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Mamata cracks CPM citadel in West Bengal Details on page 35

Indian team in US to question Headley Details on page 8

NEW YORK • WASHINGTON D.C. • CHICAGO • ATLANTA • CALIFORNIA

VOL 15, No. 822

June 11, 2010

50¢

Periodical Postage

PARTIAL RETREAT ON PASSPORT PENALTY Community still not satisfied

SRIREKHA CHAKRAVARTY India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Owing to intense pressure from the Indian American community, the Government of India has with immediate effect waived the fees for obtaining Renunciation/Surrender Certificate from naturalized American citizens of Indian origin for all those who acquired

their American citizenship before June 1, 2010.

Only a miscellaneous service fee of $20 will be charged for surrender of passport for cancellation and no penalties will be charged.

Indian passport holders who acquire US/foreign citizenships on or after June 1, 2010 will, however, be required to pay the fees of $175 for obtaining Renunciation/ Surrender certificate.

Details on page 6

Swarnim Gujarat celebrated in Chicago Details on page 13

‘Consult Diaspora before imposing new rules’ Details on page 7

FIA to press for scrapping $20 fee too Details on page 7

Indian American sentenced for fake test reports Another affair charge against Nikki Haley

Details on page 8

USIBC launches new education initiative in India

Details on page 6

US presses Pak for passenger profiling

Details on page 11

US Strategy seeks greater role for India

Details on page 12

Shortage forces UK to recruit Indian doctors

Minister of Human Resource Development Kapil Sibal meeting US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Washington, DC on June 2

External Affairs Minister S M Krishna at the opening ceremony of US India Business Council 35th Annual Gala event in Washington DC on June 2. Report on page 10

Major US-India education exchange in the offing

This week’s question

Should all passport penalties be scrapped?

Last week’s result

Do you agree with smear Nikki Haley campaign?

YES 8%

NO 92%

Bollywood ---------------------- 28-29 Community Post -------------- 13-23

India Post News Service

survey@indiapost.com

CONTENTS Classifieds ------------------------- 46

Details on page 12

INDIA POST SURVEY

Details on page 8

Date Book -------------------------- 48

NEW YORK: Presidents and Deans of many US Universities met India's Minister for Human Resource Development, Kapil Sibal June 1, in Washington DC and expressed their desire to set up higher education institutions in India. They also appreciated the process of academic reforms initiated in India and said that they would like to be active partners in the growth story of Indian education.

Details on page 7

Edit Page --------------------------- 49 HealthScience Post --------- 38-39 Horoscope ------------------------- 25 Immigration Post ------------- 40-42 Life Style ----------------------- 30-31 Philosophy ------------------------- 47 Publisherís Diary ------------------ 4

Minister of Human Resource Development Kapil Sibal meeting with US Secretary of Education Arne Duncan in Washington, DC on June 2

Certified by “CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL Readership 117,765”

Real Estate ------------------------ 43 TechBiz Post ------------------- 44-45 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 32-34

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June 11, 2010

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Publisher’s Diary

I

t does appear to be a big deal - the Indo-US Strategic Dialogue that was set in motion in Washington DC last week. Think tanks, political pundits, diplomatic circles in both countries are projecting this exchange as the next big step in a non-political institutionalization of Indo-US cooperation that is likely to impact the lives of generations to come in both countries.

That is indeed a big deal considering President Barack Obama himself called up Prime Minister Manmohan Singh days before the dialogue began, to set the tone for the discussions.

That same week, Under Secretary William Burns, said, "Never has there been a moment when India and America mattered more to one another. And never has there been a moment when partnership between India and America mattered more to the rest of the globe."

Although radically transformed over the past decade, both sides are acutely aware of the fact that the fabric of cooperation between the two countries is not without its creases. Burns, who has been in the thick of the transformative process, and calls Indo-US relations as "one of those rarest of Washington species, a genuinely bipartisan policy priority", admits the relations will not be neat or easy and that it would take a lot of time and effort.

Political distrust, I would say, would be the biggest hurdle to conquer. There would always be the dynamic of each country's bi-lateral relations with other countries like the US-Pakistan equation or Indo-Russian equation will always have Washington DC and New Delhi holding each other at arms length distance.

The trick is in seizing the moment while the atmosphere is conducive - leaders who respect each other, issue of terrorism that affects both, areas of mutual need and benefit such as clean energy, non-proliferation, education and trade - all of which elevate the relations to a different level.

Like Burns says, if we get this moment right, Indians and Americans can have an enormously positive influence on each other's future, and on the course of the new century unfolding before us.

I agree.

Romesh K Japra rkjapra@indiapost.com

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HIGHLIGHTS Bollywood: Kat is willing Katrina Kaif is open to the idea of marriage but is waiting for the right man to step into her life.

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Cover Story: Partial retreat The Government of India has waived the fees for obtaining Passport Surrender Certificate from Indian Americans.

Community: Swarnim Gujarat

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13

For one day at least, Indian Americans felt they are in Gujarat enjoying Gujarati Raas Garba, Gujarati songs, Dhokla.

Health: Medical Center The Indian Association of Somerset sponsored and raised $15,000 for the benefit of Somerset Medical Center.

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Life Style: Rahman Concert The A.R. Rahman Jai Ho Concert produced by Deepak Gattani & Rapport will kick off on June 11 in New York.

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Nano in Gujarat

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The roll out of "people's car" Nano from the Sanand plant in Gujarat has attracted global attention.

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Travel: Kailash-Mansarovar The sacred Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake constitute one of the grandest of Himalayan beauty spots.

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Partial retreat on passport penalty Community still not satisfied SRIREKHA CHAKRAVARTY India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Owing to intense pressure from the Indian American community, the Government of India has with immediate effect waived the fees for obtaining Renunciation/Surrender Certificate from naturalized American citizens of Indian origin for all those who acquired their American citizenship before June 1, 2010.

Only a miscellaneous service fee of $20 will be charged for surrender of passport for cancellation and no penalties will be charged.

Indian passport holders who acquire US/foreign citizenships on or after June 1, 2010 will, however, be required to pay the fees of $175 for obtaining Renunciation/Surrender certificate.

For all those who already paid the fees and penalties prior to June 1, there would be no refunds.

Also, for people who already have a Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) Card or an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card, the requirement of a surrender certificate will not be insisted upon although they are expected to voluntarily do it.

In the last couple of weeks, there was a collective outcry from the Indian American community in the form of phone calls, emails, online petitions and protest demonstrations outside the Indian Consulate in New York over the past few weeks following a sudden imposition of a $175 fee and heavy penalties for all those Indian origin foreign citizens who failed to surrender their Indian passports.

Families who have had to travel on emergency or required to obtain some other consular service had to pay up thousands for dollars in fees and penalties to obtain surrender certificates which led to panic among others even as rumors began circulating that immigration authorities as well as airlines were not allowing passengers to fly without the surrender certificates.

Security risk to India At a press conference to make the announcements on June 1, the Consul General of India in New York Prabhu Dayal clarified the reasons why the government of India imposed the new rules, stating that there was large scale misuse of old Indian passports. "It was found that the passports of a number of persons who had taken foreign nationality were using the old passports and in most cases

by persons other than the owners of those passports," Amb. Dayal said. "On some days authorities in India found up to 50 people in a day traveling on other people's passports and those invariably were people who had become foreign citizens."

"It's a very serious security issue for India," Amb. Dayal continued. "People who had Indian passports should have acted

For people who already have a Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) Card or an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card, the requirement of a surrender certificate will not be insisted upon although they are expected to voluntarily do it more responsibly but perhaps out of sheer neglect on their part, the passports have landed into the wrong hands."

Several people continued to travel to India on their Indian passports even after acquiring American citizenship, Amb. Dayal said, pointing out that an elected official of Indian origin in New York had himself admitted in an email to him, to have traveled to India on his old Indian passport even though he was a naturalized American citizen.

Amb. Dayal agreed that while not everybody was guilty of bad

practices, the few bad fish in the community were putting the others to hardship.

He said several community organizations had written to him that the $175 fee was not affordable for ordinary families - a message which he said he had conveyed to the government of India. He however added that in recent times India's security had been threatened like never before and this fee will serve as a deterrent to people to act more responsibly.

Consulate officials said that the onus of surrendering the Indian passport once a person obtains foreign citizenship was on the individual and not the government agencies.

The press conference turned into a Town Hall of sorts when several representatives of some community organizations joined in to highlight various issues with regard to travel to India. The FIA members said $175 fee was not acceptable to them even with current effect.

FIA president Nirav Mehta came up with a suggestion that even for those who acquired foreign citizenship after June 1, only a $20 miscellaneous service charge should be applied with a stipulation that those who fail to obtain the surrender certificate within 90 days of giving up Indian citizenship, would be charged $175.

Another recent government of India rule that allows PIOs only a five year entry permit for travel to India as against a 10-year multiple entry visa was also brought up by the community members.

The Consul General took the initiative then to propose a monthly meeting on the Consulate premises with representatives of community, in the presence of the media, to discuss and resolve issues.

FIA continues movement The Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) -Tri-state, which was to hold a huge protest demonstration outside the Consulate,

The protest rallies planned in New York and Washington have been postponed till further notice to facilitate ongoing dialogues with Consul General Prabhu Dayal and his staff to resolve other ambiguity in visa related issues, it said postponed its agitation following the latest announcement.

In view of partial victory, the rally before the Indian Consulate scheduled to be organized by FIA on June 4, 2010 has been postponed, said Nirav Mehta, president of FIA, acceding to a request from the Consul General to reconsider FIA's decision to stage a demonstration.

Calling it a "battle half won" the FIA said it would continue to pressure the government to remove the $175 fee for a surrender certificate even with effect from June 1, 2010.

According to a FIA statement, second part of battle on behalf of the Indian American Community still needs to be fought for the following issues: * Indian passport holders who acquire US citizenships on or after June 1, 2010 will still be required to pay the fees of US$ 175/ - for obtaining Renunciation/Surrender certificate; * Introduction of entry visa for PIOs with only five years validity and three times fees in lieu of a 10-year-tourist visa and * Refund of fees and penalties to those who had already paid following the new order from the Consulate.

FIA is working on a memorandum on these issues to be submitted to the Indian Prime Minister, Home Minister, External Affairs Minister, and Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs and Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha urging the government to discuss and debate all the matters affecting NRIs/PIOs in Parliament.

The protest rallies planned in New York and Washington have been postponed till further notice to facilitate ongoing dialogues with Consul General Prabhu Dayal and his staff to resolve other ambiguity in visa related issues, it said.

GOPIO GOPIO International, which had gathered close to 30,000 signatures in a week through an online petition demanding the removal of the retroactive effect of the fee and penalties for obtaining a surrender certificate, welcomed the waiver announcement.

Another affair charge against Nikki Haley WASHINGTON: In more trouble for Indian- American Nikki Haley, who hopes to become South Carolina's first woman Governor, a political lobbyist has claimed he had a tryst with the Republican candidate, who is already facing allegations of an extra-marital affair.

However, 38-year-old Haley's campaign rejected it as "a false and outrageous desperate attack from a losing candidate's paid campaign consultant in the final week of the race."

Larry Marchant, a familiar face at the South Carolina State House who has lobbied legislators on behalf of the insurance industry and the state Chamber of Commerce, told CNN he had a "one night, one night only sexual rela-

tionship" with Haley at a school choice conference held in Salt Lake City, Utah in 2008.

However, he did not have any specific evidence to prove his

campaign rejected Marchant's allegation as "a false and outrageous desperate attack from a losing candidate's paid campaign consultant in the final week of the

‘As Nikki Haley rises in the polls, the good old boys in Columbia see their taxpayer-funded fraternity party coming crumbling down, and they will say or do anything to hold onto their power’

point.

He is the second individual to make such a claim, both of which has been dismissed by Haley's campaign. In fact, her popularity rating has increased.

CNN reported that Haley's

race."

"As Nikki Haley rises in the polls, the good old boys in Columbia see their taxpayer-funded fraternity party coming crumbling down, and they will say or do anything to hold onto their

power," Haley campaign manager Tim Pearson was quoted as saying.

The 38-year-old mother of two, whose husband is a US Army reserves officer, has been hit by allegations that she had a "physical" relationship with commentator Will Folks.

If elected, she would be only the second governor of Indian origin in the US after Louisiana's Bobby Jindal.

Meanwhile, the Republican Indian Committee has endorsed the candidature Nikki Haley.

Haley, whose parents hail from Amritsar in Punjab, is a current member of the South Carolina House of Representatives and is strongly backed by Republican heavyweight Sarah Palin.-PTI

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June 11, 2010

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Major US-India education exchange in the offing India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Presidents and Deans of many US Universities met India's Minister for Human Resource Development, Kapil Sibal June 1, in Washington DC and expressed their desire to set up higher education institutions in India. They also appreciated the process of academic reforms initiated in India and said that they would like to be active partners in the growth story of Indian education.

The minister is in the nation's capital to participate in the deliberations of the US-India Strategic Dialogue June 1-4.

Virginia Tech Dr. Charles Steger, President of Virginia Tech., along with senior academics of Virginia Tech told the minister that they wish to set up facility near Chennai for research in three broad areas, namely Bio-informatics, Nanosciences and Transportation studies. They also want to start select masters' and Doctoral degree programs.

The team of Virginia Tech, an important technical institution in USA, appeared enthused by the recent introduction of the legisla-

tion on Foreign Education Providers in the Parliament and said that apart from starting own institution in India, they would also like to have collaboration with Indian institutions in other fields including medical education.

Sibal satisfied their many queries on accreditation and other

Georgetown University Dr Spiros Demolitsas, Senior Vice President and CEO of Georgetown University along with his team briefed Sibal about the progress made since the minister's last visit to the US end of Oct 2009.

Dr Demolitsas informed that they are looking at institutions and

Replying to questions, Sibal said that just like outsourcing of manufacturing, time has come in a globalised economy for education to be delivered at the door step of the student( in India) rather than students having to travel abroad to get the same regulatory requirements and suggested that with India's sustained growth rate of 8 to 9%, there is tremendous scope of development in urban studies, urban housing and transportation, architecture and planning and sustainable development. The challenge is to find solutions for problems in India which can be replicated globally, he said.

mutual interest are identified.

American University Dr Louis Goodman, Dean School of International Service, American University told Sibal his School of International Studies(SIS) has already signed a MoU with Manipal University to develop a program in national se-

Kapil Sibal with President of Virginia Tech Dr. Charles W. Steger in Washington, DC on June 1

projects aiming at social science research and suggested two areas- professional and executive development for policy makers and business leaders as also research in emerging areas of climate change, sustainability etc. requiring inter-disciplinary approach. Sibal asked them to send a concept note so that areas of

curity studies. School of International Studies (SIS), which is the largest school of international studies in the world with over 3000 students and 200 faculty, also expressed keen interest in establishment of an Indian Institute at American University which will be dedicated to Indian Studies. As per their proposal, this institute will be in-

ter-disciplinary in approach, focusing on such areas as foreign policy and national security, science and technology policy, sustainable development, etc.

Council on Foreign Relations Addressing the Council on Foreign Relations the same day, Sibal gave his vision of education reforms as also the strategic partnership between India and USA. He said India's aims to increase its GER in higher education from the present 12.4% to 30% by the year 2020 but even after achieving a GER of 30%, there would be 150 million youth who would need to be skilled. Thus, programs for development of higher education and skill development will have to move parallel and would require private participation at large scale, he said.

Replying to questions, Sibal said that just like outsourcing of manufacturing, time has come in a globalised economy for education to be delivered at the door step of the student( in India) rather than students having to travel abroad to get the same. "It is thus mutually beneficial to both India and USA to work together to set up educational institutions in India to train skilled manpower of the 21st century," he said.

FIA to press for scrapping all unwarranted charges India Post News Service

CHICAGO: The Federation of Indian Associations( FIA) had waged a virtual war on this capricious decision of the Indian government to charge $175 renunciation fee for not surrendering the Indian passport while getting naturalized US citizen. Sunny Gabhawala, FIA President, had convened a meeting here last week and announced sending a deputation to India led by Iftekhar Shareef, the first Indian American to acquire dual citizenship.

He said that FIA is the largest umbrella organization of Indian Americans and it would fail in its duty if it did not "awaken" the Indian bureaucrats over this foolish step charging retroactively the renunciation fee. He told this newspaper that FIA now welcomes the government decision to scrap this decision but still wondered why even a processing fee of $20. FIA would continue to press for all unwarranted charge on Indians here.

Reacting sharply to the decision to even charge $ 20, community leader and well known travel agent Peter Kothari said "I still oppose the collection of $ 20. Why should a person wanting to visit his motherland pay this money?

The government and the Consulate must come out with an unconditional apology and refund the money taken from the people. If the government is doing this for security reason then why was the government not able to stop people like Abu Salem and Monica Bedi from acquiring five different passports in different names The Consulate must cancel the passport and put a remark on their computer and the matter ends there. I will still organize the community and urge the government to withdraw these unwarranted fees which is a strain on a common man's budget."

Besides this Kothari also said "what about the problem that the people had to face during the last three weeks when the "Tughlaki" decision was in force. The government and the Consulate must come out with an unconditional apology and refund the money

CG Prabhu Dayal

taken from the people. If the government is doing this for security reason then why was the govern-

ment not able to stop people like Abu Salem and Monica Bedi from acquiring five different passports in different names. It is time the UPA government set its house in order and stop harassing genuine people."

According to Rajendra Shah, a businessman, "the Indian consulate in New York is as it is over worked and unfriendly then where was the need to add more burden on it by the cumbersome cancellation procedure. The decision was more a brain child of an "idle bureaucrat" and it is good that better sense prevailed on the government and the `Tughlaki' decision was withdrawn".

Consult Diaspora before imposing new rules: USINPAC India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Urging the Indian government to consult the Diaspora before imposing rules that impact them, has The US India Political Action Committee (USINPAC) has asked the Government of India to review several of its existing laws that adversely affect the 29 million People of Indian Origin (PIO) across the world.

Sanjay Puri, the Chairman of USINPAC, expressed concern and said that a recently introduced law prohibits former Indian citizens, holding multiple entry tourist visas, from revisiting the country for 60 days after their departure from India. "Security is a very big concern for India and we understand that the Government of India has to institute measures to protect its homeland. The Indian Diaspora

has been a key part of the Indian fabric and better communication and consultation is necessary before the enactment of rules that could adversely impact them," he said.

Pointing out another law regarding surrendering Indian passports by PIOs, Puri said that, "As dual nationality is not allowed by India, an Indian passport should automatically be considered void once an Indian citizen accepts a

foreign passport. To require such persons to visit the issue retrospectively after several years is both futile and insensitive."

Kersy Dastur, a senior member of USINPAC, expressed his disappointment at the apparent lack of advance notice by the Indian government before introducing this rule. "Most people do not know that they must surrender their Indian passports when they become US citizens."

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Indian American sentenced for fake concrete test reports India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Having survived two attempts at committing suicide since his indictment, V. Reddy Kancharla, a former president of a prominent concrete testing company in New York last week faced a Manhattan judge who sentenced him to seven to 21 years of prison time and $225,000 in fines for fudging tests on iconic New York City structures including the Freedom Tower at Ground Zero, the Yankee Stadium and the 2nd Avenue subway.

The judge awarded the sentence to Kancharla, the former president of Testwell Laboratories, saying he had betrayed the public and his profession with years of lying and fakery.

According to the New York Post, in October 2008, prosecutors accused Kancharla and others at the company of faking concrete mix and strength tests, filing false invoices and creating bogus steel inspection reports, among other offenses. In February, a State Supreme Court jury in Manhattan convicted Kancharla of 15 counts of falsifying business records and related charges. The

company itself was found guilty of 11 charges.

Last week, Justice Edward J. McLaughlin, said Kancharla, a licensed professional engineer, had traded on his good name to deceive others. "A skillful person

Kanhcarla had, since his trial began, attempted to commit suicide twice - the first time in February when he cut his wrist and took sleeping pills, and the second in April, when he tried to hang himself can steal more with a pen and a smile than with a gun," he said.

"When criminals rely on past dealing and the appearance of rectitude, no reason exists for caution."

Justice McLaughlin ordered Kancharla to pay $225,000 in reparations by Dec. 14 or another year

would be added to his prison term.

He also ordered Testwell to pay $1,761,099 in reparations. He said he hoped Kancharla's sentence would be a deterrent to the "variety of schemes and conniving" that he said characterized the building business.

"The construction industry in New York City over the decades has been rife with corruption," Justice McLaughlin said. "The people of New York City are the ultimate victims of the pilfering."

Kanhcarla had, since his trial began, attempted to commit suicide twice - the first time in February when he cut his wrist and took sleeping pills, and the second in April, when he tried to hang himself.

In the court at the time of the sentencing, Kancharla, who wore a neck brace (following his suicide attempt), told the judge: "In retrospect, I should have paid more attention to the concrete mix design program and should have implemented more checks and balances. Despite the jury's verdict, I want you to know that Testwell was not a criminal enterprise, and that I am not a criminal mastermind."

Indian investigators in US to question Headley CHICAGO: A team of Indian investigators has arrived in the US to interrogate for the first time David Coleman Headley, accused of helping Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists carry out the 26/11 Mumbai attacks.

The team comprises officers of the National Investigation Agency and a law officer. This will be for the first time that 49-yearold Pakistani-American Headley will be facing direct questions from Indian investigators since his arrest in October last year.

Besides the Indian team, those expected to be present during the questioning would be Headley's lawyer and an officer of the FBI. The questioning of Headley, currently being held in the federal lock-up Metropolitan Correctional Centre here, is going to revolve around the places he had visited after the Mumbai terror attacks and the people he had remained in touch with during his stay in India.

Sources in India said the fourmember team has prepared questions about his stay in the country especially during March 2009,

his last visit to India.

The travel details of Headley, the globe-trotting prized asset of the LeT, are being sought mainly as investigators believe that this visit may have been to finalize the

The statement of Headley would be recorded by the Special Law Officer of India after which the NIA, which has registered a case against Headley and Pakistani-Canadian national Tahawwur Rana for waging war against the country and Unlawful Activities Prevention (Act), may file a charge sheet against him synchronized terror strikes on Jewish houses located in five cities, the sources said.

They said the government has kept 'backup staff' in readiness if the team needed any assistance.

The statement of Headley would be recorded by the Special Law Officer of India after which the NIA, which has registered a case against Headley and Pakistani-Canadian national Tahawwur Rana for waging war against the country and Unlawful Activities Prevention (Act), may file a charge sheet against him.

Headley, a Chicago-based American with roots in Pakistan, has already confessed to have conducted several reccees as part of the planning for the ghastly attacks that killed 166 people in the country's financial capital in November 2008.

After being arrested in October last year, the 49-year old entered into a plea bargain with the US government in March this year, wherein he offered to be available to foreign investigators through deposition, video conferencing or letters rogatory.

However, further details like for how many hours or days the Indian team would get access to Headley, were not yet given.

Headley's lawyer John Theis said last week he would not com-

US National Security Strategy seeks greater role for India India Post News Service

"Russia has reemerged in the international arena as a strong voice. China and India --the world's two most populous nations -- are becoming more engaged globally.

We will continue to deepen our cooperation with other 21st century centers of influence --including China, India, and Russia -- on the basis of mutual interests and mutual respect. We will also pursue diplomacy and development that supports the emergence of new and successful partners, from the Americas to Africa; from the Middle East to Southeast Asia.

Our ability to advance constructive cooperation is essential to the security and prosperity of specific regions, and to facilitating global cooperation on issues ranging from violent extremism and nuclear proliferation, to cli-

NEW YORK: The United States has re-stated its strategic partnership with India seeking to work together on a broad-based relationship in which India contributes to global counterterrorism efforts, non-proliferation, and helps promote poverty-reduction, education, health, and sustainable agriculture.

President Barack Obama's just released new National Security Strategy states that India's responsible advancement serves as a positive example for developing nations, and provides an opportunity for increased economic, scientific, environmental and security partnership.

"We value India's growing leadership on a wide array of global issues, through groups such as the G20, and will seek to work ‘We value India's growing with India to promote stability in South Asia leadership on a wide array of and elsewhere in the global issues, through groups world," the President such as the G-20, and will said in his remarks speseek to work with India to cific to India.

Other references promote stability in South Asia specifically to India, and elsewhere in the world,’ China and Russia: "We are working to the President said in his rebuild deeper and more effective partnerships marks specific to India with other key centers of influence-including China, India, and Russia, as well as mate change, and global ecoincreasingly influential nations such nomic instability-issues that chalas Brazil, South Africa, and Indone- lenge all nations, but that no one sia-so that we can cooperate on is- nation alone can meet."

Recognizing that different nasues of bilateral and global concern, with the recognition that power, in tions are exerting greater influan interconnected world, is no ence in the world, the President said "advancing our interests will longer a zero sum game.

We are expanding our outreach require expanding spheres of coto emerging nations, particularly operation around the word." Certhose that can be models of re- tain bilateral relationships -- such gional success and stability, from as US relations with China, India, the Americas to Africa to South- and Russia -- will be critical to east Asia. And we will pursue en- building broader cooperation on gagement with hostile nations to areas of mutual interest. And test their intentions, give their emerging powers in every region governments the opportunity to of the world are increasingly aschange course, reach out to their serting themselves, raising opporpeople, and mobilize international tunities for partnership for the United States," he said. coalitions."

ment on any specific details of such an access and "would not be able to share specific information at this point" as to when and for how long the team from India can question Headley.

The team has been sent follow-

ing a communication from the US Justice Department that all concerned officials and the lawyer of Headley will be available during their visit to facilitate their access to Headley. -PTI

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Krishna seeks advanced technology exports from US WASHINGTON: Pitching for a robust two-way trade in advanced technology products with the US, India has said it has offered guarantees that sensitive technology would not be diverted in contravention of US regulations.

On the eve of the first IndiaUS Strategic Dialogue, External Affairs Minister S M Krishna sought strengthening of bilateral cooperation in the field of innovation and advanced technology.

"We have given a number of written assurances that US technology will enjoy the level of security stipulated by the relevant US laws and not be diverted in contravention of US regulations," Krishna said in his address to the 35th anniversary of US India Business Council, attended by top leaders of the American corporate world including the PepsiCo chief Indra Nooyi.

To press his point, he also cited that the End Use Monitoring Agreement has been in place between India and many other countries and asserted that Indian importers had a "100 per cent" compliance record when it comes to safeguarding imported technology.

"I am absolutely confident that the emphasis, going forward, must be on the India US partnership in high technology cooperation and innovation that will generate prosperity for both our peoples in the years to come," he said.

With this background and the trust built as "strategic partners", he said, the two nations should be able to create an environment for "a robust two-way trade in advanced technology products".

Krishna said Indian importers have a 100 per cent compliance record when it comes to safeguarding imported technology.

He said as the Indian economy grows and the US economy regains its momentum following a recessionary phase, the trade and investment figures External Affairs Minister Mr. S.M. Krishna making the can multiply expoinagural address at the 35th Anniversary Summit of the US India Business Council on India US Partnernentially. ship Shaping the future through Innovation in "We must go beWashington, DC on June 2 yond that, make innovation the defining principle of our As India seeks advanced sensitive technology imports from the cooperation, and achieve its true US, Krishna said: "We have been potential," he said.

He noted that Indian and implementing the End-Use Verification Agreement with US part- American businesses have had a ners for years now and have, last proven track record of partnership year, agreed to a Technical Safe- in innovation, including in the guards Agreement in space co- fields of civil nuclear cooperation operation. We also have the End to 'Chandrayaan' and FutureGen. Krishna said the two countries Use Monitoring arrangement for can further build cooperation in defense acquisitions".

tracking monsoons, warning of natural disasters, guiding cultivators and farmers with environment predictability, crossing frontiers in e-learning, e-health and bringing about the e-revolution that one had only imagined a few decades ago.

"While we explore the immense opportunities for collaboration, I would also say that we must explore new designs that reduce resource intensity and have a low

From Right to left Ambassador Meera Shankar, Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao and Indra Nooyi at the USIBC

Strategic Dialogue a milestone in Indo-US ties: Krishna, Roemer WASHINGTON: The US and India have said their Strategic Dialogue is another "milestone" in bilateral relationship with the Obama Administration saying the future is bright and the "sky is the limit" "This week is another milestone in the US-India strategic relationship that has grown in leaps and bounds in the past 10 years," US Ambassador to India Tim Roemer said in his address to the US India Business Council (USIBC) ahead of the Strategic Dialogue here.

Roemer also argued that the US-India bilateral relationship is actually "the good news story" of the decade.

External Affairs Minister S M Krishna and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton are cochairing the first Cabinet-level Indo-US Strategic Dialogue; which according to top US of-

ficials would set the pace for the long-term strategic relationship between the two countries.

Roemer said the "future is bright and the sky is the limit" for the US-India strategic relationship.

"The US-India Strategic Dia-

said.

Krishna said the Strategic Dialogue would be an important occasion for both the countries to set their sights on "new milestones" as they share interests ranging from counter-terrorism to nuclear security to Afghanistan.

He strongly refuted reports that India has not been a priority for Obama Administration.

In fact, he argued that there have been an incredible amount of positive stories this past year as the US-India bilateral relationship is now one of the good news stories of the day logue is a series of high level meetings and events culminating in the June 3 Plenary Session between Secretary Clinton and External Affairs Minister Krishna.

It will highlight the progress in our partnership and identify new areas for collaboration," he

"With an extremely broad range of shared interests, I will join Secretary Hillary Clinton, for the first India-US strategic dialogue at the ministerial level.

That will be an important occasion for us to reflect on the remarkable journey that our two

environmental impact.

"Clean energy, healthcare, agriculture, science and technology, space and security are just some areas on which we are working to step up India-US collaboration," he said.

"I would especially emphasize the importance of innovation that places products and services within reach of the weakest and poorest in our societies," Krishna said.

great democracies have embarked upon, and to set our sights on new milestones," Krishna said.

Roemer said the US Mission in India is ready to work closely with all of you to take advantage of the "limitless opportunities that arise everyday in India.

He strongly refuted reports that India has not been a priority for Obama Administration.

In fact, he argued that there have been an incredible amount of positive stories this past year as the US-India bilateral relationship is now one of the good news stories of the day.

"Actually, it is the good news story of the decade.

Perhaps that was on President Obama's mind when he referred to it as the "indispensable partnership of the 21st century," he noted. -PTI

India for expansion of both UNSC seats UNITED NATIONS: India has demanded expansion in both permanent and non-permanent seats of the UN Security Council, saying increasing the membership only in the non-permanent category or any of its other variants does not constitute reform of the world body.

"There cannot be any reform without expansion in both the categories of membership," Hardeep Singh Puri, India's envoy to the UN, said last night at a meeting convened to discuss the negotiating text for the Security Council reform.

"Equally, expansion only in the non-permanent category or any of its other variants does not constitute reform and is merely the perpetuation of the current inefficiency by the same ineffective means in vogue since 1963," he said.-PTI

India Post 11

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USIBC launches new education initiative in India India Post News Service

NEW YORK: On the occasion of its 35th anniversary, and looking ahead to the global economy of the future, the US-India Business Council (USIBC) announced June 2, the launch of a new initiative aimed at strengthening institutional linkages between academia, industry and NGOs focusing on the elementary, vocational and higher education sectors in both countries.

On the eve of the first-ever USIndia Strategic Dialogue, India’s Union Minister of External Affairs, SM Krishna, US Education Secretary Arne Duncan, India’s Minister of Human Resource Development, Kapil Sibal, and India’s Ambassador to the United States, Meera Shankar, joined hundreds of top business leaders in Washington to participate in the USIBC 35th anniversary deliberations.

“The United States and India must be committed partners in building the workforce of tomorrow, a partnership that will unleash opportunity, spur growth and sustain prosperity not just in our countries but across the global community,” said Harold McGraw III, incoming USIBC Chairman and Chairman, President and CEO of The McGraw-Hill Companies.

“To do this, we must focus on strengthening our educational ties at every level. By working together our two countries can equip the next generation with the education and skills necessary to compete and win in the global economy.”

McGraw gave the keynote address before a packed audience of over 400 US and Indian business, government, and education leaders at USIBC’s 35th Anniversary Summit, entitled “A Pivotal Period in US-India Relations: Tackling Education, Infrastructure and Inclusive Growth.”

USIBC’s Education Initiative

External Affairs Minister Mr. S.M. Krishna (centre) along with his delegation and the USIBC officials at the opening ceremony of US India Business Council

will serve as a dynamic platform for business, NGOs, and academia to provide vital input into both the U.S. and Indian governments such that the synergies between

We can talk about strategic, defense, civil nuclear, renewable energy and every other type of commercial cooperation, but if we do not develop the skill sets in our respective societies to sustain such collaboration, all this talk will never be successfully converted to action,’ American and Indian business and educational communities are unleashed.

“We can talk about strategic, defense, civil nuclear, renewable energy and every other type of

commercial cooperation, but if we do not develop the skill sets in our respective societies to sustain such collaboration, all this talk will never be successfully converted to action,” Ron Somers, President of US-IBC, noted. “How fortunate it is that families across all walks of life in both our societies so highly value education. We have much to learn from one another, and much to accomplish - to prepare for the challenges of the 21st Century,” Somers said.

The USIBC Education initiative will focus on three thrust areas: 1. Higher Education: USIBC will host the US-India Higher Education Forum (HEF) at the invitation of the US and Indian governments.

The HEF will serve as the premier platform to enlist academia, industry and NGOs to strengthen linkages between U.S. and Indian educational institutions from both countries. The HEF will provide a formalized network for industry, academia and the NGO community to provide direct policy input to the U.S. and Indian governments in all areas of education, with an

US says India to be 'central part' of UNSC reform WASHINGTON: The US has said India would play a "central part" in the UN Security Council's reform process, but stopped short of publicly endorsing the country's bid for a permanent seat in the world body's top organ.

"We recognize, very clearly, India's increasing global role. We recognize the importance of reform of the UN Security Council; we're open to expansion of permanent membership of the Council and we believe that India's going to have a central part to play in the consideration that's going to come of that reform of the UN Security Council," Under Secre-

tary of State for Political Affairs, William Burns, said.

However, he did not publicly endorse India for the permanent membership of the UNSC. It is obvious that the UN Security Council, as has been the case with other parts of international architecture over the last few years, is an issue that needs to be addressed so that it reflects the realities of 2010, Burns said at the Council on Foreign Relations, a Washington-based think-tank.

"Now, obviously, we want to try to do that in a way which is going to preserve the effectiveness of the Security Council, but

this administration has made clear not only its openness to reform and some expansion of permanent membership in the Security Council, but we've also underscored the importance we attached to India's role," he argued.

"So I think India's going to be a central part of the consideration that is bound to come of Security Council reform," he said, adding: "I do very much understand the significance of Security Council reform. I think it's an important issue for the United States to address and I think India's going to be very much a part of that process.-PTI

aim to facilitate greater collaboration, including the opening of India’s higher education sector.

2. Elementary K-12 Education: USIBC has embarked on a sur-

Through its partnership with Tata, McGraw-Hill Education is delivering innovative, digital solutions to help workers acquire the 21st century skills they need to succeed in today’s global economy. India is home to McGrawHill’s largest employee population outside of the US vey of rural and urban, private and public K-12 schools throughout India to identify best prac-

tices that are working well in educating students, while assessing needs where industry, NGOs and government may join together to fill gaps. With the support of Ryan International Group, one of India’s leading educators, both financial and intellectual resources will be mobilized to transform these and other schools in a manner that promotes replication of successful models across India.

3. Vocational Training and Skills Development: USIBC will partner with its member-companies to feature Case Studies of Vocational Training and Skills Development that are being implemented across India. The exercise will attempt to enlist more corporations to participate in this important area of human capacity building. Programs helping to train thousands of workers will generate employment opportunities and sustain economic growth now and for the long future - in both countries.

India is embarked on expanding its community college system, including technical training institutions, as well as inviting interest in implementing 30,000 new colleges and 1,500 universities over the next decade.

The United States continues to be the most sought after destination for Indian students studying overseas, attracting as many as 113,000 each year to American universities and colleges.

Through its partnership with Tata, McGraw-Hill Education is delivering innovative, digital solutions to help workers acquire the 21st century skills they need to succeed in today’s global economy. India is home to McGraw-Hill’s largest employee population outside of the US and is the company’s fourth largest market.

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Shortage forces UK to recruit Indian doctors LONDON: Britain is turning back to Indian doctors as the nation's National Health Service (NHS) is facing acute shortage of junior medicos, posing the first test to the new coalition government's restrictive immigration policy.

The government is being forced to recruit doctors from India and elsewhere, as new rules framed in 2006 preventing doctors from non-European Union to practice in England, has led to acute shortage of medical professionals in the country.

So bad is the situation that some hospitals had to close down specialties and emergency divisions, and this crisis is forcing authorities to recruit from India and elsewhere.

"Many Indian doctors who were training here returned home when immigration rules were tightened in 2006, and media reports in India about the rules stopped many from coming here," an In-

dian doctor, holding a senior position in the NHS, told PTI. He said even though some deaneries were now recruiting from India, not many Indian doctors would be interested because immigration rules prevented them from staying for more than two years.

This short period would prevent them from having a career in the NHS, he said.

According to the BBC, the Department of Health recently approached the British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (BAPIO), for help to recruit hundreds of junior doctors from India.

The move, however, did not take off due to tight visa norms for non-EU doctors.

Given the acute shortage, the Department of Health is reported to be in favor of relaxing visa norms for Indian and other nonEU doctors, but immigration policy is the domain of the Home

Office, which so far has not indicated any possibility of change.

The Home Office is currently headed by Conservative leaders Theresa May (Home secretary) and Damian Green (Immigration minister).

Both have committed themselves to the coalition agreement's policy of imposing an annual limit on professionals migrating from non-EU countries.

BAPIO had agreed to help the Department of Health, provided the Indian doctors were allowed to stay and get training for between three and four years, rather than the two year limit currently in place.

"The Department of Health said its hands are tied. The problem is at the Home Office. The Department of Health is very much willing to extend this (visa) period, but (they are saying) that the block is at the Home Office," Ramesh Mehta, the president of BAPIO, told the BBC.-PTI

India, Pakistan can't afford resurgence of tension: US WASHINGTON: Welcoming India's decision to resume peace talks with Pakistan despite the political risk involved in it, the US has said that neither of the two nuclear powered nations can afford resurgence of tension.

"The United States welcomes recent steps by India and Pakistan towards constructive dialogue, including the planned meeting in Islamabad in July between Minister Krishna and Minister Qureshi," said the Un-

der Secretary of State for Political Affairs, William Burns.

Addressing the Council on Foreign Relations - a Washington-based think-tank, the top State Department official said the US President Barack Obama has welcomed Prime Minister Singh's willingness to take political risks in order to lessen tensions with Pakistan and has promised that the United States will continue to support those efforts.

"None of us, least of all Indi-

ans and Pakistanis, can afford a resurgence of tensions between two nuclear-armed states," he said.

"None of us, least of all Indians and Pakistanis, can afford to see groups with global terrorist ambitions like Lashkar-eTaiba continue unchecked.

As Secretary Clinton has emphasized to the Pakistani leadership, "we have no time to waste in going after that common enemy as hard and as fast as we can," Burns said. -PTI

US presses Pak for broader passenger profiling NEW YORK: US is putting on lar request as an invasion of its pressure on Pakistan for much citizens' privacy. But the issue is broader passenger profiling as now on a "short list" of sticking part of its new efforts to crack points between the two countries. down hard on terrorists, a move including some classified which has been resisted so far by counterterrorism programs.

The report comes in the wake Islamabad.

Pakistan currently provides in of botched May 1 Times Square advance only the names of pas- bombing plot, in which a 30-yearsengers traveling to the US, but old Pakistani born American citinow Washington is insisting on zen Faisal Shahzad is the main complete database of all flyers suspect.

President Obama has given his from Pakistan, the New York Times top aides a deadline of the next reported.

The American investigative few weeks to resolve the issues agencies want to use this infor- with Pakistan, the officials said. mation to track terrorists travel That pressure to deliver results patterns.

But the Times said The US wants information on now the US wants information on Pakistanis Pakistanis who fly to other who fly to other coun- countries to feed into its datatries to feed into its dabase that can detect patterns tabase that can detect patterns used by the used by the terrorists, their terrorists, their financers, their logisticians and financers, their logistiothers who support them cians and others who support them.

The US currently has a range has prompted senior officials like of confidential agreements with Gen James L Jones, the national countries governing how much security adviser, and Leon E information each will share about Panetta, the director of the Cenits citizens traveling on commer- tral Intelligence Agency, to warn cial airliners. Many countries senior Pakistani leaders of the share only information about pas- risks to the country's relationship sengers traveling to the US, while with the US if a deadly terrorist others, including several in the attack originated in their country.

The paper said under the new Caribbean, have agreed to share more information about other proposals analysts at the National countries that their residents visit. Targeting Centre in northern VirIn the case of Pakistan, Ameri- ginia, an arm of United States Cuscan officials are seeking details toms and Border Protection, could like the recent travel histories of examine the travel patterns of Paairline passengers and how they kistanis with known links to militant groups who fly to Persian Gulf paid for their tickets.

Pakistan has for several years countries, where donors to al rebuffed this politically unpopu- Qaeda and the Taliban live. -PTI

Desi News Balaji Temple to host Gundecha brothers ANUPAMA PATEL

AURORA: Sri Balaji Temple in Aurora, a southwest Chicago suburb, is presenting the Gundecha Brothers of India performing Dhrupad the oldest form of North Indian Classical Music on Saturday, June 19 at 6.00pm in the Temple auditorium.

Umakant, Ramakant and Akhilesh Gundecha - The Gundecha brothers - are prominent performers and teachers of the ancient classical vocal music of India called Dhrupad. The Gundecha brothers belong to one of Dhrupad's oldest and most illustrious musical lineages (Dagar Vani) and received their training from Zia Fariduddin Dagar and Ustad Zia Mohiuddin Dagar, the renowned Rudra Veena master. Since 1985 the Gundecha brothers have performed frequently in more than 20 countries, achieving international critical acclaim and taking their place among India's most talented and dedicated artists.

Cont’d on page 18

MAFS mini fund raiser a big success HIMALI BHARUCHA

CHICAGO: Metropolitan Asian Family Services (MAFS) held a mini fundraiser on Saturday, May 22 at its newly opened Naperville site in order to continue providing much needed services to seniors in the local community.

Guests in attendance were Shri Purnatmanandji Swami from Bharat Savashram Sangh, Greg Brownfields, a legal aid attorney, Beth O'grady, the former Executive Director of Coalition of Limited English Speaking Elderly, Marta Pereyra, the executive Director of CLESE, board members, and seniors from Naperville, Chicago, Niles and Roselle. The celebration started with a bhajan and lighting of a lamp and blessings of Shri Purnatmanandji Swami for peace, happiness and prosperity of seniors and this agency.

Cont’d on page 15

COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA

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Maria Pappas honors Indian Americans RAMESH S. India Post News Service

CHICAGO: Celebrating Asian American Heritage month in a grand manner as is usually the vogue with Cook County treasurer office for the past many years, Maria Pappas, presented recognition awards to a number of Indians, Nepalese and Nurses Association recently for their outstanding contributions to the cultural and economic well being of the sociDetails on page 16 ety they live in.

Swarnim Gujarat celebrated in Chicago with great enthusiasm RAMESH SOPARAWALA & SURESH SHAH

CHICAGO: For one day at least, Indian Americans, especially those hailing from State of Gujarat, forgot that they are not in India but felt they are in Gujarat enjoying Gujarati Raas Garba, Gujarati songs, Gujarati Dhokla Undhiyu and Gujarati talks from Gujarati men and women dressed up in traditional Gujarati dresses.

The occasion was celebration of 50th anniversary of formation of the State of Gujarat in Indian Union and the place was Waterford Banquet Hall in Elmhurst, a south west suburb of Chicago. The place was given a face lift with a typical entry gate that had Gujarati flair and inside had beautiful artifacts on Gujarat its map depicting its geographical features, rivers and mountains, its religious and tourist places, handicrafts, literary figures, its saints and leaders. Kudos to the organizers led by Narendra Patel, president of Vishwa Gujarati Samaj

Lighting of the Lamp (L-R) Ms Sumitra Patel, Usha Kiron Attri, CG Ashok Attri, Minister Sanjay Sinha, Naren Patel and Yesh Amin

North America that even the stage that was set had an Indian Gujarati look. One would really wish that the members of Indian community at large come out one

Guests and VGS officials (L-R) Ms Beena Patel. Guest of Honor Mafat Patel, Ms Usha Kiran Attri, Chief Guest Ashok Kumar Attri, Ms Sumitra Patel, VGS President Naren Patel and Minister Sinha

by one and depict their diverse cultural and regional traditions and make all India proud.

The nearly five hours of crowded event started with Beena Patel welcoming all the guests and President of VGS Narendra Patel in chaste Gujarati. This was followed by lighting of lamp and Kalash Puja - the Kalash was

brought from Gujarat and which would ultimately be sent back there in 2011. Nrendra Patel briefed the audience about VGS and thanked all those present, including Indian Consul General Ashok Kumar Attri who had come with his elegant wife Smt Usha Kiron.

Classical Indian dance in progress

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Akshaya Patra education program gets boost KATHLEEN COSGROVE

BOSTON: A sold-out Food for Education Benefit Event recently hosted by Akshay Patra Foundation at the Westin Hotel in Waltham turned out to be a huge success with the organizers raising close to $400,000 for its globally acclaimed education program for deserving and needy children in India The 52-member host committee included influential community members and change agents who were instrumental in making the

event a great success. One of the highlights was the featured speaker Dr. Deepak Chopra.

The event attracted 500 local leaders from diverse professions.

The festivities brought in not only long-time supporters, but also many people experiencing their first introduction to Akshaya Patra. Madhu Sridhar, President and CEO of Akshaya Patra, shared with the guests the Akshaya Patra's success story and urged those present to ensure that hun-

ger is not a barrier to education.

"We are gathered here to bring smiles of hope to five million children by 2020, the organization's next goal. It is our collective challenge, our collective obligation, our collective responsibility and it will be our collective joy when we meet this next milestone."

Deepak Chopra, MD, a worldrenowned authority in the field of mind-body healing, a best-selling author, and the founder of the Chopra Center for Wellbeing, de-

Dr. Deepak Chopra addressing Akshaya Patra fund raiser in Boston

Guests at Akshay Patra fund raiser in Boston: L to R Dr. Vinod Sahney, Gail Sahney, Madhu Sridhar (TAPF USA President), Dr. Kim Reid, Dr. Manohar Panjabi†

Swarnim Gujarat celebrated in Chicago with great enthusiasm Cont’d from page 13

Patel thanked all the sponsors and donors for making their event a grand success. All the sponsors and VGS directors were recognized, and sponsors were given recognition certificates at the hands of Narendra Patel and Indian CG Attri.

Hiren Patel of National Republic Bank, Raj and Nilesh Patel of Med Star Laboratories and Mafat Patel of Swad Food were honored for their huge support In his brief address, CG Attri recounted his experience with members of the Gujarati community while in Middle East and Kenya. He specifically mentioned that he had met a businessman from Gujarat whose ancestors had helped Vasco De Gama reach India via South Africa. He also mentioned that he was offered Gujarati food, Dhokla in particular, whenever he had chance to attend a dinner with Gujarati families. He paid compliments to great business acumen of Gujarati businessmen

minutes address pitched in calm and unruffled voice to sink differences and work unitedly for the betterment of Gujarat and India. He said that the Swarnim celebrations would last till end April 2011 and celebrations across the globe should help promote image of the State worldwide. SK Nanda, a high level official of Gujarat Government was present and he addressed the A section of the audience in jovial mood with artists in background

and pointed out that even today it is Gujarat which attracts highest flow of investible funds from overseas investors.

In between, a message from Narendra Modi, Chief Minister of Gujarat was video played. Dr. Bharat Barai who had gone with Chicago businessman Tulsi Patel to Gujarat to attend Golden Jubilee celebrations had brought DVD from Gandhinagar. Modi in his ten

gathering too in Gujarati. Thakore Patel representing VGS Gujarat had specially come from Ahmedabad.

Also, present was, Sanjay Sinha, the Minister of Commerce from Indian Embassy Washington DC There were classical Indian dances, Gujarati folk dance (Garba), Gujarati songs by local artists and of course, mouth watering Gujarati dinner - Dhokla, Patra, Puran Poli, Undhiyu, Dahi Vada and Kulfi.

livered the keynote address. He The Foundation is one of the said that the keys to human hap- world's largest NGO-run midday piness lay in efforts to make some- meal programs, feeding 1.2 million one else happy. children each day in over 7,000 In addition to donating money schools through 19 kitchens in to feed a large school for an entire eight states in India. A public-priyear on behalf of his grandchil- vate partnership, Akshaya Patra dren, the next morning Dr. Chopra combines good management, inwrote on his Twitter account to his novative technology and smart over 200,000 followers, "It was a engineering to deliver school wonderful & humbling experience 2 see so much compassion in action. In addition to donating Akshaya Patra Rocks!" At the request of Sridhar, Dr. money to feed a large Chopra graciously agreed school for an entire year to speak for Akshaya Patra on behalf of his once a year in the US. The event was spon- grandchildren, the next sored by Leader Bank, MFA, Chitika, A123 Sys- morning Dr. Chopra wrote tems, Abacus Software, Veon his Twitter account nus Capital and Deshpande Foundation. to his over 200,000 New corporations that followers, ‘It was a wonsponsored the event this year included EMC, CSS, derful & humbling experiPatni, InteQ and J.P.Morgan. In addition, en- ence 2 see so much thusiastic volunteers from compassion in action’ Leader Bank helped the registration process go smoothly for a second year in a row. lunch at $28 to feed a child daily Two meal delivery vehicles for the entire school year. were sponsored at a cost of over With an average government $20,650 each; three large schools subsidy of 50 percent, $28 feeds were sponsored at a cost of over two children. This meal gives $12,600 each; two mid-sized these children an incentive to come schools were sponsored at a cost to school, stay in school and proof over $4,200 each; and 20 small- vides them with the necessary size schools were sponsored for nutrients they need to develop $1,400 each. The rest of the money their cognitive abilities to focus on raised was for providing healthy learning. meals to deserving children in all Akshaya Patra's next milestone eight states in India where is to serve 5 million children daily Akshaya Patra has kitchens. by 2020.

June 11, 2010

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MAFS mini fund raiser a big success HIMALI BHARUCHA

to fix and make it better…that is her one single guiding vision."

Marta Pereyra was honored to be a part of yet another success of MAFS and was proud to say that it is a shining star among the other fifteen agencies CLESE supports. She praised members of MAFS for their tireless efforts to assist older adults in order to help them stay at their own homes peacefully with dignity.

Lighting of Lamp by Shri Purnatmananda Ji Maharaj. Seen in the picture (L-R) Rekha Mrs. Santosh Mohanty, Noor Tejanii, a Board Member, Shri Purnatmanandji Swami, Mrs. Santosh Kumar, Kumar welcomed Executive President, Sankarprasad Bhatt, a board member, Dr. Firdaus Jafri, President, Pramod Kumar, the CFO. guests and assured everyone present CHICAGO: Metropolitan Asian assistance- almost 2/3 less than that she was committed to assist Family Services (MAFS) held a the minimum cost of nursing home and empower seniors through mini fundraiser on Saturday, May which is approximately $6,500 per various senior programs i.e. Com22 at its newly opened Naperville year, and therefore, from the per- munity Care Program, Adult Day site in order to continue provid- spective of a taxpayer, CCP is Care Program, ESL, Health Educaing much needed services to se- much beneficial. tion, Computer Classes, Hot niors in the local community.

In his eyes, CCP services are Lunch Program, Health Education, Guests in attendance were Shri vital and he will make sure to fund and programs for culturally approPurnatmanandji Swami from the program with out delays or priate activities and festivities etc.

Bharat Savashram Sangh, Greg budget cuts when he is elected.

She mentioned that Naperville Brownfields, a legal aid attorney, Praising Mrs. Kumar, Beth site will offer Social Services and Beth O'grady, the former Executive O'grady, spoke about her long as- Immigration Programs which are Director of Coalition of Limited sociation with Mrs. Kumar since not funded by State of Illinois in English Speaking Elderly, Marta past fifteen years and expressed DuPage County.

Pereyra, the executive Director of that "Mrs. Kumar is a light that Convincing seniors, Mrs. CLESE, board members, and se- shines on the world and what she Kumar stated that no matter what niors from Naperville, Chicago, sees, she wants to help, she wants the age or the health condition or Niles and Roselle.

The celebration started with a bhajan and lighting of a lamp and blessings of Shri Purnatmanandji Swami for peace, happiness and prosperity of seniors and this agency.

MAFS' Board President Dr. Firdaus Jafri welcomed everyone and thanked Mrs. Santosh Kumar, the Executive Director of MAFS for navigating the ship of this agency admirably even during the recent rough weather.

She applauded Ms Santosh Kumar and the management as a whole for being able to do what they started many years ago and for being strong despite budget cuts from the state.

Greg Brownfields was pleased to be a part of MAFS family and shared his concerns about senior care. He promised to support the continuing efforts of agencies like MAFS to keep seniors in their own homes rather than nursing homes.

One of the foremost reasons he is choosing to run for State Representative position of 55 district is that he could assist elderly and disabled throughout Northern Illinois.

He stated that Community Care Program provides cost efficient

Sonalika Panigrahi, performing Odissi dance

the financial status, she would render all possible help thru her agency. She was very happy to see her dream being materialized as she planned and worked very hard to open the Naperville site.

She requested and urged seniors from the community to take benefit of the services MAFS has to offer. She thanked Greg…... for encouraging her to open centers in Niles, in Schaumburg/Roselle,

in Naperville and where ever there's need. She was grateful to Dr. Firdaus Jafri for her continued support, Rachna Nayar for pitching support from the community for time, energy, and funds on MAFS behalf, the Board members, Shahida Khan and Shakarprasad Bhatt, Noor Tejani and her staff for their help and effort.

Cont’d on page 16

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June 11, 2010

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Maria Pappas honors Indian Americans RAMESH S. India Post News Service

CH I C A G O : C e l e b r a t i n g Asian American Heritage month in a grand manner as is usually the vogue with Cook County treasurer office for the past many years, Maria Pappas, presented recognition awards to a number of Indians, Nepalese and Nurses Association recently for their outstanding contributions to the cultural and economic well being of the society they live in.

Among the Indian Americans were Susan Patel, a community activist, Kishore Chug, a prominent pharmacist who renders big help to a free clinic on Peterson Avenue, Bala Ghimre, a Nepalese restaurant owner, Indian nurses and an award of excellence to the Indian Nurses Association of Illinois. Tissy Cyriac, president, accepted the award on behalf of

INS President Tissy Cyriac receiving the award on behalf of Nurses Association

INAI. The association was founded in 2001, and has over 400 members. The mission of INAI is to establish a professional body to identify and meet

the professional cultural and social needs unique to nurses of Indian origin and heritage.

Susan Patel is actively associated with a good number of so-

MAFS mini fund raiser a big success

L to R Kishore Chug, Susan Patel (center) and Maria Pappas

cial activities. She volunteered for Indo American Center till recently. Kishore Chug is a noted pharmacist and helps channel medicine and drugs for needy

thru a free clinic on Peterson Ave in Chicago. Bala Ghimre has won accolades for serving Chicagoans with excellent authentic Nepalese cuisine.

Indo-U.S. Physician Exchange Program SUDHIR VYAS

section of MAFS Audience

Cont’d from page 15

The event was a great success.

Everyone enjoyed traditional Odissi performance dance by Sonalika Panigrahi from Upkala Center and entertainment by Sonalika, Rekha Mohanty, Raju Bankapur, Amir, Ken and Sudhir Bollywood Awaz & M3 Orchestra.

Seniors took great interest in singing and dancing with enthusiasm and energy which is indescribable.

Many community members donated generously and supported this worthy cause.

Shree Rekha Mohanty and Ruju Bankapur, entertainers

WASHINGTON DC: A recently tant role in improving medical eduestablished American Professional cation and health care in India and Exchange Association (APXA) will also learn about local tradihas announced a novel program tional medical practices. The visinvolving an exchange of physi- iting Indian physicians will get cians between India and US. The acquainted with U.S. health care main thrust is to provide a free system. Such exchanges will also service that would match U.S. phy- result in joint projects benefiting sicians with physicians in India for both India and the United States. voluntary and APXA will match mutually agreed physicians based reciprocal visits. on specialty and Under this prointerest. gram, hosts This program would provide was initiated by free lodging, the Science board, and proCounselor, Dr. D. fessional interacDutta (representtions to their vising the Ambassaiting guests. dor of India); Dr. Dr Navin Shah, CEO APXA These exchanges V.K. Shah, Presiwill prove benefident of AAPI; Dr. cial - both professionally and cul- Jayesh B. Shah, Chair AMA - IMG turally, according to Navin C. Shah Section; and Dr. Navin C. Shah, CEO APXA. CEO, APXA, on May 20, 2010 at The program's information and the Embassy of India in Washingneeded forms are available at ton, D.C. www.apxamembers.com. This proOf the 950,000 practicing phygram is supported by the U.S. State sicians in the United States, 45,000 Department (Office of Professional are of Indian origin. In addition and Cultural Exchanges); the Ameri- there are 10,000 U.S. physicians in can Medical Association (AMA) training of Indian origin. Some of [International Medical Graduates these physicians would like to visit (IMG) Section]; the World Health India and provide their services Organization (WHO - Global Health and expertise. Similarly, some of Workforce Alliance - GHWA); the the physicians in India would like Government of India; and the Ameri- to visit the United States to avail can Association of Physicians of state of the art knowledge and Indian Origin (AAPI). practice in their specialty. APXA APXA expects that United provides an organized approach States physicians play an impor- for physician exchange.

June 11, 2010

Community Across America

India Post 17

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Creating awareness for Pancha Karma treatment MADHU PATEL

CHICAGO: With thirty plus years of ex- best seasons. Purgation that can be done once perience as an Ayurvedic practitioner and is used to eliminate exand forgotten, but must after having treated thousands of patients cess Pitta from its site in be integrated into one's strictly through Ayurvedic treatment and the small intestine. It is entire life-regimen. It remedies, Dr. Gargi Vasavda is now set to not always advisable for may be necessary to recreate awareness among Indians as well as Vata types. peat the whole process Americans alike about the efficacy of this Niruha basti uses of Pancha Karma. age old medical science. special herbal solutions, During panchakarma, Principally, she wants to concentrate on and treats conditions infatigue malaise, headthe importance and need of Panchakarma cluding skin diseases, aches, congestion, genline of treatment advocated strongly in liver problems, abdomieral illness, and an inAyurveda that centers around to a large ex- nal tumors, parasites, crease in symptoms may tent on a complete cleansing of body to get and chronic fevers. For occur as side effects. rid of toxicity and wastes. It is this toxicity therapeutic enemas, meAlso, it seeks to release that leads to a debilitation of immune system dicinal oils and herbal stored emotional probwhich in its turn, not only triggers but also solutions are used to lems from the patient; causes a spared of many diseases. cleanse the lower bowsome people may expeThe five main methods of Panchakarma els. .. Enemas (basti) are rience mental disturare Vamana (therapeutic vomiting) Virechana, a mild therapy and can bances during treatment. (enema therapy -Niruha Basti for medicated be used for many condiDr. Gargi said that enemas - Anuvasana basti (for oil enemas), tions. Cleansing enemas she commenced her Dr. Gargi Vasavda Nasya (nasal cleansing) and Swedan- (Niruha basti) are used practice in Ahmedabad Pindaswedam ( Navarakkizhi), Patraswedam. in Pancha Karma to dispel excess Vata from Ayu Raksha - about two decades ago and Depending on the health problem, one or its site in the large intestine. must have seen and treated thousands of more of these methods are used to cleanse They are made with decoctions of anti- patients. On an average, 200 patients are the body and promote healing. Other Vata herbs. Niruha and anuvasana basti are given Pancha Karma treatment in a month.

Ayurvedic therapies may be used in conjunc- used to treat conditions such as constipaWhen asked about the end results, she tion as well. tion, arthritis, nervous dis- said that a very large number of patients have In a talk to this paorders, colitis, headaches, responded very favorably to the treatment per, she said that pre- ‘The important point that muscle weakness, and and this leads many to come for frequent liminary detoxifica- I would like to make is lower back pain bout of Pancha Karma. They feel a remarktion and Ama-reduc- that Pancha Karma Nasya, literally, 'what able improvement in their immune system and ing methods, accordrelates to the nose.' For feel rejuvenated as well, she said. The basic ing to one's dosha, treatment basically is Nasya, medicated oils or philosophy is that the body should get rid of should be followed not going counter to powders are administered for a period prior to into the nostrils to cleanse any other form of treatPancha Karma. the sinuses. Nasya is useVamana uses ment that one follows. It ful for many Vata and herbal solutions or is more than likely that Kapha disorders. It allows salt water to induce for direct action on prana it would rather speed vomiting. It is mainly and the brain. It is helpful for those with con- up the progress to in some Pitta disorders, as gestion of phlegm in disease free healthier well as any diseases of the the lungs and stomhead and nasal passages. ach, usually Kapha life,’ she said This therapy is used to constitutions .This treat conditions of the treatment is used for skin problems, asthma, head, including mental disorders, headaches, diabetes, chronic sinus or lung infections, and ear, nose, and throat problems. Snehana, epilepsy, heart disease, and digestive disor- also called 'oleation therapy' is an important ders. Virechan, a strong purgative is given therapeutic method in Ayurveda, with oils like aloe or castor oil. used both externally and internally.

Purgative herbs are usually given in the Steam therapy or therapeutic sweating, evening, so that five to eight bowel move- Svedana, is another important method. ments occur the next day, flushing out the Pancha Karma treatment has several folintestines. Late spring and summer are the low up practices. It is not an isolated therapy

AWB scholarships for female Asian students India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Asian Women in Business will award $2,500 scholarships to female Asian students who demonstrate a commitment to scholarship, leadership, community service, and/or entrepreneurship.

Candidates for the scholarship must be female of Asian (includes those who can trace their ancestry from Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam) or Pacific Islander ancestry.

Candidates must also fulfill the following criteria to be considered: Have at least one or more of the following:

a) demonstrated a leadership role in a community or non-profit endeavor, or b) a record of entrepreneurial achievement; enrolled full-time in an accredited four-year undergraduate institution in the US at the time of application and award; carry a minimum of 3.0 (out of 4.0) GPA at the time of application; provide most recent college transcript; semi-finalists will be required to provide their official college transcript Provide at least one professional recommendation; fully complete the AWIB Scholarship Application; be a US citizen or permanent resident.

All application materials must be postmarked by August 1. Semifinalists will be notified in September and winners will be notified in November.

its toxic waste and recapture a proper balance of Vat- Pitta and Kupha elements for a healthy and long life. "Pancha Karma aims at this. Synchronized or followed up with herbal medicine and other Ayurvedic drugs- formulation, it should help one overcome many diseases. Ayurved has treatment for Madhumeh (diabetes), Karkarog (cancer) Auj Kshaya (AIDS) and many such diseases.

Early diagnosis and treatment are really important for lasting cure," she said.

She said that Ayurved bases its diagnosis on pulse reading followed with inputs form patient. It can be supplemented with the modern days screening and other testing results. But it has to be using its own medicines and drugs.

Also, the modern medical science has made tremendous advances in the field of surgery and Ayurveda practitioners can also take advantages of these developments in medical field, she observed.

Dr. Gargi was in Chicago last month and has conducted a few seminars on Pancha Karma here before going to Charlotte. She is more than willing to have more such seminars and talks for general public as also for those in the field of medicine.

"The important point that I would like to make is that Pancha Karma treatment basically is not going counter to any other form of treatment that one follows. It is more than likely that it would rather speed up the progress to disease free healthier life," she said.

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June 11, 2010

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PCS celebrates India festival RAJINDER SINGH MAGO

CHICAGO: The Punjabi Cultural Society of Chicago (PCS) partnered with Chicago Children's Museum (CCM) at Navy Pier in organizing the Passport to the World: India Festival Celebrations on May 16.

Punjabi artists performing traditional Punjabi dances at Navy Pier in Chicago The PCS perforDhillon. mances depicted an enriched moPassport to the World is desaic of diverse traditions from the of Northbrook, Illinois and current north Indian state of Punjab includ- Inter-Community Director of PCS signed to expose children to a variety of cultures and to affirm ing the Punjabi folk dances Bhangra Chicago.

As the program moved indoors with each child his own cultural and Gidha performed by various Punjabi youths from around the to the Chicago Children's Mu- identity and ethnic heritage, Midwest region. Attendees also par- seum, attendees experienced stated Keith McCormick, CCM's ticipated in turban tying, Mehendi, dance performances by children Director of Cultural Programs. from Indiana and Illinois, PCS of Chicago is a not-forand other Indian performing arts.

An outdoor procession of more Bhangra 101 dance lessons, a profit community organization than 200 participants commenced turban tying workshop by Sikh devoted to promoting the Punjabi the festivities at Navy Pier with American Heritage Organization culture, language, performing street dancing and the eclectic (SAHO) volunteers, and arts, healthy life style and sports, beats of the Punjabi Dhol drum Mehendi art by Rajneesh Kaur education, and good citizenship played by Kevindeep Singh Atwal Singh helped by Harpreet Kaur in the metropolitan Chicago area.

Rajan Zed honored at Maryland Vishnu Temple HARI RAO

Central Jersey ashram launches Community Care program India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: As part of its 10th anniversary celebration on June 5, the Arsha Bodha Center in Central Jersey launched a unique new program aimed at helping vulnerable community members who are dealing with emotional and physical difficulties.

The Jana Raksha Community Care Program is intended to help Hindus in Central Jersey who are coping with physical or emotional distress caused by illness, life events, or family situations.

The Arsha Bodha Center is an ashram dedicated to the traditional teaching of Vedanta, Sanskrit, Bhagavad Gita, meditation, Vedic chanting, and related Hindu spiritual practices. The Center was established in 2000 to give residents of Central New Jersey ready access to the wisdom (bodha) of the sages of ancient India (arsha).

The Hindu community in Central New Jersey has grown significantly in the past two decades, but there are very few support services available for them," said Swami Tadatmananda, the Spiritual Director of the Jana Raksha Community Care Program, and founder of the Arsha Bodha Center. "The Jana Raksha program will fill the gap between professional services and family support. Our trained caregivers

can provide one-on-one support and care giving, offering encouragement and spiritual comfort to those in need. We will also provide referrals to community based services."

Caregivers are themselves members of the Hindu community who are familiar with cultural and religious issues. Other than English, support can be provided in several Indian languages, including Gujarati, Hindi, Marathi, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Konkani, Sindhi and Punjabi. Caregivers have been trained to handle situations involving grief and loss, depression, chronic illness, family conflict, marital discord and divorce, job related stress and other issues.

To obtain support from the Jana Raksha Community Care Program, people can call 732-690-9593. A trained community caregiver will be assigned to the caller based on their needs. Caregivers will be available over the phone and in person to provide ongoing support. All information shared by the recipient of care will be strictly confidential.

Caregivers will receive ongoing training and supervision from mental health clinicians and spiritual support from Swami Tadatmananda.

All services from the Jana Raksha Community Care Program are offered free of charge.

Balaji Temple to host Gundecha brothers

Rajan Zed seen being honored

MARYLAND: Sri Siva Vishnu Temple in Lanham (Maryland, USA), a prominent Hindu temple of America, has honored Hindu statesman Rajan Zed for his services to the community.

Zed, who is president of Universal Society of Hinduism, was garlanded; a shawl was presented to him; and Sanskrit mantras were recited by Temple priests to bless him during his visit on May 25.

Ms. Mythili Bachu, Temple President, was also present.

Rajan Zed is one of the panelists for “On Faith”, a prestigious interactive conversation on religion produced jointly by N e w s w e e k and washingtonpost.com. He has been awarded “World Interfaith

Leader Award” by National Association of Interchurch and Interfaith Families.

Sri Siva Vishnu Temple, one of the largest in western hemisphere, incorporates Mayan, Pallava, Vijayanagara, Kerala and the South Canara styles of temple architecture. It was built with the blessings of the Shankaracharyas, under the direction of eminent temple architect Dr. Ganapati Sthapati, and houses several Sannidhis with deities like Andal, Ayyappa, Durga, Ganesha, Hanuman, Karthikeya, Krishna, Lakshmi, Navagrahas, Parvathi, Rama, Saraswathi, Siva, Sudarsana, Venkateshwara, and Vishnu.

Open to all, Sri Siva Vishnu

Temple holds free-of-charge seminars on Vedanta, Upanishads, ethics, and Hinduism; classes on meditation, Sanskrit, astrology, Vedas, yoga, Hindu philosophy and culture, and world religions; discussion series on Bhagavad-Gita, Puranas, Bhagavatam, Ramayan; daily-weekly-monthly pujas (worship); and discourses on Hindu scriptures and philosophy. It also participates in various interfaith events in the region. Its children’s educational programs include recitation of shlokas, Puranas storytelling, and performing of pujas. It makes sandwiches for the homeless fortnightly and offers yoga for seniors.

Gundecha brothers

Cont’d from page 13

They have more than 25 commercial recordings to their credit, including an award winning Dhrupad sound track for the environmental film "Raga of River Narmada". Apart from being an integral part of all of India's prestigious music festivals, the Broth-

ers have also performed at many important international music festivals and institutions.

When not touring and performing, the Gundechas devote themselves to teaching Dhrupad at their international school of music in Bhopal, India and at the prestigious Shri Ram Bhartiya Kala Kendra in New Delhi.

June 11, 2010

Community Across America

India Post 19

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Survey shows unprecedented impact of AAHOA India Post News Service

the equivalent of 436,900 full-time jobs plus additional part-time workATLANTA, GA: The Asian ers, who are paid $9.4 billion anAmerican Hotel Owners Associa- nually in salaries and wages. Paytion (AAHOA) is often referred to roll taxes, subsidized health insuras one of the most powerful orga- ance, vacation pay, and pension nizations in the hospitality indus- contribution add another $2.5 biltry - and now a comprehensive lion in compensation.

AAHOA hoteliers are typically new independent research project small business enproves that's true. trepreneurs, but The study conducted by the ‘The findings of this have established portfolios that inprestigious At- research are clude numerous lanta-based firm of simple but there's full-service, limitedPKF Hospitality service, and indeResearch (PFK- nothing simple pendent lodging faHR) - shows that about the hard cilities. They have the 10,000 members work, commitstrong roots in their of AAHOA own communities and 20,156 hotels ment, and busigenerate a powerful which together ness acumen that local "ripple" ecohave almost 1.8 milnomic effect lion rooms and a our members through their expenproperty value of have continually diture of operating $128.7 billion. demonstrated expenses plus capiPKF-HR findtal investments. ings are based on a For example, AAHOA members typical year of operation. According to widely accepted industry re- spend more than $31 billion annusearch, AAHOA members own more ally on operating costs that inthan 40 percent of the total number clude: • $11.9 billion on labor of hotels in the United States and • $2.3 billion on utilities 39 percent of all of the guest rooms.

• $2.2 billion on payments to Employment at these hotels totals 578,600 employees, including franchise companies for royalty

payments, guest loyalty program costs, plus reservations and marketing assessments • $2 billion on property taxes • $1.3 billion on food and beverage purchases • $1.2 billion on room, food, and beverage department supplies • $1.1 billion on credit card commissions, and

"These numbers dramatically confirm the significant role that Asian American hoteliers play both in our industry and in our country's economy," said Tarun S. Patel, AAHOA Chairman. "These survey results will be invaluable as we advocate on behalf of our members with franchisors, legislators, bankers, and others."

"The findings of this research are simple but there's nothing simple about the hard work, commitment, and business acumen that our members have continually demonstrated in order to achieve this unmatched level of influence and impact in an industry that's complex, competitive, and cyclical," said Fred Schwartz, AAHOA President.

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Ahmadiyyas persecuted by ‘terrorists’ India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community continues to lay to rest its victims -- 98 so far -- from the horrific May 28 simultaneous terrorist attacks on their two Mosques in Lahore, Pakistan. A Punjabbased Pakistani Taliban group has claimed responsibility for the brutal attacks, with continued threats being made against the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community at large.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community within Pakistan remains under constant threats and persecution, while the government, police and anti-terrorist security forces stand idly by doing nothing. Throughout Lahore and in many other areas of Pakistan, anti-Ahmadiyya banners and billboards remain in place today, calling for the continued boycotting, persecution and outright murder of any and all members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.

Cont’d on page 22

OCTaxPAC endorses Harry Sidhu candidature India Post News Service

ORANGE: The Orange County Taxpayers Association Political Action Committee (OCTaxPAC) has announced its support for Harry Sidhu for Orange County Supervisor.

In a statement it says, OCTaxPAC supports your primary-election campaign to become Orange County's 4th District Supervisor.... Your endorsement by OCTaxPAC came after detailed interviews with you and the other candidates, followed by considerable discussion.

Dr. Ami Bera proves to be a tremendous fundraiser

Ami Bera with his wife Janine and daughter Sydra India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: California’s Third Congressional District is one of the top pick-up opportunities for Democrats nationally. This is due, in large part, to IndianAmerican Dr. Ami Bera. Since making his formal announcement into the race, Dr. Bera has proven to be a tremendous fundraiser with a strong commitment to voter outreach. In fact, Dr. Bera is one of only a few challengers in the country to outraise an incumbent opponent. Bera has outraised his opponent in the last four consecutive fundraising quarters.

Bera’s early success has Democrats around the nation engaged and excited about the 3rd Congressional District.

Recently, Bera was named to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s (DCCC) prestigious Red to Blue Program, awarded to only a select few challenger races in the country. This program is

saved only for the few top-tier pickup opportunities nationally and provides strategic support, helping ensure a strong finish against the vulnerable Dan Lungren.

Lungren has lost significant support in the 3rd Congressional

As doctor administrator

29,616 more registered Republicans than Democrats in the 3rd Congressional District. In March 2009, only 39.6% of the registered voters affiliated as Republicans compared to 37.7% for Democrats – a negligible 2% advantage. In

Dr. Ami Bera is a lifelong Californian and the youngest son of parents who emigrated from India in the 1950s. Benefiting from a strong family, stable community, and public schools, Ami was able to attend the University of California, Irvine (UCI) where he received his undergraduate and medical degrees, and where he met his future wife, Dr. Janine Bera District, with his share of the vote declining from 62% when he was first elected to 49% in 2008.

Lungren’s waning popularity is only amplified by recent voter registration statistics, which reflect a much stronger Democratic presence.

As recently as 2004, there were

Sacramento County, the Republican advantage has declined to less than 3,000 votes. For the first time, the 3rd Congressional District segment of Solano County is slightly more Democratic than Republican.

The downward trajectory of Lungren’s popularity, the strength

India Post News Service

India Post News Service

GARDEN GROVE: Grace Whitcomb, manager for Southern California Edison's (SCE) supplier diversity and development division, has been named a minority small-business champion of the year by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Whitcomb accepted the honor at a luncheon here.

Cont’d on page 23

Cont’d on page 22

Wells Fargo honors two South Asian students

Cont’d on page 22

So Cal Edison's Diversity Manager honored

of Dr. Bera’s candidacy, and the rapidly changing make up of CA 3 has Ami Bera poised for success this November.

Dr. Ami Bera is a lifelong Californian and the youngest son of parents who emigrated from India in the 1950s. Benefiting from a strong family, stable community, and public schools, Ami was able to attend the University of California, Irvine (UCI) where he received his undergraduate and medical degrees, and where he met his future wife, Dr. Janine Bera.

Ami’s career spans both the private and public sectors. After graduating from UCI Medical School, Ami joined the Mercy Medical Group (MMG) as an Internist and became Chief of Internal Medicine for MMG. Ami very quickly understood how a hospital should run, and he became the Medical Director for Care Management at the five-hospital Mercy Healthcare system in Sacramento.

CUPERTINO: Eight-year old South Asian students Aditya Godavarti and Sharanya Das of Cupertino are ending the school year with a significant accomplishment to be proud of.

The second grade students were named winners in the annual "Growing Up Asian in America" art and essay contest which was created by the Asian Pacific Fund in 1995 to provide a forum for Asian youth to explore and value their Asian American heritage.

Wells Fargo Bank is a sponsor of the contest. This year's theme, "Expectations - to be and do what is in your heart," called for art,

Sharanya Das and Aditya Godavarti, both eight years old, each received $500 from Wells Fargo for placing in the top three in their age group in Asian Pacific Fund's "Growing Up Asian in America" contest

essay and poem submissions from kindergarten to 12th grade representing what they want to be when they grow up, offering images of astronauts, doctors and chefs. Contest organizers say, in their young minds, the sky's the limit, and they see how their Asian heritage inspires their ambitions.

Godavarti, a student of Eaton Elementary, earned the first place prize in the K-5 category. His dream of becoming a young veterinarian was expressed in his drawing that featured him wearing a white doctor's coat helping dozens of sick animals.

Cont’d on page 23

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Swamy Sri Veera Rudra Yogi ji is a specialist in removing Katoragni Black Magic. He is a Kaarana Janmi of this time, born for a reason to save everyone who believes in him from Pralayas (disasters). He performs very ancient and powerful Poojas which dates back around 4000 years ago such as Brahma Tejas, Agni hotra, Sharapanjaram, Sookshma Kaarya Siddi to shake away darkness such as Omen. Evil Spirits such as Saitan, Shenkini, Yenkini, Daakini and Mohini. Mantra, Tantra, Kutantra will be removed completely.

Athala Vithala Paathala, Akhila Boomandala Chanda Prachanda Marthanda Daivagnani.

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Community/California

India Post

June 11, 2010

www.indiapost.com

Ahmadiyyas persecuted by same terrorists who attack US India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community continues to lay to rest its victims -- 98 so far -- from the horrific May 28 simultaneous terrorist attacks on their two Mosques in Lahore, Pakistan. A Punjab-based Pakistani Taliban group has claimed responsibility for the brutal attacks, with continued threats being made against the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community at large.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community within Pakistan remains under constant threats and persecution, while the government, police and anti-terrorist security forces stand idly by doing nothing. Throughout Lahore and in many other areas of Pakistan, antiAhmadiyya banners and billboards

remain in place today, calling for the continued boycotting, persecution and outright murder of any and all members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community.

The May 28 incident is the worst attack to date in Pakistan since the community was declared nonMuslim in 1974 and subsequently forbidden in a 1984 constitutional amendment to preach, profess or in any way practice their Islamic faith. Countless members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in the U.S. have suffered the tragic loss of their family and relatives.

Imam Shamshad Ahmad Nasir from the Baitul Hameed Mosque in Chino, California states, "We have been victims of state-sponsored terrorism since 1974 when the members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community were declared a non-

Media men covering the massacre in Pakistan crouch for safety

Muslim minority. Later, in 1984, the military dictator General Ziaul Haq, the mastermind of the Taliban movement, went a step further and

A victim being rushed to hospital

Dr. Ami Bera proves to be a tremendous fundraiser Cont’d from page 20

A career in public service beckoned as Ami went on to become the Medical Director and Chief Medical Officer for Sacramento County and its 1.3 million residents. Here, Dr. Bera created the Sac Advantage program to help small businesses more easily insure its employees, reducing the number of uninsured in Sacramento County and lowering the cost of care for all.

Ami became a Professor and Dean of Admissions at UC Davis Medical School, mentoring future doctors and exploring ways to make treatment more affordable.

Ami, his wife Janine, and his daughter have lived in Elk Grove, California, the most populated city in California’s 3rd Congressional District since 1995.

Ami is running for Congress

because he believes the moment is right to bring new energy to the American story, with the faith that we can establish a more just, compassionate, and healthy world.

Ami believes that with the right leadership and a collective effort, together, we can create: A quality, affordable health care system that provides compassionate, cost-effective, and essential coverage to all; that reduces the cost of services without compromising quality of care; and that minimizes interference of government or the insurance industry in decisions that should be made between the patient and their care provider.

Strong schools that prepare our kids to compete for the jobs of the 21st century economy. It’s not enough to just have the best schools and the best teachers. As parents, we need to turn off the

TVs and video games, and ensure kids do their homework.

A vibrant economy that rewards those who work hard and play by the rules, not corporate CEOs who exploit loopholes and leave others to clean up their mess; that encourages competition and innovation without exploiting hard-working middle-class Americans; and that harnesses American creativity to once again position our economy as one of the strongest in the world, so we don’t continue to rack up debt that future generations will inherit.

A common-sense, responsible plan for energy independence that develops our sustainable industries – like wind and solar – to achieve economic prosperity, clean air and water, and independence from foreign oil, making America safer and putting Americans back to work.

criminalized all Muslim acts of worship when performed by an Ahmadi. Coincidently, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is persecuted by the same terrorists who exist to attack the United States."

Despite such bloodshed, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has responded with continued advocacy towards peace. It maintains its adherence to the Islamic tenet that there is no place for violence of any kind, since reverence for life is a part of Islam.

The community has not retaliated in any manner, nor held rallies or other demonstrations despite continual persecution. A massive letter-writing campaign has begun, requesting the U.S. government to apply pressure on Pakistan to repeal its blasphemy laws and ordinances within their constitution that are routinely used to sanction and justify the persecution and killing of Ahmadi Muslims, Christians,

Jews and other religious minorities in Pakistan. The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has faced intense governmental and extremist persecution in Pakistan for nearly 40 years.

In a statement issued from London by the Fifth Khalifa, or spiritual leader, of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, His Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad said: "The situation in Pakistan is extremely grave. For decades, Ahmadi Muslims have not been able to live in peace; in fact, they live their lives in constant danger.

In 1974, Ahmadi Muslims were declared "non-Muslims" by the government of Pakistan, and then ten years later, the infamous ordinance XX was adopted [as an amendment to the Pakistan Constitution] which criminalized all forms of Ahmadi worship and the practice of its faith.

Cont’d on page 23

OCTaxPAC endorses Harry Sidhu candidature India Post News Service

ORANGE: The Orange County Taxpayers Association Political Action Committee (OCTaxPAC) has announced its support for Harry Sidhu for Orange County Supervisor.

In a statement it says, OCTaxPAC supports your primary-election campaign to become Orange County's 4th District Supervisor.... Your endorsement by OCTaxPAC came after detailed interviews with you and the other candidates, followed by considerable discussion. The selection committee considered your background as a successful small-business owner. We reviewed your seven-year record as a city councilmember who actively reduced government regulations and fees, supported private prop-

erty rights, created private-sector jobs, and heard both sides of any issue before making a decision.

"We concluded that you share OCTaxPAC's belief that taxes and tax-supported programs should be 'fair, understandable, cost effective, and good for the economy' (OCTaxPAC's mission statement)."

It was pointed out that • Harry Sidhu is a proven businessman and conservative tax fighter.

• Harry Sidhu built his business from the ground up and now employs over 120 people in Orange County.

• As a City Councilman, Harry Sidhu has consistently opposed tax and fee increases • Harry Sidhu and his family have lived in Anaheim for over 16 years.

Community/California

June 11, 2010

India Post 23

www.indiapost.com

Wells Fargo honors two South Asian students

So Cal Edison's Diversity Manager honored

by Aditya Godavarti

Cont’d from page 20

Das, a student at Faria Elementary, received the second place prize in the K-5 category. She has career aspirations of becoming an astronaut to help find new sources of energy in space.

To show its support and commitment to the students, Wells Fargo Bank honored Das and Godavarti at a special celebration held at its Cupertino store in late May. Wells Fargo awarded them with $500 in a savings account and each winner received a proclama-

tion from Cupertino Mayor Kris Wang.

"Wells Fargo is proud to support the 'Growing Up Asian in America' contest," said Bob Ceglio, Wells Fargo Peninsula Regional President. "This is an educational learning experience that teaches young kids about their heritage and also challenges them to work hard and have goals."

The winning art and essays are reproduced in an exhibit hosted by public libraries throughout the Bay Area between May 2010 and February 2011.

India Post News Service

GARDEN GROVE: Grace Whitcomb, manager for Southern California Edison's (SCE) supplier diversity and development division, has been named a minority small-business champion of the year by the U.S. Small Business

vada, Arizona, Hawaii and Guam.

The picture shows (L to R): Rachel Baranick, deputy district director, U.S. Small Business Administration, Santa Ana District Office; Grace Whitcomb, SCE diversity manager; and Joe Alderete, SCE manager, Supplier Diversity.

Ahmadiyyas persecuted by same terrorists who attack US Cont’d from page 22

"These laws effectively legitimized the exclusion and persecution of our community in Pakistan.

Ever since then, extremists have taken advantage of these laws to target Ahmadis.

"Despite this cruelty Ahmadis

By Sharanya Das

Administration. Whitcomb accepted the honor at a luncheon here. The Small Business Administration annually honors individuals for their dedication to helping minority small-businesses. Whitcomb was recognized for her work in Region IX, which includes California, Ne-

have remained loyal citizens of Pakistan and have never shown any form of civil disobedience.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama'at is a peace-loving, true Muslim Community. Thus, there will be no improper reaction from any Ahmadi.

"Our salvation lies in our sup-

plications to God Almighty, and we believe that He has, and always will, help us. No terrorist and no government can ever stop the progress of our Community because it is a Divine organization. May God protect all goodnatured people from the evil acts of those opposed to peace."

24 India Post

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June 11, 2010

Horoscope

June 11, 2010

India Post

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ARIES Mar 21-Apr 20 There is a strong chance of some kind of Jackpot. Investment made in the past will get you tons of money and have no fear about new partners in business, they will play on your tune later on. People earlier suffering from ailments will cured with help of new medications. There will be some dramatic positive change in career.

LEO Jul 23-Aug 22 Property deal will also close this week.

Just watch out for a shady character trying to flirt and come too close.

People in business will be cheerful to see their sales almost double up in short period. You are very close to getting some money out of a pending litigation. You may travel to a real nice and warm area with family.

SAGITTARIUS

June 11th to June 17th

Nov 23-Dec 22 You will put some assets in market to reduce ongoing financial pressure.

Mind will be inclined towards spiritually and it will help restore peace in mind. You will be invited to couple of upcoming social events. There are strong chances of money through legal procedure. You will call someone for direction and advice.

India's name dropped from controversial Israeli statement JERUSALEM: In a damagecontrol exercise, Israel has dropped India's name from a controversial statement in which it had referred to violence in India to justify its attack on an aid flotilla to Gaza that created a storm.

"India was mentioned in the press release by mistake. It was totally unintentional", Israel's Foreign Minister Avigdor Lieberman's media adviser Tzachi Moshe told PTI. "The moment it came to our notice, the release was corrected and reference to India was dropped," Moshe said.

His comments came a day after an Israeli Foreign Ministry statement quoting Lieberman as telling UN Secretary General Ban Kimoon said that incidents in countries like India and Pakistan in the past one month which claimed over 500 lives have been "ignored" while the Jewish state is being

condemned for its "unmistakably defensive actions".

Earlier, Israeli Ambassador to India Mark Sofer said in New Delhi that this was a "regrettable error" and that his country "does not see India in the same light as it sees its enemies." India was a close friend, he emphasized.

Sofer said already the name of India has been removed from the speech of his Foreign Minister and "we are taking this up to make sure that any misunderstanding risen out of this error of this nature will no longer be there."

He also said "Israel stands hook, line and sinker behind India in its struggle in South Asia."

In an emergency session, the UN Security Council had called for an investigation into Israel's deadly commando raid on six ships taking humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, condemning the act that resulted in the loss of at least nine lives. -PTI

TAURUS Apr 21-May 20 It will be a hectic week, Limited time and so many important places to visit.

You will buy some expensive but useful item for the house. Things will be more relaxed at work and even of of your colleague will offer his help. Transiting Sun in second can get you some money through stocks also. Do not hesitate to try your hands at lottery.

VIRGO Aug 23-Sept 22 There will be lots of activities in career. You may finally receive more than one contract in your hands. Seems like a female will be instrumental on the other side for these. It will be better to ignore the immature comment from a sibling. You will be going on a short trip with children to attend a social event this week.

CAPRICORN Dec 23-Jan 19 Health issues will come under controls with right procedure and medication. You may win some money in lottery too. Spouse will get emotional quick so have patience with her. You will be working on several brilliant ideas and one of them will click soon.

Business meetings will go well but results will come next week.

GEMINI May 21-Jun 20 Money may pour in from totally unexpected places. Old payments will finally show up and the business should also pick up suddenly. You will be making frequent phone calls to a sibling and exchange few good news.

Your past actions will pay off now and you will be admired by everyone at the party.

LIBRA Sept 23-Oct 22 There will be lots of excitement about an upcoming trip. People in business will see a sudden surge in sales with new first time clients. An old appeal will get accepted and you will receive the confirmation letter. Your car will need minor repairs. Boss will be happy with your performance and make necessary recommendations.

AQUARIUS Jan 20-Feb 18 Some of you will get a lucky break in career. Position you always wanted will be offered with better benefits. You may spend an evening with people from political background. Kids will be excited about an upcoming long distance trip. Money wise you will continue to do well and meet all commitments on time.

CANCER Jun 21-Jul 22 You may be sending some money overseas for a very good reason. Drive within speed limits when on freeway and traveling long distance. Some one who was too close long ago will once again try to flirt with you. Legal matters will start moving in the right direction and a comfortable settlement is almost within your reach in a few days.

SCORPIO Oct 23-Nov 22 Chances of making money through stocks are very strong. You will become very ambitious and try your hands in different directions and will get some results too. Some of you may join a short term course to improve your changes in this challenging world. Children will keep you involved and plan more than one trip.

PISCES Feb 19-Mar 20 Idea of legal action to prove your point will cross your mind. Strategy will silence people who have been taking undue advantage of your generosity.

You may be assigned a lighter project by the boss. You will visit an old friend with family this week. There are strong chance of a second source of income opening this week.

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June 11, 2010

India Post www.indiapost.com

27

1 Khili Re - Raavan

6 Bekarar - Paathshaala

2 Ghum Suhm Ghum Suhm - IAWA

7 Ranjha Ranjha - Raavan

3 Dont Know What To Do - Housefull

8

4 Mein Tenu Samjjawan - Virsa

9 Rang De - Bumm Bumm Bole

5 Chaska - Badmaash Company

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India Post

Yaadan - Virsa

10 Ankahi Si - Chase

June 11, 2010

Kat is

Deepika the rebel

willing

G

orgeous Katrina Kaif is every man's dream girl. Here is good news for all the single men across the world. The lovely lady is looking forward to settle down in life sooner then later. In a recent interview, the actress admitted that she is open to the idea of marriage but is waiting for the right man to step into her life. Katrina has also confessed that she is an extremely emotional person and would react whimsically at times. She said that all the link up stories with her co-actors are baseless and often depress her. Well, after Salman's exit, let's see who will be the lucky man to woo her heart.

From being just another pretty face, to becoming one of India's most loved actresses, Katrina Kaif really has a story to tell the world.

Says Katrina, who was recently voted Asia's Sexiest Woman: "Me? Hot and sexy?

Nah. People should see me at home.

I'm painfully unglamorous.

Just another working girl making a living."

D

eepika Padukone is all set to appear in a totally non-glamorous avatar in Ashutosh Gowariker's period epic 'Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Se', where she plays the role of a revolutionary named Kalpana Datta. Designer Neeta Lulla has draped Deepika in traditional Bengali saris for the film and is said to have done research for her Bengali look. "It is a single pallu drape, twice over the shoulder. When she was doing her action sequences, like any other normal sari, we tucked it around her waist," Lulla said.

For Deepika, doing all their stunts in a sari, draped in the traditional way, was a challenge because every time Deepika was to run, the sari would come in her way. This period film is based on Manini Chatterjee's book 'Do and Die: The Chittagong Uprising 1930-34' and Deepika's character Kalpana is a strong and independent woman who joined the mutiny because she believed in the cause. "Kalpana is not the kind of woman who will sit at home waiting for her husband to return," says Deepika about her character. Deepika's athletic background helped her with the action sequences. "It is nice to do your own stunts given the challenges they offer. I am very spontaneous and did not need the help of a body double," she said.

Cancer bond

O

ne look at the curvaceous Barbara Mori and one is apt to be mesmerized by the sensuality oozing out from her, but very few people know that sexy Barbara is strong too. The lady has fought and emerged victorious from the deadly cancer. The disease was diagnosed in its early stages and so, Mori didn't need chemo but had to undergo an operation to have the cancer removed. By God's grace, she is OK now but says that she makes sure to never skip her check-ups to avoid any problems.

Barbara shares this pain of hers with 'Kites' director Anurag Basu who himself had fought and survived leukemia. Initially, both were unaware of this fact but after Barbara spoke to Anurag about her past illness Anurag too poured his heart out to her about his battle with leukemia. "From that point we became soul buddies," recounts Basu emotionally adding, "I feel both Barbara and I have emerged stronger human beings after fighting our illnesses. It definitely makes you understand the world around you better. My best work came after my illness.

That can't be a coincidence. When you fight death you understand life better. I'm sure it's true for Barbara as well."

Barbara has shared this battle of hers in Namrata Singh Gujral's docu-drama titled 1 a Minute, to release in 2010.

Bollywood

June 11, 2010

www.indiapost.com

Hiring Mallika

B

ollywood's bold and beautiful Mallika Sherawat, prefers to be seen with the Chings-&Changs and Yin-&-Yangs these days. Well, this time round its California, that Mallika is making news in.

She turned a number of heads with her trademark deep neck, recently at a fund-raising, wine-testing luncheon in Malibu.

Grapevine is that, the actress, was auctioned, and the winning bidder got to spend a day with her - you know the usual lunch, photoshoots and all. The money ($1400) of course went towards charity. Great going Mallika.

India Post

29

India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES, CA: Internationally renowned musician and composer AR Rahman is embarking on a highly anticipated world tour. The "A.R. Rahman Jai Ho Concert: The Journey Home World Tour" produced by Deepak Gattani and Rapport Productions, will kick off on June 11 in New York at The Nassau Coliseum.

The tour will travel to over 20 major arenas and cities worldwide including The Forum in Los Angeles, The Patriot Center in Washington DC, American Airlines Arena in Dallas as well as O2 Arena in London to name a few.

Rahman's rise to prominence in the west came when he captured the world spotlight last year with his work on the film score for Danny Boyle's Slumdog Millionaire winning a Golden Globe, two Academy Awards and most recently two Grammys.

As a touring musician, as well as composer, Rahman has long been filling arenas with his elaborate and stunning live performances. Time Magazine summarized his popularity back home by saying "A.R. Rahman dominates the music industry so totally that he has supplied the sound track for a whole generation."

Rahman has sold-out international arenas including the prestigious Hollywood Bowl in 2006 and has played for crowds as large as 120,000 in his home country of India. Now, this summer, audiences have a rare opportunity to experience a must-see concert event with "A.R. Rahman Jai Ho Concert: The Jour-

ney Home World Tour."

On his forthcoming tour, Rahman will collaborate with creative director Amy Tinkham who is known for creating live musical concerts for a variety of pop-music icons including Britney Spears, the Backstreet Boys and Mariah Carey. "A.R. Rahman Jai Ho Concert: The Journey Home World Tour" will be a theatrical experience that will blend new technologies with powerful dance arrangements and acrobatics.

The concert will keep in intact the heritage and traditions of India with a new modern presentation. The show will feature changing sets, large images on LED screens and a spectacular cast of musicians and dancers from across the globe.

"Through the vast tapestry of music that is AR Rahman, he takes us on a virtual journey through beauty, culture, and spirituality," said Tinkhman. "This is uniquely Indian - both ancient and modern."

The material spans throughout AR's prolific career, including songs from Slumdog Millionaire as well as landmark Indian films Lagaan, Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na, Dil Se, Rang De Basanti and Roja'.

Roja was a run-away success and brought nationwide fame and acclaim to the Rahman. Time Magazine rated the soundtrack of Roja in the Top 10 of their all time best movie soundtracks of the world. The movie also won Rahman the

30

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India Post

The concert will keep in intact the heritage and traditions of India with a new modern presentation. The show will feature changing sets, large images on LED screens and a spectacular cast of musicians and dancers from across the globe.

‘Through the vast tapestry of music that is AR Rahman, he takes us on a virtual journey through beauty, culture, and spirituality,’ said Tinkhman Indian National Award for the best music composer, the first time ever by a debutant. Since then, Rahman has gone on to win the National Award three more times, the most ever by any music composer.

AR Rahman's music has not only redefined contemporary Indian music but also transcends boundaries. Earlier this month, Rahman traveled Australia on a journey of peace where he performed a free concert at the Sydney Festival in Australia as part of the 2010 festival program. The concert was a gesture of cultural diplomacy and goodwill by Rahman himself in an effort to ease the current tensions in Australian and Indian relations, as a result of the attacks on Indian students in Australia.

The concert was one of the most anticipated events of the three-week festival and packed in nearly 75,000 people into Parramatta Park, many of whom camped over night to see Rahman and his troupe of nearly 40 musicians and dancers.

Cont’d on page 39

June 11, 2010

June 11, 2010

India Post

31

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ACE Open launches virtual music school are priced $1000 for 50 lessons or about $20 a lesson, Chitale said the model was the cheapest and most convenient for students of quality music education anywhere in the world. "ACE will offer self-paced specialized music learning sessions around the clock where learners are not bound to a

India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: In a first-of-itskind online venture, New Jerseybased ACE Open University has launched a virtual music school with music luminaries Suresh Wadkar and Sonu Nigam among its teachers.

The music school was officially launched by Wadkar at the Holiday Inn in Edison, NJ. Wadkar's classical school of music is the first one signed up by ACE while Bickram Ghosh's School Of Percussions and Jay Oliver's Western Music are also part of the curriculum.

Emphasizing the role of music, Wadkar said, "Music makes a valuable contribution to the total education of children especially in relation to academic performance, well-being, attitudes to school and perceptions of learning." He felt it was good for Indian classical music now that it had proponents like ACE Open that could take it virtually anywhere in the world.

Award-winning singer Sonu Nigam, who joined the launch event via video phone, said ACE Open had a pivotal role in ensuring music learning was not limited by international boundaries.

Gradually, ACE Open aims to become a one-stop for world music by achieving classical literature and music from around the world Singer and music teacher Suresh Wadkar, right, with Sanjay Chitale, founder of ACE Open University, at the launch of ACE online music curriculum in Edison, NJ

"With ACE, instructors of the highest caliber can share their knowledge across national and international borders, allowing students to attend courses across physical, political, and economic boundaries," he said.

ACE has also signed up Nigam, who will be teaching voice development, professional singing and performance.

ACE, which simply stands for

Art, Culture & Entertainment, seeks to build the foundation for students to become successful professionals and passionate, thoughtful citizens using modern educational approach.

"Through a combination of strong ART core, able teaching guidance and relevant curriculum, we will enrich the lives of our students, fulfill their career objectives and help them prepare

All set for Rahman concert Cont’d from page 38

Rahman has had several high profile placements and appearances in the last year. He was featured in "The Time 100: The World's Most Influential People" as well as Fast Company's "100 Most Creative People in Business." He appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Last November, Rahman was invited to perform at The White House for the first state visit for Prime Minister Singh, hosted by President Barack Obama. Rahman was also featured in the re-make of "We Are The World" alongside Wyclef Jean, Jennifer Hudson, Barbara Streisand and Celine Dion to name a few.

AR Rahman Jai Ho: The Journey Home World Tour Dates: 11-Jun New York Nassau Coliseum 12-Jun New Jersey Broadwalk Arena 13-Jun Washington, DC Patriot Center 18-Jun Chicago Sears Center 19-Jun Detroit Silver Dome Stadium

20-Jun Toronto Air Canada Center 26-Jun San Francisco Oracle Arena 27-Jun Los Angeles Forum 2-Jul Dallas American Airlines Arena 3-Jul Houston Toyota Center 9-Jul Amsterdam Ohio Arena 13-Jul Paris Pare Des Expositions Porte De Versailles 18-Jul Oslo Spectrum 23-Jul Manchester Evening Arena 24-Jul Birmingham LG arena 25-Jul London O2 Arena

to become future leaders in the vast creative economy," said Sanjay Chitale, a serial entrepreneur, and founder of ACE Open.

Emergence of the Internet and secured delivery technologies had made it possible to accommodate on-line training cost-effectively and efficiently. E-learning can provide major benefits for the music education, said Chitale.

While the ACE Open courses

specific time to physically attend classes," he said. Other than beginner's, intermediate and advance course offerings in each school of music, ACE Open also plans to design a music appreciation course for casual listeners.

Gradually, ACE Open aims to become a one-stop for world music by achieving classical literature and music from around the world. "We will extend support to universities and colleges as their extended world music department," Chitale said.

Poking fun at love stories MUMBAI: The unusual pairing of Sonam Kapoor and Imran Khan in 'I Hate Luv Storys' has generated quite a buzz and filmmaker Karan Johar who is producing the rom-com says that it is the freshness of the two young actors which is the USP of the film.

Johar says that the film and its lead pair are sure to click with the younger generation who do not accept the old fashioned ideals of love.

"The two form a very fresh pair and that should work for the audience. In fact ever since the promotion of IHLS began, there has been excellent feedback all over. People are reacting to the freshness factor. There is a youthful energy which they bring and that is pretty much visible in the film," the filmmaker told PTI. The film which parodies the romantic cliches of Bollywood sees Sonam playing a 'filmi' romantic while Imran plays a cynic who hates love stories.

Both Imran and Sonam are new entrants in the industry and

neither have delivered a hit in the past year, but Johar is sure that their chemistry will work wonders.

Imran didn't have much luck

Imran Khan and Sonam Kapoor

running in his favor after 'Luck' and 'Kidnap' and Sonam too is yet to find her groove despite biggies like 'Saawariya' and 'Delhi 6' behind her.

"Imran has already shown so much promise in his very first film 'Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Naa'. On the other hand everyone knows that Sonam is beautiful and good at playing the girl-next-door," said Johar. -PTI

32 India Post

T

he sacred Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake, over 865 kms from Delhi, constitute one of the grandest of Himalayan beauty spots. The perpetual snow-clad peak of holy Kailas of hoary antiquity and celebrity, the spotless design of nature's art, of most bewitching and overpowering beauty, has a vibration of the supreme order from the spiritual point of view. It seems to stand as an immediate revelation of the Almighty in concrete form, which makes man bend his knees and lower his head in reverence. Its gorgeous silvery summit, resplendent with the luster of spiritual aura, pierces into a heavenly height of 6690 meters (22028 feet) above the level of the sea.

Mansarovar is the most fascinating, the most inspiring, the most famous of all lakes

www.indiapost.com

in the world and the most ancient that civilization knows. It is famous in Hindu mythology. The lake is majestically calm and dignified like a huge bluish green emerald or a pure turquoise set between two mighty and equally majestic silver mountains, the Kailas on the north and the Gurla Mandhata

with a circumference of about 88 kms and a depth of nearly 90 meters covers an area of about 320 sq. kms. By far the most magnificent and thrilling of one's experience would be in winter when the whole lake freezes hard, and again in spring when the ice breaks and melts to clear blue waters. It is only the

At sunset the whole of the Kailas range in the north becomes a fiery region all of a sudden, throwing an observer into a trance, and by the time he returns to consciousness he sees only the Silvery Peak in front on the south and between the sister lake Rakshas Tal or Ravan Harda on the west and some hills on the east.

Stretching majestically over an extensive cradle of the Tibetan plateau and hanging at a heavenly height of 4550 mts (14950 feet) above sea-level, the vast expanse of the lake

inspired poet or the divine artist with his magic colors that can, for instance, describe and represent adequately the beauty and grandeur of sunrise and sunset on the lake.

The water of Mansarovar is as sweet as that of any river or of any glacial lake. The holy manas provides fine caves, camping ground

June 11, 2010

and good sites to pilgrims. At certain places the site is rocky or sandy. On full moon nights, with the full moon overhead, the scene is simply indescribable.

At sunset the whole of the Kailas range in the north becomes a fiery region all of a sudden, throwing an observer into a trance, and by the time he returns to consciousness he sees only the Silvery Peak in front.

The weather is always uncertain. One moment you have scorching Sun, the next moment it begins to hail and snow and shortly after having a nap and coming out of your camp, you will see a clear blue sky and bright Sun above and a bed of pearllike hail and white snow on the ground.

Cont’d on page 34

June 11, 2010

Travel & Hospitality Post

India Post

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HP told to prepare vision document for tourism SHIMLA: Union Tourism Minister Kumari Selja has asked the Himachal Pradesh government to prepare a "vision document" on tourism development for seeking central assistance.

"Himachal is endowed with immense natural beauty and bracing climate has vast tourism potential but so far only few areas have been explored," she told the media after inaugurating the 'Himachal Haat' near Kandaghat, 26 km from here.

"Let the government submit a vision document and the Centre will consider funding of projects," she said adding the Union government was serious about development of tourism across the country and would help state governments.

On the introduction of the 'Haat' (market) concept in Himachal Pradesh, the minister said other states should also follow it.

Neighboring states should collaborate for the development of tourism, she said giving the ex-

Union Tourism Minister Kumari Selja

Neighboring states should collaborate for the development of tourism, she said giving the example of the development of Morni Hills circuit by Himachal Pradesh and Haryana governments ample of the development of Morni Hills circuit by Himachal Pradesh and Haryana governments.

Goa banks on Poles & Russians for tourism PANAJI: After losing tourists from Western Europe, Goa is now banking on travelers from Russia and Poland to revive the sagging tourism industry in the state.

Travel Tourism Association of Goa (TTAG) has said the scene was disappointing on the Western Europe tourist front, but the loss is, to some extent, compensated by Russians' attraction towards the state.

Also, arrivals from Poland went up, giving a fillip to the foreign exchange earning sector reeling under the impact of a global economic slowdown and the Mumbai terror attacks.

"Around 2,000 Polish tourists arrived in the state, which was a new feature this season," Ernest Dias, a TTAG official, told PTI. The tourism industry was expecting a 25 to 30 per cent drop in tourist arrivals from Englishspeaking countries. But arrival of 40,000-odd Russians made up for the loss.

"Russians are better spending

tourists compared to English," TTAG President Ralf de Souza said.

The tourism industry also felt the impact of Iceland's volcanic eruption which crippled flight services across Europe for several

Arrivals from Poland went up, giving a fillip to the foreign exchange earning sector reeling under the impact of a global economic slowdown and the Mumbai terror attacks days last month. A number of charter flights to Goa were cancelled in the wake of the incident.

"We had to wrap up the season a bit early after flights were cancelled due to volcanic ash," Bonnie D'Souza, an office-bearer and exTTAG President said. -PTI

When asked about the expansion of Jubbar-Hatti airport near Shimla, Seilja said development of the airport in all states from the point of view of tourism was on the agenda of the government.

The Haat at Hotel Destination, inaugurated by Selja, was opened to the people about 10 days ago and promoters provided stalls to locals to exhibit their handicrafts and sell culinary delights.

However, some of the exhibitors claimed that the number of visitors to the stalls was very low.

"We have put up the stall of our product in the Haat for the last one week but only two visitors dropped in and there was no sale at all," said a man working at a stall.

Arun Sharma, the Director of the State Tourism department said, "The tourism department has no role in running of the Haat and is only confined to advertising the concept and launch. Now, it depends upon the management of the hotel how it makes the idea a concept. -PTI

Kargil war fame Batalik opens to tourists SRINAGAR: Batalik, which witnessed intense battle between Pakistani intruders and Indian army during 1999 Kargil war, was opened to tourists with a threeday tourists Mela (fair) taking off in Dard Tribal area of Darchaks.

The fair aimed at attracting tourists to Batalik, 220 kms from here, has been organized by the state Tourism department.

Inaugurating the fair, Chief Executive of Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC), Kargil, Kachoo Ahmad Ali said opening of Batalik, located at a height of about 2000 feet, to tourists would provide employment opportunities to the youths.

Ghulam Hassan Khan, Lok Sabha member from Ladakh, in his address impressed upon the local people to convert their houses into guest houses to earn from tourism.

He announced allotting Rs 2.50 lakh from his MPLAD fund for preserving heritage spots of the area.-PTI

Array of cultural events in Delhi during Games NEW DELHI: India's rich cultural diversity will be on display during the 12-day long Commonwealth Games with both Organizing Committee and Delhi Government finalizing a series of events across the city to offer a taste of the country's music, dance and folklore to the visitors.

Delhi Government has already selected 15 venues in the city where cultural festivals will be held regularly during the course of the event to be held here from October 3 to 14.

"This is a great opportunity for us to showcase our cultural heritage to the entire world and we are putting a lot of efforts to carefully select the programs for the events," said a senior official in the Chief Minister's office.

He said regular cultural programs will be held in venues including the Games Village, Red Fort, Mehrauli Fort, Purana Qila, Kamani auditorium during the Games -- the biggest sporting event to be held in India.

All the cultural events in the

city during the Games will be organized by Delhi Government in close coordination with Union Culture Ministry and the Games Organizing Committee.

The programs will feature folk and classical dances, classical music, fusion music, theatre and films as well as other creative skills, arts and crafts.

Not willing to divulge details of the cultural programs, the official only said a host of renowned artistes and singers will perform in the events.

"All the cultural programs are being selected very very carefully as we want the spectators keep the memories of the events for a long time," the official said.

He said to cater to taste of young visitors, programs featuring fusion music and dance will also be held.

Another official said Government has already roped in renowned theatre director Aamir Raza Hussain to stage shows at Red Fort and Quli Khan tomb at Mehrauli. -PTI

34

Travel & Hospitality Post

India Post

June 11, 2010

www.indiapost.com

Kailash-Mansarovar: Famous pilgrimage center for four religions Cont’d from page 32

The world-famous and holy Mt. Kailash & Manas Lake have been, the source of inspiration for many religions and beliefs. Despite many difficulties and long distances, people are keen to go there at least once in their lifetime. Continued from centuries, this pilgrimage was stopped from 1959 to 1980. When it restarted in 1981 it was welcomed everywhere. Hundreds of Indians thus got the op-

portunity to go through this region. Situated on the other side of Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Kailash and Mansarovar are the most pious and most beautiful shrines.

Also, from religious point of view, these are highly regarded.

Darshan and 'parikrama' of Kailash and Mansarovar is considered as uncommonly pious by the believers of four religions Bonpa, Hindu, Buddhist and Jain.

Bonpa, the ancient Tibetans,

see a nine story 'swastik' in it and consider it an abode of Damchauk and Dorge Phangmo. Hindus worship it as the abode of Shiva and

Mt. Kailash and Mansarovar in Tibet are always very near to the hearts of Indians.

Due to Mansarovar, Uttarakhand is also termed as Manas-Khand Parvati. Buddhists believe it to be the home of Buddha and Manipadam and Jains worship it as the place of "Nirwan of First Tirthankar".

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Near Mansarovar there is a beautiful lake called Rakash Tal or Ravehahalad. In the north of these two lakes is Mt. Kailash and its series (22028 ft./6675 mts.) in the south Mount Gurala is situated. From this region four big rivers of north India originate' Karnalies, Satluj, Brahamputra and Sindh.

Mt. Kailash and Mansarovar in Tibet are always very near to the hearts of Indians. Due to Mansarovar, Uttarakhand is also termed as Manas-Khand.

In winter all mountains and river lakes are frozen and covered with snow, so the time of yatra is from May to September. Indian pilgrims visit from June to Septem-

ber in 16 batches. (30-40 in every batch). Foreign Ministry of Indian Government advertises this pilgrimage. Selected people go through medical tests and other formalities before they do yatra in batches. The management of this yatra is done by Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam Ltd. in Indian region and Tibetan tourism agency in Tibet respectively.

Kailash Mansarovar yatra begins PITHORAGARH, Uttarakhand: The annual pilgrimage to Kailash Mansarovar began with first batch of 49 members reaching Almora after leaving New Delhi, official sources said.

The batch, which includes eight women pilgrims, was flagged off by Surendra Singh Jeena, Chairman of Kumaon Mandal Vikas Nigam (KMVN), the nodal agency for yatra arrangement in New Delhi, said Ashok Joshi, General Manager (Tourism) KMVN.

The motor road up to Mangti, from where 70 km long trek for 5334-meter high LipuLekh pass starts, is being cleared of mild landslides that hit the area recently, said an official of ITBP, which takes charge of yatra after Gunji camp The motor road up to Mangti, from where 70 km long trek for 5334meter high Lipu-Lekh pass starts, is being cleared of mild landslides that hit the area recently, said an official of ITBP, which takes charge of yatra after Gunji camp.

He said the ITBP has not only deputed a team of three doctors for medical check up but also deployed 45 member disaster mitigation team at disaster-prone areas.

The 644-km long pilgrimage passes through five camps that include Gala (2018 mt), Bundi (2740 mt), Gunji (3300 mt), Kalapani (3370 mt) and Nabhidhang (3370 mt) before crossing Lipu-Lekh pass.

The yatra concludes in Tibet where the pilgrims take holy dip in the Mansarovar Lake and undertake parikrama of Mount Kailash. -PTI

Briefs

Akshardham terror case: HC upholds death sentence

AHMEDABAD: The Gujarat High Court has upheld the death sentence awarded to three convicts by a POTA court for the 2002 Akashardham terror attack by Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Toiba terrorists in which 32 people were killed.

The division bench of Justices R M Doshit and K M Thakar, while pronouncing the verdict, rejected the appeal of six convicts, including the three given death sentence, against the POTA court judgment.

The court observed that the six accused were involved in the entire conspiracy to attack Akshardham temple in Gandhinagar on September 24, 2002, which was backed by Lashkar-e-Toiba, public prosecutor J M Panchal said.

Reporters were not allowed inside the court during the pronouncement of judgment which was delivered during in-camera proceedings. -PTI

Art of Living unhappy with Chidambaram BANGALORE: The Art of Living Foundation has expressed "displeasure" over what it described as "hasty and damaging" statement of Union Home Minister P Chidambaram on Sunday's shooting incident at its ashram here, over which conflicting versions have emerged.

"Without any basis, one cannot jump to conclusions that there are conflicting groups or there was a brawl. Such a statement from a person holding such a responsible position was unwarranted," the Foundation said. -PTI

'President Patil's visit fruitful and successful'

BEIJING: China has termed the just concluded visit of President Pratibha Patil here as a "fruitful and successful" one, saying it would "definitely" help promote development of bilateral ties between the two Asian giants.

"I believe it was a fruitful and successful visit," Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ma Zhaoxu said at a media briefing here when asked about the Chinese assessment of President Patil's six-day state visit, first by Indian head of state in a decade. -PTI

India News 35

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Court rejects bail plea of Abdul Samad Bhatkal MUMBAI: A local court has rejected the bail plea of Abdul Samad Bhatkal, a suspect in the Pune German Bakery blast, saying that since the probe was on, it would not be safe to release him.

23-year-old Samad sought bail soon after he was remanded in judicial custody till June 14 by Metropolitan Magistrate M V Morale in connection with a 2009 arms seizure case. -PTI

Mamata cracks CPM citadel in West Bengal KOLKATA: Riding the winds of political change, Mamata Banerjee's Trinamool Congress won the 141-ward city municipal corporation polls, inflicting a crushing blow to the ruling Left Front in the civic elections, dubbed as a semi-final before next year's Assembly polls.

In Sunday's election to a total of 81 civic bodies across 16 districts in West Bengal, TC also tasted success in the districts where it alone bagged 20 of 43 municipalities, the results for which were available till noon.

The party bagged another eight civic bodies where it had local-level seat adjustment with the Congress.

The Left Front registered wins in 12 municipalities while Congress lagged behind winning only in three.

The Trinamool Congress, which had already won two-thirds majority in the 141-member KMC, will not need the support of the Congress to rule Kolkata where her party has already captured 94 of the 135 wards the results of which were available.

The Left Front which was in power in KMC with 75 wards has

FACE OF VICTORY: Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee gestures during a press conference in Kolkata, on June 2

Elated over Trinamool's success, Banerjee demanded immediate Assembly elections, saying Left Front major CPI (M) has lost all rights to continue in power managed to win in only 29 wards.

The Congress has so far got nine and the BJP three seats.

In the 2005 KMC polls, Left parties had won 75 seats, TC 42, Congress 21 and BJP three.

Congratulating Banerjee on her party's performance, Finance Min-

ister Pranab Mukherjee, who is also the West Bengal Congress chief, said he accepted the people's verdict.

Mukherjee, speaking to reporters in New Delhi, said "First of all, I would like to congratulate Mamata Banerjee for her excellent

performance both in Kolkata and also in the districts. I accept the failure of the Congress to perform up to the expectations which we had. I accept the verdict of the people with all humility," Mukherjee said.

Elated over Trinamool's success, Banerjee demanded immediate Assembly elections, saying Left Front major CPI (M) has lost all rights to continue in power.

Terming her party's success as "historic", she told reporters after arriving from Delhi, "It is a victory of the ma-mati-manush (mother, land and the people). They have given a verdict in favor of political change in the state. I salute the people."

In an obvious reference to her party's failed alliance with Congress for the KMC polls, Banerjee said, "In this election, we had to fight against the ruling party and three to four other forces."

The Trinamool Congress has not only dislodged the CPI(M) from power in the KMC, in the adjoining Salt Lake (Bidhannagar) municipality the erosion of the Left's support base was more pronounced with Banerjee's party bagging 16 of the total 25 wards. - PTI

'Guide to Eternal Happiness and Peace' released India Post News Service

NEW DELHI: The book, "My questions and God's Answers"Guide to Eternal Happiness, Peace, and Anandam, was released during the Maha Kumbh in Rishikesh (India) by BJP leader Lal Krishan Advani, blessed by Swami Chidanand Saraswati and several saints on the holy banks of Ganga. Several thousand people witnessed the divine occasion.

Many interpretations of Srimad Bhagwad Gita have been done till date. However the latest analysis, done by Mrs. Satya Kalra is not just a philosophic commentary of the Gita, but a practical spiritual guide that provides a map of life and shows

the many ways available to reach one's unlimited potential. It takes you through a spiritual journey and guides you step-by-step to overcome the daily predicaments

and helps enhance the quality of life. It evokes Everlasting, Happiness and Peace, Anandam feelings in the mind of readers. It answers all queries of all categories

of reader.

In the book, the teachings of the Gita have been presented in a question and answer format with beautiful color graphics, flow charts and tables. The presentation is so simple that contemporary, young and modern readers can easily understand and apply these teachings in their daily life, rise above dayto-day challenges and enjoy their life to the fullest.

The book is a culmination of Satya Karla's personal quest for Truth, and a means to spread the message to fellow seekers. She is a former CEO, spiritual seeker and founder of Path to Anandam (nonprofit organization). She is the author of series of Path to Anandam pocket books.

36

June 11, 2010

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Health

Line

Groups seek to block health ordinance

FORT WAYNE, Ind.: A planned lawsuit claims a new ordinance set to go into effect in the county that includes Fort Wayne unconstitutionally interferes with women's rights to obtain abortions.

The lawsuit will ask a judge to block the ordinance that takes effect in Allen County, which would regulate out-of-town providers of abortion and other medical services.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana and the New York-based Center for Reproductive Rights say they're suing the Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health on behalf of Dr. George Klopfer, who runs an abortion clinic in the northeastern Indiana city. -AP

Health Science 38

India Post

www.indiapost.com

June 11, 2010

Medical Center Foundation. "This extremely generous gift will assist in the creation of an all-inclusive neuroscience center, the next enhancement to Somerset Medical Center's commitment to the residents of our county."

Idaho health district has spare swine flu vaccine

Obama lawyers argue for SF health law SAN FRANCISCO: The Obama administration is taking San Francisco's side in a legal dispute over the city's landmark health care law.

Government lawyers filed arguments urging the Supreme Court to reject an appeal by San Francisco restaurant owners who oppose paying part of the $200 million annual cost. They say the case doesn't present any pressing issues that require the high court's review.

The Healthy San Francisco program, which passed in 2006, is intended to offer care to uninsured adults not covered by the MediCal program for the poor or Medicare for the elderly. -AP

OMAHA, Neb.: Officials at an Omaha hospital say human error led to the death of a toddler being treated at one of its health centers. -AP

Indian Assn raises $15,000 for Somerset Medical Center

TWIN FALLS, Idaho: The South Central Public Health District has about 13,500 spare doses of the swine flu vaccine.

Director Rene LeBlanc said 930 will expire by the end of June and the rest will lose their potency in 2011.

LeBlanc said the district received about 29,000 doses and vaccinated about 20 percent of the south-central Idaho population before residents felt the risk had passed. ``The problem is the public feels the need for it is over,'' LeBlanc told The Times-News earlier. ``It's still good to go out and get it.''

Swine flu, also know as H1N1, raised fears of a global pandemic when it emerged last year. -AP

Human error led to child's death

In addition to the long term mission of fostering Indian cultural activities for its members, IASC believes in reaching out to positively impact the life of all residents in the community Ken Bateman, president and CEO of SMC (3rd from right) and Paul Huegel (5th from right) accepting the check from the members of Indian Association's management team (left to right): Chetan Sheth, Dr. Shivang Trivedi, Amit Rathod, Subhash Shah, Ajay Parekh, Kiran (Perry) Kothari, Dr. Sharan Mahal, Utkarsh Desai, Ajay Shah, and Anjali Shah India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: The Indian Association of Somerset County (IASC), a not-for-profit community organization with over 300 member families, sponsored and raised $15,000 at a

gala "Bollywood Music" fundraising event for the benefit of Somerset Medical Center (SMC) recently. Live musicians entertained the guests with popular Bollywood songs and brought everyone to their feet including the SMC staff members.

"Somerset Medical Center is extremely proud of our growing partnership with the Indian Association of Somerset County and our shared belief in making a difference in our community," said Paul Huegel, President of Somerset

Utkarsh Desai, President of IASC expressed his sincere gratitude to all the donors and congratulated the Trustees, the Executive Committee Members and the hardworking volunteers for the success of the event.

In addition to the long term mission of fostering Indian cultural activities for its members, IASC believes in reaching out to positively impact the life of all residents in the community.

Tech hurdler defeats cancer, foes MONROE, La.: Diagnosed with colon cancer - the third deadliest form of cancer in the United States - following her freshman season at Louisiana Tech, Antoinette Cobb fought the disease with the same zeal she uses to compete on the track.

As a result, she not only became one of the best 100-meter hurdlers in the world, Cobb is a Tech honor graduate headed toward medical school. Not bad for someone who never wanted to compete at the collegiate level.

The news came after the 2006 outdoor season which saw Cobb, a former West Feliciana High School star, earn All-WAC honors when she finished second in the hurdles.

She and several family members were stricken with what they believed was food poisoning.

Their illness cleared up quickly Cobb's did not. She visited her

primary physician, who recommended she see Dr. Christopher McCanless in Baton Rouge. ``I thought only old people got that,'' Cobb said recently. ``I was in shock. Over the summer I was going to different (Internet) sites trying to figure out what was wrong. At least three times it came

waiting room during her threetimes-a-week treatments. ``I was the youngest person there, so there was no one my age to talk to. There were people there going through chemo for the fifth time. I was just grateful to make it through my first round,'' Cobb said. ``Mostly I isolated myself

She and several family members were stricken with what they believed was food poisoning. Their illness cleared up quickly - Cobb's did not back to cancer, but I didn't want to believe that. Even after the diagnosis, I was still in shock.''

Fully 90 percent of colon cancer patients in the country are over age 50, according to the Colon Cancer Prevention Center. That's why Cobb sat mostly alone in the

from friends and teammates at the time. I felt they were pitying me, and I didn't want pity. I'm a private person. I wanted to be (at Tech) but I couldn't be.''

It was something from above that helped her through the ordeal. ``My faith. Once I prayed about

it, I wasn't worried about it anymore,'' Cobb said.

While the treatments initially slowed her on the track, she has recovered to become the 35thfastest 100-meter hurdler in the world (14th in the country at 13.22), while owning four WAC titles either indoors or outdoors.

The top time in the country this year is 12.61 by Queen Harrison of Virginia Tech. But Cobb was the heavy favorite to win the 100-meter hurdles in the WAC competition.

More importantly, Cobb graduated cum laude from Tech last spring with a 3.68 grade point average in biology with a concentration in biological sciences and a minor in chemistry. She's currently pursuing a master's degree in biology and is applying to medical schools around the country.

Cont’d on page 39

Health Science Post

June 11, 2010

India Post

39

www.indiapost.com

Enacting health overhaul Tech hurdler defeats cancer, foes a daunting task CHARLESTON, W.Va.: It's a late Thursday afternoon, and Martha Walker has just finished her umpteenth conference call addressing the sprawling federal overhaul of the nation's health care system.

As Walker explained to lawmakers a few days earlier, these phone sessions have become a recurring feature of her work schedule: at least three a week with other members of a National Governors Association task force, and a separate batch for a multi-state coalition of agencies expected to carry out the changes. There are four or five other conference calls a week, and Internet-based ``webinars'' as well. ``Everybody is sort of feeling their way along,'' Walker told The Associated Press. ``The answer to a lot of our questions is, 'We're not sure about that yet. We'll track that down and get back to you.' It's all so new.''

Walker is acting director of the Governor's Office of Health Enhancement and Lifestyle Planning, or GOHELP. The Legislature created the agency last year partly

to help the state implement any health care changes that might emerge from Congress. ``We're not necessarily the subject matter experts on any of these things. We're here to coordinate,'' Walker said.

But that alone appears to be a daunting task. The health care leg-

Its numerous provisions will require U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius to issue more than 100 different sets of rules islation clocked in at over 900 pages, Walker noted. Its numerous provisions will require U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius to issue more than 100 different sets of rules.

Then there are the looming deadlines: June 21 for setting up the temporary high-risk pools meant to cover those uninsured

because of pre-existing medical conditions; July 1 for a state-specific Web site explaining the revamped health care choices to consumers; Sept. 23 for initial insurance market changes. ``The law is extremely complex with significant changes to existing programs and many new programs,'' Walker told members of the House-Senate Select Committee on Health. ``As you might expect, these initiatives present opportunities and challenges for us collectively.''

Those challenges include costs. Insurance plans, for, instance, must begin extending coverage to policyholders' children until they reach 26. For programs such as the state's Public Employee's Insurance Agency, that's expected to increase annual policy costs by $3,380 per dependent starting with the coverage year that begins July 1, 2011.

West Virginia's hospitals, meanwhile, have told Walker that reimbursement rates from federal health care programs will plummet by a combined $1.2 billion over the next decade. -AP

Cont’d from page 38

Tech assistant biology professor Jeff Yule was impressed with Cobb after she was in his ecology class as an undergraduate and also in his research methods in biological sciences class as a graduate student. ``What's great about Antoinette is that she's busy, she works hard and she never complains about anything. Other students who really don't have much on their plates will complain, but she never does,'' Yule said. ``She quietly hunkers down, does a real good job. Always impresses you.

Always makes you feel glad to have her in the class.''

Yule said the entire biology department feels the same way about Cobb. ``You have one like her, you wish you could have 10 more, a hundred more, a million more. You wish all your kids could be just like she is,'' he said. ``(The cancer is) the thing that puts us over the top and makes us just love this kid. She doesn't say, 'Oh, woe is me. You should all feel sorry for me.' She does good work all the while.''

Cobb underwent the requisite chemo treatments, losing 25 critical pounds and much of the strength she had built from years of track competition. Tech assistant coach Charles Ryan wasn't sure how to handle Cobb when he was hired the year she returned from chemo. ``I just wanted to get through the season without sending the girl back to the hospital,'' Ryan said. ``My first impression of her was, 'darn, she must be a mentally strong kid' to go through something like that and come back out here and want to compete.''

It didn't take Ryan long to realize there were something special about Cobb which had little to do with her athletic ability. ``About halfway through the season, I realized how determined she was,'' Ryan said. ``And even though she is nowhere near the most talented kid on our roster, she just wants things more than anyone else, and she works harder than everybody. It's that commitment and that willingness to do whatever she has to do that's put her in the position she's in right now.'' -AP

In Brief 500 rally at AT&T Park over Ariz. immigration law SAN FRANCISCO: A crowd of about 500 people gathered outside the home of the San Francisco Giants and used a baseball game between the Giants and Arizona Diamondbacks to protest Arizona's tough new crackdown on illegal immigration.

Leaders of the rally, a group calling itself the May Day 2010 Coalition, said the protest outside AT&T Park was organized to call for a boycott against Arizona.

The law, set to take effect July 29, requires that police conducting traffic stops or questioning people about possible legal violations ask them about their immigration status if there is ``reasonable suspicion'' that they're in the country illegally. -AP

NV group seeks Ariz. boycott over immigration law RENO, Nev.: A Nevada group is pressing the cities of Reno and Las Vegas to support a boycott of Arizona over its sweeping new immigration law.

The Progressive Leadership Alliance of Nevada wants the city councils to reject any new contracts with Arizona-based companies to protest the law. ``I think our local government should not use our tax dollars to help support the economy of a state that endorses racial profiling,'' said Bob Fulkerson, director of the Reno-based group.

Reno City Councilman Dave Aiazzi questioned whether the request would have any practical effect. -AP

Backlog grows at Las Vegas immigration court LAS VEGAS: A backlog at the Las Vegas Immigration Court is slowing deportations.

The backlog reached nearly 1,600 cases in March, up 38 percent from the figure 18 months earlier and the second highest rate in the nation.

In all, the Las Vegas Immigration Court dealt with nearly 4,400 immigration matters in 2009, up from about 3,500 a year before.

Experts say the growing caseload reflects enforcement changes.

The Metropolitan Police Department in Las Vegas in late 2008 became one of more than 70 law enforcement agencies nationwide to forge a partnership with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement. -AP

Immigration

Ariz. Gov., AG at odds on defending immigration law Details on page 42

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www.indiapost.com

June 11, 2010

Forum on immigrants rights & struggle to exercise them NISHA SUTARIA

CHICAGO: Indo-American Center (IAC), a Chicago based no profit body, hosted last week a town hall meeting of the "One Community United" campaign, providing an open forum for community members to learn more about immigration reform and human rights in the South Asian community, while discussing the challenges and possible solutions associated with these pressing issues.

"One Community United" is a campaign on immigrant and civil rights coordinated by the National Coalition of South Asian Organization (NCSAO) to promote community dialogue on human immigration law and civil rights protection (www.saalt.org).

The discussion was facilitated by a presentation compiled by South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT), focusing on

the intersection of human rights and immigration policy. The discussion examined the relevance of immigration reform to the South Asian community in particular.

"Indians have the sixth largest undocumented population in the United States. But when I talk to people in our community about that, everyone is shocked,"

crepancy between the rights immigrants are entitled to and the rights that many immigrants have struggled to exercise.

The topics of discussion revolved around underlying issues, including the relationship between globalization and immigration. In addressing the disconnect between outsourcing jobs to In-

‘Unfortunately, the window for comprehensive immigration reform is closing and it is closing fast. We need to push our President to make this happen’ shared Vega Subramanian, program facilitator and Director of Programs and Partnerships with SAALT. Additionally, video clips were shared to fuel discussion about individuals' first-hand experiences and broader discussion of the issues in context, showing the dis-

dia and employment restrictions of Indian immigrants in the United States, one attendee asked: "Why is it so easy to send jobs away, but so hard for an immigrant to get a job here?"

Jenn Kons, Program Associate at the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR),

explained the dire need for the community to act now: "Unfortunately, the window for comprehensive immigration reform is closing and it is closing fast. We need to push our President to make this happen. We need to bring on our business owners, our religious leaders, our whole community.

Make this an issue. Make it an issue now."

This event was co-sponsored by over half a dozen no profit social organizations and agencies in Chicagoland. IAC that sponsored this forum is a not-for-profit community service organization serving the South Asian immigrant population.

The IAC mission is to promote the well being of South Asian immigrants through services that facilitate their adjustment, integration and friendship with the wider society, nurture their sense of community, and foster appreciation for their heritage and culture.

Surrender of passport rule outrages overseas Indians CYRUS D. MEHTA

T

he new rules requiring overseas Indians to re nounce Indian citizenship and surrender the Indian passport after they have taken up the citizenship of another country misinterpret the provisions of the Indian Citizenship Act, 1955. The guidance, including Frequently Asked Questions, can be found on the website of the Indian Consulate in New York.

According to the guidance, the Indian passport must be surrendered within 90 days of US naturalization even if the US passport is obtained later. A fee of $175 has been imposed to surrender the Indian passport.

Additional monetary penalties are imposed on those who failed to surrender the passport within three years of acquiring US citizenship or for travelling on the Indian passport or applying for its reissuance after US citizenship. The new rules are espe-

cially harsh on those who may have obtained US citizenship many decades ago and who may have lost their Indian passports.

An applicant who has lost, damaged or surrendered his or her Indian passport to a foreign government must furnish certified copies of the following documents: 1. Details of last held Indian

3. Notarized letter explaining reasons for loss.

4. Police report.

Failure to comply with the surrender policy will likely deprive a person of Indian origin to obtain an Indian visa, an OCI/PIO card or other consular services.

The provision for termination of Indian citizenship is separate

It is unfair to penalize a person for failing to surrender the passport when there was no established procedure to do so prior to the recent guidance passport (Passport No., Date of Issue & Place of issue). The onus of providing details rest on the applicant.

2. Official documents submitted to authorities of new country at the time of obtaining citizenship/ naturalization & documents used for entry such as US Form I -130.

and distinct from the provision for making a declaration of renunciation. While renunciation of citizenship is covered in Section 8 of the Citizenship Act 1955 and has to be applied on a prescribed form by a citizen of India, automatic termination of citizenship, which occurs when one takes up the citi-

zenship of another country, is covered under Section 9 and requires no formal application to the Indian government.

It is clear that a person cannot use the Indian passport to travel when he or she becomes a US citizen as Indian citizenship has automatically terminated under Section 9.

There may also probably be a basis for establishing rules requiring surrender of the passport that has been rendered invalid under Section 9, although it is unfair to penalize a person for failing to surrender the passport when there was no established procedure to do so prior to the recent guidance.

However, the Surrender Form, i n d i a c g n y. o r g / U s e r F i l e s / Renunciation%20Form(2).pdf, requiring renunciation of Indian citizenship, does not make sense.

One cannot renounce citizenship when it has ceased to exist.

Cont’d on page 42

Immigration Post

June 11, 2010

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Ariz. Governor inundated with immigration law letters PHOENIX: In the weeks before she signed Arizona's tough new immigration law, Gov. Jan Brewer's office was inundated with letters, e-mails, faxes and phone calls, with more than 90 percent urging her to veto the legislation.

But since she signed the bill on April 23, the tide has turned. Now, more than 2/3 of the calls and letters she is receiving are from supporters. ``I am writing to congratulate you on signing the law giving police officers the right to question people about their immigration status if they suspect someone is in the country illegally,'' wrote retiree Ann Hardy of Seekonk, Ma., a small town outside Providence, R.I. ``Good for Arizona! It's about time that someone had the guts to do something!''

Brewer's Office of Constituent Services handles the governor's mail and calls, and has tallied more than 117,000 contacts since the law began working its way through the Legislature early this year. That's the most of any issue in years, staffers say.

The 63,100 contacts the office tallied before Brewer acted contained only about 6,000 letters or calls in support, said constituent services Director Lupe Lerma. The totals may contain some duplicates because some people call or write more than once, so Lerma could only provide the raw numbers.

An Associated Press reporter reviewed several hundred of the letters. The contacts included letters from groups like the National Council of La Raza and Reform Immigration for America that had

hundreds of online signatures.

Many were missives from business owners or citizens.

Many of the messages sent before the law's signing echoed the words written by Nina Thurmes of Scottsdale. ``Please don't sign this terrible legislation into law,'' Thurmes wrote. ``I'm for convicting criminals (legal or illegal) but this law will certainly target the Hispanic population at a higher rate. There are so many other priorities than arresting and deporting hard working

A survey done by the Pew Research Center shows 59 percent of Americans approved of the law and only 32 percent disapproved people. As a Latina, card carrying Republican, the party of Lincoln, this legislation imposes the view of a few into the execution of law enforcement.''

But with national attention focused on the state, the mix changed once the governor signed the bill.

Brewer's office has received more than 54,000 letters, calls and e-mails since she acted, and 67 percent support her action.

The sweeping legislation makes it a crime under state law to be in the country illegally. It would also require local police officers to question people about their immi-

gration status during other lawful police contacts if there is reason to suspect they are in illegally. The law goes into effect on July 29 unless federal court challenges filed by several groups are successful.

President Barack Obama has said he believed the measure could violate people's civil rights and he has instructed the Justice Department to see if it is legal. A team of top federal prosecutors met with Arizona's attorney general and the governor's staff, signaling the administration is prepared to go to court to block the law.

They asked a series of questions, hoping to elicit information from state officials regarding the administration's concerns over the new law. The federal officials' trip to Phoenix also was an effort to see if the two sides can find common ground in the debate, which has re-ignited immigration as a major political issue nationwide.

National polls have shown strong support for the new Arizona law. A survey done by the Pew Research Center shows 59 percent of Americans approved of the law and only 32 percent disapproved. Other polls showed similar or greater support.

A spokeswoman for Brewer said she was well aware of the support her office is fielding and was not surprised her action was drawing support.

Many letters reaching the governor after she signed the bill into law echoed those of Hardy, a retiree who lives in the home she was born in 76 years ago and says she votes independent. -AP

India Post

41

42

Immigration Post

India Post

June 11, 2010

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Surrender of passport rule outrages overseas Indians Cont’d from page 40

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able with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three months, or with fine which may extend to five hundred rupees, or with both."

This rule, which the Indian government appears to be relying on, is ambiguous and appears to apply more readily to one who holds a valid Indian passport and is applying for another, rather than one who ceases to have a valid Indian

It is important that the Indian government continues to maintain goodwill with the overseas Indian community. The new rules merely antagonize the community passport by operation of Section 9 of the Citizenship Act and has been issued a US passport.

In any event, the Indian consulates in the US never had a formal procedure for surrendering a passport until the recent guidance.

Even when a person applied for the OCI card and handed in the Indian passport with the intention to surrender the document, the

Indian Consulate merely cancelled it. We are now told that such a cancellation will not be considered a valid surrender of the Indian passport, and a person who in good faith handed in the Indian passport earlier will have to pay additional penalties above the $175 basic fee for surrender.

It is important that the Indian government continues to maintain goodwill with the overseas Indian community. The new rules merely antagonize the community and there is absolutely no need for this.

There surely is a better way to implement a surrender policy of invalid Indian passports on a prospective basis, without also requiring renunciation, rather than the clumsy and arbitrary way it has been handled so far. The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin has launched a campaign requesting the government to reconsider the retroactive enforcement of the new rule.

(The author thanks Ramya Mahesh, associate at Little & Co., Advocates and Solicitors, Mumbai, India, for her invaluable assistance with this article) * Cyrus D Mehta, may be contacted at 212-425-0555 or info@cyrusmehta.com

Ariz. Gov., AG at odds on defending immigration law

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Under Section 9, Indian citizenship was automatically terminated when the person took up the citizenship of another country. On the other hand, Section 8 provides for a citizen of India to renounce Indian citizenship, and it should be noted that the words "who is also a citizen or national of another country" were deleted from Section 8 by Act 6 of 2004. Thus, a person who is no longer a citizen of India cannot renounce Indian citizenship.

Rule 13 of the Passport Rules, 1980 states that "[a] person holding a passport or travel document shall not be entitled to another passport or travel document unless he surrenders to the passport authority the passport or travel document already held by him."

Rule 13 further states, "Provided that separate passports or travel documents may be issued to the same person in respect of different countries if it is necessary so to do for facilitating his visits to such countries." Section 12 (3) of the Passport Act, 1967 states that "[w]hoever contravenes any condition of a passport or travel document or any provision of this Act or any rule made thereunder for which no punishment is provided elsewhere shall be punish-

PHOENIX: Top state officials are at odds over whose lawyers will represent the state to defend its new law targeting illegal immigration, with Democratic Attorney General Terry Goddard contending Republican Gov. Jan Brewer can't kick him off the case.

Brewer announced that she was invoking a provision in the law to have private attorneys represent the state. They already are representing her in some of the legal challenges to the law that name her as a defendant.

Goddard's top aide said, how-

ever, that Brewer cannot invoke the provision because it doesn't take effect until July 29. And she may not be able to keep Goddard from representing the state anyway, Chief Deputy Attorney General Tim Nelson said. ``We have real concerns about the constitutionality of that,'' Nelson said. ``It's an open question.''

Goddard has criticized the sweeping law but said he would vigorously defend it from the pending challenges. He also said he urged Justice Department officials during meeting to not file their own

legal challenge to the law.

Brewer said she decided to have her own lawyers represent the state partly because Goddard previously criticized the law. She also cited his ``curious coordination'' with Justice Department officials concerning the law. ``The Legislature gave me this authority because of its lack of confidence in the attorney general's willingness to vigorously defend this legislation that is so critical to protecting the safety and welfare of Arizona's citizens,'' Brewer said in her statement. -AP

„

Realty Tidbits

Aamby Valley to go green with Japanese help

Real Estate

J

apanese government in coor dination with the Sahara group is working towards making the Aamby Valley City an environment and energy efficient model for the world. Japanese Prime Minister Yikio Hatoyama recently met Sahara Group Chairman Subrata Roy to discuss the proposal.

Aamby Valley City has been chosen as one of the two cities in the world by the Japanese government to be developed as a model eco friendly city for the world. It also falls within the region earmarked for the Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor Project (DMIC), the State-sponsored Industrial Development Project of the Government of India in which the Japanese government is a major investor.

„

Maharashtra plans milk dairy SEZ Maharashtra state dairy development department is thinking of setting up a dairy SEZ at Dapcheri in Thane.

Nitin Raut, Dairy Development Minister said, "The department has a huge plot of 6,000 acres in Dapcheri, about 150 kilometres from Mumbai. The plot also has a dam. We can start an SEZ here and also use the land for making fodder. The units can supply milk to Mumbai and also make milk products like butter cheese, skimmed milk powder for exports and domestic consumption."

The land has been earmarked for shifting of tabela (cowsheds) in Mumbai, but has been shelved due to opposition from the owners.

43 India Post

B

etter days are come back again for the hospitality industry.

The March quarter results of India's largest hotel companies have been a mixed show, analysts believe a strong pick-up in demand and the expected rise in occupancies should improve future numbers.

While the sector was struggling since the second half of 200809 due to negative travel advisories and security concerns, there has been a significant increase in foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) since December 2009. Given the recent increase in arrivals, FTAs will increase from 5.1 million in calendar year 2009 (CY09) to about 5.8 million and 6.6 million in CY11 and CY12 respectively.

June 11, 2010

S

pecial economic zones (SEZ) are again finding place in strategy plans of corporate conglomerates. Six new proposals for setting up SEZs would be coming up in the meeting of the Board of Approval (BoA) on June 8.

As many as 12 SEZ projects were surrendered between December 2008 and March 2009. But, no SEZ was surrendered since then.

Companies are gradually realizing the potential of investing in such long-term projects. Besides, SEZ will be the only scheme to offer tax rebates to exporters beyond March 31, 2011.

Regulator needed to curb wrong practices in real estate MUMBAI: An interactive discussion on Real Estate titled 'Real Estate: Trends, Issues & Consequences' was organized here by Money life Foundation. The session was jointly conducted by industry experts like Pranay Vakil, Chairman of Knight Frank (India) Pvt Ltd and Pankaj Kapoor, MD, Liases Foras.

Mr. Pranay Vakil said on the occasion, "One of the major reasons why the prices are high today is infrastructure. Nobody wants to travel long distances for work. Title insurance is another major issue in this industry."

He added on being quizzed about the short recession, "Liquidity is vital. Developers realized this when sales volumes declined drastically due to the liquidity crunch.

The slowdown gave customers ample choice as affordable housing came into the industry in a big way. Investors are 'fair-weather friends', Sell 'ready' products during a slowdown; contracts can be broken; healthy growth can be sustained by a gradual increase in prices; high-value transactions hyped by the media are not the 'real' market and the need is to in-

novate sales strategy."

Mr. Kapoor said, "Are we heading towards another asset bubble?

Are the prices affordable? What is wrong with the valuation and where is affordable housing? The government is responsible for hiking prices.

R

ome has announced a master plan to transform the city into a green, low-carbon, post-petroleum capital in an attempt to bolster Rome's 2020 Olympic bid.

The City Mayor Gianni Alemanno presented the proposal alongside U.S. economist Jeremy Rifkin, who has been advising the EU on a long-term economic sustainability plan to address the global economic crisis, energy security and climate change.

Rome will invest around euro500-million ($615-million) over the next 20 years in new industries and businesses, creating what city officials claim will result in thousands of new jobs and making the capital independent energetically.

It envisages three main areas of transformation: turning the congested historic center into a

ker who does not know anything.

Secondly, infrastructure- the government cannot be a provider, it can be a facilitator. Thirdly, all these need funds, so get foreign parties excited about India."

Mr. Kapoor said, "We need to

On which Mr. Vakil said "Three most important things we need in real-estate as a priority are-rental housing. Secondly, infrastructure- the government cannot be a provid er, it can be a facilitator We need a regulator for this industry to grow and curb wrong practices."

The workshop witnessed enthusiastic participation from several investors, research analysts and industry experts in form of healthy exchange of ideas between them.

Ms Kavita Hurry, CEO, ING Vysya Mutual Fund asked the speakers to highlight three major issues in the sector.

On which Mr. Vakil said "Three most important things we need in real-estate as a priority are-rental housing, all over the world there is organized rental housing. Here you are left at the mercy of the bro-

Rome to become green capital

„ Sun shining again on hotel industry

www.indiapost.com

SEZs regain their lost glamour

greener, pedestrian friendly space; developing the commercial/industrial "ring" around the capital; and improving the agricultural areas outside the city to reduce its carbon imprint.

Rome will invest around euro500million ($615-million) over the next 20 years in new industries and businesses Rome is one of several Italian cities that have expressed an interest in bidding for the 2020 Summer Olympics, including Venice, Palermo and Bari.

The International Olympic Committee will select the host in 2013.

address the congestion issue in the island city. If we move five buildings from the island city to Bandra, there will be a whole shift in the crowd. If we can shift

Mantralaya, BSE or the IncomeTax office, there will be a difference. There are three-four magnets which draw the crowd there. Everyone knows about it but there is no intension to do that because they are sitting in luxurious places.

We need to add more connectivity. We need a complete master plan for Mumbai to reduce the congestion. We need a regulator, and urban planning."

Other industry experts also voiced their opinion.

The audience reached to a consensus which was that there is an immediate need for a citizen action forum to make higher authorities listen. -PTI

Ambani brothers settle real estate disputes

T

he Ambani brothers have completed their family real estate settlement, according to CNBC-TV18. This comes close to the heels of their May 23 announcement where they said that they were patching up their differences, ending a non-compete agreement, and moving towards reconciliation. Mukesh and Anil Ambani were not on speaking terms after the Reliance business empire, which they inherited from their father Dhirubhai Ambani, was slip in 2005.

CNBC-TV18 learns that both brothers have sorted out their family real estate assets. The settlement of realty assets was part of

the 2005 family memorandum of understanding.

The 2005 family real estate pact was not fully implemented as each side was to vacate or transfer certain properties.

The undivided family holds significant realty properties, which are spread across the country. The properties include apartments in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, and offices in Bandra, Kurla and New Delhi.

The north India headquarters of the Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group (ADAG) is likely to move to Delhi's Hotel Ranjit by AugustSeptember, sources said. Hotel Ranjit was sold by ITDC to a private consortium in 2002.

Tech News Congress approves sale of C17 to India WASHINGTON/NEW DELHI: The US Congress has cleared the sale of C-17 Globemaster III strategic aircraft for India, ahead of the crucial Cabinet-level Strategic Dialogue between the two countries.

The Obama Administration had in April notified the US Congress of the potential sale of 10 C-17 aircraft to India and sought approval in this regard.

"We are pleased that India's intent to buy 10 C-17 Globemaster III has received U.S. congressional approval," Dr Vivek Lall, Vice President and Country Head, Boeing Defense, Space and Security, India, told PTI in New Delhi.

With this, the Indian government is one step closer to acquiring the C-17 which we believe is ideally suited to meet India's airlift needs for military and humanitarian purposes, he said. -PTI

India's exports rose by over 36 per cent in April NEW DELHI: India's exports increased by 36.2 per cent to USD 16.88 billion in April, the sixth consecutive month of growth.

Last April, exports had shrunk nearly 30 per cent to USD 12.4 billion under the impact of the worst recession in 60 years that driedup demand in key markets such as the US. However, going forward the European debt crisis may weigh on outbound shipments, even though India's trade exposure to Greece is limited, rating agency Crisil Principal Economist D K Joshi said. -PTI

Zee launches health channel in US

Z

ee network has expanded the ambit of its umbrella to American media space by launching Veria TV channel in US. The channel will serve the health and fitness related entertainment requirement of people in the region. Veria TV, a 24X7 channel has been launched by Group Chairman Subhash Chandra.

With this launch, Essel Group which already owns media titles among all channels of Zee Network, Daily News has added another media entity to its stable.

The channel will air programs based on well being, health and fitness in high definition format.

Veria will work on the concept of wellness rather than illness.

TechBiz 44

India Post

www.indiapost.com

June 11, 2010

Indian economy upbeat, grows by 7.4 pc in 2009-10 NEW DELHI: India's economy grew by a better than estimated 7.4 per cent in 2009-10 on the back of double digit expansion in manufacturing sector and not so dismal showing by farm sector.

In fact, the economy grew by a robust 8.6 per cent in the fourth quarter, fuelled by 16.3 per cent expansion in manufacturing sector.

China, the only large country with higher growth rate than India, witnessed 11.9 per cent growth in the same quarter, while the fragile recovery in most countries, particularly Europe, is under threat from a sovereign debt crisis. -PTI

Nano grabs global attention on launch of Sanand plant SANAND (GUJARAT): The roll out of "people's car" Nano from the Sanand plant today attracted global attention, with delegates from Italy and the US travelling to the country to assess the future of this small car.

Nano, the world's cheapest car, has attracted the attention of Cornell University in the US, which plans to hold an exhibition of this small car project in the US. "We are here to look at what shall be the future of this car. And maybe sometime later, we can organise an exhibition of this car project in the US," visiting Assistant Professor Aleksandr Mergold of Cornell University told PTI. "We came here with our team to find out what's going on here," Mergold said.

Mergold, along with his team members, interacted with officials of Tata Motors at the assembly line of the plant and jotted down details of the car manufacturing process and clicked photographs of the unit.

Tata Group chairman Ratan Tata and Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi pose besides a Nano car during a rollout ceremony at the new Nano plant at Sanand, on June 2

‘Nano's European version has been launched and work for its production is likely to commence next year, I don't know when,’ he said Among the special invitees at the inauguration ceremony, Mergold was here with a team of four people from the university to assess the future of this car.

Taking the Nano a step forward from being a people's car in India,

Tata Motors had unveiled the European version of the car in Geneva in March, 2009. .

Another special invitee from Italy, Trilix Design Director Justyn Norek said "I am here as part of my association with Tata Motors."

"We are cooperating with Tata Motors regarding engineering of the car, we are closely linked with the styling of this Indian car," Norek told PTI. Norex has formed a design and engineering solution providing company in Italy, which is working in close coordination with Tata Motors for its Nano car project.

"We have had a long association with Tata and therefore, we are here to see how it's being manufactured," Norek said.

"Nano's European version has been launched and work for its production is likely to commence next year, I don't know when," he said.

Spread over an area of about 1,100 acres, the new facility at Sanand has been created at a cost of approximately Rs 2,000 crore.

Till now, production of the Nano -- touted as the world's cheapest car with a factory gate price of Rs 1,00,000 (a little over USD 2,000) -- has been limited at Tata Motors' Pantnagar plant in Himachal Pradesh. -PTI

'I just spent Re one to bring Nano to Gujarat': Modi SANAND, Gujarat: Re one is all that Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi invested and in return he earned a mind-boggling Rs 2,000 crore investment for his state, a political coup against the Left parties and Tatas' gratitude.

Reciprocating the sentiment, Tata Group supremo Ratan Tata said: "We belong to Gujarat. We had gone out and now we have come back here."

Summing up Nano's journey from West Bengal in the east to Gujarat on the west coast, Modi said: "When Ratan Tata said in a press conference in Kolkata that they are leaving West Bengal, I sent him a short SMS saying welcome to Gujarat.

"And now you can see what a Re one (worth) SMS can do."

However, what remains unsaid at this juncture was a host of concessions, financial incentives, huge piece of land and above all, an insurance against any political resistance. No wonder, the state

India from Iran and found refuge in what is modern Gujarat.

The new plant was inaugurated

by Modi and Tata. The event was wound up mid-way due to a strong dust storm.

"We decided that we would locate it in a part of the country, which

Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi

of the art production facility was erected from scratch in less than two years, against months long agony Tatas faced in Singur, West Bengal, ruled by Left parties.

Tata Motors was forced to quit Singur where it planned to set up the mother plant for its people's car Nano, following fierce opposition to land acquisition from locals led by Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee.

Tata said his ancestors came to

The Sanand facility, built at a cost of Rs 2,000 crore, has a manufacturing capacity of 2.5 lakh units annually, scalable up to five lakh units per annum we felt could benefit from this (Nano project). Unfortunately that was not to happen and we had to move the plant under duress," Tata said referring to its unceremonious exit from West Bengal in October 2008.

"We searched for another home for Nano and we wanted to be sure that we could move in peace and harmony, and be able to establish new home for the plant... Modi stood out among all the others in guaranteeing us whatever we needed. It was not just our project, we felt that it was of Gujarat government and Tatas'... We owe you a debt of gratitude." he added.

The Sanand facility, built at a cost of Rs 2,000 crore, has a manufacturing capacity of 2.5 lakh units annually, scalable up to five lakh units per annum. Pilot commercial production of Nano at Sanand has already begun.

"When I came here first on an industry visit, invited by Gujarat Chief Minister, I was told that if it (the Nano plant) is not in Gujarat, I will be a stupid.

"I am no longer stupid after investing on the plant in Gujarat," Tata said, inaugurating the plant. -PTI

June 11, 2010

TechBiz Post

India Post

45

www.indiapost.com

Mittal commends Indian economy BANGALORE: Steel giant ArcelorMittal's chairman and CEO Lakshmi N Mittal has commended the Indian economy for achieving 7.4 per cent growth rate in 2009-10 fiscal amid the global economic slowdown.

Speaking at the Global Investors' Meet, organized by the Karnataka government, he said as he travels around the world, visiting the company's operations in about 60 countries, he is seeing signs of improvement everywhere.

"However, it is clear that economic recovery is not happening at the universal pace," Mittal said. "Two distinct trends are emerging. That of developed countries, which are traveling in the slow lane, while the developing countries are on the speedy lane. This for me is the most interesting economic trend to be reinforced by the crisis."

The rise of BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, China) countries, rapidly industrializing countries and other developing economies are reshaping the global economy. "The high growth rate in these economies has

been one of the most transformational change in the past two years."

He said strong domestic demand has proved to be far more reliable input for growth in developing economies and "we have countries which have successfully maintained growth rate.

India is a great example of this".

India's economy grew by a better than estimated 7.4 per cent in 2009-10 on the back of double digit expansion in manufacturing sector and not so dismal showing by farm sector.

In fact, the economy grew by a robust 8.6 per cent in the fourth quarter, fuelled by 16.3 per cent expansion in manufacturing sector.

China, the only large country with higher growth rate than India, witnessed 11.9 per cent growth in the same quarter, while the fragile recovery in most countries, particularly Europe, is under threat from a sovereign debt crisis.

Mittal said he sees tremendous potential of developing economies that include India.

Govt. treasure flooded with 3G revenue; telcos make full payment

I

indiapost.com

ncluding BSNL and MTNL of public sec tor, total 9 telecom companies have made full payment for their recently won 3G spectrum licenses to the government. The total amount submitted to the treasury of government by these companies is Rs.67719 crores.

Bharti Airtel has paid maximum amount of Rs.12295.46 crores for 13 circles across the country whereas, Vodafone deposited Rs.11617.86 crores. However, MTNL has submitted an amount of Rs.6564 crores.

On the other hand, Public sector telecom company BSNL has paid Rs.10186.56 crores to the government. Reliance Communications, the telecom entity of Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group (ADAG) has paid Rs.8585.04 crores. RCOM has been allotted license to regulate 3G services in 13 circles through-

out the country including of Delhi and Mumbai service areas.

The government had estimated to gather Rs.35000 crores from the auctions of 3G spectrums and Broadband Wireless Access (BWA).

But, due to an overwhelming response from Telcos, the government has managed to earn nearly double of the estimated amount.

With the large revenue, government holds hope of bringing down the fiscal deficit of current financial year from 5.5% to 5%. After the BWA auctions, statistics are expected to improve even more.

According to the schedule, all the winning companies will have acquisitions of 3G spectrum by the month of spectrum.

Defense forces will release the spectrum for telecom companies.

Indian bureaucracy most inefficient in Asia: Survey SINGAPORE: India has the most inefficient bureaucracy in Asia and red-tape is much worse than in China, says a survey.

In the ranking of 12 countries, India has been named as having the most inefficient bureaucracy followed by Indonesia and the Philippines, according to the survey of expatriate business executives conducted by the Hong Kong-based Political and Economic Risk Consultancy (PERC).

Quoting the consultancy, news agency AFP has reported that bureaucratic red-tape is a serious problem in India and China but "the differences in the political systems of these two countries have made inertia much worse in India than in China".

The ranking is based on a scale from one to 10 and a score of 10 indicates the worst possible scenario.

India scored 9.41, followed by Indonesia (8.59), the Philippines (8.37), Vietnam (8.13) and China (7.93).

As per the survey, Singapore and Hong Kong with scores of 2.53 and 3.49, respectively, have the most efficient bureaucracies.

Other countries ranked are Malaysia (6.97), Taiwan (6.6), Japan (6.57), South Korea (6.13) and Thailand (5.53).

As many as 1,373 middle and senior ex-

patriate executives participated in the survey conducted earlier this year.

Writing about India, PERC said, "politicians frequently promise to reform and revitalize the Indian bureaucracy, but they have been ineffective in doing so--mainly because the civil service is a power centre in its own right".

The ranking is based on a scale from one to 10 and a score of 10 indicates the worst possible scenario. India scored 9.41, followed by Indonesia (8.59), the Philippines (8.37), Vietnam (8.13) and China (7.93) The consultancy noted that dealing with India's bureaucracy "can be one of the most frustrating experiences for any Indian, let alone a foreign investor".

PERC noted that bureaucracies in some Asian countries have become power centers in their own right, allowing them to effectively resist efforts toward reforms by politicians and appointed officials. -PTI

46

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Philosophy

June 11, 2010

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Page Sponsored by Sahanis VIMALA THAKAR

A

lot of people are interested in spirituality and yet in very few are there a radical transformation of their consciousness and of their life.

Vimala Thakar: My dear friend, they do not dedicate their lives to the truth they understand.

They have desire for worldly pleasure, worldly recognition. Spirituality is one of the desires. It is not the supreme priority. Immediately start living the truth you understand! Intellectually people may aspire for emancipation or enlightenment but emotionally they love small bondages around them.

They want to belong somewhere emotionally to the family, to their religion. In the name of security they create these emotional loyalties and a sense of exclusive belonging, while intellectually they aspire for absolute freedom, enlightenment. How can the two go together?

They are incompatible, and yet human beings who become sadhakas, inquirers, live a double life.

They are not dishonest. I'm talking about an inner division. They feel satisfied by knowing about liberation, reading about it, imagining it.

The word 'liberation' has its own intoxication. And they live by that intoxication. But there is no factual content. So this inner division causes the pathetic phenomenon that in the evening of their SWAMI CHIDANANDA

T

here are a few things which, as a Hindu, I wish to tell you. Where elders are respectfully honoured, there prosperity prevails; and where elders - father and mother, grandfather and grandmother, uncles and aunts - are treated with contempt, with harshness, with scant respect, there is no prosperity.

These things are not known. So when people are miserable, when people are unhappy, when people lack prosperity, it is not known why it comes about that way. It is brought about by oneself by a total breaking of these laws.

And then you try find out the consequences of the bad situation by looking at the diary, or statistics, or expenditure and income account. Perhaps you blame economic conditions. But, no you create your bad conditions by breaking the spiritual laws.

Where elders are treated with respect and honor, are treated with reverence, there, in that family, in that house, prosperity will abide. In the life of that person who honors his elders, prosperity will always rest.

Secondly, where the women of the house are treated with rev-

lives, their hands are empty. They only have the shells of words with them, not the inner substance of liberation.

What can a person do if they recognize this divided condition in themselves?

VT: One has to educate oneself.

First one discovers the division inside. Then, to eliminate the division,

dissolved by the understanding of truth, that understanding is only verbal. If you have had that, how can there be attachment? Even after having understood the truth some people may cling to untruth for the sake of pleasure or security.

People are afraid of living, they are afraid of dying. The intellectual aspiration for truth is there, but this

on the earnestness.

Various spiritual teachings seem to view the final goal of spiritual life as abiding in the Absolute and are then not at all concerned with the world of time and space, with relating to people.

VT: Even after the discovery you are still there in your body, aren't you? You have to feed it, you have

A dance between manifest and the unmanifest

Vimala Thakar

People are afraid of living, they are afraid of dying. The intellectual aspiration for truth is there, but this fear of life and death is also there

purification through education has to take place, because impurity is the only imbalance.

Educate and sensitize and refine and purify the biological and the psychological aspects of our being then I think the inner division disappears. Seekers should devote a minimum of three, and preferably four, hours each day to their spiritual practice.

Often people can have an understanding of the truth and still remain strongly attached to certain things.

VT: If attachment cannot be

fear of life and death is also there.

That's why the dropping of the attachments does not result.

If that is the case then at least such a person should be conscious that there is a duality in him, that understanding of truth is there on one level and that attachment is also there.

If there is a genuine desire that the attachment should be dissolved, it will work as a prick. It will keep him awake. Attachment will be there, he will act out of attachment, and then he will feel sorry for it. For some time this goes on. It will be gradual. It depends

to clothe it, and you have to live in the world. So after the discovery, the understanding, then there is the awareness. With that awareness you behave in the limited world.

Some people talk about escaping from it, withdrawing, but even after withdrawal you need a place to live. After the discovery of the truth with that inner perfume of the constant awareness that life is a dance between the manifest and the unmanifest, the limited and the limitless, that which is measurable and that which is immeasurable, then you relate to both.

erence, where they are put upon the pedestal which they deserve, there is prosperity. Where are we all, where is humanity if it is not for the women?

It is the Supreme Mother who is the very source of the whole universe, and where the mothers, the women, are treated with reverence that is due to them, in that house, there is prosperity. And where women are treated with dis-

modesty is the highest ornament.

The ornament of a woman, the beauty of a lady, is not in the jewellery she wears or in the type of material or the dress she wears - no, that is not beauty. After all, what is the beauty of the body?

The moment you take leave of the body, it is just a useless thing here. So the true beauty and grace of a woman is modesty. If a woman is modest, if she is chaste, she be-

worshipped regularly.

Say thanks when you get up in the morning, for your health, for your body, for a clean mind, for energy in the body to live a life of usefulness to yourself and to all, and in the evening thank God again for the bounty of a good day, for clear weather, fresh air, good health and energy, opportunity to serve and be useful to yourself and to others.

Some valuable clues to prosperity in house

Swami Chidananda

respect, unkindness, harshness, prosperity cannot come.

Prosperity does not abide in that house where the wife and the mother are made to weep, where tears of women fall. Prosperity takes wings and flies away from that house where woman weeps.

Thirdly, for the womenfolk themselves, modesty is the magnet of prosperity. For a woman,

Where elders are treated with respect and honor, are treated with reverence, there, in that family, in that house, prosperity will abide. In the life of that person who honors his elders, prosperity will always rest comes worshipful; and prosperity becomes the servant, the handmaid of that family where women are adorned by the ornaments of chastity, modesty and gracefulness.

And, last but not the least, where God is worshipped every day, there the whole house becomes blessed with the highest prosperity. All joy, all blessedness, all prosperity comes to that house where God is

If every day there is thanksgiving and you always worship God in your home, there is bound to be prosperity. Where there is worship, in that place, there is the tangible presence of God, and where there is this tangible presence of the Deity, what to say of prosperity?

Everything that is good, everything that is blessed, will pervade that house, will fill that house.

Can I see another's woe, and not be in sorrow too? Can I see another's grief, and not seek for kind relief?

-William Blake A mind at peace, a mind centered and not focused on harming others, is stronger than any physical force in the universe.

-Wayne Dyer In modern business it is not the crook who is to be feared most, it is the honest man who doesn't know what he is doing.

-William Wordsworth We look before and after, And pine for what is not; Our sincerest laughter With some pain is fraught; Our sweetest songs are those that tell of saddest thought.

-Percy Bysshe Shelley Ah, but a man's reach should exceed his grasp.

Or what's a heaven for?

-Robert Browning All sins tend to be addictive, and the terminal point of addiction is damnation.

-W. H. Auden He who reigns within himself and rules passions, desires, and fears is more than a king.

-John Milton

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June 11, 2010

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NEW YORK

ILLINOIS

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WASHINGTON DC

Upcoming

Upcoming

Upcoming

Upcoming Sat June 12

Fri June 11

Every Sunday

• A R Rahman's Jai Ho 2010 - The Journey Home World Tour

• Divya Jyoti Jagrati Sansthan host Satsang, Bhajan & Meditation Program

Venue: Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, 1255 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale, New York Time: 8:30pm Contact: 703-595-4500

Jun 13 2010

Venue: Woodbridge township ambulance and Rescue squad, 77 Queen Road, 3rd Floor, Iselin, NJ 08830 Time: 10:30am to 1pm Contact: (732) 485-0647 Highlights: Lecture by close disciple of Shree Ashutosh Ji Maharaj, Bhajans, free meditation and Mahaprasad.

• 1-Day Nightclub Salsa Beginner Workshop

Sun Jun 13 • SUR - Sringaar

Venue: Roy Arias Dance Studios & Theaters, 300 West 43rd Street, Between 8th & 9th Avenue, 5th Floor, New York, 10036 Time: 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM Contact: Cindy Osorio, Phone: 646-938-8092

Sun Jun 20 • Beauty Pageants - Mommy & Me, Teen Star, Pre-Teen Diva, Little Miss Diva Venue: Holiday Inn, 3050 Woodbridge Ave, Edison, New Jersey, 08837 Time: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM Contact: Jayesh Mehta, Phone: 732 763 0118

Venue: Bridgewater temple auditorium, 780 Old Farm Road Bridgewater, Bridgewater, New Jersey, 08807 Time: 4:00pm Contact: 862-222-0105 Hosted: TAALSADHANA

Fri June 18 • A R Rahman Jai Ho The Journey Home World Tour 2010 Venue: Sears Centre, 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates, Illinois Time: 9pm Contact: 847-770-1088

Fri Jun 18 Bollywood Dance Party

• Good Vibes Peace Festival Venue: Meditation Museum, 8236 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring, District of Columbia Time: 10am to 3pm Contact: (301) 588-0144

Sun June 13 • A. R. Rahman's Jai Ho 2010 - The Journey Home World Tour - VA Venue: Patriot Center, 4500 Patriot Circle, Fairfax, WDCn Time: 7:30pm Contact: 703-595-4500

Sun July 4 • DC Rathyatra & Festival of India Venue: National Mall, 4th Street & Madison Ave, Washington, DC Time: 10am to 9pm Contact: 301-299-2100

Venue: Holiday Inn, 3050 Woodbridge Ave, Edison, New Jersey, 08837 Time: 9:00pm Contact: Musik Waves, Phone: 732-277-6687

Sat July 10 • Dealmaas 2010 USTAD AMJAD ALI KHAN Venue: North Shore Center For Performing Art, Skokie, Illinois Time: 7:30pm to 9pm Contact: 414-336-5982

Sat Jul 3 • Ghulam Ali Live in Concert - New York Venue: Hindu Auditorium, 143-09 Holly Ave, Flushing, New York, 11355 Time: 8:00pm Contact: Balwinder Bajwa, Phone: 516-852-2222

Fri July 23 • Single Gujarati Find your Perfect Match at Matri 2010 Venue: Ramada Inn, 999 Rt. I S, North Brunswick Time: 8pm Contact: 2010@matri.org

Fri Jul 9 Sun Jun 20 • Aavishkar Dance Competition - 2010 Venue: Ukranian Cultural Center Hall, Somerset, New Jersey, 08873 Time: 4:00pm to 8:00pm Contact: Lia Mukherjee, Phone: 7323065755

• Amma's North American Tour Summer 2010 - Washington DC Venue: Hilton Alexandria Mark Center, 5000 Seminary Road, Alexandria, Virginia, 22311 Time: 10am to Jul 11 7:30pm Contact: 240-696-1927

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Upcoming

Upcoming

Fri June 11

Every Sat (start from Sat Aug 8)

• Mount Madonna School's 32nd annual Ramayana

• Gurukul Classes for Children Venue: Sindhu Center, South California Time: 2pm to 4pm Contact: 818-541-1754 & 909-576-1114 Highlights: Children between the ages of 5 and 18. Children will be taught the Fundamentals of Hinduism, Prayers, Shlokas, Bhajans and Values of our culture.

Sun June 20 • Pan-IIT, SoCal Chapter Annual Picnic

Venue: Mexican Heritage Theater, 1700 Alum Rock Ave, San Jose, California Time: 7:30pm Contact: 408-847-2717

Venue: Cerritos Park East Shelter 1, 13234 166th St Cerritos, California Time: 12 noon to 5pm (12:00 noon to 12:45 pm: Registration and network, network, network, network, 12:45 pm to 1:30 pm: Games/Entertainment for all + snacks + Network, 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm: Catered lunch : General music and hungama + Network, 2:30 pm to 3:45 pm: More Games/Inter IIT Antakshari + Raffles, 3:45 pm to 4:30 pm: Chai / Soap Box / Game Prizes, 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm: Wrap-up, Clean-up and promises to meet soon) Contact: 818-209-0172

Sat June 12

Sat Jun 26

• Bombay Jayashri - Vocal Venue: India Community Center, 525 Los Coches St, Milpitas, California Time: 3:30pm

• Singh Entertainment Presents Jai Ho - AR Rahman The Journey World Tour 2010

Fri Jun 18 • Amjad Sabri Live & Direct In Sacramento

Venue: Burbank High School, 3500 Florin Rd, Sacramento, California, 95823 Time: 7:00pm Contact: 916-613-0732

Sun Jun 26

Venue: Oracle Arena, 7000 Colisium Way, Oakland, California Time: 7:30pm Contact: Paul Singh, Phone: 209-604-2543

Sun Jul 31

• Arangetram by Neha Shekhar

• Arangetram by Sneha Jayaprakash

Venue: Mexican Heritage Plaza, 1700 Alum Rock Ave, San José, California, 95116 Time: 6:00pm Contact: sugandaiyer@comcast.net

Venue: Cubberley Theater, 4000 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto, California Time: 4:00pm to 6:00pm Hosted By: Jayendra Kalakendra

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Maoist killings dent their moral & social support DEVYANI SRIVASTAVA

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he recent spate of Maoist Maoist strategy of protracted attacks - the killing of 76 se- people's war needs to be highlighted. curity personnel (6 April) Traditionally, 'annihilation of class and over 35 civilians including enemies' has been the dominant tacSpecial Police Officers (SPO) (17 tic of the Maoist armed struggle.

May) in Dantewada district, Earlier, these included landChhattisgarh - has considerably lords and corrupt government intensified the specter of Maoist functionaries who were specifiviolence in India. The latest cally targeted; today, however, the Gyaneshwari train tragedy on 28 enemy is no longer individuals but May in Maoist-affected West an entire force constituted largely Midnapore district of West Ben- of the very tribals and villagers gal is yet to be investigated. that are also the largest support The meticulous planning and brutality of the killings, seen as a sign of the success of Maoists, sparked debates over use of air power/force and further intensification of security operations being conducted by the state.

At the same time, these killings also considerably dent the moral support amassed by the Maoists among the civil Maoists blew this passenger bus to pieces society at large, questioning the inexcusable killing of base of the Maoists. local villagers and tribals.

To this extent, therefore, the How does one understand this above suggests that the spate of violence against civilians in con- violence unleashed in parts of centext of the broader goals of the tral India is as much due to the Maoists as also its impact on the very objective and strategy of the course of the people's war - do revolution rather than simply a rethese reflect intensification or weakening of the people's war beA heightened sense of ing waged by the Maoists?

To begin with, the above at- helplessness is paltacks need to be understood as a pable among the result of the 'militarized' climate masses as they are now prevailing in the south of Chhattisgarh since the launch of increasingly getting state-backed Salwa Judum in June caught in the crossfire 2005 where violence and counter- between the Maoists violence is the order of the day, and must not acquire a quality of and the government 'coming out of nowhere'. without any improveThe Maoists and their sympa- ment in their living thizers claim that such attacks are an "unfortunate fall out of the conditions government's willful policy of pursuing Salwa Judum first and then sponse to Operation Green Hunt.

Operation Green Hunt." Such Had the operations not been claims contain a degree of truth, launched, the Maoist violence for, the above mentioned attacks would have been directed at anwere, in fact, carried out on forces other 'enemy' class; the operations returning from area-domination or in fact, might have served the cause combing exercises. of the revolution by providing the Moreover, it is also true that the Maoists an 'enemy' class against violence in south of Chhattisgarh whom the masses can be mobilized. spiraled only after Salwa Judum Given the centrality of such atcampaign, whereas prior to that, tacks in the Maoist strategy, how the Maoists were basically en- has it impacted the cause and gaged in mobilizing the tribals of course of the revolution? To begin the undivided Bastar region to with, the fact that the enemy confight for their rights. glomerate today also constitutes Having said this, however, the the very tribals that the Maoists centrality of armed struggle in the claim to be representing has put

the Maoists in a situation where an intensification of their armed struggle against the 'enemy' also inadvertently mars the movement's moral and social support.

For instance, a common principle of the strategy of protracted people's war is 'decimation of dissenting voices and attempts of implementing alternate participatory politics' other than that advocated by the Maoists.

This is evident through several fact-finding reports from Lalgarh, Dantewada and killing of 'police informers' elsewhere. Such tactics, however, have created a rift among the masses against the violence of the Maoists as is reminiscent by the anti-Maoist rally carried out in the wake of the 17 May killings.

A heightened sense of helplessness is palpable among the masses as they are increasingly getting caught in the crossfire between the Maoists and the government without any improvement in their living conditions. Although this sense of helplessness does not benefit the state, it also proves to harm the Maoists, especially, as analysts have argued, the people cannot be expected to put up with their abysmal condition for too long.

Above all, the most harmful impact of such brutalities is on the image of the Maoists as benefactors of tribal welfare. Several tribal organizations leading struggles against the state have openly rebutted their conflation as front organizations of the Maoists.

The Chasi Mulia Adivasi Sangh (CMAS) working in Koraput district in Orissa on illegal grabbing of Adivasi land, for instance, held a protest in Bhubaneshwar against the conspiracy of the government to falsely brand them as Maoists.

Ultimately, the Maoist politics of violence together with their inability to deliver on social services generates little hope that a state under the Maoist will be any different from the inefficient democratic state they are fighting against. The movement, therefore, is fraught with several ideological and moral dilemmas that today seem to be harming the path of revolution instead of advancing it.

The writer is Research Officer, IPCS

India Post CM-in waiting

T

he image of Mamata Banerjee in New Delhi is that of an irresponsible Railway Minister who doesn't even care to visit the spots where the frequent railway accidents have been taking place and remains ensconced in Kolkata playing her erratic brand of politics with the sole aim of becoming chief minister of West Bengal.

After her resounding victory trouncing the mighty Left Front in municipal elections a quick rethink is on. By this time next year she could very well be ruling West Bengal. And questions are being asked what kind of chief minister will she make?

After 33 years people of West Bengal are really tired of the Left rule. The Trinamool victory is partly because of this negative vote.

But it is not readily accepted that Mamata Banerjee has a great chemistry with the people of West Bengal and it was this plus factor which combined with the negative to give her the push.

People are not thinking how she will fare at the helm. They want the Left booted out first and that would be a big relief. The question of how Mamata will function will come only later. At least they want to give her a chance.

Experts on West Bengal believe Mamata has evolved as a politician. She has matured. She is in the mold of rustic leaders like Lalu Prasad Yadav who are not appreciated in cities. She would bring in lot many changes. She might take a few populist decisions, play to the gallery but like Chandrababu Naidu, she'll extract a lot of finance from Sonia and Manmohan Singh.

An expert on CNN-IBN had this to say about her: "The city snobs cannot always understand the Mamata phenomenon.

Mamata is a people's leader who has never studied in an English medium school. And just because her accent is funny we don't believe her. We forget that it takes courage for a woman to decide at a very early age that she wouldn't be lured by cosmetics, jewelry and clothes. She has fought for such a long time to become almost a Pied Piper in Bengal. We must learn to respect the Lalus and Mamatas. They are rustic but great, great leaders."

The Congress has fared even worse than last time in West Bengal. Their experiment of going it alone has backfired in the civic elections. There is no doubt that they will now go in for an alliance with Trinamool for the Assembly elections next year. But Mamata should understand that she also needs the Congress.

The combined strength of the two parties will be an invincible force. It is obvious from the way the CPM is already trying to send feelers to the Congress to drive a wedge between the two.

That there are differences between the Trinamool and the Congress was obvious from the Prime Minister's reply during a recent press conference. Asked if he missed the "structured support" that he enjoyed from the Left in UPA-I, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said that progressive parties should be together.

The unhappy experience of coalitions in Delhi with the types of Jayalalitha and Mayawati whose support could never be taken for granted, would scare the Congress about depending upon Mamata Banerjee. But there is a great possibility of the anti-industry culture changing under Banerjee and New Delhi would be happy to support her in development measures which accord with New Delhi's plans.

The tantrum throwing Mamata is past and West Bengal can hope for better days with a new leader. New approaches are needed to handle education, infrastructure, industrial growth and employment opportunity.

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