hi INDiA | January 19, 2024 | The Community First

NATIONAL EDITION | Volume 13 • Issue No. 757 January 19 2024 | The Community First - News Update 24X7 | South Asian Views On Global News

India’s Largest Jewelry Retail Brand Now open in

Our wide range of gold and diamond jewels await your visit!

4300 E New York Street, Aurora, IL,60505 Opposite Fox Valley Mall Contact : +1 630-430-8286

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindialive /hiindialive

PUBLISHED PUBLISHED WEEKLY PUBLISHEDWEEKLY WEEKLY Hi Hi INDIA HiINDIA INDIA CORPORATE CORPORATEOFFICE OFFICE CORPORATE OFFICE: :: 6525 6525N. Crawfordave., ave., 6525 N.Crawford Crawford ave., Lincolnwood, Lincolnwood,ILL ILL 60712 Lincolnwood, ILL60712 60712 advt@hiindiaweekly.com advt@hiindiaweekly.com advt@hiindiaweekly.com EAST EAST COAST EASTCOAST COAST: :: Tel.: Tel.: 773.684.4058 Tel.:773.684.4058 773.684.4058 Advertising Advertising Advertising: :773.552.6083 : 773.552.6083 773.552.6083 editor@hiindiaweekly.com editor@hiindiaweekly.com editor@hiindiaweekly.com

@hiindia @hiindia

No Cost to You

Travel Certificates At-Home Pickup COVID-19 Positive?

We test for variants

INTERNATIONAL INTERNATIONALNEWS NEWSEDITOR EDITOR INTERNATIONAL NEWS EDITOR Yogesh Yogeshbrahmbhatt brahmbhatt Yogesh brahmbhatt SPECIAL SPECIALCORRESPONDENT CORRESPONDENT SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT Ajai Agnihotri Ajai Agnihotri Ajai Agnihotri Zofeen Maqsood Zofeen Maqsood Zofeen Maqsood

MILWAUKEEBUREAU BUREAU MILWAUKEE MILWAUKEE BUREAU MILWAUKEEADVERTISING ADVERTISING MILWAUKEE MILWAUKEE ADVERTISING Dinesh Sanghavi Dinesh DineshSanghavi Sanghavi (414) 771.3535 (414) (414)771.3535 771.3535 AHMEDABAD BUREAU

AHMEDABAD BUREAU AHMEDABAD BUREAU YOGESH BRAHMBHATT YOGESH YOGESHBRAHMBHATT BRAHMBHATT MUMBAI BUREAU ADVERTISING VIMAL N. UPADHYAYA ADVERTISING +91 98676 26290 | vimal@hiindia.com Hemant Brahmbhaatt Hemant Brahmbhaatt ADVERTISING GRAPHIC DESIGNER GRAPHIC DESIGNER HemantBrahmbhatt Brahmbhaatt Yogesh Yogesh Brahmbhatt Ibrahim IbrahimKeriwala Keriwala GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jitendra JitendraKumar Yogesh Brahmbhatt |Kumar Ibrahim Keriwala Jitendra Kumar PHOTO PHOTO WEB SITE PHOTO///WEB WEB SITE SITE Jinesh JineshModi Modi//Vijay Vijay Shah Jinesh Modi VijayShah Shah

330 330 Georgetown Georgetown Square Square Wood Wood Dale, Dale, IL IL 60191 60191 Open 630-214-3800 630-214-3800 emi.fukuda@neelyx.com emi.fukuda@neelyx.com 7 days www.neelyx.com www.neelyx.com SHOPPING SHOPPING FOR FOR CAR CAR INSURANCE? INSURANCE? CALL CALL ME ME FIRST. FIRST.

ACCOUNTS ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE ACCOUNTSEXECUTIVE EXECUTIVE Purnima Purnima Brahmbhatt PurnimaBrahmbhatt Brahmbhatt

AVERAGE AVERAGE ANNUAL ANNUAL SAVINGS: SAVINGS:

SOCIAL SOCIAL MEDIA MEDIA LINKS LINKS /hiindialive /hiindialive @hiindia @hiindia /hiindiaNews /hiindiaNews 773-526-8353 773-526-8353 hihiINDIA INDIAisis published publishedweekly weekly by byhihiINDiA, INDiA,Inc. Inc.3152 3152W. W.Devon DevonAve, Ave,C-3 C-3 Chicago, Chicago,IL IL60659 60659

hi hiINDiA, INDiA,Inc. Inc.

All Allright rightreserved reservedasas totothe theentire entirecontent. content. hihiINDiA INDiAisisaatrademark trademarkofof hihiINDiA INDiAInc. Inc. Copyright Copyright2022 2022 DISCLAIMER DISCLAIMER hihiINDiA INDiAmakes makesno nowarranties warrantiesororrepresentations representations asastotothe theaccuracy accuracyofofthe thecontent contentand andassumes assumes no no liability liability oror responsibility responsibility for for any any error error ororomission omissionininthe thecontent. content.hihiINDiA INDiAisisnot not responsible responsibleororliable liablefor forany anyclaims claimsmade madeinin advertisements. advertisements.Any Anyquestions questionsororcomments comments concerning concerningadvertisements advertisementsororclassifieds classifiedsininthis this newspaper newspapershould shouldbebedirected directedtotothe theadvertiser. advertiser.

The Theviews, views,advice, advice,opinions opinionsand andinformation informationinin letters letterstotothe theeditor, editor,analysis analysissection, section,legal legalsection section ororany anyother otherarticle articleininthis thispublication publicationare arethose those ofofthe thewriters writersand anddo donot notnecessarily necessarilyrepresent represent those thoseofofhihiINDiA, INDiA,Inc. Inc.

FRIDAY, FRIDAY,APRIL APRIL15, 15,2022 2022

COVID-19 RT-PCR Testing

EDITOR EDITOR EDITOR C.C.H. H.Murthy Murthy C. H. Murthy

ST. ST. LOUIS ST.LOUIS LOUIS Ashwin AshwinPatel, Patel,(314) 423.9990 Ashwin Patel, (314)423.9990 423.9990

773.526.8353 773.526.8353

/hiindiaNews /hiindiaNews

PUBLISHEREDITOR PUBLISHER-MANAGING MANAGING PUBLISHERMANAGING EDITOR EDITOR Hemant HemantBrahmbhaatt Brahmbhaatt Hemant Brahmbhaatt hemant@hiindiaweekly.com hemant@hiindiaweekly.com hemant@hiindiaweekly.com (773)552-6083 (773)552-6083 (773)552-6083 MAIN OFFICE MAIN MAIN OFFICE OFFICE Tel: Tel:(773) (773)338-0222 338-0222 Tel: (773) 338-0222 Fax: Fax:(773) (773)338-0688 338-0688 Fax: (773) 338-0688

CONTRIBUTING REPORTERS CONTRIBUTING REPORTERS CONTRIBUTING REPORTERS Dr. Nilesh D. Mehta Dr. Nilesh D. Mehta Dr. Nilesh D. Mehta Aditi Aditi Brahmbhatt AditiBrahmbhatt Brahmbhatt

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

773.526.8353

/hiindiaNews

356

$ $

**

DRIVERS CHED DRIVERSWHO WHOSWIT SWIT CHEDFROM: FROM: Geico Geico

$ saved saved 305 averagewith withAllstate Allstate 305 *ononaverage

Progressive Progressive

$ saved 478 *ononaverage saved 478 averagewith withAllstate Allstate

State StateFarm Farm

$ saved 318 *ononaverage saved 318 averagewith withAllstate Allstate

$ $ $

* * *

Put Putyour yourpolicy policyto tothe thetest. test.

Drivers who switched to Drivers who switched toAllstate Allstatesaved savedan anaverage averageof of$356* $356*aayear. year.

So Sowhen whenyou're you'reshopping shoppingfor forcar carinsurance, insurance,call callme mefirst. first.You Youcould could be besurprised surprisedby byhow howmuch muchyou'll you'llsave. save.

Patel PatelInsurance Insurance 847-847-2090 847-847-2090

837 837E. E.Schaumburg SchaumburgRd. Rd. Schaumburg, Schaumburg,IlIl60194 60194 * Savings * based on national customer reported data for new policies written in 2016. Actual savings vary. Discounts subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Fire &

Savings based on national customer reported data for new policies written in 2016. Actual savings vary. Discounts subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Fire & Casualty CasualtyIns. Ins.Co., Co.,Allstate AllstateVehicle Vehicle&&Property PropertyIns. Ins.Co., Co.,Allstate AllstateProperty Property&&Casualty CasualtyIns. Ins.Co. Co.&&affiliates: affiliates:2775 2775Sanders SandersRd. Rd.Northbrook, Northbrook,ILIL60062.

60062.©©2018 2018Allstate AllstateInsurance InsuranceCo. Co.

9348357 9348357

2 22

*NOTICE *NOTICE

hihiINDiA INDiAweekly weeklynewspaper newspaperdistribute distributefree freecopies copiesfor forreaders, readers,community communityfor forbenefit benefitofofour ourreaders readersasaswell wellasasadvertiser. advertiser.hihiINDiA INDiAreserves reservesit’s it’sright righttotodistribute distributecopies copieslimited limitedtoto11free freecopy copyper perreader readerwhich which isisavailable availableininthe thestores storesnear neartotoyour yourarea, area,However Howeverififyou youneed needmore morecopies, copies,reader readercan cancall callususand andwe wewill willsend sendyou youthe thecopies copiesvia viamail mailorordeliver delivertotoyou you@@$2.00 $2.00per percopy. copy. We Wedistribute distributeour ourcopies copiesonly onlyatat major majorIndo-Pak Indo-Pakstores, stores,where wherewe wehave haveobtained obtainedthe thepermission permissionfrom fromthe theowner ownerofofthe thelocation. location.We Wereserve reservethe theright righttotoprotect protectour ourcopies copiesfrom fromillegal illegalactivities activitieslike, like,picking pickingup upmore morethan thanone onecopy copyfor forother other than thanreading readingpurposes. purposes.We Wewatch watchour ourinventory inventoryatatthe thestores storesconstantly constantlyand andwe wewill willnotify notifyauthorities authoritiesofofany anyand andall allillegal illegalactivities activitiesasaswell wellasaswill willfile filelaw-suite law-suitefor forthe thepunitive punitivedamages. damages.

Subscribe Free ePaper & News Updates on WhatsApp. Send us ‘hi’ to

7735268353

NATIONAL EDITION | Volume 13 • Issue No. 756 January 12, 2024 | The Community First - News Update 24X7 | South Asian Views On Global News

Having Sex With "Numerous" Teenage Boys

A E Jean Carroll trial: Judge threatens to remove Trump from court Page No. 4

Kamala Harris Says She Is "Scared As Heck" Of Trump's White House Return US President Election 2024: Ms Harris was responding to a question about reports former president Barack Obama was concerned with the Biden campaign.

Page No. 8

former teacher's aide has admitted i n fe d e r a l c ou r t t o h av i n g "numerous" sexual relationships with teenage boys while working at an elementary school in Kentucky, US. According to the New York Post, Ellen Phillips, 38, pleaded guilty on Friday to attempted online enticement of a minor to engage in sexual conduct. Her victims were boys between the ages of 14 and 16. She confessed before the judge that she would sometimes have sex with multiple boys at the same time.

"Phillips would communicate with the victims via Snapchat, Facebook, or text messaging and, in many instances, would meet the victims for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity," a statement from federal prosecutors read.

She also "specifically admitted that on December 20, 2022, she attempted to entice a 15-year-old minor to engage in sexual activity.

In this conversation, Phillips messaged the victim using Facebook and repeatedly attempted to get the victim to sneak out of his house for sexual activity," the statement added.

The press release noted that when the boy told her that he could not leave, she offered him alcohol and oral sex if he could sneak out.

It also said that the 38-year-old offered the victim excuses that he could tell his mother as to why he had to leave the house.

4

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

USA NEWS

E Jean Carroll trial:

Judge threatens to remove Trump from court

US launches fourth round of Apple watch: US ban on sale strikes on Houthi targets in Yemen upholds over patent dispute

HiIndia Newsdesk

Donald Trump's lawyers accused E Jean Carroll of courting publicity on Wednesday, as she said her reputation was left "shattered" after accusing him of sexual assault in the 1990s.

The second day of the civil defamation trial featured several fiery exchanges.

At one point, the judge threatened to kick Mr Trump out of court after he was overheard criticising her testimony.

A jury found Mr Trump liable for sexually abusing Ms Carroll last year, but he continues to deny the claim.

He was found liable for sexual abuse and defamation, though not for rape, and Ms Carroll was awarded $5m. That trial was based on his 2022 remarks that her story was a "con job" and a "hoax".

The current case focuses on different remarks - which the judge has already ruled were defamatory - that Mr Trump made while he was president in 2019, when he called her allegation "totally false".

This second trial will determine additional damages. But much of Wednesday's proceedings were marked by angry exchanges between Mr Trump and the judge, who threatened to revoke the former president's right to attend trial after a lawyer for Ms Carroll heard him call the case a "witch hunt" and criticise his accuser's memory within earshot of the jury.

US officials say 40 Boeing jets have been inspected

HiIndia Newsdesk

HiIndia Newsdesk

The US has carried out a fourth round of strikes on Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, Pentagon officials confirmed on Wednesday night.

Some 14 Houthi missiles, which the US says may have been intended for attacks on shipping in the Red Sea, were targeted by American forces.

Centcom - the US Middle East command - said the sites were struck by Tomahawk missiles fired from US Navy vessels. The strikes come as the US designated the

Houthis as "global terrorists".

US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said the move, which reversed a decision to remove the designation in the early days of the Biden administration, was in response to the militants' ongoing attacks on commercial shipping in the region. The Houthis began attacking merchant vessels in November, saying they were responding to Israel's military operation in Gaza. Since then, the group has launched dozens of attacks on commercial tankers passing through the Red Sea, one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.

Many Cities In US To Turn Ghost Town By 2100, Says Study

Families of American hostages held in Gaza to meet US NSA today

The study's authors noted that the significant decrease in population could pose unprecedented challenges.

HiIndia Newsdesk

A new study suggests that by the year 2100, almost half of the 30,000 cities in the United States might see a decrease in population, ranging from 12% to 23%. It doesn't mean entire cities will be abandoned, but many could become smaller, with neighborhoods changing and suburbs expanding. This change won't happen all at once; it will be a gradual process. Some cities that were once thriving might lose people, while

others in warmer areas could keep growing. The study points out that people will move around, creating different patterns of growth and decline.

The important takeaway is that local governments and city planners have a big role in deciding how this future will look.

By preparing for these changes, improving infrastructure, and focusing on what the community needs, cities can adapt and stay lively places to live. The authors of the study said that the implications of this massive decline in population will bring unprecedented challenges, possibly leading to disruptions in basic services like transit, clean water, electricity, and internet access.

California has 95% chance of damaging earthquake in next century HiIndia Newsdesk

Federal officials have briefed a congressional committee on their investigations into a jetliner that lost a panel of its fuselage in midflight this month and revealed that airlines have inspected 40 identical Boeing planes.

The Federal Aviation Administration said it will review information from those inspections of Boeing 737 Max 9 jets while it develops a maintenance process before letting the planes carry passengers again.

Apple has once again been banned from selling two smartwatch models in the US, while a legal battle continues over a patent dispute. The tech giant was earlier allowed to sell its Series 9 and Ultra 2 watches while proceedings were ongoing - but a US appeals court has since reversed that decision.

Imports of watches are also affected.

On Thursday, Apple said it will release watches without the disputed blood oxygen feature to keep them on shelves.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Los Angeles: (IANS) California has a more than 95 per cent chance or greater of enduring a damaging earthquake over the next 100 years, reveals a new US Geological Survey (USGS) map.

While California is particularly at

risk, nearly 75 per cent of the Un could experience potentially damaging earthquakes and intense ground shaking, threatening the lives of hundreds of millions of people in the next century, Xinhua news agency reported citing the map The agency led a team of more than 50 scientists and engineers working on the latest USGS National Seismic Hazard Model. The model created a colorcoded map showing where damaging earthquakes are most likely to occur in the country based on insights from seismic studies, historical geologic data and the latest data-collection technologies.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Washington: (IANS) The families of American hostages being held captive by Hamas militants in Gaza will meet US National Security Adviser (NSA) Jake Sullivan at the White House on Thursday, an official said. The official told CNN that the White House has extended invitations to the family members of all six hostages.

But it was not immediately clear how many of them will attend the meeting.

Blinken forced to change planes

HiIndia Newsdesk

Washington: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had to change planes while returning to Washington from Davos after his Boeing 737 aircraft had a "critical failure", the media reported. Blinken was in Davos this week to attend meetings on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in the Swiss city.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

5

6

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

airport closes Mayors call for action as extortionists Oslo amid heavy snowfall target Indians, South Asians in Canada

HiIndia Newsdesk

Toronto: (IANS) Raising concerns over an “alarming” escalation of extortion threats against Indian and South Asian business communities, mayors in the Canadian towns of Brampton and Surrey have urged the government to take swift action to root out the menace.

Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and his counterpart from Surrey Brenda Locke expressed “deep concern” over a growing number of “extortion attempts and violent acts, including shootings” this week in a letter addressed to Canada’s Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc.

“This alarming development underscores

contact them through social media, and the severity and widespread nature of these threats, which are predominantly demands for money allegedly are made under threats of violence, police said. targeting members of the South Asian The mayors urged the government to business community," the letter read. prioritise the issue and engage with local The mayors said that the Royal Canadian and provincial authorities, along with Mounted Police (RCMP) and local necessary federal agencies, to develop police departments, including Peel Regional Police, "have acknowledged a "comprehensive strategy to address these extortion threats". the gravity of the situation".

According to CP24 news channel, Peel “The complexity and inter-jurisdictional nature of these crimes necessitate a police recently launched the Extortion Investigative Task Force, which is now more comprehensive strategy involving provincial and federal authorities. It probing the circumstances surrounding is imperative the federal government, 16 incidents of extortion. through your Ministry, takes a leading The suspects often know the name of the victim as well as their phone number, role in facilitating this collaboration,” address, and business information, and the letter continued.

Japan Airlines appoints first female president

China records population decline for second straight year

HiIndia Newsdesk

HiIndia Newsdesk

China's population has declined for a second consecutive year, underscoring concerns about the future growth of the world's second-largest economy.

Data released on Wednesday showed a population of 1.409 billion at the end Mitsuko Tottori HiIndia Newsdesk

Tokyo: (IANS) Japan Airlines (JAL) on Wednesday announced its decision to promote senior executive Mitsuko Tottori to the position of president, making the first time that a woman will hold the top post in the flag carrier's history.

Tottori, 59, now representative director and senior managing executive officer, will become the first female president of the Japanese carrier as she assumes the post on April 1, reports Xinhua news agency.

Tottori, who joined the airline in 1985, will also become the first JAL president with a flight attendant background, according to the biography attached to the company's online statement.Yuji Akasaka, the current president, will become chairman with representative authority after April 1.

of 2023 - a 2.08m decrease from 2022.

The most recent decline is double that of the previous year, which marked the first population drop in 60 years.

But experts say this fall is expected given the country's expanding urban class and record-low birth rate.

Beijing on Wednesday said the birth rate was now down to 6.39 per 1,000 people on par with other advanced East Asian nations such as Japan and South Korea.

The country has seen falling birth rates for decades - after imposing a controversial one child-policy in the 1980s to control over-population at the time.

Ukraine won't hold elections under martial law: Parliament Speaker

HiIndia Newsdesk

Kiev: (IANS) Ukrainian authorities have decided not to hold parliamentary and presidential elections amid the ongoing martial law which was imposed in the wake of Russia's invasion in February 2022, Parliament Speaker Ruslan Stefanchuk said.

"It has been decided that elections will not be held in Ukraine while martial law is in place," Xinhua news agency quoted

Stefanchuk as saying. There were many discussions at both the parliamentary and government levels in Ukraine over the possible elections, he said. Kiev also held consultations with its partners over the issue, in particular with foreign parliament speakers, the Speaker added.

Ukraine was due to hold parliamentary elections in October last year, while the presidential elections were initially slated for spring 2024.

President Volodymyr Zelensky declared the martial law on February 24 2022, just hours after Russia launched its war against Ukraine.

In a televised address to the nation, he had clarified that all able-bodied men from 18–60 years old were not allowed to leave the country as the country began a general mobilisation of all reserve forces.

Oslo: (IANS) Oslo's main airport remain closed with other means of transport lso severely disrupted amid heavy snowfall in Norway's capital region.

All departures from Oslo Airport were halted as of 1 p.m. on Wednesday afternoon and landings eventually ceased as well, Xinhua news agency quoted Norway's national broadcaster NRK reported as saying. The airport was expected to remain closed for several hours, as the snowfall was too intense for ground lights to be visible, it quoted Cathrine Framholt, communications manager at the airport's operator Avinor, as saying.

Not guilty, says ex-Indian origin Singapore Minister

HiIndia Newsdesk

Singapore: (IANS) Following his recent resignation as Singapore's Transport Minister, Indian-origin S. Iswaran on Thursday pleaded not guilty to all 27 charges, including corruption, obtaining a valuable thing as a public servant and obstructing justice. Arriving at the State Courts at about 8 am on Thursday with his legal team, the 61-year-old former minister did not respond to questions from reporters, The Straits Times reported.

When the judge asked Iswaran how he intended to plead, he said: “Not guilty."

British lawmakers pass PM's Rwanda bill HiIndia Newsdesk

London: (IANS) Lawmakers in Britain voted in favour of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Rwanda bill, designed to confirm that Rwanda is a safe third country for relocating individuals there. The bill, key to the government's Rwanda plan, passed the House of Commons with 320 votes in favour and 276 votes against on Wednesday. It will now go to the House of Lords, Parliament's upper chamber, for its first reading. "The passing of the bill tonight marks a major step in our plan to stop the boats," said a spokesperson for the Prime Minister's office.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

7

773.526.8353

BID DEADLINE FEB. 21

SERVICE STATION PORTFOLIO TREMENDOUS UPSIDE POTENTIAL FIVE LOCATIONS NEAR DES MOINES, IA

Properties Available for Purchase Individually, in Any Combination, or in the Portfolio’s Entirety • 315 Story St., Boone, IA • 1704 S. Story St., Boone, IA • 1115 IA Hwy. 141, Perry, IA • 1219 1st Ave., Perry, IA • 3501 EP True Pkwy., West Des Moines, IA

RECENTLY REBRANDED AS CIRCLE K

855.755.2300 HilcoRealEstate.com

HOME OF

8 What India Said On Iran's Air Strikes In Pakistan

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

INDIA NEWS

Pakistan Retaliates With Strikes On "Militant Targets" In Iran, 7 Killed

Pakistan claimed "a number of terrorists" were killed during the intelligence-based operation codenamed "Marg Bar Sarmachar" in Iran.

HiIndia Newsdesk

HiIndia Newsdesk

New Delhi: India on Wednesday said that Iran's missile attack on Pakistan is an issue that "concerns only those two nations".

"This is a matter between Iran and Pakistan. Insofar as India is concerned, we have an uncompromising position of zero tolerance towards terrorism. We understand actions that countries take in their self defense," the Ministry of External Affairs said in an official statement.

What US, China Said The US' State Department has criticised Iran for violating the sovereign borders of three nations in 48 hours. Washington is currently leading strikes against Houthi militants in the Red Sea region, who are widely seen as backed by Tehran and who have been designated "global terrorists" by the US. "I think it is a little rich... on one hand Iran (is) the leading funder of terrorism in the region, and, on the other hand, (it claims) it needs to take these actions to counter terrorism," State Department spokesman Matthew Miller told reporters.

Beijing has taken a more neutral position. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told reporters, "We call on the two sides to avoid actions that escalate tension, and jointly keep the region peaceful."

Assam govt most corrupt in India

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

New Delhi: Pakistan on Thursday carried out strikes against "terrorist hideouts" in Iran, a day after warning Tehran of "serious consequences" over its attack on the Balochi group Jaish alAdl's headquarters in its territory.

"A number of terrorists" were killed during the intelligence-based operation codenamed "Marg Bar Sarmachar", Pakistan's Foreign Ministry said. Iranian media, however, reported that seven people including four children were killed in the attack.

The retaliatory strikes came days after Iran attacked "terrorist targets" in Pakistan, an attack that Islamabad claimed killed two children.

"This morning Pakistan undertook a series of highly coordinated and

specifically targeted precision military strikes against terrorist hideouts in Siestan-o-Baluchistan province of

Iran," Pakistan's Foreign Ministry said in an official statement. Calling Iran a "brotherly country", Islamabad said that the action was a "manifestation of Pakistan's unflinching resolve" to protect and defend its national security against all threats. "The sole objective of today's act was in pursuit of Pakistan's own security and national interest which is paramount and cannot be compromised," the Ministry said, adding that Islamabad "fully respects" the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iran.

Railways to 3 BSF personnel injured in attack against Indian collaborate with Swiss security forces in Manipur's Thoubal railway

HiIndia Newsdesk

Imphal: (IANS) Unidentified armed assailants fired at security forces in Manipur's Thoubal district, leading to three BSF personnel sustaining bullet injuries, police officials said here on Thursday.

According to the officials, "some armed cadres of unidentified groups" attempted to attack the Thoubal district police headquarters late Wednesday night and fired on the security personnel, who repulsed the attack.

The armed cadres had mingled among an irate crowd that had gathered at the headquarters.

Of the three BSF personnel, two were Assistant Sub-Inspectors (ASI) Sobram Singh and Ramji.

The third was identified as constable Gourav Kumar.

They were shifted to a private hospital in Imphal.

A police official said that the mob targeted the 3rd Manipur Armed Battalion headquarters at Khangabok in Thoubal District.

“Security forces repelled them using the minimum necessary force. Further, the mob attempted to breach Thoubal Police headquarters, prompting the security forces to use force. Armed miscreants from among the mob fired with live rounds. As a result, three personnel from BSF sustained bullet injuries”, a police statement said.

As a result of the incident, a total curfew was imposed in Thoubalt and the security have been further tightened in the entire district.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Indian Railways plans to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the Swiss railway to learn from some of their best practices and procedures including the hub and spoke model and tunnelling technology, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Thursday.

In an interview with PTI here during the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting, the minister sad there are many good things that can be learned and there are some conventional technologies also where we can learn by collaborating with Switzerland.

Kamala Harris Says She Is "Scared As Smriti Irani Credits PM Modi For Prioritising Heck" Of Trump's White House Return Women's Dignity US President Election 2024: Ms Harris was responding to a question about reports former president Barack Obama was concerned with the Biden campaign.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Soon after 'Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra' entered Assam, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday claimed that perhaps the "most corrupt government" in India is functioning in the state. Addressing party workers at Halowating in Sivasagar district, where the march entered Assam from Nagaland, Gandhi slammed the ruling BJP and its ideologue Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) for "spreading hatred and looting public money". "Perhaps, the most corrupt government in India is in Assam.

You know what is happening here.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Washington: US Vice President Kamala Harris said Wednesday she was "scared as heck" that Donald Trump would return to the White House in the November election and urged Democrats to "fight back." Her comments came after Trump stormed to victory on Monday in the Iowa caucuses, the first step in the Republican nomination race to challenge President Joe Biden later this year.

"I am scared as heck, which is why I'm traveling our country... we should all be scared," she told The View, an all femalehosted talk show on the ABC network.

But the 59-year-old Harris added: "We don't run away from something when we're scared, we fight back against it."

Harris was responding to a question about reports former president Barack Obama was concerned with the Biden campaign, and to comments by ex-first lady Michelle Obama saying she was "terrified" of a second Trump term.

Biden has stepped up direct attacks on Trump recently, warning that the twiceimpeached former president -- who faces 91 criminal indictments -- poses a threat to US democracy.

HiIndia Newsdesk

New Delhi: Union Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi prioritised sanitation and women's dignity. She also cited the Union government's initiatives like the Jan Dhan Yojana and MUDRA as measures that increased women's financial access. "In 2014 PM @NarendraModi prioritised sanitation and women's dignity, soon constructing 110 million toilets.

True success lies in comprehensive parity, extending beyond equal pay to empowering women in decisionmaking

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

9

10

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

DIASPORA NEWS

Cutting off foreign students, temporary workers will hit Canadian economy: Report HiIndia Newsdesk

Toronto: (IANS) Closing doors to temporary workers and foreign students allowed into Canada would blunt the country's economic recovery and deepen recession, a capital market company has warned.

According to predictions by Montrealbased Desjardins Securities, the country's real GDP will grow just 0.1 per cent in 2024 and an average of about 1.95 per cent annually from 2025 through 2028.

But if it were to shut the door to temporary residents, real GDP would drop by 0.7 per cent in 2024 and grow an average of 1.78 per cent annually over the following four years, Bloomberg News said, citing the report.

On the other hand, if it doubles the pace of non-permanent resident admissions, the country would experience a milder economic

UK Post Office scandal Indian-origin elderly battles for compensation

The students will now have to show at least in their $20,635 account on top of their one-year tuition fees, and if they bring one family member with them, they will need to show an additional $4,000 slowdown than anticipated and avoid a potential recession altogether, Randall Bartlett, Desjardins' senior director of Canadian economics, said.

London: (IANS) An Indian-origin postmaster continues to battle for compensation, three years after his conviction was quashed in what is being remembered as one of the most widespread miscarriage of justice in British legal history.

Vipin Patel, 70, who ran the Horspath Post Office in Oxford for five years, was among hundreds of employees falsely accused of theft and fraud by the Post Office over a 15-year period because of an accounting software glitch.

He was charged with stealing GBP75,000 from the Post Office, convicted of fraud, and given an 18week suspended prison sentence in 2011, the Oxford Mail newspaper said.

Following a television drama on the scandal aired this month, the UK government said it would introduce new legislation to make sure the victims of the Post Office scandal are swiftly exonerated and compensated.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said in the Commons that a new upfront payment of 75,000 pounds ($95,000) will be offered to a group of former postmasters who took their case against the Post Office to the High Court in 2019. Patel's son, Varchas, said that his parents are "really pleased" that the television show raised public awareness, "but they are still battling for compensation".

their one-year tuition fees, and if they bring one family member with them, they will need to show an additional $4,000.

The North American nation accepted 454,590 new permanent residents over the 12-month period to October 1, while bringing in a record 804,690 non-permanent residents, which includes temporary workers, foreign students and refugees.

According to Bartlett, Much of Canada's population growth -- now one of the fastest in the world -- comes from non-permanent residents, temporary foreign workers and students.

The nation opened its doors to immigrants to replace aging workers and fill labour gaps, but the boom in numbers has put a strain on the country's resources and needs to be reconsidered, according to the country's top economists.

Indian-American Schoolgirl, 9, Named Indian-origin man in sentenced for gym In "World's Brightest" Student List UK thefts to fund lavish She aced in the test's verbal and quantitative sections - on par with the 99th percentile of advanced Grade 5 performances - and bagged the Grand Honors, according to the press release.

Preesha Chakraborty is a lifetime member of the universally renowned Mensa Foundation HiIndia Newsdesk

Real GDP would then grow 1 per cent in 2024, and top 2.1 per cent on average after that, Bartlett said in a report released last week. The report comes as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faces backlash over rising cost of living, and growing inflation, acknowledging the need for adjustments in immigration policy.

In one of the most recent moves to address these issues, the government decided to double the amount of money that international students need to show to get a study visa.

"It would be a mistake to blame international students for the housing crisis. But it will also be a mistake to invite them to come to Canada with no support, including how to put a roof over their heads," Immigration Minister Marc Miller had said while making the announcement in December.

The students will now have to show at least in their $20,635 account on top of

HiIndia Newsdesk

Washington, US: Preesha Chakraborty, a nine-year-old Indian-American schoolgirl, was named in the "world's brightest" students list by the prestigious Johns Hopkins Centre for Talented Youth, based on the results of above-grade-level tests of over 16,000 students across 90 countries.

Preesha is a Warm Spring Elementary school student in Fremont, California, and took the US-based Johns Hopkins Centre for Talented Youth (JH-CTY) test in Summer 2023 as a Grade 3 student, a media release said on Monday.

Preesha figured in the list after the results of above-grade-level tests of over 16,000 students from more than 90 countries around the world were assessed, it said.

She was honoured for her exceptional performance on the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test), ACT (American College Testing), School and College Ability Test, or similar assessments as part of the CTY Talent Search.

Less than 30 percent of students qualify each year for either High Honors or Grand Honors/SET based on their test scores.

She aced in the test's verbal and quantitative sections - on par with the 99th percentile of advanced Grade 5 performances - and bagged the Grand Honors, according to the press release.

The achievement qualifies Preesha

for more than 250 Johns Hopkins CTY's Online and On-Campus Programmes for advanced students in grades 2-12 in mathematics, computer programming, chemistry, physics, reading, and writing.

Preesha is a lifetime member of the universally renowned Mensa Foundation, the oldest high-IQ society in the world, where membership is open to people who score at the 98th percentile or higher on a standardised, supervised IQ or other approved intelligence test. She achieved this accomplishment at age six by securing 99 percentiles in the national level NNAT (Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test), which assesses K-12 students for gifted and talented programmes.

Preesha loves travelling, hiking, and mixed martial arts outside of her studies. According to her parents, Preesha has always been passionate about learning and has consistently displayed exceptional academic abilities. "This is not just recognition of students' performance on one test, but a testament to their curiosity and capacity for learning," Amy Shelton, Executive Director of the CTY, said.

"These students have demonstrated enormous potential, and now we encourage them to seek out experiences and communities that help them challenge and stretch their knowledge, connect with other young scholars, understand diverse perspectives, think critically, and pursue their goals confidently," Shelton said.

lifestyle

HiIndia Newsdesk

London: (IANS) An Indian-origin man and his partner have been sentenced for breaking into gym lockers and stealing bank cards to pay for their lavish lifestyles in south east London.

Ashley Singh (39) and Sophie Bruyea (20) of Widmore Road in Bromley, would visit gyms and rifle through victims' lockers as they got busy in their workouts, the Metropolitan Police said on Monday.

The pair would then max out their victims’ credit cards on expensive tech and designer gear, before selling them on and using the cash to buy bags, shoes, holidays and a pedigree puppy.

The duo was sentenced at Croydon Crown Court on January 10 to conspiracy to commit fraud by false representation between January 2022 and January 2023 with a total value of 250,000 pounds.

Singh was sentenced to three years’ imprisonment while Bruyea received a 20 months sentence at a young offenders’ institute, suspended for two years. The court also asked her to undergo a rehabilitation programme and complete 120 hours of unpaid work.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

11

773.526.8353

CURRENT AFFAIRS

Indian Students Skip Canada Amid Political Row, Minister Says 86% Drop HiIndia Newsdesk

Ottawa: The number of study permits Canada issued to Indian students fell sharply late last year after India ejected Canadian diplomats who would process the permits and fewer Indian students applied due to a diplomatic dispute over the murder of Khalistani terrorist in Canada, a top Canadian official told Reuters.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller added in an interview that he believes the number of study permits to Indians is unlikely to rebound soon. Diplomatic tensions erupted after Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in June said there was evidence connecting Indian agents to the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia.

The tensions are likely to weigh on the numbers going forward, Miller said.

"Our relationship with India has really halved our ability to process a lot of applications from India," Miller said. In October, Canada was forced to pull 41 diplomats, or two-thirds of its staff, out of India on orders from New Delhi. In addition, the dispute has prompted Indian students to seek to study in other countries, a spokeswoman for the minister said. Those factors led to an 86% drop in study permits issued

India-Canada Row: Indians have formed the largest group of international students in Canada in recent years, with more than 41% - or 225,835 - of all permits going to them in 2022. to Indians in the fourth quarter of last year from the previous quarter, to 14,910 from 108,940, according to official data that have not been previously reported.

C. Gurus Ubramanian, counselor for the High Commission of India in Ottawa, said some Indian international students were looking at other options besides Canada due to "concerns, in the recent past, regarding lack of residential and adequate teaching facilities" at some Canadian institutions.

Indians have formed the largest group of international students in Canada

in recent years, with more than 41% - or 225,835 - of all permits going to them in 2022. "I can't tell you about how the diplomatic relationship will evolve, particularly if police were to lay charges," Miller said. "It's not something that I see any light at the end of the tunnel on."

International students are a cash cow for Canadian universities as they bring in about C$22 billion ($16.4 billion) annually and slowdown will be a blow to the institutions.

In June, Canada said there were "credible" allegations linking Indian agents to the murder of Nijjar in

a Vancouver suburb. India has rejected that allegation. Canadian authorities have yet to charge anyone for the killing.

The Canadian government also has been seeking to reduce the overall number of international students entering the country, in part as a response to an ongoing housing shortage.

"Right now we have a challenge with the sheer volume" of students coming in, Miller said. "It's just gotten out of control and needs to be reduced - I would say significantly over a short period of time." Miller said the government would introduce other measures to lower the volume of international students during the first half of this year, including a possible cap.

Canada is a popular destination for international students since it is relatively easy to obtain work permits after finishing courses.

The government intends to address "a very generous" program for postgraduate work permits and to crack down on "fly-by-night" universities, called designated learning institutes, he said.

The government already plans curbs to the number of off-campus work hours for international students, which the food service and retail industries fear could cause labor shortages.

"One Hell Of A Job": Why Vivek Ramaswamy Dropped Out Of Donald Trump's Praise US Presidential Race And Endorsed Trump

I

HiIndia Newsdesk

ndian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy has dropped out of the 2024 presidential race after a fourth-place finish in the Republican Iowa caucuses, widely considered an indicator of the road ahead.

"There is no path for me to be the next president," said the biotech entrepreneur, announcing his support for former president Donald Trump, whose landslide victory in the Iowa caucus re-established him as the Republican frontrunner.

The Iowa caucus, the first vote in the US presidential race, is a major election test for candidates. Vivek Ramaswamy failed to make a mark as he finished last, after the twiceimpeached former president as well as rivals Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley.

"I looked at every which way, and I think it's true that we did not achieve the surprise that we wanted to deliver tonight... As of this moment, we are going to suspend this presidential campaign," he told reporters in Iowa as the results of the caucus came in.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Ramaswamy, 38, said while he "did not achieve the goal tonight", he will do everything to make sure Trump is the

"We did not achieve the surprise we wanted to deliver tonight," the Indian-American candidate said at press conference

next US president.

"This entire campaign is about speaking the TRUTH. We did not achieve our goal tonight, & we need an America-First patriot in the White House. The people spoke loud & clear about who they want. Tonight I am suspending my campaign and endorsing Donald J. Trump and will do everything I can to make sure he is the next U.S. President," he wrote.

Throughout his self-funded campaign, Ramaswamy had been one of Trump's staunchest defenders and even vowed to pardon Trump of all charges he had been indicted with on his first day in office. He appeared alongside the former president at his rally in New Hampshire as the two shook hands and waved to crowds. "Not going to hold back, now through the finish line," Ramaswamy said in a post on X, sharing a video of the two on stage.

While initially his campaign stated that they were still "digesting" the Iowa results, the entrepreneur took to social media to reassure his supporters that this was not the "end of the road".

"Don't despair, this isn't the end of the road. It's the beginning of a new one.

We have a country to save and we will do it together," he wrote in another post.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Washington: Donald Trump scripted a landslide victory in the Iowa caucuses, cementing his status as the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, a contest that also saw Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy suspending his bid and backing the former US president.

Iowa is the first of the state-by-state contests where Republican Party voters pick their candidate who will almost certainly face Joe Biden, a Democrat, in the November 5 presidential election.

Trump, 77, won the Iowa caucuses in a landslide with Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida securing a critical but distant second-place finish in the contest that took place amidst blistering cold. Trump won the Iowa Republican caucuses by winning 51 per cent of the votes, an unprecedented margin, kickstarting his bid to win his party's third consecutive presidential nomination.

12

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

SPORT

Sachin Tendulkar raises concern over ‘deep fake’ after video of him goes viral promoting online game HiIndia Newsdesk

New Delhi: (IANS) Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar called out a fake video going viral on social media showcasing him endorsing an online game in which his daughter Sara Tendulkar supposedly earned a hefty sum.

In the edited video, Tendulkar is seen promoting an online game, giving the example of daughter Sara earning Rs 1.8 lakh per day by making predictions in the game.

Disturbed by the rampant misuse of technology, Tendulkar took to his social media platform ‘X’ to set the record straight. In a heartfelt post, the cricketing legend expressed his concern over the prevalence of deepfake technology and urged the public to be vigilant against such deceptive practices.

"These videos are fake. It is disturbing to see rampant misuse of technology.

Request everyone to report videos, ads & apps like these in large numbers.

BCCI Seeks Applicants for Senior Men's Selection Committee

HiIndia Newsdesk

In the edited video, Tendulkar is seen promoting an online game, giving the example of daughter Sara earning Rs 1.8 lakh per day by making predictions in the game.

Social Media platforms need to be alert and responsive to complaints.

Swift action from their end is crucial to

stopping the spread of misinformation and deepfakes," Tendulkar asserted, highlighting the urgency of addressing

In-Form Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shivam Dube "Farak Nahi Padta...": Set For Bumper Reward From BCCI: Report Mohammed Shami's Shivam Dube and Yashasvi Jaiswal have emerged as two of the most promising young stars in the Indian team for the T20 World Cup 2024.

HiIndia Newsdesk

more and polish his secondary skills as he continues to impress with his powerhitting in the middle-order.

"The selectors and the team management want him to bowl more and more, as that adds immense value to Dube as a player. This is why he is bowling a fair bit during this series. If he can chip in with a few overs with the ball, he can cement his place in the side for the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA. This is crucial because he is the ideal backup to the injury-prone Hardik Pandya," a reliable source in the BCCI told.

New Delhi, Jan 15 (IANS) The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has invited applications for a position in the senior men’s national selection committee. Interestingly, there is no specific mention over who the selected candidate will replace in the current five-man selection committee currently headed by Ajit Agarkar.

Jaiswal and Dube have impressed the Indian team management enough to earn their spots in the central contracts.

While Jaiswal is becoming a reliable opening batter across formats for the Indian team, Dube is being seen as the perfect backup to the injury-prone Hardik Pandya.

But, the selectors want Dube to bowl

Carlos Alcarez Dominates On Return To Australian Open

Don't Make Olympic Qualification Primary Goal, Focus On Process: Gopichand

HiIndia Newsdesk

Carlos Alcaraz and Iga Swiatek powered into the second round of the Australian Op en on Tues day as G ermany's Alexander Zverev put aside legal worries at home to progress. World number two Alcaraz was electric under the lights on Rod Laver Arena, demolishing French veteran Richard Gasquet 7-6 (7/5), 6-1, 6-2 in his first competitive match of the year. The Spaniard, gunning to unseat 10-time champion Novak Djokovic from the world number one spot, was tested in a tight first set but then moved through the gears, showcasing his full range of shot-making.

this growing threat.

The cricketing icon didn't stop at merely dispelling the false claims. He reached out to the Ministry of Electronics & IT, Rajeev Chandrasekhar, the Union Minister of State, and Maharashtra Cyber Crime, alerting them to the dangers posed by the unchecked spread of deepfake content.

In response, Chandrasekhar pledged to implement tighter rules under the IT Act to ensure compliance by social media platforms. The commitment to combating the misuse of technology resonated not only with Tendulkar's plea but also with the growing concerns globally regarding the nefarious implications of deepfake technology.

This incident comes on the heels of Bollywood actor Rashmika Mandhana facing a similar fate. However, Delhi Police swiftly took action against the accused who shared the fake video of the actor, underscoring the importance of a proactive response to such incidents.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Chief national badminton coach Pullela Gopichand on Tuesday advised Indian players to not to obsess over Paris Olympic qualification, urging them to focus on the process without taking "unnecessary pressure".

Paris berths will be sealed on April 28 when the Olympic qualification rankings are out with singles players inside the top 16 making the cut.

"I think Olympics is still a long way.

There are still about eight tournaments to play. I don't think it's right to go after that as a player," Gopichand told reporters. "I think it's too much pressure unnecessarily to start thinking about the race to Paris as a primary role.

"I think it's important to stick to the process, I think the points, the rankings, and the qualification will take care of itself. That's how I would want the players to look at it.

"Because everybody is asking the same question. Everyone's saying the big one is Paris. I think if you do the right things every day, Paris will come and we won't have a problem."

Men's doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankiredddy and Chirag Shetty and singles ace HS Prannoy are almost assured of a Paris berth.

Lakshya Sen and Kidambi Srikanth are also fighting for the second spot in men's singles.

Blunt Verdict On Hardik Pandya

HiIndia Newsdesk

In an interview, Mohammed Shami was asked about the whole 'chapter' with Hardik Pandya no longer the GT captain.

“Kisike jane se kisiko farak nahi padta (See, it doesn't matter who is leaving). You have to see the team's balance. Hardik was there, he captained us well. He took us to the final in both editions and we won once. But Gujarat hadn't signed Hardik for a lifetime. It's his decision to stay or leave. Shubman is made captain now, he will also gain experience. Some day, he might also leave. And it's a part of the game.

Players come and go,” Shami told News24.

“When you become captain, it's important to handle the responsibility while taking care of your performances. And that responsibility has been assigned to Shubman this time. He might have some load in his mind, but the players are more or less the same.

So he doesn't need to worry. You need to manage players well and extract the best out of your players,” he added. The franchise won their maiden title in 2021 and the next year, they finished runners-up after losing to Chennai Super Kings in the final. However, Pandya completed a shocking trade to MI - his former team - ahead of the new season and India fast bowler Mohammed Shami had a clear verdict on the incident.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

13

773.526.8353

BUSINESS

overtakes India taking tough stand against countries Apple Samsung as world's imposing non-tariff barriers on exports: Goyal biggest phonemaker HiIndia Newsdesk

New Delhi: (IANS) India is taking a tough stand on unfair non-tariff barriers being imposed on its exports by other countries and will take similar steps to counter these anti-trade measures on a reciprocal basis, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Tuesday. He asked India Inc to share a list of such anti-trade measures so that India can flag them with the respective nations. Non-tariff barriers to trade are restrictive practices which create impediments in smooth flow of imports and exports. Many of India's exports suffer due to such unfair trade practices such as cumbersome prior registration requirements, excuses made on high pesticide levels, and unreasonable

Uber applies brakes on its alcohol delivery service called Drizly

HiIndia Newsdesk

San Francisco: (IANS) Ride-hailing major Uber is shutting down its alcohol delivery service called Drizly which it acquired for $1.1 billion.

The company had planned to integrate Drizly into Uber Eats but never succeeded.

Drizly brand will be discontinued by March, reports Axios.

"After three years of Drizly operating independently within the Uber family, we’ve decided to close the business and focus on our core Uber Eats strategy of helping consumers get almost anything – from food to groceries to alcohol – all on a single app," an Uber spokesperson said in a statement.

Fitch affirms India's BBB- rating with stable outlook

HiIndia Newsdesk

New Delhi: (IANS) Fitch Ratings on Tuesday affirmed India's Long-Term Foreign-Currency Issuer Default Rating (IDR) at 'BBB-' with a stable outlook.

The ratings agency said: "India is poised to remain one of the fastest-growing countries globally in the next few years."

It also said that beyond 2023-24, there is "less certainty on the fiscal path and trade-offs between economic growth and consolidation may become more acute" for the country.

HiIndia Newsdesk

domestic rules in many countries.

The minister was of the view any unfair treatment to Indian goods will have to

be met with reciprocal action as several of these countries seek access to the vast Indian market.

World’s richest 5 would take 476 years to go broke if they spend $1 mn daily: Report

HiIndia Newsdesk

eradicated for another 229 years, the New Delhi: (IANS) It would take 476 years for the world's top five richest report noted. men to exhaust all their money if they "This inequality is no accident; the billionaire class is ensuring corporations decided to spend $1 million per day, a new report has said. Tech billionaires deliver more wealth to them at the expense of everyone else," said Oxfam like Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg and Jeff Bezos, all feature in the top five list. International interim Executive Director, According to the UK-based charitable Amitabh Behar. organisation Oxfam, the world’s five Billionaires are now $3.3 trillion or 34 per cent richer than in 2020, with their richest men have more than doubled wealth growing three times as fast as the their wealth from $405 billion to $869 billion since 2020 -- at a rate of $14 rate of inflation. million per hour -- while nearly five The report also mentioned that men billion people have been made poorer. own $105 trillion more wealth than If the present trends continue, the women globally -- the difference in world will see its first trillionaire in less wealth is equivalent to more than four than ten years, but poverty won’t be times the size of the US economy.

Google to lay off ‘a few hundreds’ employees from ad sales team of changes to how Google's sales team operated”, reports Business Insider.

A Google spokesperson also confirmed that “a few hundred roles globally are being eliminated” as part of the restructuring.

The layoffs will primarily affect Google’s Large Customer Sales (LCS) unit, a team that sells ads to large businesses.

The Google Customer Solutions team HiIndia Newsdesk San Francisco: (IANS) After laying (GCS), which sells ads to smaller clients, off nearly 1,000 employees last week, will now become the “core” ad sales Google is reportedly slashing “a few team. Google laid off some employees on its LCS team in October last year. hundred” more jobs in its advertising sales team as part of an ongoing “Every year we go through a rigorous process to structure our team to provide restructuring exercise. the best service to our Ads customers,” Philipp Schindler, Google's chief a company spokesperson was quoted business officer, told staff in a memo as saying. that the fresh job cuts “were the result

Apple now has the lion's share of the global smartphone market, knocking Samsung off the top spot for the first time in 12 years.

The American phone giant accounted for more than a fifth of phones shipped last year, according to data from the International Data Corporation (IDC).

Samsung took 19.4% of the market share with Chinese phonemakers Xiaomi, OPPO and Transsion following behind.

Smartphone sales have been faltering as many people upgraded in the pandemic.

Mortgage rate cuts continue despite economic fears

HiIndia Newsdesk

Mortgage rates are continuing to fall despite some concern that upheaval in the Red Sea could hit the UK economy.

The average rate on a two-year fixed deal has dropped to 5.62% compared with 5.93% at the start of the year, according to financial information service Moneyfacts.

HSBC and NatWest cut some rates on Tuesday, with Metro Bank and TSB also announcing reductions.

AI to hit 40% of jobs and worsen inequality, IMF says

HiIndia Newsdesk

Artificial intelligence is set to affect nearly 40% of all jobs, according to a new analysis by the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

IMF's managing director Kristalina Georgieva says "in most scenarios, AI will likely worsen overall inequality". Ms Georgieva adds that policymakers should address the "troubling trend" to "prevent the technology from further stoking social tensions". The proliferation of AI has put its benefits and risks under the spotlight.

14

Sensex sinks more than 1,000 points

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

TOP STORIES OF THE WEEK

BJP only Indian party with proven track record of speedy development: PM Modi HiIndia Newsdesk

HiIndia Newsdesk

New Delhi, Jan 17 (IANS) BSE Sensex plunged more than 1,000 points on Wednesday led by losses in HDFC Bank. Sensex is down 1,044 points at 72,084 points. HDFC Bank plunged 6 per cent after its results and several bank stocks are also down. Kotak Mahindra is down more than 2 per cent, Tata Steel is down 2 per cent, ICICI Bank is down 2 per cent.

Pak Warns Of "Serious Consequences" After Iran Attacks Balochi Bases

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that the BJP was the only party in India with a proven track record of speedy development and a clear vision for the future.

The prime minister was speaking at a party meeting of around 6,000 in-charges of 'Shakti Kendras', each comprising two to three booth-level areas, at Marine Drive here.

Speaking at the event, he highlighted the diverse initiatives implemented by his government to enhance the well-being of citizens.

He said according to a recent report, in the last nine years around 25 crore people have been pulled out of poverty in India.

"This indicates that the direction that

R Praggnanandhaa Overtakes V Anand

The PM said according to a recent report, in the last nine years around 25 crore people have been pulled out of poverty in India we have taken for a developed nation is the correct one," the prime minister contended.

'India has world's fourth strongest military, US most powerful'

HiIndia Newsdesk

Islamabad, Pakistan: Two bases of Balochi militant group Jaish al Adl in Pakistan were targeted by missiles on Tuesday, Iranian state media reported, a day after Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards attacked targets in Iraq and Syria with missiles.

The militant group has previously mounted attacks on Iranian security forces in the border area with Pakistan.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

HiIndia Newsdesk

New Delhi, Jan 17 (IANS) India has the fourth strongest military globally while the US has the most powerful followed

by Russia and China, according to the Global Firepower's recently released Military Strength Rankings for 2024.

The rankings put Pakistan at number nine while Bhutan has the least powerful military in the world.

The Global Firepower keeps track of defence-related information of 145 different countries.

While ranking the military powers of these countries, it takes into account around 60 factors, including the number of troops, military equipment, financial stability, geographic location, and available resources. These factors together determine a PowerIndex score, where lower scores indicate stronger military capabilities.

The Global Firepower military strength report also examines how each nation's ranking has changed from one year to the next. The rankings placed South Korea at number five, the UK at number six, and Japan at number seven.

"He's Gonna Be Working With Us For A Long Time": Trump On Ramaswamy

"The BJP is the only party in India with a proven track record of speedy development and clear vision for the future," he added.

The prime minister also urged party workers to convey to people that the track record of the LDF and UDF in Kerala was synonymous with a history of corruption.

Modi also referred to the welcome he received on Tuesday on his arrival in the state and said that he was overawed by the love and affection the people of Kerala have shown to him.

He said that people blessed him on his arrival at Kochi on Tuesday and also on the route to the Triprayar Sree Ramaswamy Temple this morning.

The prime minister was on a two-day visit to Kerala and would return to Delhi later in the evening.

US military hits four Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles

HiIndia Newsdesk

The US military on Tuesday carried out a new strike in Yemen against four Houthi anti-ship ballistic missiles, two US officials told Reuters, the latest move against the Iran-aligned group over its targeting of Red Sea shipping.

One of the officials said the missiles were struck because they were being prepared to target ships in the region.

China Scrambles To Boost Birth Rates As Population Drops For 2nd Year

HiIndia Newsdesk HiIndia Newsdesk

For the first time in his career, Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa has become India's top-ranked men's chess player, going past veteran Viswanathan Anand.

Praggnanandhaa achieved the milestone after beating China's Ding Liren, the current world champion, in the 4th round of the Tata Steel Masters tournament on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Dutchman Anish Giri emerge as the sole leader heading into the first rest day, as far as the Masters Group is concerned.

Gautam Adani, chairman of the Adani Group, also lauded Praggnanandhaa on becoming the new no.1 Indian chess player.

HiIndia Newsdesk Vivek Ramaswamy had straightaway New Hampshire: A day after the Iowa caucuses endorsed Trump and result, former President Donald Trump, who registered a big win, held a rally in Atkinson, New urged Republican Hampshire on Tuesday (local time) with fellow voters to put an GOP leader Vivek Ramaswamy and thanked the "America First patriot" Indian-American leader for endorsing him. in the White House. Notably, while Trump solidified his position as

Republican presidential candidate in his bid to return to the White House, Ramaswamy pulled out of the race after finishing a distant fourth in Iowa.After dropping out of the race on Monday (local time), Ramaswamy had straightaway endorsed Trump and urged Republican voters to put an "America First patriot" in the White House.

On similar lines, Ramaswamy again endorsed Trump at the Atkinson rally stating that there is not a "better choice" than him and urged people to do the "right thing".

"There is not a better choice left in this race than this man right here. And that is why I am asking you to do the right thing as New Hampshire and to vote for Donald Trump as your next president," Ramaswamy said in his address.

Beijing: China's population decline accelerated in 2023, official data showed Wednesday, extending a downward streak after more than six decades of growth as the country battles a looming demographic crisis.

Once the world's most populous country, China was overtaken by India last year, with Beijing now scrambling to boost falling birth rates through subsidies and pro-fertility propaganda.

"By the end of 2023, the national population was 1,409.67 million... a decrease of 2.08 million over that at the end of 2022," Beijing's National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said Wednesday.

Last year's decline was more than double the fall reported for 2022, when the country lost 850,000 people as its population shrank for the first time since 1960.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

CURRENT AFFAIRS

15

Lakshadweep: Can India's 'alternative Maldives' handle mass tourism?

arise from controversial measures implemented by Patel, a former leader of Modi's party, including removing meat from school meals and a draft law granting sweeping land takeover powers. Prospective tourist inquiries have risen by 30-40%, according to Althaf Hussain, a local travel agency owner. However, he emphasizes the importance of opportunities for local entrepreneurs, hoping for ownership in projects rather than mere labor contribution. Experts stress the necessity of balancing livelihood concerns with climate change impacts, emphasizing the ecological integrity of coral reefs, lagoons, and beaches

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Indian archipelago Lakshadweep triggered an unexpected row that soured ties with neighbouring Maldives. It also set off a surge in tourist interest in the small island chain that has worried ecological experts and many locals.

I

ndian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Lakshadweep, a federally administered territory in the Arabian Sea, has sparked increased interest in the region. Mr. Modi announced development projects and shared leisurely photos, but three Maldivian deputy ministers' derogatory comments fueled outrage on Indian social media, redirecting attention to Lakshadweep as an alternative tourist destination.

The surge in interest is evident in the record-high Google searches and a 3,400% increase in MakeMyTrip searches for Lakshadweep postModi's visit. Praful Patel, the region's administrator, welcomed the attention, citing the immense potential for tourism development.

The Tata Group plans to open two resorts by 2026, and additional flights are being introduced.

Despite these developments, experts caution against massive tourism expansion, emphasizing Lakshadweep's small size and fragile ecology. Locals advocate for responsible tourism, expressing concerns about potential disruptions to their traditional way of life, mainly

Lakshadweep's lone MP, Mohammed Faizal, says the islands is not equipped for largescale tourism

centered around fishing, coconut cultivation, and coir twisting.

Transport and accommodation limitations, along with infrastructure challenges, hinder the islands' development. Entry is restricted by permits, and Bangaram, where Modi stayed, has only 36 rooms for tourists.

Current tourism operates mainly

through cruises, while the Maldives offers a plethora of stay options, including resorts and hotels.

PP Mohammed Faizal, the region's sole MP, highlights the need to settle differences between the administration and islanders for effective development. Tensions

as Lakshadweep's vital 'ecological infrastructure.' Recent decades have seen catastrophic heatwaves linked to the El Niño Southern Oscillation, affecting coral reef health in the region. Development plans must carefully navigate these challenges to ensure sustainable growth in Lakshadweep.

P M Modi releases commemorative This Place In Tamil Nadu Is postage stamps on Ram temple Freezing At Near Zero Degrees The six stamps are on the Ram temple, Lord Ganesh, Lord Hanuman, Jatayu, Kevatraj and Ma Shabri

HiIndia Newsdesk

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday released commemorative postage stamps on the Ram temple in Ayodhya and a book of stamps issued on Lord Ram around the world.

Officials said the components of the design include the Ram temple, the chaupai 'Mangal Bhavan Amangal Hari', Sun, Saryu river and sculptures in and around the temple.

The six stamps are on the Ram temple, Lord Ganesh, Lord Hanuman, Jatayu, Kevatraj and Ma Shabri, they said.

The stamp book is an attempt to showcase the international appeal of Lord Ram and the 48-page book covers stamps issued by more than of 20 countries, including the US, New Zealand, Singapore, Canada, Cambodia, and organisations like the UN. A gold leaf of sun rays and 'chaupai' lend a majestic icon to this miniature sheet, they noted, adding that the five physical elements, sky, air, fire, earth and water, are reflected through various design elements and establish their perfect harmony which is essential for all manifestations.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Nilgiris, Tamil Nadu: Plummeting temperature in this hill district has left people grappling with biting cold in what seems to be an unseasonal climatic phenomenon that has also affected farming.

The lush green lawns are covered with frost and dense fog has affected visibility, as locals struggle with health issues due to the dipping temperatures.

Such cold, dry spell is unusual, locals said. In many places, people were seen trying to keep themselves warm by sitting around bonfire.

According to official data available, temperature was recorded at 1 degree celcius at Kanthal and Thalaikuntha in Udhagamandalam while the mercury

According to official data available, temperature was recorded at 1 degree celcius at Kanthal and Thalaikuntha in Udhagamandalam while the mercury was a notch higher at 2 degree celcius in Botanical Garden. Sandynallah was at 3 degree celcius. was a notch higher at 2 degree celcius in Botanical Garden. Sandynallah was at 3 degree celcius. Residents and environmental activists are worried over the relatively 'unseasonal' cold that has gripped the mountains.

V Sivadas of the Nilagiri Enviroment Social Trust (NEST) believes the change is due to global warming and El-nino effect. "The onset of the cold is delayed and such a climatic change is a big challenge to the Nilgiris and study should be conducted about this," he said.

The tea plantation, taken up on a large scale here, also faces challenges. Heavy rains in December and the subsequent cold period now has affected tea plantation, R Sukumaran, secretary of a local tea workers union said.

16

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

773.526.8353

ENTERTA

There is no competition

Suniel Shetty to join Madhuri Dixit Nene as a judge on 'Dance Deewane'

OTT vs theatre debate

Raveena Tandon

Actor Raveena Tandon feels that OTT as well. 'Karmma Calling' marks there are no dividing lines between her second web show after 'Aranyak'. theatres and OTT spaces currently The upcoming show is the Indian and said that both of them can adaptation of the ABC series 'Revenge'. co-exist. Speaking to ANI, In the series, Raveena plays the role of Raveena, who is all set to come Indrani Kothari, the reigning queen of up with the show 'Karmma society in Alibaug, a rich world of glitz, Calling' on a digital platform, glamour, deceit and betrayal. Ruchi said, "OTT and theatre co- Narain has directed it. On what fans can exist. There's no competition expect from the show, Raveena shared, between the two mediums. "This is an official adaptation of the Some films are meant to be American TV show 'Revenge'. But this watched on the big screen...the show is so involved with our religion. same magic and fun you won't Surprisingly, this was first made in the experience while watching US. It was not easy stepping into the them on OTT. For instance, the shoes of Indrani Kothari. The character cinematic experience of 'KGF' was extremely opposite to my real-life was something else but yes, I personality but I had fun working on agree that the viewership of the show."

'KGF' increased with its release 'Karmma Calling' will stream on January on OTT. Both mediums go 26, 2024 on Disney+ Hotstar. Varun hand-in-hand."

Sood and Namrata Sheth are also part In the battle between OTT of the show. platforms and traditional movie theatres, both sides have their merits and demerits. OTT platforms provide convenience, variety, and cost-effective options, while theatres offer a unique cinematic experience, exclusivity, and the magic of the big screen. After enthralling fans with her stint on the big screen for decades, Raveena has now found a strong foothold on

HiIndia Newsdesk

Actor Suniel Shetty will be joining forces with actress Madhuri Dixit Nene, in the upcoming season of dance-based reality show 'Dance Deewane'. This season is set to elevate the entertainment quotient, uniting three generations of phenomenal dancers. Renowned for his diverse journey in the film industry, marked by unparalleled versatility, Suniel is all set to play a pivotal role in identifying the next generation of dance superstars.Taking their seats on the coveted judges' panel, Suniel and Madhuri are ready to share their invaluable insights, offer constructive critiques, and infuse the show with their infectious energy, all in the quest to unearth the nation's next dancing sensation.

'Dance Deewane' will air on Colors.

Vipul Shah, Sudipto Sen, Adah reunite for 'Bastar

HiIndia Newsdesk

'The Kerala Story' trio of actress Adah Sharma, director Sudipto Sen and director-producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah are reuniting for the upcoming film 'Bastar: The Naxal Story'.The makers of the film unveiled three posters of the film which paint a grim picture.

The first poster features Adah essaying the character of I.G. Neerja Madhvan.

It shows her on the battlefield from the film as she brandishes a gun along with others. The second poster has a few men hung up on a road, and the third has the antagonist staring into the camera as the fire behind him rages.

Talking about the film, director Sudipto Sen said: "After ‘The Kerala Story’ unprecedented love and blessing -- we gathered the courage to bring out another deadly secret of independent India. It is from Bastar right at the heart of our country. The outrageous, heinous, and abominable truth which will shock you at the core of your existence. We strongly believe that we will get similar blessings and support you showered on us.”

Vipul Amrutlal Shah said that with ‘Bastar: The Naxal Story’ the journey to expose uncomfortable truths continues.

Sayli Salunkhe: It's difficult to cut off from a character

T

elevision actress Sayli Salunkhe, who plays the role of Vandana in the show 'Baatein Kuch Ankahee Si', shared that it is difficult for her to cut off from a character that she plays 15 hrs a day.

Talking about cutting off from her character once she is out of the set, Sayli said: "It's difficult to cut off. If you are playing that character for 15 hours then it's difficult to cut off. Even if I take my character home then I don't have any problem as Vandana is a very sweet and innocent girl and I think that Sayali has been able to control her anger because of Vandana."

She shared that Vandana's character has had a positive impact in her life and she has always tried to learn from her character. "I feel good to learn from her and live with her."

The actress further said that she was quite apprehensive about the show initially. "At first, I was scared whether people would be able to connect or not.

But I am receiving some great responses.

The best thing that people tell me is that they could relate to Vandana. If I am playing Vandana and people can relate to it and her journey and her responsibilities at the age of 35 being married, the pressure of the society is what people could relate to. I am really happy that people are loving my work. " In i t i a l l y it w a s v e r y difficult to catch this character as Vandana is a 35-year-old girl. Vandana has suffered a lot after her mother passed away, and she has taken over all the responsibilities.

When I started playing Vandana, I could relate to her emotions. Whatever Vandana and Sayli think, their emotions are very similar," she said.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

17

773.526.8353

AINMENT

It was a dream for me to be a hero Tahir Raj Bhasin

Mu mb ai : For film or a series on my shoulders. actor Tahir Raj “I’m truly grateful to director Siddharth Bhasin, his hit Sen Gupta and the entire team of Yeh Kaali series ‘Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein for seeing the fire in me K a a l i A n k h e i n’ and for trusting me to be a front-footed made him realise his hero.” He added: “Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein dream of playing enabled me to entertain people as the the quintessential quintessential hero who could romance, Hindi film hero who could step up and fight when needed on screen. and also be the person who triggered all He s aid: “As major plot points!” someone who “For someone who has idolised the silver doesn’t have any screen heroes, this was a moment that is connection in still indescribable for me. I’m indebted to the industry, it this project and the perception it created was a dream for me with its resounding success.” for me to be The actor further said that having a hit a hero in a film or a series is always a big plus because project and destinies are written and rewritten with headline a every release.

Rasha Pracchand Ashok: Thadani becomes brand Rakshanda Khan and Chetan face of Silvostyle by PNG Hansraj come together

Rasha Thadani embodies the very essence of Silvostyle, inheriting not just charm and poise but also a deep appreciation for its unique jewellery. She, who already enjoys a strong fan base on social media, especially amongst GenZ is one of the most anticipated debutantes this year!

The trailer of Colors’ magnum opus ‘Pracchand Ashok’ released with much fanfare and it doesn’t come as a surprise that the show is expected to feature an ensemble cast of season actors. With Adnan Khan of Katha Ankahee fame playing the lead role of Samrat Ashok, the show is expected to delve deeper into his love saga with Princess Kaurwaki, essayed by Mallika Singh.

I'm the kind of artiste who often ignores sensible advice

Aditi Saigal

Indie musician and actress Aditi Saigal also known as Dot, is the most engaged Gen Z actor-artiste of the country, and she has shared how the social media has always been kind to her, calling herself an artist who often ignores "sensible advice".

With a staggering engagement rate of 24-26 per cent on her posts, Dot, who shot to fame with her acting as well as musical talent, in Zoya Akhtar's directorial 'The Archies', has emerged as a breakthrough artiste of the year.

S h e c o mp o s e s , sings and writes the lyrics of all her songs. Dot has been topping the Indian music charts with her 'Archies' songs too. She has written and sang all four 'Dear Diary' themes picturised on Khushi Kapoor, as wel l as lent her voice to the character of Betty (Khushi), singing and composing t h e s o n g 'Asymmetrical'.

She has also sung t he ot her two chartbusters 'Dhishoom Dhisho om' and 'Sunoh'.

Shark Tank India 3' Spotlights India's Rajniesh Duggall makes his international debut Cybersecurity Evolution with 'AI Kavach' with 'Postcards'

HiIndia Newsdesk

Mumbai,: (IANS) The upcoming season of business reality show 'Shark Tank India' will promise an extraordinary journey into the cybersecurity realm with 'AI Kavach', a venture poised to redefine digital defence. Pratyusha Vemuri, Founder and CEO of 'AI Kavach' steps onto the electrifying stage of 'Shark Tank India 3', seeking Rs 50 lakh for just 1.25 per cent equity. She unveils a visionary path marked by innovation and resilience. The air gets charged with excitement as she pitches her patented solution, capturing the attention of

Sharks Aman Gupta and Peyush Bansal, while Vineeta Singh and Radhika Gupta commend her entrepreneurial spirit.

Following this groundbreaking breakthrough, cyber fraud takes center stage in discussions. Talking about her experience on the show, Pratyusha says: "AI Kavach, the guardian of digital trust in an age of deep-tech innovation, stands as a testament to the transformational power of 'Shark Tank India 3'. Just as the Sharks dive deep to unearth hidden gems, AI Kavach dives into the heart of fraud prevention, rewriting the rules of digital trust."

Actor Rajniesh Duggall, known for his commendable performances has captivated audiences with his remarkable acting skills. His dedication and talent have earned him accolades, making him a sought-after actor in the industry.

Now, breaking new ground, Duggall has ventured into the international scene, becoming part of a prestigious global project. The announcement of his being part of an international project has sparked anticipation among his fans, who eagerly await the international debut! Rajniesh shared, "Last November, I received a sudden call about an international project, an Indo-Nigerian collaboration. They asked for a tape and I sent it, and the next thing I knew I was in narration with them. What I really loved was the fact that this project is a slice-oflife drama.

Huma Qureshi Ascends with Wisdom in 'Maharani 3'

The makers of Huma Qureshi-starrer political series 'Maharani' on Tuesday unveiled the teaser of the season three, and it features the return of 'Rani Bharti' with a powerful narrative wielding the weapon of education.

The one minute seven seconds teaser features Huma's character Rani Bharti clearing the intermediate examinations.

She gets sweets distributed in the prison.

In the teaser, Rani is saying, "Even as a school dropout, I gave all of you a tough time. Once I graduate, what will happen to all of you?" The show stars Huma as Rani, wife of Bihar's Chief Minister Bheema Bharti (played by Sohum Shah) character.

Vidya Balan, Pratik Gandhi tease fan

Mumbai: (IANS) Bollywood stars Vidya Balan and Pratik Gandhi have shared a cryptic post on the social media about an upcoming project, leaving the fans buzzing with excitement and speculation.

Vidya and Pratik took to their respective social media handles, and shared an image which seems to be a mathematical equation, with the sum of two and two equating to a heart.

The post has a simple yet intriguing caption: "Do aur do milenge. Pyaar ke raaz khulenge! Tomorrow at 11 am, wait for it!"The anticipation is palpable as fans speculate about the possible announcement set to be unveiled on January 17.

'Hustlers-Jugad Ka Khel' highlights intricacies of start-up boom

On the occasion of 'National Start-up Day', the makers have announced an entrepreneurial drama titled 'HustlersJugad Ka Khel', unveiling a riveting teaser of the show. The show will highlight the intricacies of the startup boom witnessed in the city that never sleeps, Mumbai, focusing on the lives of entrepreneurs. 'Hustlers' will feature Vishal Vashishtha, Anjali Barot, Maharshi Dave, Anurag Arora, and Samir Kochhar in pivotal roles.

18

Wind-whipped snow sweeps Chicago area

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

TOP STORIES OF THE WEEK

Congress Chief Mallikarjun Kharge To Lead Opposition Bloc INDIA HiIndia Newsdesk

HiIndia Newsdesk

Chicago, Jan 13 (IANS) Windwhipped snow blanketed Chicago, leaving thousands without power and cancellation of nearly 1,000 flights. As of Friday night, the western and southwestern suburbs of Chicago, the third most populous city in the US, had received 4 to 7 inches of snow, reports Xinhua news agency.

Northern areas closer to Chicago had received 2 to 3.5 inches.

With as much as 2 inches of snow falling per hour on Friday and winds up to 35 miles per hour (mph), up to 4 to 7 inches of snow could pile up on the ground, the Chicago Tribune reported, citing the National Weather Service (NWS). It is expected to be the most severe storm so far this season.Snow will lash the Chicago until Saturday morning, the NWS predicted.

Gusts could reach up to 45 mph, with almost zero visibility.

There were 2,268 power outages reported across the city, affecting more than 96,000 customers, according to ComEd's outage map.

The Federal Aviation Administration issued ground stops for Chicago O'Hare International Airport on Friday because of the weather.

UK's sacked Home Secretary warns voting against Rwanda Bill

HiIndia Newsdesk

London, Jan 13 (IANS) With the Rwanda asylum bill set to return to the UK Parliament next week, sacked Home Secretary Suella Braverman said she will vote against the legislation if there were “no improvements” in it.

One of the toughest immigration legislation ever introduced to Parliament, the bill which aims to deport asylum seekers arriving in the UK to Rwanda, will face its third reading vote after MPs debate and vote on amendments to it on January 16-17. “I’m only going to support a bill that works. As currently drafted, this bill does not work. And if there are no improvements to it, I will have to vote against it, I’m afraid,"

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

New Delhi: After intense deliberations, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge has been chosen for the chairperson of opposition bloc INDIA, sources said.

INDIA bloc is yet to make an official announcement. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar was another contender for the top post, but in today's meeting he said that someone from Congress should assume charge.

However, choosing a chairperson is only one facet of the many challenges faced by the INDIA bloc. They still have to tackle the issue of seat-sharing between all the parties.

I N DIA or ' Ind i an Nat i ona l Developmental Inclusive Alliance' is a

The opposition alliance though is yet to come up with a seat-sharing plan for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. group of opposition parties, including the Congress. The parties have come

together to take on the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), which is led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and prevent it from winning a third straight term at the Centre in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.In Uttar Pradesh, the Samajwadi Party is not expected to be in a forgiving mood given the state Congress's refusal to share any seats in the assembly elections. State party chief Kamal Nath had refused to honour the central leadership's commitment for six seats in the state. The ripples were very public. Akhilesh Yadav's swipes at the Congress were followed by the party's crushing defeat in the three heartland states and the sacking of Kamal Nath from the top post.

4th Summons To India Most Stable Country Now: US-India Arvind Kejriwal Partnership Forum Head Mukesh Aghi "For the first time, India is coming as the most stable country from a political risk perspective," Mukesh Aghi said.

HiIndia Newsdesk

New Delhi: Confidence in India's leadership has grown in recent years and the country is being hailed as the most stable country from a political risk perspective, says the chief of the USIndia Strategic Partnership Forum. In an exclusive conversation with NDTV, Mukesh Aghi speaks extensively about the changing dynamics of global politics and how the United States now is considered a country with significant political risk.

"Well, we should talk about country risk analysis, especially political risk, and India used to always come up there as a political risk country," says Mr Aghi, emphasising the historical perception of India's political landscape.

"For the first time, I'm saying India is coming as the most stable country from a political risk perspective," he added.

Mr Aghi drew a contrast with the uncertainty prevailing in the United States, stating, "US is the other extreme now. We have no idea what's going to happen in the US. President Trump could come back, or President Biden could be elected, or Nikki Haley could be there."

Describing this as turmoil, he stressed on the volatile nature of the political situation in the United States.

Mr Aghi said that the world is in a state of flux, with nearly 50% of the population set to vote in various countries, ranging from the US and India to Russia, Indonesia, and Pakistan. "I think overall, what we're seeing, the world is in a flux.

Almost 50% of the population is going to vote, all the way from US, India, to Russia, to Indonesia, Pakistan itself. We see a change happening. I think for the first time after the Second World War, what we're seeing is there's a shift in the balance of power," he said. Expressing optimism about India's role in this evolving scenario, Mr Aghi said that countries like India are becoming more assertive and economically robust.

Indian woman Accused of murdering her 4-year-old was a Harvard Fellow

Zofeen Maqsood

The shocking case of a mother killing her own kid has shocked the collective conscience of the society. Adding to the shock of the case is that this lady had a very impressive resume and was a Harvard Fellow.

According to reports, Suchana Seth, who was the CEO of The Mindful AI Lab, an artificial intelligence startup in Bangalore, allegedly stuffed her son’s

body into her luggage after killing him at the Sol Banyan Grande’ in Candolim in North Goa. She asked her hotel in Goa to arrange a taxi drive to her home in Bengaluru. While the hotel suggested alternate ways like flying owing to the 14-hour long car ride time, she insisted on traveling by road. While Seth was still on-way to Bengaluru the hotel staff found blood in the room she rented and a probe was launched. As per her profile, Seth was an AI ethics expert and data scientist studied at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard University, as a fellow from September 2017 to August 2018, and then as an affiliate for a year. Before that she was the Ford – Mozilla Open Web Fellow at the Data & Society Research Institute in New York for five months.

HiIndia Newsdesk

New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been summoned for questioning by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in the Delhi liquor policy case for the fourth time. He has been asked to appear before the probe agency on January 18. This comes after Arvind Kejriwal skipped January 3 questioning, saying that the summons issued by the ED were illegal and its only aim is to arrest him.

Rajiv Shah appointed to the Board of Directors of Federal Reserve Bank of NY

Zofeen Maqsood

Indian American president of the Rockefeller Foundation Dr. Rajiv Shah has been appointed to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York board of directors. Shah has been appointed as a Class C director for a three-year term.

Before joining the Rockefeller Foundation, Shah was the founder and managing partner of Latitude Capital, a private equity firm focused on infrastructure and energy projects in Africa and Asia. Before that, he served as head of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Shah is a graduate of the University of Michigan, the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, and the Wharton School of Business.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

19

773.526.8353

TOP STORIES OF THE WEEK

India's Longest Sea Bridge. What's Allowed And What's Not

Mumbai To Navi Mumbai In 20 Minutes As India's Longest Sea Bridge Opens HiIndia Newsdesk

HiIndia Newsdesk

What's allowed • The maximum speed limit for four-wheelers on the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) will be 100 kmph.

• The maximum speed limit for vehicles like cars, taxis, light motor vehicles, minibuses and two-axle buses is 100 kilometres per hour.

• On the ascent and descent of the bridge, the speed will be restricted to 40 kilometres per hour.

What's not allowed

• The police, on Wednesday, informed that motorbikes, auto rickshaws and tractors won't be allowed on the sea bridge, the police said on Wednesday. There will also be no entry for vehicles like motorcycles, mopeds, threewheelers, animal-drawn vehicles and slow-moving vehicles.

• Multi-axle heavy vehicles, trucks and buses heading towards Mumbai won't have an entry on the Eastern Freeway.

• These vehicles will have to take the Mumbai Port-Sewri Exit (Exit 1C) and use the MBPT Road near 'Gadi Adda' for further movement.

• An official informed that the Mumbai police have imposed the speed limit on India's longest sea bridge to curb "danger, obstructions and inconvenience to the public.”

Ro Khanna says Joe Biden Attacked Yemen without Approval HiIndia Newsdesk

On Thursday the U.S. carried out military strikes in about a dozen of Yemeni targets.

This new strike comes with fears that the tensions may just be escalating in the Middle-East.

While the American-led strikes come in response to Houthi-led drone attacks in the Red Sea against Israeli and Israel-bound ships. Soon after the attack, Indian-American Representative from California, Ro Khanna reacted to the strikes. He said, “The President needs to come to the Congress before launching a strike against the Houthis in Yemen and involving us in another Middle East conflict. That is Article I of the constitution. I will stand up for that regardless of whether a Democrat or Republican is in the White House.”

Mumbai: Adding a 21.8-km feather to the country's infrastructure cap, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link between Sewri in Mumbai and Nhava Sheva in Raigad district on Friday.

The trans harbour link, also known as the Atal Setu, is India's longest sea bridge and will reduce the time taken for the journey between the two points from the current hour and a half to around 20 minutes.

Constructed at a cost of ₹ 17,840 crore, the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL) has six lanes, and 16.5 km of the bridge's length is over the sea.

Officials said that, apart from bringing Mumbai and Navi Mumbai closer, the Atal Setu - named after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee - will help ease traffic and enhance transportation, and also serve as an engine of economic growth. The MTHL will provide faster connectivity to the Mumbai International Airport and the Navi Mumbai International Airport and also reduce travel time from Mumbai to

The 21.8-km Mumbai Trans Harbour Link was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi today.

Pune, Goa and South India. It will boost connectivity between the Mumbai Port and the Jawaharlal Nehru Port.

The Atal Setu is India's first sea bridge to implement an open road tolling system, which will allow vehicles to pass through toll booths at speeds of

up to 100 kilometres per hour without having to stop.

IIT Bombay had been roped in to strengthen the Atal Setu during its construction in 2018, and a team worked to ensure the design was done keeping in mind that it falls under a moderate earthquake damage risk zone. Professor Deepankar Choudhury, Head of Civil Engineering at IIT Bombay, said that the bridge is built to withstand four different types of earthquakes of up to 6.5 magnitude.

Sensex Hits All-Time High Of 72,600, Emotional issues being 'misused' Nifty Surges Over 200 Points politically: Rahul

HiIndia Newsdesk

New Delhi: India's blue-chip indexes, Nifty and Sensex hit fresh all-time highs today, led by gains in IT services firms after their results and commentary exceeded expectations, alleviating concerns about weak demand.

The NSE Nifty 50 added 1.22 per cent to 21,911 points, while the S&P BSE

Sensex climbed 1.31 per cent to 72,661, as of 12.36 pm.

Shares of Tata Consultancy Services climbed 4.3 per cent and Infosys surged 7 per cent, after reporting bigger-thanexpected revenue in the third quarter.

The rise powered the IT index about 5 per cent higher.

Infosys, TCS, Tech Mahindra, Wipro and HCLTech were the top five gainers on the Nifty 50 index, climbing between 3% and 7%.

The US CPI inflation inching up to 3.4 per cent year-on-year is slightly negative from the global equity market perspective, he added.

In Asian markets, Tokyo, Shanghai and Hong Kong were trading higher while Seoul quoted lower. The US markets ended mostly in the green on Thursday.

PM Modi Begins 11-Day Special Ritual For Ayodhya's Ram Temple Event

"overwhelmed with emotions".

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra "As it is said in our scriptures, we have to awaken divine consciousness in Modi on Friday began an 11-day ourselves for the Yagya and worship of special ritual ahead of the consecration God. For this, fasts and strict rules have ceremony or "pran pratishtha" of the been prescribed in the scriptures, which Ram Temple in Ayodhya, which is have to be followed before consecration. scheduled to take place on January 22.

In an emotional message to the nation, Therefore, according to the guidance I have received from some pious souls PM Modi said that the feeling of "Ram and great men of the spiritual journey Bhakti" is immersing the whole country and according to the 'Yama-Niyams' in the run-up to the grand event. suggested by them, I am starting a Calling the moment a "blessing of special ritual of 11 days from today," the almighty", he expressed that he is HiIndia Newsdesk

HiIndia Newsdesk

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Friday said emotional issues are being "misused" politically and attention is being diverted from real issues, in a "betrayal" of the people of the country.

In a post in Hindi on X on National Youth Day, Gandhi stressed the need to remember the thoughts of Swami Vivekananda, who regarded the energy of the youth the basis of a prosperous country and service of those suffering and the poor as the greatest penance.

Nikki Haley failed to engage Indian voters in Iowa HiIndia Newsdesk

Republican Nikki Haley who is vying for Presidency, has failed to reach out to engage with Indian America voters, many in the community feel. With only a week remaining to the Iowa caucuses the South Asian and Indian associations in the state have seen no active engagements from the side of Haley. There are about 20,000 Indian voters in Iowa but Haley has so far failed to speak about her heritage or mention her roots in a way to connect with this group of voters. However, many in the community feel that this may not be new for Indian American candidates in presidential politics.

While the community feels connected to see an Indian-origin, it often disappoints that the candidates do not

20

Jyotiraditya Scindia condemns unruly passenger behavior

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

TOP STORIES OF THE WEEK

Air India Flight Horror: 17-Hour Wait For Delhi-Mumbai Passengers HiIndia Newsdesk

HiIndia Newsdesk

With low-visibility conditions significantly disrupting flight operations at the Delhi airport, Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia on Monday said all stakeholders are working roundthe-clock to minimise fog-related impact as well as passenger inconvenience, and asserted that unruly passenger behaviour is unacceptable.

A day after poor visibility also forced the Delhi airport to briefly shut down operations of runways, Scindia said aviation regulator DGCA will issue an SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) to ensure "better communication and facilitation of passengers to minimise discomfort in view of flight cancellations and delays due to adverse weather".

Besides, airport operator DIAL has been directed to expedite the operationalisation of CAT IIIenabled fourth runway.

Maldives Asks India To Withdraw Military Personnel

By March 15: Report

The development comes a few days after Miuzzu met Xi Jinping on his first state visit to China after being elected.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has given a deadline to India to withdraw its troops from the island nation. The Maldivian President said the Indian military personnel should leave the nation by March 15. The development comes a few days after Mohamed Muizzu met Xi Jinping on his first state visit to China after being elected.

Maldives recently upgraded ties with China after a diplomatic row between India and Maldives erupted after Maldivian ministers made derogatory comments against Prime Minister Narendra Modi post his visit to Lakshadweep islands. The three ministers were sacked and the Maldivian Opposition criticised the comments, but the President said "We may be small but no one has the license to bully us".

New Delhi: The passenger of an Air India plane who remained stuck inside the aircraft for six hours has pointed to several factors that sparked anger among people, after several airlines cancelled hundreds of fights due to low visibility in Delhi yesterday.

Rifka Verma, the passenger, told NDTV today their patience ran thin due to a combination of factors - children getting restless, not getting food, and air-conditioning not working.

"The flight was to take-off at 9 am. It was obvious seeing the weather condition it would be delayed. But they kept giving conflicting information. After 2 pm, when the aircraft was ready, they said they don't have a crew as that crew has

"They are not valuing their customers, and not keeping them informed," Ms Verma said.

Smooth coordination in Delhi airport broke down yesterday after hundreds of passengers of delayed flights demanded answers from the airlines.

The stressful day also saw the passenger of an IndiGo flight attacking a pilot been put on another flight," Ms Verma inside the plane while it was on the told NDTV. tarmac.

"It was absolute chaos. After they got Air India in a statement today said it a crew it was 5.30 pm. We boarded regrets the disruption to operations around 8 pm. There was no pilot. I don't arising from the last few days' dense think the ground staff or the crew is to fog in north India, including at "our blame. It's the management, or rather mismanagement... There was no food, main Delhi hub, which resulted in some only some packets of chips in 17 hours," diversions and desynchronisation of aircraft and crew rotations." she said.

Bachchan Buys 2 Indian Students Found Dead In US, Amitabh Land In Ayodhya For Rs. Had Moved There Just 2 Weeks Ago 14.5 Crore: Report The students were identified as G Dinesh (22) from Wanaparthy in Telangana and Nikesh (21) from Srikakulam in Andhra Pradesh.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Amaravati/Hyderabad: Two studentsone from Wanaparthy in Telangana and another from Srikakulam in Andhra Pradesh- were found dead in their Connecticut accommodation in the US recently, a family member said on Monday.

The students were identified as G Dinesh (22) from Wanaparthy in Telangana and Nikesh (21) from Srikakulam in Andhra Pradesh. Family members of the Telangana student are clueless about the cause of his death and also of his roommate's. "Dinesh's friends who live in a nearby room called us on Saturday night and informed us about his death and his roommate's. We have no clue as to how he died," Dinesh's family members said. According to a family member, Dinesh went to Hartford, Connecticut in the US for higher studies on December 28, 2023 while Nikesh reached a few days later.

Incidentally, they were mutual friends of some common friends and became roommates after going to the US. A member of Dinesh's family noted that they have sought the help of Union Tourism Minister G Kishan Reddy and Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy to bring back Dinesh's body.

Wanaparthy MLA Megha Reddy has also chipped in to help bring back Dinesh's body. He called on the family members of the student and comforted them. Further, a member of Dinesh's family said they had no contact with Nikesh's family members as the two went to the US only recently.

Similarly, even the Srikakulam district administration does not have any information on Nikesh yet.

Srikakulam Police Special Branch DSP K Balaraju noted that even the district collectorate did not receive information on Nikesh or his family members.

The Chief Minister responded positively and stated that arrangements would be made to bring back the body to his native place.

"He's Been A Great President": Vivek Ramaswamy On Donald Trump

HiIndia Newsdesk

Washington: Reacting to former US President Donald Trump's verbal attack, Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy said on Sunday (local time) that he is not assigning much weight to Trump's first criticism of his campaign, CNN reported.

Speaking to reporters after a campaign event in Iowa's Ankeny, Ramaswamy said he "doesn't hold it against" Trump that the former US President called his campaign "deceitful." Speaking to CNN, Ramaswamy said, "I interpret it as bad campaign strategist corporate consultant advice that he might have received, and so I don't hold it against him. ... He's been a great president."

Washington: Reacting to former US President Donald Trump's verbal attack, Republican candidate Vivek Ramaswamy said on Sunday (local time) that he is not assigning much weight to Trump's first criticism of his campaign, CNN reported.

HiIndia Newsdesk

New Delhi: Superstar Amitabh Bachchan has reportedly bought a plot in a seven-star enclave in Ayodhya, the holy town in Uttar Pradesh where the majestic Ram temple is set to open its doors later this month.

Mumbai-based developer The House of Abhinandan Lodha (HoABL) has not disclosed the size and the value of the plot. But industry sources suggest it is around 10,000 sqft and costs ₹ 14.5 crore, reported Hindustan Times.

The Sarayu, spread over 51 acres, will be formally inaugurated on January 22, the day the grand consecration ceremony of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple will be held in Ayodhya.

It is about 15 minutes away from the temple and half an hour from the airport, according to the developer.

The project is expected to be completed by March 2028 and have a five-star palace hotel.

I’m not interested in being Vice President: Nikki Haley HiIndia Newsdesk

New York, Jan 15 (IANS) Hours before the Iowa caucuses kickstarting the Republican presidential nomination process, Indian-American presidential aspirant Nikki Haley has said she is not keen on playing second fiddle to former boss Donald Trump.

Pushing across ice-cold Iowa and hoping for a strong finish in the state, the lone woman in the 2024 presidential race remains confident about her election as the next US President.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

21

773.526.8353

CURRENT AFFAIRS

Trump Wins Iowa Caucus: Why Iowa Caucus is Important, and what it means for US Elections

T

Zofeen Maqsood

But What happens at the Caucus

he first presidential nominating contest for the Iowa caucuses took place on Monday night.

The news projections show that Donald Trump would likely be contesting against Biden in November.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis came second and Nikki Haley trailed third.

Indian American entrepreneur Vivek Ramswamy announced he is finishing his campaign after getting a fourth spot.

Unlike the primaries where voters cast a secret ballot, the Iowa caucus is where voters gather and openly express their thoughts and preferences for a particular candidate. What happens during a caucus is that a representative from each campaign is allowed to give a short speech followed by ballots being handed out to caucus goers. The ballots are then collected and counted.

After the results are tabulated, they are announced and submitted.

What is Iowa Caucus

In simple terms, the Iowa caucuses can be said to be one of the preceding main events leading to the presidential race.

It gives the presidential candidates their first chance to make an impression whether they are likely to stay or would have to end their races. It is really an all or nothing moment for the presidential hopefuls and often decides who gets the coveted nomination. Political parties have been using caucuses in Iowa to select candidates

Who can participate

All registered Republicans who are eligible to cast their vote can participate

The Key Take Away

Some of the key insights after Monday nights’ caucuses are that President Donald Trump emerged as the clear front-runner. He led by a huge margin and secured nearly 30 points as opposed to just 8 secured by Ron DeSantis. This win boosts Trump’s stand as the most likely candidate to be facing Biden in November elections.

This also shows that Trump continues to be popular amongst his base and never mind impeachment proceedings against him.

The first Real Test

The Iowa Caucuses also serve as the first real testing ground for the candidates to show their strengths. It is also a crucial moment to show how popular they are amongst the voters and how likely they are to mobilize masses.

Asia Society Appoints Akshay Mathur As Senior Director

Mayor Adams Alleviates Reductions In $109.4 Billion Preliminary Budget For The Upcoming Year HiIndia Newsdesk

NEW YORK, NY- Get ready for another round of budget fluctuations, New Yorkers.

May or E r i c Ad am s re v e a l e d a preliminary budget of $109.8 billion for the upcoming year on Tuesday, assuring that there won’t be drastic cuts to services as previously warned and often reversed in the past months.

Libraries, which had to suspend Sunday service, will be fully exempt from additional service reductions in 2025, according to Adams. Additionally, schools, social services, youth and

Akshay Mathur HiIndia Newsdesk

LOS ANGELES, CA – Akshay Mathur has been appointed Senior Director of the Asia Society Policy Institute’s Delhi office. He will lead a team focusing on security, economics, and climate, connecting India’s policies to global communities. Mathur’s expertise lies in geoeconomics, including international financial architecture and global governance. C. Raja Mohan, the previous lead, continues as a Non-Resident Distinguished Fellow.

Mathur is also a Non-Resident Senior Fellow at the Centre for International Governance Innovation in Canada. He holds advanced degrees from Harvard University, Boston University, and the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.

community development, and the city’s Department for the Aging will experience partial exemptions.

Adams justified these adjustments by

NJ Leadership Program: Summer Fellowship Applications Open

HiIndia Newsdesk

FREEHOLD, NJ – The New Jersey Leadership Program (NJLP) has opened applications for its 2024 Summer Fellowship Program, now in its eighth year. Aimed at introducing South Asian youth in New Jersey to government and politics, the six-week program offers internships with legislative and government offices. Applications are due by March 1, 2024, and can be

submitted online at www.njlead.org.

The Fellowship Program includes a weekly speakership series with elected officials, government staffers, journalists, and non-profit leaders.

NJLP President Ishan Shah expressed optimism about the program’s future, highlighting the expanded board and increased statewide interest from youth.

The board welcomed Ayush Nallapally, Romi Pal, and Shea Amin, all alumni of the Fellowship Program, to further engage South Asian youth leaders in New Jersey and beyond. Dedicated to promoting South Asian American youth participation in local government, NJLP continues its commitment to education and engagement in the state.

emphasizing the importance of these services to New York. He attributed the city’s stronger-than-expected finances to careful planning, savings, and an unexpectedly robust economy. Adams also highlighted the city’s ability to save $1.7 billion on asylum seeker costs.

However, many elected officials remain unconvinced, expressing concerns about Adams’ budget calculations since the announcement of significant mid-year cuts in November. They pointed out that the city’s tax revenues fall $2.9 billion short of the November projections.

Vivek Ramaswamy Ends His Presidential Campaign Zofeen Maqsood

In a short time, Indian American Presidential h o p e f u l Vi v e k Ramaswamy managed to b e in the news and raised many eyebrows with his statements too.

However, his short, eventful run came to an end when he dropped out of his Presidential run. On January 15, soon after Donald Trump won the Iowa caucus by about 30 points over his closest rival, Ramaswamy announced the suspension of his 2024 Presidential run.

22

/hiindialive

/hiindiaNews

@hiindia

773.526.8353

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

LIFESTYLE

Empowering reads for a transformative 2024

Author Bio:

Astro Friend Chirag

Celebrity Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla is the son of famous astrologer Bejan Daruwalla.

He is known for his detailed astrological predictions on career, health, love, finance, and business. You can visit their website bejandaruwalla.com for guidance on problems related to your life and solve your problem with the help of expert astrologer Chirag Daruwalla. For guidance on problems related to your life you can talk to Astrologer Chirag Daruwalla on Call/Whatsapp: +91 9825470377 or also mail on: info@bejandaruwalla.com

(Son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla)

New Delhi: (IANSlife) As the New Year unfolds, resolutions abound, often centred on personal and professional development. Engaging with empowering books sparks a transformative journey.

These books aren't just repositories of knowledge; they're guiding beacons that illuminate the path toward selfimprovement and success.

By delving into these insightful narratives, individuals gain access to strategies and perspectives essential for honing their skills, nurturing resilience, and fostering growth in both personal and professional spheres.Great books have an indelible impact on readers. More than mere inspiration, they provide actionable insights and strategies that empower individuals to translate their aspirations into tangible achievements.

Whether aiming to enhance leadership skills, cultivate resilience, or foster a healthier mindset, books serve as mentors, supporting individuals in their pursuit of goals.

Utilising the transformative power of literature to fuel personal and professional advancement in 2024, the British Council Digital Library stands ready to enrich and empower individuals in their pursuit of knowledge and self-betterment. Here are five empowering reads that offer profound insights and practical wisdom to help you navigate life's challenges and unlock your potential: Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek

START WITH WHY

asks (and answers) the questions: why are some people and organisations more innovative, more influential, and more profitable than others? Why do some command greater loyalty from customers and employees alike? Even among the successful, why are so few able to repeat their success over and over?

The book shows that the leaders who have had the greatest influence in the world all think, act and communicate the same way—and it's the opposite of what everyone else does. Sinek calls this powerful idea The Golden Circle, and it provides a framework upon which organizations can be built, movements can be led, and people can be inspired.

And it all starts with WHY.

Grit:

The Power of Passion and Perseverance

by Angela Duckworth In this book, psychologist Angela Duckworth shows anyone striving to succeed—be it parents, students, educators, athletes, or business

people—that the secret to outstanding achievement is not talent but a special blend of passion and persistence she calls “grit.”

Drawing on her own powerful story as the daughter of a scientist who frequently noted her lack of “genius,” Duckworth, now a celebrated researcher and professor, describes her early eyeopening stints in teaching, business consulting, and neuroscience, which led to the hypothesis that what really drives success is not “genius” but a unique combination of passion and long-term perseverance.

Not a Life Coach:

Are You Ready to Change Your Life? by James Smith James Smith is back to challenge everything you thought you knew about the path to fulfilment and happiness.

With hard-hitting home truths and a helping of tough love, be prepared to reset your outlook, redefine your goals and truly consider: What does success truly mean to you?

Now, more than ever is the time to take back control. Time to stop sleep-walking through your life; to challenge the status quo; and to truly ask yourself if you’re on the right path to success, happiness and fulfilment.

12 Rules for Life:

An Antidote to Chaos by Jordan B. Peterson Drawing on his work as a clinical psychologist and on lessons from humanity's oldest myths and stories, Peterson offers twelve profound and realistic principles to live by. After all, as he reminds us, we each have a vital role to play in the unfolding destiny of the world.

Deep, rewarding and enlightening, 12 Rules for Life is a lifeboat built solidly for stormy seas: ancient wisdom applied to our contemporary problems.

Can't Hurt Me:

Master Your Mind and Defy the Odds by David Goggins For David Goggins, childhood was a nightmare -- poverty, prejudice, and physical abuse coloured his days and haunted his nights. But through selfdiscipline, mental toughness, and hard work, Goggins transformed himself from a depressed, overweight young man with no future into a U.S. Armed Forces icon and one of the world's top endurance athletes. The only man in history to complete elite training as a Navy SEAL, Army Ranger, and Air Force Tactical Air Controller.

19th January 2024 to 25th January 2024 Aries Ganesha says that this week the people of the Aries zodiac will have to maintain humility in their speech.

Due to the presence of Mars in the Marak place suddenly there is a big loss. There are chances of accidents at this time. The people doing the job may get a chance to go on a big trip. A dispute may arise in the family. Do not rely too much on friends, otherwise, money may be lost.

Taurus

Ganesha that this week the ego will increase. You may get into a dispute this week. Use your energy wisely.

At this time, with the help of your wife, you can start a new work. You have to be careful with your secret enemies this week. You will have to work extra hard to please your senior at the workplace. There is a possibility of getting benefits with the help of Seniors.

Gemini

Ganesha says that there may be a slight delay in completing the work of the people of the Gemini zodiac this week. People associated with media, journalism, and writing will have to work extra hard this week.

At this time, time can be wasted traveling with friends.

Cancer

Ganesha says that this week is going to be good for the people associated with politics. The people associated with the work of land, building, and fire are going to benefit this week.

If you are thinking of buying some land for investment then this is a good time for you.

Leo

Ganesha says that this week the people of the Leo zodiac are going to get good respect at the workplace.

At this time, you will work to take your team forward by becoming a team leader. At this time there will be some travel in connection with your work which will give benefits.

Virgo

Ganesha says that this week, some auspicious work can be organized in the family of the natives of Virgo.

If any court case is going on at this time, then you can get victory in it.

People preparing for competitive exams can taste success at this time.

Your friendship with a female colleague can turn into love.

Libra

Ganesha says that this week the people of the Libra zodiac will have to protect themselves from seasonal diseases. You may have some mental trouble at this time.

The conjunction of Sun-Mercury and Venus in the money house is indicating towards getting wealth from the family.

Scorpio

Ganesha says that you will start this week with Bhagyesh Chandra, which will increase your fortune and awaken your interest in religion. You are going to get the blessings of your father and guru. Due to the combination of Lagnesh in the ascendant of the tenth Sun, you will get money from government works.

Sagittarius

Ganesha says that for the people of this zodiac, the week will start any sudden pain and mental stress are possible. There can be an excess of travel. You may have to work hard for success in the workplace.

At this time tension is visible in the love relationship, if you are thinking of making a love proposal to someone, then it is advisable to avoid the intention.

Capricorn

Ganesha says that for the people of this zodiac, the week is going to start well. At this time you are going to spend a good time with your wife. At this time you are going to benefit from travel. There are chances of religious journeys.

During this period, you have to leave your laziness and move forward.

Aquarius

Ganesha says that during the week of the people of this zodiac you will have to avoid seasonal diseases. At this time, the people trying for foreign visas can get success.

Pisces

Ganesha says that the week of the people of this zodiac is going to start this time can go out with the children. Student class will get success in studies. At this time, your attraction to the opposite sex can turn into love.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

23

773.526.8353

COMMUNITY NEWS

Is Your Store Awesome? The Power Of Signage In Retail Success

interaction. Consistent, eye-catching displays strengthen brand identity and make your store stand out. They also improve customer navigation, guiding them through the store to discover products and promotions. For retailers utilizing NRS POS systems, the ease of updating digital content ensures that their store remains relevant and engaging, adapting quickly to market trends and customer preferences.

HiIndia Newsdesk

Immediately grabbing customers’ attention is crucial for success in the competitive retail landscape. Stores with the right aesthetics and visual appeal can significantly enhance the shopping experience. Understanding this, National Retail Solutions (NRS) continually innovates to support independent retailers. Our recent partnership with Source One Digital marks a significant leap forward, providing small businesses with tools and resources previously accessible only to larger chains.

The Significance of Signage

Let’s talk about signage. It’s not just a label or a price tag; it’s the silent ambassador of your brand. Effective signage inside and outside your store can be the difference between a customer walking in or passing by. It’s about creating an inviting atmosphere, guiding your customers through the store, and enhancing their overall experience.

“At NRS, we understand that the retail environment is constantly evolving.

That’s why we’re committed to providing solutions that meet our retailers’ current demands and pave the way for future innovations. Integrating digital graphics is a step towards creating a more dynamic and engaging customer experience.” – says Elie Y. Katz, President & CEO of National Retail Solutions (NRS).

In-Store Signage and Displays: More Than Meets the Eye

In-store signage does more than just show prices or product information; it tells a story. How you design your

Texas Blocks Border Patrol, Woman and 2 Children Drown in Rio Grande

HiIndia Newsdesk

EAGLE PASS, TX- Texas National Guard troops, under Operation Lone Star, control access to Shelby Park at the U.S.-Mexico border in Eagle Pass, Texas.

On January 12, 2024, a woman and two children drowned in the Rio Grande as Border Patrol was allegedly prevented from deploying lifesaving efforts by Operation Lone Star agents.

The Texas Militar y Department, overseeing the operation, acknowledged blocking access but claimed the migrants had already drowned when the request for access came. The Justice Department filed lawsuits against Texas, challenging its border security initiative, and the White House criticized Governor Abbott’s actions.

The incident has sparked a political clash over immigration policies and border control responsibilities.

The NRS and Source One Digital Advantage Elie Y. Katz, President & CEO; National Retail Solutions (NRS)

in-store signage can guide customers through a journey in your store. Floor graphics, for instance, are not only visually appealing but also practical.

They can lead customers to specific products or sales, creating a seamless shopping experience.

Displays are equally important. They’re like the highlight reel of your store, showcasing the best you have to offer.

Retailers using NRS POS systems can now create visually stunning displays that capture attention and evoke curiosity.

Window Graphics and Outdoor Signage: The Invitation

Your store’s exterior is your first chance to communicate with potential customers.

Window graphics and outdoor signage should be more than just informative; they should be enticing. They are your invitation to the world, urging people to step inside and see what you offer.

NRS retailers can now create window

displays and outdoor signage that are not just seen but remembered.

Digital Graphics: The Future in Retail

This partnership is more than just about providing services; it empowers retailers. As a retailer using NRS’s POS system, you can now access Source One Digital’s exceptional grand-format digital printing services. This means you can create a cohesive, visually appealing environment that resonates with your customers, ultimately driving sales and building a memorable brand.

In the evolving world of retail, integrating digital graphics into your store’s design Conclusion: Make Your Store is vital. These vibrant, dynamic displays Awesome offer a unique way to engage customers, “Our goal at NRS is to empower our showcasing promotions and adding a independent retailers to compete with touch of entertainment to the shopping the big chains. Now retailers who use experience. Embracing digital graphics NRS point of sale systems have access means staying current and appealing to premium printing and cutting-edge to a broader audience, especially the tech-savvy generation. It’s not just tools. Adopting digital signage is more than embracing technology; it’s about about displaying information; it’s enhancing how our customers connect about creating an interactive and with their clientele, ensuring their memorable environment that resonates business thrives and stands out in a with customers. competitive market.” concludes Katz.

Enhancing Branding and For more information about getting the Customer Experience NRS POS and enhancing your store’s branding and signage, call (973) 382 – Digital signage in stores goes beyond mere decoration; it significantly 7838 ext. 4057. enhances branding and customer

Virmani named H-2B Returning Worker Visa Sanjay special agent in charge Cap Filled for FY 2024 H1

HiIndia Newsdesk

WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough petitions to reach the cap for the additional 20,716 H-2B visas made available for returning workers for the first half of fiscal year 2024 with start dates on or before March 31, 2024, under the H-2B supplemental cap temporary final rule (FY 2024 TFR). Jan.9, 2024, was the final receipt date for petitions requesting supplemental H-2B visas under the FY 2024 first half returning worker allocation.

We are still accepting petitions for H-2B nonimmigrant workers with start dates on or before March 31, 2024, for the additional 20,000 visas allotted for nationals of El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Haiti, Colombia, Ecuador, and Costa Rica (country-specific allocation),

as well as those who are exempt from the congressionally mandated cap, as well as those who are exempt from the congressionally mandated cap.

The FY 2024 TFR was published on Nov. 17, 2023, with an immediate effective date. USCIS immediately began accepting H-2B petitions with start dates on or before March 31, 2024, for the 20,716 returning worker allocation for the first half of FY2024, and the 20,000 allocation for nationals of El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Haiti, Colombia, Ecuador, and Costa Rica who are exempt from the returning worker requirement.

Petitioners with start dates on or before March 31, 2024, whose workers were not accepted for the 20,716 returning worker allocation are encouraged to file under the country-specific allocation while visas remain available. As of Jan. 12, 2024, USCIS has received petitions requesting 4,500 workers under the 20,000 visas set aside for nationals of El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Haiti, Colombia, Ecuador, and Costa Rica. Additional information on the FY 2024 supplemental visas is available on the Temporary Increase in H-2B Nonimmigrant Visas for FY 2024 page.

Sanjay Virmani Zofeen Maqsood

Indian American Sanjay Virmani has been named as the special agent in charge of the Counterterrorism Division of the Washington Field Office according to the FBI press release.

He recently served as deputy assistant director in the Counterterrorism Division at FBI Headquarters. Mr. Virmani joined the FBI as a special agent in 2003. He earned a bachelor’s in industrial engineering from California State Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo and received a master’s in business administration from the Naval PostGraduate School in Monterey, California.

24

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS

NRS And AMS Partner To Deliver POS Solutions To Retail Fuel Stations

16 Indian Americans Among Academic Inventors

HiIndia Newsdesk

NEWARK, NJ – National Retail Solutions (NRS) is thrilled to announce its partnership with AMS Energy Technologies, becoming the Point Of Sale (POS) provider for AMS’s innovative Portable Above Ground Stations (PAGS). This collaboration aligns with the mission of both companies to revolutionize the retail fuel industry in the U.S., promoting a cleaner, greener, and more efficient fueling solution.

With fuel consumption at an all-time high and traditional gas stations declining, AMS’s groundbreaking PAGS technology is reshaping how Americans access fuel. AMS Energy Technologies Inc. offers the only above-ground fuel delivery system approved for retail use in the U.S., presenting a cost-effective alternative to traditional fuel delivery.

This partnership with NRS further augments the modernized fueling experience by integrating top-notch gas pump-integrated POS systems and streamlining transactions for consumers and local retailers.

“The collaboration with AMS Energy Technologies is a testament to our commitment to fostering innovative solutions in the retail industry,” states Elie Y. Katz, CEO of National Retail Solutions. “Providing our gas pumpintegrated POS systems to AMS’s Portable Above Ground Stations, we

USCIS Introduces Organizational Accounts for Online H-1B Collaboration

Zofeen Maqsood

are enhancing the fueling experience, supporting local communities, and promoting environmental sustainability.”

The symbiotic relationship extends beyond mere transaction processing.

Including a convenience store nestled between the fuel dispensers in AMS’s C-PAGS model and NRS’s POS systems ensures seamless access to fresh local produce and other essentials, bridging the accessibility gap in local communities.

Ethan Henderson, Chief Executive Officer at AMS Energy Technologies Inc., comments, “Our alliance with NRS is a milestone in realizing the full potential of our PAGS model. NRS’s robust POS technology complements our vision of offering a financially sound and environmentally conscious

fueling solution while preserving the essence of local communities. This partnership is a significant stride toward reshaping the fueling landscape in the U.S.” With thousands of PAGS installed w o r l d w i d e a n d mu l t i p l e A M S operational units in the U.S., the partnership is poised to significantly impact the retail fuel landscape, delivering a successful, clean, and seamless fueling experience.

National Retail Solutions (NRS) operates the leading point-of-sale (POS) terminal-based platform and NRS PAY credit card processing for small and mid-size independent retailers, with over 27,000 active terminals nationwide.

NRS is a subsidiary of IDT Corporation (NYSE: IDT).

Hindu Americans Rally for Ayodhya

Grand Car Parade in NJ Marks Anticipation for Ram Temple Opening

16 Indian American inventors have found a place among 162 academic inventors in the National Academy of Inventors (NAI) 2023 Class of Fellows.

Getting selected as an Academy Fellow is the highest professional distinction awarded to inventors.

The 2023 class of Fellows will be presented medals at the NAI 13th Annual Meeting on June 18, 2024, in Raleigh, North Carolina.

The Indian American inventors in the list are: Arvind Agarwal, Florida International University; Sanjoy Banerjee, City University of New York; Ashok Gadgil, University of California, Berkeley; Balakrishna Haridas, Texas A&M University; M. N. V. Ravi Kumar, The University of Alabama; Prashant Kumta, University of Pittsburgh; Prashant Mali, University of California, San Diego; Dinesh Manocha, University of Maryland, College Park; Arumugam Manthiram, The University of Texas at Austin; Seemantini Nadkarni, Massachusetts General Hospital; Jagjit Nanda, Stanford University; Ravindra Pandey, University at Buffalo, The State University of New York; Niketa Patel, University of South Florida; Anil Sood, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center; Srinivas Sridhar, Northeastern University; and Karthikeyan Sundaresan, Georgia Institute of Technology.

Ben & Jerry’s Urges Permanent Ceasefire

HiIndia Newsdesk

WASHINGTON, DC- The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is set to introduce customer experience improvements for the upcoming H-1B cap season.

Organizational accounts for non-cap filings will be launched for the fiscal year 2025 H-1B cap season, allowing collaboration among individuals within an organization and their legal representatives.

This initiative aims to enhance efficiency and reduce errors in the H-1B petition process. USCIS plans to launch organizational accounts in February 2024, with online filing of Forms I-129 and I-907 to follow.

Additionally, USCIS will shift paper filing locations to the USCIS lockbox, aiming to standardize processes and increase efficiency. National engagements on organizational accounts are scheduled for Jan. 23 and 24, with smaller sessions leading up to the H-1B registration period. USCIS encourages participation in these sessions to prepare for the FY 2025 H-1B electronic registration process.

Anuradha Mittal Zofeen Maqsood HiIndia Newsdesk

EDISON, NJ – Amidst the growing anticipation in India surrounding the imminent opening of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, fervent devotees organized a car rally. Over 350 cars participated in the rally, adorned with flags bearing images of Lord Ram. Streets were lined with these vehicles, creating a spectacle of devotion.

Leading up to the ‘Pran Pratishtha’ ceremony scheduled for January 22 at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), in collaboration with Hindus from across the US, has strategically placed more than 40 billboards in 10 states.

These billboards have been erected in prominent locations in states such as

Texas, Illinois, New York, New Jersey, and Georgia.

Amitabh VW Mittal, the general secretary of the Hindu Parishad of America, highlighted the resounding message conveyed by these billboards.

The billboards aim to express the elation and joy of Hindu Americans who are actively participating in this extraordinary event. Mittal stated that the emotions of Hindu Americans overflow as they eagerly await the auspicious day of the consecration ceremony. The billboards serve as a visual representation of the shared enthusiasm and anticipation among the Hindu American community for this significant and once-in-a-lifetime event.

Vermont based ice cream giant, Ben & Jerry’s has taken a stance on the ongoing crisis in Gaza. The company has called for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza.

Anuradha Mittal, the company’s board chair said as quoted in the Financial Times, “Peace is the core value of Ben & Jerry’s. From Iraq to Ukraine (the company) has consistently stood for these principles. Today is no different.

Mittal was born and brought up in the city of Kanpur, India. She is also the founder and executive director of Oakland Institute, a progressive think-tank dedicated to driving positive change.It may be noted that this decision has come amidst a longrunning dispute between the company’s board and Unilever about the brands’ attempt to stop selling its products in the occupied Palestinian territories.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

25

773.526.8353

Home 4 U Realty Moving Buyers to their Dream Homes

BUY, SELL, RENT, LEASE! CALL or EMAIL

VIBHA DANI

SPORTS

Realtor / Business Broker

847-877-4324 vibhadani1@gmail.com RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL, BUSINESS INVESTMENT Fax: 847-239-7438 1457 Della Dr, Hoffman Estates, IL 60169

26

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

COMMUNITY NEWS

Swastikas Found In NJ Schools Prompt Community Response

Vacation Turned Tragic: Indian American Tara Sreekrishnan running for California Woman Dies On California Beach State Assembly

HiIndia Newsdesk

BRIDGEWATER, NJ Swastikas were discovered in Bridgewater-Raritan schools, leading Superintendent Robert Beers to address the community. A fifth grader expressed distress to the Board of Education on Jan. 2, feeling unsafe due to the incidents. Beers condemned hate speech in a letter, emphasizing immediate investigations and police involvement for potential hate crimes.

Bridgewater Police Chief Mitzak confirmed the presence of swastikas at Bridgewater Raritan Middle School, indicating an ongoing investigation.

Beers urged reporting any hate speech and called on parents to discuss these issues, aiming for an inclusive school environment.

Nikki Haley Failed To Engage Indian Voters In Iowa HiIndia Newsdesk

IOWARepublican Nikki Haley who is vying for Presidency, has failed to reach out to engage with Indian America voters, many in the community feel. With only a week remaining to the Iowa caucuses the South Asian and Indian associations in the state have seen no active engagements from the side of Haley.

There are about 20,000 Indian voters in Iowa but Haley has so far failed to speak about her heritage or mention her roots in a way to connect with this group of voters.

However, many in the community feel that this may not be new for Indian American candidates in presidential politics. While the community feels connected to see an Indian-origin, it often disappoints that the candidates do not see them as a major voting bloc.

Zofeen Maqsood

CALIFORNIA- A tragic incident unfolded on the shores of San Luis Obispo County in the Central Coast of California, claiming the life of Brindha Shunmuganathan, a 39-year-old Indian American woman hailing from Georgia.

Brindha, a devoted mother of two, had embarked on a trip to California, seeking moments of joy and relaxation with her family.

The fateful episode occurred at a picturesque beach access point located near the Sea Crest Hotel in Pismo Beach.

What was intended to be a cherished family outing quickly transformed into a heart-wrenching accident. As Brindha attempted to capture precious moments with her two young children against the backdrop of the ocean, an unexpected large wave surged towards them with

formidable force.

In a desperate attempt to shield her children from harm, Brindha courageously tried to navigate the powerful waves. Tragically, she became ensnared in the tumultuous high surf, ultimately being swept over a jagged bed of rocks. Despite the valiant efforts of her family members and bystanders who promptly rescued the children from the perilous waters, Brindha remained trapped amidst the relentless waves.

Swift action ensued as individuals on the scene intervened, initiating CPR in a bid to revive Brindha. Their efforts persisted until the arrival of medical first responders, who promptly assumed control of the rescue operations. Despite the concerted endeavors to resuscitate he r, Br i nd h a Shu n mu g an at h an succumbed to the injuries she sustained during the harrowing ordeal.

As the community grapples with the profound loss, investigations are underway to ascertain the precise cause of Brindha’s tragic demise. The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable and potentially perilous nature of oceanic conditions, urging individuals to exercise caution and vigilance during beach visits.

Zofeen Maqsood

Tara Sreekrishnan who is currently serving on the Santa Clara County Board of Education, will be running for California State Assembly from District 26. Announcing her run, the Indian American community activist said, “I believe in Silicon Valley, yet it’s crucial to acknowledge the challenges our residents face: housing affordability, climate change, traffic congestion, and an education system that needs strengthening.

Addressing these challenges – and spending tax dollars efficiently and effectively – is why I’m running for State Assembly.”

All of 30-years-old, Sreekrishnan has been deeply involved with the community. She has been on the county board of education since 2021.

Texas Governor Seizes Eagle Pass Park in Immigration Move

Gunmen Targeted 5 Liquor Stores Overnight At Chicago’s NW Side

HiIndia Newsdesk

CHICAGO, IL- Gunmen targeted at least five liquor stores on Thursday night across Chicago’s Northwest Side. According to Chicago police, in each instance, three males armed with handguns entered the liquor stores

and proceeded to steal cash from the registers. Disturbingly, in two of these incidents, the perpetrators assaulted the clerks.

The incidents occurred at the following locations: • North Elston Avenue in Irving Park • West Irving Park Road in Albany Park • West Montrose Avenue • North Central Avenue in Logan Square • West Belmont Avenue in Schorsch Village. As of now, law enforcement has not established a link between these robberies. Area Five detectives continue to investigate, and no suspects are currently in custody.

HiIndia Newsdesk

SAN ANTONIO, TX — Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has taken control of Shelby Park in Eagle Pass, a U.S.Mexico border town, for immigration enforcement. Military vehicles appeared at the park, with Mayor Rolando Salinas emphasizing the city didn’t request this action. The state’s move comes amidst efforts to fortify the southern border, according to Abbott’s office. Previously, the park sparked controversy when the city tried to declare it private for arresting migrants, a decision later reversed due to public opposition.

Indian Judge Dalveer Bhandari At The ICJ Cook County Warming Centers Open Hearing On Genocide Case Against Israel As Temperatures Set To Plunge

Judge Dalveer Bhandari HiIndia Newsdesk

All the worlds’ eyes are on currently at the International Court of Justice (ICJ) which is holding hearing on a case brought up by South Africa against Israel, accusing them of genocide in Gaza. South Africa is seeking an

emergency suspension of Israel’s military campaign that has left far too many civilians dead.

15 judges will be hearing oral arguments from lawyers representing South Africa and Israel. Judge Dalveer Bhandari who is currently one of the judges of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is a former judge of Supreme court of India. He has in the past also been a chief justice at Bombay High Court and a judge at the Delhi High Court.

A Padma Bhushan award recipient, the third highest civilian award in India, Bhandari was nominated by India as its official candidate in 2012 for the post of the judge at ICJ. He belongs to a family of lawyers hailing from Rajasthan. He studied law at the Jodhpur University and then obtained his masters in law from the NorthWestern University’s School of Law in Chicago.

HiIndia Newsdesk

CHICAGO, IL- Cook County will experience signif icant snowfall overnight and throughout Friday and dangerously low temperatures starting Saturday into early next week. The National Weather Service has advised that there may be upwards of 7-10 inches of snow and wind chills will make it feel as cold as -20°F Sunday with bitterly cold temperatures continuing through Tuesday morning.

Cook County is opening 24-hour warming centers in the north, west

and south suburbs to help residents combat extreme weather conditions.

The warming centers will open at 3 p.m.

Saturday and run continuously until 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, January 16.

Residents who do not have adequate access to heat are advised to seek respite at a warming center.

The center locations are as follows: • Skokie Courthouse: 5600 Old Orchard Road, Skokie, IL 60077 • Maywood Courthouse: 1500 Maybrook Dr., Maywood, IL 60153 • Markham Courthouse: 16501 S. Kedzie Ave., Markham, IL 60428 • The County’s warming centers will provide water and snacks as well as access to restrooms. Resident can bring pets in cages or carriers. If you do not have a cage or carrier, there will be a limited number available at each courthouse location.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

27

773.526.8353

INSTANT DIGITAL PRINTING Printing made easier than ever!

Quick & Quality Printing Services COLOR COPIES, BLACK & WHITE COPIES, BUSINESS CARDS, FLYERS, POSTCARDS, MENUS, BROCHURES, ENVELOPES, BOOKLETS, MAGAZINE, SIGNS, POSTERS, BANNERS, DECALS VARIABLE DATA MAIL MERGE, COLLATING & FOLDING TICKETS & COUPONS WITH NUMBERING & PERFORATION SPIRAL & COMB BINDING & MUCH MORE

EMAIL OR CALL US TODAY!

DESIGN & PRINTING SOLUTIONS

1595 East Oakton Street, Des Plaines, IL 60018.

Phone: 224.725.3747 info@goodmansgraphics.com

www.goodmansgraphics.com

28

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

HEALTH

Obesity may raise risk of blood cancer by over 70%: Study

JN.1 variant to soon become dominant strain in China: Health officials

HiIndia Newsdesk

New York: IANS) Researchers find that obesity may increase the risk of developing multiple myeloma -- a blood cancer of the plasma cells -by more than 70 per cent.

Smoking habits and exercise may also impact one’s likelihood of developing multiple myeloma, said the team from Massachusetts General Hospital in the US. The research published in Blood Advances revealed that individuals with obesity are more likely to have monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) -- a benign blood condition that often precedes multiple myeloma.

“While significant advancements have been made in therapeutics for multiple myeloma, it remains an incurable disease, often diagnosed after patients have already experienced endorgan damage,” explained David Lee, from Massachusetts General Hospital.

The team enrolled 2,628 individuals from across the US who were at elevated risk of developing multiple myeloma, based on self-identified race and family history of hematologic malignancies, between February 2019 and March 2022.

They found that being obese was associated with 73 per cent higher odds of having MGUS,

compared to individuals with normal weights.

This association remained unchanged when accounting for physical activity.

However, highly active individuals (defined as doing the equivalent of running or jogging 45-60 minutes per day or more) were less likely to have MGUS even after adjusting for BMI class, whereas those who reported heavy smoking and short sleep were more likely to also have detectable levels of MGUS. MGUS, characterised by an abnormal protein produced by plasma cells, is a known precursor to multiple myeloma. Most people with MGUS exhibit no significant symptoms and are not immediately ill. Rather, the presence of MGUS serves as a warning to monitor for the potential development of more critical conditions, like multiple myeloma, that MGUS can turn into.

"These results guide our future research in understanding the influence of modifiable risk factors, such as weight, exercise, and smoking, on cancer risk," explained Lee. "Before we can develop effective preventative health strategies to lower the risk of serious diseases like multiple myeloma, we first need to better understand the relationship between MGUS and potentially modifiable risk factors like obesity.”

Beijing: (IANS) China is likely to see a rebound in Covid-19 infections in January, and the highly transmissible JN.1 variant will become the dominant strain, health authorities have said.

At a press briefing on Sunday, Mi Feng, a spokesperson with the National Health Commission, said that since the New Year's Day, the number of patients received at fever clinics in medical institutions across the country has shown a fluctuating downward trend, Global Times reported.

Currently, the country is majorly seeing influenza cases, while the Covid cases are at a relatively low level.

However, recent data from the multi-channel monitoring system showed the proportion of the JN.1 variant strain having an upward trend, Wang Dayan, director of the China National Influenza Center, National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (China CDC) was quoted as saying.

Due to continuous importation of the JN.1 variant strain, a gradual decrease in domestic influenza, and a decline in population immunity, the Covid-19 epidemic may rebound in January, with the JN.1 variant highly likely to develop into the dominant variant in China, Wang said. Wang also noted that southern provinces in China entered the influenza season in early October, followed by northern provinces in late October. Initially, the predominant circulating strain was the H3N2 subtype influenza virus. But, in the past three weeks, the proportion of influenza B virus in southern provinces has increased to 36.8 per cent, and in the past five weeks, the proportion in northern provinces has risen to 57.7 per cent.

Reduced 'blood lead levels' linked with cardiovascular health improvements: Study San Francisco: (IANS) Researchers have discovered that small declines in "blood lead levels" were associated with long-term cardiovascular health improvements in American Indian adults, a new study has said. In the study published in the journal of the American Heart Association, the participants who had the greatest reductions in blood lead levels saw their "systolic blood pressure" fall by about 7 mm Hg -- an amount comparable to the effects of blood pressure-lowering medication.

"We saw that even small decreases in a person’s blood lead levels can have meaningful health outcomes," said senior author Anne E. Nigra, PhD, assistant professor at Columbia Mailman School of Public Health.In addition to seeing improvements in systolic blood pressure, the researchers found that reductions in blood lead levels were associated with reductions in a marker linked with 'hypertrophic cardiomyopathy' and 'heart failure'.

At the start of the study, participants' average blood lead level was 2.04 µg/dL. Throughout the study, the

average blood lead level dropped by 0.67 µg/dL, or 33 per cent. The most significant changes, categorised by participants with average starting blood lead levels of 3.21 µg/dL and who experienced reductions of about 1.78 µg/dL, or 55 per cent, were linked to a 7 mm Hg reduction in systolic blood pressure, the study noted.“This is a sign that whatever is happening in these communities to reduce blood lead levels is working,” said Mona Puggal, MPH, an epidemiologist at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI).

“The reductions in blood pressure are also comparable to improvements you would see with lifestyle changes, such as getting 30 minutes of daily exercise, reducing salt intake, or losing weight,” she added.The researchers emphasised that it is also important to investigate these findings in other communities and to look for additional ways to reduce lead exposure, especially in other populations with elevated risks for exposure and cardiovascular disease.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

29

773.526.8353

COMMUNITY NEWS

How The FBI Is Combating Nutrient-Packed Ponk And COVID-19 Related Fraud Avocado Chaat Recipe

FBI Springfield Field Office Special Agent in Charge – David Nanz HiIndia Newsdesk

WASHINGTON, DC-To address economic hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Government authorized approximately $5 trillion in relief programs. These programs included the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which allowed businesses to apply for forgivable loans to pay for payroll and other expenses; the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (EIDL), which permitted businesses to apply for low interest loans to be used for working capital and other normal expenses; and Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC), which was intended for employees who lost their jobs due to the pandemic.

Unfortunately, many thousands of people chose to steal from these programs by submitting fraudulent applications. The theft was massive in scale. The U.S. Small Business Administration inspector general

COVID-19 related fraud also sends a vital message: people cannot steal money from American taxpayers with impunity. We still have a long way to go to hold more perpetrators accountable, and given the size and scope of the fraud, the FBI and our law enforcement partners cannot do it alone. estimates $136 billion in fraud from the EIDL and $64 billion in fraud from the PPP. For FPUC, the U.S. Government Accountability Office estimates more than $100 billion in fraud. Combined, these losses make the fraud the largest in history.

Ultimately, these losses will be paid

by American taxpayers, and worse, because most of the money was borrowed by the U.S. Government, our children and even grandchildren will be on the hook.

How did some fraudsters spend their stolen money? Some bought real estate, luxury vehicles like Lamborghini and Ferraris, luxury

The Following Op-Ed by FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge David Nanz Was Published in the State Journal Register goods like Rolex watches and jewelry, gold coins, and diamonds. While others used the money in strip clubs, gambling trips to Las Vegas, private jet charters, and bucket-list vacations.

The FBI has been working diligently to hold these thieves accountable.

By collaborating with our partners and utilizing intelligence-driven strategies, we have opened thousands of investigations across the country targeting COVID-19 related fraud.

Just in the FBI’s Springfield Field Office, which covers central and southern Illinois, our team of dedicated special agents, intelligence analysts, and forensic accountants are working investigations which have led to the charging of dozens of subjects.

Recently, one of our investigations led to 19 U.S. Postal Service employees and former employees in central Illinois being charged with defrauding the PPP by claiming bogus expenses in fictitious businesses. In another FBI Springfield investigation, three Peoria men were convicted of defrauding the PPP by claiming to operate barber shops. However, none of them had a registered barber shop, employees, payroll, or business-related expenses, and none were licensed barbers.

Besides the obvious importance of holding criminals accountable, the FBI’s investigative efforts targeting COVID-19 related fraud also sends a vital message: people cannot steal money from American taxpayers with impunity. We still have a long way to go to hold more perpetrators accountable, and given the size and scope of the fraud, the FBI and our law enforcement partners cannot do it alone. So, we ask if you have information on those who defrauded these pandemic relief programs, contact the FBI. To report fraud, go to www.ic3.gov or contact FBI Springfield at 217-522-9675.

By Chef Kuldeep Singh

(Published by HI INDIA-Publisher Mr. Hemant Brahmbhatt)

For those unfamiliar, “ponk” refers to sorghum grains, a type of jowar millet typically harvested at the onset of winter. Sometimes known as ‘paunk’, these sorghum grains possess a dry and green texture and color, respectively. Harvested before reaching full maturity, they boast a softer texture and unique taste. Lightly roasted for tenderness, ponk becomes a versatile ingredient in various dishes. Ponk Bhel stands out as a cherished winter snack in Gujarat. Roasted ponk is combined with onions, tomatoes, coriander leaves, and an array of spices such as chaat masala, salt, black pepper, and a splash of lime juice. Another delightful way to enjoy ponk is by incorporating it into salads, and it’s gluten-free, readily available in Indian grocery stores in the USA.

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

• 40g Ponk (sorghum grains) • 1 Avocado, diced • 8g Sev • 50g Apple, diced • 50g Mango, diced • 40g Chopped Onion • 7g Chopped Coriander • 5g Chaat Masala • 5g •Black Salt • 10g Green Chutney • 10ml Lemon Juice • 2 Green Chilies, finely chopped

• 100g Coriander • 30g Mint • 30g Spinach • 2 Green Chilies • 20g Ginger • 6 Cloves Garlic • 1 Avocado • 40g Thick Yoghurt • Salt to taste • 5g Chaat Masala • 10ml Lemon Juice • 5g Cumin Powder

• Edible Flower • Coriander Cress

Blitz all ingredients (excluding yoghurt).

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl.

Add lemon juice and green chutney, toss well.

Garnish with sev, coriander cress, and optional edible flower raspberries.

Green Chutney

Ad d y o g hu r t f or t h e d e s i re d consistency.

(Note: Add soft ice cubes while blending the chutney to maintain the vibrant green color.)

Garnish: Method:

Method:

Adjust seasoning.

30

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

Classifieds FOR ADVERTISING 773 338 0222

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

773.526.8353

30,000 PRINT EDITION 68K E-BLAST 100K + VISITORS ONLINE ALL PLATFORM ONLY FOR

$40

BOUTIQUE FOR SALE

Indian Clothing Boutique for Sale Now Medicare Advantage PPOGREAT Plans available with:LOCATION

in Hoffman Estates, IL FOR INQUIRY

Call or Text: (224) 558 5865 HOUSEHOLD HELP ઘરકામ માટે બહેનની જરૂર છે શિકાગો-લિંકનવુડ શિસ્​્તારમાં ઘરકામ માટે બહેનની જરૂર છે . િધુ શિગ્તો માટે સંપક્ક કરો

Now Medicare Advantage PPO Plans available with:

Call: 773-263-4062 BUSINESS FOR SALE

Well established Convenience Store for over 22 years for immediate sale. Located on MORSE/CLARK AVE in CHICAGO Close to “L” station and Devon Now Medicare Advantage PPO Plans available with: Ave. Just Loto commission $35,000 a year. We have gaming machines. Serious buyers only.

Email @ rajshah11@yahoo.com MATRIMONIAL Gujarati (Darji) 46 years, Ht 5’-5”, owner of Convinence store and house in Austin, TX, Devorcee, no childrens, invites matrimonial form suitable Now Medicare Advantage PPO Plans availablecorrosspondance with: Gujarati match. Caste no bar. Please send biodate and recent picture at:

MATRIMONIAL Hindu Parents from Jammu Kashmir seeking a suitable match for their 27 year old son. height 5’7 Masters in Engineering. Working as a Business Now Medicare Advantage PPO Plans available with: Analyst with the City of Chicago. Religion no bar.

Please send biodata and recent picture.

P.O.BOX 11912, Austin, TX 78653

Email: sharmak1101@gmail.com

HOUSEHOLD HELP

CONVENIENCE STORE FOR SALE

ઘરકામ માટે બહેનની જરૂર છે શિકાગો-લિંકનવુડ શિસ્​્તારમાં ઘરકામ માટે બહેનની જરૂર છે . િધુ શિગ્તો માટે સંપક્ક કરો

Now Medicare Advantage PPO Plans available with:

Call: 773-263-4062

Downttown Chicago loop newly built Convenience Store in the building,

Now Medicare Advantage PPO Plans available with:

$45,000 per month gross sales,

8 am- 8 pm, 7 days a week. $4,500 lotto commisssion per month, Rent $7,500.

Asking $165,000.

Email: rpbroker@gmail.com BEAUTIFUL WHITE HORSES FOR BARAATS AND VIDAI’S

Carriages & Rickshaws too!

NJ, NY, PA, DE & North FL

Now Medicare Advantage PPO Plans available with:

We Beat Any Legitimate Quote!

Call Equishare: 973-644-3355 or visit: www.EBHorses.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

31

32

/hiindialive

@hiindia

/hiindiaNews

773.526.8353

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19 2024