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STOCKS • FINANCE • SOUTH ASIAN MARKETS • TECHNOLOGY

Deccan, Taj and Business Jets Join Hands to Launch Powerfly MUMBAI (IE & SIFY): Air charter service providers Deccan Charters, Taj Air - the executive charter service of Indian Hotels Company (IHCL), and Business Jets India Pvt Ltd (BJETS) today joined hands to launch Powerfly, which will offer services on demand by leveraging the synergies of the three brands.

We believe this collaboration will bring together a new force that will catalyse the sector,” Tata Sons Director and Vice-Chairman of IHCL R K Krishna Kumar said.

With the buoyancy in air passenger traffic and Taj Air

getting into marketing alliance with Deccan and BJETS, the company (Taj Air) expects to return to profitability in the next fiscal, Kumar said.

The BJETS, a luxury air charter provider, is backed

by Singapore’s Briley Group and has a significant stake in IHCL. Powerfly would also leverage the synergies of the three brands and their fleets and includes the marketing, maintenance Charter Jet services are the next level of aviation and operational support advances for the busy corporate individual in India

between the Deccan Charters and BJETS, announced R.K. K r i s h n a K u m a r, director of Tata Sons and vice chairman of Indian Hotels, and Captain G.R. Gopinath, CMD of Deccan Chaters.

Powerfly has started bookings and will commence operations Feb 14, 2011.

Gopinath said that India has witnessed unprecedented in the

commercial aviation sector over the past few years.

While Deccan Charters already has a range of 16 aircrafts, Taj Air and BJETS will add three Hawker 850XPs, Cessna Citation CJ-2, P180 Avanti-II Turbo-props and Falcons 2000LX through Powerfly, the officials said.

While Taj Air pioneered charter aviation in the country in 1993, and currently flies private jets to over 56 countries and 130 domestic destinations (compared to 71 by commercial carriers), Deccan Charters launched operations in 1997.

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INVESTIGATIVE PRODUCER: KTRK - Television, is looking for an INVESTIGATIVE NEWS PRODUCER to expand our award winning team. Ideal candidates must have the ability to research and produce a variety of investigative stories that will be broadcast on a daily and monthly schedule. Candidates must be a self starter and leader but willing to take direction in a team atmosphere. Candidates must be prolific in computer research (CAR proficiency is a big advantage). Knowledge of undercover investigative techniques, news photojournalism and non-linear editing is essential and on-air investigative reporting experience a plus. This is an excellent opportunity to join a first-class station and live in a fun and affordable city.

Candidates must apply on-line at www.disneycareers.com by uploading a resume file. Please Reference Job ID: 275991 on all materials submitted. Interested applicants should include cover letter and references when they apply and send non-Returnable Beta, VHS or DVD of recent work to the attention of Human Resources, KTRK-TV, 3310 Bissonnet; Houston, TX 77005. No phone calls please and no third parties. Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D

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Indo American News • Friday. February 04, 2011

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HIV Positive Patients may get Medical Insurance Soon

By Kounteya Sinha NEW DELHI (TOI): India could soon see a national medical insurance policy for people living

the country “violating the national mandate of providing stigma free care and support services”.

“Right now, there are individual

The third largest number of HIV patients in the world live in India.

Many of them do not know they have it. HIV treatment is not covered by insurance policies so far. Now HIV / AIDS has become a manageable health problem and Union Health Ministry officials have asked that medical insurance policies carry this health coverage to provide cost effective care to such patients

with HIV (PLHIV).

In a meeting with insurance companies and the Insurance Regulatory Development Agency on February 3, the National Aids Control Organization (NACO) will press them to make insurance “inclusive and universal for PLHIV”.

Currently, HIV is excluded from all insurance policies available in

health schemes in some states which cover certain healthcare related costs of PLHIV. Many health insurance policies exclude services to PLHIV and there is need for a package designed specially for such people. We will discuss global best practices to see how a viable insurance policy can be created for them,” joint secretary Aradhana Johri told TOI.

Another ministry official said, “Those living with HIV are living longer and have less morbidity cases, thanks to the increase in antiretroviral therapy (ART) coverage.

With timely initiation of ART, PLHIV may live a normal life up to 20 more years. Companies need to realize that covering HIV patients with a medical policy is no more a loss making proposition.”

India with a HIV prevalence rate of 0.31% is home to the third largest number of people living with HIV/ AIDS in the world -- 23.9 lakh.

Some countries with higher prevalence rates of HIV have already taken measures to mainstream HIV through commercial health insurance cover. These include South Africa (17.8), Namibia (13.1), Uganda (6.5), Guyana (1.2)

and United States (0.6).

K K Abraham, chief of Indian Network of People Living with HIV, said, “Insurance is life saving for us.”

At present, only Star Health and Allied Insurance has an insurance policy for PLHIVs in four states -- Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. More than 7,000 PLHIVs have subscribed to this insurance which provides a health cover of Rs 30,000 ($640) with a yearly premium Rs 1,511 ($32).

NACO says that with about 89% of all HIV/AIDS infections being in the 15-49 age group, it effects in the most productive years. Currently, the financial burden of treatment and care is shared by NACO and PLHIVs. While NACO pays for

ART, PLHIVs face economic burden of travel, nutrition and loss of wages.

Recently, India launched the national health insurance scheme, Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY), for BPL. It is to be rolled out in 366 districts in 29 states. As on December 23, 2010, a total of 22,354,462 smart cards have been issued across 260 districts in 27 states.

NACO says, “HIV has been taken out from the exclusion list making it possible for poor PLHIVs to be covered under health insurance, which can make them entitled to one time hospitalization for nearly 700 in-patient procedures with costs up to Rs 30,000 by paying a minimal registration fee of Rs 30 per annum.”

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Super Successful Sikh is Toronto’s biggest Indian Car Man

By GurumuKh SinGh TORONTO (Ummid): As the global meltdown grounded the auto industry, Toronto’s biggest Indian car man, Nav Bhatia, only thrived.

The multimillionaire Sikh has also been helping change stereotypes about Indians in Canada after being mistaken for a cab driver once.

“We have continued to post better results thanks to our clients,” beams Bhatia who landed here from Delhi in 1984 and is the biggest Indian origin Hyundai car dealer in Canada today.

Flip through any newspaper and you find him featured in full-page auto ads with his trademark right finger pointed up.

He is friends with the who’s who of Canada, including BlackBerry co-CEO Jim Balsillie. “We are very good friends. Jim loves Indian food. He is very simple and cuts his lawn grass himself.”

The 58-year-old Sikh is also the most famous Indian face on the North America NBA circuit with his official anointing as the ‘Super Fan’ of the city-based NBA team called Toronto Raptors for creating a record of watching over 500 games.

“It became the first “I am the Bollywood film to only Super run at six mainstream Fan anointed theatres in the Toronto by the NBA. area. Till then no Each season, I Cineplex would spend $300,000 touch an Indian film, to buy 3,000 but I changed that,” seats out of the says Bhatia who has total 20,000 brought dozens of for games held Indian films here i n To r o n t o since then. and distribute Over the years, he them free to has also staged live Indian kids to shows of the likes of watch these Amitabh Bachchan, games from Aamir Khan, Shah front rows. The Rukh Khan, A.R. images of our Rahman and other kids in turbans Nav Bhatia, the multimillionaire Sikh is out to help Canadians stars at the Air Canada and Indian realize that Indians cannot be stereotyped as just cab drivers dress beamed and gas station owners. 58 year old Bhatia is the most famous Centre in Toronto. into millions Indian face on the NBA Circuit here also in America, having been “ T h r o u g h of homes make anointed as the Super Fan of the city-based NBA team called Bollywood films and white people Toronto Raptors. He is also known as the first Bollywood man live shows, I have aware of our to bring in the first movie “Hum Saath Saath Hain” to Canada in succeeded in telling identity,” he 1999 and done a lot to promote the identity of the Indian well. Canadians that we Indians have a robust says. son with me to the Raptors’ game culture of entrainment “Most NBA and solid identity. My Indian players and referees know me against Lakers here Dec 19.”

The top auto man is also credited identity is very important to me.” personally because of my turban. with bringing Bollywood to Canada, In fact, it was a hurtful remark That’s how I used the NBA to promote awareness about our with the screening the film “Hum in 1998 that forced Bhatia to shell out a fortune to use the NBA and identity. I took Balsillie and his Saath Saath Hain” here in 1999.

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Bollywood to promote his Indian identity among white people.

“I was walking into a Bell cellphone repair centre when a white guy, who was talking on the phone, said loudly: ‘Honey, I have to go now, my cab is here.’ Seeing my turban, this guy thought I am a cab driver. I was so hurt that I decided to do anything - spend any money - to change stereotypes about us,” says Bhatia. He thinks his efforts have paid off.

This super successful man started his Canadian dream with odd jobs.

“Though I held a degree in mechanical engineering from California State University, I couldn’t find a job because of my turban. Finally, a Chinese car dealer gave me a break as a salesman.

Within three months, I sold 127 cars and was promoted as manager,” he narrates.

Impressed with his track record, Hyundai offered him to turn around a troubled dealership. Bhatia not only turned it around within a year but also bought it in 1989.

There was no looking back as Bhatia went on to break one ceiling after another.

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ISLAMABAD (HT): Daring denims and micro miniskirts are not typical on Pakistan catwalks, but at the capital’s first ever fashion week, designers have turned to risque Western styles to lure foreign buyers back.

With the national economy hit by crippling debts and a torrid political scene, fashion industry insiders hope the modern designs can capitalise on the country’s long-standing reputation as a global textile capital.

Islambad’s glitterati, a niche group of fashion-forward entrepreneurs in the largely poor nation, held a fourday design showcase to encourage international business -- scared off by the threat of Taliban bombs -- to return.

“One reason for doing this is to bring the buying power of the world back to Pakistan,” said organiser Tariq Amin, the country’s best known stylist.

“Because of the current situation and the political situation, it’s difficult for them (buyers) to want to come to Lahore and Karachi, so Islamabad... the embassies are here, there’s a lot more security.”

Security was indeed tight at Islam-

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Indo American News • Friday,February 04, 2011

Microminis at Pakistan Fashion Week

abad’s luxury Serena Hotel, as models picked from the streets of Pakistan’s main cities sashayed down the runway, showcasing the country’s talent for colourful ornate and sheer fabrics.

Edgy and bold off-theshoulder cuts hit the runway alongside more familiar long floating dresses, less likely to offend sensibilities in the devout Muslim nation.

Designers hope that by slashing hemlines they can maximise foreign profits.

“You can’t sell shalwar kameez in the West,” said Amin, referring to the plain cotton tunic most commonly worn by men in Pakistan.

Pakistan’s textile and clothing industry brings in 60 percent of the country’s export revenues, according to official data, making it critical to reviving economic fortunes, made worse by devastating floods last year.

While other Pakistani cities such as Karachi are used to holding fashion

shows, Islamabad is new to the scene.

A total of 32 designers put on catwalk

Associate Producer Trainee: KTRK-TV,the ABC/Disney owned station located in Houston,TX is accepting applications for an Associate Producer Trainee.This is one-year training position.The AP Trainee will gain valuable experience in writing, graphic development and other aspects of producing a television newscast.

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This is an excellent opportunity to join a first-class station and live in a fun and affordable city. Candidates must apply on-line at www. disneycareers.com by uploading a resume file. Please Reference Job ID: 277176 on all materials submitted. Send non-Returnable DVD or VHS resume tape to the attention of Human Resources, KTRK-TV, 3310 Bissonnet; Houston, TX 77005 and include the job reference ID. No phone calls please. Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D

shows from Thursday to Sunday.

But the audience was largely Pakistani, with few foreign buyers seen milling around outside the hotel’s large conference hall where new and more established designers staged their shows.

One buyer, Iranian Soheil Mazinani, of fashion house Asmaneh, said the event’s success would be judged by future business, not by its popularity this time around.

Likening the show now to a “baby”, Mazinani said: “I think after one or two years it can grow and you will see a lot of buyers.” But he admitted he would not be making any purchases on this trip, and that the Western styles would be equally out of place on the streets of Iran.

“We are just getting familiar with the different designers and manufacturers,” he said, adding: “Ladies can wear them for celebrations, in parties or private events -- underground.”

Fashion is a key engine for growth for countries such as Pakistan, said Paco De Jaimes, founder of the notfor-profit World Fashion Association, which aims to foster poor nations’ participation in the lucrative fashion

31

business. “(Fashion is) one of the main sectors (in Pakistan) and this helps very much countries to recover their economies,” said De Jaimes. “People don’t realise how fashion industries contribute to the eradication of poverty, to social integration, to empowerment of women,” he said. “Any kind of initiative that can promote that foreign step is always good.”

Zohra Khokhar, a 25-year-old designer who works with her mother for their label Deeba & Zoe, said they came to Pakistan from Scotland six years ago to capitalise on the availability of good materials.

“You can do everything here from start to finish, from the dyeing of the material to the finishing of the beads and everything,” she said.

But breaking into the market is now harder than ever because of global inflation pushing up manufacturing costs, she added. “What people need to understand is that Pakistan’s not as cheap as they think. All over the world prices have gone up... so materials are dearer, labour’s dearer, you can’t expect to get a massive profit out of it.”

Photographer / Editor: KTRK - TV, the ABC/Disney owned station, located in Houston, TX has an immediate opening for a Programming Department Photographer who can do it all. (Shoot, edit, produce) Responsibilities will include working on a variety of innovative station programming projects both long and short form. Qualified candidates must be detail oriented with a creative knack for compelling story telling through sound and pictures. Must have a valid driver’s license and be flexible to working any shift assigned.

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Leopard Poaching Reaches High Levels in India - Rescue Teams Set Up

NEW DELHI (TOI): Wildlife experts want rapid response teams set up in sensitive areas across the country to deal with human-leopard conflicts. After three leopards were killed last week, experts said the environment ministry must frame an action plan to swiftly rescue the big cats when they stray into towns and villages. The killings took place within five days in separate regions. In each case, the cat had strayed into an inhabited areas and could not find a way out.

On the afternoon of January 9, a policeman shot dead a rampaging leopard to stop it from mauling a man who had stepped out of a bar in Maharashtra’s Karad city. Three days later, a male leopard strayed into Kheri Gujran village near the Aravalis in Haryana’s Faridabad district and attacked a woman. An angry mob broke tranquilizer guns brought by rescue teams and beat the animal to death. There was a rerun of the scene a day later on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, Orissa, when villagers killed a leopard.

Big cat specialists say these incidents indicate India’s leopards are coming under increasing stress. “It is high time the Centre formulated guidelines to deal with these situations,” said Qamar Qureshi of Dehradun-based Wildlife Institute of India. “We need trained people to reach stranded leopards before the mob does.”

Qureshi said it is possible to set

up rapid response teams in all problem areas without spending a lot of money. “All you need to do is train three to five local forest officials for the job, have a

commonly occurring humancarnivore conflict in India, it has not got the attention it deserves.

“Sadly, the leopard is not an iconic animal like the tiger. Its num-

ed 3,552 killings since 1994.

Other reports say one leopard is killed every day in the country.

“Poaching and forced translocation of leopards are probably among the main reasons for human-leopard conflicts,” said Vidya Athreya, a wildlife biologist working specif specifically on the problem.

Citing her own research on leopard conflicts in Maharashtra, Athreya said removals through poaching and translocation lead to other leopards occupying the ‘vacated’ territories. “These leopards are new to the area and are more liable to come into contact with human beings or prey on livestock.” Vidya said there was a sharp fall in leopard attacks in Borivili and Jhunnar – Poaching and forced translocation of leopards are probably among the two conflict hotspots main reasons for human-leopard conflicts,” said Vidya Athreya, a wildlife in Maharashtra – since biologist working specifically on the problem. With a rise of poachers hunt- translocation of trapped ing the leopard population, Wildlife rapid response teams have been set up animals to other places in sensitive areas across India to combat the problem was stopped. “Now, the trapped leopards veterinary care unit, a vehicle bers are relatively high and so its are released in the same area and and some basic equipment. This killings do not make big news.” seldom cause trouble,” she said. would save lives and protect the Qureshi has a point. Leopard Shrinking habitats is the most citanimals,” the big cat expert said. poaching has reached alarm- ed cause of conflict. “Leopards are He said despite leopard en- ing levels. The Wildlife Protec- great survivors,” said co-founder of counters being by far the most tion Society of India record- Wildlife SOS Kartick Satyanarayan,

whose team members were almost beaten up trying to rescue the leopard at Kheri Gujran.

“They have traditionally lived at the edge of human habitations.

Now, more and more unused land where leopards usually live unseen by humans is being developed.”

Athreya said the government needs to study all aspects of this complex problem if the majestic feline is to co-exist peacefully with humans – as is still the case in many parts of the country.

A first-of-its-kind satellite tracking project to monitor leopards may help the Indian government formulate a more effective wildlife policy, and prevent conflict between humans and wild animals.

Wildlife biologist Vidya Athreya, lead researcher of Project Waghoba, says her team followed an adult male leopard’s 120-kilometre journey from the hinterlands to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, the green oasis at the heart of India’s commercial capital, Mumbai. The monitoring device was a satellite collar on the leopard that emitted regular signals the researchers used to follow the animal.

Lessons from the leopard’s journey are important, Athreya said, because one of India’s main policies in dealing with the conflict between humans and wildlife is to capture the “problem” animal and relocate it somewhere else.

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Indo American News • Friday, February 04, 2011

Akshay Kumar Becomes Bowler for Patiala House

Patiala House is directed by Nikhil Advani and produced by Bhushan Kumar, Mukesh Talreja, Krishan Kumar, and Akshay Kumar’s wife, Twinkle Khanna. Akshay portrays Parghat Singh Kahlon, a man who runs a corner shop in Southall, London, but dreams of playing cricket.

Akshay talks about his role in Patiala House in an email iterview. Below are soe excerpts of the interview:

How would you describe the plot of the film?

Patiala House is based in Southall London where the Kahlon extended family has lived for four generations. The movie follows my battle to follow my dream of becoming a fast-paced bowler for the England Cricket team, fighting the odds, although the cricket element of the film is incidental, and symbolic of something bigger, representing any dream or ambition one may hold in his or her heart. My character, Gurtej Singh Kahlon, or ‘Gattu’, is the eldest son and runs the family corner store for a living. He is a dutiful son but also adamant about following his dreams.

Do you relate strongly with the character of Parghat Singh Kahlon?

Yes to a very great extent, I do. In a way I can say that Parghat Singh Kahlon or Gattu, as a character is an amalgamation of me as a person and my struggles in life. Some years ago I went through the same situation, when I had a run of films that didn’t do so well. I thought I was finished. But then I did a film called ‘Jaanwar’, which I felt was my second chance in the industry. I did not give up but kept fighting and trying, because I knew this is exactly what I wanted and I was not one to quit without a fight.

Was this role challenging?

I had to engage in a lot of emotional and cultural preparation for this film which in itself has been a challenge. The film offered me the

derstanding.

It’s important to address the situation correctly, explain to parents what you believe in a way that is respectful and doesn’t hurt their sentiments and beliefs. It might not always work in one’s favour but that doesn’t mean that you give up on your dreams. There is always a second chance and you have to grab it at the right time and do your best.

Are you a cricket buff in real life?

opportunity as an artist to explore a persona that was deeply guided by a spectrum of conflicting sentiments and emotions. The unique thing about Gattu’s character is that whilst there is a multitude of conflicting messaging, reasoning and dilemmas internally, his character is outwardly quite stoic and he conceals the emotional turmoil that is going on inside him.

The film’s message is about generation gaps and overcoming the problems within this issue. What are your own thoughts about this matter?

My personal take on this is that family pressures and expectations are something that most youth experience and will have to address at various stages of their lives whether it’s about which career one should pursue, who they should marry, or how they should conduct their life in general. It’s a completely global phenomenon and to be honest not one that will disappear so easily. At each stage of one’s life, norms, values and expectations change which impact relationships. The key to overcoming this issue is mutual respect, empathy and un-

Oh yes! I love both, playing and spectating.

I would play cricket in the bylanes of Delhi where I grew up as a kid. I always looked up to cricket personalities like Vivian Richards, Sunil Gavaskar, Imran Khan and always enjoyed their on-pitch performances. With Patiala House I got to work very closely with cricketing veterans and icons such as Balwinder Singh Sandhu, Keiron Pollard, Andrew Symonds, Shaun Tait, Herschelle Gibbs, Nasser Hussain and David Gower to name a few.

How was the experience working with Anushka Sharma?

Anushka is a very sweet girl and a hugely talented actress. She fits perfectly into her character as Simran, a girl next door aspiring to be a

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Bollywood actress. She has done a superb job in the film and it was such a pleasure working with her – she’s a through and through professional with an immaculate work ethic.

How was it working with Rishi Kapoor for the film?

It was an absolute delight to work with such an icon of the Indian film industry, who is so very humble and a wonderful human being. I have literally grown up watching his films and having the opportunity to work with him again was a total honor. He is such a great actor and inspiration and sharing the same screen space with him once again, as his on-screen son, was sheer joy.

What do you think is the best thing about Patiala House?

As the reference Patiala suggests, the film is extremely big-hearted. There are so many wonderful attributes to this film that I would certainly be doing a severe injustice by mentioning just one quality to this film.

It’s been a labor of love for every person that had the honor and privilege of being involved in this film, in whatever capacity. I have faith that the collective love, hard work, dedication and vision of the entire unit will steal audiences’ hearts and that this film will stay with people for years to come.

Which is your favorite song in the film?

It would have to be ‘Kyun Main Jagu’ which is also referred to as Gattu’s theme tune. The song conveys the very essence of this film.

Listen to the lyrics very carefully, no joke even months after making this film when I play this song in my car I can’t help but get choked up, to be honest I still haven’t understood why this song affects me so much, but it does, and I’m not afraid to admit that, listen for yourselves, see if you feel anything remotely powerful when you take in the words...

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Indo American News • Friday, February 04, 2011

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Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana

(VYASA) Offers Weekend Yoga Classes

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IA News © 2010

CHIEF ENGINEER / VP BROADCAST TECHNOLOGY - KTRK Television, the ABC/Disney O&O in Houston, Texas has a tremendous opportunity for a VP of Broadcast Technology with significant management and leadership experience and a strong working knowledge of television broadcast for our 24/7 facility.

The successful candidate will have to demonstrate ability to manage multiple, changing priorities. The successful candidate will also need to have in depth knowledge that spans information technology, digital video and audio technologies.

RF technologies and file based production workflows. Require experience in TV broadcast engineering management including studio and transmitter facility maintenance, capital project planning and implementation, production and on-air operations, scheduling of technical personnel, preparation of operating budgets, as well as a knowledge of and compliance with all government and industry regulations and standards. Ideally the candidate will be detail oriented and a team player with the ability to support and service other departments including News, Programming and Promotions. A degree in a technical related field or equivalent experience preferred and at least 3 years experience in a primary role in the planning, installation, operation and maintenance of modern studio equipment, transmitter facilities, automation systems, remote control and remote broadcast equipment as well as other equipment typical to a commercial television station. Lucrative Salary, relocation and benefits package for the right candidate.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a first-class station, have a rewarding job and live in a fun and affordable city. Candidates must apply on-line at www.disneycareers.com by uploading a resume file and cover letter. Please Reference Job ID: 279953 on all materials submitted. No Phone calls please.

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Indo American News • Friday, February 04, 2011

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE ARIES Mar 21 - Apr 20: If you haven’t already taken your work seriously, you will now. You will come out of that happygo lucky phase and look to acquiring a steady income. The week will be a good one, especially for those of you in the media. Your venture may come to fruition, but a lot will depend on your communicational skills and how well you build your contacts. Work will take you places, bringing you new contracts and assignments.

TAURUS Apr 21 - May 21: FurFur ther studies, research, or even a professional training to get ahead in your financially goals will interest you greatly.

You will be practical in your approach towards everything, and will realize the power and importance of communication. Your relationship with friends, in-laws, superiors, colleagues and subordinates will, therefore, assume significance.

Keep away from unnecessary arguments; occasional clashes are likely.

GEMINI May 22 - Jun 21: Disoriented and confused for a while, you will now be more composed and in control of yourself. You will be more dedicated towards your work and determined to achieve your goals.

A change in priority will divert your attention to strengthening family and personal ties and spiritual resources.

CANCER Jun 22 - Jul 23: You will be a bit more relaxed this week, and will take out time for recreation and widening your social network. At parties and social gatherings, you will be at your ebullient best and will have a whale of a time. But there will be a paradigm shift in your ambitions.

You will now strive for attaining the comforts and luxuries that make life easier. Spending time with your sweetheart will bring you joy.

LEO July 24 - Aug 23: Power struggle at the workplace and within the family will take focus. Getting

due recognition and appreciation for your efforts will be your priority. Stay away from arguments and feelings of being exploited. You will accept a temporary role that is below your potential. You will have to be mindful of your ego.

This trend is mere a passing phase.

VIRGO Aug 24 - Sep 23: This week you will seek growth and exploration. But they will come at a heavy price, with time being the currency. Money and religion will also attract your interest.

Mergers and collaborations will also take up a lot of your time and there may not be much of it left for your loved ones.

There may be some drastic changes at home or work. You may have to relocate. You will seek changes, novelty and new experiences to quench this new thirst.

LIBRA Sep 24 - Oct 23: For the efforts you put during the past few weeks, you will find genuine love, fun, and happiness.

Respite, relaxation, glamour and exciting events have been prophesied for you this week. And with your burdens all gone, you will enjoy every day thoroughly. This will also reflect in the way you interact with people, especially your family members. Life will no longer seem mean, and you will be motivated to work harder towards achieving your goals.

SCORPIO Oct 24 - Nov 22: Reaching out to people and engaging them in meaningful conversations will be an urge almost irresistible. By doing so, you will be unknowingly developing lasting and meaningful relations. Bonding and spending quality time with close friends will seem more important than the partying of the past few weeks.

New places and people may lead to opportunities you were looking for.

And this may add to your professional as well as personal growth.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23 - Dec 22: You have worked really hard till now,

technoLogy

www.GaneshaSpeaks.com and you may want to take it a little bit easy for the next few days.

It is a good idea and taking a back-seat may do you a world of good. This week, you will shift your focus from graveyard shifts to late night partying and pubbing. Your amusement will be the most important thing in life and everything else will be secondary.

CAPRICORN Dec 23 - Jan 20: WorWor rying will not help ease work pressure, and you will realize that a good break is the key to a good start. Fun, entertainment and social gatherings will have a magnetic effect on you. Career and business activities may also slow down, but it’s all a part of smart planning for future benefits. Desire for happiness will be a major driving force. Your easy-going attitude will be more pronounced now than it has been in the past.

AQUARIUS Jan 21 - Feb 19: Your love will motivate you to make the best of your abilities. The focus this week will, therefore, be on working hard. Listen to your inner voice for guidance on what you need to do next to excel, and achieve what you want. What you want may be prestige, social status, promotion and rewards, and these may come to you, but not because you slogged hard for it but because of your sheer determination.

PISCES Feb 20 - Mar 20: The realisation that a negative approach to work or a complete lack of interest can be disastrous will manifest itself over the course of this week. You are most likely to swing into action in several spheres.

You will also find yourself getting more involved in cash dealings and liquidation of assets. The quest for growth will be the chief driving force; you will starve for a change and will accept it whenever it comes your way.

E-mail us at: Indoamericannews @yahoo.com

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What is Radio Frequency Identification?

(TOI): Radio Frequency Identi- and a box that can be affixed to fication (RFID) is a gift of modern windshield to enable toll collectechnology, which incorporates tion without stopping the vehicle. the use of electromagnetic or elec- RFID tags could be active tags, trostatic, coupling in the radio fre- passive tags or semi-passive tags, quency (RF) portion of the elec- meaning they may lie dormant tromagnetic spectrum to uniquely or send information of varying identify an object, animal, or per- degrees and types, depending on son. how the chip is programmed.

RFID is used in place of bar codes in many retail markets globally.

The use of this technology is also made to keep a tab on animals in the wild, specially, the endangered species, and for the management of animals in advanced countries.

RFID uses communication via radio waves to exchange data between a reader and an electronic tag attached to an object, for the purpose of identification and tracking. Some tags can be read from The digestible capsule patent filed for by several meters away Kodak will help track problems in the huand beyond the line of man body using Radio frequency waves sight of the reader. To which will then be sent to the nearest data collector for health. Apart from this the miunderstand the technolcro chip implant into the human personogy of RFID, one first that will use similar technology is underneeds to understand way. They have already started implanting that it is chip-based. In such technology on our pets and elderly terms of technology, RFID has two components. There The use of RFID on humans is is a tag with a microchip in it. The however, rare. Indian students microchip in turn is attached to an at the Tri-Valley University, US, antenna that picks up signals from which has been declared as a and sends signals to a reader. The ‘sham’ university, have been retag contains a unique serial num- quired to wear anklet tags to moniber, but may have other informa- tor their movments. Many others tion, such as a customer’s account have been detained and released number. on bond. This has enraged exterTags come in many forms, such nal affairs minister S M Krishna, as the smart labels that are stuck who has said that the tagging of on boxes, smart cards and key- Indian students is “inhuman and chain wands for paying for items, unacceptable”.

Insult of the Week!

These insults are from an era before the English language got boiled down to 4-letter words: A member of Parliament to Disraeli: “Sir, you will either die on the gallows or of some unspeakable disease.”

“That depends, Sir,” said Disraeli, “whether I embrace your policies or your mistress.”

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InDIa

Indo American News • Friday, February 04, 2011

Indian Warship Collision Caught on Camera

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Smoke is seen rising from a ship inside the naval dockyard in Mumbai on January 31. Dramatic footage emerged on Tuesday of an Indian warship and a merchant vessel colliding off the coast of Mumbai, sparking panic and a fire that crippled the navy frigate. (AFP/Indranil Mukherjee)

MUMBAI (AFP) – Dramatic footage emerged on Tuesday of an Indian warship and a merchant vessel colliding off the coast of Mumbai, sparking panic and a fire that crippled the navy frigate. News channel NDTV aired the video footage taken from on board the INS Vindhyagiri, as it crossed paths on Sunday with the Cyprusflagged container ship MV Nordlake in the busy shipping lane.

Families of naval personnel were visiting the Vindhyagiri and the ship was returning to the city’s naval dockyard at the time of the incident. They were heard screaming as they realised

the two ships were on a collision course. The camera operator then appeared to be flung off balance by the impact, recovering to show men, women and children sprawled on deck amid overturned plastic seats.

About 150 people were on board the warship at the time of the collision with the MV Nordlake, which was leaving Mumbai. No one was seriously injured and ammunition was cleared off the Vindhyagiri, of officials said.

A naval board of inquiry is to investigate the cause of the crash, which came six months after two cargo ves-

sels collided on the same stretch, paralysing maritime traffic to the city’s busy ports for more than a week.

Defence ministry spokesman Captain M. Nambiar told AFP on Tuesday that contrary to some Indian media reports, the Vindhyagiri had not sunk and was hopeful that it could be refloated and repaired.

The ship’s keel had “touched bottom” and was listing in the shallow waters of the naval dockyard, he said. A clearer picture would emerge once an assessment was carried out of the damage to the hull. “It can be repaired,” Nambiar added.

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Indo American News • Friday, February 04, 2011

INDIA

online edition: www.indoamerican-news.com

India Approves Long-Delayed S. Korean Steel Mill Project

By Vikas Bajaj MUMBAI (NYT): An Indian ministry on Monday approved a longdelayed, $12 billion steel mill and port proposed by Posco, a South Korean company. Foreign companies and governments had been closely watching the project to gauge how receptive Indian officials were to big investment projects.

The decision, which is contingent on the company’s meeting 60 new requirements, comes nearly six years after Posco and the eastern Indian state of Orissa signed an agreement for the project, which would be the largest single foreign direct investment in India.

The Indian Ministry of Environment and Forests, which business executives have criticized in recent months for blocking significant industrial projects, gave its approval.

It said its concerns about the project would be addressed by the new conditions, which include safeguards for turtles and mangrove forests. The ministry also directed Posco to spend 2 percent of its profit on social welfare programs.

“Undoubtedly, projects such as that of Posco have considerable economic, technological and strategic significance for the country,” India’s minister for the environment, Jairam Ramesh, wrote in the approval document. “At the same time, laws on environment and forests must be implemented seriously.”

In recent months, some executives and analysts have criticized Mr.

Opposing Posco, an opposition group that represents villagers affected by the project. He said the decision ignored the findings of committees of experts that were appointed to study the project, which had advised against its approval.

Posco faces a number of other hurdles. The decision issued by the ministry for the environment, for instance, does not give the company permission to mine iron ore, the main raw material of steel. Orissa is rich in that natural resource, an important reason Posco wanted to build a plant

Ramesh, an engineer by training, for his opposition to several prominent industrial projects. Some Indian newspapers have taken to calling him “Dr. No.” In August, he blocked plans by Vedanta Resources to mine bauxite on a hill in Orissa that a local tribe considered sacred.

Mr. Ramesh, who declined to comment, has defended himself by saying he is simply enforcing India’s environmental laws, which were brazenly flouted in the past.

Disputes over big industrial projects have become more common in India in recent years as demand for manufactured goods has increased in the country’s fast-growing economy.

Analysts say that Indian officials have not yet figured how to strike the right balance among industry, the environment and the rights of local people.

The difficulty in getting projects

approved and acquiring land appear to have depressed foreign interest in India.As hedge funds and other financial investors poured money into the Indian stock market last year, direct investments by foreigners fell 27 percent, to $14 billion, from April to November, compared with the period a year earlier.

The Posco project has faced stiff opposition from environmentalists, villagers and tribes in Orissa, which sits on the Bay of Bengal. Opponents say the project will mar the state’s forests and coastline and dislocate hundreds of people. On Monday, one of the main groups opposed to the project said it would continue to try to block it.

“We strongly condemn this decision,” said Prashant Paikray, a spokesman for Posco Pratirodh Sangram Samiti, or the People’s Organization

and port there. The company’s plans are also contingent on the outcome of a court case filed by opponents against the state government.

“We fully appreciate the concerns of different stakeholders on sustainability of environment as well as livelihood of affected people,” G. W. Sung, the managing director of Posco India, said in a statement.

Separately on Monday, the Indian government said the economy grew 8 percent in the fiscal year that ended in March 2010, up from a previous estimate of 7.4 percent.

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Indo American News • Friday, February 04, 2011

39

World Cup will be Our Biggest Gift to Tendulkar: Says Dhoni NEW DELHI (TOI) : As Sachin Tendulkar gears up to play probably his last World Cup, the Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led Indian cricket team is desperate to make it a special one for him by gifting the champion batsman the trophy which has eluded the side for 28 years.

In his two-decade long illustrious career, during which he has featured in five World Cups since 1992, Tendulkar has virtually every batting record under his belt but a world title is the only trophy which is missing from his cupboard.

And Dhoni said his team will do whatever it takes to make it a memorable tournament for Tendulkar, who is approaching 38.

“We all love him (Tendulkar) a lot.

Most probably it is his last World Cup although we all want him to play many more World Cups. But practically speaking it seems impossible,” Dhoni told reporters during a promotional event.

“So, that (the World Cup trophy) can be the biggest gift from the team

to him,” he said.

“We believe in each others’ talent and we have a very good team. The environment in the dressing room is very good. And if we perform to our potential we have a very good chance of winning (the World Cup),” Dhoni added.

Dhoni termed the 2007 inaugural World Twenty20 title in South Africa as the biggest achievement of his captaincy career so far, but refused to make any predictions for the upcoming mega-event.

“It (World Twenty20 title) is the most memorable moment of my career since I made my debut in 2004 and it will always be there up in the league.

“But I don’t want to make any predictions for the (ODI) World Cup. I can only assure all that we will give our best. We play one game at a time.

So at present I am just thinking about the Bangladesh game (on February 19 in Dhaka),” he said.

Dhoni also hailed the format of this year’s World Cup and said it is

Poonia Hopes to be Back in Action

India’s gold medal winner Krishna Poonia in the women’s discus throw event of the Commonwealth Games 2010. File Photo.

NEWDELHI (Hindu):Ace woman thrower Krishna Poonia is recovering from her left-knee injury and hopes to be back in action in the middle of the year.

Poonia said she did not want to make a hurried comeback and repent later. “My injury is healed now and I am in the process of regaining strength in my left knee (which takes the maximum impact during the throws).

Once I feel that both my knees are equally strengthened, which I hope will happen in 20 days time, I will start training for the throws,” said the Commonwealth Games gold medallist on the sidelines of ‘Yuva Meet’ here on Monday.

Poonia, who also bagged a bronze medal in the Guangzhou Asian Games, wanted to take it step by step as far as her dream of making a mark in the 2012 London Olympics was concerned. “If things go as per planning, I should be back in compecompe titions in July this year. That gives me around a year’s time to qualify for the Olympics,” she said.

Poonia said she had to focus on her fitness in order to get back in top shape.

The 29-year-old, busy attending scores of felicitation functions, was delighted to get attention and recrec ognition for her medal-winning per performances. She was also thrilled to spend quality time with her family.

“It was difficult for me and my husband (who is also her coach) to stay away from our son for years. It is very relaxing now (to be with him),” she said, while hoping that the break would help her return to the throwing ring with a fresh mind.

a welcome change from the 2007 edition. In this year’s World Cup, 14 teams are divided into two groups of seven from where top four from each group will qualify for the quarterfinals unlike the 2007 edition, where 16 teams first competed in a pool stage, then a “super 8” stage, followed by semifinals and a final.

“It is a good format for us. It is a bit of relief from 2007. Here even if you lose a few games you have a chance to get into the quarterfinals,” Dhoni

said. “But it will be about playing consistent cricket. Whoever plays consistent cricket in the tournament will get into the knockout stage,” he added. Four years ago in the West Indies, weighed down by the pressure of expectations, India crashed out of the World Cup at the preliminary stage but Dhoni insisted that the present outfit is well prepared to handle the burden in the upcoming event.

“Now we call pressure added responsibility. We know the expecta-

tion level is high but we are prepared for it because we knew for long that the World Cup will be held in India.

Expectations is something which is beyond our control,” Dhoni said.

The Indian skipper was also satisfied with the 15 players he has got for the tournament. “I am really happy with the squad. I know I am the lone wicket-keeper in the team but it is not a worrying factor. If anything major happens to me, we can always bring in the reserve wicket-keeper as it is happening in India. But one wicketkeeper gives us the liberty of having one more variation in the side,” Dhoni said.

“We also have variety in our bowling department. We have not got express fast bowlers but we have got decent bowlers who are very skillful,” he said. Dhoni differed with England batsman Kevin Pietersen, who criticised the scheduling of the World Cup for having long gaps between matches.

“It is difficult to get a perfect schedule but I am quite happy with the schedule. Some of our players have got a few niggles and the gap will help them to recover,” Dhoni said.

With the controversial Umpire Decision Review System (UDRS) to be implemented in the tournament from the last eight round, the Indian captain said the teams will have to do their homework on the subject.

“We have done our background check although we have not used it (UDRS). It’s not that every team will be pleased with the system at the end of the day but we need to do our homework right,” Dhoni said.

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