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Hindu temple in Monroe, Georgia vandalized

VOL 20, No. 1039

August 15, 2014

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INDIA, U.S. AGREE TO CO-PRODUCE ARMS

Ayushman Khurana

Esha Deol

Vinod Khanna

Festival of India & Parade turns Global

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Laddi aspires to be Lawmaker in Illinois State Details on page 20

Sayeed calls for unity among Indian Americans Details on page 18 Pages 43-53

Mother files suit over Pravin Varughese death

CONTENTS Bollywood -------------------------- 38 Classifieds ------------------------- 59

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Community Post -------------- 14-24 Date Book -------------------------- 55

INDIA POST SURVEY

JOINT DEFENSE: US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel calls on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on August 8

This week’s question

Defense co-operation with US will benefit India? Last week’s result

Will India’s stand on WTO affect ties with US? YES 37%

NO 63%

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dian side will be the secretary, Department of Defense Production, and the United States will be represented by the under-secretary for acquisition, technology and licensing at the Pentagon. This decision was taken at the delegation-level talks between Defense Minister Arun Jaitley and US Secretary for Defense Chuck Hagel.

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August 15, 2014

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Publisher’s Diary

e all have our own crosses to bear; but, for India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the 2002 anti-Muslim riots in Gujarat are a burden that he may never be able to live down. One would think his overwhelming victory in the recent general elections in India should have served as his trial by fire. But unfortunately, not everyone seems to be taken in by the verdict of the Indian people, or for that matter, by the overt overtures of the United States to mend relations with India in general and Modi in particular. Interestingly, among the doubters of Modi's integrity to run a secular government that protects the minorities, are certain members of the European Parliament. At a recent session, a member of the European Parliament put forward a question to the European Commission regarding Modi's past record in keeping minorities safe in India. Citing recent reports in International media about Modi's role in the Gujarat riots and his "nationalist agenda", a member wanted to know if the EU was monitoring the situation in India regarding minority rights and the policy that the new Indian leadership intends to pursue on this matter. Stating that Modi's national policies regarding minorities could potentially threaten peace in South Asia, the said member wanted to know if the EU was pursuing a collective agreement between the South Asian countries to address such concerns. While that may be so, some of our own are no less intrepid in assuming authority to question and stand in judgment - like, this redoubtable group called Sikhs for Justice. SFJ is asking the US government to explain why it has lifted the ban on issuance of visa for Modi, a "known human rights violator" and is allowing him to come to the US in September. The SFJ wants the US to explain under which US law the visa ban was reversed. Over the past decade many Indian Americans had made it their life's mission to block Modi's entry to the US. They did succeed in the past, but this time around I hope they don't embarrass India, the Indian American community and themselves.

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HIGHLIGHTS Bollywood: Ranbir talks marriage Ranbir Kapoor is on his way to London to meet and discuss marriage matters with Katrina Kaif's mother.

Cover Story: Co-producing arms During the visit of US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, India and the United States agreed to co-produce arms

Community: Festival of India FIA organized Festival of India has come to symbolize unity, integrity, culture and best of the Indian community in Bay area

Visa restrictions India says any law that seeks to selectively apply visa restrictions on Indian IT businesses may impact bilateral ties.

Life style: Charity walk Stephen Hnilica, a serial entrepreneur is walking from Tampa to Seattle to raise $100,000 for Free the Children.

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Bandhavgarh National Park Bandhavgarh is known for the Royal Bengal Tigers, cheetals, leopard, gaur, sambhar, and many more faunal species

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India, US agree to co-produce arms India Post News Service

NEW DELHI: During the visit of US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel here last week, India and the United States agreed to take the Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) forward by appointing nodal officers to co-develop and co-produce defense hardware. According to India's defense ministry, the contact person from the Indian side will be the secretary, Department of Defense Production, and the United States will be represented by the under-secretary for acquisition, technology and licensing at the Pentagon. This decision was taken at the delegation-level talks between Defense Minister Arun Jaitley and US Secretary for Defense Chuck Hagel. Both the sides reaffirmed their desire to further enhance bilateral defense cooperation, especially in technology, and discussed ways for strengthening this partnership, the Ministry of Defense (MoD) said.

Defense Minister Arun Jaitley and US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel during delegation level talks at South Block in New Delhi on August 8

The two countries could work on co-developing versions of the Javelin anti-tank guided missile through transfer of technology from the US to India but the de-

fense hardware to be co-developed would be decided jointly by the two countries. The US Defense Secretary met Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Don't see China as a rival, says Hagel NEW DELHI: The US has said India does not need to choose between its ties with Washington and China and should avoid seeing Beijing as a rival. Addressing a gathering here, US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel suggested that India and America should expand their defense ties and include Japan in their security cooperation partnership. "Just like the US need not choose between its Asian alliances and its constructive relationship with China, similarly India need not choose between its closer relationship with America and improved ties with China. "In our relations with Beijing, both Delhi and Washington, should see a healthy competition and we should avoid the traps of rivalry," he said at an Observer Research Foundation function here. Hagel said the US wants to work for a peaceful global order in which "China was also a trustee" and both India and America should continue to work with it in the future. Referring to the disputed South China Sea, he said both India and the US favor a peaceful resolution of disputes and are for

the freedom of navigation in the seas. The US Defense Secretary said Indian and American security interests converge as "India continues to look east and the US pursues strategic re-balance. These things headline the convergence of interests of our two nations."

Stating that the fundamentals of the USIndia partnership are strong, he said: "The question is whether India and the US can achieve the enormous potential of our partnership He said as the security considerations of India and the US converge, "the two countries should also converge their partnerships. India and the US should consider expanding their trilateral security cooperation with Japan. We should have trilateral defense co-

operation at the ministerial level." Hagel said the three countries recently participated in the trilateral Malabar series exercise off the coast of Japan in the Pacific. He said the US would also help to facilitate India's rise as a global power. "We are working to expand the role of G20 and call for India to be a permanent member of the reformed UN Security Council," Hagel said. Hagel said "America's future is tied to its sustained global engagement, and a stronger strategic partnership with India is an integral part of that future". Stating that the fundamentals of the US-India partnership are strong, he said: "The question is whether India and the US can achieve the enormous potential of our partnership...whether we can transform our potential into results." The American Defense Secretary said the US is committed to exercising its leadership to support India's rise as a global power. "The US strongly supports India's growing global influence and military capability, including its potential as a security provider from the Indian Ocean to the greater Pacific," he said. -PTI

and briefed him about the steps Obama administration plans to take to deal with the situation in war-torn Iraq. In the meeting, Modi welcomed the "sustained high-level engagement" by the US with the new Indian government. According to a statement issued by the PMO, Modi expressed concern about the deteriorating situation in Iraq and its potential implications for the region where India has vital stakes. "Secretary Hagel briefed the PM on announcements by President Obama on the steps that the US plans to take to deal with the situation," said the statement. The situation in Afghanistan also came up for discussion during Mr Hagel's meeting with Mr Modi. The Prime Minister noted that an early completion of the

election process in Afghanistan, which enjoys the confidence of the people there, and smooth transition of power is essential for sustaining progress towards peace, stability, democracy and development in the strife-torn country. They also discussed their shared interest in peace and stability in the wider Asia-Pacific region. PM Modi told Secretary Hagel that India would like to work with US defense majors on a joint development and co-production model as part of Delhi's efforts to achieve self-reliance and reduce arms import. Hagel was told that the Modi government would like to boost defense partnership beyond a buyer-seller relationship, according to official sources.

'Teaseller's son can head country only in India, US' NEW DELHI: Seeking to draw parallels between India and the US, American Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said there are few places in the world other than the two democratic countries where a teaseller's son can become the Prime Minister or a Kenyan's child can become the President. "There are few places in the world other than India and the US where the son of a tea-seller in a small-time town can rise to be the Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) or the child of a Kenyan father can rise to

be the President (Barack Obama)," he said while talking about the opportunities available in the two countries. The American Defense Secretary was speaking at the Silver Jubilee function of the Observer's Research Foundation (ORF). Before joining politics and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Modi used to sell tea in trains and help his father run a small tea stall in a town in Gujarat. Obama's father was of Kenyan origin and his mother an American citizen. -PTI

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ASEAN to boost cooperation with India in various fields NAY PYI TAW (Myanmar): The ASEAN, considered one of the world's fastest growing regions, has resolved to significantly enhance cooperation with India in combating growing challenges of maritime security, terrorism, drug trafficking and cyber crime besides expanding trade ties. The 10-nation grouping particularly emphasized on close engagement with India to deal with issues relating to maritime security, freedom of navigation and maritime security in the seas of the region. The comments by ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) came on a day when the dispute relating to China's territorial claims over the South China Sea was dominating the meeting of foreign ministers of the powerful bloc here. "We agreed to further promote maritime cooperation to address common challenges on maritime

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj at ASEAN-India meeting in Nay Pyi Taw on August 9

issues," the ASEAN said in a statement. Addressing the 12th IndiaASEAN meeting here, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj

said India supported freedom of navigation and access to resources in the South China Sea in accordance with principles of international law, including the 1982

ASEAN leaders 'quite excited' about new Modi govt NAY PYI TAW: Describing her four-day Myanmar visit as "very successful", External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said she forcefully articulated India's position in meetings of ASEAN, ARF and East Asia Summit besides having bilateral engagements with her counterparts from 11 countries. Wrapping up her visit, Swaraj said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision has significantly increased India's stature among foreign governments in the last two-and-half months as they felt the new government can deliver on its promises and boost trade and investment. "It was a very hectic visit. I myself feel that the visit was very successful," she said. Swaraj, who attended the ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting, ASEAN Regional Forum Meeting and East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers' Meeting - her first multilateral engagement as External Affairs Minister -said the leaders she met were quite excited about the new government in India and some of them were of the view that it will function without any "pressure or blackmail" as it came with a clear majority. "Everybody was impressed by Modiji's vision. They feel that investment opportunities have increased in India as the government has an ambitious agenda and

resources in the resource-rich area and said the dispute must be resolved as per international law. Swaraj said she had bilateral meetings with foreign ministers of 11 countries including Japan, Australia, South Korea, Indonesia and Thailand. In her meetings with President of Myanmar U Thein Sein and Foreign Minister U Wunna Maung, Swaraj raised India's serious concern over certain militant outfits of north eastern region having bases inside its territory and asked the country to take action against them. "I raised the issue of Indian insurgent External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj meets Julie groups and told Bishop, Foreign Minister of Australia on the sidelines of 47th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting in Nay Pyi Taw, them that Myanmar on August 9 though the political leadership is The ASEAN, ARF and EAS again and again saying that their meetings were dominated by fresh territory will not be used for terstandoff in the South China Sea rorist activities, but on the where India strongly favored free- ground, the situation is different," dom of navigation and access to she told reporters. -PTI they wanted to be part of it," she told reporters before leaving for New Delhi. Swaraj said in the multilateral meetings, she favored resolving all the disputes peacefully.

UN Convention on the Law of the Stressing on the need for betSea. ter connectivity, ASEAN said the State-run ONGC Videsh Lim- Master Plan for ASEAN Connecited has operation in number of tivity (MPAC) should be impleoil blocks in South China Sea mented as it will enhance regional which were offered to it by Viet- integration and better linkages nam. China has been objecting to between members of the bloc and India's oil exploration projects in India. the disputed waters. The MPAC envisaged conThe ASEAN said there should struction of a number of highways be greater cooperation between and developing waterways for the member countries of the greater connectivity. grouping and India in combating "We looked forward to the extransnational and non-traditional peditious conclusion of the existsecurity challenges and specifi- ing ASEAN India transport initiacally sought better coordination tives including the ASEAN India to deal with combating terrorism, Air Transport Agreement and the illicit drug trafficking, human traf- India Myanmar Thailand Trilateral ficking and cyber crime. Highway Project and its extension Seeking better ties with India, the grouping said it was looking for- Seeking better ties with ward to signing of the India, the grouping said it ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement in ser- was looking forward to vices and investment at the forthcoming meet- signing of the ASEAN-India ing of Economic and Free Trade Agreement in Trade Ministers here later this month. services and investment at India and the ASEAN have already the forthcoming meeting implemented a free trade agreement in goods and are set to widen its base and to Lao PDR and Cambodia, and include services and investments. the development of the new highThe India-ASEAN Trade in way also linking Vietnam, which Goods Agreement was signed in will enhance connectivity beAugust 2009 and it came into tween and beyond both sides and force on January 1, 2010. strengthen trade and investment," The ASEAN noted that its two it said. way trade with India grew by 5.3 "We recognized that ASEAN per cent in the past years and and India are moving forward in called for further encouragement enhancing cooperation in the field and promotion of business to of science and technology by utibusiness contact to achieve lizing the ASEAN India Science greater trade and investment. and Technology Development The grouping also reiterated Fund," it added. the need to strengthen ASEAN"We noted the progress of India cooperation in agriculture work under the ASEAN-India Plan and energy in order to ensure long of Action to implement the term food security and energy ASEAN India Partnership for security, especially with the use Peace, Progress and Shared Prosof appropriate technologies. perity (2010-2015)," it said.-PTI

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Belligerent China under attack in ASEAN meetings NAY PYI TAW: The fresh standoff in the South China Sea (SCS) dominated proceedings at the ASEAN and East Asia Summit where India strongly favored freedom of navigation and access to resources in the resource-rich area saying the dispute must be resolved as per international law. A belligerent China which was under attack in both meetings remained unperturbed and insisted it will resolve the issues relating to the disputed area bilaterally with concerned nations including Vietnam, the Philippines and Brunei. In the ASEAN Regional Forum Meeting, the US put forth a proposal to stop any activities in the South China Sea that may escalate tensions further but none of the stakeholders supported it. In the meeting, China rejected demand for resolution of the issue at a multilateral fora and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told reporters that China will continue to exercise restraint but at the same time will respond to provocations "unequivocally and resolutely".

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj during a delegation level meeting with Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi, on the sidelines of 47th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar on August 9

through negotiations. In her address at the 4th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers' Meeting, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said maritime territorial disputes have the potential for undermining compre-

In her address at the 21st ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Meeting, Swaraj said the recent developments in the South China Sea underscore the need to resolve sovereignty issues peacefully by the countries concerned in accordance with international law In the ARF meeting, US Secretary of State John Kerry asked the stakeholders to take lessons from resolution of water-related issues between India and Bangladesh and called for settling the dispute

hensive security and mutual confidence. "India opposes the use or threat of use of force and supports freedom of navigation and access to resources in accordance

with principles of international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. "We hope that progress will be made with respect to implementation of Guidelines to the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and the adoption of a Code of Conduct on the basis of consensus," she said. Fresh standoff started recently when China deployed a deep sea oil rig into waters close to the Paracel Islands, which Vietnam says belong to it. India's ONGC Videsh (OVL) has operations in oil blocks in hydrocarbon-rich South China Sea. China has been objecting to India's oil exploration projects in the disputed waters. Brunei, the Philippines and Vietnam have been making territorial claims over parts of South

Myanmar invites Modi for bilateral visit NAY PYI TAW: Myanmar has invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to undertake a bilateral visit when he comes here to attend the East Asia Summit on November 13. Wrapping up her four-day trip, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said as Modi will come here to attend the multilateral meeting, Myanmarese leaders have extended an invitation to him for a bilateral visit. After a meeting with her Myanmarese counterpart U Wunna Maung Lwin, she said Myanmar was quite excited about the new government in India and requested for a bilateral visit by Modi. "Myanmar has invited the Prime Minister for a bilateral visit," she said.-PTI

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj shakes hands with Myanmarese President U Thein Sein at a meeting in Nay Pyi Taw, on August 11

China Sea which was rejected by China.

China's growing activities in the disputed waters have escalated the tensions. ASEAN urged all parties concerned to exercise self-restraint and avoid actions which would complicate the situation and undermine peace, stability, and security in the South China Sea. In her address at the 21st ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Meeting, Swaraj said the recent developments in the South China Sea underscore the need to resolve sovereignty issues peacefully by the countries concerned in accordance with international law. The ASEAN in its statement said, "We remained seriously concerned over recent developments which had increased tensions in the South China Sea and reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace, stability, maritime security as well as freedom of navigation in and over-flight above the South China Sea".-PTI

India, US agree to co-produce arms Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 5

In a separate meeting, Defense Minister Arun Jaitley, who will visit the Pentagon in the US in October this year, told the visiting American dignitary about India's growing indigenous capabilities in the defense sector and the move to raise the FDI cap in the defense sector to 49 per cent. The MoD pointed out that "the

"The prime minister underlined the importance of defense relations in the overall strategic partnership between the two countries and indicated his desire to see progress in defense relations, including in defense manufacturing in India, technology transfer in defense, exercises and higher studies in The Prime Minister told Mr the field of defense," a press release issued by Hagel that he looked PMO said. forward to his summit with The Prime Minister President Barack Obama to told Mr Hagel that he looked forward to his discuss how India and the summit with President US could build a Barack Obama to discuss how India and the partnership for peace US could build a partnership for peace, stability and two sides also decided to take prosperity in the world. steps for the extension of the New Hagel who met Finance Minis- Framework for the United States ter Arun Jaitley, External Affairs India Defense Relationship, well Minister Sushma Swaraj and NSA before it expires in July 2015." Ajit Doval, discussed India's purMr Hagel also laid a wreath at chase of 22 Apache attack heli- the Amar Jawan Jyoti and was precopters, 15 Chinook heavy-lift sented an inter-services guard of choppers and four P-81 anti-sub- honor in the forecourt of South marine aircraft. Block. The Apache helicopters would "Mr Hagel invited Mr Jaitley be armed with Hellfire and Stinger to visit the Pentagon... in October missiles. There was also reported during the latter's visit to Washdiscussion about a US offer to ington DC to attend the annual jointly develop and produce the meetings of the IMF and the next generation of the Javelin mis- World Bank. Mr Jaitley has acsile in India for the Indian market cepted the invitation," the MoD as well as for export. said.

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Modi slams Pakistan for proxy war against India LEH: Prime Minister Narendra Modi slammed Pakistan for continuing its proxy war of terrorism against India, saying it has lost the strength to fight a conventional war. "The neighboring country has lost the strength to fight a conventional war, but continues to engage in the proxy war of terrorism," he said while addressing troops of Army and the Indian Air Force on his maiden trip to Leh and Ladakh. The Prime Minister said the Indian armed forces were suffering more casualties from terrorism than from war. Noting that this is a global problem, the Prime Minister said all humanitarian forces of the world should unite to fight it. "India is committed to strengthening and uniting these humanitarian forces," he said. The Prime Minister's comments came close on the heels of militants attacking a BSF convoy at Pampore in South Kashmir's Pulwama district, leaving eight personnel including an officer injured. Modi, who is on a second trip to Jammu and Kashmir in two months, said India was committed to strong armed forces, wellequipped with modern arms and technology. The jawans should be assured that the entire country supports them, he stressed. The Prime Minister said soldiers remain undeterred in spite of the many negatives and struggles that their families face in day-to-day life and this energy and sense of duty inspires him and, therefore, he keeps visiting jawans on the border to seek inspiration. Modi promised the troops that a National War Memorial would be built that would inspire future generations of India. He also told the defense personnel that the government is

committed to making India selfreliant in defense manufacturing. Citing the Kargil infiltration, about which the first information

was given by a shepherd named Tashi Namgyal, he said the country's armed forces deployed in border areas are well-con-

Prime Minister Narendra Modi waves at army soldiers in Leh on August 12

"We have kept Ladakh at the centre of our solar energy policy. Now you will not live on borrowed power. You will live on your own solar powered electricity," he said

nected with the people who live there. Modi interacted with the troops and wrote in the visitor's book that peace and security are a prerequisite for development. During his day's hectic schedule, the Prime Minister inaugurated Nimoo Bazgo hydro-electric project and Leh-Kargil-Srinagar transmission system. The Prime Minister underlined his government's resolve to fight graft which has "ruined" the country. "Corruption is troubling us. People are angry. I assure that we will fight corruption and work with

Modi vows to work for Kashmiri Pandits KARGIL: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has pledged to work for the welfare of displaced Kashmiri Pandits, refugees from West Pakistan and kin of those killed in terrorist violence, saying the days of their neglect are over. "See the condition of Jammu and Kashmir where 20 per cent of the population is displaced. We want to settle these displaced people and give them opportunity of their livelihood," he said while inaugurating the 44 MW Chutak hydro-power project here.

all those against graft. Corruption has ruined the country. I promise that we will fight against corruption with full might," he said.

The Prime Minister said his government was committed to ensure that this 20 per cent population contributes in changing the destiny of the state. "More than two lakh displaced are refugees from West Pakistan, more than 4 lakh are Kashmiri Pandits, over eight to ten lakh are those who lost their families in terrorist attacks. These are also our brothers and sisters and we have to think about them," he said. He said the governments in the past have shown apathy to-

wards ensuring that these 20 lakh displaced people live a life of dignity and self-respect. "Now those days have gone. Whatever kind of displaced people are there from Jammu and Kashmir, they are our brothers and sisters and our family. Their joys and sorrows are ours. Their development is our determination and we will move forward on this through a number of schemes," he said. "We will do whatever it takes to do it and we are determined for that," he added.-PTI

Modi said the government is willing to take along all anti-corruption forces, political parties and its leaders and honest officer in its fight to end graft. "There are also honest officers. We will work with them too. If we win the fight against corruption we will win battle against poverty," he said addressing a rally at Polo ground here which

was attended by nearly 10,000 people. Dressed in traditional Ladakhi attire, Modi said government will do its best to bring a 'kesar' (saffron) revolution in Jammu and Kashmir giving impetus to its production. "We need to bring a saffron revolution that is giving impetus to kesar. Special attention should be placed to farmers," he said. "We have put Leh at the focus of our solar energy initiatives. We have to connect every corner of the country through power, rail, road and telecommunication," Modi said. The Prime Minister said development must be such that it positively transforms the lives of the common people. He said three Ps - Prakash (solar light), Parayawaran (environment) and Paryatan (tourism) are the assets of Jammu and Kashmir and all efforts would be taken for their development. "We have kept Ladakh at the centre of our solar energy policy. Now you will not live on borrowed power. You will live on your own solar powered electricity," he said. He said government is planning special projects including large-scale organic farming for the development of all Himalayan states including. "I am fortunate to have worked for the party organization in Jammu and Kashmir. I used to visit the state often. I know the problems people face and most importantly I know the strength of this land," he said. Modi said there was a time when PMs never visited this state and he has come here two times already as Ladakh's affection draws him here. -PTI

PIO jewellery tycoon in House of Lords LONDON: Indian-origin jewellery tycoon Ranbir Singh Suri, who had donated 312,000 pounds to the Conservative Party, has been made a member of the British House of Lords. Suri, founder chairman of the British Asian Conservative Link, is among the 22 new eminent personalities who were conferred "Peerages of the United Kingdom for Life". Suri, Chairman of the Oceanic Jewellers Ltd, ranks among Britain's richest Asians, with a wealth estimated at 40 million pounds. He was also the Prime Minister's

former director of strategy. Suri is understood to have donated over 312,000 pounds to the Conservative Party both personally and through his company Oceanic Jewellers. He was the founder and chairman of the British Asian Conservative Link which was set up in 1998 to encourage Asians to participate more fully in political life. Other individuals on the list include Karren Brady, the Apprentice television star and businesswoman, together with Sir Stuart Rose, the retail businessman and Sir Michael Farmer, the Conservatives' co-treasurer.-PTI

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Sonia attacks Modi govt over communal violence THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Mounting a frontal attack on Narendra Modi Government, Congress President Sonia Gandhi said there has been an increase in communal violence in the country since it came to power and alleged this was part of a "deliberate" attempt to divide the people. Speaking at a party forum outside Delhi for the first time after the Lok Sabha polls, Gandhi said recurrence of communal violence in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and other parts of the country was a "matter of grave concern", remarks which came days after Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi had alleged that communal conflicts in UP have been "deliberately engineered".

"There has been an increase in communal violence in the country since 11 weeks of the BJP-led Government coming to power at the Centre... These were deliberately created to divide the people," she said addressing a special convention organized by the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) here. "More than 600 incidents of communal violence happened in Uttar Pradesh and, perhaps, as many in Maharashtra," she said, adding that "during the UPA I and II rule hardly any such incident had happened". Gandhi also criticized the Narendra Modi Government for its alleged "failure" to suf-

ficiently express solidarity with the Palestinian people over Israel's assault on Gaza. Alluding to the reluctance of the government to adopt a resolution on the issue in the Lok Sabha, she said "this has muted

the country's response to the suffering people and betrayed its long tradition of solidarity with the people in Palestine and the vision of two states existing side-byside in peace and harmony."-PTI

Sikhs asks NY Mayor to address hate crime NEW YORK: In the wake of two alleged hate crimes against Sikhs here, a civil rights group has appealed to New York Mayor

Bill de Blasio to urgently address the issue of discrimination against the minority community. The Sikh Coalition has written to de Blasio seeking to meet him "to address hate crimes and discrimination against Sikhs" in the city. The group approached the city administration following two attacks in as many weeks against Sikhs in the city. Earlier this month, 29-year old Sandeep Singh was brutally injured when he was hit and dragged nearly 30 feet on a public street in Queens by a pick-up truck following an argument with the truck's driver who called him a "terrorist" who should "go back to your country". Last week, another Sikh man, identified in a report by Huffington Post as Jaspreet Singh Batra and his mother were attacked by a group of teenagers who called him "Osama Bin Laden". Batra, a physician scientist, was confronted by about 10 teenagers who used derogatory language against his mother and made fun of her facial hair. The Sikh community of Queens sought to draw public attention to the hate crime issue and motivate the New York Police Department (NYPD) to focus more resources in making arrests and preventing similar crimes from happening. "Based on community feedback, we believe that the NYPD must be more proactive about its community engagement work," the Sikh Coalition said in the letter to de Blasio. It said there is a "perception" among local Sikhs that the NYPD could have deployed the Hate Crime Task Force immediately after the attack on Singh. Problems of hate crime and discrimination against the Sikhs are "compounded by the fact that the NYPD actively discriminates against turbaned Sikhs who wish to serve as law enforcement officers," the group said. It said while turbaned Sikhs serve as police officers in Canada, India, and the United Kingdom, they are not permitted to serve in the police department in New York City. "This makes no sense from a community policing perspective and is contrary to the New York City Human Rights Law as well as federal civil rights law," the group said. The group urged the Mayor to act upon his promise of ensuring that everyone's rights are respected in the city and police and community stand together to confront violence. In an interview to the Huffington Post, Batra said he hopes justice will be delivered.-PTI

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PM laments absence of humor Cong criticizes Bhagwat over 'Hindus' comments in Parliament NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lamented the growing absence of wit and humor in Parliamentary proceedings remarking that lawmakers fear how media will play it up. "Humor and wit are gradually fading away from Parliamentary proceedings as members are apprehensive as to what color the 24x7 (media) would give to even one proverb they utter," he said. Modi was speaking at a function at which Arun Jaitley, Karan Singh and Sharad Yadav were presented the outstanding Parliamentarian awards by President Pranab Mukherjee in the presence of Vice President Hamid Ansari and Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan along with a galaxy of parliamentarians. He recalled a barb by Sushma Swaraj on Sharad Pawar during a function in Parliament some two decades back dubbing him as Lalita Pawar (veteran actress known for her negative roles). He said while the NCP leader thoroughly enjoyed the remark, there was no proper coverage of

President Pranab Mukherjee presenting the Outstanding Parliamentarian Award for the years 2010 to Arun Jaitley, at a function, at Balayogi Auditorium, Parliament Library Building, in New Delhi on August 12. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also seen

the light banter. The Prime Minister also said that Parliament does not function only on the basis of oratory. "As long as there is no confluence of oratory, action and leadership, neither Parliament can be influenced nor na-

tions would be inspired", he said. He also wanted a survey to be undertaken to get feedback from the people about the functioning of Parliament. He said this would give ideas on how to move forward.-PTI

NEW DELHI: Criticizing RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat for his statement suggesting that all Hindustanis are Hindus, Congress has said India is a multicultural and multi-religious society which has not accepted RSS ideologue MS Golwalkar's definition of 'Hindutva'. "For last many days, we are hearing about purification. What women should wear and about new history being written. It is a matter of concern... "India is a multi-cultural and multi-religious society and has not accepted Golwalkar's definition of 'Hindutva'," party spokesperson Anand Sharma told reporters here. Earlier in the day, Congress leader Manish Tewari said Bhagwat would be well-advised to read the Constitution which very specifically states that India is Bharat, a union of state, and the word "Hindustan" is nowhere mentioned. Bhagwat had asked if inhabitants of England are English, Germany are Germans and USA are Americans then why all in-

habitants of Hindustan are not known as Hindus. "The cultural identity of all Indians is Hindutva and the present inhabitants of the country are descendants of this great culture," Bhagwat said while speaking at the 'Golden Jubilee' function of an Odia weekly in Bhubaneswar. Meanwhile, on the issue of Bhagwat not giving credit to any individual for BJP's stupendous poll, Sharma said this is trying to puncture one particular individual. Bhagwat had said that the BJP came to power at the Centre because the common man wanted change, disagreeing with the suggestion that the party's victory in the Lok Sabha elections was solely due to any individual's personal pull. "This is between BJP and RSS. Let the BJP respond to RSS chief's comment not the Congress," Congress leader Rajeev Shukla said outside Parliament House when asked about Bhagwat's comment about the reasons of the victory. -PTI

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Cong opposes appeal by rights group in 1984 case NEW YORK: The Congress party has opposed an appeal filed by a Sikh group that challenged dismissal of the 1984 rights violation case against it, saying the group does not represent the victims and US courts cannot rule on

SFJ had in May challenged the dismissal of the 1984 rights violation case against the Congress party saying that the case "concerns" the US and it has "institutional standing" to seek judgment on behalf of the Sikh community.

Batra said US federal judge Robert Sweet was right to dismiss SFJ's case in April since the rights group is no victim and neither does it represent the victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots cases involving an incident that took place in India 30 years ago. Indian-American attorney Ravi Batra, on behalf of the Congress party, filed opposition in federal court to the appeal by Sikh for Justice (SFJ).

"honor India's sovereignty in a matter that arose 30 years ago in India by and between Indians," and so it must be dealt with in India alone. Batra said that the Indian National Congress (INC), as a legal corporate entity and not a natural living breathing person, is incapable of extra-judicial killings or torture. "SFJ's cases seek mere publicity and not justice, as SFJ cannot legally be a plaintiff, and a genuine victim, precious to the law, deserves a better champion, "Batra said. Batra also criticized SFJ for "making noises" against Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to the US and said the group had improperly sued former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also last year, "despite his headof-state immunity."

SFJ has launched an online petition campaign urging President Barack Obama to cancel invitation to Modi for the 2002 communal riots in Gujarat. He said SFJ's actions are "unbecoming, and at worst an exposure of SFJ's unlimited hunger for

publicity while it indiscriminately dishonors India and all Indians in these United States without cause." The US Court of Appeals has granted SFJ time till August 22 to file its brief against Congress party's arguments. -PTI

India a most dynamic country: UK MP LONDON: India has secured its place as one of the world's most remarkable and dynamic countries, an Indian-origin MP of the Britain's Conservative Party has said. Priti Patel, 42, said Indians could be proud of their country's important role in shaping the new world. "Since Jawaharlal Nehru delivered his historic speech on 15th August 1947, India has secured its place as one of the world's most remarkable and dynamic countries. Through the spirit of its people and the power of its global vision, India is shaping today's new world in ways that we can be so proud of," Patel said. Wishing the Indian community in the UK and abroad ahead of India's 67th Independence Day on August 15, Patel said, celebration of Indian culture, heritage and

aspirations lay at the heart of Indian Diaspora's Independence Day festivities. "Celebrating our vibrant culture, heritage and aspirations while uniting us as one global community is at the heart of our Independence Day festivities," Patel said.

Priti Patel

"India Independence Day is a special occasion when we can all reflect on what we have achieved together and what we can look forward to in the future," she said. "I offer my best wishes to the Indian community in both the UK and overseas as we celebrate India's 67th Independence Day together." she added. -PTI

Mother barred from visiting India with her son LONDON: An Indian-origin mother has been barred from visiting India along with her six-yearold son by a British family court after her ex-husband expressed fear that she might not return. The Indian-born woman, who is in her 30s and cannot be named for legal reasons, insisted she had absolutely no intention of abducting her son and simply wanted to take him to meet his extended family and "explore his cultural roots". But Judge Clifford Bellamy ruled in favor of the father, also in his 30s and who was born in Le-

icester. The mother has lived in the city for nine years since their arranged marriage but is now living alone with her son, according to a report in the local 'Leicester Mercury' newspaper. The city's Family Court heard that the father was engaged in a running battle with his ex-wife over contact with their little boy. All three now have UK passports. Judge Bellamy said India had not signed up the Hague Convention which enshrines the international ban on child abduction.-PTI

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COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA

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Tulsidas birth anniversary celebrated with pomp

August 15, 2014

Details on page 24

Festival of India & Parade turns Global with Movie Fest

Details on page 18

Sayeed calls for unity among Indian Americans A.Q. SIDDIQUI

CHICAGO: As we celebrate India's 68th Independence Day through cultural and community programs, unity among Indian Americans is most desirable, remarked Dr Ausaf Sayeed, Indian Consul General in Chicago. He was addressing a large gathering of Indian American community at FIA Gala Banquet on Sunday evening at Meadows Club near Chicago. Dr Sayeed, known for his community instinct within a short period of his tenure, said that at first he thought he would not be able to attend the FIA dinner as Consul General and depute his staff, but was happy that he could finally make it. Details on page 18

Laddi aspires to be Lawmaker in Illinois State RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service

CHICAGO: Software engineer by education, athlete by vocation and woman entrepreneur by profession, Laddi Singh, a young energetic first generation Indian woman has picked up a gauntlet in different area - politics. She is fighting an incumbent Republican candidate Rep. Tom Morrison, R-Palatine in the 54th District of the Illinois House. Details on page 20

RITU MAHESHWARI India Post News Service

FREMONT, CA: The 22nd Festival of India and Parade will be held on August 16 and 17 at 39439 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont, CA. For past 21 years, FIA organized Festival of India has come to symbolize the unity, integrity, culture and best of the things that

For past 21 years, FIA organized Festival of India has come to symbolize the unity, integrity, culture and best of the things that are hallmark of the Indian community in Bay area are hallmark of the Indian community in Bay area. Celebrated over two days, this festival has many

popular and well sought after segments such as health fair, grand parade, Bollywood celebrity as

Grand Marshal, kids talent programs, cultural programs representing cross section of India and a Mela (fair) that features best of offers for Indian community. Keeping up with the FIA tradition, Ayushman Khurana, famous Bollywood star of "Vicky Donor" fame and famous TV host will be the Grand Marshal, leading this year's parade. Esha Deol is the Co-Grand Marshal and Vinod Khanna (1998 Grand Marshal) will attend the parade. This largest celebration of democracy coincides with India Independence Day and the Celebrations will start with flag hoisting ceremony on August 13th in the city of Milpitas followed by on August 14th in San Jose. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 19

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Hindu temple in Monroe, Georgia vandalized MIKE GHOUSE

LIVINGSTON, NJ: Early Saturday morning, August 2, Vishwa Bhavan Mandir, a Hindu temple in Monroe, Georgia, discovered their building and the statue of Lord Siva (murti) were vandalized. The building and the statue was defaced with black spray paint with,

profane and damaging graffiti. The Walton County Sheriff Department's has started a search for the perpetrator of this crime. So far, it is not known who com-

mitted this act of vandalism. The Mandir management reached out to Hindu American Seva Communities (HASC) to guide it in developing an emergency action plan and to bring more awareness on the issue of vandalism and hate crime in our

temples. HASC works closely with the Department of Homeland Security. And, as a member of DHS' Faith Based Advisory Council, HASC provides a Hindu/

Dharmic perspective to the agency. The desecration of the Lord Shiva statue (murti) was significantly heartbreaking for the Hindu community in Georgia, as it is the main deity of worship. Across the country, we find, many mandirs (temples) do not actively voice their concerns other than file a police report. Anju Bhargava, HASC Board Member, said, "It is important for our places of worship, around the country, to be aware of what has happened as this could happen to anyone. They should educate themselves and be prepared with a security plan and not wait for an act of vandalism or a hate crime to start the process. Just last week in Queens, NY a Sikh father of two was critically injured due to a targeted hate crime, hence it becomes even more imperative for the Dharmic com-

munity (people of eastern traditions) to speak up and have more law enforcement resources devoted to finding the hate attackers." HASC is a progressive American organization advancing seva (community service), and social justice to ignite grassroots social

such educational resource is the Guide for Developing High-Quality Emergency Operations Plans for Houses of Worship which can augment development of security and protection plans. HASC has called upon places of worship to transform this heinous crime and moment of pain

change and build healthy communities while strengthening our places of worship. Through education and policy changes it seeks to bridge the gap between US government and Hindu and Dharmic people and places of worship. One

into a moment of greater understanding and social harmony. It is important for us to come together and address the issue of vandalism and hate crime impacting our communities and places of worship, it says.

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Mother files suit over Pravin Varughese death MADHU PATEL

CHICAGO: The mother of a Southern Illinois University student who was found dead in February has filed a lawsuit against the city of Carbondale and a man she claims gave her son a ride before he disappeared. Lovely Varughese of Morton Grove filed the suit on August 7 in Jackson County Circuit Court against that driver, as well as the city of Carbondale and its police chief, Jody O'Guinn. Her son, 19-year-old Niles West graduate Pravin Varughese, went missing Feb. 12 after leaving a party in Carbondale. Police

initially said Pravin Varughese, 19, may have been on drugs when he got lost after a party and froze to death Hypothermia. Varughese family and friends at Media meet in Rolling Meadows. From left: Lovely Varughese (Pravin's mother), Vandana Jhingan, Gladson Varughese (General convener Pravin Action Council), Priya Varughese, Preetha Varughese

However, an independent autopsy and toxicology examination, performed on behalf of the Varughese family by Dr Ben Margolis, concluded that Pravin's blood and vitreous fluid were negative for drugs or alcohol at the time of his death. But despite having their unwavering belief confirmed, the Varughese family still do not have answers to the most troubling questions of what happened to Pravin, and why. "The family and community still believe it is a murder, even though the police investigation is going in the other direction," said Gladson Varughese. According to police reports, the trooper who spoke to the driver on the road that night says the driver told him he offered a man a ride and asked for gas money but the man punched him and ran into the woods. Talking to the ethnic Indian media at Meadows club in Rolling Meadows, Varughese's mother, Lovely, said "Every day is a hard day. I wake up in the morning, and I think it's all a dream." Members of Lovely's Indian community

Pravin Varughese missing & Reward poster

stood together and created an investigative committee to assist with bringing justice for the family. The committee was organized by co-conveners, Gladson Varughese and Mariamma Pillai "The incident of Pravin brought the Indian community together for a great cause. " said co-convener, Gladson Varughese. "More than 1000 people attended our first meeting to express concerns to Lt. Governor Sheila Simon, who was also in attendance. Now we have over 50,000 signatures in support of a diligent investigation." With over 50,000 petitions and support coming from all across the country, the community's involvement is greatly assisting. "As the citizens of this country, we all have human rights," says Mariamm Pillai, co-convener of the investigative committee. "As an Indian community, we strongly feel our human rights are violated and we will go at any length to find the truth." The Varughese family did not believe nor do believe even now that Pravin was either on drug or had an accidental death. They want answers to many an unanswered question. Initially they had posted a huge reward to get information surrounding the death of their son.

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Emirates daily non-stop service begins from Chicago A.Q. SIDDIQUI India Post News Service

CHICAGO: Amidst cheers and large gathering of VIPs, media persons and affiliated travel agents, Emirates non-stop flight from Dubai landed at Chicago's O'Hare International airport on Tuesday, August 5 afternoon. With this, Chicago becomes Emirates 9th gateway city in the United States.

now connected and enhance business opportunities. Adel al Redha said, "The launch of Emirates from Chicago extends our passenger network to America's third largest city." Travelers from Midwest will fly on award winning service of Emirates to Dubai and onward 140 world destinations. Emirates offers convenient connections to destinations in The Emirate flight that landed at Chicago O Hare last week

The Emirate Team: Emirates Vice President Adel Al Redha third from left, Ali Kazmi second from left, Andrea Smagacz 4th from left and others

Flight EK 235 that left Dubai at 9.45am arrived at Chicago 3.25pm local time flying non-stop for 14 hours and 40 minutes and bringing in passengers from over 20 countries across the globe. Onboard the EK inaugural flight was a joint VIP delegation from US and Dubai. Emirates Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Adel Al Redha flew into Chicago with the first operation. The maiden flight was accorded a ceremonial recep-

Middle East, Africa, India and Pakistan. Travelers can avail Dubai stopover en route to any destination on Emirates net work. Emirates is operating Boeing 777-200LR series aircraft with a seating configuration of 3-4-3 in economy for 216 passengers, 42 Business class seats and 8 Private First Class suites. Media persons and VIPs were led into aircraft for a personal experience of Emirates' award winning facilities on board. The awe-

Chicago Department of Aviation Commissioner Rosemarie Andolino & Emirates Vice President Adel Al Redha with Emirate crew members

tion by City of Chicago on behalf of Mayor Rahm Emanuel and his business team. Chicago fire fighters at O'Hare airport gave a shower welcome to EK first landing. As the aircraft steered close to gangway and stopped, the Emirates captain opened the cockpit window and waved a UAE flag signaling the bond of business relations between UAE and US. Chicago Department of Aviation Commissioner Rosemarie Andolino welcomed Emirates' operation to Chicago and remarked world's two busiest airports are

some First Class suites reflected unique luxury on board for the corporate travelers. Meant for privacy and personalized service, the Private Suites are fully equipped with a sliding door, a personal minibar and their own vanity table, mirror and wardrobe. Earlier, Emirates Chicago office local team members Andrea Smagacz Sales Manager and Ali Kazmi Senior Sales Officer welcomed the guests at Emirates newly inaugurated check in counter at O'Hare airport's Terminal 5.

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Sayeed calls for unity among Indian Americans A.Q. SIDDIQUI

ner as Consul General and depute his staff, but was happy that he could finally make it. Dr Sayeed reiterated for unity among Indian Americans throughout his speech. He cited recent elections in India as the example of world's great democracy. He hailed Prime Minister Indian CG being honored at FIA Banquet

Narendra Modi for his pro-public administration. From his first day in office, Prime Minister Modi has steered administration for public service. At Indian Consulate Chicago we did the same pro-public approach. Dr Sayeed said that the day he took over in Chicago he wanted the consulate office service oriented and community friendly. "We are here to serve you and our doors are open for the Midwest Indian American community," he said. Earlier, Keerthi Kumar Ravoori, FIA president welcomed the guests and inaugurated the event. Keerthi said as an Umbrella organization of diverse Indian organizations FIA stands for the great Indian ideals of unity. He said tonight celebration dinner gives us an opportunity to collectively celebrate Indian Independence Day. And of course, he said, there is lot of entertainment and great colorful Parade and Mela to follow on next weekend. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 24

Plans ready for grand NaMo victory celebration BEENA PATEL

CHICAGO: The Chicago Community Organizers and Indian Associations' leaders got together in Schaumburg on August 6 to discuss the final planning of Narendra Modi's Grand Victory Celebration. Naren Patel, President of Vishwa Gujarati Samaj-USA welcomed and thanked everyone for their support and harmony amongst the Indian community leaders. "People are so excited as they all respect and love PM Modi. Indian people have high hopes that his leadership, vision and experience can be put into action and our motherland India can reach the height of success and progress," he said in his address The event is scheduled for Sunday August 16 in Bartlett. Guests will arrive at 3 pm for Narendra Modi's Life Exhibition. The decoration will be exceptional. The next thing will be statute of Narendra Modi which will be placed in the Photo-Booth so that families can take a picture and keep it as a memory of the day. The booths and Bazar will be another attraction and those coming to the event will have lots of choice of jewelry exhibition, Indian outfits and sarees. Besides, a number of organizations will display their information to reach out to a wider audience and promote their services. Dinner will be served for people who are fasting for Janmashtami as well as regular food at 5:15 p.m. and the cultural program will begin sharp at 6:45 p.m. with Indian and American National Anthem. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 20

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Festival of India & Parade turns Global with Movie Fest Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 14

This year's special feature is star-studded SF Global Movie Fest, to be held on August 15, 16 and 17. FIA is expanding its horizons to include a larger cross section of global community. FIA brings a grand movie festival featuring best of the best short films from all over the globe.

bind all Bay Area Indians together. Transcending from national and Indian cultural integration, this year's Global Movie Fest aims to bring like-minded global citizens together in sharing and strengthening cultural bonds that propels us to unite and work together to prosper and grow." Rajesh Verma (Chairman and Event Coordinator) said, "21st Fes-

ues to be the main attraction of Festival of India every year. There is renewed interest, enthusiasm and participation from various parts of community in making the parade a grand success. We are planning to increase the number of floats significantly and leave an indelible impression of rich Indian culture this year." Ritu Maheshwari (Chair-Media

PROGRAM 22nd Festival of India and Parade Saturday, August 16, 2014 Place: 39439 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont, CA 94538 Time: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm 10:00 am - 12:00 noon: Free "Health Fair" 10:00 am - 7:00 pm: Cultural Program, dance Competition continuous entertainment. Kids talent programs, Over 100 food and trade stalls 7:00 pm onwards: Gala Reception Nite for JIC members at Japra Vineyards, Fremont

22nd Festival of India and Parade Sunday, August 17, 2014 Place: 39439 Paseo Padre Parkway, Fremont, CA 94538 Time: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm Parade: 12:00 noon - 2:00 pm (Check out Parade Route on FIA Website. Suggest assemble along Paseo Padre Parkway early to get viewing from a advantageous point on the parade route) 2:00 pm - 4:30 pm: Awards, recognition of Grand Marshal, selected entertainment items with Grand Marshal and invited Hollywood and Bollywood celebrities. 4:30 pm - 7:00 pm: Cultural Program and continuous entertainment. Trade booths and Food stall open until 7:00 pm Selected from over thousand movie entries, nominations in the categories of Narrative Short, Narrative Feature, Documentary Feature, Bay Area Film Initiative, South Asian Panorama will be screened at Towne 3 theaters on all three days. An accomplished jury of Bollywood and Hollywood personalities will select the winners in each category. On August 15 is the Opening Nite Gala. There will be a press conference at 6 pm at California Theater in San Jose followed by standup comedy by Hollywood Comedian Eddie Griffin, multicultural performances, and a Fashion Show. Many dignitaries, ambassadors, movie actors, producers and directors will be attending. From 9 pm to11 pm there will be world premiere of movie "Last Supper". Josh Meyers, Robin Bhatt, Barkha Roy, Rahat Kazmi are some of the other celebrities attending the event. On August 16th, there will be world premiere of the movie "Identity Card" from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm in Towne 3 theaters in San Jose. August 17 will be award night to be held in San Jose Garden Hotel. FIA Convener and President Dr Romesh Japra said, "The "Festival of India represents our Indian heritage. Being held for the past 21 years, it brings out the best of Indian culture, art and values. It has become a tradition that will continue for decades to come and

tival of India and Parade celebrations are poised to be bigger and broader than before. There is tremendous zeal and enthusiasm among the volunteers and community to take the Festival to the next level." Deepak Chhabra (Chair - Parade) said, "The Parade contin-

Relations) said, "This year a special media lounge is being created, where representatives from different news outlets can comfortably participate, watch and cover the festival. Free media passes and access will be provided for the Festival as well as to key segments of the events."

Please check out FIA Website www.fiaonline.org for more details Visit www.fiaonline.org for more details and parade route for 2014. Tickets can be purchased at sulekha.com/FIA. More information is available at www.sfmoviefest.com for SF Glo-

bal movie Fest movie screenings. Given above events, this year's Festival of India is turning out to be a global event. FIA invites everyone to come together and make this a grand success.

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Laddi aspires to be Lawmaker in Illinois State RAMESH SOPARAWALA India Post News Service

Laddi Singh

has rallied behind her boosting her chance to be the first ever Asian woman representative in Illinois. In a talk to this paper, Laddi Singh exuded huge confidence based on her door to door campaign in 54th District and the huge

favorable nod that she has been getting not only from ethnic minorities but even from members of the mainstream American society. "Many like my sincerity of purpose and transparency besides my clear cut position on many a burning issue facing Illinois residents. The additional advantage that I have is being a business woman," she said. The Illinois state government is saddled with a number of issues starting with huge budget deficit, mounting pension burden, health care, job creations and improving educational facilities. She said that in the short run there is no option but to put up with higher income tax rate that Governor Pat Quinn introduced a couple of years ago. "This was to be a short term hike but it appears that there is no way out to make that increase permanent or to continue with it for the next few years to fix the yawning budget deficit," she said. In the long run, improving the State economic condition and creating more jobs would help ease the situation. She also underlined the need to cut down wasteful expenditure in all areas of government and streamline the administration to make it more efficient and effective. She was all for reforming the defunct pension system as other-

One of the many fundraisers hosted by Indian community members for Laddi Singh. This was in Palatine last week

wise the State will go broke bringing down its credit rating. This in its turn will make it difficult to borrow money for meeting its obligations. She however, wanted to take the members of the Union into confidence and work out an amiable deal with the persons affected by the cut or the reform. The pension issue is with the court at present and she would not be drawn much into detail about it. Laddi Singh was all for Obama Care that has provided an easy access to all uninsured people in the country, including Illinois state, to get health insurance cover. "I am a health care profes-

sional and I have seen huge merit in the entire system envisioned by President Obama," she said. She wanted business friendly environment to be created in the State for attracting more business here. Many companies leave Illinois to go to Indiana or other States to take advantage of their relative low tax rates. "We have not only to induce these companies to keep their moorings here but attract more outsiders too so that the industrial spurt will create more jobs and more revenue for the State," she said. Laddi Singh is Pro Choice and feels that it should be left to indi-

vidual women to decide on the question of abortion. She has big support from the top wigs of the Democratic Party and she is hugely optimistic the 54th District will go to Democrats in the November elections. She hails from the Punjab state in India and had her schooling in Nangal and college education at Khalsa University. She was good in studies getting a degree in computer science and also excelled in sports, playing a lead role in the College soccer team and getting medals at state and national championship tournaments.

Plans ready for grand NaMo victory celebration Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 18

The Consul General of India and Community leaders will light a lamp and then there will be cultural dance performances from various States of India. The Dance India Dance winner Kamlesh Patel will entertain with his amazing talent and special art effects. There will be a special dance performance that includes all religions because Indians lives peacefully side by side and embrace and respect all religions. Toral Chaudhary from Kalashree Dance Academy will give a special Gujarati Garbo. A playback singer and a live band from India by Manpasand Entertainment will spice the program. The program will continue

Gathering to chalk out NaMo victory celebrations

until 10 pm and people can go to Temples for Janmashtami Mahotsav. The buses will be

provided from Haveli and other Senior Centers. Naren Patel says people will be impressed with

the exhibition and program and will talk about it for a long time. If anyone wishes to volunteer

for providing transportation to seniors, please reach out to your friends, family and neighbors.

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Dr Manu Vora to get Harrington/Ishikawa Medal SURENDRA ULLAL

CHICAGO: The Asia Pacific eas of leadership excellence, cusQuality Organization (APQO) has tomer satisfaction, employee enselected Dr Manu K. Vora as re- gagement, and process improvecipient of the 2014 Harrington/ ment. He also served as a ChairIshikawa Medal. The Medal will person for ASQ Chicago Section. be presented at the 20th Asia Pa- He is an ASQ Fellow and Certified cific Quality Conference from No- Quality Engineer. vember 23-25 in Kuala Lumpur, Dr Vora has made significant Malaysia. contributions to The award is Social Respongiven annually sibility and to an individual Community Serwho has made vice areas. For outstanding over 44 years, Dr contributions Vora has dedito the advancecated his life to ment of quality community serin the Asia Pavice. In 1989, cific region. under his leaderOver the last ship, the Blind 39 years, Dr Foundation for Vora has conIndia (BFI) was Dr Manu Vora tributed to Gloestablished to bal Manageserve over 15 ment Thinking. He is Chairman and million visually impaired people in President of Business Excellence, India, which accounts for one Inc., a global quality management third of the world's blind populaconsulting service firm. He has tion. Since 1970, Dr Vora has raised guided Fortune 500 companies over $8 million for a variety of with Baldrige Performance Excel- charitable and professional lence Award assessment in the ar- causes.

FIA-Chicago to feature TV stars Mohit & Neha MADHU PATEL

Zee TV Stars Mohit Malik & Neha Marda

CHICAGO: Federation of Indian Associations-Chicago [FIA] has moved into count-down phase to flag-off one of the most dazzling India Independence Day Parades & Mela festivities on Saturday August 16 on Mahatma Gandhi Marg It is learnt that Illinois Governor Pat Quinn and US Senator Richard Durbin would be present during the Parade. The event will be further spiced with the presence of Zee TV stars Mohit Malik and Neha Marda. They will not only participate in the colorful Parade but will also 'Meet & Greet' Chicago fans at the Grand Mela to be held at 2720 W. Devon Ave, Chicago, IL.

The India Independence Day Parade will kick-off at 11:45 am from Devon Ave & Western Ave and will be followed by the Grand Mela that is sure to erupt to a spectacular start. It will be replete with eclectic array of music, dances and singing augmented by mouthwatering food samplers and free gifts/mementos to continue the Indian Independence Day festive exuberance in the India Town aka Mahatma Gandhi Marg. This Mela is hosted by FIAChicago under the chairmanship of Ajeet Singh with Minhaj Akshtar as Co-Chair and teamed up with Chicago's prominent Sahil & LA Tan.

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4-day spiritual retreat with Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj SUDHIR KUMAR & ASIAN MEDIA

VJMA Chicago organizers with devotees and volunteers

CHICAGO: Vishwa Jagriti Mission of North America (VJMNA) organized four days of spiritual and divine retreat at Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago in Lemont, Celebration Campus in Naperville and on the Cruise in Lake Michigan with renowned Indian Saint and spiritual guru, Shri Sudhanshuji Maharaj and his elder daughter Dr Archika Sudhanshu. The event attended by hundreds from across Chicagoland began July 24 and culminated with Amrit Varsha involving cruise on Michigan Lake on July 27. On Thursday July, 24, the program was started with emcee Anju Lal at 7 pm. Devotees enjoyed the melodious Bhajans sung by Anju Lal, Raju Bankapur, Pratibha Jairath. Founder member of VJMNA, Praveen Verma introduced Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj. Two hours of discourse on "Prayer", given by Maharaj Ji was informative, detail oriented and left the audience awestruck. Session also included most popular Vedic prayers and their meaning. On Friday July 25, Anil Dhutia, Gaurang Shukla and Jagdish Yadav sang the tuneful bhajans and the devotional topic was "Karma and Bhagya (Destiny)" which was explained in such a way that each and every one in the audience was totally captivated. How much our actions contribute to any situation and what is the role of destiny and then Grace plays a significant role too in our lives. Session was embraced with short meditation by Dr Archika Sudhanshu.

Meditation Empowerment Workshop was held on Saturday July 26 and Sunday July 27 from 7-30 am to 10 am at Vivekananda Spiritual Center in Lemont by Dr Archika Sudhanshu. Power Point Presentation was very clearly explained and made an impact in everyone's heart. Relation between mind, body and spirit was made very clear. Different Pranayams were demonstrated and our seven energy sources (chakras) were explained with their benefits and activation method. Saturday July 26, the continuation of divine retreat moved to Celebration Campus in Naperville where Devi Pariwar lifted the audience spirit with devotional B h a j a n s . Sudhashu Ji touched upon very sensitive issue of the modern world "Stress free life." Simple yet effective methods on how to live stress free life and how to manage stress were explained. The culmination was the Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm. 130 special devotees attended the event. Sudhir Trikha,

Relation between mind, body and spirit was made very clear. Different Pranayams were demonstrated and our seven energy sources (chakras) were explained with their benefits and activation method.

Sunita Sehgal and Sharda Verma, who came all the way from India, sang devotional and melodious Bhajans with Puran Vyas on Tabla. Young kids participated in chanting Guru Vandana with meaning. Maharaj Ji was joined by Guru Ma and daughter Dr Archika Sudhanshu. A sumptuous vegetarian lunch was served by Shree Restaurant each day. Organizers Sudhir Kumar, Praveen Verma, Hari Gupta and Krishna Bansal, the dedicated devotees, had planned the event magnificently with befitting decoration.

VJM is actively involved in promoting religious and humanitarian activities for the elderly, physically handicapped, orphans and poor/ underprivileged. Some of the main activities include: Meditation camps & temples for prayers: spiritual revival get-togethers; providing high quality medical facilities to the poor; Vriddhashrams for senior citizens; Balashram, tribal development projects; Gurukul Updeshak Mahavidyalaya; Gaushala (Cowshed) and Disaster Management. The Chicago based VJMNA is a national outfit of the parent body in India.

Sudhanshu Ji Maharaj with children during Amrit Varsha cruise on Michigan Lake

August 15, 2014

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Tulsidas birth anniversary celebrated with pomp GEETHA PATIL

CHICAGO: The Hindu Mandir of Lake County celebrated the birth anniversary of Sant Goswami Tulsi Das, the author of Ram Charitmanas with utmost gaiety and joy. Tulsidas Ji, a medieval poetsaint known for his devotion for Lord Rama and Hanuman, is among the most respected literary figures in Indian history. More than 100 devotees from different Indian communities gathered at the temple to revel in the event and listen to the discourse on 'Sant Tulsi Das Ji and his work' given by our well-known Kathakar and speaker Pt Anil Joshi as a of tribute. The program was started by him with Lord Ram Parivar, Hanuman Ji and Sant Tulsi Das Ji pujan. Special Archanas were also performed for the welfare and prosperity of the society on this occasion. Melodious devotional Bhajans were sung by Sangeetha Singh, Rita Patel, Atul Soni, and Avinash Kotagi. Prabhakar Joshi

Devotees at Saint Tulsidas birth anniversary celebrations

young and senior volunteers for their services and support to the

This great Holy Scripture teaches us how to develop and maintain our social, familial, and individual relationships in life. The characters in this Scripture are powerful and act as role models to teach and inspire us to build our own personality narrated to the devotees about the life of Sant Tulsi Das Ji. President Harsh Kumar honored a group of

temple. Finally, Pt Joshi spoke about the 'importance and relevance of

Ram Charitmanas in our lives and paid tributes to this great Sant by enlightening devotees about his work. This great Holy Scripture, teaches us how to develop and maintain our social, familial, and individual relationships in life. The characters in this Scripture are powerful and act as role models to teach and inspire us to build our own personality and identification in life. Family is a basic unit of a society. A good and cultured family becomes a role model to the whole world. Sant Tulsi Das Ji very cleverly depicts the ideal roles of a fa-

ther, mother, step mother, son, brothers, and wives, said Pt. Joshi Ji. He also said that the role of parents, teachers, and especially mother is great in making children cultured and become responsible citizens. Selfishness, greed, egoism, superioritycomplex and lack of tolerance and sacrificing nature for others' happiness ruins the close ties between members of the family Pt. Joshi added that every speaker on any Indian holy scriptures, Vedas, and Puranas concludes their speech by quoting some examples from Rama

Charitmanas as it comprises facts and information about any situation that happens in our lives. In addition, he said that for any great nation, the cordial, reliable, and trustworthy relationship between ruler and citizens is important. After Maha Mangalarati was performed with tunefully singing choir, a delicious, home-made, satvik Prasadam prepared by Smt. Kiran Joshi Ji (Rajalakshmi) and others was served to all devotees. This warm, educational, and enlightening evening was enjoyed by everyone.

Sayeed calls for unity among Indian Americans Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 18

Keerthi announced that celebrity Zee TV Stars Mohit Malik and Neha Marda will walk through India Parade this Saturday on Devon Ave. While community pulse Iftekhar Shareef could not make it as his departure from Hyderabad was delayed, other FIA senior trustees and prominent community members were seen among the guests. A ceremonial lamp was lit for the inauguration of Independence Day celebration jointly by Indian Consulate General and other FIA trustees. Community awards were also distributed for outstanding achievement among Midwest Indian Americans. Poonam Gupta, Ajeet Singh were among award winners. The event was also supported by Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways and Emirates. A

Members of FIA Board, Guests and CG

vote of thanks was given by Sanhita Agnihotri. The FIA planned a three-day celebration of India Indepen-

dence Day beginning with Sunday Gala dinner. An Indian flag hosting ceremony and cultural program will be hosted at Daily

Plaza Washington Street down town Chicago on Friday at 11.30 am. Iftekhar Shareef will be the Chairperson for flag hosting cer-

emony. A grand India Parade will be taken out on Devon Ave on Saturday August 16, followed by a Mela on Warrn Park.

Tech News Aus wants India to be its 'Best partner in business' MELBOURNE: Describing India as "natural partner", Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop has said that her country was seeking to elevate its status with India to 'Best partner in business' from business partners. "Australia and India are most certainly 'Partners in Business' but natural partners across the board. The Coalition Government is seeking to elevate Australia to the status of India's 'best partner in business'," Bishop told a gathering of high-profile business leaders and attendees at Australia India Business Council (AIBC) in Sydney recently. "Sure, we have a healthy trade relationship - two-way trade was valued at more than 15 billion dollars last year - but we can do better than that. At the end of last year, Indian investment in Australia was about 11 billion dollars but this Government is determined to make it easier for India to investors to invest in this country," she said. Lauding the AIBC for its commitment to forge and foster ties between the two sides, Bishop said: "one of the common refrains about the bilateral relationship is that it is one of great potential but never quite realized."-PTI

White paper to Aus: engage with India on priority MELBOURNE: Ahead of Prime Minister Tony Abbott's visit to India next month, a white paper submitted to the Australian government has sought early inking of an economic cooperation pact and urgent engagement with the new Indian government to reverse the dwindling bilateral trade. Citing that there was an urgent need to reverse the declining trade with India which dropped by over 26 per cent between 2009 to 2013, the white paper titled 'The Australia- India Trade Relationship - Past, Present and Future possibilities', sketched a blueprint for the federal government to take the bilateral relations to a higher level. The white paper, a joint initiative of Australia India Business Council (AIBC) and Australia India Institute (AII), was presented to Australian foreign minister Julie Bishop in Sydney last week and is also expected to be presented to Prime Minister Abbott before his visit to India early next month. The white paper has sought inking of a Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) on "top priority" and called for fast engagement with the new Narendra Modi-led government. -PTI

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Adani-IOC, GAIL among bidders for gas supply in 14 cities NEW DELHI: Adani Gas-Indian Oil combine and state gas utility GAIL were among nearly a dozen firms that bid for licenses to retail CNG and piped cooking gas in 14 cites including Bengaluru and Pune. Other firms that bid for city gas distribution licenses at the close of bidding included Bharat Petroleum Corp Ltd (BPCL), Hindustan Petroleum Corp Ltd (HPCL), Gujarat Gas and GSPC, sources said. Oil regulator PNGRB had in September last year invited bids for development of CGD networks in Eranakulam in Kerala; Rangareddy/Medak, Nalgonda and Khammam in Andhra Pradesh/ Telengana; Bengaluru rural and urban districts in Karnataka; Raigarh, Pune and Thane in Maharashtra; Daman; Dadar & Nagar Haveli; Shahjahanpur in UP; Guna in MP; Panipat in Haryana and Amritsar in Punjab. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 27

Jaitley nudges RBI's Rajan to cut rate for boosting growth NEW DELHI: Nudging the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to cut interest rates in the backdrop of softening inflation, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said here he had already made his mind clear and hoped the central bank will take a call on the issue after considering various factors. Jatiley said following credit policy announcements by the RBI in June and August he had issued statements clarifying the Finance Ministry's position on growth, inflation and interest rates. "I, on the same evening (June 3 and August 5) already issued a clear statement and I think that's very clear. This is an issue that the RBI decides and I am sure they factor in various circumstances," he told reporters after addressing the Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) here. The RBI had maintained statusquo on interest rate in its two credit policies announced after the formation of the new government in May, notwithstanding the industry demand for cutting rates for boosting growth

After the August 5 RBI policy review, Jaitley had said inflation was moderating and going forward "the RBI should examine the liquidity situation, inflation and growth in setting policy rates".

dex dropped to four-month low of 5.43 per cent. On disinvestment program, Jaitley said the government has already provided the target for the current fiscal and it is pro-

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan at a press conference after the RBI Central Board Meeting in New Delhi

Earlier in June also, he had said the government was "concerned with restarting" the investment cycle and moving towards higher growth and job creation. In June, while retail inflation slipped to 30-month low of 7.31 per cent, the wholesale price in-

gressing as per schedule. Meanwhile, replying to a question on retail inflation targets for January 2015 and 2016, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Raghuram Rajan, who was present at the press meet, said "as of now, we think the policy is on

target. We (RBI's policy measures) are contingent on the data coming in". RBI is targeting a retail inflation (CPI) of 8 per cent in January 2015 and 6 per cent in the following January. Later, RBI in a statement said that while addressing the board, the Finance Minister stressed that the policy regime was being geared to attain higher growth, lower inflation and sustainable external balance in the backdrop of sub-five per cent growth in last two fiscals. The RBI Board reviewed the current economic situation, global and domestic challenges and policy responses. Jaitley also told the board that tax incentives have been enhanced to promote household savings and measures are being taken to accelerate credit flows to infrastructure and promote agriculture growth. The Board was also told that steps are being taken to encourage investment in the country.PTI

Financial inclusion will reduce corruption: Rajan MUMBAI: RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan has said the financial inclusion drive, likely to be announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15, will break the link between poor public services, patronage and corruption. "It can break a link between poor public service, patronage, and corruption that is growing more worrisome," Rajan said, delivering 20th Lalit Doshi memorial lecture here. The drive is likely to include identifying the poor, creation of unique biometric identifiers, opening bank accounts linked to these identifiers and eventually transferring government subsidies to these accounts. "When fully rolled out, I be-

lieve it will give the poor the choice and respect as well as the services they had to beg for in the past," Rajan said, adding that financial inclusion will be an important part

He also said profitability for banks is very crucial for the success of the scheme, and mentioned ideas like government paying the bank commission for

Rajan laid extra stress on the cash benefit transfers, saying "money liberates and empowers". He also said profitability for banks is very crucial for the success of the scheme, and mentioned ideas like government paying the bank commission for transfers. of government's and Reserve Bank's plans for the coming years. Rajan laid extra stress on the cash benefit transfers, saying "money liberates and empowers".

transfers. To prevent the hazard of people squandering the money on alcohol, etc, Rajan said the money could be transferred to the

women of the family, who are generally better spenders. Other aspects such as linking the transfers to conditions like children attending the school regularly too can be looked at, he said. Acknowledging that a corrupt monitor will vitiate the entire effort, Rajan advocated that we should still go ahead with the efforts and look for automation on monitoring wherever possible. Coming out against the hazard of transfers making one addictive, Rajan stressed the need to use cash transfers as a tool to build capabilities in education and health-care, rather than using the resources only for inessential consumption. -PTI

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200 new posts of IT Commissioners created NEW DELHI: With an estimated Rs 4 lakh crore of tax revenue locked up in litigation, the CBDT has created over 240 new posts of Commissioners (Appeals) to speed up the legal disposal system in the Income Tax department. "A total of 243 posts of Commissioner of I-T (Appeals) have been created in the department recently. These will be in addition to the existing 360 similar posts and will be filled by positioning IRS officers of the Income Tax cadre," a senior Finance Ministry officer said. The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), the apex policy making body of the I-T department, has been undertaking a host of steps to bolster the litigation management wing of the depart-

ment which has come under criticism not only from courts but also successive Finance Ministers and in the audit reports of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG). The senior Finance Ministry officer said these new officers will be in position soon and they are expected to start functioning within this financial year. The CIT (Appeals) office is the first avenue of grievance redressal for a taxpayer in case he or she wants to appeal against an I-T demand. Faced with a huge number of issues in this arena, the CBDT had also recently constituted a sixmember panel to examine the "efficacy" of the existing primary litigation mechanism in the I-T department. The empowered committee had

also been mandated to suggest steps to reduce legal cases at the I-T department's two dispute resolution foras and asked to submit its report within eight weeks.

The Committee, according to the terms of reference issued by CBDT, will carry out detailed analysis of appellate and assessment orders on various aspects

and recommend steps to reduce litigation before CIT (Appeal). It will also "study the efficacy of existing system of filing appeals to the ITAT by the department and suggest steps to reduce litigation before the ITAT after analyzing various aspects." A taxpayer, essentially, has a four-stage grievance redressal and litigation mechanism available beginning with an appeal to the Commissioner of I-T Appeals called CIT (A), further up to the ITAT and subsequently to the High Court and the Supreme Court. In the Budget 2014-15 speech, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had said that a tax demand of more than Rs 4 lakh crore is under dispute and litigation before various Courts and Appellate authorities. -PTI

Black money pursuit: Swiss amend key law BERNE/NEW DELHI: Under pressure from India and other countries, Switzerland has made key changes in its local laws governing assistance to foreign nations in their pursuit of black money allegedly stashed in Swiss banks. These amendments, which have come into force this month, would allow India and other countries to make 'group requests' for information about suspected black money hoarders, while Swiss authorities would not give prior intimation to suspected individuals or entities before sharing their details. However, the onus would be on India (or any other requesting nation) to establish that any prior intimation to the account holders before information exchange would defeat the "purpose of the administrative assistance" and the success of investigation would be thwarted.

In one of the major roadblocks to effective and timely exchange of information with foreign authorities about suspected illicit account

amended Federal Act on International Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters, it has now incorporated at least 10 changes in this

holders, the Swiss laws provide that the person concerned would get a prior intimation of any such international assistance and he or she is also given an opportunity to appeal against this decision and inspect the files before being transmitted to the requesting nation. While Switzerland has decided to retain these clauses in its

Act to lower guard on its famed banking secrecy walls to improve its information-exchange framework. According to one of these amendments forming part of a new Gazette Notification, "If the foreign authority demonstrates grounds for secrecy regarding certain case documents, the FTA

Adani-IOC, GAIL among bidders for gas supply in 14 cities Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 25

In all 44 bids were received with Bengaluru being the most sought after and Andhra Pradesh/ Telengana faring poorly. Adani-IOC combine bid for Eranakulam, Bengaluru, Daman, Dadar and Nagar Haveli, Amritsar and Panipat. GAIL Gas Ltd, the city gas distribution arm of GAIL, bid for Bengaluru, Amritsar, Panipat,

Daman and Dadar and Nagar Haveli. Bengaluru got eight bids from firms like Adani-IOC, GAIL Gas, GSPC, HPCL and BPCL while Pune got two bids from Mahesh Infra and Maharashtra Natural Gas Ltd, they said,. Bid for the latest round of City Gas Distribution (CGD) licenses were originally due on 11 February but Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) in

January extended the deadline to May 12. On April 23, it extended bid deadline to July 10 and last month it further pushed it back to August 11. Bidders had been asked to quote the tariff they will charge for the pipeline network to be laid in the city and the compression charge for dispensing CNG (compressed natural gas) over the next 25 years. -PTI

(Federal Tax Administration) may refuse to allow a person entitled to appeal to inspect the corresponding files...." Swiss Federal Council decided in June this year to relax this key legislation, following an intense pressure from India and other countries probing cases of suspected tax crimes. The Swiss Parliament approved revision of this Act in March this year, while a referendum deadline for the proposed amendments expired on July 10, 2014. In reply to queries on the status of the new Act, a spokesperson for Switzerland's State Secretariat for International Financial Matters told PTI, "I can confirm

that the revised Federal Act on International Administrative Assistance in Tax Matters entered into force on August 1." However, the new Act explicitly mentions that the Swiss authorities would not consider a request if "it constitutes a fishing expedition" or "if it violates the principle of good faith, particularly if it is based on information obtained through a criminal offence under Swiss law." This would thwart India's attempts to seek information on the so-called HSBC list, which Switzerland alleges that Indian and other foreign authorities got hold of after a former bank employee stole data about customers. -PTI

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China invites India to join its Silk Road projects XIAN (China): Giving final touches to its most ambitious plan to build a wide network of new silk roads on land and seas to enhance global connectivity, China has invited India to join President Xi Jinping's pet project that would revive the ancient trade route and benefit the region. "From historical point of view India is the converging point of Maritime Silk road (MSR) and the ancient Silk Road on land. For more than 2,000 years India had very good exchanges with China through the passage of the South Silk Road," Gao Zhenting, Councilor, Department of International Economic Affairs, told PTI. "So in China we have a belief that China and India both placed the trail of silk roads and MSR and we both have benefited from the roads," said Gao, who oversees the Silk Roads projects that involves a maze of highways on land and port connectivity by sea. The projects were expected to

revive China's trade links specially its sagging exports besides globally enhancing its sphere of influence. Throughout the history of Silk

Road and Maritime Silk Road many scholars and businessmen from India visited China and still many Chinese remember the names of many of them and stories, he said.

Xi Jinping

Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on the matter. The House saw two adjournments on the issue during Question Hour as Congress created

Narendra Modi

ficed the interests of the poor at WTO and demanded a clarification from him in the House along with a discussion. Accusing him of "belittling" Parliament and "misinforming" people on the issue at a time when the House is in session, Congress members attacked Modi for "contradicting" his own Commerce

Xian houses the Wild Goose Pagoda, built in memory of Xuanzang's visit to India. "The Chinese government believes that India naturally is an important partner in this One belt and One Road," Gao said. "We are open to all friendly neighboring countries to participate in this one belt and one road but of course we will not force any one to join nor we will give up if someone is not taking part," he said. Gao denied the new projects were aimed at establishing China's influence, saying Beijing is not aiming to establish influence nor will it establish a new mechanism for the Silk Roads. -PTI

Tata-Singapore Airlines 'Vistara' set for Oct launch

Oppn targets PM in RS over statement on WTO NEW DELHI: Congress created uproar in Rajya Sabha and targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his remarks that the previous UPA government sacri-

Gao took a team of diplomats and journalists to showcase China's preparations to build the New Silk Road (NSR) from the historic city of Xian, once the flourishing capital of imperial China. The road enabled China's famous Buddhist scholar Xuanzang to visit India in 600 AD and return with treasure trove of Buddhist scriptures. According to the recent Encyclopaedia of 2000 years of cultural contacts between India and China, Xuanzang, an ardent Buddhist scholar, visited India traversing through the ancient Silk Road of Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Afghanistan and entered the undivided India.

uproar saying there were inconsistencies in government statements on WTO though Finance Minister Arun Jaitley asserted there was no contradiction. Modi, while addressing the BJP National Council on Saturday, had accused UPA of sacrificing the interests of the poor at WTO by signing an Agreement and claimed

that the new government had on the contrary stood firm on food security issue at the recent Geneva round of talks. Attacking Modi for his remarks, Congress member and former Commerce Minister Anand Sharma said, "We cannot allow a situation that Prime Minister of the country will try to belittle and misinform when the House is in session." "The charge against us is made by none other than the Prime Minister of India. It has to be clarified because it misleads the country...It is the Prime Minister of India who has contradicted his own Minister. He should come to the House and explain," he said. Digvijay Singh (Cong) joined him in questioning why the Prime Minister has contradicted his own Minister who claims there is no change in the government's stand at WTO. "The Prime Minister has made disparaging remarks against the previous government," he said, adding that the Commerce Minister has stated that the Government has not deviated from the previous government's stand. "He must explain. He is contradicting the Minister," he said, as the treasury benches reacted saying he cannot cast aspersions on the Prime Minister. -PTI

NEW DELHI: The Tata SonsSingapore Airlines joint venture here unveiled the brand name of its new airline 'Vistara', and said it is expected to launch operations by October with the first aircraft coming in by September. "We are in the last lap of the process of securing the Air Operator Permit (AOP of flying li-

fleet in five years. Yeoh was speaking at a ceremony to launch the new brand name, the logo and livery of the airline, along with Tata-SIA Airlines Chairman Prasad Menon and Board Directors Mukund Rajan and Swee Wah Mak. Asked about the route network of the new airline, the CEO said "we

Prasad Menon (fifth from right), chairman, Tata Singapore Airlines Limited with other officials of TSAL along with the crew at the launch of 'Vistara' in New Delhi.

cense). There are a series of approvals which we have to get to the satisfaction of DGCA," said Phee Teik Yeoh, the CEO of the start-up full-service airline 'Vistara'. To questions, he said that "we expect to get the first aircraft some time in September and by this calendar year, we would have five aircraft in our fleet". The Delhi-based airline has already decided to lease 20 Airbus A-320s, including seven A-320 Neo series planes which have the latest technology on board. The airline plans to have a 20-aircraft

are close to finalizing our route network. It will cover cities having a clear demand for full-service airline", but declined to share details. Earlier, sources had said the plan was to begin services in five cities and go up to 11 within a year of launch with 87 weekly flights. These would link Delhi with Mumbai, Bangalore, Goa, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Jammu, Srinagar, Patna and Chandigarh. Yeoh also parried several questions on the pricing strategy of the new carrier, saying the thrust now was to get the new airline "quickly off the ground"-PTI

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andhavgarh National Park is located around 195 km off Jabalpur and 210 km off Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh. Considered as the crown in the wildlife heritage of Madhya Pradesh, Bandhavgarh is known for the Royal Bengal Tigers, cheetals, leopard, gaur, sambhar, and many more faunal species. Bandhavgarh National Park is nestled in the Vindhya mountain range of Central India full of hills and ravines. Though, very small in comparison to Kanha or other parks of Madhya Pradesh, it hosts almost the same number of tigers or any other wildlife animal. Apart from tigers and leopards, Bandhavgarh is also extremely productive for medium-sized bison herds.

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Bandhavgarh came into existence as a national park in 1968 with a core area of 105 sq. km, which was later extended to include two adjoining Sal forests in 1986. Before becoming a national park, it was the game reserve of the Maharajas of Rewa. But due to loss of royal patronage, it remained neglected for a long time until the government declared it a national park to control rampant poaching in the area. Best time to visit: Summer starts here in April and continues till June. The temperature touches the high of around 42Â°C. But these are also the months when you can look forward to sighting tigers and leopards. December to February are the best months climate wise, while the weather is

cool and pleasant. The park is closed during the monsoon season, which also coincides with the breeding season, from June till November. Another reason for closure during this season is the torrential rainfall washing away most of the jungle tracks. Tourist attractions At Bandhavgarh you can find moist deciduous forest, as at Kanha National Park. At higher altitudes, the flora tends to move towards mixed forests. With the highest density of tigers, Bandhavgarh is one of

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the most important wildlife sanctuaries in India for the wildlife preservers and enthusiasts. There are more than 22 species of mammals and 250 species of birds. Common Langurs and Rhesus Macaque represent the primate group. Carnivores include the Asiatic Jackal, Bengal Fox, Sloth Bear, Ratel, Gray Mongoose, Striped Hyena, Jungle Cat, Leopard and Tiger. The artiodactyls frequently sighted are Wild Pigs, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Chausingha, Nilgai, Chinkara and Gaur. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 31

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German Tourism holds road shows in Kerala KOCHI: With Germany expecting double digit growth on tourist arrivals from India this year, the country's Tourism Board is wooing visitors from across the country, holding road shows and showcasing the destination. While last year, there were 6.15 lakh overnight visitors from India, a 5.4 per cent growth over the previous year, this year it was expecting 10-12 per cent growth over last year, Romit Theophilus, Director sales and Marketing, the German National Tourist office, India, told reporters. "We have ambitious goal for India. Last year there was a big economic crisis in India, dollar shot up and made trips expensive. This year we are expecting a 10-12 per cent growth than last year and by 2020 we are trying to hit 1.5 million overnight visitors from India," he said. As part of its multi city road shows, the German National Tourist Office (GNTO) organized Destination Germany India Pool road

show here last night, which received a good response from the travel trade, he said. This year, the board was investing 180,000 euros in India for pro-

Germany's attractions. There was 5.4 per cent growth (with 6,15,617 overnights from India) despite the devaluation of the Rupee and the economic scenario.

Germany witnessed 2,56,453 visitor overnights from India. Maritime Hotels and Cologne Tourism are part of the road show, which is to be held in few other

moting Germany as a destination. Over the years, the initiative of India pool has resulted in greater awareness of destination

"We are optimistic for 2014 and expect the growth rate to be back in double digits," he said. From January-May this year,

Indian cities as well. Presently, 50 per cent of visitors from India come to Germany for business, 25 per cent leisure

Gujarat eyes 18% growth in tourist arrivals MUMBAI: Aiming up to 18 per cent growth in the tourist footfall in Gujarat and promoting it as a global tourist destination, the State Tourism Corporation has planned to spend Rs 550 crore this financial year to upgrade in-

frastructure and public amenities. "We will continue to aggressively market Gujarat as a tourist destination in India as well as abroad. We have been witnessing 12-13 per cent growth in footfalls since last 2-3 years. This year

we are targeting for 17-18 per cent growth," Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL) Managing Director Sanjay Kaul told reporters here. The total tourist flow during the year 2013-14, to Gujarat was

287.88 lakh, according to government data. "Of the total arrivals, 10 per cent are international tourists. Domestic tourism over the years has been out pacing the international tourism growth in the country and

we strongly believe that if domestic tourism grows then international tourism will automatically flow in," he said. The state government has lined up Rs 550 crore to further improve public amenities, like parking, public toilets, provision of safe drinking water, food kiosks among others, he said adding that in Saputara, a lake front is being developed, which is a large project. Besides infrastructure, the government is also promoting festivals to attract tourists in the state via Mango festival, Monsoon festival, Tarnetar fair, Navratri festival and The Rann Utsav. "We have an array of festivals, beginning with the Mango Festival in May and ending with the International Kite Festival in January. In between we have four other festivals. This year we are planning to introduce one more festival, the Beach festival in December," he said. The Beach festival will be organized in Mandvi in Kutch and Thital in Valsad, Kaul added. "Moreover, we have also decided to extend the duration of Rann Utsav to three months from this year's one month," he said. -PTI

and 25 per cent MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions). Munich, Cologne, Frankfurt and Berlin are among the cities people visit, Gregor Gosciniak, Head of Marketing, Cologne Tourist board, said. Cologne, the 2000year-old city, is famous for its cathedral, chocolates and perfumes. Pointing out that Germany was not an expensive destination, LeRoy Sheppard, Director of Sales, Maritim Hotels said there are 3 star hotels charging Rs 10,000 for three nights and Rs 1.40 lakh for seven nights, he said. There are 1,600 Indian restaurants all over Germany. The most important source market for Germany's inbound tourism industry is the Netherlands. Switzerland now follows in second place, ahead of the US, which is the largest overseas market. In Asia, major growth markets such as China, India and Gulf countries offer huge potential for Destination Germany, they said. -PTI

Direct Air Seychelles flights from India soon MUMBAI: To smoothen communication between the two countries and deepen tourism ties, Air Seychelles will soon begin direct flights between Mumbai and Seychelles, Seychelles Tourism and Culture Minister Alain St Ange has said. The service is likely to start by end of this year. "At present there is no direct flight from India to Seychelles. One

Seychelles high on the destination list. In Q1 of 2014, saw a 15 per cent growth in arrivals from India compared to first quarter of last year and we expect this upward trend to continue in 2014 and 2015," he said. Ange said there were also talks to include India's Andaman Islands in the Indian Ocean Vanilla Islands Regional Organization that in-

can reach Seychelles from India via Abu Dhabi, Dubai or Colombo (Sri Lanka). We had a meeting with the Indian minister and key officials in New Delhi on this issue. We expect the direct flights from Mumbai to Seychelles thrice a week to begin from December this year," Ange told reporters here. The multiple flights in a week will cover the distance in around four hours. The increased association, the minister said, is expected to further boost travel trade between the two countries. "With increased awareness, India's travel trade community will be able to place

cludes- Islands of Comoros, La Reunion, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mayotte, the Seychelles and Sri Lakna as member islands. "We position the Indian Ocean region as a quality world-class holiday destination and promote inter-island packages to help increase visitor numbers to member destinations. India has also shown interest to join the Indian Ocean Vanilla Islands Regional Organization," he said. Seychelles is mainly targeting honeymoon, luxury, adventure and experiential travelers from Delhi and Mumbai. -PTI

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Bandhavgarh National Park Crown in the wildlife heritage of Madhya Pradesh Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 29

Mammals such as Dhole, the small Indian Civet, Palm Squirrel and Lesser Bandicoot Rat are seen occasionally. Among the herbivores, Gaur is the only coarse feeder There are two main ways of getting about in the park - in a motor vehicle or on elephant back. Many of the animals are now accustomed

to both; even so, it is best to talk quietly and not make rapid movements. Jeep safaris are best undertaken from dawn until about 10am and from about 4pm until dusk, as the animals are most active during these periods. A Forest Department guide must always accompany you. This guide will be able to direct you and point out wildlife. Elephants are used every morning by the Forest Department for tiger- tracking. If a tiger is found, then the elephant will take you directly to the tiger either from the lodge or from a nearby point reached by jeep/car. The park is also home of the white (albino) tiger. There are interesting cave shrines scattered around the park, with Brahmi inscriptions dating from the first century B.C. Bandhavgarh Fort: Built by the Maharajas of Rewa, Bandhavgarh Fort is located well within the Bandhavgarh National Park. It is believed to be 2,000 years old. The fort is situated at an altitude of 800 m and gives a panoramic view of the wildlife preserve as well as surrounding countryside. There is a small stream call Charganga that

flows besides the fort. In the way to the fort you can also see a number of statues and temples, the most famous of all is a rock-cut statue of Lord Vishnu. Places around: There are very few places around Bandhavgarh that offer much in the way of excursion. Katani and Umaria are two important urban habitations around Bandhavgarh National Park. Major tourist attractions in

the region include world-famous temples of Khajuraho, Jabalpur - a major business center of Madhya Pradesh and Bheraghat on the river Narmada. How to reach Road - Bandhavgarh is located equidistance from the city of Jabalpur and world famous tourist spot of Khajuraho. You can reach Bandhavgarh by using roads from both these places. Rail - Katni at a distance of 120 km on the South-Eastern Railways is the ideal railway connection for reaching Bandhavgarh.

Need for Punjab-Bulgaria partnership in tourism CHANDIGARH: Punjab Assembly Speaker Charanjit Singh Atwal has advocated a joint venture between Bulgaria and Punjab to promote tourism and food processing industry. Atwal expressed this desire during a meeting with a delegation from Bulgaria led by its Ambassador Petko Doykov, who called on him at his office in Punjab Assembly. The visiting delegation took a round of the Assembly and collected information pertaining to the working of Parliamentary process in the state Assembly, a Punjab Government release said here. Describing Punjab as the lead-

Petko Doykov

ing agrarian state of the country, Atwal told the delegation that there was ample of scope to jointly venture in the field of tourism promotion and food processing. The Speaker apprised the delegation about policies and programs of the Punjab Government for the welfare of people in the state. Terming the visit as a memorable one, Doykov said Bulgaria was keen to co-operate with states of India to mutually benefit the industry and tourism sector.-PTI

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Stem cell behavior of human bowel uncovered LONDON: For the first time, scientists have uncovered stem cell behavior of human bowel, providing vital clues about the earliest stages in bowel cancer development. The study, led by Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), discovered how many stem cells exist within the human bowel and how they behave and evolve over time. It was found that within a healthy bowel, stem cells are in constant competition with each other for survival and only a certain number of stem cells can exist within one area at a time (referred to as the 'stem cell niche'). However, when investigating stem cells in early tumors, the researchers saw increased numbers of stem cells within each area as well as intensified competition for survival, suggesting a link between stem cell activity and bowel cancer development. The study involved studying stem cells directly within the human body using a specially developed 'toolkit'. The toolkit worked by measuring random mutations that naturally accrue in ageing stem cells. The random mutations recorded how the stem cells had behaved, similarly to how the rings on a tree trunk record how a tree grew over time. -PTI

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Tata AIG launches 3 new health products

MUMBAI: Tata AIG General Insurance Company has launched three new health insurance products - MediPlus, MediSenior and MediRaksha. While MediPlus is a smart and affordable top-up health Policy, MediSenior is a health cover for senior customers and MediRaksha is a basic medical insurance plan aimed at residents in the semi-urban and rural locations and for the economically backward sections. "With the ever-rising costs of healthcare services and rising inflation, senior citizens are grappling to keep up with basic medical expenses. "These new plans are a comprehensive offering with a unique set of features that distinguishes itself from the existing gamut of health insurance products currently available for all," Tata AIG General Insurance managing director and chief executive KK Mishra told PTI. "With empathy and trust being the hallmark of the company, we will continue to provide world class services in health and mediclaim space," he added. -PTI

Health Science

New handheld device to diagnose skin cancer Details on Page 36

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Medicaid expansion talk key in Florida Governor race FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla.: Expanding Medicaid to an additional 1 million Floridians under President Barack Obama's new health law is turning into one of the biggest issues of this year's gubernatorial race. Former Gov. Charlie Crist brings up the topic on most campaign stops and says one of the first things he'll do if elected is call a special session to expand Medicaid. His opponent, incumbent Republican Gov. Rick Scott, seems to be waning in his support. Scott says he's open to taking roughly $51 billion over the next decade from the federal government, but only as long as Florida taxpayers aren't left with the bill. In a surprise move two years ago, Scott made an emotional speech, saying that Medicaid expansion was a compassionate, common-sense choice. But he never put his full political weight behind the issue and the Legislature rejected expansion under the Affordable Care Act. Scott has since backed away from his position, telling MSNBC earlier this year: ``I said while the federal government is going to pay 100 percent, I won't stand in

the way of the Legislature wanting to do more. But the Legislature made the decision ... not to go forward.'' A spokesman for Scott said that the governor's position has

about Florida families who deal with the challenges his family faced growing up ... Gov. Scott wants to provide the most people possible with access to high quality, affordable care,'' Scott

Gov. Rick Scott and presumptive Democratic nominee Charlie Crist are on opposite sides of the state Medicaid issue.

not changed, but emphasized he believes Florida should only expand Medicaid if it does not cost state taxpayers. ``The governor often thinks

spokesman Greg Blair said in a statement. Earlier this week, Crist, a Republican-turned-Democrat, said he would work with the GOP-

controlled Legislature and urge them ``to forget about the party affiliations and do what's right for our fellow Floridians ... we can get it done and we owe it to them.'' Crist also said he'd use any tools at his disposal, adding he's not afraid to use the budget lineitem veto if necessary. Expanding Medicaid has also been politically divisive between the Sunshine State and the federal government. Scott needed approval from federal health officials to expand a Medicaid privatization program. Lengthy negotiation ensued. Some experts predicted that if the feds approved the program that Scott would come out in favor of Medicaid expansion - a tenet of Obama's health law. The feds approved statewide privatization, a victory for state Republicans, but Medicaid expansion was virtually a non-starter during this past Legislative session. Scott's spokesman lauded Florida's Medicaid privatization program as historic and said Medicaid grew ``at three and a half times our general revenue and Charlie Crist did nothing to help make it more sustainable when he was in office.'' -AP

Apollo Hospitals to expand footprint KOLKATA: Apollo Hospitals Ltd is actively looking at expansion with the hub and spoke model and harnessing the telemedicine technology. "In a first of its kind initiative, Apollo Hospitals has introduced eICU, a remote ICU monitoring system in Chennai and Hyderabad hospitals. "We are planning to introduce the same in Kolkata which will allow us to expand in smaller towns and cities of eastern region," Apollo Hospitals Group (eastern region) CEO Rupali Basu told PTI. "The eICU system will help the Kolkata hospital to act as a hub and the telemedicine centers at districts and smaller

towns will act as spoke offering intensive care," she added. Apollo chief information officer Arvind Sivaramkrishnan said the tentative cost to implement the

in remote locations. At present, telemedicine centers were mostly utilized as teleconsultation centers but in near future these centers could be up-

eICU was less than Rs 10 crore for monitoring around 500 beds

graded to offer intensive care with the help of specialized doc-

tors with live monitoring and advice by sitting at a remote location. Apollo Group manages 8,600 beds across 50 hospitals and has 150 telemedicine centers. "We have 28 telemedicine centers in the eastern region and once the eICU system is installed at Kolkata, we will expand rapidly in the eastern region by the hub and spoke model," Basu said. The eICU technology allows a remote intensivist to interact with a patient at ICU and part of the care team with a high definition camera, medical data monitoring system and an Audi-Visual module for discussion with the bedside staff. -PTI

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Illinois to hold 3 town halls New hand-held device to on medical marijuana diagnose skin cancer CHICAGO: As Illinois' new medical marijuana program gets underway, potential patients, growers and retailers have questions. State officials plan to hold three town hall meetings across Illinois to provide answers, particularly about the application process, which starts next month. Multiple sclerosis patient Marla Levi of Buffalo Grove plans to apply for the re-

The Illinois law doesn't allow patients to grow their own marijuana. A limited number of cultivation permits will be issued to businesses around the state. Growers and retailers are still pacing at the starting line quired ID card so she can buy marijuana legally from a state-approved dispensary. She's found that the drug helps relieve the rigidity in her legs, she said. She wants to

attend one of the meetings to get more information. ``This is my first question: When will I actually be able to have medical marijuana in my hands?'' Levi said. The best guess from state officials is sometime next year. The Illinois law doesn't allow patients to grow their own marijuana. A limited number of cultivation permits will be issued to businesses around the state. Growers and retailers are still pacing at the starting line, awaiting the opening of a competitive two-week application process, expected to start Sept. 8. The entrepreneurs got a hint at the scoring process when state officials posted guidelines on the program's website. Dispensary applicants, for example, can get up to 1,000 points for required documentation of their plans for business, security, recordkeeping, financial disclosures and an optional bonus section for planning scientific studies, providing benefit to the local community or fighting substance abuse. The first town hall meeting will be on August 14 in the southern Illinois city of Collinsville, according to the state program's website. -AP

WASHINGTON: Researchers have developed a hand-held device that uses lasers and sound waves and may change the way doctors treat and diagnose melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. The device is the first that can be used directly on a patient and accurately measure how deep a melanoma tumor extends into the skin, providing valuable information for treatment, diagnosis or prognosis. The thicker the melanoma tumor, the more likely it will spread and the deadlier it becomes, said dermatologist Lynn Cornelius, one of the study's co-authors at Washington University in St Louis. Being able to measure the depth of the tumor in vivo enables doctors to determine prognoses more accurately potentially at the time of initial evaluation - and plan treatments and surgeries accordingly. Current methods can't directly measure a patient's tumor very well. Because skin scatters light, high-resolution optical techniques don't reach deep enough. "None are really sufficient to provide the two to four millimeter penetration that's at least required for melanoma diagnosis, prognosis or surgical planning," said engineer Lihong Wang, another coauthor of the study. Recently, researchers including Wang have applied an approach called photoacoustic microscopy, which can accurately measure melanoma tumors directly on a patient's skin - thus allowing doctors to avoid uncertainty in some circumstances. The technique relies on the photoacoustic effect, in which light is converted into vibrations. In the case of the new device, a laser beam shines into the

skin at the site of a tumor. Melanin, the skin pigment that's also in tumors, absorbs the light, whose energy is transferred into high-frequency acoustic waves. Unlike light, acoustic waves don't scatter as much when traveling through skin. Tumor cells will produce more melanin than the surrounding healthy skin cells, and

the acoustic waves can be used to map the entire tumor with high resolution. The device has a detector that can then turn the acoustic signal into a three-dimensional image on a screen. The researchers tested their device on both artificial tumors made of black gelatin and on real ones in live mice, showing that the instrument could accurately measure the depths of tumors - and do it in living tissue. Cornelius said the tool can measure a tumor's entire volume - something that's never been possible with melanoma. If researchers can determine how the volume relates to cancer outcomes, then this tool could give doctors a new type of measurement for diagnosis and prognosis. The study is published in The Optical Society's (OSA) journal Optics Letters. PTI

NHRC notice to govt on 'shortage' of doctors NEW DELHI: National Human Rights Commission has issued a notice and sought report from the Union Health Ministry over "acute shortage" of doctors and other staff in premier hospitals, including the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), in the national capital. The notice was issued after the commission took suo motu cognizance of a media report that the Central government has admitted that there is an acute shortage of doctors and specialists in its medical units, according to an NHRC statement. "As many as 223 posts of doctors, 287 posts of nurses and 692 posts of para-medi-

cal and technical staff are currently vacant in premier institutes, including All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Safdarjung Hospital, Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, Lady Harding Medical College and associated hospitals," the statement said. The commission has observed that it is the duty of the government to provide medical facilities to its citizens for a healthy life and the contents of the media report, if true, raise a serious issue of violation of human rights. It has issued a notice to the Union Health Secretary, calling for an action-taken report within four weeks. -PTI

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Pharma industry for dialogue on price controls MUMBAI: After failing to get a stay order from Delhi High Court on the latest round of drug price control order, the pharma industry has called for a dialogue with the regulators to resolve the row, saying such issues are best ironed out through dialogues than in court rooms. "I think unless there is dialogue with the appropriate authorities, we are going to run into these kind of issues again. These issues are not to be settled in court rooms," a senior official of Organization of Pharmaceutical Producers of India (OPPI), who did

not wish to be named, said on the sidelines of an event here. The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) had on July 10 brought over 108 non-scheduled drugs under price control regime as per paragraph 19 of the DPCO (drug price control order). The order had brought in as many as 108 anti-diabetic formulation packs and cardiovascular formulation packs under price control. This has disappointed the pharma industry. Following this, the Indian Pharmaceuti-

Natural light in office boosts employees' health WASHINGTON: Employees with more light exposure at their workplace have longer sleep duration, better sleep quality, more physical activity and improved quality of life, according to a new study. The study from Northwestern Medicine and the University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign highlights the importance of exposure to natural light to employee health and the priority architectural designs of office environments should place on natural daylight exposure for workers. Employees with windows in the workplace received 173 per cent more white light exposure during work hours and slept an average of 46 minutes more per night than employees who did not have the natural light exposure in the workplace. There also was a trend for workers in offices with windows to have more physi-

cal activity than those without windows. Workers without windows reported poorer scores than their counterparts on quality of life measures related to physical problems and vitality, as well as poorer outcomes on measures of overall sleep quality and sleep disturbances. "There is increasing evidence that exposure to light, during the day, particularly in the morning, is beneficial to your health via its effects on mood, alertness and metabolism," said senior study author Phyllis Zee, a Northwestern Medicine neurologist and sleep specialist. "Workers are a group at risk because they are typically indoors often without access to natural or even artificial bright light for the entire day. The study results confirm that light during the natural daylight hours has powerful effects on health," Zee said.-PTI

Revive 'service before self' spirit: Vardhan NEW DELHI: The Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has sought cooperation of doctors to raise awareness on lifestyle fault lines at the root of non-communicable diseases like hypertension, diabetes and

cancer, and also to launch drives against preventable deaths of infants and new mothers. "The social mobilization achieved for pulse polio is unprecedented in terms of

scale and reach. This was possible because people observed the professional commitment of doctors at the heart of the mission. "I hope to revive this spirit in the coming months when I launch drives against preventable deaths of infants, children and new mothers. "I need the cooperation of doctors to raise awareness on lifestyle fault lines at the root of non-communicable diseases like hypertension, coronary artery disease, diabetes and cancer," Vardhan said as he felicitated the Delhi Medical Association (DMA) on completing 100 glorious years of service to the people of Delhi and India. Vardhan said he would like to see DMA reviving its social mission and contributing to the government's 'Health for All' objective. "I would like to involve all sections of society in achieving the United Nations Millennium Development Goals," he said. "I urge the DMA to hold workshops for young doctors where they should be instructed on rational prescription of drugs and generic medicines. Further I appeal to medical community to revive 'service before self' spirit. -PTI

cal Alliance (IPA) and the OPPI, challenged the order in the Bombay and Delhi high courts, respectively. While the Delhi High Court has refused to entertain the OPPI petition seeking a stay on the

"The pharma industry is more than willing to partner with the government to achieve the vision of healthcare access for all. "Focus on human resource augmenta-

The National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) had on July 10 brought over 108 non-scheduled drugs under price control regime as per paragraph 19 of the DPCO (drug price control order). The order had brought in as many as 108 anti-diabetic formulation packs and cardiovascular formulation packs under price control DPCO, the Bombay HC is yet to hear the IPA plea. The Delhi High Court had on August 1 refused to stay NPPA's July 10 order fixing prices of 108 non-scheduled drugs, but sought responses from the pricing authority by September 29, when it will hear the petition. Significantly, the Delhi HC observed that paragraph 19 of the 2013 DPCO does not restrict price fixation to only essential drugs. Paragraph 19 of DPCO, 2013, authorizes the NPPA in extraordinary circumstances, if it considers necessary so to do in public interest, to fix the ceiling price or retail price of any drug for such period as it deems fit, the court had said.

tion, last-mile availability of medicines and stronger healthcare distribution will catalyze access to healthcare," OPPI president and Sanofi India managing director Shailesh Ayyangar said. OPPI Director General Ranjana Smetacek joined in saying, "Understanding the challenge is critical to achieving universal healthcare access and finding sustainable solutions. The government needs to lead the way in collaborating with the industry and all stakeholders. "We need holistic solutions and all the stakeholders will have a role to play and the industry is willing to step forward and do its part." -PTI

TOP TEN HINDI FILM SONGS

1 Samjhawan: Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania 2 Saturday Saturday: Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania 3 Aaj Phir: Hate Story 2 38 India Post

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anbir Kapoor is on his way to London to meet Katrina Kaif’s mother. He will make a short trip to London in between his hectic schedule to discuss marriage matters with Katrina Kaif’s mother. As per report, marriage is on the cards and the discussion is on. The actor is shooting in Corsica with ex-girlfriend and actress Deepika Padukone for Imtiaz Ali’s ‘Tamasha’ and he might take a short break from work to make a trip to London. Ranbir is very serious about Katrina and does not want to put his relationship in risk by delaying the commitment issue. Katrina Kaif has already met Ranbir’s parents, Neetu and Rishi Kapoor formally in India and now its Ranbir’s turn. Ranbir has also introduced Kat to his grandmother Krishna Raj. Moreover, there were also reports that Katrina would soon move with Ranbir into his new furnished house.

4 Jumme Ki Raat: Kick 5 Johnny Johnny: Entertainment 6 Hangover: Kick 7 Galliyan: Ek Villain 8 Veerey Di Wedding: Entertainment 9 Banjaara: Ek Villain 10 Yaar Naa Miley: Kick

rrfan Khan, who has made his presence felt in Hollywood with some big projects, feels the time has come when Indian films and filmmakers start inspiring the world with their talent and stories. "We keep looking to Hollywood cinema for inspirations. But I feel, it is time that we start inspiring them as we have great stories and talented people here," Irrfan told reporters at the DVD launch of Ritesh Batra's The Lunchbox. The 47-year-old actor said he was happy for his The Lunchbox co-star Nimrat Kaur, who will feature in American TV series Homeland. "I have come to know that Nimrat is doing Homeland, it is a great achievement. When you go to other countries, the working atmosphere... the set up is different from what we do here. It is altogether a different experience," he said. Irrfan's next Hollywood venture is the fourth installment of the hit Jurassic Park franchise, titled Jurassic World. He will be seen next with Kangana Ranaut in director Sai Kabir's next Divine Lovers.

fter a long time, Hrishita Bhatt will be seen as a main lead in the upcoming film "Bhai Ka Maal Hai," written and directed by Anil Goyal. Her last film was 'Anuradha' which was released in the month of February. "I have signed this film after a big gap; it has been around 8-10 months since I haven't had any shooting schedule so, yes, I am very excited and bit nervous" said Hrishita." When folks asked her the cause for such silence, the pretty starlet said that right now she is busy with close to 3-4 projects and she has been busy shuttling between them. However, she maintained that nothing can be revealed at this moment. Director Anil Goyal said "Since Hrishita Bhatt came back in this B-world after a long period of time, so I am very excited to work on this project with her."

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Realty Tidbits

Realtors welcome RBI move on liquidity NEW DELHI: Real estate developers and property consultants have welcomed the RBI decision to cut statutory liquidity ratio (SLR), saying this would enable banks to lend more to industry, including cashstarved realty sector. However, developers demanded easing of interest rates to boost housing sales. RBI decided to keep the key policy rate unchanged but slashed statutory liquidity ratio (SLR) by 0.5 per cent to unlock about Rs 40,000 crore into the system. "The RBI's move to cut SLR by 50 basis points to 22 per cent will give banks more headroom to lend and thereby spur lending in future. However, the much anticipated cut in rates would have been more appropriate at this juncture," Omaxe CEO Mohit Goel said in a statement. Property consultant Cushman & Wakefield Executive Managing DirectorSouth Asia Sanjay Dutt said the reduction in SLR clearly indicates that the central bank is keen on freeing up more money for lending, which is positive for realty firms. In the absence of a clear direction of interest rate tapering, Dutt said the developers would be cautious in the upcoming festive season. "In our assessment, once interest rates come off its current levels, fresh demand will be generated for housing sales, leading companies to step up launches," he added. JLL India Chairman and Country Head Anuj Puri said the additional funds allocated in the hands of commercial banks through a SLR cut is positive for both infrastructure and realty sectors. -PTI

Â&#x201E; Indian fined for rat-infested property in UK LONDON: An Indian-origin landlord in the UK has been slapped with a 14,000 pound fine after his tenants were found living in his rat-infested property in Wolverhampton. Ranjeev Singh Sahota was found guilty of leaving the home in a hazardous condition for its occupants at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court in the West Midlands region of England. Describing the case as one of the worst he had ever seen, chair of the bench Stephen Edwards said: "The property was in a dangerous state with numerous hazards. "These were categorized by the council and sufficient warning was given to the defendant to put the property right. He chose not to do so. This was willful not neglect. There was significant hazard and risk to the occupiers to make these fines appropriate." According to a report in the 'Express & Star' regional newspaper, Sahota failed to attend the hearing on July 22 and was found guilty in his absence of breaching an Emergency Prohibition Order, failing to comply with an Improvement Notice, failing to supply documentation to the local authority and failing to return a requisition in relation to interest in land. -PTI

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Sebi bars Viswas from illegally collecting funds MUMBAI: Clamping down on an unauthorized real estate investment scheme, Sebi has restricted Viswas Real Estates and Infrastructures India and its directors from raising funds from investors. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) found that the Hyderabad-based firm had mobilized funds from public by promising them plots of land in its real estate ventures without necessary approvals from Sebi. -PTI

Realtors keep off govt's low-cost housing owing to poor returns MUMBAI: The government's vision of "housing for all by 2022" may turn out to be an uphill task with developers keeping off

low-cost housing projects citing regulatory hurdles, high land cost and low returns making such projects "unaffordable". At present, there is a shortage of 187.80 lakh dwelling units in urban areas, but this is not attracting developers to take up lowcost units as the sector is facing many challenges on the land acquisition front, soaring land and material cost and liquidity issues, say experts. "The cost of project has significantly increased due to the delays caused which makes it unaffordable. Besides, increasing cost of land makes such projects economically less viable," PwC associate director Bhairav Dalal told PTI. According to official data, 2,20,741 houses have been built in urban areas during the past three years under different programs like the Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM), the Rajiv Awas Yojana (RAY) and affordable housing in partnership. "Developing a low-cost housing project in the current market conditions is challenging given the number of approvals needed before starting a project which increases the overall cost. Margins are very less, maximum 10 per cent, in this segment, but the costs are high which makes it unaffordable," Kolte-Patil Developers chief executive Sujay Kalele told PTI. On the liquidity front, he said, banks are already reluctant to fund realty projects and private equity funding is costly. "Banks lend at around 18 per cent while PEs expect returns of up to 23 per cent. Thus in a project which is costlier than its returns, financing them becomes a major challenge," Kalele added. To attract foreign investors, the government has reduced built-up area threshold

from 50,000 sqm to 20,000 sqm and halved the minimum foreign direct investment limit to USD 5 million in the Budget. But only a few prominent real estate developers have entered the segment, including HDIL, Tata Housing, Purvankara, Value Budget Housing Corporation, Shapoorji Pallonji and Mahindra Lifespaces, among others. Voicing similar concerns, Puranik Developers managing director

Shailesh Puranik said, "If you have to develop a low cost housing project and yet expect good returns, then you will have to build large volumes. If I expect to gain similar returns from what I will get from middle or high-income projects, I will have to create large volumes." While the mid and high-income apartment may fetch around Rs 7,000-10,000 per sqft, a low-cost house will give around Rs 3,000 per sqft. "Be it a low-cost project or mid or highincome, the cost incurred in buying land and construction is same, but the returns are very low," he added. However, regulatory reforms like single window clearances and specific tax holidays will provide some incentive to developers as their returns would be better, Dalal added. -PTI

In Brief New Mexico border agents arrest Cuban national LAS CRUCES, N.M.: Authorities say a convicted sex offender from Nevada has been arrested in southern New Mexico near the border for having fraudulent immigration documents. The Las Cruces Sun-News reported that Alfredo C. LabradaGomez, a Cuban national, was caught by Las Cruces-area Border Patrol agents conducting a routine immigration bus check. According to a Border Patrol news release, agents checking passengers saw Labrada-Gomez had a permanent resident card that was missing some embedded security features. Agents discovered LabradaGomez was arrested several times and convicted of child sex abuse in Nevada. Court records show he also had convictions for batter and felony firearm possession. Labrada-Gomez is being held in the Otero County Prison Facility and will be prosecuted for immigration-related offenses. -AP

Â&#x201E; Australia orders probe into immigration fraud SYDNEY: Australia's national security is being compromised by wide-scale visa rorting and migration rackets, including one involving a facilitator with suspected Pakistan terrorist links, media reports have said, prompting an urgent probe into the claims. Hundreds of pages of leaked confidential departmental documents obtained by Fairfax Media show that Australia's national security is being compromised by visa rorting and migration rackets. Rampant visa fraud and migration crime involving people flying into Australia are going unchecked while the government focuses on stopping boats, according to the secret government files detailing entrenched Immigration Department failings. The confidential Immigration Department files show repeated internal warnings over several years that widespread visa fraud is "business as usual yet remains largely untreated" because the department's investigation and enforcement capacity has collapsed, the report said. Secret departmental operations have estimated that as many as nine in 10 skilled migrant visas may be fraudulent, while an internal inquiry into Afghan visa applicants in 2012 assessed that more than 90 per cent of cases contained "fraud of some type" and raised "people smuggling, identity fraud, suspected child trafficking and national security implications", Fairfax said.-PTI

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Alaska GOP candidates clash on immigration Details on page 41

Law on visa curbs on Indian IT biz may hit efforts on US ties NEW DELHI: Concerned over US immigration bill, India has said any law that seeks to selectively apply visa restrictions on Indian IT businesses may impact the efforts to strengthen bilateral economic ties. United States Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Bill, 2013 has not yet been enacted. The Bill seeks to deny access to visas or place additional visa related restrictions including higher fees. Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that these restrictions, including language negatively impacts Indian companies on important issues such as non-displacement and wage level classification. This is not only discriminatory but also creates an unequal playing field for Indian IT companies, she said. "Any legislation that seeks to selectively apply visa related restriction only against Indian IT business interest in the US would not be in accord with the spirit of deepening strategic partnership

between the two countries and may impact on the common efforts to strengthen economic and trade

reply to the Lok Sabha. India's concerns have been conveyed to the US side at Minis-

Commerce and industry minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that these restrictions, including language negatively impacts Indian companies on important issues such as non-displacement and wage level classification

cooperation that the governments of the two countries are actively pursuing," she said in a written

terial levels during the recent meetings of Homeland Security Dialogue in May 2013, Strategic Dia-

logue in June 2013, and at the CEOs Forum in July 2013 by Home Minister, Finance Minister, Commerce & Industry Minister and External Affairs Minister. "Prime Minister also raised this issue with the US President in their meeting in Washington DC on 27 September 2013 and requested that the US Administration should work with the US Congress to address concerns of the Indian IT industry," she said. The issue has also been raised with US Secretary of State during his recent visit to India in July. Replying to a separate question, she said India has decided not to participate in the US International Trade Commission as domestic policy formulation is a country's sovereign right. India has taken cognizance of the "unilateral investigations" launched by USITC, a quasi-judicial independent US federal agency, to examine a wide range of Indian policies that discriminate against US trade and investment. The bilateral trade between the countries stood at USD 61.5 billion in 2013-14. -PTI

Indian suspects flee after Visa fraud MELBOURNE: An Indian woman, a former employee of the Australian immigration department who reportedly fled to India along with her husband with over one million dollars, was involved in running an illegal migration racket in the country, according to a media report. Reetika Ajjan and her spouse Jeetender fled with the money three days after their home was raided by Australian authorities in 2011, according to Fairfax report. The couple was traced down by Fairfax Media as living in New Delhi. The report said that Ajjan was involved in running a three million dollar migration racket which was run by her husband and a licensed migration agent

Mahimn Sodhani. It said that Ajjan was allegedly supplying sensitive government information and equipment to migration business run by her husband and Sodhani which resulted

in over 1000 fraudulent visa applications. She could face fraud, theft and proceeds-of-crime charges in Australia, according to the report. The couple wired 1.2 million

Reetika Ajjan and her husband Jeetender fled Australia after immigration agents raided their home

dollars to India, including one transfer of 543,000 dollars made by Ajjan. "The AFP (Australian Federal Police) is trying to repatriate these funds as part of proceeds of crime referral, but given the funds were sent to India, this may be difficult to achieve," the report said, citing a leaked file. The couple managed to flee Australia as Immigration Department failed to seize passports or ensure a criminal charge against them quickly. The latest scam has surfaced after Immigration Minister Scott Morrison sought an urgent report from his department about allegations of widespread visa fraud and migration crime. Cont'd on Page 41

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Alaska GOP candidates clash on immigration ANCHORAGE, Alaska: Thousands of miles from the U.SMexico border, three Republicans vying for their party's nomination for U.S. Senate in Alaska clashed on immigration in a televised debate ahead of the Aug. 19 primary. Both former Alaska Attorney General Dan Sullivan and Lt. Gov Mead Treadwell refused to sign a pledge offered by tea party favorite Joe Miller to oppose all efforts at "amnesty" for people here illegally if elected to the U.S. Senate, with Treadwell chastising Miller for sending out a mailer on immigration featuring menacing Hispanic gang members. Miller, in turn, noted that several of Sullivan's backers, like GOP strategist Karl Rove, favor allowing many of the 11 million immigrants in the country to eventually become citizens. "It's because it's the truth," Miller said when challenged about the pictures on the flier. "This is real-world stuff." Miller, an attorney who won the 2010 Republican Senate nomina-

phasizing immigration as he tries to break out of what most observers believe is third place in the heated primary fight. He has been highlighting his support from

Alaska Republican U.S. Senate candidates Joe Miller left, Dan Sullivan, middle, and Mead Teadwell greet before a live televised debate Sunday, Aug. 10, in Anchorage, Alaska.

Maricopa County, Arizona, Sheriff Joe Arpaio, a well-known immigration hardliner. Miller was also the only one of the three candidates who refused to commit to endorsing the winner of the Republican primary. That

Miller was also the only one of the three candidates who refused to commit to endorsing the winner of the Republican primary. That will continue to stoke speculation that he could run on a third-party ticket tion but lost to Sen. Lisa Murkowski when she bested him in a general election write-in campaign, has been increasingly em-

November election to incumbent Democrat Sen. Mark Begich. The candidates also clashed over the economic stimulus, gun rights and campaign spending.

will continue to stoke speculation that he could run on a third-party ticket should he lose the primary, which could effectively hand the

Sullivan has raised almost four times as much money as Treadwell and has a super PAC backing him, enabling him to bombard the airwaves with advertising. Begich and his super PAC have also jumped into the fight, attacking Sullivan over his roughly sevenyear absence from the state, when he was in Washington, D.C., working in the administration of President George W. Bush and serving with the military overseas. Republicans need to net six Senate seats to win control of the chamber in November. Sullivan stressed the need for the GOP to regain power in Washington, focusing, as befits his presumed front-runner status, on Begich rather than his primary foes.

Indian suspects flee after Visa fraud Cont'd from Page 40

Morrison, in a statement, said the reports regarding serious integrity matters in our immigration program relate to alleged events that occurred under the previous government. "The Abbott Government will address weaknesses in the system wherever it is required with the same resolve we have shown in stopping the boats," he said. "The government takes its responsibilities to ensure the integ-

rity of our immigration program very seriously. That is why we have taken actions to protect the

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The reports regarding serious integrity matters in our immigration program relate to alleged events that occurred under the previous governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

integrity of our immigration program whether through our border protection operations, closing loopholes in the system, or increasing the level of compliance activity across various visa categories including 457s." He said that "given the government's strong commitment in this area, I have sought an urgent report from my department on these matters and will consider what further action is then necessary after receiving this initial response." -PTI

"Our country is fundamentally going in the wrong direction," said Sullivan, who is also a lieutenant colonel in the Marine Reserves. "The best way to change this is to beat Mark Begich and retire Harry Reid." Treadwell stressed his 40 years in Alaska and said Sullivan didn't have enough experience to win in November. "Dollars don't vote here in Alaska, people do," he said in a dig at Sullivan's financial backers, "and I ask you to remember that we can't be bought." Sullivan chided Treadwell for sitting on the board of a company that sold equipment to the federal government for stimulus projects. Treadwell responded that there was nothing wrong with the business selling to the federal government and noted that the paint-supply company owned by Sullivan's

family also received contracts under the stimulus. Miller, meanwhile, adopted a tone of bemusement, saying that Treadwell had adopted so many of his positions from his failed 2010 bid that he wondered if the lieutenant governor would show up with a beard, a reference to Miller's facial hair. He noted he was the only non-millionaire in the race and boasted of building his own house in the Alaska interior and feeding his family with the fish he caught in the state's rich waters. On immigration, all three candidates bashed the Obama administration for failing to secure the border. Treadwell said he supported letting some people here illegally stay once they pay a fine and wait for permits behind those who immigrated legally. Sullivan called for more border security. -AP

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Governance tips for Modi Community leaders offer development agenda SURENDRA ULLAL, RAMESH SOPARAWALA & HARISH RAO

NaMo (Narendra Modi) has raised lot of expectations among Indians back home and Indians abroad in the light of his exceptional tackling of economic, social, environmental and law-order problems in his home State of Gujarat resulting in its virtual face lift

CHICAGO: It will be too early and too premature to make any assessment of the performance of the newly elect government in India led by Narendra Modi in the past three months but the way the government is addressing various issues - right from streamlining the administration, seeking to unearth black money, cleaning the government image, making extra efforts to forge close relations with neighbors and the last but not the least, reaching out to State governments for unified approach for solving national problems - do augur well for the near and distant future. NaMo (Narendra Modi) has raised lot of expectations among Indians back home and Indians abroad in the light of his exceptional tackling of economic, social, environmental and law-order problems in his home State of Gujarat resulting in its virtual face lift . It is in this context that India Post keeping up its tradition,

has touched bases with Indian American leaders in this country to list their priorities that the Modi government would do well to follow to improve the lot of "Aam" people and make India a global power. The opinions vary but a broad consensus that emerges seek to lay emphasis on development of infra-structure, the spread of education, especially technical and professional, even if it involves a little more bending to private institutions, and unearthing black money (ill gotten wealth) in India and hidden abroad. India with its huge manpower can turn out to be a dependable global source for skilled and professional personnel with the spread of education and faster industrial growth. AJIT GANDHI, a noted financial advisor in Chicagoland says that the Modi Government, with one wonderful step, could accomplish economic gains as well as improve the government's image. This is how it is possible. Let's say there are 1,000 big, posh government bungalows in Delhi. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 44

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Governance tips for Modi Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 43

Each is worth at least Rs 50 crores. These should be sold and in five of those plots, he can raise five buildings of 25 stories each. All ministers, MPs, bureaucrats can have 2 BHK flats each and can be accommodated thus. The savings can be approx 45,000 crore rupees (easily). That's a conservative estimate. There is no reason why these politicians and bureaucrats should be given all these facilities + servants + Anil Shah

Ajit Gandhi

staff + expenses. That's the main reason why they go in politics in the first place. This is not a farfetched idea. It is practical, though time-consuming. Secondly, he should make a deal with Russia by sending Indian IT professionals there and in return get Russian oil, thus showing the Middle East that their bossism will not be tolerated anymore. It is pure economics. Again, not that difficult but doable. The third area that it can concentrate beginning 2015, that the Prime Minister address the Nation from different parts of the country on August 15, rather than just the Red Fort, which is a symbol of slavery in the first place. In the world of high communication, anyone can see anyone from any place in whole of India. So, why not start with Srinagar, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai for the first four years and then spread out further. This will improve image-building. ANIL SHAH President World Money Exchange Inc. Chicago, said that the primary task for the Modi Government is to curb inflationary tendencies. The upsurge in prices of essential commodities and raw materials not only affects the common man but also pushes up the production cost which in its turn makes Indian products and services less competitive in the world markets. India needs to make its market more attractive for investors abroad and even in this context

tackling inflationary spiral needs to be given top priority. The second area is to continually make efforts to improve infrastructure in the country. Roads, transportation, power and energy sectors need to be upgraded all the time. China is a role model for this. What a sea change has been wrought in that country. No doubt it has raised itself as a power to be reckon with in the global arena. Modi government unfortunately has been given lot of bad publicity in the past mainly due to political maneuvering and machinations. This had its impact internationally too because of the role played by various "interest groups." The government should pay extra attention to erase that impression by ensuring peace. harmony and love among all communities - religious or regional or socially backward ones. DR ASHOK JAIN, a community activist and front ranking physician in Michigan, said that the Modi government should assign top priority to increasing jobs

harnessed not only for the good of the country but even for the world economies. The 'export' of skilled labor either in physical form or thru 'outsourcing by international companies' would give a boost to our international trade and help bring up standard of living in the country. It is an inter-related development and the Modi government could do well to focus on this area," he said. Another area that India needs to do really well pertains to women empowerment. This would not only help raise social morale but will also address the burning issue of women's safely in the country. "More empowerment of women thru better education, better job openings and better elective positions, in its way would cut down domestic abuse, sexual exploitation and help stronger family ties," Jain added THAKAR S BASATI, Independent Associate Director Legal Shield, said that improving cus-

Modi government unfortunately has been given lot of bad publicity in the past mainly due to political maneuvering and machinations. This had its impact internationally too because of the role played by various "interest groups." tomer service in India has a long way to go. The customer should be treated like king. To respect the customer, attitude needs to improve. Instead of thinking of robbing the customer, they need to show respect, show gratitude that someone is coming to them. It can go long way to improve tourism. "We were in Singapore when someone with Oriental features told a tourist going to India," We were pick-pocketed in Delhi and our passport and money was stolen. Took us one week to get our papers and get out of India, Be careful, don't trust anybody." Who would visit such a country is the question that we ask our-

Dr Ashok Jain

by attracting foreign investment and augmenting domestic saving. The upsurge in industrial production through higher investment will lead to even some export surplus which will boost our standing aboard The job creation in its turn is related to the spread of education, especially technical and professional. "We have huge intellectual talent resource and it needs to be

selves. The minute you land in Delhi, you get shivers. There needs to be a system and check and balance applied. The second top priority is to control corruption. Will any one, especially NRIs, trust any one in India with their money? So many NRIs are being robbed of their property by their tenants, relatives. If anyone tries to grab NRI property they should be penalized and punished to teach a lesson to others. The third area that affects the common people and the rich alike is adulteration. Anybody trying to mix stuff in eatables to make money should get monetary penalty and life in prison with no parole. People are mixing medicines to make money and getting away. India is loosing so much business because of few greedy ones. Why protect them, why not punish them heavily? Police and people in high position should get even sterner punishment than ordinary citizens.

Thakar Basati

BG DHAKE, President Dhake Industries, MI and one of the most successful Indian American businessmen with global footing, observed that the newly elected Modi Government has to tackle three important issues to bring India up domestically and internationally. The first and foremost area that needs to be addressed is the "surging population". It is believed that by 2020 India will be the most populous country in the world. However well any government tries to improve the lot of the people, the growth in population will eat away the gains. Second area is the improvement in infrastructure. Better railroads, supply of power and water are important for spurring economic growth. If that is not done, the industries would not come up and that will have adverse impact on the job market. The third area is to dig out illgotten money, especially in Swiss banks. "We have billions of dollars stashed up overseas and they need to be brought back to India so that the funds could be harnessed for economic development without hiking the tax burden on the poor and middle class. If Modi

BG Dhake

ji does this, which previous rulers have not done, he will definitely bring India to the top globally," he said Dr BHARAT BARAI, a prominent oncologist from Indiana and a front ranking community activist now in charge of hosting welcome reception of Indian PM Narendra Modi in New Jersey, said the top most priority that Modiji can assign is to spread quality and technical education all over the country with huge help from private educational institutions. Short of privatizing, the government can lean heavily on private sector agencies for setting up facilities which would impart world class technical and business-management education to Indian students which would augment the skilled personnel pool in India for global advantage. India

Dr Bharat Barai

can hope to achieve a milestone in becoming a world power with huge availability of skilled professionals. Another area is to speed up energy and defense products cutting down foreign dependence. The Modi government would do well to tap alternative sources for increasing power and energy supply like hydroelectric, tidal waves, windmills and even the use of green waste, besides harnessing atomic fusion. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 46

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Governance tips for Modi Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 44

For larger partnership with the private sector, even non-Indian corporations should be welcome, he felt India is foreign dependent for sophisticated weapons and planes. "We should aim at cutting down this dependence as much as possible and in a certain restricted way, partnership with private firms can be favorably considered," he said. India can achieve a global power status only with higher indigenous defense production, he said Two other areas which require close consideration relate to judiciary and filling higher administrative positions. The Indian judiciary with a lot of British luggage is getting out of bound time-wise. It is a normal thing for a good number of judicial cases taking 10 to 12 years to get decided. This makes mockery of justice and beneficiaries largely are criminals and corrupt elements while law abiding citizens would like to keep away from lengthy judicial process. Reform of judiciary is must to inspire respect for rule of law. The administrative filing for promotion and higher positions should be on merit and not on considerations of seniority or "reservation". This will induce the right persons to work hard and sincerely and cut down mediocrity in the administration. DR DAYALMESHRI, CEOAdvance Research Chemcials Tulsa OK, said the Modi Government should give top priority to unearthing black money especially lying untouched in Swiss banks. "India needs huge investible funds to step up industrialization and economic growth." "There are small chances of raising huge amount of money thru taxation or printing notes. The real option is to get black money out in the market and turn it white for investment. With this end in view, the government should apply a

Dr Dayal Meshri

carrot and stick policy." "Come out with an Amnesty Program. Ask those having huge ill gotten wealth to declare within specified time. They can keep about 25 percent and surrender 75 percent to the government. Failing to do that will be visited upon with hefty fine and criminal prosecution," Dr Meshri said. Yet another area that the government would focus on relates to overhauling of administration. Top bureaucrats should be held responsible for proper functioning of their departments. Right persons should get out of turn promotions too. This will help ordinary people at large and improve the government image too. The third area relates to improving education facilities across the country. "We have set up schools and colleges in Patan, the area I helped raise after migrating from Pakistan after partition. Similarly, those who have flourished eco-

Dr Kiran Patel

India should emulate this nation. Another area is education. "We have teeming millions and relatively speaking large percentage young ones. We do not want them to remain unskilled or non savvy technologically as that would get them low wages. We need highly trained man power so that India can become a source of skilled and pro-

India is foreign dependent for sophisticated weapons and planes. "We should aim at cutting down this dependence as much as possible and in a certain restricted way, partnership with private firms can be favorably considered," he said nomically in India or abroad should be encouraged to set up educational facilities through out the country. This will help people improve efficiency and spur growth," he said. DR KIRAN PATEL, former chief of Association of American Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) , said there are three major areas that the government needs to focus on: education, health and infra structure- but preceding that it should seek an overhaul of administration, cutting down red tapism and bureaucratic delay. This would improve efficiency and help plug out bribery which is rampant at practically all stages. The general public will benefit too and will give them more confidence in the government and themselves. The main focus after that should be improvement in infrastructure power, energy, transportation roads, storage etc should get top priority. An essentially agriculture country like India should ensure that farm goods reach the ultimate consumes - in raw form or processed one - in time and not lose in value while getting transported. The same applies to getting industrial raw material to the industries for import and export of finished products. China is a recent and most classic example and

fessionally qualified pool for all to depend on," he said. "Being a doctor, I cannot overemphasis the need for huge improvement in healthcare in the country, especially in rural areas which lack qualified doctors and well trained pharmacists. We need to do something fast, rather radically fast, to improve here," he observed. DR RAM GAJJELA, a front ranking businessman and a former president of Indo American Democratic Organization, said the most primary issue that the Modi Government should earnestly try to address relates to the spread of education. Higher education especially will make the society at large more productive and more tolerant to the

Dr Ram Gajjela

views held by others. Currently more than 85 percent of the population hasn't finished even high school while women lag behind more, relatively speaking. The empowerment of women is needed to make society a better place to live in. Secondly, the area that I feel the government would do well to tackle relates to health. Every house in India should have a toilet and proper bathroom. In the absence of that, public washroom and bath rooms need to be set up. The government needs to pay added attention to improving highways and roads, especially feeder roads to villages in remote areas. The last thing relates to the spread of banking which in its turn will help open doors for rural folks to have easy access to the lending and other facilities provided by financial institutions. This will go a long way in building rural economy, he felt. HARENDRA MANGROLA, an engineer by profession and a community activist by vocation, said that not only Indians back home but Indians world over expect the Modi Government to do so many things and that too quickly. The question is how much one can do when he has inherited tons of problems and dirt. Mangrola said he is reminded by what Modi mother has told him once. A Kachrawala (person taking out dirt from home and street) had come to Modi's house to pick Kachara (the dirt). When young Modi informed his mother, "Ma Kachrawala has come." His mother's response was revealing: "Beta, we are all Kacharawalas and the guy who has come is Safaiwala (person who cleans the dirt). We create the dirt and he cleans." It aptly applies to the situation that the Modi government is saddled with. Lot of dirt to be cleared and cleaned at number of areas. One can suggest something and others would come out with alternatives. To my mind cleansing the scandal ridden government, chastising corrupt bureaucrats and taking out the ill-gotten wealth from fattened industrialistsbusinessmen should be accorded the top most priority. This will send a clear message to everyone and slowly things will start falling into their proper place. Good Luck to the government! IFTEKHAR SHAREEF, chairman Trustee Board Federation of Indian Associations Chicago said the top most area that the newly elected Modi Government should focus on is further liberalization of our economy so far as overseas

Harendra Mangrola

investments are concerned. Barring sensitive industries like defense or for that matter media, foreign companies should be allowed to hold majority shares so that they have a bigger say in the management. This will induce them to run their operations in most efficient way. Even China and Israel have followed that practice and have reaped huge dividend. Secondly, foreign investors should feel safe about their investment -capital wise and profit repatriation wise. They need to be treated as par with local investors protecting their physical property and intellectual interests in India. Third is infrastructure. Everybody harps on this for removing transportation and energy bottleneck. "I would go a step further. We have huge unearthed resources lying below our land precious and non precious metals, oil, gas and what not. We need to tap them for increasing our industrial production and exports. And we need to encourage foreign investment and foreign technical collaboration. This will spur industrial growth and create huge employment," he said In a message to Indians living abroad, especially in the USA, he said they should seriously consider setting apart 20 per cent of their saving and earning for investment in India. Chinese and Israeli immigrants to USA have successfully achieved that and Indians can follow their lead. NAREN PATEL President MedStar Laboratories and President Vishwa Gujarati Samaj Chicago, said that Modi Ji has to redo at national level what he did in Gujarat during past decade, relying more on small and medium scale businesses and industries to work the economic miracle. "He encouraged entrepreneurship and improved infra-structure greatly. This brought in larger flow of investment not only from across India but even the world. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 51

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Governance tips for Modi Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 46

Higher level of confidence among investors will spur industrial growth and like China the country can also carve out its presence in the world markets," he said. The other area is defense. Although India does not believe in conquests or aggression, it should be in a position to defend itself, especially when surrounded by unscrupulous neighbors like Pakistan who keep on pinching us across borders to divert their public's attention from domestic woes. The third area is sealing our borders. "Like USA, we also face unrelenting inflow of illegal immigrants and we cannot sustain them for ever. The stricter border vigilance and greater domestic monitoring are must to address this problem," he added. Naren Patel was equally emphatic on improving the health care system in the country. "Right now we can only boast of a couple of trauma centers in cities like Mumbai. We should plan more and encourage potential health care professionals to create more in practically all major cities to start with. This would bring a great relief to patients dying without immediate care," he said Also, medical professionals, mainly physicians should be more accountable for treatment of their patients as is the case in countries like USA. The threat of a possible lawsuit involving huge financial damage and possibility of losing their licenses would make them more vigilant and responsible even to poor patients, he observed. MAFAT PATEL, a front tanking businessman often described as "uncrowned King of Devon," in Chicago, mentioned that India, despite its fast industrialization and softwarisation, is still essentially an agricultural country with 65 to 70 per cent of its national income stemming from agriculture sector. The Modi government would do well to rejuvenate and regenerate this sector with ample supply of power and water. "With a combination of these two inputs, Indian economy will leap-frog and boost the living standard of its ordinary people. Industrialization will also get a boost with easy and relatively cheap supply of raw materials from the farm sector. The government should give priority to revitalizing the rural economy. In this context, he suggested a few decades old river project

Mafatbhai Patel

scheme that sought to link major rivers with huge waterways and dams. This will go a long way in re-channeling the water flowing into the sea for power generation and irrigation besides creating a cross country navigable waterways which in its turn would lessen dependence on transportation by road and rail. Mafat Patel also wanted huge investment in creating facilities of secondary and higher education, with special emphasis on technology and developing professional skills. This will create a huge technically skilled human resource spurring industrialization which will push up wages and general standard of living. NAND KAPUR, former president of Association of Indians in

Nand Kapur

America, said that ending of reservation policy should be the top most priority for the Modi government. The filling of government positions should be only on merit and not on any other considerations The same rule should apply for securing admission to higher education or for getting professional degrees. This will ensure that only talented people get to the helm of affairs which would benefit the society at large in the long run. Those socially backward might be offered financial assistance to come up in society rather than reserving seats for them in technical schools or professional academic institutions. PRABHAKER PATEL, vice

preident, Money Dart Chicago said Narendra Modi should focus on Manufacturing Sector to make India in line next to China. "As you see 95% goods in USA are all imported from China. He should focus and help small and large scale manufacturing industry and capture USA market as China has done." One of the ways is to encourage banks and banking services proliferating in rural area and all small villages. The government should also focus on eradication of corruption which is the biggest

Prabhakar Patel

problem In India for majority of local residents and also for NRIs visiting India for holidays and business. The third area to focus on relates to demolishing the slums and zopadpattis in all major cities and provide better housing to all sincere hard working people, plus provide free education to bright deserving boys and girls. Another issue that bothers many enlightened is the increasing rape cases in India. The government should undertake "Beti Bachao" and pass a law that any person involved in rape should be hanged to death." The governemtn has taken a right step for endng pollution bypickign up the cleaning of our Pavitra River "Ganges" The same concept should be for other rivers, cities and industrial towns also with lot of air pollution. SOHAN JOSHI, president National Federation of Indian American Associations, said that the top most priority that the newly elected government of Narendra Modi can assign is to harness black money for developmental project of the country and this covers bringing in hidden treasure from Swiss banks. "To me another avenue to get more funds for development is to induce the temple managements across the country to bring out huge trove of treasure that they have and put the money to help

spur economic growth in the country. Without boosting industrial and economic growth, the government will not be in a position to address the problem of poverty and joblessness in the country," he said. Joshi was equally strong on laying emphasis on preserving law and order in the country. "Citizens, especially women, should feel safe in the country. This will also apply to visitors from abroad as it would go a long way in boosting tourist traffic," he said. Besides, there are a number of problems that require focused attention like education, health and bureaucratic efficiency, he added. SUNIL SHAH, Founder President F.I.A, Chicago, IL, said that to get the economy back on track, the top priority should be to bring down inflation which had been averaging at 10% for last several years under the Congress ruled government. The factors which affect inflation in India are high food and energy prices, large current account deficit and delayed infrastructure projects. To curb the food prices there is need to act on

Sohan Joshi

stopping food hoarding, curtailing black market and reduction in agriculture subsidies. The development of energy capacity at home is crucial by relaxing on price controls on resources like coal and improve the patchy electrical grid. Good relations with neighbor-

Sunil Shah

ing countries like China, Pakistan, Canada etc should be given top priority and of course it comes with challenges and opportunities. China had recently made a gesture to fund $300 billion to Indian capital investment. There are opportunities for India to address its capital stock deficiency through trade with China and thereby improve its image globally. Our Prime Minister Modiji has to take strong steps and implement developmental policies across India and make India's growth strong, fast and sustainable the same way he already did as Gujarat Chief Minister. The focus should be on improving Indian business' competitiveness especially in manufacturing sector and making India an easier place to do business and also to take corrective measures to boost FDI. Narendrabhai Modi has a proven track record of governance in Gujarat and people have reposed enormous faith in his leadership. We have a government for the first time in a long time that is not held back by really fractious coalition politics. We are fully optimistic that he will fulfill the aspirations of millions of people. MS SUNEETA SINGH, an Educator and Economist pointed out three major areas of reform needed in India to make it economically strong: 1. Structural reforms...water, sanitation, affordable housing, electricity, transportation, simplified tax structure, efficient management of state owned enterprises, educational reforms to encourage vocational training. 2. Simplify rules to encourage entrepreneurs, reduce red tapeism and bureaucratic style of functioning by encouraging efficient / quick decision making process. This would also increase confidence of foreign investors and result in higher FDI, as simplified rules will encourage foreign companies to invest and do business in India. Of course this needs to be backed by a strong and efficient judiciary to build confidence of foreign investors 3. Attempt to reduce the number of people living below the poverty line with a clear timeline. This will not only help to push up the GDP but will also help to boost the economy as higher purchasing power of people will automatically result in higher demand for goods and services. However an important but difficult aspect to get results would be: Character building. This could be a long term goal.

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WHAT THE STAR GAZERS SAY â&#x20AC;Ś

ndia needs not only the government of the people, by the people but also For the People for a reason ably long period of time. The democratic set up en sured by and large a government of the people and by the people but those getting elected did not really work all the time For the People. Things seem to have changed for the better after all, but the question foremost in the mind of many is how long this change will last? Stability at the Center is crux of the problem, especially when there are sort of pulls and pressures from different interest groups -political, communal, regional and even international. It is in this context that we tried to touch bases with a different group of analysts - the Star Gazers. Many of whom had predicted NaMo's rise to power much before the election outcome. We sought their views on the stability of the NaMo government. We just share with our readers what they have to say. In fact, a few did predict victory for Narenda Modi much before the election results. One astrologer in Mumbai, DR ASHIT JALUI, did contribute an article in India Post in January 2013 - much before the 2014 election results - that touted Modi's victory in the general elections in India. It would be interesting for a large number of readers for soothsayers to make one more attempt at reading the stars

Dr Ashit Jalui with Modi

Paresh Dani and Dr Abdul Kalam

and offer their conclusions: Dr Ashit Jalui in a talk to this paper said that Narendra Modi will thrive as PM and barring some health problems, he did not visualize any danger to him or his government for the next ten years. He asserted that during Modi's regime, the country will notch good progress and will earn a lot of respect in the global sphere. "It may not ascend to the position of super power but will definitely get more respect than what it gets now or what it really deserves," he said. PM Modi will strive hard to fulfill his election promises and that the "success rate" would be 55 to 60 per cent, he predicted. PARESH DANI, an Ahmedabad based astrologer and Rekha Shastri probably was among the first to predict Narendra Modi's ascendance to power not only as Indian PM but also much before that as the CM of Gujarat Sate. Incidentally, this prediction was in the presence of two independent witnesses one NRI and one marketing exDr Dhara Patel ecutive of a company in

Ahmedabad - who even now could vouchsafe for its accuracy. Narendra Modi did not hold any elective position in the Gujarat State at the time of prediction in mid February 2001 nor did he aspire to be the CM of the State. It was reading of the face and hand supplemented by astrological interpretation. Dani mentioned to an astonished Modi that he would be heading the state of Gujarat in about eight months and that would probably rule the State for the longest period of time as CM. Dani in a talk to this paper confirmed this and hastened to add that Modiji was so surprised that he quipped "Are you intoxicated?" Dani added that he also predicted at the same time that Modiji would be at the helm of affairs at the Federal level by 2014 which again was deemed "most surprising prediction that I had come across in my whole life," said Bhailal Patel an NRI community activist present then. Dani in a telephonic talk to India Post reiterated that Modiji "will be one of the most successful rulers of the country and will continue as the Indian PM for the next 12 years." Narendra Modi "had never come to me for any astrological consultation or in the past any time and had not sought any such advice even during our 2001 meeting. It was my strong reading of his chart and my intuition that I ventured on my own to come out with my observations," he added On May 18, two days after the election results, Dani emailed Bhailal to remind everyone of his old "incredible" predictions. "Narendra Modi, born on Sunday, September 17, 1950, will make India powerful and prosperous during his tenure, achieving new heights of economic growth and historians will describe Modi as visva-ratna. His life-journey from the age of 64 to 89 will be his golden period (suvarna-kala)," he said in his e mail. DR DHARA PATEL, one of the youngest Indian astrologers who visited USA very recently, said that she too had informed all those who asked her that Modi Ji would prove victorious and would head the Indian government. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 53

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What the Star Gazers sayâ&#x20AC;Ś Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 52

In a talk to this paper, she said that her reading indicated that the next "decade will be Modi's decade" and that it is unlikely that anybody could touch him. Dr Dhara combines astrology with her deep knowledge of Nadi Shastra. PROF ANANT RAWAL, a noted Sanskrit scholar and former professor at Gujarat University now residing in Chicagoland said that barring some health issues, Narendra Modi Prof Anant Rawal would continue to be Indian PM for the next decade at least. PT ANIL JOSHI, a scholar in ancient Indian scriptures and now a head priest at Grays Lake temple, told this paper that Modi ji should be careful about his health and more so during the three months period of coming DecemberJanuary period. With the Sun moving in to Makar Rashi after mid January, things will start looking up for Narendra Modi. "Even during the lean period ending mid-January, I do not foresee any great danger to the government save his health issue. In fact, slowly he will win over or vanquish the internal dissenters and then for the next few

years he should succeed ringing in changes improving domestic economy and improving Indian image aboard. My strong feeling is that because of his favorable Brishaspati, he would earn huge name and fame for himself and India globally down the line," Pt Joshi said. He suggested Rahu Puja or Kavach for Modi. Pt Anil Joshi "I know he will not heed to my advice, but it would be good for him if he does Rahu Puja," he added. J A T I N PATEL, a pharmacist by profession but a budding follower of Indian science of astrology with a good following among Americans, said that his mentor in India, PROF CHOUDHARY in New Delhi, had confided to him that Modi would Jatin Patel be romping home

victorious much before the election results were out. Choudhary's observations, Jatin said, were based not only reading Modi's chart but also that of Rahul Gandhi's which was weak compared to that of M o d i ' s . Choudhary mentioned that though defeated VK Choudhary Rahul may resurrect in about a decade and he should not be considered a spent force Jatin Patel had two words of caution for Modi with his observation based on Rahu's transit and Rahu's characteristics as Shadow Planet. He said that Modi Ji should take extra care of his health as it can cloud his ability to lead decisively at times. The relative bad period would be November of this year to January next. Secondly, he should take precautions about his personal safety. "I fear communal elements instigated by outside power or agencies, could pose a threat. He should be extra vigilant selecting his personal staff. It may not be only religious fanatics but even the mafia and corrupt elements who need to be watched," he said.

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Datebook

August 15, 2014

India Post 55

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NEW JERSEY

NEW YORK

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Upcoming

ILLINOIS

Upcoming

Sat, Sep 6, 2014 • Sediq Shubab and Aryana Sayeed Live In San Francisco

• J K Yog Satsang and Bal Mukund Hindi Classes are held every 2nd and 4rth Sunday of Month

Venue: Chabot Collage, 25555 Hesperian

Chicago Satsang Information: J K Yog, Chicago - Swami Mukundananda Venue: Clarion Inn/Waterford Banquets, Board Room, 933 South Riverside Drive, Elmhurst, IL 60126 Time: 3:30pm-5:30pm Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630-561-4807 Website: www.jkyog.org

Sat, Aug 16 • Meet & Greet Miss America Venue: Edison Hotel and Conference Center, 3050 Woodbridge Ave, Edison, NJ 08837 Time : 06:30 pm Contact: 732-201-2838

Fri, Aug 22 • Lalitha Mahayagnam

Sat, Aug 17 • India Parade Day - NY (18+ to Party) Venue: Club Mystique NYC, 141 Chrystie St, New York, NY 10002 Time : 5:00 pm Contact : 732-703-6661

Sat, Aug 24 • Ustad Tari Khan Mehefil-eGhazal and Tabla Solo Recital

Venue: Shree Swamy Narayan Temple, 1667 Amwell Rd, Franklin Township, NJ 08873 Time: 8:00 am Contact: 516-359-8178

Venue: Courtyard by Marriot New York LaGuardia Airport, 90-10 Grand Central Pkwy, NY 11369 Time: 5:00 pm Contact : 718-639-2881

Sat, Aug 30 • Kumar Sanu - Aashiqui Ke Liye

Sun, Aug 24 • Mika Singh Live In New York

Venue: Ritz Theater, 1148 E Jersey St, Elizabeth, NJ 07201 Time: 8:00 pm

Venue: Long Island University, 720 Northern Blvd, NY 11368 Time: 06:30 pm Contact: 347-989-6104

Sat, Aug 16 • 22nd Festival of India and Parade Venue: Corner of Paseo Padre and Walnut Ave., 39439 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont, CA 94538 Contact: 510-565-9993

Sun, Aug 17 • 22nd Festival of India and Parade Venue: Corner of Paseo Padre and Walnut Ave., 39439 Paseo Padre Pkwy, Fremont, CA 94538 Time: 1:00 pm Contact: 510-5659993

Sun, Aug 17 • Sri Krishna Janmashtami Puja Vivekananda Vedanta Society of Chicago

Venue: 14630 Lemont Road, Homer Glen 60491 Time: 11 am Contact: chicagovedanta.org

Sun, Aug 24 • Kailash Kher live in Concert Venue: Chabot College of Performing Arts, 25555 Hesperian Blvd, Hayward, CA 94545 Timet: 7:30 pm Contact: 510-371-9999

Fri, Aug 29 • AKKA 2014 Sponsorship Venue: San Jose McEnery Convention Center, 150 W. San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95113 Contact: 456-546-4646

Mon, Sep 10 • Shreya Ghoshal Live In Bay Area Venue: San Jose City National Civic Theater, 135 W San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95113 Contact: 5102008784

Blvd, Hayward, CA 94545 Time: 6:30 pm. Contact:510-894-5376

Sat, Aug 23 • Aa Family Komedy Chhey - Gujrati Drama Venue: James Logan Performing Arts Center, 1800 H St, Union City, CA 94587 Time: 7:00 pm Contact: 510-648-0596

ATLANTA Upcoming Sun, Aug 10 • Art Competition Venue: Chattahoochee Technical College, 2680 Gordy Pkwy, Marietta, GA 30066 Time: 10:00 am Contact: 678-429-7105

Fri, Aug 15 • Double Dhamaal Comedy Venue: Berkmar High School, 405 Pleasant Hill Road, Lilburn, GA 30047 Contact: 404-786-7860 Time: 8:45 pm

Sun, Aug 17 • Shreya Ghoshal Live In Atlanta Venue: Cobb Energy Performing Art Center Center, 800 Galleria Pkwy SE, Atlanta, GA 30339 Time: 7:00pm

1st and 3rd Sunday of Month • Chicago Children's Bal Mukund Character Building Program and Hindi Literacy Classes Venue: Vogelei Center, 650 W. Higgins Road, Hoffmann Estates, IL 60192 (Next to Nissan Dealership) Contact: Ajay & Arti Chandhok @ 630-561-4807

Mondays and Fridays • Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes Metropolitan Asian Family Services Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL, Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Contact: 773-465-3105

Mondays and Fridays • Free ESL - English as Second Language Classes Where: Metropolitan Asian Family Services Venue: 9015 N Milwaukee Ave, Niles, IL, Time: 10:30am to 12:30pm Contact: 773-465-3105

56 India Post

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without the shelter of my tent. It was a cold night. With little more sleep, I found I could not eat. I was vomiting up what little I could put in my stomach. My shortness of breath and my inability to eat made it impossible to reach the next town. I had to admit defeat. I checked my cell after the sun charged it up. No signal. I was in an ocean of desolation. I had food but could not eat, I could barely breathe, and the road was a desolate wasteland of automated industry. Something in me said not to go back, but to press forward. 50 miles. At best, it would take three days. Now, at my worst, it could take an eternity. I wanted to lie down and die, let the coyotes and rattle snakes be my end. Despite all the world being against me, I made it. Depressed, exhausted and starving, I struggled the distance in just 5 days. What kept me going was the idea that my life wasn't my own. It was now connected to so many lives. In the face of great adversity, what will keep us going is our connection to the lives we touch. That is how you create purpose.

RITU MAHESHWARI India Post News Service

Special Interview FREMONT, CA: Stephen Hnilica, a serial entrepreneur and online marketing specialist, is walking from Tampa to Seattle to raise $100,000 for Free the Children. The walk from Tampa to Seattle is 3657 miles and will take Stephen about six to nine months. Along the way he was in Bay area and was gracious to enough to provide an exclusive interview to Ritu Maheshwari of India Post. What inspired you to undertake such a long walk? Back in Tampa, I was living my life for me, and as fun as it could be. At times, a life lived for one is a life barely lived. I needed that feeling of purpose and growth that makes the difficulties we all face in our lives worthwhile. With this journey, I did the opposite of what I had been told about finding purpose. I did something that I didn't think I could handle, something that forced me not to find purpose in my life, but to create it. A rite of passage, a crucible to show me what I'm capable of. Thru this journey, I wanted to bring the opportunity of education to children who would otherwise be forgotten. So many

Stephen Hnilica

times I've heard about something and thought "someone should do something about that", what keeps me going is knowing that I can be that someone.

Engine Optimization and social media consulting firm. I also worked with information marketers to create and market continuing and alternative education courses.

How does your family take this effort? How are they supporting you? When I first told my parents, they said I am crazy, and that this journey would be the death of me. I didn't try to persuade them about it. I knew I needed to do this. When I set out, my parents, and my brother JD became my trail angels; the people who were there for me when I needed help the most. When the kindness of strangers failed, I always had my family.

Can you narrate any interesting incidents you encountered along the way?

Please describe your previous endeavors. I've been mostly "self educated" since 12. By self educated, a better term might be self directed. I've had more teachers and read more books than most people my age. My parents were small business owners and I was inspired to do the same, learning about Internet marketing at 15. Before I left Tampa, I had a small Search

August 15, 2014

next town. In a desolate road, surrounded by the endless field of natural gas wells, I was forced to camp as the night pressed in and what little heat that blessed the desert in winter left the land. My weary body quickly retreated into sleep. I woke suddenly from a disturbing dream

Thru this journey, I wanted to bring the opportunity of education to children who would otherwise be forgotten. So many times I've heard about something and thought "someone should do something about that", what keeps me going is knowing that I can be that someone. One of my biggest fears in this journey is that I would quit. I would get depressed or hurt and say that I can't continue on. I was in East New Mexico, just west of Hobbs. I had 50 miles before I reached the

to find I could barely breathe. The site smelled of the toxic fumes of natural gas. One of the wells was leaking. I grabbed my gear and quickly moved to the high ground. I was exposed to the biting wind,

What advise can you give to youngsters today? Learn and experiment as much as you can. Learn to love uncertainty and learn

to dance with your fears. When you ask yourself "why doesn't somebody do something about that?" remember, you are somebody. And most of all don't seek an easy life; seek challenges that will make you more capable of helping others. Across the country, what are the key cultural differences you came across? I feel we are a county divided by looking for how people are different from us. From every big city, to every small town, the one thing everyone had in common was that they were all good people. Some were desperate for love, money, or fun, but they were all amazing people. The culture of America is that we are not just accepting of strangers, but we welcome them with open arms. And when called upon, we seek to help our fellow men. Despite what politicians have us believe, there is more similarity between Texas and California than there are differences. Follow his journey at http:// stephensadventure.com and help this amazing cause.

August 15, 2014

India Post 57 www.indiapost.com

Chacha Chaudhary creator Pran is no more Cartoonist Pran Kumar Sharma who made childhood memorable for a majority of Indians with his funny characters and adventurous comic books passed away on August 6 at the age of 75. Pran's two characters Chacha Chaudhary and Sabu especially became very popular. Chacha Chaudhary comic books were adapted for television. Chacha Chaudhary: Chacha Chaudhary was a tiny man with a brain that was faster than a computer. With a very recognizable red turban and white mustache, Chacha Chaudhary's character is etched in our minds forever. Sabu: Another iconic character from the comic book series was Sabu. Sabu was from the planet Jupiter and they said that when-

ever he got angry, a volcano in Jupiter surely erupted. Sabu is described as someone who is very tall and exceptionally strong. Chachi: Chacha Chaudhary's wife in the comic series loves her husband, dotes on Sabu but at the same time gets angry with the duo for their dangerous antics at the drop of a hat. While Chachaji is stick thin, his wife is quite plump. Pinki: Apart from the Chacha Chaudhary series, there are some other characters that Pran created that became very popular. A comic book series on Pinki was amongst them. Pinki is this young girl with a short blunt haircut and wears her matching hairband according to the color of her dress. While she is good at heart, Pinki usually

makes funny blunders and goes on correcting them in the stories. Billu: While Pinki was a famous character, another floppy haired guy named Billu gained popularity as well. Billu was easy to identify with his messy hair that always covered his eyes. He was funny and smart but would also end up in goofy situations most of the times. Raka: Sabu and Chacha Chaudhary usually fight a large number of criminals but they mostly have a permanent villain 'Raka' always lurking in the corner. Raka is strong and powerful but Chacha Chaudhary and Sabu always manage to score over him. Rocket: A Chacha Chaudhary adaptation is incomplete without his dog 'Rocket.'

Paresh Rawal: Mr. Modi does not believe in any kind of corruption

aresh Rawal, 59, is a simple, uncomplicated man who hates being a hypocrite, as he believes it corrupts your soul. While he may need to do frivolous brain-dead comedy at times, what he truly enjoys doing is meaningful comedy, which makes you laugh one moment but also makes you cry. Ahead of his upcoming film Raja Natwarlal, he talks about his respect for Naseeruddin Shah, what makes him a fan of Narendra Modi and why he loves his wife Swaroop Sampat the most in the world. Excerpts: How did you come into films? I am a Gujarati, born and brought up in Mumbai. My father was a textile manager initially and then he had his own business. In school, I would participate in debates and plays and was often told that I was good at it. Even while doing my graduation from Narsee Monjee, my principal UR Koli was very supportive of me doing theatre and gave me attendance relief to encourage me. My plays would often be dark and serious, even though I do comedies now. I was very inspired by art cinema and directors like Shyam Benegal, Govind Nihalani and Ketan Mehta. I struggled to get in

for three years, but there was a star system there too and then also, they had superior actors, so I did not get a chance and continued to do theatre. Till one day, when my friend Karim Morani was making Arjun and gave me a role. Javed sahab liked me a lot and said to me that I would be in every film of his. What is the difference between doing theatre and cinema? Theatre teaches you discipline. In theatre, you get to do some great writing on stage that you cannot do for films, as the economics of making a film versus a play are very different. You can experiment with yourself in theatre and it helps you prepare for the film world. Unlike in films, in theatre, there is a very family kind of bonding with your crew. Above all, in theatre there are no retakes and there is instant acceptance or rejection by the audience. You are not conventionally goodlooking. Your wife Swaroop Sampat was a Miss India. What drew you to each other? To fall in love, you don't need to be good looking. Swaroop comes from a rich family. I come from a middle-class background. She was from Cathedral, I, from a

Vile Parle-based Gujarati medium school, so, any which way, there was nothing in common, but after seeing each other for 12 years, we got married when I was 33. I think she liked my simplicity and my

stay in the outside world, so I have to stay a little bit crooked to ensure that at least others don't harm me. I love Swaroop for her simplicity and strength of character. She became a Miss India in 1979.

Paresh Rawal

passion to do things that I want to do, regardless of its result, as I always feel ki ek baar main karne ka maza toh le loon. Also, my confidence appealed to her, the fact that despite not being good-looking, I wanted to come into films. For me, my wife and my two sons are my world. They are so pious and uncorrupt that I sometimes feel that they will not be able to face the world. Itne seedhe log hain. I

When you are asked a question on stage, many girls say noble things, but in Swaroop's case, she meant it. In 2000, when the kids had grown up and I was stable in my career, she said to me, 'I want to pursue my studies.' She finished her post graduation and then did her Ph.D from Houston University and now is big time into education, where, she stays upto 15 days in poor conditions teaching kids, not taking a single penny for it. So, what she said then that I want to do something for kids, she is fulfilling it. I am not degrading anybody, but she discarded the kitty party film wife culture and went and pursued this instead. She is very straightforward and with her, you get what you see.

58 India Post

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Horoscope

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August 15, 2014

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Your Weekly Future by Pandit Parashar

AUGUST 15TH - AUGUST 21ST, 2014 (March 21 to April 20)

ou will buy some beautiful and expensive item for the house. Letter you write to a government agency will be given immedi ate attention and reply will come in positive only. You will feel very energetic and take initiative in making a short trip to a new and beautiful place. You will lay your hands on some easy money this week.

(September 23 to October 22)

ome of you may take up an assignment far away from home. Financially looks like a rewarding week. Speculation and lot tery will be profitable. You may make some plans with colleagues at work also. Trip will be exciting and fill everybody with energy. Some one you discarded from your life in the past will try to make peace with you.

(October 23 to November 22)

(April 21 to May 20)

ind will be slightly restless as you will have too many things on your plate this week. One of your cars will need to be taken to a auto shop. You will be signing some important papers most probably related to a property. Some of you may even take few days off from work to go on a vacation. Connections you make will be helpful later.

here will be lots of activities at work and you may be in line for moving to next level. You will be torn between right and wrong but will ultimately end up taking the correct decision on an important issue not involving career. Business trips will be specially fruitful. Strong chance of an addition in the family.

(November 23 to December 22)

(May 21 to June 20)

ou will take an important and sound decision this week. Results will come quick. Some of you may quickly jump on an offer recently received and decide to make a smooth switch in career. You may plan to have some major work done in and around your home. Venus in second will give you the Midas touch in almost all money matters.

elationship can become permanent now. You may finally make an offer on a nice property and wait for response. Some one will bring nice gifts for you. You may be getting ready for the long distance trip now. Money wise you will keep moving towards positive and with less bills. You may also visit a holy place with family.

(June 21 to July 22)

enus in first will help you enjoy life to extremes. Business will shoot up suddenly and the loan application will also go through without any hassles. You may develop taste for hot and spicy food. Some of you may go for an eyes exam also. Time spent on phone will be well worth it. A big family reunion will take place during the week.

(December 22 to January 19)

ou may take off from work for few days to make it a long week end and travel to a nice but hot place with family. Bachelors will come across a nice and good looking person and quickly become friends. Some anxiety about career will come to an end and you will feel better. You may buy or replace some electric gadget at home.

(July 23 to August 22)

ost of your plans will go through. Raja yoga Karka planet Mars will fill you with energy and help you overcome all diffi culties of the past. Money spent on legal process will get the job done soon. Your image will improve in social circle and you will be in demand at the party too. People in business will be happy with progress.

(January 20 to February 18)

ou may finally get out of a relationship not working out so well lately. Planets will help those who are seeking job for first time or looking for a change. Past efforts will pay off and your product will be appreciated and start selling. You will be helping one of your child with application to different colleges.

(August 23 to September 22)

fforts made in the past will get results this week. Chances are that you will be signing more than one big contract. Financially it will be a lot better week for all. You will be assigned an important project by the boss with all the help you need to finish it on time. Park your car at proper place and drive within limit.

PANDIT PARASHAR, CEO & COO Astro Scan USA is also available for individual consultations. He can be reached at: parashar@parashar.com

(February 19 to March 20)

elationship will keep getting stronger. Some of you will be tak ing a trip in direction East with family this week. It will be an expensive week and you may end up spending slight more than budget. You may ask boss to move you to another place. It will be better to dispose off recently bought and money making stocks and wait.

510-886-4370 www.parashar.com

Philosophy

August 15, 2014

India Post 61

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Page Sponsored by Sahanis SRI AUROBINDO

he Vedantic Seers, even after they had arrived at the crowning idea, the convincing experience of Sachchidananda as the highest positive expression of the Reality to our consciousness, erected in their speculations or went on in their perceptions to an Asat, a Non-Being beyond, which is not the ultimate existence, the pure consciousness, the infinite bliss of which all our experiences are the expression or the deformation. If at all an existence, a consciousness, a bliss, it is beyond the highest and purest positive form of these things that here we can possess and other therefore than what here we know by these names. Only, the positive and synthetic teaching of the Upanishads beheld Sat and Asat not as opposites destructive of each other, but as the last antinomy through which we look up to the Unknowable. And in the transactions of our positive consciousness, even Unity has to make its account with Multiplicity; for the Many also are Brahman. It is by Vidya, the Knowledge of the Oneness, that we know God; without it Avidya, the relative and multiple consciousness, is a night of darkness and a disorder of Ignorance. Yet if we exclude the field of that Ignorance, if we get rid of Avidya as if it were a thing nonSWAMI DAYANANDA SARASWATI

ou do not learn anything without effort on your part. Experience does not teach unless you actively learn from it. People often say that experience teaches. I wish it did. People are what they are, not for want of experiences. There is experience enough in everyone's life. If we had to learn only from our own experience, human civilization would not be where it is today. It is not for want of experiences that people do not know; it is because they do not learn from them. Learning comes with initiative. When you make use of an opportunity to learn, it is taking the initiative. In order to know a particular subject, you have to make an initiative. Discovering love is no different. You have to make the initiative to know, to discover what love is. If you can command a degree of love that is free from division, then I would say that you are mature. The loving person will be naturally compassionate, naturally sympathetic, understanding, giving, and yielding. It undergoes various changes as the objects you relate to differ.

existent and unreal, then Knowledge itself becomes a sort of obscurity and a source of imperfection. We become as men blinded by a light so that we can no longer see the field which that light illumines. Such is the teaching, calm, wise and clear, of our most ancient sages. They had the patience and the strength to find and to know; they had also the clarity and humility to admit the limitation of our knowledge.

cient wisdom perceived that to know God really, it must know Him everywhere equally and without distinction, considering and valuing but not mastered by the oppositions through which He shines. We will put aside then the trenchant distinctions of a partial logic which declares that because the One is the reality, the Many are an illusion, and because the Absolute is Sat, the one existence, the relative is Asat and non-existent. If in the Many we pursue insistently

absolute a value to us than the perception of the materialized mind that God and the Beyond are an illusory idea. In the one case the mind, habituated only to the evidence of the senses and associating reality with corporeal fact, is either unaccustomed to use other means of knowledge or unable to extend the notion of reality to a supraphysical experience. In the other case the same mind, passing beyond to the overwhelm-

God is to be known everywhere, equally, without distinction If we exclude the field of that Ignorance, if we get rid of Avidya as if it were a thing non-existent and unreal, then Knowledge itself becomes a sort of obscurity and a source of imperfection Sri Aurobindo

They perceived the borders where it has to pass into something beyond itself. It was a later impatience of heart and mind, vehement attraction to an ultimate bliss or high masterfulness of pure experience and trenchant intelligence which sought the One to deny the Many and because it had received the breath of the heights scorned or recoiled from the secret of the depths. But the steady eye of the an-

the One, it is to return with the benediction and the revelation of the One confirming itself in the Many. We will guard ourselves also against the excessive importance that the mind attaches to particular points of view at which it arrives in its more powerful expansions and transitions. The perception of the spiritualized mind that the universe is an unreal dream can have no more

ing experience of an incorporeal reality, simply transfers the same inability and the same consequent sense of dream or hallucination to the experience of the senses. But we perceive also the truth that these two conceptions disfigure. Excerpted from Chapter V, The Destiny of the Individual, in Life Divine. The 142nd birth anniversary of Sri Aurobindo will be celebrated on August 15

I am happy when I see myself as a loving person. If you are not happy, you can neither love nor be loving. Since we do not often come across such loving persons, we look upon a very loving person as a saint. That person becomes special, a holy person. However, the fact is that everyone has the potential to be a saint. Saintliness is one's own nature. It

is why our Shastra completely differs from theologies and religious preaching. The first inhibiting factor is ignorance and this is not easy to remove. Even if you have had the opportunity to study the Shastra, emotional problems can hold the cognitive person hostage. The emotional person appears to have the power to decide how loving I

where that things are given, and are not separate from the giver, Isvara, who is in the form of one total order consisting of many orders. It is your own anxieties, fears, your agenda for others that separates you from the world, from understanding. Without this appreciation of Isvara, you cannot enjoy your family, much less your children. You

No cultivating love; just neutralize inhibiting factors Things are given, and are not separate from the giver, Isvara, who is in the form of one total order. It is your own anxieties, fears, your agenda for others that separates you from the world, from understanding is characterized by love, compassion, understanding, sympathy, giving, a readiness to help and much more. In day-to-day life, the opposite seems to be the norm. People are more prone to hatred, jealousy, dislike and so on. These opposing traits inhibit the natural ones. Consequently, we do not need to cultivate love; we have to neutralize the inhibiting factors. That

can be or how happy-even how cognitive. It is very important, therefore, to understand the emotional person. In order to understand our emotions, we need some inner space, for which we need a cognitive change. We have to learn to relax in the awareness, in the understanding, of our emotions. This relaxation is born of understanding the reality of the world. We have seen else-

For each and every person, our Lord and Master provides sustenance. Why are you so afraid, O mind? The flamingos fly hundreds of miles, leaving their young ones behind. Who feeds them, and who teaches them to feed themselves? Have you ever thought of this in your mind? - Guru Nanak True Realisation of the actual nature of this material world, its perishable, transitory and illusory aspects best dawns on a person in suffering. - Guru Tegh Bahadur They, who have no eyes in their face, are not called blind. They alone are blind, O Nanak, who stray away from their Lord. - Guru Angad He Himself makes the mortals anxious, and He Himself takes the anxiety away. - Guru Amar Das The Lord of man and beast is working in all; His presence is scattered everywhere; There is none else to be seen. - Guru Arjan Dev

Swami Dayananda Saraswati

are unable to share their childhood, their growing years, the friendship of their adulthood. Your anxiety for their future, providing for their security prevent you from reaching out to them freely, wholeheartedly. Excerpted from 'Discovering Love' at avgsatsang.org. The 84th birth anniversary of Swami Dayananda Saraswati will be celebrated on August 15

O Nanak, if a blind man goes to assay jewels, he shall not know their worth and shall return after making an exhibition of himself. - Guru Angad The greatest comforts and lasting peace are obtained, when one eradicates selfishness from within. - Guru Gobind Singh

You Insure all your Valuables, all are replaceable except YOU! So Insure yourself FIRST. Call Sahanis, (Arish, Priya or Shiv) for your Insurance needs 718- 271- 0453. Serving for last 35 yrs

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India Post

August 15, 2014

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US appears keener to repair ties with India

India Post Shah of BJP

CHINTAMANI MAHAPATRA

fter months of down Minister Sushma Swaraj to choose over airline security, pharmaceutigrading its engage- Bangladesh for her first foreign cal business, solar panel manufacment with the Indian visit; signaled that Modi would turing, Indian steel and several government, US Presi- maintain relationships with the US, other issues that constituted headline news should not be allowed dent Barack Obama's administra- and its allies on his own terms. The Obama Administration, on to affect Indo-US ties in other artion has woken up to the new reality of a transformed political pro- the other hand, did not take things eas. In fact, Kerry came to India like file in New Delhi, and has managed lying down. The US' persistence is reflected in the fact that thirteen a diplomatic sales-executive to to alter its diplomatic course. The Devyani Khobragade epi- officials from Washington have promote cooperation in the energy sode had cast a shadow over the already visited New Delhi to es- sector; Commerce Secretary much-trumpeted US-India strate- tablish contacts with their coun- Penny Pritzker came to impress upon India the importance of signgic partnership. It was followed terparts at various levels. Three cabinet level officers, the ing the Trade Facilitation Act by disturbing headlines on the bilateral, when the May 2014 na- US Secretary of State, the US Com- (TFA) at the World Trade Organitional election catapulted merce Secretary and the US Sec- zation and Defense Secretary Narendra Modi and his party, the retary of Defense visited India and Chuck Hagel, during his visit, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), to met Prime Minister Modi, along sought to discuss defense deals the centre-stage of Indian politics. with others, to kick-start the mo- worth billions of dollars. Clearly, India's civil nuclear liThe massive popular man- mentum in the bilateral relations. Next month, Modi will head to ability act is a roadblock to fulfill date to the BJP has meant a stable central government for next five Washington for his first summit Secretary Kerry's desire for fullyears in India that effectively re- with Obama. While the US cabi- fledged energy cooperation and places decades-long coalition poli- net level officials visited Delhi to the Modi government's firm decitics and a recent tendency towards prepare for the Obama-Modi sum- sion to not sacrifice India's food security policy at the federalization of InTFA's altar is a disapdian foreign policy pointment for Secremaking. tary Penny. The difficulty for While the Kerrythe US was to begin Penny visit to India dialoguing with the coincided with the new Indian vote on the FTA at the strongman who WTO, and India's rewas, for years, defusal to lend its supnied a US visa. port overshadowed There is no parallel their visit, Hagel's visit in the US history to to India pumped some the denial of a visa positive energy into to a three-time chief the bilateral relationminister of a demoship. Compared to the cratic country. India-US economic and However, the US' diplomatic ties, depragmatism has alfense ties between the ways been legendtwo countries appear ary. Soon after it was more cooperative and clear that Narendra less controversial. Modi would lead the Despite differences next government in Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US Secretary of State John over pricing, technolIndia, Obama dialed Kerry (L) and US Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker (R) during a meeting in New Delhi ogy transfer, the Com'M' for Modi, conmunications gratulated him and invited him to visit Washington at mit in September, surprisingly, Interoperability and Security an agreeable time. Modi's pragma- none at the cabinet level from In- Memorandum of Agreement, and end-user agreement, India was the tism has been equally legendary dia has visited Washington yet. It appears that more than New largest market for US weapons last and he promptly concurred. Modi, nonetheless, gave no Delhi, it is Washington that is year and has already purchased impression whatsoever that he keen to bury the past and move $10 billion worth of defense equipwas too eager to make a trip to a ahead to repair the relationship ment over the past decade. Unlike the recent US initiatives country that refused him access and build further. Significantly, US for an alleged violation of human Secretary of State John Kerry towards India, the Modi rights that had been cleared by the stated during his visit that he government's plans and proposSupreme Court of India. His deci- would not like to dig the past and als to better ties with Washington sion to invite the SAARC heads that, in any case, Modi was de- still have a veil of secrecy. The of states to his inauguration; nied visa by the previous Repub- government is still in its infancy, choosing Bhutan for his first for- lican Administration. In fact, a post though. Nonetheless, one expects eign visit; postpone a planned visit on Twitter mentioned that Presi- clarity of Modi's moves towards to Tokyo; but miss no chance to dent Obama was unaware of the the US during his September summit with Obama. meet with the Chinese and Rus- denial of visa to Modi. The writer is Professor, School Similarly, one could make the sian leaders at the BRICS summit; and to ask his External Affairs point that the US-India differences of International Studies, JNU

ext only to Narendra Modi, the BJP victory in national elections was shaped by Amit Shah, recently confirmed as party president at the BJP's annual convention in New Delhi. Shah has now set an ambitious target asking cadres to ensure BJP victory in the forthcoming assembly elections in the states of Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Haryana and Jammu & Kashmir. In Maharashtra, the BJP has always played second fiddle to the locally strong Shiv Sena. The situation might be changing. For the first time the BJP got more Lok Sabha seats (22) this time to Shiv Sena's 20. Shah expects a similar scenario in the assembly elections and has projected that the BJP will form government there with Shiv Sena support. This project has the possibility of friction with the sister party Shiv Sena which this time is weakened because of the split with Raj Thackeray heading his own separate Sena and Udhav heading the original Sena. The two cousins have both claimed thy want the chief ministership but with the split their votes will be divided and the BJP most likely will steal a march. Shah has also proposed going it alone in Haryana where a desperate Congress chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda is resorting to all kind of gimmicks to retain power. He has even been able to divide the Akalis by passing a law in the assembly to break away from the Amritsar based Sri Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee (SGPC) and create a separate Haryana Gurudwara Prabhandak Committee (HGPC). The move has enraged the Akali party of Punjab and there was danger of confrontation but the intervention of the Supreme Court and the order of Home Minister Rajnath Singh has restrained the two parties. SGPC is a very rich body prospering on gurduwara donations and whoever controls it controls not only the money but also the politics of the area. That is why Punjab chief minister Prakash Singh Badal is fuming and is asking the Central government to intervene. With Hooda and the Akalis facing anti-incumbency, the situation is ripe for BJP to exploit. That is why Shah's directive to go it alone in Haryana. In Jammu & Kashmir also the fortunes of BJP are looking up. With the Abdullah dynasty on the wane, the PDP of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed is likely to win the majority of seats in the valley and the BJP will bag Jammu seats as was evident in the Lok Sabha elections. The National Conference of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah did not win a single seat with his father and legendry Farooq Abdullah also lost his seat in Parliament. The prospects are for an alliance between ideologically poles apart BJP and the PDP. Here also Shah has asked the cadres to get active and campaign for a big victory for the BJP. Another major feature of the convention was the emphasis given by both Modi and Shah on a "Congress Mukt" Bharat. The Congress may have been reduced to a rump in Lok Sabha but it has enough strength in the Rajya Sabha to block Modi projects. And till 2017, there are going to be 17 more assembly elections apart from the imminent elections in Maharashtra, Haryana, Jharkhand and J&K. Modi knows victory in most of these states will give him a majority in the Upper House and enable him to get the legislations he wants passed. Assembly elections in Jharkhand are scheduled to be held by the end of the year. In the General Elections, the Congress was rejected and no party is willing to align with it now. The BJP bagged 12 seats out of the 14 and the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha secured two seats. The BJP thus is on better ground here and veteran LK Advani has already declared that Yashwant Sinha, a former NDA finance minister, is the 'right person' to be the chief minister of Jharkhand.

August 15, 2014

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