IndiaPost-04-30-2010 by Ghanshyam Bisht

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Five city councils to open with Hindu mantras Details on page 11

Hindus upset over 'Sita Sings the Blues' Details on page 11

Survey surprise on teens using drugs, alcohol Details on page 16

Six Indians at Entrepreneurship Summit in US Details on page 37

India contributes to UN fund for slave memorial

VOL 15, No. 816

April 30, 2010

50¢

Periodical Postage

G-20 MEET LAUDS INDIA LABOR SCHEMES

'Spiritual' Water Show by BAPS in Gandhinagar Details on page 35

India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Two innovative and flagship Schemes of the Government of India, viz. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme and Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana were highlighted at the G-20 Labor and Employment Ministers' Meeting April 21, at Washington DC, by India's Labor and Employment Minister Mallikarjun Kharge. This meeting of G-20 Labor and Employment Ministers was chaired by US Labor Secretary Hilda Solis. Instead of the normal time of ten minutes given for each presentation, the Indian Union Labor Minister was given the floor for more than half an hour in view of the keen interest in the initiatives taken by Government of India to foster inclusive growth. The presentation generated discussion among the labor ministers who wanted to learn more about these two schemes which had touched the lives of such a large number of beneficiaries. They were also interested in learning about how technology was used to reach the rural masses in remote areas.

Ajay Banga named CEO of MasterCard Details on page 37

Beverly home for Vidhu Vinod Chopra Details on page 24

SNOWFALL IN SUMMER: This is not Switzerland but Ahmedabad in Gujarat, India, where outside temperatures are above 40 degrees Celsius. A technological marvel provides attractions like real-time snow fall, snow slides and even a snow view restaurant at the Maniar Wonderland ëIndoor Snow Park.í Visitors are seen enjoying at the minus 6 degrees snow park.

NRIs may be allowed to invest in infrastructure Details on page 37

CONTENTS Bollywood ---------------------- 24-25 Classifieds --------------------- 45-47

Details on page 6

Community Post -------------- 11-21 Date Book -------------------------- 48

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INDIA POST SURVEY survey@indiapost.com This week’s question

Is India’s NRGEA success overblown? Last week’s result

Was Obama’s N-summit a success? YES 35%

NO 65%

Vijay Gandhi appointed Federal Magistrate Judge India Post News Service

Judge Gandhi will sit in Los Angeles and will preside over matters arising from all three Divisions of the Court. The Central District of California is the largest district in the nation, serving more than 19 million people. "We are exceptionally proud of Judge Gandhi for his accomplishments, especially given his steadfast commitment to the South Asian community," said Joseph J. Centeno, president of the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association. Details on page 18

Certified by “CIRCULATION VERIFICATION COUNCIL Readership 117,765”

Edit Page --------------------------- 50 HealthScience Post --------- 22-23 Horoscope ------------------------- 44 Immigration Post ------------- 41-43 India ------------------------------ 35-36 Life Style ----------------------- 26-27 Philosophy ------------------------- 49 Publisherís Diary ------------------ 4 Real Estate ------------------------ 40 Sports Post ------------------------ 28 TechBiz Post ------------------- 37-39 Travel & Hospitality Post ---- 29-32

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April 30, 2010

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April 30, 2010

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started out on this column this week intending to comment on the ongoing cricket controversy in India - the politics of cricket, the politicians involved in cricket, the politics within cricket - but was boggled out of my mind at the sheer magnitude of the stakes involved in the game which was once called the gentlemen's sport. I used to be intrigued by the involvement of such politicians as Sharad Pawar, who controls the Board of Control of Cricket in India (BCCI) while being a full time central minister; the involvement of businessmen like Jagmohan Dalmia earlier and now Lalit Modi. I have always wondered who gave these handful of people the kind of powers they wield to control a game that was once an almost patriotic national past time into a mega-billion dollar personal business empire reducing the game itself into a pale shadow of what was a British legacy to India. And now we have another federal minister "mentoring" private bidders of a cricket franchise and then trying to get a free stake for his woman friend… it could get murkier of course. I couldn't believe it when I learnt that the BCCI, the richest cricket organization in the world, enjoys a tax exemption that the Indian government has inexplicably failed to revoke over the years. The game could not have not changed over the years; but at least it could have retained some of the spirit of the original game. But I am digressing of course. Like I started out by saying, I actually do not intend to comment on this game anymore. I'd rather talk about Earth Day (April 22). Since the first Earth Day 40 years ago, Americans have been pitching in to make their local communities cleaner and healthier. So, notwithstanding the myths or reality of global warming, let us get out and do our bit to pick up trash at a local park, plant trees, clean up a river or stream or recycle or reduce plastic. If the service itself is not gratifying enough, the results of the service will surely be.

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Vidhu Vinod Chopra has become the first B'town celebrity to own a house in Beverly Hills, opposite Beverly Hills Hotel.

Cover Story: India lauded Two innovative and flagship schemes of the Government of India were highlighted at the G-20 Labor summit in Washington.

Community: Hindu prayers Four city councils in California and one in Nevada are opening their meetings with Hindu prayers containing Sanskrit shlokas.

India: Spiritual water show The first-of-its-kind spiritual water show was held recently at Swaminarayan Akshardham in Gandhinagar.

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Travel: Devikulam The hill resort of Devikulam in Kerala has gorgeous green slopes that are so high as if to touch the sky.

April 30, 2010

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G-20 meet lauds India labor schemes India Post News Service

Labor and Employment Minister Mallikarjun Kharge at the G20 Labor and Employment Ministersí Meeting in Washington, DC on April 21

schemes and stated that these initiatives are specially worth replicating for large countries with diverse populations. Summing up the discussion, US Labor Secretary Hilda Solis stated that the achievement of India is laudable as these schemes had succeeded in reaching the masses in remote geographical areas, adding that the US hoped to learn from these innovative and dynamic programs in India. Later the same day, Minister Kharge met President Barack Obama along with other G-20 Labor Ministers.

49 million provided employment

PTI adds: Addressing the meeting, Kharge said a record 49 million rural households in India were provided employment with an in-

Meera Shankar with the US Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis

Pakistan to receive guided missile frigate from US WASHINGTON: Pakistan has signed a USD 65 million deal with the United States for the "hot transfer" of refurbished American frigate USS McInerney by August 31. The contract for the "hot transfer" of the USS McInerney, a Perry-class guided missile frigate, was signed by senior officials of the two countries here. Under the agreement, the Pakistan Navy will take over the vessel on August 31. The sale of the frigate, which would be inducted into the Pakistan Navy as PNS Alamgir at a ceremony in the US, was approved by the United States Congress in September 2008. Commissioned in 1979, the frigate would be handed over after a refurbishment that includes antisubmarine capability that has been paid for with the foreign military aid provided by the United

States to friendly countries. On completion of the refurbishment in January next year, the vessel will sail to Pakistan to join

‘The successful completion of this contract will pave the way for acquisition of more vessels of the same class for the Pakistan Navy to raise a squadron of eight Perry-class frigates’ the country's naval fleet. Pakistani officials described the deal to acquire the warship a major "milestone" towards further

strengthening the wide-ranging Pakistan-US relationship. "The successful completion of this contract will pave the way for acquisition of more vessels of the same class for the Pakistan Navy to raise a squadron of eight Perryclass frigates," a spokesman for the Pakistani embassy said. "This will greatly enhance the operational readiness of the Pakistan Navy," he added. In the last couple of years USS McInerney has been mainly involved in successful counterdrug operations. Pakistan plans to raise a squadron of eight Perry Class Frigates. The frigate is being transferred under the Foreign Assistance ACT and the Arms Export Control Act in which Pakistan is considered a major non NATO Ally and is able to receive older unneeded US military equipment. PTI

Ambassador Meera Shankar at the G20 Labor and Employment Ministersí Meeting

vestment of USD 7.19 billion under the flagship scheme in last fiscal, which has checked distress migration. Kharge said Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme has also created "Green Jobs" as 70 per cent works relate to water conservation, waterharvesting, restoration, renovation and desilting of water bodies; drought-proofing i.e. plantation & afforestation. Forty-nine million rural households in India were provided employment with an investment of USD 7.19 billion under NREGS in 2009-2010, in a fraction of what the US and the developed world is trying to achieve, Kharge said. A set of recommendation drafted ahead of meeting, the Labor Ministers on G-20 countries say that as some countries experience eco-

nomic recovery "continued attention be paid to job creation and job preservation, including vigorous implementation of existing policies and consideration for additional employment measures". Kharge said the scheme has led to an increase in Agriculture Minimum Wages and wage earned per day and annual income. "Bargaining power of labor has increased. Distress migration has reduced. The Act has also resulted in financial inclusion on an unprecedented scale as 69 million Bank & Post Office accounts have been opened," he said. This has also led to improvement in ground water, agricultural productivity and cropping intensity. "It has also enhanced livelihood diversification in rural areas," he told the participating G-20 countries.-PTI

Lajpat Nagar blast: three get death penalty, life term to one NEW DELHI: A Delhi court has to murder under the IPC with the awarded death penalty to three out three convicts who got death penof six convicted members of mili- alty. tant outfit Jammu Kashmir Islamic Convict Farooq Ahmed Khan Front (JKIF) for the 1996 Lajpat and Farida Dar, who were held Nagar blast which had claimed 13 guilty under milder penal provilives. sions, were allowed to walk free "Three convicts (Mohd as the court said the imprisonment Naushad, Mohd Ali Bhatt and Mirza Nissar Hussain) are being Sending the three convicts awarded the death pen- to the gallows, the court alty, which is subject to confirmation from the said their complicity in the High Court," District and grave offence warranted Sessions Judge S P Gargh said. imposition of the Sending the three conextreme penalty victs to the gallows, the court said their complicity in the grave offence warranted served during the trial was their imposition of the extreme penalty. punishment. The court also awarded rigorThe court had on April eight ous life imprisonment to convict convicted six out of 10 accused in Javed Ahmed Khan who was the case and rapped the police for found guilty of serious offences "highly defective" probe and calof murder, conspiracy and attempt lous attitude.-PTI

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US, India holding discussions on access to Headley CHICAGO: The US and Indian authorities are holding discussions on providing New Delhi access to LeT operative David Coleman Headley who has confessed to his role in the Mumbai terror attacks and agreed to be interrogated by foreign agencies. "Those discussions (of providing Indian investigators access to Headley) are going on between our government and the Indian government at this time. It is part of the plea agreement that Headley would cooperate with Indian authorities," PakistaniAmerican Headley's lawyer John Theis told PTI. Theis would not comment on how much more time it would take before Indian investigators are finally given a date to quiz Headley and said "those kind of discussions will happen without the media knowing the specifics of time and place". Theis said he is not part of the

discussions going on between the US and Indian governments but expects to be present when Headley is quizzed. "I would expect to be present anytime that my client is interviewed by law enforcement offi-

US President Barack Obama had assured Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during latter's recent visit to US that India would get access to Headley cials, be it from India, US or any other country," he said. Theis refused to give any more details. Headley had last month

pleaded guilty to plotting the Mumbai attacks and avoided the death penalty and extradition to India, Pakistan and Denmark by agreeing to be interrogated by foreign agencies on US soil. The US has said it is working "at the highest level" to provide India access to Headley, who had scouted targets for the 26/11 Mumbai attacks during his several trips to India. US President Barack Obama had assured Prime Minister Manmohan Singh during latter's recent visit to US that India would get access to Headley. Singh had raised the issue with Obama when the two leaders met in Washington last week on the sidelines of the Nuclear Security Summit. India has for long been asking that its investigators be allowed to quiz Headley directly to unravel the entire conspiracy behind the attacks. -PTI

US rejects allegation of involvement in Benazir assassination ISLAMABAD: The US has dismissed as "false" and "outrageous" the allegations made by former Inter-Services Intelligence agency chief Hamid Gul that the United States government was involved in the assassination of former premier Benazir Bhutto. Noting that Gul had "repeatedly asserted the outrageous and baseless claim" during appearances on two TV news channels,

a spokesman for the US embassy said, "The US rejects this and other false allegations regularly made by Lt Gen (retired) Gul about its policies and activities." The spokesman said that at the time of Bhutto's murder in December 2007, the US "swiftly and publicly condemned" the act and called for an independent investigation. "Despite the fact that Mr Gul gave no proof for his allegations

against the United States, his statements were not challenged by any of the TV hosts who invited him to their programs," the spokesman said. "TV stations and the anchors have the same obligations as other journalists to present the public with balanced views, to question unsubstantiated allegations by guests and to reject incitement," he added. -PTI

US OFFICIAL ON VISIT: Ambassador Roemer meets with Deputy Secretary of State James B. Steinberg who is on his first visit to India as Deputy Secretary, April 20. Deputy Secretary Steinberg was to meet with government officials and other political figures, and business, civil society, and opinion leaders in New Delhi and Kolkata

India contributes to UN fund for slave trade memorial India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Ambassador H.S. Puri, Permanent Representative of India to the UN on April 15, handed over a check of $250,000 as Government of India's contribution to the Trust Fund for the Permanent Memorial to honor the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. India is the largest contributor to this Fund. The check was received on behalf of the Trust Fund by Amir Dossal, Executive Director, United Nations Office for Partnerships. Ambassador Raymond O Wolfe, Permanent Representative of Jamaica and Chairman of the Permanent Memorial Committee as well as Kiyotaka Akasaka, UN Under Secretary General for Communications and Public Information were also present at the occasion.

The Trust Fund was launched on May 20, 2009 following the adoption by the General Assembly in May 2007 of the resolution sponsored by CARICOM and African Union to commemorate the 200th anniversary of abolition of transatlantic slave trade in 2007 as well as to create a Trust Fund to construct a Permanent Memorial in the lawns of the UN in New York to honor the victims of slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade. The memorial is expected to be erected by 2012. The contribution reflects India's firm belief that the international community must pay homage to the victims of slavery and the slave trade, one of mankind's greatest scars, and acknowledges the tragedy so that such abhorrent practices are not repeated, a press release stated.

Chinese dam will not affect Brahmaputra: Krishna NEW DELHI: China has said the dam being built by it on river Brahmaputra will have no impact on the downstream flow of the river into India, External Affairs Minister S M Krishna told Rajya Sabha. "It is a fact that when I met my Chinese counterpart recently, the question of the hydel project over Brahmaputra river being built by it in Zangmu did come up. However, the Chinese foreign minister assured me that it is a small project which will not have any impact on the river's downstream flow into North-east India," he said during Question Hour. Expressing dissatisfaction over the answer, opposition BJP demanded a short term discussion on the issue. They were joined by Birendra Prasad Baishya and Kumar Deepak Das (both AGP rpt AGP). Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was also present in the House. Das said the dam being built by China is not a small project but a 450 MW hydro-electric project and sought to know from Krishna the status of talks with China over trans-border rivers like Brahmaputra. To this the minister said, "with reference to trans- border rivers, we have an expert level mechanism to address the issue. A meeting of experts from both India and

China is scheduled to take place between April 26-29 in Delhi and the issue will be discussed in it." He, however, said that as regards China, "there are concerns over the boundary question. It has been our policy that a fair and mutually acceptable solution to this is needed. Our special repre-

S M Krishna

sentative has held 13 meetings with his Chinese counterpart on this and the 14th meeting is scheduled soon". Krishna said India-China relations are growing despite these concerns. To another question, he said "there is no disconnect between India-China relations....A beginning was made when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao in Copenhagen and a new beginning was made there when both the nations stood together on common issues". -PTI

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Bhutto murder: Gul refused to appear before UN panel ISLAMABAD: Former ISI chief Hamid Gul, who was named by slain ex-premier Benazir Bhutto among those posing a threat to her life, refused to be quizzed by the UN commission that probed her December 2007 assassination, according to the panel's head. In a letter written to ex-President Pervez Musharraf two months before she was killed, Bhutto had named Gul, former Punjab Chief Minister Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi and ex-Intelligence Bureau chief Ijaz Shah as the persons who should be investigated if she was murdered. Gul refused to be interviewed by the UN commission that probed the facts and circumstances of Bhutto's assassination, the panel's head, Ambassador Heraldo Munoz, said. The UN panel was initially told that Pakistan's intelligence agencies and army were "off limits." Army and intelligence officials agreed to be interviewed only after the commission's insistence, Munoz said in an interview to 'Express 24/7' news channel. The panel met Musharraf during its probe but the interview was subject to the condition of confi-

dentiality, Munoz said. He also described as "inexcusable" and "irresponsible" the disappearance of a black Mercedes that was to have served as Bhutto's back-up vehicle in case of an attack on her. The vehicle left the site in Rawalpindi after she was attacked by a suicide bomber on December 27, 2007.

where to be seen afterwards. The UN commission said it was "incredible" that the occupants of the Mercedes drove all the way to Zardari House, some 20 minutes away, before they became aware that Bhutto had been injured in the attack. The UN panel's report has indicted the then Musharraf regime

Qureshi has denied allegations that the former President was responsible for Bhutto's death and claimed that the UN panel's report was based on rumors. Qureshi also said Bhutto exposed herself to risks in Pakistan even though the ISI had warned her not to attend the rally in Rawalpindi, following which she

He also described as ‘inexcusable’ and ‘irresponsible’ the disappearance of a black Mercedes that was to have served as Bhutto's back-up vehicle in case of an attack on her. The vehicle left the site in Rawalpindi after she was attacked Hamid Gul

Senior PPP leaders Rehman Malik -- currently the Interior Minister, Babar Awan -- now the Law Minister and Farhatullah Babar were traveling in the bulletproof black Mercedes. According to eyewitnesses, the Mercedes left Liaquat Bagh, the site of Bhutto's rally in Rawalpindi, before her vehicle and was no-

for failing to provide adequate security to Bhutto despite reports of numerous threats to her life. It has also highlighted several security lapses linked to the assassination. The report described the Musharraf regime's failure to protect Bhutto as "inexcusable. Musharraf's aide Rashid

was targeted by a suicide bomber. The UN commission's report was critical of the police investigation of the assassination and said former Rawalpindi police chief Saud Aziz even "impeded" the probe. The commission said police were "subordinate" to intelligence agencies in collecting evidence

and conducting investigations. The report said: "Given the historical and possibly continuing relationships between intelligence agencies and some radical Islamist groups, the agencies could be compromised in their investigations of crimes possibly carried out by such groups." The report said Saud Aziz was not acting alone and suggested that he was taking orders from Maj Gen Nadeem Ejaz Ahmed, who was then head of Military Intelligence. Pakistani authorities have removed seven senior police and civil officials from active service on the ground of being linked to lapses pointed out by the UN commission. The government also terminated the contractual service of Brig (Retd) Javed Iqbal Cheema, the former interior ministry spokesman who claimed Bhutto had died after hitting her head on a lever in her vehicle. The Federal Investigation Agency team probing Bhutto's death is expected to question the seven police and civil officials who have been made officers on special duty. -PTI

Gilani hopes Indo-Pak dialogue Pakistan to probe 6 officials in Bhutto assassination case may resume soon ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has reciprocated the good wishes conveyed to him by senior Indian leaders and hoped that the stalled dialogue between the two countries would be resumed soon. Gilani made the remarks during a meeting with Population Welfare Minister Firdous Ashiq Awan, who visited India recently and met several leaders, including Congress party chief Sonia Gandhi and Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad. During her meeting with Awan, Sonia Gandhi sent her felicitations to President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Gilani and the people of Pakistan on the passage of the 18th Constitutional Amendment Bill, which strips the President of his sweeping powers and removes changes made to the constitution by military dictators. Gandhi lauded the Bhutto family's sacrifices for democracy

and appreciated Gilani's reconciliatory policy to bring political stability to Pakistan. "While reciprocating the goodwill gesture of the Indian politicians, the Prime Minister hoped

Yousuf Raza Gilani

(for the) early resumption of the bilateral dialogue between the two countries," said a statement issued by the Prime Minister's media office. Pakistan desires peace and stability in the region and looks forward to establish friendly bilateral relations with all the countries of

the region, Gilani said. Pakistan is trying to solve regional issues through dialogue as stability will usher in prosperity in the region, he added. Awan briefed the Prime Minister on her visit to India and her meetings with leaders of major political parties, especially Sonia Gandhi. She said the formation of a "Friendship Forum", especially a Women Parliamentarians Forum, was discussed in her meetings with lawmakers to bring both countries closer. The Indian leaders stressed the need for people-to-people contacts and free bilateral trade. They also discussed proposals for socio-cultural heritage exchange through ministries and youth of both countries, she said. While in India, Awan also attended a reception to mark the wedding of cricketer Shoaib Malik and tennis star Sania Mirza. Awan represents Shoaib's hometown of Sialkot in parliament.-PTI

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani au- three persons in the light of the thorities will probe six senior po- UN commission's report. lice officials who have been reThe FIA's counsel said the moved from active service after agency needed more time to inbeing named in the report of a UN vestigate Syed Gul, Gul Roze and panel that investigated the assas- Mohammad Sharif, who were exsination of former premier Benazir onerated in connection with a suiBhutto. cide attack in Kamra, to determine The Federal Investigation their alleged involvement in Agency will conduct the probe Bhutto's assassination. against Additional Inspector GenThe UN commission's report eral of Police (CID) Chaudhry Abdul Majeed, Additional In- These officials were removed spector General of Police Saud Aziz, SSP (op- from active service and erations) Yasin Farooq, demoted to the rank of officers SSP (headquarters) on special duty after the UN Ishfaq Anwar, SSP (inpanel submitted its report on vestigation) Khurram Shahzad and Haider the facts and circumstances of Warriach, officials said. Bhutto's assassination in These officials were December 2007 removed from active service and demoted to the rank of officers on special has indicted the regime of former duty after the UN panel submit- President Pervez Musharraf for ted its report on the facts and cir- providing inadequate security to cumstances of Bhutto's assassi- Bhutto. nation in December 2007. According to the report, secuMeanwhile, an anti-terrorism rity arrangements at the venue court in Rawalpindi accepted a where Bhutto addressed a rally plea by the FIA seeking 14 days minutes before her death were to conduct a fresh probe against also inadequate. -PTI

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Swami Nityananda arrested in Himachal SHIMLA/BANGALORE: Controversial godman Swami Nityananda, on the run since his sex romps were caught on tape and aired by TV channels, was arrested from a house in Solan district of Himachal Pradesh on April 21. Police recovered $7,000, Rs 3 lakh, three laptops, eight mobile phones, three video cameras from the house where Nityananda was staying since March 27. The house belonged to Satinder Singh from Delhi, who, the police said, would be questioned soon. Nityananda was later driven down to Shimla and questioned there. Dressed in flowing robe but sans his trademark tilak, he looked calm. A joint team of Karnataka and Himachal Pradesh police tracked his cellphone calls for two days and surrounded the house in the isolated Shivshankargarh area in Solan. The police team from Bangalore, headed by two DSPs, had reached Solan on April 19. Cops took the help of a CID team from Shimla, before swooping down on the house. Assistant superintendent of police, Solan, Ramesh Pathania,

Swami Paramhamsa Nityananda is taken in custody at the police criminal investigation department office in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh state, on April 21

said the swami was wanted by Kanataka police in two cases under Sections 295A (deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or reli-

gious beliefs), 376 (punishment for rape), 377 (unnatural sex), 420 (cheating and dishonestly inducing delivery of property), 506 (criminal intimidation) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of IPC.

After the tapes of Nityananda with a Tamil actress were aired on TV on March 3, the godman's former driver Kuruppan Lenin filed a complaint with the Chennai police commissioner, while an-

other case was registered at Coimbatore by Vishwanath for hurting the religious sentiments of Hindus. Bidadi police registered the cases based on the two complaints. The cases were handed to the CID, after which the CID sleuths started getting complaints from overseas through e-mail. A court in Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu had issued a non-bailable warrant against him with the direction to produce him before the court on May 20, police said. His four aides have been identified by cops as Gopal Salem Reddy, Mithya Bhakta Nanda, Arun Raj and Arpil Sangil. In Bangalore, CID DG Dr D V Guruprasad said a CID team conducted a search on the ashram and seized important documents, including hard disks. Nityananda's lawyers said they were ready for a legal battle. A legal team is will move court in Bangalore. Nityananda has rejected sex scandal allegations against him. He resigned in March as the head of 'Dhyanapeetham', which he had founded near Bidadi on the outskirts of Bangalore.

'Nuke Liability Bill not being brought under foreign pressure' NEW DELHI: The Government has refuted the charge that the Nuclear Liability Bill was being brought under foreign pressure and said it is willing to refer the measure to a Parliamentary Standing Committee for scrutiny. The bill, which provides for compensation in case of a nuclear accident, is a key step in operationalising the Indo- US nuclear deal. "Parliament is the right forum (to discuss the Bill). If the House wants to send the Bill to a Parliamentary Standing Committee, we will do (that)," Minister of State in Prime Minister's Office Prithviraj Chavan said in Rajya Sabha. He said during Question Hour that the Bill has been under consideration for very long as the Public Liability Insurance Act of 1991 (enacted in the aftermath of the Bhopal gas tragedy in 1984) is not applicable to nuclear incidents. "Thus, at present there is no law to provide compensation to the victims of a nuclear incident. Is there any pressure (from foreign companies to bring the Bill)? Absolutely none," he said.

"I refute the charge that the Bill is being brought under pressure from any particular country," Chavan said. The Government, he said, in-

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Nuclear power plants can only be set up either by the Central Government itself or through any authority or corporation established by it or a Central Government company,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; he said. Government proposes to buy nuclear reactors from abroad but the same would be operated by Government companies tends to produce a Bill in Lok Sabha to provide for civil liability for nuclear damages. He, however, did not put a timeframe for its introduction.

Chavan said there was no question of any foreign company setting up a nuclear power plant in the country as the Atomic Energy Act prohibits any firm other then a PSU to set up and operate nuclear plants in India. "Nuclear power plants can only be set up either by the Central Government itself or through any authority or corporation established by it or a Central Government company," he said. Government proposes to buy nuclear reactors from abroad but the same would be operated by Government companies. India, he said, was negotiating with three countries for supply of nuclear reactors and all feel that the liability, in case of an accident, should be channeled to the operator. "It is absolute liability of the operator in case of any incident," he said. "The proposed legislation provides for prompt compensation to the victims of a nuclear incident." "The Bill facilitates payment of compensation by enforcing no-fault liability on the operator of a nuclear installation," he said. -PTI

SAVING WATER: Indian school children hold Save Water placards as they stand near India Gate during a World Earth Day rally organised by the local Rotary Club chapter, UNESCO and WWF in New Delhi on April 22. A scroll signed by 100,000 pupils pledging to save 60 million litres of water annually for Delhi was presented to President Prathiba Singh Patil

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Study challenges IPCC's Bangladesh Google got 142 requests from India to remove info climate predictions DHAKA: Scientists in Bangladesh posed a fresh challenge to the UN's top climate change panel, saying its doomsday forecasts for the country in the body's landmark 2007 report were overblown. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), already under fire for errors in the 2007 report, had said a one-meter (three-foot) rise in sea levels would flood 17 per cent of Bangladesh and create 20 million refugees by 2050. The warning helped create a widespread consensus that the low-lying country was on the "front line" of climate change, but a new study argues the IPCC ignored the role sediment plays in countering sea level rises. IPCC chairman Rajendra Pachauri defended his organization's Bangladesh predictions, warning that "on the basis

of one study one cannot jump to conclusions". "The IPCC looks at a range of publications before we take a balanced view on what's likely to

‘Previous ‘studies on the effects of climate change in Bangladesh, including those quoted by the IPCC, did not consider the role of sediment in the growth and adjustment process of the country's coast and rivers’ happen," he told AFP by telephone. But the IPCC's prediction did not take into account the one billion tonnes of sediment carried by

Himalayan rivers into Bangladesh every year, the study funded by the Asian Development Bank said. "Sediments have been shaping Bangladesh's coast for thousands of years," said Maminul Haque Sarker, director of the Dhakabased Center for Environment and Geographic Information Services (CEGIS), who led research for the study. Previous "studies on the effects of climate change in Bangladesh, including those quoted by the IPCC, did not consider the role of sediment in the growth and adjustment process of the country's coast and rivers," he told AFP. Even if sea levels rise a maximum one meter in line with the IPCC's 2007 predictions, the new study indicates most of Bangladesh's coastline will remain intact, said Sarker. -PTI

Oxford days of Manmohan, Indira highlight of exhibition LONDON: The little known sides of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Indira Gandhi and eight other famous alumnus of Oxford University from Asia are brought to light in a unique exhibition at their alma mater here. The exhibition focuses on 10 Oxford graduates from south Asia, including Manmohan Singh, who has a D.Phil from the ancient university. The exhibition titled Oxasians, shows the lives of ten individuals who came to Oxford to study between 1889 and 2009. The unusual and unknown sides of the 10 individuals are brought to life through a combination of dramatizations by actors with life-size hologram style projections and exclusive film interviews alongside archival material. Besides Singh and Gandhi, the unknown sides of Cornelia Sorabji, the first woman to study law at Oxford and the first female Indian barrister, father-son cricket duo Iftikar Ali Khan Pataudi and Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi and former Pakistani Premier Benazir Bhutto will be brought to life. Oxford's south Asian community has long been an important part of the university's diverse student body, and the ten individuals featured in the exhibit span 120 years of this history. Indian students are today the sixth-largest national population

at Oxford. The university currently has around 450 South Asian students, along with more than 1,100 alumni and six alumni branches in India alone. The Oxasians exhibit also looks to the future by featuring British Indian Rajeeb Dey, a 2009 graduate and former president of Oxford Entrepreneurs. In 2005 Dey founded Enternships.com, a venture providing 'entrepreneurial internships' to students. Oxford's South Asian history

traces back around 400 years: The first recorded Englishman to arrive in India was from Oxford (Father Thomas Stephens from New College, in 1579). His letters lay the foundation of Anglo-Indian literature. The University's relationship with South Asia remains stronger than ever in the 21st century. In 2008, the University of Oxford launched the one-year MSc in Contemporary India, the first of its kind in the world.-PTI

NEW YORK: Internet major According to Google, other Google, which recently pulled out nations with maximum requests of China due to censorship issues, for the data were France (846), Italy has ranked India third in a list of (550), Germany (458), Spain (324), countries from which it receives Australia (155), Argentina (98) requests for censoring informa- and Poland (86). tion. In both lists, information about For the first time, Google has China has not been included since published a country-wise list of Chinese officials "consider centhe number of requests received sorship demands as state sefrom governments, seeking either crets", Google said. removal of information or more Removal requests ask for redetails. The list is based on removal of content from Google quests made to Google between search results or from another July 1, 2009 and December 31, Google product, including 2009. YouTube, while data requests As per the list, Google received seek information about Google maximum removal requests from user accounts or products. Brazil (291), followed by Germany (188) and InFor Brazil and India, requests dia (142). The number of re- for content removal are high quest for removal of information from India relative to other countries in was higher than that part because of the from the US (123). popularity of the social "For Brazil and India, requests for content re- networking website, Orkut moval are high relative to other countries in part because of the popularity of Pointing out that statistics are our social networking website, not "100 per cent comprehensive Orkut. The majority of the Brazil- or accurate", Google said the list ian and Indian requests for re- primarily cover requests in crimimoval of content from Orkut re- nal matters. late to alleged impersonation or Apart from requests got didefamation," Google said in a rectly from the government agenstatement here. cies, the search engine has inOther countries in the list are cluded statistics on court orders South Korea (64), the UK (59), Italy for the removal of content, which (57), Argentina (42), Spain (32), often originate from private-party Australia (17) and Canada (16). disputes. In terms of seeking data, Brazil The search engine said it has is again at the top with 3,663 re- not included statistics for counquests, while India is at the fourth tries where it received fewer than place with 1,061 requests. India is 30 requests for user data in crimibehind the US (3,580) and the UK nal cases during the six-month (1,166). period. -PTI

'Enhancement in security for Quash charges against policemen in Shopian case: CBI tells HC Indians in Afghanistan' NEW DELHI: The Government has said it has comprehensively reviewed and enhanced security measures required for the safety of the Indians working in Afghanistan. Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi told Rajya Sabha in a written reply that Government was in regular touch with the establishment in Afghanistan to ensure necessary security measures for Indians living there. About 3,500 Indians are engaged in various construction projects there, including those related to infrastructure development, healthcare and social capacity building. Ravi said Indian nationals registered with the Embassy in Kabul

are regularly advised about the prevailing security scenario in the country through advisories. These Advisories outline the precautions that need to be taken for their own safety and security during their movement within the country, he said. Minister of State for External Affairs Preneet Kaur had told Lok Sabha that 17 Indians engaged in projects in Afghanistan have died since 2008 but India would not scale down its activities there. In 2008, nine Indians had lost their lives including seven in the terror attack on its Embassy in Kabul, one in 2009 (a private firm employee) and seven in 2010 (in a terror attack on a hotel). -PTI

SRINAGAR: CBI has again approached the Jammu and Kashmir High Court seeking dismissal of criminal charges against four policemen, including then Shopian Superintendent of Police Javed Mattoo, arrested for alleged destruction of evidence in connection with death of two women. Submitting a fresh affidavit in the High Court recently, the CBI gave details about the lie-detector test conducted on the four police officials and said "no deception was found on their part in reply to any of the questions put to them." Besides Mattoo, the three others who continue to be sus-

pended since July last year are Deputy Superintendent of Police Rohit Basgotra, Station House Officer Shafiq Ahmed and Head Constable Gazi Abdul Kareem. "Further, no criminality could be attributed to anyone of them and as such they have been sought to be discharged from this case," the CBI affidavit said. CBI had approached the High Court in March this year seeking an end to the monitoring of the case by the High Court as the agency had already filed a chargesheet against 13 people including doctors and lawyers. The case relates to death of two women -- Neelofar (22) and Aasiya (17). -PTI

Desi News Manav Seva raises $100,000 to expand facilities RAMESH SOPARAWALA & SURESH BODIWALA India Post News Service

COMMUNITY ACROSS AMERICA

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Vijay Gandhi appointed Federal Magistrate Judge

April 30, 2010

Details on page 18

Five city councils to open with Hindu mantras DB DESAI

United Senior Parivar celebrates second anniversary SURESH SHAH

CHICAGO: United Seniors Parivar (USP), a no profit body of senior residents in Chicagoland, celebrated its second anniversary with enthusiasm and fan fare at Cathy Hall in Niles, a north west Chicago suburb. Mayor of Skokie George Van Duson was the chief guest while a large number of Chicago businessmen, community activists, senior citizens and Parivar members participated in near four hours of get together and entertainment followed with dinner. Details on page 14

Marathi one-act play competition in Chicago SURESH BODIWALA

CHICAGO: In an effort to boost the Marathi theatre in the US, Maharashtra Mandal Chicago (MMC) in association with the Marathi Naatya Parishad and Brihan Maharashtra Mandal (BMM) organized the Second National Marathi One Act Play Competition popularly known as - "Ekankika Spardha" at Gorton Community Center, Lake Forest, on April 10 and 11. Ekankika featured 12 plays by bringing to the city some of the globally acclaimed plays. Details on page 17

FRESNO: Four city councils in California and one in Nevada are opening their meetings with Hindu prayers containing ancient Sanskrit shlokas next month. Rajan Zed, Hindu and Indo-

Zed plans to recite from Rig-Veda, the oldest scripture of the world still in common use, dated from around 1,500 BCE, besides lines from Upanishads and Bhagavad-Gita (Song of the Lord) American activist, is reciting these prayers before city councils of Bakersfield, Fresno, Modesto, and Yuba City in California and Henderson in Nevada. Zed, who heads the Universal Society of Hinduism, is delivering

Rajan Zed at Alaska House of Representatives with the staff before reading the invocation on April 9.

these prayers from ancient Hindu scriptures at Yuba City (May four), Bakersfield (May five), Modesto (May 11), Fresno (May 13) and Henderson (May 18). After first reciting in Sanskrit, he will then read the English translation of the prayer. Sanskrit is considered a sacred language in Hinduism and

root language of Indo-European languages. Zed plans to recite from RigVeda, the oldest scripture of the world still in common use, dated from around 1,500 BCE, besides lines from Upanishads and Bhagavad-Gita (Song of the Lord), both ancient Hindu scriptures. He

will start and end the prayer with "Om", the mystical syllable containing the universe, which in Hinduism is used to introduce and conclude religious work. Rajan Zed has been awarded "World Interfaith Leader Award" by National Association of Interchurch and Interfaith Families.

Hindus upset over 'Sita Sings the Blues' India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: Hindus in the New Jersey area who watched a PBS broadcast of Nina Paley's animated feature 'Sita Sings the Blues' last weekend are upset over the denigration of the revered Ramayana. The Forum for Hindu Awakening said it had received calls from upset Hindus from the New Jersey area, saying that they had

seen ads about PBS broadcasting Nina Paley's 'Sita Sings the Blues' on New York's Channel Thirteen.

Forum for Hindu Awakening has contacted PBS Ombudsman Michael Getler as well as Channel

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;PBS may not be aware that 'Sita sings the blues' is a denigrating parody on the Hindus' revered holy epic scripture Ramayan This animation was repeatedly broadcast on the channel.

Thirteen, seeking an immediate stop to this broadcasting. In a let-

ter to Getler and Channel Thirteen, Bhavna Shinde of Forum for Hindu Awakening wrote, "PBS may not be aware that 'Sita sings the blues' is a denigrating parody on the Hindus' revered holy epic scripture Ramayan. Ramayan is the story of Lord Rama, who is worshipped by Hindus as an Incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the divine Principle of Sustenance (Sthititattva). Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 13

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Manav Seva raises $100,000 to expand facilities

Manav Seva Mandir 2010-2011Management Team - Board of Trustees, Executive Board, Directors and Co-Opt Directors

Lamp Lighting ceremony being performed at the start of program

coordinator, picked up the same theme and made a strong appeal for funds for rendering health benefits to needy while Dr. Manoj Shah and Dr. Shirish Shah underlined the need for improving infrastructural facilities and install-

RAMESH SOPARAWALA & SURESH BODIWALA India Post News Service

CHICAGO: Speaker after speaker made a strong pitch for raising funds for improving infrastructural facilities and bettering health care services for the community at large at Manav Seva Mandir (MSM) annual fundraiser gala and dinner held last week at Mahalaxmi Hall of the Mandir in Bensenville. Probably the strongest urging came from Frank Soto, President of Bensenville Village. Citing an oft quoted economy theory on the Velocity of Money, Chief Guest Soto said that the economy especially that of the country like USA, shows improvement faster the money changes hands. The money given to service organizations like Manav Seva Mandir would have ten time more velocity than when spent

Some of the guests L to R Babu Patel, Naren Patel, Dr. Bharat Barai, Mafat Patel and Dr. VK Patel

and expressed confidence that Indians and Indian Americans here would rise to the occasion, and help the Mandir management to reach their target. He also mentioned that his consulate office can arrange future town hall type

Citing an oft quoted economy theory on the Velocity of Money, Chief Guest Soto said that the economy especially that of the country like USA, shows improvement faster the money changes hands

Village President Frank Soto (left) with MSM Trustee Board Chair Dr. Barai

elsewhere as it is used for community projects like health care, he said. Addressing over 600 members, guests and invitees, Dr. Bharat

Barai Chairman Board of Trustees set the ball rolling appealing for funds to improve health care for seniors and the community members at large. Dr. VK Patel, program

ing technologically advanced audio video equipments in the main hall. Indian Consul General Ashok Kumar Attri, one of the honored guests, had come with his wife Usha Kiron. In his brief address, he praised various activities and projects undertaken by the Mandir

meetings in the temple auditorium with involvement of MSM to address various questions and concerns relating to various categories of Indian visas and other immigration issues pertaining to Indian-American Diaspora residing in Chicagoland area. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 13

'Rang-Rangili Holi' by Anila Sinha Foundation SURESH SHAH

CHICAGO: Anila Sinha Foundation (ASF) has announced the launch of its 2010 season with a thrilling performance of "Rang Rangili Holi" at Hindu Mandir of Lake County, Grayslake, a north side Chicago suburb, on May 22 beginning at 5 pm. The Holi program is a unique dance presentation narrated and acted out in Kathak style. The theme depicts the festival of Holi in full swing; the tumult and deafening noise of Mridang and Daf, (percussion instruments); and the son of Yashoda, Krishna, engrossed in riotous play of colors. It is going to be an exciting, fun filled and memorable experience for the audience, who sometimes also become participants. The program is packed with enticing dance, live music ensemble, special Indian foods, sweets and a small 'Haat-bazaar' where you can buy some gift articles from India or enjoy Indian Mehandi (Henna). This year the festival of Holi came so early in

ASF artists presenting Kathak program at one of their recent performances

the cold season, that many people did not have chance to really celebrate it. Well, here is another chance to celebrate Holi. The setting replicates Holi festivity with Kathak dance, live music, food and fun. ASF , a not-for profit organization, was established in 1998 in memory of Mrs. Anila Sinha, who

was an accomplished Kathak dancer and a pioneer in promotion of North Indian classical performing arts in North America. The Foundation seeks to present, promote and preserve the performing arts of India; instill the values of Indian art and heritage among the younger generation and cultivate cross-cultural understanding

among our students, who are both Indian and mainstream American. To implement these goals through dance and music education, the Foundation has established Kathak Nrityakala Kendra in the Chicagoland area, an academy of Kathak Dance and Music, which is the only Kathak dance institute affiliated with the leading

music university in India, Prayag Sangeet Samiti. It offers several courses in Kathak dance as well as allied subjects like vocal music, tabla, pakhawaj and Yoga. The Kathak Nrityakala Kendra has a Production Unit which strives to enrich the repertoire and technique of Kathak through experimental work.

April 30, 2010

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Manav Seva raises $100,000 to expand facilities Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 12

Subsequent speakers namely Dr. Manoj Shah and Dr. Satish Shah also added that auditorium urgently needs a high definition audio-visual system installed in this community hall. Further it is a future vision of the temple BOT to add additional medical and diagnostic services like offering health clinic every week, obtain laboratory and radiological equipment etc. To accomplish these various services, upgrading and enlarging infrastructure etc, funds are sorely needed, they added. To give impetus to the fund raising efforts, Dr. Barai announced that he would donate 10 per of the total amount raised up to $10,000 minimum guaranteed. The appeal from speaker after speaker was well received and the reports are that the target of $100,000 was crossed at the end of the day. Dr. Barai said that the Mandir has been already running a once in a month medical clinic that revolved round examining, advising , diagnosing and offering medicines in select cases to the patients but that was not considered enough as the demand is growing fast. The clinic run by volunteers and doctors needs to

be expanded further to distribute more medicine, including giving swine flu and regular flu shots. He also said that the Mandir was organizing health care camps twice a year and these camps are well patronized.

Dr. Barai said that the Mandir has been already running a once in a month medical clinic that revolved round examining, advising , diagnosing and offering medicines in select cases to the patients but that was not considered enough as the demand is growing fast With the availability of more volunteering physicians, pharmacists and healthcare personnel, MSM management could think of more such camps a year. Mandir has been celebrating

Hindus upset over 'Sita Sings the Blues' Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 11

Lord Rama is worshipped as the perfect son, brother, friend, husband, king, warrior, enemy, basically, the Perfect Being, an embodiment of all divine virtues. It requires a sense of deep inquiry, borne of devoted study, contemplation and practice of the Holy Scriptures like Ramayan to appreciate and depict the characters in them. Nina Paley's parody of this holy scripture shows a lack of such deep inquiry and understanding of the scripture." While drawing attention to Hinduism's tradition that encourages insightful depictions of the Holy Scriptures as would promote reflection on the divine, Shinde reiterated that Hindus are very much for artistic depiction and freedom of expression. However, she emphasized, "We protest such depictions as 'Sita sings the blues' that insult the revered symbols and hurt the devotees. In the past, several Hindu organizations and practicing Hindus have deplored this creation by Paley." Shinde expressed concern that

PBS will be showing Hindus' Holy Scripture and revered deities in a poor light by broadcasting this animation. "It would convey a wrong message about Hinduism especially to the non-Hindu audiences of PBS and to the children watching PBS shows. As a non-

Shinde has urged PBS and Channel Thirteen to immediately stop broadcasting 'Sita sings the blues' as a gesture of goodwill towards the Hindu community that is being hurt by this denigration profit TV network, we hope that PBS will respect the Hindu community's feelings," she added. Shinde has urged PBS and Channel Thirteen to immediately stop broadcasting 'Sita sings the blues' as a gesture of goodwill towards the Hindu community that is being hurt by this denigration.

Padmini Rao singing

all major festivals and has been conducting classes for students. A special mention was made of MedStar Laboratories and its CEO Naren Patel for conducting lab tests at no or minimum cost. Among Chicago elites present on the occasion were Mafatbhai Patel CEO of Patel Brothers, Naren Patel Chairman of Medstar laboratory Inc, Beena Patel Chief Deputy Clerk Cook County, Rohit Maniar, a noted banker, Bensenville Fire Chief Michael Spain and Dr. C.L. Shashtri among others. After inaugural prayer, Master of Ceremony Dr. Ishwarbhai K Patel made brief remarks regarding the goal mentioning that the foundation of MSM was laid about 25 years ago by few dedicated volunteers. He then introduced Trustee Board Chairman Dr Barai. Ever since, this place of worship has come a long way

expanding its services besides daily prayers. There are other additional prayer services like Satyanarayana Pooja every 1st Sunday of the month. Live singing of bhajans and kirtans, adult meditation classes, youth religious classes etc. are performed on two different Sundays each month. Special celebrations are also held on festivals like Diwali, New Year, Holi, Navaratri, Ram Navmi etc. The temple also has outreach youth programs for Indian Diaspora like learning of Indian religion culture and languages like Gujarati, Hindi and Sanskrit etc. The dinner was followed by a musical concert, presented by Saregamapa Orchestra on the occasion. Singer Padmini and Hitesh Master held the audience spellbound with their Bollywood numbers. The event concluded with vote of thanks by Dr. Manoj Shah.

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April 30, 2010

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United Senior Parivar celebrates Bay Area CC Foundation: A role model second anniversary ANUPAMA PATEL

SURESH SHAH

Memento presented to Mr. George Van Duson, Mayor of Skokie Village from left to right Mafatbhai Patel Chairmen Board of Trustees USP, Ramanlal Patel President of USP and Mayor of Skokie Village

related advice. He thanked all the members, volunteers and trustees for the Parivar achievements in the past two years and pitched for continued support. Mayor Duson in his speech mentioned that he was overwhelmed by variety of activities

heartily by seniors present. Mafat Patel one of the foremost supporters of the organization expressed satisfaction at the work done by Parivar and assured that he would continue to be rendering all possible help for the welfare of seniors. He presented Shawls to seven seniors who reached 80 years age. Also honored were those whose birthdays fell in the month of April. Dr. Bharat Barai, a veteran community leader, talked about the need of health care for uninsured and seniors. He pitched for organizing seminars and health care fairs by USP. He said that he could help enlisting the services of physicians and other medical professionals for this purpose. Naren Patel, president of AIA, Usha Kamaria, an activist in NilesSkokie and Des Plaines area, Rohit Maniar, a banker and others also spoke on occasion and promised all possible help. The organizers

Dr. Bharat Barai, a veteran community leader, talked about the need of health

Chief Guest Mafat Patel being honored by CC Foundation office bearers (L-R) Ratibhai Patel, Babu Bhai, Mafatbhai, Kanti Patel

CHICAGO: Mafat Patel, often described as uncrowned King of Devon Avenue in Chicago, took special pains flying to Hayward in California to attend an annual fundraising event of Charitable Care Foundation, a seventeen-year old service organization in the Bay Area. Like Mafat Patel there were hundreds of others from the Bay

over half a dozen education and health care facilities in India, including one rendering eye care. Vinod Patel, secretary, said that the funds being raised now would be offered to a cancer organization in India. "We have sought applications and the Board would decide where to channelise the funds," he said.

The Foundation has helped victims of 9/11 attack, Tsunami storms, homeless because of devastating Katrina, Haiti earthquake, Gujarat earthquake and over half a dozen education and health care facilities in India

care for uninsured and seniors. He pitched for organizing seminars and health care A cake cutting ceremony on second anniversary (L to R) Rohitbhai Maniar, Ramanbhai Patel, Mafatbhai Patel, Dr. Bharat Barai, Ushaben Kamaria, Dr VK Patel, Babu Patel and others

Duson was the chief guest while a large number of Chicago businessmen, community activists, senior citizens and Parivar members participated in near four hours of get together and entertainment followed with dinner. The start was with the lighting of traditional lamp by the Chief Guest Duson, members of the Trustee Board headed by Mafat Patel and some guests. Ramanbhai Patel, the president of the Parivar, welcomed the guests and briefed those present with the activities undertaken by the organization in the past two years. He said that Parivar had organized senior trips around Chicagoland and even outside Illinois. Large number of senior members participated and enjoyed the outings. He said that the seniors were also given extensive information and help for their medicare, medicaid and immigrations problems besides offering health

of the Parivar for seniors and pledged all possible help from his office. He said that Chicagoland needed more such organizations for making seniors lives more interesting and productive. He was given a big welcome by the Parivar President and was applauded

fairs by USP

Area attending the event held at Chabot College Auditorium. The biggest motivation was to give a push to the enormous humanitarian activities undertaken by the organization in recent years, and specifically now to raise funds for a cancer facility in Gujarat, India. CCF in its over one and half decade of ex-

The Foundation, he added, has been rendering yeomen services to a number of humanitarian causes around India and globally. Listing some of the activities helped by CCF, he said that the Foundation has successfully proffered funds for medical, surgical and emergency services, eye

had arranged for a slide presentation the various activities that were undertaken in the past two years. This was commended by all in one voice. Hasmukh Patel, vice president proposed a vote of thanks. The sumptuous dinner followed and was enjoyed by seniors and all.

CCF Raas by youth

Seven seniors of 80 years and older being honored with shawls

istence has raised over $15 million to help a number of noble causes. Kanti Patel, one of the senior members of the Trustee Board, said that the Foundation has helped victims of 9/11 attack, Tsunami storms, homeless because of devastating Katrina, Haiti earthquake, Gujarat earthquake and

camps, educational and hospital buildings, medical and surgical equipments, senior housing, facilities for battered women, food packets distribution during Thanks Giving, helping victims of natural disasters like cyclone, earth quakes and flood. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 16

Community Across America

April 30, 2010

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Mithaas opens in Jersey City India Post News Service

NEW JERSEY: Mithaas, the first restaurant in New Jersey to transform traditional Indian fast food into a modern dining experience, has opened its new location on Newark Avenue in Jersey City. The opening was celebrated with a launch party April 14. "We want to cater to the varied Jersey City palate, so have also added South Indian delicacies," said Kamal Arora, the brainchild behind the Mithaas concept and the CEO of Moghul Catering. Under his belt, Arora counts the wildly popular Urban Spice restaurant and the Moghul Express eatery on Oaktree Road in Edison, NJ. The Mithaas in Jersey City is his first outing there and plan to feature popular Mumbai style street favorites like

Matrimonial website for the differently-abled India Post News Service

NEW YORK: BharatMatrimony.com, the leading Matrimony Portal, has launched a new matrimonial website www.abilitymatrimony.com on the eve of celebrating Matrimony Day. The new website - AbilityMatrimony.com is an exclusive matrimonial site that will offer free match making services to the differentlyabled audiences across the globe. The website aspires to connect its differently-abled members and its new audiences on this new platform to help and as-

‘This is our third website launch on the social initiative front. We have taken this path to change the outlook of the differently-abled audiences and their marriage. We are glad to have taken this initiative and extend our commitment to create meaningful approaches to people who are most in need’

sist them find suitable partners. One can search a suitable partner from the huge database of profiles available and can seek support on a 24x7 basis. Murugavel Janakiraman, Founder & CEO BharatMatrimony said: "This is our third website launch on the social initiative front. We have taken this path to change the outlook of the differently-abled audiences and their marriage. We are glad to have taken this initiative and extend our commitment to create meaningful approaches to people who are most in need."

‘We want to cater to the varied Jersey City palate, so have also added South Indian delicacies,’ said Kamal Arora, the brainchild behind the Mithaas concept and the CEO of Moghul Catering

Kamal Arora with members of his staff at Mithaas Jersey City (pic:Gunjesh Desai/ MasalaJunction.com)

the Frankie and Dabeli. Mithaas Jersey City is open for business and customers are treated not only to the delectable and strictly vegetarian food items but also to innovative thirst quenchers like Masala Soda, Rose Shake and the traditional Thandai, a quintessential summer favorite. A perfect neighborhood hangout joint for traditional Indian mithais and snacks, Mithaas promises to be a welcome addition on Newark Avenue, poised to sensationalize the Indian row.

Community Across America

India Post

April 30, 2010

www.indiapost.com

FIA gears up for upcoming programs Bay Area CC Foundation: MOHAMMED GHOUSE

A role model

CHICAGO: The pre kick off meet of the Federation of Indian Associations (FIA) headed by Sunny Gabhawala was held here last week at Punjabi Dhaba and it was attended by newly elected

Sunil Shah and other office bearers have challenged Gabhawala and the new Board elections in the Court and the matter is sub judice office bearers and other members. Gabhawala in his address briefed the attending members about the activities that FIA would undertake during the course of the year and invited suggestions from the members at large. He also updated those

Cont’d from page 14

FIA office bearers and guests at pre kick-off meet

present with the Court proceedings. Sunil Shah and other office bearers have challenged Gabhawala and the new Board elections in the Court and the matter is sub judice. Gabhawala however, indicated that the Court is for amicable settlement between the rival groups but has not barred FIA from undertaking its usual

Teens using drugs, alcohol -perception & realty SURESH BODIWALA

NILES: The Niles Township Youth Coalition (NTYC) recently held a town hall meeting titled "Raising Teens: A Risky Business", at Niles West High School

District 219 has implemented a social norms marketing approach to risktaking behaviors since 2007. Results to date are very promising as students are exposed to a number of positive marketing strategies in Skokie, a north side Chicago suburb. The meeting began with a summary of results from the social norms survey recently completed

at Niles North and Niles West High Schools and provided parents an opportunity to ask questions. District 219 has implemented a social norms marketing approach to risk-taking behaviors since 2007. Results to date are very promising as students are exposed to a number of positive marketing strategies and begin to understand what is really occurring in District 219. Social Norms Marketing is the process of applying marketing concepts to social and health topics by promoting positive norms practiced by the majority of the group. If done correctly, the program does produce results. Many school districts have documented an impressive increase in non-use of both alcohol and tobacco among high school students. It works because people misperceive the prevalence of risky behaviors associated with alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. Cont’d on page 21

activities. The kick-off meeting is slated in the first week of May. Meanwhile, Gabhawala announced induction of Kalpesh Joshi in place of Shahid Rizvi as new secretary. Shahid, it is reported, has ceased to be Secretary though elected as he did not take oath during Republic Day celebrations at India House in Schaumburg.

Bollywood dances. The program, they said, commenced at 3 pm and went till 11 pm. There was pin drop silence and huge enthusiasm throughout among participants and the attendees alike.

Mafat Patel, who was Chief Guest of the event, said that the other inducing factor for him to attend the event was the cultural extravaganza offered by the Foundation. "The age old Gujarati cultural heritage is being preserved by organizations like CCF which has been staging folk dance competitions and I feel proud of them, and would like to be actively associated CCF Garba by young ones. with the cause," he (Pics courtesy Sunil Kelkar) said. As described by Kanti Patel Mafat Patel announced a 10 perand Vinod Patel, there were 500 cent donation of his own of the tarparticipants -children, youth and get set by the Foundation. The toadults backed by 40 plus chore- tal funds raised, according to Kanti ographers competing in different Patel exceeded the target of $35,000. categories thru presenting 45 Winners of the competition were items of Raas Garba and awarded trophies and prizes.

'Coming together' cultural celebration in Skokie SURESH BODIWALA

CHICAGO: Rigorous threemonth efforts to bring diverse cultures together culminated in "Coming together in Skokie" celebrations in Skokie on April 15. Organized by Usha Kamaria, the president of Niles Township the event drew many dignitaries such as -Van Dusen Mayor of Skokie, Susan Van Dusen the first lady of the Skokie village, Carolyn Anthony director of the

‘This new Coming Together in Skokie initiative will become an annual tradition that provides opportunities for the community to come to the schools and see first hand the diversity and talents of our students’ Skokie Public Library, Dr. Nanciann Gatta, Superintendent of School District 219, Rose Novil of Academic Affairs, Oakton Community College, Rohit Joshi counselor NIEU, Dr. Chandrakant Modi - Chairman of Indian Cremation Society of Chicagoland NFP, Dina (Dinta)

Coming together in Skokie village members and invited guest

Chandrakant Modi, Collector of Niles Township and others. Usha Kamaria, president said "we are trend-setters and such get-togethers are important for diverse communities to share and to mingle into one community." Dr. Nanciann Gatta, Superintendent of School commented that "this new Coming Together in Skokie initiative will become an annual tradition that provides opportunities for the community to come to the schools and see first hand the diversity and talents of our students. We believe our Niles West High School buildings should not just be schools, but true community centers for the citizens of our township." Susan Van Dusen, the first

lady of Skokie said that it was a learning and gaining experience. "Our current mission has helped us get close to Indian culture, which is one of the richest cultural communities of our neighborhood," she added. A diverse moment which was started by Skokie village on January 7 was an umbrella group that fosters to develop better understanding among the diverse groups. Skokie is one of the most diverse communities in the nation, with more than 90 languages spoken and more than 50 nationalities represented. She said in future we will focus on other cultures that thrive in our community. It is through knowledge of each other that we can continue to live in peace and harmony.

Community Across America

April 30, 2010

India Post 17

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Children showcase talent at OSU India Night

'Telugu Singles Meet' in Dallas a great success MEGHA PANDYA

Ravi, Dinesh, Seshu and Raul

CORVALLIS, Oregon: The OSU Indian Association along with local Indian community at Corvallis, OR celebrated India Night 2010 on April 17 with a series of performances to showcase Indian culture. More than 700 people attended the event. The event kicked-off with a melodious innovation of Niti shlokas recited by the children from the Indian community. This

was followed by several other performances such as singing and dancing to Bollywood music by children as well as the ISA staff and students. The evening concluded with a breathtaking Bhangra piece performed by OSU students. It was an entertaining evening for all proud parents of the children who performed to showcase our rich culture.--RK

Suraj and Group singing opening shloka at India Night 2010 at Oregon State University

DALLAS, TX: Telugu Association of North America (TANA) and TeluguMatrimony.com (a part of BharatMatrimony.com) hosted a networking event for Telugu Singles on Saturday April 17 at the Westin Park Central hotel in Dallas. There was also a separate luncheon meeting for parents of singles arranged at Ruchi Palace Indian Restaurant in Carrollton, TX. Both these events were very successful in bringing more than 100 singles and parents together to meet and exchange their views. These events were co hosted by the local Telugu Association of North Texas (TANTEX). "TeluguMatrimony has conducted successful singles and parents events at the past two TANA Conventions. Keeping in mind the need for more such eligible singles meet, TANA for the first time arranged it in an out of conference ambiance. It has become a social challenge to our youth to choose right life partners and this is the most effective way of meeting face to face to exchange their views. TANA has identified the need of singles meet and teamed up with TeluguMatrimony to conduct these events on a regular basis at various cities across the USA" said, Prasad Thotakura, TANA Executive Vice-president. Cont’d on page 21

Gujarati Samaj celebrates Spring Festival ASHWIN PATEL

Cultural items by local artists, children, youth and adults.

ST. LOUIS: The Gujarati Samaj of St. Louis, Missouri, USA, set up in 1984 with the aim of preserving Gujarati culture in the community, celebrated Spring Festival 2010. Spring Festival was celebrated with enthusiasm in St. Louis by the Samaj on April 17 at the Mahatma Gandhi Center. The program started with light Gujarati food provided by board members, senior citizen group and youth club members. It turned out to be huge success judging from the attendance and the response from the participants. The cultural program started at 7 pm with American and Indian national anthems. This was followed by a prayer offered by local Bal Vihar students. Harish Patel, presi-

dent of Gujarati Samaj, welcomed all those present. The four hours program had 25 different items performed by mem-

Spring Festival was celebrated with enthusiasm in St. Louis by the Samaj on April 17 at the Mahatma Gandhi Center bers, small children, juniors and seniors who had dressed up in different costumes pertaining to spring. Cont’d on page 21

Marathi one-act play competition in Chicago SURESH BODIWALA

Maharashtra Mandal Chicago (MMC) volunteers and activists.

(L to R) Satyajit Kharkar (Master of Ceremony), Smita Talwalkar (Judge), Deepak Karanjikar (Judge), Jaydeep Buzruk (MMC President), Vishwas Sapkal (Consul & HOC)

sure to inspire theatre personalities and keep the theatre culture going. With eclectic ensemble of writing styles and subject matter, the competition was a one of a kind experience for the Chicagoans, which covered plays from renowned senior playwrights from Vijay Tendulkar and S. N. Naware to the contemporary playwrights Yogesh Soman, Rajeev Naik and Ambar Hadap. The panel of Dr. Mohan Agashe, Smita Talwalkar and Deepak Karanjikar judged the

With eclectic ensemble of writing styles and subject matter, the competition was one of a kind experience for the Chicagoans

competition. Viswas V. Sakpal, Consul and HOC, Consulate General of India, Chicago was the chief guest for the event. Over six hundred theatre enthusiasts from Chicago land and from California, Seattle WA, Colorado, Detroit MI, Cincinnati OH, New Jersey, and Florida thoroughly enjoyed two days extravaganza and complimented Maharashtra Mandal Chicago's hospitality and meticulous organization. Subhash Kelkar, Detroit, Kaala Pahad team

director thanked Ekaankika Spardha for their tireless effort and congratulated participants for their fabulous performance. Many eminent theater personalities including Dr. Shankar Rao Huprikar, a senior theater personality from Chicago land area, Anupama Dharkar, film actress and Suhas Tambe, play writer and critic were recognized during the occasion. They were felicitated for their contribution to Marathi Theatre Movement in Chicago and across the United States. A bouquet and memento was presented to them by Madhuri Joshi, Dr. Meena Nerurkar and MMC president Jaydeep Buzruk. The BMM 2011 Chicago convention convener Niteen Joshi, co-conveners Pankaj Akolkar and Sujeet Vaidya, and Media and Marketing Chairman Ramdas Thatte presented convention logo to the visitors and expressed gratitude for outpouring support, donations, and sponsorships that were secured during two day event. Cont’d on page 20

Community/California

India Post

April 30, 2010

www.indiapost.com

Cal News Sri Karunamayi in LA from May 7-11 India Post News Service

Vijay Gandhi appointed Federal Magistrate Judge India Post News Service

Santa Monica School wins Environment contest

n a historic first, Vijay "Jay" C. Gandhi was sworn in as a Magistrate Judge for the United States District Court for the Central District of California. Judge Gandhi is the first Indian American federal judge in the Central District and only the second Indian American federal judge in the history of the United States. At age 38, Judge Gandhi is also one of the youngest federal judges currently serving in the Central District. Judge Gandhi will sit in Los Angeles and will preside over matters arising from all three Divisions of the Court. The Central District of California is the largest district in the nation, serving more than 19 million people. "We are exceptionally proud of Judge Gandhi for his accomplishments, especially given his stead-

fast commitment to the South Asian community," said Joseph J. Centeno, president of the National

litigation partner at Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker LLP. He practiced law for nearly 12 years at the

Judge Gandhi has been repeatedly recognized as a "Rising Star Lawyer" in the "Super Lawyers" Edition of Law & Politics Magazine. He is also a prolific writer Vijay "Jay" C. Gandhi

Asian Pacific American Bar Association. "He will be an outstanding magistrate judge." Judge Gandhi was formerly a

firm, as an associate from 1998 to 2006, and as an equity partner, thereafter. He also worked on a full-time basis as a volunteer

Deputy District Attorney and firstchaired multiple jury trials as a prosecutor. Judge Gandhi has been repeatedly recognized as a "Rising Star Lawyer" in the "Super Lawyers" Edition of Law & Politics Magazine. He is also a prolific writer and speaker on securities and business litigation, and co-authored a book about securities law claims. Prior to joining Paul Hastings, Judge Gandhi clerked for the Honorable Kenneth M. Hoyt, U.S. District Court Judge for the Southern District of Texas. Judge Gandhi received his J.D. degree from the University of Southern California Law School, where he graduated Order of the Coif and received multiple American Jurisprudence awards. Judge Gandhi is also a Past President and Lifetime Member of the South Asian Bar Association of Southern California, an affiliate of NAPABA.

HCCC provides facts on Temple activities

India Post News Service India Post News Service

ROSEMEAD, CA: Santa Monica High School and Medea Creek Middle School are the first-place winners in the Edison Challenge, an environmental science competition. They were selected from dozens of teams participating in the fourth annual event co-sponsored by Edison International and the University of Southern California (USC). Sixty-seven student-teacher teams submitted original science projects related to energy and the environment. Hundreds of students, parents and teachers attended the awards ceremony Saturday. Details on page 20

Ahmedabad Xaviers Principal to meet alumni India Post News Service

LIVERMORE, CA: The Hindu Community and Cultural Center (HCCC) here has deplored the "misleading and incorrect information" given out by the print and television media in Bay Area about the HCCC plans to build the badly needed facilities at its Shiva-Vishnu Temple site on Arrowhead Avenue in Livermore. It has issued a press release to provide facts to the public over the issue. The release says, "The ShivaVishnu Temple is catering to the religious needs of the Hindu Diaspora since 1986. The Temple is built and functions per the ancient architecture and tradition respectively. It is one of the few traditional temples in the United States of America. The temple also provides a platform for Cultural, Educational and Senior's activities. The Human Services activities have become HCCC's pride serving the community at large. "The Temple is located on a 4acre land parcel to the West of Arrowhead Avenue. There are two 4-acre land parcels that HCCC has owned for more than a decade (making us the largest private land owner in Livermore, according to the City, paying our fair share of property taxes). We submitted a Master Plan to the City of Livermore that provides much needed infrastructure facil-

ity on our property. The Planning Commission has approved our Conditional Use Permit (CUP) after a lengthy public hearing in February 2010. However, a few of our neighbors have appealed the Planning Commission's decision to the Livermore City Council's public hearing is scheduled on May 10, 2010, and we would like to bring the key facts to your attention." In the press release, HCCC

these basic amenities for its devotees. The lack of infrastructure is what is contributing to the noise for the neighbors. The Master Plan approved by the Planning Commission provides for the required infrastructure. It further says, "Providing infrastructure does NOT result in any increase in the existing devotee attendance. The infrastructure provides the basic amenities to continue the present level of

‘The Shiva-Vishnu Temple is catering to the religious needs of the Hindu Diaspora since 1986. The Temple is built and functions per the ancient architecture and tradition respectively. It is one of the few traditional temples in the United States of America’ says, "We reiterate, HCCC is simply NOT expanding the Temple. We are just addressing the neighbors' concerns and providing basic amenities to our devotees. This is a very important point to be noted. "No indoor storage space exists for any of our needs. There is no indoor space for the devotees to eat food that is offered by the Temple as a part of religious offerings. More importantly, there is NO office space to perform the administrative functions. Rest rooms built many years ago are totally inadequate. Any other religious institution will provide

activities in dignity without disturbing the neighbors. It says, "We have included the following key features in the CUP Master Plan approved by the Planning Commission, in order to address the Neighbor's concerns. 1. Scaled down the square footages of the infrastructure facilities to 30,000 sq. ft. from 63,000 sq.ft. - more than a 50% cutback. This was done after listening to the concerns from neighbors. The square footage of the facilities when completed will still be less than 15% of the land against the allowed 35%. 2. Relocated the kitchen from

the present North-side of the Assembly Hall to the South-side of the Assembly Hall. This effectively addresses neighbors' concern about noise and odor. 3. Located storage rooms on the North-side of the existing Assembly Hall with a solid wall noise buffer that will further reduce the noise for the neighbors. Again this effectively addresses the neighbor's concern with noise. 4. Proposed to build an office building replacing the trailer office thus removing the existing eyesore. This effectively addresses the City's concern with the continuing presence of temporary trailer on site. 5. Provided permanent landscaped parking for, providing sufficient onsite parking beautifying the site. This effectively addresses neighbors' concern with dust from the dirt parking lots. 6. Provided curbside improvements on both sides of the Arrowhead Avenue for comfort, safety and convenience of pedestrians. This effectively addresses the neighbor's concern for pedestrians on Arrowhead Avenue. 7. Completed two independent traffic studies from professional traffic consultants recommended by the City of Livermore, both of whom concluded that there will be no traffic or parking impact on the neighborhood by the CUP approved by the Planning Commission. Cont’d on page 20

Community/California

April 30, 2010

India Post 19

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Sri Karunamayi in LA from May 7-11 India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: Renowned spiritual teacher Amma Sri Karunamayi will be holding satsang and mediation sessions in Los Angeles and Ventura from May 7 - 11. Among other highlights of her tour are: Individual Blessings, One-Day Meditation Retreat, Evening Yoga Retreat, and Healing Sacred Ayurvedic Fire (Homa). Over the last 16 years, Amma has made a huge impact in India, helping over half a million people in a poverty-torn area, with the establishment of a free hospital, mobile medical unit, free school, free college, free senior center, homes for the destitute and clean water. Recently, in conjunction with many world leaders and religious figures, including Former President Jimmy Carter, and His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Sri Karunamayi spoke at the Parliament of World Religions held in Melbourne, Australia. In her speech on "Religion Imperative for the Equality of Women and Girls," Sri Karunamayi brought attention to the universal plight of women and girls, aiming towards the elimination of mental and physical abuse, and the horrific sex sla-

very of young girls and women worldwide. Additionally, she spoke on combating global environmental destruction and promoted development of spiritual awareness on an individual level, universal compassion and understanding as the key to attaining world peace.

Amma is great inspiration and mentor to young people. This year, she has a special program called Saraswati Diksha available to students and young people ages 4 - 24 Amma is great inspiration and mentor to young people. This year, she has a special program called Saraswati Diksha available to students and young people ages 4 - 24. It is based on a tradition from India that encourages students to receive the light of learning and culture from the Goddess of Knowledge

Saraswati. It is considered doubly potent if this is received from a great soul, or "Mahatma" as many consider Amma to be. The initiation improves memory, abilities in school, the arts and languages, among other things.

SALDEF remembers life & contribution of Dorothy Height India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: The civil rights community and the country lost a pioneering voice for civil, women's and human rights on April 20. Dr.

career, she served as President Emeritus of the National Council of Negro Women and Chair of The Leadership Conference on Civil Rights, where she worked closely with a broad coalition of groups

Amma Sri Karunamayi

Whether one comes from this tradition or not, it is a very positive and memorable event for young people to receive this initiation from Amma. Any donations from the Saraswati Diksha go directly to Amma's free school in India which promotes education and is directed at eliminating the cycle of poverty.

Dr Dorothy Height

Dorothy Height, passed away at the age of 98 from natural causes. She will be remembered for her legacy of empowerment and over seven decades of community service. Throughout her distinguished

for several decades. Dr. Height was a leader in the civil rights movement beginning in the 1930s, when she participated in local protests in Harlem, NY. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 21

India Post

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April 30, 2010

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Ahmadiyya message of peace on bus ads India Post News service

LOS ANGELES: Ahmadiyya Muslim messages of peace, epitomized by their motto: "Love for All - Hatred for None," are being spread across Los Angeles' Inland Empire on 167 buses. One of them stops across the street from the Baitul Hameed Mosque on Ramona Ave. in Chino, one of two Southern California chapters of this peaceful, worldwide denomination of Islam. The campaign by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community of Greater Los Angeles and the Inland Empire aims to assert the Islamic principles of peaceful coexistence as part of a nationwide effort to denounce extremism and terrorism, and promote the true

guiding principles of Islam, which are peace with God and with mankind, freedom, loyalty to one's country, and justice for all. Islam teaches that a Muslim's duty is always to promote peace whenever and wherever possible, through one's righteous actions and compassionate example. The advertisement banners have been placed on 98 busses in Riverside County and 69 busses in San Bernardino County. Later on, the community plans to expand the advertising campaign to other parts of Los Angeles and Orange Counties in Southern California. Speaking on behalf of the community, Asim Ansari, president of the Inland Empire chapter said: "The true peaceful Islam is nothing like the hatred that is preached

by a very small but violent minority. "A handful of extremists do not represent Muslims or Islam, but their words and deeds are having a devastating effect on the community at large." A similar campaign of carrying messages of peace on buses has been undertaken by the members of the community in the UK with great success. In the UK, members have also distributed 100,000 'peace pamphlets' door-to-door. Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, worldwide leader of the International Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, said: "A true Muslim can never raise his voice in hatred against his fellow citizens, nor for that matter against the ruling authority or Government of the time”.

HCCC provides facts on Temple activities Cont’d from page 18

8. HCCC has been here much before any of the houses have been built. Further, if hypothetically, the 12 acres that HCCC owns on arrowhead is used for housing there would have been additionally more than 150 cars and others vehicles that would be going up and down every day - a significantly heavier traffic on most of the days of an year than the current patterns as indicated by the traffic reports commissioned by the city. 9. Complied with the City's green building ordinance. 10. Hindus temples are normally open lot longer than our temple operating hours. HCCC also says it has been supporting the community and City of Livermore. HCCC has cherished cordial relationship with vari-

ous entities such as Police & Fire departments, schools and not-forprofit organizations. HCCC has been helping the Livermore community with the following Human activities among others: 1. Provided Grants-in-Aid to many local charities (15 - 20 per year) 2. Yearly Thanksgiving Food Drives for Local Charities (1000 pounds of canned food to Alameda Food and County Bank; free meals to seniors and needy at the Open heart Kitchen) 3. Institute scholarships for local high schools 4. Provided Free Dictionary distribution to primary school kids in association with Rotary club. 5. Blanket distribution to Veterans. 6. Conducts Health Fairs for our devotees and Livermore residents.

It says, "Several of our devotees life and work in Livermore, including scientists at the worldfamous Lab. We are productive good citizens in our community and want to stay that way. In closing, the HCCC says, "We want to continue as a friendly organization in the community as we have for the past quarter century. We would very much like to continue to live as a good neighbor in the Springtown area. “We love Livermore. All we humbly ask is to let us practice our Hindu religion as guaranteed to all of us by this great country, United States of America that we all love, respect and cherish. The needed facilities and infrastructure will enable our devotees to practice our religion in dignity with little or no impact on the neighborhood."

Santa Monica School wins Environment Competition India Post News Service

ROSEMEAD, CA: Santa Monica High School and Medea Creek Middle School are the firstplace winners in the Edison Challenge, an environmental science competition. They were selected from dozens of teams participating in the fourth annual event cosponsored by Edison International and the University of Southern California (USC). Sixty-seven student-teacher teams submitted original science projects related to energy and the environment. Hundreds of students, parents and teachers at-

healthy, sustainable environment. Thanks for taking steps toward creating a greener future," he said. Santa Monica High School's team took first place for its Teach and Test program, measuring the bacteria levels at three ocean sites every week for the past year and reporting findings to various community members. Medea Creek Middle School from Oak Park won for its project on "energy vampires" to raise awareness of energy wasted by electrical devices when they appear to be turned off. Students conducted a "trick or treat" before Halloween canvassing the com-

Santa Monica High School's team took first place for its Teach and Test program, measuring the bacteria levels at three ocean sites every week for the past year and reporting findings to various community members tended the awards ceremony Saturday at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Bill Nye, popularly known as "Bill Nye The Science Guy," was a special guest speaker and presented winners with certificates. Stuart Hemphill, Southern California Edison's (SCE) senior vice president, Power Procurement, congratulated winners and competition participants. Edison International is the parent company of SCE. "This shows we can play a role in improving the air we breathe and the water we drink. Our hope is that your curiosity will lead you to learn more to help create a

munity at dusk dressed as vampires, knocking on doors and delivering brochures with energysaving tips. Team members and teachers from both first-place schools will spend a week on Catalina Island in June and participate in various activities at the USC Wrigley Marine Science Center. Second-place winners in the competition were Oak Park High School in Oak Park and Amargosa Creek Middle School in Lancaster. In May, these teams will spend four days visiting SCE's Big Creek Hydroelectric Facility in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Cont’d on page 21

Marathi one-act play competition in Chicago Cont’d from page 17

'Mukti Dhaam-Theatrix' by New Jersey team, written by Ambar Vinod Hadap and directed by Dr. Manoj Shahane; 'Nilaai Ani Pasara- Sanmitra- Utsahi Mitra Mandal' by California team written by Amruta Hardikar and directed by Amruta Hardikar and 'Ghar Doghanche' by Colorado Marathi Mandal, written by Vineeta Pimplekhare and directed by Madhura Gokhale were selected top one-act plays. The best individual performance award was given to A Sanjay Pachapande of Bay Area Marathi Mandal for his perfor-

mance in Beggar's Life and to Ashutosh Hadap of New Jersey for his performance in Mukti Dhaam. The best actress award was given to Madhura Gokhale of Colorado Marathi Mandal for her performance in Ghar Doghanche. The best director award was given to Dr. Manoj Shahane of Mukti Dhaam- Theatrix, New Jersey. All the categories in this section were conferred with trophy and certificates. The judge's choice special award for the most notable oneact play and script was given to Beggar's Life, written by Sanjay Pachapande of Bay Area Marathi Mandal, California.

Community/California

April 30, 2010

India Post 21

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Ahmedabad Xaviers Principal to meet alumni India Post News Service

LOS ANGELES: St. Xavier's College Ahmedabad has completed 50 golden years recently and is now ranked among the top 10 colleges in India. The Principal of the College Fr. Vincent Braganza is visiting the US to establish collaborations and exchange programs with three Jesuit Universities - University of San Francisco, Marquette University in Milwaukee, and Fairfield University in Connecticut. Fr. Vincent Braganza will be on the west coast between 26th April to 2nd May. He will move to the Chicago-Milwaukee area to be there from 3rd May to 9th

May, and he will be in the eastern sector from 10th to 16th of May. He is keenly interested in meeting and interfacing with alumni of the College. The weekend of 30th April, 1st & 2nd May has been reserved by him for alumni on the west coast. The weekend of 7th, 8th, 9th May is for the alumni in the central U.S.A., and the weekend of 14th, 15th, 16th May has been kept for alumni on the east coast. Dr. Kanti Patel (H.O.D. Economics Department) who is also Secretary of the Old Xavierites Association (TOXA) is already in the US, and is deputed to coordinate the visit of the Principal.

SALDEF remembers life & contribution of Dorothy Height Cont’d from page 19

Among the issues she initially worked on included efforts to prevent lynching of African Americans in the South, desegregating the armed forces, reforms to the criminal justice system, and establishing free access to public places. Throughout her career, she worked alongside such luminaries as the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Eleanor Roosevelt. For her dedication to fighting inequality she garnered many accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the Nation's highest civilian honor, by former President Bill Clinton, and the Congressional Gold Medal, in 2004 by then President George W. Bush. "Dr. Height was a truly historic figure in the civil rights community and her loss is one that will be felt in hearts across the county," stated SALDEF Managing Director Kavneet Singh. "Her legacy though will live on through the

countless people she has mentored and inspired to follow in her path to make sure that we truly do have an American where all people belong and are equal." In 2004, as part of an effort to

‘Dr. Height was a truly historic figure in the civil rights community and her loss is one that will be felt in hearts across the county’ honor and acknowledge her tremendous service and pioneering spirit, SALDEF inaugurated the Dorothy Height Coalition Building Award which recognizes leadership and collaborative efforts to achieve equality for all by an individual or organization.

'Telugu Singles Meet' in Dallas a great success Cont’d from page 17

"I was initially skeptical whether it was worth traveling from Chicago to Dallas just for this event. But meeting people face to face at such events is the perfect complement to contacting them online at TeluguMatrimony.com. I'd like to see a similar event organized in Chicago." said Srinivas, who came all the way from Chi-

cago to attend the Singles meet. Said Pavan, another attendee "I had a wonderful experience meeting others. The event was very well organized." "The next set of these events are planned in the month of July in Washington DC, Atlanta and Houston. Details to be announced soon on www.tana.org/ telugumatrimony.com." said Jayaram Komati, TANA President.

Gujarati Samaj celebrates Spring Festival

Santa Monica School wins Environment contest Cont’d from page 20

Cont’d from page 17

They represented culture of all parts of Gujarat. The program was filled with folk dances, Gujarati Raas, Bollywood songs, classical songs, Bollywood remix songs, qawali and comic skits by Youth Group. More than 400 people attended this celebration. The purpose of the program was to encourage a large participation, celebrate the Spring Festival and to provide a platform for

Gujaratis to mingle with each other and also with those from other ethnic communities. Gujarati Samaj is a lead organization in St. Louis for Indian community. Earlier this year Samaj had organized Gujarati Drama "Chitkar", Dayro by Abhesing Rathod and free yoga camp for youth and adults. Gujarati Samaj will also host India kite day festival on Saturday June 19 at Sportport Park, Maryland Heights and Picnic on July 11 at McDonald Park.

Other finalists receiving honors and awards were three other teams from Oak Park High School in Oak Park, Gabrielino High School in San Gabriel, and Ventura High School in Ventura. Eastshore Elementary School in Irvine, Roosevelt Middle School in Compton, Will Rogers Middle School in Lawndale, Hillview Middle School in Whittier and a second team from Medea Creek Middle School also received awards as finalists in the competition. Teachers from the 11 teams selected as finalists were awarded stipends ranging from $150 to $500, and each received laptop computers for their classrooms. In addition, teachers participating in the Edison Challenge also attended science workshops, which focused on renewables and other energy-related topics.

Teens using drugs, alcohol -Perception & realty Cont’d from page 16

"We know from the social norms survey that there is a gap between what students perceive their peers to be doing and what those peers are actually doing," said Superintendent Nanciann Gatta. "We know that if students think their friends are participating in certain unhealthy choices, they will be more likely to make the same unhealthy choices. Conversely, when students learn they actually fit in with their peers by not using drugs or alcohol, they are in essence given permission to belong by abstaining." According to Greg Barker, researcher at NIU, a successful, comprehensive social norms campaign can reduce perceived use by 3-5% per year.

Dr. Gatta discussed the results of the 2009-2010 Social Norms Survey. 3,602 students at District 219 completed a 110-question anonymous survey. Here are some of the results which show the wide gap between what is perceived and what is actual regard-

who represent the social service agencies, schools, law enforcement and local government. Panelists who were available to answer questions included Deputy Chief Scarpelli and Detective John Long from the Skokie Police Department, Sarah Migas from the State Attor-

ing teen behavior: Most of the meeting provided parents time to ask questions of professionals from Niles Township

ney General's office, Robin Stein, Director of Response, and Michelle Amaro and Todd Putnam from District 219.

Health

Line

Arizona lawmakers to undo health budget cuts

PHOENIX: Arizona lawmakers are moving to reinstate the KidsCare health care program for children and reverse a planned enrollment cut in the state's Medicaid program. Proposed legislation would undo the two budget cuts included in the new state budget approved in March. Those cuts must be undone for the state to remain eligible for Medical funding under terms of the recently approved federal health care overhaul. The proposed state legislation would reauthorize KidsCare outright, but reversal of the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System eligibility reduction affecting 310,000 people is subject to the state getting expected additional federal funding. -AP

IRS promoting tax credits in new health care law WASHINGTON: The government is reaching out to more than 4 million small businesses and tax-exempt groups to make sure they know about a new tax credit offered as part of the nation's health care law. The Internal Revenue Service began mailing postcards to get the word out. The tax credit takes effect this year, and White House press secretary Robert Gibbs said it is intended to help smaller businesses and tax-exempt organizations that mainly employ lower- and moderate income workers. The goal is to help those employers start offering health insurance coverage or better afford the coverage they already provide. -AP

Health insurers fill coverage gap for dependents INDIANAPOLIS: Some college graduates may have one less thing to worry about after receiving diplomas this spring, thanks to coverage extensions being offered by a couple health insurers. WellPoint Inc. and UnitedHealth Group Inc. said they plan to allow dependents who receive coverage through a parent's health insurance to remain covered into September, when a new health care reform provision starts. Under the health care reform law passed last month by Congress, starting Sept. 23 young adults will be able to stay on or return to a parent's insurance plan until age 26. - AP

Health Science 22

India Post

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April 30, 2010

Lung scans can lead to many false alarms NEW YORK: Screening smokers for cancer with lung scans can lead to a high rate of false alarms, unneeded tests and biopsies, a new study suggests. -AP

Summit to attract leading US-India healthcare firms India Post News Service

NEW YORK: The USA-India Chamber of Commerce (USAIC), a bilateral Chamber of Commerce aimed at promoting and facilitating trade and investment between the United States and India, will organize its annual US-India BioPharma & Healthcare Summit on May 6th, at Hyatt Regency Cambridge, Massachusetts. The summit is aimed to bring top industry leaders from the two countries on one single platform to enhance the US-India relationship in the fast emerging and important sector of Bio-Pharma and Health care. Co-Chairs for 2010 Summit are: Dr. Martin Mackay, President PharmaTherapeutics R&D Pfizer; Hari Bhartia, Managing Director, Jubilant Organosys; Dr. Mervyn Turner, Chief Strategy Officer & Senior Vice President- Emerging Markets, Merck & Co. and Dr. Naresh Trehan, Chairman, Medanta- The Medicity. According to Karun Rishi, President of the USA-India

Chamber of Commerce, the annual Drug Discovery R&D spend of just the Advisory Board members is in excess of $25 billion. "From the business perspective, this clearly is a great opportunity. Access is key to business success. Having so many high profile key decision makers at the summit in one day at one place is remarkable. I hope the industry will be able to

and University of Pittsburgh. "Pfizer is bullish on our discovery research and manufacturing partnerships in India," said Martin Mackay, President of Pfizer PharmaTherapeutics R&D. "As CoChair of the US-India BioPharma Summit, I am glad to see so many participants who recognize the potential for valuable collaborations to bring forward innovative therapies

'What was striking and encouraging to me was that the government and private sector are working hand in hand in India' leverage this opportunity. We have been working for the last few years to create this ecosystem. I must admit, we have succeeded in creating it," said Rishi. Academic side is well represented with Deans and Chancellors of top medical and public health schools participating, notably: Harvard Medical School, Duke University, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston University School of Medicine, Tufts Medical School

for patients in India and the world." Stating that the US has been an important partner of India in overall Trade and Pharmaceutical sector has been an important component of it, Ashok Kumar, Secretary, Department of Pharmaceuticals and an Advisory Board member to the Summit argued that the US-India cooperation in Pharmaceuticals would be an important aspect of Department of Pharmaceutical Vision & Mission. "It would play an important role in our efforts of fos-

tering innovation, creating mutually beneficial business opportunities and partnerships. The USA-India Chamber of Commerce has since the past years continued to support this Department's efforts towards newer initiatives in the Pharmaceutical sector," he said. "India is now developing very fast with its own R&D model," said Dr. Marc Cluzel, Global Head of R&D for Sanofi-aventis and an Advisory Board member of the USA-India Chamber of Commerce. "During my recent visit to India and thanks to several interactions I had with top officials, leading scientists and top entrepreneurial managers, I was able to get comforted in this view. What was striking and encouraging to me was that the government and private sector are working hand in hand in India. I encourage you to attend this summit since this presents a unique opportunity to meet all stakeholders in one place with a common goal of fostering pharma innovation," he said. Cont’d on page 23

Pataki assails Reid's 'corrupt' health care deals RENO, Nev.: The Obama administration's health care reforms would not be law without ``corrupt deals'' Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid cut to pass them against the will of most Americans, former New York GOP Gov. George Pataki said. Pataki assailed the Nevada Democrat before about 150 people at a rally in Reno as part of a national campaign to build support for repeal of the reforms. His group ``Revere America'' was headed to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's home state of California later to continue the petition drive seeking 1 million signatures across the country. Pataki said Reid agreed to special favors in negotiations with senators in Louisiana and Nebraska as the Senate majority leader sought the votes he needed to pass the reforms. ``They got those votes by

things like the `Louisiana Purchase' and the `Cornhusker Kickback,' corrupt deals I have never seen in my life,'' said Pataki, a Republican who served three terms as governor ending in 2006. ``And I wonder who it was who put together those deals so that `Obama-care' that the people didn't

retained a deal that Democratic Sen. Mary Landrieu negotiated for her state, Louisiana. Pataki said the January election of Republican Sen. Scott Brown in traditionally Democratic Massachusetts should have sent a message that the public opposed the reforms. ``Yet the majority leader of the

Pataki assailed the Nevada Democrat before about 150 people at a rally in Reno as part of a national campaign to build support for repeal of the reforms want could get through the United States Senate? I think you know the answer to that,'' he said as several in the crowd shouted, ``Harry Reid.'' Democrats ultimately cut from the final health care bill the special Medicaid funds for Nebraska that had become a symbol of backdoor deal making, but they

U.S. Senate rammed it through, basically ignoring the rules of the Senate and the wishes of the American people,'' Pataki told The Associated Press. ``Now it is the people's turn to speak and we think they are going to speak loudly and clearly,'' he said before the rally, where activ-

ists waved signs that read ``Privatize Harry Reid'' and `Ì'm Not Wild About Harry.'' Gov. Jim Gibbons, US Rep. Dean Heller and Lt. Gov. Brian Krolicki were among the prominent Nevada Republicans to address the crowd in Reno. Heller paused when an ambulance passed with siren blaring, then said, ``That's what we want to do with Òbama-care.''' Danny Tarkanian, the son of former UNLV basketball coach Jerry Tarkanian who is seeking the GOP nomination to face Reid in November, also attended the rally, as did campaign aides for two other Republicans vying for that seat Sue Lowden and Sharron Angle. `Ànother day, another outof-state Republican trying to tell Nevadans what's best for them,'' Reid campaign spokesman Kelly Steele said. -AP

Health Science Post

April 30, 2010

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Ill. nursing home reformers push for more staffing CHICAGO: Gov. Pat Quinn has proposed reforms that would raise minimum staffing levels at nursing homes, an idea that's quietly being fought by the industry although there's evidence more time spent on care by nurses and aides improves residents' health. Numerous national studies have linked more nursing hours with improved care, as shown by fewer bed sores and less unexplained weight loss. ``One person cannot take care of 30 people and do the kind of job they're expected to do,'' said the Rev. Elaine Bellis, associate director for the Community Renewal Society's Senior Action Network in Chicago. ``That's why there's constant turnover and burnout. People can't keep up with the demands of the job.'' Current Illinois rules require nursing homes to provide at least 2.5 hours of nursing care per resident each day. That works out to about 31 certified nurse aides and licensed nurses per 100 residents. A nursing home with 100 residents, for instance, must provide at least 250 hours of nursing care each day.

Quinn wants to phase in more nursing care. By 2014, in the governor's proposal, the minimum would be 4.1 hours per day for residents who need skilled care and 2.8 hours per day for residents needing intermediate care. Many homes already meet those standards. But some do not, and industry leaders have said fa-

'One person cannot take care of 30 people and do the kind of job they're expected to do,' said the Rev. Elaine Bellis cilities that survive on Medicaid can't afford to hire more people. The governor would also raise fees and fines for nursing homes and toughen oversight. The proposals stem from news reports of assaults, rapes and murders in Illinois nursing homes and the work of a task force Quinn convened last year.

The task force heard public testimony about inadequate staffing, particularly at facilities serving mostly black residents. ``The fact that low staffing levels seem concentrated in nursing homes primarily serving African Americans was deeply disturbing to the task force, legislators and community members,'' according to the task force's final report. The Health Care Council of Illinois, the state's largest nursing home trade group, has opposed across-the-board increases in staffing requirements. But spokesman Kevin Kavanaugh declined to comment on its position because talks are still under way. Task force chairman Michael Gelder, Quinn's senior health policy adviser, said he's optimistic a compromise with nursing homes can be reached, although the Health Care Council hasn't yet offered any alternatives on staffing. "They've indicated they oppose any unilateral increased standard for nurse staffing. We have not gotten into the specifics of that or heard from them what they would recommend,'' he said. -AP

Summit to attract leading US-India healthcare firms Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 22

Added India's leading cardiologist Dr. Naresh Trehan, Co-Chair of the Summit and Chairman of MedantaThe Medicity: "The growth in the healthcare services in India is driven by the 350 million strong middle class people aspiring for quality and affordable healthcare services. According to the WHO report, India needs to add 80,000 hospital beds each year for the next five years to meet the demands of its growing population. This presents a great opportunity for ethical players with long term view." Indian biotechnology sector has been doing remarkably well during the past few years registering annual growth rates of 20%-30%. It has shown an enviable degree of vibrancy and resonance stated Prithviraj Chavan, Minister of Science & Technology and Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office. "USA-India Chamber of Commerce has been doing a yeoman service in showcasing the Indian achievements in biopharma and biotechnology through the annual summit. Like previous years, I do hope that this year too the Summit will bring together global lead-

ers to exchange views, experiences and vision for promoting newer understanding in biopharma between the two great nations," he said. In a statement, Minister of State for Chemicals & Fertilizers Srikant Jena stated: "The Summit provides an insight to the policy makers regarding growing and varying needs of various stakeholders and thus to decide upon policy initiatives to facilitate cross border investments, create public-private-academic partnerships and open new opportunities. I must applaud the USA-India Chamber of Commerce for persistently doing phenomenal work in facilitating trade and investment between Indian and US Industry, the domino effect of which is far-reaching. I wish all success to the US-India Bio-Pharma & Healthcare Summit-2010 and wish the USA-India Chamber of Commerce keeps attaining great landmarks." "During the day-long meeting, participants would brain storm on a wide range of issues including drug discovery & development, industryacademic partnerships, healthcare opportunities, clinical research, funding innovation and cross border M&A trends," said Rishi.

1 RI Ka Dhaga Re - Well Done Abba

6 Meri Aashaon Ki - Right Yaaa Wrong

2 Tu Gandi - Love Sex Aur Dhokha

7 Waqt Ne Jo Bij Boyaa - Sadiyaan

3 TBHYRS - Sadiyaan

8 Ajnabee Ehsaas Ko - DDKKM

4 AHBB - Shaapit

9 Aao Seene Se Lag Ke - M v/s M 10 Dont Know What To Do - Housefull

5 O Janeman - Tum Milo Toh Sahi

India Post

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April 30, 2010

idhu Vinod Chopra has become the first B'town celebrity to own a house in Beverly Hills. His home is bang opposite the famous Beverly Hills Hotel. A source said, "Vidhu's latest, 3 Idiots, has grossed over Rs 425 crore and is still making money. Also, he's in discussion with many Hollywood stars for his next directorial venture, Broken Horses (starring Mickey Rourke), the shooting for which starts on September 13 in Mew Mexico. His neighbors are celebs like Jennifer Aniston, George Clooney, Pamela Anderson, Jay Leno, Madonna, Jack Nicholson, Eddie Murphy and Sylvester Stallone, among others." Vidhu confirmed, "Yes, I have a house in Beverly Hills. I've been working out of there as we are now doing pre-production for Broken Horses."

hahid Kapoor's private massage session at a Bangkok hotel turned out to be one of those downright dirty ones Shahid Kapoor is a magnet for ragging. After being teased mercilessly by a group of girls who asked him to take off his ganji and bare his chest while he was shooting for Badmaash Company on a beach in Bangkok, he once again had the fright of his life in the Thai city. Accompanied by Vir Das and

Meiyang Chang, his co-stars in Badmaash Company, Shahid landed up at a massage parlor in a hotel.

massages, which Bangkok is so famous for. The embarrassing incident happened during the film's fi-

Massage service But he soon realized that he had made one of the biggest mistakes of his life when the massage turned out to be one of those 'naughty'

nal schedule in Bangkok. As there was hardly any scene to be shot on that particular day, the three boys decided to chill

out by going for a relaxing massage. A source says, "Shahid, Vir and Chang entered separate private rooms for a massage. A few minutes later, they were seen running out of their respective massage rooms." The three boys came out redfaced and looked at each other very sheepishly. They asked each other, "Kya tere saath bhi wohi hua jo mere saath hua?"

Bollywood

April 30, 2010

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Jittery experience

S K

Akshay & belles

he natural charmer that is Akshay Kumar was on location in the ru ral village of Malshej Ghat shooting for Farah Khan's Tees Maar Khan, in which he plays a conman who falls for "lucky charm" Katrina Kaif. Akshay noticed a group of local women cutting grass and decided that it would be fun to get them to join him in the publicity pictures. The village belles were reluctant at first but after the sweet talking Khiladi broke out in respectful Marathi, they quickly changed their minds and had a wonderful time shooting photos, even matching Akshay in a couple of dance steps. This multi-tasking of a photo shoot and a film shoot may seem impressive but that is nothing for our Khiladi who is currently doing promotions for Housefull and shooting for three films Tees Maar Khan, Action Replayy, and Thank You. And although you won't get to hear Akshay speak Marathi in Housefull, the film will feature the multilinguist Akshay speaking Punjabi while Deepika Padukone will speak Telugu, and Riteish will speak in Marathi. Chunky Pandey gets a comedy touch with Italian!

apoor brothers Rishi, Randhir and Rajiv have registered a strong protest against Yash Raj's attempt to make a film on the Raj KapoorNargis romance. Aditya Chopra had mentioned the film to Ranbir Kapoor, who might have played his grandfather, Raj Kapoor, in the proposed Yash Raj venture. However, when Ranbir discussed the idea with his father, Rishi Kapoor, he didn't like the idea one bit, and informed his brothers, Randhir and Rajiv. All three agreed that this was something they wouldn't support. "A film on our dad's days with Nargisji? Nothing doing," the Kapoor brothers categorically told Ranbir, while to Yash Raj Films, they said, "We'd appreciate it if you stop entertaining the idea of making a film on our dad and Nargisji." A source says, "Why only Randhir, Rishi or Rajiv? Even Nargisji's children, Sanjay, Priya and Namrata, wouldn't like such a film being made." When asked, Randhir said, "I'm hearing this for the first time."

lowly and steadily, Mugdha Godse is making her presence felt in the tinsel town. She got critical acclaim for 'Fashion' and then delivered a hit with 'All The Best' and now she is ready with another project, this time a horror movie titled 'Help' opposite Bobby Deol. Directed by debutant director Rajeev Virani and produced by Sanjay Ahluwalia, the movie was shot in Mauritius.

Both Bobby and Mugdha are satisfied and pleased with the way the movie has turned out. Bobby says, "The film has been beautifully shot and must say it's the finest horror that one will see. It's immensely gruesome and a kind of horror, which gives you goosebumps. Help will take horror to another level." Mugdha, too, is excited to be a part of a horror flick. She says, "I have done glamorous roles and de-glam roles in the past. But this is like a role of a lifetime and I had to prepare real hard. My character had to be really authenticated and to admit, it was a painful experience too. Then the makeup was such that it gave me jitters."

Asin faints

ishaps are a common experience with shootings and film stars. This time to be caught in a mishap is south siren Asin who was out of breath when there was a sudden gas leak in her vanity van whilst shooting for the Tamil movie 'Kaavalkaran'. Asin was getting ready for the shoot when there was a leak in gas line and the vanity van suddenly became stuffy and gloomy. The gas made the actress along with her hair dresser and make-up man unconscious. The worried unit members rushed the three to a hospital 20 kms away from the location of the shoot. However, things were soon under control. Asin and others have recovered fully and are already back on the sets and have started shooting.

India Post

SRIREKHA CHAKRAVARTY India Post News Service

NEW YORK: A.R. Rahman may not be the most articulate of celebrities you may ever meet. But then the music maestro does not need to prove anything by being able to "talk" to a room full of reporters. Nor does he need to prove his genius in making music anymore considering the amazing array of world talent that has come together to design a tour that brings to fans one of the most technically and creatively unique concerts with never before seen production values any artist has performed at for a world audience.

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keep him in good health. To another who wanted to know if Rahman remembers the very first track he had ever composed, the composer simply said he didn't. Filling in much of the technical details of the concert were creative director Amy Tinkham who was present at the press conference and the concert producer Deepak Gattani of Rapport Productions who spoke via a video message from India. The Journey is a theatrical experience that will blend in new technologies with powerful dance arrangements and acrobatics. The concert will feature changing sets,

April 30, 2010

logical pressure on everyone he works with to surpass our own capabilities. So we have put together an amazing talent of technicians from Hollywood and India." Gattani further said: "In this two-and-half hour musical spectacle, the very soul of India can be experienced. From the myths of the rural India to the colors of the festivity, to the rhythm and beats of the urban culture, this musical concert has it all. With technologically advanced theatrical treatment, Rahman will take us on a colorful musical journey of India, which will be a heartfelt experience for the world audience."

All pics masalajunction.com

"Calling it a journey home means so much," she said, "because we are expressing through it the cultures, colors, spirituality, fashion and festivals of India not only for Indian but to the world audience. It will

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;In this two-and-half hour musical spectacle, the very soul of India can be experienced. From the myths of the rural India to the colors of the festivity, to the rhythm and beats of the urban culture, this musical concert has it allâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; truly be an east meets west concert." Of the kind of performances one can expect in the show, Timkham said, "Rahman's catalogue of music is so vastit has a range from hip hop to Bollywood

UNIQUE CONCERT A.R. Rahman

Rahman was in New York Apr 19 to address a press conference at the K-Lounge in midtown Manhattan to announce his 'Jai Ho- A Journey Home' world tour - a 20-city tour through the United States, Canada, the UK, Switzerland, France and Holland, beginning June 11 in New York. "It will be an emotional experience," he told the Indian and American media representatives. "My shows before were always put together at the last minute. (Still), fans have always given so much love. (So now) we want to give back more because the fans deserve to see more from India." Disappointingly, of the four questions that were allowed by the event organizers, two were inane. One reporter was 'concerned' about how Rahman would take care of his health during the tenuously long tour. "Won't you be tired?" he asked, to which Rahman said his fans' good wishes should

Rahman promises 'emotional' journey home

large images and a spectacular cast of musicians and dancers from across the globe. "Since he won his Oscar, Rahman has put so much pressure on us that we couldn't have come up with anything less or mediocre," said Gattani. "He always puts psycho-

Timkham, who is known for creating live musical concerts for pop icons including Madonna, Britney Spears, Beyonce, the Backstreet Boys and Mariah Carey, said, "At this point in my life where I feel I have done it all, I get the Rahman show to work on."

- the show is designed to reflect that." Savio Lobo, tour manager for Rapport Productions said, "Never in the history of the entire Indian entertainment industry has an artist embarked on a true on road world tour. 21 days of intensive production rehearsals on an entire touring mock set up of lights, sound, sets, and special effects and the entire cast and crew is just the beginning. A mammoth production on road of 7 nos., 53 feet air trailers, with 6 touring coaches and one star coach ferrying the entire entourage is surely going to be a sight to see. This huge production is very ably supported by two of the well known main stream touring production managers John Lafferty and Nicholas Jeen." The Journey kicks off June 11 at Nassau Coliseum in New York, and ends July 25 at the Wembley in London.

April 30, 2010

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A new spin on the Indian love story India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Inspired by personal relationships between people, and shot mainly in New York City, 'Anything For You' is a unique take on the classic Indian love story. Anything For You is the first feature film debut for writer, director and executive producer Anand Alagappan. His career started

with We love India - a TV show featuring lifestyles of Indians in America, which he produced and hosted. 'No Exit' a short film by Alagappan, was featured at a number of film festivals, including LA International Short Film Festival, World Cinema Naples, South Asian International Film Festival, among others. In 2007, Alagappan founded Newyork Talkies with Ravi Gavva and

Mahender Musuku, a company producing motion pictures. "The language of cinema is visual. The story needs to be

told as it is. The US is a melting pot of all cultures, and I wanted our film to reflect that," said Alagappan.

The movie features Sam Ghosh, Pooja Kumar and Julia Fine. Anything For You was to release in selected theaters April 23.

Aziz Ansari to host MTV Movie Awards India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Aziz Ansari, the quirky comedian of NBC's Parks and Recreation fame, will host this year's MTV Movie Awards, which will air live on June 6. The American actor and comedian born of immigrant parents hailing from Tamil Nadu, India, had caught the imagination of the pop world with his 'Star Trek' spoof at the MTV Movie Awards last year. Ansari stars as Tom Haverford on the NBC comedy Parks and Rec-

reation. He also created and starred in the critically acclaimed, cult MTV sketch show Human giant. A MTV web report quoted Stephen Friedman, general manager of MTV who said, " "Our audience fell in love withAziz on Human giant. They followed him to the movies, TV and stand-up, and connect with him daily online. Aziz is the perfect host for the 2010 MTV Movie Awards, as he will bring his innovative comedy and distinctive style to the movie industry's most rebellious night on television."

BOLLYWOOD OSCARS: Bollywood actor and International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) brand ambassador Amitabh Bachchan poses with traditional Sri Lankan dancers at a press conference in Colombo on April 20. Sri Lanka will host top Indian movie stars for the annual "Bollywood Oscars" weekend that showcases one of the world's most ambitious and prolific film industry. The three-day IIFA event that runs from June 3-5, will feature performances, premieres, celebrity parties, workshops, business forums, fashion shows and a Twenty20 cricket match

Sports Track All payments to cricketers come under IT lens MUMBAI/NEW DELHI: Cricketers who played in IPL for last three years will be scrutinized by the Income Tax as Enforcement Directorate is contemplating filing a case under anti-money laundering laws against unknown officials of IPL. Official sources said IPL franchise teams had been asked to hand over details of payments made to cricketers of all the teams who have played in the three IPL editions so far. The payments include the money paid to the players for the match as well as for the postmatch parties, the sources said. The IT has also asked the IPL franchise teams to provide the details of money paid to the cheerleaders as well as commentators.-PTI

All sports need openness, says minister Gill NEW DELHI: Against the backdrop of the furor surrounding the Indian Premier League, Sports Minister M S Gill has said like democracy, all sports should have "openness and free debate in decision-making". "India is a fiercely democratic country in which open and free debate and discussion takes place in decision making. This applies to all the things including sports," he told reporters outside Parliament here. On suggestions to nationalize IPL and cricket, Gill said "it is a strange word and a phrase used by someone else." When asked about the necessity to clean IPL and cricket, he said, "Democracy is like a sunflower, which needs a lot of sunshine. I think that applies to sports also." -PTI

SPORTS 28 India Post

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April 30, 2010

MoneyGram partners with ICC World Twenty20 India Post News Service

NEW YORK: MoneyGram International, a global money transfer company, announced an agreement with the International Cricket Council for its sponsorship as the official money transfer partner at the ICC World Twenty20 West Indies 2010 cricket event to run April 30 to May 16. Cricket is among the largest sports attractions in countries that rely on remittance services including India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, as well as countries in Southern Africa and the Caribbean. MoneyGram's decision to sponsor the most favorite and crucial game among remittance receiving countries was made to connect with its customers, and increase its brand awareness among the millions of cricket fans across the globe, according to a release. The campaign includes

chances for cricket fans to win a dream package to attend the West Indies event and games on May 8. Winners will be selected from 10 countries, including one winner from the US. "When cricket teams and fans

from around the world arrive in the West Indies our brand will prominently greet them and further deepen awareness among people who use money transfer services to meet their financial needs," said Juan Agualimpia, chief marketing officer for MoneyGram International. "This sponsorship will help us reach millions of expatriates as

well as their family and friends that are viewing the games." "Cricket is a huge part of the lives of millions of our customers. Our goal is to match the value of

Cricket is among the largest sports attractions in countries that rely on remittance services including India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan our brand with the passion of cricket fans to support our growth," Agualimpia said. "For example, South Asia is among our most important markets and one in which we are growing rapidly. Over the last year, in India alone, we built out our network to 22,000

agent locations countrywide." While in 2008 India was the receiver of $52 billion sent to the country (data by Word Bank), last year over 100 million Indians watched the Twenty20 championships. ICC General Manager - Commercial Campbell Jamieson said: "We're pleased to add MoneyGram to a list of excellent local sponsors for the ICC World Twenty20 West Indies 2010. As the world's second most popular team sport, cricket enthusiasts are a growing and diverse group that touches every corner of the world and every segment of the population. We're eager for MoneyGram to experience the power of the game for its brand." The ICC World Twenty20 West Indies 2010 matches will be played in Barbados, St. Lucia, St. Kitts and Guyana beginning April 30, with the championship matches in Bridgetown, Barbados on May 16.

Sehwag out of T20 WC, Vijay named replacement

Joint ED-IT team questions Lalit Modi in IPL controversy MUMBAI: IPL Chairman Lalit Modi was questioned by a joint team of Income Tax and Enforcement Directorate officials probing alleged financial irregularities by the T20 cricket body and its franchises. Officials of the two agencies began the exercise around 8.30 this morning at Modi's office at upscale Four Seasons hotel in central Mumbai and later shifted the venue to the IPL top honcho's office at Nirlon House in Worli. It is for a second time in less than 24 hours that Modi is being questioned by the IT. He was also quizzed earlier about IPL bidding process and issues relating to franchisee owners. -PTI

LOSING BRAND: Siddharth Mallya and Deepika Padukone look on during the IPL semifinal match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and the Mumbai Indians played at the Dr D Y Patil Cricket Stadium on April 21

LIFT KARA DE: Mumbai Indians owner Nita Ambani celebrates as she is lifted by Harbhajan Singh after defeating the Royal Challengers in the IPL semi final match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and the Mumbai Indians played at the Dr D Y Patil Cricket Stadium on April 21

NEW DELHI: India's Twenty20 World Cup campaign suffered a body blow with hard-hitting opener Virender Sehwag being ruled out of the tournament because of a shoulder injury. The selectors named in-form Tamil Nadu batsman Murali Vijay as his replacement, while naming Gautam Gambhir the new vice captain. "Virender Sehwag has sustained a shoulder injury and has been advised rest for three-four weeks. He has therefore been ruled out of the ICC World T20," BCCI secretary N Srinivasan said in a statement. "The ICC's Technical Committee has permitted a replacement for him. The All-India Senior Selection Committee has accordingly picked Murali Vijay," he added. Incidentally, Sehwag had been injured in the 2009 edition of the T20 World Cup as well when he traveled to England with the squad but did not play a game. The swashbuckling opener has

been rather subdued in the ongoing Indian Premier League where his team Delhi Daredevils could not reach the semifinals. Sehwag did play the Daredevils' last IPL match against Deccan Chargers on but his contribution with the bat was a mere eight be-

Murali Vijay

fore Chaminda Vaas removed him. In contrast, Chennai Super Kings batsman Vijay has been in tremendous form in the IPL and the highlight was his breathtaking 56-ball 127 against Rajasthan Royals. -PTI

he hill resort of Devikulam in Kerala has gorgeous green slopes that are as high as if to touch the sky. It is sixteen kilometers south west of Munnar at an amazing altitude of 1800 m above sea level. Lovely large lawns, rare fauna and flora and the cool breezes in Devikulam are not just refreshing but rejuvenating to the souls. Devikulam literally means "the pond or lake of the Devi". As per the beliefs of the people Goddess Sita had bathed in the waters of the lake in Devikulam. Tourist attractions: Devikulam boasts of a breathtakingly beautiful Sita Devi Lake veiled in the hills. As the name indicates the lake is associated with goddess Sita. Tourists flock to

Lovely large lawns, rare fauna and flora and the cool breezes in Devikulam are not just refreshing but rejuvenating to the souls. Devikulam literally means "the pond or lake of the Devi". As per the beliefs of the people Goddess Sita had bathed in the waters of the lake in Devikulam. Devikulam boasts of a breathtakingly beautiful Sita Devi Lake veiled in the hills. As the name indicates the lake is associated with goddess Sita the Lake owing to the splendid surroundings. Many believe in the curative powers of the mineral water of the lake. It is believed that goddess Sita had bathed in the waters of this lake making it sacred for the pilgrims that visit Devikulam. Even the adventure seekers throng the waters of the Lake, as they are ideal for trout fishing. Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d on page 32

29 India Post

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April 30, 2010

Devikulam

Gorgeous green slopes as if touching sky

Travel & Hospitality Post

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April 30, 2010

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'Super green' seafood a simple way to help oceans India Post News Service

he new "Super Green" sea food list at the Monterey Bay is helping seafood lovers enjoy delicious seafood that's heart-healthy, low in contaminants and a Seafood Watch "Best Choice" - the best for the ocean environment. "Our individual actions, small though they may seem, are contributing to a sea change that's making a big difference for the fu-

ture of the oceans," said aquarium Executive Director Julie Packard. "Choosing 'Super Green' seafood is a simple thing we can do to ensure thriving oceans for the future." Developed in collaboration with scientists from the Harvard School of Public Health and the Environmental Defense Fund, the "Super Green" selections include items like wild-caught salmon, sardines and farmed mussels - all good for people and good for the planet.

The ‘Super Green’ selections include items like wildcaught salmon, sardines and farmed mussels - all good for people and good for the planet The aquarium's free "Seafood Guide" iPhone app was recently voted "Best of Green" as the Best

Smart Phone App in Treehugger.com's annual ranking of green innovations. Its newest special exhibition tackles another pressing issue: the untold story of climate change and its impacts on the oceans. "Hot Pink Flamingos: Stories of Hope in a Changing Sea" shares stories about remarkable wildlife and shows visitors the many ways people can tread more lightly on the Earth, protect its natural resources and make a better home for all who share the planet. The aquarium has assessed its own carbon footprint over the last year, and has embarked on a fiveyear plan to reduce that footprint

through a variety of energy saving measures. "We think this is especially important as we find new ways to talk to our guests about climate change," said Cynthia Vernon, vice president of education, guest and research programs. "We definitely need to show that we are finding ways to limit our own impact as far as possible, before asking our guests to do likewise." One recent contribution was the aquarium's annual participation in Earth Hour, March 27. At 8 p.m. the aquarium switched off all non-essential life support functions saving around 430 kW of electricity in one hour.

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SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir government has said it would reconstruct the state-owned Budshah Hotel, gutted in a devastating fire incident in 1984. "The government has decided to reconstruct the Budshah Hotel. The work would be complete it three months," Tourism Minister Nasir Aslam Wani told reporters here. The reconstruction of the hotel, located at Lal Chowk area here, will cost Rs 3.50 crore, he said. During reconstruction, its original design would be retained, he said, adding that Kashmiri handloom and handicrafts will be displayed at the hotel. -PTI

Mount Abu sanctuary to be eco-friendly JAIPUR: Mount Abu Sanctuary and Keoladev National Park will be developed as eco-friendly destinations with an estimated cost of Rs 4.92 crore. "The Centre has approved Rs 2.61 crore for Keoladev National Park and Rs 2.31 crore for the sanctuary to develop them as ecofriendly destinations," Rajasthan Minister of State for Forest and Environment Ram Lal Jat said here. "Under the projects, the government will undertake works to develop them as eco-friendly destinations with support from locals. The state government will try to promote tourism activities around the areas in such a way that environment is not affected at all," he said. The minister said the government has also submitted three proposals to the Centre to make Sariska, Ranthambhore and Udaipur sanctuaries eco-friendly. -PTI

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Astronaut camp in Karnataka's Dandeli BANGALORE: Young children keen to know more about space and participate in 'astronaut camps' need not go to the United States any more. India's first astronaut camp kicked off in Karnataka's Dandeli, best known for its wildlife sanctuary and tourism, on April 16. The astronaut camp is a project designed by Sandip Joshi, a pioneer of edu-tourism in India and Chris Barber of UK-based International Space School Education Trust (ISSET). Importantly, inputs for the program have come in from Andrew Cline, a noted leadership and organization development consultant and coach and trainer to astronauts like late Kalpana Chawla and

current NASA astronaut Sunita Williams. In addition to Dandeli, the pro-

Barber said the Dandeli and Bandipur camps are also expected to attract students from overseas, including Europe and the US within a year moters of the project have chosen Bandipur for conducting such camps.

"We plan to conduct 70 to 80 camps a year except in the months of June, July and August," Joshi told reporters here. "We expect 15,000 to 20,000 students to participate in such camps every year". The promoters charge anywhere between Rs 12,500 and Rs 14,000 per student for the six-day camp. It's open to children in the 12 to 18 age group. Each camp will have a maximum of 35 attendees. Joshi said children until now had go to the US to participate in such camps spending about Rs 1.75 lakh. The ongoing camp focused on developing leadership skills along with environmental study, space exploration and honing the personalities of young minds. River

Now, book your houseboat at Srinagar Airport SRINAGAR: Tourists coming to Kashmir valley, longing to spend time in a houseboat in Dal Lake, can now book for the facility at the Srinagar International Airport. A reservation counter for booking houseboats was inaugurated at the Airport by Tourism Minister Nawang Rigzin Jora, bringing cheers on the faces of those associated with the sector. The counter, owned by the Houseboat Owners Association, started the booking soon after its

inauguration. "The opening of the booking facility has brought a ray of hope for us because we have got the right place to market our services," President of the Association -- an umbrella organization of some 1000 registered houseboats at Dal and Nigeen Lakes -Manzoor Ahmad Wangoo said. The booking facility, carved in a houseboat replica style, is available at the arrival lounge of the airport and has been ideally located next to the aerobridge es-

calator. "This is the happiest day in the life of houseboat owners," Wangoo said. The government has been making efforts to improve tourism in Kashmir through road shows and other marketing strategies outside the state, Jora said. Minister of State for Tourism Nasir Aslam Wani, who was also present at the function, hoped that the counter would boost the houseboat business in the valley. -PTI

rafting, wild life and star-gazing were also part of the camp. It was organized by Mission Apollo, a Pune-based company headed by Joshi and conducted by Barber, who has worked for over a decade with astronauts and space scientists to arrange "outof-the-world" experiences to

young minds. Current NASA astronaut trainer Michelle Ham was also one of the faculty. Barber said the Dandeli and Bandipur camps are also expected to attract students from overseas, including Europe and the US within a year. -PTI

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Sikkim has immense tourism potential: President RANKA (East Sikkim): Describing Sikkim as “a hidden paradise”, President Pratibha Patil has said the state has immense tourism potential for revenue generation and employment opportunities for locals. “Sikkim is a land steeped in legend and tradition as a land of hidden paradise because of its scenic mountains, valleys and forests which have been blessed with lakes and waterfalls,” Patil said after inaugurating the state-of-art Khangchendzonga tourist villacum-socio cultural amusement park at Ranka, about 14 kms from here. The state also has immense

potential for mountaineering, trekking and adventure sports and religious and eco-tourism, she said.

‘Sikkim a land of hidden paradise because of its scenic mountains, valleys and forests’ She asked the state government to develop a sustainable model for tourism for generation

of revenue and employment opportunities for the local people. Youths should be given proper training for inculcating managerial skills for benefiting from employment opportunities being generated through the tourism industry, the President said. She also lauded the state government for showcasing the rich flora and fauna and medicinal and aromatic herbs at the International Rhododendron festival to be hosted at Lachung in North Sikkim next week as part of a year-long program to promote tourism. -PTI

Maha seeks world heritage status for Lonar Lake MUMBAI: The Maharashtra government is trying to get world heritage status for Lonar lake in Buldhana district of Vidarbha region, state Tourism Minister Vijaykumar Gavit said here. "We are trying to get World Heritage status for Lonar Lake considering its historical importance," Gavit informed the Legislative Council. The salt water lake was created when a meteor hit the Earth. Leader of Opposition Pandurang Phundkar raised the issue of sewage water being let into the lake, polluting it. He asked the government to reply on the issue since the lake

was an attraction for scientists and tourists. Gavit said the municipal council concerned had taken measures to prevent sewage water from seeping into the lake. However, the municipal council needs Rs three crore for cleaning the water and it has only Rs 1.5 crore, he said. The civic body also needs a report from the state pollution board on the issue, the minister said. "We would submit the report to the pollution board within six months to seek permission for cleaning the lake water. The remaining funds would be made available accordingly," he said. -PTI

China to turn quake-hit Yushu into eco-tourist center Central panel nod to airport BEIJING: China plans to turn the ready to turn the quake-devastated tion to the ministry by April 26, at Kushinagar quake-hit Yushu county in Tibetan township into "a plateau ecologi- said a spokesman with the provindominated Qinghai province into a "plateau ecological tourist centre". Less than a week after a massive earthquake devastated the Qinghai province, China carried out a geological reconnaissance to turn the quake-hit area into a "plateau ecological tourist centre", probably by relocating the town, even as the death toll rose to 1,944. The framework plan is getting

cal tourist city," the provincial government of Qinghai said. A team of 16 experts from the Ministry of Housing and UrbanRural Development and the provincial housing bureau were conducting a field study of the quake zone, state run Xinhua news agency reported. They were expected to submit an appraisal of the quake devasta-

cial government. Zou Ming, director of the disaster relief department of the Ministry of Civil Affairs, said over the weekend that authorities would refer to a geological reconnaissance report to decide whether to rebuild Gyegu, the seat of the Yushu prefecture government, at a new location or rebuild on the ruins. -PTI

NEW DELHI: A central panel has given the nod to Uttar Pradesh's proposed international airport at Kushinagar to cater to tourists from countries like Japan and China who want to visit the Buddhist circuit. Giving its approval to the Rs 525 crore proposal, the Environment Appraisal Committee (EAC) of Environment Ministry in a recent meeting also asked the project

proponent to incorporate the features of local Buddhist architecture in and around the area of the terminal building. The Mayawati government has plans to acquire 425 acre of land, including farmland, and develop the Buddhist circuit in a public-private partnership (PPP) mode on a design-buildfinance-operate-transfer (DBFOT) basis to boost its tourism sector, sources said. -PTI

Devikulam: Gorgeous green slopes as if touching sky Cont’d from page 29

The scenic beauty, adventure sports, beliefs and religion come together to make the Sita Devi Lake a major tourist attraction in Devikulam. Prior permission from Tata Tea is required to visit the lake or catch the fresh water fish. The nature lovers can experience heaven on earth at Devikulam with the wild flowers and rare herbs that grow in bounty on the Devikulam Hills. In close proximity to the Devikulam Lake is the Pallivasal Waterfalls that make excellent site for picnics owing to the beauty of nature in the spectacular sights, sounds and smells in the surroundings. There are several tea plantations in and around Devikulam that add to the charm of the hill resort. The gum trees in red and blue are the other major highlights of the natural vegetation at Devikulam. For tourists interested in visiting the tea estates, tea plantations or the factories, conducted tours are available. Places around: There is the famous Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary at a distance of 50 km from Devikulam. In the sanctuary you may spot elephants, leopards, gaurs, sambars besides the highly endangered species of the Grizzled Giant Squirrel and the Star Tortoise. You may even climb up the watchtower and

enjoy the wondrous vistas of the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary. The Thoovanam Falls on the river Chinnar are the other must checkout in the sanctuary. Wrapped in the tea estates is the Mattupetty. The views of the mist clad mountains and the hillocks from the Mattupetty Lake are breathtakingly beauti-

The nature lovers can experience heaven on earth at Devikulam with the wild flowers and rare herbs that grow in bounty on the Devikulam Hills. In close proximity to the Devikulam Lake is the Pallivasal Waterfalls that make excellent site for picnics owing to the beauty of nature in the spectacular sights ful. The rains add to the charm of the already captivating Mattupetty Lake. Best time to visit: You may enjoy the crisp and cool mountain air throughout the year at Devikulam. How to reach: The ascent to Devikulam from Kochi of 149 km takes 4 and ½ hours whereas from Kottayam you are there at Devikulam that is 132 km away in 4 hrs.

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Briefs

Tharoor urges PM to get charges investigated

NEW DELHI: Declaring that he had done "nothing improper or unethical", Shashi Tharoor has said he quit the union council of ministers to avoid embarrassment to the government in view of the ongoing IPL controversy and wanted charges against him to be "thoroughly investigated". In a statement in the Lok Sabha, he said he was "deeply wounded by the fanciful and malicious charges" against him. "My conscience is clear and I know that I have done nothing improper or unethical, let alone illegal," he said adding his resignation was "in the highest moral traditions of our democratic system."-PTI

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India, Pak to increase interaction in health sector NEW DELHI: India and Pakistan have favored increasing interaction between the two countries in the health sector with Islamabad evincing keen interest in schemes for welfare of new mothers and "novel experiments" like the condom-vending machines. Pakistan's Population Welfare Minister Firdous Ashiq Awan, who met Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad here, said there was a lot to learn from India's experiences in population control. -PTI

'Spiritual' Water Show by BAPS

No scaling down of activities in Afghanistan: India NEW DELHI: India lost a total of 17 citizens engaged in projects in Afghanistan, but it would not scale down its activities there, the government has told the Lok Sabha. Minister of State for External Affairs Preneet Kaur said the government had ensured financial and other assistance to families of Indian officials and Indians, who were killed in Afghanistan while working on projects taken up by India there. It included ex-gratia compensation, insurance payments, liberalized pensionary benefits and other admissible benefits, she said during Question Hour, adding employees of private firms were provided compensation by their company. -PTI

MiG-21 being phased out: Defense Minister NEW DELHI: The Indian Air Force has initiated the process to phase out MiG-21 fighter aircraft, Defense Minister A K Antony told the Lok Sabha. The MiG-21 aircraft are in their final phase of service and in the process of phase-out, he said answering supplementaries in the Lok Sabha during Question Hour. Antony said the IAF maintains a mix of old and new aircraft in its fleet and each plane has a life span of 30-40 years. The Minister dismissed criticism over the crash of Kiran trainer aircraft during an air show at Begumpet airfield in Hyderabad in March. -PTI

BAPS water show

CHETNA SHAH India Post News Service

AHMEDABAD: The first-ofits-kind spiritual water show SatChit-Anand was inaugurated re-

presided over by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, Chief Minister of Gujarat Narendra Modi, Chief Scientific Adviser to the Government of India R. Chidambaram and Creative Designer of the water show Yves

one is different. There is a spiritual message that follows the Indian tradition of the Upanishads. I have enjoyed working with BAPS. It was like a family experience. Pramukh Swami is a simple, selfless person.

The Sat Chit Anand Water show is a new, enchanting addition to the BAPS Akshardham Complex in Gandhinanagar. The show seeks to present the Indian glorious culture and spiritual heritage using colorful combinations

Blessing the function, Pramukh Swami Maharaj observed, 'We need to tell our children stories each day from our scriptures like the Ramayan and Mahabharat' Pramukh Swami, Head of BAPS at the inaugural ceremony with Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi

cently at Swaminarayan Akshardham in Gandhinagar, India. The water show revealed the ancient secret of enlightenment, mysteries of life, death, and life after death through the story of Nachiketa, a nine-year old boy, who appears in front of the Lord of Death, Yama. The inaugural assembly was

Pépin. More than 1500 dignitaries attended the launch ceremony. In his address to the inaugural assembly, Ishwarcharan Swami, the coordinator of the project, gave details and objectives of the water show. Yves Pépin expressed his sentiments in his speech, "Until now my projects were all about entertainment and thrill. But, this

His inspiration can make the impossible, possible." Blessing the function, Pramukh Swami Maharaj observed, "We need to tell our children stories each day from our scriptures like the Ramayan and Mahabharat. Through this we will be able to empower our children with values and faith of our culture and religion. "

of water, lasers and lights. Produced in collaboration with a French agency, ECAZ, the show by BAPS plays every evening after sunset from Tuesday to Sundays. It features a 130 ft wide and 60 ft tall water screen, 44,000 lumens of video projection, multicolor laser projection, 4000 water nozzles, including 10 multidimensional nozzles, 2000 lights, 12 fire balls and 500 sq ft of fire on water.

SC upholds conviction of Manu Sharma in Jessica murder case NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court has upheld the conviction and life imprisonment awarded to Manu Sharma, son of senior Congress leader and former Union Minister Venod Sharma, in the 1999 Jessica Lall murder case. "The prosecution has proved beyond reasonable doubt the presence of Manu Sharma at the site of the offence," a Bench of Justices P Sathasivam and Swatanter Kumar said, upholding the Delhi High Court verdict.

The apex court also upheld the conviction as well as sentence of four years jail term of Vikas Yadav, son of controversial Uttar Pradesh politician D P Yadav and, Amarjeet Singh Gill, an MNC executive, for the destruction of evidence. "The Delhi High Court has given cogent and adequate reasons for reversal of acquittal given by the trial court,"

the bench said. "The presence of accused is proved by ocular evidence of prosecution witnesses," the Bench said while pronouncing the verdict. . The bench said that the conduct of Manu Sharma after the crime proved his guilt beyond reasonable doubt. "The prosecution has estab-

lished the evidence by recovering the Tata Safari car used by Manu Sharma on the day of offence from Noida. "An inference can be drawn about his guilt because accused did not lodge any FIR for the theft of his vehicle," the bench said in it's over 250-page judgment. The apex court said that the high court had rightly convicted and given four years jail sentences to Yadav and Gill for destruction of evidence. -PTI

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Harsh punitive military operation needed to wipe out Maoists JS BEDI

mbushing policemen who were out on an operation against them in thick forests, Naxalites carried out their deadliest attack early this month killing 76 CRPF personnel who appeared to have walked into their "trap". The police personnel were literally caught sleeping in the Mukrana forests of Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh, one of the strongholds of the Naxals, when the attack took place between 6 am and 7 am on a batch of 82, including 80 CRPF personnel. Two were from the local police. This is an outrage that deserves swift and surgical retribution. Mere speeches and statements are of no use, as are visits to the affected area by politicians and bureaucrats who always "rush to the spot" after it's all over. The Government's reaction has been a mixture of bumbling politics and ill planned police action by the region's ill trained, ill equipped and underpaid reserve police forces. Rather than tame them, the Government's bungling has made them even more brazen. What will it take for the Indian Government to wake up and face reality? This is not the first time that these terrorists have struck. And the attacks are increasing in number and barbarity. What is required is a harsh punitive military operation to wipe out the terrorists and their infrastructure, just like the Sri Lankan military wiped out the Tamil Tigers. The individual state police forces are too pathetic to carry out an operation of this magnitude. And they lack the equipment and training for this. It has to be borne in mind that a number of person-

nel in these regional forces have their homes and families in the very area that is the Maoist's hinterland -not exactly the ideal motivation for these cops knowing that their very families can be used as human shields. The Indian government can learn a lot from the Sri Lankans. The scenario is not too dissimilar than Northern Sri Lanka. With aerial support the army can easily wipe them out in a military blitz. And like in Sri Lanka, put the local villagers in refugee camps releasing them after thoroughly screening each individual. This is very necessary because many terrorists will try to blend in with the local population, just like the Tamil Tigers did in Sri Lanka. Also it has to be borne in mind that a number of civilians are sympathetic to the Maoists and act as their spies and collaborators. Another fine example is the Pakistan Army's operations in the volatile tribal areas bordering Afghanistan. Here the Pakistani military is engaged in full fledged combat against the tribal militias using ground troops and aircraft. Slowly but surely the Pakistan army is gaining ground and taking their country back. The point is that a country's military is there to protect it from any element that is a threat to that nation in any form. And the threat can be both, internal and external. India has to do the same. Launch an operation using mechanized infantry supported by armored columns and air units, both helicopter gun ships and fighter jets with total annihilation of the Naxalites / Maoists as the ultimate goal. The Communist Party of India (Maoist) is an underground, nonparliamentary Maoist terrorist

group. It was founded on September 2004 through a merger of different radical communist anarchic outfits. The CPI (Maoists) is often referred to as Naxalites in reference to the Naxalbari insurrection by radical Maoists in West Bengal in 1967. The Naxalite movement of the 60s was eventually crushed by the Punjab Police. The 'Party' claims that it is conducting 'people's war', a strategic line developed by Mao Zedong of China. Through murder and mayhem, this outfit of lunatics aims to consolidate its power in

And of course different organizations will cry foul and raise the usual noise on human rights etc. My question is where were these "Torch Bearers" of civil rights when ordinary folks are and security forces personnel were murdered? this area and advance their agenda of terror in other parts of India. They believe they can eventually install a "people's government" via what they call a "New Democracy Revolution". This is, to put it mildly, outrageous and hilarious. The CPI (Maoist) maintains dialogue with the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist) although this is denied by the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist).It is this nexus between the Indian and Nepalese terror outfits with Chinese sponsorship that is responsible for all the carnage murder and mayhem in what is considered to be the poorest and backward boonies of India.

The Indian armed forces can also launch preemptive strikes on Maoist bases in Nepal and destroy the China-Nepal-India clandestine corridor that facilitates the transfer of arms and contraband from China to the Maoists for their crusade of murder and mayhem. The principal funding for the Maoists comes from abductions, extortions and looting. The military hardware used by Maoists include RDX cable wires, gelatin sticks, detonators, country-made weapons, INSAS rifles, AK-47s, SLR and improvised explosive devices. Most of it is from China and smuggled across the Nepal border and some of it looted from the hapless local police. Of course there is no doubt that they also have the patronage and blessings of the local politicians and the police. Another alleged source of funding for Maoists comes from poppy cultivation reported from the Ghagra area of Gumla district in Jharkhand and in parts of Gumla, Kishanganj and Purnia districts in Bihar. They are also believed to be patronizing hemp cultivation in Orissa. Well, here the naysayer will cry foul saying that Nepal is a sovereign country. So is Sri Lanka and that did not stop Rajiv Gandhi from dropping "Relief Supplies" over Jaffna, dictate a treaty to Jayewardene, and just about do anything to meddle in Sri Lanka's affairs. And all for the sake of Tamil votes! And even today India continues to meddle by telling Sri Lanka how to run itself where their Tamil population is concerned. All that is only to secure the Tamil vote. Here the question is not of votes but of the country's stabil-

ity. The Maoists are doing all they can to create a state of anarchy, a state within a state, running their own parallel administration. It has already been going on for a while. They hold kangaroo courts that they call 'Public Court' in remote villages by handing out arbitrary justice for local problems. They have also held these courts in order to eliminate the local political leaders. These courts are usually held in areas so remote where the administration does not have a permanent presence or does not venture into without additional 'specialized combat forces' - a popular reference to the rag tag reserve police forces of the affected states. No doubt, like in every war, here too the civilians will be caught in the middle and that is the sad reality of military conflict. Trivialities and formalities like "human rights" and "Justice in a court of law" will have to take a back seat. And of course different organizations will cry foul and raise the usual noise on human rights etc. My question is where were these "Torch Bearers" of civil rights when ordinary folks are and security forces personnel were murdered? And finally some advice to the netas and babus of India's officialdom. Please for once put national interests ahead of your "Kursi" and have the courage to take a stand. Try to show some character and let the people know that its not just votes that you care for. You also are mindful of your duty to the nation. There is still time and India's politicians and bureaucrats need to understand the gravity of the situation and get out of the way to give the Indian military a free hand in uprooting and annihilating this menace once and for all.

Naxalism flourishes in under-developed areas: PM NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has admitted that Naxalism flourishes in under-developed areas but made it clear that urgent and considered action will be taken against those challenging the authority of the State. Addressing the Civil Services Day function here, he asked civil servants to devise innovative ways to ensure that the benefits of government's ambitious development programs reach the people. Describing Left-wing extremism as the gravest internal security threat faced by the nation, he said, "Recent events have underscored the need for urgent

The Prime Minister's remarks come in the wake of the worstever Maoist attack at Chitangufa in Chhattisgarh on April 6 in which 75 CRPF men and a policeman were killed. The Naxalites had also opened

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh

and considered action to root out this problem". "No quarter can be given to those who have taken upon themselves to challenge the authority of the Indian state and the fabric of our democratic polity," he said.

the country, Singh asked the civil servants to ensure that no area of the country is denied the benefits of the government's developmental programs. "But we cannot overlook the fact that many areas in which such

He asked civil servants to devise innovative ways and means to harness the tools of information technology and to involve the intended beneficiaries in implementation fire on five separate CRPF camps in quick succession in Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh last night. Underscoring the fact that Left-wing extremism was flourishing in under-developed areas of

extremism flourishes are under-developed and many of the people, mainly poor tribals, who live in these areas have not shared equitably in the fruits of development. "It is incumbent upon us to

ensure that no area of our country is denied the benefits of our ambitious developmental programs," the Prime Minister said. He asked civil servants to devise innovative ways and means to harness the tools of information technology and to involve the intended beneficiaries in implementation so that complaints of leakages, corruption and lack of transparency are addressed. Singh said that inclusive growth was the centerpiece of the developmental agenda of the UPA and fast economic growth provided the government with the resources to address the problems of poverty, ignorance and disease. -PTI

Tech News NRIs may be allowed to invest in infrastructure NEW DELHI: The Government has said it was considering allowing NRIs to invest in infrastructure bonds to mop up USD five billion for key projects in ports, roads and power sector. "The government proposes to invite NRIs' investment in infrastructure bonds for an estimated amount of USD five billion (Rs 22,500 crore)," Overseas Indian Affairs Minister Vayalar Ravi told Lok Sabha in reply to a question. He said the funds collected through the bonds are "proposed to be utilized in ports, roads and power sector." The idea was floated by several NRIs at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas held here in January and later they found support from Road Transport and Highways Minister Kamal Nath. -PTI

Ericsson to deliver 3D solutions for FIFA 2010

s the sports fans across the world look forward to the first event that will be broadcast in 3D globally, broadcasters, service operators and content providers are preparing to assimilate the infrastructure and content behind the screens to deliver this 3D movie-theater experience at home to the viewers. Working over a similar project, Ericsson is providing ESPN 3D, the industry's first 3D sports television network, with a complete standards based video processing solution, featuring encoders and receivers tuned for ESPN 3D broadcasts, as well as for high quality HD. The complete end-to-end solution supports the highest picture quality from venue to viewer.

CASBAA adds 4 new corporate members

fter welcoming four new members to the family in the month of February, Cable and Satellite Broadcasting Association of Asia (CASBAA) has recently announced the joining of 4 other Corporate members to the group for this year. These members are Asia Media Solutions/World Media Solutions (AMS/WMS), APT Group, Q.net and Travel Channel International. AMS/WMS and APT Group belong to Hong Kong. The first one deals facilitating users with high end sports and lifestyle digital content, while the latter one focuses on satellite services.

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April 30, 2010

Prodapt acquires US company PCT

rodapt, a telecom software services company based in Chennai has completed the acquisition of Pacific Crest Technology (PCT), based in Oregon (USA). With this acquisition, Prodapt; a part of the Jhaver Group of Companies; further enhances its offerings and establishes itself as a leading software services provider to the telecommunications industry. PCT has revenues around US$ 17.2 Million (approx Rs 80cr). Prodapt has acquired a 100% stake in PCT in an all cash deal. The acquisition expands Prodapt's base in the North American market and the company will be consolidating its US operations under PCT.

Indian entrepreneurs attend Obama's Entrepreneurship Summit India Post News Service

dards of Muslims across the world by tapping the global opportuniNEW YORK: Six Indian entre- ties through creating more jobs. Bihar, India based Irfan Alam, a preneurs are attending the two35-year old IIM Ahmedabad graduate, is known for his work with rickshaw-pullers. He has designed a "smart" rickshaw with shelves that can stock mineral water, soft drinks, newspapers and other "small items of big necessity" that the pullers can sell to their customers, adding to their income. Irfan Alam strikes a pose with cycle rickshaw owners Besides, Alam has day Presidential Summit on Entre- persuaded various companies to preneurship April 26-27 in Wash- display advertisements on the rickington DC, being hosted by Presi- shaws. Half the revenue from the ads goes to the puller and the rest dent Barack Obama. The summit titled 'A New Be- to the Samman Foundation, which ginning: The Presidential Summit Irfan founded in Patna in 2007. Ramachandra Kavil is a profeson Entrepreneurship' aims to deepen the ties between business sor at the Indian School of Busileaders, foundations and social ness, Hyderabad, specializing in entrepreneurs in the US and Mus- the connections between family businesses and entrepreneurship. Shaffi Mather, a social entrepreneur, is the founder of 'Ambulance Access for All / Dial 1298 for Ambulance' Service and cofounder of Education Access for All in India. Mather's Emergency Medical Service in Mumbai is the first truly world class self sustainable and

Shaffi Mather

lim communities around the world. The six Indians who have been invited for the summit are Irfan Alam, Shahnaz Husain, Ramachandra Kavil, Shaffi Mather, Shaheen Mistri and Sirajuddin Qureshi. The nearly 250 delegates from more than 50 countries were selected considering their innovative ideas and ability to promote entrepreneurship, commitment to community service amongst other parameters. Last year, during his speech to the Muslim world in Cairo, President Obama had highlighted the need for improving the life stan-

Ramachandra Kavil

universally accessible Ambulance Service in the world. US-born Shaheen Mistri is founder of Akanksha Foundation and Teach for India, nonprofits

dedicated to educating less privileged children in India. Sirajuddin Qureshi is Managing Director of Hind Group of Companies, which mainly engages in exporting meat to over 45 countries. He established the most modern Halal meat process plant at Aligarh in 1989. He played key role in the construction of India Islamic Cultural Centre, an icon of modern day Muslims. He is also the President of Noble Education Foundation, engaged in encouraging and uplifting of Muslim youth for last several years. Shahnaz Husain, internationally acclaimed for her unique brand of herbal beauty care, is a pioneer, innovator and one of India's leading entrepreneurs.

Shaheen Mistri

She broke new ground by introducing the totally new concept of Ayurvedic beauty care and then made it relevant worldwide. President Obama and other high ranking US government officials are participating in the summit, along with outstanding world leaders, entrepreneurs and stakeholders, who have invested in advancing entrepreneurship around the world. Says Shahnaz, "I greatly appreciate the world icon Barack Obama's initiative to build partnerships, create business opportunities and establish goodwill at the summit and be part of history in the making. Of course, it will be a great honor for me to represent India at the summit." Shahnaz Husain's foray into the international market is a mind boggling success story. The Harvard

Business School was so impressed with her business and

Sirajuddin Qureshi

marketing strategies that they have invited her to lecture on "How to create an international brand without commercial advertising and publicity" on April 15, 2010. She received the Leonardo da Vinci Diamond Award from the International Biographic Centre at Washington DC, World Medal of Freedom at the Annual Medal of Freedom at the Annual World Forum at Washington DC, USA and "World's Greatest Entrepreneur" award from Success magazine, the prestigious Business magazine, and thus becoming the first Indian woman to receive the award in 105 years. Looking forward to the Presidential Summit on Entrepreneurs, Shahnaz says, "It not only recognizes my efforts and achievements, but also reflects the grow-

Shahnaz Husain

ing popularity of Ayurveda internationally." For the people of America, Shahnaz will be carrying the gift of India's 3000 BC ancient Ayurvedic civilization in a jar.

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Ajay Banga named CEO of MasterCard India Post News Service

NEW YORK: Ajay Banga has been named as President and Chief Executive Officer of MasterCard Incorporated by the company's Board of Directors earlier this month. Banga, who is currently MasterCard's president and chief operating officer, will assume his new duties effective July 1. Banga, 50, will succeed Robert W. Selander, who has been MasterCard's chief executive officer since March 1997. Following the transition, Selander, 59, will serve as the company's executive vice chairman and continue to serve as a member of the

as his deep background in financial services encompassing many geographies, makes him the ideal CEO to successfully drive MasterCard's future growth." "Bob is a tremendous professional and I consider myself fortunate to have worked closely with him over the past several months," said Banga, who joined MasterCard on August 31, 2009. "I am excited to lead MasterCard at a time when the global opportunity for electronic payments has never been stronger." "Since joining MasterCard in late August 2009, Ajay has demonstrated extraordinary leadership and insight, and I know he is the ideal candidate to lead MasterCard moving

Banga, 50, will succeed Robert W. Selander, who has been MasterCard's chief executive officer since March 1997. Following the transition, Selander, 59, will serve as the company's executive vice chairman and continue to serve as a member of the company's Board of Directors through the date of his retirement on December 31, 2010 company's Board of Directors through the date of his retirement on December 31, 2010. Under Selander's leadership, MasterCard evolved from a 40-year-old membership association to a NYSE-listed public company on May 25, 2006. In 2009, Barron's cited Selander's management as a critical reason behind its decision to rank MasterCard first in the Barron's 500 - a ranking which assesses operating performance among the 500 largest public companies in the U.S. and Canada. The company was also ranked number 10 in BusinessWeek's Top 50 Companies in 2009. "Bob is a true visionary - responsible for the transformation of MasterCard into one of the world's leading companies, and instrumental in shaping today's payments industry," said Richard Haythornthwaite, chairman, MasterCard Board of Directors. "We are fortunate to announce the transition to a leader with Ajay's expertise and experience. His industry knowledge, as well

forward," said Selander. "As a company doing business in 210 countries and territories, MasterCard and its customers will benefit from Ajay's unique global perspective." Prior to joining MasterCard, Banga spent 13 years at Citigroup from 1996, and held a variety of senior management roles in the United States and Europe, Middle East, Africa regions before becoming chairman and chief executive officer of Citi's international global consumer group in 2005. He was also responsible for Citi's brand and marketing work across the entire company. Most recently, he was chief executive officer of Citi Asia Pacific, responsible for all of the company's business lines in the region, including institutional banking, alternative investments, wealth management, consumer banking and credit cards. He was also a member of Citi's senior leadership and executive committees. Beginning his business career with Nestle in 1981, Banga spent the next 13

Ajay Banga with Selander

years in a variety of assignments spanning sales, marketing, and general management. He later joined Pepsico and was instrumental in the launch of its international fast food franchises in India as the economy liberalized. Banga serves on the board of Kraft Foods Inc. In addition, he is on the board of trustees of the Asia Society, is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations, The Financial Services Roundtable and The Economic Club of New York, and is a fellow of the Foreign Policy Association.

Banga was vice chairman of the board of trustees of the New York Hall of Science and a board member of the National Urban League. He was formerly a business sponsor of Citi's African heritage network - NYC. Banga has a keen interest in social development issues, and over the period from 2005 to mid-2009, he spearheaded Citi's strategy in the microfinance sector across the world. Banga graduated with a B.A. in Economics Honors from Delhi University and is an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad.

UPPCL, Bajaj Hindustan sign MoU for power project in UP LUCKNOW: Uttar Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (UPPCL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Bajaj Hindustan Limited to set up a 1,980-MW thermal power project in Lalitpur district of Bundelkhand region. The MoU was signed between UPPCL Chairman and Managing Director Navneet Sehgal and Bajaj Joint Managing Director Kushagra Bajaj in the presence of Energy Minister Ramveer Upadhyaya and Chief Secretary Atul Gupta. The proposed power project would be set up on 1,500 acres of land at Mirchawar village, some 60 km from the Rajghat dam in Lalitpur. Uttar Pradesh will get 90 per cent of the electricity gener-

ated by the plant. "UP will start getting power generated by this plant from the year 2014," Sehgal told reporters. He said that the project was a part of the government's endeavor to increase power generation in the state. "No new project was set up in the state since long, resulting in a power crisis. However, in the last three years, several schemes were launched and projects to augment power generation by 10,000 MW have been sanctioned," he said. He said that the state Cabinet had earlier decided to increase power generation in the state up to 25,000 MW. "While some projects are already underway, we have identified a number of places in the state

where new power projects would be set up in the next few years," the UPPCL Chairman said. .

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The response has been encouraging, as a number of mills have submitted proposals. The Cabinet has approved a proposal allowing Bajaj to set up plants of 90 MW each at its five sugar mills in the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Sehgal said that a 1,320-MW power project was being set up at

Fatehpur, which will start supplying electricity by 2015. In addition, "a 660-MW unit is being installed at Anpara C extension. Both these projects are being executed by Lanco," he said. He said that in its energy policy announced last year, the government had decided to allow sugar mills to set up coal-based projects at their units. "The response has been encouraging, as a number of mills have submitted proposals. The Cabinet has approved a proposal allowing Bajaj to set up plants of 90 MW each at its five sugar mills in the state," Sehgal said. He said the state would start getting power from these units from 2011. In addition, two major power

projects are coming up at Bara and Karchana, while another 1,320MW unit is being set up at Etah. A Request for Quotation for a project at Jawaharpur, which will be set up on Case 2 bidding, is ready and will be released by the month end, he said. Sehgal said that environment clearance for a 1,980-MW project at Sonbhadra was awaited. "There are number of other projects, including Obra, Harduaganj, Meja (in collaboration with NTPC), Sandila and Chola in Bulandshahr, in the pipeline," he said. He said that at present, the total installed capacity of power projects in the state was 4,000 MW, against which around 2,500 MW was being generated. -PTI

April 30, 2010

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Reservations begin for Nissan electric vehicle India Post News Service

vehicle will be $25,280. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2011 all-electric, zero-emission Nissan Leaf is $32,780. Additionally, there is an array of state and local incentives that may further defray the costs, and increase the benefits, for owning and charging a Nissan Leaf. For example, a $5,000 statewide tax rebate is offered in California; a $5,000 tax credit in Georgia; a $1,500 tax credit in Oregon; and carpool-lane access in some states, including California. The lease price for the Nissan Leaf begins at $349 per month.

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FRANKLIN, Tenn: In response to strong consumer demand, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) began taking reservations for the Nissan LEAF zero-emission, all-electric vehicle from April 20. The reservation process is a first step in securing a place on the list to purchase or lease a Nissan Leaf. The Nissan LEAF begins rolling out to select markets in December, and will be widely available in 2011. In the United States, more than 115,000 people have formalized their interest in driving a Nissan LEAF by signing up for more information on NissanUSA.com. These registrants will be given priority in the reservation process. Consumers must be registered on NissanUSA.com by the end of today in order to be eligible for the early reservation process. Reservations will open to the general public on May 15. "Early interest in the Nissan Leaf has been highly Nissan will begin selling the Leaf electric car in the encouraging," said Brian United States late this year. Carolin, senior vice president, sales & marketing, In North America, Nissan's operations NNA. "People from across the country have raised their hands to be among the first to include automotive design, engineering, drive home a Nissan Leaf. Consumers are consumer and corporate financing, sales pledging broad support for the first afford- and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the able electric vehicle for the mass market." Also on April 20 a new website environment under the Nissan Green ProNissanUSA.com was launched to support gram 2010, whose key priorities are reducthe launch of the Nissan Leaf. The website ing CO2 emissions, cutting other emissions will continue to serve as a resource about and increasing recycling. More information the most up-to-date information for the on the Nissan Leaf and zero emissions can Nissan Leaf, including upcoming special be found at www.nissanusa.com. MSRP excludes applicable tax, title and events. Including the $7,500 federal tax credit for license fees. Dealer sets actual price. Prices which the Nissan Leaf will be fully eligible, and specs are subject to change without the consumer's after-tax net value of the notice.

Nokia to launch Nokia C, Nokia X in India CHANDIGARH: Finnish mobile handset maker Nokia has said it would roll out two new phone series-- 'Nokia X' and 'Nokia C'- within this quarter in India to widen its handset portfolio. "We are going to launch two new phone series-- Nokia X and Nokia C-- within the current quarter in the country," Nokia India, Regional General Manager, Chandan Dang told reporters here. Refusing to divulge further details, he said that these series would represent mid and high end handsets with price starting from Rs 5,000 onwards. At present, the company is selling mobile phones in the country under two series-- Nokia N and Nokia E. Nokia N is made for high end customers while Nokia E is for professional people. Apart from this, the company also plans to launch new mobile handset fitted with linux based Maemo software in the country within the next two to three months. It would be a high performance mobile computer with processor. Meanwhile, the company also launched four new affordable mobile phones -Nokia 2690, Nokia 1800, Nokia 1616 and Nokia 1280 for entry level consumers.

"Our four new products not only have relevant innovation in features that address challenges around power, climate and language from a mobile context, but also serve as the first gateway to the Internet for our entry segment consumers," Dang said.

The company also plans to launch new mobile handset fitted with linux based Maemo software in the country within the next two to three months. It would be a high performance mobile computer with processor The price range of these handsets starts from Rs 1,200 to Rs 2,749, he said. "There is a huge potential of entry level mobile handsets in the country as this segment contributes over 50 per cent of total handset market in the country," he said. -PTI

Realty Tidbits

Logistics parks in Bangalore, Chennai planned

Real Estate

ntegrated property development and asset Management Company Vision India Real Estate Pvt Ltd is planning to develop logistics parks in Bangalore and Chennai, with an outlay of $110 million. "Our focus areas are Bangalore, Chennai and Hyderabad. To start with, we will be building a logistics park in Bangalore (52 acres, outlay $60 million) and in Chennai (40 acres, outlay $50 million). Our target clientele would be retailers, international third party logistics providers, and industrial and automobile units," Ariel Lahmi, director said. He said the company is awaiting regulatory clearances and would start construction work after getting the green signal. "Sixty per cent of the warehouse space in both the parks have already been booked," Lahmi said. The Bangalore logistics park will come up on the Old Madras Road whereas the Chennai Park will come up near Sriperumbudur.

Hospitality Chain investing in new properties

eading hospitality chain, Country Club India Ltd (CCIL), plans to invest around Rs 100 crore this fiscal in its latest venture - Country Club Grand Fractional Ownership Club, a top company official has said. "We will invest about Rs 100 crore in four properties in our new venture (CCGFOC). With this, we will have 55 properties in India and overseas," the company CEO, Sidharth Y Reddy, said at the launch of its new venture, which will be operational during this year. Country Club will also start operations of 11 more clubs this year in tier I and II cities. With over 2.25-lakh members worldwide, the BSE-listed hospitality firm has for the first time in India launched a concept that offers members fractional ownership of holiday apartments at diverse locations across the country.

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RBI reports decline in real estate loans

he Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has revealed that credit to real estate decelerated sharply during the period mainly on account of the definitional change to the concept of "lending to real estate sector" effected in September 2009. In its 'Macroeconomic and Monetary Developments in 2009-10', the RBI said real estate loans showed a rise of just 0.9 per cent (or Rs 842 crore) as on February 26, 2010 as against a rise of 58.8 per cent (Rs 33,617 crore) in the same period of last year.

Hospitality sector coming up with 1 lakh job opportunities

ris Fernandes, who works at a Goa resort, has two equally at tractive options to choose from: a promotion as manager with perks like paid accommodation, and a new job at a coastal village which promises a six-fold pay hike. Fernandes' problem of plenty is not unique to him, as the economy turns the corner. Not only are resorts and hotels promising guests new heights of luxury, they are also pampering their young employees with incentives, perks and lifestyle benefits to prevent attrition. "I regularly face the dilemma of recruiting new staff. We try to make our young employees form a group of friends, which will make it difficult for them to leave," says Pascal Dupis, GM, The Leela, Goa. In the next three years, the country will need more than one lakh trained, employable staff in the hospitality industry, according to industry estimates. The supply, however, falls way behind. India's state-run 31 Institutes of Hotel Management and 150 private institutions produce around 12,500 graduates each year, according to Crisil research. Apart from 5-star hotels, the 3-star

and 4-star categories too compete for this pool of graduates. Around 54,000 employees would be required in the premium segment alone. "We can expect more than 1,000 hotel rooms in the next six months. Where will we get trained staff?" says Sumit Kothari, chairman, western India, Hotel and Restaurant Association. For people like Saji Joseph, who

to leave. From offering free lunches, resorts are throwing in freebies like complementary stay for the family, picnics and free entries into well-known discotheques. "We have to take care of their families and create a personal relationship that goes beyond working," says Ralphe de Souza, chairman, The De Souza Group of Hotels in Goa.

‘We want our young staff to be buddies. These offers help keep youngsters from moving, at least till they are married,’ says an HR manager for a multinational resort based in Mumbai recently moved to Alila Diwa Goa as general manager from Radissons, it couldn't get better than this. "At one point, everyone works with Taj or Oberoi for the brand name, but gets an offer at least twice a week. Such is the demand." An industry official corroborates this, by saying manpower requirement will go up from 7 million in 2002 to 15 million by 2010. In such a scenario, hotels have figured out that the best way to survive is to make it difficult for staff

Many chains also allow youngsters like bell boys to become the 'manager for the day', a scheme that gives access to a luxury room with responsibilities to run the show. Hotels also make sure they groom talent. "Our core focus has been to identify high potential employees for key positions and nurture them through individual development plans. This helps build a career path with us," says Nirbhik Goel, VP, HR, Hyatt International,

south-west Asia. Others come up with offers to make help employees bond. "We want our young staff to be buddies. These offers help keep youngsters from moving, at least till they are married," says an HR manager for a multinational resort based in Mumbai, who did not wish to be named. Salaries and promotions also come in handy. Salaries for entrylevel employees are at approximately Rs 15,000 a month, but increments could go up to Rs 1 lakh for deserving candidates. "We give double promotions. Employees know that growth is very high when they stay with our chain," says Rajesh Kumar, GM, HR of upscale resort The Lemon Tree Hotels. Manpower shortage is worse in smaller towns, remote tourist hot spots and coastal villages where training local staff is as difficult as relocating an urbane workforce. Hotels are doing their best to bridge the manpower gap, by offering longterm contracts to villagers in remote tourist spots. "The industry needs to bridge this gap with good training institutes," says Deeksha Suri, executive director - HR, The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group.

High-end housing back in business NEW DELHI: On the back of a revival in demand, real estate developers are again building super luxury apartments, say experts. Consultancy firms Jones Lang Lasalle Meghraj (JLLM) and Knight Frank India said there are about 7,000 such apartments to be

delivered within a year in Mumbai alone, where the cost is not below Rs 4.7 crore for a single unit. "After the recession got over, real estate developers are back building high-end super luxury projects because there is good

central business district of Bangalore, 400 high-end luxury apartments are going to hit the market in the current year itself. Cost here ranges between Rs 3.5 crore and Rs 20 crore per unit. Similar high-end projects are

‘Developers engage renowned architects for such products and each product is different from the other not only in the entire lay-out, but also in design’ demand for such projects. At the same time, margins are also higher in these projects," JLLM Country Head and Chairman Anuj Puri told PTI. Anand Narayanan, Knight Frank India's National Director (Residential Agency) said in the

coming up in the National Capital Region as well, but nowhere in other parts of the country as demand for such projects depend on many things, including the location of the property and its novelty. The higher cost of such prod-

ucts is justified because not a single one has a common design and lay-outs are also never identical, the consultants said. They have great locations as well- the unique selling proposition for a property of such nature, they added. "Developers engage renowned architects for such products and each product is different from the other not only in the entire layout, but also in design," Narayanan said. Stating that there is 'enough demand' for such projects, both consultancy firms said that consumers are treating such projects as a consumer product for which they are ready to pay a premium. "The demand for such projects will stay as buyers are entitled to do a lot of customization in such projects," Narayanan said. -PTI

In Brief West Valley City mulls immigration ordinance WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah: West Valley City would become the state's first city to verify whether business license applicants are US citizens or legal residents if two council members have their way. After similar measures failed at the Utah Legislature over the past three years, Councilmen Steve Vincent and Steve Buhler say they want West Valley City to lead the way. ``We can set the example,'' Vincent said. Buhler said while the federal government regulates eligibility to work in the U.S., the city shouldn't give undocumented immigrants the right to start businesses. He said the city should follow federal immigration law, even though the proposal could require more staff and higher business license fees. The potential difficulty shouldn't keep the city from doing ``the right thing,'' he said. -AP

Ariz. lawmakers: Changes eyed for just-passed bill PHOENIX: Arizona lawmakers say they're considering possible changes to a couple of provisions of immigration enforcement legislation approved and sent to Gov. Jan Brewer. Republican Rep. Russell Jones of Yuma says the changes proposed for inclusion in a separate bill would apply to possible lawsuits against state agencies and local governments that restrict inquiries about a person's immigration status. One change negotiated with Republican Sen. Russell Pearce of Mesa would allow suits only for policies, not practices. Another change would halve at least the minimum $1,000 daily fine for violations. -AP

Bodies of 3 illegal immigrants found in Ariz. TUCSON, Ariz.: US Border Patrol agents say the body of another illegal immigrant has been found along Arizona's US-Mexico border, marking the third such discovery in three days. Authorities could not immediately determine how the victims died but say dehydration was suspected. Agents following the tracks of a group of illegal immigrants came across the body of an adult man on Monday northwest of Patagonia. The Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Department recovered the body. -AP

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April 30, 2010

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Teen guilty of hate crime in NY immigrant's death RIVERHEAD, NY: A white former high school athlete has been convicted of manslaughter as a hate crime in the killing of an Ecuadorean immigrant, a case that sparked a federal probe of police investigations of bias attacks against Hispanics. Jeffrey Conroy was one of seven teenagers implicated in the November 2008 stabbing death of Marcelo Lucero in what prosecutors say was the culmination of a campaign of violence targeting Hispanics on Long Island. The teens described the activity as ``beaner-hopping'' or ``Mexican hopping.'' Conroy, 19, shook his head slightly when the verdict was announced in the packed courtroom. He was acquitted of two counts of murder, including one count as a hate crime, but was convicted of manslaughter, gang assault and conspiracy in the Lucero killing. He also was found guilty of three counts of attempted assault in an attack on Lucero's friend, as well as two other Hispanic men prior to the stabbing. ``The hunting season is over, at least for now,'' the victim's brother, Joselo Lucero, said later at a news conference with his

mother and sister at his side. The Rev. Alan Ramirez, a family spokesman and longtime advocate for Hispanics, commended the district attorney's office for obtaining the conviction. ``They have extracted a tumor, but the illness, the disease, the cancer of hatred in this community will remain, and it will be the responsibility of the political leaders to begin to extract it,'' said

he is sentenced on May 26. District Attorney Thomas Spota called the verdict fair, but defense attorney William Keahon said he would appeal. ``Unfortunately, in our system of justice, sometimes young men and women are convicted of crimes they did not commit,'' Keahon said. Pablo Colle, of Ecuador's National Department of Migration, said Ecuadorean officials weren't

He also was found guilty of three counts of attempted assault in an attack on Lucero's friend, as well as two other Hispanic men prior to the stabbing Ramirez, who has blamed an atmosphere of intolerance by elected officials for fomenting anti-Hispanic sentiment. Four other defendants have pleaded guilty to hate crime-related charges, and two others are awaiting trial. Conroy was the only one charged with murder and manslaughter; prosecutors said he was the one who inflicted the fatal wound in a midnight fight near the Patchogue train station. He faces eight to 25 years in prison when

satisfied with the verdict. ``We did expect to have a charge for murder,'' he said. The killing sent shock waves far beyond Long Island's Suffolk County, where animosity over the influx of thousands of immigrants from Central and South America has been on the rise for nearly a decade. Latino Justice-PRLDEF repeatedly lobbied for a federal investigation of hate crimes on Long Island following the killing. The U.S. Department of Justice announced last fall it would inves-

tigate hate crimes and the police response to them. Spokesman Alejandro Miyar said the investigation remains ``open and ongoing.'' Suffolk police have said they're cooperating with the probe. Conroy, a three-sport athlete at Patchogue-Medford High School, told police he was responsible for the stabbing but took the witness stand to say he had taken the blame for one of his co-defendants, whom he had met earlier that night. Lucero, 37, was walking with a friend when the teenagers confronted them. Prosecutors say the teens were walking around town looking for targets, began yelling ethnic slurs and approached the two men. One of the teens punched Lucero in the face. Lucero and his friend swung their belts in self-defense and began to chase the teens. Prosecutors said that Lucero hit Conroy in the head with the belt and that the teen lost his temper, opened the folding knife and lunged at Lucero's chest. Conroy, who has been held without bail since his arrest the night of the killing, testified that co-defendant Christopher Overton told him he had stabbed Lucero. Cont’d on page 42

Arrested? Tell your immigration lawyer MYRIAM JAIDI

(Continued from last week's article) nder the ACD, the judge adjourns the case for 6 months and the case will get dismissed at the end of 6 months so long as the individual does not get re-arrested. During that 6 month period (a one-year period for family related cases or marijuana related cases, both of which may trigger other problems in the immigration context), it is advisable that the foreign national should not travel because when he or she reenters the United States, the case will appear as an open, pending matter to the border officials and may result in the person being denied admission or being placed into

proceedings. If this was the foreign national's second arrest, or other factors made the prosecutor reluctant to offer the ACD, the foreign national might be offered a plea to a viola-

falls within the category of crimes "involving moral turpitude" ("CIMT") under the immigration laws. A conviction for a CIMT can result in various consequences depending upon the context. If a

A conviction for Petit Larceny, however, has the potential to cause significant problems for the individual because Petit Larceny falls within the category of crimes ‘involving moral turpitude’ tion like Disorderly Conduct. A conviction for Disorderly Conduct should not have any negative immigration consequences. A conviction for Petit Larceny, however, has the potential to cause significant problems for the individual because Petit Larceny

person with an H-1B visa is convicted of a CIMT and goes on a trip to renew his visa stamp at a US consulate abroad, the consulate might deny the visa; or, when he returns, the border officials may not let him into the country or may let him in but place him in removal

proceedings. If a person is sponsored by a relative or by a job for permanent residence, her permanent residence application may be denied because of the conviction (and she could end up in removal proceedings). If a person already has a green card and applies for citizenship, a conviction for a CIMT could cause his application for citizenship to be denied and could land him in removal proceedings. One more very important thing to keep in mind: being convicted of a CIMT could, under certain circumstances, subject a foreign national to mandatory detention while they are in removal proceedings. Cont’d on page 43

India Post

Immigration Post

April 30, 2010

www.indiapost.com

Van companies accused of immigrant-smuggling PHOENIX: The illegal immigrants being sneaked into the country were allegedly given phony $30 tickets and receipts for a van ride. And they were warned that if the van got pulled over by police, they should show the receipt. Federal investigators raided five shuttle-van services in Tucson and Phoenix and accused them of knowingly helping to smuggle tens of thousands of illegal immigrants into the US over four years. A total of 49 van operators and alleged smugglers from Mexico and the US were arrested. The raids exposed a piece of what authorities say is a network of seemingly legitimate businesses that sneak people across the Mexican border. ``The goal of the shuttle operators is to make the aliens look like any other person who would get into a shuttle, like they were going from the airport to their

hotel or on a journey around the Southwest,'' said Matthew Allen, chief of investigations for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Arizona, the busiest illegal gateway into the United States.

The raids exposed a piece of what authorities say is a network of seemingly legitimate businesses that sneak people across the Mexican border Investigators said the shuttlevan companies served illegal immigrants who had already slipped into the country by walking dozens of miles through the desert past Border Patrol checkpoints. They climbed aboard the vans in Tuc-

son and were driven to Phoenix. Although there are no immigration checkpoints on the 115mile stretch of Interstate 10 from Tucson to Phoenix, the road is patrolled by state and local police. But once they reach Phoenix, illegal immigrants are usually home free. From there, they typically make their way to jobs all over the country. While the immigrants carried $30 tickets, in reality they generally pay smugglers around $2,500 to take them from the border to their destination in the US. When corrupt van operators are pulled over, they typically claim that they are legitimate transportation services and that it isn't their business to ask about the immigration status of their passengers. ``This case has exposed that for the lie that it is,'' said John Morton, assistant secretary of homeland security. -AP

Teen guilty of hate crime in NY immigrant's death Contâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d from page 41

He said Overton had told him earlier in the night that he had a burglary conviction in a case in which the homeowner was killed and could not afford further trouble with the police. Overton has pleaded not guilty in the Lucero case. His attorney has derided Conroy's claims as scapegoating by someone facing a long prison term.

Jurors took four days to return their verdict, including a 13-hour session. ``There's a young boy's life hanging in the balance, so we wanted to make sure that we looked at every piece of evidence until everybody felt the same way,'' juror Linda Giani said, noting that none of the jurors gave credence to Conroy's testimony. Conroy has a swastika tattoo

and a lightning bolt tattoo intended to symbolize white power, according to trial testimony. On the stand, Conroy said he allowed a friend to place the swastika tattoo on his upper thigh on a dare. Many Hispanics attacked in the days before Lucero's killing were afraid to report the crimes to police, fearing questions about their immigration statuses, prosecutors said. -AP

Immigration Post

April 30, 2010

India Post

www.indiapost.com

Arrested? Tell your immigration lawyer Cont’d from page 41

Where a person has only one conviction for a CIMT, the "petty offense exception" might apply, depending on the circumstances. That exception, which applies in the context of determining "admissibility" and found in Immigration and Nationality Act Section 212(a)(2)(A)(ii)(II), applies only where the maximum possible penalty provided for the section of the law under which the person was convicted does not exceed one year in prison, and the maximum penalty actually imposed on the person was not more than six months in prison. It is important to note that one conviction for a CIMT within 5 years of entering the US for which a sentence of one year or longer may be imposed makes an individual deportable under INA Section 237(a)(2), and no exception exists under that law. Rather, the individual would need to explore whether he or she qualifies for a waiver. A foreign national with a criminal conviction should have the charges and sentence analyzed to determine whether they have been convicted of a CIMT and, if so, whether the exception applies or whether they are eligible for a waiver. An arrest and conviction

(which includes admitting facts sufficient to establish the essential elements of a crime) for the possession of a controlled substance will have devastating effects on a person's immigration status. Although the law provides the possibility of obtaining a waiver of inadmissibility for a single offense of simple possession of less than 30 grams of marijuana, for any subsequent con-

Being arrested, admitting the elements of a crime, or being convicted present very complicated issues for foreign nationals viction of an offense involving marijuana or any offense involving any other controlled substance, there is no waiver. The foreign national with such a conviction will be inadmissible, deportable, and subject to mandatory detention. Moreover, even if the individual was not ultimately convicted, the immigration laws allow the government to find a person inadmissible if the government makes a determination that it has "reason to

believe" the person has been involved in drug trafficking. Being arrested, admitting the elements of a crime, or being convicted present very complicated issues for foreign nationals and, regardless of how someone feels about her arrest, she should be sure to contact immigration counsel as soon after the arrest as possible, and ideally, before any final action on the case, to review all the possible problems that might arise. Getting immigration counsel involved early enough can also help to ensure that if a foreign national has to take a plea, the plea might be crafted to avoid negative immigration consequences. So, if you are a foreign national with an arrest and the issue comes up during a conference call with your employer and immigration counsel, or during a meeting with a sponsoring family member and immigration counsel, let immigration counsel know that there is a personal issue you would like to discuss privately. Have the issue examined, because it could mean all the difference to the outcome of the criminal case and your immigration status!

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SEATTLE: The Washington state Supreme Court has ruled that a man's undocumented immigrant status in the U.S. should not have been introduced in a trial while the man sought damages in a negligence lawsuit against a construction contractor. In a 7-2 ruling, the state's high court reversed a state Court of Appeals decision to uphold a jury verdict against Alex Salas. The question before the court revolved around the issue of whether Salas' immigration status affects his claim for future wages, given that he is illegally in the country. The jury found the construction contractor had been negligent but did not award any monetary damages to him. ``I knew justice wasn't being

done,'' said Salas' attorney Robert B. Kornfeld. ``Here you have someone who violates (workers' safety) and they get away with it, because this guy was undocumented? That wasn't right.'' A Mexican native, Salas was working on a construction project in Seattle in 2002 when he fell from a ladder provided by HiTech Erectors. He was seriously injured and sued the contractor two years later, alleging that the ladder did not meet safety codes. According to court documents, the day of the fall was wet, and the ladder did not have a textured surface to prevent slipping. Salas suffered back, hip and ankle injures, including multiple fractures in joints. Kornfeld said Salas' medical bills went up to

$150,000 and that he faces a hip replacement. ``Eventually one day, he will be very crippled,'' Kornfeld said. Salas sought up to a $1 million in damages. But just before the lawsuit went to trial, Salas' status as an illegal immigrant was revealed during the deposition of his psychiatrist. Salas' team moved to exclude that fact from trial, pointing out that immigration was a hot-button issue that may cloud a jury's ruling. But their request was denied. Attorney Matthew Boyle, who represented Hi-Tech Erectors, said Salas had not disclosed his immigration status to him or his own lawyer. ``Up to that point in time, we both believed we worked here legally because that's what he told us,'' Boyle said. -AP

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Horoscope

44 India Post

April 30, 2010

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ARIES Mar 21-Apr 20 Take a chance and listen to advice given by some one in powerful position. There will be some progress in a property related issue and things can come to a closure soon. You will continue to deal with strong opponents and ultimately win. Some one will call from distant place and give a pleasant news. People in business will have better sales.

LEO Jul 23-Aug 22 Uncertainty and confusions could develop and you will be given limited options. You may be in touch with an expert for advice but any decision will be hard. You will spend a lot of time on writing mails and reaching out people. Some of you may travel long distance in connection with office work. Money wise it will be rewarding week.

SAGITTARIUS

April 30 to May 6

Nov 23-Dec 22 There is a threat to your reputation, so express your self in black and white very carefully and make correct choice of words to communicate. Planets will keeps hopes high about money and you are right there is a big chance to strike it rich or make big bucks this week. Risk will pay off and once again things will start moving your way in career.

Leaders from PoK invited to conference on Kashmir SRINAGAR: A Jammu and Kashmir political party has planned a conference of leaders from both sides of the Line of Control in September to discuss ways to resolve the Kashmir issue. "The heart-to-heart talks among the leaders and intellectuals from both sides of Line of Control will be organized from 18th to 25th September 2010 in New Delhi by Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party," its Chairman Bhim Singh told reporters here. He said the purpose of the meeting was to find an acceptable solution to the Kashmir issue. Asserting that Kashmir is an integral part of India, he said, "The only issue is of 32,500 sq kilometers occupied by Pakistan including the area gifted by it to China". Singh said he will be approaching Hurriyat leaders to participate in the proposed meeting. Prominent leaders who have been invited included former president of PoK Sardar Mohammad Abdul Qayyum Khan, several former J-K chief ministers and chairmen of Hurriyat Conference Mirwaiz Umar

Farooq. He hoped that the government will allow the invitees from PoK to attend the meeting. It will be the third such conference after 2005 and 2007, Singh said, adding despite the ongoing

Asserting that Kashmir is an integral part of India, he said, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The only issue is of 32,500 sq kilometers occupied by Pakistan including the area gifted by it to Chinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; stalemate between India and Pakistan, "we have not lost hope of peace process. To bridge the vacuum, such talks are vital to continue the contact between the two countries". -PTI

TAURUS Apr 21-May 20 Money wise you will do better from now but may have some concerns about health. You will make big change in food habits. You will pay lots of attention to some one who took care of you in the past. You will spend some time among politicians also. Stress at work place will come down and you will be assigned to an easier job.

VIRGO Aug 23-Sept 22 Some one close will hurt your feelings. Do not let slow progress shake your self confidence. Some of you will start trying your luck in total different field. There will be victory in ongoing legal battle very soon. You will be making big plans with family for coming summer. You will be applying for credit or some kind of loan application also.

CAPRICORN Dec 23-Jan 19 Do not fall for the false promises; it's a bait to get more out of you. If you can keep emotions under controls you have absolutely nothing else to worry about. Changes you had been waiting for will start taking place in career at fast pace. You may purchase some big ticket item for personal use. Value of your assets and stocks will appreciate.

GEMINI May 21-Jun 20 Knowledge recently gained will help you move into right direction. You will make final payment on several bills. You will visit a nice place with family to meet an old friend. A child not doing so well in the past will make remarkable recovery. Enemies and opponents will try their best to hurt you but will not succeed.

LIBRA Sept 23-Oct 22 It will take few weeks to regain self confidence. You will take few courageous actions but will be nervous and scared at the same time. You will be making plans with children and spending more money on them. Uncertainty will disappear and stress will also reduce a lot at work place.

AQUARIUS Jan 20-Feb 18 Efforts made in the past will start bearing fruits from now and on. You will be assigned to a prestigious project. You may attend a get together with other people in similar profession. Business will also pick up suddenly and new vendor will help you save lots of money. You have to let the past go and forget about things you lost, they are not coming back.

CANCER Jun 21-Jul 22 Money will come and disappear fast but will go on good reasons only. You will learn some thing new and useful that can help and open new doors in career. Chances are you will be on the move throughout the week and also accomplish a lot. Avoid any argument at home or some one close. You will need to replace electric item in the house.

SCORPIO Oct 23-Nov 22 Your talents will be recognized. Opportunity will come on a silver platter. It will be better to have the language changed and clause removed before you sign that contract. Some one from past will read the signs wrong and try to flirt with you. You have to be careful when driving or parking your vehicle.

PISCES Feb 19-Mar 20 Legal matter will come to an end and the wastage will stop. You will be getting ready for an upcoming trip. Money wise you will continue to stay very comfortable and have several chances to make extra bucks. You will have the opportunity to enjoy company of some beautiful people. Money will go on buying new cloths and expensive perfumes.

Classifieds

April 30, 2010

India Post 45

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MATRIMONIALS BRIDEGROOM WANTED

Parents looking for a groom for their beautiful daughter, American Citizen, 31years, 5'3" tall, Caste No Bar. Please send your picture and biodata to P.O.Box # 342, India Post 29274 Union City Blvd.,

Union City, CA - 94587.

Well Settled in California,

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PUNJABI SIKH PARENTS INVITE CORRESPONDENCE FROM WELL ESTABLISHED FAMILIES FOR DAUGHTER, 24 YRS, BEAUTIFUL, SLIM, 5’3", MASTERS-HUMAN GENETICS, LIVING IN INDIA. PROFESSIONALS PREFERRED. PLEASE SEND BIODATA WITH PICTURE. gundeepsingh8@gmail.com PH:562-201-1130

Punjabi Khatri parents looking for a suitable professional match for their beautiful daughter,

and well educated. Kindly respond with photo and biodata to P.O.Box # 340, India Post, 29274 Union City Blvd., Union City, CA - 94587, USA.

match for Punjabi Khatri handsome son born Nov. 1978, 5'9" educated, selfemployed. Alliance invited from beautiful educated girl. Email biodata and photograph to Dreamsunlimited1@yahoo.com

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42, youthful, handsome, PhD, professor in prestigious university, IIT undergrad, Brahmin, vegetarian, US citizen, divorcee never lived together, seeks partner below 36, Indian values, caring, PhD, MD, professionals, bio/photo details must.sunjupe@gmail.com

OR EMAIL BIO DATA WITH PHOTO AT

abowry25@yahoo.com Looking For A Suitable Match For "Hindu Punjabi" girl, 29, 5'5" working. Boy Should Be Tall, Good Looking, Well Educated, Professional And Financially Stable. Please Email At vivah4ca@gmail.com

Hindu Punjabi parents seek a suitable match for their daughter, 32, 5' 8'', Lawyer in U.S.A. Boy should be at least 6' tall, professional, and brought up in North America. Email: RKGTA@HOTMAIL.COM

or Call 416-464-7471

Nai Sikh 5.1’ 25 Girl B.M.I.T.; P.G.D.C.A., from India. M.B.A (I.T) From USA. Has Student Visa and work permit Trying for H-1B Visa Brother Dentist in India. Father & Mother in USA Seeks Suitable Immigrant boy from USA or CANADA. Contact at Email: shoti53@yahoo.com with Bio data and Photo

For Chanderika: Seeking alliance for 41 year old/5’5” Punjabi Khatri, well established professional teacher. Very brief marriage annulled. Seeking mature, responsible match from sincere professional/businessman, West Coast preferred. Email bio-data/photo at matriad41@gmail.com.

Brahmin boy, ( from welleducated family of engineers ) 27 yrs, 5'10",very attractive personality ,from top-tier MBA + B-Tech from US, born/bred in India, US citizen, worked as Sr. consultant in Big four, great sense of humor, respectful in line with Indian culture seeks attractive match willing to settle in SF bay. Caste no bar. Please contact asharmacalishaadi@gmail.com

Name Change I, Kallidaikuruchi Venkatasubramanian Muthusubramanian, (Kallidaikuruchi V. Muthusubramanian) son of Late K.S. Venkatasubramanian Iyer. residing at 22240, Varian Way, Cupertino, CA-95014 have deleted my middle name for Naturalization purposes and my name henceforth will be Kallidaikuruchi Muthusubramanian.

at Linconwood, Devon and Cove Plaza, Schaumburg. For details Contact LRM Investments Phone : 773-416-3322 Email : lrm.investments@yahoo.com

Correction of Name It is hereby informed that my name has been wrongly mentioned in the Indian passport issued to me on 02/03/ 2000 as INNAMURI KANYAKA CHAITANYA instead of INNAMURI CHAITANYA KANYAKA ( Correct Lastname, Firstname and Middle Name ) and the above correction in my name be considered for my future documentation and other legal records. Inserted by - Mrs. Chaitanya Kanyaka Innamuri , R/O 37581 chauntry comn, Fremont, CA - 94536, U.S.A.

HELP NEEDED Upscale Salon in Walnut Creek looking for experienced Threader. Please call

925-785-3694 for interview.

Classifieds

India Post

April 30, 2010

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EXPERIENCE TRAVEL HELP WANTED

RESTAURANT HELP WANTED

IN CLEVELAND Upscale Indian Cuisine (Inchin’s Bamboo Garden- Tadka) In Cleveland Ohio is looking for Professional servers Good compensation Call

(440) 734-0500 FINANCING YOU NEED MONEY? CALL US! FAST CASH- SBA LOANS HOTELS MOTELS, BARS, FRANCHISES, GAS STATION & C STORES LEASING MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT PURCHASE & REFINANCE CONSTRUCTION LOANS. LOW INTEREST RATES BAD CREDIT OK CONTACT MAHESH JANI: (845)735 -0183

Great Opportunity Come as a Part Time Payment Collection Representative to you and it take little out of your time, it pays any amount in a month plus benefits and takes only little of your time. Please send-mail to remedytexltd1@hotmail.com

NEED HELP VENUS SALON NEED EXPERIENCED THREADING LADY FULL TIME OR PART TIME IN UNION CITY. PLEASE CALL TIVIA @

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DIT, House-keeping, Laundry, only. Energetic English/Hindi speaking/Punjabi speaking, Couple wanted In Franchise Hotel Florida / Georgia .Good Salary, Benefits Live Inn Accommodation, Immediate placement.

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Classifieds

April 30, 2010

India Post 47

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Datebook

44 India Post

April 30, 2010

www.indiapost.com

NEW YORK

ILLINOIS

NEW JERSEY

WASHINGTON DC

Upcoming

Fri April 30

• Musical evening of Bollywood music "Sanj Sanjeevani"

• Bapuna Rajma Lilalaher

Venue: All Saints Catholic School, 139 West Rocks Rd, Norwalk, Connecticut Time: 7pm to 10pm Contact: 203-202-7565

Sat May 1 • Dancing STAR ka Damaka Venue: Shreenath Enterprise Inc, 220-15, 92 ave queens village, New York Time: 7pm Contact: 347-513-8526

Sun May 2

Venue: Jain Center, Bartlett, IL, Illinois Time: 8:30pm 11:30pm Contact: 630-913-6660

Sat May 1 • Art Appreciation Around the World Venue: Poplar Creek Public Library, 1405 S Park Ave, Streamwood, Illinois Time: 1pm to 4pm Contact: 630-736-3816

Sun May 2 • Rahat Fateh Ali Khan Live In Concert

• 9th Muslim Matrimonial Hosted by MillanUS.com

Venue: Pickwick Theater, 5 S. Prospect Ave, Park Ridge, Ill Time: 6:30pm Contact: 773-764-7576

Venue: Adria Hotel & Conference Center, 220-33 Northern Blvd., Bayside, New York Time: 3pm to 9pm Contact: 516-840-0396

Fri May 7

Sun May 9 • Yoga, Meditation And Spiritual Talks By Swami Mukundananda Venue: Hindu Center, 45-52 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, New York Time: 4:30pm to 9pm Contact: (917) 362 6838

Thurs May 20 • Singles Speed Dating Party Venue: Pranna Lounge, 79 Madison Avenue, Manhattan, New York Time: 8pm to 10pm Contact: 866 WE SPEED

• The Blue Mug - a comedy play in Hindi/ English Venue: North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Boulevard, Skokie, Illinois Contact: 630-964-6061

Sat May 8 • CRY Chicago Presents Club Night for What's Right Venue: Sayat Nova Restaurant, 157 E Ohio, Chicago, Ill Time: 10pm to 3am Contact: 630-881-0903

Fri April 30

Sat May 1

• Ladies Night Out Baisakhi Beats

• Kavi Sammela Hasya, Vyang & Geet Venue: Sri Mangal Mandir Auditorium, 17110 New Hampshire Ave, Silver Spring, Maryland Time: 6pm to 10:30pm Contact: 301-340-2983

Venue: AKBAR, 21 Cortlandt Street, Edison, New Jersey Time: 8pm to 1am Contact: 732-763-0118

May 2 to May 8

Sat May 1

• Yoga, Meditation & Spiritual Talks By Swami Mukundananda

• Indian Property Expo 2010

Venue: Mangal Mandir, 17110 New Hampshire Avenue, Silver Spring, MD,

Venue: Holiday Inn Edison, 3050 Woodbridge Ave, Edison, NJ Time: 10am 7pm Contact: 603-233-0081

Sun May 2 • Satsang ka Mahatva (Importance of Satsang) Venue: Knights of Columbus Hall, 116 Grand St., Iselin, New Jersey Time: 10am to 11:30am Contact: 732-207-7592

Maryland, 20905 Time: 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm Contact: Mr. Desai Phone : (301) 604-2927

Sat May 8

Fri May 7

• India Property Show Venue: New Jersey Convention and Exposition Center, 97 Sunfield Avenue, Edison, New Jersey Time: 10am to 7pm Contact: 718-472-3700

• Sanjh Sanjeevani, live in concert Venue: Jewish Community Center, 6125 Montrose Road, Rockville, Maryland Time: 8pm Contact: (202) 247-7434

Sat May 15

• Black and White

Sat May 8 • Bollywood Dance Competition 2010 "Best Of Best"

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Philosophy

April 30, 2010

India Post

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Page Sponsored by Sahanis SRI ANANDAMAYI MA

he spiritual aspirant should practice dhyana (steady meditation) in the proper posture (with the back straight) and deeply meditate on his Ishta (beloved deity). He should purge himself of all outside thoughts and consider himself pure. Once he is absorbed in genuine dhyana, worldly attractions lose all their appeal and then worldly enjoyments cannot possibly touch him. Meditation opens one's true being to the Light, to that which is Eternal. In true meditation, Reality is contacted. When the movement of your true nature sets in, then, because it is directed solely towards God, the knots of the heart will be unraveled. Then you should know that the current of your life is turned towards the Eternal. Give yourself up to the wave, and you will be absorbed by the current - having dived into the sea, you do not return any more. The Eternal Himself is the wave that floods the shore, so that you may be carried away. Those who can surrender themselves to this aim will be accepted by Him. But if your attention remains directed towards the shore, you cannot proceed - after bathing you will return to the shore. If your aim is the Supreme, the Ultimate, you will be led on by the

RAMANUJACHARYA

consideration of the Vedanta-texts may be undertaken by any one who has read those texts, even if he is not acquainted with works. But in the Vedanta-texts there are enjoined meditations on the Udgîtha and the like. Such meditations are not possible for him who is not acquainted with those works. What that sâstra aims at is to destroy completely that wrong knowledge which is the root of all pain, for man, liable to birth, old age, and death, and all the numberless other evils connected with transmigratory existence--evils that spring from the view, due to beginningless Nescience, that there is plurality of existence; and to that end the sâstra endeavors to establish the knowledge of the unity of the Self. Now to this knowledge, the knowledge of works--which is based on the assumption of plurality of existence--is not only useless but even opposed. The consideration of the Udgîtha and the like, which is supplementary to works only, finds a place in the Vedânta-texts, only because like them it is of the nature of knowledge; but it has no direct connec-

movement of your own true nature. There are waves that carry away and waves that pull back. Those who can give themselves up will be taken by Him. In the guise of the wave He holds out His hand and calls you. He alone knows to whom He will reveal Himself under which form. By what path and in what manner He attracts any particular man to Himself with great force is incomprehensible to the human intellect. The Path differs indeed for different pilgrims.

wanted it and so you have found it. That is all you need to know. Your sorrow, your pain, your agony is indeed my sorrow. This body understands everything. You may want to leave this body. But this body won't leave you for a single day - it does not and never will leave you. One, who has once been attracted to this body, even though he may make a thousand attempts, will not be able to efface or blot out the memory of this body. It will remain

fering purges man's heart from all impurity and results in a growing single mindedness in his search after Truth. When he becomes deeply conscious of his weakness and tormented by the thoughts of his undesirable impulses and distressing characteristics, when afflictions like poverty, bereavement or humiliation make him feel his life is futile, then and then only does he develop real faith and religious fervor, and becomes

Meditation opens one's true being to Light Sri Anandamayi Ma

People have various visions of gods and goddesses (in me) according to their own predilections. What I was before, I am now, and shall be hereafter. I am also whatever you or anybody may think I am……… why don't you look at it this way: the yearnings (of seekers after Truth) have brought about this body. All of you have tion with the true topic of those texts. Hence some prerequisite must be indicated which has reference to the principal topic of the sâstra.-Quite so; and this prerequisite is just the knowledge of works; for scripture declares that final release results from knowledge with works added. The Sûtra-writer himself says further on 'And there is need of all works, on account of the scriptural statement of sacrifices and the like' (Ve. Sû. III, 4, 26). And if the re-

There are waves that carry away and waves that pull back. Those who can give themselves up will be taken by Him. In the guise of the wave He holds out His hand and calls you and persist in his memory for all time. You should kindle fire by any means, either with clarified butter or sandalwood or even straw. Once alight, the fire burns on; all worries, darkness and gloom gradually disappear. The fire will burn to ash all obstacles. Just as fire burns away all dross and rubbish, so the three fold suftic to all plurality. For final release consists just in the cessation of Nescience; how then can works-to which there attach endless differences connected with caste, âsrama, object to be accomplished, means and mode of accomplishment, &c.--ever supply a means for the cessation of ignorance, which is essentially the cessation of the view that difference exists? That works, the results of which are transitory, are contrary to final release, and that such re-

anxious to surrender himself at the feet of the Supreme Being. Suffering should therefore be welcomed. Never does the soft moonlight appear more soothing than after the scorching heat of a summer day. The 114th birth anniversary of Sri Anandamayi Ma will be celebrated on April 30 only towards the rise of the desire of knowledge, in so far namely as they clear the internal organ (of knowledge), but can have no influence on the production of the fruit, i.e. knowledge itself. For the scriptural passage concerned runs as follows Brâhmanas desire to know him by the study of the Veda, by sacrifice, by gifts,' &c. (Bri. Up. IV, 4, 22). According to this passage, the desire only of knowledge springs up through works; while

Evils spring from view of plurality Ramanujacharya

quired works were not known, one could not determine which works have to be combined with knowledge and which not. Hence the knowledge of works is just the necessary prerequisite.-Not so, we reply. That which puts an end to Nescience is exclusively the knowledge of Brahman, which is pure intelligence and antagonis-

That which puts an end to Nescience is exclusively the knowledge of Brahman, which is pure intelligence and antagonistic to all plurality lease can be effected through knowledge only. As to the assertion that knowledge requires sacrifices and other works, we remark that--as follows from the essential contrariety of knowledge and works, and as further appears from an accurate consideration of the words of scripture--pious works can contribute

another text teaches that calmness, self-restraint, and so on, are the direct means for the origination of knowledge itself. Excerpted from Sri Bhashya, a commentary on the Brahma Sutras. The 993rd birth anniversary of Ramanujacharya will be celebrated on April 29

That non-dual Atman, though never stirring, is swifter than the mind. The senses cannot reach It, for It moves ever in front. Though standing still, It overtakes others who are running. Because of Atman, Vayu, the World Soul apportions the activities of all. -Isa Upanishad Om. That is full; this is full. This fullness has been projected from that fullness. When this fullness merges in that fullness, all that remains is fullness. -Brihadaranyaka Upanishad The essence of all these beings is the earth; the essence of the earth is water; the essence of water is plants; the essence of plants is a person; essence of a person is speech; the essence of speech is the Rig-Veda; essence of the Rig-Veda is the Sama-Veda; the essence of the SamaVeda is the Udgitha which is Om. -Chhandogya Upanishad Look back and see how it was with those who came before us and observe how it is with those who are now with us. A mortal ripens like corn and like corn he springs up again. -Katha Upanishad That which cannot be expressed by speech, but by which speech is expressed-That alone know as Brahman and not that which people here worship. -Kena Upanishad

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April 30, 2010

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Insights from Indo-US young scholars dialogue YOGESH JOSHI

eeping in mind that knowl- sensus on the fact that reshaping the changing nuclear doctrines edge on nuclear issues of the NPT is surely beyond realms and the postures of both India and does not sediment in time of possibility and accommodation Pakistan, especially the pessimisand opinions are not appropriated of the outlier countries can lead tic scenario it generates when it by certain sections of society, par- to the unraveling of the NPT. comes to the matter of nuclear exticipation of young scholars in the Equally important was the is- change. nuclear debate and their role in sue of nuclear terrorism. Although In other words, the flux in which providing fresh perspectives on there appeared to be a consensus the nuclear strategy of India finds the issue is crucial. Such an op- that terrorists can acquire or can itself was targeted as the primary portunity was provided by the at least try to acquire nuclear source of instability in the regional Center for Strategic and Interna- weapons, the common assump- nuclear scenario. The cacophony tional Studies, Washington DC, to tions of terrorists necessarily us- which the chaotic domestic politia group of MPhil students cal situation engenders, esfrom the Center for Internapecially the rousing public tional Politics, Organization opinions in the aftermath of and Disarmament, School terrorist attacks in India, was of International Studies, also situated among the Jawaharlal Nehru Univermany sources of instability. sity, New Delhi. As far as the new disarUnder the Project on mament momentum was Nuclear Issues run by CSIS, concerned, concerns were an Indo-US Young Scholars raised regarding the misDialogue was organized in match between rhetoric and Washington, DC on 6 and 7 action of the leading players. April 2010. In the process, The pessimistic opinions issues of great consewere however diluted by the quence for nuclear proliferarelease of the Nuclear Postion and disarmament came Prime Minister Manmohan Singh with U.S. President ture Review and the signing Barack Obama during the Nuclear Security up for intense discussion. of the new START agreeSummit in Washington The panel discussions inment. cluded issues such as the impend- ing Weapons of Mass DestrucConcerns were also raised on the ing nuclear renaissance and its im- tion was questioned since such possibility of the new arms control pact on non-proliferation and disar- acts can erode the very legitimacy agenda being appropriated by the mament, nuclear terrorism, the cri- of any terrorist organization. powerful states to discipline othsis enveloping the NPT, the instaThe safety and security of ers, especially the so called rogue bility-stability debate in South Asia weapons in nuclear armed states states, rather than availing the opand, the new disarmament momen- with internal conflicts and precari- portunity to take concerted steps tum and arms control agenda. ous domestic situations also came towards disarmament. However, there were certain up for intense discussion, espeThe role of India in the new seminal points which came out of cially in the context of Pakistan. wave of disarmament also came up the discussion and in fact provide Without denying the probability for intense scrutiny and questions a glimpse of the vivacity and of theft or other contingent situa- were raised regarding India's poforcefulness of the dialogue. sition in this regard. The dilution The role of India in the non-proof the India's No First Use policy There appeared to liferation regime and the conseand the rapid accumulation of fisquences of Indo-US nuclear deal sile material were considered to be be healthy consenon the NPT was the focus of the in contention with India's overall discussion. The fundamental position on disarmament. sus on the fact that point which came up in this regard all, the exercise of involvreshaping of the NPT ingOver was that the non-proliferation reyoung scholars from the two gime is not limited to the NPT. countries allowed a real flow of ideas is surely beyond Whether it is the Nuclear and opinions on matters nuclear. realms of possibility Supplier's Group or the ProliferaListening to the way others feel tion Security Initiative, NPT is only about the subject adds much to and accommodaone, though a very important eleone's own understanding of the tion of the outlier ment, of the non-proliferation resubject and vitiates obvious gime and therefore, if the Indo-US downfalls of one-sided political countries can lead deal allows India to be formally a analysis. to the unraveling part of the regime, it must be seen However, a point worth noting as a welcome step. is that such dialogues should not of the NPT However, a case against such over-emphasize on regional dybackdoor entries in to the nonnamics be it of South Asia or any proliferation regime and selective tions, cogent arguments were other region. Contextualization privileging of certain countries made against prospects of terror- helps in retaining focus; however, being detrimental to the overall ists laying their hands on a state's over-contextualization leads to the health of the NPT regime was also nuclear weapons. creation of a false picture of reforcefully presented. Intense was the discussion on gional uniqueness. Disarmament Arguments were made for a the issue of the advent of nuclear may have regional connotations recreation of the NPT or accom- weapons in the South Asian re- but it is essentially a global issue. modation of the outlier countries gion and the concomitant stabilThe writer is Research Scholar, such as India, Pakistan, and Israel. ity-instability paradox. Worth not- Jawaharlal Nehru University. There appeared to be healthy con- ing was the participants' focus on Courtesy IPCS

India Post Modi vs Tharoor

here were never any doubts that dubious deeds were behind the money-spinning IPL but since cricket-crazy people of India were getting their money's worth no one needed to look beyond one's nose. All that changed with one tweet of the cocky and arrogant IPL Commissioner Lalit Modi exposing the hands of a union minister in buying up the Kochi franchise of an IPL team for the 2011 season. Caught red-handed Union minister of state for external affairs Shashi Tharoor had to resign over allegations of misusing his office to help his friend and fiancĂŠe Sunanda Pushkar get 'sweat equity' worth Rs 70 crore from Rendezvous, the company owning Kochi franchise. In the furor that followed, it was revealed that Modi's relatives had stakes in some other franchises. So Modi had violated the classic principle of crooks - Don't throw stones if you are yourself living in a glass house! Now the entire edifice built up by Modi is threatened. While so far the rich cricket administrators and the politicians were hands in glove in the IPL affair, the Tharoor episode has brought the entire finance ministry at the throats of the IPL and cricketing body BCCI. It has brought embarrassment to the ruling Congress party, so they are using income tax raids to get even with the IPL bonanza beneficiaries. Defenders of Modi say he has created a fantastic tournament and is being treated like a criminal. He is the man behind the magnificent success of the IPL. Instead of being raided, he should be honoured for giving India its first world-class tournament. Columnist Tavleen Singh sees it as symptomatic of the vast and widening gap between private enterprise in India and the public sector. "All India's successes in the past 15 years, since economic liberalisation began, are in the private arena," she says. "Public sector companies remain bottomless pits for taxpayers' money, but Indian billionaires shine in the bazaars of the world." She thinks it is because "our politicians have remained hopelessly backward that they look at the extraordinary success of the IPL and try to destroy it." It is true that IPL is the success story of private enterprise but it is the cronyism part which is threatening to bring it down. Some good might still come out of the clash between the cricketing czars and politicians by enforcing a clean up of corruption in BCCI. Shashi Tharoor, a former senior UN diplomat and celebrated writer, came into the government with promise of rejuvenating the system from within and pioneering lateral entry for professionals who have made their mark elsewhere. He has let down his numberless fans by embracing the worst of Delhi's political culture. His tenure in the ministry could itself become a chapter in the political satire "The Great Indian Novel", he wrote as a contemporary reinterpretation of Mahabharata. The 54-year-old first time MP from Thiruvananthapuram was an unconventional politician who broke many unwritten rules of politics and raised many an eyebrow by 'tweeting' on matters -- both personal and not so personal. But he won lot of support because he seemed to be different from the run off the mill politicians who emerge into limelight after long years of apprenticeship in the party. Tharoor is not leaving politics after this setback. With more time on his hands he would be cultivating his Lok Sabha constituency where he enjoys tremendous support. His friends and admirers consider Shashi the writer and Shashi the politician as two different people. They hope that he has learnt a lesson and would emerge a better politician after this bitter experience.

April 30, 2010

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52 India Post

April 30, 2010

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