AV 2nd May 2020

FIRST & FOREMOST ASIAN WEEKLY IN EUROPE

inside: Indian-origin part of Oxford team manufacturing vaccine R

Let noble thoughts come to us from every side

2 MAY - 8 MAY 2020 - VOL 48 ISSUE 51

BRITISH ASIANS WARY OF CONTACT TRACING APPS Experts suggest community assistance is key to gather and transmit information

SEE PAGE 2

Ramadan in lockdown without internet SEE PAGE 6

Sikh man inspired

by Captain Tom Moore fundraises for NHS SEE PAGE 13

Potting it right: British Asians go green with their grandparents SEE PAGE 17

Facebook, RIL ink mega-deal to bring market to your doorstep Rupanjana Dutta & Priyanka Mehta

A recent report by NHS England has pointed out that 16.2% of the population who tested positive for coronavirus, when they died were from BAME communities.

The statistics came last week after a review was announced to examine the disproportionate number of BAME people being affected by Covid-19.

According to the 2011 census, the BAME community constitute about 10.8% of the UK population, which means a greater proportion of deaths are coming from the BAME groups. Out of 16.2%, 3% is of Indian heritage, 2% is of Pakistani and 0.6% is of Bangladeshi origin.

The UK is therefore racing against time to design and implement a contact tracing app in a desperate attempt to curb the spread of coronavirus before a “predicted� secondwave dismantles the NHS. Caught in the crosshai rs of easing lockdown restrictions and executing an app with data protection concerns, the British government has a host of other challenges cut out for itself. But beyond everything can technology challenge community transmission and triumph medicine?

Continued on page 15

SEE PAGE 20

India prepares comeback plan SEE PAGE 26

2 UK

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TEAM GUJARAT SAMACHAR AND ASIAN VOICE AT YOUR SERVICE

with Keith Vaz

Dear Readers, The Corona epidemic has severely affected the whole world including us all.

Our dedicated team is working hard to keep you updated with the latest news coverage in the comfort of your home.

During this period of crisis, many of our service oriented organisations and individuals are playing their role

Professor Iqbal Singh OBE FRCP An experienced clinician specialising in care of the elderly, pioneer in ethnic health and diversity, combined with board level GMC and Healthcare Commission Service. He is a Medical Leader with great credibility in the wider community, particularly in relation to equality and inclusion matters.

Professor Singh is a member of the Health Honours Committee. He was appointed in August 2018 and is deeply committed to widening access and outreach and embedding fairness and equality in systems.

He is a member of the National Platinum Awards Committee and medical vice chair of the Advisory Committee for Clinical Excellence Awards (North West) and led the way for stakeholder engagement. As founder and chair of the Centre of Excellence for Safety in Older People’s Care, Professor Singh has led on training and education of the workforce within the health and social care sector on issues around improving skills and knowledge and equally focusing on embedding a culture of compassion and respect.

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Which place, or city or country do you most feel at home in?

Very much at home in Blackburn and the UK and equally at home in Punjab, India. I was brought up in Chandigarh and qualified in Amritsar and have been a consultant in Blackburn for over 30 years.

What is the best aspect about your current role?

To be able to make a meaningful contribution to address the challenges of older people living longer, healthier, and more independently and also improvements and achievements in fairness and equality.

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What are your proudest achievements?

My contributions to the care of older people over almost four decades, improving the safety and quality of care and embedding dignity and compassion in healthcare and equality and inclusion more widely.

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What inspires you?

My patients and colleagues over the years and seeing and delivering improvements in healthcare.

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What has been biggest obstacle in your career?

Not an obstacle, but the limited resources within which NHS staff have been working, especially over the last many years and the need for cultural change.

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Who has been the biggest influence on your career to date?

My parents who always believed in the wellbeing and the good health of all, especially those who need it the most. They always felt that people who devoted their life to the service of others were really very lucky.

And the worst?

I try to focus more on the positives rather than the negatives, of course there are impediments and areas that may need changing, or could be improved, but working in health one realises that the best way is to do your utmost with the limited resources and support available.

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What are your long term goals?

To contribute to health care, patient safety and improving ethnic health and embedding inclusion and diversity in all aspects.

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If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?

To make sure that health and social care staff are valued and recognised. Recent COVID 19 crises has made us realise the importance of health and social care staff and that those in the caring profession are the highest skilled.

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If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why?

Sir Garfield Sobers and how he managed hit six sixes in an over.

Councillor apologises after tweeting photo of bacon while observing Ramadan

A Liberal Democrat councillor, who suffers from various allergies, apologised after he tweeted a picture of eggs and bacon, in solidari-

ty with Muslims fasting for Ramadan, in a bid by the party to ‘take part’ in ‘Lib Dem Iftar’. This initiative was joined by leader Ed

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Davey and Mayoral candidate Siobhan Benita.

Ian Manning, a county councillor in Cambridgeshire, tweeted the picture by tagging Muslim Council of Britain, with the caption: 'Up early to start my fast for #LibDemIftar! Really not sure I'll get through to the evening but we'll see!”

After realising that Muslims don't eat pork, he deleted the tweet and apologised.

Owning up to his honest mistake, he reportedly said, "Re food photo earlier.

Important point is the fast.

Allergies mean choices limited. This is a learning experience and I'd prefer to be honest about it than not.

Sorry if it caused offence.

Also it was 4am and I was half asleep."

as a vigil citizen by contributing in the service of our society.

To appreciate these good deeds of humanity, we publish a special coverage every week in our newsweeklies.

We are eager to hear from you about any sort of such good work conducted by you or anyone known to you. You can email us at jyotsna.shah@abplgroup.com

Indian-origin part of Oxford team manufacturing vaccine On 23rd April, Oxford University initiated the first human trial in Europe of a coronavirus vaccine and Kolkata’s Chandra Datta is the only Indian-origin to be part of the team that has manufactured the first batch of vaccines.

Currently a Quality Assurance Manager, Trainee Qualified Professional in Clinical Bio-manufacturing Facility, Chandra first moved to the UK in 2009 to pursue her post-graduation in Biotechnology from the University of Leeds. She started working in her current role at Jenner Institute, University of Oxford in April last year and has recently been part of the team hunting for the coronavirus vaccine. In her role, Datta has been responsible for quality checks, proper labelling and dispatch of the vaccine.

Operated by the Jenner Institute of Oxford Vaccine Group, the hunt for a coronavirus vaccine had begun as early as 20th January with the project being led by Prof Sarah Gilbert, Prof Andrew Pollard, Dr Teresa Lambe, Dr Sandy Douglas, Associate Prof Catherine Green and Prof Adrian Hill.

The University of Oxford had started screening healthy volunteers (aged 18-55) in March for their trial and vaccinated the first participants on 23 April. The trial aims to assess whether the new vaccine, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, can protect healthy people from COVID-19. It will also provide valuable information on safety aspects of the vaccine and its ability to generate good immune responses against the virus. Asst Prof Catherine Greene, who is the head for Clinical Bio-manufacturing Facility (CBF), thanking her team tweeted, “We made it! The first batch of ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccine that is being used in the clinical trials here in Oxford was manufactured by my marvellous team at the CBF. We take no credit for the conception or the design, but we will take credit for having gone from DNA construct to GMP

Chandra Datta

(Good Manufacturing Practice) certified product into trial in 65 days. A phenomenal effort from the whole team who deserve a name call.”

Around 1000 people will take part in this trial. Half of these volunteers will be injected with the vaccine while the other half (the control group) will receive a meningitis vaccine. The vaccine, jointly designed by Vaccitech and University of Oxford, comprises Vaccitech’s ChAdOx1 adenovirus vaccine vector platform encoding the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, the COVID-19 virus.

Several countries are racing to find a vaccine for coronavirus. According to the BBC, half a dozen Indian firms are developing vaccines against the virus that causes Covid-19 including Serum Institute of India, the world's largest vaccine maker by number of doses produced and sold globally.

In the UK, the first trials are meant to be conducted by two universities – the University of Oxford and Imperial College London – as separate research projects. If the trials are successful, the first vaccines could come into circulation by autumn this year. The Imperial College clinical trial is meant to start in June 2020.

UK repatriates about 4000 more Britons from India On Thursday 23rd April, the UK in collaboration with the Indian Government announced additional 14 chartered flights to repatriate 3,600 more stranded British from India.

Following is the detail of the scheduled flights: Amritsar to London: 28 April, 29 April, 30 April, 1 May, 2 May (x 2), 3 May, 4 May ● Ahmedabad to London: 28 April, 29 April, 1 May, 3 May, 4 May ● Delhi to London: 30 April Following the latest announcement, the FCO estimates to have flown over 13,000 stranded Britons in India to the UK through a total of 52 chartered flights from India. UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said, ●

“Travel to and from India is severely restricted and so we have organised a series of charter flights.

Through these 52 UK charter flights, we will have brought back 13,000 people and our staff in India will continue to support all those UK nationals who need our help.”

There has been a huge demand for these flights, with seats now being allocated to those already registered via the government’s online booking portal - CTM. UK Minister of State for South Asia and the Commonwealth, Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon said: “We have already helped over 6,500 people return from India since we began our charter flight programme, with a further 7,000 due to return in the coming weeks.”

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2 May - 8 May 2020

Forgetting those who created Britain’s social fabric The latest weekly ONS figures of coronavirus deaths in the UK shows that they have happened in care homes, with more than 4,300 deaths recorded in a fortnight. UK has always been careful about its elderly, who have contributed immensely to the British society. GP services are still ringing around the elderly stuck within four walls and asking about their well-being, and advising them for as long as required.

Under normal circumstances the elderly are more likely to suffer from social isolation and loneliness; they may be less mobile than they once were, their friends may pass away and they may not be in the same habit of digital communication that younger people are. According to Age UK in 2016, there are 1.2mn chronically ill people in the UK, and half a million older people go at least five or six days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone at all.

Coronavirus, has taught Britain the value of company. They have learnt how the elderly and vulnerable feel about isolating without friends and family, often having no one to speak to.

Social media have often full of empathising youngsters, many who have taken the responsibility to call around elderly family and friends, just to speak to them.

But the situation in care homes isn’t the same. From Wednesday, the government will publish daily figures for the number of coronavirus deaths in care homes and the community. This follows after complaints for many weeks that by only publishing hospital deaths, figures could be underestimating the true number of deaths by as much as half, according to some estimates.

The Health Secretary and government’s response was criticised heavily by Intisar Chowdhury, the 18-year-old son of Abdul Chowdhury, a consultant urologist at Homerton hospital in east London who died after contracting Covid-19. Not only that medics are asking for answers for lack of PPE through judicial means.

The government has told the community that eligibility for free coronavirus tests has been extended to NHS patients and staff who do not have symptoms, and care home residents and staff who do not have symptoms (those who do have symptoms qualify for tests already). Anyone over 65 with symptoms and anybody who needs to go to work leaving home- who has symptoms, as well as members of their family, will also be eligible.

But despite such promises, situation in care homes remain dire. Many elderly remain in darkness regarding testing as well as lack of Personal Protective Equipments (PPE) for the carerswho could be asymptomatic, passing on the virus or even dying by contacting it. Health Secretary Matt Hancock has insisted that protecting care home patients from coronavirus has been government’s ‘top priority from the start’, after Sky News was told that elderly patients were discharged into care homes before they are well enough. In some cases, they were not been tested before they returned, which is potentially exposing thousands of vulnerable residents to coronavirus.

Even after the official figures showed care homes now account for a third of coronavirus death, health secretary has denied the government had not properly protected elderly residents.

It is rather surprising, how Tories are letting their vote bank slip away- all those elderly, who voted for Boris Johnson, to ensure Britain exits EU. It is perhaps time, to hold the government accountable for endangering lives, that have sacrificed so much to enrich the British society. This includes the war veterans, who are still raising millions for NHS and those BAME front-liners, who have disproportionately lost lives, while caring for others. The life insurance or compensation scheme of £60,000 announced, including for Indian passport holder front-liners, is too little for the sacrifices they have made for Britons.

A Confucian confusion The world is still grappling with the coronavirus pandemic but on the other side of the ocean North Korea appears to be embroiled in a confucian confusion. Or so the international reportage about the death of Kim Jong Un, North Korea’s supreme leader documents.

Speculations about Kim’s critical conditions had first been picked up on 15th April when he was absent from the national ceremony celebrating his grandfather’s birthday. Every year, the state-controlled media is disciplined to dedicate air time to Kim cheerfully peering through the balcony as a series of missile tests salute his grandfather and North Korea’s eternal president Kim Il-sung. However, this year, he was a no-show. The same media has also reiterated on various accounts that Kim Jong Un continues to send his best wishes to global leaders. However, in a stark contradiction Dominic Raab who had been deputising for prime minister Boris Johnson said he was unaware if Kim was alive on Sky News’ Sophy Ridge show.

In the meantime, CNN International, was the first international newspaper to break through the country’s heavily sensored news emporium, reporting that Kim was in “great danger” after undergoing heart surgery. Perhaps, CNN picked up the wire from Shukan Gendai, the Japanese weekly magazine which asserted that Kim Jong Un was in a “vegetative state” following a failed operation to insert a stent. Another stream of information is dispatched from the vice director of HKSTV Hong Kong Satellite Television, a Beijing-backed broadcast network in Hong Kong, which claims that Kim was dead, citing a “very solid source.” In a stark contradiction Seoul-based website Daily NK reported that Kim was recovering after undergoing a cardiovascular procedure on April 12 citing an unnamed source in North

Korea. Meanwhile, South Korean foreign policy advisor Moon Chung-in insisted, “Kim Jong Un is alive and well. He has been staying in the Wonsan area since April 13. No suspicious movements have so far been detected".

Besides all other speculative theories floating social media, Reuters reported that China had dispatched a team of medical personnel to North Korea to assess the situation on the ground.

Yet, the mystery continues with recent stream of opinion columns and discussions among international authorities centering around the line of succession in North Korea.

Traditionally, a stranglehold of Confucian and totalitarian dictatorship, North Korea has never allowed a woman to take control of the Kim dynasty. CIA experts, university professors and historians across the spectrum believe that Kim Jong Un, only 36, leaves behind his sister Kim Yo Jong as his only successor. The country may not be receptive of a female leader, a first since the seven decades of its independence from South Korea and Japanese-American invasion. However, North Koreans, critics highlight, would be more comfortable in receiving dictats from the Kim bloodline as opposed to an outsider. Kim Yo Jong has not been a frequent celebrity face in domestic or international media considering her brother stole all the prominence, being the supreme commander.

Yet, in recent times she made a well-publicized international début when she attended the opening of the 2018 Olympics, in Pyeongchang, South Korea. Following her confrontation with U.S Vice-President Mike Pence, has earned the title in the South Korean media as the “North Korean Ivanka Trump.” It remains to be seen if she can ascend the power throne in the absence of Kim Jong Un.

Protecting doctors and frontline personnel Taking note of the numerous incidents of attack on healthcare workers and law enforcement personnel amid the ongoing Covid-19 lockdown, the Union Cabinet in India has approved an ordinance making violence against doctors and frontline personnel a cognisable and non-bailable offence punishable with imprisonment up to seven years and fine of up to Rs 500,000. Additionally, in case of damage to property, violators would have to pay double the market price as compensation. The ordinance will amend the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897, and is a welcome step in current circumstances.

If the Covid-19 pandemic is akin to a war, then doctors and other health staff are our frontline soldiers. Authorities need to fully back them and ensure they are not harassed in any way at this hour of crisis. These measures will, no doubt, boost the morale of healthcare workers, who put in gruelling hours at great personal risk. But at the same time, the government shouldn’t lose sight of the need to create awareness about the disease and the strategies to combat it, which can help counter the spread of fear and prejudice.

Attacks on doctors were also a problem before the Covid19 outbreak. There were numerous cases where relatives of

patients assaulted doctors and nurses because they thought that the patients were not getting proper medical care. This had forced some hospitals to even hire security men to protect their staff. The root of the problem here is a dilution of faith in the medical profession. High anxiety levels from the pandemic accentuate the problem. Therefore, we need a systematic approach to address these issues. Had healthcare in India been better and more accessible, there would have been greater trust in health workers today in a pandemic situation.

The moot point, however, is that no one has the right to take the law into their own hands and assault doctors battling a pandemic. Strict punishment for perpetrators is in order.

Combating a pandemic requires forging of social solidarities. Reaching out to people with timely and clear communication holds the key. It’s well-known now that communication and community participation played a decisive role in Kerala’s relative success against Covid-19. Even as it frames strategies of deterrence to curb violence against medical professionals, the government should explore means to educate society towards developing empathy for their work.

A lie can travel half way around the world while the truth is putting on its shoes.

– Mark Twain

Alpesh Patel

Thanks Chancellor The Chancellor has agreed that small business owners, self employed need more support. He has announced that the Government will underwrite 100% of loans to a limit of £50,000. There are conditions of how much your company or you earnt in the recent past.

Why was this needed? Firstly, this will affect British Indians disproportionately because so many of us run businesses which did not fit the aid from Government up till now. We do not have private investment of £250k, or adequate security and cannot get matched funding for funding from Government.

So this new loan was essential for us. But there is another reason. Banks are shrewd.

They knew an 80% Government guarantee meant they could be held holding the can for defaults and after 2008 they know the Government will come after them.

So a 100% government back loan was needed. But what of the tax-payer. Well, it is a loan, not a grant. And the law of fraud is not suspended. Not everyone eligible will want the debt. And although interest free – that’s for only 12 months. So you don’t want to hold it too long either as a business owner.

The balance between the needs of the taxpayer and the business owner has been well held. In fact the Chancellor when asked why he has not 100% underwritten all loans of all sizes explained there may well be businesses regardless of covid who are not worthy of such loans.

So he has been reassuring and empathetic.

He even popped up on the BBC’s Big Night In and agreed to match the funds raised on the night to help charities in the UK. As my English friends would say – “he’s playing a blinder’. That issue of empathy has come up time and again on social media.

People have spoken of the New Zeland PM and contrasted that with male figures like PM Modi and President Trump. The latter a fool and the former possibly too aloof at this time?

But in India the PM not giving daily briefings has helped – the numbers are extraordinarily low – credit to the PM and the police and medical people.

Lord O’Neill mocked on Radio a few weeks ago that ‘thank god the virus didn’t start in India’. Well, it didn’t. That’s the point that China-philes won’t get. And it didn’t spread like it did in China either. Or in the UK. So there are political leaders who have shone. Another being Andrew Cuomo the Govermor of New York. Some ask why he is not standing for President. Others are awol – Biden for one – he has to isolate.

The crisis brings out character.

Editor: CB Patel Asian Voice is published by Asian Business Publications Ltd Karma Yoga House, 12 Hoxton Market, (Off Coronet Street) London N1 6HW. Tel: 020 7749 4080 • Fax: 020 7749 4081 Email: aveditorial@abplgroup.com Website: www.abplgroup.com © Asian Business Publications

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St Luke’s Hospice frontline crisis appeal Lord Dolar Popat, Founding Patron of St Luke’s Hospice St Luke’s Hospice is a renowned local institution which has been serving the residents of Brent and Harrow – particularly hundreds of British Indian families - for the last 30 years for palliative and end of life care.

Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, the Hospice is continuing its duty of care, but it has also stretched out its dedicated team of doctors, nurses and healthcare staff to serve in the frontline to help with the Coronavirus relief effort too.

This has understandably added a Lord Popat with Alpana Malde, the Chief considerable amount of pressure on St Executive of St Luke’s Hospice Luke’s existing resources. Due to the outbreak, all the Hospice’s charity could be approximately £1 million per shops have been ordered to close and quarter. Whilst the Conservative all fundraising events have been post- Government’s support for hospices has poned until further notice. The imme- been welcome, St Luke’s Hospice remains anxious about the long-term diate adverse financial impact of this

impact of the pandemic.

Given the unprecedented need for care at this critical time, I call upon the help of community groups and individuals to support our local Hospice to continue serving those in need. With your generous support, we hope that the Hospice can help reduce unnecessary hospital admissions and help to relieve the pressure on our local NHS. St Luke’s has launched an emergency appeal hoping to raise £100,000, which can help provide PPE for all frontline staff, support patients Covid19 patients who have been discharged from hospital and allow doctors to carry out treatments at home.

Donations can be made easily online via our website www.stlukeshospice.org/crisis.

I thank you all readers in advance for their efforts in supporting this great institution to continue at this crucial time.

Pregnant NHS mother legally challenges the government

A 27-year old expecting doctor who had recently protested outside the downing street over government’s mishandling of coronavirus is now legally challenging the government over its advice on Personal Protective Equipment.

Dr Meenal Viz is six months into her pregnancy and along with her husband Dr Nishant Joshi, is arguing that the NHS recommendations breach international standards set by the World Health Organisation Organization (WHO) besides the domestic legislation on health and safety at work.

Last week, NHS had asked medics to work without protective full-length gowns and instead use aprons as an alternate while treating Covid-19 patients.

In a statement to The Guardian, the couple said, Joshi and Viz added: “It is the government’s duty to protect its healthcare workers, and there is great anxiety amongst staff with regards to safety protocols that seem to

change without rhyme or reason. Every time a healthcare worker becomes hospitalised with Covid-19, it exacts an extraordinary toll on our friends, fami-

PRITI PATEL CLEARED OF ALLEGATIONS OF BULLYING STAFF Home Secretary Priti Patel has been cleared of bullying her staff members, after an official investigation by the Cabinet Secretary was ordered by Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

The inquiry believed to have found ‘no evidence’ that she bullied staff at Home Office, Department for Work & Pensions (DWP) and Department for International Trade and breached ministerial code by doing so.

The report by Sir Mark Sedwill was completed last week and was presented to Mr Johnson on his return to No 10 on Monday after his recovery from coronavirus.

Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the former Conservative leader, said he had told the inquiry that there was no truth in the allegations of bullying when he worked with her at the DWP. He urged the Government to investigate the motives of those who had accused her of bullying.

ly and colleagues.

“To sedate and ventilate your own colleague takes a mental toll on the entire workforce. The government owes an apology to these bereaved families, many of whom were unable to be with their loved ones in their dying moments.”

The challenge states that healthcare workers are being exposed to a greater risk of contracting Covid-19 and maintains that the guidance fails to address the heightened risks faced by BAME healthcare workers.

The letter also argues the guidance is unclear, has resulted in inconsistent practices across NHS trusts and fails to make clear that healthcare workers have a right to refuse to work without adequate PPE. Basmah Sahib, a solicitor at the London law firm Bindmans, acting on behalf of the couple, has sent Public Health England and the Department of Health and Social Care a formal letter before action seeking a response by next Monday.

in brief MOTHER PASSES AWAY AFTER DELIVERY, BABY TESTED NEGATIVE OFF CORONAVIRUS On 23rd April, a 29-year-old mother passed away from coronavirus shortly after delivering her newly-born son at Birmingham Heartlands Hospital.

Fozia Hanif had started to develop symptoms last month and tested positive, forcing a premature birth of her boy, Ayaan, on 2nd April as reported by iTv News.

Six days later, Fozia’s family was asked to visit their daughter in the hospital to say their final goodbyes. Even as the newly born son tested negative for the coronavirus, he is kept under observation.

"She was really happy, she got the baby photo they (nurses) printed out for her. She was holding and say ‘look it’s our baby’ and ‘we’re going to come home soon’… that’s the last time I spoke to her.” her husband of nearly seven years, Wajid Ali, told ITV News.

SHADOW MINISTER CALLS FOR COVID TESTING AT ALL UK PORTS AND AIRPORTS

Shadow Minister for International Trade, Gareth Thomas MP, is calling for temperature testing at all major Ports and Airports across the UK. A move which he argues will help contain Covid-19 and protect Britain’s key trading routes.

The Labour & Coop MP for Harrow West said, “It beggars’ belief that Ministers are not insisting on testing at airports and other ports such a move should be part of the national effort to reduce the spread of this terrible pandemic.

Places where the pandemic has successfully been contained such as Hong Kong have, for weeks, required everyone passing through their ports and airports to be tested and if necessary, to then isolate themselves.

Such a move would also help to protect staff and other passengers and crucially help to maintain confidence in Britain’s key trading routes.”

Hong Kong is known to have implemented some of the most stringent checks at their airports and ports to combat Covid-19 leading to the City reporting yesterday no new cases for the first time in nearly seven weeks.

The Government’s stance is that screening the 15,000 travellers who are currently landing in Britain each day would be futile with Health Secretary Matt Hancock last week stating… “We don’t test at airports because the number of people coming through has dropped dramatically”.

However, with testing rapidly becoming the norm at Airports and Ports across Europe, and the globe, the UK’s current position is likely to be increasingly questioned in the face of more robust testing regimes across the world.

MP bids virtual adieu to his grandmother INDIAN-ORIGIN DOCTOR GETS On 24th April, MP for Slough mourned the unfortunate death of his grandmother after she had contracted Covid19. Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, expressed a heartfelt goodbye to his grandmother on Facebook and Twitter. He wrote, “We bid our final farewell today to my grandmother (who sadly contracted Covid-19) - the matriarch of the family, a formidable personality, who was the glue binding together our extended family. From feeding, scolding and advising us, she was forever at the heart of things. Personally I learnt so much from my long weekly discussions with her and my grandfather, putting the world to rights, and will miss her dearly.

“Travesty is we couldn’t even carry her coffin on our shoulders, couldn’t mourn collectively with family and friends, and give her the befitting send-off she so richly deserved. Apologies to her and all those we couldn’t invite to the funeral. May she rest in peace.

NATIONAL RECOGNITION IN BRITAIN

The British Nuclear Medicine Society has conferred President's Medal on Prof.

Sobhan Vinjamuri for the year 2020 for his exceptional prowess in the field. Prof.

Vinjamuri is an expert in Diagnostic and Therapeutic Nuclear Medicine and has been Consultant Physician since 1998 leading one of the largest Nuclear Medicine Departments in the UK at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital.

As a senior medical leader and a scientific peer reviewer for various national and international research bodies, he has made substantial contributions especially in the area of Radionuclide Brain Imaging Service for Dementia.

He has also served internationally on behalf of the International Atomic Energy Agency.In 2017, he was honoured with Vikram Sarabhai Memorial Oration Award by the Society of Nuclear Medicine, India (SNMI).

It is noteworthy that he is the first and so far the only medic of Indian-origin in the history of the British Nuclear Medicine Society to serve as its President earlier in 2016.

He has also been Chairman of the Liverpool Research Ethics Committee.

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Gym-going grandma keeps fit by exercising in her garden As Covid-19 takes UK by storm, people in the community are stuck in their house self-isolating, while trying really hard to keep fit and eat healthy. The septuagenarians and octogenarians are not far off, keeping themselves in top shape and also inspiring the community to do so.

Bimla Devi is one of them. Between strength training, playing squash and keeping fit with her family, the 87 year old grandmother to 15 grandchildren, absolutely loves keeping active.

She was first introduced to the gym by her son, 30 years ago, when she lost her husband and it helped her focus. She was the only Indian in the gym.

Bimla is originally from Punjab in India, but now she lives in Leamington Spa. At her peak, Bimla was going to the gym every day, and believed that it helped with her arthritis. She took up squash at the age of 83, which she thinks is fun. She is currently the oldest member in the gym and told a UK newspaper that she secretly

Baby girl and brother die of stabbing, father critical

A baby girl and her three year old brother have died after they were found stabbed inside their home in Ilford, as their mum screamed for help. Their father 40 year old Nithin Kumar, locally known as as Nithi, was in a critical condition in hospital, as we went to press. The family were all found with knife injuries inside their east London home, at 5.40pm on Sunday.

There have been 21 fatal stabbings in London so far this year - six of them in the borough of Redbridge alone.

Metropolitan Police said its detectives were not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident, while the UK was under the coronavirus lockdown.

The girl died on the spot but her brother died after being rushed to a major trauma centre.

Jas A thwal, leader of Redbridge Council tweeted by saying that his thoughts were with the family and wider community "who are grieving this unspeakable tragedy".

loved the ‘fuss people made over her.’

In her 80s, Bimla falls into the ‘vulnerable’ category for coronavirus risk. She has to self-isolate at home, and of course, the gym is

off-limits until the danger from the pandemic has passed. But Bimla knows the importance of staying active and keep moving, even if she can’t follow her normal routine of exercise.

Thanks to FaceTime, Bimla connects with all of her grandchildren, and she is getting her fitness by playing with a ball in the garden and practicing her squash technique with her racket.

Photo courtesy: England Squash Twitter

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CIIr Ketan Sheth Councillor for Tokyngton Wembley Brent Council’s Chair of Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee

The end of the NHS Cricklewood walk in service It was very disappointing to hear that the NHS had made the decision to close the NHS Cricklewood walkin service despite there being strong public and political opposition to the move.

My Community and Wellbeing Scrutiny Committee was told by the NHS that the majority of people using the walk in centre were using it for minor illnesses such as coughs and colds and that there was increasing number of GP appointments available through GP extended access hub services. They also said they were investing in online services including video consultations.

The point they are making is that all these services have access to the patient’s record and that the walk-in service does not. They believe that access to a patient record allows the GP to offer a better and safer service to the patient.

The theory of all this is fine and I also understand at a time when the NHS is under increasing financial pressure, they need to make difficult choices and sometimes they have to stop doing things.

Accepting it does not always mean always liking it and I have challenged the NHS to do more to let people know what services are available and how to access them.

I will be watching this closely over the next few months to ensure that they do.

A Taste of Eid A celebration of food and culturerecipes for every occasion As Ramadan begins and the feast of Eid at its conclusion beckons, A Taste of Eid offers a seat at the table, showing how the feasts of Eid al-Fitr (Little Eid) and Eid alAdha (Big Eid) are celebrated in the UK, UAE and wider Arab world, bringing together over 70 recipes from the hearts and homes of these countries. In 2020, Eid al-Fitr will take place on Saturday 23rd May. Eid al-Adha will take place between Thursday 30th July and Monday 3rd August.

The book includes a selection of showstopping breakfast dishes, feasting food for midday, wholesome favourites to share with family and friends, delightful bite-sized treats, drinks and crowd- pleasing puddings and pastries.

Illustrated throughout in full colour, with interesting stories and anecdotes from its contributors, A Taste of Eid offers lots of traditional dishes, some with modern-day twists, and plenty of tips to help plan and prepare ahead.

Emma Marsden is a food writer and stylist who studied at Leith’s School of Food & Wine. She was formerly Cookery Editor at Good Housekeeping magazine and she contributes regularly to Harrods' magazine. She has written a number of books including Christmas on a Plate,Heart on a Plate, Fortnum & Mason’s Afternoon Tea and Honey & Preserves, WeightWatchers’ The Smart Cook and Sainsbury’s Kitchen Know-How. Saliha Mahmood, Masterchef winner (2017)in her foreword said, “Through the recipes and anecdotes in this cookbook, you will be able to experience Eid from the table of a Muslim family, and not just one particular family, but a myriad of different families with differing cuisines.”

Ramadan in lockdown without internet

Priyanka Mehta

British Rohingyas appeal the Bangladesh government to ease internet lockdown especially amidst concerns around Covid-19 Rohingyas settled in the UK have appealed to the Bangladesh government to temporarily restore internet services in the South Asian country.

Owing to coronavirus pandemic Muslims across the world have been unable to observe Ramadan in the traditional spirit of community gatherings, enjoying family iftars, and visiting the mosque for their daily prayers. Whilst many across the UK have resorted to online iftar sessions with their families through Zoom video calls, the Rohingya community settled in Bradford has not had the same fortune.

“I last spoke with my elder sister, Anowar Shah Begum, three weeks Nijam Uddin Mohammed ago. She had no knowledge of coroWatch (HRW), the lockdown measures navirus but she said something was difhave cut humanitarian workers disferent as they were not allowed to step tributing relief packages by 80 percent. out. I informed her about the pandemic Such measures have left the refugees in and while I don’t know if she undera dire situation and at severe risk of stood the complexity of the virus, she food and water shortages amidst the said they were all doing okay. I pray coronavirus outbreak. An aid official in every day that they are fine,” said Nijam his report to HRW also reported comUddin Mohammed, General Secretary plaints of overflowing latrines in some of British Rohingya Community UK. areas because there are not enough Nijam’s father-in-law, sisters, and staff members to address these issues, grandmother have been living in the resulting in old and disabled queuing Kutupalong camp near Cox’s Bazaar for up for hours. several decades now. The camps have Bangladesh's government decided previously been prey to outbreaks of to block access to the internet since measles and other infectious diseases August last year and this has heightmaking the 1 million living in the ened anxiety levels among refugees livcramped conditions of the camp susing a sheltered life in the UK about the ceptible and vulnerable to the novel security and wellness of their relatives virus. According to Human Rights

left behind in the camps.

Normal 2G networks have also been disrupted owing to coronavirus lockdown. Neighbours and friends are unable to check in on each other with restrictions to social mobility meaning that these refugees are completely in the unknown about the health conditions of their loved ones.

“We have written an open letter to the prime minister of Bangladesh requesting for the internet to be restored so that accurate information about Covid-19 is dispatched to them. And so that we are able to check in on our relatives about their health and safety.

But no action has been taken so far,” said Nijam.

Confined at his home in Bradford, Nijam spends most of his day gardening, cooking, and cleaning at his home to keep himself busy and ward off anxiety. Along with his wife, he has been praying five times a day, following the timings specified in the Islamic calendar at his home. Fasting for 30 years, this Ramadan is perhaps the most difficult for him with the inability to go to his local mosque ever since the UK announced a complete lockdown.

“We care more about the NHS frontline staff working overtime and risking their lives to save ours. My message to every fellow Muslim is that gathering is not compulsory in our religion. These are difficult days but we will surpass them with our strength in our faith,” he concluded.

Diabetes UK has teamed up with UK pro boxer Muhammad Ali to share their five top tips to help support the Muslim community with diabetes to stay healthy during Ramadan – and to mark the occasion safely during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ramadan runs from around 23 April for 29 or 30 days. Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr, a religious holiday celebrated

by Muslims worldwide. The Qur'an requires Muslims to fast during the month of Ramadan from sunrise to sunset.

There are exceptions, and people who are ill or have medical conditions do not have to fast – including those with diabetes. However, some people still choose to do so.

This year, Ramadan also falls when the suspected peak of the Covid-19 pandemic could take place which has prompted the charity to remind those marking the occasion to do so safely by adhering to social distancing rules and avoid unnecessary hospital admissions by fasting in a healthy way. The five top tips are: ● If you are unwell or have any symptoms of Covid-19 – do not fast. ● If you do choose to fast, before you start; include more slowly absorbed foods (low GI), such as basmati rice and dhal, in your meal, along with fruit and vegetables. ● During your fast, if you already check your blood sugar levels, do this more than usual. ● When you break the fast, have only small quantities of food, and avoid only eating sweet or fatty foods. ● Stay at home – do not be tempted to

Daniel Howarth, Head of Care at Diabetes UK, said, “We know that ultimately it is a personal choice whether or not to fast, but if you do choose to fast when you have diabetes, you must take extra precautions to make sure you are not putting your health at risk.

“That’s because if you have diabetes, fasting can risk aggravating complications associated with the condition, such as poor vision, heart or kidney disease, hypoglycaemia and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) – conditions that can require emergency hospital treatment.

“If you’re fasting and you feel that you are having a hypo, you must break your fast and take some sugary fluids followed by starchy food as otherwise you will harm your body and may need medical attention. You can find further advice on our website.

“If you’re showing any symptom of Covid-19, our advice would be not to fast.”

People who experience hypos, DKAs or other serious diabetes complications should seek medical advice and not let worries about catching coronavirus allow problems to get worse.

For life-threatening emergencies call 999. This is when someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk.

For non-life-threatening emergencies, if you or the person you’re with doesn’t need immediate medical attention, please consider other options before dialling 999, such as using the NHS 111 online service, or calling 111 if you don’t have internet access. You could also talk to a pharmacist, or call or email your GP practice or diabetes team.

Diabetes UK urges the Muslim community to stay safe and ‘fighting fit’ during Ramadan

visit family, friends or the mosque during this time.

Professional Boxer Muhammed Ali, lives with Type 1 diabetes, and has filmed a new video to share these tips on staying well during Ramadan. He said, “Ramadan is a special time for the Muslim community, but for those with diabetes there are increased risks and it’s important that everyone does their best to stay fighting fit during this pandemic – in order to help the NHS. “As a boxer with diabetes I always say I’m just like any other ordinary person and that life is not about waiting for the storm to pass by; but learning to weather the storm. These 5 top tips are easy to do and follow and make living with diabetes during Ramadan that little bit safer.”

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Ramadan during coronavirus: A time for ‘compassion and mercy’

Muslims should not feel guilty about struggling to observe Ramadan during the coronavirus crisis, a senior Muslim academic has said.

Speaking at the start of Ramadan, University of Edinburgh scholar Mona Siddiqui said the pandemic was instead a chance to practice “compassion and mercy” and help others “spiritually as well as physically and emotionally”.

Speaking on a broadcast on BBC Local Radio, Ms Siddiqui, who holds the posts of Assistant Principal for Religion and Society and Dean international for the Middle-East at the University of Edinburgh said, “It shouldn’t surprise us then that there will be Muslims who would normally observe Ramadan but this year may not be able to cope with the demands of fasting when so

much of normal life has been suspended.

“With work and family tensions amplified, in these times, helping one another spiritually is helping people as they struggle, as they live out their faith as best they can.

DMU RESEARCH RAISES CONCERNS ABOUT IMPACT OF RAMADAN DURING CORONAVIRUS LOCKDOWN ON TYPE 2 DIABETICS

Dr Abdullah Alghamdi

New research from De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) suggests that a lack of physical activity and poor sleep patterns during Ramadan can affect the health of people with Type 2 diabetes.

Hundreds of millions of Muslims around the world are observing Ramadan by taking part in a religious month of intermittent fasting that involves abstaining from food and drink from dawn to dusk.

But the DMU report’s authors have raised concerns that people with Type 2 diabetes should seek medical advice as to whether they take part or not.

They are also concerned that the global coronavirus lockdown could lead to a dramatic fall in physical exercise compared to previous periods of Ramadan, when people were free to visit their Mosque and visit friends and families to feast after dusk.

Dr Abdullah Alghamdi, under the supervision of Professor Parvez Haris, has based his advice on research which is the first to measure the effects of Ramadan on sleep patterns and exercise for people with Type 2 Diabetes by using Fit Bit and a questionnaire.

It has just been accepted for publication in Diabetes Therapy, an international, peer reviewed journal.

Dr Alghamdi carried out the study as a DMU PhD student in his home country of Saudi Arabia, where he

Professor Parvez Haris

works in a healthcare centre, and recruited 16 women and 20 men with Type 2 Diabetes.

Each agreed to wear a Fit Bit to measure exercise, rest and sleep while also filling in a daily physical activity questionnaire. They did this for seven days during Ramadan and then for another seven days two weeks after Ramadan had finished.

While physical activity was low in both periods – the heat is a major factor on daytime physical activity in the city of Riyadh, where the volunteers were from – there was a significant fall in the amount of sleep people were getting during and after fasting. It was calculated that 50 per cent of the group were getting less than six hours a night during Ramadan, compared to around a third more than that following Ramadan.

Published research has shown that a lack of activity and small periods of night time sleep can affect the way the body uses insulin and glucose.

Dr Alghamdi and Professor Haris’s research concluded that ‘the low physical activity and the poor sleep behaviours of the study’s participants may worsen their diabetes’ and furthermore this could ‘minimise the potential of Ramadan intermittent fasting as a non-pharmacological therapy’ for managing or even reversing Type 2 diabetes.

“Let’s make sure we don’t judge anyone for what they can and can’t do, that we don’t frighten people with God, that we show compassion and mercy.”

Ramadan is traditionally a communal time with group meals – or Iftar – and praying.

With places of worship closed the BBC is broadcasting weekly Christian services and Muslim reflections on Local Radio stations.

They are also available on BBC Sounds.

Speaking on Friday morning’s broadcast, Ms Siddiqui said lockdown forced us to “rethink the rhythm of religious rituals."

“In this current pandemic, living well is a challenge and only by nurturing a sense of purpose and compassion towards one another does our life continue to have greater meaning,” she said.

“Because if Ramadan is about fasting, it is also about hospitality.

“Not simply in the food we prepare, the charity we give, but an attitude to life. If Covid-19 has shown us anything it is how much simple acts of generosity and hospitality matter – quite simply these acts can be transformative to our own life as well others.”

Muslim reflections air each Friday at 5.50am on 14 BBC Local Radio stations: Leeds, Sheffield, Lancashire, Manchester, WM, Leicester, Stoke, Derby, Nottingham, Coventry and Warwickshire, Three Counties, London, Merseyside and Berkshire.

A Christian service is broadcast each Sunday at 8am on all 39 BBC Local Radio stations.

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2 May - 8 May 2020

As I See It CB Patel

Life is precious Dear Readers, It's a two-front battle. We must fight the virus and the economic downturn. But when it comes to where to put the might, there cannot be two options.

Life is precious. Times like this must have popped up a question in some of your minds — how worthy is the life?

Across the world, the governments are applying their best minds on when and how to end the lockdown. Options of world leaders now are no different than what they were in March while imposing lockdown to curb coronavirus spread- lives and livelihoods.

Covid-19 has created several questions, which are not a matter of statistic alone. But it is never whether to save life or economy.

There is no choice. Even if there is, it is very clear that saving a life is what we should focus on. The world-over damage to the economy could run into trillions of dollars. But no value can be put on life. We see different countries adopting different levels of lockdown to deal with the most severe humanitarian crisis of the century.

US President Donald Trump has shown eagerness to reopen the economy. He has also found some ground support from the voters. The US last week has witnessed people taking to the streets, staging protests, moving along the highways with placards that demand an end to the lockdown.

In Britain, Prime Minister Boris Johnson, recovered from Covid-19, is back to 10 Downing Street after three weeks. He has won the personal battle against coronavirus. But now he will have to walk a tight rope. A few individuals, who had pumped in millions in his leadership and the last general election campaigns, demand a quick exit from the lockdown. Few tycoons who helped him or his conservative party have attempted to dictate a democratic government, is undoubtedly worth examining.

Nobody challenges the need for lockdown, which affected all the sectors, be it marketplaces, entertainment plazas, industries, commerce, business and transport.

Second most populous and the largest democracy, India, has set an example for the world to study. The Union government led by the strong leadership of PM Narendra Modi has managed the support of 28 states, some of which are ruled by the opposition parties.

On Monday, for the fourth time, Modi held a video-conference with all the Chief Ministers.

Some of the states want to extend the lockdown till June. A few want the central government to take drastic measures and open up earlier. One thing is clear now.

The entire gamut of life will change beyond expectations in all its aspects. You cannot put a square peg in a round hole.

Based on the latest Singapore University of Technology and Design Data-Driven Innovation Lab, India should be 97 per cent free from Covid-19 infection by

around May 21. Most other countries may also witness a substantial recovery.

An epidemiologist has said 2.5 million people would have died in India without a strict lockdown measures . It's not the matter of the statics alone. But how you do the balancing act is what matters more.

New Zealand, a sober member of the rich country club, has come out with a striking report. The scientists think tank drew a conclusion from past experiences.

One of the earliest countries to impose lockdown, NZ's GDP is set to contract by over 6 per cent.

A new report Quantifying the wellbeing costs of Covid-19 by the New Zealand Initiative shows how an economic hit of about 6.1% of GDP would be justified if it meant saving 33,600 lives during the Covid-19 .

By other countries standard, India, home to 1.36 billion people, has opted for a strict lockdown.

Nearly 87 per cent of people are happy and supporting the lockdown speaks volumes for their values and culture. Compassion and humanity are at the core of Indian ethos.

Win-Win for RIL and Facebook Mukesh Ambani, one of Asia's richest and head of Reliance Industry Limited, accepted a friendly investment from Facebook April 22.

Through the surprise deal, seen as a boost to the Indian retail market, Ambani will accept $5.7 billion investment from the US social media giant in Reliance's telecommunication and digital service Jio .

The deal has been finalized a year after the chairman of oil and petrochemical giant, argued for data colonization-a move against tech giants like Amazon, Facbook and Apple owing and storing data abroad from India.

The deal will help reduce RIL's debt burden.

RIL petroleum has been a cash cow for quite some time. And, now other giants like Jio Retail are likely to get a boost in the company of Facebook. In the post-Covid world, this deal will change the focus of Indian digital sector from China to the US. So far, Chinese data giants like Alibaba and ByteDance have been the driving force for the Indian digital space.

India is one of the youngest countries. Its youth , full of ambition, energy and enthusiasm, and willing to work hard have opened the doors for the rapid growth of the country.

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Business Secretary criticised for being ‘unclear’ about how UK gets back to normal after coronavirus Business Secretary Alok Sharma MP came under attack from other Conservative MPs in a House of Commons business, energy and industrial strategy select committee for being ‘unclear’ about how UK gets back to work once the coronavirus ends. Business Secretary Nusrat Ghani MP Indian-origin Mr Alok Sharma Sharma, is committed to getting tough with high of the lockdown on British busistreet landlords, to help businessness. es and workers “falling between The Times reported that the cracks”, identified in a hearing Richard Fuller, MP for North East

by MPs. Bedfordshire, told Mr Sharma: Mr Sharma, 52, the former “Your answers to questions about international trade minister, has the reopening of the economy — been put into the forefront of the those answers will be heard by government after his elevation to many with a lot of frustration.

Business Secretary in February.

They were tentative as to what Last week he made his first measures might be taken, and appearance, by a video link, before unclear. the select committee. At the end “The government made that of an otherwise impressive contricall on the entire economy to shut bution, two Conservative backit down . . . without having [done bench MPs warned him of the work on] the countervailing ecorealities of the continuing impact nomic costs that would ensue.

What many businesses are looking for from you — because you are going to own a lot of the pressure in the recovery as it moves from the medical to business — what they need is a sense of hope from you that the plans are in place and they need specifics on those plans. People need a sense of hope and the expectations of what they need to do for the future.”

Nusrat Ghani, the MP for Wealden, warned Mr Sharma, by saying, “Many businesses feel they are on the verge of bankruptcy, especially if they lose the summer [trading]. What support is there to get those businesses up and running and who are making these decisions? The business department, cabinet, the Treasury?”

Mr Sharma reiterated the government’s take on that, saying it may be dangerous to open up the lockdown too soon and businesses understood that risk.

A community legal outreach collaboration led by Keele University is continuing to ensure vulnerable people are supported during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Community Legal Outreach Collaboration Keele (CLOCK) is a collaboration led by Keele University in partnership with the courts, law firms and charitable services. The project has trained Keele law students as Community Legal Companions to support families in crisis to access legal and charitable support, through signposting to the CLOCK partners, and assisting directly in court.

Although the current government advice is to stay home in order to stay safe, it is clear that home may not be a safe space for

risk of homelessness for those already sleeping rough or for those seeking refuge, and the increased hardship of the travel restrictions for asylum seekers, migrants and international students.

Dr Jane Krishnadas, Senior Lecturer in Law and Director of CLOCK, told the newspaper, “Keele University founded CLOCK in 2013 and so has been very well placed to respond swiftly with local community partners to the needs of families in crisis as a result of the pandemic...

“We are always looking at how the University can develop and improve this kind of support, and this is currently focused on a potential increase in demand from those seeking refuge during the lockdown period.”

Community legal programme helps vulnerable people during Covid-19 outbreak all during the lockdown. The national domestic abuse helpline, run by the charity Refuge, has reported a very substantial 700% increase in calls to the helpline recently, and traffic to its website and use of web chat facilities have increased.

During the pandemic, the CLOCK service has received requests from schools, children's services, and direct requests from vulnerable persons experiencing sexual or domestic violence. As part of the CLOCK response to the pandemic, Keele students involved with the Law in Action scheme, a community legal education module, have created a series of short videos to raise awareness of the increased risks of the lockdown such as sexting amongst children, the increased

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Don’t let Coronavirus Stress you out There is a lot of stress and anxiety experienced by individuals and families due to Covid 19. In this letter, I am offering the readers some simple and easy tips for coping with the pandemic.

Many people are worrying about their health.

Instead of worrying, which drains the energy in your body, be proactive in sustaining your health and building your immune system which will protect you from the virus. Drink plenty of water, eat fruits and vegetables, cut down on sugar which depletes the immune system, get fresh air and exercise, do breathing exercises and meditation which strengthen your resilience. There are ample podcasts and videos on social media on meditation, breathing techniques, aerobics, and healthy eating. Use the time in lockdown to make these important lifetime changes.

It is not a sign of weakness but strength to reach out and ask for support. Make a list of everyone you know, friends, family, colleagues, neighbours etc. Then put a tick by nine people from this list, three of each, who can provide practical, psychological, and moral support. Connect with them and sustain this support circle.

Keep your focus on the positives and limit the amount of news you take in. Every night make a list of all the good things in your day and life. Keep adding to this and read it just before bedtime. This way your psyche is assimilating positivity and helping you to keep a balanced frame of mind.

The source of anxiety is rooted in fear. Instead of the fear building up inside you, write it out. e.g I am fearful because……. You can do this with all other unhelpful feelings such as anger, frustration, and sadness. Writing it out is cathartic, making you feel lighter and helping to put things in perspective. You may also want to consider speaking to a counsellor.

Your employer or insurance policy may offer a free service or search the internet for local providers.

In summary, be proactive and build your resilience, connect with your support network, and keep the information you may need handy, instead of doing nothing and worrying about it.

Hansa Pankhania

By Email

Caught between the devil and deep blue sea Britain is going through worst crisis since WW2, on two fronts, economic and health, hospital wards are overflowing with patients suffering from coronavirus that has practically shut down our economy with millions depending on food aid and universal credit for basic needs.

Government is in dilemma, whether to resume economic activities, lifting embargo on movement, to end home confinement which may reignite coronavirus epidemic or continue with restrictions which is ruining economy with 35% expected downward trend on national GDP. There is no simple answer except wait and see how lifting restriction works in Spain and Italy.

If it works, does not reignite coronavirus epidemic, Britain may follow suit, otherwise we may have to live in limbo for a long time! These are self-inflicted wounds which could have been avoided!

Kumudini Valambia

By Email

Coronavirus damages Germany has asked China for £130 billion for economic loss, disruption, suffering of life due to the outbreak of the Wuhan coronavirus.

The British Government must make a similar demand for economic and domestic loss including compensation to the family who lost their bread-winner or their member. The disease has wreaked havoc all round.

China blatantly ignored its scientists’ research and findings and deceived the world health body.

President Trump showed his ennoble leadership by suspending US funding to WHO. China's deception has put lives at risk. It has failed to give assurances that its wet markets have been permanently closed.

The United Nations must put pressure on the Chinese Government to shut down all its wet markets and bring to an end the killing of animals too.

Ramesh Nehru

By Email

Nominate an individual or community group for the fantastic work There is no doubt we are living in strange and uncertain times, but I am very impressed by how people across the city are adapting to the current situation.

Usually in April the Lord Mayor would be reflecting on their mayoral year as they prepare to hand over the robes to a new Lord Mayor, who is officially installed during the council’s Annual General Meeting, which was due to take place next month.

However, now that meeting has been cancelled, it is a bittersweet surprise to find myself looking ahead to keeping this ceremonial seat a little longer – but most of all, it is an honour to continue serving Birmingham as First Citizen until the time that the AGM can take place.

I will continue to support the city, be it with messages, clapping for carers on Thursday evenings, and hearing about all the unsung heroes working tirelessly and selflessly to keep Birmingham safe during this pandemic.

As you may know, I like to be kept busy and am keen to continue writing letters of thanks to all the people being nominated for recognition.

So if you wish to nominate an individual or community group for the fantastic work being done to keep our spirits up, our services running and our loved ones safe, please email me at lord.mayor@birmingham.gov.uk.

Again thank you for all you are doing in such challenging circumstances and showing what a caring, friendly city Birmingham is. Take care and stay safe.

Cllr Mohammed Azim Lord Mayor of Birmingham Birmingham City Council (As originally published on council blog)

Awake Indians and Hindus 492 Indian origin people have died due to Covid 19. Indian population in the uk is (817,000) 1.5%, the deaths disproportionately represent 3%.

Labour under Sir Keith Starmer on Friday had organised a digital round table meeting inviting the representatives from the Muslim Council, Black organisations, Sikh and the Jewish organisations but omitting inviting any representation from the Indian community.

Same policy as was under Jeremy Corbyn, succumbing to pressure from the hard left.

Yet we are on the front line of the NHS. 1.5% Indians contribute to 6% of the GDP Keith Starmer apologises to the Jewish community for anti-semitism, but no apology to Indians or the Hindu community for their anti-india and anti-Hindu stance.

Awake Indians and Hindus! Become active, put pen to paper and lobby your MP. Write to the media for any misrepresentations.

Prakash Shah Edgware

Newspapers are safe

Lessons to be learnt

With the spread of Covid-19, a number of rumours and myths have found way into our inboxes, which is as dangerous as the contagion itself because it can potentially lead to panic and hysteria among the people. One such unfounded rumour links the disease to newspapers, claiming that newspapers can act as carriers of coronavirus.

Health experts have said that there is no known risk of the spread of novel coronavirus through newspapers, busting rumours that have triggered a scare amongst one and many. The World Health Organization (WHO) has categorically confirmed that newspapers are safe and don’t pose any kind of danger owing to coronavirus.

In the wake of Covid-19 pandemic, till the vaccine is found, the only option to curb community transmission is by selfisolation.

Many in self-isolation are complaining that they are bored, confined within homes. They should compare their lives with those who fought for India’s freedom struggle.

They left the comfort of home, lucrative jobs and businesses and often landed in jails, lived in dark cells with no window to the outside world. They sat there and wrote world’s most inspirational books and often came out with smiling faces.

Today we have ample food, and latest technologies to look at or be in touch with anyone in the world. We need to be positive and must thank God, that we can do so much by staying back in comforts of our homes.

Suresh and Bhavna Patel Markham, Canada

Jubel D'Cruz

By Email

We are a family and we stand with all those who have lost their loved ones to this Corona Pandemic The news of the tragic departure of many of our brothers and sisters in the Corona epidemic is shocking.

Gujarat Samachar and Asian Voice believe in standing by your side at such a time and sharing your grief.We consider it as our duty to share your pain and playing our part , Gujarat Samachar and Asian Voice will publish a free death announcement of your near and dear ones with a short message, along with a small photograph.

Feel free to share such news with us.

Happy Birthday Jigar Shah

Team Gujarat Samachar and Asian Voices wishes Jigar Shah, son of our Senior Colleague, Jyotsna Shah and D. R. Shah a very Happy 50th Birthday.

Hope your 50th is just the beginning of amazing things to come. We wish you good health and happiness ahead.

Loads of Love and wishes from Wife: Namita Shah Daughter : Mansi Shah Son : Dhyan Shah

IN MEMORY OF Mrs Veena Nangla, cofounder of Brightsun Travel, passed away at the age of 71 on 6th April 2020.

Born in India in 1948, she graduated with an English degree and moved to London in 1966 after her marriage. She worked for various companies in accounts and the travel industry before co-founding her own business with her husband in 1986. She was an eminently respected businesswoman, having been at the helm of her company for 34 years running the accounts team as Finance Director, and won the Asian Businesswoman of the year award for her contribution as a female entrepreneur to the travel industry in 2014.

She will be remembered as a humble, loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother by her husband, three children and seven grandchildren. A compassionate, spiritual and charitable lady, in her memory, donations are gratefully received for the NHS Ashford and St Peter’s Hospital Foundation Trust that looked after her in her final days.

We are grateful to all letter writers for more and more versatile letters well within word limit.

Please keep contributing as always.

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LOOMBA FOUNDATION DONATES 100,000 SURGICAL FACE MASKS TO THE INDIAN GOVERNMENT TO FIGHT AGAINST COVID 19 Loomba Foundation, who is a To tackle the growing tireless advocate for poor and health pandemic of needy widows in India and COVID 19 and assist the around the world, explained, government of India to “For many years, we have been combat the challenge of committed to the cause of widlimited face masks in ows empowerment in India, as the country, the they are one of the most vulnerLoomba Foundation able sections of our society." has donated 1,00,000 Underlining why everyone surgical face masks to should play their part, Lord the National Institute Loomba CBE said, "As the world for Transforming India unites in these difficult and chal(NITI Aayog) lenging times, we wanted to play The surgical masks a small role to help those at the were effectively delivfront lines - our doctors, nurses, ered with close coordihealthcare and security profesnation with the Ministry sionals and Government repreof Health and Family sentatives need our support and Welfare to its nodal Lord Raj Loomba CBE basic amenities such as face company - HLL Lifecare Founder and Chairman Trustee, The masks."

Ltd, which is the main Loomba Foundation He further added," This was a agency for distribution of small gesture of the Foundation to help equip the personal protective equipment (PPE) and them in their fight against COVID- 19, which masks to COVID19 affected regions and popuwill go towards protecting many citizens as they lations. battle to look after the country.”

Mr. Amitabh Kant, CEO of NITI Aayog, Commenting on the Foundation’s initiative addressing the urgent need for the masks, took CB Patel, Chairman ABPL Group said, “These the opportunity to thank Lord Loomba CBE are unprecedented times. Within a span of 4-6 and The Loomba Foundation, saying, weeks the whole world has been turned upside "Philanthropic organisations such as yours can down. Businesses have been hit hard and many play a strong role in complementing the govwage earners are finding it difficult to feed ernment in these critical times by supporting us themselves and their families. So, any support in several ways. I am delighted with the initiato the Loomba Foundation’s initiative will go a tive and commitment shown by you and the long way in helping the Indian government’s Foundation by donating 1,00,000 surgical fight against COVID-19.” masks for distribution in much needed areas in If readers would like to donate please click India." on the link below: Lord Loomba CBE, Founder and Chairman https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/coronavirusindia Trustee of the UN accredited global NGO, The

NEWHAM COUNCIL JOINS MINUTES SILENCE IN HONOUR OF FALLEN KEY WORKERS Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz on Tuesday led councillors, staff and officers of Newham Council in observing a minute’s silence to honour the frontline NHS staff and key workers who have died from Corvid-19 since the start of the pandemic.

The Mayor, who was at the

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Council’s Dockside offices in Beckton, had asked other staff working remotely, to join the tribute from wherever they were working.

More than a hundred health and social care workers have lost their lives to the disease since the start of the crisis, and there will be many

more in key service areas like public transport who have, and continue to put themselves in harm’s way, so we can stay safe.

The Mayor said, “As a Council we wanted to pay our own tribute to the heroic workers who have lost their lives to Covid-19 as a result of

serving their communities during this desperate time.

“It was a very moving moment where we could all come together, not physically, but emotionally to say thank you to those who have paid for their service with their lives. They will not be forgotten.”

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SCRUTATOR’S Bill Gates hails PM Modi's leadership

the hospital, whether patient or staff on duty.” Senior officials at

senior IAS officers have been appointed as secretaries in different central government departments as part of the reshuffle. (The Times of India)

Govt plans to fly back Indians stuck abroad

Philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates wrote a letter to Narendra Modi, in which he lauded the prime minister over handling the Covid-19 pandemic in India. "We commend your leadership and the proactive measures you and your government have taken to flatten the curve of the Covid-19 infection rate in India, such as adopting a national lockdown, expanding focused testing to identify hot spots for isolation, quarantining, and care, and significantly increasing health expenditures to strengthen the health system response and promote R&D and digital innovation," says Bill Gates in the letter. "I'm glad your government is fully utilizing its exceptional digital capabilities in its Covid-19 response and has launched the Aarogya Setu digital app for coronavirus tracking, contact tracing, and to connect people to health services," he adds.

"Grateful to see that you're seeking to balance public health imperatives with the need to ensure adequate social protection for all Indians," he further states.

(The Times of India)

Bengal bans cellphones in hospitals

The West Bengal health department has banned use of cellphones inside hospitals treating suspected and positive Covid-19 cases across state. The order, passed last week and addressed to district magistrates, chief medical officers of health (CMOHs) and superintendents of Coviddedicated hospitals, said: “Since mobile phones can be a potential source of spreading Covid-19 infection, no one will be allowed to carry, possess or use mobile phones inside Covid hospitals in the state.

This applies to all persons inside

Swasthya Bhavan pointed out that a video clip, ostensibly recorded by a suspected Covid-19 patient at M R Bangur Hospital, had gone viral, prompting them to issue the order.

The video, shared extensively on social media, showed a body covered in a plastic sheet - lying on one of the beds at the hospital ward. “We have nothing to hide. It takes some time to remove a body, according to protocol. But mobile phones are not supposed to be used inside Covid-19 isolation wards,” said Sisir Naskar, superintendent at M R Bangur Hospital. (The Times of India)

Major bureaucratic reshuffle The government of India carried out a major reshuffle of its senior bureaucracy by appointing new secretaries to key ministries in the middle of coronavirus containment exercise. Health Secretary Preeti Sudan, due to retire on April 30, was given a three-month extension, and Rural Development Secretary Rajesh Bhushan was appointed as Officer on Special Duty (OSD) in the Health Ministry in the rank of secretary. He is likely to take over from Sudan after her extended tenure is over. Two Additional

Secretaries currently in the PMO were appointed Secretaries in key ministries. Tarun Bajaj will be the new Department of Economic Affairs Secretary after the incumbent Atanu Chakraborty retires at the end of this month, and Arvind Kumar Sharma will be Secretary in the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises upon retirement of incumbent Arun Kumar Panda on April 30.

Both the DEA and the MSME are expected to play critical roles in the revival of the economy in the wake of the outbreak. As many as 23

The government of India is planning to bring back Indians stranded in foreign countries. The Foreign Ministry, in coordination with the Civil Aviation Ministry, Air India, state governments and Indian missions abroad, has started planning for the evacuation of Indian nationals abroad who are looking to return home. While the consultations are on, the Indians will be flown back only after the nationwide lockdown to control the spread of coronavirus is lifted, government sources said. The evacuations will be made through special flights or regular flights once they resume and will vary from state to state, depending on the lockdown situation there, the sources added. The evacuations will be done on payment bases, with citizens having to pay for the flight tickets. There are thousands of Indians stranded abroad, especially in the Gulf, and there has been diplomatic pressure mounted on India by Gulf nations to take the Indian nationals back and "not exploit the hospitality being given to them" since March 24. (The Indian Express)

Migrants returning home A day after Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh announced plans to bring back their migrant workers stuck in other states, a

in Madhya Pradesh, the police said.

The child has been admitted to hospital in a critical state. She was playing with her friends close to her home when she was drawn away by an unknown man, the police say. She had been missing since then. She was found next morning. "She was raped and has severe injuries to her eyes," said senior police officer Hemant Singh Chauhan. "We have questioned many suspects and are working on some leads," he said. A police team has gone with the girl and her family to Jabalpur, where she is being treated for severe injuries all over her body. At a time when coronavirus has gripped the world and the country is in lockdown to fight its spread, the savage assault has stunned Madhya Pradesh. (The Times of India)

With not many people on roads to feed them, stray dogs in many areas are going hungry.

Consequently, monkeys and stray dogs are having a duel in different areas over food in case they are able to find it. “There is limited food as there are not many people on roads to feed the dogs. And even the monkeys are looking for their share of food as they too aren’t getting fed by citizens,” said Nidhi Dave, range forest officer, Vadodara. “So, both monkeys and stray dogs flock to the spots where some food is available and it is causing conflict that is also getting violent,” he said. In last few days, forest department has got nearly a dozen calls of monkeys getting injured by dog bites. (The Times of India)

Pay cut for Kerala govt staff

12-year-old walks 100 km to reach home, dies

Brushing aside protests by the opposition and staff associations, the Kerala cabinet has decided to go ahead with a proposal to cut a month’s salary of all government employees drawing more than Rs 20,000, including doctors and nurses, in five equal installments from May to September. This works out to a deduction of six days’ pay each month. CM Pinarayi Vijayan said the government was “not in a position to heed the protests” against the proposed pay cut. “Proportionate salary for six days of a month will be deducted. In this fashion, 30 days’ salary will be cut over five months. This will be applicable to state government employees, teachers, university staff and

A 12-year-old tribal girl died after walking 100km with her family from Telangana to reach their native village in Bijapur district in Chhattisgarh. The family, which worked in Telangana’s chilli farms, trekked through difficult terrain and Maoist-dominated areas, but Jeeta Madkami died 50km short of home. CM Bhupesh Baghel has announced a donation Rs 500,000 for the family. “The child was in a group of 11people, who had gone to Telangana to pluck green chillies in farms. After walking for three days, she died due to electrolyte imbalance in her body,” Bijapur chief medical health officer B R Pujari said. (The Indian Express)

States build walls, trenches on borders

coordinated exercise began to ensure the same. While 2,000-odd boarded buses in Haryana for western UP, around a similar number headed home from Gujarat for MP. On a smaller scale, Himachal Pradesh organised return of Kashmiri labourers stuck in the state. Haryana DGP Manoj Yadava said, “the movement of migrant labourers was organised after mutual consultation between the two state governments”. Yadava said that UP had got the movement cleared with the Union Home Ministry. “The Central government has said that if the states, with mutual consultation, decide to send/receive migrants, it has no problem. Their only clause is that quarantine should have been completed.” MP, which estimates that nearly one lakh of its migrants are stranded, has started getting them back first from neighbouring Gujarat and Rajasthan. (The Times of India)

Savage assault on six-year-old A six-year-old girl was raped and her eyes gouged out by the attacker near her home in Damoh

workers of all state public sector units and government undertakings. However, employees drawing less than Rs 20,000 a month are exempted.”

The government has resorted to this step to cope with the financial crunch faced by it following the lockdown. (The Indian Express)

Dogs and monkeys fight over limited food

Vadodara streets have been witnessing a rare fight that not many had expected. Since lockdown was enforced last month to contain the spread of coronavirus, movement of citizens has been restricted in public areas.

Officials in the border district of Vellore, Tamil Nadu, recently build two concrete walls on roads near the Andhra border to prevent people from moving from one state to the other amid the Covid19 pandemic. Not only did this hinder traffic to Vellore, famous for its super-specialty medical services, it also blocked the movement of at least 10,000 litres of milk to Andhra. After the walls came up, dairy farmers in Vellore were forced to take a circuitous route. Even the the Odisha government had also dug up some border roads after Srikakulam district in Andhra Pradesh started reporting Covid-19 cases recently.

The digging went largely unnoticed until when a pregnant tribal woman had to be carried on a bamboo shaft across the trench to reach a hospital. Andhra officials were quick to object, calling up their counterparts in Tamil Nadu and Odisha and telling them not to put up concrete walls and dig up highways as these can lead to a crisis during a medical emergency.

Following the objection, the officials in Tamil Nadu and Odisha, finally agreed to remove the objections and restore traffic.

(The Times of India)

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2 May - 8 May 2020

Sikh man inspired by Captain Sparkle hosts fundraising Tom Moore fundraises for NHS ball for care workers

Priyanka Mehta

A 73-year-old Sikh man has been inspired by Captain Tom Moore to fundraise for NHS staff amid the coronavirus outbreak after consistent reports of a shortage of Protective Personal Equipment (PPE) and testing kits. Now, Rajinder Singh from Berkshire, Southern England has drawn inspiration from the World War II veteran, to “skip” his lockdown days to fundraise £14k for the NHS frontline workers.

“I want to be able to help the NHS in saving lives while they put their lives to risk and treat those positive of coronavirus. For this, I have started doing five-minute skipping sessions every day in the lockdown. I am not an expert but from a very young age, my father taught me to live a disciplined life with running sessions and following a strict diet. Today, honestly it's like running three kilometers. Just skipping inside your house or in your garden.

You don't even need trainers, just a rope and be careful not to hurt yourself, sprain your ankle in the process," said Singh.

With the help of his daughter Minreet, Singh has been uploading short videos where he is seen performing various activities across social media platforms from the handle "the skipping Sikh".He has also been working on his strength by lifting heavy watering cans and sprinting through his allotment. Additionally, he has engaged himself in gardening and following an organically nutritious diet. As Asian Voice went to print, Singh informed us that he had fundraised about £8k off his target of £14k following the journey of Captain Tom Moore who has raised over $23 million for the NHS by walking 100 laps of his garden. Speaking about the fortunes of having access to a garden, Singh said, "We are fortunate to have gardens in our backyard and all this combined has helped us maintain our physical

and mental strength. Not everyone is as fortunate. We can't go running. We can't get together so we have to do it in the house and obey the government’s guidelines around social distancing. Help others and help yourself by not spreading this thing," he reenforced.

Speaking about the inspiring Sewa and contributions of his father Minreet Kaur said, “I am proud of my dad because he is a role model who has inspired many worldwide. He is doing selfless Sewa (volunteering) to help others, he isn't taking anyone's donations to support him, but he simply wants to give back and his story has travelled the world and as a Sikh man who stands out because he is unique and in a good way he has made a huge difference in lives, people are motivated and inspired by him.

“We can all learn something from my dad, he doesn't help others to want anything back. If we can all lend a helping hand to someone, the world would be in a better place. Life is short and do your good because it costs nothing to put a smile on someone's face.

To help Rajinder raise fund, please see: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Raj -Singh6

Complications in collating BAME deaths Coronavirus has disproportionately impacted individuals from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community with ICNARC reports indicating that over 16% of people from BAME communities have been infected by the virus.

Of the 16% who passed away from coronavirus; 3% are Indian-origin, 2.1 % Pakistani, and 0.6% Bangladeshi.

Chandu Tailor Despite the announcement of an inves- Bhai Amrik Singh tigation into higher BAME deaths by the “Public bodies are almost certainly in Downing Street earlier last month, there has breach of the Equality Act by not collecting been no concrete breakdown of data providcomprehensive ethnicity data, especially ed by the ONS or the NHS with regards to the when it appears obvious that ethnicity number of people dying across different borappears to be a factor.” oughs whilst factoring in their age, ethnicity In the meantime, Asian funeral directors and medical conditions. Yet, approximate numbers from media reports suggest that have also reported an increase in the number densely populated boroughs of Tower of funeral requests from families. Chandu Tailor, Director of Chandu Tailor & Sons Hamlets, Harrow, Brent, and across major funeral services in a statement to Asian Voice cities of Manchester and Birmingham.

Reports of Sikhs and Muslims contracting the said, “In recent times, we have seen an virus have especially increased in the last few weeks. On 23 March 2020 Preet Kaur Gill, the approximate 50% increase in the number of first female Sikh MP and Shadow funerals that we have been arranging every month.

International Development Secretary asked “The condition is so dire that grieving Health Secretary Matt Hancock how many families are expected to wait for at least two Sikhs had been diagnosed with Covid-19 and died because of the disease. Speaking about weeks before the funeral of a deceased is arranged. There is no shortage of mortuaries the subject, Bhai Amrik Singh, Chair of the or cremation centres in London. However, Sikh Federation (UK) said, the delay in funerals can be attributed to the “The government, health bodies, and other public bodies have known for some lengthy procedure of death registrations, time that Covid-19 is impacting dispropor- especially in cases where people are dying at tionately on ethnic minorities. For the Health care homes or their homes and ascertaining the cause of death can be complicated when Minister to claim not to have any data is at the NHS is already short-staffed.” best negligent or possibly dishonest.

Kickstarted on 13th April 2020, a group of industrial professionals have teamed up to host the the annual Care Sector Fundraising Ball for 1.6 million UK care workers.

The Care Sector Ball Committee is led by Committee Chair Avnish Goyal and in their third year, they have designed a Sparkle for Social Care campaign designed to shed light on the incredible work of the social care sector, especially in the unprecedented circumstances owing to Coronavirus. Speaking about the initiative, Avnish Goyal said, “It is our intention to shift our focus to where it is needed most during this difficult time, by recognising the value of those who work on the frontline of our sector – the care workers. As a nation, the best way we can do this is by celebrating their SPARKLE and donating what we can to support them.

“Care workers are at the frontline of this, some two million of them are caring for the most vulnerable people in our society who are most susceptible to the disease. If a care worker needs to self-isolate, they will fall into desperate need.”

The Care Workers Charity (CWC) is often the last line of defence for care workers, offering crisis grants. In 2019, CWC awarded 532 grants worth just over £181,000 from a total 1,400 applications. There is a significant need among care workers who require support and because of the current crisis their needs are not addressed unfortunately. The Charity is seeing a 1000% increase in the amount of grant applications received from carers in financial need and

thus CWC needs extra funds for extra emergency grants.

Sparkle for Care is a fast growing momentum, and as part of the campaign members from across the sector have been encouraging contacts, friends, family and the public to wear some sparkly, share a photo, make a donation, and ultimately join the nation in thanking staff across the care sector for all their hard work.

In 2018 The Care Sector Ball raised a total of £148,000, with the 2019 Ball raising £200,000 for the Charities, including CWC. Not only that, but with 50 tables in the room we were delighted to see over 100 different companies and organisations represented from across the sector.

Plans for 2020 are even bigger and, so far, tables are almost sold out. As a committee, we aim to help CWC reach their £1m target.

The dedicated JustGiving fund page – https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Sp arkle-for-Social-Care – is channelled into the incredible appeal launched by The Care Workers Charity to raise £1m.

14 UK

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Heart-breaking WW1 story of Indian Lieutenant made public for the first time The remarkable story of an airman who overcame prejudice to become one of only a handful of Indian fighter pilots in the First World War, can be retold thanks to newly released archive files. The heart-breaking tale of Lieutenant Shri Krishna Chanda Welinkar is one of thousands of stories from the First World War preserved in family correspondence in the Commonwealth War Graves Commission’s (CWGC) archive.

The stories are now being made available to the public for the first time. A revamped online portal will also make digital access to CWGC’s unique archive resource easier than ever.

The never-before-published files contain thousands of letters, pictures and other papers sent between the Commission and the next of kin of First World War dead.

By digitising and releasing these files over the course of the year it is hoped a new generation of researchers and students will be able to understand the impact of losing loved ones during the First World War. Amongst these is Shri Krishna Chanda Welinkar, who hailed from Bombay, India. Welinkar eventually became a pilot and went missing while on patrol over the skies above the Western Front in June 1918.

His family would have to wait nearly three years before they finally knew for certain that he had died, and his grave was located.

Following the 1918 Armistice the then Imperial War Graves Commission began the mammoth task of building cemeteries and memorials for the 1.1 million Empire war dead, more than half of whom were missing.

During this early period of the Commission’s work, tens of thousands of letters and appeals were exchanged with families wanting to know where their sons and husbands had been laid to rest or commemorated.

Many would struggle to deal with the lack of closure and their efforts to locate a dead or missing relative are played out over decades of correspondence that can now be viewed online thanks to this digitisation project from CWGC. The records – known as enquiry files – are part of a collection of nearly 3,000 files which never been made available to the public before. Nearly half have been digitised so far, alongside a previously unreleased collection of more than 16,000 photographs held in negatives in the Commission’s archive.

Lieutenant Shri Krishna Chanda Welinkar Lieutenant Shri Krishna Chanda Welinkar was one of 1.3 million Indians who answered the call to fight for the British Empire. Nearly 74,000 of these men would never see their homeland again and are remembered today in cemeteries and memorials throughout the world, including France, Belgium, the Middle East and Africa.

Welinkar was a well-educated man studying at Cambridge University. He trained to become an aviator in Middlesex and wished to join the Royal Flying Corps (later known as the Royal Air Force). Upon attempting to enlist, Welinkar encountered the same prejudices as his other fellow Indian airmen and was encouraged to become an air mechanic instead.

He was eventually given a commission in the Royal Flying Corps as an Officer. In 1918, he was posted to France and patrolled the skies above the Western Front. In June 1918, Lieutenant Welinkar embarked on what would be his final patrol; he did not return and was reported missing.

His fate remained unknown for many months afterwards.

The E-files chronicle the remarkable discovery of Welinkar and his final resting place long after the war had ended. Colonel Barton, who knew Welinkar, acted on behalf of his mother and helped find her missing son.

They spoke to former enemies and honed their search to the grave of an unidentified man, buried by the Germans as “Oberleutnant S.C. Wumkar” in a grave in Rouvroy.

The body was later moved and reinterred in Hangard Communal Cemetery Extension but it wasn’t until the vital clue, found in the original German burial records in February 1921, that it was confirmed beyond doubt this grave was Welinkar.

In May 1921 Colonel Barton, on behalf of Welinkar’s mother, requested that a Commission headstone be placed on the grave with the following personal inscription: “TO THE HONOURED MEMORY OF ONE OF THE EMPIRE’S BRAVEST SONS” The stories of Lieutenant Welinkar and the other Indian airmen who fought for the British Empire may reflect a relatively small part of India’s role in the First World War. However, the part of Welinkar’s story recorded in the Commission’s Archive shows that his grave was of equal importance to all of the war dead commemorated by the Commission and was to be treated in a manner that, in the words chosen by his family for his personal inscription, respected the memory of ‘one of the Empire’s bravest sons’.

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission Andrew Fetherston, chief archivist for CWGC, said, “For everyone who died in the First World War there was inevitably a partner, parent or child back home who had questions. The heart-breaking letters in CWGC’s archive give us an insight into what it was like for those families trying to come to terms with their loss. They are stories that show desperate searches for closure, former enemies uniting and, on many occasions, the sad realisation that a missing loved one would always remain so. We are pleased to be able to make this invaluable piece of World War history accessible to a new generation and help deepen our understanding of how the First World War impacted those who were left behind.”

The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) commemorates the 1.7 million Commonwealth servicemen and women who died during the two World Wars. It also holds and updates an extensive and accessible records archive. The Commission operates in more than 23,000 locations in more than 150 countries and territories.

To view CWGC’s archive through the new online portal visit: https://www.cwgc.org/history-andarchives/cwgc-archive

Instinct of survival amongst the adversity Rohit Vadhwana If you have watched movies involving theft, heist or robbery, the common element in them is the optimistic belief of a thief or robber. Every thief or robber, the main protagonist of the film, weighs chances of a successful escape and the possibility of being caught. He begins the crime only when hope for success is overwhelmingly high. This happens in spite of whatever robust security measures taken to protect the property. Those who protect the property, insure it, safeguard it, have optimism on their part as well: it cannot be stolen or raided. They also believe in the security system of the government.

Still, in the end, theft, heist or robbery is successful.

Because it's a movie and our hero is involved in the crime, the audience considers it a successful act. Feeling attached with the protagonist, and wishing that police doesn’t catch him.

It raises several questions for us. All of them are important life lessons.

Why does the protagonist feel he or his gang could steal or rob the jewel? Because of the inherent human nature. Our basic instinct is survival. Even a person drifting in the middle of an ocean, on a broken boat, with no other ship in sight, hopes he could survive. An adventurer, climbing Mount Everest in freezing cold, all adversities, feels he could conquer the nature and return safely.

This hope and instinct of survival amongst the adversities make the hero believe he could beat all the odds and steal the jewel.

How the protagonist deceives security? Through meticulous planning and bravado. He knows no miracle will save him. He has to study the security system in detail. More than the system owner himself. So that he can find a loophole. Discipline is important in his planning and execution. He has to be not only brave but a kind of daredevil, risk-taker. Only he can take the risk of going inside the trap. It makes him successful.

Why do we sympathise with the protagonist, a thief?

Because he is the person who is shown as working hard.

Who is pictured as taking a risk? He is the person who remains in front of our eyes from beginning to end of the film. His faults seem acceptable to us. He arouses the desire for success within us. He gives us an escape from reality. We do not want to live in the monotonous belief that once security is installed, things are settled forever.

Our protagonist is the person who challenges it. Human nature like to take the challenge. We like the change. The protagonist offers us such a challenge and change.

These three questions and their answers are true for human nature in any circumstances: ■ Instinct of survival amongst the adversity ■ Meticulous planning and disciplined implementation ■ Challenging the strong Relate them to our situation. Will our instinct of survival win? Will our planning and discipline win against the so-called undefeatable? Will we be able to challenge the strong successfully?

(Expressed opinion is personal)

Bollywood legend celebrated in new book by Brit-Indian author British Indian Author Saurav Dutt has released a new book about the life and career of the legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan. The novel follows a twelve year old boy from the poorest district of Mumbai, his cinematic obsession with the star and his dreams to help bring his family out of poverty, often emulating the angry young man of “Zanjeer”, the tragic antihero of “Deewar” and the entertainer of “Amar Akbar Anthony.”

Dutt is an Author, Political Columnist and Human Rights Campaigner. His acclaimed debut novel 'The Butterfly Room' explored issues of domestic violence and homophobia within South Asian communities and has been showcased alongside leading

political figures and human rights campaigners.

The boy even gets the chance to meet his idol, but is forced to come to terms with the reality of his aspirations, the complexities of a modern India, a judgmental society as well as following his own journey to overcome adversity.

The book promises to be an illuminating analysis of the nature of Indian, Asian, and global stardom and overcoming one’s own challenges.

Dutt, who released a tribute to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre at the House of Lords in England on its centenary in April last year, said, “Amitabh Bachchan is a superstar in the truest sense of the word. His name and face have taken over the hearts of minds of

people around the world for over 50 years. I’m hoping this uplifting story will be a real treasure trove for fans and newbies alike, exploring an industry where fashions change every Friday and understanding why and how Amitabh Bachchan has been synonymous with cinematic entertainment for so long.

“The novel will not be purely about the star but talks to the shape of the modern India, how poverty, class and religion fits within the shape of dreams of this rising superpower, as well as the virtues of Bachchan himself, which the boy in the story wishes to emulate.”

Dutt added, “Most of [his] virtues — like professionalism, determination, a never-say-die

attitude — are traits which one can follow to achieve the ‘Excellence’ everyone aspires for. I wanted to talk about the farming crisis in India, how someone like Amitji sails through different phases of life — the good, the bad and the ugly, about how hopes and dreams-especially in today’s Indiarequire unwavering determination, willpower, patience and a disposition to take it all in one’s stride.

“This story is not just about Amitabh Bachchan, but also about a young, vibrant and ambitious India-encapsulated through the character of a boy who is told by everybody that success if not for people like him.”

Dutt resides in the United Kingdom and Kolkata.

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BRITISH-ASIANS WARY OF CONTACT TRACING APPS touch with their contacts as “A contact tracing well.” This includes equal app will help curb the representation from people second wave of coronfrom different communities, avirus pandemic if there to address sensitive and culwere to be one as predictturally important informaed.

“But tracing will have tion. to be further assisted by Dr Bhattacharjee added, rampant testing- which “Asians are culturally differis not happening at the ent. We can’t self-isolate moment- besides other exactly how non-Asians protective measures would do. We live with already in place,” said Dr. extended families. Our elderRajay Narain, consultant Dr Parijat Bhattacharjee, Dr Rajay Narain, Nazek Ramadan, Director, ly are dependent on us – cardiologist at St. Consultant across North more than others. Explaining Consultant Cardiologist, St. Migrant Voice George’s Hospital, London & George’s University West London hospitals contact tracing to such a vulDirector Global Health nerable community is hard.

Hospital, London in a including Northwick Park, Alliance Central Middlesex and Ealing Moreover, there is a language statement to Asian Voice. barrier and a problem with However, Dr Parijat Covid-19 patients on March 12 after it taking instructions seriously. GP surgeries Bhattacharjee, a Consultant across North reported the government about commucould send letters to explain things better.

West London hospitals including nity transmission. The government and Northwick Park, Central Middlesex and But the most important is to explain how the NHS, therefore, turned to technology Ealing said, “Tests and more tests are defcontact-tracing and tests work – culturalwhere they piloted a contact tracing operinitely the answer. But with the Asian ly sensitively and in one’s own language ation at an RAF base camp in North community, whether they are elderly or through mediums like ethnic media, Yorkshire last week. youngsters, language and cultural barriers places of worship and community organiThe app works by relying on are major problems. And with that, consations.”

Bluetooth signals to log when smarttact tracing through apps may not be the phone owners are close to each other - so single best solution for all. They may not Undocumented migrants and data if someone develops Covid-19 symptoms, even understand what is being told or protection an alert is sent to other users they may misunderstand the message. have infected. This involves technical “We need community help for conAn Ipsos Mori polling commissioned complexities. tact tracing, for example- the government by the Financial Times indicated that at Person ‘x’, provided he has installed could take the help of newspapers and least two-thirds of Britons were prepared this app, is required to keep his Bluetooth other media sources that cater to that parto let the government rollout with this on. Similarly, when person ‘x’ meets other ticular community to spread awareness or model. However, the same poll does not people, even they are required to keep collect and transmit informations. Others indicate the status of illegal immigrants, their Bluetooth on for the app to successlike community organisations and places and those who are in transit with the fully identify the contagions. Now, a of worship could also help.”

Home Office in securing their right to recent poll suggested that 80% of smartremain in the UK. This includes a signifiphone users in the UK will be required to Emulating South Korea and Singapore’s cant population of individuals from the download any such app for contact tracBlack, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) success ing to provide basic information for it to community living in densely populated be scientifically useful. Under the current cities of Birmingham and Manchester Through this app, the British governGDPR rights, people are advised to keep besides other boroughs of Brent, Tower ment hopes to emulate the success of their Bluetooth off for the fear of fraudcountries such as South Korea and Hamlets and Harrow in London. Getting sters who are accessing personal data and Singapore where the pandemic has these individuals to download an app and information registered on their phones. accosted in a cumulative 300 deaths share their personal information will be a Contact tracing within the Asian (South Korea- 240 deaths and Singaporeherculean challenge for the Home Office. community, that has been hit the highest 12 deaths) approximately as of Tuesday Nazek Ramadan is the Director of among the BAME, is a difficult job. Many 28th April. This has bolstered the health Migrant Voice. Speaking to Asian Voice elderly people, who are most vulnerable, secretary Matt Hancock to believe that she said, do not use smartphones to its full capaciweeks of self-isolation will result in a sig“Many migrants, especially those ty. Even if they do, persuading them to use without documents, will be reluctant to nificant decline in the infection rates. The it is a challenge in itself. The most vulneruse any such app. They are fearful of shargovernment believes that the app will, able ones will switch off mobile data and ing any information about therefore, assist health authorities in themselves with any monitoring and tracking new emergKEY POINTS TO REMEMBER ing cases, as the UK prepares to gradGovernment department or ually ease the lockdown. But, medipublic institution, scared that cal experts warn the government of ■ A recent poll suggested that around 80% of smartphone this data could be passed on realistic results to its optimistic poli- users in the UK will be required to download apps for and used to detain or deport contact tracing to provide basic information for it to be them. cy.

“The model has been successful scientifically useful.

“Decades of hostile immiin South Korea and Singapore. But ■ Policy makers must adopt privacy-focused options gration policies – many of which are enabled by the very bear in mind these countries had rel- ensuring everything is equal, open and transparent. atively lower population densities as ■ Government needs to recruit huge teams who are cul- act of data-sharing, between and the opposed to the UK. More fundamen- turally aware and sensitive, to do the detective work of landlords tally, they had imposed all protective compiling the contacts of new patients, using follow-up Government, the police and measures- social distancing, contact interviews to check for symptoms of the virus and poten- the Home Office – have left trust at a very low level. Even if tracing, rampant testing-much tially getting in touch with their contacts as well. before the scale of the spread of the ■ Government needs to ensure there is no racial profiling security and anonymity could virus had overwhelmed the govern- and increasing prejudices because of contact tracing be 100% guaranteed and datasharing 100% ruled out, many ment. This was successful because among certain BAME communities. they had very few Covid-19 positive ■ Apps based gathering and transmitting information undocumented migrants cases when they implemented this may not be adequate in Asian communities. A need for would still not use this app. larger and wider campaigns through advertisements in system.

“And this isn’t based on “Now, the UK has already regis- ethnic newspapers, word of mouth, community organisa- pure speculation. The UK Government had announced tered over 140,000 positive Covid-19 tions and places of worship are key to absolute success. treatment for Covid-19 to be cases. For weeks the health secretary free of charge for everyone, regardless of has been aspiring to achieve the ambitious bluetooth to save battery and cost of using their status. Reports also surfaced that target of testing 100,000 people daily and mobiles. So how do you trace them? data-sharing between the NHS and failed to meet them. You need to test Then there is a valid fear of racial proHome Office has supposedly largely more people for the app to work. The govfiling and increasing prejudices. As the stopped. But many undocumented ernment website, which was inducted for Tony Blair Institute for Global Change migrants are still too scared to access key workers to be screened, has been has pointed out that “policymakers must treatment and come forward in admitting crashing on and off. Under such circumadopt privacy-focused options when all stances the government has to design a other things are equal, and recommend they are asymptomatic of Covid-19. A multi-factorial approach in handling Filipino migrant known as Elvis was one open and transparent.” coronavirus,” continued Dr Narain. of those – he died from Covid-19 in his Financial Times has added that manhome earlier this month because he was ual work is key to trace new infections. It afraid he would be charged for his treatProblem with the Asian community said, “Governments will need to hire huge ment and reported to the authorities.” teams to do the detective work of compilRecently, Germany became the first Public Health England had stopped ing the contacts of new patients, using folEuropean country to retract its decision the traditional contact-tracing approach low-up interviews to check for symptoms around a centralised contact tracing app of interviewing and testing asymptomatic of the virus and potentially getting in

Salute to the beautiful humans

Subhash V Thakrar

As they say, you come out with the best in extreme pressure.

Well, with the pandemic right amongst us, many of us have never experienced any thing like such a crises in our lives.

I cannot recall anything that remotely resembles a world crises of this nature.

This is as extreme as it can go. How cruel can is it when you can not even touch your loved ones and in many cases you cannot even be with them at the time when their soul leaves their body.

In some ways this is somewhat a welcome experience in my life as otherwise I would never appreciate what what a pandemic really is. This is an invisible vapour that has turned the world upside down in the way that our living generations would not have imagined.

There is always a silver lining with any crisis. And I observe that this silver lining is the unprecedented and wonderful humanitarian acts from the wide range of community.

Such behaviour would never have been witnessed were it not for the COVID crises.

Look at the example of Captain Tom, who at 99 years of age has managed to raise more than £28 m just by walking the length of his garden for 100 times. He only hoped to raise £1000. What a great human initiative but also what an amazing community that has willingly contributed from their own resources.

Have we ever seen an act when millions of people step out of their homes at the same time, separate yet together, and clap for the NHS workers or for anyone! This is is when there may not even be any NHS staff nearby to listen! In normal times, one would only describe this as an act of fools.

In India with the population of 1.3 billion, the Prime Minister Modi was able to sway the whole country to switch off their lights and light a lamp at exactly 9 pm and for 9 minutes! Simply astonishing. I must admit that such acts have brought tears in my eyes and a glow of hope in my heart. The vibrations of such acts spread wishes of goodwill and human power in to the Universe.

So many people have started initiatives of giving in the community whether it is delivering hot meals , fruits or toiletries for the NHS staff or running soup kitchens and free food for the needy.

Simple people like Pankaj Shah, a safari operator in Nairobi has spearheaded a voluntary effort to feed 24,000 families in Kenya. This is a pure selfless task which has attracted donations of money and food from many Kenyans, both black and Asians.

Then there are temples and organisations like Iskcon, Jalaram mandir and Bramhakumaris who are providing incredible and dedicated support by conducting prayers using the zoom app. I have to mention the dedication of Vinubhai Kotecha, who has been in the front line in supporting families when they have lost their family member by conducting the last rights at home and at the crematorium using modern technology.

Simple acts of my nephew, Raaj in High Wycombe, to deliver a leaflet in all residences in a close where he was doing a delivery to an elderly customer, requesting all other residents to come out at a specific time to give a big applause wishing a happy 90 th birthday for the customer’s husband are so nice to see. She said this was the best birthday celebration that her husband had ever had!

We have beautiful human beings amongst us. I salute them! for curbing coronavirus. Today, as Asian Voice went to print, reports emerged that the UK's coronavirus contact-tracing app is set to use a different model to the one proposed by Apple and Google, despite concerns raised about privacy and performance.

NHSX, the digital arm of the NHS has opted for a "centralised model" - meaning that the matching process, where the matching process will happen through computer servers as opposed to the phones to send alerts. As a result, hundreds of the country's cryptography and computer security experts have signed an open letter calling for the government to reconsider the model.

Regardless of the model used, health authorities await definitive evidence to support the narrative that contact tracing apps help in curbing coronavirus.

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BAPIO Wales members elected to advice Welsh government regarding BAME high mortality rates BAPIO (British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin) has recently written to NHS England & Wales about the Covid-19 related high mortality rates amongst the Black and Minority Ethnic (BAME) population.

BMA, BBC, ITV, Sky and various other organisations including Asian Voice have also highlighted the issue and in response the NHS England has instituted an inquiry.

Prof Keshav Singhal MBE A letter was sent to the Chief Dr Hasmukh Shah BEM Executives of all Local Health Boards (LHBs are responsible in 70% of all Covid19 deaths.

Wales for Health & Social Care of each “An analysis by Sky News found that area), First Minister of Wales, Health of the 54 front line health and social care Minister & Chief Medical Officer because workers in England and Wales that have of the concerns of Disproportionate high died because of COVID-19, 70% were mortality rates in BAME health profesblack or from an ethnic minority. Our sionals. own updated figures as of 17thApril show As a result BAPIO Wales Secretary, that 51 out of 71 NHS staff deaths from Dr Hasmukh Shah BEM and Chair, Prof Covid19 were BAME equating to71%. 15 Keshav Singhal MBE were elected along out of the 15 doctors who have died have other colleagues to advice Welsh been BAME. Government for urgent planning to deal “The available figures suggest that with above issues. Since last week, they being male, BAME and older adult along have had weekly Skype meetings with the with at least one co morbid condition Welsh Government. puts them at greater risk of mortality,” The letter sent to the health board in the letter highlighted.

Wales said, that given that the high It is a fact that BAME populations BAME mortality rate continues unabated have a higher incidence of known risk (3 senior Indian origin clinicians died on factors including visceral obesity, dia16 April 2020) BAPIO wishes to betes and metabolic syndrome. raisetheirconcerns with the employing According to CDC, these patients probahealth boards about this disproportionbly have 10 times risk of mortality. ate mortality amongst BAME frontline South Asian population has diabetic staff with suggestions to mitigate the rates around 3-5 times that of white popsame. ulation, hypertension and Ischaemic “The latest data from ICNARC Heart Disease, chronic lung disease reveals that 34% of the critically ill ITU including Asthma, COPD or chronic admissions are those of BAME which URTI and Vitamin D deficiency. above the national demographic of 14% It added, “While research is going on BAME population. and will take time to complete, it is vital “According to the Office for National that all of us take cognisance of these disStatistics, the age-specific mortality rate turbing trends and take urgent steps to (March 2020) due to the coronavirus mitigate against any further and unnec(COVID-19) increased significantly in essary tragedies.” each age group, starting from ages 55 to 59 years in males and ages 65 to 69 years Urgent Action Needed in females. Of the deaths involving COVID-19 that occurred in March 2020, The letter further spoke about how there was at least one pre-existing condithe Management of Health and Safety at tion in 91% of cases.

Work Regulations (1999 as amended) “Data from US shows mortality rates requires employers to ensure that work in black population approaching 50 to

environment is, as far as reasonably practicable, safe and without risks to health.

“Alongside that there should also have been an Equality Impact Assessment to determine whether particular groups of staff might be especially at risk and whether particular groups or communities might be at risk such as the poor (greater likelihood of chronic health conditions) or those from particular communities “The employers therefore have a legal, moral and ethical duty to provide a safe working environment for their employees and to perform a comprehensive risk assessment, given the health risks of COVID-19 pandemic.

Unless corroborated evidence is provided to suggest otherwise, existing data suggests that certain demographic characteristics, such as age, sex and race are major determinants of mortality from COVID19 infection. We can find no evidence of any such assessments being carried out.

“Hence, we expect employers to urgently carry out a stratified risk assessment so that those on the frontline of tackling the pandemic are not unnecessarily put in harm’s way. Likewise, the NHS has the legal and ethical obligation to ensure that retired and returning senior doctors and nurses are not given jobs that are front line facing.

“We hope you will take note of our concerns and take immediate action to address the safety of the NHS staff.

BAPIO will extend every support and assistance to you while we all deal with this national crisis.

“We will immediately advise our members of the following: They should not feel pressurised into putting themselves at unwarranted risk particularly with inadequate PPE, in view of the enhanced risk of mortality as noted above. They should notify their Line Manager and Occupational Health of their health problems and ask for an urgent risk assessment which needs to be fully documented and must receive appropriate training if redeployed to unfamiliar area.”

Every Mind Matters

Dr Sohom Das

Nadiya Hussain

Public Health England’s ‘Every Mind Matters’ platform has launched new advice, focussed on looking after people’s mental wellbeing during the coronavirus pandemic. It has been updated after new data shows over 4 in 5 (85.2%) people are worried about the effect that coronavirus is having on their life, with over half (53.1%) saying it was affecting their wellbeing and nearly half (46.9%) reporting high levels of anxiety.

Forensic Psychiatrist Dr Sohom Das told Asian Voice, “It is a natural kind of an anxiety to feel now. Spending time with the family, focussing and home-schooling your children, being in touch with your friends and family and finding hobbies, tasks and activities to engage yourself in will help. For a minority, it would be beyond normal levels of anxiety, who may have never experienced such high levels of stress and therefore they need to seek professional help.”

A range of new resources from ‘Every Mind Matters’, designed specifically to help manage our mental wellbeing during coronavirus, includes a tailored Covid-19 Mind Plan, Covid19 specific content for individuals and their loved ones, and support for specific mental wellbeing issues such as anxiety, stress, low mood and trouble sleeping. The website signposts people to activities such as mindful breathing exercises, help managing unhelpful thoughts, and muscle relaxation.

To help get this vital message out there, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are supporting ‘Every Mind Matters’ and have narrated a new short film which is being broadcast across national TV channels. The film portrays a range of people whose lives have been affected by Covid-19 and aims to reassure people that support is available and encourages everyone to take care of their mental wellbeing at this difficult time.

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said, “We have asked people to make unprecedented changes to their dayto-day lives as part of our national effort to respond to this global pandemic. Staying at home and not seeing friends and loved ones can take its toll and it is completely understandable to feel overwhelmed or anxious.

“It’s vital that we all look after our mental health in these challenging times, so today we are launching new guidance on the NHS Every Mind Matters website which is tailored to help people deal with this outbreak through practical tips and advice...”

Nadiya Hussain, Great British Bake off star and chef said, “Anxiety can be completely deafening, and right now those suffering with anxiety might be feeling it worse than ever. For me, reaching out to people, talking to my loved ones, helps manage it. You are not alone, a lot of people will also be feeling anxious and scared, and speaking about it with someone you trust will help challenge that anxiety and calm your fears. It's so important to recognise if you're struggling with your mental health, and seek out the support you need - and know that it's OK.”

Coeliac UK offers discount on its online catering course Coeliac UK will be celebrating all things gluten free with a week of online activities and, in support of the catering industry, is offering a special discount on its online catering course throughout the week 11-17 May. The online catering course was re-launched at the start of March, enabling both private and public sector caterers to meet the needs of the growing gluten free market. The charity is offering a 20% discount to any caterers who take the online course during its Gluten Free Community Week.

MasterChef Champion and Coeliac UK Ambassador Jane Devonshire said: “The online catering course is a great way to get staff to understand the needs of those requiring a gluten free diet when coming to your restaurant, cafe or bar. It is easy to do and underlines principals that everyone should have in place legally when offering a gluten free option on the menu.”

“Research shows that people with coeliac disease - and the family and friends they eat out with - are currently worth a potential £100 million a year to venues that can cater for them. So what a great time to do it now, so when everything opens you can hit the ground running offering great food to all your customers.”

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Vijay (right) with wife Rupal

The course, which takes approximately one and half hours to complete, is suitable for all food industry professionals in both the private and public sectors.

Possible symptoms in Coeliac disease may include severe diarrhoea, excessive wind and/or constipation, persistent or unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, recurrent stomach pain, cramping or bloating, iron, vitamin B12 or folic acid deficien-

cy, anaemia, tiredness, sudden or unexpected weight loss (but not in all cases), mouth ulcers, skin rash, repeated miscarriages, neurological (nerve) problems such as ataxia (loss of coordination, poor balance) and peripheral neuropathy (numbness and tingling in the hands and feet).

Coeliac disease is a serious autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system reacts to gluten found in food, making the body attack itself. 1 in 100 people in the UK has coeliac disease but half a million people in the UK are undiagnosed and average time to diagnosis it is 13 years. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. Some people are also sensitive to oats.

Last year in an interview with Asian Voice, Vijay Patel, in his mid 30s, described his experience of suffering from Coeliac disease.

Vijay, a complaint handler at AA, who suffered on and off for 18 months with ongoing symptoms of bloating, tiredness, feeling breathless, nausea and acid reflux told Asian Voice, “I was diagnosed with Coeliac disease in March 2017. It took me several months of visits to GP before finally being referred to a specialist- a gastrologist. After much of fact finding, family history, I was referred for endoscopy and a scan

of stomach. A small sample of the intestine was taken, and it was confirmed that I was intolerant to gluten.”

Vijay's wife Rupal, who is a pharmacist, had already started looking up, trying to find out what he should ideally be cautious of, while eating. “I could not eat anything that I have grown up eating- like samosas, rotis and I had withdrawal symptoms. Once we came to know about my gluten intolerance, it was hard to explain to parents. No one in the family had it before me.”

The diagnosis turned his life upside down and was very difficult to deal with and Vijay said without the support of his wife and family and friends, the emotional challenge of dealing with the condition would have been much harder.

Vijay, who is open about his condition to his office manager, gets much support from his work. He is active in raising awareness about the disease and tries to encourage people in different platforms. “Whether going out to a restaurant or meal at home with family, I always try to tell people that there is nothing to be threatened by the Coeliac disease. The more we raise awareness regarding Coeliac disease the more we can help each other, don’t be afraid to talk about it.”

MoneyGram launches 20% off all send fees for our NHS heroes

MoneyGram, a global leader in International Money Transfer, announces 20% off all send fees for NHS staff.

The offer is available either online or at Post Office and Tesco locations across the UK. NHS staff just need to bring their NHS ID and quote ‘NHSHERO’ when sending money at a location.

Tesco is also offering early opening hours on Tuesday’s, Thursday’s (8am – 9am) and Sunday’s (9am – 10am) so NHS staff can combine their grocery shopping and money transfer in one visit, making things a little easier.

Richard Meredith, Head of UK Key Partnerships at MoneyGram, said “We are proud to be supporting our NHS staff in these difficult times and are working closely with our long-term partners to make money transfer a little easier.”

The NHS offer is live on the MoneyGram app, online and in store from 20thApril 2020 and is valid until 30thJune 2020.

Labour leader appoints new race relations adviser, launches review

Sir Keir Starmer has appointed campaigner and Labour peer Doreen Lawrence to the post of race relations adviser and tasked her with leading a review into the impact of coronavirus on black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities.

One of the country's foremost campaigners for equality and justice, Lawrence has been asked by Labour’s new leader to investigate why the Covid-19 pandemic is disproportionately impacting people from BAME backgrounds.

Official figures show more than a third of people in intensive care from Covid-19 are from BAME backgrounds - almost triple the proportion of BAME people in the wider population.

All 14 doctors known to have died from the virus were from BAME backgrounds.

Lawrence and Starmer kicked off the review with a digital roundtable on Friday morning alongside Marsha de Cordova, Labour's Shadow Secretary of State for Women and Equalities.

Other experts at the meeting include Harun Khan (Muslim Council of Britain), Lord Simon Woolley (Operation Black Vote), Yvonne Coghill (Deputy President, RCN), Jas Khatkar (Sikh Network), Prof. David Katz (Jewish Medical Association) and Dr Chaand Nagpaul (Chair of the Council of the British Medical Association).

However, British Hindus are upset and demanding an explanation after the digital roundtable did not include a Hindu representative, despite the UK presence of organisations like Hindu Forum of Britain and Hindu Council of UK.

Potting it right: British Asians go green with their grandparents Coronavirus lockdown has driven many British Asians to turn into hobbyist gardeners as they look towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. Amid anxiety caused by collapsing businesses and with restrictions on social mobility, many have embraced nature in their backyards and front porches as they calm their nerves with natural compost. Jaspreet Kaur, a spoken word artist, and her husband are among the few British Asians getting earth under their nails.

Inspired by her husband’s grandmother, Jaspreet explains how the lockdown has provided the couple with the perfect opportunity of bonding with their family members while engaging in cultivating activities. Speaking to Asian Voice, she said, “We like to believe that our naniji (grandmother) has “green fingers” because everything that she plants, grows beautifully. Whilst we are still amateurs, our grandmother has taught us how to plant bitter gourd, something that is very famous in the Punjabi cuisines. If you have bought bitter gourd from your local cash and carry or supermarket shops, then you just need to scoop out the seeds and plant them in any pot with natural compost.”

Ever since the UK government announced the lockdown due to coronavirus pandemic, prices of exotic Indian vegetables have soared. This can in part be attributed to the massive increase in importing and procuring these raw vegetables from countries such as India and Kenya in Africa. Another strand to this justification remains around the temporary closure of cash and carry shops such as the Kingsbury Fruit & Veg where the owners and staff were concerned about the risks of contracting the infection and therefore decided to shut shop for a few days. But even as the UK looks at easing lockdown restrictions, British Asians are wary about the possibility of a second coronavirus pandemic wave.

Not knowing where to begin from,

Jaspreet and her husband, therefore, ordered a box of vegetable seeds from Amazon. Jaspreet said, “We did not know what we wanted to grow so, we ordered a variety of vegetables online. We began planting them in small pots as we had a greenhouse in our garden.

Eventually, we started planting other root vegetables such as potatoes, onions, and carrots in vegetable beds and monitoring their cycles.

“But even if you don’t have huge gardens, you can still grow leafy vegetables in pots that can be placed on your kitchen window sills provided there is plenty of sunlight coming through. From spinach, lettuce, rocket leaves to herbs such as coriander, parsley, and mint which are traditionally used in Indian cooking, these can be easily planted in small pots as they don’t require lots of space to spread out.”

The primary sources of gardening literature for the couple are YouTube tutorials, vlogs, and social media blogs with YouTube channel GrowVeg being their favourite. The couple are even picking up expert gardening advice from books such as ‘How to grow in your garden’, ‘How to grow in small vegetable beds’ besides other channels of information. However, she is quick to recognise that most of this content online and offline is predominantly generated by white British authors and influencers who may not have the insight and expe-

Jaspreet Kaur

rience into growing Asian fruits and vegetables. Commenting about the lack of diversity in this area, she said, “There is not an Asian Voice that we have come across providing tips on how to grow exotic Asian vegetables such as Okra in the British climate. My husband and I are in the initial stages of gardening but going forward we may think of providing some reference material for our British Asian community.”

Jaspreet is not the only one. Dr. Amir Khan is also uploading short videos and expert guidelines on planting vegetables across his Twitter timeline.

Indian High Commissioner discusses economic impact of Covid-19 on Indian businesses in the UK

As part of continuous effort to engage with interlocutors to address the economic impact of Covid-19 on Indian businesses in the UK, Mrs Ruchi Ghanashyam, High Commissioner of India to UK had a video call with the Rt Hon Lord Mayor Mr William Russell (Alderman), City of London.

City of London has partnered with the High Commission in a number of events on green financing, sustainability and investment.

The Guild Hall and other venues of the City of London are utilised by the High Commission to hosts its prestigious events. While the High Commission has reached out to Indian businesses in the UK to understand their challenges, City of London continues to take a number of steps to support FinTech and banking sector affected by the Covid-19. It was decided that a webinar will be organised jointly

by HCI and City of London to engage with Indian companies in the FinTech sector, in furtherance of the existing cooperation and future cooperation.

India’s potential in innovation and startups is well recognised by the City of London and everywhere in the UK. Accordingly, a strong collaboration has emerged between with Indian companies and City of London in FinTech sector, among others. In that direction, the City of London mounts a delegation to India every year which is facilitated by the High Commission. However, due to the cur-

Pursuant to the lockdown directed by the UK Government due to Covid-19, High Commission officials continue to work tirelessly, using technology.

High Commissioner herself has addressed Indian businesses through a number of webinars; reviewed the issues faced by stranded Indians in the UK and Rt Hon Lord Mayor William Russell Lord Karan Bilimoria HE Ruchi Ghanashyam directed HCI officers (Alderman), City of London to reach out to those speaker at a webinar organised by the High rent situation Lord Mayor has to postpone his in need of support. Concerned officers have Commission to discuss financial package visit to India. He has given a video message engaged with Indian students, professionals, announced by the UK Government. conveying a desire to take up the visit at the businesses and community members through In this unprecedented situation, India has earliest opportunity, which will surely materiwebinars and video conferences. In order to stood by the world to provide all possible alise as he has got an extension for one year as respond to queries of stranded Indians in the humanitarian assistance, including medicines the Lord Mayor. It is important to note that UK, two emergency emails and mobile numand surgical equipment. A large quantity of City of London is one of the Associate Partners bers are operated by senior officers of the HCI. Paracetamol supplied to the UK has been well in the flagship Access India Program of the A large number of calls and emails are appreciated. Similarly, Ayurveda, Yoga & High Commission. answered daily.

Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy Earlier, High Commissioner had a detailed On the bilateral front, the High (AYUSH) has become much more essential in telephone call with Lord Karan Bilimoria, Commission has been in touch with Foreign the current situation to develop immunity and President designate of CBI to discuss possible and Commonwealth Office (FCO), Home resistance against contagious diseases. This cooperation between the industries of both the Office, Department of International Trade message has been well received across the countries, including in the field of research on (DIT) and other organisations regularly on globe.

Covid-19. Lord Bilimoria was also a keynote issues of mutual interest.

16 UK

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2 May - 8 May 2020

BAPIO Wales members elected to advice Welsh government regarding BAME high mortality rates BAPIO (British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin) has recently written to NHS England & Wales about the Covid-19 related high mortality rates amongst the Black and Minority Ethnic (BAME) population.

BMA, BBC, ITV, Sky and various other organisations including Asian Voice have also highlighted the issue and in response the NHS England has instituted an inquiry.

Prof Keshav Singhal MBE A letter was sent to the Chief Dr Hasmukh Shah BEM Executives of all Local Health Boards (LHBs are responsible in 70% of all Covid19 deaths.

Wales for Health & Social Care of each “An analysis by Sky News found that area), First Minister of Wales, Health of the 54 front line health and social care Minister & Chief Medical Officer because workers in England and Wales that have of the concerns of Disproportionate high died because of COVID-19, 70% were mortality rates in BAME health profesblack or from an ethnic minority. Our sionals. own updated figures as of 17thApril show As a result BAPIO Wales Secretary, that 51 out of 71 NHS staff deaths from Dr Hasmukh Shah BEM and Chair, Prof Covid19 were BAME equating to71%. 15 Keshav Singhal MBE were elected along out of the 15 doctors who have died have other colleagues to advice Welsh been BAME. Government for urgent planning to deal “The available figures suggest that with above issues. Since last week, they being male, BAME and older adult along have had weekly Skype meetings with the with at least one co morbid condition Welsh Government. puts them at greater risk of mortality,” The letter sent to the health board in the letter highlighted.

Wales said, that given that the high It is a fact that BAME populations BAME mortality rate continues unabated have a higher incidence of known risk (3 senior Indian origin clinicians died on factors including visceral obesity, dia16 April 2020) BAPIO wishes to betes and metabolic syndrome. raisetheirconcerns with the employing According to CDC, these patients probahealth boards about this disproportionbly have 10 times risk of mortality. ate mortality amongst BAME frontline South Asian population has diabetic staff with suggestions to mitigate the rates around 3-5 times that of white popsame. ulation, hypertension and Ischaemic “The latest data from ICNARC Heart Disease, chronic lung disease reveals that 34% of the critically ill ITU including Asthma, COPD or chronic admissions are those of BAME which URTI and Vitamin D deficiency. above the national demographic of 14% It added, “While research is going on BAME population. and will take time to complete, it is vital “According to the Office for National that all of us take cognisance of these disStatistics, the age-specific mortality rate turbing trends and take urgent steps to (March 2020) due to the coronavirus mitigate against any further and unnec(COVID-19) increased significantly in essary tragedies.” each age group, starting from ages 55 to 59 years in males and ages 65 to 69 years Urgent Action Needed in females. Of the deaths involving COVID-19 that occurred in March 2020, The letter further spoke about how there was at least one pre-existing condithe Management of Health and Safety at tion in 91% of cases.

Work Regulations (1999 as amended) “Data from US shows mortality rates requires employers to ensure that work in black population approaching 50 to

environment is, as far as reasonably practicable, safe and without risks to health.

“Alongside that there should also have been an Equality Impact Assessment to determine whether particular groups of staff might be especially at risk and whether particular groups or communities might be at risk such as the poor (greater likelihood of chronic health conditions) or those from particular communities “The employers therefore have a legal, moral and ethical duty to provide a safe working environment for their employees and to perform a comprehensive risk assessment, given the health risks of COVID-19 pandemic.

Unless corroborated evidence is provided to suggest otherwise, existing data suggests that certain demographic characteristics, such as age, sex and race are major determinants of mortality from COVID19 infection. We can find no evidence of any such assessments being carried out.

“Hence, we expect employers to urgently carry out a stratified risk assessment so that those on the frontline of tackling the pandemic are not unnecessarily put in harm’s way. Likewise, the NHS has the legal and ethical obligation to ensure that retired and returning senior doctors and nurses are not given jobs that are front line facing.

“We hope you will take note of our concerns and take immediate action to address the safety of the NHS staff.

BAPIO will extend every support and assistance to you while we all deal with this national crisis.

“We will immediately advise our members of the following: They should not feel pressurised into putting themselves at unwarranted risk particularly with inadequate PPE, in view of the enhanced risk of mortality as noted above. They should notify their Line Manager and Occupational Health of their health problems and ask for an urgent risk assessment which needs to be fully documented and must receive appropriate training if redeployed to unfamiliar area.”

Every Mind Matters

Dr Sohom Das

Nadiya Hussain

Public Health England’s ‘Every Mind Matters’ platform has launched new advice, focussed on looking after people’s mental wellbeing during the coronavirus pandemic. It has been updated after new data shows over 4 in 5 (85.2%) people are worried about the effect that coronavirus is having on their life, with over half (53.1%) saying it was affecting their wellbeing and nearly half (46.9%) reporting high levels of anxiety.

Forensic Psychiatrist Dr Sohom Das told Asian Voice, “It is a natural kind of an anxiety to feel now. Spending time with the family, focussing and home-schooling your children, being in touch with your friends and family and finding hobbies, tasks and activities to engage yourself in will help. For a minority, it would be beyond normal levels of anxiety, who may have never experienced such high levels of stress and therefore they need to seek professional help.”

A range of new resources from ‘Every Mind Matters’, designed specifically to help manage our mental wellbeing during coronavirus, includes a tailored Covid-19 Mind Plan, Covid19 specific content for individuals and their loved ones, and support for specific mental wellbeing issues such as anxiety, stress, low mood and trouble sleeping. The website signposts people to activities such as mindful breathing exercises, help managing unhelpful thoughts, and muscle relaxation.

To help get this vital message out there, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are supporting ‘Every Mind Matters’ and have narrated a new short film which is being broadcast across national TV channels. The film portrays a range of people whose lives have been affected by Covid-19 and aims to reassure people that support is available and encourages everyone to take care of their mental wellbeing at this difficult time.

Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said, “We have asked people to make unprecedented changes to their dayto-day lives as part of our national effort to respond to this global pandemic. Staying at home and not seeing friends and loved ones can take its toll and it is completely understandable to feel overwhelmed or anxious.

“It’s vital that we all look after our mental health in these challenging times, so today we are launching new guidance on the NHS Every Mind Matters website which is tailored to help people deal with this outbreak through practical tips and advice...”

Nadiya Hussain, Great British Bake off star and chef said, “Anxiety can be completely deafening, and right now those suffering with anxiety might be feeling it worse than ever. For me, reaching out to people, talking to my loved ones, helps manage it. You are not alone, a lot of people will also be feeling anxious and scared, and speaking about it with someone you trust will help challenge that anxiety and calm your fears. It's so important to recognise if you're struggling with your mental health, and seek out the support you need - and know that it's OK.”

Coeliac UK offers discount on its online catering course Coeliac UK will be celebrating all things gluten free with a week of online activities and, in support of the catering industry, is offering a special discount on its online catering course throughout the week 11-17 May. The online catering course was re-launched at the start of March, enabling both private and public sector caterers to meet the needs of the growing gluten free market. The charity is offering a 20% discount to any caterers who take the online course during its Gluten Free Community Week.

MasterChef Champion and Coeliac UK Ambassador Jane Devonshire said: “The online catering course is a great way to get staff to understand the needs of those requiring a gluten free diet when coming to your restaurant, cafe or bar. It is easy to do and underlines principals that everyone should have in place legally when offering a gluten free option on the menu.”

“Research shows that people with coeliac disease - and the family and friends they eat out with - are currently worth a potential £100 million a year to venues that can cater for them. So what a great time to do it now, so when everything opens you can hit the ground running offering great food to all your customers.”

17

Vijay (right) with wife Rupal

The course, which takes approximately one and half hours to complete, is suitable for all food industry professionals in both the private and public sectors.

Possible symptoms in Coeliac disease may include severe diarrhoea, excessive wind and/or constipation, persistent or unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, recurrent stomach pain, cramping or bloating, iron, vitamin B12 or folic acid deficien-

cy, anaemia, tiredness, sudden or unexpected weight loss (but not in all cases), mouth ulcers, skin rash, repeated miscarriages, neurological (nerve) problems such as ataxia (loss of coordination, poor balance) and peripheral neuropathy (numbness and tingling in the hands and feet).

Coeliac disease is a serious autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system reacts to gluten found in food, making the body attack itself. 1 in 100 people in the UK has coeliac disease but half a million people in the UK are undiagnosed and average time to diagnosis it is 13 years. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye and barley. Some people are also sensitive to oats.

Last year in an interview with Asian Voice, Vijay Patel, in his mid 30s, described his experience of suffering from Coeliac disease.

Vijay, a complaint handler at AA, who suffered on and off for 18 months with ongoing symptoms of bloating, tiredness, feeling breathless, nausea and acid reflux told Asian Voice, “I was diagnosed with Coeliac disease in March 2017. It took me several months of visits to GP before finally being referred to a specialist- a gastrologist. After much of fact finding, family history, I was referred for endoscopy and a scan

of stomach. A small sample of the intestine was taken, and it was confirmed that I was intolerant to gluten.”

Vijay's wife Rupal, who is a pharmacist, had already started looking up, trying to find out what he should ideally be cautious of, while eating. “I could not eat anything that I have grown up eating- like samosas, rotis and I had withdrawal symptoms. Once we came to know about my gluten intolerance, it was hard to explain to parents. No one in the family had it before me.”

The diagnosis turned his life upside down and was very difficult to deal with and Vijay said without the support of his wife and family and friends, the emotional challenge of dealing with the condition would have been much harder.

Vijay, who is open about his condition to his office manager, gets much support from his work. He is active in raising awareness about the disease and tries to encourage people in different platforms. “Whether going out to a restaurant or meal at home with family, I always try to tell people that there is nothing to be threatened by the Coeliac disease. The more we raise awareness regarding Coeliac disease the more we can help each other, don’t be afraid to talk about it.”

MoneyGram launches 20% off all send fees for our NHS heroes

MoneyGram, a global leader in International Money Transfer, announces 20% off all send fees for NHS staff.

The offer is available either online or at Post Office and Tesco locations across the UK. NHS staff just need to bring their NHS ID and quote ‘NHSHERO’ when sending money at a location.

Tesco is also offering early opening hours on Tuesday’s, Thursday’s (8am – 9am) and Sunday’s (9am – 10am) so NHS staff can combine their grocery shopping and money transfer in one visit, making things a little easier.

Richard Meredith, Head of UK Key Partnerships at MoneyGram, said “We are proud to be supporting our NHS staff in these difficult times and are working closely with our long-term partners to make money transfer a little easier.”

The NHS offer is live on the MoneyGram app, online and in store from 20thApril 2020 and is valid until 30thJune 2020.

Labour leader appoints new race relations adviser, launches review

Sir Keir Starmer has appointed campaigner and Labour peer Doreen Lawrence to the post of race relations adviser and tasked her with leading a review into the impact of coronavirus on black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) communities.

One of the country's foremost campaigners for equality and justice, Lawrence has been asked by Labour’s new leader to investigate why the Covid-19 pandemic is disproportionately impacting people from BAME backgrounds.

Official figures show more than a third of people in intensive care from Covid-19 are from BAME backgrounds - almost triple the proportion of BAME people in the wider population.

All 14 doctors known to have died from the virus were from BAME backgrounds.

Lawrence and Starmer kicked off the review with a digital roundtable on Friday morning alongside Marsha de Cordova, Labour's Shadow Secretary of State for Women and Equalities.

Other experts at the meeting include Harun Khan (Muslim Council of Britain), Lord Simon Woolley (Operation Black Vote), Yvonne Coghill (Deputy President, RCN), Jas Khatkar (Sikh Network), Prof. David Katz (Jewish Medical Association) and Dr Chaand Nagpaul (Chair of the Council of the British Medical Association).

However, British Hindus are upset and demanding an explanation after the digital roundtable did not include a Hindu representative, despite the UK presence of organisations like Hindu Forum of Britain and Hindu Council of UK.

Potting it right: British Asians go green with their grandparents Coronavirus lockdown has driven many British Asians to turn into hobbyist gardeners as they look towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. Amid anxiety caused by collapsing businesses and with restrictions on social mobility, many have embraced nature in their backyards and front porches as they calm their nerves with natural compost. Jaspreet Kaur, a spoken word artist, and her husband are among the few British Asians getting earth under their nails.

Inspired by her husband’s grandmother, Jaspreet explains how the lockdown has provided the couple with the perfect opportunity of bonding with their family members while engaging in cultivating activities. Speaking to Asian Voice, she said, “We like to believe that our naniji (grandmother) has “green fingers” because everything that she plants, grows beautifully. Whilst we are still amateurs, our grandmother has taught us how to plant bitter gourd, something that is very famous in the Punjabi cuisines. If you have bought bitter gourd from your local cash and carry or supermarket shops, then you just need to scoop out the seeds and plant them in any pot with natural compost.”

Ever since the UK government announced the lockdown due to coronavirus pandemic, prices of exotic Indian vegetables have soared. This can in part be attributed to the massive increase in importing and procuring these raw vegetables from countries such as India and Kenya in Africa. Another strand to this justification remains around the temporary closure of cash and carry shops such as the Kingsbury Fruit & Veg where the owners and staff were concerned about the risks of contracting the infection and therefore decided to shut shop for a few days. But even as the UK looks at easing lockdown restrictions, British Asians are wary about the possibility of a second coronavirus pandemic wave.

Not knowing where to begin from,

Jaspreet and her husband, therefore, ordered a box of vegetable seeds from Amazon. Jaspreet said, “We did not know what we wanted to grow so, we ordered a variety of vegetables online. We began planting them in small pots as we had a greenhouse in our garden.

Eventually, we started planting other root vegetables such as potatoes, onions, and carrots in vegetable beds and monitoring their cycles.

“But even if you don’t have huge gardens, you can still grow leafy vegetables in pots that can be placed on your kitchen window sills provided there is plenty of sunlight coming through. From spinach, lettuce, rocket leaves to herbs such as coriander, parsley, and mint which are traditionally used in Indian cooking, these can be easily planted in small pots as they don’t require lots of space to spread out.”

The primary sources of gardening literature for the couple are YouTube tutorials, vlogs, and social media blogs with YouTube channel GrowVeg being their favourite. The couple are even picking up expert gardening advice from books such as ‘How to grow in your garden’, ‘How to grow in small vegetable beds’ besides other channels of information. However, she is quick to recognise that most of this content online and offline is predominantly generated by white British authors and influencers who may not have the insight and expe-

Jaspreet Kaur

rience into growing Asian fruits and vegetables. Commenting about the lack of diversity in this area, she said, “There is not an Asian Voice that we have come across providing tips on how to grow exotic Asian vegetables such as Okra in the British climate. My husband and I are in the initial stages of gardening but going forward we may think of providing some reference material for our British Asian community.”

Jaspreet is not the only one. Dr. Amir Khan is also uploading short videos and expert guidelines on planting vegetables across his Twitter timeline.

Indian High Commissioner discusses economic impact of Covid-19 on Indian businesses in the UK

As part of continuous effort to engage with interlocutors to address the economic impact of Covid-19 on Indian businesses in the UK, Mrs Ruchi Ghanashyam, High Commissioner of India to UK had a video call with the Rt Hon Lord Mayor Mr William Russell (Alderman), City of London.

City of London has partnered with the High Commission in a number of events on green financing, sustainability and investment.

The Guild Hall and other venues of the City of London are utilised by the High Commission to hosts its prestigious events. While the High Commission has reached out to Indian businesses in the UK to understand their challenges, City of London continues to take a number of steps to support FinTech and banking sector affected by the Covid-19. It was decided that a webinar will be organised jointly

by HCI and City of London to engage with Indian companies in the FinTech sector, in furtherance of the existing cooperation and future cooperation.

India’s potential in innovation and startups is well recognised by the City of London and everywhere in the UK. Accordingly, a strong collaboration has emerged between with Indian companies and City of London in FinTech sector, among others. In that direction, the City of London mounts a delegation to India every year which is facilitated by the High Commission. However, due to the cur-

Pursuant to the lockdown directed by the UK Government due to Covid-19, High Commission officials continue to work tirelessly, using technology.

High Commissioner herself has addressed Indian businesses through a number of webinars; reviewed the issues faced by stranded Indians in the UK and Rt Hon Lord Mayor William Russell Lord Karan Bilimoria HE Ruchi Ghanashyam directed HCI officers (Alderman), City of London to reach out to those speaker at a webinar organised by the High rent situation Lord Mayor has to postpone his in need of support. Concerned officers have Commission to discuss financial package visit to India. He has given a video message engaged with Indian students, professionals, announced by the UK Government. conveying a desire to take up the visit at the businesses and community members through In this unprecedented situation, India has earliest opportunity, which will surely materiwebinars and video conferences. In order to stood by the world to provide all possible alise as he has got an extension for one year as respond to queries of stranded Indians in the humanitarian assistance, including medicines the Lord Mayor. It is important to note that UK, two emergency emails and mobile numand surgical equipment. A large quantity of City of London is one of the Associate Partners bers are operated by senior officers of the HCI. Paracetamol supplied to the UK has been well in the flagship Access India Program of the A large number of calls and emails are appreciated. Similarly, Ayurveda, Yoga & High Commission. answered daily.

Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy Earlier, High Commissioner had a detailed On the bilateral front, the High (AYUSH) has become much more essential in telephone call with Lord Karan Bilimoria, Commission has been in touch with Foreign the current situation to develop immunity and President designate of CBI to discuss possible and Commonwealth Office (FCO), Home resistance against contagious diseases. This cooperation between the industries of both the Office, Department of International Trade message has been well received across the countries, including in the field of research on (DIT) and other organisations regularly on globe.

Covid-19. Lord Bilimoria was also a keynote issues of mutual interest.

18 FINANCE - UK

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2 May- 8 May 2020

Dear Financial Voice Reader, Alpesh Patel I have never been more busy than I am during lockdown. I am getting about 4 hours sleep. Not because of health issues or family – thank god – but because of the number of people wanting to learn to invest. I’ve never seen such an interest. Not even when I was writing my weekly column in the Financial Times during the online trading boom.

The most common questions? Which shares should I buy? Which broker should I use? How do I know when to sell? How do I judge if a stock is good?

What do you think about Lloyds Bank shares? How do I buy oil? Should I buy Shell? How do I buy Amazon shares? Are Apple going to spike up? Are Amazon to overvalued? What about buying US stocks from UK? OMG. I have no issues answering questions. To keep things simple and free and be as helpful as possible I used technology to answer. I created a free broadcast channel (like WhatsApp Group) – but on Telegram – so feel free to get my views on all of the above there: https://t.me/pipspredator I always try to tell people if something will be low, medium or high risk. I show them where to get data free – what’s important and what is not. And most importantly how to have a strategy and process so you are quick and not sporadic.

You see too many people come up with names first.

Instead they should have a strategy first. I show them my 6 strategies for different risk levels and then how to find stocks to put into each.

So I explain that in my strategy based on quality companies with market share, cash flow, lots of working capital, that I would hold forever, I buy their leveraged 2x shares. For instance, I love Microsoft, Amazon and Apple. I buy the shares which give me 2x the return on their moves. Not, spreadbets. No these are exchange traded products. Of course 2x leverage means 2 x risk too. But that’s why I like quality stocks for that strategy.

At the other extreme is my higher return strategy.

Companies which last year went up in value, generate good cash flow still, have lots of profits in their bank account already received and if they return to their January levels will give me a 100-500% return as long as their other financials are solid.

Sadly what I have seen is too many people plucking stock names out of the air, not knowing when to get out, and following wild strategies on oil including spreadbets. That’s insane.

UK govt borrowing highest since World War II The UK administration is feeling the pressure for setting out an exit strategy as the economy is reeling under the stress of the coronavirus lockdown.

The government borrowing is highest since World War II. The political opponents and some epidemiologists have trained the guns against Prime Minister Boris Johnson government for its alleged delayed response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Johnson has been recuperating at his county residence after being seriously ill with Covid-19.

With the number of deaths in hospitals hitting 20,732 on Monday, ministers are working to roll out a mass testing and tracking programme to try to reduce the rate of transmission and possibly ease stringent measures that have all but shut the economy. We are experiencing an economic contraction that is faster and deeper than anything we have seen in the past century, or

possibly several centuries," Bank of England interestrate setter Jan Vlieghe said.

The recovery, he said, was unlikely to be swift.

The official figures are thought to be undercounting the true death toll by several thousand, as they do not account for nonhospital deaths, or those who have died in the community without being tested for coronavirus. The IHS Markit/CIPS Flash UK Composite Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) fell to a new record low of 12.9 from 36.0 in March - not even close to the weakest forecast in a Reuters poll of economists that had pointed to a reading of 31.4.

The UK will issue 180 billion pounds ($222bn) of government debt between May and July, more than it had previously planned for the entire financial year.

The country's debt mountain exceeds $2.5 trillion and its public sector net borrowing could reach 14 per cent of gross domestic product this year, the biggest single-year deficit since World War II.

UK mulling 100% guarantees on smallest business loans British finance minister Rishi Sunak is preparing to offer 100% guarantees on loans to Britain’s smallest businesses after sustained pressure from Conservative lawmakers and the Bank of England, reports said. Sunak was "weighing up" whether to offer full state backing to loans of up to 25,000 pounds for as many as 1 million small firms, typically with a handful of staff, to help them survive the coronavirus crisis, the report said.

A finance ministry spokesman declined to com-

Rishi Sunak

ment. Sunak said that he was still "not persuaded" that the government should offer a 100% guarantee to banks which lend to small businesses hit by the coron-

avirus. The reports said a new loans programme could be launched alongside Britain's emergency 330 billion-pound scheme offering loans of up to 5 million pounds, with state guarantees of 80%, to small and medium-sized companies.

That programme got off to a slow start with many companies saying they were struggling to get banks to approve their loans. Data published showed banks had provided 2.8 billion pounds in loans, almost doubling from a week earlier.

Last week, Bank of

England Governor Andrew Bailey urged banks to speed up their handling of applications and suggested 100% state guarantees for the smallest loans might break a backlog in applications. The Confederation of British Industry urged the government to relax lending terms for government-backed loans to smaller businesses to stop them going bust. The CBI also said loans should be repayable over 10 years, rather than a maximum six, for businesses that face high fixed costs and low profit margins.

Retail sales hit hard by lockdown, liquor immune With the stay at home advisory in place, the UK retail market recorded historic fall in sales in March. The liquor is the only exception. As the deepest economic depression knocking the door, the fall in retail sales of 5.1%, compared with the previous month exceeded the already downbeat expectations of City analysts, who forecast a 4% slide for March.

A deeper slump was prevented due to the panic-buying of food and freezers before the lockdown. The majority of these orders were placed through e-commerce. Leaders predict a fall of up to 30% in April when the full impact of the government’s restriction will be felt.

According to a report, the Office for National Statistics said store closures had hit sales of furniture and home furnishings and especially clothing, which dived by 35% month on month.

Petrol sales declined by 19% month on month. The latest blow to high street sales came after a torrid 12 months in which many chains have gone to the wall and others shut stores in towns across the country.

The picture was not quite rosy even before for retailers. The industry was bleeding under competition, rising business rates and escalating rents. Even the luxury and big-ticket items such as cars were no exception with consumers' confidence in the economy hit hard in Brexit uncertainty.

Rishi Sunak, the chancellor, last months

announced a slew of measures to protect businesses from the worst of the Covid-19 fallout, including a business rates holiday.

Now, the government banned commercial landlords from “aggressive rent collection”. This should help many retailers that have fallen behind with payments over recent months.

But the profit decline for the high street cannot be contained by the declared measures., even after the lockdown is ended. Buyers, for safety measures, might continue to prefer online shopping rather than walking into a shop. Revealing a strong divergence in sales, food, household goods and other non-food items all increased sales by value on the month by 15.3%, 18% and 16.4%, respectively, the ONS said.

Supermarkets reported a sharp increase in volume

Trump Organisation seeks bailout from UK govt Bartenders, bagpipers, and other workers at The Trump Organisation are likely to be furloughed as US President Donald Trump’s family business is seeking coronavirus relief package from the UK government to save lossmaking golf-courses.

His two eldest sons, Eric and Donald Trump Jr, run two luxury resorts in Scotland. Since the lockdown began last month, both the properties - International Golf Links in Aberdeenshire and Trump Turnberry in Ayrshire - are shut. Under the job retention scheme, the UK government pays 80 per cent of staff wages up to £2,500 a month, if they are unable to work because of a pandemic.

According to a report, Eric said that any application for government cash was “solely about protecting people and their families who would otherwise be out of work”.

“Like millions of busi-

nesses around the globe, we have been forced by a government mandate to close our hospitality and leisure facilities temporarily, and are doing all that we can to retain and support our highly valued staff,” Eric said in a statement. A similar statement was issued by Sarah Malone, executive vice president of the Aberdeenshire resort.

“We are no different from any other business, including many media companies. This has nothing to do with Trump and does not benefit the business," she said.

According to a report, Trump’s Doonbeg resort in Ireland has confirmed it is accessing the government

scheme in that country. “We’ve laid off a majority of our staff,” managing director Joe Russell was quoted as saying. “We are ensuring they’re looked after in terms of the government schemes that are available.”

In the US, media reports suggest that Trump’s family business has been barred from claiming federal aid under the coronavirus stimulus approved by Congress last month and is believed to be losing more than $1m (£8m) in revenue every day. More than 2,000 workers at Trump properties across the US have been laid off or furloughed without pay.

According to a report, Trump Hotel in Washington DC was seeking $3m relief on the annual rent that it pays to the US General Services Administration for the use of a government-owned former post office.

sales, at 10.3%, while offlicense sales of alcohol soared 31.4% in volume terms. Online sales jumped to more than 22% of all sales, compared with an average of 18% over the last year.

Department store sales rose by 2.8% month on month, though the increase appeared to be due to purchases of food and other items online.

The ONS said: “Comments from food store retailers suggested that panic-buying, or stockpiling during the coronavirus pandemic, was a big factor in the increased sales, particularly for supermarkets.”The ONS also confirmed that April was likely to bring even more significant falls. It said retailers responded to its survey between 1 March and 4 April 2020, meaning that two weeks of the five-week trading period were under physical distancing measures introduced before the lockdown.

Tata Steel needs about £500m in govt support Tata Steel has approached the UK and Welsh governments for a bailout after its big European customers halted production.

According to reports, discussions are said to be underway with the Treasury and the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy. The company employs 8,385 people across the UK, including more than 4,000 workers at the Port Talbot steelworks in south Wales.

Aberavon MP Stephen Kinnock raised the issue, urging the government to raise the limit on its Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme.

“The government has capped at £50m, which is only one 10th of what Tata Steel believes will be the cashflow impact on the company over a six-month period,” he said.

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REAL ESTATE VOICE & UK FINANCE

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2 May - 8 May 2020

PICKING THE CHERRY A recent Hometrack survey shows that 373,000 property transactions have been stalled as a consequence of the current lockdown, worth about £82bn. Demand fell by 70% in March, followed by a recent increase over the last three weeks. According to these statistics the number of homes for sale has dropped only 4%.

Suresh Vagjiani

Sow & Reap London Property Investment

In contrast, the scene in the auction room has been very different. For example, one auctioneer had 131 lots for sale; only 65 made it to the room. From this there was a sale of 52 lots; made up from a combination of preauction, in the room and post- auction. This means only 40% of the overall lots offered had been sold.

Auctioneers are always trying to ensure the number of lots they sell is high in preparation for the next auction. In order to do this, they would have asked the vendors to reduce their reserve. Presumably, the ones who would not would have been asked to withdraw.

It was this backdrop we managed to secure a great deal in Harrow for one of our clients. The property is a three bedroom semi, which ordinarily sells for £550 Kish. We managed to pick it up for £442K, so a 20% discount to the market price. This deal was done post auction.

It’s very close to West Harrow tube station which takes one to Baker Street station within 24 mins. The basic and most important mantra in property is Location, Location, Location.

Due to the current lockdown we negotiated a 10 week completion period; just to be sure we can get the rest of the funds from a lender. We have no less than 3 applications going on, just to be on the safe side. I feel it’s probably an overkill, as many lenders are sensitive to the current

situation and have put mechanisms in place to deal with applications, such as desktop valuations.

The intention with this deal is to convert the property into a high quality HMO with all rooms ensuite; and then refinance the deal extracting out a large chunk of the initial capital. And then leaving this as a cash generator to keep long term. The numbers look very good.

Each room is expected to produce £750pm; with 5 rooms this comes to £45K per annum. If we take off 25% for expenses, we are left with

UK consumers choosing big weekly shops during lockdown The big weekly shop has made a comeback with supermarkets reporting record trolley loads as Britons develop new lockdown routines. Latest figures from grocery analysts Kantar show shoppers spent £524m more on groceries so far in April, despite the fact that the number of supermarket visits dropped sharply. There was also a near 40% increase in convenience store sales as people turned to local shops to satisfy their daily needs.

Fraser McKevitt, the head of retail and consumer insight at Kantar, said: “People are spending more time at home and eating fewer meals out of the house, which has led to a strong growth in takehome grocery sales.”

However physical distancing meant spending in other parts of the store, such as on clothing and takeaway fare such as sandwiches, salads and coffee, had collapsed, he said.

Before the coronavirus struck Britons were increasingly doing small top-up shops but the return of the big shop was confirmed by the Tesco chief executive, Dave Lewis, who said the number of transactions in its stores had nearly halved in April but that the amount being bought on

each trip had doubled.

On average, British households went food shopping 14 times in April, which compares with 17 trips in more normal times.

The drop was offset by a surge in the amount spent per trip, which reached £26.

This is the highest figure ever recorded by Kantar and £7 greater than in 2019.

The lockdown had also changed what people

bought, with shoppers finding new ways to enjoy themselves while staying home. There had been a surge in demand for baking ingredients, with sales of suet up by 115% and sugar by 46%, according to Kantar. Over 40% of consumers it polled said they are doing more home baking now. The data showed grocery sales were 9.1% higher in the 12 weeks

to 19 April than in 2019. It also showed this month the proportion of groceries bought online had exceeded 10% for the first time, as the major supermarkets added delivery slots to support self-isolating households.

The over-65s in particular flocked online, almost doubling the amount they spent on food deliveries as the coronavirus forced them to stay at home.

McKevitt said: “Retailers’ efforts to increase their online capacity are clearly working, with shopper numbers up by a quarter.

Online sales now account for 10.2% of overall grocery, versus 7.4% last month, with the greatest increase among older shoppers.”

Lewis told the BBC Tesco had doubled its online capacity since the outbreak began to one million orders a week. The supermarket would add a further 200,000 slots over the next 10 days, Lewis said, adding: “We’re trying to help as many people as we can. And the single biggest thing has been the change in online shopping.”

£33,750 per annum. If the quality is good, the tenants will come.

The rates are still cheap. We will be applying for a 3.36% fixed for 5 years for our client on the refinance. As our client is a limited company, the rates are higher.

On the basis of a valuation of £650K,we expect to release £487,500, and give a net income of £17K per annum. This will be a 5 year fixed product, therefore this level of income is pretty stable. If anything, it should rise with time with the rents.

European airlines to lose £72bn in revenue

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) predicts that European airlines will collectively lose $89bn (£72bn) in revenue. Since the last forecast a month ago, the anticipated revenue loss has increased by one-sixth. IATA says that the overall negative GDP impact in Europe is $452bn (£366bn) across Europe.

The association estimates that 6.7 million jobs are at risk.

Its new analysis is based on a scenario of severe travel restrictions lasting for three months, with a gradual lifting of restrictions in domestic markets, followed by regional and intercontinental travel. The near-total shutdown of European aviation and cruising because of the coronavirus pandemic will cost the continent’s economies hundreds of billions of pounds, according to industry forecasts.

The worst-hit country is the UK, with 140 million fewer journeys and an estimated £21.1bn revenue loss – “risking almost 661,200 jobs and around $50.3bn (£40.8bn) in contribution to the UK economy”. That represents over £600 per person in damage to the British economy.

Heathrow, previously Europe’s busiest airport, is now operating with only one runway and two of its four terminals closed. Germany is on course for the next-worst revenue loss, but this is only two-thirds of the UK figure. Spain, Italy and France are also set to lose heavily, with $115bn (£93bn) in economic damage between them.

20 FINANCE

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Facebook, RIL ink mega-deal to bring market to your doorstep The Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) and the Facebook joined hands as social media giant pumped in $5.7 billion investment in Jio Platforms Limited, part of the RIL. The deal made Facebook its largest minority shareholder. Facebook said the investment underscores its commitment to India, and its excitement for the dramatic digital transformation that Jio has spurred in the country.

In less than four years, Jio has brought more than 388 million people online, fueling the creation of innovative new enterprises and connecting people in new ways. We are committed to connecting more people in India together with Jio. India is in the midst of one of the most dynamic social and economic transformations the world has ever seen, driven by the rapid adoption of digital technologies.

In just five years, more than 560 million people in India have gained access to the internet.

It is expected that coming together of two giants from very different segments will enable new opportunities for businesses of all sizes, but especially for the more than 60 million small busi-

Mukesh Ambani and Mark Zuckerberg

nesses across India. They account for the majority of jobs in the country, and form the heart and soul of rural and urban communities alike.

By bringing together JioMart, Jio’s small business initiative, with the power of WhatsApp, the deal aims to connect people with businesses, shop, and ultimately purchase products in a seamless mobile experience. This investment by Facebook values Jio Platforms at £46.2 billion pre-money enterprise value ($65.95 billion).

Facebook’s investment will translate into a 9.99% equity stake in Jio Platforms on a fully diluted basis.

As one of the largest countries in the world, India is home to some of Facebook’s most

DA hike of govt employees, pensioners put on hold

As the Indian economy is reeling under the crisis out of lockdown from Covid-19 spread, the Central government has put on hold dearness allowance (DA) hike for 50,00,000 central government employees and 61,00,000 pensioners till July 2021.

"In view of the crisis arising out of Covid-19, it has been decided that the additional instalment of dearness allowance payable to central government employees and dearness relief (DR) to central government pensioners due from January 1, 2020, shall not be paid. The additional instalment of DA and DR due from July 1, 2020, and January 1, 2021, shall also not be paid," the Department of Expenditure said in an office memorandum. However, DA and DR at current rates will continue to be paid.

Generally, the states follow the Centre order on DA and DR. Estimated savings from suspension DA and DR instalments of state government employees and pensioners will be £8.26 billion. Thus, the combined savings of the Centre and states will be £12 billion, which will help in fighting the battle against Covid-19 and its fallout. Only in the last month, a rise in the DA for central government employees was announced, with effect from January 1, 2020. The Union Cabinet had approved a 4 per cent increase in DA for government employees and pensioners to 21 per cent.

thriving communities on WhatsApp, Facebook and Instagram. The partnership between Facebook and Jio is unprecedented in many ways.

This is the largest investment for a minority stake by a technology company anywhere in the world and the largest FDI in the technology sector in India. The investment values Jio Platforms amongst the top 5 listed companies in India by market capitalization, within just three and a half years of launch of commercial services, validating Reliance Industries’ capability in incubating and building disruptive nextgeneration businesses, while delivering market-defining shareholder value.

Concurrent with the investment, Jio Platforms, Reliance

Retail Limited (Reliance Retail) and WhatsApp have also entered into a commercial partnership agreement to further accelerate Reliance Retail’s New Commerce business on the JioMart platform using WhatsApp and to support small businesses on WhatsApp. The companies said they will work closely to ensure that consumers are able to access the nearest kiranas, who can provide products and services to their homes by transacting seamlessly with JioMart using WhatsApp. Commenting on the partnership with Facebook, Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director, Reliance Industries Ltd, said, “When Reliance launched Jio in 2016, we were driven by the dream of India's digital sarvodaya – India’s Inclusive Digital Rise to improve the quality of life of every single Indian and to propel India as the world’s leading Digital Society.

All of us at Reliance are therefore humbled by the opportunity to welcome Facebook as our longterm partner in continuing to grow and transform the digital ecosystem of India for the benefit of all Indians.

Franklin Templeton closure sends shock waves Ripple effects of Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund's decision to wind up six debt schemes and block redemptions indefinitely due to liquidity issues spread to the asset management industry and the corporate bond market.

Anticipating widespread redemption demand in near future, several mutual funds, in a chest building exercise, sold top-rated debt securities aggressively in the bond market.

Little wonder investors reportedly have begun pulling back money out of other credit-risk schemes or bond funds holding lowerrated papers on worries of losses.

The risk aversion sentiments have led to yields rising even on paper of highly rated entities, including public sector companies and financial institutions.

The differential or spread between yields on bonds of these companies, both governments owned and privately held, and similarmaturity government papers widened by about 20-30 basis points (bps). A basis point is 0.01 percentage point. Dealers said the broadening of spreads to this extent is unusual and is a sign of risk aversion.

During the global financial crisis and after the IL&FS default, the spread had widened by up to 50 bps.

In an unprecedented decision, Franklin Templeton Mutual Fund on April 23 has shut six of its open-ended debt funds, effective April 23. The six schemes include, Franklin India Low Duration Fund (FILDF), Franklin India Dynamic Accrual Fund, Franklin India Credit Risk Fund, Franklin India Short Term Income Plan, Franklin India Ultra Short Bond Fund, and Franklin India Income Opportunities Fund (FIIOF).

All these schemes followed the high-risk, highreturn credit risk strategy.

The fund house will now sell the underlying securities of all these funds over time and pay off their investors in a staggered manner.

Templeton will keep trying to liquidate its portfolios as much as it can. Of the money it receives, Sanjay Sapre, President, Franklin Templeton – India has assured that the fund house will keep paying all investors, big or small, proportionately and in instalments. He added that the fund would not charge the asset management fee with effect from April 24, the winding date, for as long as it takes for them to redeem the funds entirely.

Meanwhile, the segregated portfolios of these schemes will continue independent-

ly.

Indian Railways Finance Corp (IRFC) on Friday sold three-year paper at 6.19%, about 20-25 bps higher than the usual.

Rural Electrification Corp cancelled a primary bond sale as investors demanded 7.40% for three-year paper, deemed steep by the borrower. Both are stateowned companies.

Vedanta's bonds, rated AA with a two-year residual maturity, changed hands at 11%, which, according to market participants, verged on distress levels. A large finance company, which deals in vehicle funding, saw a set of subdebt paper trading at about 15%.

The mutual fund industry swung into firefighting mode with the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI), the main lobby group, saying the issue is limited to six schemes of one fund house. Top industry executives said there was no need for a special liquidity window to be opened by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as it did in 2008 and 2013 because the borrowing limits of most fund. houses are yet to be exhausted. The speculation in the industry is that Franklin has exhausted its borrowing limit, which is 20% of a fund's net assets for a period of six months.

This could not be independently verified.

in brief

HDFC ACQUIRES 6.43% IN RELIANCE CAPITAL Mortgage lender HDFC said it acquired 6.43 per cent stake in debt-trapped Reliance Capital by invoking pledged shares. These shares were acquired under invocation of a pledge by security trustee on behalf of the corporation, which was pledged against a loan given by the lender in its normal course of business, HDFC Ltd said in a regulatory filing.

Following this, the company acquired 2.527 billion shares of Rs 10 each, it said, adding that the total value of these shares are £ 25.2 million. It further said the requisite disclosure had already been made on March 27. And, since the shares have now been credited to the account of the Corporation, the disclosure was being made once again.

REVOLVING FUND FOR MSME

The Indian government is working on a £10 billion package to ensure timely refunds of dues to small businesses hit by the Vovid-19-led lockdown, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) minister Nitin Gadkari said. The minister also said that the government is likely to change the definition of MSME, a proposal that is awaiting approval from the Prime Minister. "We have decided to set up a (revolving) fund of £10 billion and we will ensure it and the government will pay its insurance. We will fix a formula among (the stakeholders) and provide minimum £10 billion and the interest on the same," Gadkari said in a video conference hosted by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham). "We are in the process of finalizing the scheme and will soon send it to the finance ministry for approval. This will be one of the ways to increase liquidity," the minister said.

Gadkari said he has also requested finance minister Nirmala Sitharamana to fast-track the process of tax refunds and pay them within eight days of filing returns.

ABU DHABI ROYAL INVESTS £760 MN IN RETAILER LULU

An Abu Dhabi investment firm, led by Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the ruling family, invested nearly $1 billion (£760 mn) in LuLu Group International, the holding company of LuLu hypermarkets, according to a source with knowledge of the matter. Sheikh Al Nahyan is the son of the UAE founder Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and currently serves as the country’s national security adviser. “This is the first time somebody is investing in LuLu Group and they are picking roughly 20% shares in the company,” the source said. The group operates 188 hypermarkets and supermarkets across the Middle East, India and Far East. Considered to be the single largest employer of Indians outside India, the retailer has more than 30,000 Indians on its pay rolls.

REMITTANCES TO INDIA PROJECTED TO PLUNGE

Remittances are projected to fall by about 23% in 2020 to $64 billion In India - a striking contrast with growth of 5.5% and receipts of $83 billion seen in 2019, as the impact of the Covid-19 outbreak and travel restrictions make a huge dent on flows, a World Bank report has estimated. The Covid-19-related global slowdown and travel restrictions will also affect migratory movements, and this is likely to keep remittances subdued even in 2021. The projected remittance growth of 5.8% in 2021 will keep total regional flows at about $115 billion, the report said. The crisis has created a chaotic and painful process of mass return for internal migrants in India and many countries in Latin America. As a result, the Covid-19 containment measures might even have contributed to spreading the epidemic. The loss of jobs and livelihood has also ruptured an important lifeline to rural households in many countries, the report said.

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in brief PRESTIGIOUS AWARD FOR INDIAN AMERICAN PROFESSOR

Rashmi Vinayak, an assistant professor in the Carnegie Mellon University Computer Science Department, has won a five-year, $650,000 career development award, the National Science Foundation’s most prestigious award for young faculty members. The award will support Vinayak’s work to improve the resource and energy efficiency of large-scale data centers, which together serve as the backbone for internet-based services, cloud services and data analytics platforms. “Such large-scale systems are prone to failures and unavailability, and therefore have a high degree of redundancy built into them to provide resilience against such events,” the Indian American researcher noted in the release.

“While redundancy provides resilience, it comes with a significant overhead in terms of resource and energy requirements. The overarching goal of this project is to design resource- and energy-efficient redundancy algorithms for data centers using tools based on information theory and coding theory.”

PIO LAWYER TO STEP DOWN FROM TOP POST

Seema Nanda has announced her decision to step down as the CEO of the Democratic National Committee, the top administrative position in the main Opposition party, ahead of the presidential elections in November.

Nanda, 48, became the first Indian-American to be appointed as the CEO of the Democratic National Committee in June, 2018. She did not give reasons for leaving the top position in the party. Reports say Nanda’s sudden exit from the DNC was part of the effort of the former US vice-president Joe Biden who is the presumptive presidential nominee of the Democratic Party.

PAK NAVY TEST-FIRES ANTI-SHIP MISSILES

The Pakistan navy on Saturday successfully test-fired a series of anti-ship missiles in the North Arabian Sea, an official said. The missiles were fired from surface ships, fixed and rotary-wing aircraft, the navy’s spokesman Rear Admiral Arshid Javed said.

“The anti-ship missiles were fired at the sea level by warships and aircraft,” he said. The demonstration is a testament to the Pakistan’s operational capability, the official said.

PAK WOMAN DIES OF STARVATION AMID LOCKDOWN

A pregnant woman has died of starvation in Pakistan's Sindh province amid the coronavirus lockdown imposed in the country, according to media reports. Sughra Bibi, 30, died in Jhudo town of Sindh's Mirpur Khas district last week, reports said.

Bibi's husband Allah Baksh said he is a daily wager and due to the lockdown could not find work and was facing problems in feeding his family, which includes six children. Baksh claimed he did not even have money to bury his wife. Local residents raised money through donations for Bibi's burial, the report said. The Sindh government announced that they were investigation the starvation-related death.

Pakistan is under lockdown for over a month now to check the spread of coronavirus. The government has unveiled a number of schemes for daily wager earners who are the worst hit economically in this curfew period. However, there have been reports of discrimination in the distribution of ration.

Pak army sidelines Imran Khan in fight against Covid-19 Islamabad: Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has been trumped by the country's powerful military yet again, this time over his government's inadequate steps and its poor response in curbing the coronavirus outbreak in the country, even as cases soared over 13,286.

In his address to the nation on March 22, Khan explained the reasons for not imposing a countrywide lockdown, asserting that millions would lose their jobs and affect families, who are below the poverty line, struggling to find enough food to eat. However, less than 24 hours later, Pakistan Army spokesperson Major General Babar Iftikhar announced the implementation of lockdown in the country having a population of over 200 million, con-

tradicting the statements made

by Imran Khan.

As lockdown was imposed, the military has deployed troops across Pakistan and is orchestrating the Covid-19 response through the National Core Committee, a body set up to coordinate policy between the national and provincial governments."The government

left a big gap in its handling of the coronavirus. The army has tried to fill that gap, there was no choice," an unnamed retired general was quoted as saying.

The virus crisis in Pakistan has once again made things crystal clear about who is calling the shots - the military, widely believed to bring Imran Khan to power in 2018. The

armymen have taken over the Covid-19 crisis as an opportunity to prove their competency in contrast to Imran Khan, who was mocked after urging youth to come forward and join Corona Relief Tigers Force, a volunteer body to wage "jihad" against the virus.

According to analysts, the military's seizure of the coronavirus response marks yet another policy failure for Imran Khan in the eyes of the generals. Even after the lockdown was imposed, Imran Khan continued to question the need for its implementation, raising eyebrows over the country's response in tackling the virus, as cases continue to rise. This comes even as such drastic measures are in place in many countries across the world, including neighbouring India.

implement an action plan that has been mutually agreed to with the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF), part of which involves “demonstrating effective implementation of targeted financial sanctions.” It is possible that these removals are part of Pakistan’s action plan to implement the FATF recommendations, it said.

While Pakistan received a rating of “low” effectiveness from the FATF regarding terrorist financing preventive measures and financial sanctions, the FATF did note in February that Pakistan has largely addressed 14 of 27 action items, with varying levels of progress made on the rest of the action, it said. The FATF will again evaluate Pakistan’s progress in June 2020.

Currently placed on the FATF’s ‘grey list’, Pakistan has been scrambling in recent months to avoid being added to a list of countries deemed noncompliant with anti-money laundering and terrorist financing regulations, a measure that officials in Pakistan fear could hurt its economy, which is already under severe strain.

Several of the names removed from Pakistan’s list appear to be aliases for designated terrorists listed on the US or United Nations sanctions lists, according to Castellum.AI. The lack of certain identifiers such as dates of birth or, in some cases, a national ID number - on NACTA's list makes it difficult to know for sure, the Wall Street Journal quoted sanctions experts as saying.

26/11 mastermind, 1,800 others out of Pak terror watch list NEW YORK: Pakistan has quietly removed around 1,800 terrorists from its watch list, including that of the 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind and LeT operations commander Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi, ahead of a new round of assessments by the global antimoney-laundering watchdog FATF, according to a US-based start-up that automates watchlist compliance.

The so-called proscribed persons list, which is maintained by Pakistan’s National Counter Terrorism Authority or Nacta, is intended in part to help financial institutions avoid doing business with or processing transactions of suspected terrorists. The list in 2018 contained about 7,600 names. It

Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi

has been reduced to under 3,800 in the past 18 months, according to Castellum.AI, a New York-based regulatory technology company. About 1,800 of the names have been removed since the beginning of March, according to data collected by Castellum.

Pakistan is working to

Arrest warrant issued against Sharif in another corruption case LAHORE: Pakistan's anti-graft body has issued an arrest warrant against former prime minister Nawaz Sharif in a 34-yearold land related corruption case.

The 70-year-old supremo of the Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz, is currently in London for medical treatment.

According to the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) officials, Sharif illegally leased the land to Jang Group editorin-chief Mir Shakilur Rehman in 1986, when the three-time premier was the chief minister of Punjab province.

The official said the NAB would move the accountability court to declare Sharif a proclaimed offender over noncooperation in the investigation.

On March 27, the NAB sent a questionnaire to Sharif and summoned him to the bureau

Nawaz Sharif

office on March 31 to record his statement. Again on March 15, NAB’s Lahore office summoned Sharif to appear before the bureau on March 20, but no response came from him, Dawn reported.

Jang Group, also known as Geo Group, is a subsidiary of Dubai-based company Independent Media Corporation. Rehman, the editor-in-chief of Jang/Geo media group, was arrested on March 12

under charges that he illegally acquired 6.75 acres land on a prime location in Lahore at a throwaway price in 1986 during the tenure of then-chief minister of Punjab Sharif.

Sharif left for London in November last for treatment after the Lahore High Court allowed him to go abroad on medical grounds for four weeks.

According to Sharif's physician Dr Adnan Khan, the top leader of the Pakistan Muslim LeagueNawaz (PML-N) is suffering from complex multi-vessel coronary artery disease and substantial ischemic and threatened myocardium for which he is due to undergo surgery.

In a latest tweet, Khan said: 'As a high risk patient, former PM #NawazSharif's cardiac catheterisation/coronary intervention was postponed to be rescheduled at a later date

amidst Covid-19 pandemic, as public/private hospitals limited their admissions/procedures.

Presently managed on aggressive medical therapy.' The Lahore High Court had, in October last year, granted bail to Sharif on medical grounds for four weeks, allowing the Punjab government to extend it further in the light of his medical reports.

The Islamabad High Court had also granted bail to Sharif in the Al Azizia Mills corruption case, in which the former prime minister was serving a sevenyear jail term, clearing his way to travel abroad for medical treatment. Sharif has given an undertaking to the Lahore High Court to return to Pakistan citing his record to face the process of law and justice within four weeks or as soon as he is declared fit to travel.

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Sri Lanka to seek $400 mn debt swap facility from India COLOMBO: Sri Lanka is set to enter into an agreement with the Reserve Bank of India for a currency swap worth USD 400 million to boost the foreign reserves and ensure the financial stability of the country which is badly hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, a top minister has said.

The Cabinet has approved a proposal made by Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa as the Finance Minister to enter into an agreement with the RBI for the financing facility to meet short-term international liquidity requirements, CoCabinet spokesman Information and Communication Minister Bandula Gunawardena said.

Sri Lanka will enter into the agreement with the RBI for a Bilateral Currency Swap Arrangement worth USD 400 million, Gunawardena said, adding the facility from the RBI is aimed at boosting the island nation's foreign reserves. The swap arrangement is a decision

two countries reach while doing trade related payment.

Sri Lanka has placed critical economic measures to save the resources hit badly by the Covid-19 pandemic which has infected 373 persons in the country and the death toll reached 7. Addressing the Cabinet media, Gunawardena said the Cabinet meeting chaired by President Gotabaya Rajapaksa paid special attention to the control of the coronavirus pandemic, its success and the distribution of goods and relief to the people.

The minister pointed out

that the whole world is now experiencing the economic collapse since World War II resulted from the pandemic outbreak and a single country alone cannot find a solution to the crisis. So the Cabinet of Ministers has approved this proposal in order to ensure the financial stability of the country, Gunawardena said.

The country has ordered imports restrictions to prevent non-essential imports. This is in view of the local rupee falling to its historical low against the US dollar. The rupee now hovers over 195 to the dollar gaining somewhat from being down to 200 mark. The government has also announced talks with Asian Development Bank and China's Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. A USD 300 million budgetary support is anticipated from the ADB, officials said.

The announcement for getting the USD 400 million financial facility from India came as the rating agency, Fitch

country’s battle against the virus. The recent infections among tri-forces personnel have

underscored the importance of strengthening safety measures to prevent frontline officers, including health care workers, from being affected by the virus.

Sri Lanka has experienced a sudden surge in infections since April 23, as the succeeding four days have seen 258 new cases, among which 63 were reported on Sunday – the second highest single day toll in the country.

Seven people have died due to the virus which started spreading in the country since

Mahinda Rajapaksa

warned Sri Lanka to reform its soft-peg and block the ability of its domestic operations department to inject large volumes of cash below the ceiling policy rate to stop monetary instability. Last month, during a video conference of Prime Minister Narendra Modi along with leaders and representatives from SAARC nations, President Gotabaya said, 'Our economy has taken a severe blow due to the coronavirus, particularly in tourism... Our exports are also adversely affected.' Tourism is the third-largest earner of foreign exchange in Sri Lanka.

The decline in tourist arrivals has hit the island nation's tourism industry in a big way.

Largely owing to the Covid19 pandemic, the World Bank recently forecast Sri Lankan economy to contract by 3 per cent this year as against a 2.4 per cent estimated growth last year, whilst the IMF predicted the global economy to contract by 3 per cent as well.

Sri Lanka’s Covid-19 cases reach 588 COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s Covid19 infections reached 588 on Monday, as the country recorded its highest single day toll of 65 by surpassing the previous highest of 63 during the previous day, health authorities said.

Government figures show that there are 455 active cases including at least 180 navy personnel, one air force officer, and several other army personnel involved in the

Bangladesh to recruit more doctors, nurses to fight Covid-19 DHAKA: Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said her government has already initiated the process of appointing 2,000 more physicians and 6,000 nurses to ensure treatment of the coronavirus infected patients.

“We are going to appoint more 2,000 physicians and 6,000 nurses at the quickest possible time to ensure treatment of the coronavirus patients,” she said while exchanging views with the officials and public representatives of the districts of Rajshahi division over the Covid-19 situation through video conference from her official Ganabhaban residence in Dhaka on Monday morning.

She said the process to this end has already started, adding that, “I myself has already made it (the process of appointing 2,000 doctors and 6,000 nurses) okay”. The premier said doctors will be recruited from those who have passed the BCS examinations (earlier), adding that after recruitment of the physicians and nurses, all of them will be given special training on how to treat Covid-19 patients.

She reiterated that her government has already taken initiatives to install Intensive Care Unit (ICU) in every district in phases.

In this context, she said, “We have already decided to set up ICU in every district in phases as no problem to be surfaced in giving treatment to patients anywhere.”

March 11, while 126 have recovered so far.

According to the health ministry, the country’s capital Colombo accounts for 154 cases, followed by other districts such as Kalutara with 59 cases, and Puttalam with 37 cases. The government has come under heavy fire for relaxing its lockdown style curfews on an intermittent basis, while health experts urge for tighter restrictions to bring the situation under control.

Taliban reject call for Ramadan ceasefire in Afghanistan KABUL: The Taliban have rejected an Afghan government call for a ceasefire for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and to let authorities focus on tackling the coronavirus, raising new concern about prospects for a fragile peace process. Hopes for an end to Afghanistan's decades of war were raised in late February when the Taliban and the United States struck a deal on the withdrawal of US-led foreign forces in exchange for Taliban security guarantees.

But the deal did not include a ceasefire, which has been left to the USbacked government to negotiate with the insurgents. A Taliban spokesman, Suhail Shaheen, said that a ceasefire would be possible if the peace process was being implemented "fully" but "hurdles" meant the Taliban would not yet lay down their arms. "Asking

The Taliban, fighting for years to expel foreign forces, agreed in February to a week-long "reduction in violence" to secure the agreement with the United States, which was signed on Feb. 29.

Taliban spokesman Suhail Shaheen But they resumed for ceasefire is not rational attacking government and convincing," Shaheen forces soon after. This week said in his post. alone, dozens of members President Ashraf Ghani of the Afghan security called for the ceasefire for forces, civilians and Taliban Ramadan, which began in fighters have been killed in Afghanistan on Friday, and clashes. to allow the country to In one of the latest focus on what he said was a incidents, Taliban forces critical novel coronavirus attacked security outbreak spreading all over checkpoints manned by the country. Afghanistan members of a prohas detected more than government militia in the 1,300 cases of the virus but northwestern province of health experts say the Badghis. Thirteen members number could be higher as of the militia were killed testing is limited and and seven captured, said Afghanistan's weak health Najmuddin Burhani, system would struggle with spokesman for the a widespread outbreak. provincial governor.

in brief ANOTHER ASSASSIN OF BANGABANDHU ARRESTED

Risaldar Moslemuddin, convicted of killing Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, has been arrested in West Bengal in India, media reports said. Moslem, who had long been absconding, was arrested from North 24 Parganas in West Bengal, days after Abdul Majed, another killer of Bangabandhu was arrested from Kolkata and hanged in Dhaka, reports said. Moslem, one of the 12 assassins who were awarded death sentence for the 1975 killing, fled the country after Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League came to power in 1996. However, the Bangladesh government said they are not aware of such development, Dhaka Tribune reported. The country's Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan said: "As you are hearing, we are also hearing (the news of the arrest). But there is no confirmation." "Our NSI (National Security Intelligence) does not know anything. Our SB (Special Branch) also does not know anything," he said.

TRUMP SKIPS QUESTIONS AT CORONAVIRUS BRIEFING

A day after he floated the idea of using disinfectants and light to treat Covid-19, President Donald Trump declined to take any questions at his daily coronavirus briefing at the White House. The briefing - which can sometimes last about two hours - was over in just over 20 minutes, following remarks from Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and FDA head Stephen Hahn. The two top government doctors charged with combating the coronavirus crisis, Anthony Fauci and Deborah Birx, were not in attendance. Last week, Trump drew widespread criticism for suggesting light, heat and injecting disinfectants could be used to treat coronavirus patients. Accusing the media of asking hostile questions and claiming he never said the coronavirus was a hoax even though video footage exists of him saying it, Trump canned his daily press briefing saying it is “not worth the time & effort. What is the purpose of having White House News Conferences when the Lamestream Media asks nothing but hostile questions, & then refuses to report the truth,” Trump said.

BEIJING BANS ‘UNCIVILISED’ BEHAVIOUR

Beijing has banned “uncivilised” behaviour such as not covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, the city government said. The laws relate to combating the pandemic. Rule-breakers will be slapped with fines for offences, including not wearing a mask in public when ill, the municipal government said on its website.

The laws also require public places to set up one metre distance markers and to provide communal chopsticks and serving spoons for shared meals. Citizens must also “dress neatly” in public and not go shirtless.

HARVARD DEFIES TRUMP, SAYS IT WILL KEEP $8.6M STIMULUS GRANT

Harvard University said it plans to keep an $8.6 million grant it received as part of a stimulus package to blunt the economic impact of the Covid-19 lockdown, contradicting US President Trump who pledged the university would return it.

Speaking at a briefing, Trump pointed to the institution’s ample endowment - worth nearly $41billion - as the reason why it should hand over the money. “Harvard is going to pay back the money and they shouldn’t be taking it,” Trump said. In a statement issued after the briefing, Harvard said it planned “to direct 100% of the funds to financial assistance to students, and will not be using any of the funds to cover institutional costs.”

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in brief in brief STORMS, TORNADO KILL AT LEAST SIX IN TWO US STATES

Severe storms and a tornado swept through the US states of Oklahoma and Texas, killing at least six people and injuring dozens, officials said. Three people died and at least 20 were injured when a tornado touched down in Onalaska, Texas, emergency officials said. Onalaska is about 90 miles north of Houston. Two people were also killed in southern Oklahoma, while local media reported that a woman died in storm in Louisiana. "On April 22, a tornado struck the city of Onalaska and other portions of Polk and San Jacinto counties, and possibly even far eastern Walker County", Houston's National Weather Service (NWS) said in a statement. The tornado touched down near Oklahoma's border with Texas.

CHINA PLEDGES $30 MN MORE FOR WHO'S CORONAVIRUS FIGHT

China has promised to donate $30 million more to the World Health Organization (WHO), which is seeking more than $1 billion to fund its battle against the coronavirus pandemic. The pledge comes about a week after US President Donald Trump suspended funding to the WHO and accused the Geneva-based organisation of promoting Chinese "disinformation" about the virus, which began in Wuhan last year. "At this crucial moment, supporting WHO is supporting multilateralism and global solidarity," Hua Chunying, a spokeswoman of China's foreign ministry, said.

NO MORE COVID PATIENTS IN WUHAN HOSPITALS

Wuhan, the city at the center of China’s coronavirus outbreak, has no more hospitalized patients after the last 12 were discharged on Sunday, the Hubei province health commission said. Hubei’s remaining patients were all in Wuhan, the provincial capital where the outbreak took the heaviest toll in China. The 3,869 people who died in the city account for more than 80% of the country’s reported deaths. “It is a historic day,” said a report in a newspaper. Hubei has no more suspected cases in its hospitals, though 1,728 people who had close contact with an infected person remain under medical observation, the province's health commission said. Patients remain hospitalized elsewhere in China, including 67 in Shanghai and three in Beijing. Many cities have seen an influx of cases from overseas, prompting the government to curtail international flights and entry sharply.

SAUDI ARABIA ENDS FLOGGING

Saudi Arabia has ended flogging as a form of punishment, according to a document from the kingdom's top court. The decision by the General Commission for the Supreme Court, taken sometime this month, will see the punishment replaced by prison sentences or fines, or a mixture of both. "The decision is an extension of the human rights reforms introduced under the direction of King Salman and the direct supervision of Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman," the document said.

Flogging has been applied to punish a variety of crimes in Saudi Arabia. Without a codified system of law to go with the texts making up sharia, or Islamic law, individual judges have the latitude to interpret religious texts and come up with their own sentences. Rights groups have documented past cases in which Saudi judges have sentenced criminals to flogging for a range of offences, including public intoxication and harassment. In another decision, King Salman also ordered an end to the death penalty for crimes committed by minors. The latest royal decree will spare the death penalty for at least six men from the country’s minority Shia community.

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Subdued celebrations, closed Mecca mark Ramzan in times of Covid RIYADH: The festival has begun, but the festivity is missing. As the world struggles to check the spread of Covid-19, the Muslim dawn-to-dusk fasting month of Ramzan began in various parts of the globe past weekend on a subdued note.

The usual hustle and bustle witnessed during this holiest month in Islam has been replaced with lockdown in most countries in their bid to contain the spread of the pandemic. The never seen before circumstances have reduced the festival to merely a family affair, which otherwise is marked by mass prayers and large gatherings every evening to share iftar.

While Muslims in each of the affected countries are adopting to the modified celebrations brought about by the coronavirus pandemic, the most notable change is being seen at Islam’s holiest sites, Mecca and Medina.

The Saudi Arabian government has, in a rare occurrence, closed down al-Masjid al-Haram (The Great Mosque) in Mecca and Al-Masjid an-Nabawi (The Prophet’s Mosque) in Medina for Ramzan. The move, taken for the first time in modern history, reflects both the severity of the deadly pandemic and the resolve to fight it.

According to Saudi Press Agency (SPA), King Salman

issued an order to partially lift the curfew in all regions of the kingdom from 9 am to 5 pm until May 13. The royal order, however, continued with the 24hour curfew in Mecca and in neighbourhoods previously put in isolation.

The country also allowed some commercial and economic activities, indulging in wholesale and retail stores, and shopping centers and malls, to reopen until May 13. These exemptions are in addition to the excluded activities mentioned in its previous orders.

The royal order emphasized a continuation of preventing any activity in those centres that do not implement social distancing, including beauty clinics, barber salons, sports and health clubs, recreational centers, cinemas, beauty salons, restaurants, cafes and other activities determined

by the relevant authorities, SPA reported.

Even as the Saudi authorities have eased restrictions in parts of the country, emptiness continues to surround the sacred Kaaba at the Grand Mosque which otherwise remained abuzz throughout the year.

Reports also suggest that the larger annual hajj pilgrimage, scheduled for July, could also be cancelled for the first time in recent history as Saudi Arabia has already appealed to Muslims to defer preparations.

The picture is no different elsewhere in the world.

In India, political as well as religious leaders have appealed to Muslims to offer Ramzan namaz at home in view of the nationwide lockdown in place to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

In a video message, the shahi

imam of Delhi's Jama Masjid Syed Ahmed Bukhari urged people not to venture outside unnecessarily, saying Namaz and Tarabi (ritual prayer) should be offered at home. Shahi Imam of Fatehpuri Masjid Mufti Mukarram Ahmed said those who are under quarantine and unable to observe fast can do so later on through 'Qaza'.

In Pakistan, Prime Minister Imran Khan gave in to a mounting pressure from hardline clerics and allowed conditional congregational prayers in mosques during Ramzan. The move came amid opposition from the country's doctors and nationwide lockdown in place till May 9.

In the world's most populous Muslim nation, Indonesia, the pandemic has not only dampened the festivities but also taken a toll on businesses, which bloom during monthlong Ramzan.

According to reports, mosques in Indonesia's deeply conservative Aceh province were packed after its top clerical body ruled that it is not a “red zone” area and that prayers could continue. The province is governed

by Islamic law under an autonomy agreement.

Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, have banned popular Ramzan bazaars which are a key source of income for many small traders, some of whom have shifted their businesses online.

Asian-American hoteliers in US Pregnant Indian open door to stranded students woman in UAE

seeks repatriation

WASHINGTON: A friend in need is a friend indeed.

This old adage holds true for the Asian-American hoteliers who came to the rescue of Indian students stranded in the US in lockdown imposed in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak. The hoteliers have opened their property door to the needy students, offering free accommodation and, in some cases, food.

More than 6,000 rooms in nearly 700 hotels were offered to them since March as students started running out of stocks, fund and even roof. The Indian Embassy has been running a roundthe-clock helpline for the students in the US, who number over 2,50,000.

Locations of these hotels in and around universities and colleges make them an ideal and safe place. Asian origin hotel owners from across the US have responded in large numbers to the call given by community leaders, who have roped in Asian American Hotel Owners Association (AAHOA) for the purpose.

India's Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, said in a tweet, "It is heartening to see that Indian, Indian American and other hotel owners are

coming forward to help people with accommodation in these testing times.

Together we can overcome the fight against Covid-19!"

"Owners of Gujaratiorigin as well as other parts of India, who own hotels and motels, have warmly welcomed students who sought help," said Vishwa Gujarati Samaj president C K Patel. Indian-American hotelier couple K K Mehta and Chandra Mehta have offered more than 100 rooms to Indian students at their two properties. These hotels are located near the Times Square and Barclays Center in New York City.

Other hoteliers said they have created a master list of the available hotel rooms, which was being constantly updated. Free accommodation would be allocated in coordination with the Indian Embassy

and its consulates, they said.

The Indian-American hotel owners also responded to the rescue call of the US government as many states need rooms to shelter homeless and healthcare workers. The state of California has announced the $150 million Roomkey project to quarantine affected and suspected Covid-19 homeless people.

The state's initiative has set an initial goal of securing up to 15,000 rooms for this purpose and county partners have moved 869 homeless individuals most vulnerable to Covid-19 off the street, out of shelters, and into isolation. It can be seen as a silverline for the industry hit by recession.

But for some, the arrangement has just added to hardship give the government assistance is staggered.

DUBAI: A 27-year-old pregnant Indian woman in Dubai has filed a petition in the Supreme Court of India seeking help to return home for her delivery, amidst the international travel lockdown imposed by India over the coronavirus pandemic, according to a media report. Athira Geetha Sreedharan from Kerala said she wanted to return to India for the birth of her first baby, due in the first week of July.

Sreedharan, who lives in Dubai with her husband Nithin Chandran, filed the writ petition in the apex court seeking help to return to her home country following the suspension of flights to India as part of the precautionary measures to curb the spread of the Covid-19, the report said.

India has been under lockdown since March 25 to curb the coronavirus pandemic.

All domestic and international commercial passenger flights have been suspended for this period. The first phase of the lockdown was from March 25 to April 14. The second phase began on April 15 and would end on May 3. Owing to standard flight restrictions during pregnancy, Sreedharan has submitted to the court that she can travel up till the first or second week of May. In her plea, she said she has no one to help her except her husband who cannot seek leave as he works in a construction company, the sector which is not shut down during the national disinfection and sterilisation campaign here.

In the plea she requested the apex court to direct the Indian government and the Ministry of Civil Aviation to make arrangements for her return, the report added. On April 17, the Indian government told the Kerala High Court that there was no immediate plan to bring back expatriates from Gulf and they were also granted visa extension.

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India attends SAARC video-conference hosted by Pakistan Reaffirming its commitment for greater knowledge sharing, India participated in a video conference of SAARC health ministers hosted by Pakistan to promote greater regional cooperation to deal with the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said India was represented at the conference by Director General of Health Services who was assisted by experts from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

"The virtual meeting was an occasion for India to reaffirm its strong commitment towards greater sharing of knowledge, expertise and

best practices in the joint fight against COVID-19 for the larger regional good," the MEA said.

Most SAARC countries were represented at the official level. "This event followed India's earlier initiative of hosting a video conference of senior health professionals on March 26 which had proved to be a productive and outcomeoriented exercise to promote greater regional cooperation against Covid19," the MEA said in a statement. It said India made a detailed presentation at the conference on how it is responding to the situation.

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) is a regional grouping comprising Afghanistan,

Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. All the SAARC member nations are facing the adverse social and economic impact of the pandemic. At the video conference, the Indian side briefed other countries about its efforts to ramp up the production of medicines and essential materials besides its research on drugs and vaccines to confront the pandemic.

"At the meeting, India also highlighted the successful use and promising future of new and innovative technologybased solutions such as the mobile app ''Aarogya Setu'' to maximize community outreach and intervention," the MEA said. The meeting comes over a month after India took the lead with

Prime Minister Narendra Modi bringing the SAARC leaders together through a videoconference amid rising Covid-19 cases in the populous region.

"The sentiment of cooperation and solidarity in the region intensified by Prime Minister Modi's video conference with SAARC leaders on March 15 has led to much progress in the fight against the virus through a series of concrete follow-up measures aimed at easing the suffering of the people in the region," the MEA said.

It listed setting up of the SAARC Covid-19 Emergency Fund, creation of a dedicated website

developed by SAARC Disaster Management Centre in Gandhinagar and promotion of a stand-alone network of health and trade officials for their interaction in real time among the visible practical steps to deal with the pandemic at the regional level.

India has also developed

an electronic platform for use by all SAARC countries to exchange information on response mechanism to deal with the pandemic. "As the next major step, the platform will be launched for exchange of specialized information and tools on Covid-19 among designated health professionals in the region," the MEA said.

Post Tablighi meet, India fights Covid-19 and communal distancing Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, India is fighting a two-front war. On one front, it is battling the virus. On the other, it faces the challenge of containing the spread of religious hatred fanned by the Tablighi Jamaat meet held in New Delhi last month.

The Tablighi Jamaat has come under a barrage of criticism for holding the congregation that has emerged as a Covid-19 cluster.

The Union Health Ministry maintained that last month's congregation at Nizamuddin in New Delhi has pushed the doubling rate of cases in India to 4.1 days from the estimated 7.4 days. Many members who attended the meet were tested positive for Covid-19. What fuelled the fire was the fact that a majority of overseas members had arrived on tourist visa. Still, there were reports of them conducting meetings and door to door visits across the country to spread religious messages.

The ministry, in early April, said that one of India's every five confirmed coronavirus patients was linked to the Tablighi Jamaat meet that is under the scanner for allegedly violating social distancing guidelines by convening a massive religious congregation.

The followers have been traced across 10 states and UTs in India. In states like Maharashtra and Gujarat, Muslim neighbourhoods have emerged as hotspots for the virus spread. What followed an official confirmation attributing the rise in

Covid cases due to the congregation were viral messages on social media platforms, blaming the community for jeopardising the situation. The objective of the congregation, also attended by overseas members from Malaysia, Indonesia and Pakistan, was to further its mission of reviving 'true' Islam.

Instead, the community's around 200 million people in India are finding themselves at the receiving end of a hate campaign.

In cities like Ahmedabad, where a clear ghettoization indicates the distance minority and majority maintain between them, the distrust for one another has intensified. Text and video messages in a

large number have popped warning Hindus against even maintaining commercial links with Muslims, as `they are out as human bombs'. Incidents of the attack on health workers and police in Muslim dominated areas reported from places like UP, MP, Delhi and Ahmedabad strengthen negative emotions among the majority. An incident involving Gujarat Congress MLA Imran Khedawala's meeting with Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, hours after he gave swab for Covid-19 test, fuelled the fire.

By the time Khedawala was back to Khadiya, his constituency in Ahmedabad, his Covid-19 test result had come positive. Entire unsuspecting CMO, and other top bureaucrats, had met the MLA. Rupani had no choice, but to isolate himself at the official residence in Gandhinagar. He had to look after the state affairs through technology and digital platform. Given the sensitive communal history of Gujarat, such incidents were received with a great degree of suspicion by the laymen.

The administration has taken action against both sides. Maulana Saad Kandhalvi,

Kerala youth brought home for treatment from UK A Kerala youth working in Nottingham was brought to his hometown in Kozhikode in a chartered flight for emergency medical treatment.

The youth, Prasad Das, was seriously ill and stuck at his workplace in the UK amid lockdown clamped in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

The 37-year-old Vadakara resident works in an IT firm.

On reaching the Kozhikode international airport, Das had to undergo the mandatory screening test for coronavirus before being shifted to Aster MIMS hospital in Kozhikode in a specially arranged ambulance. Last year, Das had received treatment for

gastrointestinal ailments at Aster MIMS hospital.

Recently, the ailment recurred. Since UK hospitals are preoccupied with coronavirus emergencies, Das was unable to get treatment for an infection in the local hospital. He then contacted the Aster MIMS hospital.

Soon, permissions were obtained to airlift him to Kozhikode in a chartered flight and the necessary formalities were completed with the help of state health department and district administration.

The arrangements to airlift Das was made using a WhatsApp

group led by former Supreme Court judge Kurian Joseph and former Union minister Alphons Kannanthanam, who got ready the required clearances from various ministries within two days, according to reports.

"This request for bringing the patient to Kerala came from Tom Aditya, Mayor of a UK city, who wrote to us. We moved fast contacting Secretaries of Civil Aviation, Home, Health and Family Weifare besides Kerala chief secretary and in less than two days we got the necessary approvals from the four secretaries who are the busiest people now", Kannanthanam was quoted as saying.

leader of the Tablighi Jamaat, has been booked by the Delhi police under the Epidemic Disease Act. Various state governments appealed and warned of legal action against hate mongers. But legal efforts have failed to bridge the divide between members of different faiths.

The Supreme Court refused to pass any interim orders in connection with a petition seeking action against the media for allegedly communalising the Covid-19 pandemic in light of the Tablighi Jamaat meeting. The court said it could not gag the media. The petitioners said there was violence due to the "communal headlines" and "bigoted statements" in the media about Tablighi Jamaat members and Muslims.

The petition, filed by the Jamiat Ulemae-Hind, had claimed that the media had communalised the Nizamuddin Markaz event and that some sections of print and electronic media had "demonised the entire Muslim community." The leaders and celebrities from both sides have made firm statements, some of which are unsparing.

Wrestler-turned politician Babita Phogat has hit out at critics who slammed her over her controversial tweet that 'Jamaati' is a bigger problem than the novel coronavirus pandemic in India. Her statement came after Rangoli Chandel, manager and sister of Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut, posted a controversial tweet against Tablighi Jamaat group, which led to her Twitter account being suspended.

Home quarantine for mild Covid-19 symptoms patients In a new set of guidelines by the Health Ministry, patients with mild coronavirus symptoms can now stay in home isolation. Medical officers can recommend home isolation to those patients who have been clinically categorized as a very mild case or presymptomatic case, provided they have the requisite selfisolation facility at their residence.

The guidelines also adds that the patient should regularly inform his health status to the district surveillance officer for further follow-up. The caretaker and all close contacts of such cases should take Hydroxychloroquine as a preventive medication according to the protocol and as prescribed by the treating medical officer. Currently, all suspected (awaiting test results) and confirmed cases are being isolated and managed in a hospital setting with the intent to break the chain of transmission. As per the global evidence, 80 per cent of the cases are mild cases while the remaining 20 per cent may develop complications that would require hospitalization.

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Gujarat: Four major cities to remain shut till May 3 A day after Indian government allowed standalone shops, including those selling non-essentials to open with 50 per cent staff, Gujarat on Sunday extended the complete lockdown in four major cities of Ahmedabad, Surat, Rajkot and Vadodara. The Gujarat government maintained the decision has been taken after holding consultations with major trade associations.

“The doubling rate which 8 to 10 days back was 4 days has been brought to 8 days now but we aim and strive taking this to 11 to 12 days. So, in this case, if shops open the infection rate will increase. A meeting with trade associations was held where they themselves expressed consent to not open shops.

Vijay Rupani

Thus, it has been decided that shops selling only essential items will remain open till May 3, maintaining the status quo of last 30-35 days,” said Ahmedabad Municipal Commissioner Vijay Nehra.

The government said that they have already

received written consent from major trade associations. Nehra also said that since last week, the number of daily cases have either been declining or remained static. With the efforts of the AMC, he said, the case doubling rate has been increased to 8 days from

3-4 days.

Ahmedabad, the coronavirus hotspot in Gujarat, had 1,712 active cases till Sunday, 30 of which were critical and on ventilator support. As many as 182 new cases were added Saturday evening while 193 patients were discharged. “At present, the recovery rate is more than 10%. A few days back this was similar to the death rate but now the discharge rate is double the death rate,” Nehra added.

Meanwhile, after a private hotel on the SarkhejGandhinagar highway in Ahmedabad started offering Covid care services this week, another hotel on the IsconAmbli road agreed to take Covid-19 patients and offer services at a charge of Rs 3,500 per night.

Indian partnering with Oxford to develop vaccine to combat Covid-19 A team of scientists at the University of Oxford is working to produce a vaccine to combat Covid19. Adar Poonawala's Serum Institute of India has partnered with the Oxford vaccine project as one of the seven global institutions behind manufacturing the vaccine.

Poonawala was also joined by Oxford professor Dr Adrian Hill, who is leading the team developing the vaccine. In an interview Dr Hill said the Oxford University is starting its clinical trials for the vaccine from Thursday.

The vaccinologist said several vaccines are in the clinical trials stage at the moment. 'We are starting tomorrow... Have to test its safety, to see whether it produces immune response and what protection the vaccine offers,' Dr Hill said, while

Adar Poonawala

speaking about the challenges ahead for his team.

When asked how confident is he about the vaccine, Dr Hill said there are several indicators the vaccine being developed by Oxford could be a good one. He elaborated, 'One is that this is a single dose vaccine. It is much more suitable for a pandemic situation. The technology of this vaccine has been used before so we are hopeful this will be safe as

well. The scale up process to produce large numbers is achievable. Our Indian partner, Serum Institute, will help us achieve this.'

On being asked what could go wrong in the vaccine, Dr Hill answered saying there are several risks with any vaccine and it might not be safe, which is unlikely. 'There might just not be enough people to test on to check the vaccine's efficacy. We need to be lucky in the clinical trials we choose that we get enough people without Covid-19 in the control group to show conclusively that the vaccine is working well,' he explained.

Meanwhile, Poonawala said his institute's team members are working closely with Dr Hill for the

vaccine. In around two weeks, we can produce five million doses a month and scale that up to 10 million after six months, he said.

Poonawala was also asked how confident is he that the Covid-19 vaccine being developed could be winner compared to ones that the others are making, and he said he cannot speak for others but all he can say is that the scientists at Oxford are among the best in the world. I have a lot of faith. If anyone succeeds, I'm sure Dr Hill and his colleagues will be the ones to succeed, Poonawala said.

But by when can people expect the vaccine? Dr Hill said, 'Well we are aiming hundreds of millions of doses with our partners by Q4 this year. But a word of caution, a lot of things have to go right for that on the clinical trials and scale up process.'

countries. They said the "malicious propaganda" was an attempt to create discord between India and the Gulf nations.

Indian missions in the region have warned against use of fake news and also appealed to Indian nationals to remember that discrimination in any form is against India's moral fabric. There has been a wave of angry reactions on Twitter by leading citizens from various Arab countries following allegations that Muslims were being blamed for spreading Covid-19 in several parts of India.

As India has decided to suspend the use of Covid-19 rapid testing kits and return them to Chinese manufacturing companies, Beijing expressed concerns and hoped that the two companies concerned and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) would resolve the issue reasonably.

Central Covid teams reiterate displeasure with Bengal govt

The two Interministerial Central Teams (IMCT) touring West Bengal to access the situation arising out of coronavirus have written three more letters to the state chief secretary alleging lack of cooperation and withholding information related to the pandemic.

Apurba Chandra, who heads the Kolkata team, wrote two letters to Rajiva Sinha while the third letter was sent by the north Bengal team. Reiterating their displeasure with the state government, they claimed that lockdown was not strictly followed in some parts of north Bengal.

The Union government had sent the teams last week to review the state’s handling of the pandemic in Kolkata, the worst-affected city in the state, and nearby areas as well as in north Bengal.

Chandra said that the state government’s alleged stance that it cannot “waste” its officials to accompany IMCTs for field visits violated Home Ministry letter. “The IMCT has been in Kolkata since 10 am on 20.04.2020.

Four letters have been written by the IMCT to the state government till today. No response has been received to any of the letters. A hard copy of the presentation which was made on 23.04.2020 has also not been made available,” read one of the letters.

“The Chief Secretary of West Bengal has been widely reported in the media of having stated in his daily press conference that the IMCT is free to visit anywhere and senior officers of the state government cannot waste their time accompanying the IMCT. The above stand is in violation of the order of the Ministry off Home Affairs as the state government is expected to provide logistics support and facilitate all field visits,” stated the letter.

After inspecting Dumurjala Stadium, a quarantine centre, last week the IMCT team had said people kept there were being taken for testing in cramped vans and thus violating social distancing norms.

Praising the state government for “strictly” enforcing the lockdown, the team observed that health professionals were not part of the surveillance team.

The teams said the state government was expected to provide accommodation, transportation, PPE kits and other facilities to them and asked if the state government would take responsibility for their safety and security.

“Whether the BSF accompanying the IMCT on behalf of the government free to take action to ensure safety and security of the IMCT in absence of police support,” the letter asked.

The officials also raised the issue of whether the teams were barred from leaving its camp without informing the government. “Whether it is a fact that a DCP of Bengal police informed Bengal officers at BSF guest house on April 21 that the IMCT cannot leave the campus without the permission of the state government as the lockdown is in force and if it leaves it is only permitted to go to the airport,” the letter said, adding that no senior state official accompanied IMCT members during their visits.

India hits back at OIC over the India to return Chinese rapid `baseless Islamophobia' statement testing kits for under-performance India last week hit back at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and asked the organisation from refraining baseless and misleading statements.

The IOC had asked the Indian government to check growing "Islamophobia" in the country, in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak. In India, the spread is largely linked to the congregation held by Delhi based Nizamuddin Markez in early March.

Calling the allegations

by OIC as regrettable, Indian official sources urged the organisation not

to communalise the international fight against the disease. The OIC's Independent Permanent Human Rights Commission in a tweet also said the Indian media was negatively profiling Muslims and subjecting them to discrimination.

"OIC-IPHRC urges the Indian government to take urgent steps to stop the growing tide of Islamophobia in India and protect the rights of its Muslim minority," it tweeted. Sources said there have been deliberate attempts to damage India's ties with the Arab

China's reaction came after the ICMR asked the states and Union Territories to stop any further use of the kits procured from Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Zhuhai Livzon Diagnostics. In a circular, the ICMR cited wide variations

in the performance of the kits to suspend its use.

The council asked the states to return the kits to the Union government, which then will be sent back to the suppliers. According to reports, India procured around 500,000 rapid antibody test kits from the two Chinese firms two weeks ago. Underling that the procurement of the kits from the Chinese companies has been cancelled due to underperformance, the government said no money would be lost as payment was not made to the suppliers.

Reacting to this, the Chines embassy said that

their country attached great importance to the quality of exported medical products, and it was irresponsible for certain individuals to label Chinese products as "faulty".

The embassy spokesperson said they were in touch with the ICMR and the two Chinese companies to find out the "real situation". The embassy, however, maintained that China would continue its support to India in the fight against coronavirus. It said that rapid test kits produced by these two Chinese companies were exported to and recognised in Europe, Latin America, and other Asian countries.

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India prepares comeback plan India's worst-affected (red) coronavirus zones are unlikely to see the end of lockdown on May 3. With infections likely to peak again in June-July, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday discussed on how to strike a balance between reopening the economy and containing the Covid-19 spread.

With less than a week left in the second phase of the extended lockdown, these are some of the key takeaways from Monday's video conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Ministers.

It was the fourth such meeting since March 22, two days before the lockdown was first imposed.

With Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman attending the conference for the first time, sources said the Prime Minister assured that the state of the economy is good and there is no need to panic. "We have to give importance to the economy as well as continue the fight against Covid-19… We have to be brave and bring in reforms that touch the lives of common citizens," Modi said.

On their part, many states suggested that the lockdown should continue with curbs being eased in green zones. Gujarat, which has recorded 3,548 cases so far, sought a gradual and phased exit from the lockdown. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik proposed an extension by another month from May 3, and Meghalaya's Conrad

Sangma wanted the curbs "to continue with relaxation on activities in green zones or non-Covid-affected districts".

Sources said almost all the states thought that restrictions on inter-state transportation, including by air and rail, should continue.

Kerala submitted that it wanted to maintain restrictions on inter-district and inter-state transport till May 15. "Bihar reflected that while interstate border are closed, one state is getting children from Kota, another is moving its migrant labours," a senior state functionary, who attended the meeting, said in a reference to UP and MP. Highlighting the importance of strictly enforcing guidelines in hotspots or red zone areas, the Prime Minister asked the states to work towards converting the red zones into orange zones and thereafter to green zones.

Sources said the modalities of an exit strategy for green zones would be announced closer to May 3. Modi underlined that the lockdown had yielded positive results as the country has managed to save thousands of lives in the

past one-and-a-half months.

Pointing out that India's population is comparable to that of the combined population of several countries, Modi said the country has been able to protect its people because of timely measures taken. "He, however, forewarned that the danger of the virus is far from over and constant vigilance is of paramount importance," an official note released after the video conference stated.

Sources quoted the Prime Minister as saying that he has learned from experts that Covid-19 cases could peak again in JuneJuly. "They feel that with the lockdown, the spike may be avoided for April-May, but when the lockdown is lifted in some places, it may spike in June," sources said.

Referring to the Prime Minister's remarks, the official note said: "He said that as per experts, the impact of coronavirus will remain visible in the coming months. Reiterating the mantra of 'do gaz ki doori' (maintaining a 2-metre distance), he said that masks and face covers will become part of our lives in the days ahead."

Modi also signalled that

restrictions could be voluntary, too. "…Under the circumstances, everyone's aim must be rapid responses. He pointed out that many people are selfdeclaring whether they have cough and cold or symptoms, and that this is a welcome sign," the note said.

Most states also favoured opening up zerocase districts (283 so far), limited relaxations in orange zones, and strict curbs in red zones with containment areas.

They suggested that whenever there is a fresh case in a green zone, or when an orange zone slips

into red, there should be a swift crackdown in terms of restrictions and contacttracing operations.

According to the Health Ministry, orange zones are areas that have reported no case in 14 days and while green refers to those with no fresh case in 28 days.

The video conference came on a day when 1,463 new cases were recorded in the last 24 hours, taking the total count to 28,380. The country, however, also recorded 60 deaths, the highest toll so far in a single day, taking the total number of fatalities to 886.

In Monday's meeting, the chief ministers of nine

states Meghalaya, Mizoram, Puducherry, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha, Bihar, Gujarat and Haryana - got a chance to speak. Others were given the option of either attending the meeting themselves or assigning the respective chief secretary or a state minister. Kerala, for instance, deputed its chief secretary while submitting its suggestions in writing.

On the other issues that came up, sources said while Kerala wanted Indians from overseas to be brought back, Modi said it has to be done keeping in mind that their families are not under any risk.

Covid-19 death toll in Status of Kolkata senior citizens in pandemic India climbs to 937

India's death toll due to the Covid-19 pandemic rose to 937 and the number of cases climbed to 29,974 on Tuesday, registering an increase of 51 deaths and 1,594 cases since Monday evening, said the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

The number of active cases stand at 22,010, while 7,026 people have recovered and one has migrated, it said. At least 23.44% of the infected people have recovered so far, said a senior ministry official.

However, as per the latest figures announced by various states and union territories, more than 31,200 people have been tested positive and at least 1,005 have died.

A total of 51 deaths were reported since Monday evening of which 27 fatalities were from Maharashtra, 11 from Gujarat, seven from Madhya Pradesh, five from Rajasthan and one from Jammu and Kashmir. Of the 937 deaths, Maharashtra tops the tally with 369 fatalities, followed by Gujarat at 162, MP at 113, Delhi at 54, Rajasthan at 46 and Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh at 31 each. The death toll reached 26 in Telengana, 24 in Tamil Nadu while West Bengal and Karnataka have reported 20 each.

Punjab has registered 18 fatalities so far. The disease has claimed seven lives in Jammu and Kashmir, four in Kerala while Jharkhand and Haryana have recorded three COVID-19 deaths each.

Bihar has reported two deaths, while Meghalaya, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha and Assam have reported one fatality each.

Obituary

Prafulbhai Patel

This is to announce the tragic demise of Dr Prafulbhai J Patel Rtd Surgeon (Tarapur) Baltimore. U S A, from Coronavirus. Prafulbhai was taken off the ventilator and slowly departed from this world surrounded by nurses, as his family watched through a virtual link. He is survived by his wife, son, and daughter-in-law.

Calcutta Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology (CMIG), Regional Resource and Training Centre on Ageing, under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, India, explored the plight of senior citizens during the current pandemic.

CMIG researched the status of senior citizens with respect to availability of food and essential supplies, community support, role of next generation, access to caregivers and domestic help, use of technology for communication, access to banking services, access to medical services for health conditions apart from Covid-19 infection (comorbidities) and overall physical and psychological well being.

Seventy-yearold Shanti Ranjan Chakraborty who lost his wife recently lives with his only son and daughter- in -law. Though family has been supporting him throughout the pandemic he wished he had more comfortable access to banking facilities. He said “My area is heavily populated and it would be helpful to have independent queues and counters for senior citizens in the banks. The post

offices are also closed and it is challenging for my age and health condition.

Regarding food and medicines, although food is being cooked at home and is not a problem, home delivery of essential medicines are being delayed for weeks to months as suppliers and delivery personnel have heavy demand and need to deliver in bulk.”

Sixty-five-year-old old Dr. Bharti Neogi is a homeopathic practitioner and has never faced such crisis in her 35 year career.

“Operations are being cancelled and many ill persons are waiting for pathological tests. They are sometimes approaching me and I am helping people as much as possible with my knowledge and even giving surplus food and commodities to fellow senior citizens in my neighbourhood.” But what is more worrying for her is

that her only son lives in Toronto and his recent trip to his mother got cancelled. “My son not being able to travel because of travel ban makes me more anxious.

To cope with this I have made several WhatsApp groups to stay closely connected with other senior citizens so that we all can share our experiences, exchange information and stay updated about recent developments in Covid-19 outbreak.” Sixty-one-yearold Molly Ghosh and 68year-old Sushmita Dey are all worried because their sons were living in foreign countries. The only way they can stay connected is through internet and technology. The pandemic and shift towards technology has taken them unprepared. Many are frustrated when they see their younger counterparts being able to order food online while they struggle.

Structured models are needed to support senior citizens’ management of technology.

All senior citizens have to do their household chores by themselves because their

domestic help are not being able to come. Some even fear if domestic aid came and anything went wrong, neighbours might report them. There are many elderly who need professional caregivers and physiotherapists to come and attend them in home. In instances where they are unable to come, families will have to provide necessary support to the closest accuracy.

CMIG in collaboration with other organisations has conducted “basic life support courses” where family members are trained to help the elderly patient when professional help is missing. CMIG chief functionary and gerontologist Dr Indrani Chakravarty observes “Disintegration of joint families make senior citizens live in nuclear families with many of them being parents of NRI. In a pandemic like this community support, volunteers, youth from schools and colleges are playing a crucial role to help the elderly. In an era of digitisation, elderly are not at par with the next generation in terms of digital literacy so forming closed groups and sharing and complementing each other’s knowledge can be helpful.”

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in brief

HEALTH

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2 May - 8 May 2020

Air pollution in London falls by 50% On 23rd April, London reported dramatic improvements in its air quality following the coronavirus lockdown, with dangerous emissions at some of the capital’s busiest networks falling by almost 50% according to data released by Sadiq Khan.

The Mayor of London stated that anti-pollution measures introduced from 2017 had already led to a 35% drop across the capital of the harmful gas nitrogen dioxide, NO2 – rising to a 44% reduction inside central London’s ultra-low emissions zone (ULEZ).

However following the reduction in tube services and with the introduction of the self-isolation measure , there have been further big reductions, with NO2 falling by a further 27% across London, and by almost half at some of the worst po llution hotspots. Whilst these figures highlight a massive reduction in NO2, particulate pollution, which comes largely from domestic wood burning and agriculture, and which is very harmful to human health, remains a severe threat in London. Air pollution, results in lung diseases, heart attacks, asthma, effects on pregnancies and on intelligence levels.

Due to coronavirus lockdown many cities across the UK have begun to unveil ambitious cycling and walking schemes to ensure people can commute whilst maintaining the environmental benefits, in terms of cleaner air and safer streets. However, the mayor has urged Londoners especially that these measures should not be temporary.

Study notes, smokers less likely to contract coronavirus?

A recent study at a major Paris hospital highlights that a substance in tobacco – potentially nicotine – may prevent smokers from catching Covid-19. Clinical trials of nicotine patches are awaiting the approval of the country’s health authorities.

Whilst nicotine may protect smokers from the virus, but those who have caught it often develop more serious symptoms because of the toxic effect of tobacco smoke on the lungs. These findings are to be verified in a clinical study across France in which frontline health workers, hospital patients with Covid-19 virus and those in intensive care will be given nicotine patches.

The study has also indicated that nicotine could prevent the immune system going into overdrive due to the infection, as has been seen among some of the worstaffected cases.

However, researchers have emphasised that people should not start smoking, pointing out it kills half of those who start.

Responding to the study, Public Health England said, "Smoking tobacco is known to damage the lungs and airways causin g a range of severe respiratory problems. The evidence clearly shows Covid-19 virus attacks the respiratory system, which explains why smokers are at greater risk. A small but highly impactful survey from China finds that smokers with Covid-19 are 14 times more likely to develop severe disease."

Doctors recommend Vitamin D supplements amidst lockdown Health authorities have recommended regular intake of Vitamin D supplements amidst coronavirus lockdown as people staying indoors now have limited exposure to sunlight. Public Health England has advised people to take 10 micrograms of Vitamin D a day to ensure healthy bones and muscles whilst self-isolating.

Authorities however, have debunked the theory that vitamin D reduces the risk of contracting the coronavirus, or becoming ill as a result, as some reports have recently claimed stating that there is no evidence to state otherwise.

Vitamin D is created by the body in response to direct sunlight on the skin, and it is thought that people may not be producing enough of it because of isolation measures. It helps the body to absorb calcium and phosphate, which keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy.

To Our Readers

We are publishing these items in good faith, kindly consult your Doctor before you try to implement any advice. We do not hold any responsibility for its efficacy...

Yoga sessions for prenatal and postnatal care Staying active, mentally, physically and emotionally during pregnancy is of utmost importance, and coronavirus pandemic has only made this situation difficult for everyone. And maintaining a balance of the mental and physical strength during these times is more important than ever. Besides, following a strict diet and a routine ironed out with all your leisure activities, dedicating early morning hours to yoga can help keep your body supple.

According to the Indian Guru, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Yoga asanas relieve tension around the cervix by opening up the pelvic region thus, preparing expecting mothers for labor and delivery. However, all to-be-mums should first check with their GP or Gynaecologist before moving ahead in case of any special provisions and complexities.

1. Alternate nostril breathing This pranayam technique is very simple to follow. Spread your mat on the floor and your sitting position should be such that you fold your legs on top of the other. Now, use your fingers to momentarily block one nostril for a few seconds as you inhale from the other and repeat the same with the other nostril. Continue this for 16 cycles, and it will help maintain your body temperature and also enhances oxygen supply within your body which will help with the baby’s growth.

2. Bee breathing yoga For this asana you are required to sit up straight with your eyes closed and place your index fingers on your ears. There is a cartilage between your cheek and ear. Place your index fingers on the cartilage. Take a deep breath in and as you breathe out, gently press the cartilage. You can keep the cartilage pressed or press it in and out with your fingers while making a loud humming sound like a bee. Breathe in again and continue the same pattern 3-4 times

and this will help soothe your headaches while regulating your blood pressure.

3. Lying down As part of this asana you are required to lie flat on your back, preferably without any props or cushions and close your eyes. Keep your legs comfortable apart and let your feet and knees relax completely, toes facing to the sides. Place your arms alongside, yet a little spread apart from your body.

Leave your palms open, facing upward.

Keep breathing slowly, gently, deeply and allow your breath to relax you more and more. The incoming breath energizes the body while the outgoing breath brings relaxation. Ensure you don’t fall asleep. After about 10-20minutes when you feel fully relaxed, keeping your eyes closed, slowly roll onto your right side. Lie in that position for a minute or so. Then, taking the support of your right hand, gently sit up into a seated pose. Keep your eyes closed and take a few deep breaths in and out as you gradually become aware of your environment and the body. It helps in alleviating any stress from the body and repairs cells. This helps selfhealing is vital, as pregnant women should avoid taking pills.

4. Butterly technique This is a slightly more complex asana and you should practice this only if you feel comfortable. For this asana, you will have to bend your knees and bring your feet towards the pelvis. The

soles of your feet should touch each other whilst ensuring your spine is straight. You are required to hold your feet lightly with your hands and place them underneath the feet for maximum support. Take a deep breath in. Breathing out, press the thighs and knees downward towards the floor. Now start flapping both the legs up and down like the wings of a butterfly. Start slow and gradually increase the speed.

Keep breathing normally throughout. Press yo ur elbows on the thighs or on the knees, pushing the knees and thighs closer to the floor. Feel the stretch in the inner thighs and take long, deep breaths, relaxing the muscles more and more. Take a deep breath in and bring the torso up. As you exhale, gently release the posture.

This helps in smooth delivery and aids in intestine and bowel movement. It is also a good stretch for the inner thighs, groins and knees, improving flexibility in the groin and hip region.

5. Legs up against the wall This requires you to be in close proximity of a wall. You can begin by siting with your feet on the floor and your left side directly against the wall.

While exhaling, move so your back is on the floor and your feet are flat against the wall. Using your arms, gently wiggle your body closer to the wall until your sitting bones are directly against the wall and your legs are pointed vertically above you with both legs directly above your hips. Rest your head against the floor. Ensure your pelvis is in a neutral position. If you experience discomfort while in this pose, lift your hips and place your bolster underneath your hips and then place your hands to rest on your belly or beside your torso on the floor. Stay in the posture for up to 15 minutes. To exit the posture, gently bend your knees and push your body away from the wall. Turn to your right side and lie in fetal position before pressing yourself up to a seated position. It releases the tension from your back and your knees.

Lockdown diet: How to binge on healthy meals Coronavirus lockdown has forced us to work in quarantine at homes meaning, we are raiding our refrigerators more often than always. But how to ensure you binge on healthy snacks whilst watching your weight besides incorporating nutritious meals.

Experts warn that the worst foods to snack on are those that provide empty calories, contain saturated fats and excess carbohydrates. Foods that are micronutrient-poor and very low in essential vitamins and minerals – usually sugary and processed fatty foods like cakes, biscuits, crisps, milk chocolate, ice cream, and pastries

should be consumed in minimal portions is not avoided completely.

Foods with a highwater content, specially fruits such as grapes, apples, kiwi, melons; lowsalt broth soup; homemade smoothies; corn cobs; mixed salad bowls should be consumed especially for breakfast for they are filling even as they are light.

Your diet should also contain fibre rich foods which are not only physically filling but also help produce hunger-suppressing short-chain fatty acids in the gut. Thus, an increase intake of raw vegetable crudités, carrots, cucumber slices with hum-

mus, or even edamame and olives can nourish both your skin as well as repress your binging habits. Other protein-rich foods to curb our desire to crunch and munch through lockdown include boiled eggs, fatfree yogurt, fat-free cottage cheese; tofu dices, bean salads, hemp seeds, wholegrain rice cakes; pro-

tein bars, wholewheat cookies, dairy-free coconut yogurt et al.

Focus more on homecooked meals as opposed to ready-to-eat snack bars from Sainsburys and keep replenishing yourself with water. Staying hydrated is important for your skin, oxygen circulation and body weight.

28 LIFESTYLE & FOOD

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2 May - 8 May 2020

5 REASONS TO START JOURNALING NOW AND HOW Psychologist Mamta Saha The world has stopped, and we have been presented with the gift of time. How we choose to use that time is up to us. Following old habits and expecting a different result, could be defined as ‘insane’. Let’s try something, take a blank sheet of paper and start to pen your thoughts and feelings. How does that feel? Welcome to the world of journaling. Here are 5 good reasons to make this a habit.

Writing freely is cathartic. We spring cleans our minds and hearts. Thoughts, feelings, views and perspectives may have been weighing you down. By writing you can start to organize what is important and what isn’t.

You start to see things in perspective, clearer than before and gain the ability to self-manage.

Journaling is great for emotional, spiritual and mental vitality. By journaling we start to manage our stress (which impacts vitality levels). Studies have shown that expressive writing for 15-20 minutes a day can build our immunity, lower our blood pressure and improve our liver functionality.

Journaling is a smart way for you to track subtle growth, it helps you to magnify feelings of ‘gratitude and celebration’. This can make us feel confident and improves or self-esteem and self-worth. When we revisit what we have written, we can track the ups and the downs. We are less likely to feel a sense of Imposter syndrome as we know our path.

Journaling is deeply healing. Sharing with no interruption and judgement. When you express feelings that are deeply rooted - any negativity dissipates.

Your accumulated wisdom makes you more conscious around the choices you make going forward and enables you to develop healthier relationships with yourself and others.

You will need a quiet space to journal, light a candle and listen to your favourite music. Take as long as you need, write one word, a sentences or pages of text, worry less about it looking good and focus more on scribing all the things that are floating in your head and on your heart. Morning and evening are a good time to practice and there really is no rule book, if you feel heavy and want to lighten your load, this is for you. For more follow me on Instagram: Saha_Mamta or visit www.mamtasaha.com.

Bye-Bye Dalgona, flavoured coffee is here

If you have had enough of Dalgona Coffe, try this new coffee with flavours whipped cream that has taken over the internet by storm.

Insta user going by the username sweetportfolio shared this cool recipe on her page and got more than 400,000 likes.

Other people took to it and started making other variations of it such as chocolate whipped milk, whipped Nutella, and whipped matcha for those who prefer healthier options.

Social media users who are sharing this recipe are calling it more eye catchy and easier to make as compared to Dalgona coffee.

How to make whipped flavoured milk: 1. Take 1 tbsp of flavoured strawberry or any flavoured milk powder and add 4 tbsp (1/4 cup) of heavy whipping cream in a mixing bowl.

2. Mix them until smoothly blended. This may be bit of an arm exercise, but make sure the mixture is smooth and silky.

3. To make it Insta-worthy and a little fancier, sprinkle the powder milk on the rim of the glass by putting the glass upside down on the powder.

4. For those wanting to have it cold, mix ice in the glass which is more than half-filled and add the blended mixture to complete it.

Eat healthy, keep virus away Precaution is better than cure. And, when it comes to building immunity, food is the most essential factor. Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, eating healthy food remains an integral part of maintaining your health. While there are no specific foods that can help protect you from the virus, a nutritious diet can boost your immune system or help you fight off symptoms. You may not be able to share meals with friends and loved ones, but there are lots of other ways to eat well and support your health at this difficult time.

To eat a healthy diet, you may need to make some changes. Remember that

you can change your eating habits a little bit at a time. Small changes are easier to make and can lead to better health.

Here are some ways to make healthy changes in your eating habits: Keep more fruits, low-fat dairy products (low-fat milk and low-fat yogurt), vegetables, and whole-grain foods at home and at work. Focus on adding healthy food to your diet, rather than just taking unhealthy foods away.

Try to eat a family meal every day at the kitchen or dining table. This will help you focus on eating healthy meals.

Buy a healthy-recipe book, and cook for yourself. Chew gum when you cook so you won't be tempted to snack on the

Get your hands dirty But remember to wash them for 45 seconds afterward Your local cash and carry upon which you used to rely to source exotic Asian fruits and vegetables have either shut down or hiked up their prices amidst stock shortages and import surcharges.

Although you may still be able to venture out, whilst maintaining social distancing measures there is always that fear at the back of your mind about contracting the infection through food supplies even if the virus so far is not airborne or waterborne. It is time you revisit the Neolithic ages and get your hands and knees dirty.

Mint is regarded with high esteem in Asian households for its dual medicinal and culinary purposes. Often the pricier and leafier of the other vegetables, just 30gm of these leaves are available at the Sainsbury’s for 75p. What if you can cultivate your own organic farm at your backyard? Growing mint does not require any past gardening expertise and is the easiest vegetable to begin tending with.

Potting it right Mint roots are advised to be planted in a pot of any size- not necessarily deep- as the roots tend to grow closer to the surface. If you don’t have an earthen pot, do not use a glass jar, the leaves will perish and the roots never grow. Instead, if you are privileged to have a lawn or a back garden you can shave off the turf to create your own vegetable bed. The excess cut turf can be piled into black plastic bags which over time would decompose into compost or soil. You can even use makeshift recyclable containers as pots by drawing holes at the bottom surfaces of these containers so that it

allows air and water to seep in and out of the soil. Mint does not require any specific soil component and grows well using multi-purpose compost easily available at DIY click and collect sheds.

Planting mint is quite simple, you need to collect a few mint stem cuttings. You can easily get them from a local farmers market or Sainsbury or any other local cash carry. After shedding the leaves, you can plant the cuttings in your pot or veg bed. Keep out of direct sunlight for about a week to allow it to root and adjust to its new environment. The soil should be moist but do not waterlog the pot. Moderate watering is the only requirement. In three weeks, the roots will become solid and the leaves will be bunching up in abundance.

Mint and lime mojito for summery afternoons Summer is at our doorstep. Instead of venturing out for a summery Aperol spritz to your next-door beer garden pub, you can crush 10 homegrown mint leaves, 2 lemon wedges, one tumbler of soda, some old rum from your grandfather’s cellar and voila! shake up a fresh mojito of your own with a couple of ice cubes!

ingredients. Put your snacks on a plate instead of eating from the package. This helps you control how much you eat.

Don't skip or delay meals, and be sure to schedule your snacks. If you ignore your feelings of hunger, you may end up eating too much or choosing an unhealthy snack. If you often feel too hungry, it can cause you to focus a lot on food.

Eat your meals with others when you can. Relax and enjoy your meals, and don't eat too fast. Try to make healthy eating a pleasure, not a chore.

Drink water instead of high-sugar drinks (including high-sugar juice drinks).

From trentino to quarantine: the history of imposed isolation One of the several jokes doing round in the post-Covid19 world is that opposite of Valentine is Quarantine.

Jokes apart, when latter is the reality ever wonder about the history attached with the word? According to a report, it isn’t the first time that people have been kept isolated to prevent the spread of disease. There are mentions of it in the Bible, and in a Persian medical encyclopedia from 1025 – both to contain leprosy. And when the plague hit Europe in the 1340s, wiping out more than half the population, it marked the first formal measure to separate the infected, rather than banish sick people to the fields to die.

The first isolation stations were along the coast of Dubrovnik, the setting for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones, which was controlled by Venetians in 1377. This is where ships arriving from plague-affected ports had to follow ‘trentino’, a 30-day wait to ensure passengers and cargo were uncontaminated and trade could resume.

Other European cities adopted the practice. But the cooling-off period was eventually extended to 40 days, probably to allow time for the bacteria to die out. The term changed from trentino to quarantine – from quaranta, Italian for 40.

Quarantines proved so effective, and many cities built dedicated isolation hospitals at their ports. They called them lazaretto (from Lazarus, the biblical character who came back from the dead). But then, as now, isolation systems were complicated and classist.

SAY CHEESEEE! The schools are indefinitely closed and kids are always hungry. Work from home isn’t all luxury in a coronavirus pandemic when you and yours truly are constantly trying to distribute your shopping and nutritious cooking chores. Here is the easy, peasy creamy mac& cheese. A quick fix and a diary rich lunch cooked and served in 20 minutes.

Ingredients required: ● Elbow macaroni ● Butter ● White flour ● Milk ● Cheddar cheese, cream cheese ● Mozzarella cheese ● Salt, Italian herbs/Oregano (optional) You can start by boiling macaroni

in a large cauldron of water. Add a pinch of salt to it for flavouring to the macaroni.

While the pasta is being boiled, you need to fish out a pan, pre-heat it for two minutes until it is hot and add two table-spoons of butter. As the butter melts, add some white flour to it and constantly whisk it until a golden-brown solid and even sauce like consistency is achieved.

Lower the flame and start adding milk to it and some cream cheese.

Constantly whisk the sauce until a thick liquid creamy consistency is achieved. Eventually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese and blend it with your whisk. Now, check

your macaroni, rinse it and toss it in the sauce prepared. Add a tablespoon of salt, some oregano and italian herbs for a tinge of the garlic flavouring and mix. Finally, sprinkle some more shredded cheese on top. You can garnish the dish with some chopped up fresh parsley. Ya está! Lunch is sorted in 20 minutes!

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BOLLYWOOD

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2 May - 8 May 2020

Salman has 40 mn fan following on Twitter

Salman Khan, the 100 million club star, has become the second Bollywood actor to have 40 million fan following on micro-blogging site Twitter. Only Badshah of Bollywood, Amitabh Bachchan, has more social media fans than the Bhaijaan of the Bollywood.

The charismatic actor has left the audience on the edge of their seats with his stunning on-screen performances in back to back hits. And, even during coronavirus lockdown, he makes sure to keep his fans updated on his life.

The 'Bharat' star has surpassed the 40 million mark on Twitter and becomes the third Indian to achieve this milestone.

With Amitabh Bachchan being the only Indian actor with more followers than Salman on Twitter, the versatile actor's fan following seems to be increasing

with each day. Meanwhile, the fans of Bhaijaan have flooded social media with congratulatory tweets. In self-quarantine at his Panvel farmhouse in Navi Mumbai, the actor, writer, producer also composed and sung a special song on the pandemic dedicating to his fans.

The song titled 'Pyaar Karona' focused on the message of love and hope in a difficult time, such as now and was an instant hit.

It is among the top trending items on various platforms. Meanwhile, on the work front, he will next be seen in Prabhudheva directorial, 'Radhe: Your Most Wanted Bhai.' The movie also stars Disha Patani, Randeep Hooda, Jackie Shroff and others in pivotal roles. Apart from that, Salman has also announced, 'Kabhi Eid Kabhi Diwali' where he will be seen paired opposite Pooja Hegde.

Varun Dhwana slammed for a handshake

Kareena's candid shots Kareen Kapoor is making the most of Covid-19 lockdown by spending her whole time with her husband Saif Ali Khan and son Taimur amid lockdown.

After making her social media debut earlier this year, the actor has given a sneak peek into their lives in selfquarantine time. And, she now has also shared the explanation behind her candid shots on Instagram.

Talking about how she also prefers to keep it easy in life, the actor said, “I can’t be dressed in couture all the time.

And, I do have days when my hair is out of place. The thing is, I want to be as real as possible and be dressed in what makes me comfortable. I can’t sit dressed up all day. It gets to me that people are looking at what I’m wearing all the time and scrutinizing it. There are times when I just want to chill in a simple set of clothes and feel like myself, keep my hair tied or loose and just let things be.”

Kareena's latest unfiltered selfie has become an instant hit. She shot

herself while Saif and Taimur were busy painting their balcony wall.

“Meanwhile... I just sat there, staring in the wonder of what was being created. PS: The zit on my face didn’t get the memo of no personal visits and social distancing... #HugeMess.”

She captioned it, “If there is a wall

Anil Kapoor wants films rejected by Amitabh Bachchan The 'Jhakass' actor has shown a unique style of finding new work in films. In a recent interview with portal Film Companion, Anil Kapoor shared how he has roped in Abhishek Bachchan for the job.

Anil said that he is only taking a cue from the book of yesteryear superstars such as Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor. He said they would often recommend each other for film roles, which they thought would better suit their colleagues. He added that he has told Abhishek to pass roles that his dad, Amitabh Bachchan has rejected, to him.

“That’s why I call up Abhishek and say ‘jo jo films daddy nahi karenge mere paas bhej dena (whatever films your dad rejects, send them to me)’,” Anil said. “Tu bhi nahi karega, teri bhi koi film ho toh mereko bhej dena (Send me films that you reject as well),” he added. Given his ageless looks, the actor was confident that he can pull off both age brackets.

The actor of multiple blockbusters also keeps busy with a strict workout regime. Even in lockdown, he is making sure that his health does not take a backseat. On Instagram, Anil shared a few pictures that show him working out at home and motivating fans to stay fit.

“You are your own motivation! #StayHomeStayFit #MondayMotivaton #LockdownSpiritsUp,” Anil captioned the post. He added: “Challenges are what makes life interesting.”

Anil is in lockdown with his wife Sunita. His daughter Sonam is in Delhi with her husband Anand Ahuja and his parents. The younger couple flew out of London right in time before the lockdown was announced in India.

Sonam had said in an interview that they wanted to be near their parents in case of any emergency.

Explanation time for Vicky Kaushal

'Badlapur' actor Varun Dhawan was slammed for setting a “bad example”, when he tweeted a picture of himself shaking hands with a policeman. Neither of them was wearing masks in the photo. “Where is social distancing, mask and gloves. Idiot is shaking hands with a policeman risking him of infection. Bad example set by this actor,” a Twitter user wrote. Varun then clarified that it was an old picture.

that’s blocking your creativity... Try painting on it #QuaranTimDiaries #InhousePicasso.” Another was a picture of Saif painting flowers on a door in the balcony. “When Saif told me he got me flowers, I had a different idea in mind. Quarantine gifts be like...” she captioned it.

'Uri' actor Vicky Kaushal has dismissed rumours that he violated the lockdown rules by stepping out of his house.

He called reports of he being reprimanded by the police baseless. He clarified that the news of him getting reprimanded by the Mumbai Police for breaking the rules of the lockdown is entirely false.

“There are baseless rumours suggesting that I broke the lockdown and got pulled up by the cops. I’ve not stepped out of my house since the lockdown started. I request people not to heed the rumours. @MumbaiPolice,” the actor tweeted.

Sonakshi Sinha also had mired into similar controversy, which she had to clarify. Sonakshi also tagged the Mumbai Police and Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray’s Twitter handles and asked how she could stop people from spreading baseless rumours, which sparked a war of words between her and Vivek.

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Police complaint against Kangana Ranaut A police complaint has been filed against Bollywood actor Kangana Ranaut allegedly for “misusing power and promoting hatred.'' Advocate Ali Kaashif Khan Deshmukh, a resident of Mumbai, filed the complaint after the controversy queen released a video in support of her sister Rangoli Chandel.

The twitter account of the latter was suspended for controversial tweet targeting a particular community.

He says while “one sister” has called for killings and violence, the “other sister” has come out in support of her for the same despite nationwide criticism and suspension of her Twitter account.

The complainant accused the actor and her sister-cum-manager Rangoli of “misusing their stardom, fan base, fame, money, power and influence with an aim and intent to promote hatred in the country for their personal benefits and gains.” In a recently shared video on Instagram, Kangana has said if anyone could find a tweet where her sister Rangoli has said anything offensive, “then we both will publicly apologize”.

by Vallisa Chauhan

Genre: Biographical Drama Duration: 99 mins

An inspirational true story of a high school football star Brian Banks is a teenager with dreams of playing for the NFL, until one day when he is accused of rape and is advised to plead guilty by his lawyer and this will change his path of life.

Old tweet on Azaan returns to haunt Sonu Nigam in Dubai A deleted tweet on Azaan landed singer Sonu Nigam in the soup while being stranded in Dubai amid coronavirus global lockdown. The Mumbai resident was paying a visit to his son in the Gulf country.

Screenshots of a three-year-old deleted tweet were shared over the past few days with people in Dubai by tweetaratis, asking the police to take action against him.

In April 2017, Sonu wrote on Twitter that despite being a non-Muslim, he is woken up by the Azaan. "When will this religiousness end in India," he had written in a tweet after which he had faced backlash. The famous Bollywood singer had also said that the 'noise from loudspeakers' of temples and gurudwaras also added to the noise pollution.

The singer has deleted his Twitter handle after the backlash in 2017, saying that it was a nuisance. However, the comment has resurfaced over the past few days.

Earlier, UAE princess Hend Al Qassimi had taken a strong notice of Islamophobia on social media and had called out a series of tweets by a user named Saurabh Upadhyay. He had posted tweets attacking Muslims over the Tablighi Jamaat congregation held in March in Delhi that led to a surge of coronavirus cases in India. Princess Qassimi shared the screenshots of his tweets. She warned that those engaging in racism and Islamophobia will have to pay the penalty and will be made to leave UAE.

A now adult Banks living with his mum is on parole after being released from prison. A new law implemented means all registered offenders on parole must wear an anklet and are not allowed within 2000 feet of parks and schools. This means that his career as a footballer can be over once again and as he has a criminal record it is hard for him to get a job. In other words the stakes for him are quite high.

Banks contacts the California Innocence project once again and tries to get them to reconsider and take him on.

They encourage him to write a plea of Habeas Corpus to the California legal system to get them to retry him but this fails. Justin Brooks the founder of the innocence project then explains to Banks that without new evidence there is nothing that can be done.

We find out that Kennisha, the girl that accused him of rape actually lied. Banks had met her in the corridor and after they were kissing, Banks heard a teacher, got scared and ran. As a teenager Kennisha felt duped and so she accused him of rape. When he was tried, Banks was let down by the justice system who did not do their checks properly. Although all the evidence showed that he did not rape her, his lawyer tells him to take a deal and remorse courses through him with the idea of not being allowed to see his mum. Thus, Banks makes a decision and this is what ends up getting him a 6 year jail sentence.

Taapsee Pannu's self-love Sharing a picture from an ad shoot, Taapsee Pannu, on her social media accounts, mentioned how it taught her to accept her flaws.

In the picture, she is seen in a blue saree while sporting short curly hair and a bindi on her forehead. She wrote, “This is like a BTS from a shoot I did for Gaurang.

I remember how I was concerned that my short hair won’t suit the sarees he makes Coz they r so traditional but he was so nonchalant about it n said we will use your original hair length, colour, texture, everything natural, everything YOU. That really made me think sometimes you just have to embrace how you look only then the world will embrace it. Shying away from how you look is never going to help you grow in life. The day I accepted my flaws was the day I came into my true self n my flaws helped me get a unique identity #Throwback #Archive #QuarantinePost.”

Old classmates are interviewed again but nothing helps until Kennisha adds Banks as a friend on Facebook.

Banks decides he will try and trick her into confessing she lied which she does but this cannot be used as Kennisha didn’t know she was being taped.

After talking to District Attorney Mateo, he is offered a retrial and Banks’ conviction is overturned. He is finally able to cut off his anklet and return to some sort of normality and he ends up later being signed by the Atlanta Falcons.

Brian Banks is an amazing inspirational true story of a young teenager who is wrongly accused of rape and shows how with determination someone can prove their innocence as long as they have faith in themselves.

You can get in touch with Vallisa: djvallisa@gmail.com

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Tabu may play the lead in 'Anadhadhun's' Tamil remake inal. In the interview, he confirmed that the shoot of the remake was scheduled to start in April. However, the same has been postponed due to the ongoing lockdown amid coronavirus pandemic.

Thiyagarajan also quashed reports that maestro Ilayaraja will be composing tunes for the film. He said that he will reveal the music director soon. Thiagarajan said many production houses vied to acquire the remake rights of 'Andhadhun.' "Almost every

Producer Thiyagarajan has confirmed that he's in talks with Tabu to play the lead in Tamil remake of 'Andhadhun'. National award-winning Hindi blockbuster 'Andhadhun' has also Tabu in the leading role, along with Aayshmaan Khraana. Tamil remake will have a Thiyagarajan's son in Khuraana's role.

In his recent interview, Thiyagarajan said he has a word with Tabu. They are keen to make her reprise her own role from the orig-

production house and star in our industry was trying to get the remake rights. But I've been in talks with the Bollywood production house since its release because the script is a powerful one.

Every time a star expressed interest, the rate shot up, but in the end, since I've a good rapport with the production house, I managed to get the rights for this film as well," he said.

Chiranjeevi passes 'BeTheRealMan' challenge Actor Chiranjeevi passed the challenge given to him by actor Jr NTR. He was nominated to do house chores and upload a video for the same. In the video he shared on Twitter, he's seen vacuum cleaning the living room and making 'pesarattu' like a professional for his mother.

"Here it is Bheem Tarak. And I now nominate KTR and my friend Rajinikanth. #BeTheRealMan challenge," Chiranjeevi tweeted.

Chiranjeevi's 'pesarattu' making skills has already won the internet. In the video, his ability to flip the 'pesarattu' has become the talking point ever since he shared the video.

The 'BeTheRealMan' challenge which was started by Arjun Reddy director Sandeep Reddy Vanga has now gone viral. Jr NTR had also nominated actors Nagarjuna, Venkatesh and filmmaker Koratala Siva to take up the challenge. Director SS! Rajamouli posted a video of himself helping his wife in

household chores. He nominated Jr NTR and Ram Charan, the stars of his upcoming project 'RRR', apart from his

Vijay donates ÂŁ130,000 for Covid-19 fund Tamil star Vijay has donated pound 130,000 towards Covid-19 relief fund. Reports said Vijay has donated Rs 25,00,000 towards PM relief fund, Rs 50,00,000 to Tamil Nadu CM relief fund, Rs 10,00,000 to Kerala CM relief fund, Rs 25,00,000 to Film Employees Federation of South India (FEFSI), Rs 500,000 each to the CM relief funds of Andhra, Telangana and Karnataka apart from Rs 500,000 to Puducherry.

Vijay has also donated some undisclosed amount to the welfare of members of his fan clubs in Tamil Nadu. On the career front, Vijay will be next seen on screen in the upcoming Tamil film 'Master', which has been directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. 'Master' stars Vijay in the role of a college professor. Vijay Sethupathi will be seen playing the antagonist.

Malavika Mohanan, who made her Tamil debut via Rajinikanth's 'Petta', plays the leading lady. The film also stars A n d r e a Jeremiah in a key role.

'Baahubali' producer Shobu Yarlagadda, filmmaker Sukumar and composer MM Keeravani.

Priyamani to play Naxalite in Duggabati's next film Actor Priyamani is set to play a Naxalite in Rana Daggubati's upcoming Telugu political thriller 'Virataparvam 1992', which also stars Sai Pallavi. She was last seen in Zee 5's Ateet.

In her latest interview, Priyamani opened up about her role in the film. "Yes, I am playing a Naxalite. It's going to be a different kind of film altogether. The only thing I can share at the moment is that it's a true story," Priyamani said, confirming she's also part of Venkatesh starrer 'Naarappa', the Telugu remake of Tamil film 'Asuran.'

Priyamani also confirmed she's completed shooting for her upcoming Kannada project 'Doctor 56', which will also to be released in Tamil. She also has the second season of 'Family Man' and Bollywood film 'Maidaan' in her kitty.Apart from m o v i e s , Priyamani will also be seen in two upcoming reality shows. The details of which are yet to be officially announced.

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Cricket Australia considering expanded 5-Test India series The prospect of a five-Test series between Australia and India is gaining traction as cricket authorities contemplate ways of making up for lost time when the peak of the coronavirus pandemic passes. Cricket Australia (CA) chief executive Kevin Roberts says all options will be considered for hosting India, the sport’s major income generator, in December and January.

That could include playing all games between Australia and Virat Kohli’s India squad in one venue and expanding the Test series to five games.Australia is also pushing ahead with plans to stage the T20 World Cup, which is slated to run from Oct. 18 to Nov. 15.

“If you contemplate the prospect of the international season in particular being affected, we have an issue of (losing revenue of) hundreds of millions of dollars on our hands, so it’s very important to plan proactively for that,”

Roberts said during a teleconference. “We’ll be doing everything possible to launch and stage a season in 2020-21.”

That could include a T20 World Cup devoid of fans at games.

“What we do know is that the bigger returns from the broadcast rights around the event that are generated by the ICC are very important to all of our counterparts around the cricket world,” Roberts said.

“So it’s incumbent on us to do everything possible to stage and host the T20

World Cup.” Roberts said Australia and India had a “shared desire” to move to a fiveTest series in the future, which would put it on a par with the biennial Ashes games against England. “We

don’t know what prospect there is of that next season, but certainly with a changing landscape... we won’t rule out a possibility of that until we get closer to the time,” he said, according to the Sporting News

website.

Australia and India have regularly met in four-Test series but administrators in both countries want to expand on the growing rivalry. Roberts said the relationship between

Australian officials and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is “strong”.

“We won’t rule anything out in terms of the India series. Along with the BCCI and Indian players, we want to stage a series that inspires the cricket world, whether or not there are people in the stands,” he said. “We need to face into all possibilities. Fortunately, we have a little bit of time to work out scenarios.”

Roberts added that “creative solutions” may be needed as discussions continue behind the scenes about potential cuts to players’ pay.

Cricket Australia has already sent home most of its administrative staff on reduced pay, which Roberts said was necessary to stave off financial disaster in case of more disruption.

Kasparov, Anand and Kramnik to feature Manohar may continue for two in Fide online event extra months

Chess is the only sport witnessing uninterrupted action despite the Covid-19 pandemic. Even as chess enthusiasts are hooked online to watch the inaugural Magnus Carlsen invitational with the best players featuring in it, Fide - the game’s governing body - has announced its first-ever major online event.

Garry Kasparov , Viswanathan Anand and Vladimir Kramnik

Fide and chess.com will come together to host the Online Nations Cup, a team competition to be held from May 5 to 10. The event will see six teams – China, Europe, India, Russia, USA and a side representing the ‘Rest of the World’ - vying for top honours.

It is learnt that former world champions Vladimir Kramnik and Garry Kasparov will captain the Indian and European teams respectively.

The preliminary list has the likes of Viswanathan Anand, Alireza Firouzja in it. The composition of the teams will

be out on April 22. The tournament regulations have made it mandatory for every team to include at least one female player during the match. “All the top women players in the world have expressed their readiness to be part of the tournament,” Emil Sutovsky, Fide’s director general said. The prize money for the whole event is $180,000.

In the first stage of the competition, the six teams will be engaging in double round-robin clashes from May 5 to 9. Teams finishing in

the top-two will then play the final on May 10. “All games will be played in a rapid format. Each player begins the game with 25 minutes on their clock, plus 10 seconds of extra time added after each move,” Sutovsky said.

In their bid to ensure fair play, players will be observed by Fide-affiliated international arbiters via a video conference call. Fie is making sure that the participants don't receive any kind of external help. Their computer, webcam, computer screen and the

room in which they will be playing will be under supervision.

The entire event will be shown live across multiple outlets including Fide’s and chess.com's own channels across Twitch, YouTube, Mixer, Twitter and other international streaming platforms. “We will have a commentary by chess experts that will be conducted in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Russian, Mandarin, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, Turkish and Polish,” Sutovsky said.

Indian athletes preparing for the now-postponed Tokyo Olympics will remain in the country for the rest of the year. The nation’s sports authorities have agreed that those athletes who have either qualified for the Olympics or are yet to make the cut will not be allowed to train in a foreign land till December-end in view of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Keeping in mind the athletes’ health and safety,

the authorities decided that the athletes should be encouraged to train within the country as and when the nationwide lockdown is lifted by the government and situation becomes normal with the resumption of the national camps.

This was discussed during a meeting between the top brass of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and representatives of the national sports federations

(NSFs) through video conferencing. The meeting was also attended by Target Olympic Podium (TOP) scheme CEO, Cdr Rajesh Rajagopalan, on behalf of the Sports Authority of India (SAI).

The NSFs based their arguments for ‘no training abroad’ on these points: 1) Tokyo Olympics has been postponed for next year’s July-August; 2) Mostly all remaining Olympic qualifiers

in different disciplines have been rescheduled for January 2021start; 3) Most of the international federations (IFs) don’t have any competitions lined up till end of the year; 4) Most big-ticket events like World Cup or World Championships have been rescheduled for 2021 or 2022 and 5) both the domestic and international calendar is in a shutdown mode and such a situation is likely to continue till end of the year.

No foreign training trips for Indian athletes this year

International Cricket Council chairman Shashank Manohar, who is expected to step down in June, might get a couple of months’ extension as the ICC’s Board Meeting is set to be postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Shashank Manohar

In all likelihood, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chairman Colin Graves will replace the former BCCI president, who, it is learnt, has decided against seeking an extension for a third two-year term.

“This is for sure that Manohar is going but he will probably stay on for another two months as the annual Board Meeting in June looks highly unlikely at the moment considering the global situation,” an ICC Board member said.

“So it might be in August that ICC will have a new chairman,” he added. The BCCI, however, remains wary of the Vidarbha lawyer, who was seen as an adversary by some in the Indian Board.

“Till Manohar steps down officially, I will not like to believe (anything). Seeing is believing. He still has a term left. If he decides at the last moment that he wants to continue then it will be a different story,” a BCCI veteran said.

Hong Kong’s Imran Khawaja’s name was initially floated as Manohar’s possible successor, but it is understood that he doesn’t have the support of the full members.

ECB chairman Graves, who is supposed to step down from his country’s board in November 2020, has emerged as the favourite for the ICC top job.

Those in the know of ICC’s board room politics feel that Graves’ biggest advantage at this point is support from all the major Test-playing nations.

“England, New Zealand, Australia and West Indies will support Graves’ candidature. He also shares a great rapport with BCCI although the world’s richest cricket board has not openly supported any candidate,” the Board member said.

At ECB, Graves will be succeeded by former FA Chief Executive Ian Whatmore.