India Post_July 20, 2012 by Ghanshyam Bisht

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Telugu Who's Who grace ATA conference Details on page 14

Indian couple charged with $ 8.8mn fraud

VOL 18, No. 931

July 20, 2012

50¢

Periodical Postage

LONDON ASSEMBLY CONDEMNS DOW Tells Olympics body to end its sponsorship

Dara Singh is dead

The original muscle man of Bollywood Details on page 11

Gujarat continues to grow, team tells US Details on page 7

Details on page 8

India buys Gandhi archive for $ 1.28 million

Indian-origin doctors in insider trading case

Details on page 8

Nikki Haley won't be running mate

Boeing P-18 for India tested successfully

Details on page 9

Details on page 8

CONTENTS

Ranbaxy plans expansion in US, elsewhere Details on page 10

Bollywood ---------------------- 24-25 Classifieds ------------------------- 46 Community Post -------------- 12-23

VICTIMS’ VOICE: File photo of a recent protest against Dow Chemicals in Bhopal

Date Book -------------------------- 48 Edit Page --------------------------- 50

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

Should India boycott Olympics? Last week’s result

Higgs should reply to charge of anti-India bias? YES 67%

NO 33

LONDON: The London Assembly piled up pressure on the International Olympic Committee asking for a rethink on its relationship with the Dow chemical company as the sponsor of the games, in light of the Bhopal gas tragedy. A motion agreed at a meeting of the full Assembly urged the IOC and national organizing committees to consider the environmental, social, ethical and human rights records of companies when awarding high-profile partnership and sponsorship deals. As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance

on the Mayor. Dow is a Worldwide Olympic Partner and paid for the plastic wrap around the Olympic Stadium. Dow Chemical bought the Union Carbide Chemical Company, owners of the Bhopal pesticide plant in India where the 1984 disaster took place. Over 3,000 people are believed to have died in the December of 1984 in Bhopal due to the immediate after effects of the tragedy.

HealthScience Post --------- 34-37

Details on page 7

Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 29-31

Certified by “CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL Readership 117,765”

Horoscope ------------------------- 47 Immigration Post ------------- 38-40 India ---------------------------------- 41 Life Style ----------------------- 26-28 Philosophy ------------------------- 49 Publisher’s Diary ------------------ 4 Real Estate -------------------- 44-45 TechBiz Post ------------------- 42-43

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thought we were going through the 2012 election cycle, but sounds to me like it is a repeat of the 2004 campaign between then incumbent George W. Bush and Democratic hopeful John Kerry. If there was one dirty word that got spattered all around during the 2004 Presidential campaign, it was 'outsourcing'; and the images that were associated with that reviled word were those of Indian call centers. Outsourcing is once again being bandied as a hot potato issue this cycle. As champion of the middle class, President Obama is pushing his pitch to cut taxes for them and bring back to America jobs that have been shipped abroad by companies such as Romney's private equity firm Bain Capital. Of course Obama's entire first term has been about making life easier for the middle class by pinching the rich a little. He's called out companies with overseas operations and asked Congress to end tax breaks to such companies. But pragmatic that he appears to be, one did not expect him to try to flog a dead horse. Romney is having a tough time shaking off the rich guy image and in donning the mask of sympathy for the middle class. Still he is hitting back at Obama calling him "outsourcer-in-chief". He claims some of Obama's policies have resulted in creating jobs overseas. A lot has flown under the bridge in the last eight years in terms of debate and discussion and finally cooling off of the issue. One thought outsourcing had come to be accepted as a global economic reality. But nah… in American politics, no issue is passé once it enters electoral agendas; so like abortion rights or gay marriage, outsourcing will continue to be tossed around like a hot potato that nobody wants to hold, but everybody wants to get a piece of. Any move to curtail outsourcing will directly impact a lot of Indian jobs. Although as an election issue it's nothing more than rhetoric, I doubt if the lot of the working middle class, whether Indian or American, will get any better soon, outsourcing or no outsourcing.

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HIGHLIGHTS Bollywood: Kissing Barfee Anurag Basu’s film Barfee! will see the sizzling Ileana D'Cruz exchanging a tender-sweet kiss with Ranbir Kapoor.

Cover Story: Down with Dow The London Assembly has asked IOA to rethink its relationship with Dow chemical company as a sponsor of the games.

Community: Indian MPs at Yale 11 members of India's parliament took part in the 6th India-Yale Parliamentary Leadership Program from June 20 -30.

Health: New AAPI chief Dr. Narendra Kumar, who took over as new President of AAPI, is committed to leading it to greater heights.

12 34

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Life Style: World Choir Games The 7th World Choir Games, the 10-day Olympics of choral music, is actually happening now in Cincinnati.

Techbiz: Move on FDI Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma has hinted at relaxation in sourcing norms for FDI in single brand retail.

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Travel: Cochin In Cochin, referred to as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, a slow lividness at the mistobscured harbor meets the swelling ocean.

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London Assembly condemns Dow Tells Olympics body to end its sponsorship LONDON: The London Assembly piled up pressure on the International Olympic Committee asking for a rethink on its relationship with the Dow chemical company as the sponsor of the games, in light of the Bhopal gas tragedy. A motion agreed at a meeting of the full Assembly urged the IOC and national organizing committees to consider the environmental, social, ethical and human rights records of companies when awarding high-profile partnership and sponsorship deals. As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor. Dow is a Worldwide Olympic Partner and paid for the plastic wrap around the Olympic Stadium. Dow Chemical bought the Union Carbide Chemical Company, owners of the Bhopal pesticide plant in India where the 1984 disaster took place. Over 3,000 people are believed to have died in the December of 1984 in Bhopal due to the immediate after effects of the tragedy. Assembly member Navin Shah, who proposed the motion, said: "Almost 30 years after the horrific Bhopal chemical disaster, the factory site has still not been cleared up and the survivors and their families continue to fight for compen-

A group of Indian survivors of the December 1984 Union Carbide disaster hold placards during a protest against Dow Chemical and their sponsorship of the London Olympics in Bhopal on June 27

sation." "It is time for London Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) and the IOC to take their ethical and sustainability code seriously and exclude Dow Chemical from future sponsorship deals," he said. "It's not too late to clean up their act. We owe it to the victims

and their families to demand actions and implement changes to keep out the likes of Dow Chemical from future Games," he added. Darren Johnson, who seconded the motion, said: "There is a genuine excitement and enthusiasm about the Games across London, but it is in danger of being tarnished by association with

companies like Dow Chemical." "LOCOG and the IOC must tighten up the regulations around Olympic sponsors to ensure they don't make the same mistakes again," he said. "It is ridiculous to argue that a company could be absolved by a takeover deal. When Dow bought Union Carbine, alongside

all the assets they also took on the responsibility and it is high time they lived up to it," he added. The full text of the motion agreed at the meeting reads as follows: "This Assembly believes that the decision of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to select Dow as a Worldwide Partner has caused damage to the reputation of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games." "This Assembly feels the IOC and national organizing committees should consider the environmental, social, ethical and human rights records of companies when awarding high-profile partnership and sponsorship deals," it said. "The Assembly calls on the London Organizing Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) to recommend that the International Olympic Committee (IOC) introduces criteria for the selection of Worldwide partners and high profile sponsors for future Games that address the principles defined in their Olympic Charter, and that the IOC review their current partnership with Dow in light of those criteria," it added. The motion was agreed by 16 to 7 votes at a meeting of the full Assembly. -PTI

Gujarat continues to grow, team tells US India Post News Service

NEW YORK A high powered government and business delegation from Gujarat, led by Mr. D J Pandian, Principal Secretary, Department of Energy and Petrochemicals, met with the American business community in New York during a roadshow organized jointly by the Confederation of Indian Industry and the US India Business Council.

The principle message that the delegation sought to deliver is that even in a turbulent global economic scenario, and with domestic slowdown in India, Gujarat continues to grow and remains an investor friendly state. The delegation of 18 industry leaders, representing sectors like financial services, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, clean energy etc accompanied Mr. Pandian and other officials of the Government

Ambassador Nirupama Rao with the Indian delegation visiting U.S. to promote Global Summit, 'Vibrant Gujarat 2013', at the Embassy on July 10

of Gujarat for a 10 day visit to the United States and Canada. In his remarks, Mr. Pandian spoke of the tremendous strides made by Gujarat in becoming an attractive investment destination, with world class infrastructure, skilled labor force, and a stable and transparent bureaucratic, judicial and legal system. Mr. Pandian invited investors and industry representatives in New York to attend the Vibrant Gujarat 'investment festival' scheduled for 11-13 January 2013. Mr. Pandian pointed out that although India is an extremely pluralistic and diverse society, ultimately democracy stands firm at the end of the day. The resilience of its people, who are guided by liberty, freedom, peace and prosperity is truly India's greatest asset. Mr. Pandian particularly attributed the singular success of Gujarat in attracting and retaining businesses from all over the world to a combi-

Rao interacting with the Indian delegation

nation of political will and administrative skill. Mr. Pandian also highlighted the quest of the Government of Gujarat to undertake sustainable development, especially through environmentally friendly development policies and a renewed focus on clean energy. Clean energy technologies, waste management etc were stressed as areas where US companies have expertise and could be potential areas of investment and collaboration in Gujarat. Mr. Pandian also expressed

belief that some of the controversial policies enacted by the Central government would undergo changes in the near future. Also, he emphasized that if the Central government asked the states whether they would be open to multi-brand retail, the state of Gujarat would respond very positively. Mr. Bal Das, Executive Advisor, Aquiline Capital Partners LLC also spoke at the occasion about the remarkable growth story of Gujarat, and referred to the state as the growth engine of India.

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India buys Gandhi archive for $ 1.28 million LONDON/NEW DELHI: Mahatma Gandhi's prized documents and photographs, including those on his controversial relationship with architect Hermann Kallenbach, were saved from going under the hammer as India bought the treasure trove for a whopping USD 1.28 million. The archive, which belonged to Kallenbach, Gandhi's close friend and German Jewish bodybuilder, was to be auctioned at Sotheby's but it was cancelled after the back-channel talks by the Indian Government with the auction house and the family members of Kallenbach helped India take possession of the rare documents. The documents will now be housed at the National Archives of India in New Delhi. An agreement was finalized in consultation with Ministry of External Affairs and National Archives of India and was signed by the three parties - Government of India, Sotheby's and the family of Isa Sarid, the grandniece of Kallenbach. "The acquired material would be housed in the National Ar-

chives of India," Culture Minister Kumari Selja said in a statement in New Delhi. Though the Sarid family, which owns the treasure trove, quoted USD 5 million as price for the ar-

The archive, which is likely to be a rich source of information on Gandhi for researchers and historians, was recently examined by a team of experts from the Ministry of Culture, who de-

A photograph of Gandhi (left) with Kallenbach (right)

chives, finally an amount of USD 1.28 million was paid. "The payment of GBP 825,250 pounds (USD 1.28 million) has been released to Sotheby's and the lot has been withdrawn from auction and sold to the Government of India," the statement said.

scribed it as "very well preserved and of inestimable value". The archive includes several letters that throw fresh light on the controversial relationship between Gandhi and Kallenbach, one of the foremost associates and friends of Gandhi during his time in South Africa. -PTI

Indian couple charged with USD 8.8 million healthcare fraud

Romney lays into 'outsourcer-inchief' Obama

NEW YORK: An Indian-Ameri- tions were used to bill the Medican couple has been charged by care program. US federal authorities for running "Medicare fraud cheats taxa healthcare fraud scheme in payers out of money intended to which they claimed over eight mil- pay for health care. We want prolion dollars through false medical viders to know that we are scrutibills. nizing billing records to root out Usha Shah and Deepak Shah, fraud," McQuade said. both 63, of Michigan were charged in a federal indictment for their â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Medicare fraud cheats participation in a series of separate Medicare taxpayers out of money fraud schemes involving home health ser- intended to pay for health vices, US Attorney Bar- care. We want providers to bara McQuade said. According to the in- know that we are scrutinizdictment, the Shahs were allegedly involved ing billing records to root out in fraudulent claims fraud,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; McQuade said submitted to Medicare totaling more than 8.8 million dollars through their comFBI Acting Special Agent in pany, Miracle Home Health of Charge Edward Hanko said those Southfield, for home health care who seek to steal from the mediservices that were medically un- care system and collect millions necessary and never provided. of dollars illegally must be brought The Shahs also engaged in a to justice adding that the payment conspiracy to pay cash kickbacks of kickbacks in exchange for the in return for obtaining Medicare referral of Medicare beneficiaries beneficiaries? whose identifica- is also against the law. -PTI

GRAND JUNCTION, Colorado: Republican Mitt Romney, facing a Democratic assault over his business record and charges he shipped US jobs overseas, went on the offensive by pegging President Barack Obama as "outsourcer-in-chief." The issue of sending jobs to lowwage nations such as China and India has sharpened into a major point of contention in the White House race, with Romney and Obama accusing each other of enabling and even benefiting from the process. It's also linked to an electionyear clash over US trade policy and in particular Obama's stance on China, which Romney's campaign said has led to the president being "treated like a doormat" by Beijing. Obama's campaign released an advertisement claiming Romney "made a fortune" outsourcing US jobs to China while he was at the helm of his private equity firm Bain Capital. Romney, speaking at a town hall campaign stop in Grand Junction, Colorado, called the ad "false and misleading." -AFP

SEC charges Indian-origin doctors in insider trading case WASHINGTON: US market The five doctors have agreed regulator SEC has charged five to pay over USD 1.9 million to doctors, including some of Indian settle the case without admitting origin, in an insider trading case or denying the charges. and the physicians have agreed Mukkamala served as a memto pay more than USD 1.9 million ber of ACAP's board since its forto settle the charges. mation in July 2000. He became The doctors were charged of its chairman in May 2007. At a insider trading in the shares of a meeting on March 12, 2010, medical professional liability in- ACAP's board confidentially dissurance company, on the basis of cussed whether it should consider confidential information about an a potential sale of ACAP and inanticipated acquisition, SEC said structed company management to in a statement. evaluate whether or not to conThe SEC (Securities and Ex- tinue as an independent, standchange Commission) had charged that Apparao Mukkamala, The SEC alleges that as one of the five doctors, ACAP's board and managelearned confidential information from board ment continued undertaking meetings and other definite steps toward a sale, communications about Mukkamala routinely disthe anticipated acquisition of American Physi- closed material non-public cians Capital Inc information along the way to (ACAP) by another inthe other four physicians surance company. "Mukkamala in turn shared the non-public information alone company. with fellow physicians and friends The SEC alleges that as Suresh Anne, Jitendra Prasad ACAP's board and management Katneni and Rao A K Yalamanchili continued undertaking definite as well as his brother-in-law steps toward a sale, Mukkamala Mallikarjunarao Anne. routinely disclosed material non"The five physicians each pur- public information along the way chased ACAP stock based on to the other four physicians. confidential information about the Between April 30 and July 7, impending sale in the months lead- 2010, they illegally purchased ing up to a public announcement. nearly USD 2.2 million of ACAP Collectively, they made more than stock based on the confidential USD 623,000 in illegal profits on information that Mukkamala their ACAP stock following the shared, SEC said. announcement," the regulator Mukkamala himself made a said. trade in the trading account of The SEC's investigation team Chinmaya Mission West, a chariin the case also included an In- table organization for which he dian-origin person Paralegal was then serving as president, it Sruthi Talluri. added. -PTI

US poised to allow new investment in Myanmar WASHINGTON: The United States is poised to allow US companies to invest with Myanmar's state oil and gas enterprise as the Obama administration takes its biggest step yet to roll back sanctions, marking a rare break from democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Suu Kyi, the Nobel Peace laureate who has long been the guiding force on US policies toward Myanmar, last month advised against investment by foreign companies with the state Myanma Oil and Gas Enterprise, or MOGE, because of concerns over its accountability and transparency. Her comments reflected the growing disagreement between

human rights groups and business advocates over how the US should proceed in easing restrictions. While Suu Kyi has cautiously supported suspending sanctions as a reward for Myanmar's shift from five decades of authoritarian rule, she and other democracy advocates are wary about investment in MOGE, which had been an economic lifeline for the former ruling junta. But doing business with MOGE is the only way to gain access to Myanmar's potentially lucrative energy resources and US companies fear they will lose out to foreign competitors if the restrictions aren't lifted. -AP

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Nikki Haley won't be running mate

Nikki Haley with Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney

NEW YORK: South Carolina's Indian-American governor Nikki Haley has said that she was not being considered as a running mate for Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney. "No, I am not," Haley said after being asked if she was being vetted for the post of vice-president by the Romney campaign. "I have made it very clear from

the very beginning that I love my job, I love South Carolina and I made a promise to the people of my state (to complete my term) and I have to keep it," the Wall Street Journal quoted Haley as saying. Haley has been seen as a potential vice presidential pick for Romney in this year's US presidential elections.

But the Indian-origin governor has maintained she is not keen on the post of vice president. Romney's wife Ann Romney had said in an interview to CBS News that he is considering several female candidates for the number two spot ahead of the August Republican National Convention in Florida. -PTI

ADB lowers India's growth projection to 6.5 per cent NEW DELHI: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has lowered the growth forecast for India to 6.5 per cent for the current fiscal, from the earlier 7 per cent projection, on the back of subdued demand and high inflation. "India's economy is now expected to grow by 6.5 per cent in 2012, down from the previous forecast of 7 per cent. India's outlook is clouded by a combination of high inflation and poor demand, both externally and internally," the ADB said in its 'Outlook Supplement' report. It said that the weakness in the economy was reflected in declining business confidence, slow credit growth and subdued sales of automobile sector. "With persistently high inflation, monetary policy has little room to counter the slowdown in economic growth...high inflation and trade deficit make it difficult to ease monetary policy to stimulate demand," ADB said. The Reserve Bank is scheduled

to announce its quarterly review of monetary policy on July 31. Wholesale inflation was 7.55 per cent in May. At the retail level, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation for the same month was

ADB has cut its growth forecasts for developing Asia to 6.6 per cent for 2012 citing economic problems in the Eurozone and its impact on global demand. It had projected a 6.9 per cent growth for the region earlier 10.36 per cent. The Manila-based multilateral lender has also lowered the India's growth forecast for 2013 to 7.3 per

cent, from the 7.5 per cent projection made in April. ADB has cut its growth forecasts for developing Asia to 6.6 per cent for 2012 citing economic problems in the Eurozone and its impact on global demand. It had projected a 6.9 per cent growth for the region earlier. It further said that the decline in growth forecast for developing Asia was mainly on account of lower growth in India and China. . Moreover, ADB added, the global economic worries were also getting reflected in the plunge in business investment, and there could be slowing of growth in the second half of 2012. According to official projections, Indian economy is expected to grow at 7.6 per cent (+/- 0.25 per cent) in the current fiscal. While the RBI left its key policy rates unchanged in its last policy review in June, European Central Bank and People's Bank of China slashed their respective policy rate earlier this month to boost growth.-PTI

Boeing P-18 for India successfully tested WASHINGTON: Boeing has transition to 'stores' tests during successfully tested the first of the which the P-8I will carry inert eight P-8I long-range maritime re- weapon shapes under its wings connaissance and anti-submarine to demonstrate that the aircraft is warfare aircraft being built for the capable of carrying all the weapIndian Navy. ons the Indian Navy will use durThe aircraft, a next-generation ing regular missions." 737-800 derivative, began its offiThe stores the P-8I will carry cial flight test program on July 7, will have the identical shape and taking off from Boeing Field in size of real weapons, including the Seattle and landing three hours Harpoon anti-ship missile, depth and 49 minutes later after demon- bombs and torpedoes. strating flying qualities and hanIn order to efficiently design dling characteristics, Boeing said and build the P-8I and the P-8A, in a statement. the Boeing-led team is using a "This is an important milestone first-in-industry, in-line producfor the program and sets the stage tion process that draws on the for operational testing and weapons certification as we move closer to During the coming months, P-8I aircraft joining the Boeing test pilots will put the Indian Navy," the statement quoted Rear Adm D P-8I through its paces over a M Sudan, assistant chief US Navy test range west of of Naval Staff (Air) of InNeah Bay, Washington, and dian Navy as saying. The aircraft is being a joint US/Canadian test built for India as part of a contract awarded in Janu- range in the Strait of ary 2009 and the Boeing- Georgia, it said led team is on track to deliver the first aircraft to the Indian Navy in 2013, it said. company's Next-Generation 737 During the coming months, production system. Assembly is Boeing test pilots will put the P-8I complete on the second P-8I airthrough its paces over a US Navy craft and it will make its first flight test range west of Neah Bay, in the coming weeks. Washington, and a joint US/CaThe P-8I features open system nadian test range in the Strait of architecture, advanced sensor Georgia, it said. and display technologies, and a "Today's flight is another on- worldwide base of suppliers, parts time milestone for the program," and support equipment. said Leland Wight, Boeing P-8I The aircraft are built by a program manager. Boeing-led industry team that in"We'll start out testing the P- cludes CFM International, 8I's mission system, which in- Northrop Grumman, Raytheon, cludes its sensors and communi- Spirit AeroSystems, BAE Systems cation systems. The team then will and GE Aviation. -PTI

Thanks for going out of the way to help: Krishna to Pak PHNOM PENH: India has thanked Pakistan for going "out of their way" in providing all possible assistance to passengers of the Air India flight that made an emergency landing in the neighboring country's southern Sindh province. "I would like to convey my sincere appreciation and my thanks to the helpful attitude and cooperation that we received when an Air India flight had to land in Pakistan," External Affairs Minister S M Krishna said here. He added, "I think the Government of Pakistan went out of their way to make things easy for all those who were inside the aircraft

and they provided every possible assistance including feeding the passengers who were on board the aircraft," he said. "This certainly is something which India deeply appreciates," Krishna, who is here to attend an ASEAN meet, said. Over 120 passengers and crew of an Air India plane from Abu Dhabi had made an emergency landing in Pakistan's Nawabshah airport after emergency lights in the cockpit showed that the hydraulics had failed. A relief plane was then sent to Pakistan to bring back the passengers who arrived later in the evening.-PTI

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Ranbaxy planning expansion in US, elsewhere PLAINSBORO TOWNSHIP, NJ: The head of Indian drugmaker Ranbaxy Laboratories Ltd says he's charging ahead with plans to expand sales in the crucial US market, despite extra oversight from American regulators over quality questions that have blocked imports of 31 of its medicines. Ranbaxy, which almost exclusively makes generic pills, particularly is aiming to regularly be first on the US market with just-approved generic drugs, CEO Arun Sawhney told The Associated Press in an interview. His goal is to nab the six-month "windfall" period when there's usually only one generic version on sale, for roughly 25 per cent less than the price of the brand-name drug whose patent just ended. Companies can make tens of millions of dollars then, as Ranbaxy just did in selling the first generic rival to cholesterol blockbuster Lipitor, whose US patent expired on November 30. After that half-year stretch, five or more generic versions of the brand-name drug hit the market and prices plunge 90 per cent or more. That leaves razor-thin profit margins for all the competing generic companies, Sawhney said, joking about the difference be-

tween brand-name and generic drug companies. "They make profits. We make drugs," said Sawhney, who became CEO in August 2011. Discussing his plans during a visit to Ranbaxy's US headquarters in central New Jersey, Sawhney noted his company has just launched its first brand-name drug, a malaria treatment called

Companies can make tens of millions of dollars then, as Ranbaxy just did in selling the first generic rival to cholesterol blockbuster Lipitor, whose US patent expired on November 30 Synriam that is the first brandname drug ever developed in India. That's because the hundreds of drugmakers based in India all make inexpensive generic medicines, as most of the country's 1.1 billion people cannot afford brand-name drugs that can cost

thousands of dollars. Sawhney is hoping to sell some brand-name drugs in the US eventually and plans in about six months to start selling a recently approved generic version of acne drug Accutane. "The US, as a total business, will remain the most important to us," he said. Ranbaxy, the top-selling pharmaceutical company in India, is just the 12th-largest generic drugmaker in the US by number of prescriptions filled. But in just a few years, its US sales have risen from about a quarter to a third of its total revenue, which was about USD 2.1 billion last year. In the first quarter of 2012, global sales jumped 55 percent to about USD 736 million. That's partly because of strong US sales, particularly from new generic versions of Lipitor and a combo pill containing Lipitor and bloodpressure medicine Norvasc. It's quite a turnaround after the black eye Ranbaxy suffered when the US Food and Drug Administration in 2008 banned the import of 31 of its generic medicines including generic versions of the popular antibiotic Cipro and the cholesterol pill Zocor. The FDA cited manufacturing quality concerns at two plants, in Dewas and Paonta Sahib, In-

dia, and months later it accused Ranbaxy of lying about some test results on its drugs. "It hit our bottom line bigtime," Sawhney said. "It did slow down our growth plans in the US." The ban took away about half Ranbaxy's sales in the US, but factories not affected were able to continue shipping other ge-

After lengthy investigation and discussion with the FDA, the two parties reached an eleventh-hour agreement that requires improvement of various procedures and five years of intense oversight neric drugs here. However, a third factory involved in the probe, in Gloversville, New York, was shut down because it was too small to make a major investment there worthwhile, Sawhney said. Sawhney, who had just joined Ranbaxy when the scandal broke, said there were no problems with

the safety or effectiveness of the drugs from those factories, just "sloppiness in documentation." After lengthy investigation and discussion with the FDA, the two parties reached an eleventhhour agreement that requires improvement of various procedures and five years of intense oversight and review by an independent third-party, which is preparing an action plan. That's likely to be announced in August, but some changes have already been made. The agreement came late on the night of November 30, the day the patent expired for Pfizer Inc.'s cholesterol fighter Lipitor, which had long been the world's top-selling medicine, with peak sales of USD 13 billion. One of Ranbaxy's two factories in New Jersey was able to immediately start shipping generic Lipitor to pharmacies around the country, averting what would have been a huge missed opportunity. Instead, from December through May Ranbaxy sold about USD 953 million worth of generic Lipitor, called atorvastatin, according to health data firm IMS Health. Several other generic drugmakers then began selling their own versions.-AP

India, ASEAN press for early FTA in services & investment PHNOM PENH: India and tennation ASEAN here pushed for early conclusion of a bilateral FTA in services and investment and expansion of their trade and economic ties as they reviewed the entire canvas of their relationship, including cooperation in the maritime security in the region. Addressing the annual ASEAN-India Ministerial meeting in the Cambodian capital, External Affairs Minister S M Krishna highlighted the need to swiftly conclude the free trade agreement in services and investment and expansion of communication links with the member States of the ASEAN considered one of the world's fastest growing regions. "We believe that the early conclusion of the ASEAN-India Services and Investment Agreements would give a strong fillip to our economic engagement," he told the annual meeting attended by Foreign Ministers and top officials of the ASEAN countries. India and the ASEAN have already implemented a free trade agreement in goods and are engaged in intense negotiations to widen its base and include services and investments. ASEAN member nations com-

prising Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam also favored finalizing the FTA as soon as possible, saying it

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;India's relationship with ASEAN is a key cornerstone of our foreign policy and the foundation of our Look East Policy. We have attempted to anchor this within the larger context of Asia as an engine for global growth and prosperity,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Krishna said would further enhance cooperation in trade and commerce. "All the member countries agreed that a full-fledged pact will further fuel trade and commerce between ASEAN nations and India," sources said.

In his address, Krishna said India views Asia as a global engine of growth and would like to expand cooperation with ASEAN as it is a driving force of economy

nomic downturn. Two-way trade between ASEAN and India in 2011-12 reached USD 80 billion," Krishna said.

Foreign Minister S. M. Krishna speaks during the ASEAN-India meeting held on the sideline of the 45th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign ministers meeting on July 11

of the region. Issues relating to maritime security also came up for discussion in the meeting. "The story of economic growth in our partnership is meeting expectations despite the global eco-

The India-ASEAN Trade in Goods (TIG) Agreement was signed in August 2010 after six years of negotiations and it came into force on January 1 last year. Services and Investments could not be included in that free

trade agreement as the two sides failed to reconcile their differences in time and it was decided to have a separate pact on these sectors. "India's relationship with ASEAN is a key cornerstone of our foreign policy and the foundation of our Look East Policy. We have attempted to anchor this within the larger context of Asia as an engine for global growth and prosperity," Krishna said. A number of ASEAN Foreign Ministers also appreciated India's efforts in setting up of the Nalanda University. Seeking expansion of the ties, Krishna said a number of project proposals are being finalized between ASEAN and India through the ASEAN Secretariat, reflecting the "earnest desire" of the two sides to deepen the engagement in diverse sectors. "Geographic, institutional and people-to-people connectivity, elinkages, capacity building across sectors, cooperation in frontier areas like space technology, agriculture, energy, environment and biodiversity are some of the areas that I would suggest for particular attention in the months ahead," he said.-PTI

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The original muscle man of Bollywood - Dara Singh MUMBAI: Standing tall with rippling muscles, wrestler-actor Dara Singh was a name to reckon with in the world of wrestling who ventured into an unusual territory - films. The 83-year-old will always be remembered for his variety of roles in cinema and on the small screen, the most memorable being that of Hanuman in the iconic show 'Ramayan'. Apart from making a name for himself in professional wrestling, Singh also acted in a number of Punjabi and Hindi films. Born in a Jat Sikh family to Balwant Kaur and Surat Singh Randhawa in November 1928 in the village Dharmuchak of Amritsar district in Punjab, Singh was trained in Indian style of wrestling,

Pehlwani. Apart from wrestling in tournaments, he wrestled on invi-

Apart from wrestling in tournaments, he wrestled on invitation of kings of Indian princely states in fairs and carnivals. Singh won the title of 'Rustam-E-Punjab' and 'Rustam-e-Hind' for his wrestling prowess tation of kings of Indian princely states in fairs and carnivals.

In the world of wrestling, he competed against some of the greatest names like King Kong (Australia), George Gordienko (Canada), John Desilva (New Zealand) and others. Singh won the title of 'Rustam-E-Punjab' and 'Rustam-e-Hind' for his wrestling prowess. Also, he became the Commonwealth Champion in 1959 and in 1996 he was inducted into the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame. Singh included over 500 professional fights to his credit, all undefeated. After his retirement from wrestling in 1983, the Commonwealth wrestling champion then turned towards showbiz in 1952 with "Sangdil".-PTI

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;End of an era with Dara Singhâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; MUMBAI: Bollywood celebrities mourned the death of wrestler-actor Dara Singh, saying India has lost its real superhero and the symbol of strengh. Singh, who was battling for life since the last five days, lost his fight with death on July 12. He was 83. Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who played Dara Singh's son in 1985 action film "Mard", said it was the end of an era. "Dara Singh ji passed away this morning. A great Indian and one of the finest humans... An entire era of his celebrated presence gone!," Bachchan, 69, wrote on Twitter His son Abhishek Bachchan,

who also worked with Dara Singh in one of his early films "Shararat", said the wrestler gave the best hugs. "Dara ji passes away. Had the honour of working with him in Shararat. The most gentle and kind man. Really looked up to him. Will miss him. He was always so loving and gave the best hugs." Shah Rukh Khan said, "Wrestlers are made of sweat, determination and a hard to find alloy called guts... Most apt for Dara Singhji our very own Superman. Will miss you sir." Director Imtiaz Ali, who cast Dara Singh as a stern but lovable grandfather in 'Jab We Met', said, "It's a great loss... It's sad that he

As Hanuman in Ramayan

is not with us now. I wish for peace for the departed soul and his family. I was following up on what was happening with his health recently." Director Sajid Khan said Singh, who had worked with his father in many films, was like a father figure. "I feel I have lost my father again. He was a very nice human being. I feel India has lost its symbol of strength." "Sad to know the great Dara Singh ji is no more. Some more goodness taken away from us... He was Hanuman for every kid...," posted Akshay Kumar. 'Kahaani' director Sujoy Ghosh recalled watching Dara Singh's films with his father. "My dad made me watch most of Dara Singh's b&w films. them were the adventures, esp Faulaad. I believed everything Dara Singh did. He could," Ghosh wrote. "RIP DARA SINGH.....have the most heartfelt memories...," posted Karan Johar. "RIP dara sigh ji ... Was a privilege to have know him and worked with him," wrote Shahid Kapoor. Director Shekhar Kapur wrote, "RIP Dara Singh. At grand old age he used to stride down Juhu beach, body erect, smile on his face at a pace faster than 20 year olds." "RIP Dara Singh Ji!," Bipasha Basu wrote. "RIP Rustam-e-Hind. The strong man of India will be miss dearly," Madhur Bhandarkar posted. "RIP Dara Singh ji... The Original Indian Super Hero!," Shirish Kunder tweeted.-PTI

Most memorable fight with King Kong NEW DELHI: Wrestler- a few feet from the crowd. turned-actor Dara Singh, who His bouts with King Kong passed away in Mumbai on July invariably attracted huge 12, will be remembered for one crowds who were left fascinated of the most exciting fights in the by the show of strength and history of wrestling competitions skills. when he lifted an almost 200kg Apart from Dara Singh and King Kong of Australia over his King Kong, Flash Gordon was head and twirled him around. the third wrestler who ruled the In what went down in the his- ring in 1950s. tory as one of the most breathAnd the myths created by taking fights in the wrestling the press agents made these ring, Dara Singh, weighing 130 wrestlers seem to be invincible kg, lifted King men, so to see Kong over his them fighting head and in the ring twirled him was like around in drawatching two matic fashion. invincibles It made King trying to deKong yell at stroy each the referee, reother. minding him W h i l e that this was Dara Singh not in the rules. used to eat When the enormous referee tried to number of come and stop chapatis, it, Dara Singh King Kong virtually threw used to swalthe Australian low chickens out of the ring by the dozKing Kong and he fell just ens.-PTI

Desi News Telugu Who's Who grace ATA conference India Post News Service

Chicago & Atlanta Spelling Bee winners announced India Post News Service

Sai Baba temple holds Sai Sandhya India Post News Service

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CAIR holds 'Summer Night for Civil Rights' Details on page 23

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July 20, 2012

Indian MPs debate fragile global economy & US poll at Yale India Post News Service

NEW HAVEN, CT: The fragile global economy, the evolving political and economic crises in the Middle East and Europe, and the 2012 U.S. Presidential elections, along with the challenges of leadership, dominated the 6th IndiaYale Parliamentary Leadership Program that began on June 20 and concluded June 30. Yale University, widely recognized for educating leaders in government, business, and civil society worldwide, launched the India-Yale Parliamentary Leadership Program in 2007, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the India-US Forum of Parliamentarians. The first five rounds of the India-Yale Parliamentary Leadership Programs were held in October 2007, June 2008, June 2009, June 2010, and June 2011 respectively, with different delegations of Indian parliamentarians. In total, more than seventy members of India's parliament will have participated since the program was created six years ago. The 2012 cohort of 11 members of India's parliament came to the Yale University campus in New Haven, Connecticut on June 20 to complete a six-day leadership program with Yale faculty that is now being complemented by a fourday program of meetings, discussions, and interactions in Washington, D.C. with senior officials of the U.S. Government. The 2012 participants are drawn from seven different national and regional political parties in India. Yale President Richard C. Levin said: "The India - Yale Parliamentary Leadership Program underscores Yale's longstanding commitment to educating our students for service and leadership. We have now gone a step further to include emerging and mid-career leaders. The program will provide the parliamentarians with opportunities to critically think about the challenges of leadership and to explore freely, away from the legislative arena, the issues facing India." Baijayant (Jay) Panda, Chair-

Indian parliamentarians pose for a photo with Yale University President Richard C. Levin in front of Yale University. (Pic courtesy Yale University)

man of the India-US Forum of Parliamentarians, said, "This annual leadership program for Indian parliamentarians at Yale University, now in its sixth year, has been widely appreciated by those of us serving in politics. The presentations and discussions cover a range of topics and ideas, by and with some of the top academics in the world, and the setting is excellent for vigorous but non-partisan exchanges of views. That more than seventy of us will have at-

lic policy discussions." FICCI President R. V. Kanoria stated that "The program is designed to provide Indian parliamentarians with opportunities to critically think about the current global issues and leadership challenges in a neutral environment. With some of the world-renowned experts of Yale, the parliamentarians get an opportunity to interact with them on a wide spectrum of global issues as well as on issues relating to leadership and

The 2012 cohort of 11 members of India's parliament came to the Yale University campus in New Haven, Connecticut on June 20 to complete a six-day leadership program with Yale faculty that is now being complemented by a four-day program of meetings, discussions, and interactions in Washington, D.C. tended this program, and that many more want to attend in the years ahead only underscores the stature of the Yale program among India's parliamentarians." FICCI Secretary General Rajiv Kumar stated: "When launched by Yale University in collaboration with FICCI and the India-U.S. Forum of Parliamentarians, the program was the first of its kind for Indian parliamentarians. Yale University will help the parliamentarians in achieving a greater and more informed engagement in pub-

management." In the academic program on the Yale campus, the delegation participated in discussions with Yale faculty on global economic governance, the U.S. economy, corruption in government, counterinsurgency efforts in Afghanistan, political developments in the Arab world, the U.S. Presidential elections, the economic and political crises in the Eurozone, Iran's nuclear program, political and economic developments in China, and higher educa-

tion in India, along with sessions on leadership, strategy, negotiation, and applied game theory. In Washington, the delegation held meetings with officials in the highest levels of the U.S Department of State, US Department of Defense, and the White House, along with private sessions with thought leaders and former US government officials to better understand the U.S. economic and political system. The participating 2012 parliamentarians are: Baijayant Panda (Lok Sabha- Biju Janata Dal Party, Orissa and Chairman, India-US Forum of Parliamentarians); Dinesh Trivedi (Lok Sabha-All India Trinamool Congress Party, Barrackpur, West Bengal and Former Union Cabinet Minister for Railways); Birendra Prasad Baishya (Rajya Sabha, Asom Gana Parishad Party, Assam and Former Union Cabinet Minister, Steel and Mines); Thomas Sangma, (Rajya Sabha-Nationalist Congress Party, Meghalaya); Madhu Goud Yaskhi, (Lok Sabha-Indian National Congress Party, Nizamabad, Andhra Pradesh); Shivkumar Udasi (Lok Sabha, Bharatiya Janata Party, Haveri, Karnataka); Manicka Thakur (Lok Sabha, Indian National Congress Party, Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu); Ajoy Kumar (Lok Sabha, Jharkhand Vikaas Morcha Party-Jamshedpur, Jharkhand); Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 13

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Telugu initiative at Emory University

Minister for State for Defense Pallam Raju, Rajender Dichpally and Dr. Rajender Reddy Jinna (President, American Telugu Association) India Post News Service

ATLANTA, Georgia: The renowned Emory University has started a Telugu Initiative to raise money to establish an endowed chair in Telugu Studies in order to teach Telugu literature, culture, and history on a permanent basis at Emory. Emory University, located in Atlanta, Georgia, is already well known for its program in Kuchipudi dance and Telugu cultural studies. Emory has on its faculty luminaries such as His Holiness the Dalai Lama and former American president Jimmy Carter. The Telugu Initiative at Emory University is directed by Professor Joyce Flueckiger (Department of Religion) who is well-connected with Andhra, and has conducted

anthropological fieldwork in Hyderabad and Tirupati that has resulted in the publication of two books focused on Andhra religious traditions. She works closely with Dr. Velcheru Narayana Rao, distinguished visiting Professor at the University. They have already raised over $750 thousand for this initiative and are looking for active support and donations for another $750 thousand to establish a permanent Telugu Chair at Emory University. The Union Minister of State for Defense Pallam Raju visited Emory University on July 7 to learn about and offer his support of the Telugu initiative. He exchanged ideas with the Emory faculty promoting the initiative and expressed his apprecia-

Magam Ranga Reddy (MLC and advisor to the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh), V.Narayan Rao, Pallam Raju,(third from right) Joyce Flueckiger, Rajender Dichpally at the Emory University Campus.

tion for the goals of the initiative. He offered his support in efforts to obtain financial support from the Government of Andhra Pradesh. He expressed keen inter-

est in the museum of art and literature at Emory University and spent some time in exploring important land marks and checking the vast campus of the Emory University.

He was accompanied on this visit by MLC Magam Ranga Reddy, Rajender Dichpally, and other members from the Telugu associations of Atlanta.

Indian Minister for state for Defense Pallam Raju, Professor Joyce Flueckiger, V.Narayan Rao, Magam Ranga Reddy and Rajender Dichpally (Secretary, Indian American Forum for Political Education)

Indian MPs debate economy, US poll at Yale Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 12

Mukut Mithi (Rajya Sabha, Indian National Congress Party-Arunachal Pradesh); Vandana Chavan (Rajya Sabha, Nationalist Congress Party, Maharashtra) and Kamlesh Paswan (Lok Sabha, Bharatiya Janata Party, Bansgaon, Uttar Pradesh). The parliamentarians are accompanied by Ramesh Chandran, Executive Director, India-US Forum of Parliamentarians and Advisor, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry. According to George Joseph, vice president of Yale University, Yale has a long and distinguished record of educating government leaders. Graduates of Yale have included five American presidents, more than five hundred members of United States Congress, more than 60 U.S. Cabinet secretaries, 20 Justices of the Supreme Court of the United States, and former heads of state of Germany, Korea, and Mexico. Since its founding in 1701, Yale has educated leaders and public servants for all sectors of American society and, increasingly, around the world. Yale's tradition of

leadership and public service is found in every branch of government in the United States. Yale's graduates are leaders in all areas of human endeavor - the arts, business, law, medicine, science, and civil society, and have led or are leading hundreds of the most recognizable global brands. In recent years, recognizing that the complexity and demands of geo-political and

pan, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Nigeria, Argentina, and the United Arab Emirates. Other specialized programs such as the Yale Global Health Leadership Institute draw health leaders from a range of African nations. The India-Yale Parliamentary Leadership Program was developed in consultation with the parliamentarians and the India-U.S. Forum of Parliamentarians and reflects the be-

The Forum, constituted on the lines of "Senate Friends of India" Group and the "India Caucus" in the United States Congress, today, has more than 130 lawmakers cutting across party lines, with many of its members heading or serving in vital policy planning parliamentary committees economic affairs during the twenty-first century will require that governments at all levels have inspired leaders, Yale has sought to engage the rising leadership of the world's most consequential countries through leadership development programs in the United States. Yale has since 2004 held governmental programs for senior leaders from China, Ja-

lief that exposure to new fields and ideas can offer insight, perspective, and new ways of thinking for one's own work. Lectures, discussions, and private meetings with renowned practitioners in their areas will complement the curricular activities of the Yale program. Faculty for the program is drawn from experts at Yale, as well as research institutes, government offices, and

the private sector. The India-US Forum of Parliamentarians is a body of leading Indian parliamentarians representing the broad political spectrum of India from both Houses of Parliament - the Lok Sabha (Lower House) and the Rajya Sabha (Upper House). The Forum was formed six years ago with the support of FICCI. The Forum, constituted on the lines of "Senate Friends of India" Group and the "India Caucus" in the United States Congress, today, has more than 130 lawmakers cutting across party lines, with many of its members heading or serving in vital policy planning parliamentary committees. Encompassing all aspects of Indo-US relations, the Forum makes an effort to facilitate wider exchange of dialogue on crucial issues of bilateral and global concerns between parliamentarians of India and their counterparts in the US, senior US government administration officials, business leaders, opinion-makers and the Indian-American community. The Forum through Track II initiatives adds an important parliamentary dimension to the bilateral relations.

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Telugu Who's Who grace ATA conference

ATA executives at a religious ceremony India Post News Service

ATLANTA, Georgia: American Telugu Association's 12th Conference and Youth Convention concluded its three-day event here on July 8 on a very high note with a scintillating and exhilarating music concert by Thaman Group, keeping the audience of over 8,000 people mesmerized. The other programs beginning from opening night of Banquet Dinner through the concluding night were equally enthralling. The prestigious awards ceremony followed by actress Hansa Nandini's dance was out of this world. The banquet dinner was attended by over 3500 people in a jam packed and specially decorated Murphy Ballroom in Georgia World Congress Center. The audience included union and state ministers, political leaders, sportsmen, Tollywood stars etc. The music performance by US talent followed by Bhuvana Kruthi, a child protĂŠgĂŠ and popular singers Revanth and Vijayalakshmi from Andhra Pradesh was a teaser to the audience to keep guessing as to what was in store for the next two days. While parents were en-

ATA executive Hanumanth Reddy lightning the lamp to inaugrate 12th ATA Convention in Atlanta on 7th July.

lighting the lamp, singing national anthems, Swagatha Geetham song followed by an Inaugural theme dance in praise of Telugu heritage. Swamy Chidatmananda from Chinmaya Mission, chief guest Pallam Raju, Union Minister of State for Defense, State Ministers DK Aruna, Sriddhar Babu, TV9 fame Ravi Prakash, and other

New Jersey State Assemblyman Upendra Chivukula who is running for US Congress speaking at 12th ATA conference

guests addressed the audience. Eminent speakers at all seminars including business, women, political and NRI forums, spiritual

Mohammed Azharuddin, former skipper and MP, presenting ATA 2012 best Cricket team trophy during American Telugu Association Conference

joying the Banquet night, youth started the conference kick-off with a 5-hour cruise. The Inaugural day opening ceremony was a sight to watch with

sessions and "Encounter with Ravi Prakash" etc were attended by hundreds of people filling the rooms on both days. Singles Meet was another highlight of the con-

ference. The singing and dance competitions were equally entertaining. The Avadhanam by Garikipati Narasimha Rao Garu was hailed as one of the best ever at any of the conferences in America and was attended by a few thousand people. ATA life time achievement

AP Minister for Information Smt. D.K. Aruna lightning the lamp

ciple of Sri. Chinnasatyam was felicitated for her contribution to Kuchpudi Nritya. ATA's Philanthropist award was given to Dr. Hanimireddy Lakkireddy who has been in the forefront of helping those in need and continually striving to improve quality of life of people living here in USA and in Andhra

YSR party workers celebrating YSRs birthday at ATA Conference on 8th July (Pics: Mohammed Jaffer-SnapsIndia)

award was given to Sri. Vempati Chinnasatyam garu in recognition for his contribution to the Kuchipudi Nritya art and for keeping alive an old art which is now passed on to a new generation of

Pradesh. The food provided by Sawgath Group headed by Jayaram Komati was a delight to all and everyone had a compliment for the taste and service. The audio/video arrange-

The wife of NTR Laksmi Parvathi speaking to ATA 2012 convention

Americans of Telugu origin. He was felicitated in Chennai during the prime time with a live telecast. It was an honor for ATA that Sri. Chinnasatyam garu accepted this award. Dr. Shobha Naidu, a dis-

Prashanth and Jayaram. The cultural programs presented during prime time on both days were spectacular. Dil Raju and Vamshi Paidipalli of Tollywood were amazed with the quality of performances and complimented ATA for promoting and encouraging amateur artists and choreographers. The mimicry by Jithendra Nath and comedy by AVS, Venumadhav, Gundu Hanmanth Rao, Hema, Srinivas Reddy, Gowtham Raju were well received by the audience. ATA felicitated political leaders from all over Andhra Pradesh who took the time to attend the conference. ATA also thanked Ileana D'Cruz for coming to the conference and for being a an active participant in the Tollywood Meet & Greet program where the audience had an opportunity to question her, Vamshi and AVS group in an open forum. Thanks are also due to former Indian Cricket Captain and present member of Parliament Mohammad Azharuddin who took time from his busy schedule to attend the conference. ATA could attract more than

Telugu Actress Ileana D'Cruz

ments on the main stage and all across the meeting halls was superb thanks to ByteGraph Creations owned by Prashanth. Prashanth redefined the quality to set a higher standard. Thanks are due to both

130 vendors who exhibited booths at this conference and provided an opportunity for the attendees to shop to their heart's content. More pics on page 16

July 20, 2012

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15,000 participate in 4th of July celebrations

EDISON, NJ: Over 15,000 diversified Americans from various faiths, religions and color celebrated American Independence Day on 4th of July in Edison, NJ organized by South Asian Community Outreach (SACO). The South Asian Community Outreach organization kicked off the July 4th American Independence Day Celebration at the sprawling Edison Municipal Park, aka Lake Papaianni Park near Edison Municipal Complex in Edison, NJ. The event was held

sor TV Asia exclusively. South Asian Community Outreach (SACO) is a non-profit organization and Sam Khan is the founder and Chairman. The mission of South Asian Community Outreach "Unity in Diversity" has been widely supported by the local community. The objective of SACO is to build a bridge between various ethnic groups in the diverse Central Jersey community and create a social, cultural and political awareness among South Asian community in America. SACO provides South Asian immigrants with an opportunity for

between 4:00 pm and 9:30 pm. "This celebration is very significant as it is a loud expression in the form of this celebration by the South Asian community, whose members have contributed a great deal in sustaining the economy of New Jersey", said State Senator Thompson. The event was sponsored by TV Asia, JFK Health Care Systems and Edison Lions Visionary Club. There were plenty of food booths, kids rides, cultural programs from Indian, Chinese, Jewish and American performers. The event concluded with a grand spectacular firework display. The event was televised live by the grand spon-

transition and integration into the community. Sam pointed out that the South Asian community is moving forward to be a force to reckon with in mainstream America. "We are connected with our roots while making our contributions as responsible citizens of the United States", said Sam, who has galvanized the community to play an important role in integrating diverse ethnic groups in Central New Jersey. "People of South Asian origin are proud to be part of the American culture", said Piyush Patel, Chairman and leader of the 2012, 4th of July Celebration Committee.

India Post News Service

Mr. Patel also stated, "We are celebrating the American Independence Day as our way to express our gratitude to this great nation". Independence Day celebrations symbolize these objectives of our organization." For the first time SACO brought people from different faith, culture, religion and color cooperatively to celebrate the 4th of July festivities. Among the Guests of Honor

were State Senator Joe Kyrillos and State Senator Samuel D. Thompson, Edison Mayor Antonio Ricigliano, President Robert Karabinchak, Tom Lankey and other members of the Edison Council, President of Edison Chambers of Commerce Ms. Barbara Roos, leaders of Indian and South Asian Community H R Shah, Ramesh Patel (FIA), Dr. Sudhir Parikh, Bipin Patel, Anil

Patel and Farooque Kidwai. Mr. Khan & Exec VP Sarvesh Dharayan attributed the event's success to the sponsors and the SACO team consisting of Mahesh Chitnis, Srujal Parikh, Nilesh Dasondi, Ankur Vaidya, Iliyas Qureshi, Parul Amin, Kaushal Thakkar, Imran Khan, Ram Gadula, Thakur Balsara, Natu Patel, Rati Patel, Seema Jagtiani and the entire team.

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July 20, 2012

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Telugu Who's Who grace ATA conference

Mohammed Azharuddin MP, speaking at ATA meet

4th VAMSEE International -American Telugu Association TSR Awardees at ATA meet in Gerogia, Atlanta (Pics: Mohammed Jaffer-SnapsIndia)

Rajinder Jinna, ATA President speaking at ATA meet

Mohammed Azharuddin former skipper, Iftaquar Shareef, Mohammed Jaffer of SnapsIndia,Kavitha KCR at ATA meet

VVIPs and delegates of ATA 2012 stood up for the Indian National Anthem on the second day

Telugu Actress Ileana with her fans

Telugu kids getting ready for their performance

Madhu Yasakhi Speaking at Telangana Development form at ATA meet

A dance performance

A section of the large audience

ATA Fashion Show

Community Across America

July 20, 2012

India Post 17

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New Midwest Chief of AI welcomed in Chicago

Skokie Indians join July 4th Parade

SURENDRA ULLAL

Air India new Midwest Chief Rishikant Singh, Midwest Manager Jude Crasto and Air India Executive Ms Katherine Thorat

CHICAGO: A special function was hosted on Thursday, July 5 at the Meadows Club, Rolling Meadows, Illinois by Jude Crasto, Manager Midwest, Air India to welcome and introduce Rishikant Singh, Manager Designate of the Air India Midwest region. Jude Crasto is leaving Chicago for India to assume new responsibility of his next position in the main office of Air India in Mumbai. Introducing Rishikant, Jude Crasto gave a brief outline of his education, experience and many responsible offices held by him in Mumbai and then in the Middle East. Rishikant had his early as well as advanced education in India. He worked with the Revenue Department of the Airline. There-

He said that it was not unusual to develop some minor irritants in the course of business, because of the kind of work that the Air India is doing, which is nothing but promoting goodwill as well as trying to offer as good service as possible. But to err is human and therefore he averred, "I urge you to forgive if any such instances occur." As far as Air India is concerned, it has always been its ideal and aim to make the passengers happy in all respects. "As far as I am concerned Air India is perhaps the best link to showcase India, her culture and her people, and we are doing just that and I am sure this will continue. I wish to add that one of the reasons for India's success in recent times was the air-

Dinner gathering (from right) Jude Crasto, Anil Gidwany and Pradeep Roy Singh

fore, he added that he brings a well rounded experience to help further the cause of Air India, which symbolizes India, her culture and people in America making him ideally suited to continue the good work of the department in Chicago, which along with New York is the bastion of promoting India, her people and culture in the U.S. Rishikant was the Station Manager of Air India in the MidEast, at Kuwait before coming to Chicago. Gratefully acknowledging the support, confidence and the honor the people of India settled in the Midwest bestowed on him, he said it was indeed hurtful to depart from this lovely community. He hoped that the same kind of support, rather even better kind would be extended to Rishikant.

line called, 'Air India.' It is our country's link with other countries and as always referred to as "The Flying Ambassador of India. Air India adds value," he said. Rishikant in his brief address assured the Indian community that he would endeavor to offer the best possible assistance and service to the traveling members of Indian Diaspora. He sought the cooperation of the community to enable him to perform his duties to the satisfaction of all concerned. Katherine Thorat, Assistant Manager proposed a vote of thanks with a special mention of C.G. Chavan, M. Kulkarni, professional members of the community, media and valued agents of Air India, to name but a few. The function ended after a dinner.

Indians participating in Skokie July 4th Parade Usha Kamaria

SKOKIE: Scores of members of the Indian community in and around Skokie village actively participate in American Independence Day Parade on July 4, organized in Skokie. In spite of scorching heat with the temperature running at 100 degree F , there was a huge crowd

lining up both sides of the street and side ways reflective of huge patriotic fervor and enthusiasm. Members of the Indian community decorated two mini vans so that people, who get tired walking during the parade, could take a break and sit in the minivans. DJ Chawala entertained the crowd with Bollywood stuff. People were seen dancing on the

sidewalks when the Indian floats passed through and cheered the marchers in the Parade. More than 86 floats participated in the Parade. Students of Kapapadma took active part along with different community members. After the Parade there was a delicious lunch ready at Kamaria's residence for all those who participated in the Parade.

Community Across America

18 India Post

July 20, 2012

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Chicago & Atlanta Spelling Bee winners announced India Post News Service

CHICAGO: The 2012 MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee continued its 11 city tour with two events in the Chicago & Atlanta areas. With a huge turnout this year as well, the bee attracted some top talent as well as young and new spellers that competed for the coveted prizes and titles. "It is very heartening to see that each year we get fresh faces and new talent which is a continuing testimony to our community's strength in this craft," said Rahul Walia, Founder - South Asian Spelling Bee. In Chicago, Sai Allu from Ballwin, MO was the regional champ and Roshni Asirvatham from Rochester, MN was the first runner up while Gokul Venkatachalam from Chesterfield, MO was second runner up. "All of the children who participated in this year's Spelling Bee demonstrated extraordinary language skills. Congratulations to

Atlanta winners

the top spellers and all the families who took part, said Mahesh Desai, senior financial services executive, MetLife Financial Group of Houston. In Atlanta, Sumedh Garimella from Duluth, GA was the regional champ and Sadhana Durbha from Suwanee, GA was first runner up while Prutha Patel from Fayetteville, NC was second runner up. "Every family should be proud of the children who participated

Asian Americans' cross-cultural roots key asset GRAVE NIWA

BOSTON: Close on the heels of a new report showing that Asian Americans are the largest wave of new immigrants to the United States and the fastest growing racial group in the country, a new video entitled "Invest in Asian America" highlights the global characteristics of Asian Americans. Sponsored by Wells Fargo & Company, the video calls out Asian American economic contributions to the global economy in the United States and in Asia. It points to the use of new technology among Asians and economic exchange as ways that Asian Americans can play a key role in the development of global organizations and cross-border relations. The video also encourages multinational companies to invest in the development of the Asian Americans in the workforce. The fast-paced, two-minute video uses motion typography to showcase the transnational nature of Asian Americans with these points: • Largest group of immigrants coming to the U.S. • 33% send money back home • 59% of all Asian Americans have family residing in their country of origin • 60% of Asian Americans travel back and forth to Asia frequently • Asian American community's embrace of social networking technology (internet is link to ethnic homeland) • Asian American entrepreneurs - the most likely group to start a business • Asian American contributions to the U.S. economy (top leaders at Yahoo! Four Square, Google and others)

Chicago winners

“It was great to see such talented children and to share information with the parents about how they can plan ahead for the costs of college"

in the event. It was great to see such talented children and to share information with the parents about how they can plan ahead for the costs of college," said Dibyendu De, Ph.D., financial services representative, MetLife Financial Group. The winners received cash prizes of $500, $300 and $200 respectively. Children up to 14 years of age are eligible to participate and the

contest saw spellers of even 6 years of age compete and make it past a few rounds. There are 9 more cities on the anvil and for more information and to register your child, please visit www.SouthAsianSpellingBee.com. The top two winners plus one parent each from every city will be given an all expenses paid trip to NJ on August 17 for the finals. The contest will be telecast globally on Sony Entertainment Television-ASIA.

Guru Purnima & Sai Mandir anniversary celebrated S SURUBOTLA

CHICAGO: Hundreds of devotees gathered at the 'Paschima Shirdi' - an abode of devotion for Sai Bhaktas - for the auspicious Guru Purnima celebrations at Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir Chicago in Aurora, Illinois. This was also the Shastama Varshikotsav - sixth anniversary of the Mandir Maha Kumbhabhishekam. The celebrations began on Sunday, July 1 and culminated on Tuesday July 3, the Guru Purnima day. The celebrations began on July 1 with Sri Sai Sahasra Naama Archana. On July 2, Shankha Mandala was arranged. On the Guru Purnima day, rituals began with Alaya pradaskhina and Punah pravesham amidst Veda Ghosha, Nadaswaram and Sri Sai Naam Jap. After the Kakada Aarati, propitiating Lord Ganesh, Kalasa, Shankha and Deepa puja were performed. This was followed by Sri Datta Havan. Havan is a Vedic way of invoking the divine cosmic energy for the welfare of the humanity. After the Abhishek and Archana, the session ended with Madhyahna Aarati and Annadaana to all the devotees. Evening session began with the parayana of Sri Guru Charitra. This details the greatness of Guru and the ways to serve Him. Baba prescribed reading of this book to many devotees. After Dhup Aarati, Samoohika Shankha Abhishek was performed. Shankha is one of the aspects of wealth from Lord Kubera. Worshipping Shankha gives prosperity. It is auspicious to blow Shankha during the rituals. Many gods and goddesses such as Lord Dattatreya, Maha Lakshmi, and Vishnu carry Shankha in their hands. All the devotees participating in the Samoohika Shankha abhishek got the rare opportunity to go up on the altar and do Abhishek to Baba themselves along with their family members. This was followed by Archana.

Sai Baba chariot on Guru Purnima

Sai Baba idol done up for Guru Purnima

This was followed by Rathotsav. Ratha is a mobile temple. According to Upanishad, "Rathe Twaam Gamana Drishtva Punarjanma na Vidyate" meaning whoever sees Ratha in motion, has no rebirth. Lord Sainath was taken in a grand and colorful procession in a majestic 15 feet Ratha (chariot). Devotees accompanied the ratha singing bhajans and dancing. The day's session ended with Shej arati and Annadaana. Guru Purnima is the only festival prescribed by Baba for celebrations. In 1908, one day, Baba suddenly called a devotee named Noolkar and told him to worship the Pillar at Dwarakamai. Noolkar first wondered and later checked the almanac and found it

to be the Vyasa Purnima or Guru Purnima day. He immediately worshipped Baba accompanied by Kelkar, Shama and other devotees. All the major festivals are celebrated at the mandir, just as in Shirdi. Shri Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir in Aurora is open from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on all week days and throughout the day on Thursdays, weekends and special occasions. All the four Aaratis - Kakad Aarati, Madhyahna Aarati, Dhup Aarati and Shej Aarati - are performed just as in Shirdi. Special worship services including Abhishek, Sri Sai Astotra, Sri Vishnu Sahasra Nama, and Sri Sai Satchartira Parayan are conducted on Thursdays.

July 20, 2012

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Healthy lifestyle study by MAFS, Ald Pawar helps North Side Summerfest NW University SURENDRA ULLAL

HIMALI BHARUCHA

CHICAGO: Metropolitan Asian Family Services (MAFS) has joined hands with Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine to conduct a new Healthy Lifestyle study with main thrust on prevention of heart disease. The near two years study commencing August this year is primarily focused on South Asians population in as much as this segment of the community is believed to have a relative high incidence of heart problems. The study commencing is funded by US National Institute of Health. Dr. Namratha Kandula and her team from Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, conducted an informative healthy lifestyle workshop at Metropolitan Asian Family Services (MAFS) on June 20. The goal of the study is to teach the Indian and Pakistani community about how to reduce their chances of a heart attack through a healthy lifestyle. Twenty-one MAFS staff members from all locations attended this interesting, interactive work-

Dr Kondula (extreme right) with MAFS Executive Director Ms. Santosh Kumar and MAFS team

physical activity. It is recommended that all adults get at least 30 minutes or moderate-intensity physical activity on most days of the week. Examples of moderateintensity activity include brisk walking, cycling, or dancing. There are countless ways to enjoy physical activity: • Instead of watching television after dinner, go for a walk; • Play tag, swim, toss a ball, jump rope, and dance to your favorite music; • Race with your kids. When is the last time you ran fast for 20-30 seconds? • Take the stairs whenever you

Dr Namratha Kondula conducting healthy life style workshop at Chicago MAFS location

shop on heart disease prevention. The staff learned new ways to incorporate healthy living in their daily lives. Group activities were used to teach people how to make healthier eating choices, read nutrition labels, and get more exercise. Staff members were also certified on how to conduct blood pressure, weight, and body mass index measurements. It is observed and is backed up by some studies too that South Asians are less physically active than many other groups. The sedentary lifestyle of South Asians may be contributing to their higher rates of diabetes and heart disease. It is important for the South Asian community to think of ways to become more physically active and to also encourage children to be more active. In a talk to this paper, Dr Kondula said that regular physical activity has physical, mental, and emotional benefits. All people, men and women, children, older adults, need to get regular

can. • Celebrate special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries with something active, such as a hike or playing a game at the park. • Get the whole family involved in household chores like vacuuming and yard work. • Walk instead of drive whenever you can. If you have to drive, find a spot at the far end of the parking lot and walk to where you're going. • Get off the bus a stop earlier than usual and walk the rest of the way • Limit the amount of time at home that you and your family spend in front of a computer or television. No more than 1-2 hours a day. • When you are watching television, get up and move during commercial breaks. • When you are at work, make sure to get up every 30 minutes and stand or go get some water. Dr Kondula observed that "many people say that they do not

have the time to do any exercise. But the truth is that these people do not make the time for exercise. We need to set the right example for our communities by making physical activity a priority in our own lives." The lifestyle study with the thrust on preventing heart disease will be conducted at MAFS locations and there with be three to four groups. Each group will be required to attend six classes. The study would be revealing in more than one way as it would have a peek at the reasons for prevalence of cardiovascular disease among South Asians and it will be enlightening for the groups participating in the studies. Namratha Kandula, MD, MPH who is in charge of the two year study, is Assistant Professor of Medicine at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine. She is a general internist with advanced training in epidemiology, public health, and health services research. Dr. Kandula is an expert in Asian American health, cross-cultural communication, and health promotion for minority communities. She currently directs an ongoing research program to develop, implement, and evaluate literacy and culturally appropriate behavioral interventions targeted at cardiovascular risk reduction in minority populations. She is a recipient of a Mentored Patient-Oriented Research Career Development Award (K23) from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and the Site-PI of the NHLBI-funded MASALA study, the first prospective cohort study examining the mediators of atherosclerosis in South Asian Americans. She serves as a National Advisory Committee Member for the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's Local Funding Partnerships program and is a graduate of the Community Leadership Program run by the Leadership Center for Asian Pacific Americans. Those interested in participating in this research study please contact 773 475 3105.

Ald Ameya Pawar

CHICAGO: The North Center Chamber of Commerce has announced hosting its second annual summer fest from August 17 to 19 on Lincoln Avenue from Irving Park Road to Bernice in Chicago. To attract more Fest participants, the Center has decided the addition of Friday night this time. The updated festival schedule of the Fest is Friday, August 17 5:00 10:00 pm; Saturday, August 18 Noon - 10:00 pm; Sunday, August 19 Noon - 10:00 pm. The first ever elected India born Alderman Amaya Pawar took active part in helping the Center to organize the event. The North Center, acknowledging the support from the Alderman, said in a statement that it thanked "7th Ward Alderman Pawar for his support on the extension of the event." It also thanked the residents and businesses that were part of the public meeting process to discuss the Friday night addition. "In 2011, neighborhood organizations raised nearly $2,000 for their groups when they volun-

teered at the event," said Executive Director Garrett Fitzgerald. "We look forward to expanding the opportunities to additional groups this year." The North Center Chamber of Commerce is a business and community development organization

The first ever elected India born Alderman Amaya Pawar took active part in helping the Center to organize the event. The North Center, acknowledged the support from the Alderman on Chicago's near north side. Surrounding the intersection of Lincoln, Damen and Irving Park, it is a vibrant community with great restaurants, rocking bars, and a walkability score that's almost off the charts.

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July 20, 2012

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Sai Baba temple holds Sai Sandhya India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Sai Sandhya, the half-day event sponsored by the Shirdi Sai Baba temple on Robinson Street in the Flushing section of Queens, has concluded successfully with the participation of nearly 300 spectators who applauded the twin-program event. The event comprised "Sarvam Sai Mayam" (Everything is enveloped by Sai), a Kuchipudi ballet by noted danseuse Padma Shri Dr Sobha Naidu, and bhajans/devotional songs by awards-winning singer Dr Radhika Chopra. The event was conducted mainly by volunteers and other devotees of the temple to raise funds for the house of worship, considered the first of its kind in the United States. Temple trustees, Consulate General of India officials, community leaders and other prominent people were present at the event held at a high school auditorium in Queens, New York City. Temple trustee Shiva Haran welcomed the gathering, which was eagerly waiting for the event to unfold. In his brief remarks, Haran described the volunteers and devotees as an "amazing source of strength" to the temple. He particularly praised volunteers for conceiving the event, staging the twin programs. V. Perumal, who is deputy consul general for cultural affairs, de-

scribed Sai Baba as one of the most revered saints of India. He pointed out that many devotees believe him as an incarnation of god. Consul General Prabhu Dayal was to be the chief guest at the event, but he could not make it as he was away in Washington in connection with official work.

artists were honoured with shawls and praised for making it a success. The event began around noon with lunch and throughout the proceedings snacks and tea were made available. The first program began shortly before 2 p.m. and there was a break around 4 p.m. before the second program of

Dr Radhika Chopra enthralled the audience with her bhajans and devotional songs.

Speaking on behalf of the volunteers and devotees, Rao said the entire credit to the success was due to all the people who participated in the much-awaited event. He also shared the laurels with his fellow volunteer core committee members, who had made untiring efforts over the past several weeks. Earlier he said, "We are excited about the whole event and I see enthusiasm among not only the core organizing committee but Sai devotees at large." All the dignitaries and the main

songs and bhajans started. There were several highlights in the first part. Among those that drew wide applause were - a kabaddi game played by a blindfolded Sai (Ms. Sobha Naidu) and his followers; a gathering of elephant, deer, bull and peacock with Sai and his followers (suggesting that animals have souls and they should be treated on a par with humans); Sai suffering when others are subjected to beatings; his passing away and getting back to his life in three days (a technologi-

Sikhs gear up for Olympics Langgar 2012

cal display here) and Sai entering 'mahaasamadhi.' For Hyderabad-based Ms. Naidu, the event was the first during her current US tour. Though the veteran dancer came from India, other artists were mostly young and are from the Kuchipudi Dance Academy, Germantown,

comes to know that Sai gave back life to his dead fellow student. Sai later performs miracles such as lighting lamps with water, relocating a lost horse and curing various ailments. There is a comparison with Lord Krishna as the background song says "Dwaraka Maareraa

"Sarvam Sai Mayam" a Kuchipudi ballet by noted danseuse Dr Sobha Naidu and her students.

Maryland. Lakshmi Babu, who heads the school and her team turned out an excellent performance. Ms. Babu herself is a student-disciple of Ms. Naidu. The entire ballet was in Telugu, but before each of the 10 scenes began, an explanation in English was given. A booklet explaining scene-by-scene descriptions was distributed among the multilingual audience. The ballet begins with a scene 'bala baba' studying under his guru Venkusa who advises him to find his own way in life after he

Dwarakamayi (Dwaraka changes into Dwarakamayi)" while Baba is shown with Krishna back-to-back. Ms. Naidu enacted the role of Baba with ease in different scenes. She excelled as Baba aged. In her brief remarks to the keenly waiting audience, Ms. Naidu said, "It is always a wonderful feeling whenever I play Baba. It is an incredible experience." The entire team, particularly Ms. Naidu, got a standing ovation from the audience. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 23

Rutgers welcomes new books on Sikhs India Post News Service

Executive Chef Gurpreet Singh (in stripes) showing Sevadar how to make Roti Rolls India Post News Service

LONDON: On 21st July, eyes of the global community will be on Fauja Singh, the 101 year-old marathon runner, the oldest torch bearer at London 2012, who will be carrying the Torch on the 64th day of the Olympics Torch Relay, when it reaches Newham, where the Olympic Stadium is located. To celebrate the wonderful achievements of this under-spoken treasure of the Sikh community, United Sikhs, a UN affiliated international advocacy, humanitarian relief and human development char-

Bhai Fauja Singh attends Langgar 2012 briefing

ity, alongside Gurdwaras and Sikhs from the UK and around the world will be participating in a celebration

A core premise of Sikhism is "seva" selfless service. This will be demonstrated through Langgar 2012 of Sikhs embracing diversity. A core premise of Sikhism is "seva" selfless service. This will

be demonstrated through Langgar 2012 where thousands will be served of free vegetarian meals along the 30-mile Olympics Torch Relay Route on July 21. Paul Uppal, MP for Wolverhampton South West, who has been backing the project since its inception, remarks, "I am happy to be a part of this fantastic event as it embodies everything that I believe in as a Sikh and as a Conservative promoting the Big Society. I am looking forward to seeing Gurdwaras from all over the country come together to serve others in the name of faith and community."

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ: The Rutgers University Library received many new books from United Sikhs on various topics and issues related to academics and research. The United Sikhs recommended list of Sikh books offers a great variety of crucial topics for those studying Sikhs. The books not only share Sikh ideals but show a larger context to reflect the ever increasingly multicultural world we live in. The "recommended titles" offers the Sikh perspective in a structured manner, starting from "religion and theology" as understanding theology first is crucial to understanding Sikh history. Rutgers University has shelved the books in the reading room for readers. The set of books also includes books on Sikh history and other crucial topics such as Sikhs in the Diaspora, Sikh Culture & Heritage, Human Rights issues faced by the Sikhs, Dictionaries and Encyclo-

pedia for Sikh Studies, Writings on Sikh scriptural texts, and even Fiction by Sikh writers. The list included accomplished authors, intellectuals, theologians, human rights activists, and historians such as Professor Puran Singh, Sirdar Kapur Singh, Daljeet Singh, Harbans Singh, Patwant Singh, Cynthia Keppley Mahmood, Dr. Trilochan Singh, and Bhai Vir Singh, to name a few. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 23

Community Across America

July 20, 2012

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Natyanjali Trust to work with US-based dancers PRAKASH M SWAMY

NEW YORK: The Natyanjali Trust, which organizes India's largest annual classical dance festival at Lord Shiva temple in Chidambaram in Tamil Nadu, is planning to have tie in with USbased dance gurus and dancers to help them perform at the festival and pay homage to the lord of the dance. A. Sambandam, Secretary of Natyanjali Trust and an attorney in the temple town of Chidambaram said the five-day festival that attracts over 700 dancers - both senior and junior - from all over the world is considered the biggest festival of its kind in the world. It starts on the auspicious Maha Shivratri Day each year. Dancers from every single genre Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Odissi, Yakshagnanam, Mohiniyattam, Kathak and other classical and folk styles come to the holy city to perform either solo, group or ballet to perform at the feet of Lord Nataraja as a dance tribute. "Dancers from all over the world consider it sacred to perform before the Lord of Dance and we want more engagement with USbased dancers and students," he said. Participation and response have acquired international dimension. He said there were requests

from US-based dancers, teachers and students to help them perform at the festival and the Trust is planning to set up a coordinating office in the US, especially in the East Coast, to facilitate their par-

"Dancers from all over the world consider it sacred to perform before the Lord of Dance and we want more engagement with USbased dancers and students" Sambandam

ticipation. The invited performers are provided transport, accommodation and food and no money is collected from them. The dancers start performing one by one at 6 pm on the Maha Shivratri day and go on till the next morning as part of the tradition. The five-day festival is being witnessed by over 10,000 people and the next festival starts on March 10, 2013 at Chidambaram, he said. It goes by the lunar calendar and commences on Maha Shivratri day each since its humble beginning in 1981. Today it's patronized by the Government of India's Sangeet Natak Academy, South Zone Cultural Center, State Governments,

Guru Purnima at St Louis temple ASHWIN PATEL

ST LOUIS: The Hindu Temple of St. Louis celebrated Guru Purnima on Tuesday July 3 with enthusiasm and dignified ritual. Special poojas were arranged for Dattatreya and Guru Dakshinamurthy. A number of devotees attended and worshipped for guru's blessings. The 15th temple anniversary day was

Annamalai University and philanthropists. It has come on the global dance map and the organizers start receiving applications in March for the following year and permission is given after a careful

celebrated on July 6 with Srinivasa Kalyanam. Couples participated in the divine kalyanam rituals. Prasadam was distributed at the end of the kalyanam. Varalakshmi Vratham will be celebrated on July 27. Samuhika Lakshmi pooja will be arranged for members and devotees of the temple.

scrutiny of their experience and style, Sambandam said. Dancers come from as far as from Nepal, Singapore, Malaysia,

China, Fiji, the US and the UK. A forty-foot huge stage is erected on the outer corridor of the magnificent temple near the sanctum sanctorum. The ancient Shiva temple in which Lord Shiva exists in a dancing form and the Sanctum represent that Shiva exists in the form of "sky" which is one of the five elements. Chidambaram was a Chola capital from 907AD - 1310AD and the Nataraja temple was erected during the latter part of the administration. The temple complex has four large gopurams. The presiding deity is Shiva in his aspect of as the cosmic dancer and the magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Shiva was built a thousand years ago and provides a beautiful backdrop for the event. The setting is truly divine - the gold-roofed temple, with pillars depicting Lord Nataraja in 108 poses from Bharatanatyam - Tamil Nadu's classical dance. With a view to reviving and

consolidating the tradition, a concerted effort was made in 1981 in the form of annual event with the cooperation of Podhu Deekshithars - the hereditary custodians of the temple. Over the years Natyanjalii has grown in status developing into national festival presenting many styles of Indian classical dance, he added. Sambandam said the holy shrine of Nataraja at Chidambaram is full of esoteric and spiritual significance. The Ananda Tnadava of the Lord depicted protection, transformation, containment and grace. The icon representing this manifestation of Shiva has been universally praised for its exquisite beauty and aesthetic nuances. It is this figure that has been a perennial inspiration for the art of dance. Calai Chandra, a New Yorkbased Bharatanatyam dancer, who performed last year at Chidambaram dance festival, described her experience as celestial and soulful.

Desi teacher chosen for Honeywell program PRAKASH M SWAMY

NEW YORK: Dharamvir Gehlaut, a math teacher of Long Island City High School, Queens, New York was among the 185 teachers chosen for the 2012 Honeywell Educators @ Space Academy program at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC) in Huntsville, Alabama. The professional development program held between June 22 and 28 was designed to help middle school math and science educators become more effective science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) teachers. The teachers came from across the US and around the world especially for the program held in Huntsville, Alabama at Honeywell Educators @ Space Academy. The academy, which the teachers won scholarships to attend, is held through a partnership between the Space & Rocket Center and Honeywell International. Teachers from as close as Hackleburg and as far away as Africa took part in 45 hours of intensive classroom work, labs and training - including simulated astronaut training - focused on space exploration. Dharmvir Gehlaut, a math teacher who hails from Delhi said the program is unlike anything he's ever experienced. "It is an awesome opportunity for all of the teachers from around the globe. The education and training provided at the

academy is not something that teachers in India could ever hope to receive," Gehlaut said. The Honeywell Educators @ Space Academy program was launched in 2004, said Sophie Yem, a spokeswoman for Honeywell. According to the program's website, it has since graduated more than 1,650 educators from 45 countries and 50 states.

throughout the world teaching our children," Brooks said. Gehlaut, a former newspaper reporter in India and New York, spent a few minutes talking politics with Brooks. Honeywell Educators @ Space Academy is a professional development program designed for teachers to learn new and innovative techniques to educate their students about science and math. This sum-

Dharamvir Gehlaut with Congressman Mo Brooks at Honeywell Educators @ Space Academy

The chosen class of teachers also had the opportunity to meet Congressman Mo Brooks, who was at the Space & Rocket Center to visit with them and 60 science teachers from across Alabama. Brooks told the Honeywell group that he understands the challenges of their vocation. His mother was a teacher, as are his wife and daughters. "We very much appreciate your work

mer, approximately 200 teachers will participate to become the program's class of 2012, which will then be part of an impressive network of more than 1,650 graduates from 45 countries and 50 states. All costs associated with travel, tuition, room and board is sponsored by Honeywell Hometown Solutions, the company's corporate citizenship initiative, and the contributions of its employees.

Community Across America

22 India Post

July 20, 2012

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Interfaith conference by Kriya Vedanta

Swami Atmavidyananda Giri, Ms. Mazher Ahmed, Deepak Jain Asian Media USA

CHICAGO: 'Kriya Vendanta Gurukulam-Temple of Harmony', a nonprofit organization located in Joliet, a Chicago southwest suburb, organized its 2nd Annual Interfaith Conference on Saturday, June 30 at Vedanta campus grounds and its tranquil chapel. The temple is dedicated to spiritual growth and service to humanity. The event attracted over 115 citizens from various local and neighboring communities. The theme of this year dialogue was "Sustaining Our Faith In Everyday Life." This unique concept of interfaith dialogue is the inspiration from the current beloved spiritual leader of Kriya Yoga International, Paramahamsa Prajnanananda, who couldn't attend in person but under his guidance various panelist were invited to participate and encourage keen spiritual curiosity in a peaceful abode. Center stage at this event was an extraordinary panel of eight spiritual and religious leaders from diverse faiths - Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and

Sikhism. The event was kicked-off by standing oblation of universal prayer. The panel was eloquently introduced to the audience and elegantly moderated by Swami Atmavidyananda Giri, the Director of Kriya Vedanta Gurukulam, who also introduced and explained Kriya Yoga during Q&A. "Modern life has become more

Dr. Boonshoo Sriburin, Dr Amarjit Singh, Rev. Emmy Lou Belcher

token, technology and the explosion of social networking has brought the world closer than ever, along with a great need for cultural understanding," explained Swami Atmavidyananda Giri. Ms. Mazher Ahmed, Vice President of the Batavia Islamic Center, spoke passionately about the shared principles of Islam with

Center stage at this event was an extraordinary panel of eight spiritual and religious leaders from diverse faiths - Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism and more fast-paced, stressful, and mechanical. Taking time to explore our own essential nature and values has taken a back seat in daily life due to pressure and emphasis on material achievements and prosperity. We often forget to connect and be guided by our inner faith. By the same

On a related note, Dinesh Jain of Naperville, who teaches at the Chicago Jain Temple, reiterated the need to be self-disciplined to sustain the values of faith. He described some of the little understood practices of Jainism, a minority religion in many parts of the world. Rev. Emmy Lou Belcher of The Unitarian Universalist Church

Audience at Kriya Meet

other religions and the unique and powerful role of women within Islam. Rev. Mark Winters from the First Congregational United Church of Christ, discussed being loyal to one's core religion while being open to understanding and sharing common beliefs with people of all faiths.

highlighted the need for communities to be spiritually vigilant. Dr. Amarjit Singh, a recipient of India's Padma Bhushan, spoke of simplicity and clarity in one's own spiritual practice. The concept of meditation being a central aspect of spiritual growth was discussed by multiple panelists - Dr.

Ramya excels in expression & footwork India Post News Service

NEW YORK: To an attentive audience in the Alvin Ailey Citigroup Theater in midtown Manhattan, Ramya Ramnarayan recently presented five solo dance pieces that displayed a wide range of classical Bharatanatyam themes. Ramya Ramnarayan, a celebrated Bharatanatyam performer, choreographer, and educator, runs the Nrithyanjali Institute of Dance, with studios in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The dancer began the evening with a kauthuvam, a devotional hymn in praise of Lord Natesa or Nataraja, the Lord of Dance. It is a song traditionally performed when a deity, after having been taken through the streets in procession, is brought back into the temple. In choreographing this piece, Ramya beautifully laced few verses from the Patanjali slokam and described the effect of the cosmic dance on all creation. The dance was a vivacious invocation with a chiseled grace. Poses of Nataraja evoked the majesty and energy of the Cosmic Dancer. She followed with a varnam composed by the Tanjore Quartet in the raga Kamas, expressing the feelings of a woman who

Ramya Ramnarayan

urges her friend to carry a message of longing to her beloved, Sundaresa of Madurai. Her poses twirls and leaps rubbed shoulders with adavus in the framework of the jatis. A sudden flurry of foot work would cap a long stretch of slower paced movements. It was remarkable to note that Ramya

invested the same energy in her abhinaya as in her nritta. The dancer used her eyes expressively and appropriately. The Varnam was a piece de resistance. Following this was a short padam, Yashoda lulls her baby Krishna to sleep by telling him the story of Lord Rama going in search of the golden deer, and of Sita carried off in his absence. Hearing this, Krishna suddenly cries out, "O brother, give me my bow," at that moment his mother realizes his divinity. Ramya elegantly portrays the undeterred devotion and love Yashoda had toward Krishna in a flawless manner. In a piquant javali composed by Swati Tirunal Rama Varma, a very young girl expresses her impatience to Lord Padmanabha. She assures him that she will unite with him when the suitable time arrives, but he must wait till then. While the audience was still mulling over that extraordinary weaving of modesty and flirtation, the performer launched into the Pancha Pravah, an exuberant exposition of pure dance composed by Dr. Mangalampalli Balamurali Krishna set in five ragas and five variegated rhythmic patterns.

Boonshoo Sriburin of the Vispassana Meditation Center of Chicago, Swami Vedantananda of the Bharat Sevashram Sangh of Chicago, and by host and moderator Swami Atmavidyananda Giri of Kriya Yoga International. The conference concluded with Swami Atmavidyananda reciting the universal prayer "Sarve Bhavantu Sukhina." A vegetarian dinner was prepared and served by many volunteers. This annual event was offered free and open invitation to all people. Kriya Vedanta Gurukulam teaches Kriya Yoga as taught by lineage of masters from Mahavatar Babaji, Shri Lahiri Mahasaya to Paramahamsa Hariharananda and Paramahamsa Prajnanananda to sincere seekers. Kriya Vedanta Gurukulam - Temple of Harmony, is located at 3400 Earl Drive, Joliet, IL 60431 and welcomes spiritual seekers from all faiths to this nonsectarian place for yoga, meditation, retreat, contemplation, spiritual study, interfaith activities, and selfless community service for their personal growth and spiritual practice in daily life.

Fund set up to help tragedy-hit family India Post News Service

FRANKLIN PARK, NJ: On June 22, tragedy befell a young family from Franklin Park, NJ. Kanubhai Bhagat (34), was driving his parents, wife and two young children to West Virginia to attend the funeral of a relative. Apparently he fell asleep for a moment and his car hit a sign post pole. He and his mother, Pushpabahen (54), who was sitting in the front Kanu Bhagat passenger seat, died on the spot. His father had severe injuries and is scheduled for knee and thigh surgeries. His wife and daughter had minor injuries but his young son is still in coma with internal injuries. New Jersey Softball Cricket League (NJSBCL) has set up a fund to help the family. Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA) has appealed for generous contributions to this worthy cause. To make a contribution go to: <http://njsbcl.com/index.aspx>; or VHPA's web site, <www.vhp-america.org>.

Community/California

July 20, 2012

India Post 23

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CAIR holds 'Summer Night for Civil Rights'

India Post News Service

ANAHEIM, CA: "A Summer Night for Civil Rights," held by the Greater Los Angeles Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations on June 23 to celebrate civil liberties achievements and uplift the Southern California Muslim community, was a success. Close to 500 people turned out for an evening of comedy, hiphop and spoken word. Comedian Dean Obeidallah kept the crowds laughing with his takes on different Muslim countries' customs and rituals, the cross-generational understanding of comedy among Muslims, and daily life experiences of Muslim Americans. Hip-hop artist Omar Offendum engaged the audience by encouraging them to sing along to his songs, "Damascus," and "Street Called Straight." Offendum

ended his segment with his new single "#SYRIA," getting the crowd out of their seats and singing with his calls for peace and freedom.

pacting the Muslim community. Sulaiman also performed selections from his new album, "Meccan Openings," with a live three-piece band.

"'A Summer Night for Civil Rights' is a unique opportunity for American Muslims to reaffirm their commitment to upholding the civil rights of all Americans” Amir Sulaiman entertained audiences with spoken word on the importance of holding on to faith and social issues im-

A special favorite of the crowd were local stand-up comedian Sammy Obeid and the young spoken word talents perform-

ing as part of the "Community Showcase" - Suraya Mahumed and Hamza Siddiqui. The event was emceed by Zahra Billoo, executive director of CAIR-San Francisco Bay Area. CAIR-LA Executive Director Hussam Ayloush gave a short update on various CAIR-LA projects. "'A Summer Night for Civil Rights' is a unique opportunity for American Muslims to reaffirm their commitment to upholding the civil rights of all Americans through a fun, lively evening filled with uplifting entertainment," said Ayloush in a statement. Ayloush also unveiled a new campaign, "Champions of Justice" at the event. The goal of the campaign is to sustain CAIR's daily work by building a permanent base of monthly donors who can automatically donate. Fifty people became Champions of Justice at "A Summer Night for Civil Rights."

Rutgers welcomes new books on Sikhs Gill endorsed by Federation Cont’d from page 20

"It was great to see many new renowned books at the Rutgers Library by the same authors who are included in the United Sikhs book list. I hope that more books would be placed on the shelves by United Sikhs which would offer the Sikh perspective within the academic field," said Amitoj Singh, a recent Rutgers University graduate. As the "Interim Associate University Librarian for Collection Development and Management" or Head Librarian at the Rutgers University Libraries, Dr. Thomas M. Izbicki was very thankful for the books and immediately included them in the Rutgers University Library Catalog, after approving.

"This will improve our representation of the Sikh community in the library collection," said Dr. Izbicki on receiving the books. As an academic library, the main library on the College Avenue Campus at Rutgers known as the "Alexander Library" allows students to do their own research as a supplement to courses taken. With courses on various religions offered at Rutgers University, the Sikh religion or classes on "Sikhism" still have a long way to go before they are taught at Universities across the country. Dr. Satbir Kaur, an active member of the Sikh community in New Jersey applauded the initiative and hopes this marks the beginning of a great partnership between United Sikhs and the

Rutgers University library in building a rich and diverse representation of the Sikh community in the library collection. Rashmeen Kaur, of the Rutgers University Sikh Student Association commented on the project saying, "The placement of these books will help provide access to an accurate set of books on Sikhism and will help bring awareness among Sikh and non-Sikh students at Rutgers University. This endeavor is an initial step in incorporating Sikh literature and I hope that more such books will be added to the library collection." This project would hopefully encourage other such steps to be taken at other universities and academic libraries throughout the country.

Sai Baba temple holds Sai Sandhya Cont’d from page 20

The second part was that of Dr Chopra and her two-member tablaharmonium team. The highlight of this awards-winning performer was a bhajan 'Om Sai Namo Namaha … ' which was sung as most of the audience joined her in unison. There were other bhajans and devotional songs. On audience's request she also sang old Hindi

film songs. Among the classics she sang were those of Noorjehan, the great singer who migrated to Pakistan after the Partition of the subcontinent. Dr Chopra, a widely popular and accomplished singer, is not only known in India but also in such countries as the UK and Pakistan as well as in other parts of Asia. She enthralled the audiences in those regions with her melodious voice and soul-stirring bhajans

and devotional songs. Dr Chopra sings with equal ease in Hindi and Urdu. Narasimha Rao proposed a vote of thanks and expressed gratitude to the participants, particularly the key players and news-media representatives. The present premise of the house of worship, which has been functioning since the mid1990s, was rebuilt in 2004. Formal inauguration of new premises took place in April 2010.

of Independent Business

India Post News Service

LODI, CA: The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has endorsed local candidate Ricky Gill (R-Lodi) in his bid to unseat three-term incumbent Congressman Jerry McNerney (DPleasanton). The mission of the NFIB, an association of small and independent businesses, is to promote and protect its members' rights to own, operate, and grow their enterprises. "We are pleased to endorse Ricky Gill for U.S. Congress, and we look forward to working with him to address the concerns of small business owners in the 9th District and across California,"

said John Kabateck, Executive Director of NFIB/California. "Ricky understands that small businesses are the engine of economic growth in this country, and we know he will stand with job creators on the key issues of health care, regulations and balanced budgets." "We must help small businesses succeed if we hope to reduce the crippling unemployment rate here in the 9th District," said Gill, whose family small business includes growing winegrapes and cherries and operating an RV resort. "That's why I'm honored to have NFIB's support, and I look forward to promoting policies that will help our local small businesses prosper."

Sydney Chandrasekera in need of blood transfusion India Post News Service

HOUSTON, TX: The Houston Buddhist Vihara has announced that their "beloved friend" Sydney Chandrasekera is undergoing medical treatment at the Memorial Hermann Hospital at the Memorial City Medical Center on Gessner/I-10 (921, Gessner Road, Houston, TX 77024). He is urgently in need of blood

for transfusion. The hospital has given him some blood but need donors to continue with the transfusion. Blood of any type can be donated. Please mention that the donation is for the credit of Pathiranage Sydney Chandrasekera at Memorial Hermann at Memorial City. You may contact Wasantha Ekanayake (281-650-3702) or Sunilal Dias (713377-3799) for information.

TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Tum Hi Ho Bandhu: Cocktail 2 Mukhtasar: Teri Meri Kahaani 3 Humse Pyaar Karle Tu: TMK 4 Second Hand Jawani: Cocktail 5 Daru Desi: Cocktail 6 Thats All I Really Wanna Do: 24

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India Post

July 20, 2012

TMK 7 Dhadang Dhang:

nurag Basu's film Barfee! will see the sizzling Ileana D'Cruz exchanging a tender-sweet kiss with Ranbir Kapoor. Unlike Ranbir and Priyanka Chopra, Ileana plays a normal character sans any disability. The chemistry between Ranbir and Ileana is simply superb and has already become the talk of the industry. The actress before the kiss was extremely nervous. While talking to the press at the launch of the Barfee! trailer, the actress revealed, "It wasn't the kiss I was nervous about but the emotions behind it which was the key element of the scene. I think the kiss came out pretty well". As we can see in the trailer, the kissing scene was shot beautifully on a misty winter day. Barfee! is a story about the mute and deaf Murphy who is called Barfee!, a pure charmer, his bitter-sweet relationship with Shruti (Ileana D'cruz) and Jhilmil (Priyanka Chopra) and how his life takes a turn.

Rowdy Rathore 8 Aa Re Pritam Pyaare: Rowdy Rathore 9 Chinta Ta Ta Chita Chita: Rowdy Rathore 10 Jiya Tu Bihar Ke Lala: Gangs Of Wasseypur

She is dating Bunty Sachdeva, sports and celebrity manager, and also brotherin-law of Sohail Khan. Bunty is also said to be handling Sonakshi's endorsements

ot only is she acting with forty plus actors, Sonakshi Sinha is dating an older man too. That's what's making the buzz in the industry. It is heard that the Sinha girl is in a relationship with a divorcee. Well, though the actress has tried

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

It wasn't the kiss I was nervous about but the emotions behind it which was the key element of the scene. I think the kiss came out pretty well

â&#x20AC;?

-Ileana D'Cruz

eepika Padukone's bikini act in Cocktail has created waves in the film industry. The actress says, in India, girls need to put in a little extra effort to carry of a bikini. "I wish it was so easy and natural. I think the Indian body type is somehow not suited for a bikini. We as Indians have to work a little extra hard if we wish to carry it off," So what was Deepika's regime for the bikini shot? She said, "I changed my workout slightly. Basically, I just had to sacrifice going out for dinners every time Dino (pro-

ducer Dinesh Vijan) took the cast out for dinners. I would just sit in my room alone and ate steamed fish and not have any dessert." After the shoot, Deepika Padukone let herself relax. "I remember being so disciplined that the day I finished the bikini shoot and I knew I could start eating normally. He (Vijan) took me out for dinner and I had this big chocolate dessert. Food and desserts, I think the restaurant ran out of food," said Deepika humorously.

Bikini regime

her best to maintain her so called single status in the industry, reports say that she is dating Bunty Sachdeva, sports and celebrity manager, and also brother-in-law of Sohail Khan. Bunty is also said to be handling Sonakshi's endorsements. Bunty Sachdeva dated Sushmita Sen once upon a time. They were together for a long time and made quite a news. Bunty also dated Neha Dhupia for a brief period of time, and is a divorcee now. With her career graph going high, Sonakshi might not make her relationship public.

July 20, 2012

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oha Ali Khan and Kunal Khemu have been dating since three years. The actress recently revealed how difficult it is to have a romantic relationship with a fellow actor. She also admitted to having had a tiff with Kunal over some of his racy scenes in his last release. Speaking about her tiff with Kunal, she says, "We had a fight about a particular scene, when I went to watch Kunal's latest film. I don't think any girlfriend would have been happy seeing that." However, Soha quickly adds, "There is an immature kid in all of us. But I too am an actor. I should be mature or else I should not have been dating another actor."

anbir has a director inside and this director often comes out while he shoots for the movies. He has studied direction from The Lee Strasberg Film Institute in New York prior to stepping inside the filmdom as an assistant director to Sanjay Leela Bhansali in Black (2005). For his ready to hit the screens movie 'Barfee', he showed his directorial skills at the video shoot of the movie recently. Ranbir was to leave for Argentina for the shooting of his film 'Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani' being directed by Ayan Mukherji. But when he got to know that the filmmakers of Barfee decided to shoot a short visual for the promotion of the film over the Internet, he postponed his flight. A digital media was handling this short shoot and Ranbir took the responsibility of a director, creative head and make up man of the video shoot. Since Anurag Basu was not there, Ranbir took the entire responsibility with conviction. Everyone out there got surprised seeing his numerous talents.

FHM magazine has recently named Katrina Kaif the sexiest woman

hat makes Katrina Kaif so sexy? This actress hardly exposes in any of her films, yet she's time and again voted the sexiest woman in the world. FHM magazine has recently named Katrina Kaif the sexiest woman, beating the likes of Deepika Padukone and Priyanka Chopra. This is the fourth time that Kats has been tagged with the title by the magazine. So what's so sexy about the actress? Katrina Kaif is quoted as saying in a report, "The sexiest thing is not trying. Being sexy isn't about clothesâ&#x20AC;Ś For me to wear a cotton sari, sans any make-up and still be desirable is sexy."

India Post 25

KANNIKS KANNIKESWARAN

an you wrap your mind around a 10day convention where delegates from the US, Iran, Israel, Turkey, Zimbabwe, India, China, Russia, Ukraine, Great Britain and many other countries gather together and build a world of friendship? Such a convention is actually happening now in Cincinnati at the 7th World Choir Games, the Olympics of choral music - the largest international choral competition in the world held every two years. Previous games have happened in Austria, China, Germany and South Korea. The Games are

India Post

being held in the United States for the first time in Cincinnati OH. 'The World Choir Games' is the signature event of Interkultur, Germany-based organization that produces choral events all over

www.indiapost.com the city in the process. This is not my first experience with the games. I was one of the 25 singers that represented the 2012 host city Cincinnati - in the 6th world choir games at Shaoxing China.

July 20, 2012 of choral singing into judicious competition before internationally acclaimed jurors in world class venues. Workshops with choral rock stars enrich the educational aspect of the

OLYMPICS OF CHORAL MUSIC IN CINCINNA TI CINCINNATI

the world. Cincinnati is waiting with bated breath for the second half of the games that commence on July 11. The first part of the Games is already on its way, transforming

What I saw at the games in China in July 2010 is etched in my memory. And I see it coming to life again already - with young singers from around the world attired in colorful costumes, working as a team, speaking in a collective voice, creating complex sounds capes sometimes punctuated with momentous pauses and dramatic gestures. All in the spirit of participation and celebrating the joy of singing. More than 360 choirs from 48 countries

games", says Kim Mann, US Artistic Coordinator of Chorus Operations. Jelena Dannhauer, Project Manager, World Choir Games 2012, who has seen the games evolve over the last several years says, "The experience for the singers is life changing. And it certainly reflects Interkultur's motto 'Singing together brings Nations together' There is a tremendous amount of music in Cincinnati. The phrase 'A city that sings'

Jelena Dannhauer, Project Manager, World Choir Games 2012, who has seen the games evolve over the last several years says, "The experience for the singers is life changing. And it certainly reflects Interkultur's motto 'Singing together brings Nations together' have registered to participate. There are roughly 80 regional choirs and choirs representing 25 US states. Dan Lincoln, the Director of the Cincinnati Convention Bureau asserts that the games have brought 'extreme diversity' to Cincinnati. In his words, "the games are a transforming experience. There was not a single person in the packed Aronoff center that was not moved by the performance of a choir of people with special needs". "The event draws those who love the art

rings in consonance with the name Cincinnati. Cincinnati is home to a large number of choirs, the best known of which is the nationally recognized May Festival Choir. It is this 'host choir' and the host 'Cincinnati Pops Orchestra' and the large number of state of the art performance facilities within walking distance of each other that catapulted Cincinnati's bid for the games to the winning position among the many cities that vied with each other to get the games. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 28

July 20, 2012

India Post

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NY Filmmaker Shailja's Walkaway released online India Post News Service

NEW YORK: New York based independent filmmaker Shailja Gupta has launched her maiden film 'Walkaway' online for viewers in India. The Indian American movie is in English. Positioned as a lightcomedy drama, the film mocks the clutches of social obligations on young Indian professionals settled in New York City. The story softly weaves through the lives of four couples from diverse backgrounds, as they face the non-envious dilemmas of living in an international contemporary society, away from home, while still being expected to fulfill archaic and age old Indian tradition and how they deal with it. Set against this backdrop the movie gives us a glimpse of the tangled web we weave when dealing with the affairs of the heart. The relationships and the sometimes typical and sometimes unique individual reactions of the characters in the movie, as they deal with the varied situations, strike a chord with the viewers. New York's best South Asian acting talent - Manu Narayan,

Samrat Chakrabarti and Carrie Anne James in "Walkaway" directed by Shailja Gupta

Samrat Chakrabarty, Manish Dayal, Saniv Jhaveri, Deepti Gupta, Carrie Anne James, Pallavi Sharda, and Ami Sheth have been cast in the soft romantic movie. The film has received positive reviews from international press. This is one of the first ever movie to be released with in-video paywall. The New York Times said "A little Bollywood, a lot Ameri-

Bol Bachchan sets a number of records

India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The comedy adventure Bol Bachchan starring Ajay Devgn and Abhishek Bachchan scored a terrific opening in North America generating the best debut this summer for any Bollywood film. Released by Fox International Productions, Rohit Shetty's comic hit grossed $562,000 in its first three days beating the opening of Akshay Kumar's Rowdy Rathore by a remarkable 47% despite playing in fewer theaters. It also debuted bigger than Teri Meri Kahaani starring Shahid Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra. In

addition, Bol Bachchan more than tripled the opening weekend of the last Rohit Shetty-Ajay Devgn project Singham which released in July of last summer. The Hollywood Reporter remarked that Abhishek Bachchan gives "one of his best performances to date" and that the film is filled with "engaging performances and ever-spiraling hysteria." Bol Bachchan landed in the Top 20 at the North American box office and also scored a huge number one opening in India. It continues to run exclusively in theaters across the U.S. and Canada as well as in numerous countries around the world.

can Indie" about this movie and Newsday said "Filmmaker Shailja Gupta has a sure hand and eye" and Access Bollywood said

"Will resonate with anyone who's ever been in a serious romantic relationship." Over the last two years she has

donned many hats - from conception and fund raising, through production and post-production, to marketing and release. "I have grown as much as a professional with this movie. While the two year journey has not been easy, the whole hearted support of the industry has been very encouraging. My unique method of launching this movie in the country might just inspire more independent film makers; who get tired running after the distributors, to release their movies online as a more viable option to showcase their art." Shailja Gupta said. "Shah Rukh Khan has been a major factor that has helped me realize my dream into reality." Reciprocating on her comment, King Khan said, "It's a lovely movie and is straight from the heart. I would love for all of you to watch it and enjoy it as much as I have enjoyed viewing it." Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 28

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July 20, 2012 www.indiapost.com

Olympics of Choral Music in Cincinnati Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 26

The economic and the sociocultural impact of the games are tremendous. Ticket sales have already exceeded expectations even during this economy as this is an event that no one wants to miss. Indeed, this will be the largest convention that Cincinnati has ever hosted and it will be a significant accomplishment of the Cincinnati Convention and Visitors Bureau. Cultural interactions are happening on an unprecedented scale in Cincinnati as choirs from various countries, clad in their performance attire mingle and make friends with others at Cincinnati's landmark fountain square not minding the torrid summer that is scorching the city. Of the 48 countries participating in the games, the United States has fielded the largest number of choirs. The next largest contingent is from the other side of the world, China with about 55 choirs. Yes, China with its strong and widespread culture of western music is deep into choral singing. There are only three choirs from India (The Shillong Chamber Choir, the Akshayam Choir from Chennai and the Cambridge from Mumbai) while there are about 20 from Indonesia. Latvia, the home of the 2014 World Choir Games is represented by two choirs. Choral music is not as big in India as it is in other countries. The west has been singing in choirs for hundreds of years. Community choirs, church choirs, University and school choirs rehearse every

week and perform on a regular basis. Some of the greatest symphonic works have had a special place for 'arranged voices'. Such 'musical arrangements' are not an integral part of Indian culture. Indian music is about individual self expression while western music relies a lot on 'musical (pre) arrangements'. This fundamental difference in approach to music could explain the lack of a choral effort in traditional Indian music. I clearly remember a discussion the Indian music theory class that I teach at the University of Cincinnati when a graduate student from Korea had this comment. "You in India Indianized the western instruments (such as the violin) that you encountered and adapted them to play Indian music. We in Korea (and China and other places) learned western music and made it an integral component of our musical culture". This is a very insightful comment.

While you see formal conservatories of western music and well established symphony orchestras in the Far East, you don't see (widespread) formal western music education in India. Even Singapore has a highly acclaimed conservatory of music (National University of Singapore) and the

Games in China and also went on to win 'India's got talent' in 2010. The Calcutta Youth Choir that was founded by Ruma Guha Thakurta in 1958 and the Madras Youth choir founded by M. B. Srinivasan in 1971 are exemplary choirs that have delighted audiences through their performances on All India

The Greater Cincinnati Indian Community choir is competing in the 7th World Choir Games and will be presenting a repertoire based on ragas and ancient Sanskrit text NUS choir gives sold out performances each year. Choral music is a relatively new entrant to the artistic landscape in India. There are church choirs that sing Christian sacred music. The Shillong Chamber Choir founded in 2001 has a repertoire that spans Western Classical, Rock and Popular music. This group won awards at the 6th World Choir

Radio and Doordarshan. I have always been fascinated by the paradigm of music arranged for multiple parts, by the power of the collective whole - something that is not part of the Indian Art music fabric. Of course, I am delightfully overwhelmed by the magic of the Indian system of ragas not seen anywhere else in the world. The desire to see both

NY Filmmaker Shailja's Walkaway released online Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 27

The movie has eight songs across languages as they track the cross cultural stories in English, French, Hindi, Marwari and Tamil. Bollywood's mega music directors and leading international artists like Vishal & Shekhar, Ram Sampath, Sagar Desai, Manu Narayan, Kurush Mistry and Samrat Chakrabarti have contributed to the foot tapping music of the movie. Academy Award winner (sound mixing for Slumdog Millionaire) Resul Pookutty has provided the sound mixing for Walkaway. Renowned actor Shah Rukh Khan's production house Red Chillies Entertainment assisted in the post production, editing and VFX. The movie is available for viewing on walkawaymovie.com or facebook.com/walkawaymovie via a unique, first of its kind, in-

Renowned actor Shah Rukh Khan's production house Red Chillies Entertainment assisted in the post production, editing and VFX

Shailja Gupta

video paywall at a minimum cost of $2.99. Once paid, viewers can watch the movie anytime within 24 hours of the payment. Users can also support the cause of Independent cinema by donating higher amounts which gives them different options from getting DVDs to posters, website credits to producer credit. One can also download the songs from all Android Market Place and I-tunes.

of these come together resulted in the first ever Indian American choir performance in (based on ragas) in 1994. We in Cincinnati went on to collaborate with local choirs and expand our horizons. In 2004, we swelled to a size of 80 singers collaborating with 40 singers from local choirs in a performance of 'Shanti - A Journey of Peace', and then later on brought it to Houston where Houston's own Indian community choir collaborated with the United Nations choir to perform in front of 2800 people. The work we did in Cincinnati OH and Allentown PA and Houston TX has inspired the blossoming of Indian community choirs in Tampa FL, Ft. Lauderdale FL, Minneapolis MN and now Toronto. It is also inspiring other communities around North America to do similar work. Cincinnati is the birthplace of the Indian American choral singing. Now, the World choir games are coming to Cincinnati - the very first city in the United States to host this global event. The Greater Cincinnati Indian Community choir is competing in the 7th World Choir Games and will be presenting a repertoire based on ragas and ancient Sanskrit text clothed in choral polyphony in the second half of the games. The Games will grow in size, style and class over the years. It is only a matter of time before choral culture picks up in India and one day, the World Choir Games may be held in Delhi and Indian American choirs would travel to India to compete there as well. (Kanniks Kannikeswaran is an internationally known visionary musician, composer and music educator based in Cincinnati OH. He is hailed as the pioneer of the Indian American choral movement and has founded community choirs in several cities in North America. He serves on the music advisory committee of the World Choir Games. More info on his work can be seen at www.kanniks.com)

29 India post

n Cochin or Kochi, dawn is not often a thing of breathtaking beauty, but just a careless smear of tinted light where sea and sky unite. Daybreak is full of indeterminate promise. A slow lividness at the mist-obscured harbor mouth meets the swelling untamed surge of the ocean. Cargo-laden barges and vallams or country boats move ponderously slow, over the sprawling vastness of the Vembanad Kayal, Kerala's largest lake that spreads full bosomed and silver gray in the sultry sun. Location: Popularly referred to as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Cochin is located on the west cost of India in the beautiful state of Kerala. The city can be regarded as the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala. Best time to visit: Being situated very close to the sea, Kochi has a moderate climate, with heavy rains during June-August due to the southwest monsoon. Winter starts from December and continues till February. In summer, the temperature rises to a maximum of 35°C and 25°C in the winters. Annual average rainfall is 310 cm. History: Though Cochin had been an important roadstead in days gone by, it became a natural harbor only when nature decreed it so. Muziris (present-day Kodungalloor on the mouth of the Periyar River), 40 km north of Cochin, was the center of trade with ancient Rome in products like pepper and pearls, fine silks, cotton, muslin, honey, oil, betel, tortoise shell, cinnamon leaf, black pepper, ginger grass, and indigo. Cont’d from page 30

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July 20, 2012

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Travel & Hospitality Post

July 20, 2012

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The formation of Cochin harbor has a violent story of which nature herself was the main character. The harbor was formed in A.D. 1341, when a great flood in the Periyar River led to an outlet in the sea. The floods had meanwhile silted up the mouth of the Muziris harbor and this rich ancient port was banished to the footnotes of history. Meanwhile, the merchants of Muziris shifted to Cochin. For centuries, Cochin was the battleground of European powers for the mastery of the lucrative trade of the Indian west coast. The fortunes of political powers in Cochin were dictated by pepper. The Portuguese were the first to come in. Two years later, the adventurous mariner, the legendary Vasco da Gama himself landed in Cochin. The Portuguese erected a fort for the protection of their factory. Fort Manuel, or Manuel Kotta, named after the King of Portugal, was the first fortress constructed by the Europeans in India. To the Portuguese must go the credit for the extensive scientific cultivation of coconut, ginger, and pepper, backbone of Kerala's economy today. Tobacco, cashew nut, and fruit cultivation were also introduced. The pineapple, for instance, is still called prithichakka in Malayalam, meaning Portuguese jackfruit. They were also responsible for today's burgeoning trade in coir. The Dutch, full of energy and zeal, were next to enter the scene and succeeded in throwing out the Portuguese very soon. Helped by a laissez-faire policy and a selfstipulated dictum of "at least a 100% profit," Cochin saw a great resurgence of trade. But the Dutch never endured too, and it was the British who came in next to play out their role. A great milestone was the direct export of pepper to England in 1636 and once again, power flowed from pepper. For a hundred years and more, from 1795, Cochin received a gracious patronage of the British. They tried their best to develop the harbor at Cochin, the gateway of South India, but for long it remained a dream beyond the realm of hope for a rocklike barrier of sand blocked the approach to the port from the sea. No dredging proposition since the days of the Suez Canal project has aroused so much technical interest as the opening up of the Cochin Harbor. It fell to the lot of an Admiralty Engineer Sir Robert Bristow to envision this "marvel of engineering". It was not an easy task for Bristow to construct a port in these serendipitous surroundings. Cochin was declared a major port in 1936. With its opening, there was a complete reorientation of shipping and commercial activities on the Malabar Coast. With its year-round shipping facilities, it is the busiest port south of Bombay, lying as it does on the direct route to Australia and the Far East from Europe and serving the vast southern hinterland of industrial areas and plantations. It is a passenger port for the United Kingdom and America in South India. Moreover, it is one of the few ports of the world with all the three main forms of transport - land, sea, and air, centered in the same place. Tourist attractions

Cochin: Queen of the Arabian Sea Fort Cochin, with its European heritage, its air of genteel decay, and stubborn selfabsorption is a place where history, like a friendly phantom, still stalks the lonely streets. The European has left random imprints in Fort Cochin. The massive buttresses, which are so conspicuous a feature of the place, were put up by the British to protect the houses that had been shaken by the force of an explosion that blew up the cathedral of Santa Cruz. In fact, they themselves had bombarded the church fearing a possible restoration of Dutch supremacy in Cochin. In spite of it all, the Santa Cruz

backwater fishing and Fort Cochin is full of them. The Dutch palace at Mattancherry was actually built by the Portuguese and presented to the Cochin ruler Vira Kerala Varma in 1555 as an act of expiation for the plunder and desecration of a temple near the Raja's palace by a hot-headed young Portuguese officer. The extensions of the east and south and the wooden ceilings of the Coronation Hall were incorporated by the Dutch. The real glory of the palace however lies in its wall murals, all done using the tempera process of painting. Forty-five scenes from the Ramayana adorn the long

century oil paintings, old coins, sculptures, Mughal paintings, and temple models. Vypeen and Gundu islands boast of a lighthouse at Ochanthuruth, good beaches, and the 16th-century Pallipuram Fort. Places around Thripunithura, 12 km southwest, has a Hill Palace Museum housing the collections of the Cochin and Travancore royal families. Edapally, 10 km northeast of Ernakulam, has the Museum of Kerala History. Parur, 35 km north of Cochin, encapsulates the cultural and religious medley of this region. There is a synagogue, place of

Basilica still stands in a spirit of sturdy resistance. The chief landmark though is St. Francis' Church, built in the early 16th century. It is the pride of Fort Cochin. The most magnificent pageant enacted here was the burial of Vasco da Gama in 1526. Nevertheless, it was to be a temporary resting place for this "armed interloper," as after sixteen years later, his son Pedro da Silva Gama took away the mortal remains of his father back to Portugal. St. Francis' Church is the oldest existing European church in India. From this choir, for the first time in India, resounded

walls of the bedchamber. They are known for their brilliant execution. Of the paintings elsewhere in the palace, one is a large unfinished portrait of Lord Vishnu. Mattancherry has a predominantly Muslim population. But tucked away behind its tumult is Jew Town, a quiet cul-desac. A single street of old discolored buildings - Quaint houses of solid build" - where the few surviving members of the oldest Jewish settlement in India live. Hounded out of Muziris by the Portuguese, they came to Cochin in the 16th century and found an unexpected benefactor in the Raja of Cochin who allotted them this land near

Brahmins, a Syrian Orthodox Church, a Krishna Temple, and a temple of goddess Mookambic. Four kilometers away is Chennamangalam that houses the oldest synagogue in Kerala. There is also a Jesuit Church and ruins of a Jesuit College. One can also walk to the Hindu temple overlooking river Periyar, a 16th-century mosque, as well as burial grounds. Fairs & festivals: The deity of Shiva temple situated at the heart of Cochin is popularly known as Ernakulathappan. The annual festival is an eight-day event, and on all these days, Seeveli procession with nine tuskers and Panchavadyam are held. On the seventh evening, Pakalpooram is conducted. Kathakali, Ottanthullal, music concerts are presented by renowned artists. The festival concludes with the Arattu. The Valanjambalam Devi Temple located in the heart of Ernakulam celebrates an annual festival for two days known as Thalapoli Utsavam. The procession with five caparisoned elephants accompanied by temple musical ensembles known as Ezhunnallippu takes place on both days. How to reach Air - There are Indian Airlines and Jet Airways direct services to Delhi, Bombay, Madras, Goa, Bangalore, and Trivandrum from Cochin. Rail - Cochin is connected by rail to most of the important cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. Road - Cochin is connected by road with several tourist centers in India. It is 565 km from Bangalore, 223 km from Coimbatore, 848 km from Goa, 694 km from Madras, 470 km from Mysore, and 312 km form Ootacamund.

For a hundred years and more, from 1795, Cochin received a gracious patronage of the British. They tried their best to develop the harbor at Cochin, the gateway of South India, but for long it remained a dream beyond the realm of hope for a rock-like barrier of sand blocked the approach to the port from the sea the sonorous chants of Rome. The church began life as a wooden structure built by the five friars who accompanied the Portuguese to Cochin in 1503. The Franciscans, followers of St. Francis Xavier who visited Cochin in the early 16th century, raised the present edifice. The most enduring impression of Fort Cochin is the enigma of the Chinese fishing nets. Like totems from another age stranded in time, they perch along the backwaters. Curious clumsy things with no bright counterfeit graces. The Chinese fishing nets are the most efficient means of

his palace and helped them build their place of worship. The Paradeshi Synagogue was built in 1568 with timber supplied gratis by the Raja who is said to have personally instructed the masons to mix mortar with coconut water for strong walls. One of the oldest synagogues in the world, it is a jewel of incomparable beauty with its brass columns, Belgian hanging lamps, and exquisite handpainted, blue-and-white Chinese porcelain tiles of which no two are alike. The Parishath Thampuram Museum in Ernakulam has a large collection of 19th-

Travel & Hospitality Post

July 20, 2012

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J-K to boost Buddhist tourism in Ladakh LEH: Buoyed by heavy tourist arrival in Ladakh, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has embarked on an ambitious plan to put this Himalayan district on the Buddhist circuit to woo pilgrims. With tourism being a major sector contributing towards the development of the state's economy, the state government under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is planning to restore the existing monasteries in the region, hire landscaping experts, set up tourism centers as well as provide basic road infrastructure in the region. "We have submitted the detailed project report of the plans we want to implement in Ladakh to facilitate tourism in this region. The report which we have submitted is of Rs 150 crore to develop tourism circuit in three regions, Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh," says Tourism Minister Nawang Rigzin Jora. Out of this fund, Rs 50 crore has been earmarked to develop the Buddhist circuit

in Ladakh while the remaining will be spent on encouraging the Sufi tourism circuit in Kashmir and pilgrimage centers in Jammu. Keeping in view the increasing flow of tourists into Ladakh every year, the government plans to have facilities like the tour-

the Minister said. Last year around 1,48,588 tourists visited the region of which 29,856 were foreigners. Keeping these figures in mind the government is also keen not to spoil the natural beauty of the region which includes

There are about 35 Buddhist monasteries spread across the region which thrives on donations made by tourists and the local people of the region but now the government plans to develop these monasteries. "We may not be providing financial aid to these monasteries, but help them develop their infrastructure ist centers not only in the main city but also in places which hold tourist interests like the monasteries in Ladakh, areas around the banks of Indus river and many more. "These centers will guide tourists visiting the region and provide information to cater their every need and requirements,"

the famous fresh water Pangong Lake and highest motorable road to Khardungla. "For Ladakh, we are also promoting the natural beauty of the region. We do not want to build a water park nor an amusement park here," said Jora. There are about 35 Buddhist monaster-

ies spread across the region which thrives on donations made by tourists and the local people of the region but now the government plans to develop these monasteries. "We may not be providing financial aid to these monasteries, but help them develop their infrastructure by carrying out renovation and restoration works," said Jora. The Jammu and Kashmir government is hoping for financial aid to develop Ladakh into a bigger tourist attraction over the coming years and hopes to allocate the necessary funds in this financial year. "The Centre has still not decided on how much to allocate for our project. We are hopeful that when allocations are made by the Centre, they would be of substantial amount to put our plans into action," he said. The state government also plans to hire experts for landscaping of the barren regions and such a move was possible only after the Centre released funds. -PTI

Kerala tourism's mobile-based info products THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As part of its strategy to use Information Technology to promote its products, Kerala tourism has come out with a fresh set of mobile-based services and ITbased projects to make the passage to 'God's Own Country' hassle-free and make the stay pleasant. The new services like mobile website, WAP guide, applications and Bluetooth Kiosks were

launched by state Tourism Minister A P Anil Kumar here. Visitors connected with their smart phones and mobile apps would be able to explore destinations without external support, but by using these products having a wide range of features like tour planning, updates, guidance and destination details, a Kerala Tourism press release said. The Tourism Department is also setting up Bluetooth kiosks of in-

ternational standards at key places like airports in the state to help tourists coming. Kerala Tourism had won the national Tourism Award for its website (www.keralatourism.org) five times in the last decade, recognizing its innovations. The Kerala Tourism website, started with just 50 visitors a day in 1998, now gets 7000-8000 visits per day and more than 2.5 million visits a year.

Taj, Dal Lake to be made hygiene-friendly

Incredible India attracted 4.32 lakh foreigners

NEW DELHI: With an aim of doubling the visitor count, the Tourism Ministry has decided to provide clean and hygienic environment at 98 prominent tourist sites including Taj Mahal, Dal Lake, Red Fort and India Gate. "Currently there are about six million foreign tourists coming to the country and our aim is to increase it to 12 million," Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahai said, adding "For this we have to provide a hygienic environment around tourist destinations of the country". Round-the-clock garbage clearance, maintenance of parking lots and toilets and proper signages at the tourist complex are some of the steps to be carried out under the Clean India campaign launched by the ministry. "We are seeking the involvement of corporates, PSUs and NGOs in the campaign as the project will be carried out in the PPP model," Sahai said. The campaign in sync with the

NEW DELHI: Continuing the growth trajectory, the Incredible India campaign attracted 4.32 lakh foreigners in June this year as compared to 4.12 lakh in same period last year registering a 4.8 per cent increase. Foreign exchange earnings from tourism also recorded a robust growth of 19.2 per cent during this period as the exchequer earned Rs 6485 crore compared to Rs 5440 crore in the corresponding period last year, according to Tourism Ministry data. Altogether 32.37 lakh foreign tourists visited the country during January-June 2012 against 30.15 lakh during the same period last year. The Ministry had undertaken a series of road shows abroad showcasing tourist destinations to woo foreign tourists. Besides, the ministry has also launched a Clean India campaign to keep tourist sites across the country hygienic. -PTI

12th Five Year Plan has twin objectives - increase tourist arrivals to the country and improve quality of services in and around tourist destinations across the country. There are about 14 tourist sites in the capital including India Gate, Connaught Place, Chandni Chowk, Lotus Temple, Jantar Mantar, Rajghat, Purana Qila and Safdarjung Tomb which have been selected to be covered under the project. Besides Konrak, Charminar, Kovalam Beach, Mysore Palace, Golkonda Fort, Ajanta Caves and Mahabodhi Temple, Har ki Pauri, Hawa Mahal are among the 98 chosen destinations. Clean India campaign is a multipronged action and comprehensive strategy to ensure an acceptable level of cleanliness and hygiene practices at tourist destinations for an inclusive and sustainable development of tourism through ownership and involvement of private and public sector stakeholders.-PTI

Kerala tourism is also active in social media like You Tube with three million video views a year, 1.76 lakh fans on Facebook and 9500 followers on Twitter. IT initiatives for travelers and industry, social media campaigns

like micro-blogging, social networking, travel social networks, photo sharing, brand video channel on Youtube, Facebook fan page, web-based campaigns have given edge to Kerala to win the award. -PTI

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Public health clinics to expand in South Dakota SIOUX FALLS, S.D.: The Supreme Court's upholding of the federal health care law has cleared the way for public health clinics in South Dakota to expand. The federally funded community clinics are primarily for people who do not have health insurance, or live in communities that can't support a private clinic. The Argus Leader reports that the 44 clinics in South Dakota treated 58,000 patients last year. Community Health Care Association of the Dakotas CEO Scot Graff says expansion of the system would have been in jeopardy had the Supreme Court overturned the health care law. He says new clinics are planned in Huron, De Smet, Flandreau and Yankton. -AP

Health Science 34

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Groups urge Sen. Brown to embrace health care law BOSTON: A coalition of health care, neighborhood and labor groups is urging U.S. Sen. Scott Brown to drop his opposition to the health care law signed by President Obama.-AP

July 20, 2012

New AAPI president for standing united & giving back to society

Obama says NH wrong on federal health reform WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama says New Hampshire officials are wrong to believe the state should be free from the mandates of federal health care provisions. In an interview with WMURTV, Obama said the federal government picks up the tab, at least initially. And he says many New Hampshire residents will benefit from participating in health exchanges that are to be established. The state Senate is considering barring New Hampshire officials from planning, creating or participating in a state health care exchange. Supporters argue a state health care exchange would be federally controlled. -AP

White House will veto health care repeal WASHINGTON: The White House has issued a veto threat for a House bill to overturn President Barack Obama's health care law. The White House says the repeal would cost millions of American families the security of affordable health coverage. House Republicans are scheduled to vote to overturn the law this week. The vote is largely symbolic since it has no chance of passage in the Democrat-controlled Senate. But the vote will put House members on record for the upcoming election campaign. -AP

President Dr.Narendra Kumar receiving the gavel from outgoing President Dr.Sunita Kanumury on June 30 at the AAPI Annual Convention in Long Beach, California. Also seen are Dr Jayesh Shah (left), President-Elect and Dr Ravi Jahagirdar (Right), Vice President India Post News Service

LONG BEACH, CA: Healthcare has come to occupy center stage, especially after the recent Supreme Court ruling upholding the Affordable Health Care Act enabling nearly 47 Million Americans without health coverage to buy or obtain health care coverage. Physicians play a central role in providing healthcare services to every individual, both in preventing as well as treating diseases. Physicians of Indian Origin in the United States are reputed to be leading health care providers, holding crucial positions in various hospitals and health care facilities around the nation. Leading an organization that represents more than 45,000 physicians of Indian origin in the US, and being their voice and providing a

forum to its members to collectively work together to meet their diverse needs, is a major challenge. Dr. Narendra Kumar, President of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) appears to be right on task and is committed to leading AAPI to greater heights.

AAPI President Dr Narendra Kumar delivering the Presidential acceptance speech, with Executive Committee members on the stage

restore AAPI's image, improve financial health, and bring unity, integrity and stability to our organization. I am confident that we will all work together for the betterment of the organization as well as the members and the people we are committed to serve. We will all work together, stay focused, and

Physicians of Indian Origin in the United States are reputed to be leading health care providers, holding crucial positions in various hospitals and health care facilities around the nation "Thank you for giving me this opportunity to serve you as your President. Let's start this 'New Year' on a positive note. Let me assure you that we will put all our energy in the positive direction to

make you all proud of our organization:" With these opening remarks, Dr. Narendra Kumar, the new president began his presidency of this noble organization on June 25 during its Convention Lighting the lamp

in Long Beach, CA. In his efforts to lead this premier organization, Dr. Kumar is being assisted by his dedicated Executive Committee that consists of Dr. Jayesh Shah, President-Elect; Dr. Ravi Jahagirdar, Vice President; Dr. Seema Jain, Secretary; Dr. Ajay Lodha, Treasurer; Dr. Durgesh Mankikar; Dr. Kusum Punjabi, YPS President; and Dr. Amit Bhakoo, MSRF President. While lauding the efforts of the outgoing team and the committee that had organized the recent Convention, Dr. Kumar said, "We just concluded our 30th Annual convention in Long Beach and it was well attended and well organized. My sincere appreciation to Dr. Sudeep Kukreja and his committee for putting together such a fabulous convention." Cont'd on page 36

July 20, 2012

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Texas won't expand Medicaid, says Gov. Perry DALLAS: Gov. Rick Perry has said that Texas won't establish an online marketplace for patients to shop for insurance or expand Medicaid, two key elements of the federal health care overhaul. In a letter sent to U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, Perry said both elements ``represent brazen intrusions into the sovereignty of our state.'' ``I will not be party to socializing health care and bankrupting my state in direct contradiction to our Constitution and our founding principles of limited government,'' Perry said in a statement. The Supreme Court upheld most of the federal health care law last month, although it said the federal government can't withhold states' entire Medicaid allotment if they don't expand Medicaid, the health insurance program for the poor and disabled. If states choose not to set up a health care exchange, an online service for people to comparison shop for insurance, the federal government will establish one for them. About 6.2 million Texans - a quarter of the state's population - are uninsured. Expanding Medicaid would add millions of people ``into the already unsustainable Medicaid program, at a potential cost of billions to Texas taxpayers,'' said Perry, a Republican. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has estimated the Medicaid expansion would cost the state $27 billion in the first 10 years, a number many Democrats dispute.

The state has estimated about 2 million people would be added to the Texas Medicaid rolls in the first two years if it went ahead with the expansion. Texas House Speaker Joe Straus, another Republican, said he hoped voters would address the issue by electing Republican presidential candidate Mitt Rom-

Rick Perry wrote in a letter to Kathleen Sebelius: 'I stand proudly with the growing chorus of governors who reject the Obamacare power grab.'

ney, who has promised to repeal the health care law. He would not say what he thought the state would do if President Barack Obama is re-elected. ``There are a lot of stakeholders we'd need to hear from before we could make a

TIP OF THE WEEK

decision on that,'' Straus said. Texas Medical Association survey given to The Associated Press over the weekend found that the number of Texas doctors willing to accept government-funded health insurance plans for the poor and the elderly has dropped dramatically amid complaints about low pay and red tape.

Texas Medical Association survey given to The Associated Press over the weekend found that the number of Texas doctors willing to accept government-funded health insurance plans for the poor and the elderly has dropped dramatically amid complaints about low pay and red tape Only 31 percent of Texas doctors said they were accepting new patients who rely on Medicaid. In 2010, the last time the survey was done, 42 percent of doctors were accepting new Medicaid patients. In 2000, that number was 67 percent. -AP

Tame leg cramps with tomato juice

t least one in five people regularly struggle with leg cramps. The culprit? Potassium deficiencies, which occur when this mineral is flushed out by diuretics, caffeinated beverages or heavy perspiration during exercise. But sip 10 ounces of potassium-rich tomato juice daily and you'll not only speed your recovery, you'll reduce your risk of painful cramp flareups in as little as 10 days, say UCLA researchers.

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India Post

July 20, 2012

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Medicaid official rules against Ind. abortion law INDIANAPOLIS: Indiana's decision to deny Planned Parenthood Medicaid funds because it performs abortions denies women the freedom to choose their health care providers, a federal hearing officer said. The state had asked the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in Chicago to reconsider its June 2011 ruling that found changes in Indiana's Medicaid plan unacceptable. But a hearing officer recommended that a CMS administrator uphold the agency's initial decision. The changes to Indiana's plan resulted from a 2011 law that would have made the state the first to deny the organization Medicaid funds for general health services, including cancer screenings. The law has been on hold while the dispute works its way through the courts. The Indiana attorney general's office, which already is appealing a federal judge's order blocking the law, said it may also contest the panel's recommendation. The state had argued that the dispute should be decided administratively by the

CMS, not in court. ``Because this is a recommendation, the Attorney General's Office has a chance to file an exception to it before the CMS administrator makes a final decision,'' the agency said in a statement. Planned Parenthood of Indiana said it

Indiana, said in a statement. While Planned Parenthood officials had feared they might have to close some of the organization's 28 clinics in Indiana or suspend some services because of a loss of Medicaid funds, that has not happened so far. Cockrum has said about 9,300 women

The changes to Indiana's plan resulted from a 2011 law that would have made the state the first to deny the organization Medicaid funds for general health services, including cancer screenings. The law has been on hold while the dispute works its way through the courts was gratified by the decision. ``Through its appeal, the State was continuing its attack on women's rights and attempting to restrict access to basic, lifesaving services such as Pap tests, breast exams, STD testing and treatment, and birth control,'' Betty Cockrum, chief executive officer of Planned Parenthood of

rely on Planned Parenthood for their health care. Indiana had argued that Medicaid funds intended to help groups like Planned Parenthood provide general health care would indirectly subsidize abortions. The Hyde Amendment, a 1976 provision named after the late Rep. Henry Hyde, R-Ill., bans all

federal funds for abortion except in cases of rape, incest or when the life of the mother is at risk. The state also said Planned Parenthood could continue to receive Medicaid funding if it established separate fiscal entities for abortion and other health care. But CMS said such an option was premature. Hearing officer Benjamin Cohen wrote that the Indiana law violated the federal requirement that individuals must have the freedom to obtain care from any qualified provider. Restricting that choice just because a care provider also offers non-covered care isn't allowed, he wrote. Indiana asked the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in Chicago last August to lift U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt's June 24, 2011, preliminary injunction blocking parts of the abortion law. The court has not yet ruled. Another federal appeals court ruled in May that Texas cannot ban Planned Parenthood from receiving state funds, at least until a lower court has a chance to hear formal arguments. -AP

New AAPI president for standing united & giving back to society

Cont'd from page 34

Expressing relief and satisfaction over amicably "putting to rest" the sensitive $100 membership issue after the discussions in detail in the Governing Body and General Body meetings, Dr. Kumar reported that "It was decided to accept those 1,400 new members in question as legitimate patron members with full privileges and accept 80 more applications for patron membership received at the AAPI office this year without any sponsor names." From July 1, AAPI has increased the patron membership fee to $1,000 and annual membership fee will remain as $100. Commenting on the steady growth of the organization, Dr. Kumar remarked: "The organization's meteoric rise from a basement three decades ago to become one of today's premier ethnic medical associations is a tribute to its past leaders, a network of hardworking committees, and a constituency of 65,000 physicians and more than 25,000 fellows and residents. AAPI has become a force to reckon with.

AAPI's stellar role has come in for appreciation with the US political leaders and law makers." While serving as an umbrella organization for more than 130 member associations nationwide, AAPI was formed to coordinate

in the healthcare legislation and policy arena. Dr. Kumar has ascended to prominence with his decades of hard work and dedication for the organization and the people it is committed to serve. As a Regional

instrumental in recruiting over 170 new AAPI patron members during this time. On his vision for the organization under his leadership, Dr. Kumar says, "My vision is to continue improving the high stan-

As members of AAPI, we have not forgotten our roots and are engaged in several activities such as conducting Indo-US Healthcare Summit in Kochi this year that will blaze new trail in healthcare sector the efforts of the physicians of Indian origin, currently working in the United States. Headquartered in Chicago, with an office in Washington, DC, AAPI has come to be recognized as a strong voice

Director of AAPI, Dr. Kumar had attended almost all the local AAPI chapter meetings in his region in an attempt to serve as a liaison between the local chapters and the national organization, and he was

dards that are already set and reach even higher goals. AAPI has several primary goals: We are into education of physicians both here in the US and in India: providing best medical care to pa-

tients; and maintaining legislative presence in Washington DC." "It's been a privilege for me to be associated with AAPI because I recognize the tremendous role that is being played by AAPI in promoting friendship between India and the United States. And we will carry on this responsibility of ours with greater commitment. As members of AAPI, we have not forgotten our roots and are engaged in several activities such as conducting Indo-US Healthcare Summit in Kochi this year that will blaze new trail in healthcare sector in India and will pave way for new frontiers in public private partnership." AAPI Global Healthcare Summit Registration in Cochin, Kerala during January 1-4, 2013 is now open and "I would encourage you to register as soon as possible to avoid disappointment." The nine city educational, scientific, and musical tour by Shreya Ghoshal and party from September 21 to October 7 is "yet another way of reaching our mission around the nation," Dr. Kumar said.

July 20, 2012

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Montana high court says Cannabis could be used obesity may be impairment to treat obesity

Severe obesity can cause someone to stand out in a crowd, as well as stand out to many medical researchers, who have linked being overweight to living with a much greater risk of developing diverse diseases, including breast cancer, heart disease and stroke.

HELENA, Mont.: The state Supreme Court says obesity qualifies as an impairment in some cases under the Montana Human Rights Act, potentially allowing obese people to seek greater protection against discrimination. The divided court handed down the ruling in a case between Eric Feit and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway, finding that if a person's weight is outside the normal range and affects one or more body systems, it may constitute a physical or mental impairment even if it's not a symptom of some underlying disease or health condition. The case began in 2009, when Feit filed a complaint with the Montana Department of Labor contending BNSF withdrew a conditional offer to hire him as a conductor trainee because of the ``significant health and safety risks associated with extreme obesity,'' the Helena Independent Record reported. According to court documents, the company told Feit in 2008 that the position he had applied for was ``safety sensitive.'' The company said Feit wouldn't be considered unless he lost 10 percent of his body weight or successfully completed additional physical examinations at his own expense, and even if he did he wouldn't be guaranteed a job. Feit completed all the physical tests requested by BNSF except for a sleep test, which cost $1,800 and which he said he couldn't afford, court records said. Then he set out to lose 10 percent of his weight, which he contends he did, though the company says he didn't document the weight loss. The court documents don't appear to reveal how much Feit weighed. A hearing officer with the department agreed with Feit the following year, finding that BNSF refused to hire him because it regarded him as disabled, and awarded Feit damages. BNSF appealed to the Montana Human Rights Commission, which upheld the Department of Labor's finding, and then the railway took the matter to federal court.

U.S. District Judge Donald Molloy asked the Montana Supreme Court to clarify the state law. Three Montana Supreme Court justices dissented with the majority decision: Justices Brian Morris, Mike McGrath and James Rice. Morris and McGrath said interpretive guidance from the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission requires a plaintiff to prove that they have an underlying physiological condition or disorder if they want to claim they were discriminated

According to court documents, the company told Feit in 2008 that the position he had applied for was ``safety sensitive.'' The company said Feit wouldn't be considered unless he lost 10 percent of his body weight or successfully completed additional physical examinations at his own expense, and even if he did he wouldn't be guaranteed a job against because of obesity. And Rice said recent changes to the federal Americans with Disabilities Act shouldn't be considered when applying Montana's law to Feit's claim, because the changes were made after the dispute between Feit and BNSF. Federal cases decided under earlier versions of the ADA held that obesity isn't important unless tied to a physiological disorder, he noted. Justices Beth Baker, James Nelson, Mike Wheat and Patricia O'Brien Cotter joined in the majority decision. -AP

esearchers have discovered two Although cannabis is an illegal drug, GW compounds from cannabis leaves Pharmaceuticals has been granted a license that can increase the amount of en- to grow the plant in specially constructed ergy the body burns. Test in animals have greenhouses on a secret facility in the already shown the compounds can help treat south of England. type two diabetes while also helping to reAlthough cannabis is better known for duce levels of cholesterol in the blood stream inducing hunger in those who smoke it, and fat in key organs like the liver. known as the munchies. when the scientists They are now conducting clinical trials examined two compounds, called THCV and in 200 patients in the hope of producing a cannabidiol, they were found to have an apdrug that can be used to treat petite suppressing effect. patients suffering from "metaThis effect only lasts for a When the scienbolic syndrome", where diashort time, however. When the betes, high blood pressure tists looked closer, scientists looked closer, they and obesity combine to in- they found the found the compounds also had crease the risk of heart disan impact on the level of fat in compounds also the body and its response to ease and stroke. Dr Steph Wright, director had an impact insulin, a hormone that controls of research and development on the level of fat the sugar levels in the blood. at GW Pharmaceuticals which Tests in mice showed the is developing the drugs, said: in the body compounds boosted the ani"We are conducting four mals metabolism, leading to Phase 2a clinical trials and we expect some lower levels of fat in their livers and reduced results later this year. cholesterol in their blood stream. "The results in animal models have been THCV was also found to increase the very encouraging. We are interested in how animals sensitivity to insulin while also prothese drugs effect the fat distribution and tecting the cells that produce insulin, alutilization in the body as a treatment for lowing them to work better and for longer. metabolic diseases. It has raised hopes that the drugs can "Humans have been using these plants be developed into treatments for obesity for thousands of years so we have quite a lot related diseases and type 2 diabetes. of experience of the chemicals in the plants." -Courtesy telegraph.co.uk

In Brief Arizona move on immigration affects SC law COLUMBIA, S.C: A federal judge says he needs to revisit an order blocking South Carolina's anti-illegal immigration law now that the U.S. Supreme Court has overturned nearly all of Arizona's similar legislation. U.S. District Judge Richard Gergel said he wants to reconsider his December ruling in which he blocked several provisions of South Carolina's law from going into effect. The federal government sued to block South Carolina's law, which was modeled on Arizona legislation. Last month, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned most of Arizona's law but left intact a provision allowing authorities to ask the citizenship status of people stopped for another reason. State prosecutors appealed Gergel's original decision. For now, South Carolina authorities have been told to abide by the order that put the law's enforcement on hold. -AP

Immigrant lawyer: Obama policy clears him for bar TALLAHASSEE, Fla.: An illegal immigrant says an Obama administration change to U.S. immigration policy means there are no grounds to deny him a Florida law license. President Barack Obama announced last month that illegal immigrants no older than 30 who arrived as children, have no criminal history, and have high school degrees or military service could stay and work in this country. In a motion, Jose GodinezSamperio told the state Supreme Court that the administration's order makes him eligible for legal immigration status and work authorization in the US. -AP

Hansen to again push immigration bills CARSON CITY, Nev: A Republican assemblyman from Sparks says he'll introduce two bills again next year to crack down on illegal immigration, even though he doesn't expect either to pass the Legislature. One of Ira Hansen's proposals would allow election workers to require photo identification at polling places before voters could cast ballots. The other would allow police to request identification of people they suspect are in the country illegally after they have stopped their vehicles for another violation. -AP

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Indian guilty of drug smuggling in Australia MELBOURNE: An Indian-origin couple, arrested in Australia on drug smuggling charges last year, got respite from an Adelaide court that released the husband on a 'good behavior bond' as part of a plea bargain. The Indian American couple was accused of smuggling 200 gm of opium into Australia and their lawyer told the court that the man, who was an addict, feared the wrath of his wife more than that of the law, while trying to smuggle in the drug. 56-year old Inderjit Singh appeared in the local district court and pleaded guilty to one count of importing a border control drug, local media reported. He was sentenced to nine months in prison but the judge ordered that he be released on a two-year 'good behavior bond' of 500 dollars. Singh along with his 53-year old wife Jasbinder were arrested in October last year. They were jointly charged with importing or exporting a marketable quantity of a border-controlled drug and were facing pos-

sible 25-year jail terms. It was alleged that the couple was carrying the drug which was mixed with another substance and was placed inside shampoo and talcum powder tins and packed with chillis. Earlier, prosecutors had told the court the amount of opium in the couple's luggage was 10 times what is considered, under law, to be criminally marketable. However, they tendered no evi-

ately released on a two-year, 500 dollar 'good behavior bond'. "I accept you have suffered greatly as a result of this very foolish behavior," he said. Immigration Department officers were present in court for the hearing and escorted the couple "for interview". Singh's lawyer Jessica Kurtzer told the court the plea bargain reflected the unique circumstances of the case. She said an Indian

"He didn't want to argue with his wife about it (and) decided he would bring it to Australia in the tins, not realizing the criminality behind it". "He was more concerned with fearing the wrath of his wife than the law," the lawyer said dence against Jasbinder and downgraded the charge against Inderjit. In sentencing, Judge Wayne Chivell said he would take Inderjit's assertions into account "with a grain of salt". "You went to elaborate lengths to disguise (the drug)," he said while jailing Inderjit for nine months. The judge also ordered he be immedi-

hospital had legally prescribed her client opium for irritable bowel syndrome - only for him to become addicted. The couple, she said, came to Adelaide as part of a planned tour of Australia and New Zealand. "Prior to departure, my client's wife confronted him to see if he was bringing his medication (and

said) if he was, she would simply not go," Kurtzer said. "He didn't want to argue with his wife about it (and) decided he would bring it to Australia in the tins, not realizing the criminality behind it". "He was more concerned with fearing the wrath of his wife than the law," the lawyer said. Kurtzer said her client was no longer an addict after spending eight weeks in custody and undergoing enforced detox. "That's the irony of his trip to Australia - he had to come here and get arrested to stop using this medication". She asked he be immediately released so he could return to India as the couple's business and property was in jeopardy and the couple's three adult children were ill. Meanwhile, prosecution Alice Devitt said chilli was a well-known method of attempting to distract sniffer dogs. She said customs officers had caught Inderjit trying to flush some of the opium down a toilet. -PTI

Accepting unrefuted, unsupported govt assertions DAVID A. ISAACSON

n a previous article, "The Prejudice Caused By Sum mary Removal After Visa Waiver Admission: What the Third Circuit Missed in Vera and Bradley"(www.cyrusmehta.com), I discussed the case of Vera v. Attorney General of the U.S., in which the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit held that a woman who had entered the United States at the age of 12 under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) could be removed without a hearing before an immigration judge, even though the government could not produce proof that she had actually waived her right to such a hearing. The Third Circuit in Vera relied on a presumption that the waiver must have been properly executed since this was required by statute

in order for Ms. Vera to be admitted under the VWP, and also on the argument, first accepted by the Third Circuit in the case of Bradley v. Attorney General of the U.S., 603 F.3d 235 (3d Cir. 2010), that there was no prejudice to Ms. Vera

article, the assertion of lack of prejudice that formed an important part of the Third Circuit's initial decision in Vera was based on an error. It has now become apparent that the presumption of a proper waiver in the Third Circuit's

It has now become apparent that the presumption of a proper waiver in the Third Circuit's decision was also based on an error. The Third Circuit has now had to vacate its decision in Vera from any lack of a knowing and voluntary waiver because the summary removal that she now faced was the same consequence that she would have faced if she had refused to sign the waiver. As explained in my previous

decision was also based on an error, one that helps illustrate why courts in the immigration context should be reluctant to indulge unproven executive-branch assertions about how something must have happened.

The Third Circuit has now had to vacate its decision in Vera, because the government discovered that Ms. Vera actually was not admitted under the VWP at all! As discussed in a June 11 post on AILA's Slip Opinion blog, following the Third Circuiit's March 1 decision in her case, Ms. Vera secured pro bono counsel to represent her in a petition for rehearing en banc before the Third Circuit, and they in conjunction with the New York State Youth Leadership Council succeeded in getting her released from immigration detention in April after she had been detained for nine months. Then, as reported on May 21 by Ms. Vera's new pro bono counsel at the Heartland Alliance's National Immigrant Justice Center Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 40

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Aussie firm to hire Indian workers for its abattoir MELBOURNE: Australian Agricultural Company (AAco), country's largest beef producer, is eyeing Indian labor market to fill up 260 position at its AUD 80 million abattoirs located in Darwin. According to business daily 'Australian Financial Review' report, AAco chief executive David Farley said the company had been working on a plan for 18 months which includes importing workers on 457 and 417 visas from India. "If we go into this project with fear of unions and industrial problems then I shouldn't be starting this project," Farley told the daily recently. "We want to run a safe, fair and equitable plant that offers longterm employment opportunities for people and therefore we need a productive workforce and if we go into this project with that philoso-

"India will be key, but of course we have a relationship with IFFCO which kills about 3.5 million buffalo a year - so we have a bit of access to the skills there," he said phy we will be there for a long time. "The company has confirmed it acquired a 600 hectare property for AUD 13.27 million and would release a market tender to build the facility within 60 days. Farley said India would be the main country where it would seek the skilled meat-manufacturing

labor. "India will be key, but of course we have a relationship with IFFCO which kills about 3.5 million buffalo a year - so we have a bit of access to the skills there," he said. IFFCO is a major Malaysian shareholder in AAco. Farley said he wanted to have a "good domestic content" but "we will also be looking to bring in people from offshore". He said the company was putting together several applications to the government for the visas. A spokesman for Minister for Immigration and Citizenship Chris Bowen said the applications would be assessed in the usual manner. "Each application will be assessed on its merits by a case-bycase basis against the 457 criteria," he said. -PTI

New UK visa step to detect bogus Indian students LONDON: Britain has announced a targeted interview system for student visa applicants from India and other nonEU countries to prevent abuse and to ensure that they are refused visas if immigration officials have doubts about their genuineness as students. The new measure follows a pilot scheme carried out in India, Pakistan and 11 other countries, which revealed that some applicants could not answer basic questions in English without an interpreter, but had claimed in forms that they had the ability to study at UK universities. During the pilot, over 2,300 interviews were conducted at application stage between December 2011 and February 2012. It revealed that almost half (45 per cent) of applicants from Myanmar would have been refused visas if they had been interviewed. The figure for India was 29 per cent, and 38 per cent for Bangladesh, the Home Office said. "Under the current system UK

Border Agency officers are unable to refuse some applications even if they have serious concerns over the credibility of the student - we are toughening up the system to ensure genuine students benefit from our country's excellent education sector," Immigration Min-

‘With more interviews and greater powers to refuse bogus students we will weed out abuse and protect the UK from those looking to play the system’ ister Damian Green said. "Britain is open for business to the brightest and the best migrants but the message is clear - if you lie on your application form or try to hide your true motivation for coming to the UK then you will be found out and refused a visa."

The pilot analysis mentions case studies of three Indian applicants whose responses during interviews raised doubts about their credibility and genuineness. The Home Office said that the new system will run for a year, and concentrate on high-risk students in India and other non-EU countries. Nearly 14,000 student applicants are expected to be interviewed during the year. Green said: "With more interviews and greater powers to refuse bogus students we will weed out abuse and protect the UK from those looking to play the system". The Home Office also announced that news restrictions announced recently applicable for non-EU spouses and other family migration categories have come into effect. Now, family visit applicants in India and other non-EU countries refused visas will not have the right to appeal. An appeal will only be allowed on human rights or race discrimination grounds, the Home Office said. -PTI

British suspect 'Fast Eddie' deported from US LONDON: A British man deported from the United States after two decades on the run has appeared in a UK court to face trial over an armored van robbery. Dubbed "Fast Eddie" by Brit-

ish media, Edward J. Maher was working as a guard for a security company in 1993 when authorities say he conducted a heist in Suffolk that netted him a haul of British currency worth about USD 1.5

million at the time. Maher, 57, was arrested in Missouri earlier this year on immigration charges. British police say Maher has been deported from the US and has appeared in court. -AP

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Olympic chaos continues at Heathrow immigration LONDON: A top British lawmaker has said he was appalled by the long immigration queues at Heathrow airport that will receive thousands of visitors for the London Olympics starting on July 27. "I was appalled by the length of queues in the immigration hall this morning. It is now two months since the Immigration Minister promised additional resources and better management," Keith Vaz, chairman of the Home Affairs Select Committee told PTI after visiting Terminal 4

at 7 of Heathrow airport. "The worst aspect was that half of the immigration desks were simply not opened even though the Border Force had prior knowledge of all flight arrivals. This creates additional security pressures with luggage piling up in the baggage hall," he said. Heathrow is the fourth busiest airport in the world in terms of total passenger traffic, handling more international passengers than any other airport around the globe.

Immigration minister Damian Green has defended the Government's record, insisting there had been significant improvements in the last two months Long queues at immigration days before the Olympics begin have been often reported in the news

Accepting unrefuted, unsupported govt assertions Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 38

(NIJC) , to whom congratulations are due, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) cancelled the removal order against Ms. Vera after belatedly realizing that Ms. Vera had not been admitted under the VWP, and the Office for Immigration Litigation (OIL) (federal court lawyers who represent DHS), filed a motion to throw out Vera's immigration case. On May 25, at the urging of Ms. Vera's new NIJC counsel, Ms. Vera was granted deferred action in the exercise of prosecutorial discretion. And in an order issued on June 13, the Third Circuit vacated its earlier decision in Vera and dismissed the case, because there was no longer any final order of removal and thus nothing for the Third Circuit to review. In its June 13 order vacating its earlier decision, the Third Circuit stated: "The Court notes that it based its decision on the incorrect representation of the Department of Homeland Security that petitioner was admitted to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program and further notes that petitioner did not challenge this representation." The original March 1 decision had acknowledged that Ms. Vera "did not concede expressly that she entered the United States under the VWP" but concluded that the government's assertions, plus Ms. Vera's failure to contend oth-

erwise, left the Court "satisfied" that such was the case: In her opening brief in this Court, Vera did not concede expressly that she entered the United States pursuant to the VWP. But the government in its answering brief pointed out that Vera stated that she was admitted under the VWP in the Record of Sworn Statement that she executed

The Third Circuit vacated its earlier decision in Vera and dismissed the case, because there was no longer any final order of removal and thus nothing for the Third Circuit to review when Immigration and Custom Enforcement officers took her into custody and that her father, in an affidavit submitted on her behalf, made the same representation. Though she had the opportunity in her reply brief to contest the government's representation of the contents of those documents she did not do so nor does she deny now that she entered the United States under the auspices of the VWP. Moreover, she does not contend that she entered the

United States on any basis other than under the VWP. In these circumstances, we are satisfied that she entered pursuant to the VWP. We also point out that there is no indication in the briefs or the record on the petition before us that she ever has left this country since the time of her entry. - Vera v. Att'y Gen., 11-3157 (3d Cir. March 1, 2012), slip op. at 4 n.3. That is, the Third Circuit concluded from the government's unchallenged descriptions of prior statements made by Ms. Vera and her father that Ms. Vera must have been admitted under the VWP, despite the lack of any documentation showing this to be true. This despite the fact that Ms. Vera was describing events that had happened more than 10 years ago, in September of 2000, when she was only 12 years old. Although hindsight is, to be sure, 20-20, it is problematic to expect someone to have definitive knowledge of what specific immigration-law provision she entered under many years ago during her childhood, and it is not that much better to rely on the recollection even of an adult layman regarding the legal details of an immigrationrelated event that occurred more than a decade ago. (To be continued) * Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com

media, with promises that extra staff were being trained or recruited for the flagship event of the year. Immigration minister Damian Green has defended the Government's record, insisting there had been significant improvements in the last two months. He said: "But we're not complacent about some long waiting times, which is why this weekend we have increased staffing numbers by more than 50 per cent at

Heathrow to respond to large passenger volumes." Green added: "And by the start of peak Olympic arrivals in less than 10 days, there will be up to 500 additional staff on our rotas across the country - this includes enough staff at Heathrow to cover every desk during busy times". Special lanes had been designated for Olympic athletes to enable them to pass through immigration without delay, he said. -PTI

Mass. Gov. asks for change in ID provision in budget

Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick

BOSTON: Gov. Deval Patrick has asked the Legislature to amend a state budget provision that would require anyone seeking to register a car in Massachusetts to provide proof of legal U.S. residency, calling the measure ``overbroad.'' Patrick, in a message sent to lawmakers, said he would not go along with efforts to compel state authorities to enforce U.S. immigration laws. ``The recent ruling by the United States Supreme Court, striking down most of Arizona's anti-immigrant law, underscores the importance of states treading lightly in this federal space,'' the governor wrote. Patrick did not veto the provision outright, but instead asked lawmakers to consider an amended version. While the bulk of the revised language in the amendment was the same, a key change would remove the phrase ``proof of legal residence'' and replace it with ``proof of residence in the Commonwealth.'' The provision approved by the Legislature and the governor's proposed amendment would allow applicants for a motor vehicle or trailer registration to present a driver's license, identification card or Social Security number to the Registry of Motor Vehicles. Both would also allow the RMV to grant exemptions for out-of-state college

students, military personnel, senior citizens and disabled persons. Advocates for immigrants had urged Patrick to veto the provision and several others attached to the fiscal 2013 budget, including increased penalties for driving without a license or knowingly allowing an unlicensed driver to operate a motor vehicle.

While the bulk of the revised language in the amendment was the same, a key change would remove the phrase â&#x20AC;&#x153;proof of legal residence'' and replace it with â&#x20AC;&#x153;proof of residence in the Commonwealth.'' The governor approved those other provisions, saying that while they appeared to be motivated by ``efforts to regulate the activities of undocumented people in Massachusetts,'' they were ``race and ethnic neutral'' and would benefit public safety. Patrick also signed off on a measure establishing a new crime for trafficking in counterfeit licenses or identification cards. -AP

Briefs

Indirect Tax collection up 13.8 pc in April-June NEW DELHI: Indirect tax collections during the April-June period rose by 13.8 per cent to over Rs 1.07 lakh crore, much slower than the targeted 27 per cent growth for this fiscal. "The overall indirect tax figure for April-June 2012 stood at Rs 1,07,959 crore, up 13.8 per cent from corresponding period last year," a senior finance ministry official told PTI. "We will achieve this year's indirect tax collection target of Rs 5.05 lakh crore", he said. The government has fixed indirect tax - comprising customs, excise and service tax - collection target at Rs 5.05 lakh crore for the current fiscal, an increase of about 27 per cent from 2011-12 target. -PTI

No role in Bhushan's exit as DGCA, says Kingfisher MUMBAI: A day after the Aviation Ministry unceremoniously removed Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) E K Bharat Bhushan allegedly for his tough stance against crisis-hit Kingfisher Airlines, the Vijay Mallyapromoted carrier said it had nothing to with his exit. "Transfer of its officials is the sole prerogative of the government. It is highly incorrect to suggest that the transfer of DGCA Bhushan was in any way connected to Kingfisher Airlines," a statement from the private airline said. -PTI

Maharashtra bans gutkha, paan masala MUMBAI: The Maharashtra government has announced a ban on the production, sale, distribution and storage of gutkha and paan masala in the state. The decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, sources said. The ban on gutkha and paan masala (both flavored tobaccobased products) will result in revenue loss of Rs 100 crore per year for the state exchequer, but the decision has been taken in larger public interest, they said. Maharashtra has joined a handful of states, among them Kerala and Madhya Pradesh, to ban gutkha, blamed for oral diseases such as cancer. -PTI

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1984 anti-Sikh riot: SC stays proceedings against Sajjan Kumar NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court stayed the trial court proceedings against senior Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in a 1984 anti-Sikh riot case. A bench of justices P Sathasivam and B S Chauhan directed the lower court not to proceed with the case till July 27 when the Delhi High Court is likely to take up Kumar's plea for allowing him to cross examine the witnesses whose statements before various commissions are being used by the CBI against him. -PTI

NRI community leader pitches for joint fight against terrorism HEMA TRIVEDI India Post News Service

MUMBAI: A front ranking NRI community leader from Chicago and Chairman of National Indian American Coalition (NIAC) Shalabi Kumar was in India meeting top brass from major political parties to create awareness for forging closer relationship between USA and India to meet global terrorist threats. He met with the leaders of both BJP and Congress to make them aware of the efforts of NIAC to forge a better relationship between US and India, particularly in their fight against global terrorism. Last month, Kumar called on Chief Minister Modi at his residence in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, and gave a NIAC presentation and discussed its progress. He thanked Modi on behalf of Congressman Joe Walsh for taking time to speak to him on the Gujarat Day. The two also discussed the issue of US government's past decision on Modi's travel to US.

Shalabi Kumar with (from top left clockwise) Ravi Shankar Prasad, Chief Spokesperson of BJP; Nitin Gadkari, BJP President; Manish Tewari, Congress party MP am Mr Vijay Jolly, Overseas BJP Convener (immediately to Mr. Kumar's right)

Modi took the opportunity to thank the hundreds of thousands of his well wishers and followers

Manav Kalyan Trust recognized

Minister Fakirbhai Vaghela presenting Award to Nilesh Shah of Manav Kalyan Trust

RUCHIT SHAH India Post News Service

ate Shri Maheshbhai Kothari's organization Manav Kalyan Trust Navsari recently got an award for its outstanding contributions in the fields of education and training at

the hands of Gujarat Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Fakirbhai Vaghela. The award is specifically for imparting education and training as offering services to persons with disability. Shri Nilesh Shah, Executive Trustee, received the award on behalf of the Trust at Ahmedabad in Gujarat.

in the US for the support they extend to him. Chief Minister Modi also agreed to host a Congressional delegation led by Congressman Peter Roskam, Dy. Chief Whip, to visit Gujarat. Subsequently Kumar, along with Vijay Jolly, BJP Convener Overseas Affairs, met BJP President Nitin Gadkari at his residence. Gadkari pledged support to US non- resident Indians' global fight against terrorism. Kumar invited Gadkari to visit the United States this year as a guest of NIAC and to meet with US Congressional Leadership. Gadkari gracefully accepted the invitation. With more than three million Indian Americans in the US enjoying relatively high level of per capita income compared to any other ethnic group in the country, NIAC has started an intense effort with the US Congress to reduce or cut off US foreign aid to Pakistan. NIAC has the support of more than 20 key US Congressmen and Senators in his this bid. So far, the annual aid of US $4 billion per year has been cut by half. Kumar was a member of President Reagan's Business Advisory Council in the early eighties. He has deep love for India, his moth-

erland and promotes causes important to Indian Americans at Capitol Hill. NIAC's board consists of highly respected foreign policy experts in the US, such as Stephen Yates, Former Deputy National Security Advisor to Dick Cheney.

Last month, Kumar called on Chief Minister Modi at his residence in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, and gave a NIAC presentation and discussed its progress. He thanked Modi on behalf of Congressman Joe Walsh NIAC is holding a first of its kind event billed as 'Coffee with Congress' on August 1 at the Capitol building in Washington, DC. It is expected to be attended by Who's Who of Indian Americans as well as more than 50 US Congressmen and Senators. The purpose of the event is to educate the US Congress on issues related to Pakistan supported global terrorism.

Tech News Infosys Q1 net rises 32.92% at Rs 2,289 crore MUMBAI: India's second largest software firm Infosys reported a 32.92 per cent jump in consolidated net profit to Rs 2,289 crore for the first quarter ended June 30, 2012. The company had posted a net profit of Rs 1,722 crore for the April-June quarter of the previous fiscal (2011-12), Infosys said in a filing to the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE). Reacting to the results, the scrip of Infosys tumbled 9.42 per cent to Rs 2,233.95 at the BSE from its previous close since it failed to meet its dollar revenue guidance and also cut its dollar forecast for FY 2013.-PTI

Aus working to ensure uranium supply to India PHNOM PENH: Months after reversing its policy of not selling uranium to India, Australia has said it was in the process of working out internal arrangements to ensure supply of the yellowcake to New Delhi. Australian Foreign Minister Bob Carr conveyed this to External Affairs Minister S M Krishna during their talks here in the Cambodian capital on the sidelines of the ASEAN Ministerial meeting. "As you are aware, Labor party had earlier decided to reverse its policy and supply uranium to India. Mr Carr informed the External Affairs Minister that they are in the process of working out internal arrangements which will enable them to give effect to this policy of the Labor Party and as a government they will finalize this (arrangement) and come to India shortly with the draft," MEA Spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin said.-PTI

Fitch retains 'AAA' rating for US; outlook negative WASHINGTON: Fitch has maintained the top notch 'AAA' rating on the United States even as it maintained the credit outlook at negative citing risks associated with political disagreement over ways to reduce ballooning deficit. 'AAA' is the highest investment grade rating. The global rating agency said affirmation of the coveted rating was on account of its highly productive, diversified and wealthy economy.-PTI

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YouTube to launch French web TV channels

ouTube will be launching several French web TV channels by the end of this year. According to a report in the French daily, Le Figaro, Google France announced that YouTube will be launching 13 free channels. The channels will cover various genres including entertainment, cooking, family, culture and health. The report also added that YouTube has launched a call for bids among French content houses and producers. Those who have shown an interest in the bids include producers like Endemol, Kabo and Capa.

Govt looking at 'genuine concerns' of foreign retailers: Sharma ACCRA, Ghana: Hinting at a possible relaxation in sourcing norms for FDI in single brand retail, Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma has said "genuine concerns" raised by investors need "to be looked at very carefully". "There are some genuine concerns, which investors have made ... we are looking very closely at them ... that needs to be looked at very carefully," Sharma told PTI. The minister was referring to issues raised by Swedish firm IKEA, which proposed to invest Rs 10,500 crore to set up single brand retail stores in India, over conditions for the 30 per cent sourcing of products from micro and small industries. The furniture and home furnishing retail giant had asked the government that it must be allowed to continue sourcing from the small units even after the vendors have crossed the mandatory USD 1 million investment limit. Sharma said the government was looking at the concerns and demands of the global retailers like IKEA on the issue of mandatory sourcing condition from small industries. "IKEA is working very closely with different clusters in India like handloom and handicrafts. They are already sourcing from India. You have to recognize these things," said the minister, who was here for a two-day visit to inaugurate the 'India Show'. Sharma said that IKEA is already sourcing products worth Rs 700 crore from India but he added that it would be difficult for highend product manufacturers like watch makers to source from Indian small industries. As per the present single brand FDI policy, global retailers would have to source 30 per cent of their requirement from Indian small industries which have a total investment in plant and machinery not exceeding USD 1 million. In its application, IKEA had stated that if the group were to comply with this norm, such units would very soon outgrow the stipulated valuation (of USD 1 mil-

lion) and become large set-ups. When asked if the sourcing norms could also be relaxed in multi-brand retail, as and when global retailers are allowed in the segment, he ruled out such a step. "The 30 per cent sourcing from Indian micro and small industry is mandatory ... there is no compromise on it," Sharma said, adding

brand retail, Sharma said the process is going on and large number of states have supported the move. "There is a strong consensus with principal stakeholders and large number of states ... I have spoken and written to many chief ministers," he added. Sharma also said in order to take forward FDI in multi-brand

had put on hold the decision to allow global retail giants like Walmart and Carrefour to open stores in India. He said that key stakeholders like farmers and the consumers are badly impacted in the absence of adequate processing facilities, infrastructure resulting in massive post-harvest losses.

The minister was referring to issues raised by Swedish firm IKEA, which proposed to invest Rs 10,500 crore to set up single brand retail stores in India, over conditions for the 30 per cent sourcing of products from micro and small industries Anand Sharma

the interest of SMEs must be embraced in the policy. Several big global retailers in single brand and multi-brand sector have expressed serious concerns over the mandatory sourcing norms. Commenting on the progress on stakeholders' consultations for allowing 51 per cent FDI in multi-

retail, his ministry had written to five chief ministers already and would send letters to more. Besides, Sharma said he would also meet West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in order to bring consensus on the highly politically sensitive issue. Following strong protest from its key ally TMC, the government

"It is a national imperative to ensure that whatever is procured in the fields of the country, the farmers get remunerative prices. We have to attract investment for integrated value chain and assimilation of modern technology including cold chain infrastructure in various parts of the country," he added. -PTI

Indian business environment complicated: Singapore PM NEW DELHI: Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has said India's business environment is "complicated" for investors who want policy stability. "I think India's environment is complicated," Lee said at a luncheon meeting with India's industry leaders organized by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and Assocham. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 43

H. E. Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of Singapore (right) being greeted by Adi Godrej, President, CII during a business meeting in New Delhi on 11 July

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July 20, 2012

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Arunachal to get enough funds: Montek NEW DELHI: Unperturbed by Asian Development Bank's denial of loan to Arunachal Pradesh for a road project, the Planning Commission said the Centre would provide adequate funds to the state for approved projects. "That (ADB's denial of loan to state) will make no difference ... we will make sure from Central government resources that approved projects will be funded," Planning Commission Deputy Chairman Montek Singh Ahluwalia said after approving the Rs 3,535-crore annual Plan outlay of Arunachal Pradesh for this fiscal. Multilateral agency ADB signed a pact with the Indian government for providing loan of USD 74.8 million to improve connectivity in the North Eastern states, excluding Arunachal Pradesh. Under the road development project, a total of 433.7 km roads would be upgraded in six states of Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Sikkim and Tripura.

"... For the total Plan, Finance Ministry helps to get resources from different sides. Some of the resources come from one agency ... ADB, World Bank ... If those

Multilateral agency ADB signed a pact with the Indian government for providing loan of USD 74.8 million to improve connectivity in the North Eastern states, excluding Arunachal Pradesh agencies do not support a particular project, it does not mean that project would not get done. It just means that we will use our own resources for that," Ahluwalia said.

When asked about raising the issue with ADB, he said, "That is something finance ministry handles. I am sure, they will do that." On this issue, Arunchal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki said, "We are pursuing the matter with the Planning Commission and Central government for compensating (the state) from separate arrangement. We will not get (funds) from Asian Development Bank. But we will make some other arrangement." Ahluwalia and Tuki met here to finalize the annual Plan outlay for the Arunachal Pradesh for 201213. He appreciated the efforts of the state in accelerating development and catalyzing infrastructure development. During the meeting state was also appreciated for the improvement in growth rate which are better than the national average. -PTI

Strike fails to affect AI revenues, up 21 pc in Q1 MUMBAI: Despite the twomonth-long strike by a section of its pilots, the state-owned Air India saw its revenues rise 21 per cent in the April-June quarter. The Indian carrier's topline rose three per cent in June over the same period last fiscal, notwithstanding the fact that it operated a truncated flight schedule on the international network during the entire month, officials said. "Our performance has been good on several parameters, both on quarter-on-quarter as well as month-on-month basis. Our overall revenue rose 20.8 per cent in the April-June quarter

to Rs 2,900 crore, from Rs 2,400

The seat factor during the period also rose three per cent, the official said, adding that yield per seat shot up 26 per cent in June as ticket prices went up by about 10-20 per cent crore in the year-ago quarter," an official said.

Over 400 pilots of the now derecognized Indian Pilots Guild went on a strike on May 7. It ended on July 3. The strike had forced the management to operate only profitable routes, causing revenue loss of Rs 600 crore. The seat factor during the period also rose three per cent, the official said, adding that yield per seat shot up 26 per cent in June as ticket prices went up by about 1020 per cent across the board due to the holiday rush. The national carrier has a Rs 67,000 crore debt pile, including Rs 24,000 core accumulated losses. -PTI

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Indian business environment complicatedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 42

Singapore Prime Minister who is on a three-day visit to India said when investors take a decision they want stability and "they want to have reliable partner. They look at the prospect and possibilities. That's the way all businesses happen," he said answering a question on how to improve business climate in India. Some global industry associations and investors have expressed apprehensions over business environment in India following announcement of controversial General Anti-Avoidance Tax

Rules (GAAR). Besides, retrospective tax as in the case of Vodafone has also added to uncertainty among some investors. Asking India Inc to set up global base in Singapore, Lee said the countries have to "do a lot more to enhance bilateral relations". Already 4,000 Indian companies are currently operating in Singapore. He said the rate of corporate tax in Singapore is far less than in the US and UK, which has helped Singapore a favorite investment destination." We are in the process of setting of a board of investment to help investors in ex-

ecuting the projects," Lee said. Lee said that there was a need for increasing frequencies of flights between India and Singapore. Singapore has emerged as the most sought after destination for foreign direct investment by Indian companies, which invested over USD 500 million there, accounting for about a fourth of the country's total outward investment of USD 2.35 billion only in May. The two countries also have a bilateral free trade agreement which has helped the mutual commerce growing to near USD 20 billion. -PTI

India Post

Realty Tidbits

Real estate sector logs 7 private equity deals

MUMBAI: Real estate sector witnessed seven private equity investments (amounting to $162 million) during the quarter ended June 2012, according to the data from Venture Intelligence. The volume of investments was lower compared to investments in the same period last year. The January - March 2012 quarter 17 investments, as per data collated by Venture Intelligence. Morgan Stanley Real Estate's Rs 500 crore investments in Supertech's township project in Noida was the largest during June quarter. Supertech also attracted investments worth Rs 100 crore from US-based Walton Street Capital. Government of Singapore Investment Corporation (GIC) invested Rs 100 crore to enable listed real estate developer Brigade Group to buy land in Bangalore's Whitefield to develop a premium residential project, as per data collated by Venture Intelligence.

Macro-economic stability will ensure housing: RBI NEW DELHI: Against the backdrop of banks showing reluctance to provide loan to real estate, Reserve Bank has said it has been following a cautious policy to ensure sustainability and viability of the housing sector. "Our main focus is to maintain macro-economic stability. If there is macro-economic stability, if there is lower inflation, and if there is no asset price bubble, obviously interest rates will come down and houses will be affordable," RBI Deputy Governor H R Khan said at a National Housing Bank event here.

Real Estate 44

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Noida, Greater Noida Metro line approved NOIDA: Nearly four months after the government in Uttar Pradesh changed hands, the three development authorities - Noida, Greater Noida and Yamuna Expressway - held their long-awaited board meetings. Metro connectivity remained the focus of Noida Authority at its 176th board meeting. Apart from approving the DPR for a Metro extension between Kalindi Kunj and Botanical Garden, Noida Authority also gave its nod to a 7km link to Noida Extension.

Tips to save money on home renovations DEBORAH ABRAMS KAPLAN

et's face it: Home renovations can be expensive. It's tough nowadays to find the kind of money it requires, but you may not need to put off those upgrades. Other Americans aren't. There's been a 17 percent increase in kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects over the past two years, according to a recent survey from the National Association of Home Builders. Other popular projects, according to the survey, are replacing windows and doors, repairing property damage, and adding rooms. If you want to start your dream renovation project, you can do so by finding creative ways to work within your budget. One of the best ways to save is being flexible in your design. It's not hard to find stores carrying discontinued, overstock or unneeded specialordered items, and that can mean big savings for you. Leah Ingram, founder of SuddenlyFrugal.com, saved 50 percent on her patio pavers by shopping at a store that was closing. "It may limit your color or what you're able to do with design," she says, "but for us, price was more important." Here are some other ways to save when renovating your home. Buying lights, tile, faucets and even appliances online can make sense, but know what you're getting and don't let delivery costs eat up the savings. The pros: You can save hun-

dreds of dollars on an item by searching online for the best price using the model number, says Dan Fritschen, author of "Remodel or Move? Make the Right Decision." Make sure to include shipping

problem," says Ingram. "I'd feel much more comfortable buying that stuff in person." Keep in mind: If you want to buy online, do it far in advance, says Fritschen. It could arrive dam-

Buying lights, tile, faucets and even appliances online can make sense, but know what you're getting and don't let delivery costs eat up the savings costs, he adds. The cons: If you haven't seen the item in person, it may look different than its online photo. And if it's not what you want or is damaged, returns can be a hassle. "My issue with buying stuff online for home renovation is if you have a

aged or delayed. "Delaying your remodel to save $100 is typically not a savings," he says. Also make sure you know the store's return policy and customer service availability before buying. Are you buying a lot of tile for your bathroom? Ask for a volume

discount. Think outside the box: Get more customers for the vendor, and use that to wrangle a lower price. When Ingram installed a new fence, she contacted interested neighbors. "By getting more business for the fence company, we were all able to get a discount," she says. The pros: "If you are friendly and considerate, oftentimes you can get a small discount of up to 10 percent," says Fritschen. If you're not comfortable with being nice and asking for a discount when hiring a contractor, just be upfront and say, "This is what I want to get done, and this is my budget. How can you work with me?" says Ingram. An interested contractor will offer creative ways to save money, such as sourcing closeout products or leaving easier jobs for you to do. The cons: The worst the vendor can do is say "no." Keep in mind: Offering to pay cash could also snag you a discount, says Julia Scott, founder of BargainBabe.com. Negotiate appliance purchases like you would a car. Ask if the salesperson can do better, or suggest what you want to pay, especially for a slightly damaged item or last year's floor model. Ingram was able to get a new stainless steel dishwasher and side-by-side refrigerator for less than $1,000. Cont’d on page 45

Adarsh housing scam hits realty projects

darsh, which in Sanskrit means "ideal", was the name conniving bureaucrats and politicians chose for a residential block they built on very expensive land grabbed illegally from the defense department in south Mumbai. While the officers, politicians and army officers involved are in the dock and may pay for this with a spell in jail, its impact has been far reaching and affected millions of people in Mumbai. Here's how - since this hit the headlines government officials have been wary of approving any real estate projects for fear that a whistleblower may in future find out a discrepancy leading to court proceedings and punishment. No Dip in Prices Real estate consultancy Knight Frank in a report said only 55,000 apartments were

available for purchase in Mumbai in the financial year ended March 31, 2012, compared with 92,000 flats in the previous year. This resulted in apartment prices holding up to their current levels despite lack of demand. The report said only 45,000 flats

fallen by 25%. Assuming an average ticket size of Rs 1.5 crore, a decline by a fourth on 80,000 flats would amount to an astounding sum of Rs 30,000 crore. That's the kind of financial loss the Adarsh, or ideal, conspirators have caused

Typically, 15-20% of the sale price of flats has to be paid by developers in Mumbai to town planning, municipal, government officials and gangsters. So, if you have just bought a flat worth Rs 1 crore, its actual price should have been Rs 80 lakh were sold in the year started April 1, 2011 as against the annual average of 80,000. This was mainly due to high prices and interest rates. Typically, in a supply-demand scenario of this kind, apartment prices would have

to home buyers in Mumbai just so they could each get a property worth Rs 30-40 crore. If the legal system punished this kind of crime with a pay for the loss caused principal rather than a free stay at a government facility, how much would each of those convicted have to

pay back to the city of Mumbai? Venality Inc Even if Adarsh hadn't happened, the state's corrupt government officers and political masters would have to enslave themselves and their future six generations to repay the kind of financial loss they cause to buyers of homes and offices in Mumbai. Typically, 15-20% of the sale price of flats has to be paid by developers in Mumbai to town planning, municipal, government officials and gangsters. So, if you have just bought a flat worth Rs 1 crore, its actual price should have been Rs 80 lakh. The 20% additional charge has been passed on to you. Any peon in a town planning office would have assets worth Rs 5 crore, midrange officials between Rs 50 crore and Rs 100 crore and top guns at Rs 500 crore - Rs 1,000 crore.

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'Take care of open plots by banning caretakers' MUMBAI: If the BMC's controversial caretaker policy is resurrected, then Mumbai would have even less than 1.1 square meters of open space per person, a ratio that is abysmal when compared to London's 31 sq m and New York's 26 sq m. An exhibition at the Nehru Centre estimates that Mumbai has around 14 sq km of un-encroached gardens, parks, recreation grounds (RGs) and playgrounds (PGs). With a population of 12.4 million, this means there are barely 1.1 sq m of open space per person. The caretaker policy seeks to give RGs larger than 5,000 sq m to private parties to maintain in exchange for letting them commercially exploit 25% of the plot. This, the organizers of the Open Mumbai exhibition argue, would bring down the ratio of open space per person even further. NGOs like Citispace and the organizers of the Open Mumbai exhibition have called for cancellation of the caretaker policy. Open Mumbai has proposed that the city's new Development Plan and Development Control Regulations include provisions that disallow any kind of Floor Space Index (FSI) from being given for gardens, parks, RGs and PGs. FSI dictates the amount of construction that can be undertaken on a plot. The proposal is for only guard rooms,

gardening rooms and toilets to be allowed on open spaces, and even then in a curtailed manner. (See 'Deny FSI'.) The exhibition's organizers say that the city's kitty of 14 sq km of open spaces - 19 sq km if encroached grounds are included - would dramatically improve if a networking plan is in place. The network would link traditional gardens, parks, RGs and PGs to smaller gardens

and our vast natural assets into welcoming gardens and parks," says architect P K Das, one of the exhibition's organizers. "Gardens and parks should not necessarily be decorative, manicured and barricaded. They should be open. They are for leisure and enriching community life. They are great spaces for community interaction, nurturing community relationships. There-

Shabana Azmi used her MP funds and asked Das to design the garden. After planting trees, making walking tracks, installing benches and so on, the park is now one of the most frequented ones in Juhu. "So bad was the condition of the garden that civic officials along with the BMC chief, visited the place when the beautification was taken up" and parks built around nullahs, roads and other natural assets. In this manner, the number of open spaces would increase and community life would get a boost. Currently, only 0.5% of Mumbai's land (or 2.5 sq km) is reserved for gardens and parks, according to figures displayed by the Open Mumbai exhibition. "We need to turn all marginal open spaces along nullahs, roads, transportation links, public buildings

fore, they should be interlinked with other public spaces in the area." Das says the current mentality is to keep gardens and parks exclusive. Aside from creating new gardens, present gardens should be upgraded, and without land being given away for commercial exploitation. A case in point is Kaifi Azmi Park in Juhu. Until seven years ago, it was a wasteland inhabited by bootleggers and auto mechan-

ics. It had an RG reservation, but there was no park in sight. Then Shabana Azmi used her MP funds and asked Das to design the garden. After planting trees, making walking tracks, installing benches and so on, the park is now one of the most frequented ones in Juhu. "So bad was the condition of the garden that civic officials along with the BMC chief, visited the place when the beautification was taken up," said Das. It was the same story with two other gardens languishing in Dadar - the Sant Dnyaneshwar Udyan and Baji Prabhu Udyan. "Both the gardens were maintained by the BMC but were in a state of utter neglect," says Das. "They were separated by a road. With BMC funding, we merged the two gardens and the result is one big garden, the Sant Dnyaneshwar-Baji Prabhu Garden." The garden boasts of several beautiful trees, a play area, walking tracks, etc. Nayana Kathpalia, convenor of Citispace, says it's a good idea to increase parks and gardens by developing land around water bodies like nullahs, rivers or beaches. "If the space is beautified, it serves two purposes: there would be no more encroachment and people would also be obliged to keep it clean. It's a good way of creating new public open spaces," she said.

Don't get carried away by the sample

he walls were beautifully done up, the fittings were exquisite and the rooms were very spacious. Vijayalaxmi Nayak and her family were so pleased with the look and feel of the sample flat that they immediately booked an apartment in the project by a reputed developer in Bangalore. The excitement died down when the Nayaks got possession of the house three years later. It was nowhere close to what they had been shown. The flooring used ordinary tiles, the fixtures were not classy and the wall finish was quite plain. "In the sample flat, the rooms looked so big and perfectly done up, but actually the size was much smaller, and the ceiling too was not of the same height as showcased," says Nayak.

There's very little that the Nayaks can do now because the sample flat has long been demolished and they have no photographs or documentary evidence of what it looked like. Even if they did, it would not have helped.

Chances are the developer had slipped in a clause in the agreement saying that it reserved the right to alter the specifications of the property. The Nayaks are among the legions of buyers who are routinely

5 tips to save money on home renovations Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 44

"Yes, the fronts of them were slightly dented, but you'd have to get down on your hands and knees to see it," she says, adding that her kids would have eventually dented the appliances anyway. Different towns, counties and states have varied sales tax amounts. You could save hundreds by shopping in a place with a lower tax. In New Jersey, for example, 37 towns qualify for an "Urban Enterprise Zone." In these zones, busi-

nesses can sell goods at half of the 7 percent sales tax rate. The pros: Any sales tax savings is an automatic price cut. "Drive to a county or state with a lower sales tax rate," says Scott. The cons: If an online store has no physical presence in your state, you usually won't get charged sales tax, Ingram says. This is true for all states except New York. Remember, though, that many states require you to list online purchases on your state tax return so they can collect in April,

says Fritschen. Keep in mind: Make your purchase during a sales tax holiday. States such as Georgia, Maryland, Missouri and Texas offer Energy Star sales tax holidays one weekend a year. See which states offer tax holidays at the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency. Even if there's no official sales tax holiday, some stores offer holiday or weekend promotions where they'll pay the tax, Ingram says. Courtesy Bankrate.com

taken for a ride by builders, who show them exquisitely designed sample flats. There's nothing wrong in this exercise since showcasing sample flats is a standard marketing practice. "It is an actively used marketing tool for attracting potential buyers and is more effective than brochures and websites," says Shveta Jain, director, residential, Cushman & Wakefield India. The problem is that, as in case of the Nayaks, the real flat turns out to be very different from the sample offering. What you get isn't what you see. The fixtures used could be very different from the designer sanitaryware you see in the sample. Atul Modak, vicepresident of Kohinoor City Project, admits that some developers use fixtures and furnishings worth almost 2-3 times the price of the flat itself. This lends a premium look to the flat, which could de-

ceive the customer. You cannot blame potential buyers for getting carried away by the looks of the sample flat. Builders have many tricks up their sleeves that give false impressions to the buyer. For instance, there are no doors between rooms in a sample, which makes the flat appear more spacious than it really is. Even the toilets and bathrooms are doorless. Some of the walls are merely glass partitions. Builders say this is done to allow buyers a better view, but the fact is that it makes the house look more commodious. The ceiling itself is much higher than that of the real flat. The interior designers hired by the builders to do up the sample flats are experts at creating optical illusions. They know how to use lighting and place furniture in such a way that the house appears bigger. Even the furniture is an accomplice in this charade.

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July 20, 2012

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Your Weekly Future by Pandit Parashar

JULY 20TH - JULY 26TH (November 23 to December 22)

(March 21 to April 20)

fforts made will bring desired results. You will have new clients and business will improve too. You will take time out from a busy schedule and take family on a short trip to a nice place you never visited before. Boss will make things little tough forcing you to look for new opportunity outside. You will develop taste for hot and spicy food.

xpenses will exceed your expectations and you may have to use your reserves to meet your commitments. You will be in touch with an expert to seek advice so that you may plan it better for the future. You may dispose off some stocks also and pull out the money. Some of you will be applying for a highly competitive job.

(April 21 to May 20)

o not ignore the health issues and handle all tools and machinery with extra care. It will be a very promising week as far as the money is concerned and you will lay your hands on some real easy money. Contract will be signed by other party without any changes. You will be excited about an upcoming move. You will buy some valuable gifts for family.

(December 22 to January 19)

ou may have to wait for some more time to launch your plans. You will have work hard and results will be lot less than expectations. You will be paying more attention to your health also. You will recover some money also but in part only. You will have to chance to spend some quality time with well known people and learn few things. (January 20 to February 18)

(May 21 to June 20)

t will be a relaxing week. You will also enjoy company of a new friend. You may write a small check to government also. Its time to have the eyes checked and get the new prescription. You will have the right words at your disposal and get several issues resolved quickly. You will get to spend quality time with some old friends.

his is the right time to strike as all the planets are aligned in good houses to help you out. Things you had been waiting for will happen now. You will make log term commitments this time. New opportunity will open doors for more money. You will be working hand in hand with some hard working people. Trip will relax the stress. (February 19 to March 20)

(June 21 to July 22)

ou may have to suffer because of a bad contract signed in the past. Idea of taking legal help will also cross your mind. On the other hand you will continue to do better on professional side. New opportunity will be a lucky break from stagnant life. Visit to coastal area or to lake will bring peace. You should try your luck with lottery.

ou will be selected among number of others for the job. Money will come but will not stay. You will again take time out of a busy schedule and take family out. You will get to meet many old acquaintances at the get together. You will need to renew an important lease agreement too. Mind will be at ease and you will get to enjoy your favorite food.

(July 23 to August 22)

Charming Ranveer is flexible and loves challenges

ome issues involving a child will cause stress in your mind. You may consult an expert to seek some insight and guidance. Deal will be good but you will be uncertain whether to take the risk at this point in life. People in partnership will be looking for ways to get out and be independent. You will be thinking of changing an old car.

(August 23 to September 22)

ry to work out a deal as going legal will be very expensive. You may invite few friends at your place this week. You may experience unexpected obstacles in what ever you try to do. Business will improve slowly and financially you will stay comfortable for the time being. Projects you have been working on will start bringing revenue soon. (September 23 to October 22)

ou will accomplish a lot this week. Planets are aligned in the right order to perform the miracle you had been waiting for to take place. All it will take is little initiative on your part. You may win big favors from a government official. You will spend some money on upgrading your home. Take care of health issue. (October 23 to November 22)

orcing your ideas can cause friction at home or with business partners. Money wise things will start improving from now an on. Do not believe an associate who's been spreading some negative rumors. Competition will reduce as one of the strong competitors will call it quit. You will be thinking of buying an investment property.

orn on July 6, 1986, Bollywood's rising star Ranveer Singh has real traits of a Cancerian. He is flexible and loves challenges and is surely a creative person. The always focused Ranveer hails from a non-filmi background. During his college days, he chose creative writing instead of acting and pursued his degree from Indiana University. But after returning to India, he retained his interest of acting and started auditioning for lead roles in Bollywood. Despite many failures and rejections, in 2010 he auditioned for YRF's Band Bajaa Baaraat and became a star overnight. Ranveer seems to have control over all his negative traits. He doesn't get furious when compared with another Bollywood heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor or when he is linked up with any of his co-stars. He has overcome his intolerance and is quite comfortable with people from varied backgrounds. Ranveer is a kindhearted soul. He has a heart of gold and wants to reach out to people. He often requests his fans or followers on twitter to help needy people. Having won the 'Best Male Debut' award in various award ceremonies, Ranveer Singh doesn't have any release in 2012 but his 'Lootera' slated to be released on March 2013, is most likely to be another blockbuster hit for this charming Cancerian.

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

925-833-7170

website: www.parashar.com

Datebook

48 India Post

July 20, 2012

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NEW YORK

NEW JERSEY

Upcoming

Fri July 20 • Hera Pheri Comedy Thriller Venue: Hindu Temple Auditorium, 143-09, Holly Ave, Flushing, NY Time: 8pm Contact: 646-397-3374

Fri July 20 • Art of Living Course Venue: Unitarian Universalist Church, 401 N Kings Highway, Cherry Hill, New Jersy Time: 6:30pm Contact: 732-668-8937

Sat July 21

Sat July 28

• Mela Teeyan Da 2012

• Shradhaa Foundation Annual Event

Venue: Golden Terrace Banquet Hall, 120-23 Atlantic Ave, New York Time: 11am Contact: 718-701-9363

Sat July 28 • The 2012 MetLife South Asian Spelling Bee-NY Venue: Hofstra University Student Center, 200 Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY Time: 10:30am Contact: 848-248-4139

Venue: North Brunswick township High School Auditorium, 98 Raider Rd North Brunswick Township, NJ Time: 5pm Contact: 732-713-1419

Sun Sept 23 • Viva La Music Latina! Venue: Fire N Ice- NJ, 583 Ford Ave Fords, NJ Time: 8pm Contact: 732-417-1999

ILLINOIS

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Upcoming

Sat July 21

Fri July 20

• Gurdas Maan- Live in Concert

• Dil Ki Awaaz

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

Venue: India Kitchen Bar & Grill, 3872 Walnut Ave, Fremont, CA Time: 7pm Contact: 510-449-6283

Sun July 22

• Kathak Odyssey

• Wedding Bells 2012

Venue: Ashyana Banquets, 1620 75th Street, Downers Grove, IL 60516 Time: 5pm Contact: 847-985-9142

Sun July 29 • Mystic Legends: An Indian Dace Tribute to the Wisdom of the Ancients Venue: Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center, 150 W Wood St, Palatine, IL Time: 8pm Contact: 312-731-3969

WASHINGTON DC

Upcoming Sat July 21 • Tripadi Ganga Venue: Ashland High School Auditorium, 65 E Union St, Ashland, MA Time: 5pm Contact: 617-584-0758

Wed July 25 • World Jazz Group Natraj 25th Anniversary Show Venue: Regattabar, Charles Hotel, Harvard, Square, 1 Bennett St., Cambridge, CA Time: 7:30pm Contact: 617-395-7757

Venue: Hilton Hotel, 39900 Balentine Dr, Newark CA Time: 11pm Contact: 408-647-4697

Upcoming Sat July 21 • 2nd Annual Summer Sports Event Venue: Excelsior High School Auditorium, 15711 Pioneer Blvd, Norwalk, CA Time: 8am Contact: 805-328-3932

Sat July 28 • Pt. Chitresh Das performs traditional solo at the Sanskriti Festival in Pleasanton

Sat July 28 & Sun July 29

Venue: Amador Theater - Pleasanton,CA Time: 8:30pm Contact: 415-333-9000

• Sanskriti Music and Dance Festival

Sat July 28

Venue: Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Road, Pleasanton,CA, 94566 Contact: contact@sanskriti.org Highlights: Inaugural Musical Program, Opening Ceremony, Vilolin Recital, Santoor Recital, "Music Meets Bells", "Windows of The World", Documentary, Kathak Recital Classical Vocal & A Journey Through Thumris.

Fri Aug 3 • The Quest Unsaid Venue: CounterPulse, 1310 Mission St, San Francisco, CA Time: 8pm Contact: 877-297-6805

Sat Aug 11 • Gurdas Maan Live in Concert Venue: Center for the Performing Arts, 255, Almaden Blvd, San Jose, CA Time: 7pm Contact: 209-604-2543

Sun Aug 19 Sat July 28

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

• Comedy Superstars in USA

• India-Independence Day Celebration

Venue: Joseph Keefe Tech Auditorium, 750 Winter St, Framingham, MA Time: 6pm Contact: 781-365-1707

Venue: Sunnyvale Community Center, 550 E Remington Dr., Sunnyvale, CA Time: 11am Contact: 408-431-3524

• Babbu Maan-Live Concert Venue: Saban Theatre, 8440 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90211 Time: 7:30pm Contact: 714-412-0877

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

Fri Nov 2 • Spirituals to Funk Venue: Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St. Stamford, CT 06901 Time: 8pm Contact: 203-322-9862 Highlights: Dr John And 5-time Grammy award winners Blind boys of Alabama.

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

Philosophy

July 20, 2012

India Post

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uestioner: As I can see, there is nothing wrong with my body nor with my real being. Both are not of my making and need not be improved upon. What has gone wrong is the "inner bodyâ&#x20AC;?, call it mind, consciousness, antahkarana, whatever the name. Maharaj: What do you consider to be wrong with your mind? Q: It is restless, greedy of the pleasant and afraid of the unpleasant. M: What is wrong with its seeking the pleasant and shirking the unpleasant? Between the banks of pain and pleasure the river of life flows. It is only when the mind refuses to flow with life, and gets stuck at the banks, that it becomes a problem. By flowing with life I mean acceptance - letting come what comes and go what goes. Desire not, fear not, observe the actual, as and when it happens, for you are not what happens, you are to whom it happens. Ultimately even the observer you are not. You are the ultimate potentiality of which the all-embracing consciousness is the manifestation and expression. Q: Yet, between the body and the self there lies a cloud of thoughts and feelings, which neither serve the body nor the self. These thoughts and feelings are

SWAMI KRISHNANANDA

f we are to be happy, we have to find the centre of our being and a background for our thought by detecting or discovering this centre in the place where it is, and not in the place where it would appear to be. Generally, we try to discover this centre in outward circumstances and objects of sense. That is the reason why we are very busy from morning to evening throughout the day and pass our lives in this manner by judging ourselves in terms of objects and outer conditions, thus not discovering a perpetual common denomination of happiness. Though by a difficult adjustment that we make in our conscious life we seem to be satisfied, inwardly we are shaken and feel very miserable. When the wind blows, the branches of the tree shake violently but the root is not shaken; but if an earthquake takes place and there is a complete shaking of the root itself, then the tree will not survive. The outer circumstances may be like shaking leaves, but the inward part of our life should be like

flimsy, transient and meaningless, mere mental dust that blinds and chokes, yet they are there, obscuring and destroying. M: Surely, the memory of an event cannot pass for the event itself. Nor can the anticipation. There is something exceptional, unique, about the present event, which the previous, or the coming do not have. There is a livingness about it, an actuality; it stands out

and what is with me now shares in my reality. The past is in memory, the future - in imagination. There is nothing in the present event itself that makes it stand out as real. It may be some simple, periodical occurrence, like the striking of the clock. In spite of our knowing that the successive strokes are identical, the present stroke is quite different from the previous one and the next - as remembered, or ex-

gives momentary reality to the transient actuality. M: You need not say it is unknown, for you see it in constant operation. Since you were born, has it ever changed? Things and thoughts have been changing all the time. But the feeling that what is now is real has never changed, even in dream. Q: In deep sleep there is no experience of the present reality.

Where nothing lacks, what can give pain? Nisargadatta Maharaj

Things and thoughts have been changing all the time. But the feeling that what is now is real has never changed, even in dream

as if illuminated. There is the "stamp of reality? on the actual, which the past and the future do not have. Q: What gives the present that 'stamp of reality?? M: There is nothing peculiar in the present event to make it different from the past and future. For a moment the past was actual and the future will become so. What makes the present so different? Obviously, my presence. I am real for I am always now, in the present,

pected. A thing focused in the now is with me, for I am ever present; it is my own reality that I impart to the present event. Q: But we deal with things remembered as if they were real. M: We consider memories, only when they come into the present. The forgotten is not counted until one is reminded which implies, bringing into the now. Q: Yes, I can see there is in the now some unknown factor that

M: The blankness of deep sleep is due entirely to the lack of specific memories. But a general memory of well-being is there. There is a difference in feeling when we say "I was deeply asleep? from "I was absent?. Q: Is pain a cosmic fact, or purely mental? M: The universe is complete and where there is completeness, where nothing lacks, what can give pain? Excerpted from 'I Am That'

a stable root. If we are to be satisfied with ourselves, we should have a centre in ourselves, and not seek it elsewhere under conditions which are not under our control. To seek this center, to find this centre, to enter into this centre, has been our perennial effort throughout the day and night, and when it is discovered, it comes like a star-

with the nature of this centre in our self is the Dharma of our life. Our duty is our Dharma, and our duty is in consonance with our real nature. We have been defining Dharma, or duty, by transferring the character of this centre of ourselves to other aspects of our life which are workable and necessary

nance of our conduct with our own nature. We will realize on a careful analysis that the truth or the centre of our life is an indivisible unit, and not a ramified or distracted conglomeration or a composite. We are not divided in our own being. You know very well that you

The center of our life is an indivisible unit

Swami Krishnananda

tling revelation. It rises before us like the bright sun coming from the horizon; and like the mist vanishing before the rising sun, our difficulties vanish before the revelation of this truth. To find the centre in ourselves would be to seek the truth of our nature, which would be ultimately the truth of the nature of all people; and to be in consonance

The outer circumstances may be like shaking leaves, but the inward part of our life should be like a stable root. If we are to be satisfied with ourselves, we should have a centre in ourselves and yet do not exhaust the nature of truth. We have various kinds of duty such as social duty, duty to others, duty to Nature, duty to the Creator, and so on, which are extensions of the application of this law of our centre in terms of the nature of our perceptions, cognitions and appreciations in the world, while really it is a conso-

are an undivided centre in yourself. You cannot be divided or cut into parts because even if you are to be divided, your awareness of the division is undivided. You cannot be divided because it is the basic fundamental. If that can be divided, it cannot be the fundamental; there must be something behind it yet.

Some changes look negative on the surface but you will soon realize that space is being created in your life for something new to emerge. -Eckhart Tolle Great knowledge sees all in one. Small knowledge breaks down into the many. -Chuang Tzu To study the way of the Buddha is to study your own self. To study your own self is to forget yourself. To forget yourself is to have the objective world prevail in you. -Dogen Silence is the mother of everything that has come out from the Depth. And Silence kept quiet about what she was unable to describe: the Unspeakable. -Clement of Alexandria God, whose love and joy are present everywhere, can't come to visit you unless you aren't there. -Angelus Silesius Illusion produces rest and motion. Illumination destroys liking and disliking. -Seng -T'san

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July 20, 2012

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Kashmir: Why is the peace fragile? ZAINAB AKHTER

hough there have been numerous peace initiatives, what has remained constant in the Kashmir valley is the uncertain nature of peace. Peace in Kashmir remains fragile and even the smallest altercation takes a political or communal shade resulting in prolonged unrest. Why is the peace so fragile and unsustainable in the valley? Normal life in the valley came to a standstill on 25 June 2012 due to the fire that broke out at the Sufi shrine, Dastgeer Sahab in Srinagar. The Bandh called by the separatist faction paralyzed life across the state. Restrictions and undeclared curfew were imposed by the police, and paramilitary forces were deployed in large numbers across the city to prevent protests. Despite restrictions, stone pelting incidents and mass protests were reported from various places across the valley. The state government's decision to put the entire old city under undeclared curfew for five consecutive days and people's reaction to the incident have reiterated the trust deficit that exists between the state and the people. In recent years, there has been an increase in tourism in the valley indicating an improvement in the security situation. However, the tourism boom cannot be equated to lasting peace as the potential of seemingly unrelated small incidents snowballing into a full-fledged 'war for Azadi' has always remained. For instance, the Shopian incident - the rape and murder of two young women in May 2009 at Bongam, Shopian district - saw violent protests across the valley, with protesters accusing CRPF personnel of the rape and murder. In 2010, protests and ubiquitous stone pelting broke out across the valley due to the killing of a school boy, Tufail Matoo, and many young people lost their lives in the ensuing violence.

Reasons behind the fragility One major reason for the fragility has been the one-track policymaking in New Delhi, which has only helped to aggravate the situation further. The Union government has disconnected itself from the ground reality in Kashmir and relies more on 'expert opinions' from the corridors of power in New Delhi. It may be true that those taking the law into their own hands do not constitute a major section of

society, but their proliferation has put both the State and Union governments on the back foot. This fragility has been fueled by many factors particular to the valley, and among them AFSPA (Armed Force Special Power Act) which grants special powers to armed forces and the resentment against it in the valley is one. Chief Minster, Omar Abdullah and the Interlocutors report (three interlocutors were appointed by government of India to meet with the

in the political framework of the valley and they have a stronghold in the old Srinagar city, which is considered as the bastion of stone pelters. They play a fundamental role in fuelling the protests and stone pelting on the streets. They are not keen to talk about autonomy or any kind of economic packages for the state. During any unrest, the separatists call for a complete bandh, which sometimes continues for days together. They boycott any

India Post Churning in Congress

N Protests over burning of Sufi shrine, Dastgeer Sahab

civil society of J&K) submitted to the government of India also advocated the withdrawal of this act. Secondly, there is a lack of investment in the valley due to which there is a shortage of industries and private organizations. The state government cannot provide employment to the qualified youth resulting in massive unem-

The separatists are trying every trick up their sleeve to galvanize the public to create a state of chaos and uncertainty in the valley, and the tussle between the separatists and the Center is likely to continue for long ployment and underemployment .The unemployed youth end up doing some odd jobs with meager wages, and with frustration setting in, they become vulnerable to radicalization and are involved in stone pelting activities and other forms of mass protests. Thirdly, the separatists, both moderates and hardliners (profreedom groups), play a vital role

attempt by the central government to include them in the peace negotiations, the latest being the failed efforts of the interlocutors. The stone pelting in the Valley is multi-dimensional and is said to have large-scale monetary support from across the border. The separatists are trying every trick up their sleeve to galvanize the public to create a state of chaos and uncertainty in the valley, and the tussle between the separatists and the Center is likely to continue for long. Finally, the military strategy is not sufficient by itself to make peace permanent. Last year, the counter-insurgency strategists in the Union Home Ministry began deploying Central forces to pursue a clear, hold and build strategy in the insurgency-prone states. The objective was that the forces would clear the area of insurgents and thus pave the way for civilian development programs. Although a decline in the militancy related activities is visible in the valley, there is a dearth of developmental work. This strategy has not worked completely for the state of Jammu and Kashmir because peace in the state has remained unsustainable. They have partially succeeded in the 'clear' and 'hold' components, but have totally failed to implement the 'build' component of the strategy. The writer is Research Intern, IPCS.

ow that Salman Khurshid, India's Law Minister, has spoken out, will he get the boot? Nobody speaks against the Nehru-Gandhi first family, particularly in their fiefdom, the Congress party. But things seem to have gone so bad for the Congress, which heads the ruling coalition, that even the Time magazine has produced a cover story calling Prime Minister Manmohan Singh an 'underachiever.' The American magazine may not have said something revolutionary, for the same has been the refrain in Indian political circles for a long time. And to say that the government is "directionless" is not a matter of great perception. But when these words are used by a leading minister of the Government itself, there is need to wonder whether a churning has begun in the grand old party of India. Khurshid's remarks on the capability of the so-called next generation leader Rahul Gandhi are also not novel. Everybody knows it, even within the Congress. But for a partyman to say that Rahul Gandhi is not providing any ideological leadership and that he has confined himself to a few "cameos" is to seriously question the potential of any leadership quality in the greatly overrated son of Rajiv and Sonia Gandhi. The biggest crime of the Gandhi family is silence. They have been elected to rule over one of the largest countries but are unable to cope, continuing to function with old style leadership of rewarding loyalty and winking at corruption. There has hardly been an issue of importance on which the mother-son duo has articulated their views. In these days of TV exposure, silence gives the impression of defensiveness, of trying to hide something. And silence when things are not working out becomes oppressive. This is the feeling that Salman Khurshid must have been suffering from when he spoke out in an interview to Indian Express newspaper. Instead of the fate of India, which nobody bothers about, the media is now speculating about the fate of Salman Khurshid. He seems to have retracted his words and sought to put a positive spin to them by claiming they were designed to motivate the youth. If action is taken against him, it would mean the charge that nobody can speak up against the ruling family would be substantiated. If no action is taken against him then the charge he has laid at the door of the leadership will stay and would be believed to be true. In either case the reputation of the first family has been sullied. That the Congress is vulnerable is becoming apparent to many MPs and MLAs now likely to vote in the presidential election. They may belong to different political parties but there are wheels within wheels in politics. Some parties may not officially like to be seen to be opposed to the Congress but might give an undetectable nod to their partymen to vote according to their conscience. The BJP may itself be in doldrums but what the other contender for the post of President, PA Sangma, has been saying is putting some dynamic in the contest. Salman Khurshid is said to be a confidante of the Sonia clique. According to Sangma, his outburst might have been sanctioned by 10 Janpath. Otherwise, there should be a churning on in the Congress. A first family which cannot guarantee votes in the next election will find some hopefuls beginning to abandon the ship. Driving another nail, Sangma said the Congress is using Rashtrapati Bhavan as a dumping ground - sending there persons who are no longer useful but would perform the function of bailing out the ruling party in times of crisis.

July 20, 2012

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