonas Salk and Albert Sabin,

Dr. Hilary Koprowski

Koprowski's 1950 clinical trial was the first to show it was possible to vaccinate against polio, the crippling and sometimes fatal disease that's now all but eradicated. Koprowski's son, Christopher, said his father liked the scientific recognition his work received without the celebrity of Salk and Sabin. ``He enjoyed not having his scientific work disrupted,'' said Christopher

Koprowski, chief of radiation oncology at Christiana Care Health System in Wilmington, Del. ``Not that he was a modest individual, mind you.'' Christopher Koprowski said his father had been sick for several months before dying in the same Wynnewood home he'd lived in since 1957. Hilary Koprowski self-administered the live-virus oral vaccine he developed before the 1950 trial - about two years before Salk's injectable version using a dead form of the virus began testing with the backing of the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis, now the March of Dimes. Sabin, who Koprowski's son said sometimes collaborated with his father, was the first to get the more-effective oral version, which didn't require boosters, licensed for use in the U.S. Koprowski went on to be the director of The Wistar Institute in Philadelphia from 1957 to 1991. Under his leadership, the independent research institution developed a rubella vaccine that helped eradicate the disease in much of the world, Wistar officials said. It was during that time the institute also developed a more effective rabies vaccine. A talented musician, the Polish-born Koprowski was a penniless immigrant in Rio de Janeiro making money teaching piano before hooking up with a lab there and eventually moving to the United States, his son said. ``He was a great dad. He was colorful, charismatic,'' Christopher Koprowski said. ``He's still the most brilliant person I've ever met.'' -AP

Detecting cancer & brain diseases more quickly by Dr Singh method Cont'd from Page 32

"I am confident that Dr Singh research will continue to help other scientists to apply the strategies he has developed and used so successfully for brain tumors to many other types of solid-tumor cancers" he said. With advances in genomics increasingly playing an important role in solid-tumor oncology, Singh's expertise strengthens the big data science in translational, solid-tumor research. Employing a sophisticated system of mathematical equations known as a Big data model, researchers found that metastatic lung cancer does not progress in a single direction from primary tumor site to distant locations, which has been the traditional medical view. Instead, they found that cancer cell movement around the body likely occurs in more than one direction at a time. Researchers also learned that the first site to which the cells spread plays a key role in the progression of the disease. The study showed that some parts of the body serve as "sponges" that are relatively unlikely to further spread lung cancer cells. Other areas were identified as "spreaders" for lung cancer cells.

As part of research, Researchers are able to able to apply Dr Singh's analytics technology to develop algorithms for big data containing genomic datasets to uncover critical factors that speed up disease progression in Cancer. Insights gained from the research are shared with hundreds of doctors within US and internationally to better tailor the personalized treatments to slow cancer growth, physical disability, cognitive and impairments. Using Dr Singh's analytics technology, Researchers from University of UC Davis, Sutter Health, and Kaiser Permanente can for the first time explore clinical and patient specific data to find trends among cancer patients by looking at factors such as gender, geography, ethnicity, diet, lifestyle and exercise. The Big Data includes lab results, patient genomic datasets, medical records, chemotherapy results, medical imaging ( CT/MRI/ SPECT) and patient surveys and questionnaire arrives in various formats and sizes required researchers to spend days making it manageable before they can analyze it.

'Space travel may up colon cancer risk' WASHINGTON: Space travel may increase the risk of colon cancer, a new study led by Indian-origin scientists has warned. Researchers, from Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, found that cosmic radiation impairs the ability of cells in the intestines of mice to eliminate oncogenic proteins, thus substantially increasing development of colorectal tumors. The study funded by NASA is important because it might provide a direction for researchers in designing strategies to protect space travelers against increased

cellular biology. "These findings have implications for the health of astronauts undertaking exploratory missions into outer space and for future space tourists," he said in a statement. "Our objective is to develop a risk estimate based on mouse model studies and to identify molecular mechanisms contributing to it, so that we can develop strategies to protect astronauts during long duration space missions, such as one to Mars," said Lombardi Fornace, director of the NASA program at Georgetown. Both researchers used specialized mutant mice to study the effects of Both researchers used special- 56Fe radiation, a highly ionizing radiation prevalent in space. ized mutant mice to study the "This radiation is considered the effects of 56Fe radiation, a greatest challenge for space exploration. It deposits higher amount of highly ionizing radiation energy in the body than does the prevalent in space gamma-/x-rays causing relatively higher DNA damage. This is believed cancer risk, said the scientists, Shubhankar to increase carcinogenic risk in astronauts, Suman and Kamal Datta. although accurate risk estimates are not yet "While there is no reliable estimate of available," said Datta. colorectal cancer risk from space radiation Researchers also report that 56Fe radiaexposure, we have shown that exposure to tion significantly increased colorectal cancer cosmic radiation causes markedly in- risk in mouse models of colorectal cancer creased intestinal tumors in mice," said through enhanced activity of beta-catenin, Datta, an assistant professor in the depart- an oncogene that activates expression of proment of biochemistry and molecular and growth genes in the colon. -PTI

Health Science Post

India Post

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

Reducing salt, increasing potassium Fruit compound can help can ward off stroke treat skin cancer

utting down on salt and at the same time increasing levels of potassium in our diets will save millions of lives every year from heart disease and stroke, according to new research. Three new studies published in British Medical Journal found that increasing potassium intake as well as cutting down on salt will reduce the risk of stroke.

The first study examined the effects of modest salt reduction on blood pressure, hormones, and blood fats (lipids) from 34 trials involving over 3,000 adults. It found a modest reduction in salt for four or more weeks led to significant falls in blood pressure in people with both raised and

normal blood pressure. The effect was seen in white and black people and in men and women, thereby reducing strokes, heart attacks, and heart failure across populations. Similar results were found in a second analysis of 56 studies; of which 37 were high quality studies reporting blood pressure, blood lipids, catecholamine levels

or renal function. It found that reduced salt intake reduces blood pressure and has no adverse effect on blood lipids, hormone levels, or kidney function. Moderate quality evidence in children also showed a reduction in sodium intake reduces blood pressure.

Suicide survivors help to shape prevention efforts collaborative treatment. Yet prevention experts say many therapists ``Sometimes things don't get lack specialized training in how to better, at least not right away.'' deal with survivors and balk at treatHistorically, prevention spe- ing them because their above-avercialists made relatively little ef- age rate of eventually killing themfort to seek input from people selves prompts fear of malpractice who tried to kill themselves. Ex- suits by their families. perts say treatment often was Among those serving with and in some cases still is - con- Draper and Vega on the new task descending, and at times harsh force is Heidi Bryan, who survived and punitive. a suicide attempt in the 1980s and whose brother did kill himself. Bryan, 55, has been active ``I remember sitting at a for more than a decade in suiconference when speakcide prevention initiatives and ers were talking about has observed notable survivors - it was like we changes in how experts view survivors. were lab rats,'' she said. ``I remember sitting at a ``Now they're finally realconference when speakers izing maybe we should were talking about survivors be brought in on this. - it was like we were lab rats,'' she said. ``Now they're finally ``The attitude was that if a per- realizing maybe we should be son tried to kill themselves, they brought in on this. We need to erase were irresponsible, they were not the misperceptions that people people we could trust, and we knew have about us, so we're treated with what's better for them,'' said John the respect we deserve.'' Draper. ``There also was some conTo help survivors think through cern that they might kill themselves the consequences of sharing their if we engaged them.'' story, major prevention organizaThose attitudes have evolved in tions recently teamed up to offer recent years, with more interest in guidelines and suggestions. -AP Cont'd from Page 34

Lower sodium intake was also associated with reduced risk of stroke and fatal coronary heart disease in adults. The totality of evidence suggests that reducing sodium intake should be part of public health efforts to reduce blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases, and will likely benefit most individuals, concluded the authors. A third study analyzed data on potassium intake and health from 33 trials involving over 128,000 healthy participants. Potassium is found in most fresh fruits and vegetables and pulses (legumes). The results showed that increased potassium intake reduces blood pressure in adults, with no adverse effects on blood lipids, hormone levels or kidney function. Higher potassium intake was linked with a 24 per cent lower risk of stroke in adults and may also have a beneficial effect on blood pressure in children, but more data is needed. -PTI

WASHINGTON: Scientists, including an Indian-origin researcher, have discovered that gossypin - a naturally-occurring substance found in fruits and

vegetables - can help treat melanoma, the most deadly type of skin cancer. "We identified gossypin as a novel agent with dual inhibitory activity towards two common mutations that are the ideal targets for melanoma treatment," said researcher Hareesh Nair from Texas

Biomedical Research Institute. "Our results indicate that gossypin may have great therapeutic potential as a dual inhibitor of mutations called BRAFV600E kinase and CDK4, which occur in the vast majority of melanoma patients," he said. "They open a new avenue for the generation of a novel class of compounds for the treatment of melanoma," he added. Nair and his colleagues found that gossypin inhibited human melanoma cell proliferation, in vitro, in melanoma cell lines that harbor the two mutations. Gossypin stunted activities of the mutated genes, possibly through direct binding with them. It also inhibited the growth of various human melanoma cells.PTI

Alarming state of contraception needs not being met Cont'd from Page 33

There are 30 million episodes of STIs/RTIs in India, about 360 million women are at risk of develop cervical cancer and utilization of spacing methods is very low. Dr Badri Saxena said that "Unmet need has been 15-21% since last one decade." WHO estimates that number of new cases of curable STIs in 2008 were as follows: 105.7 million cases of Chlamydia, 106.1 million cases of Gonorrhoea, 10.6 million cases of Syphilis and more than 200 mil-

evidence-based methods accessible then we might be severely limiting prevention options for those most in need. Unmet need of contraception Dr SK Sikdar, Family Planning Division, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India said that although family planning is a core Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (RMNCH) intervention, "unmet need of contraception is 21.3% and contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) is 54%." Further elaborat-

A news published in The Times of India a year after the ban on ECP in Tamil Nadu reported rise in abortions. Dr Khan suggested that engaging political and other interest groups in such public health and gender justice interventions is very important lion cases of Trichomoniasis, among others. There are loads of lessons to be learnt on why specific programs worked or did not work as expected. For example although US FDA had approved female condoms in 1993, 20 years later even today they are still far from being available and more importantly accessible to common citizens in India. If we are not making

ing on current use of family planning methods, Dr Sikdar said that female sterilization was practiced by 34% but male sterilization practice was limited to 1%, pills 4%, IUD 2%, condom: 5-6% and other traditional methods 7%." Dr ME Khan, Senior Program Associate and lead person on reproductive health at Population Council, highlighted other challenges in introducing and

expanding prevention options such as emergency contraceptive pills (ECP) in Indian context. Dr Khan said that due to objections from some political and other interest groups, "ECP was banned in Tamil Nadu but available over the counter (OTC) in all other states of India." Perhaps public health advocates should have done a more effective job in addressing concerns of those against ECP. Not surprisingly, a news published in The Times of India a year after the ban on ECP in Tamil Nadu reported rise in abortions. Dr Khan suggested that engaging political and other interest groups in such public health and gender justice interventions is very important. Dr Khan highlighted another challenge: logistics, especially in public sector. "Procurement process is often cumbersome. The gap between first and second supply of ECP was three years: how are healthcare workers supposed to remember their training for such a long period when ECP supply is not consistent?" Speaking on innovative health communications Dr Khan pointed out that conventional media such as radio, TV or print (and online) does not reach 2/3rd of female population in Indian states such as UP and Bihar. -CNS

April 26, 2013

India Post 37

www.indiapost.com

New York (Hicksville)

AIRWING TRAVELS INC.

Tel: (516) 931 4600

SEEMA WORLD TRAVEL, INC. One of the Oldest Travel Agencies in St. Louis

Competitive Rates & Confirmed Seats for All Major Airlines 10635 Page Ave., St. Louis, MO 63132

Est. 1991 Toll Free: (866) 532 3413

New Jersey (Iselin)

Tel: (732) 658 5450

Lowest Fares / Confirmed Seats to INDIA & Other Destinations Worldwide Save upto 40% on First and Business Class OPEN 7 DAYS - Call or Email : AIRWINGTRAVELS@GMAIL.COM

NEWS on your desktop

Tel: (314) 423-9990 or (800) 55 SEEMA Fax: (314) 423-0391

www.indiapost.com

India Post

www.indiapost.com

SKY WORLD TRAVEL 1-888-695-0005

CONSOLIDATORS (INTL. & DOMESTIC) : 3HWHUVRQ 6WH &KLFDJR ,/

SPECIAL LOW FARES TO BOMBAY, DELHI, MADRAS, CALCUTTA, DHAKA, KARACHI, LAHORE etc. Tel: 773-728-9071 773-315-8597

E-mail us at: skyworldtravels@hotmail.com

FOR ALL YOUR

MATCHLESS EXPRESS TOURS 2600 W. Peterson Ave., Suite 105 Chicago IL 60659 Experienced Travel Consultants Pasport and Visa Services available * Confirmed seats (Even in High season) * Low Airfares * Courteous Service 2240-42 West Devon Chicago IL 60659 Ph# 773-338-4080 Fax# 773-338-4088

Call and Contact

Tel. (773) 338 6260

TRAVEL NEEDS INTERNATIONAL DOMESTIC AIR INDIA AND ALL OTHER MAJOR AIRLINES. PACKAGE DEAL TAJ TOUR-SOTC

CALL:

Sita Ram Patel @ 847-568-0535

April 26, 2013

India Post

www.indiapost.com

he Dudh Sagar waterfall is situated in the Indian state of Goa around 60 km off Panaji, the capital of the state. It is con nected to the other places in the state like Panaji and Margao with a road and railway network. Legend has it that in the days gone by, there lived a powerful and rich king on the top of a mountain in the Western Ghats along the Goan frontier. He lived in a lavish palace made of pure ivory and embedded by precious stones. And around this palace, there were luxuriant gardens abounding in a vast variety of flowers. At one end of the forest, which fringed the king's palace, there was a picturesque lake. In the panoramic setting of this lake, the king's daughter, accompanied by her ladies-in-waiting, went to bathe and to sip sugared milk which one of her maids served to her in a pure gold jug. One day, while she was sipping at the milk, a prince, who was passing by, stopped on hearing the sound of people nearby. Immediately, the princess poured the milk in the pond to shield her body from the glances of the stranger. It is believed that the sugared milk that was poured by the virtuous and modest princess still comes flowing down in torrents along that side of the mountain. Tourist attractions: Perched on the lofty peaks

April 26, 2013

of the Western Ghats, the Dudh Sagar waterfalls offer unrivalled beauty and amazing scenery full of exquisite charms when in full flux after the monsoon showers. Like an idyllic Eden cradled luxuriously in the mountains, the Dudh Sagar waterfalls, which from a distance appear like milky streams, gradually climax into a gushing cascade as they come into full view of the onlookers. Undoubtedly there are other wonderful waterfalls in the rest of this wide world, but the Dudh

Undoubtedly there are other wonderful waterfalls in the rest of this wide world, but the Dudh Sagar waterfalls with their strange, mystical fascination are a dream come true Sagar waterfalls with their strange, mystical fascination are a dream come true. The uneclipsed vision, furnished by this native waterfall as it plunges over crag-covered precipes and stupendous steeps, belies description. How to reach: Dudh Sagar is situated around 60 km off Panaji. Buses and taxis are available from Panaji to reach Dudh Sagar.

India Post

Travel & Hospitality Post

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

NJ city seeks to capitalize on its twin landmarks PATERSON, N.J.: Mention America's historic landmarks and most people will envision battlefields, statues or beautiful scenery, not a crumbling, graffiti-covered shell of a ball field surrounded by abandoned cars, broken glass and piles of garbage. The years of neglect can't erase what Hinchliffe Stadium once was, a hub of activity that in its heyday was filled to capacity for Negro League baseball games featuring future Hall of Famers Satchel Paige, Larry Doby and Monte Irvin and teams like the New York Black Yankees, the New York Cubans and the Newark Eagles. The once-grand Art Deco stadium earned designation last month as a national landmark - less than two years after the nearby Great Falls, a powerful 77-foot waterfall that helped fuel the Industrial Revolution, became a national park. The twin successes have stirred pride in this struggling

working-class city beset by decades of crime and financial difficulties. Now, those who fought to gain recognition for the two sites

owners and to develop a plan to make the park more visitor friendly, said Darren Boch, the park superintendent. An audio tour will be available this month. It is narrated by N B C ``Nightly News'' anchor and New Jersey native Brian WillHinchliffe Stadium iams, with face new challenges in trying to contributions from Paterson native turn them into major attractions and New York Giants wide receiver and an economic boost for Pater- Victor Cruz and Pulitzer Prize-winson, whose textile mills in the late ning author Junot Diaz. It ad19th and early 20th centuries dresses the confusion visitors may earned it the name Silk City. feel visiting a park built around a The National Park Service is waterfall in the heart of a densely working to acquire land around the packed city of nearly 150,000, less waterfall from the city and other than 15 miles from Manhattan.

``For a lot of Americans, the idea of a national park evokes the likes of Yellowstone or Yosemite, and like them, this national park features a spectacular natural wonder,'' Williams narrates. He speaks further about how Alexander Hamilton, the nation's first treasury secretary, envisioned harnessing the power of the falls to create the nation's first planned industrial city in Paterson, helping to transform America from an agrarian society into an industrial powerhouse capable of breaking free from British control. Generations of immigrant workers were employed in factories powered by energy from the Great Falls, where water from the Passaic River rushes over at a rate of 2 billion gallons per day, making it the second largest waterfall east of the Mississippi River, by volume, next to Niagara Falls. ``That's what sets apart the visi-

tor experience here,'' Boch said. ``You have the two experiences: a natural wonder in an urban landscape that goes to the heart of the industrial American experience.'' Those who worked for years to save the ballpark, which was also famous for midget car racing and fielded generations of local school

Great Falls

teams, hope to one day have it included in the footprint of the national park. It's just as important a part of American history, they say, though it represents a different era. It's one of only a handful of Negro Leagues stadiums still around, according to the group Friends of Hinchliffe Stadium, which fought for years to save the structure. Cont’d on page 41

If You are looking For the BEST & the MOST AUTHENTIC VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT IN TOWNCome to One and Only One Place

Publicly Acclaimed Top Vegetarian Restaurant Serving NORTH INDIAN • SOUTH INDIAN • GUJARATI • JAIN DISHES

TASTE OUR 30 PLUSE MOUTH WATERING DISHES ONCE YOU COME

2508 W. Devon Ave.Chicago, IL 60659

Tel:(773) 274-5800 Fax: (773) 262-4465 E-mail: aryabhavan@aol.com www.aryabhavan.com

CATERING IS OUR SPECIALITY

April 26, 2013

Travel & Hospitality Post

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Singapore starts building Indian Heritage Centre SINGAPORE: Singapore has started a USD 9.69 million building an Indian Heritage Centre which will showcase trades and culture of early Indian settlers in the city state when completed in 2015. The centre "will offer an immersive and interactive experience for all visitors, through multimedia displays which contain images and interviews, guiding devices ... tracing key migration patterns," said Singapore Deputy Prime Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the ground breaking ceremony. It is located in Serangoon Road or "Little India", a shopping precinct where one can find a wide

range of shops and businesses dealing in Indian products and foods. When completed, the centre would look like a "shining jewel" in the day and a welcoming "glowing lattern" in the night," said Shanmugaratnam on the center's design. The centre would also feature a mixture of modern and traditional Indian architectural elements. Artifacts and pictures of early days of the Indian migrants were being donated by the local Indians to the centre. About 200 Indian community and business leaders attended the ground breaking ceremony this morning.-PTI

NJ city seeks to capitalize on its twin landmarks Cont’d from page 40

and others have said, will be trying to raise the rest of the funds from private donors, grants and the state to restore the stadium to its former glory. The efforts in Paterson to win national status for the falls and the ballpark were aided by a growing push to recognize the nation's quieter heroes: the immigrant laborer or the Negro Leagues player who may not have had Jackie Robinson's name recognition but fought alongside him to change

The list of baseball greats who played there - to integrated audiences in 20th century, segregated America - include 11 players in the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame. Among them are Doby, who went to high school in Paterson before becoming the first AfricanAmerican player to integrate the American League, and Irvin. Irvin recounted recently how thrilled he had been in 1938 to set foot in Hinchliffe Stadium for the first time as a 17-year-old tryout “I want people to know that for the Newark Eagles it was one of the famous and to hear someone call out to his idol, Buck parks where the Negro Leonard, ``Hey, Buck, Leagues played, some of who is that young- the biggest stars played ster?'' ``I want people to there,”' Irvin, now 94, told know that it was one of The Associated Press’ the famous parks where the Negro Leagues played, the status quo, said Giacomo some of the biggest stars played DeStefano, director of the Paterthere,'' Irvin, now 94, told The As- son Museum. The move to get the waterfall sociated Press from his home in Houston. ``Maybe baseball can designated a national park also again become very prominent at dovetailed with the recognition by the National Park Service that it the park.'' Paterson city officials hope so, too. needed to attract more minorities Hinchliffe is owned by the to parks to sustain the system in school system, which shut it down an increasingly diverse America, in 1997 because it could no longer said Leonard Zax, president of the Hamilton Partnership for Paterson, afford to keep it up. Renovation cost estimates which lobbied Congress for fedreach as high as $20 million to eral recognition of both sites. With nearly 60 percent of bring the park back to life. The City Council voted to recognize it as Paterson's population of Latino local landmark a few weeks ago descent and more than 30 percent and have allocated $1.5 million for African-American, the city fit in its immediate stabilization, Mayor perfectly with the Park Service's vision of a ```national park for the Jeffery Jones said. The next challenge, the mayor 21st century,'' Zax said.-AP

Kashmir being promoted as 365-day tourism centre JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Minister G A Mir has welcomed the decision of some Euro-

pean nations to lift the travel advisory for the state and said Kashmir was being projected as a

round-the-year tourism destination. "We welcome the lifting of travel advisories to Jammu and Kashmir by some European countries. Kashmir was being promoted as a 365-day travel destination," Mir said at threeday joint session of United Nations World Tourism Organization at Hyderabad.

People from across the world need to visit Kashmir and spend few days here, an official release quoting the Minister said. Mir has said the state government was making all efforts to promote and showcase the state's tourism potential for its economic revival. He said the need of the hour is not tourism growth alone but development of tourism in a sustainable manner. With heritage and cultural values dating back to thousands of years, architectural and natural marvels and an unmatched bio-diversity, the state has several attractions for visitors from the world, the tourism minister said. -PTI

Travel & Hospitality Post

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Kerala launches e-book on Ayurveda THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Tourism has launched two e-books on Ayurveda, factoring in the growing interest in ancient Indian wellness system from foreign as well as domestic visitors to the state. Billed as the first ever attempt

at electronic publication of its kind by a tourism board in the country, the venture forms part of the state's endeavor to digitize a host of unique aspects of the state, including its socio-cultural and its centuries old contributions to

health living. Releasing the book here last evening, tourism minister A P Anil Kumar noted that Kerala had been a pioneer in using digital tools for promoting the destination. A 15-minute film on Kerala's Western Ghats, besides two brochures on the excavation site of the ancient port of Muziris near Kochi and key festivals and events of the state in 2013 were also released on the occasion. The e-books formed the coffee table set on Panchakarma: Ayurveda's Mantra of Rejuvenation, explaining its holistic approach combining five therapeutic actions to detoxify and revitalize the body. Other e-books launched were Kerala: A Poem in Green and Gold,

a storehouse of information on Kerala by former Chief Secretary and lyricist K Jayakumar and YogaSutra, The Art and Science of Living. Published by IT solutions provider Invis Multimedia, the four ebooks will be available at online stores for purchase, and for reading on mobile phones or computer screens. "These are aimed at people around the world, to help them learn about the age-old system of medicine so that they can come to Kerala and experience its health benefits," Anil Kumar said. Titled The Call of the Wild, the 15-minute film on Kerala's Western Ghats cover seven major locations and the Northern and Southern bordering points of the GhatsEravikulam National Park, Silent Valley National Park, Mathikettan Shola, Pampadum Shola National Park, Anamudi Shola National Park, Myristica swamps and the Palakkad pass. -PTI

April 26, 2013

Travel & Hospitality Post

India Post

www.indiapost.com

India begins process of group US asks citizens to defer non-essential travel to Pak tourist visa for Pakistanis NEW DELHI: Days after launching visa-on-arrival facility for senior Pakistani citizens, India has started the process of providing the 'group tourist visa' on a reciprocal basis. The 'group tourist' visa was to

that as the situation along the India-Pakistan border has improved, New Delhi is awaiting a response from Islamabad on the list of authorized tour operators for launching the 'group tourist' visa facility.

be launched from March 15 but it was put on hold after tension along the border following the brutal killing of two Indian soldiers. Besides, Pakistan has so far failed to send a list of authorized tour operators to India. Home Ministry officials said

India has already identified 18 such tour\travel operators on its side and shared it with Pakistan Home Ministry, the officials said. According to the new liberalized visa pact between the two countries, group tourist visa would be offered for a period of

BJP, Cong step up opposition to Playboy's Goa plan PANAJI: The BJP Goa unit has decided to stand by its legislator who has opposed Playboy Club's plan to open a branch at Candolim beach which has been under consideration of the state tourism ministry. The state Congress unit has also expressed its reservations over opening of such a facility in the state. The BJP does not approve of having Playboy Club being started in Goa and we will take up the issue with the state government, party's Goa unit spokesman Dr Wilfred Mesquita told reporters here. The state BJPled government is considering the proposal by the US-based club's franchisee to open its branch in Goa. BJP legislator Michael Lobo

has threatened to go on a hunger strike if the club is given permission, claiming that it would encourage vulgar tourism in the state. "We are definitely taking into consideration the objections raised by Lobo. We will talk to the government," said Mesquita, who

was flanked by Goa unit president Vinay Tendulkar and party's national secretary Aarati Mehra during the press conference.-PTI

30 days to tourists traveling in groups with not less than 10 members and not more than 50 members, organized by approved tour operators or travel agents. Though the visa pact was signed in September last year, it could not be operationalised until December 14 when Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde and his Pakistani counterpart Rehman Malik had formally launched the process. Some clauses of the relaxed visa regime like multiple-entry and police reporting-free visas for businessmen and allowing them to travel to five cities instead of the earlier three had come into force in December last year. Later, on April 1, both the countries had started visa-on-arrival facility for each other's senior citizens (more than 65 years of age). This is a single-entry visa, granted for a maximum of 45 days. The facility was started at the Attari Integrated Check Post (ICP) on reciprocal basis. The visa-on-arrival facility was scheduled to be started from January 15 but was put on hold in the wake of tension along the border after the killing of two Indian soldiers. -PTI

Aus, India share expertise on heritage conservation JAIPUR: Australian and Indian heritage conservation experts shared their expertise on museum collections, heritage architecture and cultural tourism conservation in a seminar here. During the seminar 'Heritage Conservation-An international perspective', a five-member team of the Australian heritage conservationists shared its architecture and cultural tourism expertise with the Indian experts. Charlotte Galloway, who teaches curatorial studies in Australian National University deliberated on collection management of artifacts and their physical care. She also discussed issues relating to collection policies and how the documentation and provenance should be done and how a collection management system in a museum should be evolved. A stone consultant and a heritage stone conservation expert Jim Mann said that as a large number of heritage structure in India were made of stones, there was need to study the stone elements of the heritage structure.-PTI

WASHINGTON: The US has urged to leave Pakistan as soon asked its citizens to defer all non- as possible," it said. essential travel to Pakistan, saying According to the advisory, that the presence of several foreign since the announcement that and indigenous terrorist groups Osama bin Laden was killed in poses a "potential danger" to Abbottabad, Pakistan on May 2, American citizens in the country. 2011, US citizens should be aware Replacing its previous travel of the possible increase in the advisory of September 19, 2012, threat level throughout the counthe US State Department said that try. threat reporting indicates terrorist "Rallies, demonstrations, and groups continue to seek opportu- processions occur regularly nities to attack locations where US throughout Pakistan on very short citizens and Westerners are known notice. Demonstrations might take to congregate or visit. on an anti-US or anti-Western In its travel advisory, the US character, and US citizens are urged State Department alleged that to avoid large gatherings," it said. American citizens, seeking ser"Anti-US protests in Septemvices from the US Consulates General in Karachi and Peshawar, Citing security concerns, are subjected to ques- host-government intellitioning by local secugence officials frequently rity officials. "Citing security stop US citizens outside the concerns, host-gov- Consulates and obtain their ernment intelligence officials frequently stop personal information before US citizens outside the allowing them to proceed Consulates and obtain their personal information before ber 2012 attracted large crowds allowing them to proceed. US citi- outside US diplomatic facilities in zens might later be visited at their all major cities and caused casualhomes or offices and questioned ties and significant property damabout the nature of their business age. in Pakistan and the purpose of their "The Mission reminds US citivisit to the Consulate," the travel zens that even peaceful demonstraadvisory said. tions might become violent and The kidnapping of Pakistani citi- advises them to avoid demonstrazens and other foreign nationals, tions. Given multiple demands for usually for ransom, continues to resources, local authorities may increase nationwide. "US citizens, have limited capacity to respond to who feel they are in danger or their requests for assistance," the travel security is at risk, are strongly advisory added. -PTI

UNWTO's open letter campaign enlists India NEW DELHI: UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has handed over an 'open letter' to Vice President Hamid Ansari as part of an effort urging leaders from across the world to position travel and tourism higher on the global agenda. The letter was handed over by UNWTO Secretary General Taleb Rifai, who was accompanied by Union Tourism Minister K Chiranjeevi. The letter was also signed by President and CEO of World Travel and Tourism Council David Scowsill. The aim is to send a message to the world the message of according high priority to the development of the tourism sector for promoting employment opportunities and economic development, said

a government statement. Launched in 2011, the open letter campaign has so far enlisted 47 countries. The letter states that travel and tourism currently accounts directly and indirectly for about 3 per cent to 5 per cent of global GDP, as well as 30 per cent of the world's export of services. It also states that total contribution of travel and tourism to employment-including jobs indirectly supported by the sector is estimated at 7 per cent to 8 per cent. This makes Travel & Tourism a vital contributor to the global development agenda, affording it a unique role in building strong, sustainable and balanced global growth, the latter underscores. PTI

In Brief Migrant rafters rescued by 2 cruise ships MIAMI: Two cruise ships have rescued migrant rafters off the Florida Keys. U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Mark Barney said that the Disney Wonder and the Carnival Conquest both spotted ``rustic vessels'' in separate incidents. According to a Carnival statement, the Conquest picked up 13 Cuban nationals about 40 miles (64 kilometers) from Key West. The ship was expected to rendezvous with a Coast Guard cutter near Key West to transfer them. A Disney statement says the Wonder picked up eight people about 45 miles (72 kilometers) from Key West, but their nationality wasn't immediately known. The company was working with the Coast Guard to determine its next steps. Crews on both ships provided their new passengers with food, water and medical attention. No injuries or deaths were reported. -AP

Florida House extends in-state tuition break TALLAHASSEE, Fla: Following a sometimes passionate debate where lawmakers spoke in Spanish and Creole, the Florida House overwhelmingly approved a bill that would offer in-state tuition rates to the children of immigrants in the country without permission. The House vote was 111-4, but the fate of the bill is unclear since similar legislation in the Senate has barely moved this session. The legislation comes months after a federal court decision invalidated state college and university rules that require higher tuition rates to Florida-residents who are U.S. citizens but dependent on parents who are in the U.S. without legal permission. ``If you are an American citizen, you will be treated like an American citizen,'' House Speaker Will Weatherford, R-Wesley Chapel, said from the speaker's rostrum moments after the bill passed. A spokeswoman for Senate President Don Gaetz could not say if the Senate would act on the bill. Katie Betta said that the Senate was ``taking a look at it.'' Four Republicans in the GOPcontrolled House voted against the bill including Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fort Walton Beach, the son of the Senate president.-AP

Immigration 44

India Post

www.indiapost.com

April 26, 2013

Colo. immigrant driver's license bill gets 1st OK Details on page 47

Thousands rally across US pressing for citizenship to immigrants WASHINGTON: Tens of thousands of immigrants and activists rallied across the U.S. April 10 in a coordinated set of protests aimed at pressing Congress to approve immigration measures that would grant 11 million immigrants living here illegally a path toward citizenship. Organizers said demonstrations were taking place in at least 18 states and in Washington, where a large, festive crowd gathered on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol. ``We won't win immigration reform just coming to Washington. We need to walk the streets all over the country,'' said Ben Monterroso, national director of civic participation of the Service Employees International Union, which represents nurses and lower-wage employees including janitors and child care workers. In Atlanta, more than 1,000 people marched around the Georgia Capitol midday, calling for comprehensive changes to immigration policy and an end to deportation. In San Francisco, several hundred demonstrators marched toward the federal building holding red and orange paper flowers representing the number of people deported daily for immigration violations. Immigration activists rally across California Members of the expanding

Protesters for immigration reform march near the Georgia Capitol April 10, in Atlanta

crowd chanted in English and Spanish and held signs and banners reading ``Reunite Families

Now,'' ``Undocumented...Unafraid,'' ``We Will No Longer Remain in the Shadows'' and ``Don't Deport An-

other Dream.'' ``We are here because of our ancestors, our future generations and those who are detained,'' said the Rev. Deborah Lee of the Interfaith Coalition for Immigrant Rights in Northern California, one of groups taking part in the demonstration. ``We are here for all of our families,'' she said. Another demonstrator, Eva Seligman-Kennard, a board member of the Jewish Community Relations Council, also voiced her support for immigration reform. ``We are all immigrants and nobody is free until we all are free,'' she said. Dozens of police officers monitored the crowd, which was peaceful during the march. As the procession snaked its way toward the Federal Building before the evening rush hour commute, many marchers held red and orange paper flowers they said represented the scores of people deported daily for immigration violations. ``They're taking a stand for comprehensive immigration reform,'' San Francisco Supervisor John Avalos said. ``This is very important.'' Cont'd on Page 47

AAPI urges not to ignore doctors in reform WASHINGTON: An influential professional body of IndianAmerican doctors has appealed to US lawmakers "not to ignore" physicians from the comprehensive immigration reforms, arguing that America faces shortage of doctors. During its day-long activities at the Capitol Hill, members of the powerful American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) - which is a national representative's body of thousands of IndianAmerican doctors - met Congressmen to press for their points. US lawmakers tended to support the AAPI's agenda.

"We want the best, the brightest and the bravest to stay here," Congressman Joe Crowley, CoChair of the Congressional India Caucus, said in his address to APPI members, assuring that he

the "Resident Physician Shortage Reduction Act of 2013" which would provide an additional 15,000 residency positions in fiscal 20152019. "The next Thomas Edison or

"We should be encouraging them to come here. But the reality is under the changes after 9/11 in our asylum laws, it would be more difficult for the Albert Einsteins to come to the US than we did before the second world war,, would work for their legislative agenda. In fact, Crowley is sponsor of

Thomas Singh Edison would be from China or India. We may be blessed that he or she could be

born here and his or her last name would be Singh," Crowley said. "We should be encouraging them to come here. But the reality is under the changes after 9/ 11 in our asylum laws, it would be more difficult for the Albert Einsteins to come to the US than we did before the second world war. That in itself speaks for itself for the need for change in immigration laws," Crowley said. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) predicts that America will need 90,000 physicians by 2020. The number of physicians needed by 2025 according to the AAMC will reach a staggering 130,000. Cont'd on Page 46

Immigration Post

April 26, 2013

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Congressmen urged to raise H-1B quota for Indian IT WASHINGTON: Observing that nearly 30 per cent of all companies started in the US in 2011 had immigrant founders, Indian IT professionals have appealed to Congressmen to not only consider increasing the H-1B quota but also quicken and smooth green card for them. They told the Congressmen that the immigrant-based businesses have generated more than USD 775 billion in revenue for American economy. Over the past few days, a large number of Indian IT professionals from across the country under

North American Association of Indian IT Professional (NAIIP), met several dozen lawmakers over including to have their voice heard and incorporate their views

in the comprehensive immigration reform. Urging the Congress to increase H-1B visa quota, NAIIP demanded that revalidation of H-1B

If the country specific visa system is lifted employers could bring in more technology experienced employees according to their needs from any country, it argued

Zuckerberg launches lobby on immigration reform WASHINGTON: Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg unveiled a new political action group he is spearheading to press for reforms in areas including immigra-

The group called FWD.us was created amid an intense debate on Congress on immigration, with lawmakers considering a "path to citizenship" for some 11 million

Mark Zuckerberg

tion and education. "To lead the world in this new economy, we need the most talented and hardest-working people. We need to train and attract the best. We need those middle-school students to be tomorrow's leaders," Zuckerberg said in an opinion piece published in the Washington Post.

visa be allowed to be done within the US. If the country specific visa system is lifted employers could bring in more technology experienced

undocumented immigrants, as well as measures to boost the number of immigrants with high-tech skills. Zuckerberg said he supports a measure which accomplishes both those goals. "Comprehensive immigration reform that begins with effective border security, allows a path to citizenship and lets us attract the

most talented and hardest-working people, no matter where they were born," he wrote. The new group's founders include others from the tech sector, including LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman, Dropbox chief Drew Houston and John Doerr, from the venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers. Contributors include Google chairman Eric Schmidt, Yahoo! chief Marissa Mayer, Tesla and SpaceX founder Elon Musk, Brian Chesky, chief executive of Airbnb, and Reed Hastings, CEO of Netflix. Zuckerberg said the tech sector understands the needs of an economic adapting to new information technology. "As leaders of an industry that has benefited from this economic shift, we believe that we have a responsibility to work together to ensure that all members of our society gain from the rewards of the modern knowledge economy," he wrote. He said the group will urge "comprehensive immigration reform that begins with effective border security, allows a path to citizenship and lets us attract the most talented and hardest-working people, no matter where they were born." -AFP

employees according to their needs from any country, it argued. Noting that small US companies are not able to find experienced professionals with the requisite skills from the market, NAIIP ar-

gued 50:50 ratio will upset visa processing of foreign nationals. Any increase in H-1B visa fee, NAIIP would hit small and medium businesses. "If the visa fees are increased the small businesses have to bear the burden and it will slow down their business as a whole," it said. NAIIP also sought 60 day settlement period for laid off H-1B workers before they have been asked to leave the country. The current laid off period is zero days, as a result of which H1b employees are forced to leave the country on the same day of layoff. "We need to retain qualified IT professionals. 60 days settlement period will help employers as well as employees to complete formalities with ease or find another employment," it said. -PTI

PRADEEP ROY-SINGH B.A. LL.B. M.B.A. J.D. Attorney-at-Law

Former Assistant StateÂ&#x2019;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

Immigration Post

India Post

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

New film boosts immigration fight WASHINGTON: The immigration overhaul pending before Congress is picking up more high-profile support as Apple co-founder Steve Jobs' widow, Laurene Powell Jobs, bankrolls a new documen-

convenient Truth,'' and 2010's ``Waiting for Superman,'' on the wretched state of the nation's public schools. His new effort, ``The Dream is Now,'' tells the stories of immigrant

struction laborer because he can't get a job in his chosen profession. Ola hopes to become a surgical oncologist, but fears deportation even as she pursues her studies. The 30-minute film was screened

Laurene Powell Jobs chairs Emerson Collective, a nonprofit that supports education reform and other efforts tary to promote the effort, directed by Academy Award-winner Davis Guggenheim. Guggenheim directed Al Gore's film on global warming, ``An In-

youths here illegally who are eager to succeed in America but can't because they lack legal status. Jose is trained as a mechanical engineer, but working as a con-

at the Capitol for members of the House and Senate and it will be shown on college campuses and elsewhere in coming weeks. ``My hope is that people will

watch this film, it'll open their minds about what's really at stake in immigration reform,'' Guggenheim said in an interview with The Associated Press. ``You see firsthand what happens if we don't fix this broken system we have.'' Laurene Powell Jobs chairs Emerson Collective, a nonprofit that supports education reform and other efforts. Through her work in education she encountered youths here illegally who couldn't advance because of their status, and became interested in their stories, Guggenheim said. The youths in the film would benefit from legislation called the DREAM Act because it would allow citizenship to people brought here in their youths who fulfill certain requirements. Congress has tried but

failed to pass that measure but it's expected to be incorporated in a comprehensive immigration over-

Laurene Powell Jobs

haul bill by bipartisan Senate negotiators. -AP

American marries Mexican on river border NUEVO LAREDO, Mexico: A US citizen married her Mexican fiancee on a raft on the river border between their two countries, a unique ceremony designed to meet US immigration requirements. Stephanie Guerra, 26, and Ruben Alfonso Fierro, 27, defied the swirling currents of the Rio Grande and boarded a Zodiac raft that took them from the Mexican border town of Nuevo Laredo to the United States. Guerra is a US citizen, but Fierro is not. The couple have four young children, all US citizens. Fierro had been living for years in the United States but had not le-

gally immigrated. When he temporarily left the country, he was not allowed to re-

turn. The fastest way for the family to reunite was to tie the knot in

Huge immigration fraud ends in 5-year prison term NEW YORK: A lawyer was sentenced to five years in prison for engineering a mammoth fraud that enabled tens of thousands of people who entered the country illegally to gain citizenship. Attorney Earl Seth David, 49, of Manhattan was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald. David was extradited to the United States from Canada last year to face charges that he processed thousands of false immigration applications, earning millions of dollars in fees. David fled to Canada in 2006 and his law firm closed in 2009. He pleaded guilty last April to one count

of conspiracy to commit immigration fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. Prosecutors said David charged up to $30,000 per client to provide phony employment sponsorships and fabricated documents, including fake pay stubs, fake tax returns and fake ``experience letters'' purporting to demonstrate that sponsorships were real. Before he was sentenced, Martin sobbed as he apologized for his crimes. ``I'm ashamed, embarrassed and humiliated for breaking the law,'' he told the judge. She rejected his claim that he united families as

``blatant nonsense.'' U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara said David was the 12th defendant to be punished for a fraud that stretched from 1996 until early 2009. The government said it has identified at least 25,000 immigration applications submitted by David's firm and the vast majority of them were believed to contain false, fraudulent and fictitious information. It said David and his employees recruited dozens of people to help him by claiming they were sponsoring immigrants. As part of his sentence, he was ordered to forfeit $2.5 million. -AP

the United States. Guerra and Fierro cleverly took advantage of an 1848 treaty that allows free navigation for both sides along the Rio Grande, the river that forms nearly half of the 3,200 kilometer (2,000 mile) long US border with Mexico. Judge Hector Liendo from Laredo, Texas climbed aboard the couple's raft - in the river but technically in US territory - and held the ceremony that legally bound the couple until death does them apart. US law enforcement personnel stood nearby just to make sure

that of the people aboard the raft, which included Mexican relatives, did not set foot on US soil. While binational couples have married on bridges between the two countries for years, this is the first time that a marriage takes place on the Rio Grande river, according to the Big River Foundation, the US-based environmentalist group that sponsored the event. Fierro told reporters that the marriage will now make it easier for him to legally immigrate to the United States and return to his family.-AFP

AAPI urges not to ignore doctors in reform Cont'd from Page 44

AAPI urged US lawmakers to include physicians graduating from accredited US residency programs for green cards, given that as part of comprehensive immigration reform, a proposal may include international students graduating with degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) being fasttracked for Green Cards. "This proposal enables highlyskilled workers to remain in the US after receiving their higher education in America. Physicians graduating from accredited US residency programs should also receive similar treatment. Such a proposal would en-

able more physicians to be eligible for Green Cards and address the ongoing physician shortage," AAPI argued. These physicians would still be required to meet all US licensing standards before they could officially practice medicine. Among other things, AAPI also urged Congressmen to make permanent the J-1 visa waiver program; which attracts a large number of Indian-American doctors to serve in the rural areas of the country. Besides Congressman Crowley, among others who addressed the AAPI members were Congressmen Phil Gingrey, Jim McDermott, Frank Pallone, Phil Roe, and Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren. -PTI

Immigration Post

April 26, 2013

India Post

www.indiapost.com

The many problems surrounding the H-1B visa cap CYRUS D. MEHTA

veryone was rushing to file H-1B visa petitions between the April 1-5 window as there was a sinking feeling that the USCIS would receive more than the 65,000 cases allocated under the H-1B annual cap as well as more than the 20,000 cases under the additional Master's cap.

self evident that the cap hinders the ability of a company to hire skilled and talented workers in order to grow and compete in the global economy. The hiring of an H-1B worker does not displace a US worker. In fact, research shows that they result in more jobs for US workers.

If a company now wishes to hire a badly needed engineer from abroad, it will need to wait till October 1, 2013 before this person can come on board, and that too if this worker was lucky enough to be selected under the lottery Just as we were emerging from the H-1B filing madness - as we were all underwater working desperately hard for our clients - USCIS announces on April 5 itself that both the caps have been reached. This means that all H-1B cases properly filed between April 1-5, 2013 will be subject to a randomized lottery. It also means that those not selected, will need to wait to file next April 2014. If we do not get more H-1B visa numbers from Congress, people rejected this year could stand a chance of being rejected next year in 2014 too based on the randomized lottery. Those who will be selected, and the chances of being selected depend on how many more H-1B cases USCIS received over 85,000, can only start their H-1B employment on October 1, 2013. If a company now wishes to hire a badly needed engineer from abroad, it will need to wait till October 1, 2013 before this person can come on board, and that too if this worker was lucky enough to be selected under the lottery. It is

It is also ironic that the USCIS should announce the H-1B cap on the same day that the job report for March 2013 was announced. The US added a dismal 88,000 jobs in March, but US employers clearly filed more than 85,000 H1B cases for jobs that they can only fill on October 1, 2013. It will be interesting to further understand why there has been this demand for H-1Bs when the job report was so anemic. The H-1B cap was reached much quicker this year, and the last time the cap was reached so quickly was in 2008. It's clear that the economy has revived notwithstanding the March job report, and business immigration lawyers, who rush to file H-1B cases on behalf of US employers, tend to see upticks and downturns in the economy faster than others! Some more analysis is needed on the latest job report. Imposing Cap Still, it makes absolutely no sense to impose an H-1B cap. Let the market do the job of determin-

ing how many H-1Bs can enter the US based on the fluctuating demands of employers. At one point, when the H-1B cap prior to 2003 was 195,000 for a few years, this quota was never filled. Therefore, H-1B quotas do not necessarily dictate how many H-1B visa cases will be filed. It is market conditions that determine H-1B usage. Based on the lessons from the H-1B cap, it does not make sense to impose arbitrary caps at all, especially with respect to other temporary visas. In the negotiations involving comprehensive immigration reform regarding low skilled workers, business and labor trumpeted that a deal had been reached on future flows. When times are good, according to the deal, employers would be able to benefit from 200,000 workers; and when times are not so good they would only be able to get 20,000 workers. While a flexible cap based on market conditions is still better than a fix cap, such as the H-1B cap, there is no way of knowing whether businesses may need more than 20,000 low skilled workers even when there is an economic downturn. And when times are good, there is no way of knowing whether 200,000 visas would be sufficient. The H-1B cap also arbitrarily forces employers to make hiring decisions for positions that will only materialize after 6 months. In certain industries, such as IT consulting, employers may not yet have an assignment for a worker who may be placed at a third party client site. Yet, an H-1B petition filed without being able to specify with laser precision the work site will be less likely to be approved by the USCIS. Indeed, in recent times, an em-

Thousands rally across US pressing for citizenship to immigrants Cont'd from Page 44

The march in San Francisco comes after a Sacramento rally where about 50 people gathered around noon outside the federal courthouse downtown. Speakers at the labor-organized event said they want Congress to approve immigration policy that creates an easy-to-navigate system that won't break apart families. One of the attendees, Rosa Torres, said she came to the U.S. illegally from Mexico in 1998 after her mother, who lives in Sacramento, had a heart attack.

Torres said she is the only one in her family who was born outside the U.S. and she fears that one day she could be separated from her 9-year-old daughter. ``I came over here to be with my mother and then as soon as I got here I started working,'' said Torres, 39, who does maintenance work to support her daughter as well as six nieces and nephews. ``I don't come to live by the government, like welfare. I never asked any help for that.'' Elsewhere in the state, several hundred people demonstrated peacefully outside the Los Ange-

les office of U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein. Activists also gathered for a prayer breakfast at a church in San Jose and rallied outside Feinstein's San Diego office. ``It's important to keep pushing for something that is more comprehensive, broad,'' said Jose Mondragon, 24, who entered the U.S. illegally as an 11-year-old and recently applied for a two-year permit that would grant him permission to work. The San Diego City Council voted unanimously to support broad immigration measures that includes paths to citizenship. -AP

ployer who designated its headquarters as the worksite, when the intention was to place the H-1B worker at client sites, have been criminally prosecuted for not stating its true intentions and for also not paying the workers the H-1B wage until they were assigned to a client. While the allegations made in the indictment against this employer are particularly egregious, many bona fide IT consulting employers are unable to precisely locate the work assignment six months ahead of time even though they do have a legitimate roster of clients, ongoing work and have every intention to pay the H-1B worker the required wage as soon as he or she arrives in the US on October 1, 2013. Such employers who genuinely indicate in their H-1B petitions that they may not have a current assignment but do have the ability to offer a position on October 1, 2013, should not be penalized by wholesale denying their H-1B petitions or to be perceived as en-

unpredictable fluctuations in the business cycle itself, the pejorative reference to them as "job shop" is, in reality, the engine of technological ingenuity on which progress in the global information age largely depends. Such a business model is also consistent with free trade, which the US promotes vehemently to other countries, but seems to restrict when it applies to service industries located in countries such as India that desire to do business in the US through their skilled personnel. Negotiations in the Senate regarding high skilled workers in a comprehensive immigration reform proposal suggest that a future H1B visa for employers who rely on H-1B workers may be more restrictive or they be subject to a much higher fee. If there is so much opprobrium against the use of H-1B visas by offshore IT consulting companies, why not create a whole new visa category that will be linked to free trade in services. This visa, which

H-1B caps are generally bad for US employers and for the economy, and this one on April 5, 2013 has been particularly nasty. They do not allow employers to function and compete in a more natural market for skilled workers gaging in fraudulent conduct. After all, the concept of a fixed worksite has become quite antiquated in the second decade of the 21st century as H-1B workers in certain industries can be mobile, work out of their laptops from remote locations, and visit the client location whenever necessary. It is hoped that future H-1B rules give way to the more contemporary notion of a workspace rather than a physical worksite. Finally, IT consulting employers who hire professional workers from India unfortunately seem to be getting more of a rap for indiscriminately using up the H-1B visa. However, it is this very business model has provided reliability to companies in the United States and throughout the industrialized world to obtain top-drawer talent quickly with flexibility and at affordable prices that benefit end consumers and promote diversity of product development. This is what the oft-criticized "job shop" readily provides. By making possible a source of expertise that can be modified and redirected in response to changing demand, uncertain budgets, shifting corporate priorities and

we can call a Service Visa, can be somewhat more restrictive than the H-1B visa by requiring a lesser duration of time and perhaps require that the worker be employed at the foreign entity before such a visa can be used. It also need not allow "dual intent" and require the worker to have ties with the home country. If such a worker is to be sponsored for a green card, he or she may have to first switch to the H-1B visa. In conclusion, H-1B caps are generally bad for US employers and for the economy, and this one on April 5, 2013 has been particularly nasty. They do not allow employers to function and compete in a more natural market for skilled workers. The H-1B cap has not been raised for a long time, and it is time that we creatively reform the system rather than forcing employers to madly rush to file H-1B petitions in early April each year, only to find their fate being determined by a randomized lottery with respect to workers they so badly need to remain competitive. * Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com

Â&#x201E;

Realty Tidbits

Yamuna Expressway Authority hikes land rates GREATER NOIDA: To appease farmers, the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has hiked the compensation rate for land acquisition from

Real Estate 48

India Post

www.indiapost.com

April 26,2013

CAG slams HUDA for project in forest land GURGAON: The latest Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) report has pulled up the Haryana Urban Development Authority (HUDA) for acquiring prohibited land falling under Aravali hills near Gurgaon, Faridabad area, resulting in Rs 252.82 crore unfruitful expenditure. The federal auditor observed that HUDA, after spending huge amounts of money, was not able to develop the residential sectors even after 20 years of acquisition of land.

Negotiate best sale price on your 1st home Rs 1,093 per sqm to Rs 1,186 per sqm. The new rate, however, will be applicable only for land acquired on or after April 1. Officials said the hike has been implemented following farmers' demands and increase in inflation rate. The compensation rates for the remaining five districts under the Yamuna Expressway Development Authority have also been hiked by about 8.5%. Land under YEIDA falls in six districts - Gautam Budh Nagar, Aligarh, Bulandshahr, Mathura, Agra and Hathras - and compensation against land acquired in these districts has been hiked to Rs 1,186 per sqm, Rs 733 per sqm, Rs 1,186 per sqm, Rs 693 per sqm, Rs 745 per sqm and Rs 693 per sqm, respectively. The decision to implement the hike was approved by the Authority. "The compensation offered to farmers in Yamuna Expressway area is the best amongst what is provided by other states. The annuity policy of UP government that provides rehabilitation benefits is also quite lucrative," an official said.

Â&#x201E; Gurgaon builders told to hand over admin to RWAs GURGAON: The department of town and country planning (DTCP) has directed as many as 35 builders in Gurgaon to hand over the maintenance of apartments and condominiums to their residents' welfare associations (RWAs). Till recently, the builders in Gurgaon were reluctant in handing over the control of maintenance and other functions to the RWAs, but now they are left with no other option but to exit. In many apartments and condominiums, the RWAs have dragged the builders to consumer forums and courts seeking complete control of maintenance work. The latest directives of the DTCP will further boost the morale of the RWAs in demanding their rights.

DANA DRATCH

elling your first home in a buyers' market? You can get the best possible price if you know how to negotiate. From truly understanding the market to figuring out what moves prospective buyers, it pays to be part detective, part psychologist and completely realistic. Here are six tips to help you negotiate the best price when you sell your first home. Understand your market Your home is worth the most someone is willing to pay for it. Or the least.

Association of Realtors. Nearby sale prices are called comparables, or comps for short. Comparable homes are roughly the same age and square footage with the same number of bedrooms. Using an agent? Choose carefully listen "The first time I sold a property, the first broker I spoke with gave me a ridiculously inflated selling price," says Steven Cohen, president of The Negotiation Skills Company. "Consequently, I didn't talk to any other broker."

Don't automatically select the agent who promises the highest listing price, Cohen advises. Instead, reach out to professionals who have a reason to know who's good bankers and lawyers - for referrals The best indicators of the price your home could fetch are actual sale prices (not listing prices) of similar homes in the immediate area during the past few months, says Ron Phipps, principal broker with Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I., and past president of the National

Later, a more realistic broker sold the home for two-thirds of that initial asking price, he recalls. He learned a lesson: The best agents are worth the money, but choose carefully. Don't automatically select the agent who promises the highest

listing price, Cohen advises. Instead, reach out to professionals who have a reason to know who's

"The Complete Idiot's Guide to Selling Your Home." "It's not a new concept, but some people

good - bankers and lawyers - for referrals. Talk to at least three agents, and be wary if one proposes an asking price that's "superlow or superhigh," he says. Once you find someone you trust, listen to the advice you get. Your agent will explain how to maximize home value - and that's why you hired that person, Cohen says. Employ subtle staging "Don't overlook staging," says Katie Severance, co-author of

think they don't need it. But staging can get you thousands more." Staging needn't be obvious or expensive, she says. Ask your agent what you could do to make your home look bigger and better. There are tricks (think new, spa-quality white towels and accessories) to give that bubble gum-pink bathroom a more neutral appeal without having to renovate. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 49

Lords Hospitality Group eyes 35 properties by 2015 MUMBAI: Mid-market hospitality group Lords Inn Hotels & Developers, the Indian subsidiary of US-based Lords Inn Hotels & Developers LLC, is eyeing up to 35 properties across the country by 2015, a top official said. "We are looking at 25 operational properties and another 10 signed deals by 2015. As we already have a strong presence in Gujarat, we are targeting to open one hotel in all cities of the state besides towns in Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh among others," Lords Inn Hotels & Developers Director

Romesh Koul told PTI here. The company, which falls mainly in the 2-4 star segment, is planning to cater to the growing tier II, III and IV cities, he said. "India has huge opportunity in the mid-market hotel segment. We being a mid market hotel are planning to fill this gap by focusing on expanding in tier II, III and IV cities."

At present, the company is operating 16 properties with 970 rooms. Another five properties with 350 rooms are under various stages of development, of which two with 80 rooms will be operational in two months, he said. "Besides, we have signed deals for another seven properties," he added. Of the 16 properties, only two

The company employs 2,500 people, who are mainly from its own hotel management institute, Lords Institute of Management in Surat, Gujarat

are joint ventures and the rest are franchise managed. The company has four brands under it in 2-4 star category, namely Lords Plaza (four star), Lords Resort (four star), Lords Inn (three star) and Lords Eco (two star) with the average room tariff ranging from Rs 3,000 per night to Rs 1,800. The company employs 2,500 people, who are mainly from its own hotel management institute, Lords Institute of Management in Surat, Gujarat. "With our expansion, we will employ another 700 people in next one year," Koul said. -PTI

Real Estate Post

April 26,2013

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Lease to buy a house: What's the catch? STEVE MCLINDEN

Dear Real Estate Adviser, I've been leasing a house and will soon have an option to own at the end of the lease, provided I come up with a down payment of $10,000. I'm a little nervous about this. Is there a catch to this lease-to-buy program? I don't want to miss an opportunity to own, especially since I have lessthan-perfect credit. -Andrea N. Dear Andrea, here are a lot of folks out there right now with chal lenged credit, still reeling from the downturn, who could execute a lease option as a legitimate pathway to ownership. In fact, there's been a surge in demand for

caveats to these lease-to-buy arrangements. Typically, a lease option gives an aspiring buyer the option to buy a home at a set price following expiration of a lease term of a year or more. In most cases, the would-be buyer pays an additional premium above the monthly rental rate during that lease period. These extra payments are to be applied to a down payment. Renters may be asked to pay an additional "option-money" fee. However, in your case, that sizable down payment you're faced with seems to indicate that your landlord/seller is personally offering short-term financing as part of the arrangement. That would ac-

short-term financing deal is generally expected to borrow the balance of his or her purchase with a

is offering full-owner financing and is acting as a private lender to allow you to purchase the home

cies will offer you market statistics as a courtesy, in hopes of getting your business. Or you

bank or private lender. If that's the case, talk with a lender posthaste about possible financing. Or, it could be that the landlord

over a long-term payment plan. You may have to settle on some sort of hybrid arrangement; parties are free to structure these deals any way they want. With this much money on the line, it might be a good idea to have an accountant, agent, real estate attorney or similarly qualified professional take a look at your contract, especially since you are apparently not clear on some of its implications. I'd also suggest you talk with the owner to make sure your mutual expectations are lining up and that you have not violated the accord with late payments or anything else. Values are generally heading north, so this deal might work in your favor because you may be locked into a sale price that's lower than what the market currently bears. It would also behoove you to study the state of your local market to see if home values and home sales are on the upswing. Many real estate agen-

can find that data online yourself by examining community data on your local chamber of commerce's website or reading real estate reports in your local daily newspaper or business journal. A courteous call or email to a residential real estate appraiser might net you such market data or links or referrals to it. Here's one big caveat to consider: If you do withdraw from the deal, know that you will likely lose any premiums you paid toward a down payment and any option money. In many lease-option deals, unfortunately, hopeful buyers find they're still unable to buy the house for essentially the same reasons they couldn't conventionally buy one in the first place: poor credit, insufficient income or both. But here's hoping you're now on improved financial footing and that you can complete the deal if it's really in your best interest.Courtesy Bankrate.com

With this much money on the line, it might be a good idea to have an accountant, agent, real estate attorney or similarly qualified professional take a look at your contract lease-option arrangements in recent years because of tight credit markets. Many sellers offer this program as an alternative in their for-sale listings. But there are some

count for the large end-of-leaseterm balloon payment -- or "down payment" -- of $10,000 that's being asked of you. After that payment comes due, the buyer in a

Mumbai redevelopment should be pushed: Experts MUMBAI: With the availability of land in Mumbai drying up, real estate experts believe redevelopment is the only way forward for the megapolis. "Availability of land is scarce. Due to sky-rocketing land prices and limited expansion possibilities, redevelopment has become the need of the hour," says Nikhil Bhatia, head of real estate consultant CB Richards Ellis' Western Region. There are "hundreds of old buildings" in the city which are beyond repair, he said. Big developers are now pursuing redevelopment projects to leverage the incentives offered by state. For redevelopment, the government offers floor space index of 2 (for MHADA- cessed buildings, it is 3). DB Realty, Tata Housing, Unitech, Godrej Properties, Kalpataru group, Omkar Realtors, Hiranandanis, Oberoi Realty, Hubtown, Kumar Urban Development, Vakratunda group, HDIL and S Raheja are some of the leading players who have entered the redevelopment space now. "Such incentives provide nec-

essary boost....It becomes a viable proposition for builders as they do not have to spend on purchasing the land, which forms a major portion of cost. It becomes a win-win for devel-

Redevelopment also helps in boosting property value, creates jobs and eliminates urban decay and improves infrastructure." He further says that other benefits are reduced urban sprawl, improved opers as well as the buyers," PWC Associate Director Bhairav Dalal said. Jones Lang LaSalle India Chairman and Country Head Anuj Puri argues that "if used correctly, redevelopment can be an economic

engine". "Redevelopment also helps in boosting property value, creates jobs and eliminates urban decay and improves infrastructure." He further says that other benefits are reduced urban sprawl, improved economic competitiveness of a city's centre, and better opportunities for safety and surveillance. But regulatory bottlenecks are acting as dampeners, says head of Kumar Urban Development, Lalitkumar Jain. "The main challenge is timely regulatory approvals and clearances. The government needs to look at realty reforms and relax FSI norms. Also, there is a need to bring some clarity in the policies. If this is done, we can flood the market with housing stock," Jain says. Funding is also a major hurdle. "The government has not yet allowed foreign investment in redevelopment. So developers have to depend on domestic routes which are costly, thanks to the ever-increasing interest rates," Dalal said. "If these issues are tackled, redevelopment will be a success". -PTI

Real Estate Post

50 India Post

April 26,2013

www.indiapost.com

Hinduja group to rope in Gulf investors DUBAI: Hinduja Group, a UKbased USD 25 billion diversified conglomerate led by NRI Hinduja brothers, plans to rope in Gulf investors including UAE's sovereign wealth funds as partners for power and other infrastructure projects in India. "We would like the major Gulf investors, including the sovereign wealth funds to invest with us in large projects where return on investment will be very high," Gopichand P Hinduja, Co-Chairman of Hinduja Group of Companies, has said. "India is a major growth story and we want to participate in this in a much bigger way. As much as USD one trillion spending in infrastructure development has been planned in India over the next few years," Hinduja told Gulf News. The newspaper reported that Hinduja Group is in talks with UAE's sovereign wealth funds for partnership as it plans to sell stake in its power and cable TV network businesses, while it also plans to double its USD 100 million investment in the UAE. "We have a plan to develop 10,000 megawatts of power in India for which we are ready to forge partnership with the Gulfs sovereign wealth funds, especially those of the UAE," the report quoted Hinduja as saying. G P Hinduja, the eldest of the four Hinduja brothers at the helm of affairs of the diversified global

group with significant presence in India as well, held talks with at least three sovereign wealth funds for possible equity partnership during his recent visit to the UAE. The group is setting up its first greenfield project, Hinduja National Power Plant a 1,040 MW

thermal power plant in Andhra Pradesh at a cost of about USD 1.65 billion. Hinduja further said that the group is ready to partly divest equity stake in its power and cable TV business to UAE's sovereign wealth funds, but did not give further details. The group is also present in automotive sector in a big way in India through Ashok Leyland, which makes commercial vehicles. The Hinduja group's annual turnover is more than USD 25 billion while it has an enterprise value

Haryana told to stop non-forest activities in 3 Aravalli villages

he National Green Tribunal has directed Haryana to prohibit all non-forest activities in the villages of Kot and Mangar in Faridabad and Roz-kaGujjar in Gurgaon. The direction came after it was contended that tourism, commercial and other non-forest activities were going on in the three villages. A bench headed by tribunal chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar said premises sealed by a committee constituted by the Deputy Commissioner, Gurgaon, as a preventive measure, are "prohibited to carry on such activities and their premises would remain sealed till the next date of hearing". "The persons who are carrying on non-forest activities in violation of the provisions of the Indian Forest Act and also violating the provisions of the Environment Protection Act or Air Act should be pro-

hibited from carrying on such activity in future," the tribunal said. It directed the committee to "make a general survey of the area in the three villages, namely Kot, Mangar and Roz-ka-Gujjar and report to the tribunal the details of the persons and the commercial/ non-forestry activity which is being carried on by them in the forest area. The report shall clearly state as to the nature and the number of structures that have been raised by each of those ventures." "This committee shall also report to the tribunal if those ventures are using borewell and generator sets. If the answer is in the affirmative, the extent of its adverse effect on the ground water as well as in the air pollution in the area in question and whether they are causing pollution or not should also be stated," the tribunal said.

of over USD 35 billion. In businesses spread across 35 countries, it has more than 72,000 employees and the group is present in sectors including oil and gas, power, automotive, trading, infrastructure, banking and financial services, real estate, healthcare, media and IT. In 1984, the group acquired Gulf Oil, followed by takeover of then struggling Indian automotive manufacturer Ashok Leyland in 1987. Ashok Leyland is now a USD 2 billion company with an annual capacity of 1,50,000 units. Indian and the UAE governments are currently working on a Bilateral Investment Protection Agreement (BIPA) which will encourage greater investment from the UAE into India, Hinduja said.-PTI

Negotiate best sale price on your 1st home Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 48

Staging advice probably will center on clearing out and getting rid of pieces that make rooms appear crowded, Severance says. Delete the drama A potential buyer makes a lowball offer for your home. You respond with a cold refusal, followed by indignant silence. Or By giving a buyer options, maybe a few heated "You do a better job of words. That's not the way to making the negotiation negotiate effectively. reasonable," says Phipps. This is a business transaction. That means you "It becomes more of a meet a bid -- any bid -conversation than an with a counteroffer. "Never ignore a arms-length negotiation." lowball offer," Severance says. It's just an invitation to haggle, she says. "Al- costs and last-minute moving exways make a counteroffer. Never penses will cost you, and build end the negotiation." She adds: that into the price. Then present "Sometimes the buyer will raise the the buyer with a set of options. offer significantly if the seller Something along the lines of, "We can afford to let the house go for counters." A volley of offers and counter- $250,000 if we close in 60 to 75 offers can go back and forth five days, as planned. But if you need it in 30 days, the price will be or six times, she says. $257,000." Give buyers a choice Want to negotiate without By giving a buyer options, "You do a better job of making the negotiation reasonable," says Phipps. "It becomes more of a conversation than an arms-length negotiation." Put a human face on it "Remember, this is not a comare the other three markets. pany merger or acquisition; it's the "This is a positive sign for the sale of a family home to another Indian economy reflecting busi- family," Phipps says. "You'll get a ness expansion along with con- better outcome if you negotiate solidation. This also indicates that with that in mind." the downward trajectory should One example of this style of be plateauing in the near future," negotiation: "Send a personal letter with your counteroffer," Phipps recommends. Say something along the lines of, "This is a great house, we've really enjoyed it, and here's why we've really enjoyed it." Understand your buyers, and remember that money is not the only motivator as you negotiate the best price on your first home. One seller discovered that a potential buyer was a golf fanatic. So instead of discounting the price of the home, he sweetened the deal by offering to pay the buyer's initiation fee to the country club. CBRE South Asia Chairman and The result: sold. The seller benManaging Director Anshuman efited because the initiation fee Magazine said. was less than the price reduction However, he said the Indian he was contemplating. The buyer office market would continue to loved the idea of buying both a take cues from the existing eco- home and membership to the club. nomic sentiment globally and "Figure out what the motivator within the country. "It is too early is," says Phipps. "And remember in the year to take a position on that price isn't the only thing that the market performance". -PTI matters."-Courtesy Bankrate.com

Office space absorption up by 17% in Jan-Mar quarter NEW DELHI: Office space absorption rose by 17 per cent to 6.6 million sq ft in the seven major cities of the country during JanuaryMarch quarter, according to global property consultant CBRE. "The prime office space segment across key cities in India are witnessing an improvement in sentiment from last year. Approximately 6.6 million sq ft of space absorbed in Q1, 2013 as compared to 5.6 million in Q1 2012," CBRE said in a statement. According to CBRE's latest report, India Office Market View Q1 2013, the transaction activity during Q1, 2013 was dominated by Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai and NCR (National Capital Region), representing about 90 per cent of the total volume during the quarter. Hyderabad, Pune and Kolkata

seeming to negotiate? Give buyers several options, and let them decide, Phipps says. For example, say the buyer wants to move in next month, while you desire a leisurely move in a few months. Figure how much your time, inconvenience, storage

Classifieds

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

ASSISTANT FINANCE MANAGER IS HIGHLY WANTED REQUIREMENTS: GOOD TYPING AND COMPUTER SKILLS MUST BE ACCURATE AND HAVE A FOCUS OF IMPROVING THE COMPANY. JOB EXPERIENCE DOESNT MATTER AS ANY JOB EXPERIENCE CAN APPLY .

SALARY IS $3300 MONTHLY. Email me at karenjeffersupply@gmail.com if interested

India Post 51

Horoscope

52 India Post

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

Your Weekly Future by Pandit Parashar

APRIL 26 TH - MAY 2 ND 2013 (March 21 to April 20)

ombination of five planets in your sign is helpful in many ways. Issues involving a child will get resolved to your satisfaction. You will forcefully implement your plans and see instant success. Just stay away from a female who's been asking too many questions and too quick. Do not let these changes make you nervous.

(July 23 to August 22)

oncentration of five planets in house of luck will provide the much needed touch. Confidence level will be at peak as most of the attempts you make will again hit the bulls eye. Stocks and other speculation will be profitable. It will be a good week for self employed people. You will be helped by a person who will be around six feet tall.

(April 21 to May 20)

hat ever happens this week will not be less than a miracle in your life. Some one's blessings will come to your rescue. You may visit a holy place with family and get some special prayers done. People in business will continue to gain edge over opponents and at the same time increase their profit margin. Do not speed while driving.

(August 23 to September 22)

hings may slow down all of sudden and you may have to fresh hurdles in your efforts. It's a temporary phase just hang in there and stick to original plan. Spouse will need to buy some expensive gifts for others. You will be studying some useful material and get ready for quick exam or test. An old friend will call after long interval.

(May 21 to June 20)

ransiting Planets in eleventh will bring a huge opportunity to make money. If you are quick and ready to accept the challenge associated, you could make it big in future. Its good to be busy but have food at proper intervals. You will be slowly getting ready for an important trip. It will be better to dispose off money making stocks.

(September 23 to October 22)

ith raj yoga karka planet Saturn in your sign aspect by Venus and Mercury from seventh could bring some favorable changes in life. Planets are in order to make it happen big time. Project and dreams you had been working on for past several years can become a reality. Mind will be settled as you will finally find the right home.

(June 21 to July 22)

ive planets in house of career will bring some drastic and positive changes within next few weeks. Life may turn around completely. It should be nothing less than a jackpot. Your talents will be recognized by society and even government. Some of you may finally lay your hands on a very nice piece of property with greenery around.

(October 23 to November 22)

ou may have to face hurdles and strong opponents this week. If you stick to your plans, ultimately you will succeed. Avoid any speculation and go for the sure thing only. If were suffering from illness in the past, chances are you will find the permanent cure this week. Good week for people seeking for another job. (November 23 to December 22)

lanets in fifth will provide with necessary boost. You will meet your goals well before deadline and will be assigned another important task. Luck is definitely on your side so take a chance and launch the new venture you had been working on in spare time. Do not hesitate to try your hands at lottery this week. (December 22 to January 19)

ou will purchase some expensive item for the house. It will be better to go for the deal other side offers this week. You may invite few friends at your place. There is no harm in listening to spouse before you decide an important issue your self. People seeking a change in career will be offered a better deal. (January 20 to February 18)

ou may successfully negotiate with a government agency or boss and remove a big road block. New deal will save you tons of money in long term. Bachelors looking for an ideal soul mate will receive a proposal from some one in close circle. Some of you will travel out of state to attend an important meeting with another colleague. (February 19 to March 20)

ou will continue to feel lucky in all money matters. Loan application will be approved quickly. You may take family out to a nice place and enjoy your favorite food. It will be better to consult an expert before you initiate any legal procedure. You may also give final shape to a short family vacation for coming summer.

Pandit Parashar, CEO & COO Astro Scan USA is also available for individual consultations. He can be reached at: parashar@parashar.com

510-886-4370 website: www.parashar.com

Philosophy

April 26, 2013

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Page Sponsored by Sahanis SWAMI KRISHNANANDA

e are always likely to think the Atman is within us. How can it be everywhere? When it is within us, naturally it is very clear. It is within you, and within that person, and within this object, and so on. So there are many 'withins'. Naturally we are led, due to a sensory interpretation of this centre, to regard it as manifold, or a multitude of intuitively grasped subjects, or Purushas. This is absolutely far from the truth. The Atman, which is the centre of our being, is also the centre of other beings, organic or inorganic. Inasmuch as they are uniformly spread, they can only be one ultimately, and yet we have to comprehend this uniformity of centre or Atman without bringing the idea of circumference or externality. The moment we think of a centre, we cannot help thinking of a radius or a circumference, but this is a centre without a radius and circumference. This is an inwardness without an outwardness. When we say it is the Atman within, well, it is all right, wonderful; but it is not such a kind of within as to isolate itself from the without. That is the meaning of saying the centre is everywhere with circumference nowhere. If we can comprehend such a

he Vishishtadvaita or qualified non-dualism philosophy of Sri Ramanujacharya is a refined form of Advaita philosophy and differs from the one proposed by Adi Shankaracharya. Shankracharya's Advaita philosophy says that Brahmin is the ultimate truth, the world is an illusion, and there is no difference between the. Brahman and individual self. Whereas Ramanuja's Vishishtadvaita philosophy says that Brahmin is ultimate and He has numerous attributes. It is incorrect to say that Brahmin is Nirguna (without attributes). Brahmin, the ultimate truth, is different from individual self. At the same time Brahmin is in every entity of this universe, which is His creation. Brahmin is Paramantma (supreme soul) and individual self is Jeevatma (minute soul). They could be compared to an ocean and drop of water simultaneously. The ultimate goal of jeevatama is to reach paramantma, just like the destination of every rain drop is the ocean through complete surrender. Once jeevatma reaches paramatma it will continue to serve paramatma in Paramapadama, the abode of Lord Narayana or Mahapurusha. He stated God is one, but with

situation where there can be an inwardness without a corresponding outwardness, that would be the Atman, but we cannot think such a thing. That is why we are unable to meditate. Meditation has become a problem because the mind is unable to grasp what it is that is before it. It has become a hard job stretching and scratching, but nowhere ending. It begins nowhere and ends

truth is, we will also know what law is. When we know what Satya is, we will automatically know what Dharma is. We need not be taught about it. We will not put a question about what Dharma, what law, what righteousness is. First of all know the centre; find your Being, and when you find your Being, you have found the Being of others also. Our problem in meditation and

perception on our life - so deep and so hard to overcome that whatever be our effort at the recognition of truth, we give it a color of untruth. The character of an object is foisted on the universal subject, and that is why the mind hankers after pleasure in spite of trying to seek the centre in meditation. We have not been able to overcome our weaknesses yet because of the fact that the senses have not left us fully; we

Atma, centre of our being, is also centre of other beings The moment we think of a centre, we cannot help thinking of a radius or a circumference, but this is a centre without a radius and circumference. This is an inwardness without an outwardness Swami Krishnananda

nowhere. The spiritual effort is a psychological novelty in our life, and it is not something that we have been accustomed to or which we have been habituated to see with our eyes. By the effort of logical analysis, when we come to this conclusion of the true nature of the Being of all beings, we need not be told as to what righteousness is or what Dharma is. When we know what

in spiritual practice in general is that we cannot escape this old grandmother's habit of externalizing the centre and interpreting it in a sensory fashion. Though we may say that God is everywhere, for us He is a sense object only. However much we may think otherwise, it would be impossible to comprehend in any other manner. This is the influence of sensory

are still under their clutches. The readings that we make of life are only sensory readings, empirical appreciations which disturb our meditation and our effort at spiritual practice. Every day we have to humiliate ourselves and come to the simple conclusion that we have not yet reached even the boundary or the fringe of the recognition of what the truth is.

internal differences, represented as the souls and the material creation. God has qualities. He is ocean of Divine knowledge, bliss, compassion and other unlimited attributes. The world, comprised of the souls and lifeless inert matter, is a part of His being. He is referred to as 'nirgun', without any qualities, but what this indicates is that God is without the

a fraction of God, the soul will always remain in existence. The soul could be considered equal to God only with respect to the experience of Divine bliss. Ramanuja regards the attributes as real and permanent, but subject to the control of Brahman. The attributes are called Prakaras or modes. Lord Narayana is the Ruler and Lord of the universe. The Jiva

God. To refer to himself as God is a great sin. Maya is a power of God and dependently established in God. Mayic ignorance can delude a soul, but not God. Ramanuja gave special emphasis to selfless surrender to God, which he called 'prapatti'. He said to renounce all material attachments, remove one's prideful ego, and to en-

Ramanujacharya's Advaita says God has attributes

Sri Ramanujacharya

'mayic' qualities of sattva, rajas and tamas. The material creation arose from God, therefore it is not an illusion. Maya is a power of God and established in Him. A soul is an infinitesimal fraction of God, just as a spark is a part of a fire. It remains at one place at a time, whereas God is omnipresent. The soul is ignorant, but God is omniscient and omnipotent. Being

He is referred to as 'nirgun', without any qualities, but what this indicates is that God is without the 'mayic' qualities of sattva, rajas and tamas. The material creation arose from God, therefore it is not an illusion is His servant and worshipper. The Jiva should completely surrender himself to the Lord. The oneness of God is quite consistent with the existence of attributes, as the attributes or Shaktis depend upon God for their existence. The only means for a soul to be liberated from maya is selfless, whole-hearted devotion to God. The soul is an eternal servant of

trust one's everything to God. It is only through God's grace that a soul can attain ultimate Divine happiness. He said that God resides in the heart of every soul as a witness. He is the supreme Divine personality. He alone is the Creator and Lord of the universe. The 3030th birth anniversary of Sri Ramanujacharya will be observed on April 29

"The bad news is you're falling through the air, nothing to hang on to, no parachute. The good news is there's no ground." -Trungpa Rinpoche

Death is not extinguishing the light; it is only putting out the lamp because the dawn has come. -Rabindranath Tagore

It is not what you do, but what you stop doing that matters. -Nisargadatta Maharaj

If we have to eliminate the enemies that lurk in the innermost depths of the heart, we have to serve the world. -Mata Amritanandmayee

To me every hour of the day and night is an unspeakably perfect miracle -Walt Whitman

The two most important days in your life are the day you are bornâ&#x20AC;Ś and the day you find out why. -Mark Twain

Be still like a mountain, and flow like a great river -Lao Tse Tung

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

Edit Page

India Post

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

India and Pakistan: Tracing the nuclear trajectory PR CHARI

omparing countries to animals is an absorbing pastime for foreign policy analysts to discover their essential character. It is, therefore, no accident that the US has chosen the eagle to be its national symbol to emphasize its aggressive, risk-taking nature. The erstwhile Soviet Union, now Russia, identified itself with the bear, which hugs what it seizes securely to itself. During

the heyday of the Empire, the British lion - king of the forest - symbolized its power, which is intriguing since that feline is not indigenous to the British Isles. Nearer home, animal allegories have sought to capture the basic character of China and India. China conjures up conflicting images of a cuddly panda and firebreathing dragon, while India has been compared to the prickly porcupine or self-preening peacock or lumbering elephant. In this milieu, Michael Krepon's characterization of the India-Pakistan nuclear imbroglio in terms of the Aesopian hare-tortoise fable greatly overstates the case. Krepon argues that "India's nuclear weapons program is moving steadily forward without great exertion. The tortoise will win this race, and could quicken its pace. But the hare continues to run fast, because nuclear weapons are a sign of strength amidst growing domestic weaknesses and because it can't keep up with the growth of India's conventional military programs." This is not quite accurate, since it must also be appreciated that the strategic direction of India's military nuclear program has uncompromisingly been directed against China and, incidentally, against Pakistan. In other words, nuclear weapons are primarily required by India to establish strategic parity with China, and secondarily, to deter Pakistan's intransigence. Pakistan's nuclear program, however, is essentially intended to

counter its conventional forces inferiority vis-Ă -vis India. Currently, both countries hold around 80-100 nuclear weapons in their stockpiles. Despite routine pledges to maintain a minimal deterrent, the size of these stockpiles has doubled over the last decade. Both countries also possess cruise missiles, and are seeking nuclear armed submarines to ensure the survivability of their deterrent, provide second strike capability, a n d strengthen their deterrent postures. Pakistan, in fact, has imbued nuclear weapons with magical properties; they can deter India, and provide a sense of equality with its seventimes-larger neighbor that is fast becoming the third largest economic power in the world. Nuclear weapons also provide it with strategic reassurance, however illusory, in dealing with the US. Nothing, therefore, infuriates Pakistanis more than suggestions that the US should gain control over or 'takes out' Pakistan's nuclear arsenal in defined circumstances. Krepon also draws attention to the fact that Pakistan's nuclear policy, and, for that matter its defense, as well as its Kashmir and India policy are strictly controlled by the Pakistan Army, with civilians playing a peripheral role in the

decision-making apparatus. He then draws attention to the quantitative and qualitative nuclear arms race proceeding in South Asia, with obvious dangers for its strategic stability. Unfortunately, he has no plausible solutions to proffer about how India should configure the size and structure of its nuclear arsenal to meet the threat from China without inviting a reaction from Pakistan. In other words, how

could arms race stability be sought in a triangular nuclear scenario, which is unique in the international security system, and has no guiding precedent? Unstated here is his belief that India faces no nuclear danger from China; hence, it is excessive for India to conjure up a non-existent nuclear threat from China to justify its enlarging the range of its delivery capabilities, and making other attempts to sophisticate its nuclear arsenal. He then suggests that: "The safest route to reduce nuclear dangers on the subcontinent is through concerted, top-down efforts to improve relations between Pakistan and India. The surest way to do so is by greatly increasing cross-border trade. Leaders in both countries have endorsed this course of action, but underlings are moving slowly in the run-up to national elections." He might have added the need to liberalize the visa regime, and promoting reciprocal visits of special interest groups like students, media persons, legislators, professional groups and so on to create constituencies in both countries that would develop a mutual interest in friendly bilateral relations. These are tired old beliefs, and have often been made before. Regrettably, these eminently sensible suggestions have wrecked on the rocks of official obduracy and obstruction. Why? In truth, the political leadership and, in the background, the military and intelligence services in India and Pakistan have no interest in permitting such confidencebuilding measures to flourish and erode their institutionali z e d negativism. Unl e s s Krepon c a n find a better solution to these problems, his well-meaning ideas to insulate the nuclear entanglement between India and Pakistan from disaster are not going to succeed. Of course, the disaster is of primary consequence for the two South Asian adversaries, who need to be aware of and address the dangers to their own survival. The writer is Visiting Professor, IPCS

Early worries

arendra Modi may have peaked early in his aspiration for prime ministership but perhaps another chief minister, Nitish Kumar of Bihar, is worrying too early over the impact the Modi build up will have on his own prospects with the minorities, fearing denting of his secular image by association with Modi. His alliance with the NDA will break, it is feared, unless the BJP stops promoting Modi. Although Nitish Kumar has given the BJP till end of the year to make up its mind, if he had shown more patience his apprehensions could have been allayed by the likely dip in the BJP fortunes in the Karnataka elections early next month. Corruption and poor governance has made the BJP unpopular in the state and with the caste splits created by former chief minister Yeddyurappa, the coming election will be a minefield for the saffron party. Although the Congress is no less corrupt but having been out of power for sometime it is likely to win by default. That would generate some rethinking in the BJP and its good governance platform will take a big hit. This alone can take much out of Modi's sails, much more than the remonstrations of Nitish Kumar. Unless the BJP does well in the coming state elections its prospects in 2014 parliamentary election would suffer. Before the big fight for the Center in March/April 2014, five state assemblies of India will go to the polls. They are Karnataka (May 4), Madhya Pradesh (December 12), Delhi (December 17), Rajasthan (December 31) and Chattisgarh (January 4). After Karnataka, the other two states are equally shared by the BJP and the Congress. The poor Congress performance at the Center will have a big impact on the fortunes of its state units. If the Congress loses Delhi and Rajasthan, the BJP stock will go up. Since the BJP is also better placed in Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh, even a thin majority will work in its favor. But if the BJP loses any or more of these states, the prospects of Narendra Modi will also take a beating. So it is too early to bet on any candidate for prime ministership. Industry chambers have also started early to lobby for their choice of the next prime minister. By giving platforms to Narendra Modi and Rahul Gandhi, the corporate sector is trying to shape perceptions of a presidential contest. And since business houses control the media, their political candidates are promoted on these channels. The speeches of Modi and the Gandhi scion were telecast live. Industry observers find it shocking as corporate India is itself plagued by scams but is trying to shape India's political agenda by throwing money power to project who should lead India. This scenario is not valid outside Delhi and the aam admi may not be enthused by such projections. There are great prospects of none of the two national parties getting a majority and cobbling of a third front government is within the realms of possibility. This is the greatest fear of corporate India - having to deal with a Third Front government or even allies of the two major combines. Moreover, real issues around development like food, health, housing and poverty are rarely discussed at business forums. At the question answer sessions with these leaders, nobody asks them the relevant questions. While Rahul Gandhi paid high compliments to the industry, he should have been asked then why is the morale of the industry so low? Nobody asked Narendra Modi how will he put the apprehensions of India's vast and diverse minorities to rest and thereby provide a harmonious and peaceful environment for business! As in the US, Indian business is trying to control the political agenda. But this is bound to increase inequalities as the business will always look at its own interests and enhancing profits while deciding political agenda and policy. With the blurring of lines between politics and business, it is clear nobody is speaking for the aam admi. This will have disastrous consequences when the voters finally turn out.

April 26, 2013

www.indiapost.com

India Post 55

56 India Post

www.indiapost.com

April 26, 2013