Voice of Asia Newspaper February 12 2016 by VoiceOf Asia

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Pt. Jasraj, Dr. Renu Khator portray India’s culture at India House 13th Annual Gala

Dr. Renu Khator, Chancellor of the University of Houston System and President of the University of Houston delivering her Keynote address. Photo credit Bijay Dixit. by Shobana Muratee

UGAR LAND - Sangeet Martand Pt. Jasraj, a world renowned vocalist, the quintessential of the Mewati tradition of singing was the star attraction at the India House 13th Annual Gala held on Saturday, Feb. 6th at the Sugar Land Marriott. Before taking the center stage

for his performance, he spoke very dearly of the Pt. Suman Ghosh, Hindustani music maestro and founder of the Center for Indian Classical Music of Houston (CICMH). “Like every person needs someone to raise them to the stars, I needed Suman Ghosh,” he said, speaking in Hindi. The duo gave a breathtaking performance ac-

India House Trustees honor Pandit Jasraj at the India House 13 Annual Gala. Also seen are Pandit Suman Ghosh and CICMH musicians. Photo credit: Bijay Dixit. companied by Smt. Shashikala Ghosh, sisters Amiya and Apurva Ghosh, and Anurag Shah on tabla that got a standing ovation.

Keynote Speaker Dr. Renu Khator, Chancellor of the University of Houston System and President of the University of Houston gave insightful ac-

count of what she perceived as a ‘Hyphenated American’. “It is absolutely clear that it is a privilege,’ she said. She shared her 41 years of experi-

ence here in the United States and characterized herself in three phases: Indian in India, Continued on page 5

Chinese Community Center holds 2016 Lunar New Year Festival

OUSTON, TX (February 6, 2016) On Saturday, February 6, 2016, the Chinese Community Center, a United Way agency, held its Lunar New Year Festival, a multicultural celebration featuring food, fun, and festivities for the entire community. The festival commemorated the Year of the Monkey and attracted over 10,000 visitors. The festival featured attractions, activities, and entertainment for the entire family. Martial artists, dragon and lion dances, traditional Chinese opera shows, Houston Symphony community embedded musician string quartet, dancers, and musicians from diverse cultural backgrounds delighted audiences with vivid and stunning performances throughout the day. A marketplace bazaar enticed visitors with authentic Asian cuisine, along with toys, games, clothing, and souvenirs. The Lunar New Year Festival is funded in part by a grant from the Houston Arts Alliance and is sponsored by HEB, Wells Fargo, McDonald’s, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Frost Bank, ExxonMobil, The Spindle Group, TXU Energy, Xfinity, Houston Fertility Institute, Senior’s Choice, and Silver Eagle Distributions.

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2016 Chinese Community Center Lunar New Year Lion and Dragon Dance by Soaring Phoenix Lion and Dragon Dance Association. Photo Credit: Anna Veselova and Chinese Community Center

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by Nilanjana S Roy BBC-India, 9 February 2016

n December, just before India’s busy literary festival season swung into full gear, over a hundred journalists across the central state of Chhattisgarh were gathering for another round of protests.

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

Viewpoint: Will 2016 be a turning point for free speech in India?

They were demonstrating against the arrests earlier in the year of two local journalists, Santosh Yadav and Somaru Nag, in cases they called “false”. They had been raising their voices ever since August, and with Delhi’s journalists adding their support, the state government finally agreed to set up an independent committee that might look into cases such as this. 2015 had been one of the harshest years in memory for India’s journalists, and for free speech in general - locallanguage newspapers, reporters and stringers had faced everything from defamation suits to threats and detentions, and worse. Reporters Without Borders tracked the cases of nine journalists who had been murdered in 2015 - the most dangerous beats were environmental and political corruption. In Nagaland, newspapers blanked out their editorial spaces in November - an unprecedented gesture, as a protest against military directives that threatened to crush free reporting in the media.

Rot and fear The rot and the fear were not limited to journalism: 2015 was by any standards one of the worst years for free speech in India, with a sharp rise in defamation cases, sedition cases, majoritarian bullying and everywhere, an undercurrent of violence, a sense that mobs, or hired executioners, were never very far away. In the middle of the year, writers across India had returned their state awards after the Karnataka scholar MM Kalburgi was shot by two unidentified attackers in his own home. This gesture of conscience - spontaneous and unplanned snowballed into a surprisingly large demonstration of solidarity as hundreds of academics, scientists, film stars and historians joined in the protest against

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Arundhati Roy faces a contempt of court case over her reporting intolerance.

sands.

At some cost: senior government ministers called the movement a “conspiracy”, and the rightwing’s army of trolls attempted to bully the writers, sometimes brazenly spreading lies about them.

They could be spectacles with film stars, cricketing heroes and politicians grabbing the headlines rather than writers, but they were also increasingly one of the few spaces where writers in English and Hindi could meet authors and publishers whose medium was one of India’s many other languages.

It is impossible not to believe that 2016 will be a turning point for India and free expression in the subcontinent. We could go under, losing more and more essential freedoms as writers, performers, environmentalists and citizens are caught in the crossfire of pressure from the state, as outspoken voices choke in the pollution caused by bad laws, or succumb to the rule of mobs, thugs and the deliberate violence unleashed by religious and political leaders. Or we could see a steady fight wresting back these basic freedoms and demanding them as universal rights, not just rights for the relatively small world of India’s English-speaking writers and journalists. There is a wider sphere that connects the folk singer Kovan, arrested in November under sedition laws in Tamil Nadu for lampooning the government, with Huchangi Prasad, a young Dalit writer from Karnataka who had been beaten up in October and threatened for his writings on caste and religion, and the well-known writer Arundhati Roy, who faces a contempt of court case this month yet again over her reporting, on flimsy grounds.

Appetite for books 2015 had seen a landslide of alarming and tragic events. But these past years in India had also seen an enormous and unsuspected appetite for books, a nascent fascination with authors, bestselling and otherwise. The single biggest indicator of this was the profusion of literary festivals around the country - over 75 at last count, with the largest of them, the Jaipur Literature Festival, drawing crowds in the hundreds of thou-

At the Hindu Lit For Life in Chennai, I had the chance to hear Kannan Sundaram speak. Mr Sundaram is the publisher of Perumal Murugan, the writer who erased himself by announcing, “the death of the writer, Perumal Murugan”. He had been subjected to legal attacks, threatened, and in this deadly game of chess, where writer after writer was accused of provoking acts of organised violence, he had chosen to take himself and his books off the chessboard. Mr Sundaram spoke on the challenges in publishing, a subject on which he was, by any standards, an expert. But on the drive to Jaipur, I was thinking about another incident, an apparently minor one in the present landscape of murders, thuggery, violent intimidation. Just before the New Year, novelist and academic Saikat Majumdar had one of his short stories abruptly pulled from the Mint newspaper’s end-of-theyear fiction special.

‘Violence of words’ Majumdar got in touch with Delhi’s nascent PEN chapter to ask if there was anything the group could do to help. The publication was within its rights not to carry his story, but the reason they gave sounded like self-censorship: their lawyers had said the story contained too much “violence of the words”. The magazine Caravan offered to print the story instead, with an explanatory note, and Majumdar’s The Father of Man came out in its January issue. The incident left a question mark hanging in the air: were we measuring sentences, now, for the violence of their words,

and if so, what was the violence ration? What did editors consider an acceptable, under-theradar amount of violence for words to bear? The festivals felt, this year, somewhere between an escape from the violence that was bubbling up across the country along fault-lines of gender, caste, race and political allegiance, and something else, something more serious. On the final day at Jaipur, I listened as Nirupama Dutt, the poet and biographer, shared her memories of the murder of Pash, the Punjabi poet, in 1988, another era of turbulent change. I felt lucky to be on a session with Ashok Vajpeyi, Uday Prakash and CP Deval, to listen to them talk about what it meant to be a writer in a time of storms, how the writer’s responsibility was not separate from his or her duty as a citizen. In Jaipur, we spoke about the rise in defamation suits (48 filed in 2015), and what it meant for corporates and state governments to use this law to muzzle critics; about the contempt case against Arundhati Roy; about the rise in sedition cases (14 filed in 2015 against 35 respondents) making it a crime to question your country. Roy’s trials were bookended by the plight of other writers, journalists, environmentalists, that was how greatly the times had changed.

There are so many kinds of violence. There is the violence of the word that people fear because it holds up a mirror to what is happening in India today; there is also the violence of not listening to the words of those who have borne the harshest brunt of censorship, of dismissing their struggles and trials without giving them equal weight. Arundhati Roy is fighting a monstrous and unjust battle, but as people speak up for her, they must not erase the others who fight the same battle, too.

We would like to invite our readers to share their comments, opinions or community related story and we will printed in this Newsweekly as well as post it Online: www.voiceofasiaonline.com

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Surya Namaskar Yagna (Sun Salutations) 2016 Concludes by Aravind Modini Media Coordinator, HSS N oga (Surya Namaskar) marathons, presentations, pledges to stay fit during the rest of 2016 by hundreds of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) volunteers and yoga enthusiasts marked the concluding ceremonies of the 9th annual Surya Namaskar Yagna (SNY) - Health for Humanity Yogathon held at Parsippany, Edison, South Plainfield, Kendell Park, Princeton, Pamona on January 30th & 31st. Four, Six, twelve and twenty-four-hour yoga marathons were organized at several locations with volunteers including young children performing Surya Namaskars with great enthusiasm. HSS has been organizing the SNY since 2006 and this year the event was launched on Makar Sankranthi and ever since that day, people have been doing Surya Namaskars every day and keeping a count of them. HSS has been playing a big role in promoting this ancient yoga technique of Surya Namaskar that has immense health benefits to inculcate the habit of fitness among people of all age groups. Every year people spend hundreds of dollars trying to sign up for various health programs to stay fit but there is a simple and easy way to stay fit by doing Surya Namaskars, a form of Yoga postures that involves 10 simple steps and breathing and can be done by everyone with normal health. A six-hour marathon session was held in South Plainfield, NJ where hundreds of

Organizers of Surya Namaskar yagna.

Participants at the 9th annual Surya Namaskar Yagna

A six-hour marathon session was held in South Plainfield, NJ

volunteers participated and together performed close to five thousand (5k) Surya

Namaskars. Kids were a big attraction during this event and they did the yoga on par

with the adults. Speaking on this occasion Mrs. Namrata Dixit (physical therapist from

Central Jersey) stressed the need for keeping ourselves fit through-out the year and especially during winter. She stated that research has already proved that Surya Namaskars have great health benefits and it hardly 15-20 minutes a day to keep ourselves fit in this busy schedule. Not only do we burn calories but it is an easy and simple way to fight obesity and balance all the metrics of the human body. Surya Namaskars should be performed early in the morning for maximum benefit and they help us keep a balance of body, mind and spirit. Several kids asked her some interesting questions on the origin and the benefits of Surya Namaskars. In another event held in Edi-

son, NJ the chief guest Shri Upendra Chivukula (Commissioner NJ State Utility Board, Ex-Congressman and Deputy Speaker NJ General Assembly) lauded the efforts taken up by HSS in promoting Surya Namaskar for the benefit of the society and was pleased to see so many kids and adults enthusiastically performing Surya Namaskars. Shri Andhra Dev Ji (Senior Physics Professor/Principal, Prominent Yoga teacher from Hyderabad) also attended the program as a chief guest and elaborated the benefits of doing Surya Namaskar. The program concluded with everyone taking a pledge to continue doing Surya Namaskars during the rest of the year. Certificates of participation were given to kids who successfully did 2 sets (26 Surya Namaskars) a day from Jan 16th till 31st. Several temples and cultural organizations have extended their support for this campaign and also participated in this health of humanity program across several cities in New Jersey.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo sets the stage for 21 of music’s hottest stars to perform during the 2016 Show, March 1–20

OUSTON - “The variety in this year’s entertainer lineup makes it one of the most exciting in RodeoHouston history! These stars, as a group, have won everything from Teen Choice and Latin GRAMMY® awards to all of the country music honors,” said Joel Cowley, president and CEO of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. “And with our family friendly ticket pricing, our fans can enjoy the full spectrum of

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ISKCON of Houston presents an opportunity to meet HH Jayadvaita Swami Author of Vanity Karma: Ecclesiastes, The BhagavadGita And The Meaning Of Life scriptures and was intrigued by its basic question regarding the meaning of human life. At age 19 he discovered the teachings of Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad-Gita and felt that the Hindu teachings raised many of the same questions as Ecclesiastes. Since the 1960s, he has become a Hindu monk who continues to pursue the basic questions regarding human life and has travelled to numerous countries to teach and inspire people in ways of spirituality. He has published over 40 books in many different languages and has engaged with intercultural and interfaith scholars all over the world.

Richard M. Alderman Interim Dean of the Law Center

Gravel truck owner may be responsible for broken windshield Q. A gravel truck was driving past the entrance to the freeway when I entered. His wheel threw a rock that hit my windshield. My husband called and spoke with the company, who said it was not responsible. Who is at fault and how can I get reimbursed for my windshield? A. Based on what you say, no one is at fault, and you or your insurance company must pay to have the windshield repaired or replaced. For the company that owns the truck to have any liability, the accident must have been caused by its negligence. That means the driver did not take reasonable steps to protect you against flying rocks. If the truck, or another car, simply hits a rock on the road and flies into your windshield, there is nothing the driver could have done to prevent the problem. On the other hand, if the truck had an uncovered load of gravel and that is what broke your windshield, the company may be liable. The law requires that such loads be covered to prevent damage to other vehicles. The owner could be considered negligent in caring for the load if it was uncovered, and responsible for your broken windshield caused by the falling gravel. Q. Can I sue someone that agreed to pay a light bill that I put in my name? I agreed to put the service in my name for her apartment, and she agreed she would pay the bill. She has never paid the bill or paid me back when I had to pay it. I have no proof she agreed to pay, but I have proof I never lived with her.

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Swami Jayadvaita is a writer, editor, publisher, and teacher Ecclesiastes profoundly moved a young Jewish American boy, starting him on a quest for meaning that led him to the Bhagavad-gita, India’s preeminent book of wisdom. Today, after following the teachings of the Gita for more than forty-five years, that young boy, now grown old, looks deeply into Ecclesiastes again.

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He says, “As wisdom meets wisdom, as found in these two books – one biblical, the other from spiritual India – we see the daily issues of our world in a different way as we rise Cover of the book Vanity Karma above them to consider what life is for, what ultimate profit we can About Vanity Karma gain from it, what meaning, In Vanity Karma: Eccle- what happiness, what lasting siastes, the Bhagavad-gita, value. And as we read, we grow and the Search for the Mean- in wisdom ourselves.” ing of Life, a Jewish AmeriVanity Karma includes the can who has been a devotee of Krishna since the 1960s full text of Ecclesiastes in a explores the most essential modern English rendering with of all themes—the meaning an illuminating commentary on of human life. To do this he each verse. brings India’s most celebratThe plain-language commened spiritual classic into dia- tary is followed by meticulous logue with the most radically notes, making Vanity Karma powerful wisdom book of the valuable for the seeker, for the Hebrew scriptures. scholar, and for anyone who Ecclesiastes, “the strangest has ever asked, “What is the book in the Bible,” begins meaning of my life?” with the argument that our life on earth is pointless, that About the Author we spend it working hard for “vanity,” for nothing better As a young Jewish American than vapor—and then die and teenager, Swami Jayadvaita disappear into oblivion. was introduced to the book In the 1960s the themes of of Ecclesiastes in the Hebrew

He will be in Houston on February 18 to discuss his latest book, Vanity Karma: Ecclesiastes, the Bhagavadgita and the meaning of life, a book with a transcultural perspective on basic human questions. The event is a collaborative one by the Hare Krishna community and Grace Episcopal Church. Dr. Helen Rose Ebaugh, Professor of World Religions, University of Houston and a member of Grace Church will interview the Swami regarding his book at the Hare Krishna Temple and Cultural Center, 1320 W. 34th. St., Houston, TX. 77018 after which questions will be welcomed from the audience. The evening will begin at 6:00 p.m. with a tour of the temple and cultural center. From 6:30-7:30 the book discussion will be held in the temple, followed by a short dance performance “Vanity Karma” by Swathi Murali. This hour will provide an opportunity for Christians, Jews and members of all faith traditions to come together to learn more about the sacred scriptures of different religious traditions and to dialog about common themes. A vegetarian dinner will be served at 7:30. Pre-event promotion =: Until Feb. 10 - purchase your very own copy for $12 or $10 if you buy 2 or more. After Feb. 10th the prices will be $15 or $12 for 2 or more. For more information please visit www.iskconhouston.org Houston contact: Dr. Hansa Medley (713) 979-7698 dr.hmedley@gmail.com Please RSVP at: http://goo. gl/forms/kJiElzh9mY

Special Event: From Kingdom to Community: A Hindu Analysis of Ecclesiastes Join us for a discussion on interpretations of Ecclesiastes and the Bhagavad Gita in comparative context. Tuesday, February 16, 2016 45-7pm At the Rice - Boniuk University Kyle Morrow Room, Fondren Library RSVP at tinyurl.com/kingdomToCommunity Direction at boniuk.rice.edu/directionFondren

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VOICE OF ASIA 5

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

Pt. Jasraj, Dr. Renu Khator portray India’s culture at India House....... Continued from page 1 Indian in America and Indian with America. In the first phase she said she ate Indian food, listened to Indian music and virtually lived in a bubble that was ‘India.’ In the second phase when she joined college and graduated and later took jobs, “I became aware of the challenges,” she said. Like buying a home, schools for children and so on. “We were able to take the best of what America had to offer.” In the third phase, when she started showing interest in the issues, she took on leadership roles and was recognized by her peers and superiors who catapulted her to higher positions. It was her mother’s influence and the family values among other things that made her successful in what she did, Dr. Khator expressed. “If you forget where you come from, you don’t know where you are going,” was her message to take for the night. Welcoming the guests and the dignitaries India House president Dr. Manish Rungta said that 2015 was a good year for India House as it saw smooth progress in its major projects the Urban Youth Program, The Charity Clinic and Sareen Clinic and others activities like the Yoga, Meditation, Taekwondo, Cricket, Hindi languages and Culture of India. “India House’s mission is to unite cultures, create bridges, and serve the community by bringing resources, education, service, and Indian Culture to Houstonians,” Dr. Rungta said in his remarks. He also mentioned that he was looking forward to the second phase of the community center. Executive Manager, Col. (Retd.) Vipin Kumar reiterated India House’s mission by a video presentation. He also spoke enthusiastically about India House Cricket Club and the upcoming

India House president Dr. Manish Rungta receiving the Congressional Certificate from Congressman Al Green.

India House Executive Manager, Col. (Retd.) Vipin Kumar presenting his report onIndia House. Photos by Bijay Dixit. Cricket tournaments that India House would be hosting this year. India House Trustees honored Stephen J Spann, MD, MBA for his high accomplishments as a family physician, educator, researcher and global leader who currently serves as Chief Medical Officer of Tawam Hospital in the UAE. He gave a Special Presenta-

Pandit Jasraj seen performing with Pandit Suman Ghosh and CICMH musicians. Photo credit: Bijay Dixit.

tion on the importance of the Primary Health Care, “It should be a right not a privilege,” he said. He also mentioned that focus is on making the young medical students into becoming better primary health care workers. Pooja Lodia, ABC 13 Eyewitness News anchor who earlier introduced the living legend Pt. Jasraj and Dr. Renu Khator did a brilliant job as the Master of Ceremonies. Gopaal Seyn, renowned American contemporary artist made an on-the-spot painting that was later auctioned off as part of the fundraising effort. Raffle tickets for a necklace donated by Karat 22 jewelers were also part of the fundraising that night. North India specialties by Bombay Brassiere restaurant were served for dinner. Earlier, Congressman Al Green presented a Congressional Certificate to India House President, Dr. Rungta who also received a proclamation from Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee presented by her representative on the occasion. Event Chairs Mohit and Neha Agrawal proposed a Vote of Thanks at the conclusion of a wonderful evening of togetherness.

Event Chairs Mohit and Neha Agrawal addressing the audience.

Pratham USA president Ash Shah and wife Leena Shah at the event.

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VOICE OF ASIA 6

OBITUARY

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

Southwestern National Bank celebrates Chinese New Year

Dr. A. P. Raghuthaman – 1944 - 2016 Dr. Ayyam Raghuthaman, renowned Houston area gastroenterologist passed away suddenly on Feb 8, 2016 during a brief visit to Coimbatore, India to attend a reunion of his Madras Medical College graduate colleagues. He died of an apparent massive heart attack and had no known prior symptoms. His last rites will be done in Palakkad in Kerala. He was only 71 years old and seemingly in good health, leading an active life both professionally and socially. A graduate of the Madras Medical College, Dr. Raghuthaman practiced medicine in Tamil Nadu, India in several rural areas before proceeding to Birmingham and later Wakefield in the UK for higher education and training. He later migrated to the US for internship and residency in Internal Medicine at Northeast Ohio Medical College in Youngstown. He then completed a two-year Fellowship in Gastroenterology at the University of Texas at Houston in 1978, spending a year each at Memorial Herrmann and MD Anderson. An icon in his profession, he was a pioneer among Indian American doctors as independent practitioners and entrepreneurs in the Houston area, paving the way for many to follow suit. He was also a Clinical Assistant Professor in Medicine at the Baylor College of Medicine. He held numerous positions including Chairman of Credentials Committee, Chief of Staff, Chief of Quality Review among others. He was active in the Harris County Medical Society. He was a founding member and Medical Director of the Physicians Endoscopy Center. Raghuthaman believed that

patients should be actively involved in the healing process. An outspoken person himself, he encouraged open and frank discussions with his patients so that they will make informed decisions. Dr. Raghuthaman, “Raghu” as he was popularly known, was a community leader and a philanthropist. His father, Mr. CP Kelu Erady was an Indian Administrative Services officer, serving as district Collector in Tamil Nadu and a strong role model. Raghuthaman is a native of Kerala but was well immersed in the Tamil culture. He was at ease speaking both Malayalam and Tamil that he later reflected in his life in Houston. He was a life member of the Tamilbased Bharathi Kalai Manram as well as cultural organizations with Kerala leanings. His greatest contributions to the community came through the Meenakshi Temple Society (MTS) in Pearland. He was part of the Steering Committee that established MTS almost 40 years ago! He was a member of the very first Board of Directors of MTS and later served on several boards including as Chairman for two terms. He was also active at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston as a patron and supporter of Indian and other Asian arts. A devoted family man, Dr. Raghuthaman is survived by his wife Shantha, son Ramesh and his fiancé Lisa, daughter Thara and her husband Vikram Bala. The Raghuthamans have four grandchildren Sabrina, Isabella, Meghana and Rohan. Dr. Raghuthaman will be missed by his family, friends and the community. May his soul rest in peace.

Vandana Khera, M.D. joins Houston Methodist Primary Care Group

The Chinese New Year was celebrated at Southwestern National Bank on February 8, 2016, by its staff with the traditional and auspicious lion dance. Photo credit: Jacob David.

Seek Relief for Back Pain — Free Back & Neck Pain Seminar

UGAR LAND — (February 1, 2016) Your back is the powerhouse of your body. It gives strength to your movements and supports most of your weight. With these heavy demands, it’s no wonder the back is prone to injury and strain. Four out of five adults will experience at least one episode of back pain in their lifetimes. “Back pain is experienced by both the young and old, but the risk of developing it increases with age,” said Dr. Larry Tran, board-certified neurologist with Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Neuroscience & Spine Center. “Back ailments can stem from a variety of sources, including heavy lifting, improper sports or exercise techniques, sitting hunched over a desk or being overweight.” Conditions such as a herniated disc, muscle spasms, arthritis and scoliosis can also contribute to back pain. Depending on the source of your back problem, you may experience acute pain (lasting no longer than a few weeks) or chronic pain (lasting for months or years). “Whether your pain is intense or a slight throbbing, it’s important to seek a treatment option that’s right for you,” said Dr. Marvin Chang, board-certified interventional pain specialist with Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Neuroscience & Spine Center. Minor back ailments, primarily those associated with strains and/or spasms, can be successfully treated at home with a combination of hot and cold compresses, anti-inflammatory medications, and brief rest.

Dr. Vandana Khera, Primary Care

UGAR LAND — (January 30, 2016) — Houston Methodist Primary Care Group is pleased to welcome internal medicine physician Dr. Vandana Khera to the new Riverstone location. Khera joins Dr. Deepshika Sharda, at the practice located at 18717 South University Boulevard, Suite 105, where they will continue to provide quality primary care to patients in the Sugar Land and Missouri City communities. Khera earned her medical degree at Government Medical College in Patiala, India before completing both her internship and internal medicine residency at Roger Williams Medical Center in Providence, Rhode Island. She is board certified in internal medicine—treating a variety of acute and chronic conditions with special interests in geriatrics and endocrinology.

In addition to English, Khera speaks Hindi and Punjabi. Prior to joining Houston Methodist Primary Care Group, Khera practiced outpatient medicine at a physician led organization in Norwood, Massachusetts, where she collaborated with a multidisciplinary team to meet the health care needs of her patients. “I consider it an honor to be joining Houston Methodist Primary Care Group,” Khera said. “And I am fortunate that my patients trust me with their most valuable asset—their health. My purpose is to care for my patients’ physical and mental well-being by helping them achieve health goals through preventive care.” To schedule an appointment with Dr. Khera, visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg or call 713.394.MPCG (6724).

Dr. Larry Tran, Dr. Marvin Chang, and Dan Kershner, will present the latest information on non-surgical treatment options and address any questions you may have. Registration is required for free seminar “Although you may be tempted to spend a few days in bed recuperating, this isn’t the best solution,” said Dan Kershner, physical therapist at Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Neuroscience & Spine Center. “Studies repeatedly show staying active is a better road to recovery.” If your pain is severe or disabling, a spine specialist can perform an exam to determine the source of the discomfort and prescribe a treatment plan that may include physical therapy, injections or surgery to relieve pain. The main goal of treatment is to help you manage back pain so that it does not interfere with daily activities.

Four Steps to Prevent Back Pain: • Watch your weight. A few extra pounds on your frame can cause added stress on your back and muscles. Losing the weight in a healthy manner can help keep back pain at bay. • Stay active. Exercising regularly is the best way to keep your back in working shape. Strong, toned muscles support everyday movements. • Put out the cigarettes. Smokers may have more difficulty recovering from a back ailment because their oxygen levels are reduced. •

Be aware of how you

move. Your mother may have told you to “stand up straight.” That is good advice. Good posture, whether sitting, standing or lifting, keeps your back in alignment. At Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital’s Neuroscience & Spine Center, our board-certified physicians work together to provide comprehensive, personalized care, designed to help patients return to a productive lifestyle. We offer expedited appointments, including second opinions, with our highly regarded specialists. To schedule an appointment at our Neuroscience & Spine Center, call 281.274.7979.

DIASPORA

VOICE OF ASIA 7

Mexico: Sikh actor barred from flying to US ‘because of turban’ EXICO - 8 February 2016 - A Sikh actor has claimed he was barred from boarding an Aeromexico plane because of his turban. Indian-American Waris Ahluwalia, who is also a designer, said he was prevented from boarding after he refused to remove his turban in public. The incident happened during additional security checks before a flight from Mexico City to New York. Aeromexico said it had complied with security protocols and it regretted any “inconvenience”. He posted a picture of the ticket on his Instagram account. It carried an “SSSS” stamp, an acronym for Secondary Security Screening Selection, an airport measure that selects passengers for additional screening. The selection is said to be random. Mr Ahluwalia, who has appeared in The Grand Budapest Hotel and starred in a campaign for American clothing brand GAP, said he was on his way to New York Fashion Week.

Mr Ahluwalia pictured with his ticket showing the “SSSS” stamp denoting extra screening. Instagram.

In an interview with the New York Daily News, Mr Ahluwalia said he had complied with the additional checks but refused to remove his turban when he was asked by airline personnel to do so. “That is not something that I would do in public,” he was quoted as saying. “That’s akin to asking someone to take off their clothes.” Mr Ahluwalia added that when he said he would not take his turban off without going to a private room, he was told that he would not be flying and would have to book another flight. “I was shaking at first,” he told the News. “That’s not a nice thing to be told, that you are not allowed to fly on this plane because of something you are wearing, or because of your religious beliefs.” In a statement, Aeromexico said that he was asked to go through “screening and inspection before boarding, in strict compliance with TSA protocol” - a reference to the US Transportation Security Administration.

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

NRIs can purchase any house in India, rules NCDRC

EW DELHI (PTI | 8 Feb, 2016) - NonResident Indians, who return to the country “every now and then”, can purchase a house in India, the apex consumer commission has said while asking Supertech Ltd to pay around Rs 64 lakh to an NRI for denying possession of a flat in Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh.

the Bhagats approached the consumer commission for refund and damages, the complaint said. The firm had opposed the complaint seeking refund and other damages, claiming that the flat was booked in the name of Tarun, an NRI, and it was not for residing purpose but solely to earn profit and he could not claim to be a ‘consumer’ himself.

National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC), presided by Justice J M Malik, directed the firm to pay Rs 63,99,727 to south Delhi resident Reshma Bhagat and her son, Tarun Bhagat, who had booked a flat in the builder’s project in 2008.

The commission rejected the firm’s contention, saying “it cannot be made a ‘rule of thumb’ that every NRI cannot own a property in India. NRIs do come to India, every now and then. Most of the NRIs have to return to their native land. Each NRI wants a house in India. He (Tarun) is an independent person and can purchase any house in India, in his own name.”

The firm was scheduled to hand over its possession to the complainant in 2009 and when it did not construct the house,

India is 2nd largest sender of foreign students to US: Embassy official YDERABAD: Stating that there was no larger issue involved in cases of Indian students, mainly from Telangana and AP, who were sent back from the United States a couple of months ago, a senior US embassy official today noted that each of these cases should be looked at differently.

Michael Pelletier, Deputy Ambassador of US in Delhi, said the Indian students were welcome to study in America. “India is the second largest sender of foreign students to the United States,” he said. On being asked about the issue of Indian students being sent back on arrival from the US in recent times, he said they were “turned around” and not “deported”.

“When we saw the news about the students who were turned around, they weren’t deported but they were turned around....,” he told reporters here. Media reports had suggested that there were about 500 such cases but Pelletier said he did not have the numbers on those “turned around”. Asked what went wrong in the episode, he said, “Each is an individual case. What I can say is, as a general rule, the immigration officials, when you apply for permission to enter the states at the border crossing (whether that’s an airport or a port or land crossing), the border officials are going to want to hear your reason for study. They will look at your visa and they want to see the documentation that supports that.

“If there is some reason to believe that you are traveling on the wrong visa or that your purpose is not aligned with the visa, then they may have issues or they may not be able to admit you to the states...” There cannot be any generalised view on the students who were “turned around”, the US embassy official said. “Each decision is made on a case by case basis. The immigration officer will look at each person who is applying for admission into the United States as an individual. “I think if there is a larger conclusion--there are 1,30,000 people studying successfully in the US and contributing to the economy... But otherwise, for the people who were not granted admission, you would have to look at each case,” Pelletier

said. The official said the embassy worked with the Ministry of External Affairs, local governments in India and also the department of homeland security and US to figure out the issue following reports of Indian students being sent back. On reports of some students who were not granted admission being handcuffed in the airports, Pelletier said he cannot comment on specific cases. He, however, added that efforts are being made to see that those not granted admission are treated fairly. The US official noted the students who wish to study in America should follow the due process and complete the paper work. “So, I think each case (of stu-

dents not granted admission) is very different. But what we have found out and keep insisting is that as I said, we very much welcome the visit of bonafide students to the United States. Students who want to travel and study in the US should really take advantage of the education USA resources... “They should have the right purpose, the right documents, the right papers that support their desire to go to the states and I think education USA talks about a five-step process that they should go through. If you follow that process, you get the right information and you should not have any difficulty...,” Pelletier said. Those who have been “turned around” can apply afresh but it is a lengthy and expensive process, he added.

The NCDRC also rejected the firm’s claim that the complainants were offered an alternative flat but they rejected it and hence the complaint should be dismissed. “It is well settled that nobody can force anybody to accept the flat of the choice of the Opposite Party (firm). Any other flat cannot be imposed upon the consumers. They have got their free will to accept or reject the other flats offered to the complainants. It is difficult to fathom why the flat which was promised to be given to complainants, originally, was not given,” it said. According to the complaint, the complainants had made payment of Rs 63,99,727 to Supertech Ltd in 2008 for a luxurious flat which was to be built in Greater Noida and the flat’s possession was to be given by December, 2009. The firm, however, did not construct the flat and the complainants approached the commission seeking Rs 1.40 crore from the firm, including interest and damages.

COMMUNITY

VOICE OF ASIA 8

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

Fort Bend ISD students, accompanied by District leaders, immerse themselves in Chinese culture Participants gain rewarding experiences through the Fort Bend County Global Initiative

ORT BEND ISD – When two countries unite for the benefit of our youth, the results of the global partnership are beyond amazing – just ask the seven Fort Bend ISD students who recently experienced a cultural exchange with their peers from China’s Foshan #2 High School. The students received the opportunity of a lifetime as they traveled to China last month for a 16-day visit as part of a partnership between the Fort Bend County Global Initiative and FBISD. “The trip was phenomenal!” said Mason Hoover, student at Elkins High School. “The Chinese culture is very noticeable, and the hospitality is unmatched.” Hoover was one of seven FBISD students to take part in the Global Initiative program this year. Also participating were students Lillian Bajor (Ridge Point), Vianca Jimenez (Kempner), Morgan Joseph (Kempner), Charlene Mandimutsira (Clements), Alina Mawji (Hightower) and Jacob Stanley (Ridge Point). What may have seemed like culture shock for some was fully embraced by the FBISD students. They quickly immersed themselves in the Chinese culture by attending high school (dressed in uniform) and studying courses like physics and paper cutting, experiencing day-to-day living in a school dormitory, enjoying authentic meals, touring cultural landmarks, and visiting with a host family. “The things that impressed me the most were little things like the openness of the school and market, and how

the Chinese economy is based on an honor code,” added Hoover. “I was also pleased with how their billing works. They add in taxes and tips before you see the total price so you know exactly how much you’re paying for items.” Kempner High School student, Vianca Jimenez, was impressed with the landmarks the group visited during their visits to Hong Kong and Beijing, including the Big Buddha, the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City. “My favorite part of the trip was visiting the Big Buddha Statue,” she said. “It was amazing to see such a huge statue like that. I don’t think we have anything like that here at home.” The FBISD students were joined by FBISD Board Members Addie Heyliger, Jason Burdine and KP George, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Charles Dupre; Alison Wen, Chairman of the Fort Bend County Global Initiative Program, and FBISD campus staff members Lorelei Thorp, FBISD Global Initiative Program Coordinator and Group Leader (Kempner High School); Meng-Yu Wang, Dulles High School Chinese teacher; Corey Stewart, Dulles High School Assistant Principal; and Janis Longmire, Austin High School Associate Principal. The District leaders were particularly interested in the trip because it gave them an opportunity to observe our student exchange program in action, learn from educational leaders in China and Taiwan, and explore the possibilities that may exist for more students to travel to Asia in the future.

While in China, District leaders visited nine different high schools, paying close attention to the school dynamics, specifically the longer school days that allow a longer recess time and lunch break, testing as it relates to economically disadvantaged students, discipline, academic competitions, and extra-curricular and club activities. Board Member Jason Burdine said, “It [the trip] was a life-changing experience and a good opportunity to learn ways to improve our educational system, as well as for sharing ideas to benefit students in the schools the group visited.” “From the moment we arrived to the day we left, our days were filled with nonstop activities,” said Addie Heyliger, FBISD Board Member. “We were able to visit and experience different schools and visit with the Ministry of Education for both providences. In visiting the schools, we learned that kids are kids no matter where they are. Some don’t like doing math. Some are scholars. However, we found that there was an overwhelming pleasantry in the culture and disposition of their youth. Additionally, China’s commitment to success for all of their students is paramount in their methodologies and commitment to their students’ success.” Superintendent of Schools Dr. Charles Dupre agreed and said, “Education is valued around the world, and we are most certainly preparing our students to engage in a global level. I am thrilled that we are able to support our county’s efforts to build international part-

FBISD students and District leaders at various schools, landmarks and events during their study trip to China. nerships with our ‘sister cities’ while creating opportunities that will enable our students to develop as leaders and explore new worlds as we inspire and equip them to pursue futures beyond what they can imagine.” Global Initiative Program Coordinator and Group Leader Lorelei Thorp played a big role in facilitating the exchange program. “I had an amazing

experience leading such a great group of students,” she said. “They truly got into the experience, and were always willing to sample whatever food was placed in front of them or take part in all school activities. They all came back with a newfound appreciation of what they have. They also received a better understanding that students around the world are really not that different from them.”

Hello Namasthe!

“

Hello Namasthe” produced by Dr.Freemu Varghese for FREEDIA ENTERTAINMENT USA and directed by Jayan K Nair is a tale of friendship of two young men who are colleagues. Hello Namasthe belongs to the FEEL GOOD movie genre. Its a movie with a strong and positive message to the young and the old alike. The story reaches the audience clothed in subtle humour, satire and some drama. The veteran cinematographer P.Sukumar is the DOP. Vinay Forrt, who has risen to stardom with films like Premam and Kohinoor plays Madhav. 1983 and Nee Ko Nja Cha fame Sanju Sivram plays Jerry. The female leads are Bhavana (as Madhav’s wife Priya) and Miya (as Jerry’s wife Anna). Mukesh, Aju Varghese, Joju George, Soubin Shahir, KPAC Lalitha, P. Balachandran and Muthumani add sheen to the cast of Hello Namasthe. Hello Namasthe is a clean family entertainer that is sure to grip the home viewers. It has fun moments of friendship and family which will appeal to the young and the old alike. The film may has an ensemble cast of stellar actors that’s a combination of veterans and current favourites. The strength of the film lies in its plot which every member of the audience will relate to. It is a story that could happen in any neighbourhood thus making it very real and relatable. This very reason makes the story appealing to people of all

demographics, and not just the urban audience – although the film is set in an urban locale like Kochi. This is a formal overseas and outside Kerala rights proposal

on behalf of Team Hello Namasthe. An association with an oraganisation as esteemed as CARNIVAL CINEMAS, is a matter of pride and privilege to us. - Jayan K Nair, Director

Produced by Freemu and Rachel Varghese, releasing world wide 12 feb 2016

SOUTH ASIA

VOICE OF ASIA 9

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

Meteorite not responsible for Pakistan court to hear bid to rekilling man in India: NASA claim jewel from British crown

EW DELHI, AFP NASA on Wednesday said it was unlikely a meteorite was responsible for killing a man at a college campus in India last week, as local scientists continued to examine the mysterious object recovered from the scene. Authorities in southern Tamil Nadu state had claimed that a meteorite fatally struck a bus driver and injured three others on Saturday. After reviewing photographic evidence, the US space agency told AFP that they did not believe the object was a meteorite. “While more details are forthcoming from local scientists, this is unlikely something from space,” Dwayne Brown, a NASA spokesman, said in a statement.

ished their investigation yet. “To form a crater the size of what has been posted online would have required a meteorite of at least several kilograms,” he said. Local officials recovered a blue object, which was roughly smaller than an adult hand, near the accident site and claimed it had left a crater in the ground. The college also reported that buildings on the campus were damaged during the incident. Two days after the episode, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa Jayaram said the unknown object was a meteorite, triggering an international debate. G.C. Anupama of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, which sent a team to examine the object, said the group has not fin-

“The team has received a sample from the local police investigating the event. The nature of the object will be ascertained only after a detailed analyses by the experts,” Anupama, the dean of the institute, told AFP. Meteors are particles of dust and rock that usually burn up as they pass through Earth’s atmosphere. Those that do not burn up completely, surviving the fall to Earth, are known as meteorites. In February 2013 a meteorite plunged over Russia’s Ural Mountains, creating a shockwave that injured 1,200 people and damaged thousands of homes.

Wild elephant goes on rampage in Indian town

AHORE, AFP 2/10/2016 - A Pakistani court is set on Thursday to hear a petition asking Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II to return the Koh-i-Noor diamond more than 150 years after it was taken from Lahore by colonial forces. The 105.6 carat stone, which has also been claimed by a group of Indian businessmen in a separate court case, adorns a crown that was last worn in 1953 by Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother at the coronation of her daughter. Originating in the Golconda mines of central-southern India, it passed through the hands of conquering Mughal princes, Iranian warriors, Afghan rulers and Punjabi Maharajas before being surrendered by a young Sikh prince to Britain following the conquest of Punjab in 1849. Literally translated as “Mountain of Light”, the Koh-i-Noor was recut from its original 189 carats in 1852. It is currently on display in the Tower of London along with other precious ornaments that comprise Britain’s crown jewels. The Lahore High Court will

The Crown of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother, which contains the Koh-i-Noor diamond (AFP Photo/Michael Crabtree). Thursday hold a preliminary hearing into the case following a petition by Iqbal Geoffrey, a 76-year-old Anglo-Pakistani lawyer and abstract painter, whose work has appeared in the Tate Modern and who has been seeking the return of the diamond since 1958. “The Koh-i-Noor rightly belonged to Punjab province and was forcibly taken by the British from the local ruler and should be returned to Pakistan,” he told AFP, adding his case was fixed for Thursday after he overcome initial objections. His petition added: “Grabbing

and snatching it was a private, illegal act which is justified by no law or ethics. A wrong is a wrong. It does not become righteous or right by passage of time or even acquiescence.” India, Pakistan’s main rival, has also long claimed the diamond. Last November a group of Indian businessmen and a Bollywood actress said they would mount a legal bid in an English court and in the International Court of Justice. But Britain’s Prime Minister David Cameron told NDTV television in 2010 “It is going to have to stay put.”

Pakistan airline employees end strike

The wild elephant was tranquilised and captured by wildlife officials and transported to a forest near the Indian city of Siliguri (AFP Photo/Diptendu Dutta)page in Indian town

OLKATA, 2/10/2016 - A wild elephant went on an hours-long rampage in a town in eastern India on Wednesday, damaging about 100 homes, shops and other buildings, a state minister said. Photos showed the bewildered animal wandering around Siliguri, about 577 kilometres (360 miles) north of Kolkata, crashing into structures, as people scurried out of the way. “The elephant strayed from its herd and lost its way from

a nearby forest into Siliguri, creating panic in the town for nearly five hours,” West Bengal state forest minister Binay Krishna Barman told AFP by phone. “The animal knocked down nearly 100 houses and vehicles as it ran loose on the streets,” he said. People threw stones to try to drive away the elephant, before forest officials fired tranquillizer darts to bring it under control.

“It was transported to Sukna forest bordering Siliguri town,” the minister added. Siliguri, gateway to the hill station of Darjeeling, is teeming with elephants and some have been killed by trains while crossing tracks running alongside forests. Wildlife experts say the destruction of elephant habitats is a major reason for encounters between humans and the animals mostly in India’s rural areas

Former Nepal PM Sushil Koirala dies at 77 by Paavan MATHEMA

ATHMANDU, Nepal | AFP | Tuesday 2/9/2016 - Former Nepal prime minister Sushil Koirala, a veteran politician once jailed for helping to hijack a plane, died in Kathmandu Tuesday aged 77 after suffering from pneumonia, his doctor said. Koirala, premier for 20 months until last October, played a pivotal role in drafting a controversial new constitution aimed at unifying the impoverished country following the end in 2006 of a decade-long Maoist insurgency. He came in for heavy criticism for his government’s sluggish response to a massive earthquake that devastated the Himalayan nation last April and killed nearly 9,000 people.

Sushil Koirala, Former Nepal prime minister. Hindu monarchy to a democratic republic. But more than 50 people were killed in clashes between police and members of an ethnic minority protesting against the charter, which they say leaves them politically marginalised.

Koirala, who had battled chronic bronchitis and other illnesses, was diagnosed with pneumonia last week, his doctor Kabirnath Yogi told AFP.

The constitution’s adoption in September paved the way for parliament to elect a new premier and Koirala lost his bid for a second term to K.P. Sharma Oli.

“He was taking medicine and was even showing improvement yesterday. But at 11 last night his condition suddenly deteriorated,” said Yogi, an associate professor at Kathmandu’s Teaching Hospital.

Hundreds of tearful officials, ministers and opposition party lawmakers converged at Koirala’s house and at the Nepali Congress office to pay their respects.

He died shortly before 1am before the ambulance arrived, Yogi said. Koirala headed the country’s biggest political party, the Nepali Congress, and was tasked as premier with writing the long-delayed new constitution to complete a stalled peace process. The constitution, the first to be drawn up by elected representatives, was meant to bolster Nepal’s transformation from a

“He made an extraordinary contribution to Nepali politics,” Oli told reporters. “All Nepalis will remember his role in promulgating a constitution (and) establishing a federal democratic republic,” he said. - Boxes of cash A veteran politician, Koirala cultivated strong links with lawmakers in neighbouring India. He was once exiled there with his family for their oppo-

sition to Nepal’s then party-less “panchayat” system of local councils overseen by an absolute monarchy. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Koirala, describing him as “a big leader who served Nepal for decades”. “India lost a valued friend. Pained by his demise”, Modi also tweeted. Koirala was born in 1939 in eastern Nepal, but his family fled to India in 1960 after the then-king suspended democracy and jailed dozens, including some of his relatives -- one of whom was prime minister. When he was in his 30s, Koirala was involved in hijacking a plane believed to be carrying boxes of cash. He and his relatives wanted to use it to fund the Nepali Congress, a party long dominated by his family. He spent three years in an Indian jail over the crime, which was masterminded by senior Congress leader and relative G.P. Koirala. Koirala had a long history of poor health, undergoing radiotherapy for lung cancer in 2014 and surgery for tongue cancer 10 years ago.

ARACHI, AFP | 2/9/2016 - Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) employees Tuesday ended their nine-day long strike spurred by plans to privatise the national carrier, saying their representatives would immediately hold talks with the government.

Saleem Akbar (L) and Inayat Raza (R), the two PIA employees who lost their

Pakistan’s air- lives during the protest. ─ Photo courtesy: Twitter ports have been press conference in Karachi on stored on Tuesday. enmeshed in chaos nationwide since the strike Tuesday. In December, Islamabad ankicked off that grounded interBaloch also encouraged his nounced it would complete the national and domestic flights and left thousands of passen- colleagues to return to their partial sale of the carrier by jobs with “full commitment July, following years of crushgers stranded. and spirit”. ing losses and mismanagement that have battered the airline’s Last week, two employees He said his team was set to reputation. were killed and several others wounded at Karachi’s inter- travel to Lahore on Tuesday PIA, one of the world’s leadnational airport when clashes night to hold talks with Punjab broke out between security Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif, ing airlines until the 1970s, now the brother of Prime Minister suffers from frequent cancellaforces and staff. Nawaz Sharif. tions and delays and has been involved in numerous contro“We are calling off the strike A PIA spokesman said that versies over the years, includtoday,” Sohail Baloch, the chairman of PIA’s joint action more than 50 percent of the ing the jailing of a drunk pilot committee of employees, told a carrier’s operations were re- in Britain in 2013.

WORLD/US

VOICE OF ASIA 10

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

Admitting failings, Obama urges end to partisanship

PRINGFIELD, AFP 2/10/2016 Barack Obama returned Wednesday to the city where his White House journey began, making the case for less fractious politics while admitting he had failed to narrow the partisan divide. Making a nostalgia-laden trip to his old stomping ground in Springfield, Illinois, Obama decried “extreme voices” that have only grown more shrill during his presidency and in the race to succeed him. “We’ve got to build a better politics, one that’s less of a spectacle and more of a battle of ideas,” he told state legislators who were once his colleagues. It was in Springfield nine years ago to the day that Obama announced he was running for president. Then, the young raven-haired senator pitched himself, above all, as an outsider who could soothe divisive partisan politics. “You believe we can be one people, reaching for what’s possible, building that more perfect union,” he told the bundled-up crowd. Obama’s remarks were delivered from the same spot where Abraham Lincoln -- that great unifier -- declared “a house divided against itself cannot stand.” Nearly a decade on, Obama admitted the picture was grim. “The tone of our politics hasn’t gotten better since I was inaugurated. In fact, it’s gotten worse,” Obama said. “There is still this yawning gap between the magnitude of our challenges and the smallness of our politics.” Obama sought to recall his time in the divided Illinois state legislature when bipartisan bills could be passed. “We didn’t call each other idiots or fascists,” he said. But as if to reinforce the depth of current partisanship, Repub-

lican and Democratic lawmakers in the chamber applauded in party blocs when their pet issue was raised. At one point a clearly irked Obama declared: “sit down, Democrats!” Back in Washington, Republicans -- who now control Congress -- questioned why Obama had himself not acted in a more bipartisan manner and why he waited until the last year of his presidency to give the speech. They accuse him of governing

by “pen and phone” using executive orders to bypass congressional opposition and mustering partisan coalitions rather than reaching across the aisle. “The central premise of the Obama presidency was to unite the country, and that’s been an unquestionable failure,” said a spokesman for House Speaker Paul Ryan. - ‘Corrosive influence of money’ -Obama’s remarks came a day after voters in New Hampshire cast their ballots for the

next presidential nominees.

ger.”

participatory democracy.

On the campaign trail, Republicans and Democrats -- divided enough within their parties -have shed any pretense of working with the other side.

Obama also outlined measures that he said could ease the enmity, including to reduce the “corrosive influence of money in our politics”

“If 99 percent of us voted it wouldn’t matter how much the one percent spent on elections.”

But Obama tried to put today’s challenges in the context of past divisions and debates.

“I don’t believe that money is speech. Or that political spending should have no limits,” he said, backing a constitutional amendment to that end.

“Vice President Aaron Burr literally killed Alexander Hamilton in a duel,” he said, joking that Lincoln was described by foes as the “obscene ape of Illinois” and “a facetious pettifog-

He also called for an end to gerrymandering that makes electoral districts safe for one party or the other, and for more

But the realities of American politics remain stark, fundraising is essential and party turnout is often more important than winning over new voters. After leaving Springfield, Obama is set to jet to California for a series of Democratic fundraisers, where it is normally good for business to take a few jabs at Republicans.

S.African scrutiny over Zuma’s ties to Indian family An immigrant family that is one of South Africa’s wealthiest is in focus after accusations of wielding immense power behind the scenes by Sibongile KHUMALO

the Guptas.”

OHANNESBURG, South Africa | AFP | 2/10/2016 - Political scandals, huge economic deals and even extravagant wedding party controversies -- an immigrant family that is one of South Africa’s wealthiest is accused by critics of wielding immense power behind the scenes.

Public anger towards the family soared in 2013, when a large private jet carrying foreign guests to a Gupta wedding was granted permission to land at Waterkloof Air Force base, outside Pretoria.

The Guptas, an Indian family that moved to the country in the 1990s, are alleged to exert a magnetic pull over President Jacob Zuma, and their influence has increasingly become the target of government’s fiercest critics.

The wedding party did not go through immigration checks, and were given a police escort to the marriage at a casino resort 160 kilometres (100 miles) away.

To outsiders they may seem an industrious immigrant family that has made it big in their adopted country, but now their reputation is a key battleground in opposition efforts to oust Zuma from power. The family has built a string of South African companies controlled by brothers Ajay, Atul and Rajesh with interests in computers, mining, media and engineering.

The airport is a military facility that is normally used to receive heads of state.

The fact that several ministers attended the week-long lavish ceremonies fuelled further media and public antagonism towards the Guptas. Thousands of South African opposition Economic Freedom Fighter supporters protest over public money spent on President Jacob Zuma’s private house on February 09, 2016 in Johannesburg (AFP Photo/John Wessels) partner in some of their other businesses, while Zuma’s third wife Bongi Ngema was also a Gupta employee.

Zuma ferociously defends his friendship with the Guptas, and many of his ministers have various ties to the family.

“The Guptas are smart and shrewd business people and this can’t be a normal relationship,” political analyst Prince Mashele told AFP.

The president’s son Duduzane is a director of the Gupta’s Sahara Computers and is a

“There appears to be a Gupta hand in every business sector.”

Last week the radical leftist Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) opposition party put the Guptas at the centre of its campaign against Zuma ahead of municipal elections later in the year. - Political target -”We cannot allow a situation where South Africa is colonised by a family,” EFF leader Julius Malema raged, as he blamed the Gup-

tas for many of South Africa’s problems and demanded that they leave the country. “We will do to the Guptas what we did to the colonisers and apartheid,” he said. “The more we talk, the more they become corrupt and they do not care about South Africa. “We can no longer tolerate it. It’s a battle, it’s a war against

In another ongoing controversy, the Gupta-owned Tegeta Exploration and Resources company is in the process of acquiring a Glencore coal mine. The minister of mines, Mosebenzi Zwane, joined the firm’s delegation that visited Glencore’s headquarters in Switzerland last year to negotiate the sale. Zwane’s surprise appointment as mines minister in September was widely seen to have been due to the Guptas, with whom he has been close for several years.

ONLINE .COM voiceofasiaonline.com

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Lifestyle VOICE OF ASIA

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FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

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‘Manolos’ for the people? Luxury shoe designer opens up

A pair of pink heels created by Manolo Blahnik sat on display for an exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. — AFP photo. by Alfons LUNA ONDON - Could “Manolos” come to the high street? The legendary shoe designer Manolo Blahnik told AFP he could work with retailers such as H&amp;M and Topshop -- but only if they give him the creative freedom he needs.

“People say I need to do that, I need to do that, I really can do that. I can’t work that way.

“If I have freedom and no kind of conditions to do that or that, I would do it, with pleasure,” the 73-year-old Spaniard said at the opening of a new store in London’s luxury Mayfair district.

Blahnik’s designs have appeared on the feet of some of the most glamorous women in the world.

“I like my shoes to be outside there. Not copied, like in China, but the real thing!” said the flamboyant Blahnik, a close friend of the late Princess Diana who lives in Bath in southern England. Blahnik, whose designs were popularised by the US television series “Sex and the City,” has resisted the overtures of global fashion giants to stay independent -- and now has eight solo stores in Dubai, Hong Kong, London, Madrid, Moscow and New York. He said he would only stop being independent “after I drop dead,” adding: “I love freedom, I adore freedom of any kind.”

“It took me so long to live in my conditions,” he said in accented English.

Asked which celebrities had the best ones, he named actresses Raquel Welch and Brigitte Bardot but said he was disillusioned by modern-day stars. “They are not those great old stars that used to wear flat shoes and be so sexy,” said Blahnik, whose shoes can sell for more than $1,000 (916 euros) a pair. Blahnik decried the modern trend of women wearing trainers, saying they “could destroy” their feet. “But they say that about shoes all the time, that they destroy women’s feet. Nonsense!” - European tour -Born on November 7, 1942 in the Canary Islands, Blahnik is the son of a Czech father and

Maonolo Blahnik has resisted the overtures of global fashion giants to stay independent and now has eight solo stores in Dubai, Hong Kong, London, Madrid, Moscow and New York (AFP Photo/Amy Sussman). a Spanish mother and grew up on her banana plantation.

some of the British capital’s most expensive shops.

His parents wanted him to become a diplomat but US Vogue’s legendary editor Diana Vreeland steered him towards fashion design.

He faces some busy months with a new documentary on his life and an exhibition with 500 of his designs to be launched at the Venice Film Festival in September.

He said it would also travel to Prague, his father’s native city, and be displayed in the world-famous Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg.

“It’s going to be in the places of Europe that I love best. It’s going to end up in Spain, but first of all it’s go-

“Can you imagine? It’s a great privilege and I don’t know why. Because I do shoes, after all.”

Blahnik’s new store, which opened at a glitzy launch on Tuesday, is in the Burlington Arcade -- a gallery built in 1819 near Piccadilly Circus close to

ing to be in Venice because I worked in Venice for years and it’s the most beautiful city.”

Indian designer wins International Woolmark Prize

ashion designer Suket Dhir has bagged the International Woolmark Prize for menswear, becoming the second from India in four years to win the Rs 48.5 lakh worth prestigious prize. It’s a proud moment for India! Delhi-based designer Suket Dhir has won the International Woolmark Prize for menswear this year. What makes his win special is that he is second from India in four years to win the Rs 48.5 lakh (Australian $ 100,000) worth prestigious prize. Two years ago, designer Rahul Mishra scooped up the prize in the womenswear category. Suket Dhir beat five other international designers with a menswear collection (featured above) that fused classic western tailoring with traditional techniques, including Ikat (hand-tying and dyeing yarn) and Kasui (traditional hand embroidery), according to the report. More than 70 designers were considered for the prize over the past year with the finalists representing six global regions -- Munsoo Kwon (Asia), P Johnson (Australia), AGI & SAM (British Isles), Jonathan Christopher (Europe) and Siki Im (US). Following the award, the designer said, “This is certainly very overwhelming, and everything that I needed right now. I’ve done what I could in India, and this is the best thing that could happen to me for me to move in a bigger way. “I think I’m ready for the world, and I also think the world is ready for me and for this kind of aesthetic. The look is easy and happy, and the world needs that right now.” “My collection explores the transseasonal aspects of wool and the al-

Suket Dhir receives ‘The International Woolmark Prize’ for his menswear collection on January 13, 2016 in Florence, Italy Photograph: Stefania D’Alessandro/Getty Images. chemic transformation of the fibrous wool into smooth, silk-like yarn, which renders the fabric light, airy, fluid and yet full and supple,” Dhir added. For the judging panel, Dhir was a unanimous decision. “In fashion, I’m always looking for emotion, or the heartbeat, for the feeling that something excites me – it may come from an ancient skill but it seems fresh to me,” said Suzy Menkes, International Editor, Vogue, of Dhir’s collection. Designer Haider Ackermann agreed. “For me, it wasn’t a hard decision,” he said. “Suket is a person with a dream to tell, and I thought that it was very

beautiful, because fashion at this time is about a dream, and the rest – the business – will follow. And technically, he showed us details I’ve never seen before, and that’s very impressive.” Dhir is passionate about the fabric he uses and is very clear about what he wants from his creations. He likes to play with cotton, linen, mulmul and silk. In fact, during the launch of his linen lineup for Raymond India in Goa in March 2015, the designer had shared his love for vintage fashion. He’d said: “I’m strongly inspired by

A model showcases a Suket Dhir creation as part of ‘The International Woolmark Prize’ Men’s Fashion Show on January 13, 2016 in Florence, Italy. Photograph: Stefania D’Alessandro/Getty Images. the fashion of the 50s, 60s and 70s. I like everything about vintage fashion -- the prints, the experimentation, accessories, the cuts and bold, brave colors.” When it comes to fashion, he believes that “less is more” -- a trait that translates into his creations. “For a designer, the process of elimination is very important -- you need to know what to keep and what to let go. Combined with the right accessories, there is immense potential in apparel designing,” he added. Following his win, his designs will now be stocked in some of the world’s most prestigious stores including Saks Fifth Avenue (New York), David Jones (Australia), 10 Corso Como (Milan), Isetan Mitsukoshi (Japan), and Boon

The Shop (South Korea). Back home in India, Dhir has styled Indian celebrities like Hrithik Roshan, Varun Dhawan, Farhan Akhtar, Ranveer Singh and Nawazuddin. The secret recipe Ask him what is his secret to success? He says, “I don’t believe in hard work. I believe in smart work. If you are smart, you can optimise your work hours and use it to create winning creations.” In his parting advice to young designers, he said, “Before you set to do anything, research well and be self critical.” Courtesy: Rediff.com With inputs from PTI

LEISURE

VOICE OF ASIA 12

BOOKS:

Turiya Tales: Lost Wisdom of The Swastika

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

Indian author Anuradha Roy wins DSC Prize for Sleeping on Jupiter January 16, 2016 PTI - Indian writer Anuradha Roy on Saturday won the prestigious $50,000 (Rs 33.89 lakh) DSC Prize for South Asian Literature for her novel Sleeping on Jupiter at the Galle Literary Festival in Sri Lanka. The six shortlisted authors in contention for this year’s prize were UK-based Indian-origin author Akhil Sharma for Family Life, K R Meera’s Hangwoman (Translated by J Devika), Mirza Waheed’s The Book of Gold Leaves, Neel Mukherjee’s The Lives of Others and Raj Kamal Jha’s She Will Build Him A City.

Ajay Chaturvedi. Photo: twitter.com Title: Turiya Tales: Lost Wisdom of The Swastika

Mark Tully, the chair of the judging panel described Roy’s novel as having described “the South Asia setting faithfully and evocatively.”

Author: Ajay Chaturvedi No. of Pages 214 About the Book Written as a work of fiction but based on a true account, this is an engaging story of a man trying to find himself. Following an enormous personal tragedy, a seemingly happy and successful investment banker sets out on an introspective journey to the Himalayas. He is questioning the purpose of life when he comes across a mysterious 110-year-old man. Thereby starts a journey of learning, unlearning and unraveling the secrets of ancient Indian wisdom that teach you how to live a blessed life. Among them, is the quest to find the inner Swastika - one that holds the truth of the physical, the meta-physical and beyond. About the Author Honored as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, Ajay established HarVa (harnessing value of rural India) in the year 2010. HarVa is a start-up that creates value in rural areas by providing opportunities to rural women, youth and farmers. Ajay’s journey, from a management consultant and a banker in the United States to a social entrepreneur in India, is an interesting one. Having found the purpose of his life in the Himalayas, he came back to set up farms in his hometown Dehradun, Uttarakhand and in Sohna, Haryana. Thus came HarVa. Ajay has been lauded for his work both nationally and internationally. An alumnus of BITS Pilani, SEAS and The Wharton School of The University of Pennsylvania, Ajay likes to spend time in the Himalayas, when not working. Publisher Times Group Books A note from the author… During my initial days in the US, I was warned over a Swastika on my T-shirt. A symbol so sacred in the country I came from, my Janmabhoomi, attracted such

Cover of the book Turiya Tales: Lost Wisdom of The Swastika disgust in the country of my work, my karmabhoomi. It was bewildering. Little did I realize then, that I’d write a book on it, someday! A lot of water has flowed under the bridge, since. I was disillusioned by the unilateral focus on profitability in the corporate world; social responsibility was just an afterthought. A sequence of events starting from the dot-com bust in early 2000s to the Great Recession of 2008, along with setbacks in personal life, led me to the Himalayas. Himalayas and Maharajji taught me a lot. The more one looks around; the more one realizes that the majority of the conflicts around the world, be they individual or collective, embody the tussle between knowledge and wisdom. We would experience eternal bliss if only we could find ourselves; if our internal awareness overcame the constant pressure to forcefully adjust to our manufactured environments.

“We chose Sleeping on Jupiter by Anuradha Roy because of its elegance, flair and readability. It raises many issues succinctly and with commendable economy of words,” Tully said. “Among the issues raised are the power of memory and myth, religious hypocrisy, sexuality, abuse and other forms of violence. The novel contains powerful portraits of both major and minor characters. We believe this book will be a source of inspiration to other writers.” he added. While presenting the trophy to the winner Wickremesinghe, commented on the importance of South Asian lit-

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Roy is an award-winning novelist, journalist and editor. Her first novel, An Atlas of Impossible Longing has been translated into fifteen languages across the world. PTI

The latest lifestyle craze, adult coloring books, lets buyers choose from Sanskrit patterns, urban landscapes, butterflies and flowers all offering “stress relieving patterns” (AFP Photo/Jewel Samad).

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This year prize had received 74 entries with participation from publishers across the South Asian region and from countries like the UK, US, Canada, Australia and South Africa amongst others.

At this important juncture of social, economic and political Indian and world history, Turiya Tales will, I believe, help us to make sense of our world - understand it and possibly even build on it. The wisdom of the Swastika is an immensely powerful tool that has the potential to change lives. I know it changed mine! And so, here, I share it with you in the hope that together we can deploy it to make our world more peaceful, more habitable and more safe.

Youngest Astrologer of North America

Now in its sixth edition, the DSC Prize for South Asian Literature is an established international literary prize that awards the best work in South Asian fiction writing each year.

The past five winners of the prize include Jhumpa Lahiri (The Lowland), Cyrus Mistry (Chronicle of a Corpse Bearer), Jeet Thayil (Narcopolis), Shehan Karunatilaka (Chinaman) and HM Naqvi (Home Boy). Each of these winners has gone on to be published internationally.

Adult coloring book craze booms in US

by Brigitte DUSSEAU

erature and the crucial role it can play to improve the lives of the people living in the region.

Turiya is the fourth state of consciousness beyond waking, dreaming and dreamless sleep. The Swastika symbolizes that four dimensional space that can be experienced. The reason I wrote this book, as a fictional account is to make it a light reading and spark curiosity in people. Unless we are inquisitive, we might lose the wisdom entirely.

Read HOROSCOPE by Hardik Vyas Visit www.voiceofasiaonline.com

Roy was awarded the prize and a unique trophy by Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe at a glittering ceremony on Saturday evening.

Science of Nature, not related with any religion, caste, or community. It is an Occult Science and gift of nature for the welfare of people to get proper advice.

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o l o ring to combat stress? You’re not alone. Intricate adult coloring books are the latest lifestyle craze to grip the United States, generating millions of fans, booming sales and libraries falling over themselves to host workshops. Walk into any New York bookstore, and you’ll find them artfully laid out on tables or filling entire shelves. Buyers can choose from Sanskrit patterns, urban landscapes, butterflies and flowers all offering “stress relieving patterns.” The latest fashion? The swear word version. Amazon sells hundreds of them, including nine on the top 20 bestseller list. Fans post their finished designs and swap tips on Facebook or Pinterest. Dover Publications, which prints dozens of coloring books, decreed August 2 as National Coloring Book Day,

sponsoring parties and hosting an online group discussion board for tips on how to throw a successful bash at home. “It calms us down to be coloring,” Linda Turner, a licensed creative arts psychotherapist in Manhattan, explained of the trend born in Europe. “If you are really with it, if you are really in the presence of coloring the colors and just being with the art, it is a wonderful way to support calming and presence and relaxation,” she told AFP. Turner said that while children are willing to explore and experiment, adults are not necessarily so comfortable with their creativity. “These coloring books, they look adult, they look sophisticated... and they are going to create, and they are going to be present in the moment and have fun... In ways that are safe for them,” she added. Since October, 19 branches of the New York Public Library in Manhattan, the Bronx and Staten Island have run coloring workshops, some on a weekly basis. “We are providing the space and the material and that allows the patrons to socialize with their friends, or meet people that they would never have met before, or do an art work as a group,” said Kelly Yim-Foulke, adult programming specialist at the New York Public Library. She says coloring is easy to do, requires no particular talent and brings back “very fond memories” of being a child. - Therapeutic value -Most of those who take part are senior citizens and women, but coloring lends itself to inter-generational projects that bring together adults, teenagers and children, she said. Yim-Foulke is thinking about extending the program and including

music, or perhaps putting on an exhibition. “For patrons, it’s low key, you don’t need a high level of skills to participate. It is also a great opportunity for intergenerational programs... and it doesn’t cost a lot of money for the library to host, which is excellent.” Turner is thinking about getting together with colleagues to create “pop-up bars” -- temporary spaces where people can color for free and meet art therapists. “There is a healing and therapeutic value, because when you are in the process of doing this creation, you are relaxing and de-stressing,” she said. “It makes you feel more open and more alive, so the stress reduction aspect of it is therapeutic, but it is not therapy.” The trend has extended beyond America’s entertainment capital. In Petoskey, a small town in Michigan, the library has just launched a weekly coloring session on Tuesday evenings. “We thought it could be fun to attract people to the library doing different things,” director Val Meyerson told AFP. It is not the first time the United States has fallen in love with adult coloring books. The first of these, “The Executive Coloring Book,” came out in 1961. It was followed by “The John Birch Society Coloring Book” and other satirical titles, mocking the world of work, or president John Kennedy. Back then, fighting stress was not the point. Even so, The New York Times predicted the profits to be made from these books of black and white line drawings, often printed on cheap paper but with the power to fire the imagination.

VOICE OF ASIA 13

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

VOICE OF ASIA 14

Section 2

Young Life

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

Tel: 713-774-5140

Multi-Faith Leaders Join Forces to Address Domestic Violence Among Youth AVDA and The Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council provide crucial training HOUSTON, TX – Feb. 5, 2015 – Faith leaders play a key role in educating youth about healthy relationships and dealing with abuse. AVDA (Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse), a non-profit that provides life-saving services to victims of abuse and their families, and HCDVCC (Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council), an organization that works to increase communication and build cooperation among the agencies who respond to victims of domestic violence, hosted Helping Youth Create Healthy Relationships: A Multi-Faith Workshop yesterday at Interfaith Ministries Event Center. More than 60 spiritual and religious leaders, lay leaders, pastoral counselors, clerics and domestic violence advocates gathered to explore the topic of healthy relationships among youth, as well as gain tools and resources to prevent sexual, physical, emotional and spiritual abuse in teen relationships in order to end the cycle of violence. The main speaker for the event, Barbie Brashear, Executive Director of HCDVCC, encouraged dialogue in faith communities about these difficult topics and provided practical action items for attendees, such as using technology as a tool for educating children and teens about how to handle abusive situations they may come across.

intimidation, etc.” Brashear also emphasized the intimidation tactic of today’s society – cyber stalking, overprotective texting, paranoid monitoring of social media – it all plays into manipulation that a partner can use to control a victim of abuse, and it’s becoming more common in teens, and even middle schoolers. She said, “This is happening to our youth…. You need to be involved, be supportive, and do something about it. The biggest goal of the workshop was to make sure the faith community is connected to DV service providers and building those relationships.” AVDA CEO Sherri Kendall stated, “AVDA knows that faith leaders are often first responders in domestic abuse cases, and with proper training, can be well positioned to help guide youth to safety. Today is about providing the tools to help them instill in youth beliefs which promote healthy relationships, and in knowing what to do when abuse has already occurred. It was inspiring to watch members from the Christian, Muslim, Hindu,

Barbie Brashear, Executive Director of HCDVCC was Keynote Speaker for the event.

Reverend Steve Quill oversees ministry at the Living Word Lutheran Church and has been a member of the multi-faith Advisory Council, which has provided two local forums for collaboration among faith leaders in Houston to broaden their knowledge regarding domestic abuse. Quill believes that a big problem right now is how out-of-touch parents are with the younger generation. He said, “I think most adults/parents are not in tune with the means of communication their children are using today. Young people are growing up, as we all did, and they are vulnerable in the same way all teens have been, but they are very easily connected to unhealthy relationships via the internet. We often hear horror stories, but there are many stories we never hear, and yet, teens are experiencing many kinds of abuse: emotional, physical,

Connecting with the younger generation is vital.

The Multi-Faith Workshop was to promote healthy relationships among youth.

Jewish and Buddhist communities hold hands, both literally and figuratively, in addressing this issue.”

The workshop was guided by a multi-faith Advisory Council that includes: Elsa Aguilera- Associate Director, Family Life Transitions; Barbie Brashear- CEO, HCDVCC; Harish

This is the second event in a series of multi-faith domestic violence train-

ings offered by AVDA and HCDVCC, and media are encouraged to attend to help increase community awareness about issues of domestic abuse, sexual assault and dating violence.

Bone tests can ruin migrant kids’ Europe chances: study

ARIS | AFP | 2/8/2016 Among the refugees arriving on Europe’s shores seeking sanctuary from war, poverty or persecution, many are children -- often orphaned, alone and without official papers. Once they get there, the older ones may be subjected to physical assessments to determine whether they are in fact still children who qualify for certain rights. The problem is, the tests are flawed, a biologist alerted Monday in the journal Annals of Human Biology. Many minors risk being wrongly classified as adults.

already by the age of 16-and-a-half, he said. Conversely, about one in five are not yet “skeletally mature” by the age of 18. “Thus a decision based on adulthood being defined as the attainment of full skeletal maturity condemns those skeletally advanced 16- and 17year-olds to laws governing adults, and those skeletally delayed 18-yearolds to laws governing children,” Cameron wrote.

Using a physiological measure to determine an asylum-seeker’s age, and thus their fate, “is inappropriate at best and simply wrong in over one third of assessments,” he added. In Britain alone, there were 2,168 asylum applications from unaccompanied children in the year ending in June 2015, said the article -- some eight percent of the total applications submitted in that period. Age assessments were carried out in

“Figures similar to these can be found in most countries of the European Union,” wrote Cameron. Almost all, he added, used skeletal maturity tests as the main age gauge of migrant asylum-seekers. “It is scientifically indefensible to ignore the known imperfect association between maturity and age in order to decide who will, or will not, be granted the opportunities afforded by asylum in Europe,” said Cameron. The alternative?

“The discrepancy, no matter how small, has life-changing consequences,” said Noel Cameron of the Loughborough University in England.

“Chronological age is not a biological variable. It is a social construct relating to behavioural maturity and thus behaviour ought to be the core target of assessment,” the biologist told AFP by email.

A mistake “results in the loss of any access to rights and privileges afforded to children, including housing and foster care, and may lead to repatriation and continued persecution.”

According to the UN refugee agency, more than 74,000 migrants have already arrived in Europe by sea this year from countries like Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq, many risking their lives in dangerous vessels operated by people smugglers.

Cameron pointed out flaws in the socalled “skeletal maturity” assessment of the hand and wrist bones of teenagers, used by many European countries to determine the age of those without papers. On average, about 50 percent of European boys have adult skeletons

488 cases, of which 58 percent resulted in an adult classification, though it is impossible to know how many would have been wrong.

A refugee gives his fingerprint at a registration centre in Heidelberg, western Germany (AFP Photo/Uli Deck).

Last year, the total was over a million -- almost a third of them children.

Chandra, Arya Samaj of Greater Houston; Shariq Ghani, Muslim community activist; Rabbi Steven M. GrossHouston Congregation for Reform Judaism; Gregory Han-Director of Interfaith Relations, Interfaith Ministries; Bincy Jacob-Executive Director, Daya Houston; Sherri Kendall-CEO, AVDA; Mindy Lawrence- Reverend/ Associate Minister, Unity Church; Sushma Mahajan, Reverend Steve QuillLiving Word, Katy; Amy Smith- Deputy Director, HCDVCC; and Dr. Vern Swisher- CEO, Career and Recovery Resources. Visit www.avda-tx.org for more information and connect with us on Facebook and Twitter. About AVDA Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse (AVDA) has served the Houston community for 35 years to end violence in families by advocating for the safety and self-sufficiency of battered individuals, promoting accountability for those who batter, and fostering a coordinated community response to domestic violence. AVDA provides direct services to families victimized by domestic violence, such as education and legal representation to individuals impacted by violence, battering intervention and services for individuals who commit violence, and educational curriculum to prevent violence in the future. Visit www.avda-tx.org for more information and connect with us on Facebook and Twitter. About HCDVCC The Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council (HCDVCC) was formed in 1996 to increase communication and build cooperation among the agencies who respond to victims of domestic violence.

VOICE OF ASIA 15

Section 2

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

B ollywood M asala Bollywood Masala

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Indian filmmaker battles taxman over ‘evil’ gay movie and gays regularly suffer harassment and violence.

by Rajesh Joshi

hmedabad, India | AFP - When Kiran Kumar Devmani decided to make a film about homosexuality, he braced for a fight with India’s notoriously conservative censors, but he never imagined he would have to battle the tax office.

“The arguments by the state government for not granting tax relief reflects their attitude towards gays in our society,” he said. The tax office declined to comment to AFP, saying the matter is sub judice.

Three years after finishing the project, Devmani is still embroiled in a struggle with tax bureacrats who claim his film could provoke a law and order problem in India where gay sex is a criminal offence. “What is controversial about homosexuality?” Devmani, an ayurvedic doctor-turned filmmaker asked in his small office in a shopping mall in the western city of Ahmedabad. “My film does not have a single scene where gay men are shown even holding hands. The film is basically about the struggles of homosexual men in society in different stages of life,” the 30-year-old told AFP. Like all filmmakers, Devmani wants a tax exemption for his independent movie before its release, an application that is routinely granted to avoid artists losing money on their projects. But the government in Gu-

But it has argued in court that the film “promotes” an illegal activity “which is also a social evil” and should therefore be denied exemption from entertainment tax. It also says the film could disturb law and order by fostering friction between those who support and those who oppose homosexuality. Indian gay rights activist, Prince Rajpipla Manvendra Singh Gohil, pictured after watching a film on homosexuality, ‘Meghdhanushya - Colour Of Life’, during its premiere in Gandhinagar, near Ahmedabad (AFP Photo/Sam Panthaky). jarat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s home state, has knocked back his request on the grounds that “Meghdhanushya - The Colour of Life” could send a “negative signal” that the administration endorses “such ideology”. India’s film censor board has already approved the film, giving it an Adults Only rating, and the Gujarat High Court has ruled in Devmani’s favour over

the exemption. But the government has dug in its heels, appealing the ruling to the Supreme Court, a lengthy process in India’s notoriously clogged legal system.

The review by a special bench of judges sparks hope among campaigners that the colonialera legislation which enables homosexuals to be jailed will eventually be overturned.

Devmani’s fight comes as India’s gay community this week celebrated the Supreme Court’s decision to review the national law banning gay sex that dates back to the 19th century.

- ‘Ignorance of gays’ -The announcement is small comfort for Devmani who says he is being victimised in a socially conservative country where homophobic tendencies abound

Crew grounded over Bollywood crooner’s mid-air concert

Devmani has won the backing of gay groups and Gujarat’s openly gay prince, Rajpipla Manvendra Singh Gohil, who says more such films should be encouraged to educate society about gays and lesbians. Gohil, the descendant of a centuries-old royal family in Rajpipla, a former princely state in Gujarat, narrates sections of Devmani’s film. The 50-year-old was shunned not just by his local community but by his own family when he

first came out and is now committed to fighting the spread of HIV/AIDS through his charity. “There is no obscenity or vulgarity in Devmani’s film,” said Gohil. “I believe the entertainment tax officers need to be educated on the issue. They seem to ignorant about homosexuals,” he told AFP. Few films have tackled attitudes towards homosexuality in India where Bollywood often ridicules gay characters and portrays them as being extremely camp. But “Aligarh”, a Bollywood flick based on a true story that deals with homophobia, was warmly received when it was released last year. Devmani said he is being worn down by the battle and will probably go ahead and release the Gujarati-language film without exemption from the levy -- a stiff 25 percent tax on box-office receipts. “I will wait for the next six months and then release the film even if the exemption is not granted,” he said. The filmmaker plans to forge ahead with movie making despite the controversy, with two Hindi-language films in the pipeline.

Gurinder Chadha says Viceroy’s House ‘subverts’ genre

Gurinder Chadha’s film Bend It Like Beckham also became a West End musical Indian Bollywood playback singer Sonu Nigam performs at a festival in Mumbai, in 2014 (AFP Photo/-) EW DELHI - India’s Jet Airways has grounded five crew members for allowing a Bollywood singer to perform over the in-flight announcement system, an airline spokesman said Friday, prompting a social media backlash against the decision.

The temporary suspension of the crew comes after a video showing singer Sonu Nigam’s impromptu performance last month went viral, prompting an investigation by authorities. “All cabin crew on the flight have been taken off from flight duty for enquiry and corrective training to reinforce strict adherence to operating procedures,” a Jet Airways spokesman said in a statement.

The video showed the celebrity singer crooning to charttopping Bollywood songs with other passengers joining in on a chartered flight from the western city of Jodhpur to Mumbai on January 4. Following its probe, government officials asked the airline to take action against the cabin crew for violating regulations and misusing the in-flight announcement system. The crew’s suspension was trending in India on Friday with Twitter users lashing out at the authorities for suspending the crew. “Never knew Sonu Nigam would be such a bad music to ears of Jet Airways. Suspending 5 lovely ladies for good sense of music.. Seriously??,” user

Yashwant Deshmukh tweeted. “Wah! He made the passengers smile.. and jet airways suspended the crew.. great!! Get well soon Jet Airways,” tweeted Sana Sheikh. However, many netizens supported the carrier’s decision, saying such actions could jeopardise flight safety. “I’m glad @jetairways has suspended [its] crew for allowing Sonu Nigam to ‘misuse’ the announcement system. It is unacceptable &amp; dangerous,” tweeted Tehseen Poonawalla. In 2014, Spice Jet, another private airline, suspended cabin crew and two pilots after a video went viral, showing the staff dancing in mid-flight to celebrate the Hindu festival Holi.

by Tim Masters, BBC india ilm-maker Gurinder Chadha says her new film “subverts the genre” of movies about the British Raj. Viceroy’s House, a period drama about the partition of India, stars Hugh Bonneville and Gillian Anderson as Lord and Lady Mountbatten. Chadha shot the film last year in the Indian city of Jodhpur. She hopes it will be released in cinemas to coincide with the 70th anniversary of partition in 2017. “I’m so pleased with it,” Chadha told the BBC. “It’s proper epic. It’ll be the first British Raj film made by a

British Indian. “It looks and feels like a British Raj movie but people suddenly start saying things and you think ‘hold on - I’ve not had that perspective before’. It slightly subverts the genre.” Made with backing from BBC Films, Pathe and the BFI, the cast also includes Simon Callow, Manish Dayal, Sir Michael Gambon, Om Puri, Huma Qureshi and Lily Travers. Chadha, best known as the writer and director of Bend It Like Beckham, hopes to finish editing the film this summer. She said the story shows the Mountbattens as they work

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out the details of Indian independence alongside a love story about a Hindu who is in love with a Muslim translator teaching the Mountbattens’ daughter. “It’s also based on my family who were all refugees in 1947,” Chadha said. “I’m Punjabi and my ancestral home is now Pakistan - so it’s a very personal story about my grandma and my uncles and aunts who were all refugees at that time.” Mountbatten served as the last Viceroy of India, overseeing the British withdrawal. On 15 August 1947 British India was partitioned into the new states of India and Pakistan, resulting in widespread inter-communal violence.

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HEALTHY LIVING VOICE OF ASIA

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Bananas may help detect, cure skin cancer: study

US urges condom Prescription drug prices jumped more use or abstinence to avoid Zika virus than 10 percent in 2015, analysis finds by Kerry SHERIDAN

IAMI, | AFP | /5/2016 - US health authorities on Friday urged people to use condoms or refrain from sex if they live in or have traveled to areas where the Zika virus is circulating. The new interim guidelines from the US Centers from Disease Control are aimed at pregnant women and their partners, and at people of childbearing age who are concerned about Zika, a primarily mosquito-borne virus which has been linked to birth defects.

Scientists find that the black spots on old banana peels may unlock a faster, easier diagnosis of human skin cancer. Photo credit: THINKSTOCK.

ARIS, France | AFP | The black spots on old banana peels may unlock a faster, easier diagnosis of human skin cancer, boosting survival chances, scientists said Monday.

According to the American Cancer Society, people have a 10-year survival rate of 95 percent if the melanoma is detected in stage 1 -- falling to 43 percent by mid-stage 3.

When bananas ripen, their skin is covered in small, round black spots caused by an enzyme known as tyrosinase.

The team developed a scanner and tested it on banana peel spots -- which are roughly the same size as melanoma spots on human skin.

The same enzyme is present in human skin, and in greater quantities in people suffering from melanoma -- a potentially deadly form of skin cancer.

“By working with fruit, we were able to develop and test a diagnostic method before trying it on human biopsies,” team leader Hubert Girault said in a statement.

A team of scientists used this observed commonality to build a cancer scanner, which they then refined and tested at length on banana peels before moving on to human tissue.

The scanner has eight flexible microelectrodes, spaced like comb teeth, that pass over the skin to measure the quantity and distribution of tyrosinase.

First, researchers at the Laboratory of Physical and Analytical Electrochemistry in Switzerland concluded that the enzyme is a reliable marker of melanoma growth.

“This system could obviate the need for invasive tests like biopsies,” the team said.

In the earliest stage 1 of cancer, the enzyme is not very apparent, becoming widespread and evenly distributed in stage 2, and unevenly distributed in stage 3 -- by when the cancer has started spreading to other parts of the body. The earlier the cancer is detected, the greater the chances of survival.

Girault believes the scanner could be used one day to destroy tumours, hopefully rendering biopsies and even chemotherapy unnecessary. “Our initial laboratory tests showed us that our device could be used to destroy the cells,” he said. The research was published in the German science journal Angewandte Chemie.

Concussion boosts risk of suicide 3x: study

Earlier this week, US health officials confirmed the first case of sexuallytransmitted Zika, involving a person who had traveled to Venezuela and infected a sexual partner in Texas upon return. “Men with a pregnant sex partner who reside in or have traveled to an area of active Zika virus transmission and their pregnant sex partners should consistently and correctly use condoms during sex (vaginal, anal, or oral) or abstain from sexual activity for the duration of the pregnancy,” said the CDC in a statement. “Consistent and correct use of latex condoms reduces the risk of sexual transmission of many infections, including those caused by other viruses.” The CDC urged couples in which a partner is not pregnant to “consider using condoms consistently and correctly during sex or abstaining from sexual activity.” But as to how long such measures should be followed, the agency could not say. “The science is not clear on how long the risk should be avoided,” said the CDC statement, urging people to talk about testing with their healthcare providers. “Research is now underway to answer this question as soon as possible.” - Protecting pregnant women -Meanwhile in Brazil, the nation’s top research institute said that Zika has been detected in urine and saliva, but added that there was no proof the virus could be transmitted through those fluids. Asked during a conference call with reporters how likely it might be that Zika could spread through saliva and urine, Frieden said “we just have no data to inform that.” Thousands of children in Brazil have been born with shrunken heads in the past year -- a birth defect that could result from Zika infection, though a definitive cause has not yet been proven. Until now, cases of Zika-linked microcephaly have been mainly in Brazil and in Hawaii, where a woman who had traveled to Brazil recently had a baby with the birth defect.

Scientists found that adults who suffer a concussion may see their risk of suicide rise three times or more in the years after the injury (AFP Photo/Philippe Merle)

TTAWA, Canada | AFP - Adults who suffer a concussion may see their risk of suicide rise three times or more in the years after the injury, according to a study out Monday. The medical records of more than 235,000 patients who sustained concussions over a 20-year period in Ontario, Canada were analyzed in the journal of the Canadian Medical Association (CMAJ). Overall, those who had concussions experienced a three times higher risk of the suicide in the coming years than the general population. The likelihood of suicide was even greater among those whose head injury was incurred on the weekend, suggesting they had hurt themselves during a recreational activity rather than at work. “Weekend concussions were associated with a one-third further increased risk of suicide compared with weekday concussions,” said the study. The average time from concussion to subsequent suicide was nearly six years. “Given the quick usual resolution of symptoms, physicians may underestimate

the adverse effects of concussion and its relevance in a patient’s history,” said study author Donald Redelmeier, senior core scientist at the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences (ICES) and a physician at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario. “Greater attention to the long-term implications of a concussion might save lives because deaths from suicide can be prevented.” The average age of concussion patients was 41, and they tended to be male urban dwellers without any history of suicide attempt, hospitalization or past psychiatric disorder. In addition to the boost in suicides among those who hurt themselves on the weekend, the study found a “distinctly larger” longtime risk of suicide “among patients after an ankle sprain.” “Suicide is not confined to professional athletes or military veterans,” said Michael Fralick, a coauthor and medical trainee at the University of Toronto. Nearly 4,000 lives ended by suicide in Canada in 2010.

Frieden said health officials are not surprised that cases have been largely isolated to Brazil “because of the time frame between infection and delivery.” Health officials are watching for a potential rise in microcephaly in other nations in Latin America and the Caribbean region, where the virus has spread, he said. Asked by a reporter for more specifics on when such cases could be anticipated, Frieden said it depends on many factors, including how much Zika was present in an area and how likely it is that a Zika infection may result in a birth defect.

rug prices were big news in 2015, thanks in large part to “Pharma bro” Martin Shkreli, who drew outrage for hiking the price of a life-saving drug by 5,000 percent. Such eye-popping increases were rare. But plenty of drugs became more expensive during the past year. How much did prescription drug prices rise overall in 2015? More than 10 percent — well in excess of the U.S. inflation rate — according to an analysis released Monday by Truveris, a health-care data company that tracks drug prices. The firm analyzes data involving hundreds of millions of payments that public and private insurers, businesses and patients make each year to U.S. pharmacies. The result is an index that measures the average price of prescription drugs, driven by the most commonly prescribed medications. “We’re in our third year of doubledigit [increases],” said A.J. Loiacono, the firm’s chief innovation officer, adding that the increases occurred across virtually every drug category. “Double-digit inflation is concerning. I don’t care if it’s for gas or food; it’s rare.” Truveris found that over the past year, the price of branded drugs — those still on patent — rose 14.77 percent. Specialty drugs, which often are used to treat complex or rare conditions and tend to carry high price tags, rose 9.21 percent. Even generic drugs, which historically have tended to get cheaper over time, rose 2.93 percent. Nearly every class of drugs experienced an uptick in prices, Loiacono said, but some conditions saw bigger bumps than others. Drugs that treat the symptoms of menopause, for example, rose nearly 34 percent last year. Those that treat gout: 33 percent. Medications for erectile dysfunction: 20 percent. Health insurers, pharmaceuticals feud over drug cost bill Two lobbying behemoths have been quietly ducking it out behind the scenes at the Virginia General Assembly over a whether drugs companies should have to open up their books. Health insurers are hoping to capitalize on the public’s concern about prescription drug prices with legislation that would require pharmaceuticals to publish the cost of developing, manufacturing, and marketing of drugs that cost $10,000 or more for a single course of treatment. Supporters said the legislation is a straightforward transparency measure that would allow the public to better understand where their health care dollars go. Pharmaceutical companies said the bill would not provide an accurate look at the true costs and benefits of their products, and suggest the continent so that we can learn more,” he said. He also made clear that the latest CDC guidance does not apply to men who have sex with men. “Our primary concern and priority here is the protection of pregnant women,” said Frieden. The “bottom line” for the CDC is to urge women who are pregnant or want to become pregnant to avoid traveling to areas where Zika virus is circulat-

Sudhir Mathuria Contact: Sudhir Mathuria Licensed Professional Health Life 360 6650 Southwest Freeway Houston TX 77074 713-771-2900 www.MyMedicarePlanning.com the legislation is the first step toward government-related price controls that would stifle future innovations. Both sides have given millions of campaign donations in past years and have a heavy Capitol lobbying presence. Lawmakers say the lobbying on both sides has been intense. Virginia is the latest in a number of states where health insurers have tried similar measures since last year. Those efforts have so far failed, including in California where a similar bill was defeated last month. But Gray said he likes the bill’s chances in the GOP-controlled Virginia General Assembly in part because of the impact high prices of certain drugs are having on the state employee health plan. Spending on prescription drugs by the state health plan went from $170 million in 2011 to $234 million in 2015, according to state data. “Fiscal conservatives care about being responsible for state funds, and the rising drug costs are hitting the state hard,” Gray said. Medication costs are now the public’s main health care concern, according to a poll released in August by the nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation. High-priced new drugs, including a $1,000 pill for hepatitis C, have alarmed the public. And pharma’s reputation, is also reeling from the exploits of Martin Shkreli, a 32year-old CEO who unapologetically raised the price of the only approved drug for a rare disease from $13.50 to $750 per pill. To choose right health, life and retirement plan contact Sudhir Mathuria @ 713-771-2900.

ing, he said. Those who live in these countries and territories should protect themselves by “rigorously using mosquito protection” such as wearing repellent, long sleeves and pants, using air conditioning and screens, Frieden said. “Zika reminds us that -- over and over -- nature is a formidable enemy,” he added. “We wish we knew more. We wish we could do more.”

“There are lots of unknowns here. That is why we have teams on the ground now, heading out today, tomorrow and next week to different places to partner with countries around

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US stocks rise as Yellen warns on US economy

EW YORK, AFP 2/10/2016 - Wall Street stocks rose early Wednesday as congressional testimony from Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen highlighted the risks to US growth from economic turmoil overseas.

JPMorgan Chase climbing 1.3 percent, Citigroup 3.0 percent and Goldman Sachs 2.1 percent. Technology shares were also higher. Apple rose 1.3 percent, Amazon 2.8 percent, Facebook 2.3 percent and Google parent Alphabet 2.5 percent.

About 30 minutes into trade, the Dow Jones Industrial Average stood at 16,112.14, up 97.76 points (0.61 percent). The broad-based S&amp;P 500 climbed 18.65 (1.01 percent) to 1,870.86, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index rose 70.87 (1.66 percent) to 4,339.63. Expressing concerns that were not nearly as pronounced the last time she spoke publicly in December, Yellen said in prepared testimony to Congress that the outlook for the US economy had become more cloudy. She made no comment on whether the Fed still expected to continue raising interest rates this year, but her concerns prob-

U.S. Federal Reserve Board Chair Janet Yellen testifies at the House Financial Services Committee in Washington February 10, 2016. REUTERS/Gary Cameron ably lowered the possibility of an increase in its next policy meeting in mid-March following the first hike in December in more than nine years. Yellen gave “no specific signal” on the mid-March meeting, “although there is enough focus on downside risks now to make a tightening move again

that soon seem quite unlikely,” said Jim O’Sullivan, chief US economist at High Frequency Economics. The gains in the US came as European equity markets also steadied after two days of bruising losses. Banking shares rose, with

VW to recall 680,000 cars in US over faulty airbags

ERLIN, AFP, 2/10/2016 Embattled German auto giant Volkswagen is having to recall 680,000 cars in the United States owing to possible faulty airbags supplied by Japanese maker Takata, a company spokesman said on Wednesday. Already a day earlier, VW’s domestic rival Daimler announced it was recalling 705,000 Mercedes-Benz cars and 136,000 Daimler vans after being informed by US authorities of a potential fault in the Takata airbags. The recalls by the German automakers are the latest after it was found that the Takata airbags can rupture and hit occupants of a car with shrapnel. At least 10 deaths, including nine in the United States, have been tied to the faulty airbags. Automakers worldwide have been forced to recall more than 20 million cars to have the airbags replaced. Investigators suspect that the

Disney dropped 3.9 percent despite reporting that fiscal first-quarter earnings jumped 32 percent to $2.9 billion, easily topping analyst expectations following record-setting sales of its “Star Wars” blockbuster movie. The selloff reflected concerns about the long-term outlook for its ESPN sports network and other cable channels. Time Warner plunged 6.6 percent as fourth-quarter revenue came in at $7.1 billion, well below the $7.5 billion projected by analysts. SolarCity plummeted 27.0 percent after projecting a loss of $2.55-$2.65 per share in the first quarter, more than the $2.36 forecast by analysts.

airbag inflators and the propellant inside can deteriorate, especially in consistently hot and humid conditions, causing them to misfire.

market Audi marque, might also be affected but “we are still in consultation with the American authorities,” a spokesman said.

The VW spokesman said that the models affected were Golf, Eos and Passat vehicles built between 2006 and 2014.

VW is currently embroiled in its deepest-ever crisis after US authorities accused it of installing emissions-cheating software in some of its diesel vehicles.

Nissan says nine-month profit soars on N America sales

OKYO - Nissan on Wednesday said strong North American sales drove it to another surging profit, as the world’s top auto market China shows signs of picking up.

swagen’s customers as the German giant deals with a massive pollution cheating scandal.

The Altima sedan maker said its April-December net profit jumped nearly 34 percent from a year earlier to 452.8 billion yen ($3.7 billion), despite weakness in Japan and emerging markets.

“Japanese automakers can take advantage of the slump by winning Volkswagen customers. It could be a plus for them.”

Nissan, which also said revenue jumped more than 10 percent to 8.94 trillion yen, is the last of Japan’s Big Three automakers to report its nine-month results. The company left unchanged its fiscal year to March profit forecast. “Nissan has been strong in North America while sales in China are steady so the upward trend is likely to continue for now,” said Shigeru Matsumura, analyst at SMBC Friend Research Center, who pointed to the rollout of small sport utility vehicles in Asia’s top economy. Japan’s automakers have also been looking to lure rival Volk-

“Volkswagen is in a severe situation,” said Rakuten Securities analyst Yasuo Imanaka.

Nissan and its top domestic rivals, Toyota and Honda, have benefited from healthy growth in the US where low interest rates proved a boon to consumers, although the slim possibility of rate hikes this year could dampen sales. Weakening demand in emerging markets such as Thailand and Indonesia, as well as a planned consumption tax hike in Japan next year, could also eat into the market. “In Japan and certain emerging markets, we have seen some challenges, but there is a positive trend in North America so we have not revised our forecast,” Nissan corporate vice-president Joji Tagawa told reporters.

US jobless rate falls to 4.9% but hiring slows in January ASHINGTON The US unemployment rate fell to an eight-year low of 4.9 percent but hiring slowed in January, fresh evidence of the US economy hitting a soft patch.

Volkswagen will recall 680,000 cars including Golf, Eos and Passat vehicles built between 2006 and 2014, due to possible faulty airbags supplied by Japanese maker Takata (AFP Photo/Scott Olson)

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But there were enough signs of persistent strength in the Labor Department’s January jobs data Friday to fend off the conclusion the global slowdown is dragging the US down with it. The country’s jobs machine generated just 151,000 net new positions last month, a sharp downshift from the average 271,000 new jobs over the previous two months. Coming on the tail of a second very strong year for hiring -2.7 million new positions were generated in all of 2015 -- the one-month downturn did not by itself signal a new trend. There were some signs of modest strength, with the unemployment rate hitting its lowest level since February 2008, at the beginning of the US recession. In addition, growth in workers’ earnings, now closely watched as a sign of whether inflationary pressures might begin building, picked up pace. Average hourly earnings rose by 0.5 percent from December to $25.39, and were up 2.5 percent year-on-year. Also, another key barometer, the employment to population ratio, which gives a broader picture of the size of the working population, edged up to 59.6 percent, compared with 59.3 percent a year ago. Sill, it ran over 63 percent before the 2008-2009 recession.

Defending his economic record, President Barack Obama trumpeted the new low in the jobless rate. “The United States of America, right now, has the strongest, most durable economy in the world,” he said. “Over the past six years, our businesses have added 14 million new jobs.” Hiring continued to be strongest in the retail trade, the leisure and hospitality sector, and health care. But also showing strength were construction and manufacturing, the latter having slumped in recent months. “Talk of recession in the (manufacturing) sector is overdone, though exporters clearly are struggling,” said Ian Shepherdson of Pantheon Macroeconomics. Yet January’s numbers also showed why many Americans are less ebullient. The total number of unemployed persons, at 7.8 million, was only slightly better from December. Long-term unemployed Americans, 2.1 million, and those working only parttime because they cannot find full-time work, about six million, were both little-changed. - Fed’s rate plans mulled -Economists were hesitant to declare one-month’s hiring slowdown a trend. “Today’s numbers are about momentum, so while 151,000 new jobs in January is below expectations and off pace from prior months, the data shows America’s recovery is continuing,” said Beth Ann Bovino, US chief economist at Standard &amp; Poor’s Ratings Services.

ic turmoil and domestic market gyrations, positive job growth, the drop in the unemployment rate to 4.9 percent, and the uptick in wages show the US is heading in the right direction,” she said. Shepherdson said the seasonal effect on many of the numbers means “you cannot use these numbers in support of a broad economic slowdown story.” The monthly data is more heavily in focus now as an indicator of what the Federal Reserve might do in its March policy meeting, after raising interest rates a quarter point in December but standing firm in January. The rise in wages, if sustained in February data, would support another rate hike. But continued slow hiring could prod the Fed to wait for even more data on how the economy, and inflation, are moving. “What this all means for the Fed is unclear,” said Shepherdson. “But their obsession with wage inflation makes it very risky to assume they’ll focus only on the payroll ‘slowdown,’” he said, making the data on the jobs market in February even more important. Markets though took the wage growth as supportive of a rate hike, at least sooner rather than later. The dollar strengthened about 0.4 percent to $1.1146 against the euro, and near-term Treasury bond yields rose sharply. Equity markets though sank, with some blaming the possibility that the Fed will raise rates next month. The S&amp;P 500 lost 2.0 percent in late trade.

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HOROSCOPE

VOICE OF ASIA 18

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

Your Horoscope for the Week of February 12, 2016 READ YOUR COMPLETE HOROSCOPE

by Hardik Vyas, Astrologer Cell : 832-298-9950

ONLINE WWW.VOICEOFASIAONLINE.COM

Libra (R,T) 23 Sept to 22 Oct

Aries (A,L,E) 21 March to 20 April You may encounter problems with authority figures that could lead to delays. Your imagination can help you come up with some high profit ideas. Even you still have things to learn. Taking part in a class or workshop is one way to help this happen. Make sure all of your personal papers & data are in order. Pay close attention to detail & don’t put serious issues on the back-burner. If you see the challenge as a puzzle, you’ll be able to put the pieces together.

tough to quit.

Need for patience & understanding. Use these valuable virtues to get you through others’ moods. Those around you may start the week with enthusiasm, then lose their way in the process. You can get others to do things for you if you use your charm. Dealing with “wishy-washy” people may test your patience. Try to keep your workload to a normal level, no more long hours. You need your rest, even if you see yourself as too

Scorpio (N,Y) 23 Oct to 21 Nov

Taurus (B,V,U) 21 April to 20 May It may be impossible to accomplish anything if you try to do it alone. Bring your leadership qualities to the surface & help organize your mutual efforts. Arguments with family or friends may really set you off. Try hard not to instigate unnecessary friction with anyone. It would be best for you to stay put & avoid conversations that are controversial to start with. Follow your basic instincts & you’ll do very well. Exercise your rights & don’t fear the unknown. Discovery must become your passion.

Responsibilities & getting back to basics will rule out this week. You need to have a conversation with one who wants to hang on to your generous hospitality, forever. Some uncertainty may cause you to take time to make decisions. Your ability to work through complex situations can come in very handy. You need to eliminate distractions and get straight to the heart of the matter.

Sagittarius (BH,F,DH,TH) 22 Nov to 21 Dec

Gemini (K,CHH,GH) 21 May to 20 June This is the time to renovate, remodel or just redecorate, Make the atmosphere more. You may be able to see much more than the rest of us. You’ll be able to tap into this part of your psyche with little effort. Your perspective will allow you to notice the big patterns that often may be lost in the shuffle of day-to-day life. Children & loved ones may be on your mind more. Try to get more involved in organizations that help children who are experiencing difficulties.

The intuitive and psychic perceptions you receive from many sources, An intense conversation could be important to you. Reevaluate your past, try to bring out your best qualities, set aside your insecurities. Communications & understanding will increase greatly. Plan outings with family or friends with fun filled conversation. Your knowledge & good sense will help more than you expect. Competition could help your team, especially if you approach it in a positive manner.

Capricorn (KH,J) 22 Dec to 20 Jan

Cancer (D,H) 21 June to 22 July At present, charisma is not just about romance; it can also be about professional partnership. Your involvement with family situation could prove to be very interesting. You may want to watch what you say, though. Your words could be misinterpreted. Your intuitive insights and healing energies can be used positively to help others. Take the time to let your others know how much you really care. You’ll be able to see the bigger picture and understand that you’ll be enjoying a change of venue, very soon.

Stressful domestic & personal affairs, So spend time by yourself if at all possible. Your usual cool may not be evident and your emotions could be extreme. Erratic behavior may cause isolation. Allow others to do their own thing. When communicating with children, try to put yourself in their position. It’ll help you take a fresher perspective on the whole situation. You’ll experience a growing awareness of who you are and what you need. By the end of the week, you should have a much clearer sense of where you stand.

Aquarius (G,S,SH) 21 Jan to 19 Feb

Leo (M) 23 July to 22 August Your willingness is to take on difficult tasks. Your job may demand that you pay attention to every detail. You prefer to deal with the big picture. A close friend or partner could get on your nerves now. They may be worried about a minor matter that frustrates you. Don’t allow your emotions to make decisions for you. It may cause trouble to control your actions or re-actions. Your emotional well-being will depend on how well you deal with a recent family situation.

Your life has been far too busy lately. Try not to sweep your problems under the rug. Expect disagreements with your partner if financial irresponsibility has left you in a tight spot. The key might be to set limitations on each other’s spending habits. Perhaps you were supposed to take care of this situation long time ago. Slow down and deal with it now. Then you’ll get this problem behind you forever. If you want to make long term plans, make sure you share them with those who will be affected.

Pisces (D,CH,Z) 20 Feb to 20 March

Virgo (P) 23 August to 22 September New dynamic cycle of change that is about ready to begin. Unpredictable events may disrupt your routine greatly. You may find it hard to get a clear response from a co-worker, mate. You need the information & you need it now, but somehow it may not be forthcoming. Try asking again, with finer delicacy. It may just be that, there’s more here than meets the eye. An act of kindness or gesture of caring can melt the resistance and get you what you want. Your generosity could also put you in the poorhouse.

You don’t have to accept whatever comes your way, but neither should you reject innovation as a matter of course. You may also have the gift of being able to push others in the direction you want them to go. You understand how to use the energy of the team, and this enables you to stretch a dollar with great success. Take some time out to do things with children. You may just find they really need more than you imagined. Try not to lose your patience, support will work better than criticism.

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CLASSIFIEDS

VOICE OF ASIA 19

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

P/ T Graphic Artist

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VOICE OF ASIA 20

FRIDAY, February 12, 2016

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