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Shreya Ghosal captivates Chicagoans Details on page 24
Firm linked to Sahai's brother loses coal block
VOL 18, No. 941
September 28, 2012
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FBI URGED TO TRACK ANTI-SIKH CRIMES
WASHINGTON: The son of a massacre victim at a Sikh temple in Wisconsin has asked the Obama administration to begin collecting statistics on hate crimes against Sikhs. Harpreet Singh Saini, 18, told a Senate hearing he wanted to give his late mother "the dignity of being a statistic." Saini's mother, Paramjit Kaur Saini, was among six people killed and four wounded by a gunman on Aug. 5 before a service was to begin at the temple in Oak Creek, Wis. The shooter, Wade Michael Page, was shot during a firefight with police and died after he shot himself in the head.
More than 400 people, many of them wearing the traditional Sikh turbans, attended the hearing - a crowd so large that an overflow room had to be used. Sen. Richard Durbin, D-Ill, chairman of the Judiciary subcommittee, said he supported Saini's request and told a Justice Department witness that the government was moving too slowly on requests for the data collection. He noted that Sikh communities have been asking for these statistics for two years. Details on page 5
Mixed response to Opposition’s Bharat Bandh Details on page 8
Forbes rich list has 5 Indian Americans Details on page 21
Indian techie hacked into Toyota's network
Details on page 21 Details on page 7
Anna Hazare snaps ties with Arvind Kejriwal
Indian couple can meet son once a week
Details on page 7 Details on page 7
Salman Rushdie condemns anti-Islam film
CONTENTS Bollywood ---------------------- 34-35 Classifieds ------------------------- 47 Community Post -------------- 12-19
Details on page 6
Date Book -------------------------- 46 Edit Page --------------------------- 49
INDIA POST SURVEY
HealthScience Post --------- 36-39
survey@indiapost.com
Horoscope ------------------------- 20
This week’s question
Immigration Post ------------- 40-42
US govt dragging feet on anti-Sikh crimes?
Life Style ----------------------- 24-27 Philosophy ------------------------- 48
Last week’s result
Should the Federal govt follow Gov Brown’s initiative? YES 46%
NO 54%
Publisher’s Diary ------------------ 4
THE NOBEL TWO: President Barack Obama meets with Myanmar democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi in the Oval Office of the White House, September 19 in Washington. (Details on page 6)
Real Estate -------------------- 43-45 TechBiz Post ------------------- 20-23 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 29-31
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Publisher’s Diary
T
he Occupy Wall Street movement is one year old. On September 17, on the movement's first anniversary, the occupiers converged once again at Zuccotti Park on Wall Street. Many were promptly hauled away by the NYPD and the rest, left without direction, simply dispersed. It's disappointing though that in one year, the movement has not managed to bring about any change in the way Wall Street operates or for that matter, the way the government falls in line with it. For the first time in decades Americans had actually come down to the streets to protest against the big corporations. We must give it to ourselves for the respect we have for democratic norms. Elsewhere in the world anti-establishment agitations rarely remain peaceful. The Occupiers have not only exercised their rights as citizens of a democracy but have largely followed the rule of law. But somehow, the movement which caught the imagination of social media savvy youth the world over when it was first launched, failed to sustain its momentum and numbers. Beginning with winter setting in, to losing the sympathy of an extremely cynical mainstream media and an apathetic society at large, the Occupy movement was unable to garner mass primarily because of the shallow nature of social media. But more than anything, what fails the movement is the anti-socialist propaganda in America that has for over a century, demonized anything that remotely challenges the American big business - injecting into the psyche of Americans, that to oppose the capitalists necessarily means a takeover by communists. It is heartening to see that the core idea of the Occupy movement is not dead, but the medium on the back of which it is being carried, is not mature enough. I am talking about social media. Typical of such a medium of communication, the Occupy movement is a level playing virtual field with no leaders. Much as I trust grassroots people's movements, I am not convinced about the people who inhabit the virtual world of social media. Because real world problems need real leaders and real sacrifices.
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Bollywood: Single & lonely High on the success of Barfi!, Ranbir Kapoor has decided to talk about what he really shares with Katrina Kaif.
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Cover Story: Anti-Sikh crimes The son of a massacre victim at a Sikh temple has asked the US to begin collecting statistics on hate crimes against Sikhs.
Community: Job fair IACS has announced holding its third annual job fair at Hotel Hilton in Chicago downtown on October 17.
Health: Health care law Gov. Phil Bryant and other Mississippi residents were premature in their challenge to the health care law, a judge has ruled.
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Travel: Darjeeling Every morning as the sun rises Darjeeling offers bird's eye views of the grand mountains of the Himalayas.
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FBI urged to track anti-Sikh crimes WASHINGTON: The son of a massacre victim at a Sikh temple in Wisconsin has asked the Obama administration to begin collecting statistics on hate crimes against Sikhs. Harpreet Singh Saini, 18, told a Senate hearing he wanted to give his late mother "the dignity of being a statistic." Saini's mother, Paramjit Kaur Saini, was among six people killed and four wounded by a gunman on Aug. 5 before a service was to begin at the temple in Oak Creek, Wis. The shooter, Wade Michael Page, was shot during a firefight with police and died after he shot himself in the head. More than 400 people, many of them wearing the traditional Sikh turbans, attended the hearing - a crowd so large that an overflow room had to be used. Sen. Richard Durbin, D-Ill, chairman of the Judiciary subcommittee, said he supported Saini's request and told a Justice Department witness that the government was moving too slowly on requests for the data collection. He noted that Sikh communities have been asking for these statistics for two years. Roy Austin Jr., an official of the department's civil rights division, said the agency will bring together
Harpreet Singh Saini is sworn in before testifying about his mother, Paramjit Kaur, who was killed in the attack that left six Sikh worshipers dead on Capitol Hill
a wide array of religious groups in October and make recommendations to the FBI on whether the data collection should be expanded to include hate crimes against Sikhs. "The Department of Justice has heard this concern," he said. "We are going to take action." Austin said the FBI's crime reporting program, which collects information from law enforcement
agencies on hate crimes, reported 6,628 incidents in 2010 - the latest figures available. He added the government doesn't know the real number of hate crimes because the FBI can only track crimes that are reported. He said some 13,000 law enforcement agencies reported no hate crimes in 2010 and 3,000 others did not respond to a hate crime survey.
Saini, a college freshman, said he was 10 years old when his parents brought him and his brother to the United States in 2004. "This was not supposed to be our American story," he said. "This was not my mother's dream." In emotional testimony Saini, wearing a turban, said that two days after his mother died, he and his brother ate the leftovers she
made in her last meal. He added that his mother never had the chance to get a formal education because she had to work long hours to feed her family. "I just had my first day of college. And my mother wasn't there to send me off," Saini said. He also questioned why the government never took action against Page, the shooter, because groups concerned with hate crimes had him on their watch lists. Durbin asked an FBI witness, counterintelligence official Michael Clancy, "Was there a breakdown in intelligence here? Was he being tracked by our intelligence community? Were there any warnings to the Sikh community?" Clancy responded, "We did not have a case opened on him. His activities had not risen to level where we would be able, under the attorney general's guidelines, to open an investigation. "We were aware of him as a peripheral figure. But he never emerged as more than that. He engaged in a lot of hate speech ... not against the law." Clancy added that the FBI had no information that Page posed a threat to any group.-AP
US House resolution condemns Senate committee hearing on hate crimes commended killing of Sikhs India Post News Service
WASHINGTON: The United States House of Representatives on September 13 passed by unanimous consent House Resolution 775, a legislation condemning the horrific massacre that killed six Sikh worshippers and priests at a gurudwara in Oak Creek, Wiscon-
In the days following this horrific attack, I vowed to pass a resolution condemning it the week Congress reconvened. I applaud Representative Ryan for drafting it and working to see that it came to the floor: Ed Royce sin on August 5. Congressman Ed Royce, California Republican and co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, was the
point man in securing the support of his fellow lawmakers in securing the bill's passage. He was also the original co-sponsor of the legislation, who had pledged to work to quickly bring the bill to the floor for a vote. Royce praised the bill's quick passage just three days after it was introduced. The resolution was introduced by Congressman Paul Ryan, Wisconsin Republican and the GOP vice presidential running mate to Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney. Royce, a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said, "In the days following this horrific attack, I vowed to pass a resolution condemning it the week Congress reconvened. I applaud Representative Ryan for drafting it and working to see that it came to the floor." "With its passage, the US House of Representatives has now made an important statement," he said. Royce spoke of how "horrified" he was "by the shootings,
which unfolded in a place of worship - women, children, elderly all present." Royce said, "Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work closely with the Sikh community, which has made countless contributions to our country". He acknowledged, "This resolution might not ease the pain of those affected by this tragedy, but it does display our commitment to religious tolerance, to show that we denounce hateinspired violence." "Every American should be treated with respect and dignity, and safe in their place of worship. This resolution reaffirms that there is no tolerance in our country for such terrorist acts of bigotry," he added.-Agencies
WASHINGTON: The Senate Judiciary Committee's Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights and Human Rights held a
hearing on "Hate Crimes and the Threat of Domestic Extremism." Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA32), Chair of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), submitted written testimony for the hearing and released the following statement:
"In the wake of 9/11, hysteria and violence targeted at Sikh, Muslim, Arab, and South Asian Americans spiked sharply, resulting in hundreds of hate crimes and cases of bullying, vandalism, and intimidation. The recent tragedy in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, was a heartbreaking example of these unrelenting and unprovoked attacks. Each new incident moves us further and further away from the values of religious freedom and acceptance on which our great nation was founded. "That is why I am grateful to Senator Durbin and Senator Leahy for holding this timely hearing. I also commend the dedicated community leaders and activists who fought to call attention to these stories at the national level. Together, we must move forward with meaningful solutions to end this disturbing trend of scapegoating and intolerance."
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Aung San Suu Kyi receives Congressional gold medal WASHINGTON: Visiting Myanmar's opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi received here the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal, a rare honor bestowed to any foreign leader by the US administration. The National League for Democracy leader also met President Barack Obama on a day when the US lifted additional sanctions on Myanmar. "This is one of the most moving days of my life, to be here in a house undivided, a house joined together to welcome a stranger from a distant land. This is a moment for which I have been waiting for many years," Suu Kyi said moments after receiving the honor. An emotional Suu Kyi also addressed a gathering of top American lawmakers, in which Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and former First Lady Laura Bush was present. In her Congressional Gold Medal acceptance speech Suu Kyi said it has always been her opinion that democracy offers the best balance between freedom and security for all. "To be a full human being, we need both security and freedom. Without security, we cannot rest in peace necessary to discover the world to be the beautiful place that it can be. Without freedom we will be deprived of the opportunities that will make us more human and more humane," she said. Aung Min, Representative from President of Myanmar, and country's new Ambassador Than
Myanmar democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi (C) receives Congressional Gold Medal from Speaker of House John Boehner, at U.S. Capitol
Swe were also present at the ceremony. "It's almost too delicious to believe, my friend, that you are here in the Rotunda of our great Capitol, the centerpiece of our democracy as an elected member of your Parliament, as the leader of the political opposition, the leader of a political party," Clinton said in her remarks on the occasion. "I am so deeply moved by what she has stood for and what she has represented, first and foremost for the people of her country, but for people everywhere who
Laura Bush, who had been a supporter of Suu Kyi and her efforts during the previous Bush Administration, said that the transition in Myanmar, like past events in South Africa or Eastern Europe, shows that history has a hopeful direction
yearn for freedom, whose voices deserve to be heard," she said. Terming her "an advocate, a symbol and an icon" Clinton praised Suu Kyi for not getting "satisfied" upon her release from house arrest. Laura Bush, who had been a supporter of Suu Kyi and her efforts during the previous Bush Administration, said that the transition in Myanmar, like past events in South Africa or Eastern Europe, shows that history has a hopeful direction. "It's capable of miracles. There is a part of every soul that longs
for freedom. And any government built on oppression is built on sand," she said. "One of the most repressive governments on earth attempted to isolate and silence one woman. It must have seemed an easy task. Instead, the regime encountered an immovable object and its legitimacy broke against her character," Bush said. Suu Kyi later had her first face to face meeting with Obama, during which the US President welcomed democratic transition in Myanmar, the White House said. "The President reaffirmed the determination of the US to support their sustained efforts to promote political and economic reforms and to ensure full protection of the fundamental rights of the people of Myanmar," it said. In the meeting, Obama expressed his conviction that the ongoing process of reconciliation and reform will offer people of that nation an opportunity to take charge of their destiny and to shape a more peaceful, free, and prosperous future. Earlier in the day, the Obama Administration lifted sanctions against the Myanmar President Thein Sein and Lower House of Parliament Speaker Thura Shwe Mann by removing their names from the list of Specially Designated Nationals (SDN). This provides them access to property and assets and allows them to carry transactions involving US persons or in the United States, the Department of Treasury said. -PTI
Rushdie condemns anti-Islam film as 'malicious' NEW YORK: India-born author Salman Rushdie has termed as "malicious" the attempt by an American to produce a film, deemed offensive to Islam, that sparked protests across the globe, saying the filmmaker tried to "provoke" people. 65-year-old Rushdie, who has
done something malicious, and that is a very different thing from writing a serious novel. He is clearly set out to provoke, and he is obviously unleashed a much bigger reaction than he hoped for," Rushdie told the Today show. "One of the problems with defending free speech is you often have to deCommenting on the surge of fend people that you violence against the film that find to be outrageous and unpleasant and has gripped countries disgusting," Rushdie across the world, particularly told the show. Commenting on the in the Middle East, Rushdie surge of violence said he does not have any against the film that sympathy for the filmmaker has gripped countries across the world, parbeen an advocate of free speech ticularly in the Middle East, and defending it in the face of op- Rushdie said he does not have position, said the intentions of any sympathy for the filmmaker the film are very different from "because he did it on purpose. He what he has written in his books. set out to create a response, and "I think he (the filmmaker) has he got it in spades." -PTI
Muslim demonstrators during a protest against an anti-Islam film, near the U.S. Consulate in Chennai
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Hazare's decision to snap ties shocking: Kejriwal NEW DELHI: Arvind Kejriwal has described Anna Hazare's decision to snap ties with the propolitics group in the anti-corruption movement as "shocking and unbelievable" and said the veteran activist's principles will be the foundation of their party. "We respect Anna Hazare, he is our guru and father. "The developments came as a complete surprise. It was shocking, unbelievable, unfortunate and sad," Kejriwal told reporters here after a meeting with some of the supporters to chalk out the next course of action. Hazare had announced the split with Kejriwal-led group, which is going ahead with its plan to form a party, saying they should not use his name or photo for the outfit they are planning to launch. "Anna's photograph and name are printed in our hearts. We will continue to take his blessings and touch his feet. Anna's five principles will become foundation of our party," Kejriwal said. Responding to Hazare's remarks that he does not go by a survey conducted through social networking sites, he claimed that it was the veteran activist who asked them to conduct a survey on whether to form a party or not.
Social activist Anna Hazare along with Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodiya, Kiran Bedi and other activists addressing the media after their meeting in New Delhi on September 19
"Anna had asked us to do the survey. Using SMS and Internet was his idea," he said. Claiming that there is a sense of urgency to change the system, he said the country was on "sale and everything is being sold out. We have challenges as well as opportunities. In our view both Congress and BJP are the same."
Meanwhile, Kejriwal supporters took potshots at Hazare on social networking sites like Twitter, posts which were retweeted by India Against Corruption. One tweet read, "Anna made people aware about corruption, but doesn't say, what to do with that awareness. Going political is only logical step" while another said, "need to change the script
Indian programmer hacked into Toyota's network WASHINGTON: An Indian computer programmer has been charged by the FBI for hacking into Toyota's computer network and sabotaging it, after he was fired by his company that provided IT services to the Japanese automobile major. Ibrahimshah Shahulhameed, who provided contractual services for Toyota Motor Manufacturing in central Kentucky, allegedly hacked into the company's website and issued wrong commands leading to the crashing of the firm's supplier computer network. The man was charged with computer fraud in that he "knowingly caused the transmission of programs, information, codes, and commands, and ... intentionally caused damage, without authorization, to a protected computer," according to an affidavit in support of an arrest warrant filed in a US District Court. Shahulhameed was a former employee of a company called GlobalSource IT, which had assigned him to provide computer services to Toyota, Kentucky.com
reported. GlobalSource IT fired him in August for allegedly harassing another employee who was also assigned to work at Toyota, according to a criminal court affidavit signed by special FBI agent Adam Keown.
computer system and caused damage without authorization," the affidavit said. Shahulhameed, who is being held at a detention centre, had told Toyota officials that he planned to return to India, according to the local paper.
The disgruntled programmer then logged on to Toyota's systems and issued commands that slowed down the functions. "Following his termination, Mr Shahulhameed accessed Toyota's
Toyota spokesman Rick Hesterberg had said earlier that Toyota officials don't think sensitive company material from Toyota's computer system had been distributed. -PTI
now! Let People write the script and not few who are disconnected from people." Another tweet blamed BJP for the split saying, "cheap politics played by BJP to kill the movement and destroy the effort to clean the political system." In reference to Hazare's stand that he does not go by surveys on Internet, one tweet which was retweeted by IAC read, "only 5,000 people voted on Facebook but five lakh plus missed calls. How can u say it is a Facebook
survey?" Another tweet said, "yes Anna Hazare not campaigning is a setback but that doesn't change the fact that people want a credible political option" while other advised Hazare, "unless Anna comes up with a workable strategy for non political movement, I am with a political option if it exists." A post aimed at Hazare tweeted a quote "You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great. -PTI
Indian couple can meet their son once a week: US court NEW YORK: An Indian couple, who has been caught in a legal battle here over the custody of their one-year-old son, has been granted permission by a New Jersey court to meet the child once a week, with the next hearing in the case scheduled for November 1. Debashish Saha, 28, and Pamela Saha, 25, were denied custody of their son Indrashish after he sustained serious head injuries at his home last month. The Sahas told the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency and the doctors treating their child that he had hurt himself when he fell off the bed while playing. However, the agency said the Sahas failed to take proper care of their child, who suffers from 'Shaken Baby Syndrome.' Indrashish received treatment at the Children's Specialized Hospital in New Jersey and the Sahas were not given permission to meet their son while in hospital.
Sources here told PTI that in a September 14 court hearing, the judge has allowed the Sahas to meet Indrashish once a week. The next hearing in the case is set for November 1. Sahas' attorney has also sought the help of a doctor to contest the "Shaken Baby Syndrome" charge and the Indian Consulate here is trying to put the lawyer in contact with a medical expert, sources said. Earlier, Sahas were also ordered to identify any relative in the US who could take care of Indrashish, whose custody will go to foster parents if the Sahas do not find any relative as guardians for the little boy. However, Saha, who came to the US about a month ago on a work visa, had said he does not want his child to be given to foster parents and wants to send him back to India. Last week, Saha had strongly denied allegations that he had neglected his child's care. -PTI
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Bandh against diesel hike, FDI evokes mixed response NEW DELHI: A bandh called by NDA, Left parties and SP to protest against diesel price hike, FDI in multi-brand retail and cap on subsidized LPG evoked mixed response as protestors disrupted road and rail traffic in parts of UP, Bihar, West Bengal and Odisha
Colony and South Extension in the capital were open in the morning hours but big markets like Khan Market, Connaught Place, Greater Kailash, Karol Bagh, Chandni Chowk and Kashmere Gate were shut. Auto rickshaws plied in the city
Samajwadi Party activists stopping a train during the opposition-sponsored Bharat bandh to protest over FDI in multi-brand retail and increase in diesel prices, in Allahabad on September 20
but it had little impact in Mumbai. In Delhi, most of the markets remained closed and vehicular movement was normal though protesters blocked traffic at some places. Shops in some areas like Bhogal, Laxmi Nagar, Defense
and buses of state-run Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) were on the roads in large numbers. At New Delhi railway station, auto drivers staged a protest and refused to carry passengers. However, most of the private
schools in Delhi remained closed. BJP supporters blocked vehicular movement on Vikas Marg. A BJP spokesperson said the party staged protests at around 100 locations in the capital. A senior Delhi Police official said a large number of personnel have been deployed. "We have ensured that every major road has police presence," he said. Samajwadi Party and BJP workers staged demonstrations and stopped trains at a number of places in Uttar Pradesh. Protestors stopped trains in Mathura, Agra, Varanasi, Allahabad and Lucknow while BJP workers and traders blocked the Agra-Gwalior Highway by burning tyres. Major markets remained closed at a number of places in UP, including in the state capital, official sources said in Lucknow. Raising slogans against FDI in retail, a group of SP workers held a demonstration outside the Walmart store at Sultanpur in Lucknow. The party also protested outside Divisional Railway Manager's office in Hazratganj.-PTI
BJP leader Rajnath Singh leading a protest over FDI in multi-brand retail and hike in diesel and LPG prices in Lucknow
Mulayam, Karat court arrest NEW DELHI: Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav and Left leaders Prakash Karat and A B Bardhan courted arrest here during the nation-wide bandh against FDI in retail and diesel price hike. After holding a joint demonstration at Jantar Mantar, the leaders of SP, four Left parties, JD(S), TDP and BJD marched to Parliament Street Police Station along with supporters and courted arrest. Besides Yadav, Karat (CPIM)and Bardhan (CPI), other prominent leaders who courted arrested included Sitaram Yechury (CPI-M), Chandrababu Naidu of TDP and Deve Gowda.
"The government has been coming out with policies after policies that affect people of this country. The biggest loser of these policies especially diesel price hike is farmers. Farmers have been put to lot of trouble. "We will tour the entire nation and listen to people's grievances and decide our strategy," Yadav said addressing the protesters. Karat alleged the government came out with the FDI decision to "rob the jobs of traders and give it to companies like Walmart". "We want to tell the government that its policies on FDI, diesel price hike and PSU disinvestment are wrong. We have to keep
this movement alive till the Govt rollbacks these decisions. "We will fight for this inside and outside Parliament. We will persuade the government to withdraw its decision. I request Mulayam Singh to support us in this fight for the people of the country," he said. Naidu said the government's policies are "wrong" and the Congress has to understand this. "All these are anti-people decisions and they need to be withdrawn," he added. A nation-wide bandh has been called by NDA, Left parties and SP against the Center's decision on FDI in retail, diesel price rise and cap on LPG cylinders.-PTI
Samajwadi Party President Mulayam Singh Yadav with JD-S President HD Deve Gowda ,TDP President N. Chandrababu Naidu and Samajwadi Party MP, Ram Gopal Yadav staging a dharna at Parliament Street Police Station during their Bharat bandh called to protest against FDI in multi-brand retail and fuel price hike in New Delhi on September 20
Keith Vaz wary of Indian government's FDI in retail decision LONDON: Indian-origin Labor MP Keith Vaz has advised Indian legislators to be careful while handling the issue of FDI in retail, cautioning that a major dominance by super markets may not be in the interest of common man. Vaz, Chairman of the Britain's Home Affairs Committee, said though he was not in a position to advise Indian MPs but he would still say,
"please be careful. Modernize the retail but don't hand it over". "If India allows big Super Markets to come there, they will not hesitate to have same dominance as in the USA. I don't think it is good for common man," he feels. Vaz was speaking at a function organized at the Crown Plaza hotel here by the Indian Journalists Association to celebrate his 25th anniversary in British Parliament.
Keith Vaz
Vaz, who is also playing a key role in creating awareness of diabetics and its effect, said he would hand over a bus to Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan on October 4 in western Indian city of Mumbai which will travel around the city raising awareness about diabetic disease. Referring to visa restrictions on non-EU students, Vaz said "our education sector will com-
pletely collapse without Indian students". "Indian students don't want to come here to work in TESCOs but study. A vast majority of students from India are genuine students". He said the London Metropolitan University issue where a lot of students were left in the lurch was badly handled but did not elaborate.-PTI
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USIBC applauds India for 'Big Bang' reforms India Post News Service
WASHINGTON: The U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC) has hailed India's progress in advancing major economic reforms with the Cabinet's approval of opening India's multi-brand retail sector to foreign direct investment (FDI), and increasing equity caps in civil aviation, broadcasting, and power trading exchanges. The government's courageous resolve to move on these complex reforms serves as an assurance to investors that its economic liberalization agenda is back on track. "The reforms approved by the Cabinet are a welcome signal to investors everywhere. The U.S.India Business Council applauds the government's bold actions that will help create a predictable investment and business climate," said Ajay Banga, Chairman of USIBC's Board of Directors. Mr. Banga is President & CEO of MasterCard Worldwide. "Opening the multi-brand retail sector to foreign direct investment will drive the modernization of India's expansive agri-retail marketplace. India's supply chain infra-
structure will see improved efficiencies and expertise, consumers will benefit from increased quality and choice, and inflation and rising food costs will be tamed," said Ron Somers, President of USIBC. "These big bang reforms send a crystal clear signal that India is open for business."
‘Opening the multibrand retail sector to foreign direct investment will drive the modernization of India's expansive agri-retail marketplace. India's supply chain infrastructure will see improved efficiencies and expertise’ The government of India's decision to allow foreign carriers to buy a 49% stake in Indian private airlines comes at a crucial time following heavy losses borne by many of India's carriers this past
fiscal year. Raising the equity cap presents an opportunity for U.S. carriers to be a part of India's remarkable growth in passenger traffic over the next decade. FDI in all broadcast-carriage services has been raised to 74% from 49% previously. USIBC believes this will provide industry with the leverage it needs to help fund India's digitization plan. "USIBC further welcomes the decision to permit foreign investment of up to 49% in power trading exchanges. India's power exchanges will benefit from the introduction of global best practices, new technology, and capital infusions, which will facilitate the transfer of power from surplus to deficit regions and improve grid stability and reliability. "This is a win-win for everyone," said Mr. Banga. The U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC) is the premier business advocacy organization formed by the U.S. and Indian governments in 1975 whose purpose is to deepen two-way trade and strengthen commercial ties. Today, USIBC comprises 350 toptier U.S. and Indian companies.
'FDI in retail doesn't violate current agreements' NEW DELHI: The government has said the recent decision to allow 51 per cent FDI in multi brand retail with conditions does not violate India's international commitments and agreements with any country. The opening up of FDI in multi brand retail trading is a liberalization measure and remains so with all the conditionalities, given the fact that currently FDI in multi brand retail trading is not allowed at all in India, an official statement said. "The decision does not violate any commitments/ obligations arising out of India's international agreements," it added. The statement comes a day after opposition BJP said India cannot make opening of stores by foreign multi brand retailer in any city subject to state government's clearance as the country has signed bilateral investment agreements with 82 countries, under which no conditions can be put on foreign investors from those nations. The statement by the Ministry
of Commerce & Industry, however, reiterated the recent policy decision did not infringe on any such agreements. Citing the case of Bilateral Investment Protection Agreement
The opening up of FDI in multi brand retail trading is a liberalization measure and remains so with all the conditionalities, given the fact that currently FDI in multi brand retail trading is not allowed at all in India, an official statement said (BIPA), it said FDI approval does not fall under it as the agreement is a post-establishment investment one implying equal treatment to domestic and foreign investors, unless the limitations to national
treatment are clearly spelt out at the pre-establishment stage. "The FDI policy is a pre-establishment instrument and therefore not covered by BIPA," the release said. The government further said since FDI in multi-brand retail trading was not allowed when Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) and Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) were negotiated, none of these agreements are affected by the recently approved policy. "Multi brand retail trading is classified as a service and therefore covered by the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS). India has not undertaken any commitments in this area under the GATS. As such, there is no impact of the policy on our commitments under the WTO," the government statement said. The policy of allowing FDI in multi brand retail says that it would be the prerogative of the states to allow setting up of stores. -PTI
INOC lauds UPA govt on allowing FDI India Post News Service
raking in profits at the expense of the farmer. The retail reform will allow global firms such as WalMart stores to hold a majority stake in a local partner and sell directly to consumers for the first time and it has the potential to transform India's $450 billion retail market and tame inflation. "The Manmohan Singh government deserves whole lot of credit for championing the policy
NEW YORK: Indian National Overseas Congress (I), USA has applauded the UPA Government headed by Dr. Manmohan Singh for its bold and courageous decision in allowing Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in retail. "We strongly believe just as Prime Minister has said in his statement that this move will help to spur economic growth and create jobs. Undoubtedly, this will send ‘This much needed reform a clear message to the global community as will also help the consumer well that India is ready who is hit with an 8% for prime time when it comes to Investments inflation in the month of and Trade" said George August mainly for food items Abraham, President of and we also expect to INOC (I), USA. "This much needed see quality improved’ reform will also help the consumer who is hit with an 8% inflation in the month despite strong opposition from of August mainly for food items certain quarters so as a way to and we also expect to see quality unclog supply bottlenecks that improved with products delivered cause a third of fresh produce to to the market place and the farm- rot before it reaches an Indian ers getting a bigger share of the table." INOC (I), USA expressed the pie," the statement added. "BJP and other regional parties hope that global chains will offer are short sighted in their opposi- better prices to farmers by cutting tion to FDI and they seem to put out middlemen, while also pumpthe interests of the middlemen ing investment into cold storage ahead of the consumer who were facilities.
Don't give in to Mamata's demands, says Industry NEW DELHI: Industry leaders, including Anand Mahindra and Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, have asked the government not to give in to the demands of Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee and carry forward the reforms process. Biocon Chairperson and Managing Director Shaw termed Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee as "maverick politician" stating her vote bank politics is not in sync with economic growth. "Mamta Didi is a maverick politician who depends on a vote bank of poor people. Her economic agenda is not aligned with strong economic growth," Shaw tweeted. Supporting the government's decision to relax retail FDI norms, Shaw added: "The fear of FDI retail can be answered by the same fear that was expressed when McDonalds n (sic) other chains were allowed." Mahindra & Mahindra Chair-
man Anand Mahindra also asked the government not to give in to the demands of the West Bengal Chief Minister and instead reforms process must be carried forward. Backing the UPA government on reforms, Mahindra tweeted: "Again, we urge the Govt to stand its ground. Right-thinking Indians will be less than amused by partisan politics in a fragile economy." Ficci President R V Kanoria said it was important for political parties to understand the importance of economic reforms for the growth of the country. "The country needs reforms, it needs to grow, it has potential, talent and entrepreneurial skills. I will urge those who are not supporting the reforms to think carefully," he said. Kanoria further said political differences must be set aside in the greater interest of the country. -PTI
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Salman emerges 'tiger' among Bollywood taxpayers
Salman Khan
MUMBAI: After a string of Rs 100 crore grossing films including 'Dabangg', 'Ready', 'Bodyguard' and 'Ek Tha Tiger', actor Salman Khan has emerged as the highest taxpayer from the tinsel town for the September quarter. Salman, 46, trumped all his peers and rivals from Bollywood by paying Rs 8 crore in advance tax as compared to the Rs 5 crore in the same period a year ago, an income tax official told PTI here. Salman was last seen in romantic-action-thriller 'Ek Tha Tiger', which has clocked approximately Rs 198 crore at the box office. The film's female lead and Salman's speculated former lady love in real life, Katrina Kaif, paid Rs 2.60 crore compared to the year ago period's Rs 1.70 crore. Salman's bete noire Shah Rukh Khan, who has not had any big release this year as yet, had his tax outgo flat at Rs 5 crore, the official said. Among the other Khans, Aamir's fortunes seem to have been hurt by his mega reality show Satyamev Jayate, as he paid only Rs 3.25 crore this September
versus last year's Rs 4.50 crore. Saif Ali Khan, whose films 'Agent Vinod' and 'Cocktail' had varying responses at the box office, paid a tax of Rs three crore compared to Rs 1.7 crore in the year ago period, the official said. Kareena Kapoor, who is rumored to be marrying Saif soon, and is looking forward to the release of the film 'Heroine' has paid an advance tax of Rs 2.20 crore
birthday, paid Rs 5 crore against the Rs 1.4 crore he paid last year while his daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's outgo jumped to Rs three crore from Rs 1.1 crore, the official said. Big B, who was at one point of time at the brink of bankruptcy, has only had one release this year in 'Department' which was a box office failure. Interestingly, Aishwarya has
Actor Amitabh Bachchan, who will soon be celebrating his 70th birthday, paid Rs 5 crore against the Rs 1.4 crore he paid last year while his daughter-in-law Aishwarya Rai Bachchan's outgo jumped to Rs three crore from Rs 1.1 crore, the official said compared to Rs 1.5 crore she did in the same period last year. Akshay Kumar, another big name in Bollywood, paid Rs 7.5 crore advance tax in comparison to Rs 5 crore he had paid last year during the same period. Actor Amitabh Bachchan, who will soon be celebrating his 70th
also been away from the silver screen since Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Guzaarish' released in 2010. Meanwhile, master blaster Sachin Tendulkar paid an advance tax of Rs two crore in comparison to Rs 1.75 crore in the same period last year, the official said.-PTI
India offers doctoral fellowships Indian chef's signature dish to adorn the skies for African students NEW DELHI: India has offered doctoral fellowships for African students in its bid to spur innovation even as it sought greater collaboration among scientists in developing countries. "We, together, could break new paths of technological development," Science and Technology Minister Vayalar Ravi said addressing the 12th General Conference of Third World Academy of Sciences (TWAS) held in Tianjin, China.
Ravi made a strong pitch for collaborative excellence in science, technology and innovation (STI) sector among developing countries. "We may need to explore path breaking steps in the STI sector. I see a value for inter-connecting some of our STI landscapes and research resources as well as collaborations among our scientists," he said. Optimizing research resources for discovering new scientific solutions and affordable innova-
tions for inclusive growth would call for greater level of collaboration among the developing nations, he said. Ravi noted that the TWAS has approached Ministry of Science and Technology for supporting Doctoral Fellowship Program in India for African students, in association with African Development Bank. "While this proposal is under examination, I am favorably inclined to this proposition," he said. -PTI
India requires more foreign services officials: Tharoor MELBOURNE: Citing that India is in need of a robust foreign policy with a focus on the world of the 21st century, former diplomatturned politician Shashi Tharoor has said the country requires more foreign services officials to play the role of a global leader. Tharoor, 56, who launched his new book 'Pax Indica: India and the world of the 21st century' here, said India was now being changed to a rulemaker from ruletaker and could play a global role promoting an overall set of
rules of the road. He said that while India has come a long way after opening up its economy since 1991, but it still needs to work on several aspects including on its severely understaffed and under funded Ministry of External Affairs. He said India needed a robust foreign policy with a focus on the world of the 21st century. "Given the state of aspirations of Indian foreign policy in the globalize world, there are ministries grossly understaffed and under resourced," Tharoor said.
"There is a need to expand that dramatically, hire more experts like climate experts," he said. He said for India with population of over 1.2 billion it had over 900 foreign services officials across the world which was even less than a smaller country like Brazil which has over 1200 and China which has around 4200 foreign service officials. Launching and signing away the book for his readers at a packed event, Tharoor said that the 440page book was dedicated to his wife Sunanda Pushkar. -PTI
Vineet Bhatia
DUBAI: Indian-origin chef Vineet Bhatia is part of a team handpicked to set a new standard for dining in the sky. Bhatia is one of the four of globally renowned chefs selected by Qatar Airways to inspire an entirely new in-flight dining experience. The culinary ambassadors have collaborated with the airline to create the 'Qatar Airways Culinary World Menu' - a new range of signature dishes to satisfy the tastes of the airline's passengers. Mumbai-born Vineet has his unique blend of exotic Indian food; British chef Aikens provides
his own variety of European culinary; Lebanese chef Ramzi brings his exquisite experience of Middle East cuisine and Japanese chef Nobu adds a touch of Asian fusion cuisine to the airways' ambassadorial line-up. "We understand that beyond superior service, travelers also want to enjoy the journey of discovery, exploring new tastes and cuisines. That is why we've traveled the world to assemble a team of culinary experts to offer our passengers the very best dining experience available in the sky," Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker said. -PTI
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India, IAEA sign pact on contribution to n-security NEW DELHI: India has signed a pact with global atomic watchdog IAEA concerning its voluntary contribution to the Nuclear Security Fund (NSF). The arrangement concerning the NSF was signed by Ratan Kumar Sinha, Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and Yukiya Amano, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna. At the Nuclear Security Summit in Seoul in March, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had announced a contribution of USD one million to towards activities concerning nuclear security. "I am pleased to announce that yesterday (Sept 18) India signed an arrangement with the IAEA concerning the voluntary contribution to the Nuclear Security Fund," Sinha told the 56th IAEA General Conference. He said India looked forward to working with the IAEA on identified activities in the field of nuclear security. "India has consistently supported IAEA's important role in facilitating national efforts to strengthen nuclear security and fostering effective international cooperation," he said. Sinha also announced India's voluntary contribution of USD 50,000 to International Project on
IAEA Director General Yukiya Amano (L) and Ratan Kumar Sinha, Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission of India, shake hands after signing an agreement concerning a voluntary contribution to the Nuclear Security Fund at the 56th General Conference of IAEA in Vienna, Austria on Sept 18
Innovative Nuclear Reactors and Fuel Cycles (INPRO). "I am happy to announce that India will continue its support to INPRO by making a voluntary contribution of USD 50,000 in addition to in-kind contribution through active participation in
several INPRO initiatives," he said. The INPRO methodology for assessment of innovative nuclear reactors and fuel cycles provides a broad framework for developing specific goals and acceptance criteria for new designs, he added. -PTI
Minor glitch mars AI Dreamliner's maiden flight NEW DELHI/CHENNAI: It was a smooth start for Air India's newly acquired Boeing 787 Dreamliner as it took to the air on its maiden commercial flight from Delhi but the cheers gave way to anxious moments as the next flight was delayed due to a 'minor' problem in plane's air conditioning. The Dreamliner's first commercial flight, between Delhi and Chennai, took off as scheduled at 7:10 AM from the IGI airport amid cheers from the 116 passengers on board. Captain A S Soman was the Commander while Captain Andrews as second-in-command. The flight was accorded a water cannon salute accompanied by traditional pujas on arrival at the Chennai airport on the festival day of Vinakayaka Chaturthi. "Traditional pujas such as breaking of coconut to mark the first flight of the Dreamliner were also conducted there," an Air India spokesperson said, adding the aircraft later left for New Delhi with 92 passengers. The same aircraft was to operate on the Delhi-Bangalore route.
"But the Captain experienced some minor glitch with the aircraft's airconditioning system and asked the engineers to check, before the take-off," the Air India official said. The aircraft was cleared for flying after the problem was rectified but the flight finally took off after a delay of about two hours.
According to sources, the plane was delayed as it was refueled and there was no vacant slot for Air India to take off. The national carrier received its second Dreamliner aircraft, having registration number VT-AND, which arrived at the IGI airport from Charleston in the US.-PTI
Senator seeks support for bill to cut all US aid to Pak WASHINGTON: A top American Senator has written to members of the US House of Representatives for their support in passing a bill which seeks to cut all American aid to Pakistan. Senator Rand Paul, in his 'Dear Colleague' letter urged members to pass the bill which seeks to cut all foreign aid to any country that "fails to secure" US embassies. The bill also demands financial accountability from countries like Pakistan, Egypt and Libya, which recently saw violence directed against US embassies. Paul's move came within hours of Pakistan Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar's arrival in Washington to hold talks with US officials and lawmakers. Paul, the Senator from Ken-
tucky, issued a similar letter to his colleagues in the Senate, underlining his intention to obstruct any pending legislation until the Senate addresses these matters. "This week is likely our last chance to address the ongoing violence, to promote security at our diplomatic facilities, and to take appropriate steps to ensure cooperation from the governments of Pakistan, Egypt and Libya," Paul said in his letter. "First, we must demand accountability from the government of Pakistan, which receives over USD 3 billion from us every year, yet routinely plays both sides of some of the most important issues while openly thwarting our objectives in the region," he wrote. PTI
IAF to spend over Rs 2 lakh crore on procurements NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force is planning to spend over Rs two lakh crore in the next 10 years on modernization including procurement of fighter jets such as the 126 multi-role combat aircraft. "We are on path of modernizing our assets. In the last five year plan, IAF procurements were around Rs 1.5 lakh crore and over next two Plan periods, we envisage to procure assets worth more than Rs two lakh crore, IAF Deputy Chief, Air Marshal R K Sharma said here. He was addressing a seminar on 'Energizing Aerospace Industry' in India. The IAF is planning to sign a number of big ticket deals in the near future including the 126 MMRCA expected to be worth
over Rs 50,000 crore, the fifth generation fighter aircraft deal with Russia which is expected to cross the Rs one lakh crore mark and a number of other projects above the range of Rs 5,000 crore. Addressing the gathering, the IAF Deputy Chief said there was "huge potential" for the private sector to work in the defense sector but it should be done by "adopting best ethical practices". "You must adopt best ethical practices and be extremely sensitive to IAF's concerns about the security of information," he said. He said the DRDO and Defense Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) must not see the private sector as a competitor but as a partner in developing an indigenous defense industry in the country. -PTI
Newly acquired Air India B-787 Dreamliner after it landed at the airport in Chennai on September 19
Desi News Bhullar captivates as Bulleh Shah at Punjabi Milap SURENDRA ULLAL
CHICAGO: The three-hour fifth Global Punjabi Milap held on Saturday, Sept 15 at Des Plaines Theater in Des Plaines to a packed auditorium turned out to be a huge success. Thakar S Basati welcomed the audience and shared why people from different parts of Punjab need to come together and forget the horrible time of partition of 1947. He introduced Prof. Jagindar Singh Ramdev, President of AASA (Asian American Seniors Association). He shared some of his personal experiences with Punjabi people from all over the world.
COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA
Ganapati Bappa arrives in Bay Area with pomp Details on page 18
12 India Post
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September 28, 2012
Third job fair by IACS in October
Details on page 14
Sewa fundraiser ballet: Shri Krishna Vyjayanti RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service
CHICAGO: With 32 chapters in 22 States across USA, the name stands for service- SEWA ( Selfless Efforts for Welfare of All) is now poised to do one better in the coming year by expanding its base and areas of service to the community at large. Anil Deshpande, Vice President Development SEWA International, said that one of the focal points of activities is to get more and more youth involved so that the organization remains energized all the time. Talking to Indian media here, he said that Yuwa for SEWA is one such project that involves second generation Indians here in community oriented activities. Details on page 15
Hindu mantras open two events in Utah
IACS team (L to R) Ken Pavichevich, Srinivas Katragadda, Pravween Medikundam, Vandana Jhingan, Jagan Bukkaraju & Suresh Kumar
RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service
CHICAGO: The third strike and it may get over in Baseball game but it is a different ballgame for Indo American Community Services (IACS), a Chicago based no profit body that has expanded its base over the past three years and is set for further expansion. IACS, already successful in hosting Asian Women's conference, job fairs and professional networking meets, has now announced holding its third annual job fair at Hotel Hilton in Chicago downtown on Wednesday Octo-
ber 17. It will have larger participation from corporations and potential employers. Talking to Indian media here,
sistently rising and expectations are there would be 30 plus ranking companies not only from Chicago but from other parts of the coun-
Some of the participating companies are big names in the corporate world like IBM, Infosys, Abbot Labs, ITW, WW Grainger, New York Life Insurance, Mass Mutual Financial, HCL Global Systems, Walgreen, Illinois Action for Children, among others Srinivas Katragadda, president IACS, said that the participation in IDS held job fairs has been con-
try participating in this year's event. The participation from job seekers too is expected to cross
India Post News Service
UTAH: Settled by Mormon pioneers in 1849, Provo Municipal Council and Utah County Commission in the state of Utah launched their meetings with Hindu invocations for the first time on September 18. The invocations contained verses from the world's oldest existing scripture. Rajan Zed, President of Universal Society of Hinduism, delivered the invocations from ancient Sanskrit scriptures before the County Commission and Municipal Council. After Sanskrit delivery, he read the English translation of the prayers. Details on page 17
A group of participants at IACS Job Fair 2011
the 1000 mark from about 700 registered last year, he said. Some of the participating companies are big names in the corporate world like IBM, Infosys, Abbot Labs, ITW, WW Grainger, New York Life Insurance, Mass Mutual Financial, HCL Global Systems, Walgreen, Illinois Action for Children, among others. Srinivas said that many educational institutions like University of Chicago, Northwestern UIC, IIT Chicago, Roosevelt, Chicago Sate University and Loyola would be participating and "supporting our actions." Cont’d on page 13
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Congress, BJP spokespersons debate FDI India Post News Service
WASHINGTON, DC: India's vibrant democracy was on display here when the U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC) hosted Mr. Manish Tewari, Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) and National Spokesperson of the Indian National Congress (INC) and Mr. Rajiv Pratap Rudy, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and National Spokesperson for the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP), for a lively discussion on the current state of affairs in India and the recently announced "big bang" reforms, including the opening of multi-brand retail to 51% foreign direct investment. During the candid conversation, USIBC encouraged the parties' leaders to work to-
gether and not allow politics to hamper the implementation of the progressive reforms. "Now is the time for cooperation and
ment in tackling inflation, create millions of jobs for India's massive youth population, and give India's economy a much needed
"Now is the time for cooperation and action," said USIBC President Ron Somers. "Last week's reforms will help the government in tackling inflation, create millions of jobs for India's massive youth population, and give India's economy a much needed boost. The investment in the critical backend infrastructure will directly benefit the farmers and ultimately the Indian consumer” action," said USIBC President Ron Somers. "Last week's reforms will help the govern-
boost. The investment in the critical backend infrastructure will directly benefit the farm-
ers and ultimately the Indian consumer, who will enjoy improved quality and lower prices." Mr. Tewari and Mr. Rudy were joined by Mr. Sunjoy Joshi, Director, Observer Research Foundation (ORF), and the colloquy was moderated by Mr. Nelson Cunningham, USIBC Board of Director, and Managing Partner, McLarty Associates. The U.S.-India Business Council (USIBC) is the premier business advocacy organization formed by the U.S. and Indian governments in 1975 whose purpose is to deepen two-way trade and strengthen commercial ties. Today, USIBC comprises 350 top-tier U.S. and Indian companies. Ajay Banga serves as Chairman of USIBC's Board of Directors. Mr. Banga is President & CEO of MasterCard Worldwide.
Guidelines to help educate others on Sikhism India Post News Service
NEW YORK: What happened on August 5 in Wisconsin was the biggest incident of hate involving Sikh Americans in history. The Sikh Coalition has come forward to initiate steps to ensure that an event like this never happens again. In a statement it says, "This is a pivotal moment for us. We've never before been in a position where people are primed and ready to listen, understand,
and appreciate Sikhs in their community. So let us work together to create and lead projects that do just that." The Sikh Coalition has recommended the following measures to ensure that Sikhs are appreciated and respected in every city: • Invite local law enforcement, elected officials, and educators to Vaisakhi/Gurpurab celebrations. • Participate in local parades and celebrations in your city for Independence Day, Memorial Day, and Thanksgiving.
• Appoint members of your gurdwara committee to be interfaith leaders. Invite non-Sikhs to your gurdwara, and also visit other houses of worship in your city. • Participate in charity walks/runs and encourage your gurdwara to create a team. • Place advertisements in local newspapers around American holidays. For example, "The Sikh community of X wishes you a Happy Thanksgiving/Happy Independence Day!" • Reach out to local media to pitch stories about local Sikhs or the post-Wiscon-
sin climate for Sikhs. • As a parent, join your child's Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and be visible in the school; offer to do presentations on Sikhi in your child's classroom. • As a Khalsa School, partner with community service organizations in your city to do different types of seva; for example, adopt a highway project, volunteer at nursing homes, join SikhCess and prepare food for homeless shelters, etc. • As a Sikh Student's Association, host a Turban Tying Day or a langar event.
Sikh invocation at Chicago City Council SURENDRA ULLAL
Asian American Policy & Research Institute (SAAPRI) for taking the initiative to make this happen. Further, the resolution confirms Mayor Rahm Emanuel's and the City Council's commitment to the freedom and respect of all people to practice their faith fearlessly," said Rajinder Singh Mago, a Sikh community leader who also
ther a political agenda. This is not right. Mayor Emanuel is working to make Chicago the most immigrant friendly city in the nation now our conversation must reflect that goal," said Alderman Pawar. SAAPRI also commended Illinois House Representative Daniel Biss for introducing a similar resolution at the state level, with Rep-
SAAPRI also commended Illinois House Representative Daniel Biss for introducing a similar resolution at the state level, with Representative Lou Lang serving as chief cosponsor
Lakwant Singh Komla, Rajinder Mago, Sadru Noorani with other activists at City Hall
CHICAGO: Lakhwant Singh Komal, Secretary at Gurdwara Sahib of Chicago and a past president of Sikh Religious Society in Palatine opened the September 12 meeting of the City Council of Chicago with a Sikh invocation. Chicago Aldermen Ameya
Pawar with co-sponsorships of Aldermen Deborah Silverstein and Joe Moore introduced a resolution in the Chicago City Council addressing the recent violent attacks on Sikhs at Oak Creek Wisconsin Gurdwara, and several Muslim institutions and urging the
city to take measures to promote tolerance. "The Sikh invocation at the opening of the Chicago City Council is a historic and special event. The Sikh American community of Chicago appreciates both Alderman Ameya Pawar and South
gave input on the language of the resolution which was introduced. Mago is on the board of governors of Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago and also a trustee emeritus of the Council for a Parliament of the World's Religions, founded in Chicago. "This resolution is a statement about Chicago's values and I felt it was important to call out some of the inflammatory rhetoric in public sphere - there are many elected and public officials that actively stoke these flames to fur-
resentative Lou Lang serving as chief cosponsor. "Racially motivated violence diminishes our whole society and all civic institutions must band together and state clearly that our region will never tolerate such outrages," said Representative Biss. SAAPRI is a non-profit, nonpartisan organization established in 2001 to improve the lives of South Asian Americans in the Chicago area, by using research to formulate equitable and socially responsible public policy.
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Bhullar captivates as Bulleh Shah at Punjabi Milap SURENDRA ULLAL
CHICAGO: The three-hour fifth Global Punjabi Milap held on Saturday, Sept 15 at Des Plaines Theater in Des Plaines to a packed auditorium turned out to be a huge success Thakar S Basati welcomed the audience and shared why people from different parts of Punjab need to come together and forget the horrible time of partition of 1947. He introduced Prof. Jagindar Singh Ramdev, President of AASA (Asian American Seniors Association). He shared some of his personal experiences with Punjabi people from all over the world. Dr. Navdeep Kaur Sandhu of Sandhu Petroleum and Ravinder Kapoor President Delhi Association of North America were guests of honor. Sajid Chaudhry of PHACA (Pakistan Heritage and Cultural As-
L to R Thakkar Basati and Sajjid Chaudhary at Baba Bulleh Shah event
and in Khanna and other cities. The minute of silence included Punjabi people who left us last year - S Randhir Singh NY, Dr Iftekhar Nasim Ifti, Jagjit Singh and
writers in the world. Zafar Malik, Associate Dean from East West University Chicago, talked about Bulleh Shah' views from literary aspect. He said
Prof Jaginder Singh
like the ritualistic approach to reach God. After few speeches, a short play was staged depicting the life of Baba Bulleh Shah. Gurmukh S
talked about her production company NKPI and sang a few couplets of folk Punjabi songs. Speeches continued after the play. Dr. Nabeel Rasheed, who is an Attorney in Chicago, spoke about the feministic views of Bulleh Shah. The third segment of the program was poetry by local poets. S Gur Singh recited his poem as a tribute to Bulleh Shah. S Tejinder Singh Minhas, Ex President of PHO (Punjabi Heritage Organization) recited Bulleh Shah's kaafi: Bullah ki jaana main koun... in a melodious voice. Janab Yasin Chohan sang few kaafis in Taranum. Qaiser Syed paid his tribute to Bulleh Shah with his shaeerie. Two new entries were of S Gurnek Singh Jhawar who reminded us the value of Surma in Punjabi culture and its effect on
S Gur Singh recited his poem as a tribute to Bulleh Shah. S Tejinder Singh Minhas, Ex President of PHO (Punjabi Heritage Organization) recited Bulleh Shah's kaafi: Bullah ki jaana main koun... in a melodious voice Dr. Ashraf Toor, Prof. Jagindar Singh Ramdev, Ravinder Kapoor and Dr. Navdeep Kaur Sandhu at Milap meet
sociation ) invited Ali Akhtar, a renowned Pakistani businessman and activist and also Dr. Ashraf Toor, who provides free medical services to needy people, to be the guests of honor from their side of Punjab. The program started with a minute of silence for people who were killed in Oak Creek, Milwaukee, in Karachi industrial accident
Mehdi Hasan. Madhu Uppal talked about her first Punjabi CD "Rang Punjabi" and recited a poem about richness of Punjabi language. Sajid Chaudhry gave a brief talk on Baba Bulleh Shah who is loved by Punjabis across the globe. He introduced Dr. Tahir Rohail who talked about Bulleh Shah's place with his contemporary poets and
Bulleh Shah wrote what he felt without any fear of any rituals, caste or religious superiors. Ali Akhtar Sahib, one of the main sponsors of the program, said that Bulleh Shah wrote very frank and soul touching poetry. Dr. Sultan Akbar Hayat said Bulleh Shah saw God in all of us. Dr. Javed Bhatty said, "Baba's poetry was secular, bold yet very polite." Baba didn't
Bhullar played the key role of Baba. Dr. Tahir Rohail played the role of Sharabi (drunk) elder brother of Bulleh Shah. Dr. Arif Agha played the role of Shah Inayat Quadri, Bulleh Shah' teacher and Sufi Saint. Kamlesh Gupta played the role of Malangni. Live Sufi Dhol was played by Dr. Sukhraaj S Basati. Navraaz Kaur Wu (Basati)
young minds. Raj Lally Sharma paid tribute to Shiv Batalvi as Raj himself belongs to Batala, the birth place of Shiv Batalvi. Thakar S Basati appealed that both countries need to relax visa requirements and promote free visits, need to start building trust amongst each other. Prof. Jagindar Singh Ramdev gave vote of thanks to the audience at the end of program.
Third job fair by IACS in October Cont’d from page 12
Jagan Bukkaraju, secretary IACS, mentioned that the job fair broadly targets three areas: job opportunity discussions and interviews, employer trade show and exhibit conferences, and networking among professionals. The job opportunity discussions will host sessions that will explore soft-skills for careers success, and the topics covered would be HR Strategies, resume preparations, career counseling,
benefits management, etc. The objective of net working session will be to allow participants to connect at a deeper level, beyond regular employment based discussions, he added. Praveen Medikundam, a practicing attorney and executive team member, observed that IACS also conducts annul Leadership Networking that seeks to provide young South Asian Americans opportunities to connect and access to both public and corporate lead-
ership. Past speakers at these conferences have been Dan Korte, president Defense Aerospace, Rolls -Royce, Terry Friel Dean of Roosevelt University Business School, Manu Bhardwaj, Sr Advisor at the US State Department and Toby Chaudhary of Strategic Communication at the White House, among others. Among the volunteers and IACS team members present during the press briefings were Vandana Jhingan, Suresh Kumar and Ken Pavichevich.
Community Across America
September 28, 2012
India Post 15
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Sewa fundraiser ballet: Shri Krishna Vyjayanti to local shelters, Meals on Wheels, Community Parks' Cleanup etc. The youth also helps SEWA International raise funds for its various projects. Deshpande said that one such project that Chicago chapter along with other chapters in different parts of USA has picked up is to help settle Bhutanese refugees. "Thousands of Bhutanese who had fled to Tibet and are now virtually Stateless are given asylum in many a Western country including USA. In Chicago alone, there are 3500 Bhutanese refugees who need to get their home and hearth. We are actively involved in assisting them to get settled here and our youth
sides India - Sri Lanka, Kenya, Guyana and of course USA. Deshpande said that all organizations oriented towards community services need funds for their activities and SEWA International is not an exception. It did successfully organize fund raisers in the past and this year it has one more such event slated for Saturday September 29. It is Shri Krishnay Vyjayanti - a dance ballet in Hindi by Prabhat Kala of India. The program will be at Jain Temple auditorium in Bartlett and will start at 5 pm sharp, Deshpadne added. He said the Ballet touches upon the life of Lord Krishna right from birth, raising in Gokul to render-
For instance, it raised funds for floods in Pakistan and Bihar, Japanese Tsunami, Hurricane Katrina and Haiti earthquake. SEWA has no geographical barriers when picking up a community project Anil Deshpande VP Development & Marketing SEWA Int. and Archana Deshpande
RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service
CHICAGO: With 32 chapters in 22 States across USA, the name stands for service- SEWA ( Selfless Efforts for Welfare of All) is
now poised to do one better in the coming year by expanding its base and areas of service to the community at large. Anil Deshpande, Vice President Development SEWA International, said that one of the focal
points of activities is to get more and more youth involved so that the organization remains energized all the time. Talking to Indian media here, he said that Yuwa for SEWA is one such project that involves second generation Indians here in community oriented activities. He mentioned that many a young volunteer had gone abroad including some to India, for SEWA activities under Yuwa for Sewa program. This is on top of ongoing locally beneficial activities like Adopt a Highway, Provide food
teams are a good help to us," he said. Some of the projects that SEWA International was involved and rendered help pertained to education, health, women empowerment, rural and tribal welfare. It was also in the forefront when natural disasters struck in any part of the world. For instance, it raised funds for floods in Pakistan and Bihar, Japanese Tsunami, Hurricane Katrina and Haiti earthquake. SEWA has no geographical barriers when picking up a community project. Its volunteers have worked in different countries be-
Scences from Shri Krishna Vyjayanti Dance Ballet- a) Krishna being upbraided b) Krishna and Balram in Kans' court
ing memorable sermon to Arjun on the battlefield of Kurukshtetra. The ballet lasts a little over two hours. It is a big task to depict every aspect of Krishna's life in the two-hour time frame. Still the group has done an excellent job maintaining a high level of acting and choreography blended with songs in classical tunes sung by famous singers like Vani Jairam and Yesudas and composed by maestro Padmashree Pandit Vijaya Raghav Rao. The ballet presentation by Prabhat Kala group in cities in USA so far has drawn rave reviews from those attending it.
Community Across America
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September 28, 2012
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Gandhi Memorial Trust to celebrate Gandhi Jayanti
Vedic Day Care Center celebrates graduation KRISHNA DAS
Guests of honor teachers and children at Vedic Day Care Center graduation program
Gandhi Jayanti gathering in Skokie last year
RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service
CHICAGO: Gandhi Memorial Trust has slated celebration of Gandhi Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, on October 2 at the Gandhi statue site in Skokie, a north side suburb of Chicago. Mayor George VanDusen has issued a proclamation to honor the legacy of the Mahatma and has blessed this event. Om Prakash Kamaria, chairman of the Trust, said, "Let us honor the man, who showed the world the path of nonviolence, peace and tolerance with active participation in the celebration that will include singing of Gandhi Ji's favorite bhajans and comments from people present." The statue is located at the Skokie Heritage Park in Skokie on McCormick Blvd between Dempster and Church on the east side of the blvd. Trustees of Gandhi Memorial Trust will facilitate the event from 10 am thru 11 am on October 2. "Every one is invited to pay tributes to Father
of the Nation. Please bring flowers only. If it is not possible to be there during this time, one may also visit the statue at any time on
“Om Prakash Kamaria, chairman of the Trust, said, "Let us honor the man, who showed the world the path of non-violence, peace and tolerance with active participation in the celebration that will include singing of Gandhi Ji's favorite bhajans and comments from people present" October 2," Kamaria added. At the conclusion of the celebration, Prasad (a package of dry fruits) will be distributed.
CHICAGO: The Vedic Day Care Center, a pre-school and kindergarten in Chicago, celebrated its 18th annual graduation program on Sunday, August 26 at the Vedic Day Care Center with lot of enthusiasm and joy. Over 150 people attended the near three hours program that highlighted performances by Vedic Day Care Center children. The start was with recitation of some slokas from the Bhagavad Gita. This was followed by reenacting of past times of Lord Krishna as a child and performance of folk dances. The chief guests were Naveen Mehta, Bharat Desai and Chetan Patel. Members of the audience enjoyed the children's extraordinary performance. The chief guests gave meaningful speeches touching upon the theme of how the
Center in Chicago has been rendering a yeoman's service to the Indian American society thru teaching the children about Indian culture and traditions. They also emphasized that parents should
and certificates, rewarding them for the outstanding achievements accomplished at the Vedic Day Care Center. The rewards were given by the chief guests. The grand finale was saying of prayers
Over 150 people attended the near three hours program that highlighted performances by Vedic Day Care Center children. The start was with recitation of some slokas from the Bhagavad Gita take advantage of the education that is provided by the Vedic Day Care. Vrshabha Das, a founder president said that support of parents was necessary for the Day Care Center to stay afloat. During the graduation ceremony, students received trophies
and distribution of prasadam, which was sponsored by Piyush Desai & Mrs. Tinaben. Amongst many who financially support the Vedic Day Care are Dr. Agarwal, Dr. Modi, Naveen Mehta, Kalpesh Patel, and Chetan Patel family.
IDCA International Conference at IIT Wheaton SURENDRA ULLAL
CHICAGO: India Development Coalition of America (IDCA) is holding its Tenth International Conference on "Working Together for Poverty Eradication and Climate Change Mitigation in India" October 6-7 at IIT's Rice Campus in Wheaton, Illinois. The conference will bring together like-minded nonprofit organizations, UNDP, and activists from India, Canada, and US to share good practices and facilitate meaningful action on issues such as water management, sustainable
livelihoods, health care, education, rural development, and alternative energy. Through panel discussions and presentations, participants will learn about the latest development projects being done by non-resident Indians (NRIs) and Indians in these fields There will also be plentiful opportunities to network with eminent businesspeople, social workers and community organizers, and to learn from the experiences of students from universities such as DePaul, University of Iowa, Illi-
nois University, and others. Key Speakers Include: Mrs. Mukta Dutta Tomar, CGI -Chicago; Dr. Ramesh Jalan, Chief, Climate Change Solution Exchange, UNDP, New Delhi; Prof. Ashok Malhotra, Founder Ninash Foundation, NY; Dr. Terry Papneja, President, AIM for Seva, Toronto; Dr. Molly Smith, Executive Director, Pratham, USA, TX; Mrs. Parul Sheth, Co Founder, Saishava Sansthan, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, Mr. Jay Sehgal, Exe. V.P, Cont’d on page 19
Community Across America
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India Post 17
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Hindu mantras open two events in Utah India Post News Service
UTAH: Settled by Mormon pioneers in 1849, Provo Municipal Council and Utah County Commission in the state of Utah launched their meetings with Hindu invocations for the first time on September 18. The invocations contained verses from the world's oldest existing scripture.
guages. Wearing saffron attire, a ruddraksh mala (rosary), and traditional sandal paste tilak (religious mark) on the forehead, Zed sprinkled few drops of water from river Ganga of India, considered holy by Hindus, around the podium before the prayers. Utah County Commission Chair Larry Ellertson and Provo Mu-
Zed recited from Rig-Veda, the oldest scripture of the world still in common use, besides lines from Upanishads and Bhagavad-Gita (Song of the Lord), both ancient Hindu scriptures. He started and ended the prayers with "Om", the mystical syllable containing the universe Rajan Zed, President of Universal Society of Hinduism, delivered the invocations from ancient Sanskrit scriptures before the County Commission and Municipal Council. After Sanskrit delivery, he read the English translation of the prayers. Sanskrit is considered a sacred language in Hinduism and root language of Indo-European lan-
nicipal Council Chair Laura H. Cabanilla welcomed and thanked Zed. Zed recited from Rig-Veda, the oldest scripture of the world still in common use, besides lines from Upanishads and BhagavadGita (Song of the Lord), both ancient Hindu scriptures. He started and ended the prayers with "Om", the mystical syllable con-
Just after the historic first Provo Municipal Council Hindu invocation, from left to right, are Council members Sterling Beck, Kay Van Buren, Rick Healey, Hindu leader Rajan Zed, Council chair Laura H. Cabanilla, Council members Gary Garrett and Hal Miller.
taining the universe, which in Hinduism is used to introduce and conclude religious work. Reciting from Brahadaranyakopanishad, Zed said, "Asato ma sad gamaya, Tamaso ma jyotir gamaya, Mrtyor mamrtam gamaya", which he then
translated as, "Lead me from the unreal to the Real, Lead me from darkness to Light, and Lead me from death to Immortality." Reciting from Bhagavad-Gita, he urged Council members and commissioners to keep the welfare of others always in mind.
Utah County boasts of 172 listings on National Register of Historic Places. Prominent people associated with it include actor Robert Redford, television inventor Philo Farnsworth, Olympic medalist Shauna Rohbock and boxer Jack Dempsey.
Nyaya boosting health care in rural Nepal SURENDRA ULLAL
Nepali patient
CHICAGO: Nyaya Health, a no profit organization delivering transparent, data-driven health care to Nepal's rural poor, has been nominated for a share of $5 million in grants, which will provide free health care for thousands in rural Nepal. Nepal, a south east Asian country neighboring India, is in dire need of health care workers, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Information released by WHO, indicates that it has fewer than 23 doctors, nurses and midwives per 10,000 population. This lack of trained workers is "hampering the deliv-
ery of health services" and calls for community-based health care work as a solution. The nonprofit Nyaya Health is expanding access to health care in the far western region of Nepal, one of the remotest areas of the world. It is addressing the need through once-closed Bayalpata Hospital and training of its more than 70 community health workers. The facility treated 11,300 patients in 2011. Nepal is one of the least developed countries in the world, and mothers and children regularly die from conditions treated routinely
Bayalpata Hospital
in the United States. The rate of worm infestation in rural areas is 74 percent, leading to devastating rates of malnutrition. About half of children under five suffer from stunted growth caused by chronic malnutrition. Nyaya Health uses a forwardthinking model that's building sustainable, long-term infrastructure
for health care in Nepal's far-western region. 98 percent of Nyaya Health's staff is Nepali, and more than 80 percent of team members come from the far-western region where the organization works. More than 101,000 people in the region have accessed free health care since 2008 thanks to the nonprofit's work.
Nyaya Health brings life-saving, quality health care to rural Nepalis by establishing hospitals and clinics and training community health care workers. The nonprofit, which re-opened the previously abandoned Bayalpata Hospital, has brought free health care to more than 101,000 people in Nepal's far-west region.
Community/California
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September 28, 2012
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Ganapati Bappa arrives in Bay Area with pomp RITU MAHESHWARI
Sri Bala Ganapathi Homam
FREMONT: Ganesha Mahotsav, one of the biggest Indian festivals of the year, began with a bang at the Fremont Hindu Temple on September 18. With the elaborate festivities, this will be the largest Ganapati celebration in US. Hundreds of devotees from across the Bay Area are gathering here every day to venerate the remover of obstacles, Lord Ganesha. Tuesday was Bala Ganapathi Homam and Abhishek. On Ganesha Mahotsav, Siddhi Vinayak temple was completely decked with decorations. Beautifully decorated Ganapathi blessed the devotees. Organizers at Fremont Hindu Temple will be conducting Maha Yagnas daily for the thirteen days of this beautiful festival. Renowned artists will be performing, making sure this year's celebra-
Sri Bala Ganapathi Abhishek.
Preetibhoj.
tions will be the best yet. Decorating statues of Lord Ganesha uniquely every day, culminating with immersion in the ocean, the
festival promises to be absolutely wonderful for those seeking spiritual fulfillment! Just as you see Ganapati in dif-
Priest with Vijaya Aasuri, Ritu Maheshwari, Neelu Kapoor, Manorama Joshi, Veena Birla.
Ganesh Abhishek.
ferent incarnations in Mumbai or Hyderabad, you can see a different style of Ganapati decoration everyday in the temple. Ganesh visarjan will be held on September
30 in Ocean onboard a specially chartered ship. Devotees from San Francisco Bay Area will gather on the ship for visarjan to complete the festival.
Pandit Govindji
September 28, 2012
Community/California
India Post 19
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'Be prepared' event to survive emergencies India Post News Service
SACRAMENTO: The California Emergency Management Agency (Cal EMA) joined representatives from local, state, federal, non-profit and private-sector agencies assembled at the State Capitol with their command and communications vehicles, patrol cars and fire engines for the NorCal Be Prepared! Event. This event was held to help commemorate National Preparedness Month and California Preparedness Day as well as to help educate the public on how they can write their own personal success stories after the next disaster occurs in their communities. The event, co-sponsored by Cal EMA and Wal-Mart, featured approximately 40 booths and displays staffed by subject matter experts from dozens of local, state and federal agencies, community based organizations and private-sector entities. During the event, attendees learned about the risk of earthquakes, fires, floods and tsunamis in their communities, the actions they should take in the emergencies they are most likely to experience, as well as the supplies
IDCA International Conference at IIT Wheaton Cont’d from page 16
The Sehgal Family Foundation, IA; Ms. Rajasvini Bhansali, Exe. Director, IDEX, CA; Prof. Sree N. Sreenath, Sewa International, OH; Dr. Terry Papneja, Canada; Dr. Molly Smith, Tx and Dr. Ramesh Jalan, UNDP. India's economy has been growing at an average rate of nearly 8% over the past few years, second only to China. Despite its status as an emerging economic power, India ranks a meager 134th in the UNDP's Human Development In-
Despite its status as an emerging economic power, India ranks a meager 134th in the UNDP's Human Development Index dex and continues to have more people living in poverty than any other country. With its booming economy and ever rising population, India faces tremendous environmental challenges, including air pollution, water scarcity and contamination, and soil and forest degradation. In response, governmental and non-governmental organizations are making tremendous efforts to tackle the extreme poverty that persists in India and to form an environmental perspective and framework to put India on a path to sustainable development.
they need to store for their families and pets. "California is blessed to have the best firefighting, law enforcement and emergency management personnel in the nation, if not the world, but they won't be able to meet everyone's needs immediately after a catastrophic earthquake, fire or flood," said
information they've obtained to increase their levels of preparedness at home, work and their community." "Emergency preparation needs to be taken seriously by everyone, especially Californians, as our state faces frequent and often severe hazards including earthquakes,
"Emergency preparation needs to be taken seriously by everyone, especially Californians, as our state faces frequent and often severe hazards including earthquakes, fires and floods," said FEMA Region IX Administrator Nancy Ward. "The state of California's Emergency Management Agency is an acknowledged leader in handling disasters, but businesses and residents must also do their part Cal EMA Secretary Mark Ghilarducci. "I encourage those who attended today's event and the others that are being held throughout the state this month to help reduce the strain that a catastrophic emergency will pose on our first responders by using the
fires and floods," said FEMA Region IX Administrator Nancy Ward. "The state of California's Emergency Management Agency is an acknowledged leader in handling disasters, but businesses and residents must also do their part by taking important life-
saving steps towards preparedness including adopting emergency plans, building an emergency supply kits and supporting community preparedness at every level." Other participants included the California Earthquake Authority (CEA), the California Animal Response Emergency System (CARES), the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), the California Emergency Medical Services Authority (EMSA), Cal FIRE, the California Geological Survey, the California Grocers Association, the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the California Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), Caltrans, the Capitol Region Chapter of the American Red Cross, Cal Volunteers, Citizen Voice/Safely Out, Clear Channel, Grainger, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Noah's Wish, Pacific Gas & Electric, the Sac Metropolitan Fire District, the Sacramento Office of Emergency Services, the Sacramento Police Department, Shelf Reliance, Teen CERT, Totally Unprepared/University of California San Diego, West Sacramento City CERT and the Salvation Army.
Tech News Court suspends suit on Google book scanning NEW YORK: An appeals court has put on hold a long-running lawsuit over Google's massive book-scanning project, likely delaying a full hearing on the merits of the copyright issues in the case. The US appeals court overruled a circuit judge who last month called for a hearing to go forward even as Google contested whether the case may be certified as a class action. The appeal judges granted Google's motion to delay a hearing at the lower court, noting that the groups suing the Internet giant had indicated "that they consent to the stay, although not to the arguments put forward in the motion as to why Google expects to prevail on appeal." -AFP
TechBiz 20 India Post
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Actress Nargis Fakhri with Vice President, Head Consumer Computing, HCL Infosystems Ltd., Princy Bhatnagar at the launch of HCL Ultrasmart ME Ultrabook, in New Delhi on September 19
September 28, 2012
Top exhibitors and retailers at AARA's annual tradeshow
Apple gets record 2 million iPhone 5 orders NEW YORK: Apple has said that it received more than two million orders for its new iPhone 5 in 24 hours, and that many deliveries would be pushed back into October because of strong demand. "iPhone 5 pre-orders have shattered the previous record held by iPhone 4S and the customer response to iPhone 5 has been phenomenal," said Philip Schiller, Apple's senior vice president of worldwide marketing. "Demand for iPhone 5 exceeds the initial supply and while the majority of pre-orders will be delivered to customers on September 21, many are scheduled to be delivered in October," an Apple statement said.-AFP
Employees prefer face-to-face communication NEW YORK: Mobile phones and emails may have become common tools for contact among people but majority of employees, including those of younger generation, still prefer face-to-face communication at work. As per a survey of employees and managers in the US, 60 per cent of those aged over 55 years preferred face-to-face communications at work. About 55 per cent of those aged 25-34 also liked to follow this route. Face-to-face communication is followed by emails and text messages as the second preferred option (28 per cent for over 55 years age and 35 per cent for aged between 25-34).-PTI
India Post News Service
NEW JERSEY: Asian American Retailers Association (AARA) organized an annual tradeshow on September 12 at NJ Convention & Exposition Center to bring retailers and vendors closer. AARA is a New Jersey based non-profit organization of convenience stores, gas stations and liquor stores. More than 130 exhibitors and 2500 retailers took part in the Trade Show. There were companies like Dietz & Watson, Redbull, First Data, Allen Brothers, Miller-Coors, DIAGEO and many other who participated. There was a free testing offered by Wine & Liquor Distributors. Other vendors also offered a taste of candies, ice-cream and energy drinks. According to Prashant Desai, AARA President, "The association was started to help retailers and give them voice, tools and programs to succeed. AARA Tradeshow is an opportunity to learn about new products and strategies. The main objective of the tradeshow is to increase industry awareness within retailers." "It is a buying show so there are many Tradeshow Specials offered by different Vendors." said Bipin Patel, Chairman of Board of Trustees. He also said "Every year AARA Tradeshow has become bigger and more informative. Retailers came from all over New Jersey and a large number of retailers
also came from PA, NY and CT as well. " "One idea can change your entire business and AARA Show gives retailer an opportunity for
AARA Executive Vice President, Jayesh Amin said, "It is really important for everyone to keep updating themselves with the industry so it is important to attend
More than 130 exhibitors and 2500 retailers took part in the Trade Show. There were companies like Dietz & Watson, Redbull, First Data, Allen Brothers, Miller-Coors, DIAGEO and many other who participated. There was a free testing offered by Wine & Liquor Distributors. Other vendors also offered a taste of candies, ice-cream and energy drinks networking, learning about new products, sharing market information" said Vipul Patel, Vice President of Association.
Tradeshows like this." A number of distributors and wholesalers exhibited at the show with their products and services.
ATM machines, packaging materials, and other products were offered for the benefit of retailers. Some distributors adopted innovative approach to draw attention of visitors at the show. Jeff Allen of Allen Brothers said, "This is the best tradeshow in the north east region and the response from retailers is amazing." AARA is a non-profit organization representing more than 1200 member stores that include convenience stores, gas stations and liquor stores in New Jersey. AARA is an association, which develops policy, creates economic incentives, communicates vital information, exposes new products and services, and offers tools and strategies for retailers' growth. This diverse combination of programs makes AARA a unique forum.
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September 28, 2012
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5 Indian-Americans in Forbes list of US' richest NEW YORK: Five IndianAmericans, including Silicon Valley venture capitalist Vinod Khosla and founder of IT major Syntel, Bharat Desai, have been named among the richest people in the US by Forbes, a list of 400 billionaires topped by Microsoft founder Bill Gates. Gates, 56, whose net worth grew seven billion dollars from a year earlier to USD 66 billion in 2012, topped the list for the 19th year in a row. He is followed by Berkshire Hathaway Inc.'s Buffett (No 2) with USD 46 billion, also up USD 7 billion from last year, and Oracle Corp's Larry Ellison (No. 3) with USD 41 billion, up USD 8 billion - and the biggest dollar gainer this year. Desai with a net worth of two billion dollars as of September 2012 has been ranked 239 in Forbes' annual list released on Wednesday. Desai, 59, started Syntel in 1980 with his wife while earning his MBA from the University of Michigan. An IIT Mumbai alumnus, Desai stepped down as chief executive of the firm in 2009 but remains chairman. Founder and Chairman of the Symphony Technology Group, Romesh Wadhwani is ranked 250 with a net worth USD 1.9 billion. Google board member and shareholder Kavitark Ram Shriram
Bharat Desai
Vinod Khosla
Romesh Wadhwani
occupies the 298th rank with a net worth of USD 1.6 billion. Manoj Bhargava, founder and CEO of the popular energy drink '5-hour energy' is ranked 311 and has a USD 1.5 billion net worth. He is followed by Khosla on the
Forbes magazine said in a statement. A graduate of Carnegie Mellon University and IIT Mumbai, Wadhwani, 65, developed business software firm Aspect Development which he sold in 2000 dur-
one of the roads less traveled to the American Dream." Described as a math whiz, Bhargava lived as a monk in the mountains of India for 12 years before returning to the US to forge a successful career in plastics. Forbes said Stanford and IIT alumnus Khosla, 57, "isn't afraid to fail. His firm also had a stake in social enterprise software company Yammer, which was purchased by Microsoft in July for USD 1.2 billion. A Google board member and large shareholder, Shriram, 55, has stakes in online outsourcer 24/7 Customer and serendipitous website picker StumbleUpon. He also invested in Inkling, which makes interactive textbooks for the iPad. He serves as a trustee at Stanford University, where he and
A "notable" newcomer on the list, Bhargava, 59, is a Princeton University drop out who "chose one of the roads less traveled to the American Dream." Described as a math whiz, Bhargava lived as a monk in the mountains of India for 12 years before returning to the US to forge a successful career in plastics 328th rank and a USD 1.4 billion net worth. The net worth of the richest Americans grew by 13 percent in the past year to USD 1.7 trillion,
ing the height of the tech bubble for USD 9.3 billion. A "notable" newcomer on the list, Bhargava, 59, is a Princeton University drop out who "chose
Manoj Bhargava
Kavitark Ram Shriram
his wife endowed the Shriram Family Professorship in Science Education. Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has been pushed down in the rankings to the no. 36 spot with his estimated net worth falling by about USD 8 billion to USD 9.4 billion since Facebook went public in May. -PTI
Firm linked to Sahai's brother loses coal block NEW DELHI: The Government has de-allocated two coal blocks, including one associated with brother of Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahai, even as the Inter-Ministerial Group recommended punitive action against a firm owned by Congress MP
Naveen Jindal. The government also decided to deduct bank guarantees of two companies - Tata Sponge Iron and Bhushan Ltd - for failure to develop blocks allocated to them in Odisha during the prescribed time
frame, an official statement said. A coal block allotted to SKS Ispat and Power Ltd, in which Sudhir Kumar Sahai is honorary Director was de-allocated by the government on the recommendation of IMG earlier. Sudhir Kumar is the brother of the Tourism Min-
ister. Significantly, Subodh Kant Sahai, senior Congress leader, had reportedly written to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2007 recommending allocation of two coal blocks to SKS Ispat and Power in
Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. The Prime Minister was holding Coal portfolio at that time. The other coal block approved for de-allocation by the government is New Patrapara in Odisha, given to Bhushan Steel in January 2007. The block has extractable reserves of 316 million tonnes (MT). Besides, the government also accepted IMG recommendation to deduct bank guarantees of Radhikapur East coal block allotted to Tata Sponge Iron & others, and Bijahan Coal Block allotted to Bhushan Ltd. Meanwhile, the IMG has recommended deduction of bank guarantee of two blocks including Jitpur, given to Jindal Steel & Power Ltd (JSPL) in which Congress MP Naveen Jindal is Chairman cum Managing Director (CMD). The amount of the bank guarantee was not immediately known. The IMG has recommended deallocation of Macherkunda block given to Bihar Sponge, an official source said. The IMG also asked for deducting bank guarantee of two others - Jitpur, given to Jindal Steel and
Power (JSPL) owned by Naveen Jindal and Chitarpur, allotted to Corporate Ispat, the source said. Incidentally these three blocks find mention in CAG's recent report which has estimated that undue benefits to the tune of Rs 1.86 lakh crore might accrue to private firms on account of allocation of 57 mines to them without auction. The Jitpur mine in Jharkhand
Macherkunda block in Jharkhand was given to Bihar Sponge in August 2008 and has an extractable reserve of 8.82 MT. Likewise, Chitarpur block in Jharkhand, which was given to Corporate Ispat & Alloys in September 2005, has 58.6 MT of extractable reserves. With the de-allocation of two more blocks, the total number of
Significantly, Subodh Kant Sahai, senior Congress leader, had reportedly written to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2007 recommending allocation of two coal blocks to SKS Ispat and Power in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. The Prime Minister was holding Coal portfolio at that time was allotted to JSPL in February 2007 and has an extractable reserve of 65.53 million tonnes. The coal from it was meant to be used for an end-use power plant with a capacity of 2X600 MW, to be built about 20 km away from the pit head of the mine.
mines that have faced this action has increased to seven. Bank guarantee of seven firms have been deducted. The IMG has so far recommended de-allocation of eight blocks and deduction of bank guarantee in case of 10 more.-PTI
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TechBiz Post
India Post
September 28, 2012
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Global energy majors line up at TAPI project LONDON: Global energy majors ExxonMobil Corp, Royal Dutch Shell, Chevron Corp and Petronas of Malaysia queued up at a roadshow organized here to rope in a strategic investor for executing the ambitious TAPI gas pipeline. The Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) project countries invited firms which can become consortium leaders for executing the 1,680-km crosscountry project, an official participating in the event said. Besides, lead financiers too were invited at the road show to determine the market and conditions under which qualified firms would participate in the project. "We had representatives of ExxonMobil, Shell, Chevron, Petronas and Temasek (the Singapore-based Asia investment firm) at the roadshow," he said. "Preliminary discussions were held but nothing has been finalized so far." Such roadshows - where representatives of the four nations along with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the lead development partner for the project, held discussions with potential contrac-
tors - were previously held in Singapore on September 10 and New York on September 13. "The idea behind the road shows is to interact with prospective consortium leaders and financiers of the project to understand their requirement," he said. After the road shows are over,
The entire process of selection, selection of the consortium leader and finding the investors is expected to take one year. The construction of the pipeline is expected to start in 2015 the delegation will move to Ashgabat (Turkmenistan) on September 22-23 for the Technical Working Group (TWG) and Steering Committee (SC) meetings of the project. The TAPI pipeline - which would originate from
Turkmenistan, and pass through Afghanistan and Pakistan before entering India - will have a capacity to carry 90 million standard cubic meters a day (mmscmd) gas for a 30-year period and will be operational in 2018. India and Pakistan would get 38 mmscmd each, while the remaining 14 mmscmd will be supplied to Afghanistan. The official said the road shows are aimed at "selling" the ambitious project to oil companies and financiers and invite investment for it. The entire process of selection, selection of the consortium leader and finding the investors is expected to take one year. The construction of the pipeline is expected to start in 2015. After the road shows, bids will be invited to select the consortium leader who will be responsible for the design, funding, building, control and subsequent operations of the pipeline. The US is backing the TAPI pipeline as an alternative to the Iran-Pakistan-India line in its efforts to choke Tehran financially over its suspected nuclear weapon program.
While New Delhi had reached agreements on price and transit clauses for the IPI pipeline, TAPI is the first transnational line for which it signed a Gas Sales and Purchase Agreement (GSPA) in May this year. Besides meeting its energy needs, TAPI would be test of
Sources said India will pay for the gas only when it is delivered to it at its border. Afghanistan and Pakistan would get USD 0.50 per million British thermal unit as transit fee from India peace between India and Pakistan. More importantly, it will test Islamabad's resolve to normalize trade with its neighbor by allowing safe passage of the gas through the 800 km section of the pipeline passing through its territory.
Also, the 735-km leg through the Afghan provinces of Herat and Kandahar would present significant security challenges. TAPI will carry gas from Turkmenistan's Galkynysh field, better known by its previous name South Yoiotan Osman that holds gas reserves of 16 trillion cubic feet. From the field, the pipeline will run to Herat and Kandahar province of Afghanistan, before entering Pakistan. In Pakistan, it will reach Multan via Quetta before ending at Fazilka (Punjab) in India. Sources said India will pay for the gas only when it is delivered to it at its border. Afghanistan and Pakistan would get USD 0.50 per million British thermal unit as transit fee from India. Ex-Soviet Turkmenistan is promoting TAPI pipeline as a key element in plans to cut reliance on supplies to Russia and to boost annual gas exports to 180 billion cubic meters by 2030. BP data show Turkmenistan's natural gas reserves to be equal to those of Saudi Arabia and behind only Russia, Iran and Qatar. PTI
Gujarat has a strong system Google becomes online advertising king to enable PPP projects LONDON: Terming the Gujarat government as "fiscally credible", a two-year review of the Indian infrastructure sector conducted by London's financial district lauds the state's performance in implementing public-private partnership (PPP) projects. The review by the City of London released during a seminar on
India said that the legal framework for PPP in the state is "solid", and that the Gujarat Infrastructure Development Act (1999) sets a "comprehensive framework" for a variety of projects. During the seminar attended
by leading lights of India's business and financial sectors, development in western Indian state of Gujarat was described as "amazing" by Nasser Munjee, Chairman of Development Credit Bank. The City of London refers to a small part of London and often stands for the UK's financial services industry. The City has an office in Mumbai, in Indian state of Maharashta, to strengthen trade and investment links between India and the UK. The Gujarat Infrastructure Development Board (GIDB) oversees PPP projects and provides a "relatively high standard of expertise and judgment", the review said. "Institutionally, Gujarat has a strong system, with a clear delineation of responsibilities between the GIDB, and the line departments of procuring govern-
ment agencies. The technical expertise of GIDB is also adjudged to be high," it added. The GIDB provides a fair and clear mechanism for the selection of concessionaires, and "in practice, this system typically works well", the review said. "In terms of financing, Gujarat is in a strong position, having emerged as a top investment destination in India; the government is also fiscally credible, meaning that payment risk is considered very low," it said. The Gujarat State Guarantee Redemption Fund (initiated in 2010) acts as a cushion for contingent liabilities arising out of state guarantees, the review adds, and quotes a recent report of the Asian Development Bank that the state is the "best destination" in India for PPP projects. Overall, the review for the years 2010-2012 concludes that while India's PPP framework has improved, further coordination at a central level is needed, "as well as improvement to governance capabilities for infrastructure projects across India if it is to meet its infrastructure development target". -PTI
WASHINGTON: Google has become the US market leader in online display ads, and now leads all categories for Internet advertising including search and mobile, a market research firm said. The firm eMarketer said Google will top the market for online display advertising with USD 2.31 billion in revenues 15.4 per cent of the market - in 2012. Google will thus overtake Facebook in display, after the social network dethroned longtime leader Yahoo! last year, eMarketer said. The milestone means Google now holds more share than any other company in each of the US search, display and mobile advertising markets. Google will see a 38 per cent jump in online display ad revenue this year, the report said. Facebook, the consultancy said, will earn USD 2.16 billion in
US display ad revenues this year, up 24.4 per cent from billion last year. Facebook's share will be 14.4 per cent. Yahoo! will see nearly flat revenues for display ads, which will mean its market share will fall to 9.3 per cent this year from 11 per cent last year and 14 per cent in 2010.
The eMarketer estimate said the overall US display ad market will grow 21.5 per cent to USD 14.98 billion from USD 12.33 billion in 2011, aided by mobile growth; and increased spending growth on digital video advertising, especially on Google-owned YouTube. -AFP
TechBiz Post
September 28, 2012
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Reebok's ex-MD, COO among five arrested for fraud GURGAON: Reebok India's sacked MD Subhinder Singh and former COO Vishnu Bhagat have been arrested along with three others for their alleged involvement in a Rs 870-crore fraud in the company. Singh, Prem along with the three others - Sanjay Mishra, Prashant Bhatnagar and Surakshit Bhatt - have been arrested and will be produced in court where "we will seek their custody", said Assistant Commissioner of Police Bhupinder Singh, who heads the special investigation team probing the case. Subhinder Singh and Bhat were booked for fraud, criminal conspiracy and other charges under IPC for allegedly siphoning off the sportswear maker company's money by creating ghost distributors across the country and generating forged bills over the last
five years. When the alleged scam came to light in March 2012, Singh, who had been made the Managing Di-
Subhinder Singh
rector of Adidas India last year as a part of an integration of the businesses of both Adidas and Reebok brands, was dismissed
from the company. Bhat's services were terminated too. The company's financial director, Shahim Padath, later lodged a formal complaint against the duo. The economic cell of Gurgaon police conducted a probe and found that Singh and Bhat had allegedly rented four warehouses without informing their seniors and used them to store goods and claimed they were supplied to genuine dealers. They also allegedly siphoned off goods to ghost companies and distributors across the country, claiming they were defective pieces. On the complaint of Shahim, an FIR was lodged against them. Singh and Bhat have denied the charges. -PTI
Nat IT Policy okayed; to make 1 per family e-literate
Odisha approves Rs 26,000 cr investment
NEW DELHI: The government billion to USD 200 billion by 2020. has approved the National Policy The policy will also promote on Information Technology, which innovation and R&D in cutting aims to make at least one individual edge technologies and developin every household e-literate ment of applications and solutions among other objectives, DEITy in areas like localization, locationSecretary J Satyanarayana has based services, mobile-value said. added services, cloud computing, "The IT policy has been cleared social media and utility models. by the Government of India reIt will provide fiscal benefits to cently and the Policy addresses small and medium enterprises and number of issues regarding the de- startups in key industrial sectors velopment of the ICT sector and using it for the growth of the coun- The Policy envisions try, not only from the strengthening India's posipoint of exports... "...but an equal em- tion as the global IT hub and phasis on the domestic sector as well," Depart- using technology as an ment of Electronics and IT (DEITy) Secretary J engine for rapid, inclusive Satyanarayana told PTI and sustainable growth of at the sidelines of the Skoch Summit here. the national economy He added the industry's goal is to reach USD 100 billion turnover and for adoption of IT in value creUSD 200 billion of exports by 2020. ation, besides, aiming to create a The Policy envisions strength- pool of 10 million additional skilled ening India's position as the glo- manpower in Information and bal IT hub and using technology Communication technologies and as an engine for rapid, inclusive make at least one individual in evand sustainable growth of the na- ery household e-literate. tional economy. The Policy is also expected to The policy aims to help in- provide for mandatory delivery of crease revenues of the Indian IT and affordable access to all public and ITeS industry from USD 88 services in electronic mode to enbillion to USD 300 billion by 2020 hance transparency and accountand ramp up exports from USD 59 ability. -PTI
BHUBANESWAR: Taking forward its plans to industrialize the state, the Odisha government has approved investments worth Rs 26,076 crore in different sectors including that of aluminium major Nalco to set up a smelter plant and a captive power unit. "The High Level Clearance Authority (HLCA) chaired by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik approved six projects involving investment of Rs 26,076.89 crore. A total of 4,303 people will get direct employment in the projects," Chief Secretary B K Patnaik told reporters. Nalco's proposal for setting up a 0.5 mtpa smelter unit and a 1260 MW capacity captive power plant has got the nod of the state government, Patnaik said, adding that the Navratna PSU would invest Rs 16,345.89 crore. Nalco's proposed smelter and CPP plants require 2,500 acre in Sundergarh district and would provide direct employment to 3,400 people. "The project requires 50 cusec of water which would be provided from Hirakud reservoir," he said. The CPSU already has a coal block which would meet the company's coal requirement, he said. Uttam Galva Steel Ltd which has a steel project in Keonjhar district, proposed to set up a HR Coil plant of 2mtpa capacity at Kalinga Nagar at an investment of Rs 4,000 crore.-PTI
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Shreya has been performing all over the world and captivating audiences with her charming personality and musical ability
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Audience at Ghosal concert
Shreya Ghosal singing at her concert in Chicago Asian Media USA
CHICAGO: Sahil and L.A. Tan, the local Chicago promoters, presented Shreya Ghoshal Live in Concert at Akoo Theatre, in Rosement Friday, September 14. On public demand Shreya sang some old golden melodies in addition to her own, newer hit songs. The program started with entry of Iqubal Jafri as MC and a few performances by local artists starting with songs from Ms. Dasgupta, Pasha, a dance with song by Komal Sharma and a young dancer Nisha. All these warmed up the audience eager to hear Shreya. Amidst screaming proclamations of love from fans with rhythmic claps and audible hums, Shreya unfolded her repertoire of soothing love songs, delectable duets with up and coming singer Prithvi (who often drew attention with his deep, powerful vocals) and vigorous danceable numbers. In addition Iquabal Jafri also sang few songs. So there was ' 'Tujh mein rabb dikhta hai', 'Teri oru, teri oru', 'Naino ko dheere dheere', 'Tere mast mast do nain', 'Piya bole', 'Mashaallah', 'Ooh la la' and 'Chikni chameli'. She flitted through contrasting expressions and styles even traveling back in time to
Shreya Ghosal Concert oganizers (L-R) Mayur Patel, Bhavesh Patel, Shreya Ghosal, Babu Patel and Nick Patel
render the hauntingly melodic 'Lag ja gale'. With a twinkling smile and relaxed demeanor she took up listeners' requests that reverberated through the packed hall. There's no chance
of a retake in a live show. She sang a number of songs to the demand of audience and tried to satisfy all with her sweet voice. 'Bairi Piya' from Devdas that heralded her entry into playback singing was served by Shreya as a rich dessert to wind up a hearty meal spiced well with sur and taal. The orchestra gathered around Shreya to play an effective supporting role while she herself drew upon all of her stamina and technique to deliver a mercurial 'no break' two-and-a-half hour concert. Light effects and sound system were very well synchronized. Shreya has been performing all over the world and captivating audiences with her charming personality and musical ability. After winning numerous awards for her melodious tracks, Shreya Ghoshal impressed music lovers at Akoo Theater, Chicago. Thus began her USA/Canada tour.
September 28, 2012
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Delhi girl wins Carolee design award which Carolee implemented throughout the spring. And the winners are: Palwasha Iqbal in the Fashion category; Yoonji Choi in the Pearls category; Prakshi Sharma in the Social/Bridal category; and Christine Gonzalez in the Metals category. The People's Choice winner is Elyse Spencer, whose pieces will be at retail in November for the holidays. For each FIT design sold, Carolee will donate $5 to The Breast Cancer Research Foundation.
Carolee FIT Student Designs. (PRNewsFoto/CAROLEE)
KRISHAN SHARMA India Post News Service
NEW YORK: Leading fashion jewelry company Carolee has announced winners of its year-long jewelry design competition with New York's Fashion Institute of Technology. Among the winners is Prakshi Sharma, a graduate from FIT who won the top award for social/bridal category. The competition has been a key part of the company's 40th Anniversary celebration this year, which carries the theme 'Carolee: Then and Now'. The FIT competition, deemed the "Now" part of that program, was aimed at ushering in a new generation of Carolee while honoring the heritage and
DNA of the brand. Guided by the FIT Jewelry Design Department and the design team at Carolee, the students began the process at the beginning of the 2011 school year and presented their final designs for judging in the spring 2012 semester. In addition to winning $1000 apiece, all five winners' jewelry designs have been manufactured by Carolee and are making their debut in major US and international department stores fall 2012. The competition had four key categories central to the brand: Pearls, Metals, Fashion and Bridal/Social. A fifth "People's Choice" winner was voted online through a Facebook contest with videos of the student's designs,
The competition had four key categories central to the brand: Pearls, Metals, Fashion and Bridal/Social. A fifth "People's Choice" winner was voted online through a Facebook contest Karen O'Brien, VP of Marketing Carolee, said, "Our collaboration with FIT provided us an excellent way to celebrate our 40th Anniversary. In the design process, we have had the privilege of both teaching the students how to design jewelry for the retail market and learning each of their unique creative processes. We are thrilled to be able to bring the winners' very first designs to the marketplace." The collections officially de-
Carolee's FIT Student Design Competition Winners: (Left to Right) Palwasha Iqbal, Prakshi Sharma, Elyse Spencer, Yoonji Choi, and Christine Gonzalez. (PRNewsFoto/Carolee)
buted at a special event on the first floor at Bloomingdale's 59th Street on September 13. Students met with VIPs from the store, FIT, and The Breast Cancer Research Foundation, and their pieces were shown in Bloomingdale's windows. Prakshi - Living her dream Prakshi Sharma, a 23-year-old aspiring jewelry designer from the capital city of India, has come to live her dream in New York City. A naturally gifted designer, Prakshi is passionate about creating something new every day. This highly pampered child has managed to live so far away from her family, her sole drive being to become a successful designer. She hopes to make her family and friends back in India proud.
Though jewelry making began as an "accidental love," it grew into a unique and compelling "passion" for Prakshi. She followed her heart and after her bachelors in Economics, she switched to jewelry design. Trained by the best in the field, Prakshi graduated from the Fashion Institute of Technology. Her designs are global and reflect the city that she inhabits. Inspired by the snake charmer and "big fat Indian weddings," Prakshi has developed a Bridal Collection for Carolee. Her designs are urban, culturally diverse and infused with artistic inspiration. Prakshi's designs combine Old World aesthetics with New World fashion, resulting in breathtakingly unique, wearable works of art.
Kiran's painting to be displayed at Le Louvre India Post News Service
NEW DELHI: Kiran Soni Gupta, a senior bureaucrat from Rajasthan and a versatile artist, has established new heights in the field of visual arts. She is the first artist from Rajasthan who will get the honor to share her artwork at the most coveted platform, Le Louvre, which is
Her painting entitled "Poojatime" has been selected for display at Le Louvre. Societe Nationale Des Beaux Arts has selected her artwork for a very prestigious exposition at Louvre one of the world's largest museums, the most visited art museum in the world and a historic monument. It is a central landmark of Paris, France. Her painting entitled "Poojatime" has been selected for display at Le Louvre. Societe Nationale Des Beaux Arts has selected her artwork for a very prestigious exposition at Louvre. The exposition shall be from Dec 13th to 16th. Kiran has been recently honored with the "Nari Prathibha Samman" and was conferred with the" Kala
The selected painting 'Poojatime'
Samridhi Award in 2010," Artist of the Year 2009" and "Special Achiever Award 2009". She was also given the "Kala Shiromani Award" in 2008. One of her paintings on the 'Famine' depicting its impact on women and children in India won the National Award in 2003. The artist has held more than two dozen solo art shows in major cities in India and in foreign countries including New York, Boston, Los Angeles, Seattle, Chicago, Toronto, Tehran, Kandy, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Ludhiana, Jaipur and Naggar in Kulu.
Kiran Soni Gupta
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September 28, 2012 www.indiapost.com
Jinn, a tension filled supernatural thriller
India Post News Service
LOS ANGELES, CA: Freestyle Releasing has acquired the domestic theatrical rights to Jinn, a tension filled supernatural thriller from Detroit-based Exxodus Pictures. The film, written and directed by Ajmal Zaheer Ahmad, was produced by Ahmad and Benjamin Dresser, and stars Ray Park ("Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace"), Faran Tahir ("Iron Man", "Star Trek"), William Atherton ("Die Hard", "Ghostbusters"), Serinda Swan (A&E's "Breakout Kings"), and Dominic Rains ("Flight 93"). Richard Mandell, Najam Syed and Shahid Syed executive produced the film for Exxodus. The amazing story of Jinn involves an-
cient mythological creatures who have never been seen in U.S. cinemas before. The premise of the Jinn concept, known to over 1 billion people around the world, involves
powerful due to their existence in a parallel world, and also because they have free will and can be both good and evil. The film has already generated a lot of
The "Firebreather" is a V8, 618 horsepower super exotic American muscle car with 50 limited editions being produced as the exact replica of the vehicle in the film. The car, several of which have already been sold, was designed by Exxodus Pictures to honor the Detroit automotive industry supernatural entities and revolves around creation mythology: In the beginning, three were created; man made of clay; angels made of light; and a third...made of fire. They are
early attention online, as the teaser trailer and links to other related material have generated over 2.5 million combined hits. Jinn is also unique in that the hero vehicle used in the film, known as the "Firebreather," was designed by the director and is the first vehicle in motion picture history available to the public for purchase.
The "Firebreather" is a V8, 618 horsepower super exotic American muscle car with 50 limited editions being produced as the exact replica of the vehicle in the film. The car, several of which have already been sold, was designed by Exxodus Pictures to honor the Detroit automotive industry by creating a modern vehicle with the soul of classic American muscle.
Vidya Balan to tie the knot
NEW DELHI: Bollywood's top actress Vidya Balan, who has been in a steady relation with UTV CEO Siddharth Roy Kapur, is all set to say 'I do' this year. And if the reports of the power couple's wedding are to be relied on, the marriage might happen by the end of this year. After publicly announcing her relationship with Siddharth last year, Vidya was often seen with her beau in private parties and making trips for holidays abroad. Last heard, the couple bought a posh love nest in a Mumbai suburb close to the sea. How-
ever, the lovey-dovey duo is yet to make a public announcement of their rumored wedding. Yet, sources close to Vidya and Sid have revealed that the couple is focusing on final preparations of the marriage which might see the day of light in December this year. Well, congrats to the couple for the good news and we just hope that these two won't put us off by starting another round of acceptance and denials just like how Saifeena did.
September 28, 2012
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Big names at educational conference on Bollywood Kapur & Kareena Kapoor). Ali also directed Love Aaj Kal and Socha Na Tha. Most recently, Ali wrote the script for Cocktail (Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone). • Zoya Akhtar: FilmFare Award for Best Director for Zindagi Na Milege Dobara (Hrithik Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, Katrina Kaif). Also directed Luck by Chance (Konkana Sen Sharma) and writer of soonto-be-released Taalash (Aamir Khan, Rani Mukherjee, and Kareena Kapoor).
India Post News Service
NEW YORK: New York and Mumbaibased Molecule Communications unveils its first Bollywood event in the Big Apple, Ticket2Bollywood. The two-day educational conference, themed Bollywood: Beyond the Song and Dance, features some of the most successful Indian filmmakers in the business. It also provides a platform for aspiring and established actors, directors,
Anuraadha Tewari Imtiaz Ali
Madhur Bhandarkar
and producers to glean "insider" information about direction, production, script writing, and financing movies in the largest film industry in the world - Bollywood.
The conference is scheduled for October 6 and 7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Dream Downtown Hotel (355 W 16th St., between 8th and 9th Avenues). The roster of powerhouse Bollywood "household" names includes: • Madhur Bhandarkar: National Awardwinner for Best Director for Traffic Signal and director of National Award-winning movies Chandni Bar (Tabu), Page 3, and Fashion (Priyanka Chopra). At the end of September, Bhandarkar is releasing the mostawaited movie of the year, Heroine (Kareena Kapoor, Arjun Rampal). • Imtiaz Ali: Nominated for Best Director for recent super hit Rockstar (Ranbir Kapoor) and 2007's Jab We Met (Shahid
Zoya Akhtar
• Anuraadha Tewari: Gold Medalist for Direction from Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, and script writer of Fashion, Jail, and soon-to-be-released Heroine.
• At a time in our film history when Bollywood and Indian independent movies are in the international media spotlight, whether it is at Cannes, Sundance, or at the Oscars," says Molecule Communications Director Ajay Shrivastav, "we want to educate anyone who is interested in Bollywood about what it takes to make a film a 'hit.' Our films have gone beyond the Bollywood that portrayed couples 'fake' kissing surreptitiously behind trees or having arranged marriages because they had no choice. This young crop of directors and writers is capturing the 'truest' sense of what it means to grow up Indian in a global world, and we are thrilled to be presenting all of them together for the first time in the United States during the 100th year of Indian cinema."
Horoscope
28 India Post
September 28, 2012
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Your Weekly Future by Pandit Parashar
SEPTEMBER 28TH - OCTOBER 04TH (November 23 to December 22)
(March 21 to April 20)
C
hildren will continue to do well and you may be slowly getting ready for a short vacation. You may write a check to government in shape of a fine or penalty. Stress will reduce and you will be looking forward as all signs will be positive. Try to stay clear of people who proved trouble makers in the past.
Y
ou will continue to meet your commitments on time but will hardly have anything left. Offer you had been waiting for can come during the week. You will become religious and may plan some kind of prayers at your place. This is a better week for people in sales. You may have some visitors at your place this summer.
(April 21 to May 20)
A
government agency will give headache and you will definitely need some outside help to resolve this issue. Try to stay clear of situations that can hurt your image in close circle. You will be exploring some new avenues to improve your revenues. You may have pain in the right shoulder. Property deal can finally materialize this week.
(December 22 to January 19)
E
xpenses will not leave you alone but it will all go on good reasons. Suddenly you may develop taste for sweets and have the chance to relish food of your choice this week. You will have some work done in or around the property too. Children will make plans for a short vacation and it could be a road trip to another state. (January 20 to February 18)
(May 21 to June 20)
S
taying double minded will make things worse. Make up your mind and move on, that's the word from planets this week. Some of you may need to meet your dentist also. Business will improve but still not well enough. Offer may not look attractive now but will bring stability in life. You will become more health conscious and make changes in diet. (June 21 to July 22)
Y
ou will need outside help to tackle the problem before it take a mammoth shape. Remedy might sound expensive but it's better to kill the problem now and get on with your life. Some of you will be getting ready to launch another major project in association with people close to you. You will be taking a trip to a costal area with family. (July 23 to August 22)
S
tress will reduce and you will be working less hours. Past efforts will pay off now and soon you will be rewarded. You will be shaking hands with a well known group and this could be the beginning of an adventurous journey. You will spend quality time with some powerful people and learn a lot. Money wise you will stay comfortable.
M
ind will stay restless. Running around will not go waste. Storm will settle down and you can expect more stability in career from now and on. Soon you will be taking trip to a real nice place. It will be better to dispose off money making stocks and wait for another week to buy them back. (February 19 to March 20)
T
ake care of your health. Money will come and go on buying some expensive items for self or the house. Legal matters will take a favorable turn and you will become optimistic. Competition will reduce a lot and people creating hurdles will quit the scene. You will give final shape to a short family vacation also and slowly start preparations.
Diana Penty will excel in romantic roles
(August 23 to September 22)
M
oney will be an issue in mind all the time. Boss will become more demanding. Your search for another proper job will continue. You will be spending lots of money on children this week. You may be spending more time away from home for business purpose. You will be working on a long distance trip and coordinate with people on other side. (September 23 to October 22)
P
resence of Venus and Mars can bring you very close to an inter esting person. It will not be a very good idea to open up very quickly and pass on all the information. Money wise you will start to do better from now and will see money in savings too. A property deal can bring some extra cash. You will be tempted to visit an old friend. (October 23 to November 22)
T
hings will keep getting more challenging every day at work. Some of you will be preparing for a highly competitive exam that can bring drastic changes in career. Expenses will stay under controls and you will have some money in the bank. There will be movement on pending appeal and the justice would be served in your favor soon.
Pandit Parashar, CEO & COO Astro Scan USA is also available for individual consultations. He can be reached at: parashar@parashar.com
D
iana Penty is Scorpion by the Zodiac sign. Born 2nd November 1985, she shares her birthday with Shah Rukh Khan. With her Bollywood debut through the film Cocktail she is at the threshold of best time of her career and with right decisions and talent she will definitely reach new heights. Diana Penty entered Bollywood with the movie Cocktail. Her numbers are as follows: Psychic - 2, Destiny - 9, Name Number - 35. Her Sun is in Libra. Like SRK she will do excellent in romantic roles. But the question is how good her numbers are. Psychic 2 with destiny 9 creates controversies but at the same time can give a boost to someone's career all of a sudden. This is exactly what happened with Diana. Her first movie was with the superstars of Bollywood, Saif and Deepika. She is currently in her 27th (Number 9) year which is the same as her destiny number. When we total her date of birth, it comes to 27. So definitely this year has brought good positive change in her life. Her name Number 35 is not great. Also for Number 8 name to work you need to have a psychic or destiny 3 which is missing in her date. She might get some good movies initially but later on she will have to struggle with Name Number 35. Very soon we will see her changing the spelling of her name like a lot of other struggling actors and actresses are doing.
925-833-7170
website: www.parashar.com
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D
arjeeling's velvety green hills abound in tea plan tations, orchids and immense natural beauty. With its proximity to the snow clad peaks, every morning as the sun rises Darjeeling offers bird's eye views of the grand mountains of the Himalayas. On clear days one can even see the Mt. Everest all the way across Nepal. As the fog lifts and the sun rises upwards, the town gradually comes alive, amidst brewing of tea, the sing-song Gorkhali which is the local dialect, rises and falls like music. Darjeeling is also famous for some of the best teas in the world, in fact connoisseurs know that the name Darjeeling is now synonymous with `Orange Pekoe' tea itself. Another historical landmark here is the little toy train that comes chugging up all the way from Siliguri, a relic of times gone by. This train was built by the British and still runs on the same route and at the same rate at which it did then, covering a journey of 82 kms in 6 hours. It offers tremendously panoramic vistas on route as it hugs the hillside and winds its way up passing through forests, waterfalls, over deep valleys and through the mountains and tunnels. The warm and friendly locals of Darjeeling consist of the Gurungs from Western Nepal, other Gurkha races from eastern Nepal, Bhutias and Lepchas from Sikkim and Dukpas from Bhutan. Cont’d on page 30
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Sri Lanka, Mastercard deal to woo Indians COLOMBO: Sri Lanka's Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB) has signed an agreement with Mastercard Worldwide to attract Indian tourists to the island nation. "This agreement will see Mastercard and Sri Lanka tourism exploring implementing activities targeted at Sri Lanka tourism market," Mastercard Worldwide (South Asia) President T V Sheshadri told reporters here. He said the company will pro-
mote Sri Lankan tourism in India through several initiatives. At present, India is Sri Lanka's largest inbound travel market. Over 1.5 lakh Indians visited Sri Lanka in 2011, which is over 20 per cent of the total arrivals. Sheshadri said there were 12.9 crore Mastercard holders in India. SLTPB Head Rumy Jauffer said they target at least 1 lakh Indian tourists through the partnership with Mastercard.
"This alliance underscores our optimism regarding the potential of Sri Lanka's tourism industry," Sheshadri said. Tourism development, a key element in the island's postconflict growth, is expected to attract 2.5 million arrivals from across the globe by 2016, SLTPB said, adding that Sri Lanka has made concerted efforts to improve the tourist industry infrastructure. -PTI
September 28, 2012
'Tourism to be a major source of employment' NEW DELHI: Tourism sector will be a major source of employment in India in the years to come, Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahai has said. Addressing the golden jubilee celebrations of Institute of Hotel Management, Catering and Nutrition here, he said "while the agriculture sector provides jobs to 45 people per
Rs 10 lakh, tourism provides employment to 78 people per Rs 10 lakh as per a Planning Commission finding." "India has the potential market for tourism and has set a target to achieve 12 per cent growth in tourism sector by 2016. If this is achieved, we will be able to create 25 million additional jobs," Sahai said. -PTI
Darjeeling: Bird's eye views of grand Himalayan peaks
Darjeeling tea garden worker. Cont’d from page 29
The local fare is rice and meat, curry and momos, which are steamed dumplings, and of course, chow, the locally made noodles. This is generally accompanied by chhang, a locally brewed wine made from millet or the jaad, which is made from fermented rice. The Gurkhas are staunch Hindus and celebrate all Hindu festivals with equal dedication. Dussehra surprisingly is the most popular Gurkha festival here. Batasia Loop: The legendary toy train of Darjeeling takes a sharp turn at this loop just 5 kms short of the main town. This place also has an interesting market that sells purses, bags and other decorative items
flowers and orchids. The gardens also have a charming little green house. Chowrasta: One of the important shopping places in Darjeeling, it overlooks the snow capped peaks of the Kanchenjunga and houses several Hindu and Buddhists temples. This market is usually chock a block with foreign tourists and a popular place to hire pony's from. Dhoom Gompa: 8 kms outside of Darjeeling lies the Dhoom Gompa. Here a very beautiful statue of the Maitrayia Buddha (prospective Buddha) is established. This monastery has also preserved some of the rare handwritten Buddhist manuscripts. Happy Valley Estate: This estate processes tea and allows the visitor to see how
Darjeeling is equally famous for its teas and its monastries. The Bhutia Busty Gompa set against the backdrop of the Kanchenjunga range stands tall and stately. This Gompa is a branch of the Nyingmapa sect's Phodang Monastery in Sikkim. The monastery is not far from the chowrasta and is very tastefully decorated made by the local women. Bhutia Busty Gompa: Darjeeling is equally famous for its teas and its monastries. The Bhutia Busty Gompa set against the backdrop of the Kanchenjunga range stands tall and stately. This Gompa is a branch of the Nyingmapa sect's Phodang Monastery in Sikkim. The monastery is not far from the chowrasta and is very tastefully decorated. It also has a library which has a copy of the Tibetan Book of the Dead. Botanical Gardens: These gardens are worth a visit for their exotic and exclusive collection of a variety of Himalayan plants,
tea is crushed, torn and curled. The fragrance of fresh tea leaves and the vistas of endless rows of tea plantations make for a refreshing sight. Himalayan Mountaineering Institute: Originally started and run by the famous Sherpa Tenzing Norgay, this institute is one of India's most famous mountaineering institutes. It runs courses for training mountaineers as well as has a very good collection of mountaineering equipment. The institute also screens short films on mountaineering. Natural History Museum: Established
Darjeeling War Memorial, at Batasia Loop, Darjeeling.
in 1903, this natural history museum packs in its folds a rich collection of fauna found in the Himalayas and in Bengal. Among its many attractions are the estuarine crocodiles here. This unique museum also has a good collection of butterflies and the mineral forms of various stones have been displayed in a very attractive manner here. Observatory Hills: This point provides a breathtaking view of Kanchenjunga peaks. Every morning crowds and worshippers of the sun gather to see the peaks shake off the night to dress in the hues of a fresh dawn. This place is also very sacred for the Hindus and the Buddhists as there are temples and monasteries sitting side by side here. Passenger Ropeway: This was the first ropeway to have been built in India. It connects the North point (7000 ft) to the Singla Bazaar (800 ft). The rope covers a distance of 8 kms in 45 minutes. The seats in the ropeway are limited and it is better to get the tickets in advance and the trouble is worth it since this journey offers sweeping views of the gorgeous mountains all around.
Climate: The best time to visit Darjeeling is from March to May or between September and November. The monsoons strike here around May end and the rains are heavy downpours that make living conditions difficult. During summer the temperature ranges from 15 to 25 degrees centigrade whereas in winter there's a drastic fall and the temperature hovers between 2 to 10 degrees. Getting there Air - The nearest Airport is at Bagdogra, 94 kms and three and a half hours away. Rail - The nearest railhead is the New Jalpaiguri Junction at a distance of 81 kms and a three and a half hours drive. Road - Darjeeling is well connected by roads. The state transport runs buses from Kolkata and other nearby places. The private operators also have their buses.
September 28, 2012
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Rail travel, best way to see India: Lonely Planet founder NEW DELHI: Intrepid traveler Tony Wheeler whose trip 40 years ago to Asia, that included India, resulted in a series of cult tourist guidebooks believes that rail travel is just about the best way to experience the country. "The railways are a real part of India. From hopping on to the toy train in Darjeeling to taking locals I have had some really amazing trips across the country on trains. At one point I even had a monthly rail travel pass," says the man who co-founded the Lonely Planet Company. Wheeler was in the city to participate in the launch of 10 travel guides customized especially for Indians. Accompanied by wife Maureen he had first come to India in his 20s during a time when travel to the exotic east was fashionable and loads of tourists would take the "hippy trail" land route across Asia. Low on funds, Wheeler wrote and self published "Across Asia On The Cheap" the first book from the Lonely Planet house, which generated a lot of interest worldwide. "I visited India first 40 years ago in 1972 and it was the halfway mark in my travels across Asia. Today India has changed enormously. Then making a phone call home was a nightmare compared to today when there are mobile phones and so many gadgets," says the 64-year old Wheeler who is in In-
dia "fairly regularly." Having traveled to 154 countries and counting, Wheeler who divides his time between his homes in London and Australia says there are still places to go and people to meet. "In India I have not been to the Hampi and the Andaman Islands and that tops my agenda now. There is also a small place south of Mumbai and on the way to Goa
Even though Wheeler sold the "Lonely Planet" he continues to remain a sort of mascot for the company which has brought out one hundred million travel guides and makes available over 500 titles in nine languages which would be whetting my appetite," says Wheeler who has already planned a trip in January next year. Perhaps the most traveled man, Tony Wheeler says his basic tools remain a paper notebook and credit card. "All you need is a passport and
a credit card. You can end up losing your luggage in your travels and then you are stranded. Of course I carry a notebook and pen in my pocket to record my thoughts wherever I go even though I have started using a laptop," he says. "Traveling by rail is a delightful experience. The heat is oppressive during the day but the coolness of the early dawn is very delicious. Yes there are now a lot of low cost flights but nothing like railways," he says. Even though Wheeler sold the "Lonely Planet" he continues to remain a sort of mascot for the company which has brought out one hundred million travel guides and makes available over 500 titles in nine languages. "The new guidebooks are aimed at the Indian traveler and work on how to get information more targeted for them. We think the Indian traveler is likely to travel with family with kids and parents. We have information on vegetarian food, and other specifics like must see places and things to do," he says. Priced between Rs 495 and Rs 595 the "Lonely Planet for the Indian traveler" guides for Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, Dubai, Bhutan, China, Great Britain, London, France and Italy have been written by Indian authors living in respective countries. -PTI
EU launches tourism campaign
NEW DELHI: Highlighting the diversity Europe offers to tourists, the European Union has launched a new campaign promising a lifetime experience of the continent's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty to visitors. "Europe - Whenever you're ready" campaign, which would run between September this year and December 2013, is designed to remind tourists from India, Brazil, Russia, China, Chile and Argentina to discover the old continent. "There is a lot to discover in Europe: Thematic packages and itineraries, covering all four corners of the EU, are available. These include pan-EU and regional tours on religious, cultural heritage and gastronomic themes - like wine and olive oil routes - and tailored packages incorporating historic and natural UNESCO sites," said Antonio Tajani, European Commission Vice-President, responsible for Industry and Entrepreneurship. "With its single currency, open borders, well-designed infrastruc-
ture and passenger rights, it is easy to travel Europe. It is a lifetime experience to discover Europe's rich cultural heritage and stunning
"There is a lot to discover in Europe: Thematic packages and itineraries, covering all four corners of the EU, are available. These include pan-EU and regional tours on religious, cultural heritage and gastronomic themes - like wine and olive oil routes - and tailored packages natural beauty," Tajani said in a statement. The campaign, which is financed by the European Commis-
sion, would be organized in partnership with the European Travel Commission (ETC) - the umbrella organization for national tourism boards in Europe. It also aims to add value to promotional activities of member states and the European tourism industry. Well known travel writers, journalists and bloggers would be part of the campaign which would showcase the wide variety of unique opportunities that Europe offers to international tourists, the statement said. Tourism has an important role in restoring economic growth in Europe. EU countries account for over 39 per cent of global arrivals, making the EU the world's number one tourist destination. In 2011, the EU tourism industry recorded positive growth rates in most countries of the EU, compared with the same period in 2010. This trend is confirmed both by the number of nights spent in hotels and similar accommodation, and by the net occupancy rates of these establishments. -PTI
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J-K tourism action in 3 areas SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Government has approved an action plan of Rs 5.25 crore for Kokernag, Kishtwar and Aharbal Development Authorities for the financial year 2012-13 for execution of development projects aimed at enhancing the tourism infrastructure in these areas. The action plan was unanimously approved at the Governing Body meetings of the three tourist destinations chaired by Tourism Minister Nawang Rigzin Jora here, an official spokesman said. He said Rs 3 crore has been sanctioned for Kokernag Development Authority, Rs 1.25 crore for Kishtwar Development Authority and Rs 1 crore for Aharbal Development Authority. The spokesman said the Minister directed the concerned officers to complete all the ongoing projects within the stipulated time frame and taking care of quality and aesthetic character of tourism infrastructure according to the wishes of tourists at National and International level. Maintaining that the main objective of creating the Develop-
ment Authorities was to develop new potential sites for tourism on modern lines and create a world class tourist infrastructure at these places to attract more and more tourists, the Minister said several steps have been taken to give fillip to the efforts for promoting tourism in the state which is mainstay of state's economy. "The efforts will continue to develop more infrastructures at
He said Rs 3 crore has been sanctioned for Kokernag Development Authority, Rs 1.25 crore for Kishtwar these tourist places," Jora said. He said God has bestowed enormous natural beauty to several parts of Jammu and Kashmir which has been acknowledged as one of the best places in the world. "It is our duty to conserve the natural beauty with the collective efforts so that maximum people from round the world visit this part of the universe to see and enjoy the natural beauty," he added. -PTI
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TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS
1 Gustakh Dil: English Vinglish 2 Aashiyan: Barfi! 3 Phir Le Aya Dil: Barfi! 4 Barfi!: Barfi! 34
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September 28, 2012
5 Badla Nazara: English Vinglish 6 Radha: Student Of The Year 7 Navrai Majhi: English Vinglish 8 The Disco: Student Of The Year 9 Tujhpe Fida: Heroine
H
igh on the success of Barfi!, Ranbir Kapoor has finally decided to talk about what he really shares with his rumored lover, Katrina Kaif. "I have worked with Katrina in two films and I genuinely feel she is one of the nicest, coolest, and most hard-working girls, other than being beautiful, talented and normal ... a girl I can hang out with and have great conversations with. I have a great connect with her as a friend and that is sometimes miscon-
HOLLYWOOD
CALLING
I
f all goes well, Zarine Khan will go Hollywood for Daniel Silva's "Chimera", starring Billy Zane of Titanic fame. However, Zarine is yet to give her final answer. Confirms the actress, "I have been offered the film but I am thinking about it." "It is a thriller called 'Chimera' opposite Billy Zane. I have read the script but I am still thinking about it," she added. The movie is said to be an adaptation of author-director Silva's bestselling novel "The Fallen Angel". When it comes to films, Zarine has always chosen to be slow and steady. "I really don't want to be in the race of newcomers, who are just running after the projects. It's not that I haven't been offered films. I have been offered a lot of films after 'Housefull 2', but I want to take my time and do quality work rather than quantity," she said.
strued," he said. "It's a small industry and we end up working with the same people and meeting the same people, which tends to bring you close. That's about it. I was always her dear friend," said the 29-year-old. So, that implies he is single? "Yes, I am single as single can get," but it's not a bachelor's party all the time. "Professionally I am enjoying it, but I am also lonely at the same time." It's always good to have a partner. Being an actor you be-
ME TOO, PLEASE! P riyanka Chopra, who is very excited and is eagerly waiting for Saif Ali Khan and Kareena's wedding, feels that she too is ready to settle down, but is yet to find her dream guy. When asked weather she feels it's the right time for her to settle down, she said: "From the age of four I have been waiting to get married. I am ready for it. My mom, dad are also ready but the only problem is I am not getting Mr. Right. So that is a technical problem." Meanwhile, Saif and Kareena are likely to tie the knot Oct 16, Priyanka is very happy for them and she expressed her feelings. Priyanka said: "It is a beautiful thing that she is getting married. I feel it is the most beautiful beginning of a new journey. To me, Saif and Kareena make a wonderful lovable couple. I am looking forward to their marriage."
10 Saiyaan: Ishkq in Paris come even lonelier because you get so involved in your reel life that it takes over your real life ... you need that one constant person in life to talk to, watch movies with; someone who can keep you grounded. Yes, I do miss having a partner but it's okay. This is also the time for me to work as hard as I can. I have to make a mark in the industry," he said.
Bollywood
September 28, 2012
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KISSING I
MISSING
shkq In Paris" is a fresh and young romantic film, but minus any kissing scene, says Preity Zinta, who has turned producer with the movie. "Kissing is missing in the film. Kissing is not necessary to show the romance in the film. Romance is in the heart. It's a rom-com and a family entertainer," Preity said. The actress spoke at the glitzy music launch of the movie. The event was also attended by Salman Khan, who shot a special song titled "Kudiye di kurti" for the film. "Salman has been the inspiration for the music and has helped me a lot," said Preity, thanking the actor for his constant support. The music of "Ishkq In Paris", is composed by Sajid-Wajid. Directed by Prem Raj, the film also features newcomer Rhehan Malliek and French actress Isabelle Adjani.
KAREENA K
PM
areena Kapoor is playing a "hard-headed TV reporter" in Prakash Jha's Satyagraha. But not many know that Bebo is also likely to be seen as a strong female Prime Minister - post her character's metamorphosis - in the multi-starrer socio-political drama. And the actor wants to go all out. She plans to imbibe the "sturdy body language and temperament" of real-life leaders like the late Indira Gandhi (former Indian Prime Minister), Benazir Bhutto (former Pakistan PM) and even Margaret Thatcher (former PM of the UK). "Bebo's character isn't based on any real life person. But since her role is of a strong and opinionated woman, she wants to watch some documentaries, films and hear fiery speeches to get the hang of what really goes on in the mind of a powerful female personality," says an insider close to her. After Heroine's release, Bebo plans to start doing as much research as she can. While Bebo couldn't be reached for a comment, Jha says with a smile. "Do you want me to reveal the entire storyline? I can't talk about her character right now." Interestingly, Jha's Raajneeti (2010) saw Katrina Kaif playing a politician. Congress chief Sonia Gandhi apparently inspired her role.
Kannada I
KUDI?
t's natural for people to talk to an actor in their native language when they feel he/she is from the same region. However, Anushka Sharma is often flummoxed when people go up to her and start talking in Punjabi. Interestingly, the truth is completely different and the actress is believed to be more fluent in Kannada as compared to Punjabi. Our source says, "Anushka has spent a major part of her life in Bangalore. So, as a result of spending many years in that part of the South, she's quite fluent in that language," adding that the first time she learnt to speak in a Punjabi accent was when preparing for her debut, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi. "Playing strong Punjabi characters in films like Band Baaja Baaraat and Patiala House, gave the impression that she's a typical Punjabi kudi and that's why people start talking to her in that language," says our source.
„ Health
Line
NH health care forum to draw business leaders
MANCHESTER, N.H.: Hundreds of business leaders from around the region are expected at the fourth annual health care forum presented by New Hampshire Business Review and MVP Health Care on Oct. 2. The forum is being held 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord. Dr. Aaron Carroll, director of the Center for Health Policy and Professionalism Research, will be the keynote speaker. He plans to offer an analysis of the Affordable Care Act and how it will impact the nation's economy and New Hampshire's business climate. There also will be a panel discussion on legal and operational issues that will impact employers and employees, and on reform efforts that go beyond the ACA to curb spending, contain costs and reform the health care industry. -AP
„ Oswego County finds West Nile virus in 2 pools OSWEGO, NY: The New York State Department of Health says evidence of West Nile virus was found in two different mosquito pools in Oswego County. Both pools previously tested positive for the virus this summer and the latest collections were taken before the county sprayed the area on September 11. Health officials are reminding people that aerial spraying does not kill all infected mosquitoes. Using insect repellant, limiting activities when mosquitoes are active, wearing long clothing and eliminating all standing water can reduce the risk of exposure. -AP
„ 'Healthy Indian diet can prevent prostate cancer' LUCKNOW: Aping western lifestyle and food habits can cause prostate cancer in most men, said urologists at King George's Medical University on the commencement of 'Target prostate health month'. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in elderly males. Incurable at an advanced stage, the cause of the disease is not known. Doctors said urinary incontinence is one of the most common symptoms of problems in the prostate and people should not ignore it. About 70% of men above the age of 50 years suffer from the problem, but they tend to ignore it assuming it to be fallout of normal aging process, they said.
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'Asthmatic kids may suffer severe anxiety' SYDNEY: Young children with severe or persistent asthma are more likely to develop many common mental health problems like anxiety and depression, an Australian study says. Details on page 38
Judge: Mississippi health care challenge premature JACKSON, Miss.: Gov. Phil Bryant and other Mississippi residents were premature in their challenge to the federal law requiring people to buy health care insurance, a federal judge has ruled. District Judge Keith Starrett also knocked the governor and another man out as plaintiffs, The Hattiesburg American reported. Both have health insurance, and wouldn't be affected by the law unless they dropped that insurance. In an order signed Aug. 23, he said two remaining plaintiffs' privacy claims would have to be brought later, because rules involving disclosure and protection of personal information are still being worked out. ``Therefore, plaintiffs' privacy claims are not ripe for judicial resolution,'' he wrote. Mississippi Sen. Chris McDaniel, R-Ellisville, is an attorney for the plaintiffs. They either will appeal Starrett's ruling or refile the suit later, he said.
Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant
McDaniel has said the part of the lawsuit remaining in litigation evokes the right to medical privacy established by the 1973 Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade, which decided medical privacy extended to a woman's right to have an abortion
``Either way, we are going to keep fighting,'' he said. Bryant and 10 others sued in April 2010, broadly challenging the constitutional merits of the law, which imposes tax penalties on people without health insurance beginning in 2014. Earlier rulings dismissed seven plaintiffs for failing to comply with discovery orders. Starrett's August opinion further dismisses without prejudice Bryant and another of the remaining plaintiffs for lack of standing. McDaniel has said the part of the lawsuit remaining in litigation evokes the right to medical privacy established by the 1973 Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade, which decided medical privacy extended to a woman's right to have an abortion. He said the federal government forcing Americans to disclose medical information to an insurer - or a private third party would violate the rights to medical privacy supported by decades of court rulings. -AP
Va. board approves tougher abortion clinic rules RICHMOND, Va.: In a reversal, the Virginia Board of Health has approved abortion clinic regulations that include strict building standards that abortion-rights supporters say are aimed at closing down the centers. Three months after the board backed clinic rules that exempted existing facilities from such strict standards, the board reinstated the provision imposing the new-hospital construction specifications. Abortion-rights supporters who cheered the board's surprise action in June were equally vocal in jeering its about-face. ``Shame! Shame! Shame!'' some critics shouted as board chairman Bruce Edwards of Virginia Beach tried to gavel them into silence and a police officer ushered them out of the packed meeting room. After they were gone and the board recessed, abortion opponents applauded. The board voted 13-2 to enact the regulations, including the pro-
vision requiring all abortion clinics - including the 20 already operating in Virginia - to meet the same architectural standards as new hospitals on issues ranging from doorway widths to room sizes. The board had previously voted 7-4 to exempt existing clinics from the building requirements,
``Virginia's women are better off after today's vote,'' Victoria Cobb, president of the Family Foundation of Virginia, said in a statement. ``The hysterical claims of the abortion industry that today's vote denies access to health care are simply untrue.'' State Health Commissioner
Disappointed abortion-rights advocates directed much of their anger at Cuccinelli, accusing him of bullying board members into abandoning their independent judgment but some members changed their minds after Attorney General Kenneth Cuccinelli, an anti-abortion Republican, said they had overstepped their authority and refused to certify the regulations. Abortion opponents said the regulations will improve health and safety at medical facilities that have long operated without oversight.
Karen Remley told the board that all of the state's abortion clinics have already been inspected and none have indicated they intend to close. Eleven have been licensed after submitting plans to correct deficiencies, while corrective plans for others are pending. Tarina Keene, executive director of NARAL Pro-Choice Vir-
ginia, said that doesn't mean the clinics will be able to remain open. ``Of course they're all trying to make a good faith effort,'' she said, but some clinics will have to come up with as much as $1 million to ``reinvent themselves as hospitals.'' Clinics have two years to meet the requirements. Disappointed abortion-rights advocates directed much of their anger at Cuccinelli, accusing him of bullying board members into abandoning their independent judgment. ``It's confounding except to say that clearly the attorney general's intimidation tactics worked,'' said Katherine Greenier of the ACLU of Virginia. Cuccinelli said in July that the building standards were mandated by the law passed by the General Assembly in 2011 requiring the licensure and regulation of abortion clinics, so the board had to include them in the regulations. Cont'd on page 39
September 28, 2012
Health Science Post
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Kids without siblings more likely to be overweight WASHINGTON: Children who grow up without siblings have a more than 50 percent higher risk of being overweight or obese than children with siblings, according to a new study. This finding is based on the study of 12,700 children in eight European countries, including Sweden. The University of Gothenburg, Sweden, was one of the participating universities in the study. The study was conducted under the framework of the European research project Identification and prevention of Dietary and lifestyleinduced health Effects In Children and Infants (IDEFICS), where researchers from various parts of Europe study diet, lifestyle and obesity and their health effects on children aged 2 to 9 years. The study shows that only children have a more than 50 percent higher risk of obesity compared to their peers with siblings. The results were controlled for other influential factors, such as gender, birth weight and parental weight. In the study, the children's measured BMI was linked to a pa-
rental questionnaire that included questions relating to the children's eating habits, television viewing habits and amount of outdoor playtime. "Our study shows that only children play outside less often,
Over 22 million children in Europe are estimated to be overweight. The study shows that obesity among children in general is three times more common in southern countries such as Italy, Spain and Cyprus live in households with lower levels of education more often, and are more likely to have televisions in their bedroom," said Monica Hunsberger, a researcher at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, who contributed to the study.
"But even when we take these factors into account, the correlation between singleton status and overweight is strong. Being an only child appears to be a risk factor for overweight independent of the factors we thought might explain the difference," she added. Lauren Lissner, a researcher at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg continued, "The fact that only children are more susceptible to obesity may be due to differences in individual family environment and family structure that we were not able to measure in sufficient detail. To better understand the causality, a follow-up study of these families will start next year." Over 22 million children in Europe are estimated to be overweight. The study shows that obesity among children in general is three times more common in southern countries such as Italy, Spain and Cyprus than in Sweden and other northern countries. The study was published in Nutrition and Diabetes in July. -zeenews.india.com
US kids eat too much salt CHICAGO: American children eat as much salt as adults - about 1,000 milligrams too much, or the same amount as in just one Big Mac. Extra salt is linked with higher blood pressure, even in kids, but government research says those who are overweight and obese may be most vulnerable to its effects. The new findings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were published online in the journal Pediatrics. Previous research has shown similar results in adults but studies on salt, weight and blood pressure are scarce in children. The CDC researchers looked at data on 6,200 kids aged 8 to 18 involved in 2003-08 national health surveys. The children were asked twice over several days to detail all foods they'd eaten the previous day; the researchers calculated salt intake from their answers. Overall, 15 percent had either high blood pressure or slightly elevated blood pressure called prehypertension. Those who ate the most salt faced double the risk of having elevated blood pressure, compared with those who ate few salty foods. But among overweight or obese kids, the risk was more than triple. The recommended daily salt or
sodium intake for kids and adults is no more than 1 teaspoon daily, or about 2,300 milligrams. On average, study kids ate 3,300 milligrams daily. CDC researcher Quanhe Yang says it's unclear why heavier kids would be more sensitive to salt but it could be due to obesity-related hormone changes. The results raise concerns because studies have shown
Previous research has shown similar results in adults but studies on salt, weight and blood pressure are scarce in children that elevated blood pressure in childhood, even just prehypertension, can lead to full-fledged high blood pressure in adulthood and potentially premature heart disease. Prehypertension and high blood pressure in children younger than 17 depend on age, height and gender. In those 18 and up, readings between 120 over 80 and 140 over 90 are prehypertension; 140 over 90 and higher is high blood pressure. -AP
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'Asthmatic kids may suffer New virus pegged to severe anxiety' NW Missouri
SYDNEY: Young children with severe or persistent asthma are more likely to develop many common mental health problems like anxiety and depression, an Australian study says. University of Western Australia (UWA) psychologist and study co-author Monique Robinson said their findings build on previous studies which have found that as the severity of asthma increases, so do problems such as anxiety and depression. "We were interested in understanding the link between asthma in early childhood and mental health problems later on as little is
known about the relationship," Robinson said, the journal Psy-
The research team found that having asthma at age five was tied to a higher vulnerability for the later development of problems such as anxiety, conduct problems chological Medicine reports. "We looked at whether the link
was present for mild as well as severe asthma, and whether the link depended on asthma symptoms being persistent throughout childhood as opposed to asthma that lessens as the child grows older," added Robin, according to an UWA statement. The study used western Australian data from the Raine Study to determine whether children who had asthma at five years were vulnerable for later mental health problems through to the age of 17 years. The research team found that having asthma at age five was tied to a higher vulnerability for the later development of problems such as anxiety, conduct problems and affective problems. When the children with asthma were separated into groups depending on the severity of their condition, children with mild asthma were no different to those without asthma in terms of mental health outcomes, but children with severe or persistent asthma were seen to be the most at risk of future mental health problems. -zeenews.india.com
Catchy veggie names can make kids eat greens Dilly Green Beans' replaced regular old green beans. Researchers looked at food sales over two months in two neighboring NYC schools. For the first month, both schools offered unnamed food items, while on the second month carrots, broccoli and green beans were given the
WASHINGTON: Kids seem to have an aversion to eating vegetables, but you can make your child have more greens by using attractive names for healthy foods, according to a new study. Researchers from the Cornell University conducted a couple of studies to explore whether a simple change such as using attractive names would influence kid's consumption of vegetables. In the first study, plain old carrots were transformed into 'X-ray Vision Carrots'. Over 147 students ranging from 8-11 years old from 5 schools participated in tasting the
'cool new' vegetables. Lunchroom menus were the same except that carrots were added on three consecutive days. On the first and last days, carrots remained unnamed. On the second day, the carrots were served as either 'X-ray Vision Carrots' or 'Food of the Day'. The study found that by changing the carrots to 'X-ray vision carrots' , a whopping 66% were eaten, far greater than the 32% eaten when labeled 'Food of the Day' and 35% eaten when unnamed. In the second study, carrots remained 'X-Ray vision carrots', broccoli became 'Power Punch Broccoli' and 'Silly
The study found that by changing the carrots to 'X-ray vision carrots' , a whopping 66% were eaten, far greater than the 32% eaten when labeled 'Food of the Day' and 35% eaten when unnamed more attractive names, only in one of the schools (the treatment school).Of the 1,552 students involved 47.8% attended the treatment school. The results were outstanding: vegetable purchases went up by 99%. -PTI
KANSAS CITY, Mo.: Federal health officials have been working to determine the source of a new virus recently discovered in northwest Missouri, where it sickened two men who live miles apart and who reported having tick bites days before they were hospitalized in 2009. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in a recently published report it is so far unclear what causes the new virus, which has been named the Heartland virus. But the CDC said an investigation is under way to determine if the illness, which includes symptoms of fever, diarrhea and fatigue, stems from bites from ticks, mosquitoes or other insects. Both patients recovered after about a month. The authors of the report published in the Aug. 30 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine include CDC scientist Dr. William Nicholson and Dr. Scott Folk, director of infectious diseases at Heartland Regional Medical Center in St. Joseph, where the two men who contracted the virus were treated in June 2009. Folk said the men _ one aged 57, the other 67 _ were hospitalized for about 10 days. The men live about 60 miles apart and did not know one another. Folk said he initially suspected both men had contracted a tick-borne infection called ehrlichiosis, which has similar symptoms, so he sent their blood samples to the CDC for identification. He treated both men with the standard antibiotic treatment for ehrlichiosis, but found they didn't respond well. Robert Wonderly, now 61, of Sheridan, was one of the men infected. He said in a recent interview that when he first came down with the illness he thought he was having a heart attack. ``My chest was real heavy,'' he said. He went to work at a Maryville factory anyway, but his wife called the doctor who insisted he get checked out. Wonderly was sent to Heartland, where a nurse called Dr. Folk after learning Wonderly had recently been bitten by a tick. ``It's been my experience that people started to feel better within a day or two (of beginning antibiotics). But these patients did not get better,'' Folk said. ``They deteriorated a little bit. They're white blood cell counts got lower before they got higher.'' Nicholson said the CDC had been analyzing the specimens for ehrlichiosis but that ``it turned out to be something completely unique.'' The new virus is a previously
undetected phlebovirus, and is suspected to be tick-related, said Laura McMullan, senior scientist at CDC who was also involved in the research. Heartland virus also appears to be from the U.S., and not an import, she said. ``So what is important about the discovery of this virus is it's different from other known phleboviruses, meaning it's something that's unique. We would not have previously suspected that this virus was around in the U.S. without the discovery,'' she said. Nicholson said considerably more work remains to be done to fully understand Heartland virus. He said while the two men in northwest Missouri are the only two documented cases, it's likely others have been infected. The CDC has been working with Missouri health officials and other hospitals to determine the prevalence of the virus. ``To identify the full spectrum and what is the true public health
CDC researchers have been collecting samples from the two patients' farms to determine if the illness comes from ticks or other insects and what other animals might also be involved impact of this virus we really don't know at this point,'' Nicholson said. ``It would be purely speculative at this point.'' CDC researchers have been collecting samples from the two patients' farms to determine if the illness comes from ticks or other insects and what other animals might also be involved. Nicholson said the CDC hopes to know by the end of the year whether the virus is tick-related. ``We hope we would develop vaccines or antiviral therapies but that would be down the road,'' McMullan said. The immediate need is for prevention, including using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants, the CDC says. Wonderly said he has vague memories of his hospital stay, but remembers his fever reached about 105 degrees for a few days. He said he still gets tired more easily than before he contracted the virus, but is unsure if it's related to the illness. -AP
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UN health agency says Ebola toll 31 in Congo GENEVA: The death toll from an outbreak of the Ebola virus in northeastern Congo has more than doubled to 31 while 38 other people are either suspected of having the disease or are definitely infected, the U.N. health agency said here. Aid workers fear that the disease may be spreading in part due to traditional funeral practices in the region. The Ebola virus has no cure and is deadly in 40 percent to 90 percent of cases. The disease causes severe internal bleeding and can be spread by close person-to-person contact. Fadela Chaib, a spokeswoman for the Geneva-based World Health Organization, said the latest outbreak in Congo was unusual in that the first person known to be infected was a health worker, and officials suspect that the worker might have picked it up from a patient. Health authorities are trying to find that ``index case'' the primary case of infection in the general population and trace that
person's ensuing contacts. Normally, someone seeking care from a health facility would have been reported first, and that has mostly been the case in the eight previous Ebola epidemics in
Doctors Without Borders, along with WHO and Congo's health ministry, has been conducting education campaigns in the area to warn people of the risks linked to this practice Congo since the first discovery of the virus in 1976. This is the first Ebola outbreak in the Haut-Uele territory in northeastern Congo. ``The situation is serious,'' Chaib told reporters. Among the 69 cases overall,
there are 41 ``probable and confirmed cases'' and 28 suspected cases, WHO spokesman Gregory Hartl said. ``The rule is that many of the suspected cases are later discarded,'' he added. Authorities said that 15 people had died in northeastern Congo, where the tradition of washing and displaying of corpses before funerals can spread the epidemic. The tradition is intended to show love and respect for the deceased, but the practice also brings people into close contact with victims of the deadly virus. Doctors Without Borders, along with WHO and Congo's health ministry, has been conducting education campaigns in the area to warn people of the risks linked to this practice. The medical workers' aid group also is managing two quarantine centers in the municipalities of Isiro and Viadana, and the U.N. has called for the creation of a $2 million fund to fight the epidemic in Congo. -AP
Va. board approves tougher abortion clinic rules Cont'd from page 36
He also told board member his office might not represent them if they ignored his advice again and got sued. ``I'm really stunned by the level of politics that entered into this debate,'' Keene said. Jeff Winder of Nelson County accused Cuccinelli and Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell, who also opposes abortion, of ``taking tyrannical action to promote a religious right-wing agenda.'' Speaking during an hour-long public hearing before the vote, he said the board did the right thing in June when it exerted its independence on the building standards issue. ``I encourage you to have the backbone to stand up for your convictions,'' he said. Board member James H. Edmondson Jr. of McLean unsuccessfully tried to persuade his colleagues to stick with their previous position, saying they have an obligation to base their decisions based on sound medical and scientific evidence - none of which supports the strict building standards, he said. ``Please, don't be cowed by an assertion that you don't have the authority to do what our job is to do,'' he said. Demonstrators also targeted the attorney general's advice. ``Hey Cooch, stop bullying the board,'' a sign held by one said. Cuccinelli has maintained that his advice to the board is based on the law, not ideology. The regulations now go back to Cuccinelli, who will decide whether to certify them now that the building standards have been reinserted. ``Whatever the decision, it will be determined solely on a legal basis - as was the
decision on the prior version of the regulations - not on the basis of whether or not we agree with the policy,'' Cuccinelli spokesman Brian Gottstein said in a statement. Edmondson, who along with H. Anna Jeng of Norfolk voted against the regulations, said he and his colleagues ``were thrown into a totally political situation and we didn't cope very well.'' He expressed frustration at what he said is a mixed message
Cuccinelli has maintained that his advice to the board is based on the law, not ideology. The regulations now go back to Cuccinelli, who will decide whether to certify them now that the building standards have been reinserted from the General Assembly. ``On one hand they say be a regulatory body - you are independent,'' Edmonson said. ``On the other hand, `Do as we say.''' Edmondson and Jeng are among the five board members appointed by former Gov. Tim Kaine, a Democrat. The other 10 were appointed by McDonnell. The regulations, which took effect on an emergency basis Jan. 1, also deal with issues including staff training, sanitation and equipment standards. -AP
HIV prevalence down among high risk groups There is a decline in the prevalence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) among three high risk groups like Men having sex with Men, Transgenders and Hijras (MTH). A recent survey of Andhra Pradesh State AIDS Control Society (APSACS) indicated that in the last three years, the three high risk groups or collectively referred to as MTH, HIV prevalence has come down from 23 per cent to 10 per cent. In the same period, the HIV prevalence among Female Sex Workers (FSW) too came down to seven per cent from 11 per cent indicating that the efforts of Andhra Pradesh State AIDS Control Society and other voluntary organizations to spread awareness on HIV/AIDS among high risk groups seem to be paying off. Even among the Injecting Drug Users (IDUs) - persons who share needles - the HIV prevalence had come down to three per cent from seven. The number of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) also
dropped from 18 per cent to two per cent during the same time span, the study indicated. "There is a definite trend of decline in Human Immunodeficiency Virus prevalence among MTH, IDU and FSWs. This is a result of increase of awareness levels in the last few years," said Joint Director, Andhra Pradesh State AIDS Control Society, T. Kailash Ditya, at a consultation meeting with MTH community members. Interestingly, Andhra Pradesh happens to be the largest consumer of condoms and of the 44 crore condoms supplied free by the National AIDS Control Organization (NACO), the State receives 10.9 crore condoms annually. "We are consuming nearly 25 per cent of the overall condoms supplied by NACO indicating high awareness levels on HIV. We are working closely with different voluntary organizations to reach out to more MTF population," Mr. Kailash Ditya said. -The Hindu
In Brief Groups in another bid to block part of Arizona law PHOENIX: A civil rights coalition has asked a federal appeals court to prevent the most contentious part of Arizona's immigration law from taking effect while they appeal a ruling that sunk their earlier bid to bar police from enforcing the provision. The opponents asked the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco for an order preventing police from enforcing a requirement that officers, while enforcing other laws, question the immigration status of those they suspect are in the country illegally. Police have been barred from enforcing the questioning requirement, dubbed by critics as the ``show me your papers'' provision, since July 2010. But a U.S. Supreme Court decision in June upheld the provision and cleared the way for officers to enforce it. -AP
New UK fund to help stranded Indian students LONDON: Britain has announced a new fund of 2 million pounds to help Indian and other non-EU students caught by the revocation of London Metropolitan University's license to admit and teach international students. LMU's license was revoked on August 29, throwing the academic future of over 350 Indian and over 2,250 other non-EU current students in disarray. After the license revocation, they are required to apply for similar courses in other universities and reapply for student visas. Cont’d on page 41
Groups want end of enforcement program GAINESVILLE, Ga.: The federal government should stop allowing local police in Georgia to enforce U.S. immigration laws because it leads to racial profiling and erodes public trust, according to a recent letter from a coalition of 25 groups. The groups sent a letter to U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano asking her to end the so-called 287(g) program, which authorizes local police officers to enforce federal immigration law. ``Today in Georgia, as in many states with 287(g) agreements, the color of a person's skin and the accent of his or her voice create a target for harassment, pretextual arrest, and humiliating detention,'' the letter said. -AP
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Most Britons don't want non-EU students LONDON: A poll conducted for an influential pressure group on immigration issues says that 70 per cent of Britons want a limit on the number of Indian and other non-EU students coming here to study. Cont’d on page 42
Young illegal immigrants may get driver's licenses FRESNO, CALIFORNIA: When 17-year-old Alondra Esquivel needs to get from her rural central California home to classes at Fresno State University 20 miles (32 kilometers) away, she must rely on rides from her relatives or her boyfriend. Most Californians her age can drive. But Esquivel, a college freshman, was brought illegally to the United States from Mexico when she was 7. And California has denied driving privileges to immigrants lacking legal status since 1993. ``Without a license ... I have to depend on others to do the basic things,'' said Esquivel, who lives in rural Parlier, California, has classes at the college four times a week in Fresno. ``It's a big inconvenience.'' But Esquivel soon could get driving privileges: She is one of an estimated million eligible for a new federal program that temporarily defers deportation and grants work permits to people who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children. California has the largest number of potential applicants. The new immigration policy has brought to the forefront the long-
Assemblyman Gil Cedillo, D-Los Angeles, right, is congratulated by Senators Ron Calderon, D-Monterey Park, second from right, Mark Leno, D-San Francisco, third from right, and Kevin de Leon, D-Los Angeles, left, after the Senate approved his measure to allow illegal immigrants in California to get state driver’s licenses, at the Capitol in Sacramento, Calif.
In California, where the automobile is king and car-culture dominates, the change could be most profound. Nearly inaccessible without a car, the state is famous for its freeways running and bitter debate over whether illegal immigrants should have access to driver's licenses. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security said that each state could determine whether to issue licenses or extend other benefits to
young immigrants who qualify for the deferred status. Some states, such as Oregon and Georgia, have announced that they will grant driving privileges to those eligible for the new program. Others, such as Arizona and
Mississippi, have vowed to deny them. California legislators this month approved a bill that would allow an estimated 450,000 eligible young immigrants in the state to use the federal work permits at the Department of Motor Vehicles as proof of lawful presence in the country. The bill is now headed to the governor. For young people like Esquivel, foreign-born but steeped in America's language and lifestyles, the single administrative policy at the federal level, coupled with a state decision, could spell a life-changing moment - transforming school and work opportunities, daily nuisances and even social lives. In California, where the automobile is king and car-culture dominates, the change could be most profound. Nearly inaccessible without a car, the state is famous for its freeways, streets lacking sidewalks and spotty or nonexistent public transportation. Driving is more than a practical necessity for Californians: it's a birthright. Cont’d on page 42
F-4 waiting time more advantageous than EB-3 CYRUS D. MEHTA
I
write this with some sarcasm. The family fourth preference (F-4), which allows US citizens to sponsor their siblings for a green card, is horrendously backlogged. It takes over 10 years for a brother or sister of a US citizen to obtain a green card. If the sibling was born in the Philippines, the wait could well be over 25 years. So, why is it a piece of cake? After the State Department released its Visa Bulletin for October 2012, the F-4 at least for the worldwide category appears to be more advantageous in terms of waiting time than say the employment-based third preference (EB3) for India, which is applicable to jobs that require bachelor's degrees or at least two years of training or experience. The EB-3 for India is so back-
logged that it could take a US employer 70 years before the Indian worker it sponsors gets a green card. What was also disappointing with the October 2012 Visa Bulletin was that the employmentbased second preference (EB-2),
green cards today. This does not bode too well because in April 2012 the cutoff date for the India EB-2 was May 1, 2010. It should have emerged in October at the same cut off level, not back at September 1, 2004. Perhaps, the reason
The EB-3 for India is so backlogged that it could take a US employer 70 years before the Indian worker it sponsors gets a green card after being unavailable all summer, emerged in October with a cutoff date of September 1, 2004. This means that employers who filed labor certifications on behalf of foreign national workers with advanced degrees on or before September 1, 2004, can apply for their
for this giant leap back in time is because many in the EB-3 with priority dates going back to 2004 and earlier are upgrading into the EB-2. Noted immigration attorney Carl Shusterman has quite correctly called the October 2012 Visa Bulletin a disaster.
But jokes aside, the F-4 is actually a good hedge against the broken legal immigration system in the United States. If you have a brother or sister with kids who are 6 or 7 today, file the I-130 petition and then forget about it. Treat it like a long term stock in a new startup that will increase in value in the years to come. By the time the green card comes through for your sibling, his or her kids would be 17 and 18, old enough to start college in the US as green card holders rather than on an F-1 student visa. Note that spouses and children can derivatively get their green cards with the principal beneficiary. If these kids were born in India, think of the benefit this would give them after they graduate from college and get a coveted Cont’d on page 42
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Fast-track lanes at Heathrow for rich Indians? LONDON: After facing embarrassment over long delays at immigration at Heathrow before the Olympics, Britain is working on plans for fast-track passport lanes for high-value individuals from India and other countries to convey the message that London is "open for business". Brian Moore, the head of UK Border Force, told the Home Affairs Select Committee that his officials were working on the plans for high-value business individuals not only from the old Commonwealth countries such as Australia, but from all countries. He told senior Labor MP Keith Vaz, chairman of the committee: "It is an idea that officials are discussing with port operators. It will then go back to ministers for them to consider whether and how it is going to be progressed. It is an
idea that is being pursued." As Indian companies increasingly set up offices in the UK or takeover British companies, top
Long waiting times at Heathrow before the Olympics due to shortage of immigration staff caused by funding cuts led to much criticism and embarrassment for the David Cameron government business executives from the country travel to London on a regular basis. Vaz termed such individuals as "the super rich", but Moore preferred to call them 'high-value'
US delays deportation of 29 under new program WASHINGTON: The Obama administration has approved applications from 29 illegal immigrants to have their deportations delayed as they seek to stay in the country and get a work permit, the Department of Homeland Security said. Spokesman Peter Boogaard said that U.S. Immigration and Citizenship Services had received about 82,000 applications from illegal immigrants hoping to qualify for the administration's Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. The first immigrants to win the reprieve were notified last week. They will be allowed to stay in the United States for up to two years and be given permission to work; applications can be renewed every two years. Boogaard said another 1,600 applications are awaiting final review. USCIS started accepting applications for the program on Aug. 15. The first approvals came well ahead of the department's own internal estimates that it could take four to six months for an application, including fingerprints and a background check, to be fully reviewed. Republican lawmakers have decried Obama's policy, saying it is tantamount to ``backdoor amnesty'' for as many as 1.7 million illegal immigrants. Sen. Jeff Sessions, an Alabama Republican, earlier this week questioned the timing of the first wave of approvals.
``The speed at which the deferrals are being granted continues to raise severe concerns about fraud and the administration's ability to verify items like age of entry, educational status and even current age,'' Sessions said. President Barack Obama and DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano announced the program in June. To be eligible, applicants have to prove that they arrived in the United State before they turned 16, are 30 years old or younger, be
They will be allowed to stay in the United States for up to two years and be given permission to work; applications can be renewed every two years high school graduates or in school, or have served in the military. They also cannot have a serious criminal record or otherwise pose a threat to public safety or national security. The program closely tracks with the failed DREAM Act, a bill would have provided a path to legal status for many young illegal immigrants. The new policy does not provide legal status for the immigrants, but does protect them from deportation for two years. -AP
business individuals. Moore said such fast-track lanes were already in operation in several countries, and having them at Heathrow would help convey the message that Britain was open for business. Long waiting times at Heathrow before the Olympics due to shortage of immigration staff caused by funding cuts led to much criticism and embarrassment for the David Cameron government, which put in place extra staff and mobile teams to cope with the Olympics rush. The special measures helped reduce waiting times at immigration counters during the Olympics season. The official target time for passengers arriving from outside the European Union to progress through immigration is 45 minutes at Heathrow. -PTI
New UK fund to help stranded Indian students
PRADEEP ROY-SINGH B.A. LL.B. M.B.A. J.D. Attorney-at-Law
Former Assistant StateÂ’s Attorney
Civil & Criminal Litigation Felonies, Misdemeanors, Inc DUI 1 Personal Injury, Business, Divorce etc. 1 Property Tax for Commercial Properties 1 1
Cont’d from page 40
Universities minister David Willetts told a conference of Universities UK that the 2 million pounds fund was intended to "to help legitimate overseas students at London Met who face extra costs through no fault of their own". The money will be used to help with the costs of students transferring to other universities and to make new visa applications. Those unable to transfer to another university by December 1 will be required to leave the UK within 60 days. Soon after the license revocation, Willetts had set up a taskforce to help current students transfer to other universities to pursue and complete their courses. The taskforce is in the process carrying out its mandate. LMU, meanwhile, has filed a judicial review petition in the high court, challenging UK Border Agency's decision to revoke its license. UKBA had revoked the university's license citing "serious and systemic failures". During his speech at Keele University, Willetts indicated that the government was considering the demand of almost all stakeholders in higher education to remove the numbers of international students from overall immigration figures, since most students return home after completing their studies. -PTI
http://www.proy-singh.com
2335 W. Devon Ave., Suite 204, Tel: 773-381-1820 Chicago, IL 60659
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Young illegal immigrants may get driver's licenses Cont’d from page 40
Illegal immigrants in California who can't drive face a long series of daily inconveniences and calculated risks. Some drive without a license, unable to find another way to get to work or school. Others depend on family, friends and co-workers for rides. It's especially hard on young people like Esquivel, who was raised in the U.S., but has had to miss out on the quintessential American rite of passage. She got top grades at Parlier High School, earning a merit scholarship to attend college, and plans to become an elementary school teacher. But at an age when getting behind the wheel seems pivotal, Esquivel can't drive to the mall or to see her friends, not to mention to school or work. ``Sometimes I feel like going out, but I can't really do that,'' she said. Esquivel was smuggled by relatives through a border checkpoint in a car with her younger sister - an experience she barely remembers. In high school, she watched
classmates get driver's licenses and cars as soon as they turned 16. Esquivel and a few others could not apply because of their legal status. ``It was hard,'' she said. ``I felt left out. They were able to do things, go places, and I couldn't.'' Parlier, population 14,500, has little in the way of public transportation, stores or services. Residents drive virtually everywhere to get to work, grocery shopping, to the doctor and to church. Esquivel's parents, who pick grapes, olives and other crops in nearby fields, don't have time to drive her places and have not allowed Esquivel to drive without a license, because it's too dangerous, she said. ``If I get stopped, I could get deported,'' she said. ``Things like that worry them.'' Numerous bills to grant licenses to those without legal status in California have failed or been vetoed by several governors over the past decade. Still, the commute to college
has proved a challenge. Family members have to wait for hours while Esquivel is in class. And while the young woman's boyfriend, a U.S. citizen, also studies at Fresno State, their schedules don't coincide.
Young immigrants who qualify won't get permanent legal residency or a path to citizenship, but will receive a work authorization card and a Social Security number Her parents told her she might soon have to drive on her own, which fills Esquivel with dread. For the past month, she has occasionally sat behind the wheel with a relative in the passenger seat, in lieu of driving lessons. Esquivel, who is in the process
F-4 waiting time more advantageous than EB-3 Cont’d from page 40
job in the US - and let's hope by then that the US economy would have turned around through some breakthrough technology that would result in an abundance of jobs! Assuming that the EB-3 was as backlogged in 2023 as it is today, because Congress continued to remain in permanent gridlock, those kids would have to wait about 70 years to get their green card under the EB-3. Instead, the F-4 that you filed with a great deal of foresight today would benefit your nephews and nieces by the time they come of age and are ready to pursue their hopes and dreams in the USA. What if the kids are no longer children by the time your sibling gets the green card under the F-4? What if they have already turned 21 or more as a child is one who is under 21 under the Immigration and Nationality Act? These are all good and relevant concerns. For-
tunately, some of these kids may be able to freeze their age under the Child Status Protection Act. If the child is 23 years old at the time the date on the I-130 petition becomes current, then under INA § 203(h)(1) it is possible to subtract from that age the time that the I130 petition took to get approved from the time it was filed. For example, if the USCIS took two and a half years to approve the I-130 petition from the date it was filed, then you can subtract 2.5 years from the child's age, and if the age is reduced so that it falls below 21, then the child can still immigrate with the parent. Thus, it is actually to your advantage if the I-130 petition takes a long time to get approved as that much more time can then get subtracted from the age of a child who may have turned over 21 on the date of visa availability. Fortunately, the processing time at the Vermont Service Center for an F-4 today is just short of 2 years.
Processing times will be longer if the USCIS issues a request for more evidence before approving the I-130 petition. So don't get too anxious if the I-130 under the F-4 does not get approved so quickly. This time will prove to be precious to reduce the age of a child who is over 21 a decade or more from today, when the visa becomes available under the F-4. If we had a better immigration system, I would not waste time extolling the so called virtues of the F-4. But when so many preference categories have gone out of whack - 70 years for the India EB-3 and the EB-2 seems to also be going the same way- then we must grasp at straws and the F-4 is certainly one until Congress is able to bring sensible reforms to our immigration system.
* Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com
of applying for the new immigration program, hopes a license will come with it. To benefit, immigrants must prove they arrived in the United States before they turned 16, were younger than 31 as of June 15, have been living in the country at least five years, are in school or graduated, and have not been convicted of certain crimes. Young immigrants who qualify won't get permanent legal residency or a path to citizenship, but will receive a work authorization card and a Social Security number. ``I'm really hoping the law that allows us to drive will pass,'' Esquivel said. ``It would be a great relief for me.'' Critics of the new immigration program say granting licenses to young immigrants like Esquivel would reward and accommodate illegal immigrants. ``We're already paying for the costs of illegal immigration. Why should we pay for additional benefits?'' said Bob Dane, spokesman
with the Federation for American Immigration Reform in Washington D.C. ``The driver's license is a breeder document which opens up a full spectrum of rights and privileges'' such as access to banking accounts, credit cards and mortgages. But immigrant advocates say denying licenses to people approved under the new immigration program is illogical. ``This is a common sense issue,'' said Marielena Hincapie, executive director of the Los Angeles based National Immigration Law Center. ``These are young people who will have valid work authorization and Social Security numbers. They will need to drive to school, to work, to medical appointments. From a policy perspective, granting them licenses makes sense.'' For Esquivel, a license would also mean fulfilling another wish: driving 200 miles (320 kilometers) north to Sacramento to visit grandparents she has not seen for years. -AP
Most Britons don't want non-EU students LONDON: A poll conducted for an influential pressure group on immigration issues says that 70 per cent of Britons want a limit on the number of Indian and other non-EU students coming here to study.
The university's license to admit and teach non-EU students was revoked by the UK Border Agency on August 29 due to 'systemic and serious failures' Results of the poll conducted by YouGov and Migration Watch UK were released as a task force formed to help Indian and other non-EU students affected by the recent revocation of London Metropolitan University's license began functioning. The university's license to admit and teach non-EU students was revoked by the UK Border Agency on August 29 due to 'systemic and serious failures', throwing academic plans of thousands of current and new students in disarray. Migration Watch UK said in the poll, a key question asked of
respondents explained that about 250,000 foreign students from outside the EU arrive every year to study in Britain. They pay the full cost of studying and provide universities and colleges with valuable income. About one in five stay on legally after their studies and become long-term immigrants while others return home but, as there are still no exit checks, the number who have actually left is not known, it said. Thinking about this, respondents were asked whether there should be a limit on foreign student numbers in British colleges and universities. According to the results, 70 per cent said that there should be a limit while 22 per cent said there should not and 7 per cent did not know. Support for a limit was strong across political parties according to respondents' intention to vote, with 70 per cent of Conservatives, 66 per cent of Labor and 57 per cent of Liberal Democrats in favor of a limit. The strongest support was in Scotland at 76 per cent, while the lowest was in London at 62 per cent. Women were more likely than men to favor a limit by 74 per cent to 67 per cent, Migration Watch UK said. -PTI
Realty Tidbits
Whistleblowers flood antiencroachment cell
HYDERABAD: Giving credence to reports that government land is being encroached by land sharks in the city, especially in the surrounding mandals, an exclusive cell set up for receiving land encroachment complaints by the Rangareddy district administration has been flooded with complaints. Since September 3, the day the cell with the toll free number 18004250817 became operational, the district administration has received 131 complaints on land grabbing. Of these, nearly 120 complaints were found to be true. In some cases, the revenue department has initiated action to protect land by demolishing the unauthorized structures or removing boundary stones.
Banks to focus on incomplete projects
MUMBAI: In a bid to improve housing stock in the country, Union secretary for financial services DK Mittal has asked commercial banks to focus on financing partially completed projects on a priority basis, developers' apex body CREDAI said in a release. At the joint meeting between developers body CREDAI and Indian Bankers Association, bankers insisted on the one-project one-bank account norm and opening escrow accounts to track the usage of project-specific funds. Bankers also suggested incentivizing the rate projects through lower interest rates. Presiding over the joint meeting, Mittal asked the developers' body to conduct a survey of unsold housing units in various cities and submit the same in order to enable a decision on unlocking of their value.
Ansal API plot holders not to pay enhanced EDC KURUKSHETRA: Residential plot holders of the Ansal (API) Sushant City here have decided not to pay the enhanced external development charges (EDC) as demanded by the company at the rate of Rs 1,395 per sq yard. In a meeting held under the chairmanship of Subhash Chander Dhul here, the residential plot holders said they had already paid the EDC at the time of buying the plot. Moreover, the firm had already collected interest on the EDC from the plot buyers vide their letter dated December 22, 2010.
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Case against Taneja Developers closed NEW DELHI: The Competition Commission has closed the case against Taneja Developers and Infrastructure (TDI) related to allegations that the company was abusing its dominant position in the real estate segment in Mohali. A non-resident Indian Deepa Narula had alleged that TDI abused its dominant position in the market of Mohali by withholding Rs 18.05 lakh deposit made against booking of a commercial plot.
Realty sector welcomes more liquidity but wants rate cut NEW DELHI: The real estate industry has expressed hope that a part of Rs 17,000-crore worth liquidity infused by RBI into the financial system would flow into the realty sector. The industry also sought measures to lower borrowing cost and boost housing demand. "This (CRR cut) will help in generating liquidity and some part will flow into the real estate, which is much required given the compression of liquidity within the real estate industry," property consultant Jones Lang LaSalle (India) Chairman and Country Head Anuj Puri told PTI. Puri, however, said that "it is also important to bring down the high interest rate to enable the real estate industry to make sound and good progress".
CREDAI, the apex body of realtors, welcomed the RBI's decision to cut cash reserve ratio (CRR) by 0.25 per cent, but felt that reduction in repo rate was needed to encourage the real estate sector. "We welcome the CRR cut.
tries which would contribute to the IIP," CREDAI NCR officiating President Geetamber Anand said in a statement. Housing demand has been hit due to high interest rate on home loans, affecting the business of real estate developers.
"A little action on the rate side would have been even more encouraging for the productive industries and would have lifted corporate and household sentiments in the sagging economy" Though a repo rate cut was what would have really triggered the real estate market and was extremely needed to support this sector, which would have given a kickstart to nearly 300 affiliate indus-
The interest outgo of realty firms, sitting on a huge debt, have also gone up significantly leading to reduction in their margins and profitability. Commenting on the RBI's move,
Ramprastha CEO Nikhil Jain said: "This (CRR cut) is expected to ease off loans to industries and consumers, which is a positive for the real estate sector. The measure will improve supply of loan but not the cost of loan." Jain, however, said: "A little action on the rate side would have been even more encouraging for the productive industries and would have lifted corporate and household sentiments in the sagging economy." RBI has reduced CRR, the percentage of deposits banks keep with central bank, to 4.5 per cent, but kept the repo rate, at which the central bank lends to the banks, and the reverse repo rate, at which it absorbs excess liquidity through borrowings from banks, unchanged. -PTI
Pact signed to end Gurgaon e-way jams NEW DELHI: Expect major changes on the Delhi-Gurgaon expressway soon. After several flip flops, the highways authority, expressway contractor and the project financier have agreed to introduce a slew of time-bound measures for improving traffic flow on the stretch, besides improving safety. Having reached the settlement out of court, the National Highways Authority of India told Delhi High Court that it would withdraw its order terminating the contract with Delhi-Gurgaon Super Connectivity Ltd (DGSCL). The project's lead lender, Infrastructure Development Finance Company Ltd, also signed the memorandum of understanding before the court, which includes the following features: • E-way makeover • Touch card tech in 4 months • Free tags within 15 days; discount for local traffic • Minimum trips cut from 60 to 40 for monthly discount • Toll collection via hand-held devices within 15 days • Toll plaza to be expanded by 4 lanes on Delhi side in 4 months,
7 lanes on Gurgaon side in 9 months • Move to make monthly recharge 33% cheaper While the MoU provisions will take effect in the medium to long term, NHAI, DGSCL, Haryana government departments and Gurgaon police will meet to discuss immediate improvements in toll plaza functioning . These initiatives would be
disposed of the petition filed by DGSCL challenging NHAI's contract termination order. "With the signing of the MoU, it is understood by the parties that the termination notice of December 7, 2011 and the subsequent termination order of February 18, 2012 issued by NHAI to the concessionaire stands withdrawn," the court said.
DGSCL has also agreed to reduce the minimum number of trips from 60 to 40 for those looking to avail of the monthly discount. This means monthly recharge will reduce by almost 33%. To improve traffic clearance, the concessionaire shall also implement tolling though hand-held devices at its own cost put before the Punjab and Haryana high court, which is hearing a separate case and had barred the operator from collecting toll for two weeks as a penalty for not doing enough to prevent traffic jams at the toll plaza. At the Delhi high court, Justice S Murlidhar accepted the submissions of the parties and
As per the MoU, DGSCL shall implement touch card technology at its own cost within four months and a "minimal" price would be fixed for these cards by NHAI or an independent consultant. This price, it is hoped, would be a deterrent against "misuse of the card". DGSCL shall also provide free e-tags so that more local commut-
ers - both on personal and commercial vehicles - can avail of discounts. Ideally, about 70-80 % traffic should be on tag/electronic mode for smooth traffic flow across toll plazas. At present, however, about 2.2 lakh units of tolled vehicles cross the 32-lane toll plaza that witnesses massive jams, and only 30% are on tag mode. DGSCL has also agreed to reduce the minimum number of trips from 60 to 40 for those looking to avail of the monthly discount. This means monthly recharge will reduce by almost 33%. To improve traffic clearance, the concessionaire shall also implement tolling though hand-held devices at its own cost. Another key provision of the understanding is to expand the toll plazas by creating provisions of additional lanes. At the 32-lane plaza, additional lanes would be created at a distance from the existing toll plaza so that a couple of signal free lanes will lead the traffic to multiple toll lanes for faster clearance. Eleven lanes shall be added to this plaza and these have to be completed in two installments.
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Private equity play hots up Bangalore market BANGALORE: A resilient property market backed by perceptions of high quality standards and professionalism has seen private equity investments of at least Rs 400 crore flow into Bangalore-based developers in the last two months. Global investment firm Xander has bought a 49% stake for Rs 150 crore in the retail component of Mantri Developers' integrated township, Mantri Serenity, located on Kanakapura Main Road. Sushil Mantri, CMD, Mantri Developers, confirmed the deal. Prior to this, Mantri Developers raised Rs 100 crore from ASK Property Investment Advisors, the real-estate private equity arm of ASK, for its luxury residential project in the heart of the city, near Lalbagh. ASK has announced another Rs 100 crore fund infusion for a 50% stake in a residential project comprising of villas and apartments being developed by Shriram Properties, located off Sarjapur Road, near the Wipro Campus. Commenting on the company's recent funding activities, Sunil
Rohokale, CEO of ASK Investment Holdings, said: "Our second round of investments in Bangalore shows our confidence in the outlook for the city's real estate market. The market is stable due to constant job creation." Samir Jasuja, CEO of real estate analytics
From the consumer standpoint, it is very good news when a PE fund comes on board a project, as it guarantees financial stability, and ensures that the project goes on to completion firm PropEquity, said Bangalore's absorption rate had been fantastic and the market was doing way better than its peer cities in west and north of the country. Jasuja said the PE interest was also because, "southbased developers have proven to be much more professional than developers in the
Kalyan Jewellers forays into realty
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eading jewellery brand Kalyan Jewellers is plan ning to make a foray into the real estate market of Ahmedabad. The Rs 9400-crore company, which has 37 branches in six states of India, opened its 38th showroom in Ahmedabad on September 16. This is its first branch outside south India, which was inaugurated by its brand ambassador Amitabh Bachchan. "After we consolidate our brand here, in two years we would be looking at foraying into real estate. Gold has traditionally been a sound investment whereas real estate is becoming the second best investment option. We would be following the same business model as we do in Kerala and will be looking at cater to both affordable living and high end luxury
west and north. Also, their project execution and quality is far better than what one sees in the rest of the country." Anuj Nangpal, director of investment advisory in real estate consultancy DTZ India noted, "Mumbai's real estate market is whopped, Delhi is too investor led and
segment in real estate," said T S Kalyanaraman, Chairman and MD of Kalyan Jewellers. The group had announced its realty projects in Bangalore, Coimbatore, Chennai, Hyderabad, Calicut and Trivandrum.
For its jewellery business, the company will invest Rs 1000 crore this year in a bid to enter Maharashtra and Gujarat For its jewellery business, the company will invest Rs 1000 crore this year in a bid to enter Maharashtra and Gujarat. After Ahmedabad, the group would be opening showrooms in Rajkot and Surat in the next six months.
there is a lot of underwriting in sales, Chennai has seen a slowdown, but Bangalore continues to remain strong and steady." The PE party may continue in the coming months. Project level funding to the tune of Rs 300 crore is on the cards, with deal closures expected to happen as early as end
of September. Century Real Estate led by P Ravindra Pai, one of the largest owners of real estate (about 3,000 acres) in Bangalore, recently raised Rs 40 crore for its project Century Indus, located in Rajarajeshwari, from Anil Ambani's Reliance Capital. Century is in the process of raising an additional Rs 150 crore to be channeled into two SPVs (special purpose vehicles), and it is said that Reliance Capital may again participate. Another Bangalore-based premium developer, Jain Heights, is in talks with three fund houses, including Reliance Capital, to raise around Rs 100 crore at the SPV level for multiple projects. The funding is being planned in two tranches - a first round of Rs 60 crore and then Rs 40 crore. The first round of funding will see closure by September end, company sources said. From the consumer standpoint, it is very good news when a PE fund comes on board a project, as it guarantees financial stability, and ensures that the project goes on to completion.
Illegal colonies: Officials hand in glove with builders GURGAON: Complaints of irregularities and subsequent examination of revenue records in different parts of the district have unearthed a major property scam allegedly being perpetrated by unscrupulous builders involved in developing illegal colonies with tacit support of key government officials. Gurgaon Deputy Commissioner P.C. Meena recently withdrew the power to register sale deeds of immovable property from Sohna tehsildar Pankaj Setia and Pataudi tehsildar Rajender Singh after he found irregularities pertaining to sale deed registration in unauthorized colonies, evasion of stamp duty and other matters in their areas of jurisdiction. On being contacted for comment, Meena said the tehsildars had been divested of their registration powers till further orders and the relevant records were be-
ing examined. Meanwhile, on complaints of DTP (Enforcement), first information reports have also been registered against several persons al-
The devious colonizers first cut plots on a chunk of land and sell these on the basis of general power of attorney (GPA) obtained from other states to dodge the local authorities legedly involved in developing illegal colonies in the Bhondsi area and Sector 10 of Gurgaon. Sources said the devious colo-
nizers first cut plots on a chunk of land and sell these on the basis of general power of attorney (GPA) obtained from other states to dodge the local authorities. At times, the deal is struck merely on the basis of notarized agreements. Primarily, the low prices of such plots attract prospective customers to the trap. Such colonizers are usually backed by some prominent political figure(s), by virtue of whom they assure the buyers of getting the colony regularized. Subsequently, the colonizers approach the revenue officials to get the sale deeds registered in the colonies developed by them. Political clout as well as financial prowess are freely used in the game. Such rackets and nexus between unprincipled realtors and corrupt government officials have been flourishing in Gurgaon owing to the high prices of property in the district.
Mumbai's FSI review hailed MUMBAI: Mumbai Vikas Samiti, comprising social activists and infrastructure experts in the city, has welcomed the state government move to appoint a study group comprising heads of various state departments to review existing laws and recommend necessary changes in floor space index (FSI) being granted to real estate and urban infrastructure projects in Mumbai. The report is expected to be completed within a month. In a letter to Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, Samiti's
Nandkumar Salvi said the review was overdue and a must." But the review should be transparent, proper, with participation of professional experts and voluntary organizations working on this issue. Suggestions from citizens, professional and voluntary organizations must be invited and evaluated in a transparent manner," Salvi said in his letter. Such exercise should not be just for completing a procedural step. This is all the more necessary since the problem of FSI is complex, in-
volves virtually lakhs of crores of Rupees and drastically affects the orderly and people-oriented development of Mumbai. Unless this is done, the danger is that the review will end up as another exercise in favoring builders and adding to the already messed up housing, transport and civic services situation in Mumbai. "Your predecessor had announced in Legislative Assembly on 21.4.2010 that the state government will set up a high-power committee to review the existing adhoc FSI policy.
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FDI in retail to boost small space demand NEW DELHI: The government's decision to operationally FDI in multi-brand retail would help the realty sector as the move would create demand for retail space and boost mall development in the country, real estate developers and property consultants said. "This is much awaited news which will bring in positivity not only in the sentiment, but will bring in FDI flows into the country. It will help in investment for back-end retail to improve efficiency and productivity in retail and also help boost mall development in India," Jones Lang LaSalle India Chairman and Country Head Anuj Puri told PTI. Puri said the decision would help in absorption of surplus retail space in shopping malls across the country. The Cabinet has decided to operationalise 51 per cent FDI in multi-brand retail but left it to the state governments to allow setting up of such stores. Asked whether states would allow for-
eign retailers to set up shops, Puri said: "We expect Congress-ruled states to allow it. Bigger states Maharashtra and Delhi, where retailers want to open their stores, will allow it as they are being ruled by Congress". Commenting on the development, DLF Group Executive Director Rajeev Talwar said:
nect rural producer to urban consumer". CREDAI, the apex body of realtors, President Lalit Jain said: "It is a very good step. We welcome this. This will open a new chapter in the Indian economy". Asked about impact on realty sector, Jain said FDI in multi-brand retail would enhance
Property consultant Knight Frank Regional Director (North) Mudassir Zaidi said: "This step will help in revitalizing the retail sector as many global brands are wanting to come to India. Because new players coming in, we will see lots of new demand coming to the real estate sector for retail spaces "The government has announced policy measures and reforms. It is now time to put through PSU disinvestment and monetary measures by RBI". On allowing multi-brand retail, he said: "This is the only measure which can con-
the business of companies developing malls. "FDI in multi-brand retail would create employment opportunities, which would create housing demand". Property consultant Knight Frank Regional Director (North) Mudassir Zaidi said:
Investor interest in Navi Mumbai, Thane properties MUMBAI: Investor interest in property developments in Navi Mumbai and Thane has been on the rise in the backdrop of proposed development of international airport and other infrastructure projects. High interest rates and unaffordable prices in Mumbai and its suburbs are also key reasons for investors to focus on relatively affordable projects in Navi Mumbai, said property consultant CBRE. Given the growth in investor appetite for these relatively affordable projects, property prices in these suburbs have moved up 78% between July '11 and June '12, according to a report by the property consultancy firm. Apartment prices in premium locations such as south and central Mumbai grew at a modest 2-4% over the same period. "There are some end-users too,
but the larger portion is investors. Apart from ongoing and proposed infrastructure development, price is definitely a pull factor," said Anshuman Magazine, CMD of
High interest rates and unaffordable prices in Mumbai and its suburbs are also key reasons for investors to focus on relatively affordable projects in Navi Mumbai, said property consultant CBRE CBRE, South Asia. The lesser known nodes of Karanjade, Ulwe and Dronagiri in Navi Mumbai that are currently
being developed by CIDCO are already witnessing increasing interest from investors due to their proximity to the proposed airport, the report said. The residential market in Mumbai witnessed subdued growth during the first half of 2012 due to high interest rates. While there was a decline in supply addition compared to the second half of 2011, the stock of unsold inventory increased during the review period. South and Central Mumbai, which offer premium residential options, have witnessed limited supply during the first half of 2012. Developers have adopted a cautious approach due to large inventory of unsold stock in these micro-markets, CBRE said. Apart from Mumbai, there was demand for mid-segment and affordable housing in National Capital Region and Bangalore as well.
Retail reforms to help real estate firms NEW DELHI/MUMBAI: The big-bang retail reforms have perked up some of India's biggest real estate firms such as Unitech, DLF, Oberoi Realty and Nitesh Estates, among others, whose retail segment plans were going nowhere in the past couple of years because of dwindling demand. DLF, the country's largest real estate company, is already planning to kick start the largest mall in India, with 4 million sq ft of space in Gurgaon and is hoping that by the time the mall opens in 2015-16, quite a few new retailers and brands would have entered
the country by then with the easing of FDI in single and multibrand retail. "Retail real estate has been down and out for the last three years and this move will give a fillip to the segment," says Pranay Vakil, chairman, Knight Frank India. There are lots of empty spaces in malls across the top metros in the country right now. In the AprilJune 2012 quarter, there was about 26% vacancy in malls of DelhiNCR, 23.5% in Mumbai and 18% in Pune and between 5% and 15% in Bangalore, Hyderabad and
Chennai, and rentals have been under pressure. "Rentals are not likely to go up immediately, but space take-up will be far better than current levels," said Anuj Puri, chairman and country head, Jones Lang LaSalle India. The condition to put at least 50% of total FDI in back-end infrastructure within three years of the induction of FDI will also help improve the infrastructure and its efficiency, say experts. Full text of government reforms on: Multi brand retail | Single brand retail | Civil Aviation.
"This step will help in revitalizing the retail sector as many global brands are wanting to come to India. Because new players coming in, we will see lots of new demand coming to the real estate sector for retail spaces. Eventually, property prices may also firm up in future." Another consultant Cushman & Wakefield said within the next 12-24 months international retailers will accelerate their entry strategy. "As a result, the developers involved in shopping centre development, who were badly hit since 2008, will also get a tremendous boost and we will witness serious players expanding in this space. "Over the medium to long term, the retail sector, real estate industry and the end-consumers will benefit from the move and the economy on the whole will gain momentum, depth and size," said Sanjay Dutt, Executive Managing Director, South Asia, C&W. -PTI
NHB toolkit to assess energy efficiency NEW DELHI: National Housing Bank (NHB) in association with TERI has launched an IT toolkit to predict the energy performance of real estate projects in the country, a move aimed at promoting green building, a company official said. "IT Toolkit: ResbuildIndiaunder is focused on bringing energy efficiency in the untapped huge residential sector," NHB Chairman and Managing Director R V Verma said here. The need of the hour is to encourage various stakeholders to use this tool, he said, adding, sustained sensitization is needed for generating passion among customers that can play a pivotal role in popularizing this tool. Under the promotional program for energy efficient new residential housing, he said, banks and housing finance companies are eligible to receive NHB-Refinance for home-owner loans to fund the purchase of certified energy efficient apartments. The real estate project has to
achieve 30 per cent or more energy savings so that refinance can be availed by financial institutions. KfW of Germany, is providing a credit line of 50 million euro to NHB for re-financing housing loans for certified energy efficient housing units.
‘Sustained sensitization is needed for generating passion among customers that can play a pivotal role in popularizing this tool’ Besides, KfW is also providing technical assistance of 1.5 million euro for energy efficiency certification and labeling, marketing and training of key stakeholders such as housing developers, energy auditors, and housing finance institutions. -PTI
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September 28, 2012
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NEW YORK
NEW JERSEY
Upcoming
Upcoming
Fri Sept 11 to Sat Oct 20 • Aicon Gallery present Iconic Processions: Sacred Stones to Modern Masterpieces, an exhibition of works by India's Modern Masters Venue: 35 Great Jones St., New York NY 10012 Time: 6pm to 9pm Contact: 212-725-6092 Highlights: Featuring M. F. Husain, Ram Kumar, Anjolie Ela Menon, S. H. Raza, Jenhangir Sabavala, F. N. Souza and the Anonymous Masters of the Past. In Partnership with Nayef Homsi
Fri Oct 12 • Officially launch the Year of India with a free concert, Hindustani Music of North India Venue: LeFrak Concert Hall.NY
Sun Sept 30 • Dulhan Expro 2012 Venue: The Mezzanine, 744 Broad St Newark, New Jersey Time: 12pm Contact: 732-754-1894
Sat Oct 6 • Abhi to mai Javan hu Venue: North Brunswick High School, 98 Raider Rd, North Brunswick Pownship, NJ Time: 6pm Contact: 908-601-6704
Fri Oct 12 • UTSAV- UCarnival New Jersey Venue: Hilton Garden Inn Edison/Raritan Center, 50 Raritan Center Pkwy, Edison, NJ Time: 11am Contact: 510-578-8728
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Sat Sept 29 • Garba 2012 Venue: Sacred hearts School, 6250N Sheridan Rd, Chicago, IL Time: 7pm
Fri Oct 5 • Raagas in Reflection- An Indian Musical Performance by Ms Mala Ramadorai Venue: Collage of Lake Country Building C Auditorium, 19351 W, Washington St Grayslake, IL Time: 7pm Contact: 847-223-8590
Sun Oct 07
Fri July 20 to Sat Dec 15 • Turning Rumi: Singing Verses of Love, Unity and Freedom Part2 : The Art of Salma Arastu Venue: Dominican University of California, 50 Acacia Avenue, San Rafael, California 94901 Time: 2:30pm to 4:30pm (Artist Reception on Sat Sept 15at Community Gallery, Alemany Library) Contact: 415-482-2453
Fri Sept 28 • Simply Mumbai Party W/live Dholi Venue: Club Axis, 2909 Lakeside Dr Santa Clara, CA Time: 9pm Contact: 408-569-2417
• Hindi Diwas and Launch of Monthly Hindi Publication Hindi Patrika
Sat Sept 30
Venue: Indo-American Center, 6328 N California Ave, Chicago, IL Time: 4pm Contact: 847-962-8595
Venue: Palace of Fine Arts, 3301 Lyon St San Francisco, CA Time: 10:30pm Contact: 500-396-2919
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Upcoming Fri Sept 28 • End of Summer DesiBollywood/Bhangra Party at Caprice Venue: Caprice Fridays, 275 Tremont Street, 2nd Floor, Boston Time: 10pm Contact: 617-216-1492
Sun Oct 7 • Pandit Birju Maharaj (Concert of the Legend) Venue: MIT, Kresge Auditorium, 77 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge Time: 7pm Contact: 408-728-8429
• A Magical Eve of Kathak Dance
Sat Oct 6 • Disco Dandiya 2012 Venue: Santa Clara Convention Center, 5001 Great America Parkway, Santa Clara, CA Time: 7pm Contact: 408-564-3140
Sun Oct 7 • Sammilan- Folk Fusion Concert Venue: India Community Center, 525 Los Coches Street, Milpitas, CA Time: 3:30pm
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Upcoming Thurs Sept 27 • Ballet Folklorico De Mexico Venue: Palace Theater, 61 Atlantic St. Stamford, CT 06901 Time: 8pm Contact: 203-325-4466
Sun Sept 30 • Chitresh Das Dance Company performance 'Fall Free for All' Venue: Zellerbach Hall, Berkeley, CA Time: 1pm Contact: 510.642.9988 Highlights: A Full Day of Free Performances Zellerbach Hall, Pauley Ballroom, Hertz Hall, Wheeler Auditorium, Lower Sproul Plaza, Bancroft Studio, and outdoor stages across the UC Berkeley Campus Free and Open to the Public.
Thurs Oct 7 • Silent River Film Festival Venue: Edwards Westpark, 3735 Alton Pkwy, Irvine, CA Time: 2pm Contact: 949-394-5148 Highlights: the celebration and be part of the largest entertainment event of our city. Premiers,Seminars,Zen hours(After parties) and Red Carpet Award Gala.
Fri Oct 19 • Royal Drummers and Dancers of Burundi Venue: Palace Theater, 61 Atlantic St. Stamford, CT 06901 Time: 8pm Contact: 203-325-4466
Fri Nov 2 Sat Oct 13
• Spirituals to Funk
• Navratri Festival 2012
Venue: Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St. Stamford, CT 06901 Time: 8pm Contact: 203-322-9862 Highlights: Dr John And 5-time Grammy award winners Blind boys of Alabama.
Venue: Anubhuti Meditation & Amp, Retreat Center, 820 Bel Marin Keys Blvd, Novato, CA Time: 5:30pm Contact: 415-884-2314
September 28, 2012
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s humans we are trained to lie. Lying is a major part of survival. To be willing to tell the truth is to risk losing everything. When you have made a choice to be committed to the truth, then the truth is a ruthless master. That commitment will expose every aspect of hiding and every justification of that hiding. In the commitment to the discovery of the complete truth, there has to be a ruthless examination as to where we lie. What has to be faced is what you think the truth of yourself is, and how you have lied to yourself to cover it up. In discovering what it is we are denying, there can be a space - a space that is the conduit for discovering the deepest truth. First you have to tell the truth about what is truly wanted. What do you really want? Freedom and enlightenment? Really? Tell the truth. If you get freedom or enlightenment, what will that give you? Perhaps the answer is, "It will give me respect, or lovability, or fame, or eternal happiness, or power, or relief from the suffering of the world." In telling the truth you can discover what is actually wanted. You discover what you want enlightenment to supply you with.
Y
âjnavalkya was a great sage. The Shastras in India enjoin that every man should give up the world when he becomes old. So Yajnavalkya said to his wife, "My beloved, here is all my money, and my possessions, and I am going away." She replied, "Sir, if I had this whole earth full of wealth, would that give me immortality?" Yajnavalkya said, "No, it will not. You will be rich, and that will be all, but wealth cannot give us immortality." She replied, "What shall I do to gain that through which I shall become immortal? If you know, tell me." Yajnavalkya replied, "You have been always my beloved; you are more beloved now by this question. Come, take your seat, and I will tell you; and when you have heard, meditate upon it." He said, "It is not for the sake of the husband that the wife loves the husband, but for the sake of the Âtman that she loves the husband, because she loves the Self. "None loves the wife for the sake of the wife; but it is because one loves the Self that one loves the wife. None loves the children for the children; but because one
It is often not a pretty truth, but it is necessary to reveal it to yourself. That is not the end. There is more. If you are willing to tell the truth about what fame, or lovability, or power will give you, you get to the desire underneath that: It may be something like, "Everybody will love me," or "People will finally see who I am and give me what I want." And if you tell the truth about
the opportunity to meet the abyss; the huge hole that most avoid throughout life, the intimation that really you are worse than worthless, that you are nothing at all. If you are sincere in your intention to really know the truth, and if you are willing for that knowing of the truth to give you nothing but itself - no fame, no recognition, no happiness, no release, no universal love - if you
that…worse than nothingness." And there is the secret, the great revelation. Meeting the abyss is the full circle. It is coming home, coming back to yourself. The extraordinary report that everyone who has met that abyss brings back to you is that the nothingness you are is awake, alive consciousness. Awake, alive consciousness, and in love. No-thingness is ev-
Lying is a major part of survival Gangaji
Are you willing to tell the truth all the way down to the depths? Are you willing to lay bare what it is your life is really about, where your attention really is in the name of enlightenment or peace?
what that will give you, then you start to get close to what the essential yearning really is. Are you willing to tell the truth all the way down to the depths? Are you willing to lay bare what it is your life is really about, where your attention really is in the name of enlightenment or peace? Are you willing to be humbled by seeing the mechanism that is really running underneath prayers for enlightenment and peace? This is
want the truth that badly, then you are willing to fall into the abyss; to meet the abyss with your full attention; to meet the truth that you are nothing. The invitation is to just drop through all the lies. Drop your consciousness through them. Feel the burn, the pain, the ache, the horror, the delusion, the lie and the temptation to cheat with more soothing lies. "My God, I'm worse than all of
erything you have been looking for in defining yourself as somebody worth something, or somebody worthless. Everything you have been seeking is right here in the depth of your being, under all the lies. It is what has been both sought and fled from all along! It is the simplicity and purity of who you are, here now and always. Gangaji is an American born spiritual teacher and author.
loves the Self, therefore one loves the children. None loves wealth on account of the wealth; but because one loves the Self, therefore one loves wealth. "None loves the Brâhmin for the sake of the Brahmin; but because one loves the Self, one loves the Brahmin. So, none loves the Kshatriya for the sake of the
heard, reasoned about, and meditated upon. O my Maitreyi, when that Self has been heard, when that Self has been seen, when that Self has been realized, then, all this becomes known." Whenever one loves, one has to love in and through the Self. Every time we particularize an object, we differentiate it from the
thing in the universe, detaching it from the universe as a whole, from the Atman, there comes a reaction. With everything that we love outside the Self, grief and misery will be the result. If we enjoy everything in the Self, and as the Self, no misery or reaction will come. This is perfect bliss.
One has to love in and through the Self Yâjnavalkya
Kshatriya, but because one loves the Self. Neither does any one love the world on account of the world, but because one loves the Self. "None, similarly, loves the gods on account of the gods, but because one loves the Self. None loves a thing for that thing's sake; but it is for the Self that one loves it. This Self, therefore, is to be
"None loves the wife for the sake of the wife; but it is because one loves the Self that one loves the wife. None loves the children for the children; but because one loves the Self” Self. I am trying to love a woman; as soon as that woman is particularized, she is separated from the Atman, and my love for her will not be eternal, but will end in grief. But as soon as I see that woman as the Atman, that love becomes perfect, and will never suffer. So with everything; as soon as you are attached to any-
How to come to this ideal? Yajnavalkya says, "As with a drum when we are at a distance we cannot catch the sound, we cannot conquer the sound; but as soon as we come to the drum and put our hand on it, the sound is conquered." Adapted from Brihadaranyaka Upanishad
Looking closely, you see it's always the stuff you seem to be aware of that's changing and passing, never Awareness itself. -Peter Francis Dziuban It turns out that the source of everything is also who you are. Since the source of everything doesn't come and go, it must be here right now, in this very moment. -Nirmala The root of all suffering is desire. -Buddha Whatever you are pushing against, you are stuck to. -Werner Erhard It's amazing what an unlimited well of energy you have when you are insanely clear about your purpose in life. - Jonathan Nasman Enlightenment is the falling away of the sense of personal doership. -Wayne Liquorman If you can't improve on silence, don't speak. -Zen Proverb
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September 28, 2012
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China and Japan: Old rivals, new tensions NARAYANI BASU
I
n the wake of an unauthorized landing by Chinese activists from Hong Kong on one of the disputed Senkaku (known as Diaoyu in Chinese) Islands, ambitions for the future have risen to the surface in extremist nationalist retaliatory movements in China and Japan. Given the present context of strategic affairs in East Asia, what is the role of domestic nationalism in the foreign policies of both countries? Relations between China and Japan have been strained since 2010, when a Chinese fishing trawler collided with two Japanese Coast Guard ships off the Senkaku Islands and its captain was detained by Japanese authorities for two weeks. However, despite the de-escalation of regional tensions following the release of the ship's captain, public mistrust and nationalistic sentiments on either side continued to fester, creating an explosive ambience in the region. The spark to this tinder was provided by Shintaro Ishihara, Tokyo's governor, who announced the creation of a public fund in April to buy several of these islands from their private owners. Following this, five members of a group of Hong Kong activists swam ashore on one of the islands in the Senkaku chain, and planted a Chinese flag in the ground in August 2012. The activists have since been arrested by Japanese authorities. The situation was further exacerbated on August 18, when a flotilla of 21 Japanese boats disgorged 10 people near the same island, who swam ashore and planted a Japanese flag in the soil. These tit-for-tat actions were accompanied by statements of nationalist bravado which served to inflame nationalist sentiments in both countries. The Effect In reaction to the events of August 2012, massive public protests took place in China subsequent to Japan's move to counter China's territorial claim over the disputed island chain. Thousands of protestors took to the streets, smashing the windows of Japanese-owned businesses and attacking cars with Japanese brand
names. While the protests were the largest in Shenzhen, anti-Japanese protests reverberated across China, from Qingdao to Shenyang, especially outside the Japanese consulates in Guangzhou. Protestors attacked the Japanese ambassador's car in Beijing, ripping the national flag from the car, while leaving him unharmed. Officially, statements of thinly veiled hostility have been released by both Japan and China. While most of the activists on board the Japanese flotilla were members of local conservative political parties, their statements were clear about Japanese intentions to guard the country's territorial sovereignty, with one of them going so far as to state, "We need to solidly reaffirm our territory." (Bradsher,
The flag raising on uninhabitable rocks
Fackler and Jacobs: Anti-Japan Protests Erupt Over Disputed Islands in China, New York Times, 19 August 2012). China's foreign ministry called in Tokyo's ambassador to Beijing to lodge a formal protest against the event. This was backed by the state news agency Xinhua, which released a statement, to the effect that Sunday's landing had "poisoned" the atmosphere of SinoJapanese relations, and was a setback to efforts to bolster political and economic ties between the two countries. The Aftermath Since then, Japan has purchased three of the five disputed islands for US$ 26 million from a Japanese family that has claimed ownership to them for decades. China dubbed the move a direct violation of Chinese sovereignty, and moved six of its patrol boats into the waters around the islets, stating a need to defend its maritime rights and interests (Austin Ramzy: Tensions with Japan increase as China Sends Patrol Boats to Disputed Islands). The contemporary fracas over
the Senkaku Islands carries the added weight of Imperial Japan's wartime occupation of China. The islands fell under Japanese control in 1895, and were administered by the United States as part of the military base at Okinawa during World War II, only being returned to Japan by the 1970s. Since then, the question of ownership remains a touchy issue. As with most disputes over islands in the region of the Western Pacific, the potential of undersea oil and gas reserves raises the stakes for most claimants in the dispute. The basic question of territorial ownership, however, is the foundation for the more extreme strains of nationalism that exist within both countries. It is also what is guiding the moves of each country on the international stage. For both Japan and China, these strains have flared up at a sensitive time in domestic politics. In Japan, for instance, the ruling party has weakened public support in a time when the country has been ravaged by economic collapse and natural disaster. Raising its voice stridently on issues of territorial sovereignty and patriotic nationalism appears to be the only trump card left in its hands as it hopes to avoid being forced to call for early elections this year. In China, too, the run-up to the 18th Party Congress, which will see the swearing in of incumbent President Xi Jinping, precludes the showing of a neutral face on an issue which has festered over the centuries. Confrontation with Japan certainly is not an option as it will not help the harmonious image the Party wants to portray during the leadership transition, but there is also no incentive to compromise on an issue of sovereignty either, for fear of sparking simmering nationalist resentment at the Party's weakness. At the same time, the standoff with Japan has helped to shift the spotlight away from particularly irksome issues about China's political leaders themselves. For both countries, then, stoking nationalism has been the driving force behind foreign policy moves as seen in the course of August and September 2012. The writer is Research Intern, CRP, IPCS
UPA in ICU
H
opes were being expressed in some quarters that with the departure of the mercurial, obstructionist, tantrum prone Mamata Banerjee and her troupe of trapeze artists from the beleaguered UPA II government, Manmohan Singh would heave a sigh of relief and get on better with the task of governance. Particularly the railway ministry would be rid of the feudal control of Trinamool and some sensible reforms could fall in the lot of millions of harassed passengers. All this seems to be stuff of dreams as the government, reduced to a minority, is fighting for survival with its back to the wall. It is now at the mercy of a rejuvenated Mulayam Singh Yadav and a belligerent Mayawati who provide outside support to the government. Encouraged by Mamata Banerjee's operation pullout, the two stalwarts from Uttar Pradesh have tasted blood. They are going to ask for a price for their support, and take on the business of blackmailing which was so far the prerogative of the Bengal tigress. Why did Manmohan Singh take this decision of raising diesel prices, opening up FDI in retail and reducing subsidy for Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) now, when for over a year the Indian media has been crying about policy paralysis of the UPA II government? It is being alleged that when foreign media like Time magazine and Washington Post joined the chorus, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was stung to the quick and announced a number of "reformist" decisions. In the view of Mamata Banerjee and many others in the Opposition, the decision was taken to divert attention from the coal mines allocation scandal. Perhaps the two events combined to force the PM's hands. And now he is left holding a bigger crisis. He had claimed sometime back that "We'll go down fighting," which suggests that the Congress may not be averse to a mid-term poll. Having called the bluff of Mamata Banerjee, will the Congress now call the bluff of the two outside supporters who are now looming larger than life? With the BJP failing to work as a responsible opposition, Mulayam Singh Yadav bets his chances of becoming Prime Minister in 2014. He has never hidden his ambition. After his Samajwadi Party's impressive assembly elections victory in UP, he put his son Akhilesh Yadav in the chief minister's seat indicating he had set his eyes on the Delhi gaddi. There seems little chance of his ambition being fulfilled and any precipitate action at this time will further expose his limited clout. With Mayawati's BSP having more MPs in the Lok Sabha than Mamata's TMC, the SP does not want to create a situation that allows the BSP to grow closer to the Congress. The BSP too is averse to early elections as it has lost Assembly polls only six months back and would like to wait for some anti-incumbency to develop against the SP in UP. This leaves the Congress in a more precarious position than before, having to seek the approval of its outside allies for any significant move it wants to make in governance. Moreover, it has got a jolt from the South with ally DMK joining the nationwide bandh called by opposition parties. The UPA must have thought that instead of piecemeal announcing of reformist measures and later rollback, as done before, it would announce four measures in a lump sum. It might have to rollback on one or two issues, still some of the reformist measures would survive. But the "bombshell" seems to have allowed even allies like the DMK to pretend to be pro-people by joining the strike. The Congress could consider an interesting alternative. Mamata has suggested that if the UPA diluted the reform measures a bit, it could reconsider the pullout. The Congress might be tempted to do the dilution bit but tell Mamata to stay away. This way it could muddle through to 2014 without blackmail from the east.
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