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VOL 20, No. 1040
August 22, 2014
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INDIA CALLS OFF TALKS WITH PAK
NEW DELHI: Acting tough, India has called off Foreign Secretary-level talks with Pakistan and conveyed a blunt message that it was interfering in India's internal affairs by holding talks with Kashmiri separatists which was "unacceptable". Upset that despite being firmly told by Foreign Secretary Sujatha Singh that Pakistan has to choose between "India or separatists" for talks, its top envoy here went ahead with the meeting, India said." Therefore, under the present circumstances...no useful purpose will be served by the Indian Foreign Secretary going to Islamabad next week."
"Indian Foreign Secretary had conveyed to the Pakistan High Commissioner (Abdul Basit), in clear and unambiguous terms, that Pakistan's continued efforts to interfere in India's internal affairs were unacceptable. "It was underlined that the Pakistani High Commissioner's meetings with these so called leaders of the Hurriyat undermines the constructive diplomatic engagement initiated by Prime Minister Modi in May on his very first day in office," Spokesperson in the External Affairs Ministry Syed Akbaruddin told PTI.
Details on page 13
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Parades, flag hoisting mark I-Day in NY/NJ Details on page 10
'US has high hopes for Modi's vision, ambition' Details on page 8
Patriotic fervor grips Indians across globe Details on page 9
Indian docs, govt to share expertise
Shastri named Team Director over Fletcher
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Afghan Sikh stowaways 18 hrs in container
CONTENTS Bollywood ---------------------- 30-31 Classifieds ------------------------- 51
Details on page 8
Community Post -------------- 16-29 Date Book -------------------------- 47
INDIA POST SURVEY
Edit Page --------------------------- 54
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HealthScience Post --------- 32-35
This week’s question
Horoscope ------------------------- 52
Do you think calling off talks with Pak was right?
Immigration Post ------------- 44-46 Life Style ----------------------- 48-49
Last week’s result
Defense co-operation with US will benefit India? YES 73%
NO 27%
Philosophy ------------------------- 53
JOYFUL CELEBRATIONS: Grand Marshal Bollywood actor Ayushman Khurana and FIA Chairman Dr Romesh Japra wave to the crowds at the head of the colorful procession during the Festival of India Parade in Fremont on August 17. (Details on page 16)
Publisher’s Diary ------------------ 4 Real Estate -------------------- 38-39 TechBiz Post ------------------- 13-15 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 41-43
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or a lot of us with good intentions, often, finding the right cause to doing our bit by way of giving back to society is not easy. And more often than not, even if we do find a cause, we do not find the time to do more than perhaps write out a few checks. Still, there are many among us whose heart and effort are in the right place, to give back not only to their motherland, but actually make a huge difference in the lives of the needy. So, here are five individuals from New Jersey who found their calling in the cause of Indian farmers. They made their presence felt at last week's India Day Parade in New York City carrying the banner of their organization - i4Farmers - which has been formed with a mission to work towards engaging the society with farmers in India, to enable projects for sustainable agriculture and create a platform for NRIs to help farmers. i4Farmers is already working in Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, providing minimal financial help to widows whose husbands may have committed suicide due to losses in agriculture, as also helping them by sowing seeds through the year. They also help students to pursue education; adopt villages to help tribal farmers in sustainable farming; and promote organic farming. Farmer suicides are a blot on contemporary India that is trying hard to project an image of progress to the world at large. For a country that is still largely agrarian, it is shameful that it is not able to protect the hands that feed the country. With tens of thousands of farmers quitting every day, i4Farmers espouses another concern - that of farming going the corporate way, if the farming community is not protected and perpetuated. While the merits or demerits of corporate farming are highly debatable, especially in a country like India, it might be a good idea for those of us with good intentions to consider contributing to this cause. And if for no other consideration, then - as i4Farmers puts it - for the simple reason that we all eat.
Romesh K Japra rkjapra@indiapost.com
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HIGHLIGHTS Bollywood: Rani rajya Rani Mukherji says she does not want her director-producer husband Aditya Chopra to direct her ever
Cover Story: Talks with Pak off Despite being told that Pakistan has to choose between "India or separatists" for talks, its top envoy met separatists
Community: Festival of India Fremont was alive with dancing, singing and flag waving as the community held its annual Festival of India and Parade
Loss to India The Indian economy could lose USD 30 billion annually if the Immigration Bill before the US Congress becomes a law
Life style: Buy memorabilia Some of the most coveted items of the bygone and present-day era of Indian cinema are to be auctioned
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Howitzers deals off India has told the US that in view of the price increase, it cannot go ahead with procurement of howitzers for the Army
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August 22, 2014
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India calls off talks with Pakistan NEW DELHI: Acting tough, India has called off Foreign Secretary-level talks with Pakistan and conveyed a blunt message that it was interfering in India's internal affairs by holding talks with Kashmiri separatists which was "unacceptable". Upset that despite being firmly told by Foreign Secretary Sujatha Singh that Pakistan has to choose between "India or separatists" for talks, its top envoy here went ahead with the meeting, India said." Therefore, under the present circumstances...no useful purpose will be served by the Indian Foreign Secretary going to Islamabad next week." "Indian Foreign Secretary had conveyed to the Pakistan High Commissioner (Abdul Basit), in
clear and unambiguous terms, that Pakistan's continued efforts to interfere in India's internal affairs were unacceptable. "It was underlined that the Pakistani High Commissioner's meetings with these so called leaders of the Hurriyat undermines the constructive diplomatic engagement initiated by Prime Minister Modi in May on his very first day in office," Spokesperson in the External Affairs Ministry Syed Akbaruddin told PTI. Singh was to travel to Islamabad on August 25 to hold talks with her Pakistani counterpart Aizaz Chaudhry, nearly two years after the Indo-Pak talks were stalled due to incidents along the LoC. "At a time when serious initiatives were being undertaken by
the Indian Government to move bilateral ties forward, including towards the resumption of a regular dialogue process, the invitation to so-called leaders of the Hurriyat by Pakistan's High Com-
‘The invitation to so-called leaders of the Hurriyat by Pakistan's High Commissioner does indeed raise questions about Pakistan's sincerity, and shows that its negative approaches and attempts to interfere in India's internal affairs continue unabated missioner does indeed raise questions about Pakistan's sincerity, and shows that its negative approaches and attempts to interfere in India's internal affairs continue
Cancellation unfortunate, say separatists SRINAGAR/NEW DELHI: Separatists from Kashmir have expressed surprise over India's decision to cancel the proposed Foreign Secretary-level talks with Pakistan saying it was "unfortunate" and would only ensure that the stand-off between the two countries continued. Hurriyat Conference Chairman Mirwaiz Umer Farooq told PTI that the decision was "very very unfortunate as we expected that the process of dialogue had opened and both the governments in India and Pakistan will work together for resolving the Kashmir issue".
unabated," the Spokesperson said. The only path available to Pakistan is to resolve outstanding issues through a peaceful bilateral dialogue within the framework
The Mirwaiz said there was no harm in meeting of the separatist leadership with the Pakistan envoy. "We only convey our views and this is not the first time that such an exercise has been conducted. "Such meetings had taken place during the tenure of Separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani leaves Atal Bihari Vajpayee after a meeting at Pakistan High Commission in and Manmohan New Delhi on August 19 Singh as Prime Ministers. So what is the hue and cry tween the two countries. "For the last two decades, we about this time?" have been meeting all visiting Pahe said. JKLF Chief kistani dignitaries and High Yaseen Malik Commissioners. What is new in also expressed this? Does the government of Insurprise over the dia really want to find peace in decision of India the sub-continent or not, one and said "it is wonders!" he said. Democratic Freedom Party most unfortunate. After many leader Shabir Shah, who met Pakiyears of chill, we stan High Commissioner Abdul expected some Basit, said the decision to cancel warmth in the re- the talks did not augur well for the lations between sub-continent. "We expected that Prime Minthe two counister Narendra Modi was willing tries." He also spoke to solve all issues including Kashabout earlier mir. His move to invite Pakistan meetings being Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for held by the sepa- oath-taking ceremony, which was ratists with vis- responded to with equal enthusiiting Pakistani asm, was seen as a silver lining in leaders and en- the dark clouds over Kashmir...but voys ahead of this move of cancelling the talks JKLF chief Yasin Malik arrives to meet Deputy High any bilateral will only contribute to confuCommissioner of Pakistan at the country’s High Commission in New Delhi on August 19 meeting be- sion," he said. -PTI
and principles of the Shimla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration, he said. "Therefore, under the present circumstances, it is felt that no
useful purpose will be served by the Indian Foreign Secretary going to Islamabad next week. Foreign Secretary's visit to Islamabad for talks on 25 August stands cancelled," the Spokesperson said. Ahead of talks in Islamabad, Basit had invited separatist leaders from Kashmir "for consultations" here. Pakistan envoys have in the past too talked to separatists from Kashmir before any major diplomatic initiative with India. However, Islamabad broke off from this tradition when Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif visited India to attend the swearingin ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May this year. PTI
Cancellation of FS talks 'setback' to ties: Pak ISLAMABAD: Describing the cancellation of Foreign Secretarylevel talks as a "setback" to IndoPak ties, Pakistan has defended its consultations with Kashmiri separatists, saying it was a "longstanding practice" to hold such meetings prior to bilateral parleys. "The Indian decision is a setback to the efforts by our leadership to promote good neighborly relations with India," the Pakistan Foreign Office spokesperson said in a statement. "It is a long-standing practice that, prior to Pakistan-India talks,
meetings with Kashmiri leaders are held to facilitate meaningful discussions on the issue of Kashmir," the Pakistan Foreign Office Spokesperson said. Stressing that Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has clearly articulated the vision of peace and development, the statement said it was in this spirit that the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend his inaugural ceremony was accepted. The meeting between the two Foreign Secretaries was scheduled at the directive of the two Prime Ministers, it said.-PTI
Cancellation on flimsy ground, says PDP SRINAGAR: The meeting be- High Commissioner and Hurriyat tween Pakistan High Commis- leaders is nothing new and it is a sioner and Hurriyat leaders is a very flimsy ground for shelving "very flimsy ground" for the gov- bold initiative that was taken by ernment to shelve its bold initia- BJP government in resuming diptive of resuming diplomatic talks lomatic talks with Pakistan," the with Pakistan, PDP has said. . Expressing her dis- Mehbooba Mufti said the appointment, PDP cancellation was a highly president Mehbooba negative development that Mufti said the cancellation was a highly nega- casts a shadow on the attive development that mosphere of reconciliation casts a shadow on the atmosphere of recon- generated by the invitation ciliation generated by to Nawaz Sharif the invitation to Nawaz Sharif for the swearing in cer- Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) emony of Prime Minister Narendra chief said in a statement here. Modi. "The meeting between Pakistan Cont’d on page 6
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Pak move on separatists provocative: Jaitley AMRITSAR: Slamming Pakistan, Defense Minister Arun Jaitley has said the "provocative" act of talking to Kashmiri separatist leaders and "deliberate" border ceasefire violations clearly show that the neighboring country and "powers within" it do not want normal relations with India. He asserted that it was for Pakistan to choose what kind of relationship it wants with India. "It is clear that there is deliberate ceasefire violation from Pakistan side. Earlier, it was only on the Line of Control but now it is also on the international border,"
he told reporters after visiting forward areas of Punjab border with Pakistan. "It is obvious that Pakistan and the powers within don't want the ties between the two countries to be normal," Jaitley said. The Defense Minister also slammed Pakistan for inviting Kashmiri separatist leaders before the Foreign Secretary-level talks on August 25 which have since been cancelled. "With these kinds of provocative ceasefire violations and more seriously invitations being given to separatists to meet the Pakistan Arun Jaitley
Incoherent foreign policy, says Congress NEW DELHI: The Government's decision to call off Foreign Secretary-level talks with Pakistan evoked strong reactions from Congress which accused it of adopting "opaque and incoherent" foreign policy while BJP termed it as a "bold" move. Dismissing the Narendra Modi government's move as mere "theatrics", Congress spokesperson Anand Sharma said it is sending "confusing" signals vis-a-vis India's policy in dealing with Pakistan. He questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi for agreeing to hold talks in the first place in the face of "constant provocation" from Pakistan. "What prompted the Narendra Modi government to decide to
hold Foreign Secretary-level talks with Pakistan when there was constant provocation from that side through constant ceasefire violations," Sharma asked.
in foreign affairs." Congress Deputy Leader in Lok Sabha Amarinder Singh said Modi government should know that there are "no short-cuts to
Dismissing the Narendra Modi government's move as mere "theatrics", Congress spokesperson Anand Sharma said it is sending "confusing" signals vis-a-vis India's policy in dealing with Pakistan Sharma, however said "the dialogue was suspended long back. Why was it restored?...Why was India prepared to go to the negotiating table? The government has been following a knee-jerk policy
diplomatic processes". "The BJP-led government has learnt it in a hard way that there are no short-cuts to diplomatic processes particularly those having a long history," Singh said. -PTI
Fletcher sidelined, Shastri appointed Team Director NEW DELHI: Cracking the whip following India's shambolic Test series against England, The BCCI has sidelined coach Duncan Fletcher by appointing former captain Ravi Shastri as the Team Director while giving a "break" to bowling coach Joe Dawes and fielding coach Trevor Penny for the upcoming one-day series. Under pressure to act after India's disastrous performance in the Test series, the BCCI also appointed former players Sanjay Bangar and Bharat Arun as assistant coaches and R Sridhar as the fielding coach as it revamped the team management and the support staff. While Fletcher, whose contract ends in April 2015, will continue
as the head coach of the team, the shake-up is a clear indication that his wings will be clipped with
Ravi Shastri
Shastri taking over as the Director for the five-match one-day series beginning from August 25. This is not the first time that
Shastri has been appointed as a part of 'damage control' exercise. In 2007 after the World Cup debacle in the West Indies, the former India all-rounder was appointed as a 'Cricket Manager' for the tour of Bangladesh after Greg Chappell was sacked. "In culmination of the discussions among all the officebearers of the BCCI over the last couple of weeks, the BCCI has decided to avail the services of former India captain, Mr. Ravi Shastri, to oversee and guide the Indian cricket team for the forthcoming one-day international matches against England," a press release issued by the BCCI said.-PTI
High Commissioner, it is for Pakistan to decide what kind of relationship it wants with India,"
Jaitley said. Pakistan has been repeatedly violating the border ceasefire and called Kashmiri separatist leaders for "inputs" before the Foreign Secretary-level talks that angered India. During the last 10 days, there have been 11 ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops along LoC and IB in Jammu region only during the past 10 days. Jaitley said he visited the forward posts of the armed forces along the border and said, "Our jawans are fully prepared to respond to any ceasefire violations by Pakistan." -PTI
Cancellation of talks unfortunate, says US WASHINGTON: Describing the cancellation of Foreign Secretary-level talks between India and Pakistan as "unfortunate", the US has said what matters now is that both the countries take steps to improve bilateral ties. "It is unfortunate that planned talks between India and Pakistan have fallen through," US State Department Deputy Spokesperson Marie Harf told reporters. "We continue to support efforts by India and Pakistan to improve all aspects of their bilateral relations. And that is a position we will continue making clear to both parties here," she said in response to a question.
Harf said, "Irrespective of why either side says the talks were canceled, or why, in fact, they were canceled, what matters now is that both sides take steps to improve their bilateral relations. We've been very clear about that directly in conversations with both." Harf asserted that the US policy on Kashmir has not changed. "We continue to believe that the pace and the scope and character of any discussions on Kashmir are for India and Pakistan to determine between them. That hasn't changed and that will remain our position going forward," she said. -PTI
Cancellation on flimsy ground, says PDP Cont’d from page 5
"In spite of the realization that there is no alternative to dialogue between two countries, it is beyond comprehension as to what is achieved by such knee jerk reaction to routine events like the Pakistan High Commission to invite to separatists which has been a tradition for many years," she said. She said such meetings had taken place during the Congressled government and also during the previous NDA government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee. "If this could be tolerated then it makes hardly any sense for them now to be seen as provocative,"
she said. Mehbooba said Indo-Pak relations have become a "cat and mouse game" between BJP and Congress and both try to create hurdles in normalization process when they are in opposition. If Sharm-al-Shiekh was sabotaged by BJP, it is now the Congress which has taken it upon itself to subvert the Modi initiative for resumption of talks, alleged Mehbooba. "In the process, Jammu and Kashmir continues to suffer the hostility between the two countries and the people of the state obviously feel saddened," she said.-PTI
August 22, 2014
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'US has high hopes for Modi's vision, ambition' NEW YORK: The US has "very high hopes" for the vision and ambition laid out by Prime Minister Narendra Modi but the two sides should "temper" themselves on the timeframe by which the expectations from the new Indian government are met, a top American official has said. "...These are also early days in the new (Modi) administration, all of us need to be cognizant that this is an administration that is two and a half months old. Let us both set high expectations but also temper ourselves on the timeframe within which we want to see those expectations met," Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Nisha Desai Biswal told reporters here at the Foreign Press Centre on 'US Foreign Policy Priorities in India'. She said some important steps have been taken by the Modi administration and "some important signals" sent but these are just the "first steps". "The government needs to have a firm vision and a path forward but the rest of us need to have some patience with which we engage this new government on that path and certainly we have very high hopes for the direction, vision, ambition that Prime Minister Modi has laid out and what that means for India as
about a "shared prosperity" for the entire region that helps and benefits the economies not only of India but of its neighbors. "This is certainly something that President Obama has said that he very much supports and wants to strengthen and partner on. We are looking forward and not backward and we are engaging on that basis and we see an opportunity to engage with India in a very broad and wholesome way," she said. On hopes of any progress being made in the Indo-US civilian nuclear deal during Modi's visit to Washington, Biswal said she is not anticipating that something would necessarily happen on that front in time for Modi's visit. "I don't know if there is going to be something major by the time of the Prime Minister's visit but clearly the biggest and most pressing issue on trying to advance the civil nuclear cooperation is on addressing the liability issue. "We have heard some positive inclinations from the Indian side on trying to find the way forward," she said noting that so far there are not any specifics on what the way forward is or what the timetable is for achieving concrete results on the nuclear deal. "We want to work with our In-
On hopes of any progress being made in the Indo-US civilian nuclear deal during Modi's visit to Washington, Biswal said she is not anticipating that something would necessarily happen on that front in time for Modi's visit well as for the India-US partnership," she said. Biswal was responding to questions on what expectations does the US have as Modi heads to Washington later next month for the Summit meeting with US President Barack Obama. Biswal was asked if Obama's invitation to Modi to visit the White House after years of a visa ban implies that the US does not have any concerns about the Indian Prime Minister's "human rights record". "What should be taken away from the President's invitation to Modi is our great hope, anticipation and expectation of this partnership with this government and with this leader on the basis of the very important vision that he has put forward for India, a vision that is on inclusive and sustainable economic growth and prosperity for all Indians," she said. Biswal added that Modi has "gone a step further" and talked
dian counterparts and start those conversations and see how we can move forward. There is a great deal of eagerness on both sides to try to resume that conversation," she said adding that there has to be more focused and comprehensive conversation that brings together industry, government, legal experts to try to work through the pressing issues. "There is a desire on both sides to find a way forward. What remains is for the teams to be able to come together and figure out what that is, how and what the timetable is. I am not anticipating that it is necessarily something that will happen in time for the September visit (of Modi). (We are) looking for the path forward and not necessarily something that is happening in a matter of weeks." On the issue of India seeking more access to 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks accused David Coleman Headley, Biswal said the
US has granted access to India previously. "We are aware of the ongoing requests from Indian counterparts for additional access and that is something that is under discussion," she said adding that the US is "very committed" to working
that stability, security and prosperity of the war-torn country holds vital interest to India. "India has been an important partner and contributor particularly on the economic assistance (in Afghanistan) and we want to work with them on that," she said.
Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Nisha Desai Biswal
with India to bring to justice the perpetrators of the Mumbai attacks and to advance cooperation between India and the US to ensure that such attacks do not happen in the future. "Both countries have suffered great loss at the hands of terrorism and both countries have learned costly lessons that we are putting into place to better serve our people," she said. She said homeland security and counter-terrorism are another priority that both countries share and during the Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi, the two sides talked about the history post-Mumbai of intelligence sharing and technical training. They also discussed how they can deepen and strengthen cooperation. "There are specific and concrete steps that both sides are working on including reinvigorating the joint working group on counter-terrorism and creating a consolidated homeland security dialogue," she said. Biswal noted that there are specific tools and technology that India is interested in and the US is looking at "what we can do to create a technology partnership on homeland security that can help provide tools and technology to combat terrorism". "We will be working over the coming weeks to create some specific initiatives on these areas that can be launched. We certainly also expect that we will work very closely together with India in the region," she said. On Afghanistan, Biswal said
She said the US also looks forward to seeing how it can expand and build upon defense trade and technology initiative with India. On the economic front, Biswal added that the US is ready to partner with India to facilitate as much
collaboration as it can. "For India to be able to attract the kind of investment and cutting edge modern technology, it needs to address certain issues that inhibit that," she said. Biswal added that American companies are very eager to invest in India and they have some of the same concerns that Indian companies have with regard to protection of intellectual property, particularly as India becomes more "innovator and originator of content". "Having the appropriate safeguards will allow innovation economy to take root and flourish. We want to do that in the spirit of partnership and we are confident that we will be able to make progress in that area," she said. On whether the US would exert influence on India to curtail its economic activities with Russia, Biswal said the US wants India to have an "important, constructive and positive relationship" with Russia and China. "We do not see this as a zero sum. We think India will make its own choices based on its own interests...we will continue to make the case that we think Russia needs to abide by international norms and standards in terms of how it conducts itself with respect to Ukraine," she said. -PTI
Afghan Sikh stowaways trapped in container for 18 hours LONDON: Sikh men, women women, aged between 18 and 72, and children found in a shipping and 13 children aged between one container in Britain were fleeing and 12. persecution in Afghanistan and "They were in a bad state. Achad been trapped in the airless cording to a little boy they'd been compartment without food or wa- in the container for roughly 18 ter for 18 hours, their translator hours," said Mataharu. said. The container had arrived on a Sikhs, discovered at Tilbury truck at Zeebrugge 12 hours beDocks in Essex, east of London, feared they would have all died had It has emerged that there they remained inside for were 15 families inside the any longer without food or water, Kamaljit container, all from Kabul, Singh Mataharu, a who had made it to Europe Punjabi-speaking local man called in by the in a truck police to translate, told reporters. fore the people inside were dis"It was pitch black, without covered at Tilbury. any air. It soon became extremely "They'd been banging on the uncomfortable," he told ITV tele- container... they'd tried for hours vision. and hours for somebody to hear "Horrendous, horrendous, hor- their voices. They are thanking rendous. They suffered a lot," he God they are alive. Another 20 said. It has emerged that there minutes... all would've been dead were 15 families inside the con- in there," the translator said. tainer, all from Kabul, who had Earlier, footage of the group made it to Europe in a truck. showed at least 13 children, includA 40-year-old man died and the ing one as young as one-year-old, survivors included 13 men, eight were part of the group.-PTI
August 22, 2014
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Patriotic fervor grips Indians across globe BEIJING/CAIRO: Patriotic fervor gripped Indians across the globe as they celebrated India's 68th Independence Day, unfurling the tricolor and organizing cultural festivities to mark the occasion. In a first, the Indian Embassy in China celebrated the Independence Day with full complement of the attaches of Army, Navy and Air Force, signifying improved relations between the two Asian giants. As Indian Ambassador to China Ashok Kantha hoisted the national flag in embassy premises here, Captain Sushant Dam of the Indian Navy and Group Captain Ashish Srivastava of the Air Force joined the Defense attache Col. Iqbal Samyal to salute the tricolor. It was for the first time that the air and naval attaches took charge in the Indian mission in China. So far, the Indian mission had only one defense attache. Kantha read the Presidential address to a large gathering of Indian expats and their families who gathered here to celebrate followed by cultural presentations. In the southern Chinese city of
Guangzhou, Consul General K In Singapore, around 600 IndiThe High Commissioner Nagaraj Naidu hoisted the flag at ans from all walks of life braved hosted a mid-morning reception the Indian Consulate. an early morning shower to join for guests including Indian busiOver 400 Indian expats, mostly India's High Commissioner Vijay ness community leaders in Indian businessmen attended the Independence Day celebrations. While interacting with the businessmen, Naidu was surprised to hear that most are now focusing only raw materials from China while setting up their own manufacturing units in India. "This is very encouraging as we 68th Independence Day Celebrations held at Embassy of India in China have seen the Indian businessmen importing Thakur Singh for Independence Singapore. finished goods from China, espe- Day celebrations. In Egypt, India's Ambassador cially business hubs like As Singh unfurled the tricolor, Navdeep Suri hoisted the tricolor Guangzhou and Shenzhen now students from Indian schools in India House premises. setting up manufacturing units in sang the National Anthem and The event was attended by InIndia," Naidu told PTI. patriotic songs. dian Diaspora as well as some
Egyptian friends of India, who all sang the national anthem. After hoisting the flag, Suri read out the Presidential address. Stressing on bilateral relations, Suri said India is one of the top ten trading partners of Egypt and there is an active economic cooperation between the two countries with bilateral trade of over USD 5.45 billion in 2012-13. He also underlined special attention being paid to promote cultural interactions between people of the two countries. The Embassy is now preparing for the third edition of India by The Nile Festival, which was successfully held for the last two years, he said. Indian envoys across South East Asia hoisted the national tricolor with a large number of proud Indian nationals taking part in spite of it being a working day. In Bangkok, India's Ambassador Harsh Vardhan Shringla unfurled the flag at the Embassy premises and read out the President's address to the nation. Various Indian associations collaborated to put up a cultural performance cheered on by more than 500 people.-PTI
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Parades, flag hoisting mark I-Day in NY/NJ SUDHIR VYAS
NEW YORK: Mayor Bill de Blasio cemented his image as a mediator and a bridge between disparate communities on Sunday by attending the India Day Parade to celebrate the Indian Independence Day celebrations. The Mayor marched at the Parade, waving an Indian flag throughout his walk 10 blocks down Madison Avenue. Ranging from tennis player Leander Paes, actress Raveena Tandon, Bollywood star Sunny Deol, singer Daler Mehndi to television stars Arjun, Kamya Panjabi, Zarine Khan, Daisy Shah and Bhagwatacharya Devkinandan Thakur, the parade was star-studded. Bollywood stars' participation has been on a high over the years in this annual parade which has a street fair kind of atmosphere. Cultural programs by local artists and children's groups was also one of the main attractions with Desi stalls lined up around the arena, selling food and advertising products. However, in last few years, the organizers of India Day ParadeFederation of Indian Associations
Britain in 1947 featured dancers in traditional Indian garb, drum performances, and prominent members of the Indian community in New York. Jitendra Fadia, who marched in the parade, estimated that the event drew as many as 35000 to 40,000 attendees. The FIA parade is the largest parade celebrating India's independence outside of India itself. De Blasio applauded the Indian community for its dedication to education, its contribution to the cuisine in the city, and singled out Nisha Agarwal, city commissioner of immigration affairs, and Ram Raju, CEO of the city's Health and Hospitals Corporation for praise. At the end of the march, de Blasio presented the Indian Association with an official proclamation declaring Sunday, August 17 to be NYC Indian Parade Day. "Continue the great work you do for this community and New York City, and Namaste," de Blasio told the Indian Association. Earlier Sacramento Kings Major Owner Vivek RanadivĂŠ served as Grand Marshal for the Parade.
dia for his first international trip [to India] as commissioner." Sim Bhullar, the Kings' newest signing, also attended the parade with the Kings' owner. Bhullar is the first player of Indian descent to sign with an NBA team. Another India Day celebration was held in the premises of Hudson County Plaza in Jersey City where a large number of Indian community members had gathered in the morning, with patriotic fervor. The Indo American Cultural Society led by Peter Kothari also
held a flag hoisting event in Iselin. Top local businessmen and community leaders attended the event which has been held for the past 15 years by Peter. Members of the Moksha dance group presented dance based on patriotic songs and also Bollywood hits. Besides that Bollywood Beats, another musical group, also sang patriotic songs and the most noted and unforgettable one was `eh mere vatan ke logo' sung by legendary playback singer Lata Mangeshkar. Local community and political
leaders recalled the role of Indians in the growth of not only IndoAmerican relations but also in the growth of New Jersey and Oak Tree road in particular. The Indian Business Association (IBA) celebrated India's Independence Day with a parade on Oak Tree Road where almost 30,000 people attended. The parade, which ran through Oak Tree Road, began in Edison and ended at India Square in Iselin. The entire parade route spanned 1.4 miles and was decorated with American and Indian flags.
PM invites ideas for new plan body NEW DELHI: Taking a step further towards scrapping the Planhas faced criticism for hastily made-up floats that lack in imagination and class, catering more to advertising companies and products than showcase India and its rich culture. Most people who attend this event treat it as a family outing with dollops of Indian food to be savored on a summer day, with some tamasha thrown in. Patriotic fervor is usually high with Indian flags waved all along the parade route. The crowd comes in droves every year and this year was no exception. The chance to catch a glimpse of Bollywood stars, usually to be seen only on theater or television screens, was also an added attraction. The cavalcade celebrating India's independence from Great
The parade, which honors India's Independence Day, was broadcast in over 40 countries and reached over three million AsianIndians in America. RanadivĂŠ is the first Indianborn owner in NBA history. According to the Sacramento Kings, he was asked to lead the parade because of his contributions as an Indian-American that has enriched and inspired so many Indians in the United States and abroad. "No words can describe what we are experiencing here today. I can't express how proud I am that the Kings and the NBA were a part of this transcendent moment," said RanadivĂŠ. "I am also excited to announce that early in December, I will be taking our new NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to In-
ning Commission, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited ideas
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the Nation on the occasion of 68th Independence Day from the ramparts of Red Fort, in Delhi on August 15
from the people on the new institution to replace the plan body. The government also announced creation of a special open forum on the website mygov.nic.in for suggestions on the new institution. "We envision the proposed Institution as one that caters to the aspirations of 21st century India and strengthens participation of the States.... Let the ideas flow," the Prime Minister said in a statement. It said, "The Prime Minister has invited ideas from people on what shape the new institution to replace the Planning Commission can take." Addressing the nation from the Red Fort on Independence Day, Modi had said that the 64-year old Planning Commission, a vestige of socialist era, would be soon replaced with a new institution to address the current economic challenges and strengthen the federal structure.-PTI
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BAPS inaugurates Stone Mandir in Robbinsville SUDHIR VYAS
ROBBINSVILLE, NJ: The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir was inaugurated here on Sunday August 17 by Pramukh Swami Maharaj and senior Sadguru Swamis of BAPS. The inauguration of this traditional stone mandir marks the completion of the second phase of the Swaminarayan Akshardham complex that is currently planned for the site. The mandir is 133 feet long and 87 feet wide, comprising of 98 pillars and two domes (ghummats) 30 feet wide and 34 feet high. The entire mandir has been covered by a permanent structure to increase the structure's life and accommodate darshan and worship during the region's harsh winter. The Mandir is made entirely of Italian marble and was completed in three years at a cost of $18 million. This was made possible by the dedi-
cation and selfless service of professional volunteers, including engineers and architects, who helped to minimize the cost of the mandir. Devotees and well-wishers from across the world gathered on the Mandir's campus to celebrate its opening. Children frolicked on the grass holding their parents' hands; women in their bright saris held their breath as they saw the Mandir for the first time; elderly devotees raised their heads and bent their backs in awe to appreciate this traditional house of worship that would encourage a fresh undertaking of religious ritual and beliefs in the community. Also in attendance during the celebration were United States Senator from New Jersey, Cory Booker and US Representative from Maryland Steny Hoyer, U.S. Representative from Pennsylvania Mike Fitzpatrick, U.S. Representative from New Jersey Frank Pallone, Attorney General of the State of New Jersey, John Jay Hoffman and Indian Consul General Dnyaneshwar Mulay (New York). Speaking on the occasion, U.S. Representative Steny Hoyer said,
"This Mandir will surely not only be a place of worship, but a place of service. The saying, 'in the joy of others, lies our own" is translated here from words into action. As followers of this movement have done throughout the world for the benefit of millions and millions of people." "Today is truly a day of celebration. Today is a day that is not just good for this community or the state of New Jersey but indeed what you are doing is great for all of America," said United States Senator from New Jersey, Cory Booker. "I am so impressed. I am so impressed. Indeed, I give reverence to an extraordinary structure (the Mandir) which will stand in all of North America as one of the greatest places of faith we have but I am more impressed with the people of this community." The inauguration festivities, spanning over two weekends, included a yagna or Vedic ritual for world peace, an evening of cultural programs performed by children, Mahila Sammelan (women's culture program) and the murti pratishtan rituals or ceremonies to invoke the spirit of the deity's into the murtis or sacred images. Prior to the consecration ritual that took place on Sunday, after which the murtis were to reside permanently in their shrines, they were taken on a festive procession around the complex. Young and old lined up on the side of the road, some dancing in excitement, some singing, and others watching the murtis
and procession. These events infused a sense of jubilance into the devotionally-charged atmosphere. As the culminating event of these celebrations, the Mandir was officially inaugurated in a Vedic ceremony performed by
tures. Master craftsmen in India first meticulously carved each portion of Italian marble. As the individual portions were completed, they were brought to Robbinsville to be pieced together like a giant puzzle to cover every inch of the structure. The com-
‘I am so impressed. Indeed, I give reverence to an extraordinary structure (the Mandir) which will stand in all of North America as one of the greatest places of faith we have but I am more impressed with the people of this community, BAPS Swamis in the presence of Pramukh Swami Maharaj. It is the sixth traditional BAPS Mandir of its kind in North America. Symbolic of the rich traditions it will carry forward, the Mandir is a modern architectural marvel built in accordance with guidelines from ancient Hindu scrip-
pleted masterpiece showcases intricate designs that depict meaningful stories about heroism, sacrifice, and devotion. Pramukh Swami Maharaj is the inspiration behind this latest BAPS Mandir in Robbinsville. As the spiritual leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS),
he has not only established hospitals, schools, cultural exhibitions, and other wonders such as Swaminarayan Akshardham in New Delhi, Gandhinagar, and the mandirs in Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles and Toronto, but also has reformed the lives of millions through his personal touch and universal message. It is because of his guiding vision that, as an international charitable socio-spiritual non-governmental organization, BAPS enjoys an affiliation with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations. Today, BAPS serves the global community through 160 humanitarian activities in a myriad of areas such as education, environment, health, social welfare, disaster relief and culture. This is only possible through the dedication and devotion of its members and, in particular, the 55,000 volunteers spread over 3,300 centers worldwide.
Astronomers measure rare black hole WASHINGTON: Researchers, including one of Indian-origin, have accurately measured and confirmed the existence of an elusive black hole, 400 times the mass of our Sun, in a galaxy 12 million light years from Earth. Ranging from a hundred times to a few hundred thousand times the Sun's mass, these intermediate-mass black holes are so hard to measure and even their existence is sometimes disputed. Little is known about how they form. And some astronomers question whether they behave like other black holes. University of Maryland astronomy graduate student Dheeraj Pasham and colleagues succeeded in accurately measuring and thus confirming the existence
of - a black hole about 400 times the mass of our Sun in a galaxy 12 million light years from Earth. Co-author Richard Mushotzky, a UMD astronomy professor, said the black hole in question is a just-right-sized version of this class of astral objects. "Objects in this range are the least expected of all black holes," said Mushotzky. While the intermediate-mass black hole that the team studied is not the first one measured, it is the first one so precisely measured, Mushotzky says, "establishing it as a compelling example
of this class of black holes." "For reasons that are very hard to understand, these objects have resisted standard measurement
techniques," said Mushotzky. Pasham focused on one object in Messier 82, a galaxy in the constellation Ursa Major.
Messier 82 is our closest "starburst galaxy," where young stars are forming. Beginning in 1999 a NASA satellite telescope, the Chandra X-ray Observatory, detected X-rays in Messier 82 from a bright object prosaically dubbed M82 X-1. Astronomers, including Mushotzky and co-author Tod Strohmayer of NASA's Goddard Space Flight Centre, suspected for about a decade that the object was an intermediate-mass black hole, but estimates of its mass were not definitive enough to confirm that. Between 2004 and 2010 NASA's Rossi X-Ray Timing Explorer (RXTE) satellite telescope observed M82 X-1 about 800 times, recording individual X-ray particles emitted by the object.-PTI
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Tech News MedTech industry could touch $50bn: CII NEW DELHI: The medical technology industry in India, the size of which is just USD 6.3 billion at present, has the potential to expand to USD 50 billion by 2025 if it receives appropriate policy support from the government, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has said in a report. The medical technology sector covers medical devices, equipments and diagnostics that are used as part of healthcare services rendered to the patient. "To develop a clear roadmap for making India a global hub for the medical technology sector, we have prepared a vision document in partnership with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG)," said Pavan Choudary, Chairman of the Medical Technology Division of CII and Managing Director, Vygon India.-PTI
HCL Tech wins contract from Sydney Trains NEW DELHI: HCL Technologies, country's fourth largest software services firm, has bagged a deal worth about AUD 35 million (over Rs 198 crore) from Sydney Trains to support and maintain 107 of its business applications. Sydney Trains provides train services in the Sydney central business district and metropolitan area. It underwent a major restructuring and was formally launched on July 1, 2013, replacing CityRail as the provider of metropolitan train services for Sydney (Australia). "Under the contract, valued at AUD 34.9 million, HCL Australia Services will provide support and maintenance services for 107 business applications," a Sydney Trains spokesperson told PTI.
Indian company wins $14 mln contract in Egypt CAIRO: An Indian company has won a major USD 14 million contract for a World Bank-funded project in Egypt's power sector. "We are delighted that Dee Development Engineers have won another important contract for a World Bank project in Egypt's power sector," India's Ambassador to Egypt Navdeep Suri said. The Ambassador made the remarks after his meeting with Egyptian Minister of Electricity Mohamed Shaker following the signing of the contract with Indian Dee Development Engineers Limited (DDEL).-PTI
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Tata Motors Senior Vice President Girish Wagh speaks during the launch of Tata ZEST in Bengaluru on August 19
India may drop US Howitzer deal after price hike NEW DELHI: India has told the US that in view of the price increase, it cannot go ahead with the procurement of 145 ultra-light howitzers for the Army, which plans to deploy such artillery guns in mountainous terrain. During talks with US officials at the time of American Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel's recent visit, it was conveyed by India that it cannot go ahead with the deal due to the price hike asked for by the equipment manufacturer, Defense Ministry sources said here. Till early 2013, the deal for the M777 howitzers was expected to cost India around Rs 3,600 crore but due to the delay in finalizing the deal, the American side sought an increase of over Rs 300 crore in August last year. The sources said the US side has conveyed that the production line of the howitzers has been closed down and India will have to pay for its reopening and the costs may escalate further if there are more delays in finalizing the deal.
Under the procurement process, certain procedures have to be followed and it is difficult to justify a price hike in the middle of negotiations for the contract, they said.
the ULH guns through the US government has not progressed due to cost issues and because the vendor has not been able to come up with a proposal fully compliant to the offset requirements,"
Recently, Indian Defense Minister Arun Jaitley had stated that the deal has not progressed due to issues over cost of the deal and offsets requirements. "The case for procurement of
he had said. India and the US have been discussing the deal for the last several years to induct the howitzers into the Army, which has not bought a single artillery gun in the
last 25 years. The guns were planned to be bought from the US for deployment in high-altitude frontiers along with China and Pakistan and were also expected to be part of the newly raised 17 Mountain Strike Corps of the Army. The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) had in February asked the Army to review the plan for procurement of these guns in view of the increased price of the deal as the equipment manufacturers have hiked the cost of the proposed contract. The offsets proposal offered by the US firm was also not in line with the DAC benchmark, the sources said. The Army has been waiting for induction of a new artillery gun since 1980s after the Bofors gun scandal. The Ordnance Factory Board and Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) are also working towards developing indigenous guns for meeting the requirements of the Army. -PTI
DAE team to explore funding options in US NEW DELHI: Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit next month, a team of officials from the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) will travel to the US to explore funding options from Exim Bank for a nuclear power plant in Mithi Virdhi in Gujarat, which is to be built by American firm Westinghouse. Westinghouse is to build 6 reactors of 1000 MW each in Chhaya Mithi Virdhi. It is one of the two projects to come up in India after the signing of the Indo-US Civil Nuclear Deal--the other one being at Kovvada in Andhra Pradesh of equal size to be built by another US company General Electrical.
Government sources said a team comprising top officials of the DAE will leave to hold talks with Export Import Bank of the US. "Since Westinghouse is an
to explore funding options for the project, which may run into several thousand crores," said an official. The visit also assumes significance as it will send a signal
It is one of the two projects to come up in India after the signing of the Indo-US Civil Nuclear Deal--the other one being at Kovvada in Andhra Pradesh of equal size American company, the nuclear plant which is to come up in Gujarat with US cooperation is eligible for loan from the EXIM Bank of the United States. "This will also allow the DAE
to the US that India is serious about the project. The sources said that the Americans are not happy with the progress of the project. Issues like certain clauses of the
Civil Liability Nuclear Damage Act 2010 has been objected to by many foreign players. The Modi government has ratified the Additional Protocol of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), mandatory under the Indo-US civil nuclear cooperation which will put the civilian nuclear facilities under international inspection and scrutiny. This was also a signal that his government was committed to the promises made under the deal by the previous UPA government. However, the cost of the project still remains unclear as financial negotiations are still in the preliminary stages.-PTI
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Singapore to help India build 100 'smart cities' SINGAPORE: Having allocated over Rs 7,000 crores in its recent budget for development of 100 'smart cities', India has roped in Singapore for providing its expertise in this even as the two countries decided to step up economic engagement besides defense and security cooperation. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj concluded a hectic 24-hour visit here with an understanding with this city-state to identify concrete projects in skills development and rejuvenation of Indian cities which would include 'smart cities'. The concept of 'smart cities' as satellite towns of larger ones was enunciated in last month's budget by the new NDA government which has allocated a sum of Rs 7,060 crore for the ambitious plan. "Singapore's expertise in smart cities, urban planning and water management strategies offer a valuable learning experience for India. We shall work for setting up greenfield smart cities and for urban rejuvenation. Our experts shall identify the priorities and we shall coordinate its timely delivery," Swaraj said before leaving for New Delhi. Swaraj, who has undertaken visits to neighboring countries Bangladesh, Myanmar, Bhutan and Nepal in recent weeks, spent the day holding meetings with Singapore's leadership including Prime Minister Lee Hsein Loong and her counterpart K Shanmugam. She kicked off year-long celebrations to mark 50 years of establishment of India-Singapore diplomatic ties jointly with Shanmugam who noted that India was one of the first countries to
give diplomatic recognition to Singapore.
flourished in the last decade from USD 4.2 billion in 2003-04 to
around USD 19.4 billion in 201314, notably since the signing of
External Affairs Minister Sushma Sawraj with Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong during their meeting in Singapore on August 16
Swaraj said, "We look forward to Singapore companies to speed up connectivity and infrastructure projects in India, particularly, along the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC), the ChennaiBangalore Industrial Corridor and the North-East. Singapore could develop a virtual city or a 'little Singapore' somewhere along the corridor." Noting that Singapore was not only India's largest trading partner in ASEAN, but also one of the largest sources of foreign investment in India, she also proposed that the two countries should explore prospects for cooperative projects in third countries. As part of the 50th anniversary celebrations, President Pranab Mukherjee and his Singapore counterpart Tony Tan would exchange state visits next year. The annual bilateral trade has
the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) in 2005. A joint statement issued after talks between Swaraj and Shanmugam said, "Both ministers expressed the hope that the negotiations for the Second Review of the CECA would be completed expeditiously, which would send a positive signal to the business community." The Ministers also reaffirmed the importance of ASEAN's centrality in the regional architecture as well as the growing and wideranging cooperation between ASEAN and India. They looked forward to the signing of the Free Trade Agreement in Services and Investment between ASEAN and India by the end of 2014. -PTI
States to have own export promotion councils NHAVA SHEVA, Maharashtra: The states will soon be allowed to form their own Export Promotion Councils, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said as he underscored the need for the Centre and states to work in tandem to give a fresh thrust to exports. He also stressed upon the need for swift removal of obstacles stalling the Special Economic Zones (SEZs). "We at the Centre have to team up with the state governments for export promotion and the states should also work hard individually to help drive exports," Modi said, addressing a gathering after laying the foundation stone of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust SEZ here. Modi said the Centre had recently convened a meeting with states to identify the bottlenecks in exports and states would be given the right to set up their own Export Promotion Councils to drive foreign trade at the local level, hinting that they should not depend solely on the Central government interventions. At present, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry at the Centre plays the role of a facilitator for pushing exports. The states, Modi said, should also compete with each other in enhancing exports and focus on development of markets abroad, he said. Voicing concern at a large number of stalled SEZ projects across the country, the Prime Minister said a high-level team has been
constituted to review the problems and resolve them at the earliest. "In the PMO, there is a special team to look into why SEZs are not finding takers and to suggest solutions for the benefit of the entire country," he said. "Until we join manufacturers in export promotion, and unless States and Centre work together, we cannot achieve new heights in exports," he said. Modi stressed the need for shifting focus from port develop-
opment, but port-led development which would include ports, SEZs, rail, road, air and waterway connectivity with the hinterland, including linkages of cold storage and warehousing facilities. Noting that two-third of all global trade and 50 per cent of container trade happens through the Indian Ocean, the Prime Minister highlighted the importance of the ports sector. "Ports can become gateways to India`s prosperity," he added.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing after laying the foundation stones of Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust Special Economic Zone and Port Connectivity Road, at a function, at Sheva, in Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra on August 16
ment to 'port-led development' model to maximize gains. The government, he said, had conceived 'Sagarmala', an ambitious project for maritime states, envisaging not merely port devel-
Drawing from global experience where nations with good port facilities have achieved faster growth, Modi said coastal states in India should also seize the opportunity.-PTI
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Low growth, high inflation not acceptable: Jaitley MUMBAI: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has said the current situation of high inflation and low
ation. And, I believe that unless we find out the reasons which have led us to such a situation, it
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley
Stating that the Narendra Modi government inherited very low growth, Jaitley said GDP grew at 4.5 per cent and 4.7 per cent, respectively in 201213 and 2013-14. "The manufacturing sector was flat and another negative
growth has to be reversed to achieve sustainable GDP expansion along with improvement in price situation. "If inflation is high then you begin at a point where growth is low. We need to change this situ-
is difficult to solve it," he said. Jaitley was speaking at a BJP forum meeting here, his second engagement in the nation's financial capital after becoming the finance minister. He attributed the reasons for
the current predicament to policy paralysis and the populist measures of the previous UPA regime. "Some of the populist schemes like free medicines in Rajasthan did not help the then ruling party to come back to power," the Finance Minister said. Stating that the Narendra Modi government inherited very low growth, Jaitley said GDP grew at 4.5 per cent and 4.7 per cent, respectively in 2012-13 and 2013-14. "The manufacturing sector for one year was flat and another year it was negative. When manufacturing growth becomes negative, the Customs and Excise duties come down, revenue of government also comes down, forcing it to borrow more," he said. Calling for erOerty, the Minister said one of the challenges for the nation is to remove poverty and to increase the pace of development. "People are not ready to accept that the pace of development is slow and we are not able to remove poverty," he said. -PTI
Planning Commission - vestige of socialist era scrapped NEW DELHI: The 64-year-old Planning Commission, a vestige of the socialist era, will soon become history. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day speech, announced that the Commission, set up in 1950 at a time when government gave public sector the commanding heights of economy, would be abolished and replaced with a more relevant institution. Greatly impressed by the Soviet planning system, the country's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru had set up the Planning Commission to steer the nation's economic destiny. Set up by a Cabinet Resolution, the Commission enjoyed immense power and prestige as it had always been headed by the Prime Minister. Its most important function was to fix targets for sectoral growth and allocate resources to achieve them. The Deputy Chairman of the Commission has often been a political stalwart holding the rank of a Cabinet Minister. The stalwarts who had been the deputy chief of the panel included Gulzarilal Nanda, V T
Krishnamachari, C Subramaniam, P N Haksar, Manmohan Singh, Pranab Mukherjee, K C Pant, Jaswant Singh, Madhu Dandavate, Mohan Dharia and R K Hegde. The last deputy chairman was Montek Singh Ahluwalia. The Soviet-era style planning body, however, lost its relevance after the opening of the economy in the 90s. With the dismantling of the license raj, it functioned only as an advisory body without any effective power. "We will very soon set up a new institution in place of Planning Commission...the internal situation of the country has changed, global environment has changed...We need an institution of creative thinking and for optimum utilization of youth capability," Modi said in his Independence Day address. The Commission was set up by Nehru with the explicit objective to promote a rapid rise in the standard of living of the people by efficient exploitation of the resources of the country, increasing production and offering opportunities to all for employment in the service of the community.-PTI
Desi News FIA leads colorful India I-Day Parade on Devon A.Q. SIDDIQUI
CHICAGO: The near week long celebrations of India Day in Chicagoland culminated with the FIA (the Federation of Indian Associations) Chicago hosting a colorful Parade on Mahatma Gandhi Marg near Devon Avenue. The FIA (suburb) hosted a small but delightful meet in Schaumburg. The Midwest Alliance not lagging behind had a wonderful day-long celebration in Naperville. It was a general belief that the FIA Parade was losing its original luster with the attendance falling steadily over the years and this year could have bottomed to the worst so far.
COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA
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www.indiapost.com
August 22, 2014
Teen organizes fundraiser; donates proceeds Details on page 19
Festival of India showcases Pride, Parade & Passion All pics: Silverscreenphoto.com & Suresh Subramanium
Details on page 20
FIA (Suburb) celebrates India Day with gusto HARISH RAO
SCHAUMBURG: Federation of Indian Associations, Chicago, Il celebrated India's 68th Independence Day with great pride and spirit highlighted by two astounding events. Mind blowing and amazing show of Mika Singh at Copernicus theatre was a thunderous success and a memorable event with LIVE2U. This was the first time FIA, Chicago deviated from their routine banquet event to present something different and exciting to community people. Details on page 21
NJ Assembly honors Kavita, Dr L Subramaniam India Post News Service
NEW YORK: New Jersey State Assembly Deputy Speaker Upendra Chivukula honored the musical couple of India - Bollywood singer Kavita Krishnamurti and her husband and violin maestro Dr L Subramaniam with special Assembly proclamations for their service to global music. Presenting the Assembly proclamations to the couple at a function organized by America Tamil Sangam and Shri Vari Foundation in picturesque Swan Club in Long Island, Chivukula said at a very young age, Dr Subramaniam was honored with the title "Violin Chakravarthy" (emperor of the violin). No other musician can boast of such diverse repertoire and collaborations, or even such mind-boggling techniques. Details on page 25
VIDYA SETHURAMAN India Post News Service
FREMONT, CA: California's Fremont City, also dubbed as Little India, was alive with dancing, singing and flag waving as the community held its annual Festival of India and Parade. Federation of Indo-Americans of Northern California celebrated its 22nd Festival of India and Parade with more than 80,000 in attendance, according to official security estimates. The Festival organized by Federation of Indo Americans of
Northern California (FIA) is the most awaited event of California and it symbolizes the unity, integrity, culture and best of the things that are hallmark of the Indian community in Bay area. It started as a local event some 21 years back and has now grown manifold. It showcases the perfect blend of fun, entertainment and national integration. Today it has become a national event attracting participants from as far away as East Coast. To kick-start the celebrations, on Thursday, Aug 14 there was an Indian flag raising ceremony at San Jose City Hall, presented by San Jose City Councilman Ash Kalra at 6:30 pm in the City Hall, followed by entertainment. Likewise, there was an Indian flag hoisting ceremony on Wednesday, Aug 13 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at Milpitas City Hall. "Every year it keeps getting better and bigger - I think we realize how fortunate we are to have this freedom, unlike many others. This flag hoisting makes us proud and makes us realize who we are and what we are." The festival opened on August 16 at 10 am in Paseo Padre Parkway with the "Free Health Fair". The Health Fair had about 30 Indian American physicians and other medical professionals providing free medical services and follow up. Cont’d on page 18
August 22, 2014
Community Across America
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Inaugural Global Movie Festival a big hit
Natalie Miranda, Last Supper
ARCHANA ASTHANA India Post News Service
FREMONT, CA: The debut of the San Francisco Global Movie Festival was an
Prashantt Guptta, Identity Card
additional attraction of the 22nd Festival of India and Parade, on the occasion of India's sixty eighth Independence Day celebrations, organized by the Federation of Indian Americans (FIA). The brainchild of FIA
Chairman Dr Romesh Japra and Co-Chairman Rajesh Verma, this grand movie festival was successfully manned by a huge team of volunteers. The event aimed to include a larger cross-section of the global community by offering a selection of the best independent short films from all over the globe. Nomina-
Yves Bright, Parampal Gill, Director Last Supper, Najarra Townsend, Barkhaa Roy & Dr Romesh Japra
tions in the categories of Narrative Short, Narrative Feature, Documentary Feature, Bay Area Film Initiative and South Asian Panorama were screened mostly at Towne 3 Cinemas in San Jose for the duration of the weekend. An accomplished jury of Bollywood and Hollywood personalities were tasked with the selection of winners in each of several categories. The star studded opening night, a red carpet reception, multicultural performances, and welcome of dignitaries was rounded off with the world premiere screening of the Hollywood dark comedy, "Last Supper" in the ornate and stately venue of the California Theatre in San Jose. The director, Dr Parampal Gill, a filmmaker from California, achieved the unique distinction of volunteering two movies for world premiere at this festival, one of which was a Hollywood dramedy, and the other, a Bollywood action packed drama, "Death of Amar". Two entirely different films intended for two entirely different audiences. Such a feat has never been accomplished by a single director in any other movie festival in the world! Some notable celebrities that graced with their presence were Hollywood comedy legend Eddie Griffin, Yves Bright and Najara Townsend and Natalie Miranda, all of whom starred in Last Supper, deemed the Best Film of the Festival, to be released worldwide on Thanksgiving, 2014. The chemistry between the cast and director was palpable, and Eddie Griffin, recognized as the Best Actor, was his usual
Consul General Parthasarathi, Rewa Kumar, Ash Kalra, Kenshu Chu, Global movie directors
comic self, who interacted jocularly with the attendees, adding charm to the evening. Dr Gill mentioned that one of the challenges on the set was to get Eddie to refrain from being a comic, and emoting his lunatic char-
Eddie Grifin dancing
acter who hopes to rescue a princess in his mind's romantic vision. Similar sentiments were echoed by Najarra, recipient of the Best Actress award, who laughed and said that she enjoyed working with Eddie, and had to get back in character of the "princess"; in reality, a hooker who was rescued from wanting to end her own life. Yves Bright, playing the role of the doctor who certifies the lunacy of the main characters, also voiced the positive experience with the cast and director, and that he would be willing to work with them again. Cont’d on page 22
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August 22, 2014
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Festival of India showcases Pride, Parade & Passion Cont’d from page 16
The fair was organized by FIA team members with physicians and other medical professionals from Kaiser Permanante, St. Rose Hospital, Walgreens, Uppal Dental Care, Gateway Eye Care. The Health Fair was attended by over 5000 and lasted for about three hours. Health Fair testing included screening for high blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, body analysis, risk assessment for heart attack and stroke. Dr Romesh Japra, Dr Bhupinder Bhandari, Dr Sarabjit Hundal, Dr Monika Chugh, Dr Charanjit Uppal, Dr Vijay Tewari, Dr Anupama Patnaik and Dr Ahmed Sadiq
were part of Health Fair physicians' team and counseled with the patients. The Parade was joined by 100 plus organizations, including 20 plus floats, two marching bands, 27 walking groups, and an assortment of dignitaries, including Consul General N. Parthasarathi. The entire parade route spanned 1.4 miles and was decorated with American and Indian flags. The parade was coordinated by Deepak Chhabra and there were about 12 floats showcasing the rich culture and heritage of India. Many local ethnic groups such as Bay Area Telugu Association, Telengana, RANA, Assam and Uttar Pradesh participated in the parade with colorful floats and
Ash Kalra council member, Chuck Reed Mayor San Jose, N. Parthasarathi Consul General
entertainment programs highlighting the State's culture and heritage. Bollywood actor Ayushman Khurana and actress Esha Deol were the Parade's Grand Marshal and Co-Marshal. Ayushman was joined in the colorful procession by FIA Chairman Dr Romesh Japra and Co-Chairman Rajesh Verma. Cont’d on page 28
August 22, 2014
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Teen organizes fundraiser; donates proceeds DEEPAK CHHABRA
FREMONT, CA: In today's increasingly electronically driven society, it is difficult to find teenagers who work hard, embrace the incalculable school pressure yet find the time to go beyond requirements to give back to the community. Shrey Kapoor from Saint Francis High School, Mountain View, is one of these rare persons who initiated and organized a successful fundraiser at the Fremont Hindu Temple on Sunday, August 10. Shrey is donating all proceeds from this charitable event to UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital Oakland. In organizing the event, Shrey collected flyers from the hospital and gathered other supplies himself to distribute amongst the attendees of the temple. Regarding this fundraiser and his other charitable work, Shrey said, "I feel this type of altruistic work shouldn't be something that is a point of emphasis; rather, it should be more common amongst us youth. We as a community need to realize that underprivileged people exist as a large part of society and something needs to be done for them. I feel it is more of an obligation on the part of this current generation of young men and women like me who are blessed with tools and education to take steps to actualize change in our society. Many thanks to the Fremont Hindu Temple for this opportunity to do my part in giving back to the community." FACC and FIA chairman Dr Romesh Japra praised Shrey and encouraged him to do more of such events. Apart from this fundraiser, Shrey has shown selfless passion in other noble causes, such as volunteering for the Masonic Homes Senior Center, multiple
Alameda County libraries, and other events throughout the year that work with the developmentally disabled, children, and poor. He has thus accumulated hundreds of hours beyond the
school's requirement of 10 hours a year. Shrey plans to conduct more of such fundraisers and he's actively working to encourage others to do the same.
Community Across America
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FIA leads colorful India I-Day Parade on Devon A.Q. SIDDIQUI
CG addressing the meet in the Consulate
CHICAGO: The near week long celebrations of India Day in Chicagoland culminated with the FIA (the Federation of Indian Associations) Chicago hosting a colorful Parade on Mahatma Gandhi Marg near Devon Avenue. The FIA (suburb) hosted a small but delightful meet in Schaumburg. The Midwest Alliance not lagging
Cake Cutting Ceremony at Cultural Center in the evening
country and more importantly the transition to a new government in a democratic way, says Madhu Patel, founder president of NRI Press Club, The (FIA) parade was the third and final major event by FIA celebration of India I-Day in Chicago beginning with a community banquet dinner last week and a flag
CG greeting guests
TV Stars Mohit Malik, Neha Marda, Indian Consul General Dr Ausaf Sayeed, Clerk of Cook County Dorothy Brow, Ald Joe Moore, candidate for State Assembly Laddi Singh and all FIA senior trustees. The crowd on both sides of the street waved to parade marshals and Zee TV stars. Governor Quinn
Group of Community activists
behind had a wonderful day-long celebration in Naperville. It was a general belief that the FIA Parade was losing its original luster with the attendance falling steadily over the years and this year could have bottomed to the worst so far. But doomsayers were proved wrong as thousands of Chicagoans from all walks of life and from all communities flocked to Mahatma Gandhi Marg on Saturday August 16 to witness the Parade, flag hoisting ceremony and the Mela that followed. This was despite the fact that no Bollywood stars came to lend their charm or colors for the event. Zee TV stars, though, were there to make up for the filmy people's absence. What was the prime reason for this turn out of 6000 plus spectators on this occasion? The kind weather was a big factor but the other reason is the love for the
hosting ceremony on Friday. Illinois Governor Pat Quinn joined the parade as Grand Marshal along with eminent Indian American community leaders, celebrity Zee
erected near California Ave. The leaders, VIPs and FIA trustees were led to the stage. FIA senior trustee Iftekhar Shareef and President Keerthi Kumar Ravoori welcomed the Indian American community from the stage. Governor Pat Quinn and Indian Consul General Dr Sayeed spoke from the stage and congratulated the In-
tion. A long line of spectacular and colorful floats by different business houses added to the glory of parade. The moving floats also reflected ethnic and cultural diversity of India. While there was a float of overseas friends of BJP, another marching float was from the Kerala Congress party friends.
The start with guests and Marshals
went to waving crowds and exchanged greetings with Indian community members. The Parade was taken out from Western Ave and marched up to the center stage
dian community for the India Independence Day. Iftekhar Shareef hailed Governor Quinn as the friend of Indian community and called for support for his re-elec-
Different floats
IADO Ram Gajjella float was for Governor Quinn's support while Babu Verma's float showed glimpses of Indian Christians. Cont’d on page 23
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August 22, 2014
India Post 21
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FIA (Suburb) celebrates India Day with gusto HARISH RAO
Lamp lighting in the presence of Indian Consul G Gamte
SCHAUMBURG: Federation of Indian Associations, Chicago, Il celebrated India's 68th Independence Day with great pride and spirit highlighted by two astounding events. Mind blowing and amazing show of Mika Singh at Copernicus theatre was a thunderous success and a memorable event with LIVE2U. This was the first time FIA, Chicago deviated from their routine banquet event to present something different and exciting to community people. Several board members could not make it because of weddings in the family town and those present during lamp lightning ceremony were Founder President
Governor's Independence Day message praising Sunil Shah, President Omkar Sangha and the Board members for their leadership qualities. She mentioned that the achievements that the organization had scored over the years could not have occurred without their commitment and leadership. It was a matter of real pride that first time ever India's Independence Day was celebrated with flag hoisting ceremony at village of Schaumburg with tremendous enthusiasm and patriotism. Community people from Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates and surrounding suburbs attended the colorful ceremony and enjoyed the sweets and delicious
Schaumburg Hoffman State Mayors, FIA Executive Team and FIA volunteers during India Day celebrations
Sunil Shah with his wife Rita Shah, Vice President, Bharti Desai, General Secretary Neil Khot, Directors Amit Desai, Sheetal Daftari and Ninad Daftari. Also present were dignitaries Deputy Consul General Gangte, Hanover Park Mayor Rodney Craig, Governor Pat Quinn's chief policy advisor Theresa Mah and Air India Midwest Manager Rishikant Singh. Sunil Shah welcomed the guests and thanked the sponsors and supporters for their ongoing support which had made this association stronger and vibrant. He invited the audience to the flag hoisting ceremony at Village of Schaumburg and also graciously requested them to attend the parade on Devon Ave on the same day as of friends in another FIA. Theresa Mah read out the
snacks. Bharti Desai welcomed Founder President Sunil Shah on stage at the onset and he in his brief speech welcomed the guests and dignitaries and encouraged everyone to reflect upon the beautiful and powerful sentence " Freedom is Celebration, Independence is Challenge". whether it is USA or India, she paid glowing tributes to the freedom fighters who underwent tremendous hardships and struggles and at the end even sacrificed their lives for their country. Onkar Sangha appreciated the support of all the dignitaries present on the event especially of Al Larson, Mayor of Schaumburg, William Mcleod Mayor of Hoffman Estates, Tom Cullerton State Senator, Michelle Mussman Illionois State Repre-
Flag hoisting in Schaumburg
sentative and Fred Crespo Illinois State Representative. Dhitu Bhagwakar Executive Vice Presi-
dent, Ravi Kapoor Vice President, Neil Khot General Secretary also addressed the crowd. Jodhsingh
Rawat sang a patriotic song and program was concluded with a beautiful cultural dance.
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August 22, 2014
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Grayslake Mandir celebrates Janmashtami & India Day GEETHA PATIL
Sthapan, Lord Ganesh and Devi Pujan were performed by Pt. Anil Joshi with all the Vedic rituals with Nikhil and Shruti Sharma. A children's cultural program was organized by Anu Gupta. Young children below 10 years performed Radha Krishna dances and sang lyrical devotional bhajans. Musical prayerful bhajans, including a mellow Kannada devotional song, were sung. Pt. Joshi gave an enlightening discourse on why Krishna chose Janmashtami Abhishek by Mandir priests Devotees throng celebration of Lord Krishna Birthday
CHICAGO: The Hindu Mandir of Lake County celebrated Janmashtami with religious fervor and vivacity on Saturday, 16 August with over 600 devotees attending the hours long ceremony and darshan. Many couples with young children came to witness Baby Krishna sitting in a beautifully decorated cradle along with attractively painted cutouts showing the life of Lord Krishna's childhood to teen age. The main function started around 6:00pm by breaking a candy filled 'Govinda Mataki' by young children and adults. Kalash
prison cell for his birth. He said that at that point of time, the moral and cultural values were corrupted, relationships between parents and children, brothers and sisters, and the interactions between kings and citizens were degraded. To preserve dharma and cultural values, and to protect righteous devotees such as Devaki and Vasudev, Lord Krishna used His supreme power and performed all His enchanting Aishwarya leelas. Devotees had an enjoyable moment when three baby Krishnas entered the shrine with their respective Vasudev Babas and they chanted in chorus "Nanda ke anand bhayo Jai Krishna lal ki.' Cont’d on page 23
A children's cultural program was organized by Anu Gupta. Young children below 10 years performed Radha Krishna dances and sang lyrical devotional bhajans. Musical prayerful bhajans were sung
Inaugural Global Movie Festival a big hit Cont’d from page 17
Natalie, who portrays an eight year old, liked being in the spotlight, and having hair and makeup done. Another filmmaker who was showcased in the South Asian Panorama, was Barkhaa Roy, who held her own as the force behind the documentary feature, "My Friend Hussain", based on the life and work of the renowned artist, M.F. Hussain. She has been known as the sister of Reena Roy, the actress of multiple successful movies, but now presents herself as a passionate story teller about a man she held in great esteem. A dear friend, who she promised to make a film with; a promise she realized posthumously with pleasing results. It was a tribute to the greatness of the man, the artist, the family head, and an incurable romantic, told through fond remembrances of friends and colleagues. Barkhaa, a very warm personality, has even included a moving song to bring to life the
vibrant personality of this great artist. In addition, she unveiled a collection of original paintings of Hussain, along with a book launch with the same title as the movie, which recounts in words and pictures some of what is included in the movie. While this movie is banned in India, it has won the Dada Saheb Phalke award given by the Academy of the same name, and was intended for the US market. A notable entry, "Identity Card" soon to be released in India, on August 20th, presented a slice of the reality of life in Kashmir, as depicted in the situation of three hapless young people who are picked up by Special Task Force (STF) personnel on suspicion of terrorism. The story showing one day spent in the police cell highlights myths about religion, the situation of a common man in the midst of a warlike situation, the struggles of police personnel, and a changed outlook towards the end on part of all.
The credible performances by the small cast, tight direction by Rahat Kazmi and the backdrop of scenic Kashmir tell a compelling story that keeps the attention until the unexpected end. Prashantt Gupta, a brilliant performer, a product of New York now transplanted
Dr Gill shared that he was extremely pleased with the outcome of the movie festival, and is looking forward to next year, with an even more impressive global selections and star presence. in Mumbai, was thrilled to be awarded the Best Supporting Actor for his role as a Kashmiri policeman. He shared that the situations in the movie were based on
events that happened to the people known to the director, and portrayed authenticity. His candid expectations for the film's success rely on good marketing. Interestingly, Dr Gill shared that this movie is mandatory watching for Kashmiri police and armymen, and Kashmir is reopening its movie theaters to screen this movie. It has done a great job of sensitizing the American audience to the reality played out in this part of the world. The movie "Death of Amar" was in stark contrast to the Hollywood entry by Dr Gill, who remarked that this is intended for an entirely different audience, which was obvious from the get go. A fast paced action thriller, loosely reminiscent of a Hollywood creation, "Crank", centers on the life...and imminent death by poisoning of the central character, Amar. He has a day left in his life to figure out why he was poisoned and by whom. All manners of thrill, and action, laced with some un-
derworld drama unfold and keep the audience guessing until the final twist in the plot. In a conversation, Dr Gill shared that he was extremely pleased with the outcome of the movie festival, and is looking forward to next year, with an even more impressive global selections and star presence. He pointed out that the mindset of the Alternative Art Cinema, commonly associated with festival screenings, has mingled with commercial cinema made with a target audience in mind. The $100,000 award he has received for his directorial excellence will fund his next venture, which will be a Bollywood production. Entries from multiple other countries, such as Russia, U.S., Chile, Peru, China, Taiwan shared the stage and were united by the common thread of being independent films, yet representing the nuances and intrigues of the country of origin. Each had a unique story to tell, and were well received and each contribution duly recognized.
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August 22, 2014
India Post 23
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FIA leads colorful India I-Day Parade on Devon Cont’d from page 20
The grand FIA led India Independence Day celebration came to an end with a show of entertainment and Mela soon after the Parade. The Grand Mela turned out to be a festival of music, dance and singing in the heart of Devon Ave. Throngs of visitors arrived to enjoy the dances and singing by Chicago's celebrated dancer/ singer Noman Khan and Shailni Saxena who earned a big applause of the crowds. Zee TV celebrities Mohit Malik [Samrat] and Neha Merda [Urmi] of 'Doli Armanon Ki' fame entertained families by posing for pictures, giving autographs and greeting them. The Grand Mela was hosted under the chairmanship of Ajeet Singh with Co-Chairs Minhaj Akhtar and Ankur Choudhari who teamed up with Chicago's prominent show-biz team Bhavesh Patel and Nick Patel of Sahil & LA Tan. Keerthi Kumar took the opportunity to thank Ali
Zee TV Artists with FIA Officials
Indian community members attending the Parade and watching colorful floats
Kazmi, Sales Manager of Emirates Airlines as the Grand Sponsor for the parade and welcomed Emirates to Chicago. Earlier on August 15, the FIA had flag unfurling ceremony at Daley Plaza which was attended by hundreds and sweets were distributed. INDIAN CONSULATE EVENTS The Indian Consulate kept up its years long tradition of having the Flag hoisting ceremony at the Consulate office in Downtown Chicago. CG Dr Ausuf Sayeed
greeted the Chicago elites, invitees and Consulate staff and read out Indian President Pranab Mukherjee's message. The Consulate in the evening hosted a get together for select invitees and Chicago Indian American community members at Cultural Center in Downtown Chicago where a cake cutting ceremony signifying the birth of Indian nation was conducted with solemnity and pomp. The entertainment program was another highlight of the nearly three-hour program.
Grayslake Mandir celebrates Janmashtami & India Day Cont’d from page 22
This created an echoic effect in the shrine. One baby Krishna in the group had an Indian father and an American mother. Archana and Maha Mangalarati were performed before serving delicious prasadam to fasting and non-fasting devotees. President Harsh Kumar gave vote of thanks to all the devotees for their enthusiasm and volunteers for making this event a grand success. On Sunday 17 August, devotees of the Mandir celebrated Indian Independence Day with colorfully dressed children's procession parade who waved India's Tiranga Jhanda (tri-color flag). Young children performed classical dances and sang national devotional songs. A group of ladies sang 'Vande Mataram' with utmost dedication which triggered the spirit of freedom in everyone's heart. This event was organized by Prabhakar and Savita Joshi. Pt Anil Joshi said, "It should be celebrated as a day of self-examination, to think about all those who gave their lives for independence. We have to make the world a better place to live preserving our rich heritage and identity wherever we go". Panditji thanked all profusely for making this event memorable.
The culmination was breaking Matki (earthen pot) to celebrate Lord Krishna's going to Gokul
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Thousands gather at SRF World Convocation India Post News Service
LOS ANGELES: Yogis from all over the world came to Los Angeles last week in search of spiritual guidance for dealing with life's daily challenges and demands. For many, living a balanced life means including a yoga meditation practice to help feel more centered connected, and ready for the unexpected occurrences that life Sisters of Self-Realization Fellowship chant devotional songs (kirtan) in LA's Westin Bonaventure Hotel
throws our way. It is this spiritual motivation that drew nearly 4,000 people to the annual Self-Realization Fellowship (SRF) World Convocation; held August 3-9 at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel. Attendees traveled from 46 countries and all 50 states of the US to immerse themselves in the yoga meditation teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda, SRF founder and author of the celebrated spiritual classic Autobiography of A Yogi. During the week, SRF monks and nuns led satsangas (informal talks), group meditations, Brother kirtans (devotional chanting), Kriya Yoga ceremonies, and classes on the meditation techniques of Paramahansa Yogananda and his "How-to-Live" teachings. Brother Jayananda, who conducted the opening evening's talk on Sunday, August 3, spoke of the
that cultivating a spiritual life helps one handle the pressures of the outside world. During a class entitled "Sustaining a Joyful Heart in Times of Adversity," Brother Sevananda reminded the attendees that meditation helps the mind to become calm, enabling one to feel more peace, love and joy so he or she can face the difficult challenges that seem frightening or overwhelming. He emphasized that with interior strength, one should face challenges with the attitude of a child of God In Wednesday's talk honoring the legacy of Sri Daya Mata, President of Self-Realization Fellowship for many years before her passing in 2010, Sister Preeti shared some of Sri Daya Mata's words of wis-
Vishwananda addressing the SRF convocation
dom: "Love is what everyone wants...In the ultimate sense, only love can change others." Sister Preeti reminded the audience that they too can transform themselves through giving and receiving love. Brother Ritananda led a
Participants of the SRF convocation listen to a discourse at the Yogananda Meditation Garden
importance of developing spiritual practice amidst all of the distractions and hectic pace of daily life. He reminded Convocation attendees that the challenges of life point one to look inward for guidance,
satsanga on Thursday, focusing on the tools which help one work through pain and suffering, bringing deeper spiritual awareness. Cont’d on page 25
August 22, 2014
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NJ Assembly honors Kavita, Dr L Subramaniam community in Long Island. Jasmine Sirdana of The Swan Club praised the contribution of the legendary music couple. Prakash M Swamy, President of America Tamil Sangam, welcomed the gathering and John Joseph, secretary, proposed a vote of thanks. An array of community lead-
rated, conducted and close to two hundred recordings. Dr Subramaniam is the only musician who has performed/recorded Karnatic Classical music, western classical music, both orchestral and non-orchestral, and also composed for and conducted major orchestras, scored for films, collaborated with a wide range of
approach. He said Kavita's singing career reads like a fairy tale. Her exquisite and mellifluous voice, wide range and, versatility to sing different styles and types of songs has put her in a unique place amongst singers and she has been quoted as a melody queen by leading critics and connois-
Upendra Chivukula presents the proclamation to Dr Subramaniam while Bobby Sirdana looks on. Pics courtesy Nala Singham India Post News Service
NEW YORK: New Jersey State Assembly Deputy Speaker Upendra Chivukula honored the musical couple of India Bollywood singer Kavita Krishnamurti and her husband and violin maestro Dr L Subramaniam with special Assembly proclamations for their service to global music. Presenting the Assembly proclamations to the couple at a function organized by America Tamil Sangam and Shri Vari Foundation in picturesque Swan Club in Long Island, Chivukula said at a very young age, Dr Subramaniam was honored with the title "Violin
Chakravarthy" (emperor of the violin). No other musician can boast of such diverse repertoire and collaborations, or even such mind-boggling techniques. Bina Sapabathy of Nassau County Dept of Social Services and Vice President of Indian Association of Long Island, presented two proclamations issued by Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano to Dr Subramaniam and Kavita Krishamurthy. Bobby Sirdana, owner of The Swan Club in his address praised the couple for their service to India and said he was honored by their visit to this exquisite club that caters to all sections of the
Prasad Kam and Bina Sabapathy present the Nassau County Executive Proclamation to Kavita Krishnamurthy while Salil Zaveri looks on
ers including George Abraham, Chairman of Indian National Overseas Congress, Harbachan Singh, INOC Secretary and Dr Madan Raj graced the occasion. Till date, Dr Subramaniam has produced, performed, collabo-
Palatine Opportunity Center to host cultural fair THAKAR BASATI
PALATINE: Palatine Opportunity Center (POC), a not for profit organization, is hosting cultural fair on Thursday September 5 from 10 am to 2 pm at 1585 N Rand Rd Palatine, a northwest Chicago suburb. POC provides many community services to under-privileged people in the area. They have free medical Clinic, small library, Harper Community College classes for English learning, Citizenship classes, computer classes, nursery school, dance and aerobic classes, help and guidance for youngsters, utility help for people who can't afford and also help for Senior Citizens. People from many nationalities utilize their free services. They also have summer community garden where people
and the second around noon showing their native dresses. Some countries will show case their folk dances. People have specially asked for turban tying demonstration at the fair. Ms. Kathy Millin, Director POC said, "By hosting cultural fair, we are trying to expose the culture of all the people we serve. Most of the local people have no clue about the rich culture people bring with File photo of turban tying at POC them when they come picting their culture. Most of them to United States." will have their food for tasting. If anyone is interested taking There will be two fashion shows, part from India or Pakistan, please one in the beginning around 10 am contact at 847-736-6092 get fresh home grown vegetables. About 12-13 countries will have their booths displaying items de-
some of the greatest musicians, from different genres of music including jazz, occidental, jugalbandis with North Indian musicians, world music and global fusion. He has established himself as a force that is strongly Indian, but universal in nature and
seurs alike. Kavita with fantastic range and interpretation began her recording career in 1971.Her exemplary voice has taken her all around the world, including to the US, UK, Europe, Africa, Australia, Far East, Middle East, South America.
Thousands gather at SRF World Convocation Cont’d from page 24
Bro. Satyananda's talk on Friday night entitled "Eliminating Insecurity and Indecision Through Positive Thinking and Enthusiasm" focused on the ways in which a person's spiritual journey provides challenges, and what one can do to bring more focus, peace and joy into one's search. He reminded the Convocation participants that life is impermanent, but God's love is consistent. During the week, SRF Convocation participants joined pilgrimages to spiritual sanctuaries established by Sri Yogananda in Southern California, including the Lake Shrine in Pacific Palisades; the international headquarters of Self-
Realization Fellowship on Mt. Washington near downtown Los Angeles; the SRF Hollywood Temple; Sri Yogananda's crypt at Forest Lawn in Glendale; and the SRF Retreat and Hermitage in Encinitas, where Sri Yogananda wrote most of his inspiring life story, Autobiography of A Yogi. In 1920, Paramahansa Yogananda founded Self-Realization Fellowship to disseminate his teachings. Headquartered in Los Angeles since 1925, SRF also publishes the complete works of Sri Yogananda and his monastic disciples. Today, SRF and its affiliate organization in India, Yogoda Satsanga Society of India, has more than 600 temples, retreats, and meditation centers in over 60 countries around the world.
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August 22, 2014
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Pak I-Day parade and celebration on Devon A.Q. SIDDIQUI
CHICAGO: The Pakistani American community held a colorful parade and mela on Devon Avenue Sunday August 17 celebrating the 67th Pak I-Day with usual fervor in Chicago. Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, 50th ward Alderman Debra Silverstein, Senator Ira Silverstein and Pakistan Consul General Faisal Niaz Tirmizi were among the Grand Marshals for the parade accompanied by prominent Pakistani community leaders and Pakistan United Parade Committee members. Bushra Khan welcomed the parade marshals to the stage and emceed the event. American and Pakistan national anthems were played and many Pakistani youth enthusiastically echoed the national anthem. Raja Razzak, chairman PUPC congratulated Paki-
stani community for 67th Independence Day and thanked the sponsors for the event. The Pak Consul General Faisal Niaz Tirmizi also congratulated the community and urged the Pakistani Americans in Chicago to create stronger ties with other communities. He called upon Pakistani Ameri-
Kids and youth participated joyfully
can youth to join mainstream social and political life of US. Illinois Governor Pat Quinn and Alderman Debra Silverstein also congratulated Pakistani community. Many colorful and well decorated floats passed by and were cheered by the crowd from both sides of the street. It was a daylong celebration for Pak community in Chicago as soon after the parade a food festival and Mela was organized at Warren Park around 2pm for fun and entertainment. Many families thronged Warren Park and enjoyed entertainment and participated in raffles. The Mela continued till 7pm. Raja Razzak and others were seen greeting community at Warren Park. The Pak Independence Day celebration were co-ordinated by Hameed Ullah Khan, Ilyas Khokhar, Raja Yakub, Raja Tasleem, Dr
The crowd at the Parade
Wasiullah Khan, Yasin Chohan, Jawaid Riaz, Abdul Wahid Butt,
Akhter Ali and others. Cont’d on page 27
Teaching Yog the right way SURI SWAMY
CHICAGO: An acclaimed Indian Yoga Teacher and Guru, Kanubhai Brahmbhatt, 72 has decided to teach Yog not the commercial way but the way that it was passed on generations to generation for thousands of years - the Brahm Vidya. He seeks to get Yog to the mainstream Americans for rejuvenating not only the physical body but get corporal, spiritual and emotional happiness all around in a being. Dr SN Subbarao
Yog Setu Universal logo
Kanubhai, a World Brand Ambassador for Yoga Alliance International, with his followers and friends has announced launching
the true Gandhian living Dr SN Subbarao, 84. Dr Subbarao heads the Gandhi Peace Commission and is a director of National Youth Project in India. He shot into prominence during the freedom struggle but got name and fame when using the Gandhian principle of universal love and non-violence to get dacoit Madho Singh and his gang surrender peacefully to the government four-five decades ago. The launch event is slated at Manav Seva Mandir in Bensenville and all are invited to the event, says Madhu Patel, a Yog Set Universal activist.
Kanubhai Brahmbhatt
of Yog Setu Universal in Chicago land on August 28 this year. The nomenclature ceremony is slated in the morning at 10 am at 9600 Golf Road, DesPlaines but the formal launch will be in the evening at the hand of an octogenarian and
Madhu Patel
August 22, 2014
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Hindi Diwas to be celebrated Pak I-Day parade and celebration on Devon on Sept 14 Cont’d from page 26
RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service
CHICAGO: Hindi Lovers Club with a huge support from the Indian Consulate in Chicago has slated hosting of Hindi Diwas with a view to creating wider awareness and promoting the Indian national l a n guage Hindi in this part of t h e world Hindi L o vers Smt Gurbachan Kaur C l u b this time has enlisted the support not only from the Consulate but also from a number of other ethnic Indian associations like UP Association, Bihar Association, Orissa Association, Maharashtra Association and a good number of Indian businessmen, according to Gurbachan Kaur, a spokesperson. Ms Kaur said that the event is slated at Ashyana Banquet Hall in Downers Grove, a south west suburb of Chicago, on Sunday September 14. Besides dinner, there will be an entertainment program with the help of local artists. Earlier in a dispatch in this paper it was
Sad demise of Shantaben Bodiwala
S
uresh Bodiwala, a community activist and the head of Asian Media USA was bereaved with the sad demise of his mother Smt Shantaben Bodiwala on Thursday August 14 in Chicago at the age 92, fighting bravely for her life. Bodiwala said in a brief statement that "Shantaben always believed in and also set an example in practice of simple living and high thinking. Throughout life my mother taught me m a n y things: Respect, moral values, honoring, sincerity and ethnics. She will live for years to c o m e Shantaben Bodiwala within our hearts. May her soul rest in peace..." Shantaben was a grandmother and great grandmother and lived to see her great grandchildren [4th generation]. She was cremated at Boheminan National Cemetery in Chicago on August 18 in the presence of a large number of grieving family members, friends and relatives.
reported that the event would be a part of India Day celebrations but Gurbachan Kaur said that this is specifically for "our national language Hindi" and India Consulate has been kind enough to extend its patronage to it The Club has been active in its mission to promote Hindi here and one of the offshoots is the setting up of Hindi Kavi Munch. It organizes frequent events and they are very well received by members of the Indian community.
Illinois Governor with other local and state Lawmakers with a sizeable number of Pakistani community participating in the Parade
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August 22, 2014
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Festival of India showcases Pride, Parade & Passion Cont’d from page 18
Jose Esteves Mayor Milpitas and Dr Japra
Festivities included cultural programs, rides for the younger children, food booths and dance competitions on both days, and a bazaar with more than 110 stalls selling everything from clothing to spices. The Festival of India, besides having the entertainment factor, is the best platform to market your business. The festival offers an opportunity for businesses to provide support, patronage and encourage events that increase and strengthen the cultural diversity and community involvement. There were around 110 trade booths and 15 food booths. The trade booths catered to wide range of businesses starting from fashion jewelry, clothing, mend designers, real estate, insurance, credit union etc. There were stalls carrying multi-colored and elaborately patterned fabrics of saris, shawls and kurtas; intricately designed bangles, toe rings, anklets and earrings. FIA meal is one stop shop for all Indian designer needs. Some of the vendors have been seen in the FIA meal for over 15 years. Food booths offered a variety of delicacies from North and South India. The food stalls included Chole Bhature by Go Chattz, mouth watering Dosas by Anandha Bhavan, authentic Hyderabad Biryani by Peacock, to name a few. Paranthas from Delhi, Pongal from Madras, Vada Pav from Mumbai and sweets from Kolkata were all served under one roof. Later in the day Grand Marshal Ayushmann Khurana and Co-Grand Marshal Esha Deol adorned the stage and this was followed by welcome speeches by Dr Romesh Japra, Rajesh Verma and Yogi Chugh. Sponsors who made this event possible were Wells Fargo, Bank of the West, Chase Bank, Robson Homes, Aapka Colors, AT&T, Comcast, CEFCU, Kaiser Permanante, Vonage, McDonald's, P G & E, Nurture Kids, Peter Kuo for Senate, Sunnyvale Hindu Temple to name a few. Commenting on the success of the Festival, Dr Romesh Japra, Convenor of FIA and Rajesh Verma, President FIA said, "This is our way of passing on the torch of our pride in our traditions to the future generations of American Indian youth." Festival of India is unmatched in performance, participation and organization by dynamic and talented spirit of Asian Indians.
L to R: Christopher Salin, Joe Ramana Raju, Deepak Prashar, Dharminder, Yogi Chug, Chandru Bhambra, Jose Esteves, Manorama Joshi, Sonia Sidhu & Kamal Nair
August 22, 2014
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Festival of India showcases Pride, Parade & Passion
TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS
1 Galliyan: Ek Villian 2 Banjaara: Ek Villian 3 Saturday Saturday: Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania 4 Caller Tune: Humshakals www.indiapost.com
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August 22, 2014
5 Fugly Fugly Kya Hai: Fugly 6 Aaj Phir Tumpe: Hate Story 2 7 Samjhawan: Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania 8 Raat Bhar: Heropanti 9 Johnny Johnny: Its Entertainment 10 Humdard: Ek Villain
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ani Mukherji says she does not want her director-producer hus band Aditya Chopra to direct her ever as she cannot take his orders. The acclaimed director and the actress married in a quiet wedding in Italy in April this year. "I have told him (Aditya) not to direct me. I don't think I will be able to take his directions. A director is the captain of the ship and an actor has to work profession-
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diti Rao Hydari, the 28 year old Bollywood diva, recently wondered why female actresses are paid less than the male actors "when we put in equal efforts. The recent past has shown that actresses can deliver a hit film. We deserve better pay, equal to what actors get." Aditi's performance in films such as 'Delhi 6' and 'Rockstar' were appreciated by the critics and the masses alike. Aditi felt that more and more women oriented films are getting produced in Bollywood now a days and they are getting good response from the audience as well. Recently the two women oriented
ally with the director. There are times when the director can shout at actors," Rani said in an interview. Rani, who is seen playing a cop in YRF's Mardaani has earlier worked with the banner in several films. "I think I would be happy playing the role of a wife for him. So, I can tell him what to do... and would not like to take his orders. It's better I work with him as a director (at home)," the 36-year-old actress said.
films 'Queen' and 'Bobby Jasoos' got a good response from the movie buffs. However, the disparity in payment still remains at large. Actresses like Vidya Balan, Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif have spoken against this malpractice. Aditi said, "Hats off to these ladies for speaking about it because I think we need to address this. I remember in a film of mine, though both my co-star and I were newcomers, he got paid far better than me. I was shocked and appalled. I actually asked him what different are you doing that you are getting better paid!"
“We put in equal efforts. The recent past has shown that actresses can deliver a hit film. We deserve better pay, equal to what actors get.�
August 22, 2014
Bollywood
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arried to actor Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor says she is happy that unlike other married actresses she is still signing films opposite top-notch commercial actors like Salman Khan and Ajay Devgn. "I am getting the opportunity to work with Ajay and Salman and I don't think a lot of married actresses get that opportunity actually. They all get into the art zone space in films. They are still waiting for great scripts," Kapoor said in an interview here.In Singham Returns the 33-year-old romances
Ajay Devgn while in Kabir Khan's upcoming film Bajrangi Bhaijan, the love story of a Muslim man and Brahmin woman, she is cast opposite superstar Salman Khan. Marriage, she says, just doesn't come in the way "thankfully at least in my life. I am working with actors who can work with an 18-year-old girl. When Rohit Shetty approached me, he said I have written the role for you and I can't see anyone else doing those crazy things," she said, adding that she wants to have fun at this stage of her life.
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uperstar Shah Rukh Khan says he depends on his directors and feels actors should not be self obsessed. “I don’t think actors should be self obsessed and should think of reinventing them. A director’s vision is the most important for any actor. I am a director’s actor and try to give my best,” he said in an interview. The 48-year-old actor said he has reached a level where he can choose films where he can experiment as an actor. The actor’s life has been open to the world but he says there is another side to his personality, which he doesn’t want to show to the world. “My life is an open book. I am there on social networking sites and there are several things written about me. I am happy that people think they know everything about me but there is a side of me which no one knows. And I feel nobody needs to know about it,” he added.
„ Health
Line
Health coverage in jeopardy for 6,000 Ohioans COLUMBUS, Ohio: Some 6,000 Ohioans who signed up for the new health care law risk losing their taxpayer-subsidized insurance unless they act soon to resolve questions about their citizenship or immigration status, according to the federal government. The U.S. Health and Human Services Department said recently that those with outstanding documents are being warned that they have until Sept. 5 to show that they're eligible. Otherwise, their coverage will end Sept. 30. People living in the country illegally are not allowed to get coverage. Nationwide, more than 310,000 people whose citizenship or immigration details don't match what the government has on file have been notified that they must submit their information. The health agency said many haven't responded to repeated outreach efforts by mail, email and phone. The letters, which are being sent in English and Spanish, notify enrollees with unresolved issues that they still need to upload their documents to the HealthCare.gov website, or mail them. ``A data inconsistency does not necessarily mean there is a problem with an individual's eligibility for enrollment; it means that additional information is needed to verify the information provided in an application,'' federal officials said in a news release. -AP
„ Ohio agency urges vaccines as classes start COLUMBUS, Ohio: The Ohio Department of Health is urging parents to make sure children are up-to-date on vaccinations to protect them and their classmates as they begin a new school year. The department says children who aren't vaccinated have a higher risk of contracting and spreading illnesses such as measles and mumps. Ohio has dealt with outbreaks of both of those diseases this year. The mumps outbreak in central Ohio stood at 479 cases as of this week, with just over half of those cases linked to Ohio State University. Separately, the state says 377 cases of measles have been linked to an outbreak that began in Knox County. It started with Amish people who had traveled to the Philippines, which has had a measles epidemic. -AP
Health Science
Mississippi physicians want vote on smoking ban Details on Page 35
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August 22, 2014
Indian docs, govt launch portal to share healthcare expertise WASHINGTON: Indian-origin doctors across the globe have joined hands with the Indian government to launch a web portal for sharing expertise, skills, knowledge and resources with those in need of such services in India. The initiative has been described as a "match maker" between public and private medical institutions in India and from around the globe, who want to provide medical service to people in their "Janmabhoomi" (birth place). The website www.swaasthindia.gov.in - is a collaboration between Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, American Association of Physicians of India-origin USA (AAPI), Global Association of Physicians of Indian-origin (GAPIO), the British Association of Physicians of Indian-origin, UK, and the Apollo Hospital. "In this system, there, will be an input from both sides, the central and state governments, as
well as private organizations and hospital systems in India that will
medical camps and workshops from the India end," said Dr Ravi
Dr Seema Jain, president-elect of AAPI, said Swaasth India provides an online platform, offering information on requirements of government or NGO-run health and wellness programs in India to physicians of Indian-origin identify and upload all forums like meetings and conferences,
Jahagirdar, AAPI president. "From the Global side, the
healthcare provider currently limited to physicians, will register on to the website with their individual details. Similarly institutions worldwide can also offer their services through AAPI," he said. Dr Seema Jain, president-elect of AAPI, said Swaasth India provides an online platform, offering information on requirements of government or NGO-run health and wellness programs in India to physicians of Indian-origin from around the world, enabling them to enroll and support healthcare needs in villages, districts and states of their choice in India. The genesis of Swaasth India was during the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas (PBD 2010) in Jaipur. Most physicians of Indian-origin are passionate about doing something meaningful, about contributing towards the continued growth and advancement of India, AAPI said in a statement. PTI
Larger role for AYUSH medicos, paramedics BANGALORE: AYUSH medicos and paramedic and auxiliary workers in the country's health sector are all set to play a larger role in the National Health Mission, which is under revamp, Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Harsh Vardhan said here. "AYUSH medicos, paramedic and auxiliary workers in India's health sector will have a large role in the National Health Mission which is being revamped. I know the grievances of these highly valuable resources and would like to resolve their problems permanently," he said at the inauguration of five new medical laboratories here. The minister assured Karnataka that Center's projects in the state, including upgradation of three medical colleges, would be imple-
mented in the short to medium term. "We will implement central
short to medium-term," he said. He promised speedy detailed report on AIIMS project, follow-
Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan at the inauguration of Anvesana Research Laboratories at Swamy Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana
projects, including upgrading three medical colleges in Bangalore, Bellary and Hubli, in the
ing government's recommendation of three project sites. The Minister, who ended a
two-day tour of the state, said Karnakata has better-than-national-average health indicators. "Their professionalism and commitment to excellence serves as a ray of hope for the entire country," he said. Vardhan also spoke of benefits of yoga in combating noncommunicable diseases. "This is time for out-of-the-box solutions to India's health care problems," he said. He said it was time India packaged yoga for the new generation with solid laboratory-based evidence. "I am a man of western medicine, but have experienced the bountiful benefits of the therapeutic benefits of Yoga. It is time we packaged yoga for the new generation with solid laboratory based evidence," he said. -PTI
August 22, 2014
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'Asians, Latinos smoke more after migrating' WASHINGTON: Immigration to the US may improve your standard of living but it can also cause you to light up a cigarette more often, a new study suggests. The study from sociologists at Rice University, Duke University and the University of Southern California, focused on how gender differences in smoking behavior are shaped by aspects of acculturation and the original decision to migrate. "We know that after migrants come to the US, their health behavior and health status change the longer they live in the US," said Bridget Gorman, chair and professor of sociology at Rice and the study's lead author. "Our study examined how time spent in the US, along with other aspects reflective of acculturation to the US, relates to smoking behavior among Asian and Latino migrants," said Gorman. The study found that smoking prevalence among Asian immigrant men was more than four times that of Asian immigrant women (30.4 per cent and 7.1 per cent, respectively); among Latino immigrants, men's smoking preva-
lence was more than twice that of women's (29.5 per cent and 12.6 per cent, respectively). For smoking frequency, Asian men on average smoked 2.5 more cigarettes per day than Asian
However, the study also found that independent of time spent in the US, "immigrants who form strong connections to the US through English-language proficiency and citizenship acquisition benefit in
well-off migrants. Gorman also noted that although there "tends to be an uptick in unhealthy behaviors like smoking after migration, patterns differ across ethnic groups and between men and women. In particular, women's smoking behavior tends to increase more after
migration to the US than men." Gorman said the uptick in smoking among women may be due to differences in smoking stigma that exist for women in Latin America and especially Asia. The study was published in the journal Social Science & Medicine. -PTI
China has over 4.36 lakh HIV/AIDS patients For smoking frequency, Asian men on average smoked 2.5 more cigarettes per day than Asian women, compared with 1.5 more cigarettes per day that Latino men smoked than Latino women. women, compared with 1.5 more cigarettes per day that Latino men smoked than Latino women. In addition, their analyses also showed that smoking increases with duration of US residence among Asian immigrants (both prevalence and frequency) and among Latino immigrants (frequency only).
terms of reduced smoking." Gorman said this may be because the stresses associated with adapting to the US have declined; but since both English-language proficiency and citizenship are associated with higher socioeconomic standing, this might also indicate that smoking is lower among the most economically
BEIJING: Mortality rate of HIV/AIDS carriers dropped by 6.6 per cent last year in China due to effective use of free treatment while total number of patients stands at over 4.36 lakh, a top health official said here. About 1.36 lakh HIV/AIDS patients died from the disease, Wu Zunyou, head of the HIV/AIDS division of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said. Mortality for the disease dropped to 6.6 per cent last year from 17.9 per cent in 2005, he said. The decline in mortality is attributed to policies such as free
HIV tests for all and free treatment for rural and poor urban citizens, Wu added. Wu said that 95 per cent of confirmed HIV/AIDS patients are under follow-up care, staterun Xinhua news agency reported. Sex remains the major transmission channel for HIV, he said. Nearly 91 per cent of the newly reported HIV/AIDS patients in China in 2013 were infected through sexual contact. About 21.4 per cent of all new cases resulted from same-sex contact, compared with 2.5 per cent in 2006, Wu said. -PTI
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Parental influences on child begin before conception MELBOURNE: Kids born to unhealthy parents are already preprogrammed for greater risk of poor health, with higher odds of developing metabolic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease, scientists say. Researchers at the University of Adelaide say environmental factors prior to conception have more influence on the child's future than previously thought. "This really is a new frontier for reproductive and developmental research," said Professor Sarah Robertson, corresponding author and Director of the University's Robinson Research Institute. The research concludes that parental influences on a child begin before conception, because stored environmental factors in the egg and sperm are contributing more than just genetic material to the child. "Many things we do in the lead up to conceiving is having an impact on the future development
of the child - from the age of the parents, to poor diet, obesity, smoking and many other factors, all of which influence environmental signals transmitted into the
The reality is, we can now say with great certainty that the child doesn't quite start from scratch they already carry over a legacy of factors from their parents' experiences embryo," Robertson said. "People used to think that it didn't matter, because a child represented a new beginning, with a fresh start. The reality is, we can now say with great certainty that the child doesn't quite start from
scratch - they already carry over a legacy of factors from their parents' experiences that can shape development in the fetus and after birth. Depending on the situation, we can give our children a burden before they've even started life," said Robertson. This includes a higher risk of metabolic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The likelihood of conditions like anxiety and immune dysfunction can also be affected. Robertson says current research is also showing that the fathers have a much greater role to play in this than previously thought. "A few lifestyle changes by potential parents and improvements in the right direction, especially in the months leading up to conception, could have a lasting, positive benefit for the future of their child," Robertson said. The research was published in the journal Science. -PTI
Some skin creams may contain toxic mercury WASHINGTON: Some people slather and even inject creams containing mercury onto or under their skin to lighten it, putting themselves and others at risk for serious health problems, scientists say. Researchers say they can now identify these creams and intervene much faster than before. "In the US, the limit on mercury in products is 1 part per million," said Gordon Vrdoljak, of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). "In some of these creams, we've been finding levels as high as 210,000 parts per million - really substantial amounts of mercury. If people are using the product quite regularly, their hands will exude it, it will get in their food, on their counter-tops, on the sheets their kids sleep on," said Vrdoljak. Identifying the toxic products has been a slow process, however. So, Vrdoljak turned to an instrument that uses a technique called total reflection x-ray fluorescence.
He found that the machine can screen product samples for mercury content far more efficiently, and just as accurately, as its wellestablished but time-consuming counterpart. That means the team can iden-
tify the sources of mercury poisoning and help those affected much faster than before. "Testing one product using the old technique could take days," Vrdoljak said. "Using the new instrument, I can run through 20 or 30 samples in a day quite easily. By identify-
ing those products that contain mercury, we can direct people to remove them and clean up their households," he said. Although the metal does lighten skin, dark spots and even acne, research has shown that the silvery liquid can cause a number of health problems, including lower cognitive functioning, kidney damage, headaches, fatigue, hand tremors, depression and other symptoms. As a result, the US and many other countries have set low limits on or have banned mercury in consumer products. But demand is high among certain populations for these skin-lightening products, researchers said. The work has led to two product recalls earlier this year, but often, they find the cosmetics are homemade and come in unmarked containers, researchers said. The research was presented at the National Meeting & Exposition of the American Chemical Society (ACS) in San Francisco. PTI
Cambridge varsity scouting for 'doctor of chocolate' LONDON: For the first time, Cambridge University is offering a chance to scientists and chocolate fans to indulge their sweet tooth by becoming a 'doctor of chocolate' and find ways to keep chocolate-based food from melting in warm climates. The Department of Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology
Cambridge University
of Cambridge University is seeking a researcher for a PhD on chocolate. "An industrial, fully-funded 3.5-year PhD studentship is available to study the fundamentals of heat-stable chocolate," the advertisement says. The challenge of the successful candidate is to stop chocolate melting in warm climates by studying the "fundamentals of heatstable chocolate" that could boost the profits of chocolate companies, which last year sold confectionary items worth over USD 85 billion.
Candidates wishing to study chocolate need to apply by August 29. The salary has not been specified. Due to funding regulations, the studentship is only available to EU nationals, the advertisement says. Europe accounts for 45 per cent of the world's chocolate revenue. The would-be doctor of chocolate will be expected to "investigate the factors which allow chocolate, which has a melting point close to that of the human body, to remain solid and retain qualities sought by consumers when it is stored and sold in warm climates", it says. The research project is "mainly experimental", but will require good mathematical skills, the advertisement says. The applicants must have experience in experimental investigations and at least four years of study at University level and a high 2:1 or equivalent degree in a relevant discipline such as physics, chemistry, materials science or engineering. Though chocolate is very sensitive to temperature and humidity, it has become one of the most popular food types and flavors in the world. -PTI
Illinois law limiting medical marijuana locations SPRINGFIELD, Ill.: State restrictions are largely limiting potential sites for growing and selling medical marijuana in Illinois' capital city. And it's likely the rules could have a similar impact in other communities. The (Springfield) State JournalRegister reports Springfield officials are considering zoning for medical cannabis cultivation centers and dispensaries. Illinois' medical cannabis pilot program prohibits dispensaries within 1,000 feet of a school, day care center or child care facility. Cultivation centers must be 2,500 feet away. Dispensaries and cultivation centers also are banned from residential areas. In Springfield, maps prepared by planning officials show small
pockets of centrally located areas could accommodate a dispensary.
But much of the city will be offlimits. Still, a local lobbyist says at least one group of investors is eyeing a site for a Springfield dispensary. -AP
August 22, 2014
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Mississippi physicians want E-healthcare fast catching vote on smoking ban public attention JACKSON, Miss.: Having failed to persuade lawmakers to ban smoking in public places, the Mississippi State Medical Association now wants lawmakers to put the question to voters. The association, which represents Mississippi's 4,700 physicians, announced it will gather petition signatures in doctors' offices asking the 2015 Legislature to set a referendum. ``We hope we get 100,000 people or maybe 50,000 people,'' said Dr. Steve Demetropoulos of Pascagoula, immediate past president of the association. ``We're doing this to demonstrate support at a greater level than we have in the past.''
taurants. Casinos could also be covered, although that has been a point of particular debate. In 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 24 percent of Mississippi adults are smokers, tied for the sixth-highest rate among the 50 states. Nationwide, 19.6 percent of adults were smokers, with the lowest rate in Utah, where 10.6 percent were. State Health Officer Mary Currier has said a smoking ban could quickly cut heart disease and heart attacks by 25 percent statewide. ``This is the single most important thing we can do to improve the health of Mississippians,'' Demetropolous said. But some lawmakers are loath to interfere with the rights of business owners to regulate their own prop``I don't like to play Big Brother,'' Senate Public erty. Health Committee Chairman Dean Kirby, R- like``Ito don't play Pearl, told Mississippi Public Broadcasting in Big Brother,'' 2013. ``I don't like looking over people's shoul- Senate Public Health Comder and telling them what to do and what not to mittee Chairdo when they are only hurting themselves and man Dean Kirby, Rnot hurting other people.'' Pearl, told Mississippi It's not a petition campaign to force an Public Broadcasting in 2013. ``I don't like election on a state constitutional amend- looking over people's shoulder and telling ment, which would require more than them what to do and what not to do when 100,000 signatures of registered voters, but they are only hurting themselves and not an effort to persuade lawmakers to call a hurting other people.'' vote on their own. Demetropolous said that polling conIndoor smoking bans have failed mul- ducted for the association shows that suptiple times in the Mississippi legislature, port among Mississippians for an indoor although 84 Mississippi towns and cities smoking ban is rising. He noted that similar have passed them. Fewer than 25 percent opposition to requiring seat belts once of Mississippians are covered by smoke- flourished in Mississippi, and few publicly free workplace laws, according to the medi- oppose that law now. cal association. ``Momentum is building,'' he said. Proposed bans would typically cover ``We've just got to get our legislators public buildings, workplaces, bars and res- caught up with public opinion.'' -AP
Ocean Springs faces sanctions for rejecting clinic OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss.: The U.S. Justice Department has ruled that the City of Ocean Springs violated the Americans With Disabilities Act and discriminated people with mental disabilities in when it denied the Psycamore mental health clinic a permit to operate. The Mississippi Press reports that federal authorities have told Ocean Springs that it will face legal action if it doesn't pay damages, including expenses and lost profits, to
Psycamore and others. That amount could be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. The Justice Department also wants the city to grant Psycamore its permit, hire a fulltime disabilities coordinator and train staff and elected officials on legal requirements of disability law. Psycamore won an appeal in Jackson County Circuit Court, and the state Supreme Court unanimously rejected Ocean Springs' appeal in 2013. -AP
NEW DELHI: With internet penetration increasing rapidly, e-healthcare in India is fast catching public attention and is poised to contribute significantly to the overall healthcare market, industry experts said. "Currently the overall health care market in India is about USD 150 billion. But the way internet penetration and awareness about health care is increasing in India, the e-health care services would grow at a very healthy rate. I expect that very soon, it would contribute about 2 per cent in the overall health care sector," Credihealth Managing Director Ravi Virmani told PTI. The government is also in the process of starting an e-healthcare service that will intensify health awareness in the country. E-healthcare services include helping people contact and interact with good doctors, buying medicines and taking e-prescriptions. Credihealth, which is a web portal, provides wide range of services like health tests at discounted rates, searching different doctors across the country and arranging direct interactions with medical professionals. Sharing similar views, another industry expert said that though the e-health care sector is at nascent stage, it will register
phenomenal growth in the coming years. "Use of internet and mobile phones will push the growth of the sector. It will have a favorable share in the overall health care industry," Vivek Srivastava, CEO of Health Care at Home India said. Further, Virmani said that e-healthcare also helps in increasing transparency in the sector as this is eliminating the role
E-healthcare services include helping people contact and interact with good doctors, buying medicines and taking e-prescriptions. of middlemen engaged in the segment. "We have started virtual clinics where a patient can directly interact with a doctor. We also provide rate lists for different medicines and tests. It helps people in comparing prices," he said, adding that thousands of people are accessing the web portal to avail the services. -PTI
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Realty Tidbits
Maha assures housing for middle income group MUMBAI: Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan has said the state government will ensure that middle income group people are able to afford their own houses. "It is very difficult for the common man to own a house in Mumbai or at other big cities in Maharashtra. For this, we have decided to work towards a goal of ensuring affordable houses. And it will be ensured that it happens at the earliest," he said. The Chief Minister was speaking after unfurling the tricolor at the Mantralaya here to mark the 68th Independence Day. Chavan added that the government will make Maharashtra an "online" state in the next five years that will reduce corruption and help citizens avail government facilities. -PTI
„ Pharande launches township project in Pune MUMBAI: Real estate firm Pharande Spaces has launched a luxury township project - Puneville - at Pune in Maharashtra. Spread across 40 acres, the township project will have 16 ultra-luxury residential towers of 23 storeys each with 2, 3 and 4 BHK apartments, a release issued here said. Puneville has been designed by Aedas, the architects of ultraluxury hotels in Las Vegas and Macau, Shanghai's Financial Centre and Singapore's Marina Bay Sands, it said. "The distinctly futuristic design and specifications are not just a fashion statement, but a standard of living that speaks of what is to come over the coming decades," Pharande Spaces Chairman Anil Pharande said. The township project will also have a state-of-the-art hospital, first-class international school and high-end commercial office complexes for corporate occupiers. -PTI
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Indians top investors in Dubai real estate sector DUBAI: Indians have been ranked first among foreign investors in Dubai's real estate sector, making a total of 4,417 transactions worth nearly USD 3 billion in the first half of the year, according to an official report. Indians, British and Pakistanis ranked top three foreign investors in Dubai's real estate market with a combined share of Dh20.83 billion for 9,739 transactions in the first half of the year, according to the report by the Dubai Land Department (DLD). The DLD's list included the amount of real estate transactions conducted by foreign nationals, with investors from India, Pakistan, Britain, Canada, Russia, China, USA, France and Afghanistan involved in 14,231 property deals worth a total of Dh 30.533 billion for the first half of 2014.
Indian nationals were ranked first for foreign investment, making a total of 4,417 transactions worth Dh 10.523 billion (USD 2.865 billion), Khaleej Times reported. British investors were in sec-
transactions worth Dh 4.5 billion. Iranian and Canadian investors came in at fourth and fifth place, with transactions worth Dh2.7 billion and Dh1.9 billion respectively.
ond place with 3,258 transactions worth Dh5.811 billion, followed by Pakistani investors with 3,064
Citizens from Russia, US and China occupied sixth, seventh and eighth places respectively, creat-
ing more than one billion dirhams worth of property invested in each category of national. "We are extremely proud of these positive results, as they reflect a building momentum in Dubai's real estate market which has now reasserted itself on both the regional and global stage. We are certain that the future will see even more demand, especially in light of the government's declaration of forthcoming major projects," said Sultan Butti bin Mejren, Director-General of DLD. The government organization accompanied their announcement with a breakdown of nationalities making property investments in the first six months of 2014, which reported that Jordanians topped the list of Arab investors, with Indian nationals ranked first for foreigner investment. -PTI
GSI recommends new township near Kedarnath DEHRADUN: The Geological Survey of India has suggested construction of a new township near Kedarnath after demolishing the ruins of the old one close to the Himalayan shrine. The GSI submitted a report to the state government in this regard giving a detailed map for constructing a new Kedarpuri which was witness to massive destruction of life and property during the 2013 calamity, an official release here said.
Submitted by GSI Deputy Director General T S Pangti to Chief Sectetary Subhash Kumar, the report suggests not to disturb the huge boulder which came rolling down from nowhere on the fateful day and stopped just a couple of meters short of the rear portion of
the temple as if to protect it from being directly hit by the deluge. The GSI has also recommended measures to further strengthen the boulder where it stands today so that it functions even in the future as a protective wall against natural calamities.
The report suggests erecting a new township near the temple after demolishing the dilapidated structures which formed part of the old township known as Kedarpuri. It has also suggested measures to stop erosion along Mandakini's left flank which may pose some danger besides creation of enough water outlets and construction of pre-fabricated residences for priests on the slopes in front of the shrine. The report is based on the recommendations of the task force constituted by the GSI to study reconstruction around the famous Himalayan shrine. -PTI
Davenport residents object to cell tower in park DAVENPORT, Iowa: Davenport residents upset over a cellphone tower placed in the middle of a city park say they believe city officials did not follow local laws and regulations in approving the structure. The 180-foot tower is being built by AT&T in Emeis Park. Despite a
city ordinance requiring new cell towers to go through a zoning board for a special-use permit, the city legal department deemed the permitting unnecessary, the QuadCity Times reported. Two city aldermen Ray Ambrose and Rick Dunn said city
officials made mistakes in allowing the tower to be built in the park. But City Administrator Craig Malin countered that every City Council member knew of the project and none objected to it. He also said the city's legal department signed off on it. -AP
August 22, 2014
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Real estate trust to need insurance cover NEW DELHI: To safeguard investors' interest, new norms for the launch of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) in India will require such bodies to take adequate insurance cover for their realty assets and bar them from promising any guaranteed returns. The detailed norms, to be made public soon, will also contain strict provisions for any misleading claims and will require them to a strict 10-point code of conduct for fair business practices. Besides, any change in the sponsor group of these Trusts, which will be listed on stock exchanges and their units can be traded like any other security, would need approval from a vast majority of unitholders. Failing that, they would need to be given an exit option from the new sponsor. At the same time, regulator Sebi has decided to keep the disclosure requirements and overall regulatory compliance
mechanism simpler for REITs, while registration fees would also be on lower side vis-a-vis other instruments to raise funds from the capital markets. The new REIT regulations, which were cleared by Sebi's board on August 10, would be notified soon after necessary fine-tuning, a senior official said. The new norms would allow formation of REITs to invest largely in completed and income-generating real estate assets and the subsequent listing of such trusts with an initial public offer (IPO) of at least Rs 250 crore. The value of total assets of such trusts would need to be Rs 500 crore, while at least 25 per cent of total number of units would need to be offered to the public investors. These Trusts would not be allowed to invest in vacant land or agriculture land, while any deviation from their stated investment objective would need clearance from their unit-holders, as per the norms
Housing for all will require $ 2 trillion tainable growth. For this, we will need additional investments of USD 1.5 trillion," he said. The government's move to introduce Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) would provide much-needed liquidity to developers, he said. To support investment requirements, banks need to increase their exposure to the sector, since funds available from private equity funds or other sources are costly, he said. "Currently, banks' exposure to the sector is merely five per cent. Liquidity is a serious challenge for developers and routes like private equity are costly as they expect higher returns. This increases the cost of the project. Therefore, we are also in talks with the Reserve Bank to allow banks to fund these projects," he said. Mantri said that Investment in the sector needs to grow by around 20 per cent banks should also be allowed to fund land buytate Development Council (NAREDCO) ing, which is almost 60 per cent of the project cost. President Sunil Mantri told reporters here. "If we are allowed bank loan for buying Investment in the sector needs to grow by around 20 per cent to achieve the target, land, the cost of the project will come down he said. to a certain extent and we will be able to India has an urban housing shortage of create more affordable housing stock," he about 18.7 million units, with 95 per cent of said, adding that "the real estate sector has this shortfall in the low- cost housing seg- the least (non-performing assets) NPAs". Besides demanding "industry status" for ment, and 43.7 million in the rural belt. "Apart from creating houses, there is also the sector, the real estate industry body is a need to develop supporting infrastructure also seeking government support for deand commercial real estate to achieve sus- veloping projects. -PTI MUMBAI: Investments to the tune of more than USD 2 trillion would be required by 2022 to create a stock of over 110 million housing units and achieve the target of "housing for all", an industry official said here. "There is already a huge shortage of housing and if we have to achieve Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of housing for all by 2022, we will need an investment of at least USD 2 trillion to create more than 110 million units," National Real Es-
finalized by Sebi. The sponsor or its associates would also need at least five years of experience in development of real estate on fund management in real estate industry, while the
new norms also prescribe eligibility conditions for manager of the Trust. The manager would need to arrange or ensure that the real estate assets of the REIT, or through a Special Purpose Vehicle, have "adequate insurance coverage". The sponsors would also need to ensure that they hold at least 25 per cent of
total units for at least three years after the listing, while they would have to maintain at least 15 per cent holding at all times. The 10-point Code of Conduct for REITs, as prescribed by Sebi, include conduct of all affairs in the interest of unit-holders, "adequate, accurate, explicit and timely disclosure of relevant material information", avoidance of any conflict of interest as far as possible or ensure appropriate disclosure and fairness in charging any fees. Other points include carrying out of business and investments as per the stated and disclosed objectives, high standards of integrity and fairness in all dealings and exercise of due diligence, proper care and independent professional judgments at all times. -PTI
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gartala, the capital of Tripura, is arguably one of the most diversely populated cit ies of India. Tripura has always been a home to various mixes of tribes and all these tribal amalgamations have led to an influx of people representing their own clan. Agartala, with its verdant forest cover, near perfect green backdrop, great tourist sites and laid back attitude presents a sight of an ideal tourist destination. The rich and varied tribal culture thriving on the high mountains and vast and alluring green valley adds its own charm to the attraction of the state. Propelled into limelight after Maharaja Krishna Manikya shifted the state capital here in the 19th century, Agartala is not only forests, hills, lakes and wildlife sanctuaries. This city presents life in a totally distinctive way, very unlike the life we in our so called big cities endure. Replete with religious and historical monuments directly involving great personalities like Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, Agartala presents a new-fangled aspect of tourism to the visitors for exploration. Located at an altitude of 3,600 ft above the sea level is the highest peak of Agartala region, Beltingchhip (32 km from Vanghmun). Agartala city, though the most developed in the state, is still a far distance away from the other metros in the country. Thus one can be assured of a pleasant and clean atmosphere, fresh air and unpolluted minds throughout the year. The city is the central market for
www.indiapost.com various commercial goods (tea, rice, jute and oilseed) for the surrounding region. A stroll down the market is a must for the ardent shoppers for the sheer variety of handicraft and woolen articles for display and sale. Watch out for the tribal ladies with their special wares roaming the market and clinch a steal you will remember for your life.
Agartala city, though the most developed in the state, is still a far distance away from the other metros in the country. Thus one can be assured of a pleasant and clean atmosphere, fresh air and unpolluted minds throughout the year ATTRACTIONS Kunjaban Palace: The Kunjaban Palace (formerly known as the Pushbanta Palace) constructed in 1927 for the King Birendra Kishore Manikya (retreat/ recreation palace) is a marvelous monument which reflects the rich and artistic taste of the
August 22, 2014 erstwhile ruler. The palace was handed over to the Government after dissolution of the monarchy and is presently being utilized as the official residence of the Governor of the State of Tripura. Neermahal: Neermahal, (Water Palace) located at a distance of around 53 km from Agartala was built as a summer resort for the erstwhile King Maharaja Bir Bikram Kishore Manikya in 1930. The Palace situated right at the center of the Rudrasagar Lake (6 Sq km water body) is a magnificent piece of engineering. The amazing Hindu and Islamic architectural fusion is a rare sight and a pleasing one too. Ujjayanta Palace: The heart of the city of Agartala presents the Ujjayanta Palace, the famous royal house, beautifully carved and sculpted in Indo-Greek style. Constructed by Maharaja RadhakishoreIan Manikaya in 1901 the palace is nicely located within a huge garden and adorned with pools and fountains. This three storied monument has three high domes with two large tanks on both sides and the fountains (Musical Fountain or Dance of Fountain is a must see) laid out similar to the Mughal Gardens. Chittangong Hills: The hills and valleys have always enchanted the human mind however the spectacle presented by the Chittangong Hills spread over a vast region simply sweeps the onlooker off the feet. Cont’d on page 42
Ujjayanta Palace
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AGARTALA
Rich tribal culture thrives on the high mountains Cont’d from page 41
The hills (as they are inappropriately called) are actually a series of mini mountains deep and far stretching valleys and a mini canyon formed by the mishmash of seven rivers. The rivers, Feni, Karnafuli, Chengi, Myani, Kassalong, Sangu and Matamuhuri cavort and gambol across the valley presenting an enchanting dance of frolic and fun
across the ranges. Jampui Hill: The Jampui hills are also famously known as "the eternal hills of spring". Situated at a distance of 240 kms from Agartala, the hills are a treasure trove of a wide variety of Orchids, oranges and a heavenly mix of scenic splendor. The place of eternal spring proves worthy of its name due to the fact that the seasons never turn their uglier side towards the Jampui hills. The best comfort
and weather is available throughout the year. Raima Valley: The Raima Valley, also known as the mother of the tribals of Tripura is actually a huge volume of enclosed space created due to the formation of a pleat within the mountain folds permitting the commissioning of the Gumti hydel project on the Raima River. This project caters for augmenting deficit power supply of the state and has a large catch-
Chittangong Hills
ment of water within the Raima valley. The area in general and the Raima valley in particular has seen development as a favored tourist spot over last decade. Gondacherra Wildlife Sanctuary: Gondacherra Wild Life Sanctuary is a good place to forget all your worries and get lost in the pleasing green forest and pure atmosphere of nature at its primitive best. The wildlife sanctuary provides an opportunity to travel deep inside the park where, untouched by human interference, the natural habitat of many inhabitant animal (tiger, bison, deer, various primates, even a few wild horses) has created a world straight out of Time Travel movies. Apart from the forestry few water bodies along the sanctuary act as the attracting magnets for the inliving as well as the migratory birds. Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary: The Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary is located at a distance of 35 km from Agartala. Spread over an area of 18.5 sq km the Sanctuary boasts of abounding congregation of wildlife, especially birds and primates. The Sanctuary also houses a botanical garden, zoo, a lake and abundance of diverse species of trees. The terrain is absolutely green throughout the year and so is the beautiful weather except for the two humid summer months of
Raima Valley
March and April. Buddha Temple: The Buddha Temple, popularly known as the Buddha Mandir, is located at the heart of the city. The temple is one of the important religious centers and provides ample evidence regarding the influence of Buddhism on the populace. The shrine houses two beautiful idols of Buddha and Bodhisattva. The peaceful and serene idols are believed to have a Burmese origin. Shifted
Kunjaban Palace
from the Royal palace, the idols adopted their new home, the Buddha Temple constructed in 1946. Jagannath Temple: The city of Agartala was chosen above Udaipur as the capital by the Manikyas. The Manikyas preferred to decorate the city and adorned it with specially created monuments and beauty spots. The jagganath Dighi lake is one such ornamental lake specially created. Cont’d on page 43
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White water rafting boost Thailand ranks No. 1 in beachfront hotels to Goa tourism VALPOI (Goa): The white waters of Mandovi River in Goa's North Eastern terrain have emerged as an alternative ground for tourism, attracting those looking for adventure. The three-season-old white water rafting adventure introduced by state-run Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC)
develop compared to the foreign. You don't have to be dependent on border notification," he told PTI. The facility in Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, eight kms away from Valpoi town, was started in 2011 by Pollard after his successful stint in the wilds of Dandeli (Karnataka) and Kollad (Maharashtra).
in association with British adventure sports expert John Pollard has been receiving increasing tourist footfalls in the state's Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary. New Yorkshire-born Pollard, who was the first to introduce white water rafting in South of Himalayas, feels that people are now getting more interested in adventure tourism and this market is mostly riding on its popularity among domestic markets. "People are getting more interested in adventure tourism. Indian market is something that you can
The adventurist who started his company, Southern River Adventure and Sports Private Limited, along with his Goa-born wife Sylvia Kerkar, feels that it was a bit tough initially to try out this facility on the Mhadei River. "The road access to the start point was a bit difficult, so also was to get the nod for the project by the state government. There were apprehensions that some foreigner with a multinational company is coming here to make money but that was not the case," says Pollard.
On a long Independence Day weekend, Pollard says they were busy days as several tourists turned up to enjoy rafting. "But it is not the same every day," he said, adding "two and half month season is what we are hoping but it may be less if it rains less. It is a very difficult business to make commercially viable." The rafting takes place when rains are at its best in the Western Ghats, and for rest of the months, the rafts are on the banks. The ten-kilometer stretch covered in the raft traverses through Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary with sightings of Indian Bison (Goa's state animal) and Wild Guar, often. "Since there is lot of water in the forest during the rainy season, the wild animals don't venture near the river bank," said Pollard, who has been receiving a lot of youngsters and family tourists for the venture. The young crowd at the sanctuary is usually from places like Mumbai, Delhi and Hyderabad. Pollard says that there are one or two other stretches in Goa where the venture is possible, but it is like similar time scale of two months that you can do rafting. "May be in South Goa there are one or two places but I find this as a better stretch because it has got larger volume of water and even if there is less rainfall, it keeps going a bit longer," he said. -PTI
BANGKOK: Experiencing a dramatic surge in tourism, Thailand has surpassed the United States in the number of hotels truly set on its beaches, according to a survey of more than 11,000 hotels in 109 countries. The Southeast Asian country ranked first with more than 1,250 beachfront properties, followed by
defines true beachfront hotels as those directly on the beach or oceanfront with no road or traffic between the rooms and the water. Thailand also ranked first for total beachfront accommodations within a single beach destination. Its Samui Island has 270, ahead of Riviera Maya in Mexico with 250, Crete with 194 and Mallorca with 187.
the United States with 1,016 and Mexico with 943. Spain, with 736, was fourth, trailed by the Philippines, Greece, Italy, Turkey, Egypt and Sri Lanka, said the survey by the Beachfront Club, a website that maps and details seaside hotels around the world. The Bangkok-based website
Despite recent political violence, tourist arrivals in Thailand have soared by 88 percent over the past five years to nearly 27 million in 2013, ranking it among the top 10 most visited countries in the world. Its shores face both the Pacific and Indian oceans with hundreds of islands in each. -AP
AGARTALA Cont’d from page 42
Goa eyes 40 lakh tourist arrivals in 2014 NEW DELHI: Goa Tourism is eyeing the number of tourist arrivals in the state to touch up to 40 lakh in 2014, an increase of 15 per cent from the previous year. Apart from promoting local festivals such as Carnival, Shigmo and Goa Heritage Festival, the state is also hard selling itself as a wedding destination. "We are looking the tourist arrivals to reach up to 40 lakh this year, a growth of 15 per cent from
2013. During last year Goa had 31.50 lakh arrivals," Goa Tourism Development Corporation Managing Director Nikhil Desai told PTI. This will be achieved by initiatives undertaken and planned by the Goa Tourism and also due to the decennial exposition of the holy relics of St Francis Xavier from November 22, 2014 to January 4, 2015, he added. "Goa Tourism is focusing on initiatives to highlight
Goa as a destination for festival tourism, weddings, leisure, MICE, adventure and for charters," Desai said. With an aim to promote Goa as a year round destination he said efforts are being made to further popularize the state's local festivals in the rest of the country. PTI
The shores of this pond play host to the Jagannath temple. The idol of Neelmadhav/ Lord Jagannath at Puri is believed to have been donated from this temple. The temple overlooking the Jagannath Dighi lake shows heavy inclination towards Islamic style of architecture and design. Ummaneshwar Temple: The Ujjayanta Palace milieu houses various temples revered by the populace. The temples of Jagannath and Ummaneshwar are located opposite each other on the green stretches of grass within the palace yard. Culturally and geographically Tripura identifies itself more with West Bengal than the other North Eastern states. Thus it is common to find gods, goddess and temples resembling each other in these two states. Unakoti: The amazing rock cut carvings and stone images at Unakoti (less than 10 million in Bengali), are located at a distance
of 175 kms from Agartala. The archaeologists claim that Unakoti was a Shaivite holy spot in the 8th9th centuries. The story goes that Lord Shiva was going to Kashi with one crore gods and goddesses. During night halt at this location Shiva asked all gods and goddesses to wake up prior to sun rise. BEST TIME TO VISIT Agartala is a place where one can experience moderate weather all through the year. The place can be visited any time the year but the best season is from September to May. HOW TO REACH By Air: Agartala airport is connected to Indian cities Kolkata and Guwahati. Other metro cities can be reached via Kolkata. By Bus: There are many road routes to reach Agartala from Kolkata and Guwahati. By Train: Nearest railway stations are Kumarghat, about 160 km from Agartala and Dharmanagar, 200 km away.
In Brief Lawyer says immigrants treated like Guantanamo EL PASO, Texas: A lawyer helping Central American immigrants housed at a temporary center in southern New Mexico compared the legal limbo of immigrants there to those at a U.S. military prison in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Attorney Pamela MuĂŻoz said at a news conference that like prisoners at Guantanamo, the immigrants at the center in Artesia, New Mexico, are in a legal limbo, without formal charges and without due process, the El Paso Times reported. Guantanamo has housed prisoners allegedly connected with al-Qaida and other groups since the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks in New York and Washington. Leticia Zamarripa, a spokeswoman for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which oversees the detention center in Artesia, said the facility and other similar ones operate in an open environment, which includes play rooms, social workers and access to legal counsel. MuĂŻoz and other advocates at Las Americas Immigrant Advocacy Center in El Paso alleged that the women and children from Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador are being fast-tracked out of the United States under the guise that they pose threats to national security. The facility is about 200 miles northeast of El Paso. -AP
„ Man sentenced in Phoenix for green card fraud PHOENIX: Federal authorities say a Mexican national has been sentenced to prison for manufacturing and selling fraudulent green cards and Social Security cards. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement said that 38-year-old Emilio Antonio-Bonifacio received a sentence this week of 15 months in federal prison. He will be on three years of supervised release following his sentence. In addition, he will have to turn over his personal computer and other equipment that was used to make the documents. Antonio-Bonifacio pleaded guilty June 3 to felony fraud. Prosecutors say he admitted to producing and selling six fake green cards and six false Social Security cards in September 2013 for immigrants in the U.S. illegally. Antonio-Bonifacio told authorities he had been making and selling false identity documents for six years. -AP
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Advances in China and India categories Details on page 46
US Immigration Bill can lead to $30 bn loss to India NEW DELHI: The Indian economy could lose USD 30 billion annually with the IT industry being the hardest hit if the Immigration Bill under consideration in the US Congress becomes a law, Indian American Advisory Council of House Republican Conference of US Parliament has said. The IAAC, which advises US House of Representatives on India related issues, stated the 'US Immigration Bill S744' calls for significantly cutting down on outsourcing of work for certain visa holders that is mostly used by Indian firms and professionals. "If the bill becomes a law, then India's GDP gets reduced by about USD 30 billion a year. On top of that, employment situation will be badly hit. Direct impact will be 10 million Indian IT Professionals will no longer have any work and 500,000 in the US," IAAC Chairman Shalabh Kumar told PTI. He said most of the Indian IT professionals are either working on H1B or L1 visas. H1B Visa allows US companies to employ foreign professionals
and L1 allows employee of an international company to temporarily transfer an employee to a parent branch or subsidiary of the same company in the United States. The bill bans outplacement of
50 per cent by financial year 2017 ,starting October 2016. "About 98 per cent bill is focused on providing relief to 20 million Hispanic Americans. Democrats want them to give citizenship that will give them huge
Workers at their workstations on the floor of an outsourcing centre in Bangalore
H1 or L1 visa holders if they form more than 15 per cent of a firm's US workforce. It also limits the proportion of H1B and L1 visa workers relative to a firm's total US employees to
vote bank. If Democrats get that part of the bill passed, they will gain at least 10 senate seats and take control of the house," Kumar said. He said the clause that ad-
versely impacts India's interest was added in the bill following complaints by some American corporations and a poll campaign slogan - Say No to Bangalore and Yes to Buffalo - used by Barack Obama in 2009. "US mid-term Elections are due in November and the bill can be taken up anytime soon. It will not take more than 3 days if Democrats and Republican mutually agree to it. The Indian government is left with no time but to strongly raise its voice and set up official channels in US without delay," Kumar said. He claimed that India does not have a significant mindshare among US Parliamentarians and the effort made by it on the issue may not enough to make any impact. "For US Parliamentarians, India related issues are small. There are about 2 million eligible Indian origin people that can vote but hardly we have seen more than 30 per cent of them voting. India has no time now. It has to make its voice heard," Kumar said. -PTI
Possible immigration rift for Obama with Democrats WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama is facing potential rifts with members of his own party in tough re-election contests as he barrels toward a fall fight with Republicans over his ability to change immigration policies. If Obama takes the broadest action under consideration - removing the threat of deportation for millions of people in this country illegally - the short-term risks appear greatest for Senate Democrats in conservative-leaning states. Weeks before the November vote, they could find themselves on the hot seat for their views not only on immigration but also on Obama's use of his presidential powers. Wary of what could be coming, some of those lawmakers have said Obama should act with
caution. ``This is an issue that I believe should be addressed legislatively and not through executive order,'' said Sen. Kay Hagan, one of the top targets for Republicans trying to retake control of the Senate.
Sen. Mark Pryor, another vulnerable incumbent, said in a statement that he also is ``frustrated with the partisanship in Washington. But that doesn't give the president carte blanche authority to sidestep Congress when he
President Barack Obama speaks on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington about the ongoing situation in Iraq.
doesn't get his way.'' Such statements have immigration advocates on edge. A coalition of advocacy groups, in a letter to congressional Democrats, said immigrant families should not have to wait until after the November elections for relief. The organizations said any attempts by Democrats to delay or dilute administrative changes ``will be viewed as a betrayal of Latino and immigrant communities with serious and lasting consequences.'' The letter was released because of advocates' concerns that leading Senate Democrats may be shifting their positions because of political considerations after previously urging Obama to act. Cont'd on Page 45
Immigration Post
August 22, 2014
India Post 45
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Canada residency approval for Indians is 85% TORONTO: The friendship between Canada and India was stronger than ever before and both nations should continue to work to remove the barriers that hinder bilateral trade and investment, Prime Minister Stephen Harper has said. "The friendship between Canada and India is stronger, it is stronger than it has ever been and that is something that we all, in both of our countries, should be very proud of," Harper said while addressing a program to commemorate India's 68th Independence Day here last night. "The Government will continue to work to break-down barriers that hinder bilateral trade and investment, and that senior members of our Government will continue to visit India," Harper said. "Just a couple of years ago I had the great fortune of returning to India," Harper said adding that "because one trip was obviously not near enough to even to scratch the surface of that large, ancient and fascinating civilization". "Since taking office our Government has worked hard to revitalize and strengthen Canada-India relations. We have concluded a Social Security Agreement, an
historic Nuclear Cooperation Agreement, and we have launched our own bilateral Canada-India free trade negotiations," Harper said. Referring to Immigration Re-
granted more than fourteen thousand such visas. "More Indian students than ever before are studying at Canadian universities, and because our Government has made it easier for
‘The Indo-Canadian community comprises ordinary people doing extraordinary things in business and in finance, in academia and medicine, in technology and agriculture, forms, Harper said that the reforms have been working and they have been working well. "Today, the permanent residency approval rate for applicants from India is more than 85 per cent. I should add that these men and women don't have to wait another four or five or six years for their residency because our Government has reduced processing times for recent applicants down to just one year". He said that in 2005, fewer than twenty-five hundred student visas were granted to Indian students. Last year, our government
these bright young minds to qualify for permanent residency and to work, we hope these students, many of them, will stay and put their Canadian degrees to use right here in Canada," he added. Referring to visitor visa reforms, Harper said: "Our government has also made the CAN+ program in India a permanent feature of our immigration system, meaning that persons who have traveled to Canada or the United States in the recent past can be fasttracked for a visitor visa". "Our CAN+ program has a 95 per cent approval rate, making more
Possible immigration rift for Obama with Democrats Cont'd from Page 44
A spokesman for Sen. Chuck Schumer, declined to say whether Schumer still believes Obama should act by October, as Schumer had said before. A spokesman for Sen. Dick Durbin, the second-ranking Democrat, said the timing of executive action on immigration was up to Obama. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid's spokesman had no comment on timing. Still, Obama looks determined to move forward on his own despite the political risks for Democrats. He is irritated by House Republicans' inaction on immigration legislation passed last year by the Senate. The crisis over unaccompanied minors arriving in South
Indians able to visit Canada as tourists or to do business," he said. "Look we all know that immigration enriches this country, and our government's ongoing reforms mean that more immigrants
Texas does not appear to have deterred him, and the slowdown of arrivals at the border may be shifting the issue away from the spotlight anyway. The exact contours of Obama's plans remain unclear. Advocates and lawmakers who have talked with administration officials anticipate that he could expand a program that granted work permits and deferred deportation to more than 700,000 immigrants brought illegally to the U.S. as kids. It could be extended to include parents of those children, as well as parents of U.S. citizens, or potentially others - groups that could add up to perhaps 5 million people. During a news conference this month, Obama was not specific on
his immigration plans. He did say that in the absence of congressional action and in order to address the crisis involving unaccompanied youths, he had to shift resources on his own and exercise prosecutorial discretion. ``I promise you the American people don't want me just standing around twiddling my thumbs and waiting for Congress to get something done,'' Obama said. Some Republican leaders worry that opposition to a comprehensive overhaul will harm their party in the 2016 presidential race, where Latino turnout is higher than in midterm elections. Hispanics are a fast-growing sector of the presidential electorate and backed Obama overwhelmingly in 2012. AP
will be able to contribute to their maximum of their capacity, and that is good for everyone," he added. Commending the contributions made by the Indo-Canadian Community in the economic develop-
ment of Canada, Harper said that wherever Indian immigrants settle, wherever they choose to put down roots, to start businesses, to raise families, be it Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, Toronto or right here in Brampton, not by coincidence, those places thrive. "Today, India is Canada's top source country for immigrants. And of course, this explains why Canada's Indo-Canadian community is more than 1.2 million strong and continuing to grow. The IndoCanadian community has a proud and rich history in our country," he said. "This community - the Indo-Canadian community - comprises ordinary people doing extraordinary things in business and in finance, in academia and medicine, in technology and agriculture, to list just a few areas," he added. -PTI
PRADEEP ROY-SINGH B.A. LL.B. M.B.A. J.D. Attorney-at-Law
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Civil & Criminal Litigation Felonies, Misdemeanors, Inc DUI 1 Personal Injury, Business, Divorce etc. 1 Property Tax for Commercial Properties 1 1
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Immigration Post
46 India Post
August 22, 2014
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Advances in China and India categories CYRUS D. MEHTA
T
he Department of State's Visa Bulletin for August 2014 notes that cut-off dates for the China-mainland born employment third preference, and third preference "Other Workers," categories have advanced for the month of August and could do so again for September. The bulletin notes two reasons for this advance: (1) a decline during the past two months in heavy demand by applicants with priority dates significantly (years) earlier than the previous cut-off date, and (2) declining number use in the family preferences during May and June, combined with updated estimates of such number use through the end
gust-2014.html. USCIS Issues Policy Memo on Adjudication of H-1B Petitions for Nursing Occupations On July 11, 2014, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued a policy memorandum providing guidance on the adjudication of H-1B petitions for nursing positions. The memo assists USCIS officers in determining whether a nursing position meets the definition of a specialty occupation. The memo states that it supersedes any prior guidance on the subject and is binding on all USCIS employees unless specifically exempted. USCIS noted that about 12 years have passed since USCIS issued guidance on deter-
The India employment second preference cut-off date also has advanced very rapidly based on the projected availability of "otherwise unused" numbers under the worldwide preference limit. The bulletin notes that it must not be assumed that this cut-off date will continue to advance of the fiscal year. These developments have resulted in the availability of several hundred numbers for use in the Chinamainland born employment third preference category. During the past two months, the India employment second preference cut-off date also has advanced very rapidly based on the projected availability of "otherwise unused" numbers under the worldwide preference limit. The bulletin notes that it must not be assumed that this cut-off date will continue to advance at the same pace during the coming months. "A cut-off date does not mean that everyone with a priority date before such cut-off date has already been processed to conclusion. It remains to be seen how heavy the demand for visa numbers by applicants will be in the coming months, and what the priority dates of such applicants may be," the bulletin states. Heavy demand by applicants with priority dates significantly earlier than the established cutoff date is expected to materialize within the next several months, the bulletin notes, at which time the cut-off date is likely to retrogress significantly. The Visa Bulletin for August 2014 is available at http:// travel.state.gov/content/visas/ english/law-and-policy/bulletin/2014/visa-bulletin-for-au-
mining whether a nursing position is a specialty occupation. USCIS decided it was time to update this guidance. As background, the memo notes that the H-1B visa classification allows a U.S. employer to petition for a temporary worker in a specialty occupation. Most registered nurse (RN) positions do not qualify as specialty occupations because they do not normally require a U.S. bachelor's or higher degree in nursing (or its equivalent) as the minimum for entry into those positions. In some situations, however, a petitioner may be able to show that a nursing position qualifies as a specialty occupation, the memo states. For example, certain advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) positions normally require a U.S. bachelor's or higher degree in a specialty as the minimum for entry. The updated guidance notes that the private sector "is increasingly showing a preference for more highly educated nurses." Among other influences, the American Nurses Credentialing Center's (ANCC) Magnet Recognition Program recognizes health-care organizations that advance nursing excellence and leadership. Achieving Magnet status indicates that an institution's nursing workforce has attained a number of high standards, with an emphasis on
bachelor's degrees. The memo lists some of the nursing positions that may qualify as specialty occupations. The memo notes that having a bachelor's degree is not, by itself, sufficient to qualify for H-1B classification. A critical factor, the memo states, is whether a bachelor's or higher degree is normally required for the position. A beneficiary's credentials to perform a particular job are relevant only when the job is found to qualify as a specialty occupation. USCIS noted that it must "follow long-standing legal standards and determine whether the proffered position qualifies as a specialty occupation, and whether a beneficiary is qualified for the position at the time the nonimmigrant visa petition is filed." Among other things, the memo notes that if a state requires at least a bachelor's degree in nursing to obtain a nursing license, a registered nurse position in that state would generally be considered a specialty occupation. No state currently requires a bachelor's degree in nursing for licensure, the memo notes. The memo outlines the evidence needed to establish that a position qualifies as a specialty occupation under the "preponderance of the evidence" standard. Among other things, documentation submitted by petitioners often includes the nature of the petitioner's business; indus-
Allowing the designation of temporary immigration judges will provide flexibility "in responding to the increased challenges facing the immigration courts." try practices; a detailed description of the duties to be performed; advanced certification requirements; ANCC "Magnet Recognized" status; clinical experience requirements; training in the specialty requirements; and wage rate relative to others within the occupation. USCIS recognizes the Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) as an authoritative source on duties and educational requirements. However, the memo notes that it
is not always determinative and other authoritative and/or persuasive sources provided by the petitioner will also be considered. The new guidance memo is available at http:// www.uscis.gov/sites/default/ files/files/nativedocuments/20140711_EIR_Nursing_PM_Effective.pdf. EOIR interim rule addresses 'Largest Caseload' in U.S. history with temporary IJs Following the Obama administration's decision to increase the number of immigration judges deployed to handle cases related to the influx of undocumented migrants in the U.S. southern border area, the Department of Justice's Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) published an interim rule
may include former Board members, former immigration judges, administrative law judges employed within or retired from EOIR, and administrative law judges from other Executive Branch agencies to act as temporary immigration judges for renewable six-month terms. Administrative law judges from other agencies must have the consent of their agencies to be designated as temporary immigration judges. In addition, the Director of EOIR will be able to designate, with the approval of the Attorney General, attorneys who have at least 10 years of legal experience in the field of immigration law and are currently employed by the Department of
A critical factor, the memo states, is whether a bachelor's or higher degree is normally required for the position. A beneficiary's credentials to perform a particular job are relevant only when the job is found to qualify as a specialty occupation effective July 11, 2014, allowing the agency to designate or select temporary immigration judges, with the Attorney General's approval. The interim rule notes that EOIR "is currently managing the largest caseload the immigration court system has ever seen." This is due to "attrition in the immigration judge corps and continuing budgetary restrictions" along with a large number of pending cases, the interim rule notes. Allowing the designation of temporary immigration judges will provide flexibility "in responding to the increased challenges facing the immigration courts." A new TRAC report finds that as of the end of June 2014, the number of cases pending in the immigration courts is at an alltime high of 375,503. TRAC's preliminary figures indicated that the number of cases involving juveniles was 41,640, with more arriving daily. "As of the end of June 2014, the court backlog for juveniles from Guatemala is the largest with 12,841 cases, closely followed by Honduras (12,696) and El Salvador (12,162)," TRAC noted. According to the TRAC report, the average time for a pending case before an immigration judge is now 587 days. The interim rule states that temporary immigration judges
Justice to act as temporary immigration judges for renewable sixmonth terms. The 10 years of experience must be gained after admission to the bar and may be gained through employment by the federal, state, or local government, the private sector, universities, non-governmental organizations, or a combination of such experience. Characteristics that would qualify a candidate for designation as a temporary immigration judge include the ability to demonstrate the appropriate temperament to serve as a judge; knowledge of immigration laws and procedures; substantial litigation experience, preferably in a high-volume context; experience handling complex legal issues; experience conducting administrative hearings; and knowledge of practices and procedures. EOIR will provide the training necessary for temporary immigration judges to perform the assigned duties. The Chief Immigration Judge may choose to specify particular types of matters for which each temporary immigration judge will be assigned, consistent with the individual's training and experience. * Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com
Datebook
August 22, 2014
NEW JERSEY Upcoming Fri, Aug 22 • Lalitha Mahayagnam Venue: Shree Swamy Narayan Temple, 1667 Amwell Rd, Franklin Township, NJ 08873 Time: 8:00 am Contact: 516-359-8178
Sat, Aug 23 • Music Workshop by Sharda Rajan Venue: Homewood suites by Hilton, 66 Stanley St, East Rutherford, NJ 07073 Time : 10:00 am Contact: 203-599-1437
Sat, Aug 30 • Kumar Sanu - Aashiqui Ke Liye Venue: Ritz Theater, 1148 E Jersey St, Elizabeth, NJ 07201 Time: 8:00 pm
NEW YORK Upcoming Sat, Aug 24 • Ustad Tari Khan Mehefil-eGhazal and Tabla Solo Recital Venue: Courtyard by Marriot New York LaGuardia Airport, 90-10 Grand Central Pkwy, NY 11369 Time: 5:00 pm Contact : 718-639-2881
Sun, Aug 24 • Mika Singh Live In New York Venue: Long Island University, 720 Northern Blvd, NY 11368 Time: 06:30 pm Contact: 347-989-6104
Sun, Sep 14 • Not Out An Ageless Comedy Venue: Hindu Community Centre, 143-09 Holly Ave, NY 11355 Time : 6:00 pm
India Post 47
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NORTHERN CALIFORNIA
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Upcoming
Upcoming
Sun, Aug 24 • Kailash Kher live in Concert Venue: Chabot College of Performing Arts, 25555 Hesperian Blvd, Hayward, CA 94545 Timet: 7:30 pm Contact: 510-371-9999
Wed, Aug 27 • Auditions for Dracula
OHLONE College's Awardwinning Theatre And Dance Department Is Looking For Actors
Venue: Smith Center at Ohlone College NUMMI Studio Theatre 43600 Mission Boulevard, Fremont Contact: www.ohlone.edu/go/audition
Fri, Aug 29 • AKKA 2014 Sponsorship Venue: San Jose McEnery Convention Center, 150 W. San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95113 Contact: 456-546-4646
Sat, Sep 06 • Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Aman Ali Khan and Ayan Ali Khan - Sanskriti Music & Dance Festival Part 2
Venue: Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Rd, Pleasanton, CA 94566 Time: 5:30 pm Contact: 408-887-5948
Mon, Sep 10 • Shreya Ghoshal Live In Bay Area
Venue: San Jose City National Civic Theater, 135 W San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95113 Contact: 5102008784
Sun, Sep 13 • Naari- Ladies Event Venue: Sneha Restaurant Banquet Hall, 1214 Apollo Way, Suite 404 B, Sunnyvale, CA 94085 Timet: 5:30 pm Contact: 510-865-6274
Sat, Aug 23 • Aa Family Komedy Chhey - Gujrati Drama Venue: James Logan Performing Arts Center, 1800 H St, Union City, CA 94587 Time: 7:00 pm Contact: 510-648-0596
Sat, Sep 6, 2014 • Sediq Shubab and Aryana Sayeed Live In San Francisco Venue: Chabot Collage, 25555 Hesperian Blvd, Hayward, CA 94545 Time: 6:30 pm. Contact:510-894-5376
ATLANTA Upcoming Sat, Aug 23 • Festival of India Venue: Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Duluth, GA 30097 Contact: 404-317-5474 Time: 11:00 am
Sat, Aug 23 • 343rd Aradhana Mahotsava Celebrations Venue: Iaca Auditorium, 1281,Copper Lake Rd, Atlanta, GA 30082 Time: 09:00 am Contact: 678-656-4076
Sat, Oct 04 • Navaratri Mela - 2014 Venue: Independence High School, 86 School Dr, Alpharetta, GA 30009 Contact: 404-786-7860 Time: 8:45 pm
ILLINOIS Upcoming • J K Yog Satsang and Bal Mukund Hindi Classes are held every 2nd and 4rth Sunday of Month Chicago Satsang Information: J K Yog, Chicago - Swami Mukundananda Venue: Clarion Inn/Waterford Banquets, Board Room, 933 South Riverside Drive, Elmhurst, IL 60126 Time: 3:30pm-5:30pm Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630-561-4807 Website: www.jkyog.org
1st and 3rd Sunday of Month • Chicago Children's Bal Mukund Character Building Program and Hindi Literacy Classes Venue: Vogelei Center, 650 W. Higgins Road, Hoffmann Estates, IL 60192 (Next to Nissan Dealership) Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630-561-4807
Mondays and Fridays • Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes Metropolitan Asian Family Services Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL, Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Contact: 773-465-3105
Mondays and Fridays • Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes Where: Metropolitan Asian Family Services Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL, Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Contact: 773-465-3105
48 India Post
MUMBAI: Some of the most coveted items of the bygone and present-day era of India cinema including original art works from iconic movies like "Baiju Bawra", "Mother India" and "Mughal-e-Azam" will go under the hammer at an auction of rare and vintage film memorabilia here next month. The nearly 220 Lots in Osian's Group's "The Greatest Indian Show on Earth" series auction on September 12 is expected to
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fetch in excess of Rs 75 lakh. An opening preview exhibition will be held on August 22 at the Tao Art Gallery here. Featuring in the auction will be some rare items of India cinema with a focus on Prabhat Film Company, Prakash Pictures and Bombay Talkies. Some original and historically significant items that will be placed under the gavel include an exclusive 1957, rare six sheet poster of "Mother India" and an original handpainted hard board standee of "Yahudi" with Dilip Kumar and Meena Kumari in their famous embrace. Collectibles from classics like "Mughale-Azam", "Mother India", "Ganga Jamuna", "Baiju Bawra" and "Pakeezah" among a host of others will also go under the hammer. Memorabilia pertaining to some of the
earliest films made by Prabhat Film Company such as "Amrit Manthan" (1934), "Manoos" (Marathi, 1939) and "Aadmi" (Hindi, 1939) are among others of historical film value. Very rare original art works from iconic films such as "Baiju Bawra", "Shree Chaitanya Mahaprabhu" and "Bhakta Dhruva" from Prakash Pictures find representation at this auction. The four original artworks for the Window Showcards of "Baiju Bawra" deserve special mention. There will be a focus on the Kapoors, India's first family of film stars, with memorabilia from movies of Prithviraj Kapoor, Raj Kapoor, Shammi Kapoor, Shashi Kapoor, Rishi and Randhir Kapoor to the Manish Malhotra costumes worn by Karishma Kapoor in N N Sippy's "Silsila Hai Pyaar Ka" and Kareena Kapoor inspired art by artist-fan Nitin Utge.
August 22, 2014
There is also a painting by Arpana Caur 'Pyaar hua, Iqraar hua' showcasing the famous under the umbrella song scene of Raj Kapoor and Nargis from the film "Shree 420" besides a vintage first release poster of "Junglee" featuring Shammi Kapoor. Modern art and design finds representation in the vintage and rare Bengali and classical music cover designs with inspiration drawn from artists such as Jamini Roy with Paritosh Sen actually designing record covers for Rabindra Sangeet and plays. Cont'd on Page 49
August 22, 2014
India Post 49 www.indiapost.com
Miss India America pageant on Aug 23 India Post News Service
LOS ANGELES, CA: The star studded VIP charity gala ceremony of the crowning of Miss India America and Mr India America will be held in Los Angeles on August
Anurag kashyap
23. The event will be televised worldwide. The year 2014 marks as the 22nd anniversary for the beauty pageant. Founded in 1992, by Jinnder Chohan, the pageant was the beginning of a small movement which grew over the period and has now become an International
phenomenon. Mr & Miss India America 2014 is presented by Star Plus TV, Life OK, Wells Fargo, South Asia Magazine and JINmodels.com. The pageant will be on Saturday, August 23 at the LAX Renaissance hotel (9620 Airport Blvd., Los Angeles). Celebrity red carpet arrivals begin at 6pm, followed by dinner (catered by Ashoka Indian Restaurant), show and celebration party with DJ. Jinnder mentioned, "Our pageant will be an amazing cultural experience with glamour and entertainment, displaying Indian beauty and talent on a mainstream platform. We will have international media covering our red carpet arrivals, and we are excited to have Star Plus TV's camera crew shooting Mr & Miss India America to be aired on their #1 Indian channel worldwide. We also have today's hottest and busiest Bollywood producer and director, Anurag Kashyap, coming exclusively from Mumbai to judge our pageant". With the evolution of time, the event has become a convergence of fashion, beauty and media under one roof. The evening will begin with a dazzling array of prominent personalities from across the
globe, these include: Sacramento Kings owner - Vivek Ranadive, Bollywood director/producer Anurag Kashyap (Hasee Toh Phasee, Queen, Dev D, Black Friday, Bombay Velvet, etc.) actress Bai Ling (The Crow), actress Camilla Luddington (Grey's
Vivek Ranadive
Anatomy), actress Janina Gavankar (True Blood), actress Natalie Burn (The Expendables 3), model Caitlyn O'Connor, Lakers Kareem Rush, actress Natasha Blasick (Paranormal Activity), actress Melody Thomas Scott (The Young & The Restless), NFL player Bret Lockett, actress
awad Afzal Khan is yet another example of Pakistani actors making a beeline for Bollywood despite facing opposition from their fans back home. Here's looking at the other imports who have joined Bollywood. Fawad Khan: This Pakistani superstar is all set to make his Bollywood debut opposite Sonam Kapoor in Khoobsurat. While he has become a hit with the girls courtesy his good looks, he has faced flak from his country for 'hurting the sentiments by working in a Hindi film.' In response, Fawad said, "I do feel bad but I choose to ignore the criticism. I believe art knows no culture and creed."
Humaima Malick: Her Bollywood debut with Raja Natwarlal sees Humaima locking
Fawad Afzal Khan
lips with co-star Emraan Hashmi. Needless to say, the model and actress from Pakistan has drawn the ire of her fans back home. But she's not willing to step back. "I'm confident about getting accepted by the Indian audience. But I'm scared of my own country," she said. Ali Zafar: He is probably the most successful Pakistani actor in Bollywood so far. The multi-talented artiste believes that politics and art should not be mixed and was once quoted saying, "Indian people love me more than I had expected." His last release may have bombed at the box-office but Ali has a few films on his plate. Courtesy TOI
actress Tessa Harnetiaux (Cinemax's The Girl's Guide to Depravity), celebrity designer Aerin O'Connell, celebrity stylist Ali Levine, and many others.
Buy Bollywood memorabilia Cont'd from Page 48
Pak actors try their luck in Bollywood
F
Maitlin Ward (White Chicks), actress Brandi Burkhardt (Hart of Dixie), model Courtney Stodden, actor Eric Nelson (The Americans), actress Agam Darshi (Sanctuary),
Iconic images of Rajesh Khanna, the heartthrob of millions from the films "The Train", "Safar", "Amar Prem", "Andaaz", "Daag", "Anand", "Aan Milo Sajna" and memorabilia from "Loafer", "Blackmail", "Jugnu", "Dharamveer", "Dost" and "Charas" reliving the charm of Dharmendra will be another focus. Osian's founder chairman Neville Tuli commenting on the larger preservation needs rues that the scale of the passion and commitment required is lacking. "Unless the film fraternity, especially the younger generation recognizes this responsibility, the fact will be that the world's largest film industry will have the world's smallest collection of itself in physical and digital terms," he says. Auctions such as "The Greatest Indian Show on Earth", according to him, "bring to the surface this critical need". Another highlight of the auction is the showcasing one of the greatest onscreen romances of all times between Dharmendra and Hema Malini through memorabilia from films like "Charas", "Jugnu", "Razia Sultan", "Chacha Bhatija", "Raja Jaani", "Dost" and "Prem Chumban". The memorabilia includes posters, photographic stills
mounted on lobby cards and song synopsis booklets. The section 'Leading Heroines rom 1950s-70s' features Madhubala and Hema Malini, who not just graced the posters of her
films, but whose image was used on packets of beedis, soaps, calendars with aplomb and was one of the leading brand ambassadors of the 1970s-80s is another area of focus. There will also be a large painting of superstar Rajnikant by Armugam. International locations where early Indian films (post 1964 with "Sangam") were shot is another focus area and showcases large posters of films such as "An Evening in Paris", "Love in Tokyo" and "Night in London". -PTI
50 India Post
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August 22, 2014
August 22, 2014
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Horoscope
52 India Post
August 22, 2014
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Your Weekly Future by Pandit Parashar
AUGUST 22ND - AUGUST 28TH, 2014 (March 21 to April 20)
M
ind will be full of bright ideas and you will start implementing them quickly. Property deal can also finalize during the week. Some of you may be traveling to another city to attend a big event. A close family member will be advised minor surgery. Conflicting report may force you to delay your decisions. You may visit a mall and buy some new cloths for your self.
(September 23 to October 22)
P
eople around will irritate you and try to test your patience and if you react, you will allow them to win. Chances of making money through stocks and lottery very strong. Additional pressure at work may make some look around for better opportunity and closer to home. People in business will spend more on adding new products.
(October 23 to November 22)
(April 21 to May 20)
E
xtra running around will bring desired results. Financial pressure will evaporate after making final payment on an old debt. People in business will continue gain an edge over their opponents with the new inventory. This is the right time to appear for competitive exam or initiate a law suit. Some of you may be traveling to a comparatively warm area to meet some relatives.
Y
ou will find something interesting in mail. One phone call will increase your borrowing power. You may start following a reli gious person. Boss will assign a important project with added benefits and help. People prone to litigation will receive big legal help bills. Meetings with government officials will go well and you will come back with solid assurance.
(November 23 to December 22)
(May 21 to June 20)
P
resence of Venus and Jupiter in second creates chances of some kind of financial jackpot. You may take family out to a nice place and relish food of your choice. You may be in touch with a government agency and successfully negotiate the deal. Helpful planets may open another door to make money. You will also give final shape to a short and interesting vacation with family.
D
on't do things half heartily if you want results. Luck is definitely on your side so go with full swing. This is the right time to approach government officials for favor. Claim can also get settled by insurance company this week. You may be thinking of going on a long distance trip in future and may start exploring the idea. Bank balance will keep growing.
(June 21 to July 22)
N
ews will come as a pleasant surprise and bring you in the mood to celebrate with people close. Keep your self away from mess created by a shady character. Strong Sun in second can help you make money through speculations and no harm in trying few lottery tickets. You may be thing of making some changes inside your home in near future.
(December 22 to January 19)
P
resence of Venus and Jupiter in seventh creates some kind of divine protection and you will experience it this week. Money long overdue will finally show up in the bank. Just keep your self out of any heated discussions at place of business or work. If you stick to your terms, the other side will agree very quickly.
(July 23 to August 22)
C
ommitments made recently could start draining your out and you may start doubting your decision. Some of you may stay ing away from home for business purpose. You will continue to take courageous actions in career and see quick results. It will be better to postpone meeting with government agency for another week. You may attend a charity event with family this week.
(January 20 to February 18)
Y
ou will benefit from some one with political background. Business will pick up all of a sudden. You may have to make sec ond attempt in order to get any work this week. Some of you may be taking a short business trip to other state. It will be a good idea to listen to spouse. People looking for a change will receive a weak offer.
(August 23 to September 22)
K
eep an eye on credit card bills and look for unauthorized charges. You will be shaky about recent offer and may call few friends to gather their opinion. You may also spend a quite evening with political people. It will be better to hang on to stocks for little more time. Bachelors should consider the proposal seriously.
PANDIT PARASHAR, CEO & COO Astro Scan USA is also available for individual consultations. He can be reached at: parashar@parashar.com
(February 19 to March 20)
P
lanets may create little confusion and you may be torn between right and wrong, but ultimately avert temptations and choose the right path. Minor surgery may be the only option for the problem that keep popping up from time to time. Promotion you had been waiting for is just around. You will get to spend more time at home this week.
510-886-4370 www.parashar.com
Philosophy
August 22, 2014
India Post 53
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K
rishna is utterly incomparable, he is so unique. Firstly, his uniqueness lies in the fact that although Krishna happened in the ancient past he belongs to the future, is really of the future. Man has yet to grow to that height where he can be a contemporary of Krishna's. He is still beyond man's understanding; he continues to puzzle and battle us. Only in some future time will we be able to understand him and appreciate his virtues. And there are good reasons for it. The most important reason is that Krishna is the sole great man in our whole history who reached the absolute height and depth of religion, and yet he is not at all serious and sad, not in tears. By and large, the chief characteristic of a religious person has been that he is somber, serious and sad-looking - like one vanquished in the battle of life, like a renegade from life. In the long line of such sages it is Krishna alone who comes dancing, singing and laughing. Religions of the past were all life-denying and masochistic, extolling sorrow and suffering as great virtues. If you set aside Krishna's vision of religion, then every religion of the past presented a sad and sorrowful face. A laughing religion, a religion that PHILIP SHEPHERD
I
f the world were purely materialistic, then all of its processes would follow the cause-and-effect mechanics of forces acting on matter, and its final truth would be found in the interactions of its smallest material bits. Science has devoted much of its attention to identifying and explaining these bits, a pursuit that has led its inquiries to the quantum level. At the quantum level, almost nothing turns out to be simply mechanical. In trying to pin down the mechanical essence of the world, then, we have actually discovered qualities that defy material, cause-and-effect models of explanation. Whatever the world might be, it is something other than a machine. As a culture we have strayed so far into our dream of controlling the world that we have lost sight of our partnership with it. To dream of controlling the world is necessarily to imagine its nature to be comprehensible and material, and so conducively subject to manipulation. This view has led us into a paradoxical relationship with phenomena we call 'miracles'. On the one hand, we are modern enough to dismiss them as anomalous events that have entirely rational explanations. On the
accepts life in its totality is yet to be born. And it is good that the old religions are dead, along with them, that the old God, the God of our old concepts is dead too. It is said of Jesus that he never laughed. It was perhaps his sad look and the picture of his physical form on the cross that became the focal point of at traction for people, most of whom are themselves unhappy and miserable. In a deep sense Mahavira and
That is why India held him to be a perfect incarnation of God, while all other incarnations were assessed as imperfect and incomplete. Even Rama is described as an incomplete incarnation of God. But Krishna is the whole of God. And there is a reason for saying so. The reason is that Krishna has accepted and absorbed everything that life is. Albert Schweitzer made a significant remark in criticism of the Indian re-
way. He remains a lonely dancing island in the vast ocean of sorrow and misery that is our life. Or, we can say he is a small oasis of joyous dancing and celebration in the huge desert of sadness and negativity, of suppression and condemnation that we really are. Krishna could not influence the whole spectrum of our life, and for this we are alone to blame. Krishna is not in the least responsible for it. We were not that worthy, that deserving, to have him,
Krishna reached absolute height & depth of religion If you set aside Krishna's vision of religion, then every religion of the past presented a sad and sorrowful face. A laughing religion, a religion that accepts life in its totality is yet to be born.
Quotes from Yoga Vashistha The great remedy for the long-lasting disease of samsara is the enquiry, 'Who am I?, to whom does this samsara belong?,' which entirely cures it.
Lord krishna
Buddha are against life too. They are in favor of some other life in some other world; they support a kind of liberation from this life. Every religion, up to now, has divided life into two parts, and while they accept one part they deny the other, Krishna alone accepts the whole of life. Acceptance of life in its totality has attained full fruition in Krishna.
ligion. He said that the religion of this country is life negative. This remark is correct to a large extent, if Krishna is left out. But it is utterly wrong in the context of Krishna. If Schweitzer had tried to understand Krishna he would never have said so. But it was unfortunate that we did not allow Krishna to influence our life in a broad
to imbibe him, to absorb him. Up to now, man's mind has thought of and looked at life in fragments - and thought dialectically. Excerpted from Krishna: The Man and His Philosophy; a talk given by Osho in Hindi at C.C.I. Chambers, Bombay, on 20 July 1970. Janmashtami, the 5242th birth anniversary of Lord Krishna, was celebrated on 18 August.
other, we often secretly believe in miracles and yearn for them to be real - a trait that marketing companies take advantage of. They use this language because it works on us; and it works because certain experiences tell us there is more to the world than its subatomic interactions; that its expressiveness, its life, is supported by a foundational awareness; and even that we are more deeply connected
who as a child ran out of his classroom in the middle of a lesson and all the way home to find his mother bleeding to death on the kitchen floor - his arrival saving her life. I write about Kukrit and Mati-i, shamans in the Amazon jungle who were asked by the government to bring rain, because massive forest fires were raging and satellite imagery put the nearest rain, "at least two weeks away." The shamans
in Princeton, which represents them in a graph. Normally the numbers balance one another, and the graph appears as a more or less straight line. On 9/11, though, there was a massive deviation from that straight line, which showed up on the graph as a spike. Other spikes have appeared in subsequent years to coincide with globally felt tragedies. So it seems that when hu-
We are deeply connected to the way world unfolds of the world, then, we have actually discovered qualities that defy material, cause-andeffect models of explanation. Philip Shepherd
performed their ceremony and then went to bed saying, "The rain will come." Hours later it was pouring. I also write about The Global Consciousness Project - a curious experiment involving over sixty devices around the world that are designed to generate a sequence of random numbers. These numbers are averaged by a computer
The company of sages converts emptiness into fullness, death into immortality and adversity into prosperity.
Following the customary method of teaching is only for preserving the tradition. Pure awareness results solely from the clarity of the disciple's understanding.
The Lord cannot be seen with the help of the sacred texts or the Guru. The self is seen by the Self alone with the pure intellect.
In trying to pin down the mechanical essence
to the way the world unfolds than we dare imagine. In my book New Self, New World I look at a variety of events that might be considered 'miracles'. I write about controlled, doubleblind experiments with prayer that show it to have a statistically significant effect on health and healing. I write about my friend Jack,
The sages are to be approached even if they do not teach. Even their talks in a light vein contain wisdom.
man consciousness achieves coherence on a global scale, it can affect material events at a quantum level. Canada based Philip Shepherd has worked as a writer, actor, workshop leader, director, editor, personal coach, house builder, dance dramaturge, teacher and lecturer.
All the arts acquired by men are lost by lack of practice, but this art of wisdom grows steadily once it rises.
Even the slightest thought immerses a man in sorrow; when devoid of all thoughts he enjoys imperishable bliss.
You Insure all your Valuables, all are replaceable except YOU! So Insure yourself FIRST. Call Sahanis, (Arish, Priya or Shiv) for your Insurance needs 718- 271- 0453. Serving for last 35 yrs
54
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August 22, 2014
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India's options on China meddling in Brahmaputra
India Post
ABANTI BHATTACHARYA
T
he Brahmaputra River is likely to emerge as a new contentious front embroiling India and China. This dispute will be more deleterious given its entanglement with the India-China border issue. Earlier this year, Vice President Hamid Ansari's visit to China did not achieve much except getting 15 more days of hydrological data that too on payment to China and allowing Indian water experts to visit Tibet to monitor the river flow in its upper reaches. China is steadfast on damming and diverting the Brahmaputra as it has no alternative but to harness the river waters to meet its acute water crisis. More than 70 per cent of its rivers are polluted. Reports suggest that three-fifth of all water supplies in China are of bad or
China. Food security naturally acquires paramount focus. Further, insufficient water hindering economic development is the primary challenge as the survival of the Chinese Communist Party hinges on ensuring economic prosperity. Admittedly thus, water diversion and building dams are the only plausible solutions for China. It may also be pointed out that water harnessing is nothing new in China. In the imperial times, the creation of a centralized bureaucratic empire was based on an effective water management system; the eminent sinologist Karl Wittfogel thus called China a 'hydraulic empire'. Indeed, water woes are rooted in Chinese history and so are the solutions. The moot point is that
Brahmaputra River
worse quality. Topography also adds to its water woes with 90 per cent of the run-off flowing downstream to South Asia and Southeast Asia. Around 64 per cent of the land in the north receives only 19 per cent precipitation. Added to water crisis is the increasing problem of desertification. Desertification has reportedly hit 18 provinces accounting for 27 per cent of the country and impacts more than 400 million people. China's Ministry of Water Resources points out that some 55 per cent of the 50,000 rivers and streams that existed till the 1990s have disappeared. While as per the 2007-08 Annual Report of the Water Ministry, the demand for water has been on the rise with agriculture accounting for 62.5 per cent, industry 23.4 per cent, domestic 12.3 per cent and others 1.8 per cent. The ramifications of the twin problems of water crisis and desertification are huge and tantamount to a survival issue for
the Chinese leadership is not going to stop building or diverting rivers and this indelibly has ominous implications for India and other lower riparian countries. In this scenario, what are India's options? Arguably, India's solution does not lie in building dams on the Brahmaputra in disregard to the concerns of Bangladesh. Rather it would be wise for India to resolve the Teesta water dispute that would be an example to the Chinese of India's benevolence. More importantly, India should form a coalition of all lower riparian countries that are afflicted with China's hydropower and river diversion projects. In fact, the third phase of China's North-South River diversion project has grave consequences not only for South Asia but Southeast Asia as well. The Southeast Asian countries of Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam have disputes with China on the Mekong, a transborder river emerging from the Ti-
betan Plateau. In 1995, the Mekong Water Commission was founded to address hydropower developments in the lower basin. However, China has refused to be a full member of the Commission. In fact, China has no water treaty with any country so far. The lower Mekong basin countries, constituting sixty million people depending on the Mekong for food and livelihood, have alleged that China has been unilaterally constructing dams without any concern for the lower riparian countries. The lower riparian countries of South Asia and Southeast Asia should, therefore, come together to create a common front to address the water dispute with China. On river water-sharing, it should bind China in a common web of norms and regulations. But the creation of a common front would be rendered futile if it is bereft of any enforcement capacity. Therefore, it is necessary as well, to create stakes for China in upholding the interests of the lower riparian countries. This could be materialized if the concerns of the lower riparian countries are linked with China's own economic projects like the 'silk route economic belt'. For instance, instead of simply tagging along with China on the BCIM (Bangladesh, China, India and Myanmar) Silk Route project, India should make its collaboration on the BCIM conditional on China's cooperation on the Brahmaputra. Apparently, the Chinese claim that the BCIM is not simply about economic cooperation but essentially about integrating the neighboring regions. They also emphasize the BCIM's 'inclusiveness' and building a 'community of common destiny'. If the ultimate goal is indeed about creating a 'community of common destiny', China cannot remain aloof to the concerns of its neighboring countries. In fact, the BCIM corridor would certainly collapse if China continues to pursue river diversion and dam-building projects at the cost of environmental degradation and economic dislocation of the lower riparian countries. In sum, India has leverages on the Brahmaputra which it should weigh-in diplomatically in its dealings with China. The writer is Associate Professor, Department of East Asian Studies, University of Delhi. Courtesy IPCS
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I-Day & toilets
arendra Modi was in his element delivering his first Independence Day speech. Resplendent in his Gujarati headgear, he discarded many precedents and set up some new ones. In spite of the perceived security threat to him, he had the bullet-proof glass cage removed so that he could speak more freely to the people. Luckily he had no achievements to list; his government being hardly three months old, thus doing away with a boring ritual. Nor did he make any big ticket announcements, another favorite of previous prime ministers. Apart from announcing the scrapping of the Planning Commission, denoting a new beginning in planning bringing in the States into the federal picture; his focus was Indian society. He was talking to the people and addressing their daily problems. On the rising rapes in the country he peculiarly addressed the parents, asking them if they asked their sons the same questions as they ask their daughters, viz where are they going? When will they be back? And who are their friends? He was thus able to strike at the root of the problem in a male dominated society. Mothers were equally to blame for being indulgent with the sons; letting them behave abominably and then defending them. And he also pointed out that God was not responsible if the ratio of females to males was declining so drastically. Another cause of rising rapes he said were the lack of toilets in rural areas. It was shameful, he stressed, that our mothers and sisters had to wait for dark to address the call of nature. Coming from poor family in a rural area he was in a better position to know the real facts about living in villages unlike the city bred previous prime ministers. He outlined a scheme wherein MPs of the area would take the responsibility of constructing separate toilets for boys and girls in every government school. He also announced a scheme by which MPs of the area would develop one village as a model. This is not the first time that the issue of toilets in schools has been taken up. The hurdles of setting up toilets is not constructing them but running them and maintaining them. A recent article by an entrepreneur in Indian Express has outlined how his efforts at setting up toilets in schools have been frustrated. He points out that schools do not have electricity or running water, two essential resources for a working toilet. In their absence, the only beneficiaries of this scheme would be contractors who build the capital assets and then walk away leaving their assets to rust. Thus the social problems of rape and Naxalism, and even terrorism, are interminably linked with the lack of water and electricity in villages. If the Modi government can arrange these essential commodities - water and electricity - the social problem of illtreatment of women would automatically be addressed. The shortage of electricity is also a big problem in towns and cities. In a recent survey it was pointed out there is growing use of diesel generator (DG) sets to meet the shortage in industrial and commercial units. The DG sets are providing as much as 90,000 MW and their capacity is growing at a rate of 5000 MW to 8000 MW every year which is higher than the cumulative nuclear and solar capacities being added. The downside of this picture is that the DGs spew tones of carbon dioxide and are run on subsidized diesel. As of now the thermal generation capacity of over 48,000 MW is stranded in the country in the absence of coal linkages and non-closure of power purchase agreements. Add to these the UPA government's coal mining scandals due to which mining is suspended in some areas. So the social engineering that Narendra Modi is aiming at can be provided if he addresses the crucial sectors of power generation and water availability.
August 22, 2014
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56 India Post
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August 22, 2014