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Festive mood building up to welcome Modi

VOL 21, No. 1096

September 25, 2015

50¢

Periodical Postage

SPEED UP REFORMS, U.S. TELLS INDIA

Bobby Jindal

Jindal leads GOP attack against Trump Details on page 9

Details on page 16

Patidars to extend grand welcome to PM

Shobhana Bharatia and Indra Nooyi

Nooyi, Bharatiya presented with USIBC award

Details on page 18

Kajol attending UN Assembly & Global Festival

Details on page 8

‘India will give better returns on investments’

Details on page 36

Details on page 12

Indians in US form group to support GOP

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

Details on page 11

NEW ERA IN TIES:

US Vice President Joe Biden (left) and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj speaking at 40th Gala event of US-India Business Council in Washington DC on September 21

Classifieds ------------------------- 52 Community Post -------------- 16-26 Date Book -------------------------- 47

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

Another Modi visit will transform US-India ties?

Last week’s result

Continuing attacks on Sikhs dent US secular image?

YES 73%

NO 27%

WASHINGTON: The US has asked India to speed up the pace of economic reforms, with special emphasis on ease of doing business, as American Vice President Joe Biden underlined the need to do more to protect intellectual property and liberalize trade with shared rules of the road.

Biden, who described the first Strategic and Commercial Dialogue as beginning of a "new era" in the Indo-US ties, also sought greater co-operation on the issue of climate change which, he argued, would unleash a new era

of economic growth in the two largest democracies of the world.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Commerce Minister Nirmala Sitharaman are representing India at the first India-US Strategic and Commercial Dialogue here.

"The rules of the road have to be universally followed.

So we need to see more reforms to protect intellectual property," Biden said in his keynote address to the 40th annual gala of US India Business Council (USIBC).

Edit Page --------------------------- 54

Details on page 5

Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 40-43

Certified by “CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL Readership 117,765”

HealthScience Post --------- 48-51 Horoscope ------------------------- 27 Immigration Post ------------- 44-46 Life Style ----------------------- 36-39 Philosophy ------------------------- 53 Publisher’s Diary ------------------ 4 Real Estate -------------------- 32-34 TechBiz Post ------------------- 12-15

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September 25, 2015

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

Publisher’s Diary

T

he Indian American community is perhaps the most conflicted among immigrant communities anywhere in the world. They are miserably torn between their loyalty in terms of allegiance to their home country, and adoptive country; and between their identity as Indians in general, and parochial bias towards their home state in particular.

The superficial façade of a model immigrant community which shines gaudily in times of celebrating good times, gives way to deep and let's face-it-already divisions at the slightest hint of a threat to their narrow sectarian interests, not in their immediate neighborhood or city, state or country they reside in, but in India.

Now Gujarati settlers the world over are known for their spectacular success as entrepreneurs, which may be attributed to their tendency to mostly rely on and stick with fellow Gujaratis. Until less than a year ago, Gujaratis across geographies were celebrating the ascent of Narendra Modi as Prime Minister. Their pride was unbounded when last year they turned up in the thousands to welcome Modi at Madison Square Garden.

However, it didn't take too long for sectarian politics to divide them, as today American Patels stand against the rest of Gujarati Americans. The American Patels have suddenly decided their solidarity lies not with the visiting Indian Prime Minister - so what if he is a son of their soil - but with their Patel brethren in Gujarat who are agitating for affirmative action, and are all set to show their angst against Modi during his visit to the US this week.

And wait, it's not just large numbers of Patels showing up at the United Nations HQs or Waldorf Astoria in New York or in Silicon Valley where Modi is scheduled to visit, but some of them actually intend to march from Selma to Montgomery in Alabama in a symbolic march a la the march against race discrimination during the American civil rights movement.

Really? Selma to Montgomery? Oh c'mon! What is wrong with you people?

Aren't you the same guys who shouted the loudest of pro-Modi chants during his visit to NY about the same time last year?

Romesh K Japra rkjapra@indiapost.com

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HIGHLIGHTS Bollywood: Inspiring woman Deepika Padukone feels her upcoming film Sanjay Bhansali's "Bajirao Mastani" was more draining than "Ram Leela".

Cover Story: Speed up reforms The US has asked India to speed up the pace of economic reforms, with special emphasis on ease of doing business

Community: Festive atmosphere At the Community Reception for PM Modi, a series of amazing performances from across California are being planned.

Illegal migration Hungary has given the army drastic new powers to stem illegal migration ahead of two key EU meetings

Life style: Kajol at UN Bollywood actress Kajol will be attending the UN General Assembly and Global Citizen Festival in New York

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Better returns FM Arun Jaitley said in Hong Kong that India would give better returns on investments than many other countries

Dooars A splendid town in the Jalpaiguri District of West Bengal, Dooars acts as the doorway to the north-eastern region

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September 25, 2015

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Speed up reforms, US tells India WASHINGTON: The US has asked India to speed up the pace of economic reforms, with special emphasis on ease of doing business, as American Vice President Joe Biden underlined the need to

"This, in my view, is a propitious moment for the US-India relationship. We're in a new era as we kick off the first Strategic and Commercial Dialogue between our two countries," he added.

US Secretary of State John Kerry speaks at the 40th Gala event of US-India Business Council in Washington DC on September 21

do more to protect intellectual property and liberalize trade with shared rules of the road.

Biden, who described the first Strategic and Commercial Dialogue as beginning of a "new era" in the Indo-US ties, also sought greater co-operation on the issue of climate change which, he argued, would unleash a new era of economic growth in the two largest democracies of the world.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Commerce Minister Nirmala Sitharaman are representing India at the first India-US Strategic and Commercial Dialogue here.

"The rules of the road have to be universally followed. So we need to see more reforms to protect intellectual property," Biden said in his keynote address to the 40th annual gala of US India Business Council (USIBC).

"We have to ease limits on foreign investment and make it easier for businesses to sell their products and services in the marketplace. More bilateral trade in my humble opinion - it is for India to decide -is in the overwhelming interest of both our countries.

And that can only occur if we continue to liberalize trade with shared rules of the road," he said.

"There is going to be some hard discussions here. This is difficult work," Biden said.

Swaraj said India offers immense opportunities and asked American companies for a massive investment in the country.

"We see business between our two countries not simply as transactions, but as yet another manifestation and another multiplier of that very important strategic convergence. We hope this will be reciprocated by the businesses," she said.

In her address at the USIBC event, Swaraj said the US busi-

business opportunities for the US industry to partner with Indian public and private sector, and with a larger economy for a win-win outcome, she added.

"The business of diplomacy in India's present government is business. The government's priority from day one has been to make it easy to do business in India - and with India," Swaraj said.

While the two nations need to stand together on counter-terrorism and countering violent extremism, the "definitional issue of our time is" climate change, Biden said.

Secretary of State John Kerry echoed Biden, saying "We have entered a new era marked by a rapidly developing network of commercial ties, a deep well of affection that is growing between our two peoples, and a genuine warmth at the highest level."

Describing climate change as a great challenge, Kerry expressed support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's plan to help India's economy become more reliant on renewable sources of power.

"It is absolutely critical in the end on pure economic terms, but it's also smart politically, because a recent survey reported that 73 per cent of Indians view climate change as the most pressing global concern," he said.

"I believe that each of our countries this is really an historic mark and moment, because each of our countries came from the same colonial background. Each of our countries is ethnically and culturally diverse, and each is a laborer for peace, and each seeks a world in which the light of the human spirit overcomes darkness," Kerry said.

"And although differences of ideology have separated us in the

‘I believe that each of our countries this is really an historic mark and moment, because each of our countries came from the same colonial background. Each of our countries is ethnically and culturally diverse’ nesses are best placed to make their business decisions.

"We have plans to boost urbanization and we are determined to provide affordable power and housing for all. We want to connect manufacturing in India with global supply chains and target to develop product based and service based industrial and governance platforms around Digital India," she said.

All of these initiatives and plans present real commercial and

past, we are in the end, and I think that's what brings you here, the most natural of partners," he said.

In her address, Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker called for taking actions to address the impediments to growth faced by the businesses and economies of the two countries.

"Prime Minister Modi has publicly committed to moving India into the top 50 of the World Bank's 'Ease of Doing Business' rankings.

Improving contract enforcement

and modernizing bankruptcy practices are central elements to achieving that ambition," she said.

Today, the World Bank ranks India 186 out of 189 countries on the ease of enforcing contracts.

In fact, it can take years to resolve a contractual dispute with a vendor in India, and terms are too frequently reinterpreted after a deal has closed. These challenges make it incredibly costly and unpredictable to do business in India, and only serve to impede the operations and investments of Indian and foreign firms alike, she said.

"To address these issues, teams from the US and India will work together to share best practices and speed up the enforce-

ment process. American officials will share tools used by our judiciary to manage dockets and promote more efficient decision-making, and we will begin a series of judicial exchanges between our experts in the coming year," she said.

"Whether on contracts, bankruptcy, or the whole host of issues we will address through the Strategic and Commercial Dialogue, our primary objectives are clear to make it easier for foreign and domestic firms to do business in India and the US; to deepen our ties of trade and commerce; and to strengthen our bilateral commercial bonds in ways that benefit workers and businesses in both our countries," she said. PTI

India, US have to resist forces of intolerance: Biden WASHINGTON: India and the US have to resist the forces of intolerance and remain vigilant in

Speaking at the 40th Annual Gala of the US India Business Council (USIBC), he said America can be India's "best friend" and that the challenges of the current world bring the two countries closer than ever before.

"Both our nations have to resist the forces of intolerance and remain vigilant in our efforts to make our democracies stronger and more inclusive. It's not just the morally right thing to do, it's the economic necessary thing to do," the VicePresident said.

Biden's address, US Vice President, Joe Biden speaks at the 40th Gala event of US-India Business Council in his second major Washington DC on September 21 speech on India in the last 100 days, their efforts to make the world's also kicked off the inaugural Intwo largest democracies stronger dia US Strategic and Commercial and more inclusive, Vice President Dialogue.

Joe Biden said here.

Cont’d on page 6

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PM confident about deepening bond with US NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed confidence that his visit to the US will help further deepen the bond between the two countries by building on the "substantial ground" covered during his last trip and President Barack Obama's visit here earlier this year.

"This visit seeks to build on the substantial ground covered

USA at a "historic moment" when the United Nations is celebrating its 70th anniversary.

"India attaches great importance to the United Nations.

In July, I had written a letter to heads of governments of 193 nations outlining India's vision for UN agenda and reforms. I am glad that leaders of several nations wrote back appreciating our vi-

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

during my last visit to USA and President Obama's visit to India early this year," the Prime Minister said.

"I am sure my US visit will be fruitful and further deepen the bond between the world's oldest and largest democracies," he said.

Modi said he was going to

sion," he said.

In New York City, he will address the UN Sustainable Development Summit for formal adoption of post-2015 new sustainable development agenda.

"Coming from a culture that regards harmony as central to its ethos, I am glad to have an op-

portunity to address this forum.

The new goals are closely aligned with India's vision for sustainable development and our flagship programs for the same," the Prime Minister said.

"I will also participate in a summit hosted by President Obama on peacekeeping," he added.

He noted that India has historically been one of the largest contributors to the UN peacekeeping forces with 1,80,000 Indian troops having participated in UN peacekeeping missions - more than from any other country.

"We are proud of our peacekeeping forces spread across the world, ensuring peace in difficult circumstances. I will pay homage to all those brave men and women who sacrificed their lives for peace. And I look forward to sharing my thoughts on how to make peacekeeping more effective," he said.

This year, India will host a summit of G-4 leaders in New York where the main agenda would be the UNSC reforms.

"The 70th anniversary of the UN is an apposite moment for reform discussions to be accelerated. Recently, the UN General Assembly finally adopted a document after over 20 years that would form the basis of formal discussions on this matter," the Prime Minister said.

'Indian firms support over 411,000 jobs in US' WASHINGTON: Indian tech industry contributed nearly 411,000 jobs to the US economy this year and USD 20 billion in taxes between 2011-15 when American firms leveraged Indian talent to provide innovative and cost-competitive solutions to boost their global market share, a new report has said.

The NASSCOM report said Indian tech industry contributed more than USD 375 million to the US Treasury between fiscal year 2011-2015, and also helped America secure its borders.

The report 'Contributions of India's Tech Industry to the US Economy' was released by Union Commerce Minister Nirmala Sitharaman here ahead of the first Indo-US Strategic and Commercial Dialogue.

"Leveraging Indian talent, American firms have been able to bring better, innovative, costcompetitive solutions that have helped improve their global market share and bring products with shorter production cycles," Sitharaman said.

"This very timely report focuses on that part of the India-US bilateral equation, illuminating many of the benefits that Indian IT organizations bring to the US in period covered by the study," she said.

These benefits included USD

There is also the economic value of the operational support provided to over 90 per cent of Fortune 500 firms and thousands of other American businesses 2 billion in investments, hundreds of thousands of new jobs for Americans, USD 20 billion in taxes, and more than 120,000 American lives touched through philanthropic work supported by Indian organizations, she said.

National Association of Soft-

ware and Services Companies (NASSCOM) president R Chandrashekhar said during the period covered by the study "Indian tech industry alone has invested over USD 2 billion and paid over USD 20 billion in US federal, state and local taxes while also supporting 410,000 plus jobs in America."

He said this is only part of what India's IT sector brings to the equation. There is also the economic value of the operational support provided to over 90 per cent of Fortune 500 firms and thousands of other American businesses.

Indian IT firms make their US customers more innovative, competitive, primed for new market, and eager to expand jobs.

American customers benefiting from these services encompass every corner of commerce and size of business, he said.

According to the report, California, Texas, Illinois, New Jersey and New York are the top five American states where Indian IT companies have supported direct jobs.-PTI

Modi said he will also be meeting several world leaders during the visit and have interactions with leading investors and financial sector firms. There will be a working dinner where major Fortune-500 companies will be present to deliberate on investment opportunities in India.

"We have been interacting with several American business leaders over the last year and the outcomes have been encouraging," he said.

During his US visit, he will also be visiting the West Coast on September 26 and 27. "It would be after a gap of almost 33 years

you shouldn't miss," Modi said.

He will also visit Google campus and Tesla Motors.

"I will also see some recent technological innovations at the Google (Alphabet) campus and Tesla Motors," he said.

"An event that I am enthusiastic about is the 'India-US Start-up Konnect'," he said about an event where a group of Indian start-ups will showcase their innovations and forge partnerships with the vibrant American start-up industry.

He said India is emerging as a hub of start-ups in a wide range of areas and "we aspire to take

‘An event that I am enthusiastic about is the 'India-US Start-up Konnect',’ he said about an event where a group of Indian start-ups will showcase their innovations and forge partnerships with the vibrant American start-up industry that an Indian PM would be visiting the west coast the home of start-ups, innovation and technology," he said.

Modi will also be visiting Facebook headquarters at the invitation of its CEO Mark Zuckerberg and have a Townhall Q&A there.

"We will discuss some global issues and issues relating to India, particularly on the economy and society. This is a Townhall

this further. We want the world to see our innovation capabilities in the start-up sector".

In San Jose, he will interact with the Indian community on September 27.

"The Indian Diaspora has left no stone unturned in strengthening India-USA ties. We are very proud of the accomplishments of our Diaspora that has made immense contributions to both our societies," he said. -PTI

India, US have to resist forces of intolerance: Biden Cont’d from page 5

"We are in a new era of IndiaUS relationship," he said. "We're both major players on the world stage. And it's up to us - India and the US - to lead not by the example of our power, but by the power of our example. As I said, it's not just the morally right thing to do, it's in the long-term economic interests of India and quite frankly the whole world.

And it works," Biden said.

He said, "We need to stand together on counter-terrorism and counter violent extremism," adding, the most important issue of the era is the challenges posed by climate change.

Addressing top corporate leaders from the two countries, Biden said that ultimately commercial success depends on the development of human capital. It's India's greatest resource, he said, adding

that the US has benefited from that Indian greatest resource here.

"We've experienced it firsthand - 3 million Indian-Americans whose talents have shaped the fabric of this country in our schools, our hospitals, our research labs, in our courtrooms, in our government, in the arts and entertainment, and from Silicon Valley to Main Street," he said.

It is reflected also in the uniform so many Indian-Americans wear for the US military, he added.

Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Silicon Valley, Biden said that the visiting leader will see during his visit that "entrepreneurship is hardwired in the DNA of both Americans and Indians."

Observing that there is so much potential in trade and investment between the two countries, there is no reason that it cannot increase five times.-PTI

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'Indian IT companies not taking away jobs from US' WASHINGTON: Hailing the contribution of Indian IT companies to the American economy, Commerce Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said here that it was a "myth" that these firms were taking away jobs from the US, saying they generate lakhs of jobs and pay billions of dollars in taxes.

"Indian IT industry has definitely made a big contribution to the US economy," Sitharaman told a Washington audience on the occasion of releasing a report on contribution of Indian IT companies in the US brought out by NASSCOM. "There has always been a popular apprehension that Indian IT industry benefits from the United States and takes away job from the US," she said, referring to the report which said Indian tech industries this year supported an estimated 411,000 jobs in the US and have contributed federal tax of to the tune of more than USD 20 billion in the last five years.

"So they invest, pay tax to the US and bust the myth that jobs are being taken away from the US," Sitharaman said.

In her remarks, Sitharaman highlighted the important role of the Indian IT companies on corporate social responsibilities (CSR).

‘They invest, pay tax to the US and bust the myth that jobs are being taken away from the US,’ Sitharaman said "If you take the three top Indian companies the role by them played in CSR is just unbelievable," she said.

It is important to put on record that Wipro has spent USD 8 million to train teachers in the US in the field of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths, she said.

Infosys, she noted, has spent USD 6 million for creating facilities for expanding computer education.

And TCS has just announced a grant of more than USD 30 million towards a technology center in Carnegie Melon University, she said.

"These are examples that show that Indian companies do bring in some knowledge, create job. It is absolutely useful for public discourse. It assures the American company that they add to the US economy and do not take away jobs in India," Sitharaman said.

Indian Ambassador to the US Arun K Singh said Indian IT companies are playing an important role in the leadership role that the US has in the field of innovation.

The US is a world leader in innovation, and Indian companies through their work are contributing to profitability, competitiveness and innovation being done by US companies, he said.

According to the report, India-based IT services companies paid more than USD 20 billion dollars between 2011-2015 in US federal, state, and local taxes.

Cont’d on page 9

Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Penny Pritzker, US Secretary of Commerce along with others at CII- India Diaspora reception, in Washington on September 21

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India, US to speed up work for low-cost energy WASHINGTON: India and the US will speed up efforts to bring low-cost energy access to 200 million people in the country, Union Power Minister Piyush Goyal has said.

"I am delighted that the US and

"We have drawn up a roadmap to take the effort forward on a fast track basis," Goyal said.

"It was a very engaging dialogue, which has strengthened my confidence that the US and India can work together to expand

able and inclusive of clean energy solutions.

Insisting that India was committed to pursue a green path to growth, he elaborated on the government's ambitious plans for deployment of 175 GW Renewable

and biofuels.

Substantial headway has been made for the development of new technologies for distributed power generation through solar thermal route and development of new tools for improved building energy efficiency codes.

Presentations were also made

on various aspects of integration of clean energy sources into existing energy infrastructure in India, as well as mechanisms for promoting financing for clean energy and cleaner fossil energy sources. Avenues for advancing off-grid clean energy access was also discussed in depth during the Dialogue. -PTI

Nooyi, Bharatiya presented with USIBC award

Piyush Goyal, Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal, New and Renewable Energy and Ernest Moniz, the US Secretary of Energy leading their sides at the India-US Ministerial Energy Dialogue at the US Department of Energy, in Washington on September 21

India are partnering on so many issues related to energy, going forward we are looking at innovative financing solution for renewable energy," he said.

"We have decided to speed up our efforts to bring low-cost energy access to 200 million people in India who still do not have energy," he told PTI after the conclusion of the India- US Energy Dialogue here on the sidelines of the inaugural India-US Strategic and Commercial Dialogue.

US Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz led the American delegation for the Dialogue.

The American side appreciated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment towards climate change, Goyal said.

During the talks, several projects including research, energy storage, carbon sequester, carbon capturing were discussed.

the frontiers of knowledge on both sides," he noted.

The two countries are looking at deeper engagement in innovation, greening the grid with clean energy, modern technologies on solar and energy efficiency.

During the dialogue, Goyal

Power capacities by 2022, including 100 GW of solar and 60 GW of Wind, which may require investment of around USD 150 billion in the next seven years.

During the dialogue, presentations were made on progress made under various joint research pro-

Insisting that India was committed to pursue a green path to growth, he elaborated on the government's ambitious plans for deployment of 175 GW Renewable Power capacities by 2022, including 100 GW of solar and 60 GW of Wind, which may require investment of around USD 150 billion stressed on the objective of providing 24x7 power across India by 2019 by creating cost effective infrastructure which was sustain-

WASHINGTON: PepsiCo Chairman Indra Nooyi and Hindustan Times Group chairperson Shobhana Bharatia have been presented with the 2015 Global Leadership Award of the US India Business Council, for their commitment to driving a more inclusive global economy and their roles as women leaders.

Nooyi and Bharatia were honored with this prestigious annual award during the annual gala of the USIBC, the apex advocacy group for India and American companies in the US. US Vice President Joe Biden, Secretary of State John Kerry, among others, addressed on the occasion.

the Other India to get a real picture of what is happening in our country, and as a woman leader in a nation where women are finally coming into their own, I am delighted to receive this award."

"Our two countries, both democracies, have a strong and free media and I see increasing opportunities for collaboration as media and technology companies from India and the US navigate the evolving digital landscape," Bhartia said after receiving the award.

Renowned Indian-American artist, Natvar Bhavsar who is known for his abstract expressionism and "color-field" painting was awarded the Artistic Achievement

grams like Partnership to Advance Clean Energy - Research (PACER), including in the field of solar energy, energy efficient buildings

‘India can lead energy transformation’ WASHINGTON: As the world moves towards renewable energy, India is "well-suited" to lead energy transformation to a clean and renewable energy future, a top US energy official has said.

"The world is at a historic period of transformation in energy because of the rapid changes across the spectrum," Amos Hochstein, US Special Envoy for International Energy Affairs said in his address at the sixth annual India-US Energy Partnership Summit organized by TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute).

"I believe India is well-suited to lead this energy transformation and this process," Hochstein

said, "has to be not just about lowering greenhouse gas emissions, but rather about access.

"How do you create transformation in a country when you look at both the on and off grid broad spectrum of all things that need energy when it comes to India?

Because the size and diversity of India it requires us to look at the full range of options," Hochstein said.

Therefore, he said that India can be a "laboratory for innovations" and more so because of the diversity of issues that it faces.

In its endeavor to attain a clean energy future, he said, the US is "the best partner" that India can

have, given the shared experience of being federal democracies and innovations, especially in the financial sector that the US is leading in.

Ajai Malhotra, distinguished fellow, TERI, said India has the challenge of alleviating poverty while dealing with climate change issues.

India may be the third largest emitter of greenhouse gases, behind the US and China, but its per capita output is only one-third of the world average, he said.

"While India has made advances in developing infrastructure and communications, it has to take huge strides in developing clean energy," Malhotra said. -PTI

Pepsico CEO and Chairman Indra Nooyi speaks at 40th Gala event of US-India Business Council in Washington DC on September 21

Noting that USIBC plays a critically important role in strengthening the India-US relationship, Nooyi said, there are tremendous opportunities ahead to work together in new ways that capitalize on their collective strengths and pave the way to shared prosperity for the countries, companies and citizens.

Bharatia, also Editorial Director of the HT group, said, "As the representative of a media group that realizes the importance of looking at both India Shining, and

Award.

"My work aims to transcend boundaries and I am honored to receive this award that recognizes my Indian roots and my training in arts that took place in the United States," he said.

"I would not be the artist I am today had it not been for the inspirations that have guided me in my absorbing the gifts offered by both cultures, my birthplace India and my half a century's participation in the creative life of New York City," Bhavsar said. -PTI

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Govt clears deal for military helicopters from US NEW DELHI: Ahead of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has cleared a multi-billion dollar deal for 22 Apache attack helicopters and 15 Chinook heavy-lift choppers with American aviation giant Boeing.

"The deal for Apache and Chinook (helicopters) has been cleared," government

sources said. The CCS met after a Cabinet meeting, they said.

Many in the defense sector had expected the deal, valued to be over USD 2.5 billion and pending since 2013 following finalization of cost negotiations, to be signed during the visit of US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter in June this year.

The deal for Apache is "a hybrid one", with one contract to be signed with Boeing for the helicopter and the other with the US

government for its weapons, radars and electronic warfare suites.

The US has been pushing for this contract as it will further bolster American presence in the burgeoning defense market of India.

American companies have over the last decade bagged defense contracts from India worth

around USD 10 billion, including for aircraft like P-8I maritime surveillance planes, C-130J 'Super Hercules' and C-17 GlobemasterIII in the transport category.

The helicopter deal had survived over 10 price extensions from the American side with the last one being for a month as desired by India.

The contract will have clauses to place follow-on orders for 11 more Apaches and four extra Chi-

nooks.

Both platforms, which have been in combat in Afghanistan and Iraq, had beaten off competition from Russia, which had offered its Mi-28N Night Hunter and Mi-26 heavy-lift copters.

The 22 Apache AH 64D Longbow helicopters are one of the most advanced multi-role combat helicopters, featuring all-weather and night fighting features, ability to track up to 128 targets in less than a minute and engage with 16, besides stealth characteristics, advanced sensors and beyond visual range missiles.

India will also be acquiring Hellfire missiles and rockets. -PTI

'Indian IT companies not taking away jobs from US' Cont’d from page 7

They have also paid USD 375 million in 2011-2015 to the US Treasury including funds to help America secure its borders.

This is being paid for visa application fees for the qualifying firms.

India a 'shining star Speaking at a panel discussion on 'US-India Economic Ties: Ready for Takeoff?' organized by Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a top American think tank, here, Sitharaman said notwithstanding a financial crisis being experienced by major economies like China, India "stands out" as a "shining star" in the global economy and is sustaining a certain momentum despite challenges.

"India today stands out in (the) global economy," Sitharaman said in her remarks. Global demand, economy and prospects of looking at what could happen in next few months require a lot of light and positive energy, she said, adding that the depression in demand

is showing on all the economies.

"Notwithstanding, I still say, India stands out, to borrow a phrase from my finance minister as a shining star, because if you look at the parameters, we are still going to have between seven to seven and half per cent growth and that for an economy that still

stability, which today economies long to have," she said, adding that the fundamentals of the economy are very strong.

"India is an inviting investor's domain. I would like every investor to look at it," Sitharaman said.

In a world of depression where demand is not rising, here is a

In a world of depression where demand is not rising, here is a market which is waiting for quality goods, is the best place for investors and is the best place to produce, she said has challenges is sustaining a certain momentum within the Indian economy in spite of the global demand where it is," Sitharaman said.

"India gives you a steadier picture," she noted, referring to the "responsible" behavior of the Indian stock markets to the Chinese economic crisis.

"India offers certain sense of

market which is waiting for quality goods, is the best place for investors and is the best place to produce, she said.

For all this, the current government is addressing all the impediments including infrastructure and other lacunae, the minister said.

In just 15 months, Sitharaman said India is an energy surplus country.-PTI

Jindal leads Republican attack against Trump WASHINGTON: Indian-American US presidential aspirant Bobby Jindal impressed everyone as he took the lead in launching an attack against Republican front-runner Donald Trump, whose growing popularity has unnerved other party candidates, during the second-tier presidential debate.

Jindal, 44, though was relegated to the second tier of the debate along with three others because of their low popularity ratings; his vociferous attack on the billionaire businessman was felt even during the main primetime debate which lasted for several hours.

"Let us stop treating D o n a l d Trump like a Republican.

He's not a conservative. He's not a liberal. He's not a Democrat. He's not a Republican. He's not an independent," Jindal said at the top of the start of the Republican presidential candidates.

"Do we depend on proven conservative principles like Ronald Reagan did, or do we turn this over to a narcissist who only believes in himself," said Jindal in response to the first question thrown to him by the popular CNN anchor Jake Tapper.

During the course of the second Republican debate, Jindal appeared more confident and drew several rounds of applauses on his policy remarks.

He was reiterating his previously started positions in key issues like immigration, Obamacare and foreign policy.

"I don't have a famous last

name. My daddy didn't run for president. I don't have a reality TV show. I'll tell you what I do have, I've got the backbone, I've got the bandwidth, I've got the experience to get us through these tough times, to make sure that we don't turn the American dream into the European nightmare," Jindal said in his opening remarks amidst applause from the audience.

Later Jindal campaign declared victory as several media outlets gave high marks to the performance of the two-term Governor from Louisiana.

Bobby Jindal

"It was Louisiana Gov Bobby Jindal who established himself as the most die-hard conservative on the stage," Politico reported.

"For Louisiana Gov Bobby Jindal, the thing to underline was his hard-line challenge to Washington Republicans, who he said were caving in the face of Democratic pressure," The Washington Post said.

"Bobby Jindal won the first debate. He won because he wasn't willing to be a Republican partisan. He put his country first and told the truth," Red State said in its news report.

Thereafter rest of the pack of the Republican presidential candidates continued to attack Trump throughout the night.-PTI

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'Investors cannot ignore India's growth potential' SINGAPORE: Investors cannot done by Singapore's state-owned ignore India as it is the only town planner Surbana Jurong Pte economy in the world with poten- Ltd. tial of double-digit growth in the Speaking at the media interacnear future, Andhra Pradesh Chief tive session organized by the InMinister Chandrababu Naidu said stitute of South Asian Studies, a here.

"You are all aware (that) India nobody can ignore. It is a happening p l a c e .

Double-digit growth, if at all, it is possible only in I n d i a , " Naidu said here.

Chandrababu Naidu "Even China...is in a stagnation point," he pointed out. think-tank of National University India, he stressed, is well posi- of Singapore (NUS), Naidu tioned in the current economic pointed out that India has proscenario. duced some of the world's top Naidu was on a three-day visit corporate leaders and was no less to Singapore to brief investors on than any other country resources the development of the new wise, especially highlighting the Amaravati state capital. human capital.

Amaravati master plans were Indians are employed globally,

some of whom are leading top corporations.

In India, it is a matter of creating jobs as "huge opportunities" are available, he said, adding that further skill development programs were being implemented.

"Investors would be asked how many jobs they would create," said Naidu, pointing that during his last tenure as Chief Minister of the state he saw ev-

ery one job created, leading to five indirect employments.

Naidu went on to assure investors of favorable investment environment in Andhra Pradesh and India, citing the strong government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

He also stressed the need for right politics in managing people's welfare and imple-

menting the development schemes, and cited Singapore's example where progress have been made over the 50 years under the same government and administration as they are able to deliver.

He said Andhra Pradesh would compete among the world's top 10 investment destinations in "ease of doing business" in the near future. -PTI

BJP committed to resettling Kashmiri Pandits in Valley NEW DELHI: BJP leader Ram Madhav, who played a key role in forging his party's alliance with PDP in Jammu and Kashmir, has said that much more was needed to be done to resettle Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley but insisted that the coalition government was committed to it.

In an interactive session on Facebook, the BJP general secretary called the alliance as well as

the situation in the state "difficult", but said there was greater understanding between the two parties now.

Ram Madhav

Asked about BJP's promise of bringing Pandits back in the Valley, Madhav said, "The PDP-BJP government is committed to fulfilling the promise of resettling Pandits in the Valley with safety and honor. There is some progress. I agree much more needs to be done. We shall do everything possible in this direction."

About the difficulties reportedly facing the alliance, he said, "The government is trying its best to handle the difficult alliance on one hand and the difficult state situation on the other.

"There is greater understanding between the alliance partners now. Governance also has been imp r o v i n g steadily despite the opposition parties trying their best to create discord and hurdles."

He also mentioned the reported "unhappiness" among the people on the lack of correct information and also continuous misinformation courtesy "some of you (media)".

"Having said that, I agree that there is great scope for improving performance of the government."

-PTI

Mars mission will last for many years: ISRO BENGALURU: As it prepares to celebrate the first anniversary of its spacecraft's tryst with Mars, ISRO has said the mission to the Red Planet will last for "many years" as there is not much of a "problem" and they have not had any failures so far.

"Mars (mission) is expected to last for many years now, because it has gone through solar conjunction also; so we don't see much of a problem," ISRO Chairman AS Kiran Kumar told reporters here.

"We had planned it only for six months. Then we were not expecting so much fuel to remain after

we completed our insertion activity," he said.

Pointing out that about 35kg of fuel was still left, he said, "There is still a lot of fuel... all other subsystems are working fine and so far we have not had any failures."

Kiran Kumar was speaking on the sidelines of Prof Satish Dhawan Commemoration Lecture that was delivered by Dr K Radhakrishnan, a former chief of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).

The event was organized by the Institution of Engineers (India)'s Karnataka state centre here.-PTI

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Indian author S. Subramanium Indians in US form group to support Republicans in UK longlist NEW DELHI: An account of Sri Lanka's civil war by Indian author Samanth Subramanium has been longlisted for the Samuel Johnson prize, one of United Kingdom's most prestigious awards for non-

Samanth Subramanium

fiction.

Subramanium's book "This Divided Island" is among the 12 books longlisted for the 20,000 pounds worth prize whose shortlist will be announced in October during the London Literature Festival and the winner in November, publishers Penguin Random House said in a statement.

"The book tracks the rise of militant Buddhism, driven by monk politicians who hold extraordinary, extreme opinions," publishers said.

Driven by curiosity about the scars and legacies of a long war, Subramanian moved to Sri Lanka in 2011 and over the next year, he traveled across the island, and through Sri Lankan communities living overseas, talking to hundreds of people about how their lives were twisted out of shape by the war.

The prize is open to authors of all non-fiction books in current affairs, history, politics, science, sport, travel, biography autobiography and the arts.

Subramanium, a Delhi-based journalist, won the 2010 Shakti Bhatt First Book Prize for his first book of narrative non-fiction "Following Fish: Travels around the Indian Coast", which was also shortlisted for the 2013 Andre Simon Prize.

This year's judging panel, chaired by the Pulitzer prize-winning historian Anne Applebaum also longlisted the books "Guantanamo Diary" by Mohamedou Ould Slahi, "Ted Hughes: The Unauthorized Life

by Jonathan Bate", "Black Earth"

by Tim Snyder, "Fighters in the Shadows by Robert Gildea", "The Unraveling: High Hopes and Missed Opportunities in Iraq" by Emma Sky. "Nothing is True and Everything is Possible: Adventures in Modern Russia" by Peter Pomerantsev, "The Four Dimensional Human" by Laurence Scott, "Landmarks" by Robert McFarlane, "The Planet Remade"

by Oliver Morton, " Neurotribes: The Legacy of Autism" by Steve Silberman and "The Four-Dimensional Human" by Laurence Scott complete the shortlist. -PTI

Indian-origin man jailed for match-fixing SINGAPORE: An Indian-origin man in Singapore, rated by prosecutors as a "criminal match-fixer extraordinaire" has been sentenced to four years in jail by a court here for conspiring to fix a football match during the Southeast Asian Games held in March this year.

Rajendran R Kurusamy, 55, was sentenced to four years jail, the stiffest sentence ever imposed for a single match-fixing charge, Today newspaper reported.

Rajendran pleaded guilty to two charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act, involving payments to Orlando Marques Henriques Mendes, former technical director of the Timor Leste Football Association, and at least seven players of the Timor Leste Southeast Asian Games (SEA) football team.

Rajendran, had met Nasiruddin, an Indonesian, on March 20, and directed him to rope in others interested in fixing the match to ensure a defeat to Malaysia's football team on May 30, the paper said.

Rajendran wanted TimorLeste to not concede a goal in

the first 20 minutes, but eventually lose to Malaysia by a few goals. He offered Orlando SGD15, 000(USD 10,700), and SGD4, 000 (USD 2,844) to each complicit player, to ensure the defeat.

He also told Orlando that seven players would be enough to help lose the game, but it

The prosecution had described Rajendran as one of the most prolific match fixer here. ‘In fact, we would go so far as to state that the accused is a criminal match-fixer extraordinaire’ would be better if all 11 players were involved. The Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau arrested Rajendran, and others.

The match ended 1-0 in Malaysia's favor.

Pressing for a sentence of

four-and-a-half years, the prosecution, led by Deputy Public Prosecutor Nicholas Khoo, charged that Rajendran's ploy to fix a match in an international tournament hosted by Singapore tarnished the country's reputation, and would have distorted the true capability of the Timor Leste football team while denying the Malaysian team true sporting achievement.

The prosecution had described Rajendran as one of the most prolific match fixer here. "In fact, we would go so far as to state that the accused is a criminal match-fixer extraordinaire".

They also argued that Rajendran was a prime mover in the conspiracy and who played an integral role in arranging meetings to discuss the fix in Singapore and in Batam, an Indonesian island off Singapore, two months before the games, as well as provided the funds to move the plan along.

They also highlighted the transnational nature of the offence, where actors of an organized criminal group were "procured from abroad in order to execute a well laid out plan".-PTI

CHICAGO: A number of con- have to win and take the White servative-minded Indian-Ameri- House. This is the time when cans have formed a group to mo- Hindu-Americans should very bilize their large and powerful actively get involved," Kumar community for supporting Repub- said. lican candidates in their White He said while many Hindus are House run, saying this is a "very ideologically conservative-leanimportant time in history." ing, they have not yet mobilized The group, for which former to vote for Republicans.

Speaker of House Newt Gingrich Kumar, chairman of AVG Adhas agreed to serve as honorary vanced Technologies, is hoping chairman, has been named as Re- to organize a congressional delpublican Hindu Coalition (RHC) and modeled after groups like the Shalabh "Shalli" Kumar, a Republican Jewish CoaChicago-based industrialist, lition.

Shalabh "Shalli" initiated the group to proKumar, a Chicago- mote conservative prinbased industrialist, initiated the group to pro- ciples like free markets and mote conservative prin- limited government with a ciples like free markets and limited government focus on Indian-Americans with a focus on IndianAmericans. egation in India after they formally Though it is called the Repub- launch the coalition next month. lican Hindu Coalition, organizers The US and India can draw say it is open to all faiths. closer on a number of issues, in"This is a very important time cluding getting the US to rely more in history. The country has suf- on India for manufacturing than fered so much so dramatically in China, he said. the last eight years and another The RHC is proud of Louisiana four or eight years of the same Governor Bobby Jindal for his dedirection, the US as we know it, cision to run for next year's presiwill come to an end," Kumar was dential election. quoted as saying by Fox News.

Born in Punjab, Kumar migrated "We are actually giving away to the US in 1969. He was a supour economic future to China, the porter of the Democrat party until world is a lot less secure today he met President Ronald Reagan than it was seven years ago, and in 1979, becoming a staunch Reconservatives and Republicans publican.-PTI

No need to reconsider reservations: Centre NEW DELHI: The Centre has made it clear that it was not in favor of any review of the existing reservation system as more opposition parties attacked it over RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat's suggestion that it should be reconsidered.

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad reiterated the line he had taken at a briefing in the BJP office, saying this was the stand of the party as well the government.

"Our government is not in favor of making any change in the existing reservation policy for the SCs, STs, backward castes and extremely backward castes. We believe that it is necessary for their economic, educational and social progress.

There is no need to reconsider it," he said.

Prasad's assertion at a press

conference following the Cabinet meeting came even as BSP chief Mayawati, who has a sizable influence among Dalits in Uttar Pradesh, joined parties like Lalu Prasad-led RJD and Nitish Kumar's JD (U) in warning the government of nation wide stir if it tinkered with the quota system.

The former UP chief minister said the government will have to pay a heavy price if it dared to make change in the reservation system at the RSS' prodding.

In an interview to RSS mouthpiece Organizer, Bhagwat had pitched for a review of the reservation policy, contending it has been used for political ends and suggesting setting up of an apolitical committee to examine who needs the facility and for how long. -PTI

Tech News Unemployed youths to be skilled in Rajasthan JAIPUR: At least 6,000 unemployed youths having academic education will be 'skilled' in their respective fields of choice by 2016 end under a joint collaboration with the Rajasthan government.

Skilling youth enriching livelihood program for Rajasthan's unemployed youth would begin from September 30, and a toll free number is given for their registration on 1800 200 6168, Virtual Global Education Ltd (VGEL), Managing Director, G K Varshney, said.

Registration fee of Rs 600 for general category students and Rs 300 for reserved category students will be charged for two to three months of skill training, he said.

The first phase includes training for BPO, Nursing, Telecom, Accounting, and renewable/solar energy branches, he said.

This task was taken as per the Modi government's Skill India program and the Memorandum of Understanding with the Rajasthan government's Employment Skill Training Program, which was singed on December 24 last year, he said. -PTI

Cutting-edge software tech for India WASHINGTON: A venture capital fund backed by Reliance Industries Limited and a US-based technology firm have signed an agreement to bring into India cutting-edge software technologies that analyze complex, dynamic systems through physics-based pattern recognition.

Reliance-backed GenNext Ventures and Ecorithm's partnership was announced on the sidelines of the inaugural India-US Strategic and Commercial Dialogue.

Ecorithm's powerful suite of technologies can be applied to build systems and various other enterprise solutions to improve operations, optimize systems and minimize energy use, a media release said.

With 400 million sq ft of Class A Buildings in India and over 100 million sq ft under construction (Cushman & Wakefield, Marketbeat Office Snapshot Reports, 2015), India presents a significant opportunity to scale Ecorithm's technologies, it said.

"We have evaluated multiple energy management technologies from across the globe, and Ecorithm is clearly the next generation in building energy management," said Vivek Rai Gupta, Managing Director, GenNext Ventures. -PTI

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Global Chairman and CEO of General Electric, Jeffrey R Immelt interacts with the media in New Delhi on September 21

September 25, 2015

India will give better returns on investments, says Jaitley HONG KONG: Asserting that India would give better returns on investments than many other countries, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said here foreign investments can provide great additional resources for infrastructure and other sectors.

He said that the government is giving special focus on improving the ease of doing business in the country with initiatives like 'Make In India' designed to boost the manufacturing sector that has huge potential.

"India will give better returns than many other countries," Jaitley said here addressing investors and business leaders.

He said that foreign investments can give great additional resources and that the country's infrastructure sector needs huge investments.

"Railways, highways and power sectors are among those that require funds and the success of projects in these areas would largely depend on bankability," Jaitley said.

Jaitley was here seeking to attract foreign investors, including large asset managers, to the Indian markets. "Special focus is being given on improving ease of doing business. Investors have felt in the past that the procedures have been difficult in India," he said.

Digital India and Make in India (initiatives) are designed to give special boost to manufacturing and India has huge potential in these areas, he added.

GDP growth Jaitley said all macroeconomic parameters including fiscal deficit and inflation appear positive and hoped that GDP growth would outperform 7.3 per cent rate of last year.

He said the government is conscious of the fact that it needs large investments and resources and domestic investments were inadequate.

"Certainly, I think international investment is going to be a great source of resource for us and with all these economic activities (on-

going and fresh reforms) planned, even in the midst of somewhat gloomier global situation, I think India has the potential to stand out as a relative brighter spot.

"We grew by 7.3 per cent last year and I hope that we are able to outperform our last year's growth

good fiscal figures, Fiscal deficit is gradually coming down and we are now aiming to bring it down in the next 2-3 years to 3 per cent.

"Current account deficit down to 1.2 per cent, foreign exchange reserves are very high, inflation is very much in the control and there-

7.3 per cent in a significant way," he said. Jaitley further said this interaction with investment industry leaders could not have come at a better time.

"Time is significant as the world itself is witnessing a slowdown. The growth estimates for the world economy have been projected downwards. Along with that there has been a slowdown in the global demand and therefore a readjustment of investment by the investing community would obviously be taking place," Jaitley said.

Referring to slowdown in China, he said there have been concerns with regard to developments in this side of the world, particularly China.

"But I have not the least doubt in my mind that a very large economy that grew at a rapid pace in the last three decades, would still Union Minister for Finance, Corporate Affairs, Information, and Broadcasting Arun Jaitley with have to shoulder a large part of the burSingapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in Singapore on September 18 den of the global numbers," Jaitley said here at the fore the macroeconomic indications growth. inaugural APIC-India Capital Mar- all seem to be positive. But this is "Of course, investors would kets and Institutional Investors in the midst of a global slowdown. also be looking at alternate Summit.

"This is despite global sources for their investments and certainly they would be very carefully assessing which those alterOn one hand they have assessed India has a native sources are" he added.

There has always been a cauvery large market, a market where people have tious optimism in the investors' become very aspirational and want to grow, mind about India, he said. a market which has a huge pool of human "I say this because on one hand they have assessed India has a talent but also a country which at certain critivery large market, a market where cal times has not availed of the opportunities. people have become very aspirational and want to grow, a The minister said he was con- headwinds that are not helping us market which has a huge pool of scious of the adversities that and at times are creating adversi- human talent but also a country would come in the way and would ties, particularly the external fac- which at certain critical times has need to be overcome. tors have impacted our exports and not availed of the opportunities.

"India ended the last year with in favorable global conditions we Cont’d on page 14 7.3 per cent growth rate. We had can improve on the growth rate of

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Indian IT companies among world's worst paymasters NEW DELHI: Indian IT companies are among the 10 worst paymasters in the world, says a survey - a mid-level IT manager draws an average salary of USD 41,213 while his Swiss counterpart gets over four times more.

According to recruitment platform MyHiringClub.com's Worldwide IT Salary 2015 survey, India was ranked 7th on the list of lowest paymasters for information technology (IT) managers, down by one position from last year's.

While Indian IT managers drew an average salary of USD 41,213, Bulgaria topped the list with a meager USD 25,680, followed by Vietnam and Thailand averaging at USD 30,938 and USD 34,423, respectively.

"The impact of outsourcing and off-shoring on IT roles in North America and Western Europe helps explain the pattern of global pay," MyHiringClub.com & FlikJobs.com CEO Rajesh Kumar said.

The list includes Indonesia at the fourth spot with average

wages of USD 34,780, followed by the Philippines (USD 37,534), India (USD 41,213), China (USD 42,689), Czech Republic (USD 43,219), and Argentina (USD 51,380).

However, there is an increasing evidence of India's growing stature and presence in the high-end value chain, where cost advantages may not be the only drivers of future growth," Kumar added.

favorite outsourcing destinations due to this low-cost factor, but the future might bring with itself a completely different scenario," the survey predicted.

The survey compared the total annual cash compensation and total remuneration information of the mid-career level for IT staff at 9,413 companies across 40 different countries between August 1 to August 31, 2015. -PTI

7 of Indian origin face tax evasion charge "Lower-level roles are being moved to regions where talent is cheaper. The jobs that remain in Western Europe and the United States may be fewer in number, but are more demanding and complex.

At the other end of the spectrum, when it comes to countries that pay out the best IT salaries, Switzerland again topped the list with an average annual remuneration of USD 1,71,465. The same job

Cisco's John Chambers to be new USIBC chairman WASHINGTON: John T Chambers, Executive Chairman of Cisco, has been elected as the new chairman of the US India Business Council (USIBC), the apex advocacy group for India and American companies in the US. A formal announcement in this regard was made at the USIBC's 40th Anniversary Leadership Summit that kicked off the US-India Strategic and Commercial Dialogue.

The transition will come at the end of a four-year term of Ajay Banga, president and CEO of MasterCard. Banga has been its longest-serving chairman.

"John will of course be building on USIBC's 40-year legacy which we're celebrating tonight.

We look forward to working with John and supporting him as his tenure officially begins the first of next year," said Ajay Banga through a video message at the Council's 40th Anniversary Leadership Summit.

"As a long-time supporter of USIBC, I have witnessed the Council's influence rise dramatically as a direct result of the leadership provided by current chairman, Ajay Banga, and former chairs such as Terry McGraw and Indra Nooyi," said Chambers.

"With Prime Minister

if taken in Belgium, second on the list, would fetch USD 1,52,430, the survey said.

Denmark came in at third on the best-paying list, with salary in the IT sector averaging at USD 1,38,920. The US and the UK were ranked fourth and fifth, respectively, with average packages of USD 1,32,877 and USD 1,29,324, respectively.

"India remains one of the most

(Narendra) Modi's upcoming visit to the Silicon Valley, the important focus on building a digitally empowered nation through Digital India and the ongoing strategic and commercial dialogue, it is an exciting time to join the Council," he said.

Banga during his tenure, blazed

ship, increasing Council revenue and adding staff capacity at the Council's regional offices to serve members, said Mukesh Aghi, president of USIBC. "The Council and its board are delighted to welcome John Chambers as the new Chairman. His global business acumen will be instru-

John T Chambers

an equally impressive path by adding top American and Indian companies to the Council's member-

mental as we move forward to realize the full potential of US-India relations," Aghi said. -PTI

CHICAGO: Seven Indian-origin businessmen in the US have been charged with sales tax evasion of over USD 3.5 million and face up to 15 years' imprisonment.

Law enforcement authorities filed charges against Cherag Patel, Dipakkumar Patel, Jiggarkumar Patel, Mukesh Patel, Nishant Patel, Rajanikant Patel and Vishal Patel following a twoyear criminal tax investigation, according to a statement from the attorney general's office.

From July 2010 to December 2013, nine defendants, including the seven Indians, collectively defrauded the state out of more than USD 3.5 million in sales taxes, NBC Chicago reported.

Seven operators were charged with sales tax evasion of more than USD 100,000, a Class 1 felony punishable by up to four to 15 years in prison.

Yasir Kanan and Dipak Kumar were charged with sales tax evasion of more than USD 10,000, a Class 2 felony punishable by up to three to seven years in prison, according to the statement.

Five of those charged were arrested by Illinois Department of Revenue special agents, the report said.

The charges are the result of the criminal probe into untaxed liquor brought in from out of the state by the Illinois Department of Revenue's Criminal Investigation Division. -PTI

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September 25, 2015

www.indiapost.com

Hiring up 13% in August; likely pick up further NEW DELHI: Hiring activity witnessed a rise of 13% in August over the corresponding period last year, with banking and financial services industry leading the pack, a Naukri.com survey says.

Hiring activity witnessed a rise of 13% in August over the corresponding period last year, with banking and financial services industry leading the pack, a Naukri.com survey says.

Naukri Job Speak Index for August 2015 recorded a 13% increase in hiring activity over August 2014 and stood at 1,665.

"Job market seems to be moving north, sustaining the momentum gained over the first four months of this financial year with an impressive 13% year-on-year growth in August," Naukri.com Executive Vice-President and Chief Sales Officer V Suresh said.

Sector-wise, banking and financial services (BFSI) recorded the maximum increase in hiring activity, followed by healthcare,

pharmaceuticals, software, telecom and media and entertainment industries.

Meanwhile, hiring activity in auto and ancillary stabilized while the insurance sector saw a decline.

"This growth is led by sectors

crease in hiring activity in August 2015.

Among the metros, Hyderabad topped the chart with 24% increase in hiring activity on a yearon-year basis, followed by Mumbai (19%) and Pune (15%).

Bangalore saw a growth of

like IT, banking and pharma and we can expect other sectors to pick up in the next few quarters.

Looks like exciting times are ahead for job seekers," Suresh added.

The report further noted all metro cities registered an in-

13% and Chennai and Delhi recorded an increase of 10% each for the same period.

On the other hand, hiring activity in Kolkata remained stagnant in August 2015 from last year, the report said. -PTI

IDBI sees opportunities in development projects of Centre AHMEDABAD: IDBI Bank sees opportunities in the development projects initiated by the Modi government, especially in the railways, a top bank official has said.

IDBI Bank MD and CEO Kishor Kharat also said that he expects RBI to cut policy rate by 0.25 percentage point later this month.

"The government is coming out with a lot of development programs.

In the railways, Rs 8.5 lakh cr-worth programs have already been announced," Kharat said.

"With all these developments taking place, government needs banking organizations.

IDBI is in negotiation to provide the services," he added.

"We are the principal bankers of the Railways, so I myself went to the Railway Ministry and asked them why we cannot handle their entire business. We were falling short in giving presentations.

Now, they are convinced that this bank also has everything," he

said.

"Deduction of at least 0.25 per cent in repo rate is expected on September 29 policy review by the RBI," he said.

Kharat, who was here for an event organized by the Entrepreneurship Development Institute,

also inaugurated new branches of IDBI in Prantij town of Sabarkantha district and Romasana village of Mehsana district. With this, IDBI's branch strength in Gujarat reaches 191; Kharat said it will open another 250 branches in the country by March 2016.

"We are open to taking the business outside the country.

In most of the developing countries like Asian, African or GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries, development financial institute facilities are not there. IDBI Bank is preparing itself to go abroad with the DFI model.

"We are making strategy documents....once the strategy is approved we will implement it in next three to five years.

With this, IDBI will double its business in next three to five years," he said.

Kharat expressed hope that the economic situation will improve once the stalled projects restart. "Once the stalled projects of around Rs 6,000 crore, mostly in power, roads and infrastructure, start moving, it will have a positive effect." "There are many stalled projects on which the government is working right at the PMO level," he added.

Achieving a double-digit GDP growth is difficult in the current situation but the next three years will see growth rate of at least 8 per cent, he said. -PTI

IT dept to use email for issuing notices NEW DELHI: In welcome news ing Officer (AO). for taxpayers, the IT department "The taxpayer can respond has decided to launch a new sys- through the email and if we have tem of issuing email notices to some more queries we give you which an assessee can respond another notice by the electronic electronically, obviating the need medium so that both the AO and for a physical interface with the the taxpayer remain in an e-envitaxman which often led to com- ronment and, may be, during the plaints about harassment. final hearing when the AO wants The Central Board of Direct to close the matter, the taxpayer Taxes, the apex policy-making can come once to the tax office," body of the IT department, is work- the CBDT chief said. ing on a strategy to create the reShe said the purpose of introquired processes and capacity in ducing the system was to reduce this regard.

"We have been Kapur said if a taxpayer thinking how can we make life easier for tax- provides the department payers especially for with a bonafide email adthose who are in the dress in his Income Tax middle and the slightly higher tax bracket. So, Return (ITR), the Board will now we are thinking of be able to send him an eallowing that when a notice is issued in an notice and not a paper assessment or scrutiny document dispatched case, the taxpayer can through post send the department an e-response.

"We are trying to resolve some the interface between the taxpayer security issues in this regard now and the AO. after which it could be imple"The taxpayer can send documented," CBDT Chairperson Anita ments over email, scan them, upKapur told PTI in an interview. load them and it's over," she Explaining the procedure, added.

Kapur said if a taxpayer provides "It (scrutiny session) should the department with a bonafide be over and should not go beyond email address in his Income Tax that. This is the way we are trying Return (ITR), the Board will be able to address the issues of complito send him an e-notice and not a ance and limiting the interface bepaper document dispatched tween the taxman and the taxpayer. through post for which he usually This will be a sea change in our tax has to travel and meet the Assess- administration," Kapur said. -PTI

Govt begins work on National Electricity Plan NEW DELHI: Gearing up for its ambitious plan to provide 24x7 power to all, the government has started the process of drafting National Electricity Plan for next five years which will outline sector's projections, including generation.

The committee which has been entrusted to chalk out National Electricity Plan, has decided to constitute 11 subcommittees to deal with different aspects of the sector, the government said in an order.

The sub-committee-1 'Power for All' will suggest "measures for making available reliable and quality power to consumer at affordable rates" and make assessment "in terms of increase in demand... due to 'Power for all' schemes," the order said.

Another sub-committee will make demand assessment in terms of peak and energy requirements for the period from 2017-22 and 2022-2027, it said.

There is also a sub-panel which will assess the generation capacity addition during 2017-22 from grid-connected renewable energy sources, it added.

The sub-committee on fuel requirement will "identify and quantify the different types of fuel requirement to meet the capacity addition, source-wise fuel availability etc," it said.

As on July 31, the country's power generation capacity is 2.75 lakh mega watts. The total power generation in the country was 1,048.67 billion units during 201415, up from 967.15 billion units in 2013-14.-PTI

September 25, 2015

TechBiz Post

India Post

15

www.indiapost.com

India will give better returns on investments, says Jaitley not necessary to implement it from April 1, 2016, itself as it is a transactional tax and can come into effect from the first "Therefore the cautiousness in that optimism always date of any other month as well. remains there," he said, adding that now there are some "The Congress party is trying to delay the new tax, but significant reasons and factors where India is now changyou must remember, it is a transactional tax and not an ining. come tax.

"So, it can come up on the first of any month. Delay from April 1 Power distribution does not mean that it will go to According to him, some states April 1 of the next year. That only were not charging adequate tariff for happens in income tax," Jaitley electricity as a result of which the said here at a press conference health of power distribution compaon the last day of his four-day nies is being affected. visit to Singapore and Hong "These states cannot expect the Kong.

PSU banks to fund the deficit of On direct taxes and the penddiscoms," Jaitley stressed. ing disputes regarding some forMany discoms are grappling with eign companies, including acute financial stress.

Vodafone, Jaitley said most of the Jaitley said that a key priority of past issues have been resolved the government was to strengthen either by expeditious judicial adthe PSU banks. "Some weaker banks judication process or by asking could be merged with stronger banks expert panels. as just diluting stake would not re"I can't tell you the exact prosolve the problem of NPAs (non percess that we will follow, but my forming assets)," he added. objective is to have a resoluAcknowledging that stalled tion."

Union Minister for Finance, Corporate Affairs, Information, and Broadcasting Arun Jaitley with British Journalist Nik projects have impacted the balance Gowing during The Singapore Summit in Singapore on September 18 Promising an easy tax regime, sheets of private sector companies, he also dismissed the suggesJaitley said the proposed national investment and infrastructure fund would be a "great en- egation from India, had meetings with private equity, asset tions that the government has been trying to resolve this abler" to attract investment as well as help repair the bal- management companies and other institutional investors issue for a long time, but has not been able to do so. here.

"For the future, retrospective is over. MAT is over. Transance sheets of affected firms. fer pricing has been resolved. It is not that we have been The fund would operate independent of the government only talking about these things, we have been acting on it," GST rollout just as another investor, he added.

Promising a simple and globally competitive tax regime, he said.-PTI Noting that international investors are showing great interest in railways-related areas, the Finance Minister said Jaitley said the government is confident of the new GST the government has kick started many stalled projects in regime to roll out from the next fiscal and expressed confithe highways sector. He also said that pension funds can dence about an early resolution of pending disputes on direct taxes front. play a major role in the highways space.

While expressing confidence that GST would be passed In response to queries about opportunities in the manufacturing and construction businesses, the Finance Minis- in the Rajya Sabha as well in the next session, he said it's ter said he would be happy to encourage investment in the Cont’d from page 12

manufacturing sector.

According to Jaitley, setting up of 100 smart cities would give a boost to urbanization.

Besides, he expressed hope that many states would amend their land acquisition laws.

The Finance Minister, along with a large business del-

Saudi Arabia values role of Indian expats JEDDAH: Saudi Arabia highly values the contributions economy. of 2.73 million Indian expatriates working in the Kingdom "They play a vital role in strengthening the India-Saudi and the salutations and greetings in Hindi at the country's bilateral relations. Contrary to the public perception that third largest airport here is an indication of this. most Indians going to Saudi are laborers, we have nearly "We place very high importance to our relations with 5,00,000 Indians working as professionals here," the offiIndia. Good relations between the two countries are in the cial said. benefit of the people of the two countries," a senior Saudi He said the bilateral trade between Saudi Arabia and government official told PTI. India had grown from just over USD 25 billion dollars in 'Namaste', 'Swagat' and 'Dhanyawad' emblazoned on sign- 2010-11 to USD 48 billion in 2013-14. boards at the airport here is an indication of the priority "We have multifaceted relations with India. Our bilateral given by the Saudi business ties are beArabian government ing steadily expanded According to the India Embassy in Riyadh, and further strengthto its ties with India.

The importance Saudi Arabia is the fourth largest trade partner ened by continuous given to Hindi laninteraction and coopguage at the King for India and a major source of energy. India eration," the official Abdul Aziz Interna- imports around 20 per cent of its crude oil re- said. tional Airport here is According to the next only to Arabic, quirement from Saudi Arabia, which explains India Embassy in the local language, the fall in the bilateral trade figures for 2014-15. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and English. is the fourth largest Salutations and trade partner for India greetings in Hindi are flashed on the electronic message and a major source of energy. boards within the airport and even on the parking fee India imports around 20 per cent of its crude oil requirecounters. ment from Saudi Arabia, which explains the fall in the bilatOver 2.73 million Indian expatriates are working in oil- eral trade figures for 2014-15. rich Saudi Arabia.

During 2014-15, the bilateral trade reached USD 39.4 bilThey are working in the entire spectrum of Saudi lion registering a decrease of 18.96 per cent compared to economy from high-end scientific and research jobs to con- 2013-14 (USD 48.62 billion) mainly due to sharp decline in struction sector and contribute immensely to the Saudi oil prices since June 2014, the Indian Embassy said. -PTI

Desi News Patidars to extend grand welcome to PM Modi VINESH VIRANI

CHARLOTTE, NC: Often labeled as Chhote Sardar, India PM Narendra Modi has recently got embroiled in a reservation controversy not of his making. A group of Patidars organized a massive rally and demonstration in Gujarat recently demanding end of reservation and quota system for a section of society. And if that is not done, get Patidars also covered by the reservation system.

The demonstration and rally turned violent at some point introducing a sense of divide within the community at large that otherwise was getting well knit. It had its impact abroad, especially in this country, and again it got timed coinciding with the visit of the Indian PM to this country.

COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA www.indiapost.com

16 India Post

September 25, 2015

India Post News Service

FREMONT, CA: As Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit nears, the excitement is rampant across

and privilege to be a part of this occasion to honor Prime Minister Modi. Prime Minister Modi's leadership extends beyond just economic initiatives; it strives to revive and build upon our rich cul-

'Digital India' great vehicle to empower the disabled PRANAV DESAI

P

Details on page 19

Enthralling Kabbadi & Volleyball contests Asian Media USA

CHICAGO: Punjabi sports lovers from the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin and Ohio turned out in huge numbers to enjoy Kabaddi and Volleyball Tournaments followed by a vibrant cultural program at Elk Grove Village, Forest Preserve grounds in Chicago. The event was organized by Punjab Sports & Cultural Club In the Kabaddi Cup Tournament, there were three Teams from India, USA, and Canada. In the final match, USA Kabaddi Team defeated the Indian Team by scoring 38 points against 19 and won the first prize.

Details on page 23

Details on page 26

Festive atmosphere building up to welcome PM Modi

Details on page 18

eople of Indian origin in the US are living in historic times where Microsoft CEO, Google CEO and several other CEOs are of Indian origin. Specifically in Silicon Valley, we have a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, Venture capitalists and large pool of technocrats with Indian origin, who are working on transforming our world through technology solutions. To leverage and channelize these Indian strengths in a global market, Indian PM Narendra Modi has launched Digital India to apply technology to solve our problems in India.

Power of Divine Love makes God forget about his Godliness

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

the community, from the performers during the event to the academicians prior to the event. All are coming together to celebrate the arrival of Prime Minister Modi to the Silicon Valley and to welcome the initiatives of his that promise to transform India into an economic super power.

At the Community Reception

tural heritage. It's a true honor and we look forward to an exciting event."

Following the Southern California performance, the Northern California dance company the Mona Khan Company, which has performed with Bollywood celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan and at events like the Indiaspora Inau-

A coalition of American academicians from reputed universities across the United States put together a statement extending a welcome to Prime Minister Modi in advance of his trip to Silicon Valley. on September 27, which is scheduled to begin at 5:30 pm, a series of amazing performances from across California are being planned.

The first of which is a beautiful dance performance by the dancers of the Nrityodaya Kathak Academy of Los Angeles.

Bhairavi Kumar, the founder of the school, said "It is a great honor

gural Gala in Washington D.C. in honor of President Obama's second term in office, will also be performing at the event.

"We at the Mona Khan Company are thrilled and humbled to have the opportunity to perform in the presence of the esteemed Prime Minister of India. We are so thankful to be able to showcase our love for dance and the

beauty and diversity of our culture at this incredibly momentous event." said Shobana Shankar from the Mona Khan Company.

While these dance troupes rehearse repeatedly in order to put on the perfect show for the Prime Minister, various groups are showing their excitement in other pre-event ways.

A coalition of American academicians from reputed universities across the United States put together a statement extending a welcome to Prime Minister Modi in advance of his trip to Silicon Valley. The statement which discusses Digital India and other such issues is signed by over 150 academicians from some of the country's most prominent colleges and universities.

Notably, within the list, there is a very strong representation from faculty in engineering disciplines, who are some of the most knowledgeable individuals about the various technological initiatives being undertaken by Prime Minister Modi's government. Beyond the technical disciplines, the statement also drew signatories from the liberal arts schools, the business schools and the medical schools.

In part, the statement read "We welcome‌Prime Minister Modi's support for the Digital India initiative that heralds a new age of participatory democracy and enhances transparency in governance in India, leveling the playing field for vast numbers of India's citizens.

We recognize the indigenous talents of Indian scientists to develop the infrastructure to effectuate Digital India and other initiatives predicated on technological advancements, even as we express our hope that Prime Minister Modi will seek partnership with American academic and business leaders with the expertise and experience to ensure that Digital India realizes its potential without imperiling India's privacy laws and individual liberties."

Ashvini Bhave as emcee

Actress Ashvini Bhave, journalist Raj Mathai, and comedian Rajiv Satyal will share the stage as emcees for the Community Reception.

Ashvini BhavĂŠ, a well-known Bollywood actress and longtime resident of the Bay Area, has mesmerized audiences with her theater, television, and cinema performances.

Her acting career has spanned over 40 films with several criticallyacclaimed performances in films such as Kalat Nakalat, Ahuti, Ashi Hi Banwa Banvi, Bhairavi, Purush, and, the blockbuster film, Heena.

Her more recent projects have focused on social causes, and she has played the role of Executive Producer and Director on such projects. In addition to receiving a degree in Motion Picture and Television from the Academy of Arts University, San Francisco,

Ashvini Bhave

CA, she also has a degree in Philosophy from the University of Mumbai.

When asked about the upcoming reception, Bhave states, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a transformational force that India has been waiting for! I'm honored and privileged to be the emcee at the reception to welcome PM Modi to Silicon Valley, and I'm eager to play my part to make the entire event a grand success! I'm looking forward to have him inspire us with his vision for the New India."

Cont’d on page 19

September 25, 2015

Community Across America

India Post 17

www.indiapost.com

Modi visit will galvanize community to back his initiatives India Post News Service

S

iddharth Bhavsar is member of organizing committee for Prime Minister, Narendra Modi's public event in Silicon Valley. He was also Founding Member of the Campaign Management Support team of Narendra Modi during Lok Sabha 2014 which conceived and executed a number of high profile projects across India which created Guinness Records for the scale and audacity of conception and execution unprecedented in the history of world democracy.

He is also a technology entrepreneur and has co-founded multiple cutting edge technology ventures across multi sectors including healthcare, biotech and Social Commerce. In the following inter-

professions are coming together to make this event happen.

Besides I am particularly excited because of the impact he has in galvanizing any community he addresses to come forward in full support for his initiatives. One particular initiative he will be promoting is the Digital India movement to digitize India.

It will have several far reaching benefits for India and Silicon Valley. It will focus the community's attention on India and the great initiatives that are underway. It will inspire people to come and apply their innovative minds towards solving India's challenges which provide a huge opportunity.

As a part of the events team, how are you preparing for the visit?

SB: Everyone is working hard to make this event a success.

We are ensuring that everyone who attends including the dignitaries and community members have a great time.

The ensuring every 'I' is dotted and 'T' is crossed right from the complete security & logistics of prime minister's Siddharth Bhavsar with Prime Minister, Narendra Modi movements to working with the view he shares his views about PM local government for proper crowd and traffic management , to the culModi's visit to Silicon Valley: tural programs to interfacing with Are you excited about Modi ji government officials, to providing a smooth registration process for coming to the Silicon Valley?

Siddharth Bhavsar: I am very attendees to passes allocations to excited about Modi ji's visit. After them etc.

Everyone is working hard to make this event a success. We are ensuring that everyone who attends including the dignitaries and community members have a great time. The ensuring every 'I' is dotted and 'T' is crossed right from the complete security & logistics of prime minister's movements independence it's only the 3rd time that India's prime minister is visiting the bay area. He is the most popular Indian prime minister since independence and a great orator. The entire indo American community in Bay area is excited to listen to him. That's why a large number of communities have come together to organize a grand reception for him. The event has been oversubscribed by more than 3 times the capacity within 5 days of opening up of registrations!

More than 500 community organizations across the entire spectrum of language, culture, region, faith,

Since Morarji Desai in 1978, Modi will be the first PM to visit the valley, how do you think the Diaspora will be impacted by his visit? What are some of the expectations from the thought leaders here?

SB: It will have a significant impact. As the event nears India is becoming a topic of discussion not only across the Indian American community but across all sections of stake holders in the innovation ecosystem of Bay area including the thought leaders and investors who are taking a closer

Volunteers for Modi visit meeting on Sept 13

look at India, a closer look at the current prime minister and his impressive body of work in the past one year as prime minister across the spectrum. The notable thing is that he is not only someone who initiates policies and programs but someone who actually success-

fully executes them and creates records while doing do.

The Bay area through leaders are feeling inspired by his commitment and are galvanizing efforts to apply their leadership towards solving the challenges that India faces both in terms of intellect and

investments.

It's a great win-win situation for India and for Silicon Valley to tap into the huge opportunities that India offers enabled by a government that's working hard to make India a predictable and safe investment destination.

18 India Post

Community Across America

September 25, 2015

www.indiapost.com

Patidars to extend grand welcome to PM Modi VINESH VIRANI

CHARLOTTE, NC: Often labeled as Chhote Sardar, India PM Narendra Modi has recently got embroiled in a reservation controversy not of his making. A group of Patidars organized a massive rally and demonstration in Gujarat recently demanding end of reservation and quota system for a section of society. And if that is not done, get Patidars also covered by the reservation system.

The demonstration and rally turned violent at some point introducing a sense of divide within the community at large that otherwise was getting well knit. It had its impact abroad, especially in this country, and again it got timed coinciding with the visit of the Indian PM to this country.

Many Indians are dismayed as

it is a flash point which can create a division within the community with far reaching impact. Most Patidars want to disassociate themselves with this type of move-

Patidars living in the United States and the people who support the rally against Prime Minister Modi at United Nations are a miniscule number who are misrepresenting

Sardar Patel and Narendra Modi

ment. Especially, they would not the community. like to have demonstration staged "Mr Modi is coming here to in the name of Patels or Patidars. further a bigger vision that he Baldev Thakor and others have holds for India and instead of suptaken a public stand and have as- porting his vision, some people are serted that the Patidar community trying to thwart his vision for of the United States has unani- petty political gains which the mously opposed the proposed majority of us feel is not right," rally against Indian Prime Minis- said Ravi Patel of Sree Hotels. ter Narendra Modi at the United Narendra Modi, Indian Prime Nations on September 25.

Minister is visiting the United "As members of the overseas States between 23 and 28 SeptemPatidar community, we condemn ber. During his visit, he is expected it. This is an exercise in political to meet tech giants, entrepreneurs mud-slinging and we do not want in the Bay area to promote the Digito be a part of it," said Baldev tal India campaign and address a Thakor, President of Maya Hotels and a concerned Patidar commu"Mr Modi is coming here to nity member. "We wholeheartedly support further a bigger vision that Modi in his initiatives to he holds for India and intake the country to greater heights" he stead of supporting his added. vision, some people are The group believes that the agitations in trying to thwart his vision for India and now in US are petty political gains politically motivated and these protests do not represent the voice of the en- 20,000 strong Indo American comtire Patidar (Patel) community. munity in San Jose, California. He "We Patels in the US are not is also expected to speak at the taking any sides. Our intention is United Nations. to make everybody aware that not Patidars in US are an industrievery Patidar is against Prime Min- ous and peace loving community ister Modi. We do not support that has progress of India close to people who are tarnishing the their heart. This community comreputation of our community and prises Leuva Patidar Samaj of the great country of India," said USA, Charotar Patidar Samaj of Danny Patel, President and CEO USA, Kadwa Patidar Samaj of of PeachState Hospitality.

North America and Patel Samaj of There are about 150,000 Mehsana.

Community Across America

September 25, 2015

India Post 19

www.indiapost.com

'Digital India' great vehicle to empower the disabled PRANAV DESAI

P

eople of Indian origin in the US are living in historic times where Microsoft CEO, Google CEO and several other CEOs are of Indian origin. Specifically in Silicon Valley, we have a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, Venture capitalists and large pool of technocrats with Indian origin, who are working on transforming our world through technology solutions. To leverage and channelize these Indian strengths in a global market, Indian PM Narendra Modi has launched Digital India to apply technology to solve our problems in India.

There are hundreds of companies in the US including Microsoft, who are operating in Assistive Technology sector, developing new products, innovation to help visually impaired or autistic children and address many types of disabilities to enable them live independently and empower them to live with dignity. In last 25 years, thousands of products have come out in the market and competition is increasing however the products are still highly unaffordable by large population in India and around the globe.

Disability is highly ignored so-

Showing opportunities in Assistive Technology to Empower Specially Able People

Google Foundation and similar other CSR initiatives are specifically looking for ideas and opportunities to fund and promote Assistive Technology sector.

Competition has already started from China with large allocation of resources by the Chinese Govt. and if India does it with speed and scale, we can also tap into this huge opportunity on the strength of its tremendous skills in terms of pool of technocrats

Dr Desai with PM Narendra Modi during his visit to India

cial issue in our Indian society. Our 21st century Indian society is yet to become fully inclusive, accessible, respectful of rights of 70 MN people with disabilities, provide them opportunities and accept them into main stream society. Traditional perspective of welfare and charity is not sustainable. Fortunately current The Indian Government, under the leadership of Narendra Modi, has shown tremendous commitment to address some of the core issues of Accessibility, Education, Employment for People with Disability through 7 stated goals of his Government, such as e-learning, accessibility provisions, comprehensive rights bill, special funding for skill development of Specially Abled People etc.

This indicates a huge "untapped" market opportunity for innovations to bring the cost down to capture not only Indian market but global market of approx 1 BN people with disabilities.

when they hire Specially Abled Person through upfront investment into Assistive Technology products and solutions.

With the visit of PM Narendra Modi to Silicon Valley to inspire and invite technology leaders to look at opportunities with Digital India, Make in India initiatives, we believe that it is a historic opportunity for investors, innovators and social entrepreneurs of Silicon Valley to look at Assistive Technology sector for achieving economic as well social goals, contribute in nation building and strengthen our PM's vision of Digital India.

We hope that as an impact of the visit and Digital Dinner with IT business leaders of Silicon Valley, we will see a rise in the contri-

tives to do business in India so not only we create jobs and take care of our Specially Abled People but also tap into large economic opportunity linked to 1 BN population worldwide.

Our efforts are further strengthened by the support from USIBC (US India Business Council) as they have clearly identified this as is one of the areas between the US and India where bilateral trade can be promoted, US companies can look at Indian advantages, market opportunities and achieve the scale to expand globally.

There are several options to promote innovation in collaboration with IITs, provide technology know how to Indian companies, start operations in India, consider partnership projects with Govt. undertaking etc.

We are also working through several chambers of commerce in India and other trade organizations (National HRD Network, FICCI etc.) to promote employment of People with Disabilities as there are thousands of Assistive

both in the US and in India supported by IITs and successful Indian origin community of Silicon Valley. For example, we can help millions of Indian students by developing mobile apps or web based learning solutions, resources as part of elearning initiatives with HRD ministry. We can Our efforts are further develop tool to test all strengthened by the support websites and upgrade them to make compliant from USIBC (US India Business to accessibility stan- Council) as they have dards. clearly identified this as is We at Voice of Specially Abled People are one of the areas between the relentlessly pursuing US and India where bilateral Govt. of India and its trade can be promoted�

Commerce ministry, Social Justice and Empowerment (Disability Department) Technology and ICT products Ministry, HRD (education) Minis- available in the market because of try and several state govt. to come technology innovations that enup with the policy and plan to in- abled them to perform the jobs. vite Assistive Technology compa- There is a much larger economic nies to India and provide incen- benefit and impact for companies

bution of Silicon Valley towards Assistive Technology led Empowerment agenda of Specially Abled People of India.

Voice of Specially Abeld People is a group of volunteers and we welcome suggestions from the readers to strengthen the cause and Empower millions of Specially Abled People in India. You can email us at pmvisit@voiceofsap.com About Author Pranav Desai is a founder of Voice of Specially Abled People (www.voiceofsap.com) and and IT business executive in California, USA. His vision of "Accessible India Campaign" published on NITI central on Sept 23, 2014 has resulted into its launch by Govt. of India.

Festive atmosphere building up to welcome PM Modi Cont’d from page 16

Raj Mathai Six-time Emmy award winner Raj Mathai is the weeknight news anchor for NBC Bay Area and is among the Bay Area's most wellknown TV personality. He also hosts a series titled "The Inter-

Raj Mathai

view." In 1995, Mathai became the country's first Indian sportscaster.

Prior to his career in television, he served as a public relations assistant for the San Diego Chargers for five seasons. Mathai was born in Trivandrum, Kerala, India. He lived in Mumbai until age 7 when he moved Palo Alto, California.

Rajiv Satyal No stranger to the stage himself, Rajiv Satyal, represents the second generation of Indian Americans. Satyal is a standup comedian and writer originally from Cincinnati, Ohio. He hosts his own weekly show at the Laugh Factory in Hollywood and has been featured on numerous media outlets. In August 2014, Rajiv released a video, I Am Indian, that went massively viral. He co-cre-

ated the world-touring Make Chai Not War, a Hindu/Muslim standup show that was sponsored by the U.S. State Department and traversed seven Indian cities. He recorded 127 episodes of his podcast, The TanGent Show.

Rajiv produces sketches, improvises, and writes TV ads. This LAbased funny man challenges people to see a new point-of-view.

Regarding Prime Minister Modi and the Community Reception, Satyal says, "As an Indian American comedian/host, this is the ultimate job - playing Master of Ceremonies for the Indian Prime Minister in America. As a product of the two greatest democracies in history, I'm free speech squared...When I left Ohio to be a standup comedian in California, [my parents] simply wanted the best for me. Well, Mom & Dad, I didn't open and lead a billion-dollar startup. But I am opening for Prime Minister Modi, who is the

Rajiv Satyal

leader of a billion-person startup."

For more information on the September 27th event, please visit www.pmmodiinca.org or follow us on twitter @pmmodiincalifornia.

20 India Post

Community Across America

September 25, 2015

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Kerala Medical Graduates' convention a big success AJAY GHOSH

PHILADELPHIA: The 36th annual convention of the Association of Kerala Medical Graduates (AKMG) at the Downtown Marriott in Philadelphia, September 5-7, was attended by hundreds of doctors and their families from the US, Canada, England and India.

The AKMG was formed three years earlier than the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin. The three-day convention began with a cruise around Philadelphia. On the second day, Onam was celebrated with traditional festivities including a reception to King Mahabaili with thalapoli and chenda melam followed by an Onam feast.

Various seminars, CME classes and campus comedy night which showcased the artistic talents of the doctors were the highlights of the convention. At the literary seminar several doctors read their literary works including poems. Dr MV Pillai, who moderated the event, noted the contributions of doctors like Dr Siddharth Mukherji and Dr. Abraham Verghese for literature.

During the gala on the concluding night, Dr Alex Thomas handed over the charge to incoming president Dr Sunil Kumar from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Dr Kumar, in his in augural address, said he will work to strengthen the organization and improve relations with other organizations like Fokana

and Fomaa and also with organizations of other medical professionals. The attitude of the physicians keeping aloof from other medical professionals has no place in the US. An aggressive move to enroll more members, especially youngsters, will be launched soon. As

Kerala. AKMG will strengthen the relations with AAPI, which can work nationally. Dr Kumar also promised to help Indian American candidates running for elections pointing out that they deserve our support as part of our community irrespective of party affiliations. Dr Kumar announced that the next

quoted Silicon Valley experts who said that machines will replace 80 percent of the work currently being done by doctors. In future, the patient could sit at home and consult the doctor. "Yet the importance of the physicians or the profession will not be diminished. The roles may change," he said.

AAPI President Dr Seema Jain with AKMG honorees

always, AKMG will continue the focus on charity activities and help the medical colleges back in

At the literary seminar several doctors read their literary works including poems. Dr MV Pillai, who moderated the event, noted the contributions of doctors like Dr Siddharth Mukherji and Dr. Abraham Verghese for literature.

convention will be held in Miami Beach on July 14-16 in 2016.

Dr Seema Jain, president of AAPI, noted that AKMG inspired the formation of AAPI. At the concluding public meeting, Dr Jain said there are more than 110,000 doctors and medical students of Indian origin in the US. The number of medical students is estimated at 38,000. In some universities, more than 30 percent of the students are of Indian origin.

She said. "AAPI continues to play a major role in health care in this country. We played a crucial role in securing the approval of Dr Vivek Murthy as Surgeon General." Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whom she met recently, is keenly watching the activities of AAPI and in his future plans AAPI has a special place. She asked all the Indian physicians to join AAPI. Anto Antony, MP, the only political leader from India to attend the event, praised the achievements of Indian doctors using the knowledge gained from India.

Once their departure from India was considered as brain drain, but now they are the brain bank of the country.

Dr Azad Mooppan, who runs upscale hospitals in several countries and five states in India, employing more than 13,500 people,

Dr Alex Thomas, president of AKMG, noted that there are about 4000 doctors of Kerala heritage but only a few are associated with AKMG. He commented on the partnership between Jefferson University and Aster Medcity, in Kochi, India, spearheaded now by a second generation AKMG member from Jefferson University in Philadelphia.

Dr Kurian Abraham, patron of the AKMG, said that medical education is very expensive in America and many young doctors are more concerned about repaying the huge student loan they have taken, which has high interest rate too. They are more focused on career and money than social activities, he pointed out.

Dr Joseph Mathew, convention chair, Dr Narendra Kumar, former president of AKMG and AAPI, Dr Aravind Pillai, former president of AKMG and current chair of the AAPI Board of Trustees, addressed the delegates at the convention.

The cultural events included Amrutha Sandhya, a dance program by New Jersey based Kalashri School led by Bina Menon. The entertainment for the concluding night on Sept 6 was the Bobby Chemmanur Jayaram show.

Verizon app challenge for students is back India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The Verizon Innovative App Challenge is back, to encourage students nationwide to organize their teams and submit their cool app ideas now. Absolutely no coding or technology skills are necessary to win.

In its fourth year, the App Challenge calls students to g a t h e r t e a m s , dream up ideas and create concepts for mobile apps that could solve problems in their schools and communities. And for the first time this year, the App Challenge will be open to teams representing non-profit organizations in addition to schools, and even more students will earn free tablets and

cash awards for the groups they represent.

Best in Nation App Challenge winners will receive a total of $20,000 for their school or organization and the chance to turn their app idea into a real working app available for download. Best in State winners will earn $5,000 grants for their school, club or

group, as well as tablets for each winning team member.

The deadline for submission is November 24 and the winners will be named in January 2016.

September 25, 2015

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India Post 21

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An evening of authentic Kuchipudi from India SUNTHAR VISUVALINGAM

CHICAGO: Sriranga Dance Academy organized a cultural evening presenting Kuchipudi dances on Saturday, September 12 at the Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago.

It turned out to be a memorable event as beautiful tales from India were brought to life by the brilliant choreography of Vyjayanthi Kashi, renowned Kuchipudi danseuse.

The accompanying dancers, Prateeksha Kashi - daughter and disciple of Vyjayanthi and Srivani Vokkarane - Artistic Director of Sriranga Dance Academy did justice to the choreography through their flawless dancing.

The recital began with a unique item titled 'Body the Temple'. Inspired by the concept of Gayatri Mantra and Poorva ranga vidhi (the invocation item in Kuchipudi), the item laid emphasis on body being the instrument of expression for a dancer. It was a powerful start with beautiful annotations stressing on body language, speech, way of presentation and subtle expressions. Vyjayanthi and Prateeksha complemented each other in portraying masculine and feminine aspects respectively with ease and perfection.

Next was a piece centered on the concept of five elements - sky, wind, water, fire and earth. The well narrated English commentary by Vyjayanthi in between the songs proved her versatility. The Vedic chants and the Panini stotra, the 14 syllables that emerged from Shiva's damaru, was well incorporated with the display of Karanas that made it a visual treat. The creative usage of colorful properties enhanced the overall ef-

Guru Vyjayanthi Kashi, Prateeksha Kashi & Srivani Vokkarane

fect of this piece.

The story of Lord Rama from his birth to coronation was depicted in a crisp manner

by Srivani in her solo piece. She effectively executed the various episodes of Ramayana Shabdam and her command over the technique in the rhythmic passages was impressive. The Mohana Raga chosen for this song brought out the lilting aspect of Kuchipudi.

Prateeksha chose for her solo piece the fast paced item 'Shankara Srigiri'. In this popular composition of the famous poet Swati Tirunal, she powerfully brought out the Tandava aspects of dance. With steps that were energetic and controlled expressions, Prateeksha won the hearts of the art connoisseurs.

The recital came to an end with a grand finale, the story of the ugly hunched woman Kubje, a staunch devotee of Lord Krishna.

Every road she walked, every corner she turned, Kubje faced humiliation. Stones were pelted, water sprayed and glances

Prateeksha Kashi, Guru Vyjayanthi Kashi and Srivani Vokkarane.

Pics Rajesh Nayak

turned away. Srivani enacted the introduction of Kubje and expressed the act of mortifying Kubje.

Vyjayanthi was so engrossed in her presentation of Kubje that it brought tears in the eyes of the audience.

It was a good example to show that when Bhava is deeply embedded in a dancer, the audience will automatically experience the bliss of Rasa. Prateeksha

immediately switched into the attire of the young and charming Lord Krishna. The Natya elements of Kuchipudi were significantly seen in this piece.

It was a warm gesture by the Chief Guest Dr Saradapurna Sonty and her husband Dr Sriram Sonty who felicitated Srivani for her efforts in organizing the program. Then came the surprise element when Srivani honored her Guru Vyjayanthi Kashi with the 'Vyjayanthi Vibhooshite Award' for her immense contribution to the field of dance.

This was an emotional moment and a befitting way to conclude the evening.

Community Across America

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September 25, 2015

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Umiya Mataji Garba & Jyoti Rath celebrated IPNS & Asian Media USA

CHICAGO: In the presence of 5,000 devotees, dozens of distinguished community leaders, generous sponsors, committee members, super donors, and committed Boards of Trustees and volunteers, Shree Umiya Dham Chicago Midwest (SUDCM) recently organized a signature event honoring and celebrating Shree Umiya Mataji Garba and Jyoti Rath Swagat (reception) ceremony at the Odeum Expo Center in Villa Park Illinois..

Shree Umiya Mataji committee members planned this 2-day event at their own expense. The event included video highlights of Jyoti Rath Vidai Ceremony in Unjha, Umiya Mataji Garba, Uchamani (Auction) related to Jyoti Rath and

Shree Ganesh Struti was performed by Kirit Patel and Dr Heena Patel.

Welcoming all guests patrons and supporters, Chhotalal Patel, Chairman of SUDCM, briefed the audience about the mission of the Shree Umiya Dham. He believes that religious harmony in the name of Umiya Mataji will bring the community together, provide a forum for religious worship and celebration, social as well as cultural development, and most importantly bringing all generations together in the region.

He also stressed that the upcoming Shree Umiya Dham project will start with Umiya Mataji Mandir, a large community hall that expands down the road to build a sports complex, and retirement home - all of which should

Women devotees of Umiya Mata

Mataji Palakhi, Umiya Mataji Rath Shobha Yatra, Mahapuja and Aarti.

The event started with the display of Jyoti Rath in the South Hall.

The Emcees for the event were Dr Heena Patel & Narendra Patel.

serve the needs of communities for decades to come. Ha also announced that entire two days event was paid and planned by SUD-CM committee members.

Chhotalal Patel and Narendra Patel introduced Chief Guest

Umiya Mata SUDCOM volunteers and office bearers

Shree Anilbhai Patel, MP and former minister of State of Gujarat, India and gave wonderful speech about Patel's history and accomplishment as community.

Jatin and Andy Patel provided details of the Uchamani for Jyoti Rath and Mataji Palakhi. Most Uchamani items settled over $50,000 pledges while the audience cheered and chanted with "Shree Umiya Mataji ki Jai." Shastriji played a pivotal role for the Uchamani and encouraged members to contribute towards the cause by registering for the different Uchamani categories.

On Sunday, August 30, the event started with fresh breakfast, including tea and freshly brewed Dunkin Donuts coffee till 10:30 am.

Followed by one of the main attractions of the colorful event was a Shobha Yatra (parade) of Umiya Mataji Rath and Mataji Palakhi with all the available dignitaries, sponsors, families of SUDCM

trustees, super donors and members led by DJ Arun and devotee team from Umiya Mataji Temple, Macon, GA. With slogan "Bol Shree Umiya, Jai Jai Umiya" by the crowd, Jyoti Rath and Palkhi were brought back to the expo center and displayed for the public.

Mahapuja of the Jyoti Rath was performed by Chhotalal Patel,

special recognition award.

Awardees were Shree Umiya Mataji Temple, Macon, GA; Edison, NJ and Boston, MA, SUDCM Working Team: Chhotalal Patel (Chairman), AP Patel, Ashvin (Andy) Patel, Brijesh Patel, Dashrath (DV) Patel, Devendra Patel, Dharmisth Patel, Dilip Patel, Dipak Desai, Dipal

Shree Umiya Mataji committee members planned this 2-day event at their own expense. The event included video highlights of Jyoti Rath Vidai Ceremony in Unjha, Umiya Mataji Garba, Uchamani (Auction) related to Jyoti Rath and Mataji Palakhi Chairman of SUDCM, and super donors - JP Patel, Mithabhai and Jayantibhai Patel, and Lalbhai Patel along with many others. .

SUDCM decided to honor a few guests on this occasion with a

Patel, Dr. Hemant Patel, Jayantibhai (JP) Patel, Jatin Patel, Jitu Patel, Lalbhai Patel, Manoj Patel, Narendra Patel, Pankaj Patel, Revabhai Patel, Shailesh (Sam) Patel, and Vijay Patel.

Bhartiya senior citizens visit Smoky Mountain JAYANTI OZA

Seniors enjoying Smoky Mountain National Park view

CHICAGO: Bhartiya Senior Citizens of Chicago organized a fiveday tour of Smoky Mountain in Tennessee & Northside. Close to 115 members and guests participated in this tour in two buses.

The tour lasted five days - Sep-

tember 9 to 13. BSC President Haribhai Patel and his executive committee members volunteered help for food and organization and other arrangement through out the tour.

Cont’d on page 24

Seniors group enjoying Sky Lift (Ropeway Ride) top of the Smoky Mountain

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India Post 23

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Enthralling Kabbadi & Volleyball contests

The PSC officials with competing Kabbadi and Volleyball teams Asian Media USA

CHICAGO: Punjabi sports lovers from the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin and Ohio turned out in huge numbers to enjoy Kabaddi and Volleyball Tournaments followed by a vibrant cultural program at Elk Grove

nized by Punjab Sports & Cultural Club In the Kabaddi Cup Tournament, there were three Teams from India, USA, and Canada. In the final match, USA Kabaddi Team defeated the Indian Team by scoring 38 points against 19 and won the first prize. The first prize of-

Kabbadi game in progress

Village, Forest Preserve grounds in Chicago. The event was orga-

fered was $13,000 while the second prize was of $11,000.

Volleyball game in progress

In the Volleyball Tournament, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Sports Club won the first prize of $1500 and Glenview Spykar, the second prize of $1100.

Raja Krishan Murti, the candidate for US Congress, in his address, appreciated the efforts of the Punjab Sports & Cultural Club in promoting love for sports among the people of Punjab. He urged the young generation to give up their sedentary lifestyle.

He called upon them to take active interest in their physical fitness and eat healthy food.

OP Meena, Indian Consul in Chicago, said that love for sports among people of Punjab should be a source of inspiration to their counterparts from other parts of India. "This would go a long way in enriching the culture of physical fitness and enabling people to lead a happy life", he added.

In the evening, the popular singers, Harbhajan Mann and Gursewak Mann, entertained the audience for more than two hours

with their hit Punjabi folk songs.

The people thoroughly enjoyed the cultural program and many of them, especially youngsters, were seen dancing energetically to the melodious tunes.

Typical Punjabi food, coupled

with hot tea, was served throughout the day to the spectators, free of cost. The weather, which was highly pleasant, was instrumental not only in attracting people but also in retaining them throughout the tournament.

Peace & harmony concert at Gandhi statue OM PRAKASH KAMARIA

CHICAGO: Gandhi Memorial Trust and the Consulate General of India has planned a peace and harmony concert on Sunday, October 4 from 11am to 12:30 pm, to celebrate the 10th anniversary of installation of Gandhi statue in the Heritage Park, Skokie, a northside suburb of Chicago Ten years ago, a helicopter hovered over a gathering of 1,500 rejoicing people on the McCormick Blvd. in Skokie and showered rose petals on the inauguration of Gandhi memorial.

Since then, members of the Indian community have been regularly celebrating Gandhi Jayanti at the memorial in Skokie.

This year, to offer respect to Gandhiji and remember his message of peace, Trustees of Gandhi memorial Trust and Consulate General of India have decided to host an event underlying the basic tenets of Mahatma's teaching - peace and harmony. Members of the community at large are invited to join in the celebrations.

The statue is located on McCormick Boulevard between Dempster and Church Street in

Skokie.

In order to facilitate smooth sailing of the day, McCormick Blb between Demmpster and Church Street will be closed from 10 am to 2 pm. Entrance for parking is from

Gandhiji statue in Skokie

the Church Street only to Mcdaniel Ave at Jeh Elementary School.

Those with Handicapped License plates will be allowed to park on McCormick Blvd close to Gandhi Statue. These cars will enter from Church Street only into Mccormick Blvd.

24 India Post

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September 25, 2015

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Health Fair at Midwest Swaminarayan Temple JAYANTI OZA

A patient being tested for BP by a medical professional at a previous Health Fair

Itasca Swaminarayan temple

CHICAGO: A free Health Fair has been arranged at Midwest Swami Narayan Temple in Itasca, a northwest suburb of Chicago, on Sunday, October 11 between 8:15 am and 1 pm.

The Health Fair is one of the temple's regular annual programs.

Along with Midwest Swaminarayan Temple, other institutions including Lohana Association of Greater Chicago (LAGC), Gujarati Samaj of Chicago (GSC) and Kadva Patidar Samaj of Chicago (KPS) are co-sponsoring this event. This is the 37th Health Fair primarily organized by Jayantibhai Thakkar in Chicago land.

The fair is open to all in need of medical checkup and health related problems. Pre-registration is not required. Registration will start

at the temple at 8 am and close at 11 am. Everyone is requested to register. All testing will be done by 1 pm The checkup will include testing of Blood Pressure, Blood Testing, Blood Sugar, EKG, Urine analysis, Eye Screening, Bone Density tests, and ENT exam, Chiropractic Consultation, Physical Therapy, Dental Examination, Hearing Test, Diabetic education program and Physical Examination. Information about social services and benefits will also be provided.

This time 400 free flu shot will be given. The people who have Medicare should bring their Medicare card so that people who do not have Medicare will get free flu shots. Organizers have urged intending participants to bring the list of medicines that they are taking, so the doctor can review it and advise properly on medication.

Over 25 volunteer doctors and 85 health care professionals will provide their services for the event.

Patients requiring blood testing are requested to observe fasting for 12 hours before the test. Please do not take food or drinks after 8:00 pm from the previous night (Saturday night).

Bhartiya senior citizens visit Smoky Mountain Cont’d from page 22

The cooking van was specially arranged ahead to prepare Indian food throughout the tour.

Members of BSC enjoyed fresh cooked Indian food with morning tea-breakfast, lunch and dinner all 5 days.

On September 10, the senior citizens visited Great Smoky Mountain National Park in Tennessee and North Carolina.

They enjoyed the scenery of great natural beauty. On September 11, the tour members visited America's largest underground lake. The seniors had an amazing experience to see huge caverns; large enough to hold a two story building!

They saw colorful rock formations and a waterfall. The members took a guided boat trip across America's largest underground lake - almost three football fields long! The members visited the 1120 feet underground Ruby Falls in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It is America's tallest and deepest underground waterfall. The most spectacular views in Chattanooga are at Ruby

Falls. The amazing views of the Tennessee River flow and the surrounding mountain, ancient cave formations on the Ruby falls cave

View from Ruby Falls

were mind boggling. They saw The Magic Beyond Belief show by Darren Romeo in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. On September 12 the seniors enjoyed the four-hour Smoky Mountain Rail Road train ride.

September 25, 2015

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India Post 25

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A musical tribute to the Khans of Bollywood

From left sitting: Jay, Vikas, Rajeshvar, Nisha, Puja, Sunny, Pooja, Rohit, Virender, Ravi & Geetesh. Standing Organizers Dahya Mistry & Peter Sahjani India Post News Service

FREMONT, CA: Peter Sahjani, and Dahya Mistry the Star Entertainment of Bay Area, LLC team

on October 16.

The program will start at 8:00 pm sharp starting with the musical tribute to Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Amir Khan and Saif

Organizer Peter Sahjani (right) with singers Vikas Singh, Puja Purandare and Geetesh Iyer

brings you the live band musical tribute to Bollywood greatest Khans "My Name is Khans" at India Community Center Milpitas

Ali Khan along with special tribute to Feroz Khan and Yusuf Khan (known as Dilip Kumar).

Cont’d on page 26

Melody maker band Rohit Singh, singers Puja Purandare & Vikas Singh & melody maker band Rajeshvar Singh

26 India Post

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September 25, 2015

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Power of Divine Love makes God forget about his Godliness SWAMI NIKHILANAND

I

n the previous article, it was explained that Bhagwan Shree Krishna is bound by the love of His devotees such that He naturally loves them in the same way they love Him. The example was given of Shree Krishna playfully eating lunch with the Gwalbals in much the same way any group of young friends would. The question was posed as to whether Shree Krishna is just "play acting" when He is interacting with His friends? After all, He is God, so why would He feel the need to play or have fun?

This is a very important ques-

aspect of swaroop shakti is called samvit shakti (the power of knowledge through which God is omniscient). The anand aspect of swaroop shakti is called ahladini shakti (the power of bliss through which God is ever blissful, and beyond all forms of suffering).

Among the three, ahladini shakti is supreme (taasvaa hladini vareeyasee [Radhikopnishad]).

God reciprocates according to the sentiments of His devotees When God is all-powerful, allknowing, and ever blissful, what reason could He have for befriend-

When God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and ever blissful, what reason could He have for befriending a Gwalbal? There is no apparent reason. Hence, He must be pretending. But it is not so. It is actually real for both Shree Krishna and the Gwalbal. tion to answer, because if He is only play acting, then would any of the Gwalbals really want to be with Him? No, because you want to be with the one who truly loves you and who wants to be with you. If you realize that someone is just pretending to like you or be your friend, then your love for them would immediately turn to indifference.

Three main divine powers of Shree Krishna To understand this concept, we must have some deeper knowledge of Shree Krishna's Divine powers. Although He has unlimited powers, there are three main powers: swaroop shakti (also called yogmaya shakti) - this is His internal or personal power; jeev shakti - this comprises all the unlimited souls; and maya shakti the cosmic power which manifests the universe. Out of the three, swaroop shakti is supreme.

Swaroop shakti also has three facets. Why? Vedas tell us that Shree Krishna is sat-chit-anand (tamekam Govindam sacchidanand vigraham [Gopal Poorv Tapniyopnishad]). Sat means that He is a fact, and that He exists eternally. Chit means that He is alive, sentient, and has a Divine mind.

Anand means that He Himself is the form of bliss. Anand is supreme among the three qualities, and contains the other two.

Because of these three inherent Divine qualities, His personal power - swaroop shakti - has three aspects. The sat aspect of swaroop shakti is called sandhini shakti (the almighty power through which God is all-powerful and omnipresent). The chit

ing a Gwalbal? There is no apparent reason. Hence, He must be pretending. But it is not so. It is actually real for both Shree Krishna and the Gwalbal. How is it possible? The ahladini shakti (the supreme aspect of the personal power, swaroop shakti) has a quintessence - it is called prema shakti, the power of Divine love.

It is also called prema bhakti, the Divine power of devotion.

This power is the absolute supreme power of the Divine world.

It is so great that it has the power to make God forget His Godliness, and to cause the devotee to forget his own insignificance before God. It is due to this power of

science, then His behavior is serious and dignified, which restricts His interaction with His devotees (sandhini shakti and samvit shakti are revealed, but prema shakti is unmanifested). But when the power of Divine love is fully manifested, the almightiness and Godliness is submerged, and He becomes playful and loving (when prema shakti is outwardly revealed, then sandhini shakti and samvit shakti merge into it).

Due to this effect, Shree Krishna and the devotee forget their respective statuses as God and devotee, and just interact according to the relationship that was initiated by the loving feelings of the devotee (according to dasya, sakhya, vatsalya or madhurya bhav, as described in the previous article).

Prema shakti reveals the sweetest Divine pastimes One time Shree Krishna got caught eating soil, and Mother Yashoda tied up young Kanhaiya to the ukhal and was holding a very thin stick to threaten Him so that He would not do it again. At that time, He was trembling before Maiya and tears were streaming down His face, causing the kajal to run down His cheeks.

According to the theory explained above, Shree Krishna was not pretending to be afraid of His mother. He was in fact truly afraid, because in that state, He is only conscious of her love for Him, and the fact that He is her son. He is completely oblivious of the fact that He is supreme God and doesn't need to fear anyone.

Mother is also unaware of the

Shree Krishna was not pretending to be afraid of His mother. He was in fact truly afraid, because in that state, He is only conscious of her love for Him, and the fact that He is her son. He is completely oblivious of the fact that He is supreme God Divine love (or Divine bhakti) that both Shree Krishna and His devotee sincerely are friends, and are not just acting.

Even in the world, a person usually has a serious side and a loving side to his personality. Which one is displayed outwardly depends on the situation. When you are at work, school, or in any environment that demands formality, your behavior is restricted and you act with dignity and seriousness. When you are with your close friends and family in a private environment, you are less formal, more playful and loving.

Similarly, when God is revealing His almightiness and omni-

fact that He is God, otherwise, how could she dare to do such a thing.

The power of Divine love has made it possible for this amazing Divine leela to happen, and in doing so reveals the true sweetness of Krishna's Divine pastimes, which could never be revealed if He were only established in His almightiness and omniscience.

It is the same when He cries to get into Maiya's lap - He truly desires for her to pick Him up and cuddle Him. When He plays with His friends, He sincerely enjoys their company and the games they play together. When the Gopis get Him to dance for a little bit of buttermilk, He truly wants to please them and

get to drink the chach. So we see that in these heart-enticing leelas of Shree Krishna, He is never pretending - He truly loves the devotee in the same way they love Him. Continuing with the 11th shlok of chapter 4, Shree Krishna tells that all people worship Him, no matter what path they follow or style of devotion they adopt - and He comes to them in whichever form they choose. This important statement will be explored in the next article.

Disciple of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj S w a m i Nikhilanand Ji is a Canadian born Hindu spiritual leader based in Austin, Texas. He is a sanyasi disciple and pracharak of Jagadguru Shree Kripaluji Maharaj.

Attracted to the teachings of Hinduism from a young age, Swamiji eventually let his deep spiritual longing lead him to India, where he was most fortunate to come under the guidance of Shree Kripaluji Maharaj. Thereafter, living in the ashrams of JKP, he extensively studied Hindi, the philosophy of the prime Sanskrit scriptures (Vedas, Darshan

Shastras, Gita, Bhagwatam), and practiced meditation in the tradition of raganuga bhakti. In 2003, he was given sanyas. Now, with the blessings of his Guruji, he offers satsang programs throughout America, engaging audiences with his clear explanations of Hindu philosophy coupled with inspired chanting of Sanskrit mantras and

Swami Nikhilanand

shlokas and charming nam sankirtan. His informative and compelling speeches provide practical insight into how to adopt the teachings of Sanatan Dharm into our daily lives, and inspire us to awaken our inner spiritual potential.

To stay in touch with Swami Nikhilanand Ji, like his Facebook page at https:// w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / SwamiNikhilanand or follow him on twitter at https://twitter.com/ Swami_Nikhil.

A musical tribute to the Khans of Bollywood Cont’d from page 25

There will be live singing by versatile Bay area singers Vikas Singh, Indian Idol 5 participant and also voice of Tamil Nadu Geetesh Iyer, famous Melodious singer Anuja Surlaker, SRGM fame Puja Purandare, popular Priya Gandhi, and teen aged guest singer from Boston Akila Narayanan.

The live band team of Melody Maker will be headed by Rajeshvar Singh and Rohit Singh.

The Professional dances will be performed by Bay Area versatile & recognized artist Elena Elsoukovalong with Natika of Natika Dance.

The Lead Emcee of the evening will be popular Sunny Moza supported by Event coordinator Nisha Gill.

The event tickets includes

mouthwatering lavish dinner which will be provided by Park Balluchi of Mountain View along the Veg & Non-Veg appetizers.

The 'No-Host' bar service will be provided by Park Balluchi The Grand Sponsor of the event is Flavio Amral of RE/Max while the Platinum Sponsor is Park Balluchi, and the Gold sponsor is Pamila Sahu of Eve DĂŠcor.

Other sponsors are Anita Ramchandani, the Hall of Fame realtor, along with Ray Walia & Kay Kaur.

Parts of the proceeds will go to Nepal Relief Fund.

The event Media Partners are US Urdu News, India Post and IND TV USA with event photographer Kumar Joshi. The doors will open at 7 pm. This will be an unforgettable live band musical evening with Bollywood professional dances, dinner and DJ.

Horoscope

September 25, 2015

India Post

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Sept 25th - Oct 1st 2015

Y

ou will be investing big time in a project. Rewards will be huge and quick. You will have several other reasons to celebrate as most of your plans will go through. Do not feel disheartened if you don't get the property. You will be invited to a big social event.

You may temporarily develop taste for hot and spicy food.

S

torm will be over and things will calm down at work. You may be able to dispose off a property chewing your savings for long time and even get little money back. Money wise you will stay comfortable and make final payment on a big bill. Have little patience with spouse who will be more emotional this week.

I

O

verseas trip will take final shape. You will be entertaining some important people at your place this week. Things will keep improving at work place.

Boss will listen to your request but may not have any answer right away. Keep an eye on family members charging heavily on cards.

Do not take any chance with changing weather.

P

eople creating disturbance will not bother you any more. You will be selected among number of others to do the job. Planets will bring confidence back and you will start working on a short vacation with children. Your search for like minded people who can help you with your plans will continue. Bank balance will keep growing.

F

ew courageous actions on your part will get the jobs done and will take you closer to big deals. You may be travelling to a warm area for business purpose. You may also need to sign few legal documents this week.

You may make some changes or clean up your home properly. You will be on the move most of the time this week.

M

ars will bring energy and confidence back.

You will enforce your plans with full thrust. You will continue to enjoy the company of a new friend. You have very good chances of making money through stocks or even lottery this week.

Boss will take serious notes and consider your proposal.

You will also visit an old friend.

t will be better to hold on to what you have in the bank and not to put it in any risky scheme. You will start keeping a tab on expenses made by other family members. Some of you will very impulsive and look for a change in career. An old friend will give some useful leads. Spouse will prepare some delicious food.

B

oney could go on buying some fine item for the home or even a car. There will be some interesting developments in career and soon you could be moving to next level. People self employed will get more business this week. Some good friends who were out of touch will call again. You will make big contribution towards charity.

M

ou will feel relieved after paying off few debts.

Next several months looks very good for all financial matters. You may at the same time dispose off money making stocks and pocket the profit. Changes you have been waiting for at work will start taking place and you will have a discussion with boss about new assignment.

Y

n overseas trip is in the air. You will be making an important presentation this week and patiently wait for the reply.Financial juggling and cutting corners will help in long term. You will help spouse in clean up things piling dirt for long.

Just do not take chance with weather and read all contracts twice.

A

oney wise it looks like a very promi s i n g week. Entrance of Mars in house of luck will resolve many financial issues and you will be comfortable from now and on for next several months. Knowledge acquired recently will come handy. You will be invited to a big celebration or party. You will start eating more healthy food.

e polite with spouse or people you are involved with. Boss may surprise you with the news. Some of you will be going on an important trip this week.

People will take undue advantage of your generosity if you are not careful.

Check you have been waiting for will come in mail.

You will sign an important contract this week.

M

27

India Post 29

September 25, 2015 www.indiapost.com

TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Tu Chahiye : Bajrangi Bhaijaan 2 Baaton Ko Teri: All Is Well 3 Bhar Do Jholi Meri : Bajrangi Bhaijaan 4 Main Hoon Hero Tera: Hero 30 India Post

www.indiapost.com

September 25, 2015

5 Afghan Jalebi : Phantom 6 Zindagi Kuch Toh Bata :

D

eepika Padukone feels her upcoming film "Bajirao Mastani" was more draining than "Ram Leela".

In Sanjay Leela Bhansali's "Bajirao Mastani", Deepika plays the role of Mastani.

"It has been very difficult. It has been the toughest film of my career. When we did 'Ram Leela' it was emotionally and physically draining film, but now...'Ram Leela' feels easy and effortless in comparison to "Bajirao Mastani"," the 29-yearold actress said.

The actress says she was inspired by the Mastani's qualities. "It was very inspiring (role).

I wish she was alive today, I wish I could meet her, see her, interact with her. I will be meeting her family soon," Deepika said.

Bajrangi Bhaijaan 7 Mere Humsafar : All Is Well 8 Yadaan Teriyaan : Hero 9 Chaar Shanivaar : All Is Well 10 Khoya Khoya : Hero

D

G

o to New York, and you'll see our Priyanka Chopra's face staring down from hoardings all over Times Square.

But if you think the desi girl has forgotten her desi fans, think again. Because while shoot for the series Quantico in Canada, Priyanka took time off to fly down to India. While here she shot Hindi promotional trailers for Quantico for Hindispeaking audiences.

Says a source, "Priynka took three days off from the shooting of Quantico in Canada to fly down to Mumbai to shoot a song and dance with Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone for Sanjay Bhansali's Bajirao Mastani. While in Mumbai she shot promos for Quantico in Hindi for her audience in India when the show airs here in October."

Apparently on the sets of the show and on social media, the actress had a special request from her fans who requested PC to have a promo of her show in Hindi. This idea was liked by the actress and Star, the channel premiering the show in India.

While in Mumbai she shot promos for Quantico in Hindi for her audience in India when the show airs here in October."

uring a promo tional event of ' B a j i r a o Mastani' in Pune, Ranveer Singh said that he can wait a lifetime for Deepika, his rumored girlfriend. "She is so beautiful that I would wait all my life for her," Ranveer said.

Ranveer and Deepika arrived at the venue very late due to bad weather and the media and the audience had to wait a long time for their favorite stars. When the duo arrived, Deepika

took the mike and apologized for the delay. Then Ranveer said they were sorry for the delay, but immediately cracked a joke: When you have to wait for a beautiful lady like Deepika, it is worth it and that he is ready to wait forever for Deepika.

When Deepika was asked whether she too would be willing to wait for a lifetime for him, Deepika says, "What? You have to ask him in what context he said that. Wait at a restaurant... or..."

Deepika says she has not seen any change in Ranveer as a person.

"He has the same energy and same enthusiasm, same protectiveness and same warmth."

However, she feels that as an actor Ranveer has grown a lot.

September 25, 2015

Bollywood

India Post 31

www.indiapost.com

S

he might have a large fan following, but actor Sonakshi Sinha says that she will never let this success go to her head.

The 28-year-old, who says that this grounded attitude stems from the way she's been brought up by her parents - actor Shatrughan Sinha and mother Poonam Sinha - adds that she takes success as well as failure in her stride.

"It comes from the way I have been brought up... and it's come from seeing so many people within the industry as well. I've always wanted to be like my father. He is the most level-headed person I know. I have seen people who have been ruined by success more than failure, so it's very important to treat both in the same way," says Sona, whose last two films - Action Jackson (2014) and Tevar - did not do well at the box office.

Known for punctuality, Sonakshi says that while she likes to think that she maintains a nice balance between her work and personal life, she is not very good at it. "I am a hopeless workaholic," she confesses.

T

hough some of his films have flopped, but there is no denying the fact that Ranbir Kapoor is still among the A-listers in Bollywood. His girlfriend and co-actor in Anurag Basu's Jagga Jasoos says that Kapoor is "dedicated, passionate and focused" and he is sure to bounce back. "His movies not doing well is a sad thing. But he gives his heart and soul to his films. I know it pains him deeply that he is not able to live up to the expectations and satisfy his audience," Katrina says. "He loves his audience ... he wants people to love his films... he wants that - acceptance - from the audience. So all this is hurtful to him," she adds.

Ranbir's last few films Besharam, Roy and Bombay Velvet - failed to grab eyeballs. But Katrina, 32, is certain that it is just a bad phase. "As an actor, I haven't seen anyone more passionate and focused about his work. It is just a matter of time. Every actor goes through ups and downs.

D

elhi Belly" star Imran Khan says sup porting actors always have significant role in all the films.

Asked about his experience of working with Gavin (CHubBy) Methalaka and other supporting actors of Nikhil Advani's directorial Katti Batti, Imran said: "Supporting cast always has an important part in all the films. Even in 'Katti Batti', I loved them and have become good friends with all of them. They're excellent, that's why they've been cast."

Gavin, who likes to call himself 'CHubBy', essays the role of Imran's friend. Gavin said he

H

er entry in Bollywood was as a child actor in Karan Johar's "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" and later, she was seen in a glamorous role in "Student Of The Year". Now Sana Saeed plans to take a break from films to attend an acting workshop in Los Angeles. It is something that she had planned to do even before featuring in a supporting role in the 2012 movie, which marked the launch of actors Varun Dhawan, Sidharth Malhotra and Alia Bhatt in Bollywood.

"I'm actually trying to take a break and go to Los Angeles. I am applying to a film academy in Los Angeles to do an acting workshop there," Sana said when asked about her future Bollywood projects. "That's the thing that I had in my mind before I did 'Student Of The Year'. When I did that film, I applied for the course. I also got selected and had tickets in my hand but five days before leaving for the New York Film Academy (the Los Angeles campus), I thought that if there is a chance of doing acting here already, so why not?

"This was in my mind for four years. Now, here's the chance and I can't wait for it," added the actress, who played daughter to Shah Rukh Khan in "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" in 1998.

was called "multiple times for an audition by the production house".

"I ignored it several times as I was back home for holidays and wanted to make the most of it.

But there is a limit to how many times one can ignore." "Many calls later, I found myself sitting in Nikhil sir's production house. They wanted to meet me. After a brief narration they wanted to know if I was interested and I accepted. And this is how I became a part of one of the most awaited films of this year," he says.

Realty Tidbits

NBCC to launch e-commerce portal NEW DELHI: NBCC will soon launch an e-commerce enabled portal to cater to real estate requirements of various government agencies, departments, public financial institutions and law enforcement agencies as part of Digital India program.

We are working on a unique digital footprint and it will be launched shortly, said National Buildings Construction Corporation Ltd (NBCC) CMD AK Mittal.

NBCC portal will be a first G-2G (government to government) portal to assist the government agencies in gainful deployment of properties under their control.

Mittal said the portal shall enable online booking and payments for properties, much the same way as we book cinema tickets online.

According to the plan, all correspondence and financial details relating to any transaction shall be preserved online for effective protection of real estate consumers' rights.

Apart from facilitating routine transactions such as buying and renting of flats, shops and offices, the portal shall facilitate meeting of like-minded parties for entering into viable joint-ventures and other market oriented arrangements in workshops, resorts and factories. -PTI

DDA develops prototype for mobile app

NEW DELHI: The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has developed a prototype for a new mobile application that would allow applicants to send feedback to the housing authority on construction quality and maintenance services of the flats.

The prototype application has already been uploaded at the URL -www.dda.org.in/suggfeed.

At present the prototype feedback form has four parameters external finishing of block/facade; finishing of walls; flooring of toilets/bathrooms and flooring of rooms.

The prototype is part of one of the four mobile applications that the DDA is planning to launch soon to facilitate the public.

"The DDA through public suggestions is requesting to know as to whether more parameters should be included or any changes in the nomenclature are required in the parameters," a senior DDA official said.

Seeking to bring in greater transparency and ease in consumer grievance redressal, DDA is working on the four new mobile applications. -PTI

Real Estate 32 India Post

www.indiapost.com

September 25, 2015

California home prices, sales cool in August SAN DIEGO: California's summer housing rally cooled in August, a research firm said, as tight supplies kept a lid on sales and more buyers found prices out of reach.

The median sales price for new and existing houses and condominiums was $409,000, down 1.4 percent from a 7 1/2-year high of $415,000 in July but up 4.3 percent from $392,000 in August 2014, according to CoreLogic Inc. It was the 42nd straight month of annual price gains.

Details on Page 34

William Lyon's ‘Residence Three’ ideal for family living India Post News Service

DUBLIN, CA: Offering a limited edition of 36 brand new residences, Terrace Ridge by William Lyon Homes offers three distinctive luxury designs in a desirable Dublin location. Popular floorplan choices include Residence Three, the neighborhood's largest design that includes approximately 3,127 square feet of living space, five bedrooms with an elegant master suite, private downstairs bedroom and spacious secondary bedrooms.

Exceptionally designed for family living, the Residence Three features a gourmet kitchen with large island that seamlessly flows into a casual dining room, spacious great room and a covered patio for outdoor dining and entertaining.

This popular plan also boasts an optional loft in lieu of the fourth bedroom/fourth bath. To learn more, visit the sales gallery or join the interest list at www.LyonTerraceRidge.com.

"The Residence Three is the ideal choice for buyers looking for a versatile, new luxury home in a stunning terraced Dublin setting," said Kathy Floyd, Director of Sales for William Lyon Homes. "Buyers should visit the sales gallery to tour this exceptional design and learn more about new home op-

portunities, including view-oriented locations currently released for sale at Terrace Ridge."

The new homes at Terrace Ridge range from approximately 2,829 to 3,127 square feet, with four to five bedrooms, four to five baths and two-car garages. Well-ap-

land. In Pleasanton, the Altamont Corridor Express 'ACE' Train is onhand for trips to Fremont, San Jose and Santa Clara.

Abundant retail and dining opportunities are also close by, including the new Persimmon Place Shopping Center that offers

pointed interiors showcase chefinspired kitchens, large great rooms and versatile lofts in select plans. Prices start from the $1.2 millions.

Conveniently located in Dublin, residents enjoy easy access to Tri-Valley's business employers, shops and leisure destinations. Nearby is I-680 and I-580, as well as a BART station for commutes to San Francisco and Oak-

Nordstrom Rack, Whole Foods, Home Goods and more, and Hacienda Crossings Shopping Center with Regal Cinemas and IMAX. Recreational opportunities feature Mount Diablo State Park, Emerald Glen Park, Fallon Sports Park, Dougherty Hills Dog Park and Dublin Ranch Golf Course. Parents enjoy inclusion in the well-regarded Dublin school district and nearby private schools.

It matters who your builder is and William Lyon Homes is a company built upon a legacy of pride and integrity. A team of visionaries who are passionate about homebuilding and committed to providing a high quality homebuying and homeownership experience, William Lyon Homes has earned a solid track record for outstanding construction and customer service since 1956. The company continues to expand its well-respected brand beyond California, Arizona and Nevada and into other market areas across the Western region with the acquisition of Polygon Northwest Homes, its newest division in Washington and Oregon, and its Village Homes division in Colorado. William Lyon Homes' shares are publicly traded on NYSE under the symbol WLH. For updated information and to learn more, visit www.lyonhomes.com.

To visit Terrace Ridge, travel I580, exit Tassajara Road and proceed north. Turn right on Silvera Ranch Drive, right on Terrace Ridge Court to enter the neighborhood, then left on Highpointe Court. The Sales Gallery is located on the left and is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call 925.551.0416, or visit www.LyonTerraceRidge.com.

Student housing ban move in Providence PROVIDENCE, R.I.: Each fall, thousands of students flock to the city's many colleges, filling its large old homes and, sometimes, holding loud parties. Now a proposal to keep too many of those students from living together has drawn the ire of civil liberties advocates.

Providence officials are considering a zoning law that would limit the expansion of student housing in the city, the state's capital, including in neighborhoods near Providence College, a private Roman Catholic university, and Rhode Island College, a public institution. Specifically, the proposed law would prohibit

more than three college students from living in a single-family home.

Democratic Councilwoman JoAnn Ryan, who represents and lives in the Elmhurst neighbor-

A wild party Sept. 5, part of an annual tradition at Providence College in which students celebrate the new academic year, resulted in dozens of arrests. The

The state chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union is urging the city to reject the ordinance, saying it discriminates against students and tarnishes the city's reputation as a host to colleges. hood near Providence College, said she introduced the legislation at the request of neighbors ``completely and totally frustrated with the partying.''

celebration has grown over the years to include students from the city's other schools, which include the Ivy League's Brown University and the prestigious Rhode

Island School of Design.

The state chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union is urging the city to reject the ordinance, saying it discriminates against students and tarnishes the city's reputation as a host to colleges. ``It inappropriately singles out students for disparate treatment and will make it much harder for students to find appropriate housing,'' said Steven Brown, the chapter's executive director.

Besides the partying, Ryan said, residents worry landlords are buying all the single-family homes in her area to rent them to Cont’d on page 33 students.

Real Estate Post

September 25, 2015

India Post 33

www.indiapost.com

Naidu for active private participation in housing NEW DELHI: Inviting investments from private players in housing sector, government has said they can play a key role in achieving the goal of 'housing for all' by 2022.

This is the time when private players should come forward and play an active role in providing decent housing for the needy people at an affordable cost, Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation Minister M Venkaiah Naidu said at an event organized

by Assocham here.

Currently, there is a shortage of 18.78 million houses and close to 2.34 million homes need to be constructed every year during the next eight years to address the issue.

Investment in the sector will not only help expand the existing stock of housing units but also improve the working and living conditions of people, Naidu said.

Assuring the slum dwellers, he said, "Either houses will be constructed at the same place or you will be provided housing at other place. Before that no one will be ousted from their existing houses."

Targeting the Opposition for blocking the Land Bill in the Rajya Sabha, he said land is crucial for development.

"Houses, airports, railway stations or other infrastructure can-

not be constructed on air. Land is a crucial and important compo-

M Venkaiah Naidu

nent for construction of affordable houses.

Without the availability of land how can you construct houses?" he asked.

"Our government is trying to amend the Land Bill 2013 because most of the states came forward and told Centre to amend the Bill as acquiring land is becoming an impossible task.

"But unfortunately some people are opposing it. Though they allowed acquiring of land for SEZ for commercial purpose, here they are opposing it. So you are opposing the development and not the government," he added.

Referring to the Real Estate (Development and Regulation) Bill, Naidu said "it is for regulation and not for strangulation".

Student housing ban move in Providence Cont’d from page 32

``Those houses are getting snatched up, and they're creating mini-dormitories,'' she said.

But landlords say they've improved the neighborhood by remodeling once-vacant homes, leading to increased property values. ``Investors who have put over $2 million in rehab in that neighborhood have now been vilified and targeted, along with the students,'' said attorney Robert D'Amico, who owns several rental properties in Elmhurst.

D'Amico, who primarily rents to students, said the ordinance doesn't make sense. ``There is no direct correlation between the students living in single-family homes and the number of students roaming around the area and having red-cup parties,'' he said.

This isn't the first time a city has tried to curb student partying through housing laws.

Winona, Minnesota, home to Winona State University and Saint Mary's University of Minnesota,

limits housing rentals to reduce large concentrations of students. Several homeowners and a nonprofit law firm sued; the state Supreme Court decided in August the case was no longer relevant because the plaintiffs had lost their homes or moved.

It's unclear how the ban in Providence would be enforced, but some City Council members have suggested landlords who rent to students would need licenses and their student homes would be subject to annual inspections. Landlords who violate the ordinance could be fined.

Existing ordinances in Providence and Narragansett, home to a campus of the University of Rhode Island, allow police to put orange stickers on party houses, alerting landlords and tenants they'll be fined if police return because of disturbances.

The ordinance wouldn't affect existing leases. It passed an initial vote on Sept. 4 and must pass a second vote before heading to the office of Democratic Mayor Jorge Elorza, who hasn't said whether he'll sign it. -AP

Hitting out at the fly-by-night operators, he said, "The genuine real estate players need not worry. Because there are some black sheep in the trade who have brought the name into the industry, there is a requirement of the Bill."

The Bill was referred to a select committee of Parliament and the committee has submitted its recommendations for certain changes in the Bill provisions. It is expected to

be taken up for consideration in the next session of Parliament.

Naidu said the legislation will bring accountability and transparency in the sector. "It will provide a mechanism for protecting consumer interest and speedy adjudication of disputes. This will promote professionalism, standardization and orderly growth of real estate sector and boost private investment in housing sector."

Referring to Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna, he said several inno-

vative steps have been taken to provide affordable housing to poor people of urban areas and mentioned interest subsidy for low income group people and slum redevelopment plan under the housing mission of the government.

Naidu also highlighted relaxation of FDI norms in housing sector such as reducing the minimum investment from 10 million USD to 5 million USD and minimum built up area for a project from 5 lakh sq meter to 2 lakh sq meter.-PTI

Real Estate Post

34 India Post

September 25, 2015

www.indiapost.com

California home prices, sales cool in August SAN DIEGO: California's summer housing rally cooled in August, a research firm said, as tight supplies kept a lid on sales and more buyers found prices out of reach.

The median sales price for new and existing houses and condominiums was $409,000, down 1.4

percent from a 7 1/2-year high of $415,000 in July but up 4.3 percent from $392,000 in August 2014, according to CoreLogic Inc. It was the 42nd straight month of annual price gains.

There were an estimated 41,623 homes sold in the state, up 8.8 percent from 38,242 homes a year earlier, CoreLogic said.

The numbers represent a modest slowdown from early summer, when prices surged and sales were unusually robust. Sales typically

increase between July and August but fell 10 percent this year. ``I hate to put too much emphasis on a month-to-month change, but what stood out most was the sales slowdown from July to August,'' said CoreLogic analyst Andrew LePage. ``It's most likely worsening affordability and tight

inventory.''

The state had a 3.6-month supply of unsold single-family homes in August, according to the California Association of Realtors, well below what is considered a normal supply of five to seven months. In the San Francisco Bay Area, there was only a 2.3-month supply of unsold homes.

David Silver-Westrick, operating partner of Keller Williams OC Coastal Realty in southern Orange County, said San Clemente, a city

of about 65,000 people, has about 280 homes on the market, up from about 160 two years ago but still well below a normal market of about 600 homes.

Silver-Westrick said about onethird of homes for sale in San Clemente are listed above $1 million but less than one-third of potential buyers qualify for loans at that level.

Some viewed the slowdown as a sign of relative normalcy, free from bubble and burst. Mark Goldman, a real estate lecturer at San Diego State University, said the market was supported by a growing sense of job security among consumers and an economy that is ``chugging along.'' ``My view of what's happening now is slow, steady and sustainable,'' Goldman said.

In Southern California, the median sales price was $438,000 in August, unchanged from July and up 4.3 percent from $420,000 in August 2014, according to CoreLogic. Sales in the six-county region totaled 21,352 homes, up 8 percent from 19,765 homes a year earlier.

In the San Francisco Bay Area, the median sales price was $650,000, down 1.3 percent from $658,500 in July but up 6.2 percent from $612,000 in August 2014.

Sales in the nine-county region totaled 8,062 homes, up 4.5 percent from 7,718 homes a year earlier. -AP

Sangam Lifespaces eyes Rs 6,000 crore revenue MUMBAI: Sangam Lifespaces, the realty arm of diversified Sangam Group, is eyeing nearly Rs 6,000 crore revenue in next five years and plans to invest around Rs 1,200 crore for expanding its portfolio over the period, a senior company official has said.

The company, which is currently operating in the megapolis with nearly one million sq ft under development, is planning to double its portfolio to over two million sq ft over the next five years.

"Despite a slowdown, we have set higher targets mainly on the back of the segments we have focused on - middle and upper middle income groups.

"There is a huge demand from these segments and we are confident of achieving Rs 6,000 crore

revenue in the next five years," Sangam Lifespaces Director Manun Thakur told.

He said the company will invest Rs 1,200 crore over the next five years to almost double its portfolio from the current one million sq

ft to over two million, which will be mainly by entering into joint development agreements (JDA).

"Currently, we have four projects in Mumbai with a portfolio size of Rs 2,000 crore. While

two are slum rehabilitation projects - one each in Andheri and the BKC, one is in Goregaon, which is joint development project, in the Prabhadevi project, we entered as an investor and then took over the project from the developer. JDAs are a safer bet as compared to a green field development," Thakur said.

He added that one million sq ft projects are likely to be completed in next three years.

Thakur said the company will invest the funds for acquiring land at some locations and also for partnering with land-owners for joint development.

Apart from Mumbai, Sangam is also exploring Rajasthan and Goa for spreading its presence, he added.-PTI

DLF's Rs 1,100-crore shopping mall in Noida NEW DELHI: Realty major DLF says its shopping mall in Noida, touted as one of the biggest in the country and built at an investment of Rs 1,100 crore, will be opened in November.

DLF is expecting Rs 200 crore rental income per year from this

mall, which has a leasable area of about 2 million sq ft.

"DLF Mall of India is going to open its doors for public with weeklong festivities in November 2015," the country's largest real estate firm said in a statement.

"The NCR-based mall is the largest retail project from DLF Group and would add a retail space of about 2 million sq ft to the current about 2.2 million sq ft portfolio," it added.

DLF has leased over 90 per cent of the area in this mall, said Sriram Khattar, CEO, Rental Business, DLF Ltd. The mall would have more than 450 retail units, seven-screen cinema hall, and the food court with about 1,000 seats.

The company has adopted minimum guarantee plus revenue share model for the benefit of tenants and operations of the mall.

It already has three operational malls in the national capital.

DLF's annual rental income from commercial properties, including offices and shopping malls, stood at Rs 2,400 crore in the last fiscal. -PTI

New buyer offers more for David Cassidy home FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.: A appraised at $1.9 million. new buyer has offered $2 million Cassidy's lawyer Susan Lasky for the Fort Lauderdale, Florida, says they were hoping to get more home owned by former teen idol for the home to pay off creditors.

David Cassidy, surpassing the Real estate agent Andrea $1.8 million bid made at a recent Harrington says her client withauction. drew his $1.8 million offer. She deLamar Fisher of Fisher Auction clined further comment.

Co. told the Sun Sentinel the new buyer stepped forward a week after four bids were placed on the 7,000-square-foot waterfront home.

The 65-year-old Cassidy filed a Chapter 11 bankruptcy case earlier 1970s heartthrob David Cassidy and his girlfriend this year. He Maura Rossi pose for a photo in his five-bedroom Florida mansion in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. bought the home in 2001 for $1.1 million. The five-bedA bankruptcy judge will be room, six-bathroom house was asked to approve the new offer. -AP

Bill seeks to clear titles of foreclosed homes BOSTON: The state Senate has approved a measure that supporters say will help clear up the titles of previously foreclosed homes in Massachusetts.

The legislation is in response to recent court rulings and would require lawsuits challenging the validity of foreclosure proceedings to be filed in three years.

Backers say it will help purchas-

ers of foreclosed homes as thirdparty buyers, but ran into problems selling or refinancing the properties years later because of uncertainty surrounding the titles.

Critics of the legislation argue it will unfairly limit the legal choices of those who believe they lost their homes to illegal foreclosure.

The bill now goes to the House.

-AP

September 25, 2015

India Post 35 www.indiapost.com

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MUMBAI: Bollywood actress Kajol will be attending the United Nations General Assembly and Global Citizen Festival in New York where she will be advocating the importance of a hygienic environment.

"Excited to announce I'll be at @UN General Assembly & #GlobalCitizen Festival next week supporting the #hygiene cause in the #GlobalGoals," Kajol tweeted.

The actress, who is married to actor Ajay Devgn, will be a part of the General Assembly and will also attend the musical fest on September 26 that stars Beyonce, Pearl Jam and Coldplay.

Global Citizen Festival, which marks the launch of ambitious set of global development goals, is a highlight of the annual gathering of world leaders at the United Nations.

Other names to be a part of the initiative will be Leonardo DiCaprio, Bono, Nobel Peace Prize winner Malala Yousafzai and Bill and Melinda Gates.

Other than Kajol, singer Sunidhi Chauhan will be taking the sound of Indian music to the foreign shores for a good cause.

Kajol, who is also an advocate for Lifebuoy's 'Help A Child Reach Five'

September 25, 2015

movement, participated in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) summit last year as well.

Saina's joy Ace shuttler Saina Nehwal might be upset with her early exit from the Japan Open, but the young athlete got a reason to rejoice as she met her favorite star recently.

Saina bumped into Kajol, apparently at an airport. The young girl was all smiles and excited as she met the Bollywood superstar, so much so that she did not miss the chance to capture the moment. An elated Saina, who was accompanied by her father, even shared the picture on twitter and posted, "Met actress Kajol mam I m a huge fan for her."

Meeting Shah Rukh Saina also wangled a meeting with Shah Rukh Khan via a request on Twitter. She met him on the sets of his upcoming film "Dilwale" in Hyderabad. Shah Rukh, with a badminton racquet in hand and a song on mind, obliged the Indian ace

Saina Nehwal with Shah Rukh

shuttler.

Shah Rukh took to Instagram and shared a picture with the badminton star, writing lyrics of the popular Mohammed Rafi-Asha Bhosle song, "Dhal Gaya Din Ho Gayi Sham" from the movie "Humjoli".

"Dhal gaya din (tuk). Ho gayi shaam (tuk)... Jaane doh jaana hai. Who all know this song from Humjoli? My tuk tuk moment with Saina."

After the meeting Saina tweeted, "Oh my GOD ??????????Shahrukh sir ur such a nice person very happy to meet u . U made my day thank u so much."

Global Citizen Festival, which marks the launch of ambitious set of global development goals, is a highlight of the annual gathering of world leaders at the United Nations.

Saina Nehwal with Kajol

September 25, 2015

India Post 37 www.indiapost.com

Asha Bhosle inspired restaurant in UK

F

ood lovers in Manchester, UK, will get to enjoy tradi tional Indian cuisines at a restaurant inspired and co-owned

by legendary singer Asha Bhosle which opened on Sept 18, according to reports.

The restaurant at the Peter Street displays portraits of Asha Bhosle and her family, along with beaded fringing inspired by her stage costumes and jewellery, Manchester Evening News reported.

The 82-year-old singer was among the guests at the VIP launch party held on Sept 17.

The restaurant wears a simple look with purple as accent color. It is decorated with booths clustered

along one wall and lighting hanging from the ceilings. It is housed in a 170-year-old building and cost two million pounds (USD 1.5 million) for its renovation. The bar on the first floor has been transformed into a big dining space.

"We have tried to develop a contemporary atmosphere but the building is around 170-yearsold, so we have tried to make sure we have r e stored it sympathetically," Sue Potter, managing director of the restaurant's parent company, was quoted as saying.

"We have used purple as an accent color but otherwise we have kept to a quite neutral palette. The ochre is quite an important part of our identity, refer-

encing the saffron in Indian cookery and the burnt orange colors you see in a lot of Indian art work," he added.

The menu is traditional Indian cuisine with many of the dishes has been named as a tribute to the singer's connections and career.

The restaurant will serve special curries like 'bharwan tandoori aloo', 'tandoori jhenga' and 'murg masala'. The menu also includes 'Hare baingnan ka bharta', a favorite of the singer's mother, and 'Rahul Dev Burman chingri chaap' (a tribute to her late husband).-PTI

First lady Michelle Obama announced the appointment. Mrs. Obama says Ghaffarian's life story is a reminder that the American Dream endures.

MUMBAI: Bollywood actresssinger Priyanka Chopra says Shabana Azmi, who has turned 65, is her inspiration in the showbiz world.

"Happy bday @AzmiShabana!

Shabana Azmi

Iranian new head florist of White House WASHINGTON: The White House has a new head florist.

She's an Iranian woman raised in California who has more than 25 years of experience in the flower industry.

Hedieh ``Roshan'' Ghaffarian will be on hand for next week's state dinner for China. She will join the White House full-time next month after she moves to Washington.

The White House says Ghaffarian immigrated to Los Al-

Shabana Azmi my favorite: Priyanka

tos, California, with her family as a child after the Iranian revolution.

In her twenties, she started a flower business in her parents' garage.

First lady Michelle Obama announced the appointment. Mrs. Obama says Ghaffarian's life story is a reminder that the American Dream endures.

Ghaffarian succeeds Laura Dowling, who resigned the head florist job earlier this year. -AP

My favorite... Always look up to you so much! Lots of love," Priyanka, who is currently in the US, posted on Twitter.

Shabana, the wife of noted lyricist Javed Akhtar, started her career with Shyam Benegal's directorial debut "Ankur" in 1974 and soon became one of the leading actresses of Parallel Cinema.

Her performances in films in a variety of genres have generally earned her praise and awards, which include a record of five wins of the National Film Award for best actress and several international honors.

Actress-producer Dia Happy

wrote, "Happy Birthday @AzmiShabana. You are awesome and I am grateful to have your humanity inspire me."

"Happy Bday @AzmiShabana You are always loved admired...

My absolutely fave actor!!," Huma Qureshi tweeted.

The "Masoom" actress was happy to see the response.

"Am overwhelmed by the love and affection of birthday greetings pouring in already.

Feel loved and respected.

Thanku all you are my strength."

In her more than four decade long career, Shabana has appeared in over 120 Hindi and Bengali films in both mainstream and independent cinema.

She will be seen next in Aishwarya Rai Bachchanstarrer "Jazbaa." -PTI

Priyanka Chopra

38 India Post

September 25, 2015 www.indiapost.com

Seattle South Asian Film Festival from Oct 15 India Post News Service

SEATTLE, WA: Tasveer is presenting the 10th annual Seattle South Asian Film Festival from October 15-25. SAFF 2015 includes 59 films from 9 countries, with dozens of directors, producers, and acting talent expected to attend the 12-day event.

SSAFF has grown to become the largest, longest, and most diverse South Asian film festival in the United States, presenting conversations about human rights, social justice, women's issues, immigration, and globalization engaged through the art of film from across the South Asian sub-continent. Films from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka will appear at SSAFF 2015.

Sri Lanka is in the spotlight at SSAFF 2015 with an exceptional program of dramas, documentaries, and shorts and the attendance of veteran Sri Lankan filmmaker and recipient of the 2014 Tasveer Emerald Award Prasanna

Vithanage. A retrospective of Vithanage's work will take place over the first weekend of the Festival and the filmmaker himself will appear at Q&As following each of the four films included in the ret-

in ways as diverse as the South Asian Diaspora itself, as varied as answers to the question, "What is Home?"

Opening Night kicks off the Festival on October 15 at AMC

rospective, at a symposium titled "Human Rights and the Politics of Filmmaking in South Asia," and at a reception to be held in his honor.

The theme for SSAFF 2015 is Coming Home, an evocative topic reflected among the selected films

Pacific Place in Seattle with the dramatic comedy For Here Or To Go? and special guests associated with the film. The humorous look at personal battles faced by immigrants living in America will be followed by a gala featuring VIP

A time for more woman producers: Sangeeta

S

angeeta Ahir of ManglMurti Films is a go-getter. Her last film Guddu Rangeela released in July and two months down the line, she is already out there rooting for her next venture - Calendar Girls. The film, directed by Madhur Bhandarkar, chronicles the story of five girls and their tryst with the exciting, but unpredictable world of glamour.

Sangeeta says, "I felt that the journey of these characters has an empowering message. It is tough to make it big in the glamour world.

There is often additional pressure from conservative parents who readily admire actresses but can't accept the same as their daughter's profession. There are so many girls who harbor the dream of making it big in Bollywood, but only a few are brave enough to fight the odds. I love the fact that it is very different from a quintessential Madhur Bhandarkar film. This one paints the portrait of a successful woman."

Sangeeta admits that Madhur's proficiency in realistic cinema was the cue for her to back this film.

She says, "Had it been any other filmmaker, I wouldn't have done it.

I trust his sensibilities."

She was always sure that a concept like Calendar Girls demanded fresh faces and hence was never wary of launching five debutantes.

"Three hundred girls auditioned

Sangeetha Ahir

for the five roles. Initially, I was concerned how they'll slip into such challenging parts. But, after months of workshops, the girls nailed it. On their first day of shoot, they were impressive and complemented each other beautifully," she adds.

The producer affirms that it is a good time for women in Bollywood and actresses like Kangana Ranaut and Priyanka Chopra are taking over the industry with their prowess. "I don't understand why more women don't try out production. Women are more inclined towards creative pursuits. They are passionate and patiently nurture their product, which makes them suitable for this role," she reasons.

Sangeeta enjoys her busy schedule and loves to juggle between home and her budding career. "My mantra is to give my all to whatever I do. I see career oriented women being negligent towards their children but I'm clear about my priorities. I love making my kids their favorite dishes. If you learn the art of balancing, life is beautiful," she asserts.

The newest feather in her cap is that she has signed directors Paresh Mokashi and Rohit Shetty.

"I am very excited about both projects. The film with Rohit is still in the scripting stage. I feel it is an achievement to be collaborating with him. I'm grateful that Bollywood has welcomed me with such warmth," says the proud producer.

guests, food, wine, music, and much more.

Pakistani-American comedian Fawzia Mirza will grace the Festival's Centerpiece Gala on October 22 at Seattle Asian Art Museum to present her short film The First Session and perform her one-woman play, "Me, My Mom, and Sharmila." Mirza is known for her web series "Kam Kardashian" and sketch comedy series "Brown Girl Problems" and was named to Indiewire's Top 10 Creatives of 2014.

SSAFF 2015 closes on October 25 at the Carco Theatre in Renton with a star-studded evening featuring The Spectacular Jihad Of Taz Rahim. Director Raghav Murali and actor Rahsaan Islam are expected to attend and the screening will be followed by a reception and announcement of the SSAFF 2015 audience and jury awards.

Local films featured at SSAFF 2015 include Drawing The Tiger

by Amy Benson and Scott Squire, Flying Kiss by Tarun Seth,

Threads by Cathy Stevulak, Songs Of The Bards Of BengalThe Bauls And Fakirs by Monalisa Dasgupta, and The Decision by Joydeep Das. Many of these projects are the first fruits of efforts by Tasveer and SSAFF to inspire, encourage, facilitate, and exhibit the efforts of the northwest South Asian filmmaking community that continues to grow each year.

Further highlights include a new documentary Among The Believers, a timely look into radical Islam in Pakistan and the conditions that led to its rise. Filmmakers Hemal Trivedi and Mo Naqvi are expected to attend the October 18 screening at SIFF Film Center. A double-feature presentation on partition includes A Thin Wall by director Mara Ahmad and Peace, Daal, And Partition by director Paisley Smith on October 25 at Carco Theatre in Renton. Both filmmakers are expected to attend.

A full schedule of screenings and special events is available online at www.tasveer.org.

'Calendar Girls' - brands for just 365 days BENGALURU: Ace Bollywood director Madhur Bhandarkar says his latest film 'Calendar Girls' is different from his earlier blockbuster 'Fashion'. "'Calendar Girls' is neither an extension nor similar to my earlier hit 'Fashion' as problems faced by these girls are different from models, whose brand value stays longer than the calendar girls," he told PTI. Fashion was the story of a model and her downfall and success. The director was here to promote the film.

Produced by him and Sangeeta Ahir, it features newcomers Akanksha Puri, Avani Modi, Kyra Dutt and Ruhi Singh, among others.

"What intrigued me about 'Calendar Girls' is that they are brands for just 365 days. That was interesting and I thought why shouldn't a film be made on them and that's how it all began," Bhandarkar said.

"The story idea came after flipping through Vijay Mallya's calendars of beautiful girls... I realized what happens to them after

the calendars are made... after that they vanish. Where they go, what they do... These questions interested me."

Bhandarkar said he is not a Rs 100-crore filmmaker, but he is confident of the box office success of

Madhur Bhandarkar

'Calendar Girls'. "I am a storyteller, not a commercial filmmaker, a realistic filmmaker... Luckily I get boxoffice success, critical acclaim and sometimes a National Award.

"I am happy in my space. I am not a Rs 100 crore filmmaker. I am cool in what I do. One should do things in any field in what he is comfortable with. I am comfortable with making realistic films," he said. -PTI

September 25, 2015

India Post 39 www.indiapost.com

Katy Perry performs for assistants NEW YORK: At an exclusive and intimate New York Fashion Week party, Katy Perry dedicated a song not to fabulous designers or picture-perfect models, but to their assistants.

Perry closed her 30-minute set at the Plaza Hotel with her inspirational and anthemic No. 1 hit, ``Firework.'' Before singing the tune, she told the audience: ``I always feel like an outcast or a black sheep because I'm no longer sample size.''

Then she said to the few hundred lively guests, ``This next song is a song I want you to remember when you're going about your day and you rip your pants, you have two Band-Aids fall off of the back of your heel, you're sweating, there's coffee all over your blouse. I'm talking about all the assistants here. And you feel, maybe, like a little plastic bag.''

``We're all human,'' she said. ``We all start somewhere.''

Perry performed at a party by Harper's Bazaar honoring women in fashion. ``Ladies, make some noise if you're in the house,'' she yelled. ``Fashion Week's almost over - you can drink as much as you want.''

She kicked off her set with ``Roar'' and performed popular hits like ``I Kissed a Girl,'' ``Teenage Dream'' and ``Dark Horse.''

Perry was honored alongside Oprah Winfrey, Mariah Carey, Willow Smith, Jessica Chastain, Dakota Johnson and others. Attendees included Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, Rita Ora, Kate Upton, Jaden Smith and R&B singer Maxwell. ``You paved the way for so many of us,'' Perry said of Carey. -AP

New book for brides to get in shape for D-Day NEW DELHI: For all brides-tobe, especially those who are struggling to fit into that perfect dress for their big day, a new book spelling out the right bridal diet comes to the rescue.

Penned down by dietitian Nishi Grover, "The Bridal Diet" is a book that guides soon-to-be-brides to lose weight and get into great shape in a limited span of time without having to hit the gym or going on crash diets.

It outlines a diet program so that the days leading up to their wedding can be stress-free.

"All brides come to me extremely motivated. They have limited time and they want to lose weight very fast. They can't spare too much time because they have to go shopping and take care of other things."

"In the limited time that I get with them, I try and do my best without making them feel stressed, deprived or have sleepless nights over whether they'll fit into their dress on time," says Nishi.

Although the book primarily focuses on the wedding belles, the author makes its very clear

that the book really is for everyone, because "health is not just for those who are about to get married."

"This book is actually on fitness. It is a book on good health and well being. There is a section in which I have specialized in bridal diet but essentially it is about eating healthy and living a healthy lifestyle and who doesn't want to be a bride for life," she says.

Neatly divided into five parts, the book steers the bride through a plan in a calculated manner, reaffirming that the goal she has set is not unattainable.

"A fit body is an investment everyone should make," the author writes in the book.

Nishi, who also has the bestselling "Lose a Kilo a Week" to her credit has introduced in this book the concept of CCQ diet (low-calorie, low-carbs, low-quantity) combined with exercise to make the bride fit and healthy.

The program highlights the essential foods that one should be eating, when and how much. Most importantly, it teaches one to control the self, when tempted to go haywire. -PTI

40 India Post

September 25, 2015

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A

splendid town in the Jalpaiguri District of West Bengal, Dooars (daaors) acts as the doorway to the entire north-eastern region of India being located on the Indo-Bhutan border.

The valley is covered in lush greenery offering a rejuvenating sight for the eyes of a tired city dweller.

Drained by mountain rivers like the Teesta, Torsa, Jaldhaka, Raidak and their tributaries, the aura of the valley refreshes the body and soul of visitors. Most parts of the valley are covered in thick verdant forests.

The roads are cut along these forests and a drive through these roads with dense forests on both sides can really be an unforgettable experience.

One major attraction of the Dooars (daaors) Valley are its existing wildlife sanctuaries. The Jaldapara Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most famous sanctuaries in this area. You can spot the onehorned rhino which is the most famous inhabitant of this region.

Other animals include the bison, leopard, different types of reptiles, wild boars, spotted deer and a large

number of peacocks. Other sanctuaries located here include the Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary, the Gorumara National Park and the Buxa Tiger Project.

Tourist attractions Chilapata forest: Chilapata Forest falls on the way to Cooch Behar from Jaldapara. This is another dense forest with elephants and leopards. But, be warned, the most dangerous inhabitants of the forest are armed robbers!

In fact, less than three vehicles are not allowed into the forest at any given time for security reasons.

Cont’d on page 42

September 25, 2015

Travel & Hospitality Post

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41

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India, US to exempt certain people from checks NEW DELHI: India and the US are working on a pact that will exempt a certain category of Indians, like former Presidents, Prime Ministers and other "high dignitaries", big industrialists and some film stars, from immigration checks in America.

Top immigration officials of the two countries recently held a meeting for implementation of the Global Entry, a US Customs and Border Protection program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.

The meeting discussed what categories of people from India could be exempted from the immigration checks in the US, sources said.

In this context, the names of former President Pratibha Patil, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, industrialists Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani and film stars Amitabh Bachchan and Shahrukh Khan were specifically mentioned, they said.

Significantly, Shahrukh was

once detained at a US airport because his name resembled that of somebody on the watchlist.

"The US has been pressing for India's inclusion in the Global Entry so that high dignitaries, frequent flyers and top industrialists

US permanent resident card, place their fingerprints on the scanner for fingerprint verification and complete a customs declaration.

The kiosk issues the traveler a transaction receipt and directs the traveler to baggage claim and the

could visit America without any hassle," a source said.

Individuals included in the list enter the US through automatic kiosks at select airports. At airports, program members proceed to Global Entry kiosks, present their machine-readable passport or

exit.

Two foremost criteria for inclusion of the Global entry program for any individual is that he or she should not have any criminal record or anyway connected with any money laundering case.

So far, citizens of seven coun-

tries are getting benefits of America's Global Entry program.

The countries are The Netherlands, Panama, South Korea, Germany, Peru, Mexico, Canada. Brazil and India are likely to be part of the program next year.

"Discussions are continuing.

We expect it to kick off for Indian citizens some time next year. If the program becomes successful, the list would be enhanced," the sources said.

India proposes to prepare a list, which will initially have around 2,000 individuals like top industrialists, film stars, former occupants of high ranking posts and frequent flyers, the sources said.

Every applicant will have to go through a rigorous background check by Indian security agencies before sending the name to the US authority which will give the final nod after again doing a thorough background check.

Security agencies will keep doing background check of every individual included in the list periodically and if any adverse report comes in-between, the individual will be removed from the list, they said.

However, even in case someone is removed from the elite list,

such person can still enter USA but will have to go through the routine processes.

The idea behind the Global Entry program is to reduce pressure on US immigration officials as they would have no role if anyone carrying the machine-readable passport arrives at the designated airports.

The official said in later phases, the government would launch a dedicated website where any Indian can apply online to be included for the program.

Travelers must be pre-approved for the Global Entry program. All applicants undergo a rigorous background check and in-person interview before enrolment.

While Global Entry's goal is to speed travelers through the process, members may still be selected for further examination when entering the United States.

Any violation of the program's terms and conditions will result in the appropriate enforcement action and termination of the traveler's membership privileges.

As of December 2014, Global Entry was available at 42 US airports and 12 preclearance locations.-PTI

Train coaches to come alive with wildlife images 'Tiger safari' in 3 Madhya NEW DELHI: The bland and barren coaches of passenger trains may soon have exciting images of tigers, cranes, trees and other wildlife painted on them.

Indian Railway is actively considering a proposal of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to paint coaches and stations with the images of wildlife to spread awareness about conservation and promote tourism through pictorial representation.

"We are considering a WWFIndia proposal of having pictorial representation of natural habitats and wildlife on certain trains and stations to create awareness about the need for conservation and protection of forest, tiger, birds other species," said a senior Railway Ministry official.

As per the plan, tiger will be the main theme of the campaign apart from birds such as crane. There will also be trees, bushes, water bodies to showcase greenery and jungle life.

To begin with, railway stations at Sawai Madhopur and Bharatpur and coaches of Nizamuddin-Kota Jan Shatabdi Express will have paintings of wildlife and forest.

Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu already had a discussion with tiger conservationist Valmik Thapar for taking forward the message of conservation through pictorial representation at Sawai Madhopur and Bharatpur railway

stations and on some selected passenger trains.

WWF-India will set up a project design team which will work out details with the railway officials.

The project may be later extended to trains linking wildlife sanctuar-

ies.

The design team will visit the two railway stations shortly to get a first hand idea of the sites and potential for pictorial depictions.

The pictorial representation of wildlife and forest will also serve to promote sanctuaries as tourist destinations.

"Paintings on trains and stations will serve dual purpose - nature conservation as well as tourism promotion," the official said.

Paintings will be done by local artists and WWFIndia will provide technical and necessary financial support to the artists and designers involved in the exercise.

Describing the move as "innovative", railway officials said, "Our endeavor is to carry forward the message of environment conservation through innovative paintings of wildlife such as tiger, bear, birds, crane along with trees, bushes and water bodies on trains and stations."

The project can be extended to other stations and trains after the Rajasthan experiment depending upon its successful execution, sources said.-PTI

Pradesh reserves BHOPAL: Tiger Safari will be launched in three reserves in Madhya Pradesh to promote tourism, a move which is being opposed by wildlife activists.

The three safaris will be created

in Bandhavgarh, Pench and Kanha tiger reserves of the state. A proposal in this regard has been approved by the state government, according to the minutes of the meetings held on the matter.

The safaris will be operating in buffer area as it will reduce the pressure from the core, considered the main habitat of tigers in a reserve, it said.

For this purpose, Madhya Pradesh Eco Tourism Board will come out with a tender for construction of fencing and other works.

Six tiger reserves in Madhya Pradesh - Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Panna, Bori-Satpura, SanjayDubri and Pench - have about 308 big cats, as per a government report on tiger population, 2014.

However, wildlife activists claim that the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) had some time back ordered deferment of the state government's proposal to create tiger safari in Pench reserve.

"The state government is violating NTCA guidelines by going ahead with tiger safari. NTCA has deferred a decision in this regard. Also, tigers should not be kept in captivity. I have complained about the state government's move to the NTCA," activist Ajay Dubey said.

He said it was also proposed by the state government to take permission from Central Zoo Authority for the purpose.

"They have not taken the permission as yet," Dubey said. -PTI

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Dooars

Lush green doorway to the North-East

Cont’d from page 40

The prime reason for hazarding such a trip would be to visit the 5th century CE Nal or Mendabari Fort, mentioned in Marco Polo's travelogue.

Dalgaon View Point: Dalgaon View Point is a 2-hr walk from Gairibas, which in turn is a 4-km drive from Jaldhaka village. The

fantastic walk is not hard on the feet and very pleasing to the heart.

It goes through patches of wild forest and wildflowers.

The view all along the way is spectacular. The lush green hills of Bhutan are stretched across the horizon; in the plains below flows the Dechu from Bhutan that becomes the Jaldhaka at Bindu, where it enters India. Birds flock to these hills in winter. A picnic basket, a bird book, sunscreen lotion and a warm jacket would give you a perfect day here.

Coronation Bridge: Walk or drive the 2 km to this feat of engineering excellence over the Teesta called Coronation Bridge, built to commemorate King George VI's coronation in 1937 by John Chambers, the last British executive engineer of the Darjeeling PWD. From the bridge, the Teesta River flowing along a deep gorge is a sight to behold.

Mongpong: Mongpong, just north of Siliguri, overlooks the Coronation Bridge on the Teesta River. It is usually treated as a chai

halt along trips up and down from Sikkim. But if you stand on the forested ridge at sunset and watch the sublime beauty of the Sal forests of the Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary and the Teesta, you'll realize Mongpong is a destination in its own right.

Suntalekhola: Suntalekhola is the valley with a stream of the same name, where there is absolutely no human habitation except the For-

est Department cottages. The fairytale setting of Suntalekhola elevates you to far greater heights than the altimeter's reading of 2,475 ft. Lovingly girdled by a gurgling brook and surrounded on all sides by towering mountains in varying shades of green, Suntalekhola is connected to the civilized world only by a hanging footbridge that shakes every time you take a step.

It doesn't get further away from it

all than this.

Paren village: Paren village, 5 km away from Jaldhaka, is a tiny hamlet hidden in this corner of the Himalayas, undiscovered even by seasoned Bengali tourists. This is a good place to walk around and soak in nature's glory. Spend a day in the village roaming around, discovering it through chats with the very friendly villagers.

Jaldhaka: The drive to Jaldhaka is enchanting. All around is the Chapramari Forest so deep and green, it radiates a fairytale like energy. It is impossible to take your eyes off the forest.

The beautiful forest road makes its way through a little village called Sipchu, with little huts on stilts, some spice and jackfruit plantations and another tiny little village by a dancing hill river. Little pink, blue, green and yellow cottages dot the roadside and hill slopes. All of them have vibrant flower gardens. Prayer flags blow in the wind, wildflowers grow on the hill slopes, the river rushes below. There's no big market, no concrete buildings, no hooting cars.

Jaldhaka is a hill traveler's idyll.

Samsing: Samsing, with its orange orchards and cardamom plantations, is a hamlet of about a hundred households, adjoining a tea estate that has seen better days.

Samsing and Suntalekhola are the crest and trough of the Kitap Singh Hill. Also visit the Rocky Island Adventure Camp, an ecotourism endeavor by the side of the gushing river Murti, 5 km from Suntalekhola.

Oodlabari Tea Estate: The unique microclimate of the Dooars, caused by a mĂŠlange of mist and rain, produces some of the world's most delicate tea. There are about 150 estates in the Dooars. Among them, Oodlabari (17 km away) deserves a special mention as it ranks amongst the few fine green-tea producing gardens.

Things to do

Trekking at Neora Valley National Park: The more adventurous can carry on further to Reche La Pass, the park's highest point at 10,341 ft, the tri-junction of Bhutan, Sikkim and West Bengal.

The Neora Valley National Park with its dense forests, colorful wild orchids, broad medley of butterflies and meandering mountain streams is one of the few remaining virgin forests in the country.

The recent discovery of the Royal Bengal Tiger here has prompted the administration to include it in the list of sensitive wildlife zones. For this trek, you need permission from the Forest Department office in Samsing. It is also advisable to take a guide along.

Bindu Hydel Electric Project: The Bindu Hydel Electric Project near Jaldhaka is another place to visit. You can cross the bridge to

Bhutan just for the thrill of being in another country (Indians don't need a visa or passport, but it's best to carry your photo ID). The tea shops near the dam are perfect to while away time watching the river flow by. In winter, park here and get the little Bhutanese children carrying oranges to share some with you!

Best time to visit Though Dooars can be visited almost all throughout the year, the best time to visit is between mid September to May. Generally all the forests remain closed during the rainy seasons.

How to reach Dooars can be reached by rail, road and air. Since the majority of hotels and resorts are located at Lataguri, the most convenient entry to the Dooars is through NJP or New Mal junction. The nearest airport is Bagdogra (IXB). India Beacons Sojourn arranges for pickup from all road and rail heads in the Dooars.

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4 Indian museums among top 25 NEW DELHI: Four Indian museums are listed amongst the best in Asia, picked by leading travel site TripAdvisor for its Travelers Choice awards.

Bagore Hi Haveli (Udaipur), Darshan Museum (Pune), Don Bosco Center for Indigenous Cultures (Mawlai) and Hall of Fame (Leh) find itself in the list.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York has been ranked

tute of Chicago (No 3) The Lourve, The state Hermitage Museum and Winter Palace, and National Gallery among others.

The announcement is part of Travelers' Choice awards for museums around the world, top tips from contributors for visiting museums as well as top-rated value hotel options for travelers near award-winning museums.

"Travelers' Choice Museums

Bagore Hi Haveli museum (Udaipur)

number one in the world while the Museum of Qin Terra-cotta Warriors and Horses in China topped the Asia list.

There are no museums from India in the top 25 world list which includes Musse d'Orsay, Art Insti-

brings to the fore gems that enrich the holiday experience by helping us connect and understand the glorious heritage of a destination.

This year's list sheds light on offbeat names that most of the Indian travelers may not have heard of"

Nikhil Ganju, Country Manager, TripAdvisor India said in a statement.

"It is also fantastic to see four Indian museums amongst the best in Asia and we hope that this number only grows in the coming years" Ganju said.

In total, 591 winners were identified, including the top 25 in the world and dedicated lists for Asia, Canada, Europe, India, South America, South Pacific, the UK and the US. The awards are based on reviews and opinions from TripAdvisor travelers across the world. Award winners have been determined using an algorithm that takes into account the quantity and quality of reviews for museums around the world, gathered over a 12-month period.

In the list of top 10 museums from India are Darshan Museum (Pune), Mani Bhawan Gandhi Museum (Mumbai), Bangore ki Haveli (Udaipur), Anokhi Museum of Hand Printing (Jaipur), Sala Jung Museum (Hyderabad), INS Kurusura Submarine Museum (Vishakapatnam), the National Gandhi Museum (Delhi), Auto World Vintage Car Museum (Ahmedabad), Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum (Bangalore) and the Indira Gandhi Memorial Museum (Delhi).

IGIA Delhi bags Best Airport Award NEW DELHI: Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) has bagged the Best Airport Award (under class X cities category) for 2013-14.

The award, part of the National Tourism Awards (NTA) was presented by President Pranab Mukherjee at a glittering ceremony held at Vigyan Bhavan, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) said in a statement.

The Best Airport awards were presented in categories, one for class X cities - Delhi, Greater Mumbai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru while the other awards were for the airports other than these cities, the statement said.

The best airport awards were judged on seven parameters including tourist-friendly infrastructure, maintenance and upkeep, adaptation of eco-friendly practices, availability of transport facility from airport to nearest city center and facilities for the physically challenged persons.

DIAL is joint venture between

Airports Authority of India (AAI) and GMR Group-led consortium.

The GMR along with its consortium partner Fraport holds 74 per cent stake while the rest are with AAI. The Ministry of Tourism presents National To u r i s m Awards to various segments of the travel, hospitality and tourism industry every year.

The event was attended

by Tourism Minister M a h e s h Sharma, senior Ministry officials and representatives of states and various stakeholders including airport operators.

"We are privileged to receive this coveted award and we dedicate it to all our stakeholders at IGIA. GMR Group takes pride in

transforming the passenger experience at India's gateway and the capital airport," DIAL chief executive I Prabhakara Rao said.

IGIA is the largest airport in South Asia, serving over 115 destinations with 56 international and

eight domestic airlines.

With an annual passenger handling capacity of over 60 million, Delhi airport is the busiest in the country and South Asia's only hub for Star Alliance carriers, of which national carrier Air India is a member. -PTI

'Get Upfront' is Air India's special offer NEW DELHI: National carrier Air India's economy class passengers can now enjoy the luxury and comfort of executive cabin while the executive class customers can get upgrade to the first class by paying a few extra bucks.

The special offer, 'Get Upfront' from the full service carrier covers 45 domestic routes besides key international markets such as the US, Europe, Middle East and Far East and can be availed till March next year, according to a release.

Under the 'Get Upfront Offer' a passenger can opt for an upgrade to a higher class of travel, for a nominal amount, it said adding both domestic and international travelers can enjoy the luxury of the first and executive class.

The options are from economy to business class as also business

to first Class based on the aircraft configuration.

According to the airline, for a distance of up to 750 km, an economy class passengers flying on domestic route can get upgrade to the two higher classes by paying just Rs 5,500 (excluding service tax), the release said.

Similarly, for distances beyond 750 km a domestic passenger will be charged only Rs 7,500 (excluding service tax) if seeking an upgrade, it said.

The scheme is available across 45 domestic stations including Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Chennai till March 31, 2016.

The upgrade offer to international destinations is available to US, Europe, Middle East, Far East, SAARC and Australia. -PTI

J&K plans 4 projects as eco-tourist destinations SRINAGAR: Describing forest as nature's great gift, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed has called for framing a policy and involving people to conserve forest wealth in the state.

"A policy paper should be framed on rejuvenating our forest wealth. The people's participation should be central to the efforts of the government in saving our green gold," Sayeed said addressing a high-level meeting here.

The Chief Minister also asked the department to prepare a comprehensive plan with focus on public-private partnership for forest conservation.

"We can approach the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) for funding of this project," he said.

Placing high priority on regeneration of forests, the Chief Minister noted with concern the rampant denudation of the forest areas.

"The Forest Department has to launch massive plantation drives to address the serious issue," he said, while stressing upon cutting down such species of poplar trees which adversely affect the health of the people.

Sayeed asked the department to work in a mission mode so as to

change the common perception about the functioning of the department.

An official spokesman said it was informed in the meeting that Social Forestry Department would, in the first instance, start afforestation drives from Khiram to Budroo in Kashmir and Kathua to Sarthal in Jammu division on a grand scale, over an area spread over 1,470 hectares.

On the issue of potential of the state in commercial propagation of medicinal plants, the department has prepared a project worth Rs

12 crore, with sites identified in Jammu, Kathua, Nowshera and Poonch in Jammu division and Anantnag, Lidder, Langate and Pir Panjal in Kashmir, where variety of species of medicinal plants can be grown on a commercial basis.

Putting the onus of developing eco-tourist sites on the Forest Department, the Chief Minister suggested dovetailing the efforts of the Forest Department with that of the Tourism Development Authorities to obtain optimum results. -PTI

In Brief US appeals against freeing immigrant kids LOS ANGELES: Federal officials have appealed a court order to quickly release immigrant children from family detention centers.

Homeland Security Secretary Jeh C. Johnson said in a statement that officials were taking steps to comply with the order by U.S. District Judge Dolly M. Gee but disagreed with portions of her decision. He did not specify which portions.

In recent months, the government has been converting family detention centers into processing centers for interviews and screenings, Johnson said.

"The detention of families is becoming short-term in most cases," he said.

Last month, Gee ruled that the federal government was in breach of a longstanding legal agreement stipulating that immigrant children cannot be held in secured facilities that aren't licensed to care for children.

She gave authorities until Oct. 23 to comply with her order to release them, with their mothers when possible.

Peter Schey, an attorney for the plaintiffs, said he expected the government would argue the children are not covered by the 1997 agreement because they arrived on the U.S.-Mexico border with their mothers and not entirely alone.

"We're disappointed that Secretary Johnson is persisting in pursuing a mindless policy that causes extreme harm to innocent children," he said. -AP

„

India to reduce Electronic Tourist Visa fee

NEW DELHI: India has decided to reduce visa fees for tourists arriving under the highly successful Electronic Tourist Visa (ETV) scheme, which has facilitated almost a 900 per cent jump in tourist arrivals.

India's fee for ETV is USD 60 and the facility extends to 113 countries.

However, there are many countries which offer ETV or Visa on Arrival to Indians at a lesser fee some offer it at USD 20, USD 35 or USD 40 and a few charge no visa fee.

Many of these countries are asking India to reciprocate the gesture.

"Following a request of the External Affairs Ministry, the Home Ministry has examined the feasibility of reducing the ETV fees and decided to rationalize the fee structure," a senior Home Ministry official said.

Cont'd on Page 45

Immigration

Restaurant admits illegally hiring immigrants

44 India Post

www.indiapost.com

September 25, 2015

Details on page 46

Hungary empowers army as Europe struggles with refugee crisis BUDAPEST: Hungary has given the army drastic new powers to stem illegal migration ahead of two key EU meetings on how to handle the unrelenting stream of

migrant laws.

Under the legislation, the army can participate in border control and may use non-lethal force, while police will be able to enter

Hungary seals last gap on main border crossing to refugees

refugees entering Europe.

Hundreds of thousands fleeing conflict and poverty have already made it into Western Europe this year, with Austria registering 22,700 arrivals alone, after being shunted from one Balkan country to another as they traveled up from Greece.

Lawmakers in Hungary, which sealed off its border with Serbia to stop the flood of people heading north, have approved a final package of sweeping new anti-

private homes to look for illegal migrants.

"Soldiers deployed to the border can use coercive weapons designed to cause bodily harm, although in a non-lethal way, unless it cannot be avoided," it says, referring to rubber bullets, tear gas grenades and net guns.

Other legislation came into force allowing Hungary to jail anyone caught crossing the border illegally, which carries a maximum fine of five years in prison.

Prime Minister Viktor Orban told lawmakers in Budapest that migrants were "overrunning" Europe.

"They're not just banging on the door, they're breaking the door down on top of us," the 52-yearold right-winger said.

"Our borders are in danger, our way of life built on respect for the law, Hungary and the whole of Europe is in danger."

The continent's worst migration crisis since World War II has exposed deep rifts within the 28nation European Union, particularly between members in the former communist east and the wealthier west, the migrants' preferred destination.

Foreign ministers of the Czech

Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and Latvia - all of which reject proposals for binding migrant quotas championed by Germany - met in Prague with their counterpart from Luxembourg, which holds the EU presidency.

Polish Foreign Minister Grzegorz Schetyna said Warsaw could take in more refugees than its share under the proposed European Union quota plan to relocate 120,000 people, but stressed this should be on a voluntary basis and under certain conditions.

After the talks, Czech Foreign Minister Lubomir Zaoralek insisted they were "absolutely dedicated" to reaching an agreement with fellow EU nations. -AFP

6 kids drown as ship hits migrant dinghy ANKARA: At least 13 migrants - six of them children - drowned off Turkey after the inflatable dinghy carrying them to Greece was hit in the dark by a Turkish-flagged ship, Turkish media reported.

The children's bodies were recovered by the Turkish coastguard with reports from

Greece indicating that another two children may still be missing.

They were on a flimsy vessel taking at least 46 migrants from Turkey's northwestern coast to the Greek holiday island of Lesbos when the accident happened, the private Dogan news agency reported.

Cont'd on Page 46

California GOP softens immigration stance LOS ANGELES: The California Republican Party has voted to soften its stance on immigration, seeking to appeal to the state's growing Latino population and distance itself from the harsh rhetoric of presidential candidate Donald Trump.

The changes approved say Republicans ``hold diverse views'' on ``what to do with the millions of people who are currently here illegally,'' the Los Angeles Times reported.

Although the new language emphasizes opposition to ``amnesty,'' it removes the statement that ``allowing illegal immigrants to remain in California undermines respect for the law,'' ac-

cording to the newspaper.

The changes were proposed by a Latino party official from Fresno, Marcelino Valdez, in reaction to what he called Trump's ``of-

Valdez said.

In a statement after the vote, he called it ``an anti-Proposition 187 plank,'' referring to the controversial 1994 ballot measure that

Although the new language emphasizes opposition to ``amnesty,'' it removes the statement that ``allowing illegal immigrants to remain in California undermines respect for the law,'' according to the newspaper. fensive'' comments about immigrants.

It's important to use ``language that is more appealing to California's diverse electorate,''

would have prevented immigrants in the country illegally from receiving public services. It was invalidated by federal courts, but not before it helped drive Latinos

away from the Republican Party.

Last month, Trump, who's leading many polls, outlined proposals to deny citizenship to U.S.-born babies of immigrants living in the United States illegally as part of an immigration plan. Emphasizing border security and millions of deportations, he also says he would build a wall along the U.S. southern border and force Mexico to pay for it.

Those proposals, and his comments suggesting that Mexicans coming across the border are largely ``criminals and rapists,'' have angered a population group national Republicans see as critical to the party's success. -AP

Immigration Post

September 25, 2015

India Post 45

www.indiapost.com

Immigration enforcement under intense scrutiny LAGUNA NIGUEL: Sitting in a narrow strip of gray cubicles in a suburban California office, immigration agents and analysts quickly scroll through computer databases to try to determine which inmates sitting in jails across the country should be deported.

It looks more like a corporate office than a criminal crackdown, but the 85-person center is a key part of the federal government's efforts to identify and deport immigrants convicted of serious crimes.

After many police and sheriff's agencies refused to honor federal requests to hold immigrants in jail citing concerns about community relations and lawsuits, immigration agents had to work speedily to take them into custody. Now, Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials are trying to be more flexible to regain support from local law enforcers, asking them to at least tell them when inmates facing deportation are being freed. ``There are criminals walking out of the jail, and we're trying to minimize that to the fullest extent possible,'' said Timothy S. Robbins, deputy assistant director of ICE's targeting operations division, which oversees the center in Laguna Niguel.

If doing so means specializing how the agency works with local law enforcement, ``we're going to do that,'' he said.

Immigration enforcement has been under intense scrutiny since an illegal immigrant who had been deported five times was charged with the fatal shooting of a woman on a San Francisco pier this summer.

The man was jailed by the local sheriff's department but released under San Francisco's immigrantfriendly policies despite a request

by ICE to keep him in custody until federal agents could pick him up.

Several hundred cities and counties have adopted policies in

recent years limiting or prohibiting cooperation with immigration agents, citing concerns about eroding ties with immigrant communities and fear of lawsuits after a federal judge ruled that detaining inmates solely based on ICE requests was unconstitutional.

gion, one of the key spots where detainers were used. Now, the Pacific Enforcement Response Center issues about 40 percent of all immigration detainers and requests for notification when inmates are being released, handling the task for much of the country

An Immigration and Customs Enforcement, ICE deportation officer reviews forms required to issue a detainer asking local law enforcement to hold someone until ICE agents can pick the person up, at the the Pacific Enforcement Response Center in Laguna Niguel, Calif.

Since then, immigration authorities have also narrowed their focus to people convicted of more serious crimes, and the number of so-called detainer requests which aim to have jails hold inmates up to 48 hours for deportation officers to pick them up dropped by 24 percent in the 2014 fiscal year from a year earlier.

At the same time, the number of people deported from the United States, not counting those apprehended on the border, fell 24 percent, federal statistics show.

Immigration authorities had begun issuing detainers based on electronic data after getting access to fingerprints from jail bookings under enhanced law enforcement information-sharing after the 2001 terrorist attacks.

ICE initially started the hub in suburban Southern California to streamline the process for the re-

on nights and weekends.

The office, which issued 6,800 detainers and notification requests between June and August, contains half a dozen computers that collect leads for potential deportees and spit out the results on a large printer. Analysts and agents then search for matches in databases for visa holders, naturalized citizens and border arrests to determine the immigration status of those booked into local jails.

In the last three months, detainers or notification requests were sent in 11 percent of the center's cases. Others are typically sent to field agents for investigation and about half are set aside because the person is here legally or doesn't have a serious criminal conviction to make them a priority for deportation under the program, which was revamped last year, ICE officials said.

India to reduce Electronic Tourist Visa fee Cont'd from Page 44

"Following a request of the External Affairs Ministry, the Home Ministry has examined the feasibility of reducing the ETV fees and decided to rationalize the fee structure," a senior Home Ministry official said.

Though a formal announcement is yet to be made, it is learnt

that there will be total four fee slabs between USD 40 to nil.

The fee for ETV will completely be on reciprocal basis.

Under the ETV scheme, an applicant receives an email authorizing him or her to travel to India after it is approved and he or she can travel with a printout of this authorization.

On arrival, the visitor has to

present the authorization to the immigration authorities who would then stamp the entry into the country.

India currently offers ETV facility to citizens of 113 countries and it plans to raise it to 150 countries by March 31, 2016.

Tourists can arrive in 16 designated airports across the country. -PTI

Under the new approach, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's department lets immigration agents interview inmates who have detainers but won't hold them beyond their release date. In Santa Clara County, officials still won't honor detainers but are weighing whether to notify ICE about serious offenders, while authorities in San Francisco won't do either despite public outcry after the shooting. ``They're kind of tailor making the program to fit every jurisdiction,'' said Los Angeles sheriff's commander Jody Sharp.

Muzaffar Chishti, director of the Migration Policy Institute's New York office, said the country is creating a patchwork of immigration enforcement policies instead of the uniform system officials sought to create after 9/11. ``If we let local jurisdictions determine the nature of the immigration enforcement, all it means is local culture permeates everything else,'' he said.

Border enforcement advocates say too many convicted criminals

are still going free, and immigrant supporters say the new approach continues to encourage racial profiling since police know when they arrest an immigrant, even on a minor charge, deportation officers can find them. ``It remains to be seen whether the constitutional defects have been repaired or merely rebooted in a different form,'' said Chris Newman, legal director for the National Day Laborer Organizing Network.

Immigration authorities say focusing on people with past criminal convictions helps combat profiling. And the government is preparing new paperwork for agencies that want to help identify more immigrants for deportation.

Jessica Vaughan, director of policy studies for the Center for Immigration Studies, said cooperating with ICE should be the norm. ``No matter how much ICE is restricted and restrained, there are still places that will obstruct them,'' said Vaughan, whose group wants more immigration enforcement. ``They will never be satisfied.'' -AP

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Civil & Criminal Litigation Felonies, Misdemeanors, Inc DUI 1 Personal Injury, Business, Divorce etc.

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2335 W. Devon Ave., Suite 204, Tel: 773-381-1820 Chicago, IL 60659

Immigration Post

46 India Post

September 25, 2015

www.indiapost.com

Restaurant admits illegally hiring immigrants WICHITA, Kan.: The company that operates a Twin Peaks bar and restaurant in east Wichita has admitted knowingly employing at least 30 immigrants who were living in the United States unlawfully, a case that highlights a growing focus by federal prosecutors in Kansas on targeting businesses for immigration-related offenses.

Le Grande Tetons LLC pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Wichita to one count of engaging in a pattern and practice of hiring workers it knew were not authorized to be employed in this country. At the same hearing, the company was sentenced to pay a $50,000 fine as part of a plea deal with the government.

Defense attorney Scott A. Eads did not immediately return a message seeking comment.

The Wichita-based company agreed to pay the fine within 180 days of its guilty plea. The government agreed not to file additional charges against Le Grande Tetons or a company owned by the same individuals that operates a Twin Peaks restaurant in west Wichita. The restaurants' owners, officers, directors or current and former employees also won't face charges. The exceptions are two former managers who remain under investigation.

Le Grande Tetons allowed some of its employees who were in the U.S. illegally to be used by the other company, Paradise West LLC, to

work at the west-side restaurant, according to court documents. ``The word is getting out: Employers who knowingly hire foreign workers who are not authorized to work in the United States face criminal prosecution,'' U.S. Attorney Barry Grissom said in a news release. ``I blame employers for this practice, not the employ-

workers again in 2014, even rehiring six of the former employees.

Most came from Mexico.

The scheme unraveled when a Twin Peaks worker who was upset that he was losing hours to the employees who were working illegally sent an email to a Homeland Security agent. That employee also provided the name of a man-

Cont'd from Page 44

ees. It isn't very hard to figure out whether someone from another country has permission to work in the United States.''

A U.S. Department of Homeland Security inspection in September 2013 identified more than 20 immigrants working illegally for Twin Peaks in Wichita, and a manager promised at the time to stop hiring such workers, according to court records.

The government says restaurant management began using the

student, and seven years later, they are still friends. ``I think the important thing for me is that Intercambio brings communities together and people who normally don't have the opportunity to share experiences,'' Berg said.

In Lafayette, where the immi-

Berg said Lafayette is a town that embraces diversity, and citizens need to work to help build bridges between immigrants and nonimmigrants. ``It's imperative that people feel embraced and welcome in Lafayette Berg, who was a volunteer tutor for Intercambio, said the organization has important roots in the community.

She met individually with her

ploying workers living in the U.S. illegally.

Similar prosecutions in recent years have ensnared other Kansas businesses. One of the biggest involving an employer using workers in the U.S. illegally led to the forfeiture of the Clarion hotels in Overland Park, Kansas, and Kansas City, Missouri, after their owner was sentenced in March to 27 months in prison. -AP

6 kids drown as ship hits migrant dinghy

ager who had knowledge of the hiring practices, according to an affidavit used to obtain the warrant that was used to search the restaurants in July.

That manager told authorities that he resigned when several employees, who had been fired in 2013 because they had no work authorization, were asked by Twin Peaks managers to return to work even though those employees were still in the U.S. unlawfully. He also provided authorities with in-

Boulder needs English tutors for immigrants LAFAYETTE, Colo.: A Boulder County nonprofit organization that teaches English to immigrants is having a problem attracting tutors, creating a waiting list for people who want to become selfsufficient and contribute to the community.

Lafayette Mayor Christine

formation allowing them to match the workers' new identities with names used at the time of the 2013 inspection.

Le Grande Tetons has sold or is in the process of selling its restaurant, the U.S. attorney's office said.

The case comes a week after the owner of the Route 56 Express gas station and convenience store in McPherson pleaded guilty to a similar charge for routinely em-

grant community is large, these connections are vital. Intercambio has an office in the Lafayette Public Library, but it also has a waiting list of 263 non-English speak-

ing immigrants seeking language classes. There are also shortages of volunteers at Intercambio's Longmont and Boulder locations.

Those seeking individual tutors may wait a year or longer, the Longmont Times-Call reported. ``There is a very large immigrant population and we just haven't tapped into the volunteers to match that,'' said Rachel Fuchs, Intercambio director of programs.

Berg said Lafayette is a town that embraces diversity, and citizens need to work to help build bridges between immigrants and non-immigrants. ``It's imperative that people feel embraced and welcome in Lafayette,'' Berg said. ``Language is such a personal thing and it's such an important thing to be able to communicate with your community.'' -AP

"It was dark, we saw the ship bearing down on us. We tried to signal with flashlights and cellphones but they did not see us," a survivor called Haseen told Greece's state news agency, ANA. Thrown into the water, the passengers were left fighting to keep their heads above water as a succession of big waves from the ship's wake crashed over them.

"We lost the children. We could not see them in the dark," Haseen said.

A mother and baby, who had spent at least two hours in the water, were among the survivors, according to ANA. The Greek coastguard said it had rescued 22 people from a boat that sank off Lesbos, apparently referring to the same incident, claiming there were 48 people on

same accident.

A day earlier, a five-year-old Syrian girl drowned and several other refugees were reported missing after their boat also sank trying to reach Lesbos.

The latest tragedy unfolded in the same stretch of water east of the island with a helicopter deployed by EU border agency Frontex spotting the migrants in the water, a spokeswoman for the Greek coastguard told AFP. "Two coastguard vessels went out and rescued 22 people, including three women and a child.

The survivors said there had been 46 people on board, but later this changed to 48 people," she added.

Eight children under 12 were still missing from the group, which paid 1,000 euros (USD 1,130) a head to a Turkish smuggler for the journey, the agency

Syrian refugees arrive aboard a dinghy after crossing from Turkey to the island of Lesbos, Greece. A boat with 46 people fleeing Syria sank in Greece and the coast guard said it is searching for more than 20 others missing.

board.

Greece's marine ministry said a search was underway for those missing.

The Greek coastguard later recovered the bodies of a woman and a young girl. It was not clear whether they had drowned in the

added.

There was no information on the migrants' nationalities but the crossing from Turkey to Greece is the most popular route for Syrians, Iraqis and other people fleeing conflicts and misery in the Middle East and Asia to Europe.-AFP

Datebook

September 25, 2015

NEW JERSEY Upcoming Sat,Oct 3

NEW YORK Upcoming Sun, Sep 27

• Shri Atul Purohit Navratri Garba Mohatsav in NJ

• An Evening Of Indian Classical Music & Dance

Venue: MetLife Stadium, 1 MetLife Stadium Drive, East Rutherford, NJ 07073 Time: 8:00 pm Contact: 732-770-2561

Venue: Queen Of Angels Church Parish Center, 44-04 Skillman Ave, NY 11104 Time : 06:00 pm Contact: 8482191079

Sat, Oct 10

Sat, Oct 3

• IFMP Navratri Raas Garba 2015 Venue: West Windsor Plainsboro High School North, 90 Grovers Mill Road, Plainsboro, NJ 08536 Time : 07:00 pm

Fri, Oct 16 • ICS Navratri 2015 Venue: Dunn Sports Center-NJ, 600,Pearl Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202 Time: 8:00 pm

• Sukhwinder Singh & Kanika Kapoor -Live in Concert Venue: Colden Center Auditorium ( Queens College), 65-30 Kissena Blvd, NY 11367 Time : 08:00 pm

Fri, Oct 16 • Patel Brothers & India House Navratri 2015 Venue: Garden State Exhibit Center, 50 Atrium Drive, Somerset, Nj 08873 Time : 09:00 pm

India Post 47

www.indiapost.com

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

CHICAGO

Upcoming

Upcoming

• Ramesh Chindam’s solo art show on 'Untold Expressions' Venue: 2801 Leavenworth San Francisco, CA 94109.

Contact: 415-699 5442 rameshchindamarts@gmail.com

Fri, Sep 25 • Bollywood Party: Masquerade Venue: M Lounge, 98 S Second St, San Jose, CA 95113 Time: 9:00 pm Contact: 9713442022

Sat, Sep 26 • Arijit Singh Live In Concert Venue: Oracle Arena, 7000 Coliseum Way, Oakland, CA 94621 Time: 8:00 pm Contact: 5108380055

Sat, Oct 3 • EID Milan Musical Show Venue: Shahnawaz Restaurant, 12225 Centralia St, Lakewood, Ca 90715 Time: 7:00 pm Contact: 714-397-7224

Sat, Oct 10 • MUSIC - MASALA - HANGAMA Venue: Jain Center of Southern California, 8072 Commonwealth Ave, Buena Park, CA Time: 5:30 am Contact: 949-215-9464

Sat, Oct 10 •GCA Raas Garba by- Palak & Ashish Vyas Sargam Group Venue: Washington High School, 38442 Fremont Blvd, Fremont, CA 94536 Time: 08:30 pm

Sat, Sep 26 • NAATAK VRINDAVAN

presents

Venue: CSettles Bridge Park, 380 Johnson Rd, Suwanee, GA 30024 Time: 06:00 pm

Sun, Oct 11 • Healing Music - Bombay Jayashri Live in San Jose Venue: Foothill college - Smithwick Theater, 12345 El Monte Rd, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 Time: 04:00 pm Contact: 408-252-1359

ATLANTA Upcoming Fri, Oct 2 • Shobanas Krishna Music Venue: Stafford Civic Center (Old), 1415 Constitution Ave, Stafford, TX 77477 Time: 7:30 pm Contact: 832-713-1713

Sat, Oct 3 • Shobanas Krishna Bollywood Dance Drama Venue: Lassiter high - Concert Hall, 2601 Shallowford Rd, Marietta, GA 30066 Time: 7:30 pm Contact: 404-483-3866

Sat, Oct 3 • Shobanas Krishna Musical in English Venue: Lassiter high - Concert Hall, 2601 Shallowford Rd, Marietta, GA 30066 Time: 07:00 pm Contact: 404-483-3866

ILLINOIS Upcoming 1st and 3rd Sunday of Month • Chicago Children's Bal Mukund Character Building Program and Hindi Literacy Classes Venue: Vogelei Center, 650 W. Higgins Road, Hoffmann Estates, IL 60192 (Next to Nissan Dealership) Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630-561-4807

Mondays and Fridays • Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes Metropolitan Asian Family Services Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL, Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Contact: 773-465-3105

Mondays and Fridays • Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes Where: Metropolitan Asian Family Services Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL, Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Contact: 773-465-3105

Swami Ishatmananda • Bhagavad Gita: Philosophy of life Venue: Public Library-95th Street 3015 Cedar Glade Rd Naperville IL 60564 Time: 1st friday of every month 7-8 pm Contact: 630-637-0662

• India Eternal: From the Vedic Age to the Present Venue: Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago 10915 N. Main Street Glendale Heights, IL 60139 Time: 10:00 pm Contact: 630-655-8822

„ Health

Line

Texas' uninsured rate falls, but still leads nation AUSTIN, Texas: Texas saw its percentage of residents without health insurance fall 3 points to 19.1 percent - but the state still has the nation's highest uninsured rate.

U.S. Census Bureau data shows about 5 million Texans were uninsured in 2014, down 701,000 from the previous year.

But that's still the nation's highest percentage of residents without health insurance, outpacing other top five-finishers Alaska, Florida, Georgia and Oklahoma.

Nationwide, about 12 percent of people are uninsured.

Texas also now leads the country in total number of people without health insurance, outpacing California, whose total fell to 4.8 million in 2014.

Texas refused to expand Medicaid coverage under the White House's signature health care law.

But 1 million-plus Texans signed up for health insurance coverage via a federally run online exchange. -AP

„ UNICEF launches health course for journalists NEW DELHI: A first-of-its-kind certificate course dealing with all aspects of Public Health Journalism and Communication has been launched by UNICEF India.

Critical Appraisal Skills (CASP) course is designed for media students and mid-career journalists, editors and government officials.

Framed by UNICEF India in collaboration with the University of Oxford and Thomson Reuters Foundation and the George Institute for Global Health, the course will be offered at the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC).

"Media is a key and strategic partner for UNICEF and this initiative aims to enhance knowledge and skills of media students and journalists on all aspects related to Public Health reporting.

We hope this will lead to even more informed coverage of health issues," Louis-Georges Arsenault, UNICEF India representative said.

The CASP course is currently being offered to public health professionals in UK. "For India, this elaborate module is being also being adapted for media professionals, both budding and experienced, and government representatives, to suit their needs of critical appraisal in the country's health context," Dr Premila Webster, Training Program Director at the Oxford School of Public Health said. -PTI

Health Science 48 India Post

www.indiapost.com

September 25, 2015

Things to know about the flu shot: Lots of options this year Details on Page 51

Appeals court upholds injunction halting health mandate ST. LOUIS: A federal appeals court has ruled that President Barack Obama's health care law unjustly burdens religiously affiliated employers by forcing them to help provide insurance coverage for certain contraceptives, even though they can opt out of directly paying for it.

The ruling by a three-judge 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals panel in St. Louis upheld lower court decisions that sided with plaintiffs who included three Christian colleges in Missouri, Michigan and Iowa.

The 25-page opinion conflicts with all other federal appellate courts, which have found in the U.S. government's favor.

As religiously affiliated entities, those colleges victorious with this ruling don't have to pay directly for their workers' birth control. Instead, they can seek an accommodation that requires their insurance providers to pay for it.

But the groups still say the scheme makes them complicit in the providing of contraception and subjected them to possible fines for noncompliance.

Circuit Judge Roger Wollman,

writing the ruling on the panel's behalf, wrote that the contraceptive mandate and accommodation process of the Affordable Care Act substantially burdens the plaintiffs' exercise of religion.

Those plaintiffs included Heartland Christian College in Newark, Missouri, Dordt College in Sioux Center, Iowa, and Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, as well as Bethel, Missouri-based CNS International Ministries Inc., a nonprofit provider of addiction services.

The Justice Department, which has called the lawsuits meritless and an attempt to prevent female employees from obtaining coverage, defended the federal government in the cases but directed The Associated Press' questions to the White House, where a statement called the rulings disappointing. ``As all of the other seven U.S.

courts of appeals to address this issue have held, the contraceptive

Circuit Judge Roger Wollman

accommodation process strikes the proper balance between ensuring women have equal access to health care and protecting religious beliefs,'' that statement read.

The Obama administration did

not indicate whether it would appeal, including asking the full 8th Circuit to consider the matter.

Lawsuits over the contraceptive mandate have been part of the lengthy political and legal battle over the health-care law Obama signed in 2010, with roughly 100 lawsuits from businesses and religiously affiliated colleges, hospitals and other not-for-profit organizations challenging the contraceptives requirement.

Federal appeals courts largely have ruled that informing the government of a religious objection does not interfere with the groups' religious rights. Several appeals already are pending at the Supreme Court.

In 2014, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of family-controlled businesses with a religious objection to paying for some or all of the approved contraceptives.

Their employees still could receive the birth control, but through an arrangement with the businesses' insurers or third-party insurance administrators. The government covers the cost of the contraceptives in those circumstances.-AP

Virginia scales back abortion clinic regulations RICHMOND, Va.: The State Board of Health has voted to scale back Virginia abortion clinic regulations that critics say were driven by politics and ideology, not medical science.

The most noteworthy revision would exempt Virginia's 17 existing clinics from strict newhospital standards, reversing a previous decision made by the board when it was dominated by appointees of former Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell. The board also limited the number of newhospital construction standards new clinics must meet.

Supporters of the tougher construction standards say they are necessary to protect women's health, but critics contend the real goal is to put clinics out of business by requiring cost-prohibitive and medically

unnecessary renovations.

Democratic Gov. Terry McAuliffe last year ordered the board to revisit the regulations.

McAuliffe has vowed to act as a ``brick wall'' against abortion restrictions. His appointees now

are subject to another public comment period and review by McAuliffe and Democratic Attorney General Mark Herring before a final board vote months from now.

Herring had advised the board

Abortion-rights supporters, including many medical professionals, urged the board to approve the revisions. They argued that abortion is safe and that the strict regulations would only hurt women by reducing their access to reproductive health services. hold eight of the 15 board positions. The other seven are McDonnell holdovers.

The board's 9-6 vote is one step in a lengthy regulatory process that must play out before the changes are final. The revisions

that it had authority to exempt existing clinics from the new-hospital construction standards. That directly contradicted the advice of his Republican predecessor, Ken Cuccinelli, who said the General Assembly clearly intended for the

strict building standards to apply to all clinics. Cuccinelli threatened not to represent board members if they were sued for exempting existing facilities.

House Majority Leader Kirk Cox told the board that rolling back the regulations ``would be circumventing the intent and will of the General Assembly'' and would make abortions more dangerous.

Abortion-rights supporters, including many medical professionals, urged the board to approve the revisions. They argued that abortion is safe and that the strict regulations would only hurt women by reducing their access to reproductive health services.

Cont'd on Page 50

September 25, 2015

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165,000 health care apps New York smoking rate goes down again available in US

S

martphone users now have more than 165,000 apps available to help them stay healthy or monitor a medical condition, but just three dozen account for nearly half of all downloads, according to a new report.

Most apps focus on fitness or wellness by helping the user do things like count calories or track steps walked. Doctors and other care providers also are taking a growing interest in using apps to

help patients, but concerns about a lack of research and data protection are limiting wider use of the technology, the IMS Institute for Healthcare Informatics said.

Even so, health app use is shifting from being a novelty to more of a core part of care for many people, said Murray Aitken, the

institute's executive director. ``We're clearly moving in that direction,'' he said.

The institute, which sells software that ranks apps, analyzed more than 26,000 available in the United States through either Apple or Android app stores. Its analysis doesn't count apps available through other venues like health care systems.

It found that the number of health-related apps for the iOS

operating system used by iPhones has more than doubled in just two years to about 90,000.

Most of the apps in its study are free. The most popular, or those with more than 10 million downloads, include MyFitnessPal's Calorie Counter and an exercise tracker from

Endomondo. At the other end, 40 percent of apps available in the U.S. market have less than 5,000 downloads.

Some apps are designed for specific medical conditions like TouchChat, which aims to help patients with autism, Down syndrome or other conditions communicate.

Calorie Counter also is among those most frequently recommended by doctors, along with the weight-loss app Lose It. Dr. Mike Sevilla said he started recommending apps to patients a few years ago after they began asking for advice about them. He frequently recommends apps to help patients track their exercise or diet. The Salem, Ohio, family doctor also said the Mayo Clinic offers good apps to help people learn about conditions like diabetes.

Dr. Robert Wergin doesn't recommend apps to patients yet, but he uses one he heard about at a conference to help profile cardiovascular risk.

The Milford, Nebraska-based president of the American Academy of Family Physicians said he's still getting familiar with the use of apps, and he'd like to see more evidence-based research that shows whether they can improve health before he starts recommending them. ``But I think there's great potential,'' he said. -AP

NEW YORK: The ranks of smokers are dwindling after a surprising uptick in a city known for tough steps to discourage tobacco use, health officials said.

A 2014 Department of Health survey showed fewer than 900,000 adults smoked, down from more than 1 million the year before. The 13.9 percent smoking rate last year roughly equals an all-time low in 2010. ``We have made strides in reducing the number of smokers in New York City'' but have more work to do, Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett said in a statement.

Still, the drop is a relief to officials and public health advocates following the startling news that the rate had hit 16 percent in 2013. The city has since run somber new antismoking ads, and health officials say they believe the city's efforts generally have been working despite the 2013 upturn.

The national smoking rate also has been declining, hitting 17 percent of adults last year. Democratic New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced in June that the state adult smoking rate had hit a low of 14.5 percent.

The city's rate was 22 percent

in 2002, when then-Mayor Michael Bloomberg began leading a charge to stub out smoking.

During his 12 years in office, the city imposed the nation's highest cigarette taxes; banned smoking in bars, parks and even beaches; and voted to raise the minimum tobacco-buying age to 21. The city also produced graphic antismoking ads featuring pictures of smoke-damaged internal organs, amputated limbs and other smok-

ing-related health complications.

After the smoking rates went up in 2013, Bassett, appointed by Democratic current Mayor Bill de Blasio, said last year she believed budget cutbacks following the 2008 financial crisis had hampered the city's effectiveness in fighting tobacco use. The city had reined in television advertising and some other efforts to help people quit. -AP

Sewing Guild creates snugglers for babies KOKOMO, Ind.: Babies born at St. Vincent Kokomo and Community Howard Regional Health during the month of December will sleep a little easier thanks to the Kokomo chapter of the American Sewing Guild.

Many of the guild's members were on hand taking part in the project, which is encouraged by the American Sewing Guild. Past projects have included hosting free Teaching Another Generation sewing classes for children in the Eastern Howard School Corporation, sewing school uniforms for children in Africa and creating Angel Gowns for the families of babies who died at area hospitals.

The sewing guild partners with the Hospital Cheer Guild to create the snugglers, which keep babies insulated through a co-

coon-like design equipped with Velcro. The snugglers, which each require about a yard of fabric, are used in a similar fashion as a receiving blanket and are noted for keeping babies warm without the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. ``We are very glad to do that in the community,'' sewing guild special project coordinator Karen Lopke said. ``We've been working on them since August and we'll get them ready for them to have

by November.''

The guild has a long history in Kokomo dating back 32 years, with some of its founding members still involved.

They meet at 6:30 p.m. on the second Monday of each month, where a program offering advice on new sewing techniques is hosted. Members also bring in

their completed projects during show-and-tell sessions, Sewing Guild President Pat Skillington said. ``Typically we have about 25 to 30 ladies who come every month,''

Skillington said. ``We have a program every month about sewing or something needed in the community that we help with.''

Charter member Mary Ann Peabody said she was happy to

Bernadette "Bernie" Morris and Esther Givens use patterns to guide them while the cut material to make snugglers. The Kokomo Chapter of the American Sewing Guild will donate the snugglers to Kokomo's hospitals.

provide the snugglers to local hospitals and still enjoys coming to the sewing guild's meetings after 32 years. ``I think it's wonderful that we've been asked to do these things, because there is a need and we can fill it,'' she said.

In addition to providing a service to the community, the guild has offered camaraderie members look forward to rekindling at each of their monthly meetings. ``Just getting together with my friends and going out to eat afterward is the fun part,'' said Lydia Barnard, who was the guild's first president. ``Sometimes you just go to have fun. I have never regretted one minute of belonging to the sewing guild.'' -AP

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September 25, 2015

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Air pollution kills 3.3 million worldwide WASHINGTON: Air pollution is killing 3.3 million people a year worldwide, according to a new study that includes this surprise: Farming plays a large role in smog and soot deaths in industrial nations.

Scientists in Germany, Cyprus, Saudi Arabia and Harvard University calculated the most detailed estimates yet of the toll of air pollution, looking at what caused it. The study also projects that if trends don't change, the yearly death total will double to about 6.6 million a year by 2050.

The study, published in the journal Nature, used health statistics and computer models. About three quarters of the deaths are from strokes and heart attacks, said lead author Jos Lelieveld at the Max Planck Institute for Chemistry in Germany.

The findings are similar to other less detailed pollution death estimates, outside experts said.

"About 6 percent of all global deaths each occur prematurely due to exposure to ambient air pollution. This number is higher than most experts would have expected, say, 10 years ago," said Jason West, a University of North Carolina environmental

sciences professor who wasn't part of the study but praised it.

Air pollution kills more than HIV and malaria combined, Lelieveld said.

With nearly 1.4 million deaths a year, China has the most air pollution fatalities,

Smoking may put you at higher tooth loss risk BERLIN: Heavy and regular smokers have a significantly increased risk of tooth loss, according to a new study that found smoking can hide the effects of gum disease.

Male smokers are up to 3.6 times more likely to lose their teeth than non-smokers, whereas female smokers were found to be 2.5 times more likely, researchers said.

The research is the output of a long-term longitudinal study in Germany carried out by researchers at the University of Birmingham and the German Institute of Human Nutrition.

followed by India with 645,000 and Pakistan with 110,000.

The United States, with 54,905 deaths in 2010 from soot and smog, ranks seventh highest for air pollution deaths.

What's unusual is that the study says that agriculture caused 16,221 of those deaths, second only to 16,929 deaths blamed on power plants. -PTI

"Most teeth are lost as a result of either caries (tooth decay) or chronic periodontitis (gum disease)," said lead author Thomas Dietrich, from the University of Birmingham.

"We know that smoking is a strong risk factor for periodontitis, so that may go a long way towards explaining the higher rate of tooth loss in smokers," said Dietrich.

Smoking can mask gum bleeding, a key

symptom of periodontitis. As a result, the gums of a smoker can appear to be healthier than they actually are.

"It's really unfortunate that smoking can hide the effects of gum disease as people often don't see the problem until it is quite far down the line," Dietrich said.

"The good news is that quitting smoking can reduce the risk fairly quickly. Eventually, an ex-smoker would have the same risk for tooth loss as someone who had never smoked, although this can take more than ten years," he said.

"Gum disease and consequential tooth loss may be the first noticeable effect on a smoker's health," said Kolade Oluwagbemigun, from the German Institute of Human Nutrition.

"Therefore, it might give people the motivation to quit before the potential onset of a lifethreatening condition such as lung disease or lung cancer," Oluwagbemigun said.

The findings were independent of other risk factors such as diabetes, and are based on data from 23,376 participants which aimed to evaluate the associations between smoking, smoking cessation and tooth loss in three different age groups.

The association between smoking and tooth loss was stronger among younger people than in the older groups.

The results clearly demonstrated that the association was dose-dependent; heavy smokers had higher risk of losing their teeth than smokers who smoked fewer cigarettes.

The study was published in the Journal of Dental Research. -PTI

Virginia scales back abortion clinic regulations Cont'd from Page 48

``Decisions made by the board should be based on medical evidence, not politics, religious beliefs or ideology,'' said Dr. Jessica DeMay, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist.

The packed meeting room was divided between abortion-rights supporters and opponents, but the former dominated the hour-long public comment period by being first in line to sign up to speak.

Other than Cox, the only abortion opponent who was able to speak before time ran out was Frances Bouton. ``How can politics obscure the reality of brutal dismemberment of our youngest brothers and sisters?'' Bouton asked, ripping the limbs off a small plastic doll to illustrate her point.

Two Virginia abortion clinics have closed since the regulations were approved

in 2011, citing the new rules as one of the reasons. Another has announced it is closing at the end of the month because the owner is retiring, leaving 17 clinics.

The regulations address issues such as sanitation methods, drug storage and handling, and ensuring that minors obtain parental consent for an abortion. Most of the disagreement, though, has been over the new-hospital building standards that cover things like hallway widths and covered entrances.

One significant amendment would strike a requirement that clinics have hospital transfer agreements to handle complications.

Supporters of the change said such agreements aren't necessary because emergency rooms are legally required to treat patients.

McDonnell appointees proposed several amendments of their own to toughen the regulations, but those proposals were narrowly rejected. -AP

September 25, 2015

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Things to know about the flu shot: Lots of options this year WASHINGTON: Give flu vaccine another chance: This year's version got a recipe change that should make it more effective after last winter's misery from a nasty surprise strain of virus.

Don't let a fear of needles stop you. Beyond the traditional shots, the squeamish for the first time could try a needle-free injection, or choose the nasal spray or tiny skin-deep needles that have been around for a while.

All told, at least 171 million doses of flu vaccine are expected this year. ``It doesn't matter which flu vaccine you get, just get one,'' Dr. Tom Frieden, director

els in the U.S., Frieden said. ``So far, the strains in this year's vaccine seem likely to match,'' Frieden said in an interview, stressing that CDC is closely monitoring genetic fluctuations to see if that changes.

Still, ``flu is fickle,'' said Dr. William Schaffner of Vanderbilt University and the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases.

The vaccine protects against three or four different strains, depending on the brand, Schaffner noted, saying that even if one strain mutates, vaccination remains ``the best defense against flu.''

Some things to know about flu vaccinations:

W H O SHOULD BE VACCINATED Everybody starting at 6 months of age, the CDC says.

Flu is especially dangerous for people over age 65, young children, pregnant women and people with Enters for Disease Control and Prevention Director Dr. Tom Frieden, right, receives a flu shot from nurse B.K. Morris during an event about the flu chronic health vaccine, at the National Press Club in Washington. conditions such as asthma or of the Centers for Disease Control and Pre- heart disease. But healthy young people vention, said before rolling up his own can get seriously ill, too, as well as spread sleeve for a regular shot. the disease.

Last fall and winter marked ``a bad year CDC said last year, at least 145 children for flu,'' Frieden acknowledged, as a mu- died of flu, above the yearly average of 100, tated strain of Type A flu began spreading a number Frieden called an underestimate. widely after the vaccine doses already were Only about half of children who die from brewed. flu have underlying health problems, noted The H3N2 flu subtype always is harsh, Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson of Seattle especially for older adults, and the vaccine Children's Hospital. was only 13 percent effective against the mutated version that caused most of last WHO GETS VACCINATED year's illnesses, he said. Typically, flu vacOnly about half of Americans get an ancine is 50 percent to 60 percent effective. nual flu immunization. CDC says on averFlu-related hospitalizations of seniors last age, flu kills about 24,000 people a year in year were the highest recorded in the de- the U.S. cade that CDC has counted.

New CDC data shows vaccination rates That same H3N2 strain still is circulat- last year were highest for children ages 6 ing in other countries and even in low lev- months to 23 months _ at 75 percent, the

Yoga guru offers Ayurvedic remedy for dengue NEW DELHI: As Delhi grapples with dengue, Yoga guru Ramdev claimed that Ayurvedic products can increase the platelet count in patients suffering from the vectorborne fever faster than allopathic medicines.

He advocated the use of medicinal herbs such as giloy and aloe vera to counter the virus, which has affected over 2,000 people in the national capital.

He was speaking at a press conference on treatment of dengue through Ayurveda, where products from his firm 'Patanjali Ayurved' were presented.

"Having juice made of giloy leaves, aloe vera, papaya leaves and pomegranate not

only increases platelet count but also increases overall immunity of the body. Having goat or cow milk slightly help as well, but in case of their non-availability, one need not worry," he said.

On suggestions that he was trying to market his products at a time when people are in a state of panic over cases of dengue, he said, "Did I for once take the name of any product? I was merely endorsing natural remedies."

On the lack of any third party endorsement for his products, Ramdev said it was not needed as he had "first hand evidence". -PTI

only age group to meet public health goals.

Children ages 2 to 4 weren't far behind, at 68 percent, and 62 percent of 5- to 12-yearolds were vaccinated.

About two-thirds of seniors were vaccinated. But only about a third of adults ages 18 to 49 were, making them the least protected group.

About half of pregnant women get immunized, important not only for mom's health but because the vaccine also protects her baby during its first six months of life, Swanson noted.

WHEN TO GET VACCINATED About 40 million of this year's doses already have been shipped to doctors, drugstores and other locations, and vaccinations are under way. It takes about two weeks for protection to kick in, and while flu typically peaks between December and February, there's no way to predict when outbreaks will begin.

THE COST Most are covered by private and government health insurance, often without a co-pay. For those paying out of pocket, prices can range between $32 and $40.

WHICH KIND TO CHOOSE One option this year is a needle -free device called a jet injector that forces the vaccine into a stream of fluid that penetrates the skin. It is recommended for adults 18 to 64. The CDC said it can result in some of

the same soreness as a traditional shot.

The nasal spray is the most widely known alternative to the traditional shot, and can be used by healthy people ages 2 to 49.

Other choices are targeted to different age groups and health conditions and include the ``intradermal'' or skin-deep shots that use tiny needles; a version for people allergic to the chicken eggs used in brewing most flu vaccine; and a high-dose version for people 65 and older, whose immune systems typically don't respond as robustly to flu vaccine as younger people's.

TOWARD A BETTER VACCINE The vaccine is changed yearly to keep up as influenza viruses mutate, and production takes months. It protects against two Type A strains _ H3N2 and the H1N1 subtype, such as the swine flu so common a few years ago _ plus either one or two milder Type B strains, depending on the brand.

CDC is working with manufacturers to cut vaccine production time, giving more time to spot it if a mutation is forming, Frieden said.

The bigger goal is to create a ``universal vaccine'' that could work on many flu strains. Last month, researchers reported a small step toward that goal by targeting vaccines to a slightly different spot on the flu virus. But Frieden cautions that more broadly effective flu vaccines are ``a few years away at best.'' -AP

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Philosophy

September 25, 2015

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L

ord Buddha rejected the erroneous belief that man is destined to go through suffering according to the karma of the past. This belief destroyed human effort and made man the creature of foolish fate. Therefore the Buddha rejected it as unworthy of acceptance. It was a despicable doctrine that taught man to depend on the past and on some imaginary Creator.

Equally did the Buddha despise the materialistic doctrine that made man to hold to the nihilistic idea of incontinuity of cause and effect. The result of the threefold teaching may be seen in the people who accept them. Effort is the basis of karma.

Even the effort to think is karma.

Good efforts produce good karma, bad efforts produce bad karma.

Every thought is dependent on a previous thought. We go to sleep in the night and mind is in sleep, but is still active in dreams.

Man being immortal and spiritual no Creator is needed. Creation means a known beginning, but in Buddhism it is a fundamental doctrine that man has no known beginning.

We admit gods but we decline to make autocrats of them, which has been the curse of humanity. In countries where monarchs are despotic and absolute power is divided between the monarch and the priesthood, the people have to obey and suffer.

MATA AMRITANANDAMAYI

I

t is said that, "The seed is Brahmn, the Supreme. The tree is also Brahmn." But, the seed cannot bestow the benefits - the shade and fruits - that the tree can.

In order to do so, it must go underground, break out of its shell, sprout and grow into a tree. If it egoistically refuses to submit to the earth, thinking that everything is contained in itself, the seed will not become a tree.

It will probably be eaten by a rat. Likewise, if we arrogantly think, "Everything is in me. Why should I bow down to anyone?" we will never be able to realize God. We will remain trapped in samsara, the cycle of birth and death.

When the seed sprouts and grows into a sapling, a fence must be built around it to prevent goats and cows from eating it. It must be nourished with enough water. It must be given enough shade so that it does not wilt.

However, once it becomes a tree, then one need not tend to it anymore. One can even tether an elephant to it. Likewise, until we attain the goal, the fence of yamas and niyamas and the shade of a guru are necessary. Once we have

The Buddha combated the supremacy of the muddleheaded gods, showed them that they too are under the law of cause and effect, that some day their habitations are destroyed, and that they too shall have to change their positions.

A permanent god with human attributes to sit on an eternal throne is an impossibility. In the Brahmanimantanika sutta of the Majjhima nikaya, Baka Brahma, sitting on the throne in the highest

said "Brahma has gone into the net of Ignorance". In the sutra, Mara the Buddhist Satan appears among the gods and pleads on behalf of Brahma and tells Buddha not to speak disparagingly of Brahma for he is the Creator, the Chief, the Father of all.

The Buddha rebukes Mara, and begins the conversation with Brahma, who is tested by the Buddha by asking him to work a miracle and Brahma fails. When illuminating wisdom came to Bud-

from speaking the truth, and the man who attempts to represent Truth is soon brought into his senses by persecution or by imprisonment in gaol. A nation that is politically not free, and is under the rule of another could not expect to produce heroes.

Jesus was born of a subject race, and he had to be on his guard when speaking to the people. The answers he gave were those of a diplomatist.

The priests were ever ready to

A creative man is moti-

Man being immortal & spiritual, no Creator is needed

vated by the desire to achieve, not by the desire to beat others.

-Ayn Rand

The Buddha combated the supremacy of the muddleheaded gods, showed them that they

It does not matter how

too are under the law of cause and effect, that

slowly you go as long as

some day their habitations are destroyed

you do not stop.

-Confucius

Anagarika Dharmapala

heaven gave vent to the thought "Here is permanency, here is the uncreated, beyond, there is none".

The Buddha having known what was going on in the mind of Brahma ascended to the heaven and appeared before Brahma. The god greeted him and said "Here is permanency, here is eternity, here is bliss, here there is no birth, no death, no decay, and there is no beyond". The Buddha thereupon

dha He taught the way to the Brahmacharis to destroy ignorance and realize the highest emancipation of Nirvana where the gods and the devils have no power.

When a nation is politically dependent on another nation the weaker nation loses its individuality. A subject race could not produce heroes, and truth is born from the sacrifice made by the truly great. A slavish race is prevented

implicate him as a political demagogue and a disturber of the people working to upset the government of the Roman oligarchy.

No truth can come out of the man who is not absolutely free to express his highest convictions.

Excerpted from 'The Constructive Optimism of Buddhism.' The 151st birth anniversary of Anagarika Dharmapala was observed on September 17

realized the Truth, we will do only good to the world. Nothing will bind us. We can progress towards the supreme goal only if we can break out from the shell of ego, the 'I' sense.

At present, ours is like a journey based on a map. From the map, we know that if we take a particu-

one who has travelled along that route accompanies us, we can set out courageously.

However, it is not enough to find such a person; we must trust him, too. Only then can we travel with confidence. If we doubt him, we will have no peace of mind. In the same way, only one who has

our heart to the guru.

Only then can he fill our heart.

In order to do so, we must renounce the ego and cultivate an attitude of surrender.

Just as moisture causes a seed to sprout, and just as the warmth of a mother hen causes an egg to hatch, in order to realize the Self,

Don't watch the clock; do what it does. Keep going.

-Sam Levenson Your talent is God's gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God. -Leo Buscaglia Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.

-Thomas A. Edison

Until we attain the goal, shade of guru is necessary

There is only one corner of the universe you can be certain of improving,

The guru is trying to take the disciple to the

and that's your own self.

goal as soon as possible. If we just read

-Aldous Huxley

books, we will not reach the goal. We must

Optimism is the faith that

put into practice what we have read.

Mata Amritanandamayi

lar route, we will reach a particular destination. However, we have no practical experience of it; we lack knowledge of ground realities. We do not know if the conditions are conducive for travel.

There might be wild beasts or armed robbers on the way. The roads might not be good. If some-

known the Truth can lead us to it.

Only he can advice us when the need arises. We must have total faith in such a guru. The guru is trying to take the disciple to the goal as soon as possible. If we just read books, we will not reach the goal. We must put into practice what we have read. We must open

the shell of the ego must break.

For this, the water of the guru's grace and the heat of discipline are necessary. The real guru is within us, but we do not realize this because of the ego.

The 62nd birth anniversary of Mata Amritanandamayi will be celebrated on September 27

leads to achievement.

Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.

-Helen Keller The secret of getting ahead is getting started.

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US, China and Iran: A balancing act

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KIMBERLEY ANNE NAZARETH

W

hat impact will the nuclear agreement signed between Iran and P5+1 countries have on US-China and Iran-China relations? The implications for future relations between the US and Iran as well as US and West Asia are complex. To add to this, what is the role of China in this scenario?

The US, China and Iran are considered powerful powers that are vying for greater influence not only with respect to their region, but to expand their influence beyond it. This has created complications not only for them but neighboring States as well. The US is apprehensive of China's rise and its close ties with Iran and with West Asia. China on the other had has to weigh its interests in favoring either the US or Iran.

Striking a balance

tions. However, over a period of time and with international pressure especially from the US, China yielded. The US sanctioned Chinese companies that traded with Iran which was the final step that forced the Chinese to yield. This delayed and forced response added to Sino-US tensions.

Though Beijing has cooperated with the US and other P5 countries in the negotiations with Iran, the western powers are still doubtful of Beijing's intentions. Although the deal has been accomplished, to what extent it will be a success remains to be seen.

Convergences The three are mutually dependent on each other in dealing with international issues including nuclear proliferation and terrorism.

The US and China see eye-to-eye on monitoring and inspections of Iran's declared and possibly un-

port it. However this could create a backlash for Sino-US relations.

The three powers - the US, Iran and China - have to therefore seek an optimum balance. The US for instance will never, at least in the near future, admit to getting help from Iran in their fight against the IS, even though it could be a point of convergence. However, what would the US have to forgo as part of the partnership?

Future balance In the future, balancing is not going to be easy for either party.

The close relationship between Tehran and Beijing should not interfere in the 'Cold War' between Beijing and Washington and spill out into West Asia. There is a possibility of this happening as the standing power of Tehran increases in the Persian Gulf.

The US has to tread carefully with Iran as it could sideline its

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry (front, center) sits between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (left) and French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius (right) at the United Nations Headquarters after the P5+1 nations reached an interim nuclear deal with Iran in Geneva, Switzerland, on November 24, 2013

The success of President Obama's policy of engaging with Iran hinged on getting the Iranian leadership as well as the international community on board. The former only agreed with the election of Hasan Rouhani in 2013 and the latter took the form of P5+1.

The Iranians made matters difficult especially when it came to IAEA inspections. The US found it equally difficult at first to get China, Russia and India on board on the issue of imposing sanctions on Iran.

China's strategic relations with Iran could have been jeopardized by the oil embargo and the sanc-

declared nuclear activities. The Chinese and US negotiators are comfortable with any nuclear deal that pushes back Iran's ability to build a bomb. Iran and China as well as the US are deeply invested in the fight against the Islamic State (IS) and in Afghanistan.

These two problems have the capability of creating further regional imbalances that will affect all. The Chinese are caught in the middle, with Iran on one side and the US on the other. Some favor maintaining close relations with the Iran, partly based on their belief that Iran will view China's rise as non-threatening and will sup-

allies in West Asia, especially Saudi Arabia and Israel. For Iran, balancing may not be as much of a problem as they are the major party that the other is trying to balance with. The stakes are high for Obama, especially given his support for the deal with Iran, which has detractors both domestically and internationally.

China appears to be in a better position. If things go awry, Iran, on the other hand, will incur the wrath of the US, hostile Gulf countries and Israel.

The writer is PhD Scholar, School of International Studies, JNU

Reservations row

I

n a record of sorts, 23 lakh people recently applied for 368 posts of peons in the Uttar Pradesh government. Among the applicants were more than 150,000 graduates, 24,969 postgraduates, and even 250 doctorates! Nothing highlights better the unemployment problem in India. Also, of the 368 posts, 100 are reserved for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and other reserved categories.

When the VP Singh government in 1990 introduced reservations by accepting the Mandal Commission report, there were spontaneous protests by young people fearing threats to their job prospects. Some of them even committed suicide. Since then, the need for reservations has been generally accepted although many sections felt deprived. These deprived sections have been emboldened by the promises of development made by the Narendra Modi government and they want the fruits of this development now, although the process of development by Modi has just been initiated. Since manufacturing and industry in the private sector were not encouraged by the previous Congress governments, there are not enough jobs available in this sector.

On the other hand, the process of employment in government sectors has been skewed by the reservation factor. Crying enough is enough, the deprived middle class has raised its banner of revolt. Led by a 22-year old in Gujarat, they are now demanding reservations for a better off community like Patels.

The message here is give us also a slice of the growing reservations pie or scrap reservations altogether. This development could not have been more ill-timed for the BJP on the eve of the Bihar elections where leaders like Lalu Yadav have fattened on the caste reservations principle.

Adding fuel to the fire was the statement by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat calling for formation of a committee to decide which categories require reservations and for how long. Although he did not ask for scrapping of reservations a controversy has erupted that the Government, led by BJP, which allegedly toes the RSS line, wants to tinker with the policy of reservations for the scheduled castes etc. This suspicion, being given full ballast by the foes of Modi in the JD (U) alliance in Bihar, has become a tool in the hands of vested interests opposing the development agenda of the government.

Indeed it has been clarified that Mohan Bhagwat did not say the reservations should end. He only highlighted the need to ensure reservations reached those who need them. This is fair enough.

But the die has been cast and this row is mounting with the Patels leader in Gujarat trying everyday to up the ante.

The timing of the agitation in Gujarat also arouses suspicion that it could have been an inside job by opponents of Modi from within the BJP. It is also being alleged that the massive agitation is inspired by the RSS as collecting half a million people for his rally last month was beyond the organising capabilities of 22-year old Hardik Patel.

The answer to agitations by the middle class or the historically deprived classes by Narendra Modi is development. But he has been power only one and a half years and the schemes he has initiated will take time to bear fruit. Meanwhile agitations like that of Hardik Patel or those of other middle class groups wanting to join him will only set back the process that Modi has initiated.

Although the comments of the RSS chief are above board, could he not have avoided them considering the charged political atmosphere in Bihar at this moment? His comments have made things more difficult for the BJP which wants to badly win Bihar in order to proclaim to the country that the programs initiated by it are the best solution for all.

Playing safe, the government has declared it is not in favor of making any change in the existing reservation policy. It is not known if this will defuse the crisis.

September 25, 2015

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