IndiaPost_05-25-2012 by Ghanshyam Bisht

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Narayan Murthy receives awards from US varsity Details on page 6

E-IPOs to help Diaspora file RTI applications

VOL 17, No. 923

May 25, 2012

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Periodical Postage

BIG NJ RALLY IN SUPPORT OF RAVI

Arunava Majumdar quits top energy post Details on page 5

US sanctions Dawood’s top aides

Details on page 6 Details on page 6

India launches 'Incredible Tiffin' project

India makes strong pitch for US Shale Gas

Details on page 7

Details on page 5

Giving up nuclear power 'harmful', says PM

US firms moving on civil N-deal with India

Details on page 6

Details on page 7

O&M India chief Piyush Pandey honored

CONTENTS Bollywood ---------------------- 24-25 Classifieds ------------------------- 47 Community Post -------------- 10-18 Date Book -------------------------- 46

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

Should US compensate India for cutting Iran oil? Last week’s result

Can India continue friendship with Iran? YES 67%

NO 33%

GIVE HIM JUSTICE: Hundreds of concerned Indian Americans gathered in front of New Jersey Statehouse in Trenton, NJ with placards in support of Dharun Ravi, the former Rutgers University student, convicted of bias intimidation

Edit Page --------------------------- 49 HealthScience Post --------- 38-41 Horoscope ------------------------- 19

NEW YORK: Less than a week before Dharun Ravi's sentencing on hate crime charges, hundreds of IndianAmericans participated in a rally in New Jersey protesting against his conviction, saying the former Rutgers student has been made a "scapegoat" and should not be jailed. Nearly 600 Indian-Americans as well as people from various walks of life gathered in front of the Governor's office in New Jersey to show support for 20-year-old Ravi, convicted of bias intimidation and hate crime charges for

spying on his gay roommate Tyler Clementi. The supporters shouted slogans at the steps of the New Jersey State House and held placards that read 'Set Dharun free', 'Drop all charges', 'Justice not vengeance' and 'Grant Ravi bail.' One sign included a statement by former Governor James McGreevey that said, "Don't make Dharun Ravi Our Anti-Gay Scapegoat."

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Immigration Post ------------- 34-37 Life Style ----------------------- 26-28 Perspective ------------------------ 45 Philosophy ------------------------- 48 Publisherís Diary ------------------ 4 Real Estate -------------------- 42-43 TechBiz Post ------------------- 20-23 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 29-31

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May 25, 2012

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May 25, 2012

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ay is the month for the annual nationally legislated Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage celebrations. Although AAPIs in clude a broad spectrum of communities from Chinese to Micronesians and at least 20 natives of other ethnicities in between, it was fitting that when recognizing their contributions, President Barack Obama should have mentioned an Indian American when he talked about trailblazers. "…trailblazers like Dalip Singh Saund - a young man from India who, in 1920, came to study agriculture, stayed to become a farmer, and took on the cause of citizenship for all people of South Asian descent. And once Dalip earned his own citizenship, he stepped up to serve the country he loved - and became the first Asian American elected to the Congress." The story of Indian immigrants to the US is almost legend as over the decades they have positioned themselves as the most successful of immigrant communities with an undeniable presence in every sphere from Wall Street, Washington DC to Hollywood and from teaching in Ivy League colleges, researching at premiere medical institutions to being small business owners like Dunkin Donuts to being cab drivers in New York City. Collectively too, the AAPIs stand out for the high rate of education, employment and entrepreneurship among them. Despite the recession, this past year, AAPI businesses grew by over 40%, a rate that more than doubles the national average between 2002 and 2007. Their nearly 1.6 million businesses employ almost three million Americans with an annual payroll of over $80 billion. It is not that AAPI communities do not face issues of poverty, health disparities, discrimination - and in recent years, profiling - and they have their fair share of black sheep amounting to crime, illegal immigration and corruption; still, this is the group that has uncannily found the key to fulfilling the clichéd American Dream. And in crediting their success to the unmitigated opportunities that this land provides, President Obama rightly said that "…no matter who you are, no matter where you came from, no matter what you look like, America forever remains the place where you can make it if you try."

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HIGHLIGHTS Bollywood: 3 for one The gorgeous Katrina Kaif is enjoying super stardom working with the three leading Khans of Bollywood.

Cover Story: Call for justice Hundreds of Indian-Americans participated in a rally in New Jersey protesting against conviction of Dharun Ravi.

Community: Victory for Sikhs Washington’s Police Deptt has allowed Sikh Americans to maintain their articles of faith while serving as officers.

Health: Anti-HIV pill A pill to prevent HIV infection is already being given to some healthy people, but without U.S. government approval.

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Life Style: Beyondancing Beyondancing is a Bollywood dance group that volunteers for fundraisers and other charity events at no cost.

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Travel: Jageshwar Set amidst a tranquil and serene atmosphere, Jageshwar houses nearly 200 temples built in honor of Shiva Mahadeva.

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Big NJ rally in support of Ravi NEW YORK: Less than a week before Dharun Ravi's sentencing on hate crime charges, hundreds of Indian-Americans participated in a rally in New Jersey protesting against his conviction, saying the former Rutgers student has been made a "scapegoat" and should not be jailed. Nearly 600 Indian-Americans as well as people from various walks of life gathered in front of the Governor's office in New Jersey to show support for 20-yearold Ravi, convicted of bias intimidation and hate crime charges for spying on his gay roommate Tyler Clementi. The supporters shouted slogans at the steps of the New Jersey State House and held placards that read 'Set Dharun free', 'Drop all charges', 'Justice not vengeance' and 'Grant Ravi bail.' One sign included a statement by former Governor James McGreevey that said, "Don't make Dharun Ravi Our Anti-Gay Scapegoat." The two-hour rally was attended by Ravi's parents who said he did not get a fair trial and urged for support to ensure justice for

their son. Ravi was not present at the rally. Visibly tensed and downcast, Ravi's mother Sabitha broke down as she urged members of the me-

dia, who attended the trial and "knew he didn't get a fair trial", to "please wake up and then write something and bring some justice for Dharun." She said in the days following

India makes strong pitch for Shale Gas from US NEW DELHI: Energy-deficient India has made a strong pitch for export of Shale Gas in liquefied form from the United States which has been pressurizing it to reduce import of oil from sanction-hit Iran. The Indian request comes in the backdrop of Petroleum Ministry's decision to cut crude oil import from Iran by over 11 per cent this fiscal to 15.5 million tonnes, apparently succumbing to the US pressure. During a meeting between a US delegation led by Carlos Pascual, Special Envoy and Coordinator for International Energy Affairs in the US State Department, and a composite Indian delegation led by Jawed Ashraf, Joint Secretary (AMS) in the MEA, the Americans made a detailed and expansive presentation on oil and gas markets including the impact of LNG and of Shale Gas on integration of gas markets. Official sources said this included demand, supply, and consumption pattern projections of discoveries off the cost of East Africa. On its part, "India explained the long-term projections of its

energy needs including key suppliers of oil and natural gas and possible external energy sources" in Africa, North America and Southeast Asia, the sources said. India is currently importing crude oil from 30 countries spread across different continents.

During a meeting between a US delegation led by Carlos Pascual, Special Envoy and Coordinator for International Energy Affairs in the US State Department made a detailed and expansive presentation on oil and gas markets "Incentives being provided on renewable energy sources were also detailed and in the context of these discussions, the possibility of export of Shale Gas in

liquefied form from the US to India was also raised," the sources said, adding "it is expected that the US will positively consider this." Earlier in the day, Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas R P N Singh, in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha, said India has decided to cut crude oil import from Iran by over 11 per cent this fiscal to 15.5 million tonnes. India, which imports 80 per cent of its crude oil and relies on Tehran for 12 per cent of those imports, shipped 18.50 million tonnes of oil from Iran in 201112, he said. The US has been pressurizing India to restrict its economic ties and reduce import of crude oil from Iran, reiteration of which was made by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton during her meetings with Indian leadership during her recent visit here. The Indian delegation also included Prabhat Kumar, JS (ES) in the MEA apart from officials from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy Resources, Ministry of Power and Planning Commission.-PTI

the suicide of Clementi, media reports had slammed her son as a hateful person and passed judgment on him without knowing the facts. Anil Kappa, an organizer of the

rally, said there is "outrage" among people that Ravi was found guilty of hate crime even though he is not a homophobic and there is no proof he hated gays or had bias towards them. "The charges levied on Ravi are wrong. He should never have been brought to court. He did not do anything out of bias or hate," Kappa told PTI. He said the entire case has destroyed Ravi's life and there should not be any further injustice to him. Ravi is "not (keeping) very well. What would you expect. He has been living in an exile in his home for the last two years and this is getting even worse now. He does not even go out for a sandwich," Kappa said. Ravi will be sentenced by state Superior Court Judge Glenn Berman in a New Brunswick court on May 21 and faces up to 10 years in prison and possible deportation to his native India. He was convicted after a threeweek trial in March for spying on the sexual encounter of Clementi, who later committed suicide. -PTI

Arunava Majumdar quits top energy post WASHINGTON: Arunava across the country to join the Majumdar, eminent Indian Ameri- ranks at ARPA-E and create procan scientist has resigned after grams that have the potential of the US Senate did not confirm changing the entire energy landPresident Barack Obama's pro- scape," Chu said. posal to elevate him as Biochemist Eric Toone, a former undersecretary at the Department professor at Duke University in of Energy. Durham, North Carolina, and Obama withdrew Majumdar's DOE's deputy director of technolnomination which was sent to the ogy for ARPA-E, will become head Senate on November 30, 2011, the of ARPA-E, Chu wrote according White House said in a statement. to the Science Insider magazine. Head of the Department of Energy's (DOE's) Advanced Re- Last November, Obama had search Projects proposed elevating Agency-Energy (ARPA-E), Majumdar Majumdar to an would leave the posi- undersecretary at DOE, but tion June 9, US Energy Secretary Steven Chu the Senate never confirmed wrote in his e-mail early the appointment this month. Last November, Obama had proposed elevating David Sandalow, assistant secMajumdar to an undersecretary at retary of energy for policy and inDOE, but the Senate never con- ternational affairs, will become firmed the appointment. undersecretary. "Under Arun's leadership, we Majumdar became the first Dihave seen ARPA-E grow from a rector of the Advanced Research fledgling program to become a Projects Agency - Energy (ARPAleading agency for innovation E), the country's only agency deand energy research," Chu wrote. voted to transformational energy "Arun has recruited some of research and development, in Octhe most talented professionals tober 2009. -PTI

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Giving up nuclear power 'harmful', says PM NEW DELHI: Making a strong pitch for nuclear energy, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has said it would be "harmful" if the country gave up the option of additional source of electricity. "We are not in a situation in which Japan is there... It would be harmful for the country's interest to pass an Ordinance of self-denial that we shall give up the option of having nuclear power as an additional source," he told the Lok Sabha during Question Hour. Singh was replying to a question by Anant Geete (Shiv Sena) on the Prime Minister's views on giving up nuclear power like Japan which has put safety issues ahead of its need for electricity. At the same time, the Prime Minister said there would be no compromise on the issue of nuclear safety. He said that as far as the present policies with regard to nuclear power were concerned, the

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh

government was of the view that when it comes to questions of safety, there should be no compromise whatsoever. . "Our safety measures are an open book... So, I think, the policy that we have right now is that we must do everything in our power to ensure foolproof safety of the nuclear plant.

That we will never compromise with," Singh said. "But, at the same time, I would respectfully submit that it would be harmful for the country's interest to pass an Ordinance of self-denial that we shall give up the option of having nuclear power as an additional source," Singh said. The Prime Minister said that government would never do anything which creates doubts about the safety of nuclear plants. India has 19 functioning nuclear reactors and there has never been any incident, Singh noted. "And even after Fukushima, I ordered a complete revisit to all the 19 reactors. Those findings of the NPCIL are on the websites for everybody to see," he said. On Germany giving up nuclear power, the Prime Minister pointed out that Germany relies on France to meet its power need and France has a large number of nuclear power plants. -PTI

Narayan Murthy receives awards from US varsity WASHINGTON: Infosys chief mentor Narayana Murthy has been felicitated with the Global Leadership and Free Enterprise awards by the University of South Florida in recognition of his entrepreneurial spirit. The two awards were presented to Murthy by USF President Judy Genshaft at a ceremony in Tampa, Florida. In his interaction with USF students, Murthy talked about his current duties as Infosys chairman emeritus, which keeps him busy though not involved in the day-to-day operations, and then engaged in a question and answer session. Murthy recounted details about the impact of changes in the tech world that "transformed the entire scenario" for corporations and "opened up unlimited and enormous opportunities," most significantly the introduction of super computers and online transaction capabilities. Maria Valentino, who mentioned how impressed she was with the business culture she found during her visit to Infosys as a student, asked how his company managed to maintain its values.

Murthy responded that, because of his middle class background, it was not as difficult to do as it might be for the mass of people eking out a living. "You need a spirit of sacrifice and you need to have trust," he said. He explained how the company's ethos has its roots in the very first meeting held at his house in Mumbai with his six fellow founders. Their discussion was focused on profitability. Murthy focused their atten-

tion on "seeking respect," "living in harmony with society" and making sure "you don't shortchange your customers". When you do those things, "Revenue will come. Profit will come," he said. In response to a question about the chances of Murthy entering politics, he mentioned his preference for "rational discussion" and the difficulty the political world offers for such a discussion, he expressed some hesitation. -PTI

US sanctions Dawood Ibrahim's top aides WASHINGTON: The United States has designated underworld don Dawood Ibrahim's two close aides as key drug traffickers and placed sanctions on them aimed at constricting their access to business and financial networks. The Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control designated Chhota Shakeel and Ibrahim 'Tiger' Memon as Specially Designated Narcotics Traffickers for their roles as part of 'D Company', a criminal group run by Dawood. It said Mumbai-born 57-yearold Chhota Shakeel is Dawood's lieutenant who coordinates for D Company with "other organized crime and terror groups." The department said Memon, 52, is a trusted lieutenant of

Dawood and controls D Company's businesses across South Asia and is also wanted by India for his involvement in the 1993 Mumbai bombings that killed more than 250 people. "Treasury continues to target the nexus of crime and terrorism in South Asia with today's action against one of the world's most notorious criminal organizations," said OFAC Director Adam Szubin. Interpol has issued provisional arrest warrants or "red notices" for both Shakeel and Memon. Dawood was named as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist in October 2003, and in June 2006, he was named as a drug trafficker. Also in June 2006, the Dawood group was named as a Significant Foreign Narcotics Trafficker. -PTI

E-IPOs to help Diaspora file RTI applications NEW DELHI: Making it easy cepted. for the Indian Diaspora to seek in"Money will not be received formation under the RTI Act, the physically by the PIO but will be Centre has decided to float elec- transferred to a consolidated fund tronic Indian Postal Order for pay- of India. This will be on the pating RTI fee, which can be pur- tern of the payment received by chased using debit and credit the Department of Posts in the cards. scheme of CAPIOs", it said. The Indians settled abroad The Ministry directed all Minwere finding it difficult to seek information under the transparency Under the proposed law as IPO or Demand Draft of Rs 10 was not scheme, once applicant easily available. purchases e-IPO using The Department of Personnel has now credit or debit card physical agreed in principle with postal order will not be genthe Department of Posts to launch e-IPO erated, only a number which can be easily would be generated which purchased by the applicant living abroad using could be mentioned on the their credit or debit application by the applicant cards. Under the proposed scheme, once applicant pur- istries and departments to appoint chases e-IPO using credit or debit nodal officers for handling e-RTI card physical postal order will not applications. be generated, only a number It said the nodal officers will would be generated which could be given training to handling be mentioned on the application these applications once the moby the applicant. dalities are worked out. "Information seeker will write Commodore (retd) Lokesh this number on his RTI applica- Batra who was pursuing this mattion and send to public authority. ter for the last five years said, "We Service of e-IPO along with RTI would like to express our gratitude application will be applicable to to the Government for giving comCentral Public authorities", a Per- mitment in the Parliament regardsonnel Ministry circular said. ing 'facilitating filing of RTI appliThe details provided by the cations in Central Government applicant will be matched with public authorities by 'Indians livthose on the Department of Posts ing abroad' through sale of Indian website and once transaction de- Postal Orders through Internet on tails are matched, fee will be ac- payment in foreign currency".-PTI

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India launches 'Incredible Tiffin' project NEW DELHI: The flavor of India captured through its food is the next big idea in tourism, with the local Indian 'dabba' going glam, under a project that seeks to showcase the variety in the country's cuisine as well as attract tourists. The "Incredible Tiffin" project by the Cuisine India Society launched here recently provides a tiffin packaged with local food for people outside the country, to help them get an idea of the choices of food available in India. The project is part of the Tourism Ministry's popular "Incredible India" campaign that was launched initially to attract more foreign tourists and has now successfully established India as a high-end tourist destination. "Food has much more pleasure, joy and happiness attached to it rather than any other art form. Indian cuisine reflects spirit of India. When we have such wide varieties of exquisite cuisines to offer then why not let our tourists nurture a life long passion for Indian food," says Anil Rajput, Senior Vice President, ITC Maurya which hosted the project launch inaugurated by Tourism Minster, Subodh Kant Sahay here. "We got food experts like Manisha Bhasin, Pushpesh Pant, Narendra Bhui and Gautam Anand who have done a wonderful job in providing a package 'tiffin' which will not only spread awareness about Indian food but will make them fall for it," says Rajput. "Incredible Tiffin" an initiative put forward by Cuisine Society of India took four years to develop as a concept. "Foreign tourists have a limited idea about Indian food. Unlike other countries the specifications of Indian food change every 100 kilometers and with each region, community and ethnic household kitchen. The basic idea was to gather huge spread of culinary offerings under one umbrella of Indian

dabba," says Manisha Bhasin, Executive Chef, ITC Maurya. She adds that the "Incredible Tiffin" project is also an initiative to document the history of food

Saadgi (common man's) food. In a sample Delhi tiffin four prevalent cuisines including Kayasthas, Vaish, Muslim and Punjabi have been included.

Tourism Minster, Subodh Kant Sahay inaugurating the project

so that rare dishes are not lost to future generations. "Incredible Tiffin" offers a well packaged platter of choicest offerings answering the question of what foreign tourists should look for Indian food while they are traveling to India. Use of different tiffin carriers

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;We can't keep selling the Taj Mahal again and again in name of tourism. We need to explore wider areas and hence we decided to go deeper in to the food cultureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; denotes different region and communities. The first to roll out in the Incredible Tiffin project is the rich Delhvi cuisine. Food from Delhi has been divided into Farmaishi (royal) cuisine and

"Indian cuisine has spirit, influence, passion and zeal to attract tourists. With 'Incredible Tiffin' being launched, we aim to attract 5 million more tourists to India" says Tourism Minister Sahay. Applauding the Cuisine Society of India he adds "Food has already evolved significantly over 100 years. We are waiting for the day when chefs will also start getting ' Bharat Ratnas' and will be treated at par with musicians, authors and sports stars." The man behind the concept V Sunil, Creative Director, 'Incredible Tiffin' says "We can't keep selling the Taj Mahal again and again in name of tourism. We need to explore wider areas and hence we decided to go deeper in to the food culture." Sunil who was also the creative director of the Incredible India campaign adds "Packaging has always ruled the market. We have rich variety of cuisines but they needed to be packaged and presented well. So we decided to come up with something which had contemporary packaging with local connect and appeal".-PTI

US firms moving on civil N-deal with India WASHINGTON: American companies are now finding ways to move ahead on commercial negotiations with India on the civilian nuclear deal, a top Obama Administration official has said. "On the civil nuclear deal, we are pleased US companies are finding ways to move ahead with commercial negotiations," Assistant Secretary of State for South

and Central Asia Robert Blake lawmakers at a Congressional hearing. Blake's remarks in his testimony before House Committee on Foreign Affairs Sub Committee on the Middle East and South Asia came immediately after a key American Congressman raised concerns over the non-implementation of the civil nuclear deal.

The historic civil nuclear deal has not been implemented, said Congressman Steve Chabot, Chairman of the Sub-Committee. "To date the US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement hasn't met the US commercial expectations due to the nuclear liability law passed by the Indian Parliament which essentially shuts-out US companies," he said. -PTI

Mohinder Singh created Knight by Pope B

hai Sahib Mohinder Singh from GNNSJ, Birmingham has been created a Knight by the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI in recognition of his dedicated work to Roman Catholic Sikh relations and for his enthusiastic commitment to working for peace among people of all faith. Pictures show Mohinder Singh being awarded knighthood.

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Chennai students briefed on 'Iran oil import cut not due to US pressure' India-US relations India Post News Service

WASHINGTON: Students of the Chettinad Vidyashram from Chennai (India) were briefed on India-US relations at the Indian Embassy on May 8. These students attended the NASA Camp Kennedy Space Center and Space Camp in Orlando, Florida for a week before visiting Washington, DC. The trip was organized by Ms. Srimathy Kesan, Director, Space Kids Agency Services. The Principal of Chettinad Vidyashram thanked the Embassy for the briefing. A painting symbolizing India-

U.S. friendship by S. Thanekaivel, a ninth grade student at Chettinad

Vidyashram School, was presented to the Embassy here.

A painting symbolizing India-U.S. friendship by S. Thanekaivel

NEW DELHI: A day after an- pressed Indian leadership on the nouncing that it was further re- issue during her recent visit here. ducing oil imports from Iran, In"Total crude oil imported from dian government has emphasized Iran by Indian companies during it was not done under the pres- the period 2010-11 and 2011-12 is sure of the US which has imposed 18.50 million tonnes and 17.44 milsanctions against Tehran. lion tonnes respectively. Officials sources said the re"The target fixed for import of duction of oil imports was not hap- crude oil from Iran for the year pening suddenly, the "actual di- 2012-13 is approximately 15.5 milminishing" of India's oil imports percentage are happening for the last ‘The quantum of crude oil few years. And to back imported by Indian refineries the remarks, they cited from various sources is the past figures. The sources also decided by them on the said the cutting the basis of technical, quantum of crude oil imcommercial and other ported by Indian refineries from various considerations’ sources is decided by them on the basis of technical, lion tonnes," Minister of State for commercial and other consider- Petroleum and Natural Gas R P N ations. Singh said in a written reply in the The petroleum ministry had ear- Rajya Sabha. lier announced that it was reducAccording to the fresh US sancing its import target from Iran by tions, which are due to come into 11 per cent this financial year to effect on 28 June, there will be im15.5 million tonnes, a statement that position of severe punitive meacomes barely days after US Secre- sures on financial institutions or tary of State Hillary Clinton had countries dealing with Tehran.-PTI

US plans more talks with India on Iran oil

New rial-rupee mechanism on payment issues NEW DELHI: India has said a new rial-rupee payment arrangement has been put in place for bilateral trade with Iran. The problem with Iran began after the Reserve Bank of India, in December 2010, withdrew the Asian Clearing Union (ACU)

the Rajya Sabha. He was replying to a query on whether India has taken steps to help its exporters sending consignments to Iran. Iran imports goods like textiles and agricultural products from India which relies on Tehran for

Scindia said All India Rice Exporters Association members had informed they were facing problems in receiving payments for shipments of rice made to Iran. The overdue amount was reported to be about Rs 200 crore mechanism under which payments were made to Iran. "Rial-rupee payment arrangement has been put in place for bilateral trade between India and Iran," Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jyotiraditya Scindia said in a written reply to

12 per cent of its total crude oil imports. Scindia replied in the positive to a query on whether India continues to export goods to Iran in spite of US and Euro zone sanctions. "India exports goods to Iran in

accordance with its international obligations of United Nations sanctions on Iran," Scindia said. On proposed implications of these sanctions, he said they have the "potential to disrupt India's trade with Iran". Washington has been urging India to cut its oil import from Iran for a waiver from US sanctions. To another query, Scindia said All India Rice Exporters Association members had informed they were facing problems in receiving payments for shipments of rice made to Iran. The overdue amount was reported to be about Rs 200 crore, he said, adding the Indian embassy in Iran has taken up the matter with respective Government authorities in Iran for getting the payments cleared. "As per available information, the defaulters are Iranian private companies and not government entities," Scindia added. -PTI

WASHINGTON: The US has tonnes for this financial year as said that it will have more consul- disclosed by Minister of State for tations with India on New Delhi Petroleum and Natural Gas R P N reducing dependence on Iranian Singh in Parliament. crude. India depends on Iran for 12 "There is more progress to be per cent of its 80 per cent of immade and that's what Carlos is talk- ports of crude. ing about and we will have more The Obama administration has on his consultations after they are been exerting pressure on differcomplete," US State Department ent countries, including India, to spokesperson Victoria Nuland said here. She was talking to ‘There is more progress to journalists who asked be made and that's what her questions about the Carlos is talking about and progress in the discuswe will have more on his sions US emissary on energy Carlos Pascual consultations after they are had with Indian offi- complete,’ US State Departcials in Delhi on the ment spokesperson Victoria subject. Nuland said as the Nuland said Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said when she was bring down their Iran oil imports. in India "we are making Hillary Clinton, who was in Inprogress". dia last week, stated that India She was responding to a query needed to further reduce imports on whether the US is impressed from Iran to win waiver from US with what Indians have done to sanctions. reduce the import of Iran oil. It has granted waivers to the The remarks comes against the sanctions for Japan and 10 Eurobackdrop of Indian government pean countries but has left out cutting its crude import target from China and India, Iran's biggest cliIran by 11 per cent to 15.5 million ents. -PTI

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Cyber space played key role in 26/11 attack WASHINGTON: The Mumbai attack perpetrated by Pakistanbased LeT was an example of how terror outfits use latest available IT tools for their decisive motives, a top US commander has said, highlighting the role of cyber space in such events. "All the mission planning (for Mumbai terrorist attack) was done via Google Earth. There was no investment in technology of (intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) platforms or anything like that," US Marine Corps Lt Gen George Flynn, Joint Staff's director of joint force development, said. Flynn stated this in his address to the sixth annual 2012 Joint Warfighting Conference in Virginia Beach. During the Mumbai attack, Flynn said, terrorists used cellular phone networks as command and control and social media to track and thwart the efforts of Indian commandos. "How much technology or how much investment was made to create that terrorist capability?" asked the Pentagon commander. Flynn argued that the homeland is now part of the battle space as the pace of change is increasing. As a result of which adversaries are taking advantage of change.

That trend is likely to increase in the near future, he cautioned. "If you like the complexity and uncertainty of today, you're really going to like tomorrow," Flynn said. He noted that the terrorists behind the Mumbai attack exploited inexpensive and commonly available assets to plan and

This was accomplished without any investment in expensive technologies or systems, Flynn said. "Space and cyber will continue to play an increased role in events, with each becoming increasingly contested domains - so it's a new domain that we're going to have to contest," Flynn said.

execute their onslaughts. They conducted their mission planning using Google Earth, and they used conventional cell networks to carry out their command and control. When a tourist snapped and posted on the Web a cell phone photo of Indian army commandos dropping on the roof of the hotel, the terrorists used it to lay a trap to ambush the would-be rescuers.

"Security challenges will have both local and global aspects, we think, with events occurring across the globe," he added. This democratization of technology is closing the gap between the West and its enemies, he said. The battle space of the past was linear with clear definitions, while the future battle space is multidimensional with several domains, he argued. -PTI

'Pakistan a black hole for American aid' WASHINGTON: Noting that the US has provided a whooping USD 24 billion in aid to Pakistan in last decade, American lawmakers have accused it of providing shelter to terrorists and said Islamabad is like a black hole for US aid. "Pakistan is like a black hole for American aid. Our tax dollars go in, our diplomats go in (sometimes), our aid professionals go in (sometimes), our hopes go in, our prayers go in. Nothing good comes out," Congressman Gary Ackerman, Ranking Democrat member in the House Committee on Foreign Affairs Sub Committee on the Middle East and South Asia, said at a Congressional hearing. "Since FY 2004, we have sunk USD 24 billion in foreign assistance to Pakistan. It is hard to fathom how so much money can buy so little. Waste at this scale requires not only an oblivious body politic and Congress, but a large cadre of government professionals and a horde of contractors," he said. Pakistan's government, civilmilitary relationship, and

economy are not an iota less dysfunctional than they were 10 years ago, and in some respect are probably worse, he said. Ackerman alleged that Paki-

this indisputable fact might be grossly impolitic; but that doesn't make it less true. American standing in Pakistani public opinion is terrible and getting worse," he said.

Congressman Gary Ackerman

stan continues to pursue its national interest at America's expense and that of its actual allies. "Pakistan continues to shelter, directly support and sponsor terrorists. Officially acknowledging

"When polled last year, three out of four Pakistanis regard the United States unfavorably and more than half hold it to be bad thing that Osama Bin Laden sleeps with the fish. -PTI

"Conditional aid to Pak would be counterproductive" WASHINGTON: The White lition support requirements. House has strongly opposed the "This can put at risk the succonditions on US aid to Pakistan cess of our campaign in Afghaniby the powerful House Armed stan, and increasing the risk that Services Committee in the Na- al-Qaeda and its associates would tional Defense Authorization be able to again enjoy a safe ha(NDAA) for the fiscal year 2013. ven in Pakistan," the OMB stateIn a statement issued by the ment said. White House Office of ManageThe White House also obment and Budget (OMB), the jected to the language included Obama administration said any in the Act, which would limit the conditions imposed on Pakistan use of expanded procurement aufor receiving US aid would be thority to only those Northern counter-productive at this sensi- Distribution Network (NDN) tive time. countries that agree to permit the Opposing many provisions of transport of coalition personnel, the NDAA-2013, the White House threatened to veto it, if the cu- â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Obama administration mulative effects of the strongly objects to the rebill impede the ability of striction in reimbursement for the Administration to execute the new de- Pakistan from Coalition fense strategy and to Support Funds and the properly direct scarce associated certification resources. requirementsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; The Obama administration strongly objects to the restriction in reimbursement equipment and supplies. for Pakistan from Coalition SupThis restriction would hamper port Funds and the associated cer- DOD's attempts at local procuretification requirements in section ment along the NDN and would 1211 of the Act, it said. impact transit agreements that the "Taken together, the reim- United States already has negotibursement restriction and the cer- ated with several countries along tification restrictions - some of the NDN, it said. which require the Secretary of Last week, the House Armed SerDefense to certify Pakistani coop- vices Committee "overwhelmingly" eration on issues outside of his passed the Defense Authorization purview - are proposed at a par- Act (NDAA) 2013 imposing conditicularly sensitive time and would tions on Pakistan for receiving ecoseverely constrict DOD's (Depart- nomic and military aid from the US ment of Defense) ability to re- based on Islamabad's action against spond to emergent war-time coa- terrorists and IEDs. -PTI

India tops in rate of maternal deaths worldwide UNITED NATIONS: India and Nigeria together accounted for a third of the deaths of pregnant women globally in 2010, latest UN figures said, even as maternal deaths declined by nearly half in the past two decades due to improvement in health systems and increased female education. Globally, an estimated 287,000 women died in pregnancy and childbirth in 2010, a decline of 47 per cent from levels in 1990, with Sub-Saharan Africa and Southern Asia accounting for 85 per cent of the those maternal deaths, according to a report on trends in maternal mortality between 1990 to 2010 released by UN Population Fund (UNFPA), World Health Organization, UN Children's Fund and the World Bank. At the country level, India and Nigeria accounted for a third of

global maternal deaths, with India at 19 per cent (56,000) and Nigeria at 14 per cent (40,000). The global Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) in 2010 was 210 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, down from 400 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in 1990. Another eight countries Democratic Republic of the Congo (15,000), Pakistan (12,000), Sudan (10,000), Indonesia (9,600), Ethiopia (9,000), Tanzania (8,500), Bangladesh (7,200) and Afghanistan (6,400) - account for the nearly 40 per cent of the global maternal deaths. The report said every two minutes a woman dies of pregnancyrelated complications like severe bleeding after childbirth, infections, high blood pressure during pregnancy and unsafe abortion. -PTI

Desi News Classical Indian dance teacher recognized India Post News Service

ST LOUIS: The Artistic Director and founder of Kuchipudi Art Academy of Dance, St. Louis, Guru Sujata Vinjamuri was awarded the 'Kala Ratna' award at a function organized by the State Department of Culture and the Andhra Pradesh Cultural Council at Ravindra Bharathi in Hyderabad, India on March 30. Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy conferred Telugu Velugu2012' and Kala Ratna-2011 awards to eminent Telugu achievers. Eight of the achievers were honored with the title Telugu Velugu. Details on page 12

Chicago area Jains celebrate Mahavir Jayanti SURESH SHAH

Community's glitzy reception for TV Asia in Atlanta India Post News Service

COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA

BAPS hosts walkathon in support of cancer society Details on page 17

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May 25, 2012

Sikh cops can retain beards & turbans India Post News Service

WASHINGTON, DC: The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) here became the first major metropolitan police department in the country to allow Sikh Americans to maintain their articles of faith while serving as full-time law enforcement officers. At an event at MPD Headquarters, Chief Cathy Lanier released a Special Order amending the uniform rules. The new rules offer specific guidance on the accommodation of the Sikh articles of faith. The policy was developed with the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF). Key features of the policy include: • Applies to all uniformed officers • Protections for officer health and safety • Accommodates the Sikh articles of faith, including beards and turbans "I am proud of this new policy which reflects the values of the MPD. Making it clear that Sikh Americans may protect the Nation's Capital and may serve their community as full-time officers reflects the promise we made

MPD Chief Cathy Lanier announcing the measure

to have a police force that serves as a model for those around the world. It is important that all those who live in, work in, and visit the District see our values and com-

enforcement community," said Jasjit Singh, Executive Director of SALDEF. "Chief Lanier and MPD recognize the importance of breaking down barriers to service. This

‘Sikh Americans may protect the Nation's Capital and may serve their community as full-time officers reflects the promise we made to have a police force that serves as a model for those around the world’ mitment to the community in our officers," said Chief Lanier. "We at SALDEF are pleased to partner with the MPD as they continue to play a leading role in developing best practices for the law

first of a kind guidance by one of the nation's premier law enforcement agencies serves as a model for other agencies across the country." Sikh Americans often face bar-

riers to employment in public safety because of their articles of faith, including uncut hair and turbans. Unlike their counterparts in other nations, Sikh Americans were often discouraged from serving their communities because of uniform policies which lacked accommodations for religious articles. "Due to this new policy, Sikh Americans have an equal opportunity to serve in the Nation's Capital," said Mr. Singh. "We encourage Sikh Americans to pursue careers with MPD, the first major police department to allow Sikh Americans to serve and protect their neighbors as full-time officers while maintaining their religious identity."

O&M India chief Piyush Pandey honored India Post News Service

NEW YORK, NY: At a ceremony at the American Museum of Natural History on May15, the Clio Awards, one of the world's most recognized awards competitions honoring excellence in advertising, design and communications, celebrated the work of winning agencies from around the world. Winners received Grand, Gold, Silver and Bronze statues in 11 different media fields such as Film, Interactive and Print. The night's big winner was Ogilvy & Mather, which was named as Network of the Year, with Worldwide Chief Creative Officer Tham Khai Meng accepting the award on the agency's behalf. Chairman and Chief Creative Officer of BBDO New York David Lubars accepted the Agency of the Year honor. President and CEO of Volkswagen Group of America Jon Browning and Executive Director of Marketing Product and Communication, VW Passenger Cars at Volkswagen AG Luca de Meo took the stage to accept Volkswagen's Advertiser of the Year Award. Smuggler was honored as Production Com-

pany of the Year. Wieden+Kennedy London received the Clio Hall of Fame Award. The ceremony, hosted by comedy icon Joan Rivers, paid tribute to Clio Life-

The night's big winner was Ogilvy & Mather, which was named as Network of the Year, with Worldwide Chief Creative Officer Tham Khai Meng accepting the award on the agency's behalf time Achievement Award winner Piyush Pandey, Executive Chairman of Ogilvy & Mather India, for his prolific, three decades-spanning career. Cont’d on page 13

Piyush Pandey

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May 25, 2012

India Post 11

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Children from slums perform for Manav Sadhana JAYANTI OZA

Children form a pyramid at Manav Sadhana event A skit signifying oneness of the world

CHICAGO: Manav Sadhna a not-forprofit organization serving slum areas in Ahmedabad, organized Ekatva, a theatrical production on the theme of oneness as part of its fund raising efforts. The event highlighted by performances

dren. Every performance carried messages of universal love, peace and unity. Manav Sadhna Founder Biren Joshi from Ahmedabad thanked every one for helping Manav Sadhna. A recognition plaque was given to Nimo (Nimesh Patel)

Manav Sadhna Founder Biren Joshi from Ahmedabad thanked every one for helping Manav Sadhna. A recognition plaque was given to Nimo (Nimesh Patel) for producing this show. The plaque was given by representatives of Manav Sadhna Chicago - Ratnaben Patel and Nehaben Joshi

Bapu personified with Charka

of 16 children from the slums of India carrying a message of universal love, harmony and unity, took place on May 12 at the Glenbard East High School, Lombard ,a southwest suburb of Chicago. Over 900 people enjoyed this performance which comprised Gujarati folk dance, Garba, Raas, dances and pyramid formation by 16 chil-

for producing this show. The plaque was given by representatives of Manav Sadhna Chicago - Ratnaben Patel and Nehaben Joshi. The evening came to an end with Paresh Patel of Mega Circuit & Organizer Vanleelaben Amin offering thanks to all who helped in making the show a success.

Dr Chhibber convicted of health care fraud MADHU PATEL

CHICAGO: A federal jury convicted Dr. Jaswinder Rai Chhibber, a physician who operated a south side medical clinic, of engaging in a health care fraud scheme between 2007 and July 2010, according to an announcement from federal law enforcement officials. Chhibber, who operated the former Cottage Grove Community Medical Clinic located at 642 East 79th St., Chicago, was convicted of defrauding Medicare and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois by submitting false insurance claims for medically unnecessary tests and using false diagnosis codes to justify the tests he had ordered. Chhibber, 43, of Schaumburg, was found guilty of five counts of health care fraud and four counts

of making false statements involving a health care benefits program after less than two full days of deliberations following a week-

Chhibber ordered medically unnecessary tests, falsified patients' medical records, and used false diagnosis codes

Dr. Jaswinder Rai Chhibber

long trial in U.S. District Court. The jury found him not guilty of seven additional counts. Chibber faces maximum penalty

of 10 years in prison on each count of health care fraud, and five years in prison on each false statements count, and a $250,000 fine on each count. The evidence at trial showed that Chhibber ordered medically unnecessary tests, falsified patients' medical records, and used false diagnosis codes on insurance claim forms in various fashions for at least five patients who testified at trial, including two undercover federal agents who posed as patients. Evidence also showed that Chhibber administered echocardiograms, electrocardiograms, nerve conduction studies, and carotid doppler and abdominal ultrasounds for an unusually high percentage of his Medi-

care and Blue Cross patients. The conviction was announced by Patrick J. Fitzgerald, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois. The U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Railroad Retirement Board Office of Inspector General also participated in the investigation. The investigation was conducted by the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which expanded to Chicago in 2011, and is part of the Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Action Team (HEAT), a joint initiative between the Justice Department and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce antifraud laws around the country.

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Classical Indian dance teacher recognized India Post News Service

ernment every year to legendary personalities of Andhra Pradesh who have strived to promote and showcase Telugu arts & culture. Kuchipudi Arts Academy of Dance, St. Louis, founded in 1980 by Guru Sujata Vinjamuri, is a dance and cultural organization committed to enriching cultural diversity in the St. Louis area and

The Kuchipudi Art Academy of Dance, St. Louis has been conducting annual fund raising events each year since 2004 and all net proceeds were donated to charity organizations in the St. Louis area. Since 2010, the school has started organizing performances in India Ravindra Bharathi in Hyderabad, India on March 30. Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy conferred Telugu Velugu2012' and Kala Ratna-2011 awards to eminent Telugu achievers. Eight of the achievers were honored with the title Telugu Velugu and 15 others were identified as Kala Ratna. The prestigious Kala Ratna award is conferred by the AP gov-

to widen the horizons of international understanding through dance and performing arts and to devote its efforts to funding and supporting charitable causes in the US and around the world. The Kuchipudi Art Academy of Dance, St. Louis has been conducting annual fund raising events each year since 2004 and all net proceeds were donated to

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy seen conferring Telugu Velugu-2012' and Kala Ratna-2011 awards to Guru Sujata

charity organizations in the St. Louis area. Since 2010, the school has started organizing performances in India (New Delhi, Hyderabad & Tirupathi) and all

proceeds of New Delhi and Hyderabad were donated to different local charities. In June 2012, students from the school and Artistic Director Guru

Sujata Vinjamuri will again be performing in Hyderabad, Tirupathi and Kolkata. Also, the school annual program is scheduled for October 20 in St Louis, MO.

Hindu Temple presents Brahmotsavam celebrations USHA PARITI

Nitya Pariti and Padmanabha Puthige performing

CEDAR RAPIDS, OH: The Hindu Temple of Eastern Iowa, Cedar Rapids, Ohio, presented an enthralling evening of music and dance marking the occasion of the third annual Brahmotsavam Celebrations from May 10 to May 13. Several religious events including Srinivasa Kalyanam marked the religious ceremonies. Dance performances in Kuchipudi by Swetha Sudhir and Jaya Blanchard followed by Kathak presentation by Noopur Dance Academy enthralled the audience. Highlighting the evening,

NadaBrahmam, a group of Carnatic music enthusiasts organized a Classical Veena concert by Ms Nitya Pariti from Chicago, a high school sophomore at the Illinois Math and Science Academy (IMSA). Nitya is the disciple of Smt. Rajeswari Pariti, a renowned A grade Veena artist from All India Radio. Starting off the concert with Bhairavi Ata Tala Varnam, Viriboni, Nitya gave an enthralling Veena performance and provided a glimpse of her command on this divine instrument Veena. She rendered a very traditional 'Vatapi Ganapathim bhaje' in raga Hamsadhwani.

Nitya Pariti being honored

One could see many in the audience enjoying this popular composition by Shri Muthuswamy Deekshithar. Her main item was "Pakkala Nilabadi" with Ragam, Tanam, Neravul in Kharaharapriya. Her manodharmam, neravals and swara prastaras in Pakkala Nilabadi were very well appreciated by the audience. Nitya's rendering of Tillana in Hindola, followed by a Devara nama 'Bhagyada Lakshmi barramma' were like icing on the cake. Padmanabha Puthige, a Carnatic music enthusiast and active member of Nadabrahmam group from Cedar Rapids

accompanied on the mridangam and supported the concert brilliantly. It is very encouraging to see the younger generation in the US embracing Carnatic music, which takes years of practice to become a quality musician. The executive committee of the temple and senior community members honored all the artists and commended the dedicated efforts of the volunteers of Nadabrahmam group in bringing forth such high quality presentations to art lovers. Volunteers served free lunch and dinner to all the devotees that attended the event.

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May 25, 2012

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Nrithya Samarpanam celebrates Mother's Day USHA PATRI

CHICAGO: The Cultural Committee of Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple in Aurora, a southwest Chicago suburb, presented an enthralling dance festival "Nrithya Samarpanam" celebrating Mother's Day with enthralling performances from local dance schools, visiting troupes from across the country and also India. The dance festival attracted more than 250 participants. Participating schools included: Pragati School of Dance, Kalarpana Dance School, RK Dance Academy, Padanjali School of Dance, Nrithyakshetra Dance School from St. Louis, Nrithya Geetanjali Dance Academy, Kalaanjali School of Dance, Madison, Kuchipudi Natya Vihar, Dancelementz, Bharatanjali School of Dance, Mudra Dance Academy, Prerna School of Performing Arts, Mookambika School of Performing Arts, Lasyam School of Dance, Aananda Dance Theater, Natraj Dance Academy, Students of Devaki Janakiraman, Samskriti ensemble of Dance, Nrithyalaya School of Dance, Nrithya Sangeeth School of Performing arts and Nrithyanajali School of

Kuchipudi dance performance by Kalaimamani Madhavapeddi Murthy and troupe. Male dancer in the center is the featured artist from India.

presentation 'RasaManjari and Celluloid Classic', by Kalaimamani Sri Madhavpeddi Murthy and troupe with live orchestra from India. Hailing from Andhra Pradesh and having enviable artistic family background, Murthy excelled in his chosen form of Kuchipudi. He has traveled world wide giving performances and demonstrations. He performs classical dance

Radica Giri from California & Bhavajan Kumar

Dance. Highlighting the evening were solo featured presentations by Radica Giri from California, Ashrita Vemuganti from India, Bhavajan Kumar from India, Sai Santosh Radhakrishnan from India, and Madhavi Reddy from Virginia. Performances by these featured artists were a visual treat to the audience. The grand finale was a magnificent Classical Kuchipudi dance

shows with leading danseuses Hema Malini and Meenakshi Seshadri. He is an empanelled artist in the ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations) and is the recipient of a number of prestigious awards. The beautiful costumes, sound effects with melodious music in "Rasamanjari and Celluloid classic" glued the audience to the seats for the entire duration. The troupe consisting of artists from

India and USA's most talented dance group, with a varied age group, displayed a stunning performance. Madhavapeddi Murthy was supported by accomplished live orchestra members from India and Chicago- Thiruvarur Girish on the vocal, Vedantam Ramu on Nattuvangam, Basavaraju Ganesh on Mridangam and Tabla, Sreekrishna Pasumarthy on the flute and Dr. Prasod

The well talented, young dancers emancipated the minds of the audience with their skillful Kuchipudi rhythms and their immense expressions. Murthy mesmerized the audience Ramachandran on violin. The well talented, young dancers emancipated the minds of the audience with their skillful Kuchipudi rhythms and their immense expressions. Murthy mesmerized the audience with his grand, royal performance and majestic movement. The enthusiasm Reshma Gunasekharan, a 12th grade student of Guru Madhavapeddi

O&M India chief Piyush Pandey honored Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 10

Often feted as "the godfather of Indian advertising" by peers, Pandey was also the recipient of the 2010 Advertising Agencies Association of India Lifetime Achievement Award. Pandey was presented the

award by Ogilvy & Mather Chairman Shelly Lazarus. "I feel very honored to be receiving the Clio Lifetime Achievement Award. I'm mostly grateful to the 1.2 billion people in India who like my work and made it possible for it to get noticed internationally," said

Pandey. "I share this award with them." Photographer Annie Leibovitz and chef, author and television host Anthony Bourdain received honorary Clio Awards for their outstanding bodies of work and creative contributions to their respective industries.

Dancer Kalimamani Madhavpeddi Murthy

Murthy, showed to come all the way from India, to participate in this production depicts her dedication towards the great art of Kuchipudi Natyam. There were also many local performers who played supporting dancers - Reshma Gunasekharan, Kalyani Veturi, Swetha Kareti, Srininija Soumya Adibhatla, Joshua Cherian George, Bhavya Kumaran, Sushma Kola, Ushasri Munukutla, Sreelekha Sama and Lakshmi Venkatesan. This grand production was cosponsored by Telugu Association of Greater Chicago (TAGC), TriState Telugu Association (TTA)

and Sulekha.com web portal. The representatives of Balaji Temple, TAGC and TTA, honored the artists that presented the show .The Cultural Committee chair commended the dedicated efforts of the Balaji Temple Cultural Committee members in bringing forth such high quality presentations to Chicago art lovers. Sri Balaji Temple will be organizing two day guest lectures on "Sanatana Dharma and Western Civilization" by philanthropist Rajiv Malhotra, founder of Infinity Foundation during the temple anniversary celebrations to be held on June 2 and 3.

Community Across America

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Chicago area Jains celebrate Mahavir Jayanti SURESH SHAH

CHICAGO: The Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago's (JSMC) Bartlett, Illinois temple celebrated a weeklong festival on the occasion of birth anniversary of Bhagwan Mahavir. The highlight of the celebration was discourses by Shri Bhadrabahuji from Ahmedabad. A revered person in the Jain world Shri Bhadrabahuji has spent his entire life preaching the message of Bhagwan Mahavir. Mahavir Jayanti is regarded as one of the most important Jain festivals of the year. This year the actual Jayanti was on April 4. It marked 2,611 years since the birth of the apostle of peace who is worldwide regarded as the founder of Jainism. Bhagwan Mahavir was born in 599 BC Chairman of JSMC Board of Trustees (BOT) Arvind Shah introduced the newly elected JSMC office bearers. He also briefed all those present with the current and future initiatives undertaken by the team and shared the financial health of the society. He thanked all the sponsors of the event for their contributions. JSMC President, Tejas Shah, said that the entire Jain communities throughout the Chicago land area, Indiana, and Wisconsin celebrated Mahavir Jayanti here at the Bartlett Jain Temple. On this auspicious occasion the facility was beautifully decorated including the Pratimaji (Idol) of Mahavir Swami, the main deity at the Jain Temple of JSMC. This year the celebrations came at a very auspicious time of Ayambil Oli. Ayambil is a penance where the observer eats only once a day; where a completely boiled Jain vegan menu is served. The Ayambil Oli is observed over a course of nine days and this year they coincided with Mahavir Jayanti celebrations. Over 37 members observed penance for the entire nine days and many more did it for a day or two On Saturday April 7, a grand poojan of Shri Siddha Chakra was organized in the main Prayer Hall. Over 50 families simultaneously performed the poojan that was at-

tended by 500 Jains. The evening started with the most sought after event - the MJ Cultural Night. It was attended by more than 2,500 people. The hall was packed with attendees. About 250 kids, youth and adults, from 3 yrs to 50 yrs in age, participated in this cultural show and presented a variety of artistic dance, Garba, classical Bharat Natyam, skit, band and chorus. The morning of Sunday April 8, started in a very spiritual way. A Digambar Mahavir Janma Jayanti Pooja was organized making sure that Jains from all walks of life were able to attend and take part in this spiritual journey. Digambar Pooja was performed by 30 families and around 100 people attended the poojan. In the afternoon of April 14, an annual declamation contest for various age groups was organized.

The Ayambil Oli is observed over a course of nine days and this year they coincided with Mahavir Jayanti celebrations About 72 students and members, the largest in the history of this contest, participated. The topic for Group1, age 8 to 9, was: "Being Jain Today and Tomorrow." The winners were 1) Riya Jain, 2) Labdhi Jain & 3) Om Gandhi. The Group 2, Age 10 to 13 topic was: "If Bhagwan Mahavir were alive today." The winners were 1) Priya Shah, 2) Siddhi Jain & 3) Riya Shah. The Group 3, Age 14 to 18, topic was: "Power of forgiveness." The winners were 1) Anish Doshi, 2) Vinita Choradia, 3) Nemi Shah. For Group 4, age 19 and above, the topic was: "Entrepreneurship - The Jain Way." The winners were 1) Neelam Jain Shah, 2) Sejal Jain & 3) Reshma Shah. Founded in 1970, the Jain Society of Metropolitan Chicago (JSMC) is a non-profit tax exempt organization registered in State of Illinois.

Yohanan recognized financial executive of year DIAL GIDWANEY

EVANSTON: Robert R. Yohanan, founder, managing director and chief executive officer of First Evanston Bancorp Inc./First Bank & Trust, was recently named DePaul University's Financial Executive of the Year. Yohanan, a DePaul alumnus, leads a $750 million publicly held bank holding company that provides retail and commercial banking services in the Chicago area, specializing in serving middle-market companies and not-for-profit corporations. He also has served two terms as a director of The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. Inductees into the Financial Executive Hall of Fame are chosen by the Driehaus College of Business' Finance Department Advisory Board. Yohanan is the 14th inductee into the Financial Executive Hall of Fame since 1999. To qualify for induction into DePaul's Financial Executive Hall of Fame, honorees must accumulate a lifetime of distinguished professional achievements, advance to the executive rank within their organization/firm, be or have been directly or indirectly responsible for at least one of the finance functions within their organization/

firm, and be recognized for their significant contribution to the success of their organization or to the discipline of finance. Yohanan said that he was proud to have been selected for the award by the institution that gave him his

Prior to joining First Evanston Bancorp, Yohanan had been president and chief operating officer for six years of Lake Shore Bancorp Inc./ Lake Shore National Bank, a $2 billion bank holding company in the greater Chicago area start. "DePaul not only prepared me well academically, but it helped engender in me the personal qualities of hard work, inquisitiveness, leadership and integrity that are so vital in the business world." Prior to joining First Evanston

Bancorp, Yohanan had been president and chief operating officer for six years of Lake Shore Bancorp Inc./Lake Shore National Bank, a $2 billion bank holding company in the greater Chicago area. He also had been employed by the

Robert Yohanan CEO First Bank & Trust

First National Bank of Chicago in a wide variety of domestic and international credit and general management assignments, managing branches in London, England; Dublin, Ireland; Kingston, Jamaica; and Beirut, Lebanon.

Portland brewery apologizes after Hindu protest India Post News Service

OREGON: The Portland-Oregon based Burnside Brewing Company, which had announced releasing its "Kali-Ma" beer on May 15 has postponed the release and would rename it after a strong protest from members of the Indian community who revere Kali Ma as goddess. In an announcement published on their Facebook page, the company wrote: In response to pleas from the Hindu community we have decided to postpone the limited release of "Kali-ma" our imperial wheat ale flavored with Indian spices and ScotchBonnet peppers. It is NEVER our intention at Burnside to offend or alienate any race, creed, religion or sexual orientation. The

inspiration for the beer label simply came from a favorite child-

hood movie in the "Indiana Jones" series and we were unaware that it could be offensive to anyone. We are currently scrambling to re-name the beer and intend to release it s o o n afterwardsâ&#x20AC;Śto anyone we have offended we sincerely apologize." Rajan Zed, President of Universal Society of Hinduism, spearheaded the protest, calling identifying of the beer with goddess Kali as "inappropriate." He has now taken the opportunity to thank the company for understanding the hurt feelings of Hindu community. It was a step in the right direction, he added.

Community Across America

May 25, 2012

India Post 15

www.indiapost.com

Kingport Hindu temple completes 10 years KRISHNA RAJDA

TENNESSEE: Hundreds of Indian Americans flocked to Regional Indian-American Community Center to attend a three-day celebration recently to mark the 10th anniversary of the opening of their first temple and community center in Kingsport. Prior to 2002, members of the Indian community used to meet for worship and conducting rituals or social interaction at private residences. Thereafter there was a great surge in the community in the Tri-Cities region. The members were able to pool their resources and build a temple and community center in Kingsport at 406 Westfield Place off Rock Springs Road. Many of them have lived in the region for 25 years and some as long as 40 years. Today there are more than 150 "members" of the RIACC who contribute financially, but Dr Darshan Shah said the center serves more than 400 families. Although one goal of the facility was to give area Hindus a place in the Tri-Cities to

worship, Shah said it is also intended to help new and recent arrivals from India assimilate into the American culture, and more specifically, the East Tennessee culture. The Center celebrates American holidays, as well as Indian holidays, and membership is not

tion), morals, etc.; and a youth program to engage the teens in various activities. In May and June, it is organizing Vishnu Sahastranam, Hinduism Lecture Series, Satyanarayan Katha, etc. Although RIACC was formed in 1989, the Hall of Worship

Besides RIACC, Tennessee also has a Sri Ganesha Temple in Nashville, Indian Cultural Center and Temple in Eads, and Hindu Community Center of Knoxville in Lenoir City. RIACC also helps new immigrants from India to assimilate in the American society limited to Hindus or Indians. Non-profit RIACC serves the IndoAmerican community in the Tri-Cities and surrounding areas of Tennessee, Virginia and North Carolina. Besides worship services and community gatherings, it also offers classes in Hindi and Bharat-Natyam; instruction to children about bhakti (devo-

(HOW) was purchased in 2002. Darshan Shah and Puneet Goenka are Chairman and Vice Chairman respectively of RIACC Board of Trustees; Poorvi Tiku and Sunny Bhat are President and Vice President respectively of its Executive Committee; while Ashok Gala is Chairman of HOW Committee.

Besides RIACC, Tennessee also has a Sri Ganesha Temple in Nashville, Indian Cultural Center and Temple in Eads, and Hindu Community Center of Knoxville in Lenoir City. RIACC also helps new immigrants from India to assimilate in the American society. Celebrations ending May 13 were highlighted with Garba-Raas, havan, archana, traditional dance and fireworks. On May 12 there was a children's talent showcase, dance recital and performances, a motivational speaker from the Jonesborough Storytelling Center and fireworks. The celebration concluded with religious services, a traditional Indian meal and a traditional dance recital. Nicknamed "The Model City", Kingsport was settled in 1771. Dennis Phillips is the Mayor and notable people associated with it include historian Edward L. Ayers, musician Barry Bales, footballer Gerald Sensabaugh, actor Steven Williams and poet Charles Wright.

Baba Ramdev supports equal rights for all Dalits India Post News Service

CHAMBERSBURG, PA: Influential yoga guru Baba Ramdev, a celebrity swami in India who has political aspirations, recently

tain Dalits," remarked Ramdev. "This is not fair. A Dalit is a Dalit whether he is a Hindu, Christian, or a Muslim. So, all Dalits should get equal rights." The Tide, an international out-

spoke in favor of including qualifying individuals of all faiths as Dalits in the scheduled caste, or SC, system. At a convention backed by All India United Muslim Morcha, Ramdev advocated for equal rights of all Dalits - or disadvantaged groups with spe-

reach group committed to worldwide evangelism and discipleship, agrees with Swami Ramdev's position. "It is heartening to see that rights will be granted to Christians and others, including support for disadvantaged peoples of all

"I did not know until recently that Article 341 [of the Indian constitution, which provides rights to certain Dalits] does not cover certain Dalits," remarked Ramdev cial rights under the Indian constitution - including Muslims and Christians. "I did not know until recently that Article 341 [of the Indian constitution, which provides rights to certain Dalits] does not cover cer-

faiths, not just those that are indigenous to India and therefore were covered under the country's Constitution," said Don Shenk, Director of The Tide. "We support any group or individual that recognizes the worth and validity of

Christians, as well as all people, and advocates for equal rights regardless of faith or belief systems, in this circumstance." The Tide, a 65-year-old global gospel ministry that produces radio programs in several heart languages throughout the world, has been active in India for 34 yearsnearly half of its 65 year existenceand has changed countless lives there. "In our organization, we seek to reach people where they are, regardless of their background or faith, in order to positively impact lives in India and elsewhere around the world," Shenk continued. "And we will always honor the sentiments of people like Swami Ramdev when they are

working to increase the rights of disadvantaged people." The Tide currently produces heart-language radio programs in many different languages in India, with programming available in

Hindi for nearly three-and-a -half decades. Because of the large Hindi speaking population in India, The Tide produces two different programs that air at various times during the week.

16 India Post

Community Across America

May 25, 2012

www.indiapost.com

Atlanta community's glitzy reception for TV Asia

H.R. Shah India Post News Service

ATLANTA, GA: North America's premier information and entertainment TV Asia Channel, which has been serving the SouthAsian community for the past twenty years, organized a get-together to meet and greet TV Asia's Chairman and C.E.O. Mr. H.R. Shah and the TV Asia team at Impact Hall, Global Mall, Norcross, Georgia on Sunday, May 6. The event was graced by the presence of Consul-General of India in Atlanta, Ajit Kumar and leading community dignitaries. Ms. Nalini Raja, who has been with TV Asia for over a decade, emceed the program and welcomed all. Raja who resides in South Carolina used to come to cover events in Atlanta before a bureau was formed here and said that she understands the craving for national media from the Atlanta Indian community and that TV Asia is here to do just that. TV Asia Senior VP Lal Dadlaney said that TV Asia, which is the voice and mirror of the South-Asian community, launched with the help of Indian cinema's iconic Amitabh Bachchan has grown during the past 20 years. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Its Chairman Mr. Shah has been a pivotal and supportive figure in its growing popularity. "We are not competing with Sony, or Zee or any other TV Channels but filling the niche. Our business model is to support the community. We tell our stories-stories of our attainments, our accomplishments, our successes. We celebrate our Festivals here and we are partners with AAHOA, AAPI, TiE, etc and report on their activities and contributions to the community. I request you all to give us your feedback and let us know your concerns and problems so we can help you resolve those. We look forward to your cooperation and

support. Thank you all for your presence here" Mr. H R Shah is an eminent entrepreneur, social activist and noted philanthropist. He has played prominent roles as Founder and President of many leading organizations like AAHOA, The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA), etc. He is also Founder and Trustee of VRAJ, an Institute of Indian Heritage, a prominent religious-spiritual-social-cultural center for all Hindus. He has been bestowed with numerous awards including the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor. Mr. Shah congratulated Mr Ajit Kumar on opening of the Indian Consulate in Atlanta. He said that

and to expand worldwide in two years. TV Asia radio (Radio Asia) can be enjoyed on smart phones. "We want to continue serving the community as always so please contact us if we can help in any way" Nitin Shah recounted how TV Asia was instrumental in growth and success of AAHOA. With the help of TVASIA, AAHOA is 11,000 members strong today. Mr Ajit Kumar began in a lighter vein," During past few months, I have attended many events and wherever I have gone, I have seen 'ever-present' Anjali, busy taping with her camcorder. She used to interview me but I wasn't able to watch her tapes. I have solved the problem and now I can watch TV

TV Asia has long and cordial relations with all the Indian Consulates in the US and assured him of TV Asia's full support and cooperation. He recognized Nitin Shah, Founder and past Chairman of AAHOA, The Chairman, Gandhi Foundation of USA, Subash Razdan among others and complimented Marketing Director Ved Bhatia and reporter and local rep Anjali Chhabria of TV Asia's Atlanta Bureau, acclaimed Vastu FengShui practitioner, author and TV personality Pallavi Chhelavada. Mr. Shah said that TV Asia would strive for continued growth

Asia on Satellite. Media is very important element of our democratic society. I am glad TV Asia is giving sterling service to about 3 million-strong Indian community in the US. In a few months, when we have our Consulate's opening ceremony, we will invite TV Asia to cover it. My very best to TV Asia." Razdan extended his warm welcome and good wishes to Mr. Shah and his team and said that both he and Mr. Shah 's association stretched back many years due to their participation in NFIA. He lauded Mr. Shah's role in major organizations and also as an out-

standing media person, who had supported Namaste Bombay all along. Bobby (Mukund) Patel said that in 2009, he had a nine- day event and had requested Mr. Shah to air this event live. Not only did he do that but that too pro bonehead also complimented Nalini who accompanied them in January on a hectic trip from Jaipur to Vidyanagar to Mumbai. The Vice-President of the Hindu Temple of Atlanta, Riverdale, GA and a prominent Republican activist Narender Reddy expressed his thanks to TV Asia for covering TAMA, TANA and ATA conventions and making them very popular and said that in his long years in political involvement, TV Asia did more lobbying than all of them put together. "When we went to present our views, Mr. Shah helped us out in Washington, D.C. TV Asia is doing a yeoman's job for our community and I wish it all the success." Kennesaw State University's Interim Director of Auxiliary Services and a proficient journalist Viren Mayani said that TV Asia could not have come any sooner to Atlanta as the latter is growing by leaps and bounds and so is Georgia. The Marketing Director of JanDarpan magazine, Ravindra Dave said he loved TV Asia because it announces community events in Atlanta and also helps in coverage of the same. Atlanta's performing arts promotion stalwart and India Tribune(Atlanta Office)'s Mustafa Ajmeri spoke of long enduring friendship between media- duo H.R. Shah and India Tribune's Founder/Editor Prashant Shah in Chicago." We have a long and cordial relationship with TV Asia and we are proud of its contribution in Atlanta". Atlanta's well known and admired poetess welcomed H.R.Shah

and his team to Atlanta with reassuring lyric: "Jitne haseen log hei utna haseen shehr hei. (Atlanta is as pretty /noble as its residents)."and thanked TV Asia for supporting events organized by Atlanta's Pakistani community. The Global Mall owner and philanthropist Shiv Aggarwal thanked TV Asia for serving as 'eyes and ears of the community' and wished it success. Nritya Natya Kala Bharti Dance Academy's Founder and Music Director Sandeep Savla and students performed a scintillating Kathak dance. Nalini invited questions from the floor. Atlanta's notable Attorney Udai Singh, fond of music and performing arts suggested that instead of airing 'Abhi to mein Jawan hoon' thrice a week, TV Asia should consider airing it daily. Mr. Dadlaney responded that the suggestion was good. It was already four times a week and a daily show would be implemented if there was a big demand and consensus from the viewers. Atlanta's well-known music aficionado Alibhai Asani suggested that TV Asia should air one monthly program, comprising performing artists from all the communities. This would help promote peace and harmony among different communities. Atlanta's well known B4U entrepreneur Nadir Jiwani said that he would like TV Asia to consider more interesting content for the young generation. Mr. Dadlaney said that TV Asia's motto was 'Home away from home'. "Now US is our home, so we are re-programming and re-focusing on kids here .Our mission is to propagate our rich culture and heritage and we also want to highlight their accomplishments. We just got the exclusive American College Cricket franchise of 50 colleges in the US. We want to encourage Sachin Tendulkars of this country."

Community/California

May 25, 2012

India Post 17

www.indiapost.com

BAPS hosts walkathon in support of cancer society India Post News Service

CHINO HILLS, CA: Over 700 community volunteers participated in the BAPS Charities' 15thannual walkathon held on Saturday, May 5 at the Veterans Park in the City of Chino Hills. In keeping with its theme, "Building a Better Community, One Step at a Time", the beneficiaries of this year's walkathon were the American Cancer Society and Michael G. Wickman Elementary School. With each step, participants of all ages joined hands and raised funds for the benefit of the American Cancer Society and for educational needs of the children at Michael G. Wickman Elementary School. The American Cancer Society is the nationwide, communitybased, voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating can-

tary School was honored with a California Distinguished School Award. In fact, it has been recognized again this year as a California Distinguished School. Funds were also raised for the

ties!" said Minal Mistry, BAPS Charities volunteer. Showing their appreciation for the efforts of BAPS Charities at this year's walk were Chino Hills Mayor Art Bennett and Chino Hills

munity and that goes a long way. We should go a long way to thank them for their efforts and service." Vice Mayor Rogers stated, "This is what BAPS Charities is about bringing the community together.

their appreciation. Mr. James Na, School Board Member and Mr. Don Wilson, Principal of Wickman Elementary were honored on stage along with fellow teachers, parents, and students from Wickman

cer as a major health problem by conducting cancer prevention programs, saving lives and diminishing suffering from cancer, through research, education, advocacy,

benefit of the local heroes from the Chino Valley Independent Fire District and the San Bernardino County Sherriff's department, who serve to protect the public on a

Vice Mayor Peter Rogers. Mayor Bennett commented, "BAPS Charities has not backed down one iota from their commitment to this com-

I want to thank BAPS Charities." Representatives from the Chino Valley Unified School District were also in attendance and showed

Elementary School. Ms. Cheryl Cox, PTO President, was also recognized on stage. "I am truly impressed by the participants' love and dedication to the cause. It has truly moved my heart," said James Na, Chino Valley Unified School District Board Member. "I really appreciate the service that BAPS Charities has given to Chino Valley Community." Em Feller and Christine Travis, both representatives from the local chapter of the American Cancer Society, were also honored on stage and shared their words of appreciation for being selected as beneficiaries for this year's walkathon.

"This event has a simple purpose - to bring friends and families together, get to know one another, relax, get some exercise, and support the causes of BAPS Charities!" and service. Wickman Elementary is the largest Elementary school in the Chino Valley School District and is home to over 900 students. In May of 2008, Michael G. Wickman Elemen-

day-to-day basis. "This event has a simple purpose - to bring friends and families together, get to know one another, relax, get some exercise, and support the causes of BAPS Chari-

Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 18

18 India Post

Community/California

May 25, 2012

www.indiapost.com

BAPS hosts walkathon in support of cancer society

Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 17

Ms. Feller stated, "This donation by BAPS is tremendous and we are so grateful. We are privileged to be a part of this fight

presented BAPS Charities with a proclamation. Mr. Roman Nava, a representative from the office of Mr. Gary Ovitt, Fourth District San Bernardino County Supervisor, also voiced words of appreciation

DeMonaco, were also honored on stage at the walkathon and they thanked BAPS Charities for their continued efforts and donations. The 5K walkathon inspired young and old to go the extra mile

The 5K walkathon inspired young and old to go the extra mile to make a difference in someone's life. Hari Agarwal, a local Chino Hills business owner, commented, "This was my first time participating and attending this kind of eventâ&#x20AC;? against cancer. We wish you a phenomenal event." Savitri Zala, a representative from the office of California State Assemblyman Curt Hagman, also

for the walkathon. Chino Valley Independent Fire District's Fire Chief, Kirk Summers and Fire Board Members, Ed Gray (President), Ray Marquez and John

to make a difference in someone's life. Hari Agarwal, a local Chino Hills business owner, commented, "This was my first time participat-

ing and attending this kind of event. It is an excellent way to help the community." With over 40 centers participating in similar walks across North America, this is just one of many initiatives that BAPS Charities takes to support local communi-

ties. Throughout the year, BAPS Charities hosts medical fairs, education and career development seminars, blood drives and much more. BAPS Charities sincerely serves the community, by improving the quality of life of individuals and families.

NRCC names Ricky Gill a 'young gun' India Post News Service

LODI, CA: The National Republican Congressional Committee has announced that Lodi family farmer Ricky Gill has advanced to the top level of its "Young Guns" election program. Gill is one of just 12 candidates nationwide - and the only California candidate who is challenging an incumbent - to be named a "Young Gun." "These candidates have met a series of rigorous goals that will put them in position to win on Election Day," said NRCC Chairman Pete Sessions (R-TX). "These twelve candidates are leading the pack as Republicans continue to send a

loud and clear message that we will hold Democrats accountable for

In his campaign against incumbent Rep. Jerry McNerney, Gill already has secured the endorsements of key local officials, and raised more than $1.2 million their job-destroying agenda." In his campaign against incum-

Ricky Gill

bent Rep. Jerry McNerney, Gill already has secured the endorsements of key local officials, has raised more than $1.2 million largely from individual donors, and has been featured in media outlets across the country. "I'm humbled to receive this recognition," said Gill. "We've accomplished a lot so far on this campaign: we've led the charge for local representation, we've stood up for farmers, and we've fought for parents and students who want a better education." "But there is more work to be done," he said. "It's time to build on this momentum and make a fresh start in Washington."

Horoscope

May 25, 2012

India Post 19

www.indiapost.com

Your Weekly Future by Pandit Parashar MAY 25 TH - MAY 31TH (March 21 to April 20)

(November 23 to December 22)

ast efforts will pay off and you will reap rich rewards for hard work and dedication. Concentration of planets in second is very favorable for all financial matters. New issue involving a child will start causing little stress in mind and you may call an old friend for advice. Sign all contracts after carefully reading the fine lines only.

oss will assign additional work and set the deadline too. There will be slight delay in all plans but you should not feel disheartened. Only determination will take you closer to ultimate success. Some of you may be thinking of adopting the legal path to resolve an issue, its not a bad idea. Watch out for hidden enemies.

(April 21 to May 20)

(December 22 to January 19)

ecision will not be easy as you will be torn between right and wrong but will ultimately make the correct choice. You will be excited and slowly getting ready about an upcoming big reunion with some one too close. You will have an excellent opportunity during to week to make some extra money. You will go to the mall and buy some nice stuff for yourself.

ou will spend money on buying some nice gifts for others. Business will pick up all of a sudden. Some major changes in career are also around the corner. A child will get accepted to the school of his choice. (January 20 to February 18)

lanets are definitely on your side and you should not hesitate to make your move. New project started now will be successful and last forever. You may be in market to replace one of your vehicle with more economical one. You will visit an old friend with family this weekend. Listen to the whole idea before you respond to spouse.

(May 21 to June 20)

ou will be concerned about things moving backwards instead of going forward. Do not be double minded and continue to work on your plans. Some of you may be seriously thinking about getting out of a venture not doing so good lately. You may have some work done on one of your vehicle or in or around your home. Bank balance will fluctuate.

(February 19 to March 20)

ou will share your wisdom and knowledge with a needy person. Mail you send out will get quick and positive response. You may be seriously looking into a lead given by a close friend. Some of you will be slowly getting ready for an upcoming big move. Spouse may complain about some aches and pains in joints.

(June 21 to July 22)

ou will be very lucky in all money matters. Money can just pour in from all directions. Value of your stocks will appreciate a lot. If were waiting for any kind of clearance from a government agency, it could come during the week. You will gain friendship of an influential person. Spouse will feel better with change in diet and little exercises. (July 23 to August 22)

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

510-886-4370

A year full of excitement for Sonam Kapoor

our projects will need more than earlier estimated. Any investment made at this point will be fruitful for a long time to come. Business will keep improving at fast pace. You may have to work longer hours but would be worth it. Keep an eye on new subordinate and do not trust any one with your money. (August 23 to September 22)

lanets are definitely on your side. You will find good solutions to all problems big or small. Children will do better and one of them may get admission little away from home. Money long overdue can also show up. You will be calling some people overseas more frequently this week. You may dispose off some stocks for a decent profit. (September 23 to October 22)

ou will be spending more time away from home or take a short trip to attend to some important and urgent business. Money wise you will continue to well as all projects will keep moving in the right direction. Some one too close may make an unreasonable demand and try to take advantage of your generosity. Property deal can also finalize. (October 23 to November 22)

oney wise you will start to do well from now and on. Earlier investments will start to yield profit. You will continue to negotiate with a large organisation and the commitment can come any time. Calculate all the pros and cons before you decide to invest in another property. Any change in career at this point will be lucky.

website: www.parashar.com

o be born with a 'Kapoor' surname gives you the instant right to be a star in the Bollywood fraternity! And if you add to that some gorgeous looks, some royal elegance and impressive acting skills, you know that you have a winning combination. Sonam Kapoor, is all that and much more. After a forgettable debut in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Saawariya, this beautiful girl has managed to slowly, but steadily, climb up the ladder of success with her subsequent releases. Sonam is a Gemini and her ruling number is 9. Her lucky days are Monday, Tuesday and Friday. She is extremely talented and hard working. She sets some impossible targets for herself and gets frustrated

when she fails to achieve them. She is a dreamer and a romantic at heart. She thrives on change and loves exploring new ideas. She has a multifaceted personality but needs to be more focused to succeed. Her soul mate would understand her, as well as her needs. 2012 promises to be a year full of excitement for Sonam. She will be making many right choices and will come up with something great that will impress just about everyone. She will once again be in the news for making some controversial statements. She will have to take better care with regard to what she says in public. It may not be the right thing to do at this stage in her career. Mercury will be in her favor and projects will move ahead at a good pace and she will be fairly successful.

Tech News IT base set to make strides in India MUMBAI: India's growing IT infrastructure market will reach USD 2.05 billion in 2012 and USD 3.01 billion by 2016, according to a market research agency. A 10.3 per cent increase will be registered in the domestic IT infrastructure market this year compared to 2011,'Gartner', the agency, said. Servers are the largest segment of the infrastructure market, as revenues are forecast to reach USD 754.5 million in 2012, and grow to USD 967.2 million in 2016, it said. "Technology's role in the enterprise is increasing and IT's closer alignment with business, and vice versa, is a topic of much focus within Indian enterprises today," Gartner's Research Director Aman Munglani said. ContĂd on page 21

ED probing money laundering cases against Airtel NEW DELHI: Enforcement Directorate (ED) is probing money laundering cases against Bharti Airtel, Minister of State for Finance S S Palanimanickam informed the Rajya Sabha. "Directorate of Enforcement is investigating cases under the provisions of Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002, and Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999, involving M/s Bharti Airtel Ltd," he said in a written reply. The minister, however, did not provide additional information, saying, "It may not be in the interest of the ongoing investigations to provide any further details."-PTI

Uninor hints at hike in mobile tariff PATNA: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India's (TRAI) spectrum auction recommendations will have an adverse impact on the telecom sector and lead to rise in call charges, a top Uninor official said here. "It will definitely impact the telecom sector in a negative way, if the government accepts the TRAI recommendation on the spectrum auction... mobile users will end up paying more as call charges," Uninor's Managing Director Sigve Brekke told reporters here. Norway's Telenor holds 67.25 per cent stake in the Uninor while the balance is held by realty major Unitech.-PTI

TechBiz 20 India Post

www.indiapost.com

May 25, 2012

Karma Kingdom now on ibibo.com

arma Kingdom, a Facebook game from Singapore based Asvathaa Pte. Ltd is now available in India on the ibibo.com platform. Karma Kingdom is a meditation on positive living, as players build a thriving, healthy island-community. The game encourages players to establish "Personal Social Responsibility," or PSR, in the real-world, with 100% proceeds from charity-related in-game purchases going directly to some of the most important charities around the world, such as Sankara Eye Foundation.

EU issues warning to carbon tax rebels China, India BRUSSELS: The European Union has given China and India a month to comply with a new airline carbon emissions fee coming into effect across the bloc, or face penalties for flights in and out of Europe. EU Commissioner for Climate Change Connie Hedegaard said all EU airlines and "nearly all" world airlines had agreed to hand over emissions data required under a controversial carbon levy on air travel that took effect January 1. "There has been a very, very high level of compliance ...the only exception is Chinese and Indian carriers," she said at a news conference. While some 1,200 airlines had complied with the EU requirements, eight Chinese and two In-

dian airlines representing less than three percent of aviation emissions in the 27-nation bloc had

to report back their data," she said. Asked what would be the consequences should they fail to re-

The two Asian giants have attacked the EU scheme, calling it a unilateral trade levy disguised as an attempt to fight climate change. India last month barred its airlines from complying with the EU carbon tax

Connie Hedegaard

refused. "They have been given till June

spond by June 15, Hedegaard said "if there is no data by the mid-

June deadline then it will be up to member states to apply penalties." The two Asian giants have attacked the EU scheme, calling it a unilateral trade levy disguised as an attempt to fight climate change. India last month barred its airlines from complying with the EU carbon tax, joining China in resistance. The EU says the tax aims to help it achieve a goal of cutting emissions by 20 percent by 2020 and has said no airline will face a bill until 2013 after this year's carbon emissions have been tallied. It says the cost for the airlines is manageable, calculating that the scheme could force the carriers to add between 4.0 euros (USD 5.50) and 24 euros to the price of a longhaul round-trip. -AFP

Austerity measures on way, says Pranab NEW DELHI: Citing the diffi- budgetary exercise for 2012-13 by cult economic situation, Finance Parliament. Minister Pranab Mukherjee has Referring to crisis in eurozone said the government would be re- and its impact on India, sorting to a fresh spell of auster- Mukherjee said, the government ity measures to deal with the prob- would resort to some "unpopulems, but made it clear that he was lar" steps to deal with the fiscal not pressing "panic button". problems. Winding up a debate on Fi"I am going to issue some sort nance Bill, 2012 in the Rajya of austerity measures...whether Sabha, he said, India's growth was still intact He said Vodafone was despite moderation in the Gross clearly told that it has to Domestic Prod- pay tax on its acquisiuct (GDP) which dropped to dis- tion on Hutchison's appointing level stake in the Hutchison of 6.9 per cent in 2011-12, down Essar through a USD from 8.4 per cent 11.2 billion deal which in the previous was signed in Cayman two years. " I n t e r n a - Islands tional situation is difficult. Country after country is witness- people like it or not ... to convey a ing economic crisis... I shall have signal that we are responding to to keep in mind its a difficult the situation", he said, adding, world...I cannot live in a world "We are not pressing panic butwhich is not real", he said. The ton." House later returned the bill markMukherjee, however, did not ing completion of the three-stage spell out the austerity measures.

His statement came on a day when the BSE sensex slipped below the psychological mark of 16,000, mainly impacted by problems in the eurozone countries and other rich nations. Referring to members mentioning about the Finance Minister biting the bullet, Mukherjee said, "I am not hesitating to bite the bul-

Pranab Mukherjee

let if it achieves the goal, not if it is ending in a fiasco." Making it clear that India has been taking steps to attract Foreign Direct Investment, Mukherjee said sometimes decisions are time consuming be-

cause of coalition compulsions. As regards the decision to amend the Income Tax Act with retrospective effect following Supreme Court decision in the Vodafone tax case and the concerns expressed by certain members, he said, "Indian Parliament is omnipotent...It has the power to amend any Article of the Constitution." He said Vodafone was clearly told that it has to pay tax on its acquisition on Hutchison's stake in the Hutchison Essar through a USD 11.2 billion deal which was signed in Cayman Islands. Vodafone had earlier won the tax case in the Supreme Court after it turned down the judgment of the Bombay High Court. The amendment to the I-T Act seeks to tax overseas mergers and acquisitions involving domestic assets. Following the amendment, the British telecom major Vodafone would have to pay Rs 20,300 crore as tax, interest and penalty. Mukherjee said he had even told the British government that retrospective tax amendment undertaken by India was "exactly" the same as was done by the UK earlier.-PTI

TechBiz Post

May 25, 2012

India Post

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India improves global trade logistics performance WASHINGTON: Countries like India, China and the US, which pursued aggressive reforms, have improved their global trade logistics performance despite the slowdown in progress in the sector over the last two years amid the global recession, the World Bank has said. India now ranks 46th in global trade logistics performance, whose top five slots are occupied by Singapore, Hong Kong, Finland, Germany and Netherlands in the list of 155 countries. The United States is ranked ninth, while Japan occupies the eight spot. Countries like Chile, China, India, Morocco, South Africa, Turkey and the US all improved their previous performance, the World Bank said, citing a study based on a comprehensive global survey of international freight forwarders and express carriers, as it released the "Connecting to Compete 2012: Trade Logistics in the Global Economy" report. "Trade logistics is key to economic competitiveness, growth and poverty reduction," Otaviano Canuto, World Bank Vice President for Poverty Reduction and Economic Management (PREM), said. "Unfortunately, the logistics gap between rich and poor countries continues and the convergence trend experienced between 2007 and 2010 has stalled as events like the global recession, and the European debt crisis shifted attention away from logistics reform,"

he said. According to the LPI, high-income economies dominate the top logistics rankings, while the economies with the worst performance are least developed countries that are also often landlocked, small islands or post-conflict states. Nevertheless, logistics perfor-

The survey, which for the first time included environmental indicators, also found that green logistics is quickly gaining prominence in highincome and emerging economies - a positive development since logistics and freight-related activities may account for up to 15 per cent of human carbon dioxide emissions mance is not simply determined by the level of per capita income, as many countries across different income groups have done better than their peers, the Bank said. In the upper-middle income country category, top performers include South Africa, China and Turkey.

In the lower middle income category, India, Morocco and the Philippines have above average performance improvements. And among low-income countries, outperformers included Benin, Malawi and Madagascar, the Bank reported. "Infrastructure stands out as the chief driver of progress in top performers, followed by improvements in logistics services and customs and border management," said Mona Haddad, Sector Manager of the World Bank's International Trade Department. "All top performers show strong cooperation between the public and private sectors, and a comprehensive approach in the development of services, infrastructure and efficient logistics," Haddad added. At a time where food prices are at historic highs, the survey also found that logistics is important for food security. Transport and logistics directly affect the price and local availability of food through the performance and resilience of food chains, especially in African and Middle Eastern countries that depend heavily on food imports. The survey, which for the first time included environmental indicators, also found that green logistics is quickly gaining prominence in high-income and emerging economies - a positive development since logistics and freightrelated activities may account for up to 15 per cent of human carbon dioxide emissions. -PTI

India cannot afford costly crude oil: Pranab NEW DELHI: Amid rising global crude oil prices, Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee has warned of "disastrous consequences" if corrective steps are not taken to deal with the problem as India cannot afford import of large quantities at high prices. "Petroleum prices are increasing by leaps and bounds. We cannot keep them under any carpet. If we do not take corrective measures, we will have to face disastrous consequences," he said. "The question is whether the country would be in position to import 170 million tonnes, if the prices go up unchecked," he said. Mukherjee said he has asked oil experts and Chairman of Prime

Minister's Economic Advisory Council (PMEAC) to find out if the country can reduce its oil import requirement. India imports about 170 million tonnes, while domestic production is about 37-38 million tonnes. While financialisation of oil is taking place, he said, "I cannot entirely pass on the extra burden to the consumers." "Apart from his or her suffering individually, it will have its inflationary impact. That is also an issue which we shall have to address," he said. Mukherjee said, the problem is complex and "to complex problem you cannot expect to have a simplistic solution".

"Therefore, it will require indepth studies, discussions, debate among ourselves to find out a solution and, exactly, the Prime Minister is trying to achieve that," he said. Mukherjee also said another issue which has to be addressed collectively is high incidence of taxes imposed by Centre as well as states. He said the government will bring the Direct Taxes Code (DTC) bill in the monsoon session, saying that there was no need to wait for the Budget. Mukherjee said there was progress on the Goods and Services Tax (GST). GST will overhaul the country's indirect tax regime. -PTI

Australian firm rejects Aditya Birla takeover bid MELBOURNE: Australia's Northern Iron has rejected a takeover bid from Aditya Birla Group citing lower valuation and would be ready to consider a better offer from the Indian conglomerate. A subsidiary of Aditya Birla Group had made an indicative and non-binding bid, offering to buy each share of the Australian entity in the price range of USD 1.28 - 1.35. Noting that the takeover proposal does not completely reflect the company's value, Northern Iron said it has decided to decline the offer. "However, the company board will allow access to certain limited due diligence information so that

Aditya Birla Group may see fit to make a higher indicative, non-binding proposal, if it so wishes," Northern Iron said in a filing to the Australian Stock Exchange. Going by estimates, Aditya Birla Group's indicative offer was worth about USD 500 million. Northern Iron owns the Sydvaranger Iron Project in Norway. The project has a production capacity of 2.8 million tonnes per annum of magnetite concentrate and the firm is also looking to ramp up the same to 5.6 million tonnes per year. According to the filing, the company has also received several indicative concepts and proposals. -PTI

IT base set to make strides in India ContĂd from page 20

"Soon there will be a time when there is no IT strategy, only a business strategy, as leading CIO's are seeing technology as a business enabler and a engine for innovation," he said. The external controller-based storage disk market in India is expected to grow from USD 439.4 million in end-user spending to USD 842 million in 2016. This is the fastest growing segment within the IT infrastructure market.

The domestic enterprise network equipment market, which includes enterprise local area network and wide area network equipment, is expected to grow from USD 861 million in 2012 to USD 1.2 billion in 2016, it said. Gartner also said that Indian IT organizations are making a big shift from a distributed IT setup to a more manageable and efficient centralized model, leading to consolidation of branch and remote IT resources into fewer, but larger data centers.-PTI

TechBiz Post

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May 25, 2012

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Tablet traffic grows 10 times faster Odisha, Posco agree to set up 8 mtpa steel plant than Smartphone NEW DELHI: Adobe Systems Incorporated has announced findings from its most recent Adobe Digital Index report examining how global website traffic and engagement differ when the visitor is on a tablet, smartphone or personal computer (PC). The report found

would be well served to invest in optimizing mobile Web pages for the growing and affluent tablet demographic. Key report findings include: The share of website visits from tablets grew approximately 10 times faster than the rate for smartphones in the first two years after market introduction and grew more than 300

that tablet devices will generate more Web traffic than smartphones by early 2013 and that consumers find browsing websites on tablets nearly as engaging as on PCs. The results indicate that tablets have become a channel very distinct from smartphones. While apps have proven a highly valuable and important component of a mobile strategy, companies

percent in the last year. This rapid growth is driven by both higher rates of tablet shipments and a disproportionately higher number of website visits per tablet than smartphones. Tablets' share of website traffic will exceed smartphone traffic by early 2013 and reach 10 percent of total website traffic in 2014. Although consumers consider

the tablet website experience to be nearly as engaging as that of PCs, they use PCs to visit websites three times as frequently as tablets. "As businesses rethink their digital experiences to include mobile strategies, tablets are emerging as the consumer device of choice," said Brad Rencher, senior vice president and general manager, Digital Marketing Business, Adobe. "Digital CMOs are wise to take a mobile first approach to optimize their digital content and marketing initiatives with a focus on the tablet experience because the consumer demands it." This study significantly expands on the findings from the initial Adobe Digital Index report on the value of tablet users to retail companies released in January of this year, which suggested that in 2011 tablet users spent more per purchase than other online customers. This study analyzed 23 billion visits to the websites of 325 companies from the North America, Western Europe (Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom) and Asia (China, India, South Korea, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand).

Facebook IPO may now mop up $18 billion NEW YORK: Encouraged by Facebook itself is offering 180 strong market demand, social net- million shares, while existing stockworking site Facebook has in- holders would offer 241 million creased the price band and number of shares for the initial public offer that could garner up to USD 18 billion. Facebook's latest move regarding its much-awaited IPO seem to have generated immense interest among potential investors even as global stock markets continue to remain The 27-year-old CEO of volatile amid European debt Facebook - Mark crisis. The social networking ma- Zuckerberg - who started jor has increased the IPO price the company eight-years band to USD 34-48 per share ago in a Harvard dorm from the earlier range of USD 28-35. The overall size of the room, is now planning to offer has been raised 25 per sell 126 million shares cent to over 421 million shares from 337.41 million, according compared to earlier to the company's regulatory fil- level of 71 million ings. In addition, roughly 63 million shares have been earmarked shares. for additional allotment to meet exThe offer is all set to hit the cess demand. This would allow market on May 18. Facebook to raise up to USD 18 Facebook's initial share sale is billion. expected to become the second or

third largest IPO ever in the US behind Visa and possibly General Motors. The 27-year-old CEO of Facebook - Mark Zuckerberg who started the company eight-years ago in a Harvard dorm room, is now planning to sell 126 million shares compared to earlier level of 71 million. Post IPO, he would retain over 55 per cent voting right in the entity. Others investors including Accel Partners and Goldman Sachs Group have also raised the number of shares they're selling in the IPO. Accel would sell 49 million shares, an increase of 28 per cent from earlier quota. Digital Sky Technologies would offload 45.7 million shares, an increase of 74 percent compared to the previous target. Shares are expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the symbol 'FB'. Going by estimates, the social networking site has more than 900 million users worldwide, including in India. -PTI

BHUBANESWAR: Odisha government and Posco- India have agreed to set up an 8 mtpa greenfield steel plant near Paradip, downsizing the earlier plan of establishing a 12 mtpa facility. This was stated by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and PoscoIndia CMD Y W Yoon after a marathon 90-minute discussion over

possibility of expanding the project to the original plan of 12 mtpa if additional land is made available. "Time will tell what will happen in future," Patnaik said replying to a similar question. To a question whether the fresh agreement between the Odisha government and Posco-India

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Posco-India CMD Y W Yoon

the future of the proposed mega would incorporate changes, Yoon steel project which had been hang- said the company had already ing in balance for last seven years. submitted its revised proposal. "We will start the project work The state government would as soon as the state government take a decision on the revised conhands over 2,700 acres of land for tent in the new agreement, he said. setting up of 8 mtpa steel plant," On National Green Tribunal's Yoon told reporters. rejection of environmental clearThe company had so far been ance to the project, the Posco-Ingiven only 500 acres of land for dia CMD said they were in conthe purpose though the govern- sultation with the Ministry of Enment claimed to have acquired vironment and Forest. about 2,000 acres, he said. "Once the problem is sorted Posco-India which had pro- out, we will be able to say someposed to set up a 12 mtpa steel thing in this matter," he said. plant near Paradip at an investment Yoon, however, avoided quesof Rs 52,000 crore, said to be the tion on issues of water and raw biggest FDI in the country, had material which posed hurdle befailed to pick up due to various fore the project. issues including stiff resistance from locals under Ersama block of Posco-India which had Jagatsinghpur district. proposed to set up a 12 Odisha government mtpa steel plant near and the company had signed an MoU on June Paradip at an investment of 22, 2005 to set up a 12 Rs 52,000 crore, said to be mtpa plant. However, the biggest FDI in the counboth the parties agreed to downsize the capac- try, had failed to pick up due ity as the required 4,004 to various issues including acre of land could not be acquired due to op- stiff resistance from locals position from locals. Asked about the company's re"Actually, we held discussion vised investment plan for the 8 on land issues and some other mtpa steel mill, Yoon said "Our in- minor issues. When other issues vestment plan remains un- are discussed, we can say somechanged. However, we will review thing about this," he said. the cost as the construction proSince Odisha government beceeds." lieved in peaceful industrialization, it Though the company is going would acquire rest of the land of the to set up 8 mtpa steel plant in two required 2,700 acres in consultation phases now, Yoon did not rule out of local people, Patnaik said.-PTI

TechBiz Post

May 25, 2012

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Consumer readiness drives mobile payments India Post News Service

NEW DELHI: MasterCard Worldwide has unveiled the MasterCard Mobile Payments Readiness Index (MPRI), an analysis of 34 countries and their readiness to use three types of mobile payments: person to person, mobile web commerce and mobile contactless payments at the point of sale. The MPRI found that while no two markets are the same, consumer readiness is the critical success factor to drive mobile payments adoption around the globe. On the MasterCard Mobile Payments Readiness Index, India achieved a score of 31.5, driven by high scores in the Infrastructure component, moderate scores in Financial Services and Consumer Readiness, and lower scores in overall Environment. Consumer Readiness scores are in line with India's overall ranking on the index-number 21. The MPRI identified Singapore, Canada, the United States, Kenya and South Korea as the most prepared markets. The Index indicates that while it's early stages for mo-

bile payments adoption, all markets globally - either highly scaled and integrated ones like the United Kingdom or compact and technology-driven ones like Singapore are making progress towards reaching an inflection point where mobile devices account for an ap-

preciable share of the payments mix. India's annual investment in telecommunications of $69.7B and a high number of mobile phone subscriptions gives it a leading spot in Infrastructure - the second best on the Index. "The results of the MasterCard Mobile Payments Readiness Index for India are encouraging. There is a marked improvement on the

West Bengal invites investments from Singapore SINGAPORE: West Bengal has invited Singapore-based investors and companies to participate in the state's economic development plans. "We hope that Singaporean companies will realize the tremen-

ergy, tourism, finance and banking, among others". Addressing some 200 businessmen, he pointed to West Bengal's efforts to seek investment in developing food processing and agro-based industries. "With Singapore's expertise in agricultural "With Singapore's expertise packaging and transportation, agri-busiin agricultural packaging ness can be a potential and transportation, agriarea of synergy bebusiness can be a potential tween the two countries," Chatterjee said. area of synergy between The state minister the two countries" said his government was seeking investdous potential of West Bengal," ments in tourism sector, and has said Partha Chatterjee, Minister in identified scenic places such as charge of Commerce and Indus- Sundarbans, Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri tries at the "Beautiful Bengal Sum- and Digha as tourist destinations. mit" held here. "With the state government's viInviting investments in the sion to make Kolkata a national and state's infrastructure projects, international financial hub, there is Chatterjee said: "Our companies immense scope of collaboration beare eager to collaborate in areas tween West Bengal and Singapore such as agri-business, ICT, textile, in terms of finance and banking secengineering, biotechnology, en- tor," Chatterjee said. -PTI

familiarity of P2P payments, mcommerce and POS transactions. The Mobile Payment industry will be largely driven by the young population and India's demographic dividend offers a great prospect", said Mr. T. V. Seshadri, Division President, South Asia, MasterCard Worldwide. The Index also found that in some markets such as Australia, young affluent consumers between the ages of 18 and 34 years old are the most willing to engage in mobile payments as they recognize the value of using mobile payments instead of cash or payment cards. While this demographic was predominantly male in most countries, women showed higher levels of interest in countries such as China, Egypt and the Philippines. In addition, findings of the MPRI reveal that partnerships among the key players in the mobile payments ecosystem are essential to accelerate the commercialization of mobile payments. Cooperation and collaboration among financial institutions, telcos, governments, technology providers and others can foster an environment that enables a market to reach critical mass.

HCL joins hands with Cisco for Indian market

n a first of its kind joint market outreach model, HCL Infosystems Ltd., India's Premier hardware, services and ICT systems integration and distribution company announced its National Partnership with Cisco WebEx, for the Indian market. The SaaS (Software as a Service) offering brought to the market by HCL Infosystems, will be operationalised by Cisco. HCL Infosystems has a strong presence in the Indian market and will offer Cisco WebEx through its extensive distribution channel, covering more than 500 company owned touch points as well as customers in over 4000 towns across the country. Cisco WebEx is the world's leading on-demand collaboration, online meeting, web and video conferencing platform, helping to fulfill communication and collaboration needs of medium to large scale organizations and governments.

India Post

TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Naina Re: Dangerous Ishq 2 Pani Da Rang: Vicky Donor 3 Chokra Jawaan: Ishaqzaade 4 Mar Jayian (Sad): Vicky Donor 5 Jannatein Kahan: Jannat 2 24

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May 25, 2012

6 Pareshaan: Ishaqzaade 7

Dhadhang Dhang : Rowdy Rathore

Aa Re Pritam Pyare : Rowdy Rathore

atrina Kaif, the gorgeous babe of Bollywood, is enjoying super stardom working with the three leading Khans of Bollywood Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan and Salman Khan. She is working with all three Khans of Hindi cinema in three different movies. And interestingly, all the three films are Yash Raj projects. She is working with Salman in YRF's Ek Tha Tiger. With Shah Rukh, she is working in Yash Chopra's return to direction - the untitled romantic venture. Katrina is going to work with Aamir Khan in YRF's Dhoom 3. She is quite excited and feels super proud that she got the chance to be the leading lady of these three Khans of Hindi celluloid. When asked her who is her favorite Khan, she responds saying all three are wonderful and she loves working with all of them. It is an honor to be the leading woman of them. Among these three, Katrina has been the girlfriend of Salman Khan and still shares a good friendly rapport with him. Katrina is really at the peak of her career and is enjoying every bit of it.

CASTING COUSINS

ousins Ranbir Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor are ruling the Bollywood scene these days. But we have not seen these two stars working together in a movie. There might have been the efforts by filmmakers but guess, they do not want to be paired as romantic lovers on screen. Now they will be seen sharing the screen space together. All credit goes to Zoya Akhtar who has convinced the two to work in her movie. They will be portraying brother and sister. Zoya did really work hard to get this job done. She has been working on the script since long and now she is all set with the script. When she read out the script to Kareena, she instantly liked it and agreed to do the film. Zoya then reached out to Ranbir Kapoor who too

9 Duaa: Shanghai 10 Morcha: Shanghai

agreed being the onscreen brother of Kareena Kapoor. After the success of her movie 'Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara', she will have this film going on floors by the end of this year. And the moviegoers will surely like these cousins sharing the screen space together. The idea is brilliant and it will pay Zoya at the box office.

Bollywood

May 25, 2012

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WANTED

RISK

e is tasting success film after film, but Emraan Hashmi is not willing to fit into the category of Bollywood's A-list stars. He doesn't want to play it safe and says he is ready to take risks just as he has done with every project so far. "I have never really wanted to sort myself and other actors by that list. I have always done films that I believed in and yes it is very important for box office collections to do well. I have never really wanted to belong," the 33-yearold said. "I don't want to get safer with the success of 'Jannat 2'. I want to do riskier films and make them a success," he added. He also admits that the masses' verdict matters over the classes' opinion for him. "I hold the verdict of the people who watch films cinematically in single screens very close to my heart. I go to single screens to watch the reaction of the people. For me that is a big reward. I have always wanted to be a strong mass actor," said Emraan.

Bankable actor

arineeti Chopra holds three degrees in finance and always dreamt of becoming an investment banker. But global recession in 2009 changed her future, and she landed up as an actor. "I have done triple honors in Business, Finance and Economics. I have grown up wanting to be a banker, so studying finance was an automatic thing," the 23-year-old said. "I went to England and studied in Manchester Business School. Then I went to London because I wanted to work in an investment bank. But recession hit in 2009 and I wasn't getting jobs and it was not because of my qualification, it was because they couldn't give jobs to who were not British nationals," she added. That's when she had to return home. "I came back to India and I wanted to do an internship for six months and I happened to come to the Yash Raj Films (YRF) office and I was very intrigued by this huge studio in Mumbai. So I said let me try," said Parineeti, who made her debut with YRF's "Ladies vs Ricky Bahl" in 2011. Parineeti, who happens to be actress Priyanka Chopra's cousin, says her close proximity with the profession increased her interest in acting. "I used to work with actors at very close quarters. My respect for the profession increased, I fell in love with acting, I loved what actors used to do and I always felt like I could do this and I could do this well. So I decided to become an actor," she said.

ANOTHER O

GUY?

ne film old Nargis Fakhri is more famous because of her link ups. There were rumors about the curvy sexy beauty romancing Shahid Kapoor. Both got cozy in Goa on the occasion of Shahid Kapoor's birthday bash and even post-birthday on the beaches of Goa. Prior to birthday, both took the same flight and enjoyed romantic travel together. Both the stars however denied the reports and the link up. During her debut vehicle 'Rockstar', she was romantically linked with Ranbir Kapoor. But now another guy has stepped into the life of Nargis - a none too famous actor Shyan Munshi. They were spotted at a restaurant in Mumbai. They came hand in hand and sat in a corner in the restaurant and then started getting cozy without caring about the people sitting over there. The sources claim that there must be romance between the two because the way they got cozy with each other that showed off the hidden story.

Payal Wadhawan India Post News Service

THOUSAND OAKS, CA: Beyondancing is a Bollywood dance group that volunteers for fundraisers and other charity events at no cost. The Beyondancers believe that age is no bar when it comes to pursuing their passion for dance and serving the community. These students of Beyondancing class are doctors, engineers, house wives, students, mothers and even grandmothers between age of 18-65.

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The group was started by Payal Wadhawan in May 2011 in Thousand Oaks, CA. Payal currently holds the title of Mrs. Asia USA 2011 (II Runner up) and also was

fun to share with them whatever little knowledge I had about dancing. After completing my education I took formal training from Shaimak Davar Institute for a year "she said.

entitled as Mrs. India Globe 2010. "I have been passionate about dancing since I was a kid. I started teaching dance to little kids when I was in high school and it was a lot of

"In year 2009, I volunteered to participate and choreograph dances for fundraisers organized by India Friends Association, Thousand Oaks and Sunshine

DANCING FOR A CAUSE

Assisted Living, Orange County. The immense satisfaction that came out of that experience inspired me to start my own Bollywood dance classes" said Payal. Currently, she teaches Bollywood dance at Hillcrest Arts center in Thousand Oaks and Starmakers Dance Academy in West Hills. Once the students are well prepared they become eligible to be a part of the troupe that performs for various fundraisers. The students of Beyondancing come from all walks of life and age is absolutely no bar. She has students from age twenty to sixty. "It is amazing to see some of the ladies become so confident and active within a couple of classes. Just to see them dancing with all dedication and passion inspires me even more to continue my effort. And most importantly, the simple fact that our

May 25, 2012 dance performance for a fundraising event is going to help someone somewhere in some form makes the whole experience of dancing even more beautiful and soulful. Beyondancing has performed for more than twenty events in past year including Indian Republic Day festival - Mission Hills, Northridge Hospital medical center Northridge, Kundirana Fundraiser for Vietnamese underprivileged kids- Hollywood, ZAMFEST Kids Festival- Long Beach, Mumbai Sister Cities- Los Angeles, Indian Independence Day festival - Van Nuys, Japan Earthquake Relief Fundraiser - Orange County, Pink Ribbon Cancer Association Fundraiser - Irvine. "I joined Beyondancing nearly a year

ago and since then it has been a wonderful experience. Not only do I get to dance to popular Bollywood numbers but also get some exercise. But, I get the most satisfaction out of socializing with friends and just getting away for a little bit from the usual pressures of work and home. It helps that we have a fantastic choreographer" said Sujata Sontakke who is a Research Manager by profession and a mother of two.

"The best part is that there is no feeling of the pain of exercising because you are having too much fun dancing. It's a very interactive class. You get to know most of the people you dance with and even get chances to perform with themâ&#x20AC;? "The best part is that there is no feeling of the pain of exercising because you are having too much fun dancing. It's a very interactive class. You get to know most of the people you dance with and even get chances to perform with them for fundraisers, if you wish so." said Rina Sharma. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 27

May 25, 2012

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Aishwarya named best dressed celeb superstar Shahrukh Khan is third. Hrithik Roshan got 18 percent votes, while Dhoni bagged 16 and SRK 15 percent votes, said a Yahoo! India statement. Totally, 1,223 respondents took the survey conducted in April. Three-fourths of the survey respondents comprised the youth aged between 18-34 years. Interestingly, 42 percent of the participation came from users not residing in the top eight metros - clearly reflecting the

ollywood star Hrithik Roshan has been voted as the ultimate style icon in an online survey conducted by Yahoo! India, while Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan were declared the most stylish celebrity couple. On the list of ultimate style icons cricketer M.S. Dhoni features at number two and

Dancing for a cause

On the list of ultimate style icons cricketer M.S. Dhoni features at number two and superstar Shahrukh Khan is third. Hrithik Roshan got 18 percent votes

Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 26

expanding reach of the Internet in tier two cities, and the continued fascination of Indians with glamour and glitterati. In the poll, Amitabh Bachchan is declared the best power dresser and his daughterin-law Aishwarya Rai is named the best dressed celeb on the red carpet, while Malaika Arora Khan the most stylish celebrity mom title. Aamir Khan is declared the celebrity for whom technology and style go hand-inhand, Rekha with the traditional Indian fashion sense, Vidya Balan with the most unique fashion sense.

When we asked Ragini Saxena, who is one of the core members of Beyondancing group about her recommendation regarding who should join this class, her response was- "I would recommend this class to anyone who has a passion to dance, regardless of sex, age, size, color, or experience level! " "This Bollywood dance class is a mixture of various dance styles woven in a common thread which is "Bollywood" and the songs that are selected depict various colors of India, states of India & its festivals. We get to wear colorful and bright Indian traditional costumes when we perform. We have Payal

our awesome choreographer to thank for taking us through this wonderful journey of rediscovering ourselves by showcasing our new found talent in dancing "said Richa Gupta who is also a part of Beyondancing troupe. "I am so thankful to these ladies who volunteer their time for extra rehearsals and practice sessions that we have before a performance. Most of the ladies are working and have kids. Dancing brought us together and community service keeps us together. Beyondancing really goes beyond dancing for we dance for a cause and stay connected with our roots!"

May 25, 2012

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MUMBAI: Kolkata Knight Riders' co-owner and Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan has been banned for life from Wankhede Stadium after getting into an alleged scuffle with Mumbai Cricket Association officials as the IPL continued to be dogged by controversies. Within days of a TV sting operation that implicated five players in spot-fixing, the IPL was hit by another furor during KKR's match against Mumbai Indians with one of its franchise owners in the spotlight. The MCA officials have lodged a police complaint against Khan for his alleged misbehavior at the stadium and decided to ban him for life from entering the premises. "We have lodged a complaint against him at the Marine Drive Police station (for his alleged misbehavior against MCA officials)," informed MCA secretary Nitin Dalal. The Bollywood star had an altercation with the security and officials of the association after the Knight Riders had swamped Mumbai Indians, according to MCA treasurer Ravi Savant. "He misbehaved and abused the MCA security personnel as well as MCA officials, including our president Vilasrao Deshmukh, after the IPL match (between KKR and Mumbai Indians). We have decided to ban him for life from entering the stadium in future," said Savant, who alleged that the actor was in a totally inebriated state. But there was confusion over whether the actor has actually been banned with IPL Chairman Rajiv Shukla saying a final decision on the matter would only be taken after getting the version of all the involved parties.

Inebriated SRK creates scene, banned from stadium

"I will take the version of the MCA, Shah Rukh Khan and the police before talking about the issue," he told reporters in New Delhi. "The decision on ban is taken by the Working Committee so I will speak to MCA President Vilasrao Deshmukh on this. I have to take the version of all the parties involved and then speak," Shukla added. Giving the background to what happened after the KKR's 32-run rout of MI at the Wankhede stadium, Savant said Khan and his posse of bodyguards had gone up

to the dressing room and then come down and started to step on to the ground. "The MCA security personnel told them they cannot do so as the match was over which led to Shah Rukh abusing them as well as the MCA officials. There was manhandling too by his people. We have decided to ban him from all future matches at the stadium. We are also going to lodge a police complaint against him," said Savant. Savant also said that one of the members of the MCA's managing

A peeved Shah Rukh Khan argues with a security guard, Mumbai Indians v Kolkata Knight Riders, IPL, Mumbai, May 16

committee who is also a top police official, Iqbal Sheikh, tried to intervene and pacify the actor but could not do so as he was in no mood to listen to anyone. Asked whether MCA would lodge a complaint with the BCCI over one of the IPL team's owner's behavior, Savant said all the altercation had taken place in the presence of IPL CEO Sundar Raman

and BCCI's media manager Devendra Prabhudesai. "Of course we will lodge a complaint with the BCCI also," said Savant. Meanwhile, BCCI Chief Administrative Officer Ratnakar Shetty was guarded in his take on the matter but conceded that the MCA officials are furious over an "unprovoked incident".-PTI

Mandira Bedi to adopt girl as birthday gift MUMBAI: While people might deliberate over candles and cakes and themes for their first-born's first birthday, Mandira Bedi and director hubby Raj Kaushal have something special in mind for their baby Vir, who turns one on June 17. They are going to do something that's been on their mind for while now. "We're going to adopt a baby girl," she gushes, excitedly. "We want Virto have a little sister. We will be applying to an adoption agency when he turns one. It's a decision Raj and I made even before we got married - we were very clear that we wanted to adopt a

girl. It takes a month to a year for paperwork and other things to come through. As we wanted a small age difference between both

marriage and the baby came into our lives after so long as I was delaying it," she informs, adding, "Now when I keep telling Raj that

"I have to be around him all the time and if I have to leave home for a few hours it becomes unbearable. Vir has given us a new reason for living" the kids, this is the perfect time. Guess I'm all set for the second one now," she says. Mandira admits it was she who postponed having her son. "It's 'been twelve-and-a half years of

I just can't imagine how it would be without Vir, he wants to just beat me," she laughs. For now, she says her hands are full with her tot. "I have to be around him all the time and if I have to leave home

Mandira Bedi with Vir

for a few hours it becomes unbearable. Vir has given us a new reason for living," she says. With Mother's Day having just passed, Mandira also says she realized how much her son has taught her. "After a long day of being away from him I come back

and realize how there's something new about him - a new face, pout or cry. And just yesterday Raj said the baby was going to teach me one thing I lacked - patience! I was so fiery around the house and Vir has made me calmer and mellower," she admits.

29 India post

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May 25, 2012

et amidst a tranquil and serene atmosphere, Pratihara era and also in the 15th and 16th cenJageshwar houses nearly 200 temples built turies. in honor of Shiva Mahadeva. Considered to The Mahamrityunjaya temple seems to be the represent one of the 12 jyotirlingas in India, oldest and dates back to the 8th century AD. Jageshwar attracts thousands of devotees during The temples of Surya, Navagraha and Shivratri very year. They are very sacred centers Neelkantheshvara are of late Katyuri age. It is for the worship of Shiva and are said to have Tantric said that originally four hundred temples existed powers also. here, of which only about one hundred and eight The town is situated about 34 km from Almora have survived. town, on the way to Pithoragarh and Naini. The place is marked for Jageshwar houses nearly 200 its peaceful environment. It is temples built in honor of Shiva embellished with tall deciduous deodar trees and winding river Mahadeva. Considered to repreJata Ganga, which finds its way sent one of the 12 jyotirlingas in to the side of the temple complex. The continuous chain of India, Jageshwar attracts thousnowcapped mountain ranges sands of devotees during loom large over this beautiful temple site. Often, pious men from Shivratri very year the Himalayas come down here to meditate. Many travelers are also tempted to sit Tourist attractions: There is a gigantic temple down for some meditation in these portals of pi- structure known as Dandeshwar temple, dediety. cated to one of the aspects of Lord Shiva. The History: History tells that during the 4th and temple complex is charming and antiquated with 5th centuries AD, when the Gupta emperors held fine samples of ancient iconography. Apart from sway, the Kumaon hills were being governed by an 18th-century icon of the dancing Shiva, there an independent dynasty of Katyuri kings. They is a huge iron bell at the gateway of the temple. selected this site for building temples. The temples The bell forms an important link between the originally constructed during the Gupta period local deity known as Gollu Devta and Lord were renovated by the rulers of the Ghand dy- Shiva. nasty in the 7th century AD. Numerous temples Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 30 were constructed or restored during the Gurjara

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Goa seeks Navy land for airport expansion PANAJI: The Goa government has sought intervention of the Prime Minister's Office in releasing 3.5 acres of land at Dabolim airport, which is with the Indian Navy, that will help the Airports Authority of India to undertake expansion of the airport. Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar who discussed the issue with the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during his Delhi visit told reporters, "This land is required for the creation of fuel bunkers and parking slots. Due to shortage of parking, the planes have to go back to Mumbai for night halt," he said. Although the Navy runs and maintains the airport, the expansion project is to be undertaken by the AAOI. The state has also sought relaxation from the Centre to allow certain zones to be exempted from sound pollution norms to help tourism industry. Parrikar said he has apprised the Prime

Minister about the issues faced by tourism industry due to implementation of Noise Pollution Act, which makes it mandatory to stop the music by 10 pm. The government can identify certain areas within the state, which are far away from habitations, where music can be allowed till late night, Parrikar said. When asked whether such a relaxation would promote rave party culture, he said that demarcation of these areas would help the law enforcement machinery to keep a watch. "Special tourism zones can be created in areas where people do not reside. Relaxation in playing music can be given in these areas so that people are not disturbed," Parrikar said. He also said that the present sound pollution norms were affecting traditional Catholic weddings, which usually continue till late night. -PTI

India, Japan to strengthen cooperation in tourism NEW DELHI: In a bid to strengthen cooperation in tourism sector, India and Japan are exploring setting up of a joint working group for the purpose. "We are for strengthening cooperation in tourism sector between India and Japan," Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahai said during his meeting with Japan's Vice-Minister for Tourism, Ken Kuda here. Sahai said both the countries have tremendous scope to develop tourism infrastructure with mutual help. He also suggested signing of an agreement for setting up a joint working group on tourism cooperation between India and Japan during the meeting. Recalling the age-old historic and cultural ties shared by the two countries, Sahai said "it would be appropriate if we strengthen our ties by promoting bilateral tourism". While appreciating the assistance extended by Japan in developing the Buddhist

circuit in India, Sahai suggested inclusion of Bodhgaya in the same. He was of the view that golf and wellness tourism promoted by India can be of great interest to Japanese tourists. The visiting minister expressed hope that more and more tourists from both the sides will visit each other's country. Kuda said both the countries have potential to strengthen bilateral ties by promoting tourism and it can be linked with overall cooperation between both the countries. Sahai recalled his visit to Sapporo Snow Festival in February this year and said that Japan is an important source market for Indian tourism with tremendous in bound tourism potential. More than 1,68,000 Japanese tourists visited India during 2011, he said. Sahai suggested that the two countries can promote an exchange program wherein the tour operators can visit each other's country to map the true tourism potential. -PTI

J & K to create new tourism infrastructure SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government will create new tourism infrastructure and upgrade the existing one during this fiscal in the state at a cost of Rs 23 crore, Tourism Minister Nawang Rigzin Jora said here. Inaugurating several projects in Srinagar, Jora said an amount of Rs 19 crore is being spent on cre-

ating new assets in the shape of budget accommodation at Yusmarg, Sonamarg, Gulmarg and Cheshmashashi tourist resorts. He said the JKTDC is spending Rs four crore for upgradation of its infrastructure throughout the state during the current fiscal to provide quality facilities to visiting tourists. The gutted restaurant at

Tangmarg resort is being reconstructed at a cost of Rs 60 lakh to provide quality hospitality and cuisine facilities to the tourists. The construction of the new restaurant would be completed in this fiscal, he said. The minister said the reconstruction of Patnitop Club, which was earlier under the occupation of security forces, is also being

taken up at a cost of Rs 65 lakh. He said 40 rooms of Hotel Heemal have been upgraded by expending Rs 45 lakh, besides the dilapidated seven huts at Cheshmashahi have been reconstructed with an expenditure of Rs 60 lakh by the corporation for facilitation of tourists. The minister inaugurated the much-needed Tourist reception

Centre (TRC) at Cheshmashahi resort here. Jora also inaugurated 10 upgraded rooms, conference hall and dormitory, completed at an expenditure of Rs 50 lakh in Lala Rukh hotel in the city here. The Lala Rukh restaurant was also thrown open by Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC) for public after a gap of 20 years. -PTI

Jageshwar: 200 sacred temples for worship of Shiva Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 29

Tradition - Most of the shrines are dedicated to Shiva, who is addressed by diverse names. Jageshwara is a version of Yogisvara (Lord of Yogis). There are other shrines with variegated names of Shiva like Dandeshavara, Nilakantheshvara, Mahamrityunjaya, etc. Other temples dedicated to Surya (the Sun God), Navadurga (nine manifestations of the goddess Durga), Kalika, Pushtidevi and Kubera are also present here. These shrines were built by professional builders by the name of Shivism. They belonged to the Lakulish sect. The jyotirlinga at Jageshwar is visited by thousands of Shiva devotees who come to offer prayers during Shivratri. Architecture - The temples belong to the simple Nagara style variety. There is a tall curvilinear spire shikhara, surmounted by an amalaka (capstone) and a kalasha crown. The square sanctum sanctorum has its entrance through a carved doorway. Most of the temples have the stone lingams. Impressive stone images

are seen around the altar. Two ashtadhatu (an alloy of eight metals) images are outstanding. Particular mention may also be made of a highly impressive image of Ganesha. The Ekamukhalinga is one of the rarest specimens in northern India. There are two magnificent life-sized dwarapalas (door guardians) outside the Jagannath temple. Fairs & festivals: The famous Pooram Festival (April/May) is celebrated at the Vaddakkunnath Temple. There are nightlong fireworks and a magnificent elephant procession. Shivratri (in March/ April) is also celebrated with great fanfare. During Onam, the harvest

festival (August/September), the entire state wears a festive look. Places around: About 3 km uphill Jageshwar is a small temple called Vriddha Jageshwar. This temple is said to be the abode of Shiva, before he came down to Jageshwar. The fascinating aspect about Jageshwar and Vriddha Jageshwar is the unremitting peace they emanate. There are caves all along the countryside. How to reach: The nearest railway station, at Kathgodam, is 135 km away. Jageshwar is just 34 km by road from Almora. Many buses and taxis ply regularly. One can also come via Nainital, which is 100 km southwest of Jageshwar.

May 25, 2012

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S Korea to help Pak revive religious tourism ISLAMABAD: A group of South Koreans, including monks and a former army chief, has chipped in to help revive religious tourism at famous Buddhist sites in militancy-hit Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of northwest Pakistan. A 19-member delegation from South Korea launched the "Gandhara Peace Caravan" by participating in religious rituals at the Dharmarajika Stupa built by Emperor Ashoka at Taxila in the 2nd century AD. The delegation, on an official visit at the invitation of KhyberPakhtunkhwa Tourism Minister Aqil Shah, is led by monk Hwa Ran and former army chief Park Hee Doo. It includes scholars, academics and tour operators. The Awami National Party-led government in KhyberPakhtunkhwa has been making a concerted push to preserve and promote tourism at the province's numerous Buddhist sites. Monk Hwal-An-Han told reporters that the South Korean delegation's visit will play a key role in reviving religious tourism in Pakistan. He said the team would con-

vince others in South Korea to visit Pakistan for pilgrimage as they were satisfied with the security arrangements. The government and foreign missions in Pakistan should join hands to preserve and restore the "great spiritual inheritance at Takht Bahi Buddhist remains" to

Collective efforts should be made to revive the glory of the Gandhara era by setting up a research centre for Gandhara art promote peace and harmony, the monk was quoted as saying by the Dawn newspaper. "Everyone (in South Korea) wants to come here but they are only scared due to the security situation," former army chief Park Hee Doo said. Lee Won Jong, secretary general of the South Korean Gandhara Cultural Association, said South Korean tourists and pilgrims

would love to visit sites at Taxila and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, which was at the heart of the ancient Gandhara civilization. Easter Park, another official of the Association, said collective efforts should be made to revive the glory of the Gandhara era by setting up a research centre for Gandhara art and Buddhist philosophy. The Association planned to revive the 3,000-year-old university of Taxila with modern facilities, she said. Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Tourism Department official Zahoor Durrani said the South Korean delegation was invited to the province so that it could assess the security situation in the province and persuade others to visit the historic and religious sites. The South Korean delegation visited the historic Julian monastery, the Taxila University and Sirkap, the second city of the ancient Gandhara civilization. A sizeable number of Hindus and Sikhs visit religious sites in Pakistan every year though tourism at Buddhist sites in the country's northwest has suffered due to militancy and widespread violence. -PTI

J&K to form golf development authority SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Government will soon set up a Golf Development and Management Authority for securing the existing infrastructure and promoting the sport in the state. "A Golf Development and Management Authority will be set up in the state to maintain, create, develop and secure the Golf Course infrastructure besides promoting Golf activities," Tourism Minister Nawang Rigzin Jora said at a meeting here. Jora said the Chief Minister will be the ex-officio Chairman of the authority while Minister for Tourism will be the Vice Chairman. The Minister of state for Tourism, Chief Secretary, Director General Police, Principal Secretary to

Chief Minister, Administrative Secretaries of Planning and Finance

There will be 15 members in the Authority, out of which four members will be nominated by the chairman, two from the eminent golfers and two from other sportspersons Departments, Administrative Secretary Tourism, Directors of Tour-

ism Kashmir and Jammu, Managing Director cum Chief Executive Officer of the Authority will be the members, the minister said. The meeting also discussed other issues related to the creation of the Authority including the nomination and disqualification of the members. There will be 15 members in the Authority, out of which four members will be nominated by the chairman, two from the eminent golfers and two from other sportspersons. The members will have a two-year term, he added. "The creation of the Authority is aimed to promote Golf activities in the State which can go a long way in boosting tourism sector," Jora said. -PTI

Second phase of rural tourism scheme in HP SHIMLA: The Himachal Tourism department would soon launch the second phase of a scheme titled 'Har Gaon Ki Kahani' which won accolades for developing tourism in rural areas, Chief Secretary S Roy said. Roy, who also holds the charge of Tourism, said the Deputy Commissioners have been asked to complete the selection of villages on the basis of stories received at the district headquarters by June 15 next. The successful 'Tum Mujhe Bhula na paoge' (Unforgettable Himachal) campaign in Hindi has also been dubbed in English and other languages for promotion of tourism overseas. Roy expressed hope that the

target of 15 per cent contribution to GDP from tourism would be exceeded by 2020 and Himachal would be known as "tourism state"

The successful 'Tum Mujhe Bhula na paoge' (Unforgettable Himachal) campaign in Hindi has also been dubbed in English of the country and maximum employment would be generated in this sector. -PTI

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In Brief Kan. immigration measure rejected in budget talks TOPEKA, Kan.: A proposal to require government contractors in Kansas to use the federal E-Verify database to ensure employees aren't illegal immigrants won't survive legislative negotiations over the state budget. House and Senate negotiators have concluded they don't want to include a major policy change in the spending plan for the fiscal year beginning July 1. The proposal would require companies having contracts with the state worth more than $50,000 to submit a notarized statement saying they use E-Verify to check the status of new employees. During a debate last week, Rep. Anthony Brown, a Eudora Republican, persuaded House members to add the proposal to the chamber's proposed budget, imposing the policy for only a year. Senators did not consider the idea before approving their version of the budget. -AP

'Zero tolerance' for illegal immigration? HOUSTON: Since December 2005, an Eagle Pass golf course on the banks of the Rio Grande has been a laboratory for a U.S. Border Patrol experiment called ``Operation Streamline.'' Previously, illegal immigrants tramped across the course and into the hands of Border Patrol agents, knowing they wouldn't face jail. With the experiment, U.S. officials prosecuted and imprisoned the immigrants before returning them home as criminal convicts under a ``zero tolerance'' policy. -AP

ICE sweep in GA, NC and SC nets 80 arrests ATLANTA: Federal immigration officials have arrested 80 immigrants with criminal convictions in a three-day targeted operation in Georgia and the Carolinas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement says Operation Cross Check lasted three days. ICE says all 80 people taken into custody had previous criminal convictions, many of them for serious or violent offenses. ICE arrested 33 people in Georgia, 32 in North Carolina and 15 in South Carolina. They are natives of Mexico, Guatemala and the Dominican Republic and are being held in ICE custody pending immigration proceedings or deportation. -AP

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Shift on marriage energizes gay activists ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico: President Barack Obama's shift to support gay marriage is energizing young Hispanic voters who have been working side-by-side with gay activists in their push for immigration reform. Details on page 37

Expanded federal fingerprint program opposed in NY BUFFALO, N.Y.: A government program that has state or local police share fingerprints of the people they arrest with federal immigration officials drew protests in New York, a day ahead of its expansion statewide. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is seeing the ``Secure Communities Program'' as a key tool for finding and deporting the criminal illegal aliens that are its priority, the agency said. To opponents, the informationsharing program, introduced in 2008, invites racial profiling, deports people for minor crimes and actually makes communities less secure by cooling relations between immigrants and police. Those concerns led Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo to suspend New York's participation in the program last June after about half the state's counties had adopted it. But a law enforcement official familiar with the program said it will launch in the rest of New York, along with Massachusetts, Arkansas and Wyoming. In New York City, about 100 immigrants and activists rallied in protest in front of the Jacob Javits Federal Building. Demonstrators held signs that said ``No to Secure Communities. Mobilize to stop the deportations!'' and ``Immigrants built this country.'' Emma Vidals, a 50-year-old Mexi-

Immigrants demonstrate against Secure Communities program during a rally last summer. The controversial program is expected to be activated across New York State

Under Secure Communities, the FBI shares the prints with the Homeland Security Department to check them against immigration files. Immigration officials then decide whether to pursue removal or other action can immigrant who has lived illegally in the United States for 20 years, said she is afraid to call the police. ``I felt safer before. Now with Secure Communities it will be more unsafe for me,'' said Vidals, who lives in Staten Island and works cleaning homes. ``Less immigrants will call the police. There will be more domestic violence.'' The Associated Press reported

in February 2011 that President Barack Obama's administration pitched Secure Communities participation to local officials as voluntary, until some refused to participate. Then the federal government made it mandatory. Last August, ICE Director John Morton sent a letter to governors terminating agreements with states to clarify that such agreements

weren't necessary as the agency moved to implement the program nationwide by the end of next year. Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer predicted the program would lead to deportations of thousands of productive and legal immigrants while costing the state millions of dollars. ``A state's participation in a program that targets its own residents should be left up to local officials and not dictated from on high by Washington,'' Stringer said. Communities routinely send fingerprints taken from people booked into jails or prison to state agencies for criminal records checks and states forward the prints to the FBI to check criminal histories. Under Secure Communities, the FBI shares the prints with the Homeland Security Department to check them against immigration files. Immigration officials then decide whether to pursue removal or other action. ICE credits the program for the deportation of more than 135,000 convicted criminal aliens. Officials said they've made changes to the program in response to states' concerns, including developing civil rights training for police and creating a public advocate position. As of May 11, Secure Communities was active in 2,792 jurisdictions in 48 states, with complete coverage in 40 states, ICE said. -AP

Opportunity for States wanting immigrants GARY ENDELMAN & CYRUS MEHTA

nyone in favor of federal preemption of state immi gration laws, especially Arizona's SB 1070, was disappointed with the way the oral arguments before the Supreme Court justices on April 25, 2012 turned out in Arizona v. US. It appears that the core provision of SB 1070, Section 2(B), which mandates police officers to determine the immigration status of anyone they stop if they have a "reasonable suspicion" that the person in "unlawfully present in the United States" may be upheld even if other pro-

visions are preempted. And while it is obvious that this provision would lead to racial profiling, the case that the United States brought against Arizona is more about whether federal immigration law preempts 2(B) and other provisions. Both conservative and liberal justices did not think so since 2(B) was not creating a new state immigration law. All it does is to allow police officers to determine if someone was unlawfully present by inquiring about that person's status with the federal Department of Homeland

Security. Whether this would lead to the incarceration of both citizens and lawfully present non-citizens did not seem to concern the justices as the inquiry regarding immigration status would be made in conjunction with another state offense, such as speeding or driving without a license. Moreover, even without SB 1070, the justices noted that the federal government has allowed state enforcement personnel to do much the same thing, especially through its Secure Communities program or through cooperation

in the "investigation, apprehension or detention of aliens in the United States" under INA Â§ 287(g). The colloquy, below, between Chief Justice Roberts and Solicitor General Verrilli during oral argument gives us some insight into why 2(B) is likely to be upheld: CHIEF JUSTICE ROBERTS: Right. So, apart from Section 3 and Section 5, take those off the table, you have no objection to Section 2? GENERAL VERRILLI: We do, Your Honor. But, before I take 3 Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 36

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Ammiano's 'Trust Act 2.0' to counteract deportation India Post News Service

SACRAMENTO, CA: As the imposition of the scandal-plagued "Secure" Communities or S-Comm deportation program in Massachusetts and New York spurs fresh controversy, California Assemblymember Tom Ammiano (D-SF) formally introduced a revamped version of AB 1081, the Trust Act, to reform California's participation in the program. The new incarnation of AB 1081, which captured national attention last year, formally appeared "in print" and will pick up where the previous version left off, in the state Senate. The bill is expected to be heard in the Senate Public Safety committee next month. The new Trust Act seeks to restore community trust in law enforcement and ease S-Comm's unfair burden on local governments, who are pressured to hold for extra time even survivors of domestic violence for deportation. The bill comes as deportations through the program in Califor-

nia exceeded the grim figure of 70,330 as of March 31 of this year. Nearly seven in ten of those deported did not fall into Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE's) most serious category. In a statement, Assemblymember Ammiano commented: "Despite promises of 'reform,' each month, the terrible toll this program is taking on our safety, on our local governments, and on our communities, continues to rise. In just four months S-Comm deportations in California shot up from 63,000 to 70,000. Behind each one of those numbers is a human being. How many more parents, workers, crime victims and witnesses will ICE tear from our communities? Turning police into immigration agents is at the heart of the hateful laws in Alabama, Arizona and elsewhere - and it's time to say, "enough." It's got to stop. The new Trust Act is a crucial step toward rebuilding trust between police and immigrant communities and restoring some balance to a completely broken system.

The bill: â&#x20AC;˘ Sets a clear, minimum standard for local governments not to submit to ICE's requests to detain people for deportation unless the individual has a serious or violent felony conviction. â&#x20AC;˘ Guards against profiling and

The bill comes as deportations through the program in California exceeded the grim figure of 70,330 as of March 31 of this year wrongful detention of citizens and crime victims and witnesses. Localities that detain individuals with serious convictions for deportation would develop plans to ensure citizens are not subject to immigration holds, guard against profiling, and ensure crime victims and witnesses are not discouraged from reporting crimes

Immigration program foes seek local help SEATTLE: First, it was thought the full activation of the federal immigrant jail check program was up to the states. Then in Washington State, maybe it was a county decision. But despite objections by some state governors, local police agencies and immigrant rights groups, the federal government has been fully activating the program Secure Communities throughout the nation, including Washington state. The decision by the Department of Homeland Security to bypass local and state agencies to collect the fingerprints necessary has left immigrant rights groups with few options left. So now, to challenge the federal program, some are turning to their local officials. In Seattle, immigrant rights and domestic violence groups have begun lobbying King County executive Dow Constantine to halt honoring a key component of the program. They want King County to stop holding suspected illegal immigrants in the county jail for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a practice called ``detainers.'' At least two other counties Cook County in Illinois and Santa Clara County in California in the

country have begun ignoring detainers. San Francisco is also declining to hold illegal immigrants for the federal government. Cook County's decision, followed by a publicized case of an illegal immigrant who committed a crime after being released, prompted a sharp rebuttal from the ICE's director, who said the county was compromising public safety. Secure Communities uses fingerprint analysis to identify illegal immigrants in county jails. Local jurisdictions send the fingerprints of peopled booked in jail to the FBI. Now, ICE uses the FBI database to cross check with its own databases. ``ICE places detainers on aliens arrested on criminal charges to ensure that dangerous criminals are not released from prisons/jails and into our communities,'' said Andrew Munoz, ICE spokesman in Seattle, in a statement. ``Even though some aliens may be arrested on minor criminal charges, they may also have more serious criminal backgrounds which disguise their true danger to society.'' Immigrant advocates, though, say the program leads to racial profiling and lands too many people without criminal records in detention. They also say that it leads people to fear local police depart-

ments and hurts public trust. Some U.S. citizens have also been caught in the dragnet. Law enforcement agents in support of the program have said the program adds another layer of security. But in an email urging supporters to write to Constantine, Jorge Baron of the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project said: ``King County has a decision to make. Will it protect our county's residents or will it choose to go along with (Secure Communities) and be complicit in tearing apart our families? Tell the King County Council to keep the County out of immigration enforcement.'' Claudia Balducci, King County's director of adult and juvenile detention, declined to comment beyond saying that the county is considering the move. -AP

Despite the federal government's attempt to force the state of California into participating into the sharing of fingerprints with immigration authorities through S-Comm, ICE's "detainer" requests are clearly optional under federal law. Courts and ICE itself have confirmed this, and a number of jurisdictions, including Santa Clara County, Cook Co, and New York City have limited their responses to detainer requests. A similar proposal is advancing in Washington, DC. A steady stream of disturbing revelations in recent months - including the mistaken detention of US Citizens in Los Angeles and elsewhere, and the deportation of the wife of a US citizen protesting an unfair foreclosure - have underscored the Department of Homeland Security's continued failure to repair the deeply troubled program. The tragic scandal at Miramonte School earlier this year - during which parents said they were afraid to work with LA Sheriffs due to S-Comm - further highlights the program's detrimental impact on public safety. About the Trust Act: Passed by both the California Assembly (4726) and the Senate Public Safety Committee (5-2) in 2011, the bill originally sought to modify California's agreement with the

federal government over S-Comm to curb the program's well-documented abuses. However, in a stunning display of bad faith, ICE shredded all state agreements last year but claimed states still needed to send fingerprints. ICE's surprise maneuver spurred a months-long process of consultation with groups across the state, resulting in the focus on ICE's burdensome "hold" requests. How detainers work: ICE "holds" or detainers are optional requests, frequently triggered by S-Comm, that ICE sends to local jails to ask them to place detained community members into extended incarceration so that the individual can be picked up for deportation. Local jails bear the brunt of the costs of responding to ICE holds, including the additional length of time individuals are held beyond the point they would be released if not for the immigration hold. ICE holds have come under increased scrutiny in recent months with revelations that they have led to the needless prolonged detention of immigrant domestic violence survivors, street vendors arrested only for selling food without a permit, and even U.S. citizens, trapped in local jails for the sole purpose of feeding an out of control deportation machine.

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Opportunity for States wanting immigrants Cont’d from page 34

and 5 off the table, if I could make one more point about 3 and 5, please? The -- I think -because I think it's important to understand the dilemma that this puts the Federal government in. Arizona has got this population, and they've -- and they're, by law, committed to maximum enforcement. And so the Federal government's got to decide, are we going to take our resources, which we deploy for removal, and are we going to use them to deal with this population, even if it is to the detriment of our priorities CHIEF JUSTICE ROBERTS: Exactly. You -- the Federal government has to decide where it's going to use its resources. And what the state is saying, here are people who are here in violation of Federal law, you make the decision. And if your decision is you don't want to prosecute those people, fine, that's entirely up to you. That's why I don't see the problem with Section 2(B). We hope we are proved wrong and the Supreme Court will find SB 1070 unconstitutional in its entirety, but even if we are not wrong, do not lose heart. Good things can also come out of it. Take a look at Peter Spiro's intriguing essay in the New York Times, where he argues that even if SB 1070 stands, it will ultimately wither as Arizona, and other copycat states, will continue to hurt economically. Thus, such laws that Arizona and some states will enforce with vigor will ultimately die their own natural death. Of course, this still does not excuse the fact that 2(B), while in existence, is likely to result in mass incarcerations, while the state police inquire about each detainee's status. One saving grace it that someone who is actually affected, such as an individual who is lawfully present, can mount another challenge based on due process and equal protection violations, rather than preemption, and this may have more of a chance to succeed. In the mean time, Spiro states, "One of federalism's core virtues is the possibility of competition among states. Competition in this context is likely to vindicate proimmigrant policies." Thus, most other states that welcome immigrants, legal and undocumented, and recognize their contributions, will deliberately not pass similar laws like Arizona's. By not enacting similar laws, they will be competing with those states by enticing their corporations, as well as jobs, to move over. While there are very good arguments in support of preemption, if part of SB 1070 is upheld, states

that want immigrants can go even further than do nothing. For instance, a state can pass a law that encourages immigrants who reside within to apply for a personal endorsement from the state's governor in support of a national interest waiver request, which waives the job offer and labor certification requirement, when applying for permanent residency. The state can set criteria for whom it wants to encourage, such as entrepreneurs or robotics specialists, and its governor can write a personal letter in support of their petitions for permanent residency through the federal national interest waiver pursuant to INA § 203(b)(2)(B)(i). As in Arizona's Section 2(B), the state is not creating a new immigration category, but simply assisting the federal government to make a determination under federal law. Unlike Arizona's SB 1070, which is premised on driving away immigrants from the state through attrition, the purpose of a state law in our hypothetical example is to encourage the immigrant to remain in that state and contribute to its economy, which in turn will benefit the national interest of the US. Indeed, we commend noted attorney Rami Fakhoury of Troy, Michigan, who is proposing such standards for Governor Snyder of Michigan to implement in order to support a national interest waiver request from a Michigan resident. In the same vein, a state can designate certain occupations as shortage occupations, which may assist the Department of Labor in more easily certifying a labor certification pursuant to INA § 212(a)(5) of an employer filed on behalf of a non-citizen resident in the state. A state can be a more effective judge of shortage occupations than the federal government, and if a labor certification is filed on behalf of a non-citizen in that particular state designated shortage occupation, the DOL may be more influenced in making a favorable determination on the labor certification. Similarly, even with regards to an undocumented immigrant, a state may be able to enact criteria for recommending that such a person, who has otherwise not been convicted of serious crimes and is say an essential farm worker, is deserving of prosecutorial discretion by the federal government under its new prosecutorial discretion policy and thus be permitted to remain in the state and prevent its farm produce from otherwise rotting away. There may already be such authority under INA § 287(g), which authorizes the federal government

to enter into a written agreement with a state to perform the function of a qualified immigration officer in relation to the "investigation, apprehension and detention" of non-citizens. In the era where the government has implemented a broad prosecutorial discretion policy, a state can assist the federal government in the "investigation," rather than the apprehension or

As in Arizona's Section 2(B), the state is not creating a new immigration category, but simply assisting the federal government to make a determination under federal law detention, of an individual who may merit such discretion from the federal government. While Utah has also passed an enforcement oriented immigration law similar to Arizona's, it contains one unique provision quite unlike any other state's law. The Utah provision offers work permits to undocumented immigrants who pass background checks, have paid fines and can demonstrate a work history. The measure does not offer legal status or citizenship, but would allow unauthorized workers who meet its criteria to continue working in Utah. This provision also requires a federal waiver. If the Utah provision, which is currently enjoined, is allowed to go forward,

Congress may not have passed a federal Dream Act but California and Illinois have done precisely that on the state level. Maryland too adopted its own Dream Act in 2011 in the event that the Supreme Court gives a green signal to states in Arizona v. US, we estimate that there will be more states that will enact laws similar to the Utah guest worker provision than Arizona's SB 1070. There is no reason to think that it will always be punitive. Many of the progressive achievements in modern American history, such as women suffrage, popular election of senators, wage and hour laws, occupational safety, and

most recently same sex marriages, to name but a select few, first appeared on the state level. The many instances where federal intervention has been necessary to protect civil rights against state abuse should not blind us to the possibility that state action can also be a force for good. Long ago, Justice Brandeis recognized that federalism offered a constitutional framework for experimentation and creativity: To stay experimentation in things social and economic is a grave responsibility. Denial of the right to experiment may be fraught with serious consequences to the Nation. It is one of the happy incidents of the federal system that a single courageous State may, if its citizens choose, serve as a laboratory; and try novel social and economic experiments without risk to the rest of the country… New State Ice Co. v. Liebmann, 285 U.S. 262, 52 S.Ct. 371, 76 L.Ed. 747 (1932)(Brandeis, J. dissent) Since the New Deal, the operating assumption in American politics has been that reform must come from Washington DC to be imposed upon the states. The growth of the imperial presidency has flowed directly and inevitably from this core conviction. This is certainly the case with immigration reform given the plenary federal power over this issue as an extension of foreign policy. The inability or unwillingness of Congress to deal effectively with undocumented migration to this country on an unprecedented level has created the impetus for state action to fill up the vacuum. We advocate that Congress must deal with this situation by creating more pathways to legal status over an enforcement only approach, which is what states like Arizona have done. Until now, such state action has been deprived of constitutional legitimacy; the Supreme Court may be ready to change that. Indeed, the first signs of this came with Chamber of Commerce v. Whiting, 131 S. Ct. 1968, 179 L.Ed.2d 1031 (2011) when a 5-3 ruling upheld the 2007 Legal Arizona Workers Act thus transforming the power of state regulators to grant or withhold business and professional licenses into tools of immigration enforcement. Should the High Court sustain SB 1070, for the first time since the 1870's, the states will be able to take advantage of a constitutional regime that not only tolerates but welcomes their presence and invites their participation. Of course, Congress can also deal with states legislating on immigration by ex-

pressly preempting such action, but one will need to wait for that day to happen. Those who think immigration is good for America will then have to find a way to review and revise their most basic assumptions on the nature of American reform. There is a way to make lemonade out of lemons. Even now, not all state and local action has been negative. Utah is but one such example. Look and you will find others. Congress may not have passed a federal Dream Act but California and Illinois have done precisely that on the state level. Maryland too adopted its own Dream Act in 2011 and the Maryland Supreme Court will soon decide if this measure must go to a voter referendum this fall. In his most recent state-of-thecity address, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg vigorously supported a Dream Act for New York State, though Governor Cuomo has yet to declare his position.12 states now grant in-state tuition rates to undocumented students. Texas, California and New Mexico provide financial aid to undocumented students. If we look north to our neighbor, Canada, its provinces have considerable influence in Canada's immigration policy. An intending immigrant to Canada will get a preference if he or she meets certain requirements of Quebec province, for example. Our position on SB 1070 has not changed. We do not believe it is constitutional. We do not write to endorse a patchwork immigration system of 50 different approaches without unity or definition. The dangers of this are apparent to all and we devoutly wish that our ideas will be made irrelevant when the Supreme Court finds SB 1070 to be constitutionally impermissible. Yet, candor requires us to admit that the result may not be as we would like. Now is the time to prepare for what may come and think the unthinkable. We owe it to our clients and our country to turn a problem into an opportunity. Until now, both supporters and critics of SB 1070 have assumed that if the Supreme Court were to uphold the law, it will unleash a tsunami of copycat legislation. This may happen and it may hurt. Yet, the future often has a way of surprising us. More may emerge; the outcome could well be different than what most hope or fear. This article points a way forward. What happens next is up to you. * Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com

Immigration Post

May 25, 2012

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Shift on marriage energizes immigration activists ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico: President Barack Obama's shift to support gay marriage is energizing young Hispanic voters who have been working side-byside with gay activists in their push for immigration reform. The alliance has been growing across the U.S., helping dispel what many say is an outdated notion that Hispanics are less tolerant of gays than the general public. ``My members are telling me that we need to learn from the gay community,'' said Dee Dee Garcia Blase, founder of the Phoenixbased Somos Republicans. She is now head of the Tequila Party, which she formed last year with the goal of registering young Hispanics to vote for immigrationfriendly candidates like Obama. ``We need to take a lesson from the (lesbian and gay) community with regard to being that loud, squeaky wheel that gets fixed,'' Blase said. ``We need to be more aggressive, and we realize it.'' Both the Democratic and Republican parties are focused heavily on winning the Hispanic vote, not just because it holds the key to battleground states in the southwestern U.S. but because Latinos make up the fastest-growing minority group. The government projects Hispanics will account for roughly 30 percent of the population by 2050, doubling in size and boosting their political power. Some 600,000 young Hispanics who were born in the U.S. turn 18 each year to enter a widening pool of more than 21 million Hispanic eligible voters.

Conservative Hispanics see the president's endorsement of samesex marriage as an opportunity to draw Latinos to the Republican Party. According to a 2007 religion survey of U.S. Latinos by the Pew Research Center's Forum on Religion & Public Life, two-thirds of Hispanics said their religious beliefs are an important influence on their political thinking. While more than two-thirds of Hispanics identified themselves as Roman Catholic, 15 percent said they were born-again Protestants.

Juan Rodriguez, who is active in the Florida Immigrant Coalition and an immigrant himself, said the gay rights and immigrant rights movements are “very aligned and becoming more so every year” Evangelical Latinos, who cite Biblical teaching for their stance against homosexuality, are twice as likely as those who are Catholic to vote Republican. While George W. Bush won 44 percent of the Hispanic vote in 2004, by 2008, 67 percent of the Hispanic vote had swung toward Obama. And that vote was pivotal to his success in states like Colorado, where exit polls show Republican Sen. John McCain

would have won if only Caucasians had voted. For many young Hispanics, both immigrant and U.S.-born, the DREAM Act - the proposed legislation that would make students who entered the country without authorization as children eligible for permanent residency and higher education - is a key issue. Obama supports the proposal, while Romney's hard line against the measure, which he has called a handout, has alienated many Hispanic voters. The Pew Hispanic Center found in a December 2011 survey that 91 percent of Hispanics support the legislation. Juan Rodriguez, who is active in the Florida Immigrant Coalition and an immigrant himself, said the gay rights and immigrant rights movements are ``very aligned and becoming more so every year. The co-president of Blase's Tequila Party, Shara Mora James is gay. And two so-called Dreamers, or leaders in the movement to pass the DREAM Act, have recently taken over two emerging gay rights groups, Freedom to Work and Get Equal. ``The immigrant rights movement is grounded on advocating with the most oppressed out of our community, and in many cases, that has been queer undocumented youth,'' said Rodriguez. ``We are figuring out more and more ways of supporting each other because we all grew up being told we needed to live in fear because of the communities we love.'' -AP

Kan. House defeats immigrant tuition repeal TOPEKA, Kan.: The Kansas House has rejected an effort to repeal a 2004 law allowing some illegal immigrants to pay in-state tuition at public colleges and universities. The law permits illegal immigrants who meet certain rules, such as graduating from a Kansas

high school, to pay the lower tuition Kansas charges to residents of the state. The Kansas Board of Regents says about 500 students participate in the program. House members defeated a proposed repeal on an unrecorded 6832 vote during debate on a broader education bill.

Those favoring repeal said the tuition program rewards illegal immigrants and serves to attract others to Kansas. But other House members said the students who benefit from the program are working toward citizenship and bettering their lives. -AP

Protests over Secure Communities program BOSTON: Immigrant advocates are protesting the decision by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to launch a federal program aimed at identifying illegal immigrants arrested for crimes. The activists say the Secure Communities program seriously erodes immigrant trust in the police, encourages officers to en-

gage in racial profiling, and erodes civil liberties. They also said the program contradicts the Obama administration's announced intention to focus immigration enforcement on serious criminals. The advocates, including the Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition, plan to hold

a press conference in Boston. Gov. Deval Patrick also opposes the Secure Communities program. Massachusetts Public Safety Secretary Mary Beth Heffernan said the program will have no practical effect on how Massachusetts handles fingerprints and information sharing with federal law enforcement agencies. -AP

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Governor signs anti-abortion bill in Kansas TOPEKA, Kan.: Gov. Sam Brownback has signed legislation giving more legal protection to Kansas health care providers who refuse to participate in abortions. The governor is a strong abortion opponent and had been expected to sign the measure, which takes effect in July. Kansas law already protects doctors and hospitals from being forced to participate in abortions. This year's measure extends the so-called ``conscience'' protection to other health care facilities. The legislation also says no individuals are required to refer patients for abortion services, or to participate in administering any drug they believe terminates a pregnancy. Abortion opponents say the measure simply updates existing law. -AP

'Blood transfer gave HIV to Ala. man' MONTGOMERY, Ala.: An Alabama man has filed a lawsuit against a Florida blood bank, charging that a transfusion during a coronary bypass surgery infected him with HIV. The lawsuit alleges that the contaminated blood given to Howard Midkiff came from the Alabama branch of Gainesville, Fla.based LifeSouth Community Blood Centers. A spokeswoman for the Baptist Health hospital system where the transfusion was given says Midkiff is the only one believed to have been given blood from the donor in question. She says they have never experienced a case like this before and don't expect to in the future. -AP

US reviews rapid, take-home test for HIV WASHINGTON: The US Food and Drug Administration is considering approval of the first overthe-counter HIV test that would allow consumers to quickly test themselves for the virus at home, without medical supervision. Public health experts estimate one-fifth of all HIV carriers in the U.S., about 240,000 people, are not aware of their status. FDA reviewers said the OraQuick In-Home HIV test could play a significant role in slowing the spread of HIV, according to briefing documents. But they also raised concerns about the test's accuracy. -AP

Health Science 38

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May 25, 2012

New HIV prevention pill could save lives CHICAGO: A pill to prevent HIV infection is already being given to some healthy people, but without U.S. government approval, it remains out of reach and too costly for many who need it. Doctors, patients and advocates say that would change if the Food and Drug Administration takes a landmark step and allows the pill, Truvada, to be marketed for prevention. The drug has been used for some time as a treatment for those already infected with the AIDS virus. ``This is a pretty radical step, but I think it's a necessary step,'' said Dr. Lisa Sterman of San Francisco, who prescribes the drug for already infected patients and those who are healthy but at risk of getting the virus from their partners or through risky sex. ``We've come as far as we can with condom use and safe sex strategies,'' Sterman said. A panel of advisers to the Food and Drug Administration have endorsed using Truvada as a preventive. In the 30-year battle against AIDS, ``it's the first time we have talked about a medication for prevention of HIV,'' Sterman said. An estimated 1.2 million Americans have HIV, with many more worldwide. AIDS can develop un-

In this, May 10 photo, Dr Lisa Sterman holds up a Truvada pill at her office in San Francisco. Sterman prescribes the drug off-label for about a dozen patients at high risk for developing AIDS

Doctors are allowed to prescribe Truvada "off-label'' for prevention, but FDA approval would formally allow the pill's maker, Gilead Sciences, to market it for that use less the virus is treated with antiviral drugs. The success of such medicines has helped make the disease more manageable and allows patients to live much longer than when the epidemic began 30 years ago. Doctors are allowed to prescribe Truvada ``off-label'' for pre-

vention, but FDA approval would formally allow the pill's maker, Gilead Sciences, to market it for that use. The FDA usually follows advisers' recommendations, and a decision is expected by June 15. Studies have shown that daily use of Truvada is highly effective at preventing HIV infections.

Some Truvada prevention studies took place in Africa, and the drug is available as an HIV treatment there and in poor nations elsewhere, but Gilead is seeking approval for using it for prevention in the United States only, a company spokeswoman said. A September editorial in the medical journal Lancet raised concerns about using HIV treatments for prevention when many HIVinfected people globally lack access to effective treatments. James Loduca, a spokesman for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, praised the advisory panel's action. ``With this recommendation, we're nearing a watershed moment in our fight against HIV,'' Loduca said. ``We know this isn't a magic bullet, and it's not going to be the right prevention strategy for everyone, but it could save thousands of lives in the United States and potentially millions around the world.'' The panel's action ``is a huge step forward,'' said Nick Literski, a federal worker who has been taking Truvada for HIV prevention for more than a year. His partner has the AIDS virus. Using the drug for prevention ``is really allowing people to make educated choices about their health,'' Literski said. Cont’d on page 41

Student with rare flesh-eating bug AUGUSTA, Ga.: After 10 days in the hospital, a Georgia graduate student fighting a rare flesheating infection isn't letting the breathing tube in her throat stop her from mouthing questions such as ``Where am I?'' and ``How long have I been here?'' The parents of 24-year-old Aimee Copeland said they know many more questions and much tougher answers will come as soon as doctors remove the respirator and allow her to breathe on her own. Doctors have already amputated most of Copeland's left leg to save her life after the infection spread rapidly from a nasty gash she suffered when she fell from a zip line May 1. Her parents said she'll likely lose her fingers as well, though doctors hope to save the palms of her hands, which could allow her to one day use

prosthetic fingers. Andy Copeland told NBC's ``Today'' show his daughter remains unaware of any of this. It's not clear exactly when her breathing tube could be taken out. ``Obviously she's going to have a lot of questions and there

in Augusta. Her family was recently told her chances of survival were very slim. Copeland contracted the rare infection, called necrotizing fasciitis, within a few days after suffering a deep cut when she fell from a zip line that snapped over

Doctors have already amputated most of Copeland's left leg to save her life after the infection spread rapidly from a nasty gash she suffered when she fell from a zip line May 1 will be a lot revealed to her that day, a lot of things that are going to generate some very emotional responses from Amy,'' Copeland's father said. The woman, a graduate student in psychology, remained in critical condition at Doctors Hospital

rocks in the Little Tallapoosa River. She was on a kayaking trip with friends. Doctors at the local emergency room in Carrollton closed the wound with nearly two dozen staples, but it became infected within a few days. On May

4, she was diagnosed with the rare infection and flown 200 miles to Augusta for treatment by specialists. One expert who is not involved in Copeland's care said if surgeons have been able to get ahead of the spread of her infection, and if Copeland is on the right antibiotics, then the worst may have passed. ``Every hour that goes by, her prognosis improves,'' said Dr. William Schaffner, an infectious disease specialist at Vanderbilt University. She probably still has months of care and rehabilitation ahead of her, he said. Copeland's family has remained at her side, playing her favorite music by Bob Marley and others to help her relax and heal. Doctors are using drugs to help keep her calm and sedate. Cont’d on page 40

May 25, 2012

Health Science Post

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Medicity super specialty hospital in Jammu

J&K Health Minister Sham Lal Sharma inaugurating Medicity-Super Specialty Hospital

JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Health Minister Sham Lal Sharma inaugurated Medicity-Super Specialty Hospital here and said private-public partnerships would give fillip to the health sector and health tourism in the state. "We are now focusing on the privatepublic partnership in the health sector in Jammu and Kashmir. We have already taken steps in this direction apart from streamlining the health services in the state," Sharma said during the inauguration. This modern medical centre has a 45-50 bed capacity and few special rooms. "I have already started Out Patient Doors (OPD) in Gandhi Nagar hospital in private sector with Medicity, Medanta and Fortis. They are providing diagnostic fa-

cilities to the patients of critical diseases," Sharma said. He said same model would be adopted

to facilitate such private-public partnerships in health sector in Kashmir for which health institute at Gupkar has been opened and will soon be made operational. He said that his department would also focus on Health Tourism. Sham called for close coordination between health department and field functionaries to extend adequate medical care to people, especially living in rural and farflung areas of the state. Expressing concern over the illegal practice of pre-natal sex determination, resulting in decreasing sex ratio in the country, the Minister said that government alone could not solve the problems. A change of mindset of the general public including the medical community was required, he said. He hoped that JK Medicity and other such organizations will expand their activities in future as well. -PTI

Second canine rabies case in Carlsbad CARLSBAD, N.M.: New Mexico health officials say 11 people are receiving vaccinations after being exposed to a dog that had rabies. The Department of Health announced that it confirmed rabies in the 8-year-old dog. The animal developed signs of the viral disease and died two days later. Officials say the people who were exposed to the dog are receiving a series of vaccinations to prevent them from devel-

oping rabies. This is the second dog in the Carlsbad area to contract rabies this year. The first case was in January. Health officials point to an outbreak of rabid skunks, some of which have come in contact with pets. They say a total of 26 people from Eddy County have received vaccinations since the beginning of the year due to exposures to rabid animals and bites from stray dogs and wild animals. -AP

TIP OF THE WEEK

Relax painful muscles with peppermint

uffering from tight, sore muscles? Stubborn knots can hang around for months if they aren't properly treated, says naturopath Mark Stengler, N.D., author of the book, The Natural Physician's Healing Therapies. His advice: Three times each week, soak in a warm tub scented with 10 drops of peppermint oil. The warm water will relax your muscles, while the peppermint oil will naturally soothe your nerves -- a combo that can ease muscle cramping 25 percent more effectively than overthe-counter painkillers, and cut the frequency of future flare-ups in half, says Stengler.

Health Science Post

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May 25, 2012

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Nebraska employee insurance costs high LINCOLN, Neb.: Nebraska taxpayers are paying far more than necessary into the state's health insurance program because of high administrative costs, poor oversight and a failure to monitor and control spending, State Auditor Mike Foley said. The Republican auditor said the cost of the most popular state employee coverage plan rose to more than $27,000 per worker in 2011 nearly $12,000 more than the national average. Foley said the family coverage plan was designed inefficiently and has led to nearly $1.1 million in questionable or unallowable expenses, such as claims from people who are not eligible. His comments came as he released an audit highly critical of the state's health care costs. Nebraska's health insurance program covers 29,000 state em-

ployees and dependents. The state pays 79 percent of the premium costs, while employees cover 21 percent. ``I'm sure (the Department of Administrative Services) will want to quibble with some of the details we have in this report,'' Foley said at a press conference. ``The bottom line is we have the highest-cost plan in the country. That needs to change.'' The audit found that the most popular choice among state employees, the State BlueChoicePlan, had the highest premiums among the four available coverage options. The plan accounted for more than 5,700 of the 13,183 employees covered by the state in December 2011, according to the audit. But the number of employees participating in the plan has shrunk from nearly 8,400 in June 2010.

The audit shows the state paid $9.3 million in administrative expenses in 2010, with 14,000 enrolled participants. The University

Foley said the family coverage plan was designed inefficiently and has led to nearly $1.1 million in questionable or unallowable expenses, such as claims from people who are not eligible of Nebraska, by contrast, spent $4.4 million while covering fewer than 12,000 current and former employees. The plan charges a $37.47 monthly administrative fee

Clock ticking with new plan to fight Alzheimer's WASHINGTON: The clock is ticking: The first National Alzheimer's Plan sets a deadline of 2025 to finally find effective ways to treat, or at least stall, the mind-destroying disease. The Obama administration is finalizing the landmark national strategy, laying out numerous steps the government and private partners can take over the coming years to fight what is poised to become a defining disease of the rapidly aging population. But some of the work is beginning right away. Embattled families and caregivers can check a new onestop website www.alzheimers.gov for easy-to-understand information about dementia and where to get help in their own communities. The National Institutes of Health is funding some major new studies of possible therapies, including a form of insulin that's squirted into the nose. ``These actions are the cornerstones of an historic effort to fight Alzheimer's disease,'' Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said in a statement. She was announcing the steps at the NIH. The first National Alzheimer's Plan comes as the world's top Alzheimer's scientists are gathered at the NIH this week to debate what research needs to be given priority in order to meet that ambitious 2025 deadline. They said it may be time to start testing potential therapies differently,

before people have full-blown Alzheimer's symptoms, when it may be too late to help. ``There's a sense of optimism'' thanks to some new discoveries, Dr. Francis Collins, director of the National Institutes of Health, told scientists at the Alzheimer's Research Summit. But, ``we need to figure out exactly where is the best window of opportunity'' to battle back Alzheimer's, Collins said. He

Even that staggering figure doesn't fully reflect the toll. Sufferers lose the ability to do the simplest activities of daily life and can survive that way for a decade or more noted that cardiologists don't test cholesterol-lowering drugs on people already near death from heart failure. It's clear that Alzheimer's quietly brews in the brain, killing off cells, for 10 years or more before symptoms appear, Dr. Reisa Sperling of Harvard Medical School told the meeting. She called that time period an important opportunity to try to stave off the disease, at least postponing the memory loss and other symptoms.

Already, 5.4 million Americans have Alzheimer's or related dementias. Barring a research breakthrough, those numbers will rise significantly by 2050, when up to 16 million Americans are projected to have Alzheimer's. Already, it's the sixth-leading killer, and there is no cure. Treatments only temporarily ease some symptoms. Beyond the suffering, it's a budget-busting disease for Medicare, Medicaid and families. Caring for people with dementia will cost the U.S. $200 billion this year alone, and $1 trillion by 2050, the Alzheimer's Association estimates. Even that staggering figure doesn't fully reflect the toll. Sufferers lose the ability to do the simplest activities of daily life and can survive that way for a decade or more. Family members provide most of the care, unpaid, and too often their own health crumbles under the stress. So the National Alzheimer's Plan, required by Congress, takes a two-pronged approach: focusing on future treatments plus help for families suffering today. ``There is a reinvigorated focus on this disease,'' Donald Moulds of HHS told The Associated Press. Among the first steps: A planned $8 million study of an insulin nasal spray that pilottesting suggests could help Alzheimer's. It's based on growing evidence that diabetes and Alzheimer's are related, damaging how the brain is fueled. -AP

for each employee, more than the comparable plans in Kansas, Wyoming and Montana, the report says. Auditors also questioned the need for so-called ``stop loss'' insurance designed to reduce the risk of significant claims made by a single participant. The audit said the program holds a $65 million cash reserve, an amount large enough to cover five months of claims expenses. But the department ``has not performed an analysis to determine whether stop-loss insurance has been beneficial to the state,'' the report says. Foley said he wasn't sure whether a recently announced switch to United Health Care would lower the state's costs. The Department of Administrative Services has estimated the move will save taxpayers and state employees a combined $8 million a year, but the state's longtime provider, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, is challenging the decision in court. Foley said many of the doctors that state employees use are not part of the United Health Care network. Carlos Castillo, Nebraska's director of Administrative Services, disputed the audit's findings. ``We have big disagreements over the facts as reported in the performance audit,'' Castillo said. ``There are a lot of things that we contend are not portrayed ac-

curately.'' Castillo said the audit focused on the most expensive coverage available to state employees, and noted that the proportion of participants has shrunk in recent years. One part of the audit says the state has improperly allowed Nebraska State Credit Union employees to participate in the plan, which generated $147,500 in costs but only $62,175 in premiums paid into the plan. Castillo said the Nebraska Attorney General's office has issued an opinion saying the state could fall victim to a legal challenge if those employees were excluded. ``There's some disagreement over how he defines eligible and how we define eligible,'' Castillo said. Omaha Sen. Bob Krist, a member of the Legislature's Performance Audit Committee, said lawmakers will ``take every action necessary to resolve this situation.'' Krist said the committee's chairman, Sen. John Harms of Scottsbluff, had reviewed the audit and agreed that lawmakers will need to act. The plan does not apply to state employees who work for the University of Nebraska, the Nebraska State College System or the State Law Enforcement Bargaining Council, which operate separately. -AP

Student with rare flesheating bug Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 38

``They are giving her medication to help her forget the stress she's under, so that explains her inability to recollect many things,'' her father posted over the weekend on a blog he's using to update friends and supporters. ``This is good for her, but mildly frustrating for us. It frustrates me because I want her to be able to focus on what she can control, not on things she cannot control.'' Infections by flesh-eating bacteria are rare but sometimes can run rampant after even minor cuts or scratches. The bacteria enter the body, quickly reproduce and give off toxins that cut off blood flow to parts of the body. The affliction can destroy muscle, fat and skin tissue. Affected areas may have to be surgically removed to save a patient's life. The bacteria that infected Copeland, a bug called Aeromonas hydrophila, is found in warm and

brackish waters. Many people exposed to these bacteria don't get sick. When illnesses do occur, it's often diarrhea from swallowing bacteria in the water. Flesh-eating Aeromonas cases are so rare that only a handful of infections have been reported in medical journals over the last few decades. At the University of West Georgia in Carrollton, where Copeland was preparing to dive into work on her master's thesis, friends held a vigil and were organizing a blood drive. Friends describe her as positive and tenacious when it comes to tackling problems attributes they say should help her in what's sure to be a long recovery. ``We just pray that she gets through this,'' said Richard LaFleur, a fellow graduate student who works with Copeland in the psychology department. ``Life will not be the same, but I know that Aimee can adapt. And whatever we have to do to help, we will.'' -AP

May 25, 2012

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Statistics highlight increases in blood pressure, diabetes India Post News Service

GENEVA The World Health Statistics 2012 report puts the spotlight on the growing problem of the noncommunicable diseases burden. One in three adults worldwide, according to the report, has raised blood pressure - a condition that causes around half of all deaths from stroke and heart disease. One in ten adults has diabetes. "This report is further evidence of the dramatic increase in the conditions that trigger heart disease and other chronic illnesses, particularly in low- and middle-income countries," says Dr Margaret Chan, Director-General of WHO. "In some African countries, as much as half the adult population has high blood pressure." For the first time, the World Health Organization's annual statistics report includes information from 194 countries on the percentage of men and women with raised blood pressure and blood glucose levels. In high-income countries, widespread diagnosis and treatment with low-cost medication have significantly reduced mean blood pressure across populations - and this has contributed to a reduction in deaths from heart disease. In Africa, however, more than 40% (and up to 50%) of adults in many countries are estimated to have high blood pressure. Most of these people remain undiagnosed, although many of these cases could be treated with low-cost medications, which would significantly reduce the risk of death

and disability from heart disease and stroke. Also included for the first time in the World Health Statistics 2012 are data on people with raised blood glucose levels. While the global average prevalence is around 10%, up to one third of populations in some Pacific Island countries have this condition. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to cardiovascular disease, blindness and kidney failure.

In high-income countries, widespread diagnosis and treatment with low-cost medication have significantly reduced mean blood pressure across populations - and this has contributed to a reduction in deaths from heart disease Obesity is another major issue "In every region of the world, obesity doubled between 1980 and 2008," says Dr Ties Boerma, Director of the Department of Health Statistics and Information Systems at WHO. "Today, half a billion people (12% of the world's population) are considered obese." The highest obesity levels are in the WHO Region of the Americas (26% of adults) and the lowest in the WHO SouthEast Asia Region (3% obese). In all parts of

New HIV prevention pill could save lives Cont’d from page 38

Not everyone in the HIV community is so excited about using Truvada for prevention. Michael Weinstein, president of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, is among the most vocal opponents. His Los Angelesbased group bills itself as the nation's largest provider of medical care for HIV and AIDS, and Weinstein's main concern is that patients won't take the drug as directed - a pill a day plus the use of condoms. Misuse could create drug-resistant HIV strains, and lead to more infections. The FDA panelists acknowledged that concern and said people should be tested to make sure they don't have HIV before starting Truvada. Patients who already have the virus and begin taking Truvada could develop a resistance to the drug, making their disease even more difficult to treat. Justin Terry-Smith, a writer with HIV, has different concerns. He took Truvada for four years to suppress his infection. He said he has friends with the AIDS virus who can't find the drug, and he worries that making it widely available for prevention could result in shortages and pose problems for patients who need it for treatment. ``There has to much more production of

this drug for this to actually go forward,'' he said. Sterman said approval of Truvada for prevention would be unlikely to lead to shortages because the drug would be recommended only for people at high risk for getting the virus.

Sterman said approval of Truvada for prevention would be unlikely to lead to shortages because the drug would be recommended only for people at high risk `Ì don't think demand for it is going to be that high,'' she said. Truvada's costs are another concern. But supporters of the drug note that the lifetime cost of treating one person diagnosed with the AIDS virus has been estimated at more than $600,000. `Ìt's much more cost-effective to prevent a new infection than it is to treat someone for their lifetime,'' Loduca said. `Òf course the ultimate goal is a vaccine and a cure, but we're many years away from that.'' -AP

the world, women are more likely to be obese than men, and thus at greater risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some cancers. Noncommunicable diseases currently cause almost two thirds of all deaths worldwide. Global concern about the rise in numbers of deaths from heart and lung disease, diabetes and cancer prompted the United Nations to hold a high-level meeting on

Dr Margaret Chan, Director-General of WHO

noncommunicable diseases in New York in September 2011. The World Health Assembly, to be held in Geneva from 21-26 May 2012, will review progress made since that meeting and agree on next steps. Work is currently under way to develop a global monitoring framework and a set of voluntary targets for prevention and control of these diseases.

Published annually by WHO, the World Health Statistics is the most comprehensive publication of health-related global statistics available. It contains data from 194 countries on a range of mortality, disease and health system indicators including life expectancy, illnesses and deaths from a range of diseases, health services and treatments, financial investment in health, as well as risk factors and behaviors that affect health. Some key trends in this year's report include: • Maternal mortality: In 20 years, the number of maternal deaths has decreased from more than 540 000 deaths in 1990 to less than 290 000 in 2010 - a decline of 47%. One third of these maternal deaths occur in just two countries - India with 20% of the global total and Nigeria with 14%. • 10 year trends for causes of child death: Data from the years 2000 to 2010 show how public health advancements have helped save children's lives in the past decade. The world has made significant progress, having reduced the number of child deaths from almost 10 million children aged less than 5 years in 2000 to 7.6 million annual deaths in 2010. Declines in numbers of deaths from diarrhoeal disease and measles have been particularly striking. • Death registration: Only 34 countries (representing 15% of the world's population) produce high-quality cause-of-death data. In low and middle-income countries, less than 10% of deaths are registered.

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Realty Tidbits

Shrinking farming land a matter of concern NEW DELHI: Agriculture experts expressed concerns over shrinking of farm land by nearly 0.2 million hectares and suggested enacting strong legislation to stop shifting of land for non-farming purposes. According to government statistics, the cultivable land in the country has come down to 182.5 million hectares during 2009-10 compared to 182.7 million tonnes during 2005-06. Director General of ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) S Ayyappan said shrinking of farm is a matter of concern. "Though the shrinking of farm land is not alarming right now, if the trend continues it can pose difficulty as agriculture is the mainstay of our economy," he said Former Union minister and agri expert Y K Alagh said growing transfer of agricultural land for real estate and other commercial purposes would seriously harm the primary sector and threaten the country's food security. Alagh suggested enactment of strong legislations to check transfer of agri land to non-agricultural usage.

Â&#x201E; Gulshan to invest Rs 900cr on Noida project NEW DELHI: Real estate developer Gulshan Homz says it would invest about Rs 900 crore in the next four years on a housing project in Noida. "We have launched a housing project 'Gulshan Ikebana' in Noida where we will be developing 1,500 three-bed room flats in phases," Gulshan Homz Managing Director Gulshan Nagpal told reporters. The construction would start from the next month and it would take about four years to complete the entire project. Asked about the investment, Nagpal said, "The total project cost is estimated at about Rs 900 crore, including Rs 250 crore incurred on 12.5 acre land." The investment would be funded through internal accruals, advances from customers against sales and bank debts, he said. The company has launched project at a basic selling price (BSP) of Rs 4,150 per sq ft. The company is offering flats at a starting price of about Rs 56 lakhs. Gulshan Homz has already completed three projects in Ghaziabad and is developing two projects comprising 2,500 units in Noida. -PTI

Real Estate 42

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Home sales dipped post mill land deals MUMBAI: The real estate market may be buoyant about the sector slowly inching towards recovery after a long lull, but the market has never really bounced back for home buyers from the 2005 peak. Figures collated from the registration office show that sale of homes in Mumbai had hit a peak in 2005, when the market was most efficient, with 89,843 houses being sold that year.

May 25, 2012

Coming soon: Affordable housing policy for all

n two months, India could have a brand new affordable housing policy, an effort to give some boost to a weakening real estate sector. The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation (Mhupa) is in the process of finalizing such a policy in two months, reports Business Standard. The government had already allowed external commercial borrowing (ECB) for low cost houses in India in the annual Budget. But the real estate companies are not too keen on this segment because of the low margins. Hence the government is now trying to make affordable housing attractive for the developers as well. The policy will raise the floor space index to compensate developers for high cost of land and also ease density norms, the Business Standard article says. It would give capital and interest subsidy to developers. Even government land would be auctioned on the basis of who could build maximum number of low cost houses. The Mhupa has also built an internal committee to fast track the process of granting approvals of housing projects in a bid to reduce costs by 25-40 percent, reports the Economic Times. Approvals would be given in six-eight weeks

as against almost 70 approvals they require at present which typically take between two to three years. A recent example of such a case is the allegation by the

struct 500,000 affordable homes in Mumbai, Thane and Raigad districts of Maharashtra is gathering dust due to "inaction and policy paralysis" on the part of the state government. Such projects could

The Mhupa has also built an internal committee to fast track the process of granting approvals of housing projects in a bid to reduce costs by 25-40 percent Maharashtra Chamber of Housing Industry and the Confederation of Real Estate Developers' Associations of India that plan to con-

be better executed with some sort of a single window clearance system. On the other hand, the govern-

ment is also making strict riders for the ECB borrowing so that money cannot be borrowed for low cost housing and transferred to other segments. "We do not want a situation where the land mafia is trying to raise such funds from abroad. Only genuine developers, who are building affordable housing projects should be able to avail such loans," Indian Express quoted a finance ministry official as saying. So the government could mention specific projects and developers that could access the ECB funds and also mention specific channels like National Housing Bank to borrow the funds.

Delhi Metro plan to set up 'shopping corridor'

he Delhi Metro Rail Corporation's Phase III ex pansions plans are sure to please many more residents of the city. First it was the 'heritage corridor' for heritage enthusiasts, now plans to connect four of South Delhi's prominent markets will surely prove a boon for shopaholics. By 2016, four major markets Sarojini Nagar, INA, South Extension and Lajpat Nagar - will have dedicated underground metro stations connecting them. This chain of four consecutive metro stations will come up on the arterial Ring Road and it is estimated that two lakh more passengers will use

these stations primarily to reach these markets that specialize in selling clothes, shoes and other accessories. After construction of this new line - Mukundpur to Yamuna Vihar

pected ridership in 2016 will be 15,000 in Sarojini Nagar, over 1,29,000 in INA, over 8,000 at South Extension and over 54,000 at Lajpat Nagar. Of these, the stations at INA

By 2016, four major markets - Sarojini Nagar, INA, South Extension and Lajpat Nagar - will have dedicated underground metro stations connecting them - shoppers will be able to reach places such as Dilli Haat and Ansal Plaza from far flung areas of East and North Delhi. The ex-

and Lajpat Nagar will also be converted into interchange stations to further boost connectivity to these commercial hubs. With in-

ter-station distances ranging from less than a kilometer to about one and a half kilometer, the Delhi Metro claims it will also provide a great impetus to business improvements in the area. Since shoppers at Sarojini Nagar and South Extension markets have had to rely on buses and auto-rickshaws to get to their destinations, the metro stations that will come up very close to the markets (within 50 meters) will make the transportation easier. Though these locations are well connected by buses, parking of private vehicles has always proved to be a major constraint for shoppers.

Real Estate Post

May 25, 2012

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Mumbai's residential mkt shows negative growth NEW DELHI: The residential market in Mumbai showed a negative growth of -9.1% during March 2011-2012, according to the latest Knight Frank Prime Global Cities Index, which compares the performance of prime sales markets across key global cities. The value of prime property in the world's key cities fell by 0.4% in the first quarter of 2012. This represents the index's first quarterly fall since the depths of the global recession. Overall, the index rose 1.4% in the 12 months to March 2012. The prime markets in North America performed strongly with prices increasing by 7.7 % on average in the last 12 months Nairobi (up 24%) was the strongest performer in the last 12 months while prices in Dubai (up 4%) rose the most in the last 3 months The first three months of 2012 brought with it little new momentum. The Eurozone's debt debacle remained at the forefront of the global economic agenda, several critical elections were on the horizon (Russia, France, Greece) and Asia's highly-effective cooling measures showed no sign of being relaxed. Against this backdrop some luxury buyers took to the sidelines to observe their market's trajectory. Despite the overall index's sluggish performance four prime markets achieved double-digit growth over a 12-month period; Nairobi, Jakarta, Miami and London. Perhaps most surprisingly is the fact that the top five performing cities

were spread across four continents - North America to be the only continent to appear twice (see overleaf).

Despite the overall index's sluggish performance four prime markets achieved double-digit growth over a 12-month period; Nairobi, Jakarta, Miami and London London and Singapore are proof that there is still a level of resilience in the prime markets with both cities shrugging off the introduction of new stamp duties in the first quarter of 2012.

In London both prices and applicant numbers increased despite the stamp duty rise to 7% for individuals buying homes over ÂŁ2 million. In Singapore the new 10% stamp duty for foreign buyers, which was introduced in December 2011, dented demand but not prices, according to Nicholas Holt, Knight Frank's Asia-Pacific Research Director. In Knight Frank's the overall index will remain subdued in 2012 fluctuating between marginal price falls and rises (with London, Moscow, Jakarta, Nairobi and Singapore expected to be the strongest performers) but it seems unlikely we are on the cusp of a new deflationary cycle in luxury global house prices. The safe-haven argument still resonates. Capital flight will continue to focus on cities with low political risk, transparent legal systems, good security and ideally those with an HNWI-friendly tax regime.

Indians prefer 2nd-hand property MUMBAI: While buying a house, majority of the Indians prefer a ready-to-move property than new launches, a recent study has said. "About 74 per cent home buyers across India are negotiating for a ready-to-move property," real estate market news portal Track2Realty's survey titled 'Home Buyer's Satisfaction Index' said. The survey says out of the remaining 26 per cent, who opted for new launches for price discounts, as many as 82 per cent were now repenting their decision, mainly due to delays in the project completion. The survey was conducted in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Kochi, Ahmedabad, Chennai and Patna. About 68 per cent of buyers prefer ready-to-move property because they could avail of tax benefits only after getting the pos-

session of the house, it says. "Saving tax on the EMIs is one of the big reasons why eight out of 10 plan their house buying," it

Nearly 52 per cent were ready to pay slightly more for a ready-to-move property because they wanted to make sure who their neighbors would be and the overall community profile

points out. Around 92 per cent of the respondents agreed that buying

under-construction property makes them suffer double blow of paying rent and EMI and not getting any tax benefit. Nearly 52 per cent were ready to pay slightly more for a readyto-move property because they wanted to make sure who their neighbors would be and the overall community profile. Delay in the delivery was cited as a major reason by almost 92 per cent buyers for reluctance to book a new launch. Faulty design or construction scares 70 per cent of home buyers, who opted for "you get what you see" projects. "About 78 per cent say they have not got what was showcased as the sample flat," the survey adds. Around 72 per cent respondents complained about developers passing off cafeterias as "clubs" and under-equipped gyms. -PTI

Indians wary of investing in property: Survey MUMBAI: Uncertainty in the real estate sector is keeping the Indian home buyers away, according to a survey. "While property still remains the preferred choice of investment of nearly all the Indians, as high as 92 per cent, they are pretty scared of trading in the property market now," real estate market tracking news portal Track2Realty's survey titled 'Home Buyer's Satisfaction Index' said. The survey further said that buyers are looking at other options, including infra bonds for investment. "Nearly 70 per cent of Indians who are looking to invest again after occupying a house assert they prefer relatively safer bets like infra bonds than be sorry after the new launches are stuck up due to developers' poor financial condition, regulatory hassles or other legal issues." The survey was conducted in 10 cities: Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Kochi, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Patna, Pune and Chandigarh. As many as 2,000 house-buyers were surveyed.

"Almost 60 per cent of home seekers active in the property market believe there is artificial demand in a new launched project and after 12-24 months, prices can be realistic, if not outrightly downward," it said.

"Nearly 70 per cent of Indians who are looking to invest again after occupying a house assert they prefer relatively safer bets like infra bonds than be sorry after the new launches are stuck up Due to lack of confidence in the new launches, buyers are preferring ready-to-move properties. "Nearly 62 per cent prefer to settle for a flat in the secondary market as against the temptation of brand new in the recently launched apartment." -PTI

Godrej Properties to focus on residential space MUMBAI: Bullish on improvement in the real estate sector in the next couple of months, Godrej Properties, the real estate arm of Godrej Group, plans to continue its focus on residential space, a top company official said. "Though there is negative sentiment among buyers at present, the demand for houses will continue to grow, which is a huge opportunity for developers like us. We will continue to remain very much focused on the residential space," Godrej Properties (GPL) managing director and chief executive Pirojsha Godrej said. Of the 10 deals that the company signed last fiscal, only one was in the commercial space, at

Bandra Kurla Complex. "Going forward, the entirety of our business will be focused on residential space," he said, adding, "It is not that we feel the commercial space will not do well, but given our current portfolio, we think we have a significant exposure to this segment." "Financing for residential projects is much easier than commercial projects. In residential, construction can be financed by customer advances. That is the key for scaling growth." GPL plans to launch 15 projects this fiscal, he said, adding that these will primarily be residential projects.

India News 44

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HEMA TRIVEDI India Post News Service

MUMBAI: Temples, churches or mosques have always acted as pivot around which most of the religious and social activities of their respective societies are usually concentrated. Role of temples in case of Hindus are minimal except during the feasts and festivals when Hindus throng to temples. A special two-day national conference of temple executives was held in Delhi encouraging temples to take proactive role in the social transformation of the Hindu-dharma, especially thwarting the sinister move of the governments both at central and state levels to take over the administration of the temples and have unlimited access over the temple funds to use it at their whims and fancies. They are taking advantage of the disunity of the Hindus, just as foreign invaders and religious bigots have done it for centuries. Commenting on this conference Ashok Singhal, a senior leader of Hindu society said, "Temples have always been the prominent centre of social transformation in our society. The government move to take over some of the temples is basically aimed at grabbing the huge money offered to the deities there. "Wherever the governments took over the temples the social activities being carried out by those temples earlier have adversely been affected. We have to protect our temples at any cost and should make them the pivot of social transformation as per the Hindu traditions." He was addressing a gathering

May 25, 2012

Refugees from Myanmar to be sent back in fair manner: HM NEW DELHI: Refugees from Myanmar will be sent back in a fair manner as per laid guidelines and without any religious discrimination, Government told Rajya Sabha after an uproar in Parliament over the issue. Raising the issue during Zero Hour, Balbir Punj (BJP) sought to know who was behind bringing around 4,000 Myanmar refugees in the national capital and what the government was doing to evict them, while some other members raised objections to their ill-treatment as they belonged to a particular community. -PTI

Temples urged to be more proactive to counter take-over by govt of temple executives at a national conference organized in New Delhi on May 5.The two-day conference was jointly organized by Badri Bhagat Jhandewala Temple Society and Indraprastha Vishwa Hindu Parishad from May 5 to 6. The conference was inaugurated by president of Shri Sanatan Dharma Pratinidhi Sabha, Swami R a g h w a n a n a d , Mahamandaleshwar Swami Anubhootanand Giri of Akhand Paramdham Mandir, VHP general secretary Shri Champatrai, VHP general secretary (organization) Shri Dinesh Chandra and chairman of Badri Bhagat Jhandewala Temple Society Shri Navin Kapur. Swami Krishnanand Saraswati of Maniramdas Chhavani, Ayodhya, Shri Anil Gupta of the Temple Society and many other senior officials of the Temple Society and VHP were also present on the occasion. A total of 60 executives representing various temples from Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Delhi, etc attended the conference. Addressing the delegates, Ashok Singhal further said that the govt. is attempting to have control of temples money while for the Hindus they are the foundation of preserving and promoting their culture and samskars. "This work cannot be done by governments. The only social activity for

the government is opening schools or dispensaries. There are numerous activities that have to be conducted by the temple like, pujari training, providing Hindu samskars, cow protection, etc."

Templeâ&#x20AC; executivesâ&#x20AC; meeting in Delhi

"The Parishad will start Refresher Courses for education, training and enlightenment of pujaris and archakas and all others vested with the rights and duties of performance of ritual and other aspects of the inner discipline of Mandir" He pointed out that this work is going on smoothly in many counties outside India. He said a big conference of various Hindu temples of America will be organized in USA from August 17-18. The objective of the conference is to strengthen and uphold the traditional standards of worship

Out of jail, A Raja attends Parliament session NEW DELHI: A Raja, the prime accused in 2G spectrum scam, came to Parliament a day after being released from Tihar jail where he was lodged after his arrest in the case on February 1 last year. Dressed in white shirt and black trousers, 49-year-old Raja got down from his car and entered Parliament. He then went straight to the Lok Sabha. The former Telecom Minister appeared cheerful but did not speak to reporters who jostled to get a quote from him. The DMK member from Nilgiris constituency in Tamil Nadu attended the Lok Sabha briefly dur-

ing Zero Hour in the afternoon and exchanged pleasantries with some members.

in temples, involve and integrate youth to the temples, create leadership continuity to achieve Hindu unity and create a support network for all temples. Speaking at the inaugural ses-

He was seated for a couple of minutes in the last row before making a quiet exit with some DMK members. He left Parliament premises shortly thereafter. Raja, the main accused in the Rs 30,000 crore 2G scam, was granted bail by a Delhi court which dismissed CBI's apprehensions that he will tamper with evidence. Another Lok Sabha member, Suresh Kalmadi was also in Tihar jail till recently in the wake of alleged irregularities in the organisation of Commonwealth Games. The Congress member from Pune was Chairman of the CWG organising committee. -PTI

sion, Shri Dinesh Chandra warned the governments which are misusing temple money on nonHindu activities. He warned that if the government did not reconsider its policy of taking over Hindu temples, the Hindu society would not sit silent. He stressed the need to make the temples the centers of social awakening. Shri Sondara Rajan of Balaji Temple, Chiklur, described the government control on temples as a cancer, which needs immediate surgery. He said the secular governments are bent upon destroying the Hindu temples, which should not be tolerated. "There are thousands of temples in the country which need renovation. But this work cannot be expected from the government officials who are managing some of the temples. Similarly, the cow protection is another task which has to be taken up by the temples. But we cannot expect these from the governments," he said. Swami Raghwanand from Shri Sanatan Dharma Pratinidhi Sabha and Shri YD Venkat from Adi

Katyayani Shaktipeeth appreciated the idea of creating a platform for coordination among the temples. In the beginning, chairman of the Badri Bhagat Jhandewala Temple society Shri Navin Kapur formally welcomed the temple executives and hoped that the conference would prove a mile stone in protecting the temples. In the last session, the conference unanimously adopted a resolution declaring the formation of a national body called the Akhil Bharatiya Mandir Prabandhak Parishad to make the temples autonomous centers of worship, spiritual fulfillment and social services devoid of any sort of governmental control. "The Akhil Bharatiya Mandir Prabandhak Parishad will be a friend, philosopher and guide to cooperate and coordinate to make each and every Mandir to be fully independent, sovereign, autonomous, self-reliant and self-sufficient in dispensing spiritual, religious, national, social and cultural, etc. responsibilities of the Hindu society and to be fully free from all kinds of government control in their establishment, functioning, development and administration. The Parishad will strive hard to make temples immune from the perils of commercialization and politicization and also improve competency of the pujaris and other karmacharis," the resolution said. According to the resolution, the proposed Akhil Bharatiya Mandir Prabandhak Parishad would work to make the temples a confluence of social service activity in the sectors of education, health, employment, empowerment of women and children, create social harmony, eradication of social evil, environmental protection, housing, feeding of the poor etc. "The Parishad will start Refresher Courses for education, training and enlightenment of pujaris and archakas and all others vested with the rights and duties of performance of ritual and other aspects of the inner discipline of Mandir with the aim of enhancing the knowledge and understanding of the scriptures, mantras, tantras, etc.

May 25, 2012

Perspective

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Concentrated solar power can meet India's needs DARSHAN GOSWAMI, M.S., P.E.

olar energy is an enormous resource that is readily available in all countries throughout the world, and all the space above the earth. Long ago scientists calculated that an hour's worth of sunlight bathing the planet held far more energy than humans worldwide could consume in a year. I firmly believe that India should accelerate the use of all forms of renewable energy (photovoltaic, thermal solar, solar lamps, solar pumps, wind power, biomass, biogas, and hydro), and more proactively promote energy efficiency. However, in this article, I will only focus on the use of Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technology to meet India's future energy needs. Concentrated solar power plants have been used in California, USA since the 1980s. More recently, Pacific Gas & Electric has signed contracts to buy 500 megawatts of solar thermal power from two solar companies. First, NextEra Energy Resources will sell 250 megawatts of CSP generated power from the Genesis Solar Energy Project to be located in Riverside, California. Second, Abengoa's Mojave Solar project will supply the remaining 250 megawatts from a plant located in San Bernardino County, California. Moving away from fossil fuels Subject to California Public Utility Commission's approval of the power purchase agreements, construction of these solar energy generating plants started in 2010 with operations planned to begin in 2013. Both these solar thermal power projects will contribute to meeting California's aggressive Renewable Portfolio Standard, which calls for moving away from fossil fuels to solar and other renewable energy sources that avoid pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

The vast Rajasthan Desert is very similar to the Sahara desert in Africa, and has the potential to become the largest solar power plant in India. Due to high levels of available sunlight, CSP plants in Rajasthan could begin satisfying most of India's energy needs in just a few years In addition to California, the sunny state of Arizona, USA has become home to the world's largest solar plant. Solana (which means "a sunny place" in Spanish) solar power generating station is scheduled to begin operation this year, harnessing Arizona's most abundant renewable energy resource - the sun. This plant (located 70 miles southwest of Phoenix) has a projected capacity of 280 megawatts, and will make use of Abengoa Solar's CSP technology. Worldwide, Germany and Spain are lead-

ers in solar power generation with 4,000 megawatts and 600 megawatts of installed capacity respectively. A recently formed consortium of 12 companies, known as the Desertec Industrial Initiative (DDI), plans to spend 400 billion Euros ($557 billion) to extract solar energy from the Sahara desert. The DDI aims to deliver solar power to

salt (a mixture of sodium nitrate and potassium nitrate) is circulated through tubes in the receiver, absorbing the heat energy gathered from the sun. The heated salt is then routed to an insulated tank where it can be stored with minimal energy losses. To generate electricity, the hot molten salt is routed through heat exchangers and a

To produce solar power and avoid water evaporation, solar panels have been set up atop the Narmada branch canal. Here, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi inspects the novel initiative

Europe as early as 2015 and eventually provide 15% of Europe's electricity by 2050 or earlier via power lines stretching across the desert and under the Mediterranean Sea. The vast Rajasthan Desert is very similar to the Sahara desert in Africa, and has the potential to become the largest solar power plant in India. Due to high levels of available sunlight, CSP plants in Rajasthan could begin satisfying most of India's energy needs in just a few years. India's potential benefits from solar power are as numerous as the sands of Rajasthan Desert, and include reduced dependence on fossil fuels and a cleaner environment. Reducing strain on electric grid These benefits can be realized by installing renewable energy technologies, such as CSP, to protect the environment while diversifying energy resources and helping to lower prices. Solar power can also reduce strain on the electric grid on hot summer afternoons, when air conditioners are running, by generating electricity where it is used. India has optimal conditions to use CSP to harness solar energy from the Rajasthan Desert. However, to take advantage of this innovative technology, potential CSP plant sites must be identified and deployment accelerated. Specifically India needs to heavily subsidize solar and wind power projects just like Japan, Germany and other European nations are doing. The use of renewable energy has great potential to create more jobs in India especially in rural areas. CSP plants generate electricity from sunlight by focusing solar energy, collected by an array(s) of sun-tracking mirrors called heliostats, onto a central receiver. Liquid

steam generation system. The steam is then used to produce electricity in a conventional steam turbine. After exiting the steam generation system, the now cool salt mixture is circulated back to the "cold" thermal storage tank, and the cycle is repeated. Sustainable technology options While CSP technology is not new, it offers one of the most promising utility-scale, and sustainable technology options for meeting India's energy needs from renewable energy resources. But a large scale initiative (like Europe's DDI) is needed to make it more cost effective. Moreover, the Rajasthan desert has the potential to produce solar power at a cost low enough to be competitive with fossil and nuclear power. Solar power is an enormous readily available source of energy. It can be used everywhere, and can, in principle, satisfy most of India's energy demand from a renewable, safe and clean resource. Concentrating solar collectors are very efficient and can completely replace the electricity traditionally produced by fossil fuel power plants. CSP plants in the 30 MW to 200 MW range are now operating successfully in locations from California to Europe. Nearly every day now, new CSP plants are being planned for construction. Today's CSP plants supply the heat needed to generate electricity at a cost equivalent to $50 - $60 per barrel of oil. This cost is expected to be slashed by 50% to below $25 - $30 per barrel in the next 10 years. India should begin creating a mainstream solar energy market with the goal of making solar power cost-competitive with fossil fuel-generated electricity. One

step toward achieving this goal would be to start a nationwide solar initiative of building 10 million solar roofs within ten years. It has often been said that it is not a question of if, but when solar power becomes cost-competitive with traditional electricity sources. With the right programs and policies today, India can have a great deal of control over how rapidly solar power becomes cost-competitive. And, by getting in on the ground floor of this new technology, India can also create millions of jobs in renewable energy. India needs a plan with the same spirit, boldness and the imagination of the Apollo Program that put astronauts on the Moon. The technology is well established and available. All that is needed now to make this concept a reality is political commitment and appropriate investments and funding to harness this renewable solar energy resource. Solution to climate and energy crisis I expect that the new US Administration will strongly prioritize the use of solar thermal energy as a solution to the climate and energy crisis. This should create additional incentive for countries such as India, who have optimal conditions for CSP plants, to take similar actions. India's solar energy holds great promise. India must accelerate its investment in renewable energy resources, specifically solar and wind energy. The U.S.-India Energy Dialogue, which facilitates discussions on renewable energy and energy efficiency, can be a very useful tool to spark investments in solar energy. This can lay the foundation for an energy independent future - one in which the Government of India takes advantage of the vast amounts of energy available from the Rajasthan Desert sun (instead

It has often been said that it is not a question of if, but when solar power becomes cost-competitive with traditional electricity sources. With the right programs and policies today, India can have a great deal of control over how rapidly solar power becomes cost-competitive of oil from the Arab nations) to power its future energy needs. In addition, solar energy would not only create millions of jobs, but also sustain India's positive economic growth, help lift its massive population out of poverty and combat climate change. Darshan Goswami is working for United States Department of Energy (DOE) as a Project Manager in Pittsburgh, PA, USA. He has over 35 years of experience in the energy field.

Datebook

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May 25, 2012

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NEW YORK

NEW JERSEY

Upcoming

Fri May 25

Sat May 26

• DJ Suketuís Official White Party

• Just Dance Live in America

Venue: Pranna, 79 Madison Avenue, NY Time: 10pm Contact: 646-452-3424

Venue: East Brunswick Performing Arts Center, 200 Rues Lane, East Brunswick, NJ Time: 7:30pm

Thurs May 31 • Desi Speed Dating NYC Venue: Pranna NYC, 79 Madison Ave No 2, New York Time: 7:15pm Contact: 732-444-8781

Sat June 9 • Vidyanjali 2012 Venue: Manhattan Bridges High School, 525, West 50th Street, New York Time: 5pm Contact: 646-251-7463

Fri June 1 • Gujarati Play Silver Jubilee: Kajal Oza Vaidya Venue: Forum Theatre, 314 Main Street, Metuchen, New Jersey Time: 8:30pm Contact: 732-763-0118

Sat June 2 • Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan in NJ Venue: Boardwalk Hall, 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey Time: 8pm Contact: 516-692-8690

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NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Upcoming

Upcoming Sun May 27

• Kailash Kher with His Band Kailasa

• Crazy Mohanís ìChocolate Krishnaî

Venue: Copernicus Theater, 5216, West Lawrence Avenue, Chicago, IL Time: 8:30pm Contact: 847-230-7977

Venue: Dougherty Valley High School, 10550 Albion Road, San Ramon, CA Time: 4pm Contact: 925-202-1176

• Grand Classical Music Concert by Dr KJ Yesudas Venue: The Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago, 10915 Lemont Road, Lemont, IL Time: 6pm Contact: 630-972-0300

• Vibha Vibe 2012: Multi Cultural Dance

• New Balaji Temple Maha Kumbhabhishekam

Venue: Curtis Theatre, 1 Civic Center Circle Brea, CA Time: 5:30pm Contact: 714-747-4954

Venue: Balaji, 5004 N 1st Street, Alviso, CA Time: 9pm Contact: 408-203-1036

• Sarod Maestro Amjad Ali Khan

• Yaadon ki Baarat

Venue: Dinkelspiel Auditorium on the Stanford Campus, 471 Lagunita Drive, Stanford, CA Time: 8pm Contact: 650-723-2300

Upcoming Mon May 28 to Wed May 30 • Chinmaya Mission Twin Cities presents Talks on Glory of Ganesha Venue: Chinmaya Ganapati 12575 County Road 43, Chaska MN 55318 Time: 6:30pm-Bhajans & 7pm to 8:30pm Discourse on Ganapati Atharvashirsha Contact: 860-633-0045

Fri June 8 • Sonu Nigam Live in Atlanta Venue: Atlanta Civic Center, 395 Piedmont Ave Northeast, Atlanta Time: 8:30pm Contact: 404-718-0009

Venue: Unitarian Universal Church at San Fransisco. Contact: 415-776-4580 Highlights: Paintings Titled “We Were together in Primodial Time.

Sun June 3

Fri June 1

WASHINGTON DC

• The Exhibition of Salma Arastuís Paintings

Wed May 30

Sun June 3 Venue: Hamilton Fine Arts Center, W220 N 6151, Town Line Road, Sussex, IL Time: 6:30pm Contact: 414-476-5936

Upcoming Thurs May 24

Sat May 26

Sat June 2

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Sat June 2 • Bay Areaís SP Balu 66th Bíday Celebration Concert Venue: Jain Temple Auditorium, 722 S Main Street, Milpitas, CA 95035 Time: 4pm Contact: 510-468-9057

Sat June 9 • Haasya Kavi Sammelan Venue: India Community Center, 525 Los Coches Street, Milpitas, CA Time: 7pm Contact: 510-358-6538

Sat July 14 ï Summer Picnic Venue: Lake Elizabeth Park, 4000 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont, CA Time: 10am Contact: 510-713-2686

Sun June 10 • Songs & Dances from Vibrant Gujarat Venue: Palace Theater, Stamford Time: 8pm Contact: 203-322-9862 Highlights: Gujarat, the Land the Legends: Mahatma Gandhi, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Vikram Sarabhai, Jamshedji Tata and visionary Dhirubhi Ambani go down in history. But, Gujarat also stands for its literary tradition in the form of folk songs, narratives and theater.

Sun June 17 • First unitarian Universalist Society of San Francisco Venue: 1187 Franklin Street at Geary San Fransisco, CA 94109 Time: 2:00pm Contact: 415-776-4580

Thurs Sept 27 • Ballet Folklorico De Mexico Venue: Palace Theater, 61 Atlantic St. Stamford, CT 06901 Time: 8pm Contact: 203-325-4466

Fri Oct 19 • Royal Drummers and Dancers of Burundi Venue: Palace Theater, 61 Atlantic St. Stamford, CT 06901 Time: 8pm Contact: 203-325-4466

May 25, 2012

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Philosophy

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May 25, 2012

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Page Sponsored by Sahanis JAC O'KEEFFE

ll desire arises from an innate lack of contentment. While nothing that mind can imagine and want is of any real value, the personal 'I' will ensure that each day is peppered with efforts to fulfill desires. In fact when identified thought is running, there is interest in little else. It is the nature of desire to prompt the mind to create a world for its fulfillment. The state of craving for anything inhibits deeper experience. When mind is fixated on a desire, maturation is arrested. If you inquire into yourself, all you really desire is desirelessness. Desirelessness can be recognized as the moment of satisfaction when desire is fulfilled. There is calmness, perfection and a feeling of completeness. Desire for an object or experience is a compensation for the lack of fulfillment of the ultimate desire - desirelessness. There is no end to the cyclical nature of desire; however, the cycle falls away when it is seen to be a looped pattern of thinking. The perpetuation of desire is predicated on the fact that personal 'I' desires the very thing that cannot come by desire. The smallest desire has the ability to ignite a long line of acSUSAN KAHN

othing dies absolutely, nor is truly born, nor endures, not independently, not in and of itself. While phenomena appear as inherently separate things, they are not. Everything lacks independent existence, an essential nature, its "own being." It is in this sense that everything is said in emptiness teachings to be empty. Emptiness does not mean nothingness, nor does it imply a vast permanent, undifferentiated substance or substratum. It means that not a single thing exists substantively or independently. Instead, everything arises from empty, dependent conditions. Nothing is uncaused. This also means that nothing can be fixed or static. And this is why it is said in emptiness teachings that everything is impermanent. All phenomena arise dependently, interconnectedly and exist impermanently. However, despite the absence of true "thingness," an interdependent universe functions quite well. In fact, dependent existence enables functioning because it enables change and transformation. If anything existed independently, fixedly, it would not be dependent upon other things. There would be no way for it to be influ-

tion as one objective idea feeds the next. To engage in desire is a lack of discrimination; let it be seen that acquiring objects, be it a car or a lover, can never bring you to the end of desire. In order for you to enjoy something it must first be objectified by mind as an independent form or formless experience. There is only movement in consciousness which we call life force or functioning and we give names

is restored when desire is not running. If you imagine yourself to be separate from the world then the world will appear as separate from you, and you will experience desire and fear. As long as there is identification with the body, attractions and repulsions will operate. You cannot but see the world through the ideas you have about yourself. Managing desire has nothing to do with your relation-

such a vision. All experience rests on the reality of objects. If you investigate you will find that objects are unreal. Thus the effect of an unreal object is also non-existent and the experience of any effect is delusion. Let the end of desire and experience come into view through correct seeing. Understand that the world has no real existence and it will no longer be

The state of craving inhibits deeper experience Jac O'Keeffe

The smallest desire has the ability to ignite a long line of action as one objective idea feeds the next. To engage in desire is a lack of discrimination

to create an objectified world. Then if this apparent division into subject-object is taken to be true, the desires to have and to own, to acquire and enjoy, will follow. Thus the mind will make the body dance to its tunes. When a desire is fulfilled the personal 'I' is happy for a while. This happiness arises because of the absence of desire and has nothing to do with the properties of the object of desire. Original perfection

ships with objects of desire; it is your own misunderstanding that requires correction. Find out how the perception of objects arises in mind and do not follow thought patterns in ignorance. There is no object which is of a different nature from the subject, and as there is only the subject, how can it be seen as an object? Let it be realized that there is only subject and then it is clear that there can be no division in

troublesome. It can be said that desire is the memory of pleasure and that fear is the memory of pain. These are simply habits of mind. Once you know they are impermanent and not real, why bother with them? Pull attention away from the personal and impersonal, and all of this is just the flickering of energy. Excerpt from a forthcoming book by Jac O'Keeffe called 'From Awakening to Liberation'

enced by anything else. There would be no way for it to be affected by causes or conditions. Being totally independent, it would be sealed off from everything else. It would have no way to arise, grow, change, or pass away. Its separation would necessitate that it be inaccessible, unchanging and therefore absolutely

sense for something to change into itself, or to become what it is not. Without interdependence and mutability there is only permanence and time can have no place. Because nothing exists as its own thing, nothing can be static, enduring only as itself. Instead, everything arises from impermanent conditions as there is no

In emptiness teachings, everything is seen as temporal, however not inherently so, meaning that time cannot be its own thing either. Time is also interrelational. Without its relationship to changing phenomena, there could be no recognition of time. The idea of time existing apart from phe-

Not a single thing exists independently Susan Kahn

timeless. Yet this is often just how we think things are. The teaching of dependent existence is altogether different from the notion of an independent, unchanging reality. If something exists dependently, it cannot also exist independently. If anything is impermanent, it cannot also be permanent. That would be contradictory. Sometimes it is said that the relative world is born out of an ultimate reality. But if something inherently existed, it could only be its own indivisible self and no change, no transformation would be possible. It would make no

Without its relationship to changing phenomena, there could be no recognition of time. The idea of time existing apart from phenomena is inconceivable "thingness" to endure. Timelessness implies an existence beyond all dependent interaction and change. Inherent timelessness implies an absolute foundational, fixed presence, which begs the question of what created this absolute or of how something could create itself. Without an appreciation for impermanence, we grasp and cling in fundamentalist fashion without recognizing that nothing is solid and certain to begin with. The realization of impermanence is a great antidote to the belief in inherent existence, including a separate, independent self.

nomena is inconceivable. They are interrelated. Allowing for the impermanent and relative notion of time counteracts the idea of a self or any phenomena, mental state or realm, as fixed, static, fundamental or self-generating. It challenges the existence of eternity, as if anything could be separate and divided from the temporality of the relative. Susan Kahn's work as a licensed psychotherapist is woven together with the philosophy of Buddhist and western emptiness teachings.

The words of truth are always paradoxical. To the mind that is still, the whole universe surrenders. -Lao Tzu Nothing to do, nothing to force, nothing to want-and everything happens by itself. -Ven. Lama Gendun Rinpoche Tao is the source of both fullness and emptiness. But it is itself neither fullness nor emptiness. -Chuang Tzu We do not 'come into' this world. We come out of it as leaves from a tree. As the ocean 'waves,' the universe 'peoples.' -Alan Watts Behold the one in all things. It is seeing the second that leads you astray. -Kabir Know yourself as me. Just as one sees himself as two when reflected in a mirror, so do you appear as "you" and "I." But, in reality, we are One. -Srimad Bhagavatam There exists just the One mind. -Huang-Po No divinity if not One divinity. -Mohammed

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How does Pakistan see the War on Terrorism? D SUBA CHANDRAN

his commentary is a response to a recent article on the war on terrorism (WoT), written by a former Foreign Secretary of Pakistan, Ambassador Shamsad Ahmed, which appeared in The News. Ambassador Ahmed argued: "We never had extremism in our country. Gen Musharraf allowed this monster to grow only to remain relevant in the war on terror and thus prolong his military rule. We also didn't have this intensity of violence before he took over. The only violence we knew was sectarian in nature. Our involvement in this campaign today complicates our tasks, both at home and at regional and global levels. Our territorial integrity is being violated with impunity. We are accepting the responsibility for crimes we have not committed." What is the position of the majority of people in Pakistan on the war on terrorism? Extremism in Pakistan is a post-9/11 phenomenon? Many in Pakistan believe that the radical violence in Pakistan is the result of the American invasion of Afghanistan. However, neither history nor facts support this position fully. True, the nature of violence and its extent in Pakistan post-9/11 is unprecedented as compared to before, but to blame everything on 9/11 would be doing great disservice to the history of Pakistan. There were, at least, three streaks of violence existing simultaneously within Pakistan, even before 9/11. The first streak was sectarian in nature, whose reverberations could be seen from the 1950s. While the sectarian strain initially targeted only the Ahmadiyah sect, it underwent significant changes since the 1970s. The Khomeini revolution in Iran and General Zia's rule expanded the sectarian targets to include the Shias as well. Moreover, in the 1990s, sub-sects of Sunni Islam, such as the Barelvis and Deobandis were also targeted. Today, Sufi Islam has also been targeted as seen in the suicide attacks on Sufi shrines in Karachi and Lahore. The second streak of violence within Pakistan was the blow back of its intervention in India and Afghanistan. Pakistan's voluntary involvement in the US-led jihad in Afghanistan in the 1980s not only militarized the Pashtun society in FATA, but also radicalized it through the use of jihad, fed by numerous madrassas. This involvement also allowed

the international radical groups, mainly Osama bin Laden and his al Qaeda, along with numerous other radical outfits from Chechenya and Uzbekistan to enter into the tribal regions of Pakistan. This intermingling would have followed an independent violent course, irrespective of 9/ 11 and the American invasion of Afghanistan. Pakistan's involvement in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) in the late 1980s and 1990s through proxies, such as Lashkar-e-Toiba, Jaish-eMohammad and Harkat-ulMujahideen started another trend.

Pervez Musharraf

While the Lashkar remains under the control of the Pakistani Establishment until today, half of what is referred to as the Punjabi Taliban comes from the erstwhile Jaish-eMohammad. The militarization and

If he was the problem, what differences has there been in Pakistan's pursuit of the WoT after he left office in 2008? Although, President Zardari, Lt. Gen. Pasha, General Kayani and Prime Minister Gilani did have an option to discredit Musharraf and start all over, what did they do? radicalization of the society in Punjab, especially the southern belt, is primarily to achieve Pakistan's external interests in J&K and the rest of India. The third streak of violence is ethnic in nature. From Quetta to Karachi, the primarily ethno-politi-

cal violent streak is led by the Baloch and Mohajir communities. Today, the Pashtuns have also become the perpetrators of violence, especially in Karachi. The religious parties and their radical support groups super-impose a sectarian layer on an existing fault line, for purely political reasons. How is 9/11 and the resultant American invasion related to the above mentioned streaks of violence and extremism? Blame Musharraf for everything that is going wrong today, especially Pakistan's position on WoT Today, it has become fashionable within Pakistan to blame Musharraf for everything. He was neither a saint nor a statesman, but a great survivor. What were his options when faced with an impending American attack for not supporting its war on terror? He was, instead, at the receiving end of the fallout of the policies followed by the military, political and intelligence leadership in the 1980s and 1990s. If he was the problem, what differences has there been in Pakistan's pursuit of the WoT after he left office in 2008? Although, President Zardari, Lt. Gen. Pasha, General Kayani and Prime Minister Gilani did have an option to discredit Musharraf and start all over, what did they do? It is correct, as Ambassador Ahmed has highlighted, that there is pressure on Pakistan, at times, to accept the responsibility for crimes they have not committed. But what about accepting those crimes that have been deliberately committed by Pakistan in the name of pursuing their national interests? A section within Pakistan, is attempting to look inwards and stabilize the future course of Pakistan by reshaping the internal and external relations. Unfortunately, they are in a minority, and often criticized as being moderates, liberals and/or pro-American or proIndian. Blaming everything on 9/11 is escaping from the reality and externalizing the internal problems that led to radicalism in Pakistan. Such a projection would harm Pakistan more than finding any solutions to the problem. If the diagnosis itself is wrong, what are the chances of coming up with the right prescriptions? The writer is Director, Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies & Visiting Professor, Pakistan Studies Program, Jamia Millia Islamia

India Post Bashing media

cartoon drawn in 1949, included in national textbooks in 2006, has been discovered in 2012 by Indian society's elected representatives to Parliament as offensive towards them. For six years it was not offensive because it had not been discovered. But once a Tamil Nadu Dalit MP misread it as offensive and displayed it in Parliament, every MP of any dispensation vent his/her ire against it. Not only that they found all the cartoons in the textbooks offensive. The saddest development was the government of the day readily succumbing to the pressure and announcing its intention to ban all cartoons from textbooks. This is not an isolated incident of intolerance by the MPs and the UPA government. Education Minister Kapil Sibal exposed his intentions to censor media, including the social networking websites, when he found something offensive being spread there about his leader, Congress president Sonia Gandhi. Ever since the government's information and broadcasting minister has been itching to censor the loud and boisterous TV channels. It is interesting that ban the cartoons campaign was started by the chief minister of West Bengal, Ms Mamata Banerjee. It used to be said that what Bengal thinks today, the rest of India will think tomorrow. A cartoon in the Indian Express depicts it as "What Bengal thinks yesterday, India thinks today." Instead of India's elected representatives demonstrating maturity and pointing out the churlishness of the Bengal chief minister, they have outdone her in peevishness by finding fault at criticism where no malice is intended. In fact the MPs find they cannot freely continue their lavish lifestyle without the threat of exposure by the media. So they want to silence the media, every aspect of it. The "discovery" of an allegedly offensive cartoon or two is just a pretext. The security of the old caste and community support is becoming fragile with the people increasingly judging their representatives by performance. This is something the Indian MPs are not used to. So instead of improving their performance as people's representatives, they are gunning for those who seek to expose the truth about their misdeeds. The role of the UPA government in this controversy has been saddening. In fact they seem to be happy at the opportunity given by this drama in parliament to get at those critical of the government. Punitive measures like denying advertisements to critical publications are already being taken. The judiciary has also joined in this bashing of the media hurt by exposures which are not sparing the judges. The media also is not above board. There are national newspapers which promote particular firms clothed in the form of news. During elections stories are published to promote candidates who pay and those who don't pay are ignored. It is the people of the country who are being cheated by the government, MPs, judiciary and the media. It is interesting to note the silence of the generally outspoken chief of the Press Council Markandey Katju. He had famously declared that 90 percent of Indians are fools. And most journalists are uneducated. We have been waiting for long to hear what expression he uses to describe the conduct of the present lot of MPs in Parliament, or of the government ministers like Kapil Sibal. In fact he has never commented on the functioning of the UPA government, particularly the Congress ministers and the Congress party leaders. We know that Justice Katju was appointed by the government. The function of the Press Council is to defend the media against onslaughts. Instead he seems to be following a government brief to control the media.

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