IndiaPost_12-16-2011 by Ghanshyam Bisht

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Amb. Nirupama Rao

House Caucus reception for Amb. Rao Details on page 8

Scientist Amit Goyal wins big award Details on page 10

FDI in retail suspended to avoid polls Details on page 5

INDIA POST SURVEY

VOL 17, No. 901

December 16, 2011

50¢

Periodical Postage

HARVARD DROPS SWAMY OVER 'HATE SPEECH'

SRIREKHA CHAKRAVARTY

Swamy dropping hurts freedom of speech? Last week’s result

Extra tax on NRIs is a negative move? YES 87%

NO 13%

Meeting Indian officials key to strategy: Fai Details on page 6

India Post News Service

AAPI's Health Summit in Hyderabad

Details on page40

Sikh man stabbed at Fresno airport

Harvard has set 'dangerous principle': Swamy

Details on page 21

Bollywood bids farewell to Dev Anand

Details on page 5

survey@indiapost.com This week’s question

Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai

In August, Swamy published an oped that called for the destruction of hundreds of Indian mosques and the disenfranchisement of non-Hindus in India, leading to widespread protests across India and even vandalizing of Swamy's residence in New Delhi.

Details on page 25

CONTENTS

Details on page 5

Bollywood ---------------------- 34-35 Classifieds ------------------------- 48 Community Post -------------- 13-21 Date Book -------------------------- 23 Edit Page --------------------------- 50 HealthScience Post --------- 40-43 Horoscope ------------------------- 47 Immigration Post ------------- 36-39 Life Style ----------------------- 24-28 Philosophy ------------------------- 49

REACHING OUT: Myanmar democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi holds the hand of visiting US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton following their meeting at Suu Kyi's residence in Yangon on December 2. (Details on page 9)

Certified by “CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL Readership 117,765”

Publisherís Diary ------------------ 4 TechBiz Post ------------------- 44-45 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 29-31

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December 16, 2011

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Publisher’s Diary

lright, let's brace ourselves for yet another overrated show of theatrics as Congress hurtles down for a showdown with the Obama Administration on extending payroll tax cuts. We have witnessed this game countless times before where President Obama throws up a piece of crucial legislation and Congress fails to pass it or if it does, not until the eleventh hour, holding the entire country to ransom. It's no different this time - the country is under a cloak of suspense - will they, won't they? Congress has just days left until December 31 to vote to extend the payroll tax cut. If it doesn't, taxes for 160 million Americans will go up by $1000 on January 1, 2012. If they indeed manage to vote before that, average American families will get a tax relief of $1,500 next year. President Obama has told Congress to put country before party and stop wasting time. If only it was as simple telling them what to do or not, let alone telling them to do the right thing. So okay, it was a tax holiday, when originally introduced last year, and not meant to be permanent. Like House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-Wisconsin) said: "It's a holiday… and holidays come, holidays go." Just how profound is that, now? So here's where the impasse lies: A Democratic bill sought to extend and expand the payroll tax cut by raising taxes on income over a million dollars a year. That failed because Republicans didn't support it. Then, there was a Republican measure, which called for freezing federal government worker pay and eliminating federal jobs. As it turns out, even the Republicans didn't support it. And here's the screechy refrain from the aisles: Democrats say that Republicans will do nothing so the economy will crash, and Obama won't get re-elected. And the Republicans say, Democrats come up with bills set to fail so the president can rile against a dysfunctional Congress. Democracy, you realize, can be as much of a curse, as it can be a boon when lawmakers ostensibly represent special interests and stop representing the electorate. Here's to Holidays, anyway!

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HIGHLIGHTS Bollywood: Isabelle for Ishkq Preity Zinta has signed French actress Isabelle Adjani to play the central role in her maiden venture Ishkq In Paris.

Cover Story: Swamy dumped Harvard University has decided to drop Indian politician and activist Dr. Subramanian Swamy off its roster for alleged hate speech.

Community: Green branch Skokie Mayor George Van Dusen and 100 plus invitees were present at the launching First Bank & Trust green branch.

Health: Warning to men Sperm from healthy men placed under a laptop wirelessly connected died twice as fast as those that were not exposed.

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Life Style: Dev anecdotes On his blog titled "My uncle Dev Anand, the man no one knew…", Shekhar Kapur remembers several interesting anecdotes.

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Travel: Periyar National Park Situated within the confines of the Western Ghats in Kerala, Periyar National Park is one of the most captivating parks.

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December 16, 2011

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Harvard drops Swamy over 'hate speech' SRIREKHA CHAKRAVARTY India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Harvard University, an institution founded on the principles of free speech, appears to be woefully conflicted in the implementation of that very principle. After having expressly stood by Indian politician and activist Dr. Subramanian Swamy, a Summer School Economics professor at the University for a purported anti-Muslim op-ed in an Indian newspaper in August this year, has decided to pull him off its roster. In August, Swamy published an op-ed that called for the destruction of hundreds of Indian mosques and the disenfranchisement of non-Hindus in India, leading to widespread protests across India and even vandalizing of Swamy's residence in New Delhi. At that time, rejecting calls in the

US for his removal from the Harvard faculty, the University decided to stand by him citing the principles of free speech.

In August, Swamy published an op-ed that called for the destruction of hundreds of Indian mosques and the disenfranchisement of non-Hindus in India, leading to widespread protests On Dec 6, however, at a faculty meeting, members chose to remove the two summer economics course at the Summer School

taught by Swamy, the Harvard Crimson reported. The Crimson reports that a heated debate ensued at the Dec 6 faculty meeting when Comparative Religion Professor Diana L. Eck proposed an amendment to exclude Swamy's economics course from the Summer School course catalogue. "Swamy's op-ed clearly crosses the line by demonizing an entire religious community and calling for violence against their sacred places," Eck was quoted in the Crimson. "There is a distinction between unpopular and unwelcome political views." Effectively removing Swamy from Harvard's teaching roster, many faculty felt the said article was not a product of free speech, but of hate speech. "[Swamy's position on disenfranchisement] is like saying Jewish Americans and African

Harvard has set 'dangerous principle': Swamy

Subramanian Swamy

NEW DELHI: Janata Party chief Subramanian Swamy has termed as a "dangerous principle" the decision of Harvard University to remove courses taught by him, saying it "stifles" personal opinion. In his reaction to the University calling as "reprehensible" his views in a controversial piece he wrote on Islamic terrorism, he

‘If tomorrow anyone writes rubbish about India, they come here, then they can be punished here for what they write in America’

said the University should have first sought his comments which was a normal procedure but that had not been done. "The decision of the University to discontinue my classes is a dangerous principle that stifles personal opinion," Swamy, who taught at the American institution's annual summer school session, said. The University, he said, should have a re-look at the decision. Noting that he had been held accountable at Harvard for what he wrote in India, he said that the "dangerous thing" the University has done was to make their professors responsible for what they wrote elsewhere in the world. "The article was written for a Mumbai newspaper and I teach economics in Harvard. I would assume that they would have sent their petition to me asking for my comments which is a normal procedure. But they have not done that," he said. "If tomorrow anyone writes on India and writes rubbish about India, they come here, then they can be punished here for what they write in America. That would be a dangerous principle. Harvard should look at it," he said. IIT, Delhi "sacked me in 1973. Four years later, I became a member of the IIT Board of Governors, the very body which had sacked me," Swamy said. -PTI

Americans should not be allowed to vote unless they acknowledge the supremacy of white Anglo Saxon Protestants,"

‘Swamy's op-ed clearly crosses the line by demonizing an entire religious community and calling for violence against their sacred places,’ Eck was quoted in the Crimson History Professor Sugata Bose was quoted in the campus publication. "I find (Swamy's) position

reprehensible, but on the other hand, it is our duty to support departments and their offerings," Dean of the Summer School Donald H. Pfister said. Philosophy Department Chair Sean D. Kelly, who also serves as vice-chair of the Faculty Docket Committee, initially defended the unanimous decision of Harvard's Faculty Council to keep Swamy on the teaching roster as an effort to preserve free speech at the school and kick the vote to the faculty-wide meeting. He, however, voted along with the majority faculty members to remove Swamy's courses. The revised catalog was consequently approved. "I was persuaded ... that the views expressed in Dr. Swamy's op-ed piece amounted to incitement of violence instead of protected political speech," he wrote in an email to The Crimson.

FDI in retail suspended to avoid mid-term polls: Pranab NEW DELHI: Strongly defending its decision to allow FDI in retail, Indian Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee told Congress MPs that the government was "compelled" to suspend the move to avoid "pre-mature elections". Addressing the Congress Parliamentary Party, Mukherjee also apologized to members who had supported the government in allowing FDI in retail but said going ahead with the decision could have created a "crisis" for the government. "I am sorry to those members who had supported FDI in retail and might be feeling let down. But if we had gone ahead it could have created a crisis for the government," he said. A member quoted Mukherjee as saying that had the government gone ahead, it could have led to mid-term polls. It was the responsibility of the Congress to take allies on board, he said in an apparent reference to Trinamool Congress which had opposed the decision. Trinamool Congress, a UPA

constituent and partner in the government, had said it would vote in favor of an Adjournment Motion against FDI in retail. This stand had created a piquant situation for the government, Mukherjee said pointing out that an Adjournment Motion was similar to a no-confidence

Pranab Mukherjee

motion and never before has any party in the government voted in favor of such a motion. "This compelled us to put the brake on FDI decision," he said. Making it clear that suspension of the FDI decision did not amount to roll-back, Mukherjee said that the government would strive to develop a consensus on the issue. -PTI

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Meeting Indian officials fundamental to strategy: Fai SRIREKHA CHAKRAVARTY India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Even as he pleaded guilty to federal charges last week of spying for the Pakistani spy agency and illegally lobbying the US Congress to influence American policy on Kashmir, Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai of Kashmiri American Council (KAC) threw a parting shot at India by detailing

not elsewhere, but India itself." In the statement circulated to the media through email, Fai said, "Meeting with Indian officials was fundamental to my strategy in communicating with New Delhi to find the means by which we as Kashmiri Americans could contribute to peace in that part of the world and in resolving the crisis in Kashmir." Fai further said: "During the

Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai

his regular interactions with high level Indian government officials over the years, implying thus that India was fully aware of his activities. In a lengthy statement issued Dec 7 at the Alexandria Court House in Virginia, Fai said the most important constituency which needs to be addressed "is not United States, not Pakistan,

past twenty years, I along with Ambassador Yusuf Buch, former Senior Advisor to the United Nations Secretary General and late Dr. Ayub Thuker, President, World Kashmir Freedom Movement, have met with various Indian Cabinet Ministers, belonging to the administrations of Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar, Prime Minister Narasimha Rao, Prime

Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee and current Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh. And during the past eleven years, I also met with four different officials at the Indian embassy who succeeded each other periodically and introduced me to the new incoming official before leaving for a new post." Fai said that it had always been his habit to keep the channel of communication open to the Indian embassy. "I have met with the officials of Indian embassy in Washington since 1999, sometimes monthly, sometimes bi-monthly. From March 2006 onward we met monthly and at times twice a month. Whenever we had a seminar or a conference on Kashmir I would invite the Indian ambassador to speak. I had a habit of exchanging information and establishing the details in advance with an official of the embassy, and then a final copy of the invitation for the ambassador would be given to the official, whom I usually met at a public cafeteria." Significantly, Fai claims an Indian official had called him either on July 18 or July 19, 2011, the day he was arrested. "He (the Indian official) left a voicemail that we must meet, which I heard ten days later after my release." Although in court he conceded to receiving talking points from Pakistan's spy agency ISI regarding what to say and write and directions from ISI with regard to which specific individuals to invite for KAC conferences, Fai said had it been true that he was being

dictated by someone from New Delhi or Islamabad, then he would not have written the various articles in American publications pushing for self determination for Kashmiris. Fai also elaborately established in his statement that the US has irrevocably championed the right of Kashmiris to determine their future. In a bid to safeguard his American interests, he further said: "As an American of Kashmiri origin, I am profoundly grateful to the Administration for upholding

sition on the question of sovereignty over Kashmir nor on the desirability or otherwise of the partition or reunification of the State. Both these questions need to be set aside if the dispute is to be put on the road to a settlement," he said, adding, "There is nothing in the United Nations plan that is incompatible with pluralism. We do not wish to foreclose any of the three possible options for the people: independence, accession to Pakistan or accession to India."

‘I had a habit of exchanging information and establishing the details in advance with an official of the embassy, and then a final copy of the invitation for the ambassador would be given to the official, whom I usually met at a public cafeteria’ the position of principle." On the point of self-determination and Azadi for Kashmir, Fai said that between India's insistence that a settlement must be "within the four corners of the Indian constitution" and Pakistan's demand that it must be based on the international agreement embodied in the UN Security Council resolutions, there cannot be a meeting point which the two governments can find by themselves. "There needs to be a third way which neither admits nor challenges any claim or propo-

The Kashmir conflict was never a fight between Hindus and Muslims, Fai said. "It was never a struggle between theocracy and secularism. It has always been about the destiny and future of 17 million people of Kashmir, be they Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs or Buddhists." In conclusion of his statement, Fai says for a lasting solution to the Kashmir issue: "Compromises are the staple of conflict resolution. To achieve some good is worthwhile even though not all good is achieved."

ISI had full sway over Fai and his organization WASHINGTON: Separatist Syed Ghulam Nabi Fai and his Kashmiri American Council were under full control of ISI, being run as an extension of Pakistan's spy agency to convince US lawmakers, officials and think tanks about their viewpoint on Kashmir, according to latest court documents. As part of the plea agreement, federal US Government Attorney and Fai signed a 26page State of Fact document which reveals in details not only the modus operandi of Fai, his relationship with ISI, but also his budget for annual contributions to lawmakers which ranged from USD 80,000 to USD 1000,000 per annum. According to this "Statement of Fact", Fai received at least USD 3.5 million (over Rs 16 crores as estimated on current rates) since 1990 for his KAC

work to advance Pakistan's interest on Kashmir in the US. Running into 81 paragraphs, the Statement of Facts also identifies the names of the ISI officials who were Fai's handlers or ac-

Fai received at least USD 3.5 million (over Rs 16 crores as estimated on current rates) since 1990 for his KAC work to advance Pakistan's interest on Kashmir in the US quaintances in Pakistan. The officials Fai dealt with were Javeed Aziz Khan also known as "Brigadier Abdullah ('Khan')" who

handled Kashmiri affairs in the mid-1990s; major general Mumtaz Ahmad Bajwa, who in late 2008 became head of the ISI's Security Directorate that oversees Kashmiri militant groups, Lieutenant Colonel Touqeer Mehmood Butt, and Sohail Mahmood also known as "Mir". Fai told US District Judge O'Grady, when asked by the latter, that all information provided in this "Statement of Fact" were true and then later signed it also in the court. In return for financial contributions, Fai submitted to his ISI handlers KAC's annual budget for approval. The annual document was normally titled "Strategy Document for the Kashmiri-American Council, Washington DC USA" and sent to the ISI in the month of December. These documents described KAC's plans to provide

information to Executive Branch officials, use Congress to highlight the issue of Kashmir, and offset the Indian lobby, said the statement of fact. For instance, KAC's strategy

The annual document was normally titled "Strategy Document for the Kashmiri-American Council, Washington DC USA" and sent to the ISI in the month of December document for the year 2000 listed its three top objectives - to persuade the administration that self determination in Kashmir would

advance national interests of the US; influence Congress; and capture media attention to influence debate on Kashmir. The Strategy Document for 2000 detailed KAC's budget requirements for that year to be USD 490,000, including USD 80,000 for contributions to members of Congress, USD 100,000 for a conference, USD 60,000 for seminars, USD 50,000 for opinion pieces to be distributed to newspapers, and USD 30,000 to organize a Congressional trip to Kashmir. The Strategy Documents for the later years detailed budgets of USD 455,000 in 2001, USD 490,000 in 2005, and USD 719,000 in 2006. Each of the budgets allotted between USD 80,000 and USD 100,000 for these different heads. Cont’d on page 7

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ISI funneled millions to influence US policy on Kashmir: FBI WASHINGTON: Pakistan's powerful spy agency ISI funneled millions of dollars for more than two decades to influence US policy on Kashmir through separatist leader Ghulam Nabi Fai, according to FBI. A 43-page affidavit filed by the FBI in a US Court in July after it arrested Fai had said that the Kashmiri separatist was illegally lobbying for Pakistan. Fai, 62, is the director of the Kashmiri American Council, a Washington-based group that lobbies for "self-determination" for Kashmir. Its activities, the affidavit said, is funded by ISI. The money includes USD 100,000 given to political campaigns every year. Foreign governments are prohibited from making donations to American political candidates. "The investigation has led me to conclude that Fai has acted at the direction and with financial support of the Government of Pakistan for more than 20 years ... although Fai has some latitude to decide his day-to-day activities, the Government of Pakistan long

has directed and funded his lobbying and public relations in the US," Sarah Webb Linden, Special Agent, FBI had said. The affidavit, filed before the US court on July 18 was made public after Fai was arrested. "Mr Fai is accused of a de-

‘Mr Fai is not a Pakistani citizen and the govt and embassy of Pakistan have no knowledge of the case involving him,’ said a spokesman of the Pakistani Embassy cades-long scheme with one purpose - to hide Pakistan's involvement behind his efforts to influence the US government's position on Kashmir," Neil MacBride, the US Attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia, had said.

"His handlers in Pakistan allegedly funneled millions through the Kashmir Center to contribute to US elected officials, fund highprofile conferences and pay for other efforts that promoted the Kashmiri cause to decision-makers in Washington." Pakistan, however, had denied knowledge of the case. "Mr Fai is not a Pakistani citizen and the govt and embassy of Pakistan have no knowledge of the case involving him," said a spokesman of the Pakistani Embassy in Washington. The chargesheet also named another US citizen, Zaheer Ahmad, who lives in Pakistan and was allegedly the main person through which the ISI funneled money to Fai to lobby at the Capitol Hill. "I also know that Fai's handlers regularly communicate with Ahmad. For example, Ahmad's email account revealed contact information for Khan. Similar information was revealed from an examination of Ahmad's PDA upon his arrival to the US at Kennedy Airport in New York on July 8, 2009," Linden had said.-PTI

Fai pleads guilty of being ISI agent in US WASHINGTON: In a major embarrassment to the ISI, USbased Kashmiri separatist leader Syed Ghulam Nabi Fai, pleaded guilty to federal charges of spying for the Pakistani spy agency and illegally lobbying the Congress to influence the American policy on Kashmir. Fai, 62, also acknowledged secretly receiving money from the ISI through clandestine routes and causing revenue losses to the US government to the tune of USD 200,000 to 400,000. Pleading before the US Eastern District Court of Virginia, Fai, head of the Kashmiri American Council (KAC) pleaded guilty and agreed to the charges of federal prosecutors that he received at least USD 3.5 million from ISI between 1990 to 2011. His sentencing is scheduled for March 9. Fai agreed before the court that he was in direct contact with the ISI officials including the head of its security directorate. The guilty plea was announced by Neil MacBride, US Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. He conceded receiving talking points from ISI regarding what to say and write. He agreed that he received directions from ISI with regard to which specific individuals to invite for KAC conferences. Fai has consented to forfeit all four bank accounts in his name or

in the name of KAC totaling about USD 140,000. He also agreed before the court that he had send to the ISI annual budget of the KAC for approval. "For the last 20 years, Mr. Fai secretly took millions of dollars from Pakistani intelligence and lied about it to the US government," said US Attorney MacBride. "As a paid operative of ISI, he did the bidding of his handlers in

Pakistan while he met with US elected officials, funded high-profile conferences, and promoted the Kashmiri cause to decision-makers in Washington." "Syed Fai has admitted his role in a decades-long scheme to conceal the fact that the government of Pakistan was secretly funding his efforts to influence US policy on Kashmir," said Assistant Attorney General Monaco.-PTI

ISI had full sway over Fai and his organization Cont’d from page 6

On January 1, 2008, Fai emailed Khan a document which contained a complete accounting of FAI's activities for 2007, including 33 meetings with members of Congress, Congressional staff, the National Security Council, and State Department. "Fai inflated his annual budgets and embellished his reports of his accomplishments in order to obtain the maximum amount of money," it said. These documents also revealed that it is at the direction of ISI that Fai and KAC raised the issue of mass graves in Kashmir. "In April and May 2008, Khan

sent Fai three e-mails asking Fai to highlight the issue of mass graves recently discovered in Indian-controlled Kashmir. Fai then raised the topic at his Ninth International Kashmir Peace Conference, held on Capitol Hill in July 2008, and sent a letter to UN Secretary General Ban-ki Moon that mentioned mass graves," the statement said. The document shows that Fai also kept Khan in loop about the individuals being invited KAC's conferences and also asked him to provide the names of invitees from India and Pakistan besides keeping him informed about his meetings.-PTI

Fai communicated with ISI people in coded language WASHINGTON: ISI's Security against Fai in July also referred to Directorate was referred to as the many of these coded messages of 'library in Islamabad' while the communication. phrase 'half a dozen Brylcreem' For instance the 'Tall Man' was denoted a sum of USD 60,000 in a the ISI Major General Mumtaz series of coded messages used by Ahmad Bajwa, 'Mir Saheb' was Kashmiri separatist Ghulam Nabi Mahmood. Fai to communicate with his hanMany of these coded landlers in Pakistan. The separatist, who pleaded guilty to If ‘The library in Islamabad’ charges of spying for ISI and illegally lobby- was the code for the ISI's ing to influence AmeriSecurity Directorate, ‘157 can policy on Kashmir, sent coded messages to page draft’ was the code his handlers and those related to money trans- language for USD 157,000 fer matters to deceive American authorities, according to court documents. guages were in medical terminolSo, if "The library in ogy. Islamabad" was the code for the For instance '30 plus' was the ISI's Security Directorate, "157 coded reference to USD 30,000 for page draft" was the code language Fai. for USD 157,000, says the court "Brylcreem, 75 miligram" was documents now part of the plea the coded language for USD agreement between Fai, 62, and 75,000; while "half a dozen the US Government. Brylcreem" was the code for Under the plea agreement Fai 60,000. "Last edition" meant last pleaded guilty to the two charges installment of the money. against him - concealing from US According to the affidavit, authorities that he was acting on April 7, 2011, Lieutenant Colonel behalf of the ISI and the Govern- Touqeer Mehmood Butt wrote an ment of Pakistan and secondly email to Fai saying, "Likely to meet violation of tax laws. with friend Doctor today for need In his communication, "Seeing full". the doctor" referred to seeing Fai responded the next day by (Zaheer) Ahmad, and was regard- writing "Doctor Sahib already ining money. formed me that Aspirin was the The phrase "visiting the doc- right medicine which has been detor" was coded language for "ar- livered". ranging money to be sent by The next day, Butt wrote back, Ahmad to Fai," and that the refer- "Go as per the advice of doctor, ence "1:50" represented the but keep the dose low". amount USD 150,000," it said. "I believe that Fai and Butt Federal prosecutors said that were using coded language to disFai, between 1990 and 2011, re- cuss Fai's financial transactions ceived more than USD 3.5 million with Ahmad, and that Butt was from the ISI with Ahmed being the via medium. During one of the ‘Brylcreem, 75 miligram’ was transfers of money, "fifteen copies" was the the coded language for USD code for USD 15,000 75,000; while ‘half a dozen and "two" meant USD 200,000. Brylcreem’ was the "On August 30, 2009, Khan e-mailed Fai that code for 60,000 Khan 'saw the doctor' and that '(the doctor's) consultation fee has increased by warning Fai not to spend (or rerupees 150'". Khan's use of the quest) too much money," Sarah phrase "saw the doctor" was a Webb Linden, the Special FBI coded reference to the fact that Agent, said in her affidavit to the Khan had spoken with Ahmad, court in July. and approved the funding request In another email, Fai's ISI hanthat Fai made to him for USD dler Butt asked Fai for additional 150,000 on August 4, 2009, the information to "complete my upstatement said. date for elders". Javeed Aziz Khan also known Linden said by this phrase Butt as "Brigadier Abdullah ('Khan')" was briefing Fai's information up was the ISI handler of Fai in his chain of command and that Fai Islamabad. was aware his information had a The affidavit filed by the FBI greater audience than just Butt.

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Following Senate, House Caucus hosts reception for Amb. Rao India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Following the rare honor of a welcome reception accorded by the Senate India Caucus to the Indian Ambassador in Washington DC, the House India Caucus held a similar reception Dec 1, on Capitol Hill for Amb. Nirupama Rao. The Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans (also known as the House India Caucus) led by its co-chairs, Congressman Ed Royce of California and Congressman Joseph Crowley of New York welcomed Ambassador Nirupama Rao as India's new Ambassador in Washington at the packed reception in the Rayburn Building at Capitol Hill. The event was attended by a large number of US lawmakers, administration officials, journalists, academics and prominent Indian Americans. Deputy Secretary of State William Burns was also present. In his welcome remarks, Congressman Royce pledged that the House India Caucus would work with Amb. Rao to help Americans better understand the many benefits that closer engagement with India brings to both nations. "We want to have our closest relationship with those who share our values," he said. India, he added, was just such a country. Congressman Crowley said that he was confident that the already-strong ties of the United States with India "will mature and

will grow." Deputy Secretary Burns praised Ambassador Rao and the ever-improving relationship between India and the United States. He called the Ambassador "an

US relations and of the Indian American community in the United States. "The House India Caucus has been a tremendous source of strength in promoting India-US relations for almost two

Indian Ambassador to the US, Nirupama Rao at a reception hosted at the Capitol Hill, Washington DC, on December 1. Congressmen Joseph Crowley and Ed Royce, Co-Chairs of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, also seen

extraordinarily gifted diplomat" and a "champion of Indo-American relations" which, he said, was pivotal to maintaining a stable and economically sound world. He expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the House India Caucus, which he described as "one of the largest bipartisan caucuses in Congress." Ambassador Rao thanked the Caucus for its many years of work in advancing the cause of India-

decades now," she said. "It has done a commendable job in focusing public opinion and the attention of governments in both our countries on the importance of our partnership, even at a time when it was difficult to imagine that we would achieve the depth and the expanse of this relationship as we enjoy today." Terming the Indo-US relations as an "epic saga of a great new partnership built upon common

Parliament mourns Dev Anand NEW DELHI: Parliament mourned the death of legendary actor-filmmaker Dev Anand, who breathed his last on December 3 at the age of 88. In the Lok Sabha, Speaker Meira Kumar said Dev Anand had mesmerized generations of cinema goers within the country and outside with his on-screen performance. "Though the void created by his demise would never be filled, his films would continue to enthrall his fans and movie goers," she said in an obituary reference. Dada Saheb Phalke awardee, Dharam Dev Anand was born in 1923 in Punjab's Gurudaspur district and began his career in the

values, shared interests, converging interests and a shared vision of the world" Ambassador Rao further said, "In my experience of the Indo-US relationship and my dealing with issues that concern

military censor's office in Bombay in 1940. He died in London following a cardiac arrest. Apart from various national

and international awards, he received Padma Bhushan in 2001. "Dev Anand was a trendsetter, credited with giving many new actors break into the film industry and experimenting with various

social issues ahead of his times in his films," Rajya Sabha Chairman Hamid Ansari said. A creative genius with a unique personality and acting style, Dev Anand would always be remembered for the roles he played in his films and the rich repertoire of acclaimed films which he has left behind, he said. Deeply mourning the passing away of the actor, Ansari said the country has lost a cinematic icon and the void would be very difficult to fill. Members of both the Houses observed silence as a mark of respect to the memory of the departed actor. -PTI

this relationship over the last two years in my tenure as India's foreign secretary - I have been especially privileged to have the support, the encouragement and the cooperation of colleagues and friends like Deputy Secretary Burns." "The extraordinarily positive vibrations of our relationship are most evident every time I visit the United States Congress," she added. "In my long diplomatic

career, I have seldom witnessed such goodwill and desire to improve the relations between our two countries in such a high office." Illinois Representative Mike Quigley said, "India is a diverse and complex nation and a vital international partner to the United States. The importance of India to America's economy and national security cannot be overestimated. Ambassador Rao's expertise and knowledge will no doubt play an important role in further developing US-India relations." Rep. Quigley, a member of the India Caucus, is currently serving his second term in the House of Representatives, where he sits on the House Committees on the Judiciary and Oversight and Government Reform. Many members of the House India Caucus, from both political parties, including Ranking Member of the House Foreign Relations Committee, Congressman Howard Berman, and former chair of House India Caucus, Congressman Gary Ackerman attended the evening reception, which featured Indian food. The House India Caucus was founded in 1993 with 12 members. With a current membership of close to 160 lawmakers, it is among the largest caucuses of its kind in the US Congress. The reception of December 1 followed a similar welcome hosted by the Senate India Caucus for Ambassador Rao on November 29, 2011.

India becomes third biggest US arms purchaser WASHINGTON: Just years after US resumed weapons sales to New Delhi, India has jumped to become third biggest arms purchaser from America logging contracts worth over USD 4.5 billion last year alone. Had the US firms bagged India's biggest ever deal for fighter jets, New Delhi would have been on the top spot of American arms sales worldwide, according to a Pentagon report. Even though the US firms lost the bid for an estimated USD 10 billion contract for sale of 126 jets to Indian Air Force (IAF), India was listed as the third largest purchaser of US arms through the government to government channel Foreign Military Sales (FMS) by the De-

fense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the Pentagon agency that overlooks such sales. Topping the list for the fiscal year 2011 ending September 30, 2011 were Afghan Security Forces (USD 5.4 billion) followed by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States (USD 4.9 billion). Australia with USD 3.9 billion occupies the fourth spot, followed by Saudi Arabia (USD 3.5 billion), Iraq (USD 2.0 billion), the UAE (USD 1.5 billion), Israel (USD 1.4 billion), Japan (USD 0.5 billion) and Sweden (USD 0.5 billion). American arms sales to India include Naval Reconnaissance planes, giant transporters, sea-skimming missiles and other weapon systems.-PTI

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Clinton meets Suu Kyi, lays down reform markers YANGON: Wrapping up a historic three-day visit to Myanmar, US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton met for a second time with former political prisoner Aung San Suu Kyi, this time for a more formal meeting at the lakeside residence where the Nobel laureate was kept under house arrest for much of the last two decades. Suu Kyi and her staff welcomed Clinton, who greeted Suu Kyi with two kisses on the cheek, saying: "It is just a great honor for me not only to be here but to see all of you." Clinton's meetings with Suu Kyi were the highlight of the US secretary of state's visit to the long-isolated country also known as Burma and forcefully underscored a US challenge to its leaders: The new civilian government must expand recent reforms, including the release of political prisoners, to improve relations as it emerges from more than a halfcentury of repressive military rule. "We believe that any political prisoner anywhere should be released," Clinton told reporters. "One political prisoner is one too many in our view." US officials warned that even the modest incentives Clinton offered to

Myanmar's new, military-backed leaders would come off the table if the country fails the politicalprisoners and other tests of reform. In meetings with top Myanmar officials in the capital of Naypyidaw and then with Suu Kyi in the commercial hub of Yangon, Clinton said the country's leaders must end violent campaigns against ethnic minorities and break military ties with North Korea.

India needs to do more WASHINGTON: Hours after the Hillary Clinton landed on a historic trip to Myanmar, the country's pro-democratic leader, Aung San Suu Kyi said that India needs to do more in her country to establish true democracy. "I think India, as a democracy... certainly we would like India to do more to promote democratic values in Myanmar," Suu Kyi told members of a Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), a Washington based think tank, and reporters in a rare live conversation with Skype. Responding to questions on China, Suu Kyi said she has al-

ways emphasized the fact that the This is not, of course, entirely the two countries have always had fault of the UN Security Council good relationship and she would veto alone, which is enough to like that to continue. "We have stop some suggested plan from enjoyed quite a good record of going forward," she said. friendship, friendly relation to China, and I would like to maintain that," she said. "I hope that whatever little snags may have arisen along the road, we will be able to overcome them and be able to maintain our friendly relations with China. And I do not think simply because we believe in different Pro-democracy opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi systems of govand US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton embrace ernment, we need while speaking after meeting at Suu Kyi's residence in necessarily be Yangon, Myanmar, December 2 hostile to one another," she said. The Myanmar "So it is very difficult for the leader said the United Nations can UN to do everything that they play a more proactive role in her might wish to do, but still, I would country. very much like the UN to be more "I have to confess that I think proactive in situations like that the UN could play a more pro- Myanmar," Suu Kyi said. active role in Myanmar and in "At the moment what we have many other parts of the world. to do is to find our way ahead as

best we can. It requires a bit of risk. I think we have to be prepared to take risks. But nothing is guaranteed. We can't ever expect a hundred per cent guarantee in politics, and certainly we can't expect that now. But we've got to make the best of the opportunities that have arisen over the last few months," Suu Kyi noted. She exuded confidence that the majority of the people of Myanmar want a peaceful, harmonious transition to democracy. "That is what we want. That is what we have been working for a long time. And since now it seems as though we have the opportunity to achieve our goal, we must do everything we can to go forward with a certain amount of caution, yes, but also, we have to be prepared to take risks. I've always believed in cautious optimism," the pro-democratic leader said. Suu Kyi said that she would be running for by-elections in the country. "I hope to run for Parliament. We are waiting to hear whether our party's application for registration has (been accepted). Once that's accepted; we can start making plans to contest the by-elections.â&#x20AC;? -(AP, PTI)

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Indian American scientist wins prestigious award India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Oak Ridge National Laboratory materials scientist and Corporate Fellow Amit Goyal has been named a winner of the Department of Energy's Ernest Orlando Lawrence Award honoring US scientists and engineers for exceptional contributions in research and development supporting DOE and its mission. Goyal, who currently chairs the UT-Battelle-ORNL Corporate Fellows Council, is a Battelle Distinguished Inventor whose research has had a profound impact on the field of high-temperature superconductivity, both in fundamental materials science and in the transition of scientific discoveries from the laboratory to the marketplace. "These researchers have made significant contributions to the national, economic and energy security of the United States," Secretary Steven Chu said in announcing the awards. "I congratulate the winners and thank them for their work on behalf of the Department and the Nation." The award in the inaugural category of Energy Science and Innovation recognizes transformative accomplishments related to

DOE's investments in "use inspired" scientific research to develop new understanding, methodologies and materials required to advance, promote, and enable energy innovation. Goyal's award cites his work in "pioneering research and transformative contributions to the field of applied high temperature

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;These researchers have made significant contributions to the national, economic and energy security of the United States,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Secretary Steven Chu said superconductivity, including fundamental materials science advances and technical innovations enabling large-scale applications of these novel materials." "Amit's Lawrence Award is extremely well deserved," said ORNL Director Thom Mason. "His materials research activities have

made practical use of novel materials such as high-temperature superconductors a reality." After completing his doctorate in materials science and engineering at the University of Rochester, Goyal joined ORNL in 1991. He also has a master's degree in mechanical and aerospace engineering from the University of Rochester. He earned a bachelor's degree from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, and has also received executive business training from the Krannert School of Management, Purdue University and the Sloan School of Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Goyal has co-authored more than 350 publications, published over 40 invited papers and book chapters, and has given more than 150 invited presentations in national and international conferences including plenary or keynote presentations. He has more than 50 issued patents and over 20 patent applications pending. A recent analysis of citations and papers published worldwide in the field of high-temperature superconductivity, between 1999-2009, conducted by Thompson-Reuters's

Essential Science Indicators (ESI), ranked him as the most cited author worldwide. Goyal has previously received many national and international awards. Among these are seven R&D100 Awards including the

Amit Goyal

2010 R&D Magazine's Innovator of the Year Award, three Federal Laboratory Consortium's National Awards, the Distinguished Scholar Medal from the University of Rochester, the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, the Massachusetts

Institute of Technology's Technology Review Magazine's TR100 Innovator Award, the NASA Techbrief's Nano50 Innovator Award, the Pride of India Gold Award, ORNL Inventor of Year (twice), the Global Indus Technovator Award, DOE's Energy-100 Award and the Lockheed-Martin NOVA Award. Goyal is a fellow of seven professional societies: the American Association for Advancement of Science, the American Physical Society, the World Innovation Foundation, the American Society of Metals, the Institute of Physics, the American Ceramic Society, and the World Technology Network. Originally from India, Goyal lives in Knoxville with his wife, Sujata, and their two children, Aditya and Divya. The Ernest Orlando Lawrence Award was established in 1959 in honor of the Nobel winning scientist who helped elevate American physics to world leadership. Lawrence's inventions include the cyclotron and the calutron, the latter of which was critical to the success of the wartime Manhattan Project. ORNL is managed by UTBattelle for DOE's Office of Science.

Oz calls India 'unique' case for uranium sale, no to Pak MELBOURNE: Calling India's case "unique", Australia has made it clear that the ruling Labor's decision to lift ban on uranium sales

fense cooperation, told ABC news channel. "Pakistan does not have the same record so far as proliferation

Earlier this week, Pakistani High Commissioner to Australia Abdul Malik Abdullah said the same concession should be made for Pakistan, which like India is not a signatory to the Nuclear non-Proliferation Treaty. Smith told the news channel that the uranium export policy change by Labor party was warmly welcomed in his faceto-face meetings in India. "What you could describe as an irritant or a grain of sand in the relationship is Australian Defense Minister Stephen Smith meeting the Defense Minister now gone. A. K. Antony, in New Delhi on December 7 And what we've agreed is that we can to New Delhi does not open doors is concerned. There have been do more and we should do more to Pakistan, which is demanding serious expressions of concern and we will do more in terms of similar treatment. about proliferation in the past," practical cooperation. And that "The circumstances for India he said. will particularly apply so far as our so far as export of uranium is conSecondly, Pakistan has not vol- navies are concerned," he said. cerned are in my view unique," untarily placed itself under the auSmith and his counterpart A K Defense Minister Stephen Smith, thority of the International Atomic Antony also discussed the joint who is currently visiting New Energy Agency or the Nuclear Australia-US base in Darwin, ABC Delhi to discuss security and de- Suppliers Group, Smith said. said. -PTI

DOUBLE TON: Indian batsman Virender Sehwag celebrates his double century during the 4th ODI cricket match against West Indies in Indore on December 8. He thus become the highest scorer in ODIs

December 16, 2011

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Indian activities in South China Sea 'commercial' NEW DELHI: The Government has said it had clearly conveyed to China that the oil and gas exploration activities by Indian companies in the South China Sea off the Vietnam coast are purely commercial in nature and the dispute should be sorted out in accordance with international laws. Oil exploration activities by India's ONGC Videsh in South China Sea waters

According to Ahamed, sovereignty over the areas of the South China Sea is disputed between many countries and India is not a party to that off Vietnam had recently irked China, which claims the region as its own and says activities by foreign companies in its waters undermine its sovereignty. "Government has clearly conveyed (China) that such activities by Indian companies is purely commercial in nature and

that sovereignty issues must be resolved peacefully by the countries which are parties to the dispute in accordance with international law and practice," E Ahamed, Minister of State for External Affairs, informed Rajya Sabha in a written reply. The South China Sea dispute has also figured in talks between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao in Bali last month on the sidelines of East Asia and ASEAN summits. According to Ahamed, sovereignty over the areas of the South China Sea is disputed between many countries and India is not a party to that. "As two developing countries with growing energy needs, India and Vietnam have been cooperating in the oil and gas industry to enhance their energy security," he explained. In another reply, the Minister said India doesn't have any information whether China has built a military airstrip in Coco island, too close to Andaman and Nicobar islands. "No information has come to our notice of any recent activities by China in this regard," he said. -PTI

US stuns climate meet, says 2 degree limit only a guidance DURBAN: The US shocked observers at the climate change conference here by saying that the 2 degree Celsius limit for increase in the Earth's temperature is not like a "national target" but only a "guidance". The 2 degree limit to global temperature rise was agreed in previous climate talks in Bali in 2007, and governments recognize its importance. The figure is based on the Fourth Assessment Report of the Inter-governmental panel on climate change (IPCC). Island nations, which are the most vulnerable to sink due to rising sea levels, wanted to set the cap at 1.5 degree Celsius. Scientists have been warning that if the Earth's temperature goes over the 2 degree Celsius, it will lead to dangerous irreversible consequences. "We look at 2 degrees as an important

and serious goal that will guide what we will do, Todd Stern, the US lead negotiator told reporters in this South African city. "That is still different from looking at it as an operational cap that you must meet." "I think if we look at science and you see the trajectories it ought to inform our sense of what needs to be done...it might cause us or someone else to say jeez we need to do more but we don't see it as akin to a national target," he added. "That's a nuance but that's a different." The US remarks came as the climate change talks kicked into the final stage. "It is maddening...I think the US position is becoming more and more paranoiac," said Pratap Pandey from the Centre of Science and Environment in Delhi. "It's fine to resort to rhetoric but it's pathetic to take recourse to nonsense." -PTI

US does not have leverage to make Pak handover Dawood, Omar KOLKATA: The US does not have the leverage on Pakistan to make it hand over the 1993 Mumbai blast mastermind Dawood Ibrahim and Taliban leader Mullah Omar to India, former U S ambassador to India Robert D Blackwill said here. "The US probably has less influence on Pakistan today than what it had in many years. Certainly since 9/11 (Mumbai attacks), the relationship has been so bad that to think the US is in a position to influence Islamabad on what India wants, which is to hand terrorists

over, is unrealistic," Blackwill told newsmen on the sidelines of an interaction here. Blackwill, Henry A Kissinger Senior Fellow for U S foreign policy at the Council on Foreign Relations, was replying to a query on what his country could do to pressure Pakistan in handing over Dawood and Omar to India. "The US does not have that kind of leverage on Pakistan and much as we would like (handing over of the two to India) to happen, Washington does not have the pressure points to make it happen," he said.-PTI

Google: Won't remove material just because it's controversial NEW DELHI: Amid the raging contro- are not willing to cooperate, "then it is the versy over content regulation online, duty of the government to think of steps Internet search giant Google India has said that we need". it complies with the law of the land but will The government has met the officials not remove any material just because it is from Google, Microsoft, Facebook and Yacontroversial. hoo over last few weeks after offensive "We work really hard to make sure that materials, particularly against Congress people have as much access to informa- leader Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister tion as possible, while also following the law. This means that when content is illegal, we â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Which content is legal and does not abide by local law and take it violate our policies, we will not redown. "And even where content move it just because it is controversial, is legal but breaks or violates our own terms and conditions as we believe that people's differing we take that down too, once views, so long as they are legal, we have been notified about it," a Google spokesperson should be respected and protected,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; said. the spokesperson added "But when content is legal and does not violate our policies, we will not remove it just because it is Manmohan Singh, were put on the Internet. controversial, as we believe that people's Search engine giant Yahoo! refused to differing views, so long as they are legal, comment on the views of the minister, while should be respected and protected," the Microsoft officials were not available for spokesperson added. comments. Telecom Minister Kapil Sibal had asked Social networking site Facebook, which social websites like Google and Facebook has more than 25 million users in the counto ensure that uploading of derogatory try, has said it will remove any content material online is stopped. that is hateful, threatening and incites He said the government does not want "violence" or contains nudity off the serto interfere but if social networking sites vice. -PTI

Desi News Geetha Mandalam celebrates Vibhava Sandhya Asian Media USA

CHICAGO: Geetha Mandalam Chicago celebrated Vibhava Sandhya, an evening with dinner and entertainment on Saturday, December 3 at Holiday Inn Skokie, IL. More than 300 people attended this program. The occasion was graced with participation by dignitaries and high ranking officials along with eminent public figures like Congressman Danny Davis, Secretary of State Jesse White, 49th ward Alderman Joe Moore, Skokie Mayor Van Dusan, Trustee Pramod Shah, Commission member George Mathew. Details on page 14

Sikh Kirtan and Hindu dance at Interfaith concert India Post News Service

WASHINGTON: More than 1,000 persons experienced the sacred songs, dances or chants from five world religions in the heart of Washington, the capital of America. The magnificent building of the Washington National Cathedral was filled with sweet sound of spiritual music of Sikh Kirtani Jatha and many other faith traditions during the 32th Interfaith concert organized by the Interfaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington (IFC). In addition to Sikhs, The Mormon Choir of Washington, the dancers from the United Hindu and Jain Temples Association.

COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA

Details on page 21

12 India Post

India Post News Service

CHICAGO: Vchilli recently was the host to a unique event that sought to support South Asian heritage, art and culture in Chicago. It was the launch of SATMA (South Asian Talent Management) here in the U.S and an attempt by Vchilli to give back to the community by providing a platform for the promotion of South Asian talent in the U.S. Fahim Ali is an amazing artist who is self-taught. His work ranges from historic events, Islamic calligraphy, Hindu mythology to people. His original painting of Tipu Sultan has been acquired by the National Museum of Pakistan. Details on page 17

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December 16, 2011

First green facility by First Bank & Trust formally launched RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service

CHICAGO: One of the inducing factors for Skokie Mayor George Van Dusen and 100 plus invitees and guests to attend the formal launching of the 2nd branch of the Evanston based First Bank & Trust in Skokie recently was that it would be the first of its type eco-

"The 3,600 square foot branch has a geothermal heat pump, which extracts energy embedded in the Earth, allowing for a 25 percent reduction in power consumption from non-renewable resourcesâ&#x20AC;?

Details on page 15

Vchilli event to promote South Asian artists

Sikh man stabbed at Fresno airport

friendly and green facility in the entire Midwest area. Mayor Van Dusen in his short speech inaugurating the facility strongly brought out this fact and lavishly praised the managerial team headed by Bob Yohanna and Jay Lytle saying they had proved that

Formal launching of the new Skokie branch of First Trust and Bank by Skokie Mayor George Van Dusen. (Pics Karen Kring.)

weak economy could not be a deterrent for an enlightened management that has interest of the community at heart. This example needs to be followed by other business establishments here and everywhere, he said. Bob Yohanna, Managing Director and CEO, said that this new eco-friendly branch at the southwest corner of Dempster Street and Crawford Avenue, has been designed with geothermal heating, a living roof and other green design

Jay Lytle addressing the Bank inaugural gathering

features. "The 3,600 square foot branch has a geo-thermal heat pump, which extracts energy embedded in the Earth, allowing for a 25 percent reduction in power consumption from non-renewable resources. It also has an underground detention system that collects storm water run-off and returns it, filtered, to the storm sewer. It meets the requirements of a LEED gold-certification as established by the U.S. Green Building

Council (USGBC) and verified by the Green Building Certification Institute (GBCI). This commitment to the environment is a natural extension of First Bank & Trust's mission to put community first," he said and then introduced the branch manager LuAnn Stempel , David Purtus, Assistant vice president and branch manager of the Skokie Blvd location and Architect Joe Behles. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 14

Dial Gidwany presenting Laxmi & Ganesh to Robert Yohanna

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Quigley meets Indian Ambassador Rao RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service

CHICAGO: U.S. Representative from Illinois Mike Quigley met the newly appointed Ambassador

Americans last week in Washington DC Prominent Indian American community activists from Illinois including Balwinder Singh and Vinesh Virani specially went there

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The importance of India to America's economy and national security cannot be overestimated. Ambassador Rao's expertise and knowledge will no doubt play an important role in further developing U.S.-India relationsâ&#x20AC;? of India to the United States, Nirupama Rao, during a reception hosted by the Indian Embassy, in conjunction with the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian

to attend and cultivate the members of Congressional Caucus for further cementing Indo US ties in various areas. "India is a diverse and complex

(L-R): Chicago Indian-American community members Vinesh Virani and Balvinder Singh, Ambassador Rao and Rep. Quigley

nation and a vital international partner to the United States," said Rep. Quigley. "The importance of

India to America's economy and national security cannot be overestimated. Ambassador Rao's ex-

pertise and knowledge will no doubt play an important role in further developing U.S.-India relations." Rep. Quigley, a member of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans, is currently serving his second term in the House of Representatives, where he sits on the House Committees on the Judiciary and Oversight and Government Reform. Quigley has been a friend of Indian community and is also espousing cause of India at the federal level, according to Vinesh Virani, a prominent Indian community activist. He said that 40 plus members of the Caucus attended and that "it really helped them understand better about Indian needs and conditions," he added.

Indian pharmacists celebrate Diwali & Festival Season

Harish Bhatt, the newly elect President, addressing AIPHA meet India Post News Service

CHICAGO: The Association of Indian Pharmacists in America (AIPHA) Chicago hosted a grand and joyous Diwali and the incoming festival celebration on December 3 at India House, Schaumburg, a north side Chicago suburb. It was attended by over 500 members and guests. Dr. Rupesh Manek, past president of AIPHA welcomed the guests and outlined the role of AIPHA in providing necessary impetus to the South-Asian community. Manek also gave detailed report of AIPHA. Speaking on various activities of AIPHA he said, "AIPHA is heavily involved in community service and members attend various health fairs around the area. Pharmacists offer consultations on not only medicinal usage but also on other health related inquiries at health fairs, their pharmacies and even over the phone for no charge. AIPHA also offers members various networking opportuni-

AIPHA Board (standing) Rasik Joshi, Rajesh Chotalia, Jeevan Vacchani, Harish Bhatt, Ambalal H Patel, Ambalal S Patel, Rupesh Manek (sitting) Jignesh Gandhi Jitesh, Snehal Bhavsar, Kishore Chug, Haresh Khakkar

ties." Dr. Harish Bhatt, the newly elected AIPHA president, presided over the evening reception and gave out an overview of the activities and the near future

from Jan 1st, 2012 is likely to harm independent pharmacists a lot. As per the law, a pharmacy store buying million dollars brand name drugs will lose $250, 00 net. It needs to be compensated in other form for sur-

AIPHA is heavily involved in community service and members attend various health fairs around the area. Pharmacists offer consultations on not only medicinal usage but also on other health related inquiries at health fairs, their pharmacies and even over the phone for no charge

plan of the association. Speaking on diabolic medical situation prevailing in the country he said, that the Illinois State has been facing a budget balancing problem and that the new Public Aid law implementing

vival. The state does not have any money. So the state is cutting into critical services for poor by reducing fees for pharmacists and also reducing the number of drugs covered

for patients, he told this paper Compensating with generics at 6.35- Lipitor, zyprexa and others blockbusters going generic could be of help, he observed He thanked AIPHA members for electing him and said, "There's lot to be done and we need a strong support from AIPHA board and members to assist the public and to aware them about the various health benefit issues." He also commended the efforts of Rajesh Chotalia, vice president AIPHA and newly elected board members. He also thanked Chotalia and other members of AIPHA for urging senator Dick Durbin and Mark Kirk to pass the law against the ESI and Medco Merger bill. The evening had started with lamp lightning ceremony by Harish Bhatt, John Dik and other prominent dignitaries Bhatt got overwhelming majority as the President of AIPHA on November 30. He bagged 70 percent votes in the elections. Rajesh Chotalia was elected vice president.

Community Across America

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December 16, 2011

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Geetha Mandalam celebrates Vibhava Sandhya

Danny Davis with Mr. Chandran Pillai and Mrs. Mariamma Pillai. (Pics Asian Media USA) Asian Media USA

Anil Pillai, Skokie mayor Van Dusan, George Mathew, Commission Member, Skokie and Sivan Mohamma, General Secretary Geetha Mandalam

ers like Past president of Indio American Center Ashraf Hasim, Collen Sen and David Putrus.

duced President Anil Pillai who in his welcome address spoke about the organization's plans and pitched for support from every-

Appreciation awards for community service were presented to Sher M. Rajput, Attorney Steven Crifase, Sashidaran Nair, Dr. Sunitha Nair & Family, Chandran & Mariamma Pillai, Rattan Kumar & Suma Mittal, Dr. Anandam Pillai & Balasiva Panicker, and Jaibu & Alemma Mathew The event started with an invocation prayer song by children of the organization. General Secretary Sivan Mohamma intro-

one. He then introduced board members and past presidents of the organization. Keynote speaker Sashidharan Nair men-

tioned how one can serve the community by different methods of motivating others to help needy people. Congressman Danny Davis, Secretary of State Jesse White, Alderman Joe Moore and Trustee Pramod Shah spoke highly of the organization and expressed their happiness towards the organization during their facilitation speech. Appreciation awards for community service were presented to Sher M. Rajput, Attorney Steven Crifase, Sashidaran Nair, Dr. Sunitha Nair & Family, Chandran & Mariamma Pillai, Rattan Kumar & Suma Mittal, Dr. Anandam Pillai & Balasiva Panicker, and Jaibu & Alemma Mathew. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 16

First green facility by First Bank & Trust formally launched Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 12

In his welcome address, Jay Lytle, Managing Director, said that the bank has notched up tremendous progress in its sixteen years of existence and this is its eighth branch. "The main reason for our

"Owner business and non-profit community organizations have been our top priority in lending and over a period of time this has proved rewarding." He said that the bank is considering one more branch in Skokie and one in Naperville too progress and success is the community backing that it has been receiving. Our mission is to put community first, and provide personalized banking and investment

Robert Yohanna addressing the gathering

services to individuals, ownermanaged businesses and the notfor-profit community. This policy has paid rich dividends and ours is one of the strongest community banks in the country. It is in the green unlike many others which have suffered losses. We want to do one better in the coming years," he said In a talk to this paper, Jay Lytle said that his bank has no bad account and one of the reasons being it has not been involved in real

estate lending. "Owner business and non-profit community organizations have been our top priority in lending and over a period of time this has proved rewarding." He said that the bank is considering one more branch in Skokie and one in Naperville too. Mayor Van Dusen then formally opened the new branch amidst huge applause and wished the management well. "The bank is now open for business and the staff has started taking care of

L to R: Tom Spalding and Herb Spalding of Com-Co Insurance Agency, Inc. open the first business account at the 4007 Dempster location with Branch Manager LuAnn Stempel.

the banking needs of the customers in the same professional way, finding solutions for each of their needs," said LuAnn Stempel, the manager. Tom Spalding and Herb Spalding of Com-Co Insurance Agency, Inc. turned out to be the first ones to open a business account Interestingly, the village Skokie houses a large number of Indian population and it is here that a life size statue of Mahatma Gandhi was installed two years ago. Many

of the Indian community activists serve on the village council. It is expected that the First Bank & Trust coming to Skokie would be welcomed by members of the Indian community. A good number of them were present at the event and one of the oldest clients - Dial Gidwany of Intra World Travel brought a special present: idols of Laxmi (Goddess of Wealth) and that of Lord Ganesh, who according to Indian mythology, wards of all evil.

December 16, 2011

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India Post 15

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Sikh Kirtan and Hindu dance at the Interfaith concert

L to R: Rajwant Singh , Ravi Singh, Inderjit Singh, Ravi Singh, Arvinder Singh, Minoo Nandra, Jaswinder Singh, Amrit Pal Kaur, Preet Amrit Kaur, Guransh Singh, Jasneet Kaur Battu, Manjeet Kaur, Sandeep Kaur, Harjot Singh, Suchinder Kaur Kang, Jagjot Kaur Battu, Dilroop Kaur Sidhu, Sarbjit Singh Sidhu, Hena Kaur Mangat, Dr. Harminder Kaur Mangat, Kuldip Singh Battu, Amneet Kaur Basra, Navjeet Kaur, Bhai Gurdarshan Singh, and Bhai Sucha Singh India Post News Service

Singh in Raag Dhanasari, accompanied by talented Tabla maestro Bhai Sucha Singh, they sang in perfect harmony a hymn composed by ninth Guru Teg Bahadur. " Kahe Re Ban Khojan Jai.' Ravi Singh started the musical presentation with an alaap on Sitar in Raag Dhanasari and Jaswinder Singh gave a fitting vocal response in the same raag and sang at higher notes. Bhai Gurdarshan Singh led the singing with sargam and Dr. Rajwant Singh explained that the hymn is written by the ninth Guru

Swaminathan runs Natannanji School of Dance in Maryland with the objective of teaching and promoting Bharatnatyam, a classical dance form from Southern India. Its origin is traced back through the centuries to the temples of ancient India, where it was performed as a ritualistic form of worship. According to Lakshmi Swaminathan, "This style is intricately bound with Hinduism, in particular with Hindu myths and customs." LaDalle D. Leffall Jr. Senior Professor of Surgery and leading phy-

Hindu dancers entering the stage

Washington, said, "It provided an opportunity for Sikhs to showcase our musical tradition and our rich heritage. We have to be part of these celebrations to make the world a better place for our generations to come" Sarabjit Singh Sidhu, Chairman of Guru Gobind Singh Foundation, said, "Our organization has made this participation a top priority because it gives our community a much needed exposure. The whole event was very thrilling. Ravi Singh, President of a healthcare IT company and a member of the Sikh group, said, "Every time I have visited and performed at the National Cathedral

message of Guru Nanak Dev to the world outside is always a humbling experience." Inderjit Singh, Executive Director of GGSF and a member of the Sikh group, said, "It is important that we reach out and build bridges with the wider community in the area. We are often misunderstood and lay people do not have enough exposure of our tradition. It is our chance to show solidarity in building peaceful and loving society in the nation's capital." Navjeet Kaur said, "It was really uplifting experience to be part of this grand celebration. Events like these provide us an opportunity to show that we are part of

Bhai Gurdarshan Singh led the singing with sargam and Dr. Rajwant Singh explained that the hymn is written by the ninth Guru of the Sikhs who stood for religious freedom in India Guransh Singh, 15, playing tabla, Sucha Singh on the left and Amrit Pal Kaur on right.

The Mormon Choir of Washington, the dancers from the United Hindu and Jain Temples Association, the Howard University Chapel Choir (representing the Protestant faith community), the choir of Temple Sinai representing the Jewish religion. The Washington Revels, a musical group of many ethnic groups in Washington participated in this multilingual and multi faith unique program. The Sikh Kirtni Jatha consisted of 25 men and women who donned spotless white dress with kesri satin palla (scarf) around their necks with Sikh insignia 'Ek Onkar' looked very majestic. In a melodious tune composed by Dr. Rajwant

of the Sikhs who stood for religious freedom in India and was executed in 1675 for his stand. The melody and mood were perfectly blended to leave indelible impression on the audience. The translation of the shabd was made available to the audience in a program booklet distributed by the IFC. Sikh Jatha entered the hall with a banner of Ek Onkar carried by Navjeet Kaur. This is the 24th time that Sikhs participated in this annual program led by Guru Gobind Singh Foundation. Natannanjali Dance Group presented "Ananda Nartana Ganapatim" choreographed by Lakshami Swaminathan.

Dancers from Natananjali Dance Group. Imagery by Bill Sanda

sician in the Washington Medical community and his philanthropist wife, Ruthie, was the honoree at this year's concert for her involvement in DC Prep, Children's Defense Fund, Black Student Fund, National Gallery of Art and her presidential appointment to the board of Peace Corps. "Community is created by diversity and that in diversity is the unity that can change the world," noted Rev. Clark Lobenstine, its Executive Director, in his closing comments at the Concert, "and this Concert is our best way of exemplifying this." Dr. Rajwant Singh, Secretary of Guru Gobind Singh Foundation,

with the GGSF Kirtan group, it is a new experience. Though each religion is performing and presenting their hymns, dances, and songs, it all starts to sound like one uplifting prayer in the Basilica of the National Cathedral, the one who is the Ek Onkar, the one God, the one Supreme Soul." "With all the religions coming and performing together truly brings about the melting pot theory to realization and that there is unity in diversity. I think the interfaith conference and the effort by all the participating religions is bringing about better understanding and harmony amongst all of us. Being a Sikh and carrying the

the social fabric of America". Interfaith Conference of Metropolitan Washington (IFC) brings together eleven historic faith communities to advance justice, build community and nurture understanding in the metropolitan Washington, DC region. IFC's members are the Baha'I, Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, Jain, Jewish, Latter-Day Saints, Protestant, Roman Catholic, Sikh and Zoroastrian faith communities in this region. Guru Gobind Singh Foundation representing the Sikh faith is the member of the IFC since 1988. It is active nationally and locally in different forums on behalf of the Sikhs.

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December 16, 2011

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Vchilli event to promote South Asian artists

Live painting demonstration by Fahim Ali. The painting was auctioned after the event. India Post News Service

quired by the National Museum of Pakistan. He mesmerized the crowds with his live painting to music. It was the first time in Chicago that an event of this magnitude was organized and an artist of this caliber performed live to the sheer delight of those present. He is much at ease with the wash painting technique where he works with liquid oil paints flowing like water and using his fingers to paint. Since 1991 Fahim has shown his works in Singapore, Canada, United Kingdom , Dubai, Qatar, Kenya and Tanzania. Another equally talented artist was Rashmi Sahani. An upcoming artist with a refreshing perspective

The highlight of the evening was the live sculpture performance of Karim whose clean lines and fluid body movements enthralled the crowds. Dignitaries and well known members from the community, art critics, artists and people from overseas made the evening a truly international affair

Vandana Walia (extreme right) with artist Karim and a guest

on inner peace and vitality of life displayed an array of paintings that reflected influences of "Buddha". Born and brought up in India she was always inclined towards literary works of art and her surroundings became her early inspirations. The live painting was auctioned to benefit the Charity - Save A Mother - whose mission is to develop health care solutions for the poor and reduce maternal mortality as a first step. The highlight of the evening was the live sculpture performance of Karim whose clean lines and fluid body movements enthralled the crowds. Dignitaries and well known members from the

community, art critics, artists and people from overseas made the evening a truly international affair. It was an invitation only event and over 300 people were present. The main sponsors India House, All States Transportation and Air India helped in supporting this great initiative. Two amazing artists with two opposing points of view came together for an evening reflecting the theme of the evening Hues of Harmony. The success of this launch goes to Vandana Walia, a Creative Specialist who has made a niche for herself in organizing the most unique, opulent and creative events in Chicago.

Geetha Mandalam celebrates Vibhava Sandhya Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 14

Artist Narayan Kuttappan was given a special award, Ponnada by Congressman Danny Davis. A group dance in typical Kerala tradition displaying God's own country's rich heritage in all its color and flavor by the Mandalam Dance group led by Lakshmi Warrier was a big highlight of the

tertained the crowd with standup comedy. Santhosh and Santhi sang old Bollywood songs setting off nostalgia among the audience and the curtain was drawn by 11pm after vote of thanks by Board member, Satheesan Nair. Geetha Mandalam Executive board consists of Anil K Pillai (President), Dr. Sunitha Nair (Vice President), Sivan Muhamma (Gen-

Renjith Nair, who was the emcee for the evening and who is also a mimicry artist, entertained the audience. Sivan Muhamma entertained the crowd with standup comedy nearly three-hour program. Dinner was followed by variety entertainment programs as soon as guests settled in their seat after dinner. Renjith Nair, who was the emcee for the evening and who is also a mimicry artist, entertained the audience. Sivan Muhamma en-

eral Secretary), Sivaprasad Pillai (Joint Secretary), Aravind Pillai (Treasurer) and Thankamma Appukuttan (Joint Treasurer). Its Board of Directors are: G.K. Pillai, Narayanan Kuttappan, Prasannan Pillai, Sukumari Nair, Vasudevan Pillai, Rajappan Koottanal and

Dr. Sunitha Nair, Jaydev Kutty with Child, Joe Mooree, Sher Rajput, Dr. Anandam Pillai, Sashidharan Nair- Chief Guest, Narayanan Kuttappan, Danny Davis, Chandran Pillai, Mariamma Pillai, Suma Mittel, Rattan Mittal, and Arvind Pillai.

Satheesan Nair Geetha Mandalam is a nonprofit body of Indians here established in 1978. Members of the association meet regularly on the last Saturday of every month for

group prayer, and discussion thereafter. The association celebrates Kerala's grand traditions and festivals. Onam and Vishu are commemorated every year on a grand scale. Besides, Ayyappa

pooja is conducted every Friday, Saturday and Sunday of November, December and January of every year. Ramayana month is celebrated in all fervor by reading the entire Ramayana.

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VHPA governing council reiterates seva recipe India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: The Vishwa Hindu Parishad of America (VHPA) Central & Northern, NJ and Staten Island, NY chapters hosted their 41st annual meeting of the Governing Council - an elected decision making body - meeting from Nov 18-20, in New Brunswick, NJ. Chapter representatives from many US states participated in this meeting. During the three day meeting VHPA president, Jyotish Parekh highlighted the community work carried out by VHPA during the past 40 years. He said, "In this journey VHPA has achieved many milestones, the key ingredient of VHPA Seva recipe is the dedication of its office bearers for all four decades and that is the reason so many of the original volunteers are with the organization even today." Various project leaders presented progress reports on initiatives being carried out at the chapter and national levels. Some of the nationwide initiatives discussed and being pursued in the coming year are: ASHRAYA (Bhutanese Resettlement Project): VHPA with various other organizations is engaged in resettlement of thousands of Bhutanese Refugees, mostly Hindus and Buddhists that

VHPA meeting.

have been coming to the USA since 2008; 60,000 refugees are expected. They are spread across several cities in many US states. SAC (support a child): SAC is almost 25 years old program run by VHPA to provide hope and better future to orphans or abandoned children in cities and towns. A $250 contribution takes care of the total well being of a child, i.e., education, lodging and boarding, healthcare, etc. More than 600 children are supported in 14 states of Bharat. The Governing Council decided to raise the number of children supported by 20% in 2012, bringing it to 1000. HMEC (Hindu Mandir Executives' Conference): This project is

geared towards networking Hindu Mandirs and Institutions to make them respond to the needs of the second generation and to address operational, developmental and

Fremont (San Francisco), CA. CHY (Coalition of Hindu Youth) is a group of youth who are keenly interested in working with Mandirs. They are the future of

One feature that raised hopes for a bright future of VHPA was election of as many as 16 new members, many of them from the younger generation sustenance issues of Hindu Mandirs in USA and Canada. VHPA organized sixth annual conference in 2011 in Columbus, OH. The 2012 HMEC will be held in

the Mandirs. CHY also aims to network Bal Vihars, Youth Camps and Youth Conferences. CHY is a direct outcome of HMEC. HAVAN (Hindu American

Vanaprasthi Network): HAVAN started with an idea to harness the energy of the seniors as well as those who are nearing retirement age. Besides providing answers for the specific needs of this age group, it aims to draw on their strength, experience and wisdom to help our youth, Mandirs and Seva projects. VHPA held two HAVAN conferences in 2011 and many more are planned for 2012. VHPA is planning a national Hindu Youth Conference as well as a Hindu Women's Conference in 2012. The Governing Council also discussed bio-ethical issues, impact of Government of India's proposed Communal and Targeted Violence bill and celebration of 150 year anniversary of Swami Vivekananda in 2013 with a national conference. One feature that raised hopes for a bright future of VHPA was election of as many as 16 new members, many of them from the younger generation. The Governing Council reappointed Dr. Abhaya Asthana (Boston) as the General Secretary for a three year term. The meeting was attended by 57 members from 12 states including FL, TX and CA. Representative Members from nine prominent Hindu organizations attended the meeting as observers.

Sur Sandhya by ASF a big success MADHU PATEL

Dr. Birendra Sinha welcoming and presenting a vote of thanks

CHICAGO: An Illinois based no profit body promoting classical Indian dance in the area, Anila Sinha Foundation (ASF), recently presented a unique concert Sur Sandhya, a tribute to Sarod maestro Ustad Ali Akbar Khan, the icon of Senya-Maihar gharana, at McKannan Auditorium at College of Dupage in Glen Ellyn ASF was established in 1998 in memory of Mrs. Anila Sinha who was a Kathak dancer herself but more than that a pioneer of Indian classical performing arts in

Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri, Sonali Srivastava, Ustad Aashish Khan

US. It has presented a number of stage performances and two International Kathak Festivals in the past decade or so. The mission of the foundation is to preserve, promote and present the performing arts of North India mainly Kathak dance with its associated music and choreography. Its latest Sur Sandhya was a unique presentation combining choreography of Kathak dance and a concert of Sarod, an ancient string instrument by Ustad

Aashish Khan. He was accompanied by internationally known Tabla artist Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri. The program was opened by a dance performance by Ms Kiran Chouhan in tribute to her mother who recently passed away. She stared with an invocation called Ardhanarishwar in praise of Lord Shiva depicting two aspects of the Lord, male and female. This was followed by a traditional Kathak dance in which Ms Chouhan showed spectacular footwork, facial expres-

sion and layakary in Teental. The lehra was provided by Ms Sonali Srivastava accompanied by Sri Raj Deshmukh, a disciple of Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri, on Tabla. The program ended with a thumri written by Smt. Radha Chouhan, Kiran's mother. The poetry was very sensitive and choreography impressive. Kiran presented an exceptional facial expression and body gestures that moved the audience. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 18

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New Trustees at Hindu Temple Sikh Coalition-led group demands TSA audit of Lemont India Post News Service

New Lemong Temple Board India Post News Service

CHICAGO: Annual elections were conducted on December 4 at the Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago (HTGC) to fill four Trustee positions. Two Trustee positions under the Regular Member category were filled by Baddi Raghavendra and Lakshmana Mittur with no contest; they were elected unopposed for a four-year term. In the Patron category two trustee positions were contested by four aspirants. Bhima Reddy and Dr. Bansi Sharma were reelected as trustees for a four-year term.

Later in the day, the HTGC board met and elected Dr. Gopal Srinivasan as President for the year 2012, with Jayadev Mettupalli as Vice President, Tilak Marwaha

President elect Dr. Gopal Srinivasan thanked outgoing president Prasanna Reddy for her services during the Rajatotsavam (25th year celebrations). The day

The HTGC board met and elected Dr. Gopal Srinivasan as President for the year 2012, with Jayadev Mettupalli as Vice President as Secretary, Dr. Viswanatha Reddy as Joint Secretary, Sridhara Tambarahalli as Treasurer and Shashi Kaveti as Joint Treasurer.

concluded with the newly elected team and trustees with families offering prayers and seeking the blessings of Sri Rama.

WASHINGTON, DC: A diverse coalition of 38 civil rights organizations led by the Sikh Coalition is demanding an independent audit of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to determine whether the agency engages in racial profiling. In a letter to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano, the groups expressed concern about recent news reports that TSA officers openly targeted Mexican and Dominican travelers for extra scrutiny at airports in Hawaii and New Jersey. TSA officers at the Honolulu International Airport targeted Mexicans so often that their colleagues called them the

"Mexicutioners." The letter also notes that Sikh travelers are routinely selected for secondary screening at some American airports, even after clearing advanced imaging technology machines without incident. The Sikh Coalition believes that these troubling reports are the tip of the iceberg for TSA profiling. "Based on Sikh experience, we've long suspected that TSA officers are engaged in a pattern of profiling minorities instead of focusing on criminal behavior. Only an independent, publicly-reported audit can reveal the full extent to which TSA officers are violating rights, wasting taxpayer dollars, and undermining national security," it said in a statement.

Ganesha T-shirt designs removed by Chicago company India Post News Service

CHICAGO: A Chicago-based company "Threadless Tees" appears to have bowed to the wishes of many a Hindu patron by taking off Lord Ganesha T-shirt designs earlier displayed on its website. Search for "Ganesha" at

www.threadless.com returned with: "Well darn, there aren't any products that match what you are looking for. Hindus found the following objectionable: "Nerdy Lord Ganesha" (a nerdy take on Ganesha where he holds a tobacco pipe, glass of wine, etc.), Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 19

Sur Sandhya by ASF a big success Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 17

After a short break Ustad Aashish Khan presented Sarod concert accompanied by Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri on Tabla, a very powerful combination. Aashish Khan started the pro-

(L to R) Sri Raj Deshmukh, Gurmeet Marhas, Sonali Srivastava and Kiran Chouhan performing a Kathak sequence

gram with Raag Bageshree, well suited for the time. The composition was melodious and improvisation superb. This was followed by Raag Chandranandini, long time favorite of Maihar Gharana. The audience could and did appreciate the mastery of Aashish Khan over the instrument which is legacy of Senya-Maihar Gharana. The audience was mesmerized by the movements of artist's fingers, up and down the instrument in an effort to produce the right combination. Pandit

Swapan Chaudhuri's tabla accompaniment was marked with precision and extraordinary virtuosity. The final item presented was in Raag Sindh Bhairavi, a unique raag with exceptional effect, which left the audience spell bound. The auditorium was almost full. On behalf of the Anila Sinha Foundation, Dr. B.K.Sinha presented vote of thanks to the audience and all the artists. This program was supported in part by the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.

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ICAA Chicago celebrates Christmas Ball K RAJDA

There was a very tasteful Indian cuisine for the attendees filled with masala chai, fruit juices and Indian desserts. After dinner members of Chicago Filipino American Lions Club under the leadership of Austin Prabhu performed ball room dancing Austin Prabhu of the Catholic Association with Philippine dancers

CHICAGO: India Catholic Association of America, Chicago one of the oldest Indian associations in Chicagoland - celebrated its 2011 Christmas Ball at the India House, Schaumburg last week with great fanfare, gusto and colors. Fr. Berchmans Britto was the celebrant of solemn mass. With humorous homily he gave his Christmas message for peace and love. Rosemary Thalanany, President of ICAA welcomed the houseful gathering. Dr. Peter Noronha compeered the program. Children thrilled to see the arrival of Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus who distributed various gifts as Christmas Presents. Fr. Berchmsans Britto had his

Association president Rosemary Thalanany

Santa Claus with children

stand-up comedy for the audience which filled India House with laughter. Emcee thanked Fr. Britto for offering mass and cracking jokes. There was a very tasteful Indian cuisine for the attendees filled with masala chai, fruit juices and Indian desserts. After dinner members of Chicago Filipino American Lions Club under the leadership of Austin Prabhu performed ball room dancing and entertained the audience. After their performances, all attendees started dancing to the tunes of DJ's music. It was another fun-filled event organized by ICAA, Chicago to bring the Holiday Spirit.

ICAA members at festival season dance

Ganesha T-shirt designs removed by Chicago company

Rotarians unite for winning Nepal project

Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 18

FAIRFIELD, IA: A community of 10,000 people at the base of the Himalayas in Chitwan province in Nepal will now have a well, thanks to a winning grant proposal submitted to the Rotary International Foundation by Andy Bargerstock, director of the MBA program at Maharishi University of Management, and MBA alumnus Naya Raj Baral. The grant of $45,700 will cover the costs of a borehole well, pumps, 400,000-liter reservoir tank, and training on the use and maintenance of the water system for the Jaluke Community in Gaidakot, Navalparasi, Lumbini Zone, Nepal. Dr. Bargerstock is director of the International Service Committee for Fairfield's Rotary Club, and Mr. Baral, the CFO at Maharishi Ayurveda Products International, is a current member of the Fairfield Rotary Club, and former member of a Rotary Club that meets two miles from the site of this project. "During a Nepal trip to visit family and friends in Spring 2011, Naya learned about this project that had been presented by a local engineer to the Nepal Rotary Club," Dr.Bargerstock said. "When he returned to

Ganesha shown as "Ping Pong God", "Ganesha alien" and "Ganeshamadonna" (Ganesha and Mother Mary merged together in one figure). Founded in 2000, "Threadless Tees", whose tagline is "Nude No More", is a community-centered online apparel company of skinnyCorp which also has a store in Chicago and branch office in Boulder (Colo-

Ganesha shown as "Ping Pong God", "Ganesha alien" and "Ganeshamadonna" (Ganesha and Mother Mary merged together in one figure) rado, USA). Also referred as "World's Most Inspiring Online Design Community", it claims over one million members. Jake Nickell is founder and CSO, while Thomas Ryan is CEO. In Hinduism, Lord Ganesha is worshipped as god of wisdom and remover of obstacles and is invoked before the beginning of any major undertaking.

India Post News Service

Rotarians Andy Bargerstock, Doug Flournoy, and Naya Raj Baral

Fairfield, he contacted me. With approval from our local board of directors, we formed a team to develop the application and raise financial support from regional Rotary Clubs. Sixteen regional clubs or members have contributed to raising $16,000 as Fairfield's requirement for co-sponsorship of the grant application." Projects that seek funding in excess of $25,000 from the Rotary Foundation are judged on a competitive basis. On an annual basis, only 20-30 such projects receive this degree of funding. With other matching formulas built into the grant application,

the total project has generated nearly $122,000. Dr. Bargerstock says that Rotary is about relationship building. "This project is a good example of the Rotary Club's focus on relationships since the successful grant application emerged from the collaboration of the clubs in Fairfield and Nepal." He emphasized that Rotarian Doug Flournoy from Indian Hills Community College was key in guiding the grant application process, and that Mr. Baral's relationships with people in Nepal were critical for building credibility.

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Yuva Hindi Sansthan assists launching Hindi courses India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: Yuva Hindi Sansthan, a New Jersey based non-profit organization celebrated its second Annual Day event with great fan fare at the Royal Albert's Palace Hotel in Fords. The event was attended by a number of prominent Indian American business owners and professionals from New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. Dr. Surendra Gambhir, Chairman of the Sansthan, who has recently been awarded by the Ministry of Human Resources, Govt. of India, was felicitated at the event. Presenting Dr. Gambhir a proclamation in his honor adopted by the New Jersey legislature, Assemblyman Upendra Chivukula emphasized the importance of teaching Hindi in US schools and colleges. Chivukua, who attended the event as the chief guest, complimented Dr. Gambhir and his organization for their consistent efforts to improve the language proficiency of students. Chivukula said that to understand any culture better, one needs to learn the language that can best express that culture. He said children born of Indian origin parents usually shy away from their heritage, culture and language. "You cannot change your skin color or your heritage. You can adapt to your new culture, but preserve our heritage. If we are proud of who we are others will also respect us." Paying rich tributes to Dr. Gambhir, the proclamation supported the diverse cultural landscape of New Jersey where all ethnic cultures were prospering. A number of speakers at the event strongly criticized the Government of India for giving prior-

YHS 2nd anniversary lamp

ity to English in its official businesses. They felt that progress of Hindi was hampered by the Indian government's negligence while the United States was supporting Hindi learning by categorizing it as a critical language for commerce and businesses. Dr. Gambhir, former professor of linguistics at University of Pennsylvania and the Founder-Chairman of YHS, criticized a recent memo issued by the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs, in which government officials were asked to freely use English terminologies in official communications. "The Government of India is deliberately suppressing the use of proper Hindi while a vast majority in India speaks the language," he commented. "Hindi represents the identity of all Indians, especially those who live outside of India." Yuva Hindi Sansthan meanwhile, has successfully convinced a number of school districts and educational institutions in New Jersey, Delaware and Pennsylva-

nia for launching Hindi courses in their curricula. Announcing a decision by Bensalem School District to partner with Yuva Hindi Sansthan for launching a Hindi

this effect. The announcement received loud applause from the audience. Ashok Ojha, YHS president informed the audience that YHS held

Paying rich tributes to Dr. Gambhir, the proclamation supported the diverse cultural landscape of New Jersey where all ethnic cultures were prospering course, Yagnesh Choksi, Director of School Board in Bensalem, PA, presented a letter by the superintendent of the school district to

its first mega event - a two-week long Hindi language learning and cultural camp for middle school students in Atlanta, GA in June

2010 where one hundred students learned Hindi and practiced in Indian cultural programs. "We held our second mega event, Startalk Hindi Language & Culture Camp in Delaware in Summer 2011 where 80 middle and high school students learned Hindi and Indian culture in a ten day camp," he said. Encouraged by the various speakers, Priti Pandya-Patel, a US born entrepreneur whose parents came from Gujarat, said she would like her children to learn Hindi. "I have much difficulty speaking Hindi but I am convinced that our younger generation must not be strangers to the national language of India." Prominent among the speakers were Ved Choudhary, President, World Hindi Trust, community activist and businessman Peter Kothari and Sam Khan, a young entrepreneur. Yuva Hindi Sansthan is an educational, cultural and social organization devoted to promoting the educational and practical/functional use of Hindi by providing a platform to those who intend to learn and teach Hindi language and culture to the younger generation. The organization endeavors to promote the usage, teaching, and development of Hindi language in North America through youth-centered workshops, meetings, cultural events, and other educational, academic and community oriented activities.

FIA Schaumburg elects new office bearers HARISH RAO

CHICAGO: Federation of Indian Associations Schaumburg held its second official elections for the Trustee and Executive Board during its annual meeting on December 3, at Community Recreation Center, Schaumburg, a north side suburb of Chicago. The panelists for the election included prominent members including Sunil Shah, Onkar Singh Sangha, Shahid Razvi, Rita Singh and others. Out of the 20 nominations received, Onkar Singh, president of Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago was elected the new FIA Schaumburg President. Rita Singh of Indian American Youth Organization was elected as an Executive Vice President. The other prominent board members who were elected vice presidents are J. B. Singha, Sunny Kular, Mukesh Shah, Monty Saiyed and

The FIA office bearers: Sitting: Rita Singh (Executive Vice President) Onkar Singh Sangha (President Elect) Sunil Shah (President), Shahid Razvi (General Secretary) J. B. Singha (Vice President) Sam Azeem Uddin (Joint Secretary not in photo). Standing: (Vice President) Monty Saiyed, Sunny Kular, Mukesh Shah, Dhitu Bhagwakar, Bharti Shah (Joint Treasure).

Dhitu Bhagwakar Shahid Razvi of Urdu Academy of America was elected as a General Secretary for 3rd term. Sam Azeem Uddin of Urdu Society of

North America is a joint Secretary. The post of Treasurer is still vacant and Bharti Shah of Utsav, Inc. is an elected Joint Treasurer of FIA Schaumburg.

Community/California

December 16, 2011

India Post 21

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Sikh man stabbed at Fresno airport FRESNO, CA: A Sikh man waiting for a plane at Fresno Yosemite International Airport was stabbed in an unprovoked attack on the evening of Sunday, December 4. The victim was treated at the airport and boarded his flight. Police Lt. Tom Rowe tells the Fresno Bee that a 26-year-old man approached the victim and stabbed him the upper torso at about 5:30 p.m. Sunday. No words were exchanged before the attack. Investigators haven't determined if it was a hate crime. Sikhism, a religion separate from Islam, developed about 500 years ago in the Punjab region of northern India. Sikhs in the U.S. have occasionally been the target

of anti-Muslim sentiment because of their turbans and beards. Meanwhile, the Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF) has

ment, a 56-year old Sikh man from India was stabbed near the security area at Fresno Yosemite International Airport while waiting to board his plane. The Sikh traveler

suffered a minor cut to his upper torso, and was treated at the airport prior to resuming his journey back to India.

The assailant, identified as 26-year old Mitchell Dufur, reportedly approached the Sikh traveler and stabbed him with a pocket knife, without provocation or exchanging any words. Dufur is now in custody, and being held under suspicion of felony assault with a deadly weapon, after he initially attempted to flee from the airport before being apprehended by the local authorities. According to Fresno Police officials, they are working to determine why the victim was stabbed, but haven't determined whether the act was in fact a hate crime, as Dufur has refused to talk with the police about the motive for this attack.

Deny visas to India police, says human rights group India Post News Service

SAN FRANCISCO: Indian police seeking entry to the U.S. should be denied visas based on involvement in the practice of torture, said a human rights group, citing its new report claiming torture is all pervasive in the Indian police system. Three top-ranking Punjab Police officers have been invited by the North American Punjabi Association to speak in Los Angeles, Bakersfield, Fresno and Tracy. "Officers in every Indian police station use torture," said Arvin Valmuci, communications coordinator for the California-based Organization for Minorities of India. "The U.S. State Department should deny visitor's visas for IGP Gurpreet Dheo, DIG Parmodh Baan and ADGP S.K. Sharma." Valmuci cited the group's November report, "Demons Within: The Systematic Practice of Torture by Indian Police." The report, he said, concludes: "Torture is so universally accepted and encouraged among the ranks of India's police forces that it is a virtual certainty that anyone who is a police officer in India knows that torture occurs, has definitely been exposed to it, probably has partici-

pated in it and almost certainly has helped cover it up." The OFMI report cites figures from the Asian Center for Human Rights, saying that four people have died or been killed in police custody in India between 2002 and 2009. A large number of these, said the Center, are tortured to death. "India is in a worrying state of denial about torture," concluded the group. In an interview with one Punjab Police officer, two Physicians for Human Rights members were told, "In his police station alone, between 4,000 and 5,000 acts of torture were committed each year from 1985 to 1990. "Indian police officers are greatly rewarded for participating in torture," said Bhajan Singh, a founding director of OFMI. "Mohammad Izhar Alam is a prime example." In October, Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Badal promised former Punjab Police DGP Alam an MLA seat. U.S. State Department memos revealed by Wikileaks exposed Alam for leading a death squad in the 1980s and 90s. Selfstyled as "Alam Sena," the death squad targeted thousands of Punjabis for elimination in "encounter killings." Encounter killings, OFMI ex-

plained, are in-custody murders by Indian police staged as armed encounters. Top-ranking officers like Alam, as well as those invited to speak in CA, order such behav-

The OFMI report cites figures from the Asian Center for Human Rights, saying that four people have died or been killed in police custody in India between 2002 and 2009. A large number of these, said the Center, are tortured to death ior from street officers. A Human Rights Watch report from 2009 quoted one Indian officer who said, "I was told to do an 'encounter' ... I am looking for my target." "Human rights activists who

try to expose Indian police atrocities have themselves disappeared," said Valmuci. "Just look at Jaswant Singh Khalra case. He compiled evidence in 1994 that Punjab Police had murdered up to 25,000 people over 10 years - they were tortured in custody and extra-legally killed. Their bodies were wrongly marked as "unidentified" and then illegally cremated. But when Khalra went public about these crimes, police abducted him in 1995, torturing him and killing him in custody." Five officers were witnessed kidnapping Khalra on September 6, 1995. Others, including one officer who came forward, testified to his murder in custody. After sixteen years on the case, attorney Rajwinder Bains finally achieved a court victory in November 2011 when India's Supreme Court upheld life sentences for all five officers who killed Khalra. Asked why officers like Alam are rewarded, Rajwinder Bains, attorney for the prosecution in Khalra's murder case, said: "People like Alam," he responded, "paved the way for the current rulers by killing any opposition. The police kept the current tyrants in power, so the government must return the favor."

There is precedent as well as reason for forbidding Indian police officers to enter North America. In 2009, Canada denied entry to Ranbir Singh Khattra, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of Punjab Police, saying in a letter signed by Canadian Embassy Vice Counsel Sharon Hogan: "You are at the very least willfully blind to the crime against humanity committed by the Punjab Police in Amritsar district." In 2010, Canada again denied visas to several Indian police officers, as well as members of other Indian security forces like the Intelligence Bureau (IB), because of their knowledge of and probable involvement in severe human rights violations. "On the U.S. Visitor's Visa Application," said Valmuci, "all must answer if they have participated in, ordered or engaged in genocide, torture or extrajudicial killings. Any honest police officer in India could only answer 'yes.' Torture and custodial killings are still universally practiced by Indian police. We urge all Indian Diaspora to take action to prevent Dheo, Baan and Sharma - or any other Indian police officers - from entering the U.S. by calling their respective congressional representatives."

CAIR welcomes probe into denial over mosque India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES, CA: The Greater Los Angeles Area office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-LA) has welcomed a U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) civil rights investigation of a decision last year by the City of Lomita to deny a local mosque's application to rebuild its facility. According to media reports, "Federal investigators are interviewing 13 past and present members of the Planning Commission, City Council and other officials this

week." In March 2010, the Lomita City Council considered the Islamic Center of South Bay's

property, which currently consists of several disjoined small buildings used as prayer space and classrooms for a week-

In denying the request, some of the council members also indicated potential loss of tax revenue if re-zoning to lowdensity residential - a requirement for the mosque to rebuild its facilities - took place application to build a new prayer space and make other substantial improvements to its

end school. The city council denied the mosque's

application, despite a recommended approval by the city's planning commission, public safety and traffic commission and city planning staff. That denial prompted accusations of anti-Muslim bias. In denying the request, some of the council members also indicated potential loss of tax revenue if re-zoning to low-density residential - a requirement for the mosque to rebuild its facilities - took place. Some of the parcels the mosque had purchased were re-zoned for commercial use after 1989. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 22

22 India Post

Community/California

December 16, 2011

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Edison sponsors Asian Business CAIR welcomes probe into denial over mosque Awards dinner Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 21

(Left to right) Dennis Huang, Executive Director of Asian Business Association; Grace Whitcomb, Outreach & Partnership, Diversity Manager, SCE; Richard Tom, Director of Supply Excellence, SCE; Ron Litzinger, President of SCE; Walter R. Rhodes, Vice President of Supply Management, SCE; and Joe Alderete, Supplier Diversity &Management, Senior Manager, SCE. India Post News Service

UNIVERSAL CITY, CA: With Southern California Edison (SCE) support, the 35th annual Asian Business Association awards dinner spotlighted "The Invisible Asians: Asian-Americans and Their Impact in Media and Entertainment." ABA honored the significant, often unheralded contributions Asian-Americans make in entertainment and the media, and how those individuals shape perceptions worldwide. "Southern California Edison is proud to chair and sponsor the Asian Business Association for its commitment to helping diverse Asian-Americans make an impact, not only in business locally but also in media and entertainment globally," said SCE President Ronald Litzinger, the ABA dinner chair. SCE is the first utility to achieve more than $1 billion in diverse

business enterprise spending. Steve Tao, president of The Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment, was the keynote speaker at the Globe Theatre event, Universal Studios Hollywood. Lucy Noland, NBC4 LA anchor, was mistress of ceremonies.

ABA honored the significant, often unheralded contributions Asian-Americans make in entertainment and the media

went to Kollaboration, a nonprofit that promotes Asian Pacific Islander American presence in entertainment and media. The Digital Media Firm of the Year award went to The 1stMovement LLC. Comcast/NBC Universal received a Corporate Leadership award. "We selected these individuals and organizations because of their dedicated efforts in promoting Asian-Americans in media and entertainment," said Alhambra City Councilman Gary Yamauchi, the ABA co-chair. "We're grateful also to our sponsors this year for supporting the important work we're doing in the community." Sponsors included Comcast & NBC4; J.M. Eagle & Plastpro Inc.; Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. Inc.; The Walt Disney Co.; Southern California Gas Co.; U.S. Bank, Verizon and many others.

The mosque, which was established in 1985 prior to the rezoning, had worked diligently with the city's staff on the application and to allay any concerns about the improvements. "From day one, the mosque and its leadership have worked with the city to achieve desperately needed but neighborfriendly improvements to the mosque's facilities," said Ameena Mirza Qazi, CAIR-LA deputy executive director and the attorney for the mosque. "We are grateful that the Department of Justice has opened an investigation into the matter, because this community continues to be deprived of facilities that meet its religious needs." "The mosque community is a

valuable part of the City of Lomita," said the mosque's founding member Dr. Iraj Ershaghi. "We remain hopeful that the city council will reconsider its decision and approve our application, and keep our neighborhoods a welcoming place for everyone." Qazi also pointed to the recent anti-Muslim climate - promoted by a cottage industry of Islamophobes - which has provoked opposition to mosque construction or expansion nationwide. CAIR is America's largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

Readers Write... www.indiapost.com

Secret of Dev Anand's youthfulness

Craig Robinson, NBC Universal executive vice president and chief diversity officer, received a Diversity Advocate award. Shirley Wang, founder and CEO of Plastpro Inc., was the Media Advocate award recipient. The Unity Through Artistry award

Dev Anand with Kamal Dandona and his daughter Sonia Dandona Hirdaramani in New York

met Dev Anand many years ago but we became closer when he was given the Lifetime Achievement Award at one of our Awards ceremonies. If a fountain of youth exists, Dev Anand drank from it. He left behind a legacy of celluloid magic - a style icon in those days - he still looked dapper with his trademark

scarf even when in his eighties. I used to be shocked when we went for walks, how much quicker he walked than me, despite the 25 year age gap. I constantly badgered him to give me the secret to his youthfulness. After dining with him many times, I observed that he used to drink hot water before and after a meal, to which he accredited his good digestion. What I will

remember about him the most is his joie de vivre and his passion for life and films. He was undeterred by his age and continued to work for his own satisfaction and nobody else's. Kamal Dandona, Chairman, Soch Global Inc Bollywood Group of Companies New York

Disclaimer :- India Post does not endorse opinions expressed in the letters.

Datebook

December 16, 2011

India Post

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NEW YORK

ILLINOIS

Upcoming

Fri Dec 16 • Diamond Jewelery Exhibition Venue: New York Hilton, 1335 Avenue Of The Americas, New York, NY 10019 Time: 11 am Contact: 415-424-8137

Sat Dec 17 • Meetpacking Districts Hottest Lounge with your Favorite Bollywood Music Venue: Honey Lounge, 243 West 14th St., NY Time: 10pm Contact: 914-433-4118

Mon Dec 19 • Mind & Meditation Venue: Art of Living Center 1251 N Plum Grove Rd Suite#110, Schaumburg, IL Time: 7:15pm Contact: 630-930-9145

Sat Dec 31

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

Upcoming

Venue: Mother of God Chadean Church, 25585, Berg Road, Southfield, MI 60506 Time: 8pm Contact: 586-872-0770

Wed March 7

• Bollywood Saturday@Honey Lounge

• Loves Got a hold on me Venue: Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Boulevard, Park Forest, IL Time: 7pm Contact: 312-572-9373

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Upcoming

Sat Dec 31

Fri Dec 16

Thurs Dec 15

• Rasoi III Presents New Year Eve

• Fusion Beatz Dinner & Dance Gala

• A Chanticleer Christmas

Venue: Rasoi-III, Restaurant & Banquet, 620, Georges Road, MonMouth Juction, South Brunswick, New Jersey Time: 7:30 pm Contact: 732-501-4201

Venue: Bombay garden Restaurant, 5995 Mowry Ave Newark, CA Time: 7pm Contact: 650-918-7211

• New Year Eve Party

Sat Dec 24 Venue: Honey Lounge, 243 West 14th St., NY Time: 10pm Contact: 914-433-4118

NEW JERSEY

Sun Dec 18

Sat Dec 17

• Humari Manjil Kya Hai (Goal of Life)

• Ayyappa Lakshaarchana

Venue: Knights of Columbus, 116 Grand St., Iselin New Jersey Time: 10am Contact: 732-207-7592

Venue: Llvermore Shiva Vishnu Temple, 1232 Arrowhead Ave, Livermore, CA Time: 4:30pm Contact: 408-705-8172

WASHINGTON DC

Upcoming Sat Dec 31 • India Samaj Presents Welcome 2012 & Good bye 2011 Venue: Paradise Indian Cuisine, 1660 Whitehead Court, Gwynn Oak, Washington, DC Time: 7:30pm Contact: 410-935-4338

Sat Dec 17

Sun Dec 25 • Ayyappa Irumudi Puja Venue: HCCC, 1232 Arrowhead Ave, Livermore, CA 94551 Time: 9am Contact: 925-321-0996

Sat April 21 • Yamandu Costa, Classical Guitarist Venue: 8000 York Road, Towson MD, Baltimore, WDC Time: 8pm Contact: 443-296-2247

Sat Dec 17 • Holiday Concert with the Gerry Winn Singers Venue: The Fremont Main Library, Fukaya Room, CA Time: 2pm Contact: 510-745-1401

Fri Dec 23 • Art of Living Course Venue: Art of Living Center Los Angeles, 948 W. Adams Blvd. LA Time: 7pm Contact: 310-820-9429

Fri Dec 30 • Art of Living Course in LA

Thurs Dec 29 • Family Fun Activity: Dance Venue: Ground Floor, South Court 200 Larkin St., San Francisco, CA Time: 1:00pm Contact: 415-581-3500

Venue: Art of Living Center Los Angeles, 948 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles, CA Time: 10pm Contact: 310-820-9429

Sat Jan 14 • I Just Wanna Dance 2012

• Kirtilals Venue: Courtyard Marriott, 2001 Hospitality Court, Morrisville, Washington, DC Time: 11am Contact: 919-467-9444

Venue: Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA Time: 8pm Contact: 323-850-2000

Sat Dec 31 • Yuva Bharti Membership 2011 Venue: Yuva Bharati 870, Ames Avenue, Palo Alto, CA Time: 12am Contact: 650-565-8859

Venue: Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 1935 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach, CA Time: 6pm Contact: 310-937-6607

Sat Jan 28 • Garba with Attitude

Sat Dec 31 • Friend of Abhinaya Membership Venue: Abhinaya Dance Company of San Jose, 52 Harold Avenue, San Jose Time: 12am

Venue: Segerstrom Center of the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, 92626 Time: 1pm Contact: http://www.garbawithattitude.com/

India Post

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December 16, 2011

hekhar Kapur is a well-known film maker today, but he was first intro duced to film industry by none other than his uncle, late legendary actor Dev Anand. Now, the acclaimed Bollywood filmmaker recalls the moments spent with Dev Anand and actress Zeenat Aman on the sets of his debut movie Ishq Ishq Ishq in 1974. On his blog titled "My uncle Dev Anand, the man no one knew…", Shekhar Kapur remembers several interesting anecdotes and incidents happened on the sets of film Ishq Ishq Ishq, which was directed and produced by Dev Anand. He writes, "Ishq Ishq Ishq was my break into movies. Tiny role, but hey, I got to romance Zeenat Aman." Shekhar Kapur continues, "I have many stories of those two months that I will have the courage to tell one day. Nadira, Premnath, Zeenat, Shabana, Kabir Bedi, 12 beautiful models. And of course my own unforgettable adventures. But the one I want to tell today, is the story I will always remember my dear Uncle Dev for." He talks about his uncle's disregard for money. He states, "Dev Anand had put all his own money, almost everything he owned into Ishq Ishq Ishq. Money had no value to him, except to make films. On this evening he was talking calls from the press and the distributors. As always they started with excited congratulations and jubilations. His face sparked with excitement and joy." The filmmaker adds, "But over the next two hours, the tone changed. I could not hear what was being said, but I saw it on his face. His voice going softer. The spark that was Dev Anand dimming. In a couple of hours and a hundred calls later the reality overcame the dream. The film was a disaster on the box office." After this phone chat, Dev Anand,

who looked sad, went into the bedroom of the hotel suite. Shekhar Kapoor further writes, "After ten minutes Dev Anand emerged. His eyes were vibrant. His face

‘His voice going softer. The spark that was Dev Anand dimming. In a couple of hours and a hundred calls later the reality overcame the dream. The film was a disaster on the box office’

Shekhar Kapur

excited. He was unable to sit down for his excitement. Looked me in the eyes. Shekharonios (that's what he called me), I just thought of a great plot for my next film!!"

December 16, 2011

India Post

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Bollywood bids farewell to Dev Anand MUMBAI: Bollywood joined together to mourn the death of Dev Anand. Here is what some of the prominent Bollywood actors had to say about the legend: Amitabh Bachchan Had just met Dev Saheb at his premiere recently .. he was weak but full of spirit ..the news papers confirming his passing away..sad. As tv channels play back his glorious moments ..his songs and the music that identified Dev Anand, you realize what an ear he had !! There was never a worry in his mind ever. The only time I saw him break down was at funeral pyre of his elder brother Chetan Anand ! Abhishek Bachchan Shocked to read of the passing of Dev Saab. Such a great man and actor. A symbol of positivity. Never believed I would ever wake up to this news. Very sad! He wasn't 88. He'd turned 22 for the 4th time. Shahrukh Khan Dev sahib's sad demise makes me feel that the film industry is incomplete & has lost its magical energy. May Allah bless his soul.

bend son. Shake my hand... you're a gentleman just like me!" I was all of eight, but I can never erase the dynamism of Dev Anand. Legends don't die... they just exit the present

Indian cinema has lost one of its biggest stars. Dev Sahab was a force of creative energy

Madhuri Dixit Sad to hear about Dev Anand's demise. Another icon leaves the stage. My condolences to his family. We will miss him. Mahesh Bhatt "Dev Anand is dead". As the new dawn breaks over Mumbai I salute the memory of this star who has left left us with the glow of his smile. Shilpa Shetty RIP Dev saab, still remember my

1st meetin with him,so kind,full of life nd positive.A legend who always thot ahead of his time. Will miss you. Karan Johar My father had worked with Dev Saab for over 10 years, so I grew up hearing about the legendary actor. When I first met him as a child, my father asked me to touch his feet. I still remember Dev Saab looked at me and said, "Never

leaving behind a past that the future can embibe!! Aamir Khan Indian cinema has lost one of its biggest stars. Dev Sahab was a force of creative energy. A man of immense charisma and charm. He was an icon for many generations. His passing away is a sad loss to all lovers of Indian cinema. My heartfelt condolences to all in the family. Sonam Kapoor He was the hero of my fav film Guide. And his songs were some-

thing that dad and me bonded over while watching. He was my father's favorite actor. Shabana Azmi Dev Saheb robustly lived life on his own terms. He will be missed by millions but will live on thru his movies.I salute his spirit.

Dev Anand was keen to make H.R.H.K.-2

TARAN ADARSH

ev Anand, the most charismatic and lively star I knew, is no longer amidst us, but he leaves behind a body of work that's hard to erase from our memory. I have had the privilege of interacting with Dev-saab on a couple of occasions. His zest for life was unparalleled, his passion for cinema was unmatched, his mind would be constantly thinking of newer stories that he'd like to tell the world. My last interaction with the legend was during the release of his film Chargesheet. In mid-September, I received a call from Dev-saab, who wanted to chat with me about his new film and his plans for the

future. This was one opportunity I didn't want to miss. We fixed a date and time. Unfortunately, the shoot had to be called off since he wasn't feeling too well on that particular day. But the evergreen star

to Dev-saab that evening. Dev-saab had plans for the future. He wanted to make an "extension" of his cult classic Hare Rama Hare Krishna. But he denied categorically that he was planning a remake. “Can you remake Gone With The Wind? Can you make West Side Story again? Because if you do make a remake, you make it with the conviction that you're making a hit, but what's the guarantee ki us waqt chali thhee, to aaj bhi chalegi?” “You're admitting to yourself and to the world that you've no other idea but to make a remake. Accept the defeat that you're money conscious and not theme conscious," he said. While on Hare Rama Hare Krishna, Dev-saab shared an interesting anecdote, which not many are aware of. "Dada Burman [S.D. Burman] was not just a mu-

'I was disappointed then, but I saw his son [R.D. Burman] sitting next to him. I told him, 'Dada, if you have even a bit of hesitation, please allow me to take Pancham [R.D. Burman] for the film’ gave another appointment and lived up to it. He seemed weak as he walked out of his car, but the enthusiasm was captivating. I haven't seen my television crew respond to any actor the way they responded

sic director, but was almost like a pillar of Navketan. Every time I decided to make a film, I'd go to Dada Burman. 'Dada, this is my story idea. Do you like it?' 'Haan, definitely banao', 'Bilkul na banao',

he'd react instantly. When I told him about Hare Rama Hare Krishna, he said, 'Dev, yeh bhaibehn ka ajeeb angle hain, hippies ka. Kyun banate ho? 'I was disappointed then, but I saw his son [R.D. Burman] sitting next to him.

I told him, 'Dada, if you have even a bit of hesitation, please allow me to take Pancham [R.D. Burman] for the film. The subject is truly interesting and I want to make it. That's how Pancham stepped into the picture," Dev-saab reminisced.

India Post

December 16, 2011 www.indiapost.com

'I only play lead roles'

MUMBAI: Dev Anand wasn't a star. He was a philosophy. The 88-year-old actor, who died of cardiac arrest on December 4, symbolised six decades of Hindi cinema and

a spirit that insisted that the show must go on. No matter that the films ceased to seduce or that viewers stopped showing up decades ago. Dev Anand continued to create and despite the mostly substandard quality of his output, he never lost his icon status or the affection of his audience and colleagues. Did you know that: Dev Anand's first acting job was at the Prabhat Film Company, where he was paid 400 rupees per month (less than $8 at today's exchange rate), of which 35 rupees were deducted as income tax. In 2007, the director Farah Khan shot an outsized dance number for the title song of her film Om Shanti Om. The film was set

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against the back drop of Bollywood and every star of every generation worth his or her name - from Salman Khan to Dharmendra to Rekha - agreed to appear in the song. But when Farah called Dev Anand, he refused. He said: "I only play leading men." Dev Anand: Tribute in pictures Dev Anand and his brother Vijay Anand spent a sleepless night after the premiere of Guide in 1965. "Nobody called us," he said in an interview. "Goldie and I kept discussing it. I thought people have not understood the story. But eventually it became a cult film," Dev Anand said. Dev Anand and an equally legendary Bollywood filmmaker, Guru Dutt, first met at the Prabhat Film Company in 1946. After they exchanged polite hellos, Dev Anand noticed that Guru Dutt was staring at his shirt. It turned out that the washerman had mixed up their shirts and Dev Anand was wearing Guru Dutt's shirt. Dev Anand said:

"We had a hearty laugh and embraced each other. We were to be friends for all times." In an interview with CNN in the mid-1990s, Dev Anand was asked how he felt about constantly being compared to Gregory Peck. He said: "Gregory Peck was Gregory Peck. At this stage, I would rather be Dev Anand." The filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, Dev Anand's nephew, recalls being with his uncle when Ishq Ishq Ishq released in 1974. Over the evening, phone calls from the news media and distributors kept coming. Slowly the jubilation turned somber as it became evident that the film, into which Dev Anand had poured a lot of money, was a flop. Dev Anand excused himself from the room and stayed away for ten minutes. But then, Shekhar said, he returned and exclaimed: "Shekharonios, I just thought of a great plot for my next film." When the love story between Dev Anand and the actress widely known as Suraiya was at its peak, Suraiya's grandmother started monitoring their movements to ensure that the Hindu hero didn't get too close to her Muslim granddaughter. A scene in Afsar (1950) required him to kiss her on the eyes but grandmother, who was on the set, wouldn't allow it. In his autobiography, Romancing With Life, Dev Anand writes that she stood on the spot where the scene was to be enacted and wouldn't budge. Ultimately a member of the crew whisked away the grandmother on a pretext and they quickly shot the scene. The actor Anupam Kher once asked Dev Anand why he spoke so fast. Dev Anand replied: "Life is too short, Anupam. I don't have time to speak slowly."

December 16, 2011

India Post

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NY fashionistas launch E-rental site for South Asian wear Sign up for a free membership account on the website, select the outfit and accessories. The outfit will be shipped to your doorstep

India Post News Service

ashion-forward party goers who hate repeating outfits at special occasions, listen up! Devi's Closet, a brand new fashion portal where women and men can rent one-of-a-kind, South Asian designer outfits at a fraction of the retail cost, has officially opened its closet doors for business. Located at www.deviscloset.com,

the e-rental site houses the latest in designer, brand name South Asian fashion, jewelry, and accessories perfect for weddings, religious events, parties, and practically any event where you don't want to make the faux pas of repeating an outfit

your friends have already seen. Co-created by long-time friends and New York fashionistas Meera Patel, Sheena Patel and Amy Heller, Devi's Closet showcases the work of top notch South Asian designers such as Payal Singhal, Amrita Singh, Anita Dongre, Gopi Vaid, Isharya, and Medhavini Agarwal, just to name a few. Here's how it works: Sign up for a free membership account on the website, select the outfit and accessories of your choice, enter the date of your next event, your size, and your zip code. The outfit will be shipped to your doorstep with a pre-paid, return envelope to send it back. Once received, the outfit will be dry-cleaned and ready to be shipped out to the next customer.

Don 2 trailer featured on IMDB.com India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The trailer for Shah Rukh Khan's upcoming action blockbuster DON 2 has premiered prominently on Nov 30 at the top of the front page of IMDB.com, the industry's leading film database site used by tens of millions of movie fans worldwide. Rarely - if ever - does a Bollywood film receive such a high-profile position. Starring Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra, DON 2 attacks theaters worldwide on December 23. Khan returns to the world of international espionage by reteaming with director Farhan Akhtar for the action thriller in both 2D and 3D versions. Shot in Germany, Malaysia, Switzerland, and India, the highly anticipated sequel also features Boman Irani, Lara Dutta, and Om Puri with new music from Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy. Having conquered the Asian underworld, Don (Shah Rukh Khan) now has his sights set on European domination. In his way are the bosses of the existing European underworld and all law enforcement agencies. The action shifts from Kuala Lumpur to Berlin as Don must avoid assassination or arrest, whichever comes first, in order for his plan to succeed.

India Post

December 16, 2011 www.indiapost.com

Radhika's arangetram shows creativity has won several awards. In her academics, she maintains a straight-A average in all honors classes, and is also a member of her school's tennis team. The young danseuse commenced her performance with Nachiyar Kavithuvam in Raagam Malaya Marutham and this invocatory item began with prostrations to Mother Earth. She continued Alarippu in Misram and Alarippu literally means 'flowering'. The dancer moved on to Jathiswaram, a more complex nritta item. Thereafter, she performed the varnam, the most enthralling, interesting and challenging item in a Bharathanatyam recital. She also did particularly well in Kalinga Narthanam a beautiful composition interspersed with powerful rhythmic syllables and poetic lyrics. The dancer also excelled in Kavadi Chindu - a lyrical and musical

work of the 19th century by poet Annamalai Reddiar. The Thillana piece by Lalgudi Jayaraman was the brisk conclusion to the

Guru Thejaswini Raj, founder artistic director of Shivajyothi Dance Academy is an accomplished professional dance teacher with over 30 years of teaching experience

India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Radhika Viswanathan, a student of Sivajyothi Dance Academy of Guru Thejaswini Raj of Staten Island, presented a Bharatanatya Arangetram (debut performance) at Main auditorium of Flushing temple in Queens, New York last week. The young artist showed exemplary footwork and her expressive eyes and agile movements on the stage invited loud cheers from the discerning audience. A sophomore at Great Neck South High School, Viswanathan has been learning Bharatanatyam from Thejaswini Raj since the age of six. As a student, she has participated in numerous programs and competitions in the tri-state area. An all-round achiever, Viswanathan is also learning Carnatic music from Guru Saavitri Ramanand since the age of five and

India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Eros International announced that Ra.One, the recent Shah Rukh Khan hit, will be available on Bollywood Hits On Demand prior to its DVD release. Bollywood Hits on Demand, the subscription video on demand service featuring Bollywood blockbuster movies and music, is available to Comcast, Cablevision, Cox, Time Warner and RCN cable customers in select areas in the US market. Ra. One was released theatrically on Oct 26, and triumphed with astounding box office results as one of the most successful Diwali openings in Indian cinema, grossing over $35 million worldwide. The movie will be available on Bollywood Hits On Demand from Dec 2-

Bharatnatyam recital. The special feature of this thillana is a Laya-Nrithya exchange between the percussionist and the dancer. Ably supporting Viswanathan's performance were singer Saavitri Ramanand, wellknown Carnatic classical vocalist of India; A.R Balaskandan on the mridangam; Arun Ramamurthy on the violin; and Kalyan Raman, also known as Flute Raman, one of the leading Flautists in the Carnatic style of Music.

Guru Thejaswini Raj, founder artistic director of Shivajyothi Dance Academy is an accomplished professional dance teacher with over 30 years of teaching experience. She is known for her intricate and exquisite choreography. Smt. Thejaswini mastered the Kaattu Mannar Koyil Muthukumaran Pillai (one of the founding teachers of Kalakshetra) style of Bharatanatyam under the guidance of her father, the late Guru S.V. Srinivasan, who is the direct disciple of Kaattu Mannar Koyil. Her students have performed at many venues in India, Europe and America.

Ra.One available on demand

Jan 5, 2012. "Ra. One had a record opening in the

US, beating those of recent releases, and we're thrilled to be able to offer this super

blockbuster hit to Comcast, Cox, Time Warner, RCN and Cablevision cable platforms prior to its DVD release. We remain committed to offering the best of Bollywood movies and music to our on demand customers," said Ken Naz, President, Eros International, USA. Ra.One is a sci-fi action film filled with stunning visual effects directed by Anubhav Sinha and starring Shahrukh Khan, Arjun Rampal and Kareena Kapoor. The film also features a widely acclaimed soundtrack produced by Vishal & Shekhar, featuring Grammy award nominee Akon.

29 India

December 16, 2011

ing a national park as well as a protected tiger reserve. Periyar (also known as Thekkady) is a park where one can witness playful elephants, whose population is currently around 800. Elephants in Periyar make excellent wildlife watching. The population of tigers is also increasing appreciably. The terrain ranges from hilly to flat grassland areas at the edges of the lakes. The vegetation is of moist deciduous type. Elephant in Periyar remain the key attraction. Best time to visit: The temperature during summers (April-June) ranges from 21°C to 24°C. During the monsoon (JulyAugust), it ranges from 19°C to 21°C. Winter season lasts from October to March and is cool and pleasant.

Elephants in Periyar make excellent wildlife watching. The population of tigers is also increasing appreciably. The terrain ranges from hilly to flat grassland areas at the edges of the lakes

ituated within the confines of the Western Ghats in the southern Indian state of Kerala, Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve is one of the most captivating wildlife parks in the world. Elephants in Periyar are a major attraction. In 1895, the British undertook water resource management plans for the area and started work on a dam and an artificial lake under the auspices of Col. J. Pennycuick. The picturesque lake in the heart of the sanctuary was originally 26 sq km but now spans an area of 55 sq km. This perennial source of water, which initially led to the submersion of large tracts of forestland, slowly attracted wild animals. It eventually resulted in the adjoining forests being granted protection by the Maharaja of Travancore. Post-1975 Periyar finds itself in the enviable position of be-

Cont’d on page 30

Travel & Hospitality Post

30 India Post

December 16, 2011

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Rann Utsav and Kite Festival in Gujarat FRANK FERNANDES India Post News Service

MUMBAI: Gujarat Tourism organized a Road Show in Mumbai at Hotel Trident in Mumbai recently showcasing the exotic month long Rann Utsav Festival in Kutch, a province of Gujarat, starting from December 9 to January 15, 2012. Vipul Mittra, Principal Secretary, Tourism and Sanjay Kaul, IAS, Commissioner & MD, Gujarat Tourism were present to interact with the travel and tourism stakeholders and they announced an array of events besides Rann Utsav. The Kutch region in Gujarat abounds with splendid beaches, fascinating wildlife and beautiful palaces and monuments. During winter nights, a month long extravaganza brimming with hospitality and traditional flavor of the area is hosted named the Rann Utsav. Mittra said that Kutch is one of the most ecologically and ethnically diverse districts of Gujarat and is rightly described as a celebratory land of art, crafts, mu-

Sanjay Kaul and Vipul Mittra of Gujarat Tourism Board addressing Tourism meet in Mumbai

Artists presenting a show

sic, dance and people. The Utsav takes one around the natural landscape while intro-

of the Kutchi people with an array of folk music and dance performances organized in the shim-

The Kutch region in Gujarat abounds with splendid beaches, fascinating wildlife and beautiful palaces and monuments ducing the visitor to the indigenous cultural and ethnical flavor

mering moonlight, he added. TCGL organizes The Rann Utsav every

year and apart from accommodation in tents - AC & Non AC at Dhorodo near white Rann (white desert), it also has various side activities for tourists like Craft Bazaar (live demonstration, production & sale of Kutchi handicrafts) Food stalls (Kutchi/Kathiawari cuisine), Theme Pavilion and virtual tour of Kutch Cultural programs. On every Saturday and Sunday in the tent city are organized Desert Car Rally, Camel ride, Camel and Horse Derby, Sand

Sculpture, Live telecast of Flamingo and various contests for tourists of all age groups. Besides Rann Utsav, Mittra and Sanjya Kaul also detailed other tourist attractions like Para Gliding Festival at Saputra, a hill region in Dang forest from December 25 to December 31, International Kite Festival from January 10 to January 15, 2012 and the Global Bird Watcher's Conference January 19 to 22, 2012 in Ahmedabad.

Periyar National Park: A veritable paradise of elephants Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 29

Tourist attractions Periyar National Park Kerala is a veritable paradise of elephants. Herds of playful wild elephants have made Periyar Lake their favorite haunt for frolicking in the water. Scores of elephants in Periyar can be witnessed bathing and swimming here. The Indian female elephants in Periyar do not

Amidst the rocky hinges along the lake, monitor lizards may be spotted. Trekkers have also sighted pythons, king cobras and flying lizards. Some 260 species of birds are found at Periyar

posses tusks like their African relatives. They are also not as swarthy as their African counterparts. Other inhabitants of Periyar include the leopard, wild dog, barking deer, mouse deer, Nilgiri langur (a primate), bonnet macaque, sambhar, porcupines, squirrels, gaur (Indian bison), wild boar and sloth bear. There are approximately 40 tigers in the area as per

the latest reports. The tigers, along with the Nilgiri tahrs (a kind of a wild goat), are elusive creatures. However, an early morning visit, with luck on your side, could yield results. Amidst the rocky hinges along the lake, monitor lizards may be spotted. Trekkers have also sighted pythons, king cobras and flying lizards. Some 260 species of birds are found at Periyar. These include darters, cormorants, ibises, gray herons, mynas, flycatchers, orioles, wood pigeons, kingfishers, kites, ospreys, thrushes, and an appreciable number of blue-winged parakeets. The months of March and April constitute the driest part of the year, because of which the animals spend a lot of time near

the lake. Even the tiger may be spotted approaching the waters. Animals may be seen from motorboats on the lake or from watchtowers. A special permission is required to travel by boat to the source of the artificial lake, the River Periyar. This area is generally not open for tourists, but is the favorite haunt of the sloth bear. There is a good chance of spotting an occasional tiger in this relatively peaceful corner of the forest. One can also form a group and go on a walking tour with locally available guides. Places around: There are some tribal villages around Periyar, which are worth a visit. The tribal people are expert fishermen and farmers. Some are still engaged in the traditional practice of collecting honey of dan-

gerous hill bees. They have built interesting tree dwellings. These dwellings do not signify a 'perched' existence. Quite the contrary, they are comfortable watchtowers for taking note of any wild pig or elephant in Periyar that might ruin the cultivated fields. Nearby Kottayam (117 km) and the temple town of Madurai (140) km) should not be missed. How to reach: The park is well connected by bus service from the state capital of Thiruvananthapuram (271 km), as well as the cities of Cochin (200 km), Kottayam (117 km) and Madurai (140 km). The nearest major rail junction is Kottayam. The nearest national airports are Cochin (200 km) and Madurai (140 km).

December 16, 2011

Travel & Hospitality Post

India Post 31

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Govt to help filmmakers to promote tourism NEW DELHI: With the aim of promoting Indian tourist destinations, the government has decided to encourage international film directors by offering incentives to foreign and Indian filmmakers to undertake shooting in various exotic locations in the country. "We are preparing a strategy to promote several destinations by involving prominent filmmakers," said Tourism Minister Subodh Kant Sahai. Streamlining of visa procedures, speedy customs clearance for import of filming equipment, ensuring easy accessibility to locations and eliminating obstacles and offering financial incentives to producers are some of the proposals being finalized by the ministry to attract international filmmakers. The ministry also proposes to ensure a single window clearance for licenses and no-objection certificates for film makers for shooting at locations including security arrangements. "Cinema plays an important role in promoting tourism worldwide as India is among those countries which offer a variety of products for filmmaking as well as promoting tourism globally," Sahai said. Sahai had recently held a meeting with leading film directors at International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. During the meet-

ing, he proposed a strategy of using the medium of cinema to enhance awareness, create interest among the people to promote the tourist destinations and tourism. Acknowledging the role of cinema in promoting tourist destinations, Sahai said the most recent

Quoting a WTO forecast, Sahai said while travel to South East Asia is likely to grow significantly in near future, India at present is not being promoted enough to increase its share of the travel market example is the sudden desire among Indian travelers to travel to Spain, after seeing the film "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara" starring Hrithik Roshan. "We can replicate this in India by focusing tourism among international film directors to promote India as a preferred choice of des-

tination for filming and requested the participants' guidance in order to achieve this objective," he has said at the IFFI meet. Sahai said India has a lot of natural and perfect filming locations across the country and the Ministry of Tourism will spare no efforts in promoting these locations in order to establish India as the most preferred destination for filming which will promote tourism in the country and generate employment. Quoting a WTO forecast, Sahai said while travel to South East Asia is likely to grow significantly in near future, India at present is not being promoted enough to increase its share of the travel market. The meeting during IFFI in Goa was attended by senior officials of the Tourism Ministry, prominent directors, producers and personalities from national and international cinema including Vishal Bharadwaj, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Dibaker Banerjee, Zoya Akhtar, Raj Kumar Hirani, Anurag Kashyap and Farah Khan among others. During the meeting, the challenges and problems faced by the filmmakers and issues related to financial compensation, logistic support, facilitation, VAT refund and tax credits were discussed. -PTI

Record number of tourists visited Kashmir SRINAGAR: The number of tourists visiting Kashmir Valley so far this year has surpassed the nearly seven lakh mark set before the eruption of militancy in the north Indian state Jammu & Kashmir in 1990. "In the history of Kashmir, we have not witnessed so many tourists. Even during the pre-militancy years we would receive a maximum of seven lakh tourists. This year we have received a record number of tourists," State Tourism Minister Nawang Rigzin Jora said at a function to celebrate the birth anniversary of National Conference (NC) founder Shiekh Mohammad Abdullah here. Although Jora did not reveal the exact number of the tourists, according to officials the number had

crossed a million. "Tourism is the backbone of our economy. We aim to make this state a prominent tourist destination as it was before the militancy

era," the minister said. The tourism industry in the state has suffered a huge setback after eruption of militancy in the state in 1990s. -PTI

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December 16, 2011

reity Zinta, busy with her maiden production venture Ishkq In Paris, has signed award-winning French actress Isabelle Adjani to play the central role in the film. Isabelle Adjani was named 'The most beautiful woman in film' by Time magazine, this year. Preity and director Prem Raj sent Isabelle the script a few months ago and within a few days they got a reply from her saying she loved the script and would meet them in Paris to discuss the details. Isabelle plays the narrator in the film, who introduces the characters and the city of Paris. Ishkq In Paris is a passionate love story set against the backdrop of the Parisian fashion world. Isabelle has already started learning Hindi while Preity is learning French as the film will have a mix of both Hindi and French. Isabelle is working on her accent and the finer nuances of the language as she starts shooting for the film. Preity is over the moon about signing Isabelle as it is like a dream come true for her.

Saada Haq: Rockstar

Tum Ho: Rockstar

Hawaa Hawaa: Rockstar

Bhare Naina: Ra.One

Raftaarein: Ra.One

Criminal : Ra.One

Chammak Challo: Ra.One

Madhushala: Damadamm

Habibi Habibi: Azaan

Khuda Ke Liye: Azaan

Isabelle is working on her accent and the finer nuances of the language as she starts shooting for the film

Indian batsman Virat Kohli (18), was the highest new entry in the 2011 list. Other big debutants included Abhishek Bachchan (17), Prateik (20), Ajay Devgn (29) and Farhan Akhtar (34)

rithik Roshan has been adjudged as 'The Sexiest Asian Man' of 2012 by the Eastern Eye Weekly. According to a survey conducted by the Weekly, Hrithik beat his contemporaries by the biggest ever margin in the history of the men's list. Hrithik, who ranked third last year on the poll, got votes from all over the world from fans of different ages and cultures via social networking sites like Twitter, Facebook and others. Last year's winner 'Rockstar' Ranbir Kapoor finished at sixth place. While Shahid Kapoor occupied the second place, Bollywood's 'Badshah' Shah Rukh Khan came in third and Salman Khan in the fourth position. The highest placed Pakistani was once again Ali Zafar (5), the highest placed British star was Jay Sean (9) and the highest placed sportsman was World Boxing champion Amir Khan (10). Indian batsman Virat Kohli (18), was the highest new entry in the 2011 list. Other big debutants included Abhishek Bachchan (17), Prateik (20), Ajay Devgn (29) and Farhan Akhtar (34). Other notable names in the list are John Abraham (7), Akshay Kumar (9), Arjun Rampal (11), actor Imran Khan (12), Saif Ali Khan (13), Atif Aslam (16), Riz Ahmed (21), Siddhartha Mallya (31), Mahendra Dhoni (33), Aamir Khan (35), Zaheer Khan (39) and hip hop star Shizzio (46).

Bollywood

December 16, 2011

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M D

irector Madhur Bhandarkar is sure about one thing: his heroine Kareena Kapoor will not disappoint. So, what's with the reports that the 'soon-to-get-married' Kareena will not shoot intimate scenes with any of the co-stars as it a kind of a pact between her and beau Saif Ali Khan? But it's certainly hogwash as Kareena is giving her cent percent to the film and even cried (no foul cry) while shooting for some emotional scenes. While talking to a daily, the director of Heroine says, "She won't ever disappoint her directors. She never asks for alterations in scenesâ&#x20AC;Ś. So, I don't know anything about any news story, but I know my heroine is doing a fabulous job." As for now Madhur has only Heroine on his mind. The director was keeping low when his film got stalled because of Aishwarya Rai's pregnancy.

allika Sherawat, who has been constantly shuttling between Mumbai and Los Angeles, is now ready for KLPD in Bollywood. The full title of the film is KLPD - Kismat Love Paisa Dilli, to be directed by Sanjay Khanduri. The movie will be set in Delhi and its suburbs in Haryana, and it will have Mallika playing a Haryanvi girl who meets a Delhi boy and the story unravels over the course of just one night. Vivek Oberoi will play the Delhi boy. The film's producer Amit Chandrra thinks Mallika Sherawat is the perfect choice for the movie because of her Haryanvi background. The character Mallika plays is a feisty, outspoken girl, something on the lines of her role in Pyar Ke Side Effects.

amir Khan and his wife Kiran Rao have been blessed with a baby boy. The baby was born through IVF to a surrogate mother on December 1 at a private clinic in Mumbai. Due to certain medical complications, the couple was advised to go for I V F - S u r r o g a c y. Aamir and Kiran are delighted with the arrival of their new bundle of joy.

India Post

In Brief Congressman for immigrants carrying documents WASHINGTON: An Illinois congressman is recommending that illegal immigrants living in states with tough new immigration laws start carrying documents showing their ties to their US communities. Rep. Luis Gutierrez, a Democrat, says illegal immigrants arrested for immigration violations by local police in states such as Alabama and South Carolina should show the documents to federal agents. He says they can ask to be released under the Department of Homeland Security's prosecutorial discretion policy. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Director John Morton issued a memo in June detailing how ICE agents could use discretion when deciding which illegal immigrants shouldn't be deported. Morton cited cases such as young people brought to the country illegally as children and people with children or spouses who are US citizens. -AP

Immigrants honored in Art Basel week MIAMI BEACH, Fla.: Local activists are getting a bit of the spotlight this week during Art Basel. Art Basel's Public Art Series at Collins Park in Miami Beach features an installation highlighting the work of local groups such as the Florida Immigrant Coalition, Youth Pridelines and the Miami Workers Center. The installation by artists Olga Koumoundouros and Andrea Bowers features the organization's work on behalf of immigrants, gay youth and low-wage workers. It is part of a series of art pieces the artists have produced in various cities, honoring local community groups. -AP

Immigration 36

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December 16, 2011

Chicago office to help immigrant business owners CHICAGO: Chicago officials launched a new department focused on helping immigrant business owners, a move Mayor Rahm Emanuel billed as a step toward making Chicago ``the most immigrant-friendly city in the world.'' Details on page 38

Ala. considers inmates to replace immigrant labor BIRMINGHAM, Ala.: Alabama agriculture officials are considering whether prisoners can fill a chronic labor shortage the farm agency blames on the state's new law against illegal immigration. Brett Hall, a deputy commissioner with the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, said planting season is coming up in south Alabama, and some growers fear most of their usual workers have left the state because of the law. The nursery and landscape industry will need as many as 4,000 workers in southern counties early in 2012 to get ready for the growing season, he said, and forestry and farming will require still more laborers. Unable to find legal residents to fill all the employment gaps, Hall said the Agriculture Department is consulting with the Department of Corrections to determine whether

prisoners could do some of the work. ``We're trying to get ahead of the curve and see if we can be of assistance to other parts of Alabama, too,'' Hall said before the meeting with farmers and agriculture industry officials in Mobile.

tion to labor shortages that may be linked to the law, however, according to Corbett. ``Many, if not most, of those 2,000 are already employed,'' he said. Farmers have complained of a lack of field hands since parts of

The nursery and landscape industry will need as many as 4,000 workers in southern counties early in 2012 to get ready for the growing season, he said, and forestry and farming will require still more laborers Prison spokesman Brian Corbett said the state has about 2,000 work-release prisoners who could be eligible to perform such work, and the department is ``always happy to promote our ... program to employers as an alternative labor situation.'' Workrelease inmates aren't the solu-

the law took effect in late September. Many have said legal residents aren't physically able or mentally tough enough to perform the work, and others won't do so because it doesn't pay enough. Hall said the agriculture positions pay well above minimum wage, but many Americans find

them too ``physically taxing'' to perform. An Internet-based program launched by the state in October to help connect farmers with potential workers has yet to produce results. A state website located at www.joblink.alabama.gov allows employers to post available jobs they need filled, and potential employees can browse the listings looking for work. Tara Hutchison, a spokeswoman with the Department of Industrial Relations, said 70 temporary agriculture jobs are posted on the site, most for work that begins in January, and about 500 people have signed up indicating interest in work. She said the department doesn't know of anyone who has been hired, although it's been told one person has been promised a job beginning in January. -AP

H-1B cap reached for FY 2012 CYRUS D. MEHTA

S Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced that it has received a sufficient number of H1B petitions to reach the statutory numerical limit (cap) of 65,000 for fiscal year (FY) 2012. November 22, 2011, was the final receipt date for new H-1B specialty occupation petitions requesting an employment start date in FY 2012. Properly filed cases are considered received on the date that USCIS physically receives the petition, not the date that the petition was postmarked. As of October 19, 2011, USCIS had also received more than 20,000 H-1B petitions filed on behalf of persons exempt from the cap under the advanced degree exemption. USCIS will continue to accept and process petitions that are otherwise exempt from the cap. In addition, petitions filed on behalf of current H-1B workers who have been counted previously against the cap will not be counted toward the FY 2012 H-1B cap. Accordingly, USCIS will con-

tinue to accept and process petitions filed to: • extend the amount of time a current H-1B worker may remain in the U.S.; • change the terms of employment for current H-1B workers; • allow current H-1B workers to change employers; and • allow current H-1B workers to work concurrently in a second H1B position.

by the cap may want to consider hiring their potential H-1Bs in other countries. Contact the firm for guidance in specific cases. Our blog on the H-1B cap, "shutting down global business in america: why the h-1b cap hurts us all," is available at http:// cyrusmehta.blogspot.com/2011/ 11/shutting-down-global-business-in.html. House votes to end per-coun-

As of October 19, 2011, USCIS had also received more than 20,000 H-1B petitions filed on behalf of persons exempt from the cap under the advanced degree exemption Petitions for "new employment" of an H-1B, that is, for employment of a person who is not yet in H-1B status for another employer, will not be accepted again until April 1, 2012. Those petitions received after April 1, 2012, must request employment starting October 1, 2012, so that they will be subject to next year's cap (FY 2013). Global employers now affected

try limits on employment-based immigration visas On November 29, 2011, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 389-15 in favor of ending per-country numerical limits (caps) on employment-based visas. The bill does not raise the number of such visas issued, but would eliminate the current provision stating that employment-based visas issued

cannot exceed seven percent of the total for any one country. The measure could benefit skilled Indian and Chinese workers and high-tech companies in the United States. Similar legislation is pending in the Senate. Employers may bundle L-1 Filings, USCIS announces U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently said it recognizes that businesses may need to temporarily move multiple employees to the United States for particular projects that require the employees' specialized knowledge. To do this, USCIS said that employers may petition for their employees to obtain L-1 nonimmigrant classification by filing Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker. While each L-1 petition must be considered on its own merits, USCIS will consider multiple applications grouped into "bundles" of L-1 petitions as part of an effort to streamline and improve the adjudication process. Cont’d on page 39

Immigration Post

December 16, 2011

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Alabama AG says change immigration law MONTGOMERY,Ala.:Alabama's attorney general has become the highest ranking Republican official to suggest throwing out parts of his state's tough new immigration law, as he recommended that lawmakers repeal some portions of the statute that have been put on hold by federal courts and clarify some others. In a letter to legislative leaders, Attorney General Luther Strange said the proposed changes would make the law ``easier to defend in court'' and ``remove burdens on law-abiding citizens.'' The private letter, acquired by The Associated Press, represents the first time the attorney general has expressed concerns since he started defending the law against a federal court challenge filed by about 30 organizations and individuals. The law is considered by both opponents and supporters as the toughest in the US against illegal immigrants. Strange recommended repealing a section that makes it a crime for an illegal immigrant to fail to carry registration documents. That section has been put on hold temporarily by a federal court. Strange said it ``adds little in terms of enforcement'' because federal law already makes it a crime and repealing it would al-

low police ``to focus on more important aspects of the law.'' He also suggested repealing the requirement that public schools collect information on the immigration status of students. That section is also on hold. His letter was written in response to Senate President Pro Tem Del Marsh, R-Anniston, who said the Legislature would only consider changes recommended

the school data and the diversion of resources to do that far outweigh the need to gather the data for use in litigation. Strange also suggested repealing two portions of the law that allow citizens to sue public officials to compel them to enforce the new law. The state's chief law officer said those sections conflict with state constitutional provisions.

A leading business organization in Alabama's largest urban area called for revisions, saying it was concerned that the law taints Alabama's image around the world by the attorney general. Marsh and House Speaker Mike Hubbard, R-Auburn, did not immediately respond to requests for comments about the letter that Strange sent them late last week. Strange said his recommendations were based only on the legal challenge to the law and on efforts to make the law clearer, but did not address policy decisions by the Legislature. ``The legislative leadership asked for our opinion and we provided it,'' he said in an e-mail. He said the cost of gathering

``Law enforcement and district attorneys throughout the state are concerned about being sued by citizens despite their best efforts to enforce the law,'' Strange said. Strange recommended clarifying a prohibition against an illegal immigrant entering into a business transaction with a state, city or county government agency. ``Some counties and municipalities have been confused by what is considered a `business transaction' and in some instances this confusion has led to long lines and delays at county and municipal

offices. Tightening up the definition of `business transaction' would help alleviate these issues,'' he said. The Legislature passed the law to scare off illegal immigrants and open up jobs for legal residents in a state suffering from more than 9 percent unemployment. The law took effect in late September, except for provisions put on hold temporarily by federal courts. Despite the jobs goal, a leading business organization in Alabama's largest urban area called for revisions, saying it was concerned that the law taints Alabama's image around the world. The Birmingham Business Alliance said complying with the law is a burden for businesses and local governments. ``Revisions to our current law are needed to ensure that momentum remains strong in our competitive economic development efforts,'' said James T. McManus, chairman of the alliance and CEO of Energen Corp. The group did not offer specific changes. The alliance voiced its

opinion one day after Republican Gov. Robert Bentley said he is concerned the law might be affecting industrial recruitment. Bentley also said the law needs simplifying, but it shouldn't be repealed. An opponent of the law, Democratic Sen. Billy Beasley of Clayton, said revisions are not enough, and he will push ahead with legislation to repeal it in the legislative session starting Feb. 7. ``I don't feel that the senators who voted for it realized the fallout there would be and the effect of the law,'' he told reporters. Also, state agriculture officials met with farmers in southwest Alabama to discuss their concerns that the law has driven off the laborers they will need to plant their crops in the spring. Officials discussed the possibility of using prison inmates to fill any farm labor shortages. One of the attorneys challenging the law, Karen Tumlin of the Immigration Law Center, said officials are beginning to see the ``devastating'' impact the law is having on the state. -AP

Adams: UGA will adhere to immigrant policy ATLANTA: University of Georgia President Michael Adams has said the campus will continue to follow a state policy banning illegal immigrants from enrolling despite a vote by faculty and staff calling for its repeal. The university's faculty and staff council voted to urge the Board of Regents to overturn the policy. The vote is largely symbolic and does not change the UGA administration's enforcement of the statewide rule. ``The policy burdens institutions with political issues that are aimed at less than one-quarter of a percent of our student population, diverts admissions resources and denies high-achieving Georgia high school graduates the chance to compete with out-of-state and international students for admission,'' the resolution states. Adams said as with all university council votes, he will forward the resolution to the Board of Regents ``without comment.'' The UGA student council passed a similar resolution recently.

``The University of Georgia will follow all state laws and rules, as well as regents' policy. That's pretty much the whole story from where I sit,'' Adams said in a call with reporters before the vote. ``Is the student government

The study found that less than 1 percent of the state's public college students were illegal immigrants and the council within their rights to move a resolution like this forward? Yes, they are. We will try to make sure everyone gets heard on the issue.'' The policy, adopted last fall, bars any state school or university that has rejected an academically qualified applicant in the prior two years from accepting illegal immigrants. It only applies to five campuses: the University

of Georgia, Georgia Tech, Georgia State University, Georgia Health Sciences University and Georgia College & State University. Illegal immigrants can still attend any of the system's other 30 schools, as long as they pay outof-state tuition. Regents chairman Ben Tarbutton referred all comments to university system spokesman John Millsaps. ``While individuals and groups are free to express opinions, currently there are no plans for the board to take up this issue again,'' he said in a prepared statement. The Regents conducted a study last year amid public concerns that Georgia state colleges and universities were being overrun by illegal immigrants, taxpayers were subsidizing their education and legal residents were being displaced. The study found that less than 1 percent of the state's public college students were illegal immigrants, and that students who pay out-of-state tuition more than pay for their education.-AP

PRADEEP ROY-SINGH B.A. LL.B. M.B.A. J.D. Attorney-at-Law

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Immigration Post

India Post

December 16, 2011

www.indiapost.com

Job effects of immigration law unclear BIRMINGHAM, Ala.: Economists say it may take years and extensive research to determine whether Alabama's new law clamping down on illegal immigration helps or hurts the state's job market. Supporters of the law have cited improving unemployment numbers in a few counties with large Hispanic populations to claim the law is helping create jobs for legal residents. Critics were bolstered by an industry report last week that showed fewer construction jobs in Alabama, presumably because the sector contracted as workers left the state because of the law. Experts said neither claim holds much water, at least statistically. Illegal immigrants don't show up in labor statistics because they are part of an ``underground economy'' and often are paid offthe-books and in cash, they said. Federal unemployment statistics are based on random telephone

interviews, and people living in the country illegally typically don't have listed phone numbers so they aren't contacted. Also, they said, employment trends typically build gradually and take time to become visible to statisticians. The law didn't take effect until Sept. 29. Malcolm Getz, an economist at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn., said short-term effects of the law will be masked by other things within the marketplace, like the continuing recovery of the financial industry. ``Empirical evidence on the issue will be several years off,'' Getz said. He suspects the law will hurt the state's economy in the longrun but said no proof is readily available. Keivan Deravi, of Auburn University Montgomery, said the only way to accurately assess the impact of the law is to research the state's agriculture and construction industries, which both have large

numbers of immigrant workers. "(The impact) can easily be captured if we start collecting all this anecdotal information and putting it in a database, but that has not been done yet,'' Deravi said.

Deravi said legal residents may fill positions once held by illegal immigrations, but any such changes would likely be small so far The law's effect on employment is being watched because Republican supporters said it would free up positions for legal Alabama residents. They say unemployment should fall as illegal residents flee the state, allowing

legal residents to fill in the gaps. But legal residents aren't taking all the jobs that are being vacated. The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, headed by Republican Commissioner John McMillan, plans a meeting with farmers and owners of agriculture-related businesses in Mobile to discuss solutions to what the agency called ``chronic labor shortages created by Alabama's new immigration law.'' Deravi said legal residents may fill positions once held by illegal immigrations, but any such changes would likely be small so far. The random phone surveys used to compile unemployment statistics would have only a tiny chance of finding people who got work because of the law, he said. Part of the problem is that no one knows exactly how many illegal immigrants live in the state. Similarly, no one knows exactly how many are employed or how many might show up in companies'

reports or paperwork, said Ahmad Ijaz, an economist at the University of Alabama. ``Most illegal immigrants are not included in the labor force. They generally work off the official payrolls for subcontractors or sub-subcontractors so no one really knows the exact numbers,'' Ijaz said. ``Besides, (the) construction industry is in a recession anyway, so it will be awhile before we know once the construction industry picks back up to what the impact is.'' Getz, in an interview conducted by email, said it will be difficult to ever get an accurate idea of the effects of the law. ``What changes are due to immigration policy and what is due to other events is difficult to say,'' he said. ``Associating specific changes to immigration policy when many forces are at play is speculative. Careful analysis won't be possible for a number of years.'' -AP

Chicago office to help immigrant Alabama governor reassures foreign industries business owners CHICAGO: Chicago officials launched a new department focused on helping immigrant business owners, a move Mayor Rahm Emanuel billed as a step toward making Chicago ``the most immigrant-friendly city in the world.'' The Office of New Americans is a modest step: It's a one-person department focused on improving access to existing services, instead of providing new ones, at least at first. One of the first tasks is to help expand an annual day of business workshops geared toward immigrant entrepreneurs. But city leaders hope the department which will soon cover other immigrant-related issues will lead to more jobs and promote Chicago as a global economic hub, potentially luring in business. Adolfo Hernandez, a former activist who will head the office, said it's a signal that the city wants immigrant business. ``Chicago's history is closely tied to the (American) immigration story,'' said Hernandez, a native Chicagoan from the city's Little Village neighborhood, one of the largest Mexican business enclaves nationwide. ``It's important that we recognize that immigrants bring a lot. They're not a drain on our resources. They're contributing.'' Immigrants were more than twice as likely to start businesses

as non-immigrants in 2010, and the number of immigrant business owners is growing, according to a study by Robert Fairlie, a professor at the University of California in Santa Cruz who has researched the issue for the U.S. Small Business Administration. The reasons aren't clear cut, but Fairlie said that immigrants may face barriers in the labor mar-

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Immigrants tend to be pretty entrepreneurial, they're not the people who stayed in their home country, they've leftâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ket, such as language, having educational credentials that don't transfer or face discrimination. So starting a business is a way to counteract those factors. ``Immigrants tend to be pretty entrepreneurial, they're not the people who stayed in their home country, they've left,'' he said. ``They already have some propensity to take risk.'' Municipal departments dedicated to immigrants aren't new, but Chicago's approach appears more uncommon because of its kickoff emphasis on immigrant entrepreneurs. Chicago's depart-

ment will expand its focus to other issues like language and U.S. citizenship. Earlier this year, New York City announced some initiatives to help immigrant business owners. Los Angeles has programs for minority-owned businesses and Philadelphia contracts with a nonprofit that helps immigrant entrepreneurs. Hernandez said new immigrant businesses could be a key to jumpstarting the economy. He envisions working with Chicago Public Schools, community groups and government agencies for education and training. Business owners said a department for immigrants the first of its kind for Chicago is welcome. One of the city's most prominent immigrant-owned companies is Patel Brothers, a grocery store chain featuring Indian foods. In 1974, the family business opened a store in a segment of Chicago that's become one of the largest South Asian business enclaves this side of the globe. Now, Patel Brothers has 46 stores nationwide. Swetal Patel, a vice president and son of one of the owners, said the company also supports ancillary businesses, like a plastic bag manufacturer. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We provide revenue into the economy, jobs for people,'' he said. -AP

MONTGOMERY, Ala.: Alabama's governor has said he is worried the state's tough crackdown on illegal immigration law could hurt the recruitment of foreign industries, so he's reaching out to foreign executives to let them know that the state welcomes them. ``We are not anti-foreign companies. We are very pro-foreign companies,'' Bentley told reporters at the Capitol. The Republican governor and other supporters of the law have described it as the nation's toughest. Some parts of it were put on hold by the federal courts, but major provisions took effect in late September, including allowing police to detain motorists who can't produce a valid driver's license. Since then, two foreign workers with the Mercedes-Benz and Honda auto assembly plants in Alabama have run into problems. On Nov. 16, a German manager with Mercedes-Benz was arrested under the law in Tuscaloosa for not having a driver's license with him while driving a rental car. The charge was dismissed after the man provided documents in municipal court. Bentley said he learned about the arrest in a call from someone with Mercedes, but he did not say whom. Recently, a Honda employee from Japan was detained under the law in Leeds. Police at a roadblock

found him carrying an international driver's license and passport, but not an Alabama license or Japanese license as required by the law. Leeds police said they released the man under the immigration law at a magistrate's recommendation, and a city judge dismissed a charge of driving without a license. Before the auto workers' problems, in early November, Bentley told a Birmingham business audience that the law had not hurt Alabama's image with industrial prospects. But Bentley now says the two arrests involving foreign auto workers ``theoretically'' could hurt Alabama's ability to recruit foreign industries. ``Obviously people worry about that. I worry about that. I want our image to be very positive because we are open for business in Alabama,'' he said. Bentley's job as governor includes leading industrial recruitment efforts, and he said he is calling foreign executives as reassurance about the law. Bentley said he has talked with officials at companies including Mercedes and Golden Dragon, a Chinese company that has announced - but not yet built -a copper tubing plant in Thomasville. The governor said he's assured them that Alabama will work through any problems with the immigration law. -AP

Immigration Post

December 16, 2011

www.indiapost.com

US anti-immigration scam campaign goes national NEWARK, New Jersey: Immigration services scams are getting so sophisticated that fraudsters now advertise online with websites that perfectly mimic those of official government agencies, U.S. officials said as they rolled out a nationwide awareness campaign meant to combat such practices. Officials from several federal, state and local agencies, as well as immigration lawyers and advocates, met in Newark to expand nationwide a campaign that started in seven pilot cities. It focuses on enforcement, education and interagency collaboration. ``They are not just high-tech scams, they are people in the neighborhoods: people who know people, people who are out there shaking hands,'' said Kelvin Chen, an attorney with the Federal Trade Commission, as he spoke about the need to increase awareness among immigrants who are often preyed upon by members of their own communities. The campaign is aimed at educating legal and illegal immigrants to avoid everything from unli-

censed service providers to websites that mimic those of government agencies. Most scams involve people who pretend to be able to provide legal aid or other services for immigrants, take victims' money and fail to deliver. The initiative is also intended to inform immigrants about how to

Several speakers at the conference said it's often challenging to get victims of immigration scams to report them get legitimate legal help and how to report fraud. It began in Atlanta, Baltimore, Detroit, Los Angeles, New York City, San Antonio, and Fresno, California. The campaign, spearheaded by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, features ads, posters and leaflets published in English and Spanish, and a website with information available in 12 additional lan-

guages. USCIS officials say they are working to strengthen partnerships at the federal, state and local levels to improve coordination, information sharing and enforcement. Several speakers at the conference said it's often challenging to get victims of immigration scams to report them, either out of fear of deportation, or after the trauma of being scammed not just of money, but often, of important documents such as birth certificates that are sometimes stolen by unscrupulous practitioners. By the time they reach the offices of attorney Lloyd Bennett of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, they've often been steered wrong elsewhere. Bennett said an acute and ongoing problem in the northern New Jersey communities where he works is with ``'notarios,'' or storefront offices that offer an array of immigration services and are prevalent in Spanish-speaking communities. Bennett said the word ``'notario''' or ``notary'' is actually translated as ``attorney'' in many Spanish-speaking countries, so those seeking services assume they are legitimate. -AP

H-1B cap reached for FY 2012 Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 36

For USCIS to consider the bundle, all included L-1B petitions must be related to employees on the same project, who will work at the same location, and who have the same specialized knowledge duties. USCIS will also consider petitions for L-1A managers included with the bundle, if they will be managing the L-1B beneficiaries who will be working on the project. In addition, USCIS will consider Forms I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, filed for a beneficiary's qualifying dependents included in the bundle. The agency also offered filing tips for bundling L-1 petitions. DOL releases new PERM FAQ on listing job duties not normal to occupation; discusses updates to SOC codes The Department of Labor has posted a revised frequently asked questions (FAQ) sheet regarding the PERM program and listing job requirements not normal to the occupation on both the ETA Form 9141, Prevailing Wage Request, and the ETA Form 9089. The brief FAQ states: Does informing the National Prevailing Wage Center (NPWC)

on a prevailing wage request (ETA Form 9141) that the job contains requirements not normal to the occupation meet an employer's obligation to inform the Department of Labor (Department) of these requirements on the Application for Permanent Employment Certification (ETA Form 9089)?

USCIS will also consider petitions for L-1A managers included with the bundle, if they will be managing the L-1B beneficiaries No. Even if the employer has informed the NPWC of these requirements in a prevailing wage request (ETA Form 9141), the employer must still accurately outline its requirements on Questions H.12 or H.13 of the Application for Permanent Employment Certification (ETA Form 9089). The Department also said it is working to incorporate new and/or revised Standard Occupational Classification (SOC)

codes into the PERM online application system. Until the new codes are fully integrated, they may not be available in the online system and the Atlanta National Processing Center will accept the older SOC codes even though they may not match the code indicated on the prevailing wage determination. The Office of Foreign Labor Certification suggested that filers "may also consider placing the new SOC job title in section H.3, and the new SOC code in section H.14 of the ETA Form 9089."

* Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com

India Post

Health

Line

CA University to take over Nevada Cancer Institute LAS VEGAS: The University of California, San Diego Health System has reached an agreement to acquire the financially troubled Nevada Cancer Institute in Las Vegas. The Las Vegas Review-Journal reports the nonprofit medical center filed for bankruptcy protection to help complete the sale. The sale is occurring with a negotiated restructuring with the cancer institute's lenders, and institute co-founder and board member Heather Murren says the banks have written off $50 million of debt. UC San Diego spokeswoman Jacqueline Carr says her university is impressed with the cancer institute's facilities and staff, and is excited about the prospect of bringing it into the UC, San Diego Health System family. -AP

Philly council approves bill on same-sex benefits PHILADELPHIA: Contractors and subcontractors on big projects in Philadelphia will have to provide health coverage and other benefits to the same-sex partners of their workers. Philadelphia City Council approved the measure with little controversy, in marked contrast to a 1998 measure that extended similar benefits to same-sex partners of city workers. The new ordinance requires employers who perform work on projects that cost more than $250,000 to provide the benefits. -AP

Health Science 40

India Post

www.indiapost.com

December 16, 2011

Few teens sexting racy photos, new research says CHICAGO: Teen sexting of nude photos online or via cellphone may be far less common than people think, new research suggests. Details on page 42

Laptops with Wi-Fi may be hazardous to men DEVRA DAVIS, PHD, MPH

emo to men: if you want to father a healthy child, keep your laptop off your lap. As Reuters reported, a study in the journal Fertility and Sterility has sobering news: sperm from healthy men placed under a laptop wirelessly connected to the Internet died twice as fast as those that were not exposed, and developed three times more damage to their DNA. The culprit: Invisible microwave radiation that conducts wireless communication, according to the Argentinian scientists who performed the experiment. Even if you choose to ignore this and similar test-tube based results, other studies in real men carried out at the Cleveland Clinic and Australia's National Research Center of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development link cell phone use with fewer and more damaged sperm. Experiments conducted with rats and

rabbits have also produced compelling evidence on the spermdamaging impact of microwave radiation. Prof. Stan Glantz, the acclaimed University of California researcher who exposed how the tobacco industry fomented scientific doubts about its dangers,

iPhones that they can hold right over those tender zones that will someday determine their capacity to make healthy babies themselves? Mary Redmayne of Victoria University found that a majority of New Zealand adolescents carried a switched-on cell phone in their pants pocket for

Just keeping a phone in the shirt or pants pocket can result in four to seven times more microwave radiation exposure in adults than the Federal Communications Commission recommends just last month told a Berkeley City Hearing on the subject that he found today's cell phone science comparable to that on tobacco dangers in the 1950s growing and worrisome. "As a male contraceptive, cell phones aren't really reliable, but clearly something is going on." What are we doing to our children? Should we really be giving babies plastic rattle cases for

more than six hours daily and that most can text without looking. When asked about this work, New Zealand fertility expert Ken McNatty warned, "It's long been known that infertility can be caused by DNA damage to sperm or eggs.... Now there is evidence to suggest that cell phone microwaves also cause DNA damage to sperm." Few folks know that smart

phones and other wireless devices come with manufacturers' fine-print warnings not to hold them next to the body, that controlled studies show that microwave radiation from cell phones weakens the brain's protective barrier, and that test animals exposed to such radiation produce fewer and more damaged sperm and offspring with smaller and more damaged brains. Just keeping a phone in the shirt or pants pocket can result in four to seven times more microwave radiation exposure in adults than the Federal Communications Commission recommends. For the smaller bodies of children, of course, levels would be even greater. Want to give your kids a really cool holiday gift this year? Think again before offering them the chance to microwave their small bodies and brains. Devra Davis, is Founder and President of Environmental Health Trust.

AAPI's Healthcare Summit to be held in Hyderabad India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The 5th annual AAPI Indo-US Healthcare Summit, hosted in conjunction with the Federation of Andhra Pradesh Medical Graduates in USA (APMGUSA), will be held at the Taj Krishna Hotel in Hyderabad, Jan 2-4. The previous Summits were held in New Delhi and Jaipur and this is the first time that AAPI's global summit is being convened in a city in South India. The three-day Summit will be inaugurated by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy and several Union and State Ministers, Members of Parliament, healthcare policy makers, representatives of international organizations such as WHO and others are coming to the global event that is expected to

attract over 300 physicians from the US and India. The primary goal of the Summit is to raise awareness of key health care issues affecting the Indian subcontinent such as diabetes, lung diseases, asthma & allergies, cardiovascular diseases, women's & children's health and

comes while maintaining cost-effectiveness. The participants are pre-selected by the respective co-chairs from US and India and each team will develop specific proposals with focus on prevention, management and treatment to enhance effectiveness and delivery of care.

The previous Summits were held in New Delhi and Jaipur and this is the first time that AAPI's global summit is being convened in a city in South India cancer, Dr. Sunita Kanumury, president of AAPI said. The highlight of this 5th annual Summit is to reaffirm AAPI's commitment in improving health care across India and create prototype programs of implementation for various disease categories specifically designed to improve out-

AAPI USA will continue to be the lead organizer along with local Indian organizations such as Indian Medical Association (IMA), Medical Council of India (MCI) and others, she said. "This summit will focus on development and implementation of demonstration projects with spe-

cific and measurable outcomes. When proven successful, these projects can then be deployed both nationally and internationally. We look forward to collaborating with the leading healthcare providers in the US and India to improve health outcomes and enhance each other's knowledge, and share best practices and experiences," Dr. Kanumury said. Dr. Kanumury had a meeting with Ponnala Lakshmaiah, Andhra Pradesh Minister for Information Technology and Endowments in New York recently and discussed the Summit agenda and the possible involvement of the State Government. AAPI's Pre-Summit CME and mini Eastern Trauma conference will be held in Bhubaneshwar in Orissa Dec 2831 and is being held in collaboration with Kalinga Foundation and Kalinga Hospitals.

Health Science Post

December 16, 2011

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Study finds surge in young nurses N. Kentucky offers free dental screenings for kids over past decade WASHINGTON: A surge in young nurses may ease forecasts of coming shortages as their babyboomer coworkers retire. The past decade brought a 62 percent increase in the number of younger registered nurses entering the workforce, researchers reported in the journal Health Affairs. A young influx is noteworthy because at least 900,000 of the nation's roughly 3 million nurses are older than 50, meaning they're nearing retirement. At the same time, the population is aging and getting more chronic diseases, bringing an increased demand for care even before the new health care law that promises to help 32 million more Americans gain insurance within a few years. The numbers of 20-something nurses had dropped steadily through the 1980s and 1990s, hitting a low in 2002. But by 2009, there were 165,000 full-time equivalent nurses ages 23 to 26, reported lead researcher David Auerbach, a health economist at RAND Health. There's been a national push for more nurses in recent years,

Adding to the shortage question is how to assure nurses are distributed adequately around the country. New York University nursing professor Christine Kovner led a survey of newly licensed RNs in 15 states, and found just over half work within 40 miles of where they attended high school with accelerated degrees and other programs aimed to attract both young nurses and secondcareer ones in their 30s, said study coauthor Peter Buerhaus, a nursing professor at Vanderbilt University. The latter group is on the rise, too, not unexpected in tough economic times. But it's not clear if the growth in new nurses will continue

enough to meet the coming demand. ``Keep it up and maybe we'll get out of the woods,'' Buerhaus said. Another issue is whether there are enough nurses trained in geriatric care, especially for outpatients, areas that a recent Institute of Medicine report deemed key. Adding to the shortage question is how to assure nurses are distributed adequately around the country. New York University nursing professor Christine Kovner led a survey of newly licensed RNs in 15 states, and found just over half work within 40 miles of where they attended high school. Census data shows it's one of the least mobile professions, Kovner wrote in Health Affairs. It's not clear why, but one reason is an increase in second-career nurses who already have family obligations by the time they switch jobs, she said. To compensate, policy makers should expand nurse-training programs in rural and other underserved areas, she concluded. -AP

EDGEWOOD, Ky: The Northern Kentucky Health Department has teamed up with area dentists so that children can get free dental screenings. They are combating an increase in children with cavities in a state that's already known for bad oral health. Eleven dentists are offering free dental screenings and affordable dental sealant and fluoride to children in Boone, Kenton, Campbell and Grant counties. Linda Poynter, the oral health program manager at the Northern Kentucky Health Department, told The Kentucky Enquirer that the agency has stepped up its educational efforts on the need for good oral health (http://bit.ly/tKkP4L). She said too often children suffer because they don't have the financial means to visit a dentist or it's not a priority with their families. ``Many people, because of lack of education, or how they grew up, think that dental care is something that they can do without,'' Poynter said. ``Often school nurses will talk to parents, and they'll say that they don't want to do anything because they're just

baby teeth and they're going to fall out anyway.'' Poynter said that can lead to needless pain that could keep children from doing their best in school. She said the rate of tooth decay at schools visited by the health department in northern Kentucky has increased in recent years. She said the percentage of tooth decay was 45 percent in 2009, 47 percent in 2010 and 49 percent so far this year. ``If a child goes into the school nurse's office with a broken arm, you can see it,'' she said. ``Something's going to be done. But with a toothache, it's not visible, and it's not taken as seriously, yet it could have a deadly outcome.'' Last month, 19 second-grade students at Fort Wright Elementary School received dental screenings. A dental hygienist plans a follow-up visit during which a sealant will be applied to their teeth. ``We're really fortunate that we're able to do this at our school,'' said Brandi Kekua-Ellison, coordinator of the Fort Wright Elementary Family Resource Center. -AP

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December 16, 2011

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Few teens sexting racy photos, new research says CHICAGO: Teen sexting of nude photos online or via cellphone may be far less common than people think, new research suggests. Only 1 percent of kids aged 10 to 17 have shared images of themselves or others that involve explicit nudity, a nationally representative study found. Roughly the same number said they'd shared suggestive but less graphic photos; while 7 percent said they'd received either type of picture. The research suggests texting of sexual photos among younger kids is extremely rare but more common among older teens. The results are reassuring, showing that teen sexting isn't rampant, usually isn't malicious, and is generally not something parents should panic over, said lead author Kimberly Mitchell, a research assistant psychology professor at the University of New Hampshire. Previous reports said as many as one in five young people - 20 percent - have participated in sexting. But some surveys included older teens and people in their early 20s. And some used definitions of

sexting that included racy text messages without photos, or images ``no more revealing than what someone might see at a beach,'' authors of the new study said. They focused only on pictures, and asked more detailed questions about the kinds of racy photos kids are sharing. The researchers did a separate study on how police deal with teen sexting of photos. Contrary to some reports, that research suggests few kids are being prosecuted or forced to register as sex offenders for sexting. It estimates that nearly 4,000 teen sexting cases were reported to police nationwide in 2008 and 2009. Slightly more than one-third of those cases resulted in arrests. About one-third of all cases involved teens and young adults; the adults were much more likely to be arrested. The studies were released in the journal Pediatrics. The research shows that sexting can range from incidents that some teen health experts consider typical adolescent exploring the 21st century version of sneaking a look at dad's Playboy maga-

zine, to malicious cases with serious consequences made possible by today's technology. For example, one case involved a 10-year-old boy who sent a cellphone picture of his genitals to an 11-year-old classmate ``to gross her out.'' The girl's mother called police; the boy cried when

Contrary to some reports, that research suggests few kids are being prosecuted or forced to register as sex offenders for sexting questioned by police, who concluded he didn't understand the magnitude of his actions and left the matter to his parents. Another involved a 16-year-old girl who said she accidentally posted a nude photo of herself on a social networking site. A 16-yearold boy at her school found the photo and distributed it to 100

people when she refused his demand to send him more nude pictures. He was charged with a felony and was put on probation. The results suggest that police generally aren't overreacting to teen sexting, said Janis Wolak, lead author of the second study. Some cases that aren't clearly criminal are still worrisome and warrant intervention by parents or others, she said. In the first study, researchers questioned 1,560 kids nationwide by phone, with parents' permission, between in August 2010 and January of this year. The second study is based on mailed questionnaires to nearly 3,000 police departments and follow-up phone interviews with investigating officers about sexting cases handled in 2008 and 2009. The studies illustrate how sexting may include a wide range of teen behavior, and highlight an issue ``about which we as a society have gotten pretty hysterical and probably blew out of proportion,'' said Dr. Michael Rich, director of the Center on Media and Child Health at Children's Hospital Boston.

Exploring sexuality is normal behavior for teens and taking pictures of themselves and others is one way ``just to find out what it is like,'' he said. ``We've been doing that since somebody scribbled a picture of a nude woman on the side of a cave and the guys gathered around to check it out.''-AP Sexting is different only because it is happening ``in an environment that the adult community doesn't understand as well as kids,'' Rich said. Dr. Victor Strasburger, an adolescent medicine expert at the University of New Mexico, said parents, schools and law enforcement authorities ``need to understand that teenagers are neurologically programmed to do dumb things.'' Their brains aren't mature enough to fully realize the consequences of their actions, including sexting, until early adulthood, he said. Instead of prosecution, he said, there should be more emphasis on teaching teens to be responsible with new technology. Kids need to be told ``that when you put things online and even when you send them via cellphone, they're potentially there forever.'' -AP

Lawsuit spawned federal investigation NV mine disputes allegations JACKSON, Miss: The head of by Hahn with DHA money. been spent appropriately. We beof safety violations the Delta Health Alliance is re``I am entirely, completely com- lieve in the end when the investiportedly under scrutiny for alleged misuse of funds, but her attorney says other investigations have shown no wrongdoing. The Mississippi Business Journal reports that the allegations came in a wrongful termination lawsuit filed by James Hahn, a former vice president of programs at Stoneville, Miss.-based DHA. The DHA provides funding for health care programs to the poor in the Mississippi Delta. The Business Journal said the lawsuit caught the attention of federal prosecutors in north Mississippi. Hahn claims in his lawsuit that he was fired in May 2010 after he raised concerns to the board of directors about possible misuse of funds by DHA's CEO Dr. Karen Fox. Hahn said in his lawsuit that a ``sham investigation'' by the board found no wrongdoing by Fox. Hahn said he was fired when he refused to sign a release promising not to report any of his concerns to federal agencies. Hahn sued DHA in July 2010 in Lafayette County Circuit Court. Roy Campbell III, a Jackson attorney who represents DHA, said an investigation into Hahn's claims initiated before Hahn's lawsuit was filed, found that Fox was authorized to pay for each of the expenses cited

fortable with the investigation, which continued over the course of the lawsuit,'' Campbell said. ``Nothing was uncovered that indicated any wrongdoing on the part of Dr. Fox.'' Mike Watts, an Oxford attorney who represents Fox, said he has been given no indication from the U.S. Attorney's Office as to how long the investigation would last.

Hahn claims in his lawsuit that he was fired in May 2010 after he raised concerns to the board of directors about possible misuse of funds ``I think the government would probably do it as expeditiously as they can, but they have not told me when it might end,'' he said. Watts said aside from DHA's internal investigation into the matter, routine audits performed by the federal Health Resources and Services Administration have turned up nothing illegal. ``All these audits, as far as I know, show that everything has

gation is concluded that it will show that Dr. Fox didn't do anything improper,'' he said. Campbell said DHA has voluntarily turned over about six years' worth of audits to the U.S. Attorney's Office. That would span Fox's time as CEO. ``We have cooperated fully with the investigation and intend to continue to do so,'' he said. Campbell said Hahn was fired ``because the board found the situation of one of Dr. Fox's right-hand people making unfounded allegations against her intolerable.'' DHA settled the Lafayette County lawsuit with Hahn earlier this year. Details were confidential. In September, a judge granted a motion from Hahn's attorney, Jim Waide of Tupelo, asked the court to release details of the settlement. Attached to the motion was a copy of a subpoena dated Sept. 20, 2011, commanding him to appear before a federal grand jury in Oxford. Waide said once the judge entered the order to release the documents, federal prosecutors issued another subpoena on Nov. 15 and picked up the case file shortly thereafter. He declined to comment further, according to the Business Journal. -AP

RENO, Nev: A northern Nevada gold mine is challenging federal regulators after being cited for alleged safety violations. Yukon-Nevada Gold Corp. officials dispute the U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration's position that the citations issued to its Jerritt Canyon Mill in Elko County concern ``significant and substantial'' violations that could result in serious injury or illness. ``We have initiated discussions with MSHA to resolve each of these citations and intend to appeal all that cannot be resolved appropriately through these discussions,'' the Vancouver, British Columbia-based company said in a statement. MSHA issued six citations to the mine following a special October ``impact'' inspection that targeted mines nationwide with a poor compliance history, and 30 citations following a routine annual inspection that ended Nov. 7. Among other things, the mine was cited for violating regulations requiring the proper disposal and storage of combustible waste, the barricading or posting of unsafe areas with warning signs, and the protection of employees from moving

machine parts. The mine is operated by Queenstake Resources USA, a subsidiary of Yukon-Nevada. Yukon-Nevada officials said they have made ``significant strides'' improving Jerritt Canyon in terms of safety and productivity, and have already spent over $200 million in improvements.

Yukon-Nevada officials said they have made "significant strides'' improving Jerritt Canyon in terms of safety and productivity MSHA conducted the October impact inspections based on a two-year history of the operation, they added. ``During that time significant changes in management and operating procedures have taken place and we believe that we have a very safe operation,'' the company's statement says. ``Historically, Jerritt Canyon boasts zero fatalities in the 30 years of operating and we continue to pursue a goal of zero accidents.'' -AP

December 16, 2011

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Some medical advisors question abortion rules RICHMOND, Va.: Abortionrights activists are not the only people unhappy with emergency abortion clinic regulations that await Gov. Bob McDonnell's signature. Some medical experts who advised state health officials on the development of the regulations suggest that political concerns, not safety problems, were behind the crackdown and are disappointed some of their key recommendations were not followed. Most notably, the regulations adopted by the Board of Health require existing clinics to meet the same strict building standards as new hospital construction. Critics say those guidelines will put most of Virginia's clinics out of business. Legislation passed last winter by the General Assembly requires that all clinics performing five or more first-trimester abortions per month be regulated like hospitals. The legislation called for emergency regulations to take effect by Dec. 31 and remain in place for a year while permanent regulations are developed. Supporters of the regulations say the goal is to protect women's health. Opponents claim the regulations are intended to reduce ac-

cess to abortions. A McDonnell spokesman said the Republican governor continues to review the regulations. ``That being said, he has consistently expressed his pro-life position when it comes to issues of abortion,'' spokesman Jeff Caldwell said. Dr. James E. Ferguson II, chairman of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Virginia, is among a halfdozen medical educators chosen by state Health Commissioner Karen Remley to provide guidance in drafting the regulations. `Èverybody wants safe, appropriate facilities for patient care,'' Ferguson said. `Ì think these things went overboard.'' Ferguson said the document adopted by the board in September went well beyond what the advisory panel recommended, and he has told Remley he doesn't want his name associated with the regulations as they are now written. `Ì don't know where they got changed, but ultimately they were different, more stringent and more restrictive and several of them, at least, unnecessary,'' Ferguson said. Caroline Gibson, a spokes-

woman for Attorney General Kenneth Cuccinelli, said the office advised the board that the strict building standards which cover things like hallway widths and covered entrances are mandated by state law. Dr. Jerome F. Strauss III, dean of Virginia Commonwealth University's School of Medicine, said the advisory panel initially

``Everybody wants safe, appropriate facilities for patient care,'' Ferguson said. ``I think these things went overboard.'' was told that existing clinics could be ``grandfathered in'' and would not be held to standards that were not in place when they opened. So he was surprised to later learn that was not the case. ``There were clearly changes made, and if they were made by individuals with medical qualifications I guess there could be a discussion, but it's not clear to me that that was the case,''

Strauss said. The advisory panel also wanted to limit the regulations to clinics performing surgical abortions, exempting medical terminations of pregnancy, Strauss said. But again, the attorney general's office advised the board that state law makes no distinction between medical and surgical abortions so the board can't either, Gibson said. Joseph Hilbert, the state Health Department's director of governmental and regulatory affairs, declined to comment directly on the panel members' concerns. ``Certainly we very much value and appreciate the assistance they provided us and their willingness to provide their time and expertise,'' he said. Ferguson credits Remley with making ``a good faith effort'' to give medical professionals a voice in drafting the regulations, but he believes the health department ultimately got too hung up on mirroring South Carolina's clinic regulations, which courts have declared constitutional. He said the advisory panel also borrowed from guidelines from the American Congress of Gynecologists and Obstetricians and other sources,

but the final product closely tracks the South Carolina regulations. According to Ferguson, the South Carolina clinic regulations are inappropriate in some respects for Virginia because they cover first- and second-trimester abortions. Second-trimester abortions in Virginia must be done in hospitals. ``There were more than a few things I felt were unnecessary that were just stuck in there because South Carolina had it in there,'' Ferguson said. Ferguson also questioned the need for the strict regulations. ``I asked, `Do we have evidence there are problems in this area? Are women getting sick and are women dying?' And the answer was no,'' Ferguson said. Not all medical professionals who contributed to the process were dissatisfied. Dr. John W. Seeds, a senior associate dean at VCU, said the regulations ``were written carefully to be compliant with constitutional safeguards.'' He also said clinic structure requirements were ``not within the expertise of the advisory group'' and acknowledged that the board had no obligation to follow the panel's recommendations. -AP

Tech News Nepal looks at lifting ban on Indian notes NEW DELHI: Nepal is looking at the possibility of lifting the ban on use of Indian notes of denomination of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000. The issue came up for discussion between India's Commerce Secretary Rahul Khullar and his Nepalese counterpart Purushottam Ojha here. "The Nepalese side noted the possibility that notes of 500 and 1000 Indian rupee denomination may be rendered legitimate for use in Nepal," the minutes of the meeting said. Nepal had banned use of Rs 500 over a decade ago in June 2000. Nepalese workers in India have been facing difficulties in repatriating their hard-earned income to the neighboring country owing to de-legitimization of 500 and 1000 Indian currency and requested that the notes may be allowed for legitimate use in Nepal. -PTI

TechBiz

standing next to a Range Rover Evoque during a press conference

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in Bangalore

December 16, 2011

India hopes to increase trade with ASEAN to $70 billion next year India Post News Service

NEW YORK: With increasing focus on Asia and the Asia Pacific region as key to the future of the world economy, India hopes to enhance its two-way trade with countries in the region to $70 billion by next year, Ambassador

lion by next year." It is well accepted that the AsiaPacific region today is the center of gravity for global opportunities with its continued economic growth, Amb. Rao said. "While the global economic situation is showing several signs of stress, the emerging market countries in

S&P warns of downgrade of 15 euro nations LONDON: Citing increased systemic risk in the region, Standard & Poor's has placed the sovereign ratings of 15 euro zone nations, including AAA-rated Germany and France, under 'CreditWatch' implying the possibility of downgrade. The move overshadowed the optimism over the Franco-German meeting that mulled ways to bolster the sagging economic conditions in the euro area -- a grouping of 17 countries that share the euro currency. S&P has put 15 nations on 'CreditWatch' with negative implications, amid spiraling European debt turmoil that poses threat to the very existence of the currency union. -PTI

A model

bodia-Vietnam highway. In 2000, India and the Mekong basin countries of Southeast Asia - namely, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam - established a Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Forum. Under this Forum, an agreement has been reached to build a Delhi-Hanoi rail link. These countries are also expanded cooperation in the fields of science and technology, space and information technology and

"While the global economic situation is showing several signs of stress, the emerging market countries in Asia are growing well and have demonstrated their resilience," she said

Nirupama Rao

Nirupama Rao said. Addressing a gathering at UCBerkeley Dec 5, on 'India and the Asia-Pacific: Expanding engagement', the Indian Ambassador in the US said, "Trade between India and ASEAN has crossed US$50 billion last year. With the conclusion and coming into force of the India-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement last year, we hope to increase our two-way trade substantially and are confident of achieving our target of US$70 bil-

Asia are growing well and have demonstrated their resilience," she said. In a bid to improve connectivity and people to people exchanges with countries in the region, Rao said the number of flights between India and South East Asian countries has increased manifold; work is also underway on a Trilateral Highway Project between India, Myanmar and Thailand and there is a proposal to build a new India-Myanmar-Laos-Cam-

training, capacity building and human resource development in various sectors, she said. The scope of India's 'Look East' policy has broadened to include the Far East and Pacific island nations extending from Australia to East Asia, with ASEAN at its core. The East Asia region including ASEAN is today India's largest trading partner, Rao said. "We have today, Free Trade Agreements or Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreements with several countries including Japan, RoK, Malaysia and Singapore. We have commenced negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement with Indonesia, Australia and New

India Inc deplores holding back FDI in retail NEW DELHI: Disappointed by the government's decision to put foreign direct investment (FDI) in multi-brand retail on hold, India Inc has described the move as "highly regressive". "... It is a highly regressive move. For the growth of this vital sector of the economy, which is likely to result in strong linkages with the farm sector and for the economy as a whole, it is imperative that reforms like these

Zealand. We intend to persevere towards greater economic integration and towards a Comprehensive Economic Partnership in East Asia," she said. On India's relations with China, Rao said, "The rise of China is a reality that faces the entire world, today. I am often asked whether our relationship with China will be one dominated by increasing competition for influence or for resources. I would not like to char-

should take place," FICCI President Harsh Mariwala said. He was reacting to the announcement made by Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee in Parliament that the government has decided to hold back its decision to allow 51 per cent FDI in multibrand retail. The decision to hold back FDI in multi-brand retail will have a strong impact on the domestic and foreign investor sentiment, another

chamber, the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), said in a release. "We firmly hope that this would not be a rollback and a quick consensus is reached," CII Director General Chandrajit Banerjee said. Describing the volte face as a case of "missed opportunity", Assocham Secretary General D S Rawat said, "It will send a very negative message to foreign investors." Rawat said FDI in multi-brand retail could have created over 10

million jobs in three years, curbed wastage of farm products and benefited farmers through better prices for their produce. . Ficci urged the government to move ahead with this progressive reform and proposed solutions like considering a maximum of 49 per cent FDI in multi-brand retail and increasing the percentage of sourcing from the small scale sector, which was proposed to be fixed at a minimum 30 per cent.-PTI

acterize our relations in such stark terms. Over the last two decades we have sought to deepen our dialogue and strengthen bilateral relations. Today China is our largest trading partner in goods. Peace and tranquility have prevailed in the India-China border areas. At the same time we do remain alert to the fact that China's growing ability to project its military strength, its rapid military modernization, and its visible and growing reach introduces a new calculus in the security situation in our region. The challenge therefore, is to manage the India-China relationship despite inherent complexities and challenges, embedding it in the matrix of dialogue and diplomacy." Of relations with Japan, Rao said, "Our relations with Japan are marked by a harmony of interests, forged by common democratic values, and a strong and durable strategic and development partnership. Our dialogue with Japan is a key component of our policy outreach to the Asia-Pacific." Putting these relations in the perspective of the US, Rao said that soon there will be a trilateral consultation between India, Japan and the US. These consultations would help increase mutual understanding and enhance our cooperative endeavors, she added.

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December 16, 2011

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'Decision on uranium sale to India 2 Indian Americans charged for trafficking perfume will advance Oz interests' MELBOURNE: Calling the ruling Labor's decision to lift ban on uranium sale to India as "deeply significant", Australian Defense Minister Stephen Smith said it would advance Canberra's interests and benefit its ties with the "emerging super power." Asserting that the global community has come to accept that India would not sign Nuclear nonProliferation Treaty, Smith, who was among those who supported Prime Minister Julia Gillard's bold move to reverse the Labor policy on the issue, said he had no reservations over selling uranium to New Delhi. "I think this is a deeply significant decision (of Labor)," he told ABC TV. "This will advance Australia's interest." The Indo-US civil nuclear agreement had changed the nature of the discussion about exports of uranium, Smith said, adding that the accord was approved by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG). "That effectively put India under the international nuclear regulators for the first occasion," he said. India gave a series of undertakings, including a moratorium on future nuclear testing, signing up to the agency's additional protocol and splitting its civilian nuclear technology from the military pro-

gram, he noted. Smith said that International community has come to accept that India will not sign NPT. "This is the best way of making sure that India ... as it takes its rightful place as the largest democracy and one of the three countries that are emerging as a super power in this century -- US, China and India -- has voluntarily agreed

"This whole game changed in 2008-09 when India agreed to place itself under the International Atomic energy agency and under Nuclear Suppliers Group to go under governance of International Atomic Energy Agency. That's a good thing. That's a progress. That's improvement." "This whole game changed in 2008-09 when India agreed to place itself under the International Atomic energy agency and under Nuclear Suppliers Group. And what has occurred as a result of that is that for the first time we

have India under that regulation and that is the essential fundamental point to those who don't agree with this decision (of Labor)," Smith said. He further said that though there was a divide within the Labor on the decision, it would not affect the party. "We have managed this decision well over 20-30-40 years period in terms of different views within our party. What we will now do... Having made fundamentally important strategic decision for Australia's future and our region's future that is now sit down with India and work through a bilateral safeguard agreement," he said. Smith said India has made it clear that it will not sign the NPT and international community has come to accept that and that was why in 2008-2009 the IAEA and NSG agreed that it was best to place India under the governance of the international civil nuclear regulators. "That's what has changed arrangements here. So far as Australia exporting uranium to India is concerned, when we made our decision, our threshold decision in 1984 that we would export uranium we also required that the country of destination had to enter into a separate bilateral safeguards agreement with Australia and that will be the case with India as well," he said. -PTI

10 Indian diamond traders jailed in China BEIJING: Ten of the 22 Indian traders, charged with smuggling diamonds worth USD 7.3 million into China, have been sentenced to varied prison terms ranging from 23 months to six years by a Shenzhen court, which ordered the deportation of the remaining 12. The Shenzhen Intermediate People's Court, which conducted the trial of the diamond traders, most of them from Gujarat, sentenced one of them to six years; two to five years each; one to three years and six months; and five others to three years each, Indian officials, who attended the court proceedings, told PTI here. One more trader was sentenced to one year and eleven months in jail, according to sketchy details received here. The court ordered the deportation of the remaining 12 traders, an official said. Some of the traders were also slapped fines ranging from three lakh to ten lakh yuan (Rs 24 lakh to Rs 80 lakh).

Officials of the Indian Consulate at Guangzhou attended the court proceedings. The 22 traders were arrested on January 8, 2010 in Shenzhen and charged with smuggling diamonds worth USD 7.3 million. They were accused of sourc-

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh took it up with his counterpart Wen Jiabao during the Chinese leader's visit to New Delhi last year ing at least 14,000 carats of diamonds illegally from Hong Kong for sale in the Chinese market. They were also charged with controlling a smuggling ring, working with "henchmen from

Hong Kong", according to reports published earlier in the local media. The jail terms awarded to the 10 traders would include their detention period, which means one of them who has been handed down the sentence of one year and 11 months would be released soon. Ever since the arrest of the 22 diamond traders, India has taken up their case at various levels. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh took it up with his counterpart Wen Jiabao during the Chinese leader's visit to New Delhi last year. External Affairs Minister S M Krishna also took up the case with his counterpart Yang Jiechi. Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, who recently visited China, too urged the Chinese leadership to release them. Following the hectic lobbying efforts, the Chinese government permitted the detainees facilities like access to vegetarian food, considering that most of them were strict vegetarians.-PTI

WASHINGTON: Federal prosecutors have charged two Indian Americans for their roles in a conspiracy to import and traffic in counterfeit perfume. The indictment in this regard was unsealed in the Eastern District Court of New York, the Department of Justice said. Sanjay Anandani, 34, was arrested on December 1 from Secaucus in New Jersey, and Rohit, 28, surrendered to authorities in New Jersey on December 2. The duo, both residents of New Jersey, made their first court appearance on December 5.

Charged on two counts, the two individuals face a maximum 15 years in prison, and a fine amounting to USD 2,250,000. The indictment alleges that Anandani and Rohit imported three shipping containers with counterfeit perfume during 2009 and 2010, as well as 4,600 fragrance boxes bearing counterfeit perfume trademarks. The two-count indictment filed in the eastern district of New York, charges each defendant with conspiracy to traffic in counterfeit goods and trafficking in counterfeit goods, the Justice Department said. -PTI

Khanduri asks industrialists to set up units in hill areas DEHRA DUN: Uttarakhand Chief Minister B C Khanduri has asked the industrialists to take benefits of the recently-amended hill industrial policy and make heavy investment in such areas. During a meeting with a delegation of CII at his residence here, Khanduri said the government had formulated the hill industrial policy in 2008 and recently made some amendments including implementation of single window system to make it more investor-friendly, an official release said here. The Chief Minister the delegation to take benefits of the incentives being given under the policy and make heavy investments in the hilly regions. He said the government is committed to extend allpossible help to investors, who

wanted to set up their units in the hills. Khanduri said since the new hill industrial policy has come into existence, industrialization process in the hills has got a boost and unemployed youths have also been accommodated in the industrial units. However, he said a lot more needs to be done in the direction. The Chief Minister also released a booklet of CII titled " Investment Climate in Uttarakhand." Chairman of CII (Uttarakhand), Dr S Farooq said that new hill industrial policy would promote the industrial investment in the state. He also handed over a paper prepared by CII suggesting to develop special zones for tourism in the state. -PTI

Realty Tidbits Â&#x201E; Indian realty firm launches Dubai operations DUBAI: Investors Clinic Infratech, a leading real estate marketing and brokerage firm operating under the brand name of Investors Clinic, has set up its first international office in Dubai. The firm will cater to NRI demand and interest in the Indian realty market and will also help Indian expatriates identify properties globally. Investors Clinic works with builders to market their developments and also provides real estate brokerage services. Started by first generation entrepreneur Honey Katiyal, it has appointed cricketer Yuvraj Singh as brand ambassador. Announcing the launch, Investors Clinic CEO Honey Katiyal said: "In India, the firm has been showing more that 100 per cent growth over the past four years and has projected revenues of over Rs 180 crore (USD 35 million) for FY2012." -PTI

Â&#x201E; Sobha Developers plan to offload land bank

obha Developers, the Bangalore-based publicly-held realtor, is understood to be looking to offload a part of its 2,550 acres of land bank spread across the country to reduce its gearing (comparison of long term debt to its equity capital) by the end of FY11. The company, which has a debt of Rs 1,362 crore with a gearing of 0.71 times, is looking to bring this level to 0.5 by end of the ongoing fiscal, reports Business Standard. "We are targeting to raise Rs 150 crore through sale of land bank shortly. In addition to this, with steady sales being registered we should be able to able to bring down the leverage to more comfortable levels," a senior official of Sobha Developers was quoted as saying.

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December 16, 2011

SMR's flagship project getting ready in Hyderabad

MR Vinay Fountain Head, the flagship gated community of real estate developers SMR Group, would be ready by February next year. SMR would give possession of the dwelling units then. In all, it has about 975 units in 10-acre project coming up at Hydernagar, near the Miyapur to Ga-chibowli road in Hyderabad. The project is situated near the IT hub of Hyderabad. According to SMR chairman and managing director, S Ram Reddy, who is also the chief architect of the project, the Fountain Head focused on the layout to ensure that it would not be 'crowded'.

DLF acquires additional 26% stake in Hilton Hotels

eal estate major DLF Ltd has taken full control of its joint venture with Hilton Hotels before selling the hospitality property as part of its strategy to divest non-core assets. This will help DLF cut its debt of Rs 22,519 crore (Rs 225.19 billion). DLF acquired the additional 26 per cent stake in its joint venture company - DLF Hotels and Hospitality - from Aro Participation Ltd and Splendid Property Company Ltd, affiliates of Hilton International. At present, the company holds 74 per cent equity in DHHL. According to people close to the deal, the valuation of the 26 per cent stake is nearly Rs 120 crore (Rs 1.2 billion). The DLF spokesperson said: "This transaction was done to take complete ownership of the company and its underlying assets, including inbuilt hotel sites, with a view to monetize them," he said, adding that it was a part of DLF's ongoing non-core divestment strategy. The company had earlier

told Business Standard it was not in favor of offloading its stake in the Hilton JV as the hotel was in its mall premises in Delhi. Confirming the development, a Hilton Worldwide spokesperson said, "DLF has bought the 26 per cent shareholding of Hilton World-

DLF recently adopted a strategy to divest its noncore businesses, which includes hospitality. It has also been in talks with several players for sale of Aman Hotels and Resorts wide in the Hilton-DLF joint venture company. We value our relationship with DLF, and our association will continue through managing the DLF-owned Hilton Garden Inn brand hotel in Saket, New Delhi." According to industry experts, the JV never went the way it was supposed to go. "It gives DLF full control over the venture. "The

New Cuffe Parade gets overwhelming response

odha Group has announced that it sold over 400 apartments at its New Cuffe Parade project near IMAX Dome on the Eastern Freeway in Mumbai. Spread across an area of 23 acres, New Cuffe Parade will entail a whopping investment to the tune of over Rs 10,000 crore over the next 5-7 years, making it one of

obligations during the formation of the JV no longer exists. They had set a goal for 100 hotels, but could open only one," a senior executive in a research firm said. DLF recently adopted a strategy to divest its non-core businesses, which includes hospitality. It has

the largest private investments in the MMR region. New Cuffe Parade in its first phase will consist of elegant twin towers of 63-storied, with 15 acres dedicated to lush green spaces, making this Mumbai's greenest development. Commenting on this response, Abhishek Lodha, MD, Lodha Group, says "New Cuffe Parade is a product of great research on what Mumbai needs. We had the biggest advantage in location to which we have added a product combination that gives homebuyers the best of both worlds. We have not seen too many launches of the right product in the recent past and that has clearly reflected in the overwhelming response that we received for New Cuffe Parade". With its strategic location at the monumental meeting point of the monorail, the metro rail and the Eastern Freeway.

also been in talks with several players for sale of Aman Hotels and Resorts. "Hilton will no longer be restricted in its expansion plans. DLF can also make an exit from this venture now," a senior analyst said. The company's net debt rose to Rs 22,519 crore (Rs 225.19 billion), up Rs 1,000 crore (Rs 10 billion) during the second quarter of

the financial year. It aims to cut debt to Rs 19,000 crore (Rs 190 billion) from 19,500 crore (Rs 195 billion) by the end of this financial year and to Rs 10,000 crore (Rs 100 billion) by 2013 through the sale of its non-core assets. DLF has also announced divesting its entire stake in Galaxy Mercantile Ltd, a JV between DLF Home Developers Ltd and Infrastructure Development Finance Company Ltd. The latter will buy the entire stake for Rs 450 crore (Rs 4.5 billion). It is also likely to conclude the Aman resort deal by early 2012. The company has got final bids from four to five companies and bankers are close to finalizing the deal. It would offload its stake in the chain, while retaining the Delhi Aman property. Khazanah, the Malaysian government's wealth fund, is being seen as the most likely buyer. Other prominent bidders include Kingdom Holdings, the company which owns the Four Seasons Hotel, and a Chinese hospitality group, it is learnt.

India based firm plans foray into Dubai

ndia-based Pacific Real Estate Development has announced its first property venture in Dubai, the 28-storey luxury tower at Tecom Media City. Announcing the launch, Parvez Khan, founder, Pacific Real Estate Development said, "We are very positive about the real estate market here. Everywhere in the world, the business environment is currently going through upheavals, but we are confident that Dubai will remain a key investment hub for serious property investors who will appreciate the value of a Pacific Waterfront property." According to Khan, Pacific Real Estate is sufficiently capitalized and has the necessary resources to complete projects it has started. "By 2015, we would have completed our first luxury property development in Dubai, and it will be first of many projects we envision for this market and the rest of the

Mena region as newer projects on tourism, education and healthcare are announced and completed which will open up anew a demand for residential and commercial development," he stated. "It makes more business sense to position ourselves now than later when the market is bound to pick up again," Khan said. In addition to its plush amenities and sophisticated design, Pacific Waterfront will be a mixed use luxury development that utilizes solar technology for most of the buildings energy requirements. "It will be the lowest maintenance residential luxury apartment to invest in. Everything starting from the walkways to the gyms to the lights in the building will be maintained through solar technology hence the residents will not be paying a heavy maintenance that they do otherwise for most constructions here or in India," Khan explained.

Horoscope

December 16, 2011

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Your Weekly Future by Pandit Parashar

DECEMBER 16TH - DECEMBER 22TH (November 23 to December 22)

(March 21 to April 20)

ou will be just lucky and overcome a difficult situation. People trying for another job will be called for second interview and immediately offered the position. News you had been waiting for about a child will come during the week and every one will be happy. It looks like a fortunate week as far as the money matters are concerned.

ou will regain control over situation getting out of hands in per sonal life. Bank balance will start growing once again. People in business will have better sales. Do more research before you make the commitment. A colleague will try to make things little tough for you at work but support from boss will calm him down.

(April 21 to May 20)

(December 22 to January 19)

lanets may cause some temporary trouble in stomach region. You will find like minded people for your venture. It will be another good week for people working as brokers. Try to cut down on nicotine or caffeine intake. Reply or clearance from a government agency will open new doors. You will get to enjoy company of some old friends also.

ou may face some obstructions in carrying out your plans. You may call an old trusted person to seek advice and some insight. People involved in research and development work will see ultimate success. Health of an elderly family member will cause some concerns. You will be successful in disposing off items gathering dust.

(May 21 to June 20)

(January 20 to February 18)

t will be a favorable week for all money matters. Money may come through stocks also. Property deal may also finalize. You will make some interesting person during the course of a trip. Right advice is just a phone call away. Timely action can take you to a different level in career. You will call an old friend living in another state.

ou will do lots of work in around your property. Time spent on computer and writing mail etc will get quick results. You will continue to make steady progress in career and will help many with your expertise. Some of you will be getting ready to move to another home in near future. You will think how to help a needy relative.

(February 19 to March 20)

(June 21 to July 22)

ettlement possible in ongoing litigation. You will have your eyes set on a nice piece of property with greenery or water around. There can be some changes in partnership setup as one of the partner in venture may decide to move out. Some one close will call to seek your expert advice on an important issue.

ou will earn name and respect in social as well as professional circle. Soft planet in second will give several chance to make easy money. Ventures started in partnership will take off and results will be better than earlier expected. You will plan a short trip with children. You will become more religious and do some charity also.

Wendi, a born adventurer, hates being tied down

(July 23 to August 22)

t will be a very fruitful week. Money can go on some repairs or constructive work. Mind will stay cheerful and the trip will be very relaxing. You will see new clients and business will improve considerably. Child will get admission out of state but in college of his choice. You will benefit from some one tall and slight fair color. (August 23 to September 22)

void any impulsive actions and be careful when on the road. There will be some more interesting developments in career and another contract you had been working on could be finally in your pockets. Some of you may be packing to move to another place. You may invite few very important people at your place for dinner. (September 23 to October 22)

ou may need to pour in more money into your projects. You may not gain in terms of money but confidence level will shoot up. Some courageous actions will take you closer to your goals. You may replace some electronic item in the house. You will be calling overseas more frequently. You will hear encouraging words at the meeting. (October 23 to November 22)

roperty deal can finalize this week. You may make some plans with friends at work. Value of your stocks will appreciate and you may cash some of them. Those applying for a job will be called for second interview. You will learn new things from competitors and change your strategy. Close relative will call after long interval.

f the Pieman hadn't attempted to lob a - having no thought for her own safety shaving foam soufflĂŠ in Rupert and diving in single-handed to save the Murdoch's face, and if his wife Wendi day. hadn't come to his resA quick look at cue so quickly, the her Solar Chart reconfrontation in Britveals that Wendi is ish Parliament with a Sagittarian, with the Culture Select Mercury conjunct Committee would her Sun. She is a have been stale born adventurer, news. Rupert, his traveler and scholar son James denied who loves to see knowing anything the world and hates about anything that being tied down. mattered. Yet someShe is also very thing was festering sporting and atheven if no one could letic. So why is she put their finger on with Rupert? She Wendi exactly where it loves power and has originated, or who her natal Venus in was responsible for it. Capricorn trine Pluto in Virgo. Venus However, due to the genius of 'failed in Capricorn instinctively know who comic' Johnnie Marbles as the papers they should be friends with and how described him, things brightened up to get on in life by getting close to the considerably. This episode was the right people. You could almost say she highlight, mainly because Wendi, who is addicted to powerful people - and prefers to stay in the background, dis- the prestige of being the wife of the played the skills of a true Ninja fighter world's biggest media person.

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

925-833-7170

website: www.parashar.com

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Philosophy

December 16, 2011

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did not think in terms of men and women. She would claim that she had yet to encounter a man, and that is why she went about naked. But when she saw Shah Hamdan, she hid herself saying: "I saw a man, I saw a man." Why is Lalla so famous in Kashmir? She was illiterate, but she was wise. Her sayings are full of wisdom.

In these sayings, she dealt with everything from life, yoga, and God to dharma and atma. Her riddles are on the lips of every Kashmiri. The exact date of Lalla's death is not known. It is claimed that she died in Bijbehara. People like Granny Lalla do not really die. Lal Ded is alive in her sayings and in the hearts of Kashmiris.

al Ded was born in 1355 in Pandrethan to a Kashmiri Pandit family. Even as a child, Lalla was wise and religiousminded. When Lalla was twelve years old, she was married. Her inlaws lived in Pampur. The in-laws gave her the name Padmavati. Her mother-in-law was very cruel. She never gave her any peace. It is claimed that her mother-inlaw used to put a stone on Lalla's plate. She would then cover the stone with rice so that people would get the impression that Lalla had a plateful of rice. Lalla would remain half fed, but would never complain about her mother-in-law. Her father-in-law was a good man and he was kind to her, but her mother-in-law made her miserable. She would even speak ill of Lalla to her husband.

Poor Lalla knew no happiness either with her husband or with her mother-in-law. When Lalla was twenty-six she renounced the family and became a devotee of Shiva. Like a mad person, she would go around naked. She became a disciple of Sidh Srikanth. She would only keep the company of sadhus and pirs. She

Sayings of Lal Ded:

mine eyes, Searching wide, and seeking nights and days, Lo' I beheld the Truthful One, the Wise, Here in mine own House to fill my gaze. *** Holy books will disappear, and then only the mystic formula will remain. When the mystic formula departed, naught but mind was left. When the mind disappeared

naught was left anywhere, And a voice became merged within the Void. *** You are the heaven and You are the earth, You are the day and You are the night, You are all pervading air, You are the sacred offering of rice and flowers and of water; You are Yourself all in all, What can I offer You? With a thin rope of untwisted

thread Tow I ever my boat o'er the sea. Will God hear the prayers that I have said? Will he safely over carry me? Water in a cup of unbaked clay, Whirling and wasting, my dizzy soul Slowly is filling to melt away. Oh, how fain would I reach my goal.

she closes them and the universe is manifested within her. The sacred tremor, the very place of creation and return, is completely limitless because its nature is formless. Even within duality, the tantrika goes straight to the non-dual source, because pure subjectivity always resides immersed within his own nature.

discovers this essential sacred tremor of consciousness escapes the dim confusion of limited desire. Liberated in this way from the multiplicity of impulses tied to the ego, he experiences the supreme state. Then the heart realizes that the true innate nature is both the universal agent and the subjectivity

found absence from the world. Actor and action are united, but when action is dissolved by abandoning the fruits of the act, the very dynamic that is tied to the ego exhausts itself, and the tantrika who is absorbed in this profound contemplation discovers the divine tremor liberated from its ties to the ego. The profound nature of action is thus

By a way I came, but I went not by the way. While I was yet on the midst of the embankment with its crazy bridges, the day failed for me. I looked within my poke, and not a cowry came to hand. What shall I give for the ferry-fee? *** Passionate, with longing in

he Spandakarika, or 'Song of the Sacred Tremor' is one of the most important Tantric texts in the tradition of Kashmiri Shaivism. The oldest masters of Spandakarika viewed everything in the universe, including matter, as consciousness and created a yoga practice in accordance with this realization. The sacred dance of Yoga Spandakarika, called Tandava, is extremely subtle and difficult, requiring thousands of hours of practice to master, yet it surpasses any other physical practice, allowing the practitioner to touch the divine inner pulse. Once its third stage has been mastered, the yogi or yogini is able to manifest the dance of Shiva in space, a tradition visible in the statuary of Tantric temples in India and Tibet. Energy is no longer contracted by the perception of duality, and the mind and body become unbounded, forming a sphere that contains all that was formerly outside. Here are some excerpts from Spandakarika: The venerated Shankari (Shakti), source of energy, opens her eyes and the universe is reabsorbed in pure consciousness;

Beheld the Truthful One in mine own House She would claim that she had yet to encounter a man, and that is why she went about naked. But when she saw Shah Hamdan, she hid herself saying: "I saw a man, I saw a man."

Lal Ded

Viewing everything in universe as consciousness Even within duality, the tantrika goes straight to the non-dual source, because pure subjectivity always resides immersed within his own nature All the relative notions tied to the ego rediscover their peaceful source deeply buried under all the different states. In the absolute sense, pleasure and suffering, subject and object, are nothing other than the space of profound consciousness. To grasp this fundamental truth is to see absolute freedom everywhere. Thus, the activity of the senses itself dwells in this fundamental freedom and pours forth from it. Therefore, the person who re-

that perceives the world. Thus immersed in understanding, it knows and acts according to its desire. How can this wonder-filled tantrika, who always comes back to his own fundamental nature as the source of all manifestation, be subject to transmigration? If the void could be an object of contemplation, where would the consciousness that perceives it be? Therefore, consider contemplation of the vacuity as an artifice of a nature analogous to that of a pro-

revealed, and he who has interiorized the movement of desire no longer knows dissolution. He cannot cease to exist because he has returned to the profound source. The awakened tantrika realizes this continuous sacred tremor throughout the three states. Shiva is then in loving union with Shakti in the form of knowledge and its object, whereas everywhere else he is manifested as pure consciousness.

Many have died; you also will die. The drum of death is being beaten. The world has fallen in love with a dream. Only sayings of the wise will remain. -Kabir All differences in this world are of degree, and not of kind, because oneness is the secret of everything. -Swami Vivekananda Loud speech, profusion of words, and possessing skillfulness in expounding scriptures are merely for the enjoyment of the learned. They do not lead to liberation. -Shankaracharya A prudent question is one-half of wisdom. -Francis Bacon Who is a fool? He who thinks that the world has any regard for him and is really in need of him. -Swami Krishnananda Wealth is the mother of evil. Sense pleasure is the source of pain. Misfortune is the best fortune. Rejection by all is victory!! -Yoga Vasistha Give, and it shall be given to you. For whatever measure you deal out to others, it will be dealt to you in return. -Bible

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December 16, 2011

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Myanmar: How real is the change? MEDHA CHATURVEDI

section within the international community believes there has been a series of positive changes in every plausible field in Myanmar. Is the government in Myanmar finally having a change of heart? What are these changes and how far will they succeed in repairing Myanmar's reputation internationally? Will they bring any positive changes to the economy of the country? Are these changes just perception due to a freer media in Myanmar? Most importantly, will the people of Myanmar gain from these changes? President Thein Sein, with his efforts to make Myanmar more liberal and bring much needed political and social reforms to the country, is now being seen as a catalyst for a brighter future. The new liberal policies are aimed at not only drawing out the country politically and socially, but also improving its situation economically. What are the economic developments? An interesting development has been the acceptance of Myanmar's candidature for the Chair of ASEAN in 2014 by all member countries. This brings the hope for a new surge of liberal reforms in rejuvenating Myanmar's economy which is presently hanging on tenterhooks. A leadership role in a regional grouping which includes the two regional giants, India and China, can be a big plus for Myanmar's foreign policy as well. Myanmar's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is almost US$ 43 billion, and is growing at the rate of 2.9 per cent. This is the lowest growth rate in the Greater Mekong Sub-Region and in sharp contrast to its post independence prospects when Myanmar was the largest rice exporter in the world and produced 75 per cent of the world's total teak production. Myanmar's economy started dwindling after the military takeover by Gen Ne Win in 1962 and his subsequent policy of 'Burmanization' which led to a near-closed economy. However, in recent months, there has been an upward swing in Myanmar's overall economic situation with its currency, the Kyat, becoming 25 per cent stronger due to capital inflows since the beginning of 2010. It is likely to become even stronger with the relaxation of economic restrictions on the country in the coming few months. Foreign investments to the country have also increased substantially since 2009, and with more trading partners and less trade restrictions to and from

Myanmar, commerce is expected to improve. Moreover, President Sein's government has been taking steps to reach a compromise on the decades-long ethnic conflict in the most mineral and natural resourcerich areas of the country. This signals the coming of a better security environment for protection of vital investment establishments. A sign of better economic con-

which will replace the indiscriminate censoring of every "song, book, cartoon and planned piece of art." He further added that the new law will "reflect guaranteed freedom of expression, so, no censorship", but, there will be a more open monitoring system in place for censoring objectionable cultural and religious matter. Restrictions on some important news websites and channels have

India Post Muzzling media

A Mynamar's Aung San Suu Kyi (L) with President Thein Sein at the Presidential Palace in Naypyitaw.

ditions and banking reforms can also be judged by the installation of modern ATMs in the cities of the country at a rapid pace. Also, under the incumbent government, Myanmar's factory workers can now form unions. This is the first time that such an allowance has been made to them since 1962 and has been widely welcomed. This would give them a chance to liaise with the senior management of the industries and put forward their de-

Foreign investments to the country have also increased substantially since 2009, and with more trading partners and less trade restrictions to and from Myanmar, commerce is expected to improve mands, thereby assisting in the improvement of their wage structure and standard of living. Freedom of speech and expression? On the freedom of speech and expression, there are indications of a freer media. In fact, Ko Ko Hlaing, chief political adviser to President Thein Sein, was quoted in a Reuters article saying that a new media law is in the making

also been lifted, which were banned in 2007 at the time of the Buddhist monks' protests in Yangon. Even parliamentary proceedings are now being recorded and some portions are being aired on the national network. Aung San Suu Kyi herself hosted a film festival in Yangon, titled 'Films of Freedom' and was interviewed by a leading business magazine which was carried as a two-page special. It was not censored much and was widely circulated. The government has also set up a Human Rights Commission, and the parliament has approved a law giving people the right to protest in a controlled environment. The positive attitude of the civilian government in Myanmar appears to be the harbinger of political, social and economic upliftment, and there is sufficient optimism to see these developments as credible because they are being initiated from within the country. Myanmar's media is opening up, giving way to more detailed reports emerging from even the frontier regions. As a result, the international community is able to see and analyze the developing situation in Myanmar more accurately. With the economy also looking up, the country's prospects may be improving. The isolation that Myanmar has faced for decades may be on its way out, giving way to the hope for a stable, democratic system. The writer is Research Officer, IPCS

t a time when the Indian government is facing a number of pressing problems of great consequence to the common man, it has decided to give priority to screening offensive content on internet sites like the Facebook, Twitter and Google. To prove himself more loyal to the king - queen in this instance - Indian Minister for IT Kapil Sibal has sworn to weed out content maligning Sonia Gandhi, the supremo of Congress party, to whom he owes his present job. To make the issue look more representative he has clubbed it with insults to the Prime Minister and "derogatory, blasphemous and incendiary" and communally inflammable material. The social networking websites refused to accept his plea that they should evolve a mechanism on their own to ensure that such content is removed as soon as they get to know of it. Following their refusal, Sibal promised the government will frame rules that ensure "blasphemous" material is removed from the internet. First of all, there can be no agreement ever on what is objectionable. There will always be some group or the other to which some content will be offensive. And we all know what is objectionable to a government. Does the Indian government want to behave as boarding school headmaster controlling adult human beings living in a free country? Looks like the shades of emergency cannot be removed from the psyche of Congressmen. Instead of being alive to the people's problems and working to get the job done, they wish to control all adverse reaction to the government's functioning. Sibal's move has found support from many in the present government. Their itch to control and muzzle the media arose following the bashing they got on live media during the "India Against Corruption" Anna Hazare movement. They believe that crores of Indian people got attracted to the movement because of the media coverage. So before anything similar happens again, they want to muzzle the press and the visual media. Even if the government wants to censor stuff appearing on the Net, it cannot do it. It is technically not feasible. And if tried it will be too expensive. In fact, if the government tried, it will find it has given fuel to further such "offensive" material. Already the web is flooded with jokes and unfriendly remarks about Sibal. Try as he might they would be too many for even Sibal to read, what to say about controlling. It is a mystery why this government wants to emulate repressive societies like China, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Having lost its credibility, any governance move it makes collapses into a heap, like the recent decision of introducing FDI in retail. It could not even persuade its allies to support the move. Sheepishly, it has decided to put the plan on hold. It doesn't have the numbers to get arbitrary decisions approved. But notice the alacrity with which the government and its ministers jump to take extraordinary actions to protect Sonia Gandhi and her family from any criticism. There are genuine concerns as expressed by Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah about what he calls "dangerous and inflammatory" content on social networking sites. He has called for those exercising the right to freedom of speech to also take the responsibility that comes with it. But he is strongly against media censorship. The good sense to exercising control and respecting the freedom of others will have to come from the within the society itself. Any move to control that expression will only be counterproductive, as the government would find out if it proceeds with its controlling zeal.

December 16, 2011

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