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Obama India visit plan triggers new hope Details on page 16

Modi slips to second spot in Time's poll

VOL 20, No. 1055

December 5, 2014

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U.S. TEAM IN DELHI TO TALK DEFENSE

NEW DELHI: Ahead of US President Barack Obama's visit here next month, an American delegation has arrived here for talks on defense technology transfer and joint production.

The American inter-agency delegation, including officials from the State Department, Pentagon and the US Pacific Command, is headed by Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs Puneet Talwar, who is on a

four-day visit here.

He will hold talks on regional and maritime security, defense trade, and new areas for strategic cooperation with senior officials from the External Affairs and Defense Ministry. During his visit, Talwar will seek opportunities to further expand India-US security cooperation, including support for the Department of Defense's US-India Defense Trade and Technology Initiative.

Details on page 5

Details on page 5

Venkatesan Ashok takes over as CG in SF Details on page 24

Modi getting rock star deal from investors Details on page 44

Pact with US for agriculture, food security Details on page 44

NY consulate to restore historic building

Rajan says don't want flipflop in policy

Details on page 5

Details on page 44

Rahul leads dharna against govt's 'U-turns'

CONTENTS Bollywood ---------------------- 28-29 Classifieds ------------------------- 48

Details on page 8

Community Post -------------- 16-27 Date Book -------------------------- 47

INDIA POST SURVEY

Edit Page --------------------------- 54 HealthScience Post --------- 32-35

survey@indiapost.com

Horoscope ------------------------- 49

This week’s question

Immigration Post ------------- 36-39

Is the heavy voting in J&K aimed at keeping out BJP?

Life Style ----------------------- 50-52 Philosophy ------------------------- 53

Last week’s result

Will Obama be able to override the immigration storm?

YES 47%

NO 53%

Publisher’s Diary ------------------ 4

HEAVY VOTING: Voters wait in queues at a polling station to cast their votes for Assembly elections in Handwara district of Jammu and Kashmir on December 2. A record 71 percent vote was cast in the second phase. (Details on page 10)

Real Estate -------------------- 30-31 TechBiz Post ------------------- 44-46 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 40-43

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Publisher’s Diary

F

ifty years since the landmark piece of civil rights legislation in the United States that outlawed discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex and national origin was passed, not much has changed in terms of core beliefs at the heart of America's national identity.

It's ironic that in 2014 we should be seeing scenes similar to those the world witnessed on the streets of America in the '50s and '60s, where people are still asking for the end of discrimination and a life of dignity for Blacks.

Ferguson, Missouri, to my mind, has been long waiting to happen. No, it's not just about Michael Brown any more. It's years of lingering suppression, profiling, education and employment discrimination and potent poverty among Black communities across the nation that's blowing up in violent protests on the streets of American cities coast to coast.

One of our photographers, who sent in pictures of the street protests in New York, captioned them as "Indian style protests", which I thought was uncannily true. I haven't seen such angst against the system among the American people since I moved to this country as I am seeing now. Unlike in countries like India, where protests of any nature spill onto the streets and turn violent, I have always marveled at the restraint with which Americans behave when it comes to expressing public outrage against the system.

In 1964, Sidney Poitier became the first Black actor to win an Oscar, and Martin Luther King Jr. won the Nobel Peace Prize, and that seems to have meant nothing - fifty years hence, those achievements have remained largely symbolic because even today we are only making symbolic gestures towards racial equality like electing a President from "among them".

As one African American professor said, mass incarceration is the civil rights issue of the 21st century, and the black community should utilize this 50th anniversary year of the Civil Rights Act to push to end a system that discredits democracy.

Perhaps Ferguson is the contemporary turning point in racial politics. But will this be the end point of inequality? No, of course not.

Romesh K Japra rkjapra@indiapost.com

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HIGHLIGHTS Bollywood: She's sick Due to extreme cold in the UK and Poland during long shooting schedule of 'Shandaar', Alia developed high fever.

Cover Story: Defense talks An American delegation has arrived in New Delhi for talks on defense technology transfer and joint production.

Community: Obama visit Obama’s plan to visit India has triggered huge enthusiasm and hope among Indian Americans across the country

At States’ mercy Obama’s action doesn't mean the States will let the immigrants drive a car, get an education or obtain health insurance.

Life style: Bollywood bound California based actor-director Rahul Nath has made a mark in Bollywood with his portrayal of Gary in 'Happy Ending.'

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Status quo RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan has defended status quo saying he does not want to "flip-flop" on monetary policy

Shimla The one-time summer capital of the British, Shimla is a gorgeous hill station in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.

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US team in Delhi to talk defense NEW DELHI: Ahead of US President Barack Obama's visit here next month, an American delegation has arrived here for talks on defense technology transfer and joint production.

The American inter-agency delegation, including officials

trade, and new areas for strategic cooperation with senior officials from the External Affairs and Defense Ministry.

During his visit, Talwar will seek opportunities to further expand India-US security cooperation, including support for the Depart-

Among the items that are under consideration is a long-range UAV that would be able to cover about 10,000 kms non-stop and would be in air for a longer duration of about 24 hours, sources said. Other items are naval guns, mine scattering anti-tank vehicles from the State Department, Pentagon and the US Pacific Command, is headed by Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs Puneet Talwar, who is on a four-day visit here.

He will hold talks on regional and maritime security, defense

ment of Defense's US-India Defense Trade and Technology Initiative.

According to sources, India has shortlisted five of the 17 hitech items of military hardware offered by the US for co-production and co-development under

Defense Trade and Technology Initiative (DTTI), started under the UPA government.

Among the items that are under consideration is a long-range UAV that would be able to cover about 10,000 kms non-stop and would be in air for a longer duration of about 24 hours, sources said. Other items are naval guns, mine scattering anti-tank vehicles, unmanned aerial surveillance system, Javelin missiles, and aircraft landing system for carriers.

Despite India opting for the Israeli "Spike" anti-tank guided missile (ATGM), the US-made Javelin has not been ruled out, sources said.

The US has offered to co-produce the third-generation Javelin ATGMs, and co-develop its fourth-generation version.

It is believed that India had preinformed the US about its decision to opt for the Israeli missile to meet its immediate and short-

term needs.

"We respect the Indian decision making process on this. It is a sovereign decision that India has to make. Obviously we think that American products and

Puneet Talwar

American systems have a lot to offer. We would have liked to win that (Javelin) competition.

"But there is a huge amount of possibility, and a number of

spheres we want to talk to India about," US Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs, Puneet Talwar said on the eve of his visit.

Obama is slated to visit India next month as the Chief Guest at Republic Day parade and sources said a number of Indo-US deals are likely to be sealed around that time.

During the visit, Talwar will also view US and Indian joint ventures in the defense sector in Hyderabad, deliver remarks at the Institute for Defense Studies and Analyses, and hold a roundtable discussion with the US-India Business Council, the US State Department said in a statement.

"In recent years, the US and India have significantly broadened our defense cooperation, as demonstrated by our increased bilateral dialogues, military exercises, and military personnel exchanges," the statement said.-PTI

New York consulate to restore Modi slips to second spot in Time's poll historic building NEW YORK: India is planning to renovate its 111-year-old consulate building here to preserve its heritage and bring it back to its former glory.

The Consulate building is a part of the Upper East Side Historic District, as declared by the Landmarks Preservation Commission of New York in 1981.

The Beaux Arts street facade is constructed of Indiana Limestone with a mansard roof of blue slate. The design is in the manner of Percier and Fontaine, who revived the French Renaissance style of Hardouin Mansart, a statement by the Indian consulate said.

The building was built for Carrie Astor, a prominent American socialite, in 1903 as a private residence.

In 1950, it was bought by the Indian government and came to be known as New India House. The building houses the Consulate General of India since then.

The Consulate had already been conducting an extensive cleanliness drive, since April 2013, much before the October 2 launch of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Swachh Bharat campaign.

Paperwork dated older than three decades, decrepit equipment and potential bio-hazards, which were occupying precious space in the pre-war era building, were weeded out and destroyed.

Roughly 90,000 documents

were scanned and digitalized daily in the first few months, to salvage paperwork that was still required for reference. Incidentally, a long lost life-size portrait of Sardar Patel was also unearthed in this drive, in addition to precious glassware and cutlery.

At the end of the cleaning

phase of the drive, the Consulate is now looking into restoration and renovation of the building to bring it back to its former glory, the statement said.

In keeping with the 'Swachh Bharat' campaign, the Indian Consulate here undertook a massive cleanliness drive at its premises and is being hailed as a model of 'Swachh Consulate,' setting an example for other Indian missions and posts abroad to take up similar efforts.

The clean-up exercise was conducted last month with the aim of serving the community better and keeping visa and passport records in a proper and easy to access manner.

"I think we should be clean in every respect," Consul General Dnyaneshwar Mulay said, adding that a clean environment has a psychological impact on the morale of the staff.

"Only when you keep the premises clean can one serve the people better."

The cleanliness drive is about "overall and holistic cleansing," Mulay told PTI. The initiative has garnered appreciation from External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj who said in a communication to the Consul General that the extensive cleanliness drive "has come in for much praise as a stellar example." -PTI

WASHINGTON: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has slipped to the second place in the Time magazine's 'Person of the Year' poll with the Ferguson protesters surging ahead of him in a vote by the readers.

As per latest reports, Modi is leading second with 9.8 per cent of the total votes polled so far while the Ferguson protesters are leading with 10.8 per cent of the votes.

Joshua Wong, face of the Hong Kong pro-democracy movement, is placed third.

Nobel Peace prize winner Malala Yousafzai (5.3 per cent) and Russian President Vladimir Putin are placed fourth and fifth respectively.

US President Barack Obama is placed at a distant 11th position with just 2.4 per cent of the total votes.

The annual poll, which is currently underway, is scheduled to end on December 6 and the poll's winner will be announced on December 8.

However, it is the TIME's editors who will choose the Person of the Year, which is scheduled to be announced on December 10.

Till November 26, Modi was leading the polls with 11.1 per cent of the total votes while Ferguson protesters with 8.8 per cent were ranked second.

But support for Ferguson protesters surged after a recent grand jury's decision of not to indict a white police officer who fatally shot an unarmed black man which caused an outcry across the United States.

"Ferguson protesters surged ahead this week of the leader of

Narendra Modi

the world's largest democracy," Time magazine said in a story titled 'Modi Drops From Lead in TIME's Person of the Year Poll.'

"Modi, the newly elected Indian prime minister and leader of the largest democracy in the world, has raised high hopes among Indians that he can invigorate the country's economy and cut bureaucratic red tape that has slowed development in India," the magazine said. -PTI

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India, France to fast-rack Rafale deal NEW DELHI: India and France have agreed to iron out contentious issues like pricing and a guarantee clause for French firm Dassault to fast-track the estimated USD 15 billion deal for 126 Rafale fighter jets.

The issue came up for discussion during the delegation-level talks last evening between Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar and his French counterpart JeanYves Le Drian.

"The talks were held in a cordial atmosphere. All issues related to India-French defense cooperation were discussed," Defense Ministry Spokesman Sitanshu Kar said.

Asked about the Rafale deal, he said both sides agreed there were matters on which differences still exist between the two sides and that this would be resolved in a "fast-tracked manner".

India had in 2012 selected the Rafale jet but the final negotiations are still continuing between the Defense Ministry and Dassault Aviation.

The deal with India is a big one for the Rafale fighter as it will be the first mega export order for the aircraft.

Though the deal was first valued at about USD 10 billion in 2007 when the Request for Proposal (RFP) was issued, the figure has shot up to over USD 15

billion, sources said.

Differences have cropped up over various issues from pricing to work-sharing.

As per the RFP, the first 18 jets are to be imported and the rest manufactured under license by

critical issue that is delaying the inking of the deal.

The Defense Ministry is of the view that the guarantee clause was part of the Air Staff Qualitative Requirements (ASQR) under the RFP.

since May. French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius had met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and then Defense Minister Arun Jaitley in June and had pushed for early implementation of the

India's Russian-made fleet of MiG-21 and MiG-27 planes, had stood over combat aircraft manufactured by rivals like Boeing and Lockheed Martin.

At present, India has 34 fighter jet squadrons (16-18 planes in

Union Minister for Defense Manohar Parrikar and the French Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian, at the delegation level talks, in New Delhi on December 1

Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL).

According to Defense sources, Dassault was reluctant to stand guarantee for the 108 fighters to be built by HAL as far as liquidity damages and timelines for production was concerned.

This, the sources say, is the

Dassault had agreed to the ASQR and hence was selected for the deal, sources maintained.

"How can the ASQR be relaxed?

This is not allowed under the Defense Procurement Procedure, 2013," the sources said.

This is the second time that France has raised the issue of Rafale with the NDA government

Rafale deal.

Fabius had said France hopes that with the new government, which was keen on efficiency, the implementation of the decision will be swift and had expressed confidence of a "positive outcome" to the ongoing negotiations in the deal.

Rafale, which would replace

each) against the projected need of 45 squadrons.

The French Defense Minister also presented Parrikar with two photographs of Indian soldiers in World War 1.

Both the leaders also agreed that Indo-French Strategic Partnership of 1998 will be taken forward.-PTI

Modi's advice on Constitution not interference: Nepal KATHMANDU: Nepal has rejected media reports that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's advice to Nepalese leaders to forge a consensus for drafting the Constitution amounted to interference in the country's affairs.

"It was a friendly advice of India, we should not take it as interference," Nepalese Foreign Minister Mahendra Bahadur Pandey said.

"Drafting of a timely Constitution by forging consensus among all political parties, is what we are trying to achieve, and I do not consider it as an intervention in our matters," Pandey clarified, adding that "it was neither any formula or dictation by India".

Modi's advice to Nepal's warring political parties on the Constitution-making process was criticized by the media here which termed it as "breaching of diplomatic norms".

Critical comments appeared in some of Nepal's national newspapers regarding Modi's advice to political parties on the longdelayed drafting of the

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shakes hands with Nepalese President Ram Baran Yadav at a meeting in Kathmandu on November 26

country's constitution.

During his bilateral engagements with Nepalese political leaders on his recent visit to

Nepal to attend the SAARC Summit, Modi had urged them to forge consensus to draft the Constitution and asked them not

to delay the process and meet the January 22 deadline.

There is a common concern among the international commu-

nity that the achievements of the Peoples' Movement of 2006 should be consolidated and move forward the country towards economic progress and development by maintaining peace and political stability, Pandey said.

To another question, he said the cancellation of Modi's visit to religious site at Janakpur was not the outcome of internal differences among political parties in Nepal about the visit, but it was due to the busy schedule of the Indian prime minister who had a tight schedule, he said.

"Modi was wishing to visit the religious sites of Nepal including Janakpur and Lumbini and he will come back and visit the sites at the earliest possible time," Pandey said.

The Indian Prime Minister had been scheduled to visit Janakpur, birthplace of Sita, Lumbini, birthplace of Lord Buddha, and another sacred Hindu pilgrimage site, Muktinath, located in the southern mountainous region during his visit to Nepal. -PTI

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'India, China can quickly resolve Rahul leads dharna against govt's 'U-turns' border dispute' BEIJING: India and China can quickly resolve their vexed boundary dispute as they have governments with strong mandates to reach an agreement with most of the spadework already completed, former National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon has said.

While the border remained

2003 and headed the 15 of the 17 rounds of held so far, said, "If we address the boundary issue the potential for cooperation will be fully tapped."

"The two sides should make efforts to address the boundary issue as early as possible," Dai said.

"Of course we cannot solve it

Shivshankar Menon

largely peaceful in the last three decades without a gunshot fired, emotions run high in both countries with "scary stories", Menon said in a lengthy interaction with students of the Peking University here after speaking on 'India's National Security Strategy and India-China Relations.'

"There are a lot of scary stories, especially on the internet. If you read internet opinion in India and China, it runs very hot. That is the world we live in today. That is why we say the quicker we can settle (border dispute), the better.

Because the ultimate conflict resolution tool is really settling the boundary," said Menon, who was the designated Special Representatives for Sino-India boundary dispute under the UPA government.

"I think we can do it. Because we have governments in both the countries today who have strong mandates and very clear strategic ideas where they want to take their countries," said Menon, who took part in the interaction along with his long standing former Chinese Sino-India boundary negotiator Dai Bingguo.

"To my mind, we have a moment we can actually do it today. I think all the technical work has been done by Dai Bingguo and his Indian counterparts. I say this in India and here this boundary can be settled. It is time we settle, the quicker we do it, the better," he said.

Endorsing Menon's remarks, Dai who was China's Special Representative for the boundary talks since they were established in

overnight. Over the past decades we have done something, laid some ground work. It is not a waste of time," said Dai, who retired in 2012 as China's top diplomat.

"I believe the boundary issue will be addressed sooner or later, when conditions are mature. This problem can be addressed.

Boundary issue to some extent is an impediment to the bilateral ties.

If we deal with it properly, we can enhance the mutual trust and create favorable environment for bilateral relations," he said.

Until an agreement is reached, the two countries have to ensure

between Doval and his Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi in the near future.

Menon is currently in Beijing to attend the North Pavilion dialogue between top strategic analysts arranged by the Peking University's Strategic Studies Institute.

Answering a question on blunting the riding tide of emotions on both sides, Menon said both countries need to be open about the dialogue process.

"The governments have gotten to the habit of keeping things to themselves. We need to be much more open about the actual situation on the border," Menon said "Over the time we have learnt to live with each other on the border even though the boundary is not settled. We have signed a series of agreements, we have done CBMs. I think India and China together don't take enough credit for it," he said.

"We should go and tell the world here is an example how we successfully managed the world's largest boundary dispute and make sure that it does not affect the rest of the relationship and stays peaceful," he said.

Menon said the two countries should do much more in trade, border trade and travel contacts across the border, which softens the edges of the border.

"A lot of it is because it is so remote and nobody knows what is actually happening to see the report which frankly makes no sense. Those generate lot of emotion," Menon said apparently referring to reports of incursions

Answering a question on blunting the riding tide of emotions on both sides, Menon said both countries need to be open about the dialogue process. ‘The governments have gotten to the habit of keeping things to themselves. We need to be much more open about the actual situation tranquility and peace along the border areas, Dai said.

"We have to manage this area properly. Over the past decades no gunshot fired and no serious tensions prevailed. We need to make sure that it continues," Dai said.

The comments by the top two former negotiators of the boundary dispute came days after India announced that current National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval will be India's new Special Representative for the talks.

Preparations are underway for the 18th round of talks to be held

along the LAC. Elaborating on why the border dispute is taking so long to be resolved, Menon said, the two sides needed to do their homework first.

"Need to come to common understanding first where we are.

I think we are much closer, which is why preceded from general to the particular," he said.

When the Special Representatives were appointed in 2003, the two sides set off a three stage process. The Guiding Principles and Political Parameters for the settlement was reached in 2005. -PTI

NEW DELHI: Rahul Gandhi led dharna by Congress leaders in Parliament House against the Narendra Modi government's 'Uturns", a day after the AICC released a booklet listing "umpteen somersaults" of the ruling BJP dispensation on a range of promises.

Gandhi and other party MPs

"chhe mahine paar, U-turn sarkar" (Six months after, a U-turn sarkar), it has said the Prime Minister and his government have gone back on virtually each and every poll pitch "with a U-turn every week" Senior party leader Kamal Nath remarked that the Modi government has made a "large number of

Rahul Gandhi leads Congress protest outside Parliament against Modi government, calling it "U-turn sarkar"

staged the odd 20-minute dharna in front of the statue of Mahatma Gandhi just after the meeting of the Parliamentary Affairs Committee (PAC) of the party headed by Congress chief Sonia Gandhi.

The Congress vice-president flaunted a copy of the booklet in hand along with other MPs in which Congress ridiculed the BJP regime as a "farce" in the name of government, accusing it of going back on a range of promises from black money to incursions.

In the 30-page booklet titled

U-turns".

"The people of the country must know that what they were saying before and what they are saying today are too entirely different things - the contradictions and the lies which they have been telling."

"It is an issue which we want to get to the people.

People must see the number of U-turns which have been made...how the government is fooling the people", Nath said.PTI

Afghanistan unhappy over India delay in supply of arms KATHMANDU: Afghanistan's new regime has expressed unhappiness over India's delay in supply of military hardware as it grapples with intensified Taliban attacks ahead of the US-led NATO troop drawdown from the war-torn country.

Giving an indication of new government's policy towards India, Advisor to the Afghan President, Daoud Sultanzoy said the relationship between the two countries will be based on "reciprocity" and that New Delhi can play a vital role in ensuring peace in the region.

Asked whether Afghanistan was disappointed over delay in bolstering its military capabilities, he said "Naturally when we look for cooperation with our friends like India and any delay that hampers progress and hampers productivity and economic

progress in the country is seen in our eyes as a delay that creates a void. That void gives way to violence and deprivation," he said.

Afghanistan has been trying to revamp its military to fight the resurgent Taliban as NATO forces are due to withdraw from the country by December 31 after 13 years of fighting.

He also indicated that it may have a relook at the "inventory" depending on its needs.

Around 12,000 NATO forces will continue to assist Afghan forces after the troop drawdown.

Sultanzoy who handles foreign policy in the new Afghan establishment, said there may be a re-examination of the defense inventory sought from India by the previous government of President Hamid Karzai.-PTI

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Af prez played key role in Modi-Sharif handshake KATHMANDU: Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and other SAARC leaders played a key role in bringing together Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistan counterpart Nawaz Sharif for a handshake that ended their cold vibes at the recent SAARC summit, Nepal's foreign minister has said.

"Nepal was making efforts not only for a handshake between India and Pakistan, but we were also trying to bring closer the minds of the two leaders," Nepalese Foreign Minister Mahendra Bahadur Pandey told PTI. "While handing over invitations to the SAARC leaders ahead of the Summit to seek their participation, I had personally met SAARC Foreign Ministers, heads of the government and state and at that time I had stressed on the need to create an atmosphere of trust, understanding and improving relations among the SAARC leaders so as to make the regional grouping more vibrant and effec-

tive," he said.

"During my talks in Kathmandu not only with the two leaders, but also with other SAARC leaders I had underlined the need to resolve mutual prob-

Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India and Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif closer, President of Afghanistan, Ashraf Ghani had also played an important role," said Pandey, without elaborating.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi shakes hands with his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif as Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani looks on, at the 18th SAARC Summit in Kathmandu, Nepal on November 27

lems among them if there are any.

"Besides the efforts made by Nepal to bring the two leaders,

India eases visa facility for travelers SURENDRA ULLAL

CHICAGO: Nine international dan, Norway and Mauritius airports in India including among others would be getting Mumbai, Delhi and Hyderabad will the e-visa facility in the first phase, issue e-Visas to citizens of 43 according to travel industry countries. Informed sources say sources here. that the facility will be extended All the 12 countries currently to other cities once the Immigra- enjoying the Visa on Arrival (VoA) tion people are trained and other facility, including South Korea, checks are in place Japan, Finland, Singapore, New Visitors from 43 countries, in- Zealand, Indonesia, Burma, Vietcluding Israel, Palestine, Germany nam and Laos, will also get the eand the US will be able to avail of Visa facility. the much-awaited electronic visa Mexico, Kenya and Fiji are also facility. However, the facility will being considered for the facility. not be available to people from India is being promoted as a 365countries like Pakistan, Sudan, Afghanistan, In order to get an e-Visa, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Sri one would need to apply on Lanka and Somalia.

In order to get an e- the designated website Visa, one would need to apply on the desig- along with the required fees. nated website along An electronic version of the with the required fees. visa will be granted with An electronic version of the visa will be granted 96 hours with 96 hours. All arrangements have been made and day destination with Incredible the system will be operational at India road shows currently held nine international airports Delhi, at many countries offering many Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, products. e-Visa would be a hisHyderabad, Bengaluru, Kochi, toric occasion for the tourism secThiruvananthapuram and Goa. tor as we have been demanding Union Home Minister Rajnath this facility for long. The launchSingh along with Tourism Minis- ing of the e-Visa system for so ter Mahesh Sharma rolled out the many countries will boost the ine-Visa facility. dustry," asserted Mafat Patel, Countries like Russia, Brazil, CEO of a front ranking travel Thailand, the UAE, Ukraine, Jor- agency Air Tours in Chicago.

"Ghani is a highly intellectual leader and he possesses the capacity to do so. That's why I would say that Nepal had taken initiative for the handshake between the two leaders, but the effort was made collectively by all SAARC leaders as well," he said.

Host country Nepal had organized a retreat at picturesque Dhulikhel town near Kathmandu, where Modi and Sharif shook hands twice on the last day of the two-day summit.

Pakistan's decision to consult Kashmiri separatists ahead of Foreign Secretary-level talks led to cancellation of the dialogue by India in August.

Lack of warmth between the two prime ministers at the SAARC summit was reflective of the sudden slide in Indo-Pak ties after Sharif had attended Modi's swearing-in ceremony as did most of the SAARC leaders in May this year.

To a question whether it was "merely a handshake" or any "meaningful talks had taken place" between the two leaders, Pandey said "now there has been a gradual realization among SAARC leaders that they should sort out differences, forge understanding and cooperate among themselves for resolving problems, rather than escalating tension and intensifying differences".

"This is the beginning of dialogue, discussion and exchanges of views among the SAARC leaders," he added.

To a question, regarding what message the 18th SAARC Summit conveyed, he said, "The 18th SAARC Summit has stressed on the need to forge cooperation and collaboration among the member states for reducing poverty, providing quality education and creating an environment of trust".-PTI

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71% turnout in second phase of J&K polls NEW DELHI: In a rerun of record polling in the first phase, a 71 per cent voter turnout was registered in the second phase of incident-free Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir on Dec 2 as the electorate in the 18 seats again ignored boycott call by separatist groups.

Election commission officials said the figure could go up by one to two per cent once the final tally is available.

Dealing a serious blow to separatist politics, enthusiastic voters stood in serpentine queues at several polling stations waiting for their turn.

The first phase of the five-phase polls

for 15 seats on November 25 had witnessed a record 71.28 per cent polling.

"The latest figures that we have for the second phase of polls in Jammu and Kashmir is 71 per cent. We expect these numbers to go up by 1-2 per cent further," Deputy Election Commissioner Vinod Zutshi told reporters in Delhi.

Mr. Zutshi said that during the entire phase on Dec 2, where 18 Assembly seats in five districts went to polls, "no untoward incident" took place and the entire event was peaceful. Of the five districts, two were in the Valley and three in Jammu.

"There was no incident that vitiated the poll process in the State during this phase," he said, adding that "pretty heavy" voting was reported in Reasi and Udhampur districts.

The poll percentage, the Deputy EC said, is higher than the figure of 61.04 per cent polling during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and 68.79 per cent recorded during the 2008 Assembly elections.

The corresponding figures for voting on Dec 2 in the five districts stood at Reasi (80 per cent), Udhampur (76 per cent), Poonch (75 per cent), Kupwara (68 per cent) and Kulgam (above 60 per cent).-PTI

PM disapproves of Sadhvi Niranjan's remarks NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has disapproved of the controversial remarks by Union Minister Sadhvi Niranjan Jyoti, saying such comments were "not acceptable" and asked party MPs to refrain from remarks that gave a bad name to the government and the party.

Sources said the Prime Minister, while addressing the BJP Parliamentary Party, told the MPs to be cautious while making public comments and asked them not to give any "address to the nation."

Sources said the Prime Minister did not name anyone but later conveyed to the minister concerned to apologies for the remarks made by her at a public rally in the national capital.

The remarks triggered a major controversy with the opposition forcing her to apologize. The issue also rocked Parliament, paralyzing the functioning of the Rajya Sabha.

BJP has asked all party MPs to address public meetings in Delhi during the current winter session ahead of Assembly elections slated early next year. Of them, 225 have given their approval and their programs are being fixed, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Rajiv Pratap Rudy said.

Rudy later said the meetings will be held every evening from 6 PM to 10 PM in every area of Delhi. The party MPs will be briefed accordingly in the next three days at separate meetings for first-timers, second-time MPs and senior party parliamentarians.

During such meetings, party MPs will be asked to make their strategy and chalk out programs for campaigning in Delhi.-PTI

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Vajpayee's b'day to be 'Good Tiger Woods is Hero's global brand ambassador Governance Day' NEW DELHI: Former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee's birthday on December 25 would be observed as national 'Good Governance Day', Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said.

Modi was addressing party MPs at the meeting of the BJP Parliamentary Party, where BJP President Amit Shah was also present.

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the party MPs that the birthday of former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee would be observed as national 'Good Governance Day' on December 25, where all BJP MPs and government officials will make the day symbolic of good governance," Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Rajiv Pratap Rudy told reporters.

He said the Prime Minister also asked all party MPs to highlight all BJP-run governments and bodies across the country as models of good governance on the day.

"The Prime Minister also asked the BJP MPs to work for an hour in their respective constituencies for the 'Clean India' campaign," Rudy said after the meeting at Parliament library building.

Earlier Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu congratulated the Prime Minister for his "successful" foreign visits to

SAARC and Australia where he attended the G-20 Summit as party MPs felicitated the Prime Minister.

Party Chief Amit Shah told the members to step up efforts for BJP's membership drive as it had crossed the 1.1 crore membership mark so far. Shah said the party

in Assam the daily online membership had swelled from 4,0006,000 to 75,000 in a single day.

Talking about Delhi elections, the party president said all MPs will address around 2,000 poll meetings in the national capital and around 200 MPs have already

Former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee

aims at making 10 crore members in this membership drive from the current 4 crore members.

Shah cited the example of Prime Minister Modi where on his plea

given their nod for addressing such meeting in Delhi during the current Winter Session of Parliament ahead of Delhi Assembly polls. -PTI

Will file defamation case against BJP: Kejriwal NEW DELHI: Former Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has said his party will file a criminal defamation case against BJP which has alleged that AAP was diverting funds from NGOs of its leaders.

Kejriwal also challenged the BJP to disclose the list of their donors as his party has done and accused the saffron party of "terrorizing" those who have donated money to AAP. He also took a jibe at the media for "arbitrary coverage" of the allegations leveled by the BJP. "Media has widely covered arbitrary and baseless allegations

by BJP against our funding. We are filing criminal defamation against BJP. "I have been challenging BJP and Congress to disclose their list of donors (the way we do). Would media give similar coverage to us?

For the first time, a political party (is) trying transparent funding n

disclosing its list of donors.

BJP trying to terrorize our donors. Fair?" the AAP chief posted on Twitter.

AAP had organized lunch for traders, with an entry fee of Rs 20,000. The party collected a whopping sum of Rs 50 lakh.

In a similar event held in Mumbai, the party had fetched Rs 91 lakh, taking the total to Rs 1.41 crore in just two such events.

Accusing AAP of diverting funds from NGOs of its leaders, Delhi BJP had called for a probe into such events. -PTI

Arvind Kejriwal

ORLANDO (Florida): India's two-wheeler giant, the Hero Group, has signed American golf legend Tiger Woods as its brand ambassador in a four-year deal that targets capturing new markets in North America and Europe.

The deal, for an undisclosed amount, can be termed as the biggest for an Indian manufacturer in terms of association with a global icon is concerned.

Interestingly, the announcement came two days before the start of the prestigious PGA event World Challenge, which is hosted by Tiger Woods Foundation and Hero MotoCorp Ltd as the title sponsors.

"We have gone beyond the Hero World Challenge and we will also have Tiger Woods as our corporate partner for the next four years starting from December 1," Pawan Munjal, Managing Director, Hero Motocorp Limited, told a select media gathering here.

"It is an endorsement deal with Tiger Woods in which he will not only be partnering but also promoting Hero as a brand across the globe," Munjal said adding that "It is not just for the US market."

Hero Group is world's largest two-wheeler manufacturer but still considered only a domestic player. Joining hands with

Woods is clearly a move to create a space at global level. The 38-year-old golf legend is a 14time major championship winner, second only to Jack Nicklaus (18).

Asked what made them choose a player, whose reputation took a beating five years

Tiger Woods

back due to his infidelity scandal, Munjal said they have taken a very "conscious" decision.

"Let me tell you, we are absolutely thrilled to be in a partnership with Tiger. Hero and Tiger together represent the best in our respective professions."-PTI

Terror from Pak core global concern: Govt NEW DELHI: Terror emanating from the territory under Pakistan's control remains a core global concern and the neighboring country should not allow its soil to be used for terrorism against India, government has said.

"There is a growing recognition and public acknowledgement by the international community that Pakistan pursues terrorism as an instrument of state policy," Minister of State for Home Haribhai Parathibhai Chaudhary told Lok Sabha.

The Minister said India has conveyed strongly to Pakistan the need for it to honor its commitment of not allowing its territory and areas under its control to be used for terrorism against India in any manner.

"The government continues to take all necessary steps to safeguard India's territorial integrity and safety and security of its people," he said in reply to a written question.

Replying to another question, Chaudhary said that India and the United States have not entered into any agreement on the issue of terrorism.

"However, in the joint statement issued during the visit of the Prime Minister to the US, the Prime Minister and the President of the US reaffirmed their deep concern over the continued threat posed by terrorism and underlined the need for continued comprehensive global efforts to combat and defeat terrorism," he said. -PTI

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2014 could be hottest year on record Johannesburg Gurudwara open after 8 yr legal battle

WASHINGTON: The world could witness the hottest year this year with the first 10 months of 2014 being the warmest since record keeping began more than 130 years ago, a top US scientific agency has warned.

The first ten months of 2014 have been the hottest since record keeping began more than 130 years ago, according to latest data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Despite the early bitter cold across parts of the US in recent weeks, it has been a hot year so far for the Earth.

With two months left on the calendar, 2014 is shaping up to be the hottest year on record, it said.

The average global temperature between January and October has been 0.68 degrees Celsius (1.22 degrees Fahrenheit) higher than the 20th century's average global temperature of 14.1 C (57.4 F).

This October was the hottest October on record globally, NOAA data showed. The mercury climbed more than one degree Fahrenheit above the 20th century average of 57.1 F. It was the fourth warmest October on record for the US, the NOAA, under the US Department

of Commerce, said.

"The record high October temperature was driven by warmth across the globe over both the land and ocean surfaces and was fairly evenly distributed between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres," CNN quoted the agency

Scientists have long predicted that a change in global average temperature of just 2 to 3 degrees higher could spell disaster for the planet, contributing to catastrophic storms, sea level rise as saying.

NOAA's analysis breaks down global temperatures into two categories -- land and ocean -- then an average that includes both. The record high temperatures in October were recorded across both land and sea.

The surface temperature on land approached an important scientific benchmark. It was almost 2

degrees Celsius higher than the 20th century average for October of 9.3 C (48.7 F).

Scientists have long predicted that a change in global average temperature of just 2 to 3 degrees higher could spell disaster for the planet, contributing to catastrophic storms, sea level rise, dangerous storm surges and melting polar ice.

According to the non-binding international agreement on climate change - the Copenhagen Accord, reached in 2009 - any temperature increase above the 2 degree Celsius mark is "dangerous."

NOAA said the ocean temperatures were also the warmest on record in October with an increase of 1.12 F over the 20th century average of 60.6 degrees.

"Record warmth for the yearto-date was particularly notable across much of northern and western Europe, parts of Far East Russia, and large areas of the northeastern and western equatorial Pacific Ocean," NOAA said.

"It is also notable that record warmth was observed in at least some areas of every continent and major ocean basin around the world," the agency said.-PTI

JOHANNESBURG: The Sikhcommunity here finally got its own Gurudwara, modeled on traditional architecture from the religious shrines of Indian state of Punjab, after an eight-year-long battle with their white South African neighbors who were opposed to its construction.

The Johannesburg Gurudwara, set to become a major tourist attraction in the suburb of Parkmore, was officially opened with hundreds of guests from the community in attendance.

Harbinder Singh Sethi, a local businessman, has donated the land for the 15 million rand Gurudwara Sahib which had been running on a temporary basis on the site.

Though the plan to construct a Gurudwara ran into trouble after the Parkmore Residents Association objected to the construction of the religious site, with its 91 members alleging that Sethi had initially said he would build a house on the land but then used it for temple facilities.

Executive Manager of the Association, Brian Robertson, said at the time that the residents had

objected to the proposed three golden domes on the Gurudwara because "it did not fit into the aesthetic look of the rest of the buildings in the area".

This has been a common refrain in many areas of South Africa, which were formerly reserved for the white community.

After the first democratic elections in 1994 many Indian-South Africans started moving in these areas and attempted to build mosques and temples there.

After 1994, many Sikhs also came to work and settle in South Africa, resulting in Gurudwaras being built in Durban and Cape Town before the Johannesburg one, which would have been the first in the country had the construction not been delayed due to the various objections.

The new Gurudwara has a prayer hall, an education centre and a food hall which will provide free vegetarian food to visitors and devotees every week. It will also be open to members of all religious communities to encourage the religious diversity of South Africa as a rainbow nation, Sethi added. -PTI

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Indian, Aussie authors pen book NEW DELHI: A group of authors from India and Australia have attempted to connect the two

countries through an anthology of stories, which touch upon

shared concerns and overlapping issues.

The book of stories "Eat the Sky, Drink the Ocean" penned by 20 authors from the two countries was launched here recently in the presence of four authors Peal Dhar, K r i s t y M u r r a y, Isobelle Carmody a n d Samhita Arni.

"We are in this terrible post colonial mantle where if you want to be read in India, you have to come to London. And not only India, but if you

got to be read elsewhere also, you got to go to London," Australian author Murray said.

Murray met the Indian writer, editor and columnist, Anita Roy in 2012 where they decided to do a book for the readers of India and Australia.

"Exactly at the same time there were protests in Delhi and in Melbourne against the rape cases that shook the two countries. We thought these are the issues that join us and we must do something about it. So the fate of all young women gave rise to this anthology," Murray said.

The all women line-up of the anthology also tackles issues like food shortages, environmental pollution and decay that are of concern to both the developed as well as the developing countries.

Authors say they aim to inspire readers to imagine alternate realities like a genderless universe and presence of the supernatural through writing in genres like scifi and fantasy writing that are often male dominated.

Murray said a mutual admiration of each other's work and culture led the contributors to select pieces for anthology, which con-

tains six graphic stories, one playscript and ten short stories.

The writers and illustrators got in touch through Skype and emails, shared their views and ideas and together weaved the stories.

Kuriyan said, "Australian author Kate Constable, is a good writer and she has a descriptive style of writing in which she describes sounds, smell of a place, things like that.

So in a way it is challenging as

Payal Dhar, Kirsty Murray, Isobelle Carmody and Samhita Arni

"Usually what happens that the publisher is the linking wire between an author and an illustrator but for this one the authors and illustrators of the two countries got together for a story," said Priya Kuriyan, a children's book illustrator, comic book artist and animator.

well as inspiring because what more can an illustrator do beyond what is already described in the text. But we worked in coordination and at the end result everyone was happy with it. It was a really good experience."

Feminist themes run through the book. -PTI

Desi News Venkatesan Ashok takes over as CG in San Francisco India Post News Service

SAN FRANCISCO: Ambassador Venkatesan Ashok has taken charge as Consul General of India, San Francisco. According to a press release by the Consulate General of India, San Francisco, Ambassador Venkatesan Ashok was born on 8 October 1958 in Orissa, India. He graduated in Civil Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi and joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1982.

COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA

16 India Post

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DanceDilSe celebrates success of 'Colors'

December 5, 2014

Details on page 24

Obama visiting India triggers new hope for broadening ties VYAS SUDHIR, SURENDRA ULLAL & RAMESH SOPARAWALA

Cont’d on page 24

FIA (New) elects team for 2014-15 SURENDRA ULLAL

CHICAGO: The Federation of Indian Association's (FIA) Chicago, a leading Indian American umbrella organization of Illinois, elected its 2015/2016 executive board at its Annual Meeting at Waterford Banquets on November 29.

In the presence of several community leaders and members of different associations, Sunil Shah, the founding president, announced the following line up of officers approved unanimously.

Onkar Sangha, President; Mukesh Shah and Dhitu Bhagwakar, Executive Vice Presidents; Shital Daftari, Ravi Kapoor, Moon Khan, Neil Khot, Payal Shah, Vice Presidents; Shahid Rizvi, Secretary; Mona Bhalla, Joint Secretary; Surinder Singh Palia, Treasurer; Hitesh Gandhi, Joint Treasurer; and Manjit Singh Bhalla, Ninad Daftari, Ali Khan and Shalini Saxena; Directors.

Cont’d on page 23

Akshaya Patra benefit event in Milpitas India Post News Service

STONEHAM, MA: Akshaya Patra USA has announced holding its annual 2014 Food for Education Benefit Event on Saturday, December 6 in Milpitas with Barbara Kinney, an award-winning photojournalist, as Keynote speaker. The Benefit Event will be held at the India Community Center in Milpitas, CA. Details on page 25

NEW YORK/CHICAGO: The announcement that US President Barack Obama has agreed to visit India timing it with the celebrations of Indian Republic Day has triggered huge enthusiasm and hope among Indian Americans across the country with many convinced that this would give a new and positive twist to Indo-US relations.

Coming this close on the heels of India PM Narendra Modi's triumphant visit to their country followed by his equally successful talks and visits to Japan, Australia and other parts of the world, it underlines a renewed desire on the part of the US administration to cultivate India as a centerpiece of its relationship with world powers.

The US is locked up in its fight against ISIS and global terrorism which has also started touching its shore and the administration seems all the more keen to cultivate support from all quarters. India has been a victim of cross border terrorism too and it felt that an active Indian support to fight this global menace would lend it much needed edge.

The other important area which would get a new look is the boosting of bilateral trade and economic cooperation. The US administration has started recognizing India as an important market now that developed markets of Europe and Japan have started faltering. The Chinese economy has also slowed in its growth while there is a thaw in trade with Russia, another super power.

The United States is keen to expand trade with India, a US official said last Monday, after the two countries settled a bitter row over food subsidies and President Barack Obama announced he would visit in January.

The US Trade Representative Michael Froman recently was in New Delhi at the first meeting in four years of a key trade panel on which representatives from the world's largest economy and the emerging market giant sit." We believe in the promise of India," Froman told a business audience, "Let's deliver on that promise."

Two-way trade between the US and India currently stands at $100 billion and the countries aim to boost the figure to $500 billion but

Froman said.

"Some suggest the Indian and US breakthrough (unlocking the global deal) may have saved the

PM Modi with Barack Obama

have set no deadline.

The nations reached a breakthrough earlier this month in a food subsidies spat that threatened to derail a landmark World Trade Organization pact to ease global trade barriers.

By easing the cost of doing business, the Trade Facilitation

multinational trading system," Froman said. In any event, the compromise "could not have been possible without the personal engagement" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Obama, he added.

The two men are said to have struck up a good rapport during

The US Trade Representative Michael Froman recently was in New Delhi at the first meeting in four years of a key trade panel on which representatives from the world's largest economy and the emerging market giant sit." We believe in the promise of India," Froman told a business audience, "Let's deliver on that promise."

Agreement - set to be approved by the WTO's General Council soon - will be "win-win" for developed and developing nations,

Modi's hugely successful US visit last month." They gave our partnership a mantra... 'Further together we go'," Froman said.

Analysts say the US-India relationship is now moving ahead on all fronts from economic, political to military. The breakthrough over the WTO deal cleared the path for Obama's acceptance of PM Modi's invitation to be "the Chief Guest" at India's Republic Day parade - a display of military might and ethnic diversity. Obama will be the first sitting US President to visit India twice.

Some of the issues that need to be sorted out, say analysts, concern the Indian workers paying social security in the US, market access to agricultural products and the thorny topic of patents. It is made amply clear that a headway in areas such as Indian intellectual property rights involving drug patents and entertainment copyright law was crucial to strengthening commercial ties.

US-based pharmaceutical companies often complain about India's tough patent laws that do not allow tweaking of inventions to win new patent protection and instead demand "genuine innovation".

Last month, medical charity Medecins Sans Frontieres accused the US of ratcheting up pressure on India to relax patent conditions that have made the country the "world's pharmacy" with its lifesaving generic drugs.

But Siddharth Birla, president of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FICCI), indicated India was not about to relax its patent laws. The patent protection reflected India's "development priorities" aimed at "providing accessibility and affordability of medicines", he observed.

Chicago bureau adds: The consensus among those surveyed clearly indicates that President Barack Obama visiting India close on the heels of triumphant PM Modi visit to US is a great diplomatic coup on the part of PM Modi and will be a forerunner of many a positive and good things to follow.

Cont’d on page 18

December 5, 2014

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Buddha's enlightenment through joyful dance ELIZABETH VISUVALINGAM

CHICAGO: Chicago's Kalapriya Dance, under the direction of founder and artistic director Pranita Jain, recently presented its world premiere of "Mirror of Enlightenment" at downtown Harris Theater.

The dance-drama adapted classical

thillana in Rag Paras.

The percussive footwork, stylized postures, gestures and costumes, the classical vocabulary of Bharata Natyam, were simplified for the contemporary audience and two of the dancers were actually non-Desis.

to the merging of many traditions, a melting pot of possibilities. Special guest musician Soumik Datta, known as a virtuoso on the sarod, joined the 25-member FP ensemble for this premiere.

Tabla master Kalyan Pathak joined Stephen

Miyanki Blues," where Rag Todi was elaborated with jazz and blues sonorities. The Indian and Western artistes thus explored convergences between the two traditions to facilitate the birth of a new aesthetic.

Since its formation by trumpet virtuoso

The "Mirror of Enlightenment" at Chicago's Harris Theatre. From left, Satyajit Deshmukh (tabla), Ganapathi Ranganathan (mridangam), dancers Ameera Nimjee, Preeti Veerlapati, Rouchana Lagoudina, Ashley Fargnoli (Buddha), Kinnari Vora, Anu Bhatt, Komal Shah, Padma Ravi, Amrita Mukhopadhyay, Saraswathi Ranganathan (veena) and Hitesh Master (harmonium). Pic Elliot Mandel

Bharata Natyam to depict the attempt by Passion, Aggression and Ignorance, the three daughters of Mara (Death), to distract the would-be Buddha rapt in meditation beneath the Bodhi tree.

Prince Siddhartha's sorrows and Mara's violence were choreographed by Komal Shah in sharp contrast to the meditative introversion of the Buddha.

The refined dance movements, tuned to music, were immediately narrative.

Saraswathi Ranganathan's music arrangement and veena improvisation flowed seamlessly from one scene to the next to depict the shifting moods in a colorful sweep. While other hearts are blossoming to youthful spring heralded by raga Vasanta, Siddhartha divests his body of its encumbering royal attributes.

The inner consolidation of his spiritual insight amidst the tugs of temptation, each onslaught from without sublimated into a yet higher awakening within, is reaffirmed by the sublime 'Vedic' raga Revati. While it is unlikely that his earliest disciples and the orthodox today would approve, the worldrenouncer joins in the ecstatic climax where the entire troupe dances to the exuberant

"Ashley Fargoli brought an intense quietude to her role as the Buddha to neutralize Akanksha Dhar as the God of Death.

Anupama Bhatt as the Passionate daughter wowed the audience. The weaving in of northern Kathak and martial Kalaripayattu infused the performance with kinetic energy," Ranganathan told India Post.

Fulcrum Point New Music Project (FP), Chicago's leader in New Art Music led by Stephen Burns, hosted this one-night-only concert, which was also the stage for the U.S. Premiere of Raga Fields, Concerto for Sarod and Ensemble, by prominent Indian composer Param Vir, an international leader in contemporary music, featuring sarod virtuoso Soumik Datta.

An original FP commission, Raga Fields interlocked contemporary music with classical Indian tradition, forging a vibrant sound to project the power and energy of two different musical traditions. Modal, tonal and atonal harmonic fields merged with fleeting raga-like allusions, all of them encased in rich western contemporary counterpoint and orchestration. The work was intended to mirror the contemporary world where monolithic cultures have given way

Burns on trumpet and Datta on sarod to improvise on rag Rageshri. He accompanied FP flutist Mary Stolper in rendering a composition in Rag Lalit by Shirish Korde. Pathak's Jazz Mata group then teamed up with three FP musicians to improvise "Mingus in

and conductor Burns in 1998 under the auspices of Performing Arts Chicago, FP seeks to encourage audiences to make cross-cultural connections between new music, art, technology and literature, gaining greater insight into today's diverse world.

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Obama visiting India triggers new hope for broadening ties Cont’d from page 16

DR.BHARAT BARAI, a front ranking oncologist in Indiana and the chief coordinator of NY based Indian American Community Foundation, said that the President Barack Obama agreeing to visit India close on the heels of a recent US visit by Indian PM Narendra Modi augurs well for Indo US ties and it is surely going to have multiple positive impact on bilateral relations.

Dr Bharat Barai

Dr Barai feels that the focus will be more on forging closer links on fighting terrorism as also strengthening militarily ties and cooperation since that falls within the purview of the US Government. India right now does not need economic aid and so far investment is concerned it is in private hands - private corporations. The visit will create lot of political goodwill which should have a favorable impact on investment climate.

This in its turn can generate a

larger flow of ingestible funds to India from the private sector.

Yet another topic that could be touched upon may relate to the immigration and visa problems. It is likely that the US would relent and agree for a bigger quota for H 1 or student visa. This will be beneficial to India in the long run as the US educated skilled hands and the work force will give a boost to India economically and prestige-wide globally.

MAFAT PATEL, managing forty plus chain of grocery stores across the USA is often described as "uncrowned King of Indian Town on Devon" in Chicago. He said that

Mafat Patel

this is a big historical event as no sitting US President has visited India twice during his reign.

Barack Obama with his second visit in January 2015 will create history. "I believe that both the parties - India and USA - will talk on all issues that affect them mutually as well as globally. Terrorism is a global issue while economic cooperation would be easily handled bilaterally. Politics of course is there, and efforts will be made to narrow down differences," Mafat Patel observed IFTKHAR SHAREEF, the FIA Trustee Board Chair, said the coming Republic Day event in Delhi will be good opportunity for our PM Narendra Modi to discuss on cross-border terrorism with President Obama who will be the Chief

Iftkhar Shareef

Guest at the event on January26.

There is need to understand the urgency to address cross-border terrorism which is hampering economic growth of India. Enough pressure should be mounted on Pakistan not to meddle in the Kashmir issue or overall general Indian-Muslim issues in India.

Muslims in India are well educated about the issues they face, and are

able to handle them in a democratic way as they live in a country where democracy prevails and laws are equal for all Indians. PM Narendra Modi should also address the threat with Barack Obama during his visit and talk about daily threats to our nation from neighboring countries including Pakistan, China and others.

Iftekhar Shareef also felt that the economy of India will have a big positive change in next few years as India is enjoying the largest population of young talented work force who are dedicated to making our country proud. "We will see in next few years more companies from around the world would like to invest in India. Our PM is making the world know to come and invest in India," he added.

According to Iftekhar Shareef, the political situation in India will be more stable than before, as after two decades there is a single party majority which means BJP could work on their own agenda.

Still it is a good sign that the ruling BJP Government is taking every party in confidence and is in consultation with them. The present government of NDA must focus on law and order and this would be a key factor for the economic development of the country.

Sohan Joshi

SOHAN JOSHI, president of National Federation of Indian Associations, said that the best possible outcome of the proposed visit of US President Barack Obama would be that it could strike a good personal rapport between these two great world leaders. PM Narendra Modi was maligned by interested groups and was denied visa to USA for about ten years. It was during President Obama's regime that the administration relented and not only got him visa but also set up one to one meet with the President.

There was an honest effort to reassess the personality of PM Modi and President Obama readily agreed to be in India during Republic Day celebrations when a formal invitation was extended.

Cont’d on page 20

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Nagaland Governor brings tribal dancers to Midwest ELIZABETH VISUVALINGAM

Nagaland Dancers troupe

CHICAGO: Padmanabha Balakrishna Acharya, a recent appointee as Governor of Nagaland and Tripura, was in Chicago along with a troupe of tribal dancers from his State to create awareness about talents of Nagaland artists in USA and among Mid-

nity leaders, who are working to encourage diversity and tolerance. They included Steve Spreitzer from the Michigan Round Table, Michigan-based filmmaker Audery Geyer, Rev. Bryan Smith of Geneva Presbyterian Church, Anne Marie Hudak, South In-

Governor P.B. Acharya (standing center) with members of the Nagaland Folkloric Group in Canton, Michigan. Kneeling front left are local South Indian classical dancers who also performed

westerners. dian classical dance teacher Sailaja Pullela and Acharya was in Chicago and a local or- Naga dance group leader Theja Meru. Smith ganization Friends of India hosted a meet and Hudak are activists in the Plymouth Canon Devon Avenue. Shridhar Damle was the ton interfaith community outreach. coordinator along with Sohan Joshi, presiAmong the Indian community leaders dent of National Federation of Indian As- present were Padma Kuppa, Dr Yash Lakra, sociations.

Roopal Shah, Arjun Surya and youth leadAcharya, who is also Chairman of the ers Shantanu Deshmukh and Aneesha.

North East Zone Cultural Center (NEZCC), Geyer's documentary "Our Fires Still Burn: lectured as the Chief Guest at Midwest workshops organized

by International Center for Cultural Studies USA (ICCS) to highlight Native American life and facilitate interaction between indigenous peoples. The 13-member Nagaland Folkloric Group, drawn from different tribes, performed in Bloomington, Illinois, and in Canton, in Michigan.

NEZCC is one of seven regional centers established by Chicago coordinator for Friends of India, Shridhar Damle, Government of India to promote holds up a booklet published by Academy for Indian Tribal India's traditional arts under the Dialects. P.B. Acharya (R) talks about India's chairmanship of the Governor northeastern territories of the host state. ICCS mission is "to facilitate the revitalization of diverse The Native American Experience," which ancient traditions and cultures of the world reflects on the historical trauma of the naby fostering a forum for learning, under- tives and presents their powerful and inspistanding, and networking." rational stories, was screened. In addition Around 150 people attended the free to the Naga cultural program, three local gathering organized by ICCS Michigan Indian-American teens performed a South chapter at Geneva Presbyterian Church in Indian classical dance.

Canton, Michigan to honor local commuAcharya spoke in Hindi and English on

Governor P.B. Acharya (seated center) flanked by members of the Nagaland Folkloric Group in Bloomington -Standing in front are members of the Nagaland Diaspora in the Midwest

India's richly pluralistic traditions. He hails from Udupi district of Karnataka state, but has good command over Tulu, Kannada, besides Hindi and English.

The Governor distributed booklets he has authored or prefaced. Several tribal freedom fighters fought British rule but are unknown to mainland Indians. They include Rani Ma Gaidinlu of Nagaland, Dr. Daying Ering and Narottam of Arunachal Pradesh, Babu Jeebon Roy and U Tirot Singh of Meghalaya, and Joy Bhadra Hagjer of Assam. Others are on tribal festivals, proverbs, folk-tales and poems.

The Governor recounted his early involvement with the erstwhile North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA). There are now eight tribal states of Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya,

Assam, Sikkim and Tripura. They have borders that are 90 percent international and unfriendly, with many insurgent groups trained in Bangladesh and Myanmar. The Modi government is bent on peace with these insurgent groups and India's neighbors. Fresh water, soil, and minerals are abundant in NEFA, but there is no electricity despite abundance of hill-rivers. The prolonged insurgency has succeeded in uniting the independent tribes but these citizens are now tired of civil unrest and keen on development, he said.

Acharya said he preferred to focus on constructive initiatives. The Naga Diaspora is now spread all over the world with 20,000 in the U.S. alone. The Governor concluded by inviting all to visit Nagaland during the Hornbill festival in December.

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Bal Vihar celebrates Diwali with fervor RAJ IYER

ST LOUIS: Bal Vihar of St. Louis with a tradition of 22 years celebrated the Festival of Light Diwali - with lot of enthusiasm and pomp last month. If there is one event that the students and parents always look forward to, it is Diwali.

This year Bal Vihar has grown in strength and with 750 expected attendees, it was no small feat to organize the event. Like previous years, Bal Vihar students did a Fireworks in progress

Students pray during Diwali celebration

Diya project ahead of Diwali that raised funds for charitable institutes in US and India. Students prepared clay Diyas (lamp holders) during this project.

The culmination was the grand celebration at Mahatma Gandhi Center (MGC) with record 700 attendees. After capturing the mo-

ment and spirit of the students and staff alike in pictures, the day began with the students and teachers heading to The Hindu Temple of St. Louis. The priests led the prayers and students participated with great devotion. While the prayers were in full swing, a group of about 50 volunteers were busy

packing boxed dinner for all present. Another group of volunteers were preparing for the firecrackers distribution.

After the pooja, students came back for dinner. Then followed the most exciting part of the evening the fireworks.

Cont’d on page 21

Obama visiting India triggers new hope for broadening ties Cont’d from page 18

This speaks a lot about conscious efforts on both sides to bury the past and move forward in a spirit of give and take.

"I think there would be immense possibilities of cooperation between the two countries after the visit. Let us hope for the best as it would augur good for the world as well," Joshi observed.

AJIT GANDHI, a front ranking financial advisor and acute India scene observer said that in his opinion, fighting global terrorism and forging economic cooperation will be the areas getting more attention soon and also a big boost in the course of time. Between these two areas, the economics will steal the limelight, of course.

Although terrorism is an important

Ajit Gandhi

issue everywhere, money/commerce/economics do take priorities. It is no secret that NaMo himself is very interested in boosting

economic development. So, it makes sense that these two areas will outshine politics.

NAREN PATEL, CEO MedStar Laboratories and a former head of

President Obama's visit to India will get the two countries closer as never before in all areas of activities. "I personally feel that it would be the economy that will benefit most. India is keen fighting terrorism and PM Modi will give his piece of mind to President Obama about cross border terrorism. Cooperation in Defense may be there but I am not sure. Politically both the countries will come together and President will have a first hand chance to assess PM Modi. Hopefully his past impres-

strong ties which is steadily expanding. The visit would bolster the relationship between two

Sunil Shah Naren Patel

the Association of India Origin, mentioned that to him the most important thing would be to get the American leaders interested in India all around.

"Our focus should be what the American side could do to help India progress all around. Come to India in a big way and chalk out the program for common good.

Raking up good connection would be beneficial in the long run. As against no connection or poor connection with the highest in the administration party of America, closer link will always be good for the country," he observed While discussing economics or political topics , it would be better to stay away from controversies, he added.

HARENDRA MANGROLA, a former head of Indo- American Democratic Organization, said that

Harendra Mangrola

sion of this great India leader will get erased," Mangrola said.

SUNIL SHAH, founder President FIA-Suburb, said that Modi wave swept entire India and even USA when he was here last September. We are set to witness the same euphoria when US President Obama goes to India to grace the Republic Day Event as the Chief Guest. He would be the first US President to do so. A true feather in the cap for the Republic Day event in India.

This would begin a new era of

greatest democracies in the world not only economically and politically but also achieving the common goal of fighting terrorism.

The two countries are developing a strategic partnership prompted by shared concerns about China's increasingly assertive territorial claims in the Asia Pacific region and its growing power and influence in Asia.

PM Modi's move is truly remarkable and laudable in extending this invitation. The four years of UPA led government saw a setback in ties with the US. There were deliberate efforts to scuttle efforts to move forward on issues which were clearly in India's interest.

We have a Prime Minister and government that is not trapped in ideological moorings of the past.

The Modi government is reshaping Indian foreign policy in the same fundamental ways. We see

that India now under his able leadership is confidently engaging with all major powers like China, Japan, UK, Australia to secure the best possible outcome for itself.

We see the past is giving way to new refreshing openness which is embedded in the pragmatic instincts and approach of PM Modi.

It's remarkable that in just eight months in office PM Modi would have hosted the US President, the Russian President and the Chinese Premier. Would not India be the Super Power in the world if we get eight years of his leadership?

RISHIKANT SINGH, Manager Air India NY, said that the focus will be economy, as India needs all round development, not merely a few States high on progress chart. Economy is what should be of top interest to both the countries. Containing or fighting terrorism can only be done with unified global efforts. It is important but would not be the focus right now, he observed

Rishikant Singh

December 5, 2014

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Young artists shine in Soorya Youth Series GURU PRASANNA KASTHURI

ST LOUIS: When Master of Ceremonies, Shubha Subbarao asked Elizabeth Nellamattathil, a college student from Chicago, to say a few words for a much younger crowd, during the Soorya Youth Series, she said," if you love something, you will make

Youth performs at Soorya Youth Series event in St Louis

Bal Vihar celebrates Diwali with fervor Cont’d from page 20

Soon, the place was lit with sparkles and joy was in the air. The volunteer team did a phenomenal job of making sure safety was the first priority.

Center for Indian Cultural Education - Bal Vihar of St. Louis is a non-profit organization. Since its inception in 1992 it has been serving the Metro St. Louis Indian community. Over last 20+ years Bal Vihar has helped groom a breed of multi-cultural global leaders of next generation that have been shaped by the best of the cultures from east and west.

time for it. I love my dance; I find time despite my hectic study schedule". Her words really tied well into the expressive performance that she gave.

Feeling this need, Soorya Performing Arts came up with the "Soorya Performing Series for Young Talent". It has invited many young artists in the past. Its recent Fall-2014 series, held here on November 15, included three highly talented artists from Chicago. A solo Veena concert by Ms. Divya Pariti, a disciple of Rajaveena School of music, Chicago; a Mohiniyattam performance by Ms. Elizabeth Nellamattathil (a

disciple of Aanada Dance Theater); Ms. Vidya Govind (a disciple of Natya Dance Theater).

Young Divya Pariti, disciple of Guru Rajeswari Pariti, played Veena with a confidence and the music was very vibrant and colorful. She presented "Mayaatheetha swaroopini" in raga Mayamalavagowla, followed by "Subramanyena" in raga Shuddha Dhanyasi. Her brilliant strokes of Gauda Malhar were very melodious. Her creative performance was highlighted in the elaboration of Kalyani through alapanam, thana and later swara vistara. Divya showed her

prowess in the instrument in this solo performance. St. Louis Native Ramakrishna Neti accompanied the recital on the mrudangam.

Elizabeth started her Mohiniyattam performance with a composition of the 18th century Tamil poet Oothukkadu Venkata Subba Iyer's Pranavakaaram Siddhivinayakam, which was followed by an expressive Jagadhodhaarana, in which she portrayed the mischievous nature of young Krishna very effectively.

Cont’d on page 23

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Ram Janaki Vivah at Grayslake temple GEETHA PATEL

Shree Ram Barat

CHICAGO: Shree Ram-Ma Janaki Vivah Utsav last week turned out to be one of the most vibrant events of the Hindu Mandir, Grayslake. It was celebrated with lot of spiritual fervor with more than 150 female devotees enjoying Ma Janaki Mehndi

Traditionally dressed ladies reached Temple Dwar with its royal procession. Warm welcome of Barat and Dwar Pujan was done

by Savita and Prabhakar Joshi with all Vaidic rituals. Pt. Anil Joshi and Pt Ganesh greeted everybody and introduced relatives with

Agni Pradkshina

Rat - a charming tradition - by singing bhajans and tasty snacks The Ram Barat was led by Ashvani Singh and family on November 22 with drums and dolls.

Gotrachaar from both sides who in turn did Hasta Milap, Uttariya Exchange with big hugs.

Shiva Dhanush which was placed in front of Lord Ram and

Gauri Pujan by Sita Ma

Lakshman was broken by young children. Later, Pt. Ganesh led the Pujan of Goddess Gauri by Ma Janaki along with devotees. Lord Ram and Ma Janaki Vivah was performed by Pt. Joshi following all the Hindu Vivah rituals such as Var Pujan, offering of Madhuparakam, Kanyadaan, Godaan, Jayamala, Agni Pradakshana, Mangalsutra tying, Sindhoor offering.

Then came the heart-breaking emotional moment of Kanya-Bidai: the sending off of Janak Dulari to Ayodhya.

Devotees carried Ma Janaki in a beautifully decorated Doli with their heavy hearts as Rita Patel sang Bidai song. Pt Joshi delivered his Pravachan on this ideal sacred marriage. He said that the breaking of Shiva Dhanush by Shree Ram symbolizes the breaking one's ego before entering

Grihasthashram.

Without winning over ego Gyan cannot merge with Bhakti as Shri Ram symbolizes 'Gyan' and Ma Janaki signifies 'Bhakti'. Gyan is incomplete unless it merges with Bhakti. He also narrated a rare story of Lord Ram wearing a peacock feather crown as he was wearing

enjoy the Vivah Utsav of Sita and Rama. More than 300 devotees enjoyed Utsav in the midst of a little warmer day. Pt Joshi blessed all the devotees and sponsor families for supporting the temple events and upholding Hindu values.

Temple President Harsh Kumar

Sita Ma Bidai

it in his vivah Utsav this year.

Archana, offering of Bhoga and Aarti were performed by Pt. Joshi.

A sumptuous "Raja Janak Bhojan" was arranged for the devotees to

thanked devotees for their enthusiasm in the Shree Ram-Ma Janaki Vivah Utsav and volunteers for their valuable time in making this Utsav a grand success.

Mohina Ahluwalia & Ronny Kular honored RAJINDER MAGO

SCHILLER PARK: Mrs Mohina Ahluwalia of Chicago was awarded the Asian Humanitarian 2014, and the Kular family of Burr Ridge were honored as the Asian American Model Family by Asian Chronicle USA TV Channel Program. Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White was the Chief Guest.

Both of them also received The President's Call to Service certificate and lapel pin in addition to the plaques. The award ceremony on November 23 was one of the highlights of a dinner banquet held at Sheraton Four Points Hotel, in Schiller Park. More than 250 guests, mostly Asian Americans of Chicago, were present. The program included musical entertain-

Mohina Ahluwallia with Jesse White and Award

ment and an Asian ethnic dress fashion show. Vandna Ahluwalia and Sharon Naidu represented India in the fashion show.

The Asian Humanitarian Award and the Asian Model Family Award are given annually by the Asian Chronicle TV channel to individuals and families which are cohesive role models for others to emulate, extend numerous civic and community services here and/or in their native countries, and they impact the positive image of Asians in America.

Mrs Mohina Ahluwalia, a blend of, community leadership and business entrepreneurship, is the head of Sandtech Inc., Alfa Mfg. Industries Inc., and National Abra-

Kular Family who bagged Model Family Award

sives and Tool Corporation. She was the founding director and secretary of Indo-American Center in Chicago. She was also a member of, and resource contributor to Apna Ghar.

In 2010 Mohina was the Chairperson of the Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago, a very active community service organization promoting Asian culture in the Chicago area.

Ronny Singh Kular a telecommunication professional is actively involved in DePaul Alumni Association.

Cont’d on page 23

December 5, 2014

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FIA (New) elects team for 2014-15 SURENDRA ULLAL

CHICAGO: The Federation of Indian Association's (FIA) Chicago, a leading Indian American umbrella organization of Illinois, elected its 2015/2016 executive board at its Annual Meeting at Waterford Banquets on November 29.

In the presence of several community leaders and members of different associations, Sunil Shah, the founding president, announced the following line up of officers approved unanimously.

Onkar Sangha, President; Mukesh Shah and Dhitu Bhagwakar, Executive Vice Presidents; Shital Daftari, Ravi Kapoor, Moon Khan, Neil Khot, Payal Shah, Vice Presidents; Shahid Rizvi, Secretary; Mona Bhalla, Joint Secretary; Surinder Singh Palia, Treasurer; Hitesh Gandhi, Joint Treasurer; and Manjit Singh Bhalla, Ninad Daftari, Ali Khan and Shalini Saxena; Directors.

While welcoming the new board members, Sunil Shah briefly outlined the hurdles and obstacles faced by this association from its inception, but observed that the tenacity of the executive

Sitting front row (from left to right): Vice President Shital Daftari, Vice President Payal Shah, Founding President Sunil Shah, President Onkar Singh Sangha, and Joint Secretary Mona Bhalla. Standing (from left to right): Vice President Moon Khan, Vice President Ravi Kapoor, Executive Vice President Mukesh Shah, Joint Treasurer Hitesh Gandhi' and Director Manjit Singh Bhalla. Mising in action are :Vice President Dhitu Bhagwakar; Vice President Neil Khot; Secretary Shahid Rizvi; Treasurer Surinder Singh Palia; Directors Ninad Daftari, Ali Khan, Shalini Saxena; and Past President Rita Singh

team and supporters helped the organization to sail thru rough weather. The association now has reached greater new heights and received enormous appreciation from community members and government officials at all levels,

he said.

He recognized the talents and abilities of new board members like Moon Khan, Payal Shah, Hitesh Gandhi, Mona Bhalla and Manjit Bhalla who are affiliated with different leading organiza-

Mohina Ahluwalia & Ronny Kular honored

A section of the audience

Cont’d from page 22

He is Vice President of Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago (PCS) serving it since inception. Kular has been actively involved with Asian American Coalition of Chicago for the last 20 years and has played the leading role in "Dharam di Chader", an Indian play with world famous Punjabi stage artist

Harpal Tiwana Kular is happily married to Rajnish Kular, MD, currently in practice and active in various Medical Associations. They are blessed with two kids, 12 year old son Kermen Kular and 7 years old daughter, Avneet Kular. Despite their busy schedules, the Kulars devote their time to their kids to inculcate good moral and ethical

values.

Asian Chronicle USA is a television program on public access cable broadcast in 90 suburban communities of Chicagoland area.

The program, started in 1997, is a labor of love and service to the Asian American community-atlarge by professionally trained crew extending their services probono.

tions of Chicago.

FIA has scheduled a colorful program to commemorate India's 66th Republic Day Celebration at Meadows Club on January 24, 2015 (Saturday). There will be Beauty Pageant Contest and dazzling cultural events. This event would be followed by a workshop by the Indian consulate general's office on immigration and passport issues. Blood donation drive, clothes and food collection for the homeless and other charitable programs are also planned.

President Onkar Sangha stressed on the need of team work and said that together we can make this association stronger and vibrant. Delicious pizza was served for lunch and sweets were distributed to celebrate the recent ring ceremony of Swapnil Shah, son of Sunil Shah.

Young artists shine in Soorya Youth Series Cont’d from page 21

Javali - Nee maataley, was pretty impressive. She portrayed a dejected, disappointed personality of an enraged woman very efficiently. Her Tillana brought out some of the salient features of her Guru Hema's style of Nritta and it was very pleasing.

In the other part of the show, students of Soorya Performing Arts presented some wonderful pieces. Samanvita Kasthuri pre-

Her best performance showed up in the Kaminimani, in which Sakhi finds out where heroine has been, by continuous questions. The heroine finds excuses for her disappearance (which happens to be a love plight after meeting her beloved Lord), but her lips let out the truth in the end. As a youngster, Elizabeth showed great maturity in presenting this piece. Her presentation of the Bible based Magdalana Her best performance Marikyam was good in- showed up in the troduction of Biblical stoKaminimani, in which ries into a Hindu Mohiniyattam. Choreog- Sakhi finds out where raphy of Guru Janaki was heroine has been, by conlaudable as well as the tinuous questions. quality of the music.

Vidya Govind, disciple of Guru Hema Rajagopalan, sented beautiful footwork in her began her recital with a crisp pre- presentation of solo Kathak piece. sentation of Mallari, followed by Music students of Soorya Music a second half of Varnam - Suma School were very melodious and Sayaka. Her Nritta was very clean performed classical music pieces and Abhinaya was rendered well with great ease. through sanchari Bhavas (moving The youth series by Soorya story lines) based on stories of performing arts was supported by Gajendra Moksha and Kaliya parents of Soorya Dance, Music mardana. She presented Narsi and Yoga School; by funds reMehta's Gujarati poem depicting ceived from Missouri Arts Counthe negative nature of Lord Rama cil (MAC), a state agency of State in doubting the purity of his wife of Missouri; Regional Arts ComSeetha and putting her through the mission (RAC) - a city organizatest of fire (Agni Pariksha). tion of St. Louis and may other Vidya's portrayal of feminine patrons. The event was ably supanger was very visible in a subtle ported by many volunteers and way and went to great heights in was attended by more than 200 art this program. Her presentation of patrons.

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Venkatesan Ashok takes over as Consul General in San Francisco India Post News Service

SAN FRANCISCO: Ambassador Venkatesan Ashok has taken charge as Consul General of India, San Francisco. According to a press release by the Consulate General of India, San Francisco, Ambassador Venkatesan Ashok was born on 8 October 1958 in Orissa, India. He graduated in Civil Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi and joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1982.

Ambassador Ashok has held diplomatic assignments in Hong Kong, Malaysia, China, Austria and Sri Lanka, apart from postings in the Ministry of External Affairs in different capacities. He was

Shri Venkatesan Ashok

Director of External Relations in the took charge as Consul General of Department of Atomic Energy be- India in San Francisco w.e.f. 21 tween 1995-1998 following which November 2014. he was appointed as India's AlAmbassador Ashok is married ternate Governor and Alternate with one son. He speaks Chinese, Permanent Representative in the English and several Indian lanInternational Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna.

He was the Division Chief of He was the Division Central Europe in the Ministry Chief of Central Europe in the Ministry of Exter- of External Affairs prior to his nal Affairs prior to his assignment as Ambassador assignment as Ambassador of India to the of India to Zimbabwe Republic of Zimbabwe between March 2008June 2011. Ambassador Ashok guages. He has authored a book, served as Ambassador of India apart from several technical arto the Czech Republic from Au- ticles His interests include readgust 2011-September 2014. He ing and music.

DanceDilSe celebrates success of 'Colors'

DDS-Best Group - We rocked it on Sep 20th & Nov 14th India Post News Service

PALO ALTO, CA: DanceDilSe (DDS), A Bollywood dance musical company stage theater production came up with a Mega show on September 20, "Colors" at Spangenberg Theater, Palo Alto, CA.

DDS raised funds and gave to Asha for Education, a non profit organization dedicated to bringing hope for children through education.

DanceDilSe (DDS) a non profit organization was founded three years ago by Jyotsna Bendapudi, who is the Main Organizer & Creative Di-

Colors Theater Production Perfomances

rector for "Colors". In the past, DDS has contributed to Sankara Eye Foundation through their first theater production, "Manthan-EMotions". The

entire DDS team is very talented and passionate about dance, drama and most importantly helping society; which inspired us to host such big

Performances with celebrities

events to raise funds for non profit organizations to support their mission and objectives.

Cont’d on page 27

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Akshaya Patra benefit event in Milpitas India Post News Service

STONEHAM, MA: Akshaya Patra USA has announced holding its annual 2014 Food for Education Benefit Event on Saturday, December 6 in Milpitas with Barbara Kinney, an award-winning photojournalist, as Keynote speaker. The Benefit Event will

At the cost of just 13 cents per meal, Akshaya Patra delivers hot, nutritious, locally sourced midday meals to over 10,661 schools from 22 centralized and two decentralized kitchens in 10 states in India. Akshaya Patra has set an ambitious goal of serving 5 million children daily by 2020.

This year's event will feature

Trucks carrying food

Akshya Patra children eating their meals in India

be held at the India Community Center in Milpitas, CA. Infosys CEO Vishal Sikka is the guest of honor at the event and will speak about the special relationship between Akshaya Patra and Infosys. Actress Richa Shukla is the Master of Ceremony for the Event.

Akshaya Patra is the largest NGO-run school meal programs in the world serving over 1.4 million children daily. Just $15 feeds 1 child for an entire school year!

an evening of networking, programmatic updates, and dinner.

Business, non-profit, government, and philanthropic leaders from around the region are ex-

pected to attend and support the organization's dual mission of addressing childhood hunger and malnutrition and to promote education for underserved children in India.

The event will start with a Reception at 5:30 pm, followed by Program and Dinner.

Akshaya Patra is the largest NGO-run school meal programs in the world serving over 1.4 million children daily. Just $15 feeds 1 child for an entire school year!

A school that serves food

Maryland Schools declare Diwali Holiday in 2015 VYAS SUDHIR

MARYLAND: Maryland's Prince bigots," he said George's County Public Schools Rajan Zed, President of Univer(PGCPS) has decided to include one sal Society of Hinduism, said that of the most popular Hindu festivals, awareness about other religions Diwali, as school holiday in 2015-16 created by such holidays would school year calendar. Diwali falls on make the PGCPS pupils well-nurNovember 11 in 2015. tured, well-balanced, and enlightPGCPS headquartered in Upper ened citizens of tomorrow. It Marlboro, one of the nation's 25 would make PGCPS look good also largest school districts having 207 besides bringing cohesion and schools and over 124,000 stu- unity in the community, he added. dents, claims to be "nationally recZed also observed families ognized for its innovative pro- would like to celebrate Diwali day grams and initiatives" and serves together at home with children a diverse student population. Dr and, we would not want our chilSegun C. Eubanks and Carolyn M. Boston are Chair and Vice-Chair of ‘Families would like to celits Board of Education, ebrate Diwali day together while Dr Kevin M. Maxwell is the Chief Execu- at home with children and, tive Officer. we would not want our chilWelcoming the news, Sohan Joshi dren to suffer any disadvanpresident of the Na- tage at the school’ tional Federation of Indian Associations, mentioned that it was a step in right dren to suffer any disadvantage direction as it will help create at the school because of resulting awareness about Indian religions absences on this day. Closing among children in the County. schools on Diwali would ensure Diwali is celebrated heavily by that. members of Indian communities at Neela Pandya, a marketing conlarge that include Hindus, Sikhs sultant in New Jersey said that the and Jains among others. "I would Obama administration had celurge many more County schools ebrated Diwali at White House. in the country to follow this step Essentially, she said, the Festival as broadening the understanding of Light symbolizes the dispelling of other religions would help end- of darkness and the victory of ing religious strifes triggered by good over evil.

Community Across America

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December 5, 2014

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To fight or not to fight: A moral dilemma SWAMI NIKHILANAND

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battlefield at the brink of a colossal war - millions of warriors, weapons at the ready, aligned on each side; lines of foot soldiers, horses, elephants and chariots stretched for miles.

This scene is from the great battle of India, the war of Mahabharat which was fought in Kurukshetra over 5,000 years ago. As huge

Bhagvad Gita.

Arjun was clearly a victim of a dilemma that we often face in our lives, a moral paradox so to speak, that we are confronted with and often times, we get demoralized and disappointed with life. Arjun faced a similar dilemma as he stood on the precipice of the enormous war of Mahabharat. How-

Swami Nikhilanand

armies gathered on either side, thunder of drums and conches started shaking the air signaling the start of the battle.

At this crucial moment, Arjun requested Shree Krishna to guide his chariot to such a vantage point where he could see the armies of both sides. Both armies watched in amazement as Lord Krishna pulled his chariot at the middle of the battlefield.

What followed thereafter, gave humanity perhaps one of its greatest treasures of wisdom, a sublime blessing in the form of the

ever, in this state of moral confusion, Lord Krishna set out to enlighten him. The timeless wisdom of the Gita serves as a guiding light to this day, and is as relevant and contemporary as it was, 5000 years ago.

In modern times, Arjun's duty can be compared to that of a police officer. The duty of a police officer is to not only enforce laws in society but also to protect those who follow the law, and to prevent others from breaking the law. On one hand, Arjun was facing people who deserved his respect

and veneration such as Grandsire Bheeshma, Dronacharya, etc. yet on the other hand, his duty as a warrior was to fight the war of righteousness.

When Arjun's duty was so clear cut, then why did he become confused? The reason is as clear. It was due to his attachment -when he saw the people against whom he was going to fight, Arjun lost heart because many of them were part of his extended family or were his elders who had educated him as a boy.

Just like Arjun, we too are confronted with situations that compel us to choose between duty or attachment; often times we justify our delusions of bodily attachments by arguments and theories that present an 'easy way out'. But, before we try to grasp the secret of duty and attachment, I will answer two common questions that arise in people's minds when I give lectures about the Bhagvad Gita.

It is important to understand both of these concepts before we begin to understand the lessons of the Gita.

Q: Did both armies wait silently while Krishna and Arjun talked?

Swami Nikhilanand: When people hear this, some wonder if it was possible for Krishna to relate the entire Gita to Arjun at that time. Surely He must have told the gist to Arjun, and then quickly got on with the war; then later, when Ved Vyas produced the Gita in a written form, he must have expanded on the topics. In fact, there is nothing in either the Gita or the Mahabharat to support this theory. According to our scriptures, the Gita, as it is written, is a wordfor-word transcript of the conversation that took place on that day. Being a 'dharm yuddh', the war was to be fought according to a previously agreed upon set of rules.

Both sides would have been forced to wait for Krishna and Arjun to finish speaking and return to their side before beginning the battle.

The entire Gita is only 700 Sanskrit verses, meaning that it would have taken three or four hours for the entire conversation to take

place. Only when they were finished and Arjun returned to his side, ready to fight, did the war begin. So, what we have today is word-for-word what Krishna said to Arjun that day on the battlefield.

Q: How did Ved Vyas produce an authentic record of what Krishna told Arjun on that day?

Swami Nikhilanand: This

Krishna, it means that in one form, Shree Krishna told the Gita, and in another form - as Ved Vyas - He wrote the Gita. So there is no question of any mistake being made in the recording of the conversation.

This means that the Gita we have today is the authentic account of the discussion between Krishna and Arjun that day on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, more than

Ved Vyas is already an avatar of Shree Krishna. Shree Krishna has many forms, and one of those forms is Ved Vyas. He descends in this form at the end of every dwaparyug to rewrite all of the Hindu scriptures. At that time, He also produces the Gita in a written form. question is fairly common - How did Ved Vyas know what was said that day? Was Arjun taking notes?

Sanjay, with his Divine sight and hearing, also witnessed the telling of the Gita and related it to Dhritrashtra. Did either of them take notes? Or did Shree Krishna later explain to Ved Vyas what was said that day? The answer is that none of the above was required, because Ved Vyas is already an avatar of Shree Krishna. Shree Krishna has many forms, and one

of those forms is Ved Vyas. He descends in this form at the end of every dwaparyug to rewrite all of the Hindu scriptures. At that time, He also produces the Gita in a written form.

Since Ved Vyas is a form of

5,000 years ago.

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

Attracted to the teachings of Hinduism from a young age, Swami Nikhilanand eventually let his deep spiritual longing lead him to India, where he was most fortunate to come under the guidance of Shree Kripaluji Maharaj. Thereafter, living in the ashrams of JKP, he extensively studied Hindi, the philosophy of the prime Sanskrit scriptures (Vedas, Darshan Shastras, Gita, Bhagwatam), and practiced meditation in the tradition of raganuga bhakti.

In 2003, he was given sanyas.

Now, with the blessings of his Guruji, he offers satsang programs throughout America, engaging audiences with his clear explanations of Hindu philosophy coupled with inspired chanting of Sanskrit mantras and shlokas and charming nam sankirtan. His informative and compelling speeches provide practical insight into how to adopt the teachings of Sanatan Dharm into our daily lives, and inspire us to awaken our inner spiritual potential.

December 5, 2014

Community Across America

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Udaan fundraiser to rescue Sonagachi girls India Post News Service

FREMONT, CA: It's often said that children are our future. But then why are some born with a silver spoon while some others get abandoned and neglected by their very own parents? Then there are some who don't even know the name of their fathers.

It is these neglected ones born in a red light area that are forced into prostitution for no fault of theirs generations after generations.

According to a 2010 UNICEF report, an

DanceDilSe celebrates success of 'Colors' Cont’d from page 24

DDS Colors is a Movie on Stage with scintillating dances, funny drama and dazzling sets. It depicted three stories of life love that never happened, love that clicked immediately and love that stands true during the toughest of times. The musical was full of drama, Bollywood, hiphop, contemporary, fusion, classical, semi classical and Folk with participation from experienced artists.

On November 14, the DDS celebrated the show success with video screening of "Colors" at Vara restaurant in Sunnyvale to recognize the people making "Colors" successful and distribute certificates. Ash Kalra (San Jose City Council), Papiha Nandy (Founder of TV Channel & EklaCholoRe) were the guests of honor. In their speeches, Ash, Papiha, JoyaKaziDancer/Actor, SekarSrinivasan - Asha Chapter Coordinator, Supporters showed appreciation for the efforts led by DDS for raising money for Asha for Education.

The Team has been privileged to dance at many big shows & with Bollywood stars in Bay Area by invitation such as SLAM Flashmob Dance Performance Promotion for Shah Rukh Khan - Deepika Padukone Event with Instant Karma, Mohit Chauhan & Mamta Sharma Live Concert, and with Preity Zinta, Dharmendra, Malaika Arora, Abhay Deol, Vikram Phadnis, Neha Sharma, Nisha Kothari, Dino, and Bipasha Basu.

estimated 1.2 million children in India are exploited for prostitution. Songachi in Kolkata is one of the largest red-light areas in Asia. There are several hundred multistory brothels in this area with an estimated 11,000 sex workers and 14,300 children. Children even as young as 10-12 years old are forced into prostitution.

This holiday season, Overseas Volunteers for a Better India (OVBI), a 501(c) (3) organization, has undertaken a unique initiative "Project Udaan" to provide positive intervention for the children of Sonagachi.

The vision for Project Udaan is to provide a safe and secure shelter for these children away from the red-light area and help them get back to mainstream society by providing proper health-care, education, skills development and most importantly compassionate care.

The team on the ground in Sonagachi has already made progress. A temporary school has been set-up and the children are being provided free breakfast, education and clothing. A medical clinic has also been set up to provide free healthcare. Recently Ajay

Pathak, an active volunteer for OVBI visited the project site in Sonagachi and shared heart-wrenching stories on the lives of these children. To get these children out of the bleak future that is in store for them, the team requires a strong network of caring individuals to support building a permanent safe haven.

Project Udaan invites you to a musical fundraiser on Saturday 13th December at Milpitas Jain Temple Auditorium. For more information visit http://tinyurl.com/ projectudaan.

TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Manwa Laage : Happy New Year 2 Lovely : Happy New Year 3 Meherbaani : The Shaukeens 4 Meherbaan: Bang Bang 28 India Post

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December 5, 2014

5 India Waale : Happy New Year 6 Kill Dill : Kill Dil 7 Jaise Mera Tu : Happy Ending 8 Sajde : Kill Dil

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acked work schedule and round the clock work commitments have taken a toll on 'Student of the year' actress Alia Bhatt. Alia Bhatt after months long schedule of 'Shandaar' she returned to Mumbai and on landing the actress straightway headed to her home and was confined to bed.

Due to extreme cold in the UK and Poland, Alia developed high fever.

As her condition deteriorated, Alia was prescribed multiple tests.

The reports concluded that the 'Highway' actress contracted appendicitis and was down with se-

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vere stomach ache.

Worried father Mahesh Bhatt informed, "Alia is feeling better. There is no cause for worry. All tests are clear. It was just fever and hyper acidity. Appendicitis has been ruled out."

A source close to the film revealed, "Alia was unwell for the past week, but she continued to shoot. Now that the schedule has ended, she can get some rest."

Alia has just wrapped up 'Shandaar' with Shahid Kapoor.

riyanka Chopra who is currently shooting for Sanjay Leela Bhansali's 'Bajirao Mastani' fainted in the middle of the shoot. She collapsed delivering a four-pagelong monologue. The doctor was called on the set and he attended to Priyanka on the set. The actress opened her eyes after water was sprinkled on her face. The shooting was put on hold for six hours and it resumed only after Priyanka got little better.

A source from the set said, "Everyone present was very scared. Her face was sprinkled with water and thankfully she opened her eyes quickly."

Priyanka is playing the role of Kashibai in the film. Added the source, "This particular scene, during which she fainted, took 10 retakes. Kabhi light barabar nahin thi, kabhi kisine sync sound disturb kar diya. Add to this the heavy lighting on the sets and the four-page long monologue.

The process was very physically draining."

Recently, Priyanka Chopra tweeted how tough is the character that she is playing in 'Bajirao Mastani'. "Didn't even realize how tired I was till I touched my bed.'Bajirao Mastani' is so intense that I'm depleted! Kashi is one of my hardest parts!" she posted on her Twitter page.

9 Tu Meri : Bang Bang 10 Tere Hoke Rahenge: Raja Natwarlal

Bollywood

December 5, 2014

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fter the success of 'Heropanti', Bollywood favorite Tiger Shroff is all set to work on a new film 'Heer and Ranjha' by Sabbir Khan.

Earlier, Shahid Kapoor of 'Haidar' fame was being considered for the role, but now Tiger Shroff has been definitely selected to play Ranjha. The female lead has not yet been finalized. Probably both Kriti Shanon and Jacqueline Fernandez have been approached for the role.

Talking about the film, Sabbir said, "Yes we have now got a confirmation from Sajid Nadiadwala's office and the film is indeed titled Heer And Ranjha." He added, "No female lead has been signed yet for the film." The film goes on floor in the January of next year.

In addition to this, Tiger Shroff is currently working on a superhero film by choreographer Remo D'Souza.

There is also a rumor that Shroff may be seen in the sequel of the film 'Student of the year' by Karan Johar.

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icha Chadda will perform a cabaret for which she has started her training and is learning the dance form. Joining her is her Ram Leela co-actor, Gulshan Devaiah who will play a crucial role in the film. The new joinee in the cast is India's former cricketer Sreesanth.

The fast bowler is all set to debut in Hindi film industry with Cabaret. He will play Richa's Malayalee mentor. He meets Richa at a crucial juncture in her life and turns it around.

he 'Student of the Year' actor Varun Dhawan will be next seen in Sriram Raghavan 'Badlapur' and for the first time, the young and dynamic actor will shed his chocolate boy look and don a dark eddy, very matured look. Another interesting update about the film is that Varun will enter into a steamy lip-locking scene with much senior actor Divya Dutta.

At first both the stars were reluctant to shoot the scene but finally they agreed. An insider reveals. "It's a full-blown smooch. Both, Varun and Divya were initially uncomfortable doing the scene.

They eventually got it right after four retakes."

The scene has been shot indoor and it is a crucial part of the plot. In the film, Divya plays Shobha, one of the three women in the protagonist's life.

India Post 29

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Realty Tidbits

Jackson Hole real estate market heating up again JACKSON, Wyo.: The already notoriously expensive real estate market in Jackson Hole is heating up again.

The number of real-estate transactions was up 18 percent in the third quarter compared to the same time last year. Total sales were about $160 million, up 11 percent.

Figures compiled by Jackson Hole Real Estate Associates and Christie's International Real Estate also show the average home sale price was $5.7 million.

The Jackson Hole News & Guide reports fewer sales of more affordable homes in Jackson Hole.

Sales of homes $500,000 and less fell from 33 in the third quarter of 2013 to just nine in the third quarter of 2014. -AP

„ Property sizes in Mumbai region falling MUMBAI: Sizes of homes across the Mumbai metropolitan region (MMR) are shrinking over the past two years as real estate players are developing small-sized properties keeping in mind the price factor.

The home size has decreased by as much as eight per cent since 2012 and the trend is likely to continue as the population grows and property prices increase, property portal Commonfloor said in its study. "...since 2012, it may be found that property sizes have constantly decreased, while prices have almost remained the same or marginally increased," it said.

The trend started as early as 2009 but became increasingly visible over the last two years.

"One of the main reasons for increasing number of small-sized properties is the affordability aspect. Prices in Mumbai have seen a meteoric rise over the last few years. Yet every individual aspires to own a home there. Keeping in mind the affordability aspect of buyers, realty players have started launching properties that are smaller in size."

Buyers don't mind compromising on the size of the properties if they fall within budget and are in the city limits, the survey said.

"Secondly, the MMR is witnessing a rapid increase in population over the last few decades.

Mumbai is currently the seventh most populous city in the world and in the league of Tokyo and Delhi. An increasing population raises concerns for available space. -PTI

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Unnati ropes in Priyanka Chopra as brand ambassador

NEW DELHI: Realty firm Unnati Fortune Group has roped in Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra as the brand ambassador of the company.

The Noida-based company is constructing two housing projects in the city at present.

In a statement, Unnati Fortune Group CMD Anil Mithas said the company has appointed "remarkably talented Priyanka Chopra as our brand ambassador".

The company would soon roll out marketing and proDecember 5, 2014 motional campaigns featuring Priyanka Chopra. -PTI

US realty market new investment destination for Indians MUMBAI: With the US market emerging as an attractive investment destination, there is a growing interest from Indians to buy properties there, property consultant Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) said.

According to a report published by the US National Association of Realtors, buyers from India purchased residential properties in the US estimated at USD 5.8 billion in value during the oneyear period ending March 2014.

This investment magnitude recorded a growth of around 6 per cent over 2013.

The report also said Indians spent USD 459,028 or Rs 2.81 crore on an average to buy properties across cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Chicago, Dallas, and New York.

"This is definitely an interesting finding. Indian high net worth individuals (HNIs) who have obtained American citizenship and are settled there have several rea-

sons for investing in properties in the US. Apart from India's long-standing love affair with the country, many Indians who have become naturalized US citizens have business interests as well as families in major American cities," JLL Chairman and Country Head Anuj

Puri said in a statement.

He noted that after the steep post-Lehman downturn, countless investors had been able to snap up properties in American cities at unbelievably low prices, and these investments are seeing handsome returns now that the US real estate market is re-

viving.

The Reserve Bank of India has recently increased the ceiling on outward remittances for individuals to buy overseas property under the Liberalized Remittances Scheme (LRS) to USD 1,25,000 from USD 75,000.

"This enhanced investment limit is a small but important window. For example, a married couple can now together buy a small property in a US suburb if they have the inclination to do so. Previously, real estate as an option was entirely withdrawn from the LRS scheme and the limit purview," Puri explained.

He further said that since quite a few apartments in the US are currently held by institutional investors who had bought them during crisis from distressed sellers, it is easy for a foreign buyer to make such deals with such institutions rather than with individual US house owners. -PTI

Black money probe against real estate firms NEW DELHI: CBDT has ordered an Income Tax department investigation against a number of real estate developers who were recently shown by an investigative portal to be willing

to accept alleged black money in property transactions.

The apex authority of the IT department has asked its investigation units across the country to furnish to it reports of any action or probe conducted against the groups

named by the portal in the past and in case such an action has not been done, the Central Board of Direct Taxes has ordered the same to be initiated.

"The CBDT has asked the in-

vestigation units of the I-T department that all these reports should reach it by the first fortnight of December," a senior official said.

The investigation done by portal Cobrapost.com included many developers from the na-

tional capital region and those from other parts of the country including Mumbai.

While releasing the transcripts and video recordings of its investigation at a press conference here, the portal said that executives from these companies, including some CEOs and CMDs, were ready to accept anywhere between 10-80 per cent of the property value in black money.

These 35 real estate companies under scanner are spread across the national capital, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Karnataka.

While some companies had outrightly rejected the allegations that they accept black money in their property transactions, a few others had said that they have already taken action against the concerned executives.

The portal said that most of these executives expressed will-

ingness to accept money abroad through hawala channels, including in Dubai, Bangkok, Singapore and the US. The findings of this investi-

The investigation done by portal Cobra-post.com included many developers from the national capital region and those from other parts of the country gation, named 'Operation Black Ninja', have come at a time when the government is making all efforts to bring back unaccounted money stashed by Indian citizens abroad. -PTI

Real Estate Post

December 5, 2014

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You can get your house back after foreclosure

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very state allows struggling homeowners to buy back their properties before the homes are lost to foreclosure sales. In about half the states, even foreclosure isn't the final word: Defaulting borrowers may have one last chance to get back their homes.

How it's done The little-known - and littleused - process is called redemption. The rules vary widely by state, but people who can come up with a sufficient lump sum may be allowed to repurchase their homes from whoever bought them at the foreclosure sale.

The homeowner must repay the full amount the buyer paid, plus certain other fees, says attorney Amy Loftsgordon, contributing editor for self-help publisher Nolo.

LIZ WESTON

The deadline for such redemptions varies from 60 days after the sale to as long as a year.

Redemption puts owners in limbo That can create more than a little uncertainty for people who buy homes in foreclosure sales, Loftsgordon notes.

"In Alabama, you're sitting on pins and needles for a year wondering, 'Is the owner going to come back?'" Loftsgordon says. "Is it likely? No. Is it possible? Sure."

Redeemers need cash The big problem is that homeowners have to come up with all that cash. Another loan to buy back the home typically isn't an option, since the borrower's struggles have trashed his or her credit scores and few lenders will take the risk.

"There are very, very rare situations where that will occur, where a small lender will work with you," says Loftsgordon, who previously worked at one of the nation's largest foreclosure law firms. Bigger

mied by often-complicated rules.

Now for the fine print In California, for example, only judicial foreclosures - ones where the lender files a lawsuit - offer a

The rules vary widely by state, but people who can come up with a sufficient lump sum may be allowed to repurchase their homes from whoever bought them at the foreclosure sale. lenders, however, "are not going to cut anybody a deal."

Occasionally, people who have lost their homes to foreclosure manage to scrape up sufficient funds, thanks to a windfall or loans from family or friends, Loftsgordon says. Even then, the former homeowner may be sty-

right of redemption. But the vast majority of foreclosures in that state are nonjudicial, meaning there was no court supervision.

Even in judicial foreclosures, the borrower doesn't have a right of redemption if the sale proceeds didn't cover the loan amount but the lender opted not to pursue a

deficiency judgment, or, in California, where the law prohibits such judgments in the homeowner's situation. (Deficiency judgments are prohibited if the loan was used to buy an owner-occupied home, for example.)

Other states, such as Ohio, have such complicated rules for redemption that an attorney's help is often necessary, Loftsgordon says.

Learning the rules Clearly, preventing foreclosure - such as through loan modifications or short sales - is often the better and cheaper route for homeowners. But for those who may be able to take advantage of one last chance, the right of redemption might be worth a try.

Courtesy Bankrate.com

Taxes on $59M Montana island Sebi permits 123 alternative funds to operate estate protested HELENA, Mont.: A California real estate investor wants the state of Montana to lower his property tax bill by reducing the assessed value of a home he built on an island in Flathead Lake from $41.8 million to $9.8 million.

The Tax Appeal Board heard arguments last week in the appeal filed by Don Abbey of La Mirada, California, Lee Newspapers of Montana reports.

Abbey built the 24,000-squarefoot home on Shelter Island in 2011. The home, guest house and boat house on 24 acres now are listed for sale at $59.5 million.

According to the state, the buildings are worth $41.8 million.

That valuation would put the annual property taxes at $367,700.

According to an appraiser hired

Abbey has been paying taxes under protest since 2012.

His proposed valuation would reduce his taxes by at least two-thirds.

by Abbey, the buildings should be valued at $9.8 million because the

house was ``overbuilt'' in a way that might not add value from a buyer's standpoint.

Abbey has been paying taxes under protest since 2012. His proposed valuation would reduce his taxes by at least two-thirds.

Abbey argued appraisers for the state over-valued the property because they compared it to similar properties outside the state, but they did not lower the value after taking into account the property is in Montana.

Attorneys for both sides are supposed to submit final written arguments after which the twomember board will have 90 days to make a decision. -AP

DLF allowed to deposit fine in installments NEW DELHI: Real estate major DLF has got a breather from the Supreme Court which allowed it to deposit in monthly installments the remaining Rs 480 crore of the Rs 630 crore fine slapped on it by Competition Commission of India (CCI) for allegedly resorting to unfair business practices.

A Bench headed by Chief Justice H L Dattu ordered that the real estate firm will commence the payment of installments of Rs 75 crore from January 15 next year.

The DLF has so far deposited Rs 150 crore with the apex court registry.

The court in its August 27 order had said the Registry will be at

liberty to invest it in any of the nationalized banks.

DLF had moved the apex court expressing difficulty in meeting the

November 26 deadline to deposit the entire Rs 630 crore as a precondition to entertain its appeal.

It had sought six months' time to comply with the direction. But the bench had asked it to deposit Rs 50 crore within three weeks and the rest Rs 580 crore in the next three months, that is before November 27.

The real estate company has sought more time for depositing rest of the amount claiming that it was in serious financial difficulty, which was aggravated by SEBI's decision to ban the company and six of its senior officials from accessing the capital markets for three years for an alleged non-disclosure in the 2007 IPO filing. -PTI

NEW DELHI: Market regulator Sebi has allowed as many as 123 entities to set up AIFs - newly created class of pooled-in investment vehicles for real estate, private equity and hedge funds - in less than two and half-years.

The 123 Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) have been registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) since July 2012.

Of these, around 34 entities got the market regulator's approval to operate so far this year (January-November), 67 in 2013 and the remaining 22 in 2011.

The AIFs that have registered with Sebi in November are Religare Dynamic Trust, Indus Way Emerging Market Fund and Carpediem Capital Partners Fund and those registered in October are Singular India Opportunities Trust.

The regulator had notified in

May 2012, the guidelines for this new class of market intermediaries. AIFs are basically funds established or incorporated in India for the purpose of pooling in capital from Indian and foreign investors for investing as per a pre-decided policy.

Under Sebi guidelines, AIFs can operate broadly in three categories. The Sebi rules apply to all AIFs, including those operating as private equity funds, real estate funds and hedge funds, among others.

The Category-I AIFs are those funds that get incentives from the government, Sebi or other regulators and include Social Venture Funds, Infrastructure Funds, Venture Capital Funds and SME Funds.

The Category-III, AIFs are those trading with a view to making shortterm returns and it includes hedge funds, among others. -PTI

Health

Line

Illinois to get more kids walking to school CHICAGO: With the help of federal funding, Illinois is trying to get more children to walk and bike to school with projects including new and better sidewalks.

The $5.9 million will go toward 58 projects around the state in what's being dubbed the Illinois Safe Routes to School program.

Besides sidewalks, projects include countdown signals at pedestrian crossings and speed feedback signs to show drivers how fast they're going.

The idea is to create a safer environment for children to walk and bike to school. And that includes those with disabilities.

Besides promoting healthy habits, Gov. Pat Quinn's office says the program will reduce vehicle traffic and associated air pollution near schools.

Quinn says ``students deserve to feel safe while traveling to and from school.'' -AP

Training in mental health first aid SIOUX FALLS, S.D.: A South Dakota group is set to present a free training session on mental health first aid.

The Helpline Center Suicide and Crisis Support will be hosting the event in Sioux Falls. The training will focus on the initial help given to someone who may be developing a mental illness or experiencing a mental health crisis.

The organization says participants will learn the signs and symptoms of the most common mental health problems, where and when to get help, and what type of help has been shown to be effective.-AP

ND Health Dept. seeks national accreditation

BISMARCK, N.D.: The North Dakota Health Department is seeking a national accreditation designed to improve the agency's services.

The Bismarck Tribune reports the agency wants to become certified with the Public Health Accreditation Board.

Six other state health departments have achieved the accreditation, which measures a health department's performance against a set of standards.

State health officer Terry Dwelle says he hopes the agency can become accredited in about a year. -AP

Health Science

A look at Arizona health insurance open enrollment

32 India Post

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December 5, 2014

Details on Page 34

Success in fight against HIV but S-E Asia area of concern NEW DELHI: Massive success has been achieved in the fight against HIV, but still more than 50 per cent of people living with the infection in South-East Asia region are either not linked to care or not aware of their status, a senior WHO official said here.

On the occasion of World Aids Day, Regional Director of WHO South-East Asia Poonam Khetrapal Singh said the success has come due to concerted efforts through civil society movements, supported by national and international commitments and scientific research.

"Massive gains have been achieved in our fight against HIV. We now have more than 10 million people on HIV treatment globally. Efforts continue and are being accelerated to achieve the ambitious target of ending AIDS by 2030," she said.

In the WHO South-East Asia region, as of 2013, there were around 3.4 million people living with HIV and 1.1 million of them are currently on treatment as against 83,000 people in 2004.

"We have managed to increase

the coverage 12-fold in a decade.

The HIV epidemic in our region is concentrated among populations most vulnerable to HIV: men who have sex with men, transgender people, people who inject drugs, sex workers, people in prisons and

strictive laws continue to be barriers to access of prevention, care and treatment services, Khetrapal said.

This year, WHO has launched an updated Consolidated Guidelines on the use of antiretroviral

other closed settings. Although we have been successful in scaling up the health sector response for the vulnerable populations, more needs to be done," said Khetrapal.

Stigma, discrimination and re-

drugs for treating and preventing HIV infection, diagnosis and care.

"These are guided by human rights principles and call for governments to enforce protective laws to eliminate discrimination and violence faced by key popu-

lations," Khetrapal said.

Further, she said WHO is releasing a new update to recommend antiretroviral drugs as an emergency prevention intervention following possible HIV exposure for HIV-negative individuals and to prevent and manage common infections that affect many people living with HIV. Medicine access for HIV people World Vision India, a charitable organization, has called for urgent intervention to ensure that people living with HIV and AIDS get lifesaving antiretroviral Therapy drugs (ART) in India.

World Vision India in association with the Lawyers' Collective organized multi-stakeholder consultation, focusing on spreading awareness about access to drugs as well as diagnostics for People Living with HIV (PLHIV) and building a public support base towards resolving this issue.

They also urged decision makers to pass the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Bill 2014.

Cont'd on Page 35

18 new Ayurveda colleges get Center's nod NEW DELHI: Eighteen new Ayurveda colleges have received the Center's nod this year, against permission for only one such institution in the last three years. The new government seeks to promote traditional forms of treatment and integrate them into the existing health care system.

Seven of these new colleges will come up in Uttar Pradesh followed by three in Maharashtra, two in Rajasthan besides six others in as many states, Ayush Ministry sources said.

The ministry is in charge of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy.

The approval has come this year and has been given against proposals for setting up 39 new Ayurveda institutions.

Permission was granted to

only one college last year against proposals for 30 new colleges the previous government had received. No permission was given in 2011 and 2012.

There are currently 281

existing health care system, a committee set up by the BJP government to promote "holistic health" had recommended reforms in medical education, research and legal framework.

Ayurveda colleges in the country offering 15,057 graduate and 3,081 post-graduate seats.

Pitching for integration of Ayurveda, Yoga and other traditional forms of treatment in the

Noting that Ayush infrastructure is far from satisfactory besides the industry being poorly regulated, the government had notified National Ayush Mission (NAM) in September this year,

laying down a detailed road map to shore it up.

NAM aims to improve Ayush education and provide better access to its service through increase in number of Ayush hospitals and dispensaries, besides offering quality drugs by increasing pharmacies, drug laboratories and "improved enforcement mechanism".

"On one hand many Ayush education centers are in poor shape and on the other, lack of quality control often makes people suspect the practitioners and quality of drugs they provide," sources said, adding that government was working to turn things around.

The Centre is also in talks with states to improve legislative framework to regulate Ayush practitioners and drugs. -PTI

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Gut microbiota can prevent metabolic syndrome WASHINGTON: Promoting healthy gut microbiota, the bacteria that live in the intestine, can help treat or prevent metabolic syndrome, scientists have found.

A person with metabolic syndrome is twice as likely to develop heart disease and five times as likely to develop diabetes.

Researchers at Georgia State University and Cornell University did a follow-up on their previous research published in journal Science, using an improved technical approach to make the results more significant.

In the previous study, researchers showed altered gut microbiota plays a role in promoting metabolic syndrome.

Gut microbiota performs key functions in health and when it becomes dysregulated it can promote chronic inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

In addition, altered gut microbiota promotes inflammation that leads to metabolic syndrome.

"We've filled in a lot of the details about how it works," said Dr Andrew Gewirtz, a professor in the Institute for Biomedical Sciences at Georgia State.

"It's the loss of TLR5 on the epithelium, the cells that line the

surface of the intestine and their ability to quickly respond to bacteria.

"That ability goes away and results in a more aggressive bacterial population that gets closer in and produces substances that drive inflammation," Gewirtz said.

Normally, the bacteria are in the

In the new study, they found the absence of TLR5 on the intestinal surface leads to alterations in bacteria that drive inflammation, leading to metabolic syndrome. mucous layer at a certain distance away from epithelial cells. The researchers showed altered gut microbiota is more aggressive in infiltrating the host and gets very close to the epithelium.

This altered population produces flagellin and lipopolysaccharide, which further promote inflammation.

The research team improved the study by comparing mice that were siblings and littermates, making all conditions in the study the same. The mice only differed by whether they were missing a specific gene, TLR5.

Previously, the researchers studied mice that were from two different strains and lived in separate environments.

In the new study, they found the absence of TLR5 on the intestinal surface leads to alterations in bacteria that drive inflammation, leading to metabolic syndrome.

"These results suggest that developing a means to promote a more healthy microbiota can treat or prevent metabolic disease," Gewirtz said.

"They confirm the concept that altered microbiota can promote low-grade inflammation and metabolic syndrome and advance the underlying mechanism.

"We showed that the altered bacterial population is more aggressive in infiltrating the host and producing substances, namely flagellin and lipopolysaccharide, that further promote inflammation," Gewirtz said.

The findings are published in the journal Gastroenterology. -PTI

Harmful mosquito species identified WASHINGTON: Of about 450 different species of mosquitoes in the Anopheles genus, only 60 can transmit the Plasmodium malaria parasite that is harmful to people, scientists say.

According to a multi-institutional team of researchers, certain species of mosquitoes are genetically better at transmitting malaria than even some of their close cousins.

The team, including researchers from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, chose 16 mosquito species that are currently found in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America, but evolved from the same ancestor approximately 100 million years ago.

Today, the 16 species have varying capabilities for transmitting malaria and adapting to new environments.

The team sequenced their genomes to better understand the evolutionary science behind the differences.

The results may advance understanding about the biological differences between mosquitoes

that transmit malaria, and ultimately, how species might be more precisely controlled to stop transmission.

"With the availability of genome sequences from Anopheles

mosquitoes of divergent lineages, variable adaptations, and differing disease-transmission abilities, we now have the exciting opportunity to significantly improve our understanding of these important malaria vectors and develop new strategies to combat malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases," said Zhijian Tu, a profes-

sor of biochemistry in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

A key finding was that the most dangerous species, Anopheles gambiae, is able to increase its transmission capabilities by swapping genes at the chromosome level.

"We found out that multiple rearrangements on the sex chromosome prevent the species from completely intermixing, while traits enhancing malaria transmission capabilities can cross species boundaries if other chromosomes encode them," said Igor Sharakhov, an associate professor of entomology in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

The results advance the idea that a genetic process called introgression, where genes from one species flow into another, plays a role in evolution, in this case by enhancing the capacity of mosquitoes to transmit the malaria parasite.

The study was published in the journal Science. -PTI

40 per cent kids don't have healthy BMI BENGALURU: School children in the country are lagging in health and fitness parameters with 40 per cent of kids not having a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) and required endurance levels, says a countrywide study, warning that the current generation was heading towards an "unhealthy future".

The study for the academic year 2013-14 covered 1,15,559 children in the age group of 7 to 17 years in 287 s c h o o l s across 85 cities from 23 states.

In a comparative study between boys and girls, it found that 65 per cent of girls have healthy Body Mass Index scores compared to 59 per cent of boys.

However, girls score lower than boys in other fitness parameters (anaerobic capacity, flexibility, upper body strength and abdominal strength) indicating that they are still short on overall fitness, the study released here said.

Children in all five regions of the country were deemed more or less equally unfit with unhealthy BMI scores of 37 per cent (Cen-

tral), 54 per cent (East), 37 per cent (North), 38 per cent (South) and 36 per cent (West), said the study

by EduSports, physical education and school sports enterprise.

Non-metros score higher than metros in terms of BMI levels and fitness parameters, it said.

Children in non-metros demonstrated better flexibility (75 per cent in non-metros and 70 per cent in metros), had good upper body

strength (64 per cent in nonmetros and 61 per cent in metros) and a marginal overall BMI score (61 per cent in non-metros and 60 per cent metros).

"The lack of health and fitness among such a large number of children yet again proves that physical activity/sports in schools should be viewed as an important part of the curriculum for the overall development of a child," Saumil Majmudar, CEO and Co-founder of EduSports, said. u

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Tests show no vineyard pests in Washington YAKIMA, Wash.: The most extensive trapping for certain wine grape pests conducted by the Washington State Department of Agriculture has resulted in a clean bill of health.

The department trapped and took leaf and root samples at a total of 3,186 sites, from the San Juan Islands to the Columbia Gorge but mainly in the Eastern Washington counties of Yakima, Benton, Franklin and Walla Walla.

Trapping went from the end of June into September, looking for four species of destructive moths, vine mealy bug and grape phylloxera.

Root samples were taken at 165 of the sites looking for grape phylloxera, an aphid-like pest that attacks grape roots and is considered the most serious grape pest in the world, said Mike Klaus, a WSDA entomologist in Yakima. ``We looked for several species of pests and other diseases and everything was negative except for one old positive site for phylloxera near Wapato,'' Klaus said.

It was found at that same site in 1988 and it was surprising more wasn't found, he said.

A genetic analysis of root samples still is being conducted in Olympia and could show positive for phylloxera, but otherwise it looks like the pest just doesn't do well in Eastern Washington, he

said.

Phylloxera almost wiped out French vineyards in the 1880s and was detected in Washington vineyards in 1988, 1989 and 2002, Klaus said.

But it has never been severe in Washington and scientists at Washington State University be-

`Grapes are a relatively new crop in Washington, so we don't have a lot of pests that are in older grape areas,'' Klaus said. ``That's why we do vigilant monitoring." lieve it just doesn't like Eastern Washington's soils or dry climate, Klaus said. ``We suspect it's out there at low levels,'' he said, ``but different grape varieties coming in could be more susceptible, so it's good to check.''

The four species of destructive moths - European Grapevine Moth, European Grape Berry Moth, Grape Tortrix and Grapevine Tortrix - also were not found,

Klaus said.

Pheramone traps were placed in most of the state's 13 wine grape growing regions.

European Grapevine Moth was found in California's Napa Valley in 2009 and became a serious threat.

In 2013, USDA's Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service released $16.9 million in emergency funding to combat it. Mating disruption and other control techniques had some success, he said.

Ten counties in California have vine mealy bug but it has not been found in Washington, he said. ``If any of these pests were to become established here, they could pose a serious threat to our grape and wine industries,'' Klaus said.

Washington wine grape growers do deal with leaf roll and grapevine red blotch, viruses that delay ripening, hinder color and sugar in grapes and result in higher acidity. They are acerbated by cool weather and were held in check this season by warm weather. ``Grapes are a relatively new crop in Washington, so we don't have a lot of pests that are in older grape areas,'' Klaus said. ``That's why we do vigilant monitoring.

We might be able to mitigate some of these pests if we catch them early enough.'' -AP

Bitter wild fruits may help treat cancer WASHINGTON: Compounds that provide bitter flavor to cucumbers, pumpkins and watermelons - used in Indian and Chinese medicine for thousands of years may also help treat cancer and diabetes, scientists say.

Using high-tech genomics, researchers have identified the genes responsible for the intense bitter taste of wild cucumbers.

Taming this bitterness made cucumber, pumpkin and their relatives into popular foods, but the same compounds also have potential to treat cancer and diabetes, researchers said.

That bitter flavor in wild cucurbits - the family that includes cucumber, pumpkin, melon, watermelon and squash - is due to compounds called cucurbitacins. The bitter taste protects wild plants against predators.

The fruit and leaves of wild cucurbits have been used in Indian and Chinese medicine for thousands of years, as emetics

and purgatives and to treat liver disease.

More recently, researchers have shown that cucurbitacins can kill or suppress growth of cancer cells.

Bitterness is known to be controlled by two genetic traits, "Bi"

which confers bitterness on the whole plant and "Bt", which leads to bitter fruit.

William Lucas from the University of California, Davis, Sanwen Huang at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and colleagues employed the latest in DNA sequencing technology to

identify the exact changes in DNA associated with bitterness.

They were able to identify nine genes involved in making cucurbitacin, and show that the trait can be traced to two transcription factors that switch on these nine genes, in either leaves or the fruit, to produce cucurbitacin.

The new research shows how domestication tweaked cucumber genetics to make the fruit more edible. Understanding that process might open up approaches to developing other food crops based on plants that are naturally either inedible or poor in nutrition, Lucas said.

It could also make it much easier to produce cucurbitacins in large enough quantities to use in clinical trials and potentially in medicine, Lucas said.

The research was published in the journal Science. -PTI

Former zoo elephant euthanized in California SACRAMENTO, Calif.: A Northern California sanctuary for circus and zoo animals has euthanized a 55-year-old elephant named Annie.

The Sacramento Bee reported on the last days of the Indian elephant, which had come to the Performing Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) refuge in Calaveras County nearly 20 years ago.

Captured in her native India at the age of 1, Annie spent most of her life chained in U.S. zoos.

Outcry over videos showing keepers at the Milwaukee County Zoo beating her in 1994 spurred her transfer to the more than 2,000-acre elephant refuge in Calaveras County.

Exotic-animal veterinarian Jackie Gai told the Sacramento Bee that Annie suffered from arthritis and foot diseases, ailments common in captive elephants. The elephant also tested positive for tuberculosis in 2012, after her arrival.

This autumn, Gai said, Annie stopped wanting to leave the barn at the refuge for her usual dips in a lake and walks on the hills.

Refuge officials decided to use injections to put her down on the afternoon of Nov. 18. ``I fed her treats all day,'' said

Ed Stewart, a co-founder of the refuge. ``She got boxes of Frosted Flakes, the best hay, a little alfalfa.

We spent the whole day with her, getting ready.''

PAWS, which houses 10 African and Asian elephants and a number of smaller animals, was started by Stewart and by a former Hollywood animal trainer. The refuge is a critic of animal exhibits at

both zoos and circuses, which in turn fault the refuge for opposing the captive breeding of endangered elephants.

A 2008 study by British and Canadian biologists concluded female elephants in the wild live twice as long as their counterparts in zoos, on average. Global demand for ivory, however, has driven poaching of elephants to ``critically high levels'' in Africa in particular, a United Nations report said earlier this month. -AP

Delhi launches online hepatitis immunization NEW DELHI: An online campaign to spread awareness about hepatitis immunization has been launched by the Delhi government's health department in collaboration with Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) as part of the Hepatitis Awareness Week.

"The idea is information sharing within the medical community and also making the health staff at Delhi hospitals, primary health care centers, maternity homes and field workers like Ashas and medical officers aware about viral hepatitis, their modes of transmission and possible preventive measures.

"Also, blood safety and cleanliness are other preventive aspects. These people in turn can educate families and people that

they come across in their day-today life," D K Dewan, Director, Health and Family Welfare, said.

The web-campaign will facilitate participation of all stakeholders in state, district, health agencies, women and child department from their respective work places.

Hepatitis Awareness Week is observed in the first week of December every year.

ILBS' Director S K Sarin advised all health care workers to get vaccinated and ensure immunization against the disease.

He presented the long-term goal of eliminating viral hepatitis by 2080 through a multi-pronged approach including 100 per cent immunization coverage of infants with 4 doses of Hepatitis B vaccine starting at birth. -PTI

December 5, 2014

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California pushes to expand immigrant health care SACRAMENTO, Calif.: President Barack Obama's executive order to spare some immigrants from deportation has galvanized Democrats, immigration groups and health care advocates in California to push for expanding health coverage to a segment of the population that remains uninsured.

The president's action excludes immigrants who came to the country illegally from qualifying for federal health benefits.

But California has its own policy of providing health coverage with state money to low-income immigrants with so-called ``deferred action'' that allow them to avoid deportation. Immigrant and health care advocates say that means Obama's executive order will enable hundreds of thousands of low-income immigrants in California to apply for Medi-Cal, California's version of Medicaid.

Anthony Wright, executive director of Health Access California, said allowing this expanded group of immigrants to participate in the Medicaid program will enable people to get primary and preventive care, ``rather than just at the emergency room.''

The California Department of Health Care Services, however, has yet to receive

Californians, about 30 percent of the state's population. The federal government is paying for the expansion, but the state will eventually pay 10 percent of additional costs to cover low-income adults, many of whom are childless.

The state is expected to spend more than $17 billion of its own money on the program this year, up 3.5 percent a year ago, according to the Legislative Analyst's Office. ``We are assessing what some of the potential impacts could be, but it would be premature for us to comment until we have more specific information available,'' said Norman Williams, a spokesman for the Department of Health Care Services.

The president's action Rosa Guerra, 52, right, gets a free eye exam during the has also emboldened a Binational Health Week event held at the Mexican Consulate in Democratic lawmaker to reLos Angeles vive a bill that would provide paid for by the federal government and the health coverage to all Californians, regardstate. It has grown by about 3 million people less of their immigration status. in California under federal health care reSen. Ricardo Lara, D-Bell Gardens, plans form and now covers more than 11 million to reintroduce his Health4All bill to open Medi-Cal to immigrants, as well as extending subsidized health benefits in a new informal guidance. A state official said it's too early to tell how the immigration program will impact the overall Medi-Cal program, which is consuming an increasing share of state funds.

Medi-Cal is a health program for the poor

Success in fight against HIV but S-E Asia area of concern Cont'd from Page 32

"Over 8.5 lakh Indians depend on ART drugs to lead a relatively healthy life. Once a patient starts the therapy, medicine needs to be taken daily with proper adherence, or else the drugs quickly lose their effectiveness. Once this happens, PLHIV have to switch to a second line of treatment which is five-times more expensive than first-line drugs," said Daisy David, Advocacy Officer, World Vision India.

While the access to drugs is a major area of concern, the long-pending HIV Bill is yet to be passed by the Indian Parliament.

Males suffer from the disease more than females nationwide, adding that it was primarily because men establish physical contact with multiple partners.

The Bill was drafted in 2006, and aims to protect the rights of people infected and affected by HIV, and provides for protection of HIV-positive people and their family members from stigma and discrimination.

"HIV has long gone past being a medical problem and is now an issue that cuts across social, economic, psychological, medical, and human rights parameters.

"While the HIV bills aims to provide protection against human rights violations and recently achieved the milestone of being

tabled in the Rajya Sabha, it has a long way to go before being passed as law," said Anand Grover of Lawyer's Collective.

To spread awareness on the unavailability of ART drugs, World Vision India is also organizing a photo exhibition titled 'Ek Nazar'.

The UN estimates that India currently has the third largest population of people living with HIV in the world, with around 2.2 million affected by the disease.

Men contract HIV more than women INDORE: A total of 31,966 people tested positive for AIDS in last six years in Madhya Pradesh, according to MP AIDS Control Society.

Of the total number, 60.50 per cent constitute male and experts said men contracted HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) primarily due to unsafe sex.

Indore was among places where the spread of disease was high in the state.

"Men have fallen prey to the disease mainly due to unsafe sex practice," city-based government Maharaja Yeswantrao hospital's Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Department Head Dr Shivshanker Sharma told PTI. He said that males suffer from the disease more than females nationwide, adding that it was primarily because men establish physical contact with multiple partners.

Dr Sharma said that drivers and others who were in professions involving extensive traveling contract HIV in a large number. He also attributed unsafe homosexual intercourse as a key reason causing AIDS among men. -PTI

surance marketplace for those without legal status. The proposal, which previously carried a cost as high as $1.3 billion a year, stalled in a legislative committee last cycle and Republicans had criticized the cost of the expansion. ``The president's action covers almost half of California's undocumented population, but that still leaves over a million people with no access to health care. We can do better. The bill will cover those remaining uninsured that will not benefit from Obama's action,'' Lara said.

According to the Center for American Progress, a progressive think tank in Washington, D.C., the president's action lifts the threat of deportation to as many as 1.2 million immigrants living illegally in California. There are an estimated 2.6 million people living illegally in the state.

The issue of benefits for immigrants who are illegally in the United States is a sensitive one.

Joe Guzzardi a spokesman for Californians for Population Stabilization, a Santa Barbara, California-based group that advocates for lower population, said the state is already more generous toward immigrants than most states and adding health coverage may attract more people to cross into California illegally. -AP

In Brief Swiss voters reject 'green' immigration cap GENEVA: The Swiss rejected three issues put to a popular vote, including calls to cap immigration in the name of saving the environment, according to initial results and projections.

Results published by a handful of the country's 26 cantons, including Geneva, showed voters flatly rejecting the so-called Ecopop initiative, as well as bids to scrap special tax breaks for rich foreigners living but not working in Switzerland, and on forcing the central bank to increase its gold reserves.

Estimates by polling agency gfs.bern, published by public broadcaster RTS, indicated that a full 74 per cent of voters nationwide said "no" to Ecopop, which aimed to dramatically cut immigration to preserve the Alpine nation's idyllic landscape.

Twenty-six per cent were seen voting in favor, according to those estimates.

A full 78 per cent had meanwhile voted down the so-called Gold initiative, which would force the Swiss National Bank to boost its gold reserves to at least 20 per cent of its holdings, nearly three times more than today's level of seven percent, that estimate indicated.

Only 22 per cent of voters were believed to have approved that move. -AFP

„ Laxalt joins protest over Obama's order LAS VEGAS: Nevada Attorney General-elect Adam Laxalt has joined a protest sponsored by the Republican Attorneys General Association against President Barack Obama's executive order on immigration.

Laxalt is among 20 attorneys general and attorneys generalelects who signed a joint statement objecting to Obama's decision to prevent the deportation of an estimated 5 million people.

The letter doesn't any outline any course of legal action, but it dovetails with GOP pledges to challenge the president's action in court.

Laxalt adviser Robert Uithoven told the Las Vegas Sun that Laxalt plans to take no immediate legal action against Obama's order once he takes office in January.

Laxalt sent an email to supporters saying he wants the nation's immigration policies to be determined by Congress and not through a presidential executive order. -AP

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Immigrants' chances to stay tied to their State's policies PHOENIX: If Christian Avila lived a few hundred miles to the west, he would have a driver's license and qualify for in-state college tuition and a host of other opportunities available to young people granted legal status by President Barack Obama two years ago.

But Avila lives in Phoenix, and the 24-year-old immigrant who was brought here from Mexico by his parents at age 9 still has to navigate the sprawling city in fear as he drives to school or work. ``You get nervous, your legs start to tingle a little bit when there's a cop behind you, when you're doing nothing wrong by driving to work,' said Avila, a community college student and immigration activist. ``You're not breaking any rules, you're following the law. But unfortunately it's where we live.''

With the recent Obama action that expanded the deferred action program and added millions of other immigrants, Avila's plight highlights a harsh reality about the president's changes. The president may be allowing them to re-

main in the U.S., but it doesn't mean their state will let them drive a car, get an education at an affordable rate or obtain health insurance.

A patchwork of rules began to

censes while liberal locations were much more welcoming in terms of state services and benefits.

Now, states must make new decisions on how to respond to

Doug Ducey, who was elected as Arizona governor, waves to election-night supporters on Nov. 4 in Phoenix. Ducey's administration will have to decide whether to continue a hard-line approach toward state benefits for immigrants living in the country illegally that outgoing Gov. Jan Brewer took.

form in states - largely along political lines - after the president allowed some young immigrants to stay in the country. Conservative states like Nebraska and Arizona kept them from getting driver's li-

the president's action that allows millions more immigrants to remain in the U.S. In California, Democrats, immigration groups and health care advocates are pushing for the im-

migrants to receive health care under the state's version of the Medicaid program. The California Department of Health Care Services is deciding how to proceed.

The president's action excludes immigrants who came to the country illegally from qualifying for federal health benefits.

In Nevada, officials are drawing up a bill for the Legislature making clear that unauthorized immigrants can become teachers in the state. Current rules specify that a prospective teacher must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident before they can receive a teaching license in Nevada.

A new gubernatorial administration in Arizona will have to decide whether to continue a hard-line approach toward state benefits that outgoing Gov. Jan Brewer took.

After Obama took action in 2012 granting legal status to 1.8 million young people brought to the U.S. as children, Brewer issued an executive order denying them driver's licenses or other state benefits, including in-state tuition at the state's public universities.

Cont'd on Page 39

Obama heckled in Chicago on immigration reform WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama was heckled several times while delivering a speech on immigration reform and his recent executive actions related to it in his home town of Chicago.

At least four hecklers started disrupting the President's speech when he was midway through it.

The President himself tried to calm down the situation and respond to the allegations from hecklers.

"It's good to be back in Chicago," Obama said amidst laughter and applause from the audience as one of the hecklers tried to disrupt his speech.

"Because everybody has got something to say. But I'm not going to be able to have a conversation with each of you separately," he said amidst another round of laughter.

"So there are other ways of en- category, and that's those who gaging. Just sit down. may be dangerous. It's a small miI went off script for a pretty long time. I don't mind. I know people are passionate about this.

But be respectful of everybody who's here," he said urging hecklers to calm down.

It all started when he was speaking on undocumented workers who break law, and are in a small minority.

"Undocumented workers who broke our immigration President Barack Obama defended his immigration reform executive actions in Chicago while laws should be held reiterating that his preference is for a "commonaccountable. sense" law from Congress.

There's a particular

nority, but it's a significant one.

And that's why, over the past six years, deportations of criminals are up 80 per cent," he said.

Obama said the US will keep focusing its limited enforcement resources on those who actually pose a threat to its security.

"Felons, not families. Gangs, not some mom or dad who are working hard just trying to make a better life for their kids," Obama said as one of the hecklers interrupted his speech.

"Mr President, that has been a lie. You have been deporting every -," the heckler said as he was booed by the audience.

"All right. Okay. All right.

That's fine. All right," Obama said.

"Not one more! Stop deportations!" the heckler demanded.

Nothing much was audible as the heckler continued.-PTI

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Obama's action fuels worry about immigration scams SAN DIEGO: Advocacy groups barely waited for President Barack Obama to finish speaking about sweeping changes to the U.S. immigration system to start warning about scams. ``We hear horror stories about people getting taken advantage of horribly,'' attorney Ginger Jacobs told several dozen people who watched the president's speech at Alliance San Diego offices.

California Attorney General Kamala Harris and Mexican consulates sounded similar alarms after Obama promised executive action that is expected to shield about 5 million people from deportation. For decades, immigrants have fallen victim to attorneys and consultants who disappear with their money or give bad advice that may land them in deportation proceedings. ``Anything related to immigration tends to have this activity associated with it,'' said Laura Vazquez, senior immigration legislative analyst at National Council of La Raza, a Latino advocacy group. ``There are people who really want to get right with the law and seek any opportunity to adjust their status. They'll sometimes believe things that aren't true.''

Harris, whose state is home to

an estimated 2.4 million people who immigrated to the U.S. illegally, issued a lengthy ``consumer alert'' saying changes of the magnitude Obama announced often invite con artists. Her tips include making sure that attorneys are licensed and advisers are recog-

next month at the Los Angeles Convention Center, said political director Apolonio Morales. The advocacy group recommends working through trusted community organizations.

There have been few reports of efforts to profit from the president's

Advocacy groups barely waited for President Barack Obama to finish speaking about sweeping changes to the U.S. immigration system to start warning about scams.

nized by the U.S. Justice Department's Board of Immigration Appeals.

The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles warned of fraud when delivering Thanksgiving turkeys and will repeat the message at a workshop

announcement, which promises work permits for parents of U.S. citizens and legal residents who have been in the country for five years and have a clean criminal record. It also makes more people who arrived as young children eligible to stay.

Immigrants' chances to stay tied to their State's policies Cont'd from Page 36

A federal appeals court ruled the license ban was unconstitutional, and Brewer is considering an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. ``Our position is unilateral action by the president does nothing to change the fact that an illegal alien's presence is the United States is not authorized under federal law,'' Brewer spokesman Andrew Wilder said.

Arizona's Republican Governor-elect, Doug Ducey, has said he intends to continue Brewer's current ban, if it survives court challenges.

Maryland's Democratic governor, Martin O'Malley, has taken a decidedly different tack. He's a supporter of state laws granting in-state tuition to people without legal status and grants them driver's licenses. He has even been willing to get into a policy fight with Obama on the stream of unaccompanied immigrant children from Central America over the Mexican border, criticizing the White House proposal earlier this year that could have expedited the deportation of the children.

Arizona remains an outlier in its

treatment of immigrants granted work permits and is among the harshest when it comes to those who remain in the U.S. without legal authorization.

States surrounding Arizona provide in-state tuition to all residents, regardless of immigration status. And in January, California joins nine other states in allowing

Utah provides leniency when it comes to driving privileges and education, despite passing a law in 2011 that mirrored Arizona's landmark immigration crackdown immigrants who can't prove they're in the U.S legally to get a driver's license.

Utah provides leniency when it comes to driving privileges and education, despite passing a law in 2011 that mirrored Arizona's landmark immigration crackdown, SB1070. The state issues driving-

privilege cards that must be renewed annually for those who cannot prove they're in the country legally.

Nearly 36,300 were issued last year, said Nannette Rolfe, the director of Utah's Driver License Division. Utah also offers in-state tuition at public universities and colleges to residents not in the U.S. legally.

To be eligible, students must have attended a Utah high school for at least three years and earned a diploma or GED. They can't hold a non-immigrant visa and must file an application to legalize their immigration status when eligible to do so. In the 2012-2013 academic students, 929 students took advantage of the program.

Despite the fact that life would be easier if he left the state, Avila said he's staying put. ``This is where we got dirty as kids, this is where we learn how to speak English, this is where we learn how to do a lot of stuff,'' he said. ``Here in Arizona is where my friends, my family, live and I don't see it as an option to run away, but rather stand up and change the conditions that we live under.''

-AP

Some are encouraged that a 2012 reprieve for some young immigrants didn't produce widespread abuse. Dan Kowalski, editor of Bender's Immigration Bulletin, credits advocacy groups for aggressive outreach and says social media has allowed word of scams to spread quickly.

The Federal Trade Commission reported 891 complaints for immigration services last year, up from 746 the previous year but down from 1,220 in 2011. The extent of abuse is believed to be underreported. ``A lot of immigrants don't have anywhere to go,'' said California Assemblywoman Lorena Gonzalez, a San Diego Democrat who plans to propose disclosure requirements for anyone selling services tied to Obama's moves. ``It's in the shadows.''

Kowalski, like many attorneys and advocates, believes it is too early to hire anyone because the

government isn't expected to publish applications for three to six months. ``There's no application date, there's no form, there's no procedure,'' he said. ``Anyone who pays a dime is gambling.''

Waiting is the hardest part for some. A woman at the San Diego gathering to watch Obama's speech asked if someone who gets stopped by police would be deported before applying.

Jacobs said she didn't know but that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement was unlikely to expel someone who qualifies under Obama's announcement. She recommended carrying children's birth certificates, leases and other documents.

Another attorney, Cesar Luna, agreed that agents were unlikely to deport someone who appears eligible, saying, ``They tend to give the person the benefit of the doubt.'' -AP

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Immigration Post

38 India Post

December 5, 2014

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Obama executive actions include enforcement

S

hortly after the mid-term elections, President Barack Obama initiated several executive actions on immigration.

As outlined in a series of Department of Homeland Security memoranda, the executive actions include, among other things: • Supporting high-skilled business and workers. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will take a number of administrative actions to better enable U.S. businesses to hire and retain highly skilled foreign-born workers and strengthen and expand opportunities for students to gain on-thejob training. For example, DHS notes, "because our immigration system suffers from extremely long waits for green cards, we will amend current regulations and make other administrative changes to provide needed flexibility to workers with approved employ-

CYRUS D. MEHTA

aim of promoting its greater use.

-USCIS proposing a program allowing parole status, on a case-by-case basis, to inventors, researchers, and founders of start-up enterprises who may not yet qualify for national interest waivers but "who have been awarded substantial U.S. investor financing or otherwise hold the promise of innovation and job creation through the development of new technologies or the pursuit of cutting-edge research." The regulation will include income and resource thresholds.

-USCIS issuing a policy memorandum to provide "clear, consolidated guidance" on the meaning of "specialized knowledge" in adjudicating L-1B petitions.

-USCIS issuing a policy memorandum providing guid-

(DHS) will take a number of administrative actions to better enable U.S. businesses to hire and retain highly skilled foreign-born workers and strengthen and expand opportunities for students to gain on-the-job training. ment-based green card petitions."

Some of the actions called for in the memo include: - U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) working with the Department of State (DOS) to improve the system for determining when immigrant visas are available to applicants during the fiscal year. DOS has agreed to modify its visa bulletin system "to more simply and reliably make such determinations," and the memo states an expectation that USCIS will revise its current regulations "to reflect and complement these proposed modifications."

- USCIS considering "amending its regulations to ensure that approved, long-standing visa petitions remain valid in certain cases where [beneficiaries] seek to change jobs or employers."

- U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) developing regulations for notice and comment to expand the degree programs eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) and to extend the time period and use of OPT for foreign STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) students and graduates.

-USCIS issuing guidance or regulations to clarify the standard for granting a national interest waiver green card, with the

ance on worker portability, specifically with respect to what constitutes a "same or similar" job, with a goal of removing "unnecessary restrictions" on "natural career progression."

• Enforcement efforts, including commissioning three Joint Task Forces. Joint Task Force East, Joint Task Force West, and Joint Task Force Investigations.

All three will incorporate elements of the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Joint Task Force East will be responsible for the southern maritime border and approaches.

Joint Task Force West will be responsible for the southern land border and the West Coast. Joint Task Force Investigations will focus on investigations in support of the geographic Task Forces.

The overarching goals of the Southern Border and Approaches Campaign, of which the Joint Task Forces are a part, will be to enforce immigration laws and interdict individuals seeking to enter the U.S. without authorization; degrade international criminal organizations; and decrease the threat of terrorism.

Ending the Secure Communities

program and replacing it with the Priority Enforcement Program, and prioritizing criminal offenses for arrest, detention, and removal. The • Expanding Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) to encompass a broader class of children. DACA eligibility had been limited to those who were under 31 years of age on June 15, 2012, who entered the United States before June 15, 2007, and who were under 16 years old when they entered. DACA eligibility will be expanded to cover all undocumented immigrants who entered the United States before the age of 16, and not just those born after June 15, 1981.

The entry date will be adjusted from June 15, 2007 to January 1, 2010. The relief (including work authorization) will now last for three years rather than two.

• Extending eligibility for deferred action to parents of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. This new program, called Deferred Action for Parental Accountability (DAPA), will include individuals who (i) are not removal priorities under the new policy, (ii) have been in the United States at least five years, (iii) have children who on the date of the announcement (November 20, 2014) were U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, and (iv) present no other factors that would make a grant of deferred action inappropriate.

These individuals will be assessed for eligibility for deferred action on a case-by-case basis.

They may then apply for work authorization, provided they pay a fee. Each individual will undergo a background check of relevant national security and criminal databases, including DHS and

The recommendations will be developed in consultation with "business people, labor leaders, universities, and other stakeholders."

FBI databases.

• Expanding I-601A provisional waivers to spouses and children of lawful permanent residents. The provisional waiver program DHS announced in January 2013 for undocumented spouses and children of U.S. citizens will be expanded to include

the spouses and children of lawful permanent residents, as well as the adult children of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. At the same time, the administration will further clarify the "extreme hardship" standard that must be met to obtain the waiver.

• Revising parole rules. DHS will begin rulemaking to identify the conditions under which "talented entrepreneurs" should be paroled into the United States, on the ground that their entry would yield a "significant public economic benefit." DHS will also support the military and its recruitment efforts by working with the Department of Defense to address the availability of parole-in-place and deferred action to spouses, parents, and children of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who seek to enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces.

that the Congress provides for and intends to be issued, consistent with demand."

In consultation with technology experts inside and outside the government, they will develop recommendations "for modernizing the information technology infrastructure underlying the visa processing system, with a goal of reducing redundant systems, improving the experience of applicants, and enabling better public and congressional oversight of the system."

President Obama also announced that he is establishing a White House Task Force on New Americans, an interagency effort "to identify and support state and local efforts at integration that are working and to consider how to expand and replicate successful models." The Task Force, which will engage with community, busi-

He is establishing a White House Task Force on New Americans, an interagency effort "to identify and support state and local efforts at integration and to consider how to expand and replicate successful models."

DHS will also issue guidance to clarify that when anyone is given advance parole to leave the United States, including those who obtain deferred action, they will not be considered to have departed. Undocumented aliens generally trigger a 3- or 10-year bar to returning to the United States when they depart.

• President Obama also issued a memorandum directing the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security, in consultation with other federal agencies, to develop recommendations for improving the U.S. visa system.

The recommendations will be developed in consultation with "business people, labor leaders, universities, and other stakeholders." The recommendations will be geared toward streamlining and improving the legal immigration system-including immigrant and non-immigrant visa processing-"with a focus on reforms that reduce government costs, improve services for applicants, reduce burdens on employers, and combat waste, fraud, and abuse in the system."

In consultation with stakeholders with relevant expertise in immigration law, they will also develop recommendations "to ensure that administrative policies, practices, and systems use all of the immigrant visa numbers

ness, and faith leaders, as well as state and local elected officials, "will help determine additional steps the federal government can take to ensure its programs and policies are serving diverse communities that include new Americans."

Among other things, the Task Force will submit an "Integration Plan" to President Obama, which will include an assessment of the members' agencies with respect to integration efforts, and recommendations. The Task Force will also identify and disseminate best practices at the state and local level, collect and disseminate data on immigrant integration, and provide technical assistance.

A letter transmitted by 136 law professors to the White House on November 20, 2014, and updated on November 25, supports President Obama's legal authority to expand the DACA program and to establish the Deferred Action for Parental Accountability (DAPA) program.

President Obama also issued an "immigration blueprint," outlined in "Building a 21st Century Immigration System," which includes additional proposals. * Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com

Immigration Post

December 5, 2014

India Post 39

www.indiapost.com

Things to know about immigration in Michigan DETROIT: President Barack Obama's executive action on immigration may protect millions of people illegally living in the U.S. from deportation, but it doesn't mean the states where they live will provide driver's licenses, instate college tuition or other state services and benefits.

Here's a look at where immigration policies stand in Michigan:

driver's licenses to immigrants illegally living in the U.S. when Obama announced in 2012 that they could apply for temporary work permits if they were brought to the U.S. as children. Johnson changed her mind after the Obama administration clarified the immigrants' legal presence in the country. Civil liberties and immigrants' rights groups also had sued.

DRIVER'S LICENSES Michigan only provides driver's licenses to people who can prove they are legally living or working in the U.S. The state will maintain that policy and rely on

MEDICAID, OTHER STATE SERVICES Immigrants can apply for assistance such as welfare and Medicaid in Michigan if they have held a Green Card for at least five years.

People cheer during the executive action announcement from President Barack Obama during a watch party at legal services center Hermanad Mexicana in Las Vegas.

the ``federal government to tell us who is legally here in the United States and who is not,'' Secretary of State Ruth Johnson's spokeswoman said this week.

Michigan was among a few states that initially resisted giving

The federally issued card reflects legal permanent status, and holders can eventually apply to become U.S. citizens.

Michigan hasn't enacted laws to allow or prohibit in-state tuition rates for immigrants living illegally

in the U.S. But some of the state's 15 public universities, including the University of Michigan, have been able to allow such immigrants to pay in-state tuition. The schools are independent under the Michigan Constitution.

WHO ISAFFECTED Michigan is home to an estimated 75,000 to 150,000 immigrants living in the U.S. illegally, a tiny population compared to states like Texas and California, according to the Migration Policy Institute and other groups that study the issue.

Obama's latest executive order could affect about 35,000 such immigrants in Michigan.

Michigan's largest population of such immigrants are people from Mexico, followed by immigrants from India, in addition to large populations from Iraq and China.

WHAT'S NEXT Gov. Rick Snyder has said he strongly supports legal immigration and stresses the importance of bipartisan efforts to improve the nation's immigration policy. The federal government has approved Snyder's request for Michigan to host only the second center in the U.S. aimed at attracting foreign investors to create jobs and live in the U.S. He also has asked the Obama administration to designate tens of thousands of work visas for Detroit to attract highly skilled, entrepreneurial immigrants.

-PTI

Stateless immigrant desperate to leave US SEATTLE: At a time when millions of immigrants want to stay in the United States, Yury Decyatnik just wants to leave, but can't.

He has been under a final order of removal from the United States for over a decade. In that time, he's been constantly unemployed and lives out of his car.

He's been arrested and wants the U.S. government to deport him.

But the government is unable to remove Decyatnik because he doesn't have a country to take him.

The 54-year-old was born in what is now Ukraine when it was part of the Soviet Union. Ukraine won't provide the travel documents he needs to leave because he wasn't in the country when the Soviet Union broke up, according to a letter from the Ukrainian embassy. The Russians say they'll take him in, as long as he

gets on Russian soil, something he can't do without being deported.

Decyatnik wants to go to Russia because he's got a 6-year-old son there. ``I've got some crazy ideas like

Decyatnik immigrated to the United States before the Soviet bloc broke up. By the end of the 1990s, his marriage was in shambles. going to Alaska and crossing across the Bering Strait,'' Decyatnik said. ``Millions people try get into the U.S., I am trying to get out.''

Andrew Munoz, spokesman for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, said Decyatnick was in the U.S. when the Ukraine declared independence in 1991. ``Therefore the Ukrainian government has refused to issue him a travel document and does not consider him a citizen. As a result, ICE has not been able to effect his removal,'' Munoz said.

Decyatnik immigrated to the United States before the Soviet bloc broke up. By the end of the 1990s, his marriage was in shambles. His ex-wife put a restraining order on him. After getting arrested for violating the restraining order, his green card was revoked and he was sent to immigration detention for 22 months.

In the United States, most stateless immigrants are thought to come from the breakup of the Soviet Union. -AP

Indiana church expects more for immigration help LOGANSPORT, Ind.: A northern Indiana church that's been helping immigrants achieve citizenship is preparing for even more requests for assistance after President Barack Obama's executive order for immigration system changes.

``Sometimes we're helping people cross the finish line'' to citizenship, Szmara said. ``Other times we're helping them get started�

The Bridge Community Church in Logansport started its immigration legal clinic in February, helping clients with the paperwork necessary for citizenship applications.

Church members applied to the program offered by the U.S. Department of Justice's Board of Immigration Appeals because they wanted to assist people through

the ``confusing labyrinth'' of the immigration system, Pastor Zach Szmara told the Pharos-Tribune.

Since opening, the clinic has helped more than 100 people in communities such as Logansport, Noblesville, Delphi, Monticello, Peru and Marion. Szmara said those people are from 14 countries, including India, Burma, the United Kingdom, Kenya and Colombia. ``Sometimes we're helping people cross the finish line'' to citizenship, Szmara said. ``Other times we're helping them get started and other times we're giving them the honest truth.''

Obama's executive action is expected to shield about 5 million people from deportation. The measures would apply to parents of U.S. citizens or of legal permanent residents. Obama also expanded a program designed to extend deportation protections to immigrants who entered the U.S. illegally as children.

Szmara said more volunteers are being sought for the Logansport clinic to help handle more requests from immigrants who might be covered by Obama's orders. -AP

Israel plans new law against illegal immigrants JERUSALEM: The Israeli gov- - a government term for illegal miernment has approved new draft grants, most of them Africans who legislation aimed at curbing illegal slipped across the border from immigration after judges quashed Egypt. an earlier law as repressive, the On September 22, the High interior ministry said.

Court struck down a law which alThe bill, which was unani- lowed the government to detain mously approved by the cabinet, illegal migrants for up to a year must now pass three votes in the without trial. parliament, or Knesset, before It also ordered the closure of passing into law.

But rights groups denounced the move, saying it made a mockery of the High Court's decision and would only offer an interim solution to the question of how to deal with asylum seekers and other illegal immigrants.

The new bill deter- Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (C) arrives to the weekly cabinet meeting in mines that anyone enterJerusalem November 30 ing Israel illegally can be held in Saharonim detention cen- Holot detention centre within 90 tre for up to three months, after days. There are around 2,000 Afriwhich he or she will be moved to can detainees currently being another detention facility called held there out of an estimated Holot for a period of up to 20 48,000 currently living in Israel. months. Both facilities are deep in Exactly a year earlier, the court the southern Negev desert. blocked a similar law allowing miIt also lays out stiffer penalties grants to be held for up to three for those employing "infiltrators" years without trial. -AFP

40 India Post

T

he one-time summer capital of the British, Shimla is a gorgeous hill station in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Located at an average height of 2,200 meters, Shimla is unique with its unparalleled glittering beauty. Set in the midst of impressive hills and dense jungles this hill town has its own charm. Its elegant streets, plummeting torrents and salubrious climate make it a thriving hotspot for honeymooners. Shimla is also the kick off point for the rest of Himachal, with wellknit roads and tourists should also include Manali tour package when in Shimla.

This erstwhile Nepalese state Syamala gained prominence as the most sought after hill station under the auspices of the progressive British officers who had acquired its control in the year 1819. The snow-capped mountains, quaint surroundings and the mighty formations of Victorian style that dot the city, reverberates the colonial texture of the city.

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IT IS NOT JUST THE SUBSTANTIATION OF SOME GRAND MONUMENTS AND COLONIAL ARCHITECTURE THAT SHIMLA OFFERS, IT IS ALSO HOME TO THE MOST PLEASING MEANDERS AND PANORAMIC VIEWS THAT ATTRACT ADVENTURE ENTHUSIASTS AND HONEYMOONERS ALIKE It is not just the substantiation of some grand monuments and colonial architecture that Shimla offers, it is also home to the most pleasing meanders and panoramic views that attract adventure enthusiasts and honeymooners alike.

Like the other Indian cities, fairs and festivals are the

December 5, 2014

highlights of Shimla tourism. The awesome British populations of yesteryears make Christmas a fanfare of the valley. The most significant event in the valley is the Summer Festival organized by the Government in the month of June, which showcases the rich culture and tradition of the Himalayan state. This largest fun fare of the hilly state grabs people with the colorful performances of folk dancers and other activities based on the rich rustic tradition.

In Autumn, Shimla looks gorgeously beautiful and when the days are balmy and dazzling and the night's crunchy and chilly. A typical hilly terrain with a picturesque countryside, wonderful climate and viable social standards, it is quite natural that this hill station has acquired the status of a preferred and much loved picnic spot in India.

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Australia India Business Council welcomes E-visa MELBOURNE: The Indian government's decision to offer evisa facility to international tourists from 43 nations will encourage more businesses to travel to the country and spur growth, Australia India Business Council has said.

"This certainly is a great initiative as it will encourage many more businesses to travel more readily to India which will in the long run contribute to a stronger AustraliaIndia business & trade relationship," AIBC national vice chair Sheba Nandkeolyar said.

Welcoming the new Indian government's decision of offering e-visa facility to international tourists from 43 nations, including Australia, Nandkeolyar said the new move would contribute to "stronger business and trade ties between the two sides."

"We often receive desperate calls from Australian businessmen who request us to help them expe-

dite their business visas to visit India for business purposes," she said.

"E-visas on arrival would make it much easier for businessmen to travel to India," Nandkeolyar said adding that,"AIBC is very pleased with the launch of this new initiative."

She said the new initiative would also open up medical tourism and spur tourists growth for India.

"Truly a very strong message to the world that India is getting rid of complicated ways and embracing more simplified and easier ways in keeping with today's lifestyle," Nandkeolyar said of the decision.

Earlier this week, the government announced the much-awaited electronic-visa system for visitors from 43 countries, including the US, Australia, Brazil, Germany, Japan and Russia.

A tourist from these countries

Visa-on-arrival facility for Goa too PANAJI: The Centre has extended the visa-on-arrival facility at the Goa airport for tourists from 43 countries, which is expected to bring in 15 per cent growth in tourism during the ongoing season.

Goa's Dabolim airport is among one of the nine places that have extended this facility, which will further improve the prospects of its tourism growth, state tourism minister Dilip Parulekar told reporters here.

The cities where VoA (visa-onarrival) will be issued include

Oman, Palau, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Russia, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Thailand, Tonga, Tuvalu, UAE, Ukraine, USA, Vanuatu and Vietnam, he said.

The single-entry tourist visa will be valid for 30 days, the minister said.

The state government had been pursuing the issue of VoA and evisa with the Central government for over two years, he said.

Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram.

The countries included in the list are: Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Cook Islands, Djibouti, Fiji, Finland, Germany, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kiribati, Laos, Luxembourg, Marshal Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Myanmar, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue Island, Norway,

"We are very happy to announce that the facilities have finally been launched and extended to 43 countries," Parulekar said.

"This facility will enable tourists from the 43 countries enlisted for the benefit to apply and procure the visa within 96 hours with a validity of 30 days, which is extendable subject to approval from the respective embassies," he said. -PTI

Home Minister Rajnath Singh (right) with Minister of State for Tourism & Culture, Mahesh Sharma, at the launch of the tourist visa on arrival enabled

by Electronic Travel Authorisation in New Delhi on November 27

would now be able to apply for an e-visa through the designated

website and pay the fee online to get an Electronic Travel Authori-

zation (ETA) within 72 hours.

The facility will be available initially at nine airports - Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Kochi, Thiruvanthapuram, Hyderabad and Goa. The addition of 43 countries is the first phase of the roll out and more countries will soon be added.

E-visa will be valid for 30 days and a tourist can avail the facility twice a year.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his recent visit to Australia also signed an agreement on promoting tourism with his Australian counterpart Tony Abbott.

Modi had further sought Australian investment in the tourism sector, especially cruise tourism. PTI

42

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SHIMLA BADAMI

Most sought after picturesque hill station Cont’d from page 40

PLACES TO SEE Christ Church: One of the oldest churches in North India, Christ Church was built by the British in 1857 to serve the large Anglican British community in the area. Built in the Neo-Gothic style of architecture, Christ Church is one of the long lasting legacies of British rule in India and is one of Shimla's most recognized landmarks.

Jakhoo Temple: It is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Located on Jakhoo Hill, 2.5 km from the Ridge, the Jakhoo Temple offers beautiful views of the Shivalik Mountains and the nearby town of Sanjauli.

The Ridge: The Ridge of Shimla is a large open spacious platform from where you can have a panoramic view of the mountain peaks of Shimla. The snow capped mountain ranges engulfed in the beauty of the nature is a phenomenal view that the Ridge of Shimla offers to the crowd.

Shimla State Museum: The Shimla State Museum houses a huge collection of magnificent paintings, sculptures, coins,

handicrafts, photos, etc of not only the state of Himachal Pradesh but outside too. The state museum is a major attraction of the Mall area

of Shimla built in the style of colonial edifice with sprawling lawns all around. This museum was inaugurated in 1974.

Himachal State Museum: A colonial building laid out in a spacious lawn, this museum

lometers from Shimla. It is accessible by rail, bus and car.

Summer Hill: Located 5 km from the Ridge it is a beautiful little township. Sitting

meters from Shimla. It has India's oldest nine hole golf course laid out by Lord Curzon during the era of the British Raj. Chail: Chail is situated at a distance of 45 kilometers from Shimla city. It has the unique distinction of having the highest cricket pitch in the world. The twinkling lights of Shimla from Chail is a memorable sight.

Kufri: Kufri is a winter sports capital at an altitude of 2622 meters.

Skiing is the favorite sport here. It takes approximately one hour to drive to Kufri from Shimla city

is located on the Mall Road and is home to an excellent collection of

coins, photographs and local handicrafts.

The Mall: This is the main shopping area in Shimla and has many restaurants, shops, offices and post offices.

Tara Devi Temple: Tara Devi Temple is situated at a height of 1851 meters above sea level, 11 ki-

at an altitude of 5600 feet on the Shimla-Kalka railway line, this is where Mahatma Gandhi used to stay when he used to visit Shimla.

This is also where the Himachal Pradesh University is situated.

Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex: One of the most historic places in Shimla, the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex is 122 years old and has been recently been reopened to the public. The theatre is built in a Gothic Victorial style and is an important centre for various cultural and literary events.

Sankat Mochan: This temple is

located 7 kilometers from Shimla at an altitude of 1851 meters. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman- a god of the Hindu Pantheon.

Naldehra: Naldehra is 23 kilo-

BEST TIME TO VISIT Shimla is beautiful throughout the year and can be visited in any month. However, September to June are the best months.

Cont’d on page 43

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PM stresses tourism for development of Manipur IMPHAL: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stressed the need to augment road connectivity and other infrastructure in Manipur so that tourism could flourish in the state and bring de-

needed road connectivity and other communication infrastructure system should be developed so that tourists were able to travel to the state.

He said north eastern states

gious connection but because it was developed, the Prime Minister said in his 15-minute speech.

Likewise, the north eastern region, which is full of natural beauties, could be developed, said Modi, who was the chief guest of the 'Sangai Manipur Tourism Festival' here. ' S a n g a i Manipur Tourism Festival', the biggest tourism festival in the state, is named after 'Sangai', the brow-antlered deer, available only in Keibul Lamjao National Park in Manipur's Bishenpur district.

Besides tourism, the Prime Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing the closing function of Manipur Sangai Minister also Festival-2014, in Imphal on November 30 mentioned the role of sports in velopment along with it. were an 'enchanting' place and all the development of the state.

Addressing a mammoth gath- efforts should be made to develop Stating that a sports university ering at the concluding day of the region. would be set up in Manipur, he 'Sangai Manipur Tourism FestiDwarka in Gujarat was liked by said the state's youth has lots of val' here, Modi said the state tourists not because of its reli- talent in various sports.-PTI

Gujarat tourism corporation opens office in UP LUCKNOW: In a bid to attract tourists from Uttar Pradesh to Gujarat, the tourism corporation of the western state has opened an office here.

The office of Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL) was inaugurated by its Chairman Kamlesh Patel.

"We will continue to aggressively market Gujarat as a tourist destination in India as well as abroad. To further strengthen our efforts in this direction, we have introduced a public-private partnership model whereby tour operators, both from within and outside Gujarat, can register with TCGL through its

website," Patel said.

"The private operators can now also showcase their packages on the Gujarat Tourism website, which will be offered to the tourists visiting Gujarat," he added.

He said the Gujarat government is strongly committed to promoting tourism and providing better facilities to the visitors.

"Major development has been done to provide better facilities for stay and sightseeing at all those destinations which have been major attractions of the 'Khushboo Gujarat Ki' campaign like Ahmedabad, Sasan Gir, Dwarka, Somnath and Saputara," Patel said. -PTI

SHIMLA

New Zealand offers free visas to Indians MUMBAI: Expecting a windfall in tourist traffic from the country for the forthcoming Cricket World Cup early next year, Tourism New Zealand has said it would offer free visas-on-arrival to Indians flying down to watch the tournament if they hold Australian visas.

"We will offer free visas-on-arrival to Indians traveling down to our country if they hold Australian visas," Tourism New Zealand country Manager for India Neha Bhola said here over the weekend, while announcing a tie-up with the Centrum Group to process visas for the World Cup as cricket fever has catches up in the sub-continent.

Centrum Group, a leading integrated financial and travel services provider, through its travel subsidiary Club 7 Holidays, has been appointed as one of the official visa processing agencies for the World Cop period, Bhola said.

Other agencies appointed include Thomas Cook as well as Cox & Kings.

To promote travel, Tourism New Zealand has also entered into a cooperative campaign initiative with

Centrum, targeting a large number of high net-worth individuals and corporate clients.

Accordingly, Centrum has already held road shows in Bangalore earlier this month and in Mumbai over the weekend.

"We have been in the business of creating wealth for our clients

and managing and through our travel entities, offering them some interesting options to spend money wisely and rejuvenate. Our cooperation with Tourism New Zealand works well as it is in line with their market objectives as well," Centrum Group Managing Director Rajnish Bahl told PTI. New Zealand is co-hosting the

World Cup with Australia beginning next February and March.

The event is expected to give a major fillip to the tourist influx to these countries from India where cricket is a religion.

From September 2013 to September 2014, New Zealand recorded 35,000 Indian arrivals, up 17 per cent.

Earlier this month, Tourism New Zealand general manager for Asia David Craig had told PTI he expected a 33 per cent jump in Indians visiting his country for ICC Cup. "Last year (July 2013-June 2014) we had about 30,000 Indian visitors and we expect about 40,000 visitors this fiscal ending June next," Craig said.

"The World Cup will improve our profile as a tourism destination. For the tournament, we expect 5,000-10,000 if India does well".-PTI

Cont’d from page 42

HOW TO REACH

By Train: Shimla has a meter gauge railway station. It connects to the nearest broad gauge station at Kalka, which is at a distance of 89 km from Shilmla. Kalka has good connectivity from Chandigarh, Ambala, Delhi, Mumbai and

Kolkata.

By Air: Shimla's Jubbarhatti Airport is nearly 25 km away from the heart of the city.

By Bus: HPRTC buses offer bus connectivity from all cities in Himachal Pradesh to Shimla. Frequent ordinary and deluxe bus services are available from Delhi to Shimla.

Tech News Country's largest blast furnace at IISCO KOLKATA: The largest blast furnace in India was blown-in at SAIL's IISCO Steel Plant at Burnpur.

The state-of-the-art furnace named Kalyani, blown-in at midnight in presence of chairman C S Verma, has a useful volume of 4160 cubic meter and has now become the biggest operating blast furnace in the country, SAIL said in a statement.

Prior to this, the largest Blast Furnace of the country was installed by Sail at its Rourkela Steel Plant in 2013 having a useful volume of 4060 cubic meter.

"With this, IISCO Steel Plant is firmly on course to regain its glorious past," Verma said.

The furnace is part of the massive modernization and expansion work in Burnpur for the installation of a state of the art 2.5 million tons per annum steel plant. -PTI

Pact with US for agriculture, food security NEW DELHI: India has entered into an agreement with the United States for cooperation in the field of agriculture and food security, Lok Sabha was informed.

Minister of State for Agriculture Sanjeev Kumar Balyan said the scope of areas of cooperation included in the MoU were science, technology, education, weather forecasting technology for crop management and market information.

Farm-market linkages and private investment in agriculture, food security cooperation and nutrition are other areas where India and the US will cooperate with each other as per the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2010, Balyan said during Question Hour. He said India has entered into 77 MoUs or agreements with 63 countries in the field of agriculture. -PTI

EU may lift ban on import of Indian mangoes NEW DELHI: The European Union is likely to lift the ban on import of mangoes and other vegetables from India this month, according to a senior government official.

In April this year, the 28-member European Union had temporarily banned the import of Alphonso mangoes and four vegetables from India from May 1.-PTI.

TechBiz 44 India Post

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December 5, 2014

Gujarat studying tax structure of e-com cos AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat government is studying tax structure as well as the business model of e-commerce portals to find out possible loopholes which might be giving them an edge over retailers in terms of pricing of products.

"At present, we are studying the taxation structure applicable to such e-commerce portals in Gujarat, especially when they are selling articles at such a low price.

"We have to find out if there exist any loopholes in the tax structure which is benefiting them," state Finance Minister Saurabh Patel said here.

To a query whether the state government is planning to impose a separate tax on such firms doing business in Gujarat, Patel did not rule out the possibility.-PTI

Defending status quo, Rajan says don't want flip-flop in policy MUMBAI: RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan has defended status quo in the monetary policy saying that he does not want to "flip-flop" on it and is looking for "certainty" on various factors, mainly inflation, before lowering the key interest rate.

Rajan also announced progress in talks with the government on the adoption of a monetary policy framework, saying the inflation target for January 2016 and beyond has been set at 4 per cent, plus or minus 2 per cent.

"We have to make sure that the (disinflation) process is well underway. We have had a couple of months (of low inflation) after five years of high inflation. We want to make sure that this is for real especially because we don't intend to flip-flop," Rajan told reporters at the post-policy media briefing after the 5th bi-monthly monetary policy, wherein he left all policy rates unchanged.

"The Reserve Bank wants to get more certainty about the pace of

inflation movement before changing its stance," he said.

Rajan reiterated that the desire is to have a linear movement once RBI shifts its policy stance to be-

tain inflation at 6 per cent by January 2016, said disinflation process is underway and factors like the fall in global crude prices are positive for the country that imports

RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan

ing accommodative, adding that the central bank does not want one policy to offer a cut and the next to raise the rates.

Rajan, who is targeting to con-

over 80 per cent of its fuel requirements.

The consumer price inflation fell for the 5th consecutive month to 5.52 per cent in October, driven

Modi getting rock star treatment from investors WASHINGTON: With money managers pouring in a whopping USD 16.5 billion in Indian stocks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is being treated like a rock star by investors around the world, a leading American financial daily has said.

"Investors around the world are giving Modi, and India, the rock star treatment. Money managers have poured USD 16.5 billion into Indian stocks this year, the most of any developing country tracked by the Institute of International Finance," The Wall Street Journal has reported.

Noting that India's S&P BSE Sensex has soared 35 per cent this

Prime Minister Narendra Modi

year, closing at a record 54 times in 2014, the daily said investors are betting that Modi will intro-

duce policies to jump-start India's economy, boosting profits at companies ranging from banks to cement makers.

The paper said economists predict India will expand at a faster rate this year, the only one of the BRIC countries which include Brazil, Russia and China - expected to accelerate.

The International Monetary Fund expects growth in India to reach 6.4 per cent next year, from 5.6 per cent this year, it said.

For money managers who have to invest billions on behalf of large institutions, India may be one of the last developing economies of its size that can offer steady, highflying returns, the daily said. -PTI

largely by base effects, while whole price index touched a five-year low of 1.8 per cent in the same month.

However, Rajan said: "A change in the monetary policy stance at the current juncture is premature. However, if the current inflation momentum and changes in inflationary expectations continue, and fiscal developments are encouraging, a change in the monetary policy stance is likely early next year, including outside the policy review cycle."

On the new monetary policy framework, which would involve setting of a formal inflation target and accountability to deliver on the same, Rajan said talks with the government have progressed well and the details will be announced soon.

"The government has indicated that it is comfortable in setting a target of 4 per cent, plus or minus 2 per cent, as suggested by a number of committees, including the Urjit Patel committee for inflation beyond 2016," he said. -PTI

Core sector growth jumps to 4-month high NEW DELHI: The growth rate of eight of core industries rose to four-month high of 6.3 per cent in October on the back of better output in coal, refinery products and electricity.

The eight core industries - coal, crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, fertilizer, steel, cement and electricity - had shrunk by 0.1 per cent in October last year.

The growth rate was 1.9 per cent in September this year.

The core sector contributes 38 per cent in the overall industrial production, a parameter that RBI takes into account while framing its monetary policy.

Production in coal, refinery products and electricity registered a growth of 16.2 per cent, 4.2 per cent and 13.2 per cent, respectively in October, as per the data released by the Commerce and Industry Ministry.-PTI

TechBiz Post

December 5, 2014

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Only 48% of Indians have access to bank a/c NEW DELHI: Only 48 per cent of Indian adults have bank accounts and nearly half of them lie dormant, says a report.

According to a nation-wide survey on financial behavior, India has the highest account dormancy rate even more than countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

The survey compiled by the Financial Inclusion Insights program, operated by global strategic research consultancy InterMedia and supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, noted the majority of Indians borrow money from family and friends and not from financial institutions.

"While 48 per cent of Indian adults have access to a bank account, the highest rate of the seven

countries, 47 per cent of Indian accounts lie dormant," the survey said, adding that fewer than a quarter of account users use advance

Need to encourage M&As for business size: Jaitley NEW DELHI: Mergers and acquisitions have to be encouraged to promote the size of domestic companies but there is also a need to understand when to draw the red line while implementing the competition law, Corporate Affairs Minister Arun Jaitley has said.

Jaitley was inaugurating the International Competition Network (ICN) Merger workshop here,

Arun Jaitley

organized by CCI. He also underlined the need for applying the "principle of proportionality" while taking into consideration the consequences of competition norms.

"People learn from global experience. When our own corporates are of moderate size, mergers, acquisitions and consolidation need to be encouraged to promote size. So when it is that we draw the red line (in implementing competition law)," Jaitley

said.

According to him, Competition Commission of India (CCI) is becoming "extremely mature".

M&As involving significant business activities and those meeting a certain threshold under competition norms are required to get clearance from CCI. "Another issue, what are the kind of consequences and penalties that we impose in the larger implementation of the law.

Do we look at the evil sought to b e curbed (or) the capacity of our o w n economy a n d therefore apply the principle of proportionality," the minister said.

Emphasizing that people learn from global experiences, Jaitley said "jurisdiction" is emerging with regard to common turf issues on account of multiple regulators.

"If two telecom majors are to amalgamate, will there be common turf areas between the telecom regulator and market regulator CCI. Therefore how do you build the jurisdiction of the

banking services, while only 0.3 per cent use mobile money services.

India has the lowest proportion

of adults who are aware of or have ever used mobile money, it said.

Moreover, the gender gap in the use of bank services is also substantial in India (17 per cent). The widest relative gender gap is in Pakistan.

"This study challenges the notion that financial inclusion is merely a matter of opening bank accounts," Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Director, India Country Office Girindre Beeharry said.

Beeharry further said that the findings will hopefully mobilize further innovation in the sector and promote the potential of digital technology in ensuring that all Indians have an access to financial services.

"We hope that the information contained in this study will enable policy makers, regulators and

bankers to identify priorities to improve financial inclusion, design initiatives to push the inclusion agenda, and most importantly, measure the progress made," InterMedia's Research Manager for India Gayatri Murthy said.

The survey is based on interviews with 45,024 Indians aged 15 years and above and evaluates access and use of formal financial services, mobile devices, mobile money services, as well as barriers and potential for future use.

The Centre has already launched a financial inclusion scheme "Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana" under which bank accounts will be opened for 15 crore people with an overdraft facility of Rs 5,000 and accident insurance of Rs 1 lakh. -PTI

Sukaran Singh new MD of Tata Advanced Systems NEW DELHI: Tata group has appointed Sukaran Singh as new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of its aerospace and defense business.

Singh, who will head Tata Advanced Systems Ltd (TASL),

companies in the private sector here and acts as both an operating company and a holding company for its joint ventures with companies such as Lockheed Martin and Sikorsky.

TASL's business scope includes aerospace, missiles, radars, unmanned systems, command and control, optronics and homeland security.

It has partnership with global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) including Sikorsky, Lockheed Martin, Pilatus Aircraft, Cobham Mission Equipment and RUAG Aviation for their global requirements.

The Tata group has identified aerospace and defense as a focus area. -PTI

Sukaran Singh

joined the Tata group in 2003, and was a Director of TASL. The appointment comes just weeks after it teamed up with Airbus Defense and Space, a division of Airbus Group, to bid for Indian Air Force's multicrore transport aircraft replacement program.

Singh has led a range of new business opportunity development that required leveraging cross-linkages between multiple Tata companies in new geographies and new industries, among them aerospace and defense, sources in Tata said.

TASL in one of the largest Indian defense and aerospace

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December 5, 2014

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Celkon launches Windows smartphone HYDERABAD: Celkon Mobiles, a city-based mobile handset manufacturer and wireless solutions provider, has launched Celkon Win 400, one of the country's cheapest Windows smartphone, with a price tag of Rs 4,979.

Murali Retineni, executive director of Celkon Mobiles, said 'Win 400', the first Windows phone from Celkon's stable, runs on Windows Phone 8.1 operating system (OS).

"Our plan is to bring more smartphones on the Windows platform. The next in line will be a 5inch Windows phone, which is currently in the testing stage," Retineni announced at

a press conference.

Celkon currently enjoys a 4 per cent share in the Indian smartphones market and is aiming at taking this to between 7 per cent and 8 per cent by March 2015, he added.

Rajiv Ahlawat, director (mobility), Microsoft India said 'Win 400' would be their most affordable offering.

"We would like to develop a larger portfolio of Windows phones in association with Celkon," he said.

Ahlawat said Microsoft is aiming to develop with its partners an ecosystem in India which would place it in a much bigger position in the next six to 12 months. -PTI

India to be biggest market for OnePlus NEW DELHI: Bullish on the multi-billion dollar opportunity in the Indian smartphone segment, Chinese handset maker OnePlus has said it expects India to become its biggest market in the next few months.

At present, China is the biggest

and Amazon.in.

The two platforms have been integrated so that invites can be used to purchase the device exclusively on eCommerce major, Amazon.in.

"We will bring in as many devices as possible in sync with our

ing team in Bangalore in the next few months.

OnePlus One sports a 2.5GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 processor, 5.5-inch display, 3GB RAM, 64GB memory, 13MP rear and 5MP front camera, 3,100 mAh battery, 4G support and NFC. It runs CyanogenMod 11S, a custom aftermarket version of Android, developed by Cyanogen.

OnePlus is developing its own version of Android Lollipop-based OS (the latest version), which will be released for Indian users next month. A final build of the OS will be released in February next year.

The company has partnered with HCL Care to offer after- sales service across 20 cities in India.

India, which is one of the fastest growing smartphone One Plus CEO Pete Lay and Country Manager & VP of Amazon India Amit Agarwal markets globally, is also one during the launch One Plus One smartphone in New Delhi on December 2 of the most lucrative opportunities that handset makers market for OnePlus, which an- production capacity. Cumulatively, are vying for. nounced its foray into India with till mid-October, we have already In the last few months, new the launch of its 'One' smartphone sold 500,000 devices (globally)," players like Xiaomi, Oppo and at Rs 21,999. he added.

Jolla have entered the Indian mar"In the next few months, we This is the first time that ket to challenge established playexpect India to be our biggest mar- OnePlus has entered a new mar- ers like Samsung, Micromax and ket, it will overtake China," ket with local presence and col- Nokia (now Microsoft Devices).

OnePlus India General Manager laboration with a local partner.

According to IDC, about 44 Vikas Agarwal said.

It has set up a local team in In- million smartphones were sold last In line with its global practice, dia, led by Agarwal, for marketing year. For 2014, it expects the numusers in India will receive India- and sales. The Chinese startup is ber to cross 80.57 million units. specific invites through OnePlus also putting together an engineer- PTI

Australia thinktank appoints PIO as Director MELBOURNE: A prominent In- grams, AII is building Australia's dian-origin accountant has been capacity to understand India. appointed as Executive Director Varghese has an outstanding for Business Development at an track record in both the public and influential think-tank in Australia private sector, running multifacfor spearheading business rap- eted businesses with a determined port between two countries. focus and ability to deliver excelJim Varghese has been ap- lent and innovative results. pointed as Executive Director of He has been awarded the CenBusiness Development at Austra- tenary Medal for services to the lia-India Institute (AII), a leading Public Sector and in 2009 was centre for the study of India.

"The recent visit of ‘The recent visit of Prime Prime Minister Narendra Modi repre- Minister Narendra Modi sented a game changing represented a game moment in the Australia-India relationship changing moment in the especially in enhancing Australia-India relationship’ the productive and pragmatic business relationships between the coun- awarded an Order of Australia for tries," said a statement issued by Services to Public Sector Reform AII. and Services to the Community.

"This is yet another step by the The University of Melbourne AII to become the leading hub for established the AII in October business development dialogue, 2008, which is a hub for dialogue, research and corporate partner- research and partnerships beships between India and Austra- tween India and Australia. lia," it said.

AII is also set to open up anThrough its teaching, research, other chapter in New Delhi next public policy and outreach pro- year. -PTI

Lower oil prices will boost global economy: IMF chief WASHINGTON: The recent decline in oil prices will help boost global economy, IMF chief Christine Lagarde has said, as global oil prices have tumbled to multi year low.

"It is good news for the global economy," Lagarde said at The Wall Street Journal CEO Council annual meeting here.

For the United States, low energy prices would help accelerate the economic growth to a 3.5 per cent next year from the October forecast of 3.1 per cent, she said, adding that Europe is also expected to benefit from lower oil prices.

Lagarde, however, noted that the Eurozone also faces a risk of the "new mediocre," and described it as an economy marked by slow growth, low inflation and high unemployment.

But at the same time, she asserted that reluctant political leaders need to adopt more jobfriendly labor market reforms, aggressive and innovative monetary policy and other structural re-

forms.

"Where they are at the moment they need to use all available tools.

They have to get on with it and do it," Lagarde said.

During the meeting, the International Monetary Fund Managing Director was highly critical of Japan for being slow on implementation of fiscal and labor market reforms.

On Russia, Lagarde said lower prices are adding to their fragility and their vulnerability.

Oil prices tumbled to multi year lows last week after the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries decided to maintain its production quotas, rather than lowering its output target.

Crude oil has fallen about 40 per cent since mid June.-PTI

Datebook

December 5, 2014

NEW JERSEY Upcoming Sat, Dec 6 • IFMP Annual Cultural Show 2014 Venue: West Windsor Plainsboro High School North, 90 Grovers Mill Road, Plainsboro, NJ 08536 Time: 3:00 pm

Sat, Dec 13 • NAMAM Excellence Award Night

NEW YORK Upcoming Fri, Dec 5 • December Madness Venue: Mixx Lounge, 160 Adams Ave, Hauppauge, NY 11788 Time: 10:00 pm Contact: 516-336-9042

Fri, Dec 5 • Basement Bhangra meets QUE BAJO?!

Venue: Deewan Banquet Hall, 560 Stelton Rd, Piscataway Township, NJ 08854 Time: 5:00 pm

Venue: Baby's Alright, 146 Broadway, NY 11211 Time : 7:00 pm Contact: 718-207-0058

Sat, Dec 13

Wed, Dec 31

• Adi Sakthi Venue: East Brunswick High School Auditorium, 380 Cranbury Rd, East Brunswick, NJ 08816 Time : 04:00 pm Contact: 732-801-4814

• Harry Malhotras New Year Eve Masquerade Ball 2015 Venue: Antuns by Minar, 244 W Old Country Rd, Hicksville, NY 11801 Time : 08:00 pm Contact: 917-325-4903

India Post 47

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NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Upcoming

Upcoming

Nov 9, 16, 23, 30 • Vivekananda Vedanta Society Chicago

Sun, Dec 7 • Carnatic Vocal Concert By Smt Hema Sista

Swami Ishatmananda: Why We Should Meditate: Yoga Aphorisms Tuesdays: Swami Ishatmananda Fridays: Swami Varadananda Venue: 14630 Lemont Road Homer Glen, IL 60491 Time: 7:30 pm Shivanama Sankirtan Time: 06:30pm Contact : chicagovedanta.org

Sat, Nov 29 • Dashavatar - The Ten Incarnations of Vishnu

Venue: Bellflower Civic Center, 16600 Civic Center Dr, Bellflower, CA 90706 Timet: 4:00 pm Contact: 562-746-1945

Sat, Nov 29 • Raaga Rang - Fusion Music Concert by Pandith Praveen Godkhindi Venue: Cabrillo High School Auditorium, 2001 Santa Fe Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90810 Time: 04:30 pm Contact: (510) 402-4633

Wed, Dec 13 • Hollywood Bhangra - Xmas

Bhangra Theme Party - Last One of 2014

Venue: Metropolitan, 652 N La Peer Dr, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Timet: 10:00 pm

Wed, Dec 31 • PREETYSHA & SAMEER - New Years Bash 2015

Venue: Anaheim Plaza Hotel & Suites, 1700 S.Harbor Blvd, Anaheim, CA 92802 Time :07:00 pm Contact: 714-397-7224

Venue: Rancho Rinconada Parks and Recreation, 18000 Chelmsford Dr, Cupertino, CA 95014 Time: 4:15 pm.

Contact: 408-569-0860

Wec, Dec 31 • BATA Membership Venue: Bay Area Telugu Association,

ILLINOIS Upcoming • J K Yog Satsang and Bal Mukund Hindi Classes are held every 2nd and 4rth Sunday of Month Chicago Satsang Information: J K Yog, Chicago - Swami Mukundananda Venue: Clarion Inn/Waterford Banquets, Board Room, 933 South Riverside Drive, Elmhurst, IL 60126 Time: 3:30pm-5:30pm Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630-561-4807 Website: www.jkyog.org

39120 Argonaut Way, Fremont, CA 94538 Time: 11:50 pm Contact: 408-242-5111

ATLANTA Upcoming Wed, Dec 31 • Welcome 2015 New year Bash Venue: Adora Hall, 12200 N Mopac Expy, Austin, TX 78758 Time: 07:00 pm Contact: 512-351-3108

Fri, Dec 5 • 11 th Annual Boston Bhangra Competition Venue: Orpheum Theatre, 1 Hamilton Pl, Boston, MA 02108 Time: 6:00 pm Contact: 617-448-25088

Sat, Dec 6 • Maadhurya - A Grand Evening of Dance and Music Venue: Ashland High School, 65 East Union Street, Ashland, MA 01721 Time: 3:30 am Contact: 978-206-1486

1st and 3rd Sunday of Month • Chicago Children's Bal Mukund Character Building Program and Hindi Literacy Classes Venue: Vogelei Center, 650 W. Higgins Road, Hoffmann Estates, IL 60192 (Next to Nissan Dealership) Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630-561-4807

Mondays and Fridays • Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes Metropolitan Asian Family Services Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL, Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Contact: 773-465-3105

Mondays and Fridays • Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes Where: Metropolitan Asian Family Services Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL, Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Contact: 773-465-3105

48

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December 5, 2014

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Horoscope

December 5, 2014

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Your Weekly Future

by Pandit Parashar

December 5th- December 11th, 2014 (March 21 to April 20)

V

enus in ninth will bring more opportunities to make money easy way.

Some of you may also get some kind of bonus from work. Trip is coming close and every one will be excited. People in retail business will have great sales. You will receive full help and support from close family member. It will be a good idea to dispose off those money making stocks.

(April 21 to May 20)

S

ome one lose will try to take undue advantage by making a unreasonable demand. Suddenly you may experience little bumpy road in life. You may do some work in or around your property.

It will be better to seek opinion from an experienced person before making any serious move in career.

(May 21 to June 20)

O

bstacles will be huge but with little diplomacy and patience you can come out of situation. You may meet an interesting person during the course of a trip or a party. Kids will plan a small vacation. People in business will continue to gain an edge over their opponents with new products. Some of you may also file an application to buy a franchise.

(June 21 to July 22)

P

lanets are very favorable, so make your move.

Any change in career at this point will be lucky. There is no harm in trying your hand with couple of lottery tickets this week. Some of you may also dispose off money making stocks and wait. Health will keep improving at fast pace. You will plan a small trip with children.

(July 23 to August 22)

(November 23 to December 22)

F

avorable Mars and Jupiter will help you achieve all goals, big or small without much efforts. People in business will see sales shooting up and receive big contracts. You may also finalize a small vacation in upcoming holidays. Some of you may purchase or replace one of your vehicle with another luxury model this week.

(August 23 to September 22)

T

ry to eat on time and have proper food. Your actions will reflect determination and courage. Results will be almost instant. Money wise another favorable week. Presence of Venus in fourth will make you enjoy life to maximum. You may attend a big party and may also buy some expensive item for the house this week.

(September 23 to October 22)

L

oan application will be approved. New contracts will be profitable open new doors for fast income. Do not hesitate to buy few lottery tickets this week. You may add another luxury car to existing fleet.

Bachelors may start talking to a very like minded person. Money will go on children and towards an upcoming trip.

(October 23 to November 22)

R

eports will be contradictory but planets will help you take the correct decision. Your actions will reflect confidence and courage.

People in business will do a lot better and couple of deals will get much needed extra cash. Some money will go towards an upcoming trip.

Try to handle tools with care and life things carefully.

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

He can be reached at: parashar@parashar.com

V

enus in first will keep you cheerful and you will get to enjoy this week with family and old friends. Some of you may be busy preparing for an upcoming trip and doing some last minute shopping for people overseas. You may also gather the necessary paper work and file for a big loan. Avoid hot and spicy food if possible.

(December 22 to January 19)

M

oney will go on enjoying life with family.

Spouse if employed, will get a raise or bonus. You may also make commitment to attend a big event towards the end of month. You should not ignore the offer but get changes made as per your convenience. Running around will help loose weight.

(January 20 to February 18)

Y

ou will be relaxed and try to finish work in hand in order to start getting ready for the short vacation. People in business will be looking for additional help as foot traffic will escalate. You may spend an evening with some well known people. You may also make final payment on an old debt. Stocks and other speculation will be profitable.

(February 19 to March 20)

Y

ou may make some plans with a colleague from work.

You will be very lucky when it comes to money and all deals will go through. You may also write one check to government in shape of taxes. Your actions and past deeds will make you popular in society. A close friend will call to seek your advise whether to accept an offer he received recently.

510-886-4370 www.parashar.com

50 India Post

December 5, 2014

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Saif Ali Khan with Rahul Nath

India Post News Service

U

K born and Hollywood, Cali fornia based actor-directorchoreographer Rahul Nath has made a mark in Bollywood with his portrayal of Gary in the Saif Ali Khan-Govinda-Ileana D'Cruz-Kalki Koechlin starrer 'Happy Ending.' And, now he has signed Todd Kessler's film 'Scandalous,' which also features Kabir Bedi.

Rahul has been receiving a lot of appreciation by film critics for his performance of Gary in the film. "Rahul does great justice to the role of Gary," said Komal Natha in a review. And, Anish Mohanty wrote "Rahul Nath with his accent and mannerisms is very funny."

"It has been an incredible journey and I don't think I could have asked for a better Bollywood debut," said Rahul Nath in a media statement. "The whole team of 'Happy Ending was a delight to work with.

The directors Raj and DK really made me feel so comfortable on set that I never felt any pressure. Obviously when you are working with such an established star cast you feel some nerves but again all the cast put me at ease.

"Working with Saif was like I was working with one of my friends, he likes to joke

around and create a happy and relaxed environment, and with Govinda he is just the ultimate comedian, on and off screen. I laughed so much with him during our schedule in Bangkok. With Ileana as well we had many scenes together and I was a fan of hers since her Poikri days."

Rahul is currently in talks with several feature and ad film directors in Mumbai regarding future projects, and is also busy in film festival circuits with his own directorial feature 'Khazana' which deals with the sensitive subject of a newly married woman who takes revenge on those who have abused her.

Rahul has been the face of several leading brands internationally including State Farm Insurance, Nintendo, Virgin America, Jack in the Box, TravelZoo and Intel.

Rahul has been receiving a lot of appreciation by film critics for his performance of Gary in the film. "Rahul does great justice to the role of Gary," said Komal Natha in a review. And, Anish Mohanty wrote "Rahul Nath with his accent and mannerisms is very funny."

Ileana D'Cruz with Rahul Nath

India Post 51

December 5, 2014 www.indiapost.com

Randeep horsing around in Abu Dhabi India Post News Service

ity (TCA Abu Dhabi), called in at Al Ameri's Rahal Ranch for a spot of one-on-one tuition with the heralded Emirati horsemaster and problem horse fixer, before the actor, who's also a professional polo player and show jumper, put his new skills to the test in Abu Dhabi's sweeping desert.

"Ali and the horses were unbelievable," said Hooda, who describes riding as his passion. "The control Ali had over his stallions was amazing - they responded to everything he did. Despite riding from an early age and also com-

ABU DHABI: Bollywood star and horse-lover Randeep Hooda had an Emirati-themed equestrian adventure when he witnessed the remarkable skills of Abu Dhabi's world-renowned horsemaster Ali Al Ameri - a man known in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as 'The horse whisperer'.

Hooda, who was visiting the UAE capital for the season finale Formula1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix as a guest of Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Author-

Comedian Deven Varma passes away PUNE: Veteran actor Deven Varma, best known for his comic roles in 'Khatta Meetha' and 'Angoor', passed away here following a heart attack, family sources said.

Varma, 78, breathed his last at a city hospital. He is survived by his wife Rupa Ganguly.

In a career spanning many decades, Varma brought to Hindi cinema a touch of subtle humor that could be shared by a family audience.

Starting with 'Dharmaputra' (1961) produced B R Chopra, Varma starred in over 100 films winning critical acclaim for many that included 'Angoor', 'Chori Mera Kaam', 'Devar', 'Anupama', 'Golmaal', 'Buddha Mil Gaya', 'Khatta Mitha', 'Naastik', 'Rang Birangi', 'Dil', 'Judaai', 'Andaz Apna Apna' and 'Dil Toh Pagal Hai'.

His dual role of Bahadur in Gulzar's 1982 film 'Angoor' is considered as one of the most loved comic roles in Hindi cinema.

Varma, who was married to Ashok Kumar's daughter Rupa, turned producer with 'Yakeen' in 1969 and also took to direction two years later with 'Nadaan'.

'Besharam' is also notable among the nearly eight films produced

by him.

He acted in three Marathi films and a Gujarati movie.

A man of convictions, Varma never compromised on his principles and kept away from what he considered cheap comedy.

His last performances were in 'Mere Yaar ki Shaadi Hai' and 'Calcutta Mail', a decade ago af-

ter which he retired.

The last rites of the eminent actor were performed here in the absence of any big names from Bollywood.

Several Bollywood celebrities like Aamir Khan, Karan Johar, Anushka Sharma, Riteish Deshmukh and Manoj Bajpayee mourned Varma's demise. -PTI

Deven Varma

petitively, I was a little nervous at first as this was a leap into the unknown, but once Ali showed me all the cues it was totally different and the horses did everything I asked.

"He was getting the horse to sit on its hind legs, stick its tongue out, circle round me and rear up. It was a magical sensation to have so much control over Tayeb - he was so beautiful, gentle and wellbehaved. It was an amazing experience."

Hooda took a well-earned break from filming and rehearsing with a stay in Abu Dhabi. He's appeared in more than 20 Bollywood films in a career spanning 14 years.

A fan of all things equestrian, Randeep immediately bonded with Tayeb and Fayed - two fully-trained Arabian stallions Al Ameri uses for international film productions.

After a basic horsemaster education session in the ranch paddock covering aspects of groundwork, handling and liberty, Hooda hit the nearby dunes to put his lessons to the test with Tayeb - which means kind in Arabic - and take a desert ride with Al Ameri.

"Randeep is a natural rider and he did very well with unfamiliar horses," said Al Ameri, who was born in Abu Dhabi's heritage heartland of Al Ain. "He was very brave, wasn't scared and took it all in his stride. If he keeps up this progress, I may have some competition in the future! I told him he doesn't have to worry about my acting though!

"I'm not surprised the horses took to Randeep - they have qualities in common - they are both

good-natured, quick to learn, and willing to please."

With some 40 horses in his stables, Al Ameri is working on a range of new products to attract a greater share of international visitors to Rahal Ranch. At present, Al Ameri - who travels all over the world working on problem horses and training horses for film productions such as Disney's The Young Black Stallion - offers ad hoc courses in basic horsemaster education and all visits must be pre-booked to the family-run

ranch. Future plans include quarterly authentic Arabian horse shows and trick shows, arriveand-ride day-trips and horsemaster photo-shoots in the desert.

"Arabian horses are known worldwide for their speed, refinement, endurance, and strong bones. They are a much-treasured part of our heritage and an asset that we can leverage to engage visitors with our culture," said Al Ameri.

Abu Dhabi celebrates its equestrian heritage annually with the H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan Global Arabian Horse Flat Racing Festival.

52 India Post

December 5, 2014 www.indiapost.com

Novella on Delhi's 1984 riots as ebook NEW DELHI: A fictionalized version of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots in Delhi captured in a period of four days - between the assassination and the cremation of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi - is now out in electronic book form.

Chandigarh-based writer and journalist Roopinder Singh, has in his novella "Delhi-84" captured through the eyes of a law student the trauma of the Sikh community.

"I was a student here during the time of the riots and soon after left for the US to pursue studies. It was only when I began to write about it that I realized that I had so many repressed memories and everything came pouring out," says Singh.

The author narrates the story from the viewpoint of Gita, a law student who gets caught in the vortex that Delhi becomes between the assassination and the funeral of the Prime Minister.

"It has been a long time since the riots and for the story I delib-

erately stick to the four days from October 31, 1984. It took me a year of researching through old newspapers and magazines to recreate the trauma and grief faced by Sikhs," says Singh.

Roopinder Singh

The author recalls since he had been living in a relatively safe part in South Delhi he had been spared of the violence meted out to other members from his community.

"Once I was driving on my

scooter and saw a mob attacking a Sardarji. We sped away to safety but I still can't forget the image.

Another incident I can't forget is the burning down of a library that my father had set up. A mob set it on fire and it took a long time to burn, it was really heartrending," recalls Singh.

The novella, says the author, also has people from other communities who chipped in to help the Sikhs.

After an initial conversation over a year ago that spurred Singh to begin the process of writing, the author says it was only during the past two months that the pace turned racy and he would "write almost all the time."

Singh, 54, has previously authored a tome on Sikh history, "Sikh heritage: Ethos and Relics" as well as other books like "Women: Many Hues, Many Shades" and "Marshal of the In-

Freida Pinto wants to work in Bollywood

F

reida Pinto always wanted to be a global citizen and after making a place for herself in Hollywood, the Indian actress is keen to star in a Bollywood movie.

The actress, who shot to in-

Freida Pinto

ternational fame with her role in Danny Boyle-directed Oscarwinning saga Slumdog Millionaire, says there have been opportunities in the past, but things somehow did not work out. She is also keen to collaborate with a female director in Bollywood. "I want to work in Bollywood.

I never said that I am not interested in working in the Indian film industry. I would love to work with a female Indian director.

There were times when I liked the scripts, but as I had already committed to other films in Hollywood, I could not do (those films). At other times, the roles were not exciting or

strong enough for me to take up," Freida said in an interview.

The actress, 30, says Hollywood was always on her mind and feels proud of herself that she overcame all limitations and realized her dream of working outside India.

There were times when I liked the scripts, but as I had already committed to other films in Hollywood, I could not do (those films). At other times, the roles were not exciting "I always wanted to be a global citizen. I knew I had to pack my bags, go out and establish myself at the global platform.

That was my dream. I could do that because I had the right education. I have transcended all the possible limitations. I hope my story can inspire other girls," she said.

dian Air Force Arjan Singh." He has also written a book in Hindi on Guru Nanak Dev. For his first novella, Singh picked the eroute format over the

six months ago by my son and since that time I have been hooked and have been reading a lot. So this time when I wanted to publish I took the ebook route as it

printed book by recently releasing the book through Amazon and made available exclusively for a limited time on Kindle.

"I am fairly new to e-books. In fact, I was given a kindle around

also frees me from the limitations of word counts," says the author.

Singh, also says publishing electronically helps him to reach out to a wider audience spread across the world. -PTI

Flipkart launches 'Fashion Files' with Conde Nast BENGALURU: E-commerce major Flipkart has announced the launch of the 'Flipkart Fashion Files' - an exclusive lifestyle content page on its platform.

Flipkart has joined hands with the Conde Nast Group to co-cre-

ate high quality fashion content for its young and dynamic customers, the Bengaluru-based company said.

Targeted at fashion savvy Indian shoppers, 'Flipkart Fashion Files' will host a range of exclusive fashion diva/celebrity interviews, trend boards, brand and

product stories along with lifestyle articles, it said in a release.

Mukesh Bansal, Head - Fashion (Flipkart), said, "... With this we aim to enhance the shopping experience of our style savvy shoppers by introducing fashion content curated by experts in this field. This is a true combination of high quality commerce and content which will add new dimension to our fashion category..."

Alex Kuruvilla, Managing Director of Conde Nast India said: "This is a very exciting opportunity for us as we add Flipkart to our global portfolio of Conde Nast's international contract publishing clients that include Audi, Mercedes, Ferrari, Mandarin Oriental, among others." -PTI

Philosophy

December 5, 2014

India Post 53

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I

t is not uncommon to hear some one express confidence that he would recognize a spiritual man if he met one. This, however, is not always possible. High spiritual attainment, even complete liberation, is not always recognizable.

Naturally, it is not easy to give examples of this, for this very reason that they are not recognized, but one very striking one is that of Christ before he set forth on his mission.

According to Christian doctrine, he was born without original sin (which means Self-realization from birth) and attained no new state when he went forth on his `Father's business'; and yet he exerted no influence on others before that but went completely unrecognized.

Not only is there no record of crowds flocking to Nazareth, as they would have in any country or age to the seat of one recognized as a holy man, but, on the contrary, when he returned there with his disciples his fellow-townsmen expressed surprise, if not incredulity that the local carpenter should have turned out a prophet.

The Maharshi also was not recognized when he first attained Realization but only later when he began to shed Grace on others and act as a Guru.

The reason for this is that it is not a man's inner state which is S. BALASUNDARAM

K

rishnaji (J. Krishnamurti) was very well-informed, but he read very little and also slowly. I have never seen him read any religious books.

Becoming very serious once when Life magazine produced a statistical table after the 1968 Olympics showing India at the bottom of the scale, he said: 'Has it occurred to you why this country has not produced one outstandingly creative individual in so many years in science, art, music, and so forth, and this for a country which has all these beautiful sculptures and temples?

Why did it not produce a single truly creative individual lately who is internationally known?'

He went on badgering me. He used to address me as 'Old boy', or 'Balasundaram', or 'Sir', it meant you were in for the cudgel. He continued 'Have you not thought about it? How can you educate people if you are not aware of this?' Then I threw the question back: 'What would you say?'

He replied that it was an old trick to throw the question back, but added: 'I'll tell you, watch.

Whenever there has been a great efflorescence of art, music, po-

felt by others but the Grace flowing through him towards them.

Perceptible Grace may thus flow through one who has not attained the Supreme Identity (as has been the case with many saints) or even through one who has not attained any spiritual state at all; and again it may not through one who has.

There may be other spiritual functions besides the guidance of disciples, for some of which ano-

Grace is channeled through him, but as a guru he can only guide as far as he has gone. That was the real ground for the Buddha's dissatisfaction with the gurus he went to before attaining Enlightenment.

Finally he attained Enlightenment with no outer guru. The disciple who sets no limits to his aspiration needs a guru to whose achievement there are none.

Actually, recognition of a guru

path which, with his grace and support can be followed by aspirants in any religion, and indeed whether they observed any religion formal religion or not.

It might be thought to follow from this that Bhagwan's initiation would be freely and openly given; on the contrary, it was concealed.

Had it been open, the constant stream of visitors from India and abroad would have demanded it,

Grace may flow even through the unenlightened Actually, recognition of a guru is complicated by impurities in the disciple which make him imagine perfection where it does Arthur Osborne

not exist and overlook it where it does.

nymity is desirable. If so it will be maintained.

With a guru, of course, the question of recognition ought not to arise, since it is, so to speak, his function to be recognized. It is important that he should be, because my saying that perceptible grace can flow through one who has not attained does not mean that he can guide others farther than he has gone himself.

There may be other and more exoteric purposes for which the

is complicated by impurities in the disciple which make him imagine perfection where it does not exist and overlook it where it does.

A guru normally guides his followers along the path which himself trod, and Bhagwan's approach to Realization was through an act of self-enquiry unconnected with the forms of the Hindu or any other religion.

This also was what he taught.

He came as an answer to the needs of our age, proclaiming a

putting Bhagwan under the necessity of accepting one and rejecting another; for ordinarily many seek initiation without pledging themselves to the quest, merely as a spiritual tonic. As it was, the aspirants' own understanding or lack of it performed the selection which in a secret order would be performed by the guru.

Excerpted from 'My Life And Quest.' Arthur Osborne was an influential English disciple and biographer of Ramana Maharshi.

etry, and so forth, it appears after a great religious period.

What do we see after the Buddha appeared? The Ajanta and Ellora caves! If anyone creates nowadays something like that he would be acclaimed worldwide.

Anonymous people did that!' He went on viewing the whole world

one man, the Buddha was one man. So for good or evil things have been changed by one person. You have to go to the root. If you do not discover the root, you can do only something on the periphery. This goes for education and for everything.'

Krishnaji had a tremendous

larly, but he wrote: 'I forgot to pick up a cigarette in those fifteen days, because I forgot that I was a smoker.'

Scriptures say that one of the major causes of man's illusion is deh達tma-bh達va, believing that you are the body. But in Krishnamurti this was never there.

Scriptures say that one of the major causes of man's illusion is deh達tma-bh達va, believing that you are the body. But in Krishnamurti

and then said: 'True religious feeling is the mother of all creativity.

This country has let it go.' He was very serious about it.

He was affectionate, but could also be explosive at times. It was so when he said: 'You have to do something.' I replied: 'What can one man do?' Then he turned round and said: 'Do not ever say that again: What can one man do?

Napoleon was one man. Hitler was

J. Krishnamurti

presence that affected some people that way. Other people were not affected in the same way, one cannot say why. Often I have seen villagers and people who did not know him at all stand back and bow to greet him when he walked by.

Rom Landau says in his book God is My Adventure, when he went to see Krishnaji in 1934. At that time he used to smoke regu-

Do you wish to rise? Begin by descending. You plan a tower that will pierce the clouds? Lay first the foundation of humility.

- Saint Augustine Humility is the solid foundation of all virtues.

- Confucius There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man; true nobility is being superior to your former self.

-Ernest Hemingway True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.

- C.S. Lewis In the course of my life, I have often had to eat my words, and I must confess that I have always found it a wholesome diet.

- Winston S. Churchill

Why hasn't India produced one outstandingly creative individual?

this was never there

It is unwise to be too sure of one's own wisdom. It is healthy to be reminded that the strongest might weaken and the wisest might err.

- Mahatma Gandhi

He used to treat his body as a separate entity which he had to look after, clothe, bathe, feed with the right kind of food and so forth. Krishnaji used to treat it as though it was a precious instrument to look after.

Reproduced from "The Theosophist" December 1996 issue. Dr Balasundaram is a former Secretary of the Krishnamurti Foundation India.

True humility does not know that it is humble. If it did, it would be proud from the contemplation of so fine a virtue.

- Martin Luther A man should never be ashamed to own that he has been in the wrong, which is but saying in other words that he is wiser today than he was yesterday.

- Alexander Pope

You Insure all your Valuables, all are replaceable except YOU! So Insure yourself FIRST. Call Sahanis, (Arish, Priya or Shiv) for your Insurance needs 718- 271- 0453. Serving for last 35 yrs

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Resetting Afghan-Pak relations not easy

I

n November 2014, the new President of Afghanistan, Ashraf Ghani, made his maiden visit to Pakistan, one that is being projected as a "breakthrough" in the bilateral relations between the two countries. Only recently, the renowned international research organization - the International Crisis Group (ICG) published a report on the need for Pakistan to reset its relationship with Afghanistan.

After Ghani's visit, is the PakAfghan relationship ready for a reset?

The visit of the new Afghan President to Pakistan was undertaken after a thorough homework by both sides. Ghani's Pakistan visit was preceded by multiple visits from Pakistan to Afghanistan at the highest levels over recent weeks, that included the visits of the Pakistan Chief of Army Staff (COAS) (November 2014), the Director General of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (November 2014) and the Pakistani National Security Advisor (October 2014).

In return, the Afghan President received a red carpet welcome by Pakistan and had extensive discussions with the Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, the COAS, and his Pakistani counterpart, Mamnoon Hussain. It is possible; there is a better expectation and even euphoria within Pakistan about the new Afghan President.

Ghani's predecessor, Hamid Karzai, was not liked by many within the establishment. During Karzai's period, bilateral relations between the two countries had hit a low, with accusations and counter-accusations. As a result, Pakistan now sees the new President from a different perspective.

The fact that he had hosted the aforementioned Pakistani officials within two months of assuming office also highlights the Afghan response.

The joint discussions during the visit, though did not make any major breakthrough, touched upon two crucial aspects. First was on increasing the KabulIslamabad economic engagement; both countries agreed to expand trade relations and have set a target of 5 billion dollars by 2017. Both sides also agreed to work on joint projects on infrastructure.

In that context, the recent developments on an electricity grid linking Pakistan with Central

India Post

D SUBA CHANDRAN

Asia via Afghanistan - the CASA 1000 - holds new opportunities for both countries.

Second, the joint discussions also focused on Afghanistan's security forces receiving military training from Pakistan. The same was discussed when Pakistan's COAS visited Afghanistan in November, during which he was reported to have volunteered to provide military training to the Afghan troops.

Though Pakistan had offered the same earlier as well, Karzai was hesitant to accept, as, at that time, there was deep distrust in Kabul towards Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

Given the nature of civil-military relations within Pakistan, the offer to train Afghan security forces should have come from the establishment and not from the prime minister. What does the acceptance of military training by Pakistan mean for Af-

Ready for a Reset?

Much will depend on three key issues: First, the establishment in Pakistan and its linkages with the Quetta Shura and the Haqqani Network.

The top leadership may have decided to reset the relationship, but does the entire structure, down to the operative in the field, perceive Afghanistan in the same way?

The reported "sections" or "cells" within the establishment and their role whether in orchestrating a political conspiracy (as has been the case during the recent political protests by Tahirul Qadri and Imran Khan) or clandestinely supporting the multiple Taliban franchises have been reported sufficiently by the media within Pakistan itself.

Second, will the multiple franchisees of the Taliban - the Quetta Shura, the Haqqani Network and the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) factions - agree to such a

Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif (right) with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Islamabad

ghanistan? Is there a greater trust in Kabul vis-Ă -vis the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi?

The above would also imply that there is an understanding between both sides on militant sanctuaries on either sides of the Durand Line.

Karzai was apprehensive of the Pakistani establishment's support to the Quetta Shura and the Haqqani Network; and the latter was suspicious of former's support to the Pakistani Taliban, especially Mullah Fazlullah. The fact that the joint discussions avoided discussing this issue in public does hint towards an understanding between the new leaderships in Kabul, and Islamabad.

These are good news for Pakistan-Afghanistan relations.

reset? How does one interpret the suicide bomb during the last week of November in Afghanistan's Paktika province that killed over 50 people during a volleyball match? And another attack on a British vehicle and foreign guest house in Kabul, killing six?

Finally, what would Pakistan expect from Afghanistan in return for the reset? And will Afghanistan be able to deliver the same?

For example, what if the government in Kabul is unable to control its own provinces in eastern Afghanistan where the TTP finds sanctuary? And what if Islamabad expects Kabul to reduce the Indian footprint in Afghanistan?

The reset in bilateral relations should be welcome. It is timely and imperative. However, it is not going to be an easy task.

The writer is Director, IPCS

T

With or without

he mark of a leader is taking initiatives. In his six months in office as Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken many bold initiatives, particularly so in foreign affairs and nothing more remarkable than the invitation to US President Barack Obama to be the Chief Guest at India's Republic Day celebrations. In the recently concluded South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) Summit in Kathmandu, the leaders gathered called for concluding agreements on motor vehicles and railways aimed at enhancing cargo and popular transport and facilitate trade and peopleto-people connectivity.

An agreement on energy trade was also set to emerge. But as expected, Pakistan put a spanner in the works and a consensus could not be arrived at. However, Modi told the leaders of Saarc that the region should move forward with all Saarc members if possible, or some of them, if necessary. "The bonds will grow. Through Saarc or outside it. Among us all or some of us," he declared.

This was a clear hint to the disrupting tactics of Pakistan. Indeed, India can go ahead and conclude bilateral agreement with individual Saarc members. By virtue of its size and population, India is naturally the center of Saarc. In its 30 years of existence this regional body has not been able to make much headway mainly because of Pakistan's obstructionst role. This western neighbor has never able to accept India's dominant position in the region.

India also continued to carry on with the ritual of Saarc summits with the UPA's unimaginative leaders unable to come up with initiatives.

The Saarc charter allows two states to enter into bilateral agreements. Modi should not squander this opportunity. As a persuasive speaker he can mobilize public opinion in favor of implementing the Land Boundary Agreement with Bangladesh, expanding secure cooperation with Dhaka and build trans-border connectivity between India and its eastern neighbors - Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar.

Modi in Kathmandu sought to energies Saarc as the forum for beneficial regionalism. He committed a large number of deliverables from India for the region. India, he announced would set up a Special Purpose Facility "to finance infrastructure projects in our region that enhance our connectivity and trade". India will upgrade border facilities and push for common standards between Saarc countries. Modi announced, "India will now give business visa for 3-5 years for Saarc. Let's make it even easier for our businesses through a Saarc Business Traveler Card." Modi said he plans to set up a power trading facility in the region through which electricity can be traded as a commodity.

India, he said, would put in extra funds to establish the Saarc Regional Supra Reference Laboratory for TB and HIV. India will also sell the pentavalent vaccine to other South Asian countries and has promised quick delivery medical visas.

He even offered vaccine to polio-hit countries in South Asia, which would mean Pakistan and Afghanistan. It may find many takers in Afghanistan but would place Pakistan in a dilemma.

While many in the South Asian region waited with bated breath to see if the leaders of India and Pakistan would at least shake hands, the atmosphere was provided by hosts Nepal to arrange informal gathering at a retreat in picturesque Dhulikhel town near Kathmandu. Alongwith the hosts, it seems Afghan President Ashraf Ghani played a key role in bringing together Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistan counterpart Nawaz Sharif for a handshake that ended their cold vibes. However it remained a photo op only and no tangible was available for wither the two countries or for the regional grouping, Saarc.

China was the elephant in the room at the Summit with all countries except India in favor of according it a larger role. India is no match for China and its entry can hurt India's prospects but it is a moot question how long can India prevent China when all others want it?

December 5, 2014

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