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Manish Shah first Indian American federal judge Details on page 16

India castigated over intellectual property rights Details on page 6

Modi plays 'backward status' card

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

VOL 19, No. 1025

May 9, 2014

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Periodical Postage

SOCIAL MEDIA'S BIG ROLE IN INDIA POLL

WASHINGTON: The three American social media giants - Facebook, Twitter and Google - have emerged as a major player in the ongoing general elections in India, with political parties and candidates competing in breaking the news, spreading their message through these outlets in addition to those via the traditional media.

While the impact of these social media on the elections could be known only after May 16 when the results are declared or could be a matter of another academic research, all the three major players have seen substantial increase

in their India traffic and usage.

For instance Facebook has now 100 million users in India - its largest outside the US, while that of Twitter has more than doubled since January this year.

After the 7th round of polling, there were 49 million Indian elections-related conversations on Twitter - more than double the 20 million Indian elections-related conversations on Twitter for all of 2013.

Details on page 5

Ratan Tata receives UK's top civilian honor Details on page 12

Kaliani takes up key US Treasury Department post Details on page 12

Biswal: Indo-Pak trade can be a game-changer

Details on page 8 Details on page 6

Sonia asks Modi to read history again

Obama: Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs being targeted

Details on page 8

Details on page 6

Pak army wants dialogue with India, says book

CONTENTS Bollywood -------------------------- 28 Classifieds ------------------------- 52

Details on page 9

Community Post -------------- 16-26 Date Book -------------------------- 50 Edit Page --------------------------- 54

INDIA POST SURVEY

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

survey@indiapost.com

Horoscope ------------------------- 51

This week’s question

Immigration Post ------------- 44-46

Is the US being unfair to India on Intellectual property rights?

Life Style ----------------------- 48-49 Philosophy ------------------------- 53

Last week’s result

Will Priyanka entry make a difference to Congress fortunes?

YES 33%

NO 57%

Publisher’s Diary ------------------ 4

YES WE CAN: Ecstatic crowd at BJP Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi's (right) election campaign rally in Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh, on May 5. The last round of Indian elections will be held on May 12.

Real Estate -------------------- 38-39 TechBiz Post ------------------- 12-14 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 41-43

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Publisher’s Diary

A

US court last week, dismissed a lawsuit against India's Congress Party relating to the 1984 anti-Sikh violence, saying it did not sufficiently "touch and concern" the US court to exercise jurisdiction.

Indeed it is intriguing, the authority the American judiciary assumes in even entertaining cases against foreign entities and individuals in its law courts at the expense of the tax payers.

Having said that, who can deny the deep scars the anti-Sikh riots left on the Sikh community across the world? Those riots, as are any communal riots in India, are a blot not only on the secular and democratic fabric of India but also on humanity in general.

But still, how many in India really remember the '84 riots, as against say, the 2002 anti-Muslim riots in Gujarat? The Indian media that does not for one day forget the Gujarat riots and has persistently been hounding the Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi to apologize for it, rarely, if at all mentions the Sikh riots, let alone demand the Congress top brass to apologize for the scores of innocent lives that were lost at the time.

While my sentiments are clear on that front, what I fail to understand is the misplaced activism of some Sikh Americans who have been moving American courts in a bid to seek justice against India's Congress Party and its leaders like Sonia Gandhi or Kamal Nath.

Now, do they really expect Sonia Gandhi to appear before an American judge to face criminal charges or expect America to pass orders against the ruling political party in India? It would be irrational if they believe in that possibility.

If the whole idea is to make a point or an attempt to restrict these Indian politicians from traveling freely to the US, then I guess it serves the purpose.

And for those Indian Americans who think the case's dismissal is a victory, I would advise them not to celebrate; there's nothing sadder than members of a family washing their dirty linen in somebody else's home and asking the host to judge.

Romesh K Japra

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HIGHLIGHTS Bollywood: Sunny+9 'No Entry Mein Entry', sequel to the 2005 film will have 10 actresses - including heroines of the original & also Sunny Leone

Cover Story: Media in Elections The three American social media giants Facebook, Twitter and Google - are playing a major role in the Indian elections

Community: Federal judge Indian American Manish Shah has been confirmed unanimously by the US Senate as the first federal judge in Illinois

Final push Advocates for illegal immigrants are mounting a final push to persuade the House to pass immigration legislation

Life Style: Hindi singing Actress-turned-singer Priyanka Chopra says she would love to do Hindi playback singing in her own films.

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Key post Indian-American Jawahar Kaliani has been appointed to a key post in the US Department of Treasury.

Kufri Perched at a height of 2,510 m above the sea level, Kufri is known for its picturesque trekking and hiking trails.

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Social media's big role in Indian elections WASHINGTON: The three American social media giants Facebook, Twitter and Google have emerged as a major player in the ongoing general elections in India, with political parties and candidates competing in breaking the news, spreading their message through these outlets in addition to those via the traditional media.

While the impact of these social media on the elections could

be known only after May 16 when the results are declared or could be a matter of another academic research, all the three major players have seen substantial increase in their India traffic and usage.

For instance Facebook has now 100 million users in India - its largest outside the US, while that of Twitter has more than doubled since January this year.

After the 7th round of polling, there were 49 million Indian elections-related conversations on

million fans of Facebook.

Barack Obama is the only other politician to have more Facebook fans than Modi.

With political parties, leaders and candidates putting their advertisement on social media to reach out to their voters, all the three major players are reported to have made substantial addition to their revenue.

Though none of the companies are willing to discuss the advertisement revenue this election cycle, all of them have put in several months of tireless efforts and diverted substantial amount of their resources in the elections, many of them working thousands of miles away from India.

Facebook started working on the Indian elections towards the end of last year, says Katie Harbath, manager for Policy at Facebook, adding that the company started doing a series of things beginning March this year when the elections were announced.

This includes launch of election tracker so that people can see in real time. Candidates are now using Facebook and Twitter for breaking news.

"We are really seeing the entire country discuss the issues (related to elections), Harbarth told PTI in a recent interview.

"Facebook is really the key place of the conversation that is

Both officials from these social media outlets and experts are unable to predict this time the influence it would have on the election results. However, the Internet and Mobile Association of India estimates that a well-executed social media campaign can swing 3-4 per cent of votes Twitter - more than double the 20 million Indian elections-related conversations on Twitter for all of 2013.

In 2009, Shashi Tharoor was the only Indian politician to have a Twitter account and had 6,000 followers. Five years later there is hardly any major political leader who does not have an account on the micro-blogging site.

Tharoor is now the second most popular politician on Twitter with 2.16 million followers, after Narendra Modi, the BJP's prime ministerial candidate with 3.89 million followers.

Modi now also has nearly 14

happening," she said.

Adam Sharp, Head of Government and Nonprofits at Twitter, who has been involved in participating in elections in various countries of the world, said Twitter is a powerful way to return to retail politics. He conceded that elections have helped Twitter expand in India.

While the majority of the users of social media are concentrated in urban areas, the elections have also helped them expand their reach to the rural areas too.

Before the elections, the use of social media was generally restricted to the national political

parties, but as the general elections gained momentum, even regional parties joined the social media bandwagon.

In a recent interview, Raheel Khursheed, head of news, Politics and Government, Twitter India, said the electoral landscape of social media has changed forever in India.

"Twitter has now become an integral part of Indian elections," Khursheed told PTI. The sheer

with others in real time, and express their views," Adams said.

On the other hand, Google provided platforms to politicians to reach out to their supporters through hangouts.

Google also created a Google Elections Hub for elections-related news and information created to help 800 million Indian voters stay informed and updated about the elections. The site also includes features such as elections related

cluding Malaysia, Thailand, and now, India, have election pages that aid voters during election periods.

News Videos, Search Trends, G+ Hangout Series, and an interactive Pledge to Vote campaign.

"We want to make sure Indian voters have quick access to information to help them make informed decisions on election day.

This is part of our commitment to bring essential information to Indians as they head to the polls in this historic election," Rajan Anandan, VP, India Country Manager, told PTI in an email interview.

"Google created its first elections tools seven years ago when our engineers noticed a huge increase in search traffic around the election period in the United States," Samantha Smith from Google said.

"Today over 20 countries in-

Both officials from these social media outlets and experts are unable to predict this time the influence it would have on the election results. However, the Internet and Mobile Association of India estimates that a well-executed social media campaign can swing 34 per cent of votes.

In 2009, the popular vote of the BJP was 78 million and that of the Congress was 119 million. In 2014, the total number of Indians on these social media outlets are matching these figures. -PTI

Several American media outlets have described the 16th general elections as the first social media elections.

"Social media has become the new election battleground for India's nationwide parliamentary elections," a CNN news report said.

Tharoor is now the second most popular politician on Twitter with 2.16 million followers, after Narendra Modi, the BJP's prime ministerial candidate with 3.89 million followers size is a major challenge for them, concedes Harbarth. "It is just exciting to see, how much social media is being used in the election," she said.

In addition to the volume and size, Twitter officials said the ninephased elections are another major challenge.

"Twitter gives you a front row seat to the Lok Sabha #Election2014 in India and is the #1 place to go to stay informed about the latest elections developments."

"This election is turning out to be the country's first Twitter election - candidates, journalists and citizens have been using the Twitter platform extensively to discover elections content, converse

'Bhagat Singh's name not mentioned in FIR' LAHORE: Bhagat Singh's name was not mentioned in the FIR for the murder of a British police officer here in 1928, the Lahore police have found, in a major boost to prove the legendary freedom fighter's innocence in the case 83 years after his execution.

Petitioner Imtiaz Rashid Qureshi, chairman of the Bhagat Singh Memorial Foundation, had filed a petition seeking an attested copy of the First Information Report (FIR) registered against Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru for allegedly killing then SSP John P Saunders.

Bhagat Singh was awarded the death sentence for killing Saunders and he was subsequently hanged

at Shadman Chowk in Lahore in 1931, aged just 23.

Over eight decades after his

Bhagat Singh

hanging, the Lahore police searched through the record of the Anarkali police station on the

court's order and managed to find the FIR of the murder of Saunders.

Written in Urdu the FIR was registered with the Anarkali police station on December 17, 1928 at 4.30 pm against two 'unknown gunmen'.

A police official of Anarkali police was the complainant of the case.

The complainant-cum-eyewitness said the man he followed was "five feet 5 inch, had Hindu face, small moustache, having slim and strong body, wearing white trouser (pyjama) and grey shirt (kurta) and also wearing small black christi-like hat".

The case was registered under sections 302, 1201 and 109 of Indian Penal Code.-PTI

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Obama: Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs targets of violence WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama has acknowledged that even today a number of people from the South Asian origin - particularly those from Hindu, Muslim and Sikh communities - are becoming victims of hate crimes in America.

"Even today, South Asian Americans, especially those who are Muslim, Hindu and Sikh, are targets of suspicion and violence," Obama said in a presidential proclamation that recognized the contribution of A s i a n Americans in the sociopolitical and economic milieu of the country.

"Like America itself, the AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) community draws strength from the diversity of its many distinct cultures - each with vibrant histories and unique perspectives to bring to our national life," Obama said.

"Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders have helped build, defend and

strengthen our Nation - as farm workers and railroad laborers; as entrepreneurs and scientists; as artists, activists, and leaders of government.

They have gone beyond, embodying the soaring aspirations of the American spirit," Obama said.

Barack Obama

Noting that May month marks 145 years since the final spike was hammered into the transcontinental railroad, an achievement made possible by Chinese laborers, who did the majority of this backbreaking and dangerous work, Obama said this May, they will receive long-overdue recognition as they are inducted into the Labor Hall of Honor.

"Generations of Asian Ameri-

cans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders have helped make this country what it is today," he said.

"Yet they have also faced a long history of injustice - from the overthrow of the Kingdom of Hawaii and its devastating impact on the history, language and culture of Native Hawaiians; to opportunity-limiting laws like the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 and the Immigration Act of 1924; to the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II," he said.

Obama reiterated his determination to pass comprehensive immigration reform that would modernize the legal immigration system, create a pathway to earned citizenship for undocumented immigrants, hold employers accountable, and strengthen the border security.

He said with courage, grit, and an abiding belief in American ideals, Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders have challenged the Nation to be better.

"Nearly 5 years ago, I re-established the White House Initiative on AAPIs. The Initiative addresses disparities in health care, education, and economic opportunity by ensuring Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders receive equal access to government programs and services," Obama said. -PTI

India castigated over intellectual property rights SUDHIR VYAS

WASHINGTON DC: The U.S. cycle' review of India. We hope Chamber of Commerce's Global In- that this step will generate much tellectual Property Center (GIPC) needed dialogue for the U.S. and has identified countries that fall Indian governments to address short of providing adequate and the concerns identified in the Reeffective intellectual property port. We look forward to working rights (PR) and among the list of with the next Government of Incourtiers India features promi- dia to promote a robust IP climate. nently along with China and Bra"In addition, we are also enzil couraged that the Special 301 ReThe 2014 Special Report 301 port highlights other country-speissued by the U.S. Trade cific challenges, including Representative's (USTR) states Canada's onerous test for patent that "by identifying problem mar- utility and the substantial size and kets and seeking concrete solu- scope of IP infringement in China. tions to IP theft and market barri- The Report has designated couners the report signals the US tries appropriately to reflect those Administration's commitment to apprehensions. protect and promote IP.GIPC Executive Vice President Mark Elliot The US Chamber of Compitched for the USTR to merce is the world's largest continue to work with these countries to cre- business federation repreate comprehensive ac- senting the interests of more tion plans that foster robust IP environments than 3 million businesses for investment, innova- of all sizes, sectors tion, and international trade.

The U.S. Chamber's Special 301 The Chamber's Global IntellecSubmission to USTR provided an tual Property Center is working overall assessment of both glo- around the world to champion inbal systematic trends and major tellectual property (IP) rights as challenges in nine markets: Brazil, vital to creating jobs, saving lives, Canada, China, European Union advancing global economic India India, Mexico, Russia, growth, and generating breakUkraine, and South Africa, as out- through. lined in GIPC's International IP The US Chamber of Commerce Index, Charting the Course is the world's largest business fed"We are encouraged that eration representing the interests USTR recognizes the growing of more than 3 million businesses concerns with India's deteriorat- of all sizes, sectors, and regions, ing IP environment, and support as well as state and local chamthe decision to initiate an 'out-of- bers and industry associations.

Indo-Pak trade can be a game-changer: Biswal WASHINGTON: Normalization of trade relationship between India and Pakistan could be a game changer in regional connectivity and integration, Obama Administration's point person for South and Central Asia has said.

"Clearly one of the biggest obstacles to regional connectivity is India and Pakistan. Trade normalization between these two historic rivals could be a gamechanger," Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, Nisha Desai Biswal told lawmakers during a Congressional hearing.

"We have been encouraged by positive signs from Islamabad and New Delhi that things may be moving in the right direction.

We are hopeful that we will see

strong leadership from both governments following India's election," she said.

Responding to a question from Congresswoman, Tulsi Gabbard, Biswal said "I think that there is increasing recognition in both countries that for both economies to grow, for both countries to achieve their goals and aspirations, that they need to be able to trade with each other.

And we're hopeful that that recognition will result in some concrete actions in the coming weeks and months as the election in India concludes and a new government comes into place," she said.

In her testimony, Biswal said despite many challenges, including weak regional architecture, high poverty rates and limited re-

gional infrastructure, they can envision a future where Asian economies are connected through trade and transit from

placed a strategic bet on regional economic connectivity through our New Silk Road and Indo-Pacific economic corridor initia-

Nisha Desai Biswal

Central Asia to South Asia to Southeast Asia and beyond.

"The administration has

tives. We know that peace and stability are much more likely to be sustained when the countries

of the region are tied together in trade and when their economies and their people are invested in each other," she said.

"On the eastern front of South Asia, we see real opportunity to connect South and Southeast Asia in light of the historic transition undergoing in Burma. And the improvement of relations between India and Bangladesh and the growing ties between India and its ASEAN counterparts allow for more efficient, integrated and open markets across the region," Biswal said.

Biswal on Indo-US ties said, the relationship has "continued to mature, deepen and grow over successive administrations in both countries.� -PTI

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Modi plays 'backward status' card to counter Priyanka AHMEDABAD: In a sharp retort to Priyanka Gandhi's barb of indulging in "low-level" politics, Narendra Modi invoked his 'backward class' status to further mount attack on the Congress' star campaigner.

"As I belong to a socially back-

tweeted targeting Priyanka.

"This 'neech rajneeti' will wipe tears of thousands of people and free India of 60 years of mis-governance and vote bank politics," he said.

"The height of 'neech rajneeti' has power to make Mother India

Narendra Modi

ward caste, they consider my politics to be of a low level (neech rajneeti)," Modi said in a series of tweets.

"Some people (Gandhis) cannot see that it is due to renunciation, sacrifice and hard work of people of backward class that the country has reached to the present position," Modi further

a prosperous and powerful nation," Modi said.

The BJP strongman had earlier taken on the Gandhis at their home turf Amethi, the constituency of Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi, in the last lap of electioneering.

He had termed Priyanka Gandhi as "arrogant" for asking who

Indian-origin scientist researching new Robotics LONDON: An Indian-origin Synthetic Biology. scientist in the UK has bagged a Until now, no robotics scien1.07 million pounds funding grant tist has been able to create ultrato work on a pioneering technol- flexible tactile skin. Either the senogy of creating an ultra-flexible sor has been too big or the electactile skin for robotics and pros- tronics not sufficiently flexible. thetics.

However, Dahiya believes he Dr Ravinder Dahiya has got the is on the cusp of a breakthrough grant from Britain's Engineering and that he has found a way of and Physical Sciences Research incorporating electronics and Council (EPSRC) to sensors on bendable work on the technolsilicon-based surogy that could enfaces that will be 50 able a robot not only micrometres thick to carry a cup of tea thinner than the aluto an elderly person minum foil we use but can also sense every day. whether it is too hot He will be working to handle. in collaboration with Dahiya, who Professor Duncan joined the University Gregory, Chair in Inof Glasgow last year organic Materials in Dr Ravinder Dahiya as a senior lecturer in the School of Chemelectronic and nanoscale engineer- istry, on the creation of silicon ing, is one of the leading academ- based nanostructures such as ics from 10 UK universities to have nanowires which are printed on been awarded a total of 13 million bendable substrates in a manner pounds to maintain the UK's re- that will eventually lead to flexsearch leadership in three areas. ible electronic or tactile skin with Advanced Materials, Robotic distributed sensors and electronand Autonomous Systems and ics.-PTI

Smriti Irani (actress-turned politician and BJP candidate from Amethi) was.

In a counter to the barbs that he practices 'politics of anger', Modi had accused her father and former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, her mother Sonia and brother Rahul for practicing the same.

Within hours, Priyanka hit out at Modi saying he had insulted his martyred father on Amethi's soil and accused the Gujarat chief minister of practicing 'neech rajneeti'.

"He has insulted my martyred father on Amethi's soil. The people of Amethi will never forgive him for this. My booth level workers will give reply to this low level politics.

There will be a reply from each and every booth of Amethi," Priyanka had said.

In an election rally in support of Smriti Irani, Modi accused Congress of practicing politics of "arrogance" and said Rajiv Gandhi, when he was Congress General Secretary, had once publicly "abused" and "humiliated" the then Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister T Anjaiah at airport.

Anjaiah was the chief minister between 1980 and 1982. -PTI

British police force 'racist, says lawyer LONDON: An Indian-origin trainee lawyer has taken on the City of London Police over the "institutional racism" which he feels exist within the system.

Nitin Shah had been previously charged with verbally abusing a female bar manager in London in 2011.

But the Crown Prosecution Service dropped the case when it was discovered that police constable Phil Firmin, an officer with the City of London police, had twice forged the signature of the alleged victim.

"As an Asian I have had to endure disgustingly poor service from this corrupt police force. The police service remains institutionally racist," Shah wrote in a letter to the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC).

Documents seen by 'The Sunday Times' allegedly reported a string of blunders by City of London police during an internal investigation into a subsequent complaint filed by Shah.-PTI

Sonia asks Modi to read history again MUZAFFARPUR (Bihar): Accusing BJP Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi of "lecturing" as if he was the "cleanest of them all", Congress President Sonia Gandhi advised him to read history again to know about the party's contribution in transforming the country since Independence from a poor state to a progressive nation.

"Narendra Modi aaj kaal lecture dete phir rahe hain ki ek wo hi dudh ke dhule hai (Narendra Modi is lecturing nowdays as if he is the cleanest them all)," Sonia Gandhi said, addressing an election meeting here, about 70 km from state capital Patna.

Making a scathing attack on Modi for his allegations that Congress did nothing for the country, she advised him to read history again to know the "truth."

"In its 67 years of rule since Independence, Congress made many sacrifices to uphold unity and integrity of the country and initiated many pioneering steps to take it on path of progress," she said.

Gandhi's rally saw senior RJD leader Raghubansh Prasad Singh

sharing the dais with her.

The event was significant since nowhere else RJD President Lalu Prasad or other senior party leaders were found on the dais alongside Sonia or Rahul Gandhi

Sonia Gandhi

in their rallies in the state be it at Aurangabad, Sasaram or Kisanganj.

Gandhi sought votes for Congress' candidate from Muzaffarpur, Akhilesh Prasad Singh and also for Raghubansh Prasad Singh who is fighting the polls from neighboring Vaishali. PTI

Group of artistes vouch for Modi as PM NEW DELHI: A group of artistes, including those associated with Bollywood, have come out in support of Narendra Modi for the Prime Ministership, saying he has proved his ability to run a government successfully.

Noted dancer Sonal Mansingh, singers Anoop Jalota and Richa Sharma addressed a press conference here to endorse Modi for the Prime Ministership.

They said noted Bollywood Director Madhur Bhandarkar also wanted his support to be conveyed by them although he could not join them.

When reached for his comment, Bhandarkar, the maker of hit movies like 'Corporate' and 'Fashion', told PTI over phone from Mumbai that he could not join them but he supports Modi.

"We believe that Narendra Modi has proved his ability to run a government successfully....we

wholeheartedly endorse candidature of Narendra Modi for Prime Ministership and we appeal all voters to support Modiji," said Mansingh while reading out a pledge on behalf of the group of artistes.

Jalota, who is famous mainly for bhajan songs, said "Modiji has decided to make Varanasi a culture capital of the country.

Varanasi should be culture capital."

In this context, he noted that music maestros like Pandit Ravi Shankar, Ustad Bismillah Khan and Pandit Channu Lal hail from this culturally rich city of Uttar Pradesh.

Jalota then referred to the difficult economic situation faced by Bismilla Khan during his last days and said a Bharat Ratna awardee should also be given Rs one cr so that he can maintain the pride of the award.-PTI

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Pak army wants dialogue with India, says book WASHINGTON: As part of its change in strategy, a major section of Pakistan's army wants to give dialogue with India a chance, but wants to retain all other options including sub-conventional warfare, according to a new book.

"As one major general put it, 'We should give talking to India a chance, but retail all options, including sub-conventional warfare, to deal with India'," said Aqil Shah, author of the latest book 'Democracy: Military Politics in Pakistan'.

Described by Harvard University, which has published the book released in the US over the weekend, as the first comprehensive, historical study of the behavior of Pakistan's military relative to India, Shah, however, does

not identify the major general who he interviewed.

In his book, Shah, a lecturer in the Department of Politics at the prestigious Princeton University, notes that the change in the stance of Pakistan Army favoring dialogue with India is a tactical stance so as to gain time and space to put its house in order.

"Giving the multiplicity of perceived threats Pakistan and its material weakness, many officers reluctantly admit that Islamabad's traditional Indian policy - namely, unconditional support of the Kashmiri right of self-determination in line with the UN resolutions - may not be yielding the desired dividend and needs to be carefully re-evaluated," he wrote.

'Pak pilgrims' visa cancelled for their security' NEW DELHI: India has said the cancellation of visa of 500 Pakistani pilgrims was done as a measure of abundant precaution to ensure their safety and welfare, within hours after its Deputy High Commissioner was summoned in Islamabad in this regard.

Reacting to the "last-minute cancellation" of the visit of the pilgrims from Pakistan to attend the annual Urs at Ajmer Sharif, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson said India is in the midst of general elections and a visit of such a large group of Zaireens would have required much more elaborate arrangements than what

back," he said.

Pakistan had summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner Gopal Baghlay to lodge a protest over denial of visas to 500 Pakistani pilgrims to visit the revered shrine of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti at Ajmer.

The spokesperson said "India has always cherished these ageold cultural and civilizational linkages that exist across our borders amongst all countries of our unique sub-continent, and will always nurture these links for the benefit of future generations".

"We are most certainly disappointed that this year pilgrims from Pakistan were unable to attend the Urs Pakistan had summoned at what is one of the holiest shrines of our Indian Deputy High Comregion. missioner Gopal Baghlay to "But this was a measure of abundant prelodge a protest over denial caution aimed at ensurof visas to 500 Pakistani ing safety and welfare of the pilgrims which, I pilgrims to visit the revered think, should always shrine of Hazrat Khwaja be our priority," he said.

Moinuddin Chishti at Ajmer Visits to religious shrines in Pakistan and are usually done for such events. India are governed under the Bi"Regrettably, it was not pos- lateral Protocol on Visits to the sible for Pakistani Zaireens to at- Religious Shrines, 1974. tend the annual Urs of Saint Pakistan conveyed its deep Khwaja Moinuddin Hasen Saheb disappointment and concern over Chisty at Ajmer Sharif (May 1-12) the denial of visas by the Indian this year. government, a statement released "It is true that this was a last- by the Pakistan Foreign Office in moment decision, all government Islamabad said. agencies, including our railway Urs is an annual festival held authorities, had made full arrange- at Ajmer Sharif shrine to comment to transport over 500 memorate the death anniversary Zaireens from Pakistan from Attari of the Sufi saint Moinuddin railway station to Ajmer and Chishti. -PTI

"Hence some advocate giving dialogue a chance and approaching all issues with an open mind.

Several officers see dialogue with India as an opportunity to engage in the management of regional

best way to proceed, there is a consensus that protecting the national interest on Kashmir will require negotiating from a position of strength that can be achieved only by putting

The book said that the dangerous presence of both lethal terrorist groups and atomic weapons on Pakistani territory has raised the catastrophic possibility that Pakistan could become the world's first failed nuclear armed-state conflicts to enhance Pakistani security without compromising the basic stance on Kashmir," wrote Shah, who among others interviewed four service chiefs and three heads of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) for the book.

"Despite disagreement on the

Pakistan's internal house in order," the author said.

According to the book, another senior Pakistani army officer said the military's capability to take "proxy wars to enemy territory and a likely fillip to already activated fissiparous tendencies,

nuclear deterrence and strong diplomatic efforts are needed to secure" Pakistan.

The book said that the dangerous presence of both lethal terrorist groups and atomic weapons on Pakistani territory has raised the catastrophic possibility that Pakistan could become the world's first failed nuclear armed-state, but the military continues to believe that the short-term costs of these policies are lower than their long-term benefits in achieving Pakistan's security against India.

Referring to the recent moves by the Nawaz Sharif government to improve relations with India, Shah notes that if the past is any guide, it seems unlikely that the government can succeed in actually brokering a meaningful peace with India without the blessing of the military. -PTI

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Maha Rudram - A feather in the cap of Grays Lake Temple GEETHA PATEL

CHICAGO: Hindu Mandir of Lake County constantly organizes religious events for human happiness, prosperity, harmony and peace. The temple makes all efforts to preserve our rituals and traditions and inculcate them in the younger generation.

With this objective in mind, the temple organized Maha Rudram program this year.

More than two thousand devotees of Lake and Cook Counties assembled at the Hindu Mandir of Lake County for three days, from

Maha Rudra Abhisheka

Congressman Robert Dold with devotees

Friday May 2 to Sunday May 4 to worship Lord Shiva and have his eternal blessings and fruitful results for the whole community and mankind. Devotees chanted the Rudra Mantra 1000 times (Maha Rudram).

The Yagna was performed in a perfect way by 121 Ritwiks led by Brahmasri Yagneswara Dikshitar with good intention of purifying oneself from within and realize the manifestation of Divinity and Dharma on the earth.

First day evening, a grand Devi Puja was performed with Lalita Sahasranam Archana by more than 200 women and about 500 devotees after the Yajaman Sankalpam.

Cont’d on page 11

German success for Indian driver Jehan Daruvala AMPFING (Germany): Indian racing driver Jehan Daruvala continued his impressive form with a win in the first round of the German National Karting Championships here.

The Sahara Force India Academy driver faced a 36-strong line-up featuring some of the best karters in Europe and the World Including the defending Champion and runner-up from 2013 - and came up on top to claim victory over the weekend.

Jehan claimed pole from the Netherlands' Martijn van Leeuwen by 0.076s in a dry qualifying session and, as rain started falling for the heats, the Indian racer's dominance in wet conditions shone through and he claimed both races with unassailable leads.

The first final was the only blot on Jehan's copybook for the weekend as he was unable to capitalize on his pole position and finished fourth; he was back on form, however, for final two as he claimed a last-lap victory by making his way from fourth at the start and relentlessly reeling in the leader to set up a last-gasp clincher.

This result is made even more impressive by Jehan having never driven on this track before and having just one day of practice sessions to catch up with his rivals - a feat complicated by the variable weather conditions which however didn't deter the young Indian driver.

With this win, Jehan leads the German National Championships and heads in good spirits to La Conca, Italy, where he will compete in the first round of the CIK European Championships. -PTI

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Maha Rudram - A feather in the cap of Grays Lake Temple Cont’d from page 10

This puja was performed with utmost reverence to take the blessing of Ma Durga for our Maha Rudram event. The Archana was very elaborative and well planned for about three hours.

Second day session started at 5:30 am with early morning sankalpam for all Homam spon-

by the Ritwiks. This program went on for more than 7-8 hours and filled the temple campus with spiritual vibrations and made everyone to feel the presence of God at that moment.

In the afternoon, Achidram, Aswamedham were accomplished very devotedly and eagerly. A lecture on Sandhyavandanam was very impressive and inspiring. In

Chanting of Rudra Name

sors. Shree Ganesh Pujan, and Kalasha sthapan for all the temple deities were followed by Mahanyasam, Ekadasa Rudram, Chamakam and Suktham chanting

the temple Shrine, Group Bhajans, Shiva Sankeertan were sung by Smt. Jayashree Venkatesh and Sri Udayalur Kalyanaraman respectively. Later, an enlightening

speech on Maha Rudram was given by Dharmatma Dr. Yegnasubramanian Iyer. In the evening, all the devotees were presented with a typical South Indian musical presentations such as Thiruppugazh Bhajans, Thevaram recitation.

At 5:30 pm Krama Archana and Ashtavandana Seva were performed with utmost religious zeal.

Robert Dold, Republican, 2014 Candidate for Congressional District 10 -visited our temple to observe this event and took the blessings of Lord Krishna. He was very much impressed by the purpose of this religious event.

Last day session started with Surya Namaskaram followed by Sankalpam and performance of various other Homam chanting by Ritwiks for 4 hours with all the ritualistic rites. Maha Purnahuti was performed by the temple priests Pt Anil Joshi and Pt Ganesh. During this event, Kerala Geetha Mandal group played Indian traditional drums which turned out to be the best attraction of the day.

Another spectacular performance was given by children wearing the masks of various deities which made the devotees to

see the manifestations of God in the event. The Kalasha Yatra was taken around the temple by121 Ritwiks who carried Kalashas on their heads along with beautifully dressed up women in traditional sarees who carried Aratis was amazingly witnessed by every soul on the temple ground.

Shiva Abhishekam, Brahmachari puja, Dampathi puja, Acharya puja and Alankaram

sink in their hearts.

All three days, devotees experienced a novel and real devotional vibrations of Maha Rudram and relished the mouthwatering typical South Indian Pala haram and Maha Prasadam. President Harsh Kumar thanked all the devotees for attending this event and temple priests the Rudram Committee members namely Prabhakar, Natesaiyer, Ishwar for

Devi Puja

were performed with all the sacred rituals. Maha Arati was followed by Ashirvadham for all devotees. In the afternoon, a grand majestic Shiva and Parvati Kalyanam was performed by the priests and devotes enjoyed this event without blinking their eyes and let every imprint of this event

working very hard for a year to put all the bits of this mega event together with all the zeal, support and their feelings of belongingness. He expressed gratitude to all the lady volunteers for their tireless efforts for a month to make this event a grand success.

Tech News Walmart spent $109 mn on anti-corruption drive WASHINGTON: US retail giant Walmart spent more than USD 109 million in fiscal 2014 to enhance its global anti-corruption compliance program and added personnel for the same in many countries, including India.

Between December 2011 and January 2014, the company also delivered anti-corruption training to more than 1,00,000 personnel from all levels around the world, including key senior executives and officers who interact directly or indirectly with government officials.

In its annual report for the financial year ended January 31, 2014, Walmart said compliance with the US Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and other anticorruption laws remained a key priority.-PTI

World Bank extends USD 12 billion to Pakistan ISLAMABAD: The World Bank has approved a hefty USD 12 billion funding facility, including USD 1 billion loan, to cash-strapped Pakistan to be disbursed in the next five years for supporting economic reforms in the country.

Pakistan would receive the USD 1 billion immediately for energy and revenue support during the current financial year, the rest of the USD 11 billion will be in the shape of project loans and budgetary support.-PTI

'flydubai' to start Delhi operations next month DUBAI: Budget airline 'flydubai' has announced it will begin flights to three Indian cities, including Delhi, from Dubai next month, doubling the number of its destinations in India, with further plans to connect smaller cities with the Gulf region.

"We want to go to smaller airports in India. We want to serve the small cities," 'flydubai' CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith told reporters here.

Speaking on the sidelines of Arabian Travel Market, which opened here, Ghaith said the budget carrier is offering more connectivity to smaller cities and in this process, it has doubled the number of cities in India to six and the weekly flights to 19 from the earlier nine.-PTI

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May 9, 2014

TVS Motor Company Chairman Venu Srinivasan at the launch of new StaR City+ in Chennai on May 5

Kaliani appointed to key US Treasury Department post WASHINGTON: An IndianAmerican has been appointed to a key post in the US Department of Treasury.

Jawahar Kaliani has been appointed as the Deputy Chief Information Officer for Application Services Delivery (ASD) at the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), Department of Treasury.

Kaliani will lead the development and implementation of complex applications to deliver secure business solutions that meet organizational priorities and support the agency's mission of ensuring the safety and soundness of national banks and federal savings associations, a statement said.

"Jawahar's experience has pre-

pared him exceptionally well to serve in this role," said OCC Chief Information Officer Edward Dorris.

"He is ideally suited to be part of the agency's senior information technology (IT) team to continue

that depend on us," Dorris said.

Kaliani joins the OCC from Amdocs Inc, where he served as vice president of Customer Operations Management and led the development, execution and deliv-

Kaliani will lead the development and implementation of complex applications to deliver secure business solutions that meet organizational priorities and support the agency's mission of ensuring the safety and soundness of banks. our efforts toward achieving best in class productivity, efficiency and quality for the OCC employees and supervised institutions

ery of large-scale services and business IT solutions supporting major telecommunications clients who managed more than USD 30

billion in annual billings.

He has 20 years of demonstrated experience delivering critical applications in a managed services environment, optimizing efficiency and performance to meet the goals of industry leaders.

During his career, Kaliani established, coached and mentored high-performing, cross-functional teams of more than 700 employees.

Kaliani holds an executive MBA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a Bachelor of Engineering in IT and Electronics from Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute (VJTI) in Mumbai and a Diploma of Engineering in IT and Electronics from BIT in Mumbai. -PTI

Ratan Tata receives UK's Indian-origin PayPal exec fired for offensive tweets top civilian honor NEW DELHI: Tata group ChairCommenting on the honor, man Emeritus Ratan Tata has be- Bevan said: "Ratan Tata's leadercome the first Indian since inde- ship, vision and integrity will rependence to receive the Knight main the gold standard for genGrand Cross of the Order of the erations of aspirational British and British Empire (GBE), one of the Indian business people." highest civilian honors of the UK. Tata's contribution to the deep Tata was presented the GBE by ties that exist between the UK and British High India has been Commissioner to invaluable, he India Sir James added.

Bevan on behalf Queen Elizaof Queen Elizabeth II had conbeth II. ferred on Tata "Mr Tata has the honorary been awarded an award of Knight honorary GBE, Commander of one of the highthe Order of est civilian honBritish Empire ors conferred by (KBE) in 2009. the UK, in recogTata is a nition of his sermember of the Ratan Tata vices to UK-InUK-India CEO dia relations, inForum and the ward investment to the UK and British Prime Minister's Business philanthropy," the British High Advisory Group. As Chairman of Commission said in a statement.

Tata Sons, he oversaw the Tata Tata is the only Indian national Group, one of the leading foreign to be awarded the GBE since India investors and employers in the became a republic in 1950, it added. UK. -PTI

NEW YORK: An Indian-origin executive of online payment processing firm PayPal has been fired for allegedly posting derogatory and offensive tweets, including a few targeting a senior company official.

Rakesh Agrawal was hired by the company about two months ago as the director of strategy.

The company said in a Twitter post that Agrawal is no longer with the company, which Rakesh has zero tolerance towards offensive language and behavior.

"Rakesh Agrawal is no longer with the company. Treat everyone with respect. No excuses. PayPal has zero tolerance," the company tweeted.

Agrawal sent a series of offensive and sometimes incoherent

Twitter messages while he was at a jazz festival in New Orleans.

Some of the tweets were directed at PayPal's vice president of communications Christina Smedley, with Agrawal calling her "useless middle manager" and using an expletive for her.

Another tweet, which was incoherent, read, "People who should be fire from paypal Don Christmas a pool a kick (sic)."

He went on to tweet that Agrawal he could make Foursquare a 50 billion dollar company.

"I can turn foursquare into a USD 50 bill OK n company let's chat," he tweeted.

After several incoherent and grammatically incorrect posts, Agrawal tweeted that he had quit the firm.-PTI

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India's biotech sector likely India's growth rate will pick up soon: Rajan to touch USD 7 bn NEW DELHI: India's biotechnology sector is likely to touch USD 7 billion mark by end of the current fiscal with an average growth rate of about 20 per cent, according to a study by Assocham.

The country's biotechnology sector is divided into five segments based on the products and services offered bio pharmaceuticals, bio services, bio agriculture, bio industry and bio informatics.

"India's biotechnology sector is benefiting from several advantages like cost effectiveness, research and development expertise and personal skills as the country is now globally recognized as an ideal location for manufacturing biotech products and for conducting high-level research programs in the field," Assocham Secretary General, D S Rawat said.

The biotechnology sector in India, comprising of about 400 companies, has grown three-fold in last five years to reach USD 4 billion mark in FY13, the study pointed out.

Bio-pharma is the largest sector contributing about 62 per cent of the total revenue followed by

bio services (18 per cent), bio agri (15), bio industry (4), while bio informatics is still at a nascent

D S Rawat

India is strong in informatics and chemistry but still needs personnel in medicinal chemistry, in vitro biology and efficacy related animal models, it said. stage contributing just about one per cent of the total revenue, the study said.

With revenue generation to the tune of Rs 12,600 crore, the biopharma sector comprises of vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics.

India has emerged as a leading destination for clinical trials, contract research and manufacturing activities owing to the growth in the bio services sector which accounts for revenue generation worth about Rs 3,800 crore.

However, dearth of trained manpower is a key challenge particularly in the area critical for success of discovery programs, noted the study.

India is strong in informatics and chemistry but still needs personnel in medicinal chemistry, in vitro biology and efficacy related animal models, it said.

"Both industry and the government need to take concrete steps to bolster R&D capabilities by providing on the job training and aggressively recruiting personnel to fill in the gaps," Rawat said.

The study further stressed on the need to strengthen and streamline the regulatory framework to meet global standards. PTI

New govt should respect Rajan's appointment: Chidambaram ASTANA/NEW DELHI: The new government should respect the appointment of Reserve Bank of India Governor Raghuram Rajan who was selected to head the central bank on the basis of his reputation, Indian Finance Minister P Chidambaram has said.

"The central bank governor was appointed based on his reputation... Every government must respect this appointment," he said in Astana.

His comments to Bloomberg on the sidelines of ADB's annual conference at Astana, Kazakhstan, come amid media speculation that BJP-led NDA, which is projected to perform better than the Congress-led UPA in the general elections, may not be keen to retain Rajan as RBI

Governor.

Rajan had last month dismissed the talks about his differences with BJP as "media invention", saying "I haven't had any discus-

P Chidambaram

sion with the new government. I think its all press invented difference. I think it should be seen as speculation rather than any actual differences".

His comments came against the backdrop of certain BJP leaders

questioning his policies to deal with the current economic woes.

During the 8-month stint, Rajan has raised key policy rate thrice by 0.25 per cent each.

In an interview to CNBC at Astana, Chidambaram said: "I have done more heavy lifting in the last 12 months than the RBI... I have done what needs to be done on the fiscal side, the central bank has done what needs to do on monetary side.

Now we have to address the supply side constraints".

Answering questions on growth, the Minister said Indian economy will pick up pace and will grow at 6 per cent in the current fiscal.

Chidambaram said "We have unblocked a very large number of projects which had stalled... When the projects are completed and begin production, you will see all that adds to the economy."

The economy is estimated to have grown at 4.9 per cent in the 2013-14 fiscal after touching a decade-low level of 4.5 per cent growth in 2012-13.-PTI

OXFORD: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Raghuram Rajan has expressed optimism on India's growth rate going beyond the 5 per cent mark soon.

"The economy has been growing at a flat rate of 5 per cent and hopefully we will see it picking up in the near future," he told PTI on the sidelines of a special talk at Oxford University.

Rajan also reiterated his view on the growth rate being inextricably linked with curbing inflation.

"I have always stressed that stimulating growth and controlling inflation are not opposed to each other. Inflation is what is standing in the way of India's growth," he added.

Rajan was addressing student members of the Oxford Union Society (OUS) on his way to Switzerland, where he has meetings planned with the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) on May 11 and 12.

He stressed that his comments to the students were off the record and would not address any political issues as things will be clear only on May 16, when the general election results are announced.

Raghuram Rajan

Rajan also expressed confidence that whichever government takes over, will lay a clear path to revive growth as he answered a series of questions on the state of the Indian economy from students.-PTI

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Next big opportunity lies in innovation: Datawind CHANDIGARH: The next big opportunity in technology lies in innovation and servicing the lowest strata of the society with customized products for their needs, Datawind CEO Suneet Singh Tuli said here.

Tuli, the man who created the cost-effective Aakash tablet, said, "This will be the key game changer for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) companies and entrepreneurs and bring a new revolution in this field. There is tremendous untapped potential at lower sections of the society which, ICT companies from the region can tap and reap huge profits."

Speaking at an interaction organized jointly by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Consulate General of Canada, Chandigarh, here, Tuli envisioned bridging the growing gap between the number of mobile Internet users and the number of cell phone users.

"Anything and everything around bringing this huge gap low is also an opportunity for all to

grab," he said, according to a CII release.

Of the estimated 50 lakh tablets sold in 2013, Datawind sold about

Suneet Singh Tuli

10 lakh units, the release said quoting Tuli.

He is confident that his company can make tablets at the lowest rate. "Our product, with the same specifications, is almost 40

per cent cheaper than the next cheapest model in the market," Tuli pointed out.

He said the company has sold more units in Mexico as compared to India but still India is the main market in terms of opportunity.

Rajani Alexandera, Consul General of Canada, Chandigarh, said, "We should look at the best practices followed in both India and Canada, and should take advantage of them."

The Canadian Consulate General in Chandigarh will showcase the exceptional contribution of Punjabi immigrants in Canada, Alexandera said adding that over the past century and more, Punjabis have moved and settled all over Canada, and now they are the largest group among people of Indian origin.

"There are many inspiring stories of professional and personal journeys by Punjabi Canadians, and in 2014 we will showcase five of these. The first in the series would be of Suneet Tuli," she said. -PTI

Intel hosting wearable tech challenge NEW DELHI: Betting on wearable technology like smart watches as the "next frontier", global chipmaker Intel is hosting the third round of its USD 5,000 'Make It Wearable' challenge in the Asia Pacific, including India.

Announced earlier this year

by CEO Brian Krzanich, the competition seeks ideas from individuals on how the wearable technology can be used to change people's lives.

It will see inventors from India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan showcase futuristic concepts and the winners will receive USD 5,000 prize and a travel package for two to the final gala event in San Francisco.

"We believe wearables are the next frontier in evolution of computing to become more personal and connected. The challenge complements the technology Intel is rolling out to make wearables possible and meaningful for people's everyday lives," Intel South Asia Director (Corporate Affairs Group) Ashutosh Chadha said.

"We are extremely pleased to see the response we have got from India and feel that this is testimony

to the growing wave of innovation emanating from the country," he said.

In the Visionary Track round, entrants are invited to submit a one-minute video along with a description of their idea. The con-

cepts will be reviewed and judged by an Intel panel in five waves on the basis of inventiveness and potential to positively impact the world, the company said, adding that they can submit up to 10 concepts.

The Development Track is the second component of the challenge, where submissions for in-

novative and feasible product ideas for devices, clothing and accessories that are attached or worn on the body can be submitted.

The idea should incorporate and be enhanced by computer or advanced electronics that are based on Intel technology and submissions need to include a two minute video on the product, the business case and core technology requirements.

"It's the small things that make big differences.

Intel's Make It Wearable is a new opportunity to challenge the creative minds of India, begging the question, what will you invent?," Chadha said.

Judges will look at ideas that augment technology usage through aesthetics, battery life, security or privacy and that adds to Intel's vision of innovative tech that is personal, connects and enriches people's lives. -PTI

'Rajan good economist, should continue' NEW DELHI: Senior BJP leader and former finance minister Yashwant Sinha has said Reserve Bank of India Governor Raghuram Rajan is a good economist and should continue in his position.

"If it is in my control, I will continue with him. He is a good economist. Till now he has proven himself as a good Governor and he should continue," he told Focus TV. Sinha's statement comes in the backdrop of speculation that the RBI Governor could be changed if the Narendra Modi-led NDA comes to power after the general elections. The ninephase election is under way and counting of votes is scheduled on May 16.

Rajan, a career economist, was appointed by the UPA government and assumed charge at the RBI on September 4, 2013.

He was earlier the Eric J. Gleacher Distinguished Service Professor of Finance at the University of Chicago's Booth School.

Between 2003 and 2006, Rajan was Chief Economist and Director of Research at the International Monetary Fund.

On noted economists Jagdish

Bhagwati and Arvind Panagariya showing interest in playing some role if a Modi-led government is formed, Sinha said, "Both are world-class economists and any kind of help from them will be welcomed."

Replying to a question on re-

Yashwant Sinha

ducing import duty on gold, he said: "The gold business, which is a source of employment for lakhs of people, has been ruined.

We need to change the system."

Asked who could be the finance minister in an NDA government if the coalition wins, Sinha said it will depend on the Prime Minister.

However, he said "it will be good if a person with knowledge of economics becomes finance minister." -PTI

New tech uses body heat to power cellphones LONDON: Scientists have devised new technology which generates electricity from body heat, allowing you to charge electronic devices on the go.

Professor Byung Jin Cho from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) in South Korea is leading the team working on a thermoelectric (TE) generator.

The small and flexible generator, made from glass and fabric, can be used to power up heart monitors, smart glasses and other wearable tech.

"Mobile phones consume high electrical energy compared to electrical sensors. Right now we are trying to make a sample that provides electricity for medical sensors," Cho said.

"After that, smartphones will be

the next application of the TE generator," Cho added.

The device uses the small but significant temperature difference between skin and air to create power.

So far only two types of TE generators have been developed, based either on organic or inorganic materials, 'The Daily Express' reported.

Cho said his technology, which minimizes thermal energy loss but maximizes power output, combines the best of both organic and inorganic tech.

"This is quite a revolutionary approach to design a generator. In so doing, we were able to significantly reduce the weight of our generator, which is an essential element for wearable electronics," Cho added. -PTI

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Desi News Bay area residents party with Bipasha VIDYA SETHURAMAN India Post News Service

SAN JOSE: Mumbai Samba featuring special guest Bollywood actress Bipasha Basu held May 3 at Hilton Doubletree, San Jose witnessed over 300 Bay area residents partying with the diva.

The event was organized by Bhavini Joshi and Amitabh Bhargava of "Instant Karma". It is Bay area's Premier Entertainment and Marketing company that provides awesome entertainment and related marketing services. Instant Karma always strives to bring in Superstars and we don't repeat too many artists, said Bhavini Joshi, CEO of the Instant Karma event company.

The evening commenced with a power-packed performance by kids from Bollynritya. Jyotsna Bendapudi of DanceDilse, a Bay Area dance company set the stage on fire with her performance for Bipasha hit number "Beedi Jalaile" from Omkara.

Details on page 26

COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA

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Bay Area residents remember Naranjibhai V. Patel Details on page 24

May 9, 2014

Manish Shah confirmed first Indian American Illinois federal judge India Post News Service

CHICAGO: Manish Shah, a brilliant second generation Indian American holding M.S. degree, has bagged the distinction of being the first federal Judge in Illinois, being confirmed unanimously by the US Senate recently.

Manish was originally nominated by President Barack Obama in September of last year, as part

of a flurry of Indian American judicial nominations that the President announced within a short span of time. The confirmation process proved longer than expected, requiring Obama to re-nominate Shah in January.

A native of West Hartford, Connecticut, Manish 41, graduated from Stanford University with honors and distinctions, and earned his law degree from the

Manish Shah

University of Chicago Law School.

He worked as a litigation associate in San Francisco for some time, and then came to Illinois to clerk for Judge James B. Zagel.

He joined the US Attorney's Office in Chicago in 2001, where he again distinguished himself with convictions against violent criminals, public corruption, and other illegal activities. He currently serves as chief of the Criminal division.

Earlier, he served as chief of criminal appeals from 2011 to 2012,

deputy chief of the Financial Crimes & Special Prosecutions Section from 2008 to 2011 and deputy chief of the General Crimes Section from 2007 to 2008. He has won numerous awards and recognitions for his work, the most notable being the FBI Director's Award for outstanding criminal investigation.

Illinois is the fifth most populous state in USA and Manish Shah's appointment was ratified by the Senate with 95-0 votes.

Bal Vihar holds 5 km Yoga fitness walk ASWHIN PATEL

ST LOUIS: The Bal Vihar Yoga The 5K Yoga Fitness Walk was and Health Fitness Awareness the third annual event and it has Walk/Run event was held at Mil- grown dramatically in success. "I lennium Park Creve Coeur, 2 can definitely see the positive imBarnes West Drive, Creve Coeur, MO on The Fitness Walk was Sunday, April 6 from 8 non-competitive and all am to 12 noon.

The 5K Walk/Run participants received a was preceded by yoga completion certificate by and meditation. The Fitness Walk was non- the President. competitive and all participants received a completion pact on our staff and community certificate by the President. Break- of living healthier lives and keepfast was served to over 70 parents ing up physical activity, whether and students who participated in it be running or walking.

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Omi Vaidya, Somani talk ‘off the beaten track' GEETA GOINDI

WASHINGTON, DC: The second annual intercollegiate South Asian Arts Festival (SAAF) broke new ground on May 3 by presenting an informative, inspiring, invigorating discussion on what it means to tread off the beaten path for many Indian-Americans and pursue careers in film, media and journalism.

The speakers were well known in their own right: actor Omi Vaidya who catapulted to fame for his performance as Chatur Ramalingam or 'The Silencer' in the 2009 Bollywood blockbuster, '3 Idiots' and Dr. Indira Somani, Assistant Professor in the Department of Media, Journalism and Film

at Howard University, an award-winning independent producer and director of documentaries.

Both speakers were refreshingly candid and struck a chord with the audience comprised mainly of undergraduate students at American University where the event was held on a picture-perfect Spring afternoon.

Vaidya, who graduated with honors from New York University film school, admitted, "I am doing something that is a risk, is different, is not a traditional field and that takes a lot of courage, not only for me, but for everybody that supports me as well"!

Fortunately for him, his family has always

been "very supportive", he said. "I don't think that I would have been able to achieve what I have achieved so far without their help". Vaidya's mother aspired to be a Bollywood actress, but could not pursue a career in acting due to family pressure. She has realized her dreams through her son who dotes on her!

Vaidya's father and brother are both doctors, a profesDr. Indira Somani

sion well favored by Indian-Americans.

"Family support was really critical", the actor underscored. "I'm doing it on my own now and it's not easy", he said. Encouragement from his family also meant he never had to deal with social pressure from the Indian community for choosing a career in acting. "That was there", he recalled. "But, I was oblivious to it. I thought, my family is fine with it. I was proud of what I was doing, and I still am. I have so many more relations now than before", he quipped.

For Somani, family support came much later, when she was in her mid twenties and working as a television news producer for CNBC and WJLA-TV, the ABC affiliate in Washington, DC. "In the initial years, I did

Encouragement from his family also meant he never had to deal with social pressure from the Indian community for choosing a career in acting. feel that I have to prove myself", she told the audience. "My mom tells me that my mad wasn't speaking to me for a long time when I pursued my Masters in Journalism. I don't remember much about our non-speaking days. But, I do know that I had to apply on my own, get financial aid on my own. I had absolutely no assistance from my parents".

Somani grew up in a small town in Springfield, Illinois. She always had a penchant for writing and began her career by covering the Indian Diaspora. "My first job in this industry was for $17,000 a year and I had student loans to repay", she recalled.

"It was the reality of what they had told us in Journalism School - to start out in a small market, make your mistakes in a small market and work your way up. By the time you get to a place like DC or New York, you don't want to be making mistakes in a market that size".

It is noteworthy that the driving forces behind the Festival were all undergraduate students at American University - Madhavi Reddi, Anuj Gupta, Brad Korten and Palak Bhatnagar.

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Bhoomi Pooja for Glenview Hanuman Temple Asian Media USA

GLENVIEW: It will be a dream come true for many devotees of Hanumanji in Glenview and surrounding suburbs of Chicagoland with Hanuman Mandir Spiritual and Community Center formally conducting a Bhumi Pooja for establishing a Hanuman Temple along with a facility for community and spiritual activities for people of all ages.

The event held on April 26 was attended by top officials of the Village of Glenview, President James Patterson, Dan Owens. and Congressman Robert Dold besides a large contingent Indian community leaders and devotees numbering 600 plus.

A team of fifty dedicated volunteers, comprising various committees like Decoration & Maintenance, Food Distribution, Reception & Registration, IT Support and others, very efficiently managed the event.

The Bhoomi Puja (the ground breaking) program was the culmination of a two year search for a suitable site on the part of a group of Indian Americans headed by Dr Chandra Khurana. Their efforts paid off when they found a 4.1acre plot at 3623 West Lake Avenue in Glenview and they decided to construct a 37,200 square-foot, two story building after an Okay from the Village trustees.

This project will include a Hanuman Mandir and a community center. This will serve the long standing need of the community to have a multi-facility public place to celebrate various cultural, spiritual and educational programs.

The Center will benefit members of all the communities and will offer a broad-based opportunity for social interaction.

Two dignitaries - Congressman Robart Dold and Glenview Village President Jim Patterson at the Bhoomi Puja program

Ground breaking ceremony

Bhoomi Puja Yagya

The Mandir with the project is expected to be completed in about a year. It would have two distinct areas, which are, performance of spiritual activities and organizing various cultural community programs.

The Center, now known as Hanuman Mandir of Greater Chicago, will have the carving of de-

ity idols done in India. The sculptors experienced in carving worldfamous Makrana marble in Rajasthan are actively working to complete these holy artistic ventures in a timely manner.

The auspicious ceremony started with the worshiping of cow. The arrival of a healthy, live

cow at 8 am at the temple site was a pleasant surprise for all those braving somewhat winter weather in the morning. The priest Shri Nagendra Rao from Sri Bala Ji Mandir in Aurora, performed the 'Gau Pooja' amidst the chanting of mantras and putting tilak on the

forehead of the cow.

The prayers and chanting continued at the 'Hawan Sthan (place of hawan' inside the existing old building structure) for two hours.

The Hawan fire was started by Dr Chandra Khurana in the company of many senior members of the Indian community. The Hawan Samagri was distributed among over 700 devotees to enable them to offer their 'ahutis' (offering to the holy fire) from their respective places.

The devotees dedicatedly sang the Bhajans highlighting the divinity of Hanuman Ji. The event announcements were ably handled by Satish Chander who kept the audience motivated to chant the holy words of 'Hanuman Ji Maharaj ki Jai'.

All the devotee families were offered a steel plate and a red holy scarf as a gift to mark the occasion. At the end of the ceremony everybody received fresh and dry fruit prasad and a packed food box.

The food boxes were donated by Viceroy of India and sweet ladoos were donated by Punjab Sweets.

Bal Vihar holds 5 km Yoga fitness walk Cont’d from page 16

Dignitaries with Chicago elites

Every year the event gets larger and more popular," said Dr Sudhir Brahmbhatt, President.

It takes a lot of effort and coordination to put one of these events together. Two Bal Vihar families Vani and Vamshi Gunturu Family and Anukriti Hittle Family played pivotal role in organizing and sponsoring this event.

Bal Vihar is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) corporation under the name of "Center for Indian Cultural Education - Bal Vihar of St. Louis".

Since its inception in 1992, it has

been serving the Metro St. Louis Southeast Asian / Indian community of about 10,000 families. The primary focus of this organization is to provide Indian cultural education for children of ages 5 through 16.

It has 250+ students and over 40 volunteer teachers and teaching assistants. The ultimate goal is "to throw the light of cultural knowledge on every child, to make every child an outstanding citizen and to spread the song of peace and harmony around the world", said Dr Sudhir Brahmbhatt

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Omi Vaidya, Somani talk ‘off the beaten track' Cont’d from page 18

It goes to their credit that they managed to juxtapose two interesting fields - film and journalism in a heady discussion which kept the audience engrossed.

Vaidya recounted, "When I was in film school, they didn't teach us that you're not going to get jobs or have to work free forever. That was really disturbing, a shock. A lot of my friends left film, became lawyers and doctors. They couldn't deal with it and maybe didn't have the support. I did have the support and I was versatile in my skills. You know me as an actor. But, I am a very seasoned editor", he told the audience.

In the initial stages of his career, Vaidya used his Indian connections to act in crossover films.

"You will never see any of those films. They were terrible", he said, with a refreshing candor. "But, I kept saying yes. I was open to anything. I just wanted to be there and do it. In some ways, I still am.

I am always willing. If there is something to explore that I haven't seen, let's give it a try. I think a lot of it is attitude. It's very easy to get discouraged. Sometimes, a break will come when you least expect it. Keep pushing, keep trying. You never know when opportunity knocks. It may not be the door you want to get in, but it

terior things like a job, a girlfriend, marriage. We should really be pursuing meaning because it lasts throughout your life".

Somani emphasized, "I think you really have to want to be in this whether it is journalism or film or any media arts. You have to really want it because it is tough to break into". Pointing out that there is more support for such fields now than 20 years ago, she referred to the efforts of the South Asian Journalists Association (SAJA) which serves as a networking and resource forum for journalists of South Asian origin all across the US. Somani reflected, "I look at the opportunities that came my way and that keeps me inspired and motivated". It is important, she said, "to always be grateful and thankful for the opportunities that do come your way".

During the course of the event, short clips were shown from Somani's documentary, 'Crossing Lines', and Vaidya's roles in '3 Idiots' and a documentary, 'Big in Bollywood', made by his friends which chronicles his fairy-tale success following the release of '3 Idiots'. 'Crossing Lines' is a biopic.

It is a personal account of Somani's ties to her father, who died in 2002, and through him to her relatives in India. About the

versity. The 30-minute documentary took about four years to complete and is now screened at film festivals around the country for discerning viewers.

On a lighter note, Omi told the audience how he bagged the role in '3 Idiots'. He was in India pitching a film he had written when someone suggested that he audition for the Aamir Khan starrer. "I went just for the experience, with

tor. I was just having fun. That is the philosophy behind how I have continued to work and look for new opportunities". The fact that he wasn't fluent in Hindi, coupled with a flair for humor, worked in his favor and he landed a role that was just tailor-made for him.

Vaidya recently starred in Washington-based filmmaker Manan Singh Katohora's short film, 'Public Relations', shot here

Vaidya asked us if we saw 'Public Relations' and was pleased when we replied in the affirmative. "The community is really responding to them", he noted. "These people (filmmakers like Manan Singh) know the whole community, so these messages can get out. no expectation", he recalled, and since "I had no expectation, my ability to perform was much better because I didn't care". Vaidya actually believed he would never get the role. "I went for failure", he said, evoking laughter from the listeners.

"That confidence was something that other people didn't have because they wanted it, they wanted to be in an Aamir Khan film with Rajkumar Hirani as the direc-

in the national capital region. We queried the actor about his involvement in the project. "Manan came up with this story where a CEO is homophobic about gays, only to be saved by people who are homosexual", he told us. "That changes his perspective and shows him that they are not to be feared. They are just normal people like everyone else", he said.

Vaidya added, "That was a really nice thing that Manan wanted

to show. He approached me and I was available during that time. I came here and we shot the film over one night", he said, in a restaurant, American Bistro, located in Owings Mill, MD, owned by Tejash Natali.

In a short span of six minutes, 'Public Relations' conveys a profound message! And it goes to the credit of actors like Vaidya who contribute to making this happen.

"I travel all around the country and I'm always open to doing small films", he said.

Vaidya asked us if we saw 'Public Relations' and was pleased when we replied in the affirmative.

"The community is really responding to them", he noted. "These people (filmmakers like Manan Singh) know the whole community, so these messages can get out. Maybe, more Indian people will be open to their son or daughter being gay (or lesbian) because they saw this film. It's a butterfly effect. We don't really know the effect of these things. But, just that we are putting an effort into (conveying) this message is enough. These sort of films, these sort of events have a far-reaching impact. I am connected to them; their successes are mine", he said.

Telugus celebrate Silicon Manabadi Festival SURI SWAMY

Omi Vaidya

could lead to that other door".

For Vaidya, "attitude is really important. That really gets you through life, not just your career", he told the young listeners. "There will be a lot of curve balls thrown at you at work and in your personal life - family members fall ill, relationships end. The way that you approach every single day will lead you", he said. "You could be a failure, but if your attitude is amazing, your life will be enjoyable. That's really more important than everything else. We always try to pursue happiness from ex-

storyline, she said, "For many of us who are born here in the US, our connection to India is through our parents for all intents and purposes. We have extended family there, but our first connection would be through our parents".

The film examines "what happens to that connection after one of them passes away", she said.

"How do you resolve the relationship you have with your extended family there". Somani co-produced the documentary with Leena Jayaswal, Professor of Film and Media Arts at American Uni-

CHICAGO: Silicon Andhra Manabadi Cultural Festival (MCF) was celebrated in a grand way at Balaji Temple Auditorium in Aurora, a south west suburb of Chicago, on Saturday, April 19 with more than 100 students from Manabadi schools from Aurora, Bloomington, Bolingbrook,

Telugu MCF Festival in Chicago

Schaumburg and West Dundee participating It was the first ever MCF event in Illinois and around 500 Telugu lovers came to attend the Shoba

Yatra. Jay Tummala and Mani Tellapragada anchored the program as the primary MCs while the Manabadi students from various schools handled the MC role for individual cultural activities.

The event kicked off with individual classes led by their teachers presenting their perfor-

& Sri Visweswara Rao Duvvuri & Smt & Sri Ramana Murthy Yadavalli. It was handed to the next generation as a passing of language gift. All the kids were blessed by Pandit with Veda Pravachanam.

Cultural programs were kicked off with "Maatelugutalliki

Children participation at MCF event

mance. This Shobha Yatra was much appreciated by all those present. Bhasha Jyothi came from West of the country and was carried to the stage by Smt

Mallepoodanda", followed by Manabadi geetham composed by Smt Vishala Avadhanam.

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Big support for Human Development Foundation Asian Media USA

CHICAGO: Human Development Foundation (HDF) Chicago Chapter hosted its 17 Annual Fundraising Dinner on Saturday, April 26 at Double Tree Hilton in Oakbrook, a south side Chicago suburb. This sold out event with over 400 attendees coming to support HDF's mission in fighting poverty through its Holistic Model of Development in Pakistan, proved to be a great success. HDF is presently providing vital services to over 800,000 beneficiaries.

During Social Hour, attendees mingled and browsed through a selection of unique vendors. A full silent auction table exhibited customized and unique gift certificates, exquisite jewelry and designer outfits.

The program commenced with Quranic recitation by Azhar Ghumra. The Chicago community was welcomed by Humaira Abbasi, HDF's Chicago Chapter Chair and Dr Sajjad Asghar, HDF, Board Member. The Chief Guest was Pakistan CG Faisal Niaz Tirmizi who was accompanied by his wife Mrs Haniya Tirmizi.

Among distinguished dignitaries were Dr Zeenat Anwar, Member of the HDF Board of Trustees from Michigan; Dr Atiya Khan, Chair Person of the Board, HDF-USA;

HD Foundation event organizers L-R Henna Raza; Saima Anwar; HDF Chicago Chapter Member; Arshia Hasnain: HDF Chicago Chapter Member; Israr Abbas: HDF Board Member; Jafer Hasnain: HDF Volunteer; Nozina Kidwai: HDF Chicago Chapter Member; Fakhia Rashid: HDF Executive Director

and Dr Tariq Khan, HDF Board of Directors from Maryland.

Dr Sajjad Asghar highlighted HDF's incredible milestones and achievements and provided updates on projects that were funded by the Chicago Community in 2013. With the support of Chicago Community, HDF is providing vital services to over 48,000 people in Rahim Yar Khan including education, health and economic de-

Dr Sajjad Asghar highlighted HDF's incredible milestones and achievements and provided updates on projects that were funded by the Chicago Community in 2013.

With the support of Chicago Community, HDF is providing vital services to over 48,000 people in Rahim Yar Khan

Mesmerizing Qawali at HDF event

velopment programs.

Other sponsored HDF projects include HDF-Sonia Shah Memorial School in Charsada, Enoo Bhatti School in Lahore, water hand pumps sponsored by Amera Rehman, Shuay Ummeed vocational and technical training project, Rahim Yar Girls School among many other projects.

Master of Ceremonies was Ash-har Quraishi, Emmy Awardwinning television journalist.

The keynote address was given

by Dr Tariq Banuri, Professor at

Telugus celebrate Silicon Manabadi Festival Cont’d from page 20

A section of the audience

University of Utah, who in his thought provoking speech touched upon human rights and poverty eradication in context of Pakistan. A brief overview of HDF's work was provided by Qasim Riaz, HDF Chicago Chapter member, and Zainab Khan, HDF-Development Manager.

Fakhia Rashid was given an Appreciation Award for her commendable service to HDF by Dr Atiya Khan, Chairperson of the Board-HDF-USA. The event concluded with a live performance by renowned group, "Zaman Zaki Taji Qawwal." The beautiful Sufi music captivated and mesmerized the audience.

HDF Holistic Model includes programs in 5 key areas: social mobilization, education and literacy, primary healthcare, economic development, and sustainable environment.

The audience appreciated the songs which were replayed towards the end of the program.

Manabadi students then presented skits such as "Mullupoye Katti Vache dham dham", "Bangaru Mamidipandla daanam", "Navvula Paathasala", "Aatma Viswaasam", "Vrutthvadhaanam" which touched on various social, moral learnings as well as exhibiting core Telugu cultural values.

Smt Sneha Vedula recognized and presented all the Manabadi teachers and volunteers with mementos for their dedication towards promoting Telugu language in Illinois.

The Illinois MCF coordinator Mandava Rao gave an overview of MCF and services rendered by Siliconandhra. Smt Sujatha Appalaneni spoke on Chicago

area schools development, future plans and her motivation to lead the first Manabadi in Greater Chicago area. Smt. Sucharita Addanki explained about balanandam.

Sarat Veta - Overseas Marketing Director spoke on importance of Telugu learning and developments in Siliconandhra.

ATA president Karunkar Madhavaram, TAGC President Srinivas Pedamallu and TTA President Jagadish Kanuru were present and praised Manabadi team for their work towards Telugu language development in the world.

The MCF volunteers were Sujatha Appalaneni, Malati Damaraju, Rama Bhagavatula, Jyothi Chintalapati, Kiran Mattey, Manjula Bhamidi, Jay Tummala, Mani Tellapragada, Srinivas Bhamidipati and Prasad Mocherla.

The volunteer group concluded the program with vote of thanks.

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Relevance of Shri Satyanaryana Puja in Kaliyuga PT ANIL JOSHI

S

hri Satya Narayana Katha is Lords. one of the most popular Lord Vishnu is popularly known pujas (ritualistic prayers) as Narayana, Laxmi Narayana, that is offered to Lord Vishnu by S u r y a almost all the Indian communities Narayana, Nara in the world. Satya Narayana puja Narayana and is performed from the time imme- D a r i d r a morial by all the enthusiastic devo- Narayana. In tees whether they belong to any this Katha Laxmi sects of Hinduism such as Narayana HimShaivism, Vaishnavism, Sikhism, self told Deva Jainism, Shakti Upsasakas or Rishi Narad Swami Narayana devotees. about the imThey all believe in the count- portance of less miracles of Satya Narayana Satya Narayan Katha puja and perform this puja Puja and Katha. for abundant beneficial results. It From this story has been observed that after the Narayana is performance of this puja with be- also known by a lief, faith, and devotion, devotees new name Satya are benefited by getting their prob- Narayana.The lems and difficulties resolved word 'Satya' through the help that is suddenly means Truth. coming in from unexpected cor- Narayan means ners.

He who is living Thus, the young couple who in everybody are wishing to have offspring will and everything be blessed with children, the sick in this universe. will regain health, and students will Lord Satya acquire good knowledge and pur- Narayan recomsue best careers, financial hard- mends that in ships will go away, success and order to overprosperity will be obtained. come difficulties The reasons for the popularity and problems of this particular puja are many. either caused by the deeds of this Firstly, it is very simple and easy life or previous life, one has to to perform, and secondly, it can begin worshipping and practicing be performed by anyone; young truth which is decisive. Worshipor old, man or woman, rich or poor, ping truth means being 'truthful' high caste or low-caste or even to oneself and then 'truthful' to widows. This reveals that as far others. This can be achieved by as God is concerned, there are no speaking the truth, seeing the barriers to worship Him. It is only truth, and doing truthful actions. the sincerity, faith, belief, and de- That means, the more we are bevotion of the Bhakta (devotee) coming truthful, the more we are that counts to reach Him. worshipping the Lord Narayan Thirdly, it and his prescan be perence in ourformed on selves and any day and others. at any time, By and although large, Shri certain days S a t y a and times Narayana are considKatha is perered more formed with auspicious. all the family Generally members, devotes perrelatives, form this friends, and Katha on neighbors.

Pt Anil Joshi any special The puroccasions pose of insuch as Graha Pravesh, before viting them for the puja is to prowedding, on wedding anniversary mote and reassure the harmony day, birthday, on achieving a mile- and unity among family and comstone or fulfilling a special wish in munity members. Singing prayers life, and during times of great together for the Lord creates unity achievements/success in careers and positive vibrations in our as an offering of gratitude to the souls that helps to overcome negaLord Vishnu who is the Lord of tive tendencies which cause con-

flicts and problems in our lives.

According to Hindu philosophy, we should focus not only on

Shri Satya Narayana

our own happiness but also encourage and support others in any way we can to be happy. The real truth behind this saying is that when you make others happy, in the long run you are making yourself happy. That means that what we sow today, we reap the same tomorrow. As it is also rightly said what goes around that comes around.

The stories and characters (belonging to four Varnas of Hindu society) coming in the Satya Narayana Katha are very near to our lives. Their life-styles, thinking, practices, beliefs, values, philosophy, situations, and their life's ups and downs resemble ours.

These characters make us realize how they suffer in life due to their evil actions, greed, self-ego, knowledge-ego, money-ego, and powerego. People suffer when they develop attachment to their wives, children, property, and wealth. A person cannot get true bhakti (devotion) in life without the Veda Gyan (true knowledge) to realize the ultimate aim (liberation) of life which is the central question of Shri Satya Narayana Katha. This Katha brings us near true devotion (Lord Vishnu) and provides us with an opportunity to shower the Lord and his dear devotees with prema and bhakti (love and

devotion) and in return, get fulfilled the four rewards of life: dharma (spiritual need), artha (ma-

terial need), kaama (personal need), and moksha (liberation).

To understand the hidden meanings of the moral stories, importance of listening to and performing Shri Satya Narayana Katha in this Kaliyuga, how we can lead a righteous life, alleviate our sufferings, get rid of ego and obtain salvation in life, please come to listen to the explanations, elucidations and revelations of this Katha.

Our self-realization, confession, repentance, and determination not to repeat any evil actions, thoughts and sights will provide us with a right path for following and practicing real devotion with true knowledge. This puja will bring true devotion, knowledge, happiness, benefits, peace of mind, pleasures of this world, genuine wealth, and power to seek the ultimate salvation in this life.

I humbly invite all the devotees of Lake County and Greater Chicago Land on behalf of Hindu Mandir at Grayslake, IL to participate in our Samohika Shri Satya Narayana Katha Puja to be held on May 31, 2014 from 5:30 onwards.

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Bay Area residents remember Naranjibhai V. Patel India Post News Service

SUNNYVALE, CA: A condolence meeting (shok sabha) was held on May 3 at Sunnyvale Hindu Temple to honor the memory of Naranjibhai Vithalbhai Patel who passed away on Wednesday April 23 in San Jose. The meeting was attended by over 500 Bay area residents from all walks of life. The family requested making a donation to the National Kidney Foundation.

The condolence meeting was told there are in our community many individuals that have succeeded in building their business empire or attained fame and fortune, but there are few that have given back so much to the community.

Naranjibhai V. Patel was one of the few individuals who always put the needs of others in before his own needs. His humility was quite refreshing, especially when we look at the materialistic world that we live in.

Naranjibhai Vithalbhai Patel was born in Varad India in 1938.

In 1955 he moved to Nairobi for a short time before making England his home for the next 20 years.

Naranjibhai married Shantaben in Melton Mowbray, England in October of 1961. Soon, they were

Naranjibhai Vithalbhai Patel

blessed with the arrival of two children; Nila and Ashwin.

In 1974 he and his family migrated to San Jose, CA. Naranjibhai began a successful career in Hospitality and Real Estate.

Although he was a successful businessman he soon realized that his true passion was serving the community. Naranjibhai was instrumental in establishing numerous organizations: ICA of the South Bay, First Indo American Bank, Nargis Dutt Memorial Foundation, DAS (Devotional Associates of Sitaram), CCF (Charitable Care Foundation), SF-USA (Sanskruti Foundation-USA) and BAGS (Bay Area Gujarati Samaj).

The one organization Naranjibhai was most passionate about was the Hindu Temple and Community Center, South Bay. Over the past 20 years he spent a majority of his time overseeing the development and completion of the temple and community center.

He leaves behind a lasting legacy to be enjoyed by generations to come.

Along with being involved in US based organizations he also believed it was important to remember your roots. In Varad, he was influential re-vitalizing a dormant girls ashram and was instrumental in the development of Varad Sarvajanik High School.

His smiling face and the kindness he shared with others will never be forgotten.

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Bay area residents party with Bipasha VIDYA SETHURAMAN India Post News Service

SAN JOSE: Mumbai Samba featuring special guest Bollywood actress Bipasha Basu held May 3 at Hilton Doubletree, San Jose witnessed over 300 Bay area residents partying with the diva.

The event was organized by Bhavini Joshi and Amitabh Bhargava of "Instant Karma". It is Bay area's Premier Entertainment and Marketing company that provides awesome entertainment and related marketing services. Instant Karma always strives to bring in Superstars and we don't repeat too many artists, said Bhavini Joshi, CEO of the Instant Karma event company.

The evening commenced with a power-packed performance by kids from Bollynritya. Jyotsna Bendapudi of DanceDilse, a Bay Area dance company set the stage on fire with her performance for Bipasha hit number "Beedi Jalaile" from Omkara. She taught the dance moves to the group of audience thus invoking the party mood. This was followed by dance performance by Samba Mundial, Silicon Valley's samba school. The team enthralled the crowd by their traditional Brazilian-inspired movements and percussive sounds.

By 11 pm, the hall was bursting with excitement as the emcee of

the evening, Kishan from Desi1170 AM and Mahima creations, announced Bipasha's arrival on stage. Hysteria roared throughout the arena when the hot bombshell and fitness freak of Bollywood Bipasha Basu arrived.

"Over the years, I have been

privileged to have been a part of and performed at several award ceremony and this IIFA 2014 was special to me with the love of my American fans" said the Bengali bombshell, responding to the emcee's questions. She did speak about her workout video which is

out in the market and emphasizes regular fitness regime for healthy living.

Basu debuted in a negative role in Ajnabee, which earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut. Her first commercial success was Raaz in 2002 and from

then there has been no looking back for this Superstar. Basu established herself as a successful actress with the success of No Entry, Corporate and Dhoom 2.

She made her international film debut with the 2013 Australian film Singularity.

Malaika, Yami to walk for VikramPhadnis India Post News Service

SAN JOSE: VikramPhadnis showcased his collection at the IIFA Rocks 2014 ramp. The perfect collection and music set the

ramp on fire. The designer showcased his Nazaakat collection for 'Vishal Saris by VikramPhadnis'.

Vikram had Bollywood's beautiful divas walk the ramp for him at the event.

Malaika with Vikram

Yami Gautam rose to fame with her role in Vicky Donor and most recently she was seen in Total Siyappa with Ali Zafar. Malaika Arora Khan on the other hand has a lot of experience on the ramp.

The model turned actress has turned celebrity showstopper and is known for her item numbers like Munni Badnam and Chaiyya Chaiyya.

On Saturday, June 7, D e s i g n e r VikramPhadnis along with Bollywood actress Malaika Arora Khan and actor Dino Morea will be at Janta Connection's event to be held in San Jose. An upscale fashion show, exquisite dinner, and designer exhibition will be an event no one would want to miss. The dazzling outfits of VikramPhadnis are perfect blend of traditional and modern elements!

Malaika, Vikram & Dino Morea

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TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Locha-E-Ulfat: 2 States 2 Baby Doll: Ragini MMS 2 3 Mast Magan: 2 States 4 Party Toh Banti Hai: Bhootnath Returns 5 Offo: 2 States 28 India Post

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6 Chaar Botal Vodka: Ragini MMS 2 7 Palat ( Tera Hero Idhar Hai ): Main Tera Hero 8 Tu Hi Hai Aashiqui: Dishkiyaaon 9 Dard Dilo Ke: The Xpose 10 Dil Aaj Kal: Purani Jeans

I

t's known that 'No Entry Mein Entry', sequel to the 2005 film will have 10 actresses - including the heroines of the original, Bipasha Basu, Lara Dutta, Esha Deol and Celina Jaitly. What is surprising is that names of Sunny Leone and Elli Avram have also been popping up.

While Sunny's husband Daniel Weber kept mum on the topic stating, "No comment", Elli who is in Dubai was unreachable.

Director Anees Bazmee revealed, "The casting for the other actresses, barring those in the previous film, will be locked in by next month. I want a few established and a few new faces as since it's a multi-starrer to get the dates of all the established actors at once will be tough."

Speaking of schedule, the film has now been pushed to January 2015. It was previously slated to go on floors this June. Anees reasoned, "While most of my films take no longer than 70 days of making, this film will take at least 150, as all the three lead actors (Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor and Fardeen Khan) will be seen in double roles. Also Salman won't be able to give me enough time before that. He has Sooraj Barjatya's film lined up after Kick, where he plays a double role too, so he has two back-to-back double roles."

C

ricket's favorite poster boy, Yuvraj Singh, has found love again in the glamorous lanes of Bollywood. Lately, he has been spotted with Leepakshi Ellawadi, a fashion designer who has put together the costume of films like Youngistaan and Ek Villain.

Revealed a common friend, "Whenever Yuvi is in town, he makes it a point to meet up with Leepakshi. He really enjoys her company. Whether it's a crazy night out at a club or a sober luncheon, the two are inseparable. It's time they took the relationship forward."

S

he was last seen on screen 17 years ago in the '97 film Jagannath. After that the former skipper of the Indian cricket team, Mohd Azharuddin entered the picture and Sangeeta Bijlani chose marriage over movies. But after 14 years of togetherness, the couple divorced and now Bijli is back to her first love.

"I never thought of a comeback and am still not looking for a serious career reboot. There were offers earlier too but I wasn't ready. It's all about timing and Shab is an exciting project," she says. It started when the film's director Onir met the 53-year-old former Miss India at designer Anita Dongre's fashion show and made her an offer which she accepted after mulling over it for a couple of months. Sangeeta, who plays a high society fashionista, had a reading with him and co-star Arpita Pal yesterday and the film will roll in Delhi in June.

Leepakshi has worked as a stylist on a couple of IPL events, and apparently that is where the two met. "They instantly hit it off and now, it's almost been three years since they have known each other. She was also by his side when he was ill," the friend added.

Leepakshi gets along with Yuvi's mum Shabnam as well.

When contacted, Leepakshi was reluctant to speak about the cricketer.

"Yuvraj is a great person and we hang out together. But I am not going to comment on this any further."

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„ Health

Line

Legislature passes medical marijuana bill MONTPELIER, Vt.: The Vermont Legislature has passed a bill that would allow more people to obtain medical marijuana.

The bill, which was on its way to the governor, also requests a study to determine how much new tax revenue could be generated if marijuana is legalized in the future.

Vermont Public Radio reports that no more than a total of 1,000 people can be registered to receive medical marijuana from four dispensaries under Vermont's current law.

The bill would remove the cap on the number of people who can participate in the program. -AP

„ Now, sunglasses to prevent travel sickness LONDON: A UK farmer claims to have developed a pair of sunglasses that reduce the wearer's perception of movement to prevent travel sickness.

Tim Flaxman, 53, of Burgh Castle, near Great Yarmouth, has designed the sunglasses in which one eyepiece is so opaque that it lets in light but the wearer cannot see movement through it.

The glasses, called TravelShades, are perfectly symmetrical, so that the wearer can change the eye that is blocked simply by turning the glasses upside down, 'The Sunday Times' reported.

Motion sickness is caused by an imbalance between what the body is experiencing and the visual signals sent to the brain.

The part of the brain that controls vomiting, the area postrema, reacts when the signals suggest a conflict and prompts nausea and sickness.

The glasses stop the conflicting signals by closing down one source, cutting vision from 3D to 2D and thus reducing the perception of movement.

Flaxman, who runs a livery farm, has spent 10 years and up to 85,000 pounds developing the glasses. He is now working with a British company, and Lloyds Pharmacy has shown interest in stocking the glasses. -PTI

Health Science

Lawmakers mull plans for mental health facility Details on Page 35

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MCI to include stem cell transplant in MBBS curriculum NEW DELHI: The Medical Council of India is considering a proposal to introduce a chapter on stem cell transplant in academic curriculum for medical graduates to increase awareness among young doctors about the treatment, especially for bloodrelated disorders.

As per the proposal, there would be a separate chapter on the importance and techniques of stem cell transplant for medical graduates, MCI member Navin Dang said while delivering a lecture at the International Bone Marrow Transplant Summit here.

"There is not much awareness about stem cell donation in India.

Introducing the chapter would help in creating awareness among the medical graduates about stem cell transplantation which in turn will help spreading awareness about importance of stem cell donation," he said.

Leading experts from the US, Germany and India participated in the Summit, organized by an NGO Bharat Stem Cell, and exchanged latest research findings and techniques to offer stem-cell treatment

of diseases.

As per experts, around 50,000 people having blood cancer and related diseases die in India every year while waiting for suitable stem cell donors.

For blood cancer patients, a stem cell donation is their only chance of survival, but a minuscule number of patients diagnosed in India find a matching donor, they said.

ensure successful lifesaving treatment for those affected by blood cancer.

The US has a registry of 22 million donors in a population of around 317 million, but in India the figure was a poor 40,000 donors in a population of 1.2 billion.

Germany has a registry of 3 million stem cell donors.

The US's National Marrow Donor Program, considered one

The experts underlined the need to launch a major awareness drive to educate people about importance of donating stem cells to treat cancer patients with conditions such as leukaemia and lymphoma.

Speaking at the gathering, one of India's leading oncologists, Dr Vinod Raina said concerted efforts are needed by both private sector and government to address the misconception that donating stem cell may have adverse impact on health of the donors.

Almost all Western countries have huge network of donors to

of the largest registries of donors, had facilitated more than 55,000 transplants worldwide till last year.

Emphasizing the need for having a registry of at least one million donors, Dr Mammen Chandy, director at Tata Medical Centre, Kolkata said government must allocate adequate funds to create a registry of stem cell donors.

He said though lakhs of people may have required stem cell transplantation, around 6,000 such transplants have been carried out in India so far.

"If we are looking at making a registry of one million donor, then requirement of funding would be around Rs 60 crore to 100 crore and government can definitely play a role," he said.

Chandy also rued lack of a high-quality laboratories to carry out various tests relating to stem cell therapy.

As per estimates, about one out of five transplants is done from Datri, an NGO, and other four out of five use international donors.

The experts underlined the need to launch a major awareness drive to educate people about importance of donating stem cells to treat cancer patients with conditions such as leukaemia and lymphoma.

"We have to improve awareness for creating a donor registry.

The government as well as private sector will have to come forward to create awareness on donating stem cells," said Raina. -PTI

Humans can sniff out the opposite sex BEIJING: Men and women can subconsciously smell the presence of the opposite sex based on chemical cues, a new study has found.

The human body produces chemical cues that communicate gender to members of the opposite sex, Chinese researchers said.

Whiffs of the active steroid ingredients (androstadienone in males and estratetraenol in females) influence our perceptions of movement as being either more masculine or more feminine, they said.

The effect, which occurs completely without awareness, depends on both our biological sex and our sexual orientations, the study found.

"Our findings argue for the

existence of human sex pheromones. They show that the nose can sniff out gender from body secretions even when we don't

Earlier studies have shown that androstadienone, found in male semen and armpits, can promote positive mood in females as op-

think we smell anything on the conscious level," said researcher Wen Zhou of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

posed to males.

Estratetraenol, first identified in female urine, has similar effects on males. But it wasn't clear whether

those chemicals were truly acting as sexual cues.

In the new study, Zhou and her colleagues asked males and females, both heterosexual and homosexual, to watch what are known as point-light walkers (PLWs) move in place on a screen.

PLWs consist of 15 dots representing the 12 major joints in the human body, plus the pelvis, thorax, and head. The task was to decide whether those digitally morphed gaits were more masculine or feminine.

Individuals completed that task over a series of days while being exposed to androstadienone, estratetraenol, or a control solution, all of which smelled like Cont'd on Page 33 cloves.

May 9, 2014

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Fear of weight gain may prevent smokers from quitting WASHINGTON: Smokers may avoid treatment to quit smoking if they previously gained weight while trying to kick the butt, according to a new study.

Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine said weight gain is a predictable occurrence for smokers who have recently quit.

Within the first year after quitting, they gain an average of 4 to 6 kg, and some smokers report that they keep smoking simply because they do not want to gain weight from quitting.

Susan Veldheer, project manager in the Department of Public Health Sciences, said that smokers would avoid treatment to quit if they are highly concerned about gaining weight.

Researchers surveyed 186 smokers who sought treatment to quit and 102 smokers who avoided treatment. Smokers were defined as "seeking treatment" if they participated in a smoking cessation treatment research study.

Other smokers were approached in the clinics and offered the cessation treatment research study. If they were not interested in the study, they were defined as "not seek-

ing treatment," or avoiding it.

Participants were current smokers who smoked at least five cigarettes per day and were recruited from Penn State Hershey Medical Center.

lished in Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, the scientific journal of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI).

may know the benefits of quitting," Veldheer said.

Researchers suggest that clinicians should ask smokers if they had previously gained weight while trying to quit. If so, these smokers should be assured that strategies to maintain weight will be addressed in treatment.

The findings appear in The International Journal of Clinical Practice. -PTI

Humans can sniff out the opposite sex Cont'd from Page 32

All participants were asked about weight gain during past attempts to quit and their concern for gaining weight after quitting in the future.

Overall, smokers who sought treatment to quit were equally concerned about gaining weight as the smokers who avoided treatment. The difference was in whether or not the smokers had gained weight before.

Of all the participants, 53 per cent had

Asthma sufferers may be prone to bone loss WASHINGTON: Asthma sufferers may be at an increased risk of bone loss, according to a new study which found a link between the condition and decrease in bone mineral density.

Researchers in Seoul, South Korea studied more than 7,000 patients, 433 of which had airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) or asthma.

Lumber spine and femur bone density was significantly lower in those with AHR or asthma, than those without the conditions, according to the study pub-

gained weight during a previous attempt to quit smoking. Within this subgroup, smokers who were highly concerned about gaining weight were more likely to avoid treatment to help them quit.

"Perhaps we shouldn't be surprised that smokers who gained weight previously are 'once bitten, twice shy,'" Veldheer said.

"They are concerned about weight gain if they attempt to quit even though they

"We know prolonged use of corticosteroids in the treatment of asthma is a risk factor of osteoporosis, but we haven't had definite data showing the relationship between asthma itself and bone loss," said researcher Jae-Woo Jung, lead author of the study.

"This study has shown a meaningful association between the two conditions even in the absence of previous oral corticosteroid use," Jung said.

"It is difficult to pinpoint the cause of bone loss in this subset of patients," said allergist John Oppenheimer, Annals associate editor and ACAAI fellow.

"Reasons can include corticosteroid use, low levels of vitamin D or even race. This research has unveiled findings that need be further studied," Oppenheimer said.

According to the ACAAI, while oral corticosteroids can be associated with adverse effects, such as osteoporosis, this medication is the most effective in treating asthma. -PTI

The results showed that smelling androstadienone systematically biased heterosexual females, but not males, toward perceiving walkers as more masculine.

By contrast, smelling estratetraenol systematically biased heterosexual males, but not females, toward perceiving walkers as more feminine.

The researchers found that homosexual males responded to gender pheromones more like heterosexual females did. Bisexual or homosexual female responses to the same scents fell somewhere in between those of heterosexual males and females.

"When the visual gender cues were ex-

tremely ambiguous, smelling androstadienone versus estratetraenol produced about an eight per cent change in gender perception," Zhou said.

"The results provide the first direct evidence that the two human steroids communicate opposite gender information that is differentially effective to the two sex groups based on their sexual orientation," researchers said.

"Moreover, they demonstrate that human visual gender perception draws on subconscious chemosensory biological cues, an effect that has been hitherto unsuspected," they said.

The study was published in the Cell Press journal Current Biology. -PTI

Health Science Post

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CDC confirms first case of MERS virus in American NEW YORK: Health officials confirmed the first case of an American infected with a mysterious virus that has sickened hundreds in the Middle East.

The man fell ill after flying to the US from Saudi Arabia where he was a health care worker.

He is hospitalized in good condition in northwest Indiana with Middle East respiratory syndrome, or MERS, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Indiana health officials said.

The virus is not highly contagious and this case "represents a very low risk to the broader, general public," Dr Anne Schuchat told reporters during a CDC briefing.

The federal agency plans to track down passengers he may have been in close contact with during his travels; it was not clear how many may have been exposed to the virus.

So far, it is not known how he was infected, Schuchat said.

National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Diseases shows a transmission of the MERS coronavirus that emerged in 2012.

Saudi Arabia has been at the centre of a Middle East outbreak of MERS that began two years ago. The virus has spread among health care workers, most notably at four facilities in that country last spring.

Officials didn't provide details about the American's job in Saudi Arabia or whether he treated MERS patients.

Overall, at least 400 people have had the respiratory illness, and more than 100 people have died. All had ties to the Middle East region or to people who traveled there.

Experts said it was just a matter of time before MERS showed up in the U.S., as it has in Europe and Asia.

"Given the interconnectedness of our world, there's no such thing as 'it stays over there and it can't come here,'" said Dr W Ian Lipkin, a Columbia University MERS expert.

MERS belongs to the coronavirus family that includes the common cold and SARS, or severe acute respiratory syndrome, which caused some 800 deaths globally in 2003. -AP

18 hospitals served notices for ignoring rules RAIPUR: The Chhattisgarh Environment Conservation Board (CECB) has issued notices to 18 government and private hospitals, including AIIMS Raipur, for allegedly ignoring the rules for disposal of bio-medical waste.

"On the direction of Chief Minister Raman Singh, the Board has intensified its vigilance to check pollution in the hospital premises.

"In this line, 18 hospitals, including five major government hospitals, have been served show cause notices for ignoring the rules for disposal of bio-medical waste," CECB Chairman and Principal Secretary to the housing and environment department N Baijendra Kumar said in a statement.

The All India Institutes of Medical Sciences, Raipur, Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Hospital, Raipur, district hospital at Dhamtari, Chhattisgarh Institute of Medical Sciences (CIMS), Bilaspur and district hospital Korba, are prominent among those issued notices, he said.

Similarly, notices have also been slapped on the Shrishti Institute of Medical Science & Research Centre, Korba, Mission Hospital, Bilaspur and other hospitals, the officer said.

"These hospitals have been

"These hospitals have been given time for disposal of their medical waste as early as possible in an appropriate and scientific manner. If they fail to do so then stern action will be taken against them," Kumar said. given time for disposal of their medical waste as early as possible in an appropriate and scientific manner. If they fail to do so then stern action will be taken against

them," Kumar said.

He said the Board will continue to take action against medical institutions which have been violating bio-medical waste (management and handling) rules 1998 of the Environment (Protection) Act 1986.

"The Board is not only examining the bio-waste handling facilities available with medical institutions, but also those offering common waste treatment facilities," Kumar said.

The CECB had been carrying out inspections to check whether medical institutions are scientifically treating their bio medical waste.

"So far, 515 medical institutions, including hospitals, nursing homes and pathological laboratories, are brought under the purview of the law," the statement said.

The CECB wants to ensure that all these institutions strictly follow the rules and manage their biomedical waste properly, Kumar said. -PTI

Couple ties knot in Raipur hospital RAIPUR: Fulfilling the vow of being together in sickness and in health, a 25-year-old man tied the knot with his wheelchair-bound bride at a hospital here.

The female medical ward at Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Medical Hospital reverberated with the chant of hymns when Rupali, who is suffering from complications caused by jaundice, sat through all the rituals and even performed the "pheras" while sitting in her wheelchair with bridegroom Varun Bagh, a native of Odisha, on her side, a hospital spokesperson told PTI. Among revelers were relatives from both sides, apart from doctors and other hospital staff.

This is 22-year-old Rupali's second marriage. Her husband passed away ten months after her first marriage two years back, said her aunt Hemlata Mahajan.

Preparations for Rupali and Varun's marriage on the occasion of 'Akshay Tritiya' were in full swing, but their plans went awry after Rupali was admitted to the hospital for jaundice.

Though relatives from the side of the bride and groom were in a dilemma on how to go about the marriage, the hospital staff came to their aid and authorities allowed the ceremony to be conducted in the ward itself, Mahajan said.

Rupali had chosen to marry Varun during an introductory meet held last year, she said.

Like any other Hindu marriage,

the 'baarat' (marriage party) came to the hospital premises and rituals performed, culminating in Rupali and Varun garlanding each other amid cheers from those in attendance.

Meanwhile, health and other departments concerned are on alert following death of as many as five persons in the recent past due to jaundice.

The total number of jaundice-

This is 22-year-old Rupali's second marriage. Her husband passed away ten months after her first marriage two years back, said her aunt Hemlata Mahajan. affected people in the state capital itself has touched around 500, according to health officials at Raipur Municipal Corporation (RMC).

The RMC and state's health department have started conducting health camps in several areas to locate patients and are taking necessary measures.

The state government has also directed officials to disinfect drinking water supplied in areas where cases of jaundice are detected. -PTI

Health bill dies in Florida Legislature MIAMI: Florida lawmakers ended the session with a lot of last minute wrangling on an omnibus health bill that ultimately died, taking down provisions that would have expanded the powers of nurse practitioners and promoted the use of telemedicine.

The House tacked on a massive amendment by Rep. Jason Brodeur addressing everything from assisted living facilities and laser dermatology to HIV testing, orthotics and pneumonia vaccines for new nursing home residents. The changes came after the Senate killed proposals that would allow nurse practitioners to work without a doctor's super-

vision and promote the use of telemedicine. Proponents said both measures would reduce health care costs and address a critical shortage of primary care physicians in the state.

Senators nixed the House's telemedicine provision, worrying that allowing doctors to practice without a Florida license would compromise patient safety and leaves patients with no recourse for malpractice. Several hospitals around the state have had success with telemedicine in recent years, helping patients in rural areas connect to specialists or getting multiple consultations conducted simultaneously for acute emergency cases. -AP

May 9, 2014

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Lawmakers mull plans for mental health facility JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.: Plans for a new mental health facility at the Fulton State Hospital campus are moving forward, though details about paying for it must be worked out as Missouri lawmakers face an approaching deadline.

Officials could back the issuance of bonds but must decide how to issue them and how quickly to pay them off. The dead-

only maximum-security psychiatric facility and is the oldest public mental health facility west of the Mississippi River. Patients include those committed by the courts for evaluation and treatment and people found not guilty or unable to stand trial because of mental disease.

Among the facilities at the hospital are the maximum-security Biggs Forensic CenFulton State Hospital campus

line for passing non-budget bills is May 16. ``We know there are more than several ways to skin a cat and get legislation passed,'' said House Budget Committee Chairman Rick Stream, R-Kirkwood. ``We like to keep all options on the table and move three or four balls down the field and hopefully one of them will cross the finish line.''

The Fulton State Hospital is Missouri's

ter, the intermediate-security Guhleman Forensic Center and the Sex Offender Rehabilitation and Treatment Services unit.

Officials have proposed demolishing Biggs and several other buildings and constructing a new 300-bed high-security facility to house patients from Biggs and Guhleman.

That would free beds for Sex Offender Rehabilitation and Treatment Services.

The project is estimated to cost $211 million. The current year's budget has $13 mil-

lion for design work, and bonding could be used to finance the remainder.

An important decision is how long to spend paying off the bonds. A longer repayment schedule would require devoting less money annually to bond payments that otherwise could go to schools, higher education and social services. However, that would increase overall interest costs. A shorter repayment schedule would reduce interest payments but tie up more state funds on the hospital project during that period.

In addition to financial calculations, officials must consider legislative concerns in winning final approval for a plan.

Three possibilities for the Fulton project are: • Issue bonds through the Missouri Development Finance Board to be paid off over 25 years. That follows Gov. Jay Nixon's proposal, and the Senate included $14.2 million in its version of the state's operating budget so that it would remain an option.

Lawmakers in the House and Senate are meeting to develop a final state spending plan. • Issue bonds through the Missouri Development Finance Board to be paid off in five years. The House passed a separate capital budget measure last week with $44 million for bonding. The bill would need approval from the Senate. • Permit the State Board of Public Build-

ings to issue additional bonds, including for the Fulton hospital. Legislation has passed the Senate but would need approval in the House.

Legislators say the options have advantages and disadvantages.

Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Kurt Schaefer said his main concern

An important decision is how long to spend paying off the bonds. A longer repayment schedule would require devoting less money annually to bond payments that otherwise could go to schools, higher education and social services. is finding an option with the most certainty of ensuring the facility is built. ``I think we will come to some resolution. I think it's just a little bit too early to know which one of those three options we'll use,'' said Schaefer, R-Columbia. ``But I would say it's a very high probability that we come to agreement and get that built.'' -AP

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Realty Tidbits

Bond would be used to house low-income veterans

Real Estate

P

roposition 41 on the June ballot asks California voters whether $600 million in existing veterans bonds should be redirected to build, renovate and acquire apartments and multifamily housing for low-income veterans.

At least half the money would be earmarked for ``extremely lowincome'' veterans, defined as about $14,000 a year for a single person in California. All tenants would earn less than 80 percent of the average income adjusted for family size and county, which translates to about $38,000 a year for a single person in California.

The state would use general tax revenue to repay the principal and interest, which the nonpartisan Legislative Analyst's Office estimates will amount to $50 million over 15 years.

Supporters, including former Defense Secretary Leon Panetta and veterans groups, say the measure honors up to 45,000 veterans returning to the state from war some without jobs or homes. The Assembly voted 78-0 and the Senate voted 36-0 to place the measure for the ballot.-AP

„ Chennai in list of top 12 realty destinations CHENNAI: Strong English speaking skills and a wide mix of industries that promote cross pollination of work culture has made Chennai one of the top 12 cities in the world for real estate investments. This is the first global recognition the city has received; it is also the lone Indian city on the list.

The Candy GPS Report identifies 12 cities around the globe with the potential to show strong residential property price growth in the next few years. The report produced by Candy & Candy, Savills World Research and Deutsche Asset & Wealth Management - said.

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Kerala Govt to streamline real estate sector

May 9, 2014

Details on Page 39

Realty sector displays positive outlook: Knight Frank survey MUMBAI: Anticipating a change in political leadership, sentiments of home buyers and investors have seen an improvement displaying a strong positive outlook for the real estate sector, a recent survey said here.

According to a survey conducted by Knight Frank and FICCI, stakeholders have pinned their hopes on an imminent change in political leadership which has pushed 'future sentiment' score to 63 in Q1 2014, as compared to 50 during the October-December 2013 quarter.

The report suggested that real estate stakeholders are markedly bullish about the future and expect the business environment to be upbeat in the coming six months as election polls point towards an imminent change in regime.

"Stakeholders have pinned

their hopes on the imminent change in political leadership at the centre. This optimism is not a case in isolation in any particular region in the country but extends

Shishir Baijal said.

The report pointed out both developers and financial institutions expect the real estate sector to perform much better in the com-

"The stakeholders are cheerful and expect the business environment to be upbeat in the coming six months" to all four regions -- north, west, south and east," Knight Frank Chairman and Managing Director

ing six months.

"As the country waits for the new government to take charge

at the centre, future sentiments have improved across all zones in realty sector. Majority of the developers and financial institutions are quite bullish about the future of the economy as well as the funding scenario.

"The stakeholders are cheerful and expect the business environment to be upbeat in the coming six months," FICCI Secretary General A Didar Singh said.

According to the survey, nearly 67 per cent of the respondents foresee an improvement in residential project launches and sales over the next six months, however, price appreciation is likely to remain sluggish.

New office supply is likely to stay in check during the next six months, while stakeholders expect an upsurge in leasing volume by the end of Q3 2014, the report said. -PTI

Puravankara sells 50% stake in Kochi project NEW DELHI: Realty firm Puravankara Projects Ltd has sold 50 per cent stake in its upcoming project at Kochi to Sobha Developers for Rs 326 crore.

Both Bangalore-based companies will jointly develop a housing project on this 16.69 acres of land near Marine Drive in Kochi, Kerala. The company has entered into a co-owner

agreement with Sobha Developers to develop this project.

"This is to inform that the Puravankara Projects has sold by way of sale deed and agreement for sale to Sobha Developers Ltd,

BSE. As co-owners both firms will execute the project, with each being entitled to equal rights.

"The total consideration of Rs 326.56 crore will be paid by

lands in Marine Drive Kochi Kerala and as co-owner, Sobha Developers would be constructing a residential project at Marine Drive in Kochi Kerala," Puravankara said in a filing to the

Sobha Developers," Puravankara said.

Puravankara has already got Rs 161.56 crore and Sobha would pay rest of the amount within 9 months from the date of receipt

of plan approval.

"The company would be using the proceeds substantially to prepay debt," Puravankara said.

In a separate filing, Sobha said: "The total consideration for acquiring the co-ownership rights is Rs 326 crore".

Sobha said it will undertake the construction of the project and will be entitled to cost of construction plus a mark-up of 10 per cent over and above such cost.

The company will also be entitled to an additional 5 per cent of the net profits of the project as management fees from Puravankara.

Sobha has a strong presence in Kerala and is executing projects in three cities Thrissur, Calicut and Kochi.

The Kerala property market is one of the company's focus area in the southern markets apart from Bangalore. -PTI

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Embassy-Blackstone buy majority stake in biz park NEW DELHI: Real estate developer Embassy Group and private equity firm Blackstone have completed acquisition of majority stake in a 106 acre business park in Bangalore for nearly Rs 1,200 crore.

Embassy Office Parks - an equal joint venture between Embassy Group and funds managed by Blackstone Group - has completed the acquisition of business park named 'Vrindavan Tech Village', Embassy group said in a statement.

Embassy group Chairman and Managing Director Jitendra Virwani said: "Blackstone and Embassy came together with a common vision to create world class office spaces and enable business communities to drive greater efficiency and growth,, The park has been renamed as 'Embassy TechVillage'.

"Embassy Office Parks has acquired the controlling stake in Embassy TechVillage with a valuation of Rs 1,951 crore. This deal is pegged as one of the largest commercial real estate transactions in India," the statement said.

A company spokesperson said that Embassy office Parks has acquired 60 per cent stake in Embassy TechVillage for nearly Rs 1,200 crore.

Embassy TechVillage is planned as an integrated project with commercial compo-

nents as well as retail and residential spaces. It has a potential built-up-office area in excess of 15 million sq ft, with 1.9 million sq ft already completed.

Embassy group Chairman and Managing Director Jitendra Virwani said: "Blackstone and Embassy came together with a common vision to create world class office spaces and enable business communities to drive greater efficiency and growth.

"This set the tone to creating Embassy Office Parks which, post the Embassy TechVillage acquisition, will boast of over 20 million sq ft of commercial real estate space."

Embassy Office Parks would now have over 1,50,000 park users across 4 business parks and enjoy strong and robust tenant relationships with over 100 blue chip, MNC and Indian companies in the portfolio.

Blackstone Real Estate Group Senior Managing Director Tuhin Parikh said: "We are delighted to partner with the Embassy Group and co-lead the aspiration of creating, owning and managing some of the finest business parks in India.

"The acquisition of Embassy TechVillage is a significant milestone in strengthening our Embassy Office Parks portfolio and expanding our footprint across the country."

Embassy Office Parks has three other business parks in Bangalore and Pune comprising 18 million sq ft of commercial real estate space.

Embassy Group is one of the leading property developers in India. It has developed over 35 million sq ft of commercial, residential and retail space in India as well as Malaysia and Serbia. Blackstone is one of the world's leading investment and advisory firms. -PTI

Indiabulls Housing to raise Rs 4,500 cr via bonds MUMBAI: Mortgage lender Indiabulls Housing Finance (IBHF) is aiming to raise Rs 4,500 crore through bond issues in 201415, a top company official has said.

"We will raise Rs 4,500 crore in this fiscal through bond issues and on a net basis, excluding repayment of earlier bond issues, the same will be Rs 3,500 crore," the company's Managing Director and chief executive Gagan Banga told PTI. In 2013-14, it raised Rs 10,525 crore through the bond issuance route, which contributed to 26 per cent of the incremental borrowing done by the company.

A bulk of borrowing last fiscal came through bank loans, where it has relationships with all the 26 state-run banks and 16 lenders from the private and foreign banks space.

Banga said the company is well capitalized with a capital adequacy ratio of over 19 per cent and will not be having any requirements during the fiscal.

The company notched a growth of 24 per cent in the post tax net at Rs 1,568.5 crore for FY14, with the last quarter coming in 23 per cent higher at Rs 451.5 crore. It

registered a loan growth of 20 per cent during the fiscal.

"In FY15, the company is targeting a 2530 per cent growth in both the net profit and loan book in FY15," Banga said, adding the net interest margin of 3.50 per cent will be maintained during the fiscal. -PTI

Kerala Govt to streamline real estate sector KOCHI: In a bid to streamline the real estate sector, Kerala Government was mulling introduction of a slew of measures, including setting up of a real estate authority and online facility for plan approvals, a state Minister said today.

The government was giving final touches to the Real Estate Authority Bill, modeled on the lines of the Real Estate Authority Bill introduced by the Central Government, and a draft of the proposed legislation would be available in the public domain within a month, Urban Affairs and Town Planning and Development Authority Minister Manjalamkuzhi Ali said at 'Recon 2014', Kerala's first real estate convention, here.

"You like it or not, the state government is keen to bring the much needed order to the real estate sector. As part of this, we will bring out a draft of Real Estate Authority Bill within a month's time. The Bill will be finalized after consultation with all stakeholders in the sector. We are open to all suggestions," he said.

Online facility for plan approvals for builders and property developers was another major step being planned by the government to cut unprofessionalism and graft

in the sector, he said.

"The graft involved in getting clearances from authorities concerned to construct a building is enormous and this in fact is leading to escalation of the project cost", he said, adding the new system, coming into effect from June 1, will do away with the illegal practice and make the process transparent. -PTI

Minister Manjalamkuzhi

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41 India Post

K

ufri, a small picturesque hill station at the foot hills of Himalayas, is located at the southern part of the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its pleasing climate and scenic beauty. It is a pleasant location near the majestic hill station Shimla.

Perched at a height of 2,510 m above the sea level, Kufri is known for its picturesque trekking and hiking trails. Adventurous travelers prefer to visit Kufri during winters to experience and enjoy the skiing and tobogganing along its snow clad mountainous slopes. Exquisite nature parks and scenic spots in the backdrop of natural settings are prime attractions in Kufri.

Kufri is a summer resort away from the busy life of urbanized regions. Those who seek secluded vacation in a cool and pleasant ambiance, picturesque environs and re-

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gions offering challenging and adventurous activities can opt for travel to Kufri. Tourists can enjoy the majestic panoramic views of the verdant valley and the snow clad foothills of Himalayas. A horseback ride to explore the awesome hilly regions is an experience not to miss. Hiking and trekking through lusting green dense forests surrounding

Adventurous travelers prefer to visit Kufri during winters to experience and enjoy the skiing and tobogganing along its snow clad mountainous slopes.

Exquisite nature parks and scenic spots in the backdrop of natural settings are prime attractions in Kufri.

May 9, 2014

Kufri are really challenging.

Popular spots to visit in and around Kufri are The Himalayan Nature Park and Indira Tourist Park. Kufri comes alive during the winter season when a number of skiing enthusiasts visit this place. Winter sports festival in February is a major draw. To make your holiday more exciting, also include Manali tour package in HP. ATTRACTIONS Fagu: Fagu is a small place located around 23 kms from Shimla and 6 kms from Kufri. It is famous for its scenic views. It is a day excursion from Kufri and serves as a base camp for trekkers, campers and naturalists.

Just above Fagu there are a few temples dedicated to the local god - Banthia devta that tourists can visit. The intrinsic wooden carving on the walls of these temples depicts the great craftsmanship of the Himachali people.

Indira Tourist Park: Located close to the Himalayan National Park, Indira Tourist Park is known for striking views of the Himalayas. Pleasant climate, calm ambiance and a charming coffee shop, called CafĂŠ Lalit of Himachal Tourism board are the main attractions of the park.

Indira Tourist Park is around 19 kms from Shimla and 6 kms from Fagu and it is easily accessible from all parts of the state.

Cont’d on page 42

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KUFRI

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Skiing, trekking & hiking amid picturesque trails

Cont’d from page 41

The Himalayan Nature Park: The Himalayan National Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh.

Boasting of 180 species of birds and rare mammals, the national park is a great bio-diversity and eco tourism hub. Tourists can look forward to see musk

deer and the elusive snow leopards, besides rare and endangered species of plants and animals.

Horse Riding: Horse riding is one of the most popular activity tourists can enjoy here. This is not only a leisure but to reach some places horses are the sole

means of travel. While in Kufri horse riding is a must in order to explore the highland. Starting from the base of Himalayan National Park, tourists can enjoy a visit to the apple orchards and temples. If you are lucky to visit on a clear evening, the mesmerizing sunset at the Himalayan ranges can also be enjoyed.

Skiing: Skiing in Kufri is a highly entertaining adventurous sport beckoning the adventurous tourists to partici-

pate.

In winter, thousands of travelers flock to Mahasu Bridge in Kufri for skiing in the snow capped slopes.

Tobogganing: This is an up-

coming sport that can be enjoyed on the snow slopes of mountains at Kufri. The powdery snow peaks in Kufri are ideal for this adventure. Tobogganing is nothing but a revised form of sledging where simple sledges (contrary to the skis and sleds that have runners attached to them) ride directly on snow.

Trekking: Trekking is a wonderful way to discover the beauty of nature that cannot be visited by any other means. There are no expert crafted trekking tours in Kufri and tourists can very much explore these areas on their own. The most common trekking route in Kufri is to reach Kufri from Shimla, which is 19 kms away.

Best time to visit: The best season to visit Kufri is from March to November.

HOW TO REACH

By Train: The nearest railhead is at Shimla in narrow gauge rail route and broad gauge railway station is at Kalka (100 km).

By Air: The nearest airport to Kufri is Jubbarbhatti near Shimla, at a distance of about 13 km.

Regular flight is available from this airport to Delhi.

By Bus: Buses link Kufri with Shimla, Narkanda and Rampur.

State owned transport buses and private deluxe buses are available from Shimla to Kufri.

May 9, 2014

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Goa to promote Ayurveda, Yoga tourism PANAJI: Goa will promote itself as a centre for wellness and Yoga tourism to attract travelers during the monsoon season from the Middle East at the forthcoming Arabian Travel Market (ATM) event to be held in Dubai.

"You can't sell beaches to them during monsoon. We will promote wellness, Ayurveda and Yoga tourism," said Nikhil Desai, Managing Director, Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), a head of his visit to the ATM. Arabian Travel Market is the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East for inbound and outbound tourism professionals from across the globe. ATM 2014 is scheduled to be held during May 5 to 8, 2014.

A huge contingent of travel agents and hoteliers will also par-

ticipate to promote Goa at the ATM, where it has its own stall.

"Months from June to September, when tourism is lean, can be promoted amongst the West Asian countries and

Blue dome in Atlanta skyline to reopen June 10 ATLANTA: Managers of the Hyatt Regency Atlanta have set June 10 as the date to reopen a landmark blue dome that once dominated Atlanta's skyline.

Polaris, the futuristic flying saucershaped restaurant and lounge atop the 22-story hotel, opened in 1967.

Its blue bubble-shaped top lit up the night sky and became a prominent symbol of downtown Atlanta in postcards and other

images of the city's skyline, but has been vacant since 2004.

Hotel General Manager Peter McMahon said that when it reopens, Polaris will feature a bar that slowly rotates to give guests a panoramic view of the city.

The Hyatt Regency was Atlanta's first major hotel built downtown since the 1920s. Architects say its expansive atrium was the first of its kind. -AP

Jordan and Iranian tourists, who look out for cooler locations when the scorching sun burns their region," Desai said.

Desai said these travelers look towards Scotland or Kerala in India as they love rains.

"We want to attract this segment of tourists, who also include expatriates," he said, adding that Goa has been a mid-haul destination for these travelers, who don't mind coming here on the weekends.

Goa, which usually witnesses peak tourist season post- September, also has hotels offering attractive packages during monsoon.

"Occupancy in five-star hotels in Goa is 60 per cent during monsoon, and is 50 per cent in other hotels," Desai added. -PTI

5 free things for visitors in Birmingham, Alabama BIRMINGHAM, Ala.: Alabama's largest city is making a comeback after decades of dormancy, and there's plenty of free stuff for visitors to see and do in the new Birmingham.

Re-energized by a wave of fresh development and the emergence of a true downtown vibe, the city once called the ``Pittsburgh of the South'' for its steel industry is now varied enough for a family trip or a weekend getaway for couple.

Interested in history or the arts? How about a tour of a worldwide broadcasting operation?

Birmingham has that and more.

Civil Rights District Visitors interested in civil rights history can pay tribute to the era on a pilgrimage to sites where headlines were made. Walk along streets where police and firefighters used dogs and fire hoses to rout black demonstrators seeking equality in 1963.

Stand at the spot where a Ku Klux Klan bomb went off that same year, killing four black girls inside 16th Street Baptist Church. Across from the church, sit in Kelly Ingram Park, where statues depict compelling

Goa tourism mascots to be launched soon PANAJI: Two mascots of Goa tourism, which are being developed to spread social awareness messages among tourists against problems like drugs and pedophilia, would soon be unveiled.

The mascots would be launched during the 'Coconut and Cashew Festival 2014' which would be held from May 21-25, Goa tourism director Nikhil Desai said.

The state tourism department has for the first time put up this festival which will display various uses and products of two of these most important nuts of Goan life - cashew and coconut.

The concept of the mascot has been brought about to ensure that social awareness messages against drugs, pedophilia, overcharging, about cleanliness and other issues can reach the tourists, Desai said. -PTI

scenes from the city's civil rights struggles.

Birmingham Museum of Art Billing itself as one the nation's best regional museums, the Birmingham Museum of Art houses more than 25,000 drawings, paintings, prints, sculptures and decorative pieces from all over the world. Its painting collection includes Albert Bierstadt's ``Looking Down Yosemite Valley,'' selected by The National Endowment for the Humanities as one of 40 American masterpieces.

Railroad Park Once a trash-strewn empty lot

beside train tracks, Railroad Park opened in 2010 and quickly became a favorite gathering spot.

With features including ponds, a wetlands area, a walking track and a natural amphitheater, the 19-acre (8-hectare) park is a perfect spot to spend a few hours watching people or reading a book.

Eternal Word Television Network

Located minutes from downtown in tree-covered Irondale, Eternal Word Television Network offers weekday tours of what it calls the world's largest religious media operation. Founded by an enterprising nun, the operation is geared toward Catholics, but anyone can see the studios and control rooms that are used to beam shows to more than 150 million TV households worldwide. The opulent Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament and Monastery is located on 400 acres (162 hectares) about a onehour drive away.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens With 67 acres (27 hectares) of land and more than two dozen unique gardens, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens is one of the most-visited free attractions in Alabama. There are roses for flower fans, a Japanese garden for Asian enthusiasts

and a vegetable garden lush enough to make any home gardener green with envy. -AP

In Brief Cubans who landed in Keys settling in US CORAL GABLES, Fla.: Twentythree Cubans who fled the island on a raft are settling into life in the U.S. after making it safely to the Florida Keys.

The Cubans left early Sunday, April 27, and arrived 18 hours later in the Marquesas Keys.

Twenty-two of the migrants were adult men, and one was a woman. A fisherman spotted them on land and alerted the Coast Guard.

Cubans who arrive in the U.S. are generally allowed to stay under the ``Wet-foot, Dry-foot'' policy, while those stopped at sea are usually returned home.

Thirty-five-year-old Leodan Cruz said he and other migrants embraced and shouted ``Liberty!'' when they made it to shore.

The nonprofit Church World Service organization is helping the migrants process their paperwork and resettle in other parts of the United States. -AP

„ Pak summons Indian diplomat over visa denial ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner Gopal Baghlay to lodge a protest over denial of visas to some 500 Pakistani pilgrims to visit the famed shrine of Hazrat Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti at Ajmer.

Visits to religious shrines in Pakistan and India are governed under the Bilateral Protocol on Visits to the Religious Shrines, 1974.

Pakistan conveyed its "deep disappointment and concern" over refusal by the Indian government to issue visas to the pilgrims, a statement released by the Foreign Office said.

This is the fourth time that visas have been denied to Pakistani pilgrims in the past one year, it said.

"This is not only against the bilateral agreement, but also runs contrary to the efforts towards normalizing ties between the two countries and the spirit of peopleto-people contacts," the Ministry said.

Foreign Office sources here told PTI that India has officially intimated that as general elections are being held in the country, it would be difficult to host the pilgrims.

Reached for comments, Foreign Office spokesperson Tasnim Aslam told PTI: "Our High Commission in New Delhi has the information that Rajasthan government has no problems in hosting the pilgrims." -PTI

Immigration

Naturalized American wins Boston Marathon

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Details on page 46

Immigration legislation is showing faint glimmers of life WASHINGTON: Advocates for immigrants living in the U.S. illegally are mounting a final push to persuade the House to pass immigration legislation this summer, seeing one last window to act that will soon slam shut for good.

If they don't succeed by August, most say any chance of legislation will be over for the year, and all eyes will be on President Barack Obama to see if he acts on his own to curb deportations and accommodate some of the 11.5 million people here illegally.

The renewed focus on the GOPled House comes amid chatter that immigration legislation - all but left for dead at the beginning of this year - is showing faint glimmers of life. Advocates point to recent comments by a handful of House Republicans, among them Speaker John Boehner, indicating an interest in getting it done.

Meanwhile Rep. Mario DiazBalart, R-Fla., the leading proponent on the Republican side, has been trying to sell fellow Republicans on legislation he's drafted that deals with enforcement of the laws and a legal status for those without one. He contends that after years of trying he's struck a balance that can bring both sides on

board. ``I think we finally have it right which is why I feel more optimistic than ever,'' Diaz-Balart said.

Advocates note that midterm election primaries will largely be over by the end of June, freeing some House Republicans from the

House Republicans who might support overhaul efforts, or at least not publicly oppose them, with the aim of creating a swell of support that would allow Boehner the space he needs to act. Some outside lobbyists say they can count scores of House Republi-

Immigration reform advocates protest outside a fundraiser hosted by U.S. Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-OH), on April 7, in New York City.

Boehner has blocked bi-partisan immigration reform legislation, passed by the Senate last year and supported by President Barack Obama, from reaching a vote in the House of Representatives.

threat of a challenge from the right and perhaps liberating them to deal with a contentious issue like immigration.

Business lobbyists and others say they are now aiming to elevate pressure on individual

cans who would be with them.

The activity comes 10 months after the Senate passed bipartisan legislation with billions for border security, new visa programs to bring workers to the U.S., and a path to citizenship for the millions

now here illegally. There is widespread agreement within the Republican establishment that the immigration issue has become a political drag on the GOP because of how it alienates Latinos, a fastgrowing voter bloc. A wide-ranging coalition consisting of business groups, farmers, religious leaders, labor unions and others is pushing for reform.

But the same factors that have made immigration legislation a challenge from the beginning haven't changed. For many individual House Republicans who represent largely white districts, there remains scant political imperative to act. And there is a small but vocal contingent among Republicans who oppose any effort at reform, and, egged on by some outside conservatives such as radio host Laura Ingraham, have vowed to take any step possible to oppose it.

The outsize sway of this small group was demonstrated recently when it mobilized against efforts

by Rep. Jeff Denham, R-Calif., to advance legislation allowing eventual citizenship for people brought illegally to the country as youths who serve in the military.

Cont'd on Page 46

Biden: Immigration crucial to American innovation MIAMI: Vice President Joe Biden extolled immigration as crucial to American innovation at a college graduation ceremony in South Florida.

The Miami Dade College graduates from two campuses and their families, 2,000 strong, cheered as a procession of 39 flags from their home countries, entered the gym and opened the program. Biden acknowledged that he was addressing many immigrants and the children and grandchildren of immigrants, many from South America and the Caribbean.

Biden said a ``constant, substantial stream of immigrants'' is important to the American

economy, urging citizenship for immigrants living in the U.S. illegally. ``That's why we have to act to bring 11 million people out of the

shadows and put them on a path to citizenship,'' Biden said. ``These people are already Americans.''

When someone in the crowd

Vice President Joe Biden, center, smiles after arriving for a graduation ceremony at the Miami Dade College in Miami, Saturday, May 3

shouted ``Stop deportations!'' he replied, ``We'll do that, too, kid, but let me finish my speech.''

Biden also applauded the Florida Legislature for passing a bill to allow students living in the country illegally to pay instate tuition at the public colleges and universities. Florida is the latest of 20 states to enact such a measure, and its passage marks a significant shift in the immigration debate in Florida away from a focus on immigration enforcement. ``More than half of you speak a language other than English at home, but you speak the language of America,'' Biden said.-AP

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Legislative session ends with bipartisan spirit TALLAHASSEE, Fla.: The Florida Legislature began its 2014 session by getting tougher on sexual predators and ended by getting softer on immigration issues.

In between, lawmakers largely had a feel-good session that will provide tax cuts, legalize low-THC medical marijuana, help members of the military get degrees and jobs and possibly raise the speed limit on highways to 75 mph. ``It was a whirlwind but it ended right. It was the best ending I've seen,'' Republican Rep. Jose Felix Diaz, of Miami, said after the 60day session. ``We accomplished everything we said we'd accomplish.''

Of course, legislative sessions are always easier when there's plenty of money, and the Legislature had a lot to work with as they passed a record $77.1 billion budget. And in an election year, lawmakers tend to get along a lot bet-

ter, and there was a bipartisan spirit in many of the bills that were passed.

Gov. Rick Scott kept a low profile for much of the session, but he'll get to brag about cutting motor vehicle registration fees and other tax breaks. He'll also be able to woo Hispanic voters by supporting in-state college tuition for youth in the country illegally and a bill that will let a non-citizen from Mexico get his law license. ``It's an election year so they embraced a lot of Democratic principles. That made it a little better,'' said Senate Democratic Leader Chris Smith, of Fort Lauderdale, who lamented that the Legislature didn't expand Medicaid or make changes to the ``stand your ground'' law. The law came under scrutiny after Trayvon Martin was fatally shot by neighborhood watch volunteer George Zimmerman.

Some of the bills lawmakers

passed would have been unthinkable in recent years - especially in the tea party year that swept Scott to victory in 2010.

Scott has previously taken a hard line against immigration issues, campaigning in support of an Arizona-like measure on illegal immigrants and last year vetoing

``It's an election year so they embraced a lot of Democratic principles. That made it a little better,'' said Senate Democratic Leader Chris Smith, of Fort Lauderdale, who lamented that the Legislature didn't expand Medicaid or make changes to the ``stand your ground'' law. a bill that would have allowed temporary licenses for young immigrants in the country unlawfully.

He even previously came out against in-state tuition for non-citizens who were brought to the

Vermont House approves collecting profiling data MONTPELIER, Vt.: After about 90 minutes of impassioned debate about alleged racial profiling by police, the Vermont House advanced legislation to collect data statewide on the race of people pulled over in traffic stops.

Rep. Bill Lippert, D-Hinesburg and chairman of the Judiciary Committee, said the state police and several departments around Burlington already have ``biasfree policing'' policies. ``It is not OK for someone to travel in one part of Vermont and to fear being racially profiled because that part of Vermont does not have law enforcement policies that are consistent with bias-free policing,'' Lippert said.

Perceived bias in Vermont's criminal justice system has been an issue for years. Rep. Kesha Ram, D-Burlington, said AfricanAmerican men make up less than 1 percent of Vermont's population, but about 13 percent of its prisoners.

Republican Rep. Douglas Gage of Rutland told his colleagues he teaches at a prison, and that none of the black inmates had ever complained to him that they had been racially profiled. ``Collecting data on this will put one more burden on local police officers ... especially during an emergency response,'' Gage said.

But others argued it was nec-

essary to collect data on roadside stops to see whether the training against bias police officers are receiving is having the desired effect. ``You can't have training and

Rep. Bill Lippert

policies in place and then have no way to (know) if they're working,'' Ram said.

Lippert said Vermont passed a law calling for police officers statewide to be trained in racial sensitivity, but that compliance had not been consistent and that no one was currently responsible for ensuring the policies are put in place and followed. The bill would put that responsibility on the state

country as minors.

But he now vows to sign a bill that will do just that. And he'll also sign a bill that will let a Mexicanborn immigrant in the country illegally to a law license. ``It doesn't matter what country you're born in, what family or what zip code, you will have your

Criminal Justice Training Council.

The new bill would require all police departments to follow biasfree policies substantially similar to those used by the Vermont State Police and recommended by the attorney general's office.

The bill would be a win for the advocacy group Migrant Justice, which represents immigrant farmworkers in Vermont.

The group had argued for adopting the state police policy, rather than one adopted by a state oversight board, because the police version calls on officers to not automatically assume that people who appear to be Latino should have their immigration status checked, unless they're found engaging in criminal behavior.

The bill also called for new standards in conducting investigative line-ups for eyewitnesses to identify perpetrators, and for police to make audio recordings of interviews when they have a suspect in custody in a homicide or sexual assault investigation. -AP

shot to live the American dream,'' Scott said after the session ended.

Scott already signed into law bills that will get tough on sexual predators. On the first day of session, lawmakers cited the death of 8-year-old Cherish Perrywinkle, of Jacksonville, when supporting a bill that closes loopholes in a law that allows for the psychiatric review and civil commitment of sexually violent offenders even after they finish their prison sentences.

On the last day of session, another girl was mentioned as the inspiration for a bill that allows the

use of low-THC marijuana to treat epilepsy and cancer patients.

RayAnn Moseley, an 11-year-old girl who has up to 300 seizures a week, won the hearts of many skeptical lawmakers. Her parents hope to use the non-euphoric strain of marijuana to reduce her seizures. Supporters say it has worked to help children in Colorado. Scott said he will sign the bill. ``It was the most bipartisan effort on most issues that we've seen in a long time,'' said Democratic Rep. Alan Williams, of Tallahassee. ``I think this session, unlike most, we had some very good relationships.''

Among other items that passed were an abortion bill that bans the procedure if a doctor determines a fetus can survive outside the womb, a measure that creates a mandatory 50-year prison sentence for child rapists, a bill that allows people to fire warning shots without facing mandatory sentences under gun laws and an overhaul of the child welfare system. ``It was probably the most successful session I've been in a long time,'' said Sen. John Thrasher, who served as House speaker for two years ending in 2000. ``Most of everything we passed was good public policy.'' -AP

ETS no longer providing TOEFL tests for UK visa NEW DELHI: Dealing a blow to many visa aspirants especially students, British authorities have said global testing giant ETS will no longer offer TOEFL and TOEIC tests for UK visa-granting purposes, in the wake of a recent controversy.

Following allegations in a BBC program in February this year that fraudulent measures were adopted by candidates to obtain Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) accreditation, the British Home Office has announced that its contract with the global testing giant - Education Testing Service (ETS) - will not be extended.

As per the UK Council for International Student Affairs' official website, "ETS is no longer providing TOEIC and TOEFL tests for people who want to use them in support of UK immigration applications. This is because of allegations of fraud."

"The Home Office has been investigating the allegations of

fraud and decided that in future it will change the list of English language test certificates that are acceptable in support of UK immigration applications. So that ETS tests are not included," it said.

The ETS has confirmed this news on its Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) website.

"Following the broadcast of a BBC Panorama program in February 2014 which highlighted an organized element seeking to circumvent the UK's visa-granting process, ETS has made the decision not to extend our Secure English-language Testing (SELT) license with the Home Office. As a result, TOEIC and TOEFL iBT testing will no longer be offered for UK visa-granting purposes," ETS said in a statement on its website.

However, the organization said, "The fraud uncovered by the BBC program was limited to TOEIC testing", and the security of TOEFL was not questioned. -PTI

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Naturalized American wins Boston Marathon CYRUS D. MEHTA

A

pril 21 was a day to celebrate. One year after the devastating bombings at the Boston Marathon, Meb Keflezighi won the Boston marathon. Keflezighi is a naturalized American. "I'm blessed to be an American and God bless America and God bless Boston for this special day," Keflezighi said.

This victory resonates much stronger as it comes one year after the horrific bombs resulted in 3 deaths and over 260 injured. The surviving bombing suspect, Dzhokar Tsarnaev, is also a naturalized American. His brother, Tamerlan Tsarnaev, who got killed in the shootout last year, unsuccessfully tried to naturalize.

In the immediate aftermath of

last year's bombings, Senator Grassley cynically attempted to tie the Boston marathon attacks to immigration reform. "We appreciate this opportunity to talk about immigration reform in light of all that has been happening in Massachusetts," said Senator Grassley. Fortunately, the Senate immigration reform bill, S. 744, still got passed, but it included provisions that would make it more difficult for people to get registered provisional status depending on their country of origin as a result of additional security screening, and another provision would lead to the revocation of asylum or refugee status if the person visited his or her country of persecution without good cause.

Today, after Keflezighi's spectacular win, against all odds, no one can and should link immigrants to terrorism. Most immigrants are like Keflezighi, who as-

The urgency to reform our broken immigration system is felt more so today when we can be attracting many more Mebs who will not only excel in sports, but also in scientific achievements

Immigration legislation is showing faint glimmers of life Cont'd from Page 44

Boehner has shown little appetite for standing down this faction, instead swiftly retreating after he made comments mocking House Republicans for being reluctant to act on immigration because it was too hard.

Rep. Raul Labrador, R-Idaho, a

leading conservative voice on immigration, said ``there would be a civil war'' if Boehner tried to move immigration. A House leadership aide said there were no plans for floor action this summer.

Meanwhile, Obama has come under intense pressure to address the issue through executive action, and his Homeland Security

Fla tuition bill signals immigration debate shift MIAMI: Florida will allow students in the country illegally to pay in-state tuition at the state's public colleges and universities, making it the latest of 20 states to enact such a measure.

The final version of the bill highlights a significant shift in the immigration debate at the state level. Advocates in Florida have pushed for in-state tuition for youth whose parents brought them to the country il-

legally for nearly a decade, to no avail. Just three years ago, the majority of bills proposed by Florida lawmakers and those nationwide focused on enforcement.

Four years ago, many legislatures were considering proposals based on Arizona laws that enabled local law-enforcement agencies to check the immigration status of anyone they suspected of being in the country illegally. -AP

Department is conducting a review that could result in steps to soften the administration's deportations policy.

Advocates have hoped for some initial steps within coming weeks, although nothing major is expected until it becomes clear Boehner can't or won't act. If he doesn't act by August at latest, attention will turn squarely to the administration for relief.

In a meeting with Asian advocates and others, Obama made clear that the focus must be on Congress for now, said Rep. Judy Chu, D-Calif., who attended.

Still, some advocates are more hopeful now than they were earlier this year after Boehner released a set of principles meant to guide action in the House, only to quickly abandon them after an unenthusiastic response from fellow Republicans. ``The people who want to do this just need to take a deep breath and do it,'' said Galen Carey, vice president of government relations at the National Association of Evangelicals, which brought more than 250 pastors to Capitol Hill to lobby for reform. -AP

pire success for themselves and their families. This is the story of immigration, which is also an Americans story, told over and over again.

Even after the 9/11 attacks, and despite the unfortunate profiling of immigrants from certain countries in the immediate aftermath, immigrants still won. Although immigration benefits, including obtaining a green card through a marriage with a US citizen, are now viewed through the prism of national security, the immigration system was never radically altered.

There was no diminishing of the already meager quotas, and immigrants still came and continue to come to America to make it richer and more diverse.

In this context, Keflezighi's win is most powerful. An American, who was born in Eritrea, has won the Boston marathon after Lisa

Larsen Weidenbach won in 1985 and Greg Meyer in 1983. While an immigrant has won for America today, millions of immigrants, through their achievements big and small, win for America all the time.

The urgency to reform our broken immigration system is felt more so today when we can be attracting many more Mebs who will not only excel in sports, but also in scientific achievements and creating innovative companies. The marathon began last year when the Senate deliberated on and passed a comprehensive immigration reform bill. When will the House joins the race to reach the finishing line and help us all win big time for America? * Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com

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

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Civil & Criminal Litigation Felonies, Misdemeanors, Inc DUI 1 Personal Injury, Business, Divorce etc.

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2335 W. Devon Ave., Suite 204, Tel: 773-381-1820 Chicago, IL 60659

May 9, 2014

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48 India Post

A

ctress-turned-singer Priyanka Chopra says she would love to do Hindi playback singing in her own films.

"I do plan to do that in my next few films.

I would love to do playback singing. All my singles are in English and I would love to sing in Hindi as well. We are trying to work something out and you will soon hear it. I

www.indiapost.com

May 9, 2014

want to portray a depressed and sad girl but rather someone who has moved on from a broken relationship.

"When we are young we had a favorite song for every situation. This song was my heartbreak song. This is one of the songs which gives a vibe that I am in pain but I will still survive it.

"When we a see a video of any heart-

Priyanka Chopra performs 'I can't make you love me' during the launch of her new music video in Mumbai on May 5

have always believed to push the envelope and try to do something different," Priyanka said.

Ask her if she is happy with the way her singing career is shaping up, Priyanka says, "I never thought I would become a

singer but music was something that I have known even before I came into films. I really loved music and singing. I would often accompany my father when he performed on stage and he would always dedicate a song to me. I grew up with a lot of music."

Priyanka released her third single 'I Can't Make You Love Me'. This is her third single as a singer after 'In My City' and 'Exotic' with Pitbull.

She says the song is inspired by Bonnie Rait's classic track of the same name, which released in 1991. While Rait's version was a soft love ballad, Priyanka's cover version is an electronic number fused with fastpaced and pop beats.

The video of the song explores moments from a one-sided romantic relationship, which is on the rocks.

"I wanted the third song to be a solo single and we were deciding on which song should we go with. There were some really great songs but I felt an instant connect with this song. It's a special song for me, since it's a cover of Bonnie Raitt's ballad that has been done by several great artistes in the past. I remember singing this song when I was a kid," Priyanka said.

Through this single, Priyanka did not

break songs, we normally see that the girl is always depressed and sad but when we decided to shoot the video, I decided that it should be about a girl who is talking about her freedom and moving on rather than crying over a broken relationship," she said.

P

riyanka says she does not mind if there is a biopic on her life, but wants it to made at the right time.

Aseem Merchant, rumored to be Priyanka's friend during her modeling days, is reportedly planning to make a movie on her.

Aseem, who was last seen in a small role in Salman Khan starrer 'Wanted', is turning producer with this biopic on Priyanka.

"It is mind-blowing to hear that I have become so big that people are making a film on my life. Jokes apart, I don't think I have become so big that people would make a film on me," Priyanka, 31, said at an event.

"I really haven't heard about if someone is doing it. There are a lot of things that I

Apparently, he targeted Priyanka over non-payment of dues and insisted that the actress owed him money.

On this, Priyanka says, "It would be extremely flattering for me if someone would make a biopic on my life, but this particular situation makes me very angry as I know what my family and I went through during that phase of our lives and what upsets me is that people want

BIOPIC ON HER LIFE

Priyanka Chopra with Mary Kom

still need to achieve. Maybe when I turn 40, people can decide to make a film because I am sure I will achieve whatever I want to by that age," she added.

There is buzz that the film will focus on Priyanka's days as a model and also talk about her legal battle with her ex-manager Prakash Jaju.

Prakash had served over two months in jail on allegations of cheating the actress.

to glorify something which was a painful part in my life.

I think it's extremely disturbing."

Priyanka is currently doing a biopic on ace Indian boxer Mary Kom. "I am doing a biopic on Mary Kom's life and she has sat with me on every scene that I have shot and has told me her emotions that she felt during a particular situation," the actress said.

India Post 49

May 9, 2014 www.indiapost.com

Bollywood finds a star Sexy new villains M from Canada ove over Mogambo and Shakaal. Gone are the

India Post News Service

F

ollowing a nationwide search for Canada's best performers, 25-year-old Simran Sidhu of Surrey was crowned the winner of Bollywood Star on OMNI Television. Sidhu's stunning performances during the competition's Indian leg dazzled

industry experts and led her to the ultimate prize: a Bollywood film role.

The series saw hundreds of Bollywood hopefuls attend opencall auditions in Vancouver and Toronto, where the top 16 were selected to compete in a semifinal round in Toronto. The competition was then reduced to six finalists who were flown to Mumbai to battle for fame at a Bollywood boot camp.

"The journey to becoming Canada's first Bollywood Star has afforded me with opportunities I never believed were possible," said Sidhu, winner, OMNI Television's Bollywood Star.

"Through this experience, I have absorbed valuable knowledge and advice from my peers, the judges, and ex-

perts in India, and can't wait to explore my talent in a Bollywood film." In the season finale, the four remaining competitors traveled

Audition in Goa

from Mumbai to Goa, where they gave a final audition before renowned Bollywood director Nishikant Kamat.

Born in Abu Dhabi, Sidhu relocated to Surrey ten years ago. As a member of Shiamak Davar's Vancouver dance team, Sidhu has performed at the 2011 IIFA Awards in Toronto, and the 2013 TOIFA Awards in Vancouver. In her spare time, Sidhu teaches dance to disabled individuals through Shiamak's Victory Arts Foundation.

Simran Sidhu

New Hampshire student art exhibit opens PETERBOROUGH, N.H.: An exhibit designed to strengthen the artistic development of New Hampshire high school students is now open at the New Hampshire Institute of Art's Sharon Arts Center.

The exhibit features the work of students from across the state who were asked to submit drawings, paintings, photographs and other art. The goal was to give young artists experience with the process of preparing work and submitting it for a juried show.

Participants are eligible for

cash prizes, and the New Hampshire Institute of Art will award $1,500 to a graduating senior.

The exhibition runs through June 14 at the arts center in Peterborough. -AP

some of our sexiest and the most unconventional people playing

days when you could see a villain and recognize that he was the bad guy. While some of our biggest stars have played a bad man in the past, be it Shah Rukh Khan in Baazigar or Darr, Sanjay Dutt in Khalnayak or Sidharth Malhotra Agneepath, Saif Ali Khan in Omkara or Hrithik villain, be it Vivek Oberoi in Roshan in Dhoom 2, what is in- Krrish 3, Bipasha Basu in Raaz 3 teresting is that today, we have or Shilpa Shukla in B.A. Pass.

This year, we will see one of India's young heart-throbs S i d h a r t h Malhotra play the dark guy in Ek Villain, the most suave Karan Johar playing villain in Bombay Velvet and even rockstar Yo Yo Honey Singh, who is playing the bad guy in The Xpose. Well, one thing seems certain, it's not just sexy people, but it now seems to be sexy to turn 'VilYo Yo Honey Singh lain'.

Datebook

50 India Post

NEW JERSEY Upcoming Sun, May 10 • DR.Gurudeva-indian astrologer, jyotish Venue: 108 Cedar lane, Highland Park, New Jersey - 08904 Contact: (732)4480667

Sat, May 10 • Sonu Nigam Close To My Soul - NJ Venue:Sun National Bank Center, 81 Hamilton Ave. at Rt. 129, Trenton, NJ 08611 Time: 8:00 pm Contact: 718-639-9200

Sun, May 11 • Karthikudan Oru maalai ilaveyil Neram Venue: Montgomery High School, 1016 Route 601,, Skillman, NJ 08558 Time: 3: 00 pm

NEW YORK Upcoming Fri, May 9 • The Gundecha Brothers Venue: Helen Mills Theater, 137-139 West 26th Street,Between 6th & 7th Avenues, New York, NY 10001 Time : 7:00 pm Contact : 718-246-2493

Sun, May 17 • Sonu Nigam Close To My Soul Venue: Nassau Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale, NY 11553 Time: 08:00 pm Contact: 718-639-9200

Sat, May 17 • A Bollywood Summer Cruise 2014 Venue: New York Sky Port and Aviation Marina, 2430 FDR Dr, New York, NY 10010 Time: 06:15 pm Contact : 917-771-9030

May 9, 2014

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NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Upcoming

Upcoming

Sat, May 10 • SIFA 2014 sponsor membership Venue: South India Fine Arts - CA,, P.O.Box 2544, Cupertino, CA 95015 Time : 11:55 pm

Fri, May 16 • Amjad Sabri Live In Concert Bay Area Venue: Chandni Restaurant, 5748 Mowry School Road, Newark, CA 94560 Time: 7 pm Contact: 408-881-4501

Sun, May 25 • USA Sangams 22nd National Convention Awards Night Venue: SDES HALL, 30846 Watkins St, Union City, CA 94587 Time: 7:00 pm Contact: 510-688-0878

June 5th to 8th • Bombay Jayashree And Shubha Mudgal Live In Bay Area

Upcoming

Sat, May 17 • Marriage Fixing - A Play in Hindi

Mukund Hindi Classes are held

Venue: Sunnyvale Hindu temple, 450

Month

Persian Dr, Sunnyvale, CA 94089

Chicago Satsang Information:

Time: 7:00 pm

J K Yog, Chicago - Swami Mukundananda

Contact: 510-565-9518

Venue: Clarion Inn/Waterford Banquets,

• J K Yog Satsang and Bal every 2nd and 4rth Sunday of

Board Room, 933 South Riverside

Sun, May 18 • IFDA Spring Fest

Drive, Elmhurst, IL 60126

Venue: Silver Creek High Auditorium,

Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok

3434 Silver Creek Rd, San Jose, CA 95121

@ 630-561-4807

Time: 3:30 pm

Website: www.jkyog.org

Time: 3:30pm-5:30pm

Contact: 408-238-4034

ATLANTA Upcoming Sun, May 3 • Munni Begum Live In Concert Venue: Atlanta Event Hall, 3750 Venture Dr, Duluth, GA 30096 Time: 9:00 pm

1st and 3rd Sunday of Month • Chicago Children's Bal Mukund Character Building Program and Hindi Literacy Classes Venue: Vogelei Center, 650 W. Higgins Road, Hoffmann Estates, IL 60192 (Next to Nissan Dealership) Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @

Venue: Sunnyvale Hindu temple, 450 Persian Dr, Sunnyvale, CA 94089

Sat, May 10 • Shilanyas Pooja

Time: 6 pm Contact: 510-305-9285

Peachtree Blvd, Sugar Hill, GA 30518

June 5th to 8th • Bombay Jayashree And

ILLINOIS

630-561-4807 Website: www.jkyog.org/bal-mukund

Venue: Shiv Mandir of Atlanta, 890 Time: 10:00 am Contact: 408-840-0214

Mondays and Fridays • Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes

Shubha Mudgal Live In Bay Area

Fri, May 23 • An Evening Of Global Music

Where: Metropolitan Asian Family

Venue: Sunnyvale Hindu temple, 450 Per-

Venue: Berkmar High School, 405

Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL,

sian Dr, Sunnyvale, CA 94089 Contact: 510-305-9285

Pleasant Hill Road, Lilburn, GA 30047

Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm

Time: 7:30pm

Services

Contact: 773-465-3105

Horoscope

May 9, 2014

India Post

51

www.indiapost.com

Your Weekly Future

by Pandit Parashar

MAY 9 TH - MAY 15 TH , 2014 (March 21 to April 20)

M

ind will be full of bright ideas and you will start working on them quickly. Suddenly you will become very diplomatic and convey all messages across comfortably. Just be very careful when signing any contract or important papers. You may do some serious shopping for your self and discard old cloths. Party will be entertaining.

(September 23 to October 22)

M

eeting with government official will go well and you will get the clearance quick. Spouse may discuss about getting some remodeling done inside the house. Some of you may also appear for a highly competitive exam this week. You may have concerns about upcoming major changes at work and may start looking for another one.

(October 23 to November 22)

(April 21 to May 20)

S

udden success will change your mind and attitude. Any investment made this week can turn very profitable before this year ends. You will cut down on many unnecessary expenses chewing up your reserves. Do not hesitate to play a couple of lottery tickets this week. You will plan an exciting outing with children this week.

Y

ou will plan something interesting with children this week. Strong planets will help those looking for a change in career since the beginning of 2014. Some one lot younger and female will give some useful tips and leads. You will need to either sign some legal papers or spend money on little repairs to your vehicle.

(November 23 to December 22)

(May 21 to June 20)

D

ecisions will be wise and the right ones but still you will lack confidence and may feel little shaky inside. Confidence is what can bring big changes in life starting soon. You may be taking a short trip to attend an important meeting. Changes and cutting down on quantity will bring desired results and improvement in health.

Y

ou will need to take all important decisions your self as help you were banking on will be hard to reach. Any changes now will soon prove to be blessings in disguise. Money wise you will continue to be safe even after paying big old bills. Some one close is getting ready to move out and away from your contact.

(June 21 to July 22)

T

hings will get little exciting and the package offered will come with lucrative incentives. Value of your stocks will appreciate suddenly. A big check will also show up in the mail. After exchanging more paper work, the property deal can also reach this week. Some of you may also finalize an overseas trip to visit siblings or close friend.

(December 22 to January 19)

E

xalted Venus in third will do the much awaited and necessary magic. A trip this week will become beneficial in many ways.

You will find new friends and lead to a great opportunity. An older family member will need extra care. Spouse will do the best in hiding emotions about these recent positive developments.

(July 23 to August 22)

S

ome one younger will be helpful and give practical ideas. You may be looking to obtain a big loan or line of credit for deal in making. You may also develop taste for hot and spicy food and take family out to an exclusive place this week. Big payment expected will get little delayed. You may be in touch with a wise man for some advise.

(January 20 to February 18)

S

trong Venus in second is a sure sign of big money without making any efforts. Take your chance and rewards will come quick. Thing you had been looking for will be found in very close circle with the help of another relative. See if you can cut down on hot and spicy food for just next few weeks to reduce the problem.

(August 23 to September 22)

A

long distance trip is in the air. Money will come in plenty but will go towards commitments made last year. Chances of find ing an ideal soul mate strong for bachelors this week. A female will be very helpful and show you the way to get out of a tricky situation.

You may have to spend some money on one of your vehicle.

PANDIT PARASHAR, CEO & COO Astro Scan USA is also available for individual consultations.

He can be reached at: parashar@parashar.com

(February 19 to March 20)

Y

ou will take a break from usual routine and travel to a nice place with family for few days. Do not hesitate to try your hands at lottery also. Upcoming Positive changes in career will start to surface but may take another few weeks to get implemented. Spouse may be looking for ways to get back in shape and change diet plan.

510-886-4370 www.parashar.com

52

Classifieds

India Post

May 9, 2014

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RESTAURANT FOR SALE/RENT Well equipped & very nicely furnished Indian Restaurant on SALE & RENT located in the heart of Devon Ave Market.

Best location in Chicago. Only serious enquiries please.

Call: 312-479-5506

WANTED FINANCE MANAGER FINANCE MANAGER WANTED URGENTLY. ANY WORK EXPERIENCE CAN APPLY. MUST BE ACCURATE, COMPUTER LITERATE, HAVE GOOD TYPING SKILLS AND HAVE A GOOD SENSE OF COMMUNICATION.

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MATRIMONIALS BRIDE-GROOM WANTED LOOKING FOR BRIDECITIZEN OR GREEN CARD HOLDER

For a New Jersey based Jain boy, 25, 5’11” well built, graduated in computer science from NIU university-near Chicago, presently working as a senior software engineer in I-GATE solutions in NJ. Good family backgroundfather a journalist and mother a former bank employee in Mumbai.

Contact: Pratima at 98212 61134 or e mail : pratimadshah@gmail.com or Madhav at 815-793-7277 or e-mail

smadhav88@gmail.com

NEWS on your desktop www.indiapost.com

For Classifieds Ads Call NORTHERN CA (Priya) Tel. 510-275-4467 priya@indiapost.com SOUTHERN CA (Shashi Trivedi) Tel: 562-441-5511/ Fax: 562-947-0632 shashi19@yahoo.com CHICAGO (Ramesh Soparawala) Tel: 773-973-7394 / Fax: 773-973-7396 sramesh@aol.com NEW YORK (Pinky) Tel: 908 338 3752 pinky@indiapost.com

Philosophy

May 9, 2014

India Post 53

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Page Sponsored by Sahanis Rabindranath Tagore

W

hen I had thrust the great world unnoticed behind the bars of my office habit I developed in me the belief that I was indispensable. Of the many means by which Nature exacts work from man, this pride is one of the most efficient.

Those who work for money, work only to the extent of their wages, up to a definite point, beyond which they would count it a loss to work. But those whose pride impels them to work, they have no rest; even over-time work is not felt as a loss by them.

So busy used I to be under the belief that I was indispensable, that I hardly dared to wink. My doctor now and again would warn me, saying: "Stop, take it easy."

But I would reply: "How will things go on if I stop?" Just then my health failed me, the wheels of my car broke down and it came to a stop beneath this window.

From here I looked out upon the limitless space. There I saw whirling the numberless flashing wheels of the triumphal chariot of time - no dust raised, no din, not even a scratch left on the roadway.

On a sudden I came to myself.

I clearly perceived that things could get along without me.

There was no sign that those wheels would stop, or drag the least bit, for lack of anyone in Swami Chinmayananda

A

s I sit in Tapovan Kuti, I listen to the sweet melody of Mother Ganga. I can see her in one glance, as she trickles forth from the eternal snows of Gomukh; runs, curls, gurgles; gushes down the mountains, broadens in the valleys and, slowing down majestically, merges into her destination - the all-embracing ocean. As if she were going from youth to old age all at once, forever the same and forever changing.

A perfect example of the lessons of life.

Life, unfortunately, does not come with a prescription on how it is to be used. We all must make our own choice independently and intelligently. Man is ever striving for harmony and perfection. How great he would be if only he had more control over himself!

We are exploring outer space and are ready to plant our flags on the moon but we have not yet managed to explore our within. We have, to a great extent, mastered nature, but we have not yet mastered ourselves.

We have material goods and comforts to hedge us from the vicissitudes of life, but to no avail.

Because we look for happiness in

particular.

But is this to be admitted so easily as all that! Even if I admit it in words, my mind refuses assent.

If it be really quite the same whether I go or stay, how then did my pride of self find a place in the universe, even for a moment?

On what could it have taken its stand? Amidst all the plentifulness with which space and time are teeming, it was nevertheless

egoism is to cut at the root of existence: for, without the pride of self it ceases to be worthwhile to exist.

However that may be, this price has been furnished from some fund or other - in other words, it matters somewhere that I should be, and the price paid is the measure of how much it matters.

The whole universe - every molecule and atom of it - is as-

self-expression of Creative Love.

And man sets before himself different goals as the object of his life according as he views the fact of his being as the revealment of Force or of Love.

The value which our entity receives from Power is quite different in its aspect from that which it receives from Love. The direction in which we are impelled by our pride, in the field of power, is

Egoism is the price paid for fact of existence

Rabindranath Tagore

The value which our entity receives from Power is quite different in its aspect from that which it receives from Love. The direction in which we are impelled by our pride, in the field of power, is the opposite of that given by our pride, in the field of Love.

You are what your deep, driving desire is. As your desire is, so is your will.

As your will is, so is your deed. As your deed is, so is your destiny.

- Brihadaranyaka Upanishad As large as this ether (all space) is, so large is that

not possible to leave out this self of mine. The fact that I am indispensable is proved by the fact that I am.

Egoism is the price paid for the fact of existence. So long as I realize this price within me, so long do I steadfastly bear all the pains and penalties of keeping myself in existence. That is why the Buddhists have it, that to destroy

sisting this desire that I should be. And it is the glory of this desire which is manifest in my pride of self. By virtue of this glory this infinitesimal "I" is not lower than any other thing in this Universe, in measure or value.

Man has viewed the desire in him to be in two different ways.

Some have held it to be an impulse of Creative Power, some a joyous

the opposite of that given by our pride, in the field of Love.

Man grows gigantic by the appropriation of everything for himself: he attains harmony by giving himself up. In this harmony is peace.

Excerpted from Thought Relics, 1921. The 153rd birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore is being observed on May 7.

the wrong direction how can there be any lasting value in this everchanging world, dancing around us! So we get discouraged and feel as miserable sinners. But the Halls of Vedanta have room even for miserable sinners. How great she must be! And such is her glory that she knows no sins - only mis-

Religion is the science of life. It is not for the animals. It is not for those who live barely removed from that level. They regard it with suspicion.

They consider anyone with a trace of spirituality as peculiar or odd; yet they envy them for the inner peace and happiness they

of emotions, this confusion of thoughts. Find the highest in and through life. Think, reflect, meditate. Withdraw your energies from their various fields of dissipation and employ them in the search for truth. The search is arduous, the path is rough and difficult. But the Ultimate Goal is yours by right. Let

We have mastered nature, but not ourselves

can see in them and all around them. This is not gained by book learning but by practice and application. Anyone can gain it.

Today our glorious heritage is buried under the debris of matter and machines. But it is not dead.

Unearth it silently, secretly, diligently, tirelessly. Discover the changeless substratum of the ever changing. Come to realize that you are not this bit of flesh, this bundle

Both heaven and earth are contained within it - Chandogya Upanishad Know that all this, whatever moves in this moving world, is enveloped by God. Therefore find your enjoyment in renunciation; do not covet what belongs to others.

- Ishavasya Upanishad That which is not uttered by speech, that by which the word is expressed,

They consider anyone with a trace of spirituality as peculiar or odd; yet they envy them for the inner peace and happiness they can see in them and all around them. This is not gained by book learning but by practice and application. takes, and mistakes can be corrected.

Every philosophy must necessarily not only expound its theory but also show us how to reach the goal else it is empty daydreaming.

We must know the concept of Reality, the higher Truth. We must find our place in it, and philosophy becomes complete only if it can teach us how to strive to reach the peaks.

ether within the heart.

know That alone to be Brahman, and not this (non-Brahman) which is being worshipped.

- Kena Upanishad Swami Chinmayananda

the words of the rishis spur you on in your adventure Divine. Let the sacred texts be your beacon light. Pursue the path not only by studying but by assimilating the ideas and coming to live them.

Excerpted from Tapovan Prasad, dated 1 May, 2000, on website chinmayamission.com.

The 98th birth anniversary of Swami Chinmayananda is being observed on May 8.

Thinking evolves the objective. All the three worlds exist through thinking. The Kosmos melts away on its dissolution. This thinking should carefully be diagnosed.

- Yogavasishtha

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

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Indo-US defense ties on an upswing

India Post

SHREYA UPADHYAY

A

recent SIPRI report states that India continues to be the world's largest arms importer while the US, the biggest supplier. Though it does not paint a happy picture about the 'patronclient' relationship, it does signify that a lasting relationship with the US is in order. How will the IndiaUS defense ties play out in the near future? What role can it play in India's quest for self-reliance in the defense sector?

Although Russia was India's main arms supplier from 2009 to 2013, India has been diversifying its sources, and is looking towards the US for defense purchases, and identifying best available equipment for specific tasks. In 2013, Washington surpassed Moscow as the top exporter, with $1.9 billion sales to New Delhi.

Despite prickly issues in bilateral relations in recent years - such as the US' reluctance to accommodate Indian interests on issues such as pharmaceuticals, telecom, visa regimes, and the FDI - defense ties

whom technology exports are not restricted.

A glance at recent US Quadrennial Defense Review reports reflects an increasing interest in India. In 2001 there was no mention of India. In the 2006 document, India was defined as, "emerging as a great power".

In the 2010 document, it was referred as the "net provider of security," and in 2014 a more pragmatic engagement based on "Defense Trade and Technology Initiative (DTTI)."

There has been a shift from the present 'buyer-seller' relationship to a substantial co-development and co-production model (CDCP) encouraging high-technology joint research and development.

Divergences in India-US Defense Trade The DTTI intends for Indian defense companies to collaborate with US partners in five co-production ventures, where the US would provide technology and

C-130J Super Hercules aircraft

have been on an upswing.

Recently, both countries signed a $1 billion contract for the acquisition of six additional C-130J Super Hercules aircraft. The transaction is expected to rise to $2.3 billion in 2014 and $3.3 billion in 2015; and the bilateral defense cooperation is being billed at an estimated $25 billion in the next decade.

With US military spending dwindling, the defense contractors are looking at India as an attractive market. Beginning with Raytheon Weapon Locating Radars for the Indian Army in 2004, India has gone on to purchase Lockheed Martin LM2500 marine turbines and power warships, C-17 Globemaster-III heavy cargo aircraft and P-8I Poseidon Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance and Anti Submarine Warfare aircraft, among others.

The US calls India a 'strategic partner' and 'lynchpin' to its AsiaPacific rebalancing strategy. This has facilitated defense technology transfer, which was, earlier, tightly controlled. The US lists India among the eight countries for

guidance for building weapon systems.

The Pentagon initiative argues that co-production would bring high technology, upgrade Indian defense manufacturing sector and familiarize the companies with best global practices, while giving a boost to Indian defense exports.

However, there has been a studied silence from India. Many suspect that the US is tacitly making a backdoor entry into the Indian market, circumventing the Defense Procurement Procedure (DPP) which aims at reversing the trend of importing equipment and weapon system and giving the first opportunity to the Indian industry.

Additionally, the US has been asking India to sign agreements such as the Logistic Support Agreement (LSA) and the Communication Interoperability and Security Memorandum of Agreement (CISMOA). New Delhi fears that these would restrict India's strategic autonomy while Wash-

ington claims that such agreements are essential for the transfer of cutting-edge technology to India.

The US industry has also shown its objection to India's Offset Policy, procurement processes and FDIs. As India strives for indigenization, US companies face Indian expectations of 30 per cent offset packages. This combined with a 26 per cent cap on FDI in the defense sector limits the interest of US companies to fulfill Indian requests for high-technology defense articles.

Technology Transfer: A Road to Self-Reliance The SIPRI report shows India's continued failure to build a robust Defense Industrial Base. There have been no meaningful systemic efforts to reform and revamp existing defense structures such as Defense Research and Development Organization facilities, ordnance factories, among others to ensure they deliver weapon systems without high costs and time overruns.

In 2001, the defense industry was opened for the Indian private sector but procurement policies have remained largely skewed in favor of the Defense Public Sector Undertakings.

This explains why India continues to import most of its military hardware and software, which also makes it vulnerable to supply lines being choked in times of emergency. However, if put to practice, the DTTI can spur greater technology transfer and thus help recipient learn the "know-how" of developing certain classes of equipment.

Co-development and co-production remain the best bet in indigenizing defense technologies but that requires India to free its defense sector from the self-imposed regulatory constraints. If India allows FDI cap to be raised to 49 per cent, it will promote joint ventures between Indian and foreign defense firms.

Such a move will also enable India-based private firms to expand their presence in the defense production sector. With multiple domestic and international players engaged in healthy partnerships, coupled with competition to provide the best weaponry for the armed forces, India can move towards the much sought after selfreliance in the defense sector.

The writer is Research Intern, IPCS

Woman power

I

n spite of the so-called "Modi wave", the political pundits assembled by Outlook magazine are saying the NDA may fall well short of the target of 272 by 40-50 seats. The hunt for the extra supporting parties may not have started but the BJP has taken cognizance of such a possibility by declaring that in no case will there be a compromise on Modi's name for prime ministership.

It has asserted it would rather sit in opposition than tolerate anyone else for the post, whether from within BJP or from outside it.

If there is such a scenario, the BJP may be supplicant at the door of the well-known powerful women CMs or ex-CMs of India J. Jayalalitha of Tamil Nadu, Mayawati of Uttar Pradesh and Mamata Banerjee of West Bengal - all of them authoritarian to a fault. Anyone of them getting nearly 30 seats will become a threat to Modi.

None of them is easy to deal with and they would extract their pound of flesh, and more.

Priyanka Gandhi would have been a threat if she were herself contesting the election. Instead she has jumped into the battle to save the "family." Her attacks on Modi have been much more effective than others. But by entering the fray on behalf of brother Rahul she has accepted that on his own he stands nowhere. In fact, by her late foray she has not only outshone Rahul but by implication shown that he by himself is not fit to be a leader.

Compared to her campaign tactics of going and mingling with the people, Rahul has been stand-offish and disinterested. According to one campaign report from Dahod in Gujarat, Congress candidate Prabha Taviad was prevented from sitting on the dais by the SPG while Rahul addressed a rally. And immediately after, Rahul headed for the helicopter even as the lady candidate ran after him to meet him but the Congress vice-president had already pushed off for his next destination. No wonder Sonia Gandhi has been pleading with the electorate of Amethi to save her son who is seen unable to connect with the people. Priyanka produced a list of Rahul's special schemes for Amethi and the development work done by him and yet the VVIP constituency remains disillusioned with him.

Among others the BJP may be angling for support in case it falls short, Naveen Patnaik of Odisha is not likely to oblige. He had a coalition with BJP in an earlier government avatar but jettisoned them after the BJP goon attacks on Christians in Odisha. Ever since the relationship has been sour. Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy, son of the late chief minister of Andhra Pradesh Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy, may go with the BJP but he won't bring in many MPs to make a difference. Telengana champion K. Chandrashekhar Rao also can go with whoever is in power and can add to the NDA tally. DMK of M. Karunanidhi has been the only party to have been part of every national government since 1996 and could do the same this time going with the winner. But the DMK has fallen from grace after the corruption scandals at the Center in which most of its cabinet ministers were involved.

The powerful women politicians could come on board if their demands are met. Jayalalitha may seek resolution of Cauvery water dispute and reprieve in corruption cases against her. Mamata Banerjee will demand special financial package for debt-ridden West Bengal and also seek key ministries in the Central Government.

Mayawati wants the reservation in promotions bill passed. She will also seek reprieve from CBI probe into Taj Corridor case and the disproportionate case against her.

Nitish Kumar of Bihar has burnt his bridges with the BJP so he may stay out. But there are many outside BJP who could agree to support a BJP government minus Modi. Do we see the chance for Sushma Swaraj here?

May 9, 2014

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May 9, 2014