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Dr. Romesh Japra

FOG Awards is the buzz in Bay Area!!

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VOL 21, No. 1086

July 10, 2015

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Periodical Postage

DIGITAL INDIA Will do everything possible to make India innovation hub: PM

Lord Bilimoria among 8 NRIs awarded in UK

New US citizens sworn in at Great America Details on page 44

Obama says more to do on health care Details on page 32

Biggest Buddhist monastery in India-Tawang

Details on page 12

Details on page 40

1.5 lakh issued e-visa in 7 months: Panwar

Ghantewala sweet shop downs shutters

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Details on page 51

8-10% growth, anti-poverty needed: Jaitley

CONTENTS Bollywood ---------------------- 30-31

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

Will digitized India benefit the poorest of poor?

Last week’s result

Will India attack in UNSC affect China?

YES 41%

NO 59%

Classifieds ------------------------- 48

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waves at the launch of Digital India Week in New Delhi July 1

NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to do everything possible to make enterprise and innovation easier so that India emerges as an innovation hub and keeps pace with the fast changing world.

"The world is changing, quicker than ever before and we cannot remain oblivious to that. If we don't innovate, if we don't come up with cutting edge products there will be stagnation," he said in a 'Digital Dialogue', and added, "On the part of the government, I assure absolute support."

Community Post -------------- 16-25

Responding to numerous suggestions with regard to digitalization received through the day on a specially-created platform on social media, Modi said, "We are doing everything possible to make enterprise and innovation easier. We have covered substantial ground in the last 14 months and want to do a lot more in the future."

He said his government wants India to emerge as the innovation hub where the next big ideas emerge, driven by the power of technology.

Certified by “CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL Readership 117,765”

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Date Book -------------------------- 47 Edit Page --------------------------- 54 HealthScience Post --------- 32-35 Horoscope ------------------------- 38 Immigration Post ------------- 44-46 Life Style ----------------------- 50-53 Philosophy ------------------------- 49 Publisher’s Diary ------------------ 4 Real Estate -------------------- 36-37 TechBiz Post ------------------- 12-15 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 40-43

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July 10, 2015

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

Publisher’s Diary

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kay, I am declaring this space the unofficial Bobby Jindal Campaign Watch, at least till the end of the primaries, considering of course that he lasts through the cycle.

And I promise I will only express my honest opinion - without being judgmental, that is. So let's see how this goes: Bobby Jindal's avowed Christian faith, pro-gun, anti-abortion, anti-same sex marriage, anti-regulation of greenhouse gases features have already pushed him into an impossible-to-please corner with the liberal left.

Well, it's not easy to survive the agenda of the PC pundits if you have views and values such as Jindal, but this son of immigrants who is as brown as they come, hasn't really done himself a favor by his anti-immigrant utterances.

With his rants about how he hates the idea of hyphenated Americans and how immigrants should learn English, assimilate and find themselves jobs, this Republican presidential hopeful has got himself a premium membership to the Donald Trump-Ann Coulter club.

Of course, it's not like Jindal is in some exclusive club of conservatives. Let's say there are enough Americans who believe in these views. But I wonder if even they would find Jindal's media outreaches appealing.

I was aghast to see his utterly sloppy announcement video in which a hidden camera supposedly captures Jindal breaking his decision to run for President to his children. The utter lack of enthusiasm displayed by the kids in the video is laughable. C'mon, any talk show warm up guy could have held up a sign board out of the frame, prompting the kids to say "Yayy".

And then there's his ridiculous campaign slogan - Tanned. Rested. Ready which offers nothing to potential voters except ascertain his denial of his brown complexion and attempt to wish it away as a tan.

What is sad is that this once bright and promising young politician has become a joke in the social media sphere and slipped into the laugh lines of late night comedians.

My guess is, Bobby Jindal needs an entirely new campaign management team - not to be help him win the Presidential election, but to stop him from embarrassing himself.

Romesh K Japra rkjapra@indiapost.com

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HIGHLIGHTS Bollywood: Rock star She has crooned soft numbers in the past but now actress Shraddha is ready to take her singing passion to another level

Cover Story: Digital India Modi promised to do everything possible to make enterprise & innovation easier so that India emerges as an innovation hub

Community: FOG Awards FOG will celebrate starting Aug 7th to 16th, in Silicon Valley with Global Movie Fest, FOG Awards, Mela and Parade.

New US citizens sworn in 79 of America's newest citizens sworn in during a special naturalization ceremony at Great America Amusement Park

Life style: Kim Kardashian The big reveal from Kim Kardashian's guest turn for San Francisco's revered Commonwealth Club of California?

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Lord Karan Bilimoria Leading NRI entrepreneur Lord Karan Bilimoria has been awarded as the International Indian of the Year for 2014-15

Buddhist monastery: Tawang This monastery is one of the biggest Buddhist monasteries to be found in India.

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Digital India Will do everything possible to make India innovation hub: PM NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to do everything possible to make enterprise and innovation easier so that India emerges as an innovation hub and keeps pace with the fast changing world.

"The world is changing, quicker than ever before and we cannot remain oblivious to that. If we don't innovate, if we don't come up with cutting edge products there will be stagnation," he said in a 'Digital Dialogue', and added, "On the part of the government, I assure absolute support."

Responding to numerous suggestions with regard to digitalization received through the day on a specially-created platform on social media, Modi said, "We are doing everything possible to make enterprise and innovation

easier. We have covered substantial ground in the last 14 months and want to do a lot more in the future."

He said his government wants India to emerge as the innovation hub where the next big ideas emerge, driven by the power of technology.

Exhorting people to keep innovating as "innovation is what will help us grow faster", the Prime Minister particularly encouraged the start-ups, saying they are "the engines of exponential growth, manifesting the power of innovation".

He said that several big companies of today are start-ups of yesterday. "They were born with a spirit of enterprise and adventure kept alive due to hard work and perseverance and today have

Aadhaar linked direct benefit transfer scheme NEW DELHI: Government is mulling restarting DBT scheme to directly transfer money into Aadhhar-linked bank accounts with a view to plug leakages by weeding out ghostbeneficiaries.

"Government may restart the Aadhaar-linked direct benefit transfer (DBT) scheme as it has initiated the exercise to evaluate the efficacy of the scheme," a source said.

Planning Commission and Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), which implements the A a d h h a r project, are jointly preparing a report on the Aadhaarlink DBT scheme.

The source said the UIDAI and the Commission's senior officials are visiting 300 districts spread across the country to study the impact of the Aadhhar-based scheme.

The Commission has been asked to submit the report on the Aadhaar based DBT in these 300 districts before August 15, he added.

Earlier on January 30, the UPA government had suspended the ambitious direct benefit transfer

for LPG (DBTL) scheme, where consumers in 289 districts in 18 states got cash of Rs 435 per month in their bank accounts for purchasing cooking gas at market rate.

The DBTL scheme was put on hold due to complaints that many were not getting the benefit in absence of either an Aadhaar card or a bank account linked Aadhaar.

The working of the UIDAI had

become shining beacons of innovation," he noted.

To a question on challenges to the road map of Digital India, Modi said, "When we have taken up such an ambitious initiative and that too at such a large scale, there will be several challenges.

But, we should neither underestimate these challenges nor should we get overwhelmed by them. We must be laser-focused on our Mission and that is what we are doing."

Talking about the challenges, he mentioned access and afford-

governance.

"A Digital-First model of governance will not only bring in efficiency and transparency but also will also dramatically reduce corruption," he said.

One more challenge is innovation and keeping pace with the latest in technology, Modi said.

"Everyday, there are new innovations that is making some pieces of technology obsolete.

It is in this fast-changing technology environment that we must realize the Digital India goals," he added. -PTI

'Digital India' initiative to take books, certificates & IDs online

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roblems like not being able to locate an old Class X cer tificate needed to renew a passport or for some other official work may get sorted out easily. Even scholarship opportunities in India will be on one platform which will ensure easy application process and disbursement, but most importantly no missing out on opportunities.

From July 2015, Government of India is planning to launch under 'Digital India' a number of ambitious projects like eBasta on which all NCERT text books as well as some State Boards' text-

books will be available online for downloading from an app free of cost. Another initiative for Aadhaar card holders will be digital locker-DigiLocker-facility which will enable Indi-

a button. Filling up online forms using the e-sign facility and the

ans to secure their certificates and access them online at the click of

DigiLocker will ensure elimination of usage of fake documents.-PTI

E-filing of Income Tax Returns

Cell phones

N

come under scrutiny of the Supreme Court, which in an interim order, had observed that the identification number cannot be made mandatory for availing of benefits of the government's subsidy schemes.

As per experts, government would have to seek apex court permission to modify earlier interim order for resumption of the Aadhaar-linked direct benefit transfer scheme for making payment of benefits.-PTI

able access as also skills and knowledge.

"We have to empower our citizens with the skills and knowledge to use digital applications and services. We also have to volunteer time and effort to share digital skills so that our fellow citizens who have recently been digitally empowered get to know how to use this powerful medium and are able to get the maximum out of this medium," he added.

Another challenge, he said, is reforming the citizen-government interface and the processes of

ow file all Income Tax Returns online easily! You need not require to take print out of forms, fill them up and submit them at income tax counters anymore. Just sit comfortably at your very own home, use your internet; login at our website; upload Form-16 given by your Employer; fill it up and submit. Its all done! You will get a confirmation when the process gets over. If you have several deductions or corporate returns you may need to consult you CA or Tax Consultant.

S

ocio Economic & Caste Cen sus 2011: A mobile in 2 of every 3 rural homes, a salaried job in 1 out of 10. While only 1 percent of rural homes have landlines.

Airlines & Railways booking

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ll airlines tickets and railways bookings can be booked online throughout India.

Passport process just got faster, easier

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assport issuance process has seen a complete turnaround.

From a complex process which evoked anxiety among passport aspirants, the process has now become much quicker and almost seamless. No waiting in lines or paying any touts.

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3D imagery of India's major cities likely in Google Earth NEW DELHI: 3D imagery of buildings and terrain of India's major cities, including Rashtrapati Bhavan and PMO, could soon be seen in Google Earth with the government contemplating to give permission for uploading pictures of the country's metropolitan areas.

Home Ministry officials recently held a meeting with representatives of Google and the issue was discussed threadbare.

"Discussions are on and we are planning to give permission to Google to put 3D imagery of Indian metropolitan areas in Google Earth," a Home Ministry official said.

If permission is given, apart from Rashtrapati Bhavan and

Prime Minister's Office, which is located in South Block, 3D imag-

‘Pak desperate to disrupt Amarnath Yatra in J&K’ JAMMU: Asserting that the recent incidents of ceasefire violations were aimed at facilitating infiltration from across the border, J&K Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh today said that Pakistan was desperately trying to disrupt the annual Amarnath Yatra in the state.

"The Pakistan side is desperate to attack Amarnath Yatra and Vishno Devio Yatra, in the wake of the tightened security in the state and the tough stand of the Central government," he told reporters here.

While Pakistan army and the ISI are busy in anti-India activities, the intentions of the Pakistan government are also not clear, he said.

Addressing the party workers during a function today, Singh also spoke about the alleged differ-

ences between the PDP-BJP coalition in the state.

The coalition partners in the state have their own separate agendas and the day BJP feels that it has become difficult for the party to continue, it would not spare a moment to pull out of the government.

"Problems do arise as we have our own agenda and our ruling partner (PDP) has a different agenda. The day the party (BJP) feels that it has become difficult to continue (in the coalition), we will not stay in power for one second," he said.

The leader stated that in the past four months since the formation of the state government, BJP has "set a level playing field with the coalition partner and the party would soon start delivering to the people of Jammu". -PTI

ery of other sensitive buildings like North Block, Prime Minister's

US conveyed to India concern over NGOs issue NEW DELHI: The United States is understood to have conveyed its concern over India's crackdown on various NGOs and donors, including US-based Ford Foundation.

US diplomats based in New Delhi met government officials and were believed to have sought clarification on the Home Ministry's action against Ford Foundation and Greenpeace India, following alleged violation of Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA).

Official sources said India's Ambassador to the US Arun Kumar Singh also met Union Home Secretary L C Goyal on July 4 and was said to have conveyed American government's concern.

Ford Foundation and Greenpeace India's parent body Greenpeace International are based in the US. Sources said Ford Foundation has funded a political party and profit-making organisations "illegally", which has resulted in the foreign outfit coming under the Home Ministry scanner and put on the "watch list".

Greenpeace India was allegedly involved in ant-government activities leading to the suspension of its FCRA licence and blocking of bank accounts.

The Home Ministry officials made it clear that all NGOs and donors have to work within the framework of Indian laws and no 'genuine' NGOs will be harassed.

In a recent interview, US Ambassador to India Richard Rahul Verma had said that American officials were having dialogue with Indian officials on the issue of NGOs.-PTI

residence, headquarters of Army, Air Force, Navy could also also be seen in Google Earth.

U n i t e d States, the United Kingdom, China and many countries in the world have already given permission to put 3D imagery of their respective metropolitan areas.

Google Earth is a very popular geolocation software.

In Google Earth 7, the latest version, one can see complete 3D representations of buildings and terrain throughout metropolitan areas.

3D imagery provides an immersive experience as one can explore, just like the view when someone is flying over the city.

As it is zoomed in, buildings and terrain will start to appear in 3D. Once you can see the buildings, pan, zoom, tilt and rotate to explore the 3D environment.

Anyone can view 3D imagery by using Google Earth 7 on the devices like Android - any dual core device running Gingerbread (Android version 2.3) or greater iOS - an iPad 2, iPad 3, or iPhone 4S. -PTI

India''s growth rate likely to cross 8 per cent: Venkaiah Naidu WASHINGTON: India's economy is back on track and the country's growth rate is likely to cross eight per cent in the coming years, Indian Urban Development Minister Venkaiah Naidu has said as he asked US investors to take advantage of the current business-friendly atmosphere.

"Public life in India is undergoing a rapid transformation. The economy is back on track, inflation is under control, and growth rate is likely to cross eight per cent in the coming years," Naidu, 66, said in his interaction with the American industry leaders at a round table organised by the US India Business Council (USIBC) on Wednesday.

Naidu, who is currently on a five-day non-official visit to the US, said the reforms undertaken by the current Indian Government have a human face as social security schemes and affordable housing programmes are being launched.

He also asked investors to take advantage of the business friendly atmosphere in the country, inviting further cooperation in Smart Cities and Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) projects, a USIBC statement said.

Noting that India has prioritised the creation of 100 smart cities - which will incorporate the use of solar energy, rain water harvesting, good sanitation, drinking water and smart public transportation - Naidu explained the recent guidelines for selection

of the cities, financing mechanisms and incentives for private sector participation.

"American enterprise is eager to participate and deepen its commercial dialogue through the 100 Smart Cities initiative launched by Indian Prime Minister Modi and led by Minister Naidu," said Purna Saggurti, Chairman of Global Corporate and Investment Banking at Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, and a member of USIBC's Board of Directors.

Venkaiah Naidu

"In his role as Parliamentarian, investors are confident that under Minister Naidu's leadership the monsoon session of the Parliament will continue progress toward economic and regulatory reforms that are key to India's economic progress," he said.

Expressing optimism in Naidu's vision, USIBC President Mukesh Aghi said, "Flagship programmes such as Smart Cities, AMRUT and Housing for All reflect the Indian government's dedication to innovation and technology while not overlooking the urgent need to provide all citizens with access to basic necessities such as sanitation, water, power and means to earning a livelihood".-PTI

July 10, 2015

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Pak parliamentary panel to discuss Hindu marriage law ISLAMABAD: The minority Hindu community in Pakistan, living without a marriage law since the country was founded in 1947, may get a landmark legislation soon to help them register their marriages.

The Hindus, who constitute 1.6

Nawaz (PML-N), while a separate but similar government bill has been tabled in the parliament by Law Minister Pervaiz Rashid in March, this year.

The two bills will establish rules and regulation for registration of marriage and divorce for

per cent of Pakistan's total population, have been struggling to get a specific law since last 67 years to get their marriages legalised and registered.

Dawn reported that National Assembly Standing Committee on Law, Justice and Human Rights headed by Chaudhary Muhammad Bashir Virk is set to review this week a private member bill, namely Hindu Marriage Act 2014.

The bill was jointly presented in the parliament last year by Ramesh Lal of opposition Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and Darshan of ruling Pakistan Muslim League-

Pakistani Hindu, as presently in the absence of such a law, Hindus in the country do not even have a legal document as proof of marriage.

The private member bills do not have express consent of the government and are rarely passed, while the government bills are moved with the backing of sitting government.

In cases of importance like the proposed Hindu Marriage Act, the private member bill is usually backed by the government or the private member withdraw the bill in favour of the official law after necessary changes.

PPP's Ramesh Lal said that it appeared the government wanted to take credit as there was hardly any difference between the bill moved by him and the government bill.

Lal said he had consulted elders and legal experts of the Hindu community on the draft prepared by the government.

He said he has also consulted former Supreme Court judge late Rana Bhagwandas while preparing the draft of his law.

A major difference between the two bills is the jurisdiction of the law.

The federal government terms the Hindu marriage a provincial subject and the draft of the government bill states that the law will apply only to Islamabad Capital Territory.

On the other hand, the private member bill states that the law will be applicable across the country.

If the government bill is adopted, then the four provinces will make separate laws to deal with marriages of Hindus, thus further delaying the demand of many members of the community as majority of Hindus live in areas other than federal capital.

According to 1998 survey, Pakistan has 21,11,271 Hindus which is 1.6 per cent of the total population. After the parliamentary committee approves the law, it will go to the National Assembly, which should pass it with simple majority to become a law. -PTI

Indian man attacked in apparent hate crime in New Jersey NEW YORK: An elderly Indian-American man was attacked and left bleeding on the road in a New Jersey neighborhood in an apparent bias crime by an assailant who has been taken into custody.

Rohit Patel, 57, sustained serious injuries including broken teeth, stitches on his mouth and forehead when he was knocked down and beaten over the head

mind to see him and actually want to cause him pain?" Patel said his father was walking in the neighborhood when he saw someone getting out of the car that had stopped nearby.

The attacker, identified as Kilgore, followed Patel for less than a minute before knocking him out with a blow to the head.

Patel's son questioned the bail granted to Kilgore, saying, "I don't understand how you can have someone who is continuously committing hate crimes, violent hate crimes, and he?s able to get out the s a m e night."

Rohit Patel. Pic: Newjersey.news12.com With his alleged atby Nyle Kilgore in North tacker out on bail, Patel said he's Brunswick last week. afraid to leave home and so are A report in CBSNew York said many in the local Indian commupolice had taken Kilgore, 24, into nity. custody, charged him with bias inPatel and his wife had just timidation and aggravated assault moved to New Jersey from the and is now out on bail.

United Kingdom in May and are The report cited police as say- now contemplating moving back. ing that the attacker targeted Patel The New York and New Jersey because he is Indian and there areas have a huge population of have been a recent string of bias Indian-origin people. attacks against men of Indian deIn the recent past, the Indianscent in the New Jersey area.

American community has been "My dad is a very fragile, in- the target of a spate of robberies, nocent man who was just on his particularly during the days foldaily walk," said Dipen Patel in the lowing Diwali when the families CBS report. have cash and gold jewelry at "What went through your home. -PTI

PIO couple in UK court for taking kids out of school Media watchdog calls for probe LONDON: An Indian-origin couple in UK has been dragged to court for taking their two children out of school during term time to visit their grandfather who was undergoing surgery in India.

Shahnawaz and Sofiya Patel had put in a request for their two sons' ? Omar, 11, and Eiad, 8 ? studying in a primary school in Preston, north-west England, for an authorised absence to make the trip last December, but the school refused permission.

"We did not want our children to miss out on potentially their only opportunity to see their grandfather in person so we decided to take them," Shahnawaz told 'The Guardian'.

"This was the first ever request made to the school and my children have never had any unauthorised absences. I even asked the school for work to be

taken during our visit, this too was declined," he said.

Since September 2013, local council authorities have to fine families who take children out of school for unauthorised absences to crack down on parents saving

Patel, who works as a paralegal, now intends to fight the case, the newspaper reported costs by booking holidays during school term.

According to government guidelines, children can only be taken out of school during term time following an application to the headteacher and if circumstances are "exceptional".

The Patels, however, were told

their circumstances were "not exceptional" and fined 480 pounds.

Patel eventually offered to pay the accumulated fines but was told by Lancashire County Council that the payment period had expired and that he would have to attend the hearing at Preston Magistrates Court on Wednesday or submit guilty pleas in writing.

Patel, who works as a paralegal, now intends to fight the case, the newspaper reported.

He has written to UK education secretary Nicky Morgan and the Department for Education.

The department responded: "The decision to prosecute a parent under Section 444 of the Education Act 1996 rests with Lancashire County Council whose officers are best placed to assess your family's circumstances and decide upon the most appropriate course of action." -PTI

into death of Indian journalist WASHINGTON: A US-based media watchdog has called for full investigation into the death of TV journalist Akshay Singh while covering the Vyapam scam in M a d h y a Pradesh.

"The Indian government should do its utmost to investigate the death of jourAkshay nalist Akshay Singh in a credible and thorough manner," demanded Committee to Protect Journalist Asia Research Associate Sumit Galhotra.

"Given the recent spike in the

number of journalist deaths in the country, authorities should dedicate their efforts to solving these cases and delivering justice where due," he said in a statement.

Singh, 38, an investigative journalist with a private Hindi news channel, died a mysterious death on Saturday soon Singh after he had interviewed the parents of a girl who was found dead after her name figured in the massive admission and recruitment scandal.

-PTI

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PM holds talks with Uzbek Prez; terror, Afghanistan discussed TASHKENT: India and Uzbekistan today decided to boost ties in key areas of atomic energy, defence and trade during "productive" talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uzbek President Islam Karimov as they also shared concerns over rise in terrorism in their "extended neighbourhood".

hance strategic, economic and energy ties apart from reviewing key regional issues including the situation in war-torn Afghanistan.

Addressing a joint press event with Karimov, Modi said,"I have begun my journey in Uzbekistan underlining its importance for India, not just in this region, but also in Asia.

President Karimov and I discussed various initiatives to further enhance connectivity between India and Uzbekistan."

On their discussions on regional and international issues, including the situation in Afghanistan, Modi said,"We also have shared concerns on the rising threat of extremism and terrorism in our extended

neighbourhood.

"We agreed to intensify security cooperation and exchanges.

The bilateral Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism will meet later this year. We also agreed to strengthen cooperation in defence and cyber security."

He said his discussions with President Karimov were "very productive" and aimed towards further deepening of ties.

Noting that the two countries have built a strategic partnership, Modi said, "This includes expanding economic cooperation, combating terrorism, advancing stability in the region and promoting regional integration."

The two leaders also discussed ways to implement the contract for supply of uranium from mineral-rich Uzbekistan signed last year. The pact was signed for supply of 2,000 metric tonnes of the yellow cake.

They also explored various initiatives to further enhance connectivity between the two countries and in this context, Modi briefed Karimov about the International North South Transport

Student Centre at WU to be named after Ambika Paul

Indian student wins US fellowship for LGBT research

LONDON: The multi-purpose Student Activities Centre, the largest building at the Wolverhampton University Campus, will be named after Ambika Paul, the late daughter of leading NRI industrialist Lord Swraj Paul.

This was announced at an event hosted by Lord Paul last evening at London Zoo - Remem-

LOS ANGELES: An Indian girl student in the US has received a LGBT scholarship from the prestigious California University in Berkely to study how political issues brought new notions of sexual identity in India.

Shakthi Nataraj, who grew up in Chennai has been awarded with 'The Philip Brett LGBT Studies Fellowship' that honours the memory of Philip Brett who is considered a pioneer of lesbian and gay musicology.

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Fellowship will help Nataraj study how political tensions brought new notions of sexual identity in Tamil Nadu.

Nataraj is one of the three students who received 'The Philip Brett LGBT Studies Fellowship', according to the college release.

"The movements taking place in Tamil Nadu right now draw on LGBT rights language, but they also draw on a lot of other histories," said Nataraj, an anthropology PhD student at University of California, Berkeley.

As part of her research, she is examining how Indian courts struggle to reconcile notions of "Indian culture" with transnational human rights commitments, the college release said.

Nataraj has spent time around nonprofits that focused in HIV and gender issues.-PTI

President Karimov and I discussed various initiatives to further enhance connectivity between India and Uzbekistan." "This includes expanding economic cooperation, combating terrorism, advancing stability in the region and promoting regional integration."

After the talks between Modi, who arrived here in the Uzbek capital on the first leg of his eightday visit to Central Asia and Russia, and Karimov, the two countries inked three pacts to boost cooperation between their foreign offices and in the field of culture and tourism.

During the talks, Modi and Karimov discussed ways to en-

bering Ambika.

Ambika died of leukaemia in April 1968 aged just over four years.

During her treatment, her parents - Lord Paul and Lady Aruna Paul - used to bring her to London Zoo to see the animals that she loved most.

Lord Paul donated one million pounds to the Zoo in 1992 to prevent it from closure owing to financial difficulties.

"We will be renaming the Student Activities Centre at our University as Ambika Paul?Building from 2015," Vice Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton Prof Geoff Layer said speaking on the occasion.

India's High Commissioner to the UK Ranjan Mathai said "remembrance is an act of faith" and the way Paul has been marking the occasion was quite "inspiring and it is a great occasion to be here."

He congratulated Paul for the "astonishing number of friends" present to remember and reflect on the occasion. In his brief speech, Paul said, "Ambika is very special" because whatever he is today, he owes it to her.

Thanking the?large number of guests including?High Commissioners, Ambassadors, MPs and Lords, Paul said, "this is the first year since last 21 years, Gordon Brown, former British Prime Minister, and his family could not attend the ceremony as they were in Los Angeles." -PTI

Corridor and proposed that Uzbekistan consider becoming a member. The Prime Minister also sought Uzbek President's support for India joining the Ashgabat

areas of agriculture, information technology and energy.

Noting that the pacts inked today in the field of culture and tour-

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shaking hands with the President of Uzbekistan Islam Karimov the Joint Press Statement, at Kuksaroy Complex, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on July 6

Agreement.

The International North?South Transport Corridor is a ship, rail and road route for moving freight between India, Russia, Iran, Europe and Central Asia while the Ashgabat Agreement is a transit pact established in 2011 between Uzbekistan, Iran, Turkmenistan and Oman. On ways to raise economic engagement between the two countries, Modi said,"I conveyed to him that there is a strong interest in Indian business to invest in Uzbekistan. There is immense potential in a broad range of areas in Uzbekistan.

"I have urged him to make the process and the policies for Indian investments here smoother.

President responded positively to my suggestion."

Modi said President Karimov was also supportive of strengthening ongoing cooperation in the

ism will bring people of the two countries closer, Modi said, "Few countries can match Uzbekistan in nurturing Hindi and Indian culture. Tomorrow, I look forward to meeting a vibrant group of Indologists and Hindi linguists."

Ahead of his talks, Modi presented President Karimov with a specially commissioned reproduction of 'Khamsa-i- Khusrau' by the great 13th century sufi poet Amir Khusrau who was born in Uttar Pradesh and whose father hailed from Uzbekistan.

Written in Persian and profusely decorated and illuminated with various colours, the work is a part of the manuscripts collection of National Museum, Delhi.

"Tomorrow, I will be paying a visit to the Monument of Independence and Humanism and the Memorial of Late Indian Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. -PTI

Violence, terrorism can't solve any prob: Lokesh WASHINGTON: Emphasising that war, violence and terrorism cannot solve any problem, a prominent Jain leader has said that dialogue based on non-violence and unity in diversity can solve all conflicts.

"Violence gives rise to counter violence. Dialogue based on Bhagwan Mahavir philosophy of non-violence and Unity in Diversity can solve all conflicts," Acharya Lokesh Muni said in his address to the convention of Jains Association of North America (JAINA) in Atlanta yesterday.

The four-day 18th biennial

JAINA convention beginning July 2 is being attended by representatives from 70 Jain centers in North America and Jain religious leaders from India.

Observing that unity in diversity is the basis of this great philosophy, Acharya Muni, 54, rued that presently it is divided into different parts.

"It is expected that like America we should develop unity between all four sects of Jainism to bring them under one banner, one flag and one roof and present the Jain religion and principals to the next generation in a scientific way," he said. -PTI

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Sangeet Dhwani 3-Raga Concert Spell-binding!

India Post News Service

MILPITAS: Sangeet Dhwani, a community based organization that promotes the musical heritage of India, hosted its 150th Concert with three theme Raags; Bhairav, Kalingda and Jogiya inviting popular Vocalists and Musicians of San Francisco Bay Area, which attracted as many as 175 music loving audience, at the Milpitas Library Auditorium.

Sangeet Dhwani President, Pradeep Joshi, welcoming the artists and the audience, observed "We are proud to have completed 60 popular Raags in the last Decade with the most proficient artists of Bay Area

Nachiketa with accompanists

and those visiting US from India.

This Concert started with a very popular Bay Area Vocalist Nachiketa Yakkundi, who is the disciple of the legend late Pt. Basavraj Guru of Dharwar, Karnataka (India).

Nachiketa promotes his Guru's traditions one of which is " Kirana Gharana" , with which late Pt. Bhimsen Joshi was associated and gained global acclaim in the musical arena.

In addition, Nachiketa also presented a synopsis of the raagas "Ahir Bhairav and Anand Bhairav", the latter of which he demonstrated through another bandish by Pt. Ramashray Jha. He concluded his recital with a popular Marathi Abhang- a devotional song, "Teertha viTThala" which was made famous by late Pt.Bhimsen Joshi. That was for the most part, set to raaga Ahir Bhairav.

1.

Now, it was the turn of "Instrumental Music" and it was Dr. Prasad Jogalekar, a well known popular Sitar Maestro , in the Bay Area. Prasad Ji received his initial

Prasad Joglekar at the concert

training from the legendary Sitar Player Ustad Abdul Hamid Jaffer Khan and he also learnt nuances of other Sitar styles from Sitar Maestros Ustad Shahid Parvez and Pandit Partha Chatterjee. He has performed at the San Jose Chamber Orchestra besides conducting guest lectures on Sitar Music at Stanford and U.C. Davis. For this Concert, he played "Basant Bukhari Raag" (closely allied to Raag Bhairav") which is also known as "Hijah Bhairav" Purvarang.

His performance on Sitar for over 45 minutes at the concert was stunning and mesmerizing.

With the best performing Vocalists and Musicians, the audience hailed this event as a musical extravaganza of Hindustani Classical Raags. The event was emceed by Sujata Mudumba with appropriate comments on Raags, interesting information on the movie songs, music composers and music directors concerned with the songs.

Vote of thanks was proposed by Shakuntala Bahadur, who is a Poet and a Scholar in Sanskrit and Hindi). Sound was ably managed by Dilipbhai Shah. Volunteers led by Nishikant supported the organizational arrangements.

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Tech News Adani Group to set up solar park in TN CHENNAI: Business conglomerate Adani Group has proposed to set up a solar park in Tamil Nadu tipped to be among the world's largest at an outlay of Rs 4,536 crore.

State-run TANGEDCO (Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation) and Adani Group signed an agreement today in the presence of Chief Minster J Jayalalithaa.

"Adani Group has proposed to set up five solar power generation centres with a total capacity of 648 MW in Ramanathapuram district of Tamil Nadu at an investment of Rs 4,536 crore", an official statement said.

The power generated from the plant would be purchased at a price of Rs 7.01 per unit by the government.

Adani Group MD Rajesh Adani while explaining about the project said it will be one of the world's largest solar park and will be set up in Kamudhi, Ramanathapuram district.

Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa said, "I am very happy to be here.

I hope the project is successful and I hope your partnership with Tamil Nadu will continue". -PTI

Greece enters uncharted territory after referendum ATHENS: Greece lurched into uncharted territory and an uncertain future in Europe's common currency after voters overwhelmingly rejected demands by international creditors for more austerity measures in exchange for a bailout of its bankrupt economy.

Results showed about 61 per cent voted "no," compared with 39 per cent for "yes," with 100 per cent of the vote counted. The referendum Greece's first in more than four decades came amid severe restrictions on financial transactions in the country, imposed last week to stem a bank run that accelerated after the vote was called.

Thousands of jubilant government supporters celebrated in Syntagma Square in front of Parliament, waving Greek flags and chanting "No, no, no!"

Early trading on Asian markets indicated investors were alarmed, as stock indexes fell.

It was a decisive victory for Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, who had gambled the future of his 5month-old coalition government and his country in an all-or-nothing game of brinkmanship with Greece's creditors from other European countries that use the euro currency, the International Monetary Fund and the European Central Bank. -AP

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Internet Truckstop to increase minimum wage to $15 per hour BOISE, Idaho: The Internet Truckstop Group is raising its minimum wage to $15 per hour.

The Idaho Statesman reports, that the move by the parent company of Truckstop.com and other companies comes as pressure grows for a higher minimum wage in the U.S. Los Angeles and Seattle are increasing their lowest wages to $15 over the next few years. Idaho has the federal minimum of $7.25 an hour.

President Barack Obama has proposed raising that to $10.10.

Nine of 10 Treasure Valley business leaders surveyed this spring by the Idaho Statesman favored raising the minimum wage. -AP

Lord Karan Bilimoria among 8 NRIs awarded in UK LONDON: Leading NRI entrepreneur Lord Karan Bilimoria has been awarded as the International Indian of the Year for 2014-15 for his outstanding achievements in the fields of business and education.

India's Deputy High Commissioner to the UK, Virender Paul presented the award to Lord Bilimoria at a gala ceremony here over the weekend was organised by monthly publication India Link International.

Lord Bilimoria is the founder of Cobra Beer, Chairman of the Cobra Beer Partnership Limited, a joint venture with Molson Coors, and Chairman of Molson Coors Cobra India.

He is the Founding Chairman of the UK-India Business Council, a Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London, a former Chancellor of Thames Valley University (now the University of West London).

He was the youngest University Chancellor in the UK when appointed.

Sarosh Zaiwallia, founder of Zaiwalla and Co. Solicitors, London, received the award for International Indian Life-time services

to the legal profession.

Other award recipients included Uma Wadhwani (International Indian Business Woman of the year); Captain Nalin Pandey, Managing Director of Pentagon Marine Services (International Indian Lifetime Services to Maritime

elderly).

Pravinkant Amin (International Indian Promoting Community relations Worldwide); Bajrang Bahadur Mathur, Architect and Town Planner (International Indian Promoting Tourism through writing and art); and Sanjay

Lord Karan Bilimoria, founder & chairman of Cobra Beer

Trade India and the World 201415); Ravinder Singh Gidar, Founder Golden Care Homes (International Indian Promoting Healthcare for

Wadhwani, Managing Director, Wanis (International Indian Young entrepreneur 2014-15) were also awarded.

Delivering the India Link International annual lecture, Lord Bilimoria, who is also the Chancellor of the University of Birmingham, noted that the current immigration rule is wrong and it is harming the British universities as NonEuropean students, including those from India, prefer to study in other countries like the US. "If you ask the British whether non-EU students should be allowed to work after their studies, 75 per cent will respond positively," he said.

Referring to India-UK relations, he said the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit the UK in "autumn".

He also said that "universities in the UK are some of the best in the world and institutions this country has is phenomenal and world-class. British brands need to be promoted more and it has amassing manufacturing capabilities."

Referring to Tata's acquisition of Jaguar, Land Rover, Lord Bilimoria said: "Today Jaguar makes more profit than they (Tatas) bought when nobody wanted to buy it." -PTI

8-10% growth, anti-poverty measures needed: FM NEW DELHI: Pitching for passage of land acquisition and Goods and Service Tax (GST) bills in Parliament, Indian Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said policy reforms and 8-10 per cent economic growth are a must to eliminate poverty.

With Congress and other opposition parties threatening to disrupt the upcoming monsoon session, Jaitley said the message from the Socio Economic and Caste Census is clear that "growth and economic reforms help the poor as do targeted schemes".

The Census results, released on Friday last, have painted a grim picture of the rural India,

highlighting that one out of three families living in villages is landless and depends on manual labor

for livelihood.

Jaitley said improving this situation is the "number one priority

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley

of this government".

"Growth or redistribution?

Policy reforms or targeted antipoverty schemes? We believe these are false choices. Both are necessary," the Minister said in a Facebook post.

The way out to eliminate deprivation, Jaitley said, "is to achieve rapid economic growth of 8-10 per cent so that good jobs are created for all Indians quickly.

That is why the government is promoting investment."

He said for the government to eradicate deprivation most effectively and quickly, "a permanent, formal sector, well-paid job is the best anti-poverty measure".

Cont’d on page 14

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Chevrolet to roll out tiny AC Bandhan to start banking for overheated smartphones operations from Aug 23 WASHINGTON: In a first-ofits-kind technology, US-based automobile giant Chevrolet is introducing a personal air conditioner for overheated smartphones for improving performance and battery life.

The smartphone cool-air emit-

The feature is borne out of the finding that smartphones were not charging when they got too hot in cars. When car interiors heat up on a sunny day or the sun is beating through the window, phones can overheat, USA Today reported.

ter "Active Phone Cooling" is connected to the car's air conditioning and ventilation system.

"Over time, regular overheating can do permanent damage to the lithium ion batteries that power our

smartphones. I always recommend keeping your phone in a cool, ventilated place, where it can stay at a comfortable room temperature, whether it's charging or discharging," said Jeffrey Van Camp, deputy editor of Digital Trends was quoted as saying by the report.

Active Phone Cooling will be available in 2016 Impala, Malibu, Volt and Cruze models that are equipped with wireless charging.

It's a cold air vent that chills out your phone when it sits on a little tray below the dashboard. This is convenient for smartphone users who rely on their devices to play music and take hands-free calls on the road.

Chevrolet says this is an industry-first technology, though a similar effect might be achieved by fashioning a small smartphone hammock and hanging it in front of your car's regular air-conditioning vent. Having it built into the vehicle is a much neater solution, however, cnet.com reported. -PTI

Black money compliance window NEW DELHI: Those wanting to utilize the recently notified onetime black money compliance window can also use the e-filing facility of the tax department to declare their foreign-based untaxed assets apart from the manual filing and committing of these stash properties.

According to the scheme under the window, such a declaration can be filed online by an individual or entity and mandatorily will have to carry a "digital signature" to validate it.

A digital signature authenticates electronic documents in a similar manner as a handwritten signature validates printed or hand-written documents.

This signature cannot be forged and it asserts that a named person wrote or otherwise agreed to the document to which the signature is attached.

"The facility to file the overseas black money declaration is provided with an aim that anyone who wants to use the window for declaring unreported assets can do it with maximum secrecy and in quick time.

"Submitting the document manually or sending it by post to the nodal office in Delhi are also options provided in the scheme but e-filing is the most easy and secure way. The entire work of the compliance window

has been kept strictly confidential," a senior official said.

The facility can be utilised by visiting the official departmental website, https:// incometaxindiaefiling.gov.in, the official added.

The new two-page form brought out for this purpose has been categorised as 'Form 6' and has a three-page annexure for

Delhi, has been designated to receive the declarations, an official notification had stated.

The government recently notified the three-month compliance window beginning July 1.

The tax and penalty on such declared assets or funds can be paid till December 31.

Those availing the one-time 'compliance window' would be

the "statement of undisclosed assets located outside India".

The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) of India, the apex policy- making body of the tax department, has also empowered and earmarked a Commissioner of Income Tax office in the national capital to handle all the applications and process the declarations made in this regard to the department.

The Commissioner of Income Tax (International Tax)-2, New

required to pay a tax of 30 per cent and a penalty of a similar amount.

The compliance window is part of the new anti-black money law that was passed by Parliament in May and notified on May 26 after the President's assent.

Undisclosed overseas assets such as immovable property, jewellery, shares and artwork are to be valued at fair market prices for the purposes of tax and penalty under the new Act. -PTI

KOLKATA: Micro-finance institution Bandhan Financial Services, which got the final license from Reserve Bank of India to start universal banking, would formally start operations as a banker from August 23.

"We will start banking operations under Bandhan Bank from

the number of branches.

Ghosh said 65 per cent of the branches would be rural, while the rest 35 per cent would be opened in urban areas.

The logo for Bandhan Bank has been designed by advertising agency O&M, Ghosh said adding that all the branches would be on core banking platform.

Bandhan is also in the process of obtaining separate RBI licenses for RTGS, NEFT, payments gateways and CTS, he said.

Ghosh said all the necessary hardware and software are in place to start the operations.

The MFI had got the in-principle license from RBI to start universal banking in April 2014 within 18 months Bandhan chairman Chandra Sekhar Ghosh time.

Along with August 23 with the inauguration Bandhan, IDFC had also got the of 600 branches in 27 states across same in-principle approval from the country along with 250 on-site RBI for starting universal banking ATMs," Bandhan chairman operations.

Chandra Sekhar Ghosh told PTI. With IFC, GIC Singapore and He said 247 branches would be SIDBI as equity investors, opened in West Bengal, while Bandhan Bank would start operaBihar, Orissa and Assam would tions with a capital base of Rs 2,616 also have a good share in terms of crore. -PTI

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Consider the financial implications of lengthy auto loans

K

evin Flores has more than six years to pay off the loan on his new Nissan Frontier pickup.

That's more than double the length of the truck's bumper-tobumper warranty. And it means the Baton Rouge, Louisiana resident will be paying roughly $2,580 in interest over the life of the roughly $25,000 loan.

He accepted the extra costs that come with stretching out his loan payment term in order to make his monthly payments affordable. ``The way I justified it is, in five or six years, when I'm making more money, I can make extra payments toward that and pay it off sooner,'' said Flores, a buyer at an engineering company.

Car buyers are increasingly taking on loans with lengthier payoff terms to cope with rising prices or to make SUVs, crossovers and other pricier models more affordable. About 30 percent of all new vehicles financed in the first three months of the year were purchased with loans ranging from just over six to seven years, according to Experian Automotive.

In the first quarter of this year,

16 percent of used-car purchases were financed with these longerterm loans.

Low interest rates, longer manufacturer warranties and the increased durability of newer cars can help blunt the potential risks of a loan that may not be paid off

late into higher interest payments over the life of the loan and can saddle buyers with other costs. ``When you agree to finance for that period of time it makes a car seem more affordable than it would otherwise might be,'' said Philip Reed, senior consumer advice edi-

for six or seven years. People are hanging on to their cars for longer periods, with the average length of ownership at about eight years, said Melinda Zabritski, Experian's senior director of automotive finance.

Even so, these loans also trans-

tor at Edmunds.com.

Here's what to consider if you're contemplating taking an auto loan with a term of more than five years: OVERALL COSTS. The prospect of spreading out

8-10% growth, anti-poverty measures needed: FM Cont’d from page 12

The latest data, the Minister said, indicates that the investment cycle is slowly turning around and stalled projects were coming on stream at a faster pace.

In this regard, he added, "passing the GST and reforming the land law will accelerate this investment turnaround."

These bills, which are with different committees of Parliament, may face tough time as the opposition is expected to disrupt the functioning of the Houses in view of the Lalit Modi controversy. The monsoon session begins on July 21.

The Congress has demanded resignation of Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chief Minister of the north Indian state of Rajasthan Vasundhara Raje over alleged links with former The Indian Premier League (IPL) commissioner Lalit Modi.

Jaitley said targeted schemes and policies are needed to ensure that the benefits of growth reach those who have been left out.

"The government has been helping the poor by giving them subsidies. But these are poorly targeted and leaky," he said, add-

ing that the government's JAM (JanDhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) trinity would ensure that money reaches the hands of beneficiaries.

He said the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) subsidies would help government save approximately Rs12,700 crore this year.

Data showed that 5.37 crore (29.97 per cent) households in the rural areas were "landless deriving a major part of their income from manual labor".

"If we can be careful in our design and implementation, we can extend DBT to other commodities, so that the poor get more money to spend for their upliftment," Jaitley said.

The Census data, Jaitley said, reflects the conclusion that out of the seven measures of deprivation, the one that leads to the greatest amount of deprivation is

being a landless household that derives a major part of its income from manual casual labour.

Data showed that 5.37 crore (29.97 per cent) households in the rural areas were "landless deriving a major part of their income from manual labor".

He said the government aims to increase public investment in roads, railways, rural infrastructure and connectivity, besides creating conditions for greater private investment. "...implementing the GST and creating a common market, reforming land law, easing the costs of doing business and unblocking stalled projects are all measures that will improve the conditions for investment," Jaitley said.

The Census data showed that about 30 per cent of households encounter at least two out of the SECC's seven measures of deprivation and 49 per cent of households at least one. There are 17.91 crore rural households in India.

As many as 2.37 crore (13.25 per cent) families in villages lived in houses of one room with "kaccha" walls and roof.

It said that 21.53 per cent (or 3.86 crore) families living in villages belonged to SC/ST categories. -PTI

the expense of a vehicle may be enticing, but don't lose sight of the total cost. It's no accident that dealerships often will try to focus buyers on the monthly payment and not the sticker price and interest costs.

One strategy: Arrive at the dealership with preapproved financing in hand and say you want to negotiate the price of the car and leave any financing discussions until later. Once you arrive at an agreeable price, compare your preapproved financing to the dealership's offer.

Remember also that, unlike a mortgage, the interest paid on a car loan is not tax deductible.

Try Edmunds' interest rate calculator to determine how much you will pay over the life of the loan: LENGTH OF OWNERSHIP How long are you planning to keep the car -- long after your sixor seven-year loan term ends? Financially speaking, that could be the best move, as you can benefit from the savings of not having to make a car payment for a few years after you've paid it off.

But you also may have to contend with greater repair costs, and the fact that the car will have lost most of its resale or trade-in value.

Note that these factors will be more of a concern on a used car. ``Buying a used car is a good financial decision for a lot of people, but I wouldn't finance it for six or seven years,'' Reed said. ``Let's say it's a 3-year-old car. Now all of a sudden you're making payments on a 10-year-old car.''

DEPRECIATION RISKS Depreciation is the decline in the value of an asset over time.

And with cars, that begins as soon as you drive away from the dealership.

This can present some risks to borrowers with a six or seven year loan.

Let's say the car is in an accident within the first two or three years. If it is classified as a total loss, it's likely the owner would owe more on the car than it is worth, known as being upsidedown on the loan.

Depreciation also could mean taking on added costs for owners who decide to sell the car in those first few years. They may have to roll the debt on the car into a new loan on a new vehicle.

One way to reduce these risks is to put down 20 percent of the cost of the car upfront. That payment essentially covers the car's first year of depreciation, Reed said.

Another is to buy insurance, known as gap insurance, which covers the difference in the value of the vehicle and what's owed on the loan in the event of an accident. Be sure to shop around, though, as you may get a better deal from an insurer, rather than the auto dealership.

FASTER PAYOFF Find out whether there are any penalties for paying down the loan early. If not, consider paying a little extra every month. Over time, you may be able to reduce your interest costs. -AP

Indian aviation experts to inspect Nepal's 2nd international airport KATHMANDU: A team of Indian aviation experts will arrive here tomorrow to inspect any possible damage to Nepal's only international airport due to the powerful April 25 quake besides offering help in constructing a second international airport along the border with India.

The four-member engineering team led by executive director of Airport Authority of India H S Suresh will carry out inspection of the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) and also pay a field visit to the Simara Airport proposed at Nijgadh in Bara district, 200 km south from here, officials said.

According to a senior government official, the team is arriving here to assess possible damage caused by the two major earthquakes and the subsequent aftershocks at the country's only in-

ternational airport and provide necessary support to ensure its faultless operation.

They will inspect whether the physical structure as well as communication and navigation system of the airport were damaged by the earthquake or not, said Suresh Acharya, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation.

The Indian side is also willing to extend support, if necessary, to repair damage and renovate the airport in the aftermath of the quake, he added.

International help following the devastating quake was hampered due to congestion at the only airport at their disposal. Cracks had developed on the runway due to landing of heavy aircraft following which the airport was briefly closed down for repair. -PTI

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Multimedia experience in corporate museum set up by DS Group NEW DELHI: A light and sound exhibit that transports you to the bylanes of Chandni Chowk in Old Delhi, cyclorama projections, holograms and 3Ds that simulate a garden -- welcome to a multimedia spatial experience showcasing the DS corporate group.

In the west there are a number of corporate museums like Harley Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, the Hershey Foods Museum in Hershey, the Coca-Cola museum in Atlanta, which offers free tasting sessions at the end of its tours.

Porsche Museum built by world-famous architects Delugan Meissl stands outside Porsche Headquarters in Zuffenhausen, Germany. Such corporate museum defines the success story of these organisations.

Compared to the likes of such multi-national companies, the DS Group, a grow-

ing multi-diversified conglomerate with a turnover of over Rs 6500 crores has come up with a corporate museum.

The group is known for products like Baba Elaichi, Catch, Paas Paas, Chingles, Tulsi, Ksheer and many more.

"The objective of this museum is to keep the 85-year old legacy of the DS Group for future generations. It is the first of its kind and is certainly a unique and novel concept for corporate India," says Shashank Sarana, Senior General Manager, DS Group.

'Journey- The Corporate Museum' was conceived by the management of the group, which was established in the year 1929.

The management says that initially three to four years went into research for the museum, which included meeting old associates of the founders of the group.

"We had a mammoth task of collecting and collating data, photographs, archival material (labels, price list etc), tools, antiques, photographs etc. Travelled all over the world to explore various museums and experience new technologies available," says Sarana.

The Rs 17 crore museum is divided into five sections and each section is unique in its treatment, experiences evoked and technologies used.

Dramatic telling of the group's story is made possible by using elements from theatre, film, music and art to create a completely immersive, sensory experience.

The 'Forest of Fragrances' is a metaphorical holding area before the timed show starts.

"The soul of the group is flavours and fragrances which are the core of the products produced by us. The experience of the forest is enhanced by fragrances which are sprayed on the visitors through motiontriggered smell machines," says Sarana.

The next area is a re creation of the group's founder Dharampal Satyapal's lab and office and the team helped restore and re-create the same era by using the original office gadgets and furniture used by the founder himself.

"From the furniture, the AC to the many tiny bottles of essences, tools etc., all belonged to him. With the way the objects are

assembled, matched with the woodwork, the flooring and ceiling, visitors are taken back in time and space to his actual lab," says Sarana.

Zone one captures the story behind the groups early ventures and its establishment on the streets of Chandni Chowk in old Delhi in 1929. The story comes to life through the light and sound technique. -PTI

Desi News VHP 2015 Convention in Chicago?

Leaders Press Claim

COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA

RAMESH SOPARAWALA

CHICAGO: A former Kharagpur IIT student turned a foremost protagonist of Sanatan dharm and its philosophy thru Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Swami Vigyanand ji Maharaj was in Chicago last week seeking support for and explaining the basics of Word Hindu Economic Forum meet slated to be held in London coming September.

His presence in the city was also an invigorating one for a large number of VHP activists who are actively canvassing for hosting the proposed World Hindu Convention in Chicago in 2018. The Convention is to be held in USA and Chicagoans want it be its host here.

Details on page 23

Hundreds get spell bound by vaswani spiritual talk Asian Media USA

OAK BROOK: Hundreds gathered to hear a highly revered Indian spiritual Guru, Dada Vaswani at the Drake Hotel in Oak Brook, a suburb of Chicago last month. He touched upon the topic of "Stay Connected" that was followed by a Question & Answer session addressing a variety of topics including life after death, marriage, forgiveness, and the power of thought.

Dada launched his talk by drawing attention to the growing epidemic of loneliness and suggested that the cause of this is because so many of us are not spiritually connected.

Details on page 20

Bal Vihar in St Louis Celebrates Yoga day

16 India Post

www.indiapost.com

Celebrating India in the heart of San Francisco - Spring India Day!

July 10, 2015

FOG Awards is the buzz in Bay Area!!

India Post News Service

F

estival of Globe is a 10-day jubilant celebration starting from Aug 7th to 16th, 2015 in the Silicon Valley and will include SF Global Movie Fest, FOG Awards, Famous Mela (Fair), and Grand Parade.

Federation of Indo-Americans (FIA) is well known in San Francisco and western US for organizing colossal community events that integrate the fabric of global communities. This year, it is bringing "Festival of Globe (FOG)" a bonanza to bay area.

Surpassing previous turnout records, this year promises to attract largest ever gatherings in the bay area. About 20,000 people are expected to attend FOG awards in SAP center and 150,000 people expected to participate in FOG Grand Parade.

To support the oppressed and show its solidarity, this year's theme is Freedom for all globally.

The net proceeds from this year's events will go towards women empowerment and helping in women issues like Sex Trafficking victims, Domestic Violence victims, Gender Equality and Women Safety.

Dr. Romesh Japra, Founder and Convener FOG was gushing with

(L-R) Dr. Romesh Japra. Convener and Founder, FOG addressing the press conference

Om Puri, Kieu Chinh, Shane Sparks, he said, "Festival of Globe mission is to empower and integrate global cultures and commu-

sues, Child Abuse, Toy Drive, Youth Development, Senior support, Feeding the Hungry and Homeless, Free Health Care, sup-

The FOG awards will be held on largest ever scale at SAP Center. It is expected to have 20,000 attendees and will be graced by more than hundred invited Bollywood and Hollywood celebrities. The welcome addresses will be by Consul Generals of various countries followed by a press conference

ASHWIN PATEL

S

t Louis The Center of Indian Cultural Education- Bal Vihar of St. Louis joined 192 countries and over 200 million people across the world in celebrating the International Yoga day on June 21, 2015 in St. Louis MO. The event was held at Mahatma Gandhi Center located in Manchester, MO The local community leaders, leading professional yoga instructors, Bal Vihar school yoga teachers, the school youth and many community people.

Details on page 19

Details on page 25

enthusiasm and spoke of his dream and mission of Empowering Social and Cultural Entrepreneurship. During a FOG press conference with Gulshan Grover,

nities through Film Arts, Performing Arts, Visual Arts and Folk Arts.

FOG creates various platforms and activities to champion various Social Causes like Women's Is-

port Physically Challenged, Support Disasters, Promote Individual Freedom and more. FOG will continue to be at the forefront of cultural leadership in inculcating val-

ues of compassion, helping the oppressed and championing causes of gender equality".

FOG Awards: Unique recognition for global achievers FOG AWARDS is a premier show that selects over 100 winners from movies submitted from more than 30 countries. The host of celebrities from Bollywood, Hollywood, Latino World, Europe, China and Far East, top movie makers, independent movie makers and investors will be descending into San Jose, the technology capital from and around the globe.

Awards will also be bestowed upon ACHIEVERS who champion noble causes and make this world a more friendly, enjoyable and progressive place. There will be a unique display of performing arts on this platform. Global cultural dances, music, comedy and fashion fest will enrich and entertain everyone's taste.

The FOG awards will be held on largest ever scale at SAP Center. It is expected to have 20,000 attendees and will be graced by more than hundred invited Bollywood and Hollywood celebrities. The welcome addresses will be by Consul Generals of various countries followed by a press conference.

Cont’d on page 19

Community Across America

July 10, 2015

India Post 17

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Sikh religious society participates in july 4th parade SURENDRA ULLAL

CHICAGO: Sikh Religious Society Palatine participated in the Independence Day parade held on Saturday July 4, 2015 in Palatine. a northwest suburb of Chicago, This annual parade, watched by local dignitaries and Palatine officials, had about eighty entries and was organized by the Palatine Jaycees. More than fifty Sikh American members men, women and children from Palatine Gurudwara marched with a colorfully decorated float, and distributing cold water bottles to the specta-

Sikh Float at July 4 th Parade. Pics Indermohan Singh

Aavegh dance troupe raise funds for Nepal victims SADRUDDIN NOORANI

CHICAGO: Aavegh Dance Troupe performed an encore presentation of its third production Tyaag, showcasing a series of unique and moving pieces taking audience members through the emotions involved with "letting go."

Described as "visceral," "moving," "honest," and "transformative" by audience members, the production was showcased at College of Dupage's McAninch Arts Center On Saturday, June 27,2015.

Since its inception a decade ago, Aavegh

Two performances duromg the Aaveg stage presentation

has raised over $12,000 for organizations such as Apna Ghar, CARE, Women's Heart Association, and Rainbows for All Children.

For their June performance, Aavegh focused on raising funds for the recovery efforts in Nepal.

Tyaag brought together the different dance styles of south Asian classical, folk, ballet, modern, and contemporary dance to depict different experiences of releasing the past and moving forward. The production explored a range of human experiences including saying goodbye to a loved one, letting go of a son as he goes to war, sending your son to his first day of school, and

moving forward from debilitating cancer. Set to a powerful soundtrack, each piece's message was enhanced with original poetry authored by Aavegh members.

As one audience member commented, "Each number was visceral in a way I have not experienced in a dance show in quite some time." Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Consul General of India and Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Consul General of Pakistan, were present at this event Aavegh's founder and director, Supna Jain, found inspiration for the production from the experiences of family and friends: "With so much hardship, suffering, and loss experienced daily, I was inspired by and wanted to focus on the strength of those around me to "let go", stay positive, and move forward."

Unique not only in its dance style and its efforts to provide young professionals an opportunity to pursue their creative interests, Aavegh also seeks to raise awareness and donations for nonprofits with a mission tied to each production's theme.

Aavegh was started in February 2005 by Supna Chaudhari Jain, an accomplished Bharata Natyam, modern, and Indian folk dancer Through its blending of Indian classical and folk dance with modern dance forms, art, and poetry, Aavegh promotes its mission of creating awareness and raising donations for local and worldwide nonprofits with each performance. For more information regarding the organization and its powerful work, visit www.aavegh.org or www.facebook.org/aavegh.

Aavegh Dance Troupe members

Raj Mago teaching Bhangra to a group of spectators

tors on a sunny hot day along the parade route. The float was decorated with U.S. Flags, Nishan Sahib, Banners and a picture of Darbar Sahib (Golden Temple Thousands of local resident families and children lined up alongside the parade route to cheer the parade, while enjoying a holiday on a beautiful day. Punjabi Dhol (drum) was played live, people loved it and clapped to the drum beats. Rajinder Singh Mago entertained the crowds with Bhangra dance moves along the parade route inspiring the spectators to clap on the Dhol beats. Many of them actually got excited and joined him

in the dance moves in a celebration mood and for fun.

Palatine is home to Sikh Religious Society Gurdwara. The S.R.S. participation in the Palatine parade was coordinated by Rajinder Singh Mago and many other volunteers.

The parade ended near the "Hometown Fest" at community park where a weekend long festival of food booths, arts and crafts, entertainment, shopping, Carnival with rides and fun filled activities for all was in full swing. The purpose of the parade is to celebrate the 4th of July Independence day, and also proudly display our culture.

18 India Post

Community Across America

July 10, 2015

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Sri Sri gets recognition from South American country VANDANA JHINGAN

CHICAGO: Spiritual leader, peace ambassador and founder of The Art of Living was bestowed with Colombia's highest civilian award 'Orden de la Democracia Simón Bolívar' by Dr. Fabio Raúl Amín Saleme, President of the House of Representatives, Congress of Colombia.

The award is in recognition of Sri Sri's peace work around the world, with special reference to his work in Colombia through his

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, spiritual leader, humanitarian & Founder, Art of Living has been bestowed with Colombia's highest declaration award from Dr. Fabio Raúl Amín Saleme Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, with Members of Parliament of the Congress of Colombia

foundation, The Art of Living.

America, will also be the first InSri Sri dedicated the award to dia spiritual leader who will receive those who are working for non- the degree of Grand Officer from violence. "When the conflict is the Andean Parliament which is the between justice & peace it is a highest award from the Andean humongous task to reconcile the Parliament in Lima, Peru. He will two. Only a spiritual dimension also receive the Diploma of Honor can ease the situation," said Sri of the National Congress of Peru Sri who has worked in conflict for his constant social work and zones across the world. mission to deliver peace to everyThe India Prime Minister, Sri one, as his foundation and proNarendra Modi also took to twit- grams have helped thousands of ter to congratulate Sri Sri on his achievement.

"Congratulations to @SriSri ji on being conferred 'Orden de la Democracia Simon Bolivar en el grado de cruz Caballero' by Colombia. We are very proud of the excellent work @SriSri ji is doing across the world. His noble efforts have always created a major impact globally," he tweeted.

In a written letter earlier to Sri Sri, Hon. Fabio Raul Amin Saleme, the Hon. President of the House of Representatives had said, "Your Sri Sri Ravi Shankar dedicated the highest commitment in Colomcivilian award of the Democratic Republic of bia for more than eight Colombia to those who work for non-violence years compels us to recognize your achievements in peace matters in people in Peru. our overwhelmed nation, and to "Some of the Congressman thank you for the undeniable pres- have done the programs that The ence of The Art of Living in our Art of Living provides, after comcountry. We invite you to keep pleting the course and filled with helping us in the construction of inner peace that they felt that Sri a more inclusive and less violent Sri must come to Perú and deliver society, where we can accept one his message to more people," said and other."

Alejandro Martinez Meijide, direcThe Hon. President also made tor of the Art of Living in Peru. special mention of Sri Sri's proIn the backdrop of Peru facing grams, which have taught medita- violence, corruption and stress, tion and the Sudarshan Kriya to Mr. Brando Tapia, Congress man thousands of people in Colombia, in Peru and member of the Andean and to millions around the world. Parliament shared, "Everyone "Through this institution (The Art should have the opportunity to of Living), many have found an know this worldwide spiritual antidote to the stress they are un- leader, who helps us to have a betdergoing daily, by practicing yoga ter quality of life, who encourages and breathing techniques," us to do service and create a betshared Mr. Saleme. ter society filled with respect, Sri Sri who is on a tour of South union and happiness."

July 10, 2015

Community Across America

India Post 19

www.indiapost.com

Bal Vihar in St Louis Celebrates International Yoga day ASHWIN PATEL

St Louis The Center of Indian Cultural Education- Bal Vihar of St. Louis joined 192 countries and over 200 million people across the world in celebrating the International Yoga day on June 21, 2015 in St. Louis MO. The event was held at Mahatma Gandhi Center located in Manchester, MO The local community leaders, leading professional yoga instructors, Bal Vihar school yoga teachers, the school youth and many community people participated in sessions from 8 AM till noon performing 2300 Sun Salutations.

Bal Vihar of St. Louis, a premier educational institution of MO, enters into 24th year of its services to the community future generation and fosters Asian Indian cultural values in the children.

Founded in 1992, this organization is preparing the future citizens,

The Yoga session in progress St Louis

achievers of America to understand & apply Asian Indian culture, its heritage and values for the best in the community.

With recent enrollment of more than 355 students from ages 5 through 16 years, and as many as

2000 students have gone through the school over the last twenty three years. Its volunteer staff consists of professional individuals who have a keen interest in maintaining culture in their children. The students are exposed to

FOG Awards is the buzz in Bay Area!!

Cont’d from page 16

Bappi Lahri a legendary Bollywood music director and a strong supporter of FOG SF Global Movie Fest is producing a video for the FOG awards with Hollywood singers and also performing a song at FOG Awards along with the famous Kat Kramer at FOG Awards!!

Andy Madadian and Sonu Nigam will perform together in filling the SAP enter with the poetic beauty of Persian, Armenian music and soulful Indian vibes set against the vibrant backdrop of dance music. Andy Madadian, "The Persian Elvis" has released multiple albums selling in the millions throughout the world. He is famous for his blending and harmonious music making East meet west to listener's delight. This will be a unique rendition at FOG Awards.

A unique hip blend has been added to FOG Awards as the rapper known as 'Bohemia the king of Punjabi rap' will have an unprecedented live stage performance.

Bohemia is popularly recognized as the creator of Punjabi rap music. His hit singles like 'Kali Denali',

'Charso Bees' and his appearance in the Bollywood film 'Chandi Chawk to China' with Akshay Kumar has put Bohemia in a league of his own as a pioneer of a new

gust 15th, 2015 at SAP Center at 5:00 p.m. Aesthetically appealing performances will continue in to the evening at SAP center.

Visit www.FOGsv.org for more

genre.

Jackie Chan, Sharon Stone, Martin Sheen, Rani Mukherjee, Ileana D'Cruz, Bappi Lahri, Neha Dhupia, and Sonu Nigam and many more Hollywood and Bollywood celebrities are among the star attractions.

FOG Awards and Red Carpet Gala will be held on Saturday, Au-

details.

FOG Awards tickets available at ticketmaster.com.

Buy tickets at Sulekha.com/FOG The Federation of Indo Americans (FIA) of Northern California (FIA) is a Fremont based 501C(3) umbrella organization (Non-Profit Tax id #77-0177823)

a wide variety of cultural and Asian religion aspects including the meditation techniques, Yoga, a method to stay healthy internally; Indian festivals etc. Children participate in debates such as values of various cultures and their

significances, their own cultural values in the modern society, and living in harmony. Our school participates in the Diversity program which involves visiting Churches, mosque, synagogue, Gurudwara, ISKON temple and more.

Kanubhai Preaches "Authenitc" Yoga thru Yog Setu

C

SURENDRA ULLAL

hicago Yoga that had But the sad part is that the Westtaken birth in India thou- erners have given several forms sands of years ago is a and names that are different from Brahma Vidya and ha no religious the real Yoga. Charlatans have connotation as claimed by some been cashing on the great popunarrow minded religious bigots, larity that Yoga is having in the asserted Kanubhai Brahmbhat Western world of late. who was recently named World The Yoga culture is also tainted Yoga Ambassadorby World Yoga by some religious zealots who Foundation of New Delhi keep on asserting that it is a Hndu A disciple of great master of practice. No doubt the origin was Hath yoga Swami Vidyanand of World Yoga Federation, Kanubhai asserts that it is as important to the mankind as the recent advances in medical and technological studies.. The only difference is that Yoga has been evolved by rishis and saints after severe penance, research and practice while the modern medical advances are the outcome of Yoga Postures by Kanubhai Brahmbhat lab reserahes and experiments in India and back thousands of Yoga is not just physical. It re- years ago but it was not confined lates to mind, body and soul. It to any one religion. connects all of them. Yoga means Bhakti Yoga, Hata Yoga or Raja unification or union, ac- Yoga as authored and authenticording to Kanubhai who made his cated by Sage Patanjali are some presence in Chicagoland by teach- essential forms. The irony is that ing Yoga to a number of adherents. some Westerners want to patent In a talk to this paper, Kanubhai yoga. India is the sole owner of observed that the good part of the yogic science. India must fight yoga is that the Westerners, who for that right on an international looked down upon it till recently, level, he maintains.

Cont’d on page 20 have now realized its importance.

20 India Post

Community Across America

July 10, 2015

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Hundreds get spell bound by vaswani spiritual talk OAK BROOK: Hundreds gathered to hear a highly revered Indian spiritual Guru, Dada Vaswani at the Drake Hotel in Oak Brook, a suburb of Chicago last month. He touched upon the topic of "Stay Connected" that was followed by a Question & Answer session addressing a variety of topics including life after death, marriage, forgiveness, and the power of thought.

Dada launched his talk by drawing attention to the growing epidemic of loneliness and suggested that the cause of this is because so many of us are not spiritually connected.

He offered several practical suggestions on how to stay connected to our spirituality, the first of which was to open and close the day with a prayer.

Another recommendation Dada gave was to read some positive literature before going to bed. Dada also advised that to "stay connected" we should try to stay relaxed always and to avoid over work.

"Remember, work is not the end of life. Work is only a mean. Works purifies our antahkaran-the inner instrument," he explained. "Do your work; it is your duty to do.

Beyond that, give time to God."

in your hearts." His response was met with enthusiastic applause.

Dada brought his great sense of humor to his answers, as well.

When one audience member asked, "How do I deal with liars?" Dada very seriously and matter-of-factly answered, "Consult a lawyer."

The response earned roars of laughter.

One audience member noted that the expectation in the modern world is for humanity to speed up.

CHICAGO: Large number of seniors and their family members joined the Metropolitan Asian Family Services (MAFS) and Universal Metro Asian Services attending the First International Day of Yoga celebrated held at Odium Center in Villa Park.

Over 1000 packets of food and fruits were distributed by MAFS. The day for the seniors started seeing Benefit of Yoga slideshow which was presented by Patanjali Yogpeth of Chicago. Ms. Bhanumati Mehta, a longtime volunteer of MAFS presented Laughing Yoga for its seniors, she also explained importance of Yoga and Pranayama for seniors.

The program for the seniors concluded with "Meditation for Heart" by Mr.Raga Ragavendran of Sahaj Marg. MAFS seniors and their family members were very excited and thanked Indian Consulate team and MAFS Chief Ms Santosh Kumar for presetting them withhe opportunity to attend this greatly successful program.

We truly recognize holistic benefit of this timeless practice and are proud that that world is recog-

-Asian Media USA

Dada Vaswani with Oakbrook Mayor Dr Lalmalani

To stay connected, Dada advised forgiving "even before forgiveness is asked. This is the mark of the man who actually stays connected," said Dada. "If you don't forgive, you will lose your piece of mind, and if you lose your peace of mind, the connection breaks."

In addition, Dada suggested that "whatever be the work that you do‌do it in the very best way that you can because it is your offering to the Lord. Give to the world the best that is in you, and the best will return to you."

Dada's final practical suggestion is one that he calls us to again and again: help others. "Help as

many as you can to lift the load on the rough road of life," he urged.

Following Dada's talk, the mayor of Oak Brook, Dr. Gopal Lalmalani, moderated a Question & Answer session..

Dada guided one audience member on what to look for in a partner. "Is your partner a person of faith?" he asked. "Secondly, is he a person of self-control-does he get irritated, does he get angry at the least excuse? Of this always be sure," he advised.

One audience member asked, "When will there be peace in the world?" To this, Dada answered simply, "When there will be peace

MAFS Boost Yoga Day Conducting Talk & Distributing Food Pkts India Post News Service

However, the scriptures tell us to slow down. This audience member wanted to know how to reconcile these two expectations. With wit and thoughtfulness, Dada said, "Blend both. Slow down and also move faster. Slow down in matters terrestrial, in matters that belong to this world, slow down," he said.

"But in matters divine, in matters that relate to God, run fast.".

nizing us, says Mrs. Kumar. She urged asked all her seniors and staff members to adopt practice of yoga in their lives.

Metropolitan Asian Family services (MAFS) and Universal Metro Asian Services (UMAS) are

Multicultural, Multiethnic community organization. They have 8 senior centers in Chicago area and are serving the community for the past 22 years. Many locations of MAFS are now starting free yoga classes for seniors and their family members.

MAFS team with admirers and members. Pics Asian Media USA

Attendees at Mafs hosted Yoga Talk by Ms Bhanumati Mehta

Dada Vaswani audience

Kanubhai Preaches "Authenitc" Yoga thru Yog Setu Cont’d from page 19

Kanubhai has set up Yog Setu, an institution with eminent yoga experts, to teach yoga and promote healthy mind and body across the globe. Yog Setu centers is now functioning in Baroda and Ahmedabad as well. Yoga teachers trained at Yog Setu centers are exclusively authorized to teach yoga in its true and pristine form to people in India. "We are trying to open Yog Setu centers all over the world to popularize authentic yoga education as evolved by Sage Patanjali, " Kanubhai says.

Besides physical exercise through yoga postures, one need ton learn to keep the body disease free through learniing.

Ayurveda, the science of life that uses mostly naturally available herbs and ingredients. Diagnosed properly and used with proper discipline, Ayurveda treatment can help root out many diseases.

Herbal and naturally available medicines are inexpensive and

have minimum side effects. The stressed mind can be calmed down through the practice of meditation. Meditation, exercise and healthy living are parts of yoga that bring balanced unity of mind, body and soul.

Detoxification of body and regeneration of wasted energy

with discipline can revitalize people. Kanubhai says that undue interference in nature by human beings should be stopped.

Kanubhai has added one more feather in his growing cap of achievements. He was recently bestowed Diploma in naturopathy

by Gandhi Academy of Naturopathy and he claims that he can now offer consultations for a nature cure while addressing different disease through this system of cure.

July 10, 2015

Community Across America

India Post 21

www.indiapost.com

St Louis residents enthralled by Indian dance and music festival ASHWIN PATEL

ST LOUIS: It was a colorful evening filled with great dance, music gurus, art patrons and hundreds of dance and music students gathered to felicitate one of the great teachers of Indian classical dance s here - Guru Viji Prakash,

ern hemisphere. The dance community present included Guru Prachi Dixit (Director of Nupur Academy, Los Angeles, CA); Guru Sujatha Vinjamuri (Director Kuchipudi arts Academy, St. Louis); Guru Malavika Venkatasubbaiah (Director, N a t y a m Dance Academy, Calgary, Canada).

Guru Viji Prakash remembered her Gurus and musicians who worked with her. She thanked her family.

The 7th St. Viji Prakash Getting Award Louis Indian Dance and artistic director of Shakti Dance Music Festival - curated by Guru Company, of Los Angeles, Califor- Prasanna Kasthuri - spanning for nia three days from June 12, 13 to 14 The "Soorya Life Time in CHS auditorium in Missouri has Achievement award" was insti- become a tradition of celebration tuted by Soorya Performing Arts of Indian performing arts. had a purse of $1000, with a On the first day, Surabhi plaque. This award was presented Bharadwaj presented an enchantto. Viji Prakash is one of the pio- ing performance with elasticity.

Her Abhinaya was excellent and her movements were crisp. Being a young performer she showed prowess in her presentation. There were some acrobatic gimmicks to please the audience, which by the way got her lots of applauses.

Guru Prasanna Kasthuri presented his skillful work of "Rasa Gathi" - which portrayed the theory of "Rasa Concept" through the illustrations from 10th century work of Dhananjaya's Dasharoopaka. After going through a life altering surgery, his ability to bounce back and perform Surabhi Bhardwawaj performance a full scale performance was astonishing. Abhinaya was impecneer gurus who brought dance to western hemisphere in the mid 70's along with people like Rathna Kumar, Hema Rajagopalan, Padmini and others.

She was given a plaque by Guru Rathna Kumar, artistic director of Anjali Center for Performing Arts.

Guru Rathna remembered the days in USA - when anything Indian was so scarce. She mentioned all the dance gurus such as Viji started teach and perform dance to keep the traditions alive.

She remembered all great artists starting from - La Meri to Viji, who pioneered the Indian dances in USA. She praised Guru Viji Prakash's huge contribution to Guru Prasanna Showing Raanava from Ramayana Indian classical dance in the west-

Prachi Kalli Nritya

cable and he managed the nritta Dr. Poorna Prajna. He took quite a with ease. One could see his pas- while to set himself into groove, sion to perform and present exclusive pieces of literature, to make the dance festival more authentic and valuable. He excelled in the Nava rasa (Nine sentiments) through the roles of Shiva-parvati, Raavana, Rama, Guitarists Seema and Heyer cannibals, Manmatha & Rathi. but once he started, he took the The last performance of the audience to a great ride of music. first day was a violin concert by Cont’d on page 22

Community Across America

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July 10, 2015

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Shree Umiya Dham Chicago Midwest Team Unveils Umiya Mataji Jyoti Rath JAYANTI OZA & ASIAN MEDIA USA

rable event as this project was very close to his heart. He feels privileged and honored to be part of the SUDCM project.

He briefed about the mission of the Shree Umiya Dham. He also stressed that the upcoming Shree Umiya Dham project will start with

more are expected to attend the event. Vijay and Ashvin Patel provided details of the Jyoti Rath arrival and Rath Padharamni process. They announced August 29th as SUDCM garba and Uchamani(auction) Night and invited all guests to be present and

Patel, Haribhai Patel, Dahyabhai Prajapati, Khodabhai Patel, Mansukh Patel, Dr. AJ Patel, Ambalal Patel, Shankar Patel, Gordhan Patel, Hasmukh (HK) Patel, Vinod Patel, Sittaram Patel, Harshad Desai, Sonal Patel, and number of businessmen and pro-

Shre Umiya Mata Ji. Pics Jayanit Oza and Asian Media

CHICAGO: Shree Umiya Dham Chicago Midwest (SUDCM) team unveiled the details of Shree Umiya Mataji Jyoti Rath arrival and proposed Umiya Mataji Temple here on Monday - June 29, 2015 at Ashyana Banquets, in Downers Grove, a southwest suburb of Chicaog.

This Jyoti Rath event included video highlights of Jyoti Rath Vidai Ceremony at Unjha, details of Shree Umiya Dham Project goals, mission and the current status, Mataji Rath activities, membership categories, financial commitments, open forum for questions, delicious food, and meeting the invited dignitaries.

The event started the video highlights of Jyoti Rath Vidai Ceremony at Unjha, India. Narendra Patel introduced Devendra Patel who welcomed the guests and

establishing Shree Umiya Mataji temple in Chicagoland. His speech also touched upon the history of Kadva Patidars and the audience chanted 'Shree Umiya Mata Ki Jai!!' giving a spiritual color to the entire processiding.

Narendra Patel took the opportunity to introduce current working committee members comprising of - AP Patel, Ashvin Patel, Brijesh Patel, Chhotalal Patel, Dashrath Patel, Devendra Patel, Dharmisth Patel, Dilip Patel, Dipak Desai, Dipal Patel, Dr. Hemant Patel, Jayanti Patel, Jatin Patel, Jitu Patel, Lalbhai Patel, Manoj Patel, Narendra Patel, Pankaj Patel, Revabhai Patel, Shailesh Patel, and Vijay Patel.

Narendra Patel then introduced prominent community activist Chhotalal Patel as a person who believes strongly in the importance

Group of community leaders and 'Umiya Dham' current Committee members

Umiya Mataji Mandir, large community hall, and expands down the road to build a sports activities facility, retirement home, as well as a funeral home, all of which should serve the needs of communities for decades to come.

Jayanti Patel talked about the Jyoti Rath Vidai Celebration that took place on May 20th, 2015 in Unjha, India. The Jyoti Rath program was celebrated with fireworks, musical band, and mataji garba in presence of all committee members of Shree Umiya Mata Sanstha.

Jyoti Rath will arrive in the few weeks and will be kept temporarily in Carol Stream at 457 St. Paul Bou-

Speakers : Dr Mafat Patel, Chhotubhai Patel and Narendrabhai Patel

thanked them for their support.

A former speaker of Gujarat, Dr. Mafatlal Patel, was the special guest. In his address, Dr Pael pitched for unity among all Patidars in the United States, congratulated SUDCM team for their efforts in bringing this event and

of the social, religious and moral values and instilling the same in the youth. He also pitched for giving back to the community and spreading good karma.

Chhotalal Paatel in his response thanked everyone who helped in organizing this memo-

levard until a permanent home is found. Narendra Patel provided details of the Jyoti Rath Swagat Ceremony that will take place in the Odeum Sports & Expo Center of Villa Park. Tentative date was announced on or about August 29 and 30 of this year. Over 5,000 or

participate in the event.

This event was attended by community leaders such as Mafatbhai Patel, Jayantibhai Patel, Mithabhai Patel, Dr.Hinaben

fessionals.

In the end, Narendra Patel recognized DJ Arun Modi, Jain of Ashyana Banquets, and everyone else for their support.

St Louis residents enthralled by Indian dance and music festival Cont’d from page 21

His sustaining, smooth overtures were simply calming and peaceful.

Second day started with an invocation from Soorya Dance Company and students of Guru Smitha Rajan. Later Guru Rathna Kumar presented Shivoham - a collection of dances in Kuchipudi and Bharathanatyam. Expert choreography was very visible in the way dancers moved across the stage.

The presentation invoked a pure, unbounded joy of transcendental feeling.

Venugopal Josyula was a talented, splendid male dancer, who presented a sheer beauty of light tandava sneak piece with his inaugural Pasoonaam Pathim. His rendering of Shankara Srigiri was eye catching. Guru Rathna Kumar's experience of choreography was very visible in her presentation; it was an amazing event to watch which got consistent applauses.

Life time honoree - Viji Prakash's students presented Gajavadana beduve, well know Kannada devaranama with an inclusion of

Nritta for an interspersed swara vistara with impressive patterns.

Ranjani mrudu pankaja lochani in ragamalika a challenging piece to any dancer was presented with grace and ease, Shakti dance company presented some of their best dancers to showcase the beauty of Goddess Tripura Sundari in an remarkable way. Pillangoviya Cheuluva Krishna - a famous song on Lord Krishna's playful youth, was very playful and energetic Guru Sushma Mohan of Los Angeles, CA presented age old "Tiruppavai", a collection of verses written by Tamil poetess Andal, a saint poetess who lived in South India during the 8th century.

Her presentation of Andal imagined herself as a cow-girl at the time of Sri Krishna, collecting all girls at dawn during the Margali month (December-January) and inviting them to worship Krishna was very pleasing. Sushma's elaboration of stories captured the minds of audience with a picturesque feeling of Gokula itself.

Cont’d on page 23

July 10, 2015

Community Across America

India Post 23

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VHP 2015 Convention in Chicago? Leaders Press Claim RAMESH SOPARAWALA

CHICAGO: A former Kharagpur IIT student turned a foremost protagonist of Sanatan dharm and its philosophy thru Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Swami Vigyanand ji Maharaj was in Chicago last week seeking support for and explaining the basics of Word Hindu Economic Forum meet slated to be held in London coming September.

His presence in the city was also an invigorating one for a large number of VHP activists who are

actively canvassing for hosting the proposed World Hindu Convention in Chicago in 2018. The Convention is to be held in USA and Chicagoans want it be its host here.

The Convention once in every four years is being held in different parts of the world for the past decade and half and it has been attracting steadily rising support from the global Hindu community.

As indicated by Swami Vigyanandji in his meet with the

St Louis residents enthralled by Indian dance and music festival Cont’d from page 22

Additionally Samanvita Kasthuri impressed audience as Mahavishnu. Shree Govani and Priya patel added color through their crisp nritta and mild Abhinaya.

Guru Prachi Dixit from Los Angeles presented "The Sword and the Flute - the story of Kali and Krishna" with a charm and intensity. Her dancers impressed the audience with the clear movement and inspiring Abhinaya. Guru Prachi Dixit herself performed and presented a valiant presentation of Durga with the support of an youngster - Khalil Alshar, who danced very effectively to present the masculine roles of the production.

Khalil was at ease with all different characters of the production and made himself an important piece of entire puzzle. In this festival - Prachi Dixit's show stood

of Southern states who were enslaved. Adding a black dance group was very appropriate to ending to show case the Emancipation proclamation by Abe Lincoln.

Guru Jinoo Vargheese's attempt to recreate bible stories was very brave and broke the boundaries of traditional Hindu mythologies and showcased the strength of the art form itself. With quick group formations, beautiful costumes, exquisite Abhinaya she produced a marvelous piece on stories of Jesus Christ.

Guru Prasanna Kasthuri's Dashavataram brought out a colorful presentation of 10 incarnations of God Vishnu. A crisp choreography with appropriate formations tendered awesome effect on drama elements. Dances were quick and story moved fast. Enacting of Narasimha was very fiery, and put everyone in the audience to their edge of the seat. So

The best kept secret of the dance-music festival was - "BLUE CHAKRA BAND" - a combination of Indian and American musicians. Lead Singer Seema presented powerful piece above everyone, just because of her high professional approach to the presentation of this production.

On the third day, Melukotai Vaiarmudi Utsav by Arathi School from Texas. It was very well conceived and presented very well.

Maya Angelou's "Caged bird" was a master piece - presented with Bharathanatyam technique showcased the flexibility of Indian classical dance style.

Dancers Rajam and Malathi Koli impressed everyone with their abhinaya of cotton picking slaves

was the effective presentation of Kali and Kalki avatara.

Dashaavataara was an impressive presentation. Dancers presented different sentiments effectively and performed with accurate Angashuddha The best kept secret of the dance-music festival was - "BLUE CHAKRA BAND" - a combination of Indian and American musicians.

Lead Singer Seema presented powerful piece - Gam gam gam ganapathi with a "Maharastrian" tinge; followed by an interesting mutual exchange of South Indian

Classical raga (melody) "Kharaharapriya" - which was played on western music scale in Dorian.

Guitarist Frank Heyer played wonderful interludes of Dorian scale when Seema sung Indian raga. Seema presented - a Bollywood song and finished with an English poem - written by herself - based on the legendary Sanskrit - verse - "asatoma sadgamaya". Blue Chakra band was a novel idea in St. Louis and has a great future. The other members - Prasanna on Key Board and Owen on Drums provided a strong support to the concert.

Malavika Venkatasubbaiah presented a peek into Mysore style of Bharathanatyam with her production 'Bhaavika'. Dancer exposed the emotions a woman who surrender herself to supreme God through total devotion and admiration to her God. The idiom, Malavika used to portray were, the stories of Parvathi - seeking God Shiva Lord Shankara; Gopis seeking Lord Krishna; and Radha rejecting unruly Krishna with heavy pain.

Malavika's refined Abhinaya was excellent; every focused audience understood the content of a Sanskrit piece successfully.

Dance festival ended with folk dances by Neelima Bhavsar and friends, who presented Raas Garbha. Mahashakti, - a panoramic representation of all dances of India by Soorya Performing Arts was presented with joy and merriment.

This dance festival was attended by hundreds of art lovers every day. It was supported by Missouri Arts Council, a state agency; Regional Arts Commission - a St. Louis based art supporting agency and US Wide Mortgages. Soorya Performing Arts conducted successfully for the 7th time to create a new record of consecutive dance festivals in USA for the first time.

Vigyanandji with community activists. Sohan Joshi, Nirva Patel, Vandana Jhingan, Shyamkant Seth and Harendra Mangrola

ethnic media meet, the last Con- unteers - Shyamkant Seth, Sohan vention in New Delhi was a tre- Joshi, Vandana Jhingan, Nirav mendous success with the atten- Patel and Harendra Mangrola. dance surpassing the best esti- Vandana indicated that the VHP mate of even organizers. And this group wanted the forth coming was only because, he said, it was Convention be held in Chicago not a sectarian meet but encom- which has huge historical signifipassing all interests and all groups.

"We have never believed in exclusiveness since the basic philosophy and a cardinal principle of Hinduism or Sanatan Dharm is -Vasudha Aive Kutumbakam- the whole world is my family-. We believe in inclusiveness, " he said and sought to point out that the World Hindu Economic Forum that is meeting in London from September 11 to 13 has Joint Secretary International VHP Vigyanandji topics of interest to all- education, women empowerment, economic cance. Other activists also backed development, technological ad- the idea. vances, and medicine.

Vigyanandji Maharaj stressed Vigyanandji Maharaj was not that it is important to get more and averse to the idea but indicated younger generation of Hindus to that Chicago has to buttress its be involved in the activities. In his claim preparing a case that would brief address, he detailed how VHP convince the VHP top brass that has been trying to help the eco- this city has capacity to host the nomic development of the coun- meet, attract huge attendance and try thru net working, capital for- address all relevant issues- ecomation, exchanging ideas on trade nomic and non economic. "It is opportunities and encouraging up to the Chicago leaders to push more and more women and sec- their claim. Nothing is decided so ond generation participation. far but there are other cities in the The Chicago press meet was country staking their claim to host organized by a group of VHP vol- the 2018 Convention," he said.

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Celebrating India in the heart of San Francisco Spring India Day! India Post News Service

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hou art wisdom, thou art law, Thou art heart, our soul, our breath Though art love divine, the awe; In our hearts that conquers death.

Dark fields waving Mother of might, Mother free!! Vande Mataram!! - Rabindranath Tagore On June 6th, Union Square, San Francisco showcased India in it's cultural best with full fanfare and galore hosted by WomenNow TV. Incidentally, this was the very first time such an event representing India occurred in the history of the city at Union Square.

The vision of promoting the Indian identity in it's essence compelled Ena Sarkar, Founder, CEO & Executive Producer, WomenNow TV to embark on a herculean project - Spring India Day event - in the San Francisco Bay Area at the historically rich and prestigious Union Square venue in downtown San Francisco. She was ecstatic at the honored opportunity of being the first one undertaking the lofty and

prestigious project in the Bay! What followed was endless

days and nights of conversations, propositions and thought exchange. She was able to bring on board some of the major corporate, community and service sectors to join hands in making this dream a reality.

The Indian Consulate San Francisco patronized the event with full gusto and stood by the Team WomenNow from the beginning to end. Indian Consulate General San Francisco, Ambassador Venkatesan Ashok and his Staff led the Opening Ceremony along with San Francisco District Attorney George Gacon and his wife and various Council Members

from the City offices in the Bay Area, namely Assemblyman David

BAPS Annual Community Walkathon

A

astha Joshi began her Saturday bright and early, eager to contribute to the betterment of her community. For the last 6 weeks, Aastha has dedicated her weekends to raising funds to support the local BAPS Charities Walkathon. Even at the age of 10, she has raised over a thousand dollars!

The annual BAPS Charities Walkathon, held on Saturday, June 20th 2015 at the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, helped raise support for the American Cancer Society (ACS), Special Olympics World Games-

Los Angeles, and the Chino Valley Independent Fire District.

This year, over 900 individuals of all ages joined together to walk in support of the beneficiaries.

Prior to the walk, over 50 participants raced through in a 5K Run to support the causes. The walk commenced with a traditional prayer for world peace and an opening speech by Cynthia Moran, Mayor of Chino Hills, who stated "Year after year, BAPS Charities continues to be dedicated to our community." Chino Hills Councilmembers Art Bennett and Ray Marquez were also present in support of the walk.

San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman presented BAPS Charities with a proclamation on behalf of the County of San Bernardino in appreciation for BAPS Charities contribution to the local community.

For over 100 years, the American Cancer Society (ACS) has worked relentlessly to save lives and create a world with less cancer.

Together with millions of supporters worldwide, ACS helps people stay well and get well, find cures, and fight back against cancer. ACS Representative Dawn O'Neil noted, "I want to thank BAPS Charities on behalf of the American Cancer

Society. Organizations such as these make it possible for research and care for those that have been affected by cancer. " Representative Dave Seltzer, from the Chino Hills Host Committee for the Special Olympics, acknowledged his appreciation to BAPS Charities for their support

wait to participate again in the future, raise even more funds, and continue to spread awareness about issues pertinent to bettering our society.

BAPS Charities aims to selflessly serve society through a variety of social projects and inspire tens of thousands of others to do

for this year's Special Olympics to be held in Southern California.

Battalion Chief Collins, representative from the Chino Valley Independent Fire District, was present to thank BAPS Charities for their on-going support over the years.

Upon completing the walk, Aastha proudly stated "I feel happy that I've done my part to help fight cancer." Aastha cannot

the same. In addition to the 54 such annual walkathons hosted across North America this year, BAPS Charities hosts various programs to support and raise awareness for healthy living, environmental sustainability and educational initiatives around the world.

BAPS Charities strives to sincerely serve the community by improving the quality of lives of individuals and their families.

Chiu, Cupertino Council Member Savita Vaidhyanathan. The inauguration included a passionate rendition of the American National Anthem, the Indian National Anthem followed by a reverent chanting of the Gayatri Mantra.

The WomenNow Cultural Team that worked ceaselessly past few months put up a spectacular show depicting the nuances and splendors of diverse Indian regions and cultures. It was incredibly difficult to short list from a commendable talent pool and an overwhelming interest in participation from the various cultural groups in the Bay! On that day, the massive audience spanning to almost 20, 000 people throughout the course of the day from 11am through 5 pm also had a chance to experience various cultural programs, Yoga, a live Indian wedding in its Vedic essence.

Complimented with the authentic Hindu rituals and mantras.

The cultural teams that participated: Kathak Fusion, LTR Indian Dance Company, KathakChhandam Youth Dance Company, Nukad Naatak - EnActe Arts, California Nupur Dance Academy, Deepika Rao & Group, Bollywood Fusions Desi Rhythms, Anisha Bakshi, Tabla Niketan, MoreUPBEAT Fusions, Tarana Dance Academy, Sthree Productions, Taekwo Nrithya Ushanjali School ofDance &Black TigerTaeKwonDo, KrishnagamanaRamya & group, Nritya Sangama, Smaran Performing Arts, Tufaan, Bhangra Boys, Phuljha diyan, Kriyaa Dance Academy, and Gurus of Dance. In the words of San Jose Councilmemeber Ash Kalra, "Congratulations to the incomparable Ena Sarkar and WomenNow TV for an incredibly successful inaugural Spring India in San Francisco!"

As dusk descended, the city lights glowed on Union Square. The humdrum of the day faded and people dispersed with a bit of India in their hearts. The jubilant city of San Francisco would wait for the next and the years to come to see more of Spring India Day, on the same day, same time.

26

July 10, 2015

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July 10, 2015 www.indiapost.com

TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Jeena Jeena : Badlapur 2 Chittiyaan Kalaiyaan : Roy 3 Jee Karda: Badlapur 4 Khamoshiyan : Khamoshiyan 5 Sooraj Dooba Hai : Roy 30 India Post

www.indiapost.com

July 10, 2015

6 Tu Hai Ki Nahi : Roy 7 Judai : Badlapur 8 Tu Har Lamha : Khamoshiyan 9 Chhil Gaye Naina : NH10

S

he has crooned soft numbers in the past but now actress Shraddha Kapoor is ready to take her singing passion to another level as she is training in rock music for her next film 'Rock On 2'.

The 26-year-old actress made her singing debut with the unplugged version of the song 'Galliyan' in Ek Villain and later lent her voice for Vishal Bhardwaj's Haider.

After the release of her latest film ABCD2 she recorded the unplugged version of 'Bezubaan Phir Se...'.

The young star is "very excited" to work with actor-filmmaker Farhan Akhtar and considers him as one of the most talented people in the film industry.

"Farhan and I were practicing a song recently. It was lovely. He is so funny and so passionate about what he does it's just amazing," she said.

Rock On 2, the much awaited sequel to 2008 hit, will also see Arjun Rampal, Prachi Desai, Shahana Goswami reprising their roles. Director Abhishek Kapoor will not return for the sequel.

10 Dard Karaara : Dum Laga Ke Haisha

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R

ishi Kapoor says he could not recognize yesteryear actress Meenakshi Sheshadri for a moment when he met her after several years. He updated his fans and followers about this on Twitter.

The actor who is working for Shakun Batra's upcoming project 'Kapoor & Sons' took a picture of him and Meenakshi and posted on the micro-blogging site asking fans to guess who the lady was.

"Any guesses who this is? I didn't recognize her for a moment. What a lovely surprise. Name in 30 mins no hints," Rishi tweeted. He got many replies, many of which had the correct answer. The 62-year-old actor then tweeted, "99% got it right. Meenakshi Sheshadri as always whenever in Mumbai pays us a visit unannounced. Looking gorgeous."

"Damini, MS, lives happily with hubby Harish Mysore and 2 kids, girl and a boy in Dallas, U.S. Visiting relatives, can work in film if a good role," Rishi posted.

unny Leone had been the target of rude comments from fellow Btowners Rakhi Sawant and Celina Jaitley, but the 'Ek Paheli Leela' actress gave it back calling them "unprofessional."

Rakhi Sawant who once used to be the reining item girl of Bollywood, found herself in the backburner after the actress of Indo-Canadian origin entered the picture.

She asked Sunny to go back to where she came from saying that the industry is affected by actress like her.

Celina too, not long ago, accused Sunny of keeping her apartment in a mess. Celina had leased out her house to Sunny and her husband Daniel Weber and was not happy at seeing the condition of her place. The 'Janasheen' actress allegedly took legal action against the couple.

During the recent launch event of MTV show 'Splitsvilla', Sunny told reporters that she was not bothered by such "useless and baseless comments."

"It is unprofessional. You would never see an actor or actress speaking bad in the way they have. So it's their problem, I don't care about it. I am here to do good work and I will focus on doing that," she said.

Bollywood

July 10, 2015

www.indiapost.com

I

s Kareena Kapoor Khan getting insecure about her career? Is she will ing to take on any and every part that comes her way, provided the role is opposite a hot-and-happening superstar? Sources close to the Eid blockbuster Bajrangi Bhaijaan claim Kareena has a negligible part in the film.

Says a member of the film's core team, "The actual leading lady of Bajrangi Bhaijaan is the little girl Harshaali Malhotra. Bebo is not there for more than 10-15 minutes. The core drama of the film is about Salman's character and the little girl who journey together from India to Pakistan. If there is a third character who is important, it is Nawazuddin Siddiqui who accompanies Salman and the girl."

Apparently, Kareena's role is brief enough to qualify as a "guest appearance" in Bajrangi Bhaijaan. However, Amar Butala COO of Salman Khan Films negates the same saying, "Kareena Kapoor has a very strong role in Bajrangi Bhaijaan and she is integral to the plot of the film."

W

hile his juniors are getting hitched and many have even started families, Salman Khan is blissfully single even at 49. But guess what?

The superstar is now open to even an arranged marriage.

But the big bummer is that he says he isn't getting any marriage proposals. He must be joking, right?

"Nobody has sent me a proposal! If somebody does send me one, I will seriously consider it. I am open to arranged marriage. Sometimes, love marriages don't work and arranged marriages do. And sometimes, it's the other way around. It depends on the individuals, how they go about their lives, how compatible they are," Salman Khan is quoted as saying in a DNA interview.

Salman Khan has dated some of the stunning beauties of Bollywood like Sangeeta Bijlani, Somy Ali, Aishwarya Rai and Katrina Kaif.

T

iger Shroff confirms he has been ap proached to appear in martial arts movie star Jackie Chan's upcoming action-adventure film 'Kung Fu Yoga', but he hasn't taken a call on it yet.

"Yes, I have been approached for a role in Kung Fu Yoga. The talks are on but I haven't signed the film yet," Tiger Shroff said at an event in Mumbai.

Calling Jackie Chan as his inspiration, Tiger says that if the film happens it will be a dream come true for him. Before Tiger, the film was offered to superstar Aamir Khan when he was in China but due to his commitment for Dangal, he had to leave the project.

As of now, Tiger is busy doing Baaghi: A Rebel For Love.

Before Tiger, the film was offered to superstar Aamir Khan when he was in China but due to his commitment for Dangal

T

he Mohammed Azharuddin biopic, with Emraan Hashmi play ing the cricketer, has been hunting for a suitable actress to play his second biwi, Sangeeta Bijlani for months and has now got the thumbs up from Nargis Fakhri. "I'm intrigued by the story, both excited and nervous. Azhar is a new space for me to explore, a new challenge for me," Nargis says.

Having been born and brought up abroad, she is now watching films, like Tridev, Hathyar and Jurm in which Sangeeta played roles.

The role got the thumbs down from other actresses like Kareena Kapoor and Jacqueline Fernandez. Did that give her second thoughts?

"If I like something I say yes, if I don't I say no," she stated simply. "It makes life easy when you trust yourself with your decisions and not worry about what others are doing."

Emraan Hashmi's last few films haven't done well commercially.

Does that make her apprehensive? Nargis has the last laugh: "In that case, he is due for a hit and hopefully this will be it!"

"If I like something I say yes, if I don't I say no," she stated simply. "It makes life easy when you trust yourself with your decisions and not worry about what others are doing."

India Post 31

„ Health

Line

Cardiologist pleads not guilty to fraud ALBUQUERQUE, N.M.: A Santa Fe cardiologist accused of health care fraud and wire fraud has pleaded not guilty.

Prosecutors say 51-year-old Roy G. Heilbron was arraigned in federal court in Albuquerque on a 24-count indictment.

He's been released on his own recognizance.

The indictment alleges that Heilbron executed a scheme to defraud Medicare and other health care benefit programs by submitting false and fraudulent claims between January 2010 and May 2011.

Heilbron allegedly inserted false symptoms, observations and diagnoses into patients' medical charts to provide written support for the tests he ordered or performed and submitted claims to health plans for procedures that were never performed.

Prosecutors say Heilbron could face up to 10 years on the health care fraud charges and up to 20 years on the wire fraud charges. AP

„ Yoga reduces risk of inflammatory diseases NEW DELHI: Yoga practitioners are at lesser risk of developing inflammation that could lead to cardiovascular diseases, cancer and Alzheimer, a study by Indian Institute of Science (IIS) has revealed.

Inflammation is body's response to an injury and involves secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (cell-signaling proteins) in the blood to combat the injury.

The study found that regular exercise in the form of yoga can help optimize the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines - Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) alpha and Interleukin-6 (IL-6).

The results of the research indicate that yoga, which enhances mind-body relaxation achieved through a combination of proper breathing, meditation and physical exercises, can help keep TNFalpha and IL-6 at optimal levels.

This is necessary for regulating the body's immune response to an injury or infection.

At the same time, an imbalance in levels of TNF-alpha and IL-6 can be harmful as excess amounts during chronic inflammation can lead to harmful effects like pro-tumor effects. Proinflammatory cytokines can act as a double edged sword if not kept in check. -PTI

Health Science www.indiapost.com

32 India Post

July 10, 2015

Cherokee chief hopes to focus on health care Details on Page 35

After court ruling, Obama says more to do on health care NASHVILLE, Tenn.: President Barack Obama says he wants to refocus on improving health care quality, expanding access and rooting out waste now that the Supreme Court has upheld a key element of his health care law.

Obama was touting the Affordable Care Act at an elementary school in Nashville, Tennessee.

He was speaking on the heels of the high court ruling on insurance subsidies in states that didn't set up their own health care exchange.

Obama says he's ``feeling pretty good'' about how his health care law is going. But he says there are still ``huge areas of improvement.''

The president says now that the law is settled, he hopes both parties will come together to make further improvements. He's calling on Republican-led states that refused to expand Medicaid to reverse course.

Obama said he wants to refocus the debate on improving health care quality, expanding access and eliminating waste now that the high court has upheld a key element of the Affordable Care Act. ``I'm feeling pretty good about how health care is going,'' Obama said before he removed his suit jacket and answered questions about health care from Tennesse-

ans seated at tables in an elementary school cafeteria.

Obama's choice to visit Tennessee was deliberate. The state's Republican governor, Bill Haslam, tried to expand Medicaid under the health care law to cover more than 200,000 state residents - only to be stymied by state legislators of

to expand Medicaid to cover millions more low-income Americans in their states.

About 20 states, most of them led by Republican governors and including some heavily populated places like Florida and Texas, have refused to expand Medicaid.

Obama has accused them of los-

President Barack Obama speaks at Taylor Stratton Elementary School in Nashville, Tenn. The president is in Nashville to speak about the Affordable Care Act.

his own party.

Obama argued to his audience - and during a Twitter questionand-answer session immediately after the event - that health care coverage rates could be vastly improved if more governors and lawmakers would accept the federal government's offer of billions of dollars of federal money to pay

ing sight of what's good for their constituents. ``I think because of politics not all states have taken advantage of the options that are out there,'' he said. ``Our hope is that more of them do.''

The Supreme Court handed Obama a major victory on health care when it upheld federal finan-

cial aid to millions of low- and middle-income Americans to help pay for insurance premiums regardless of where they live.

Obama declared immediately after the ruling that the law is ``here to stay.'' He cited progress under its provisions but said more work was needed to ``make health care in America even better.'' In Nashville, he talked about making sure people know about the law's benefits, including free preventive care, help for seniors on prescription medication and prohibitions on insurers denying coverage based on a prior illness.

While Obama talked up what he says is good about the law, the law's Republican opponents highlighted what they say is bad about it. ``The latest Supreme Court ruling won't change Obamacare's multitude of broken promises, including the one that resulted in millions of Americans losing the coverage they had and wanted to keep,'' Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., said. ``And the ruling won't change the skyrocketing costs in premiums, deductibles, and co-pays that have hit the middle class so hard over the last few years.''

Obama surrounded himself with two women who shared their health care stories in letters to him.

Cont'd on Page 35

Cadaver liver split saves two lives NEW DELHI: In a rare surgery, doctors at a city hospital split cadaver liver of a 32-yearold brain dead patient and gave one lobe each to two persons in dire need of a liver transplant, thus giving them a fresh lease of life.

The donor had sustained brain hemorrhage in Dubai in May this year and was operated upon there but to no avail. He was shifted to Indraprastha Apollo hospitals in India where neuro surgeons declared him brain dead at arrival, said Dr Shaleen Agarwal, senior con-

sultant at the department of Liver Transplant Surgery at

"Cadaveric liver are very rarely split and used for two adults with advanced liver disease as the left lobe is the smaller portion and may not be enough to sustain the person,"

Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals.

His family consented to donate his organs and doctors split his liver and gave one lobe to a 29year-old man from Jalandhar who suffered from chronic alcoholic liver failure and had been on the transplant list for five months.

According to the doctors, he would not have survived if he hadn't been operated upon in next two-three months.

The other half of the liver went to a 42-year-old woman, a Delhiite who had a chronic liver failure and was on the transplant list for a year.

Explaining the uniqueness of

the case, Dr Subash Gupta, Chief Liver Surgeon at the hospital said that as the two parts of a liver are not equal, surgeons use the right half for an adult patient and the other half for a small child.

"Cadaveric liver are very rarely split and used for two adults with advanced liver disease as the left lobe is the smaller portion and may not be enough to sustain the person," said Dr Gupta.

In this case the doctors split the liver into two halves before taking it out. -PTI

July 10, 2015

Health Science Post

India Post 33

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India, China suffer heavily due to air pollution KOCHI: India and China suffer over USD 1.89 trillion annually in terms of the value of lives lost and ill health caused from air pollution, according to a report.

Quoting OECD estimates, a new study published in The Lancet says, "The cost of ambient air pollution in terms of the value of lives lost and ill health in OECD countries, plus India and China, to be more than USD 3.5 trillion annually (about 5 per cent gross world product [GWP]), with India and China combined accounting for 54 per cent of this total."

USD 1.89 trillion is the 54 per cent of USD 3.5 trillion.

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is an international economic organization of 34 nations.

In its report released last week, the 2015 Lancet Commission on Health and Climate Change says the implications of climate

change for a global population of nine billion people threatens to undermine the last

Kansas to appeal ruling blocking anti-abortion law TOPEKA, Kan.: Kansas' attorney general plans to appeal a judge's ruling temporarily blocking the state's first-in-the-nation ban on the most common second trimester abortion procedure.

Lawyers representing Attorney General Derek Schmidt filed a notice in Shawnee County District Court saying they intend to ask the state Court of Appeals to overturn the ruling. District Judge Larry Hendricks put the law on hold until he hears a lawsuit filed by the New York-based Center for Reproductive Rights for two Kansas abortion providers.

The law embodies model legislation from the National Right to Life Committee. Oklahoma has a similar law taking effect Nov. 1, enacted shortly after the Kansas statue.

The Kansas law would ban what it and anti-abortion groups call ``dismemberment abortion,'' using forceps, clamps, scissors or similar instruments on a living fetus to remove it from the womb in pieces. Such instruments are used in dilation and evacuation procedures.

The lawsuit said such procedures account for 95 percent of second trimester abortions nationally. Hendricks said the Center for Reproductive Rights is likely to prevail in arguing that the state can't ban the most common second trimester procedure because it places too much of a burden on women seeking to terminate their pregnancies.

Hendricks also said the Kansas Constitution independently protects abortion rights at least as much as the U.S. Constitution - a finding the state's appellate courts previously have not made. The judge initially ruled from the bench after a hearing last week, then issued a written order.

The one-page notice filed by Schmidt's lawyers did not say why he is appealing, and he declined to comment. But his attor-

neys argued in court that legislators consider the banned procedure inhumane and the state has an interest in protecting the dignity of human life.

The case must go first to the Court of

Attorney General Derek Schmidt

Appeals. The parties can ask to have it moved immediately to the Kansas Supreme Court, or the high court can grab it. ``We're disappointed, but at the same time, we're confident Judge Hendricks came to the right decision,'' said Janet Crepps, a senior attorney for the Center for Reproductive Rights. ``We're optimistic that his ruling will be affirmed on appeal.''

The abortion rights group is representing father-daughter Drs. Herbert Hodes and Traci Nauser, who perform abortions at their women's health center in the Kansas City suburb of Overland Park. They sued Schmidt and Johnson County District Attorney Steve Howe because they have the authority to prosecute the doctors for violating the law. -AP

half century of gains in development and global health.

Describing the Lancet study as "a very important document that summarizes the impact of climate change on our health a n d wellbeing", renowned climate expert C h a n d r a Bhushan said, "It is quite clear from the report that India is and will be one of the worst affected regions of the world due to climate change."

"Climate change will wipe out all the gains the country has made in the last 3-4 decades in poverty alleviation and the heath sector," warns Bhushan, who is also Deputy Director General of Delhi-based advocacy group Centre for Science and

Environment (CSE).

The report says there is a clear and compelling need for the industrialized world to achieve faster and much deeper emission reductions than anything delivered to date. It also speaks about the need to provide international assistance to countries like India, which struggle to uplift millions of poor from extreme poverty.

Noting that industrialization historically has been accompanied by rising greenhouse gas emissions (particularly CO2) up to income levels of USD 10-15000 per capita, the report says, "Some of the major emerging economies are already reaching such levels, with concomitant emissions; helping others to avoid doing so, or helping those (like India) still with huge challenges to lift hundreds of millions of people out of extreme poverty, will require international assistance."

Bhushan, a key negotiator in global climate summits, said the world must come together quickly and cooperate.

"Developed countries which have the financial and technical resources must take the lead help developing countries adapt as well mitigate climate change. Developing countries should reorient their development trajectory towards low-carbon growth," he told PTI here. -PTI

34 India Post

Health Science Post

July 10, 2015

www.indiapost.com

Innovations will help improve health services: Nadda NEW DELHI: Union Health Minister J P Nadda has appealed to states to give "priority" to innovations and adopt best practices for achieving "superior outcomes" in the health care sector of the country.

"Superior outcomes in health care in India will be better achieved with innovations in health practices and products, and I urge states to give priority to innovations and best practices," Nadda said.

He was speaking at the inaugural session of the three-day national summit on 'Best Practices and Innovations in Healthcare in India' in Shimla.

Noting that "formidable" challenges still need to be addressed in many states due to lack of sturdy infrastructure, shortage of skilled manpower and procurement issues, Nadda said that the National Health Mission has achieved significant and commendable health outcomes covering reduction in Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) and Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR).

The Health Minister reiterated

that the Centre is committed to providing all assistance and resources to the states in achieving health outcomes which are "dependent on a sturdy and meaningful partnership between the states and the Centre."

Nadda said that the summit is an effort to systematically identify innovations which can have a high impact to address morbidity and mortality and facilitate their prompt scale up through a platform.

Principal health secretaries and mission directors of NHM from the states are taking part in the three-day summit.

Elaborating about immunization program 'Mission Indradhanush', Nadda said that three rounds of the Mission have been completed and the fourth round will commence on July 7.

He said that the campaign has resulted in immunization of more than 57 lakh children and more than eight lakh pregnant women while about 14.5 lakh children have been fully immunized against seven vaccine preventable diseases.

Recognizing the work of frontline health workers, Nadda asserted that their inputs should be taken in designing innovations and drafting best practices.

The Union minister said that

schemes for the benefit of the masses.

As many as 110 innovations and best practices are also being showcased in the summit. Nadda also released guidelines prepared

Union Health Minister J P Nadda

the country under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership is progressing on the path of a "constructive cooperative federalism" where the states are taking the lead in designing and implementing programs and

by the Union Health Ministry for the 'Rogi Kalyan Samitis' functioning in the states and for disbursal of free drugs in the states.

He also gave away awards for best practices from various states. The award for maternal

health outcomes was given to Maharashtra, followed by Andhra Pradesh and Haryana.

In the category of Newborn Survival, Kerala bagged the first prize, while the second and third were given away to Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.

Nadda said that "systematically identified innovations" can have a high impact in addressing the problems of morbidity and mortality.

The summit was an effort to systematically identify innovations that can have a high impact to address morbidity and mortality and facilitate their prompt scale up through a platform, which would provide repository, learnings, information on enabling milieu and cross-learnings.

Addressing the participants, the Union minister stated that while health is a state subject, the Centre is committed to provide all assistance and resources to the states in achieving health outcomes which are dependent on a sturdy and meaningful partnership between the states and the Centre.-PTI

Medicaid must cover child The blue-eyed more likely to become alcoholics behavioral treatments OMAHA, Neb.: A judge ordered the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services to stop excluding Medicaid coverage of certain behavioral treatments for children with developmental disabilities, saying the policy conflicts with federal law.

Lancaster County District Judge John Colburn issued the

use of verbal communication, ability to tolerate frustration and reduce aggression and tantrums.

In the case of S.L., a 6-year-old boy, the treatment was prescribed to help prevent his aggressive and self-injurious behavior and prolong his life. Without the treatment, his doctor said, the boy is at risk of being institutionalized

Kathie Osterman, a spokeswoman for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, said the agency is reviewing the judge's order and working with the Nebraska Attorney General's Office to determine its next steps. order Tin a lawsuit filed on behalf of two children, listed only as ``K.D.'' and ``S.L.'', who are covered by Medicaid and suffer from severe behavioral disorders.

The lawsuit says the children's doctors recommended a treatment called applied behavior analysis to help them reach their full potential and be less likely to be institutionalized.

In the case of K.D., an autistic 7-year-old boy, a doctor said the treatment would help the boy's

for the rest of his life.

But the state agency's contractor, Magellan Health Services, denied Medicaid coverage for the treatments, enforcing a state regulation that says applied behavior analysis is excluded from coverage.

According to court records, S.L. has not received the prescribed applied behavior analysis and his ``behaviors have become so severe that he now resides in an extended family home.''

Colburn sided with the families

of the boys, saying the state regulation violates federal law that requires Medicaid to cover such services deemed medically necessary. The judge issued summary judgment for the plaintiffs and ordered the state to stop enforcing the exclusion.

Colburn also certified the case as a class action, meaning it applies to all children similarly situated to the plaintiffs.

The order drew praise from public advocacy group Nebraska Appleseed. ``This ruling is an important victory for Nebraska families with children who have been wrongfully denied access to essential mental and behavioral health treatments that were recommended by their doctors,'' said Sarah Helvey, Nebraska Appleseed's legal director. ``The court's ruling will allow more children to get the care they need to have the best possible future.''

Kathie Osterman, a spokeswoman for the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, said the agency is reviewing the judge's order and working with the Nebraska Attorney General's Office to determine its next steps.-AP

WASHINGTON: People with blue eyes might have a greater chance of becoming alcoholics, according to an interesting new study.

The study by researchers at the University of Vermont in the US is the first to make a direct connection between a person's eye color and alcohol dependence.

"This suggests an intriguing possibility - that eye color can be useful in the clinic for alcohol dependence diagnosis," said Arvis Sulovari, a doctoral student in cellular, molecular and biological sciences.

The researchers found that primarily European Americans with light-colored eyes - including green, grey and brown in the centre - had a higher incidence of alcohol dependency than those with dark brown eyes, with the strongest tendency among blue-eyed individuals.

The study outlines the genetic components that determine eye color and shows that they line up along the same chromosome as the genes related to excessive alcohol use.

Assistant Professor of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics Dawei Li has worked with physi-

cians and scientists to build a clinical and genetic database of more than 10,000 individuals, mostly African Americans and European Americans, diagnosed with at least one psychiatric illness.

Many have multiple diagnoses of diseases, including depression, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, as well as addiction and alcohol or drug dependence.

From that extensive database, Li's and Sulovari's study filtered out the alcohol-dependent patients with European ancestry, a

total of 1,263 samples.

After Sulovari noticed the eyecolor connection, they retested their analysis three times, arranging and rearranging the groups to compare age, gender and different ethnic or geographic backgrounds, such as southern and northern parts of the continent.

The research is published in the American Journal of Medical Genetics: Neuropsychiatric Genetics (Part B). -PTI

Health Science Post

July 10, 2015

India Post 35

www.indiapost.com

Cherokee chief hopes to focus on health care TULSA, Okla.: After coasting to an easy victory in the race for principal chief of the Cherokee Nation, Bill John Baker said he hopes to strengthen the changes he made during his first four years in office, including increasing access to health care and creating more jobs.

Bill John Baker

The Cherokees operate the largest tribally owned health care system in the nation, and Baker poured $100 million from casino profits into health clinic expansion and renovations during his first term. Baker credits his attention to health benefits for his decisive win last weekend, when he defeated ex-chief Chad Smith and two others to avoid a runoff after picking up 55 percent of the vote. ``Four years ago, everybody agreed that

health care was at a crisis point and was the most important thing the Cherokee leader could do for the Cherokee people,'' Baker told The Associated Press in an interview. ``I think Cherokees were tired of the ... campaigning process of the past, and I think they were ready to hear the good news, and they could see it all around them.''

Still, he and the tribe face major problems. Poverty is rampant across the tribe's vast and largely rural 14county jurisdiction in northeastern Oklahoma, and travel to health care clinics remains difficult in some areas. Hundreds of families rely on food stamps.

American Indians also have long had lower life expectancy rates than other races in the U.S. As principal chief, Baker leads a tribe of 320,000 people, a workforce of 9,000 and controls a budget approaching $1 billion.

He also oversees the tribe's lucrative casino operations and negotiates tribal agreements, also known as compacts, with state leaders and others.

With the tribe's health and casino businesses expanding, Baker said he hopes to

After court ruling, Obama says more to do on health care Cont'd from Page 32

Accompanying the president aboard the Air Force One flight was Natoma Canfield, an Ohio cancer survivor who wrote in 2009 about being forced to drop her health insurance after she could no longer afford the monthly premium.

After arriving in Tennessee, Obama made room in his limousine for Kelly Bryant, of Nashville, who wrote about finding affordable insurance under the law to treat her breast cancer. He picked her up on the way to the event, even holding an umbrella to shield her from a pounding rain. ``I never imagined in my wildest dreams that anyone would read it, let alone him,'' Bryant said to introduce the president. ``I am living proof of a president who listens and cares about the American people.''

Asked about the lack of Medicaid expansion in Tennessee, Obama lamented the politics he said are at play and urged lawmakers to find a ``uniquely Tennessee solution.'' ``It is unfortunate that getting

this thing done got so political,'' he said. ``Washington is kind of a crazy place. But that doesn't mean every place has got to be crazy.'' -AP

use the financial benefit to put more Cherokees on the tribe's payroll. The tribe's renewed effort of having members build homes for fellow Cherokees will also put more tribal members to work in laborer and construction positions, Baker said.

Smith, who ran the tribe for a dozen years

before Baker defeated him in 2011, disputed the notion that Cherokee health care has improved. Smith said Baker is trying to cement a political legacy rather than focus on difficulties still plaguing the system, such as recruiting and keeping doctors and staff to work in rural clinics. -AP

„

Realty Tidbits

Realty directors booked for not delivering in time CHANDIGARH: Haryana police has registered a case against four directors of a Gurgaon-based real estate firm for allegedly not giving possession of flats to customers in time.

The company had collected "huge sum" of money from the customers promising them flats.

However, inquiries revealed construction work was yet to commence, a police official said.

One of the accused lives in Gurgaon while the rest are Delhi residents.

The Gurgaon District Town Planner Enforcement made a written complaint to the police against the directors of the company contending they had violated the rules of the projects for which they had secured licenses, he added.

All the accused are still at large, the official said, adding, efforts were on to nab the accused. -PTI

„

For the first time, ED attaches land in US in loan fraud case

AHMEDABAD: In the first such action, the Enforcement Directorate(ED) has attached 1,280 acres of land in the US in connection with one of the biggest bank loan frauds in this country.

The unprecedented move to attach the land in California worth Rs 10 billion was initiated by the ED's Ahmedabad zonal unit.

"ED Indore attaches under PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) 1,280 acres of land in California, USA, of Zoom Developers Pvt Ltd and Vijay Chaudhary in bank fraud cases," the central agency tweeted.

ED officials said that it is for the first time that the agency had taken such an action in the US. Indore falls under the jurisdiction of ED, Ahmedabad.

ED officials said this was one of the biggest bank loan frauds in the country. After suspecting the role played by some of the banks in granting loans, the CBI had also initiated a separate probe, they said.

Zoom Developers, promoted

by Vijay Chaudhary, operates from Indore and Mumbai. Chaudhary, who is allegedly absconding, had taken loans totalling Rs 22 billion from various banks for realty projects in Europe. However, no project was ever undertaken and the money was allegedly siphoned off by Chaudhary.

Last month, one of the directors of the company, Sharad Kabra, was arrested by the Indore ED. An arrest warrant has also been issued against Chaudhary. -PTI

Real Estate 36 India Post

www.indiapost.com

July 10, 2015

Godrej Properties to develop new housing project in Bengaluru NEW DELHI: Realty firm Godrej Properties said, it will develop a new residential project in Bengaluru.

Godrej Properties, the real estate development arm of the Godrej Group, has "added a new project off Kankapura Road, in South Bengaluru to its development portfolio", the company said in a statement.

The SPV Godrej Home Constructions Pvt Ltd will be developing a mid-income residential housing project over about 18 acres. -PTI

US construction spending rises 0.8 percent WASHINGTON: U.S. construction spending posted a solid gain in May, pushing total activity to the highest point since the fall of 2008, with the strength led by a big jump in non-residential projects.

Total construction spending increased 0.8 percent in May, following an even bigger 2.1 percent advance in April, the Commerce Department reported. The gains pushed totaled activity to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $1.04 trillion, the highest level since October 2008.

All major categories showed increases in May, led by a 1.5 percent rise in non-residential building, which reflected increases in spending on hotels, manufacturing facilities and amusement parks. Residential construction was up a more modest 0.3 percent.

Spending on government projects rose 0.7 percent.

Construction activity is expected to be a source of strength this year, helping the economy to accelerate after a soft patch at the beginning of the year.

The 0.3 percent rise in residential building matched the April gain

and was led by a 0.9 percent rise in spending on renovation projects. Spending on single-family homes was flat, while spend-

spending on government projects was led by a 6.3 percent surge at the federal level and a smaller 0.2 percent increase in spending on

Construction workers secure a steel apparatus to a crane that will be used on the roof of the Oculus structure at the World Trade Center transportation hub, in New York.

ing on apartment projects edged up 0.2 percent in May. The 1.5 percent rise in non-residential construction followed sizable gains of 4 percent in April and 3.3 percent in March.

The 0.7 percent advance in

state and local building projects.

The economy went into reverse during the January-March quarter, shrinking at an annual rate of 0.2 percent, as consumer spending, construction and other economic activities were hurt by the

unusually severe winter. But economists believe growth posted a solid rebound in the April-June quarter, predicting the economy expanded at an annual rate of 2 percent or better. They are forecasting even faster growth of around 3 percent in the second half of the year.

Both the commercial and residential real estate markets appear stronger this year. Almost 60 percent of the real estate executives participating in a recent survey by the law firm Akerman LLP said they were more optimistic about the market than in 2014.

Developers say they are betterfunded and finding more opportunities in the residential, commercial and retail sectors. The job growth over the past year has been substantial enough for some builders to launch office projects without pre-existing rental commitments. ``It's fueled by the feeling that the job growth is there, and tenants have need for more space because of new employees,'' said Richard Bezold, who is chairman of Akerman's real estate practice. AP

Housing market tough on first-time homebuyers SIOUX FALLS, S.D.: Firsttime homebuyers are hoping a personal touch can help them nab a house in a tight market.

Homes under $200,000 are selling quickly - sometimes within hours, in bidding wars and over asking price, area real estate agents say. They credit that to low inventory and good interest rates.

In an effort to stand out, some buyers are writing letters, explaining why they deserve a particular home and how they would care for it, the Argus Leader reported.

Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn't, says Colleen Hines, an agent with Ameri/

Star. ``They are doing all sorts of

are in good condition go fast, she says, often getting an offer in the

things to be creative,'' Hines says.

Homes that are priced right and

first few days on the market.

The demand for homes lies in

all price ranges, but is particularly high in homes under $200,000, which are typically where first-time buyers are going.

New listings are down about 11 percent for May, the most recent month available in the Realtor Association market report.

The report also showed that the median sale price rose 4.4 percent year over year, from $171,875 to $179,450.

Homes are sitting on the market - from listing to closing - for just shy of three months right now, the report said, and sellers are averaging 98 percent of asking price.

Cont’d on page 37

Real Estate Post

July 10, 2015

India Post 37

www.indiapost.com

Grand opening of Kingswood in Dublin DUBLIN, Calif.: You're invited to the Model Grand Opening of Kingswood in Dublin on Saturday, July 25!This is your chance to tour the three newly furnished models and discover what Landsea Homes' new community of luxury townhomes at Jordan Ranch is all about. Visit the Welcome House today for preview opportunities and don't forget to attend the Model Grand Opening on July 25 to celebrate the comforts of home.

Somewhere between the vast horizons and emerald hillsides, Kingswood welcomes you to a beautiful life. Spacious and smart townhomes add to your well-being and sense of success with open designs ranging from 1,666 to 2,123 square feet with up to four bedrooms and three-and-one-half baths. From sunny decks to con-

venient two-car attached garages and beautiful appointments, every detail is designed for you. New townhomes at Kingswood are

with Kingswood's incredible array of features. Magnificent kitchens boast stainless steel KitchenAidÂŽ appliances, granite slab

priced from the low $700,000s.

The comfort of home begins

countertops and stunningly crafted cabinetry, while luxurious

master suites afford large walk-in closets, dual vanities and oversized showers. Additional features include soaring nine-foot ceilings, energy-efficient tankless water heaters and eco-friendly Nest Learning Thermostats™.

In the heart of Dublin, Kingswood at Jordan Ranch is where wide open spaces, panoramic surroundings and homegrown community invite you to call each day your own. Parks and walking paths are steps away, highly acclaimed Dublin schools are around the corner and natural beauty thrives in every detail. Plus, just minutes away the brand new BART station simplifies life and keeps you close to everything the area has to offer.

The Kingswood Welcome House is open daily from 11:00 am

to 6:00 pm. Kingswood is located at 2200 Central Parkway, Dublin, California 94568. For more details, please visit LandseaHomes.com.

Landsea's vision for home reaches beyond borders and beyond homebuilding because we understand that home is more than an address - it's where you find comfort every day. It begins with an everlasting green company, a mission pioneered by the company's rich legacy as a leading international builder using green technology. Since our founding in 2001, the company has been building homes that strive toward innovation, blending our unique international experience and advanced knowledge of technology with local expertise to present a distinctly better home to you and your family.

Becoming a landlord: Do you have what it takes

T

he buzz is building around income property once again, and for good reason: The economy continues to recover, mortgage rates remain low, homes are appreciating and legions of baby boomers are downsizing and scouting post-retirement income opportunities.

"Typically, they're either thinking about renting their own place

or acquiring another home and turning their current residence into a rental," she explains. "Some simply want to hold on to their current home in an up market."

When wannabes ask Wente whether she thinks they're landlord material, she replies with a short quiz of her own.

"First, I ask them if they'd mind getting a call on a Saturday morn-

ing with a toilet emergency. Or at 11 o'clock at night because the air conditioning isn't working. Or when they're out of town," she says.

"Even if they say 'no,' I still recommend a management company. I've had clients try to do without, and it just becomes too much."

Chances are, your rental will be vacant from time to time," Wente says. "Your next renter rarely

comes walking in the next day."

How easily can you weather those non revenue spells?

Fair Housing laws: The federal Fair Housing Act prohibits housing discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability and the presence of children. "Knowing the law will help you stay in complete compliance with regard to safety issues," says

Wente. " Not knowing will not protect you from legal action."

"This business is about managing people and managing conflict," he says. "Finding the right tenants, screening them, dealing with the different personalities and having to fight to get rent or deal with collections -- most people just aren't cut out for that." Bankrate.com

Mahindra Lifespaces venture into Housing market tough on first-time homebuyers affordable housing CHENNAI: Realty player Mahindra Lifespaces, part of Mahindra Group, is looking at setting up residential projects in states like Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh under the affordable housing space.

The Mumbai-based company announced two projects in Mumbai and Chennai under 'Happinest' offering one and two BHK (Bedroom, Hall, Kitchen) categories.

Elaborating about the plans, Mahindra Lifespaces, Business Head-Happinest, Sriram Mahadevan said the company is looking at revised affordable housing policies to be announced b "We are currently concentrating on Maharashtra. Also, we are looking at revised affordable housing policies in some of the states.

One of the key factors is how the approval process is going to shape up," he told PTI, here.

"Whichever state addresses this and comes out with new affordable housing policy provid-

ing the right enabling atmosphere (for us), we are looking at those states", he said.

"Some of the states which have discussed with various stakeholders, including us, for formulating affordable housing policies are Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. These will comprise of Happinest kind of

phase of the projects.

"Now we are launching the second phase which comprises 176 units predominantly consisting of 1 BHK flats", he said.

Happinest is spread across 13 acres and the project comprises 1,200 units. The size of residential apartments range from 396 square feet to 677 square feet.

projects", he said.

On the company's maiden project coming up Avadi here, Mahadevan said the company had sold more than 350 units of the total of 604 units in the first

The company announced its foray in Karnataka with the launch of premium residential project "Windchimes" on Bannerghatta Main Road in Bengaluru, recently. -PTI

Cont’d from page 36

The strong seller's market is a national trend, says Dawn Aspaas, the president-elect for the Realtor Association of the Sioux Empire Inc. ``Interest rates are fabulous,'' Aspaas said. ``I don't know the exact reason other than buyers are deciding with interest rates, it's time to move.''

In Sioux Falls, Aspaas recently took a buyer to see a newly listed home, but it had sold by the time they arrived.

Melissa Eberhard knows the struggles first hand. She recently bought a home near McKennan Park after looking at five other homes. ``It was insane. There were at least three or four other people waiting to go through the house,'' she said.

What Eberhard learned is that homebuyers need to know what they want. After touring the house, Eberhard and the real estate agents went straight to the office to write an offer - it was the fourth one the homeowners received.

The sellers took an extra night to decide what offer to go with, leaving Eberhard on edge. ``The real estate agents said it's important to think about how this house (fits) you and what you think it's worth,'' she said. ``Don't look at what it's listed but what I would pay for it.''

Because of the high demand, sellers are getting at least asking price, and sometimes more, particularly when there are multiple offers. Hines says buyers need to move fast. ``They just can't sit around anymore,'' Hines says. ``They have to jump right in and make their offer.

It's hard for them.''

Aspaas advises buyers to be diligent on what they need and to be prepared. They should get their finances pre-approved, have their paperwork done and know how much they want to spend. ``There is no time in this market to wait,'' Aspaas said. ``Buyers need to sit down with their real estate agent and let the Realtor work with them and find exactly what they are looking for.'' -AP

Horoscope

38 India Post

July 10, 2015

www.indiapost.com

Your Weekly Future

by Pandit Parashar July 10th - July 17th 2015 (March 21 to April 20)

S

uddenly you will feel kind of liberated. New doors will open and you will quickly grab the offer. Money wise things will stay in your favor and all your financial decisions will hit the mark. Some of you may visit a neighboring town to attend an important meeting. Long awaited clearance from a government agency may also come.

(April 21 to May 20)

S

ome of you will move to another beautiful place.

Some money may go towards minor repairs to one of your vehicle. You will enjoy party arranged by a close relative this week. Try to cut down on spicy food if possible. Right eye may continue to give some trouble. Some one close may make an unreasonable demand, just ignore it.

(May 21 to June 20)

P

eople prone to blood pressure problems should be careful and protect them selves from severe hot weather this week. You may frequently call a government agency for favor. Money wise new opportunity will come on a silver platter and expenses will stay under check. Patience will pay off and one of your main competition will move away.

(June 21 to July 22)

Y

ou may not be too sure whether to grab the opportu nity or to ignore it. Financial rewards will be associated with unforeseen risks. Advise from a matured and trusted person will be helpful. You may also cancel your plans to buy another vehicle for the time being. Company of children will bring energy and happiness back in your life.

(July 23 to August 22)

(November 23 to December 22)

P

lanets will help to regain control over your life and once again put you back in driving seat. Jupiter's moving on your sign will help you a lot for next one year. You will receive help and guidance from people holding important positions in government. Business will pick up all of a sudden and a major contract will get signed.

(August 23 to September 22)

A

nd you will have more than enough extra time on hand. Try not to waste it.

Some of you will be traveling away from home for pleasure. It will be an expensive week by all means. You may do little shopping for your self and may buy some high tech items. Avoid taking any hasty decisions about career and a new relationship.

(September 23 to October 22)

Y

ou may hit some road blocks. Any change in career at this point will be good. Otherwise also things will get more relaxing at existing place because of recent change in management. Do not sign any contract or legal document without understanding completely. Property deal may bring in much needed extra cash in your pockets.

(October 23 to November 22)

G

round may start shaking a bit in career and you may quickly start looking for a possible change. Old health issue may flare up again and this time you may try a new doctor or medicines. Money wise you will continue to stay in comfort zone. You may also dispose off some stocks and pocket the money. Party will be relaxing.

PANDIT PARASHAR, CEO & COO Astro Scan USA is also available for individual consultations.

He can be reached at: parashar@parashar.com

T

hings will change suddenly for betterment. New opportu nity will bring confidence back. Your image in social circle will sky rocket. meetings with people with political connections will go well and you will get what you want. There will be an addition in the family soon. Some of you may change or cancel travel plans.

(December 22 to January 19)

T

here will be big improvement in ongoing overseas projects. Spouse will feel better with new medication. A relationship may become permanent.Letter you write this week will get the job done quickly. you may still call a matured person to seek his valuable advise. bank balance will shot up.

People in business will do extremely well.

(January 20 to February 18)

N

ew deal will provide much needed boost to finances and increase your profit margins. Advise will come from a trusted person. You may also dispose off profit making stocks and pocket the money for the time being. Some of you may start a new venture in partnership with a successful person.

You will take family out to a nice place.

(February 19 to March 20)

B

ig changes at work may not affect you right away but will ultimately make you look for a change. Do not allow anybody to take undue advantage of your good nature and generosity. If you make an effort you can get your bills down and may even get a refund. Some of you may take a short trip to neighboring town to meet a close relative.

510-886-4370 www.parashar.com

July 10, 2015

www.indiapost.com

India Post 39

40 India Post

www.indiapost.com

July 10, 2015

Bomdila

T

he small town of Tawang is located amidst the eastern Himalayan ranges. It is fa mous for its 400-year-old monastery. This monastery is one of the biggest Buddhist monasteries to be found in India and is an important pilgrim center for the followers of Buddhism. Apart from its religious importance, Tawang is famous for its natural beauty, which attracts and enchants the traveler.

The origin of the Tawang monastery can be traced to the mid-17th cen-

tury. A monk, Mera Lama, a contemporary of the fifth Dalai Lama, founded this monastery. The sixth Dalai Lama was born in this monastery. The Tawang Monastery is also known as the 'Galden Namgyal Lhatse.' This monastery is a virtual treasure trove of Tibetan Buddhist culture.

The Parkhang hall within the monastery has a library that houses a good collection of rare Buddhist manuscripts and thanka paintings (traditional Tibetan paintings on cloth). The monastery complex also houses a tow-

ering 18-ft-high gilded statue of the Buddha in the prayer hall. The monastery is situated on a spur about 2 km from the heart of the town.

Tawang provides the traveler with panoramic view of the eastern Himalayas. The area around Tawang is suitable for trekking and hiking.

Tawang is adjacent to border with Bhutan. The weather in Tawang is alpine. Summers (April-June) are short and mild, while winters are very cold (November-February). It experiences scant monsoon

rains in July-September. It experiences snowfall in the months of December and January.

History: The origin of Tawang is obscure. It was a part of the kingdom of Tibet in medieval times.

Cont’d on page 42

July 10, 2015

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US probing 'airline collusion' to keep fares high WASHINGTON: The U.S. government is investigating possible collusion among major airlines to limit available seats, which keeps airfares high, according to a document obtained by The Associated Press.

The civil antitrust investigation by the Justice Department appears to focus on whether airlines illegally signaled to each other how quickly they would add new flights, routes and extra seats.

A letter received by major U.S. carriers demands copies of all communications the airlines had with each other, Wall Street analysts and major shareholders about their plans for passenger-carrying capacity, or

U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., requested a Justice Department investigation.

The department had tried to block the most recent merger, the 2013 joining of Fort Worth, Texas-based American Airlines and US Airways, but ultimately agreed to let it proceed after the airlines made minor concessions.

Some Wall Street analysts argue that to remain financially strong, airlines should not expand capacity faster than the U.S. economy. And from January 2010 to January 2014, they didn't.

In that 4-year period, capacity on domestic flights was virtually flat while the U.S.

``the undesirability of your company or any other airline increasing capacity.''

The Justice Department asked each airline for its passenger-carrying capacity both by region, and overall, since January 2010.

Justice Department spokeswoman Emily Pierce confirmed that the department is looking into potential ``unlawful coordination'' among some airlines. She declined to comment further or say which airlines are being investigated. ``We received the letter and are complying,'' United spokesman Luke Punzenberger said. American Airlines also said it would cooperate with the Justice Department.

Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines had no immediate comment. Smaller carriers, including Frontier Airlines, said they had not been contacted by the government.

The airlines publicly discussed capacity early last month in Miami at the International Air Transport Association's annual meeting. After hearing about that meeting,

economy grew about 2.2 percent per year.

From January 2014 to January 2015, however, the airlines expanded by 5.5 percent, topping the economy's 2.4 percent growth for 2014.

Thanks to a series of mergers starting in 2008, American, Delta, Southwest and United now control more than 80 percent of the seats in the domestic travel market.

They've eliminated unprofitable flights, filled more seats on planes and made a very public effort to slow growth to command higher airfares.

It worked. The average domestic airfare rose an inflation-adjusted 13 percent from 2009 to 2014, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. And that doesn't include the billions of dollars airlines collect from new fees. During the past 12 months, the airlines took in $3.6 billion in bag fees and $3 billion in reservationchange fees.

That has led to record profits. In the past

White House allows photos, social media on tours WASHINGTON: Want to take a picture inside the White House landmark Blue Room? Well, it's now OK to pull out your cellphone or camera and press ``shoot.''

The White House has ended a longstanding ban on tourists taking photos or using social media during public tours of the building.

First Lady Michelle Obama made the announcement in a video posted on her Instagram account. ``If you've been on a White House tour, you may have seen this sign,'' she says holding up a placard that states ``No Photos or Social Media Allowed.'' `'Well, not anymore,'' she adds, and then dramatically rips the sign in half.

The White House said the more than 40-

year-old ban was lifted because changes in camera technology make it possible to take high-quality photos using less light. Strong light can damage the delicate pigments used in art work.

Tourists arriving were busily taking pictures. ``I'm very happy they changed the rule.

I'm taking as many as I can,'' said Michael Labrecque, who came to tour the White House from Florida with his wife and their two sons.

Still on the banned list are video cameras, including action camcorders, cameras with detachable lenses, tablets, tripods, monopods and camera sticks. Flash photography and live-streaming also remain prohibited.-AP

two years, U.S. airlines earned a combined $19.7 billion.

This year could bring even higher profits thanks to a massive drop in the price of jet fuel, airlines' single highest expense. In April, U.S. airlines paid $1.94 a gallon, down 34 percent from the year before.

That worries Wall Street analysts and investors. Cheap fuel has led airlines to make money-losing decisions in the past, rapidly expanding, launching new routes and setting unrealistically low fares to lure passengers. Airlines already flying those routes would match the fare, and all carriers would lose money.

Such price wars are long gone, but today's low fuel costs along with recent comments from airline executives have given the market jitters.

Airline stocks plunged in May after the chief financial officer of Dallas-based Southwest said at an industry event that the carrier would increase passenger-carrying capacity by 7 to 8 percent, an increase over an earlier target.

Wolfe Research analyst Hunter Keay, who hosted that May 19 conference, told investors in a note afterward that the big airlines are unhappy to be restraining growth while low-cost airlines like Spirit grow much faster. He urged the major airlines to ``step up'' and cut routes for the good of the industry.

On June 1, Southwest CEO Gary Kelly said his airline would cap its 2015 growth at 7 percent. That sparked a rally in airline stocks, as investors were more assured that capacity growth would be limited.

Keay said that he had not been contacted by the government and doesn't think the airlines have been acting inappropriately. ``The analyst community is bringing up the subject. You certainly can't fault an airline executive for responding to the question,'' Keay said. ``The capacity continues to grow at the airports people want to fly to and air travel remains a particular good value for the consumer, especially for the utility that it provides.'' -AP

42

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P.T Tso Lake

TAWANG

Site of biggest Buddhist monastery in india Cont’d from page 40

Local tribal rulers governed it from time to time. The British had declared this area as off-limits in 1873. The area around Tawang became a cause of disagreement

to its serene location, the waterfall is very popular among the locals and visitors. Also, a popular picnic spot, many people come here to enjoy their weekends, swimming and playing in the crystal clear water of this fall.

ences a moderate climate for many months of the year. The best time to visit is between March and October, when the climate conditions are pleasant.

P.T Tso Lake: Located around 23 km away from Tawang town, this beautiful lake is one of picturesque tourist spots of the region.

The lake is known for its indescribable serenity. An ideal place for picnicking one is sure to enjoy the splendid view of the lake and its beautiful surrounding.

Fairs & festivals: The Tibetan Buddhist festival of Losar is celebrated in the month of FebruaryMarch every year with great fanfare in the Tawang monastery.

By Train: Tezpur is the nearest railhead which is around 160 km from Tawang.

By Air: The Tezpur Airport is

Bap Teng Kang

How to reach

Fairs & festivals

between India and China, after India gained independence in 1947.

The Chinese army invaded Tawang in 1962 but they later withdrew.

Tourist Attractions Bomdila: The picturesque town of Bomdila is an important town to visit near Tawang and is known for its natural beauty and Buddhist monasteries.

Bap Teng Kang: Situated on the way from Tawang to Zeminthang, this beautiful waterfall has a height of 100 ft. It is also known as BTK waterfall and lies around 80 km from Tawang. Due

Best time to visit The town of Tawang experi-

the best and the closest option for those who are arriving by air. The place is connected by flights from cities such as Kolkata and

Guwahati.

By Bus: Buses are available for Tawang from Tezpur and other parts of the region.

Dharamsala set to be the most beautiful town DHARAMSALA: Dharamsala will be one of the most beautiful towns of North India; Himachal Pradesh Minister Sudhir Sharma claimed while inviting a Hong Kong based company to look into the city's urban plan.

"We have invited a Hong Kong based company to look at the urban plan of Dharamsala. We will ensure that the city is not turned into places like Shimla and Manali that do not have any open space," Sharma, Minister of Urban Development said.

"I believe Dharamshala will become one of the most beautiful towns of North India," he said.

Sharma, also the local MLA, underlined the efforts taken by his

ministry to turn the fortunes of the town.

"This is the first town in state where roads have been paved, round the clock water supply

would soon be provided and laying of underground pipelines is being done," he said.

The minister noted that survey is on to expand Gaggal airport here to facilitate operation of jet liners

in the coming years as well as the work on two ropeways, from Kotwali Bazar to Mcleodganj and Chamunda to Himani Chamunda, would soon begin.

The ropeways would allow tourists to visit Dalai Lama's home place and the snow capped range without being stuck in traffic, Sharma said.

Many parking areas are also coming up in the town and its surrounding areas, he said.

The minister, however, complained that some local contractors and businessmen are not meeting quality standard in their work and harassing the public by selective construction of roads and other development works. -PTI

Travel & Hospitality Post

July 10, 2015

India Post 43

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1.5 lakh issued e-visa in 7 months: Panwar RISHIKESH: With India introducing electronic visa for 150 nations combined with other steps, the government is confident that the country will become a popular

"This shows how keen the government is to attract people to India, see things for themselves and invest here. The ambitious Smart City project is also a step in that

Tourism secretary Lalit K Panwar

destination for tourists and investors, an official has said.

Tourism promotion is at the center of Narendra Modi Government's scheme of things and it has taken a number of steps, including Smart Cities and Make in India, which reflect this commitment, Tourism secretary Lalit K Panwar said.

"Over 1.5 lakh people from 150 countries including China were issued online electronic travel visas by the Centre in the last seven months which is something never done by any previous government.

direction," Panwar told PTI. The smart city project will give a multi-dimensional boost to tourism the country linking it with development, livelihood, trade and investment and government also wants people to come to India, see its potential in different sectors and then decide to invest here, he said.

This sector (tourism) is set to occupy the centre stage in the country's development process and there must be a well planned strategy in place for its scientific and long-term expansion, he main-

tained.

He said the government also has plans to launch a Swadesh Darshan Yojana to boost domestic tourism in the country under which all Himalayan, coastal and desert states besides those through which Ganga River passes, will be developed as tourist circuits.

With the Ganga originating in Garhwal Himalayas, Uttarakhand will definitely be part of this ambitious scheme, he said.

On Uttarakhand, the Secretary said "We will promote tourism in Uttarakhand but not at the cost of its fragile Himalayan ecology. Centre is keen on promoting water sports activities in Tehri dam reservoir and has sanctioned Rs 50 crore to the state government for the purpose."

Panwar advised the Uttarakhand government to implement the Regulation of Travel Trade Act in the state on the lines of 13 other states in the country which have tourism based economies, including Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir, where the Act has already been brought into force.

Noting that implementation of the act will streamline tourism in the hill state, he said, the state tourism secretary Umakant Panwar has been asked to work out modalities of implementing the act in Uttarakhand. -PTI

Mathura special force for safety of tourists MATHURA: The state government has decided to post a special force in Mathura in view of the safety and security concerns of tourists in the city.

"The safety and security of the tourist is the prime concern of the state. We have decided to post Tourist force in Mathura," Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Alok Ranjan said here.

After Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav made announcement of the schemes earlier, it was found that 40 such work related to declaration by the Chief Minister have not been completed so far, he said.

"A time limit of 18 months with stress on quality have been set to complete the work," he stated.

The minister also admitted that

vehicular traffic on Parikrama Marg in the city is gradually turning a problem for the pilgrims performing 'Parikrama'.

Chief Minister is more concerned about the condition of Goverdhan, he said, adding "the Govt is contemplating to make a

ring road around existing Parikrama Marg."

On delay in completing the formality related to establishment of Goverdhan Tehsil, the minister said that a Gazette Notification has been issued for it and other formalities would follow now. -PTI

23 SECR zone stations to have Wi-Fi facility RAIPUR: Passengers will be able to log on to the Wi-Fi service at prominent railway stations of South East Central Railway zone, including Raipur, with the facility likely to be installed at these places by next year.

As many as 23 railway stations of various categories under the jurisdiction of SECR zone, comprising Bilaspur, Raipur and Nagpur divisions, will be equipped with the Wi-Fi facility in different phases.

"In the first stage of the project, the facility will be set up at railway stations of the state capitals in the country while along with it stations falling under A1 category will be covered within the current financial year," SECR's Chief Public Relations Officer R K Agrawal told PTI. "The objective is to convert railway stations to technically sound places to boost passenger amenities," he said.

In the SCER zone, two railway stations - Raipur and Bilaspur meet the eligibility criteria of A1 category.

Being a capital, priority will be

given to Raipur while simultaneously the process of installation would progress and accomplished in Bilaspur too by March next year, Agrawal said.

Subsequently in next phases, the facility will be provided at A and B categories of railway stations Raigarh, Champa, Korba, Akaltara, Pendra Road, Anuppur, Shahdol, Umaria, Ambikapur (Bilaspur division), Bhilai Power House, Durg, Bhatapara, Tilda (Raipur division) and Rajnandgaon, Gondia, Bhandara Road, Dongargarh, Chhindwara, Ramtek, Chandafort, Itwari (Nagpur division), he said.

The railway stations have been classified on the basis of yearly earning capacity. The stations

which earn over Rs 60 crore annually are placed under A1 category.

"Bilaspur and Raipur stations recorded earnings over Rs 100 crores in the financial year 201314," he said. -PTI

Grand Canyon visitation up through first quarter GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK, Ariz.: Anyone planning a Grand Canyon trip could be waiting 30 minutes or longer to get in.

Park spokeswoman Emily Davis says the Grand Canyon has seen a 20 percent increase in visitation through the first quarter of this year. If the trend holds, traffic will be backed up at entrance stations and parking lots will fill up fast.

July typically is one of the busiest months of the year at the Grand Canyon, with some 622,000 visitors last July. About 4.5 million people visit the

canyon annually.

To cut down on vehicle traffic inside the park, Grand Canyon officials are urging South Rim visitors to use the shuttle service from Tusayan. Visitors then can use shuttle buses. However, those will be crowded too and require a wait.

-AP

In Brief Demonstrators sue city of Murrieta, sheriff MURRIETA, Calif.: Two men arrested during immigration protests at the U.S. Border Patrol Station in Murrieta last year have sued the city and Riverside County, alleging misconduct by police and mistreatment in jail.

The Press-Enterprise newspaper reports the suit accuses police of targeting pro-migrant protesters because of their political beliefs.

Pouyan Bokaei and Salvador Chavez, both of Los Angeles, were among five people arrested last July 4. During demonstrations, anti-illegal immigration activists turned away buses of detained Central American migrants bound for the Border Patrol station.

Charges were later dropped.

Plaintiffs' attorney Gerald Singleton says police had no probable cause to arrest Bokaei and Chavez and that officers used unnecessary force.

Jeff Morris, an attorney for Murrieta, said he wasn't aware of the lawsuit and couldn't comment. -AP

„ Delaware law allows immigrant driving cards DOVER, Del.: Gov. Jack Markell has signed legislation allowing certain people living in the U.S. illegally to gain driving privileges

Immigration

Danish government tightens immigration law

44 India Post

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July 10, 2015

Details on page 46

New US citizens sworn in SANTA CLARA,CA. U S Citizenship and Immigration Service sworn in 79 of America's newest citizens from more than 20 countries during a special naturalization ceremony at California's Great America Amusement Park in Santa Clara.

So far this year, more than 414,000 people have been naturalized, said Rep. Mike Honda, D-San Jose.

The officials wanted the new citizens to experience something different with their families for the 4th of July weekend.

So far this year, more than 414,000 people have been naturalized. Rep. Mike Honda, D-San Jose, told Santa Clara group that he knew each of their paths had been unique. But now they had arrived at a place where they were the same as every citizen of this great country.---Equal.

Later the new citizens were asked to stay as guest of Great America.

Pic courtesy : S J Mercury News

Indian-Americans honored with Immigrants award Gov. Jack Markell

in Delaware.

Markell signed the bill shortly after it passed the House on a 2215 vote. The legislation, which cleared the Senate earlier, takes effect in six months.

The measure allows driving privilege cards to be issued to people who are in the country illegally and who have filed Delaware state income tax returns for the preceding two years, or who have lived in Delaware and been claimed as a dependent on a state income tax return.

The bill includes an amendment that calls for the reconvening of a task force in June 2016 to review the implementation of the driving privilege card program and determine whether any changes should be recommended. -AP

NEW YORK: Four IndianAmericans, including top US attorney Preet Bharara, are among 38 distinguished personalities who have been honored with this year's prestigious "Great Immigrants: The Pride of America" award.

Among other Indians honored with the top annual award by the prestigious New Yorkbased Carnegie Corporation are Rakesh Khurana, Dean of Harvard College and Marvin Bower Professor of Leadership and Development; Madhulika Sikka vice president, executive editor, Mic and Abraham Verghese, eminent physician, professor and author.

"Only America welcomes, every day, populations of people like me and my parents - people who ate biryani before they ate burgers, who learned cricket before they learned baseball,"

Bharara told PTI. "There is still something called the American dream, and I have

Preet Bharar

dreamt it; I have lived it; and I hope I never awaken from it. I am deeply proud of both my Indian heritage and my American roots, and I am more than honored to be named a

Great Immigrant," Bharara said.

The immigrants have been honored for their "vital" contributions to the fabric of the nation and the strength of its democracy.

"Geography is destiny. It was in coming to America, in that change in geography that I found my voice and purpose," Verghese said.

"I am humbled and honored to be included in this list of people who represent the promise of the immigrant experience.

America has been good to me and I am proud to call myself an American immigrant," said Sikka.

The Carnegie Corporation celebrated 38 "distinguished group of immigrants and their accomplishments" on the occasion of America's Independence Day. The 38 immigrants honored this year come from more than 30 countries around the world and represent leadership in a wide range of

professions.

Other notable honorees include Nobel Prize-winning Biochemist of Israeli origin Arieh Warshel, German-origin Nobel Prize-winning Neuroscientist Thomas Sudhof, PakistaniAmerican immigration attorney Rabia Chaudry, Colombian-origin actress Sofia Vergara among others.

"Our founder, Andrew Carnegie, came to this country as the son of impoverished immigrants and grew up to become one of the greatest contributors to American industry and philanthropy," said Vartan Gregorian, president of the corporation.

"His devotion to US democracy stemmed from his conviction that the new infusion of talent that immigrants bring to our country keeps American society vibrant," he said. -PTI

Immigration Post

July 10, 2015

India Post 45

www.indiapost.com

Immigration detention center 25 foreign nationals held in Vegas sweep expands in So Cal SANTA ANA, Calif.: Immigration authorities will expand a Southern California detention facility to get more bed space for women with criminal records, immigrants with medical needs, recently arrived asylum seekers and other detainees.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement is getting an additional 640 beds at a privately contracted detention facility some 60 miles northeast of Los Angeles starting in July, raising the total number of beds to 1,940.

The move helps consolidate detention space because beds are expensive and hard to find in cities such as San Francisco, said David Marin, ICE's deputy field office director for enforcement and removal in Los Angeles. Most detainees at the center have criminal records, officials said.

The expansion of the facility in Adelanto run by GEO Group comes as the number of detained immigrants has dropped nationwide. From October 2014 to March

2015, the average number of immigrants in detention each day totaled 26,734, down 21 percent from the previous fiscal year's daily average.

Immigrant advocates said the expansion clashes with Obama ad-

Immigration and Customs Enforcement is getting an additional 640 beds at a privately contracted detention facility some 60 miles northeast of Los Angeles ministration policies aimed at detaining fewer immigrants. They also questioned the quality of medical care at the center, which opened in 2011.

GEO Group officials declined to comment.

ICE, which announced a proposal to consider housing transgender immigration detainees by the gender they identify with, plans to move about two dozen transgender detainees from a city-owned facility in Santa Ana to the new women's section in Adelanto, said Virginia Kice, an agency spokeswoman.

Immigration officials also contract for space at several other area facilities that are run by law enforcement agencies. In Orange County, two jails used for immigration detainees have seen their numbers decline, said Lt. Jeff Hallock, a sheriff's department spokesman. Those beds were about 70 percent occupied as of last week, he said.

The average daily rate that ICE must pay to house a detainee in Adelanto is $111, compared with $118 at the Orange County Sheriff's Department facilities and $142 at centers in the San Diego area, according to ICE. The national average is $122 a day. -AP

Immigrant children given adult dose of hepatitis A vaccine SAN ANTONIO: About 250 immigrant children were given an adult dose of a hepatitis A vaccine at a Texas detention facility where they were being held with their mothers, according to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials.

The vaccines were administered this week, but none of the children has been hospitalized or had any adverse reactions, ICE officials said Saturday ICE spokesman Richard Rocha said health care professionals will monitor the children over the next five days for any potential side effects, though none are expected. ``Parents at the facility were advised and counseled by medical professionals about potential side effects, with services made available in multiple languages,'' Rocha said in a statement.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the hepatitis A virus can cause liver infection and is usually transmitted among individuals and through the consumption of contaminated food or water.

Dr. Peter J. Hotez, dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at the Baylor College of Medi-

cine in Houston, said the children likely received double the pediatric dosage of the vaccine. He said they should continue to be monitored, although it's unlikely that they will see short- or long-term complications. ``I'm guessing there will not be

Rocha said.

As of earlier this week, the center about 70 miles southwest of San Antonio held about 2,000 women and children, most from Central America and who entered the U.S. via Mexico seeking asylum. A second family detention center in Karnes City, about 60 miles southeast of San Antonio, held about 400 people. There is a third, smaller facility in Berks County, Pennsylvania.

Crystal Williams, executive director of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, which has provided pro-bono legal services to the women and children in the detention facilities, said in a statement that volunteers ``have long noted disturbing patterns The entrance to the South Texas Family of what appears to be inadResidential Center in Dilley, Texas. equate health care.'' significant effects,'' he said. ``If ``This latest permutation is beanything, you may get a higher yond appalling,'' Williams said in immune response.'' the statement.

ICE and the Department of But ICE has previously said Homeland Security's Office of that the health care professionals Health Affairs are investigating at the centers provide quality medihow the mix-up at the South Texas cal care and that the agency takes Family Residential Center in Dilley ``very seriously the health, safety occurred and how such mistakes and welfare of those in our care.'' can be avoided in the future, AP

LAS VEGAS: Federal officials say 25 foreign citizens including convicted child sex offenders and drug traffickers were arrested in the Las Vegas area during a four-day operation.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced that most of those arrested had multiple prior criminal convictions, including 13 on charges also including child molestation, driving under the influence resulting in death and possessing stolen mail.

Daniel Bible, an ICE official in Salt Lake City, says four of those arrested were previously deported and will face felony federal prosecution because they returned to the U.S. ICE says the people arrested through came from the countries of Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, the Philippines and Cuba.

Officials say those who aren't facing criminal prosecution remain in bureau custody pending administrative processing for deportation. -AP

Bush says he takes Trump's immigration remarks personally WASHINGTON: Republican presidential candidate Jeb Bush says he is personally offended by rival Donald Trump's recent remarks about Mexico and immigrants and calls the remarks far outside the mainstream of Republican thought.

After a Fourth of July parade in Merrimack, New Hampshire, Bush called Trump's remarks ``extraordinarily ugly.''

Bush's wife was born in Mexico, and when he was asked if

he took Trump's remarks personally, he responded, ``Yeah, of course _ absolutely.''

When Trump announced his presidential bid last month, he criticized Mexico and immigrants who come to the U.S. illegally. He said they bring drugs and crime with them and are ``rapists.''

In spite of earlier criticism from Bush and other Republicans and companies moving to cut business ties to Trump, the real estate mogul has defended his remarks. -AP

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Immigration Post

46 India Post

July 10, 2015

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Danish government tightens immigration law COPENHAGEN, Denmark: Denmark's new center-right minority government has reached its first deal with its political allies, including the anti-immigrant Danish People's Party, aimed at reducing the number of asylum-seekers by lowering social benefits.

Immigration minister Inger Stoejberg said ``the effect is hopefully'' fewer asylum-seekers, calling it ``a very clear goal'' for the new government which took office on June 28.

Last year, 15,000 people sought asylum in Denmark, twice as many as in 2013.

Stoejberg said that a single per-

son would get nearly 6,000 kroner ($900) a month instead of 10,850 kroner ($1,625), while a couple over the age of 30 with children would get 16,640 ($2,500) against 28,800 kroner ($4,315).

A monthly bonus of 1,500 kroner ($225) would be given to immigrants who can pass a Danish language test ``meaning you can be on the labor market and you can start getting an education,'' Stoejberg said. More tightening was expected, she added.

The government and its allies want more foreigners to better integrate the Danish society instead of living off social benefits.

Foreigners availing Research Visa to undergo strict scrutiny NEW DELHI: Foreigners intending to work in NGOs, carry out research work on human rights and environment issues will have to face stricter scrutiny of their visa applications after detection of several incidents of alleged misuse of these provisions.

The move came after Home Ministry found that Research Visas, given to professors, scholars and participants to do research work and attend research conferences, are being allegedly misused by several foreigners in recent past.

"All research visa applications will be thoroughly scrutinised. An

India, and were alleged to have been involved in anti-government activities.

Home Ministry has found that many of the foreigners come to India on Tourist Visa and later get involved in research works and NGOs dealing with environment and human rights issues.

"Such trends have to be stopped. We will not allow anyone misusing the tourist visa provisions too," the official said.

However, genuine researchers will not have to face difficulty if the project is to be done under an Indian institution accredited by the University Grants Com-

Several foreigners had worked in NGOs, including Greenpeace India, and were alleged to have been involved in antigovernment activities. applicant has to submit a brief note in advance about the project in which the research work will be conducted. If we find it appropriate, non-controversial and beneficial to India, then only the applicant will be given a visa," a senior Home Ministry official said.

Christine Mehta, who prepared a research paper on alleged human rights violation in Kashmir on behalf of Amnesty International, reportedly did not submit her research subject to the authorities beforehand. Unhappy over her work, government deported Mehta in November 2014.

Several foreigners had worked in NGOs, including Greenpeace

mission.

Visa applications of foreign scholars who take scholarships from Indian Council for Cultural Relations for conducting research will also be processed without any difficulty.

The ICCR offers scholarships namely General Cultural Scholarship Scheme, Silver Jubilee Nepali Scholarship, Africa Scholarships, Commonwealth Scholarship Scheme etc.

According to an estimate, around 42,000 foreign students study in India of which nearly 3,800 are research scholars.

Most of the foreign students belong to Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan and Iran. -PTI

Official statistics show first- and

Denmark's 5.6 million inhabitants

Danish Prime Minister Lars Loekke Rasmussen attends a news conference as he presents his minority government in Copenhagen

second-generation immigrants represent 12 percent of

and 16 percent of the 1 million people receiving some kind of

government benefits, including student grants and parental leave.

The proposal must go through parliament. The government has a majority and if passed, the new measure would take effect Sept.

1.

Foreign Minister Kristian Jensen discussed another of the government's election campaign promises with his German counterpart Frank-Walter Steinmeier in Berlin: creating controls at the border with Germany in order to stop illegal immigration and smuggling.

Jensen said the government was still working on the plans but stressed it would not violate Europe's border-free Schengen zone and would be made in agreement with the European Union. AP

Datebook

July 10, 2015

NEW JERSEY Upcoming

NEW YORK Upcoming

Sat, Jul 11 • Spectacular 30th Anniversary Celebrations

Thu, Jul 16

Venue: Newark Symphony Hall, 1030 Broad St., Newark, NJ 07102 Time: 9:00 am

Venue: Antun's, 244 W Old Country Rd, Hicksville, NY 11801 Time : 6:00 pm Contact: 732-277-6687

Sun, Jul 19 • Sau Saal Pehle- A Musical Journey Venue: Renaissance Woodbridge Hotel, US Highway 1 S, Woodbridge Township, NJ 08830 Time : 3:00 pm Contact: 646-393-7931

Sun, Aug 2 • Nitin Mukesh live in concert New Jersey Venue: Sayreville War Memorial High School, 820 Washington Road, NJ 08859 Time: 5:30 pm Contact: 8482191079

• Chand Raat Mela and Concert

Sat, Jul 18 • Dhammal Comedy Of Father And Son Venue: Community Center Auditorium, 14309 Holly Ave, flushing, NY 11355 Time: 7:30 pm Contact: 732-822-6163

Sat, Aug 1 • Om Entertainment - Nitin Mukesh Live In Concert Venue: Community Center Auditorium, 14309 Holly Ave, flushing, NY 11355 Time : 7:00 pm

India Post 47

www.indiapost.com

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

CHICAGO

Upcoming

Upcoming

Sun Jul 19 • Shreya Ghoshal Live In Bay Area Venue: City National Civic, 135 W San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95113 Time: 6:30 pm Contact: 408-476-6118

Fri, Jul 24 • Kknc – Camping 2015 Venue: Little Basin Cabins, 21700 Little Basin Rd, Boulder Creek, CA 95006 Time: 4:00 pm

Fri, Jul 31 • Paatasala Telugu School registration Venue: Telugu Times, 68 S Abel St, Milpitas, CA 95035

Sun, Jul 16 • Desi Kids Star Entertainment Venue: Sunnyvale Hindu Temple Community Hall, 420 Persian Dr, Sunnyvale, CA 94089 Time: 12:00 pm Contact: 408-903-0578

Sun, Aug 9 • StarLight Dance & Fitness 2015 Venue: Mission city center for performing arts theater, 3250 Monroe St, Santa Clara, CA 95051 Time: 5:00 pm Contact: 408-799-1567

ATLANTA Upcoming

Time: 8:00 am

Sat, Aug 1 • Gujarati Comedy Play Pappa Avaj Hoi Che

Fri, Aug 7 • Festival of Globe: Festival of India and Parade with San Francisco Global Movie Fest

Venue: Gujarati Samaj Inc, 5331 Royalwood parkway Tucker, Atlanta, GA 30084 Time: 8:00 pm

Venue: Corner of Paseo Padre and Walnut

Fri, Aug 7 • ICHF Presents Arathi Dance Fest 2015

Ave., 39439 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont, CA 94538 Time: 10:00 am Contact: 510-304-5619

Fri, Aug 7 • Iffer - Antakshiri & Karaoke Night Venue: Golden Peacock Banquets, 24989 Santa Clara St, Hayward, CA 94544 Time: 7:30 pm Contact: 6509212846

Venue: Dallas City Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas, TX 75201 Time: 7:30 pm Contact: 2148838538

Mon, Aug 31 • MITHAS 2014 Membership Venue: Wong Auditorium, MIT, 70 Memorial Dr, Cambridge, MA 02142 Time: 07:00 pm Contact: 857-205-9731

ILLINOIS Upcoming 1st and 3rd Sunday of Month • Chicago Children's Bal Mukund Character Building Program and Hindi Literacy Classes Venue: Vogelei Center, 650 W. Higgins Road, Hoffmann Estates, IL 60192 (Next to Nissan Dealership) Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630-561-4807

Mondays and Fridays • Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes Metropolitan Asian Family Services Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL, Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Contact: 773-465-3105

Mondays and Fridays • Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes Where: Metropolitan Asian Family Services Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL, Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Contact: 773-465-3105

Swami Ishatmananda • Bhagavad Gita: Philosophy of life Venue: Public Library-95th Street 3015 Cedar Glade Rd Naperville IL 60564 Time: 1st friday of every month 7-8 pm Contact: 630-637-0662

• India Eternal: From the Vedic Age to the Present Venue: Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago 10915 N. Main Street Glendale Heights, IL 60139 Time: 10:00 pm Contact: 630-655-8822

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Philosophy

July 10, 2015

India Post 49

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T

here's nothing that money can't buy," says U.G., reacting to the old Beatles' number "Can't Buy Me Love" which is playing on Sushma's tape recorder.

"Look at their own lives. The Beatles could not love one another and ultimately had to split up. Singing songs of love to make money was their only creed...."

We are thirty-nine kilometers away from Bern. The sensuous voice of a woman emanates from the tape deck. "Do you like music, U.G.?"

"I prefer the barking of a dog, the grunting of a pig, and the neighing of a horse. There is life in them, some vitality. Listening to music is a sensual activity.... " "Even bhajans and hymns?" I ask. "Yes, everything. In fact, your God is the ultimate pleasure your mind has created ...."

U.G. narrated this funny incident that took place in his childhood on a railway platform: As U.G. stepped out from a comfortable first class compartment onto the railway platform in Madras, he ran into his grandfather, who had just gotten down from a crowded thirdclass compartment of the same train.

The sight of his grandson alighting from a first class compartment made the old man furious. "How can you do this?" the old man said. "We sweat day and night to see that you have a comPETER FRANCIS DZUBIAN

S

lowly pull your left thumb up close. Really notice the fingernail. There it is-just a fingernail. Now notice something usually overlooked, yet extremely telling. That fingernail never notices you. Always, you are the one that notices or is aware of the fingernail. It never is the other way around.

Stop and see if it ever happens that the fingernail is aware of you.

That fingernail never has said to you, "You've been aware of me all day! Now we'll switch and it's my turn to be aware of you."

Stop and confirm this now with other parts of the body. A whole finger. A leg. Chest. Try a tooth.

An ear. Even your entire head. The answer always is: no part of the body ever is aware. The body never is the same as the you that is aware of the body.

If no part of the body is awareand yet you are aware-then you must be something more than the body. The body is what you seem to use. It is not what you are.

Awareness is what you really are.

Perhaps you never noticed this before. That's okay. Notice it now.

Now take it even further. Stop again to really notice the body as

fortable future, and here you are, blowing it all up!" Guess what U.G.'s reply was. He said, "Why wait for the future? You have seen with your own eyes how comfortable I am already with your hardearned money. Isn't that what you wanted?"

It has never been told to the world that the last scene of my film "Arth", in which the heroine turns her back on her husband and her lover and walks away alone, was in fact suggested and insisted upon by U.G. U.G. did this despite

girls charge $600 for spending a night with the customers. When I asked them how come they got so much, they explained that before and after the sex act they discussed religion, divinity, and mysticism with their customers. That is why they were so expensive."

"Sorrow is the glue. Art, religion, and that political zeal to improve the lives of the human lot, spring from the frustration and impossibility of making any sense out of life," says U.G. At night, U.G. talks about an-

are exactly the same, perhaps worse...."

As the day wears on, I'm savaged by U.G. "... Do you know why you want me to keep on giving that money to your children after you're dead and gone? It means that you don't want to let go of that money even after you're dead and gone. You want to continue living through your kids after you die. You say you don't believe in reincarnation, you do not believe in afterlife, you don't want to leave any footprints behind. All that is

Listening to music is a sensual activity "I prefer the barking of a dog, the grunting of a pig, and the neighing of a horse. There is life in them, some vitality. Listening to music is U.G. Krishnamurthy

Health is the greatest gift, contentment the greatest wealth, faithfulness the best relationship.

-Buddha Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value.

-Albert Einstein

a sensual activity.... "

the fierce opposition he faced from the film experts who prophesied that such an ending would destroy the box office prospects of the movie. Well, what happened is history. The film worked only because of the end.

U.G. talked about the three call girls he met in Tokyo. One was a Rajneesh freak, the second, a J. Krishnamurti freak, and the third, a Bubba Free John freak. "These

other mĂŠnage Ă trois - J. Krishnamurti, Rosalind Rajagopal, and Rajagopal. "...

Rajagopal put up with J.K.'s affair with his wife, and looked the other way because of the money and real estate that were involved. He was a willing participant in that sordid drama. Don't exonerate these people. They may claim that they are different from us ordinary mortals, but they

bogus. Like everybody else, you want continuity. That's all that you are interested in. You want to continue through your work, your writings, your books, your movies, or your so-called humanitarian acts."

Excerpted from 'A Taste of Death - Thirty Days with U.G. in Gstaad, Switzerland' by Mahesh Bhatt.The 97th birth anniversary of U.G. Krishnamurthy will be observed on July 9.

True wisdom comes to

it is breathing. The gentle up-anddown rhythm of the lungs is noticed as supposedly occurring inside the body. Go slowly and let these sink in. Notice that the heartbeat, a muscle cramp, and even the taste of toothpaste, are other things that would be noticed as being inside the body.

Notice a window if you can.

have that in common.

It means the muscle cramp and the moon really are found in the exact same "place." Everything always appears to be going on within this state of noticing or awareness. Be alert that some things appear to be outside the body, of course. But nothing you experience is ever outside of no-

to be experienced.

The popular belief today is that you are a body-and awareness, consciousness, is limited to functioning only inside that body. It can equally be said that you are a state of awareness, and this awareness appears to have a body-and everything else!-within it.

tiful things in the world

each of us when we realize how little we understand about life, ourselves, and the world around us.

-Socrates The best and most beaucannot be seen or even touched - they must be felt with the heart.

-Helen Keller Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's

That fingernail of yours never notices you

possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.

If no part of the body is aware-and yet you are

-Francis of Assisi

aware-then you must be something more than the

It is the mark of an edu-

body. The body is what you seem to use. It is not

cated mind to be able to

what you are. Awareness is what you really are.

entertain a thought withPeter Francis Dzubian

Suppose the moon could be seen through the window. The book, window, and moon all appear to be outside the body. So-some things are noticed as being inside the body. Some are noticed as being outside the body. Either way, inside or outside-all these things are noticed. That's what counts.

Both the inside and outside things are within your noticing. They all

ticing or awareness. Otherwise, that thing could not be noticed.

Even the body itself appears to be included within awareness.

Awareness is all-inclusive of every last bit of your experience.

The more you notice about this, the more it is clear. This all-inclusive "bubble" of noticing or awareness really is where the entirety of your universe appears

If all things-body, earth, even the moon and universe-can be said to be within noticing and awareness, it changes everything.

Excerpted from 'Simply Notice.'

Peter Francis Dziuban is an author and lecturer on the subject of Awareness, Consciousness and spirituality. Peter worked in corporate America, mostly in communications.

out accepting it.

- Aristotle There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.

sure yourself FIRST. Call Sahanis, (Arish, Priya or Shiv) for your Insurance needs 718- 271- 0453. Serving for last 35 yrs

-Edith Wharton

50 India Post

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July 10, 2015

SAN FRANCISCO: The big reveal from Kim Kardashian's guest turn for San Francisco's revered Commonwealth Club of California? She was wearing maternity Spanx under her black designer dress to conceal cellulite, not her pregnant belly.

The reality TV star and fashion mogul was invited by the 112-year-old club that describes itself as the nation's oldest and largest public affairs program to talk about her famous family, the business of millennial culture and the objectification of women in media.

Before her visit, the Commonwealth Club's invitation to Kardashian provoked minor controversy.

Some members and listeners of the club's radio broadcasts said they felt she was not worthy of sharing the same spotlight as such

notable past speakers as President Franklin D. Roosevelt and Martin Luther King Jr. The program's Facebook page has lit up in recent days with comments opposing and supporting her selection.

Kardashian did discuss the key topics, and others, during an hour-long appearance before an adoring audience that was mostly young and female. But the mild questions she was asked, first by a retired state judge who served as interviewer

`I really do love social media. I credit it to a lot of my career,'' Kardashian answered. ``My career is based on openness, openness and honesty.''

Cordell noted that Kardashian has 94 million social media followers. and then by audience members via Twitter, elicited few deep answers. ``How do you explain your popularity?'' Judge

LaDoris Cordell asked Kardashian after the topic of the 34-year-old's outfit was covered. ``I really do love social media. I credit it to a lot of my career,'' Kardashian answered. ``My career is based on openness, openness and honesty.''

Cordell noted that Kardashian has 94 million social media followers. ``Maybe it's the bikini selfies,'' the photogenic guest continued. ``I think I definitely overshare, but I'm really engaged.''

The judge also asked if it is realistic for young girls to be successful in a man's world.

Kardashian, who has makeup, hair care, perfume, and clothing lines to her credit along with a bestselling game app, was thoughtful. ``There is this generation of young people - girls - who are beautiful but don't have a strong work

ethic,'' she said. ``People sometimes think that with looks things will be easy. But I just encourage people to put in the work.''

Then it was time for the tough questions. Do the media degrade women, Cordell asked, to the status of mere sexual objects? Does the large number of selfies Kardashian posts objectify her? ``Yes. I don't think it's a bad thing,'' she answered. ``I think there's power in that and I think I have the control to put out what I want so even if I'm objectifying myself, I feel good about it.''

During her time on stage, Kardashian also said the public had been ``more supportive than we ever could have imagined'' of Caitlyn Jenner, her transgender stepfather. She said her family is attending group therapy and ``everybody has their own transition to accept and support this.''

The most meaningful exchange might have come when Cordell, who was the first African American female judge appointed to the bench in Northern California, wondered how Kardashian and her husband, rapper Kanye West, planned to protect their biracial children from discrimination.

The couple has a 2-year-old daughter and Kardashian is four-months pregnant with their second child, a boy.

Kardashian shared making the difficult decision not to engage with a fellow airline passenger who screamed profanity and racial comments at her while she was traveling with her daughter. West ``is very vocal about racial issues,'' she said. ``Our communication, I think, will be really helpful for our children.'' -AP

July 10, 2015

India Post 51 www.indiapost.com

Landmark 200-year-old sweet shop downs shutters NEW DELHI: Ghantewala, an over 200-year-old sweet shop in Old Delhi's bustling Chandni Chowk market has finally downed its shutters, evoking shock and a

it that I narrate during my food walks. Some say the shop took its name after a clock tower nearby," says Sapra.

According to another story, the

sense of loss among food connoisseurs, sweet lovers and other visitors.

In the bylanes of the bazaar, it was routine to see hungry customers dodging rickshaws and fellow passersby to make a beeline to the shop, famed for its mouthwatering 'Sohan halwa' and 'Karachi halwa', which "tasted like pure ghee."

According to Anubhav Sapra, of 'Delhi Food Walks, the

shop was so named by Mughal Emperor Shah Alam II himself who tasked his servants to fetch sweets from the 'Ganta neecha' (Below the bell) shop.

"In those days the area was sparsely populated and the Emperor who used to live in the Red Fort could hear the toll of the bell for the school that was located in front of the shop and was reminded to instruct his servants to

In the bylanes of the bazaar, it was routine to see hungry customers dodging rickshaws and fellow passersby to make a beeline to the shop, famed for its mouthwatering 'Sohan halwa' and 'Karachi halwa', which "tasted like pure ghee."

Ghantewalan (Sohan Halwa Shop) shop was among three oldest sweet shops in the Walled City the other two being Chaina Ram (9101) near the Fatehpuri mosque and Kanwarji (established in 1850) in the Paranthewali gali.

"The Ghantewala was a landmark in Old Delhi and there are about four stories associated with

fetch him fresh sweets from the shop," Nirmala Jain, a seventh generation family member told PTI in a previous interview.

Founded in 1790 by Lala Sukh Lal Jain who had arrived in the walled city from Rajasthan, the shop was being run by his great grandchildren. The Lala had begun by selling 'Mishri Mawa,' a

Rajasthani speciality.

"We used to produce around 40 to 50 different varieties of sweets that we kept changing according to the season or festivals," Nirmala had said.

Owner Sushant Jain cites low business for downing the shutters.

"There is a long list of reasons behind closing down of the shop and low profits is one of them. Business requires a lot of efforts and time.

It is a cumbersome task to run a business and needs much attention," says Jain.

Anecdotal stories revolving around the shop include one of a rich trader who regularly used to stop by riding an elephant who would be fed sweets by the shopkeeper. The elephant had around its neck a bell which was rung to announce its arrival.

The 'Sohan halwa' a ghee dripping gram flour biscuit of Persian origin was a trademark delicacy of Ghantewala shop.

According to R V Smith, an author and chronicler of Delhi for the last 50 years, sweets for important personages like former Prime Ministers Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi were purchased from the Ghantewala shop.

"The shop was a landmark and every rickshawalla was aware of it. I used to go often to buy sweets especially its famed 'halwa sohn' and the shop was known for its high quality namkeen. Many leaders in the Congress used to buy sweets from here to be taken to Pandit Nehru's and Indira Gandhi's house.

"Old Dilliwallahs will be disappointed with the shop's closure.

The lines outside the shop especially during festivals like Diwali, Durga Puja, Eid, etc was huge. It also attracted a lot of foreigners," says Smith.

According to food explorer Sapra, historic eateries in other places also face a similar fate.

"Look at what happened to the Parsi Irani cafes in Mumbai. They used to number in the hundreds

but now there are only a handful, others have all shut shop.

"Nowadays, youngsters are more inclined to party and are calorie conscious and prefer to go to swanky air-conditioned outlets.

They haven't tasted the food from such historic shops and so do not know what they are missing out on," says Sapra.

Many attribute the entry of other eateries and also the failure of the owner to open branches besides lack of advertising leading to the closure of Ghantewala.

"This shop had not been wooing its customers, had the owner opened a shop in New Delhi like Karim's had done, it would have done flourishing business," says Smith.

Agrees Anubhav who points out that another old shop in the

closed.

"No the shop hasn't been sold.

It is still with me and just the business has been shut down. The place has been rented out to Raj Fashions" says Jain.

Inder Raj who owns Raj Fashions says "Everybody used to eat at Ghantewala, even we ate there and loved their sweets," says Inder Raj, owner of Raj Fashions.

Ashok Arora, owner of Anarkali Bazaar, a shop adjacent to the Ghantewala says "The shop had very low sales since the last 10 to 15 years. There are several reasons besides the low sales like the dispute between brothers that made them divide the two shops."

Recalling the lost days Arora says "The shop used to run so well that the owner used to drive a red Chevrolet at a time when only

bazaar 'Shyam Sweets', which serves the famed 'baltawala', a Turkish sweet, had put out advertisements and hence drew visitors.

However, shop owner Jain says the shop has not been sold but merely the business has been

a very few could afford the Ambassador car. We have seen celebrities and important personalities from Rajiv Gandhi to painter M F Husain who used to visit the shop and gorge on its sweets." PTI

52 India Post

July 10, 2015 www.indiapost.com

Food walk reveals Old Delhi's culinary delights!

NEW DELHI: Old Delhi's narrow alleys are full of stories, especially the culinary kind that have been passed down over generations dating back to the Mughal period.

Over the recent years many individuals, explorers and tour guides have attempted to navigate the narrow bustling lanes of the Walled City through a series of walks centered around food.

Some of the walks take visitors down the maze like streets of the old city for 'Ifatar', the evening feast in Ramzan besides offering a midnight experience to participate in 'Sehri', a feast Muslims partake of before dawn and the beginning of their Roza (fast).

During the month of Ramzan, Muslims observe fast from dawn to dusk, without having food or water.

"Our basic motive behind organizing these food walks is to promote cultural harmony.

Through this people get to know about traditions and cultural practices of other religions and regions," says Abhinav Sapra, Founder, Delhi Food walks who conducts a Ramzan food walk.

"With 'Ramzan food walk' we are

trying to explore the food being specifically served during Ramzan by some extremely talented street food shops in old Delhi," says Sapra.

Starting off from Chawri Bazaar a caravan of 30-odd people mostly first timers to

the place walk around reaching the magnificent Jama Masjid almost at Iftaar time.

After a siren that indicates the time to break the fast walkers are treated to del i c i o u s ' k e e m a samosa', a special item for Ramzan, juicy chicken

shami kabab, crispy buff balls and paneer jalebi, a delicacy much favored during the Ramzan period.

"I have attended many food walks before, but the taste old Delhi offers cannot be compared with anything else. I have never tried such buff balls and sheekh kabas before," says Paulami a foodie in the group of walkers.

Before the taste buds have a chance to settle down the walkers are offered exquisite chicken Tikka, at Aslam Chicken corner. Simmered in gravy and loaded in butter, they literally melt in mouth.

After a while walkers find themselves following the aroma of "kewara" (flowers of pandanus), and the third destination stop offers walkers the "Dilpasand Biryani".

The "Mirch masala Buff Biryani" is cooked with different marination.

Walking a few steps ahead the next stop "Haji Shabrati Nihaari Wale" offers one of the most authentic Nihaari (slow cooked buff) in town with hot kameeri rotis coming off tandoor.

"This is the first time I've tried Nihaari that to at such an authentic place. It is an immense culinary delight, " says Aakshi Jiarath, one of the participants in the walk.

With almost full bellies the group move towards the Changezi Chicken wala in Chudiwala street.

The chicken is offered in beautifully garnished gravy with coriander that tastes best with a squeeze of lemon.

A food cart belonging to Nawab Quereshi offers "Pyar Mohabbat Maza" a refreshing drink that is a unique blend of milk, Roohafza and tiny cubes of watermelon.

"We wanted to give an interesting and attractive name to our drink and came up with this," says Quershi.

Further up is the "Cool-Point" shop which hawks desserts of Ramzan. Firni, Kulfi Falooda, badaam milk, sweet samosa and most popular "Shahi Tukda" made up of bread, sheera (sugar syrup) and khoya (condensed milk) are offered.

The last and final point for the walking group is the ""Khuloos", a shop near Jama Masjid that offers 350 creative varieties of dates.

"We have total 350 varieties of

khajoor (date) including Choco dates, those dipped in chocolate, an energy boat date that is made up of dates, honey, pista, fig and chocolate, a Pan(beetel) flavored date and dates seasoned with apri-

cot," says Adnaan Pasha the shop's owner.

Divided into two parts - the Sehri dawn walk and the Iftaar dusk walk -the walks are scheduled to be held till July 12. -PTI

Florida man wins key lime pie eating contest

Steve Carr raises his hands in victory after he devoured a 9-inch Key lime pie in 1 minute, 18 seconds Saturday, July 4. Pic Florida Keys News Bureau

KEY WEST, Fla.: A Key West man has won a Key lime pie-eating contest on the island where the tart, creamy dessert originated.

Steve Carr devoured a 9-inch pie smothered in whipped cream in 1 minute, 18 seconds Saturday, immersing his bearded face in it and emerging messy but victorious.

The Mile High Key Lime Pie Eatin' Contest, highlighting the

annual Key Lime Festival, required entrants to consume the pastry without using their hands.

Key lime pie was designated Florida's official pie in 2006 by the state legislature. Ingredients are condensed milk, egg yolks and the juice of tiny yellow Key limes, typically with a graham cracker crust and whipped cream or meringue topping. -AP

July 10, 2015

India Post 53 www.indiapost.com

Taapsee prays for Bollywood to shift to Delhi

T

aapsee Pannu recently bought two houses in Noida. Even though her family stays in the Rohini area in Delhi, she decided to invest in property in Noida because she feels that the future of real estate lies in the city.

But that doesn't make her any less of a Delhi girl. In an interview, the Baby actress spoke about her Delhi connection and how being compared with Preity Zinta doesn't bother her.

Excerpts: My father lives in Delhi, and he manages all my finances. I wanted to buy property in an area that was still developing. Delhi is already so devel-

oped that the starting price would home and even call my friends over be quite high and the appreciation so that they can get a feel of what I rate won't be as much as one would actually do. I come to Delhi once in have in Noida, Greater Noida or three-four months, but my parents Ghaziabad. I bought one house in visit me often. That makes up for it.

Noida last year and another one I will be really excited to play a Delhi two years back. girl on screen - it will be a different The installments for both the houses will be getting I still travel in the Delhi over soon. But I don't know when I will be getting to see Metro like I used to the houses. I can't expect to when I was a student. be staying in either of the People do look at me houses, so I will probably be renting them out. When I had and think that they bought them, they were unmight know me. But der construction, so I had to by the time they wait for the possession.

I have very close relatives realize who I am, living in Noida, so it's been I go out of quite a long relationship with Noida. In sight. For fact, Noida is them, it's like where the future is for real estate.

They have done all experience altogether. they could with Delhi. Whenever we Delhi metro talk of expansion, it I still travel in the Delhi Metro has to be about like I used to when I was a stuNoida or Ghaziabad dent. People do look at me and or Gurgaon. You think that they might know me. But can't possibly ex- by the time they realize who I am, I pand Delhi anymore. go out of sight. For them, it's like, I am dying to play 'How can a movie actor be here?' a Delhi girl on And while they are in disbelief, I screen move away. I can't be that reserved W h e n a person when I am in Delhi, so I B o l l y w o o d go for street shopping and like to shifts to eat out, too.

Delhi, I I take a risk by traveling in the w i l l Metro, and if people do recognize s h i f t me and come and ask me if I am back t o Delhi.

I pray for it everyday. I shot for a couple of days for Baby DECATUR, Ill.: He's still a few in Delhi but I am years off from his license, but waiting to shoot Landon Francisco proved himself a full-fledged more than capable in the pilot seat movie here. If of an airplane. the film is Not too shabby for an 8-yearshot here, I old. can come Landon was among more than to the 100 children and parents who s h o o t came out to the Decatur Airport to f r o m take part in the Young Eagle m y Flights offered by the Decatur branch of the Experimental Aircraft Association.

The program,

Taapsee, the actress, I just say, 'No'. I do not overdress, like no glasses or caps. People get more suspicious if you walk around wearing glasses or a cap. So, I just dress casually and walk around, and that's why they don't get the

feeling of me being a celeb.

In fact, I have had people coming to me and saying, 'We had a feeling you're Taapsee Pannu. But then we thought, why would she be traveling like that?

Delhi might be unsafe, but I can't not like it. No matter where you are in the world, you can never not like the place where you were born. You can never dislike the place, I feel. When I come to Delhi, I feel a sense of belonging, which I do not feel in any other part of the country. You feel, 'Yeh toh mera area hai'. I am a typical Delhi girl and I am very proud of that.

Every city has some good

things and some bad things. But I am what I am because of the upbringing that I got and also because of the city. I would rather look at the positives. I do feel that Delhi is a little more unsafe than some other cities. My family won't bother to check on me when I am out in Mumbai or somewhere in south India, but they get quite concerned if it gets a little late in the night in Delhi and I don't reach home.

I have also faced situations where my car has been followed by guys and I think every girl has been through such situations. I have had people passing lewd comments while I was walking on the road in Delhi and have been followed by guys too, but nothing major has happened.

Price tag When I was modeling during my college days, I didn't do late night shows. My parents were scared that I won't finish my education, so I was particular about timings. I would finish my work during college hours and return home right after, so they wouldn't even realize it. That's why I never did ramp shows - they usually happen in the night. In fact, people think that I am from an Army background because I became independent at such an early age in my life.

My idea of becoming self-reliant was not to move out of my house, but to buy clothes and shoes, and to be able to go for movies every Friday. That was the whole concept of earning for myself.

Experimental flights spark kids' passion for flying flying since the 1990s, has experienced pilots from across the area bring their small, typically fourseater planes to the airport and provide free rides for children between 8 and 17 years old. Participants also take part in a quick class before the flight that teaches different elements of aviation.

Bill Moore, publicity chairman for EAA 274, said the program combines a chance to provide an education about aviation and experience the thrill of being in the air. ``Sometimes, the kids are terrified to get on the plane,'' he said. ``Then once they land, they just have the biggest grins on their faces, and w e

cannot get them off the plane.''

Among those children was Gabrial Craycroft. When his pilot asked who wanted to sit in the front seat of his plane, Gabrial, 8, wasted no time to volunteer for the spot. ``It's my first time, and I really wanted to do it,'' he said after his flight. ``You can see everything while you're up there.''

Landon got more than a view, too, as his pilot allowed him to control the plane during the takeoff and for the duration of the roughly 15-minute flight.

After the plane landed, the first-time flier described the experience as fun. ``It was fun flying it and seeing how high it could get,'' Francisco said. ``I would fly again.''-AP

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Myanmar's Democratic Challenge

India Post

SHANKARI SUNDARARAMAN

T

he challenge of expand ing democratic shifts in the region will be critical this year. 2015 will be particularly crucial for Myanmar and Thailand.

Myanmar will face its first democratic elections since the 2010 elections and the reform process of 2011.

As part of the run?up to the elections, the current government under President Thein Sein will have to work towards a more concerted ceasefire and dialogue with the ethnic groups within the country. This will be the first step towards a more inclusive political participation.

Among others, an issue that

ing Herald indicated that Suu Kyi would be unable to contest for the post of President because of this clause in the 2008 Constitution.

The gains made over the past four years - since the reform process began in 2011 - may be affected by several recent developments that have raised anxieties vis?à?vis the trajectory the transition will follow.

What are the indicators of changes shaping Myanmar?

What is their significance in the context of the 2015 elections?

Since the 2010 elections and the announcement of the reform process in 2011, Myanmar has seen

Aung San Suu Kyi with Thein Sein

plagues the space of minorities are laws related to curbs on interfaith marriage - that is one of the latest attempts to isolate the Muslim community.

Second, the government needs to identify some important constitutional changes related to Article 59(f) that currently disallows Daw Aung San Suu Kyi from holding the highest office in the country, as President.

The clause debars anyone who is related to a person of foreign citizenship from holding the office of President. This is a constitutional provision that is currently being challenged in Myanmar but it appears that the provision may not be scrapped before the elections at the end of 2015.

A report in The Sydney Morn-

some credible changes that have altered the perceptions of both regional countries and the international community. The 2012 by?election - where the National League for Democracy (NLD) won 43 seats of 45 seats - was seen as a watershed moment in the Process and was heralded as a marker of the shift shaping Myanmar.

However, the past few months have seen challenges to the reform process. They highlight the complex issues that need to be resolved to ensure the free?ness and fairness of the 2015 elections. They include constitutional reforms; greater freedom and space for the media; management of ethnic conflicts and communal violence; and viable political space for all minorities within Myanmar.

This Constitution strongly endorses a role for the military through the implementation of the National Defence and Security Council (NDSC) - that clearly visualises a role for the armed forces in two capacities: a. in the administration of the country via reservations in the parliament, and b. in the protection and preservation of the state This allows for one fourth of the parliamentary seats to be reserved for the armed forces - and is seen as crucial to the stability of the state.

Additionally, there exists a provision under Article 436 that currently demands over 75 per cent votes in the parliament to make amends to the Constitution - an impossible task given that 25 per cent of seats reserved for the military allows for the right to veto any move to reframe the charter.

It is more likely that she will end up taking the Chair in the Parliament that will be crucial role as this will bring in her leadership across party lines- that will also be crucial for achieving national reconciliation. In July 2014, Aung San Suu Kyi led a signature campaign towards amending this caveat; it still shows no signs of progress.

It is more likely that she will end up taking the Chair in the Parliament that will be a critical role as this will bring in her leadership across party lines - that will also be crucial for achieving national reconciliation.

A more significant amendment to the Constitution is the move to change article 436. This mandates that for any constitutional amendment to be passed, it needs over 75 percent of the votes in parliament.

This is near impossible to achieve given that the military enjoys a 25 percent veto privilege which divides the parliament vertically. The basic tenets of the IPCS Forecasts 2015 I Special Report #172, January 2015 4 democratic set up require a clear change in this provision that needs to be addressed. The run? up to the 2015 elections will be a period that will challenge the transition process within Myanmar.

The writer is Professor of Southeast Asian Studies and current Chair at the Centre for Indo-Pacific Studies, School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.

Article written for IPCS

Brain drain or gain

C

ome August, thousands of students will leave the shores of India for better education abroad. According to official US report 1,34,292 Indian students have been enrolled in universities this year. It comprises of second largest foreign students coming to US beside China. The number of students to New Zealand are also increasing. Australia, which registered a huge dip due to racial violence against Indian students. However, Indian enrolment in UK has been plummeting gradually.

To study abroad, decision making is a complex issue. It involves future prospects, cost of education, scholarships, availability of quality programs and opportunities of immigration that differ based on student's academic and financial ability. Studying abroad is expensive, still many prefer to study abroad if possible. It is huge investment for parents and many take long term loans to finance their education. WHY………

There are very few quality educational institutions in India. Even after the students acquire 90% in their high schools, there is no guarantee that they will get admission to good colleges. There are also several private institutions which demand enormous amount of donation. For people who can afford to send their children, there is no comparison to quality of education they will get abroad.

These students can be classified in two main segments: One go abroad to get better education and return back to India and another to find better job prospects after their graduation.

One of the main problem is the unemployment rate in India. With 1.20 billion population it is increasing day by day. Still the industry is facing shortage of skilled manpower. If the vacancy is for one post there will be at least 100 applicants and only one will get the job. Inflation is another reason. Indians in general tend not to take jobs below their grades. Many find difficult to work below their qualification. Low wages below market value are also the reasons.

Many companies prefer experience manpower. Many prefer government jobs and it is declining year by year. Slow growth rate and business expansion. Advanced technology and computers also contributed to unemployment where fewer people are needed to do same jobs. Finally, the corruption in government sector.

Now, what government should do and can do… Firstly to control population through various means which are practical and implementible. The quality of education should be improved and make it universal and it should be assessable to all. Improve skill training amongst rural population. More employment should be created in rural areas. Rapid industrialization should be created across India. Government should encourage more foreign companies to open and invest in rural India by offering sops and incentives to them. This will foster growth and create massive employment amongst youth. After many years we have the government which has the mandate of the people to implement these programs and if we miss this chance, it will take several years to recover what we have already lost.

Not too log ago, I met with the Korean Ambassador to India and asked him, "Tell me how and what Korea did that your country became so progressive within short span of time". He replied," We invested huge amount of funds into primary education for 15 years and paid almost double the salary to teachers who go to rural areas". He further said," Now, we are reaping the benefits of what we did 20 years ago". That means, there is no short cut or any popular schemes. What we need to do is to start as soon as possible the programs which will see our country shoulder to shoulder with the developed world.

Progressive and prosperous India will again attract people to return back to India with better pay package and quality living standards.

July 10, 2015

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