Indian Weekender - 14 August 2015

14 August, 2015 • Vol. 7 Issue 21 | www.iwk.co.nz

New Zealand’s first Kiwi-Indian weekly newspaper

The Pulse of Kiwi-Indians

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY 15 AUGUST 2015

Auckland • Christchurch • Wellington • Hamilton • Palmerston North • Hastings • Invercargill

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14 August 2015 | www.iwk.co.nz

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www.iwk.co.nz | 14 August 2015

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What does Independence Day mean? ¡¡Sunny Kaushal

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At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom. A moment comes, which comes but rarely in history, when we step out from the old to the new, when an age ends, and when the soul of a nation, long suppressed, finds utterance.” These were the ever famous words of the first Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, 68 years ago on August 15, as he spoke of India’s “tryst with destiny” and the time to “redeem our pledge”.

Indian fight for freedom was a much longer and painful than that of many other countries.

Independence Day of India has a different meaning for different people of Indian origin living worldwide. It is an emotional and sensitive subject for many particularly the older (my) generation. They would tell you about the sacrifices made by our ancestors and freedom fighters since 1856 to gain

freedom from the British and you would also hear on the painful partition saga of 1947 when the Indian subcontinent was partitioned, India was split into two separate countries—the secular state of India, dominated

by Hindus, and the Muslim state Pakistan. You would hear how the British hastily and arbitrarily divided India along religious lines forcing the largest mass migration in human history while leaving behind their former colony. Millions of people were forced to leave their homes because of religious/communal violence. Severe rioting and population movement ensued and an estimated half a million people were killed. About a million people were left homeless.

That was a time when our ancestors had fought for our existence and survival, our right to live with dignity and heads held high, our freedom where we create our own destiny.

Let us look at India today; how far the nation has come from August 15, 1947? With 1.27 billion

population, of which 835 million can vote, today India is the world’s largest democracy and emerged as a major power in the 1990s.

India is now considered as one of the most advanced countries in the world, it launches its own satellites and in 2008 sent its first spacecraft to the moon. It is among the strongest in the world—militarily, has major cultural influence and a fastgrowing and powerful economy, which is projected to overtake the US as the world’s second largest economy by 2050 in PPP terms. India is now the largest Milk producer in the world, it was behind European Union till last year but now with 132.4m tonnes production in 2014. According to International Monetary Fund director Christine Lagarde, India could outpace China as the world’s fastest growing economy as soon as this year. The country’s economy is expected to grow 7.5% in the upcoming 2015–2016 fiscal year, which begins in April, up from 7.2% in the current fiscal year. At that rate, India would

be the world’s fastest growing large economy. India is one of the world’s oldest civilisations, yet a very young nation. India is not a typical emerging market economy. It is a very specific talent market, and the Indian economy operates totally differently from any other emerging market or global growth economy. India is the solution to supply an aging world with a highly literate, English speaking and very driven young workforce. More than half of India’s 1.25 billion population is below the age of 25, with 12 million Indians entering the workforce every year. The Indian Government and local industry is working on a target of skills development for 500 million Indians by 2022.

With exponential growth also come challenges including social, law and order, economic and environmental problems.

Be it first world or third world, it is no different than other countries in the world dealing with their own similar problems and turmoil. On comparison, a

country of mammoth size such as India that houses 1/6th of world’s population and a size of entire Europe may not be as alarming as being portrayed in today’s so called social media by every Tom, Dick and Harry.

India’s Independence Day is more than a day to celebrate the success of our democracy.

It is truly a time for the Indians worldwide to reflect and take pride in who we are. We have brought this country so far and yet so close to what our forefathers had dreamed it to be. Let us salute our ancestors, freedom fighters, scientists, leaders and the very people who contributed to the success of India. Take pride in telling our next generations on their proud roots and pass on these values to them. Jai Hind.

Sunny Kaushal is one of the senior activists and an active member in Kiwi Indian community. He was the Labour Party Candidate in General Election 2011 and 2014.

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14 August 2015 | www.iwk.co.nz Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi List MP, National Party

Andrew Little Labour Party Leader Red

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Namaste !

I take this opportunity to wish my Indian brothers and sister happy 69th Indian Independence Day. The Indian Independence Day signifies years of struggle by our countrymen and women who stood for their beliefs and values. It also signifies that if we can stand together to achieve a common goal the victory will be ours. We should continue to keep these core beliefs and values in our minds regardless of where we choose live.

I feel that I am fortunate to be born in a country that has produced men and women of outstanding calibre.

It is our attitude to stand in face of adversity that makes India and its citizens unique. Dr APJ Abdul Kalam was one leading example of such outstanding calibre and humble attitude.

People of Indian origin continue to make their mark across the globe through their efforts. The Indian Weekender has because of its management and team managed to create a special place amongst its readers.

Dr Parmjeet Parmar

List MP, National Party

My hearty congratulations to the Government of India, Indian High Commission to New Zealand and the Indian community in New Zealand and all around the world, on the joyous occasion of India’s Independence Day anniversary.

As an Indian born New Zealander, I am very proud of the progress that India has made since its independence. The credit goes to those

courageous men and women who made India an Independent country back in 1947. I pay homage to those millions of people who fought for India’s Independence, for if they didn’t, our growth as a nation and ethnicity would not be where it is today.

While we celebrate our vibrant culture, heritage and aspirations during Independence Day festivities, I commend the Indian community in New Zealand for preserving the culture and heritage.

As part of India’s Independence Day celebrations all around New Zealand, I am looking forward to the Indian Weekender’s special issue on India’s

History was made 69 years ago when India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru raised the Indian national flag above the Lahore Gate in Delhi for the first time.

Indian independence was won with a campaign of largely non-violent resistance and civil disobedience led by the Indian National Congress. It was a remarkable achievement in the bloody post war deconstruction of Colonialism. In modern New Zealand the Indian community adds to the rich diversity of our society.

They are visible entrepreneurial leaders in our small and medium businesses, and are prominent in various other sectors of New Zealand society such as health, politics, sports and the arts. This community is New Zealand’s fastest growing Kiwi ethnic group with over 186,100 people of Indian descent now living here.

India is New Zealand’s main supplier of skilled migrants and the number of international students from India has also increased steadily for the last few years. Labour has always valued the colour and richness of our Indian communities. Helen Clark’s Labour Government established the Office of Ethnic Affairs (OEA) and appointed Ministers of Ethnic Affairs to ensure, for the first time, that immigrant perspectives were considered in policy.

Today I offer my congratulations to India on this momentous day. India and New Zealand share a longstanding and warm relationship. We are both members of the Commonwealth and share a love of both mountaineering and cricket!

Independence Day celebrations. I congratulate the management and staff of the Indian Weekender for serving the needs of the Indian community in Auckland.

India holds a strong cultural presence in New Zealand with a vibrant community of New Zealanders of Indian Heritage. Indians comprise almost four percent of New Zealand›s population, and this percentage is growing quickly. The strong Indian cultural presence can also be attributed to the record numbers of Indians travelling to New Zealand as New Zealand is a very desirable holiday destination for many Indians.

I thank each and every member of the community helping build ties between our two great countries- whether through business, trade, education culture or family ties. All these activities play an important part in strengthening the relationship between our two countries.

While we enjoy the festivities, let’s take this opportunity to reflect on what we have achieved and what we can achieve by working together.

I hope you have a great day with family friends and the community celebrating this occasion and happy independence anniversary day!

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www.iwk.co.nz | 14 August 2015 Phil Goff

MP, Labour Party Red

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Congratulations to the people and Government of India and to the New Zealand Indian community on the occasion of India’s 69th Independence Day. While India measures its age as a modern independent state as 69 years, Indian civilisation is one of the world’s oldest going back over five thousand years.

Over the last half century, Indian migrants to New Zealand have added richly to our cultural tapestry. We thank you for bringing to this country the gift of your rich and diverse culture and history, your hard work and strong values.

Mahesh Bindra List MP, NZ First Party It is my absolute pleasure to write on behalf of New Zealand First in support of the Independence Day celebrations for India – the world’s largest democracy. This is a very special day in the calendar for Indians all over the world and

Priyanca Radhakrishnan Labour Party

It is with great pleasure that I congratulate the country of my birth and fellow New Zealanders of Indian origin on the occasion of India’s 69th Independence Day. Today we pay tribute to those who struggled to achieve independence for India.

We respect the men and women who held onto their principles and led the freedom movement from North to South, East to West.

We also celebrate our vibrant cultures, our commitment to democracy and India’s historical contributions to the fields of arts, science, mathematics, medicine and philosophy.

While India and New Zealand differ vastly in size, we share a common commitment to democracy, membership of the Commonwealth and a great love of cricket!

Migration and strong people-to-people links have contributed much to the strength and warmth of the New Zealand-India relationship. India has many challenges ahead of it, but also much to celebrate as the most populous and one of the most diverse nations in the world, which has preserved its democracy, its unity and its culture, and which is fast emerging as a modern and prosperous nation.

On this day of celebration for India, I congratulate it for its past achievements and wish it well for the future. especially for us here in New Zealand. I am looking forward to joining with you as a Kiwi Indian and representing New Zealand First in the festivities in both Auckland and Wellington. Indian diaspora have come a long way and New Zealand First salutes your contribution to the New Zealand economy, business and culture.

Jai Hind!

We celebrate the successes of Indian diaspora communities across the globe.

And we stand proud as New Zealanders of Indian origin who continue to play a significant part in the rich social fabric of this nation.

We are a community that has called New Zealand home since the late 18th century, overcome many struggles over the years, and grown in diversity in the recent past. My vision for the New Zealand Indian community is one of solidarity as we overcome future hurdles together and also celebrate our achievements across the various walks of life that contribute to New Zealand’s success.

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14 August 2015 | www.iwk.co.nz

What does Independence Day mean to the Kiwi Indian community?

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Chirag, Rupal and Siddhraj Sinh Solanki Let us not take our independence for granted. Let us do our bit to make India a better place; a legacy to live for and to die for. Happy Independence Day. Jai Hind.

Atul Kumar Independence is a perception of mind and a feeling understood by an individual. To me, it is a feeling of pride, joy and happiness that has been given to me by the freedom fighters. It invokes the desire of attending the flag hosting ceremony at sunrise. The day is not about listening to patriotic songs and shouting Jai Hind, it is a day to look back and evaluate our deeds and what we have done to cherish the luxury of freedom we are born with.

Arishma Narayan Looking back at the history of India, Independence Day for an Indian means a lot. It means freedom, liberation, patriotism and self-dependence. It is their pride. Most importantly, it is the sweet fruit they gained after a hard long struggle.

Abhi Tayade Independence is freedom of choice without harming others; freedom of religion, careers and sexuality–as long as your freedom does not interfere with others. That is what independence really is.

For the most part, we have total freedom and that freedom must remain within everything.

Rahul Das Let us honour the patriotism of the people who gave their lives to free India. Always keep the spirit of patriotism glowing within you. I am proud to be an Indian.

Happy Independence Day. Akanksha Mehra August 15, a day of pride for every Indian. I go back to the assembly days at school when we would hoist mini national flags as kids. Yes, we are independent but I think we will be truly independent when every Indian woman feels independent. When fathers, like mine, support their daughters to be self-sufficient and self-reliant in every possible manner. I long for that true Indian independence.

Alisha Iyer Independence Day is the one day I associate with unity in diversity. It was the one day of the year when we dressed up as representatives from each state of India, all coming together on one stage for the school Independence Day performance. I was always a representative of Tamil Nadu (even though I’m from Kerala), and my Maharashtrian friend was my counterpart, as apparently, he looked like a South Indian. Silly stereotypes, but the essence that I took from it was that we are all the same, no matter which part of the country we are from.

I wish every day was Independence Day (at least for the spirit of unity). It would make the world a much better place.

Karanvir Sharma Wishing all my fellow Indians heartiest greetings on our Independence Day. Our Independence was obtained through great struggle and supreme life sacrifices made by our predecessors.

They suffered extreme hardships in their life and youth to obtain for us a future of freedom from foreign yoke and oppression.

Today, our beloved India stands at a special pedestal on the world stage not only as the largest multicultural and multi religious democracy but also as a major contributor to peace and all round development. Let us all together vow on this special day, to positively contribute in all possible manner to add glory to our great country and earn worldwide respect and recognition for India. Let us today come together and display our Unity in diversity. Jai Hind.

Hrilina Sabharwal Wishing all Indians a very happy Independence Day. This day cannot be celebrated without paying our deepest respect to all those who lost their lives and made endless sacrifices for our nation. India is definitely a work in progress, and I am sure with honest leadership our country will mark a significant place in the world.

Selina Nihalani I come from an army background. My paternal grandfather was a Lieutenant Colonel and my maternal grandfather was a civilian working for the army. I respect and feel grateful for all who fought and continue to fight to keep India free and safe. Their service and sacrifice provides the freedom that I exercise today. Since independence, India has come a long way. Nonetheless, there are still people living below the poverty line, and it is our social responsibility to provide them with basic necessities of life.

Natasha Iyer I have been fortunate to grow up with a level of freedom denied to many, and I am most grateful for it and part of it is undeniably because of the vision of our ancestors. Independence Day to me means to live so far away from home but still be every bit Indian and swell with pride when I hear the national anthem.

Abhishek Sharma India is a wonderful nation and even in its darkest hour, her people have stood strong. To me, Independence Day is freedom of thought and action; the freedom to make my own choices. However, the kind of freedom I was born with, for which so much blood was shed, I salute my Motherland and all those brave souls who fought for it.

Jai Hind!

Atinder Brar Independence Day brings the memories of my school days, doing parade on the occasion, dressing up in a kurta, playing patriotic songs and school holidays.

Those are my fond memories, and I am proud to say that I belong to the country of multicultural people. I miss my country and to all my fellow Indians, Happy Independence Day.

Sanchit Gupta August 15 is a memorable day for every Indian. Although we became independent as a nation, as citizens, we have a long way to go. We are still slaves to obnoxious beliefs, money and to those few who hold power. People are exploited on the basis of their caste. Discrimination still runs deep in the roots of the society. We need to break from these shackles and treat every profession, caste, religion and gender with equal respect. Only then we can consider ourselves to be truly independent.

Sunita Bhide For me, August 15 is a day of true celebration, rather than just a holiday.

Indian history was a huge part of the curriculum in our school days, so we could understand the importance of independence, and celebrate the demise of the British Empire from India.

Being brought up in a city which had a huge legacy of freedom fighters, we all knew exactly why freedom was important and why people gave away their lives. I believe we should make an attempt to educate our next generation about India’s rich history.

Santosh I have been staying in New Zealand for four years and I miss India dearly. I still remember how it was when we were in school. We used to go to school without books and sing the national anthem and there would be flag hoisting and the best part was the sweet given to us at the end of the ceremony. I get nostalgic thinking about all of this.

Debbie Sharma Independence Day is a day of pride and joy and a feeling of appreciation to thousands who gave their lives for the freedom of our country. It is a day when we remember the patriotism of such brave souls who gave us a free India. I am proud to be a part of this amazing nation and looking forward to the possibility of a completely new India.

Samskruta Tiwari For me independence is able to express myself without anyone holding you back. I feel Independence Day is the time to introspect and ask oneself if we are really free from social issues haunting us.

Suneetha Independence Day is a time to look back and thank people who gave us independence. Having said that, there is a lot of work that needs to be done to improve our society. I feel we need to make our country a better place to live for women. Only then we can say that India is free and independent.

Tejaswini When we see the plight of some undeveloped countries, I feel lucky to be born and brought up in India. There are certain things that needs to be changed, but who can boast to be perfect in every sense? I have always felt safe and secure in India and I feel that is what independence is.

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Pankaj Sharma Independence Day in Jammu used to be wonderful. The streets would be decorated with flyers, banners, songs playing on big speakers, flag hoisting on the streets and patriotic films on TV. I feel sad that I am so far from my nation but I love my country and proud to represent it in New Zealand. Jai Hind!

Ankit Sehgal Independence is opening up a world of opportunities, where knowledge is free, where we all have equal rights to make our own decisions. For me, it’s the power of imagination.

Krishna Kumar Singh Independence Day means a day of remembering the soldiers who rendered their life for our freedom. Had they not give their lives for us, we wouldn’t have been seeing this beautiful nation of ours cherish and move towards progress. Of course, I miss India and that special day when we would sing the national anthem at the top of our voice. Happy Freedom day, folks.

Roshan Damor Patriotic days always reminds me of school days, parades, cultural programs and fancy dressing.

India has achieved numerable feats such as exploring Mars, one of the biggest and richest entertainment industries in the world Bollywood, World’s 2nd largest army contingent, Sachin Tendulkar and many more. Globally Indians have made our country proud and I pledge to do the same and carry its rich heritage to New Zealand.

Proud to be an Indian.

Bijal Sathwara

On the occasion of Independence Day let us celebrate because remember. Freedom is not Free. It is worth the price. Cherish the Independence! Feel the patriotism from within! Ask not what the country can do for you. But what you can do for the country. Vande Mataram!

Gary Chatwal Liberty to Us is like Soul to Body , I would like to take this opportunity to extend my very warm wishes to fellow Indians all across the world - a very Happy Independence Day -Jai Hind !

Ankur Lakhanpal Independence is not about what we feel, rather what we make of it. Although the occasion marks an important day for citizens, reminding them of their rights, it is more importantly about their duties towards

the country.

Anoushka Patel Independence day is an occasion to remember the sacrifice that our forefathers made to enable us to choose our own destiny. Happy Independence Day!

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 14 August 2015

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Shail Kaushal to represent New Zealand in Taiwan ¡¡IWK Bureau

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iwi Indian youth Shail Kaushal from Auckland has been chosen to represent New Zealand at the Future Leaders from Asia-Pacific study camp in Taiwan from August 10 to 22.

He will be joined by one other youth from Auckland, six from Wellington, 14 from Australia and 12 from Korea. They are being hosted by the Taiwanese Government for a 12-day programme.

Mr Chung-Hsing Chou, Director General of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Auckland, and his team hosted a formal lunch and extended their best wishes to Shail before leaving for Taiwan. The 21-year-old expressed his excitement about the project.

“I am quite excited about this learning opportunity and adding skills. We will be given an insight on the Presidential Office working, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and attending a series of lectures on Foreign Policy.”

Shail is an Honours student at the University of Auckland, specialising in Politics and International Relations. He is also studying Immigration Advice Level 7 at Bay of Plenty Polytechnic. Shail was one

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HAPPY

INDEPENDENCE DAY

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14 August 2015 | www.iwk.co.nz

Conference explores India’s emergence as a global power

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eading scholars from Singapore, India, the Netherlands, Australia and New Zealand will be taking part in a two-day conference on the emergence of India as a global power in the 21st century.

Organised by the New Zealand India Research Institute based at the Victoria University of Wellington, the conference will be opened by Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment, Hon Steven Joyce. The conference will take place on August 25 and 26.

One keynote address will be given by Professor Subrata Mitra, director of the Institute of South Asian Studies at the National University of Singapore, who will consider democracy and the making of foreign policy in India. Another keynote address will be given by Professor Ian Hall of Griffith University on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the remaking of India’s normative power. New Zealand India

Research Institute Director Professor, Sekhar Bandyopadhyay, said that people attending the conference will gain an understanding of what India’s arrival on the global stage means for her Asian neighbours, as well as for the world at large, including New Zealand.

“The conference aims to address issues related to India’s foreign policy as well as domestic politics to understand what kind of power a rising India will evolve into.”

Topics covered include India’s relationship with China, its influence on climate change negotiations, its soft power in South East Asia and its influence in the Middle-East and the Indian Ocean region.

Registrations close on August 14. The registration form is available at http:// www.victoria.ac.nz/hppi/centres/indiaresearch/events

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New Kiwis invited to potluck dinner and quiz Red Black Orange

by ARMS and NZ Newcomers Network

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uckland Regional Migrant Services Charitable Trust (ARMS) and the New Zealand Newcomer Network are holding a free potluck dinner and quiz for migrants at the ARMS offices this weekend.

The potluck dinner and quiz on Saturday, August 15, is a chance for newcomers to meet other migrants and make new friends.

New Kiwis are invited to come along and bring a dish to share with the rest of the party and take part in the quiz where prizes will be up for grabs. The evening starts at 6 p.m.

This is the first event the New Zealand Newcomers Network and ARMS is hosting and forms part of a new partnership between the two organisations to foster friendships between newcomers living in Auckland and will be the first of many collaborative events.

Indian-origin man’s dairy robbed in Christchurch

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n Indian-origin man’s dairy outlet was robbed by an unidentified man in Christchurch on August 8.

Bankhaj Patel, the owner of the dairy outlet in Christchurch city, said that Saturday’s robbery is the second incident in five years.

Patel was not at the shop when the robbery took place and called police when he returned, NZ Herald reported. “He

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(the robber) came in wearing a mask and pointed a gun at my wife. He asked for cigarettes and just walked away. He also took some money. We are all okay... that is the main thing,” Patel was quoted as saying.

“I keep thinking how I can protect myself and my family. I have two kids. I could not sleep all night,” Patel said.

He added that the dangers that come with owning a dairy outlet have increased.

Challenge inspires innovation and self-belief

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Spaces at the potluck dinner and quiz are limited and registration is essential.

For more information or to register your place at the social evening, please contact ARMS on 09 625 2440 or e-mail reception@arms-mrc.org.nz

USHING the limits and taking risks is known to be the X-factor that develops high achievers in New Zealand.

The can do attitude starts early, with school children being challenged to attempt something that pushes them out of their comfort zone and fosters self-belief.

With confidence and a The unique Wero Whitewater Park and conference centre opens in Manukau in 2016 determined nature our young experienced before. “Businesses can also people become highly valued in bring staff teams to Wero Whitewater entrepreneurial environments.

Park and use it as a hub for conferencing, The development in Manukau, topped off with a fun and challenging Auckland—Wero Whitewater Park and adventure that builds their self-awareness. its new conference centre, perfectly “Wero encourages risk taking in a safe encompass the Kiwi give it a go attitude. and controlled environment.”

Under construction beside Vodafone Importantly, much of the corporate Events Centre, Wero will be used by revenue will be paid forward, covering school students, businesses teams and the cost of giving many young people an sports people. adventure that develops their self-esteem The man-made white water course and drive to succeed. that demonstrates innovative engineering “When businesses use facilities within will be one of a kind in New Zealand the Counties Manukau Pacific Trust and soon exhilarating white water group, they make a real difference to rafting and kayaking will be right on the future of young Aucklanders,” says Aucklanders’ doorstep.

Mr Jeffery.

The vision of Counties Manukau Pacific Wero Whitewater Park and conference Trust, which manages the one-stop-shop centre opens early in 2016 and bookings for conferences, trade shows, performing are being taken for the conference arts, events and white water adventure, centre now. was to generate a unique experience that Be one of the first to experience this develops New Zealanders who set goals unique facility. See more at wero.org.nz. and achieve.

Counties Manukau Pacific Trust CEO, Richard Jeffery says, “Young people For more information will face the challenge of teamwork in contact Karyn Spencer, a raft, while they manoeuvre through karyn@pacific.org.nz or moving water—a situation few will have phone 09 976 7777

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 14 August 2015

WorldSkills apprentices leave for Brazil

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outhland WorldSkills apprentices are preparing to take on the best in the world at the World Skills International competition in Brazil next month.

More than 1,200 competitors from 74 member countries are competing in 50 Skill Categories at Anhembi Parque in Sao Paulo from August 11 to 16.

Adam De Pass, Plumbing (Jackson Plumbing), Nick Bastiaansen, Industrial

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Mechanics Millwright (Fonterra) and Michael Good, Joinery (Peter Howley Joinery Ltd) flew out from New Zealand on August 6.

The apprentices have each been assigned a skills mentor by WorldSkills New Zealand since they were named in the Tool Blacks team after competing in the Oceania competition earlier this year.

Their skill mentor has been helping them prepare for the international competition through

a detailed six-month work plan.

The apprentices have also been given access to SIT trades facilities and resources for additional training and preparation.

“These young men are representing us at an international level in trade skills that are the engine room of our economy. They deserve just as much, if not more, recognition than our national sports teams. We wish them every success in Brazil,” said SIT CEO Penny Simmonds.

Applications for Youth Parliament 2016 open

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outh Minister Nikki Kaye this week announced that applications are now open for Youth Parliament 2016, to be held on 19 and 20 July 2016.

“Youth Parliament is a great opportunity for young leaders to get a first-hand experience of how Parliament works,” says Ms Kaye.

As Youth Minister, Ms Kaye is responsible for Youth Parliament, but a committee comprising a member of each political party and the Parliamentary Press Gallery oversees running the event.

“Each MP will select one young person to represent them and their community in Youth Parliament 2016, so we’re looking for 121 young people aged between 16 and 18 to be Youth MPs. “MPs use their own criteria to select their youth representative.

Members of the Multi-Party Steering Committee with former Youth MPs at the opening of applications for Youth Parliament 2016 (left to right): Daisy Cadigan, Youth MP 2013; David Seymour, ACT; Julie Anne Genter, Greens; Jay Evett, Youth MP 2013; Kieran Gera, Youth MP 2010; Hon Peter Dunne, United Future; Hon Nikki Kaye, Youth Minister; Louisa Wall, Labour; Henry Thompson, Youth MP 2013; Sarah Robson, Press Gallery; Darroch Ball, NZ First; Jack McDonald, Youth MP 2010

Based on past experience, there can be keen demand and the selection process can be competitive.

“Youth Parliament replicates the actual workings of Parliament as closely as possible. The Youth MPs get to debate legislation, sit on select committees and ask

questions of Ministers.

“We’re also looking for up to 20 aspiring journalists, aged between 16 and 24, to be Youth Press Gallery members. They will be selected by the Parliamentary Press Gallery, and get to report on events leading up to and during Youth Parliament.

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Shakti celebrate its 20th anniversary

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oving to a new country can be a daunting experience. Living in a new place where you don’t know anyone comes with its challenges.

Twenty years ago, when eight women sat across a table talking about the issues faced by women migrants, they realised that the major problem faced by them in new country is domestic violence.

Today, Shakti- a non-profit organisation founded twenty years ago is a force to reckon with providing a range of services and community initiatives to more than 40 migrants and refugee communities.

Shakti has been a pillar of strength for many providing legal and emotional support to women, children and families of Asian, African and Middle Eastern origin. Having successfully helped many hapless victims of domestic violence, under-aged marriages and forced under aged marriages and other abusive situations.

For the last 20 years, Shakti has been offering advocacy services, temporary safe accommodation for victims of violence and their children, counselling services, etc.

Over the years, Shakti has grown from being a small establishment to a national umbrella organisation with seven member organisations in New Zealand including Central,

West and South Auckland, Central North Island and South Island. Shakti is also an associate member of national collective of independent women’s refuges (NCIWR)/Women’s refuge, New Zealand.

As Shakti celebrates its twentieth anniversary, it continues with its mission and vision of moving towards a world where women and children are empowered to live a life of dignity free from fear and violence and are able to exercise their rights, choices and responsibilities.

Shakti endeavours to facilitate the safety and overall wellbeing of women, young women and children through strategic intervention and prevention measures aimed at eliminating all forms of oppression, abuse and gender-based violence.

In case, you need any help or guidance, call Shakti’s 24x7 toll free number at 0800 742584(0800 SHAKTI) for support and advice.

Shakti invites you to celebrate our…

Anniversary Journey and milestones

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August 20, 2015 20th Anniversary Celebration Gala Mt Eden War Memorial Hall, 487 Dominion Rd, Balmoral, 12:00pm – 5:00pm For more Information visit

www.shakti.org.nz Do come with family & friends!

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NEW ZEALAND

14 August 2015 | www.iwk.co.nz

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New Code of Practice will help visiting drivers

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he finalised Code of Practice for rental vehicle companies is yet another tool to help ensure visiting drivers have all the information necessary to help keep themselves and others safe on our roads, Associate Transport Minister Craig Foss says.

“I’m pleased to see the Rental Vehicle Association and Tourism Industry Association have worked swiftly to develop this Code. I encourage rental vehicle operators to sign up and implement the Code before the peak tourism season,” Mr Foss says.

“This initiative builds on a large amount of work already underway, including the multiagency Visiting Drivers Signature Project, an online training

The new Code of Practice will help visiting drives have all the necessary information to help keep themselves and others safe on the roads

module for overseas travel agents, a Chinese-language safety guide and improvements to road infrastructure.”

Under the Code, rental vehicle operators will assess drivers’ experience, provide more prearrival information on New Zealand driving conditions

and share information with their competitors.

“The Code will also provide rental vehicle operators with procedures for managing situations where they have concerns about a driver’s preparedness to tackle New Zealand conditions,” Mr Foss says.

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Elective surgery rates up by 42%

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ealth Minister Jonathan Coleman says more New Zealanders are receiving the elective surgeries they need compared to seven years ago.

“As New Zealanders live longer lives, access to elective surgery is becoming more important than ever,” says Dr Coleman.

“Improving access to electives is a multi-dimensional goal.

It includes reducing waiting times, increasing the number of First Specialist Assessments and elective discharges.

“The number of patients receiving elective surgery across the country has increased from 117,954 in 2007–08 to 167,188 in 2014–15. That is around 50,000 more surgeries over the last seven years—a 42 per cent increase.

“The elective surgery target of 4,000 more operations a year has again been exceeded in 2014–15 with over 5,000 electives carried out. “This lift in elective surgery rates is a credit to the hard working health professionals working across the country.”

These improvements are supported by the $400 million invested into health this year in Budget 2015. The Government has committed to investing around $1.7 billion in health over the next four years for new initiatives and to meet cost pressures and population growth.

This includes $98 million to provide more New Zealanders with timely elective surgery, and to improve the prevention and treatment of orthopaedic conditions.

Westpac: ‘The tide has StudyLink improvements turned’ on the economy continue for students

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estpac has rung alarm bells over the state of the economy, predicting growth will plummet, unemployment surge and the housing market to slow, says Labour’s Finance spokesperson Grant Robertson.

“In its quarterly Economic Overview, Westpac warns growth will quickly fall below two per cent and unemployment soon reach 6.5 per cent. This is an indictment on National’s economic management.

“Westpac says ‘We expect the economic situation to deteriorate markedly’ due to the dairy farmers’ payout drop and the Christchurch rebuild peaking early.

“These two events were entirely predictable.

Economists have warned of the looming global milk glut and the rebuild tapering off

for well over a year. It is a damning indictment on National’s overoptimistic economic management that they have done nothing to prepare New Zealand for the coming ‘shock’.

“Westpac also warns that the housing market is set to slow down.

“National’s failure to diversify the economy left an economic stool with only three legs of dairy, the rebuild and housing. All three are now being kicked out from under the Government.

“John Key and Bill English are in denial. It’s time they took off the rose-tinted glasses and played it straight with New Zealanders.

The economy is stuttering and they need to front up with a plan to get it moving again,” Grant Robertson said.

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ssociate Social Development Minister Jo Goodhew says more than 130,000 students this year have benefitted from the improvements made to the student loan and allowance application process.

Improvements include simplified website content, fast pre-filled forms, a digital document depository using New Zealand Post’s ‘Connect’ service, and a vastly improved call centre experience.

“Reduced call centre waiting times have given students faster access to StudyLink support and advice. The number of unanswered calls has been slashed from more than 800,000 in 2013 to less than 8,000 this year,” says Mrs Goodhew.

More students will benefit from StudyLink improvements

“The online application process has also improved to the extent that our physical offices are reporting a 22.5% drop in foot traffic over the past year, which shows just how much time we are saving students.

“Three years of collaboration between StudyLink and the national student union has allowed us to respond to student feedback

Broad support for changes to fire services

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clear message for change to the way our fire services are structured has emerged following the extensive consultation around the government’s Fire Service Review discussion document. While it is evident communities value the work of our fire services, they also want them to be fit for purpose in 21st century New Zealand.

More than 230 submissions were received from individuals or on behalf of groups such as brigades, volunteers, local authorities or other emergency services.

The discussion document, released at the end of May, asked for

public feedback on ways to improve support for firefighters, reflect local needs, and enhance the governance of fire services.

“Fire services are such an integral part of our communities, especially in rural New Zealand, so it’s not surprising that people have responded with thoughtful, constructive feedback on how best to achieve these objectives,” Peter Dunne, Minister of Internal Affairs says.

During the consultation Mr Dunne met firefighters from around New Zealand, along with local councils, forest owners, farmers, and community representatives.

“The consultation meetings and the

submissions have together sent a strong message in favour of change.

That understanding of the need to refocus the way these services operate runs right through the different sectors of our fire services – rural and urban, volunteers and career firefighters, small towns and big cities.

“More importantly, this Review has prompted excellent dialogue about the things that make our fire services one of the most respected and trusted public services in New Zealand,” said Mr Dunne Themes that came up at the consultation meetings and in the submissions emphasised the importance of strong links

between the fire services and their communities, the need for strong support for volunteers, effective service delivery and options for improving funding sources.

“Every community in New Zealand has different conditions and circumstances that must be taken into account. Many have come up with local innovations and local responses to how fire services are delivered in their area. I expect a number of these will be included in the recommendations I will be taking to Cabinet.

“I am also keen to keep stakeholders involved as we work through the best way to achieve greater coordination and

and the resulting improvements have made the online application experience a lot better.

“I congratulate StudyLink on these improvements and commend the student union for their collaboration and feedback,” says Mrs Goodhew. “Together, we will continue improving the service StudyLink provides to make students’ lives a bit easier.”

integration, and better support for our firefighters. In this regard consultation on this issue will be ongoing,” said Mr Dunne.

The formal submissions received to date will be made available on the Department of Internal Affairs website once they have been analysed.

Mr Dunne will take a paper to Cabinet for decision by the end of the year that encapsulates the main themes identified through this consultation process.

He expects that legislation will be introduced into the House as soon as possible next year. The public will be able to make submissions during the Select Committee process.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 14 August 2015

Young dads need more support

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yawning gap in the level of support provided to first time fathers should not be ignored, says New Zealand First.

“Finnish research released this week highlights the need to address the stress experienced by first time fathers, suggesting it leads to health problems later in life,” says New Zealand First Spokesperson for Social Development, Darroch Ball.

“I was a young father myself at 19 and I have seen and experienced first-hand the lack of resources and support available.

“It’s just common sense to have a more equal focus on young fathers in order for a young family unit to thrive.

“Having a child is a major transition in both parents’ lives but for fathers this transition is almost entirely ignored.

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“As the research points out there is a perception that having a child as a young adult is less disruptive for a man.

In reality, taking on the role of father, partner and breadwinner can cause considerable psychological and economic stress

for young men. “While there were limitations in the research, it reiterated the importance of finding ways to support both parents as they become first time parents.

“It is time the government addressed this gap,” says Mr Ball.

ew Zealand will gain significant economic and social benefits from the formation of the New Zealand Data Futures Partnership, Finance Minister Bill English and Statistics Minister Craig Foss say.

The Partnership, which is an independent group made up of members from the private, NGO, academic and public sectors, will champion the safe collection, use and sharing of government and business data.

“The volume of data held by the public and private sectors is growing exponentially,” Mr English says.

“The Partnership will be a driving force behind the safe use of data to innovate and tackle real world problems like child poverty

and crime.” The Data Futures Partnership is an extension of the New Zealand Data Futures Forum–set up to explore the opportunities, risks and benefits of sharing data.

“We have an opportunity to create more value for New Zealanders by enabling agencies and entities to more effectively use and share their data,” Mr Foss says.

“The Partnership will complement other data initiatives which enable the Government to deliver better services to the public and ensure investment is made where it’s needed most.

“Having a collective voice to guide the safe, productive and trusted use of data is vital.”

Racing Safety Development Fund open for applications

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he next round of applications for the Racing Safety Development Fund opened last week, Racing Minister Nathan Guy has announced.

“The fund supports projects around the country for improving racecourse health and safety standards.

“In the past this has included

improvements for safety running rails, irrigation and drainage, swabbing boxes, and grandstand repairs,” says Mr Guy. “The fund can support projects that improve the health and safety of the racing animals, riders, spectators, and officials.

“Many of these facilities are public places and widely used by the community in rural areas,

outside of racing events as well as at race days.” Two rounds of funding are held each year with a total of $1 million available.

All racing clubs and code bodies may apply for funding.

New Zealand has about 150 active racing clubs and 70 racecourses.

Online applications must be submitted by September 23, 2015.

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Racing Safety Development Fund plans to improve racecourse health and safety standard

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Addressing family violence together to protect families Kanwaljit Bakshi National List MP

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eople should feel safe in their communities, and they should feel safest in their homes with their families. Sadly, for some people, this is not the reality.

Despite crime rates in New Zealand falling to the lowest they’ve been since 1978, family violence is deplorably high.

About half of all homicides in New Zealand are a result of family violence, and we have the fifth-highest rate of child abuse and child death in the OECD.

This is unacceptable. National decided to take action last year with a family violence package, and one year on we are making progress across a range of initiatives, such as working on intensive case management, looking into improving information judges receive about defendants and their histories, and exploring the possibility of establishing a family violence criminal disclosure scheme.

Earlier this year, the Ministerial Group on Family Violence and Sexual Violence commissioned a stocktake of family and sexual violence services across all Government agencies.

The stocktake found that while a lot of good work is being done, there is room for improvement. There is duplication of some services and fragmentation of others.

So we are launching a new work programme to ensure government agencies respond better to family and sexual violence.

The Government spends an estimated $1.4 billion each year responding to family and sexual violence, so we want to make sure we are getting it right and providing the best services we can for families.

We need to take a hard look at the way agencies work together and what improvements can be made to help break the cycle of violence. Laws alone won’t solve

this problem, but they are the cornerstone we can build on.

We have now launched a discussion document which is open to everybody. We want this to be a discussion that goes from the ground up.

The document raises a number of topics for discussion, including establishing a set of standalone family violence offences, ideas about improving the accessibility and effectiveness of protection orders, considering compelling police action in certain circumstances such as requiring mandatory arrest for all breaches of protection orders, and giving more prominence to victim safety in related legislation like the Care of Children Act. To get different results, we have to do things differently.

You can have your say at: https://consultations.justice.govt.nz/ policy/family-violence-law

Trade Deals – read the fine print Happy Indian

Independence Day

Barry Coates Green Party

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ost people think that trade deals are good for business, but that is not always the case.

The government is currently negotiating a controversial trade deal with the US and 10 other countries–the Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement (TPPA)– that is likely to leave many New Zealand businesses worse off, as well harming citizens and undermining our democratic rights.

One reason is that very little of the TPPA is about trade issues like tariffs and quotas. Most of the TPPA is about our domestic laws and regulations, covering issues like patents, copyright, investment laws, State-owned enterprises, government procurement, internet and e-commerce.

Another reason is that the TPPA is in the interests of large multinational companies, not the small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) that make up 97% of the New Zealand economy.

For example, the TPPA is likely to offer multinationals improved access to central government contracts, and potentially also to local government contracts, while restricting preferences for local firms.

This is a problem for many SMEs that rely on public procurement to support their early stages of growth.

Barry Coates Green Party

The TPPA will also extend patents and copyright. This benefits patent and copyright owners (mainly US and Japanese corporations), but it will increase costs for New Zealanders.

The medicine-buying agency PHARMAC has saved $5 billion over the past 12 years from using generic medicines wherever possible, rather than the more expensive patented drugs, but PHARMAC will be forced to buy more expensive drugs in future. Businesses, universities, schools and library will also bear higher costs.

There are other disadvantages.

Developing New Zealand’s future advantage in innovation will be more difficult if patents and copyright are extended. The NZ Institute for IT Professionals describes the US proposals as ‘stifling innovation rather than supporting it”. Copyright rules would require internet service providers to police their customers and make criminals out of people who share files.

The TPPA will also give multinationals the right to take our government to an international tribunal to challenge laws and policies. Under a similar agreement to the TPPA, Phillip Morris is challenging the Australian government’s plain

packaging of cigarettes. These cases can only be initiated by foreign investors, potentially putting domestic companies at a disadvantage, as well as undermining democracy.

Against these potential costs, the gains from trade are likely to be very small. At best, New Zealand will benefit by 0.01% of GDP by 2025 from agriculture, according to the US Department of Agriculture. And it is clear that Canada, the US and Japan will not remove their tariffs on dairy products or eliminate their subsidies. So there is little to gain.

But our government seems to have decided that it will sign the TPPA. Once signed, it cannot then be altered by Parliament and it will be difficult for a future government to exit.

Shockingly, the draft TPPA agreement is secret and we have been forced to rely on leaks for our analysis. The Green Party is calling for a halt to negotiations.

There needs to be an objective analysis of the costs and benefits, public debate and Parliamentary scrutiny. This is an important agreement and our democracy must be respected.

Barry Coates, Green Party list candidate and former Executive Director of Oxfam New Zealand.

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t’s always a meaningful moment when the Prime Minister of India gives his Independence Day speech and raises the saffron, white and green flag.

It recalls that iconic moment in 1947 when the first Prime Minister of India, Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru, raised the flag high above the Lahore Gate of the Red Fort in Delhi in 1947.

That symbolic act remains one of the most memorable in recent world history. Courage, sacrifice, peace, truth, faith and chivalry are some of the values represented by that flag, and they have stood the test of time.

As such, it’s a meaningful month for the Indian community both in New Zealand and around the world: the 69th anniversary of India’s independence.

Our thoughts also turn to next year, when it will be an auspicious 70 years since India’s coming of age. Celebrations for that milestone are already well underway in India and around the world.

The 15th August is also a time to reflect on the non-violent Indian freedom movement, under the stewardship of Mahatma Gandhi.

His work in India continues to

inspire movements for freedom and human rights across the globe.

So much has been achieved in India since those days, and I’m looking forward to joining with you to celebrate the success of the world’s largest democracy.

The next challenge for India will be reducing the discrepancies between rich and poor.

Meanwhile in New Zealand, Indian Independence Day reminds us to reflect on the Indian New Zealand community and its rich contribution to our economic, social and cultural life.

The trade relationship between India and New Zealand continues to flourish as we negotiate towards a Free Trade Agreement that will deliver benefits to both countries.

At the same time, the New Zealand India Research Institute at Victoria University is going from strength to strength, involving nearly 40 academics from five New Zealand universities in research on India and New ZealandIndia relations.

This is a celebration of nationhood for Indians, New Zealanders, and Indian New Zealanders.

Happy Indian Independence Day to us all.

NEW ZEALAND

www.iwk.co.nz | 14 August 2015

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Auckland Council and Property Council welcome housing feasibility report

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uckland Council has welcomed a new report that provides up-to-date information on the feasibility on how many houses could be built under the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan (PAUP) based on current market conditions.

The Auckland Council Development Capacity Model 2015 calculates how many houses the market is likely to build under the PAUP planning controls.

It estimates approximately 64,000 additional dwellings could be developed under today’s market conditions within the Metropolitan Urban Limit (MUL). This excludes Housing New Zealand properties, which could accommodate at least 19,000 additional dwellings. It also excludes development potential outside of the MUL including approximately 20,000 additional dwellings in SHAs (Special Housing Areas). It isn’t a forecast into the future, rather it is up-tothe-minute information based on today’s market in land values and sales prices in different parts of the region. Deputy Mayor Penny Hulse says, “This is an exciting report as it

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shows us a clear snap shot in time of the feasibility of how much housing could be built in Auckland. We now have access to a very useful tool which can help us test the effect of our rules on development potential.

This will assist with sensible decision-making as we finalise the Unitary Plan.”

Property Council chief executive Connal Townsend says “We’re very pleased with the expert group’s report as well as the growth capacity model. We look forward to working collaboratively with Auckland Council and other agencies as we now have a much more realistic idea about how many homes are deliverable under the current plan, and what we need to do to achieve the 400,000 target in the Auckland Plan.”

Over the coming months the Development Capacity Model will be one of the inputs into the PAUP process. It will be a relevant factor to consider when the council reviews the submissions to rezone many thousands of properties across Auckland. The re-zoning hearings are scheduled to take place in March and April 2016.

Central Auckland creative residencies now open

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merging artists, creatives and writers can now spend the summer honing their craft in the leafy inner city suburb of Ponsonby by applying for one of four residencies at Auckland Council’s Studio One Toi Tū.

The recipients of the four summer residencies will receive six months of free studio space at Studio One Toi Tū from November 2015 to April 2016, including 24-hour access to facilities and mentorship to help achieve their project goals.

“The residencies at Studio One Toi Tū offer a great opportunity for our emerging artists, creatives and writers to develop their talent, whatever the discipline,” says Shale Chambers, Chair of the Waitemata Local Board which governs the local arts facility.

“Ponsonby is an inspiring part of the city to work from, especially during the summer months when it is at its peak of vibrancy.

“The suburb is close to some of the city’s largest parks and inspirational locations such as Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki.”

Studio One Toi Tū manager Echo Janman says the residencies

are offered because of the gallery’s commitment to up-andcoming talent.

“There are four residencies available. Applications are open across all creative categories including fine art, creative writing, literature, design, object art, film making and fashion. We are open to any creative discipline, as long there is a sound idea behind your proposal.

“The application process involves a simple form that you fill in online, where you tell us your idea, what you wish to do during the residency, and outline your creative background”.

“Each successful resident will have access to resources, networking opportunities and mentorship from professionals

associated with their field. It will be an inspiring and exciting six months for four lucky creatives.”

The inaugural Studio One Toi Tū summer residencies are open now for applications. To apply, send a proposal outlining the work or project you wish to pursue throughout the residency to Smarty Grants at https:// aucklandcouncil.smartygrants. com.au (please note that applicants must be residents of NZ). Applications close 10 p.m. on October 1, 2015.

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India To Host 14 Pacific Leaders

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fter trying to keep pace with China in relations with Africa and Central Asia, India is now trying to match it neighbour’s growing footprint in the South Pacific.

On August 21, India will host the heads of 14 island nations at the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), in what is seen as a first step towards greater engagement with the region, which is important from an economic and geostrategic standpoint.

The upcoming summit in Jaipur is expected to pave the way for agreements in agriculture, food processing, fisheries, solar energy, e-networks for coordination in telemedicine and tele-education, space cooperation and climate change, all of which were mentioned as areas of potential

forging bilateral and regional ties with these island nations, China has significantly expanded its foothold in the region, from increasing business and trade ties to setting up diplomatic missions in each of these countries.

T.P. Sreenivasan, a former diplomat who served as the head of Mission in Fiji and seven other South Pacific Island States between 1986 and 1989, told The Hindu that India’s strong relations with Fiji, which has considerable influence in the region, was a “strong point” which could help counter the growing Chinese influence.

“Most of the economies in the region are based on agriculture, fisheries and small-scale industries and India’s capacity in these sectors is even better than Europe and China; it can cultivate relations with the island nations based on its technology.

“Even small investments will make a big impact in these regions; many of these countries send their nationals to India for education though programmes sponsored by the Indian Council of Cultural Relations; so India should make a beginning,” he said.

He said relations with Fiji had improved in India’s favour in the past decade and not only those of Indian origin but also Fijians were friendly towards Indians, which worked to New Delhi’s “advantage”.

2018 FIFA World Cup playoffs.

Fiji has been lined up to take on the Asian sides before it plays in he Vodafone Fijian national as Singapore, India, Malaysia and the Oceania Football Confederation Pacific Nations Cup (PNC) in May football teams will be Sri Lanka next year. playing against teams such This is in preparation for the 2016. The PNC is part of the Oceania Football Confederation playoffs for the 2018 World Cup. Fiji Football Association (Fiji FA) vicep r e s i d e n t and national team director Tarunesh Reddy revealed the plan.

“We are arranging for three tours each for the national teams preparing for the World

Cup playoffs and the Under-23 team to the Rio Olympics in Brazil next year,” Reddy said.

Out of the four, Singapore is considered the best team in the FIFA ranking at 155, followed by India at 156, Malaysia at 168 and Sri Lanka at 182. Fiji is ranked lower then all four teams at 198. Reddy has also raised the possibility of buildup matches against teams from the Americas and Europe.

“We are doing everything to ensure that our national and U23 sides prepare well by playing a couple of build-up matches,” Reddy said.

“A total of six tours have been looked upon at this stage as we prepare for the two important assignments next year.”

The PNC is scheduled for May next year while the Olympic Games are in August.

cooperation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Fiji in 2014.

Mr Modi had then proposed that FIPIC summits be held regularly.

He had set the ball rolling for reinforcing ties with the island nations by announcing visa on arrival for their nationals, funds for small business, line of credit for a co-generation power plant for Fiji, and a special adaptation fund for technical assistance and capacity building for countering global warming. Even as New Delhi has begun charting out a plan for

Asia tour plan

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Fiji to back India’s United Nations bid

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iji will support India in its bid to become a Permanent Member of the United Nations Security Council.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama made the statement during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Albert Park Redevelopment Project in Suva.

“India is the world’s biggest democracy and an emerging power that deserves a bigger role in global affairs. Which is why Fiji intends to support India in its bid to become a Permanent Member of the UN Security Council,” the PM said.

He said one of the recent famous faces to have gazed out over Albert Park was that of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who paid Fijians a great compliment last November when he visited not only Fiji, but Suva as well.

“I also found Prime Minister Modi to be great company. And the ‘selfie’ I took of us on the lawns of the GPH was re-tweeted by him and seen by many millions in India and around the world,” Mr Bainimarama said.

India’s High Commissioner to Fiji Gitesh Sarma expressed his delight at the announcement.

“We are absolutely delighted with the announcement by Mr Bainimarama,” he said.

“It is indicative of the special relationship between Fiji and India and the highest level of understanding between Mr Bainimarama and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi.”

He said this paved the way for a great relationship between India and Fiji and the country and the region would greatly benefit with this.

NZ admits Fijian produce suspension inappropriate

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ur Government said the New Zealand Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) has acknowledged to Fijian authorities that its broad suspension of agricultural imports from Fiji is inappropriate.

They also stated the move was out of step with the Bilateral Quarantine Agreement (BQA) and international standards.

Therefore, the Ministry of Primary Industries New Zealand has asked to meet with Fijian officials to resolve the issue.

In a letter to the New Zealand MPI, the Fijian Government had objected to the suspension of trade of the four affected commodities: eggplants, breadfruit, mangoes and papaya. In response, the NZ MPI has agreed that there have been no documented cases of a fruit fly outbreak caused by Fijian products. Additionally, the Chief Technical Officer at the Ministry of Primary Industries, Stephen Butcher, News source: Fiji Sun

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has requested a meeting with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism and the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji.

The request was relayed to the Fijian Government by the New Zealand High Commission. Attorney-General and Acting Prime Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, confirming this, said the meeting will be held in Fiji this week, and Fiji will make a formal request for the suspension to be lifted.

“We are pleased that the NZ authorities have moved quickly and want to work with us to bring this matter to an end,” he said.

“Given Fiji’s stringent adherence to international bio-security standards for both imports and exports, we have every reason to believe this matter will be settled quickly.

“And that the suspended Fijian produce will be once again on its way to New Zealand.”

FIJI

www.iwk.co.nz | 14 August 2015

Embrace new, better Fiji

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rime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said he was sorry so many Fijians had to leave their homes in Fiji amidst the terrible aftermath of the events of 1987 and 2000.

He appealed to Fijians in Canada to now embrace and support the new and better Fiji he and his Government are building.

Speaking at the Fiji Day celebrations in Canada, Mr Bainimarama reached out to those who left and said: “I know that many of you simply lost faith in Fiji–lost hope –in particular, in the terrible

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aftermath of the events of 1987 and 2000. That you were made to feel unwelcome in your country of birth is the most shameful episode in our nation’s history. The anguish and despair that drove you from Fiji to find new homes in Canada can only be imagined.

“Yet it wasn’t just the brain drain – tragic as that was. It was the Fijian family torn apart. And today I want to say sorry to those of you who suffered. Who were made to feel like strangers in your own country. Who were obliged to seek new homes elsewhere.

Leaving loved ones and friends

behind.” Mr Bainimarama said the manner in which Fijians prospered in Canada after leaving Fiji following 1987 and 2000 was a triumph of the Fijian spirit.

“Today, I want to use this occasion to formally welcome you back into the Fijian family,” he said. “To invite you to return. To perhaps again build a house in Fiji.

To invest in your country of birth.

To help us build the new Fiji. To fulfil its promise. Its destiny.

“The time to do so has never been better. We are experiencing the longest period of economic expansion in our history since Independence.” He said that one

of his biggest achievements since taking office has been to forge a common identity for everyone.

“Friends, what does it mean to be Fijian? I’ve thought a lot about this and let me tell some of the conclusions I’ve reached. It means that you belong to Fiji and, most importantly, feel you belong.

“Whether it comes from being born there or being naturalised.

“It used to be that only indigenous Fijians could call themselves Fijian.

“In fact, some of my political opponents still say the term belongs to them. But this makes no sense at all,” he said.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama

News source: Fiji Sun

NEWS in BRIEF NZ-funded training for Water Authority

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total of 150 Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) employees are set to benefit from the second round of New Zealand government-funded training modules.

Conducted by trainers from Opus Environment Training Centre, the first of the three training modules saw WAF employees training in two areas of expertise.

This included Drinking Water Treatment training with trainer Sarah Cresswell at Waila Water Treatment plant, while the Wastewater Treatment Training, held at the Kinoya Wastewater Treatment Plant, was carried out by trainer Ian Goulding.

Eighteen WAF staff members attended each training module. The competencybased modules are comprised of both practical and theory classes, followed by an examination.

The second round of training modules is planned for September next month.

WAF chief executive officer, Opetaia Ravai, said the Authority greatly appreciated the New Zealand government’s grant of more than $800,000 to support and enhance the ongoing WAF capacity–building programme.

Training for Parliament Secretariat staff

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he former deputy clerk of New Zealand Parliament, Debra Angus will be in Suva this week to run a two-day training course for Fiji Parliament Secretariat staff.

A statement from Parliament said the training session will be facilitated by the UNDP Fiji Parliament Support Project that is funded by the European Union and the governments of New Zealand, Australia and Japan.

Fiji Parliament secretary general Viniana Namosimalua said she was delighted Debra Angus will be in Suva to provide training for the Parliament Secretariat staff.

“Delegations from the Fiji Parliament who have visited the New Zealand Parliament have seen her hard at work serving the New Zealand Parliament and its Members,” she said.

www.ecotravels.co.nz

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Accredited Agent

Thought of the week For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.

— Nelson Mandela

Editorial

Anything but funny

From the desk of the Managing Editor Where the mind is without fear and the head is held high Where knowledge is free Where the world has not been broken up into fragments By narrow domestic walls Where words come out from the depth of truth Where tireless striving stretches its arms towards perfection Where the clear stream of reason has not lost its way Into the dreary desert sand of dead habit Where the mind is led forward by thee Into ever-widening thought and action Into that heaven of freedom, my Father, let my country awake Beautiful words from Tagore on his deep wish for India’s Independence, a wish that every Indian carried in their heart and struggled day in and day out. A wish that cost many their lives. A dream that was held by a whole nation until the midnight of August 14, 1947—when the world slept and India woke up to life and freedom.

Now 69 years later, we can hold our head high and be proud of being an Indian.

With India emerging as a strong world leader and Indians across the world making their mark, let us not for a moment forget the sacrifices of those who came before us, so we may see these times.

Making headlines is another Indian—Sundar Pichai who has been named the CEO of the newly restructured Google, now being called Alphabet. It was interesting to note that this step up the ladder puts Pichai right into the league of two other extraordinary Indian CEOs—Satya Nadella of Microsoft and Rajiv Suri of Nokia. If we looked at the total revenue churned out in 2014 by the units headed directly by these three, we get a figure of US$159.6 billion. It is even more interesting to note that the combined revenue of these three brands exceeds the gross domestic product of some 140 countries in the world. Such is the stuff we Indians are made of.

It is the time when we Indians should wake up to the potential inherent in us and claim our rightful places in the world.

It’s a wonderful occasion every year when all Indians come together to celebrate our Independence Day. There are several celebrations around the country and I hope our readers are getting together with friends and family to celebrate this day. We have had a stream of Independence Day messages that we have received from our readers.

We have endeavoured to share as many as we could. We are also fortunate to have received messages from our political leaders including the Prime Minister.

On behalf of the entire Indian Weekender team, I would like to wish all our readers a very happy Independence Day. Let us keep the flame of the spirit of our awesome country burning in our hearts. Let us honour all our freedom fighters and the fallen soldiers, by achieving all our dreams and becoming the reason for India to be proud of us. Stay safe and enjoy your day.

Jai Hind!

Pick of the week The stunning projection of Goddess Kali on the Empire State Building in New York city to highlight the dangers of pollution and extinction and that Mother Nature needs a fierce avatar now more than ever. Courtesy Andrew Jones Facebook page

Giri Gupta

Indian Weekender : Volume 7 Issue 21 Publisher: Kiwi Media Group Limited Managing Editor: Giri Gupta | girigupta@xtra.co.nz Editor: Annu Sharma | editor@indianweekender.co.nz Chief Reporter: Swati Sharma | reporter@indianweekender.co.nz Reporter: Rizwan Mohammad | iwk.rizwan@gmail.com Reporter: Esha Chanda | iwk.eshac@gmail.com Reporter: Kumar Suresh | iwk.kumar@gmail.com Columnist: Paula Ray | paula@indianweekender.co.nz Chief Technical Officer: Rohan Desouza | rohan@indianweekender.co.nz Senior Graphic & Layout Designer: Mahesh Kumar | mahesh@indianweekender.co.nz Graphic Designer: Yashmin Chand | designer@indianweekender.co.nz Accounts and Admin.: Farah Khan | accounts@indianweekender.co.nz Sales and Marketing: 021 1507950 / 09-2137335 | sales@indianweekender.co.nz Views expressed in the publication are not necessarily of the publisher and the publisher is not responsible for advertisers’ claims as appearing in the publication Views expressed in the articles are solely of the authors and do not in any way represent the views of the team at the Indian Weekender Indian Weekender is published by Kiwi Media Group, 98 Great South Road, Auckland Printed at Horton Media, Auckland Copyright 2015. Kiwi Media Group. All Rights Reserved.

Waka

Pronounced: wa-ka | Meaning: Boat Usage: The ancestors travelled by waka from Rarotonga to Aotearoa.

Tip from the trenches Looking for free stuff? Try FreeCycle.org It is a site similar to Craigslist except it is people giving stuff away for free that they don’t need!

OPINION / EDITORIAL

www.iwk.co.nz | 14 August 2015

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Adopt a living to express; not to impress

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We want to voice what affects us; we want to be heard. This is our platform to stand united against all odds. ¡¡Paula Ray

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fter contemplating for almost six years, last weekend I finally had an opportunity to visit a gurudwara (Sikh temple) in Auckland. The facade of the building was as unassuming as a corner store or a residential structure.

But once inside, you spot a crowd quite big

by Kiwi standards, gathered to offer prayers and also felicitate child achievers on the occasion of the gurudwara’s anniversary.

All three Kiwi-Indian members of Parliament - who happen to adhere to Sikhism - attended the event and handed over accolades to the deserving. Each acceptance was echoed with a Sat Sri Akal or Jo Bole So Nihaal. The chorus of voices lend the atmosphere a festive fervour to an otherwise ordinary Sunday morning.

Later in the day, I had a taste of the langar food – quite literally and figuratively.

The spontaneity and energy with which the food was prepared in a communal kitchen and served enthused a feeling of oneness; the longing to belong to a community.

I have often heard Indians, who do not abide by the Punjabi way of life or even Sikhism, complain that Indian culture has been usurped by Punjabi culture. To the outside world, Indian music signifies Bhangra and Indian dance is Bhangra or Dandiya. The most popular Bollywood songs played at nightclubs in New Zealand include the ones with heavy Bhangra beats. Popular Indian fashion in the international market is also dominated by Punjabi influences.

At the Auckland Diwali Festival, which is the biggest showcase of Indian culture

In this column, I share my experiences that would perhaps be familiar to you too.

If you can relate to them, please share your thoughts or similar experiences. in the city, the most popular activities and performances are Bhangra or Punjabibased. Indians who attend the festival, and are not part of the Punjabi culture, never fail to point out that India is way bigger than Punjab and the culture of the land is truly diverse. Punjab is only a tiny part of it.

Similarly, during the nine days of Navratri, Auckland buzzes with Dandiya performances – the clothes, the music and the dance moves derived from another northern Indian state, namely Gujarat.

The same group of Indians, who do not belong to either Punjab or Gujarat, have similar views on Gujarati culture usurping and monopolising the diversity of Hindu festivals in India. If you consider the Indian dishes that are most widely known outside of the country, you will find that the majority belong to either Punjab or Gujarat.

Take a look at your nearby Indian grocery store or restaurant/ takeaway to confirm

this claim.

Instead of accusing the Punjabis and Gujaratis of imposing regional cultural imperialism on India, have you ever stopped to wonder how this could have come about?

Have you ever tried to understand how these two cultures have made their presence felt in every corner of the globe?

It is perhaps because people from these two states have stuck to their communities like super-glue wherever they have travelled to in the world. Both within and beyond the home country, they have believed in upholding their culture proudly and sharing their values and rituals beyond the boundaries of their belief.

In other words, these communities have pimped their cause; promoted their presence through colourful and attractive cultural expressions. It is not surprising

then that they got noticed wherever they went to, beyond their dedication to their professions. Yes, these two communities are also reputed for their perseverance and ability to succeed professionally against all odds.

Perhaps there are more such communities in India with similar capabilities to achieve in life. But their recognition has been limited, especially as immigrant communities.

It is time we learned a lesson from the communities that have succeeded, instead of being critical of their efforts. We need to recognise that there is no evil in promoting your cause, as long as it is positive and does not harm another.

So, how do you plan to blow your trumpet?

India: From core to periphery—a journey of hope ¡¡Sandeep Singh

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here are many who may claim that India is an idea, a notion, even an enigma and for some, the notion of India as a civilisation predates the idea of India as a state, but on every August 15 we celebrate India as a state. It was on August 15, 1947 that a long struggle by millions of Indians for their emancipation from every aspect of colonial rule culminated and simultaneously commenced a seemingly unending spirit of hope for them, and their generations to come. The hope was about independence, and their ability to grow upto their full potential. This article aims to celebrate this unalloyed sense of hope about the idea of India that has traversed a long journey since its independence.

Now when the world is busy in celebrating the sense of hope that India generates in global politics in terms of potentially playing a leading role, this article will focus on the sense of hope that India generates for its own people. The focus is on celebrating the spirit of hope that is being generated by gradual decentralisation of power from core to periphery. For long, India, like any other society in world, has experienced centralization in every aspect of its social life, say politics, economy, development, public resources, and culture and intellectual resources, which constituted its core. Those at periphery were left most of the times to seek inspiration from the centre (core) within this idea of India.

Since early 1990’s, which coincided with the end of the Cold War globally, beginning of economic reforms at home, and advent of globalization internationally, this trend has changed. Today’s India, more than ever is witnessing an unprecedented decentralisation, which is being reflected in three important aspects of their national life considered in this article—politics, cricket, and urban cities—all of which contributes in the idea of today’s India. Today’s India cannot be understood without the indomitable spirit of their cities, cricket, and politics.

What constitutes to their indomitable spirit, in part, is the fact of availability of immense new opportunities for those at the periphery.

Cities are often considered as crucibles of innovation, ideas, and wealth generation, and act as beacons of hope for people living away at the periphery. For long, India’s hope has been fixated on its four major

metropolitan cities which can be considered to previously constitute the core of India’s economic activity. These four metropolitan cities contributed majorly in creating businesses, generating employment, and hence opportunity for social empowerment.

This trend is changing, and is possibly changing irreversibly. The change is reflected in emergence of several smaller towns and cities across the nation which are not only attracting global capital, foreign technology, and generating employment, but are also acting as new epicentre of hope for the people of India.

Cricket in India has been elevated to a level of national activity that not only unites Indian people across their linguistic, ethnic, and cultural boundaries, but it has become an activity that generates hope for its millions of practitioner and followers across the country. The trend of decentralisation of power and opportunities from core to periphery is nowhere better reflected than in the game of cricket. The arrival of corporate money in the game of cricket in India’s post economic liberalisation of 1990s has transformed the nature of sport.

It has also liberated the game of cricket from clutches of big cities and metro and taken it into the realm of small towns and urban centres. The story of success of MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, and Zaheer Khan among others in the cricketing world is a manifestation of realisation of hitherto untapped potential

lying hidden in smaller towns and urban centres of India. The game of cricket in India is a true reflection of changing times within India, which celebrates the bridging of gaps between the core and periphery and hence generating hope for those at the periphery.

The discussion about this process of decentralisation and its accompanied sense of hope in today’s India will be incomplete without discussing the emerging change in its polity. One important aspect of Indian polity that is changing in today’s India and deserves an unqualified appreciation from all spectrums within Indian politics, is the decentralization of composition of its political elites. In this regard mention of two important Indian political leaders—late President APJ Abdul Kalam and current Prime Minister Narendra Modi —would suffice to the point being made here. The rise of these two leaders from a distant periphery to the highest position of Indian state at the centre is an obvious manifestation of fast eroding gaps between centre and periphery in today’s India. Such a democratic elevation of individuals from periphery is not only a reflection of strength of democratic process in India but also represents the spirit of hope manifested in the idea of India. On this August 15, we should aim to celebrate this positive change in today’s India and the daunting spirit of hope that flows within this notion, this idea, this essence of India.

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14 August 2015 | www.iwk.co.nz

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Naga accord: a test for Modi’s policies ¡¡Ninglun Hanghal

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any would argue there is nothing “new” or “historic” in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s August 3 announcement of the “Naga Peace Accord”. Indeed there is none. The only available media Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the signing ceremony of historic peace accord between Government statement said details of the accord of India and NSCN, in New Delhi on August 3 framework and its execution will be released in the days to come. absence of the outfit’s chairman unlike other occasion when the But there is something very Isaac Swu, who is undergoing peace talk reaches a certain point, treatment due to illness. such as in 2001, when Manipur unique–Modi’s way of doing As usual at his best public literally burned. things. His strategy, execution speaking, Modi delivered a In fact, much as the Naga and, most of all, his ability to read diplomatic and impressive speech. peace talk had been complex people’s minds and effectively There were pointers in between and complicated (the process is using the media (particularly the lines. He touched upon issues more than 15 years old now, and TV) to his full advantage. He that were core to the hearts and doesn’t seem to be over as yet); it effortlessly manages to soothe the minds of the Nagas–their way would be too early to comment. ego of the leaders of the NSCN-IM of life.

From the official speech of Muivah to (almost) perfection–the photoHe talked of the larger picture who is the NSCN-IM signatory op, the protocol. With the whole of socio-economic development to the “framework agreement”, country glued on to the screen, it of northeast India and beyond, it is clear that he is not yet done, which made his speech acceptable was perfect. an indication that the NSCN-IM The Naga traditional shawl, to all, particularly the non-Nagas which Modi consciously did not and the general Indian public. shouldn’t be written off so soon.

Not directly facing the remove all through the public Perhaps due to the long drawn camera, Muivah repeated a very exhaustive “peace process” show, was a value addition.

The grey dot in the show, though, between the National Socialist similar sentence that has been would be the pretentious smile of Council of Nagaland (IM faction) used since past years that an Th Muivah, general secretary of and the Indian government, that honourable peaceful political the NSCN-IM and a stammering has more or less led to fatigue, the solution is yet to be worked on pronouncing “Narendra August 3 announcement didn’t or out. An attempt to convey a Modi”. And of course the rather could not stir much ripples, message that “this is not the end”.

Although there is disquiet or no major knee-jerk reactions, be it in Naga areas or other parts of northeast India, there was curiosity, jitter and anxiety.

The process leading up to the announcement was done in utmost secrecy where many even within the NSCN-IM, the civil society in Nagaland and other north-eastern states were taken by surprise.

While the framework agreement –as in terms of taking to a new level–deserves an applause, it is pertinent to keep in mind the larger public, especially the Nagas who have the right to be informed about what is going to affect them.

If they are kept in the dark, it would be a grave mistake on the part of the Naga leadership and New Delhi.

Certainly there would be negotiations and compromise on various “points” as in many other peace agreements across the world. All said and done, peace is not given or taken. It is not something that can be achieved by signing a document. It comes from the genuine desire of the people, the key stakeholder, the civil society and the government.

As many had mentioned and

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re-called the 1986 Mizo Peace accord - in an attempt to draw parallels and comparisons, it is important to also remember that it was not the accord per se that brought peace to Mizoram, but the aftermath of the signing of the accord, wherein the people, the collective leadership, the civil bodies and government practiced “peace” in spirit and deed.

As far as the August 3 “historic” announcement of the Naga accord is concerned, there is no doubt some progress had been made.

The secrecy could be yet another tactic and strategy

by Prime Minister Modi, who is reportedly monitoring the process since taking power.

A nationalist, Modi’s readiness to solve the issue does not call for any doubt. His larger vision of India as an emerging leader in South Asia vis-a-vis northeast India cannot be missed.

And it is hoped that all this was done in an attempt to make progress and development which the northeast region desperately needs. Modi’s understanding of the general picture of northeast India at large and the Naga psyche is visibly noteworthy.

INDIA

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Three-day I-Day celebrations in Delhi

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here will have a three-day celebrations in the national to mark India’s 69th Independence Day with bands performing and cultural programmes taking place.

The “Swaraj Parv” will begin on the eve of August 15, with tributes being paid to martyrs by Lt. Governor Najeeb Jung.

“The government of Delhi has decided to celebrate this Independence Day with the people. The Swaraj Parv will be celebrated at Delhi’s Central Park in Conaught Place,” said Delhi Tourism Minister Kapil Mishra.

A total of 12 contemporary music bands will perform at the Central Park

in Connaught Place on August 15.

Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal will address the people at 6.30 p.m.

Children living in slums will also perform.

Qawwali performances, musical drama and poetry meet will also be feature in the carnival.

The festival will end with a tribute to former late president A.P.J. Abdul Kalam with an evening of Urdu poetry titled “Shaam-e-Kalaam”.

“This is also a new beginning to make Delhi as a hub of art and culture. More such big events will be held in Delhi,” he added.

No invitation cards would be required to attend these programmes, he said.

Kochi is India’s first city to become world tourism body member

11 killed, 50 injured in Jharkhand stampede

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ochi has become the first city in India to be enrolled as a member of Beijing-based World Tourism Cities Federation (WTCF) Council.

Kochi Mayor Tony Chammany handed over the membership acceptance document to China’s Ambassador to India Le Yucheng in the presence of Chief Minister Oommen Chandy at a function held in Kochi, Kerela this week.

The WTCF is a non-profit, nongovernmental international organisation voluntarily formed by tourism cities and organisations from around the world.

On the occasion, the Chinese ambassador said his country and Kerala need to explore the possibilities for partnerships in culture, sports and tourism as there were many striking similarities between the two regions like cuisine, martial arts and snake and dragon boat races.

He also expressed interest in bringing investment from China to Kerala’s tourism sector especially for construction of an entertainment city and an oceanarium.

The ambassador also urged the government to convene a meeting of tour operators of both the countries while agreeing to support Kerala’s efforts to increase inflow of Chinese tourists to the state.

He also responded positively to Kerala’s request to facilitate chartered flights from China to Kerala.

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t least 11 people were killed and 50 others injured in a stampede at a temple in Jharkhand state’s Deoghar town on Monday, August 10.

While the Jharkhand High Court took suo motu cognizance of the stampede, the state government suspended four officials including the district deputy commissioner and police superintendent.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh condoled the deaths.

More than 100,000 people were in a queue, many of them waiting since Sunday night to get into the famous Baidyanath temple, when the stampede took place.

During the Shravan month of the Hindu calendar, more than 30 lakh people offer prayers at the temple.

On Mondays, the number goes up substantially up to two lakh.

Modi said he was “pained”.

“Pained at loss of lives due to the stampede in Jharkhand. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased in this hour of grief. I pray that the injured recover quickly.

“I spoke to Chief Minister Raghubar Das on the incident,” he tweeted.

The stampede took place less than a month after a stampede in Rajahmundry in Andhra Pradesh.

“At least 27 pilgrims were killed and over 60 injured on July 14 in the stampede at the start of the Godavari Maha Pushkaralu– the Kumbh Mela of the south.

The Jharkhand government announced a compensation of Rs.2 lakh each to the kin of victims and Rs.50,000 to injured, an official said.

Meanwhile, the state government suspended four officials including the Deoghar deputy commissioner and police superintendent after the stampede.

A high-level probe team headed by Pandey visited Deoghar, took stock of the situation, and submitted a report to the government.

Based on the report, the four officials were suspended.

The government appointed a special deputy commissioner and a superintendent of police for Deoghar district for the Shravan month.

India expected to have stable growth: OECD

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he OECD, the Paris-based think tank of developed economies, this week said it expected India’s growth to be stable, even as it forecast a slowing of the Chinese economy.

“Stable growth momentum is expected in Germany, Japan and India.

The CLI (composite leading indicators) for Russia also points to stable growth momentum albeit below long term trend,” the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) said in a statement.

“In Brazil and China, CLIs point more strongly than last month to a loss in growth moment,” it said.

The latest prediction by OECD comes against the backdrop of a host of institutions, notably the World Bank and the IMF foreseeing India to overtake China in growth this fiscal.

The Indian economy grew at 7.3 per cent in 2014-15, making it the fastest growing large economy in the world.

At its monetary policy review last week, the Reserve Bank of India retained the country’s growth forecast at 7.6 per cent for the current fiscal.

In June, the OECD had pegged India’s growth at 7.3 per cent for this year on the back of a revival in investments.

In April when India’s credit rating outlook was upgraded to “positive” by Moody’s, the OECD had said the Indian economic expansion continued to firm up even as growth eased in China.

“CLIs signal growth easing in China and Canada, albeit from relatively high levels.

In Brazil and Russia, CLIs point to a loss in growth momentum while in India, the CLI continues to indicate firming growth,” the think tank said.

CLIs are designed to anticipate turning points in economic activity relative to trends.

India’s CLI has been on the rise since October 2014 and touched 99.5 in February this year.

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Air India monetises property worth Rs.90 crore (NZD 21m)

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he government of India has reported that the national passenger carrier Air India has so far managed to earn Rs.90.24 crore (approx. NZD 21m) by monetising its unused properties in the current fiscal.

Minister of State for Civil Aviation Mahesh Sharma informed the Lok Sabha during the question hour that Air India had during 2014-15 earned Rs. 35.97 crore (approx. NZD 8.5m) by monetising some of its properties which were lying vacant.

“Monetising such properties by way of

sale/rent or to develop as a joint venture, to raise non-operating revenue, would help the company to retire its huge debts,” Sharma said. According to Sharma, the government has received proposals for

monetisation of Air India properties turnaround and a financial restructuring such as commercial and residential plots plan worth Rs.30,000, which was passed in in Coimbatore, Chennai and Mumbai. April, 2012.

Sharma pointed-out that the proposals Under the plan­ , the company is for monetisation of Air India properties required to monetise its assets to is awaiting cabinet’s approval. generate Rs.5,000 crore over a period “Air India has approached income and of 10 years to repay part of its huge debt. service tax departments, State Bank of The plan also envisions the airline to India for leasing space in its office building get Rs.7,400 crore by issue of nonat Nariman Point, Mumbai,” he said. convertible debentures (NCDs) to banks, The national passenger carrier has an LIC (Life Insurance Corporation of accumulated debt of around Rs. 40,000 crore. India) and employees provident fund The monetisation of assets is a part of a organisation (EPFO).

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Sundar Pichai heads Google in restructured Alphabet ¡¡Arun Kumar

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hennai born, IIT Kharagpureducated Sundar Pichai became the CEO of the core business of Google as the search giant in a major corporate restructuring formed an umbrella company called Alphabet.

With the change entrusting Pichai, 43, with operational management of Google’s search, YouTube and financial-services units, the company’s founders Sergey Brin and Larry Page will run Alphabet-Page as CEO and Brin as president.

Several other companies will operate under Alphabet acting as the parent holding company, including Google, a company focused on health efforts called Life Sciences, and a company focused on longevity called Calico.

Pichai who holds an MS from Stanford University and an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, has worked at Google founded in 1998 since it went public in 2004, most recently as the senior vice president of product.

He is the second person of Indian origin to head a major IT company after Hyderabad-born Satya Nadella who became CEO of software giant Microsoft in February 2014, succeeding Steve Ballmer.

Google CEO, Sunder Pichai

“This new structure will allow us to keep tremendous focus on the extraordinary opportunities we have inside of Google,” said Google chief executive Page in a blog post titled “G is for Google” this week.

“A key part of this is Sundar Pichai,” he said. “Sundar has been saying the things I would have said (and sometimes better!) for quite some time now, and I’ve been tremendously enjoying our work together.”

“He has really stepped up since October of last year, when he took on product and engineering responsibility for our internet businesses,” Page wrote.

“Sergey and I have been super excited about his progress and dedication to the company. And it is clear to us and our board that it is time for Sundar to be CEO of Google,” he said.

“I feel very fortunate to have someone as talented as he is to run the slightly slimmed down Google and this frees up time for me to continue to scale our aspirations.

“I have been spending quite a bit of time with Sundar, helping him and the company in any way I can, and I will of course continue to do that,” Page wrote.

“Google itself is also making all sorts of new products, and I know Sundar will always be focused on innovation-continuing to stretch boundaries.

“I know he deeply cares that we can continue to make big strides on our core mission to organize the world’s information,” Page wrote.

“Recent launches like Google Photos and Google Now using machine learning

Indians in UAE gear up for Modi’s visit

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housands of Indian expatriates in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are planning a grand public reception for Prime Minister Narendra Modi who will be on a two-day official visit in Dubai this month, a media report said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is to visit the UAE on August 1617, in the first visit by an Indian prime minister to the Gulf nation in 34 years. “The news has brought together thousands of Indians from different walks of life. Several Indian associations have volunteered to participate in the organisational work. Indians have responded in huge numbers already,” B.R. Shetty, chairman of NMC Health Care, one of the largest private healthcare providers in the UAE,

was quoted as saying in Gulf News.

There are nearly 2.6 Indians in the UAE – the highest among all expat communities there.

An organising committee called “Namo” has been formed in Dubai to oversee various arrangements to be made for the public reception for Modi at the Dubai Cricket Association (DCA) stadium on August 17, the report added.

Although no entry fee will be charged for the audience, people need to log on to www.namoindubai.ae, to register themselves for the event.

“This is important so that we get an idea of the numbers and also on account of the security arrangements,” K.Kumar, convener of the Indian Community Welfare Committee (ICWC) in Dubai, was quoted as saying.

Modi’s visit is widely seen as an acknowledgement of the Indian community’s achievements and contributionsinthispartoftheworld.

“After 34 years, an Indian prime minister is making this effort and it is widely appreciated by the Indian diaspora,” said Ram Buxani, president of the ITL group and one of the members of the organising committee. Incidentally, Buxani was also a member of the organising committee three decades ago when former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’ visited the UAE in 1981. Modi will arrive in Abu Dhabi on August 16 and will visit Dubai the next day.

The visit is expected to further boost the economic, cultural and social ties between India and the Arab country.

at ‘Parvasi Awards’ organised by the Parvasi Media Group.

The Parvasi Media Group established in 2005 to honour the accomplishments of successful Punjabi Canadians in various fields.

“The Indo-Canadian community has thrived in so many professions and it’s

humbling to be acknowledged in the field of journalism,” Batra was quoted as saying by Toronto Sun. Batra served as a lieutenant in the Canadian armed forces before joining the Toronto Sun in 2011.

Former Indian athlete Milkha Singh was the guest of honour at the ‘Parvasi Awards’.

Indian-origin journalist honoured in Canada

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n Indo-Canadian journalist has been felicitated Ottawa by the community members for her outstanding achievements in the media.

Adrienne Batra, Toronto Sun newspaper’s editor-in-chief, received the “Best Journalist Award”

are amazing progress. Google also has some services that are run with their own identity, like YouTube,” he noted.

Google will continue to focus on Internet products. Android, YouTube, search and ads will remain part of Google Inc. Other departments spinning off into their own sub-companies include research focused Life Sciences (Google contact lenses), the Google X lab (driverless cars, Google Glass, drone delivery), and Calico (increasing longevity).

Google Ventures and Google Capital will also become independent Alphabet companies.

The Alphabet companies will retain their current leadership. Nest will be led by Tony Fadell, Sidewalk Labs by Dan Doctoroff, and Calico by Arthur Levinson. YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki will now report to Pichai.

Brin will continue to head up Google X in addition to his role as president of Alphabet.

Eric Schmidt will become Alphabet’s executive chairman.

“We are not intending for this to be a big consumer brand with related products-the whole point is that Alphabet companies should have independence and develop their own brands,” said Page.

Atul Keshap confirmed as US envoy to Sri Lanka, Maldives

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ndian-American Atul Keshap has been confirmed as ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, making him the second person of Indian decent to be posted to the region after Richard Rahul Verma, the US ambassador to India.

Currently working as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State in the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, a position he has held since 2013, Keshap, 44, was confirmed by the Senate last week for his first ambassadorial posting.

In his current role, Keshap works closely with Assistant Secretary of State Nisha Biswal, the first Indian-American to lead the bureau, “to coordinate US government policy toward India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, the Maldives and Bhutan”.

Now with Keshap’s confirmation, Indian Americans would be serving as US envoys in three of eight SAARC nations.

Another Indian American, Puneet Talwar, as the assistant secretary for political-military affairs, serves as a bridge between the State and Defence departments.

And Arun Madhavan Kumar, as assistant secretary of commerce and director general of the US and Foreign

Atul Keshap

Commercial Service, is charged with boosting US trade abroad.

Keshap’s father, Keshap Chander Sen, who hailed from Punjab, was working as a UN development economist in Nigeria when Atul was born there on June 29, 1971.

His mother, Zoe Calvert, a US Foreign Service official, met and married Sen in London. Keshap was one of four children who grew up in Lesotho, Zambia, Afghanistan and Austria.

Keshap previously served at the State Department as a US senior official for the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation in the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs from 2012 to 2013.

From 2010 to 2012, he was the Director for India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan and the Maldives in the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs.

SPORTS

www.iwk.co.nz | 14 August 2015

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Australia experience to help India in Lanka: Sourav Ganguly ¡¡Sandip Sikdar

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ormer India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly believes the experience of the Australia tour last winter will have matured and helped the likes of Virat Kohli, Murali Vijay and others for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka will host India to play three Tests from August 12 to September 1.

While the first match will be held at Galle, the last two will be played in Colombo.

“India will do well in the series against Sri Lanka. The away series in Australia last winter should have helped the players. The Murali Vijays, Virat Kohlis, Ajinkya Rahanes, Lokesh Rahuls should have matured from that tour and it will definitely help them against Sri Lanka, who are a tough team... but I expect India to do well,” Ganguly said in an interview last week.

The tour immediately follows the short limited overs trip to Zimbabwe which saw Rahane debut as captain. Though India won the

One-Day International (ODI) series 3-0, Zimbabwe pulled one back to level the Twenty20 International series 1-1 earlier last month. “I don’t think we should even evaluate the team’s performance in Zimbabwe.

It was a team where the seniors and other regulars were not playing.

“Rahane and the others should leave it behind, not be bothered and focus on the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka which will be very important,” said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) advisory committee member.

When asked about the Proteas’ 70-day tour of India starting on September 29, the 113-Tests veteran advised patience saying, “Let us go one by one and focus on the Sri Lanka series...When it is over, we can look at the South Africa series.”

Ganguly added that India team director Ravi Shastri, who did not travel to Zimbabwe, will be with the side in Sri Lanka.

“Ravi Shastri is going to Sri Lanka along with three other assistant coaches. Ravi is doing a great job and is going to be with the team for the time being. The chief coach

Brutal Black Caps beat the Zimbabweans black and blue ¡¡Amith Cheeran

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nother Kiwi Talent was found as New Zealand won against Zimbabwe by 80 runs in the only T20I between the two sides, highlighting the elegant debut of George Worker. Zimbabwe Captain Elton Chigumbara won the toss and elected to field on a beautiful day for cricket.

Guptill and Williamson walked out confidently to open. The usual slow and steady Williamson got the Black Caps off to a great start until he fell (20 from 12) to a short ball from Muzarabani, which Williamson failed to execute the pull shot and got caught.

Then walked in George Worker, the 25-year-old debutant from Palmerston North. Guptill and he had a quick fire partnership to get 49 runs from five overs, seeing Martin get over-confident, rush down the pitch and hitting the ball straight to Sikander on the long-off boundary. Then came in the South African-born Kiwi hero, Grant Elliot, only to waste nine balls to get eight runs.

T20 specialist Ronchi came in, making a fiery 29 and a 49 run partnership with Worker, till the

debut ended at 62 from 38 for George, which would get him the Man of The Match at the end. The new found X-Factor of the Black Caps, Colin Munro and the “old boy” Nathan McCullum amassed a total of 41 runs from a mere 18 balls towards the end of New Zealand’s innings with a couple of massive shots out of the park.

The Black Caps finished with a monumental score of 198 from 20 overs. Zimbabwe didn’t have the luxury of having a wellconstructed innings, with the typical fast start, elegant solid middle and a big bang finish.

They lost four wickets, restricting a quick start Zimbabwe hoped for, getting only 25 runs.

The solid middle of the innings was pathetic by Zimbabwe losing two wickets and barely surviving the destructive bowling of the Kiwis prodding along at a run rate of 5.5. They finished just like how they started, wheezing and whining to the end putting up a horrid fight against Kane Williamson’s side.

This T20 against Zimbabwe spawned many good things for New Zealand as a team. This crushing 80-run win further proves Williamson’s captaincy

mettle and how he is a bright prospect not only as a player but also a leader.

It is too early to judge George Worker as a potential regular for the Black Caps but just from his debut, he looks like he has that orderly aggression about him that will fit well into XI as New Zealand already has many brash players in the team (McCullum?). Everybody except McClenaghan bowled under the economy of seven, which is a respectable target for any bowler in T20s.

The selectors also showed they’re aggressive and risky approach to the team selection by choosing two spinners including the under-performing Ludhiana-based 22-year-old Ish Sodhi, who is at the brink of First Class banishment and eventual mediocrity.

will be decided in the future,” said Ganguly, who along with cricket greats Sachin Tendulkar and V.V.S. Laxman comprises the advisory committee of the BCCI, which will also give recommendations on who the new coach will be after the departure of Duncan Fletcher following the World Cup. So much overdose of cricket is also going to bring in fatigue to the players, which happened just before Zimbabwe when regular skippers Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Kohli, among others, decided not to go to Africa. But Ganguly’s take is that in modern sport, players should get used to it.

“Fatigue is going to be there.

Nowadays, cricket is played throughout the year. A professional sportsperson has to manage it today. A life of a sportsperson is approximately 14-15 years long and fatigue will be a part of it, but they have to manage that,” said Ganguly, who played 311 One-Day Internationals.

“Every professional sportsperson goes through this.

I was at the Wimbledon some

time back and I saw Roger Federer play. He is playing throughout the year as well–at the French Open, Cincinnati Open and several other tournaments.

A professional has to manage these days.”

Ganguly is part of a four-member working group which will give recommendations to the Indian Premier League (IPL) Governing Council (GC) following the suspension of two franchises.

He is also on the BCCI advisory committee and a member of the IPL GC. With so many duties to perform, how does the former India left-handed batsman manage his time? “I am also the joint secretary of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB), so you can well imagine.

It is tough trying to manage everything, all these duties. I am also nominated in honorary positions at several places,” said the 43-year-old Kolkata-resident.

“To add to it, I have to manage my personal work which takes a lot of time. I am literally running from pillar to post but in the end, I am somehow being able to manage it.”

NZ Squash girls team lands on sixth position in WSC ¡¡Rizwan Mohammad

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he New Zealand U-19 Girls Junior Squash Team were ranked sixth in the Squash Junior World Championship in the Netherlands last week, moving two places ahead of the 2013 championship. The players in order of their rankings were Ellie Epke, Abbie Palmer, JueeBhide and Nadia Hubbard.

Bhide played her first individual match against Canadian number three Madlen O’Connor losing in a close five setter. She lost her next match against French player Elisa Romba. “Even though I lost, taking these two good players to five sets definitely boosted my confidence,” said Bhide.

The event began on July 31. New Zealand was placed in a group along with England, Belgium, France and Zimbabwe.

The Kiwi team won all matches except against England and was placed second in the group.

The quarter-final against fifth seed Malaysian player Zoe Soo was a tough play and after a couple of nail-biting matches, the Kiwis lost very marginally.

The next challenge for the New Zealand team was to beat India to get into the fifth and sixth place play-offs. Number 2 player Abbie Palmer lost narrowly in five sets bringing the score to 1–1. The deciding match was important to place the team into fifth and sixth playoffs. Bhide, after being two sets and three match balls down, climbed her way back to win the third set and consecutively winning the next two sets.

Bhide, an Indian-born, says, “It was strange playing for my country (NZ) against my very own (origin) country, but I couldn’t have been happier to get a win for New Zealand.”

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KIDS ZONE

Drawing by Rudra

14 August 2015 | www.iwk.co.nz

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Drawing by Rudra

The wolf and the goat Once a wolf saw a goat atop a hill and said, Come down here, Miss Goat! The grass here is greener and longer.

Thank You, answered the goat, the grass down there may be much better.

But, if I come down you will get a good meal. So, I prefer to stay here - where you can't reach. At least I am quite safe.

MORAL : Let not others exploit your gentleness.

Riddles Answer to last weeks 4. Tree l e w o T 1.

5. A Goose h t n o M ry e v E 2.

6. Kittens 3. C

Send us stories, drawings,poems and other contributions by your little ones along with their photographs for this page. Email us at editor@ indianweekender.co.nz

Secret code challenge

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www.iwk.co.nz | 14 August 2015

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From the desk of Red

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Women leaders in the world of technology

This week, we look at some of the most influential and powerful women in the tech sphere

Sheryl Sandberg COO, Facebook

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he first woman to be elected to serve on Facebook’s board of directors, Sheryl Sandberg is the social networking giant’s COO, second only to the company’s CEO and co-founder Mark Zuckerberg.

Before joining Facebook in 2008, Sandberg was the Vice President of Global Online Sales and Operations at Google. The Harvard MBA was a World Bank economist and is also the co-author of the bestseller Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead that inspires women to pursue their ambitions. She has constantly promoted initiatives and programmes to address the gender gap in the tech industry and is known for her campaign #Ban Bossy that encourages women to take up leadership roles. Sandberg is also a named board member at The Walt Disney Company, Women for Women International and Centre for Global Development.

Susan Wojcicki CEO, YouTube

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ne of the most powerful women in business, Susan Wojcicki is the current CEO of YouTube.

She became a part of Google a year after the founders Larry Page and Sergey Brin set up office in September 1998 in Wojcicki’s garage.

Wojcicki joined as the company’s first marketing manager and later took on the role of Senior Vice President of Advertising and Commerce.

Her role in the success of Google has been imperative.

She developed AdSense, the company’s second largest source of revenue, and is also credited with two large accusations: when Google purchased YouTube in 2006—then a small start-up—and the purchase of DoubleClick.

She has also worked with Google Analytics, AdWords and Google Video.

Emily White Former COO, Snapchat

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ne of the most influential young people in business, Emily White has worked with Google, Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat—those are probably the top apps you check on your smartphone every day.

A protégé of Sheryl Sandberg at Google where she was the Director, Asia Pacific, Latin America online sales and operations, she moved to become director of the emerging businesses at Facebook and focussed on integrating ads into the company’s mobile platforms.

Her next move was into Instagram where she was the Director of Business Strategies and Advisor.

In December 2013, White was named the COO of Snapchat. In March this year, the company confirmed her departure.

Katie Jacobs Stanton Media Chief, Twitter

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ast year, Katie Jacobs Stanton, former Vice President of International Market Development of Twitter, stepped into the role of Media Chief for the social media giant.

Having previously worked for Google and Yahoo, she is now responsible for the microblogging website’s global strategies and expansion plans, and the social media platform has immensely benefitted from her, as more than 70% of the company’s traffic now comes from outside the US. Stanton has helped established international offices in countries such as the UK, France, Spain and Germany.

Before joining Twitter, Stanton worked as the Special Adviser to the Office of Innovation at the US Department of State for six months in 2010. She has been a member of the Supervisory Board at Vivendi, S.A.

Avni Shah, Director Product Management, Google

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n MIT graduate, Avni Shah has been with Google since 2003.

Currently the Director, Product Management at the company, she has worked on Google Notebook and the Google Toolbar.

Shah was one of the two women to speak during the Google I/O Developers Conference at Moscone Centre on June 25, 2014 in San Francisco, California where she introduced the working of Chrome on Google’s latest version of Android .

India’s daughter is not Indian centric ¡¡Kumar Suresh

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n today’s digital world, if there is one thing that can’t be hidden is information. Further, the hunger for that information increases exponentially when someone tries to stop you from getting it.

The Indian government learnt this lesson the hard way when it banned the documentary India’s Daughter from going on air.

Today, even though the ban still stands, it would not be wrong to assume that more than half the computer literate people in India have seen the pirated or downloaded version of the film and passed it to others within their circles.

The documentary, which talks in detail about the horrific rape incident of 2012 in New Delhi, was banned on the grounds that it shows India in poor light. The government also said it was not happy about the fact that the rapists were allowed to talk freely

Zealand for the premiere of the documentary, nces Scie al | School of Soci Media, Film and Television spoke exclusively ING FILM SCREEN to Indian Leslee Udwin presents BAFTA-winning filmmaker Weekender. She R’ spoke to us in ‘INDIA’S DAUGHTE length about Leslee Udwin producer of her experience ly the critically and commercial IS successful feature films EAST in India during EAST (1999) and WEST IS WEST the shoot and (2010) presents her directorial debut, INDIA’S DAUGTHER her stand on the (2015). ban imposed INDIA’s DAUGHTER concerns e the 2012 gang rape of a colleg l inequalities sm of societal and hierarchica by the Indian critici quent subse films student in Delhi. The cast in India and successfully government blocking its broad in India has led to the Indian government. rs. viewe video to Indian directing YouTube to block the Udwin.

T h e ed by Q&A session with Leslee The film screening will be follow documentary is being screened m Friday 21 August, 5p in Auckland ) 206 g ldin Room 220, Arts 1 (Bui for the first The University of Auckland screenwriter After the film screening, time ever rate a Q&A session Shuchi Kothari will mode with Leslee Udwin. on August 16 at Raye ALL WELCOME full abstract visit For more information and www.arts.auckland.ac.nz Freedman Arts Centre at 3 p.m. and express According to Leslee, the their views in the documentary. documentary is neither Indian Leslee Udwin, the director of centric nor is it an effort to show the film, who is currently in New s and Editors Guild of New by support from The Director This event is made possible d. and the University of Aucklan Institute, Script to Screen,

Zealand, New Zealand India

Research

India in poor light. She feels it is about the current pressing issue that the entire world is facing with regards to the human right violations taking place against women.

When asked about the title, Leslee said, “The only reason why I took up Nirbhaya’s case as the trigger for this film is because of the overwhelmingly inspiring protests that took place across India after the horrific rape of this girl. I would have followed and taken up any other story in any part of the world if such an upsurge against the crime had taken place and would have had it as the trigger to my film.”

The Western world criticised the Indian government for banning the documentary.

Therefore it was ironical that BBC shared only the Indian and global stats for crime against women at the end of the documentary and conveniently removed the stats of UK-related crimes

against women.

Although India has a population of 1.2 billion, when one looks at the number of rape cases reported, it stands at 2.0 rape cases for every 100,000 women as compared to 24.1 cases reported for 100,000 women in UK, 28.6 cases reported for 100,000 women in USA, 66.5 cases reported for 100,000 women in Sweden and South Africa at the first position at 114.9 rapes cases for every 100,000 women.

These stats clearly show that this is a global problem and needs to be addressed by all the governments. The Indian government rather than banning the documentary, should stand up and become the pioneer by showing the way to other countries by accepting that the problem exists in society. Probably it can take a cue from Nirbhaya, who fought till her last breath against the crime committed on her.

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FEATURES

14 August 2015 | www.iwk.co.nz

Tête-à-tête with the big Brother Red

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¡¡- Maya Shivam

Akshay Kumar and Sidharth Malhotra face-off this August 14 in and as Brothers which marks a powerpacked partnership between Akshay Kumar and Producer Karan Johar. Indian Weekender brings you an exclusive interview with Akshay Maya: Mixed Martial Arts sounds dangerous!

Akshay: Yes, Mixed Martial Arts is a dangerous practice that could result in injuries and loss of life. Even during filming, we would end up with abdominal injuries and smacks on our face but overall it was

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race yourself for a cinematic explosion of love, fraternal rivalry and high drama as Brothers sets screens ablaze. Released by Fox Star Studios worldwide, the high-octane family drama stars international icon Akshay Kumar along with Sidharth Malhotra (Ek Villain), Jacqueline Fernandez (Kick) and Jackie Shroff (Dhoom 3) in pivotal roles. Indian Weekender caught up with Akshay Kumar for a chit chat.

Maya: Why is this important to you?

film

Akshay: This movie is close to my heart. It means a lot to me especially because it is a movie about Martial Arts, which makes it even more important for me. The movie is releasing in August this year, which also coincides with me completing 25 years in the film industry and it means so much to me that this happens to be a movie about Martial Arts commemorating the accomplishment of my 25 years, when it’s because of my martial arts background that got me into the film industry in the first place. We’re literally going full circles.

Maya: Could you please tell me more about the character you’re playing in Brothers?

Akshay: My character is a school teacher who teaches Physics and Chemistry. He used to be Mixed Martial Artist who would fight on the

important for the role to look realistic and conditioning for us actors to make the movie as real as possible.

Despite being a professional martial artists, I underwent vigorous training for six

Akshay: The main part of the training was a six-month intense and grueling workout followed by practicing different fighting styles such as Judo, Karate, Kyudo, Aikido and other Mixed Martial Arts.

Maya: What was the most challenging part of your role?

Akshay: The most challenging part was fighting like a professional MMA fighter, learning from the best and then trying to catch up with their fighting techniques. But I thoroughly enjoyed it, as my teachers are

streets for money. Mixed Martial Arts is a very dangerous profession and due to monetary issues, my character has no choice but to go back to the streets to flight in a professional tournament.

Maya: How was your experience working with Karan Johar?

Akshay: Karan is mainly in the production side for this movie so I don’t really get to work with him much. But he really knows how to make big and brilliant movies; he knows how to do it right and I’m just here to make him happy.

months to be fit for the role. But besides all the fighting, there’s also a poignant love story at the heart of the film which we find out later is the main reason why my character goes on to become a street MMA fighter.

Maya: What all was involved in the training for the role?

from everywhere around the world—from Brazil, LA, Bangkok and Japan. They are true MMA fighters. It was an honour to learn from the best.

As part of our training programme I had to lose up to 16kgs and Sidharth Malhotra had to gain 13kgs in weight.

While fighting was a major physical challenge, we also had to face a lot of mental challenge. A very high level of mental attention is required to remember your punches and every move.

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I would just like to tell my fans how much it means to me to make a movie that they like. I really hope all my fans like Brothers. I would also like to tell them that the movie took about one whole year to make.

Maya : There are lots of talks going on about the movie everywhere, you must have done an amazing job.

In fact I was researching about the movie right before this interview and I found out that the movie is a remake of the movie Warrior by Gavin ‘O Connor and Cliff Dorfman, I believe you will put forward an amazing performance, maybe better than the original?

Akshay: Well that’s news to me but very humbling to hear. We have tried our level best to give the best performance we can. I wouldn’t really compare the two movies to be honest, as we probably can’t make it better than the original but we gave it all we could. Let’s see what the audience says.

Maya : Akshay, what’s your favourite genre of movies? I mean you’ve done many different types of roles in different movies, which one is your favourite? Is it comedy, drama or action?

Akshay : I like comedy when it is mixed with action, it is just so much fun to do comedy with a bit of action, its fun to watch and also so much fun to do.

Maya : What are your next projects?

Akshay : My focus is on the release of Brothers. After that I have Singh is Blinng coming out on the 2nd October and then Airlift in January 2016. In Singh is Blinng I play a larger than life character, something I haven’t done in a couple of years since Rowdy Rathore.

My films have been pretty serious with Gabbar, Baby and Special 24. I’m really excited about Airlift, as it is a story about Saddam Hussein’s attack on Kuwait.

Maya: What Brothers?

is

your

hope

for

Akshay: I hope it brings in the mullah and gets the box office ringing while also gaining critical acclaim.

Maya: Your final message to your fans in New Zealand Akshay: I would just like to tell my fans how much it means to me to make a movie that they like. I really hope all my fans like Brothers. I would also like to tell them that the movie took about one whole year to make. We literally put our blood, sweat and tears into the making. The climax of the movie took about 52 days to shoot, just to get it perfect for the audience. All the fans across the globe should watch this movie on the big screen, watch it with your family and loved ones. Do not watch pirated versions of it. We poured out our sweat and blood into this movie.

Maya: Wow, that must have been a challenge! Do you ever take a break?

Akshay: It has been 25 years and I haven’t had a break. Jokes apart, my international filming schedule becomes a break for me. It is the best thing if your work is your passion in life. It makes me feel like I’m always on break.

Maya: How was it working with Sidharth Malhotra?

Akshay: Sidharth is a very talented young man. He is very professional when it comes to work. Although he had no experience with MMA he did really well.

He also went through eight months of training. Sidharth has a great future ahead of him. In Brothers he plays the

character of a “man” unlike his earlier movies, where he’s mostly played young characters.

We had a great time on set. He’s a Punjabi, I am Punjabi and even our director Karan Malhotra is Punjabi! We spoke in Punjabi all the time to the degree the film should have been called Prah (Brothers in Punjabi).

Maya: Do you have some MMA tips or warnings for your fans out there?

Akshay: Mixed Martial Arts is wonderful to watch. It is very practical but dangerous at the same time. You have to be very careful when doing something like that. Watch and enjoy MMA, and if some people are thinking about doing it, they must be very careful and think about enrolling in training first. They must make a thoughtful decision before actually doing it.

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14 August 2015 | www.iwk.co.nz

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No shortcut to success

Ever seen an ant persevere? Doesn’t matter how big the load, its single-mindedness in doing what it wants to, always gets it over the line. The hurdles, the falls and the brief stops, are just there to make the chunk of sugar even sweeter. ¡¡Kumar Suresh

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ere in this column, we try to bring to you the tales of people who came to this country seeking better life and got what they wanted from their life in this country. Sreeman Myadam, is one such person who by sheer determination and single-mindedness, came to this country and settled down with his family and has held his own during adverse time to savour the fruits of hard work.

Sreeman Myadam I am Sreeman and I am from Hyderabad, India. I came to New Zealand in February 2008 with my wife taking up postgraduate studies here. I was initially in this country on a visitor’s visa and after three months, I got a dependent work visa.

To begin with, everything was difficult.

I got married in 2005 and when we made our decision to move to New Zealand in early 2008, we got the good news that my wife was pregnant with our first child.

Although the sweetest news of my life, our whole world turned upside down, as all our plans of moving to New Zealand took a backstage for some time. I never thought we would make it to New Zealand, but with

God’s blessing, we somehow made it.

After that, things were difficult. I was working at four different places to make ends meet. Looking back I don’t know how I could pull everything off. I am a firm believer in Sai Baba and I can trace the source of all my energy to his divine blessings. After my wife gave birth, we sent our child to India with my parents for some time. Those days, we were staying with my

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brother-in-law and here I should thank him because without him, I would have not reached the stage in life that I am in, right now. He was always there to help and guide us.

There was a time in 2009 when I emotionally couldn’t take it any more and I went back to India for six months. Later I gathered myself and came back to New Zealand again to give it one more try. My brother-in-law once again became the source of strength and encouragement.

Without him, I would have not come back here again at all.

After coming back, I worked for a wellknown shopping mart and here is where I met a friend who I would not hesitate calling my godfather. He was more than a friend or a colleague and he guided me in making the right choices in my career. He shaped my career and is one of the reasons for who I am today. With his support, I grew at the place where I was working from strength to strength and became a team leader. In some time after that, I got my permanent resident visa based on the job profile I held.

I think in my case it was all about God’s blessings, ever helping presence of my brother in law, my friends and hard work which helped me settle down here in this wonderful country.

They say behind every successful man, there is a woman, but in my case, my wife was by my side at every moment of this journey and I can’t express how glad I am to have her comforting presence in my life.

Today in my humble abode, I have my wife and two kids who fill me with happiness and joy that makes me forget all the hardships I have seen earlier in my life. It makes it all worth it.

When people who come from India, ask me about the secret to success in New Zealand, I tell them that there is only one way to summit and it’s definitely not a shortcut. The route has lots of hurdles and requires hard work. One needs to be ready to do all sorts of work irrespective of how small or how big they find it at the beginning. Also being honest about what one can do at a work place is very important. I usually advise people from India working under me to be honest and open about what they cannot do. After all, knowing your own weaknesses is the first step towards success.

Above all, to succeed in a new country, one needs to be passionate about the new place and its culture. Never stop believing in yourself and rest assured that if you do things right, God will never disappoint you.

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Working with veterans great learning experience: John Abraham

Bollywood with Abbas-Mustan’s directorial.

The comic family entertainer, which also stars Arbaaz Khan, Manjari Fadnis, Simran Kaur Mundi and Elli Avram, will hit the screens on September 25.

I’ve carved out a niche on my own: Divya Dutta

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ollywood actor John Abraham, who has worked with the likes of Nana Patekar, Paresh Rawal and Naseeruddin Shah in Welcome Back, says that working with such veterans was great learning experience for him.

John and his other co-stars including Anil Kapoor and Nana were present at the film’s press meet in Mumbai where he stated that he never felt any pressure during the shoot of the film.

“I felt great working in Welcome Back.”

I never felt any nervousness or pressure shooting for the film, as I’m happy that the film is a sequel, and working with talented and experienced actors such as Nana, Paresh, Anil and Naseeruddin among others was a very great learning experience,” said John.

Directed by Anees Bazmee, the film also stars Shruti Hassan, Dimple Kapadia and Ankita Srivastav and will release on September 4.

ctress Divya Dutta says she has carved out a niche in the Hindi film industry on her own.

“When I see myself in the mirror, I do The film stars Manisha Koirala, realise that I have come a long way... (It Jackie Shroff and Gulshan Grover. has) been a long journey, but a very good “I started out with Manisha Koirala in Agni one. I have carved my niche on my own and Sakshi. Makers were looking for a lookalike I love to look at that face in the mirror,” of Manisha, so I was selected as her sister’s Divya said while promoting her upcoming role. And after such a long gap, we sisters film Chehere. are back together again, but this time both “The dream I was chasing...I the sisters are competing. wanted to become something and “There is jealousy and rivalry between now that I have reached there, it is both and plenty of drama. It is a murder an incredible feeling,” she added. mystery, so the entire story revolves around Chehere, which is written and directed by them,” she said.

Rohit Kaushik, is a psychological thriller set in the past.

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Hate the way TV works: Kapil Sharma

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omedian-actor Kapil Sharma, who became a rage over the small screen with his Comedy Nights With Kapil, says he is more keen to do “standup comedy and movies” as he loathes TV’s working style.

Kapil, lying low for some time due to a back injury, chatted with his fans and followers on micro-blogging site Twitter.

A user quizzed the actor about his preferred medium: “Movies, television, anchoring or standup comedy?

What do you love doing the most?”

Kapil, who is awaiting release of his film Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon, responded: “Stand up comedy and movies... I hate the way TV works.”

The actor, who began his ride to fame through a reality TV show The Great Indian Laughter Challenge, will foray into

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Dancing her way to glory

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This young and talented Indo-Kiwi dancer’s love for classical dance saw her starting her professional training at the tender age of eight. Her passion and commitment were not lost on her guru who believes that she is destined to scale greater heights. This week, the Indian Weekender brings you the story of Sumedha Hariswamy. ¡¡Maya Shivam Tell us something about yourself and the dance form you practice.

Something people may not know about me is that in addition to New Zealand, another place I feel at home is Hong Kong.

I was born in Hong Kong and moved here when I was seven. I have learnt Bharatanatyam since before our move and it is an absolute passion of mine. I currently study Psychology and Sociology at the University of Auckland.

Bharatanatyam is an ancient Indian classical dance form that originated in Tamil Nadu. In the old times, it was performed by temple dancers as an offering to the Lord.

Today, it is an art form that is popular around the world and what makes it so special is the divinity and tradition which it continues to uphold. Bharatanatyam to me is my form of meditation that brings me immense peace and joy.

How and when did your dance journey start?

My love for dance began in Hong Kong.

I was extremely lucky to have met Smt. Renuka Ketheesan, my guru, early on in our move to New Zealand. Ever since then, my passion for Bharatanatyam has been strong. What has really ignited this fire, is my journey through my Arangetram. When Rama Akka, as I fondly refer to my Guru as, suggested the idea of doing my Arangetram, I contemplated on whether I was capable of executing such a respectable art the way it ought to be presented.

However, Rama Akka had this steadfast confidence in me that I would be unable to decipher myself; naturally this made me curious. Since then, this journey’s objective to me was not only to complete my

Sumedha Hariswamy Arangetram with precision, but was also an introspective assessment to further explore my capabilities and potential. I soon started practices, which only increased by hours and days, and forever it will be one of the most memorable periods of my life.

What inspired you to learn Indian classical dance and not something contemporary?

I have grown up watching Soumya, my sister, perform who completed her Arangetram at the age of 14 in Hong Kong.

Witnessing her performances delivered with such grace and vibrancy has definitely impacted the style of dance to which I am drawn. With that being said, although I will always identify with Bharatanatyam, in the future I would love to expand my horizons and explore other styles.

Who is your idol?

In respect to dance, my idol is my Guru.

The grace in which she carries herself, the confidence that she instils in her students and her devotion to the art, are a few of the many things I admire about her. As Aditi Mangaldas says, “Creativity cannot be held within the confines of history.

It needs to be honestly and harmoniously allowed to reinvent.” Rama Akka spreads beyond the traditional arrangement of movements with her ingenious choreography which only challenges the art as we know and love while maintaining its integrity.

How do you maintain a balance between your studies and dance?

India Independence Day

Date: Saturday 15 August 2015 Time: starts at 10:30am with flag raising Venue: The Mahatma Gandhi Centre, 145 New North Road, Eden Terrace, Auckland.

Let us honour, salute and be proud. Auckland Indian Association and NZICA is celebrating 68th Indian Independence Day. Everybody is invited.

Workshop by HOTA Forum

Date: Sunday 16 August 2015 Time: 1pm to 2pm Venue: Chinmaya Mission NZ, 63 McKenzie Road, Mangere

HOTA Forum presents a free workshop on “Why are we CREATED?” In this workshop, Br. Adarsh Chaitanya from Chinmaya Mission New Zealand will share with us the ancient wisdom on popular questions like: Is there a purpose to creation, why do I exist, why creation? You will also get an opportunity to interact with Br. Adarsh Chaitanya during the workshop to clarify any specific questions on this topic.

CAB Workshop on NZ Tax System Date: Saturday, 15 August 2015 Time: 9:30am to 1:30 pm Venue: CAB New Lynn, New Lynn Library Building, 3 Memorial Drive, New Lynn

CAB New Lynn will hold a free workshop on “New Zealand Tax System” and “Making a Will and appoint a Power of Attorney”.

Come and join us at our FREE workshop with Adon Kumar and

In complete honesty, it initially did frighten me and I wondered if I would be able to focus on either properly. With time, however, it became second nature to me and now that I have completed my Arangetram, I don’t know what to with all this free time!

How has your family supported you in pursuing your dream and passion?

My family has always been the rock that has supported me in every way. Their constant love, guidance and confidence are the reasons I was able to perform without a notion of fear. I am ever grateful to have this loving, supportive, wonderfully crazy family.

Looking forward, what is your aim/where do you see yourself in coming few years?

In regards to dance, I want continue learning for as long as possible because I truly love being a student! Sometime in the near future, I do wish to go India to gain more experience and understand Bharatanatyam from a different perspective.

a speaker from the Public Trust and learnt about: Personal Tax, Kiwisaver, Wills and Power of Attorney. Refreshments and Light lunch will be provided. To register, please email at newlynn@ cab.org.nz or call 8274731 / 8277830

Maisuria Samaj NZ General Meeting

Date: Saturday 24 October 2015 Time: 6 p.m. onwards Venue: New Lynn Community Centre Totara Ave, New Lynn Auckland.

Maisuria Samaj of New Zealand is organising its first General Meeting. All Maisuria Families are invited to attend. PLEASE NOTE DATES HAVE CHANGED FROM 15th August to 24th October 2015.

Parenting Seminar by GOPIO

Date: Thursday, 20 August 2015 Time: 7.00 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.

Venue: Mission Heights Primary School Hall Jeff Road, Flat Bush Auckland Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) Botany Branch in collaboration with Mission Heights Primary School plan to conduct a seminar on the challenges and issues of parenting in today’s environment. Eminent local people, mission heights local community, GOPIO members and all other interested people are expected to attend. Detailed Programme is given below for your information.

CAB Workshop

Date: Tuesday, 25 August 2015 Time: 2 pm to 3 pm Venue: Ratu Room, Manaia PHO, 28-30 Rust Avenue, Whangarei CAB Whangarei will hold a free workshop on Rest Home Subsidies and International Pension Portability. You will get to know the criteria to avail rest home subsidies and how the international pension portability works in New Zealand. Presenter: The speakers are from Ministry of Social Development Helen Cobb on subsidies and Lyn Pairama on pension portability. Afternoon tea will be provided. For more information please call Moea Armstrong at 09 4388046 or email her at cab.whngr@ xtra.co.nz In the 7th August issue of Indian Weekender (page 7, Packed house premier for Twisted Families), we have erroneously identified : • Rishi Deepak as the lead actor of the movie, instead of a guest star • Jagdish Punja and Neelam Madhu as part of the supporting cast. They are in the lead role.

• Devesh Pratap Singh, director of the film as Devesh Sharma We apologise for the error.

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SIT is dedicated to assisting with the practical up-skilling of the NZ workforce, and what better way to show our commitment then to offer selected programmes on the Free Fees Campaign.

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