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Narendra Modi

Modi beats Tendulkar on Facebook Details on page 7

Indians in US remember Mandela

VOL 19, No. 1004

December 13, 2013

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Periodical Postage

CENTRAL RULE HANGS OVER DELHI

India Post News Service

NEW DELHI: With both the BJP and the debutante Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) refusing to form a government, the possibility of Congress rule by the backdoor now hangs over Delhi. If no party is able to form a government, President's Rule will be imposed which means that Lt Governor Najeeb Jung will head administration as representative of the Central Government which is run by the Congress-led UPA. The BJP has won 32 seats in a house of 70 MLAs and needs four more to reach the majority figure. The AAP has 28 seats and its leader Arvind Kejriwal has made it clear that it will not support either the BJP or take support of the Congress to form a government.

The BJP has also announced its reluctance to form a government saying it did not have the numbers and that it is ready to face elections. In fact it has asked its newly-

elected MLAs to get ready for fresh elections.

Harsh Vardhan, who was formally elected as the leader of the legislature party, said, "It is a sad situation for us and residents of Delhi, but due to present technicalities, government cannot be formed with a fractured mandate.

We don't have enough numbers to form a stable government and we are ready to fight the election once again, if such a situation arises."

Details on page 5

Hazare begins fast RALEGAN SIDDHI, Maharashtra: Notwithstanding the Center's assertion that it was serious about passing the Jan Lokpal Bill in the current Parliament session, Anna Hazare began his indefinite fast for its immediate passage, saying the government must keep its word on the issue.

Details on page 6

Details on page 18

Gen Singh in US, discusses defense ties Details on page 6

Grand victory celebration

by OFBJP Details on page 19

24 Indians in Singapore face rioting charges Details on page 10

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in New Delhi Jan 7-9 Details on page 10

India seeks US cooperation on chemical threat

Sanjay Dutt's wife has tumor in liver, says doc

Details on page 9 Details on page 10

Chabahar port draft ready for signing

CONTENTS Bollywood ---------------------- 30-31 Classifieds ------------------------- 52

Details on page 10

Community Post -------------- 18-25 Date Book -------------------------- 48 Edit Page --------------------------- 54

INDIA POST SURVEY

HealthScience Post --------- 32-35

survey@indiapost.com

Horoscope ------------------------- 26

This week’s question

Immigration Post ------------- 44-46

State BJP victories due to Modi?

Life Style ----------------------- 49-51 Philosophy ------------------------- 53

Last week’s result

Are Indian politicians to blame for corruption?

YES 67%

NO 33%

SENSATIONAL DEBUT: Aam Aadmi Party convener Arvind Kejriwal surrounded by newly elected MLAs shows victory sign after being elected party leader in the Delhi Assembly on December 9. In a spectacular show, the nine-month old party bagged 28 seats nearly wiping out the Congress and giving headaches to the BJP who ended up as the largest party but was unable to form a government.

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Publisher’s Diary ------------------ 4 Real Estate ------------------------ 47 TechBiz Post ------------------- 12-14 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 40-43

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still remember the images from New York's Times Square two years ago when a bunch of young Indian Americans had gathered wearing white Tshirts and Gandhi-topis with "I am Anna" written on them. These were all professionals who were out to show their solidarity to the anti-corruption movement then on in full swing in India led by Anna Hazare and Arvind Kejriwal.

I remember the conviction with which these youngsters gathered there believed that they could contribute to a movement in India all the way from the United States. They knew their voices would not only reach India but add to the growing voice of the Indian masses who were looking for strong ropes to hold on to in the face of organized political corruption that is so deep rooted in the country.

That year, I saw a bigger crowd of Indian Americans making their presence felt all across the US when they marched in solidarity again in the various India Day parades. I knew then that they would make a difference and I wasn't wrong because today, in the victory of Kejriwal, who went on to form a political party - the Aam Aadmi Party - and contested the Delhi Assembly election and actually trounced veteran politician and three-time incumbent chief minister Sheila Dikshit, there definitely is a huge hand of support of these NRIs. I believe a lot of NRIs from the US, UK, Australia, Singapore and a few other countries contributed almost Rs. 6 crore towards Aam Aadmi Party's election campaign. And a lot of other NRIs physically contributed to the campaign by camping out in New Delhi to volunteer for the Party.

It's sad that Anna, the original poster child of the anti-corruption movement, fell out with Kejriwal's political ideology. What Kejriwal launched is not a political party but a political movement, and I hope that not only the so called reformists like Anna, but the sickeningly cynical Indian media that serves only corporate interests, see the critical importance of such a movement in the Indian polity. If they can't join the movement, let them not break it up either.

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HIGHLIGHTS Bollywood: Divorce on cards After a 13 year long happy married life, Hrithik Roshan and Suzanne Roshan seem to have filed for divorce.

Cover Story: Central rule?

With the BJP and the debutante AAP refusing to form a government, the possibility of Central rule hangs over Delhi

Community: Beacon of peace Members of Indian community across USA mourn death of Nelson Mandela, the nonagenarian leader of South Africa

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Immigration: Racial profiling Eight Hispanic hunters who were accused of being illegal residents have filed a lawsuit alleging racial profiling

Life Style: Game changers Defying formula, 2013 saw instances in Hindi film industry which were not only promising but also trend-setting.

Techbiz: Good governance Indian Inc has said the outcome of elections in four States is a strong message for ensuring good governance.

Travel: Auli Auli is the most popular skiing destination blessed with invigorating views of the splendid Himalayan ranges

44 49 12 40

Cover/Top Stories

December 13, 2013

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Central rule hangs over Delhi Spectacular BJP vict India Post News Service

NEW DELHI: With both the BJP and the debutante Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) refusing to form a government, the possibility of Congress rule by the backdoor now hangs over Delhi.

If no party is able to form a government, President's Rule will be imposed which means that Lt Governor Najeeb Jung will head administration as representative of the Central Government which is run by the Congress-led UPA. The BJP has won 32 seats in a house of 70 MLAs and needs four more to reach the majority figure. The AAP has 28 seats and its leader Arvind Kejriwal has made it clear that it will not support either the BJP or take support of the Congress to form a government.

The BJP has also announced its reluctance to form a government saying it did not have the

situation for us and residents of Delhi, but due to present technicalities, government cannot be formed with a fractured mandate.

We don't have enough numbers to form a stable government and we are ready to fight the election once again, if such a situation arises."

"We have emerged as the single largest party in assembly polls, but lack a few seats (for majority). We are neither eager nor even trying to form government by any immoral means.

"Whether we form the government or not, we will continue serving people. I today promise that residents of Delhi will not regret electing us as their representatives," added Vardhan.

Delhi BJP president Vijay Goel also reiterated the party's line.

"As we have not got majority, we have decided not to form government by any horse trading and any illegal means. In every elec-

Rajasthan BJP President Vasundhara Raje accepts greetings of supporters at her residence in Jaipur, a day after the party’s landslide victory in Assembly elections

numbers and that it is ready to face elections. In fact it has asked its newly-elected MLAs to get ready for fresh elections.

Harsh Vardhan, who was formally elected as the leader of the legislature party, said, "It is a sad

tion, hundreds of crores of rupees are spent. We would have been happy, had any party formed the government," said Goel.

Expressing confidence that BJP will be able to form govern-

ories in MP, Rajasthan & Chhattisgarh

Harsh Vardhan expresses gratitude after being elected as the legislative party leader in Assembly by party MLAs in New Delhi on December 10. Also seen BJP Delhi in-charge Nitin Gadkari, state unit chief Vijay Goel, MP Navjot Singh Siddhu and leader V K Malhotra

ment after a re-election, Goel said that the party was ready to sit in the opposition and also ready to face election.

"I am confident that like this time, we will once again emerge as number one party in the election and will get majority to form the government," said Goel, adding that the party is not seeking anyone's support.

“Don't consider yourself as MLAs but as candidates," former party president Nitin Gadkari was quoted as telling the legislators after the party finished with 31 seats in the 70-member assembly.

Gadkari reportedly said the party was not keen to win over legislators from other parties to cobble a majority in the house.

Won't prop up BJP Earlier, Kejriwal said that Aam Aadmi Party won't prop up the BJP in Delhi's hung assembly.

Speaking a day after senior colleague Prashant Bhushan suggested giving issue-based

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan surrounded by BJP after party’s thumping victory in Assembly polls in Bhopal on December 8

support to the BJP, Kejriwal said: "Neither we will take support nor give support (to form a government). There is no question."

Kejriwal instead advised the BJP to take power with the help of the Congress, which has eight legislators.

"Let the BJP and Congress

Chhattisgarh CM Raman Singh along with party MLAs waves to supporters after he was unanimously elected as the leader of the BJP Legislative Party in Raipur, Chhattisgarh on December 9

join hands... Both indulge in corruption. The BJP is the single largest party. Let them join hands with the Congress and form a government," Kejriwal said AAP leader and lawyer Prashant Bhushan's suggestion that AAP could give selective support for a BJP government was his personal view.

"It (was) his personal opinion," he said. "(What I am saying) is the party's opinion."

Bhushan had told a TV channel that AAP may consider supporting BJP if the party gives AAP in writing that it will pass the Jan Lokpal Bill.

The noted lawyer himself clarified that what he had said was in a rhetorical context.

Cont’d on page 7

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Anna Hazare begins indefinite fast for Jan Lokpal RALEGAN SIDDHI, Maharashtra: Notwithstanding the Center's assertion that it was serious about passing the Jan Lokpal Bill in the current Parliament session, Anna Hazare began his indefinite fast for its immediate passage, saying the government must keep its word on the issue.

The anti-graft campaigner whose earlier fast at Ramlila Maidan and public protests had forced the Government to ensure the Bill's passage in the Lok Sabha, launched his fast at this tiny village in Ahmednagar district, surrounded by a crowd of supporters, far less in number than the multitudes that swarmed the Delhi venue.

"Neither Congress, nor BJP is thinking about Jan Lokpal, about decentralization of power," Hazare said, addressing the supporters who gathered outside the Yadavbaba temple here, the venue of the fast.

Maharashtra Revenue Minister Balsahsaheb Thorat, who hails from the district, met Hazare and conveyed to him chief minister Prithviraj Chavan's message to call off the fast.

Earlier in the day, Union Minister of State for Personnel V Narayanasamy said the government was serious about passing the legislation during the current session of Parliament itself and had even given a notice to Rajya Sabha Chairman in that regard.

"As far as the Lokpal bill is

Social activist Anna Hazare addressing supporters on the first day of his indefinite hunger strike for Jan Lokpal Bill at his village in Ralegan Siddhi on December 10

concerned I have given notice to Chairman Rajya Sabha for taking up the Lokpal Bill. ...Government is taking all sincere step to pass the Lokpal Bill," he told reporters outside Parliament.

When Hazare's attention was drawn to Narayanasamy's statement, he said, "The government should keep its word".

The 76-year-old activist said his fast would continue till the time Jan Lokpal Bill was passed.

Hazare had earlier said Narayanasamy, also Minister of State in Prime Minister's Office, had sent a letter detailing steps taken by the government for passage of the Bill, pending in the Rajya Sabha.

"I offered prayers at the local temple before beginning the fast and asked God to give the government subuddhi (good sense) to pass the Jan Lokpal Bill," Hazare told reporters, shortly be-

fore commencing the fast.

"Jan Lokpal Bill will be a big step towards nation building," he said.

Accusing Congress of "betrayal", he said time has come for the UPA government to deliver on its promise or quit.

The social activist, who had shot to national limelight with his fasts in Delhi over the issue, said the Congress should understand the reality after the serious drub-

bing it received in the just-concluded Assembly elections and ensure the passage of the Lokpal Bill in the Winter Session of Parliament.

Asked if Aam Aadmi Party chief Arvind Kejriwal is welcome to Ralegan Siddhi to support his fast, the Gandhian said, "Everyone, including Kejariwal is welcome. The only condition is that they must come without the banner of a political party."-PTI

Gen Singh discusses Indo-US defense ties WASHINGTON: Indian Army Chief Gen Bikram Singh and top US military leadership have discussed ways to enhance bilateral defense ties through joint training exercises and military exchanges to advance India's military interests.

Singh visited important US defense establishments and met a number of high-ranking defense and civilian officials here during his four-day trip that ended on December 5.

Singh and US Army Chief of Staff Gen Ray Odierno discussed the ongoing army-to-army cooperation and opportunities to further strengthen bilateral cooperation through joint training exercises and military exchanges.

General Singh also utilized the opportunity to discuss the USIndia defense relationship with other senior US military leadership and advance India's military interests, according to an official statement.

United States Army Chief of Staff, Gen. Ray Odierno and Indian Army Chief Gen. Bikram Singh during an office call to the Pentagon, Arlington on December 5

Before his trip, the Indian Army had said that the visit assumes special significance in the light of enhanced defense cooperation between the two countries over the last few years and rapidly increasing defense engagements under the new framework for India-US defense relations.

Noting that present cooperation between the two sides was on a rise, the Army had said it "encompasses equipment procurement, exchange of delegations, training and conduct of joint exercises. It is notable the US undertakes maximum number of joint exercises with India among all nations."

Singh was inducted into US Army War College International (UAWSC) Fellows Hall of Fame, an outstanding honor in the international military community.

Singh, an alumnus of the USAWC, delivered a keynote speech to its class of 2013-2014. PTI

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Narendra Modi beats Sachin Tendulkar on Facebook NEW DELHI: BJP's Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi is the most talked about person on Facebook in India beating likes of cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar and Apple iconic device iPhone 5s, the US-based social networking site said.

According to the social networking giant's top Indian trends of 2013, RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan and India's Mars mission also failed to beat the Gujarat Chief Minister, who was the most mentioned person on Facebook this year.

Facebook, which at present claims to have 1.19 billion monthly active users (MAUs), has 82 million MAUs in India for the quarter ending June 31, 2013.

"Take a look at the most mentioned people and events of 2013, which point to some of the most popular topics in India," Facebook said in a statement.

This includes Narendra Modi followed by Sachin Tendulkar, iPhone 5s, Raghuram Rajan and Mangalyaan, it added.

Last month, India launched its

RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan and India's Mars mission also failed to beat the Gujarat Chief Minister, who was the most mentioned person on Facebook this year maiden mission to Mars, which could carry India into a small club of nations, including the US, Europe, and Russia, whose probes have orbited or landed on Mars.

Central rule hangs over Delhi "What I said was in a rhetorical context. I meant that if BJP becomes like AAP and does those things which AAP has been formed for and AAP believes in, then we can think of supporting them. But this is not possible because these parties can never become like AAP," he told reporters.

"We cannot support BJP or Congress as AAP was formed as an alternative to them. People have supported us so that we can establish an alternative politics in the country," Bhushan said.

with the policies of their organization and were feeling choked.

"If you are not satisfied with them, then come to us," he said.

On Congress leader Shaqeel Ahmed's remarks on government formation, he said there is no question of taking their support.

To a question on Congress leader V Narayanasamy's comment that the government was sincere about passing the Lokpal Bill, he shot back, asking "which Lokpal Bill...the lame and handicapped one or the Janlokpal bill".

"You can call any bill a Lokpal Bill," he said.

Sown a hope

Olive branch

Kejriwal said, "I want to tell the country that Delhi has sown a hope. It is not our fight, AAP is a small party with a small number of people. It is not the fight of AAP but the fight of common man.

"I appeal to all good people, good organizations and good political forces to unite as this is a historic moment to change the country....Join us, we will move out of the way and give preference to you. There are no ego issues, we all need to come together," he said.

He asked the "good" people in political parties to revolt against their parties if they were not happy

Meanwhile, the Congress, which won eight seats, appeared to be extending an olive branch to AAP to form a government in Delhi. Congress's Delhi in-charge Shakeel Ahmed said the party is prepared to give outside support to the AAP. "Many of our leaders feel that if AAP forms government, we should lend them unconditional support from outside.

Nothing has been decided yet.

We are speaking to our MLA," he said.

Shakeel Ahmed told the media that the Congress is ready to support AAP without any conditions.- (With PTI inputs)

Cont’d from page 5

Batting maestro Tendulkar also retired last month after playing his 200th-test match. He is also the first sportsperson to be bestowed with India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna.

"Today, we're taking a look back at the people, moments and places that mattered most on Facebook in India in 2013," the social networking site said.

Conversations happening all over Facebook offer a unique snapshot of India and this year was no different. Every day, people post about topics and milestones important to them from announcing an engagement, to discussing breaking news or even celebrating a favorite political party's victory or love for cricket, it added. -PTI

Sanjay Dutt's wife has tumor in liver, says doc MUMBAI: As a massive controversy broke out over granting parole to actor Sanjay Dutt on the ground of his wife Manyata's ill health, a doctor who examined her has said she has been diagnosed with a tumor in the liver and a suspected heart ailment.

"Manyata has a tumor in the liver. She had chest pain and has lost ten kilos in 15-20 days. We have advised her to undergo certain tests for heart ailment. Once the tests are done then we can decide whether surgery is required or not," Dr Ajay Chaughule told PTI. Chaughule, a senior heart and cardio thoracic surgeon and heart and lung transplant surgeon at Global Hospital, said she had visited him and has been prescribed

some medicines.

The doctor said Manyata had earlier gone to Lilavati hospital where she was advised to undergo angiography to ascertain the condition of her heart after which she decided to take a second opinion from Chaughule.

Dutt, who is undergoing the remainder of his five-year jail term at Yerawada Central Jail in Pune in connection with the 1993 Mumbai blasts case, was granted a parole for 30 days on the recommendation of the prison administration.

Newspapers had photographs of Manyata purportedly attending the screening of a film as also a celebrity birthday party, raising doubts about Dutt's claim regarding her illness. -PTI

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Mandela had 'wonderful time' in last few days JOHANNESBURG: Nelson Mandela had a "wonderful time" in his last few days as his wife Graca, his children and grandchildren were all there to say goodbye, the anti- apartheid icon's daughter has said.

"Until the last moment he had us, you know...The children were there, the grandchildren were there, Graca was there, so we are always around him and even at the last moment, we were sitting with him the whole day," Makaziwe Mandela was quoted as saying by the BBC. "I think it was a wonderful time, if you can say the process of death is wonderful.

But Tata (Nelson Mandela) had a wonderful time, because we were there," she said.

Mandela, South Africa's first black president who steered his nation out of apartheid and into multi-race democracy, died late on December at the age of 95 after protracted illness.

The 'National Day of Prayer and Reflection' started off an official program of mourning, including a memorial service at a Johannesburg stadium, culminating in a state funeral on December 15 at Mandela's Eastern Cape ancestral home of Qunu, expected to be one of the biggest gatherings of world leaders in decades.

"When the doctors told us that there was nothing that they could do, and said to me 'Maki call everybody that is here that VIPs and dignitaries stand up for the start of the memorial service for former South African president Nelson Mandela at the FNB Stadium in Soweto, near Johannesburg, South Africa, December 10

India’s President Pranab Mukherjee speaks during the memorial service for former South African president Nelson Mandela at the FNB Stadium

wants to see him and say bye bye', it was a most wonderful day for us because the grandchildren were there, we were there," Makaziwe said.

She also paid tribute to the doctors for the 24-hour care.

"It was like there were soldiers guarding this period of the king - yes my father comes from royalty - without them knowing they were actually practicing our rituals and culture, they were there in silence and when we as family members come in they would excuse themselves and just a few of them would be there to give us the time to be around my dad's bed," she was quoted as saying.-PTI

President Barrack Obama kisses Nelson Mandela’s widow Graca Machel during the memorial service

December 13, 2013

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Ranjan Mathai takes over as Indian envoy in UK

India seeks US cooperation in countering CBRN threat

LONDON: Ranjan Mathai, former For- Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and eign Secretary of India, has taken over as Maldives. the country's next High Commissioner to He was the Ambassador of India to Isthe UK. rael from February He succeeds Jaimini 1998 to June 2001 and Bhagwati, who retired to Qatar from August recently.

2001 to July 2005.

Born on May 24, He next held the 1952, Mathai joined the post of Deputy High Indian Foreign Service Commissioner of Inin 1974, after completdia to the UK in Loning Post Graduate studdon from August 2005 ies in Political Science to January 2007. at the University of He served as the Poona.

Ambassador of India He served in Indian to France with conMissions in Vienna, current accreditation Ranjan Mathai Colombo, Washington, to the Principality of Tehran and Brussels.

Monaco from January As Joint Secretary (BSM) in the Minis- 2007 till he assumed the office of Foreign try of External Affairs in New Delhi (Janu- Secretary from August 2011 to July 2013. ary 1995 to February 1998), he headed the He and wife Gita have two daughters. Division dealing with India's relations with PTI

NEW DELHI: With mass transit system gives out minute frame of any individual being a potential target for terrorists, India who is moving in a suspicious manner at has sought cooperation from the US in pro- any metro station. viding technical assistance in countering The same architectural framework could threats from Chemical, Biological, Radio- be used in the metro stations in the national logical and Nuclear (CBRN) weapons. capital.

During a recent meeting between secuThe transport system of the country esrity officials of the two countries, the In- pecially in Mumbai has seen many terror dian side raised the issue of sharing tech- attacks since 2000 in which 250 people have nical know-how of countering the threats emerging from CBRN India has also sought cooperaweapons, official sources said.

A detailed presentation was tion from the US agencies in promade by the CISF during the meeting in which cooperation was viding technical solutions in unsought from the US in providing derstanding "behavioral pattern" technical solutions for CBRN of commuters using the mass threats, underground tunnels and metro stations and track security. transit system with video analysis Indian delegations have been visiting the US for purchase of infra-red been killed. technical system which stands guard at A special mention was made about the various subway stations against CBRN Mumbai railway system which has 136 stathreats but no company stepped in to pro- tions and 469 platforms. On an average vide remedy till some understanding was working day, 70 lakh passengers commute arrived with the US. in 24 hours with the load factor at peak time India has also sought cooperation from being 6,000 passengers per minute. the US agencies in providing technical soPopular as 'local', the railway system in lutions in understanding "behavioral pat- Mumbai is the backbone of the megapolis. But tern" of commuters using the mass transit porous railway stations and rail road, oversystem with video analysis, the sources said. crowding during peak hours, over dependence The "behavioral pattern" as highlighted on manual security checks were listed as probby the US for its Chicago transit system lem for the transport system. -PTI

US tech giants launch campaign for NSA reforms WASHINGTON: Setting aside their differences, eight top US technology companies including Google, Facebook and Microsoft, have joined hands to press the Obama administration and the Congress to reform the secretive National Security Agency.

The agency is in controversy following the leak of classified documents by fugitive CIA operative Edward Snowden, revealing that it indulged in massive telephone and internet surveillance both inside and outside the US, at times sneaking into people's private communications, compromising the security settings of these technology giants.

"This summer's revelations highlighted the urgent need to reform government surveillance practices worldwide," the firms

wrote in an open letter to the US President and members of the Congress in national print advertisements.

Apple, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Twitter, Yahoo, AOL and LinkedIn wrote the letter calling for a global reform of state-led spying.

"The balance in many countries has tipped too far in favor of the state and away from the rights of the individual - rights that are enshrined in our Constitution. This undermines the freedoms we all cherish. It's time for a change," the letter said.

As such, technology giants urged the US to take the lead and make reforms that ensure that government surveillance efforts are clearly restricted by law, proportionate to the risks, transparent and subject to independent oversight.-PTI

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'Iran won't acquire N-weapons Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in New Delhi Jan 7-9 the way Pak did' WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama has strongly allayed the Israeli fear that Iran might acquire nuclear weapons the way Pakistan and North Korea did, saying the verification mechanism around Tehran's atomic program is unprecedented and makes it difficult to cheat.

"With respect to Pakistan, there was never the kinds of inspection regimes and international sanctions and UN resolutions that were in place," Obama said in response to a question at the 10th annual Saban Forum meeting here.

Obama said that by the time the US got an agreement with North Korea, Pyongyang already had acquired a nuclear weapon.

"We have been able to craft an international effort and verification mechanism around the Iran nuclear program that is unprecedented and unique. That doesn't mean it's easy. And that's why we have to take it seriously," said Obama when asked about the failure of the United States in the past to prevent countries like Pakistan to acquire nuclear weapons.

"With the best intentions and all efforts, (the former US) President (Ronald) Reagan vowed that Pakistan would not go nuclear.

Didn't happen. With the best intentions and all efforts, President Clinton vowed that North Korea won't go nuclear. Why is this nuclear deal different than any

other nuclear deal?" the President was asked.

Obama acknowledged that achieving the goals could be tough to achieve.

"It's important for everybody to understand this is hard. Because the technology of the nuclear cycle, you can get off the Internet; the knowledge of creating nuclear weapons is already out there. And Iran is a large coun-

"We have been able to craft an international effort and verification mechanism around the Iran nuclear program that is unprecedented and unique. That doesn't mean it's easy. And that's why we have to take it seriously," try and it is a relatively wealthy country, and so we have to take seriously the possibility that they are going to try to get a nuclear weapon. That's what this whole exercise is about," he argued.

"I think one of the things that I've repeatedly said when people ask, why should we try to negotiate with them, we can't trust them,

we're being naive, what I try to describe to them is not the choice between this deal and the ideal, but the choice between this deal and other alternatives," he said.

"If I had an option, if we could create an option in which Iran eliminated every single nut and bolt of their nuclear program, and foreswore the possibility of ever having a nuclear program, and, for that matter, got rid of all its military capabilities, I would take it," he said.

Iran and P5+1 last month agreed on a historic deal that freezes key parts of Tehran's nuclear program in exchange for temporary relief on some economic sanctions.

"So as a consequence, what we have to do is to make a decision as to, given the options available, what is the best way for us to assure that Iran does not get a nuclear weapon.

And the best way for us to assure it is to test this diplomatic path, understanding that it's not based on trust; it's based on what we can verify," Obama said.

"It also does not negate the fact that Iran is engaging in a whole bunch of other behavior in the Middle East and around the world that is detrimental to the United States and detrimental to Israel," he said, adding the US will continue to contest their efforts where they're engaging in terrorism, where they're being disruptive to US friends and allies. -PTI

India Post News Service

NEW DELHI: The 12th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD2014) will be held on January 7-9, 2014 at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, India. The theme of PBD2014 is "Engaging Diaspora: Connecting Across Generations".

PBD conventions are being held every year since 2003 to mark the contribution of Overseas Indian community towards the development of India.

January 9 was chosen as the day to celebrate this occasion since it was on this day in 1915 that Mahatma Gandhi, the greatest Pravasi, returned to India from South Africa, led India's freedom struggle and changed the lives of Indians forever.

These conventions provide a platform to the overseas Indian

community to engage with the government and people of the land of their ancestors for mutually beneficial activities.

These conventions are also very useful for networking among the overseas Indian community residing in various parts of the world, and enable them to share their experiences in various fields.

During the event, individuals of exceptional merit are honored with the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award to appreciate their role in India's growth.

The event also provides a forum for discussing key issues concerning the Indian Diaspora.

For Registration and Program details, visit: Website: http:// www.moia.gov.in Registration: h t t p : / / w w w. p b d - i n d i a . c o m / registration.html

GOPIO to meet in Delhi Jan 5-6 India Post News Service

NEW DELHI: GOPIO International plans to hold its annual Executive and General Council Meetings on January 5 afternoon followed by its conference.

This convention will conclude on January 6, immediately preceding and in conjunction with Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2014 events of January 7-9, 2014 in

New Delhi, India.

The convention theme is "The Indian Diaspora: Engaging PIOs of Today and Tomorrow".

The venue for this convention is: The Federation House (FICCI), Council Room 3rd Floor, Tansen Marg. The Convention Convener is K. N. Gupta, Co-Convener is R. Dayakar and Coordinator is Munish Gupta.

Draft of Chabahar agreement ready: Afghan envoy 24 Indians in Singapore NEW DELHI: The draft of Chabahar trilateral transit agreement involving India, Iran and Afghanistan is ready and is expected to be finalized soon, the Afghan envoy said here.

"In the context of regional initiatives, the Chabahar trilateral is a very serious issue. We are very strongly pursuing (it) and we are making progress there," Afghan Ambassador Shaida M Abdali told reporters at his residence.

"There has been a draft ready recently and the draft is being looked at right now by the three parties and we expect this will soon be finalized and then a date will be fixed for signing this trilateral in one of the three countries," he said.

The transit agreement involves India, Iran and Afghanistan. India had held discussions with Iran on the Chabahar port during Ex-

ternal Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid's visit to Tehran in May. "We are hoping this will soon be signed between the three coun-

The Chabahar port is strategically crucial as it gives access route to Afghanistan.

The port, which is surrounded by a free trade zone, is vital particularly since Pakistan does not allow transit facility from India to Afghan tries that will make the three countries connected...and connect Afghanistan to the sea," Abdali said.

The Chabahar port is strategically crucial as it gives access route to Afghanistan. The port, which is surrounded by a free trade zone, is vital particularly since Pakistan does not allow transit facility from India to Afghanistan.

"Any investment in the building or rebuilding of Afghanistan's critical infrastructure will not only help grow the Afghan economy but also achieve our two countries' shared objective of enhancing regional connectivity for easy movement of goods and transit and export of energy and mineral resources," Abdali said.

"In this regard, we look forward to signing the trilateral transit trade agreement with India and Iran soon in order to fully utilize the Chabahar Port to further connect the whole region," he added.

-PTI

face rioting charges SINGAPORE: Twenty-four Indians allegedly involved in Singapore's worst outbreak of violence in over 40 years were brought to a court here to face charges.

As many as 28 South Asian workers, including 24 Indians, were arrested for alleged rioting in the country.

All the accused face charges under "rioting with dangerous weapons", punishable by up to seven years in prison as well as caning.

Meanwhile, Singapore police have released two Bangladeshis after investigations showed they were not involved in the riot.

The other two are an Indian national and a Singapore perma-

nent resident. This means those who are likely to face charges of rioting are all Indian nationals, Strait Times reported.

The trouble started after a private bus fatally knocked down an Indian pedestrian, 33-year-old Sakthivel Kuaravelu, around 9:20pm at the junction of Race Course Road and Hampshire Road in Little India, a precinct of Indianorigin businesses, eateries and pubs where most of the South Asian workers take their Sunday break, police said.

At least 18 people, including 10 policemen, were injured when some 400 people attacked the police and damaged 16 vehicles in an Indian district here, they said.

-PTI

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US, Britain 'spying on virtual US to talk to India on Iran oil sanctions world': report WASHINGTON: US and British intelligence have been spying on the global online gaming world because they fear terrorists could use the hugely popular platform to plot attacks, a report said.

Spies have created characters in the fantasy worlds of Second Life and World of Warcraft to carry out surveillance, recruit informers and collect data, The New York Times said, citing newly disclosed classified documents from fugitive US intelligence leaker Edward Snowden.

The report came as eight leading US-based technology companies called on Washington to overhaul its surveillance laws following months of revelations of online eavesdropping from the former National Security Agency (NSA) contractor.

"Fearing that terrorist or criminal networks could use the games to communicate secretly, move money or plot attacks, the documents show, intelligence operatives have entered terrain populated by digital avatars that include elves, gnomes and supermodels," the Times said.

"The spies have created makebelieve characters to snoop and to try to recruit informers, while also collecting data and contents of communications between players," the report said.

It added: "Because militants

"The spies have created make-believe characters to snoop and to try to recruit informers, while also collecting data� often rely on features common to video games - fake identities, voice and text chats, a way to conduct financial transactions American and British intelligence agencies worried that they might be operating there, according to the papers."

The report cited a 2008 NSA paper that warned that the virtual games -played by millions of

people the world over - allowed intelligence suspects "a way to hide in plain sight."

The documents do not give any examples of success from the initiative, the report said, adding that experts and former intelligence officials said "that they knew of little evidence that terrorist groups viewed the games as havens to communicate and plot operations."

The surveillance, which also included Microsoft's Xbox Live, could raise privacy concerns, noted the newspaper.

Apple, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Twitter, Yahoo, AOL and LinkedIn meanwhile wrote an open letter to President Barack Obama and the US Congress calling on Washington to lead the way in a worldwide reform of state-sponsored spying.

"We understand that governments have a duty to protect their citizens. But this summer's revelations highlighted the urgent need to reform government surveillance practices worldwide," the letter said. -AFP

WASHINGTON: NotwithHarf said the US is "going to standing difficulties faced by keep talking to these countries" countries like India in reducing oil about enforcing the sanctions. purchases from Iran, the US has A landmark deal was reached said it will keep talking to them to in Geneva on November 24 beenforce sanctions despite the tween Iran and the P5+1 group landmark nuclear deal with the Is- Britain, China, France, Russia and lamic state. the United States plus Germany "We've been very clear that as on Tehran's disputed nuclear prowe negotiated the first-step agree- gram that the West suspects has ment and as we negotiate the fi- military dimensions. Iran vehenal agreement...the core architecture of Iran's oil The six-month Geneva and banking sector sanctions remain in agreement freezes Iran's place," US State Depart- nuclear drive in exchange ment spokesperson Marie Harf told report- of some sanctions being ers. lifted as a final solution "We have done a lot is worked out of diplomatic hard work - very hard diplomatic, tireless work, with countries like mently rejects the charge.

India, Japan, South Korea, others, The six-month Geneva agreeto put in place these sanctions on ment freezes Iran's nuclear drive Iran's oil," Harf said. in exchange of some sanctions "We know it's not easy for being lifted as a final solution is these countries, but we all have worked out. done it because it's in the world's Harf said, "We are going to keep interest to put pressure on Iran to enforcing a majority of the sancget them to a diplomatic solution tions and we'll keep having these to their nuclear program." conversations.�-PTI

Tech News SBI Chairman inaugurates 27 "All Woman Branches" CHANDIGARH: Arundhati Bhattacharya, chairperson of the country's largest bank SBI, has simultaneously inaugurated 27 'all woman branches' of the lender falling in the Chandigarh circle.

On her maiden visit to Chandigarh Local Head Office of the bank, which is the controlling office of branches in the four northern states - Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Punjab - apart from union territory Chandigarh, she inaugurated the Personal Banking Branch, Sector -17 as 'All Woman Branch'.

This is one of the 27 'All Woman Branch' of the SBI in Chandigarh Circle inaugurated simultaneously

by Bhattacharya, an SBI release issued here said.

It said the bank has initiated steps to ensure that at least one 'All Woman Branch' is there for each district in the Circle.

Bhattacharya addressed the staff here and gave her roadmap for activities to be pursued to take the bank to greater heights and set new benchmarks to be achieved in near future. -PTI

Obama welcomes landmark WTO trade agreement WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama has welcomed the first-ever multilateral trade agreement in the 20-year history of the World Trade Organization noting that it will eliminate red tape and bureaucratic delay for goods shipped around the globe.

"This new deal, and particularly the new trade facilitation agreement, will eliminate red tape and bureaucratic delay for goods shipped around the globe," Obama said in a statement.

"Small businesses will be among the biggest winners, since they encounter the greatest difficulties in navigating the current system.

By some estimates, the global economic value of the new WTO deal could be worth hundreds of billions of dollars," he said.

The WTO's Bali agreement also represents the rejuvenation of the multilateral trading system that supports millions of American jobs and offers a forum for the robust enforcement of America's trade rights, he said.

"As such, we are proud of the United States' leadership role in reaching this accord and congratulate WTO Director-General Roberto Carvalho de AzevĂŞdo and our fellow WTO members on this achievement," Obama said.-PTI

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Infosys unveils sales platform TradeEdge BANGALORE: IT major Infosys has launched its sales product TradeEdge and said it is on path to achieve the target of 30 per cent revenues from such platforms, consulting and services.

"We are on our path, and certainly moving in that direction," Infosys Chairman N R Narayana Murthy told reporters here at the launch of TradeEdge, an insights-driven sales platform, which would provide visibility to global brands across the demand chain from distributors to consumers.

He said instruments like TradeEdge were very important for the company to achieve the about 30 per cent target. -PTI

Good, corruption-free governance is the message from elections NEW DELHI: Indian Inc has said the outcome of elections in the four states should be seen as a strong message to the government as well as political parties for ensuring corruption-free rule and good governance.

"Congress has been shown the door for poor political leadership and unconvincing approach to corruption," said businesswoman Kiran Mazumdar Shaw in a stern message as the poll results showed rout for the party in at least three states.

Industry chamber Assocham said: "Election results in the Assembly elections have thrown a clear message: It is the quality of governance which matters at the end of the day".

On the poll outcome, wellknown industrialist Anand Mahindra said that honesty is the best politics.

"AAP's dramatic debut shows we want desperately to be idealis-

tic and not cynical. That honesty isn't just the best policy but the best politics," he tweeted.

Impressed with Aam Aadmi

Arvind Kejriwal have walked the talk on clean politics and tasted success as a result.

Giving credit to Indian voters

Kiran Mazumdar Shaw

"Certainly, the voter may not understand the complexities of economics, but he/ she reacts rather strongly if his/her purchasing power is curtailed by inflation," Assocham Secretary General D S Rawat said.

Party's (AAP) "amazing" debut, Shaw said, "people want corruption free politics based on transparency and responsibility".

She tweeted that AAP and

for voting for governance brushing aside the traditional issues of caste and religion, Assocham said the political party that delivers on governance would actually

remain relevant.

"Certainly, the voter may not understand the complexities of economics, but he/she reacts rather strongly if his/her purchasing power is curtailed by inflation," Assocham Secretary General D S Rawat said.

PHD Chamber of Commerce & Industry said that inflation has definitely played on voters' mind as there has been price rise in vegetables and essential commodities, leading to a paradigm shift in voters' mindsets. "As an industry body, we urge the winning parties to take steps for generating employment by boosting industrial growth. This can be done by giving tax holidays and financial reforms" the association's Executive Director Saurabh Sanyal told PTI. On Delhi elections, Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) expressed hope that new state leadership would work to promote inclusive growth. -PTI

Ring sends smartphone India 98th in Forbes list on countries for biz updates to your finger WASHINGTON: Often miss out on important calls and texts because you don't notice your ringtone?

A new bluetooth-enabled wearable ring allows users to check smartphone alerts and manage in-

coming calls right from their finger.

Users can manage the settings of the gadget called Smarty Ring from a mobile app, and can even use the device as a watch, timer or

phone finder, 'Mashable' reported.

If a user walks more than 30 feet from his phone, the ring will beep to alert him that he has left something behind.

The gadget keeps users updated with incoming & outgoing call notifications and alerts for text and e-mail messages.

It also gives them real time updates from Facebook, Twitter, Hangout & Skype, according to the project website.

The stainless-steel ring has a 24-hour battery life. It is compatible with both android and iOS devices, as long as they have Bluetooth 4.0 capabilities. -PTI

NEW YORK: India has been tremely pro-business environment ranked 98th in the Forbes list of that has attracted investments by world's best countries for doing some of the world's biggest combusiness that has cited poverty, panies over the past decade, corruption and discrimination topped the list, followed by New against girls among the challenges Zealand which slipped to the secfacing the country. ond position. Hong Kong was According to the list compiled by the US publication, among the Among the BRIC econoBRIC economies, Brazil mies, Brazil was placed was placed higher at the higher at the 80th position on 80th position on the list, followed by Russia the list, followed by Russia (91st), China (94th) and (91st), China (94th) and India (98th).

India (98th).

The best countries for business was determined by grading 145 nations on third for the second straight year.

11 different factors -- property Scandinavian kingdoms of rights, innovation, taxes, technol- Denmark (4th) and Sweden (5th) ogy, corruption, freedom (per- featured highly educated sonal, trade and monetary), red workforce with GDPs per capita tape, investor protection and among the highest in the world. stock market performance.

Cont’d on page 13 Ireland, which maintains an ex-

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India reports positive hiring plans for 2014 NEW DELHI: The New Year is likely to usher in good news for job seekers in India as the country has emerged one of the most optimistic nations in the world in terms of hiring plans for the next three months.

According to the Employment Outlook Survey released today by workforce solutions major ManpowerGroup, Indian employers are anticipating a brisk hiring pace for the January-March period, especially in mining, construction and services sector.

After Taiwan, India has the second most optimistic hiring outlook globally, followed by New Zealand, Colombia and Singapore, the report said, adding that the weakest and only negative outlooks are reported in Italy, Ireland, Finland, Spain, Slovakia and Belgium.

The net employment outlook for India stood at 33 per cent indicating that job seekers may benefit from a vigorous hiring pace in the months ahead.

"India's first-quarter hiring

pace is expected to remain robust, especially in mining and construction sector where job seekers are

Rao added that the hiring pace is also expected to remain brisk in the services sector where IT tal-

expected to benefit from aggressive efforts to improve infrastructure throughout the country," said A G Rao, Group Managing Director, ManpowerGroup India.

ent continues to be aggressively recruited by both national and multinational firms.

According to the survey that covered 5,006 employers across

AI asks employees on sabbatical to return or quit MUMBAI: Five years after it had announced a sabbatical scheme for its staff to reduce the bulging salary bill, national air carrier Air India has asked the employees who had availed the scheme to either return to work or quit, say sources.

The scheme allowed them to take a minimum of two years and a maximum of five years off the job with the airline.

"The airline has recently issued a circular to its employees on sabbatical, asking them to join back duty or put in their papers as they have com-

pleted the sabbatical period," Air India sources told PTI. The salary bill of the airline is around Rs 3,000 crore per annum, accounting for around 20 per cent of the operational expenses of the

debt-laden airline.

Employees have been given time till December end to inform

the carrier of their choice, they added.

Around 213 employees mainly from the non-operational staff are currently availing the scheme, they said. The un-paid scheme was aimed at allowing staff to enhance skills.

The period for which the staff remained on sabbatical is considered as a lien which ensures that their jobs were protected if they wish to come back.

"While some of these secured jobs in others sectors, some moved to rival carriers.� -PTI

India 98th in Forbes list on countries for biz Cont’d from page 12

"India is developing into an open-market economy", Forbes said, adding that "the outlook for India's medium-term growth is positive due to a young population and corresponding low dependency ratio, healthy savings and investment rates, and increasing integration into the global economy".

The US business magazine noted, however, that "India has many long-term challenges that it

has yet to fully address."

The challenges include poverty, corruption, violence and discrimination against girls, inefficient power generation and distribution system, ineffective enforcement of intellectual property rights, inadequate transport and agricultural infrastructure, limited non-agricultural job opportunities, inadequate availability of quality basic and higher education, and accommodating rural-to-urban migration.

In terms of trade freedom, India

was ranked 128 and on monetary freedom basis it was placed at 132nd rank; property rights (55); innovation (39); technology (94); red tape (139); investor protection (32); corruption (86); personal freedom (58); tax burden (122); market performance (75).

The data for the report came from published reports from organizations like - Freedom House, Heritage Foundation, Property Rights Alliance, Transparency International, World Bank and World Economic Forum. -PTI

India, the most optimistic hiring plans are reported by employers in the mining and construction sector and the wholesale and retail trade sector with robust net employment outlooks of 38 per cent.

Compared to the previous quarter, hiring intentions have weakened in all seven industry sectors, however, year-on-year, employers report stronger hiring intentions in six of the seven industry sectors.

Employers in all four regions expect a rise in payrolls during the first quarter of 2014. The net employment outlook in the Western region stood at 36 per cent, followed by North (35 per cent), South (34 per cent) and East (30

per cent).

Meanwhile, employers across the globe expect a cautious yet positive approach to hiring for the start of 2014, despite ongoing economic uncertainty and disruptions.

Employers in 34 of 42 countries and territories expect to increase payrolls in the next three months, compared to 29 in the fourth quarter of 2013.

"Employers in many parts of the world anticipate mostly modest payroll gains, which may nevertheless be a sign of some gathering hiring momentum as we head into 2014," Manpower Group Chairman and CEO Jeffrey A Joerres said. -PTI

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India is high priority in Asia business: Deutsche SINGAPORE: Global exchange operator Deutsche Boerse and Eurex has said that India is a high priority in its Asian business development strategy and it is expanding alliances and education programs with institutions there.

"India is an important part in our Asia road map, given that Asia is a priority for DB Group when it comes to business development," Uwe Schweickert, Director and head of Executive Office at Eurex told PTI. The group has worked out several programs including the distribution of its market data products in India and Indian market data products on the global markets, Schweickert said at the recent FIA Asia Derivatives conference here.

He said Eurex was working to further develop Indian market through its strategic partnership

with Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) which had recently installed the Frankfurt- based bourse's latest technology for trading, T-7.

The group has worked out several programs including the distribution of its market data products in India and Indian market data products on the global markets The T-7 based platform has upgraded BSE's trading system to global standards and was part of technology and knowhow sharing alliance with Eurex. It went live

on November 28.

Schweickert said it would remain a major technology breakthrough for the BSE and strengthen relationships with the Frankfurt group. Deutsche Boerse holds 5 per cent stake in BSE. "I believe this gives BSE a technology edge in the Indian market.

It is a cost efficient set up for BSE," Schweickert said, adding: "Our objective is to support BSE to build up a derivatives market of international standard. This is what we want to promote as an international derivatives exchange."

The group is also set to sign a deal with S P Jain Institute to train students in trading and participating in all aspects of the global markets. Eurex and the institute are scheduled to set up a simulation trading laboratory in Mumbai.

Singapore firm provides solar chargers in rural India SINGAPORE: Singapore-based solar charger maker, Third Wave Power, expects a strong demand for its power packages in rural India.

"We expect demand for portable solar charges to reach a high of 40 million units in the next five

Hariharan said the company's initial survey of India's rural market for portable solar charges shows demand would come from places away from the main electricity grid or even those within the power network but facing chronic shortage of electricity

But India remains a unique market for Third Wave. "There is constant need for recharging mobiles/cells but it was becoming more challenging in rural areas, especially those having to work away from power grids,� he pointed out years in rural India, including small towns," Third Wave's co-founder and chief executive officer V S Hariharan said here.

Present demand is nominal in the range of a few thousand pieces a year, he said.

supplies.

Based on such high potential demand, Third Wave has designed light solar chargers which include necessities such as flash light and radio in every piece.

"We can charge these solar panels anywhere in the sun and then use it to re-charge mobile phones and other light-power consuming instruments," Hariharan told PTI. The Indian market is a major model for the company which exports its light-weight solar chargers to markets in Asia, Europe and the United States.

It is also designed for use during typhoons and distress environment after natural calamities, when power supplies are disrupted even in developed countries.

But India remains a unique market for Third Wave. "There is constant need for recharging mobiles/cells but it was becoming more challenging in rural areas, especially those having to work away from power grids,� he pointed out.

These mobile phone users include farmers and healthcare workers in remotest regions, fishermen on high seas as well as campers on hills, among others.

In some smaller towns and dwellings, an increasing number of people were willing to pay from Rs 5 to Rs 15 for recharging their mobile phones, noted Hariharan.

He cited an industry report showing rural area mobile phone users accounting for 54 per cent of the 55.48 crore total cells in the country.

Hariharan backed his market estimation, pointing out that some 80,000 villages in India were without electricity. -PTI

"We will provide free real time data and also support the financing for the lab," said Roland Schwinn, Executive Director and

The cooperation will expand the DB group's ongoing plans, which include Eurex seminars and training sessions held across major Indian cities to build a base of efficient traders. head of business development for Asia & the Middle East in Eurex's Singapore office.

The cooperation will expand the DB group's ongoing plans,

which include Eurex seminars and training sessions held across major Indian cities to build a base of efficient traders.

"We want to make sure that the students know about the international markets and local markets at the very young age," said Markus Georgi, Senior Vice President in Eurex's Hong Kong office. He is responsible for the Indian market as head of business development in Asia and the Middle East.

In October, Deutsche Boerse Market Data + Services and BSE formed a partnership under which Deutsche Boerse acts as the exclusive licensor of BSE market data and information products to all international clients.

The cooperation is expected to benefit customers by giving them access to both exchanges market data products under a single license agreement. -PTI

Tata Chemicals to cut 220 jobs in Europe NEW DELHI: Tata Chemicals has said it will restructure its European business by closing the soda ash and calcium chloride plants at Winnington in the UK due to rising energy costs, a move that will lead to 220 job losses.

Tata Chemicals Europe (TCE), a wholly owned subsidiary of Tata Chemicals, is the UK's sole manufacturer and supplier of soda ash and sodium bicarbonate. It also makes and supplies salt and operates from three sites in Cheshire: Winnington a n d Lostock in Northwich a n d Middlewich.

T h e company's soda ash and sodium bicarbonate business in Northwich are being restructured, TCE said in a statement on its website.

"The restructuring, which is necessitated by high energy costs, will see the closure of Winnington soda ash and calcium chloride plants and a loss of 220 jobs," according to the statement.

"The closures are necessary to secure the future of TCE's remaining soda ash and sodium bicarbonate manufacturing business and around 250 jobs directly and

many more associated jobs in the local Cheshire and wider regional economy," Mumbai-based Tata Chemicals said in a BSE filing.

"We expect to be able to restrict the number of compulsory redundancies to 75 through redeployment and voluntary redundancies and TCE will be providing a significantly enhanced redundancy package and a comprehensive outplacement program to assist employees leaving the business,"

TCE Managing Director Martin Ashcroft said in the statement.

Production at the Winnington plants is expected to stop during the fourth quarter of the 2013-14 financial year.

TCE, formerly known as Brunner, Mond and Company, was founded in 1873 and was a part of Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) when it formed in 1926. It was divested from ICI in 1991 and acquired by Tata Chemicals in 2006. -PTI

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Desi News MKCA announces 12th Nathal Fest celebration VISSIA D'SOUZA

CHICAGO: The most wonderful time of the year is here. The Christmas Season brings many reasons to be thankful, to gather and celebrate. So is Manglorean Koknani Christian Association (MKCA) announcing its 12th Nathal Fest celebrations in Chicagoland in USA. This annual celebrations will be held on Saturday December 21, at 6 p.m, at Sher-A-Punjab Banquet Hall in Downers Grove, south side suburb of Chicago.

All are welcome to join MKCA and spread the joy of sharing and caring. There will be homemade Kuswar for sale to reminiscence the back home memories and satisfy the mangi taste buds. All proceeds this year will be sent to victims of Typhoon Haiyan in Philippines.

Blanket drive as Bay Area braces for cold temps VIDYA SETHURAMAN India Post News Service

SUNNYVALE, CA: On any given night, there are more than 200 homeless men, women and children in shelters and on the streets in Sunnyvale. As the winter cold settles in, Community Seva had its first Blanket Drive to help meet the needs of Sunnyvale's homeless population.

They distributed around 100 new blankets to those in needs at the Homeless Shelter on Sunday, December 8 from 7 pm to 8.30 p.m.

Details on page 25

Night of songs highlights Rajasthani Diwali SURENDRA ULLAL

CHICAGO: Rajasthanis from all over Chicagoland gathered to celebrate Diwali in the annual Diwali Milan function at the Ashton Place in Willowbrook last month. With well over 325 guests in attendance, the event was a hit.

Among the special guests and dignitaries present were Illinois State Treasurer Dan Rutherford, senior policy advisor to Governor Quinn Theresa Mah, Bolingbrook Mayor Roger Claar and Air India Manager Rishikant Singh.

Details on page 22

COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA

NY NRIs celebrate Sonia Gandhi's birthday Details on page 24

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December 13, 2013

Indian Americans remember Mandela as beacon of peace & human rights SURENDRA ULLAL, SURESH SHAH & RAMESH SOPARAWALA

CHICAGO: All humans are mortal but a few live beyond their physical life because of their deeds and hence are immortal. Nelson Mandela, a nonagenarian leader from South Africa, was one such figure. A legend in his own way, he was great in life but has turned out to be much greater after his death.

He passed away battling multiple ailments recently leaving behind him a beautiful legacy that mankind would cherish for years to come.

Members of Indian community across USA mourn his death - the Chicagoland Indian being no exception - with some having personal touch with him while most though no direct connection, feel as if they have lost a part of their extended family. India Post, as its wont, has touch based with Indian Americans and shares their reactions herewith: NIRANJAN SHAH, CEO Globetrotter Eng Corporation and former head of Federation of Indian Associations, said: "I met Mr Mandela in October of 2001, when I had the privilege to visit South Africa with then President Bill Clinton. Lot can be said and observed about a person who will be remembered for generations to come.

As a part of our trip was a tour of Robin Island where Mr Mandela and six others were kept in prison.

Our tour guide was Mr Ahmad Kathrada, a person of Indian origin, Chair of Robin Island Foundation and one of the six inmate in prison convicted with Mr Mandela at "Trial of Treason".

The mere thought of spending 27 precious years of life in a virtual solitary confinement that Mr Mandela endured was a heart wrenching experience. He shared with us his experiences in prison. However the most striking fact remains in my heart even today is how the ruling class was at its worst in practicing apartheid. They had different standards even in prison for Asians and Africans and of

course, whites. Asians were provided better rations than blacks but not as good as white prisoners. Even the prison clothes were different. Whites were given full pants.

Asians were given just below their knees and Africans (blacks) were give shorts which would barely cover their knees. They did not consider blacks to be men.

(Of course Gandhi changed some of it but it is still there significantly). We salute Mr Mandela for the strength of his character, very high spirit and commitment to liberate not only his people but being a role model for all oppressed men and women around the globe.

"The Government of India presented him with 'Bharat Ratna' in 2006 and to say the least, not only

"His Jailors came to Love and Respect him, for Respect is earned. His oppressors came to Understand and Trust him, because trust, like Respect, is earned. His followers came to Believe in a Better tomorrow, because he taught his Nation to Love instead of Hate!�

They considered them boys. One cannot imagine the mental degradation.

"Unfortunately the British did the same in India among government employees, Maharajas and general public. Each group getting slightly better treatment felt privileged. And yet each group was treated as a second class citizen.

he richly deserved but in fact it was the Indian government which honored itself by presenting him with the Award."

ANIL GOPAL, President of St Louis Asian Indian Business Association, was raised in South Africa the nation that Nelson Mandela was born in. He has sent a poetic tribute in Mandela's honor that is given below.

"Our Dear Madiba, RIP! "A quiet time for us to remember and celebrate the life of a Great Man, a Father to a Nation and a Wonderful Human Being.

"Nelson Mandela proved to a Nation and the World that Dialogue and Reconciliation

Nelson Mandela

brings better outcomes than anger and hatred.

"His Jailors came to Love and Respect him, for Respect is earned.

"His oppressors came to Understand and Trust him, because trust, like Respect, is earned.

"His followers came to Believe in a Better tomorrow, because he taught his Nation to Love instead of Hate!

"Unity instead of Separation; Peace instead of Hate; Love instead of Bitterness; Truth and Reconciliation instead of Revenge.

"How Blessed we are that we live in a time, where everyone can discover his experiences, and his journey! Communication has made this all possible, now if the whole world can replicate this message of Humanity, we will experience a True Blessing!

"We will miss this Great Humanitarian, and we can honor him by applying his principles to our lives.

"God Bless You Madiba! Aum Peace, Peace, Peace!"

AJIT GANDHI, a prominent financial planner, said "certainly one of the best leaders ever has left this world. Three comparisons come to my mind. First, one commonality with Mahatma Gandhi he exhibited was that he kept away from the Presidency of South Africa after serving only one term.

Nobody would have stopped him if he had decided to continue.

Mahatma Gandhi, of course, did not assume official power at all.

Second, what hard labor he must have gone thru in prison can be compared with the hard labor which Veer Saavarkar went thru in prison under British rule. Third, like Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, he too fought against untouchability/ apartheid & both were honored with the Bharat Ratna award in the same year and both passed away on December 6.

DIAL GIDWANEY, President The American Institute of Sindhulogy (AIS) said that AIS, its board members and supporters are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr Nelson Mandela, South Africa's first post-apartheid president and Nobel Peace Prize winner.

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December 13, 2013

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Welcoming a change in India political scenario SURESH SHAH

CHICAGO: It was a grand victory celebration. Overseas Friends of BJP gathered in large number at short notice at Gayatri Mandir in Itasca to celebrate the assembly elections victory of BJP, a leading Indian political party, aiming to end corruption and ensure good governance in India.

As reports trickled in from India about the outcome of State Assembly elections in Delhi, Chhattisgarh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, BJP marched ahead of its political rivals with large majority and this triggered a grand celebration by the Overseas Friends of BJP. Many supporters of BJP flocked in to be part of the celebrations that showcased optimism that the Indian voters back home are slowly realizing that there is an urgent need to end the misrule of the hotch-potch parties in the country of their origin.

Addressing the meet, Nirav Patel, a young member of OFBJP and Convener for Global India Bharat Vikas Forum, observed, "This is not the end, but a beginning and we still want to see Narendra Modi as PM in India."

BJP supporters celebrating BJP victories in Indian Assembly elections

BJP party faces many challenges but finally it is gaining tremendous support from public winning local assembly elections. He added, "We believe the year 2014 will be last year of Congress rule in India and under the leadership of Narendra Modi, BJP will get full

majority in parliamentary election."

Many in the gathering felt that the coming parliamentary election is not only election but it will be "Dharma Yuddh" against Congress rule as Indians are fed up of Congress corruption and scams.

The consensus was that Narendra

Modi has vision to lead India and he will be a global leader. Pitching for extending support by NRIs across the globe for the 2014 election campaign, the meet concluded by setting guidelines for the support.

NRIs can do many things

within permissible legal boundaries like making phone calls, letter writing to their friends and family and go to India for boosting the election campaign. "This is a great chance we have to change India, and we have to grab that," said Nirav.

Among community leaders attending this event were Dr Bharat Barai, Dr Indrajit, Jitendra Digvenkar, Harendra Mangrola, Parakram Singh, Haribhai Patel, Kalpesh Desai, Amar Upadhya, Veenu Chaudhry, Tilesh Patel, Shrinivas Kompale, Kamlesh Patel, Ketan Raval, Jayantilal Patel among others. Dr Barai also addressed the gathering and congratulated the BJP leaders in India for their excellent show in elections. Jitendra Digvenkar, an activist, said, "I strongly believe winning is not everything, it is the only thing now for ushering in much needed change."

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Indian Americans remember Mandela as beacon of peace & human rights Cont’d from page 18

"Recognized as the father of his nation as well as a universal symbol of peace and reconciliation, he will be remembered for the personal sacrifices he made to bring freedom to South Africa. Future generations will know him - along with Mahatma Gandhi and Dr Martin Luther King - as one of the great twentieth century nonviolent freedom fighters and humanitarians.

DR BHARAT BARAI, a prominent Oncologist and Trustee Manav Seva Mandir, said that Nelson Mandela was a giant of our times. "He was a true Gandhian, who went to jail for 17 years but did not keep bitterness towards the white Afrikkaners. His peaceful and level headed approach made the transition from Apartheid to democracy, peaceful and congenial. Unlike many African countries that are in chaos after independence, South Africa has become an economy to reckon with.

Hope his people respect and honor his legacy by continuing on the path with peace and wisdom.

DR HARSH KUMAR, noted

ist, said that Nelson Mandela. A man of many achievements, his winning the Nobel Peace Prize was an inspiration to billions, Mandela was very humble, forgiving and selfless with no chip on his shoulder. Little wonder there is no one like Nelson Mandela a true fighter and promise keeper for the common man.

He always put the people first not his personal agendas. These days countries are struggling because leaders are selfish. It is no longer about the people, but for Dr Mandela, against all odds, it was about the people of South Africa and the whole world stands tall with his message of love and forgiveness.

I have never seen such a humble man, and yet so clever. But most of all he was a father to millions of people. Every child in India, Germany, China, Italy, America and Africa they all know and love this man as a hero. I felt so sad when I heard of the passing of such an amazing Statesman of the World.

However, today I also feel so grateful that he was an influence throughout a large part of world and world leaders' life. The ex-

Mandela was very humble, forgiving and selfless with no chip on his shoulder. Little wonder there is no one like Nelson Mandela a true fighter and promise keeper for the common man. He always put the people first not his personal agendas.

Cardiologist and President of Grays Lake Hindu Temple, said that Nelson Mandela was the most influential statesman of our time.

He was the true follower of the Gandhian philosophy of non-violence. He became the victorious statesman with his lifelong struggle against apartheid.

After spending 27 years in a solitary confinement, he became the first black president of South Africa (1994 to 1999). He was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace in 1993 'for their work for the peaceful termination of apartheid.'

"Our people lost a father" were the words spoken by the current president of South Africa, Mr Jacob Zuma in his memory.

The absence of Nelson Mandela's physical presence should not extinguish the bright light that will keep on shining around the world for generations to come.

J DIGVENKAR, President Rang Inc, and a community activ-

ample he set the world was one of total forgiveness in the face of adversity. He is a true example of how we all need to appreciate our global planet and live in harmony as one big family.

NAREN PATEL, CEO MedStar and National vice president Association of Indians in America, said that Nelson Mandela, a great antiapartheid icon who became the first president of a democratic South Africa, changed the world for better upholding human dignity and human rights.

A Nobel laureate and human rights campaigner, he was also a great social activist. A person jailed for 27 years, after coming out of jail was not even mad and won't say anything bad about the people who put him in prison. Persons like him come to this world once in millennium. May God keep his soul in Peace.

OMPRAKASH KAMARIA, Chairman Gandhi Memorial Trust, observed that Mahatma Gandhi

commenced his non violent struggle for human dignity and freedom in South Africa and it blossomed and fructified in India with the nation getting Independence from British Yoke.

cago, said that "by the time most of us retire and seek a peaceful and quiet life, Nelson Mandela at the age 75 picked up the rein of a nation badly divided by decades of apartheid policies and practices

Nelson Mandela revisits his prison cell on Robben Island in 1994

Picking up the same thread Nelson Mandela waged struggle to end Apartheid and fought for equal treatment for non whites in South Africa. Ultimately the White ruled government had to give up power and its jungle based laws.

Both lived their lives for our freedom and they would be all alive whenever the fight for human dignity is waged.

RAJAN ZED, President of Universal Society of Hinduism, said that Leaders of various religions and denominations gathered on December 8 in Reno (Nevada, USA) in memory of Nobel laureate Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, who died on December 5 in Johannesburg.

Zed said that this multi-faith service included prayers and reflections by Christian (various denominations), Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Jewish, Baha'i leaders.

Multi-faith leaders acknowledged

of the White government." The divide among people was great and any ordinary man would shiver and could take the nation in a wrong direction. Not so Nelson Mandel and thus, he proved to be a beacon of light to many of us seniors. The greatest tribute that we can pay to him is to try to live to the standard that he has set right vision, right words and right action. May God rest this beautiful Soul in Peace.

RISHIKANT SINGH, Manager-Midwest Air India said "We deeply mourn the passing away of a true icon of peace in the from of Nelson Mandela. His commitment to freedom of all subjugated people, the true values of democracy, peaceful co-existence and the personal suffering he braved is unparalleled. Such a sincere and spiritual soul's departure will leave a void in the hearts of a whole generation.

His famous quotes will always be the source of inspiration and motivation for generations to come, like: Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world; A good head and good mind are always a formidable combination that Nelson Mandela set a milestone for the world with his efforts in pluralism, common ground, equality, color-blindness and coexistence.

RAMANLAL PATEL, President of United Senior Pariwar, Chi-

We hope and pray that the path of ideals, sacrifice, love of his people he has lived, will inspire us and all future generations to follow in his footsteps of brotherly love, forgiveness and peace that he practiced through

his difficult life.

We pray eternal rest to his soul in the merciful resting place in heaven.

RITA SINGH President FIA said "Members of my organization and I mourn the death of Nelson Mandela - a great leader, freedom fighter and a true patriot. Mr Mandela is also known as Gandhi of South Africa like our Father of Nation Mahatma Gandhi. He led the freedom struggle in South Africa and had to pay the price by getting imprisoned for 27 years. At this moment of grief I would like to pay my tribute to this Great leader and pray to God that his soul may rest in Peace.

SUNIL SHAH, founder President FIA (new) observed that the Noble Prize winner and first former black President of S Africa has left for his heavenly abode but his indomitable spirit, courage and leadership will remain in our hearts forever.

His famous quotes will always be the source of inspiration and motivation for generations to come, like: Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world; A good head and good mind are always a formidable combination; For to be free is not merely to cast off one's chains but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.

Champion of human rights, peace, social injustice and human rights, he will forever rule the hearts of millions.

THAKAR BASATI, Associate Director Legal Shield, said that Nelson Mandela demonstrated to the world that any one can achieve what one dreams off. A simple man who stood his ground for what he believed is right, even though he had to go through lot of hardship and trouble. And he succeeded. Hardships came in his way in numbers but he won ultimately. He showed the world that all you have to do is to have vision, believe in God and yourself.

The whole world is mourning his passing away and the reason is his love for human dignity and freedom. There is so much to learn from his sacrifice and his achievement. He never believed in revenge. His smile was contagious.

Long live Mandela.

WORLD HINDU COUNCIL OFAMERICA (VHPA) in a release says that Nelson Mandela symbolizes a beacon to the path of Dharma, a commitment to right action without consideration of consequence.

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Overseas Friends of BJP felicitate Dr Prem Raj KEERTHI RAVOORI

CHICAGO: Overseas Friends of BJP [OFBJP] in conjunction with FIA-Chicago leaders hosted a rousing welcome reception dinner in honor of Dr Prem Raj, a prominent BJP State Executive Member and an Andhra Pradesh leader on Sunday December 2 at Mysore Woodland on Devon Ave, in Chicago.

The event attracted Chicago's commu-

scarf [khandwa] emblazoned with lotus flower while Mafat Patel, often described as uncrowned King of Devon, presented a special commemorative silver coin.

Iftekhar Shareef who hosted the welcome-dinner reception welcomed the guest and offered him a tradition shawl. He described him as a shining leader of the local masses in Hyderabad (Ranga Reddy District) of Andhra Pradesh and pointed out that he is greatly esteemed by the people for his steadfast public service and for providing hope, help and inspiration to the local population.

Andhra Pradesh leader Dr Prem Raj addressing community Shareef observed elites in Chicago that Dr Prem, with outstanding politinity and business leaders including Dr cal acumen, is poised to emerge as a state Indrajit Patel, Prahald Patil, Veenod Patel, leader in the next election.

Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, Minhaj Akhtar In his 30-minute inspiring address, Dr Raj (Jameel), Hemant Brahmbhat, Ashfaq lambasted the inept and corrupt governAhmed , Vijay Ranjan, Srinivas Kompally, ment that is currently governing India and Nirav Patel, Sher Rajput among others. narrated in harrowing details as to how the A medical doctor by profession and ac- common masses are put to untold pain and tive grassroots political leader in suffering by their failed policies, poor govShamshabad, Dr Prem Raj was warmly feted ernance and lack of responsibility and transCont’d on page 22 with Dr Bharat Barai presenting a saffron parency.

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Night of songs highlights Rajasthani Diwali SURENDRA ULLAL

CHICAGO: Rajasthanis from all over Chicagoland gathered to celebrate Diwali in the annual Diwali Milan function at the Ashton Place in Willowbrook last month. With well over 325 guests in attendance, the event was a hit.

Among the special guests and dignitaries present were Illinois State Treasurer Dan Rutherford, senior policy advisor to Governor Quinn Theresa Mah, Bolingbrook Mayor Roger Claar and Air India Manager Rishikant Singh.

Avani Puri, Governor Representative Theresa Mha and Suman Saini

Bollingbrook Mayor Roger Claar welcomed with garland

Kids recognized for their achievements. Standing behind kids are (L-R) Supriya Somani, Ram Saini, Ami Parikh and Falguni Rana

Each special guest was welcomed with a flower garland and a rice/vermillion mark placed on the forehead. Led by its president, Ram Saini, the highlight of the event was night of songs by Kathakali Dasgupta and dances from the Suhani Dance Academy with Falguni Rana, its director and choreographer.

The Master of Ceremonies Gaurav Arora and Sapna Malani hosted the event with a welcome note from Ram Saini. This was followed by a mixture of songs and dances, including Bollywood medley by Priya, Sudrania Sonam Jain and Soniya Arora and eight participants from the Academy. There was also a Rajasthani Goomar performed by Supriya Somani.

After Aarti to start the function,

Overseas Friends of BJP felicitate Dr Prem Raj Cont’d from page 21

He predicted that rapidly changing political landscape in India will send a resounding victory to reestablish BJP governance. He said that results from the recent five state elections will clearly put BJP on the top in its race towards the 2014 general elections.

With this new wave of political change, Dr Prem Raj stressed it will catapult Narendra Modi to the prime ministerial position compelled by the rising tides of unabated corruption, poor governance. Dr Prem Raj asserted Hindutva is not a religion but a way of life.

Touching upon the AndhraTelangana imbroglio, he said there is no bifurcation - it is a matter of reestablishing the Telangana state as it was originally in 1948. He castigated the misapprehension that BJP/NDA is averse to minorities particularly Muslims and Christians. He reiterated that the NDA government was secular in spirit and had launched several

schemes and policies that were legislated to give impetus to the minority communities in India, which have and will benefit from them.

the masses in India." He added that the policies of BJP pitch for people-centric governance.

Among others who spoke in welcoming Dr Prem Raj were Babu

llinois Treasurer Dan Rutherford addressing the gathering

Rishi and Riddhi Saini recited prayers followed by a series of dances mixed with speeches by the three special guests of the night. An open fashion show was held for the children who graced the stage as well. Another highlight of the show was savoring of the scrumptious food.

Ushering in New Year by members of Rajasthani Association

Indian Americans remember Nelson Mandela Cont’d from page 20

Dr Prem Raj accepting silver coin presented to him during Fete

Welcoming the visiting leader, Dr Bharat Barai outlined why he supports NDA governmental policies. "They are designed to uplift

Marsha Patel. Amar Uphadyay also addressed the gathering and Bhailal Patel proposed a vote of thanks.

The organization has big goals for the future, including the youth, as highlighted by the president, Ram Saini, who said "I want to thank my committee for all of their hard work and I encourage all Rajasthani people to join ARA as we further our organization into the future."

"During his 27 years of imprisonment, he bonded with his Hindu fellow inmates at the prison, particularly when Hindu priests would make ceremonial visits.

He noted this in a 1991 speech commemorating Diwali, just over a year after his release from prison: "Diwali brings back for me memories of days on Robben Island....It humbles me to be associated with a festival that goes back over 5000 years. We have been engaged in the battle against the forces of darkness along lines similar in the Hindu scriptures. The policies of apartheid and its creator, the National Party have inflicted serious damage on the country and its people."

Addressing South African Hin-

dus, he said: "We are committed to building bridges and helping to embrace all of humanity under one umbrella and move forward in strength and confidence to a better future.

We believe that this is not different from what Hindu scriptures have also been saying: knowledge over ignorance; good health and well being over disease and ill health; (and) freedom over bondage. In our struggle we will be celebrating this triumph together. But we have a difficult road to walk before we can claim that victory for us all in this country.

Sincere respects to the noble and compassionate Sri Nelson Mandela on behalf of the World Hindu Council of America (VHPA).

May his soul find peace in its onward journey.

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December 13, 2013

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Epics brought to life through dance ASHWIN PATEL

ST LOUIS: Dances of India, a St Louis based Indian classical dance company, presented a spectacle of color, rhythm, and creativity for their 36th Anniversary Performance in St. Louis MO on the weekend of November 16-17. his institution of Indian classical dance - known for pushing

gnettes from the Ramayana & Mahabharat, connecting them in a philosophical, yet light-hearted sequence. The dance-drama posed the question: What is the secret of immortality? Answer: The stories that live forever. The creativity of execution, the whimsical choreography, and perfectly

the quintessential Hindu myth of Radha's search for Krishna through the lens of a modern Indian woman in a city and a traditional Indian woman in a village.

This piece was performed by Theckla Mehta, who choreographed Secrets of the Indian Storybook, and Nartana

of India, Asha Prem, choreographed many rhythmic group and solo traditional dances with her signature touch - intriguing, dynamic, use of space. Dancers were very coordinated, and moved on-and-off stage in a precise, crisp, effervescent, cadence.

Guest artists Sanjay Shantaram

muscle throughout his piece, a true embodiment of masculine grace.

Additional guest performers included Shruti Upadhyay of St. Louis, who presented a heartfelt, devotional dance about the baby Krishna in the Kalakshetra style of Bharata Natyam, and Priya Suri, a Washington University student

Classical dance performance depicting Ramayan & Mahabharat

boundaries in their choreography without ever compromising on the intrinsic elegance and dignity of Bharata Natyam - embraced both the old and the new in their performance.

Secrets of the Indian Storybook presented four little-known vi-

coordinated, colorful costumes, all came together for a splendid vehicle through which the company could showcase the talent of its dancers.

Another short dance drama, simply entitled Radha, pushed boundaries further by exploring

Premachandra, who wrote and narrated both dance-dramas over music. Radha, while certainly having a very modern feel, paid homage to the beautiful, mystical depth of this most iconic of Hindu myths.

The Artistic Director of Dances

of Bangalore, India - a master of his craft - performed three Bharata Natyam pieces while Patrick Suzeau, a contemporary dancer from the University of LawrenceKansas, performed a breathtaking piece of classical Odissi. He maintained control of every single

who presented an unusual piece about Nataraja dancing on his left foot instead of his right to please a devotee.

All in all, Dances of India succeeded in presenting its 36th Anniversary Performance with panache and professionalism.

Outrage over beer named after Lord Shiva SURENDRA ULLAL

CHICAGO: A majority of Indian Americans across USA have expressed dismay and anger over the defiling of the image of Lord Shiva by a North Carolina brewery which has branded its beer on the name of the deity.

It is not only Hindus who are upset but they have been supported by members of other faiths too, says Rajan Zed, president of

Father Stephen R. Karcher

protest campaign against "Whip In" a restaurant and bar in Austin, TX, USA for caricaturing Hindu deities to sell alcohol.

Madhu Patel, founding President of NRI Press Club here, said that it has become a fashion for a host of western companies to use and misuse the names and images of Hindu deities while marketing their products and "Hindus now

Jikai' Phil Bryan

the Universal Society of Hinduism. "In a remarkable interfaith gesture, Christian-Buddhist-Jewish leaders have backed Hindus upset over Indian Pale Ale beer brewed in Asheville (North Carolina, USA) carrying the name-image of Hindu deity Lord Shiva," he said in statement in Nevada.

American Hindus Against Defamation (AHAD), sponsored

by World Hindu Council of America (VHPA) has launched a

Rajan Zed

ing beer for mercantile greed. He decried this beer, named as "Shiva", displaying the image of Lord Shiva in Nataraja form.

Sohan Joshi, President of National Federation of Indian Americans along with Rajan Zed and hundreds of other Indian Americans across USA, have appealed to the Asheville based Asheville Brewing Co. to apologize and

Rabbi Elizabeth W. Beyer

need to unite and wage a strong protest over their nefarious activities the same way that members of other faiths do when their revered deities or prophets have their names smeared."

Subscribing to this view, Nand Kapur, former president of Association of Indians in America said that Lord Shiva is highly revered in Hinduism, meant to be worshipped in temples or home shrines and not to be used in sell-

Sohan Joshi

friends who are distressed to see their revered Shiva portrayed on the side of a beer can. This shows a complete absence of cultural sensitivity and religious awareness, and is degrading not only to Hindu people but to all who take faith seriously and practice it freely in our great nation."

Richard L. Smith, a highly respected United Church of Christ

Nand Kapur

withdraw its Indian Pale Ale beer bearing the image of Lord Shiva, calling it highly disgusting and inappropriate.

Rajan Zed said that the enlightened souls in other religions have sided with Hindus voicing their disapproval of this act. Father Stephen R. Karcher, prominent Greek Orthodox Christian clergyman in Nevada and adjoining California, in a statement said, "I sympathize with our Hindu

Madhu Patel

pastor, in a statement noted: "I support the protests of Hindus who are offended by the name and image of the god Shiva being used to sell ale, just as I would be if a winery decided to name one of its products 'Sangre de Christo.' I urge the Asheville Brewing to find another approach."

Well known Buddhist minister Jikai' Phil Bryan, in a note to Rajan Zed, said: "I agree completely with

your objection to the use of Lord Shiva as the name of a beer‌It will be to the great credit of the brewing company to honor your request and change the name of the beer. I trust they will hear your message and respond sensitively to it."

Rabbi Elizabeth W. Beyer, Jewish leader in Nevada and California, argues that inappropriate placing of a religious group's deity is a serious affront to the many Hindus who worship Shiva. "We fully back Zed's initiative on this issue." Luther James DuPree Junior, a Bishop in the Church of God in Christ, has also supported Hindus disturbed over the trivialization of their revered deity.

Asheville Brewing, launched in 1995, offers three locations in Asheville; which besides brewery, also includes restaurants and Dine-In Theater; and distributes its beers in stores and restaurants in Western North Carolina. It describes Shiva beer as "crisp, citrusy" and adds "Your palette will be lifted to higher planes of consciousness". It is also available in 12 ounce cans and 22 ounce bottles. Asheville, incorporated in 1797, has reportedly reigned as the champion "Beer City USA" each year from 2009 to 2012.

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NY NRIs celebrate Sonia Gandhi's birthday PM SWAMY

NEW YORK: Registering for bone marrow transplant, blood donation drive, organ donor programs, cancer screening and awareness drive marked celebration of 66th birthday of Congress President Sonia Gandhi organized

by Indian National Overseas Congress, Tamil Nadu Chapter in Hicksville in Long Island, New York on December 7.

Vazhapadi Rama Suganthan, a

Youth Congress leader, representing the Tamil Nadu Pradesh Congress Committee as a guest of honor, joined the INOC leaders in cutting a huge cake to mark the celebrations. The birthday celebrations are postponed in India due to five-day State morning due to the passing away of Nelson Mandela in South Africa.

George Abraham, Chairperson of the INOC, Shudh Parkash

Members of Indian National Overseas Congress flanking Vazhapadi Rama Suganthan (center) celebrate the birthday of Sonia Gandhi by cutting a cake in Long Island, New York

Singh, President of INOC, said NRIs prayed for the welfare of Mrs. Gandhi and portrayed her as modern Mother India who is serving the children of the nation with love and affection.

Pakistani movie actress Meera, Kanwal Sra, treasurer of INOC, Anand Ahuja, president of NRI Interface, Kalathil Varughese, president of Kerala chapter and others praised the services of Sonia Gandhi on the happy occa-

sion.

Dr Leno Thomas, a leading oncologist in New York, gave a lecture on cancer prevention and Saranya Radhakrishnan spoke on the importance of South Asians getting involved in bone marrow registry.

John Joseph, president of Tamil Nadu chapter, welcomed the gathering and Koshy Oommen, secretary of Tamil Nadu chapter, proposed a vote of thanks.

Hindu Temple Chicago elects new Board India Post News Service

CHICAGO: The Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago (NTGC) held its Annual General Body Meeting and elections of Trustees on Sunday December 1 without rancor and lot of goodwill.

Two incumbent trustees Tilak Marwaha, President 2013 and Tambarahalli Sridhara, Treasurer 2013 along with Smt Aruna Katta and Mokshagundum Jayaram were elected as Board of Trustees to serve a four-year term beginning January 1, 2014.

Later in the day, Executive Committee members for the year 2014 were selected with Lingareddy Bhima Reddy as president, Tilak Marwaha as Vice President, Smt Prasanna Reddy

as Secretary, Lakshmana Mittur as Joint Secretary, Smt Renuka Reddy as Treasurer and Tambarahalli Sridhara as Joint treasurer for the year 2014.

Sri Tilak Marwaha acknowledged and honored the outgoing trustees Dr Viswanatha Reddy and Smt Shashi Kaveti for serving the board and temple for the past four years. Bhima Reddy thanked the outgoing President, Tilak Marwaha, the Executive Committee and Board of Trustees for all the improvements and achievements in the year 2013.

The 2014 Executive Committee is committed to making the temple debt free and self-supporting and serving the community with religious, spiritual, cultural, yoga and Sunday school activities.

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December 13, 2013

Community Across America

India Post 25

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Blanket drive as Bay Area braces for cold temps VIDYA SETHURAMAN India Post News Service

SUNNYVALE, CA: On any given night, there are more than 200 homeless men, women and children in shelters and on the streets in Sunnyvale. As the winter cold settles in, Community Seva had its first Blanket Drive to help meet the needs of Sunnyvale's homeless population.

They distributed around 100 new blankets to those in needs at the Homeless Shelter on Sunday, December 8 from 7 pm to 8.30 p.m.

"This project is our first blanket drive that provides for the basic needs of the homeless in our area," said Nathan Ganesan, Founder of Community Seva.

"Whether they are staying in shelters or on the streets, our homeless individuals and families need

a way to battle the winter weather.

When we can meet these basic needs first, we can build relationships with those in need to offer further assistance."

The Community Seva is a non-profit organization, which was founded in order to provide effective and empowering support to persons who are in need.

Give the gift of safety during the Holidays India Post News Service

ROSEMEAD, CA: As families decorate for the holidays, Southern California Edison (SCE) has urged its customers to ensure the experience is joyous by always being aware of power lines when adorning outdoors. They also are encouraged to avoid shock and fire hazards such as frayed electrical cords and overloaded outlets.

With people decorating their homes for the holidays, it is imperative to practice electrical safety, such as not throwing light strands or electrical cords into trees near power lines or on utility poles, not using decorative lighting with broken fuses or light bulbs and keeping electrical connections away from moisture.

"The joy that festive decorations bring can lead people to overlook their potential dangers," said Bill Messner, principal manager of Health and Safety at SCE. "It is vital that families follow instructions, inspect decorations and practice safety to minimize the risk of electric shock, fires or injuries."

U.S. fire departments respond

to an average of 230 home fires annually that start with Christmas trees, resulting in an average of six deaths, 22 injuries and $18.3 million in property damage, according to the National Fire Protection Association. About 5,800

With people decorating their homes for the holidays, it is imperative to practice electrical safety, such as not throwing light strands or electrical cords into trees near power lines or on utility poles people annually also are treated in hospital emergency rooms for falls associated with holiday decorations, with more than half of them coming from ladders or roofs while decorating outdoors, the fire association said.

SCE recommends some other

safety tips for the holidays: • Never place lights closer than 10 feet to power lines and always be aware of power lines.

• Use wooden or fiberglass ladders when decorating outdoors.

Metal ladders conduct electricity.

• Always inspect your ladder before using it to ensure that it is safe. If the ladder is damaged, buy a new one that is safe to use.

• Be sure electrical cords are not placed at an angle or position that pinches them, like in windows.

• Use plastic zip cords when hanging lights instead of staples, tacks or nails.

• Use no more than three strands of light per extension cord.

Overloads can cause fires or lines to short circuit.

• Keep lights directly away from carpeting, furniture, drapes and other flammable materials.

• Use only decorations bearing the Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Canadian Standards Association (CSA) or Intertek (ETL) labels.

• Always unplug decorative lights when leaving home or before going to bed.

Seva (a Sanskrit word), is service which is performed without any expectation of result or reward for the person performing it. The organization primarily focuses on feeding the homeless and underprivileged families by offering breakfast, lunch and dinner at local shelters like Family Housing Facility, EHC shelter, Sunnyvale Armory, Sacred Heart and other locations. Preparing brown bags with nutritious items and delivering them to the local church. This activity helps

young kids of ages 6 to 12 participate in this community service event and learn about the need for such service.

Volunteers, especially children, are welcomed for all Community Seva events. If you or your friends would like to participate, please register at http:// communityseva.org/volunteer .Donations are always appreciated either by PayPal (Volunteer@communityseva.org) or check payable to Community Seva, Inc for all events.

Horoscope

26 India Post

December 13, 2013

www.indiapost.com

Your Weekly Future

by Pandit Parashar

DECEMBER 13 TH - DECEMBER 19 TH , 2013 (March 21 to April 20)

(August 23 to September 22)

C

hildren will excel in the field of education and will add joy to life this week. Money wise you will continue to do well and you may enjoy an evening with colleagues from work. Spouse may complain of minor aches and pain in the body. In spite of things going your way, mind will continue to stay little uneasy.

M

oney will come but will be difficult to preserve. Some money may go towards legal expense also. Pick heavy things with proper care and keep an eye on blood pressure for next several weeks. This is the right time to approach a government office to resolve the issue. Party will be entertaining for the family.

(April 21 to May 20)

Y

ou will generous contribute to a charity or noble cause this week.

Money will continue to pour in from various directions. You may take family out and enjoy your favorite food. You will benefit from some one lot younger in age. Money will go on buying some beautiful item for the house and gifts for others.

(September 23 to October 22)

Y

ou will be lucky in all money matters. You may reap rich rewards for the hard work and patience shown in the past. You may buy some beautiful item for the house. An old friend will invite you to a small get together. People looking for a possible change in career will be called for second interview at a big company.

(May 21 to June 20)

Y

ou will spend an evening with some famous people this week.

Try to limit number of drinks unless you want to get into trouble with the law. Expenses towards children will increase suddenly. You will give final shape to an upcoming trip. You will continue to work on a project that can benefit for long time to come.

(June 21 to July 22)

(October 23 to November 22)

N

ew strategy will help you save tons of money in short as well as long term and the new product will be lot better than previous one.

You will start making preparation for an upcoming family vacation also.

Offer will be weak and you will quickly turn it down. You may also dispose off some money making stocks and wait. Money will go on buying some nice gifts.

A

ggressive approach will resolve an important issue related to career. Time spent on phone will will help you reduce your liability quickly and help you save money for long time. Trip will be very entertaining. You will also make new friends and enjoy their company. Just try to keep an eye on your spending this week.

(July 23 to August 22)

Y

ou will continue to work on great plans and project. You may need more paper work to support your application. Sign all legal documents after reading all fine lines and if necessary ask for the change in any clause you don't like. You may have to take a trip on a very short notice to attend an important meeting.

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

510-886-4370

www.parashar.com

(November 23 to December 22)

V

aluable advice from a friend will help you take the right decision.

You will start sending out invitations for the party. There will be slight change in travel plans. New offer will be lucrative but you will postpone the decision for another time. You may replace one of your old vehicle for a new one.

(December 22 to January 19)

You will give final shape to a short family vacation. There will be lots of excitement about an upcoming family reunion. Boss will discuss few important issues and will make necessary recommendations for your promotion. Do not hesitate to play lottery this week. You may be writing a small check to a government agency in shape of fine.

(January 20 to February 18)

F

amily members will be getting ready for the trip. You may use extra time on hand to clean up the stuff gathering dust for quite some time in the house. You will get to meet many old friends at the party this week. You may be still looking for ideal partners for new venture. bank balance will grow this week.

(February 19 to March 20)

M

oney will come and disappear fast. There will be delay in getting some work done from a government agency and you may need to resubmit more information. You will also spend little more time at work in order to finish work before deadline so that you can enjoy the upcoming vacation. An old friend will call.

December 13, 2013

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TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Dhoom Machale Dhoom: Dhoom 3 2 Ram Chahe Leela: Ram-Leela 3 Gandi Baat: R..Rajkumar 4 Nagada Sang Dhol: Ram-Leela 5 Tattad Tattad: Ram-Leela www.indiapost.com

30 India Post

December 13, 2013

6 Tamnche Pe Disco: Bullet Raja 7 Part All Night: Boss 8 Too : Gori Tere Pyaar Mein 9 Raghupti Raghav: Krrish 3 10 Main Rang Sharbato Ka: Phata Poster Nikhla Hero ○

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ive life king size is Saif Ali Khan's motto and who can blame him as his royal blood is used to palatial houses. To live like royalty even in a city like Mumbai, Saif and his wife Kareena Kapoor have decided to spend a small fortune of Rs. 48 crores to buy a four floor apartment and call it home.

According to a news article in DNA, Saif and Kareena have bought four floors of a building in Bandra opposite their current apartment, Fortune Heights. Apparently each floor has a 3BHK apartment that covers an area of 3,000 sq feet each and every apartment is worth Rs. 12 crore making Saifeena's new home worth Rs. 48 crores.

According to the report, architect and interior designer Nozer Wadia who has designed homes for A-list celebrities like Amitabh Bachchan and Arjun Rampal has been roped in for the project.

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hat went wrong between the ideal couple of tinselville, Hrithik Roshan and Suzanne Roshan still remains suspense for all but it is almost confirmed that Hrithik is no longer present in Suzanne's life.

The couple has called it a quit to their 13 year long happy married life. Reports say they have filed for divorce.

Hrithik and Suzzanne are blessed with two sons, Hridhaan and Hrehaan.

The crack in their paradise came in to public glare during Rakesh Roshan's last birthday but their marriage was going through a rough patch even before it. The couple is said to be living separately for four months. Off late, it was heard that hunk will move to a new abode and Suzanne will live with the Roshans.

Suzanne did not stand beside Hrithik when 'Krrish 3' made a grand success and when the superhero left for the US for treatment to cure headache, Suzanne was absent.

What's most striking is that the 39-year-old actor will not be present at the launch of his wife's luxury concept boutique.

THE CRACK IN THEIR PARADISE CAME IN TO PUBLIC GLARE DURING RAKESH ROSHAN'S LAST BIRTHDAY BUT THEIR MARRIAGE WAS GOING THROUGH A ROUGH PATCH EVEN BEFORE IT. THE COUPLE IS SAID TO BE LIVING SEPARATELY FOR FOUR MONTHS

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December 13, 2013

Bollywood

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t is confirmed now. Imran Khan and Avantika Malik are expecting their first child. And as the couple braces to welcome a new member in the family, the beaming dad-to-be said, "I'm really excited about this. I think I'm more excited than Avantika is. I'm also more ready than she is. Don't tell her I said that!" He added that the baby is expected in June.

When asked if he has come up with a name for the baby, the actor was quoted as saying: "I'm hoping for a girl, she's hoping for a boy. As you can imagine, there are lots of arguments about the names... Haven't locked anything yet, but there's time."

He is taking it slow and not reading up on parenting while Avantika has "downloaded an app that gives her daily info and tips".

Imran wants the baby to have certain qualities of his wife: "her love for life, her warmth, and her ability to make people feel comfortable around her."

"I'M HOPING FOR A GIRL, SHE'S HOPING FOR A BOY. AS YOU CAN IMAGINE, THERE ARE LOTS OF ARGUMENTS ABOUT THE NAMES... HAVEN'T LOCKED ANYTHING YET, BUT THERE'S TIME."

IRRFAN'S LATEST CHALLENGE IS HIS BIGGEST TO DATE. FOR A BRAZILIAN FILM THAT HE HAS SAID YES TO, THE METHOD ACTOR KNOWN TO GO TO GREAT LENGTHS TO GET IT RIGHT, WOULD BE LEARNING HOW TO SPEAK ARABIC

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mong Indian actors who have made forays into firangi filmdom, Irrfan Khan stands tall. In the last five years Irrfan had the singular honor of working in two of the most successful multi-Oscar winning international projects Slumdog Millionaire and The Life Of Pi. He has also been part of the latest Spiderman flick and did a short-film for Mira Nair co-starring Natalie Portman.

Not that Irrfan is sitting on his laurels. His hunger for new challenges is in his own words, insatiable.

Irrfan's latest challenge is his biggest to date. For a Brazilian film that he has said yes to, the method actor known to go to great lengths to get it right, would be learning how to speak Arabic.

The Brazilian film is not the only one where Irrfan is grappling the grammar and accent of an unfamiliar language. In Vishal Bhardwaj's Haider, Irrfan plays a Kashmiri character and is trying to master the nuances of the way Urdu is spoken in the Valley.

DRAMA IN DUBAI

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hah Rukh Khan being the performer of the evening, there is no doubt that the audience will walk away with a smile. And giving him company were some of his favorites, the evergreen Madhuri Dixit Nene, the sensational Deepika Padukone, the pretty lady Jacqueline Fernandez and the popular Yo Yo Honey Singh at the Access All Areas concert in Dubai.

Watching Madhuri give her usual latkas and jhatkas, seeing Jacqueline dancing to the tunes of her latest songs and Shah Rukh romancing his lovely ladies along with a rare sight of Deepika dancing live, for the audience, 'Access All Areas' was worth a million bucks for their fans!

But their dreams shattered when lack of co-ordination amongst the organizers resulted in issues in the seating arrangement. While the ones seated at the VIP areas were unable to see the concert owing to the crowd blocking their view, those in the balcony accused the organizers of having an improper seating location.

Many in the front row complained that they had to watch the live concert on the screen of the television at the ground as they could not see the performances on stage. The organizers however, claim that it was because of an unruly crowd that the concert faced certain mishaps including a 10 minute delay.

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Cell phone use may lead to anxiety and lower grades WASHINGTON: Frequent cell phone use may lead to anxiety, lower grades and reduced happiness in students, a new study has found.

Researchers found that cell phone use was negatively related to Grade Point Average (GPA) and positively related to anxiety.

As cell phone use continues to increase, it is worth considering whether use of the device is related to measurable outcomes important for student success, such as academic performance, anxiety and happiness, researchers said.

Researchers Andrew Lepp, Jacob Barkley, and Aryn Karpinski from the Kent State University, US surveyed more than 500 university students.

Daily cell phone use was recorded along with a clinical measure of anxiety and each student's level of satisfaction with their own life, or in other words happiness.

Finally, all participants allowed the researchers to access their official university records in order to retrieve their actual, cumulative college grade point average (GPA).

All students surveyed were undergraduate students and were equally distributed by class (freshman, sophomore, junior and senior).

In addition, 82 different, selfreported majors were represented.

Results of the analysis showed that cell phone use was negatively related to GPA and positively related to anxiety. -PTI

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New research could prevent stillbirth

MELBOURNE: Australian scientists have developed world's first test that could help prevent stillbirth, a tragedy that affects millions globally each year.

The test can detect if a baby was at a risk of stillbirth, and has been developed by the researchers at Mercy Health, according to media reports here.

Scientist and clinician Clare Whitehead and supervisors professors Stephen Tong and Susan Walker developed the test which measures fragments called RNA that are released when a baby is suffering from dangerously low levels of oxygen.

The researchers were able to show that the amount of RNA fragments circulating in a mother's bloodstream appears to accurately reflect of how low oxygen levels are within a baby. -PTI

Health Science

Mobile phones pose no threat, says WHO official Details on Page 34

32 India Post

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December 13, 2013

Gene therapy scores big wins against blood cancers SEATTLE, WA: In one of the biggest advances against leukemia and other blood cancers in many years, doctors are reporting unprecedented success by using gene therapy to transform patients' blood cells into soldiers that seek and destroy cancer.

A few patients with one type of leukemia were given this onetime, experimental therapy several years ago and some remain cancer-free today. Now, at least six research groups have treated more than 120 patients with many types of blood and bone marrow cancers, with stunning results. ``It's really exciting,'' said Dr. Janis Abkowitz, blood diseases chief at the University of Washington in Seattle and president of the American Society of Hematology. ``You can take a cell that belongs to a patient and engineer it to be an attack cell.''

In one study, all five adults and 19 of 22 children with acute lymphocytic leukemia, or ALL, had a

complete remission, meaning no cancer could be found after treatment, although a few have relapsed since then.

These were gravely ill patients

Philipsburg, Pa., that doctors said her major organs would fail within days. She was the first child given the gene therapy and shows no sign of cancer today, nearly two

A new cancer treatment filters patients' blood to remove millions of white blood cells, alters them in the lab, and returns them to the patient.

out of options. Some had tried multiple bone marrow transplants and up to 10 types of chemotherapy or other treatments.

Cancer was so advanced in 8year-old Emily Whitehead of

years later.

Doctors say this has the potential to become the first gene therapy approved in the United States and the first for cancer worldwide. Only one gene therapy

is approved in Europe, for a rare metabolic disease.

The treatment involves filtering patients' blood to remove millions of white blood cells called T-cells, altering them in the lab to contain a gene that targets cancer, and returning them to the patient in infusions over three days. ``What we are giving essentially is a living drug'' - permanently altered cells that multiply in the body into an army to fight the cancer, said Dr. David Porter, a University of Pennsylvania scientist who led one study.

Several drug and biotech companies are developing these therapies. Penn has patented its method and licensed it to Switzerland-based Novartis AG. The company is building a research center on the Penn campus in Philadelphia and plans a clinical trial next year that could lead to federal approval of the treatment as soon as 2016.

Cont'd on Page 35

Choice of coffee or beer can affect your DNA JERUSALEM: Your choice of coffee or beer can not only affect your mood, but also influence a part of DNA linked to ageing and cancer, a new study claims.

Working with a kind of yeast that shares many important genetic similarities with humans, the researchers from the Tel Aviv University found that caffeine shortens and alcohol lengthens telomeres - the end points of chromosomal DNA, implicated in ageing and cancer.

"For the first time we've identified a few environmental factors that alter telomere length, and we've shown how they do it," said Professor Martin Kupiec.

"What we learned may one day contribute to the prevention and treatment of human diseases," said Kupiec.

Telomeres, made of DNA and proteins, mark the ends of the strands of DNA in our chromo-

somes and are essential to ensuring that DNA strands are repaired and copied correctly.

Every time a cell duplicates, the

They were surprised to find that the length did not change.

They went on to expose the yeast cells to 12 other environ-

chromosomes are copied into the new cell with slightly shorter telomeres. Eventually, the telomeres become too short, and the cell dies.

Only fetal and cancer cells have mechanisms to avoid this fate.

The researchers grew yeast cells in conditions that generate free radicals to test the effect on telomere length.

mental stressors. Most of the stressors - from temperature and pH changes to various drugs and chemicals - had no effect on telomere length.

But a low concentration of caffeine, similar to the amount found in a shot of espresso, shortened telomeres, and exposure to a 5-to7 per cent ethanol solution length-

ened telomeres.

To understand these changes, researchers scanned 6,000 strains of the yeast, each with a different gene deactivated.

They then conducted genetic tests on the strains with the longest and shortest telomeres, revealing that two genes, Rap1 and Rif1, are the main players mediating environmental stressors and telomere length.

In total, some 400 genes interact to maintain telomere length, researchers note, underscoring the importance of this gene network in maintaining the stability of the genome.

Strikingly, most of these yeast genes are also present in the human genome.

"This is the first time anyone has analyzed a complex system in which all of the genes affecting it are known," said Kupiec.

The study was published in the journal PLOS Genetics. -PTI

December 13, 2013

Health Science Post

India Post 33

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Track your glucose test Health insurance premium results with 'ditto' may cross Rs 32K cr India Post News Service

FREMONT, CA: Biomedtrics Inc, a California technology company based in the Bay Area, has introduced the ditto Glucose Data System: a Bluetooth transmitter, glucose logbook app and secure website designed to help people with diabetes easily track and share their glucose test results.

The ditto Glucose Data System eliminates the inconvenience of recording ev-

ery new result in a paper logbook or manual entry app. Just download the free diabetes app, connect the ditto Bluetooth Device to the glucose meter, and sync the results to your cell phone or mobile device. After syncing you can immediately view your data in various graphical formats, add text notes and photos to selected entries as a reminder, and e-mail your data to family members, caregivers or your doctor.

Ditto is a FDA registered, class 1 medical device that communicates wirelessly with Bluetooth enabled smartphones and tablets. The transmitted results are exactly as they are presented in the glucose meter and the app shows the data in graphs, calendars, and lists.

Ditto makes your data as mobile as you are, available anytime and anywhere on a smartphone, tablet, and any web browser via the mydittolife secure website.

Accessing your account on mydittolife.com offers all the features of the cell phone app plus enhanced data management on your laptop or PC. You can buy the ditto device, and learn more about the ditto Glucose Data System, by visiting the websites www.mydittolife.com and www.biomedtricsinc.com.

NEW DELHI: Clocking a compounded Moreover, the study also found that reannual growth rate (CAGR) of 20 per cent, ferrals constitute a meager 0.1 per cent in India's health insurance premium is likely terms of both the number of policies sold to cross Rs 32,038 crore by 2016-17, from as well as medical insurance premium colRs 13,092 crore recorded in 2011-12, on the lected. back of rising income levels and health inThe study further suggested to the Insurance premium, says an Assocham study.

"Increase in healthcare costs, rising per-capita incomes, burden of new diseases, health-related risks and high financial burden on the poor are key factors that have contributed towards growth of health insurance market in India," Assocham Secretary General D S Rawat said.

Over 65 per cent of people covered by health insurance sector in India India's health insurance premium is likely to cross Rs come under the ambit of private com32,038 crore by 2016-17, from Rs 13,092 crore panies, whereas public insurance comrecorded in 2011-12. panies account for coverage of only 35 per cent people, according to the study. surance Regulatory Development AuthorWhile the public sector insurance com- ity (IRDA) to evolve a mechanism to enpanies garner maximum share of health in- sure that private insurance companies do surance premium to the tune of 61.5 per cent not skim the market by focusing on rich in India, private health insurers account for and upper class clients, thereby neglectjust 38.5 per cent, it said. ing the masses. -PTI

34 India Post

Health Science Post

December 13, 2013

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India's public spending on health lowest in world NEW DELHI: Noting that India's public spending on health is lowest in the world, Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad has lamented that allocation to National Health Mission in first two years of 12th Plan is

Drug Sensitive TB in tribal and difficult areas and TB-HIV co-infected patients.

A proposal for pooling of united grants, annual maintenance grant and Rogi Kalyan Samiti grants and revision of quantum of

'Incentives of existing activities have been increased, and new activities for which ASHA would get incentives have also been added.'

Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad

only 18 per cent of promised outlay and called for augmenting resources.

The Minister also said that Rs 5,500 crore have been provided by states and the Centre under the new initiative of the Ministry to provide free essential medicines to all patients visiting public health facilities.

He said 28 states and UTs have articulated the policy and have provided about Rs 3,500 crores for free drugs during the current year and NRHM has supplemented the state's efforts with about Rs 2,000 crores.

Addressing the meeting of the Mission Steering Group of the National Health Mission here, Azad also cleared proposals for revision/new incentives related to Multi Drug Resistant TB and those related to

united grants to Community Health Centers or equivalent and District hospitals was also cleared.

Besides, the proposal for streamlining Asha incentives, by providing an advance to ASHA workers be adjusted against the monthly performance so that they are able to get reasonable amount of money every month.

Incentives of existing activities have been increased, and new activities for which ASHA would get incentives have also been added.

A proposal for provision of recurring cost for the first referral units (community health centers, maternity homes, etc) under the National Urban Health Mission and another proposal for expansion of Hib vaccines in the Universal Immunization program as liquid pentavalent vaccine (DPT+Hep B+Hib) in 11 states from October 2014 and remaining 16 states from April 2015 was also cleared.-PTI

US approves breakthrough hepatitis C drug WASHINGTON: US health officials have approved a highly anticipated hepatitis C drug from Gilead Sciences Inc that is expected to offer a faster, more palatable cure to millions of people infected with the liverdestroying virus.

The Food and Drug Administration said it approved the pill Sovaldi in combination with older drugs to treat the main forms of hepatitis C that affect US patients.

Current treatments for hepatitis C can take up to a year of therapy and involve weekly injections of a drug that causes flulike side effects. That approach only cures about three out of four patients.

Sovaldi is a daily pill that in clinical trials cured roughly 90 per cent of patients in just 12 weeks, when combined with the older drug cocktail.

Between 3 million and 4 million Americans are estimated to carry the blood-borne virus, though most do not even know they are infected. Others have tested positive but are waiting for more effective treatments

to become available.

Hepatitis C symptoms may not appear until two or three decades after infection, though the virus can cause liver failure, cirrhosis and cancer if left untreated.

Dr. Donald Jensen of the University of Chicago said he's optimistic that new drugs like Sovaldi will increase treatment of the disease, which is blamed for 15,000 US deaths per year.

"I'm hoping that these new, less toxic therapies will drive more people to get tested and more primary care physicians to test their patients, knowing that the therapy is going to be more effective and easier," said Jensen, who directs the university's center for liver diseases.

Gilead Sciences Inc., based in Foster City, California, is one of a half-dozen companies battling over the market more effective treatments for hepatitis C. Many industry analysts expect Sovaldi to quickly dominate the field with sales of over USD 1.6 billion next year.-AP

Mobile phones pose no threat, says WHO official NEW DELHI: India is not forthcoming of WHO, is not accepting it's recommendain informing the people that mobile phones tions. "...If the government says we are and towers pose no threat to health and using the best available scientific standards they do not cause brain cancer, WHO's recommended by the peak health organizaRadiation and Environmental Health Unit's first coordinator Michael Repacholi said here.

"The government has not been forthcoming in providing information to the general public and has been essentially mute on the issue," Repacholi, also the chairman Emeritus of International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection, said, adding that transparency reduces public concern.

He emphasized that WHO studies have proved that mobile phones do not affect human health or cause cancer or brain tumor. "It doesn't cause even headache or sleep disorders.

Prof. Michael Repacholi, former WHO expert on electromagnetic fields, Narendra Kumar, Chairman, Other countries have websites with Har – Anand Publications, and Ravi V.S. Prasad, all information and direct links to Editor of the book “Mobile Phones and Public Health – WHO," he added.

Myths and Reality”, which was launched in BangaRepacholi, known for initiating the lore International EMF Project at WHO in Geneva in 1995, launched a book, "Mobile tion, the public health concern goes down.

Phones and Public Health Why wouldn't an important country like Myths and Reality", to address the mis- India adopt the standards?" he asked. conceptions and fears related to mobile WHO on September 20 had issued a tower radiations. statement on its website saying that mobile He said India, despite being a member phone use does not cause cancer. -PTI

Health Science Post

December 13, 2013

India Post 35

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Maryland health exchange director quits

F

ourteen states and the Dis trict of Columbia told the federal government they could run their own health insurance exchanges, but three people leading their states' exchanges have now left following problemplagued rollouts of the online marketplaces.

The executive director of Maryland's exchange, Rebecca Pearce, was the latest to go. The head of Hawaii's health insurance marketplace announced her res-

tlingly short of their expectations'' for enrolling people and ``no one is doing really well.''

Laszewski said he and others believed that Maryland was going to be an example of a well-run exchange because it had a supportive state government that started early. The state was also transparent about the setup process and was reporting doing testing during the summer, he said. ``And then they launched and fell flat on their face,'' he said of

Pearce, who was appointed to the job in 2011 and previously worked at Kaiser Permanente, was criticized for taking a vacation to the Cayman Islands during Thanksgiving week while repairs to the site continued. She was not checking e-mail or voicemail while on vacation ignation in November after delays in getting the exchange running and low signups in the first month. And the head of Oregon's health exchange took a medical leave earlier in December as state officials were reviewing his job performance. The state's online enrollment system wasn't ready to launch on schedule and has had technical problems.

Bob Laszewski, a health care industry consultant, said Americans may be more familiar with the problems of the federal health insurance website, HealthCare.gov, but state exchanges are ``star-

the website's October rollout.

A bottleneck developed when the website couldn't handle the volume of people trying to create accounts all at once, and the glitches have continued. As of Nov. 30, a total of 3,758 individuals had enrolled in private plans through the site. That's less than 3 percent of the 150,000 people the state expected to enroll in qualified health plans during the first year.

Joel Ario, who oversaw initial planning for the insurance marketplaces in the Obama administration and is now a top consult-

ant with Manatt Health Solutions, knows the former leaders of both the Maryland and Oregon exchanges and said he doesn't believe either was the problem. But Ario said that when things don't go well ``the people at the top have some accountability.'' He said part of the trouble with the Maryland exchange may be that the state had a more elaborate plan for its website when it could have started with a slimmed-down plan that just met the basic requirements.

Pearce's departure as the executive director of the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange was announced by Dr. Joshua Sharfstein, board chairman and secretary of the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. The exchange is responsible for the administration of the state's health exchange website, MarylandHealthConnection.gov.

Pearce, who was appointed to the job in 2011 and previously worked at Kaiser Permanente, was criticized for taking a vacation to the Cayman Islands during Thanksgiving week while repairs to the site continued. She was not checking e-mail or voicemail while on vacation, a spokeswoman for the board, Dori Henry, confirmed.

The vacation was first reported by the Baltimore Sun. Carolyn Quattrocki, who leads the Governor's Office of Health Care Reform, has been appointed to take over as the interim executive director of Maryland's exchange. -AP

Calif. health exchange shares data without consent LOS ANGELES: The California health exchange says it's been giving the names of tens of thousands of consumers to insurance agents without their permission or knowledge in an effort to hit deadlines for coverage.

The consumers in question had gone online to research insurance options but didn't ask to be contacted, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Officials with Covered California, the exchange set up in response to the federal health law, said they began providing names, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses if available in a pilot program.

They said they thought it would help people meet a Dec. 23

deadline to have health insurance in place by Jan. 1.

The state doesn't know ex-

ing. Social Security numbers, income and other information were not provided to the agents, exchange officials said.

The pilot program meets privacy laws and was cleared by the exchange's legal counsel, Peter Lee, executive director of Covered California, told the Covered California Executive Director Peter Lee speaks during a press conference regarding the Times. number of new health care enrollees through But some inCoveredCA.com, California's health insurance surance brokers exchange and consumers actly how many people are af- weren't pleased with the state's fected by the information shar- initiative.-AP

Gene therapy scores big wins against blood cancers Cont'd from Page 32

Talking with the researchers, ``there is a sense of making history ... a sense of doing something very unique,'' said HervĂŠ Hoppenot, president of Novartis Oncology, the division leading the work.

Lee Greenberger, chief scientific officer of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, agreed. ``From our vantage point, this looks like a major advance,'' he said. ``We are seeing powerful responses ... and time will tell how enduring these remissions turn out to be.''

The group has given $15 million to various researchers testing this approach. Nearly 49,000 new cases of leukemia, 70,000 cases of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and 22,000 cases of myeloma are expected to be diagnosed in the United States in 2013.

Many patients are successfully treated with chemotherapy or bone marrow or stem cell transplants, but transplants are risky and donors can't always be found. So far, gene therapy has been tried on people who were in danger of dying because other

Penn doctors also treated 27 ALL patients. All five adults and 19 of the 22 children had complete remissions, an ``extraordinarily high'' success rate, said Dr. Stephan Grupp at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

Six have since relapsed, though, and doctors are pondering a second gene therapy attempt.

At the National Cancer Institute, Dr. James Kochenderfer and others have treated 11 patients with lymphoma and four with CLL, starting roughly two years ago.

Six had complete remissions, six had partial ones, one has stable disease and it's too soon to tell for the rest.

Ten other patients were given gene therapy to try to kill leukemia or lymphoma remaining after bone marrow transplants. These patients got infusions of genetreated blood cells from their transplant donors instead of using their own blood cells. One had a complete remission and three others had significant reduction of their disease. ``They've had every treatment known to man. To get any re-

At the National Cancer Institute, Dr. James Kochenderfer and others have treated 11 patients with lymphoma and four with CLL, starting roughly two years ago. Six had complete remissions, six had partial ones, one has stable disease and it's too soon to tell for the rest. treatments failed.

The gene therapy must be made individually for each patient, and lab costs now are about $25,000, without a profit margin.

That's still less than many drugs to treat these diseases and far less than a transplant.

The treatment can cause severe flu-like symptoms and other side effects, but these have been reversible and temporary, doctors say.

Penn doctors have treated the most cases so far - 59. Of the first 14 patients with CLL, four had complete remissions, four had partial ones and the rest did not respond. However, some partial responders continue to see their cancer shrink a year after treatment. ``That's very unique to this kind of therapy'' and gives hope the treatment may still purge the cancer, said Porter. Another 18 CLL patients were treated and half have responded so far.

sponses is really encouraging,'' Kochenderfer said. The cancer institute is working with a Los Angeles biotech firm, Kite Pharma Inc., on its gene therapy approach.

Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center will report on 13 patients with ALL; the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center will report about two-dozen patients with ALL or lymphoma, and Baylor College of Medicine will give results on 10 patients with lymphoma or myeloma.

Patients are encouraged that relatively few have relapsed. ``We're still nervous every day because they can't tell us what's going to happen tomorrow,'' said Tom Whitehead, 8-year-old Emily's father.

Doug Olson, 67, a scientist for a medical device maker, shows no sign of cancer since gene therapy in September 2010 for CLL he had had since 1996. -AP

36 India Post

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40 India Post

A

uli is the most popular skiing destination of Uttaranchal state. Situated in Chamoli district of Garhwal region and covering elevation from 2,519mts to 3,050mts above sea level, it is blessed with invigorating views of the splendid mountain range of the Himalayas.

Auli is often compared with best ski resorts of the world by the foreigners. It hosted the First SAF Winter Games in 2011. The slopes of Auli provide enough thrills to professional skiers and novices alike.

The Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam (GMVN) conducts 7 and 14 days skiing courses at Auli and special provisions for day tourists are also available. The conditions for skiing are perfect. A 500 m long ski-lift and an 800 m long chair-lift link the upper and lower slopes. GMVN takes care of this resort and they have imported snow beater to maintain slopes.

Walking through the misty slope provides one with the

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THE BEST TIME TO VISIT AULI IS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR EXCEPT MONSOONS. BUT IF YOU WANT TO ENJOY THE ETERNAL BLISS OF SNOW THEN VISIT AULI FROM DECEMBER END TO MARCH. FOR WINTERS, TOURISTS ARE ADVISED TO BRING HEAVY WOOLENS

December 13, 2013

imposing spectacles of some of the lofty mountain ranges like Nanda Devi, Mana Paravat and Kamat. The best time to visit Auli is throughout the year except monsoons. But if you want to enjoy the eternal bliss of snow then visit Auli from December end to March. For winters, tourists are advised to bring heavy woolens, caps, socks, gloves, mufflers, pullovers, trousers, wind proof jackets, sunglasses, snow boots, torch and a whistle for personal use.

Auli Ropeway Auli boasts the Asia's highest and longest cable car covering a distance of 4km. This cable car wonder is named as Gondola. It also has a Chair Lift and a Ski-Lift. The ropeway connects Auli with Joshimath; the journey taking just 15-20 minutes.

Cont’d on page 42

December 13, 2013

Travel & Hospitality Post

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Tourism earnings show 20 percent growth NEW DELHI: Foreign exchange earnings in the tourism sector in 2012 was Rs 94,487 crore, a growth of 21.8 per cent over the previous year.

India ranked 16th in the world tourism receipts during 2012 according UN World Tourism Organization's world tourism ba-

rometer, while in the Asia and Pacific region, it stood seventh, Minister of State for Tourism K Chiranjeevi said.

In 2011, the country earned Rs 77,591 crore and in 2010 Rs 64,889 crore.

In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, he said the government has

North Korea deports US tourist & Korean War vet SEOUL, South Korea: North Korea has freed an 85-year-old U.S. veteran of the Korean War after a weeks long detention, ending the saga of Merrill Newman's attempt to visit the North as a tourist six decades

rean partisan group. North Korea also cited his age and medical condition. ``I am very glad to be on my way home,'' a smiling Newman told reporters after arriving at the airport in Beijing from

Veteran US soldier Merrill Newman, who was detained for over a month in North Korea, smiles as he arrives at Beijing airport in this photo taken by Kyodo

after he oversaw a group of South Korean wartime guerrillas still loathed by Pyongyang.

North Korea made the decision after Newman, who was detained since late October, apologized for his alleged crimes, which Pyongyang linked in part to his work with the South Ko-

Pyongyang. ``And I appreciate the tolerance the (North Korean) government has given to me to be on my way.'' ``I feel good,'' Newman said, adding with a laugh that the first thing he planned to do was ``go home and see my wife.''

Cont’d on page 43

amended its visa manual to extend collective landing permits facility with effect from April 1.

Foreign tourists in groups of four or more arriving by air or sea and sponsored by Indian travel agencies approved by the Tourism Ministry and with a pre-drawn itinerary will be granted collective landing permit for a period not exceeding 60 days, with multiple entry facilities.

Tourists or travel agencies shall mandatorily fill in an application online to avail of this facility, he said.

To a separate question, he replied that contribution of tourism in gross domestic product (GDP) and employment generation in the country in 2009-10 was estimated to be 6.8 per cent and 10.2 per cent respectively. -PTI

Tourism Minister K Chiranjeevi

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Auli − Among best ski resorts of the world Cont’d from page 40

Auli ropeway has ten towers of self-supporting steel structures.

The enchanting Himalayas are distinctly visible while traveling in Gondola. Auli also offers the luxury of an 800mts long chair lift

Gurso Bugyal

linking the lower ski slopes with the upper region. This Chair Lift has remote-controlled hydraulic and pneumatic braking system, making it safe to travel. A storm warning device is also attached with it. The ropeway of Auli helps tourists to explore the region with unique and unsurpassed experience.

1.5km from the last tower of Gondola ropeway.

Chattrakund: It is a small lake holding crystal clear water.

Shankaracharya. Joshimath is the home of Shri Badrinath during winters. It is situated at an elevation of 1,890mts above sea level.

Places to See Gurso Bugyal: 3km trek from Auli will lead you to the picturesque Gurso Bugyal. Views of the imposing Himalayas like Nanda Devi, Trishul and Dron Parvat are invigorating from Gurso Bugyal.

Gurso Bugyal transforms to a green pastureland during spring season and wears sheets of snow during the winters. Perched at an elevation of 3,056mts above sea level it has mixed forest of oak and conifer. Gurso Bugyal is only Kwani Bugyal

Chattrakund is situated just 1km ahead of Gurso Bugyal. Located amidst jungle this mysterious lake is blessed with fairy tale surroundings.

Kwani Bugyal: It is a popular

Do visit Kalpavriksha and Narsingh temple while a visit to Joshimath. It is situated 14kms from Joshimath.

How to Reach

Joshimath

destination situated 12kms from Gurso Bugyal at an elevation of 3,380mts above sea level. The best time to visit Kwani Bugyal is June and September.

Chenab Lake: One must pass through the last village of Joshimath, Dang Village to reach Chenab Lake. The place is still unknown and it is inaccessible by motorable roads. Therefore, Chenab Lake does not see many tourists but the virginity of this place makes it an enchanting spot.

Joshimath: Joshimath is one of the four 'maths' created by Adi

By Air: Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest Airport to Auli situated at a distance of 286kms. It is well connected to Delhi with daily flights.

By Rail: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh. Rishikesh railway station is situated 264kms before Auli on NH58. .By Road: Auli is well connected by motorable roads with major destinations of Uttarakhand state.

Buses to Haridwar, Rishikesh and Srinagar are available from ISBT Kashmiri Gate in Delhi.

December 13, 2013

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43

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Judge refuses to block American-US Airways merger NEW YORK: A judge has refused to block a merger between American Airlines and US Airways saying a bankruptcy judge correctly rejected arguments made by a lawyer for some consumers.

San Francisco attorney Joseph Alioto argued that the deal would harm fliers because it would result in less competition and higher prices. But U.S. District Judge

Loretta Preska repeatedly noted that his arguments relied on outdated facts, had no evidence to support them and sometimes made no sense. ``There is nothing in the record from which I can make a finding that your clients are likely to be irreparably injured - personally,'' she said.

American is owned by AMR

Corp. and is based in Fort Worth, Texas. The company has said it plans to complete the merger with Tempe, Ariz.-based US Airways.

Preska said a federal bankruptcy judge was ``correct in all respects'' in deciding to let the merger proceed. She also refused to stay the effect of her ruling while Alioto appeals to the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals.

North Korea deports US tourist & Korean War vet Cont’d from page 41

U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, who is traveling in Seoul, welcomed the release and said he talked by phone with Newman in Beijing, offering him a ride home on Air Force Two. Biden said Newman declined because of a direct flight to his home state of California, which he took later.

Newman's son, Jeffrey, said he spoke briefly with his father from Beijing and that he was ``in excellent spirits and eager to be reunited with his family.'' ``As you can imagine this has

cus of North Korean propaganda and media, which accuse Pyongyang's wartime enemies Washington and Seoul of carrying on the fighting by continuing to push for the North's overthrow. ``In the United States, we revealingly refer to the Korean War as the `forgotten war.' Most Americans do not realize that memory of the war's violence is at the foundation of North Korean national identity,'' said Christine Hong, an Asia specialist at the University of California at Santa Cruz who has twice visited North Korea.

Tension remains on the Korean

Newman's written apology and the TV broadcast were enough for Pyongyang to show outsiders that it has maintained its dignity something the proud country views as paramount, said Chang. There was relief in Newman's home state of California. been a very difficult ordeal for us as a family, and particularly for him,'' he said in a statement read outside his home in Pasadena, adding that they will say more about this unusual journey after Newman has rested.

Last month, Newman read from an awkwardly worded alleged confession that apologized for, among other things, killing North Koreans during the war. These were his first words since being taken off a plane Oct. 26 by North Korean authorities while preparing to leave the country after a 10-day tour.

Analysts questioned whether the statement was coerced, and former South Korean guerrillas who had worked with Newman and fought behind enemy lines during the war disputed some of the details.

Newman's detention highlights the extreme sensitivity with which Pyongyang views the 1950-53 war, which ended without a formal peace treaty, leaving the Korean Peninsula sill technically in a state of war. The conflict is a regular fo-

Peninsula, though Pyongyang's angry rhetoric against the U.S. and South Korea has toned down compared with its torrent of springtime threats to launch nuclear strikes and restart nuclear bomb fuel production.

State Department spokeswoman Marie Harf urged Pyongyang to pardon ``as a humanitarian gesture'' another American, Kenneth Bae, who has been held in the North for more than a year.

Members of the former South Korean guerrilla group said in an interview with The Associated Press that Newman was their adviser. Some have expressed surprise that Newman would take the risk of visiting North Korea given his association with their group, which is still remembered with keen hatred in the North. Others were amazed Pyongyang still considered Newman a threat. ``Why did North Korea make such a big fuss?'' Park Chan-wu, a former guerrilla who worked with Newman during the war, said. ``It's

been 60 years since he worked as our adviser.''

The televised statement read last month by Newman said he was attempting to meet surviving guerrilla fighters he had trained during the conflict so he could reconnect them with their wartime colleagues living in South Korea, and that he had criticized the North during his recent trip.

Newman's political value had ``expired'' for North Korea, said Chang Yong Seok, a senior researcher at Seoul National University's Institute for Peace and Unification Studies. Newman's written apology and the TV broadcast were enough for Pyongyang to show outsiders that it has maintained its dignity - something the proud country views as paramount, said Chang.

There was relief in Newman's home state of California. ``He's a genuine and generous man, and we're all so relieved that he's coming home,'' said Dan Haifley, executive director of O'Neill Sea Odyssey, an ocean exploration program in Santa Cruz that the Newmans have supported.

Jeffrey Newman has previously said that his father, an avid traveler and retired finance executive from California, had always wanted to return to the country where he fought during the Korean War. Before Newman, North Korea detained at least six Americans since 2009. Five of them have been either released or deported after prominent Americans like former Presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter traveled to Pyongyang. ``The release is vintage North Korea,'' Ralph Cossa, president of the Pacific Forum CSIS think tank in Hawaii, said of Newman. ``They always try to capture the attention away from something that might make (South Korea) look good and get the spotlight on them instead.

Normally they do this by doing something negative. At least in this instance, it was a positive gesture.'' -AP

An American Airlines plane and a US Airways plane are parked at Ronald Reagan National Airport in Washington

Alioto complained to Preska that he'd gotten ``the bum's rush, with all due respect, by the bankruptcy court.''

Preska said Alioto had failed to show consumers would suffer irreparable harm or that he was likely to succeed in his effort to temporarily block the merger until a trial could be conducted on his antitrust lawsuit. Lane said last week that even if Alioto won his lawsuit, he could demand additional divestitures by the two airlines but could not wreck the merger.

Alioto's case lacked proof, said Attorney Dan Wall for US Airways Group Inc. ``We're here on just at-

torney argument and rhetoric,'' he said.

The merger means American, United, Delta and Southwest will control more than 80 percent of the U.S. market. A series of mergers in the industry since 2005 has reduced nine big airlines to four.

In August, the Justice Department had sued to block the merger, saying it would hurt competition and produce higher prices. But regulators settled their case in exchange for the airlines' promise to surrender some coveted landing rights at Reagan National near Washington and LaGuardia in New York and a few gates at five other airports. -AP

Tahoe officials eye ferry service by 2016 TAHOE CITY, Calif.: Transportation officials at Lake Tahoe are hoping that by the summer of 2016 they'll have a pair of 120-passenger ferries shuttling tourists and locals alike from the south shore to the north shore in less than a half hour.

Officials for the Tahoe Trans-

marinas at South Lake Tahoe and Tahoe City.

Project manager Alfred Knotts told the Lake Tahoe News it would be the equivalent of a light rail corridor for Tahoe.

It's estimated that during peak summer travel the boats would make

A photo from a helicopter in South Lake Tahoe above Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course.

portation District outlined their plans this week for the project they described as an environmental asset as well as a transportation tool.

The ferries would travel between

eight trips a day. Cost of the boats and marina upgrades are estimated to be $33 million with an estimated $3.3 million in annual operating costs. -AP

In Brief Albanian mother facing removal can stay in US TROY, MICH: An Albanian mother of three living in suburban Detroit who faced deportation says she can stay in the United States for at least another year.

The Detroit Free Press reports that immigration officials granted a ``stay of removal'' for Cile Precetaj of Troy. She also had a tether removed.

Precetaj was ordered to board a plane and return to Albania. She defied the order, arguing she had earned the right to live in the U.S. She sought asylum but judge denied her request in 2007. Her husband says she was escaping an abusive fiancé and violent culture.

Her attorney, Andrew Johnson, says Precetaj will request to stay in the country every year. Federal officials say Precetaj must obey all laws to keep the removal in effect. -AP

Ga Immigrant students seek in-state tuition DECATUR, Ga.: A judge has said that he needs more information and time to decide the case of a group of young people who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children and want the Georgia university system to grant them instate tuition.

The roughly three dozen young immigrants have been granted temporary permission to stay in the U.S. under an Obama administration policy introduced last year. They filed a lawsuit in August asking a judge to instruct the university system's Board of Regents to allow them to qualify for in-state tuition.

At a hearing, DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Mark Anthony Scott heard arguments on the state's request to move the case to Fulton County Superior Court because that's where the Board of Regents is located.

Charles Kuck, a lawyer for the young immigrants, argued that the board can be sued in any county where it has a school.

Scott said the arguments were complex and asked both lawyers to submit an additional filing within 60 days.

The Board of Regents has repeatedly said it does not comment on pending litigation.

The Georgia university system requires any student seeking instate status for tuition purposes to provide verification of ``lawful presence'' in the U.S. -AP

Immigration 44 India Post

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December 13, 2013

US citizen arrested MAHARAJGANJ: A 34-yearold US citizen has been arrested here when he was trying to cross over to Nepal on fake visa papers, a senior police official said Jem Charli was arrested with fake visa papers by the immigration department in Sonauli area while he was trying to cross over to Nepal, Pavitra Sahu, Sonauli immigration check post incharge said. -PTI

Hunters accuse Minnesota DNR of racial profiling MINNEAPOLIS: Eight Hispanic hunters who were accused of being illegal residents during last year's deer season have filed a federal lawsuit accusing the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources of racially profiling them.

The hunters, four of whom are legal residents while the other four are working to gain legal status, say wardens asked them to show a second form of identification but didn't make other white and Asian hunters do the same, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reported `We feel like this is racist,'' said Mayolo Garcia, a 36-year-old U.S. citizen who lives in Crystal.

A total of 11 Twin Cities men were hunting in the Wildlife Management Area south of Lake Mille Lacs last year when conservation officers asked to see their hunting licenses and another form of identification. When one produced a card issued by the Mexican government, a warden called immigration enforcement agents, who interviewed all 11 men by phone and determined seven should be

jailed as suspected illegal residents.

Two were eventually forced to leave the country.

The men said they watched the same wardens check the hunting

Angel Garcia Muñoz produced a nonresident deer license and a Mexican ID card.

Speldrich called Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which eventually had seven hunters taken to jail. licenses of other hunters but didn't demand photo IDs of them. When a Hispanic hunter asked a warden about the difference the officer said, ``None of your business,'' the lawsuit alleges.

LA suburb drops English letter sign ordinance MONTEREY PARK, Calif.: A Los Angeles suburb with a large Asian immigrant population has dropped a proposal that storefront signs contain letters used in English.

The Los Angeles Times says the Monterey Park City Council allowed the proposed ordinance to be dropped reading after a four-hour discussion.

Attorneys for the eight men say their clients were subjected to discrimination by being held to a different standard just because they're Hispanic.

Different law enforcement

The council earlier this year decided to require signs to have some ``modern Latin lettering'' in addition to Chinese characters. It would have replaced an older law - since scrapped - requiring English words and letters on signs.

Supporters argued that would help police and firefighters respond to locations more quickly - although many signs already are bilingual.

The proposal sparked an outcry. Critics were concerned about the divisive impact on a community that is about 70 percent Asian.

-AP

agencies around the state have varying policies regarding asking about an individual's immigration status. Police in Minneapolis and St. Paul are prohibited from questioning people about their status

during routine stops and encounters, while DNR officials are asked to consider ``the totality of information,'' said Ken Soring, the DNR's chief conservation officer.

For example, wardens will occasionally check IDs to make sure hunters aren't using someone else's hunting license, Soring said. ``There is not a black-and-white standard,'' he said.

In a report on the incident, DNR officer Brent Speldrich wrote that Angel Garcia Muñoz produced a nonresident deer license and a Mexican ID card. Speldrich called Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which eventually had seven hunters taken to jail.

All the men had hunting licenses, but Speldrich's report says eight people were ticketed, seven for having filled out a ``false license application.''

Mark Cangemi, a retired ICE agent, said if one person presents a Mexican ID card, it's reasonable that conservation officers might have ``heightened suspicion'' of the others. -AP

Sending youth offenders to feds decried SANTAANA, Calif.: Immigrant advocates called on Orange County probation officials to stop referring youth offenders to federal immigration authorities, saying the practice violates the children's rights, and weakens ties between law enforcement and immigrant communities.

The call came after law students from the University of California, Irvine's immigrant rights clinic released a report saying Immigration and Customs Enforcement issued nearly 700 detainer requests for minors in California between October 2009 and February 2013, and youth in Orange County facilities accounted for more than 40 percent of them.

The law students said referring minors to immigration authorities violates state confidentiality law

and hinders rehabilitation efforts by reducing parental cooperation with probation authorities. Children may be placed in federal custody for long periods of time and far from home, the report said. ``These youth sit there for weeks or months wondering when they'll be released, when they'll be able to see family,'' said Victoria Anderson, one of the report's authors.

The report noted, however, that referrals in Orange County have dropped significantly since probation officials changed their referral policy in 2012.

The policy states that the department will contact immigration officials if the minor presents a public safety risk or doing so serves the child's best interests. AP

Immigration Post

December 13, 2013

India Post 45

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'UK must remove students from Migration Target' LONDON: Leading NRI industrialist and educationist Lord Swraj Paul has said that Britain must remove students from the Net Migration Target as the current immigration system has affected UK's higher education market, with competition emerging from countries like India and China.

"London continues to attract many of the most able international students but the challenges posed by changes to our immigration system mean the numbers are falling in comparison with the United States, India and China," Lord Paul, Chancellor Wolverhamption and Westminster Universities, said while participating in a debate in the House of Lord on the contribution of high quality education to economic growth.

"The changes to the immigration system is affecting our Higher education market - currently valued at 5 billion to the UK economy and forecast to rise to 16.9 billion (pounds) by 2025. Therefore, I believe we must remove students

from the Net Migration Target as most are here for only a short time,"

Paul said, "This will help grow the economy and ensure that we have

Higher education, Paul said, is now a bigger industry in the UK than the aircraft industry, agriculture or even the pharmaceutical industry.

he said last evening.

Noting that the opportunity to participate in education, and gain skills, must be available to all, Lord

a skilled workforce ready to meet the challenges ahead."

Other countries, he said, are accepting this challenge.

"The government of India has set a target to have 40 million students in higher education by 2020, when it is forecast that India will supply 12 per cent of the world's graduates. China is expected to produce 29 per cent of all higher education graduates by then."

Higher education, he said, is now a bigger industry in the UK than the aircraft industry, agriculture or even the pharmaceutical industry.

"Universities generated 59 billion to the UK's output in 2009 during the first year after the Recession and created 670,000 jobs either directly or indirectly. Yet the UK is still placed by the OECD at 7th place for the skills level of its general population, which indicates that we need to provide more resources for adult learners," he added.

Lord Paul said the British model of Higher education prepares students well for jobs.

"At the University of Westminster, where we welcome students from 150 nationalities,

we are working hard to upgrade it to world class status. Today, the university is a world leader in photography, film and media, being ranked 19th in the QS World Rankings. It has probably the best Complementary Medicines department in Europe as well as a very successful Department of Biomedical Sciences," he said.

Noting that higher-level skill jobs are set to grow over the next decade, Lord Paul, Chairman of the Caparo Group of industries, said: "by 2020, more than 80 per cent of new jobs will be in occupations with high numbers of graduates. Hence students completing a UK degree will be more valued than before."

He also emphasized that the public funding for research and development, especially teaching, needs to be protected.

"Only by doing this will we provide the innovation and skill base we need to sustain, and more importantly grow, our economy." -PTI

USCIS to e-verify anti-SSN fraud effort CYRUS D. MEHTA

U

.S. Citizenship and Immi gration Services (USCIS) has announced an EVerify effort to combat identity fraud by identifying and deterring fraudulent use of Social Security Numbers (SSNs) for employment eligibility verification.

USCIS explained that an employer, for example, may enter information into E-Verify that appears valid, such as a matching name, date of birth, and SSN, but that was in fact stolen, borrowed,

said it will use a combination of algorithms, detection reports, and analysis to identify patterns of fraudulent SSN use and then lock the number in E-Verify.

If an employee attempts to use a locked SSN, E-Verify will generate a "Tentative Nonconfirmation" (TNC). The employee receiving the TNC may contest the finding at a local Social Security Administration (SSA) field office. If an SSA field officer confirms that the employee's iden-

An employer, for example, may enter information into E-Verify that appears valid, such as a matching name, date of birth, and SSN, but that was in fact stolen, borrowed, or purchased from another individual. or purchased from another individual. The agency said the new safeguard enables USCIS to lock an SSN that appears to have been misused.

USCIS said this implements standards that have proven effective in protecting individual identity in other industries. As with a credit card company that can lock a card that appears to have been stolen, USCIS may now lock SSNs in E-Verify that appear to have been used fraudulently. USCIS

tity correctly matches the SSN, the TNC will be converted to "Employment Authorized" status in EVerify.

Employer enrollment in E-Verify has more than doubled since January 2009, with more than 470,000 participating employers representing more than 1.4 million hiring sites. Approximately 1,500 new employers enroll each week. In fiscal year (FY) 2013, E-Verify was used to authorize workers in the U.S. more than 25 million times,

representing a nearly 20 percent increase from FY 2012.

Office of Foreign Labor Certification deals with backlogs The Department of Labor's Office of Foreign Labor Certification (OFLC) has experienced backlogs as a result of the cessation of its electronic systems due to the recent federal government shutdown. OFLC noted that this further resulted in a backlog of documents submitted to OFLC during that period by mail, hand-delivery, or email. As a result, OFLC implemented the following temporary changes: 1.Submissions mailed, couriered, or emailed to OFLC and received between October 1 and October 18: Submissions are applications that the National Processing Centers (Chicago, Atlanta, or Prevailing Wage Center) could not receive electronically through the iCERT system during the shutdown, and were mailed, delivered by private courier (Federal Express, etc.) or emailed to OFLC. These include Applications for Permanent Employment Certification (PERM, ETA 9089), Applications for Temporary Employment Certification (H-2B, H-2A ETA 9142), and Applications for Prevailing Wage Determinations (ETA 9141).

Because of the backlog in submissions that were mailed, delivered or emailed to OFLC for shutdown-related reasons or otherwise, all submissions received by OFLC between October 1 and October 18 were considered received on October 18. For example, a PERM application mailed to the Atlanta National Processing Center on October 5 was given a receipt date of October 18, 2013. If an October 18 receipt date on an application would have otherwise

mail or deliver PERM or H-2B submissions to OFLC because of the shutdown may now have recruitment or prevailing wage determinations that are out-of-date because of the shutdown-related delay. These employers were asked to mail or file electronically in PERM or iCERT (see note below about iCERT filing) submissions for receipt by November 14, 2013.

This accommodation applied only to PERM and H-2B applications that had timely recruitment

Employers with time-sensitive recruitment or prevailing wage determinations who delayed their filings until after October 18, 2013, were deemed to have been timely filed for the purpose of the recruitment or the prevailing wage determination. rendered out-of-date the recruitment or prevailing wage determination used for the application, the application was deemed to have been timely filed for the purpose of the recruitment or the prevailing wage determination.

2. PERM and H-2B submissions with time-sensitive recruitment or prevailing wage determinations NOT mailed or delivered to OFLC during the shutdown: Employers that decided not to

or prevailing wage determinations during the shutdown period and were later unsuitable for filing due to expired recruitment or prevailing wage determinations.

Employers with time-sensitive recruitment or prevailing wage determinations who delayed their filings until after October 18, 2013, were deemed to have been timely filed for the purpose of the recruitment or the prevailing wage determination.

Cont'd on Page 46

Immigration Post

46 India Post

December 13, 2013

www.indiapost.com

USCIS to e-verify anti-SSN fraud effort Cont'd from Page 45

tent to Debar

For mailed submissions, employers were asked to include a pink sheet of paper as a cover page for the submission and label that cover sheet as a "shutdown preempted submission" so that it would be properly handled in OFLC mailrooms.

In PERM: • Responses to information requests related to employer sponsorship • Audit/AAIR responses • Responses to Requests For Information • Responses to requests for review of advertisements in supervised recruitment • Responses to supervised recruitment (Recruitment Instructions Letters) • Responses to Notices of Intent to Revoke or to Debar

Note for PERM and H-2B iCERT filers: As with PERM and H-2B submissions with out-of-date recruitment or prevailing wage determinations that are mailed, no application with expired recruitment or expired prevailing wage determinations was accepted after November 14, 2013.

3. Employer responses to OFLC directives that were due between October 1 and October 18, 2013, but were NOT transmitted to OFLC:

4. Employer responses to OFLC directives that were due between October 1 and October 18, 2013, and were transmitted to OFLC during that period: Responses to OFLC directives in the H-2A, H-2B and PERM programs (those noted in no. 3 above)

Some employers may have been directed

by OFLC to respond by a deadline that occurred from October 1, 2013, to October 18, 2013. Responses that were due to the OFLC during this period but not transmitted had their due dates extended In the H-2A, H-2B and PERM programs, some employers may have been directed by OFLC to respond by a deadline that occurred from October 1, 2013, to October 18, 2013. Responses that were due to the OFLC during this period but not transmitted had their due dates extended to November 14, 2013. The deadline extension applied to the following documents in the following programs: For Prevailing Wage Determinations: • Responses to Requests For Information In H-2A and H-2B: • Responses to Notices of Deficiencies or Requests for Further Information • Audit Responses • Responses to Notices of In-

that were due between October 1 and October 18, 2013, and were transmitted via mail, hand-delivery or email during that time were considered received on October 18 and timely.

If an applicant transmitted an application or response by mail, hand-delivery, or email between October 1 and October 18, 2013, and the employer had not received notice that the transmission was undeliverable, the employer should not re-submit it.

Employers were reminded that if they viewed a PERM application as erroneously denied during that period based on out-of-date recruitment, they could submit the request for reconsideration to the attention of the government error queue.

None of the temporary procedures established in this notice applied to appeals to the BALCA.

Employers were encouraged to contact the BALCA for information related to deadlines applicable to appeals.

Visa office forecasts changes in some employment cut-off dates The Department of State's Visa Office has projected changes in some employment cut-off dates.

The December 2013 Visa Bulletin notes that the India employment second and third preference category cut-off dates advanced very rapidly at the end of fiscal year 2013.

Those movements were based on the availability of thousands of "otherwise unused" numbers that could be made available without regard to the preference percountry annual limits. This has resulted in a dramatic increase in applicant demand, the Visa Bulletin notes. Consequently, the Visa Office has retrogressed those cutoff dates for December "in an effort to hold number use within the numerical limits."

In the coming months, the Visa Office expects the employment first preference category to remain Current, and the employment second preference worldwide category to remain Current. The employment second preference category for China is expected to move forward three to five weeks.

No forward movement is expected in the India second preference category.

The worldwide employment third preference category cut-off date has advanced extremely rapidly during the past seven months "to generate new demand," the Visa Bulletin states. As the rate of applicants whose cases are finalized increases, it could have a significant effect on the cut-off date.

Rapid forward movement of this cut-off date "should not be expected to continue beyond February," the Visa Bulletin notes.

China's and Mexico's employment third preference cut-off dates are expected to remain at the worldwide date. India should see no forward movement and the Philippines is expected to move forward three to six weeks.

The employment fourth and fifth preference cut-off dates are

expected to remain Current. The Visa Office noted that these projections are "what is likely to happen during each of the next few months based on current appli-

Visa Office said that those categories with a Current projection in the December Visa Bulletin "will remain so for the foreseeable future."

The Visa Bulletin for December

China's and Mexico's employment third preference cut-off dates are expected to remain at the worldwide date. India should see no forward movement and the Philippines is expected to move forward three to six weeks. cant demand patterns." However, the Visa Office cautioned that these trends are not guaranteed and corrective action could be required at some point to maintain number use within the applicable annual limits. Unless indicated, the

2013 is available at http:// www.travel.state.gov/visa/bulletin/bulletin_6211.html. * Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com

PRADEEP ROY-SINGH B.A. LL.B. M.B.A. J.D. Attorney-at-Law

Former Assistant State s Attorney

Civil & Criminal Litigation Felonies, Misdemeanors, Inc DUI 1 Personal Injury, Business, Divorce etc.

1 Property Tax for Commercial Properties 1 1

http://www.proy-singh.com

2335 W. Devon Ave., Suite 204, Tel: 773-381-1820 Chicago, IL 60659

Realty Tidbits

Deputies convicted in mortgage fraud scheme KANSAS CITY, Mo.: Two Los Angeles deputies have been convicted in a Kansas City-area mortgage fraud scheme.

The U.S. attorney's office announced that 43-year-old James Arthur Nash Jr. and 37-year-old Arman Nshanian have been found guilty of multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The Corona, Calif., men are among nine defendants.

Prosecutors said that in 2005 and 2006, lenders made about $11 million in loans on 16 residential properties in several Missouri cities, with buyers receiving about $2 million from the loan proceeds.

The scheme resulted in a financial loss to mortgage lenders of nearly $5 million.

Prosecutors said Nash fraudulently purchased two residential properties in Blue Springs and received $100,000 from each property. Nshanian fraudulently purchased a residential property in Lee's Summit and received $100,000. -AP

Bengaluru real estate gets max PE investment NEW DELHI: Bengaluru's realty market received the maximum private equity investment of nearly Rs 2,000 crore in the country during January-September 2013 with increased demand for leased office assets from institutional investors, according to property consultant Cushman & Wakefield.

Private equity (PE) investment in Bengaluru rose by 79 per cent to Rs 1,979 crore during the first three quarters of 2013 calendar year as compared to Rs 1,106 crore in the year ago period, C&W said in a report.

"Bengaluru witnessed the highest level of announced investment value in 2013 at Rs 1,979 crore (USD 317 million).

This was due to a commitment by a sovereign fund into a platform focused on leased office assets," C&W said.

Explaining the reason behind Bengaluru emerging on top in PE investment, C&W Executive Managing Director South Asia Sanjay Dutt said: "Bengaluru is an IT capital and hub for south India. Profile of developers in the city is very good."

He also attributed higher PE investments in Bengaluru to availability of properties across all segments at a reasonable and attractive valuations. -PTI

Real Estate 47

India Post

www.indiapost.com

December 13, 2013

How to choose the right home MICHELE LERNER

F

or first-time buyers and re peat buyers alike, the deci sion to make an offer on a home is both exciting and a little scary. If your offer is accepted, the place you've chosen will be your home for the next several years.

Not only should you feel emotionally satisfied by your choice, but you should also feel financially comfortable that you're buying a home that you can afford and that you feel confident will hold onto its value or hopefully increase in value over the years.

While no one can know for sure what will happen to housing values, if you make the choice to buy a home that meets your needs and priorities you'll be happy to live in it for years to come.

Neighborhood or Home Amenities For some homebuyers, living in a particular neighborhood takes precedence over all other priorities, but for others, the home itself matters more. Ideally, you'll find the perfect home in the neighborhood you love at a price that's below your budget, but realistically, most people have to make some compromises.

You (and your spouse, partner

or family) should make a list of what features you want in a home, such as the number of bedrooms, a fenced yard, granite counters in

important factor for your home choice but you find that homes are priced above your budget, you can compromise in several ways:

the kitchen, and then rank them in terms of priorities. Think about whether the house or the community matter more to you, and whether it's worth it to you to make a longer commute in order to live in a home with a larger lot.

• Look for a different home type within the community, such as a smaller single family home, a town home or condominium. Decide if you can live with one less bedroom or other features on your list.

• Consult with a lender or a financial planner to discuss your options for increasing your budget. While no one should overspend on a home, you should recognize that going $10,000 above your price range when you're financing your purchase with a 30-

When to Compromise Once you've determined whether the location or the house itself matters most, you may have to compromise on some of your priorities. If the location is the most

year fixed-rate loan will actually add only about $30 to your monthly payment.

• Lower your expectations about the condition of the home. While everyone prefers a move-in ready home, you can often get a better deal on a home that needs some cosmetic repairs. Be careful, though, to have a home inspection and to evaluate the structure of the home to see that it meets your needs. Moving walls and adding a bathroom are costly renovations, while painting and replacing appliances are more reasonable.

If you have your heart set on a specific home style or a home with a larger yard for your children or to garden, your compromise is more likely to be in the location. If you're willing to commute farther or perhaps choose a home in a community next to the "hot" neighborhood, you can often find a more affordable home that fulfills your wish list.

An experienced Realtor can help you determine when and how to compromise and should take the time to show you a variety of alternatives so you can make an informed decision about when to make an offer.-Courtesy realtor.com

Will nearby water tower reduce home value?

STEVE MCLINDEN

Dear Real Estate Adviser, I read your column on selling a house that backs up to train tracks. Along these lines, my husband and I just bought a beautiful new 3,000-square-foot, $300,000 home in Florida.

Hours after closing, we learned that a water tower would soon go up five doors down! When confronting the Realtor, who's also the builder's representative, she acted surprised. "Tower? What tower?" Later, though, we located that very tower online on the builder's subdivision site map! Shouldn't the Realtor or builder have disclosed this?

While it's a solid towe r and not one of those huge "leg" towers, it will still be many, many feet high. Will this depreciate the value of our home? We've had no success with costly attorney visits.

-M. and K. Sobresky Dear M. and K., I would bet a bucket of bucks that the Realtor knew about the tower and is fibbing fiercely. Had you used your own agent in this deal, that potential neighborhood eyesore may have been called to your attention. "Your" Realtor in this case was serving as dual agent, which is, in essence, a double agent. If you watch spy movies, double agents always seem to favor the country or entity that's funneling them the most trade. In your own real-life drama, it seems the builder has found a double agent with a superpower: amnesia at will!

Yet, using the builder's agent in a new-home deal is a common mistake. Ostensibly, it saves on time, commission and paperwork, plus what could be wrong with a brandnew home or its neighborhood?

Had either of you asked the

agent or builder if any nonresidential buildings or structures were planned in the neighborhood and were told "no," you'd have a case, as attorneys have no doubt told you by now. I'm also guessing you signed a "standard contract" without many protections (for you).

Buyers should always be sure to add a line to their purchase contracts asking sellers to disclose, roughly, "any noise, nuisances, eyesores or planned construction of any type" within a specified area. - Courtesy Bankrate.com

Datebook

48 India Post

NEW JERSEY Upcoming Sun, Dec 15 • Christmas Celebration with Holy Mass in Tamil Venue: St. Bartholomew Church, 460 Ryders Ln, East Brunswick, NJ 08816 Time: 2:45 pm Contact: 732-910-3724

Fri, Dec 20 • Clothe and Feed teh homeless Venue: Clothe and Feed teh homeless Time: 1:00 pm Contact: 973 402 4655

Tue, Dec 31 • Fire N Ice - Bollywood New Years Party Venue: Executive Suites, 30 Minue St, Carteret, NJ 07008 Time: 6:00 pm

NEW YORK Upcoming Sat, Dec 14 • Kkny Rathna Mahothsava Venue: Queens High School of Teaching, 7420 Commonwealth Blvd, Bellerose, NY 11426 Time: 2:00 pm Contact: 516-476-1221

www.indiapost.com

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Upcoming

Upcoming

Fri, Dec 13 • Jai Ho! Dance Party Venue: Chakra, 151 S Doheny Dr,

Sun, Dec 15 • The Nutcracker Yoko's Dance Academy

Beverly Hills, CA 90211

Venue: Smith Center at Ohlone College

Time: 10:00 pm Contact: 971-344-2022

Sat, Dec 21 • CRY New York Holiday Lunch

Sat, Dec 21 • 54% off, chocolate festival

Venue: Mint Restaurant, 150 E 50th St, New York, NY 10022 Time: 12:00 pm

2013

Tue, Dec 31 • New Years Eve Bollywood Night 2013 Venue: VFW Post 399, 465 Riverside Ave, Westport, CT 06880 Time : 8:30 pm Contact : 207-391-3420

December 13, 2013

43600 Mission Blvd, Fremont Time: 2:00 pm Contact: (510) 659-6031 Online www.smithcenter.com

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

2025 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles,

Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630-561-4807

CA 90067

Website: www.jkyog.org

Venue: Hyatt Regency Century Plaza,

Time: 8:00 am

1st and 3rd Sunday of Month • Chicago Children's

Contact: 877-827-5017

Sat, Dec 21 • Kickass Desis Presents: Badass Badtameez Holiday Party

ATLANTA Upcoming

Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90211

Sat, Dec 31 • Taste of India New Year

Time: 9:00 pm

Venue: Taste of India, 3070 Windward

Contact: 310-698-9223

Plaza, Alpharetta, GA 30005

Venue: Nirvana Beverly Hills, 8689

Tue, Dec 31 • Desi Dhamaal 4 - New Year Venue: Crowne Plaza, 12021 Harbor Blvd, Garden Grove, CA 92840 Time: 6:00 pm Contact: 951-217-3604

Tue, Dec 31 • Nirvana Red Carpet NYE 2014

Every third Tuesday Fri, Dec 31 • Friends Of Atlanta Presents New Years Venue: TLanier Tech Forsyth Conference Center, 3410 Ronald Reagan Blvd, Cumming, GA 30041 Time: 8:00 pm

Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90211

Venue: Ashiana banquet hall, 5675 Jimmy

Time: 9:30 am

Carter Blvd, Norcross, GA 30071

Contact:

Time: 8:00 pm

310-698-9223

Venue: Vogelei Center, 650 W. Higgins Road, Hoffmann Estates, IL 60192 (Next to Nissan Dealership) Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630-561-4807 Website: www.jkyog.org/bal-mukund

Time: 8:00 pm

Tue, Dec 31 • Pujari Atlanta New Year Eve

Venue: Nirvana Beverly Hills, 8689

Bal Mukund Character Building Program and Hindi Literacy Classes

• Hindi Kavi Manch Organized by Hindi Lovers Club Venue: Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago Lemont Il...0915 Lemont Road IL Time: 6:00 to 8:30 pm

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

www.indiapost.com

49 India Post

December 13, 2013

Vidya Balan

Priyanka Chopra

Deepika Padukone

F

ormula rules the Hindi film industry - or at least that's the perception.

However, 2013 saw instances which were not only promising but also trend-setting. Here

are some incidents and the Bollywood personalities behind them who facilitated such changes: Deepika Padukone

Reason: Since the advent of R100-crore club, it's been the male actors (namely the Khans and Akshay Kumar) who have been hogging the limelight for registering themselves in again and again.

For a change, this actress had four releases this year and all of them grossed over 100 crore in the country - Race 2, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Chennai Express and Ram-Leela.

Priyanka Chopra Reason: PC is perhaps the only active Bollywood actress who is keen on singing. After taking her acting prowess a notch up last year with Barfi!, she exhibited an interest in music by releasing her debut single In My City while col-

Rishi Kapoor

laborating with Jay Sean. She later released her second single Exotic which featured rapper Pitbull. 2013 saw her in two item numbers, one blockbuster and a forgettable film.

Cont'd on Page 51

50 India Post

December 13, 2013 www.indiapost.com

Youth take to bicycling for a cause MUMBAI: Socially conscious youth in India are hopping on to their bicycles for countrywide tours to espouse public causes, which range from preventing suicides to driving awareness about the rare and debilitating Hunter syndrome.

In the last fortnight alone, Mumbai has hosted nearly half a

dozen such "driven" youth who have been cycling up from the south of the Vindhyas to the Himalayan north.

Mysore-based 'tandem couple' M V Santhosh and his wife Akshatha Rao set out from their hometown on August 11 on a 'tandem' bicycle - which has to be pedaled by the two together - to reach out to depressed and suicidal children and create awareness about the issue.

The 30-something couple, who earn their living by teaching ballroom dance in Mysore, pedaled over 2,000 kilometers to reach Mumbai winning adulation and creating awareness along the way in whomever they met up with.

"We gatecrash into schools, colleges and other educational institutions on our way and engage

with students and talk about depression and suicide.

"Group sessions can lead to individual sessions and we hope we have been able to prevent some children from taking the extreme step of suicide," says Santhosh.

The duo say they have taken "at least a year off" from their routine and hope to cycle across all the states.

Santhosh says the bicycle helps to establish a quick connect

with people and admits that the presence of his wife helps inspire people, especially girl students.

"There are different points of inspirations... at some places, we also show them some western dance moves and once the walls come down, we begin speaking on the subject," Akshatha chips in.

On November 20, another youngster Rahul Kumawat, began a one month cycle expedition to Delhi from Chennai, where he is employed with an auto manufacturer. Kumawat says he hopes to cycle the nearly 3,200 kilometers distance to spread awareness about multiple causes ancer and blood donation along with the progressive genetic disorder Hunter Syndrome.

He is also supporting the 'Save Arian campaign' launched to support Arian, an 11-year-old boy in West Bengal diagnosed with the debilitating and progressive hunter Syndrome, which decreases life expectancy.

Cyclists have hit on innovative ways, including dipping into personal savings and appealing to locals to fund their rides.

Santhosh and Akshatha, however, say they have a very unique way.

"We set out with hardly any money in our bank accounts. We generally don't pay for our stays and look for people to host us.

Apart from that, we also take up dance classes to earn some money as we pedal up, which may end up

extending our stay in a city," says Akshatha.

The cyclists have a storehouse of stories about their road tour experiences.

"When I mention blood donation, people enquire whether I had cycled from Chennai to Delhi just to donate blood. Even worse when I talk of cancer, some just

Espousing causes on bicycles is not a recent phenomenon.

Noted social worker Baba Amte had cycled with the youth from Kanyakumari to Kashmir way back in 1985-86 as part of his Bharat Jodo Abhiyan, and followed it up with a similar ride in 1986-87 from Itanagar to Okha in Gujarat.

walk away," Rahul recalls.

Apart from the Mysore couple and Kumawat, other cyclists on their individual missions, have also passed through Mumbai recently.

Unni Karunakara, a doctor, is pedaling 5,000 kilometers from Kashmir to Kerala, to create a dialogue on healthcare and humanitarianism, while Mark Ellison ended his two year effort of cycling over 16,000 km along the country's borders to raise funds for an NGO-backed by actor Shabana Azmi.

British by birth, Ellison has been living in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh since 2004.

There are others like the Coimbatore-based coconut farmer Vasanth Velusami, who cycled 9,865 km across the country last year with his relative Vidyasekhar to promote sustainable farming.

"Those four months were a life changing experience and I can take on any challenge now. I started out with my mobile's phonebook having 300 contacts, today it is 1,400 and all of those are in good touch," Velusami says.

The farmer says many people had visited his farm in Coimbatore while he has also traveled till Srinagar to meet the friends he made on the ride. -PTI

Christie's to hold first auction in India LONDON: Works of six Indian artists, including Rabindranath Tagore and Amrita Sher-Gil, will

defined as 'National Art Treasures' will be included in the 83 lots that the London-based auction house

feature in Christie's first auction in India this month, reflecting the increased international appeal of the Indian art.

The extraordinary works of six of the nine modern Indian artists

will put up for sale at the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai on December 19.

These works are deemed of such national importance to Indian culture that they are non-export-

able and when sold, must remain in India.

"These extraordinary works have been thoroughly researched and profusely documented, resulting in an exciting story of the last 100 years of art in India," the auction house said in a statement.

The artists represented are Rabindranath, Abanindranath and Gaganendranath Tagore, Nandalal Bose, Jamini Roy and Amrita Sher-Gil. "This sale marks a major milestone in our company's history, a history that spans nearly two and a half centuries," Steven Murphy, Chief Executive, Christie's said.

Whilst Christie's has had a representative presence in India for almost 20 years, we are excited

and proud to finally host our first auction here, he said.

"The decision to hold auctions at this time is a reflection of the strong momentum in the domestic art marketplace, the increased international appeal of Indian art and the growing participation of Indian collectors across interna-

tional sale categories," the auction house said.

Christie's auctions in Mumbai will serve as an introduction to the high standards and connoisseurship associated with Christie's, the global market leader in Indian art and the world's leading art business, it said. -PTI

December 13, 2013

India Post 51 www.indiapost.com

The game changers of 2013 Cont'd from Page 49

Vidya Balan Reason: She had just one release in the year, Ghanchakkar, which failed miserably at the box-

Sushant Singh Rajput

office. But something worth noting took place in Cannes a month before this film opened in the theatres. Vidya was a part of the grand jury at the celebrated film festival and rubbed shoulders with the likes of Steven Spielberg, Ang Lee and Nicole Kidman. An honorable feat for the 35-year-old National

Anil Kapoor

Award winner.

Rishi Kapoor Reason: Dimple Kapadia recently pointed out that there's a lack of covet-worthy roles when it comes to actors who have passed a certain age. And she's certainly not mistaken. However, Rishi Kapoor proved to be an exception to this theory. Earning prominent roles, the veteran actor had five big releases in the year and all of them - with the exception of Besharam -- earned him rave reviews.

spontaneity of the show, nobody appears to say no to it. Some even request to be a part of it.

Farhan Akhtar Reason: It's quite known that mainstream actors have a choc-abloc calendar with shooting for one film after another is a routine.

Calling the current system an assembly line won't be far-fetched.

Much against this set up, Farhan

Kapil Sharma Reason: Humor more than just sells. This fact was (once again) established by Kapil Sharma with his hugely popular comedy show. Attending it to promote their upcoming films has become sort of a pilgrimage for actors nowadays. In fact, Shah Rukh Khan and Akshay Kumar have been there twice. Given the

Farhan Akhtar

Bhansali have reportedly offered her films now that she is keen to return to Bollywood. As of now, she is going through scripts and is keen to return with a meaningful role. Interestingly enough, Manisha prefers to call herself a cancer crusader - not a cancer survivor.

Sushant Singh Rajput Reason: Moving from small screen to big screen can be called a natural progression.

But it's generally a slow process too. And seldom does one come across a TV actor who is suddenly leaping into a bigger league. Something of that sort is happening with the Kai Po Che star. Just two-films-old, he's presently working with acclaimed directors like Shekhar Kapur, Rajkumar Hirani and Dibakar Banerjee.

Anil Kapoor Reason: Not very long ago, speculations were rife about Anil Kapoor being more interested in Hollywood than in Bollywood. That was then. As of now, he's the protagonist as well as the producer of the most gripping television series (hopefully) in a long while.

And for an actor who stayed away from the small screen while his contemporaries were making their foray on the tube, it's encouraging.

release. Anand Gandhi's Ship of Theseus did. And a lot of the credit goes to the Dhobi Ghat director because she effectively funneled all the resources required to present the film.

Karan Johar Reasons: When Bombay Talkies released as a tribute to 100 years of cinema, hardly anybody was expecting this filmmaker to go beyond his comfort zone and come up with a shortie that highlighted repressed homosexuality. On the contrary, his 'gay encounter at gunpoint' question on his

SUPPORTING ROLES

Kapil Sharma

Kiran Rao Reasons: Independent films in our country travel across the globe on the film circuit but very few of them actually receive a proper Friday

Honey Singh

chat show sounds rather regressive in comparison.

accomplished something out-ofthe-book by dedicating nearly two years for a single role in Bhaag Milkha Bhaag. To his credit, the biopic did well at the box office too.

Honey Singh Reason: For the record, he remains the highest paid singer for a single song in Bollywood. Having faced his share of legal troubles for "vulgar" lyrics, the 29year-old taciturn crooner is as popular as popularity gets largely in the metropolitan areas. Catchy numbers like Lungi Dance and Punjabiyan Di Battery ensured him a consistent place on the chartbusters throughout the year.

Manisha Koirala Reason: She fought ovarian cancer, won and is now back at work. The buzz is Rajkumar Santoshi and Sanjay Leela

Manisha Koirala

52

India Post

Classifieds

December 13, 2013

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Philosophy

December 13, 2013

India Post 53

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Page Sponsored by Sahanis EKNATH EASWARAN

T

he mantram is a tool for calming the mind that any one can learn and use at any time.

If you're like me, at this point you may doubt that such a simple skill could do what I claim.

I doubted it, too, when my grandmother tried to tell me what the mantram can do. Granny was the wisest person I have ever known, and I loved her passionately, so I always took her advice seriously. But, after all, grannies don't know everything.

'Granny,' I protested, 'that's just mindless repetition! What can repetition do?'

'Walking is just repetition too,' she said. "One step after another, each one the same.'

She had me there. But I still didn't believe her.

But life went on presenting challenges, and in college I encountered a really intimidating one: public speaking. I found the activity fascinating and took every opportunity to learn, but no matter how many times I stood before an audience and lived to tell the tale, I was always afraid that on the next occasion I would trip on my way to the podium or open my mouth and find that no words would come out.

When I confessed this fear to my granny, she had a very simple piece of advice: not to sit there going over my notes or trying to size up my audience, but to JEFFERY D. LONG

M

y first direct encounter with the Bhagavad Gita was in the parking lot of the Methodist church in Montgomery City, the small Missouri town where I spent most of my growing up years. I was in the church parking lot because a flea market was being held there.

I had gone with my grandmother there to sell her handmade arts and crafts and buy some comics.

The Bhagavad Gita was also very much on my mind. My father had died two years previously after a long, painful ordeal - and I had consequently undertaken a search for answers to the deep questions of life: Why is there so much suffering? What is the purpose of this life? And what happens after we die?

The Bhagavad Gita, however, was not easy to come by in Montgomery City, so I was not sure when I would get to read this wise and ancient book.

But on that spring day in 1983, something happened that changed the course of my life.

Seeing a flea market table that looked like a promising place to find books, I saw the Bhagavad

repeat the mantram to myself quietly while awaiting my turn.

I decided she didn't really understand. After all, she never had to give a speech! But because of my love for her, I promised to give it a try.

The next time I had to give a talk, I sat quietly repeating Rama, Rama, Rama over and over and over in my mind whenever my thoughts tried to blurt out 'I'm afraid! I'm afraid!' Instead, I

trust in the mantram can come through your own personal experience.

Using a mantram is not just mechanical repetition. You learn to trust it by using it.

You can draw on the power of the mantram like this at any time, wherever you happen to be, whatever you happen to be doing. But if you want the mantram to come to your rescue when you need it, if you want it

anchor your mind so surely that no amount of agitation can sweep you away.

How does the mantram help?

• It calms you down, whether you're facing a minor irritation or a major drama.

• It stops you from reacting too quickly and saying or doing something you may later regret.

• It halts rising anger, fear, panic.

Mantram calms you down, whatever the situation

Eknath Easwaran

The next time I had to give a talk, I sat quietly repeating Rama, Rama, Rama over and over and over in my mind. And the talk went well. With my mind calmer, the words came up right on cue.

would bring them back to 'Rama, Rama' - adding to myself, every now and then, 'I hope it works.'

And the talk went well. With my mind calmer, the words came up right on cue.

I kept on practicing this little trick, and after a while I began to say, 'Rama, Rama, Rama ... I think it works!'

Today, after years of practice, I can assure you with complete confidence that I know it works.

This is really the only way that

to steady your mind in times of turmoil, you need to practice, practice, practice in calm weather.

Whenever you get a moment free, unless you are doing something that requires attention, repeat your mantram to yourself silently, in the mind - while waiting, walking, washing dishes, and especially when falling asleep at night. Constant repetition drives the mantram deep into consciousness, where it can

• It gives you a breathing space.

• "Once you've got your mantram going, you'll find yourself in a much better state to choose your next move - and to choose it wisely.

The mantram works fast. If you start using it today, you'll probably feel the benefit of it the very next time you face a problem.

The 103rd birth anniversary of Eknath Easwaran will be observed on December 17.

Gita sitting on top of a pile of old magazines. It was the richly illustrated Bhagavad Gita: As It Is, the Gita as translated by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada.

I opened the text, seemingly at random, to one of the illustrated plates - a portrait of a man who

family member (illustrated by a small image of Lord Krishna floating over each person's heart). Beneath this picture was a caption that read, "The wise lament neither for the living nor the dead," with a page number given.

Reading these words, I felt as if I was hearing the voice of God

ied soul continually passes, in this body, from boyhood to youth, and then to old age, the soul similarly passes into another body at death.

The self-realized soul is not bewildered by such a change."

I cannot begin to describe the power these words had for me that day, a power that resonates to this

Discovery of Gita at a flea market in Montgomery I opened the text, seemingly at random, to one of the illustrated plates - a portrait of a man who had died and was surrounded by his grieving family.

The picture hit me like a lightning bolt, as it seemed to sum up perfectly the experiences of my family had died and was surrounded by his grieving family. The picture hit me like a lightning bolt, as it seemed to sum up perfectly the experiences of my family over the past couple of years.

Standing at some distance from this grieving family was a wise Hindu sage, gazing upon them with a serene, compassionate detachment, and gifted with the ability to see the divinity within each

speaking directly to me in this Methodist church parking lot.

I looked up the page reference indicated next to the caption and came to the eleventh verse of the second chapter of the text: "Those who are wise lament neither for the living nor the dead.

Never was there a time when I did not exist, nor you, nor all these kings; nor in the future shall any of us cease to be. As the embod-

day. Transfixed, I could not put the book down. Here was the wisdom I was seeking. Here were answers that actually made sense, both logically and intuitively.

Gita Jayanti is observed on December 13 every year to commemorate the day when Lord Krishna rendered his philosophical teachings to prince Arjuna on the first day of the 18-day battle of Kurukshetra.

There exists only the present instant... a Now which always and without end is itself new. There is no yesterday nor any tomorrow, but only Now, as it was a thousand years ago and as it will be a thousand years hence.

- Meister Eckhart If I take death into my life, acknowledge it, and face it squarely, I will free myself from the anxiety of death and the pettiness of life - and only then will I be free to become myself.

- Martin Heidegger The first forty years of life give us the text; the next thirty supply the commentary on it.

- Arthur Schopenhauer The true man wants two things: danger and play.

For that reason he wants woman, as the most dangerous plaything.

-Friedrich Nietzsche Immaturity is the incapacity to use one's intelligence without the guidance of another.

-Immanuel Kant Genuine tragedies in the world are not conflicts between right and wrong.

They are conflicts between two rights.

-Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel

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December 13, 2013

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TAPI Pipeline: it is looking to be feasible

T

India Post

D SUBA CHANDRAN

he idea of constructing a 1,700 km long Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-Indian pipeline, which was in limbo for more than ten years, suddenly seems to be picking up in the recent months.

Where does this enthusiasm come from? Will the project get implemented in 2017, as is being envisaged?

For a long time, the security issues haunted the idea of pipeline from Turkmenistan, especially from an Indian perspective on the situation in Afghanistan and Pakistan. The proposed pipeline from Turkmenistan via Afghanistan will have to cross the insurgency prone Southern Afghanistan and Balochistan in Pakistan.

Besides the security and political relations, two other issues also played a role in creating negative sentiments about the TAPI pipeline. First was the ability to fund

China went ahead and has laid the pipeline already, when we are still contemplating the feasibility study!

Finally, there was a fear that the US has a vested interest in Turkmenistan reserves and would want to upset any larger Russian diplomatic initiative in the region and be a crucial factor in gas supply and pricing. It is no secret that the US wanted to undermine the Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI) pipeline and promote the TAPI as an alternative.

These were some of major concerns until recently. Suddenly, during the last few months, there were multiple positive developments, providing new impetus to the TAPI project. Consider the following.

In a meeting in Ashgabad, few weeks earlier, the countries in the region including Turkmenistan, India, Pakistan and Afghanistan

such a huge project. None of the four countries involved in the pipeline - either individually or collectively were/are in a position to fund such a huge project. While international gas and oil giants such as the Chevron were interested in taking up the project, they did not want only to just build the pipeline.

They would like to have the exploration rights in Turkmenistan as well; truth is, for the international giants there is more money in the exploration, than just building a pipeline.

Second, there was also a concern, whether Turkmenistan will have sufficient gas to export to Pakistan and India. One of the questions raised is, how much gas would be available, after Turkmenistan-China strategic agreement on gas supply. China has signed agreements to take substantial percentage of Turkmenistan's gas exports.

Unlike us, the South Asians,

agreed to fast track the TAPI project and even appoint a consortium.

Countries involved in the TAPI have agreed and concluded Gas Sale and Purchase Agreement. Even Afghanistan, which was initially interested in only transit rights have signed an agreement with Turkmenistan to buy a portion of gas for domestic use. (India and Pakistan are to purchase 38 percent each of the total gas from Turkmenistan).

Another major positive development in the TAPI process has been the approval by Asian Development Bank (ADB) as Transaction Advisor and the signing of the "Transaction Advisory Services Agreement (TASA)."

Under the agreement, the four countries have agreed to pay 50,000 USD per month to the ADB. In return the ADB will advise and assist forming a consortium to take the process forward.

Besides what is happening

within the TAPI, few developments outside will also give a new confidence to the entire process.

First, the foreign minister of India has made a statement that Russia is keen to join the TAPI process. The Ambassador of Kazakastan to India has been quoted in an interview stating that his country will also be happy to be a part and be willing to export the crude to India along with the TAPI pipeline.

If TAPI could be extended in the north to tap the Russian fields and get Moscow into the process, the TAPI process would not only get strengthened but also expand the process. Presence of other countries such as Russia will not only expand the stakes and interests, but also provide an international assurance.

Besides Russia, the US has also made a huge positive statement, which would have an impact on the TAPI. The Iran nuclear deal essentially means the willingness of Washington to work with Teheran. More than what Iran would get out of the deal, it would be important to understand how this deal with Iran would impact on the regional energy cooperation.

After committing to Iran-Pakistan-India pipeline, New Delhi had to withdraw its support to the IPI, primarily due to pressure from the US. Obsessed with strangulating Teheran through sanctions, the US came down heavily on India and pressurized New Delhi to go slow on the IPI pipeline.

Now, with a nuclear deal from its own side, US will have less leverage to pressurize India against the IPI. For India, both the pipelines are important, if it has to meet the energy demands and maintain the economic growth.

So what do the above mean?

TAPI will become a reality in 2017, and gas will start flowing into India from T urkmenistan via Afghanistan and Pakistan? There are still issues - bilateral relations between Afghanistan and Pakistan, and Pakistan and India; and the political situation in Afghanistan post 2014.

However, recent developments also highlight, despite the inherent issues, the target looks less unlikely. Perhaps 2013-14 could very well become the tipping point in implementing the TAPI pipeline.

The writer is Director, IPCS

Old order changes

I

n a spectacular show, the BJP has won three States outright in the recent Indian elections but has lost some sheen to the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi, which is emerging as a new force that could have a significant impact on the General Elections just four months away. No one had given a chance to Arvind Kejriwal's party in Delhi with both the Congress and BJP dismissing it as an upstart, a bubble which will soon disappear. But with its symbolic election symbol of a broom, it has swept away many a stalwart of the old type of politics. Indeed, many pundits lamented the folly of Kejriwal to himself contest against the popular and redoubtable chief minister of Delhi for 15 years, Shiela Dixit. Votaries of old style of politics felt that as a chief minister aspirant himself, he could have chosen a safe seat because if he were to lose (which was thought certain) his party would have left no face to show. But he went ahead with his bold gamble and was rewarded with a victory over the tallest Congress leader of Delhi with an impressive margin of more than 25,000 votes.

In the BJP victories in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh the role of the aggressive campaigning by its PM candidate Narendra Modi was a big factor. Large enthusiastic crowds thronged his nationwide rallies and applauded his exposure of the old style Congress leadership and their failures; laying a large part of the blame for corruption and incompetence on the first family of the Congress - the dynasty represented by Sonia and Rahul Gandhi. Indeed the latter, the undisclosed PM candidate of the Congress, was responsible for much of the rout in Rajasthan and Delhi with his speeches of empty promises and glorification of his own dynasty. Whether the Congress learns a lesson from this debacle or not, its defeat in the 2014 elections is certain going by the strong anti-Congress mood evident in these elections.

The BJP has to introspect about its failure to reach the majority mark in Delhi. So far Delhi had been a two-party affair - either the Congress or the BJP. After the fatigue of a 15-year Congress incumbency, it should have been a cakewalk for the BJP. But stopping it from majority, the AAP with its clean image, transparency about funding and honest candidates with no bank balance has trumped their complacency. The conventional politicians did not realize how the AAP was capitalizing on the discontent of the people - in the inflated electricity bills, the water shortage, the bad roads and the corrupt and haughty bureaucracy. It needs to be remembered that BJP was also in power in Delhi through the Municipal Corporation and was equally guilty of corruption.

The BJP has to keep in mind that the entry of AAP can queer its pitch on the national stage as well. So far it was felt that in the national elections, it is the regional parties and not the Congress which will be the main opponent of the BJP. But the regional parties are also stagnant today and are not votaries for change. The younger voters, who made such a splash possible for the AAP in Delhi, could again go for it at the national level if it promises change as against the status quo of the regional party.

There is no denying that the scenario has opened up the field for Narendra Modi. With his aggressive campaigning combined with strong leadership in the regions can make his march to Delhi more feasible. There have been desperate attempts by the Congress to hobble him by unleashing the CBI on him or letting loose a sting or two. But this is now seen through by the electorate as Congress dirty tricks. The strategy was tried against Arvind Kejriwal and some of his candidates but it has had the opposite effect on the electorate.

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