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Friday, December 26 2014 | Vol. 33, No. 52

Indo Indo American Am erican News

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December 26, 2014

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COMMUNITY

December 26, 2014

The Mantle Slides Over the Next Generation as a Conﬁdent Founder Gazes On

The management team at UIP, from left, Atif Naeem, Ryan Anderson, Himanshu Kanojia, Sunil Gandhi, Irfan Karim, Pankaj Malani, Pradeep Gupta, Praveena Danda, Lipi Banerjee, Roger Mehok, and Hetal Bhavsar.

BY JAWAHAR MALHOTRA

Pradeep Gupta and Jugal Malani pass along a symbolic torch of leadership of their company Unique Industrial Products to Pankaj Malani.

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SUGAR LAND: A long day has stretched into the evening and most of the staff is gone, but Pankaj Malani is still at work, in the large cluttered office that he has still not had a chance to get redecorated. He prefers to stand while he types at his computer by his desk, to break the flow of work, and slides it down when he sits at his chair. “This used to be my dad’s office,” he gestures around him, “and I just moved in a few weeks ago, but I have plans to remodel,” he added. His dad, Jugal Malani, sits across the desk from him and smiles. “I just moved into the building next door,” he says of the two-story structure across the parking lot from the original Unique Industrial Products building off Diary Ashford and Corporate Drive. The new building houses additional offices, the company’s exercise

and yoga center that is still being finished off and more warehouse space for the company’s expanding products lines. The older Malani’s move represents his long-cherished dream for a smooth transition of power for the firm that has grown considerably since its inception in 1997 with $400,000 in sales to $90 million in 2014. “I always planned for it around this time in my life,” said Jugal, 61, as he sat in his former office about the transfer of the reins of the company to his son. “For the last two years he was involved in the financial end of things and we discussed if the time was right and a few weeks ago he said he was ready,” Jugal explained. “There comes a time in life to let things go. Young people need to evolve their own different management style,” he added. Pankaj, now 34, was a reluctant recruit into the metal products business that Jugal and his partner

Pradeep Gupta had started, even though he had been around it all his life. A graduate of the University of Texas in Austin with a degree in advertising and marketing, he first decided to work in a startup internet company for two years and later taught at Truitt Middle School in CyFair ISD. Eight years ago, his dad suggested he try it and he joined, starting in the warehouse under the mentorship of Gupta and the National Sales Manager Hetal Bhavsar. Pankaj’s sister, Dr. Nikita Malani Shukla, MD, who is doing her residency in pediatric neurology, is also an equal partner in the business. He then worked in all the other departments, learning the ropes of the business and getting to know the company’s vendors and customers. For the past 3 years, his additional focus was the software migration which let the firm open up a webstore in the Cloud and made for more efficient sales and shipping. This experience allowed him to meet the people in the firm and build on his people skills, which, he admits, is his natural strong suite. He has spent some time in Argentina, which allowed him to improve his Spanish, which comes in handy when he has to deal with the Hispanic members of the younger, diverse demographic who work at UIP. Interestingly, the company which once used to have a predominantly Indian staff now has only 25 Indians working there out of 160. “We are really mixed here,” Pankaj said, “with people from all over.” The momentum of the shale oil fracking business is propelling UIP to move forward and grow, with offices planned for in Ft. Collins, Colorado and Pennsylvania as well as sales of other products from its Elite brand and five other subsidiary companies. The common CONTINUED ON PAGE

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December 26, 2014

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COMMUNITY

December 26, 2014

Peace Vigil for Peshawar Brings Strong Turnout and Restored Hope BY VANSHIKA VIPIN

HOUSTON: It was one of the most gratifying moment when the diverse community of Houston got together as one and took part in a candlelight vigil honoring the victims of the Peshawar attack at the intersection of Post Oak and Westheimer on Wednesday, December 17. The attack, carried out by the Pakistani Taliban group “Tehrik-e-Taliban,” killed 141 people of the Army Public School, 132 of these victims were children. Samia Adil, radio host at HumTum radio and a popular DJ, initiated the event, and made it very clear in preparation for the event that it does not have any association to any political or religious institution.” Be there as humans,” Adil said. “Be there to show your respect, mourn the loss of 132 children and stand with everyone in solidarity, not to glorify yourself or organization. There will be no speeches. In spite of the cold weather, people came out to show their support, starting at 7:30 pm which went all the way till 10:00 pm. Vigil attendees crowded all four corners of the busy intersection, wearing black clothing and holding candles and signs for those who drove by. The participants included all ages and the majority were of South Asian decent. One such attendee, Bushra Bangash, said that the incident made her lose faith in humanity while the vigil gave her hope in the future.“Seeing a great number of people there to pay their respects to the martyrs really got my hopes up again for a better Pakistan,” Bangash said. “I really do believe that this incident has awaken our nation and united it towards a common goal.” In an exclusive conversation with IAN, Afzaal Mahmood, Consul General of Pakistan, said, “My heart goes out to all the victims and their loved ones. We are all here to express our unity, our support to the victims of terrorism. I am thankful to everyone present at the vigil for their support.” Everyone lauded Samia’s efforts who coordinated the event. She was overwhelmed with the response she received. She said, “ I would like to thank Indo-American News and the Indian community for their support. We got together as humans; this is not about any religion, but about humanity. We, even as Muslims want to end these atrocities by Taliban and we hope that the world will understand and see our perspective as well.” IAN had the opportunity to speak with Basit Kamal, an electrical engineer in Houston who studied at the same Army Public School

Vigil attendees at the intersection of Post Oak and Westheimer, outside Starbucks on Wednesday, December 17. Photos: Zafar Tahir and Vanshika Vipin

From left: Afzaal Mahmood, Consul General of Pakistan, Zafar Tahir, Samia Adil, and Imran Adil.

was burnt alive during this attack. We have no words for such inhuman acts. I am very sad, and pray for world peace.” (Article contribution: Sarah Taqvi)

in Peshawar. He said, “It is heartbreaking to hear about this and for me personally it is very disturbing to see pictures of the same classrooms and auditorium where my classes were held, but now they are all filled with blood. One of my professors

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INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

December 26, 2014

COMMUNITY

Indians Celebrate 7th Hamara Desi Christmas

STAFFORD: Houston’s one and only Indian Christmas celebration was hosted last saturday, December 20, at the Stafford Civic Center. As always the auditorium was packed to an audience of an awe inspiring program by Houston Indian Fellowship. The Houston Indian Fellowship (HIF), a group of Indians from across the metropolitan Houston area, conducts an annual Christmas Celebration to share the joy and cheer of Christmas with Indians in Houston from different walks of faith in addition to other events such as cricket championships and painting competitions in order to bring the community together for a time of fun. They also provide free health care for the needy. The admission for the event was free and it was followed by complimentary dinner for all the attendees. The dinner was catered by the acclaimed Annam Indian Cuisine. HIF, by hosting this event and providing free health care to the needy, strives to bring Christmas cheer to people from different faiths and regions of India. Texas House Representative, Rick Miller, graced the occasion as the chief guest of the event. His simple speech with the underlying message of the true meaning of Christmas deeply moved the audience. This year’s celebration included the Life Story of Jesus, a themed presentation including skits, songs and Bollywood-style dances, portraying the real meaning of Christmas. The event kicked off with a beautiful dance to the tune of the famous number Jingle bells followed by a Bollywood-style dance by students from the University of Houston. The audience was even given a small lesson on ‘Dancing Bollywood style’. The children of HIF enacted the Nativity scene, a drama with beautiful costumes, retelling the story of the birth of Jesus 2,000 years ago in a little town called Bethlehem. The stage was overflowing with vibrant colors as a variety of classical Indian dances and songs telling of God’s Love were presented. A beautiful rendition of the miracle of Jesus feeding 5000 people with 5 loaves of bread and 2 fishes was presented as a dance to the song “Paanch Roti” by Anil Kant. The highlight of the event was an awe inspiring enactment of the Crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus - the true reason for and meaning of Christmas. The audience was clinging to the edges of their seats as HIF performed these programs. The message behind this performance was to show that the real meaning of the Birth of Jesus is in the redemption of mankind on the Cross by the Love of God. Christopher Deepak wrapped up the event with a succinct Christmas message that showed the Love of God and the true joy of Christmas CONTINUED ON PAGE16

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COMMUNITY

December 26, 2014

Port of Houston Authority Approves Agreement

Sutapa Ghosh addressing the Chairman and the Commission of the Port of Houston Sutapa Ghosh, left (Founder and Festival Director of Indian Film Festival of Houston) and John Moseley (Senior Director, Trade Development at Port of Houston Authority) Photos: Krishna Giri

val of Houston, led a delegation to JNPT. With her were John Mosley from the Port of Houston, along with representatives from KBR, BP, and other organizations. The Chairman of the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust, N.N. Kumar, sent a letter to the Port of Houston in August 2014 for the Memorandum of Friendship and Trade Cooperation

Jawaharlal Nehru Port is ranked 31st among the Top 100 Ports in the World. It is India’s #1 container port and is poised to handle 10 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) by the year 2020 - 21. The year 2014 marked the 100th anniversary of the Houston Ship Channel and the 25th anniversary of the Jawaharlal Nehru

Port Trust. Currently, trade between India and the Houston-Galveston district ranked #13 in terms of Total tonnage and #3 in import TEUS (Twenty-foot equivalent units). Both sides expressed keen optimism in expanding the relationship between PHA and JNPT based on this memorandum of friendship and trade cooperation.

From left: John Moseley, (Senior Director, Trade Development at Port of Houston Authority), Ellen Goldberg, (IFFH Board member) Janiece M. Longoria (Chairman, Port of Houston), Sutapa Ghosh, (Founder and Festival Director of Indian Film Festival of Houston), Atul Badwal, (IFFH Board member), John D Kennedy (Commission, Port of Houston)

HOUSTON: The cities of Houston and Mumbai, India, share a number of common interests. Among them are world-class ports. Taking a step that will bring a closer relationship, the Port of Houston Authority (PHA) passed a proposal to sign a Memorandum of Friendship and Trade Cooperation with the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT). Sutapa Ghosh, accompanied by Ellen Goldberg and Atul Badwal, made the presentation to Chairman Janiece Longoria and

Port Commissioners at PHA’s final meeting of the year. According to the agreement, the two sides “will work together to develop and expand mutual understanding and cooperation, to share technical and professional expertise regarding port administration and development, and to promote greater economic benefits for both.” Preparation for the agreement began in April, 2013, when Ghosh, the Founder and Festival Director of the Indian Film Festi-

INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

COMMUNITY

10 December 26, 2014

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December 26, 2014

“Opening the Window for 2015” JVB Conducts Preksha Meditation Camp

BY SEEMA JAIN “The greatest mistake of a soul is non recognition of real self and can only be corrected by realization of self.” - Lord Mahavir Preksha means to perceive deeply within and Meditation involves engaging the mind fully in the perception of the subtle, internal and innate phenomenon of consciousness to control passions and purify emotion. To help the Houston Community in leading a happy, healthy and peaceful life, JVB Preksha Meditation Center under auspicious presence and motivation of Samaniji Sanmati Pragyaji and Sanmati Jayant Pragyaji conducted a one day preksha meditation camp titled “Opening the window for 2015” on Saturday, December 20. About 40 Meditators took part in this unique camp to experience the serene and blissful environment. . Both Samanijis are deep practitioners of meditation and masters in Preksha Meditation technique and philosophy. This unique camp kicked off in the morning with taking Diksha from Saminijis which means making resolution for one day to isolate oneself from outer world and perceive own self. It is not an easy task to “see yourself through yourself”. But at the end of the day all participants were completely relaxed, full of energy and looked

very positive and confident for welcoming New Year differently. This camp has created a strong hope in the participants mind towards a peaceful and productive life. The preliminary round of “Unloading the mind” session began with exchange of impromptu questions and answers between curious meditators and Saminijs to unfold various perspectives of meditation. A special Yoga, Pranayam and Stretching sessions were conducted by Pratimaji Desai and Kokilaji Bhavsar, experts in their field. All meditation sessions were conducted by Samani Jayant Pragyaji. Samini Sanmati Pragyaji’s one hour presentation on learning to live one day titled “A.W.A.R.E.N.E.S.S “ was all about bringing awareness in our overall persona (actions, words, ambitions ,reactions, emotions, nature, enemies, senses, self). In Closing, meditators shared their overall joyful and peaceful experience of the day and left with an open positive window of mind and body. We are proud of our center, it’s beautiful surroundings, a unique pyramid shape meditation hall, and a very peaceful ambiance. On the first and third Sunday of each month there are pravachans by Samaniji. Apart from the regular activities mentioned above, Samani Ji’s also offer individual or one on one counseling (confidentially) to

those who are in need of such help. In addition to the offsite camps, or fund raising events like plays etc., most of our programs are offered free of charge. To cover the costs of running the center on a day to day basis, we accept donations. As a charitable 501c corporation, the donations are tax deductible. Please take advantage of this beautiful facility by joining us in the programs we offer. Our center is open to all irrespective of their religious beliefs. For more information about our Center and the current programs visit: www. JVBHouston. org

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16 December 26, 2014 The Mantle Slides Over the Next Generation as a Conﬁdent Founder Gazes On CONTINUED FROM PAGE

thread is that the mostly metal products are sourced overseas and marketed in the US, though now the company is designing some of its own products and getting UL and FM listings for them. Pankaj foresees a lot of travel to visit vendors, reps and leased offices. While Jugal has stepped down from the leadership role, he will still be there to guide, as well as Pradeep Gupta who will continue to be active in the firm. “This is not just a symbolic change,” he insists and Pankaj welcomes the support of both his mentors. Jugal enjoys new product devel-

opment and Pankaj expects his dad’s entrepreneurial zeal to lead him into new opportunities. Jugal agrees that he may dabble in a few projects and travel a bit, but overall he expects to lead a balanced life. He has been such an integral part of many community wide events, especially India House of which he is still the President, and area wide Hindu activities that he expects to do more in these roles. Pankaj is keenly aware of his father’s prominent role in society and has no illusions about the huge footprints he has to follow. He has already been a Director of the Youth Leadership Development Program and several of their students continue to

COMMUNITY

intern at the company. He will continue his father’s emphasis developing and appreciating human talent and expects to be an integral part of the Indian community’s growth in the Houston area as well. On the other hand, the Malanis have already become worldwide figures as Pankaj’s well-publicized wedding last year in Las Vegas was all over the media and video clips went viral on YouTube. A clip even made it into a CBS special program this month. Asked about his dad’s flair for extravagant elegance, sense of fashion and being with the current styles, Pankaj, who was sporting a fashionable days-old stubble laughed, “I think I definitely got that from him too.”

Indians Celebrate 7th Hamara Desi Christmas

CONTINUED FROM PAGE

to the audience. Shirley Israel a member of the Houston Indian fellowship awarded the winners of the painting competition. Samsung tablets were given to the first prize winners in each category and the second prize winners were given a gift card. Finally everyone in the audience joined Santa and the HIF team to the dance number ‘We wish you a Merry Christmas’ in sharing Christmas joy and Cheer. The boisterous MC Sharon Samuel hosted this year’s event with elegance and grace. The audience was raving about the event. “Wow! This is the best Desi event I have been to in the Houston area! A well organized and well catered event. The programs were crisp, clear and professional’. Reuben Joseph, one of the coordinators said ‘We come together and pool our talents to come up with an enjoyable event! this gives us a wonderful experience and we have a lot of fun doing it’. Deepak Israel, a member of HIF proudly stated, “This event brings an opportunity to celebrate the Christmas Season of joy and cheer with fellow Indians who come from different walks of faith. He said to ‘Expect a greater and bigger event next year!’ Dr. Robello Samuel, integral member of HIF, said “Seeing the joy of Christmas on the faces of the audience gives me great satisfaction as that is the whole idea behind the celebration!” The sponsors for this event were Red Oaks Hospital, Annam Indian Cuisine, New York Life and other individuals. The University of Houston students along with other families and friends helped behind the scenes – all of which helped make this celebration a memorable one. Houston Indian Fellowship would also like to invite anyone interested in performing or helping at the 8th annual Hamara Desi Christmas event scheduled for the 19th of December 2015 to please contact Dr. Robello Samuel at 832-275-8810 or Deepak Israel at 832-419-0967 or via email to info@hamaradesichristmas.org. You may also visit them at www.hamaradesichristmas.org

WRITERS ... TAKE NOTICE Writers are requested to limit their words to 500. The deadline for advertising and articles is 5 pm on Tuesday of each week. Fo r more information, Call713-789-NEWS(6397)oremailusat:indoamericannews@ yahoo.com INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

COMMUNITY

December 26, 2014

Bangladesh- American Society of Greater Houston Celebrated Victory Day 2014

BY ANIK SARKAR HOUSTON: Bangladesh American Society of Greater Houston (BASGH) celebrated the 44th Victory day on Saturday, December 13, with elaborate programs to pay deep homage to the 30 lakh martyrs who laid down their lives for the country. On this day in 1971, Pakistani occupation forces surrendered after a nine-month war resulting in free, independent and sovereign Bangladesh. In one of the worst genocides in contemporary history, the Pakistan army aided by their local collaborators killed nearly three million people, mostly unarmed civilians, in the nine months following the crackdown on March 25 night. In the evening, People from different social groups thronged the National Mausoleum to pay homage to the heroes of the Liberation War. BASGH have chalked out a vibrant cultural programs, recitation, drama etc to tribute their heroes who laid down their lives and made supreme

sacrifices to establish a new countryBANGLADESH. This event was unequivocally reflected the diversity and cultural richness of Houston, as well as the USA. The program began with rendition of the national anthem of Bangladesh and USA. President of BASGH, Imtiaz Ahmed Pavel delivered his welcome speech at the beginning and inaugurated the program. The first section was an annual general meeting. After that kids aged between 6 to 13 with colorful attire were all gathered by the side of the stage in a disciplined manner and presented a wonderful program with different spirited patriotic group songs like ‘Shurjo doey tumi’, ‘Polash dhaka kokil daka’ etc. It was very encouraging to see the enthusiasm of the young budding performers who were performing with great gusto. Smita, Purnata, Puspita, Sedra, Shawon, Tithi, Maisha, Polin, Arita, Gronti, Prionti, Tinni, Sharoni, Shyon, Rafid participated in this session. The

second segment was a group song sung by senior artists. They also performed a series of patriotic songs ‘Ek nodi rokto periye’, ‘Ekti bangladesh.’ In this group Banani, Jolly, Munni, Mina, Bithi, Rowsan, Rupa, Dolon, Hafiz, Raj, Maqsud, Mohuddin participated. The third sessions was two group dances by Sedra, Smita, Tithi, Maisha, Purnaota, Anonnya, Puspita, Polin and a solo dance by Shawon. These were wonderful performances; audience enjoyed and loved these dances. These dances were choreographed by Modhumita, Shawon and Sunan. A series of solo rendition patriotic numbers were presented by Hafiz, Mohuddin, Raj, Maqsud, Banani, Rekha and Mukul. The program ended with a short drama-‘Paer Awaz Pawa Jai’ written by Syed Shamshul Haq and directed by Ali Tareque. The excellent acting with appropriate background audiovisual effects was really a wonderful experience which was presented by Bangladesh Theater Houston. Kiron and Reaz on audio-visual/ slide projection, Manna on stage decoration, Mahabub, Sohel, Monju, Arifin, Touhid and Tutul on stage management, Rob on photography, Moazzem on table and Rupa on Music. The entire event was eloquently emceed by Shebly and Jolly. Audience thoroughly enjoyed the evening with scrumptious dinner and mesmerizing music. Finally the president of BASGH thanked all volunteers, sponsors, artists, and wellwishers for coming and successful the 44th Victory day program.

Houston Area Great American Cookies Locations Raise Over $100,000

Super Cookie at the Market Street, The Woodlands

Sugar Land: Global Franchise Group (GFG), the Franchisor of

Great American Cookies, Pretzelmaker partnered with The Leukemia

years.

& Lymphoma Society (LLS) as a Special Friend for their Light The Night Campaign in the ﬁght against cancer. GFG’s “ABite for the Fight”; fundraising campaign will reach $1 million this year to support The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) efforts to ﬁnd cures and ensure access to treatments for blood cancer patients. As the owner/operator of Great American Cookies, Pretzelmaker stores in the Houston area, the VKC Refreshment raised over $70,000 for this cause in 2014 with a total of over $120,000 for the last two CONTINUED ON PAGE

INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

18 December 26, 2014 Disaster Knows No Boundary

Mangroves are classified as the most sensitive to oil spills, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s environmental sensitivity index. The fragile ecosystem, with its rare flora and fauna, is sensitive to even small accidents that can irrevocably tip the ecological balance in the area. Given this, a December 9 accident between a cargo vessel and a tanker carrying furnace oil is posing a grave threat to the Sundarbans, a Unesco-declared World Heritage Site. Unfortunately, what turned the tragedy into a catastrophe, whose impact is yet to be assessed, is that Dhaka was woefully underprepared to deal with the situation, the main being how to contain the spill. There was also a delay in the government’s reaction to the accident because of a confusion over the jurisdiction between the forest and shipping departments. It was also ill-equipped to contain and clean up the mess. In an utter disregard for the safety of the people, the local villagers were asked to mop up the oil using sponges and pans — oil thus collected could be sold back to the company that owns the sunken oil tanker. All of these are irresponsible steps in the extreme. However, the delayed response has resulted in the slick spreading from River Shela, where the accident occurred, to River Passur and other canals clogging over 350 sq kms of the mangrove forest. Though a bit late in the day the United Nations has sent in its team to assess the disaster and help with recovery, and has asked Dhaka to impose a ‘complete ban’ on commercial vessels in the mangroves. This might not be possible given that these channels are the major lifeline for oil supplies reaching many cities and towns in Bangladesh. But governments need to maintain a delicate — but necessary — balance between economic viability and environmental safety. The oil spill is a wake up call — not just for Bangladesh, but also for India, which shares the Sundarbans with it. Indian officials are on high alert and though the spill has not reached the Indian side of the Sundarbans, India can lend its expertise and help to Bangladesh in its time of need. Hindustan Times

EDITORIAL/COMMENTARY Not the First or Final Atrocity

BY PERVEZ HOODBHOY The gut-wrenching massacre in Peshawar’s Army Public School has left Pakistan aghast and sickened. All political leaders have called for unity against terrorism. But this is no watershed event that can bridge the deep divides within. In another few days this episode of 134 dead children will become one like any other. All tragedies provoke emotional exhortations. But nothing changed after Lakki Marwat when 105 spectators of a volleyball match were killed by a suicide bomber in a pickup truck. Or, when 96 Hazaras in a snooker club died in a double suicide attack. The 127 dead in the All Saints Church bombing in Peshawar, or the 90 Ahmadis killed while in prayer, are now dry statistics. In 2012, men in military uniforms stopped four buses bound from Rawalpindi to Gilgit, demanding that all 117 persons alight and show their national identification cards. Those with typical Shia names, like Abbas and Jafri, were separated. Minutes later corpses lay on the ground. If Pakistan had a collective conscience, just one single fact could have woken it up: the murder of nearly 60 polio workers — women and men who work to save children from a crippling disease — at the hands of the fanatics. Hence the horrible inevitability: from time to time, Pakistan shall continue to witness more such catastrophes. No security measures can ever prevent attacks on soft targets. The only possible solution is to change mindsets. For this we must grapple with three hard facts. First, let’s openly admit that the killers are not outsiders or infidels. Instead, they are fighting a war for the reason Boko Haram fights in Nigeria, IS in Iraq and Syria, Al Shabab in Kenya, etc. The men who slaughtered our children are fighting for a dream—to destroy Pakistan as a Muslim state and recreate it as an Islamic state. This is why they also attack airports and shoot at PIA planes. They see these as necessary steps towards their utopia. Let’s openly admit that the killers are not outsiders or infidels.

No one should speculate about the identity of the killers. Taliban spokesman Muhammad Umar Khorasani released pictures of the eight ‘martyrs’, justifying the killing of minors with reference to Hadith (a horrific perversion, of course). Dizzied by religious passions, the men roamed the school searching for children hiding under desks and shouted “Allah-oAkbar” before opening fire. Shot in both legs, Shahrukh Khan, 16, says he survived by playing dead. Another surviving student, Aamir Ali, says that two clean-shaven gunmen told students to recite the kalima before shooting them multiple times. Second, Pakistan must scorn and punish those who either support terrorism publicly or lie to us about the identity of terrorists. Television anchors and political personalities have made their fortunes and careers by fabricating wild theories. For example, retired Gen Hamid Gul and his son Abdullah Gul have adamantly insisted multiple times on TV that suicide attackers were not circumcised and hence not Muslim. Though body parts are plentifully available for inspection these days, they have not retracted earlier claims. Those on the state’s payroll that encourage violence against the state must be dismissed. Maulana Abdul Aziz of Islamabad’s Lal Masjid — a government mosque — led an insurrection in 2007 against the Pakistani state. He flatly refuses to condemn the Peshawar massacre. Other state employees have called upon all to not pray for army soldiers killed in action. At another level is Jamaatud Dawa’s supremo, Hafiz Saeed. He blames India for the Peshawar massacre

and, ignoring ironclad evidence, misguides Pakistanis about the identity of the enemy. Among political leaders, none is more blameworthy than Imran Khan, the icon of millions of immature minds. He has never named the Taliban as terrorists even when they claimed responsibility for various atrocities. That the TTP may be involved in the Peshawar massacre is the ﬁrst exception, but this is contained only in a tweet. For a man who uses the strongest language against political opponents and has hogged TV channels for months, he has yet to condemn TTP before a national audience. Why the reticence? Third, if Pakistan is to be at peace with itself then it must seek peace with its neighbours and begin disassembling the apparatus of jihad. The bitter truth is that you reap what you sow. Today, massive militant establishments hold the Pakistani state hostage. They run their own training centres, hospitals, and disaster relief programmes. When Sartaj Aziz, adviser to the prime minister on foreign affairs, said that Pakistan was not going to target militant groups which “did not pose a threat to the state”, he accidentally spilled the beans. In fact he was merely restating Pakistan’s well-known zero-sum paradigm— we live to hurt others, not to better ourselves. While bewailing the murder of our children, let us acknowledge that Pakistan’s soil has been used time and again for inﬂicting grief and sorrow across the world. By launching Zarb-i-Azb, Gen Raheel Sharif has broken with his timid predecessor, Gen Kayani. North Waziristan should never have become the epicentre of terrorism. He has done well to meet President Ashraf Ghani in Kabul and demand the extradition of TTP’s Mullah Fazlullah, now on the Afghan side. But what of Mullah Omar? The Pakistani Taliban and the Afghan Taliban are two sides of the same coin. I wonder if President Ghani asked General Sharif to help extradite Mullah Omar for facing justice before the Afghan people. Dawn. The author teaches physics in Lahore and Islamabad.

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HOUSTON: MALAY VYAS CHICAGO: NAND KAPOOR INDIA: RAJ KANWAR, ASEEM KULKARNI ®All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof may be published without the written consent of the publisher. The deadline for advertising and articles is 4 pm on Monday of each week. Please include self-addressed, stamped envelope for return of all unsolicited material. Published at 7457 Harwin Drive, Suite 262, Houston, Texas 77036. Tel: 713-789-NEWS or 6397 Fax: 713-789-6399, email: indoamericannews@yahoo.com, website: indoamerican-news.com

INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

December 26, 2014

INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

20 December 26, 2014 • • • •

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Signiﬁcance of the Hindu Vaars Days of the Week – and Fasting

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In Indian culture, each day of the week is dedicated to a particular God or Goddess, with a special significance and many people perform daily tasks according to the added power which the relationship to the day would give. It is believed that those who fast or worship the associated deity of the day will have their desires fulfilled and will be blessed with wisdom and get immense blessings. The seven days of the week and the celestial bodies they are named after in astrology are illustrated below. Each day of the week - called vaars - should be understood to be appreciated however these may vary from different parts of India. Each day has multiple levels of importance and will be explained in subsequent articles. Monday (Moon): Somvaar, dedicated to Shiva, Parvathi and Ganesh. Tuesday (Mars): Mangalvaar, dedicated to Ganesh, Durga, Kali and Hanuman. Wednesday (Mercury): Budhvaar, dedicated to Krishna, and Buddha. Thursday (Jupiter): Veervaar, dedicated to Vishnu and Brihaspati. Friday (Venus): Shukarvaar, dedicated to Mahalakshmi, Santhoshi Ma, Annapuraneshwari and Durga. Saturday (Saturn): Shanivaar, dedicated to Shani Devta, to alleviate the bad influence of Shani. Sunday (Sun): Ethvaar, dedicated to Surya. Many Hindus fast – hold an upvass or vrat – depending on the day of the week they wish to dedicate to appeasing a particular God or Goddess associated with that day. Each day has a specialty and there is much folklore associated with fasting on that day. The benefits of fasting are many.

MANAGING EDITOR

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One can keep in good health by regular cleansing of the accumulated toxic materials in the digestive system by keeping an Upvaas. Fasting acts as an antidote by lowering the acid content in the body which helps people to retain their sanity. There are also other major health benefits to caloric restriction like reduced risks of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and immune disorders. A complete fast is good for health, and the occasional intake of warm lemon juice with honey during fasting prevents flatulence. The human body is composed of 80% liquid and 20% solid, like the Earth. Research shows that the gravitational force of the moon affects the fluid contents of the body. It can cause emotional imbalances in

the body, making some people tense, irritable and violent. Broadly speaking, the word Upvaas has two parts: Upv (close) and Vaas (sitting), signifying to sit close to God and do puja. Vrat means to a solemn vow to accept some rules of restrictive discipline in the spiritual ﬁeld, and to apply control over our sense organs. Vrat is keeping some special goal in mind, and using massive will power to make a resolution about it, as a special undertaking. Devotees refrain themselves from food and water on the day of the Vrat to please God. The fasting aspect of Vrat makes the mind strong and increases its ﬁrmness to add power to the internal consciousness and that is the reason.

Assignments Desk/News Planning Manager

KTRK-TV, the ABC Owned Television station located in Houston, TX is looking to add a member to its news management team. Candidates for Managing Editor must have a strong sense of good content and how to cover it. Need to be cool and calm under stressful situations. Should be able to navigate easily during breaking news events, moving crews frequently and strategically. Must be aggressive and smart, organized and patient. Should be able to multi-task every minute of every day. Will be managing the assignments desk and field crews while helping to oversee daily editorial flow and overall newsroom staffing. Will coordinate daily news planning and coverage at the same time constantly pushing forward on planning future and long-term events like elections, high-profile trials, and promotables. Will work closely with other news and digital managers. Must have at least 5 years experience on assignments desk in a major market. Strong internal candidate. All Interested applicants must apply online at disneycareers.com, ref job #240714BR Please upload a cover letter, resume and list of references. No Telephone Calls.

KTRK-TV the ABC Owned station located in Houston, TX has a current opening for an Assignments Desk/New Planning Manager for our fast paced, high energy newsroom. This position is responsible for overseeing the assignment desk, including stafﬁng, organizing, setting up desk systems including scanners, helicopter coverage, and equipment. Will be responsible for organizing daily news coverage and future news planning. We are seeking someone who is extremely detail oriented, impeccably organized, and not afraid to make sound decisions. Prior assignment desk experience is required with prior news management experience preferred. Must be responsive to all breaking news situations, knowing how to move staff into place quickly and which resources should be utilized. The successful candidate will be a news junkie, willing to work sources and push all assignments desk staff to do the same. Must be comfortable with logistics, moving crews frequently based on good editorial decisions. Familiarity with microwave, satellite and live streaming technologies such as Dejero a must. Strong computer skills are required. To be considered all interested applicants must apply online at disneycareers. com, ref job #240905BR. Please upload a cover letter, resume and list of references. No Telephone Calls.

KTRK-TV is an Equal Opportunity Employer Female/Minority/Veteran/Disability

INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

EDUCATION/COMMUNTIY

December 26, 2014

“How to Turn Grades Around in the Second half of the Year”

Best in Class Education Center Offers Advice to Make Sure the Year is not Lost to a Poor Start Winter break is a time to revel in holiday cheer that comes but once a year, and students take a brief, yet necessary break, from school. Festive decorations aside, holiday break is also a great time for parents to reevaluate their children’s progress in the classroom and set them up for success in the remainder of the year. If your children’s grades have been suffering during the ﬁrst half of the school year, there is still a great deal of time to help them gain the skills they need to score that “A”. Remind them this isn’t a permanent situation, and their grades can improve. Here are some tips to help get them back on track: Get them back on a regular schedule - Having back-to-school routines is important for bolstering a kid’s sense of security, stability, and selfconﬁdence. Ease them back into the school rhythm with a regular sleep schedule (no electronics!), consistent meal times, and regular homework study hours. Avoid procrastination - Kids who

get a head start with their work tend to feel more confident, which helps with future assignments. Help them work on their homework or projects before the due date; finishing assignments ahead of schedule and preparing for tests well before can also help with procrastination in the long run. Reward them for good work - For children who need extra help in particular areas, rewards are great tools to celebrate the small achievements together. Small treats serve as a great reward for a job well done, whether it be an improvement in grades or an “A” on a homework assignment. Prioritize and organize - Helping your children make a to-do lists can help them get tasks done in a productivemanner.Homeworkassignments, especially in more difficult subjects, can seem daunting; helping them see clearly what needs to be done, and how to accomplish it, instills a sense of spirit in their abilities. Keep connected with teachers and tutors - Having open lines of communication between educators and

parents is important when the academic success of a child is in question. Teachers are great resources for discovering areas of difﬁculty, and parents should always feel welcome to reach out and see what plan of action can be taken so a child has the tools needed to succeed. With a little bit of planning, reinstating rituals and positive attitude, the remainder of your child’s school year can yield exceedingly above-average results. For more information about Best in Class tutoring services for your student, or about current franchising opportunities, visit www.bestinclasseducation.com or call toll free at 1.888.683.8108. Best in Class is targeting the addition of 20 additional units in 2015. The state of Texas has been identiﬁed as a key state for growth. The current team behind Best in Class is looking for passionate and dedicated individuals to join this premier franchise family and ensure our youth will excel academically.

Houston Area Great American Cookies CONTINUED FROM PAGE

In 2014, Light The Night (LTN) teams raised $60 million for blood cancer research. Locally, the Walk raised over $1.4 million. Through LTN, anyone young and old can have maximum impact on the LLS mission to ﬁnd cures and improve the quality of life for blood cancer patients and their families. As there is no means of preventing or early screening for blood cancer, funding research is critical. The Walk is a powerful fundraising event, which brings together families and communities to honor blood cancer survivors, as well as those that lost their battle. “These funds were raised by the employees of Sugar Land based VKC Refreshment d/b/a Great American Cookies, and Pretzelmaker in the Greater Houston area, said Rajiv Grover of VKC Refreshment.” “Our employees collected small donations and sponsored various other fund raising events leading up to the inspirational and memorable 15th annual LTN walk at the NRG Stadium in Houston and at Market Street in The Woodlands, said Grover.” The VKC

Refreshment employees successfully demonstrated that even small change in the form of pennies and dollar bills can add up to make big change in the area of blood cancer research. VKC Refreshment employees also formed a team called VKC Smiles to fundraise online. This team was present at both walks, passing out cookie cake slices to participants and their families. “This is a great cause that beneﬁts the cancer research and helps support the cancer patients,” said President and CEO of VKC Group of Companies, Brij Agrawal. Despite advances in survival rates, about half of blood cancer patients do not survive, so more funding is needed to advance research and ensure access to treatments. You can help LLS achieve its goal of a world without blood cancers by joining Light The Night or supporting our Great American Cookies and Pretzelmaker stores in upcoming campaigns.” For more information, visit www. LightTheNight.org/txg and www. vkcgrp.com.

About VKC Group of Companies: VKC Group of Companies owns and operates more than 140 Subway, Great American Cookies, Pretzelmaker, TCBY, and Mooyah Burgers, Fries & Shakes and has been serving the Greater Houston Market since 1999 by providing best in class customer experience, quality products, and supporting the community. The Great American Cookies, Pretzelmaker, and TCBY stores are located inside of the various Shopping Malls in and around Houston. About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society: The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society(LLS) is the world’s largest voluntary health agency dedicated to curing blood cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin’s disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world and provides free information and support services for patients and their loved ones.

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INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

22 December 26, 2014

Christmas Recipe: Chocolate-Pecan Chess Pie

Ingredients 1/2 (14.1-oz.) package refrigerated piecrusts 1/2 cup butter campaignIcon Cheesy Recipes 2 (1-oz.) unsweetened chocolate baking squares 1 (5-oz.) can evaporated milk (2/3 cup) 2 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 cups pecan halves and pieces 2/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar 1 tablespoon light corn syrup Preparation 1. Preheat oven to 350°. Roll piecrust into a 13-inch circle on a lightly floured surface. Fit into a 9-inch

pie plate; fold edges under, and crimp. 2. Microwave butter and chocolate squares in a large microwave-safe bowl at MEDIUM (50% power) 1 1/2 minutes or until melted and smooth, stirring at 30-second intervals. Whisk in evaporated milk, eggs, and 1 tsp. vanilla. 3. Stir together granulated sugar and next 3 ingredients. Add sugar mixture to chocolate mixture, whisking until smooth. Pour mixture into prepared crust. 4. Bake pie at 350° for 40 minutes. Stir together pecans, next 2 ingredients, and remaining 1 tsp. vanilla; sprinkle over pie. Bake 10 more minutes or until set. Remove from oven to a wire rack, and cool completely (about 1 hour). -myrecipes.com

RECIPES Mama’s Punjabi Recipes

Metthe Pudde (Sweetened Flatbread)

The Punjab can be a bitter cold place during the winters and damp and cold during the rainy monsoon season, especially as most homes aren’t centrally heated. At these times, people long for foods and snacks that can warm them up in a hurry and give the extra boost of energy that lasts awhile, like hot masala chai, gur di gajak (jaggery peanut brittle), ravaddiyan (sesame sugar drops) or metthe pudde (sweetened flatbread). And, as social etiquette is vitally important in Indian society, when an unexpected visitor should drop by a cold winter day, instead of running down to the corner halwai (confectioner) to buy some garma-garam (really hot) pakoras or samosas, it is much faster and easier to make some metthe pudde, which go down well with hot chai! Metthe pudde are another comfort food made of whole wheat. They are soft and similar to pancakes except you don’t need to use any syrup as they are eaten just by themselves. Sometimes in weddings, to be native chic, you may get a desert of metthe pudde with sweet rabidri (congealed and condensed milk). If you prefer, you can make it with deep brown gur (jaggery, an uncentrifuged concentrated sugar made from cane juice), instead of sugar, for a different taste. For the health conscious, the benefits of wheat instead of refined, bleached flour are that it is low in fat, high on fiber and is linked to reduce weight gain, the risks of stroke, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers and other health problems. Jaggery, on the other hand, acts as a digestive agent by providing lots of minerals and is a substitute for bleached, refined sugar. Ingredients: • 1 cup karank da atta (whole wheat flour) • 1 cup chinni (sugar) – you can use ½ cup gur (jaggery) instead • ½ cup ghee (clarified butter) • 1 tsp saunf (fennel) • 1 cup pani (water). You can also use 1 cup of milk instead of water. • Vegetable or sunflower oil to grease the hands and tava

Directions: 1. In a bowl, pour in the sugar and slowly add the water while mixing thoroughly with a spoon. (If you prefer to use jaggery, heat the water and add the gur. Stir till the gur is melted. Let it cool down for 30 minutes, then pour into the bowl instead of the sugar). 2. Pour the karank da atta in the bowl and add the saunf. Mix thoroughly till it is a soft paste. 3. Heat the tava or skillet on medium and then coat with a little bit of oil. 4. Pour a tablespoon full of the mixture on the tava. When it turns a little brown, ﬂip it over. Wait for both sides to be browned but do not overcook

else the pudda will burn. 5. Make the pudde out of the rest of the mixture. Serve while hot with hot tea or milk. Shakuntla Malhotra is a skilled cook of Punjabi dishes made in the old-fashioned style that she learnt as a young woman in her ancestral home in Lyallpur, India before it became part of Pakistan after the Partition in 1947. People have often admired her cooking for its simplicity and taste that comes with each mouthful. Even in her mid-eighties, she continues to cook daily and agreed to share some of her delectable Punjabi recipes.

MAMA’S TIP OF THE WEEK DON’T USE BAKING POWDER WHEN MAKING PAKORAS

Pakoras are probably the most common snack eaten almost all over India, but making good tasty pakoras requires not only the right spices but also the right batter mixture in order to get just the right texture too. Pakoras must have a light crunch, but sometimes the batter is too thin and almost falls off the vegetable or it is too hard and the pakoras come out tasting too dry. In order to get the batter to be fluffy, some people add some baking soda when the mixture is being made. Although this will indeed provide a fluffy and soft feel, the batter will soak up more oil during frying and also will be too airy and have a slight after taste. It is better to experiment with the batter consistency than to use baking soda.

INDO AMERICAN NEWS • FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2014 • ONLINE EDITION: WWW.INDOAMERICAN-NEWS.COM

ENTERTAINMENT

December 26, 2014

Movie Review: PK advice - and strong lines, including a Muslim girl bravely asserting, "Itna

BY SRIJANA MITRA DAS Arriving on earth, an alien (Aamir) is immediately robbed of the only thing he's wearing, the remote via which he can go home. Knowing nothing of human ways, language, clothing or lies, the alien searches desperately for his remote, his antics bizarre enough for people to ask if he's 'pee kay' or drunk. One day, 'PK' meets Jaggu (Anushka), a TV reporter who helps him. Can they find PK's remote, now with god-man Tapasvi ji (Shukla)? And do PK and Jaggu also find love? PK is as much a philosophy as a film. It takes the 'stranded alien' theme, familiar from classics like ET, but tells the tale equally from the lonely alien's eyes - at times, evoking the beautiful story The Little Prince - as from his human narrator's. Starting with the alien's desperation, PK captures the fears and falsehoods humans weave around faith. When PK decides to pray for his remote, he's bewildered about whom to and how to pray. PK features brave scenes - money extracted at temples, coconuts offered in confusion at a church, god-men doling out tortuous

chota nahin ho sakta hamara khuda, ki use hamare school jaane pe aitraaz ho." Capturing faith whipped into hate, PK's sterling message, directed sensitively, stands out. As does Aamir Khan as the wideeyed alien bemused by human life, a paan-chomping Chaplin from outer space, liked by rustic Bhairon

Singh (Sanjay Dutt in a warming cameo). PK's simplicity contrasts with Jaggu's complicated life, heartbroken after she thinks her Pakistani boyfriend Sarfaraz (Sushant) ditched her in chocolatebox Belgium. Tapasvi warned Jaggu's father (Parikshet Sahani) that her Muslim lover would betray her - does PK prove him wrong? Anushka presents a sprightly show while Boman Irani stands out as a TV channel head. Some supporting acts and special effects could've been sharper though while at points, editor Raju Hirani should've been sterner with director Raju Hirani in trimming tighter scenes. Between gods, frauds, love and bombs, there are multiple threads here. Some distract, others impact, like PK hilariously dazed by humans hiding when they make out - except when they announce it with band-baaja on their wedding day. Its amusing insights and bold message make PK hit home. Appreciate its truths - which aren't so alien after all. -Times of India

Priyanka Chopra Signs a Deal with American Network In an exciting move that paves the way for Indian entertainment talent internationally, award-winning actress and international pop star Priyanka Chopra has signed an exclusive talent and development deal with leading US TV network ABC Television Studios. As part of the deal, the studio will develop a vehicle starring Priyanka or cast her in an existing project, targeted for fall 2015. With this move, the Bollywood actress joins the ranks of international TV sensations Kerry Washington (Scandal), Soﬁa Vergara (Modern Family) and Sandra Oh (Grey's Anatomy) during America's Golden Age. ABC's executive vice president of casting, Keli Lee, spearheaded the deal and travelled to Mumbai to personally sign Priyanka. Speaking about the collaboration, PC said, "I'm honoured to have inked this deal. The fact that they will be

developing content, speciﬁcally with me in mind, is a great opportunity for me. I've been a fan of their shows and an admirer of how the network has changed the landscape of TV through the diversity of their lead characters. This deal is another avenue for me to challenge my creativity and be at the cutting edge of entertainment. To be able to work with such an amazing team to create new concepts for American television and the world is tremendously exciting." -Times of India

Aamir Khan’s ‘PK’ Box Ofﬁce Collections Jump to Rs 95.21 cr in Opening Weekend ‘PK’ also made it to the all-time opening day grosser list with Rs 26.63 crore behind ‘Happy New Year’ (Rs 44.97 crore), ‘Dhoom 3′ (Rs 36.22 crore), ‘Chennai Express’ (Rs 33.12 crore), ‘Ek Tha Tiger’ (Rs 32.93 crore), ‘Singham Returns’ (Rs 32.09 crore) and ‘Bang Bang’ (Rs

27.54 crore). International box office collections for ‘PK’ was also impressive with $2.3 million (Rs 14.59 crore) at the end of Day 1. As of first weekend, PK’s overseas collections stood at Rs 29.9 crore. -The financial Express

Last week’s edition can be found online. Issue dated June 27,2014. inyour Small Continuing, freeSpecializing radicals are made in body as byproducts of natural processes, called Business Commercial Loans oxidative processes. In the same way that car exhaust is created when you run an engine to power the car, free radicals are formed by the oxidative processes to power your body. Although these processes are very efﬁcient, free radical formation is inevitable in small amounts—even the most efﬁcient engine will produce exhaust. There are many healthy roles for free radicals, though. For instance, nitric oxide is a free radical that is used by cells to communicate with other cells. In fact it is necessary for proper nervous system function and blood pressure control. Of course, this type of process is very tightly controlled. But nitric oxide is not what has made free radi-

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Retail in India to Become $1 Trillion in Value By 2020

NEW DELHI: Retail sector in India is expected to grow by 10 per cent to become USD 1 trillion by 2020, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) said. In a report titled ‘The Future of India: The Winning Leap’ PwC said India’s retail industry (both organised and unorganised) could see a CAGR (compounded annual growth rate) of 10 per cent over 2012-2020, growing from USD 500 million to USD 1 trillion in that time frame. However, report pointed out that 92 per cent of India’s total retail market remains unorganised, dominated by local shops owned by independent private individuals. “Though India is one of the fastest growing retail markets in the world, share of organised retail at per cent is discouraging compared to other countries (US 85 per cent, UK 80

per cent, Thailand 40 per cent, China 20 per cent and South Korea 15 per cent), PwC said. PwC said organised retail is expected to grow 24 per cent year-onyear but it will still account for less than a third of the total retail market by 2024. “We envision India boosting the share of organised retail from 8 per cent of total retail in 2012 to 30 per cent in 2024 and 50 per cent in 2034,” the report by the consultancy ﬁrm said. Domestic organised players operating in the retail segment include Future Group, Aditya Birla Group, Bharti Group. Foreign players including Walmart have been advocating for relaxations of norms for FDI in multi-brand retail. At present, FDI in multi-brand retail is capped at 51 per cent. - The Economic Times

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After Mauritius, India to Export Warships to Sri Lanka

KOLKATA: India will now export two warships to Sri Lanka after delivering a warship to Mauritius for the ﬁrst time, minister of state for defence production Rao Inderjit Singh said here on Saturday. “From Sri Lanka, we have received an order to build two off-shore patrol vehicles (OPV) and they are under construction in Goa Shipyard,” the minister said on the sidelines of the ceremonial delivery of warship CGS Barracuda to the Mauritian Coast Guard. He said the ships are entirely indigenously built and there hasn’t been any technology cooperation with any foreign partners.

“This is the first time the export barrier has been breached... This will be the first in the long line of ships that we hope to export from our country... I think the country can feel proud that the ship-building industry has come of age,” the minister said. CGS Barracuda is an OPV built by government-owned ‘mini ratna’ Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) and is priced at $58.5 million. The warship completed sea trials last month after which the official hand over process was started. The 83 crew capacity warship will be used by the Mauritian Coast Guard for anti-piracy and anti-poaching operations. Besides, it is also capable

of search and rescue missions, transportation of small detachment of troops and helicopter operations and can handle external firefighting. The warship can also be used for cargo handling. “The ship is provided with improved habitability and hosts all modern facilities (for the crew) with fully air-conditioned modular accommodation,” chairman and managing director of GRSE, Rear Admiral (retd) AK Verma, said. Kolkata-based GRSE has built 92 warships for the Indian Navy and the Coast Guard since inception including the country’s first indigenously built warship in 196 -Times of India

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26 December 26, 2014 3rd Test: India Needs to Guard against Siege Mentality BY SIDHARTH getting away scot MONGA free when umpires BRISBANE had heard him (ESPN Cricinfo): abuse Indian playInjury to Bhuers and had omitvneshwar Kumar. ted to take any acA blow on the tion. Even during helmet first ball for the Southampton acting captain Virat Test, when the leKohli. gal wrangle was on An improbable behind the scenes, target of 364 on a couple of players the final day in Adfelt England were elaide. given more sledgThe Gabbatoir. ing leeway by the The heat and huumpires, especially midity of Brisbane. during an incident A mini collapse close to stumps on on the second day four when Anmorning at the derson got stuck Gabba. into Ajinkya RahA questionable Shikhar Dhawan’s dismissal in the Adelaide Test was a poor umpiring decision, but a few calls have ane. tactic of riling up also gone India’s way © Getty Images. The acquittal for Mitchell Johnson Anderson came the were down 0-2. It was almost as to harden up?” There is a picture and paying through day India left for if exhausted by all the fight they of a tablespoon of cement next to Manchester. The next two Tests 88 runs. For the first eight Test-match have put on the field, they just felt it. lasted six days. The spirit might More seasoned and rational ana- have left them in the conference days of the tour, India fought everything was stacked against through everything. Not success- them when they saw key batsmen lysts, who have seen teams break room of the team hotel that doufully, not prettily, not by the text- getting injured on pitches they had down on their tours of Australia, bled up as courtroom. They needbook, but they showed the spirit, asked to be changed earlier. We have observed that this might just ed somebody to tell them then that the aggression, the persistence to have all done that. It’s not exactly be it for India. “For every tour- they didn’t have a case that could run Australia close for those eight an excuse, it’s just that we find it ing team, every summer, there stand the test of the law. It didn’t days. There was some good fortune easier to give up when there is an is a time, a place and a breaking matter how genuine they might involved, yes. Had it not rained external reason attached to that de- point,” Greg Baum has written. believe their testimony to be. “On Saturday, it was the Gabba in Adelaide, they wouldn’t have cision. They need someone to tell them That India were feeling hard nets, before play.” got two generous declarations. In right now that the umpires also Baum might well be right. India ruled in favour of their batsmen on Brisbane they gave a much better done by all this is clear. They shot account of themselves, especially off an email to the press, not an of- need to watch out against this vic- the final day of the Adelaide Test. with the ball, until they Mitchelled ficial complaint, yet an expression tim mentality. They might well be Kohli and M Vijay could have of indignation at the facilities. It in the right with their complaints been given out lbw long before themselves. Yet it was that half an hour be- soon emerged the Gabba ground over the practice pitches, lack of they eventually fell. They need fore the start of the fourth - which doesn’t even have an active gym, facilities, food (although India are someone to tell them that their also turned out to be the final - day which also irked India. A couple being ridiculed for it, arranging manager signed off on the menu. of the Test that somehow got the of players had to go out to pro- for some food from a takeaway They need someone to tell them better of their spirit. They had cure some vegetarian food. Most opposite the ground is not that big that it is easy to feel victimised at been requesting for fresher pitches importantly, the feeling that mar- a deal) and standard of umpiring, such times, but that is not the soin the nets, a request they felt was ginal calls tend to go against them but they cannot afford to take ref- lution. India need to put this mess necessitated by the cracks on one is now becoming a belief although uge in siege mentality. behind them - or make an official There is an antecedent from earli- complaint to ICC and get it out of of the pitches. On the fourth day, India can’t make it officially puber this year. In England, India were the way - and move on to MCG while netting before going out to lic. Suddenly the same Australian going all right until they couldn’t with their minds free. bat, Shikhar Dhawan injured himself. Virat Kohli received a blow crowd and press that were loving prove the allegations made by Over the last year India have too. India, by their own admis- this Indian team for its aggressive Ravindra Jadeja and Dhoni against shown some signs that they can put sion, just didn’t handle the situa- cricket has turned on them. One James Anderson. There was seri- a string of good Test performances newspaper has put MS Dhoni in ous, genuine indignation involved together, but they haven’t really tion well. Dhawan omitted to inform the Iron Man armour and has dubbed there. Somewhere in that incident crossed the line. They shouldn’t let management of the seriousness of him “Whine Man”. The accom- India felt let down. Let down by this victim mentality be a distracthe injury, Kohli got only five min- panying story says something to the CCTV camera not working tion and a contributing factor to utes to mentally prepare himself, the effect of: “Our pitches are too “strategically”, let down by what their staying this side of the line. and four wickets fell for 16 runs. spicy, our food not spicy enough, they felt was weak prosecution by Sidharth Monga is an assistant In a blur, the match was lost. India how about a tablespoon of cement the ICC, let down by Anderson editor at ESPNcricinfo

SPORTS

Afridi to Quit ODIs After ‘15 World Cup

KARACHI: Shahid Afridi has said that he will retire from ODIs after the 2015 World Cup. The allrounder will continue to play T20 cricket, the format in which he leads Pakistan, and wants to win the 2016 World T20 in India before quitting international cricket. Afridi had stepped in as ODI captain in the recent series against New Zealand in the UAE in place of the injured Misbah-ul-Haq. He put in a strong all-round performance, with 205 runs at a strikerate of 164 and eight wickets at an economy-rate of 4.03. Afridi told reporters in Karachi that he wanted to go out on a high rather than being asked to leave. “I want to go out of ODIs with self-respect and with my fans wanting more from me. But no one is indispensable in cricket and I am sure sooner or later someone will take my place in ODIs as well. “I have informed the Pakistan team management about my decision but not the cricket board as yet. Having taken a decision it is a big burden off my mind and I am confident I will be able to focus on giving my best in the World Cup.” Afridi, who will turn 35 during the World Cup, has played 389 ODIs since hitting the fastest century in his debut innings in October 1996 against Sri Lanka in Nairobi. The record stood for more than 17 years before New Zealand’s Corey Anderson broke it in January this year.

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