IndiaPost_05-27-2011 by Ghanshyam Bisht

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Shikaripur N. Sridhar NEW YORK • WASHINGTON D.C. • CHICAGO • ATLANTA • CALIFORNIA

Geeta Menon appointed Dean of NYU school Details on page 34

Indian Americans to join Ramdev's Satyagraha Details on page 9

Sinha killers’ messages as evidence Details on page 10

Bill Gates praises Nitish Kumar at Health Assembly Details on page 36

15 Indians in outstanding students’ list Details on page 15

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

Are women as jurors more reliable? Last week’s result

India harasses Indians, welcomes foreigners YES 78%

NO 22%

VOL 16, No. 872

May 27, 2011

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8 WOMEN IN RANA TRIAL JURY OF 12

CHICAGO: Twelve Jurors have been selected as the Chicago hearings in the 26/11 case began with suspect Tahawwur Hussain Rana going on trial after being indicted, media reports said. US District Court Judge Harry D Leinenweber questioned 100 jurors on their views on Islam and terrorism and selected 12 as the final jury. The 12-member jury, with six alternates, consists of four men and eight women. They were sworn in at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse. "We are pleased with the composition and proceedings of the jury selection because of the detailed questionnaire and the great selection process," Rana's attorney Patrick Blegen told reporters. "We got a jury we most believe will give him a fair trial," Blegen said. Details on page 5

Sridhar named Distinguished Prof of NY varsity Details on page 6

Ricky Gill to run for US Congress Details on page 19

India announces 18th Know India program Details on page 6

CONTENTS Bollywood ---------------------- 24-25 Classifieds ------------------------- 47 Community Post --------------- 9-23 Date Book -------------------------- 46 Edit Page --------------------------- 49 HealthScience Post --------- 36-39 Horoscope ------------------------- 28 Immigration Post ------------- 42-44 Life Style ----------------------- 26-27 Philosophy ------------------------- 48

NEW DADA OF BENGAL: Trinamool Congress Chief Mamata Banerjee, who wiped out 34 years of Communist rule in the state with an overwhelming victory in the Assembly elections in alliance with the Congress, greets Congress President Sonia Gandhi in New Delhi when she called on her on May 16.

Certified by “CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL Readership 117,765”

Publisherís Diary ------------------ 4 Real Estate -------------------- 40-41 TechBiz Post ------------------- 34-35 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 29-31

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May 27, 2011

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ardly have possible Obama challengers in the 2012 general elections come into focus, and already Republican Presidential contenders are falling off the wagon even before the race began. Last week, former governor Mike Huckabee (who would have gotten half way through the primaries at least), and celebrity business tycoon Donald Trump, (who didn't have a crying chance even to go as far as the primaries), announced their intention to quit - their decision not necessarily leaving a void on the GOP platform, but rather leaving much fodder for comedy show hosts. The first of the season's GOP debates that took place early this month had only some of the lesser known hopefuls on the grill, while the Party's star attractions like Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich, Sarah Palin and Michele Bachmann stayed away, as if waiting for more of their colleagues to fall by the wayside before they joined the fray. Not all Republican hopefuls are without merit. While the token - if not glamorous - female representation of Sarah Palin and Michele Bachmann would be better off saving campaign funds, time and effort, some others like former governors Tim Pawlenty and Mitt Romney do stand the chance of giving President Obama a hearty run. Newt Gingrich, well, as a comedy show host said, lacks that 'Presidential' charisma. Personalities apart, on issues, there is nothing specific the various Republican contenders are hinging their campaign on. Almost all of them oppose, across the board, whatever Obama does, be it the economy, healthcare, immigration or education. Their problem is not that they oppose Obama policies because they have alternative ideas that will work better for the country; their problem is that they simply do not like Obama. Whether such a strong sentiment is enough to sway votes in their favor is doubtful. But then, if any of these odd contenders want to be taken seriously, they had better come up with some solutions and not issues. The job of President of United States of America is not the most enviable anymore.

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Send the guy Popular actress Priyanka Chopra says "I am ready to get married tomorrow, provided I find a nice guy!"

Cover Story: Jurors selected Twelve Jurors have been selected as the Chicago hearings began against 26/11 suspect Tahawwur Hussain Rana.

Community: Support for Baba Indian Americans have declared their support to Baba Ramdev's movement against corruption in India.

Health: Poor healthcare An abysmally low government spending at USD 32 per capita - characterizes the poor state of healthcare in India.

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Travel: Chamba The small town of Chamba is located in a picturesque valley, amidst the Shivalik ranges and is famous for its temples.

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May 27, 2011

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8 women in Rana trial jury of 12 CHICAGO: Twelve Jurors have been selected as the Chicago hearings in the 26/11 case began with suspect Tahawwur Hussain Rana going on trial after being indicted, media reports said. US District Court Judge Harry D Leinenweber questioned 100 jurors on their views on Islam and terrorism and selected 12 as the final jury. The 12-member jury, with six alternates, consists of four men and eight women. They were sworn in at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse. "We are pleased with the composition and proceedings of the jury selection because of the detailed questionnaire and the great selection process," Rana's attorney Patrick Blegen told reporters. "We got a jury we most believe will give him a fair trial," Blegen said. Rana's other attorney Charlie Swift said they are ready for the trial. "We are preparing opening statements. It is a good case with a fair process. Rana's only crime is to be friends with David Headley," said Swift. About 100 jurors had filed extensive questionnaires about their backgrounds and topics surrounding the Rana's trial, where he faces the charge of providing support to former classmate carry out recon for the 26/11 Mumbai

attacks that killed over 160 people including six Americans. The trial is likely to expose links of the Pakistan spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) with the Mumbai attacks, putting further pressure on the country to expedite its actions against the 26/11 accused currently running free in the south Asian nation.

Tahawwur Hussain Rana

"We have asked the Pakistani Government to address those allegations in the past," said State Department spokesman Mark Toner, saying that the US had formally demanded Pakistan's response on its alleged involvement in the Mumbai terror attacks. Without giving further details, Toner said: "There's a legal process underway, and anything I say from here can obviously... I think we have been clear, again,

that this is an ongoing legal process, trial, and so I can't say a lot about it." "But speaking globally about the Mumbai attacks, we have asked that all parties answer questions that have been raised by the Mumbai attacks," Toner said. According to reports, Rana is likely to state that he and co-ac-

The US government on May 9 filed a second chargesheet in a Chicago court in the 26/11 terror strike in Mumbai naming five people as accused in the case of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;conspiracy to maim, murder and bomb places of public use in Indiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; cused David Headley were recruited on behalf of Pakistani spy services, even though his lawyers last month rubbished the reports and denied any 'knowing involvement' in the 26/11. A report in The Globe and Mail newspaper had first claimed that both Rana and his friend Headley will say that they believed themselves to be working for both the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), a terrorist group, and the Inter-Services In-

Asia Society urges policy shifts in Pakistan India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Preventing Pakistan from further deterioration will require a long-term commitment from the government of Pakistan, the United States, and other international stakeholders to promote genuine reform in the coming decade, according to a report released May 18 by the Asia Society Pakistan 2020 Study Group. The Study Group says this commitment must be enshrined in a comprehensive package of policies aimed at promoting sustainable constitutional democracy, credible and effective rule of law and law enforcement, a significant expansion and improvement of the education and health sectors, and a peaceful resolution of the conflict with India. Economic growth and foreign investment in Pakistan arguably will follow such progress, it says. The Group's report, Pakistan 2020: A Vision for Building a Better

Future, emphasizes that without the urgent adoption of both remedial and revolutionary measures in all of these areas, the challenges facing Pakistan - including terrorism, religious extremism, underdevelopment, and chronic political

The report was written by the Asia Society's Bernard Schwartz Fellow, Hassan Abbas who served in the administrations of Prime Minister Benazir Bhuttoand President Pervez Musharraf instability - will become more serious over time. While Pakistan's path will be defined and driven by internal and regional factors, the international community, especially

telligence (ISI), Pakistan's spy agency. The US government on May 9 filed a second chargesheet in a Chicago court in the 26/11 terror strike in Mumbai naming five people as accused in the case of "conspiracy to maim, murder and bomb places of public use in India". The chargesheet filed in the US

the United States and its allies, must continue to play a supportive role, the report says. The Pakistan 2020 Study Group is the first group of its kind in recent years to include a significant number of leading experts from Pakistan and the United States - 30 in all - representing a range of sectors. Members include former diplomats, military leaders, and intelligence officials, journalists and media personalities, economists and development specialists, scientists, and experts in the fields of health, education, governance and law, and natural resources and the environment. The report was written by the Asia Society's Bernard Schwartz Fellow, Hassan Abbas who served in the administrations of Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto (19941995) and President Pervez Musharraf (1999-2000). Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 7

court named the five accused as: Sajid Majeed, Abu Qahafa, Mazhar Iqbal, Major Iqbal and a Lashkar-e-Toiba member known as D. The accused were named in the Tahawwur Rana case. Rana is a Pakistani Canadian and like Pakistani American David Coleman Headley is involved in the Mumbai attack who was indicted along with several other suspects. All accused were charged in

the district court in Chicago though none of them is in custody of the US government. US paper Chicago Tribune said Tahawwur Hussain Rana is alleged to have provided a cover for the scout (Headley) "who checked out locations for the deadly rampage and acted as a messenger for the Pakistani terrorist group allegedly behind the 2008 attack." In the worst terrorist attacks in India, Pakistani-trained gunmen laid siege on Mumbai since November 26, 2008, killing over 160 people, including foreigners, in attacks on a railway station, luxury hotels and a Jewish centre, among other targets. Rana, who was arrested along with Headley by the US' Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Illinois, is accused of providing terrorists with the false credentials they used to pick targets in Mumbai. LeT is blamed for the attack, though Pakistani government's hand is also suspected - a charge refuted by the country where 9/ 11 mastermind Osama bin Laden was found in a garrison town, just 60 km north of capital Islamabad. The chargesheet filed in the US court named the five accused as: Sajid Majeed, Abu Qahafa, Mazhar Iqbal, Major Iqbal and a Lashkar-e-Toiba member known as D.-Agencies

India Studies at Univ of Houston

India Post News Service

NEW YORK: As the preeminent public university in Houston, the University of Houston is launching an India Studies Program, in keeping with its commitment to the study of world cultures, the promotion of global commerce, and the enhancement of international understanding. The proposed India Studies Program will promote teaching

and scholarship focused on the history, politics, economics, languages, and culture of India. Courses offered and future courses include Elementary Hindi and Language Lab; Intermediate Hindi; Hindu Diaspora; Hinduism & Jainism; Asian Religions; Anthropology and Archeology of India; Art of India; History of India; Indian History, Arts and Architecture; Religions of India; and Indian Politics.

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Sridhar appointed as SUNY Distinguished Professor India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The Board of Trustees of the State University of New York, the largest public university system in the US, on May 11 appointed Shikaripur N. Sridhar, Professor of Linguistics and India Studies at Stony Brook University, to the rank of Distinguished Service Professor. This rank is above that of the Full Professor and is the highest faculty honor conferred by the university. In conferring this honor, said SUNY Chancellor Nancy L. Zimpher said, "We proudly recognize the extraordinary achievements of our teachers, scholars, and mentors, all of whom serve as stellar examples of SUNY's commitment to excellence." "It is with great pride that we recognize the brilliant scholars and teachers whose service merits one of the SUNY distinguished ranks," said Board Chairman Carl T. Hayden. The Distinguished Service Professorship is conferred upon instructional faculty at SUNY's colleges who have achieved a notable reputation for extraordinary

service not only to the campus and to SUNY, but also to the community, the State of New York and/ or even the nation, by sustained effort in the application of intellectual skills drawing from the candidate's scholarly and research interests to issues of pub-

Sridhar is recognized as the world's leading authority on the linguistics of his native language, Kannada and has been influential in several areas of Indian and applied linguistics lic concern. Professor Sridhar has been a member of the faculty at Stony Brook University since 1980. Born in Shimoga, Karnataka, India, Professor Sridhar received a Master's degree in English Literature and Linguistics from Bangalore University; he did his Ph.D. in Lin-

guistics at the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. He has conducted extensive research in descriptive, theoretical and applied linguistics, including bilingualism, sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, second language acquisition, and World English. Sridhar is recognized as the world's leading authority on the linguistics of his native language, Kannada and has been influential in several areas of Indian and applied linguistics. He has authored three books, Kannada Grammar, Cognition and Sentence Production, and Indina Kannada ("Contemporary Kannada,"). Prof. Sridhar co-founded the Center for India Studies at the Stony Brook University, serving as its Director from 1997-2002 and again 2008 to the present. He also spearheaded the faculty effort for establishment of a new Department of Asian and Asian American Studies at Stony Brook, and served as its Founding Chair from 2002-8. The department teaches some 100 courses per year. Prof. Sridhar also founded the India Society at Stony Brook in 1989.

Publish list of NRI 'proclaimed offenders,' Kangura demands India Post News Service

CHANDIGARH: Qila Raipur MLA Jassi Khangura has challenged Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal to reveal the true extent of the number of NRIs branded as proclaimed offenders. Khangura stated that as the Centre had now removed many Sikh NRIs from the entry blacklist, it is now the turn of the Punjab Government to remove the injustice of false FIRs that has rendered so many NRIs as proclaimed offenders. Khangura stressed that on 6 January 2008, Badal had at the Punjab government NRI samellan at Jalandhar declared that a list of all NRIs declared as proclaimed offenders would be published on the Internet, yet some 40 months later this has still not happened. Khangura dared Badal to publish the list in full immediately. Khangura regretted that in spite of having both a department for NRI affairs headed by a Minister, S. Balbir Singh Bath, and now an NRI cell within the Chief

Minister's Office, there was still precious little remedy available for NRIs. The sad fact, stated the MLA, is that "Badal and his stooges

Jassi Khangura

have over the term of this administration perfected the art of harassing the NRI with false charges and FIRs, resulting in the NRI having to flee India in fear of arrest, only to be declared as a proclaimed offenders basis notices that were never served on the NRI."

As the only NRI origin MLA in Punjab, Khangura regretted that this Akali administration had never been sincere to NRIs, as it had presided over the loot of thousands of crores of NRI assets. That is the reason why the Badals are unable to face NRIs outside India. They cannot step foot in Canada. In the USA they have to hire private security, perhaps the first Punjab CM ever to feel the need. Khangura stressed, "I understand from reliable sources that this Akali administration has filed more than 13,000 false cases against NRIs, resulting in an additional 2,600 NRIs being declared as proclaimed offenders. Khangura continued "Many NRIs are now languishing in prisons in India as they were unaware of their status as proclaimed offenders and were arrested on arrival in India". Khangura said, "Daily I receive calls and emails from distressed NRIs seeking help and assistance. The Badals will soon face the full wrath of the NRI community in the forthcoming assembly elections."

India announces 18th Know India program India Post News Service

ship with one or two State Governments. The participants, PIOs in the age group of 18-26 years, are selected based on recommendations received from Heads of Indian Missions/Posts abroad. Selected participants are provided with full hospitality in India during the duration of the program. 90% (ninety percent) of the total cost of air ticket (at lowest economy excursion fare) is refundable to

NEW YORK: The 18th Know India Program (KIP) conducted by the Ministry of Overseas Indians' Affairs for Diaspora youth is proposed to be held August 20-Sept 11 this year, with Goa as a Partner State. The 19th KIP is scheduled from Dec 21, 2011 to Jan 10, 2012 with Rajasthan as the Partner State, and will coincide with Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2012 to be held at Jaipur. Similarly, the four- Know India Program and week Study India Pro- Study India Program are gram (SIP), also conducted by the Ministry orientation programs for of Overseas Indians' Diaspora youth, with a view to Affairs, is proposed to be held twice this year - promote awareness on differthe first time from July ent facets of life in India 18 to Aug 17, and the second from Dec 14, 2011 to Jan 13, 2012. The Indian the participants on successful Institute of Public Administration completion of the program by (IIPA) will be the Program Coordi- them. The content of the program nator Partner Institute for SIP. Know India Program and Study broadly includes presentations on India Program are orientation pro- the country, political process, degrams for Diaspora youth, with a velopments in various sectors; view to promote awareness on dif- visits to some industries and vilferent facets of life in India and lages; exposure to Indian media, the progress made by the coun- visits to historical places, and call try in various fields e.g. economic, on high dignitaries such as the industrial, education, Science & President of India and the Chief Technology, Communication & Election Commissioner. For more information check out Information Technology, culture. These are conducted in partner- http://knowindiaprogram.com/

Compete with kids in Beijing and Mumbai: Obama WASHINGTON: Seeing it as signs of emergence of new world, US President Barack Obama has warned American students to strive hard to stay ahead as they face tough competition from youngsters in India and China. "You're competing against young people in Beijing and Mumbai. That's some tough competition. Those kids are hungry. They're working hard. And you'll need to be prepared for it," Obama said in his remarks to students at Memphis, Tennessee. "We live in a new world now. Used to be that you didn't have to have an education. If you were willing to work hard, you could go to a factory somewhere and get a job. Those times are passed. Believe it or not, when you go out there looking for a job, you're not just competing against people in Nashville or Atlanta," he said. "And as a country, we need

all of our young people to be ready. We can't just have some young people successful. We've got to have every young person contributing; earning those high school diplomas and then earning those college diplomas, or getting certified in a trade or profession. We can't succeed without it," he said in his speech. Through education, he said, one can also better oneself in other ways. "You learn how to think critically and find solutions to unexpected challenges. I remember we used to ask our teachers, 'Why am I going to need algebra?' Well, you may not have to solve for x to get a good job or to be a good parent. But you will need to think through tough problems. You'll need to think on your feet. You'll need to know how to gather facts and evaluate information.-PTI

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NJ couple pleads guilty to selling counterfeit drugs India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: An Indian American couple from Closter, New Jersey pleaded guilty on May 16, to selling counterfeit drugs manufactured in India to customers in the US Nita Patel, 47, and her husband Harshad Patel, 53, an Indian national admitted to selling the counterfeit drugs manufactured in India to customers in the United States, and pleaded guilty before US District Judge Joseph E. Irenas to one count of unlicensed distribution of pharmaceuticals. A third individual, Moloy Ghosh, 31, of India, pleaded guilty before Judge Irenas on December 15, 2010, and was sentenced by the Judge on March 22, 2011, to eight months in prison. Nita Patel, Harshad Patel, and

Ghosh were all previously arrested and charged by Complaint on April 2, 2010, US Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in Camden federal court Nita Patel offered "generic" forms of patented pharmaceutical products for sale over the Internet, the source of which was an Indian company. When contacted by an undercover law enforcement officer, Nita Patel provided a price list of products offering for sale "Generic Viagra," "Generic Cialis," and "Generic Levitra," each of which is a patent-protected erectile dysfunction drug manufactured in the Untied States. Over the course of several months, Nita Patel and her husband negotiated with the under-

cover officer for the sale of more than 300,000 tablets of counterfeit drugs, including the erectile

Under Federal law, it is illegal to distribute wholesale quantities of pharmaceuticals without a license to do so. Neither the Patels nor Ghosh had such a license in the State of New Jersey dysfunction drugs, as well as counterfeit versions of Abilify (a drug used for the treatment of

15 Indian American students among Presidential Scholars India Post News Service

NEW YORK: At least 15 Indian American students are among the 2011 US Presidential Scholars this year. These students are among the 141 outstanding high school seniors who have been selected by the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars appointed by the President, for demonstrating outstanding academic achievement, artistic excellence, leadership, citizenship, service and contribution to school and community. The Presidential Scholars will be honored for their accomplishments in Washington D.C., from June 18-21. "The US Presidential Scholars exemplify what dedication to achievement and setting high standards can symbolize for all youth," said US Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. "The Department of Education congratulates these students on their artistic and academic accomplishments." The 141 US Presidential Scholars include one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and from US families living abroad, as well as 15 chosen at-large and 20 Presidential Scholars in the Arts. For the past 47 years, this prestigious program has honored more than 6,000 of the nation's top-performing students. Of the three million students expected to graduate from high school this year, more than 3,000 candidates qualified on the basis of outstanding

performance on the College Board SAT and ACT exams, or by nomination through the nationwide YoungArts competition conducted by the National Foundation for Advancement in the Arts. The US Presidential Scholars Program was created in 1964 to

The 141 US Presidential Scholars include one young man and one young woman from each state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico, and from US families living abroad, as well as 15 chosen at-large honor academic achievement. It was expanded in 1979 to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in the visual, literary and performing arts. Since 1983, each Presidential Scholar has invited his or her most inspiring and challenging teacher to travel to Washington, D.C., to receive a Teacher Recognition Award from the US Department of

Education and to participate in the recognition events. Among the selected 15 Indian American students are: Teja R. Alapati of Randolph School from Huntsville, Alabama; Keshav Amla of Phoenic Country Day School from Chandler, Arizona and Amita Gupta of University High School, Tucson, Arizona; Neha Kumar of Saint Mary's Episcopal School in Forrest City, Arkansas; Lara Mitra of Sidwell Friends School, Washington DC; Akshay V. Save of Lake Mary High School in Longwood, Florida; Rohit Agrawal of Wayzata High School from Plymouth, Minnesota; Samantha S. Nanayakkara of Mississippi School for Mathematics & Science, Oxford, Mississippi; Sanchay Gupta of The Meadows School, Las Vegas, Nevada; Divya V. Shah of Clarkstown High School South in West Nyack, New York; Anjali R. Sawh of Edmond North High School, Edmond, Oklahoma; Joya A. Ahmad of William Penn Charter School in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Karthik Sethuraman of William P. Clements High School in Sugar Land, Texas; and Arjun S. Dhillon of Fort Atkinson High School in Fort Atkinson, Wisconsin.

schizophrenia and bipolar disorder), Lexapro (a drug used for the treatment of depression), and Plavix (a drug used as an anti-coagulant). All of the counterfeit drugs were shipped from Ghosh's business in India, where Ghosh lived and worked before traveling to the United States on a business visa on April 2, 2010 - the day before he was arrested. Ghosh and Nita Patel used fictitious names on Customs Declaration forms in order to avoid detection. Had the drugs the defendants sold to the undercover law enforcement officer been authentic, they would have had a Wholesale Acquisition Cost of more than $2.5 million. The tablets, which in some cases were designed to mimic the appearance of the legitimate drugs, were not tested or

approved by the FDA for distribution in the United States, and had labels that did not contain required safety warnings. Under Federal law, it is illegal to distribute wholesale quantities of pharmaceuticals without a license to do so. Neither the Patels nor Ghosh had such a license in the State of New Jersey. The charge to which Nita and Harshad Patel pleaded guilty carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. Sentencing is currently scheduled for August 23. US Attorney Fishman credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael B. Ward in Newark, with the investigation leading to the guilty pleas.

China to give Pak 50 Thunder jets; talks for stealth on ISLAMABAD: China has light fighter aircraft to Pakistan. agreed to immediately provide They are discussing the mode Pakistan 50 new JF-17 Thunder of payment and the number of multi-role jets under a co-produc- planes to be provided to Pakistan, tion agreement even as talks are the report said. on for more fighter aircraft includWith the supply of the new ing those with stealth technology. fighters, Pakistan Air Force will China will immediately provide now have a total of 260 Chinese 50 JF-17 Thunder aircraft to Paki- jets, making them the mainstay of stan, an unnamed official was the force. quoted as saying by the Dawn Meanwhile, in a sign of greater daily. "We will get these planes in weeks," he The official said Pakistan and said, adding that a for- China were already jointly mal agreement to that producing the JF-17 aircraft, effect was being signed. The official said Pa- but these 50 planes would be kistan and China were equipped with more already jointly producing the JF-17 aircraft, sophisticated avionics but these 50 planes would be equipped with more so- cooperation between the two phisticated avionics. countries, China will also launch He said the war planes to be a satellite for Pakistan on August fully funded by China would help 14. bolster Pakistan's defense and add The satellite will supply "multo tactical capability of its air tifarious data" to Pakistan, the reforce. port said. The News daily reported that Prime Minister Yousuf Raza it is likely that these planes will be Gilani, who was on a visit to China, supplied by June next year. said both sides had agreed to inIt added that the two countries crease defense cooperation and are also discussing the supply of China had assured Pakistan of Chinese J-20 stealth jets and help in enhancing the capacity of Xiaolong/FC-1 multi-purpose its armed forces. -PTI

Asia Society urges policy shifts in Pakistan Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 5

"Pakistan faces enormous challenges in the years ahead," said Abbas. "But the people of Pakistan have shown a remarkable resilience in addressing some of these challenges, and there is a

high potential for reform and development in the country. Progressive and constructive policy shifts in Pakistan, as suggested throughout the Study Group's report, are what truly matter in the long term."

"As facts about the killing of Osama bin Laden by US forces in Pakistan come to light, relations between Islamabad and Washington and its allies will be severely tested. The United States and the broader international community

have an extremely important stake in helping to set Pakistan on a steady path. Ultimately, a stable Pakistan is the only effective way to tackle militant sanctuaries in the country and bring a durable peace to South Asia," says Abbas.

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NY celebrates 150th Rabindranath Tagore anniversary India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer joined in Times Square on May 7, with a diverse and eclectic group of actors, musicians, and writers to celebrate the 150th birthday of the Bengali poet Rabindranath Tagore. The celebration of Tagore's birthday has become a tradition for New York City. On May 7, 1961, Times Square was renamed "Tagore Square" in recognition of the poet's 100th birthday. In addition to declaring May 7 "Tagore Day" in the Borough of Manhattan, Borough President Stringer

a city defined by its diversity, where 170 different languages are spoken and an array of different races and ethnicities live together in harmony," said Stringer. "As a poet, Tagore captured the beauty in tolerance and truth. I hope a few more New Yorkers walk away from today's event with an appreciation for this artistic legend." The presentation also included the World Premiere of a Scottish song that Tagore translated into Bengali and has been in production for the past year. Two American-born singers, Kat Gang and Sumona Roy, performed the Scottish song fol-

Holding up the NYS Resolution

presented the first-ever key to the Borough to award-winning film actress and director Aparna Sen. She is the recipient of three National Film Awards and eight international film festival awards. The Borough President cohosted the event with USIN Celebrations, a community organization which was co-founded by New York City District Leader Uma Sengupta and Roger Sen Gupta. USIN Celebrations provides educational services, supports the arts and creates awareness for and about the South Asian American community and surrounding communities. "It is only fitting that we celebrate Tagore's 150th birthday in

lowed by a Bengali rendition and chorus led by Anima Chaudhuri and the Indian Cultural Center of New York. While the Bengali version was being sung there was a simultaneous dance interpretation led by Rimli Roy and her troupe from Surati for the Performing Arts. The project was conceived and sponsored by Roger Sengupta. On the occasion, Senator Malcolm A. Smith said: "It is an honor to be here to celebrate the great Rabindranath Tagore's work in literature, music, philosophy and the arts. I have had the privilege to travel twice to Calcutta, the land that Tagore was born in and see first-hand

the contributions that he made to India and Bangladesh. Today, as we stand here in Times Square, as some call it the 'financial capital of the world,' we are able to honor, preserve and share the contributions that Tagore made to the world." Roger Sengupta, Co-founder of Celebrations said: "Today we have been able to share the richness of Tagore with the mosaic and mixture of New York City residents. It is also very fitting that on Tagore's 150th Anniversary, Times Square was named Tagore Square, and we hope that on his 200th birthday there will be a street in New York City named Tagore Way. So I invite the next generation to take on this task." Uma Sengupta, District leader and Co-founder of Celebrations said: "Tagore is renowned as a worldwide poet, writer and reformer. His vision of creating diversity during British India was revolutionary. His vision of interracial communities was revolutionary in the early 1900s and here we are today, in the most diverse city in the entire world, celebrating and honoring this great missionary guru." Tagore was a multi-talented figure who influenced generations of Indians with his contributions to literature, music, philosophy and the arts. In 1913, he was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature, the first South Asian to win such an award. Tagore's works were widely translated into

The presentation also included the World Premiere of a Scottish song that Tagore translated into Bengali and has been in production for the past year English, Dutch, German, Spanish, and Czech, and is regarded as the

Jay Sarkar, Borough President Scott Stringer, Aparna Sen, Uma Sengupta, NY State Senator Malcolm Smith

greatest poet in India's history. Born in Calcutta, Rabindrinath Tagore began writing poetry at eight years old. Some of his most famous collections of poetry are Gitanjali, Manasi, Sonar Tori, Balaka and Purobi. Tagore's career was defined by his broad and profound versatility; in addition to poetry, he published over 2,300 songs, eight novels, dozens of short-form and nonfiction works, and the national anthems of two countries - India and Bangladesh. Several of India and Bangladesh's top cultural and political figures were in attendance to celebrate Tagore's impact on their native country, including Professor Momtazuddin Ahmed, Cultural Minister of Bangladesh as well as Indian and Bengali community leaders, musicians and performers. Tagore celebrations at NY Consulate Among other prominent celebrations of the Tagore anniversary was the cultural evening at the Consulate General of India in New York, organized in collaboration with the Tagore Society of New York, which was attended by more than 100 people. Dr. Anju Kumar, Consul, informed the gathering about the year-long celebrations in India to commemorate the anniversary; about the institution of a presti-

gious International Award worth Rs. 1 crore, in the name of Rabindranath Tagore, to recognize very distinguished contributions towards the promotion of international brotherhood and fraternity; and also about the allotment of Rs. 95 crores by the Government of India towards restoration of Viswa Bharti. Professor Sugata Bose, Gardiner Professor of Oceanic History and Affairs at Harvard University and author of several books including translations of some of the finest poetry of Tagore, was the keynote speaker. He spoke about life and creations of Tagore, influence of international travel on his works and his ideas about nationalism and universalism. He ended his speech with a beautiful Tagore song, 'Amar bela je jayeâ&#x20AC;Ś' A beautiful rendition of Rabindranritya by Ritam Academy of Princeton was followed by a very innovative performance by Surati for Performing Arts. Isheeta Ganguly, who had flown in from Mumbai for the special occasion, enthralled the audience with her melodious interpretation of Rabindrasangeet. Dr. Amiya Banerjee offered a couple of more songs and drew loud applause from the delighted audience. The program ended with a spirited Rabindranritya performance by New York Dance Company.

Raja in Time ignominious club of top scandals NEW YORK: Former Telecom Minister A Raja, at the centre of the 2G spectrum allocation scam, has earned the dubious distinction of figuring in the list of Time Magazine's "an ignominious club of privileged leaders who stepped too far". The 2G scam is ranked No 2 in the list of scandals and scams in the all-time Top 10 Abuses of

Power, only next to ex-American President Richard Nixon's 'Plumbers', a secret unit tasked with digging up dirt on Pentagon Papers leaker Daniel Ellsberg. Raja, who is cooling his heels in New Delhi's Tihar jail, has beaten some tough contenders to be ranked second and be ahead of Libyan strongman Muammar Gaddafi, North Korean autocratic

leader Kim Jong-II and skirt-chasing Italian premier Silvio Berlusconi. Raja's lawyer when contacted said he did not want to comment on the report. The Time write-up on the India's Telecoms Scandal says, "In recent months, India's ruling coalition government has been rocked by an epic corruption scandal that has challenged its once unbreakable

grip on power." The Time report while including the DMK leader in its list also did not have any kind words for Indian democracy or the judiciary. It said that following 2008 elections, the country's telecommunications ministry was awarded to Andimithu Raja, "a relatively green lawmaker from a regional party who won his post as a result

of India's usual parliamentary political horse-trading." The magazine further said, "But, according to allegations that led to Raja resigning late last year, he presided over the underpricing of bandwidth to mobile companies - apparently in return for bribes - which some estimate may have cost the Indian government around USD 7 billion.-PTI

Desi News 4th season of South Asian Spelling Bee announced

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Hindu Temple plans grand expansion India Post News Service

ST. LOUIS: The Hindu Temple of St. Louis is undertaking a grand expansion of its facility in Ballwin MO. Temple plans to expand its south side with Lord Ayyappa Mahasannidanam and its north side with Sri Vasavi Kanyaka Parameshwari Alayam shrine. Ground-breaking (Bhoomi-Pooja) ceremony for north and south expansion was conducted on May 5. Kanyaka Parameshwari idol has already arrived in the temple. The Hindu temple of St. Louis was formally registered as a notfor-profit organization in Missouri in 1988. Details on page 15

Trinity College teaches from Vedas & Gita India Post News Service

HARTFORD: Prestigious Trinity College in Hartford (Connecticut, USA), whose earliest heritage was Episcopalian, now teaches from Vedas, Bhagvad Gita and Upanishads in some of its courses. Courses offered by it also teach classical Sanskrit, traditional Hinduism, Hare Krishna, Hindu views on war and peace, etc. Founded in 1823, Trinity claims to be a highly selective liberal arts and sciences college spread over 100 green acres. Details on page 18

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Ricky Gill announces candidacy for US Congress from 11th District Details on page 19

May 27, 2011

Indian Americans across US to join Baba Ramdev's Satyagraha SRIREKHA CHAKRAVARTY India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: Members of the Friends of India Society International (FISI) along with the Bharat Swabhiman Overseas (BSO) as well as the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) have declared their support to Baba Ramdev's movement against corruption in India and his indefinite fast (Bhrashtachar Mitao Satyagrah) beginning June 4 in New Delhi. At a meeting held at the Mahatma Gandhi Center in Wayne, New Jersey, Dr. Bhishma Agnihotri, president of FISI and former Ambassador-at-Large for NRIs, said groups of supporters will also be observing a token hunger fast in support of Baba Ramdev's movement, in cities across the US on June 4. The OFBJP national executive committee resolved to organize mass protests on that day. The OFBJP-led protests will be organized in New York City, Upstate NY, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Washington DC, Richmond-VA, Tampa-FL, HoustonTX, Dallas-TX, St. Louis-MO, Atlanta-GA, Chicago-IL, Boston-MA, and California. At the FISI meet, Agnihotri said Baba Ramdev had launched his anti-corruption movement the Bharat Swabhiman movement - five years ago, and what he was tackling was much broader in scope than the movement against corruption launched by social activist Anna Hazare a couple of months ago. "India is in trouble," said Agnihotri referring to the rampant corruption in the country. "I am a soldier in the fight against corruption. I told Ramdevji that I will dedicate the rest of my life to this cause." Agnihotri said one needed total commitment to fight such an issue as corruption and "because the issue is so huge, if we don't do anything all progress India has achieved will go down the drain." FISI, Agnihotri said, was created to support the anti-govern-

Dr. Bhishma Agnihotri announcing support to Baba Ramdev's anti-corruption movement in India

ment movement launched by Jayaprakash Narain against Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's rule in the 1970s. "But now the fight is not against any one government," Agnihotri pointed out. "It is against the very system that needs to be changed. Our purpose is to bring about a system change." NJ-based businessman

Pathak added that people should now think inward. "We should cleanse ourselves first and then take on the world." Another speaker, Jyontindra Patel said leaders like Baba Ramdev and Anna Hazare should work together. Corruption, he said, was cancerous and the only cure for it in a democracy was the elections where people

Baba Ramdev had launched his anti-corruption movement - the Bharat Swabhiman movement - five years ago, and what he was tackling was much broader in scope than the movement against corruption launched by social activist Anna Hazare a couple of months ago Mridul Pathak, in his observations, said it was important to root out corruption from one's mind first especially in a country like India which has a parallel economy running. "We all know the power of fasting as a form of protest. We saw it of Anna Hazare recently. Hope June 4 brings a new era in the country," he said about the proposed Satyagraha.

have the right to decide. Baba Ramdev, who is known for his healing techniques through yoga and herbal medicine, as also for his political views, has said that he would break his fast only if the government drafts a strong anti-corruption Bill that includes a death sentence for the corrupt. Ramdev's three major demands are: Take initiative to get

back the black money stashed in foreign banks; take strong action against the corrupt; and make strong legislation like Lokpal Bill against corruption. OFBJP President, Dr. Adapa Prasad gave a call to the Indian American community to come out and join the protest. Referring to the recent multi-crore scandals involving central ministers, Prasad that India was never looted in such a fashion either by the Turk-Afghan/ArabMongol invaders or European intruders. The OFBJP says that the corrupt were finding new and innovative ways to loot and stash away illegal monies in far off countries. There is a published report from Caribbean islands about how some Indian investors have been buying up small islands in recent times and the suspicion points to the involvement of high profile politicians from India. "Now, we learn that these politicians and bureaucrats have been channeling their monies through middle men like Hasan Ali," the OFBJP officials said.

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Sinha murder case

Facebook/text messages of accused allowed as evidence India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: In a significant ruling, a Superior Court Judge in New Jersey allowed Facebook conversations and text messages between the teenagers facing trial in the murder of Dr. Divyendu Sinha in Old Bridge in June last year, and said these could be used against the accused during their trial. Judge Bradley Ferencz ruled during the hearing on May 16 that 29 of the 34 text messages were admissible, but excluded five other messages as they were too inflammatory as they related to bragging by several of the boys about their actions in the attack on Dr. Sinha. The text messages were between Julian Daley, 16, Christopher Conway, 17, and Cash Johnson, 17, the night of June 25, shortly after Sinha and his two sons were attacked in front of their home on Fela Drive in Old Bridge. Star Ledger reported that in the text messages that were admitted, Conway and Daley allegedly plan to beat someone else up the night of June 26 and discuss what

they should say if questioned by police. In the messages not admitted, the two allegedly discuss how much they enjoyed beating up Sinha. The Facebook entries that were admitted were between Daley and Johnson and another series between Daley and another

Kuberiet could use to show the five conspired to attack Sinha and planned to attack someone else the next night. On June 25 last year, Sinha was taking a walk outside his home along with his wife and two sons when the accused who came in a car, got out and attacked Sinha and his

When they saw the Sinhas, authorities said, the car carrying the five teens pulled up near the family. Three teens got out and attacked Sinha, beating him to the ground with their hands and feet, authorities said. Sinha was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where he died four days later friend in which Daley relates what he, Johnson, Conway, Christian Tinli, 18, and Steven Contreras, 17, had just done. The two also discuss how Daley could hide his identity from police. Judge Ferencz said the text messages and Facebook entries are evidence Middlesex County Assistant Prosecutor Christopher

sons. The wife was unharmed, the sons suffered minor injuries but Sinha succumbed to his injuries. Many of the text messages were made within 10 minutes of the assault and discussed the attack, according to Kuberiet, who sought to use them in the boys' upcoming trial, the New Jersey daily reported.

Telugu community holds memorial service for Dyapa

Candlelight vigil was held at Albert Palace in New Jersey for Arjun Reddy Dyapa, an Indian American who was shot dead at his pharmacy on April 29 by an unidentified gunman. Family and friends organized the memorial on May 14. (Pic:Mohammed Jaffer/SnapsIndia) India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: The Telugu community in New Jersey held a memorial service May 14 for Arjun Reddy Dyapa, the pharmacist who was shot dead by an unidentified

also among the locals where he conducted his business. The service, which began with a 'Shantipath' by a Hindu priest and concluded with a candle light vigil, was attended by Dyapa's wife, daughter, brother and other

IPA CEO John Giampolo noted "No urban pharmacy owner can rest easy until the perpetrator of this crime is caught"

gunman at his Brunswick Pharmacy in Trenton on April 29. Rich tributes were paid to Dyapa, who was very popular not only among his community but

family members and friends. Speaking to India Post, Dyapa's younger brother Krishna Reddy, reflected on his older brother's generosity and helpful nature. On

the day of the tragedy, Dyapa in fact took the bullet while shielding a female assistant who was initially targeted by the killer, Krishna Reddy said. He also said his brother had never turned a customer away if he could not afford some prescription medicine at his pharmacy. All major Telugu associations in the US, including ATA, NATA, TANA, NATS and local Telugu organizations in the Tri-state area participated in the memorial service. Friends of Arjun, a group of close friends and colleagues of Arjun Dyapa announced the formation of a memorial trust in his name to continue his legacy. Over 100 people pledged support to the trust activities. Meanwhile, in view of the community's shock and outrage over Dyapa's murder, the Independent Pharmacy Alliance (IPA) offered a $2,500 reward to anyone with information leading to the killer. IPA CEO John Giampolo noted this is in addition to other rewards being offered for the capture of Dyapa's killer. "No urban pharmacy owner can rest easy until the perpetrator of this crime is caught," said Giampolo. IPA's reward offer is in addition to the rewards already offered by two local store owners and Purdue Pharma, all totaling over $10,000. The IPA has asked anyone wishing to contribute to increase this reward, to call IPA at 800-5752667.

Authorities said the juveniles, who will be tried as adults on charges of murdering Sinha, had been drinking before the attack and decided to go "wilding," and look for people to attack. When they saw the Sinhas, authorities said, the car carrying the five teens pulled up near the family. Three teens got out and attacked Sinha, beating him to the ground with their hands and feet, authorities said. Sinha was rushed to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, where he died four days later. Judge Ferencz plans to set a trial date in either August or September. Four of the five teenagers are free on bail. Daley, who has twice violated conditions of his bail, is in the Middlesex County jail in lieu of $1 million bail. The Indian American community members have been supportive of the bereaved family, and organizations like the VHP America have been urging members to show up in large numbers at the hearings and later at the trial to not only show support to the family but also solidarity as a community.

Fundraiser announced for Democratic campaign SURI SWAMY

Balwinder Singh (left) and Vinesh Virani (right) with Nancy Pelosi (C) in Chicago

CHICAGO: A group of Indian Americans in Chicagoland headed by Balwinder Singh and a newly appointed member of Nancy Pelosi Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC) cabinet, Vinesh Virani, have announced hosting a fund raiser for DCCC in

She is credited with the view that a fundraiser event in Chicagoland next month would be a welcome idea as Democrats are determined to wrest the control of the House as soon as possible Chicago on July 15. In a talk to this paper, a DCCC Cabinet member Balwinder Singh said that the fundraiser was the outcome of a talk with Rep Nancy Pelosi who was in Chicago on May 16 on her way to Milwaukee WI.

munity activist, into DCCC Cabinet to strengthen the Chicago base and both these members agreed to collect funds for the Democratic Party at the national level. ContĂd on page 13

May 27, 2011

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4th season of South Asian Spelling NY Consulate celebrates Baisakhi Bee announced

(L to R) Laurel Daring, Assistant Vice President of Diverse Markets at MetLife; Rahul Walia, CEO of Touchdown Media Inc. and founder of the South Asian Spelling Bee; Ambassador Prabhu Dayal Consul General of India-NY and Jaideep Janakiram, Head - North America, Sony Entertainment Networks at the Season 4 Launch & Anniversary Party of The 2011 MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee. India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The fourth season of the MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee was announced by Touchdown Media, the leading multicultural advertising firm at an event held in Manhattan last week. MetLife, the global provider of life insurance and other financial services, returns as the title sponsor of the contest. The event is open to children of South Asian descent up to 14 years of age and gives them a chance to test their spelling skills in their core peer group. Interested spellers need their parent or guardian to register them online at www.southasianspellingbee.com. Organized by Touchdown Media Inc., the 2011 MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee will be conducted in 10 locations across the United States starting June 18. Regional level events will be held in Los Angeles, the Bay Area, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Atlanta, New Jersey, DC Metro, New York and Boston. All events will be free to attend and open to the public. "It's great to be celebrating the 4th year of the South Asian

Spelling Bee. With the help of our sponsors and media partners, a great platform has been built for the community where spellers can test their skill and have the thrill of being on television. We have expanded to 10 cities across the US, adding Atlanta to the roster and look forward to another great season in 2011." said Rahul Walia, CEO of Touchdown Media Inc. and founder of the

regional competition will advance to the finals to be held in New Jersey in August. Like last year, MetLife has inducted the $10,000 champion's scholarship that will be awarded to the winner at the finals. "MetLife is proud to once again sponsor the South Asian Spelling Bee, and to help children enjoy a fun, educational event," said Laurel Daring, assistant vice

Former Ambassador Kanwar Sibal addressing the gathering (Pics: Mohammed Jaffer-SnapsIndia) India Post News Service

NEW YORK: More than 200 people gathered to celebrate Baisakhi on May 11, at an event organized by the Indian Consulate in New York in association with the Sikh Art and Film Foundation. Consul General Prabhu Dayal said on the occasion that the Consulate has been celebrating all festivals such as Diwali, Dussehra,

Kanwar Sibal, former Foreign Secretary of India, who was the Chief Guest at the function, said he appreciated the role of the Indian-American community for strengthening India's relations with the United States. He said that in the past there had been some hurdles which impeded the full growth of bilateral relations but these were being slowly removed. He said the potential for the growth of Indo-US relations was

Eid, Christmas, Baisakhi with the involvement of Indian community organizations. He said that Baisakhi was celebrated all over India, but it was particularly significant for the Sikh community as it was on this day that Guru Gobind Singh had founded the Sikh Khalsa. The Consul General thanked community members for turning up in such a large number for celebrating the festival at the Consulate.

very high and exhorted the IndianAmerican community to continue working for bringing the two countries closer. Teji Bindra, President of the Sikh Art & Film Foundation also addressed the gathering and explained the significance of Baisakhi. He said there was a high level of interest in America in Sikh religion and a Chair on Sikh Studies had been set up at Hofstra University.

Organized by Touchdown Media Inc., the 2011 MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee will be conducted in 10 locations across the United States starting June 18. Regional level events will be held in Los Angeles, the Bay Area, Dallas, Houston, Chicago, Atlanta, New Jersey, DC Metro, New York and Boston South Asian Spelling Bee. Each competition will begin with a written test of 25 words. The participants must spell 15 or more words correctly to advance to the afternoon oral round, which will be conducted by experienced pronouncers and judges. The top three in the oral round will receive prize money. The top two spellers of each

president of Diverse Markets at MetLife. "We're also pleased to continue helping families develop financial strategies to achieve important goals, like attaining the best education for their children." As always, The 2011 MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee will be telecast on Sony Entertainment Television, Asia in over 120 countries. Sony Entertainment Television Asia has the broadcast rights and will be showing the contest worldwide (except India and Pakistan) on their channel. Jaideep Janakiram, Head North America, Sony Entertainment Networks said, "We are delighted to see the South Asian Spelling Bee in its 4th season on Sony Entertainment Television, Asia. SET Asia plans to considerably enhance international viewer participation in its premium programs."

Consulate General of India celebrating Baisakhi festival on May 11

12 India Post

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Gujarati Samaj celebrates Spring festival ASHWIN PATEL

ST LOUIS: A two and half decade old community organization set up to preserve Gujarati culture and heritage, the Gujarati Samaj of St. Louis, Missouri, celebrated the Spring Festival 2011 with great bonhomie at St. Ann Community Center. The program started with light Gujarati food provided by board members, the Senior Citizens Group and the Youth Club members. More than 400 people attended the celebration. The cultural program started at 7 pm, with the singing of American and Indian national anthems. It was followed by a prayer offered by local Bal Vihar students. Rakesh Bhakta president of Gujarati Samaj, welcomed the gathering. The four-hour program consisted of over 27 different items performed by members, small children, juniors and seniors, who

Raas-Garba and entertainment program by youth, kids and adults at St Louis Gujarati Samaj Spring Festival celebrations

dressed up in different costumes pertaining to spring. They represented the culture of all parts of Gujarat. The program was filled

Brahmrishi at NY Senate

The Gujarati Samaj is a lead organization in St. Louis for the Indian community. It will host an India kite festival on May 21 at SportPort Park, Maryland Heights, and a picnic in July 23 at McDonald Park. The 2011 Board of directors are - President: Rakesh Bhakta, vice president: Sanjay Patel, Secretary: Mahendra R. Patel, Treasurer: Jitendra Prabhu, Members: Manhar Bhakta, Mahendra Z.Patel, Jayesh Desai, Ricky Patel and Tejas Bhakta.

piritual leader from India, Brahmrishi Kumar Swami delivered an invocation in the Chamber of the New York State Senate at its opening session in Albany, recently. Senate members honored him with a unanimous Resolution recognizing him as "one of the most scholarly figures of world religions, dedicated to the welfare of people of all faiths with an outstanding and inspiring record of community service."

Subsequently, a large number of senators lined up to meet and greet the Swami individually. Senators Dean Skelos and Jack Martins welcomed the Swami with garlands. Amongst others greeting the spiritual leader were Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano, Senator Charles Fuschillo, Senator Kemp Hannon and Assemblyman Michael Montesano. The Brahmrishi was also given a guided tour of the Governor's office and the state capital.

with folk dances, Gujarati Raas, Bollywood songs, classical songs, Bollywood remix songs and comic skits by the youth group. The Master of Ceremony for Cultural Program were Madhukar Bhakta were Snehal Vyas. The purpose of the program was to encourage a large participation, celebrate the spring festival and to provide a platform for Gujaratis to mingle with each other and also with those from other ethnic communities.

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May 27, 2011

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Art of Living Meditation Center in Schaumburg RAMESH SOPARAWALA & SURENDRA ULLAL

CHICAGO: The first of its type Meditation and Yoga center by the Art of Living Foundation is slated to open in burgeoning Schaumburg area of Chicagoland next month. Announcing this at a press meet of ethnic Indian media here at Udupi Restaurant, Vinesh Virani, a spokesman, said that this center was the outcome of a consistent demand from yoga and mediation lovers in and around Chi-

mally laid open by the Schaumburg Mayor, Al Larson in the presence of a number of prominent community activists and dignitaries. The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony is expected to be attended among others by Congressmen Joe Walsh, Danny Davis and Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky besides Illinois Treasurer Dan Rutherford and Hoffman Estate Mayor William D. McLeod. Replying to a question, why

Vinesh explained that Schaumburg is one of the most populous villages in Illinois and also is the home for a large number of Indian Americans cago, and it will be conducting classes for its members besides hosting many other activities. "There will be a nominal membership fee of $50 but there will be a free access to practice yoga exercises in the meditation hall as prescribed from time to time," he said. The Center to be located on 1251 N. Plum Grove Road, Suite No.110, Schaumburg, will be for-

Schaumburg was selected as the Center, Vinesh explained that Schaumburg is one of the most populous villages in Illinois and also is the home for a large number of Indian Americans. So the Center is going to serve both the American and Indian American citizens, who are Yoga enthusiasts and supporters of the teachings and activities of Guru Sri Sri

File photo of Vinesh Virani, Art of Living spokesman, with Guruji Sri Sri Ravishankar.

Fundraiser announced for Democratic campaign ContĂd from page 10

Balwinder Singh has been very active in the political scene. He was one of the foremost Indian Americans who supported Barack Obama a decade ago when he was little known outside Chicago and was seeking Senate seat vacated by Carol Mosley Braun. He said it was in the interest of Indian Americans and also that of India that Democrats gain control of the House. It was in this context that both Virani and Singh took initiative to host a fundraiser next month. Virani said that the venue for the fundraiser event is not decided as yet but would be somewhere in the north side. He said he would work hard with Singh to create awareness among Indian Americans to elect as many Democrats to the House of Representatives and Senate so that "our views are heard and concerns addressed." Traditionally it is Democrats who have been helping minority communities, including Indians and it was after the initiative of John F Kennedy who commenced Indian Peace Crops that more and more Indians started coming to USA for settlement. He said that Nancy Pelosi has agreed to come to the fundraiser event in July. The DCCC is the official campaign arm of the Democrats in the House of Representatives. DCCC had at least $17 million of debt heading into 2011, having tapped a big

bank credit line in a failed bid to retain the House majority on Election Day. It still faces a challenge overcoming that debt while still having the resources to back challengers and incumbents. Rep. Steve Israel will head the Democratic

Traditionally it is Democrats who have been helping minority communities, including Indians and it was after the initiative of John F Kennedy who commenced Indian Peace Crops that more and more Indians started coming to USA for settlement Congressional Campaign Committee for the 2012 election cycle, a move that will vault the 52-year-old New Yorker into his party's leadership ranks during what promises to be a political season for House Democrats. Israel was tapped by Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) for the DCCC.

Ravishankar. The Center will further expand the base of Kriya Yoga, especially propounded by Guruji. "We continuously are seeking participation of local people and school students to learn yoga as a physical discipline to open up the possibility for development of character among the students as the foundation to promote American values of courage, leadership, charity and pride in our heritage," he emphasized. The foundation has already approached the local school district and will continue to disseminate in other neighborhood schools. He said the goal of Yoga is controlling the wandering mind and developing focus to be able to make use of the enormous potential of our brain-power to bring out the best within every person. The Art of Living Foundation is an educational and humanitarian foundation working on the basic spiritual principles of love, kindness and unconditional service to the world as per the teachings of Guru Sri Sri Ravishankar. ContĂd on page 16

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Adult Literacy Program Night at IAC NAND KAPOOR

Prabhu receives 10 Diamond MJF Award HARISH RAO

Jesse White delivering a certificate to one of the learners

CHICAGO: Indo-American Center (IAC) and the North Side Literacy Coalition (NSLC) members organized Adult Literacy Program Night of 1000 Stars recently at the IAC facility on Californian/Devon Avenue in Chicago. The main purpose is to give adult literacy learners the opportunity to showcase their growing literacy skills through artistic performances, including singing songs, reciting poems, and performing dances with the broader adult literacy community. NSLC members included Albany Park Community Center, Chinese Mutual Aid Association, Howard Area Community Center, Jane Addams Resource Corporation, Midwest Asian American Center, Mercy Housing Lakefront, and

World Relief, and most prominently Secretary of State Literacy Office. "I am communicating confidently [in English]… I can be independent now," said Saroja Reddy, an IAC Literacy student

Ald Debra Silverstein addressing the meet

thing I have learned about my time spent at IAC. It provided me with opportunities to interact with people of different nationalities." The keynote speaker Secretary of State and Chief Librarian for the

"I am communicating confidently [in English]… I can be independent now," said Saroja Reddy, an IAC Literacy student from India, who began taking classes in May 2010 and is currently a Level II student from India, who began taking classes in May 2010 and is currently a Level II student. She proudly introduced herself and welcomed the attendees. With them, she shared, "There is one

State of IL, Jesse White, appreciated the efforts of IAC and other organizations for promoting literacy among immigrants, seniors, and others.

Past International President Judge Brian Stevenson from Canada greeting Dr. Austin Prabhu after presenting him the award

CHICAGO: Lions of Illinois held their Multiple District 1 Convention at the Hilton Garden Inn in Effingham about 250 miles from Chicago. Lions, Lionesses and Leos from 12 Districts from MD1 attended this gala event which started on Friday May 13 and ended on May 15th with Lions of Illinois Foun-

with International President's awards. Past District Governor (2004-05) and current First Vice District Governor Elect Dr. Austin Prabhu received 10 Diamond Melvin Jones Fellowship from Past International President Judge Brian Stevenson. Council Chairman Rick McHale praised Dr. Aus-

Contíd on page 15

Austin with his wife Terry

dation breakfast. Past International President Judge Biran Stevenson from Calgary, Alberta, Canada was the International Guest for the weekend. On May 14, during Lions of Illinois Banquet, five districts awarded their outstanding lions

tin for his dedication and hard work in promoting lionism in the US. There was a standing ovation for the gathering for Dr. Prabhu's achievement. He is the first lion to receive 10 Diamond Melvin Jones Progressive Fellowship in the State of Illinois.

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Hindu Temple plans grand expansion India Post News Service

Devotees throng at the Bhoomi Pujan ritual for expansion project.

Guru Transit to Aries celebrated

formed on Sunday May 8. A good number of devotees attended the pooja .The pooja prasadam was served for the devotees at the end. Guru Peyarchi (Jupiter Transit) was also observed on Sunday

Kanyaka Parameshwari Pooja (MotherĂs Day)

held 1990, formal inauguration in 1991, while MahaKumbhabhishekam celebrations were conducted in 2009. Eleven shilpis (artisans) were brought from India in 1997 to work on the temple project. Vijayakumar Buddhiraju, G.V. Naidu, and Satish Nayak are Chair, Vice Chair and Secretary respectively of Temple Board of Trustees while Puran Luthra, Malathi Reddy and

ContĂd from page 14

He assured all possible help. "Tell me how I can be of help," he queried Jesse white then handed out Certificates of Participation to the learners who performed at the Night of 1,000 Stars. The new 50th ward Alderman, Ms. Debra Silverstein also addressed the gathering. The event was served with refreshments donated by Tahoora Sweets and Bakery and Uru-Swati restaurants on Devon Ave. The event was efficiently and ably conducted by Renuka Sharma, Jai Ramos, Susan Chaudhri, and Chirag Shah of the Center. Sharma sees a future for the students at-

Prasanna Ayer are President, Vice President, and Secretary of its Executive Committee. Satish Babu Patibandla is the Manager. Among the Temple's purposes is: "To promote Hindu Dharma (Religion and Traditions) and culture". It also houses a library of religious publications and other media. Besides fulfilling the religious and social needs of the commu-

Health Fair conducted by Hindu Temple

nity, this Temple also undertakes various humanitarian activities, including distributing sandwiches to homeless, hosting annual health fair, collecting and donating canned food, holding free monthly legal and health clinics, etc. Named as "One of America's Best Places to Live" by Money Magazine, Ballwin in West St. Louis County is close to

Castlewood State Park and Meramec River. Tim Pogue is the Mayor. Hindu Temple of St. Louis conducted its annual Health Fair on Saturday, May 7. Blood drive, free health, vision, blood check ups are part of this event. As a community service, this event takes place every year in May. Kanyaka Parameshwari Pooja (Mother's Day pooja) was per-

Hindu Temple of St. Louis conducted its annual Health Fair on Saturday, May 7. Blood drive, free health, vision, blood check ups are part of this event. As a community service, this event takes place every year in May. Kanyaka Parameshwari Pooja (Mother's Day pooja) was performed on Sunday May 8 May 8 with special worship and pooja for Lord Dakshinamurthy. Jupiter is transiting from Meenam to Mesham and it is expected to stay in this position for a year.

Adult Literacy Program Night at IAC tending the event: "It is important to know the students will one day succeed as productive citizens in their own community, whether it's job acquisition, communicating with teachers, making friends, and especially feeling comfortable in their newly imbibed 'American' skin." Sher Rajput, Trustee of the Indo-American Center, appreciated the efforts made by participants and organizers for a successful completion of the program. Special guests were Ms. Dorothy Whitney and Ms. Saroja Reddy. Zahra Somani represented Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky.

Jesse White, Ald Silverstein, guests and NSLC members

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May 27, 2011

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ICF creating awareness for India-Japan summit SURESH SHAH

Art of Living Meditation Center in Schaumburg ContĂd from page 13

The Local Team behind India Japan summit next year in Japan - Kesha Parikh. President of NetIP Chicago, Ashwin Janakiram President of NetIP USA, Jitendra Diganvker of IADO, Vibhav Kant Upadhayay Chairman of India Center Foundation, Ashwini Srinivasan Vice President of NetIP Strategic Development, Sai Narayan Board of Director with India Center Foundation

CHICAGO: India Japan Global Partnership Summit to be held in Tokyo, from September 5 to 7 is an initiative of India Center Foundation (ICF) The summit will be jointly chaired by Yukio Hatoyama, Shinzo Abe and Sam Pitroda. This summit aims to evolve a roadmap for the Macro Vision for the India Japan Global Partnership besides defining what India can do for Japan, what Japan can do for India and what India and Japan together with its global partners can do for Asia and rest of the world. The ICF leadership headed by

Vinaykan Upadhyay addressing the meet at Water Ford

Vinaykant Upadhyay felt that it would be important to take this significant message of the new socio-economic framework to fellow Indians and others friends living across the globe. And it was in this context that Upadhyay had come to Chicago and J Diganvker, a community activist in Chicagoland, along with others took initiative and helped organize a meeting of business interests at Waterford Banquet Hall on Friday May 13. The presence of Sam Pitroda lent added importance to the meeting. Sam Pitroda with community activist J Digvenker ContĂd on page 23

It also works in special consultative status with the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) of the UN, and as such it has accredited representatives at the UN in New York, Geneva and Vienna. It also works in formal consultations with the World Health Organization (WHO). Its Dollar-a-Day service program for rural children is pursued under Care for Children program where children learn the fine art of living, making friends, handling negative emotions and the value of serving the fellow beings. Children learn to take up enjoyable challenges, hygienic living, skill of community living and a sense of belonging to each one of it. Its 5H program focuses on Home, Health, Hygiene, Harmony in Diversity and Human Values. Its Art Excel program, which offers courses for all round development

The Art of Living program provides training on stress management and rehabilitation for juvenile and adult prisoners, prisoners on parole and probation, victims of crime, at-risk youths, and even the law enforcement officers and probation staff of children and youth (8 to 21 years old), is currently offered in many Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Calcutta, and in countries like Canada and USA. The Art of Living program provides training on stress management and rehabilitation for juvenile and adult prisoners, prisoners on parole and probation, victims of crime, at-risk youths, and even the law enforcement officers and probation staff. The Youth Training Program (YTP) in India focuses on the education of rural youth and encourages them to work for the betterment of their community through medical camps, distributing clothes to the poor, creating sanitation facilities. In addition, they teach a wide variety of courses like Sahaja Samadhi, the Sudarshan Kriya and related exercises based on the ancient yoga science of breathing. The Art of Living transcends all barriers and anomalies preventing people to connect with each other through love.

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PCS participates in children's India Festival NAND KAPUR

PCS group that participated in Navy Pier Passport to India Celebration

CHICAGO: The Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago (PCS) collaborated with Chicago Children's Museum (CCM) at Navy Pier to organize the 'Passport to the World: India Festival Celebrations' on Sunday May 15. More than 300 community members participated. "This is the eleventh year in a

formed by the local Punjabi youth groups. Attendees also participated in turban tying, Bhangra dance lessons, and other Indian performing arts. An outdoor procession planned for more than 200 participants with Dhol drums and street dancing at South deck of Navy Pier had to be moved inside due

Punjabi girls presenting a skit

row that PCS has organized this event. PCS was on CCM's original planning committee when they created this event eleven years ago, and has participated in it ever since," said Rajinder Singh Mago of PCS who compeered the program inside the museum. The PCS performances depicted a mosaic of diverse traditions from the Indian state of Punjab including ethnic dresses, Dhol music, and the Punjabi folk dances Bhangra and Gidha per-

to an off-season drizzle and windy conditions, but failed to dampen the spirits of the participants. As the Punjabi procession entered into the Chicago Children's Museum, the whole place drowned in the echo of the melodious sound beats of Punjabi Dhol drum played by Dilraj Sekhon and Pardeep Deol. It seemed as if a "Baraat" had arrived. The visitors to the museum watched dance performances of children's groups arranged by PCS

Turban tying at Passport to India Festival

Chicago. Bhangra 101 dance lessons to young children and parents, and a turban tying demonstration and workshop for all visitors were also conducted by PCS volunteers. Many other performances by other groups were also held during the week long celebra-

bers. The Chicago Children's Museum provided a complimentary $12 value admission to the community members brought in by PCS. "Passport to the World is designed to expose children to a variety of cultures from different

communities and organizations like PCS Chicago. The museum values this partnership and the visitors love it," said Keith McCormick, CCM's Director of Cultural Programs who has directed this program for the last nine years. "Children's Museum provides us such a cordial and welcoming environment, that it's a wonderful experience for our children, their moms, dads, and grandparents. They look forward to it every year," said Balwinder Singh Girn, President of the Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago. The next PCS Chicago program is to award $ 1000 scholarships at "PCS Youth Graduation & Scholarship Awards Night," on Sunday June 12 starting at 5 pm, at Viceroy of India Banquets in Lombard, IL. The participants of "Rangla Punjab 2011" will also be honored and the "Rangla Punjab 2011" program

The PCS performances depicted a mosaic of diverse traditions from the Indian state of Punjab including ethnic dresses, Dhol music, and the Punjabi folk dances Bhangra and Gidha performed by the local Punjabi youth groups. Attendees also participated in turban tying, Bhangra dance lessons, and other Indian performing arts Punjabi girls presenting Kuriaya

tions. PCS Chicago and the Chicago Children's Museum had arranged four buses, three from Palatine, IL and one bus from Devon & Western Streets Chicago to usher community members to Navy Pier, at no cost to the community mem-

parts of the world. This program was about India. This provides a unique opportunity to the visitors to learn directly from the communities rather than us. This imparts authenticity and meaning to the programs. It would not be possible without the close partnership of

DVDs will be available for sale. The "PCS Basketball Tournament" is on Saturday August 6 and the "PCS Sports Festival" is on Sunday August 7. Both are allday events at Centennial Park in Addison IL, and are free and open to public.

Sikh Coalition testifies on school bullying India Post News Service

WASHINGTON: Recently the Sikh Coalition testified before the US Commission on Civil Rights on the issue of bias-based bullying against Sikh children in the post-9/11 environment. The Commission is composed of congressional and presidential ap-

pointees. It is responsible for making recommendations to our nation's leaders about upholding our most cherished civil rights laws. This is the first time that a Sikh organization has been invited to testify in front of the full Commission. The Sikh Coalition's Director of Law and Policy appeared be-

fore the Commission. His testimony discussed the challenges that Sikh students face in public schools in the United States. In particular, the testimony before the Commission highlighted the Coalition 2007 report titled Hatred in the Hallways (which found that 62% of turbaned Sikh students in Queens, New York

suffer bullying) and the 2010 Sikh Coalition report titled Bay Area Civil Rights Report 2010 (which found that 74% of turbaned Sikh boys in the San Francisco Bay Area suffer similar bullying in school). The Coalition's testimony also highlighted the case of Gurwinder Singh of Queens,

New York. Gurwinder had been bullied for almost his entire school career, including having his turban pulled off and being physically attacked by schoolmates. The Coalition's written testimony provides detailed recommendations to the federal government on how to address bias-based bullying in schools.

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Trinity College teaches from Vedas & Gita India Post News Service

HARTFORD: Prestigious Trinity College in Hartford (Connecticut, USA), whose earliest heritage was Episcopalian, now teaches from Vedas, Bhagvad Gita and Upanishads in some of its courses.

100 green acres. Besides from all over USA, its students come from 49 countries and it offers over 900 courses in 38 majors. Its Raether Library has 1,000,000 books and its student/faculty ratio is 10:1. James F. Jones, Jr. is the President while Paul E. Raether is the Chairman of Trustees of Trinity,

Welcoming this move on the part of Trinity College, Rajan Zed, president of Universal Society of Hinduism, in a statement said that religion is a complex element of our lives and it comprised much more than one's own individual experience or specific tradition Courses offered by it also teach classical Sanskrit, traditional Hinduism, Hare Krishna, Hindu views on war and peace, etc. Founded in 1823, Trinity claims to be a highly selective liberal arts and sciences college spread over

whose mission "…is to foster critical thinking, free the mind of parochialism and prejudice…" Parts of the Trinity seal, on which the motto reads "For Church and Country", reflect the college's Episcopal roots. Christianity, of which Episco-

Trinity College in Hartford

palians are a denomination, is the largest religion in the world; while Hinduism is the third largest with about a billion adherents. Welcoming this move on the

part of Trinity College, Rajan Zed, president of Universal Society of Hinduism, in a statement said that religion is a complex element of our lives and it comprised much more

than one's own individual experience or specific tradition. God, as a sign of God's munificence and benevolence, constructively wished presence of different faiths.

Muslim tourists need to visit Jerusalem A.Q. SIDDIQUI

CHICAGO: Muslims all over the world have a reason to visit Jerusalem. The Holy land has been the native land for all the Prophets Muslims believe in. There is Al-Aqsa Mosque the first direction (Qibla) to which Muslims prayed in early days. The Holy Rock where Prophet Abraham brought his son Ismael for sacrifice and from where the Prophet Muhammad ascended to Heaven to meet his Lord. But there is yet a strong reason for Muslims to visit Jerusalem and Al-Aqsa mosque. It is the announcement of Allah Himself in Holy Quran that declares it a place, "the neighborhood whereof We have blessed" (the very first line of Surah The Children of Israel, in Quran). So anyone who wants to enter the "blessing of Allah" shall enter the Al-Aqsa mosque. This is an open announcement for those who read Quran and understand it. The smallest verses in Holy Quran have great meanings. For example, for Holy Kaaba (the House of God), Allah says in Quran, "who so ever enters it, is safe!"(Verse 97 surah Al Imran). Now it is up to believers to understand what safety they get when they enter the House of God. Of course, they will be safe from the fire of Hell, from the evils of world and you keep counting. This was my second visit to Jerusalem and the very first thought that crept to my mind when I visited the deserted AlAqsa mosque was; this is the place where all American Muslims

Palestinians living on mountains... the same mountain where Moses was seen last

must visit and donate generously to make it a great place of worship. There were only 2-3 Palestinian women praying inside. The Dome of the Rock needs repairs. It was built in year 691 by Caliph Abd-el Malik on the holy rock upon which Prophet Abraham is believed to have

the Buraq for his journey to Heaven. Also there is a visible mark believed to be the handprint of the Archangel Gabriel who held down the rock during Prophet Muhammad's ascent. Just within short walking distance is the Church of Holy Sepulcher. According to Christian tra-

Dead Sea ...float n enjoy

him. Christians believe the Jesus was buried there. The believing Christians touch the grave and pray for healing. Muslims believe it is an empty grave, because Prophet Issa (Jesus) was ascended to Heaven. On the other side of Al-Aqsa mosque and within walking distance is the

As I visited the city of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, I wondered what the Muslim countries achieved since the boycott of Israel for last 43 years The longest wall in Jerusalem dividing Palestinian colonies

brought his son for sacrifice. At right hand side, the Turk rulers have built a small enclosure containing the footprint of Prophet Muhammad as he ascended upon

dition, Adam's bones are buried here and there is the grave of Jesus. This was the place where Prophet Jesus was crucified. The Romans have prepared a grave for

Western Wall, the remaining of Temple Mount Jews world over face to pray and believe the Holy Presence never left the Western Wall.

Jerusalem, the Holy land for world's three monotheistic religions is very easy to visit by American Muslims. U.S. Passport holders need no visa to enter it from Tel Aviv airport. Many Muslims travel to Jerusalem via Amman. But it takes only 40 minutes and USD60 from Tel Aviv airport to your hotel in Jerusalem. All the 5 star hotels were full with Christian tourist from across the world. As I visited the city of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, I wondered what the Muslim countries achieved since the boycott of Israel for last 43 years. Israel has built beautiful twin cities of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem within a short time. I saw the longest barbed wired wall, perhaps next to the China Wall, dividing the Jews and Muslims. On the other side of the wall, Palestinians live in ghettoes. Many Palestinian families live on open Mountain land in heat and desert. Contíd on page 22

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Ricky Gill announces candidacy for US Congress from 11th District India Post News Service

LODI, CA: Surrounded by friends, family, and supporters, Ricky Gill, 24, announced here his candidacy as a Republican running in what is currently California’s 11th Congressional District. Gill, a first-generation American born and raised in Lodi, made his announcement in the shadow of Lodi Memorial Hospital. The speech occurred after nearly 10 weeks in an exploratory committee process that garnered counsel from several of the region’s most respected business owners, educators, public servants, and farmers. He described his decision to seek office as an opportunity to “ensure that San Joaquin County gains a seat at the table and a voice in American politics,” and evidenced the extent of under-representation with a reminder that no current state or federal legislators call the county home. “It has been far too long since an election revolved around the livelihood of people in this community,” he emphasized. “Competing candidates parachute into this county at the eleventh hour; they ask you only for your vote, not your opinion. They offer you sound bites, not the substance you deserve.” His comments focused on economic rejuvenation by blocking restrictive regulations that drive up costs for local farmers and small businesses, spurring job creation via incentives for entrepreneurship, and encouraging start-up companies to hang a shingle in the county, as well as advocating for a vigorous partnership linking neighboring San Joaquin and Silicon Valleys. He championed the interests of farmers with a

pledge to cultivate foreign markets for their world-class products and to prevent their share of water from being used elsewhere, essentially “restoring agriculture to its full and respected place in the economy of our country.” The son of respected physicians, Gill added that “our vitality as a nation is tied not only to our ideals, but also our own health and that of our loved ones, neigh-

Gill’s remarks also touted public education as a keynote issue in his campaign, calling it “the great equalizer of any free society and a compact between this generation and the next – a promise that American children will be limited only by the extent of their ambition.” He promised to continue fighting for higher quality education and defending standards-based reforms—beliefs he launched into action as a former

‘It has been far too long since an election revolved around the livelihood of people in this community,” he emphasized. “Competing candidates parachute into this county at the eleventh hour; they ask you only for your vote, not your opinion. They offer you sound bites, not the substance you deserve’

bors, and fellow citizens.” His agenda includes a vow to protect the relationship between patient and physician by enacting tort reform as a tool to curb malpractice insurance costs. He added: “I will safeguard the rights of consumers to make their own decisions that drive down premiums while improving the quality of care.”

member of the California State Board of Education. Ricky Gill provided the following answers to questions e-mailed to him by India Post: IP: Is job growth in agriculture dependent on Federal initiatives? Ricky Gill: Job growth is primarily a function of private investment,

especially the creation and expansion of small businesses. Whether it is the siphoning of water away from rural counties or the imposition of unnecessary regulations, the federal government has at times impeded job growth in local agriculture. However, there is also a positive role for the federal government to play. Through the federally approved Farm Bill and trade agreements negotiated with other nations, Congress and the federal government can help ensure that investment in agriculture increases and that our agriculture products find markets overseas. IP: You seem to relate economic recovery to improving schools. How is that? RG: I believe that public education is the single best investment we can make to ensure that America remains a competitive force in the global economy. Unfortunately, fiscal imbalance and irresponsibility have produced steep budgets cuts in public education, which has resulted in students not receiving the high-quality education they deserve. IP: What do you have in mind for schools reform? RG: As a former member of the California State Board of Education, I represented nearly seven million public school students in this state. I witnessed the problems that result when students are shuffled through the system without achieving at acceptable levels. I believe parents have an important role to play in education reform and deserve a choice in the schools their children attend. I would like to see greater accountability at the local and school-site level. Contíd on page 22

BAPS Charities helps victims of tornadoes India Post News Service

n April 27, multiple dev astating tornadoes hit the Southeastern United States with Alabama being the hardest hit. In the Alabaman cities of Tuscaloosa and Birmingham, multiple lives were lost and

these powerful and deadly tornadoes. Based on the relief and rehabilitation experience of previous disasters, Hurricane Ike (2008), Hurricane Katrina (2005), South Asian Tsunami (2004-5) and the Gujarat, India earthquake (2001), volunteers from Birmingham,

BAPS Charities served freshly prepared hot meals from Monday, May 2 through Friday, May 6. In this time frame of five days, BAPS Charities' was able to reach out and serve over 2,500 people hundreds of families were affected. Since electrical grids were damaged and potable water was difficult to find, relief efforts were hampered. It was in this time of need that the volunteers of BAPS Charities provided help to the victims of

Atlanta and surrounding centers marshaled into action to provide food, fresh drinking water and shelter to the affected people. BAPS Charities served freshly prepared hot meals from Monday, May 2 through Friday,

May 6. In this time frame of five days, BAPS Charities' was able to reach out and serve over 2,500 people. Meals were being served at four relief centers around the City of Tuscaloosa. In recognition and appreciation of the effort, hard work, kindness, and compassion shown by the volunteers of BAPS Charities, the Mayor of

the city of Tuscaloosa, Mr. Walt Maddox, commented, "I would like to acknowledge BAPS Charities for their remarkable efforts here in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. They have given so much time and energy to the communities in need in the aftermath of the tornadoes of April 27. I cannot thank this organization enough for its support and generosity."

Most recently, BAPS Charities raised funds for the Japan Earthquake and Disaster. In 2010, BAPS Charities raised and donated $63,000 to the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in support of the Haiti Earthquake Relief Fund. BAPS Charities has engaged in natural disaster relief work in the US, parts of Africa, Europe, and South Asia.

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Mata Ki Chowki at Fremont Temple

Mata Ki Chowki was held at Fremont Temple on May 14 by Vijay Thapar and Anita Thapar for their daughters Vinita Thapar, Dr Garima Kohli and son-in- law Dr Jatinder Kohli.

(Pics by Raja, Rakesh Kapoor & Neelam Kapoor.)

Jagran was done by Vandana Paul (from Vallejo), Bhupinder Bhinda and group from Yuba City.

The Jagran was attended by 300-400 people and Preeti Bhoj was served by Fremont Temple.

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Osama Bin Laden: an icon no more IMAM SHAMSHAD A. NASIR

he death of the most hunted terrorist in modern history marks not just the death of a man, but the end of an iconic symbol of anti-Western and specifically anti-American sentiment in the hearts and minds of Jihadist Muslims. It is certainly bankable that Al-Qaida and the Taliban (in all their forms) won't be dissuaded or prevented by the death of Osama Bin Laden from committing future acts of terrorism. In fact, just the opposite will inevitably occur. We are bound to see revenge attacks frequently and soon. What has been dealt a deathblow is the extremist Muslims' fervent belief that Bin Laden was and always would be protected by God from the wrath and retribution of the "infidel" West. On May 1st in the dead of night, in Bin Laden's high-security compound in Pakistan, justice was decisively served by U.S. Navy Seals. Some say Bin Laden has been dead for years now, based on the fact that the most recent photo of him dates from 2000, while some don't believe he was killed May

publicity anyway, so he's still "dead" as far as his followers are concerned. And whichever scenario is true, in the end, Bin Laden is out of the picture. And what is equally undeniable is that these misguided extremists have lost their celebrity Poster Boy for violent Jihad and no one will ever be able to replace him. No Taliban or Al-Qaida member can ignore the fact that God did not protect Osama Bin Laden from the "infidels." He is no longer leading the faithful in a Jihad against the West to restore the lost glory and worldly empire of Islam through war and political caliphate. That dream is dead and will never be a reality anyway. Why? Because Islam forbids everything that Osama Bin Laden represents. In the Holy Quran, God says that those who are the aggressors in a war are the wrongdoers, and that those who kill the innocent or create disorder - terrorism - in the land deserve capital punishment; that the murder of one innocent person is akin to the murder of all mankind. Muslims are even commanded

These misguided extremists have lost their celebrity Poster Boy for violent Jihad and no one will ever be able to replace him. No Taliban or Al-Qaida member can ignore the fact that God did not protect Osama Bin Laden from the "infidelsâ&#x20AC;? 1st because his body was buried at sea, so there's no way to prove that it was, in fact, Bin Laden. In answer to these two "scenarios," if the first were true, then the Al-Qaida leadership would be guilty of a massive fraud to bolster recruitment and their followers' morale by not telling the faithful that Bin Laden was already dead. And since "Uncle Osama Wants You!" doesn't work very well without the Uncle, it would serve Al-Qaida to keep him alive. In answer to the question "Is Osama really dead?" there are only three plausible possibilities regarding the fate of Osama Bin Laden: 1. He died years ago and an imposter look-alike was killed May 1st in Pakistan; 2. the real Osama was killed May 1st and buried at sea to prevent his landbased grave from becoming a shrine for future Jihadists; or 3. the real Osama was captured alive on May 1st and is being secretly interrogated by the CIA for useful intelligence data, in which case he will never see the light of day or

to be the first to police their own law-breakers, and should they fear or fail to do so, as is definitely the case in Pakistan where terrorism and the protection of terrorists goes hand-in-hand unchecked, that duty will fall to others. In the Quran, God repeatedly warns Muslims to be righteous, humble, compassionate, forgiving, peaceful and tolerant; to not knowingly commit evil and immorality or else they will suffer the evil consequences of their actions. The Prophet Muhammad also warned the Muslims similarly, promising that if they forget God and reject righteousness and turn instead to Satan and choose a life of selfish pleasures and evils, they will be given the punishments of ignorance, poverty, debasement and the tyranny of evil, corrupt spiritual and worldly leaders. Is this not the sad condition of the majority of Muslims today? What then is the solution? ContĂd on page 23

Bhaktididi's orphanage girls wonderstruck by computer RAJ GADHE

ocated just outside of Rajkot, in the rural area of Western India, is an orphanage called Ratanpur Ashram. Ashram means a house that provides accommodation for destitute people. This orphanage is home to about 55 girls. Their ages range from as young as 2 up to age 17. This orphanage is managed by a woman named Bhaktididi ("didi" means older sister in Hindi). She has dedicated her life to providing care and assistance to those in social and financial crisis. Bhaktididi also runs a shelter for battered and abused women in Rajkot, which has been actively serving the community for many years. While overseeing this battered woman's shelter, Bhaktididi realized that there was a need for housing for less fortunate children, especially girls. She started with housing some of the young children in her Ashram in Rajkot. When the numbers grew fairly rapidly, she decided to open a separate Ashram for young children. She invested a lot of her own money to establish the Ashram and eventually was helped out by some generous donors in making this project, a reality. Ratanpur Ashram is made up of four buildings: a dining room/ kitchen, meeting hall, and living quarters. Outside, there is a playground with swings and a slide. There is an abundance of open space for the children to run and play games in the open country air. In each room, there are 5 rooms with about 15 beds each. The beds are lined up side by side all the way across the room, with the girls' few scant belongings stashed away underneath the beds. Girls live there and go to school in a nearby town; girls from ages six and above are transported daily to a local school by a bus. The Ashram becomes their home since they are basically homeless people! The younger girls that don't go to school spend their childhood at the orphanage doing little chores and playing around. The girls' ages ten and older help cook the meals for the rest of the orphanage once they get home from school. The girls begin to learn English in fifth grade. When we arrived at the Ashram, the girls greeted us with songs and dances (the ones they have learnt as part of their Ashram experience). The oldest

girl in the Ashram, who seemed to be the informal leader, gave a speech. They seemed very excited and thrilled to see us, the visitors from USA. All of the girls looked clean, well dressed and well-fed. The girls may be here for various reasons. While most of these girls are without parents, some are economic orphans - though they have living parents, their families do not have sufficient funds to provide them with clothing, food, and a basic education. A few of the girls may still have one living parent who has abandoned them in order to get remarried. It is much easier for the widow to get remarried if she doesn't have a child, because the husband typically doesn't want

chances of getting some education. With some education, they have some hope of landing an office job to support her in future. Almost all jobs available in the city require some computer knowledge. With many computer literate young people in India creating a huge competitive market, a girl with basic computer knowledge, gets an edge over others in securing a job in the city; which can mean living a reasonably comfortable life versus doing manual labor. In rural India, even today, the parents try to find appropriate partner for their daughter at a fairly young age; by our standards. A suitable husband for their daughters is seen as one step towards a

In rural India, a girl is limited in the opportunities afforded to her. Parents do not see the importance of an education beyond basic third grade reading and writing skills. The families would rather have the girl work in the farm as a laborer, in order to earn some money and help the family out. any interaction with the stepchild. This heart breaking social dilemma is created when the mother has to choose between her child or her husband who would provide her with food and money to support her. This forces her to take the horrible option of abandoning her child. In rural India, a girl is limited in the opportunities afforded to her. Parents do not see the importance of an education beyond basic third grade reading and writing skills. The families would rather have the girl work in the farm as a laborer, in order to earn some money and help the family out. To further their education, girls must find a way out of small villages to an urbanized and developed city where they have better

secure future. The parents of the boys on the other hand, are looking for a girl who can earn some money to support their family. A girl with a job has much better prospects of finding a better husband than if she was uneducated and did not have a job. Since the girls in this ashram may or may not have parents to help them in looking for an appropriate suitor, an educational background is all the more vital for their happy future. According to Nielsen's National TV panel, around 80.6% homes in US possess a computer and around 91.6% of these households have Internet connection. Computers are used for countless reasons. ContĂd on page 23

Community/California

22 India Post

May 27, 2011

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Pioneer Blvd workers awarded $95,000 in back pay India Post News Service

ARTESIA, CA: Employees of two Indian restaurants, Jay Bharat and Standard Sweets and Snacks, located in Artesia are set to recover almost $95,000 in back wages denied by their employer, Chandrakant Patel. Federal Department of Labor investigators determined that 22 employees at Jay Bharat Foods, Inc, and Standard Sweets LLC were denied minimum wage and overtime pay in accordance with federal and state laws. Artesia's "Little India" on Pioneer Boulevard is home to over 100 South Asian businesses, including many popular grocery stores and restaurants like Jay Bharat and Standard Sweets and Snacks. While thousands of customers come to Pioneer Boulevard to enjoy South Asian products, they are largely unaware of the over 300 South Asian, Latino and other immigrant workers who provide an invisible service to the community by stocking stores, cooking ethnic foods and creating a cultural ambiance. As in Jay Bharat's cases, these workers are often denied basic legal protections by their employers. In August 2009, South Asian Network (SAN) launched a workers' rights campaign for Pioneer Boulevard employees to be informed of their rights, take action against abuses, and help business owners comply with California labor laws as a way to build a strong Artesia business and residential community. SAN is a community-based organization located on Pioneer Boulevard dedicated to advancing the health, empowerment and solidarity of persons of South Asian descent since 1990. At Patel's two stores, employees worked 55 hours a week while being denied minimum wage and overtime hours. According to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employees working in excess of 40 hours per week should get paid an overtime rate of time-and-a-half of their regular pay rate. Minimum wage in California is currently

Ricky Gill announces candidacy for US Congress from 11th District

$8.00 an hour. Investigators also determined that Patel violated the FLSA record-keeping requirements by failing to keep accurate and thorough records of employee work hours, wages and deductions. Patel agreed to pay the entire sum owed to his employees and has committed to maintaining future compliance with federal minimum wage, overtime and record-keeping requirements. Investigators interviewed employees and reviewed payroll records at Jay Bharat Food

While thousands of customers come to Pioneer Boulevard to enjoy South Asian products, they are largely unaware of the over 300 South Asian, Latino and other immigrant workers who provide an invisible service to the community by stocking stores, cooking ethnic foods and creating a cultural ambiance Inc. to find twelve employees were owed $41,428 in minimum wage and overtime back wages, and Standard Foods L.L.C. employed ten employees who are owed $53,442 in minimum wages and overtime back wages. In Summer 2011, SAN will launch the first ever Pioneer Boulevard workers' rights report, documenting the experiences and aspirations of low-income South Asian and Latino workers in the Artesia area. SAN encourages owners to treat workers with dignity and respect and comply with laws in order to strengthen the "Little India" business community.

Contíd from page 19

IP: How do you relate to the Indian community? What can they hope from your candidature? RG: I am proud to be an Indian-American. The values of family, hard work and education, although universal, have particular resonance in our culture. They have been indispensable in my journey thus far, and will continue to be so. IP: Are you critical of Obama’s healthcare plans? RG: My family has been deeply involved in the American healthcare system for several decades. We must do more to reform this system. We can reduce healthcare premiums by fostering competition in the insurance industry, enacting medical malpractice tort reform and encouraging the creation of an easily accessible market for generic drugs. IP: On immigration, what do you have to say on the Tri Valley University scan-

dal, which led to the suffering of so many Indian students? RG: Indian immigrants have enjoyed success in the United States, playing an important role in society and adding value to our economy. I support legal immigration to the United States. I also believe that Congress needs to retool our skilled immigration policy by providing opportunities for law-abiding foreign students to remain in the US to work after earning graduate degrees in important fields like engineering and mathematics. IP: You don’t seem to see any role for India in the Afghan conflict. Does India matter in your region? RG: India is the world’s largest democracy and has a substantial role to play in Afghanistan and around the globe. India should leverage its democratic experience to aid the Afghan transition to democracy. Instability in the region is a national security issue for both the United States and India, and we should work together to build the foundations for a stable Afghanistan.

Muslim tourists need to visit Jerusalem Contíd from page 18

On my way to Dead Sea, I saw a road sign that read, "the Mountain where Prophet Moses was seen last", in the same mountain desert, I saw a Palestinian family living in a makeshift tent under the hot sun. If Muslim world makes truce with Israel and develops Muslim tourism, Jerusalem will be the next most visited place in the world after Makkah and Medinah. The untapped Muslim tourism industry will yield to share the prosperity by Palestinians. Muslims world over yearn to visit Jerusalem. However, a security concern deters Muslims all over the world from visiting Jerusalem. At the same time thousands of Christians from all over the world visit Jerusalem. The 5-star hotel where I stayed

was full of Christian tourists from European countries. And ours was the only Muslim family in the entire hotel. Busloads of tourists left the hotel in early morning. The receptionist informed me the tourists keep pouring in throughout

benefit the local Palestinians. The Israel boycott has not benefited Muslim world in the least. It has only kept away the Muslims from Muslim countries visiting the Holy land. The hotel I stayed was a Jewish management and I en-

If Muslim world makes truce with Israel and develops Muslim tourism, Jerusalem will be the next most visited place in the world after Makkah and Medinah the year. If there occurs a truce between Israel and Muslim world, the Muslim tourists will flock to the Holy land perhaps more than the Christian tourists. The Muslim countries can invest in tourism projects in Jerusalem that will ultimately

joyed my stay and the kosher food in the hotel. When I entered the Western wall security managed by Israeli soldiers, they respectfully inspected my family and allowed us to visit the Western Wall. A Palestinian from a distance yelled at us why we Muslims are visiting

Empty grave of Jesus

the Jewish place of worship? American Muslims can travel via Tel Aviv. Israeli immigration officer only asked us if we have hotel booking for our stay. Turkish airlines offer most convenient

connections to U.S. Muslims from Chicago, New York or Washington to visit Israel and proceed to Saudi Arab for Umrah. For comments, please email sidakl@yahoo.com

May 27, 2011

Community/California

India Post 23

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Bhaktididi's orphanage girls wonderstruck by computer ContĂd from page 21

Americans rely on the computer for many things including the news, connecting with people all over the world via Facebook, homework help, research, entertainment (YouTube), email, banking, as well as Microsoft Office: Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. In small villages in India, people do not own computers for many reasons - the high cost of owning a computer, lack of continuous electricity supply and the lack of basic computer knowledge. This keeps them from getting in touch with the rest of the world and the enormous power and limitless capabilities of computer technology, to better their lives! I wanted to expose these young minds to the power of technology by donating a computer to the ashram. If these girls had basic computer skills and could use them in their lives, they would have a clear advantage over those that don't know much about computers. As we had anticipated, most of the girls were unfamiliar with the uses of a computer. I thought it would be beneficial to teach some of the older girls, the basic fundamentals about computers like Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Two of the oldest girls, Naina and Jigisha, eighth and ninth graders respectively, knew how to turn on the computer as well as how to use and retrieve saved documents in Notepad and Paint. To the rest of the girls, it was simply a fascinating and mysterious machine but did not know its functions or capabilities. They were looking at it like an alien object to be feared rather than revered. All the girls were engrossed as I

showed them various programs and their features. I showed them how to open and save documents on Word. None of them were familiar with PowerPoint, so I demonstrated how to create a presentation and explained its purpose. I also created an Excel spreadsheet to display the different types of graphs and charts. I could see that they felt connection on this topic,

To the rest of the girls, it was simply a fascinating and mysterious machine but did not know its functions or capabilities. They were looking at it like an alien object to be feared rather than revered. All the girls were engrossed as I showed them various programs and their features. I showed them how to open and save documents on Word since it was being done by me, a student of their age, rather than an adult! It was fun showing them some of the games on the computer along with its other capabilities! During this entire process, the girls were all fascinated by the fact that I could type so fast without looking at the keyboard. This amused me because I do not ac-

tually think that I type that quickly. Almost all of the girls knew very little English, which makes it difficult for them to type. While the girls were completely engrossed in this little lesson, most of them seemed overwhelmed and intimidated by the computer because it is so foreign to them and they were afraid that they might break it by pressing wrong key. This is when I realized that the girls would need basic English knowledge to feel comfortable with the use of computer. We asked the older girls to teach the younger girls the English alphabets and small words. They liked the "paint" feature where they did not need English knowledge to use colors to paint beautiful pictures! About two weeks after our initial visit and introduction of computer to these girls, I returned for a short visit. I was pleasantly surprised to find that some of the girls had created a painting on "Paint" along with a couple of sentences about themselves on "Word". This enthusiasm was so encouraging, that I began to think of our short term goal of keeping them engaged and unafraid of using the computer on their own. Since this is a short term goal, I was thinking of hiring a teacher that would be able to teach the girls more computer skills. We had asked all of the girls what career path they wanted to pursue in the future. Many chose some fields related to computers in some way or another. I was really encouraged by their eagerness to better their future and felt an inner desire to help them in whatever way I could help them.

ICF creating awareness for India-Japan summit ContĂd from page 16

The Chicago visit of Upadhyay is part of his tour across North America as he appreciates that Indians in this part of the world have been actively contributing to various societies and have notched a number of accomplishments. Upadhyay is also seeking to interact with fellow Indians and American friends who have contributed to the economy of North America and other parts of the world, to discuss their participation, their possible contribution and inviting them to become a part

of this new framework. The summit is a platform through which many socio-economic models will be initiated, keeping in mind the environment, energy efficiency and sustainability. The India Center Foundation was born in 1996 with the vision to play the role of a catalyst in the development of India. The foundation has actively developed its mission by participating in creating platforms like the India Japan Global partnership, played a leading role in architecting the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) and various other new economic models

in healthcare and agriculture. In his address here, Sam Pitroda talked about his experience on India Japan relations and future prospects as to how India and Japan bureaucrats gradually have realized the importance of cooperation and are supporting Summit and bilateral relations between the two countries. Sam Pitroda is the chairman of the summit taking place in Japan in September where over 4000 business leaders will be coming together. Upadhyay and others are traveling world for global Indian initiative awareness over this event they, said Diganvker.

My short term goal was to have the older girls teach basic English to younger girls. The long term plan was to train the older girls at a local computer schools in Rajkot and also employ a computer teacher. The older girls would in turn teach and train the younger girls to use the different Microsoft and Internet programs. Continuous, reliable broadband

webcam from USA. My goal is to get a few high school students from USA to do video chat using technologies like "Skype", on weekly basis to connect and educate the kids in this Ashram for future. We will then be able to converse with the administrator to check up on the girls' ongoing activities. Email will also enable us to send links that will direct them to educational websites, which can help develop their English vocabulary. We will assign little projects that make them use Microsoft Office. This is all dependent on when internet comes to Ratanpur. In the meantime, we intend to send Jigisha and Naina to a nearby computer learning center and if financially possible, hire a computer teacher. My hope for the girls at Ashram is twofold: that once they learn computer skills it will benefit them in their career, and they can pass their knowledge on to the younger girls. My goal for kids in USA is to involve more interested peers and friends to help these less fortunate children in rural India. This is a work in progress that is going to require time and money. I need time commitment from my peers to educate these children in India. I also need help to raise money for the tuition of these computer classes and future projects. Anyone interested in helping this noble cause can reach me at ratanpurashram@yahoo.com.

Osama Bin Laden: an icon no more ContĂd from page 21

The solution lies in the adoption of an Islam that is enlightened, peaceful, tolerant, non-violent, rational and committed to love of God and humanity, education, human rights, justice and the freedom of religious expression for all, whether they are Muslim or not. The Quran clearly states there shall be no compulsion to accept the faith of Islam, nor shall there be any worldly punishment for leaving it. The Islam that proclaims and strives to live by these truths does exist in the world today, and has existed for over 120 years. That Islam is the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, established in 1889 with 40 members, now has tens of millions of "Muslims for Peace" in nearly 200 countries who believe in the Messiah, Mirza Ghulam

Ahmad of Qadian. Their motto is "Love for All - Hatred for None." This is the Islam that will defeat the "Islam" of Al-Qaida and the Taliban. Ahmadiyya Islam is the

The Islam that proclaims and strives to live by these truths does exist in the world today, and has existed for over 120 years only Islam that can rescue the religion from its Jihadist abductors. The writer is Ahmadiyya Muslim Community SW regional missionary, USA.

TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Mit Jaaye Ghum: Dum Maaro Dum 2 Teri Justaju (Saaware): Shor In The City 3 Awaaz: F.A.L.T.U Shor In The City

India Post

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May 27, 2011

aif Ali Khan found his role of a Dalit in "Aarakshan" most challenging because it didn't come naturally to him and admits that the film has changed his perspective about reservation policies and he now feels they should exist. "When I got this movie, I was completely against reservations. I felt that things should be done on merit. That was my first thought, but after having done the movie, I realized that there is another side to it, which is that most people in our country are very underprivileged and they have no chance in life," Saif said. Set for an August 12 release, director Prakash Jha's "Aarakshan" is a high voltage drama centering on caste-based reservations in government jobs and educational institutions. The film also stars Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Manoj Bajpayee and Prateik Babbar. Saif played a rustic guy in "Omkara" and a terrorist in "Kurbaan", but found his role of a Dalit in "Aarakshan" the most challenging. "It was very challenging to get into the character for this film because this is a role where more than acting, it's about looking and feeling the part from inside and having a certain expression in your eyes," said the 40-year-old.

riyanka Chopra is ready for marriage. Despite many speculations about her link up with actor Shahid Kapoor, she still maintains that she is single. The 28-year-old says, "I am ready to get married tomorrow, provided I find a nice guy!"

Priyanka rubbishes all rumors about her not doing a stage show just because she had to share space with Shahid Kapoor. "I get many offers for stage shows, and my doing it or not doing it depends on my dates. Not wanting to work with Shahid will be a stupid reason."

Priyanka is popular on the social networking site Twitter. "The fact that I have more than a million followers on Twitter makes me feel loved," she says, "I have always been the queenâ&#x20AC;Ś no, the princess of Bollywood."

The actor will next be seen in films such as Don 2, Agneepath, Barfee and Kunal Kohli's untitled film. "The shooting for Barfee, in which I play a mentally-challenged girl, has just begun. It's my toughest role so far."

4 Saibo: Shor In The City 5 Jiyein Kyun: Dum Maaro Dum 6 Bhojhal Se: I AM 7 Sau Baras: Haunted 8 Maine Yeh Kab Socha Tha: Game 9 Tum Bin Yeh Dil Ghabraye: Zokkomon 10 Wundoo Yeredoo: I AM

Bollywood

May 27, 2011

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Proving a point E

very newbie in Bollywood has to be in the news due to relationship rumors. Something similar happened to Zarine Khan too. Debuting opposite Salman Khan in Veer, linked her up to the actor. But she has no qualms admitting that when she is in trouble, she falls back on him. "I don't know about camp, but, yes, I believe in being loyal to the person (Salman) who brought me to the industry. He doesn't have any block in his head. In professional life, I am free to do whatever I like. I do not have a Bollywood background and do not know a lot of people here; so wherever I am in a fix, I fall back on him (Salman)," Zarine said in an interview. "I was a struggling model and was looking for some kind of work to take care of my family. I was doing small print ads now and then for saris. One day I got a call from Mukta Arts. They called me on the sets of Yuvvraaj. There I met Salman. When I asked for his autograph, he said, 'No sweetheart you will sign autograph for the world'. Later I got to know that he has selected me for the film," she added. Zarine has been roped in for Housefull 2 and says it will help her in breaking her image. "I really wanted to do this film because I wanted to break the perception of people who thought that because I am from the UK, I can't speak Hindi and I am not fit for a particular look. I wanted to break the image I had during Veer. I think Housefull 2 will help me in proving my point," she said. But the positive response to her item song Character Dhila with Salman in Ready has raised her hopes.

Starry

TANTRUMS

nushka Sharma is one actress who is currently "in huge demand". Now that the actress is quite aware about her star status, we hear that she too has become a tantrum queen. It has been reported that Anushka's behavior on the sets of Ladies Vs Ricky Bahl is that of some big star. In the flick she is paired opposite Ranveer Singh. Well, if buzz is to be believed, Anushka asks her assistant, who is of her height, to stand in place of her while cinematographer is setting up the light. Generally, actresses have to face the harsh light in order to look beautiful in front of camera for the film. And as a lot depends on the light and how it's falling on the face, actresses go through the testing before the shooting starts. Even beauties like Katrina Kaif and Kareena Kapoor can't shy from it. But Anushka, says the insider, sends one of her assistants to stand in light. Her co-stars are making fun of her ignorant ways. Or may be the girl is being extra-protective about her skin!

Exp ectin g?

hilpa Shetty tied the knot with Raj Kundra, a London based businessman, in 2009. She and her hubby have lately been busy cheering for their IPL team Rajasthan Royals. The latest buzz that we hear is that Shilpa is pregnant. Off late, the sexy actress has been noticed going up and down, visiting several clinics. If the buzz is true, then it seems both Shilpa and Raj have planned to keep this good piece of news a secret, until Shilpa is a few months into her pregnancy. However, their close friends and family members have been exposed to the news. Raj already has a daughter from his first marriage. However, this is Shilpa's first baby. Going back to their datings days, Shilpa had a big wish to have two babies with Raj. Well, we only hope the buzz is true.

India Post

SRIREKHA CHAKRAVARTY India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Child Right and You America (CRY America) raised over $215,000 at two benefit dinners it hosted in New York and Seattle recently, for the cause of underprivileged children in India. 'Pledge 2011' was held on May 13 at the Taj, The Pierre Hotel in New York and 'Uphaar 2011' on May 14 at the Four Seasons Hotel in Seattle.

Soha Ali Khan, popular Indian actor, also present at the dinners shared, ‘I strongly believe that all girl children should be given the opportunity to quality education and encouraged to have a career of their choice, just like I did’ Legendary actress Sharmila Tagore and her daughter, Soha Ali Khan - also a well known actress - were the special guests at both events. The NY event was attended by 150 people from New York-New Jersey and Uphaar 2011 was attended by 175 members from the western Washington community, who came together to partner CRY America's work to benefit underprivileged children. Over $215,000 was raised across both Dinner events, resources that will be directed towards funding several projects that ensure lasting change in the lives of children. The evenings included talks by Puja Marwaha, CEO of CRY India, Shefali Sunderlal, President of CRY America and keynote addresses by Sharmila Tagore and Soha Ali Khan. Paintings by famous artists Ram Kumar, Murali Nagapuzha, Nitin Dadrawala and private lunches with Sharmila and Soha sponsored by Vermillion restaurant were auctioned by Sotheby's at the New York Dinner which raised $43,000. Soha Ali Khan, popular Indian actor, also present at the dinners shared, "I strongly believe that all girl children should be given the opportunity to quality education and encouraged to have a career of their choice, just like I did." "Poverty, hunger, child labor and lack of education among the youth continue to be prevalent in India. As a leader in the South Asian Entertainment space, Zee has the responsibility to help raise awareness about these issues among the South Asian Diaspora through offering support to CRY America and helping their events gain visibility," said Suresh Bala, CEO Asia TV USA Ltd.

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May 27, 2011

Legendary Bollywood actress Sharmila Tagore at a CRY America Press Conference in New York on May 14. Shafali Sunderlal, President CRY America, is also seen -Pic Mohammed Jaffer-SnapsIndia

NY press conference Hours before the NY fundraiser, Sharmila Tagore joined CRY America at a press conference to appeal for support to the cause of underprivileged children in India. Tagore, who has been involved with CRY for over 20 years, said she obviously believed in the cause or she wouldn't be here, coming all the way from Delhi to New York. Tagore pointed out that in 1991, India became a signatory to UNICEF's 1989 Convention of Child Rights, but "it

largely remains only on paper." "India is a paradox where 300 million of its population is extremely well to do while 700 million live in poverty. There is an entire "invisible India", she said, but it is not necessarily in some remote villages, but also in slums right in the middle of big cities. Tagore further said that in a country like India the more you do, the more needs to be done. "Still, we are better off today than we were yesterday," she commented. Specifically talking about the rights of the girl child in India, Tagore said that girls first need to escape death by sex selection right in the womb; and if they survive that, then they have to survive illhealth, discrimination and exploitation. She also talked of underage marriages of girls, maternal deaths due to underage pregnancies, and the vicious cycle of unhealthy children born of unhealthy underage mothers, which in turn leads to a weaker society as a whole. Elucidating the difference between CRY and other organizations, Tagore said, "The basic difference is that they involve the parents and entire community towards impacting the child. Children are organically linked to their parents and the

society around them. So, if a child is forced into labor because the family does not have a regular source of income, CRY and its projects address that issue first. CRY's approach of ensuring child rights is a holistic concept, which ensures change that lasts for generations to come." Shefali Sunderlal, President of CRY America said Indians living abroad were increasingly concerned with development in India; their voices are heard by policy makers and they have the resources to enable bigger changes. "Our hope is that this community will join CRY America's efforts to ensure the rights of underprivileged children and help make this issue of national and international priority," she said. Citing statistics, Sunderlal said 40% of the world's children (334 million) are in India, of which 53% are malnourished; and over 12 million children are engaged in child labor. 75% of girls are underage when they get married. Thousands do not go to school because there is none accessible where they live. "The story of 'hope and growth' in today's India does not reflect the country's children," Sunderlal said. "As a country we are failing our children." Cont’d on page 27

May 27, 2011

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Krishan vs. Kanhaiya another phenomenal success Kanhaiya." Last summer the Hindi play "Krishan Vs Kanhaiya" performed 51 times in 53 days throughout USA and Canada and this

‘It was an amazing performance. We laughed and laughed our guts out. Acting, direction and stage management was superb’

KAVITA ARORA India Post News Service

HAYWARD, CA: SB Entertainment brought back to the Bay Area by popular demand Paresh Rawal's play, "Krishan vs.

year it is touring 41 shows in 45 cities. A more spiced up version entertained audiences on April 24 at the Chabot College Performing Arts Auditorium in Hayward in California. SB Entertainment presented one of Bollywood's best actors and top comedians, Paresh Rawal in the play directed by Umesh Shukla. This Hindi play is based on

Akshay lends voice for 'Khatron ke' title track India Post News Service

kshay Kumar has once again turned singer for the latest series of India's deadliest adventure show Khatron Ke Khiladi Torchar, expected to go on air in June. Through his sturdy voice, Akshay is all set to be the harbinger of the Khatron Ke Khiladi Torchar. Akshay Kumar has lent his voice earlier to Shabad Nirgun Raakh Liya, Khatta Meetha, Chandni Chowk to China with Canadian rap artist Bohemia and the title track for the blockbuster film Singh Is Kinng with Snoop Dogg. Khatron Ke Khiladi Torchar is the pulse riveting Indian version of the internationally hit show Fear Factor shown on Colors TV. The show involves a true test of grit and stamina, along with a spurt of ultimate adrenaline rush to overcome the various deadly tasks set out for the contestants. Akshay Kumar will be seen making 13 gorgeous Indian beauties dance to his tunes and push them outside their comfort zone

witnessing their greatest fears becoming a reality, in the fourth series of action packed Khatron Ke Khiladi Torchar, being shot in South Africa. Akshay Kumar lives up to his reputation as a 'Khiladi Kumar' demonstrating his nonchalant attitude by fearlessly sunbathing with a deadly scorpion during the shooting for Khatron Ke Khiladi Torchar. This year's celebrity participants include former Indian women's cricket captain Anjum Chopra, models Diandra Soares, Alesia Raut and Poonam Pandey, actress Aarti Chabria, Smita Bansal and Aashka Goradia, item girls Sambhavana Seth and Kashmera Shah, two VJs- Bani & Mia Uyeda, singer Mauli Dave and Dina Singh who is actor Vindu Dara Singh's wife. Also for this season, each female celebrity participant will be teamed up with male partners. Apart from winning a host of prizes, the winner will win the exclusive opportunity to feature with the Thums Up brand ambassador and the most popular youth icon Akshay Kumar in Thums Up new commercial campaign.

Cry for girl child Cont’d from page 26

Also addressing the media was Puja Marwaha, CEO, CRY India. "Millions of children across India are excluded from education, healthcare, protection from exploitation and abuse," she said. Specific to the girl child, she added, "The first requirement is the girl child's right to life, then the right to survive, right to health, nutrition, education and identity." These children also need protection from being trafficked, exploited in enforced labor, she said. Elaborating on the CRY working model, Sunderlal said the CRY model includes working with civil society, government and the media which brings about social change. Since its founding 8 years ago, CRY

America has launched 52 projects that have impacted the lives of 358,000 children in 1916 villages and slums in India. 276 child marriages have been stopped and 372 villages have been made child labor free. 334 public healthcare centers, the only available medical help in some of India's remotest areas have been activated through sustained campaigns with local governments, and 886 government schools have also been activated. CRY America has annual revenue of about $1 million to $1.3 million, a major portion of which comes from its 15,000 individual donors. CRY America raises funds through annual dinners, walks and cricket matches. It has 500 volunteers working in 25 action centers across the US.

the super-hit Gujarati comedy "Kanji Virrudh Kanji." "It was an amazing performance. We laughed and laughed our guts out. Acting, direction and stage management was superb. The message was well conveyed without hitting below the belt. We all got value for our money spent," said Ravi Chopra. Paresh Rawal has been in Bollywood big screen and stage since 1980s with hundreds of hit movies and scores of awards under his belt. Some of his well known movies are Hera Pheri, Phir Hera Pheri, Golmaal, Chup Chup Ke, Bhool Bhulaiya, Paa, 36 China Town, Atithi Tum Kab Jaoge among others. "Paresh Rawal was absolutely phenomenal. He proved once again that he is a true

professional and a superb actor. He was personally feeling the effect of a hectic tour schedule of 41 performances in 45 nights with a hoarse throat but he didn't let his audience suffer a bit. A social-reform idea with an unusually tight script (for Indian theatre) was executed brilliantly by the entire cast led by Paresh Rawal. It was a true thought-provoking comedy - a rare breed," noted Rajiv Nema. "It was an absolutely great Paresh Rawal show again. It was nice to see a full house, a superb performance, and a great audience. Thanks everyone for your support," said promoter, Subhankar Bhattacharya. Kavita Arora is Anchor and CoProducer of Sitaarre TV

Horoscope

India Post

May 27, 2011

www.indiapost.com

Your Weekly Future by Pandit Parashar

MAY 27TH - JUNE 02ND ARIES (MARCH 21 TO APRIL 20)

TAURUS (APRIL 21 TO MAY 20)

here is a strong chance of some kind of Jackpot. In vestment made in the past will get you tons of money and have no fear about new partners in business, they will play on your tune later on. People earlier suffering from ailments will cured with help of new medications. There will be some dramatic positive change in career.

t will be a hectic week, Limited time and so many important places to visit. You will buy some expensive but useful item for the house. Things will be more relaxed at work and even of of your colleague will offer his help. Transiting Sun in second can get you some money through stocks also. Do not hesitate to try your hands at lottery.

GEMINI (MAY 21 TO JUNE 20)

CANCER (JUNE 21 TO JULY 22)

ou may be sending some money overseas for a very good reason. Drive within speed limits when on freeway and traveling long distance. Some one who was too close long ago will once again try to flirt with you. Legal matters will start moving in the right direction and a comfortable settlement is almost within your reach in a few days.

oney may pour in from totally unexpected places. Old payments will finally show up and the business should also pick up suddenly. You will be making frequent phone calls to a sibling and exchange few good news. Your past actions will pay off now and you will be admired by everyone at the party. Let the past go and think positive only.

LEO (JULY 23 TO AUGUST 22)

roperty deal will also close this week. Just watch out for a shady character trying to flirt and come too close. People in business will be cheerful to see their sales almost double up in short period. You are very close to getting some money out of a pending litigation. You may travel to a real nice and warm area with family.

VIRGO (AUGUST 23 TO SEPTEMBER 22)

here will be lots of activities in career. You may finally receive more than one contract in your hands. Seems like a female will be instrumental on the other side for these. It will be better to ignore the immature comment from a sibling. You will be going on a short trip with children to attend a social event this week.

LIBRA (SEPTEMBER 23 TO OCTOBER 22)

SCORPIO (OCTOBER 23 TO NOVEMBER 22)

hances of making money through stocks are very strong. You will become very ambitious and try your hands in different directions and will get some results too. Some of you may join a short term course to improve your changes in this challenging world. Children will keep you involved and plan more than one trip.

here will be lots of excitement about an upcoming trip. People in business will see a sudden surge in sales with new first time clients. An old appeal will get accepted and you will receive the confirmation letter. Your car will need minor repairs. Boss will be happy with your performance and make necessary recommendations.

SAGITTARIUS (NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 22)

CAPRICORN (DECEMBER 22 TO JANUARY 19)

ou will put some assets in market to reduce ongoing financial pressure. Mind will be inclined towards spiritually and it will help restore peace in mind. You will be invited to couple of upcoming social events. There are strong chances of money through legal procedure. You will call someone for direction and advice.

ealth issues will come under controls with right procedure and medication. You may win some money in lottery too. Spouse will get emotional quick so have patience with her. You will be working on several brilliant ideas and one of them will click soon.Business meetings will go well but results will come next week.

AQUARIUS (JANUARY 20 TO FEBRUARY 18)

PISCES (FEBRUARY 19 TO MARCH 20)

ome of you will get a lucky break in career. Position you always wanted will be offered with better benefits. You may spend an evening with people from political background. Kids will be excited about an upcoming long distance trip. Money wise you will continue to do well and meet all commitments on time.

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

dea of legal action to prove your point will cross your mind. Strategy will silence people who have been taking undue advantage of your generosity. You may be assigned a lighter project by the boss. You will visit an old friend with family this week. There are strong chance of a second source of income opening this week.

925-833-7170 website: www.parashar.com

29 India Post

he small town of Chamba is located in a picturesque valley, amidst the Shivalik ranges and is famous for its medieval temples. The architecture of the temples of Chamba reflects the glory of its erstwhile rulers. It is also known for its local festivals. Chamba is located in the northwestern part of the state of Himachal Pradesh in the northern region of India. The town lies on River Ravi, in a valley between two mountain ridges. Chamba is 56 km from Dalhousie via Khajjiar. The weather in Chamba is alpine. Summers (April-June) are mild and winters are cold (November-February). It experiences southwestern monsoon rains in July-September. Best time to visit: The best time to visit Chamba is between March and June History: The local Rajput rulers ruled Chamba valley in the 6th century AD and made it their capital city. Raja Sahil Verman founded the town in 10th century and named it after his daughter Champavati. It was a part of the Mughal Empire in the medieval period and

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later became the part of various Sikh kingdoms. It was finally taken over by the British and became a part of the state of Himachal Pradesh, when India became independent in 1947. Tourist attractions The Laxmi Narayan Temple is the main tourist attraction of the town. The architecture of the six temples in this complex is an example of the Hindu shikhara style of architecture. However, the local flavor is distinct and makes the carvings on these temples unique. Three temples are dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and another three to Lord Shiva. The temple was built in the 10th century AD and was renovated in the 16th century. This Laxmi Narayan Temple complex also some fine sculptures of residing deities, which include figures of Lord Vishnu (of the Hindu trilogy), Goddess Laxmi (Goddess of wealth), Narasimha (Lion form of Lord Vishnu) and Lord Krishna. Chowgan, the grassy promenade at the heart of the town, is the focus for local festivals. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 30

May 27, 2011

Chamba is located in the northwestern part of the state of Himachal Pradesh in the northern region of India. The town lies on River Ravi, in a valley between two mountain ridges

Travel & Hospitality Post

India Post

May 27, 2011

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Travel industry looks to China, India boom LAS VEGAS: China, India and Brazil are poised to fuel an explosion in international tourism in the coming years, showering money and jobs on countries ready for it, and trouble for those that aren't, industry leaders say. With an estimated two billion new middle class consumers expected to come into the markets from those emerging powerhouses over the next two decades, the travel industry sees a potential gold rush ahead. "The growth of China outbound travel is moving at a huge pace -- it is about 20 per cent increase every year. And the number of outbound Chinese travelers hit 58 million last year," said David Scowsill, CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council, an industry promotion group. "And if you look ahead, (with about) 1.6 billion coming out of China and India, they are a huge amount of people coming in with money to burn," he told reporters.

The impact of that coming wave is a top topic at a three-day global travel and tourism summit that opened, drawing CEOs from many of the world's largest travel companies and top tourism officials. The US sent Homeland Security Secre-

Barriers to travel, technological innovation and change, body blows to tourism in quake-struck Japan and the turbulent Middle East also are on the agenda here. But organisers say they want to get government officials and industry leaders think-

Roger Dow, of the US Travel Association, calls the conflict between the projected surge in demand and lagging infrastructure "a real chicken and egg." "As we build this travel, which will happen, we'll also have to take a real hard look at our infrastructure, our next generation systems for airports, and adding airport capacity," he said tary Janet Napolitano, Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and Valerie Jarret, a top advisor to President Barack Obama. Mexico's President Fernando Calderon is the guest of honour.

ing about what the arrival of the Chinese, Brazilians, Indians and others from newly affluent countries will mean for their national economies and the international travel business.

"We'll ask the attendees whether they are ready to absorb that level of growth," said Scowsill. "Are governments ready with infrastructure build? Are private investors ready to put the investment in, and generally speaking are we ready to absorb that level of growth?" Roger Dow, of the US Travel Association, calls the conflict between the projected surge in demand and lagging infrastructure "a real chicken and egg." "As we build this travel, which will happen, we'll also have to take a real hard look at our infrastructure, our next generation systems for airports, and adding airport capacity," he said. Countries that haven't caught up in time are likely to be cursed with fun-killing bottlenecks and overcrowding as millions of new tourists pour through the global travel system.-AFP

Chamba: Picturesque valley between two mountains Cont’d from page 29

To the northeast of the Laxmi Narayan temple lies the small Surara temples. Nearby is the Brajreshwari Devi temple, dedicated to Goddess Durga. This temple is constructed in the of traditional shikhara style and is known for intricate carvings on its surface. The Chamunda Devi Temple is located on a hill overlooking the town of Chamba and one has to climb for about 30 minutes to reach it. This temple is dedicated to Chamunda, the wrathful form of Goddess Durga. The entire wooden ceiling of this temple is embellished with intricate carvings depicting floral motifs and different deities. This temple has a number of brass bells, offered by the devotees, and footprints of the Goddess on a small pillar. The Sui Mata Temple is located between the Chamunda Devi temple and Brajreshwari Devi temple, and is dedicated to Sui Mata (a local princess, who gave her life for the people in Chamba). Colorful paintings within the temple depict the life of Sui. The 11th-century Harirai Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu is also made in the Shikhara style and has a tripleheaded statue of Lord Vishnu made from eight different materials. Other temples to visit in Chamba are the Radha Krishna Temple, the Sitaram Temple and the Champavati Temple. The Rangmahal or the Old Palace is another important place to

visit and houses the Himachal Emporium, from where the travelers can buy handicraft items. The Bhuri Singh Museum has a good

are also worth visiting. Places around: The picturesque Chamba valley is the home of a number of important places

the pine trees with a pond in the middle. Sixty-five kilometers southeast of Chamba is Bharmaur and is famous for its trekking trails

like Dalhousie, Khajjiar and Bharmaur. Dalhousie is 43 km from Chamba and is an important station. Khajjiar is 24 km from Chamba and is a grassy meadow, amongst

and temples. Fairs & festivals Chamba is known for its festivals. The Sui Mata festival is held for four days in March/April ev-

Khajjiar is 24 km from Chamba and is a grassy meadow, amongst the pine trees with a pond in the middle. Sixty-five kilometers southeast of Chamba is Bharmaur and is famous for its trekking trails and temples

collection of artifacts belonging to this region. Of particular importance is the collection of traditional miniature paintings. St Andrew's Church and Gandhi Gate

ery year in memory of princess Sui, who gave her life to protect the people of Chamba. Women in Chamba revere her and her image is carried from the Old Palace (Rangmahal) to her small shrine accompanied by singing and dancing. The Minjar festival is celebrated in late July/early August every year. The origin of this festival goes back to the 10th century AD. This festival marks the harvesting of the annual maize crop. It culminates with a procession to River Ravi and throwing of the silk tassels or Minjars (representing sheaves of maize), worn by men and women into the river. How to reach Road - There is neither an airport nor a railway station in Chamba. The bus station in Chamba is located near the Chowgan. The bus service from Chamba to Bharmaur (3½ hours), Dharamshala (10 hours), Khajjiar (1½ hours), Dalhousie (3 hours), and to Pathankot (6 hours) is very good.

May 27, 2011

Travel & Hospitality Post

India Post 31

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JK plans issuing NOCs to hotels in Valley SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir government will consider issuing no objection certificate to hotels in the civil lines area of the Valley for four years if the Housing and Urban Development Department assures it to connect all the building for this purpose with sewerage treatment plant. "The government would consider issuance of no objection certificate (NOC) for four years by the Pollution Control Board (PCB) for renewal of registration of hotels, with an assurance by the Housing and Urban Development Department for connecting hotels of civil lines area with sewerage treatment plant," an official spokesman said after a joint meeting of Environ-

ment and Tourism Ministries here. The meeting was jointly chaired by Minister for Forest and Environment Mian Altaf Ahmad and Minister for Tourism and Culture Nawang Rigzin Jora. Senior officials of the two ministries, besides officials of the PCB, attended the meeting. The spokesman said hotels having six to 19 rooms do not require NOC from PCB for their registration. "However, in order to ease the registration process of the hotels having accommodation of more than 19 rooms, it was decided that the hotel owners would upgrade the existing septic tank facilities of their hotels for ensuring requisite

formalities for registration," he said. The spokesman said the meeting also discussed problems of houseboat owners which included setting up of timber depots in the vicinity of Dockyard at Dalgate. Altaf assured that setting up of timber sale depot in the area would be examined on priority and necessary orders issued at the earliest. Jora asserted that promotion of hotel industry for facilitating tourists in the state is the priority of the government, saying focused attention is being given to mitigate their problems. He called upon the hoteliers to ensure better hospitality to the tourists on genuine rates. -PTI

India may open tourism office in Uzbekistan NEW DELHI: To promote Indian tourist destinations in Uzbekistan, the Tourism Ministry is planning to open an office in that country and hold road shows. "Road shows and visit by the delegation of Indian tour operators to Uzbekistan will be explored," Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahai said here. Sahai also gave an assurance that his Ministry will explore the possibility of opening a tourism office in Uzbekistan. An action plan on tourism cooperation between India and Uzbekistan was signed in the presence of the First Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Rustom Azimov and Sahai. The action plan was signed by Lalit Panwar, CMD, Indian Tourism Development Cooperation and Rustam Mirzaev, Chairman of Uzbek Tourism. Welcoming the visiting dignitary, Sahai said that India and Uzbekistan have age-old ties and even in the past people used to visit each other's country. "There is huge potential for developing cooperation in the tourism sector," he said. Sahai also stressed the need for

cooperation in developing tourism infrastructure in both the countries. The Institutes of Hotel Management and Food Craft Institute under the can be utilised by Uzbekistan for human resource development of their tourism requirements. Inviting Sahai to visit

The action plan envisages Exchange of tourists/media who would highlight the tourism potential of each other’s country Uzbekistan, Azimov said that his country looks forward for more cooperation with India in tourism sector. He said India is a very popular country amongst Uzbeks and they look towards India as a growing global power. Seeking more flight connections between India and

Uzbekistan, Azimov said tourist locations such as Tashkent, Samarkand and Bukhara are some of the well known destinations in his country which can be of attraction and interest to Indian tourists. According to the Tourism Ministry data, around 2562, 2756 and 3642 tourists arrived in India from Uzbekistan during 2007, 2008 and 2009 respectively. The action plan envisages Exchange of tourists/media who would highlight the tourism potential of each other’s country, setting up of joint ventures in an effort to promote the business of tourism and travel and establishing of representative offices in each other's country for easy and convenient accessibility of information and updates. It also includes construction and/or utilization of each other tourist facilities, creation of tourism infrastructure to promote tourist friendly destinations, education and re-training of personnel, production of goods, souvenirs, equipment and stock for promotion of tourism wherever the viability exists and organization of advertising and other promotional activity. -PTI

JK open to global trade, tourism: Omar SRINAGAR: Expressing hope that buyers from national and international market would outnumber the sellers at the trade fair in Kashmir, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has said Jammu and Kashmir is open to business for trade, tourism and handicrafts. "I am looking for the day when buyers from national and interna-

tional market outnumber the sellers in such meets," Abdullah said while inaugurating the third International Buyer-Seller meet here. The three-day event has been organised by Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI) in collaboration with Jammu Kashmir Bank. Appreciating the artisans, the

Chief Minister said their work "mesmerises the lovers of handicrafts all across the world". "The artisans here possess a kind of magic in their hands and create handicrafts of surprising art," he said. The chief Minister assured all possible help to the handicraft industry for its growth and development. -PTI

India showcases medtourism at Dubai show DUBAI: India Tourism Dubai is showcasing its multitude of attractions within India highlighting the country's Medical Tourism potential at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2011 held here recently. As part of its participation under the banner Incredible India, the entire gamut of tourism potential both business and leisure travel are on show during the exhibition. At the show, India Tourism Dubai is providing a glimpse of the newer destinations as also the countless cultural, spiritual and travel experiences that India offers. Foreign tourist arrivals into India have witnessed a steady increase over the years, touching 5.58 million in 2010, a spurt of a whopping 9.3 per cent over 5.1 million tourist arrivals in 2009. One of the highlights at this year's Incredible India showcase at ATM 2011 would be the focus on the Medical Tourism potential in the country. Within the scope of this, India's vast potential as a health and wellness tourism destination, backed by its medical facilities and world-class doctors and hospitals, ancient healing systems such as Ayurveda and other rejuvenating

programs coupled with modern medical amenities as also the diverse tourism products such as rural tourism and culture, will be showcased. Talking about the scope for medical and health tourism in India, Vikas Rustagi, Regional Director (West Asia and Africa) at India Tourism Dubai, said, "India is a perfect destination for medical

Foreign tourist arrivals into India have witnessed a steady increase over the years, touching 5.58 million in 2010, a spurt of a whopping 9.3 per cent tourism that combines health treatment with visits to some of the most alluring and awe-inspiring places of the world". A growing number of tourists are flocking in large numbers because of the superlative medical care, equipments and facilities that India offers, Rustagi said. -PTI

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Tech News Air India faces July 31 deadline to join Star Alliance SAN FRANCISCO: Lufthansa, a founding member of the Star Alliance, has said Air India needs to complete all formalities to join the global airline grouping before the final deadline of July 31. "The Star Alliance has set the time limit for Air India to become a full-fledged member. So, it is time for Air India to prepare by July 31 and meet all criteria. All the solutions need to be worked out by that day", Carsten Spohr, CEO of Lufthansa German Airlines, said here. Lufthansa has been Air India's mentor, helping and guiding it complete all formalities for joining the alliance.-PTI

Tatas greatest beneficiaries, Balwa tells court NEW DELHI: Tatas are being portrayed by Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), India's premier investigation agency, as the "victim" in 2G spectrum scam but they are the greatest beneficiary in the allocation of the radio waves during the tenure of A Raja as Telecom Minister, a Delhi Court was told. Shahid Usman Balwa, promoter of Swan Telecom and accused in the case, alleged CBI was trying to shield Tatas by giving them a clean chit and portraying that Balwa's company benefited the most in the 2G spectrum allocation. Seeking to buttress the allegations, Balwa's counsel Vijay Agarwal, said how Tatas could be a victim when they were in good terms with Raja and Ratan Tata had praised the former Telecom Minister on the entire episode of 2G.-PTI

TechBiz 34 India Post

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May 27, 2011

Spain's Gamesa wins Indian wind turbine deal MADRID: Spanish wind turbine giant Gamesa said here it had won a big contract to supply turbines in India, touting it as one of the largest contracts of its kind in the world. Gamesa signed an outline agreement with power company Caparo Energy India Ltd. to deliver wind turbines with a combined capacity of 2,000 MW over the next five years, it said in a statement. The agreement was one of the largest wind turbine contracts signed in India and among the biggest in the world, Gamesa said. Gamesa would produce the turbines at its factories in India, supplying 150 MW of turbine capacity in 2012 alone, the firm said. -PTI

Geeta Menon appointed Dean of NYU's business school India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Geeta Menon, the Abraham Krasnoff Professor of Global Business and Professor of Marketing, has been appointed as the dean of the undergraduate college of the Leonard N. Stern School of Business. Her appointment is effective July 15, 2011. The announcement was made earlier this month by NYU President John Sexton and Provost David McLaughlin. Dean Menon - whose research interests include the study of consumer memory, information processing and emotions in the contexts of survey methodology, advertising of health information, and risk perception - has been a member of the faculty of NYU's Stern School of Business since 1990. John Sexton said, "In many ways, when Albert Gallatin founded NYU, he had a school like Stern very much in mind - an education that would serve those pursuing business interests well. But, as far-sighted a person as he was, I doubt he could imagine the business environment for which we now prepare our students - fast-

moving, high-tech, and global. In selecting a dean for Stern's undergraduate college, the search committee had a challenging task: find someone committed to undergraduate education, someone who believed Stern's graduates should be well educated, not just well-prepared for business; someone who

and its connection to a global network of academic centers - to sustain the undergraduate college's momentum. "And the search committee headed by Bruce Buchanan - delivered us just such a candidate: the superb Geeta Menon. She comes to us not only with all these

Geeta Menon

‘The superb Geeta Menon comes to us not only with all these attributes, not only with an outstanding record as a scholar, not only with a commitment to education, but also with a thorough knowledge and proven record of dedication to the Stern School’

understood the modern business environment; and someone who would imaginatively make use of the distinctive advantages NYU offers - its home in New York City

attributes, not only with an outstanding record as a scholar, not only with a commitment to education, but also with a thorough knowledge and proven record of

dedication to the Stern School. David McLaughlin said, "I am very pleased by the appointment of Geeta Menon. A strong scholar, an intellectual leader, an excellent academic administrator, an innovative thinker with a genuine interest in undergraduate education and a clear understanding of the need to prepare students for a globalized world: she will be an outstanding dean of Stern's undergraduate college. I congratulate her on her selection, thank the search committee for their hard work and discernment, and thank Fred Choi for his great work as acting dean." Before joining the faculty of NYU's Stern School in 1990, Geeta Menon was a research executive at the Indian Market Research Bureau in Delhi. After joining NYU, she has also held appointments as a Visiting Scholar at the Indian Institute of Management, a Visiting Scholar at Stanford Business School, a Visiting Professor at the Indian School of Business in Hyderabad, and the Laura and John J. Pomerantz Professor of Marketing at the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School. Contíd on page 35

Kotak Group launches first US mutual fund Basu sees Montek as best candidate for IMF top job NEW DELHI: Indian Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia is the best candidate for the top job at the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Chief Economic Advisor to the Ministry of Finance, Government of India Kaushik Basu said. "In my view, Montek is the best name... not only from India's point of view, but from the world's point of view also," Basu told reporters here at a function to mark the golden jubilee celebrations of the Institute of Applied Manpower Research (IAMR).-PTI

India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Kotak Group, one of India's leading diversified financial services providers, is building on its US presence with the launch of the first US mutual fund from an India-based firm. The ALPS Kotak India Growth Fund seeks to achieve long-term capital appreciation by investing in large-cap, mid-cap and small-cap Indian companies with high growth potential, and is intended to provide US retail and institutional investors with an opportunity to gain broad exposure across all key sectors of India's large and growing economy. ALPS Advisors Inc. will serve

as the Fund's investment advisor while Kotak will act as sub-advisor and will manage the Fund's investment portfolio. "The launch of the ALPS Kotak India Growth Fund is a natural next step in the expansion of Kotak

verages the Group's strong asset management and India equities research capabilities to provide US investors with an opportunity to potentially benefit from the insights and perspective provided by an Indian financial institution

The ALPS Kotak India Growth Fund seeks to achieve long-term capital appreciation by investing in large-cap, mid-cap and small-cap Indian companies with high growth potential Group's business and presence in North America," said Ravilochan Pola, CEO and President of Kotak Mahindra Inc., the Group's North American arm based in New York. "Launching our first US fund le-

with vast fund management experience, deep roots and nationwide presence in India." Kotak Mahindra (UK) Ltd.'s Nitin Jain will serve as principal Portfolio Manager for the Fund

and will oversee a team of fund managers and analysts seeking to identify the most attractive growth companies among India's top listed companies representing all levels of market capitalization and across all sectors. "The India growth story is a multi-faceted one, driven by a number of key, sometimes interrelated themes and trends, including demographic led growth in consumption, expansion of the financial sector, massive investment in infrastructure, continued growth in India's role as an outsourcing center and the cyclical impact of commodities," explained Jain. Contíd on page 35

TechBiz Post

May 27, 2011

India Post

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Frost & Sullivan Award for Netmagic Solutions India Post News Service

MUMBAI: Netmagic Solutions, India's leading managed IT hosting services provider, has been conferred with the 'Data Center Service Provider of the Year' award at the 9th edition of Frost & Sullivan 2011 India IT & Telecom Excellence Awards ceremony held in Delhi (NCR). Netmagic was felicitated with this award in recognition of their growth and performance achieved in the fast growing and competitive datacenter market in India. Netmagic provides managed IT hosting services to support mission critical IT environments of enterprises across the globe through their 7 state-of-the-art datacenters in India. Netmagic is one of the few datacenter service players who have a comprehensive portfolio of products and services to fulfill the IT Infrastructure hosting requirements of enterprises. Netmagic is also the first mover in the Indian cloud computing services space and has over 150 customers currently hosted on their third generation enterprise grade

and highly scalable public cloud (infrastructure-as-a-service) platform. This award also reaffirms the company's ability to plan, design, operate and maintain world-class

ners for their trust and support. One of the reasons for our success has been our constant endeavor to innovate and our story in the cloud computing space is testament.

Mr. Anand Rangachary (Left) Managing Director of Frost & Sullivan, South Asia, Middle East and North Africa,† handing over the Frost & Sullivan 2011 India IT & Telecom Excellence Award for ëData Center Service Provider of the Yearí to Mr. Sharad Sanghi, MD & CEO, Netmagic Solutions.

datacenters. "It is a great honor to receive such a prestigious award and is a testimony to our efforts in providing the complete range of datacenter solutions" said Sharad Sanghi, MD & CEO, Netmagic Solutions "I would like to especially thank all our customers and part-

With datacenter adoption gaining momentum in India as a result of reducing bandwidth costs and the 3G roll-out, we are committed to retaining this leadership position by embracing the latest in technology and developing innovative products and business models that enable our customer's businesses."

$25m for US-India Clean Energy Research Center India Post News Service

NEW YORK: As part of the Partnership to Advance Clean Energy announced by President Obama and Prime Minister Singh of India last November, the Department of Energy has committed $25 million over the next five years to support the US-India Joint Clean Energy Research and Development Center (JCERDC). Funding from the Department of Energy will be matched by US grantees to support $50 million in US research. The Indian Ministry of Science and Technology will provide an additional $50 million in Indian public and private funding to support research in India. This first-of-a-kind effort is a key component of the US and India's commitment to improve energy access and promote lowcarbon growth by facilitating joint research and development of clean

energy technologies, according to a White House release. Teams of scientists and engineers from the US and India will initially focus on research in three priority areas - building energy

Funding from the Department of Energy will be matched by US grantees to support $50 million in US research. The Indian Ministry of Science and Technology will provide an additional $50 million efficiency, second-generation biofuels and solar energy. "Developing and investing in new technologies is a key compo-

nent to meeting the goals of a clean energy future," said Secretary of Energy Steven Chu. "This innovative approach to collaborative research is a testament to the special relationship shared by the two countries. By working with our partners in India and sharing a strong commitment to building a clean energy economy, we can get further, faster, than by working alone." The Department of Energy will provide awards under each of the JCERDC's three initial priority areas. Universities, national labs, private companies and others are eligible to apply. Applications are due by August 16, 2011, with selections expected later this fall. The JCERDC will be located in existing facilities in both countries and funding from the US government will only be used to support work conducted by U.S. institutions and individuals.

Kotak Group launches first US mutual fund Contíd from page 34

"The Fund's investment strategy reflects this dynamic macroeconomic environment and our flexible multi-cap, cross-sector

approach is intended to maximize returns and lower volatility on behalf of our investors." The ALPS Kotak India Growth Fund is distributed by ALPS Dis-

tributors, Inc. and is currently available through Oppenheimer & Co., Commonwealth, Credit Suisse, Fidelity, JP Morgan, Pershing, Schwab and TD Ameritrade.

According to Anand Rangachary, Managing Director, Frost & Sullivan, South Asia, Middle East and North Africa, "There has been a significant shift in the CIO mindset driven by factors such as cautious IT budgets, rising energy costs and lack of skilled man power. The Data Center services market is witnessing an increasing traction with respect to new technologies deployed, innovative products offered and business models incorporated. Netmagic has been a pioneer in the incorporation of green IT measures for data centers. They are the first in India to have LEED's Gold certified Data Center facility in Chennai and also one of the first providers of IaaS services in India. Their innovative solutions for the BFSI industry include a colocated data center at the BSE, in

strategic partnership with Thomson Reuters. Market share growth, customer satisfaction and product innovation have been the key criteria for bestowing Netmagic with the '2011 Frost & Sullivan Datacenter Service Provider of the Year' award." A rigorous process was followed in selecting a company for this award, which involved detailed research done by analysts on market performance of each company in the fray. An independent panel of judges finally deliberated on the findings of the analyst team before they decided on the deserving award recipient. The evaluation parameters for the award comprised revenue growth, innovation and breadth of portfolio offered, geographical reach, customer base and key wins in 2010 achieved by the provider.

Geeta Menon appointed Dean of NYU's business school Contíd from page 34

The author of numerous scholarly publications, her work includes key articles published in the Journal of Consumer Research such as "Behavioral Frequency Judgments: An AccessibilityDiagnosticity Framework" (1995), "AIDS and Me, Never the Twain Shall Meet" (1998), "We're at as Much Risk as We're Led to Believe" (2002), and "A Sound Idea: Phonetic Effects on Consumer Judgments" (2004), as well as in the Journal of Marketing Research such as "How Well do you Know Your Partner?" (1995), "Are the Parts Better than the Whole?" (1997), and "Getting Emotional about Health" (2007). Her work has

been funded by the National Institutes of Health and the American Diabetes Association. She has served in numerous leadership roles in her field and received many honors and awards, including being elected president of the Association of Consumer Research; being named a Harold MacDowell Faculty Fellow; and receiving the Citibank Award for Excellence in Teaching, among others. Professor Menon received a BA in economics from Stella Maris College in 1981 and a MA in economics from Madras Christian College (both affiliated with Madras University), and a Ph.D. in business administration from the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign in 1991.

Health

Line

Unusual process saves Kan. abortion plan

TOPEKA, Kan.: Tactics used by Kansas lawmakers to impose new restrictions on private health insurance coverage for abortions are prompting threats of a legal challenge and talk of rewriting the Legislature's rules. Even legislators defending those tactics acknowledge they stretched or bent their rules to get the bill passed. They took a measure that had died without passing either chamber, folded it into another bill and overcame resistance to a questionable move with legislative trading. The resulting bill will ban insurance companies from automatically covering abortions in their health plans, except when a woman's life is at risk. The prohibition also will apply to insurance exchanges set up under last year's federal health care law. -AP

Georgia concern over leaf-eating caterpillars ATHENS, Ga.: University of Georgia researchers are tracking an outbreak of caterpillars that pose a threat to the health of oak trees in the state. The black-dotted brown moth has been found in counties near Athens, but researchers are worried the pests are spreading across Georgia. Kamal Gandhi, an assistant professor of forest entomology at the UGA, identified the leaf-eating caterpillars with the help of University of Connecticut researcher David Wagner. The caterpillars are dark grayish-brown caterpillars with thin white lines on both sides. -AP

UNMC launches mobile nursing clinic for rural Neb. OMAHA, Neb.: A mobile nursing clinic established by the University of Nebraska Medical Center will help serve older Nebraskans in rural areas. UNMC officials say the 38-foot, custom-built clinic will be staffed by three geriatric nurse practitioners. It begins operation this month and will be open six to eight days a month in the communities of Norfolk, Neligh and Red Cloud. The clinic is equipped with two exam rooms, a wheelchair lift and medical equipment. The facility will also be used to train students in UNMC's geriatric nurse practitioner program. -AP

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May 27, 2011

FDA panel may revoke key use of Abbott drug WASHINGTON: A panel of advisers to the Food and Drug Administration will consider this week whether to revoke a key indication from Abbott's blockbuster cholesterol drug Trilipix. Details on page 38

India needs to increase spending on healthcare: WHO GENEVA: An abysmally low government spending on health at USD 32 per capita - characterizes the poor state of healthcare in India which is facing a "double burden" of diseases afflicting both the poor and rich classes, a new WHO report has warned. While India's life expectancy has gone up to 65 years in 2009, up from 61 years in 2000, global life expectancy was still higher at 68 years in 2009 as compared to 64 in 1990. While per capita health expenditure is about USD 32 in poor countries, including in India, it is around USD 4590 in rich countries (more than 140 times). The high income countries consequently have 10 times more doctors, 12 times more nurses and midwifes and 30 times more dentists, the report said. With steep income disparities, India is also struggling to tackle a "double-burden" of diseases which include infectious diseases affecting the poor on the one hand and chronic lifestyle ailments typical of fast urbanization on the other. The average life expectancy of a male in India is now 63 as compared to 60 a decade ago, while a female lives 66 years, in India, says the report released by the World Health Organization ahead of the 64th World Health Assembly here. "Life expectancy and overall

health of Indians has been impressive notwithstanding high levels maternal and child mortality, high income disparities, and increasing infectious and noncommunicable (heart diseases, stroke, diabetes and cancer) diseases," says Colin Mathers, Coordinator of Mortality and Burden of Disease at WHO. China, on the other hand, has improved the same to 74 years

account of how nations are spending their funds on health sector and how they are addressing major diseases. It calls on governments to spend more in a focused-manner to avoid the rising mortalities from the infectious diseases that plague the poor in the society and the socalled non-communicable diseases of the growing middle classes".

Though the infant and child mortality has dropped steeply over the 10 years, it remains still high as compared to China which has seen spectacular improvements in this area during the last 10 years. Besides, China's targeted health expenditure and growing coverage of health insurance has made a remarkable dent since 2003, the report said. India faces high levels of maternal and child mortality, increasing burden of infectious diseases particularly among the poor, and growing incidence of non-communicable diseases in the well-to-do sections of the middle classes, the report says. WHO's latest "World Health Statistics 2011" offers a graphic

A big part of the problem is due to vast disparities in health spending between low and high income countries. The report warns governments grimly, including India, that they are facing a "double burden of disease". It involves a sudden spike in infectious diseases that cause maximum child and maternal mortality coupled with chronic noncommunicable diseases - such as diabetes, heart diseases, and cancers - caused by globalization and urbanization.

Despite high economic growth in the last decade, India continues to be one of the highest disease-burdened countries in the world in absolute terms. While the infant mortality is 50 per 1000 lives, the mortality of children below 5 years is 66 per 1000 lives. Though the infant and child mortality has dropped steeply over the 10 years, it remains still high as compared to China which has seen spectacular improvements in this area. The infant mortality in China is about 17 per 1000 and 22 per 1000 for children below 5 years. "Since 2003, China has rapidly increased health insurance which contributed to significant improvements in the health sector," Ties Boerma, director of WHO's Department of Health Statistics and Informatics. India also faces the specter of non-communicable diseases heart diseases, stroke, diabetes and cancer - which currently make up two-thirds of all deaths globally. The report says the increase in the non-communicable diseases in India and elsewhere is due to ageing population and spread of risk factors associated with globalization and urbanization and coupled with increasing use of tobacco, sedentary life styles, unhealthy diet and excessive use of alcohol. -PTI

Bill Gates praises Nitish Kumar at World Health Assembly GENEVA: Bill Gates has showered praise on Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar at the World Health Assembly for his impressive performance of rapid vaccination for the children in the state, saying "people are hungry for visionary leaders" who deliver upon their promises. "Inter-state jealousies" over social performance are contributing to increased focus on health, Gates told reporters here. "I was struck by the chief minister's popularity," he said in his address to the 64th World

Health Assembly (WHA), which is the governing body of the World Health Organization (WHO).

overcome the worst circumstances," said Gates, adding "People are hungry for visionary leaders who not only promise a

'Let us rededicate ourselves to the idea that no district will be below 80 per cent coverage,' Gates emphasized at the annual meeting of WHA to set the priorities for the coming year "Nitish Kumar and Muhammad Pate (head of Nigeria's polio eradication program) have demonstrated that the best leaders can

better future, but deliver upon that promise." He urged health ministers to embark on rapid vaccination pro-

gram to reduce child mortality. "Let us rededicate ourselves to the idea that no district will be below 80 per cent coverage," Gates emphasized at the annual meeting of WHA to set the priorities for the coming year. India has one of the highest child and infant mortality rates in the world. Despite a robust pharmaceutical industry and growing economic prosperity, India is yet to make a significant dent on its disease-burden, said health analysts. Cont’d on page 37

Health Science Post

May 27, 2011

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East Carolina University, churches Maine Senate sends health care overhaul to gov address obesity GREENVILLE, NC: During the week, personal trainer Haywood Parker preaches physical fitness. In Sunday sermons, Bishop Haywood Parker doesn't change that message. "Obesity is plaguing America like never before," said Parker, senior pastor of Truth Tabernacle Ministries in Rocky Mount. "This is a cultural issue, and the church has an obligation to respond to the issue." One way Parker's church has sought to respond is through participating in the Prosper Project, a three-county initiative conducted by the Department of Public Health at East Carolina University's Brody School of Medicine. The project, launched in the summer of 2010, aims to wage a spiritual as well as a physical battle against diabetes and cardiovascular disease. More than 500 members of a dozen primarily black churches in Edgecombe, Duplin and Lenoir counties have been involved in Prosper, an acronym for "Preparing Ourselves for Spiritual and Physical Enrichment and Renewal."

"To make a connection with people, it's effective to work through their churches with people they know," said Dr. Lloyd Novick, chairman of Brody's department of public health and coprincipal investigator of the project. "We believe that we're

'In the minority community, the church is really a consistent place where you spend a lot of time and an integral part of your life' going to be able to demonstrate that a faith-based project like this, working from churches, actually can be successful in impacting on these individuals' health." Participants in the six-month project attend three sessions each month during which they weigh in and have their blood pressure and blood sugar levels checked. Groups meet at the church not only to learn about nutrition,

physical activity and overall wellness but to study Scripture pertaining to health. (The project's motto comes from 3 John 1:2 "Beloved, I pray that in all respects you may prosper and be in good health, just as your soul prospers.") "Eastern North Carolina is known as the stroke belt but also the Bible belt," said Nancy Little, a clinical associate professor in the Department of Public Health and co-principal investigator of the project. "We go to where the people are. "The church is more than just a place to come on Sunday and on Wednesday night," she said. "In the minority community, the church is really a consistent place where you spend a lot of time and an integral part of your life." Theodore Thomas was practically raised in the church. Growing up with a father as a pastor, Thomas remembers being at church not just for worship on Sundays, but for meals as well. "Growing up we used to eat at the church all the time," said Thomas, now a dentist in Clinton and pastor of First Baptist Church in Warsaw. -AP

AUGUSTA, Maine: The Maine Senate has passed a health insurance overhaul bill that allows more interstate purchases and subsidies to help provide coverage to people considered uninsurable because of their health problems, setting the stage for Gov. Paul LePage's expected signature. The 24-10 vote followed a weekend "cooling off" period between majority Republicans who support the bill and Democrats who say it's being rushed through. But in the end, Republicans picked up three votes by Democrats who were persuaded to go along by amendments aimed at keeping rates from rising disproportionately in rural areas and not forcing people to travel long distances for care. "Will this do as we hoped? I don't know," said Sen. Bill Diamond, D-Windham, sponsor of one of the amendments. But he said the present system "is not working" and that people of the state "asked us to do something ... We have to move forward and now is the time." Republicans said the bill en-

courages more choice and competition to hold down costs. It includes subsidies for the chronically ill and those with pre-existing conditions, funded by a tax on premiums of up to $4 per person per month for nearly all Maine policyholders. No one could be denied health insurance or kicked off a plan for getting sick or having pre-existing conditions. Starting in 2014, Mainers buying individual insurance, not through employers, could buy policies from companies based in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut. Companies with fewer than 50 employees would be allowed to band together to create larger insurance pools to obtain better rates. For companies with 20 or fewer employees, the plan also provides a tax credit if they maintain wellness programs. Senate Majority Leader Jon Courtney, R-Springvale, agreed change is needed, saying, "The good intentions of the past have led us to some of the highest health insurance rates in the country." -AP

India Post

Health Science Post

May 20, 2011

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New regimen drastically shortens TB treatment ATLANTA: Health officials celebrated a faster treatment for people who have tuberculosis but aren't infectious, after investigators found a new combination of pills knocks out the disease in three months instead of nine. That means more people are likely to finish their treatment for latent tuberculosis, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials said. ``New, simpler ways to prevent TB disease are urgently needed, and this breakthrough represents one of the biggest developments in TB treatment in decades,'' CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden said, in a prepared statement. For decades, people infected with TB bacteria but not ill have been treated with a special TB pill, isoniazid, taken once a day for nine months. It's been the standard regimen despite problems getting people to take the pill every day. But in one of the largest federal trials to examine preventive tuber-

culosis therapy, investigators found that another regimen was just as effective. Just once a week and for just three months, patients took a larger dose of isoniazid and also a dose of another antibiotic, rifapentine. About 82 percent of the people in the three-month regimen completed the full treatment, while just 69 percent on the nine-month regimen did. Only seven cases of TB disease developed in people on the new treatment, compared with 15 in the standard group. ``It was quite effective,'' said Dr. Wafaa El-Sadr, a Columbia University professor of medicine and epidemiology who was involved in the study. The study was led by Dr. Timothy Sterling of Vanderbilt University and was presented at the American Thoracic Society International Conference in Denver. Tuberculosis is caused by bacteria spread from person to

person through the air. TB usually affects the lungs, and can lead to symptoms such as chest pain and coughing up blood. Globally, it kills about 1.7 million people each year.

About 5 percent to 10 percent of people with latent TB develop the disease if not treated, meaning they are a major obstacle to eliminating TB in the United States. 'The 11 million persons with latent TB represent a ticking bomb' Thanks to antibiotics and other measures, the TB rate in the United States has been falling for years. Last year, it hit an all-time low a total of 11,181 reported cases

of TB illness. But more than 11 million Americans have latent TB, meaning they are infected with the TB bacteria but have not had symptoms and are not infectious. About 5 percent to 10 percent of people with latent TB develop the disease if not treated, meaning they are a major obstacle to eliminating TB in the United States. ``The 11 million persons with latent TB represent a ticking bomb. They're the source of future TB cases,'' said Dr. Kenneth Castro, director of the CDC's Division of Tuberculosis Elimination. Most Americans with latent TB don't know they are infected, but testing has been targeted at groups of people who tend to have higher rates of TB infection or who are more susceptible to TB infection progressing into illness. About 200,000 to 300,000 Americans with latent TB start treatment each year. But many don't stick with it,

sometimes because they feel well and don't see the need to keep taking a pill against an illness they haven't developed. Some don't like that they cannot drink alcohol while taking isoniazid. The study looked at about 8,000 people with latent TB in the United States, Canada, Brazil and Spain. They were followed for nearly three years from the time they started the study. Most of the top TB research centers in the United States were involved. About half were given the standard treatment, a daily 300 milligrams dose of isoniazid for nine months, and they took it on their own. The other half were put on a 900-milligram dose of isoniazid and a 900 milligram dose of rifapentine, but did it in front of a doctor or other health-care worker. The researchers acknowledged that follow-up studies are needed to see if patients on the threemonth regimen are as faithful at taking their medicine when they aren't being monitored. -AP

Indiana family alters plans FDA panel may revoke after kidney transplants key use of Abbott drug FORT WAYNE, Ind.: How much of what you do is tied up in who you are? Sue Sell's midlife career shift to nursing directly relates to her experiences as a mother, particularly to her middle child. She's coming off her shift at Lutheran Hospital, where she is a registered nurse. A noisy espresso machine in a coffee kiosk next to her hisses and sputters as Sell, still dressed in scrubs, sits down at a hospital cafĂŠ table. The reason she wears the scrubs sits next to her. It's her daughter Marissa Brunson, who though not a nurse is nearly as familiar with nurses as her mother. Sue Sell married at age 18, and the couple soon had a daughter, Brittany. Next came Marissa, now 28, and a son, Levi. Together, they ran the family's agricultural business in Huntington County, and Sell ran a cleaning business on the side. The Sell family had a stereotypical Midwestern existence in the 1980s and early 1990s. Until Marissa got sick. Marissa Brunson dresses stylishly and has long, eye-catching red hair. Her slender hands and hollow cheeks give her a look of fragility, and in some ways, that's appropriate they're outward signs of her illness.

The symptoms began in third grade. She began losing fat in her upper body and face and a school physical showed her kidneys were failing. Trips to Cincinnati, to the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota and to Indiana University in Bloomington followed. Marissa was diagnosed with

Family members weren't matches, and Marissa's kidney came from a donor who had just died. That, too, caused guilty feelings, Sell said membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, Type II MPGN Type II for short a condition as serious as the weighty name suggests. The rare autoimmune kidney disease would eventually result in her needing a kidney transplant, the family was told. Life for Marissa went on, if not quite as normal. In part because she had to avoid contact sports, she played varsity softball all four years of high school. Most spectators didn't know she'd gone on dialysis in eighth grade, treatments that continued through high school until her disease progressed so far that she

finally was added to a transplant waiting list. The summer before her senior year of high school, in 2000, she had a kidney transplant. Her mother remembers feeling guilt through those years for a couple of reasons. "As a parent, first off, you go through a lot of guilt that you've done something, or missed something," Sell said. Family members weren't matches, and Marissa's kidney came from a donor who had just died. That, too, caused guilty feelings, Sell said. But for her daughter, it meant a fresh start. "It was nerve-racking, but exciting at the same time," Brunson said. That kidney functioned into her first year of college at Indiana University, when she began having complications. Her doctors asked her to quit school, saying the full course load was causing too much stress on her body, and she did. Brunson went back on dialysis in December 2004. In July 2005, she got a call saying a new kidney was waiting. Brunson said she didn't experience as much stress during the second transplant because she knew what to expect. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 39

WASHINGTON: A panel of advisers to the Food and Drug Administration will consider this week whether to revoke a key indication from Abbott's blockbuster cholesterol drug Trilipix. Trilipix is a fibrate, a drug that lowers blood fats called triglycerides while boosting ``good'' cholesterol. The drug is approved for combination use with statins like Lipitor and Zocor, which lower

The group will also discuss data from the study that showed a higher rate of heart attacks among women who took Trilipix in combination with a statin ``bad'' cholesterol and are the most widely-used class of cholesterol drugs. But a 5,000-patient government study released in March showed that diabetic patients taking Trilipix plus a statin had just as many heart attacks as patients taking a statin alone. The study was designed to show that the combination reduced heart attack, stroke and other deadly events in patients with Type 2 diabetes. The FDA will ask an outside

panel to consider several options for Trilipix. Those options include revoking the drug's approval for use with statins, updating its label with information about the study, or simply leaving it on the market as is. The panel's recommendation is not binding. The group will also discuss data from the study that showed a higher rate of heart attacks among women who took Trilipix in combination with a statin. In its scientific review posted online, the FDA said drugs like Trilipix have shown ``potential'' to reduce heart attacks for over 40 years. ``However, data from large clinical outcomes trials have produced mixed results,'' the agency concludes. Drugmaker Abbott Laboratories said it supports adding information to the label from the government study. But company executives say two-thirds of the patients enrolled in the study would not be eligible for Trilipix based on physician prescribing guidelines. ``The patients who benefit from this drug are very easy to identify: they have high triglycerides and low HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol and that is reflected in the current labeling,'' said Dr. James Stolzenbach, an Abbott vice president who oversees cholesterol medications. -AP

May 27, 2011

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Indiana family alters plans AIA to raise funds for HIV patients in India after kidney transplants India Post News Service Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 38

She waves her thin hand in a dismissive gesture. "It was nothing," she said. Her mother smiles and disagrees. Sue Sell said her guilt compounded a bit on the occasion of her daughter's second transplant. In November 2005, Dow Sell - Sell's brother-in-law and Brunson's uncle - died of bacterial meningitis. His organs were donated, and Sell said that finally, her guilt was gone. She recalls her mother-in-law being told by a grateful organ recipient, "I get to be a father again; I get to be a grandfather." "You're on the other end, and it's the only thing that makes sense," she said. "Out of their death, something good has to happen." She gestures toward her daughter. "We know what that's like, because she gets to have a life," Sell said. That life for Brunson has included going back to college and her wedding in 2009 to a high school classmate she didn't know at school but met online years later. Meanwhile, her mother was undergoing a transformation of her own, influenced in large part by the nurses she met during her daughter's many hospital stays. They told her she'd make a good nurse herself. As Brunson's first transplanted kidney was failing, Sell, now 48, began to think seriously about a career change. "I decided, 'I've put up with all this,' " she said."All the puking, the cleaning up, the emotions and thought I could do it." In the fall of 2005, after Brunson's second transplant, both mother and daughter began classes at Ivy Tech Community College. The daughter graduated in 2007 as a certified medical assistant, and her mother has been a licensed nurse for nearly three years. After a short time at St. Joseph Hospi-

tal working in various departments, Sell took a job at Lutheran Hospital in the cardiovascular intensive care and transplant units. Occasionally, Sell will tell a transplant patient about her daughter, and when patients hear Brunson's had two transplants, they're encouraged. Once in a while, she gets emotional being around transplant patients, such as a young girl who reminded her of her daughter.

'You're on the other end, and it's the only thing that makes sense,' she said. 'Out of their death, something good has to happen.' She gestures toward her daughter. 'We know what that's like, because she gets to have a life,' Sell said "I know what the mother goes through," she said. "People don't mind if you get a little emotional." Mother and daughter are close in many aspects of their lives, such as their weekly engagement tutoring Burmese students and their work on the family farm. But the transplants have brought them together in other ways. Both volunteer for the Indiana Organ Procurement Council and hope to participate in the National Kidney Foundation's Kidney Walk fundraiser this summer. Dealing with Brunson's illness necessitated a change of perspective for her entire family. "It's hard to watch your kid be sick, and it's hard on their siblings," Sell said. "That kind of illness affects the whole family." -AP

Bill Gates praises Nitish Kumar at World Health Assembly Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 36

Gates said nations must strive to "make this the decade of vaccines," underscoring the need for donor countries not to turn a deaf ear for making generous contributions towards "vaccines and immunization." The founder of Microsoft said pharmaceutical companies must manufacture affordable vaccines for poor countries, while WHO's 193 members must "make vaccines a central focus of your health systems, to ensure that all your children have access to existing vaccines now - and to new ones as they become available. He asked vaccine companies in the world to emulate "the Serum Institute of India, led by Dr Cyrus Poonawalla," for manufacturing the low-cost meningitis vaccine. He said the Serum institute has become world's largest producer of the measles vac-

cines, and the pentavalent vaccine, suggesting that the Indian company is now manufacturing inexpensive "diarrhea and pneumonia vaccines." The Gates foundation has become the second largest donor to the WHO after the US. The WHO, which is facing unprecedented financial deficit to the tune of USD 300 million, is now seeking funds from private and philanthropic outfits committed to improving global health, Dr Margaret Chan, WHO's director general, told reporters. She told PTI that there is no conflict of interests or lack of accountability for the funds received from private sources. "WHO is a multilateral organization and we have clear rules," she said, suggesting that it doesn't allow the companies to have any influence in its day-to-day decisions. -PTI

NEW YORK: The Project India team of the Association of Indians in America (AIA) is organizing a fundraising event for the benefit of HIV/AIDS patients in India. Partnering with Gold Coast Film Festival in its inaugural festival in Long Island June 1-5, AIA will be screening the romantic comedy film "Harry Tries to Marry" the proceeds from which will go to the HIV/ AIDS care in India. The Festival is sponsored by the Town of North Hempstead and will showcase diverse films and documentaries selected from many countries. Harry Tries to Marry, starring Rahul Rai, Stephanie Estes and Freisha Bemanbehram,

is produced by New Jersey-based filmmaker Nayan Padrai, and is winner of London Asian Film Festival. Lead actor Rahul Rai is based in Long Island, New York. Part of the film has been shot in Gujarat, India. AIA's Project India has channeled more than $15 million worth of medical equipment to India through its partnership with an NGO group, Gujarat AIDS Prevention Unit (GAP), based in Ahmedabad. To this end, AIA has helped over 1000 patients in over 60 villages so far. Since 2007, AIA, in partnership with the Brooklyn Hospital's team of doctors, has successfully conducted medical camps, seminars, patient care and provided vital counseling to patients who have little or no access to medical assistance.

NV hospitals back Dem tax plan over Medicaid cuts CARSON CITY, Nev.: Some Nevada hospitals are backing a Democratic plan for a new business tax as a way to avoid repeated cuts to Medicaid. Sunrise Health System President Sylvia Young told the Senate Revenue Committee the Sunrise hospitals in Las Vegas absorb tens of millions of dollars in losses providing

care for uninsured people or Medicaid recipients. Such deep losses could prompt more providers to turn away Medicaid patients. Gov. Brian Sandoval has proposed lowering the rate at which hospitals are reimbursed for serving Medicaid patients, although a legislative committee reversed some of those cuts. -AP

Realty Tidbits

CBI grills NRI, CA for Chennai land deal

Real Estate

he Central Bureau of Investi gation (CBI) quizzed Malaysia-based NRI Sarvanan and chartered accountant Ratnam, who are considered close to former Tamil Nadu chief minister M Karunanidhi's kin, in the 2G case. The questioning took place before DMK leader Kanimozhi's bail plea comes up for hearing. The duo was questioned for nearly six hours about a land deal in Chennai, which was estimated to be worth Rs 200 crore, but was sold at Rs 25 crore to a businessman from Malaysia, CBI sources said. CBI said Sarvanan was a key player in the deal for 53,000-sq ft plot on Anna Malai Road in Chennai, which was taken on lease by an industrial house for nearly 30 years till 2005. The industrial house has filed a suit in the Madras High Court for renewing the lease. Sarvanan allegedly got the power of attorney for the plot from the owners, and sold it to a private firm at Rs 25 crore in 2009, days before parliamentary polls. CBI is probing whether the land deal at one-eighth the estimated market price through Sarvanan, who has interests in real estate, was a way to camouflage the alleged bribe money accrued from spectrum allocation to telecom firms, sources said.

25% rise in home loan rates; SBI's now at 10.25%

large number of home loan customers with floating rates are in for some tough times ahead, with major banks and housing finance companies (HFCs) raising mortgage rates. Over the last two years, interest on home loans has gone up by at least 200 basis points (100 basis points = 1%), from about 8% to above 10% for even the best-rated customers. That is a hike of about 25%. In some cases, industry experts said, such hikes could well have taken the tenure of home loans to beyond 20 years. This in turn raises the possibility of banks and HFCs now asking some customers to partpay the principal amount of home loans. State Bank of India, the country's largest bank, raised both its deposit and lending rates, taking its effective home loan rate to 10.25%. ICICI Bank, the second largest bank, also raised its rates. HDFC Bank and HDFC are both expected to follow soon. After the latest round of rate hikes, SBI's home loan customers would pay 100 basis points (bps) above its base rate of 9.25%; thus the effective rate becomes 10.25%.

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Tata launching luxury project in Gurgaon

May 27, 2011

Details on page 41

Dubai hotspot for Indian buyers with sharp drop in prices

f you're fretting over the in creasing property rates in your city, how about buying a house in a place where the average prices are 60% cheaper than those in Mumbai? And no, we're not talking about a tin shack in the boondocks. Actually, we aren't talking of India at all. It's in the heart of a country, where water, sanitation and transport facilities are better than in any Indian city. Yes, Dubai is back on the radar of Indian buyers after a sharp drop in realty prices in the past couple of years. However, before you rush to buy land, you need to know the purchase process and the charges you will incur to own a house in Dubai. Till May 2002, foreigners were permitted to only rent property or own it on a 99-year leasehold basis. However, they can now buy and own freehold property, but only in the New Dubai region. However, unlike in India, the country offers protection of the investor's capital during the pur-

chase process through the Escrow law. Another regulation to monitor the ownership and management of a jointly owned property is the Strata law. If, however, you think buying property in Dubai will automatically get you a job, think again. Owning a house doesn't

a 2-3-day realty tour, wherein he will take you around the city to show you various options. A tour that includes return air fare, accommodation, meals and visa charges costs approximately Rs 50,000. But don't pick up a realty agent blindly. "Only those brokers who are reg-

Till May 2002, foreigners were permitted to only rent property or own it on a 99-year leasehold basis. However, they can now buy and own freehold property, but only in the New Dubai region entitle you to a permanent resident visa or the right to work in Dubai. If you're still keen to buy one, you can begin your search on websites such as homesdubai.com, dubaipropertygroup.com and househuntersdubai.com. You can also approach a broker, who can arrange

istered with RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Agency) are permitted to sell property on behalf of investors and developers. Individual agents should have a broker ID number that certifies they have passed the Brokers' Certified Training Course," says Matthew Green, head of research

& consultancy, CB Richard Ellis, UAE. You can check the website of the regulator, rpdubai.ae, to see the list of approved brokers. To buy property, you need four documents-a copy of your passport, proof of income for six months, bank statement for six months and credit history for 36 months. The developer will assist you in having the property registered with the Dubai Land Department. "The buyer will have to pay 1% of the property price as registration charge to the department. The seller too has to pay 1%. Once this is done, the buyer gets the title deed from the department," says Darshan Hiranandani, director and CEO, Hircon International. If you want to finance your purchase, you can avail of a loan from a Dubai bank or a branch of an Indian bank, but it's only available for properties that are already constructed. The loan-to-value ratio is 40-75% for Dubai banks, while it is 60-85% for the Indian ones.

How an underwater homeowner got a refinance NEW JERSEY: A HARP refi isn't always fast and easy. Ask Joseph DeLucia, who got a mortgage refinance under the Home Affordable Refinance Program. From application to closing, the process took six months. His refinance rate is a lot lower than the rate on his original mortgage, and the payment is $300 per month less. DeLucia says the savings make the months of frustration and lost sleep worthwhile. "My advice to anyone would be: Don't give up," he says. "Just hang in there if you really want it." The HARP refi enables homeowners to refinance, even if plummeting property values have left them owing more than their homes are currently worth. A homeowner can get a HARP refi for up to 125 percent of appraised value. DeLucia bought his house on the bay side of the New Jersey shore in 2006. Property values already were declining. In early 2009, DeLucia read on Bankrate.com

that rates had fallen. He owed more than the house was worth, so a HARP refi was his only option. He applied with his current servicer May 1, 2009. He closed Nov. 5. In those six months, he spent dozens of hours on the phone, sent scores of emails and engaged in at least two screaming

spelled his name as "Delusia." It was his servicer's error, but it was up to DeLucia to spend time and effort to fix it. He even sent a photocopy of his driver's license. He was assigned to a loan officer. Later, he was switched abruptly to another loan officer, who needed documentation to be

‘At some points where I would talk on the phone and I felt that we covered some important ground, I would follow up that conversation with an email restating what we said,’ DeLucia says

matches. Here are some tips gleaned from DeLucia's experience. Expect nothing to go smoothly DeLucia, an architect who is about to become fully licensed, was ensnared in a mistake from the beginning. He applied over the phone, and the loan officer mis-

re-sent. DeLucia faxed documents, and when they were misplaced, he faxed them again. At the end, he was stood up at the closing table three times; the fourth time was the charm. If possible, email documents instead of faxing them After a few lost faxes, DeLucia

began scanning documents and sending them as attachments to emails. "That way, they couldn't say, 'We didn't get the fax,'" he says. "I didn't get as much runaround." Email's electronic trail proved handy. "There were occasions where they said, 'We didn't get this,' and I said, 'Yeah, you did,' and I forwarded the original message," he says. "At some points where I would talk on the phone and I felt that we covered some important ground, I would follow up that conversation with an email restating what we said," DeLucia says. He especially followed up on rate-lock extensions. On May 1, he locked a rate of 4.75 percent, and he didn't want to lose it. So every month he called the loan officer to get the rate lock extended. Then, he sent emails to confirm the conversations that had just taken place. Cont’d on page 41

Real Estate

May 27, 2011

India Post 41

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Tata launching luxury project in Gurgaon Fire Capital to raise $ 100mn ata Housing Development homes at a price starting from Rs advance stages, while the profor India housing Company Ltd has said it 1.5 crore. On the company's expan- posal for expanding into two new will invest Rs 2,000 crore in sion plans for this fiscal, Banerjee lines of business is still at a pre-

the next three years to build a luxury housing project in Gurgaon and also announced its plans to foray into the overseas market this fiscal. The Mumbai-based realty firm, a subsidiary of Tata Sons, said it is exploring the option of entering into two new businesses related to the real estate sector, which the company did not specify. Tata Housing will invest Rs 1,000 crore this fiscal to acquire new projects and is targeting the addition of 20-25 million square feet of area over-and-above the 40 million square feet in its possession at the end of the last fiscal. "We are launching a luxury housing project, 'Primanti', in Gurgaon, comprising 1,100 units. The investment to develop this project will be Rs 2,000 crore," the company's Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Brotin Banerjee, told reporters. He said the company has bought 36 acres of land from group company Tata Realty and Infrastructure for about Rs 800 crore. The proposed investment will be met through internal accruals. The company is offering

said: "We will launch 8-10 new projects this year. Besides that, we are looking at two new lines of business related to land develop-

Elaborating on the Gurgaon project, Banerjee said this is the company's second project in the city and the company is in advanced stages of launching two more projects in the DelhiNCR this fiscal in a joint venture ment. It will be smaller in size than the realty business." Moreover, he said the company is planning to expand operations into overseas markets this fiscal. "We are looking for partners to enter into two countries in the SAARC region," he said. Banerjee said the plan to foray into the international market is in

liminary stage. He refused to divulge further details on these new initiatives. Asked about acquisition of a land bank, he said the company had 40 million square feet of developable area at the end of the last fiscal and is looking to add 2025 million square feet this fiscal. "We will invest Rs 1,000 crore on acquisition of new projects, which will be outright buy of land and joint development agreement with land owners. Some of it would go toward our overseas foray," he added. Elaborating on the Gurgaon project, Banerjee said this is the company's second project in the city and the company is in advanced stages of launching two more projects in the Delhi-NCR this fiscal in a joint venture. "We have signed term sheets for a couple of projects in DelhiNCR. One project would be affordable housing," he added. Asked about the company's turnover, he said Tata Housing is growing at an over 100 per cent CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) since the 2007-08 fiscal, but did not give an exact number.

ire Capital, the first private equity fund focused on the Indian real estate sector, plans to raise $100 million to invest in housing projects, as banks turn away from the debt-ridden sector leaving builders to fall back on PEs. The firm will raise the capital primarily from its existing investors in the US to invest in tier-II and -III cities in states like Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, its chief executive officer Om Chaudhry said. "There is an acute shortage of residential units, as India would require at least 30 million homes by 2012 to meet the existing housing need. We want to reduce some bit of the demand and supply gap in small towns and cater to the middle income segment," he said. A majority of the homes needed are in the mid and lower income group. Fire Capital, established in 2004, raised its first fund worth $121 million in 2006, with an ability to invest around $250 million through the co-investment commitments of its investor base. The fund is almost exhausted. It is raising the additional amount to built 25-50 acres with each builder

in small towns this fiscal year. The PE fund typically works with local developers rather than large realty firms in tier-II and -III cities and takes majority equity holdings in residential projects. It selects builders to primarily get the

The firm will raise the capital primarily from its existing investors in the US to invest in tier-II and -III cities in states like Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, its chief executive officer Om Chaudhry said land and then forms joint ventures where it acquires majority stake. The fund receives its return on investment once the project is sold. So far, it has invested in cities like Indore, Nagpur and Jaipur, besides outskirts of Bangalore.

Sahara may pay Rs 70crore annual rent

he residential property market may be stagnant, but the demand for of fice space is still strong if a lease transaction in Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) is any indication. The deal, touted as the highest ever for a commercial property in terms of annual rent, will fetch the owner, Parinee Developers, almost Rs 70 crore a year from the Sahara Group. According to real estate sources, the UPbased Sahara Group will take over 2.5 lakh sq ft space in Parinee Cresenzo, a 20-storey commercial project by Parinee Developers, co-owners of the Kochi Tuskers IPL team. The two parties reportedly negotiated the deal for a lease amount of Rs 225 a sq ft, which works out to an annual rent of close

to Rs 70 crore. "A few buildings in BKC command over Rs 375/sq ft. However, the Parinee-Sahara deal is the highest in terms of the total annual rent," said a property tracker. "Given a scenario in which the lease rental rates for ready-to-occupy premises in BKC are between Rs 300 and Rs 350 per sq ft, it looks like a good transaction." Parth Mehta, business development head of Parinee Developers, refused to comment on the deal. Industry sources said BKC was currently the "hotspot" for most corporates, MNCs and banks as compared to the rival commercial business districts of Lower Parel and Nariman Point-in the latter, lease rentals are currently between Rs 225 and Rs 250/sq ft on an average. "Nariman

Point buildings can only offer offices ranging between 500 sq ft and 3,000 sq ft but clients who want a floor space in excess of one lakh sq ft find it readily available in BKC," they said. The Cresenzo building stands on a 2.2 acre plot which Parinee acquired from MMRDA (Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority) on an 80-year leasehold basis in July 2006 for Rs 536 crore. In 2008, the builder sold 2.2 lakh sq ft to Standard Chartered, for Rs 720 crore. About four months ago, BNP Paribas paid about Rs 375 per sq ft for 1.10 lakh sq ft space in BKC's Maker Maxcity Tower One, a cluster of high-end commercial buildings built by the Maker Group and Reliance Industries. The annual lease rent works out to almost Rs 50 crore. Automobile giDeLucia straightened that out, ant Volkswagan took on and the loan went back into underwriting for another four or five weeks. "That was a huge hurdle -- it was a big screaming match on my end," he says. Outlast the lender DeLucia persevered -- through the late revelation that he would need a second appraisal (screaming match No. 2), through the blown appointments for closings and through all the lost documents and full voicemail boxes. "I bet there's a ton of people in my position who just give up," he says. "Don't let them win." -Courtesy Bankrate.com

How an underwater homeowner got a refinance Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 40

Stay in touch For the first couple of months, DeLucia called every week or so. "But as soon as summer hit and it was starting to get into early fall, I was calling these people every day, sending emails all the time," he says. "I guess they were incredibly busy. A lot of times, I couldn't even leave a message because the person who I was appointed to, their voicemail box was full." He's lucky to have a desk job where he could dial his servicer, put the phone on speakerphone mode and wait (sometimes more than an hour) for a human being

to pick up. He made a point to return emails immediately. DeLucia realizes that not everyone has this kind of job flexibility. Anticipate stupidity From the beginning, DeLucia stressed he would pay closing costs in cash -- instead of rolling those fees into the new loan -- so he would stay within the allowable loan-to-value ratio. "I made this point to them on more than one occasion," he says. Still, DeLucia's servicer rejected his refi application because the closing costs, if rolled into the loan, would put him over the loanto-value limit.

lease 50,000 sq ft space in Maker Maxcity at Rs 500 a sq ft. In 2007, the Gemological Institute of America signed a nine-year lease agreement with the Wadhwa group when it rented 1.06 lakh sq ft in the Trade Centre building in BKC for over Rs 40 crore annually. A month ago, Citibank India is believed to have bought for over Rs 1,000 crore (Rs 33,000/sq ft) a 3-lakh sq ft office space in a BKC building constructed by the Purnendu Chatterjee promoted-TCG Urban Infrastructure and New York-based realty firm Vornado Realty Trust. In 2007, the London-headquartered Barclays Bank paid a record-breaking rent of Rs 725 a sq ft per month for a 15,000-sqft office space in Worli's Cee-Jay House, whose landlord is aviation minister Praful Patel. It was the highest commercial rental deal in terms of per-square-foot in the coun-

In Brief Oklahoma House panel approves immigration bill OKLAHOMA CITY: A House panel has approved a bill on illegal immigration that focuses primarily on human traffickers, prompting criticism from members of both parties that the bill does little to address the problem. The measure by Rep. George Faught was signed out of a House conference committee. The Muskogee Republican says it is the result of input from law enforcement and mostly targets human smugglers and others who prey on illegal immigrants. It also authorizes police to recommend immigrants for certain types of visas if the immigrants report and aid in reporting illegal criminal activity. Some Democrats and hard-line Republicans complain the bill does little more than placate voters who wanted action on illegal immigration. -AP

Santana scolds Georgia for new immigration law ATLANTA: Carlos Santana has used baseball's annual Civil Rights Game as a platform to admonish Georgia and Arizona for their new immigration laws. Santana received the Beacon of Change Award before the BravesPhillies game. The Grammy-winning musician said he was representing immigrants before adding: ``The people of Arizona, and the people of Atlanta, Georgia, you should be ashamed of yourselves.'' Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal had signed a bill that cracks down on illegal immigration in the state. The bill requires many employers to check the immigration status of new hires and authorizes law enforcement officers to check the immigration status of some suspects. -AP

Sheriff questions illegal immigrant civil rights LOS ANGELES: Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca has questioned the civil rights of illegal immigrants in radio remarks that have riled immigrant advocates. Baca said in an interview on KCRW radio that illegal immigrants basically are not subject to the kinds of civil rights protections Americans are in his defense of a federal program that checks the immigration status of arrestees. He says federal policy should decide whether someone should be deported if they haven't been convicted of a crime. -AP

Immigration 42

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May 27, 2011

Immigrant licenses issue in special session SANTA FE, N.M.: Gov. Susana Martinez plans to ask a special session of the Legislature to stop New Mexico from issuing driver's licenses to illegal immigrants. Details on page 44

Will immigration policies change after Osama bin Laden? CYRUS D. MEHTA

ne cannot help reflect on how Osama bin Laden so radically changed immigration policy for the worse. After the 9/11 attacks, masterminded by bin Laden, everything concerning immigration was viewed through the prism of national security. Even a garden variety bona fide marriage case between a US citizen and foreign national spouse will only be approved after every aspect of the spouse's information is extensively checked against humongous and error-prone national data bases. While Bin Laden may have had his footprints on terrorist attacks even before 9/11, the paradigm shift occurred only after that day when planes spectacularly and tragically crashed into the twin towers, the Pentagon and in a field in Pennsylvania while on its way to a more sinister mission. Just a few days before, on September 6, 2001, a compromise was reached between the Senate and the House (the Senate had earlier passed its version) to extend the Section

245(i) provision to April 30, 2002, which would have allowed those unlawfully in the US to adjust status, albeit under more limited terms. After the Bin Laden inspired terrorist attacks of September 11, the Section 245(i) extension never saw the light of day. To come to think of it, we may have had Comprehensive Immigration Reform a long time ago if Bin Laden never

an unspecified "additional reasonable time" before charging the person with an offense. In the post 9/11 sweep, immigrants from mainly Muslim countries were detained and deported in secret. Although they were detained because of immigration violations, it was under the pretext of investigating them for suspected links to terrorism. In the

Even a garden variety bona fide marriage case between a US citizen and foreign national spouse will only be approved after every aspect of the spouse's information is extensively checked against humongous and error-prone national data bases inspired the attacks on 9/11. Instead, the Executive under Attorney General Ashcroft tweaked the rules to make it easier to detain immigrants. The expanded regulation, which took effect on September 20, 2001, authorized the then INS to hold any noncitizen in custody for 48 hours or

end, the 1000+ immigrants who were detained and deported in secret were not charged or convicted of terrorism. The Bush Administration then implemented Special Registration, which applied to males from 26 countries, 25 of which had significant Islamic populations. Dutifully, 85,000

people lined up to register, thinking that they should cooperate with the government. 13,000 men who were found to have immigration violations, many of whom may have been on the path to getting green cards, were placed in deportation proceedings. Those who failed to register during the filing window continue to be affected even today, and may be unable to apply for an immigration benefit even through marriage to a US citizen. The INS was dismantled and folded into the Department of Homeland Security bureaucracy. A new agency within DHS, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) came into being, which continues to expand and deport immigrants with even greater zeal under the Obama administration, disregarding its inherent power to favorably exercise discretion (which it had no compunctions in exercising unfavorably to arrest and deport immigrants after 9/11). Several efforts to achieve CIR in Congress have failed. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 44

Georgia Gov. signs immigration bill into law ATLANTA: Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal, calling it ``a rather historic moment,'' has signed a bill that cracks down on illegal immigration in the state by increasing some enforcement powers and requiring many employers to check the immigration status of new hires. ``While I believe immigration is an issue that can ideally be identified and addressed and should be addressed at the federal level, this legislation I believe is a responsible step forward in the absence of federal action,'' Deal told reporters who crowded elbow-to-elbow into his office for the signing. The new law the subject of heated debate in the Legislature shares some similarities to a controversial law enacted last year in Arizona and another enacted this year in Utah. Part or all of those two laws have been blocked by federal judges, and opponents

have said they'll sue to try to block Georgia's law. It authorizes law enforcement officers to check the immigration status of certain suspects and to detain them if they are in the country illegally. It penalizes people who knowingly transport or har-

moving outside to join another several dozen on the sidewalk outside the Capitol for an impromptu rally. They are planning a town hall meeting and are also pulling together plans for a summer of action, including a work stoppage on July 1, the day most

Opponents of the measure say it could lead to racial profiling and could harm the state's economy, while supporters say it's necessary because illegal immigrants are a drain on Georgia's resources bor illegal immigrants and makes it a felony to present false documents or information when applying for a job. A group of about 20 protesters, their arms linked to form a human chain, stood outside the governor's office after the signing chanting ``Shame on you'' and ``We won't leave'' before

parts of the law are set to take effect, and a march in Atlanta the following day. ``HB 87 has been signed, but our work continues,'' Lisa Adler of Amnesty International told the crowd gathered outside the Capitol. A requirement for private employers to use a federal database

called E-Verify to check the immigration status of new hires is set to be phased in, with all employers with more than 10 employees required to comply by July 2013. Opponents of the measure say it could lead to racial profiling and could harm the state's economy, while supporters say it's necessary because illegal immigrants are a drain on Georgia's resources. Rep. Matt Ramsey, R-Peachtree City, who joined the governor at the signing, said getting the bill through the Legislature was ``one of the longest, toughest debates that I've ever been a part of.'' ``This is a good day for Georgia taxpayers and that is exactly who we're standing here on behalf of today,'' he said. Deal said he doesn't believe convention organizers and individuals will boycott the state as a result of the law. -AP

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May 27, 2011

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ICE announces expanded list of degree programs India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) last week published an expanded list of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) degree programs that qualify eligible graduates on student visas for an Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension -an important step forward in the Obama administration's continued commitment to fixing the country's broken immigration system and expanding access to the pool of talented high skilled graduates in the science and technology fields. Under the OPT program, foreign students who graduate from US colleges and universities are able to remain in the US and receive training through work ex-

The announcement follows President Obama's recent remarks in El Paso, Texas, where he reiterated his strong support for new policies that embrace talented students from other countries perience for up to 12 months. Students who graduate with one of the newly-expanded STEM degrees can remain for an additional 17 months on an OPT STEM extension. The announcement follows President Obama's recent remarks in El Paso, Texas, where he reiter-

ated his strong support for new policies that embrace talented students from other countries, who enrich the nation by working in science and technology jobs and fueling innovation in their chosen fields here in the United States, as a part of comprehensive reform. By expanding the list of STEM degrees to include such fields as Neuroscience, Medical Informatics, Pharmaceutics and Drug Design, Mathematics and Computer Science, the Obama administration is helping to address shortages in certain high tech sectors of talented scientists and technology experts-permitting highly skilled foreign graduates who wish to work in their field of study upon graduation and extend their post-graduate training in the United States.

SC lawmakers advance anti-illegal immigration bill COLUMBIA, SC: A bill requiring officers in South Carolina to check the legal status of someone they suspect is in the country illegally advanced over arguments that it would encourage racial profiling and invite criminals to prey on people too afraid to contact authorities. A House Judiciary panel voted 3-2 to advance the bill to the full committee. The subcommittee also added penalties of up to $50,000 for businesses that are repeatedly caught not checking their new hires' status or knowingly hiring illegal immigrants, and then refuse to comply with a temporary shut-down order. The director of the state's labor agency requested the changes to strengthen the state's 2008 antiillegal immigration law, which began applying to all businesses last year. "It gives me the ability to actually do something to them," director Catherine Templeton said. With just three weeks left in the legislative session, House Republicans are on a tight schedule to get the bill into law this year. As the meeting began, House Judiciary Chairman Jim Harrison asked supporters to limit their testimony so the panel could get to a vote, the outcome of which was already known. The measure requires that the status check follow a traffic stop or arrest for something else. Un-

like a law passed in Arizona last year, South Carolina's proposal would not hold someone based on suspicion. The bill says the officer must call Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and if there's no response, process the suspect normally. It also creates a new police unit to enforce the state's immigration laws. Linda Rouvet of Charleston testified that her only son was killed by an illegal immigrant in a

Rep. James Smith, D-Columbia, called it the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;rapist, wife-beater protection actâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; that will criminalize people June 2008 hit-and-run. Another woman from North Charleston testified that an illegal immigrant tried to rape her in April 2010, and could get out on parole as early as this summer. She was incensed that he was allowed to plea to a lower charge and be labeled as non-violent. "We already have criminals," said Roan Garcia-Quintana, who heads an organization called Americans Have Had Enough. "We don't need to import them." Amanda Elias Vargas, a citizen, countered that suggesting all illegal immigrants are violent criminals is akin to blaming all South Carolinians for Susan

Smith killing her two boys in 1994. "These kinds of conclusions are illogical," she said. Victims' advocates said they fear the law will make immigrants too scared to report crimes against themselves or others, or to serve as a witness. Rep. James Smith, D-Columbia, called it the "rapist, wifebeater protection act" that will criminalize people who aren't criminals. Supporters of the bill want to stop people from crossing the border into the U.S., and that's not something South Carolina can do, he said. "It's open season on undocumented immigrants," he said. But Sheri Irwin of Charleston argued that's a good reason to pass the bill, so immigrants don't come here illegally. "I'm tired of these excuses," she said. "It's about the sovereignty of our country." Supporters point out the bill specifically bars racial profiling, but opponents say that's a joke. Gregory Torrales, a Columbia insurance agent, said police cars recently surrounded his vehicle outside a Greenwood restaurant and demanded to see his identification. "I had never been that humiliated in my life," said the native of Puerto Rico. "Once the officer recognized I was an American citizen, he apologized profusely. But those are the situations this bill creates." -AP

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Immigrant licenses issue Hispanic senators brace for in special session SANTA FE, N.M.: Gov. Susana Martinez plans to ask a special session of the Legislature to stop New Mexico from issuing driver's licenses to illegal immigrants. The Republican governor said she will put the politically charged issue on the agenda of a special session this fall when lawmakers are to consider redistricting plans. The governor pushed unsuccessfully to end the immigrant licensing policy during the Legislature's 60-day session,

which ended in March. The House approved her proposal but it failed in the Senate. A 2003 law enacted during former Democratic Gov. Bill Richardson's administration allows driver's licenses to be issued to foreign nationals, including illegal immigrants. Martinez also said her administration wants charges brought against an Albuquerque notary for allegedly forging documents for immigrants to obtain driver's licenses. -AP

Scholarship bill raises big immigration questions SPRINGFIELD, Ill.: Many Illinois legislators say offering private college scholarships to immigrants would make a bad situation better when it comes to illegal immigration. The bill would let children of immigrants get scholarships and invest in the state college savings program. It would be open to legal and illegal immigrants. The Senate approved the Illi-

nois Dream Act 45-11. The bill now heads to the House. Critics say it encourages illegal immigration and takes spots in state universities from legal residents. But lawmakers, including some Republicans, say educational opportunities help Illinois. They say illegal immigrants are a fact of life and should have access to college.-AP

immigration bill talks

AUSTIN, Texas: Hispanic lawmakers in the Texas Senate are bracing for a bitter fight over one of the session's flashpoint immigration issues: the so-called sanctuary cities bill that one legislator called a "hate-mongering" and racist measure. The bill would give most police officers the right to question detained people about their immigration status, and prohibit cities from adopting policies that ban the practice. None of Texas' major cities claim to be sanctuary cities, but many police departments discourage their officers from asking about immigration status. Supporters, including Republican Gov. Rick Perry, say the bill is needed to stop crime committed by illegal immigrants. Critics say it would lead to racial profiling and allow police to harass Latinos. A Senate hearing on the bill is scheduled in the Committee on Transportation and Homeland Security. Hispanic lawmakers in the Senate, all of them Democrats, predict that a floor vote sometime in the next few days could be one of the chamber's most divisive and emotional in recent memory. "Why don't they just have a law to bring out the German Shepherds, bring out the fire hose," said Sen. Mario Gallegos of Hous-

ton. "Let's go back to the Jim Crow days. Why don't they just put that in there? Let's go. Let's get it on. That sanctuary cities bill is the most hate-mongering, racial bill that I've ever seen out there." Perry spokeswoman Katherine Cesinger said the bill only gives police the option to ask about immigration status.

Sen. Jose Rodriguez of El Paso, worked alongside illegal immigrant farm workers while growing up and used to shout warnings when border patrol agents were spotted "Without that discretion, they don't have the tools to do their jobs effectively and to keep our communities safe from those who would do us harm," Cesinger said. Sen. Leticia Van de Putte of San Antonio, leader of the Senate Democrats, says several Hispanic lawmakers have family histories that stir up strong emotions about the bill: Van de Putte's grandmother fled

a revolution in Mexico as a child and never became a U.S. citizen. U.S.-born Sen. Juan "Chuy" Hinojosa was 5 when he and his mother, an illegal immigrant from Mexico, were picked up by the border patrol in a tomato field, driven across the border and left there. They lived in a small room off the back of a bar for a year in Reynosa, Mexico. "It's something I'll never forget, being placed in the paddy wagon," Hinojosa said. Sen. Jose Rodriguez of El Paso, worked alongside illegal immigrant farm workers while growing up and used to shout warnings when border patrol agents were spotted. Rep. Ana Hernandez Luna of Houston gave an emotional speech on the House floor this month about how she and her family lived in fear they would be found out and deported before she became a U.S. citizen at age 18. Hinojosa said he could be a target for an immigration check if stopped by police. "I was born and raised in this country. I pledge allegiance to this country. I graduated from school, law school, volunteered for the Marine Corps and fought in Vietnam," Hinojosa said. "This is such an insult to Hispanics, not only in this state but this country." -AP

Will immigration policies change after Osama bin Laden? Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 42

The last effort to pass the DREAM Act in December 2010 also failed. Even business immigration, which can spur growth and more jobs, has gotten bogged down because of national security concerns. An entrepreneur finds it next to impossible to obtain a visa for the purpose of establishing a branch of his foreign business in the US. This branch can potentially create more em-

ployment for US workers, but national security concerns trump job creation when we most need it. Various states are competing with each other to pass laws that will punish suspected immigrants who are not in lawful status. There are admittedly other forces also at work. The sluggish economy, along with joblessness, can also serve as a disincentive for immigration reform, along with nativist backlash. But the main bogeyman has been national security, largely as a result of the trauma caused by the 9/11 attacks. Surely, the danger is not over. New members of Al Qaida can rise and retaliate against the US. But there is no one with the same mythical status as Osama bin Laden, who was able to perpetuate it by evading capture or death. His death, if it makes the world more safe, should lessen the trauma in the days, months and years to come.

Can we hope for more sensible bi-partisan immigration reform, that will lead to economic growth and more prosperity as Michael Bloomberg suggested in the Wall Street Journal on May 1, 2011? Can we revert to our old values of not being fearful and embrace immigrants because of all the wonderful benefits they bring to the US? Can we restore due process because the erosion of the rights of immigrants ultimately result in the loss of rights for all? Can we overcome the fear mongering of rabidly nativist anti-immigration organizations through a more positive message that believes in the dignity of all persons including the immigrant? There may be a sliver of a chance for all this to happen especially since Osama bin Laden is no more. * Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com

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Datebook

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May 27, 2011

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NEW YORK

ILLINOIS

Upcoming

Sat May 28

Fri May 27

NEW JERSEY

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Upcoming

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Upcoming

• Empire Saturdays at NYC Hottest Hotel • Milwaukee Mega Concert with & Nindy Kaur Venue: Sharon Lynne Wilson center for Arts, (Inside Rooftop with Scenic Views of NYC

Sat May 28

Fri May 27

Sat May 28

• Gujarati Matrimony for Tri State

• Sri Shirdi Sai Baba Satsang

• Hema Wellness Program

Venue: Empire Hotel Rooftop, 44 West 63rd Street, New York Time: 10pm Contact: 212-802-8268

Venue: Quality Inn or crown plaza, Morrestown, New Jersey Time: 10am Contact: 215-699-6501

Venue: Sons of Italy, 155 Clay Street, Weed, CA Time: 6pm to 9pm Contact: 512-750-0045

Venue: Dancing Shiva Yoga and Ayurveda Center, 7466 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles Contact: 866-436-5621

Sun May 29

Sat May 28

• Second Annual Punjabi American Miss & Mr. Punjabi American Talent Contest

• Rahat Fateh Ali Khan Live in Los Angeles

Fri June 10 • Pune Highway Venue: Roy Arias Studios and Theatres, 300 W 43rd St # 506, New York Time: 8pm to 5pm Contact: 212-594-3685

Sat Oct 8 • Rhythm For Relief Venue: Haven NYC, 244 East 51st St, NY Time: 6pm Contact: 347-307-1378

Mitchell Park), 19805 W. Capitol Dr, Brookfield, Wisconsin Time: 8pm Contact: 414-578-7584

Sat June 11 • SUR SANDHYA- Musical Night Venue: Metropolitan Asian Family Services, 1032 E. Ogden Avenue, Naperville, Illinois Time: 6pm to 11pm Contact: (630)705-1208

Sat June 11 Rajatotsava Cultural Programs @HTGC Venue: The Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago, 10915 lemont Road, Lemont, Illinois Time: 3pm to 9pm Contact: 630-972-0300

Sat June 4 • Raag Rang Presents an evening of Music and Dance Venue: Balaji Temple Auditorium (HTCS), 1075 Route 202/206, Bridgewater, NJ Time: 4pm to 7pm Contact: 908-429-1120

Sat June 11 • BasementBollywood Night Venue: Fire N Ice, 583 Fords Ave, Fords, NJ Time: 9pm to 2am Contact: (732) 734-1364

Venue: Yuba Sutter Fairgrounds, Yuba City, CA Time: 9:30am Contact: 707-290-5700 Highlights: This is a talent contest and to promote understanding of Punjabi American Heritage. It is not a beauty contest. Winner will get $500 scholarship and runners-up $250 in both male and female category.

Fri June 3

Venue: Terrace Theater, 300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, California Time: 7pm Contact: 510-610-0750

Fri June 3 • Beyondancing-dancing for a cause Venue: Thousand Oaks, Thousand Oaks, California Contact: 818-932-9404

• San Francisco Ethnic Dance Festival

WASHINGTON DC

Upcoming

Venue: Zellerbach Hall, 4800, 101 Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley, California Contact: 415-474-3914

Fri June 10

Mon July 4

• Warrior Formal

• Rathyatra, Festival of India

Venue: CSU Stanislaus Main Dining Hall, One University Circle, Turlock, California Time: 6:30pm Contact: 209-535-3468

Venue: National Mall (in front of Air & Space Museum), Washington, DC Time: 10:30am to 9pm Contact: 301-299-2100

Sun May 29 • Baltimore Rathyatra, Festival of India Venue: Baltimore Inner Harbor, Pratt Street and Light Street, Baltimore, Maryland, WDC Time: 12:15pm to 17pm Contact: 443-762-2524

Fri June 24 • Art of living course Venue: Art of Living Ashburn center,Virginia, 43618,Millay Court, Ashburn, Virginia Time: 6:30pm to 9:30pm Contact: 703-723-8181

Sat June 18

Sun June 5 • SALDEF's 15th Anniversary Celebration Venue: Diamond Bar Center, 1600 Grand Avenue, Diamond Bar, CA Time: 5:30pm to 8:30pm Contact: 714-504-5264 & 818-416-2952

Sun July 17

• Sonu Nigaam Live In Concert

• Indian Cruise to Mexico from Long Beach

Venue: San Jose State University, Event Center, 290 south 7th street, San Jose, California Time: 8pm Contact: 408-368-6865

Venue: Carnival Splendor, 231 Windsor Way, Long Beach, California Time: 4:30pm Contact: 858-925-7806

Sat Nov 12 • Hello Namaste Salaam Satsriakal Masti Venue: Chandni Restaurant, 5748 Mowry School Rd, Balentine Plaza, across Hilton Hotel, Newark, CA 94560 Time: 7pm Contact: 510-299-1138

Mon Aug 1 • Yogalicious! Venue: Art of Living Center Los Angeles, 948 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, California Time: 6:30pm to 9pm Contact: 310-820-9429

May 27, 2011

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Philosophy

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Page Sponsored by Sahanis RAMESH S BALSEKAR

he essential understanding is that we are all objects, perceived, conceived and interpreted by one another. The perceiver considers himself the subject of all 'others' as objects. But as a matter of fact, we are mere appearances in the consciousness of the one who perceives us. If it is a single source of perceiving, it is God or Universal Consciousness perceiving through multiple mind-body organisms, which are merely shadows. We are not real entities. If we can understand this situation and continue to live our double lives in duality, then we will not make the mistake of identifying ourselves with the body-mind organisms. These latter are mere computerised robots: there is no substantial essence in them. We can live in duality, but not indulge in dualism. If we spring out of the concept of "time', then we break the chain of bondage. We are now in Infinite Time all together with the Source as "I": Subjective Presence, objective absence. We are all part of sole Subjectivity with not the slightest evidence of any objects. In this flash of wisdom, we realise that there has never been a seeker.

SWAMI BRAHMANANDA

ractice a little Japa and meditation every day. Never stop for a single day. The mind is like a restless child, it wants to runaway. You must bring it back again and again and apply it to the meditation on the Lord. Go on this way for two or three years, and then an inexpressible joy will fill your mind. Meditation and Japa appear dry in the beginning. But still you must engage the mind in the contemplation of the Deity, like swallowing a bitter medicine. Slowly spiritual joy will grow in you. People work so hard to pass an examination! To realize God is even easier than that. Only let them call on Him with a calm, cheerful heart. Initiation into a Mantra helps concentration of mind, otherwise your mind will change and fluctuate; today you will like Kaliform, tomorrow the Hari-form, and the next day perhaps the formless aspect of God. And thus your mind will not be concentrated on any one. Pranayama and other Yogic practices are not suitable to the present times and conditions. One must observe complete Brahmacharya in order to practice them. One's food must be absolutely pure, Sattvika, and one must be guided by an expert teacher. Practice is the means of concentrating the mind. Pranayama,

There has never been a doer. This is the breakthrough into nonduality! We have now dis-identified ourselves with an entity, which was supposed to possess volition. Now for the remaining years of our life spans we still have to identity ourselves with the mind-body organisms without volition in order to live and function in the world. This is accord-

Whatever arises (anger or fear etc) is not identified by the sage, as he has already realised that there is no individual doer in his body. It is only the body-mind that is concerned with the happening. The sage merely witnesses every happening without feeling responsible as he is not a doer, and therefore he is not obliged to do anything about it. The sage knows that

ject in the totality of manifestation. He has no volition and has no capacity to know the Cosmic Law. In order for him to selfrealise, he has to totally surrender himself and all his attributes to God or the Universal Consciousness: 'they will be done'. How does a sage live his life? He doesn't. Life happens to him. He goes through his routine

Spring out of 'time' to break the chain of bondage Ramesh S Balsekar

The sage merely witnesses every happening without feeling responsible as he is not a doer, and therefore he is not obliged to do anything about it

ing to Ramana Maharshi "like the remnants of a burnt rope." What is the difference between the sage and the ordinary person? Enlightenment is disassociating the entity from dualism but not from duality, for duality is where he lives. The sage looks at what arises in the mind as a reaction of the brain to any happening in life as an event with which he is not concerned.

whatever-is in the moment is exactly what is supposed to be according to Cosmic Law. The ordinary person is convinced that he is responsible for whatever situation he is in. If he is successful, it is because he has always done whatever was necessary in the existing situation. If he failed it is because others have conspired against him. The ordinary person is a created ob-

chores as a witness. He witnesses his reactions when reading the newspapers and watching the television. He witnesses life happening through his particular body-mind organism and witnesses the various emotions arising when coming in contact with other body-mind organisms. The 94th birth anniversary of Ramesh Baleskar was celebrated on May 25

breath-control, is also one of the means. But it is not safe for a householder; if one is not continent, one falls ill. Moreover, one must have nutritious food, a fine place, and pure air. In order to have meditation and concentration, you must practice in solitude. The more you will try, the more you will achieve. Wherever you find condition favorable, say if there is a fine serenity, sit

This apparent universe, which you see, is within the domain of the mind. The mind is the author, the mind has conjured it up. It cannot go beyond its own domain. Behind the mind, of which we are aware, is a subtle spiritual mind, existing in a seed form. Through contemplation, prayer, and Japa this mind develops, and with its unfoldment a new vision opens. This subtle mind also cannot

you can impress upon it the joy and fullness of life in the spirit and the folly of worldly attachments, then your mind will devotee itself more and more to God. Everyone must have an ideal firmly established in his life. This ideal must never be lowered. The supreme ideal of human life is to know God. The Guru leads the disciple through different stages until he

Bring the runaway mind back to meditation Swami Brahmananda

down and meditate. God is with form and is also formless and He is also above form and formlessness. What does Vedanta mean by saying that "Brahman is true and the world is false"? That the world as we see it now is false. The world vanishes in Samadhi, but you feel that you are experiencing a great joy. There is a spiritual eye of wisdom between the two eyebrows. When its vision opens, a fountain of joy is released. The whole universe is seen to be merged in bliss.

Meditation and Japa appear dry in the beginning. But still you must engage the mind in the contemplation of the Deity, like swallowing a bitter medicine reach God, the supreme Atman. But it leads you near to Him. At this stage, the world loses all its charm for the aspirant. He remains absorbed n the consciousness of God. Next comes Samadhi. The experience of Samadhi is indescribable - beyond is and is not. In this blessed experience there is neither happiness nor misery, neither light nor darkness. All is infinite Being, inexpressible. The mind is susceptible to suggestions. It learns whatever you teach it. If through discrimination

leaves him with the Lord. But there is no greater Guru than your own mind. When the mind has been purified through prayer and contemplation, it will direct you from within. Even in your daily duties this Guru will guide you. The way of steadying and purifying the mind is to retire into solitude, control all cravings, and engage yourself in contemplation and meditation. The more you occupy the mind with holy thoughts, the greater will be your spiritual unfoldment.

I am only acting as a mirror to your life, in which you can see yourself as you are; then you can throw away the mirror; the mirror is not important. -J. Krishnamurti Self is the opaque veil that hides the Face of God from us. It can be removed only in spiritual experience, never by mere instruction. -A. W. Tozer The ultimate Truth is beyond words. Doctrines are words. They're not the Way. The Way is wordless. Words are illusions. Don't cling to appearances, and you'll break through all barriers. -Bodhidharma When you give it all up, you get it all. You end up losing absolutely nothing, other than some well cherished opinions and ideas. -Dennis Genpo Merzel Remember: if you can cease all restless activity, your integral nature will appear. -Hua Hu Ching Look at this window: it is nothing but a hole in the wall, but because of it the whole room is full of light. So when the faculties are empty, the heart is full of light. -Chuang Tzu

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Anna Hazare & his times PR CHARI

scar Wilde has one his characters declare in Lady Windermere's Fan, "I can resist anything but temptation." The temptation to enter the debate on the Anna Hazare controversy is too great to resist despite several weeks having elapsed since it started. In the meantime, the chasm between the protagonists of Anna Hazare's anti-corruption campaign and those holding it to be unconstitutional and undemocratic has widened. The latter argue that the correct forum for debating the Lokpal Bill is Parliament. Yielding to public agitations, however laudable their objectives, will establish an unhealthy precedent. On the other hand, the protagonists point out that Parliament is dysfunctional and will not act until it is compelled. The rapid enlargement of this agitation to acquire an all-India character reveals that public corruption has become so pervasive in India as to evoke national exasperation. Anna Hazare is a beacon of hope now. All this has been reported ad nauseum in different forums. The dirty tricks department has been unleashed against Anna Hazare's supporters, which is par for the course. The corrupt are unlikely to yield their hard-earned ill-gotten gains. So, what remains to be said at this juncture that is either new or worth saying? Three issues need, additionally, to be illumined. First, what do Anna Hazare's campaign for the Lokpal Bill and the huge support received for his anti-corruption campaign inform us about the Indian polity? Transparency International accords India a high rank on its corruption index, which is based on public perceptions. Clearly, there is widespread disgust in the people with public corruption in India. But, there are many who are unconcerned and unaffected. Who are they? They are identifiable as the growing minority with the 'influence' or 'clout' to wield power and patronage, which insulates them from the tentacles of the corruption network. The silent majority, however, suffers its exactions whenever the citizen has to deal with public authority. And, public authority is both insidious and all-encompassing in India with its unique system of over-legislation but under-regulation of every conceivable human activity. Clearly, public corruption is not unknown in settled democracies like Japan and the US. But, their difference with India arises because corruption in these countries occurs at the higher levels of

political patronage and dispensations of large commercial favors. Exactions at lower levels are practically unknown, which is a peculiarly Third World phenomenon China and Russia are no exceptions. But, this is especially true of India. Willy-nilly the citizen is forced to interface with authority in district and subordinate offices, police stations, civic facilities, registration offices, educational or health institutions and so on. And, as a prominent political leader keeps saying, "Every time a citizen enters an office, he will only come out after being 'stung'." The limited point being made here is that Anna Hazare has lit a spark that has grown into a prairie fire. But, that prairie fire would not have started and spread unless the grass was dry and combustible. Second, is Anna Hazare's crusade unique? Or, has all this happened before with varying degrees of success? Protagonists have

The limited point being made here is that Anna Hazare has lit a spark that has grown into a prairie fire. But, that prairie fire would not have started and spread unless the grass was dry and combustible given his campaign a grand remit by comparing it to the Quit India movement, an obvious exaggeration. It has also been compared more routinely with the JP movement against misgovernment and corruption in the early seventies; it gave Indira Gandhi the excuse to impose her infamous Emergency when the Allahabad High Court set aside her election. It has also been compared to the VP Singh-blessed Mandal agitation in favor of greater reservations, which led to the tragic self-immolation of many young persons. What did these major agitations achieve? One can argue that the JP movement catalyzed the break-up of the Congress party and the emergence of regional parties that are now competing for power at the Centre and in the States. The Mandal agitation led to a further splintering of political parties, with the politics of caste getting firmly embedded in the na-

tional polity. In other words, these public agitations severely challenged the basic structure of the Indian democracy. Whether this was good or bad for India would be demanding a value judgment regarding an essentially political phenomenon. Third, can it be said that Anna Hazare's movement is unconstitutional and undemocratic? After all, the UPA government at the Centre and those ruled by different political parties in the States were duly elected. No doubt, the elections lack total credibility. They are visibly vitiated by money and muscle power, liquor and cash are used to buy votes; and, once in office, the elected representatives are too busy with other activities to care about their constituencies. All this is true. But, does it justify forcing a duly elected government to act in a pre-determined way by exercising 'people's power'? Here, one might recollect the Congress-led agitation in 1959 against the Namboodiripad government in Kerala. It was directed by one Mannath Padmanabhan against its agrarian and educational policies. Indira Gandhi, then Congress President, had actively inspired this agitation. After it reached suitable proportions, Nehru decided to dismiss the State government; an action which his biographer Sarvepalli Gopal holds "tarnished Nehru's reputation for ethical behavior." Now, the Congress party finds Anna Hazare's public agitation to be unconstitutional and undemocratic! What is the greatest danger confronting the Anna Hazare 'revolution' in the light of these examples? Undoubtedly, it arises from his supporters getting embroiled in the minor skirmishes that will be launched by the counterrevolutionaries to deflect their attention from the main issue of public corruption. But, an equal danger arises from their getting too deeply embroiled in the minutiae - the phrases and punctuation marks of the Lokpal Bill. Hopefully, the revolutionaries will fight the dragon of public corruption with appropriate strategies. Like launching public campaigns giving details of malfeasance against specific offices and officers. And, holding dharnas before these offices and officers to highlight their misdoings. A functioning anarchy with a million mutinies is the best prescription for reforming a dysfunctional democracy. The writer is Visiting Professor, IPCS

India Post Sharif demands

t has been sometime since a sane voice came out of Pakistan. Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif who was not allowed to complete either of his two stints in office, being ousted by the military in the second instance, has taken on the same military in his latest remarks. He sought to puncture Pakistan's biggest myth by saying Islamabad must stop treating New Delhi as its "biggest enemy". In support of his assessment that India poses no threat to Pakistan he revealed that he was stunned by then Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's remarks in 1999 that the Kashmir issue could be resolved. Vajpayee had proposed back channel diplomacy to resolve longstanding issues and the process was about to start when the "Kargil misadventure dealt a severe blow to our efforts", he said. This myth of existential threat from India sustains Pakistan military's war machine which keeps going from strength to strength in spite of the country's poor economy. Even the civilian government is not aware how the nuclear stockpile keeps growing. If the bugbear of India is taken away, how will the military siphon off the money? Sharif made a few more relevant points which are not often discussed in Pakistan. He demanded that the budgets of the military and the spy agency ISI be placed before Parliament for scrutiny in line with the practice in other democracies. He pressed for a plan for independent commission to investigate the killing of al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden in a US raid on May 2 as the first step towards making Parliament a sovereign body. Whether it will be instituted soon or whether it will be allowed to function or never submit its findings are different questions altogether. Sharif was scathing in his comments on the intelligence agency which, he said, should have no role in politics. "The intelligences agencies should not divide and strengthen political parties. They should not make new alliances. The agencies should not run a parallel system," he said. These facts have never been so boldly stated before. News columnists have been making such comments but it is for the first time that such views have been aired by a powerful political personality. Will it make for a difference in the state of Pakistan? The de facto ruler of Pakistan, General Ashfaq Parvaz Kayani has promptly declared that the army has no intention of giving up either control of intelligence agencies or the country's foreign policy, especially with regard to India, the US and Afghanistan. But he has also sought a meeting with Sharif to explain to him the details about the military's budget. Sharif has declined the offer stating that Parliament was the appropriate forum for a comprehensive briefing on defense spending. Sharif also said one of his biggest regrets was not taming the powerful military when he was Prime Minister in the 1990s. It is because he was no bold enough at that time. He sought to trick General Musharraf by sacking him while he was on the plane to Sri Lanka. If he had openly confronted the then Army Chief telling him he was being replaced, perhaps Musharraf would not have been able to organize a coup against him. Instead it was Musharraf who deposed him and for nine years practiced the subterfuge that is the hallmark of the Pakistani army. Even now Sharif might have to pay for his views. As a blogger from Kolkata remarked: "This guy is inviting trouble... he'll be killed very soon by Pak army outsourced militants... Good luck sweetheart ... u've touched the wrong chord in a wrong place..."

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