CONTENTS
February 2014
PROUD PRESIDENT ............................... 36 Dr Renu Khator is a stalwart in the US education system GIBC 2014 ................................................ 10 A report on the first Global Indian Business Conference PBD 2014 ................................................. 30 A report on the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas OIFC MaRkETPlaCE ............................. 26 A report
36
10
aSHa SING ............................................. 42 Crooning to new heights SaTYa NaDElla .................................... 44 The big Indian name in Silicon Valley TUlSI GaBBaRD .................................... 47 The day in the life of an Indian-origin Congresswoman
42
44
ADVERTISE WITH US India Empire will take your print advertisement to the following audience: ✓ A select audience of CEOs, Chairmen, Presidents and Managing Directors. ✓ A select audience of Overseas Indians, NRIs and PIOs all over the world. ✓ Political leaders in India and overseas including chief ministers and cabinet ministers. ✓ Entrepreneurs and Investors. ✓ Leading Bureaucrats in India. ✓ An audience willing to be part of social entrepreneurship and philanthropy. ✓ Diplomatic Missions in India and overseas. ✓ Libraries.
Please also join our low-cost emailer campaign (up to 1 million a month) and also take advantage of the PDF copy that will reach out to over 125,000 Overseas Indians each month and will guarantee that your money is well spent.
Call on +91.99998.27893, +91.98116.27971, +91.83779.83105, +91.96543.97960
47
Real estate PRomotion
Assotech Blith
Assotech Limited, one of the leading real estate developers of India celebrated 65th Republic Day at its prestigious 12 acres Group Housing Project - Assotech Blith, Sec-99, Gurgaon (NPR- Dwarka Expressway) site, to give a live update on Rising of Blit, to its esteemed customers. The weather was perfect for such an event with lot of sunshine and light breeze. More than 400 Blith Customers joined the celebrations along with their families in true spirit. The day began with Flag Hoisting followed by National Anthem. The whole area was resplendent with tri colour balloons and atmosphere was high on patriotism with patriotic songs filling the air. After a small presentation on the construction update started the most exciting part of the day – cultural programme, which was enjoyed by one and all. It was followed by sumptuous food, enjoyed by each and every person. The customers were happy to see the excellent quality and the progress work at site. The update on NPR, 150 Meters wide Dwarka Express Way was more than welcomed by all. During the program, Mr. Sanjeev Srivastva, MD Assotech Limited, explained that Assotech marked its presence in Haryana with this maiden FDI funded residential project, Assotech Blith, that was launched on 5th May 2012. The project is funded through private equity by Sun Area Property Partners. It is an epitome of unique architectural features that make intelligent use of natural resources to maximize natural light and ven6
india empire | february 2014
tilation. Lush and green with 70% open area to nestle abode of luxuries, this project has been structured after a detailed study of the solar path, wind speed and direction to ensure that optimal sunlight and fresh air always reach the project. To live a healthy, wealthy, happy and prosperous life Assotech Blith is also a vaastu compliant abode of bliss. Elaborating about the features of Assotech Blith and Dwarka Express Way, Mr Sanjeev Srivastva M.D. Assotech Limited said, “We are very glad to see the overwhelming response of Assotech Blith, the first project of Assotech group in millennium city. As a responsible real estate developer, it is our endeavor to enhance your life style with world class amenities. Assotech Blith will be an example of modern life style and the choicest destination for smart home seekers.” Assotech Blith is one of the few projects which are surrounded by 3 side roads, 150 meter wide expressway on Eastern side, 75 meter road on its Southern side and 24 meter road on Northern side, with the proximity to diplomatic enclave and NPR by dual entry points. The surrounding area of Dwarka Expressway is developing in planned way with all the major infrastructure and facilities in place like proposed metro connectivity, various schools, colleges, ISBT, commercials with retail and office spaces. On the other hand it is well connected to upcoming diplomatic enclave, international and domestic airport, and aero city in Delhi. ❐
inVestment sUmmit
2014
Global indian
business conference
The first edition of the Global Indian Business Conference (GIBC) was held on January 10, 2014, at Federation House, New Delhi. Organised as a one-day, follow-up investment summit to the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, the event was aimed at providing a platform to the global investment community to enable a dialogue with government and industry. With participation from senior officials from Government of India and eminent industry persons, GIBC had a strong focus on sectors that offer immense opportunities and contribute to the country’s overall objective of achieving socio-economic development. The sectors in focus during GIBC included infrastructure financing, urban infrastructure, tourism and hospitality, healthcare and medical value travel, and education. Each sectoral session was structured to provide the investor with perspectives from government in terms of policy and incentives, from industry in terms of the practical experience, and from an established financial entity in the sector.
8
india empire | february 2014
inVestment sUmmit
Inaugural SeSSIon
The Inaugural Panel L to R: Dr. A. Didar Singh, Dr. E. M. S. Natchiappan, Mr. Sidharth Birla and Mr. Inder Singh
The inaugural session panel consisted of Dr. E. M. S. Natchiappan, Minister of State for Commerce & Industry; Mr. Sidharth Birla, President, FICCI; Mr. Inder Singh, Chairman, GOPIO; and Dr. A. Didar Singh, Secretary General, FICCI, who opened proceedings with his remarks on GIBC and with his invitation to Mr. Birla to make the welcome address. Mr. Birla said that though the economy has been going through trying times and though there was an urgent need to get back to the 8% to 9% growth levels, positive sentiments have already started surfacing. Mr. Birla attributed this to efforts and policy initiatives taken by the government and the Reserve Bank of India. India, he mentioned, has historically been fair to business and has also been a profitable destination. The combination of democracy and demography gives India an edge over other countries. India has liberalized product markets and is now seriously looking the factors of production in order to generate real competition. He said it is important to rebuild mutual trust between the government and business houses, and infuse a positive environment for business expansion. Mr. Birla added that 10 india empire | february 2014
positive intentions of the government often get overshadowed by noise over substance and that was easy for the atmosphere to get sidetracked by media and civil society, and by activism. FICCI, he said, feels the urgent need for government, business and civil society to rebuild mutual trust. In this direction, he stressed upon good governance, which also includes clear and predictable policies, tax equity and effective implementation. Mr. Birla also spoke about FICCI’s Economic Agenda, which centers on job creation, enabling growth of enterprises, growth in manufacturing and development of worldclass infrastructure. Mr. Birla’s address was followed by a special address by Mr. Inder Singh. He spoke on the formation of the Global Organisation of Persons of Indian Origin (GOPIO) 25 years ago as a network for the global Indian community. Mr. Singh informed that there are 28 million people of Indian origin living abroad and, of these, 11 million still have an Indian passport. He said that the diaspora purchases Indian merchandize and services worth billions of dollars and provides a huge pool of remittances, estimated at $72 billion in 2013. Mr. Singh suggested that the Government of India
Dr E. M. S. Natchiappan Minister of State for Commerce and Industry
Mr Sidharth K. Birla Chairman, Xpro India Ltd and President, FICCI
should revisit some of the policies in order to make investments and trade simpler. The inaugural address was given by Dr. Natchiappan, who thanked people of Indian origin for having affinity for India. He said that Brand India created by Indian expatriate achievers would also be reflected in the quality of goods and services produced in India. “I specifically want to say that India is a very stable country though you would feel it otherwise looking at the headlines the newspaper and channels. Please do not believe the starved and appetite oriented media in India. India’s constitution is very strong and you should believe in it. All three pillars of the constitution are working very peacefully and properly,” Dr. Natchiappan said. The minister stressed that there are huge investment opportunities opening up in India, including the Indian
Mr Inder Singh Chairman GOPIO International
Dr A Didar Singh Secretary General FICCI
diaspora, in the National Investment and Manufacturing Zones (NIMZs) that are being created all across the country. The NIMZs are envisaged as integrated industrial townships with state-of-the-art infrastructure; land use on the basis of zoning; clean and energy efficient technology; necessary social infrastructure; and, skill development facilities. Further, industrial corridors are being created to develop a sound industrial base, served by world-class competitive infrastructure as a prerequisite for attracting investments into export-oriented industries and manufacturing. He said that new opportunities would open up with the roll out of the Food Security Act. The scheme for providing subsidized food will rejuvenate the agricultural and food processing sectors, and will provide immense opportunities for investment, he pointed out. ❐
Mr Sayantan Chakravarty of the India Empire Group introduces the panel for the Inaugural Session. Sitting from left are Dr A Didar Singh, Secretary General, FICCI, Dr E.M.S. Natchiappan, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, Mr Sidharth K. Birla, President, FICCI and Chairman, Xpro India Ltd. and Mr Inder Singh, Chairman, GOPIO International.
february 2014 | india empire
11
inVestment sUmmit
InfraStructure fInancIng
The Infrastructure Finance Panel L to R: Mr. Shailesh Pathak, Dr. Arbind Prasad, Mr. Dilip Ratha, Ms. Pratibha Jain, Mr. Vineet Agarwal and Dr. E. Sankara Rao
The inaugural session was followed by the session on infrastructure finance, which comprised Mr. Shailesh Pathak, President, Srei Infrastructure Finance Ltd.; Mr. Dilip Ratha, CEO, Global Knowledge Partnership on Migration and Development, World Bank; Mr. Vineet Agarwal, National Head-Financial Advisory Services, L&T Infrastructure Finance Ltd.; Dr. E. Sankara Rao, CEO, IIFCL Asset Management Company Ltd; and Ms. Pratibha Jain, Partner & Head, Nishith Desai Associates. The session commenced with a special address by Mr. Ratha and was moderated by Ms. Jain. Mr. Ratha said that the government is considering introduction of ‘diaspora bonds’ to facilitate greater inflow of funds in the infrastructure sector in a bid to attract investment from non-resident Indians. He said that such bonds can be adopted for financing education, healthcare, infrastructure, etc, and added that $20 billion to $30 billion can be raised in one year through diaspora bonds The increasing engagement of the diaspora with the home country can be seen in the strong surge in remittances, the return of many to live and work in India, and in their increasing participation in India’s development, Mr. Ratha observed, adding that at $70 billion remittances, in fact, account for more than India’s IT exports. He also spoke 12 india empire | february 2014
about future flow securitization for mitigating sovereign risks and on performanceindexed bonds for counter-cyclical borrowing. Mr. Pathak dwelt on the importance for the private sector to invest in city infrastructure and in offering civic facilities and on the importance of the government in creating infrastructure using municipal money in giving out existing services to the private sector. On pension funds financing infrastructure projects, he said Indian pension funds should be investing in the primary financing of Infrastructure and foreign pension funds should invest in the secondary financing of infrastructure as there is guaranteed return with the latter. Mr. Agarwal said several benefits have accrued with the introduction of the public-private partnership model in infrastructure financing as it has helped in better competitive commercials and also in better management resources. Mr. Agarwal added that such a model is more efficient and involves better utilisation of monetary resources. Dr. Rao said take-out financing is a method of providing finance for longer duration projects of about 15 years by banks sanctioning medium-term loans for five to seven years.
Mr. Dilip Ratha CEO, KNOMAD, Development Prospects Group, World Bank
Ms. Pratibha Jain Partner and Head of the Delhi Office of Nishith Desai Associates
Infrastructure projects in developing countries such as India are perceived as highly vulnerable to risks and that perception puts a constraint on financing. Some of the notable risks that need to be reckoned with are the risks arising during the period of construction leading to time and cost over-runs, operational risks, market risks, interest rate risks, foreign exchange risks, payment risks, regulatory risks and political risks. Good investment option in SEZ’s, airports, power, value added services Ms. Jain, while moderating the session, informed that India has a need for $1 trillion in the infrastructure sector and highlighted the absence of a vibrant market. She said that globally pension funds account for 40% of the infrastructure financing market, but in India it is as low as 6%. â??
Dr E. Sankara Rao Chief General Manager, India Infrastructure Finance Company Ltd.
Mr. Vineet Agarwal National Head-Financial Advisory Services of L&T Infrastructure Finance
Mr. Shailesh Pathak President, Srei Infrastructure Finance Ltd.
Dr Arbind Prasad DG, FICCI & Managing Director, Invest India
february 2014 | india empire 13
inVestment sUmmit
urBan InfraStructure
The Urban Infrastructure Panel L to R: Dr. Arbind Prasad, Mr. Navin M. Raheja, Mr. Amitabh Kant, Dr. Sudhir Krishna, Mr. Rajeev Talwar and Mr. Gaurav Karnik
The second session on urban infrastructure comprised a high-level panel of Dr. Sudhir Krishna, Secretary, Ministry of Urban Development; Mr. Amitabh Kant, CEO, Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor Development Corporation Ltd.; Mr. Rajeev Talwar, Group Executive Director, DLF Ltd.; Mr. Navin M. Raheja, CMD, Raheja Developers Ltd; and Mr. Gaurav Karnik, Partner-IIC, EY India, who also moderated the session. Delivering the special address, Dr. Krishna said that as per the mid-term appraisal during the 11th Five-Year Plan, the urban share in GDP was between 62% and 63% (2009– 2010) and this is expected to reach between 70% and 75% in 2030. Urban infrastructure, he said, covered a gamut of services such as drinking water, sanitation, sewerage systems, electricity and gas distribution, urban transport, primary health services and environmental regulation. He said that the government is also deliberating on ways and means to incentivize more investment funds into infrastructure. Regulatory kinks are being smoothened, financial sector issues are being sorted out and institutional mechanisms are being tweaked to nudge private sector to invest more in infrastructure. Dr. Krishna said that new financial instruments are being devised to finance investments in the urban infrastructure space. 14 india empire | february 2014
Serious efforts need to be made for unlocking land values to finance urban infrastructure as is being done by many countries. He said as long as the spatial distribution of project benefits can be internalized within a well-defined ‘benefit zone’, it is economically efficient to finance infrastructure projects by tapping the increments in land values resulting from them. Though land-based financing is not a practical or a desirable way to pay for the entire budget, he said that the mechanism has significant advantages if it is part of the mix of capital financing. Dr. Krishna added that public-private collaboration lies at the heart of land-based infrastructure finance. He informed that the Ministry of Urban Development has moved beyond the mere provision of infrastructure for meeting service-level benchmarks (SLBs), which have been set for water supply, sewerage, sanitation and urban transport. It indicates a change in mindset from mere provision of infrastructure to the higher realm of meeting service delivery benchmarks. The investment requirements have been worked out for the urban sector after incorporating SLBs. Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission–I (JNNURM-I) has been extended up to March 2014 from March 2012 to allow for the completion of its already-sanctioned projects.
Dr. Sudhir Krishna Secretary, Ministry of Urban Development, Government of India
Mr. Amitabh Kant CEO & MD, Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor Development Corporation
Mr. Rajiv Talwar Group Executive Director, DLF Ltd.
Mr. Navin M. Raheja Chairman & Managing Director, Raheja Developers Ltd.
Mr. Gaurav Karnik Partner-IIC, Ernst & Young LLP
Moreover, fresh projects can now be sanctioned until March 2014 under the transition phase of JNNURM, Dr. Krishna added. Mr. Kant pointed out that around the globe, cities account for about 3% of the earth’s landmass, but they are responsible for consumption of 75% of the earth’s resources and for two-thirds of the world’s green house emissions. Speaking about the challenges that India faces going ahead, he said that the prime one was that cities had to be built on the back of public transportation systems to make them sustainable. Innovation and sustainable growth strategies are required besides a sustainable public transport system. While the government can create the backbone for infrastructure development, it is the private sector that must come forward and invest in these projects. The second challenge was in the use of technology in urban infrastructure in a way that India is able to come up with smart cities, intelligent cities, and in this India has a great opportunity lying ahead. Cities, he said, are the key drivers of growth and the need is to know how to use technology to leapfrog the development of smart cities. The third challenge was to deal with and mitigate issues raised by unplanned urbanization as can be witnessed in cities such as Delhi and Mumbai. He said that the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) will create jobs and usher in the process of cluster developments. He said that containerized train systems will deliver goods produced in the northern parts of India to
ports on the western coast of India in 14 hours, from the present time frame of 14 days. He said that in DMIC, the process of geographical planning has been converged with technological planning. The government has also planned out the Chennai-Bengaluru corridor, the Kolkata-Ludhiana corridor and the Bengaluru-Mumbai corridor. Mr. Talwar said that there is a huge opportunity for Indian industry in urban infrastructure, mainly because the government is keen to play the role of facilitator in developing it. Largescale participation by the private sector is required for sustainable development and planning out of new cities. Integrated public transportation, processing and recycling of water and waste, and use of renewable energy are needed to develop smart cities catering to the needs of the population, he added. He also said that any company that invests in railways can become the largest power company in India and it can, by extension of its services, become also the largest telecom company in India. Mr. Raheja emphasized that besides developing urban infrastructure, it is necessary to develop regional infrastructure as well for inclusive and sustainable growth. He said that the youth today is looking for gainful employment. Though migration from rural to urban areas has been unprecedented and will rise in the years to come, still it is essential to focus on regional infrastructure as urbanization alone cannot fulfill the increasing demands of employment and facilities required by a burgeoning population. ❐ february 2014 | india empire 15
inVestment sUmmit
tourISM & HoSPItalItY
The Tourism & Hospitality Panel L to R: Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Tan Sri Dato’ Ajit Singh, Mr. Paras Shahdadpuri and Mr. Amit Prasad
The tourism and hospitality panel comprised Dr. Jyotsna Suri, Senior Vice President, FICCI and Chairperson & Managing Director, Bharat Hotels; Tan Sri Dato’ Ajit Singh, Member, Prime Minister’s Global Advisory Council of Overseas Indians and Member, Malaysia-India CEOs Forum; Mr. Amit Prasad, Chief Operating Officer, Go India Journeys; and Mr. Paras Shahdadpuri, President, Indian Business & Professional Council and Chairman, Nikai Group of Companies. The session was moderated by Tan Sri Dato’ Ajit Singh. Delivering the special address, Dr. Suri said that India with its mountains, beaches, adventure spots and heritage monuments has a tremendous scope and a high potential to grow. The tourism and hospitality sector has been declared a high-priority sector for the economy. The Government of India has allowed 100% FDI in all construction and development projects in the tourism sector, such as hotels and resorts. Several initiatives by the Indian government such as tax holidays and a dedicated hospitality board are in place. Major international hotel chains have a presence in India which is a promising sign. She quoted the World Travel and Tourism Council which has said that by the year 2019, India’s tourism sector is set to become the second-largest in the 16 india empire | february 2014
world and will be providing jobs to 4 million people, either directly or indirectly. Tan Sri Dato’ Ajit Singh said that tourism has the potential to be a $1 trillion industry. He said that India received 7 million tourists last year and, in comparison, Malaysia received 25 million. Clearly, India has a huge potential to grow further. Tourism is an industry which nobody can afford to really ignore, the Tan Sri maintained. Mr. Shahdadpuri said that the most important –ism according to him is ‘tourism’. It can give employment for every single dollar spent. In the tourism and hospitality sector, for every million spend, 78 people can be employed. India attracts only 7 million tourists in a year, which is low considering that India is a country with four seasons at any given point of time. He said India can harness this amazing endowment by taking various steps such as: ❉ ❉
❉
Generating increased hotel occupancy Should create a tourism promotion organization, which can be handled by a private operator By providing security to tourists on a priority basis
Mr. Prasad said that the tourism business is showing a lot of positive trends. There are big investment opportuni-
Dr. (Ms.) Jyotsna Suri Chairperson & Managing Director, Bharat Hotels and Senior VP, FICCI
Tan Sri Dato’ Ajit Singh Member, Prime Minister’s Global Advisory Council of Overseas Indians
Mr. Amit Prasad Chief Operating Officer, Go India Journeys
Mr. Paras Shahdadpuri Chairman, Nikai Group of Companies and President, IBPC
ties in India in this sector, he said, adding that the country is experiencing a change in segments in terms of tourists visiting. Traditionally, tourists came to India to visit temples, monuments and soak in India’s history, but now it has changed as tourists want cultural experiences and want to understand India and its society. He said India now have enough tourism options in sub-sectors such as cruise tourism, wildlife tourism, rural tourism, adventure tourism, etc. India provides huge opportunities for people to make investment such as B&B facilities, cultural parks, and rural villages. Mr. Prasad added that domestic tourism is also increasing in India at a rapid rate. ❐
february 2014 | india empire 17
inVestment sUmmit
HealtHcare & MeDIcal Value traVel
The Healthcare and Medical Value Travel Panel L to R: Dr. Arbind Prasad, Mr. C. K. Mishra, Dr. Jayesh Shah, Dr. Narottam Puri and Dr. Nandini Tandon
The healthcare and medical value travel session saw participation from Dr. Jayesh Shah, President, American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI); Mr. C. K. Mishra, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare; Dr. Narottam Puri, Advisor-Medical, Fortis Healthcare Ltd.; Dr. Nandini Tandon, Vice Chairperson of the Board and Trustee, El Camino Hospital; and Mr. Abhay Soi, CMD, Halcyon Finance and Capital Pvt. Ltd. The session was moderated by Dr. Narottam Puri. In his special address, Dr. Shah said that AAPI started 32 years ago in the United States after a few doctors came together to fight discrimination. Since then, it has become the largest ethnic organization representing over 100,000 physicians of Indian origin. Today, one in every seventh patient is seen by an Indian physician in the United States. Globally, about 25% of all doctors are Indian. India, he said, has all the ingredients of becoming a medical tourist hub. “As we develop the medical tourism industry, India should be able to brand its Indian-ness,” he said. Accessible, affordable and quality healthcare solutions are going to come from innovations developed in India with the help of the Indian diaspora all over the globe. India has 18 hospitals that have JCAHO-accredited facilities and added that around 400 Indian physicians have returned to India in the last one year to provide the necessary healthcare standards in India. Dr. Puri said that the majority of medical tourists to 18 india empire | february 2014
India come from SAARC countries, some from African and Middle East nations, and a smaller percentage from the rest of the world. Most of these patients come for procedures such as cardio, neuro, cancer, transplants, cosmetic surgeries, dental work, eye care, knee replacements and IVF surrogacy. According to Dr. Puri, the reasons for the success of medical tourism in India are as follows: ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉
❉ ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉
Low cost Availability of latest technology English speaking personnel Increasing compliance with international quality standards and accreditation Availability of translators Little or no waiting Visa-on-arrival scheme Availability of medical visa AYUSH, which is Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Sowa Rigpa and Homoeopathy
Providing the government perspective, Mr. Mishra said that even though the recent activities in India and around the globe have seen lots of private investment coming into some subsectors of healthcare, the primarily responsibility for healthcare in India still lies with the government. One of the major reasons for the success of the private sector in medical
Dr. Narottam Puri Advisor-FICCI Healthservices, Chairman-NABH & Advisor-Medical,Fortis Healthcare Ltd.
Mr. Abhay Soi CMD, Halcyon Finance and Capital Private Ltd.
Dr. Jayesh Shah President, American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI)
Mr. C. K. Mishra Additional Secretary, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
tourism is the government’s role as policy enunciator that has been able to create a system which is able to sustain such tourism. Speaking on the provision of healthcare service, Mr. Mishra said the government is not merely lowering the cost of medical treatment for the poor and far-flung people, not merely reducing out-of-pocket expenses, but is also providing free services, whether for treatment, diagnostics or drugs. One of the reasons for the government to do so is that while investments have come in to the tertiary healthcare sector, there has been no investment in the primary healthcare systems in the remote areas of the country. The PPP model is not yet robust in
Dr. Nandini Tandon Vice Chairperson of the Board and Trustee, El Camino Hospital, Silicon Valley, California, USA
the health sector and there has not been much success until now. The primary goal in this sector is universal health coverage, he said, adding that there are four issues that must be looked at closely in this sector: ❉ ❉ ❉ ❉
Access Affordability Sustainability Quality
Dr. Tandon said that there is a huge opportunity in the healthcare sector wherein India and the USA can come together and look at areas where both countries can combine their strengths and diminish their weaknesses. ❐
february 2014 | india empire 19
inVestment sUmmit
eDucatIon
The Education Panel L to R: Dr. Arbind Prasad, Mr. Inder Mohan Singh, Mr. Prabhat Jain, Dr. Renu Khator, Prof. C. Raj Kumar and Mr. Aditya Berlia
The final session of GIBC 2014 was on the education sector. The panelists included Dr. Renu Khator, Member, Prime Minister’s Global Advisory Council of Overseas Indians and President, University of Houston; Prof. C. Raj Kumar, Professor & Vice Chancellor, O. P. Jindal Global University; Mr. Prabhat Jain, Founder & CEO, Pathways World School; Mr. Aditya Berlia, Member Board of Management, Apeejay Stya & Svrán Group and Pro-Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University; and, Mr. Inder Mohan Singh, Partner, Amarchand Mangaldas. The special address was delivered by Dr. Renu Khator and the session was moderated by Mr. Prabhat Jain. In her address, Dr. Khator suggested that higher education should be seen as a pyramid with a strong base. She said that global partnerships are very much required to improve quality education in the country. This would entail providing access to overseas students in Indian colleges and universities, and allowing overseas educational institutions to set up campuses in India. At the same time, there is a need for direct investment in education by the diaspora as it has the talent, skills and sentimental attachment to India. Also, a culture of philanthropy must be allowed to flourish in the country to aid education in far-flung and remote areas. Dr. Khator outlined three recommendations of the PMGAC-OI that includes a need for a culture of research 20 india empire | february 2014
and innovation. She emphasized that thought should be given to using cutting-edge technology to engage the Indian diaspora in non-traditional ways, such as facilitating addresses by international faculty through video chat and other technological platforms. Even though the education revolution is already on India’s doorsteps, the technology that needs to back it up is disrupted and not often in place. She reiterated that the focus in India ought to be on accumulating world-class talent and providing access to quality education. Quality, she said, is important at every level. Mr. Jain mentioned that India’s education sector is on a fast growth track given that 50% of the population in India is below 25 years of age. He felt that the need of the hour is for education systems to penetrate the vast swathes of the country’s rural landscape. While this requires concerted effort from both the government and the private sector, Mr. Jain felt that at present it somehow does appear that there is a trust deficit on the part of the government when it comes to acknowledging the private sector’s growing role in this sector. He said that it is time to allay fears as several top business and medical schools are today in the private sector. Maintaining a positive note throughout his moderation of the session, Mr. Jain believed that the winds of change are truly blowing. Mr. Berlia said that information technology alone was not going to solve the problems of the sector. Instead, it
Dr. Renu Khator Member, Prime Minister’s Global Advisory Council of Overseas Indians & President, University of Houston
Mr. Prabhat Jain Founder & CEO, Pathways World School
Prof. C. Raj Kumar Professor & Vice Chancellor, O. P. Jindal Global University
Mr. Inder Mohan Singh Partner, Amarchand Mangaldas
Mr. Aditya Berlia Member Board of Management, Apeejay Stya & Svrán Group and Pro-Chancellor, Apeejay Stya University
was time to introduce highly innovative business practices by utilizing a limited number of training resources. The sector should work closely with institutions such as the National Skill Development Council and allied bodies that are willing to invest. He remained skeptical about great markets emerging in the next few years in the higher education sector, emphasizing that out-of-the-box thinking and innovation would be required before investment decisions are made. Prof. C. Raj Kumar said that the good news for India is that out of 1.2 billion people, 65% are below the age of 35, and that makes it a staggering 780 million. While the world ages, India remains young. He said while the education sector was booming, no Indian university is among the top 10 universities of the world, adding that India’s regulatory mechanisms are not progressive and that there is a need to establish more universities for higher education. One of the worrying signs, Prof. Raj Kumar said, is that young people
do not want to choose teaching as a profession and, therefore, there is a paucity of trained educational personnel. There are 700 universities and 40,000 colleges in India, but there is a huge shortage of faculty. The possibility of international engagement has been reduced due to limited issuance of visas to foreign scholars who would like to come and work in India. He felt that those who were looking for immediate returns should not be investing in the sector, but also added that the focus is shifting towards international collaborations. Mr. Inder Mohan Singh said that several initiatives are being taken in the education sector and there is no restriction in the private sector for investment for profit. The Government of India permits 100% FDI in the education sector under the automatic route. The challenges on the regulatory side are that it can only be run by a non-profit institution under the current act. FDI in the infrastructure space is permitted in the education sector on a profit basis. ❐ february 2014 | india empire 21
inVestment sUmmit
ValeDIctorY
Mr. Arun Maira delivering the valedictory address
The valedictory address was given by Mr. Arun Mair, Member, Planning Commission. Mr. Maira said that while
plenty of policies were in place, a trust deficit did exist between government and investors since the latter was skep-
tical about the implementation of those policies. He said that the Indian diaspora could partner through the India Backbone Implementation Network (IbIn) that was conceived under the 12th Five-Year Plan to bring organizational capabilities together to collaborate, coordinate and implement issues, projects and policies for the country’s development. The larger objective of the IbIn is to promote wider capabilities in the country to systematically convert confusion into coordination, contention into collaboration and intentions into implementation. This institutionalized backbone capability will provide tools and techniques to different stakeholders to ensure effective and efficient coordination, design and implementation. Despite the many projects and implementation challenges all over the country, such an organization will comprise a lean central node catalyzing many regional or local nodes to ensure an ecosystem that is widespread in its reach and far-reaching in its applicability. â??
DInner GIBC 2014 culminated over drinks and dinner in the Connaught Room and Rooftop at the Oberoi Hotel, New Delhi. The dinner was hosted by India Overseas Consultants Ltd. The evening was attended by several senior government officials, PSU chiefs, speakers and delegates. The next edition of GIBC is tentatively scheduled for January 5, 2015. Some snapshots of the dinner session:
Mr Kamal K Anand, Director, Indian Overseas Consultancy Pvt. Ltd. in conversation with one of the guests (left) and the Taiwanese delegation with Mr Atul Shunglu of FICCI
22 india empire | february 2014
Dr Didar Singh, Secretary General, FICCI, interacts with guests, including at right with Dr Renu Khator
Dr Arbind Prasad, Director General, FICCI and Managing Director, Invest India, welcomes Mr R.S. Butola, Chairman, Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (left) and Mr B.C. Tripathi, CMD, GAIL (India) Limited
Mr Sayantan Chakravarty in conversation with Dr Renu Khator, President, University of Houston (left) and H.E. Mr Chandradath Singh, High Commissioner, Trinidad and Tobago
Dr Nandini Tandon speaks with a guest and (on right) Invest India’s Mr Uday Munjal with Dr Prabhu Kulkarni from Northern Ireland and Mr Mridul Pathak from New York
february 2014 | india empire 23
ministRy of CiVil aViation featURe
JourneY THrouGH
PHoToGraPHs In January, Indian Vice President Mr Hamid Ansari inaugurated a photography exhibition called Mates and Moments, a creative journey through photographs taken over the years by Civil Aviation Secretary Mr Ashok Lavasa and his wife Ms Novel Lavasa. The venue was the Open Palm Court Gallery at the India Habitat Centre. The event marked the presence of several dignitaries including that of Union Civil Aviation Minister Mr Ajit Singh, Haryana Chief Minister Mr Bhupinder Singh Hooda, and Cabinet Secretary Mr Ajit Seth
This time their STAND and STARE collection offered images of MATES and MOMENTS. Apparently these seem unrelated as many things in the world would seem to the human eye. The inward eye, however, is able to discover the inherent harmony that pervades Creation. Novel and Ashok Lavasa are not professional photographers but they are two sensitive souls that are out to assimilate life. They do so by a passionate lifestyle that reflects in their work, social interaction and incessant travel when they interact with Nature. Mountains, waterfalls, the setting and rising Sun, trees, monuments and men form a part of their landscape. Nature and Wildlife The stripes of a zebra, the spots of a giraffe, and lions on a tree are as enchanting as the eyes of birds in bliss or flapping their wings in the sands of a desert. The balance in life that companionship brings is akin to the glory reflected in the light and shade created by the Sun when its rays land on an object that shines, at the same time diverting the journey of the rays and creating a contrast that completes the harmony of vision. The shimmering waters of the sea, the glittering peaks of mountains, trees bearing the burden of spring and trees bereft of leave represent the harmony of life. Mates in many moods, mountains in majestic isolation and Moments that live in memory—all these captured in moments of splendid irony and pleasing tranquillity. They say that “in these times of tension and turmoil, it is tolerance, togetherness and tenderness that will take us to the other end. Companionship is part of Nature, compassion brings beings closer and together they create indelible moments.” Berlin Wall The photograph of the Berlin Wall with graffiti on it dominates the gallery as a symbol of the theme of the exhibition with two countries that once stood divided by an ar24 india empire | february 2014
tificial barrier now stand united as Mates with one single Moment determining the destiny of millions. The Berlin Wall was erected in the dead of night. Just past midnight on the night of August 12-13, 1961, trucks with soldiers and construction workers strung barbed wire all across the border between east and West Berlin. For 28 years families, friends and lovers across the border were separated from their loved one. Its destruction which was nearly as instantaneous as its creation, was celebrated around the world. On the even of November 9, 1989, an official announcement was made by east German government, the Berlin Wall was inundated with people from both sides. Some began chipping at the Berlin Wall with hammers and chisels. These people were nicknamed “Mauerspechte” (wall woodpeckers). There was an impromptu huge celebration along the Berlin Wall, with people hugging, kissing, singing, cheering and crying. The Berlin Wall was eventually chipped away, into smaller pieces. East and West Germany reunified into a single German state on October 3, 1990. Little is left of the Wall at its original site, which was destroyed almost everywhere. Sections of the Wall as still standing and some parts covered in graffiti. The broken walls of a city that unite two countries mark that Mating Moment when barriers erected by history and impediments of ideology are dissolved. Hearts and homes divided by humans are united. VASA Museum Yet another photographs marks the recreation of those that perished in an accident in 1628 in Sweden when a ship named VASA sank. It was a fearsome war machine with 64 guns and 450 men of them 300 soldiers. It sank within minutes of its launch on 10th August 1628 but was salvaged after 333 years on 24th April 1961 and is now preserved in the VASA Museum in Stockholm. It is believed that about 30 men, women and children died in this catastrophe. The
The art exhibition being inaugurated by Dr Hamid Ansari, Vice President of India (top) and bottom (l – r) Mr Ajit Singh, Minister for Civil Aviation, Mr Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Chief Minister, Haryana and Mr Ajit Seth, Cabinet Secretary, visit the exhibit area accompanied by Mr Ashok Lavasa, Secretary, Civil Aviation and Ms Novel Lavasa
skeletons of at least 15 of these were found during excavations. Some were found outside the ship but have been dated by the radiocarbon method, and were most probably victims also. None of the victims were identified. In connection with research on these skeletons, each has been given a name in alphabetical order following the Swedish letter naming system – “Adam”, “Beata”, “Cesar”, etc. What can be said about “Adam” is that he was 35-40 years old, 165 cm tall and in good health, but that in his youth he had received a blow to the face. He was one of the first skeletons to be salvaged by divers in 1958. The individual F, “Fillip”, was probably a sailor who died at his post. He was 30 years old, 163 cm tall and had a set of teeth that gave him a special smile. “Ylva” was identified in the beginning as a boy, but was in fact a 16 years old girl in poor health. Her skeleton shows several injuries and she was stooped and undernourished. The unknown dead have been given a name and a new life. Compulsive Travellers The Lavasas are compulsive travelers, love music, river
rafting, trekking, racquet games and reading Novel worked for State Bank of India for 28 years, is now an entrepreneur growing exotic vegetables a in a poly house, organizes adventure camps for women and is also a CSR Consultant. Her husband Ashok is in the Indian Administrative Service and is currently posted as Secretary Aviation in Government of India. Both have a Masters degree from Delhi University in English Literature and also a Masters degree in Business Administration. They have two children, Avny and Abir. Avny is in the Indian Administrative Service, having earlier worked in the sports management industry and is married to Pranav. Abir is on the verge of finishing his MBA having earlier played cricket at the national level as a professional cricketer. While Novel has written occasional pieces on their travels, Ashok’s first book ‘An Uncivil Servant’ was published in 2006. They have participated in various exhibitions and have also had solo exhibitions in different cities. The last exhibition of their photographs INWARD EYE was held in 2010. ❐ february 2014 | india empire 25
oifC
a MarKet Place
WItH a DIference The 8th OIFC Market Place—a meeting platform for Overseas Indian community, Indian policy makers and businesses
Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs, Mr Vayalar Ravi, inaugurates the OIFC Marketplace at PBD 2014 in the presence of Mr Prem Narain, Secretary, MOIA and Chairman, OIFC. In the middle is Ms Sujata Sudarshan, CEO, OIFC
The 8th Market Place Forum organized by Overseas Indian Facilitation Centre (OIFC)—a public private partnership between the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs and Confederation of Indian Industry—concluded recently in New Delhi. Organised at the 12th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas which took place between January 7 and 9, 2014, the OIFC Market Place was inaugurated by Shri Vayalar Ravi, Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs, Government of India. The Market Place Forum is set to create unique opportunities to build relationships between OIFC’s State and Knowledge Partners and PBD delegates in a relaxed environment conducive for 26 india empire | february 2014
business discussions. These meetings have proven to be extremely beneficial for the delegates comprising of NRIs (Non Resident Indian) and PIOs (Person of Indian Origin) and have helped match buyers and suppliers. OIFC’s constant endeavour is to bridge the gap between the diaspora community and the country, thus helping them link back to their roots and the processes associated to make these linkages happen. Keeping in line with the theme of this year’s PBD, OIFC focused on engaging with the Diaspora and connecting across generations by way of networking for economic engagement. The three-day Forum had a footfall of 700 visitors. It consisted of:
oifC
At the inauguration of the 12th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas, the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh launched OIFC’s annual publication “Incredible Opportunities Back Home” that gives an insight on various aspects that would interest the NRI/ PIO population
A series of pre-scheduled appointments for B2B meetings with numerous networking opportunities to do business and exchange ideas for the PBD delegates and OIFC Partners. The participants included i. OIFC State Partners from the Governments of Bihar, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Kerala, Maharashtra, Punjab & Rajasthan. ii. OIFC Knowledge Partners like Axis bank, IL&FS Trust Company Limited, Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd, Life Insurance Corporation of India, UCO Bank, Yes Bank, Ezy Laws and Small Industries Development Bank of India Presentation by OIFC Knowledge Partners on Taxation, Market Entry, NRI Banking etc. providing valuable insights to the visiting diaspora. OIFC Talks Series were conducted to showcase interviews with thought leaders, eminent Overseas Indians, senior professionals etc around the world. These interviews help to guide and inspire the community to get involved in the network. Through these talks, these leaders spoke about their struggles, re-inventions, innovations and strides against all odds to be where they are 28 india empire | february 2014
today. Through these series of webisodes, OIFC explores how the Indian diaspora has empowered itself as an economically, socially, and intellectually well connected community both in its host country and globally. VIP visits: The Pavilion was visited by prominent NRIs such Dr. Renu Khator, Chancellor and President, University of Houston; Mr. Neville Roach, Chairman Advisory Board, Tata Consultancy Group; Dr Satya Vrat Sharma MBE, Chair, India UK forum & Vice Chair, BMA regional council W.Mids; Ms. Ela Gandhi, peace activist and granddaughter of Mahatma Gandhi; Mr. Yusuffali, Managing Director, EMKE LuLu Group of companies; Drs. Rajindre Tewari, Managing Director of Capital Investors Intl. & Managing Partner of Mahler Fund Management (Emerging Markets Investments). Visitors from Government included Shri Naveen Varma, Principal Secretary, Department of Industries, Government of Bihar; Shri Vinod Ajmera - Commissioner, Rajasthan Foundation and Managing Director, Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation Ltd; Shri P. Sudeep, Director and CEO, NORKA Roots, Kerala and Shri Salil Narang – General Manager, Investment Promotion Center and Additional General Manager HSIIDC, Haryana. ❐
ministRy of oVeRseas indian affaiRs featURe
PIO–NRI UNIVERSITY While addressing Indian Parliament in February 2007, the then President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, had announced that the Government was working on a proposal to establish a university for People of Indian Origin (PIO) in the country. The idea behind the university was to encourage a reverse brain drain, or brain gain, such that some of the brightest and talented overseas Indians return, work and contribute to India’s growth and developmental process. At the Regional Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Toronto in June 2011, it was announced by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA) that the Government of India was proposing to set up to 5 PIO universities in different cities to deepen India’s connectivity with its diaspora. These would be established under the Innovation Universities Act, once passed by Parliament. These universities could either be fully public funded or fully private funded. Since then, the Universities for Research and Innovation Bill, 2012 has been introduced in the Lok Sabha. As per its provisions every University for Research and Innovation shall, within fifteen years from the establishment and incorporation of such University under this Act, and thereafter at the expiration of every tenth year, constitute a committee of experts to evaluate and review the performance in achievement of the objects of such University and make recommendations on:
g) the connection established by such University between innovation spurred through the efforts of the University to its neighborhood and to society; h) the breadth of impact that education and research in such University have had on society. Further, Each University would offer exposure to an international classroom environment. However, a minimum of 50% students have to be Indian citizens. ✓
✓
✓
✓
a) the extent of fulfilment of the objects of the University for Research and Innovation as demonstrated by the state of teaching, learning and research and its contribution to society; b) the promotion of transformational and multi-disciplinary research requiring an integrated approach to complex problems of society; c) the advancement of fundamental research beyond the current frontiers of knowledge; d) the establishment of such University as amongst the global leaders in higher education and research; e) the impact and contribution of alumni of such University to institutions, industry or civil society; f) the extent of achievement of social equality through education and research in such University;
✓
✓
✓
Each University would focus on one area or problem of significance to India and build an ecosystem of research and teaching around different related disciplines and fields of study. Significant dividends in terms of Intellectual Property Right creations are expected due to focused and inter-disciplinary research in an area of study. These universities would have autonomy in matters of academics, faculty, personnel, finances, administration and in the development of a vision for the future. Each University would focus on one area or problem of significance to India and build an ecosystem of research and teaching around different related disciplines and fields of study. Significant dividends in terms of Intellectual Property Right creations are expected due to focused and inter-disciplinary research in an area of study. These universities would have autonomy in matters of academics, faculty, personnel, finances, administration and in the development of a vision for the future. Different modes of establishment of these universities are contemplated. They can be either fully public funded or fully private funded. The Bill also provides for public private partnership. The President of India would be the Visitor of the publicly funded Universities for Reseach and Innovation. The Chancellor would be appointed from amongst eminent academicians who shall be the nominal head of the University and preside over convocations and annual meetings of the Board of Governors (BoG). The Chancellor for Publicly funded Universities would be appointed by the Visitor while for private Universities, the Chancellor would be appointed by the Promoter. ❐ february 2014 | india empire 29
PBd 2014
MoTHer india is now
Miss india By Kul Bhushan The 'sweeping' changes in Indian political arena after the Delhi state elections a few weeks ago became the backdrop of the 12th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) conference in New Delhi. Whether it was the inaugural speech of Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, the keynote speeches by Indian cabinet ministers or the farewell address by President Mr Pranab Mukherjee, a common refrain of highlighting the government's achievements over the last decade, especially the last five years, was always present. Dr Manmohan Singh reassured NRIs by urging them not to despair about its future. To support his contention, he cited an annual economic growth rate of 7.9 per cent over the last nine years and predicted a five per cent growth for this year. He said that India was headed towards better times. This big picture can be justified in all fairness as the government believes that its successes get swept under the carpet with sensational news about scams and corruption. However, with the coming elections and the acceleration of political temperature with fiery speeches by BJP prime ministerial candidate Mr Narendra Modi and the breathtaking sweep of Delhi state elections by newcomer Mr Arvind Kejriwal of AAP (Aam Admi Party), with his symbol of a broom, has clearly put the government on high alert for the NRI support, if not for its 11,000 votes. NRIs have been so impressed by AAP that they have contributed significantly in cash and as volunteers for its success. Although BJP and AAP were not mentioned during any plenary sessions, the two parties were the major conversation topics between visiting delegates and Indians during the breaks. In the three-day conference, a couple of news items appeared in the Indian print media. On news clip was headlined: NRIs see Mahatma Gandhi's image in Mr Kejriwal. Another was headed: Everybody Praising AAP in Britain. A media highlight was Mr Narendra Modi's well-attended speech when he mocked Dr Manmohan Singh. In sharp satire, Modi commented, "I agree with the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Good days are ahead for India. I don't want to say anything more‌" Hinting at the coming general elections, he said "We should wait for four to six months." The jibe was all over the TV networks in no time and later in the print media. The first day of the conclave was devoted to its major theme of connecting NRI youth to India. The Ministry of 30 india empire | february 2014
Overseas Indian Affairs has been successfully running for some years a 'Know India Program' for youth to discover the land of their ancestors. Since India has largely a youthful population with over a quarter aged between 15 to 29 years, the NRI youth can easily connect with them based on common concerns and aspirations. This inter-action would result in greater understanding, cooperation, creating of wealth, livelihoods and prosperity, according to Mr. Vayalar Ravi, the Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs. Many youth leaders, both NRIs and Indians, addressed and participated in the different sessions and the major outcome was to the increase the scope of "Know India Program' and make youth interaction a regular feature of all future PBD meetings. Basically, the aim is to introduce NRI youth to India and enable it to get involved in Indian development projects. The chief guest at the PBD was Datuk Seri G. Palanivel, Federal Minister in Malaysia for Natural Resources and Environment, and president of the Malaysian Indian Congress. The final session during which the President confers the Pravasi awards is usually a routine affair when leading NRI community leaders, intellectuals and business leaders are honoured. This year's ceremony was different for two awardees. A huge cheer went up when Ela Gandhi, the grand-daughter of Mahatma Gandhi, was announced. This peace activist was given the award for enhancing India's image in South Africa. A former member of parliament in South Africa from 1994 to 2004, she was earlier placed under house arrest for five years during the country's freedom struggle. The other outstanding awardee was Ramakrishna Mission in Fiji for community service since 1937 with an active role in education. This PBD had a great deal of business interaction at the exhibition stalls, a great deal of cross border conversations during the breaks and a great deal Indian culture in the evenings. With the highest participation of 900 delegates after the initial 4,000 for the first such event, it all ended on a bright note. The basic message for NRIs from a young India is: No more Mother India, now she is Miss India. —Kul Bhushan worked as a newspaper Editor in Nairobi for over three decades and now lives in New Delhi atkb@kulbhushan.net
Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs, Mr Vayalar Ravi, inaugurates the Youth PBD in the presence of Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports (Independent Charge), Mr Jitendra Singh and Mr Prem Narain, Secretary, MOIA
EXCERPTS FROM MINISTER VAYALAR RAVI’S PBD SPEECH The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention will strengthen Diaspora’s engagement with India’s growth story. The Diaspora is keen to be partners in our growing economy. The Government is aware of these sentiments. Hence, it has been the constant endeavour of the government to sort-out various Diaspora related issues and introduce new schemes to ensure their active participation in our growth story. This was stated by Mr. Vayalar Ravi, Minster for Overseas Indian Affairs while addressing inaugural session of PBD on January 8, 2014. He said that several initiatives including the Overseas Citizen of India Scheme, voting rights for NRIs and the scholarship program for Diaspora youth have been introduced. Many more schemes such as the e-migrate project are on the anvil, the Minister added. The Youth PBD was celebrated on January 7, 2014 for the first time. The theme of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was “Engaging the Diaspora-Connecting across Generations and this itself emphasizes on the youth connectivity. The youth population in India is one of the largest in the world, and it is contributing immensely to the growth of our great country. The younger generation of the Diaspora also constitutes a large group and is beginning to
play important roles in their countries. It is essential that these new generations of Indians and pravasis bond together in the same way their parents and forefathers did. Many sessions were held yesterday focussed on youth. The interactions have certainly helped young people from India and the diaspora to have thoughtful insights into the economic, cultural and development horizons of their mother country. Hence, this edition of PBD will finds a unique place in the history of PBDs in India, according to Mr Ravi. The minister did not fail to mention that India is immensely proud of the achievements of Indian diaspora which has made a great contribution in shaping the image of India to the world at large. Addressing the concluding session of PBD 2014 and the conferment ceremony of Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards, the Minister said that the PBD is also a celebration of the home-coming of the global Indians. He exhorted the overseas Indian communities to be engaged in India’s great adventure of building and inclusive India free from hunger and exploitation. He asked the overseas Indians to reach out in new India not just financially but intellectually, socially and culturally.
february 2014 | india empire 31
PBd 2014
Prime Minister of India, Dr Manmohan Singh lights the lamp to inaugurate PBD 2014 in the presence of Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs, Mr Vayalar Ravi (right), the panelists at a session on Youth PBD (below), panelists at the state session (bottom left) and President of India, Mr Pranab Mukherjee delivers the valedictory address (bottom right)
32 india empire | february 2014
PRAVASI BHARATIYA SAMMAN AWARDS WINNERS The President of India Sh. Pranab Mukherjee has conferred Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Awards to thirteen NRIs, PIOs and Organisations for their outstanding and illustrious contribution in the country of their residence as well as to India in different spheres of their activity. The names of the awardees and their country are: Sr. No
Name
Country
Description
1
Ms Lisa Maria Singh
Australia
Public service and fostering friendly relations between India and Australia.
2
Mr. Kurian Varghese
Bahrain
Business for enhancing India’s image and for Promotion better understanding of India abroad.
3
Mr Vasdev Chanchlani
Canada
Community service and fostering ties between India and Canada and efforts in promotion Indian culture and heritage.
4
Ramakrishna Mission
Fiji
Community service and philanthropic activity and enhancing India’s prestige abroad.
5
Mr. Satnarainsing Rabin Baldewsingh
Netherlands
Public service and developing closer ties between India and South Africa.
6
Mr. Bikas Chandra Sanyal
France
Education and culture and enhancing India’s image.
7
Mr Sasindran Muthuvel
Papua New Guinea
In the field of Public service.
8
Mr. Shihabudeen Vava Kunju
Saudi Arabia
Community service and promoting ties between India and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
9
Ms. Ela Gandhi
South Africa
Public service, enhancing India’s image and promoting ties between India and South Africa.
10
Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil Parambath
United Arab
Health business and in promoting Better understanding of India United Arab Emirates.
11
Mr. Shailesh Lakhman Vara
United Kingdom
Public service and in promoting ties between India and the people of U.K.
12
Dr. Parthasarathy Chiramel Pillai
USA
Science and for fostering closer relations between India and USA.
13
Ms. Renu Khator
USA
Education and enhancing India’s prestige abroad.
february 2014 | india empire 33
ofBJP meet
BJP WooS nrIs Nearly 160 registered delegates of Indian origin attended the Overseas Friends of BJP Global Meet in New Delhi on January 7, 2014. The assembled delegates raised hands and vowed to make “Narendra Modi the next prime minister of India.” BJP President Rajnath Singh honoured Mr Mahendra Chaudhary, former Prime Minister of Fiji for “global fight for democracy”, Lord Raj Loomba, CBE from U.K. for his work on “welfare of widows” and Mr Y.P. Reddy, also from Fiji, for his work on “welfare of Girmitiyas.” A video film on the history and progress of BJP titled “BJP Ke Badhte Kadam” directed by OFBJP convenor Mr Vijay jolly was screened. A 10-point OFBJP agenda to connect NRIs and PIOs with family and friends in India was released by Mr Jolly along with OFBJP co-convenors Amit Thaker, Dr Rajni Sarin and Raj K Purohit. The assembled NRIs supported an OFBJP resolution to allow eligible NRIs to vote through postal ballots in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Mr Jolly stated. The OFBJP website www.ofbjpglobal.org was launched by Leader of the Party in Rajya Sabha, Mr Arun Jaitley. A collection of “Veer Ras” poems in a DVD format was released by senior BJP leader, Mr Venkaiyah Naidu. A photo exhibition on overseas connectivity of BJP leadership was exhibited. Senior BJP leaders Mr Jaswant Singh, Mr Jaitley, Mr Naidu and Dr Harsh Vardhan addressed the delegates. Mr L.K. Advani, Chairman, NDA delivered the valedictory address. Mr Rajnath Singh urged upon the Government of USA to have a relook at the Border Security Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Act of 2013 as the visa fees have increased as a result of which Indian IT engineers were facing problems
BJP President Rajnath Singh inaugurating the OFBJP Global meet at New Delhi flanked by Lord Raj Loomba (UK), Vijay Jolly (OFBJP Convenor), Mahendra Chaudhay (Ex PM Fiji) & Samnvayak Shanmuganathan
34 india empire | february 2014
Citation to Lord Raj Loomba CBE, United Kingdom presented by BJP President Rajnath Singh
Ex. Foreign Minister of India Jaswant Singh speaking on India's Foreign Policy at OFBJP Global meet
LOP Rajya Sabha Arun Jaitley delivering lecture on India's Economic Policy at OFBJP meet
Senior BJP Leader Venkaiyah Naidu speaking at OFBJP Global meet at New Delhi
Full House view at OFBJP Global meet on 6th Jan 2014 at New Delhi
february 2014 | india empire 35
CoVeR stoRy—inteRView of the month
Dr Renu Khator, President, University of Houston
“Deeply indebted to India for my foundation” Dr Renu Khator was conferred the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award at the last Pravasi Bharatiya Divas on January 9, 2014. She is the first Indian-born president not only of the 40,000 students-strong University of Houston (UH), but for any American University, and also the first woman university chancellor in Texas. Each year she manages to raise USD 100 million from the private sector for the university. She is the first India-born incoming chair of the American Council of Education that comprises chairpersons of all American universities. She attributes her phenomenal rise to her deep Indian values and family traditions in which she was brought up, and believes that the way forward for India is to get heavily involved in research and innovation that can attract and retain the best brains in the country. She is a member of the Prime Minister’s Global Advisory Council on Overseas Indians, a capacity in which she has made strong recommendations to improve and take India’s education sector to the next level, and to produce world class institutions. She attributes a large part of her success to being very goal-oriented and also to her Indian husband Dr Suresh Khator, an IIT-ian who is an associate dean at the same university (UH Cullen College of Engineering) and to whom she was married when she was only eighteen. According to her, behind her success is a very secure man, a reference to her supportive husband. Following the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas she spoke at the Global Indian Business Conference (see separate story). Here she speaks to India Empire magazine’s Editor and Publisher Sayantan Chakravarty during an extensive interview in New Delhi soon after the two events
You have been conferred the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award. Personally, what does it mean to you? Well I am touched, humbled and grateful. I have such deep love for my country. It is a recognition of the fact that I have been able to balance between my janmabhoomi and my karmabhoomi. I am proud of where I am today, of the opportunities that I received in America, what I have been able to do with those opportunities. While making the best of those opportunities, I have never even for a day forgotten where my foundations are, which is right here in India. The Samman has honestly moved me in ways that I did not think of. One of the contributions mentioned in the PBSA citation is that you have supported India’s causes and concerns in a tangible way, and you have built closers links between India and the USA and the overseas Indian community. Give us an example of this… Obviously, first of all, being a very public figure, you have to carry yourself always with pride and honour. There is never a forum where I speak, where I do not portray myself proudly as an Indian American. I am proud of this being 36 india empire | february 2014
one, and people know that I am from India. I am proud of being Indian. I give credit to where I am today to my principles and to my learning here. Also, while I was with the University of South Florida at Tampa before joining UH, I was instrumental in establishing the India Studies Centre. It stemmed from my belief that people need to know that India is more than just a land of snakes and snake charmers. It is a country of the future, a nation where technology is moving things forward, and making things possible. It is a hub of green power and innovation. It is a nation with imagination. Through the Indian Studies Centre, I was able to offer courses on India for better understanding of the country. At the University of Houston, I have already established a programme for bringing students to India every year. I had brought 30 UH graduates to India one year, and majority of them are today CEOs and successful people. I speak for India at almost every public platform. I am very proud of the Indian education system, and I said this at the FICCI lecture as well, that the test of a system is not what it does to you when you are there, but what it does to you when you are out of it. The fact that I was able to succeed in a totally foreign system with so many barriers is a tribute to my Indian education. I am proud of the culture back at home,
Above: President Khator officially assumes the duties of President of the University of Houston at investiture ceremonies in Cullen Performance Hall. From left, UH System Regent Jim Wise, Khator, UH System Regent Lynden Rose Below: Cordova Global Convocation at Purdue University
february 2014 | india empire 37
CoVeR stoRy—inteRView of the month
Dr Khator receives the Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award from President of India, Mr Pranab Mukherjee (centre) in the presence of Mr Vayalar Ravi, Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs (left) and Mr Prem Narain, Secretary, MOIA
back in my town, and grateful to my mother and grandmother. I can see in my day-to-day life as a CEO that when I approach a certain issue, shape policy, I am doing things exactly the way I saw my mother handling things, and my extended family. Three years ago, I wrote a piece in Hindi titled Meri Maa Ke Naam. It was published here in Sarita magazine. Then it was picked up and translated in English, then it was printed in India Abroad. It was subsequently picked up from there by mainstream American newspapers and published on Mother’s Day. That piece is about my relationship with my mother. I wrote it in Hindi. I try to keep my Hindi intact, a language in which I write fiction and poetry as well. The PBSA is given for eminence is one’s field or outstanding work that has enhanced India’s prestige in the country of residence. Kindly throw light on your tenure as President of UH, and the work that you’ve been able to do… I became president of University of Houston in 2008. Prior to that I was, for 22 years, at the University of South Florida where I started in a temporary position, before rising to become a senior VP. During the past six years at UH, the university has transformed into becoming one of the top 100 institutions in the USA. I was the first Indian born to become presient of any research university in America, male or female. Now, there are five other Indian presidents. When I was appointed, I had had nobody to follow. There were lots of eyes on me, and if anything were to go wrong, they were going to blame and where I came from, that too in a chal38 india empire | february 2014
lenging place like Texas. But I am a very goal-oriented person. I put my passion behind my goals. I just don’t negotiate on my goals. I try from every angle to reach my goal. And I’d like to think that’s how I have gone about things at UH in the last six years. I became the first India born president at Houston, but when I went to that city, there were already 150,000 Indians living there. They are doing tremendous work, and are very successful people. So we already had the foundation in terms of a community that is entrepreneurial. My going there was just one added element to this. There would be other aspects to that eminence as well… Yes. Right now, since January 1, 2014, I am the deputy chairperson of the Federal Reserve Bank in Dallas. Hardly any university president ends up doing that kind of work, and being deputy chairman brings with a lot of attention and focus. I have also been elected as the Incoming Chair of the American Council on Education, the national body of all educational universities in the USA. The board includes chairmen of different universities. This too will make me the first Indian born to be chairing this. I am the first woman chancellor in Texas, American or Indian. I am a board member of the Indo American Chamber of Commerce. If it has anything to do with the Indian cause, I try to give myself to the full extent possible. As a long-time member of the Indian Prime Minister’s Global Advisory Council on Overseas Indians,
Dr Khator addresses students
what kind of initiatives have you recommended to enhance and improve India’s engagement with overseas Indians? All members of the PM’s GAC bring in their own expertise. My expertise is in the education sector. I am always focused on education, and that has been my focus over the last five years at the GAC. This time I made a few recommendations. One of them is—and this is something I’ve been saying for some time—that we really need to bring in a culture of research and innovation in India. Even the best of institutions do not have that deep-seated, intuitive, culture of research, and innovation. When I say innovation, I mean that when you discover, for example, drugs, you take that and put it in the marketplace so that as a product it immediately starts to benefit and impact society. Such a culture attracts the best of talents and keeps such talent excited. Secondly, the private sector and the industrial sector need to come in and help the public sector to build universities with their charity, philanthropy and expertise. It would take a lot many years for the private universities to become world class universities, simply because the volumes they cater to are low, and, therefore, the impact on the general population is limited. But look at this way, if a major public university can be turned into a world class one, it would impact a very large number of people. The University of Houston is a public university, but each year I raise 100 million dollars from private industry. Each year it goes into strengthening the kind of faculty that I can bring in, the kind of support I can provide to students, the
President Khator poses with an infant during a Halloween game
kind of research programmes we can have, the laboratories we can build. Without that kind of support, I do not think the UH could have become a Tier I university. So once the private sector can come on board, the results are phenomenal, and that is how I strongly believe public institutions can become better. Thirdly, I feel that there are a lot of educators out in the USA who are sitting there with lots of emotional attachment, and professional expertise. Definitely there should be a way where India can use modern technology to build a creative environment whereby good people get tied back to India. You may not get them to leave their country of work, or to be permanently back here in India. May be some will come, some won’t. But there has to be a way in today’s globally connected world for them to become part of building India’s education sector. Does the UH have academic or research partnerfebruary 2014 | india empire 39
CoVeR stoRy—inteRView of the month
(L – R) Indian Ambassador to the USA, Dr S. Jaishankar, Dr Suresh Khator, Dr Renu Khator and Consul General of India at Houston, Mr P Harish
ships with Indian institutions? We have partnerships with many universities in India. Many of them are educational partnerships, many of them are research partnerships. But just because there isn’t a deep-seated culture of research here, and there isn’t so much of research money available to professors, those research partnerships have not materialized to the extent that there is a potential. But yes there are many research partnerships and many education partnerships where there are joint programmes, joint degree programmes, bringing students to America for their PhD so that they can come back to India as professors. We have partnerships with several IITs, with the Benaras Hindu University, with Delhi University, and many others. For instance, we do huge work with the DU’s mathematics department, we have a PhD programme. With many of the petroleum engineering institutes, we have joint programmes. You are UH System’s first woman chancellor, the University’s first foreign-born president and the first Indian immigrant to head a comprehensive research university in the U.S. It speaks something about the USA being a country of equal opportunities, doesn’t it? Yes. It does. It absolutely does. There is something about the environment there that allows you to be judged on your merit. If I could do all this, it speaks volumes. It 40 india empire | January 2014
doesn’t however mean that life is fair all the time. In no place is life fair all the time. So I always knew I am a woman, an international one, I have a different accent than anybody else. I have those three strikes against me, and I always knew that I’ve to work 10 per cent harder for each of those strikes. So, from the very beginning I had to work at 130 per cent to be noticed as 100 per cent. That has been my paradigm basically. So even if things happened to me where I felt that it wasn’t really fair, I never allowed any of those external things to really make me feel like a victim. I always felt that if you are going to hurt me, I am going to try thrice as hard to achieve my goals. Every time I’ve faced any barrier, or any setback in life, I’ve challenged myself to work even harder, rather than sit back and just cry over it. And that is what I keep telling the youth today, that I do not know one person you consider your role model—I don’t care who that person may be— that has reached there without any failures in life. They have been bankrupt, they have failed in their businesses before, they have failed in their elections before, and the reason they are there is not because they failed, but because each time they failed, they got up, learnt their lessons, and moved again. I say that is what you need to remember. Never be discouraged by failure, and never let any setback make you feel like a victim. Because then the whole victim mentality will give you negative energy. You have to think ❐ you will not allow yourself to be victimized.
Key honoURs
Indian-American Academicians Earn Glory Dr Meera Chandrasekhar
Dr Subra Suresh
Baylor University’s 2014 Robert Foster Cherry Award has gone to India-born Dr Meera Chandrasekhar. She’s a professor of physics and astronomy and a Curator’s Teaching Professor of Physics at the University of Missouri. Chandrasekhar earned her BSc degree in physics and mathematics from MGM College, Udupi in 1968. Chandrasekhar will receive the $250,000 award and an additional $25,000 for the physics department at the University of Missouri. She is expected to teach in residence at Baylor, a top Texas Christian University, during the spring 2015 semester. "Baylor University is very pleased to honour Dr. Chandrasekhar with Baylor's 2014 Robert Foster Cherry Award for Great Teaching," said Elizabeth Davis, executive vice president and provost at Baylor, announcing the award. "I am deeply honoured to learn that I will receive the 2014 Robert Foster Cherry Award, and I am humbled to join the illustrious group of teacher scholars who received the award before me," Chandrasekhar said. She earned her master's degrees in physics from the Indian Institute of Technology in Madras in 1970 and Brown University in 1973. She earned a PhD in physics from Brown University in 1976. After a postdoctoral fellowship at Max-Planck-Institut in Germany, she joined the University of Missouri faculty in 1978. Chandrasekhar's teaching and research has been recognized with many honours, including the 2006 President's Award for Outstanding Teaching from the University of Missouri. She was honoured in 2002 with the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the Indian Institute of Technology. She received an Alfred P. Sloan Fellowship in 1985 and was elected a Fellow of the American Physical Society in 1992. She also received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring from the National Science Foundation in 1998. ❐
Dr Subra Suresh, Chennai-born Indian-American president of Carnegie Mellon University, has been elected a foreign member of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), a rare and highly coveted distinction within the academic fraternity. The head of the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania based university, Suresh, 57, was chosen for his scientific contributions in materials science and engineering, including his work connecting nano-mechanical cell structure to disease states, according to the university. He was also honoured for his leadership in building the worldwide scientific and engineering research dialogue through the Global Research Council, which he helped to found while director of the US National Science Foundation. The council will have its annual meeting in May 2014 in Beijing. Suresh is one of nine foreign members elected in 2013 to CAS, a prestigious national advisory body for the Chinese government. They will be honoured at the 17th General Assembly of the CAS in June 2014 in Beijing. He is the only current US university president to have been named a foreign member of the CAS and a member of all three US National Academies - the Institute of Medicine, National Academy of Engineering and National Academy of Sciences Born in Chennai in 1956, Suresh earned his Bachelor of Technology degree from the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras. He then came to the US and earned his master's degree from Iowa State University, and his PhD from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology(MIT). He did his post-doctoral research at the University of California at Berkeley, specifically the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. President Barack Obama nominated Suresh to be director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) in June of 2010. He became Carnegie Mellon's ninth president on ❐ July 1 last year. february 2014 | india empire 41
enteRtainment
ASHA SING, SINGER
“I’d love to write a song for Priyanka chopra” It's her attitude of breaking out the stereotype and her style that made her stand out from other struggling singers in US. This young singer is gutsy, multi-faceted and constantly looking to reinvent herself. She sure is not the kind who rests on past glory, the reason behind her constant striving to make a name not only in the US but all across the world. She has not only dazzled her fans singing, but also enchanted them with her dancing skills. After releasing her first single that hit the top 10 Billboard Hot Singles Sales chart. In a candid interview with India Empire’s Assistant Editor Misha Singh, Asha talks about her struggles and accomplishments Tell us something about your background? I was born in NY and raised in South Florida. I’ve been singing, performing, and songwriting my entire life. I also play the violin, piano and dabble around with the guitar as well. You have been brought up in Miami, Florida. Do you still feel connected to India? I definitely feel connected to India. Miami and India are both similar in the sense that they are very diverse spaces. There are so many different cultures and people to embrace in both places. I have a lot of family that live near me as well, so a home cooked Indian meal is only a few minutes away if I’m ever missing it! What part of India are you from? Do you have frequent visits to India? My father is from Hyderabad and my mother is from Kerala. I have been to India several times for mission trips, to visit family, and most recently to perform as well. When did you realize that you wanted to be a singer? I have always known I wanted to pursue music and to sing. I honestly have never thought to pursue anything career-wise that didn’t include music. What are your plans for Bollywood? I’m currently working with a few different Bollywood producers to create tracks that will be pitched and possibly licensed for different movies. It’s scary singing in a different language because I grew up singing mainly in English but I love being challenged. Which Indian singer do you admire the most and wish to work with in the future? 42 india empire | february 2014
I’d love to write a song for Priyanka Chopra. I think my kind of songwriting would fit her style well. As far as singinggoes, I’d be interested to collaborate with Shweta Pandit. What kind of obstacles did you face in your singing career? My biggest obstacle was trying to figure out what kind of artist I wanted to be and how I was going to differentiate myself. I knew I wanted to sing pop music but the competition is so fierce. A few years ago I had a gig as a back-up dancer and singer for Shakira. We were performing WAKA WAKA with her but right before our number she came down on a flying carpet and did this belly dancing routine. It hit me right then and there that incorporating my culture was what was going to help me stand out in the American market. How do you feel about being a Indo-American singer who’s made it to the top #10 Billboard Hot Singles Sales chart? It’s truly humbling. My single “Mercy” has been a 3year project that I have piloted independently. So to see it culminate in such a grand fashion really lets me know that all my work is not for nothing. You are a singer and a dancer. What are the other things that you are passionate about? I love songwriting. Telling my story in a song is something I enjoy sharing with my listeners. I also really love food! I love cooking and trying new cuisines. What are the projects you are currently working on? Currently I am working on a few collaborations with different artists. I have a single I’m working on with Mickey Singh and hopefully a few other big names. ❐
Asha Sing
february 2014 | india empire 43
satya nadella
SOfTWARE’S
NEW GIANT It is a simple story of an ambitious and determined man. A story of an Indian boy from Hyderabad and his journey to the city of dreams—Washington. He is Satya Nadella, the new face of Microsoft
The gem of India—Satya Nadella was born in Hyderabad, the city famous for pearls and diamonds. His father, B. N Yugandhar was a member of the Planning Commission. Nadella completed his education from Hyderabad Public School in Begumpet and pursued his graduation in Electronics and Communication Engineering from Manipal University. In his days as a student in India at Manipal University, Satya Nadella was a persistent questioner. “When all other students would quietly listen to what I would teach, he always asked a lot of questions— ‘why does it have to be like this, why can’t we do it like this?’,” Harishchandra Hebbar, Digital Electronics faculty at Manipal University, was quoted to a magazine when asked about Nadella’s nature and interests as a student. It was his fiery urge to make it big in the world that drove Nadella to move to the United States. He pursued his masters in Computer Science from University of Wisconsin—Milwaukee and to widen the horizons of opportunities, he also got a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago. He knew it would be harder for him to work and make a mark in the foreign land but he was unwavering and there was nothing stopping him. "It's hard to find a single person who doesn't have a nice thing to say about him, which is rare when you are at the top echelons of a company," Ravi Venkatesan, former head of Microsoft's India operations told a news daily. Nadella started off his tech career with Sun Microsystems as a member of technology staff. He joined Microsoft in 1992 and quickly climbed the corporate ladder with leading roles in the Office and Bing search-en-
44 india empire | february 2014
gine teams. In Microsoft, Nadella worked as a senior vice president of Research and Development for the online services division and vice president of the Microsoft Business Division. He was then promoted to the president of Microsoft’s USD 19 billion Server and Tools Business in 2011. He brought revolution in the company's business and technology culture from client services to cloud infrastructure and services. Nadella has every now and then been credited for his brilliant work of bringing Microsoft's database and Windows server to its Azure cloud. It was under his leadership that the revenue from Cloud Services grew from USD 16.6 billion in 2011 to USD 20.3 billion in June 2013. He has proved his ability as a leader with the commercial cloud services division reporting 107 percent growth in revenue from a year ago. The unit currently is the backbone of Microsoft's cloud-computing platform. “Microsoft gravitated to Mr. Nadella, a 22-year Microsoft employee who is fluent in Microsoft’s rough-and-tumble culture and comes with the kind of strong technical skills that Mr. Gates was said to favor in a new leader,” the company’s board informed the media. Nadella never tried to change his basic beliefs, derived strengths from his ethnicity and always believed in who he is. These are the reasons why Nadella emerged as the board’s choice to be appointed as CEO and lead the company that has about 100,000 employees and likely to add another 32,000 through its acquirement of Nokia’s mobile phone business. The board of Microsoft Corporation has shown confidence in their decision. The board said to a newspaper that “Mr. Nadella would be able to quicken the pace of
new products and innovation better than someone from the outside who would be less familiar with the company’s fractious politics,” one of the people with knowledge of its deliberations said. “Microsoft does not have a great track record of embracing outsiders brought into executive jobs.” There were several high-profile names associated with the CEO position like Qualcomm’s Steve Mollenkopf, Ford’s Alan Mullaly, Nokia’s Stephen Elop, and Ericsson’s Hans Vestberg. However, it is reported that the search has reportedly been affected bymeddling from both Ballmer and Gates. It has been agreed to that an internal candidate such as Nadella would offer several advantages over an external one, as he would already be familiar with the company’s processes and has already worked in a number of different areas at Microsoft. Despite the monumental successes of his career, Satya Nadella has remained an essentially Indian man. He has combined the dynamic energy of his job with the calm, collected character required to manage the equally central responsibility of a husband and father. He is an inspiration for all the Indians. With his recent achievement, he has made it in the list of the Indians holding top executive level positions all across the world and making ❐ every Indian proud.
Satya Nadella
february 2014 | india empire 45
Key nRi aPPointment
Professor Rakesh Khurana
New Harvard College Dean Professor Rakesh Khurana has been appointed Dean of the prestigious Harvard College. His name gets added to a long list of Indian-origin academicians that have assumed leadership roles at renowned global universities. Khurana, 46, is currently the 'Marvin Bower' Professor of Leadership Development at Harvard Business School (HBS), professor of sociology in the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS), and co-master of Cabot House at Harvard. He succeeds Evelynn Hammonds, Professor of History of Science and of African and African American Studies at Harvard and will assume his new role on July 1. Harvard College is the school within Harvard University that grants undergraduate degrees. Khurana earned his Ph.D. through a joint programme between HBS and Harvard's Graduate School of Arts and Sciences in 1998. Harvard President Drew Faust described Khurana as a "faculty leader who embodies the interconnectedness" of Harvard. "His experiences as a graduate student, an award-winning teacher at HBS, and the master of an undergraduate House give him a unique perspective on the University, and his deep respect for the liberal-arts model and the residential education will serve him well as he guides Harvard College," Faust said in a statement issued yesterday. Following the announcement, Khurana said he is "honored" to have the opportunity to serve the College and work with the faculty, students, and staff to create a "transformative educational experience for our students. I am convinced that, working together, we will have a significant and positive impact on the College." Although Khurana did not attend the College himself, he said, "one of the benefits of being a House master is that you get some window into student experiences." FAS Dean Michael Smith, who announced the appointment in an email to the FAS community, praised Khurana as a scholar and teacher with deep experience working with undergraduates and a strong commitment to the College. He said Khurana is a "distinguished scholar of organizational behavior and leadership" and a dynamic House master who has also deeply engaged with undergraduate issues on important committees. "He brings to the deanship an intimate understanding of the Harvard College experience," Smith said. Harvard Business School's India-born Dean Nitin Nohria also welcomed Khurana's appointment saying his selection is a testament to his skill and vision as a teacher and scholar. 46 india empire | february 2014
Professor Rakesh Khurana
"I think the appointment is wonderful news, and I am looking forward to working with Rakesh to identify and strengthen efforts across the College and HBS that will benefit us all," Nohria added. Khurana earned his Bachelor's degree from Cornell University and began graduate studies at Harvard in 1993, earning his Ph.D.in 1998. He was appointed to the?HBS faculty in 2000 and became co-master of Cabot in 2010. He taught at the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology between 1998 and 2000. Prior to graduate?school, he worked as a founding member of Cambridge Technology Partners. Khurana's research uses a sociological perspective to focus on the processes by which elites and leaders are selected and developed. He has written extensively about the CEO labor market and business education. He has also been recognised for his commitment to pedagogy, twice earning the excellence in teaching awards and being nominated in 2013 for the Star Family Prize for Excellence in Advising. He has also co-authored "Handbook for Leadership Theory and Practice" (2010) and "The Handbook for Teaching Leadership" (2012), seminal texts on leadership theory and pedagogical practice. â??
PolitiCs
Working diary of Indian origin Congresswoman This piece highlights the typical working style of Ms Tulsi Gabbard, an Indian origin Member of US Congress from the state of Hawaii. A practicing Hindu, Gabbard frequently recites from the Bhagavad Gita. So when she took her oath in January as a newly-elected member, she did so by placing her hand on a copy of the Hindu scripture. It was the first of its kind in the history of the 223-year-old House of Representatives. Born in American Samoa to a Catholic father and a Hindu mother, Ms Gabbard moved to Hawaii with her family when she was two years old. Her parents gave all their five children Hindu names — Bhakti, Jai, Aryan, Tulsi and Vrindavan. Keen to visit India at an early date, Ms Gabbard has pledged to work for closer US-India relations Aloha, I hope you and your ‘ohana are well! I'm missing Hawai‘i’s warmth, especially now! Here's an email with a brief update and recap on my last visit home. This week, I introduced legislation in the House of Representatives to exempt Hawai‘i and Alaska from a significant airline security fee hike that passed Congress in the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013. The “Aviation Passenger Security Fee” was more than doubled from $2.50 to $5.60 for every one-way airplane trip. For Hawai‘i residents who rely on air travel as a lifeline, this fee hike is absolutely unacceptable. An increase in airline fees or taxes unfairly burdens travelers on our islands who depend on affordable air travel just to go to work, access healthcare, or visit family and friends. We have no other option than to fly interisland. By passing my bill, Congress would again recognize the unique travel needs of our state, as it has done several times in the past. Staying Connected to You Last week, I was fortunate to be working and meeting with people across the state of Hawai‘i. Mahalo to the nearly 150 residents who took the time to come out and talk story with me at my townhall meetings in Kāne‘ohe and Kona. Listening to your ideas and concerns, and learning how I can best serve you in Congress, are the most important duties of my job. On O‘ahu and Hawai‘i Island, I toured coffee farms and met with members of the Kona Coffee Farmers Association. We discussed efforts to combat the devastating Coffee Berry Borer pest that has attacked Hawai‘i crops and other challenges faced by local farmers and small business owners. When I returned to Washington this week, I voted for a FARM bill in the House that included my measure to authorize funding to help our farmers defend against invasive species. In Honolulu, I had the privilege of delivering the keynote speech to a Sisters in Arms meeting, which was followed by an emotional re-enlistment ceremony for a survivor of a violent sexual assault that was committed by a fellow soldier while on duty. She is now a strong advocate for preventing military sexual assault and provides support for fellow survivor-warriors. Her story is another reminder why we need to bring necessary changes to ensure our men and women in uniform get the justice they deserve. During my work week in Hawai‘i, I also: ● Paid my respects in memory of 1st Lt. Nainoa Hoe, who
Tulsi Gabbard
was killed in action in Iraq nine years ago, in a ceremony at Schofield Barracks, with his father Allen, and brother Nakoa; ● Visited with wounded warriors assigned to the Schofield Barracks Warrior Transition Battalion; ● Met with members of the Japanese Diet to reaffirm our strong U.S.-Japan partnership, and shared interests in the Pacific region; ● Toured the VA's Kona Community Based Outpatient Clinic, which serves West Hawai‘i Island veterans; ● Attended the opening day ceremony for the 63rd annual YMCA Youth in Government program; ● Honored Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at an annual event hosted by the Honolulu NAACP. I’m looking forward to my next opportunity to work in Hawai‘i and visit with residents on Lāna‘i, Kaua‘i, and in Hana during the week of February 17th. Please remember, my door is always open. I encourage you to share your ideas, questions and concerns with me and my team! Kung Hee Fat Choy! ❐ february 2014 | india empire 47
BUsiness eVent
48 india empire | february 2014
february 2014 | india empire 49
foReiGn inVestment
The Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Youth Affairs & Sports, Mr Jitendra Singh and the Minister for Health, Welfare and Sports of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Ms. Edith I. Schippers signing an MoU on cooperation in the field of sports, in New Delhi on January 30, 2014
duTcH MinisTer in india The Dutch Minister for Health, Welfare and Sport, Ms. Edith Schippers, visited India between January 29 and 31, 2014 to strengthen Indo-Dutch collaboration in the areas of sports, life sciences and health. She was accompanied by a delegation of Dutch public and private organizations in the field of sports infrastructure development, as well as a delegation of scientists from Erasmus Medical Centre Rotterdam. SPOrTS INFrASTrUCTUre On January 31, 2014, India and Netherlands signed an MoU on cooperation in the field of sports. The MoU was signed by Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports (Independent Charge) Jitendra Singh, and Ms Schippers. The MoU provides for exchange of knowledge and experience in the fields of Sports Management, competition infrastructure set-up, coaching, training systems, training of referees for various sports disciplines and top-sport development through youth academies. 50 india empire | february 2014
The MoU also provides for cooperation and exchange programmes in the field of innovative sports infrastructure development and management including financial development, spatial area development, planning of sports infrastructure and facilities, designing of sports infrastructure and facilities, exploitation of resources, management training and safety & security. In the MoU, two areas, that is feasibility study or Detailed Project Report on the area development and resource exploitation possibilities around one major stadium in Delhi, and feasibility study on the development and management of turnkey indoor sporting units to increase broad access to sporting facilities nationwide. It will also explore the possibility of opening a pilot unit that is included for immediate execution. SCIeNCe AND TeCHNOlOGY On January 30, 2014, Ms. Schippers and the Indian Minister for Science and Technology, Mr. Jaipal Reddy launched a large-scale, long-term study on thousands of people to de-
termine causes of stroke and cognitive decline. The Indian Department of Biotechnology (Ministry of Science and Technology) has committed over EUR 4 million to the project. Stroke mortality in India is 25 times that of malaria. Earlier research has shown that Indians may be more susceptible to stroke than their western counterparts. An Indian younger than 65 years is more likely to suffer a stroke than his European counterpart, data on the oldest old is lacking. Erasmus MC and the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) will jointly investigate this intriguing finding. Beginning in 2015, a group of 15 000 people aged 50 and above will be followed for 10 years to assess risk factors associated with stroke and Alzheimer’s disease. The findings will be compared with those of similar studies being carried out by Erasmus MC such as 'The Rotterdam study'. “With this study, we will get a clearer picture on which factors increase the chance of stroke. Does it have to do with genetic factors? Or are factors such as diet, hygiene and smoking or tobacco chewing more important? Answers to these questions will give us leads on how to prevent stroke and related disorders,” says Professor Gabriel P. Krestin, head of the Radiology Department of Erasmus MC. This visit of the Dutch Health Minister is a follow-up of her previous visit to India in May 2012, when she led a trade mission of companies and organizations in the field of life sciences & health and sports. CYClING Also on January 30, 2014, Ms Schippers took a cycling
tour around the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium where the Netherlands won the first edition of the Hero Hockey World League Final in the third week of January. The Minister promoted the Netherlands as a nation of bicycles and showcased cycling as a healthy and nature friendly mode of transport. “The Dutch love to cycle. It’s fun, healthy exercise, and nature-friendly. I am very happy to see that also in Delhi there are more and more cycling lanes. There is even a Dutch company that organizes cycling tours to explore Old Delhi.” Cycling became popular in the Netherlands in the 1880s, and by the 1890s the Dutch were already building dedicated paths for cyclists. By 1911, the Dutch owned more bicycles per capita than any other country in Europe. The popularity of cycling as it is now started in the 1970s when Dutch people took to the streets to protest against the high number of child deaths on the roads: in some cases over 500 children were killed in car accidents in the Netherlands in a single year. This protest came to be known as the "Stop the Child Murder"-movement. The success of this movement—along with other factors, such as the oil shortages of 1973-74—turned Dutch government policy around. The country began to restrict motor vehicles in its towns and cities and direct its focus on growth towards other forms of transport, with the bicycle being seen as critical in making Dutch streets safer, and its towns and cities more peoplefriendly and livable. ❐
Ms Schippers (centre) pedals away at the National Stadium. On the extreme left is the Dutch ambassador to India, Mr Alphonsus Stoelinga.
february 2014 | india empire 51
inVestment analysis
52 india empire | february 2014
february 2014 | india empire 53
ColUmn: yoGi ashwini
mind and Body
beinG a sadHaK By Yogi Ashwini YoGi AShwiNi
I
n a havan, we make an offering of samagri to agni deva, this samagri contains within it exotic ingredients like guggul and also common ingredients like rice and sugar, representing in totality the different aspects of creation. Just like the havan samagri, our body which is what we identify ourself to be since we are tied to the physical world, holds within it all the aspects of creation and they belong to no specific individual. They keep on changing and exist to aid the forces that run creation. Every moment in the life of a sadhak is a havan, an ahuti made to the devas in his every thought and action – be it the act of eating food, sexual gratification, travel and leisure or even sadhna… even a sadhna has to be sacrificed after a stage. All these aspects are aspects of the physical, that which is temporary and unreal, it does not exist. The moment a sadhak associates himself with a physical aspect and tries to hold on to it, it is called a dilution in yog. On the other hand, if the sadhak makes an offering to devas with every physical aspect, it paves way to evolution. The devs and the danavs all exist within a being. The aspect that one relates to or is able to access is indicative of his state of evolution or desire. Gayatri, the ultimate force of creation, too resides in this body and can be accessed by an individual. There are two aspects of Gayatri sadhna – Gayatri, which is internal (antarang) and Savitri, which is external (bahrang). Together, they represent completeness (poornata). The sadhna of Gayatri is the ultimate sadhna, it is done to achieve poornata or completeness. However to access this aspect, one also has to have the matching desire. A mismatch between desire and what one tries to access, results in a mess – within and outside. A gayatri sadhak
54 india empire | february 2014
stands the greatest risk to lose his/her path (become pathbhrasht) because the sadhna calls for purities of the highest order. It requires the sadhak to be centered on his sadhna every moment. The slightest waver of focus or even a momentary thought/desire for something else is enough to make one spiral down. These sadhnas are not a joke, all the shaktis exist and can be accessed through this body under the sanidhya of Guru. The reason why people falter is because they do not have a Guru. A guru is the one who gives you the experiences of the spiritual world. As one walks the path shown by his Guru, he intercepts many a flowers that are planted on the sides of the track. A shishya is one who keeps walking the path keeping his eyes fixed on the Guru. If he pauses even momentarily to pluck a flower or even admire its beauty, it is considered Guru-droh, a dilution. No matter how beautiful the flower is, how high its attraction is, it is still physical (sthool), unreal. Then the person will surely get the flower but in the process he will lose the path of Guru and Guru-droh or moving against your guru is considered a greater paap than brahm hatya. A clear indication of whether you are moving deeper into the science or into dilutions is your experience. The level of sadhna and your experiences go hand-in-hand. If your experiences are growing and your interactions with the energy-world are increasing, then no matter what you are doing in the physical, it means you ❐ are on the path.
—The writer Yogi Ashwini Ji is the head of Dhyan Foundation, Delhi. For details contact: ashwiniyogi@yahoo.co.in