Indian Abroad - Feb 16-28, 2022

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

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Quad meets with free and open Indo-Pacific agenda, condemns terror attacks in India IANS

Deepak-Raj Gupta IndianAustralian politician honoured with OAM for service to community - Page 5

With hijab row, communal cauldron returns in Coastal Karnataka - Page 4

New Delhi/Melbourne, Feb 11: The Foreign Ministers of Australia, India, and Japan, and the US Secretary of State met in Melbourne on Friday for the fourth Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting, where they reaffirmed their commitment to supporting efforts to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific Indian Cooking with Lata Modi -Page 7

Indian film bags honour at documentary film festival in Sydney SBS.com

BrisAsia Festival 2022 launched, artists showcase spectacular talents -Page 8

Carry these essentials on your next train ride -Page 22

- a region which is inclusive and resilient, and in which states strive to protect the interests of their people, free from coercion.

The Quad Foreign Ministers deliberated on regional challenges, including humanitarian assistance and disaster response (HADR),

maritime security, counter-terrorism, countering disinformation, and cyber security. It was also decided that Japan is going to host the next Quad Leaders' Summit in the first half of 2022.

The Quad recognises that international law, peace, and security in the maritime domain underpins the development and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific and reiterates the importance of adherence to international law, particularly as reflected in the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), to meet challenges to the maritime rules-based order, including in the South and East China Seas with deepened engagement with regional partners, including through capacity-building and technical assistance, to strengthen maritime domain awareness, protect their ability to develop offshore resources, consistent with UNCLOS, ensure freedom of navigation and overflight, combat challenges, such as illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and promote the safety and security of sea lanes of communication, read the joint statement issued after the

P

ayal Kapadia's documentary “A Night of Knowing Nothing” has bagged the top prize at the 10th Antenna Documentary Film Festival in Sydney.

The film was named Best Feature Documentary, with a $10,000 prize on 14th February.

The jury was all praises for the documentary and said that the movie must be celebrated for its exceptional beauty and power as it is a lyrical love story interwoven with impassioned youths’ defiant politics and challenge to the status quo. A multidimensional movie with remarkable use of archival and sound, it is an urgent call to action that resonates far beyond the film’s Continued on page 8 borders.

Shepparton-based processing company popularizes unhomogenised milk among Indian community

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Bhakti and the Narada Sutras -Page 23

Mehendi Trends 2022 -Page 27

tarting as a bakery in the industrial part of Shepparton, a small processing company has been setting a new and unique trend in the sprawling dairy town.

Kisaan, which means "farmer" in Punjabi, commenced making Indian-style cheese in 2016 before transitioning to unhomogenised milk.

The owners, Jaspreet Singh and Surinder Singh (unrelated) met in Melbourne after arriving in Australia in 2006 and worked as taxi drivers and truck drivers prior to starting a dairy processor.

When Jaspreet Singh had moved to Shepparton, he was aware that it was the prime centre for dairy farms and mass production of milk was occurring in the region. He was also aware that there was a huge Indian community whose numbers were soaring annually.

Continued on page 6

meeting.

The Quad is exchanging information on ever-evolving threats and working with Indo-Pacific countries, and in multilateral fora, to counter all forms of terrorism and violent extremism and denounces the use of terrorist proxies for cross-border terrorism and urges countries to work together to eliminate terrorist safe havens, disrupt terrorist networks and the infrastructure and financial channels which sustain them, and halt cross-border movement of terrorists, it said.

In this context, Quad reiterates its condemnation of terrorist attacks in India, including the 26/11 Mumbai and Pathankot attacks and reaffirms UNSC Resolution 2593 (2021) that Afghan territory should not be used to threaten or attack any country, shelter or train terrorists, or plan or finance terrorist acts, with such ungoverned spaces being a direct threat to the safety and security of the Indo-Pacific, said the joint statement.

As unwavering supporters of ASEAN unity and centrality, and the ASEANled architecture, Quad continues to

support ASEAN partners to advance the practical implementation of ASEAN's Outlook on the IndoPacific. Quad acknowledges the importance of sub-regional mechanisms and institutions, including in the Mekong sub-region. and will continue to support Cambodia in its important role as 2022 ASEAN Chair, it added.

In the meeting, it was noted that the Quad partners have collectively provided more than 500 million vaccine doses, and have pledged to donate more than 1.3 billion vaccine doses globally. It alo noted the Quad Vaccine Partnership's rapid progress in expanding vaccine production at the Biological E Ltd facility in India, which aims to deliver at least 1 billion vaccines by the end of 2022. Quad is also assisting to train healthcare workers, combat vaccine hesitancy, and augment infrastructure, especially cold chain systems, for 'last mile' vaccine delivery.

"We welcome the timely initiative for coordinating the response to combat the Covid pandemic under a Global Action Plan for Enhanced Engagement," the statement said.

Humara Bajaj, the original Make in India champion, passes away Pune (Maharashtra), Feb 12 (IANS): Renowned industrialist Rahul Bajaj -- the doyen of the Bajaj Group, who made his two-wheelers a household name with the catchy slogan 'Hamara Bajaj' -- passed away in Pune following a prolonged illness.

He was 83.

He was ailing from cancer for a long time and the end came at the Ruby Hospital at around 2.30 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, sending waves of grief in corporate and political circles.

Bajaj had taken charge of the Bajaj Group in 1965 and during his captaincy, the group soared to one of the biggest in the sub-continent.

As per available indications, his last rites shall be performed at the Vaikunth Crematorium on Sunday.

Top business and political leaders including his close family friend

and Nationalist Congress Party President Sharad Pawar, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan, Bharatiya Janata Party leaders Nitin Gadkari and Raosaheb Danve-Patil, Leader of Opposition Devendra Fadnavis and others condoled Bajaj's passing.

Continued on page 11

Australia, India to sign agreement on travel and tourism

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an Tehan, Australia’s Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, recently visited India to sign an agreement promoting travel and tourism between the two countries. The announcement comes as Australia prepares to reopen its borders to all double-vaccinated visa holders, including tourists, on February 21.

Mr Tehan was in India to take forward talks on a free trade agreement and market Australia as a top student and tourist destination.

Indian Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs and Food, and Public Distribution and Textiles Piyush Goyal, met with him multiple times.

Continued on page 6

Pooja Hegde’s extra efforts to ensure her roles in movies don’t get sidelined -Page 30

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Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

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Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

ELECTIONS

Battle for UP: Congress banks on 'outsiders' in Amethi, Rae Bareli

M.K. Stalin remains nightmare for BJP in TN: Udayanidhi Stalin IANS

Chennai, Feb 10: DMK youth wing secretary and Member of Legislative Assembly, Udayanidhi Stalin has said that Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin remains a nightmare for

the BJP in the state.

Referring to the speech of Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Parliament, Udayanidhi said that BJP will not have a foothold in the state of Tamil

Nadu.

The DMK youth wing leader, who is also the son of Chief Minister Stalin, was campaigning for the party candidates at Kallukulam and East gate areas of Thanjavur district on Thursday.

He called upon the party cadres and sympathisers to work hard for the victory of party candidates and allies as only nine days were left for the Urban local body elections to be held on February 19.

The DMK youth leader said that the party cadres and sympathisers would conduct a door-to-door campaign to ensure the victory of party candidates and allies.

He said that in a short span of eight months since coming to power in May 2021, the DMK government has fulfilled many promises made

out and vote in the first phase of polling in Uttar Pradesh.

She tweeted, "Brothers and sisters of western UP use the power of vote to build better future, colleagues of UP Congress best wishes you should

be feeling proud that after 30 years Congress is fighting on all the seats with full strength."

She invoked Bhagavad Gita which says, "Do your work without fear of the results - You only have a right to do your duty (karma) and not to the results of your karma (actions) Do not become a person who constantly meditates upon the results of one's karma. Do not get attached to inactivity. (Karmanye Vadhikaraste, Ma phaleshou kada chana...)".

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also made an appeal to the voters. He tweeted in Hindi, saying: "Come out and vote, get country freedom from all fear".

The voting is underway in the western UP where BJP has high stakes.

Voting began in the 58 Assembly constituencies in the first of the seven-phase elections, covering 11 districts of western Uttar Pradesh.

The 11 districts where polling is being held include Shamli, Meerut, Hapur, Muzaffarnagar, Baghpat,

during assembly elections and called upon the cadres and party workers to take this to the people of the wards.

Udayanidhi Stalin listed the promises fulfilled by the DMK government that included disbursement of Rs 4000 per family as Covid -19 lockdown assistance, free bus travel concession for women, reduction in the prices of petrol and milk, the scheme of doorstep medical treatment, and of one lakh electricity connections for agriculture.

He said that when the DMK government came to power the state was at the peak of the second Covid -19 wave and said that after overcoming that challenge heavy rains struck the state leading to several losses which were also managed properly by the government.

Battle for UP: Priyanka tweets 'shloka' from Bhagavad Gita IANS

New Delhi, Feb 10 (IANS): Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Thursday tweeted a 'shloka' from the Bhagavad Gita which says 'do work, whatever the results are' as she appealed voters to come

Ghaziabad, Bulandshahr, Aligarh, Agra, Gautam Buddha Nagar and Mathura. Nearly 2.27 crore voters will exercise their right.

This phase is crucial for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) which had won 53 of these 58 seats in 2017.

Of the remaining five seats, the Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) won two each, while the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) had bagged one.

The BJP victory in the region was not just big but also comprehensive.

The party won 23 of the 53 seats with a victory margin of over 20 per cent votes.

The SP and the RLD, which are contesting the 2022 elections in an alliance and are the principal challengers to the ruling BJP, will need to make huge gains here if they hope to unseat Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

While the SP was runners-up in 15 seats and third in 14, the RLD was runners-up in only three and in third position in 11 seats.

11L people viewed Rahul's Punjab virtual rally, Channi to be CM face

Ludhiana, Feb 7: A virtual rally in Punjab titled "Aawaz Punjab Di" addressed by former Congress President Rahul Gandhi from Ludhiana has broken all records after its live telecast was viewed by 11 lakh people on social media,

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according to the party.

The virtual rally was held on Sunday. Congress Social Media Head, Rohan Gupta said, "The unique thing about the rally was the large audience of more than 90,000 people, who watched the rally live,

simultaneously at the same time on the Facebook page of Rahul Gandhi.

With the current views of 8.8 lakh, 42,000 comments, 1.1 million reach and 6000 shares, making it one of the most successful virtual rallies."

The rally was telecast on virtual

mediums or social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube along with live LED screens across all districts of Punjab.

The party claimed 90,000 live views on Facebook Live are unprecedented for any political leader in India, showing the massive impact and curiosity about the rally.

The rally amassed massive curiosity as the Chief Ministerial face for Congress for 2022 Punjab Assembly elections was to be announced. Charanjit Singh Channi was announced as the state Chief Ministerial face by Rahul Gandhi.

"It is Punjab's decision. It is not my decision. I didn't decide. I asked workers, candidates, MLAs, people and youth of Punjab. What people said has led me to my final decision," said Gandhi during his address at the 'Aawaz Punjab Di' virtual rally.

He praised Channi for his humble background.

Getting emotional on the announcement of his name as Chief Minister, Channi said that he has always been honest and never taken money from anyone, and will continue to work honestly.

The rally was also addressed by important leaders of Punjab Congress such as Sunil Jakhar, Navjot Singh Sidhu, Charanjit Singh Channi and All India Congress Committee state in-charge Harish Chaudhary.

/IndianAbroadNews

Lucknow, Feb 8 (IANS): The Congress, after the exodus of leaders from the party, is now banking on turncoats to contest the elections in Rae Bareli and Amethi - once considered its bastions.

In Amethi, the Congress has fielded Ashish Shukla who owed allegiance to the BJP before joining the Congress.

In Jagdishpur assembly segment in Amethi, the Congress candidate Vijay Pasi, has come from the Samajwadi Party.

However, Amethi is not the only assembly constituency where the Congress has fielded leaders from other parties.

In Rae Bareli too, the party fielded candidates who do not belong to the party’s cadres.

In Harchandpur, where the Congress MLA Rakesh Singh joined the BJP, the party has opted for former minister Surendra Vikram Singh (who owed allegiance to the SP).

It has fielded Sudha Dwivedi from Sareni assembly seat who was reportedly seeking a ticket from the BJP. The Congress candidate from Unchahar Atul Singh was also seeking a ticket from the BJP. Both agreed to contest on a Congress ticket after their claim was ignored by the BJP. “Two of our sitting MLAs from Rae Bareli - Rakesh Singh (Harchandpur) and Aditi Singh - have joined the BJP and we have to look outside the party for new candidates,” admitted a party leader.

He said, “The Congress does not have strong candidates from its cadres in Rae Bareli and Amethi. So, the party has relied on outsiders.

This may be called a good strategy if selection of candidates works in the Congress’ favour.”

Those fielded from within the Congress include Manish Singh Chauhan from Rae Bareli assembly seat and Sushil Pasi from Bachhrawan assembly seat.

The Congress has fielded district Congress committee president Pradeep Singhal from Tiloi assembly seat of Amethi. Fateh Mohammad has been fielded from Gauriganj assembly seat of Amethi while Arjun Pasi will contest from the Salon assembly seat.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi represents the Rae Bareli seat in the Lok Sabha while party leader Rahul Gandhi, who was the MP from Amethi from 2004 to 2019, lost to union minister Smriti Irani in 2019.

Channi, whose nephew is charged with unaccounted Rs 10 cr, cannot be poor CM: Sukhbir IANS

Ludhiana, Feb 7: Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) President Sukhbir Singh Badal on Monday said a chief minister from whose frontman and nephew Rs 10 crore in cash and gold and ill-gotten property papers of Rs 56 crore had been recovered by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) could not be called poor by any yardstick.

The SAD chief was answering a query regarding Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's claim that Channi was a poor chief minister.

He said it was clearly known that Channi, who had graduated from delineating illegal colonies to becoming a sand mafia kingpin, was worth more than Rs 500 crore. "If we are to use Rahul Gandhi's yardstick to measure Channi's wealth then even the Gandhi family is very poor."

Asserting that Channi had not only betrayed Punjabis but even the scheduled caste community as well as weaker sections of society, Badal asked Channi to explain why he had never raised his voice in favour of the scheduled caste community and weaker sections.

He said it was a fact that Channi was a cabinet minister for nearly five years before becoming the chief minister.

"However he did not raise his voice to protect the interest of 4.5 lakh scheduled caste students who were not only denied SC scholarship but whose scholarship was embezzled by his cabinet colleague Sadhu Singh Dharamsot."

He said similarly Channi did not object to scrapping of lakhs of blue cards which entitled weaker sections to subsidized ration.

Badal also made it clear that no

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amount of announcements of the chief ministerial face could save the Congress party.

"The Congress party's ship is sinking by the day in Punjab."

When queried, Badal said Pradesh Congress chief Navjot Sidhu had maintained that he would not work as a showpiece horse but now Rahul Gandhi had not only tied the horse but also locked it in the stable.

When queried about AAP convener Arvind Kejriwal, the SAD President said five years back Kejriwal had asked for votes by making grandiose promises to Punjabis.

"However he did not come back to the state for five years. Eleven of his 20 legislators even left the party. Today he has come back to the state to sell party tickets and earn crores of rupees. He has even given tickets to history sheeters and those with shady pasts. AAP's Ludhiana North candidate Madan Lal Bagga was expelled from the SAD following complaints of his questionable dealings. The party's Ludhiana Central candidate is a rape accused. AAP's Sanaur candidate is a proclaimed offender and has now left the campaign midway."

Badal also addressed public gatherings in support of R.D. Sharma in Ludhiana North during his tour to the city.

He said the law and order situation had totally collapsed during Congress rule because its ministers and legislators patronized gangsters.

"This is why extortions and ransom calls became the norm during the last five years."

He promised to put an end to the gangster culture once and for all.

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Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

HIJAB ROW With hijab row, communal cauldron returns in Coastal Karnataka IANS

Bengaluru, Feb 3: Communal cauldron in Coastal Karnataka region is back to bubbling with the hijab row as the controversy is threatening to engulf the entire state dividing students on communal basis.

Considered as the bastion of ruling BJP and strong Hindutva ground, the Coastal Karnataka comprising the districts of Dakshina Kannada, Uttara Kannada and Udupihas, has always been seen as a communally sensitive region.

The region surfaced at the global level for moral policing, active ISIS modules, and attacks on churches, communal tensions and cases of love jihad. Yasin Bhatkal, listed in NIA's most wanted until his arrest and who has been sentenced to death, and Shafi Armar, whose photographs as ISIS commander in Syria, also hail from the coastal region.

The NIA has submitted charge sheet against Deepthi Marla a.k.a Maryam, the granddaughter-in-law of Congress Late MLA Idinabba from Dakshina Kannada district for running a terrorist network in Karnataka and recruiting gullible Muslim youth to terrorist outfit ISIS. During the Congress government headed by Siddaramaiah, as many as 18 youths associated with Hindu organisations were lynched. Each of the murders have caused simmering communal tensions between the Hindus and Muslims in the coastal districts. While the BJP demanded a ban on Popular Front of India (PFI) and its political wing Social Democratic Party of India (SDPI), the progressive organisations squarely blamed Hindu organisations for the situation.

Riding on the Hindutva wave, ruling BJP managed to win most of the seats in the coastal region in the last Assembly elections. In Dakshina Kannada district Congress managed to retain only one seat. Ruling BJP is claiming that, since Karnataka is stepping into the election year and Assembly elections are scheduled for 2023, various forces are in action for dividing votes with these moves.

However, Congress and SDPI level the same allegations on ruling BJP. The hijab row started with six students of Government Udupi Pre-University College being sent out of classes for wearing veils along with uniform a month ago. The

students have demanded that they should be allowed to wear hijab as it is their constitutional and religious right. However, college management flatly refused their demand saying that the rule which has been in place since decades regarding uniforms does not allow wearing of hijab.

The ruling BJP has constituted a high-level committee to look into the issue of allowing hijab with uniform to colleges and schools. Though, there is government order, the protesting Muslim students are saying that they will not shun hijab no matter what. They have also moved to the High Court seeking directions to the government to allow them to wear hijab to classrooms.

Meanwhile, the hijab row is threatening to snowball into a big crisis in the state as the trend is being replicated by other colleges leading to create communal divide between student communities. Hindu students in other colleges have starting to attend classes in saffron shawls to counter the wearing of hijab by Muslim girl students. The hijab versus saffron shawl issue surfaced Kundapur Pre-University College in Udupi district, Bhandarkar's College in Kundapur and Sir M Vishweshwaraya Government College Arts and Commerce Degree College in Bhadravathi of Shivamogga district.

Araga Jnanendra, Karnataka Home Minister stated that the directions have already been given to the police department to take up the investigation on communal forces behind the hijab row in the state.

"The investigation is underway. We will not spare the elements which come in the way of unity of this country," he stated.

"Naquab, burqa, hijab, saffron or green shawls are not allowed in the classrooms. The minister for Education has already stated that uniforms are compulsory for students. There should not be any divisive factors in the academic environment. There are mosques, churches and temples for religious practices," the Home Minister explained. "With these developments, the etiquette of integrity is being challenged," he added.

Education Minister B.C. Nagesh has stated that until the report of the high-level committee is given and the government takes a call

on the issue, wearing of hijab is not allowed in the classrooms.

Protesting Muslim students have defied the orders and Hindu students have started to come to colleges wearing saffron shawls.

They claim that if Muslims shun hijabs, they won't come to colleges in saffron attire which symbolises Hindutva. The college managements are in a fix over how the situation is unfolding and turning towards the government.

Muneer Katipalla, President of Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) while speaking to IANS stated that, since more than three-and-a-half decades, the coastal region in Karnataka has been made Hindutva laboratory by RSS. Now, Popular Front of India (PFI) is growing stronger like RSS among Muslims. Since both organisations have made the coastal districts as laboratories for their communal agendas, the situation has gone to the extreme levels here.

PFI and SDPI have won few seats in local elections and they are aggressively pursuing their agenda.

Their philosophy is to counter RSS with its own strategy. At the Udupi Government Pre-University College there was no permission for wearing hijab. However, Government College at Kundapur hijab was allowed.

The entire academic atmosphere is spoiled, Muneer Katipalla explained.

The insecurity among Muslims in the region is growing. Earlier, students protested for price rise, bus pass, employment, fee hike, commercialization of education, unemployment, now it has come down to hijab and saffron shawls.

The students must focus on education. The government must allow both hijab and saffron shawls, the problem will subside in some time, he explained.

There is an opportunity for children belonging to different faiths to study together at college and high school levels. Now, there are demands that these students can go to the respective religious institutions so that they don't have problems with wearing hijab. If that happens, it will be more dangerous and how will you bring Indianness among student community, Muneer Katipalla questions.

Lavanya Ballal, AICC Spokesperson and AICC Social Media Coordinator stated to IANS, the foundation stone of the nation is unity in diversity.

"Youngsters of coastal Karnataka should focus on education, it is the only way up further. Focus on building you your lives, do not get caught in political war because they only want you to be political stooges. Coastal Karnataka since last two decades known for religious acrimony. What we need to understand is we need big investments by IT and other companies at coastal Karnataka as youth needs jobs that should be our focus. The jobs will only come to coastal Karnataka if there is peace and harmony. With peace and harmony we will prosper.

Please do not becomes the pawns of political games," she underlines.

K’taka HC resumes hearing pleas on hijab row Bengaluru, Feb 15 (IANS): The full bench of the Karnataka High Court comprising Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, Justice Krishna S. Dixit and Justice Khaji Jaibunnesa Mohiyuddin on Tuesday afternoon resumed hearing of petitions seeking directions to the state government to allow wearing of hijab in classrooms.

This is the third day of hearing by the three judge bench. The petitioner for girl students seeking order to attend classes wearing hijab will complete his submission through senior advocate Devdatt Kamat.

On Monday, he had argued that the government can't deny fundamental rights to students in the pretext of managing law and order situations.

He also objected to the powers given to the College Development Committee to decide on uniforms.

On Monday, the bench had also www.indianabroad.news

refused to restrain media from reporting the proceedings as one of the counsel demanded that it will have effect on the elections of other states. The court had earlier given an interim order that no religious symbols are allowed for the students in schools and colleges until the final court. The order banned both hijab and saffron shawls in the school and college premises.

The larger bench also set aside the arguments of petitioners seeking orders to the government for allowing students to wear hijab of the colour of their uniform to classrooms.

However, petitioners moved the Supreme Court challenging the interim order banning hijab in classrooms. The state government has resumed classes till standard 10 and Pre-University Colleges are opening from Wednesday.

'Wearing hijab will protect Muslim women from getting raped': K'taka Congress MLA Dharwad, Feb 14 (IANS): Karnataka Congress MLA B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan stirred a controversy here on Sunday by stating that incidents of rape are on high in India and wearing hijab will protect Muslim women from getting raped in the country.

Defending his statement, MLA Khan has stated that he only gave his point of view and he doesn't know what others think on the issue. "The beauty of women is not supposed to be exposed. No one should set their eyes upon them. Muslim women have been wearing hijab since long back," he maintained.

"Few people among us do not wear hijab. It is not mandatory to wear hijab, however I have asked our women to wear hijab for their safety.

Please come to debate with me after getting the statistics of rape in the country," he added.

He maintained that according to Islam "everyone should perform namaz for five times" but many do not perform. "If women wear hijab, the incidents of rape would come down," he said.

Earlier in the evening, the Congress MLA in Hubballi has stated, "Hijab means purda in Islam and if women don't wear hijab there are chances of them getting raped. Why there is an increase in rape cases in the country? It is because women are not behind purda (hijab). Women should wear hijab to conceal their beauty.".

"Wearing hijab is right of Muslim women. They have been wearing hijab for hundreds of years. The government took the issue very lightly when it began."

Further students as the assets of the nation, the Congress MLA said, "Ruling BJP is using students for political gains and they are ready to sacrifice anybody to attain power."

13 Muslim girls boycott exam in K'taka district, majority attend Bengaluru, Feb 14: Even as the majority of Muslim students in Karnataka on Monday attended classes without wearing hijab as per the High Court's interim order, 13 students from the Government High School in Shivamogga district refused to take the SSLC (Class 10) preparatory examination after being asked to remove hijab.

The students of Government Public School of Shivamogga district were stopped by teachers and asked to remove their hijab. The students, however, outrightly refused to shun hijab and demanded that they be allowed to write exams.

The teachers and school management tried to convince them by asking them to write exams in a separate room without a hijab.

However, the students rejected the offer and decided to boycott the examination. Parents of the girls, who reached school there, also supported their children and took them home saying that without hijab they can't attend classes.

Aliya Mehat, a student who boycotted the exam for hijab, said, "The court is yet to give order, whatever it is we will not take off hijab. It is okay if we don't write exams. Exams are not important for me, religion is important. We will not come to

school if hijab is not made mandatory. My parents have asked me to come back home, if asked to take off my hijab," she said. However, more than 100 other Muslim girls, who are studying in the school, attended the classes without a hijab.

Meanwhile, Congress legislators attended the joint session of the assembly wearing black badges amid hijab row under the leadership of Opposition leader Siddaramaiah.

The party maintained that they were "protesting the collapse of

constitutional values during the administration of the BJP in the state."

Kaneez Fathima, the Congress MLA attended the first day session clad in hijab. While taking part in a protest against restrictions on wearing hijab

by Muslim students, she had said that she would attend the Assembly session in hijab and dared the ruling party to stop her. BJP MLC D.S. Arun attended the council wearing a saffron shawl.

Classes reopen in K'taka amid tension; HC to resume hijab row hearing today Bengaluru, Feb 14: Amid the prevailing tension in connection with the hijab row and the case being heard in the high court, schools reopened on Monday for students of Class 9 and 10 across Karnataka.

In most of the schools, the Muslim students attended classes without hijab and a few institutes allowed them to attend classes wearing hijab.

Police personnel have been deputed near all schools and authorities have made proper security arrangements near the premises of schools located in sensitive locations.

Home Minister Araga Jnanendra stated Monday morning that parents need not worry about their wards as all necessary steps have been taken by the education as well as the home department to maintain law and order situation. Peace meetings

have been conducted by the school authorities, education department officials, district authorities as well as parents for peaceful conduct of classes without confusion. "Peace meetings have to be conducted in all places, at all schools," the Home Minister stated.

Meanwhile, Bengaluru Urban District Commissioner J. Manjunath has given orders to the authorities to check and ensure measures taken to maintain law and order situation in and around schools. Assistant Commissioner Shivanna stated that he was visiting schools as per the directions of the DC to inspect schools. "So far the situation is normal and classes are being held normally all over the city," he stated.

The school management asked students to take off their burka

and hijab before entering school premises in the Nizamia school of Mysuru. The students took off their burka and hijab and went to classes in uniform. Though the students of the Government Urdu School of Jewargi in Kalaburagi district attended classes wearing hijab, the teachers informed students about the court order and asked them to remove the hijab.

Meanwhile, the Karnataka High Court will resume hearing on petitions seeking permission to wear hijab to classes Monday noon. In its interim order, the three bench judge has restrained students from wearing hijab as well as saffron shawls and any religious symbols. The court also directed the government to reopen schools and colleges.

RBI, govt working in complete harmony on crypto, says Sitharaman New Delhi, Feb 14: Crypto is back on the discussion table as Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das deliberated over the issue. The Finance Minister had announced in her Budget speech that the RBI will launch a block chain based digital currency next year. The government also proposed to tax digital assets.

"With RBI & Ministry, not just on crypto but on every other thing as well, I think there's complete harmony with which we're working,

/IndianAbroadNews

respecting each other's domain and also knowing what we've to do with each other's priorities & in the interest of the nation. There's no turfing here," said Sitharaman after the meeting.

"Like several other issues, this particular issue is internally under discussion b/w RBI & the Govt.

Whatever points we have, we discussed with the Govt. Beyond that I think I will not like to further elaborate," said Das. RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das had

/indianabroadnews

cushioned crypto investors just few days back saying "it is my duty to tell the investors who invest in cryptocurrencies to keep in mind that they are investing at their own risk and also need to keep in mind that the cryptocurrency has no underlying value, not even a tulip".

"Yes, the issue that was discussed between the Finance Minister and the RBI governor along with other issues and there's no difference of views on any of these, informed a Finance Ministry official requesting anonymity.

4

DESI ACHIEVERS

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

SEEMA CHAUHAN

Gold Coast’s widely acclaimed champion of multiculturalism and women empowerment “The empowered woman is powerful beyond measure and beautiful beyond description.” If this quote fits any woman perfectly, it would definitely have to be Gold Coast’s very own Seema Chauhan.

A

local resident of Gold Coast, Ms Seema Chauhan is passionately and actively involved in various community leadership roles. She is an enthusiastic champion of the multicultural society and the Indian diaspora along with the diverse races and ethnicities that inhabit Queensland’s South Eastern coastline.

Hailing from India where she was born and raised, Ms Chauhan has a Master of Business Administration degree (from Griffith University), a bachelor’s degree in Management (University of South Australia) and a Graduate certificate in Migration Law & Practice (Griffith University).

Ms Chauhan has been a proud resident of the Gold Coast for almost two decades, contributing to a vibrant and unique community. Her vast understanding of migration legislation, the education and training business, multilingual abilities, and highly developed cultural sensitivity have enabled her to take ambitious migrants by the hand and help them through their journey in Australia.

She has a diverse professional background in the Gold Coast, including her invaluable contribution to the hospitality industry, the creative

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arts (films), migration, education and training, and most recently in the not-for-profit sector, where she worked with communities earning tremendous recognition and leading social change. She has been running her own business, Abode Australia Migration, as a Registered Migration Agent since 2008.

Ms Chauhan is widely regarded as a Super-connector, having established connections with local politicians, bureaucrats, consular representatives, the governmental, non-profit, and private sectors, as well as individuals, to promote the different issues she is passionate about.

She's also worked with community radio stations (such as SBS Radio – Hindi and Punjabi), grants and fundraising, and as a Multicultural Ambassador for the Gold Coast Titans and the 2018 Commonwealth Games. She is also a popular community speaker on the Gold Coast.

Her common vision of a society that values gender diversity and intercultural inclusiveness is well known. She provided free migration assistance to qualified hopefuls in the aftermath of the epidemic, and her efforts were recognised when she was named one of Australia

Today's "10 Indian Origin Women Making a Difference in Australia" in March 2021. Study Gold Coast also praised Seema for her dedication and leadership in aiding members of the Gold Coast student community during COVID-19.

Ms Chauhan believes that her background and knowledge will enable her to effectively represent the community and have a beneficial impact on the area and its residents.

She is passionate about ensuring a sustainable and inclusive process for women leaders and policymakers through a participatory, transparent governance style.

Ms Chauhan is also a full-time doting mother to two lovely teenagers, Sarah and Samah, and she has done admirably in her role as a mother for nearly 16 years.

Being passionate about the issues concerning women, she has participated in numerous initiatives such as gender equality and domestic abuse throughout the years. She is still tied to her roots in the Indian Himalayas, despite her involvement in these concerns in Australia. For the past 18 years, she has advocated for girls' education in rural Himalayan areas. She established

a scholarship in her father's name and continues to encourage girls' education through financial, moral, and other means.

Over the years, Ms Chauhan has donned multiple hats and won many accolades. To name a few, she has been the President of GOPIO (Global Organisation of People of Indian Organisation); Gold Coast Chapter (2021-2022). She has been and is also a volunteer committee member of the Australia India House Charitable Foundation (2021 and 2022). She is currently on the Grants and Fundraising Management Committee of Gold Coast Multiple Birth Association; marketing adviser for Australia India Film Council.

She was also the Multicultural Community Ambassador for the Commonwealth Games (2018).

She was awarded with a Certificate of Appreciation by Study Gold Coast for her leadership in assisting the Gold Coast Student Community during the pandemic and was also honoured with a Certificate of Appreciation by the Indian Community of Gold Coast last year.

/IndianAbroadNews

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5

COMMUNITY NEWS

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

Australia, India to sign agreement International students and backpackers welcomed back to Australia on travel and tourism Continued from page 1

According to an official statement made by the trade minister, the two continued to carry out a series of further negotiations on the IndiaAustralia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA).

“Goyal and I have been in regular contact over the Christmas/New Year period because we are both committed to concluding an interim free trade agreement. Nothing can replace face-to-face meetings to help speed up the process in the interest of both countries,” Mr Tehan said.

“Australia and India are important trading partners, and we share a strong desire to further enhance our bilateral trade relationship."

“A free trade agreement with India would be a boon for Australian businesses, farmers, and workers, creating new jobs and opportunities with one of the world’s largest and fastest developing economies.”

For both countries, economic cooperation has been a primary objective. Two-way trade has increased dramatically in recent years.

The two-way trade in goods and services between the two countries was $13.6 billion in 2007, and had surged to $24.3 billion by 2020.

India is Australia's seventh-largest commercial partner and the sixth-largest export market for coal and education.

In May 2011, the two parties started discussing a free trade agreement.

However, in 2015, the talks were halted due to differences on a number of areas, including agricultural and dairy goods.

So far, almost ten rounds of negotiations have been conducted. The two sides agreed in September to complete the long-awaited free trade agreement by the end of 2022, as well as an early harvest trade pact before that.

Both sides generally deregulate tariffs on specific goods prior to the implementation of a Free Trade Agreement in an early harvest trade agreement.

Canberra, February 3: Alex Hawke MP, Minister for Immigration, Citizenship, Migrant Services, and Multicultural Affairs, revealed on February 3 that international students and working holiday makers have arrived in large numbers in recent weeks.

"Australia is a business-friendly country. Minister Hawke stated, "We are bringing back a growing number of international students, backpackers, and skilled migrants."

"Ever since the Government announced a special Visa Application Charge (VAC) rebate window for persons who travel and arrive in Australia in the coming weeks, visa application rates have soared," he added.

“We are building back healthy pipelines of Working Holiday Makers, and we are processing these visas very quickly. The Government is seeing a surge in demand from backpackers and we are ready to welcome them to our shores,” he said.

“Confidence in Australia’s economic recovery is extremely strong.

Unemployment is at record lows, industry and government are providing incentives for workers to come to Australia, and we are ready to meet the demand. We all have a role to play in the economic recovery, filling vital skills shortages, and the Government is providing these incentives to encourage skilled workers to come to Australia now and fulfil these opportunities and participate in the phenomenal economic recovery that we are seeing in Australia right now,” he said.

“There are more jobs now available in Australia than before the COVID19-Pandemic, and there are still many more places available to Backpackers and Students that we are ready to fill, so come on down,” Minister Hawke said.

Australia is thrilled to have

F

ollowing a meeting of the national security cabinet on February 7, the Prime Minister remarked that it was nearly two years back when the decision to close the Australian borders had been taken.

"On the 21st of February this year," he said, “the borders will reopen to all visa holders,” and further said, "if you're double vaccinated, we look forward to welcoming you back to Australia."

In March 2020, Australia's borders were slammed shut in the hopes of safeguarding the island nation from

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a looming worldwide epidemic.

Since then, Australians have been prevented from leaving for the most part, and just a few visitors have been granted entry exemptions.

The stringent regulations have stranded Australians abroad, shattered families, harmed Australia's multibillion-dollar tourism economy, and sparked frequently acrimonious discussions about the country's position as a modern, open, and outward-looking society. According to the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, each month of border restrictions costs businesses an estimated US$2.6

billion. For Australians, long-term residents, and students, restrictions have been gradually reduced in recent months. Almost all remaining caps will be lifted as a result of the recent ruling.

It comes after the country's stoic "Covid-zero" policy was abandoned, vaccination rates inclined, and the once-outstanding track-and-trace system crumbled under the weight of a surge of Omicron cases. Only a few countries, like Japan, China, New Zealand, and numerous Pacific Island states, remain restricted to tourists.

The news brought joy to Australia's travel and tourist industry, which had been struggling due to an almost 98 percent drop in visitor numbers compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Tony Walker, managing director of the Quicksilver Group, which conducts cruises, diving, and resorts around the Great Barrier Reef, said, "We're quite excited about being able to reopen."

"The last several years have been tremendously challenging for us," he told AFP, inviting people from around the world to "come visit."

During the pandemic, the company's workforce shrank from 650 to 300 people.

Walker predicted that "it will take time to recover" from the previous two years.

Given the low number of backpackers and working holidaymakers visiting Australia, many tourism businesses are experiencing staff shortages.

Travel within Australia will remain restricted despite the announcement.

fully vaccinated skilled workers, International Students, and Working Holiday Makers, a total of 28,000 Working Holiday Maker visas have been approved, in accordance with the National Plan to safely reopen Australia.

In recent years, the Morrison Government has inked a number of new and expanded Working Holiday Maker agreements with partner countries, with a total of 45 partner countries or regions now participating in the programme.

Fully vaccinated International Students and Working Holiday Makers have been encouraged to return to Australia immediately to help our economic recovery and to begin their studies, thanks to the opening of a new Visa Application Charge (VAC) refund window for eligible travellers.

Working Holiday Maker visa holders (subclasses 417 or 462) who arrive in Australia between 19 January and 19 April 2022 are eligible for a VAC refund.

Student visa holders who arrive in Australia between 19 January 2022 and 19 March 2022 are eligible for a VAC refund.

More information about refunds can be found online.

equality in community sport.

Birchip Neighbourhood House, a previous grant recipient, used the funds to build a leadership programme, a series of inclusive sporting activities, and 'Birchip Safe and Well,' a community programme that hosts sporting events in a safe and courteous atmosphere.

The Royal Park Tennis Club in Parkville used their money to launch a low-cost women's starting teaching and social play programme, which brought in 64 new members in 2021.

In May 2021, the Kangaroo Flat Football Netball Club in Bendigo used their grant to host a 'Change Our Game Women's Round,' showcasing the junior and senior women's teams and featuring a

special appearance by AFLW North Melbourne player Grace Campbell.

The Labor Government's continuous commitment to gender equality across all levels of the Victorian sport and active recreation industry is exemplified by the Change Our Game Community Activation Grants Program.

Since its inception in 2018, the programme has awarded 242 funds to community sport and leisure organisations to help them stage events ranging from try-it-out days to community forums and instructional sessions.

The funds are part of a $18.8 million investment by the government in the Office for Women in Sport and Recreation and the Change Our Game project.

Govt. approves grants for community sports clubs fostering women’s equality

Australian borders to open T for tourists after 2 years

In the wake of the lockdown imposed across Australia to curb the onslaught of the Covid-19 pandemic, the national frontiers had been closed to all outsiders. However, the borders will reopen on February 21st, the declaration having been made by PM Morrison on February 7.

welcomed nearly 7,000 international students.

From the 24th to the 30th of January, there was a robust return of international students to our shores, with about 7,000 international students arriving in Australia ahead of course starting dates at Australian campuses all throughout the country.

A total of 56,000 international students have arrived in Australia since late November 2020.

In recent months, demand for Australian study visas has been exceptionally high, with more than 50,000 overseas student visa applications filed since late 2021.

The Minister directed the Department to commit greater resources to processing the visas of International Students, which has resulted in a flood of visa grants for international students.

Recently, there was a 17% increase in the number of Working Holiday Makers arriving.

From the 24th to the 30th of January, the number of Working Holiday Maker visa (subclass 417 and 462) applications skyrocketed, with 2,600 visa applications filed by international backpackers.

In the months since the reopening of international borders to

he Andrews Labor Government will once again fund community sport and active leisure clubs that nurture and promote opportunities for women and girls on and off the field.

Ros Spence, the Minister for Community Sport, recently announced the opening of applications for the 2021-22 Change Our Game Community Activation Grants Program, as part of the Labor Government's efforts to increase female involvement in sporting clubs.

According to an official press release, the initiative provides funds of up to $10,000 to qualified organisations that provide additional chances for women and girls at the grassroots level to improve gender

Shepparton-based processing company popularizes unhomogenised milk among Indian community

Continued from page 1

So he and his partner reckoned that they could start making new products without compromising with authenticity of taste.

Vouched by Jaspreet and Surinder as having a taste alike to the milk they had growing up, Kisaan’s most demanded product is pasteurised unhomogenised milk with the cream still on the top.

“Dairy is a very important part of an Indian diet culturally, and the authentic taste is missing here in cheese and yoghurt," Surinder explained.

Elderly people are inclined towards

/IndianAbroadNews

these products as about ten years back unhomogenised milk was available in Australia to which they had become readily accustomed.

Kisaan initially filled commercial orders for Indian sweet producers, but when Melbourne went into lockdown in 2020, they discovered a new market. Even as the lockdown brought life to a standstill and potential customers were confined indoors, Jaspreet and Surinder formed networks and began to make doorstep delivery of milk for private consumers. Currently, the company’s figures for orders stand at about 300 days per day to both private and

/indianabroadnews

commercial consumers.

Despite the eventual success of the venture, it had a slow start, being a new processing company in an area renowned for top-notch dairy production companies. The issue was mainly that the farmers were not quite willing to supply milk.

Eventually, the company purchased its milk from three ideal farmers.

Unlike major processors which pay fat-protein per kilo, Kisaan pays by the litre.

The next product which the company is planning to launch in the market is buffalo milk.

6

FOOD & CUISINE

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

Indian Cooking with Lata Modi HOME MADE PANEER & CAPSICUM CURRY WITH BESAN AND PEANUTS Side Chef

HOME MADE PANEER

MRS. LATA MODI

N

amaste everyone. I feel like sharing some very beautiful memories with you all today. This has been one of my most proud moment as an Indian living in Australia, especially in Gold Coast.

On 26th of January we all celebrate our Indian Republic Day, no matter where we live. In Australia, it happens to be Australia Day as well on the same day. So living in Australia we very proudly celebrate both with great pride. My kids had learnt our Indian National Anthem when they were little. And Australian National Anthem was taught in schools here. But when we came to Gold Coast, Queensland in 1995, as I had mentioned before that the Indian Community was very very small. I wanted to celebrate Indian Independence Day with my community. So I wanted some children to sing our national anthem to represent India in the big Australia Day celebration. I spoke with some families and we had about 10 young children. To my surprise lots of these kids had never heard of our national anthem. So we practised and they represented India for the first time ever, on the biggest stage here where Australia Day was being celebrated. I was feeling very emotional to see our Indian flag being held by our little children and the echo of our national anthem was in the air. It was such a magical moment.

Lots of parents and grand parents were there and they were so happy that their children were part of this celebration.

Since then we have been holding our flag up high each year with our participation in Australia Day. Now the Indian community is huge and the celebrations are even bigger. And now my grand children are singing the Indian national anthem and making me extremely proud.

JAI HIND

HOME MADE PANEER INGREDIENTS (for up to half kilo) • Two litres full cream milk • Two lemons juice METHOD • In a heavy based sauce pan put milk. Keep the heat medium.

• Bring milk to boil, keep stirring the milk, so it will not get burnt or get stuck to the bottom of the pan.

• Once it starts to boil, put the lemon juice and stir for a minute then turn off heat.

• Now take a muslin cloth, keep it over a mixing bowl, so the water can be saved in the bowl and the paneer will stay in the cloth .

• This water is very nutritious and can be used in curry or to make dough.

• Now squeeze the muslin cloth with very softly with your hands.

• And find something heavy, like a marble cheese board or chakla and put it on top of the muslin cloth. Put

it in the fridge for couple of hours and your paneer will be ready to use.

• Enjoy.

CAPSICUM CURRY WITH BESAN AND PEANUTS INGREDIENTS (for up to 4 people) • Four red or green capsicums washed and cut in bite size pieces • Half cup besan (gram flour) • Half cup peanuts (roasted and roughly crushed peanuts) • Two tea spoon fennel seeds • One tea spoon mustard seeds • One tea spoon turmeric powder • Two tea spoon coriander powder • Two or three dry red chillies • Three table spoon oil of your choice • Salt to taste • Fresh coriander leaves for garnishing METHOD • Heat one table spoon oil a big wok or frying pan.

• Fry besan on a medium heat until it turns a bit light brown.

• Take it out and keep it aside.

• In the same wok, heat two table spoon oil.

• Add mustard seeds.

• Let it crackle.

• Add fennel seeds and dry red chillies.

• Stir for a moment .

• Now add turmeric powder.

• Put your cut up capsicums.

• Add salt and coriander powder.

• Mix it well.

• Cover and cook for five minutes on medium heat.

• This should be crunchy.

• Take the lid off and add the fried besan.

• Mix it really well to coat the besan on every piece.

• Now add crushed peanuts and keep mixing.

• Garnish with chopped coriander leaves.

• Serve hot with chapatis.

Smitha Kalluraya

CAPSICUM CURRY WITH BESAN AND PEANUTS

Kitchen hacks: ways to use V-Day spiked hot chocolate a Zipper Bag T

he global pandemic has undoubtedly taught us the importance of time management and the use of multi-utility products to organise our lives. High quality zipper bags are a recent innovation for a hassle-free and organised experience. These bags have caused a significant revolution in kitchens and are also suitable for other items that need to be kept organised and in one location.

These zipper bags are a godsend for work-from-home couples and nuclear families in India who need to make their food preparations last longer and eat healthier, especially since they must balance meal prep with work or other household responsibilities. Asahi Kasei, Japan's No. 1 Premium Wrap and silicone-coated foil & sheet brand, has launched a unique seal-tight double line zipper bag that gives it a competitive advantage over other zipper bags on the market.

Store one week’s meal: Use an Asahi Kasei Zipper Bag to make one week’s worth of meal prep and organise it by labelling the bags with the designated day/type of meal stored in them. This can make your week’s meals less stressful and save you time on last-minute preparations. In fact, if any of your

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meals contain curry, the leak proof double seal technology prevents it from spilling. Furthermore, the label space makes it easy to organise.

Keep leafy vegetables fresh for longer time: Leafy vegetables, such as coriander leaves, mint leaves, methi leaves, spinach, or spring onions, generally spoil even when refrigerated. To keep them fresh for a longer period of time, first dry them out (if there is any water) by leaving them open in the room on a piece of paper. Once the water has dried up, place it in a Zipper Bag and place it in the refrigerator.

The innovative Zipper Bag traps moisture and thus keeps your leafy greens fresh and in good condition for a long time.

Smoothie Meal Prep: Healthconscious individuals who enjoy smoothies and include them in either of their meals on a daily basis can now relax about taking time away from their chores to prepare them. These zipper bags keep your chopped fruits fresh for an extended period of time. The fruit combinations, as well as the day and meal time, can be listed on the label, and you’re done. The recyclable Zipper Bag allows you to maintain a healthy lifestyle without having to chop fresh fruits every day.

A

Store Marinated Meat: Even when frozen, it is difficult for non-vegetarians to keep meat fresh for an extended period of time. But they no longer have to be concerned because, unlike a regular zipper bag, the Asahi Kasei Zipper Bag not only keeps your meat fresh but also keeps your kitchen smelling fresh by locking in the odour. So use these zipper bags for fresh, odor-free storage.

Streamline the freezer: You can save freezer space by freezing food flat in zipper bags for easy stacking instead of using a hard plastic container.

Because these double-line zipper bags are leak-proof, you can use them for soups as well; just don’t put anything heavy on top before it sets.

DIY pastry bag: When you’re ready to bake and realise you’re out of pastry bags, turn to the Zipper Bag for assistance. You only need a

ZipperBag and a pair of scissors, and you’ll be done in no time. To fill cupcake moulds, cut half the bag off, place the filling inside, roll it from above, cut a slightly thicker part off the corner, and easily fill the moulds. To pipe a long-winded birthday message, simply snip off the tip of the corner.

While the Zipper Bag appears to be a simple household item, it can be used for a variety of purposes.

Savouries, dry fruits, curries, purees, and even marinated meat can be stored and labelled, and it also makes snacking on the go easier and less clumsy. You can refrigerate leftover food in the bags, store dry spice powders, organise jewellery, carry travel essentials, and even organise medicines.

(Luve Oberoi, Senior Marketing Manager, Asahi Kasei)

/IndianAbroadNews

IANS

special recipe for your Valentine shared by Rohit Pandey, Executive Assistant Manager - Food & Beverage, The Leela Bhartiya City Bengaluru.

Ingredients: Callebaut chocolate (1tbsp) Cream (30ml) Milk (120ml) Baileys Irish cream (30ml) Kahlua (30ml) Triple sec (30ml) Cinnamon powder (a pinch) Whipped Cream (garnish) Method: Melt and mix cream, milk, chocolate & cinnamon powder Pour it into an Irish coffee mug Top with all the liqueurs and stir gently Finally top with whipped cream

ADVERTISE WITH US

0488-067-243

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7

COMMUNITY NEWS

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

BrisAsia Festival 2022 launched, artists showcase spectacular talents

T

he 2022 BrisAsia Festival, which celebrates Brisbane's burgeoning stature as a new world metropolis with a magnificent display by Brisbane's finest traditional and contemporary performing artists, was formally launched recently. The schedule of programmes and shows was also announced at the event.

Live music, digital art, dance, film, and fashion were all featured at this special free event staged at the renowned Fortitude Music Hall. Tenzin Choegyal, a renowned Tibetan musician, Sudha Manian, LALKA, KPOP, and many other artists performed.

Southside by Night, the first-ever dedicated tea festival The Laneway Tea Festival, digital storytelling initiative Mother's Table, a special Valentine's Day event called BrisAsia Love Songs, new music and healing initiative Satsang - Sacred Gathering, and BrisAsia Fashion

showcasing some of the best Asian designers are among the upcoming events for BrisAsia 2022.

BrisAsia Festival, now in its tenth year, brings together a programme that celebrates a dynamic combination of Asian art, culture, and cuisine throughout more than 50 events in February 2022. Live performances by internationally famous artists, outdoor events, and intimate cultural exchanges spanning traditional and modern art forms will all be part of the programme.

Connection through culture' is this year's theme, and it's a call to action to reach out to others, engage, and be a part of Brisbane's ongoing cultural narrative. From the 1st to the 20th of February, audiences may see the transforming power of live performance, learn and grow through immersive workshops, and travel the length and breadth of Asia through the festival's jam-packed programme.

Indian film bags honour at documentary film festival in Sydney Continued from page 1

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A Night of Knowing Nothing is a collection of letters written by a young film student to her partner.

As she discusses events and issues in her environment, dreams and memories, fantasies and anxieties, it becomes clear that they are a commentary on the state of contemporary India, particularly its youth.

The Indo-French co-production won the Oeil d'Or award for Best Documentary at the Cannes Film Festival 2021 last year, as well as the Amplify Voices Award at the Toronto International Film Festival.

Payal Kapadia, the film's director and screenwriter, has a Bachelor

of Economics from St Xavier's College in Mumbai and studied film direction at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune.

Her self-produced short film ‘The Last Mango before the Monsoon’ won the International Critics' Prize at both the Oberhausen Film Festival and the Mumbai International Film Festival in 2014.

In 2017, her short film ‘Afternoon Clouds’, about a woman and her Nepali housekeeper, was the only Indian entry in any category at the Cannes Film Festival.

/IndianAbroadNews

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8

COMMUNITY NEWS

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

Strengthening Australia’s ties with India

T

he Morrison Government is further strengthening Australia’s ties with India, one of Australia’s most important partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

A series of new initiatives to support the education, community, tourism and investment links will add to the growing bilateral relationship, which was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2020.

Following meetings between the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women, Senator Marise Payne, and India’s Minister of External Affairs Dr S. Jaishankar in Melbourne, the Government has launched three Maitri (friendship) initiatives, which will foster Australia-India cooperation, creativity, understanding and exchange.

The $11.2 million Maitri Scholarships Program will attract and support high achieving Indian students to study at Australian universities. It will showcase Australia’s globally renowned academic and research institutions, particularly in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and health.

The $3.5 million Maitri Grants and Fellowships Program will build links between the future leaders of both countries, supporting mid-career Australian and Indian professionals to collaborate on strategic research and shared priorities.

The $6.1 million Australia-India Maitri Cultural Partnership will boost the role of creative industries in our economic and people-to-people ties. This partnership will also promote artistic talent and cultural exchanges in the two countries’ world class visual and performing arts, literature, film, television and

music industries.

Following meetings between the Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, the Hon Dan Tehan MP, and India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal in New Delhi, the Government has also renewed the Australia-India Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tourism Cooperation and launched the Australia India Infrastructure Forum.

The renewed MoU positions tourism operators to take advantage of the international border re-opening to all fully-vaccinated eligible visa holders, including tourists and business travellers from 21 February.

Under the MoU, Australia and India will promote travel between the two markets and advance cooperation on tourism policy, data sharing, training and industry engagement.

Pre-pandemic, India was Australia’s fastest-growing source of international visitors. In 2019, almost 400,000 visitors from India visited Australia and spent a combined total of $1.8 billion.

The Australia India Infrastructure Forum will serve as a hub to promote two-way investment in infrastructure. As a side initiative of the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement, currently under negotiation with India, it will also support our broader trade and investment objectives. A new $5.8 million Bay of Bengal Connectivity Partnership will expand this work to other countries in the region.

These initiatives reflect our nations’ shared commitment to cooperation and exchange, as set out in the Australia-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, agreed in June 2020.

Tanveer Sangha urges Asian cricketers to try out for HomeWorld Thunder Nation Cup

T

anveer Sangha, Sydney Thunder’s very own genius spinner, has urged cricketers of Indian, Afghan, Bangladeshi, Nepalese, Pakistani, or Sri Lankan

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ancestry to try out for a spot in the ninth edition of the HomeWorld Thunder Nation Cup. Two years ago, the 20-year-old made history by becoming the first

HomeWorld Thunder Nation Cup player to represent Sydney Thunder in the KFC Big Bash League.

Sangha has clinched 37 wickets in 27 matches since playing his debut

match against the Melbourne Stars at Canberra's Manuka Oval in 2020.

He has also been a prominent part of Australia's T20I squad on tours to New Zealand, Bangladesh, and the West Indies.

Prior to the commencement of BBL|11, Sangha – the son of Indian immigrants who settled in Sydney's south-west – spoke about how special it was to be a member of the 2017/18 India Community team, which won the title at Sydney Showground Stadium.

After claiming 2 wickets while barely conceding 13 runs, and hitting a rapid 29 from 18 deliveries, the leg spin bowler was hailed as Player of the Final. Sangha commented that his best cricket memory was playing in the Thunder Nation Cup Final three or four years back. Having been pitted against Pakistan while playing for India, he was fuelled by the historical rivalry between the two countries. India went on to win the match by one run and it being his first time playing in a stadium, he has profound memories attached to it.

/IndianAbroadNews

/indianabroadnews

9

INDIA

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

Kashmir propaganda: SC lawyer seeks ban on Hyundai, KIA, KFC, Pizza Hut

New Delhi, Feb 8: A Delhi-based Supreme Court lawyer on Tuesday wrote to Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal seeking de-registration of Hyundai India, KIA India, KFC India and Pizza Hut India over their offensive statements on social media regarding the union territory Jammu and Kashmir.

"Recently, the said companies have posted on their social media accounts offensive statements and posts challenging the sovereignty of our country," Advocate Vineet Jindal wrote in his letter.

On February 5, Hyundai Pakistan called for the 'freedom of Kashmir from India' through its official Twitter channel in Pakistan. The day is observed by Pakistan as the 'Kashmir solidarity day'.

The Indian Twitter users, livid after this obnoxious propaganda by Pakistan, began criticising Hyundai on social media, forcing the parent company to issue a response.

"Hyundai Motor India has been committed to the Indian market for more than 25 years now and we stand firmly for our strong ethos

of respecting nationalism. The unsolicited social media post linking Hyundai Motor India is offending our unparalleled commitment and service to this great country. We have a zero-tolerance policy towards insensitive communication and we strongly condemn any such view," the statement from Hyundai read.

Not only Hyundai but its subsidiary Kia too had tweeted similar things.

Pizza hut Pakistan shared a post on its Instagram account that read, "This Kashmir solidarity day, let's join hands and stand united for the freedom of our Kashmiri brothers and sisters."

KFC PAK also made a similar Twitter missive.

Jindal told IANS that the statement made by Hyundai India is a mere condemnation of its own act and does not support the acceptance of the offence and the statement is not an apology for the grave offence made publically.

The Advocate also sought an immediate registration of an FIR under sections 121A, 153, 153a, 504, 505 of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act .

He has also forwarded his letter to Delhi Police commissioner Rakesh Asthana.

Jindal said that the controversial post targeting the sovereignty of India by these multinational companies to gain business profit in Pakistan is highly deplorable. "These MNC's have intentionally made

atrocious statements on public platforms accessed by millions of users to challenge the sovereignty and integrity of India and their act can cause national riots, communal disharmony and is an act of waging war against India," he said.

Earlier in the day, Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi took up the issue in Parliament and without naming any company said the content "they have posted on their platforms calls for freedom for Kashmir."

"These companies are doing business both in India and Pakistan, yet have posted content in solidarity with Pakistan over Kashmir. Such posts that are challenging the sovereignty of our country should not be acceptable. It has been surprising that it has been ignored till now.

And also keeping in mind that these companies have been flourishing in India for the past many years yet choosing to take stances that are contentious is unacceptable," the Parliamentarian said.

Chaturvedi demanded that the government should ensure that these companies apologise unequivocally for the seditious posts and "further ensure that companies operating in India do not challenge the sovereignty of the country."

Responding to Shiv Sena MP's demand, Union Minister Piyush Goyal said the government has asked the company to be more forceful in unequivocal apology.

'Steadfast on principles, fearless in decisions': CJI delineates qualities of a judge

New Delhi, Jan 4: Chief Justice of India N.V. Ramana on Tuesday said for a judge, one must be steadfast in holding on to their principles and fearless in their decisions and on bench, a judge cannot defend himself against even motivated attacks, but a retired judge is free to defend himself, when the need arises.

In his remarks at the virtual farewell organised for retiring colleague, Justice R. Subhash Reddy, by the Supreme Court Bar Association, he said: "There are many qualities that a person needs to have to lead a good life: humility, patience, kindness and a strong work ethic. Most importantly, particularly for a judge, one must be steadfast in holding on to their principles and fearless in their decisions."

"Our values are our greatest wealth, and we must never forget the same," he said.

"Justice Reddy's journey is a testament to his values. His life and journey will continue to inspire many young lawyers," he added.

Chief Justice Ramana said retirement is just like freedom regained, particularly for a judge. "He is free from all the restrictions that come with the office. He can express his views on all issues freely and frankly. When on the Bench, a judge cannot defend himself against even motivated attacks. A retired judge is free to defend himself, when the need arises."

He said Justice Reddy always upheld and protected the people's liberties through his judgements, and valued the fundamental rights of all citizens of this country. "He has taken up several death penalty cases, and he would spend an immense amount of time on them to ensure that the person gets a fair chance at justice even at the last stage," he added.

The CJI added that Justice Reddy is known for his compassion and consciousness about social realities.

"The paramount standards of his ethical conduct and beliefs are all reflected in his fine and well-crafted judgments. People with genuine causes would never go empty-handed from his court," he said.

Justice Reddy also showed a resolute and dedicated commitment on the administrative side of the Supreme Court while serving as a member of the Supreme Court Judges' Committee constituted for ensuring speedy disposal of rape cases across the country, he noted.

The Chief Justice said: "Justice Reddy has a deep interest in philosophy, culture, music and education.

He readily endeared himself to all his peers through his simplicity and sincerity."

Justice Reddy practiced for 22 years at tribunals, civil courts, the Andhra Pradesh High Court and also before the Supreme Court in civil, criminal, constitutional, revenue, taxation, labour, company and service matters in both original and appellate side.

He was appointed as an additional judge of the Andhra Pradesh High Court, his parent high court, on December 2, 2002, and sworn in as a permanent judge of the Andhra Pradesh High Court on June 24, 2004. Justice Reddy was elevated as Judge of the Supreme Court of India on November 2, 2018.

Jilted suitor who burnt woman lecturer found guilty by Maha Court

QUICK BITES Spectator gored to death by bull at Jallikattu event in TN

The News Minute

IANS

Nagpur (Maharashtra), Feb 9: A court in Wardha district pronounced the 'guilty' verdict on the prime accused in the sensational incident in which a young woman lecturer was doused with petrol and burnt by her spurned suitor on a road outside her college in Hinganghat town two years ago, a top law officer said here on Wednesday.

"The Court has found the prime accused Vikesh Nagrale guilty of the offences committed two years ago.

As per the Supreme Court orders, the quantum of punishment will be argued tomorrow after which the court will deliver its final verdict," Special Public Prosecutor (SSP) Ujjwal Nikam told mediapersons.

On February 3, 2020, the victim Ankita Pissude, 24, who was stalked

by Nagrale, 27, from her home to workplace, the MAK Mahila College, Hinganghat, where he committed the heinous crime in full public view, shaking the conscience of the people of Maharashtra.

Sustaining severe burns, the victim was rushed to a Nagpur hospital where she succumbed on February 10, sparking outrage all over the state, a month before the Coronavirus pandemic lockdown was clamped in the country.

The attacker was arrested hours later and subsequently charged with murder and the case was assigned to a Fast Track Court in Hinganghat with the prosecution demanding the death penalty for Nagrale.

After the investigations, the Wardha Police had filed a 426-page charge sheet, 29 witnesses were examined during 64 hearings held in the past two years of the pandemic lockdown.

Interestingly, not a single witness turned hostile during the trial and the verdict will come exactly two years after Ankita Pissude's demise (February 10, 2020), in the prosecution charge directed by SPP Nikam.

However, the accused Nagrale denied all the allegations, including that he had attacked or set afire the victim.

The ghastly incident echoed twice in Parliament and was strongly condemned by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, Maha Vikas Aghadi partners, women, youth and social groups.

Chennai, Feb 11: In a gruesome incident, a 20-year-old youth was gored to death by a bull at a Jallikattu event in Tamil Nadu's Pudukottai district on Friday.

The event, which was organised as part of the annual festival of the Muthumariamman temple, had 718 bulls and 300 bull tamers from different districts as participants.

The deceased has been identified as V. Pandimurugan from Keezhapatti in Tiruchi district.

Officials of Illupur police station, under whose jurisdiction the Jallikattu event was held, said that

Pandimurgan was watching the event from outside the arena when a bull ran away from the entry point of the arena and hit him on his chest.

A medical team, that was pressed into service immediately, took him to the outpatient facility set up at the venue, where he was declared brought dead.

Police said that 50 people were injured in the bull-taming event and many of them were treated at the Outpatient facility outside the arena while some were treated at the hospital.

KFC, Hyundai face backlash on social media: Report New Delhi, Feb 8: Indian users are fuming on social media over some controversial posts targeting Kashmir by reputed multinationals.

Hyundai's Pakistan dealership came under heavy fire for sharing a post on its official social media handles, extending support to "Kashmir Solidarity Day". Soon after, #BoycottHyundai started trending on Twitter, with Indians condemning the car giant's controversial stand. Now, KFC has come under scrutiny over the same reasons, IB Times reported.

Indians are calling for a boycott of KFC, the popular fast-food chain with branches across the globe. The reason for the social media boycott, which is trending in India under the hashtag #BoycottKFC, is a post shared by the eatery's Pakistan handle last year.

"We stand together this Kashmir Solidarity Day, to realise their right to freedom," KFC PAK wrote.

Making things worse, a picture of snowy mountains with overlaying text: Their cravings for freedom are heartfelt, was shared. The word Kashmir is marked with a barbed wire, signifying Kashmir is not free, the report said.

As the screenshot of last year's tweet by KFC Pakistan on Kashmir went viral, many Indians took to

Twitter to express their dismay.

Hundreds and thousands of users have called out the propaganda against India on the sensitive issue of Kashmir. Netizens are already pledging never to eat again at a KFC joint, IB Times reported.

The social media post, which triggered this controversy, remains active on all of KFC Pakistan's social media channels. KFC India, however, has issued an apology for the controversial post from its Pak handles, the report said.

Korean car maker Hyundai Motor India found itself on a sticky road with its statement that many Indians consider as insufficient and skirting over the issue of whether Kashmir is an integral part of India. On Twitter the handles Boycott Hyundai'' and 'Boycott Kia' started trending.

Pakistan declared a holiday on February 5 to express solidarity with terrorists and Kashmiri separatists operating from Indian soil. On February 5, Hyundai Pakistan as well as a dealer of Kia Motors in Pakistan shared posts on social media extending support to the Pakistansponsored violence in Kashmir under the garb of 'solidarity' which is being celebrated as 'Kashmir Solidarity Day' every year on 5th February every year, the report said.

Father-in-law saves life of ailing daughter-in-law by donating kidney

IANS

K'taka BJP MLA says he gets threatening calls, PUCs shut till Feb 15

Bengaluru, Feb 12: Amid the hijab row in Karnataka, Udupi BJP MLA Raghupathi Bhat has said that he has got threatening calls.

"The call has been made from the internet in Hyderabad. The Superintendent of Police has

www.indianabroad.news

suggested security. I am safe among my people. This is enough and I don't want a gunman," Raghupathi Bhat has said. "I am not a man to be bogged down by these threats," he added.

"Pakistan TV and Al-Jazeera TV are portraying that hijab is banned in Udupi district. After seeing that many are making threatening calls. I have not spoken against any religion during the hijab row. I have spoken for discipline in colleges. All Muslim local leaders have said my stand is correct on the issue."

MLA Raghupathi Bhat is the President of School Development and Management Committee (SDMC) of Udupi Girl's PreUniversity College from where hijab row started. He has been vehemently opposing the wearing of hijab in the classes and has been maintaining that there is an international conspiracy behind the hijab crisis.

Bhat had also earlier asked Muslim students not to come to campus if they are wearing hijab and it would spoil academic activity of 1,000

plus students in the college. He has maintained that he is continuously getting threatening calls.

Amid an uneasy calm prevailing in Karnataka in the backdrop of the hijab row, the government has announced holidays for Pre-University College students till February 15.

Taking no chances with the volatile situation due to the hijab crisis, the Karnataka government on Saturday declared holidays for the Pre-University Colleges (11 and 12 class). The Department of Primary and Secondary Education has issued a circular saying that the decision has been made to maintain law and order in the state. The order states that it applies to all government, aided, unaided Pre-University Colleges in the state.

Meanwhile, Mysuru Police Commissioner Chandra Gupta has continued prohibitory orders in the city banning protests, rallies in the backdrop of reopening of 9 and 10th classes from Monday onwards.

Mandya and Tumakuru police have warned that the police would keep a hawk eye on the posts on Twitter,

Facebook, Instagram and other social media platforms. The police have warned that miscreants who give provocative statements, call for protests, will be booked under Goonda Act. Meanwhile, tension prevailed in the Ankatadka School premises located in Kadaba taluk of Dakshina Kannada district as a video of students performing namaz in classroom went viral on social media.

Block Education Officer (BEO) has conveyed the School Development and Management Committee (SDMC), parents and students meeting on Saturday. However, parents and students have agreed to not perform namaz in classrooms in the meeting henceforth.

BJP State President Nalin Kumar stated on Saturday that tacit understanding of Congress and Social Democratic Party (SDPI) has resulted in the hijab crisis in the state. There is international conspiracy behind all this and the Congress party has approached the court.

Hijab row is the hidden agenda of the Congress, he added.

/IndianAbroadNews

Aurangabad, Feb 12: A 25-year-old woman, diagnosed with kidney ailment, from Jalna district in Maharashtra's Aurangabad has received a new lease of life after her father-in-law donated one of his kidneys with the help of doctors at Medicover Hospitals.

The woman was diagnosed with kidney failure 6 months back. Her urine output had stopped leading to swelling all over the body and repeated episodes of hemoptysis (blood in sputum).

"On many counts, kidney transplantation in this patient was indeed challenging," Neha Jain, Center Head, said in a statement.

She required dialysis treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU). For her condition, Sachin Soni, a Kidney specialist had advised a kidney

/indianabroadnews

transplantation surgery which was getting postponed due to the unavailability of a donor.

In this situation, the father-in-law of the lady decided to become a kidney donor for his daughter-in-law. The challenges were not less as his blood group (B+) was not compatible with that of the patient (O+).

In absence of any other donor, the kidney transplant team at the Hospital took up the challenge of performing ABO incompatible kidney transplant in December 2021.

Another hurdle came in the form of Covid-19 infection of the patient and the surgery was finally performed on February 2, 2022.

However, the doctors said that now the donor and the recipient are in healthy condition with normal kidney functions.

10

INDIA

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

Hijab crisis: No ban on mobiles at educational institutions, says K'taka Min

The Economics Times

Panaji, Feb 11: India's top 100 billionaires have as much wealth as 40 per cent of the country's population, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said on Friday.

Speaking at an election rally at the Curchorem assembly constituency in South Goa, Gandhi once again spelled out his theory of two India, which he had first advocated in Parliament earlier this month.

"In India, on the one hand, there are billionaires and on the other hand there are unemployed.

"Today, India's richest 100 persons have as much money as 40 per cent of the Indian population. On the one hand, there is 40 per cent of India's population and on the other hand, 100 billionaires.

"Today, 90 percent profit goes to 20 businesses," Gandhi said.

"The country is being further

divided. On the one hand, there are a select few rich and lakhs, crores of poor on the other. We do not want such a Goa and India. If India is a country, everyone should get the opportunity, there should be justice.

We want such a Goa, such an India," he added.

Gandhi also faulted the Central government for growing unemployment in the country.

"Why did employment opportunities disappear? Who creates employment? Employment is created by people who run small and medium businesses. Employment is created by small businessmen, small shop owners. Over the last eight years, the government in Delhi has attacked them," Gandhi said, blaming demonetisation and a flawed Goods and Services Tax for the phasing out of small businesses and industries.

"GST was (also) not implemented

in the correct manner. Small and medium businessmen were affected.

As a result, those small and medium business owners who were providing employment, their businesses shut down. They cannot provide employment anymore," he said.

Gandhi said that the electoral contest in Goa was between the BJP and the Congress, urging voters not to cast ballots in favour of smaller parties in the fray.

"The fight is between the BJP and the Congress. The rest of the parties cannot form a government. The government will be formed by the Congress and not the rest of the parties. So do not waste your vote.

Congress should win with a full majority in Goa," he said.

Polling to the 40-member Goa Assembly will be held on February 14.

Aggressive masculinity dominates Tesla manufacturing in China & selling in India not digestible: Gadkari Indian journalistic performance: Study Siasat.com

New Delhi, Feb 12: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has said that manufacturing Tesla in China and selling in India is not a digestible concept to all of us, as Elon Musk continues to seek tax rebates to sell his electric car in the country.

In a media interview, Gadkari said he met the head of the Indian arm of Tesla "three-four days back".

"I have tried to convince him.

Ultimately it is dependent on him to take the decision (to manufacture in the country)," Gadkari told News 18.

Stressing that Musk has to manufacture here first in order to roll out Tesla cars on the roads, the Minister said: "Now his (Musk's) interest is to manufacture the Tesla car in China and make it sell in India.

"So, if you start here, you are welcome, no problem. But

manufacturing in China and selling in India is not a digestible concept to all of us".

When asked about Tesla's demand to cut customs duties on electric cars, Gadkari said that the country cannot appease one automobile company.

"India is a huge market. We have all the world's automobile giants -BMW, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, Tototo, Honda, Hyundai -- present here. If we give one benefit to one company, we have to give that benefit to other companies also. That is the practical problem," he elaborated.

Musk recently tweeted that he faced challenges from the government for releasing its products in India.

"Tesla isn't in India yet due to "Challenges with the government", he posted.

Tesla has registered its office in Bengaluru as Tesla India Motors

and Energy Private Limited and named three directors. The firm is registered with an authorised capital of Rs 15 lakh and paid-up capital of Rs 1 lakh.

Earlier this week, the government questioned Tesla's business practices of seeking tax breaks to use the Indian market to sell its products, but not wanting to set up manufacturing facilities in the country which can generate thousands of jobs.

"We can't grant subsidies or relaxation in taxes to the said company as they don't want to set-up their manufacturing and other operation bases here. Why should we favour a company which creates jobs in China and mints profit from our markets?" Minister ofte for Heavy Industries, Krishna Pal Gujjar, told the Lok Sabha in response to a question.

"Our Prime Minister has a vision for all such foreign companies, if you want to sell your product in our country, then manufacture them here only," Gujjar added.

The minister informed the house that Tesla hasn't shown any interest in any of the government's schemes for electric vehicles.

As per the Ministry of Heavy Industries, the government has formulated a scheme, Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) Scheme in 2015 to promote the adoption of electric/ hybrid vehicles (EVs) in the country with an aim to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.

SC directs IIT Madras to treat OCI student as Indian student for fee IANS

New Delhi, Feb 8 (IANS): The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed the IIT Madras to treat a student belonging to Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) category at par with Indian students in connection with the fee, for the current academic year.

A bench of Justices Abdul Nazeer and Krishna Murari said: "Respondent IIT Madras to treat the petitioner at par with the Indian citizens with regard to the fees charged in terms of our order dated October 27, 2021.. ordered accordingly, subject to the outcome of the SLP." The top court order came on a plea www.indianabroad.news

by Nidhay Eedala Reddy.

Senior advocate Anitha Shenoy, representing the petitioner, contended before the bench that her client was admitted under the open category, and the institute asked him to pay fees meant for foreign nationals.

She added that OCIs, for the past 12 years, have been paying the same fee as Indian students but last year, it was reversed.

Additional Solicitor General Aishwarya Bhati, representing the Centre, submitted that the fee for non-Indian candidates is Rs 3,18,000 per semester and for the Indian student it is Rs 1,04,000.

In October last year, the top court permitted the petitioner to appear in counselling in the general category to pursue respective courses for the academic year 2021-2022. Citing this order, the top court said with respect to fee charged by the institute, the OCI candidate should be granted parity with the Indian counterparts, at least for this academic year.

Bhati argued that fee is determined by the candidate's birth category and not their seat category and added that a Scheduled Caste candidate would get the benefit of subsidised fee even if he or she is allotted/they choose open category seats. She further submitted that fee difference is not so much that the court has to pass an interim order and added OCI candidates are ultimately taking the fee subsidised for the purpose of Indian students.

The Indian students will serve the nation after acquiring these degrees, she added.

As counsel appearing for the IIT submitted that out of 81 students, in the current year, who are foreign nationals, only the petitioner is seeking parity in connection with fee, the top court clarified that the order is being passed only with respect to the petitioner.

Hyderabad, Feb 11 (IANS): Aggressive masculinity dominates the Indian news shows and talk shows, according to researchers at the Hyderabad University. The study monitored prime time news and talk shows across 31 television channels in 12 Indian languages including English.

A team from the university's Department of Communication, comprising Prof. Usha Raman and two of her research scholars, Amritha Mohan and Anuja Premika, collaborated with the Network of Women in Media, India (NWMI) to conduct a study exploring the presence of aggressive masculinity in journalistic performance and social media discourse.

According to the study, aggression was observed in more than 50 per cent of all news shows sampled, with the percentage rising to 85 per cent for talk shows.

At 76.8 per cent, tone of voice was the most common expression of aggression observed in the study.

Elements that increased stridency such as sound and visual effects occurred as frequently as 60 per cent.

Panels moderated by male anchors revealed relatively more aggressive masculinist behavior (54.55 per cent) on several metrics than those moderated by female anchors (12.07

per cent).

Using a scale developed by the Hyderabad University team to identify and catalogue aggressive, dominant and sexist verbal and non-verbal behaviours associated with hegemonic masculinities, a team of coders from the NWMI membership analysed the television content.

The study also conducted a limited analysis of trending social media posts, as were a set of case studies of

specific news stories and channels.

It was prompted by the increasing polarisation in news performance, characterised by high-decibel confrontational behavior on many shows, which often carries over into social media as well.

The researchers also looked for instances of gender positive behaviours and offered guidelines on how channels can move towards a more dialoguic, civil mode of television news presentation.

Humara Bajaj, the original Make in India champion, passes away Continued from page 1

"I am deeply shocked to learn about the sad demise of Padma Bhushan Shri Rahul Bajaj, my very close friend. The grandson of eminent freedom fighter Jamnalal Bajaj brought transformation in society, especially in poor and middle-class people with his two-wheel technology - a Bajaj bike," said Pawar.

Saying India has lost an industrialist, a philanthropist and a lighthouse for young entrepreneurs, Pawar said the affordable vehicle - 'Hamara Bajaj' - increased mobility, eased struggle for getting means of livelihood and became the tool of socio-economic change, for which "we Indians are deeply indebted".

/IndianAbroadNews

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11

AUSTRALIA

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

Australia's largest bank joins Net-Zero Banking Alliance to cut emissions by 2050 IANS

Sydney, Feb 9 (IANS): Australia's largest retail bank, the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), announced on Wednesday that it would be signing onto the global Net-Zero Banking Alliance, which pledges a commitment to aiding the transition to zero emissions.

The commitment means the bank would publish interim targets for power generation, thermal coal and upstream oil and upstream gas, and provide transparency on their transition to net-zero emissions by 2050, Xinhua news agency reported.

"Successfully transitioning to net-zero emissions will require a transformation of the global

economy. It requires coordinated effort across sectors; and is contingent on policy, regulation, and technological developments," said CBA Chief Executive Officer Matt Comyn.

It would also entail a realignment of the banks' balance sheets as they move away from lending to fossil fuel enterprises and towards green energy solutions.

Dr. John-Paul Monck, CEO of SME Bank and adjunct professor at the University of New South Wales Business school, told Xinhua this move by CBA, which makes up such a large part of Australia's banking industry, would in and of itself begin to reshape the entire sector.

"There are certain pockets of industries that banks just won't touch now, because they don't want to be associated with that."

He said that for larger banks with trillions of dollars on their balance sheets, this would likely be a gradual process of decoupling.

"If the banking sector completely walked away from say, coal or whatever industry ... their rates (from non-bank lenders) they would pay could be double, triple," he said, indicating that banks will play a significant role in disincentivising high-emission industries.

However, climate change solutions rooted in technological development and growth have drawn widespread criticism in the climate change advocacy world.

Monck said while the transition to sustainable industries could constrain business, ultimately longterm growth will be made possible through sustainable businesses.

"There's always this tug of war between safety and profitability and therefore growth."

"And if we're talking about 2050, we've got less than 28 years to run.

What are we doing right now, the most effective time to start is today, because of the compounding effect of what you do."

Australia's Covid cases continue to rise amid call for vaccine rule unity BOL News

Canberra, Feb 9: Australia on Wednesday reported more than 30,000 new coronavirus cases before international borders set to reopen to fully vaccinated tourists within weeks after almost two years.

Nationally, there were 70 deaths reported on Wednesday, including 24 in Queensland, 21 in Victoria, 20

in New South Wales, two in both Tasmania and South Australia, and one in the Australian Capital Territory, according to figures from states and territories.

There were 3,800 cases being treated in Australian hospitals on Tuesday, including 271 in intensive care units, Xinhua news

agency reported citing Australia's Department of Health.

The federal government on Monday announced that from February 21 international tourists with a valid visa who have received two Covid vaccine doses will be allowed to enter Australia for the first time in nearly two years.

Some state has flagged that a booster shot could be required for tourists to enter hospitality venues in the state.

Dan Tehan, the minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, said it was critical that states and territories have uniform rules for international travellers.

"It will cause problems because there will be a different message," he told Nine Network radio on Wednesday.

"At the moment it's two doses.

It's working very well in terms of getting international students back."

Experts call for lowering voting age in Aus capital Canberra, Feb 7: A group of experts have called for the voting age in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) to be lowered to 16.

In a submission to a parliamentary committee examining legislation that would change the voting age in the ACT, 30 academics and advocates said the move would be "very positive for our democracy", Xinhua news agency reported.

Faith Gordon, an associate professor at the Australian National University (ANU) College of Law and a lead author of the submission, said lowering the age would increase voting rates in the ACT. "There's a lot of international

evidence to show that lowering the voting age and expanding suffrage to young people can be a really positive thing for democracies," she told local media on Monday.

The current voting age in all eight Australian states and territories is 18.

The Electoral Amendment Bill 2021 would lower it to 16 in the ACT, with those who fail to vote to face a A$40 ($28) fine.

Gordon said changing the age in the ACT could lead to other jurisdictions following suit.

"Lowering the voting age to 16 years extends basic citizenship,

democratic and human rights to more young people," she said.

"Reducing the voting age will also better align with the values of fostering an inclusive society by promoting youth participation and acknowledging the right to be heard in all matters affecting their lives."

Think tank the Australia Institute made a submission proposing that voting be made voluntary rather than mandatory for the younger age group.

The committee is expected to hand down its report on the bill by March 3 before the bill goes to the ACT's Parliament.

Researchers on board for report on high-speed rail in Australia IANS

Sydney, Feb 9: A team of researchers from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) have come up with a new approach to making high-speed rail (HSR) cost-effective in Australia that involves factoring in the rise in land value among other "value uplifts".

The report released by UNSW's City Futures Research Centre on Wednesday showed that HSR stations along Australia's east coast, connecting the nation's three most populous cities Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, would generate a potential 140 billion Australian dollars (about US$100 billion) in land value, Xinhua news agency reported.

"There are a lot of opportunities around the HSR for Australia to build stronger connectivity between cities and inject significant wealth and job opportunities into the regions," said Director of UNSW City Futures Research Centre and lead author on the report Christopher Pettit.

In the past, proposed HSR projects have been ruled out given Australia's relatively small population -compared to countries like Japan, China and Germany, which have established HSR networks.

A report delivered to the Australian government in 2013 proposed HSR development on the east coast would cost 130 billion Australian dollars (about $93 billion).

Pettit said their proposal shows that this cost could be almost entirely offset by value added in areas such as dwelling value, population growth, creating jobs in regional areas of Australia and providing greater access to cities.

"If you were to capture a substantial proportion of this value uplift, it could pay for a huge amount of the HSR," he said.

Past proposals have attracted no shortage of criticism. Experts have rebuked the idea as having a benefit-cost ratio that would barely break

even, and huge emissions costs from the construction of thousands of kilometers of rail lines.

James Abbott, managing director at Abbott Advisory and reviewer of the UNSW report, told Xinhua: "I think that you need to consider the population we will have in 30 years versus the population we have today.

"Melbourne and Sydney, if you can imagine those two key markets within Australia becoming basically one hub, which an HSR could deliver, (would) fundamentally change the Australian economy," he said.

Abbott said with the benefits far outweighing the costs, the only thing left was strong political leadership that looked beyond the short term.

"Arguments for HSR are not just environmental. They're also social and economic. There's a variety of different reasons why this infrastructure makes sense for Australia."

Aussie police seize 220kg drug in Sydney Sydney, Feb 9: Police in the Australian state of New South Wales (NSW) seized 220 kgs of drug and cash worth 1.15 million Australian dollars (about $0.8 million) during a drug investigation on Wednesday.

Officers were called to a property in Canterbury in southwest Sydney on July 9 last year after a plumber who was fixing a leaking toilet pipe found bags of cash and crystal substance in an open cupboard, Xinhua news

agency reported.

The unit was then declared a crime scene and a locked garage under the complex was searched.

It uncovered 15 cardboard boxes containing almost 220 kgs of crystal methamphetamine with an estimated potential street value of 44 million Australian dollars (about $31.5 million).

Officers also seized 95g of MDMA,

35g of cocaine, and "chemicals consistent with the manufacture of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GBH), gamma-butyrolactone (GBL) and ice".

Some of the cash money seized were found in a grocery bag, stored in the garage.

Police have also released CCTV footage of a man they believe can assist with their investigations.

booster vaccinations in aged care facilities.

On Friday morning, Australia reported more than 20,000 new coronavirus cases and 46 deaths including 19 in New South Wales, 13

in Victoria and 14 in Queensland.

As of Thursday, there were 3,414 cases being treated in Australian hospitals including 267 in intensive care units, according to the Department of Health.

Australian men twice as likely to be highly paid than women: Report Australia to change Covid vax terms Tumbler

Canberra, Feb 11: Australian men are twice as likely to be highly paid than women, a government report revealed on Friday.

The Workplace Gender Equality Agency (WGEA) published its latest data on the gender pay gap, reports Xinhua news agency.

Based on the earnings of more than 4 million employees between April 2020 and March 2021, it revealed that men, on average, earn A$25,792 ($18,371) more per year than women.

It equates to a gender pay gap of 22.8 per cent, a slight fall from 23.3 per cent the previous year, meaning that for every A$10 a man earned, a woman made A$7.72.

One third of male employees make more than A$120,000 per year, as likely as females, while women are 50 per cent more likely to earn less than A$60,000.

Seventy-three per cent of Australian employers have pay gaps in favour of men while 7 per cent favour

women and 20 per cent have achieved parity.

"From the very top-down, women are undervalued in Australian businesses and underrepresented where decisions are made," Mary Wooldridge, director of the WGEA, said in a media release.

"Our latest insights show this pattern clearly: 22 per cent of all boards still don't have a single woman in the room; and about three quarters of all boards have a vast majority (over 60 per cent) of men.

"Of those heavily male-dominated boards, only 12 percent have set a target to increase the representation of women, and on average that target is only 35 percent -- not even what is generally considered a balanced board," she added.

The construction industry had the biggest gender pay gap, with men earning 30 per cent more on average than women followed by financial and insurance services (29.5 per cent) and professional, scientific and technical services industries (24.7 per cent).

Canberra, Feb 11: Australia's Covid-19 vaccine advisory body has recommended to change the term of "fully vaccinated" to "up to date" or "overdue".

The government recently received advice from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (ATAGI) about the vaccination status, with people aged 16 and over having had a booster shot now considered "up to date" with immunizations, reports Xinhua news agency.

Under the new rules, an eligible person who has not had a booster Covid-19 vaccine within six months of their second dose will be considered "overdue".

Australians aged 16 years and older are currently eligible for a booster shot three months after their second dose.

The cabinet on Thursday night also endorsed an Australian Health Protection Principal Committee (AHPPC) statement on mandatory

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Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

Indian leaders must stop marginalisation of Muslim women: Malala Yousafzai

New Delhi, Feb 9: Speaking about the ongoing hijab row in India, Nobel laureate and education rights

activist Malala Yousafzai has said that the "objectification of women -for wearing less or more -- persists",

Geo News reported.

Taking to Twitter, Malala talked about the hijab controversy raging in India's state Karnataka where Muslim students wearing the hijab are being barred from entering college premises.

Malala said: "Refusing to let girls go to school in their hijabs is horrifying."

The activist spoke against the decision and urged the Indian leaders to stop the "marginalisation of Muslim women".

"College is forcing us to choose between studies and the hijab.

Refusing to let girls go to school in their hijabs is horrifying.

Objectification of women persists - for wearing less or more. Indian leaders must stop the marginalisation of Muslim women," Malala said in a tweet.

Television Network that was filmed during his recent trip to Beijing to attend the opening ceremony of the 2022 Winter Olympics. The interview was aired with Urdu subtitles on Tuesday.

During the interview, the Premier was questioned about Pakistan's

relations with China and the US to which he replied that the world did not need "another Cold War".

"The world should not go through a situation where it is divided into two camps, it does not benefit anyone. In fact, everyone suffers," he said, adding that people benefit when there is cooperation between countries.

He went on to say that Pakistan wanted to play the role that it had played in the 1970s, when it was "instrumental" in bringing the two countries together, the report said.

"The famous visit of Dr Henry Kissinger was organised by Pakistan," he said, referring to the then US Secretary of State's visit from Islamabad to Beijing in 1971.

"So we hope to play that role," the Premier said, noting that Pakistan had "good relations with the US and an iron-brother relationship with China".

Imran Khan expressed the hope that the world would not see another Cold War-like situation where Pakistan would have to choose sides.

Pakistan wants to bring together US and China to prevent another Cold War

New Delhi, Feb 8: Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that Pakistan wanted to play the role of bringing together the US and China because "another Cold War" would not benefit anyone, Dawn reported.

He expressed these views during an interview with China Global

Over 2,000 rapes reported in Pak's Punjab province in 6 months New Delhi, Feb 8: In the last six months, 2,439 women were raped, 9,529 kidnapped, and 90 others were killed on the name of "honour" in Pakistan's Punjab province, according to official data.

The data, which was released by the Punjab Information Commission on behalf of the provincial police, paints a bleak picture of violence against women and children in the province, the Friday Times reported.

From July to December 2021, nearly 900 children were sexually abused, while 204 cases of child labour were reported and 12 instances of under-aged marriage were registered.

In the provincial capital of Lahore, 2,330 women were kidnapped

during the six-month time frame and nearly 400 rape cases were registered.

In Sheikhupura, there were 78 rape cases and 990 reports of torture, while 423 women were registered as kidnapped. In Nankana Sahib, almost 400 women were tortured, 423 were kidnapped and at least 32 reported rape, the report said.

In Kasur, an astounding 1,239 women registered instances of torture during the past six months, while another 371 reported kidnappings and 101 reported rape.

Gujranwala reported 777 cases of women being tortured, 309 kidnapping cases and 78 rape cases.

Finally, in Faisalabad, there were 318 cases of torture against women and children, 94 kidnapping cases and 41 rape cases in the past six months.

Some women's rights activists believe crimes against women remain under-reported in Pakistan, while others point to the increasing attention such cases get on social media as evidence that women today are more willing than before to report these crimes to police.

Several high-profile cases, including the murder of Noor Mukadam in Islamabad last July, have captivated national attention of late, highlighting the continuance of violence against women in the country, the Friday Times reported.

More US states plan ending mask mandates as Covid-19 cases drop Washington, Feb 9: More US states are planning to ease mask mandates for schools and indoor public settings amid the drop in recent surge of Covid-19 infections driven by the Omicron variant.

Officials in New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, California and Oregon have announced their states will lift indoor mask mandates for schools and other public places in coming weeks.

California is set to end a universal indoor mask mandate next week and roll back other restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of the highly transmissible Omicron variant, Xinhua news agency reported.

Connecticut will permit students and staff members to stop wearing masks in schools by no later than February 28. Delaware will end mask mandates in schools by March 31.

Statewide mask mandates for schools and indoor settings had been imposed in only a handful of states, according to a New York Times database.

The plans by these states represented "one of the biggest rollbacks of statewide health protocols" since the pandemic began, said a report of The New York Times.

The plans of easing mask mandates came as Covid-19 cases and hospitalisations continued to decline across the US. As of February 2, Covid-19 cases are down 53.1 per cent from their peak on January 15, according to data of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The country is averaging about 378,000 new daily cases nationwide

by February 2, a decrease of 37.6 per cent from the previous week,

according to CDC weekly data.

The country is currently averaging about 16,000 new hospital admissions each day, an 18 per cent drop from the pervious week, CDC data show.

Despite the drop in cases and hospitalisations, the current seven-day moving average of new deaths, which stood at about 2,400, has increased 1.6 per cent compared with the previous week.

"The increase of new deaths is largely because data on deaths tend to lag case data by two to three weeks," Zhang Zuofeng, Chair of the Department of Epidemiology at the University of California, Los Angeles, told Xinhua.

He expected daily new deaths would start to decrease from this week.

Meanwhile, the increase of new deaths has also demonstrated the high infectiousness and lethality of the Omicron variant, especially dangerous for older citizens and

those with chronic diseases, Zhang said.

The Omicron variant continued to be dominant in all infection cases in the US, with the CDC predicting the national proportion of Omicron to be 99.9 per cent for the week ending February 5.

The Omicron subvariant, known as BA.2, made up the remaining 3.6 per cent.

The CDC warned community transmission is still high nationwide.

Covid-19 cases among children have spiked dramatically since early January amid the Omicron variant surge.

Nearly 4.2 million child Covid-19 cases were reported since the beginning of January. More than 12 million children in the US have tested positive for Covid-19 since the onset of the pandemic, according to a latest report of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Children's Hospital Association.

Cambodia restores 3 more Buddha statues at Angkor Wat Phnom Penh, Feb 8: Cambodian authorities is restoring another three Buddha statues at Bakan tower of the famed Angkor Wat temple after the previous one was restored, the Apsara National Authority (ANA) said on Tuesday.

Soy Sophearin, technical officer with the ANA's Department of Conservation of Monuments and Preventive Archeology, said the restoration project of the Buddha statues began in early February and is scheduled to be completed within five months, reports Xinhua news agency.

"The Buddha statues in Bakan tower had been damaged by natural factors and bats' urine, a source of moisture and salinity," he said.

Cambodian experts will remove an old net and replace it with a new one in order to prevent bats from entering the structure, Sophearin said,

expressing hope that the bats will no longer be able to stay at the location when the restoration is completed.

In November last year, the experts also completed the restoration of a ruined Buddha statue in the south of the Bakan tower, he added.

The 401-square km Angkor Archeological Park, inscribed on the World Heritage List of the Unesco in 1992, is the kingdom's most popular tourist destination.

During the pre-Covid era, the site received up to 2.2 million international tourists in 2019, earning a gross revenue of $99 million in ticket sales.

Amid the pandemic, the site received 12,873 foreign visitors in 2021, down 96.8 per cent year-onyear, the Angkor Enterprise said, adding that it earned $528,121in ticket sales last year, down 97 per cent.

US has always used Pakistan: Imran Khan

New Delhi, Feb 11 (IANS): Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that the US has always used his country for its purposes, The News reported.

"Whenever the US needed us, they established relations, and Pakistan became a frontline state, and then abandoned it and slapped sanctions on us when its purposes were served," he said.

The Prime Minister made the remarks during an interview with

www.indianabroad.news

Eric Li, the director of the advisory committee of the China Institute at Fudan University.

On Pakistan-US relations, he said there was a time when Pakistan had friendly relations with the US; and when Pakistan was no longer needed, the US distanced itself from it.

Later, he continued, friendly relations between the US and Pakistan were restored and Islamabad became a friend of Washington.

"The US helped us at that time,

but as soon as the Soviet Union left Afghanistan, the US imposed sanctions on Pakistan."

He said that after nine years, when 9/11 happened, US-Pakistan relations got better again. When the US failed in Afghanistan, Pakistan was blamed for the defeat.

Khan said Pakistan has not maintained relations with the US as it has with China, the report said.

China is a friend of Pakistan which has stood the test of time, and Pakistan-China relations have been continuing for 70 years. Pakistan has been with China in every forum and China has supported Pakistan in every need.

During the interview, he dismissed outright the Western countries' suspicion of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Gwadar port and said that the projects were a great opportunity for regional development.

"I do not understand why there is suspicion about CPEC and the Gwadar port. It makes no sense because, as far as Pakistan is concerned, my number one priority is the country's 220 million people."

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POLITICS

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

The 10 main issues on which Modi lambasted Congress in Parliament

IANS

New Delhi, Feb 7: Starting with claiming that it seems the Congress has made up its mind not to return to power for 100 years, to inflation during Congress rule to calling it the leader of the 'tukde tukde gang', Prime Minister Narendra Modi's reply on Monday to the President's address was full of jibes at the Congress and at times its leader Rahul Gandhi.

The first jibe that Modi took at the Congress was how state after state has been deserting the Congress and listed all the states that have not voted Congress for more than 25 years. "If you have had feet on the ground, then you would have seen the work done by my government.

But most of you are stuck in 2014.

You are facing the result. You give a lot of advice but forget that you too have had the opportunity to sit here (on the treasury benches) for 50 years," Modi said.

He listed Nagaland, Odisha, Goa, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal,

Tamil Nadu and even Telangana and Jharkhand that were created during Congress rule.

Modi said the Congress lacked introspection and retrospection and that is why, despite the electoral losses, "it seems you are not ready to give up your arrogance. Also, your ecosystem does not allow you to let it go."

As he listed the achievements in various sectors, Modi also said that his government is working hard to make the defence sector Atmanirbhar. "Some may find this too problematic," he said as he looked at the opposition benches, mainly comprising Congress leaders.

Mentioning the problems faced by humanity during the corona pandemic, Modi said, "Congress crossed all limits during the pandemic time. The Congress government in Maharashtra handed over free tickets to migrants to leave Mumbai. In Delhi, the AAP government offered bus rides to people to leave Delhi and go back to their native places. As a result, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh all saw spiralling cases across these states."

Without taking the name of the Congress party but looking directly at the Congress leaders, Modi said some people were waiting that the corona virus will damage his image, which was out of opposition to Modi.

"It seems you have decided not to come back to power for 100 years.

But now that you have decided it I too have prepared for it."

Reacting to Rahul Gandhi's

comments on poverty and reminding that the Congress' favourite slogan during its time was 'Garibi Hatao' (poverty removal) that won it several elections then, "but then the poor of the country were fed up as it did not happen and finally voted them out after 2013."

Modi quoted Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru at least twice to attack the Congress. One of them was how Nehru blamed the Korean war for inflation or other reasons and said, the opposition constantly raises the issue of inflation. "During Congress/UPA rule, the inflation rate never came down below two digits.

We have managed inflation well even during the two years of the pandemic."

Taking the name of Congress leader and former Finance Minister P Chidambaram, who Modi said was writing columns criticising his government, and pointed out Rs 15 rise on water bottle or Rs 20 for ice cream is tolerable but public cannot tolerate Re 1 in wheat or rice price.

Modi quoted Tamil poet and author, Subramanyam Bharati and said the Congress tried to hurt Tamil pride, Tamil sentiment. I salute the people of Tamil Nadu who lined the streets for hours when they bid farewell to the mortal remains of late CDS Bipin Rawat.

But the most scathing was Modi's describing Congress as a 'tukde tukde gang' towards the end of his speech. "Congress has had this divide and rule policy as a legacy of British raj. And therefore Congress today is the leader of a 'tukde tukde gang'."

Congress thinking has been hijacked by urban Naxals: PM Modi IANS

New Delhi, Feb 8: A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the Congress Party as a 'TukdeTukde gang' in the Lok Sabha, he on Tuesday said in the Rajya Sabha that the principal opposition party's thinking has been hijacked by the urban Naxals.

Replying to the debate on the Motion of Thanks on the President's speech in the Upper House, he said, "It is said that we are trying to change history. Congress thinking has been trapped by urban Naxals." Saying that their (Congress) thinking has become destructive, Modi added, "We just want to improve the memory of some people. We are not changing history. Some people's history starts from a particular time, we are only going back. Some people's history is limited to one family."

Taking a jibe over the statement

made by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on the importance of federalism in the Lok Sabha last week where he said that India is a Union of States, Modi said that the Congress party has an objection to the word nation. Why do they not change the name of their party from Indian National Congress to Federation of Congress. "Correct the mistake made by your predecessors," he added.

Talking about cooperative federalism, Modi said that the GST Council is an example of the federal structure wherein the State finance ministers and Union Finance Minister sit as equals to make decisions. All decisions have been taken unanimously.

He said that like social justice, regional justice is also very important and considering that aspect we have selected aspirational districts

along with States. Apart from one State, all States have participated in the scheme and 100 districts were taken to improve the development indicators in these districts which are now even better than the rest of the districts in a state.

We have made improvements in the coal and mining sectors by giving more and more incentives, all income from the auctions have gone to state governments. "If states benefit, the country benefits. Odisha has been the finest example of cooperative federalism wherein the state cooperated with us shoulder to shoulder in implementing the reforms and the state Chief Minister must be praised for this."

Stating that States will be developed for the country's development, Modi said you all know what happened with me when I was Chief Minister of Gujarat. "But as CM I always used to say that the State will be developed for the country's sake.

People who ruled the country for decades, the way they exploited the States, they brought President's rule over 100 times and uprooted elected governments," he added.

Taking a dig at the Congress Party, he said that the grand old party did not even spare its own leaders. They divided Andhra Pradesh in a wrong way that both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana are fighting till now.

"Atalji also made three States, but it was done peacefully. We are not opposing Telangana, but it could have been done peacefully," Modi added.

'New India is China-nirbhar?' Rahul queries PM on 'Statue of Equality'

Hyderabad, Feb 9: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has used the 'Statue of Equality' as ammunition for his latest salvo against the Prime Minister and his 'New India' and 'Atma Nirbhar' slogans. The Prime Minister had on Saturday dedicated www.indianabroad.news

to the nation the 216 foot tall statue of Swami Ramanujacharya at Hyderabad.

Drawing attention to the giant statue manufactured in China and assembled in Hyderabad, Rahul tweeted,

"Statue of Equality is Made in China.

'New India' is China-nirbhar?"

According to sources, a China-based company had been issued the contract in 2015 for manufacturing the five-metal alloy statue. After completion of the production phase in China, it shipped in 1600 components which were assembled over a year and a half at the venue on Hyderabad outskirts.

The giant statue of the medieval saint and social reformer has been inaugurated as part of the 1000th birth anniversary celebrations of Ramanujacharya, by Hindu seer Chinna Jeeyar Swami.

The statue is considered as the world's second-largest statue in sitting position.

PM Modi's all out attack on Rahul Gandhi, Congress

Ommcom News

New Delhi, Feb 7: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party stating that the party had not lost its arrogance even when it had been out of power for so long.

He also said that Congress seems to have decided to not come back to power for 100 years, and he too is prepared for it.

"If you had feet on the ground, then you would have seen it. But most of you are stuck in 2014. You are facing the result. You give a lot of advice but forget that you too have had the opportunity to sit here (on the treasury benches) for 50 years," Modi said and went on to list the states that have not voted for Congress for

the last 25 years onwards.

People of Nagaland have not voted for Congress since 1998, that is 24 years. People of Odisha have not voted for Congress since 1995, that is 27 years; people of Goa has not voted for Congress since 1994, that is 28 years; Tripura since 1988, 34 years; Uttar Pradesh since 1985, 37 years; West Bengal since 1972, almost 50 years; Tamil Nadu last voted for Congress in 1962, almost 60 years before. "You take the credit for the formation for Telangana, but after that people there have not voted for you. Same in case of Jharkhand," he said.

"Question is not about the election result. But you don't seem to retrospect. Why is it that despite all

the electoral losses, it seems you are not ready to give up your arrogance.

Also, your ecosystem does not allow you to let it go," he said in a direct attack on Rahul Gandhi's criticism.

Then Modi recited a couplet in Urdu.

"Criticism is an ornament of live democracy, but blind opposition is disrespect to democracy," Modi said.

Criticizing Congress government in Maharashtra and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Delhi, Modi said, in the last two years, we have been facing the largest threat to humanity by way of the pandemic and Congress crossed all limits during the pandemic time, he said, immediately prompting slogans from the opposition benches.

Amid the chaos in the house, Modi waited for a few seconds and again started. "Congress government in Maharashtra handed over free tickets to migrants to leave Mumbai.

In Delhi, the government offered bus rides to people to leave Delhi and go back to their native places. As a result, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, all saw the spiraling of cases across these states. Even WHO had suggested to stay put wherever one was," he said.

Modi also said some people were waiting that coronavirus will damage his image, which was all out of opposition to Modi. "It seems you have decided not to come back to power for 100 years. But now that you have decided it, I too am prepared for it.

Rajnath slams Rahul Gandhi over China-Pak bonhomie comments Panaji, Feb 9 (IANS): Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday slammed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for blaming the BJP for the "friendship" between China and Pakistan, while adding that the bonhomie between the two neighbouring countries was ongoing during previous Congress regimes.

"He stood in Parliament in response to the presidential address and said that because of the BJP China and Pakistan have become friends. I want to ask you, have China and Pakistan become friends because of us? Or did it happened during their government," Singh said, while speaking at an election rally in South Goa. "I want to remind Rahul Gandhi that during the tenure of PM Nehru... I want to say this with utmost respect to Nehru. I don't want to disrespect him. During that time, Pakistan gave away the Shaksgam valley to China.

There was no PM from our party at that time," Singh also said.

Accusing Gandhi of spreading falsehoods, Rajnath Singh also said that the Karakoram highway through Pakistan occupied Kashmir was built during the tenure of former Prime Minister and Rahul Gandhi's grandmother late Indira Gandhi.

"I want to remind Rahul Gandhi that the Karakoram highway through PoK was built because of the friendship between China and Pakistan and the Prime Minister at that time was Indira Gandhi. China Pakistan

Economic Corridor was started during the tenure of Manmohan Singh as the PM of this country.

Their friendship has been going on since then. We did not do this," Singh said.

The Defence Minister also said that the Congress leader's claim of a lower fatality count among the Chinese armed forces during the Galwan valley clash has been proved wrong by recent disclosures made by an Australian newspaper.

"Rahul Gandhi said that when there was a skirmish between the India and China armies at the Galwan valley that only the two-four Chinese

soldiers died. What is Rahul Gandhi trying to do? I want to tell the senior leaders of Congress please make Rahul Gandhi understand. What is he talking? But after he spoke, an Australian paper brought out after investigations that in the Galwan incident 38-50 Chinese soldiers died," Singh said.

"I haven't said this. The BJP hasn't said this. It was an Australian paper that said this. I want Rahul Gandhi to understand we are proud of our armed forces that are defending our borders. You should never question them," he added.

roaming around with pipes in his mouth, nose. God did not let him die in peace."

Interestingly, Sardinha became the Chief Minister in 1999 with the support of 10 BJP MLAs, a contingent which was led by Parrikar. Months after propping up Sardinha, Parrikar had assumed power by suddenly withdrawing support to Sardinha's government.

Parrikar went on to become the Chief Minister on three more occasions and also served as the country's Defence Minister. He died in office as the Chief Minister of Goa in 2019.

Sawant said that Sardinha's comment was borne out of political frustration.

"They know that the Congress is coming back to single digits. They are venting their frustration with

such statements," Sawant said.

Goa CM slams Congress MP for criticising late Parrikar Panaji, Feb 12: Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Saturday slammed Congress Lok Sabha MP Francisco Sardinha for criticising former Defence Minister late Manohar Parrikar during an election rally on Friday.

"To speak about Parrikar like this after his demise is condemnable.

The whole of Goa is affected by Sardinha's comments. No political leader should talk about a person who is no longer alive like this. If you want to criticise, criticise us, criticise our central or state leaders," Sawant told a press conference on Saturday.

During an election rally in South Goa, Sardinha had said: "He (Parrikar) became a Chief Minister through deceit. There is a phrase in Konkani, 'at least let me die in peace'.

As we age, we fall ill, but he was

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SCI-TECH

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

Biden finally hails Elon Musk amid This is how Samsung rewrote smartphone history in last decade tough Chinese EV competition

New Delhi, Feb 9: As Samsung geared up to showcase its flagship Galaxy S22 series, the company on Wednesday shared how it has consistently been setting the bar for the industry with its latest models unveiled at every Unpacked event, and this year is going to be no different.

Samsung said in a statement that it has been leading the industry by introducing hardware (HW) and software (SW) that break the existing mold every year for the past 12 years since the unveiling of the first Galaxy S device in 2010.

"Some of the most game-changing so far include a large-screen smartphone with excellent immersion; a smartphone-stylus combination that enhanced productivity and creativity; and the world's first dual-pixel camera technology," said the South Korean major.

Samsung kicked off the trend of the large screen era in the smartphone industry with the introduction of their AMOLED display. This display, developed using Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode (AMOLED) technology, is characterised by its clear picture quality, self-luminescence and larger screen size.

The Samsung Galaxy S was the world's first smartphone to be launched with a Super AMOLED display, an ultra-thin screen that

consumes less power and provides crisper and more vivid picture quality.

Samsung has continued to take its AMOLED technology to the next level by unveiling devices with more powerful and more advanced screens.

With the introduction of the Galaxy Note equipped with S Pen, it is now possible to save and share everything from memos to drawings right on our smartphone's screen. In 2011, the Galaxy Note was launched with an S Pen that supported 256 levels of pressure onto the device's large screen.

Since then, both the Note and the S Pen have become inseparable, and as the series has developed, both have evolved significantly.

Samsung Knox, installed on Galaxy devices since the Galaxy Note 3 in 2013, protects devices on a step-by-step basis from the chipset to the operating system (OS) and application level, while also blocking hacking and unauthorized access.

In 2021, the company launched Samsung Knox Vault with the Galaxy S21 in order to thoroughly ensure the protection of ever-growing amounts of data.

Samsung expanded the horizon of smartphone experiences by applying waterproof and dustproof functions to the Galaxy S5 for the first time in 2014.

The IP68 rating is given to devices after testing in fresh water at a depth of 1.5m for 30 minutes.

The company introduced Samsung Pay, a mobile payment service that replaces the cash and credit cards in a user's wallet, on the Galaxy S6 in 2015.

In 2016, Samsung raised the smartphone camera function to a new level by installing the industry's first dual pixel in the Galaxy S7.

"At that time, the dual pixel was an image sensor only seen in high-end digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras. By increasing the amount of light received by both the front and rear cameras, the Galaxy S7 was able to focus quickly and accurately, as well as take optimal photos in dark environments," said Samsung.

One UI is an interface that supports the unique user experience of Samsung Galaxy, and was first introduced in November 2018.

Updated last year, it harnesses a completely different colour palette with which to decorate a device's home screen, icons, notifications and wallpapers.

In 2019, Samsung pioneered the field of foldable smartphones by unveiling the world's first Galaxy Z Fold, equipped with a 7.3-inch Infinity Flex Display.

Samsung not only pioneered a new form factor, but also new usability options through such functions as Flex mode, which allows for more usage scenarios by fixing the hinge at a specific angle, and Multi-Active Window, which can open and run apps at the same time with applications optimized for the foldable screen for a split screen view.

Last year, the company introduced the Object Eraser feature that lets you remove any unwanted objects in your photos with just a touch. The Object Eraser function, first introduced in the Galaxy S21, is a photo editing tool that harnesses artificial intelligence.

5G smartphone shipments to hit 64 mn in India in 2022: Report

New Delhi, Feb 9: After an uptick in 5G smartphone adoption in 2021, 5G smartphone shipments may reach 64 million in India amid spectrum auction later this year, a new report showed on Wednesday.

5G smartphones grew more than 600 per cent in India in 2021 and top five manufacturers accounted for 72 per cent share in the domestic 5G market last year, according to Gurugram-based market research firm CMR. "With 5G auction in late 2022 and roll-out thereafter, we foresee greater momentum for 5G smartphone

shipments. Smartphone OEMs will prioritise 5G, by leveraging favourable supply side dynamics, and will continue to drive 5G, especially at lower price tiers," said Anand Priya Singh, Analyst- Industry Intelligence, CMR. "After two years of pandemic, smartphone market players will be better prepared to navigate supply constraints in the new never normal," Singh added.

For 2022, the market research firm estimates a potential 15-18 per cent growth (on-year) in overall smartphone shipments.

The first half will continue to see supply-side constraints, with gradual easing in the second half of the year.

Last year, total smartphone shipments touched an all-time high of 166 million units, growing 11 per cent (on-year), with $37 billion in revenue.

"Amid the second pandemic wave and component shortages, 5G played a key role in the overall smartphone growth with its contribution increasing to 17 per cent in 2021. 5G shipments increased significantly (43 per cent) in the value for money (Rs 7,000-Rs 24,999) smartphone segment," said analyst Shipra Sinha.

In Q4 2021, Samsung led the 5G smartphone segment with 23 per cent market share followed by Apple at 14 per cent.

"One in every eight smartphones shipped in CY2021 was a premium smartphone. During the year, the premium smartphone segment grew 79 per cent (on-year)," Shipra added.

OnePlus Nord 2 accounted for more than 40 per cent of OnePlus's market share and was the top-selling overall model in the premium segment. The OnePlus Nord series accounted for more than 70 per cent of its market share, said the report.

Acer launches its 2nd 'Make in India' laptop

Bengaluru, Feb 9: PC brand Acer India on Tuesday announced that it has launched its second laptop -Aspire 3 -- under the Make in India scheme.

The company said that the price point it is aiming to bring is below Rs 30,000 and Acer believes this is a unique offering at a price point which "we don't see any other competing models which are made in India".

"Acer Aspire 3 is the first laptop under Aspire series that is www.indianabroad.news

manufactured locally with worldclass manufacturing standards that is on-par with global processes to deliver performance and quality which the customer demand," GS Sondhi, Senior Director -- Product Management, Acer India, said in a statement.

"Built on the Intel platform, this laptop delivers enough power to see you through your day be it work, learn or for general use," Sondhi.

The laptop is manufactured at the state-of-the-art manufacturing

facility in Noida. This is the second laptop to come out of the manufacturing line after the acclaimed TravelMate series laptops.

The Aspire 3 laptop is powered

by Intel processors, which deliver class-leading performance and features which allow the Acer Aspire 3 to handle everyday tasks with ease while providing a great value proposition to enable PC penetration and help India to be digitally empowered.

"We are already manufacturing desktops, all-in-one PCs and tablets in India, with this new initiatives, we have the capability to produce our complete PC product range starting with TravelMate series laptop and now the Aspire 3 series laptop for mainstream segment," the company said.

The company said it will focus on manufacturing laptops under the value segment, mainstream segment and education segment category with leading partners like Intel.

San Francisco, Feb 9: In his first-ever public acknowledgement of Elon Musk-run Tesla's contribution to the world of electric vehicles (EVs), US President Joe Biden has said that the country is building a reliable national public charging network to counter Chinese challenge in the EV market.

Biden's acknowledgement came after Tesla CEO Musk repeatedly complained on Twitter about being ignored by his administration.

"From iconic companies like GM and Ford building out new electric vehicle production to Tesla, our nation's largest electric vehicle manufacturer, to innovative younger companies, manufacturing is coming back to America after decades," he said late on Tuesday.

In a tweet on Wednesday, the US President added: "China has been leading the electric vehicle race, but that's about to change. We're building a convenient, reliable, equitable national public charging network. It'll make America more economically competitive and help us tackle the climate crisis at the same time".

Musk replied to his tweet, just saying 'Tesla'.

Last month, Musk said that Biden "is treating the American public like fools" after he met with executives from rival car companies General Motors and Ford Motor.

Biden invited GM CEO Mary Barra and Ford CEO Jim Farley to the White House along with other business leaders to discuss his administration's $1.75 trillion 'Build Back Better' legislation, which was stalled in the evenly split Senate after US Senator Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) refused to support the

legislation.

The massive spending bill would bump up the $7,500 tax credit to $12,500 for union-made electric vehicles and would also make GM and Tesla eligible for the existing tax credit again after they hit the 200,000-vehicle limit for the credit.

Biden touted GM's recent $7 billion investment in Michigan to ramp up electric vehicle production.

"Companies like GM and Ford are building more electric vehicles here at home than ever before," the president tweeted after the meeting, prompting the response from Musk that Biden was treating the American public "like fools".

Musk also tweeted that "Biden is a damp (sock) puppet in human form" and "Starts with a T, Ends with an A, ESL in the middle."

It is not the first time that Musk took on Biden.

The electric vehicle pioneer said in September last year that the US administration was "maybe a little biased" and "seems to be controlled

by unions."

2021 was a breakthrough year for Tesla and for electric vehicles in general, as the EV maker ended the year with $5.5 billion in net income, compared to $721 million in 2020.

For the full year 2021, the company delivered 936,172 vehicles, just short of the promised 1 million vehicles but still an increase of 87 per cent over the previous year.

According to Gartner, six million electric cars (battery electric and plug-in hybrid) are likely to be shipped globally in 2022, up from 4 million in 2021.

With China imposing a mandate on automakers requiring that EVs make up 40 per cent of all sales by 2030 and automakers establishing new factories for manufacturing electric cars, Greater China will account for 46 per cent of global EV shipments in 2022. North America is expected to be the third highest region in shipments of EVs this year, Gartner said.

WhatsApp starts rolling out new calling interface for select Android users San Francisco, Feb 12 (IANS): Metaowned WhatsApp has started rolling out a new interface for voice calls for select beta testers on Android.

According to WhatsApp beta tracker WABetaInfo, WhatsApp for Android beta 2.22.5.4 has brought the updated voice calling interface to some users.

A few users are also able to see the change on WhatsApp for Android beta version 2.22.5.3.

As of now, the new interface was not spotted on the iOS beta app, but the report says that WhatsApp might roll out to WhatsApp too in a future update.

To understand who is speaking on a group voice call, WhatsApp is working on bringing waveforms so that users can identify the speaker.

In addition, WhatsApp has been spotted working on a new screen for responding users about their

account ban reviews.

WhatsApp is also working on some new features, including tweaking the built-in camera and a redesigned

caption view, for iOS users.

With the latest betas, the app is tweaking the built-in camera, as well as revamping other functions.

NASA unveils first images from James Webb Space Telescope Washington, Feb 12: NASA has unveiled first images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) which represents early stages of the telescope's 18 main mirror segments properly aligning.

This image mosaic was created by pointing the telescope at a bright, isolated star in the constellation Ursa Major known as HD 84406.

This star was chosen specifically because it is easily identifiable and not crowded by other stars of similar brightness, which helps to reduce background confusion, the US space agency said in a statement late on Friday.

Each dot within the mosaic is labeled by the corresponding primary mirror segment that captured it.

What looks like a simple image of blurry starlight now becomes the foundation to align and focus the telescope in order for Webb to deliver unprecedented views of the universe this summer.

Over the next month or so, the team will gradually adjust the mirror segments until the 18 images become a single star, said NASA. "The entire Webb team is ecstatic at how well the first steps of taking images and aligning the telescope

/IndianAbroadNews

are proceeding. We were so happy to see that light makes its way into NIRCam," said Marcia Rieke, principal investigator for the NIRCam instrument and regents professor of astronomy, University of Arizona.

During the image capturing process that began February 2, Webb was repointed to 156 different positions around the predicted location of the star and generated 1,560 images using NIRCam's 10 detectors, amounting to 54 gigabytes of raw data.

The entire process lasted nearly 25 hours, but notedly the observatory was able to locate the target star in each of its mirror segments within the first six hours and 16 exposures.

These images were then stitched together to produce a single, large mosaic that captures the signature

/indianabroadnews

of each primary mirror segment in one frame.

"This initial search covered an area about the size of the full Moon because the segment dots could potentially have been that spread out on the sky," said Marshall Perrin, deputy telescope scientist for Webb.

Moving forward, Webb's images will only become clearer, more detail-laden, and more intricate.

A joint effort with the European Space Agency (ESA) and Canadian Space Agency, the Webb mission was launched on December 25 last year.

The $10 billion James Webb Space Telescope will explore every phase of cosmic history -- from within our solar system to the most distant observable galaxies in the early universe.

17

SPORTS

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

IPL Mega Auction: Ishan becomes second-most expensive Indian buy ever after 15.25 cr payday IANS

Bengaluru, Feb 12 (IANS): Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan became the second-most expensive Indian player in the history of IPL after being picked by his former team Mumbai Indians for a whopping INR 15.25 crores.

Kishan overtook Shreyas Iyer, who was picked for INR 12.25 crores, to become the most expensive buy of the ongoing auction so far.

Apart from Kishan, Sri Lanka leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga and West Indies batter Nicholas Pooran landed paychecks in excess of INR 10 crores in the third round.

Charu Sharma stepped in for the auctioneer duties after Hugh Edmeades had collapsed, with

Hasaranga bought by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for INR 10.75 crores. The move meant Hasaranga was reunited with the team he represented in IPL 2021.

As expected in case of keeper-batters, there was a frenetic bid for Kishan, a keeper who bats left-handed. His former team Mumbai Indians, Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans were engaged in a tug of war before Sunrisers Hyderabad made a late entry.

Mumbai persisted hard to buy back left-handed Kishan for a gigantic INR 15.25 crores.

Chennai and Hyderabad were in a battle to buy Pooran before Kolkata made a surprise entry.

But Hyderabad battled hard to buy Pooran, who averaged just 7.72 in 2021 edition, for INR 10.75 crores.

Apart from the trio, Washington Sundar and Krunal Pandya earned big. Gujarat, Punjab and Delhi Capitals were locked in a battle to get off-spin all-rounder Sundar.

Lucknow Super Giants came into the mix at INR 8 crore. But Hyderabad waded into the bidding war and bought Sundar for INR 8.75 crores.

For Pandya, a solid left-arm spin all-rounder for Mumbai in the past despite recent performances not up to the mark, Chennai, Punjab, Hyderabad, and Lucknow were in

the bidding battle. Then Gujarat jumped in as well. But it was Lucknow who won with INR 8.75 crores.

It also means that Pandya and Deepak Hooda, who were involved in a bitter spat ahead of the 2021 Syed Mushtaq Ali season, are now in the same IPL side.

Hyderabad and Gujarat were the initial bidders for Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh but Delhi joined in and eventually got him for INR 6.75 crores.

Punjab and Hyderabad were engaged in battle for Jonny Bairstow with Delhi. But Punjab stayed their ground to pick Bairstow for INR 6.75 crores.

Ambati Rayudu generated interest from Chennai, Delhi and Hyderabad.

But Chennai won the race to buy Rayudu for INR 6.75 crores. Chennai were then engaged in an engrossing battle with Bangalore to pick Dinesh Karthik.

Eventually, Bangalore snapped him for INR 5.5 crores, marking their reunion with Karthik after 2015 edition.

Afghanistan all-rounder Mohammad Nabi was surprisingly unsold so was Australia keeper-batter Matthew Wade. India keeper Wriddhiman Saha and England keeper-batter Sam Billings also found no takers.

Formula 1: Aston Martin reveal new car for 2022 season London, Feb 10 (IANS): British manufacturer Aston Martin on Thursday unveiled the car that they hope will propel them further up Formula 1's pecking order in 2022 season.

The team launched their new challenger, the AMR22, at Aston Martin's Gaydon base, with both Sebastian Vettel and Lance Stroll present to reveal a classic, but updated, racing green livery on a new-look 2022 car.

The AMR22 features a curvy aerodynamic design required by revolutionary new rules making their debut this year. The livery has also been updated, with lime detailing blended with what the team described as a "refined version of the traditional green livery".

Aston Martin are the third team to kick-off their season with a launch but their car is believed to be the closest so far to being the finished product. They will also complete a shakedown at Silverstone on Friday, giving fans a first glimpse of F1's new cars, which have been built to the technical regulations aimed at improving wheel-to-wheel racing and overtaking.

After finishing a disappointing seventh last year, their first season back in F1 following a 60-year absence, Aston Martin will be desperate for their AMR22 to compete further towards the front.

Vettel, the four-time world champion, will once again be partnered with Stroll, whose father Lawrence owns the team.

But Aston Martin have undergone big changes behind the scenes over the winter, with long-serving team boss Otmar Szafnauer having left, replaced by former BMW and Porsche man Mike Krack.

"We are continuing our journey to the summit of Formula 1. And we want to win. But we know that winning isn't easy, and that's why we have a five-year plan to keep climbing and to get to the top," team owner Lawrence Stroll was quoted as saying by Sky Sports.

Meanwhile Vettel said he is also excited about the prospect of racing the new car, adding that the main

thing is to keep moving forward.

"Look at that car, who wouldn't feel excited about the prospect of racing that? And when it comes to hopes for the season, I do not think anyone really knows what to expect," he said.

"There are new rules and of course all the teams will be hoping that they have got it right. Everyone wants to win, me included, and no one would be in Formula 1 if their dream was not to win. I am no different.

"The main thing is to keep moving forward and moving up. This is only year two of a five-year plan, so we are still quite near the start. But this team has big ambitions and big plans, and I am hugely excited to be a part of that," he added.

DC getting Warner was a Sarojini Nagar market-level bargain, says Jaffer Hazlewood, Zampa guide Australia to 20run win in opening T20I vs Sri Lanka New Delhi, Feb 12: Australia's swashbuckling batter David Warner was picked by Delhi Capitals (DC) for INR 6.25 crore in the IPL 2022 mega auction in Bengaluru on Saturday. However, former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer, who is known for his humorous posts on social media, has given Warner's price a different twist.

Jaffer feels that the franchise got the Aussie opener cheap and compared it to a "Sarojini Nagar market-level

bargain".

"Delhi people are known to strike a bargain, but getting David Warner for just 6.25cr is a Sarojini Nagar market level bargain #IPLAuction2022 #IPL2022," Jaffer wrote on social media platform Koo. Jaffer's post immediately got attention and a user termed it "the biggest heist of this" auction.

The user wrote, "It's a heist! Delhi pulled off the biggest heist of this #IPLAuction."

Warner was released by SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) after a disappointing IPL 2021 season which also saw him stripped of the team's captaincy.

But the opener bounced back brilliantly and played a crucial role in Australia's T20 World Cup glory last year.

The 35-year-old had a base price of INR 2 crore. Warner also started his IPL career with Delhi Daredevils, who changed their name to Delhi Capitals in December 2018.

Pat Cummins 'absolutely pumped' to don KKR colours again Bengaluru, Feb 12: Australian pace bowling stalwart and Test skipper Pat Cummins said he was "absolutely pumped" to be back with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) after the IPL franchise made a winning bid for the 28-year-old cricketer during the Mega Auction here on Saturday.

KKR brought back Cummins, shaking off a battle from new franchises Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans to buy him back for INR 7.25 crores after previously buying him for INR 15.5 crores in the IPL 2020 auctions.

Cummins was expected to command a much higher price in the bidding war as he was one of the marquee players in the auction, and the 2021 runners-up would be happy to get him back for a much lower price.

Cummins' presence will add to the wealth of bowling as well as leadership experience, as the quick recently guided Australia to a 4-0

win in the Ashes, and with great maturity handled the crisis in the wake of Justin Langer quitting his post as head coach. The tall pacer will now lead the team for the three-Test series against Pakistan next month before he arrives for the IPL 2022.

Cummins also gives KKR more options in captaincy as they also have Shreyas Iyer in the squad after the Indian cricketer was bought for a whopping INR 12.25 crore on Saturday.

KKR posted a video on social media where Cummins can be seen thanking the franchise CEO Venky Mysore and coach Brendon McCullum.

"Absolutely pumped to be back with Kolkata. Thanks to Venky (Mysore), Baz (Brendon McCullum), SRK (Shah Rukh Khan), the whole team.

Just absolutely pumped, so excited... want to come around quick enough.

Thanks for making me part of the galaxy of knights in the upcoming season," Cummins said in his

17-second video.

Cummins played seven matches in IPL 2021, taking nine wickets and scoring 93 runs. He has taken a total of 38 wickets in 37 IPL matches since 2014 when he made his debut in the lucrative league. He has so far played five IPL seasons -- 2014, 2015, 2017, 2020 and 2021.

Meanwhile a report in cricket.com. au said on Saturday that, Cricket Australia (CA) "is understood to have told IPL franchises that players involved in the white-ball series against Pakistan will not be released to travel until April 6, while players that make the Sheffield Shield final will not be able to travel until April 5".

Players wanting to participate in the IPL need a 'No Objection Certificate' from CA to compete, which dictates their availability. These are not usually withheld unless there is national duty, or a medical/fitness reason, the report said.

IANS

Sydney, Feb 12: Australian pace bowler Josh Hazlewood, returning to the side after missing four Ashes Tests due to a side strain, and Adam Zampa grabbed four and three wickets, respectively as the hosts defeated Sri Lanka by 20 runs in a rain-interrupted match to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series at Sydney Cricket Ground here.

Having been asked to bat first in a Thursday night match, Australia could manage a below-par 149/9 in 20 overs, with Ben McDermott the only one one to score a half-century.

Sri Lanka were then restricted to 1228/8 in 19 overs.

Australia lost captain Aaron Finch early, who failed to read the wrong 'un from Wanindu Hasaranga and was out bowled. McDermott, who made his comeback into the side after his brilliant performance in the Big Bash League (BBL), continued his good form and scored 53 of 41 deliveries.

After the wicket of Finch, debutant Jos Inglis and McDermott took the attack to the bowlers and completed their 50-run partnership before the latter was dismissed in the 11th over by Karunaratne. Captain Dasun Shanaka saw the opportunity and immediately brought Hasaranga back into the attack, which turned out to be perfect change as scalped the big wickets of Maxwell and Smith.

The Australian batters struggled to overcome the situation and kept losing their wickets in quick succession. Marcus Stoinis made 30 off 17 balls and was the only batsman apart from McDermott who looked comfortable in front of the Sri Lankan bowlers. Australia,

who were 90/2 at one point, finished their innings at 149/9.

Chasing 150 for the win, Sri Lanka got off to a poor start as they lost early wickets. The first wicket came when Danushka Gunathilaka tried to attack Hazlewood but ended up handing a catch straight into the hands of Stoinis at mid-wicket.

Avishka Fernando didn't trouble the scorers too much and lost his wicket to Cummins on six.

Opener Pathum Nissanka looked in good touch and with Charith Asalanka, steadied the ship.

Nissanka, however, in his attempt to accelerate the innings, lost his wicket to Zampa on 36. Zampa struck with another wicket in the same over and dismissed Asalanka, exposing the inexperience of the Sri Lankan batting lineup.

Hasaranga who had a brilliant night with the ball couldn't add much with the bat and lost his wicket to Zampa scoring 13 of 11 deliveries. Zampa's

three quick wickets in the middle overs later turned out to be crucial for Australia to win the match.

The rain had its part to play and the target was reduced to 143 in 19 overs.

After the resumption, Hazlewood in his second spell picked three wickets of Dasun Shanaka, Chamika Karunaratne and Dushmantha Chameera and to turn the match completely in Australia's favour.

He ended his spell with the figure of 4/12. Dinesh Chandimal was the only saving grace towards the end for Sri Lanka with 25 off 16, but was not enough to get Sri Lanka through as they fell short by 20 runs (by DLS method).

Brief scores: Australia 149/9 in 20 overs (Ben McDermott 53, Wanindu Hasaranga 3/38) beat Sri Lanka 122/8 in 19 overs (Pathum Nissanka 36; Josh Hazlewood 4/12, Adam Zampa 3/18) by 20 runs (D/L Method).

We are missing Mandhana, says Mithali after 62-run loss in first ODI Greg Chappell worried over where the

IANS

Queenstown, Feb 12: India ODI captain Mithali Raj admitted that the side was missing opener Smriti Mandhana after losing the first ODI to New Zealand by 62 runs on Saturday.

www.indianabroad.news

Smriti, along with pacers Renuka Singh and Meghna Singh, are still in the MIQ (Managed Isolation and Quarantine) facility of the New Zealand government.

"We are missing Smriti Mandhana and having an experienced batter in the side helps to chase a big target but it's an opportunity for the others in the side to sort of show their game," said Mithali in the postmatch presentation ceremony.

Chasing 275, India were never in the hunt to get over the line. Barring a partnership of 88 off 116 balls between Mithali (59) and Yastika Bhatia (41), the batting didn't step up to the occasion. Mithali stated that the batting has to be better.

"We should be able to score 270 because that's the standard now in women's cricket. We need to have a certain run-rate to maintain through the innings so were able to score at least around 250 or 270 whether we bat first or chase."

Asked if India was short of match practice ahead of the series, Mithali remarked, "We definitely had a preparation camp, but there has been a huge gap between coming into New Zealand with extended quarantine in Mumbai and here as well."

She felt playing a series against the hosts before the women's Cricket World Cup will benefit them.

"It is important to get used to the conditions, it's in a way good that we are playing as series before the World Cup." Mithali signed off by outlining the positives and negatives from the match.

"We definitely made a comeback in the latter half of the first innings. It took time for the bowlers to get used to the windy conditions, because there was a lot of breeze in the middle. The spinners are experienced a lot and they used to make a comeback in the innings."

future of Test cricket could be heading Sydney, Feb 10 (IANS): Former India head coach Greg Chappell is worried about where the future of Test cricket could be heading. Chappell, who scored 7110 runs in 87 Tests for Australia, believes that the longest format of the game will be 'virtually dead' if countries like Australia, India and England continue producing competitive red-ball sides.

"Looking at what's happening with Test cricket and how few countries are playing much Test cricket, I suppose the disappointment of England's performance in the Ashes series just highlights how the game has neglected Test cricket.

To produce Test cricketers takes a lot of work," said Chappell on SEN Mornings show on Thursday.

Chappell was critical of how Australia has scheduled its Sheffield Shield tournament due to the Big Bash League (BBL). "I think it's only

/IndianAbroadNews

the countries like England, Australia, India and to a lesser extent South Africa and Pakistan that have still got pretty vital domestic cricket. But even that, just look at the Australian example, the Big Bash takes out a big chunk of the Australian summer and the Sheffield Shield is slotted in around it as though it's an afterthought – it can't be an afterthought."

Chappell is aware of how much effort development of Test cricketers takes in Australia. "To develop top class Test batsmen takes many years and a lot of hard work by a lot of people and a lot of competition. I've just seen how much it has undermined our development of players."

"We spend many millions of dollars – 20 to 30 million dollar on our domestic cricket and our development programs, and even we're struggling to produce top class batsmen and I think we're in better

/indianabroadnews

shape than most."

Chappell further pointed out that for the small nations to produce good Test cricketers will be hard in future. "It's really only the sub-continental teams where there is still a lot of unstructured cricket being played in the streets. With big numbers, they're always going to produce some champion cricketers, but we're finding it harder and harder."

"The lesser nations, the ones who haven't got either very vital and viable domestic cricket or just haven't got the funds to be able to do that, it's going to be increasingly more difficult for them to produce competitive Test teams. All of a sudden, we're going to have maybe three or four countries playing Test cricket and I think if we get to that stage, Test cricket is virtually dead."

18

BUSINESS & INVESTMENT

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, BofA remain bullish Open international travel borders, extend free on Paytm, as company reports high top line growth tourist e-visas and begin marketing, says FAITH

New Delhi, Feb 8: Paytm, India's leading digital payments and financial services, reported its Q3 FY2021 results on Friday night, where it saw its revenues grow by 89 per cent to Rs 1,456 crore.

The company's income from payment services to merchants jumped by 117 per cent to Rs 585 crore, constituting 40 per cent of total revenues in the quarter ending December 2021 compared to the same quarter of the previous year.

EBITDA losses reduced to Rs 393 crore, excluding a one-time ESOP expense cost of Rs 390 crore recorded in Q3 FY 2022 from the grant of 26.6 mn Employee Stock Option (ESOPs).

Paytm's merchant base has grown to 24.9 million. This shows the adoption of Paytm's services and has also translated into high engagement seen in its average Monthly Transacting Users of 64.4 million, along with its merchant payments-led GMV of Rs 2.5 lakh crore.

Lending continues to be a big growth driver for the company with total loans at 4.4 million in Q3 FY2021, aggregating to a total loan value of Rs 2,177 crore. In the Merchant loans category, the company reported a growth in the total value of loans disbursed to Rs 471 crore, up by 127 per cent, with an average ticket size of Rs 120,000-Rs 140,000. In the Personal Loans category, the company recorded a growth of 1,923 per cent to Rs 515 crore, with an average ticket size of Rs 80,000-Rs 90,000. In the booming Buy Now, Pay Later Category, Paytm Postpaid saw its total value of loans go up by 408 per cent to Rs 1,190 crore, with a presence at

over 3.5 million online and offline merchants.

The company's strong quarterly results were welcomed by top brokerages Goldman Sachs Stock Rating Target Price Upgrade to Buy Rs 1460 Highlights: Strong growth outlook; risk reward attractive We believe Paytm's strong topline growth of 89 per cent YoY in 3QFY22 will help allay investor concerns around declining payments take rate in recent years. Net take rate, or spreads, which is revenue less payment processing charges (PPC) as a proportion of GMV, has seen a sharp improvement from +2 bps in FY21 to +8 bps in 3QFY22.

We expect Paytm's increase in scale to result in an improving margin trend, with the company reaching adjusted EBITDA breakeven by FY25E. We also note that Paytm has a strong balance sheet (US$1.4 bn cash as of December '21), and see limited likelihood of the company needing to raise capital again (US$210 mn annual cash burn).

Better than expected take rate and continued market share gains in payments vertical. Continued strong traction in lending, with new disclosures suggesting healthy performance of loan portfolio.

Cloud business tracking ahead of our expectations, led by advertising.

Key catalysts for growth include Approvals for the Raheja QBE

transaction and an SFB (small finance bank) license.

Morgan Stanley Stock Rating Target Price Overweight Rs 1425 Highlights: A leading digital platform with attractive risk reward PAYTM is a strong two-sided digital payments platform of merchants (>15 per cent market share in retail digital merchant payments) & customers (at ~115mn annual transacting users, it has >40 per cent share in unique mobile payment users).

Having built a strong customer acquisition engine via payments, it is now rapidly expanding into financial services digitally at low incremental costs.

We expect revenues to rise at 66 per cent/44 per cent CAGRs over the next two/five years, reaching Rs176bn in F26. We expect contribution margins to improve to ~42 per cent by F26, and the company to break even on EBIDTA in F25.

BofA Stock Rating Price Objective Neutral Rs 1130 Highlights: Solid operational quarter; sustaining the momentum is key Paytm reported a strong set of revenue & adjusted EBITDA. Even disclosures improved. We expect a positive reaction on stock price.

Revenue from payment services to consumers/ merchants jumped 15 per cent/46 per cent qoq & overall the payments & financial services revenue was up 33 per cent qoq.

Commerce/cloud biz revenues increased 61 per cent/28 per cent qoq and delivered a 37 per cent/20 per cent beat vs our estimates.

Revenue from operations grew 89 per cent yoy led by 1) increase in processing of merchant payments through MDR bearing instruments 2) increase in disbursements of loans on platform and 3) recovery of commerce business from Covid impact.

BITCOIN UPDATES

US seizes 94K stolen Bitcoins worth $3.6 bn in biggest ever crypto haul IANS

San Francisco, Feb 9: In a biggest-ever cryptocurrency haul, the US Department of Justice (DOJ) has seized and recovered over 94,000 Bitcoins worth $3.6 billion, stolen from crypto exchange Bitfinex by a US-based entrepreneur couple in 2016.

The couple -- Ilya Lichtenstein, 34, and Heather Morgan, 31 -- faces charges of conspiring to launder money and to defraud the US government, facing up to 25 years in prison if convicted.

They were arrested in Manhattan

for an alleged conspiracy to launder cryptocurrency that was stolen during the 2016 hack of Bitfinex, a virtual currency exchange, presently valued at approximately $4.5 billion.

"The arrests, and the department's largest financial seizure ever, show that cryptocurrency is not a safe haven for criminals," said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco.

"In a futile effort to maintain digital anonymity, the defendants laundered stolen funds through a labyrinth of cryptocurrency transactions," Monaco said in a statement late on Tuesday.

According to court documents, Lichtenstein and Morgan allegedly conspired to launder the proceeds of 119,754 bitcoin that were stolen from Bitfinex's platform after a hacker breached Bitfinex's systems and initiated more than 2,000 unauthorised transactions.

Over the last five years, approximately 25,000 of those stolen Bitcoins were transferred out of

Lichtenstein's wallet via a complicated money laundering process that ended with some of the stolen funds being deposited into financial accounts controlled by Lichtenstein and Morgan.

The remainder of the stolen funds, comprising more than 94,000 bitcoin, remained in the wallet used to receive and store the illegal proceeds from the hack, said the DoJ. "Federal law enforcement demonstrates once again that we can follow money through the blockchain, and that we will not allow cryptocurrency to be a safe haven for money laundering or a zone of lawlessness within our financial system," said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite Jr. The couple have been charged with conspiracy to commit money laundering, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, and conspiracy to defraud the US, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison.

New Delhi, Feb 7: FAITH, the policy federation of all the national associations representing the complete tourism, travel and hospitality industry of India (ADTOI, ATOAI, FHRAI, HAI, IATO, ICPB, IHHA, ITTA, TAAI, TAFI) has placed an urgent request on the opening up of India's international borders to tourists and to permit all commercial flights in full strength to operate to and fro from India.

FAITH said, that Indian inbound travel and outbound travel industry has been shut for the past 23 months. In the pre-COVID year of 2019-20 Indian travel industry had received almost 10.9 mn foreign tourists and almost $30 bn (Rs

2.12 lakh crore) in revenue and was engaged in travel planning for almost 26.9 mn outbound travellers from India.

Both of those two lines of businesses have been completely closed rendering huge distress, unemployment and financial burden on employees and enterprises of Indian travel industry in the absence of that work.

A lot of countries have now opened or have announced opening up their borders to fully vaccinated travellers with the impact of Omicron subsiding.

FAITH has requested MOT to take up with Ministry of Health, the same

for India and announce the opening up of our borders and resumption of full commercial flights with zero quarantine to fully vaccinated travellers across all Indian ports.

FAITH has also requested for extension of the free e-visa from the currently announced 0.5 million for the whole duration of 2022-2024 till our inbound travel recovers.

To ensure that Indian tourism is able to regain and then build on its market share of 1 per cent which was pre-Covid in the global inbound travel, FAITH has asked for immediate rollout of global marketing campaign across all digital, print, electronic and OOH media in all global markets of India.

Gautam Adani becomes Asia's richest person

New Delhi, Feb 8: The Indian coal mining tycoon Gautam Adani has become Asia's richest person thanks

to a push into green energy that has boosted his fortune to $88.5bn, The Guardian reported.

Adani has overtaken fellow countryman Mukesh Ambani to enter the top 10 of the world's richest people, according to figures from Forbes and Bloomberg, after seeing his personal fortune rise by $12bn in the past year.

Among the mega-rich whom Adani has leapfrogged to reach the world top 10 are Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg, who slipped down the table several places last week after losing $ 30 billion of his personal fortune, the report said.

His Adani Group controls the port of Mundra, India's largest, in the mogul's home state of Gujarat and he also owns 74 per cent of Mumbai international airport.

But his push into green energy has paid off handsomely in the past year with the listed company Adani Green Energy now his most valuable after its share price almost doubled in the past 12 months, the report said.

The group is in the process of ploughing $70bn into green energy projects by 2030 with the aim of becoming the world's largest renewable-energy producer.

J&K govt dispels milk dumping report as 'attention grabbing' tactics Srinagar, Feb 7 (IANS): The Jammu and Kashmir government on Monday dispelled some media reports which said the dairy farmers in the Valley were dumping their milk into drains for want of adequate market.

Navin Choudhary, principal secretary agriculture production and farmers welfare department animal told IANS, "That was just an incident in isolation. This was done to grab attention.

"We have reached every major milk producer in Kashmir and there is no truth in the rumour that dairy farmers are finding it difficult to sell their produce".

Choudhary said J&K is going to be milk surplus UT by 2023.

"We are ensuring that various purchasers like Amul, etc. continue to impart value addition to our milk production.

"Amul is increasing its take off capacity by one lakh litres. Similarly, other buyers are also increasing their take off capacity.

"Value addition by way of conversion into cheese, butter, milk powder and Ghee is being done regularly so that our produce is adequately marketed," the principal secretary said.

He also said that the incident of throwing their milk produce into drains was reported from one place

in Ganderbal district while the maximum production of milk comes from south Kashmir Pulwama district in the Valley.

"If our dairy farmers are not finding an adequate market in Pulwama, which is the major milk producing district in the Valley, how come we have no complaints from that district?" the top official said.

He assured every major milk producer in not only the Valley, but the entire J&K that the government is doing everything needed to provide technical support, guidance and financial assistance, etc., to the farmers interested in dairy and other allied agricultural activities.

Crypto party over in India with 30% tax on digital assets New Delhi, Feb 1: Hitting hard private cryptocurrency exchanges and apps which are luring millions, especially the young, into investing their hard-earned money in Bitcoin and other digital tokens, the government on Tuesday announced a 30 per cent tax on any income from the transfer of virtual digital assets, specifying that no deductions and exemptions will be allowed.

Stressing that since there has been a phenomenal increase in transactions in virtual digital assets, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, presenting the Budget 2022-23, said that the magnitude and frequency of these transactions have made it imperative to provide for a specific tax regime.

"Accordingly, for the taxation of virtual digital assets, I propose to provide that any income from transfer of any virtual digital asset shall be taxed at the rate of 30 per cent," she said, clearing the air around the taxation on cryptocurrencies.

"No deduction in respect of any expenditure or allowance shall be allowed while computing such income except cost of acquisition.

Further, loss from transfer of virtual digital assets cannot be set off against any other income," she stressed.

In order to capture the transaction details, she also proposed to provide for TDS on payment made in relation to transfer of virtual digital assets at the rate of 1 per cent of such consideration above a monetary threshold.

"Gift of virtual digital assets is also proposed to be taxed in the hands of the recipient," the Finance Minister said.

"No Crypto bill but taxation at 30 per cent of virtual asset transfer gains and an additional 1 per cent tax collection at the time of transfer means that party seems to be over for crypto assets and exchanges," former Union Finance Secretary

Subhash Chandra Garg, a key figure behind drafting the original Crypto bill, told IANS. The Cryptocurrency and Regulation of Official Digital Currency Bill 2021, seeking to prohibit all private cryptocurrencies in India, was set to be tabled in the Winter Session of Parliament that began on November 29. But the Bill did not make it to the table -- second time in a year -- as the chorus around the legality of digital coins and how to safeguard investors' money grew louder.

There are an estimated 15 to 20 million crypto investors and there is no clarity on the size of the Indian crypto market.

Reports late last year claimed that Indians have invested over Rs 6 lakh crore in crypto assets to date -- a figure which is highly questionable, as no one has any actual idea about the kind of money being routed via crypto exchanges.

Netflix announces docu series on couple behind biggest-ever crypto scam San Francisco, Feb 12 (IANS): After the US Department of Justice (DOJ) this week seized and recovered over 94,000 Bitcoins worth $3.6 billion, stolen from crypto exchange Bitfinex by a US-based entrepreneur couple in 2016, streaming giant Netflix has now announced a documentary series on the biggest-ever crypto scam.

The couple -- Ilya 'Dutch' Lichtenstein, 34, and Heather Morgan, 31 -- faces charges of conspiring to launder money and to defraud the US government, facing

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up to 25 years in prison if convicted.

Netflix said in a statement late on Friday that filmmaker Chris Smith of 'The Greatest Party That Never Happened' and 'Tiger King' fame, is set to direct and executive produce the documentary series along with executive producer Nick Bilton of 'Fake Famous' and' The Inventor: Out for Blood in Silicon Valley' fame.

"Netflix has ordered a documentary series about a married couple's alleged scheme to launder billions of dollars worth of stolen cryptocurrency in the biggest criminal

financial crime case in history," said the company.

Lichtenstein and Morgan were arrested in their New York City apartment on February 8, and now face charges of conspiring to launder nearly 120,000 Bitcoin tied to the 2016 hack of a virtual currency exchange.

As the value of the stolen Bitcoin soared from $71 million at the time of the hack to nearly $5 billion, the couple allegedly tried to liquidate their digital money by creating fake identities and online accounts, and

buying physical gold, NFTs, and more - all while investigators raced to track the money's movement on the Blockchain.

Over the last five years, approximately 25,000 of those stolen Bitcoins were transferred out of Lichtenstein's wallet via a complicated money laundering process that ended with some of the stolen funds being deposited into financial accounts controlled by Lichtenstein and Morgan.

The remainder of the stolen funds, comprising more than 94,000

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bitcoin, remained in the wallet used to receive and store the illegal

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proceeds from the hack, said the DoJ.

19

HEALTH

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

Mental health toll from Covid Govt spent Rs 250 crore on may last a generation: Experts vaccine research: Health Minister TOI

New York, Feb 10 (IANS): While Covid has affected people physically and economically, the pandemic has also increased mental health issues globally, and these may continue till a generation, experts have said.

Globally, psychologists and psychiatrists are reporting an influx of people seeking mental health support during the pandemic, CNBC reported.

The increase in anxiety and depression is seen in both new and old patients.

"I have never been as busy in my life and I've never seen my colleagues as busy," Valentine Raiteri, a psychiatrist working in New York, was quoted as saying.

Numerous studies on the impact of Covid on mental health have been carried out. One study, published in The Lancet medical journal in October, looked at the

global prevalence of depression and anxiety disorders in 204 countries and territories in 2020 due to the Covid pandemic, the report said.

Surprisingly, it found that mental health dramatically declined in that year, even after an estimated 53 million additional cases of major depressive disorders and 76 million additional cases of anxiety disorders seen globally.

The experts explained that in the beginning of the pandemic in the spring of 2020, there was little understanding of how long the pandemic would last.

While there was a surprising amount of resilience during the first few months of the virus' outbreak, Raiteri said that over time, the loss of daily social contact started to take its toll.

"There's definitely a huge mental health impact from a long period

of uncertainty and change that's left people very isolated and not sure how to connect. Just being out in public and interacting in a very casual way with strangers or mild acquaintances, that's very regulating, and norm-creating and reality affirming," he noted.

Further, the pandemic meant that many people had to confront issues in their life that they'd been able to avoid before, such as alcoholism, relationship issues, isolation and loneliness, Natalie Bodart, a Londonbased clinical psychologist and head of The Bodart Practice, was quoted as saying.

"Our day to day lives serve as great defense mechanisms, we have lots of distractions that help us to avoid things, for good and for ill," she said.

According to Katherine Preedy, a clinical psychologist based near London, "this is a whole generation (that's been affected by Covid), it's two years of our lives, I think this will have a big impact".

"There may be first responders, people in hospitals, who are still very much in that survival mode, and then, there's obviously the emotional impact on people, whole industries being lost, the health (impact)," Preedy was quoted as saying.

She noted that mental health professionals are also under pressure to help a greatly increased number of patients.

Alex Desatnik, a consultant clinical psychologist in the UK, told CNBC that he believes it will take "at least a generation" to resolve the damage to many young people caused by missed milestones and experiences crucial for development, the report said.

Prince Charles tests Covid positive; goes into self-isolation IANS

London, Feb 10 (IANS): Britain's Prince Charles has tested positive for Covid-19 and is now self-isolating, said Clearance House, the official Twitter account of Prince Charles and his wife Camilla, on Thursday.

It is the second time that the 73-year-old has contracted the novel coronavirus, after he fell ill with the virus in March 2020. He had been due to unveil a statue in Winchester on Thursday.

Prince Charles received the positive result Thursday morning and had to reschedule his visit to events in Winchester, Clarence House said, adding that Charles was triple vaccinated, Xinhua news agency

reported.

It also said his wife Camilla had tested negative in a routine test on Thursday.

On Wednesday, Prince Charles and his wife met people at a reception in the British Museum. High-profile guests with whom he had close contact include Home Secretary Priti Patel and Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak.

It remains unclear if Prince Charles has recently been in physical contact with 95-year-old Queen Elizabeth, who only days ago marked her Platinum Jubilee, the 70th anniversary of her accession to the throne.

TN eases more Covid curbs; primary schools, playschools to open

Chennai, Feb 12: With the number of Covid-19 cases coming down, the Tamil Nadu government has eased the lockdown restrictions in the state, officials said, adding primary schools, play-schools, and nursery schools will open from Wednesday, on February 16.

This was announced by the state government in a statement on Saturday.

The primary schools, playschools, and nursery schools are set open in

the state after two years.

The government also allowed trade fairs while political, social, and cultural programmes will not be allowed to be conducted till March 2. The number of persons allowed for marriage functions is increased from 100 to 200 while for funerals 100 people are allowed to participate.

Hotels, restaurants, bakeries, multiplexes, theatres, shops, showrooms, jewellery stores, clubs, gyms, sports

events at indoor stadia, beauty parlours, salons, and amusement parks will be allowed to function with 100 per cent capacity.

These entities were allowed to function with only 50 per cent capacity as part of the Covid-19 restrictions.

It is to be noted that the daily fresh Covid-19 cases have come down from 30,744 on January 22 to 2086 in February 11.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin in a statement said: "The state government announced various relaxations considering the livelihood of the people. I request to the people of the state to wear masks in public places, maintain social distancing, and to take double vaccination."

The Chief Minister appealed to all shop owners to ensure that their employees and customers are wearing masks. Shops are asked to keep hand sanitisers at the entrance and allow customers inside only after thermal screening.

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Gandhinagar Feb 12 (IANS): Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said on Saturday that the Central government has spent Rs 250 crore on research for developing vaccines to counter the Covid-19 virus.

Mandaviya was addressing a programme to explain the benefits of the Union Budget 2022-23 at the Gujarat BJP headquarters here.

"The Centre spent and shared Rs 250 crore with government and private research institutes working on developing Covid vaccines. We started taking action long back as we knew that vaccination was the key to fight the global pandemic. In order to develop vaccines, research was needed. In April 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called upon the scientists of both government and private institutes and encouraged them to develop vaccines.

Irrespective of whether they succeeded, the Centre supported them with funding.

"As a result, our scientists developed indigenous Corona vaccine, parallel to the other developed countries, and the nationwide vaccination drive was rolled out on January 16, 2021. We also started manufacturing rapidly and before the third wave struck, we vaccinated a large section of the population. We have achieved 96 per cent vaccination for the first dose, and 77.5 per cent for the second dose. Experts say that in India, 99.31 per cent of vaccinated people (first and second dose) were kept safe from Covid-19 due to vaccination," Mandaviya said.

Stating that India is a vast country with so many cultural, social and financial diversities, the Health Minister said, "So we have made the Budget an all inclusive and comprehensive one with a longterm vision, considering a period of 25 years. This is the vision of the Prime Minister, and that is why we are saying that the Budget is for the 'Amrit Kaal'.

"We also identified 53 raw materials essential for manufacturing, for which we were dependent on other countries. We have come out with the Product Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, where 20 per cent of what the manufacturers are losing out due to buying Indian raw materials is being provided by the government. The government spent Rs 4 lakh crore on the PLI scheme in

the last one-and-a-half years. We are planning more such PLI schemes."

The minister said that the government is also planning to come up with a 'Land Bank', where land required for any purpose will be available on a dashboard in order to ease land availability.

"We are also planning a data and analytics centre for data storage and analysis. Data is the need of the hour. The government will provide infrastructure to those who are into data analysis and data storage," added Mandaviya.

The minister also spoke about developing a national industrial corridor, which will be formed to chalk out a 25-year plan for developing industries, based on scientific assessment.

MP lifts Covid curbs, schools to resume at 100% capacity Bhopal, Feb 12: To further ease Covid-19 restrictions in the state, the Madhya Pradesh government on Friday announced to lift all restrictions put earlier in the state.

With this step, all kinds of public movements that were either banned or capped with certain numbers, will be allowed at full capacity.

Schools, colleges and coaching centres that have been allowed to run with 50 per cent capacity, will now be permitted to open with their full strength. All political, social, religious, business, sports activities, among others will be allowed to function at full capacity across the state.

Rallies and all kind of fairs will also be allowed to run in the state while cinema, sports, and business gathering will be allowed to function at its full capacity.

A notification issued by the State Home department on Friday said the order will come into effect from Friday onward, however, the night

curfew imposed between 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. will still continue. District Collectors have been directed to ensure that Covid-19 related norms are followed in the areas where fresh cases are being reported.

"District Collectors are advised to monitor the Covid situation in their respective districts and continue with the implementation of micro-containment zone in the areas where new Covid-19 cases are coming," the notification added.

The fresh notification regarding the Covid-19 restriction has come a week after the state government removed the cap on number of guests attending marriage ceremonies earlier on February 5. Earlier, due to a spike in Covid-positive cases, the state government had capped the number of people attending weddings at 250 from January 15.

"Covid cases in Madhya Pradesh are declining and positivity rate has also come down in the last few days.

Overall the Covid situation is under

control and hence the government has decided to lift all kind of restrictions put earlier in view of the pandemic," said Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan.

Over 1.5 cr teens of 15-18 age group fully vaccinated New Delhi, Feb 14: Over 1.5 crore of the adolescents between 15 and 18 age bracket have received both doses of the vaccine against the Covid pandemic. As per the government CoWIN portal, a total of 6,85,37,438 youngsters of this age group have been administered Covid vaccines so far, of them 1,50,14,801 have received both the doses.

As per the ministry report on Monday morning, a total of 5,21,32,053 first vaccine doses and 1,50,14,801 second doses have been administered among adolescents of 15 to 18 age group.

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said that the young India is fighting the pandemic with full vigour. "Young India is fighting the pandemic with full vigour. Over 1.5 crore youngsters between the 15-18 age group are fully vaccinated now", Mandaviya said in a tweet on Monday.

With the administration of more than 11.66 lakh vaccine doses in the last 24 hours, India's Covid-19 vaccination coverage has exceeded 172.95 crore, as per the health ministry's report on Monday morning. This has been achieved through 1,93,87,689 sessions.

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A total of 1,73,29,125 precaution doses have also been administered so far to the eligible beneficiaries which include 38,86,601 healthcare

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workers, 54,08,921 frontline workers and 80,33,603 over 60 plus population.

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21

TRAVEL

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

Carry these essentials on your next train ride T

77% of Indian travellers hope to find travel romance on their next trip

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OVID-19 variant (Omicron) has unfortunately stretched our fight against the virus to its third year. Though the Indian Railways has requested to exercise general precautions as necessary, such as the postponement of travel dates if not an emergency, some preventive measures are issued by IRCTC that you can take to travel responsibly.

Passengers are advised to travel only with confirmed tickets.

Face masks & hand hygiene is mandatory to follow.

Reach the station at least 90 minutes before departure for necessary Covid protocols.

Social distancing to be followed at the station and on the train.

Passengers to follow all safety protocols at the station.

The catering service is on hold to contain the spread of the virus.

No blanket or linen will be provided, if applicable.

Long-distance trains will continue

he world continues to navigate the pandemic's uncertainties, 2022 will be the year to capitalise on unpredictability. Recent research by leading travel brand Booking.com revealed that finding holiday romances is expected to be on the agenda of Indian travellers this year as they remain optimistic about travel possibilities and make up for lost vacation time. With the Valentine's season upon us, Booking. com's Travel Predictions 2022* research revealed that 2022 will be the year for Indian travellers to branch out and make new connections.

Swipe right on new faces and places People who have grown tired of swiping through the same faces for the past year and a half will use their favourite dating apps while on vacation in 2022, with travel providing an exciting opportunity to find love.

According to research, there will be a resurgence of holiday romances, with 77 percent of Indian travellers hoping for one on their next trip. In fact, the study found that 74 percent of Indian travellers prefer to stay near a variety of nightlife options so that they can meet new people.

While a vacation can serve as a starting point for holiday romance, it doesn't have to end when the two of you part ways at the end of the trip, thanks to video calls becoming more common in our daily lives.

as per the schedule, but local trains will operate with 50% of their capacity.

Some states may demand a negative RT-PCR test from passengers. It’s recommended that a passenger goes through their destination’s travel guidelines before hopping on the train.

Is it comparatively safe to travel via trains after COVID 19 vaccination?

Though more than 1 billion people are already vaccinated, it significantly reduces your chances of getting ill and further spreading the virus. But it's important to understand that no vaccine provides 100% protection, so adhering to COVID protocols serves as a smart decision for you and your family.

What safety precautions can you instill while travelling?

Following are a set of standard precautions you can take while you are travelling: Wear masks in public locations where COVID-19 is widespread and physical isolation is not practicable.

Avoid congested areas and restricted & enclosed environments with inadequate ventilation.

When you’re out in public, try to keep a physical distance of at least 1 meter between you and other people.

Frequently wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand solution.

Keep your hands away from your face (eyes, nose, and mouth).

Regularly clean and disinfect touched surfaces such as phones, keys, doorknobs, and light switches.

Consider the safest dining options if you prefer to eat outside. It is safer to eat outside or order takeout than eat in a closed space. Before you eat, remember to wash or sanitise your hands properly.

A strict adherence to COVID protocols and guidelines is recommended by the government. If you decide to travel via train to any domestic destination, follow the above guidelines to ensure your safety.

Indian hospitality sector witnessed a 100.3 percent YoY RevPAR growth

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ith improved vaccination rates and fewer travel restrictions the Indian hospitality industry is currently on an upward trend, with traveller confidence. The Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) witnessed a growth of 100.3 percent year-onyear (YoY) in Q4, 2021. The quarterly RevPAR of Q4 (October-December) was at 41.9 percent , according to JLL’s Hotel Momentum India (HMI) Q4, 2021.

Whilst the latter part of Q4 started to witness some impact from the Omicron wave, last quarter (Q4, 2021) was largely the best performing period of the last year bolstered by long weekends, holidays during festivals and social gatherings.

Business travel also resumed albeit in low numbers in some markets.

The last quarter of 2021 (Q4 2021) also witnessed a significant increase in international arrivals as compared to the same time in the previous year

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“Hotel performances across major cities in India witnessed stellar growth in Q4 2021 before the onset of the third wave of the pandemic. Corporate travel started to witness a recovery on the back of improved confidence in the office sector as commercial real estate witnessed the highest net absorption rate over the last eight quarters. Furthermore, staycations, long weekend leisure demands, weddings, and social gatherings continued to remain the base business for the hospitality sector.

Improved road infrastructure particularly to hill destinations has given impetus to road travel. This immediate recovery would not have been possible without improved confidence in the minds of travellers due to the high vaccination rates achieved by the nation. The hospitality sector is likely to recover well in 2022 even as uncertainty around different Covid variants and waves continue,” said Jaideep Dang, Managing Director, Hotels and

Hospitality Group, South Asia, JLL. The next two quarters are expected to witness growth in airline and rail travel and provide impetus to hotel performances as the current wave subsides. The domestic segment will continue to drive demand for both corporate and leisure travel. As restrictions against social gatherings ease, the social MICE (Meetings Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) segment will improve to provide much-needed business to the industry going forward.

The total number of hotel signings in Q4 of 2021 stood at 85 hotels with 7,347 keys. The hotel signings witnessed a significant increase of 81.9 percent as compared to signings in Q4 2020. Domestic operators dominated signings over international operators with a ratio of 52:48 in terms of inventory volume.

Travel as a means to expand social circle Meeting new people is frequently the beginning of a romance. For many, the pandemic meant spending an extended and intense period of time with our closest friends and loved ones, with little time to meet new people. We anticipate that in 2022, travellers will use their vacations to broaden their usual social circles, with 81 percent of Indian travellers wanting to meet new people while away. Furthermore, 77 percent of Indian travellers anticipate socialising while on vacation in order to broaden their social circles.

The data shows that Indians will travel to leisure destinations such as Goa, Jaipur, Manali, and Udaipur, as well as metros, from the 11th to the

IANS

14th of February 2022 to celebrate.

During this time, hotels were the most popular type of accommodation, followed by resorts and guest houses.

“The pandemic has forced us to rearrange our priorities in life and realise that freedom has never been more precious than it is now,” said Ritu Mehrotra, Regional Manager, South Asia at Booking.com.

According to our Travel Predictions 2022 research, travellers will not only reconnect with friends and family in 2022, but will also actively seek out new relationships. Booking. com will be there to help travellers reclaim their travel mojo and enjoy all of the unforgettable experiences travel has to offer as they set out to explore new relationships and meet new people while away.”

Emerging unique travel sentiments in 2022

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ravel in 2022 will be different.

Especially after the ongoing third wave of the pandemic.

Priorities will be re-defined as there are unique travel sentiments that are emerging.

The Indian travel and tourism industry has shown a positive sign of recovery from the effects of the second wave, and more people are looking at 2022 as the year of travel and experience. Based on a strong vaccination drive, travellers who couldn’t travel to their preferred destinations last year are now looking to revive that travel sentiment.

This new mindset that travellers need to adopt has also changed the way we travel and EaseMyTrip shares emerging travel trends that are set to dominate in 2022.

Wellness Travel The pandemic has made more people realise the importance of self-care and their well-being.

Travellers looking to partake in their next adventure are realizing the importance of managing their wellbeing, even amid their travels.

Travellers have been showing a preference for places that help them get away from their routine lives, and are choosing destinations that offer good wellness programs and benefits. Travellers looking to rejuvenate their mind and body have no shortage of beautiful destinations to pick from, not only the international destinations but within the country as well. Destinations like Kerala, Uttarakhand and Switzerland will emerge as some of the most preferred places for those who are looking to relax, rejuvenate and calm their senses.

Sustainable Travel In 2022, we can expect to see a revival of the sustainable travel industry with more travellers opting to visit places that are known for

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being sustainable, and which have a minimal impact on the environment. Sustainable travel entails not partaking in activities that harm the environment and culture of local people. Many local governments in India are also undertaking measures to reduce the carbon footprint in the travel industry and support local businesses and people as well.

Eco-Tourism is another branch of sustainable travel through which tourists visit destinations that are built around the eco-systems that they are present in, all while doing as minimal damage to the environment as possible. As a part of this, there are also people looking for tourist experiences that offer more meaningful and mutually beneficial experiences. This can include rebuilding rural communities and taking part in impactful conservation efforts. Travel portals such as EaseMyTrip are supporting this initiative by signing an MOU with the Ministry of Tourism to provide visibility to local accommodations and also to promote safe and sustainable tourism.

Leisure Travel For nearly 2 years, travel limitations and work from home culture has caused travellers to have to restrict themselves in terms of the places that they wanted to visit. While the world is still reeling from the impact of the pandemic, travellers want to take a step back, relax and embrace the experiences that they missed out on. While the primary motivation for leisure travel is to break away from the monotony of everyday life, travellers are looking at this kind of travel to engage in new experiences and to visit tourist attractions that have been growing in popularity, even if the destinations are closer to home and places they might have visited in the past.

Once in a Lifetime Travel

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Travellers all over the world realize that the future is uncertain, and lockdowns can be imposed at any moment given the present scenario.

This has caused a change in the mindset of tourists who believe that they should focus on the now instead of the distant future. Travellers have been looking to visit places that they have dreamed about, and are making plans that they were unable to fulfil over the course of the last two years. Travellers are now significantly more comfortable in spending more on travel and stay options than they were before, thereby making the idea of a ‘once in a lifetime' travel extremely popular.

Tech-driven Travel The pandemic gave a boost to tech integration in the travel industry, which is why it is no surprise that this is a trend that we expect, will surface in 2022. Hotels across the world are already using smart technology and this is only expected to grow as more hotels realize the importance of integrating technology into their hotels, for their visitors.

Right from keyless doors, VR tours and QR code-driven menus to robot housekeeping and voice-controlled rooms, the hospitality industry is set to completely change in the coming year. Many destinations are also now offering virtual reality tours of their destinations to give travellers a glimpse of what they have to offer.

This can give travellers an idea of what they will expect when visiting these destinations, and can also help travellers who are undecided on which places to visit in 2022.

With this shift, the new trends are likely to showcase what travel is like in a post-pandemic era and are probably here to stay for the next few years. However, it is imperative to follow all safety precautions while travelling.

22

SPIRITUALITY & DEVOTION

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

Bhakti and the Narada Sutras

By Paddy Krishnan had written earlier about Bhakti Yoga or the path of devotion as a way to attain Moksha (salvation).

While the Bhagavad Gita has many references to the benefits of the path of Bhakti, it is the Narada Bhakti Sutras (supposedly composed by the sage Narada) that makes it very clear that the path of Bhakti is greater than the path of Karma Yoga (dispassionate action), Jnana Yoga (knowledge) or Raja Yoga (meditation). The Sutras also claim that Bhakti is the ultimate goal of spiritual life and equates it with Moksha. In this note, I summarise the key points from the Narada Bhakti Sutras.

The Narada Bhakti Sutras can be divided into various sections. The first section is just the statement that one attains Moksha when one has developed true Bhakti. The definition of Moksha is standard, viz., by becoming one with the Divine, one will escape from Samsara (the cycle of life and death).

But it states that one can become one with the Divine only via Bhakti.

The second section defines the word Bhakti and provides a high level description. It states that the term Bhakti comes from the root Bhaj (भज्), which means ‘to serve’ (God in this case). Narada

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states that there are two types of Bhakti, viz., Apara Bhakti and Para Bhakti. Apara Bhakti is treated as a lower level of devotion that novice spiritual seekers follow. Para Bhakti is the higher level of devotion that advanced seekers follow. Both paths of Bhakti focus on devotion to God and can be expressed via worship or prayer. The definition states that Bhakti is surrender to God. The verse “Sarvada sarva-bhavena niscintair bhagavan eva bhajaniyah” defines Bhakti. It states that at all times one is devoted only to the Divine. In other words, the devotee is fully immersed in the worship of the Divine.

Bhakti might start with the selfish motive, viz., the concern for one’s well-being and happiness. Thus the aim of worshipping is to receive material benefits from the Divine.

After that, one has to see the Divine in everything. So Bhakti does not end after one has performed a pooja or visited a temple. Real Bhakti is reflected in all aspects of life and is present in every action. Because of this, the Narada Bhakti Sutra states that Karma Yoga is not different from Bhakti Yoga. It emphasises that Bhakti is just pure eternal love for the Divine.

After defining Bhakti, the Sutras focus on the benefits of Bhakti.

The main benefit of Para Bhakti is Moksha and thus experience eternal peace which is not affected by the changes in one’s world.

Those who have attained Moksha have no desires and thus escape Samsara. By being one with the Divine, the devotee does not want anything and is not attached to anything in this world. Such a devotee is totally contended and is said to become a Siddha or a perfect person. Contentment is related to renunciation. As usual, renunciation is not suppression of desires. In the context of Bhakti, it is channelling one’s energies (Ojas) into focussing on the Divine. All actions and their fruits are offered to the Supreme and one wishes to be one with the

Supreme. In the context of Bhakti, renunciation also means being dedicated exclusively to the Supreme and not being concerned about any hurdles that may be in the way.

The Narada Bhakti Sutras give various examples of Bhakti. The main example is the devotion of the Gopis towards Krishna. They were fully in love with Krishna not for any selfish gain. They had recognised the divinity in Krishna and their minds, emotions and actions were all for Krishna. This showed they had fully surrendered to Krishna.

The story of Prahalad who meditated on Vishnu for a long period of time is the other example. Prahalad was tortured by his father and his devotion to Vishnu was not rewarded immediately. The aim is to show that one needs patience to receive God’s grace, which will come if one has real Bhakti. All devotees realise that they belong to the Divine and receive special love because of their devotion.

There is a section in the Narada Bhakti Sutras that relates to knowledge. It argues that only devotion can lead to Moksha. That is, Moksha is the natural conclusion of Para Bhakti. This is because the Supreme cannot be known. Knowledge applies only to objects and thus the path of Jnana cannot lead to the Supreme. Jnana can help point one to the path of Bhakti. The Sutras states that path of Bhakti alone is the greatest.

The Sutras then turn to how to develop Bhakti. This section of the Sutras is prescriptive and indicates that one must perform actions such as singing about the glories of the Divine even when doing other tasks.

There are other commandments such as one should consume food in moderation, not engage in political activities, and be humble.

It also stresses the importance of meditation, being truthful and compassionate, and having faith in the scriptures. Initially, one simply has to follow the rules and regulations

and one will get the grace of the Divine. These blessing from the Divine will lead to one controlling one’s feeling of “mine-ness” called Mamakara. Once Mamakara is controlled, renunciation is possible.

This will lead to realising Divine love which is not describable and has no attributes. This is called ‘Anirvachaniyam Premasvarupam’ meaning supreme love which cannot be described and is about one’s own experience.

The Narada Bhakti Sutras states how a pooja can be a simple act of lighting a lamp for one’s favourite deity or performing a elaborate pooja in a temple. One has the freedom to choose the form of the Divine for one’s worship. This is called Ishta devata who is an image or projection of the Divine that suits one’s nature and needs. The aim is to develop a relationship with the Divine via the Ishta devata to help on one’s spiritual journey. One can also chant a mantra any number of times (108 or 1008 are the usual examples). One can also perform an Abhishekam (ritual bathing). Whether one is doing the pooja or observing others doing theirs, one must be awake (i.e., not distracted by other things) and one’s mind must be fully engaged in it. The mindset of the person determines if the Bhakti is Apara Bhakti or Para Bhakti. A person who performs these actions for specific benefits is still at a “lower level” and is demonstrating Apara Bhakti.

A person who is solely focused on Bhakti as a path to Moksha can be said to be demonstrating Para Bhakti.

One must translate one’s actions such as poojas into a commitment to be one with the Divine. This is related to Samadhi in Yoga where one realises that there is no difference between the Divine and one’s true Self. One’s individuality, ego and Mamakara all dissolve away and only the Divine remains. Since one is with the Divine, one attains immortality.

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The Sutras conclude with acknowledgements to various teachers of Bhakti such as the Sanatkumaras, Vyasa, Shuka, Garga etc. Narada concludes the teaching of these great sages reinforces the importance of Bhakti to get Moksha.

In summary, the Narada Bhakti Sutras define Bhakti as when one

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continuously worships the Divine.

Such worship should be with full focus only on the Divine and have no expectation of benefits. One should have no doubt about whether this path will lead to Moksha. One is spiritual when one performs one’s daily duties as if it is total worship of the Divine.

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ART & CULTURE

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

K'taka's Hoysala temples nominated PM Modi unveils 216-feet tall for UNESCO World Heritage sites statue of equality in Hyderabad

India Today

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he elegant Hoysala temples of Belur, Halebid and Somnathapura in Karnataka have been finalised for nomination for the Unesco World Heritage sites for the year 2022-2023, Union Minister for Culture, Tourism and Development of North Eastern Region G. Kishan Reddy said.

He broke the news on Monday night by puting out tweets in Kannada and Hindi, which doubled the celebration of Kannadigas.

He said: "The 'Sacred Ensembles of Hoysala' have been on UNESCO's tentative list since April 15, 2014. Let us sincerely pray that these temples get inscribed as World Heritage in 2023.

"These temples represent one of the highest points of human creative genius and stand testimony to the rich historical and cultural heritage of our country. My hearty congrats to all those involved in this exercise."

India's ambassador and permanent representative to UNESCO Vishal V. Sharma, said: "India is proud to nominate the 'Sacred Ensembles

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of Hoysala' for UNESCO's World Heritage List! Art Historians recognise the exceptional sculptural artistry of the ensembles to be among masterpieces of Asian art."

The Hoysala temples represent human creative genius and stand testimony to the rich historical and cultural heritage of our country.

Vishal V. Sharma formally submitted the nomination dossier to UNESCO's Director of World Heritage, Lazare Eloundou on Monday, After this, the UNESCO will respond by early March, conduct site evaluation in September/October and finally take up the dossier for consideration in July/August next year.

Talking about the Prime Minister's efforts in protecting the rich cultural heritage of India, Kishan Reddy said: "The Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to both Vikas and Virasat. Our efforts in protecting our Virasat is evident from the work the government has been putting in inscribing both our tangible and

intangible heritage and also repatriating the cultural heritage that was stolen or taken away from India."

The three Hoysala temples are protected monuments under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and therefore conservation and maintenance is done by the ASI. The state government will ensure the conservation of state protected monuments which are around these three temples, since it would add to the visual integrity of the place.

It will also build an integrated management plan by incorporating the buffers of all monuments in the District Master Plan and look at the traffic management issues, especially around the designated property.

The Hoysalas temples were built in the 12th-13th century and are represented here by the three components of Belur, Halebid and Somnathpur. They also attest to the creativity and skill of the Hoysala artists and architects who built these one of a kind masterpieces.

These architects used their profound knowledge of temple architecture from across India to their advantage.

These temples have a basic Darvidian morphology but show strong influences of the Bhumija mode widely practiced in central India, the Nagara traditions of northern and western India, and the Karnataka Dravida modes favoured by the Kalyani Chalukyas.

Therefore, the Hoysala architects considered eclectic selections of features from other temple typologies which they further modified and complemented with their own particular innovations. The result was the birth of a completely novel 'Hoysala Temple' form.

NFAI acquires personal collection of renowned Manipuri dancer

New Delhi, Feb 11 (IANS): A collection of home movies of renowned Manipuri dancer, Savita Ben Mehta is now part of the National Film Archive of India (NFAI), an official said on Friday.

The collection is in 8 mm and super 8 mm, a film format that is used to shoot private movies known as 'home movies'.

In a statement, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said

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that NFAI is adding this personal collection of Kodachrome and Kodachrome II home movies of the celebrated artist for preservation, as these footages can be important social documentation.

Kodachrome and Kodachrome II were introduced in 1935 and 1961 respectively, specifically meant for amateur use, with the latter being superior to 'regular Kodachrome'.

"Manipuri classical dance depicts

the amorous relationship between Lord Krishna and Radha, characterised by its use of graceful costumes, expressive and delicate postures. A peerless exponent of the Manipuri style of dancing, Savita Ben Mehta popularized it globally," the ministry said.

She had the highest qualifications and honours in Manipuri dancing.

Interestingly she was born in Gujarat, educated in the Arya Kanya Vidyalaya of Baroda, and also made a remarkable contribution in the field of ballet as the director and choreographer.

"I am happy to receive such a significant collection of 8mm films, which itself is a rare addition to NFAI. It is widely understood that 8 mm and super 8 mm movies were prevalent in the 1960s and 1970s.

This collection might have footage of her dance performances along with footage shot in North-East India. We would be digitizing these soon. I am thankful to the family of industrialist Jay Mehta, who is the nephew of Savita Ben Mehta," Prakash Magdum, director NFAI, said.

Mehta was proficient in many languages and the footage has her handwriting in the Meitei (of Manipur) language. This donation was facilitated by noted art curators Deepthi Sasidharan director Eka Archiving Services and Rachel Noronha.

rime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday unveiled a 216-feet tall statue of equality commemorating the 11th-century Saint Ramanujacharya.

At an elaborate ceremony held at Tridandi Chinna Jeer Swamy's ashram at Muchintal on the outskirts of Hyderabad, he dedicated to the world the giant statue which commemorates Ramanujacharya's teachings promoting equality in all aspects of living including faith, caste and creed.

Modi visited the 45-acre temple complex housing the statue and the identical recreations of 108 Divya Desams or ornately carved temples. Earlier, he also participated in puja and other rituals as part of the ongoing 12-day Sri Ramanuja Sahasrabdi 'Samaroham', the 1000th birth anniversary celebrations of Ramanjuacharya The statue is made of 'panchaloha', a combination of five metals: gold, silver, copper, brass, and zync and is among one of the tallest metallic statues in sitting position, in the world.

The statue is mounted on a 54-feet high base building, named 'Bhadra Vedi', has floors devoted for a Vedic digital library and research centre, ancient Indian texts, a theatre, an educational gallery detailing many works of Ramanujacharya.

In the presence of Chinna Jeeyar Swami who presided over the event, the Prime Minister watched a 3D

presentation on the life journey and teaching of Ramanujacharya.

The Prime Minister, in his speech, underlined the importance of the teachings of Ramanujacharya.

He emphasised that development and social justice should reach all sections of society without any differences and those who were victimised for generations should be made partners in development.

He said the transforming India was making all out efforts in this direction.

Modi said the statue of equality will inspire the future generations and strengthen Indian philosophy.

He said the freedom struggle is not only a fight for demonstration of strength but also an expression of live and let live, an ancient Indian philosophy.

Recalling that Dr BR Ambedkar also supported the views of Ramanujacharyulu on equality,

Modi said his government's vision is for Sab Ka Saath, Sab ka Vikas, Sab ka Viswas and Sab ka Prayas.

Modi noted that Hyderabad with which Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel had an inseparable link has now become a place of statue of equality while his home state Gujarat is home for the statue of unity.

The Prime Minister revealed that he prayed for the welfare of people of India while taking part in the purnahuti of Vishwaksena Ishti.

Chinna Jeeyar Swami said Ramanujacharya remained a true icon of equality for 1,000 years and hoped that this project would ensure that his teachings are practiced for at least another 1000 years. "Our mission is to make the statue of equality a culturally paramount destination for people across the globe and inspire everyone to make the world a more equal place to live," he said.

prosper and penetrate deep into the masses, you need the rest of the world to help you out. The Indian Music Academy didn't have any gate open for any CSR funds. With Pandit Jasraj Cultural Foundation, ATG exemption has already been received.

"We have people like NK Singh, Chairman, 15th Finance Commission, and President, Institute of Economic Growth; Mukul Mudgal, Former Chief Justice of Punjab & Haryana High Court; and bureaucrats like Jayesh Ranjan and Anjani Kumar onboard," she says.

Durga feels that while there may be several festivals for the young, what is missing in the ecosystem is the presence of good curators -- people actually qualified to design a festival.

"It is a completely different skill-set.

And I think our company has contributed immensely. When we were on Doordarshan channels with 'Jalsa', it was not just about classical music, but Indian traditional music and folk music. You have to take the onus of sticking your neck out -- hear the person for two minutes," she adds.

Lamenting that unlike abroad, heritage and culture are never a priority for major corporates in India when it comes to philanthropy or CSR budgets, she says, "As per the data of last many years, the spend on this area is negligible. Major corporates need to understand their social responsibility and contribute towards arts in the form of scholarships and funding institutions etc. Sponsoring or supporting programmes which are related to training and education can have immense impact."

Durga Jasraj wants people to listen to music in totality

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hile listening to music, how many of us think about what actually goes into making a career in music?

What are the struggles, what is the kind of infrastructure does this field need? What needs to be done for instrument makers, and how can the music makers who enable the magic to reach us flourish?

These are questions posed by musician and actor Durga Jasraj, who recently launched the Pandit Jasraj Cultural Foundation along with Neeraj Jaitley in memory of her late father.

Stressing that the core values of the foundation are the ones she imbibed from her late father Jasraj, Durga, who has been running her company 'Arts & Artist India Private Limited' for the past 25 years, says the foundation will help remember not just the late maestro's contribution to music, but for what he did to the sector in totality.

"He was probably the only person of his generation who promoted the next generation in a manner that they didn't need to be his disciples or belong to his gharana. Musicians across genres were encouraged by him in every way," she says.

For someone who also co-founded the Indian Music Academy decades back, she says that at that time she felt that a body for the musicians, of the musicians, and by the musicians would help the music industry.

"But it was a very romantic idea that musicians will help each other. For everybody to flourish and

'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' same principle that Mahadji Shinde followed: Scindia New Delhi, Feb 12 (IANS): Remembering his ancestor 'the Grand Maratha Mahadji Shinde' on the 251st anniversary of his reconquer of Delhi, Minister for Civil Aviation Jyotiraditya Scindia on Friday said the 'Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat' that Prime Minister talks of today was the same principle that Mahadji had followed.

"Mahadji can be termed as the pioneer of coalition government as he brought together the Gujar, Jat, Dalit, Sikh and Muslims all under the banner of Hindavi Swaraj and the name of the army was 'Hind Ki Fauz'," Scindia said.

Mahadji had a special 'Decxan Invincibles' brigade that had advisors from France and Portugal, the Union Minister said while recounting how Mahadji "favoured modernisation of arms and artillery"

/IndianAbroadNews

as he was determined to face the Britishers who could not be fought just with 'talwar and dhaal' (swords and shields).

"He even started an industrial unit on the outskirts of Agra where he started a tank manufacturing unit. Army modernisation, Aatma Nirbhar Bharat, all that we talk of today, Mahadji Shinde had laid the foundation in 1771," Scindia said at a programme organised to mark the 251st anniversary of the Mahadji Shinde's take over of the then Mughal ruled Delhi.

The programme was jointly organised by 'Dilli Marathi Pratishthan', a socio-cultural organisation, with 'Rambhau Mhalgi Pratishthan', an organisation based in Thane, working for improving civic governance.

Held at Maharashtra Sadan in the national capital, the programme was

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watched live by over 10,000 people on multiple social media platforms managed by Vayam.

Recalling how Mahadji had been single handedly responsible for expansion of the Hindavi Swaraj 'Attock Se Cuttack Tak' (from Attock in present day Pakistan to Cuttack in Odisha), Scindia said, "I am not just emotional as I come from the family of this great personality but feel pride that he has shaped a glorious chapter in the history of India."

Rajya Sabha member Vinay Sahastrabuddhe, who also heads the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) said, "Gen Lake (who led the British forces in 1803 Battle of Patparganj) had mentioned in his diary that Britishers had taken over India from the Marathas and not from any Mughal rulers."

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LITERATURE

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

A logical, actionable blueprint 'Battling Inspiration': Top WWII for India getting its act right films and the books behind them IANS

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hat is Indias future? I deeply believe in Indias promise, in our potential for great achievement. I am also old enough to appreciate our ability to snatch failure from the jaws of success," writes an optimistic Naushad Forbes in "The Struggle and The Promise: Restoring Indias Potential" (HarperCollins) as he presents a blueprint for the way ahead.

The Promise is our diverse culture that has something for everyone.

Our young population is thirsty for education and achievement. And a strong private sector is our engine of growth. We can lead the world in the future.

The Struggle is to create a business-friendly environment, even as education, public health and quality

of jobs demand attention.

How can the government, citizens and firms turn our struggle into promise and enable India to lead?

How can we fix things by learning from best practices elsewhere? How can we ensure openness, inclusivity and innovation? How can independent institutions make up for low state capacity? How can our culture deliver leadership?

Forbes answers these and other critical questions concerning India's progress. He provides a logical, actionable blueprint for getting the balance right between industry, institutions and policy. Backed by rigorous research and copious data, here's a book that shows how to fulfil India's potential.

"I hope you will find some of these answers to be convincing. But I hope, even more, that this will

prompt wide discussion as you seek your own answers to these vital questions. We can then jointly craft India's future," says Forbes.

"A thought-provoking book that gives meaning and context to India's promise and potential for great achievement," says former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

"Naushad Forbes is not only a successful business leader but an exceptional intellectual...He is objective in his analysis of where we lag when he talks about our nation's struggles and then takes a focused, incisive approach to highlight the immense promise of India. The result is a book with thought-provoking, practical ideas to restore India's true potential,' says Sachin Sharma, Executive Editor, HarperCollins India.

Born in 1960, Naushad Forbes is Co-Chairman of Forbes Marshall, India's leading process and energy efficiency company, and was the president of the Confederation of Indian Industry (Cll) in 2016-17.

He received his Bachelors, Masters and PhD Degrees from Stanford University and was recently given an honorary doctorate by the University of Edinburgh. Forbes was an occasional Lecturer and Consulting Professor at Stanford University from 1987 to 2004, where he developed courses on Technology in Newly Industrialising Countries.

He is currently Chairman of the Ananta Aspen Centre and the Centre for Technology Innovation and Economic Research.

Diverse and global voices dominate longlist for 20,000 pounds Dylan Thomas Prize

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rom Sri Lanka to Trinidad, Texas, and Ireland via the Middle East, this years international longlist for one of the worlds largest literary awards for young writers-- the 20,000 pounds Swansea University Dylan Thomas Prize -- features a powerful collection of writers who are offering platforms for under-represented voices.

Chaired by co-founder and co-director of the Jaipur Literature Festival and award-winning author Namita Gokhale, the longlisted titles will now be whittled down to a six-strong shortlist be announced on March 31 followed by the Winner's Ceremony held in Swansea on May 12, two days before International Dylan Thomas Day. This year's longlist celebrates female voices from around the

world and includes: the gritty debut novel by interdisciplinary London artist Tice Cin titled "Keeping the House", American novelist Patricia Lockwood's meditation on love, language and human connection in "No One is Talking About This", Dantiel W. Moniz's debut collection of short intergenerational stories in "Milk Blood Heat" that contemplate human connection, race, womanhood, inheritance, and the elemental darkness in us all, British writer Fiona Mozley's urban comedy "Hot Stew", the honest and darkly funny debut novel "Acts of Desperation" by emerging star of Irish literature Megan Nolan, and British-born Prague-based Helen Oyeyemi's exploration of what it means to be seen by another person in "Peaces".

There are also two female poets in the running including Desiree Bailey

for her lyrical quest for belonging and freedom in "What Noise Against the Cane" as she draws on her cultural identity and upbringing in Trinidad and Tobago, as well as Indian-born Nidhi Zak/Aria Eipe, whose first poetry collection "Auguries of a Minor God" follows two different journeys, the first of love and the wounds it makes and the second following a family of refugees who have fled to the West from conflict in an unspecified Middle Eastern country.

The debut novelist line-up is further completed by the contemporary classic "The Sweetness of Water" by Nathan Harris, who fuses together historical fiction and the complex reality of society today, and the achingly beautiful love story "Open Water" (now sold in 13 territories worldwide) by 25-year-old BritishGhanaian writer Caleb Azumah Nelson, who shines a light on race and masculinity.

Additionally, among the 12 authors on the longlist are Sri Lankan writer Anuk Arudpragasam for his masterful novel "A Passage North" that explores age and youth, loss and survival in the wake of the devastation of Sri Lanka's 30-year civil war and Brandon Taylor's "Filthy Animals" that brings together quietly devastating stories of young people caught up in violence and desire, while longing for intimacy.

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attling Inspiration': Top WWII films and the books behind them (IANS Column: Bookends) Vikas Datta VIKAS DATTA February 05, 2022 08:34 PM (Updated 20:34 IST) The 'egg or chicken' conundrum is not required to establish whether books or films came first, but it is indisputable that a whole host of blockbuster movies -- from the James Bond to the Harry Potter series, from "Dracula" to "Gone With the Wind", and from "Ben-Hur" to "Jurassic Park" -- owe their origin to books. War movies are no different.

A constant occurrence in human affairs from the earliest time, wars, given their effect on a society's present and the future, the sacrifices they demand, and the moral issues they raise, figure in all forms of literary works. With the advent of cinema, their cultural depiction got a new -- and much wider -- display.

Since the First World War, war films of all shades, from jingoistic to pacifist, have been a staple of global cinema, being made right even as the conflict they depict rages on, down till the present day. Cinema traditions across the Americas, Europe and Asia have their masterpieces, but it is Hollywood, whose sheer scope and influence makes it predominant, that is most known for its repertoire.

While it has filmed a wide swathe of wars down the ages and around the world, from the Trojan War to the War against Terror, as well as some lesser-known conflicts (the 15th Moorish-Christian battles in Spain known as 'El Cid'), the pride of place belongs to those set in the Second World War. But, be they broad-spectrum retellings of major battles like the D-Day ("The Longest Day", 1962), or the Battle of Arnhem ("A Bridge Too Far", 1977), or episodes of PoW breakouts such as "The Great Escape" (1963), focused experiences of smaller formations ("Cross of Iron", 1977, or "Squadron 633", 1964), or even varying degrees of fiction ("The Bridge on the River Kwai", 1957, "The Dirty Dozen", 1967, "Where Eagles Dare", 1968, and "The Eagle Has Landed", 1976), all are based on books. Also, most made the transition from the page to the big screen in a considerably short span of time.

Irish-American journalist Cornelius Ryan's eponymous military histories, which draw on the experiences of as many survivors as available from all sides, came out in 1959 and

A holistic political history of UP as assembly elections set to begin W ith a population that would rank it the fifth in the world if it were a country, Uttar Pradesh has undoubtedly been India's most politically important state since Independence. It sends the highest number of members to Parliament and has the biggest legislature in the country. It also has to its credit most of India's Prime Ministers.

And yet, despite being home to the dynasties and bastions of some of the biggest names in Indian politics, it has lagged behind several states.

With its clear and decisive imprint on national politics, UP also reflects some of its worst ills: from casteism and using religion as a political plank to manoeuvring for power and criminalization in politics.

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"From Lucknow to Lutyens" (HarperCollins) relates the fascinating story of Uttar Pradesh in post-Independence India and the intertwined fortunes of the two, as the state votes in the seven-phased elections from February 10 to March 7 to the 403-member assembly that will decide whether Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will break the jinx of no incumbent party returning to power in more than 30 years.

"Born in Banaras and bought up in Lucknow, naturally this book has my emotions and closeness to my heart regarding Uttar Pradesh. The concerns that I talk about in this book have been there with me for a very long time," says the author, Abhigyan Prakash.

"Having reported on and analyzed

both UP and national politics for over two decades, it has always puzzled me, despite its enormous political presence and clout sending to Delhi the maximum numbers of Prime Ministers. It lacked growth it should have, far from realizing its full potential. This book is my attempt to dive into those pertinent questions and understand the many facets of the answer," the author adds.

"As UP heads to the polls in less than two weeks, it is a good time to understand the wider context in which the politics of the state plays out. In a sense, the current events in the state link back to patterns and trends that have prevailed for decades: the rise and decline of parties, the growth of caste as a

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1974 -- three years before the films based on them; American author E.M. Nathanson's "The Dirty Dozen" came out two years before the film; and Scottish novelist Alistair Maclean's "Where Eagles Dare" and Jack Higgins' "The Eagle Has Landed" just a year before.

There was, however, a lag for "Cross of Iron" based on German author Willi Heinrich's "The Willing Flesh" (German 1955, English 1956), "Squadron 633" on former RAF officer Frederick E. Smith's 1956 book of the same name, and most for Australian fighter pilot-turned-author Paul Brickhill, whose work on the PoW escape -- of which he had first-hand experience -- came out in 1950.

Brickhill, however, is unique in having two other works become successful films -- "The Dam Busters", based on an RAF bombing raid on German industry (book, 1951; film, 1955) and "Reach for the Sky" (book, 1953; film, 1956), on the disabled British fighter ace Douglas Bader.

But there are major differences between the printed and the reel versions. Some are due to the limitations of the form, say, the need for a condensed narrative, or the inability to delve into the background or to represent the thought processes of a character on screen, but most are instances of artistic licence, driven by the need to create a compelling or dramatic scene even if it is made up.

In "The Longest Day", the scene showing a group of French nuns, led by the Mother Superior no less, hurrying into a war zone to minister to their injured compatriots makes for splendid viewing, but never happened in real life. Then, at the end of "A Bridge Too Far", the actor playing the role of a British General, who masterminded the campaign, is shown speaking the phrase from which the book and the film's title is drawn -- he did say that but at a different point, in another context.

Then, the motorcycle chase towards the end of "The Great Escape" makes for thrilling viewing, but never happened in real life.

Political and commercial reasons may also play a role in changes.

"The Great Escape" was heavily fictionalised, with all its protagonists being composites of the real-life inmates and their roles jazzed up for the stars playing them. American officers, moreover, were given prominence, despite the fact that the PoWs who broke out were British and other Allied personnel.

The Americans were involved in planning and preparations for the

escape, but their entire contingent had been moved to a different camp more than half a year before the escape.

On the other hand, some of these books do not make it easygoing for the filmmaker.

"The Dirty Dozen", the film that is, shows the selection and training of the personnel for about twothirds of the running time and the operation in about the final third.

Guess, how much the book, over 500 pages in most editions, devotes to the denouement? Just the last two dozen-odd pages, with most of this being a report for the general concerned, and spending the rest as a character study. You won't even recognise most of the film's 'Dirty Dozen'.

There are more examples of divergences, but let's now look at another half-a-dozen war books and their film adaptations, which are lesser-known, but deserve both reading and viewing.

Less known than his contemporary Nicholas Monserrat of "The Cruel Sea" (1951; film, 1953), British naval officer-turned-writer Denys Rayner's "The Enemy Below (1956; film, 1957) is a fictional but authentic tale of a cat-and-mouse game between an Allied destroyer and a German U-boat somewhere in the South Atlantic Ocean, spread over five days and ending with both in the same boat (figuratively and literally).

On land, much drier land, is British novelist Christopher Landon's "Ice Cold in Alex" (1957; film, 1958), about two British soldiers and two nurses, pulling back after an advance by Field Marshal Rommel's Afrika Corps, getting separated from their convoy, and forced to make the arduous drive across the desert to safety.

While Joseph Heller's "Catch-22" (1961; film, 1970) is the defining satirical novel of World War II, American novelist William Bradford Huie's "The Americanisation of Emily" (1959; film, 1964) is a no less barbed look at how some officers will go to any extent to achieve glory, even as some seek to avoid it at any cost.

German novelist Hans Helmut Kirst's "The Night of the Generals" (1962; film, 1967) is the incongruous tale of a dogged German military policeman seeking to catch a serial murderer of prostitutes, believed to be one of the three generals in the vicinity, even as indiscriminate massacres go on all around.

Start with these and note the differences.

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0488-067 243 decisive factor, leaders switching sides on the eve of elections, religion as a political plank, and so on," says Siddhesh Inamdar, Executive Editor, HarperCollins India.

"Abhigyan Prakash, with his extensive experience of analysing all matters UP, puts the state in that broader perspective for lay readers as well as political observers alike.

This is a book we are delighted to be publishing and hope it will make a valuable contribution to the debate on the road ahead for UP for a long

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time to come," Inamdar adds.

Abhigyan Prakash is an award-winning senior journalist and columnist and has been an iconic frontline face pioneering news television in India. In a career spanning over two decades, he has hosted many flagship shows for NDTV as one of its key editors and has reported on and analysed UP and national politics.

Currently, he is Senior Consultant, ABP News, and its national affairs expert.

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BEAUTY

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

D'you suffer from O damaged skin barrier?

Haven’t tried hair extensions yet?

IANS

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hile "skin barrier" gets slapped on products and thrown around a lot on social media, unless formulated correctly ceramides don’t aid much in barrier repair. It can in fact, delay barrier repair if formulated incorrectly.

The founder of the d'you, Shamika Haldipur shares her insights on ‘barrier protection’.

How do you stand out from similar product competitors?

Shamik: While there are a plethora of ceramide products in the market, not all products have been developed to mimic our skin’s natural lipid ratio - the Golden Ratio of 3:1:1. In most products, ceramides have been either used in isolation or combined with cholesterol and fatty acids in the wrong ratio which actually impedes (delays) rather than accelerates the barrier recovery.

Most products have an extremely low concentration of ceramides which provide very few functional benefits to the skin. The research done on ceramides indicates that 0.8 to 2 percent is effective to promote the recovery of the barrier. However, the ceramide complex that is commonly used in the industry yields a mere 0.015-0.05 percent or at best 0.1 percent ceramide content which is approximately 10-20X lesser than what in my defence contains.

Many ceramide products are unable to use ceramides inadequate concentration because ceramides are: (i) a very expensive ingredient, and (ii) a very thick, waxy and unstable molecule to work with. So, brands prefer to use them in lower doses to control the feel, texture, and stability of the end product. We overcame

this issue in in my defence by using a patented dispersion technology that allows us to use pure ceramides in a highly stabilised form and at a high dosage while still making a very lightweight formula with a pleasant texture.

We made in my defence by using ceramides in a high dosage of 1 percent pure concentration and in the optimal ratio of 3:1:1 to ensure lipid penetration into the stratum corneum (top layer of the skin barrier) such that it actually repairs your skin barrier over time and gives it resilience and strength to defend itself on its own. With continued usage, your skin’s barrier is fortified to reduce its own water loss, and retain more moisture on its own.

What is the meaning behind the collection ‘In My Defence”?

Shamik: With in my defence, we want to indicate that in the long term this product is going to enable your own skin to defend itself and that this product and your skin is going to stand “in your defence” against all external stimuli.

Why D’you?

Shamik: d’you is phonetically derived from the word “dew”. We wanted to indicate healthy and dewy skin. But at the core of the brand ethos is the customer i.e. YOU. So, we decided to play on the spelling of the word to write it as d’you instead of dew. The apostrophe in the word and our logo indicates a dewdrop.

What process do you use to determine which products best fit the needs of a customer?

Shamik: With the skincare and beauty market saturated with so many products at the moment, we as a brand try to look beyond what’s already available to the customer

and see what customer needs are still not being met by these available products and then develop products that could add some value which they aren’t already getting.

In essence, we look for gaps in the market and find pain points that the consumer is facing and then make innovative products that provide solutions and address these pain points.

How would you advise a difficult client on a more suitable product than the one she or he has chosen?

Shamik: When a client asks us for consultation on product recommendations, we speak to them honestly by first explaining to them how their skin functions and how products work on the skin. We break it down to them in simple terms so they understand how their skincare ingredients are actually working for them.

Basis their concern we advise them if a product we are recommending to them will be more beneficial than what they are already using.

Sometimes we also tell them that the product we offer may not work for them basis what concern they are looking to address. When clients see the honesty and transparency with which we approach them and advise they mostly tend to believe us. We also have a strong no-hard sell policy. So we never hard sell our products or any recommendations onto our customers. And customers can see this and therefore genuinely believe whatever advice we offer.

What would you suggest to a client suffering from a damaged skin barrier?

Shamik: My advice to anyone suffering from a damaged skin barrier will be to go back to the basics. Our skin is very well capable of repairing itself if we give it the chance to do so. So, one needs to cut down on all activities and just stick to a good barrier boosting product like in my defence as a standalone product until your barrier has fully healed.

Some other basic things you should take care of when you have a damaged barrier is: Avoid using extreme temperatures on the skin (water or air) Avoid over-cleansing your skin and switch to very gentle and mild cleansers Don’t use any physically abrasive materials on the skin – whether towels, napkins or scrubs.

Avoid any DIY concoctions on the skin

ffering an emergency fix in uncertain situations hair extensions require low maintenance and are very easy to use.

Have you been thinking about trying hair extensions but are not sure if it's worth trying? The elegance of long and shiny hair is not easy to describe in words. Hair extensions come in a variety of types, colours and lengths so that you can match your perfect style. However, the availability of ample options can make it harder for you to make a decision about what you need.

Amuse Your Look With Different Colours: Everyone enjoys colouring their hair but it affects healthy hairs and may even damage the scalp.

Hair colours mark lasting damage to the hairs which take place gradually even if the product used in colouring is of the best quality. In this scenario, hair extensions can come to the rescue. Hair extensions can be the right tool to save your hair from such repercussions. The market is filled with highlights and lowlights ombre extensions which are already coloured but you can also add colour to the extensions to make your look different.

Add Length and Volume: For some people, hair growth is not easy and can be frustrating. If you desire long hair but your own hair stops growing after a definite length, then you can switch to hair extensions.

They will provide effective results instantly. Adding extensions to your logs will increase the layers and

D

ark circles’ have been an issue of great concern for women of all ages, but especially those who are in their middle age because they make you look older. If not treated properly, these dark circles can prove to be an age-long problem for many.

But what causes them? In an interaction with Harry Sehrawat, CoFounder, Sanfe, we find out the most common reasons for this. Sehrawat states that the skin under the eyes is thinnest which makes it vulnerable to easy darkening over time. Causes include hyperpigmentation, poor blood circulation, loss of vitamin C. Hyperpigmentation and puffiness are hard to eradicate but there are ways to minimize their appearance, as well as unpack those under-eye bags.

He suggests a few tips to tackle the problem: Applying brightening skin creams www.indianabroad.news

Given that the skin under the eyes is thinnest, it requires tender treatment. Creams that are rich in Vitamin C, retinoids, and hyaluronic acid are proven to be beneficial in reducing dark patches under the eye.

Under Eye Lightening and Glo Cream An Under Eye Cream helps in reducing fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness while its hydrating ingredients help soothe puffiness.

Hydrating molecules draw moisture into the skin for long-lasting hydration. Additionally, this safe and effective formula offers a visible difference in 3-6 weeks.

Before choosing the creams, always consult the dermatologist as some products can behave differently with different skin types.

A cold compress A cold compress goes a long way in reducing puffiness and helps shrink

Ideal for Special Occasions: You can easily go for creative and unique styles by using hair extensions, which can be ideal for special occasions. You can use them for weddings, proms, parties, vacations, etc. You go shopping for new apparel and get your make-up done before attending any special occasion.

Therefore, it’s logical to upgrade your hairstyle to the next level as well. Installing some hair extensions will definitely make you stand out from the crowd. The versatility of hair extensions makes them excellent in a range of scenarios.

SUGAR Cosmetics on picking up majority stake in ENN Beauty

Under-eye care for the A middle-aged women dilated blood vessels. A cold jade roller or ice cubes wrapped inside a muslin cloth can be used for approximately 20 minutes. Dampening a washcloth with cold water also helps when put under the eyes for 20 minutes. This process should be repeated if the cloth becomes warm or if the ice melts.

Soaked Tea Bags Applying cold tea bags under the eyes is another great way to combat dark circles. Tea contains caffeine, and antioxidants that stimulate blood circulation to leave a soothing effect beneath your skin.

Soak two black or green tea bags in hot water for five minutes. Then keep it in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes. Once the tea bags are cold enough, apply them to your closed eyes for 10 to 20 minutes.

Afterwards, rinse your eyes with cool water and keep them closed for another 10 min for a long-lasting effect.

Add some extra hours to your sleep The easiest yet best remedy to reduce dark circles is sleep. A sleep-deprived eye will always look tired no matter how much concealer is used.

Treatments can be used to treat dark circles but healthy habits go a long way. Eating healthy, staying hydrated, and getting the right amount of sleep is important for your eyes.

provide volume to your hair. It will make your hair appear a lot thicker.

The girth of your hair will give you a prettier look. Hair extension is extremely beneficial to people with hair growth issues. As they struggle for long hair and are fed up with trying remedies, installing hair extensions will sort out their problem in a blink of an eye.

Create Special Styles: High-quality hair extensions are versatile. They not only create a long-hair look but are also perfect for different hairstyles. Hairstyle is not always about length. Hairstyling is a way to spice up your look. They can also be used to create other different styles that might not be possible with your natural hair. By using hair extensions, you can opt for any hairstyle that makes your appearance more charming. Few additional strips of hair will let you play around with numerous looks. Just style it the way you want and flaunt your look.

Emergency Fixer: We all have been there; you pay for a haircut but the outcome is not as expected.

Unfortunately, If you see a hairdresser who is not able to meet your expectations, it’s possible that they chop off your hair more than you wanted. It can lead you to a lot of stress and anxiety. Fortunately, hair extensions offer an emergency fix in such situations. You can use Remy hair extensions that will quickly fix the issue. They let you create a different hairstyle like Up-do, low bun, high bun, ponytail or French braid by covering major portions of your bad haircut.

fter having a year of many firsts, SUGAR Cosmetics parent company, Vellvette Lifestyle Pvt. Ltd. picks up majority stake in India’s natural skin & haircare brand- ENN Beauty.

Over the past three years, ENN Beauty, founded by Nandeeta Manchanda has redefined the ingredient-led skin & haircare category by popularizing natural and simple beauty hacks in innovative textures and pigments. Proud to be handmade in India, their array of natural products not only focus on providing personal rejuvenation but visibly effective results. ENN Beauty’s founder, Nandeeta Manchanda will work closely with Vineeta Singh and Kaushik Mukherjee, co-founders of Vellvette Lifestyle Pvt. Ltd. to accelerate the brand’s online presence and enter the retail industry.

Picking up a majority stake in ENN Beauty signifies two things- you believe that natural skincare will be big in the years to come and you’re consolidating to become a major player in the industry?

Singh: Aside from the onset of a pandemic, the Indian beauty industry has been rapidly expanding.

According to the RedSeer report, the beauty and personal care industry was valued at $16 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a 12 percent annual rate to $28 billion by 2025. We will enter the skincare category with ENN Beauty, and we expect it to grow exponentially over the next 12-24 months. Over the next 12-18 months, the company expects to generate Rs.100 crore in annualised revenue.

SUGAR aims to be “fast fashion for the face”, however the world is

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turning to sustainability and slow fashion, do you think you’re taking the right direction?

Singh: SUGAR focuses on bringing international makeup trends to India, as Millennials and Gen-Z all follow International Influencers on YouTube and aspire to purchase those makeup products. We are constantly listening to our customers and working to meet their needs and desires; this is how we launch a majority of our products.

Yes, we are on the right track because our target audience is GenZ’z and Millennials, prefer products that are paraben-free, cruelty-free, sustainable, and inclusive – and we do care about all of these. In terms of sustainability, we also introduced BB Cream Refills to reduce packaging waste. And inclusivity - we have 22 foundation shades to suit every Indian skintone and undertone.

As we go into yet another phase of the pandemic, virtual meets and zoom calls are back in vogue, dressing waist up means the face needs to be tended to the most?

Singh: The pandemic not only altered market dynamics, but it also influenced consumer behaviour in favour of the beauty and makeup industries. Dressing waist up not only saves you from putting together full looks, but it also becomes the simplest mood-boosting fix. Putting on some lip and cheek tint with a little mascara will not only get you ready for the camera, but it will also lift your mood.

Do you believe that India is still at its nascent stage when it comes to sustainability, and now is the time for brands like yours to capitalize on the growing demand focusing to

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capitalize on the market?

Singh: The pandemic did not initiate the sustainability revolution, but it has accelerated it. This conversation is still in its infancy in India, not least because the dominant discourse on sustainability focuses on the justifiably greater responsibility of developed countries in this regard.

It’s no longer just about finding the best deal, as younger generations, such as Gen-Z and Millennials, are more likely to base their purchasing decisions on personal, social, and environmental values and principles. They are not only shifting toward more environmentally friendly products, but they are also willing to pay a premium for them.

Beauty subscriptions haven’t quite taken off in India as they have in the West, why do you think that is?

Singh: Our first startup, Fabbag, was a monthly makeup and beauty subscription for women that was in rough shape. Despite three years of operation, the venture had not grown. The company became enslaved by the allure of recurring revenue. India was not ready for a subscription-based beauty model.

The United States has become a subscription nation, with 31 percent of millennials using subscription services and 38 percent planning to subscribe in the next six months; however, India is still in its infancy.

How do you intend on making SUGAR Cosmetics the go to brand for all things makeup?

Singh: Our products simply provide more value for the price we charge - it will be difficult to find products that are more pigmented, longer-lasting, and better suited to Indian skin tones. SUGAR has always been an anti-establishment, creator-led voice in a crowded market where brands spend more time talking about discounts than the power of beauty and cosmetics.

We are and will remain millennial-focused, committed to providing more value and higher quality than any competitor in our price range.

Lastly, your projections for the brand in 2022?

Singh: We will strengthen our core pillars – distribution, product, content, and community – even more. With a company turnover of more than 500 crores, we aim to be in 100,000 stores by 2022 and to make SUGAR one of India’s Top 3 brands in the overall colour cosmetics category. We currently employ over 2000 women, with the goal of increasing that number to 3000 so that the brand is truly built by women for women!

26

FASHION

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

On top of their style game I f you've been binge-watching your favourite episodes on OTT, you'll attest to the high quality of content available. There's a lot to look forward to, from sharp scripts to amazing performances.

In the midst of it all, there are a few local OTT celebs that are giving us big style goals. The top five on our best-dressed list are: Shefali Shah Shah has a wealth of creativity and has produced some wonderful work throughout the years. She never goes undetected, whether it’s on television, in films, or in online series. In terms of fashion, the 49-year-old has a unique track record. She prefers to wear saris, sophisticated co-ord ensembles, and comfortable kaftans.

Rasika Dugal What is her personal style? Elegant and simple. Dugal wears a lot of flowy gowns, informal Indian attire, and comfortable separates. You can’t help but notice something effortless about her and her style.

The Mirzapur actress isn’t afraid to experiment with new make-up trends, from classic kohl eyes to edgy winged eyeliner.

Sobhita Dhulipala Dhulipala is OTT’s ideal fashion diva, and she can pull off anything.

The actress, who appears frequently in fashion magazines, has a

particular style that includes unusual silhouettes and bold accessories.

Beautiful saris have been a part of some of her most iconic outfits, including the monochromatic Sabyasachi she wore to a Dubai event.

Kirti Kulhari The prominent star’s style is defined as whimsical and eccentric. Kulhari, like her character in ‘Four More Shots Please,’ prefers to dress in vivid, statement-making outfits.

She also enjoys experimenting with her hair and make-up, and she

frequently appears on best-dressed lists. The actress is just as proud of her pantsuits as she is of her kurtas.

Shweta Tripathi Sharma Sharma’s style graph swings between playful and ferocious. Her Instagram account, ‘battatawada,’ is full of images about her web series, travel, and some seriously stylish ensembles. Her enthusiasm for patterns, classic pieces, and charming dresses is evident just a brief glance at her profile. Sharma’s latest over-the-top film, ‘Yeh Kaali Kaali Aankhein,’ is a must-see.

MEHENDI Trends 2022

Mouni Roy's mehendi look a notch higher T

IANS

#Mehendi

he Mehendi ceremony marks the official start of your wedding festivities, and as a bride you must make every effort to ring in your celebrations in style.

Mouni Roy draws our attention to her avant-garde attire. Whatever is the occasion, the girl always gets it right! Even during the Mehendi ceremony, the blushing bride looked stunning with minimal makeup and open hair.

Mouni stepped out in a yellow lehenga with a backless choli and blouse that featured seashell details and ogle-worthy cascading tassels.

Her stunning jewellery set ceremonies had a modern feel to them.

The actress made a super-stylish choice, selecting the ensemble from designer Payal Singhal’s exquisite collection.

The vibrant outfit perfectly complemented the celebratory mood. Of course, it wasn’t just any old lehenga. In fact, it came with a number of eye-catching features. While the lehenga skirt was minimally embellished with mukaish details, the blouse was the true focal point of her ensemble.

Keeping her make-up minimal and jewellery elegant, she grabbed many eyeballs.

Karishma Tanna and her beau Varun Bangera at their Mehendi ceremony

“If I can’t wear it, I won’t make it”

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ou can spot his designs from afar, not because they scream for attention, but because they have a distinct personality, just like the designer himself. Winner of the International Woolmark Prize for menswear 2016, Dhir has created a brand backed by an incredible story.

"My brand is a reflection of myself. It comes from where I come from, the roots of India. I’ve grown up listening to tales of different crafts and cultures from my grandmother, and they’re a big part of who I am," adds Dhir. We spoke to the designer about his minimal aesthetic, sustainability, and future plans. Read on.

Design and inspiration Dhir is known for revamping Indian textiles. His clothes speak volumes about his refined aesthetic. He launched his label in 2011 and, for the first eight years, only did menswear. "Initially, it was a lot of cotton, linen, and silk, followed by ikat, brocade, and other materials. I like to design and make things that I can wear. If I can’t wear it, I won’t make it." What inspires him? He says, "My own life, and everything around me. I have a set of close friends who are non-fashion. There’s so much to gather from their lives and experiences. "I'm a curious person who enjoys observing and learning from the people around me and the places I visit."

First outing It was at Good Earth that Dhir

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showcased his first collection. The Delhi-based retail space that houses some of the most exquisite apparel and décor was founded by Anita Lal more than two decades ago. "She is my mentor, and she encouraged me to do more and better. She was the first person who I showed my collection to, and it was love at first sight. When we met for the first time, we felt like we came from the same place. Our aesthetic might be slightly different, but there’s so much synergy-there’s a very natural sync." He continues to add, "She is someone who you can learn a lot from. She is humble and honest, and she’s been there throughout my career. " Sustainable fashion "I’d like to think of myself as the ‘OG’ sustainable brand, but I insisted on removing the term from all my communications a few years back. It was getting too dogmatic."

For Dhir, sustainability has an alternate meaning. He believes in "buy less, buy good," a life lesson his grandmother passed onto him.

In the past few years, the Indian fashion industry has been slowly inching towards sustainability and conscious consumerism. Planet positivity, recycling, and upcycling are terms that are gaining relevance.

"For me, buying 'good' means something that is fashionable, classic, relevant, high-quality, low-maintenance, versatile, and is a collectible. Sustainable fashion is

far more holistic for me than just buying organic. It has to be a responsible fashion move. For example, all our fabrics are biodegradable and high-quality and can be passed down through generations, making them reusable," says the designer.

Current fashion scene Dhir’s design philosophy is dominated by textiles that are converted into luxurious, unique pieces.

Whether it’s his minutely detailed menswear, his brocade pantsuits for women, or his whimsical prints, he’s here to inject our everyday fashion with all things unique. On being asked about the one thing he would like to change in the current Indian fashion scene, he says, "I would undo the ‘Bollywoodisation’ of Indian weddings. They have become so homogenous that everything looks the same. The cultural shift is missing. It’s just the same lehenga choli everywhere. The beauty of our country lies in its different cultures, and it would be nice to see some diversity. " Business and more The toughest time for me was after winning the Woolmark. Too much happened too soon. I was ready as a designer, but not as a company.

However, today I’m more settled and ready to expand and diversify," says Dhir. He adds, "I want to jump into décor, crockery, swimwear; the list is endless. But I only want to collaborate with experts as that’s the best way to do it."

His brand is not only popular in big cities but in smaller towns as well.

He recently showcased his collection at Amiraah, a multi-designer store in Kanpur, and feels that there’s no difference between the two. I think it’s the same consumer now. "Social media has bridged all kinds of gaps that existed, making everyone stay connected and updated," says Dhir.

K

arishma Tanna and her beau Varun Bangera were dressed to the nines in Designer Punit Balana for the Mehendi ceremony before the wedding. Karishma looked stunning in a yellow bandhni lehenga with a pink tinge, while her would-be husband looked dapper in a block printed redchuridar kurta.

The lehenga features delicate marodi work and contrast red piping. It has a sleeveless blouse with a deep U neckline, gold embroidery, mirror details, and a back tie with tassels.

Karishma accessorised her lehenga with an organza silk dupatta with scalloped gold embroidered borders.

“Karishma’s family has a tradition of wearing Bandhej to weddings. We created a beautiful Bandhej lehenga in accordance with Anaita’s brief, making it fun, festive, colourful, and playful. We added a lot of tassels and fun elements to the lehenga, as well as a pink element “Punit Balana, the designer, shared his thoughts.

“An element from Karishma’s lehenga on pink and block print was designed for the groom, Varun,” he added further.

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27

WHAT’S ON

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

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28

WHAT’S ON

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

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29

ENTERTAINMENT

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

Valentine's Day special poster from director Pooja Hegde's extra efforts to ensure her roles in movies don't get sidelined Kaveri Kalyani's film grabs attention

Instagram

Instagram

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eing one of the busiest actresses of the south right now, Pooja Hegde is all set for a couple of big releases ahead.

Going back in time, Pooja had stated in one of her older interviews, how she maintains to be in focus, and not get sidelined in movies starring actors whose persona is so much larger than life.

On being quizzed about how Pooja strikes a balance to maintain her glam quotient, and also don't become just the decoration in a film, Pooja said that that confidence comes from within.

"I think it comes from an inner self-belief", as she quotes an instance from the Allu Arjun starrer 'Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo', "People did talk about 'Butta Bomma', and the songs much more than anything else. But, there were a few scenes where I tried to strike a balance, indicating how much importance my role carries, in the story".

"Also, I go an extra mile, and dub for my movies, even though the language is difficult. Now or later, people will recognize me and my efforts", the 'Radhe Shyam' actress had said.

On being asked about her experience working with Prabas for 'Radhe Shyam', Pooja said, "Prabhas is quite a goofy person, though at first, he looked so shy. I enjoyed time with him and felt comfortable to act alongside him. That is why our chemistry in the movie has come out so well".

Prabhas and Pooja Hegde-starrer 'Radhe Shyam' gears up for its release, while Pooja's appearance alongside Vijay in the movie 'Beast' has raised much buzz as well.

Shreya Dhanwanthary spills the beans on her character, challenges in audio show 'Pitching Pyaar'

A Valentine's Day poster released by the unit of a film featuring actor Chethan Cheenu in the lead, has caught the attention of netizens.

The film, which will mark the directorial debut of well-known actress Kaveri Kalyani, is being bankrolled

by K2K Productions.

To mark Valentine's Day, the film unit chose to release two posters.

While the pre-look poster had the hero holding a rose and standing behind a tree, the poster released on Valentine's Day had Chethan Cheenu in the buff, wearing a dejected look.

Both these posters have caught the attention of film fans.

Kaveri Kalyani, who is known for her impressive performances in Tamil films like 'Kannukkul Nilavu', 'Kasi' and 'Samudhiram', is not only directing the film but also producing it under her home banner K2K productions. Interestingly, Kaveri has also written the story of the film, which is said to be a love story with a suspense thriller element to it.

The film's shooting is in its final stages. There was a small gap in filming due to the pandemic.

However, sources say that post production work will start soon, following which the release date will be finalised and announced.

Suhasini Maniratnam, Siddhi Idnani

Shreya Ghoshal: SLB's a magician who understands the art of filmmaking and music

T

he makers of the upcoming film 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' have released a new track titled 'Jab Saiyaan' sung by Shreya Ghoshal on Tuesday. The renowned singer has praised filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and called him a magician who truly understands the art of filmmaking and music.

Bhansali has created this beautiful composition with the voice Ghoshal and lyrics penned by AM Turaz. Along with this melodious ballad, the director also introduces Shantanu Maheshwari to portray one of the key characters in the film.

Ghoshal says, "'Jab Saiyaan' is one of

the most different compositions by Sir. It's always a learning experience for me everytime I work with him.

20 years of my musical career and I have to thank him for believing in me and giving me my debut. He's a magician who truly understands the art of filmmaking and music."

"I am so happy that I am a part of his 'Gangubai Kathiawadi' journey as well. 'Jab Saiyaan' is definitely a song that will make everyone fall in love once again!"

Produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Dr. Jayantilal Gada (Pen Studios), the film is all set to release theatrically on February 25, 2022.

Tanvi Thakkar on role in 'Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin': I can relate very much to my onscreen character

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ctress Tanvi Thakkar, who currently essays the role of Shivani in the TV show 'Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin', very much relates to her role.

She says: "I can relate very much to my onscreen character. As an actors we always watch web content and hope we can get to play such characters we can relate to and very much practical to real life. My character in the show is like that. When I read my lines I feel, in a situation like this I would probably say the same thing.

That's what I love the most about playing Shivani."

Tanvi made her television acting debut in 2008 with the television show 'Miley Jab Hum Tum'. Recently she replaced actress Yamini Malhotra in the show. Tanvi is enjoying acting for the show.

The actress adds: "My experience while acting in the show has been very much excellent. From the team to the artists everyone is very warm and welcoming. It's a show that's topping the charts too, so the added responsibility to give my best is so fun and challenging."

Instagram

Veer Rajwant Singh and Nikki, essayed by Shreya.

Shreya explains the concept behind 'Pitching Pyaar' and says it is a love story between two individuals who are occupied with their own issues and how things change when they meet and develop liking each other.

"It follows the journey of Kabir as he meets with Nikki and sees if they find time for each other while they're busy planning out their lives.

So, it is very interesting to see how they will take things forward and take life as it comes or will they go exactly what they thought they planned for life," she explains.

Shreya further unveils her character in the audio show and adds: "I play Nikisha Abraham and she has decided the course of action for her life, but then she meets Kabir and both of them start having feelings for one another but important is to see if this actually works out because their plans take both of them completely in different directions. But they want to be in the same direction together. So, whether they're able to make that happen or not, this can be understood only after listening to the show."

M

umbai Diaries' actress Shreya Dhanwanthary is busy these days with her audio show 'Pitching Pyaar'.

She told IANS how it was to be

part of this light-hearted complex love tale and also shared about her preparation behind the narration for the audio show. It is a story of a young aspiring entrepreneur Kabir played by 'What The Folks' actor

Shreya, who is known for her roles 'The Family Man', 'Mumbai Diaries' and more says doing an audio show is a learning process for her.

She says: "This was very much a learning on the job kind of an experience. So, I had to learn how to hit the right notes with a particular word. Along with that, we had made sure that we were enunciating as well. So that was a cool learning curve for me. I was curious and intrigued to see if I'm able to capture the audience with an audio format."

'Pitching Pyaar', produced by DICE media, is available on Audible.

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, Swetha, Rohith Murali, Shakalaka Sankar, VTV Pugazh and others have played key roles in the film which has cinematography by Alby Antony and Shakthi Saravanan. Music for the film has been scored by Achu Rajamani and art direction is by Murali and Jeethu.

Here's why Dulquer Salmaan's film is named 'Hey Sinamika!'

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op choreographer Brinda Master, who is making her directorial debut with 'Hey Sinamika', a romantic comedy featuring actors Dulquer Salmaan, Aditi Rao Hydari and Kajal Aggarwal in the lead, has now disclosed why she chose to name her first film so.

Brinda, who considers filmmaker Mani Ratnam her guru, had choreographed a song titled 'Aye Sinamika' for his film 'OK Kanmani'.

Fortunately, the director says that by a strange stroke of coincidence, the word 'Sinamika' also means 'angry girls' and that fit perfectly with the film's plotline.

Without any second thoughts, director Brinda decided that this was going to be her film's title and locked it!

Elaborating further, she says, "I choreographed one of Mani sir's songs 'Aye Sinamika' in the past and that too featured Dulquer. I really liked the title and when I told Mani sir about it, he laughingly said, 'So, now you are taking the title from one of my films?' You could say it's

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my tribute to him."

Produced and presented by Jio Studios, associate producer Global One Studios, the film has already

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been cleared by the Censor Board with a 'U' certificate and is scheduled to hit screens on March 3.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Vol 2, Issue 1 Feb 16-28, 2022

'Learning pole dancing was on my wishlist and I achieved it: 'Bhagya Lakshmi' actress Maera Misshra

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hagya Lakshmi' actress Maera Misshra has always been attracted to pole dancing and now she has finally been able to fulfill that wish. She had recently posted about her dancing skills on her social media handle.

Talking about her love for pole dancing, Maera mentioned: "I have always been very attracted to pole dancing. I really think it looks absolutely amazing. I was watching back-to-back videos of pole dancing on social media and then one day, I decided to reach out to my friend who is a great dancer, to teach me how to pole dance."

The MTV 'Splitsvilla 11' actress shares more about her attending the pole dancing classes and appreciates those who know this dancing style as it is quite challenging.

"I went for my first class in August 2021, and it was a wonderful experience. Learning pole dancing has always been on my list and I wanted to learn this before I plan on getting married. So now I have finally done it, I applaud every person who knows this art. It's a very difficult dance form and not as easy as it looks, and anyone who knows this can tell that it's one of the best ways to do the full-body workout," she adds.

'Bhagya Lakshmi' airs on Zee TV.

Tamannaah on 'Gurthunda Seethakalam': Romantic drama demands you be more empathetic

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n the occasion of Valentine's Day, the makers of pan-India film 'Gurthunda Seethakalam' released the trailer on Monday. The film's actress Tamannaah Bhatia says a romantic drama demands one be more empathetic and soft.

Starring alongside Satyadev, the film will narrate the story of finding true love in today's age and era.

While sharing her excitement, Tamannaah said: "There is a certain charm in the love story, 'Gurthunda Seethakalam'. It makes you connect to the characters instantly. Working on the film with Satyadev was an incredible experience.

"A romantic drama demands you to be more empathetic and soft, and I had the best time exploring the same nuances as an actor."

He added: I am really looking forward to the film's release because I am sure it will resonate with the audience."

Apart from 'Gurthunda Seethakalam', Tamannaah has 'F3' and 'Bhola Shankar' in the South and 'Plan A Plan B' and' Yaar Dost' in Bollywood.

Deepti Sadhwani recounts her experience shooting for Haryanvi number 'Naughty Saiyaan' Instagram

Mumbai, Feb 14 (IANS) Deepti Sadhwani and Kamal Digiya-starrer Haryanvi song 'Naughty Saiyaan' garnered a positive response after it was launched.

Deepti, who has given some hit music videos like 'Haryana Roadways', 'Lala Lala Lori', 'Toot Jaayein' and 'Butterfly Wale' opens up about her experience of doing this song which is a peppy number. She shares how tough it was to shoot the music video at 4 degree celsius.

The lyrics for the song have been penned by Ricky Singh, who has also sung it with Monica Sharma.

The music video has been directed

by Sahil Sandhu and Paras Batra and has been co-produced by Harshit Digiya and Hanssika Digiya.

Deepti says: "'Naughty Saiyaan' is released on Valentine's weekend and it's a chance to get naughty with your saiyaan. It was a great shooting experience. We shot the song in a cold barren place around two hours away from Jaipur in a palace in Kishangarh. It was barren and artwork had to be done. It was really cold when we shot the song. It was almost 4 degrees at night a month or so back when we shot it. It can get really cold at night in Rajasthan."

She adds: "We were sitting by a www.indianabroad.news

bonfire and we would come to shoot after that. It was very difficult to dance within the fire ring. There was a shortage of petrol and kerosene and it was lit for only 5 minutes. I had to jump in the ring and the fire would come to my face almost and there was a fear that it might catch my hair or something.

"There was a shot where there were dancers also inside the ring but that wasn't included in the final

cut. It was incredibly difficult. It's an absolute foot tapper. It's a total dance number. Just show your love and support. It's a little different from what I have done in the past.

So please support and show all your love."

The song promotions have been handled by Digiya Digitals and it is under the label Digiya Music which features Deepti Sadhwani, Kamal Digiya, Ricky, and rapper Mont E.

Madhuri Dixit shares her passion for acting in web series 'The Fame Game'

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ollywood superstar Madhuri Dixit is making headlines these days with her digital debut with the web series 'The Fame Game'. The show is all about a successful actress who has all the luxuries but along with this her life holds a plethora of secrets.

The actress talks about her OTT debut and her love for acting. She recalls her journey as an actress and what keeps her motivating after so many years.

She says: "I think, one never really gets tired of playing different characters. I love to get into the skin of every character I play. And it's always exciting when you get a role, which has a gamut of emotions to deal with. You know, one that has ups and downs in their life because it's such characters that challenge you to do better, rise above, and keep you on your toes."

After winning the hearts of movie buffs and giving a number of hit movies, Madhuri still feels that there is a lot to learn and she is still a student.

"I think for me, I have always been a student of cinema. And whenever I do a project, I try to rediscover or discover something new in a character which I can portray and do better than my previous performance," she

concludes.

'The Fame Game' is produced by Karan Johar, Apoorva Mehta, Somen Mishra, Sri Rao and Dharmatic Entertainment.

Bejoy Nambiar and Karishma Kohli are the directors of the series and it

features Madhuri Dixit Nene, Sanjay Kapoor, Manav Kaul, Suhasini Muley, Lakshvir Saran, Muskkaan Jaferi and Rajshri Deshpande.

It will be released on February 25 on Netflix

First 'Gully Boy', and now 'Gehraaiyan': Siddhant's films and their V-Day connection

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iddhant Chaturvedi made his debut in Hindi cinema with the film 'Gully Boy' on Valentine's Day in 2019 and his latest release 'Gehraiyaan' too released in the week leading to Valentine's Day. The actor finds it ironic that he has a special connection with the lovefilled day.

Siddhant says: "It's ironic that I have a special connection with Valentine's week...Gully Boy released on Valentine's Day and Gehraiyaan too in the same week. It's proved to be really lucky for me and I feel extremely grateful for all the love and support. I hope to continue this lucky streak."

At the start of his career, Siddhant shot to fame as MC Sher in Gully Boy and ever since there's been no looking back for the actor. The actor also has his hands full with an incredible line-up that promises to showcase his true potential as an artist.

He will next be seen in 'Bhoot Police', 'Yudhra' and 'Kho Gaye Hum Kahan'.

Kangana Ranaut launches trailer showing glimpse of reality show 'Lock Upp'

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ollywood actress Kangana Ranaut recently unveiled the trailer of the fearless reality show 'Lock Upp'. She shares her delight on hosting it and speaks about the concept of the show.

Kangana Ranaut says: "The spectacular launch of the show had piqued everyone's curiosity, and the trailer is a testament of how bold, controversial and exciting it is going to be. I am happy to unveil the trailer in our country's capital city, and I am equally thrilled and excited for foraying into the OTT space with such a unique and brilliant concept."

She later expresses her gratitude to Ekta Kapoor, saying : "I want to thank my boss-lady Ekta, for always being by my side, and she has always been someone I admire and respect a lot. So to all my fans out there, get ready for the most 'fearless' show ever."

The show's trailer features the daring host Kangana wearing a shimmery, glittery golden dress, holding a shiny baton in her hands.

Kangana can be seen sitting on a luxurious, velvet throne in a sombre jail cell and says: "Living here is no less than a dream… a bad one, though! Walking through the jail corridor."

Kangana states how dangerous the 'Lock Upp' world is, and it will be a nightmare! 16 controversial celebrities will be put together in Lock Upp for months and stripped of their amenities.

Forget about fulfilling their high

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demands, and the contestants will be locked up in the show's prison with people they can't see eye-to-eye with. To avoid eviction, the celebrity contestants have no option but to reveal their dark secrets to the entire world.

Television czarina Ekta Kapoor says: "Unlike other reality shows, 'Lock Upp' is being launched on a massive scale and has all the elements that

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make for an entertaining reality show. The concept of the show is brilliant and never-seen-before, as you must have seen in the trailer, and I am sure that it will captivate the viewers and set a new standard for reality shows."

'Lock Upp' will be airing from February 27 on ALTBalaji and MX Player.

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